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Words 3501–3600 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

forcefulnessnounPhysical energy or intensity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A government has not the vitality and forcefulness of a living man.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

forciblyadverbIn a forcible manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Keep in mind the dangers of imposing our own values and prejudices too forcibly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

foreadverbNear or toward the bow of a ship or cockpit of a plane.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The captain went fore (or forward) to check the instruments.

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

forebodingnounA feeling of evil to come.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A steadily escalating sense of foreboding.

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) ↗

forefrontnounThe position of greatest importance or advancement; the leading position in any movement or field.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Cotswolds were once at the forefront of woollen manufacturing in England.

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) ↗

foregoneadjectiveWell in the past; former.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Dreams of foregone times.

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

foreignadjectiveRelating to or originating in or characteristic of another place or part of the world.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

On business in a foreign city.

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) ↗

foremannounA person who exercises control over workers.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

If you want to leave early you have to ask the foreman.

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) ↗

foremostadjectiveRanking above all others.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The foremost figure among marine artists.

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) ↗

forensicadjectiveUsed or applied in the investigation and establishment of facts or evidence in a court of law.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forensic photograph.

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

foreseeableadjectiveCapable of being anticipated.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Foreseeable costs were well within the budget.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

forestedadjectiveCovered with forest.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Efforts to protect forested lands of the northwest.

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) ↗

foreveradverbFor a limitless time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

No one can live forever.

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) ↗

forgeverbCreate by hammering.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forge a pair of tongues.

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) ↗

forgedadjectiveReproduced fraudulently.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A forged twenty dollar bill.

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

forgetfuladjectiveFailing to keep in mind.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forgetful of her responsibilities.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hebrew, 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) ↗

forgiveverbStop blaming or grant forgiveness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She cannot forgive him for forgetting her birthday.

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) ↗

forgivingadjectiveInclined or able to forgive and show mercy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A kindly forgiving nature.

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

forgottenadjectiveNot noticed inadvertently.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was scolded for his forgotten chores.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

forknounThe region of the angle formed by the junction of two branches.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They took the south fork.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

forkedadjectiveHaving two meanings with intent to deceive.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spoke with forked tongue.

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

forlornadjectiveMarked by or showing hopelessness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The last forlorn attempt.

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) ↗

formnounA category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sculpture is a form of art.

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) ↗

formaladjective(of spoken and written language) adhering to traditional standards of correctness and without casual, contracted, and colloquial forms.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The paper was written in formal English.

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) ↗

formalitynounCompliance with formal rules.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Courtroom formality.

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) ↗

formalizedadjectiveConcerned with or characterized by rigorous adherence to recognized forms (especially in religion or art).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Highly formalized plays like `Waiting for Godot'.

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

formallyadverbWith official authorization.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The club will be formally recognized.

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) ↗

formatverbDivide (a disk) into marked sectors so that it may store data.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please format this disk before entering data!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

formationnounAn arrangement of people or things acting as a unit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A defensive formation.

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) ↗

formativeadjectiveForming or capable of forming or molding or fashioning.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A formative influence.

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

formeradjectiveReferring to the first of two things or persons mentioned (or the earlier one or ones of several).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The novel was made into a film in 1943 and again in 1967; I prefer the former version to the latter one.

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) ↗

formidableadjectiveInspiring fear.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The formidable prospect of major surgery.

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) ↗

formidablyadverbIn a formidable manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The constant risk that attends the exchanges of human beings formidably armed.

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) ↗

formulanounSomething regarded as a normative example.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His formula for impressing visitors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

formulatedadjectiveDevised; developed according to an orderly plan.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had well formulated opinions on schooling.

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

formulationnounThe style of expressing yourself.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He suggested a better formulation.

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

fortenounAn asset of special worth or utility.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cooking is his forte.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, Latin, 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) ↗

forthadverbOut into view.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Put my ideas forth.

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) ↗

forthcomingadjectiveAvailable when required or as promised.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Federal funds were not forthcoming.

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) ↗

forthrightadjectiveCharacterized by directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Forthright criticism.

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) ↗

forthwithadverbWithout delay or hesitation; with no time intervening.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An official accused of dishonesty should be suspended forthwith.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

fortnightnounA period of fourteen consecutive days.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Most major tennis tournaments last a fortnight.

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) ↗

fortuitousadjectiveOccurring by happy chance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Profits were enhanced by a fortuitous drop in the cost of raw materials.

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

fortunateadjectiveHaving unexpected good fortune.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fortunate choice.

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) ↗

fortunatelyadverbBy good fortune.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fortunately the weather was good.

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) ↗

fortunenounAn unknown and unpredictable phenomenon that leads to a favorable outcome.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was as if fortune guided his hand.

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) ↗

forwardadjectiveAt or near or directed toward the front.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A forward plunge down the stairs.

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) ↗

forwardingnounThe act of sending on to another destination.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The forwarding of resumes to the personnel department.

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

fosterverbPromote the growth of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Foster our children's well-being and education.

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) ↗

fouladjectiveViolating accepted standards or rules.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Used foul means to gain power.

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) ↗

fouledadjectiveMade dirty or foul.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Breathing air fouled and darkened with factory soot.

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

foulnessnoun(of weather) the badness of the weather.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were wearied with the foulness of the weather.

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) ↗

foundnounFood and lodging provided in addition to money.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They worked for $30 and found.

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) ↗

foundationnounThe basis on which something is grounded.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There is little foundation for his objections.

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

fourfoldadjectiveFour times as great or many.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fourfold increase in the dosage.

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) ↗

foursomenounFour people considered as a unit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The foursome teed off before 9 a.m.

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) ↗

foursquareadjectiveCharacterized by firm and unwavering conviction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A foursquare refusal to yield.

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) ↗

fourthlyadverbIn the fourth place.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fourthly, you must pay the rent on the first of the month.

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) ↗

fractionaladjectiveConstituting or comprising a part or fraction of a possible whole or entirety.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fractional share of the vote.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

fractiousadjectiveUnpredictably difficult in operation; likely to be troublesome.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fractious components of a communication system.

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) ↗

fracturenounBreaking of hard tissue such as bone.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a nasty fracture.

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) ↗

fragileadjectiveEasily broken or damaged or destroyed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fragile porcelain plates.

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) ↗

fragmentnounA piece broken off or cut off of something else.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fragment of rock.

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) ↗

fragmentaryadjectiveConsisting of small disconnected parts.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fragmentary remains.

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) ↗

fragmentationnoun(computer science) the condition of a file that is broken up and stored in many different locations on a magnetic disk.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fragmentation slows system performance because it takes extra time to locate and assemble the parts of the fragmented file.

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) ↗

fragmentedadjectiveHaving been divided; having the unity destroyed.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fragmented coalition.

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

frailadjectivePhysically weak.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An invalid's frail body.

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) ↗

framenounA framework that supports and protects a picture or a mirror.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The frame was much more valuable than the miror it held.

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) ↗

framedadjectiveProvided with a frame.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There were framed snapshots of family and friends on her desk.

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

frameworknounThe underlying structure.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Providing a factual framework for future research.

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) ↗

framingnounFormulation of the plans and important details.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The framing of judicial decrees.

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

frankadjectiveCharacterized by directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tell me what you think--and you may just as well be frank.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, German, Latin, Middle English, Middle High German, Old French, Old High 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) ↗

franticadjectiveExcessively agitated; distraught with fear or other violent emotion.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Frantic with anger and frustration.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fraternaladjectiveLike or characteristic of or befitting a brother.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Close fraternal ties.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

fraternitynounPeople engaged in a particular occupation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The medical fraternity.

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) ↗

fraudulentadjectiveIntended to deceive.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fraudulent scheme to escape paying taxes.

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) ↗

fraughtadjectiveFilled with or attended with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Words fraught with meaning.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

frazzlenounA state of extreme exhaustion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was worn to a frazzle.

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) ↗

freaknounSomeone who is so ardently devoted to something that it resembles an addiction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bodybuilding freak.

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) ↗

freakyadjectiveStrange and somewhat frightening.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The whole experience was really freaky.

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) ↗

freeadjectiveAble to act at will; not hampered; not under compulsion or restraint.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I have an hour free.

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) ↗

freebienounSomething that is free (usually provided as part of a promotional scheme).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The road map was a freebie.

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

freehandadjectiveDone by hand without mechanical aids or devices.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A freehand drawing.

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) ↗

freelyadverbIn a free manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The painting featured freely brushed strokes.

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) ↗

freemasonrynounA natural or instinctive fellowship between people of similar interests.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He enjoyed the freemasonry of the Press.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Frankish, Late 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) ↗

freestandingadjectiveStanding apart; not attached to or supported by anything.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A freestanding bell tower.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

freewheelingadjectiveFree of restraints or rules.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Freewheeling foolishness.

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) ↗

freezenounFixing (of prices or wages etc) at a particular level.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A freeze on hiring.

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) ↗

freightnounThe charge for transporting something by common carrier.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We pay the freight.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

freneticadjectiveExcessively agitated; distraught with fear or other violent emotion.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Frenetic screams followed the accident.

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

frenziedadjectiveAffected with or marked by frenzy or mania uncontrolled by reason.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prosecutor's frenzied denunciation of the accused.

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

frequencynounThe number of occurrences within a given time period.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The frequency of modulation was 40 cycles per second.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

frequentadjectiveHappening often or at short intervals.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Take frequent breaks during a long study session.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

freshadverbVery recently.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are fresh out of tomatoes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old French, Old High 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) ↗

freshlyadverbVery recently.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A freshly cleaned floor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old French, Old High 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) ↗

freshmanadjectiveUsed of a person in the first year of an experience (especially in United States high school or college).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A freshman senator.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old French, Old High 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) ↗

freshnessnounThe property of being pure and fresh (as if newly made); not stale or deteriorated.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The freshness of the air revived him.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old French, Old High 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) ↗

fretverbBe agitated or irritated.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't fret over these small details.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

fretfuladjectiveNervous and unable to relax.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A constant fretful stamping of hooves.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

frictionlessadjectiveLacking all friction.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A perpetual motion machine would have to be frictionless.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

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