THE US ENGLISH PRACTICE BANK

Meet your next word.

Tap to listen. Shuffle to discover. Explore more than 10,000 words with definitions, examples, and a consistent American English voice.

Explore past bee words and study guides →

Pick a speaker to listen, or shuffle a fresh set of 12.

Words 501–600 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

aridadjectiveLacking vitality or spirit; lifeless.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A technically perfect but arid performance of the sonata.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

aristocraticadjectiveBelonging to or characteristic of the nobility or aristocracy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aristocratic bearing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

armedadjectiveHaving arms or arms as specified; used especially in combination.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The many-armed goddess Shiva.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

armorynounA collection of resources.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He dipped into his intellectual armory to find an answer.

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

aromaticadjective(chemistry) of or relating to or containing one or more benzene rings.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An aromatic organic compound.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late 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) ↗

aroundadverbIn the area or vicinity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Waited around for the next flight.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

arousalnounThe act of arousing.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The purpose of art is the arousal of emotions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

arrangeverbPut into a proper or systematic order.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Arrange the books on the shelves in chronological order.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

arrangedadjectiveDisposed or placed in a particular kind of order.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The carefully arranged chessmen.

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

arrangementnounAn organized structure for arranging or classifying.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He changed the arrangement of the topics.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

arraynounAn orderly arrangement.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An array of troops in battle order.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

arrayedadjectiveIn ceremonial attire and paraphernalia.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Professors arrayed in robes.

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

arrearsnounThe state of being behind in payments.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An account in arrears.

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

arrestverbHold back, as of a danger or an enemy; check the expansion or influence of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Arrest the downward trend.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

arrestingadjectiveCommanding attention.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An arresting drawing of people turning into animals.

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

arrivalnounThe act of arriving at a certain place.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They awaited her arrival.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

arrogantadjectiveHaving or showing feelings of unwarranted importance out of overbearing pride.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An arrogant official.

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) ↗

arrogantlyadverbIn an arrogant manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In the old days she had been harsh and stiff ; afraid of her husband and yet arrogantly proud that she had a husband strong and fierce enough to make her afraid.

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) ↗

arsonnounMalicious burning to destroy property.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The British term for arson is fire-raising.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

artnounThe creation of beautiful or significant things.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I was never any good at art.

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) ↗

arterialadjectiveOf or involving or contained in the arteries.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The arterial system.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

artfuladjectiveMarked by skill in achieving a desired end especially with cunning or craft.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An artful choice of metaphors.

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) ↗

artfullyadverbIn an artful manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her foot pointed artfully toward tapering toes.

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) ↗

arthriticnounA person afflicted with arthritis.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The hands of an elderly arthritic.

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

articlenounOne of a class of artifacts.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An article of clothing.

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) ↗

articularadjectiveRelating to or affecting the joints of the body.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The articular surfaces of bones.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

articulateadjectiveExpressing yourself easily or characterized by clear expressive language.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An articulate orator.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

articulationnounExpressing in coherent verbal form.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The articulation of my feelings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

articulatoryadjectiveOf or relating to articulation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Articulatory features.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

artificialadjectiveContrived by art rather than nature.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Artificial flowers.

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) ↗

artificiallyadverbNot according to nature; not by natural means.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Artificially induced conditions.

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) ↗

artisticadjectiveRelating to or characteristic of art or artists.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His artistic background.

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) ↗

artisticallyadverbIn an artistic manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was artistically decorated.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

artsnounStudies intended to provide general knowledge and intellectual skills (rather than occupational or professional skills).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The college of arts and sciences.

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

artworknounPhotographs or other visual representations in a printed publication.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The publisher was responsible for all the artwork in the book.

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) ↗

ascendverbGo back in order of genealogical succession.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Inheritance may not ascend linearly.

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) ↗

ascendantnounPosition or state of being dominant or in control.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That idea was in the ascendant.

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) ↗

ascendingadjectiveMoving or going or growing upward.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ascending plane.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

ascertainedadjectiveDiscovered or determined by scientific observation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Variation in the ascertained flux depends on a number of factors.

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

asceticadjectivePracticing great self-denial.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Be systematically ascetic...do...something for no other reason than that you would rather not do it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

ashamedadjectiveFeeling shame or guilt or embarrassment or remorse.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Felt ashamed of my torn coat.

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) ↗

ashenadjectiveAnemic looking from illness or emotion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A face turned ashen.

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) ↗

ashoreadverbTowards the shore from the water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We invited them ashore.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

asideadverbOn or to one side.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Threw the book aside.

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) ↗

askverbInquire about.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had to ask directions several times.

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) ↗

askanceadjective(used especially of glances) directed to one side with or as if with doubt or suspicion or envy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her eyes with their misted askance look.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

asleepadjectiveIn a state of sleep.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Fell asleep at the wheel.

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) ↗

asperitynounSomething hard to endure.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The asperity of northern winters.

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) ↗

aspirateverbRemove as if by suction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aspirate the wound.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

assaynounAn appraisal of the state of affairs.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They made an assay of the contents.

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) ↗

assembleverbGet people together.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Assemble your colleagues.

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) ↗

assemblynounThe social act of assembling.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They demanded the right of assembly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

assentnounAgreement with a statement or proposal to do something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave his assent eagerly.

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) ↗

assertverbInsist on having one's opinions and rights recognized.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Women should assert themselves more!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

assertedadjectiveConfidently declared to be so.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The asserted value of the painting.

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

assertiveadjectiveAggressively self-assured.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pointing directly at a listener is an assertive act.

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) ↗

assessmentnounAn amount determined as payable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The assessment for repairs outraged the club's membership.

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) ↗

assiduousadjectiveMarked by care and persistent effort.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Assiduous research.

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

assignedadjectiveAppointed to a post or duty.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Assigned personnel.

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

assignmentnounThe act of distributing something to designated places or persons.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The first task is the assignment of an address to each datum.

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) ↗

assimilateverbBecome similar to one's environment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Immigrants often want to assimilate quickly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

assistnounThe activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave me an assist with the housework.

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) ↗

assistancenounThe activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Could not walk without assistance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

assistantnounA person who contributes to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My invaluable assistant.

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

associatenounA person who joins with others in some activity or endeavor.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had to consult his associate before continuing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

associationnounA formal organization of people or groups of people.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He joined the Modern Language Association.

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) ↗

assortedadjectiveConsisting of a haphazard assortment of different kinds.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An arrangement of assorted spring flowers.

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

assortmentnounA collection containing a variety of sorts of things.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A great assortment of cars was on display.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

assumeverbTake to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I assume his train was late.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

assumedadjectiveAdopted in order to deceive.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An assumed cheerfulness.

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

assumingadjectiveExcessively forward.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

On a subject like this it would be too assuming for me to decide.

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

assumptionnounA statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

On the assumption that he has been injured we can infer that he will not to play.

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) ↗

assurancenounFreedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His assurance in his superiority did not make him popular.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

assuredadjectiveMarked by assurance; exhibiting confidence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She paints with an assured hand.

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

assuredlyadverbWithout a doubt.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The grammar schools were assuredly not intended for the gentry alone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

asthmaticnounA person suffering from asthma.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She is a chronic asthmatic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

astonishedadjectiveFilled with the emotional impact of overwhelming surprise or shock.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I stood enthralled, astonished by the vastness and majesty of the cathedral.

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

astonishingadjectiveSurprising greatly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The dog was capable of astonishing tricks.

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

astonishmentnounThe feeling that accompanies something extremely surprising.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He looked at me in astonishment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

astoundingadjectiveSo surprisingly impressive as to stun or overwhelm.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An astounding achievement.

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

astrideadverbWith one leg on each side.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She sat astride the chair.

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) ↗

astringentadjectiveTending to draw together or constrict soft organic tissue.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Astringent cosmetic lotions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

astuteadjectiveMarked by practical hardheaded intelligence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An astute tenant always reads the small print in a lease.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

astutelyadverbIn a shrewd manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He invested his fortune astutely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

asunderadjectiveWidely separated especially in space.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

As wide asunder as pole from pole.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

asymptotenounA straight line that is the limiting value of a curve; can be considered as tangent at infinity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The asymptote of the curve.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

asymptoticadjectiveRelating to or of the nature of an asymptote.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An asymptotic function.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

athleticadjectiveRelating to or befitting athletics or athletes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Athletic facilities.

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) ↗

athleticismnounIntense energy.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His music is characterized by a happy athleticism.

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) ↗

atmospherenounThe layer of gases surrounding Earth or another planet.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Earth’s atmosphere contains the air we breathe.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

Original teaching entry. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

atrociousadjectiveProvoking horror.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An atrocious automobile accident.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

atrophiedadjective(of an organ or body part) diminished in size or strength as a result of disease or injury or lack of use.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Partial paralysis resulted in an atrophied left arm.

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

attachedadjectiveBeing joined in close association.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

All art schools whether independent or attached to universities.

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

attachmentnounFaithful support for a cause or political party or religion.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Attachment to a formal agenda.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

attacknounIntense adverse criticism.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The government has come under attack.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

attainableadjectiveCapable of being attained or accomplished.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Choose an attainable goal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

attainedadjectiveAchieved or reached.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The actual attained achievement test score.

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

attainmentnounArrival at a new stage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His attainment of puberty was delayed by malnutrition.

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) ↗

attemptnounThe act of attacking.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They made an attempt on his life.

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) ↗

attendverbTake charge of or deal with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I must attend to this matter.

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) ↗

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.