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Words 1–100 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

abackadverbHaving the wind against the forward side of the sails.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ship came up into the wind with all yards aback.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abandonnounThe trait of lacking restraint or control; reckless freedom from inhibition or worry.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She danced with abandon.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abandonedadjectiveForsaken by owner or inhabitants.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Weed-grown yard of an abandoned farmhouse.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abandonmentnounWithdrawing support or help despite allegiance or responsibility.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His abandonment of his wife and children left them penniless.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, French, Late Latin, Latin, Medieval Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abashedadjectiveFeeling or caused to feel uneasy and self-conscious.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt abashed at the extravagant praise.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abatementnounThe act of abating.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Laws enforcing noise abatement.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abbreviatedadjective(of clothing) very short.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An abbreviated swimsuit.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

ablazeadjectiveResembling flame in brilliance or color.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Maple trees ablaze in autumn.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English, Old Norse. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

ableadjective(usually followed by `to') having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We were at last able to buy a car.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French, Old Northern French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abnegationnounThe denial and rejection of a doctrine or belief.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abnegation of the Holy Trinity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Middle English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abnormaladjectiveNot normal; not typical or usual or regular or conforming to a norm.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abnormal circumstances.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abnormallyadverbIn an abnormal manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were behaving abnormally.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

aboardadverbOn first or second or third base.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their second homer with Bob Allison aboard.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abominableadjectiveUnequivocally detestable.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abominable treatment of prisoners.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

aboriginalnounAn indigenous person who was born in a particular place.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Canadian government scrapped plans to tax the grants to aboriginal college students.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abortnounThe act of terminating a project or procedure before it is completed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I wasted a year of my life working on an abort.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abortiveadjectiveFailing to accomplish an intended result.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An abortive revolt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

aboundingadjectiveExisting in abundance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abounding confidence.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

aboutadverb(of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In just about a minute.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

aboveadjectiveAppearing earlier in the same text.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flaws in the above interpretation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

aboveboardadjectiveWithout concealment or deception; honest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their business was open and aboveboard.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abrasiveadjectiveSharply disagreeable; rigorous.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An abrasive character.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abreastadjectiveBeing up to particular standard or level especially in being up to date in knowledge.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Kept abreast of the latest developments.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English, Old Norse. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abridgeverbLessen, diminish, or curtail.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The new law might abridge our freedom of expression.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abridgedadjective(used of texts) shortened by condensing or rewriting.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An abridged version.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

abroadadverbTo or in a foreign country.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had never travelled abroad.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old High German. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abruptadjectiveExceedingly sudden and unexpected.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Came to an abrupt stop.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absencenounThe state of being absent.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was surprised by the absence of any explanation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absoluteadjectiveComplete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as intensifiers.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An absolute dimwit.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absolutelyadverbCompletely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An absolutely magnificent painting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absolveverbLet off the hook.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I absolve you from this responsibility.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absolvedadjectiveFreed from any question of guilt.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Is absolved from all blame.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

absorbverbBecome imbued.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The liquids, light, and gases absorb.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absorbedadjectiveRetained without reflection.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The absorbed light intensity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absorbentadjectiveHaving power or capacity or tendency to absorb or soak up something (liquids or energy etc.).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

As absorbent as a sponge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absorptionnoun(physics) the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The absorption of photons by atoms or molecules.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abstinentadjectiveSelf-restraining; not indulging an appetite especially for food or drink.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Not totally abstinent but abstemious.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abstractadjectiveExisting only in the mind; separated from embodiment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abstract words like `truth' and `justice'.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abstruseadjectiveDifficult to penetrate; incomprehensible to one of ordinary understanding or knowledge.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The professor's lectures were so abstruse that students tended to avoid them.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absurdadjectiveInconsistent with reason or logic or common sense.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The absurd predicament of seeming to argue that virtue is highly desirable but intensely unpleasant.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absurditynounA ludicrous folly.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The crowd laughed at the absurdity of the clown's behavior.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Middle French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

absurdlyadverbIn an absurd manner or to an absurd degree.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An absurdly rich young woman.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abundancenounThe property of a more than adequate quantity or supply.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An age of abundance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abundantadjectivePresent in great quantity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An abundant supply of water.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abundantlyadverbIn an abundant manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were abundantly supplied with food.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abuseverbChange the inherent purpose or function of something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't abuse the system.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abusiveadjectiveCharacterized by physical or psychological maltreatment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Abusive punishment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, French, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

abuzzadjectiveNoisy like the sound of a bee.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The room was abuzz over the latest scandal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

academicadjectiveAssociated with academia or an academy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The academic curriculum.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin, Medieval Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

academicallyadverbIn regard to academic matters.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Academically, this is a good school.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

accedeverbTake on duties or office.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accede to the throne.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceleratedadjectiveSpeeded up, as of an academic course.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In an accelerated program in school.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

accelerationnounAn increase in rate of change.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Modern science caused an acceleration of cultural change.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accentnounDistinctive manner of oral expression.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He couldn't suppress his contemptuous accent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceptverbConsider or hold as true.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accept an argument.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceptableadjectiveWorthy of acceptance or satisfactory.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Acceptable levels of radiation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French, Old Northern French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceptancenounThe mental attitude that something is believable and should be accepted as true.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Acceptance of Newtonian mechanics was unquestioned for 200 years.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceptedadjectiveGenerally approved or compelling recognition.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Several accepted techniques for treating the condition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acceptingadjectiveTolerating without protest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The atmosphere was judged to be more supporting and accepting.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

accessnounA way of entering or leaving.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He took a wrong turn on the access to the bridge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Middle French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accessibleadjectiveCapable of being reached.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A town accessible by rail.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accessionnounThe act of attaining or gaining access to a new office or right or position (especially the throne).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Elizabeth's accession in 1558.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accessoryadjectiveAiding and abetting in a crime.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was charged with being accessory to the crime.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval Latin, Middle English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accidentnounAnything that happens suddenly or by chance without an apparent cause.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was due to an accident or fortuity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accidentaladjectiveHappening by chance or unexpectedly or unintentionally.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accidental poisoning.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accidentallyadverbWithout advance planning.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They met accidentally.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acclaimnounEnthusiastic approval.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The book met with modest acclaim.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accommodateverbTo provide enough space or meet a need.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The hall can accommodate the entire class.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

accompaniedadjectiveHaving companions or an escort.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There were lone gentlemen and gentlemen accompanied by their wives.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

accomplishedadjectiveSuccessfully completed or brought to an end.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His mission accomplished he took a vacation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accordnounConcurrence of opinion.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are in accord with your proposal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accordancenounThe act of granting rights.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The accordance to Canada of rights of access.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accordingadjective(followed by `to') as reported or stated by.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

According to historians.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accordinglyadverb(sentence connectors) because of the reason given.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Continued to have severe headaches and accordingly returned to the doctor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accountnounA formal contractual relationship established to provide for regular banking or brokerage or business services.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He asked to see the executive who handled his account.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accountingnounA convincing explanation that reveals basic causes.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was unable to give a clear accounting for his actions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accreditationnounThe act of granting credit or recognition (especially with respect to educational institution that maintains suitable standards).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A commission is responsible for the accreditation of medical schools.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Spanish. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accreditedadjectiveGiven official approval to act.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An accredited college.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Spanish. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accuracynounThe quality of being near to the true value.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was beginning to doubt the accuracy of his compass.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accurateadjectiveConforming exactly or almost exactly to fact or to a standard or performing with total accuracy.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accurate measurements.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accuratelyadverbWith few mistakes.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He works very accurately.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accusativeadjectiveServing as or indicating the object of a verb or of certain prepositions and used for certain other purposes.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accusative endings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French, Old Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accusatoryadjectiveContaining or expressing accusation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Black accusatory looks.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old French, Old Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accusingadjectiveContaining or expressing accusation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His accusing glare.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

accusinglyadverbIn an accusing manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He looked at her accusingly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

accustomedadjective(often followed by `to') in the habit of or adapted to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Accustomed to doing her own work.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English, Old English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acerbicadjectiveHarsh or corrosive in tone.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An acerbic tone piercing otherwise flowery prose.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

achievernounA person with a record of successes.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His son would never be the achiever that his father was.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Late Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

achyadjectiveCausing a dull and steady pain.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her old achy joints.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acidadjectiveHarsh or corrosive in tone.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A barrage of acid comments.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acknowledgeverbExpress recognition of the presence or existence of, or acquaintance with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is important to acknowledge the work of others in one's own writing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Middle English, Old English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acknowledgedadjectiveRecognized or made known or admitted.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His acknowledged error.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

acknowledgmentnounA statement acknowledging something or someone.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She must have seen him but she gave no sign of acknowledgment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Middle English, Old English. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acmenounThe highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The artist's gifts are at their acme.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acousticadjectiveOf or relating to the science of acoustics.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Acoustic properties of a hall.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Medieval Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acousticallyadverbWith respect to acoustics.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Acoustically ill-equipped studios.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, Latin, Medieval Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acquaintverbMake familiar or conversant with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You should acquaint yourself with your new computer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French, Vulgar Latin. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

acquaintedadjectiveHaving fair knowledge of.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were acquainted.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.

acquiesceverbTo accept something without openly opposing it.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

After hearing the explanation, they agreed to acquiesce.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

acquiescencenounAgreement with a statement or proposal to do something.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A murmur of acquiescence from the assembly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

Definitions and usage examples in the expanded bank come from WordNet 3.0, with pronunciation references from CMUdict. Records are automatically screened and source-validated, not individually human reviewed. Practice difficulty is an estimate, not a grade level or official Scripps band. Sources and coverage ↗ · WordNet license · CMUdict license

No matching words.