THE US ENGLISH PRACTICE BANK

Meet your next word.

Tap to listen. Shuffle to discover. Explore more than 10,000 words with definitions, examples, and a consistent American English voice.

Explore past bee words and study guides →

Pick a speaker to listen, or shuffle a fresh set of 12.

Words 3301–3400 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

feebleadjectiveLacking bodily or muscular strength or vitality.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A feeble old woman.

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) ↗

feeblyadverbIn a halting and feeble manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Reform, in fact, is, rather feebly, on the win.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

feedverbProvide as food.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Feed the guests the nuts.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Medieval 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) ↗

feedernounA machine that automatically provides a supply of some material.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The feeder discharged feed into a trough for the livestock.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Medieval 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) ↗

feelverbCome to believe on the basis of emotion, intuitions, or indefinite grounds.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I feel that he doesn't like me.

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) ↗

feelingnounThe experiencing of affective and emotional states.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She had a feeling of euphoria.

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) ↗

feelingsnounEmotional or moral sensitivity (especially in relation to personal principles or dignity).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The remark hurt his feelings.

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

feistyadjectiveShowing courage.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The champion is faced with a feisty challenger.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

felicitousadjectiveExhibiting an agreeably appropriate manner or style.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A felicitous speaker.

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) ↗

fellownounA boy or man.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There's a fellow at the door.

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) ↗

femaleadjectiveCharacteristic of or peculiar to a woman.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Female sensitiveness.

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) ↗

feminineadjectiveAssociated with women and not with men.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Feminine intuition.

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) ↗

fendverbWithstand the force of something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The mountain climbers had to fend against the ice and snow.

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) ↗

fendernounA barrier that surrounds the wheels of a vehicle to block splashing water or mud.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In Britain they call a fender a wing.

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) ↗

feraladjectiveWild and menacing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pack of feral dogs.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

fermentnounA state of agitation or turbulent change or development.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The political ferment produced new leadership.

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

ferociousadjectiveMarked by extreme and violent energy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A ferocious beating.

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) ↗

ferociouslyadverbIn a physically fierce manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Silence broken by dogs barking ferociously.

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) ↗

fertilizeverbProvide with fertilizers or add nutrients to.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We should fertilize soil if we want to grow healthy plants.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

ferventadjectiveCharacterized by intense emotion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fervent desire to change society.

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) ↗

ferventlyadverbWith passionate fervor.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Both those for and against are fervently convinced they speak for the great majority of the people.

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) ↗

fervidadjectiveExtremely hot.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Set out...when the fervid heat subsides.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

festiveadjectiveOffering fun and gaiety.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A festive (or festal) occasion.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

fetchingadjectiveVery attractive; capturing interest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fetching new hairstyle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fetishnounExcessive or irrational devotion to some activity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Made a fetish of cleanliness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fevernounIntense nervous anticipation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In a fever of resentment.

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) ↗

feveredadjectiveHighly excited.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fevered imagination.

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) ↗

feverishadjectiveMarked by intense agitation or emotion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Worked at a feverish pace.

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) ↗

feverishlyadverbIn a feverish manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She worked feverishly.

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) ↗

fewadjectiveA quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by `a'; a small but indefinite number.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A few more wagons than usual.

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) ↗

feweradjective(comparative of `few' used with count nouns) quantifier meaning a smaller number of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fewer trains were late.

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) ↗

fewestadjective(superlative of `few' used with count nouns and usually preceded by `the') quantifier meaning the smallest in number.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fewest birds in recent memory.

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

feyadjectiveSuggestive of an elf in strangeness and otherworldliness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fey quality was there, the ability to see the moon at midday.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

fibnounA trivial lie.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He told a fib about eating his spinach.

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

fictionaladjectiveRelated to or involving literary fiction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clever fictional devices.

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) ↗

fictitiousadjectiveAdopted in order to deceive.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fictitious address.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

fiddleverbPlay around with or alter or falsify, usually secretively or dishonestly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The reporter fiddle with the facts.

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) ↗

fiddlingadjective(informal) small and of little importance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fiddling sum of money.

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

fiduciarynounA person who holds assets in trust for a beneficiary.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is illegal for a fiduciary to misappropriate money for personal gain.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

fieldnounA piece of land cleared of trees and usually enclosed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He planted a field of wheat.

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) ↗

fierceadjectiveViolently agitated and turbulent.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fierce thunders roar me their music.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fiercelyadverbIn a physically fierce manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They fought fiercely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fieryadjectiveLike or suggestive of fire.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fiery desert wind.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fifthnounPosition five in a countable series of things.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was fifth out of several hundred runners.

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) ↗

fightnounThe act of fighting; any contest or struggle.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fight broke out at the hockey game.

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) ↗

fightingadjectiveEngaged in or ready for military or naval operations.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Review the fighting forces.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

figmentnounA contrived or fantastic idea.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A figment of the imagination.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

figurativeadjective(used of the meanings of words or text) not literal; using figures of speech.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Figurative language.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

figurativelyadverbIn a figurative sense.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Figuratively speaking,...

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

figurenounA diagram or picture illustrating textual material.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The area covered can be seen from Figure 2.

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) ↗

figuredadjective(of e.g. fabric design) adorned with patterns.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My dress is richly figured.

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) ↗

fileverbPlace in a container for keeping records.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

File these bills, please.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

filingnounPreservation and methodical arrangement as of documents and papers etc.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I have some filing to do.

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

fillverbMake full, also in a metaphorical sense.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fill the child with pride.

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) ↗

filledadjective(usually followed by `with' or used as a combining form) generously supplied with.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A large hall filled with rows of desks.

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

fillingnoun(dentistry) a dental appliance consisting of any of various substances (as metal or plastic) inserted into a prepared cavity in a tooth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An informal British term for `filling' is `stopping'.

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

fillipnounAnything that tends to arouse.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His approval was an added fillip.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

filmnounA form of entertainment that enacts a story by sound and a sequence of images giving the illusion of continuous movement.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The film was shot on location.

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) ↗

filmedadjectiveRecorded on film; made into a movie.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A filmed documentary.

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

filthyadjectiveCharacterized by obscenity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Had a filthy mouth.

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) ↗

finaladjectiveNot to be altered or undone.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The judge's decision is final.

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) ↗

finalitynounThe quality of being final or definitely settled.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The finality of death.

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) ↗

finalizeverbMake final; put the last touches on; put into final form.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's finalize the proposal.

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) ↗

financeverbObtain or provide money for.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can we finance the addition to our home?

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) ↗

financiallyadverbFrom a financial point of view.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This was financially unattractive.

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) ↗

findverbCome upon, as if by accident; meet with.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We find this idea in Plato.

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) ↗

fineadjectiveMinutely precise especially in differences in meaning.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fine distinction.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

finelyadverbIn an elegant manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Finely costumed actors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

fingerverbFeel or handle with the fingers.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Finger the binding of the book.

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) ↗

fingeredadjectiveHaving or resembling a finger or fingers; often used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fingered roots of giant trees.

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) ↗

finishnounA decorative texture or appearance of a surface (or the substance that gives it that appearance).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The boat had a metallic finish.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

finishedadjective(of materials or goods) brought to the desired final state.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A finished product.

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

firenounThe event of something burning (often destructive).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They lost everything in the fire.

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) ↗

fireplacenounAn open recess in a wall at the base of a chimney where a fire can be built.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fireplace was so large you could walk inside it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

firestormnounAn outburst of controversy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The incident triggered a political firestorm.

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) ↗

firewallnoun(colloquial) the application of maximum thrust.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He moved the throttle to the firewall.

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) ↗

firewoodnounWood used for fuel.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They collected and cut their own firewood.

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) ↗

firmadjectiveNot soft or yielding to pressure.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The snow was firm underfoot.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Italian, Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

firmlyadverbWith resolute determination.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We firmly believed it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Italian, Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

firmnessnounThe muscle tone of healthy tissue.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His muscular firmness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Italian, Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

firstadjectivePreceding all others in time or space or degree.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The first day of spring.

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) ↗

firstbornadjectiveFirst in order of birth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The firstborn child.

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) ↗

firsthandadjectiveReceived directly from a source.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Firsthand information.

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) ↗

fiscaladjectiveInvolving financial matters.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fiscal responsibility.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Afrikaans.

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

fiscallyadverbIn financial matters.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fiscally irresponsible.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Afrikaans.

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

fishnounAn animal that lives in water and usually breathes through gills.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A silver fish swam under the bridge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fishyadjectiveNot as expected.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was something fishy about the accident.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

fissionableadjectiveCapable of undergoing nuclear fission.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fissionable material.

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) ↗

fitverbInsert or adjust several objects or people.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you fit the toy into the box?

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) ↗

fitfuladjectiveIntermittently stopping and starting.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fitful (or interrupted) sleep.

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) ↗

fitnessnounThe quality of being suitable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had to prove their fitness for the position.

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) ↗

fittedadjectiveBeing the right size and shape to fit as desired.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He quickly assembled the fitted pieces.

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

fittingadjectiveIn harmony with the spirit of particular persons or occasion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field...It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

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

fixverbPrepare for eating by applying heat.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fix breakfast for the guests, please.

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) ↗

fixedadjectiveIncapable of being changed or moved or undone; e.g. "frozen prices".intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Living on fixed incomes.

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

fixingsnounThe accessories that normally accompany (something or some activity).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An elaborate formal dinner with all the fixings.

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

fixturenounA regular patron.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bum who is a Central Park fixture.

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

flabbergastedadjectiveAs if struck dumb with astonishment and surprise.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flabbergasted aldermen were speechless.

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

flabbyadjectiveOut of condition; not strong or robust; incapable of exertion or endurance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flabby around the middle.

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

flaggingnounA walk of flagstones.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flagging in the garden was quite imaginative.

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.