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Words 3401–3500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

flagrantadjectiveConspicuously and outrageously bad or reprehensible.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flagrant violation of human rights.

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) ↗

flagrantlyadverbIn a flagrant manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is flagrantly disregarding the law.

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) ↗

flagshipnounThe chief one of a related group.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is their flagship newspaper.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

flairnounA natural talent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He has a flair for mathematics.

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) ↗

flaknounIntense adverse criticism.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't give me any flak.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German.

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

flakeverbForm into flakes.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The substances started to flake.

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) ↗

flamboyantadjectiveElaborately or excessively ornamented.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flamboyant handwriting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

flamboyantlyadverbIn a fancy colorful manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He dresses rather flamboyantly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

flameverbBe in flames or aflame.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sky seemed to flame in the Hawaiian sunset.

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) ↗

flanknounThe side of military or naval formation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They attacked the enemy's right flank.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

flapnounAny broad thin and limber covering attached at one edge; hangs loose or projects freely.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He wrote on the flap of the envelope.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

flarenounA shape that spreads outward.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The skirt had a wide flare.

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

flaringadjectiveStreaming or flapping or spreading wide as if in a current of air.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ran quickly, her flaring coat behind her.

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

flashnounA sudden brilliant understanding.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a flash of intuition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

flatadjectiveHaving a surface without slope, tilt in which no part is higher or lower than another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Skirts sewn with fine flat seams.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

flatlyadverbIn an unqualified manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He flatly denied the charges.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

flatnessnounA deficiency in flavor.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It needed lemon juice to sharpen the flatness of the dried lentils.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

flattenverbMake flat or flatter.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flatten your stomach with these exercises.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

flatteringadjectiveShowing or representing to advantage.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A flattering color.

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

flauntnounThe act of displaying something ostentatiously.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His behavior was an outrageous flaunt.

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

flavorlessadjectiveLacking taste or flavor or tang.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flavorless supermarket tomatoes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

flawnounAn imperfection in an object or machine.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A flaw caused the crystal to shatter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, Middle English, Middle Low German, Old Norse, 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) ↗

flawlessadjectiveWithout a flaw.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A flawless gemstone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, Middle English, Middle Low German, Old English, Old Norse, 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) ↗

fledglingadjectiveYoung and inexperienced.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fledgling enterprise.

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) ↗

fleetadjectiveMoving very fast.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fleet scurrying of squirrels.

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) ↗

fleshnounAlternative names for the body of a human being.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

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) ↗

flexnounThe act of flexing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave his biceps a flex to impress the ladies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

flexibilitynounThe quality of being adaptable or variable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He enjoyed the flexibility of his working arrangement.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

flexibleadjectiveAble to flex; able to bend easily.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Slim flexible birches.

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) ↗

flexiblyadverbWith flexibility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`Come whenever you are free,' he said flexibly.

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) ↗

flicknounA light sharp contact (usually with something flexible).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He felt the flick of a whip.

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

flightnounThe act of escaping physically.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His flight was an indication of his guilt.

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) ↗

flightyadjectiveGuided by whim and fancy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flighty young girls.

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) ↗

flimsyadjectiveLacking solidity or strength.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flimsy construction.

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) ↗

flindersnounBits and splinters and fragments.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It would have shattered in flinders long before it did that damage.

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

flipverbLightly throw to see which side comes up.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I don't know what to do--I may as well flip a coin!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

flitnounA secret move (to avoid paying debts).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They did a moonlight flit.

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) ↗

floatingadjectiveBorne up by or suspended in a liquid.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ship is still floating.

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

floodnounAn overwhelming number or amount.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A flood of requests.

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) ↗

floodedadjectiveCovered with water.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A flooded bathroom.

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

floornounThe inside lower horizontal surface (as of a room, hallway, tent, or other structure).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We spread our sleeping bags on the dry floor of the tent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

flopnounThe act of throwing yourself down.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He landed on the bed with a great flop.

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

floppynounA small plastic magnetic disk enclosed in a stiff envelope with a radial slit; used to store data or programs for a microcomputer.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Floppy disks are noted for their relatively slow speed and small capacity and low price.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

floranounAll the plant life in a particular region or period.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flora of southern California.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

floraladjectiveResembling or made of or suggestive of flowers.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An unusual floral design.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

floridadjectiveElaborately or excessively ornamented.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The senator's florid speech.

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

floristnounSomeone who grows and deals in flowers.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The florist made up an attractive bouquet.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

flourishnounA showy gesture.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She entered with a great flourish.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

flourishingadjectiveVery lively and profitable.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flourishing businesses.

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

flownounDominant course (suggestive of running water) of successive events or ideas.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flow of thought.

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) ↗

floweringnounA developmental process.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The flowering of antebellum culture.

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

fluencynounPowerful and effective language.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fluency in spoken and written English is essential.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

fluentlyadverbIn a fluent manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She speaks French fluently.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

fluidadjectiveSubject to change; variable.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fluid situation fraught with uncertainty.

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) ↗

fluiditynounA changeable quality.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A charming Oriental fluidity of manner.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

flurrynounA light brief snowfall and gust of wind (or something resembling that).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a flurry of chicken feathers.

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

flushadverbSquarely or solidly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Hit him flush in the face.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

flushedadjective(especially of the face) reddened or suffused with or as if with blood from emotion or exertion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Flushed (or crimson) with embarrassment.

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

fluxnounIn constant change.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His opinions are in flux.

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

flyverbTransport by aeroplane.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We fly flowers from the Caribbean to North America.

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) ↗

flyingadjectiveMoving swiftly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fast-flying planes.

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) ↗

foamnounA mass of small bubbles formed in or on a liquid.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beer had a thick head of foam.

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) ↗

foamyadjectiveEmitting or filled with bubbles as from carbonation or fermentation.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Foamy (or frothy) beer.

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) ↗

focusnounThe concentration of attention or energy on something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The focus of activity shifted to molecular biology.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

focusedadjective(of light rays) converging on a point.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Focused light rays can set something afire.

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

foilnounA piece of thin and flexible sheet metal.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The photographic film was wrapped in foil.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

foiledadjectiveDisappointingly unsuccessful.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their foiled attempt to capture Calais.

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

foldverbBend or lay so that one part covers the other.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fold up the newspaper.

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) ↗

foldingnounThe process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Understanding protein folding is the next step in deciphering the genetic code.

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

foliateadjective(often used as a combining form) having or resembling a leaf or having a specified kind or number of leaves.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`foliate' is combined with the prefix `tri' to form the word `trifoliate'.

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

folionounA book (or manuscript) consisting of large sheets of paper folded in the middle to make two leaves or four pages.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The first folio of Shakespeare's plays.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

folknounPeople in general (often used in the plural).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They're just country folk.

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) ↗

folksnounYour parents.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He wrote to his folks every day.

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

folksyadjectiveVery informal and familiar.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A folksy radio commentator.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

followverbTo travel behind, go after, come after.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please follow the guide through the museum.

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) ↗

followingadjectiveAbout to be mentioned or specified.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The following items.

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

follynounThe quality of being rash and foolish.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Trying to drive through a blizzard is the height of folly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

fondadjectiveHaving or displaying warmth or affection.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fond of his nephew.

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) ↗

fondlyadverbWith fondness; with love.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She spoke to her children fondly.

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) ↗

fondnessnounA predisposition to like something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a fondness for whiskey.

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) ↗

foolingadjectiveCharacterized by a feeling of irresponsibility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A broken back is nothing to be casual about; it is no fooling matter.

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

foolishadjectiveDevoid of good sense or judgment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A foolish decision.

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) ↗

foolishlyadverbWithout good sense or judgment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He acted foolishly when he agreed to come.

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) ↗

foolishnessnounThe quality of being rash and foolish.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Adjusting to an insane society is total foolishness.

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) ↗

foolproofadjectiveNot liable to failure.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A foolproof identification system.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

footnounThe part of the leg of a human being below the ankle joint.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Armored from head to foot.

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) ↗

footagenounFilm that has been shot.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He edited the news footage.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

footernoun(used only in combinations) the height or length of something in feet.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is a six-footer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

footholdnounAn initial accomplishment that opens the way for further developments.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They are presently attempting to gain a foothold in the Russian market.

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) ↗

footingnounStatus with respect to the relations between people or groups.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

On a friendly footing.

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) ↗

footlooseadjectiveFree to go or do as one pleases.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A footloose young man eager to see the big city.

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) ↗

footprintnounThe area taken up by some object.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The computer had a desktop footprint of 10 by 16 inches.

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) ↗

footworknounSkillful maneuvering or dealing.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She needs some fancy footwork to cover all those lies.

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) ↗

forageverbWander and feed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The animals forage in the woods.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

forbidverbCommand against.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I forbid you to call me late at night.

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) ↗

forbiddingadjectiveThreatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forbidding thunderclouds.

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

forcenounA powerful effect or influence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The force of his eloquence easily persuaded them.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

forcedadjectiveProduced by or subjected to forcing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forced-air heating.

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

forcefuladjectiveCharacterized by or full of force or strength (often but not necessarily physical).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A forceful speaker.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

forcefullyadverbWith full force.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are seeing this film too late to feel its original impact forcefully.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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.