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Words 5001–5100 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
legatoadverbConnecting the notes; in music.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Play this legato, please.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

legendaryadjectiveSo celebrated as to having taken on the nature of a legend.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The legendary exploits of the arctic trailblazers.

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) ↗

leggedadjectiveHaving legs of a specified kind or number.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Four-legged animals.

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) ↗

legibleadjective(of handwriting, print, etc.) capable of being read or deciphered.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Legible handwriting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

legionnounA large military unit.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The French Foreign Legion.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

legislateverbMake laws, bills, etc. or bring into effect by legislation.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We cannot legislate how people spend their free time.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

legislativeadjectiveRelating to a legislature or composed of members of a legislature.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Legislative council.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

legitimateadjectiveAuthorized, sanctioned by, or in accordance with law.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A legitimate government.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

legitimatelyadverbIn a manner acceptable to common custom.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You cannot do this legitimately!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

leglessadjectiveNot having legs.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A legless man in a wheelchair.

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) ↗

legsnounStaying power.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

That old Broadway play really has legs.

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

leisurenounTime available for ease and relaxation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His job left him little leisure.

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) ↗

leisurelyadjectiveNot hurried or forced.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

At a leisurely (or easygoing) pace.

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) ↗

lendverbGive temporarily; let have for a limited time.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I will lend you my car.

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) ↗

lengthnounThe linear extent in space from one end to the other; the longest dimension of something that is fixed in place.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The length of the table was 5 feet.

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) ↗

lengthenverbBecome long or longer.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In Spring, the days lengthen.

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) ↗

lengthenedadjectiveDrawn out or made longer spatially.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lengthened skirts are fashionable this year.

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

lengthwiseadverbIn the direction of the length.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He cut the paper lengthwise.

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) ↗

lengthyadjectiveRelatively long in duration; tediously protracted.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A lengthy visit from her mother-in-law.

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) ↗

lenientlyadverbIn a permissively lenient manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He felt incensed that Tarrant should have been treated so leniently given his crime.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

lensnoun(metaphor) a channel through which something can be seen or understood.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The writer is the lens through which history can be seen.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

lessadjective(comparative of `little' usually used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning not as great in amount or degree.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Of less importance.

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) ↗

lesseradjectiveOf less size or importance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The lesser anteater.

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) ↗

lessonnounA task assigned for individual study.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He did the lesson for today.

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) ↗

letverbActively cause something to happen.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I let it be known that I was not interested.

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) ↗

lethaladjectiveOf an instrument of certain death.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A lethal injection.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

lethargicadjectiveDeficient in alertness or activity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Bullfrogs became lethargic with the first cold nights.

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

letternounA written message addressed to a person or organization.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Mailed an indignant letter to the editor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

lettersnounThe literary culture.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

This book shows American letters at its best.

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

letupnounA pause during which things are calm or activities are diminished.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

There was never a letup in the noise.

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

levelnounA position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A high level of care is required.

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) ↗

leveragenounStrategic advantage; power to act effectively.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Relatively small groups can sometimes exert immense political leverage.

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

leviathannounThe largest or most massive thing of its kind.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a leviathan among redwoods.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hebrew, Late 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) ↗

levitateverbBe suspended in the air, as if in defiance of gravity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The guru claimed that he could levitate.

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

lewdadjectiveSuggestive of or tending to moral looseness.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lewd whisperings of a dirty old man.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

lexicaladjectiveOf or relating to words.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lexical decision task.

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

liableadjectiveAt risk of or subject to experiencing something usually unpleasant.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She is liable to forget.

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

liaisonnounA channel for communication between groups.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He provided a liaison with the guerrillas.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

liberaladjectiveShowing or characterized by broad-mindedness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A liberal newspaper.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

liberallyadverbFreely in a nonliteral manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He embellished his stories liberally.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

liberatedadjectiveFree from traditional social restraints.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A liberated lifestyle.

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

liberationnounThe attempt to achieve equal rights or status.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She worked for women's liberation.

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) ↗

libertynounFreedom of choice.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Liberty of opinion.

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) ↗

librarynounA place where books are kept for people to use.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We borrowed a book about planets from the library.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

librationnoun(astronomy) a real or apparent slow oscillation of a moon or satellite.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The libration of the moon.

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

licensenounExcessive freedom; lack of due restraint.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

When liberty becomes license dictatorship is near.

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) ↗

licensedadjectiveGiven official approval to act.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Licensed pharmacist.

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

lickedadjectiveHaving been got the better of.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I'm pretty beat up but I don't feel licked yet.

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

lickingnounAn unsuccessful ending to a struggle or contest.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They suffered a convincing licking.

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

lidnounA movable top or cover (hinged or separate) for closing the opening at the top of a box, chest, jar, pan, etc.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He raised the piano lid.

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) ↗

lieverbTell an untruth; pretend with intent to deceive.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't lie to your parents.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

lifenounThe experience of being alive; the course of human events and activities.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He could no longer cope with the complexities of life.

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) ↗

lifebloodnounAn essential or life-giving force.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Water is the lifeblood of India.

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) ↗

lifelessadjectiveDestitute or having been emptied of life or living beings.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

After the dance the littered and lifeless ballroom echoed hollowly.

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) ↗

lifelinenounSupport that enables people to survive or to continue doing something (often by providing an essential connection).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The airlift provided a lifeline for Berlin.

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) ↗

lifelongadjectiveContinuing through life.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

From lifelong habit.

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) ↗

lifesavingnounSaving the lives of drowning persons.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He took a course in lifesaving.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

liftverbTake hold of something and move it to a different location.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lift the box onto the table.

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) ↗

lightnoun(physics) electromagnetic radiation that can produce a visual sensation.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The light was filtered through a soft glass window.

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) ↗

lightedadjectiveProvided with artificial light.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A well-lighted stairwell.

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

lightenverbAlleviate or remove (pressure or stress) or make less oppressive.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lighten the burden of caring for her elderly parents.

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) ↗

lightingnounHaving abundant light or illumination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

As long as the lighting was good.

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) ↗

lightlyadverbWithout good reason.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

One cannot say such things lightly.

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) ↗

lightnessnounThe property of being comparatively small in weight.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The lightness of balsa wood.

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) ↗

lightweightadjectiveWeighing relatively little compared with another item or object of similar use.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A lightweight fabric.

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) ↗

likableadjectiveEasy to like; agreeable.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An attractive and likable young man.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

likeverbPrefer or wish to do something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Would you like to come along to the movies?

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) ↗

likedadjectiveFound pleasant or attractive; often used as a combining form.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A well-liked teacher.

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

likelyadjectiveHas a good chance of being the case or of coming about.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She is likely to forget.

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) ↗

likewiseadverbIn like or similar manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Some people have little power to do good, and have likewise little strength to resist evil.

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) ↗

likingnounA feeling of pleasure and enjoyment.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She developed a liking for gin.

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) ↗

lilliputianadjective(informal) small and of little importance.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Our worries are lilliputian compared with those of countries that are at war.

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

limbnounThe graduated arc that is attached to an instrument for measuring angles.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The limb of the sextant.

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) ↗

limberadjective(used of e.g. personality traits) readily adaptable.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A limber imagination.

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

limblessadjectiveHaving no limbs.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A snake is a limbless reptile.

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) ↗

limelightnounA focus of public attention.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He enjoyed being in the limelight.

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

limitnounThe greatest possible degree of something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

To the limit of his ability.

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) ↗

limitationnounThe greatest amount of something that is possible or allowed.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It is growing rapidly with no limitation in sight.

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) ↗

limitedadjectiveSmall in range or scope.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A limited circle of friends.

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

limitlessadjectiveWithout limits in extent or size or quantity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Limitless vastness of our solar system.

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) ↗

limpadjectiveLacking in strength or firmness or resilience.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Gave a limp handshake.

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) ↗

linchpinnounA central cohesive source of support and stability.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is the linchpin of this firm.

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) ↗

linenounA formation of people or things one beside another.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They were arrayed in line of battle.

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) ↗

lineagenounThe descendants of one individual.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His entire lineage has been warriors.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

linearadjectiveOf or in or along or relating to a line; involving a single dimension.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A linear measurement.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

linearlyadverbIn a linear manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Linearly polarized radiation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

linedadjectiveBordered by a line of things.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tree lined streets.

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

linernoun(baseball) a hit that flies straight out from the batter.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The batter hit a liner to the shortstop.

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) ↗

lingonounA characteristic language of a particular group (as among thieves).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They don't speak our lingo.

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) ↗

linguisticadjectiveConsisting of or related to language.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A linguistic atlas.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

linguisticallyadverbWith respect to the science of linguistics.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Linguistically interesting data.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, German, 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) ↗

lippedadjectiveHaving a lip or lips.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A virgin purest lipped.

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) ↗

liquefiedadjectiveReduced to a liquid state.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Liquefied petroleum gas.

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

liquefyverbMake (a solid substance) liquid, as by heating.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Liquefy the silver.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

liquidadjectiveClear and bright.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Eyes shining with a liquid luster.

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) ↗

liquidateverbSettle the affairs of by determining the debts and applying the assets to pay them off.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Liquidate a company.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

listnounThe property possessed by a line or surface that departs from the vertical.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The ship developed a list to starboard.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

listenverbHear with intention.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Listen to the sound of this cello.

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) ↗

listeningnounThe act of hearing attentively.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You can learn a lot by just listening.

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) ↗

listlessadjectiveLacking zest or vivacity.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was listless and bored.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

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