THE US ENGLISH PRACTICE BANK

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Words 201–300 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

affectverbHave an effect upon.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Will the new rules affect me?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

affectingadjectiveArousing affect.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The homecoming of the released hostages was an affecting scene.

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

affectionnounA positive feeling of liking.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had trouble expressing the affection he felt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

affectionateadjectiveHaving or displaying warmth or affection.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Affectionate children.

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

affectionatelyadverbWith affection.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He treats her affectionately.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

affiliationnounThe act of becoming formally connected or joined.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Welcomed the affiliation of the research center with the university.

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

affinedadjectiveClosely related.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Syllable to blessed syllable affined.

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

affinitynounA natural attraction or feeling of kinship.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An affinity for politics.

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) ↗

affirmativenounA reply of affirmation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He answered in the affirmative.

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) ↗

affixverbAttach or become attached to a stem word.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Grammatical morphemes affix to the stem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, 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) ↗

affixedadjectiveFirmly attached.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The affixed labels.

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

afflictverbCause physical pain or suffering in.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Afflict with the plague.

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) ↗

affluentadjectiveHaving an abundant supply of money or possessions of value.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An affluent banker.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

affordverbBe able to spare or give up.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I can't afford to spend two hours with this person.

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) ↗

afieldadverbOff the subject; beyond the point at issue.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Such digressions can lead us too far afield.

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) ↗

afireadjectiveLighted up by or as by fire or flame.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forests set ablaze (or afire) by lightning.

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) ↗

aflameadjectiveLighted up by or as by fire or flame.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Even the car's tires were aflame.

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) ↗

afloatadjectiveCovered with water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The main deck was afloat (or awash).

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) ↗

afootadverbOn foot; walking.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They went to the village afoot.

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) ↗

aforementionedadjectiveBeing the one previously mentioned or spoken of.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Works of all the aforementioned authors.

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) ↗

afouladjectiveEspecially of a ship's lines etc.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With its sails afoul.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

afraidadjectiveFilled with fear or apprehension.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Afraid for his life.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Frankish, 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) ↗

aftadverbAt or near or toward the stern of a ship or tail of an airplane.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stow the luggage aft.

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) ↗

afteradverbHappening at a time subsequent to a reference time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Two hours after that.

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) ↗

afterglownounThe pleasure of remembering some pleasant event.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He basked in the afterglow of his victory.

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) ↗

aftermathnounThe consequences of an event (especially a catastrophic event).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The aftermath of war.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Frankish, 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) ↗

afternoonnounThe part of the day between noon and evening.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He spent a quiet afternoon in the park.

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) ↗

afterthoughtnounAn addition that was not included in the original plan.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The garage was an afterthought.

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) ↗

afterwardadverbHappening at a time subsequent to a reference time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It didn't happen until afterward.

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) ↗

agapeadjectiveWith the mouth wide open as in wonder or awe.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We stood there agape with wonder.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Middle 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) ↗

agenounHow long something has existed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was replaced because of its age.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle 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) ↗

agednounPeople who are old collectively.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Special arrangements were available for the aged.

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

agelessadjectiveContinuing forever or indefinitely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ageless themes of love and revenge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

agencynounAn administrative unit of government.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Central Intelligence Agency.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

aggrandizementnounThe act of increasing the wealth or prestige or power or scope of something.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The aggrandizement of the king.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, 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) ↗

aggravatedadjectiveIncited, especially deliberately, to anger.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aggravated by passive resistance.

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

aggravationnounAction that makes a problem or a disease (or its symptoms) worse.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The aggravation of her condition resulted from lack of care.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

aggregateadjectiveFormed of separate units gathered into a mass or whole.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aggregate expenses include expenses of all divisions combined for the entire year.

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

aggregatedadjectiveFormed of separate units gathered into a mass or whole.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The aggregated amount of indebtedness.

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

aggressiveadjectiveHaving or showing determination and energetic pursuit of your ends.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aggressive drivers.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

agileadjectiveMoving quickly and lightly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sleek and agile as a gymnast.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

agitatedadjectivePhysically disturbed or set in motion.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The agitated mixture foamed and bubbled.

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

agleamadjectiveBright with a steady but subdued shining.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

From the plane we saw the city below agleam with lights.

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) ↗

aglitteradjectiveHaving brief brilliant points or flashes of light.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bugle beads all aglitter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

aglowadjectiveSoftly bright or radiant.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A house aglow with lights.

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) ↗

agonistnounA muscle that contracts while another relaxes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

When bending the elbow the biceps are the agonist.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

agrarianadjectiveRelating to rural matters.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An agrarian (or agricultural) society.

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

agreeverbBe in accord; be in agreement.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I can't agree with you!

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) ↗

agreeableadjectiveConforming to your own liking or feelings or nature.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An agreeable manner.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

agreedadjectiveUnited by being of the same opinion.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Agreed in their distrust of authority.

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

agreementnounThe statement (oral or written) of an exchange of promises.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had an agreement that they would not interfere in each other's business.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

agriculturaladjectiveRelating to or used in or promoting agriculture or farming.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An agricultural college.

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) ↗

agroundadjectiveStuck in a place where a ship can no longer float.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A ship aground offshore.

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) ↗

aheadadverbAt or in the front.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Staring straight ahead.

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) ↗

aidnounThe activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rescue party went to their aid.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Middle French, 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) ↗

ailingadjectiveSomewhat ill or prone to illness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My poor ailing grandmother.

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

aimnounAn anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was created with the conscious aim of answering immediate needs.

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) ↗

aimlesslyadverbWithout aim; in an aimless manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He wandered around aimlessly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

airnounA mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I need some fresh air.

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) ↗

airdropnounDelivery of supplies or equipment or personnel by dropping them by parachute from an aircraft.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Until then, front line troops will be supplied by airdrop.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airflownounThe flow of air.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She adjusted the fan so that the airflow was directed right at her.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airheadnounA flighty scatterbrained simpleton.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She's a total airhead.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airingnounA short excursion (a walk or ride) in the open air.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He took the dogs for an airing.

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

airlessadjectiveLacking fresh air.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A dusty airless attic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airplanenounAn aircraft that has a fixed wing and is powered by propellers or jets.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flight was delayed due to trouble with the airplane.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, French, 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) ↗

airsnounAffected manners intended to impress others.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't put on airs with me.

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

airspacenounThe atmosphere above a nation that is deemed to be under its jurisdiction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The plane was refused permission to enter Chinese airspace.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airtightadjectiveHaving no weak points.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An airtight defense.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

airyadjectiveCharacterized by lightness and insubstantiality; as impalpable or intangible as air.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An airy apparition.

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) ↗

akimboadjective(used of arms and legs) bent outward with the joint away from the body.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stood with arms akimbo.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

akinadjectiveSimilar in quality or character.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A feeling akin to terror.

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

alacritynounLiveliness and eagerness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He accepted with alacrity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

alarminglyadverbIn an alarming manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It grew alarmingly fast.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

albatrossnoun(figurative) something that hinders or handicaps.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was an albatross around his neck.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Andalusian Arabic, Arabic, Latin, Portuguese. 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) ↗

alchemynounThe way two individuals relate to each other.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A mysterious alchemy brought them together.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Arabic, Medieval 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) ↗

aleatoryadjectiveDependent on chance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The aleatory element in life.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

alertadjectiveEngaged in or accustomed to close observation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Caught by a couple of alert cops.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian. 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) ↗

alertingnounA state of readiness to respond.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Alerting was indicated by the desynchronization of the EEG.

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

algebraicadjectiveOf or relating to algebra.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Algebraic geometry.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval Latin.

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

algebraicallyadverbIn an algebraic manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Algebraically determined.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Hindi, 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) ↗

aliasadverbAs known or named at another time or place.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Mr. Smith, alias Mr. Lafayette.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

alienadjectiveNot contained in or deriving from the essential nature of something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An economic theory alien to the spirit of capitalism.

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) ↗

alienatedadjectiveSocially disoriented.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We live in an age of rootless alienated people.

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

alienatingadjectiveCausing hostility or loss of friendliness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her sudden alienating aloofness.

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

alienationnoun(law) the voluntary and absolute transfer of title and possession of real property from one person to another.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The power of alienation is an essential ingredient of ownership.

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) ↗

alightadjectiveLighted up by or as by fire or flame.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Candles alight on the tables.

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) ↗

alignverbPlace in a line or arrange so as to be parallel or straight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Align the car with the curb.

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) ↗

alignedadjectiveIn a straight line.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pearly teeth evenly aligned.

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

alikeadjectiveHaving the same or similar characteristics.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

All politicians are alike.

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) ↗

aliveadjectivePossessing life.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The nerve is alive.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

aliyahnoun(Judaism) immigration of Jews to Israel.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Students making aliyah.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hebrew.

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

alkalineadjectiveRelating to or containing an alkali; having a pH greater than 7.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Alkaline soils derived from chalk or limestone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic.

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

alladjectiveQuantifier; used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

All men are mortal.

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) ↗

allegationnoun(law) a formal accusation against somebody (often in a court of law).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An allegation of malpractice.

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) ↗

allegedadjectiveDeclared but not proved.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Alleged abuses of housing benefits.

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

allegroadverbIn a quick and lively tempo.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Play this section allegro.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

allergicadjectiveCharacterized by or caused by allergy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An allergic reaction.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

alliterativeadjectiveHaving the same consonant at the beginning of each stressed syllable.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Alliterative verse.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, New 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) ↗

allottedadjectiveGiven as a task.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her allotted chores.

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

allowverbMake it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This sealed door won't allow the water come into the basement.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

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.