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Words 1101–1200 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
brokenadjectivePhysically and forcibly separated into pieces or cracked or split.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His neck is broken.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Middle English, Old Dutch, 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) ↗

bronchialadjectiveRelating to or associated with the bronchi.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bronchial pneumonia.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

bronzedadjective(of skin) having a tan color from exposure to the sun.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A young bronzed Apollo.

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

broodingadjectiveDeeply or seriously thoughtful.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Byron lives on not only in his poetry, but also in his creation of the 'Byronic hero' - the persona of a brooding melancholy young man.

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

brothernounA male with the same parents as someone else.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

My brother still lives with our parents.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

brotherlyadjectiveLike or characteristic of or befitting a brother.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Brotherly feelings.

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) ↗

brownounThe peak of a hill.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sun set behind the brow of distant hills.

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) ↗

brownverbFry in a pan until it changes color.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Brown the meat in the pan.

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) ↗

browsenounVegetation (such as young shoots, twigs, and leaves) that is suitable for animals to eat.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A deer needs to eat twenty pounds of browse every day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

bruiseverbBreak up into small pieces for food preparation.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bruise the berries with a wooden spoon and strain them.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

bruisingadjectiveBrutally forceful and compelling.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Protected from the bruising facts of battle.

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

brunchverbEat a meal in the late morning.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We brunch in Sundays.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

bruntnounMain force of a blow etc.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bore the brunt of the attack.

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) ↗

brushnounContact with something dangerous or undesirable.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I had a brush with danger on my way to work.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

brushedadjective(of hair or clothing) groomed with a brush.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

With shining hair neatly brushed.

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

brushyadjectiveCovered with or consisting of bushes or thickets.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Brushy undergrowth.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

brusqueadjectiveMarked by rude or peremptory shortness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Try to cultivate a less brusque manner.

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) ↗

brutaladjectiveDisagreeably direct and precise.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He spoke with brutal honesty.

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) ↗

brutishadjectiveResembling a beast; showing lack of human sensibility.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A dull and brutish man.

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) ↗

bubblenounAn impracticable and illusory idea.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He didn't want to burst the newcomer's bubble.

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

bubblingadjectiveEmitting or filled with bubbles as from carbonation or fermentation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bubbling champagne.

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

bubblyadjectiveFull of or showing high spirits.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bubbly personality.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

buccaladjectiveOriented toward the inside of the cheek.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The buccal aspect of the gum.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

bucolicadjective(used with regard to idealized country life) idyllically rustic.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A pleasant bucolic scene.

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) ↗

budgetnounA sum of money allocated for a particular purpose.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The laboratory runs on a budget of a million a year.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Gaulish, 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) ↗

budgetaryadjectiveOf or relating to a budget.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Budgetary considerations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Gaulish, 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) ↗

buffverbPolish and make shiny.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Buff the wooden floors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

bugaboonounA source of concern.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The old bugaboo of inflation still bothers them.

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

buggedadjectiveHaving hidden electronic eavesdropping devices.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Even the car is bugged.

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

buildverbBolster or strengthen.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Build up confidence.

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) ↗

buildingnounA structure that has a roof and walls and stands more or less permanently in one place.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a three-story building on the corner.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

buildupnounThe act of building up an accumulation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I envied his rapid buildup of assets.

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) ↗

builtadjective(used of soaps or cleaning agents) having a substance (an abrasive or filler) added to increase effectiveness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The built liquid detergents.

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

bulbnounA rounded part of a cylindrical instrument (usually at one end).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The bulb of a syringe.

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) ↗

bulknounThe property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The bulk of the work is finished.

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) ↗

bullnounA serious and ludicrous blunder.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He made a bad bull of the assignment.

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) ↗

bulletproofadjectiveWithout flaws or loopholes.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bulletproof argument.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

bumblingadjectiveLacking physical movement skills, especially with the hands.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bumbling mechanic.

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

bummernounAn experience that is irritating or frustrating or disappointing.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Having to stand in line so long was a real bummer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Chinese, German, 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) ↗

bumpnounAn impact (as from a collision).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The bump threw him off the bicycle.

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

bumpernounA glass filled to the brim (especially as a toast).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We quaffed a bumper of ale.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

bumpyadjectiveCovered with or full of bumps.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bumpy country road.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

bundlenounA large sum of money (especially as pay or profit).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She made a bundle selling real estate.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

bundlingnounThe act of shoving hastily.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She complained about bundling the children off to school.

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

bunglingadjectiveLacking physical movement skills, especially with the hands.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bungling performance.

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

buoyancynounIrrepressible liveliness and good spirit.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I admired his buoyancy and persistent good humor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Frankish, Latin, Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

buoyantadjectiveTending to float on a liquid or rise in air or gas.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Buoyant balsawood boats.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Frankish, Latin, Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

burdennounAn onerous or difficult concern.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The burden of responsibility.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

burdenedadjectiveBearing a heavy burden of work or difficulties or responsibilities.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She always felt burdened by the load of paper work.

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

burdensomeadjectiveNot easily borne; wearing.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The burdensome task of preparing the income tax return.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

bureaucracynounA system of administration with many officials and procedures.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The application moved slowly through the bureaucracy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

bureaucraticadjectiveOf or relating to or resembling a bureaucrat or bureaucracy.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A bureaucratic nightmare.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

burgnounColloquial American term for a town.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I've lived in this burg all my life.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

buriedadjectivePlaced in a grave.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The hastily buried corpses.

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) ↗

burlyadjectiveMuscular and heavily built.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Had a tall burly frame.

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

burnverbSpend (significant amounts of money).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He has money to burn.

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) ↗

burnedadjectiveDestroyed or badly damaged by fire.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A row of burned houses.

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

burnernounAn apparatus for burning fuel (or refuse).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A diesel engine is an oil burner.

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) ↗

burningadjectiveOf immediate import.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Burning issues of the day.

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

burnishedadjectiveMade smooth and bright by or as if by rubbing; reflecting a sheen or glow.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A burnished brass knocker.

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

burntadjectiveRuined by overcooking.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She served us underdone bacon and burnt biscuits.

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) ↗

burpverbExpel gas from the stomach.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In China it is polite to burp at the table.

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

burrowverbMove through by or as by digging.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Burrow through the forest.

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) ↗

burstverbMove suddenly, energetically, or violently.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He burst out of the house into the cool night.

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) ↗

buryverbDismiss from the mind; stop remembering.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I tried to bury these unpleasant memories.

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) ↗

busnounA vehicle carrying many passengers; used for public transport.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He always rode the bus to work.

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) ↗

bushwhackingadjectiveLying in ambush.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bushwhacking guerrillas attacking from ambush.

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

busilyadverbIn a busy manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They were busily engaged in buying souvenirs.

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) ↗

businessnounA commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A small mom-and-pop business.

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) ↗

bustnounAn occasion for excessive eating or drinking.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They went on a bust that lasted three days.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

busternounAn informal form of address for a man.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Hey buster, what's up?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

busyadjectiveActively or fully engaged or occupied.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Busy with her work.

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) ↗

butadverbAnd nothing more.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Hopes that last but a moment.

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) ↗

buttnounThe fleshy part of the human body that you sit on.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He deserves a good kick in the butt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

butteryadjectiveResembling or containing or spread with butter.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A rich buttery cake.

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

buttressverbMake stronger or defensible.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Buttress your thesis.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

buxomadjective(of a female body) healthily plump and vigorous.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A generation ago...buxom actresses were popular.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Dutch, Middle Dutch, Middle English, Middle Low German, Old Dutch, Old English, Old Saxon. 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) ↗

buynounAn advantageous purchase.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The stock was a real buy at that price.

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) ↗

buzznounA confusion of activity and gossip.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The buzz of excitement was so great that a formal denial was issued.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

byenounYou advance to the next round in a tournament without playing an opponent.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a bye in the first round.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

bypassverbAvoid something unpleasant or laborious.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You cannot bypass these rules!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

cabaretnounA spot that is open late at night and that provides entertainment (as singers or dancers) as well as dancing and food and drink.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't expect a good meal at a cabaret.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin, Middle Dutch, Middle French, Old Northern French, Picard. 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) ↗

caboodlenounAny collection in its entirety.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She bought the whole caboodle.

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

cadavernounThe dead body of a human being.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The cadaver was intended for dissection.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

cageyadjectiveCharacterized by great caution and wariness.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A cagey avoidance of a definite answer.

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

calamitousadjective(of events) having extremely unfortunate or dire consequences; bringing ruin.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A calamitous defeat.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

calamitynounAn event resulting in great loss and misfortune.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The whole city was affected by the irremediable calamity.

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) ↗

calcifyverbBecome inflexible and unchanging.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Old folks can calcify.

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

calculatedadjectiveCarefully thought out in advance.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A calculated insult.

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

calculatingadjectiveUsed of persons.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The most calculating and selfish men in the community.

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

calendarnounA system or chart showing days, weeks, and months.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Mark the date of the trip on your calendar.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

calibernounA degree or grade of excellence or worth.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An executive of low caliber.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

calibrateverbMake fine adjustments or divide into marked intervals for optimal measuring.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Calibrate an instrument.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

calibratedadjectiveMarked with or divided into degrees.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A calibrated thermometer.

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

calibrationnounThe act of checking or adjusting (by comparison with a standard) the accuracy of a measuring instrument.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The thermometer needed calibration.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

callverbGet or try to get into communication (with someone) by telephone.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I tried to call you all night.

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) ↗

callernounThe person who convenes a meeting.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Who is the caller of this meeting?

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) ↗

callousadjectiveEmotionally hardened.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A callous indifference to suffering.

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

callouslyadverbIn a callous way.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He callously exploited their feelings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

calmadjectiveNot agitated; without losing self-possession.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Spoke in a calm voice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Italian, Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Old 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) ↗

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