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Words 6501–6600 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

poleverbSupport on poles.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pole climbing plants like beans.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

policynounA plan of action adopted by an individual or social group.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a policy of retribution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Byzantine Greek, Italian, Late Latin, 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) ↗

polishnounA highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They performed with great polish.

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) ↗

polishedadjectivePerfected or made shiny and smooth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His polished prose.

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

polishingnounThe work of making something smooth and shiny by rubbing or waxing it.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Every Sunday he gave his car a good polishing.

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

politelyadverbIn a polite manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The policeman answered politely, `Now look here, lady...'.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

politicadjectiveMarked by artful prudence, expedience, and shrewdness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A politic decision.

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) ↗

politicaladjectiveInvolving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Political pressure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

politicallyadverbWith regard to government.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Politically organized units.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

politicizeverbGive a political character to.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Politicize the discussion.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

politicsnounSocial relations involving intrigue to gain authority or power.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Office politics is often counterproductive.

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

politynounShrewd or crafty management of public affairs.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We was innocent of stratagems and polity.

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) ↗

pollsternounSomeone who conducts surveys of public opinion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pollster conducts public opinion polls.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

pollutedadjectiveRendered unwholesome by contaminants and pollution.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Polluted lakes and streams.

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

polyglotadjectiveHaving a command of or composed in many languages.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A polyglot traveler.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Attic Greek, Koine Greek, Late 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) ↗

polygonaladjectiveHaving many sides or relating to a surface marked by polygons.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Polygonal structure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

polymorphicadjectiveHaving or occurring in several distinct forms.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Man is both polymorphic and polytypic.

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

polyphonicadjectiveOf or relating to or characterized by polyphony.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Polyphonic traditions of the baroque.

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

polystyrenenounA polymer of styrene; a rigid transparent thermoplastic.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Expanded polystyrene looks like a rigid white foam and is used as packing or insulation.

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) ↗

pondnounA small lake.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The pond was too small for sailing.

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) ↗

ponderousadjectiveSlow and laborious because of weight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ponderous prehistoric beasts.

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

pontificaladjectivePuffed up with vanity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pseudo-scientific gobbledygook and pontifical hooey.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

poolnounAn organization of people or resources that can be shared.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A secretarial pool.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

pooradjectiveDeserving or inciting pity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Oh, you poor thing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

poorlyadverb(`ill' is often used as a combining form) in a poor or improper or unsatisfactory manner; not well.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The team played poorly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

popverbPut or thrust suddenly and forcefully.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pop the pizza into the microwave oven.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

popsiclenounIce cream or water ice on a small wooden stick.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In England a popsicle is called an ice lolly.

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) ↗

popularadjectiveRegarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A popular tourist attraction.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

popularitynounThe quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The universal popularity of American movies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

popularlyadverbAmong the people.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This topic was popularly discussed.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

populateverbFill with inhabitants.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Populate the forest with deer and wild boar for hunting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

populatedadjectiveFurnished with inhabitants.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The area is well populated.

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

populationnounThe people who inhabit a territory or state.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The population seemed to be well fed and clothed.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

porousadjectiveAble to absorb fluids.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Compacting the soil to make it less porous.

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

portableadjectiveEasily or conveniently transported.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A portable television set.

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) ↗

portalnounA site that the owner positions as an entrance to other sites on the internet.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A portal typically has search engines and free email and chat rooms etc.

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) ↗

portentousadjectiveOf momentous or ominous significance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Such a portentous...monster raised all my curiosity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

portfolionounA large, flat, thin case for carrying loose papers or drawings or maps; usually leather.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He remembered her because she was carrying a large portfolio.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

portionnounSomething determined in relation to something that includes it.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I read a portion of the manuscript.

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) ↗

portlyadjectiveEuphemisms for `fat'.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Men are portly and women are stout.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

portrayverbMake a portrait of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Goya wanted to portray his mistress, the Duchess of Alba.

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

positionnounThe spatial property of a place where or way in which something is situated.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The position of the hands on the clock.

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) ↗

positiveadjectiveCharacterized by or displaying affirmation or acceptance or certainty etc.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A positive benefit.

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) ↗

positivelyadverbSo as to be positive; in a positive manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She intended her remarks to be interpreted positively.

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) ↗

possessionnoun(sport) the act of controlling the ball (or puck).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They took possession of the ball on their own goal line.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

possessiveadjectiveDesirous of owning.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Small children are so possessive they will not let others play with their toys.

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

possibilitynounSomething that could happen or be true.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There is a possibility of rain this afternoon.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin, through French

Original teaching entry.

possibleadjectiveCapable of happening or existing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Anything is possible.

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) ↗

possiblyadverbTo a degree possible of achievement or by possible means.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They can't possibly get here in time for the funeral?

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) ↗

postnounA job in an organization.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He occupied a post in the treasury.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

postedadjectivePublicly announced.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The posted speed limit.

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

posternounA sign posted in a public place as an advertisement.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A poster advertised the coming attractions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

posterioradjectiveComing at a subsequent time or stage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The mood posterior to.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

posteritynounAll of the offspring of a given progenitor.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We must secure the benefits of freedom for ourselves and our posterity.

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

posthumousadjectiveOccurring or coming into existence after a person's death.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A posthumous award.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

postingnoun(bookkeeping) a listing on the company's records.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The posting was made in the cash account.

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

postmortemadjectiveOccurring or done after death.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Postmortem changes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

postnataladjectiveOccurring immediately after birth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Postnatal development.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, 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) ↗

postoperativeadjectiveHappening or done after a surgical operation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Postoperative care.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

postponeverbHold back to a later time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's postpone the exam.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

postulateverbRequire as useful, just, or proper.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This intervention does not postulate a patient's consent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

posturenounCharacteristic way of bearing one's body.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stood with good posture.

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

postwaradjectiveBelonging to the period after a war.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Postwar resettlement.

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

potencynounThe power or right to give orders or make decisions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A place of potency in the state.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

potentadjectiveHaving a strong physiological or chemical effect.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A potent cup of tea.

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) ↗

potentialadjectiveExisting in possibility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A potential problem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

potentiallyadverbWith a possibility of becoming actual.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Potentially useful.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

potlucknounWhatever happens to be available especially when offered to an unexpected guest or when brought by guests and shared by all.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Having arrived unannounced we had to take potluck.

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

poundnounA public enclosure for stray or unlicensed dogs.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Unlicensed dogs will be taken to the pound.

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) ↗

poundernoun(used only in combination) something weighing a given number of pounds.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The fisherman caught a 10-pounder.

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) ↗

pourverbCause to run.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pour water over the floor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

pouringadjectiveFlowing profusely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Pouring flood waters.

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

powderedadjectiveConsisting of fine particles.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Powdered cellulose.

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

powernounPossession of controlling influence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The power of his love saved her.

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) ↗

poweredadjective(often used in combination) having or using or propelled by means of power or power of a specified kind.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Kerosine-powered jet engines.

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

powerfuladjectiveHaving great power or force or potency or effect.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A powerful argument.

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) ↗

powerfullyadverbIn a powerful manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The federal government replaced the powerfully pro-settler Sir Godfrey Huggins with the even tougher and more determined ex-trade unionist.

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) ↗

practicableadjectiveUsable for a specific purpose.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A practicable solution.

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

practicaladjectiveConcerned with actual use or practice.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is a very practical person.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

practicallyadverbAlmost; nearly.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was practically no garden at all.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

practicenounA customary way of operation or behavior.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is their practice to give annual raises.

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

practicedadjectiveHaving or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A practiced marksman.

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

pragmaticadjectiveConcerned with practical matters.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A matter-of-fact (or pragmatic) approach to the problem.

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) ↗

praisenounAn expression of approval and commendation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He always appreciated praise for his work.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

praiseworthyadjectiveWorthy of high praise.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A significant and praiseworthy increase in computer intelligence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

praxisnounTranslating an idea into action.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Differences between theory and praxis of communism.

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

prayernounThe act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The priest sank to his knees in prayer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

preachingnounA moralistic rebuke.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Your preaching is wasted on him.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

precariousadjectiveAffording no ease or reassurance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A precarious truce.

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

precautionnounA precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury etc.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He put an ice pack on the injury as a precaution.

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

precautionaryadjectiveTaken in advance to protect against possible danger or failure.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Gave precautionary advice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

precedeverbBe earlier in time; go back further.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stone tools precede bronze tools.

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

precedencenounStatus established in order of importance or urgency.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

...its precedence as the world's leading manufacturer of pharmaceuticals.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

preciousadjectiveCharacterized by feeling or showing fond affection for.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Children are precious.

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) ↗

precipitationnounAn unexpected acceleration or hastening.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is responsible for the precipitation of his own demise.

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) ↗

precipitousadjectiveExtremely steep.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The precipitous rapids of the upper river.

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) ↗

preciseadjectiveSharply exact or accurate or delimited.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Specified a precise amount.

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) ↗

preciselyadverbIndicating exactness or preciseness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was doing precisely (or exactly) what she had told him to do.

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) ↗

precisionnounThe quality of being reproducible in amount or performance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Note the meticulous precision of his measurements.

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) ↗

precociousadjectiveCharacterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A precocious child.

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

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