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 5901–6000 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

occurverbTo be found to exist.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Precious stones occur in a large area in Brazil.

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) ↗

occurrencenounAn instance of something occurring.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A disease of frequent occurrence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

oceannounA very large body of salt water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ocean stretched beyond the horizon.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Greek, through Latin and French

Original teaching entry.

oceanicadjectiveResembling the ocean in apparent limitlessness in extent or degree.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The oceanic violence of his rage.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

ocularadjectiveOf or relating to or resembling the eye.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An ocular spot is a pigmented organ or part believed to be sensitive to light.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

oddadjectiveNot easily explained.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is odd that his name is never mentioned.

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) ↗

oddsnounThe ratio by which one better's wager is greater than that of another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He offered odds of two to one.

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

odiousadjectiveUnequivocally detestable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Consequences odious to those you govern.

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) ↗

odorousadjectiveHaving a natural fragrance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The odorous air of the orchard.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

oeuvrenounThe total output of a writer or artist (or a substantial part of it).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He studied the entire Wagnerian oeuvre.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

offadverbAt a distance in space or time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The boat was 5 miles off (or away).

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) ↗

offendverbAct in disregard of laws, rules, contracts, or promises.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Offend all laws of humanity.

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

offendedadjectiveHurt or upset.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She looked offended.

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

offernounThe verbal act of offering.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A generous offer of assistance.

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) ↗

offhandadjectiveCasually thoughtless or inconsiderate.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She treated most men with offhand contempt.

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) ↗

officenounPlace of business where professional or clerical duties are performed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He rented an office in the new building.

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) ↗

officernounAny person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An officer is responsible for the lives of his men.

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) ↗

officialnounSomeone who administers the rules of a game or sport.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The golfer asked for an official who could give him a ruling.

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) ↗

officiallyadverbIn an official role.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Officially responsible.

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) ↗

offingnounThe part of the sea that can be seen from the shore and is beyond the anchoring area.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a ship in the offing.

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) ↗

offsetverbCompensate for or counterbalance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Offset deposits and withdrawals.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

offshoreadverbAway from shore; away from land.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cruising three miles offshore.

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) ↗

offspringnounThe immediate descendants of a person.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was the mother of many offspring.

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) ↗

offstageadjectiveConcealed from public view or attention.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Offstage political meetings.

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) ↗

oftenadverbMany times at short intervals.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We often met over a cup of coffee.

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) ↗

oiledadjectiveTreated with oil.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Oiled country roads.

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

oilyadjectiveContaining an unusual amount of grease or oil.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Oily fried potatoes.

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) ↗

okayadverbIn a satisfactory or adequate manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She'll do okay on her own.

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

oldadjective(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His mother is very old.

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) ↗

olderadjectiveSkilled through long experience.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The older soldiers.

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

oleaginousadjectiveUnpleasantly and excessively suave or ingratiating in manner or speech.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Oleaginous hypocrisy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

oligarchynounA political system governed by a few people.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The big cities were notoriously in the hands of the oligarchy of local businessmen.

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

olympianadjectiveFar beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Olympian efforts to save the city from bankruptcy.

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

omeganounThe ending of a series or sequence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

omennounA sign of something about to happen.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He looked for an omen before going into battle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

ominousadjectiveThreatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ominous rumblings of discontent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

ominouslyadverbIn an ominous manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sun darkened ominously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

onceadverbOn one occasion.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Once I ran into her.

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) ↗

onenounThe smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They had lunch at one.

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) ↗

onerousadjectiveNot easily borne; wearing.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My duties weren't onerous; I only had to greet the guests.

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) ↗

ongoingadjectiveCurrently happening.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An ongoing economic crisis.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Chinese, Japanese, 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) ↗

onlyadverbAnd nothing more.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was only a child.

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) ↗

onomasticadjectiveOf or related to onomastics.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He published a collection of his onomastic essays.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

onomatopoeianounThe formation of a word that imitates a sound.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The word buzz is an example of onomatopoeia.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Greek

Original teaching entry.

onsetnounThe beginning or early stages.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The onset of pneumonia.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Japanese, Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

onshoreadverbOn or toward the land.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were living onshore.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

onstageadverbOn the stage.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was time for her to go onstage.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

onwardadverbIn a forward direction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Moved onward into the forest.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Japanese, 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) ↗

opalineadjectiveHaving a play of lustrous rainbow colors.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A milky opalescent (or opaline) luster.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opaqueadjectiveNot transmitting or reflecting light or radiant energy; impenetrable to sight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Opaque windows of the jail.

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) ↗

openadjectiveAffording unobstructed entrance and exit; not shut or closed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They left the door open.

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) ↗

openedadjectiveUsed of mouth or eyes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His mouth slightly opened.

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

openernounThe first event in a series.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She played Chopin for her opener.

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) ↗

openingadjectiveFirst or beginning.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The play's opening scene.

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

openlyadverbIn an open way.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He openly flaunted his affection for his sister.

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) ↗

opennessnounWithout obstructions to passage or view.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The openness of the prairies.

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) ↗

operableadjectiveCapable of being treated by surgical operation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An operable cancer.

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

operantadjectiveHaving influence or producing an effect.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An operant conscience.

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

operatingadjectiveInvolved in a kind of operation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The operating conditions of the oxidation pond.

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

operationnounThe state of being in effect or being operative.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That rule is no longer in operation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

operationaladjectivePertaining to a process or series of actions for achieving a result.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Operational difficulties.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

operationallyadverbIn respect to operation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Reported the machine operationally satisfactory.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

operativeadjectiveBeing in force or having or exerting force.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Operative regulations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

operatornounAn agent that operates some apparatus or machine.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The operator of the switchboard.

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) ↗

ophthalmicadjectiveOf or relating to ophthalmology.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ophthalmic surgery.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opinionnounA personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My opinion differs from yours.

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) ↗

opponentadjectiveCharacterized by active hostility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Opponent (or opposing) armies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

opportuneadjectiveSuitable or at a time that is suitable or advantageous especially for a particular purpose.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An opportune arrival.

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) ↗

opportunitynounA chance to do something useful or desired.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The trip was an opportunity to learn about wildlife.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opposeverbBe against; express opposition to.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We oppose the ban on abortion.

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) ↗

opposedadjectiveBeing in opposition or having an opponent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Two bitterly opposed schools of thought.

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

opposingadjectiveCharacterized by active hostility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Opponent (or opposing) armies.

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

oppositeadjectiveBeing directly across from each other; facing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We lived on opposite sides of the street.

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

oppositionnounThe action of opposing something that you disapprove or disagree with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Despite opposition from the newspapers he went ahead.

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) ↗

oppressedadjectiveBurdened psychologically or mentally.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Oppressed by a sense of failure.

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

oppressionnounThe act of subjugating by cruelty.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The tyrant's oppression of the people.

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) ↗

oppressiveadjectiveMarked by unjust severity or arbitrary behavior.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The oppressive government.

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) ↗

opprobriumnounA state of extreme dishonor.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The name was a by-word of scorn and opprobrium throughout the city.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

opticadjectiveOf or relating to or resembling the eye.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The optic (or optical) axis of the eye.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opticaladjectiveRelating to or using sight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An optical illusion.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opticallyadverbIn an optical manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Optically distorted.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

opticsnounOptical properties.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The optics of a telescope.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

optimisticadjectiveExpecting the best in this best of all possible worlds.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In an optimistic mood.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

optimizeverbModify to achieve maximum efficiency in storage capacity or time or cost.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Optimize a computer program.

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) ↗

optimumadjectiveMost desirable possible under a restriction expressed or implied.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An optimum return on capital.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

optionnounOne of a number of things from which only one can be chosen.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

What option did I have?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

oraladjectiveOf or involving the mouth or mouth region or the surface on which the mouth is located.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The oral mucous membrane.

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) ↗

orationnounAn instance of oratory.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He delivered an oration on the decline of family values.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

oratoricaladjectiveCharacteristic of an orator or oratory.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Harangued his men in an oratorical way.

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

oratorynounAddressing an audience formally (usually a long and rhetorical address and often pompous).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He loved the sound of his own oratory.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

orbitnounThe (usually elliptical) path described by one celestial body in its revolution about another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He plotted the orbit of the moon.

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) ↗

orbitaladjectiveOf or relating to an orbit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Orbital revolution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

orchestrationnounAn arrangement of events that attempts to achieve a maximum effect.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The skillful orchestration of his political campaign.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

ordainedadjectiveInvested with ministerial or priestly functions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An ordained priest.

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

orderverbMake a request for something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Order me some flowers.

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) ↗

orderedadjectiveHaving a systematic arrangement; especially having elements succeeding in order according to rule.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An ordered sequence.

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

orderingnounThe act of putting things in a sequential arrangement.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There were mistakes in the ordering of items on the list.

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

orderlyadjectiveDevoid of violence or disruption.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An orderly crowd confronted the president.

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) ↗

ordinaryadjectiveUsual or common rather than unusual.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It began as an ordinary school day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

ordinationnounThe act of ordaining; the act of conferring (or receiving) holy orders.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rabbi's family was present for his ordination.

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

Definitions and usage examples in the expanded bank come from WordNet 3.0, with pronunciation references from CMUdict. Records are automatically screened and source-validated, not individually human reviewed. Practice difficulty is an estimate, not a grade level or official Scripps band. Sources and coverage ↗ · WordNet license · CMUdict license

No matching words.