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Words 2401–2500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
directedadjective(often used in combination) having a specified direction.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A positively directed vector.

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

directingadjectiveShowing the way by conducting or leading; imposing direction on.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt his mother's directing arm around him.

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

directionnounA line leading to a place or point.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He looked the other direction.

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) ↗

directionaladjectiveRelating to or indicating directions in space.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A directional microphone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

directlyadverbWithout deviation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The path leads directly to the lake.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

directnessnounTrueness of course toward a goal.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Rivaling a hawk in directness of aim.

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) ↗

dirtyadjectiveSoiled or likely to soil with dirt or grime.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Piles of dirty dishes.

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) ↗

disabilitynounThe condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Reading disability.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

disableverbMake unable to perform a certain action.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disable this command on your computer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

disablednounPeople collectively who are crippled or otherwise physically handicapped.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Technology to help the elderly and the disabled.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

disablingadjectiveDepriving of legal right; rendering legally disqualified.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Certain disabling restrictions disqualified him for citizenship.

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

disabusedadjectiveFreed of a mistaken or misguided notion.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Some people are still not disabused of the old idea that the universe revolves around the Earth.

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

disaffectionnounDisloyalty to the government or to established authority.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The widespread disaffection of the troops.

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

disagreeableadjectiveNot to your liking.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A disagreeable situation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

disappointedadjectiveDisappointingly unsuccessful.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disappointed expectations and thwarted ambitions.

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

disappointingadjectiveNot up to expectations.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A disappointing performance from one who had seemed so promising.

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

disappointmentnounA feeling of dissatisfaction that results when your expectations are not realized.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His hopes were so high he was doomed to disappointment.

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) ↗

disapproveverbDeem wrong or inappropriate.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I disapprove of her child rearing methods.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle 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) ↗

disarmamentnounAct of reducing or depriving of arms.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The disarmament of the aggressor nations must be complete.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

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

The earthquake was a disaster.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

The battle was a disastrous end to a disastrous campaign.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

discernibleadjectivePerceptible by the senses or intellect.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Things happen in the earth and sky with no discernible cause.

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) ↗

discerningadjectiveHaving or revealing keen insight and good judgment.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A discerning critic.

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

discernmentnounThe trait of judging wisely and objectively.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A man of discernment.

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) ↗

dischargeverbComplete or carry out.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Discharge one's duties.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disciplinaryadjectiveDesigned to promote discipline.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The mother was stern and disciplinary.

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) ↗

disciplineverbDevelop (children's) behavior by instruction and practice; especially to teach self-control.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Parents must discipline their children.

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) ↗

disciplinedadjectiveTrained mentally or physically by instruction or exercise.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A disciplined mind.

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

discloseverbMake known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The auction house would not disclose the price at which the van Gogh had sold.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disclosedadjectiveMade known (especially something secret or concealed).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The disclosed purpose of their wicked plan.

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

disconcertingadjectiveCausing an emotional disturbance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His disconcerting habit of greeting friends ferociously and strangers charmingly.

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) ↗

disconnectnounAn unbridgeable disparity (as from a failure of understanding).advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

There is a vast disconnect between public opinion and federal policy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

discontentadjectiveShowing or experiencing dissatisfaction or restless longing.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Saw many discontent faces in the room.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

discontentedadjectiveShowing or experiencing dissatisfaction or restless longing.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Was discontented with his position.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

discontinueverbCome to or be at an end.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The support from our sponsoring agency will discontinue after March 31.

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

discordantadjectiveNot in agreement or harmony.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Views discordant with present-day ideas.

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

discountverbGive a reduction in price on.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I never discount these books-they sell like hot cakes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

discourageverbTry to prevent; show opposition to.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We should discourage this practice among our youth.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

discouragedadjectiveMade less hopeful or enthusiastic.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt discouraged by the magnitude of the problem.

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

discouragingadjectiveDepriving of confidence or hope or enthusiasm and hence often deterring action.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Where never is heard a discouraging word.

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

discoververbTo find or learn something for the first time.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They hoped to discover a new trail through the woods.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

discreditnounThe state of being held in low esteem.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Your actions will bring discredit to your name.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle 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) ↗

discreditedadjectiveBeing unjustly brought into disrepute.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A discredited politician.

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

discreetadjectiveMarked by prudence or modesty and wise self-restraint.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His trusted discreet aide.

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) ↗

discreetlyadverbWith discretion; prudently and with wise self-restraint.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I sent for the sergeant of the platoon both men were in and asked him to try to find out discreetly what lay behind this.

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) ↗

discreteadjectiveConstituting a separate entity or part.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A government with three discrete divisions.

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) ↗

discretionnounKnowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The servants showed great tact and discretion.

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) ↗

discretionaryadjectiveHaving or using the ability to act or decide according to your own discretion or judgment.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The commission has discretionary power to award extra funds.

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) ↗

discriminatingadjectiveShowing or indicating careful judgment and discernment especially in matters of taste.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The discriminating eye of the connoisseur.

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

discursiveadjective(of e.g. speech and writing) tending to depart from the main point or cover a wide range of subjects.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A rambling discursive book.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

discussionnounAn extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topic.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The book contains an excellent discussion of modal logic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

disdainfuladjectiveHaving or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Some economists are disdainful of their colleagues in other social disciplines.

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) ↗

disengageverbRelease from something that holds fast, connects, or entangles.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disengage the gears.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disentangleverbExtricate from entanglement.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you disentangle the cord?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

disfavornounThe state of being out of favor.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is in disfavor with the king.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disfiguredadjectiveHaving the appearance spoiled.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Strip mining left a disfigured landscape.

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

disfigurementnounThe act of damaging the appearance or surface of something.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He objected to the dam's massive disfigurement of the landscape.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

disguisenounAn outward semblance that misrepresents the true nature of something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The theatrical notion of disguise is always associated with catastrophe in his stories.

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) ↗

disgustedadjectiveHaving a strong distaste from surfeit.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Grew more and more disgusted.

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

dishnounA particular item of prepared food.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She prepared a special dish for dinner.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

disheartenedadjectiveMade less hopeful or enthusiastic.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The disheartened instructor tried vainly to arouse their interest.

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

disheveledadjectiveIn disarray; extremely disorderly.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Her clothing was disheveled.

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

dishonestadjectiveCapable of being corrupted.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Dishonest politicians.

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) ↗

dishonornounA state of shame or disgrace.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was resigned to a life of dishonor.

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

dishonorableadjectiveLacking honor or integrity; deserving dishonor.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Dishonorable in thought and deed.

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

disinclinedadjectiveUnwilling because of mild dislike or disapproval.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disinclined to say anything to anybody.

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) ↗

disjointverbSeparate at the joints.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disjoint the chicken before cooking it.

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) ↗

disknounSomething with a round shape resembling a flat circular plate.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The moon's disk hung in a cloudless sky.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

dislikenounA feeling of aversion or antipathy.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

My dislike of him was instinctive.

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) ↗

dislikedadjectiveRegarded with aversion.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was intensely disliked.

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

disloyaladjectiveDeserting your allegiance or duty to leader or cause or principle.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disloyal aides revealed his indiscretions to the papers.

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

dismaladjectiveCausing dejection.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The first dismal dispiriting days of November.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

dismallyadverbIn a cheerless manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In August 1914 , there was a dismally sentimental little dinner, when the French, German, Austrian and Belgian members of the committee drank together to the peace of the future.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

dismissiveadjectiveStopping to associate with.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They took dismissive action after the third violation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

disobedientadjectiveNot obeying or complying with commands of those in authority.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disobedient children.

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) ↗

disordernounA physical condition in which there is a disturbance of normal functioning.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The doctor prescribed some medicine for the disorder.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

disorderedadjectiveThrown into a state of disarray or confusion.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The small disordered room.

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

disorderlyadjectiveUndisciplined and unruly.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disorderly conduct.

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

disorganizationnounThe disturbance of a systematic arrangement causing disorder and confusion.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The disorganization of the enemy troops by a flank attack.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disorganizedadjectiveLacking order or methodical arrangement or function.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A disorganized enterprise.

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

disorientingadjectiveCausing loss of physical or intellectual bearings.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sharp blow to the head can be disorienting.

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

disparateadjectiveFundamentally different or distinct in quality or kind.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Such disparate attractions as grand opera and game fishing.

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) ↗

dispassionateadjectiveUnaffected by strong emotion or prejudice.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A journalist should be a dispassionate reporter of fact.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

dispassionatelyadverbIn an impartially dispassionate manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Although he was looking at the other girl, he did so dispassionately.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

dispatchnounThe property of being prompt and efficient.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was done with dispatch.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

dispensedadjectiveDistributed or weighted out in carefully determined portions.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Medicines dispensed to the sick.

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

disperseverbCause to separate.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disperse particles.

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) ↗

dispersedadjectiveDistributed or spread over a considerable extent.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Has ties with many widely dispersed friends.

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

dispersionnounThe act of dispersing or diffusing something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The dispersion of the troops.

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) ↗

dispiritedadjectiveFilled with melancholy and despondency.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A dispirited and resigned expression on her face.

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

displayverbTo show, make visible or apparent.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

National leaders will have to display the highest skills of statesmanship.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disposableadjectiveDesigned to be disposed of after use.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disposable paper cups.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

disposalnounThe power to use something or someone.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Used all the resources at his disposal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Hindi, 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) ↗

dispositionnounYour usual mood.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He has a happy disposition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

disputenounA disagreement or argument about something important.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a dispute with his wife.

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) ↗

disregardverbGive little or no attention to.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Disregard the errors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

disreputenounThe state of being held in low esteem.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Because of the scandal the school has fallen into disrepute.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

disruptedadjectiveMarked by breaks or gaps.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Many routes are unsafe or disrupted.

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

disruptiveadjectiveCharacterized by unrest or disorder or insubordination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Effects of the struggle will be violent and disruptive.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

dissatisfactionnounThe feeling of being displeased and discontent.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was never slow to express his dissatisfaction with the service he received.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle 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) ↗

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