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Words 401–500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
answerverbReact verbally.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Answer the question.

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) ↗

answerableadjectiveMorally or legally responsible to a higher authority.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Parents are answerable for their child's acts.

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) ↗

antagonismnounThe relation between opposing principles or forces or factors.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The inherent antagonism of capitalism and socialism.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

antagonistnounA muscle that relaxes while another contracts.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

When bending the elbow the triceps are the antagonist.

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) ↗

antagonizeverbProvoke the hostility of.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't antagonize your boss.

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

antecedentnounAnything that precedes something similar in time.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Phrenology was an antecedent of modern neuroscience.

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) ↗

antemortemadjectivePreceding death.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Antemortem confession.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

antennanounSensitivity similar to that of a receptor organ.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a special antenna for public relations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

anthropocentricadjectiveHuman-centered.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Our anthropocentric view of the world.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

anthropologicaladjectiveOf or concerned with the science of anthropology.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Anthropological studies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

anticadjectiveLudicrously odd.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Hamlet's assumed antic disposition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

antiknockadjectiveSuppressing or eliminating engine knock in combustion engines.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Antiknock properties.

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) ↗

antipathynounThe object of a feeling of intense aversion; something to be avoided.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Cats were his greatest antipathy.

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

antipodaladjectiveRelating to the antipodes or situated at opposite sides of the earth.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Antipodal points on a sphere.

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) ↗

antipodenounDirect opposite.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Quiet: an antipode to focused busyness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

antipodesnounAny two places or regions on diametrically opposite sides of the Earth.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The North Pole and the South Pole are antipodes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

antiqueadjectiveOut of fashion.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A suit of rather antique appearance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

antisepticadjectiveClean and honest.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Antiseptic financial practices.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

antisocialadjectiveHostile to or disruptive of normal standards of social behavior.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An antisocial deed.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

antithesisnounExact opposite.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His theory is the antithesis of mine.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

antitheticaladjectiveSharply contrasted in character or purpose.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Practices entirely antithetical to her professed beliefs.

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) ↗

anxiousadjectiveEagerly desirous.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Anxious to see the new show at the museum.

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

anxiouslyadverbWith anxiety or apprehension.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We watched anxiously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

anyadjectiveOne or some or every or all without specification.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Not any milk is left.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Scots. 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) ↗

anyhowadverbUsed to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Anyhow, he is dead now.

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

anymoreadverbAt the present or from now on; usually used with a negative.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Alice doesn't live here anymore.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Scots. 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) ↗

anywayadverbUsed to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Anyway, there is another factor to consider.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Scots. 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) ↗

anywhereadverbAt or in or to any place.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You can find this food anywhere.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, Scots. 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) ↗

apartadverbSeparated or at a distance in place or position or time.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Born two years apart.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

apatheticadjectiveMarked by a lack of interest.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An apathetic audience.

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) ↗

apologeticadjectiveOffering or expressing apology.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An apologetic note.

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

apologeticallyadverbIn an apologetic manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He spoke apologetically about his past.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

apologistnounA person who argues to defend or justify some policy or institution.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An apologist for capital punishment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

apologynounAn expression of regret at having caused trouble for someone.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He wrote a letter of apology to the hostess.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

apoplecticadjectivePertaining to or characteristic of apoplexy.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Apoplectic seizure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

apostlenounAn ardent early supporter of a cause or reform.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An apostle of revolution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

appallingadjectiveCausing consternation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Appalling conditions.

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

apparatusnoun(anatomy) a group of body parts that work together to perform a given function.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The breathing apparatus.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

apparelnounClothing in general.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She was refined in her choice of apparel.

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) ↗

apparentadjectiveClearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The effects of the drought are apparent to anyone who sees the parched fields.

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) ↗

apparentlyadverbFrom appearances alone.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Irrigation often produces bumper crops from apparently desert land.

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) ↗

apparitionnounA ghostly appearing figure.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We were unprepared for the apparition that confronted us.

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) ↗

appealnounEarnest or urgent request.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An appeal for help.

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) ↗

appealableadjectiveCapable of being appealed especially to a higher tribunal.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Decisions...appealable to the head of the agency.

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) ↗

appealingadjectiveAble to attract interest or draw favorable attention.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An appealing sense of humor.

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

appearverbBe issued or published.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Did your latest book appear yet?

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) ↗

appearancenounThe act of appearing in public view.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was Bernhardt's last appearance in America.

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) ↗

appendverbFix to; attach.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Append a charm to the necklace.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

appetitenounA feeling of craving something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An appetite for life.

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) ↗

applaudverbExpress approval of.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I applaud your efforts.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

applicableadjectiveCapable of being applied; having relevance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Gave applicable examples to support her argument.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

applicationnounThe act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A novel application of electronics to medical diagnosis.

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) ↗

appliedadjectiveConcerned with concrete problems or data rather than with fundamental principles.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Applied psychology.

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

applyverbPut into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Apply a magnetic field here.

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) ↗

appointedadjectiveSelected for a job.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The one appointed for guard duty.

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

appointmentnounThe act of putting a person into a non-elective position.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The appointment had to be approved by the whole committee.

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

appraisingadjectiveExercising or involving careful evaluations.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Looked him over with an appraising eye.

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

appreciableadjectiveEnough to be estimated or measured.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Appreciable amounts of noxious wastes are dumped into the harbor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

appreciablyadverbTo a noticeable degree.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They weather was appreciably colder.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

appreciateverbBe fully aware of; realize fully.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Do you appreciate the full meaning of this letter?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

appreciatedadjectiveFully understood or grasped.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Dangers not yet appreciated.

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

appreciationnounAn increase in price or value.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An appreciation of 30% in the value of real estate.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

appreciativeadjectiveFeeling or expressive of gratitude.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An appreciative word.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

apprehendedadjectiveFully understood or grasped.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

These apprehended truths.

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

apprehensionnounFearful expectation or anticipation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The student looked around the examination room with apprehension.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

apprehensiveadjectiveIn fear or dread of possible evil or harm.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Apprehensive of danger.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

approachnounIdeas or actions intended to deal with a problem or situation.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His approach to every problem is to draw up a list of pros and cons.

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) ↗

approachableadjectiveCapable of being read with comprehension.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The tales seem more approachable than his more difficult novels.

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) ↗

approachingadjectiveOf the relatively near future.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The approaching election.

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

appropriateadjectiveSuitable for a particular person or place or condition etc.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A book not appropriate for children.

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) ↗

appropriatelyadverbIn an appropriate manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was appropriately dressed.

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) ↗

approvalnounThe formal act of approving.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His decision merited the approval of any sensible person.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

approveverbGive sanction to.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I approve of his educational policies.

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) ↗

approvedadjectiveEstablished by authority; given authoritative approval.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A list of approved candidates.

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

approvinglyadverbIn an approving manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She nodded approvingly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

approximateverbBe close or similar.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Her results approximate my own.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

approximatelyadverb(of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lasted approximately an hour.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

approximationnounAn imprecise or incomplete account.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events.

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

aproposadverbAt an opportune time.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Your letter arrived apropos.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

aptadjective(usually followed by `to') naturally disposed toward.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is apt to ignore matters he considers unimportant.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, Latin, Old 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) ↗

aquaticadjectiveOperating or living or growing in water.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Fish are aquatic animals.

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) ↗

arbiternounSomeone chosen to judge and decide a disputed issue.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The critic was considered to be an arbiter of modern literature.

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) ↗

arbitraryadjectiveBased on or subject to individual discretion or preference or sometimes impulse or caprice.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An arbitrary choice.

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) ↗

arbitratornounSomeone chosen to judge and decide a disputed issue.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The arbitrator's authority derived from the consent of the disputants.

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) ↗

arbornounA framework that supports climbing plants.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The arbor provided a shady resting place in the park.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Late Latin, 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) ↗

arcadianadjective(used with regard to idealized country life) idyllically rustic.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A country life of arcadian contentment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, Latin, Occitan, 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) ↗

arcaneadjectiveRequiring secret or mysterious knowledge.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The arcane science of dowsing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

archnounA passageway under a curved masonry construction.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They built a triumphal arch to memorialize their victory.

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) ↗

archaeologicaladjectiveRelated to or dealing with or devoted to archaeology.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An archaeological dig.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

archedadjectiveConstructed with or in the form of an arch or arches.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An arched passageway.

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

archetypaladjectiveRepresenting or constituting an original type after which other similar things are patterned.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Archetypal patterns.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

architecturaladjectiveOf or pertaining to the art and science of architecture.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Architectural design.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

architecturenounThe art and practice of designing buildings.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She studied architecture to design better homes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

Original teaching entry. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

ardentadjectiveGlowing or shining like fire.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Frightened by his ardent burning eyes.

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) ↗

ardornounA feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They were imbued with a revolutionary ardor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

arduousadjectiveCharacterized by effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effort.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Worked their arduous way up the mining valley.

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

areanounA particular geographical region of indefinite boundary (usually serving some special purpose or distinguished by its people or culture or geography).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a mountainous area.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

arguablyadverbAs can be shown by argument.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She is arguably the best.

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) ↗

argumentnounA fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true.

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) ↗

argumentativeadjectiveGiven to or characterized by argument.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An argumentative discourse.

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) ↗

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