THE US ENGLISH PRACTICE BANK

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Words 6601–6700 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

preconceivedadjective(of an idea or opinion) formed beforehand; especially without evidence or through prejudice.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Certain preconceived notions.

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

precookedadjectiveCooked partially or completely beforehand.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Frozen precooked meals from the supermarket.

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

predateverbPrey on or hunt for.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

These mammals predate certain eggs.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Arabic, Hebrew, 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) ↗

predatoryadjectiveLiving by or given to victimizing others for personal gain.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Predatory capitalists.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

predestinedadjectiveEstablished or prearranged unalterably.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It seemed predestined since the beginning of the world.

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

predeterminedadjectiveSet in advance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

At a predetermined time.

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

predicamentnounA situation from which extrication is difficult especially an unpleasant or trying one.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Finds himself in a most awkward predicament.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

predilectionnounA predisposition in favor of something.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A predilection for expensive cars.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

predisposedadjectiveMade susceptible.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Because of conditions in the mine, miners are predisposed to lung disease.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

predominantlyadverbMuch greater in number or influence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The patients are predominantly indigenous.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

predominateverbBe larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood.

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

preeminentadjectiveGreatest in importance or degree or significance or achievement.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A preeminent archeologist.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

preemptverbTake the place of or have precedence over.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Discussion of the emergency situation will preempt the lecture by the professor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

preemptionnounA prior appropriation of something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The preemption of bandwidth by commercial interests.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

preemptiveadjectiveDesigned or having the power to deter or prevent an anticipated situation or occurrence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A preemptive business offer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

prefectnounA chief officer or chief magistrate.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prefect of Paris police.

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) ↗

prefecturaladjectiveOf or relating to a prefecture.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A prefectural museum.

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) ↗

preferverbLike better; value more highly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We prefer sleeping outside.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

preferableadjectiveMore desirable than another.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Coffee is preferable to tea.

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

preferablyadverbMore readily or willingly.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Clean it well, preferably with warm water.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

preferencenounA strong liking.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My own preference is for good literature.

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) ↗

preferentialadjectiveManifesting partiality.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Preferential treatment.

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) ↗

preferentiallyadverbIn a preferential manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was treated preferentially.

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) ↗

preferredadjectiveMore desirable than another.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Danny's preferred name is `Dan'.

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

pregnantadjectiveFilled with or attended with.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A silence pregnant with suspense.

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) ↗

prehistoricadjectiveBelonging to or existing in times before recorded history.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Prehistoric peoples.

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) ↗

prejudicedadjectiveBeing biased or having a belief or attitude formed beforehand.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A prejudiced judge.

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

prejudicialadjective(sometimes followed by `to') causing harm or injury.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The reporter's coverage resulted in prejudicial publicity for the defendant.

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

preliminaryadjectiveDenoting an action or event preceding or in preparation for something more important; designed to orient or acquaint with a situation before proceeding.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A preliminary investigation.

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) ↗

prematureadjectiveUncommonly early or before the expected time.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Illness led to his premature death.

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) ↗

premeditateverbThink or reflect beforehand or in advance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I rarely premeditate, which is a mistake.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

premeditatedadjectiveCharacterized by deliberate purpose and some degree of planning.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A premeditated crime.

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

premieradjectiveFirst in rank or degree.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An architect of premier rank.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

premiereadjectivePreceding all others in time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The premiere showing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

premisesnounLand and the buildings on it.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bread is baked on the premises.

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

premiumadjectiveHaving or reflecting superior quality or value.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Premium gasoline at a premium price.

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

prenataladjectiveOccurring or existing before birth.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prenatal period.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

prenuptialadjectiveRelating to events before a marriage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Prenuptial agreement.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

preoccupiedadjectiveHaving or showing excessive or compulsive concern with something.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Got no help from his wife who was preoccupied with the children.

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

preparationnounA substance prepared according to a formula.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The physician prescribed a commercial preparation of the medicine.

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) ↗

prepareverbLead up to and soften by sounding the dissonant note in it as a consonant note in the preceding chord.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Prepare the discord in bar 139.

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) ↗

preparedadjectiveMade ready or fit or suitable beforehand.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A prepared statement.

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

preponderancenounExceeding in heaviness; having greater weight.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The least preponderance in either pan will unbalance the scale.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

preposterousadjectiveIncongruous;inviting ridicule.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A preposterous attempt to turn back the pages of history.

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

prerequisitenounSomething that is required in advance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Latin was a prerequisite for admission.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

prerogativenounA right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Suffrage was the prerogative of white adult males.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

prescientadjectivePerceiving the significance of events before they occur.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Extraordinarily prescient memoranda on the probable course of postwar relations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

prescribedadjectiveConforming to set usage, procedure, or discipline.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In prescribed order.

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

prescriptionnounDirections prescribed beforehand; the action of prescribing authoritative rules or directions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I tried to follow her prescription for success.

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) ↗

presencenounThe state of being present; current existence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He tested for the presence of radon.

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

presentableadjectiveFit to be seen.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Presentable clothes.

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) ↗

presentationnounThe activity of formally presenting something (as a prize or reward).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She gave the trophy but he made the presentation.

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) ↗

presentlyadverbIn the near future.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She will arrive presently.

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) ↗

preservativeadjectiveTending or having the power to preserve.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Timbers should be treated with a preservative substance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval 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) ↗

preserveverbKeep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Preserve the peace in the family.

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) ↗

presetadjectiveSet in advance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A preset plan of action.

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) ↗

presideverbAct as president.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Preside over companies and corporations.

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) ↗

presidencynounThe office and function of president.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Andrew Jackson expanded the power of the presidency beyond what was customary before his time.

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

presidentialadjectiveRelating to a president or presidency.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Presidential aides.

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) ↗

presidionoun★ Asked at the 2026 national bee · Round 1A fortress established in the southwestern United States by the Spanish in order to protect their missions and other holdings.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tucson was first settled as a walled presidio.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

Asked at the 2026 national bee · Round 1 · Source ↗

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

pressverbExert pressure or force to or upon.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Press your thumb on this spot.

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) ↗

pressingadjectiveCompelling immediate action.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Too pressing to permit of longer delay.

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

pressurenounThe force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The compressed gas exerts an increased pressure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

pressurizeverbIncrease the pressure in or of.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The captain will pressurize the cabin for the passengers' comfort.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

prestigenounA high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He wanted to achieve power and prestige.

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) ↗

presumablyadverbBy reasonable assumption.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Presumably, he missed the train.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

presumptionnounA kind of discourtesy in the form of an act of presuming.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His presumption was intolerable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

presumptiveadjectiveAffording reasonable grounds for belief or acceptance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Presumptive evidence.

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) ↗

presumptuousadjectiveExcessively forward.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The duchess would not put up with presumptuous servants.

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) ↗

presupposeverbTake for granted or as a given; suppose beforehand.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I presuppose that you have done your work.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

pretendnounThe enactment of a pretense.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was just pretend.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

pretendedadjectiveAdopted in order to deceive.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pretended interest.

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

pretendingnounThe act of giving a false appearance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His conformity was only pretending.

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

pretensionnounThe advancing of a claim.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His pretension to the crown.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

pretentiousadjectiveMaking claim to or creating an appearance of (often undeserved) importance or distinction.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pretentious fraud.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

prettyadjective(used ironically) unexpectedly bad.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pretty kettle of fish.

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) ↗

prevalencenounThe quality of prevailing generally; being widespread.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was surprised by the prevalence of optimism about the future.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle French.

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

preventverbStop (someone or something) from doing something or being in a certain state.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We must prevent the cancer from spreading.

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) ↗

preventionnounThe act of preventing.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Money was allocated to study the cause and prevention of influenza.

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) ↗

preventiveadjectivePreventing or contributing to the prevention of disease.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Preventive medicine.

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) ↗

previousadjectiveJust preceding something else in time or order.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The previous owner.

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

previouslyadverbAt an earlier time or formerly.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A previously unquestioned attitude.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

prewaradjectiveExisting or belonging to a time before a war.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Prewar levels of industrial production.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Latin, Medieval Latin, Middle English, Old English, 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) ↗

preynounA person who is the aim of an attack (especially a victim of ridicule or exploitation) by some hostile person or influence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He fell prey to muggers.

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) ↗

pricenounThe property of having material worth (often indicated by the amount of money something would bring if sold).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He puts a high price on his services.

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) ↗

priceyadjectiveHaving a high price.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A pricey restaurant.

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) ↗

pricknounThe act of puncturing with a small point.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the balloon a small prick.

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) ↗

pricklyadjectiveVery irritable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He became prickly and spiteful.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

pridenounSatisfaction with your (or another's) achievements.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He takes pride in his son's success.

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) ↗

priestlyadjectiveBefitting or characteristic of a priest or the priesthood.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Priestly dedication to the people of his parish.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

primaladjectiveHaving existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Primal eras before the appearance of life on earth.

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) ↗

primarilyadverbOf primary import.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This is primarily a question of economics.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

primaryadjectiveOf first rank or importance or value; direct and immediate rather than secondary.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A primary interest.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

primeadjectiveFirst in rank or degree.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prime minister.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

primedadjective(usually followed by `to' or `for') on the point of or strongly disposed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Primed for a fight.

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

primevaladjectiveHaving existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The forest primeval.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi.

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

primitiveadjectiveBelonging to an early stage of technical development; characterized by simplicity and (often) crudeness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Primitive movies of the 1890s.

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) ↗

primordialadjectiveHaving existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Primordial forms of life.

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

princelyadjectiveHaving the rank of or befitting a prince.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A princely bearing.

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) ↗

principaladjectiveMost important element.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The principal example.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

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

No matching words.