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Words 1401–1500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

circulateverbMove through a space, circuit or system, returning to the starting point.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The air here does not circulate.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

circulatingadjectivePassing from one to another.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Circulating bills and coins.

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

circulationnounFree movement or passage (as of cytoplasm within a cell or sap through a plant).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fan aids air circulation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

circumferencenounThe boundary line encompassing an area or object.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had walked the full circumference of his land.

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

circumspectadjectiveHeedful of potential consequences.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Circumspect actions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

circumstantialadjectiveFully detailed and specific about particulars.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A circumstantial report about the debate.

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) ↗

circusnounA performance given by a traveling company of acrobats, clowns, and trained animals.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The children always love to go to the circus.

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) ↗

citizenshipnounConduct as a citizen.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Award for good citizenship.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

citynounA large and densely populated urban area; may include several independent administrative districts.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ancient Troy was a great city.

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) ↗

civiladjectiveNot rude; marked by satisfactory (or especially minimal) adherence to social usages and sufficient but not noteworthy consideration for others.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Even if he didn't like them he should have been civil.

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) ↗

civilizationnounA society in an advanced state of social development (e.g., with complex legal and political and religious organizations).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The people slowly progressed from barbarism to civilization.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

civillyadverbIn a civil manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He treats his former wife civilly.

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) ↗

cladadjectiveWearing or provided with clothing; sometimes used in combination.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Nurses clad in white.

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) ↗

claimnounAn assertion of a right (as to money or property).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His claim asked for damages.

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) ↗

claimantnounSomeone who claims a benefit or right or title.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was a claimant to the throne.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

clambernounAn awkward climb.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Reaching the crest was a real clamber.

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) ↗

clammyadjectiveUnpleasantly cool and humid.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A clammy handshake.

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) ↗

clamornounLoud and persistent outcry from many people.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He ignored the clamor of the crowd.

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) ↗

clandestineadjectiveConducted with or marked by hidden aims or methods.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clandestine intelligence operations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

clangnounA loud resonant repeating noise.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He could hear the clang of distant bells.

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

clankingadjectiveHaving a hard nonresonant metallic sound.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clanking arms of the soldiers near him.

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

clapverbStrike together so as to produce a sharp percussive noise.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clap two boards together.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

clarifyverbMake clear and (more) comprehensible.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clarify the mystery surrounding her death.

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) ↗

clarifyingadjectiveThat makes clear.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A clarifying example.

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

claritynounThe quality of clear water.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

When she awoke the clarity was back in her eyes.

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) ↗

clashnounA state of conflict between colors.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her dress was a disturbing clash of colors.

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

clashingadjectiveSharply and harshly discordant.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clashing interests of loggers and conservationists.

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

claspnounThe act of grasping.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He released his clasp on my arm.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

classnounPeople having the same social, economic, or educational status.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An emerging professional class.

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) ↗

classicadjectiveOf or relating to the most highly developed stage of an earlier civilisation and its culture.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Classic Cinese pottery.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

classicaladjectiveOf recognized authority or excellence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Classical methods of navigation.

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) ↗

classicallyadverbIn the manner of Greek and Roman culture.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This exercise develops a classically shaped body.

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) ↗

classicismnounA movement in literature and art during the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe that favored rationality and restraint and strict forms.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Classicism often derived its models from the ancient Greeks and Romans.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

classifiedadjectiveOfficial classification of information or documents; withheld from general circulation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Thousands of classified documents have now been declassified.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

classifyverbArrange or order by classes or categories.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

How would you classify these pottery shards--are they prehistoric?

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

classlessadjectiveFavoring social equality.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A classless society.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

clatternounA rattling noise (often produced by rapid movement).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clatter of iron wheels on cobblestones.

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) ↗

claynounThe dead body of a human being.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Honor comes to bless the turf that wraps their clay.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

clayeyadjective(used of soil) compact and fine-grained.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clayey soil was heavy and easily saturated.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

cleanadjectiveFree of restrictions or qualifications.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A clean bill of health.

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) ↗

cleaningnounThe act of making something clean.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave his shoes a good cleaning.

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

cleanlyadverbIn an adroit manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He bounced it cleanly off the wall.

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) ↗

cleanseverbPurge of an ideology, bad thoughts, or sins.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Purgatory is supposed to cleanse you from your sins.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

clearadjectiveReadily apparent to the mind.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A clear explanation.

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) ↗

clearancenounPermission to proceed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The plane was given clearance to land.

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) ↗

clearedadjectiveRid of objects or obstructions such as e.g. trees and brush.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A cleared passage through the underbrush.

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

clearlyadverbWithout doubt or question.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were clearly lost.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

cleatverbProvide with cleats.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cleat running shoes for better traction.

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) ↗

cleatsnounShoes with leather or metal projections on the soles.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The football players all wore cleats.

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

cleavagenounThe state of being split or cleft.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a cleavage between the liberal and conservative members.

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) ↗

cleaveverbMake by cutting into.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The water is going to cleave a channel into the rock.

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) ↗

clementadjective(used of persons or behavior) inclined to show mercy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A more clement judge reduced the sentence.

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

clenchverbHold in a tight grasp.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clench a steering wheel.

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) ↗

clenchedadjectiveClosed or squeezed together tightly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His clenched (or clinched) teeth.

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

clericaladjectiveAppropriate for or engaged in office work.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clerical staff.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

cleveradjectiveShowing self-interest and shrewdness in dealing with others.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Too clever to be sound.

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) ↗

cleverlyadverbIn a clever manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were cleverly arranged.

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) ↗

clevernessnounThe property of being ingenious.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The cleverness of its design.

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) ↗

clicknounDepression of a button on a computer mouse.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A click on the right button for example.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

clientelenounCustomers collectively.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They have an upper class clientele.

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) ↗

cliffnounA steep high face of rock.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He stood on a high cliff overlooking the town.

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) ↗

climacticadjectiveConsisting of or causing a climax.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A climactic development.

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) ↗

climatenounThe weather in some location averaged over some long period of time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The dank climate of southern Wales.

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) ↗

climaxnounThe decisive moment in a novel or play.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The deathbed scene is the climax of the play.

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) ↗

climbverbGo upward with gradual or continuous progress.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Did you ever climb up the hill behind your house?

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) ↗

climbernounSomeone who climbs as a sport; especially someone who climbs mountains.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The lead climber looked strong still but his partner often slumped in his ropes.

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) ↗

clinchedadjectiveClosed or squeezed together tightly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His clenched (or clinched) teeth.

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

clinicaladjectiveRelating to a clinic or conducted in or as if in a clinic and depending on direct observation of patients.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clinical case study.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

clinicallyadverbIn a clinical manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She is clinically qualified.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

clipnounAn instance or single occasion for some event.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He could do ten at a clip.

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) ↗

clippedadjective(of speech) having quick short sounds.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A clipped upper-class accent.

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

cloakedadjectiveCovered with or as if with clothes or a wrap or cloak.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fog-cloaked meadows.

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

clobbernounInformal terms for personal possessions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Did you take all your clobber?

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

clockingnounThe time taken to traverse a measured course.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a world record clocking.

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

clockwiseadverbIn the direction that the hands of a clock move.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please move clockwise in a circle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

clogverbBecome or cause to become obstructed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The leaves clog our drains in the Fall.

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) ↗

cloggedadjectiveThickened or coalesced in soft thick lumps (such as clogs or clots).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Seeds clogged together.

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

cloggingadjectivePreventing movement.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clogging crowds of revelers overflowing into the street.

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

cloisteredadjectiveProviding privacy or seclusion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The cloistered academic world of books.

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

cloneverbMake multiple identical copies of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

People can clone a sheep nowadays.

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

closedadjectiveNot open or affording passage or access.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The many closed streets made travel difficult.

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

closelyadverbIn a close relation or position in time or space.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Houses set closely together.

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) ↗

closenessnounThe spatial property resulting from a relatively small distance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sudden closeness of the dock sent him into action.

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) ↗

closeradverb(comparative of `near' or `close') within a shorter distance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Come closer, my dear!

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) ↗

closingadjectiveFinal or ending.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The closing weeks of the year.

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

closurenounTermination of operations.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They regretted the closure of the day care center.

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) ↗

clothnounArtifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Woven cloth originated in Mesopotamia around 5000 BC.

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) ↗

clothedadjectiveWearing or provided with clothing; sometimes used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clothed and in his right mind.

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) ↗

clothesnounClothing in general.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He always bought his clothes at the same store.

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) ↗

clotureverbTerminate debate by calling for a vote.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cloture the discussion.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

cloudnounA mass of tiny water drops or ice crystals floating in the sky.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A white cloud drifted past the sun.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

cloudedadjectiveMade troubled or apprehensive or distressed in appearance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His face was clouded with unhappiness.

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

cloudlessadjectiveFree from clouds.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Under a cloudless sky.

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) ↗

cloudyadjectiveLacking definite form or limits.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Gropes among cloudy issues toward a feeble conclusion.

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) ↗

cloutnoun(boxing) a blow with the fist.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I gave him a clout on his nose.

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) ↗

clubnounA team of professional baseball players who play and travel together.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Each club played six home games with teams in its own division.

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) ↗

clubbyadjectiveEffusively sociable.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We got rather clubby.

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) ↗

clubhousenounA building that is occupied by a social club.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clubhouse needed a new roof.

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) ↗

clumsilyadverbIn a clumsy manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He snatched the bills clumsily.

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) ↗

clumsyadjectiveDifficult to handle or manage especially because of shape.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clumsy wooden shoes.

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) ↗

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.