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Words 2901–3000 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

engageverbHire for work or assistance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Engage aid, help, services, or support.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

engagedadjectiveInvolved in military hostilities.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The desperately engaged ships continued the fight.

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

engagementnounA hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He lost his romantic ideas about war when he got into a real engagement.

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) ↗

engagingadjectiveAttracting or delighting.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An engaging frankness.

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

enginenounSomething used to achieve a purpose.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An engine of change.

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) ↗

engineeringnounThe discipline dealing with the art or science of applying scientific knowledge to practical problems.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had trouble deciding which branch of engineering to study.

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

engraveverbCarve or cut a design or letters into.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Engrave the pen with the owner's name.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

engravedadjectiveCut or impressed into a surface.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Engraved invitations.

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

engrossedadjectiveGiving or marked by complete attention to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That engrossed look or rapt delight.

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

enhanceverbMake better or more attractive.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This sauce will enhance the flavor of the meat.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

enhancedadjectiveIncreased or intensified in value or beauty or quality.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Careful cleaning was responsible for the enhanced value of the painting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

enigmaticadjectiveNot clear to the understanding.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I didn't grasp the meaning of that enigmatic comment until much later.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

enjoyableadjectiveAffording satisfaction or pleasure.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The company was enjoyable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

enlargedadjectiveAs of a photograph; made larger.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The enlarged photograph revealed many details.

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

enlightenverbMake understand.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you enlighten me--I don't understand this proposal.

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) ↗

enlighteningadjectiveTending to increase knowledge or dissipate ignorance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An enlightening glimpse of government in action.

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

enlivenedadjectiveMade lively or spirited.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A meal enlivened by the music.

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

enmeshedadjectiveCaught as if in a mesh.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Enmeshed in financial difficulties.

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

ennoblingadjectiveTending to exalt.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ennobling thoughts.

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

enormitynounVastness of size or extent.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Universities recognized the enormity of their task.

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) ↗

enormousadjectiveExtraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An enormous boulder.

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) ↗

enoughadverbAs much as necessary.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Have I eaten enough?

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) ↗

enragedadjectiveMarked by extreme anger.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The enraged bull attached.

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

ensuingadjectiveFollowing immediately and as a result of what went before.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ensuing events confirmed the prediction.

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

ensureverbMake certain of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This nest egg will ensure a nice retirement for us.

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) ↗

entailverbImpose, involve, or imply as a necessary accompaniment or result.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

What does this move entail?

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) ↗

entangledadjectiveTwisted together in a tangled mass.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Toiled through entangled growths of mesquite.

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

enterverbBecome a participant; be involved in.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Enter an agreement.

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) ↗

enterprisenounA purposeful or industrious undertaking (especially one that requires effort or boldness).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had doubts about the whole enterprise.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

enterprisingadjectiveMarked by imagination, initiative, and readiness to undertake new projects.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An enterprising foreign policy.

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

entertainverbMaintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Entertain interesting notions.

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) ↗

entertainingadjectiveAgreeably diverting.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An entertaining puppet show.

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

enthusiasmnounA lively interest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Enthusiasm for his program is growing.

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) ↗

enthusiasticadjectiveHaving or showing great excitement and interest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An enthusiastic response.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

enthusiasticallyadverbWith enthusiasm; in an enthusiastic manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They discussed the question enthusiastically.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

enticingadjectiveHighly attractive and able to arouse hope or desire.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Difficult to say no to an enticing advertisement.

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

entireadjectiveConstituting the full quantity or extent; complete.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An entire town devastated by an earthquake.

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) ↗

entirelyadverbTo a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole' is often used informally for `wholly').advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Entirely satisfied with the meal.

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) ↗

entiretynounThe state of being total and complete.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He read the article in its entirety.

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) ↗

entitledadjectiveQualified for by right according to law.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are all entitled to equal protection under the law.

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

entrantnounA commodity that enters competition with established merchandise.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A well publicized entrant is the pocket computer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

entreatynounEarnest or urgent request.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An entreaty to stop the fighting.

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

entreenounThe act of entering.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She made a graceful entree into the ballroom.

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

entrenchedadjectiveEstablished firmly and securely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The entrenched power of the nobility.

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

entrepreneurnounA person who starts and runs a business.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The entrepreneur opened a small neighborhood bakery.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

entrepreneurialadjectiveOf or relating to an entrepreneur.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Entrepreneurial risks.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

entropynoun(thermodynamics) a thermodynamic quantity representing the amount of energy in a system that is no longer available for doing mechanical work.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Entropy increases as matter and energy in the universe degrade to an ultimate state of inert uniformity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

entrywaynounSomething that provides access (to get in or get out).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Beggars waited just outside the entryway to the cathedral.

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) ↗

envelopenounThe maximum operating capability of a system (especially an aircraft).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Test pilots try to push the envelope.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

envelopingadjectiveSurrounding and closing in on or hemming in.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The army's enveloping maneuver.

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

enviableadjectiveCausing envy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An enviable position.

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

enviousadjectiveShowing extreme cupidity; painfully desirous of another's advantages.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Envious of their art collection.

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) ↗

environmentnounThe surroundings in which someone or something lives.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We worked together to protect the local environment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French, through English

Original teaching entry.

environmentaladjectiveOf or relating to the external conditions or surroundings.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Environmental factors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

envisionverbPicture to oneself; imagine possible.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I cannot envision him as President.

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) ↗

envisionedadjectiveSeen in the mind as a mental image.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The glory of his envisioned future.

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

ephemeraladjectiveLasting a very short time.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ephemeral joys of childhood.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

epicureanadjectiveDisplaying luxury and furnishing gratification to the senses.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An epicurean banquet.

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

epidemicadjective(especially of medicine) of disease or anything resembling a disease; attacking or affecting many individuals in a community or a population simultaneously.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An epidemic outbreak of influenza.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

epiloguenounA short passage added at the end of a literary work.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The epilogue told what eventually happened to the main characters.

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

episodicadjectiveLimited in duration to a single episode.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An account concerned primarily with episodic events such as the succession of rulers.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

epistolaryadjectiveWritten in the form of or carried on by letters or correspondence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An endless sequence of epistolary love affairs.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

epochaladjectiveHighly significant or important especially bringing about or marking the beginning of a new development or era.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Epochal decisions made by Roosevelt and Churchill.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

equaladjectiveHaving the same quantity, value, or measure as another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

All men are equal before the law.

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) ↗

equalizeverbMake equal, uniform, corresponding, or matching.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's equalize the duties among all employees in this office.

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) ↗

equallyadverbTo the same degree (often followed by `as').intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were equally beautiful.

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) ↗

equanimitynounSteadiness of mind under stress.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He accepted their problems with composure and she with equanimity.

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

equateverbConsider or describe as similar, equal, or analogous.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You cannot equate success in financial matters with greed.

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) ↗

equatornounAn imaginary line around the Earth forming the great circle that is equidistant from the north and south poles.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The equator is the boundary between the northern and southern hemispheres.

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

equatorialadjectiveOf or relating to or at an equator.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Equatorial diameter.

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

equippedadjectiveProvided or fitted out with what is necessary or useful or appropriate.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A well equipped playground.

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

equitableadjectiveFair to all parties as dictated by reason and conscience.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Equitable treatment of all citizens.

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

equitablyadverbIn an equitable manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The inheritance was equitably divided among the sisters.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

equivalentnounA person or thing equal to another in value or measure or force or effect or significance etc.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Send two dollars or the equivalent in stamps.

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

equivocaladjectiveOpen to two or more interpretations; or of uncertain nature or significance; or (often) intended to mislead.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An equivocal statement.

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) ↗

erasableadjectiveCapable of being effaced.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A signal too loud to be erasable in a single pass through the erase head.

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) ↗

eraseverbRemove by or as if by rubbing or erasing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please erase the formula on the blackboard--it is wrong!

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

erectadjectiveUpright in position or posture.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Erect flower stalks.

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) ↗

erosionnounA gradual decline of something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

After the accounting scandal there was an erosion of confidence in the auditors.

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) ↗

erosiveadjectiveWearing away by friction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The erosive effects of waves on the shoreline.

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

erraticadjectiveLikely to perform unpredictably.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Erratic winds are the bane of a sailor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

erraticallyadverbIn an erratic unpredictable manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Economic changes are proceeding erratically.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

erroneousadjectiveContaining or characterized by error.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Erroneous conclusions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

erstwhileadverbAt a previous time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her erstwhile writing.

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) ↗

eruditeadjectiveHaving or showing profound knowledge.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An erudite professor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

eruptiveadjectiveActively spewing out lava.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A geyser is an intermittently eruptive hot spring.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

escaladeverbClimb up and over.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had to escalade canyons to reach their destination.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

escalationnounAn increase to counteract a perceived discrepancy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Higher wages caused an escalation of prices.

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) ↗

escapenounThe act of escaping physically.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He made his escape from the mental hospital.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

esotericadjectiveConfined to and understandable by only an enlightened inner circle.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A compilation of esoteric philosophical theories.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

especialadjectiveSurpassing what is common or usual or expected.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He paid especial attention to her.

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) ↗

especiallyadverbTo a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An especially (or specially) cautious approach to the danger.

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) ↗

essentialadjectiveAbsolutely necessary; vitally necessary.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Essential tools and materials.

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) ↗

essentiallyadverbIn essence; at bottom or by one's (or its) very nature.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The argument was essentially a technical one.

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) ↗

establishverbSet up or lay the groundwork for.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Establish a new department.

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) ↗

establishmentnounThe act of forming or establishing something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was the establishment of his reputation.

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) ↗

estatenounExtensive landed property (especially in the country) retained by the owner for his own use.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The family owned a large estate on Long Island.

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) ↗

esteemnounThe condition of being honored (esteemed or respected or well regarded).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is held in esteem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

esteemedadjectiveHaving an illustrious reputation; respected.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Our esteemed leader.

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

estheticnoun(philosophy) a philosophical theory as to what is beautiful.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He despised the esthetic of minimalism.

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

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.