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.

Want a path through the words?

Learn 1,000 words in a saved grade journey, ten at a time.

Open Spell Quest →

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

Words 6201–6300 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
passionatelyadverbWith passion.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She kissed him passionately.

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) ↗

passiveadjectiveLacking in energy or will.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Much benevolence of the passive order may be traced to a disinclination to inflict pain upon oneself.

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) ↗

passivelyadverbIn a passive manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He listened passively.

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) ↗

passportnounAny quality or characteristic that gains a person a favorable reception or acceptance or admission.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His wealth was not a passport into the exclusive circles of society.

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

passwordnounA secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He forgot the password.

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) ↗

pastadjectiveEarlier than the present time; no longer current.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

This past Thursday.

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

pasteverbJoin or attach with or as if with glue.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Paste the sign on the wall.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

pastedadjectiveAffixed or as if affixed with glue or paste.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pieces of pasted paper.

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

pasteladjectiveLacking in body or vigor.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Faded pastel charms of the naive music.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

pastimenounA diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sailing is her favorite pastime.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

pastoraladjective(used with regard to idealized country life) idyllically rustic.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Charming in its pastoral setting.

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

patadverbCompletely or perfectly.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He has the lesson pat.

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) ↗

patchnounA period of indeterminate length (usually short) marked by some action or condition.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A patch of bad weather.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

patchedadjectiveHaving spots or patches (small areas of contrasting color or texture).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A field patched with ice and snow.

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

patentadjective(of a bodily tube or passageway) open; affording free passage.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Patent ductus arteriosus.

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) ↗

patentedadjective(of devices and processes) protected by patent.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They are patented inventions.

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

patentlyadverbUnmistakably (`plain' is often used informally for `plainly').intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It is all patently nonsense.

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) ↗

paternaladjectiveBelonging to or inherited from one's father.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Spent his childhood on the paternal farm.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

paternitynounThe state of being a father.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tests were conducted to determine paternity.

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) ↗

pathnounA course of conduct.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The path of virtue.

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) ↗

patheticadjectiveInspiring mixed contempt and pity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Their efforts were pathetic.

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

pathogenicadjectiveAble to cause disease.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pathogenic bacteria.

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

pathologicaladjectiveOf or relating to the practice of pathology.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pathological laboratory.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Hindi, 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) ↗

pathosnounA quality that arouses emotions (especially pity or sorrow).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The film captured all the pathos of their situation.

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

patientadjectiveAble to wait calmly without becoming annoyed.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The patient teacher explained the steps again.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin, through French

Original teaching entry.

patientlyadverbWith patience; in a patient manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He patiently played with the child.

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) ↗

patricianadjectiveBelonging to or characteristic of the nobility or aristocracy.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Patrician landholders of the American South.

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) ↗

patrilinealadjectiveBased on or tracing descent through the male line.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A patrilineal society.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

patrimonialadjectiveInherited or inheritable by established rules (usually legal rules) of descent.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Patrimonial estate.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

patriotismnounLove of country and willingness to sacrifice for it.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They rode the same wave of popular patriotism.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late 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) ↗

patronagenounThe business given to a commercial establishment by its customers.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Even before noon there was a considerable patronage.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

patronizeverbBe a regular customer or client of.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We patronize this store.

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) ↗

patronizedadjectiveHaving patronage or clients.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Street full of flourishing well-patronized shops.

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

patternounA quick succession of light rapid sounds.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The patter of mice.

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) ↗

patternnounA perceptual structure.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A visual pattern must include not only objects but the spaces between them.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

pauseverbCease an action temporarily.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We pause for station identification.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

paveverbCover with a material such as stone or concrete to make suitable for vehicle traffic.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pave the roads in the village.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

pawverbTouch clumsily.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The man tried to paw her.

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) ↗

pawnverbLeave as a guarantee in return for money.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pawn your grandfather's gold watch.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

payverbGive money, usually in exchange for goods or services.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pay the waitress, please.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

payableadjectiveSubject to or requiring payment especially as specified.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A note payable on demand.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

payrollnounA list of employees and their salaries.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The company had a long payroll.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

peacenounHarmonious relations; freedom from disputes.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The roommates lived in peace together.

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) ↗

peaceableadjectiveInclined or disposed to peace.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They met in a peaceable spirit.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

peaceablyadverbIn a peaceable manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The tenant paying the rent hereby reserved and performing the several covenants herein on his part contained shall peaceably hold and enjoy the demised premises.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

peacefullyadverbIn a peaceful manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The hen settled herself on the nest most peacefully.

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) ↗

peacekeepernounSomeone who keeps peace.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She's the peacekeeper in that family.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

peaknounThe top or extreme point of something (usually a mountain or hill).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The view from the peak was magnificent.

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) ↗

peakedadjectiveSomewhat ill or prone to illness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You look a little peaked.

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

peanutadjectiveOf little importance or influence or power; of minor status.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Peanut politicians.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

peanutsnounAn insignificant sum of money; a trifling amount.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Her salary is peanuts compared to his.

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

peculiaradjectiveUnusual or different from what is expected.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A peculiar sound came from the old clock.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

peculiarlyadverbUniquely or characteristically.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A peculiarly French phenomenon.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

pecuniaryadjectiveRelating to or involving money.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He received thanks but no pecuniary compensation for his services.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

pedagogicaladjectiveOf or relating to pedagogy.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pedagogical significance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi.

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

pedagogynounThe profession of a teacher.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pedagogy is recognized as an important profession.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

pedaladjectiveOf or relating to the feet.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The word for a pedal extremity is `foot'.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

pedestalnounA position of great esteem (and supposed superiority).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They put him on a pedestal.

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

pedestrianadjectiveLacking wit or imagination.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A pedestrian movie plot.

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) ↗

peelernounA device for peeling vegetables or fruits.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She invented a potato peeler.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

peerlessadjectiveEminent beyond or above comparison.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A peerless scholar.

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

peevedadjectiveAroused to impatience or anger.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Peeved about being left out.

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

peltingnounAnything happening rapidly or in quick successive.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A pelting of insults.

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

pelvicadjectiveOf or relating to the pelvis.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pelvic inflammation.

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

penaltynounThe disadvantage or painful consequences of an action or condition.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Neglected his health and paid the penalty.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

penchantnounA strong liking.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The Irish have a penchant for blarney.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

pencilnounA tool with a narrow writing core inside a cover, often made of wood.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Use a pencil to draw the outline.

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) ↗

penciledadjectiveDrawn or written with a pencil.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The penciled message.

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

pendantadjectiveHeld from above.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A pendant bunch of grapes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman.

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

pendingadjectiveAwaiting conclusion or confirmation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Business still pending.

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

pendulousadjectiveHaving branches or flower heads that bend downward.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The pendulous branches of a weeping willow.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

penetrateverbMake one's way deeper into or through.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The hikers did not manage to penetrate the dense forest.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

penetratingadjectiveHaving or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Penetrating insight.

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

penetrationnounThe act of entering into or through something.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The penetration of upper management by women.

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) ↗

peninsularadjectiveOf or forming or resembling a peninsula.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Peninsular isolation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

penuriousadjectiveExcessively unwilling to spend.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lived in a most penurious manner--denying himself every indulgence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval Latin.

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

peoplenoun(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

There were at least 200 people in the audience.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

peopledadjectiveFurnished with people.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sparsely peopled arctic regions.

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

peoplesnounThe human beings of a particular nation or community or ethnic group.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The indigenous peoples of Australia.

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

pepnounLiveliness and energy.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

This tonic is guaranteed to give you more pep.

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

peppyadjectiveMarked by lively action.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The peppy and interesting talk.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

perceiveverbTo become aware of through the senses.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I could perceive the ship coming over the horizon.

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) ↗

perceivedadjectiveDetected by instinct or inference rather than by recognized perceptual cues.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A perceived threat.

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

perceptibleadjectiveCapable of being perceived by the mind or senses.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A perceptible limp.

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) ↗

perceptionnounKnowledge gained by perceiving.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A man admired for the depth of his perception.

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) ↗

perceptiveadjectiveHaving the ability to perceive or understand; keen in discernment.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A perceptive observation.

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

perceptualadjectiveOf or relating to the act of perceiving.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Perceptual stimulus.

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

percipientadjectiveCharacterized by ease and quickness in perceiving.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A percipient author.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

percutaneousadjectiveThrough the unbroken skin; refers to medications applied directly to the skin (creams or ointments) or in time-release forms (skin patches).advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Percutaneous absorption.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, New 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) ↗

peremptoryadjectiveOffensively self-assured or given to exercising usually unwarranted power.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A swaggering peremptory manner.

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

perennialadjectiveLasting three seasons or more.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The common buttercup is a popular perennial plant.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

perenniallyadverbIn a perennial manner; repeatedly.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We want to know what is perennially new about the world.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

perfectedadjective(of plans, ideas, etc.) perfectly formed.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A graceful but not yet fully perfected literary style.

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

perfectionismnounA disposition to feel that anything less than perfect is unacceptable.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His perfectionism seemed excessive to his students.

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) ↗

perfectlyadverbCompletely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You're perfectly right.

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) ↗

perforateverbMake a hole into or between, as for ease of separation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Perforate the sheets of paper.

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

perforatedadjectiveHaving a number or series of holes.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Perforated cancellation.

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

perforationnounA hole made in something.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A perforation of the eardrum.

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

performancenounThe act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An inspired performance of Mozart's C minor concerto.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

perfumedadjectiveFilled or impregnated with perfume.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Perfumed stationery.

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