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Words 2201–2300 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

delayverbAct later than planned, scheduled, or required.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't delay your application to graduate school or else it won't be considered.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

delectableadjectiveCapable of arousing desire.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The delectable Miss Haynes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

deleteverbRemove or make invisible.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please delete my name from your list.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

deleteriousadjectiveHarmful to living things.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Deleterious chemical additives.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

deliberateadjectiveDone carefully and intentionally.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He made a deliberate choice to practice each morning.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

deliberatelyadverbIn a deliberate unhurried manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was working deliberately.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

deliberationnounCareful consideration.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A little deliberation would have deterred them.

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) ↗

deliberativeadjectiveInvolved in or characterized by deliberation and discussion and examination.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A deliberative body.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

delicateadjectiveExquisitely fine and subtle and pleasing; susceptible to injury.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A delicate violin passage.

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) ↗

deliciouslyadverbIn a very pleasurable manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were walking along the beach slowly and deliciously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

delightnounA feeling of extreme pleasure or satisfaction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His delight to see her was obvious to all.

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) ↗

delightfuladjectiveGreatly pleasing or entertaining.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A delightful surprise.

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) ↗

delightfullyadverbIn a delightful manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The farm house, though in itself a small one, is delightfully situated.

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) ↗

delinquencynounA tendency to be negligent and uncaring.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He inherited his delinquency from his father.

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) ↗

delinquentadjectivePast due; not paid at the scheduled time.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A delinquent account.

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) ↗

deliriousadjectiveMarked by uncontrolled excitement or emotion.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A crowd of delirious baseball fans.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

deliverancenounRecovery or preservation from loss or danger.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Work is the deliverance of mankind.

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) ↗

deliverynounThe act of delivering or distributing something (as goods or mail).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His reluctant delivery of bad news.

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) ↗

deltanounA low triangular area of alluvial deposits where a river divides before entering a larger body of water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Mississippi River delta.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

demagogicadjectiveCharacteristic of or resembling a demagogue.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Demagogic speeches.

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) ↗

demandnounThe ability and desire to purchase goods and services.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The demand exceeded the supply.

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) ↗

demandingadjectiveRequiring more than usually expected or thought due; especially great patience and effort and skill.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A baby can be so demanding.

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) ↗

demandinglyadverbIn a demanding manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He became demandingly dominant over the years.

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) ↗

demoverbGive an exhibition of to an interested audience.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We will demo the new software in Washington.

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) ↗

demobilizationnounAct of changing from a war basis to a peace basis including disbanding or discharging troops.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Demobilization of factories.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

democraticadjectiveCharacterized by or advocating or based upon the principles of democracy or social equality.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A democratic country.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late 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) ↗

demolishverbDestroy completely.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Demolish your enemies.

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

demonnounSomeone extremely diligent or skillful.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She's a demon at math.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

demonstrableadjectiveNecessarily or demonstrably true.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Demonstrable truths.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

demonstrablyadverbIn an obvious and provable manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His documentary sources are demonstrably wrong.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

demonstrationnounA show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the customer a demonstration.

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) ↗

demoralizationnounA state of disorder and confusion.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His inconsistency resulted in the demoralization of his staff.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

demurelyadverbIn a demure manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The army girl, tall and demurely pretty, threw a quick side-glance at her.

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) ↗

demystifyverbMake less mysterious or remove the mystery from.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's demystify the event by explaining what it is all about.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

denialnounThe act of refusing to comply (as with a request).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It resulted in a complete denial of his privileges.

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) ↗

denominationaladjectiveRelating to or characteristic of a particular religious denomination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Denominational politics.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

denseadjectiveSlow to learn or understand; lacking intellectual acuity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

So dense he never understands anything I say to him.

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) ↗

denselyadverbIn a concentrated manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Old houses are often so densely packed that perhaps three or four have to be demolished for every new one built.

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) ↗

dentnounAn appreciable consequence (especially a lessening).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It made a dent in my bank account.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

departedadjectiveWell in the past; former.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Relics of a departed era.

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

departmentnounA specialized division of a large organization.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You'll find it in the hardware department.

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) ↗

departmentaladjectiveOf or relating to a department.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Departmental policy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

dependverbHave faith or confidence in.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Depend on your family in times of crisis.

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) ↗

dependableadjectiveWorthy of reliance or trust.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A dependable worker.

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) ↗

dependentadjectiveRelying on or requiring a person or thing for support, supply, or what is needed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Dependent children.

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

depersonalizeverbMake impersonal or present as an object.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Will computers depersonalize human interactions?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

depletedadjectiveNo longer sufficient.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Our funds are depleted.

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

deplorableadjectiveBad; unfortunate.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My finances were in a deplorable state.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

deploreverbExpress strong disapproval of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We deplore the government's treatment of political prisoners.

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

depositverbPut (something somewhere) firmly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Deposit the suitcase on the bench.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

depravedadjectiveDeviating from what is considered moral or right or proper or good.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Depraved criminals.

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

depravitynounMoral perversion; impairment of virtue and moral principles.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Its brothels, its opium parlors, its depravity.

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

deprecatingadjectiveTending to diminish or disparage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Managed a deprecating smile at the compliment.

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

depreciationnounA decrease in price or value.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Depreciation of the dollar against the yen.

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) ↗

depressedadjectiveLower than previously.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The market is depressed.

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

depressingadjectiveCausing sad feelings of gloom and inadequacy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The economic outlook is depressing.

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

depressionnounPushing down.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Depression of the space bar on the typewriter.

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) ↗

deprivedadjectiveMarked by deprivation especially of the necessities of life or healthful environmental influences.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A childhood that was unhappy and deprived, the family living off charity.

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

depthnounThe extent downward or backward or inward.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The depth of the water.

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) ↗

derailverbCause to run off the tracks.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had planned to derail the trains that carried atomic waste.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

derelictadjectiveFailing in what duty requires.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Derelict (or delinquent) in his duty.

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

derisivelyadverbIn a disrespectful and mocking manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`Sorry,' she repeated derisively.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

derivationnounThe source or origin from which something derives (i.e. comes or issues).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Music of Turkish derivation.

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) ↗

derivativenoun(linguistics) a word that is derived from another word.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`electricity' is a derivative of `electric'.

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) ↗

derivedadjectiveFormed or developed from something else; not original.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The belief that classes and organizations are secondary and derived.

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

describedadjectiveRepresented in words especially with sharpness and detail.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The vividly described wars.

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

descriptiveadjectiveServing to describe or inform or characterized by description.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A descriptive passage.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

desecrateverbViolate the sacred character of a place or language.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Desecrate a cemetery.

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

desecratedadjectiveTreated with contempt.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Many desecrated shrines and cemeteries.

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

desecrationnounBlasphemous behavior; the act of depriving something of its sacred character.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Desecration of the Holy Sabbath.

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

deserveverbBe worthy or deserving.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You deserve a promotion after all the hard work you have done.

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) ↗

deservingadjectiveWorthy of being treated in a particular way.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The deserving poor.

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

desiccateadjectiveLacking vitality or spirit; lifeless.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A desiccate romance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

desiccatedadjectiveLacking vitality or spirit; lifeless.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A prissy and emotionless creature...settles into a mold of desiccated snobbery.

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

designverbMake or work out a plan for; devise.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Design a new sales strategy.

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) ↗

designedadjectiveDone or made or performed with purpose and intent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Well-designed houses.

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

designingadjectiveConcealing crafty designs for advancing your own interest.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A selfish and designing nation obsessed with the dark schemes of European intrigue.

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

desirableadjectiveWorth having or seeking or achieving.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A desirable outcome.

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) ↗

desiredadjectiveWanted intensely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It produced the desired effect.

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

desirousadjectiveHaving or expressing desire for something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Desirous of high office.

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) ↗

desolateadjectiveProviding no shelter or sustenance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The desolate surface of the moon.

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) ↗

despairnounA state in which all hope is lost or absent.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In the depths of despair.

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) ↗

despairingadjectiveArising from or marked by despair or loss of hope.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A despairing view of the world situation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

desperateadjectiveArising from or marked by despair or loss of hope.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her desperate screams.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

desperatelyadverbWith great urgency.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The soil desperately needed potash.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

desperationnounA state in which all hope is lost or absent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Courage born of desperation.

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) ↗

despitenounContemptuous disregard.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She wanted neither favor nor despite.

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) ↗

despondentadjectiveWithout or almost without hope.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Despondent about his failure.

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

despoticadjectiveRuled by or characteristic of a despot.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Moved from a feudal to a despotic order.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

destinationnounThe place designated as the end (as of a race or journey).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was nearly exhausted as their destination came into view.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

destinedadjective(usually followed by `to') governed by fate.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is destined to be famous.

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

destinynounThe ultimate agency regarded as predetermining the course of events (often personified as a woman).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are helpless in the face of destiny.

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) ↗

destituteadjectiveCompletely wanting or lacking.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Young recruits destitute of experience.

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) ↗

destroyedadjectiveSpoiled or ruined or demolished.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

War left many cities destroyed.

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

destroyernounA person who destroys or ruins or lays waste to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A destroyer of the environment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

destructverbDestroy (one's own missile or rocket).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The engineers had to destruct the rocket for safety reasons.

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) ↗

destructiveadjectiveCausing destruction or much damage.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Destructive criticism.

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) ↗

desultoryadjectiveMarked by lack of definite plan or regularity or purpose; jumping from one thing to another.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Desultory thoughts.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

detachverbCause to become detached or separated; take off.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Detach the skin from the chicken before you eat it.

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) ↗

detachableadjectiveDesigned to be unfastened or disconnected without damage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shirts with detachable collars.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

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.