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Words 5801–5900 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
nonvolatileadjectiveNot volatilizing readily.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A nonvolatile acid.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

normnounA standard or model or pattern regarded as typical.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The current middle-class norm of two children per family.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

normaladjectiveConforming with or constituting a norm or standard or level or type or social norm; not abnormal.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Normal working hours.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

normalizeverbMake normal or cause to conform to a norm or standard.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Normalize the spelling.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

normativeadjectiveRelating to or dealing with norms.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Normative discipline.

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

northadverbIn a northern direction.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They earn more up north.

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) ↗

northboundadjectiveMoving toward the north.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The northbound lane.

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

northerlyadjectiveSituated in or oriented toward the north.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Going in a northerly direction.

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) ↗

northernadjectiveSituated in or oriented toward the north.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The northern suburbs.

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) ↗

northwardadjectiveMoving toward the north.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The northward flow of traffic.

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) ↗

northwesterlyadjectiveComing from the northwest.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Northwesterly winds.

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) ↗

nosenounThe organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He has a cold in the nose.

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) ↗

nosedivenounA sudden sharp drop or rapid decline.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The stock took a nosedive.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

nosyadjectiveOffensively curious or inquisitive.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He flipped through my letters in his nosy way.

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) ↗

notadverbNegation of a word or group of words.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They are not friends.

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) ↗

notableadjectiveWidely known and esteemed.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A notable historian.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

notablyadverbEspecially; in particular.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Notably in the social sciences, the professors teach too much.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

notationnounA comment or instruction (usually added).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He added a short notation to the address on the envelope.

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

noteverbObserve with care or pay close attention to.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Take note of this chemical reaction.

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) ↗

notedadjectiveWorthy of notice or attention.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A noted increase in the crime rate.

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

noteworthyadjectiveWorthy of notice.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A noteworthy advance in cancer research.

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) ↗

nothingnounA quantity of no importance.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It looked like nothing I had ever seen before.

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) ↗

nothingsnounInconsequential conversation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They traded a few nothings as they parted.

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

noticenounAn announcement containing information about an event.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obituary notice.

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) ↗

noticeableadjectiveCapable or worthy of being perceived.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Noticeable shadows under her eyes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

noticeablyadverbIn a noticeable manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He changed noticeably over the years.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

noticedadjectiveBeing perceived or observed.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An easily noticed effect on the rate of growth.

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

notificationnounA request for payment.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The notification stated the grace period and the penalties for defaulting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

notionnounAn odd or fanciful or capricious idea.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The theatrical notion of disguise is associated with disaster in his stories.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

notionaladjectiveBeing of the nature of a notion or concept.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

To improve notional comprehension.

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) ↗

notoriousadjectiveKnown widely and usually unfavorably.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A notorious gangster.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval Latin.

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

notoriouslyadverbTo a notorious degree.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

European emigres, who notoriously used to repair to the British Museum to write seditious pamphlets.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval Latin.

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

nourishingadjectiveOf or providing nourishment.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Good nourishing stew.

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

nousnounCommon sense.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She has great social nous.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

noveladjectiveOriginal and of a kind not seen before.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The computer produced a completely novel proof of a well-known theorem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

nowadverbIn the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The ship is now listing to port.

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) ↗

nowadaysadverbIn these times.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It is solely by their language that the upper classes nowadays are distinguished.

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) ↗

nowhereadverbNot anywhere; in or at or to no place.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I am going nowhere.

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) ↗

noxiousadjectiveInjurious to physical or mental health.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Noxious chemical wastes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

nubnounThe choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The nub of the story.

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

nuclearadjectiveConstituting or like a nucleus.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The nuclear core of the congregation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

numbadjectiveSo frightened as to be unable to move; stunned or paralyzed with terror; petrified.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Too numb with fear to move.

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

numbernounThe property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a number of chores to do.

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) ↗

numbingadjectiveCausing numbness or insensitivity.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The numbing effect of grief.

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

numeraladjectiveOf or relating to or denoting numbers.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A numeral adjective.

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) ↗

numericaladjectiveMeasured or expressed in numbers.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The numerical superiority of the enemy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Hindi, 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) ↗

numerousadjectiveAmounting to a large indefinite number.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The family was numerous.

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) ↗

nurseverbGive suck to.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You cannot nurse your baby in public in some places.

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) ↗

nurtureverbHelp develop, help grow.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Nurture his talents.

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) ↗

nutritionaladjectiveOf or relating to or providing nutrition.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Nutritional information.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

oathnounA solemn promise, usually invoking a divine witness, regarding your future acts or behavior.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They took an oath of allegiance.

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) ↗

obdurateadjectiveShowing unfeeling resistance to tender feelings.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The child's misery would move even the most obdurate heart.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

obediencenounBehavior intended to please your parents.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Their children were never very strong on obedience.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

obedientadjectiveDutifully complying with the commands or instructions of those in authority.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obedient soldier.

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) ↗

obedientlyadverbIn an obedient manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Obediently she slipped off her right shoe and stocking.

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) ↗

objectionableadjectiveLiable to objection or debate; used of something one might take exception to.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Found the politician's views objectionable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

objectiveadjectiveUndistorted by emotion or personal bias; based on observable phenomena.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Objective evidence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

obligateadjectiveRestricted to a particular condition of life.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obligate anaerobe can survive only in the absence of oxygen.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

obligatedadjectiveCaused by law or conscience to follow a certain course.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt obligated to repay the kindness.

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

obligationnounThe social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.

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) ↗

obligatoryadjectiveMorally or legally constraining or binding.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Attendance is obligatory.

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) ↗

obligeverbProvide a service or favor for someone.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We had to oblige him.

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) ↗

obligingadjectiveShowing a cheerful willingness to do favors for others.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The obliging waiter was in no hurry for us to leave.

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

obliginglyadverbIn accommodation.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Obligingly, he lowered his voice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

obliqueadjectiveSlanting or inclined in direction or course or position--neither parallel nor perpendicular nor right-angled.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The oblique rays of the winter sun.

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

oblivionnounTotal forgetfulness.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He sought the great oblivion of sleep.

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) ↗

obliviousadjective(followed by `to' or `of') lacking conscious awareness of.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Oblivious to the risks she ran.

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) ↗

obscureadjectiveNot clearly understood or expressed.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obscure turn of phrase.

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) ↗

obscuritynounAn obscure and unimportant standing; not well known.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He worked in obscurity for many years.

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) ↗

obsequiousadjectiveAttentive in an ingratiating or servile manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Obsequious shop assistants.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

observableadjectiveCapable of being seen or noticed.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An observable change in behavior.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

observantadjective(of individuals) adhering strictly to laws and rules and customs.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Observant of the speed limit.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

observeverbWatch attentively.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Please observe the reaction of these two chemicals.

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) ↗

observedadjectiveDiscovered or determined by scientific observation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

No explanation for the observed phenomena.

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

obsessedadjectiveHaving or showing excessive or compulsive concern with something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Was absolutely obsessed with the girl.

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

obsessionaladjectiveCharacterized by or constituting an obsession.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The obsessional character of his response.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi.

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

obstaclenounSomething immaterial that stands in the way and must be circumvented or surmounted.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lack of imagination is an obstacle to one's advancement.

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) ↗

obstetricadjectiveOf or relating to or used in or practicing obstetrics.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Obstetric hospital.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

obstinateadjectiveResistant to guidance or discipline.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obstinate child with a violent temper.

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) ↗

obstreperousadjectiveBoisterously and noisily aggressive.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Kept up an obstreperous clamor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

obstructverbShut out from view or get in the way so as to hide from sight.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The trees obstruct my view of the mountains.

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

obstructedadjectiveShut off to passage or view or hindered from action.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An obstructed view.

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

obstructionnounThe act of obstructing.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Obstruction of justice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

obtainverbCome into possession of.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

How did you obtain the visa?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

obtainableadjectiveCapable of being obtained.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Savings of up to 50 percent are obtainable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

obtrusiveadjectiveUndesirably noticeable.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Equally obtrusive was the graffiti.

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) ↗

obtuseadjectiveSlow to learn or understand; lacking intellectual acuity.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was either normally stupid or being deliberately obtuse.

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) ↗

obversenounThe more conspicuous of two alternatives or cases or sides.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The obverse of this issue.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

obviouslyadverbUnmistakably (`plain' is often used informally for `plainly').advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The answer is obviously wrong.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

occasionnounA vaguely specified social event.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An occasion arranged to honor the president.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

occasionaladjectiveOccurring from time to time.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Took an occasional glass of wine.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

occasionallyadverbNow and then or here and there.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was arrogant and occasionally callous.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

occasionsnounSomething you have to do.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He minded his own specialized occasions.

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

occidentaladjectiveDenoting or characteristic of countries of Europe and the western hemisphere.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Occidental civilization.

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) ↗

occultnounSupernatural practices and techniques.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is a student of the occult.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

occupancynounThe act of occupying or taking possession of a building.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Occupation of a building without a certificate of occupancy is illegal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

occupationnounThe act of occupying or taking possession of a building.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Occupation of a building without a certificate of occupancy is illegal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

occupationaladjectiveOf or relating to the activity or business for which you are trained.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Occupational hazard.

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) ↗

occupiedadjectiveHeld or filled or in use.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The wc is occupied.

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

occupyverbAssume, as of positions or roles.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The young prince will soon occupy the throne.

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) ↗

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