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Words 4801–4900 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

jabnounA sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He warned me with a jab with his finger.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

jacknounA small worthless amount.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You don't know jack.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

jadedadjectiveDulled by surfeit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The amoral, jaded, bored upper classes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

jaggedadjectiveHaving a sharply uneven surface or outline.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jagged outline of the crags.

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

jamverbInterfere with or prevent the reception of signals.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jam the Voice of America.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

jammedadjectiveFilled to capacity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A suitcase jammed with dirty clothes.

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

janglenounA metallic sound.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jangle of spurs.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

jarringadjectiveMaking or causing a harsh and irritating sound.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jarring noise of the iron gate scraping on the sidewalk.

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

jaundicedadjectiveShowing or affected by prejudice or envy or distaste.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Takes a jaundiced view of societies and clubs.

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) ↗

jauntilyadverbIn a jaunty fashionable manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His hat sat jauntily on his full brown hair.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

jauntyadjectiveHaving a cheerful, lively, and self-confident air.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Walked with a jaunty step.

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

jazznounEmpty rhetoric or insincere or exaggerated talk.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't give me any of that jazz.

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

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

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jealous of his success and covetous of his possessions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

jealouslyadverbWith jealousy; in an envious manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He looked at his friend's new car jealously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

jealousynounZealous vigilance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cherish their official political freedom with fierce jealousy.

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) ↗

jejuneadjectiveDisplaying or suggesting a lack of maturity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jejune responses to our problems.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

jeremiadnounA long and mournful complaint.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A jeremiad against any form of government.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Hebrew, 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) ↗

jestnounA humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He laughed unpleasantly at his own jest.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

jiggleverbMove to and fro.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't jiggle your finger while the nurse is putting on the bandage!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

jiltverbCast aside capriciously or unfeelingly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jilt a lover or a bride.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Scots.

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

jiltedadjectiveRebuffed (by a lover) without warning.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jilted at the altar.

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

jimmynounA short crowbar.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In Britain they call a jimmy and jemmy.

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

jinglenounA metallic sound.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jingle of coins.

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

jobnounA specific piece of work required to be done as a duty or for a specific fee.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The job of repairing the engine took several hours.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

joblessadjectiveNot having a job.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jobless transients.

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) ↗

jockeynounAn operator of some vehicle or machine or apparatus.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He's a truck jockey.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

jognounA sharp change in direction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a jog in the road.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

joinverbCause to become joined or linked.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Join these two parts so that they fit together.

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) ↗

joiningnounThe act of bringing two things into contact (especially for communication).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The joining of hands around the table.

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

jointadjectiveUnited or combined.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A joint session of Congress.

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) ↗

jointlyadverbIn collaboration or cooperation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This paper was written jointly.

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) ↗

jokenounA humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He told a very funny joke.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

jokernounAn inconspicuous clause in a document or bill that affects its meaning in a way that is not immediately apparent.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

When I demanded my money he showed me the joker in the contract.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

jollyadjectiveFull of or showing high-spirited merriment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Jolly old Saint Nick.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

joltnounA sudden jarring impact.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The door closed with a jolt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

joltedadjectiveDisturbed psychologically as if by a physical jolt or shock.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Retrieved his named from her jolted memory.

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

jostleverbMake one's way by jostling, pushing, or shoving.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We had to jostle our way to the front of the platform.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

journeynounTravel from one place to another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their journey took them across the country.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

jovialadjectiveFull of or showing high-spirited merriment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A jovial old gentleman.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

joyfuladjectiveFull of or producing joy.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Make a joyful noise.

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) ↗

joyousadjectiveFull of or characterized by joy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt a joyous abandon.

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) ↗

judgeverbForm a critical opinion of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I cannot judge some works of modern art.

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) ↗

judgmentnounAn opinion formed by judging something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was reluctant to make his judgment known.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

judgmentaladjectiveDepending on judgment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A judgmental error.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

judicialadjectiveDecreed by or proceeding from a court of justice.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A judicial decision.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

judiciallyadverbIn a judicial manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Judicially controlled process.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

judiciousadjectiveMarked by the exercise of good judgment or common sense in practical matters.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Judicious use of one's money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

juggleverbDeal with simultaneously.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She had to juggle her job and her children.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

jugularnounA vital part that is vulnerable to attack.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He always goes for the jugular.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

juicenounElectric current.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

When the wiring was finished they turned on the juice.

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) ↗

jumpverbMove forward by leaps and bounds.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you jump over the fence?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

jumpernounA person who jumps.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jumper's parachute opened.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

jumpstartnounStarting an automobile engine that has a weak battery by means of jumper cables to another car.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My battery was dead so I had to get a jumpstart from my neighbor.

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

juncturenounA crisis situation or point in time when a critical decision must be made.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

At that juncture he had no idea what to do.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

juniornounTerm of address for a disrespectful and annoying male.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Look here, junior, it's none of your business.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

jurisdictionnoun(law) the right and power to interpret and apply the law.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Courts having jurisdiction in this district.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

jurisdictionaladjectiveRestricted to the geographic area under a particular jurisdiction.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jurisdictional limits of a state.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

justadverbIndicating exactness or preciseness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It has just enough salt.

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) ↗

justifiablyadverbWith good reason.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is justifiably bitter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

justificationnounSomething (such as a fact or circumstance) that shows an action to be reasonable or necessary.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He considered misrule a justification for revolution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

justifyverbAdjust the spaces between words.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Justify the margins.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

juttingadjectiveExtending out above or beyond a surface or boundary.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The jutting limb of a tree.

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

juvenileadjectiveDisplaying or suggesting a lack of maturity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their behavior was juvenile.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

juxtaposedadjectivePlaced side by side often for comparison.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Juxtaposed pictures.

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

juxtapositionnounThe placing of things close together for comparison.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The juxtaposition of old and new buildings was striking.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin and French elements

Original teaching entry.

kafkaesqueadjectiveCharacterized by surreal distortion and a sense of impending danger.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The kafkaesque terror of the endless interrogations.

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

keenlyadverbIn a keen and discriminating manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was keenly aware of his own shortcomings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

keepverbRetain possession of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can I keep my old stuffed animals?

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) ↗

keepernounSomeone in charge of other people.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Am I my brother's keeper?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

keepingnounThe responsibility of a guardian or keeper.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He left his car in my keeping.

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

keynounSomething crucial for explaining.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The key to development is economic integration.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

keyedadjectiveFitted with or secured by a key.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A keyed instrument.

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

keylessadjectiveLacking or not requiring a key.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A keyless lock operated by a series of pushbuttons.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

keystonenounA central cohesive source of support and stability.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The keystone of campaign reform was the ban on soft money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

kickverbStrike with the foot.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Kick the door down.

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) ↗

kickingnounThe act of delivering a blow with the foot.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The team's kicking was excellent.

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

kickoffnounA start given to contestants.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I was there with my parents at the kickoff.

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

kidneynounEither of two bean-shaped excretory organs that filter wastes (especially urea) from the blood and excrete them and water in urine.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Urine passes out of the kidney through ureters to the bladder.

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) ↗

kilogramnounOne thousand grams; the basic unit of mass adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A kilogram is approximately 2.2 pounds.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

kindadjectiveHaving or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Kind to sick patients.

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) ↗

kindlyadverbIn a kind manner or out of kindness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He spoke kindly to the boy.

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) ↗

kineticadjectiveSupplying motive force.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The complex civilization of which Rome was the kinetic center.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

kingnounPreeminence in a particular category or group or field.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The lion is the king of beasts.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

kingdomnounA domain in which something is dominant.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The untroubled kingdom of reason.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

kinglyadjectiveHaving the rank of or resembling or befitting a king.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Symbolizing kingly power.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

kingmakernounAn important person who can bring leaders to power through the exercise of political influence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Earl of Warwick was the first kingmaker.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

kinshipnounA close connection marked by community of interests or similarity in nature or character.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Anthropology's kinship with the humanities.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

kissnounA light glancing touch.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a brief kiss of their hands in passing.

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) ↗

knacknoun★ National bee winning word · 1932A special way of doing something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a special knack for getting into trouble.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

National bee winning word · 1932 · Source ↗

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

knifelikeadjectiveHaving a sharp or distinct edge.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A narrow knifelike profile.

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) ↗

knightlyadjectiveCharacteristic of the time of chivalry and knighthood in the Middle Ages.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The knightly years.

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) ↗

knittedadjectiveMade by intertwining threads in a series of connected loops rather than by weaving.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A hand-knitted sweater.

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

knocknounA vigorous blow.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sudden knock floored him.

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) ↗

knockdownadjective(furniture) easily assembled and dismantled.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I bought a knockdown chest at the do-it-yourself store.

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) ↗

knotnounA tight cluster of people or things.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A small knot of women listened to his sermon.

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) ↗

knottedadjectiveTied with a knot.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His carefully knotted necktie.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

knottyadjectiveMaking great mental demands; hard to comprehend or solve or believe.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I faced the knotty problem of what to have for breakfast.

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) ↗

knowverbBe cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I want to know who is winning the 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) ↗

knowingadjectiveHighly educated; having extensive information or understanding.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Knowing instructors.

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) ↗

knowledgenounInformation and understanding gained by learning.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Reading expands your knowledge of the world.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English

Original teaching 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.