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principlenounA rule or standard especially of good behavior.beginner
A man of principle.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
principledadjectiveBased on or manifesting objectively defined standards of rightness or morality.intermediate
A principled person.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
printnounThe text appearing in a book, newspaper, or other printed publication.intermediate
I want to see it in print.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Middle English.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
printableadjectiveFit for publication because free of material that is morally or legally objectionable.advanced
Printable language.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: 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) ↗
printingnounAll the copies of a work printed at one time.intermediate
They ran off an initial printing of 2000 copies.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prioritizeverbAssign a priority to.advanced
We have too many things to do and must prioritize.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prioritynounStatus established in order of importance or urgency.intermediate
National independence takes priority over class struggle.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
pristineadjectiveImmaculately clean and unused.intermediate
Handed her his pristine white handkerchief.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
privateadjectiveConfined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy.beginner
Private discussions.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
privatelyadverbKept private or confined to those intimately concerned.intermediate
Privately, she thought differently.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
privationnounAct of depriving someone of food or money or rights.intermediate
Nutritional privation.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Old French.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
privilegenounA special right or advantage given to someone.intermediate
It was a privilege to meet the visiting scientist.
ORIGIN SUMMARYLatin, through French
Original teaching entry.
privilegedadjectiveBlessed with privileges.intermediate
The privileged few.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
privyadjective(followed by `to') informed about something secret or not generally known.beginner
Privy to the details of the conspiracy.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prizenounSomething given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition or for winning a lottery.beginner
The prize was a free trip to Europe.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proactiveadjectiveDescriptive of any event or stimulus or process that has an effect on events or stimuli or processes that occur subsequently.advanced
Proactive inhibition.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Anglo-Norman, Hindi, 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) ↗
probabilitynounA measure of how likely it is that some event will occur; a number expressing the ratio of favorable cases to the whole number of cases possible.intermediate
The probability that an unbiased coin will fall with the head up is 0.5.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
probableadjectiveLikely but not certain to be or become true or real.beginner
He foresaw a probable loss.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
probablyadverbWith considerable certainty; without much doubt.intermediate
He is probably out of the country.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
probationnoun(law) a way of dealing with offenders without imprisoning them; a defendant found guilty of a crime is released by the court without imprisonment subject to conditions imposed by the court.intermediate
Probation is part of the sentencing process.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
probativeadjectiveTending to prove a particular proposition or to persuade you of the truth of an allegation.intermediate
Evidence should only be excluded if its probative value was outweighed by its prejudicial effect.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
probenounAn inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities.beginner
There was a congressional probe into the scandal.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
probitynounComplete and confirmed integrity; having strong moral principles.intermediate
He enjoys an exaggerated reputation for probity.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
problemnounA source of difficulty.beginner
What's the problem?
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗
proceduraladjectiveOf or relating to procedure.intermediate
A procedural violation.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: French, Hindi, 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) ↗
procedurenounA particular course of action intended to achieve a result.beginner
The procedure of obtaining a driver's license.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
processnounA particular course of action intended to achieve a result.beginner
It was a process of trial and error.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
processedadjectiveSubjected to a special process or treatment.intermediate
Processed cheeses are easy to spread.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
processingnounPreparing or putting through a prescribed procedure.intermediate
The processing of ore to obtain minerals.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
processionnoun(theology) the origination of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.advanced
The doctrine of the procession of the Holy Spirit from the Father and the Son.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proclaimverbState or announce.beginner
The King will proclaim an amnesty.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proclaimedadjectiveDeclared publicly; made widely known.intermediate
The newspaper's proclaimed adherence to the government's policy.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
proclivitynounA natural inclination.advanced
He has a proclivity for exaggeration.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
procurementnounThe act of getting possession of something.intermediate
He was responsible for the procurement of materials and supplies.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
procurernounSomeone who obtains or acquires.intermediate
The procurer of opera tickets.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
proddingnounA verbalization that encourages you to attempt something.intermediate
The ceaseless prodding got on his nerves.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prodigaladjectiveRecklessly wasteful.intermediate
Prodigal in their expenditures.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗
prodigiousadjectiveSo great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe.intermediate
A prodigious storm.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prodigynounAn unusually gifted or intelligent (young) person; someone whose talents excite wonder and admiration.intermediate
She is a chess prodigy.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
producernounSomething that produces.intermediate
Maine is a leading producer of potatoes.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
productnounAn artifact that has been created by someone or some process.beginner
They improve their product every year.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
productionnounThe act or process of producing something.intermediate
The production of white blood cells.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
productiveadjectiveProducing or capable of producing (especially abundantly).intermediate
Productive farmland.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Late Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
profaneadjectiveNot concerned with or devoted to religion.intermediate
Sacred and profane music.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
professedadjectiveOpenly declared as such.intermediate
McKinley was assassinated by a professed anarchist.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
professionnounThe body of people in a learned occupation.intermediate
The news spread rapidly through the medical profession.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
professionaladjectiveEngaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood.intermediate
A professional cook.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Anglo-Norman, Hindi, 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) ↗
professionallyadverbIn a professional manner.advanced
Professionally trained staff.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Anglo-Norman, Hindi, 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) ↗
proficiencynounSkillfulness in the command of fundamentals deriving from practice and familiarity.advanced
Practice greatly improves proficiency.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
proficientadjectiveHaving or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude.intermediate
A proficient engineer.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
profilenounAn analysis (often in graphical form) representing the extent to which something exhibits various characteristics.beginner
A biochemical profile of blood.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
profitableadjectiveYielding material gain or profit.intermediate
Profitable speculation on the stock market.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
profoundadjectiveShowing intellectual penetration or emotional depth.beginner
A profound insight.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
profuselyadverbIn an abundant manner.intermediate
He thanked her profusely.
ORIGIN SUMMARYEnglish word formation.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
profusionnounThe property of being extremely abundant.advanced
The profusion of detail.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: 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) ↗
programnounA system of projects or services intended to meet a public need.beginner
Working mothers rely on the day care program.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Ancient Greek, French, 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) ↗
progressnounGradual improvement or growth or development.beginner
Great progress in the arts.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
progressiveadjectiveFavoring or promoting progress.intermediate
Progressive schools.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
prohibitionnounThe action of prohibiting or inhibiting or forbidding (or an instance thereof).advanced
They were restrained by a prohibition in their charter.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prohibitiveadjectiveTending to discourage (especially of prices).advanced
The price was prohibitive.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
projectedadjectiveExtending out above or beyond a surface or boundary.advanced
Massive projected buttresses.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
projectileadjectiveImpelling or impelled forward.intermediate
A projectile force.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
projectionnounThe acoustic phenomenon that gives sound a penetrating quality.advanced
A prime ingredient of public speaking is projection of the voice.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prolificadjectiveBearing in abundance especially offspring.intermediate
A prolific pear tree.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prolongverbLengthen or extend in duration or space.intermediate
Prolong the treatment of the patient.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
prolongedadjectiveRelatively long in duration; tediously protracted.intermediate
A prolonged and bitter struggle.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prominencenounSomething that bulges out or is protuberant or projects from its surroundings.intermediate
He stood on the rocky prominence.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prominentadjectiveHaving a quality that thrusts itself into attention.beginner
A new theory is the most prominent feature of the book.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prominentlyadverbIn a prominent way.advanced
The new car was prominently displayed in the driveway.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
promisenounA statement that you will do something.beginner
He made a promise to return the borrowed book.
ORIGIN SUMMARYLatin, through French
Original teaching entry.
promisingadjectiveShowing possibility of achievement or excellence.beginner
A promising young man.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
promptadjectiveAccording to schedule or without delay; on time.beginner
The train is prompt.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
promptingnounA cue given to a performer (usually the beginning of the next line to be spoken).intermediate
The audience could hear his prompting.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
promptlyadverbWith little or no delay.intermediate
The rescue squad arrived promptly.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proneadjectiveHaving a tendency (to); often used in combination.intermediate
A child prone to mischief.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
pronouncedadjectiveStrongly marked; easily noticeable.intermediate
A pronounced flavor of cinnamon.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
proofnounAny factual evidence that helps to establish the truth of something.beginner
If you have any proof for what you say, now is the time to produce it.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Old French. The source may include more than one historical route or component.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
proofedadjectiveTreated so as to become resistant.intermediate
Shrink-proofed fabrics.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
proofreadverbRead for errors.intermediate
I should proofread my manuscripts.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: 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) ↗
propagateverbTravel through the air.intermediate
Sound and light propagate in this medium.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
propellantadjectiveTending to or capable of propelling.intermediate
Propellant fuel for submarines.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
propensitynounA disposition to behave in a certain way.advanced
The propensity of disease to spread.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
properadjectiveMarked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness.beginner
Proper medical treatment.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
properlyadverbIn the right manner.intermediate
Please do your job properly!
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
propertynounSomething owned; any tangible or intangible possession that is owned by someone.beginner
That hat is my property.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
propheticadjectiveForetelling events as if by supernatural intervention.intermediate
Prophetic writings.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prophylacticadjectivePreventing or contributing to the prevention of disease.advanced
Vaccines are prophylactic.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
propitiousadjectivePresenting favorable circumstances; likely to result in or show signs of success.advanced
Propitious gales speeded us along.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proportionnounThe relation between things (or parts of things) with respect to their comparative quantity, magnitude, or degree.advanced
A dry martini has a large proportion of gin.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proportionaladjectiveProperly related in size or degree or other measurable characteristics; usually followed by `to'.intermediate
The punishment ought to be proportional to the crime.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
proportionateadjectiveBeing in due proportion.intermediate
Proportionate representation of a minority group.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
proportionatelyadverbTo a proportionate degree.advanced
Your salary will rise proportionately to your workload.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
propositionnounA task to be dealt with.advanced
Securing adequate funding is a time-consuming proposition.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
propsnounProper respect.beginner
I have to give my props to the governor for the way he handled the problem.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prosaicadjectiveNot fanciful or imaginative.intermediate
A prosaic and unimaginative essay.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin, Medieval Latin, Middle 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) ↗
prospectiveadjectiveOf or concerned with or related to the future.intermediate
A prospective bride.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin not available for this entry.
prospectusnounA formal written offer to sell securities (filed with the SEC) that sets forth a plan for a (proposed) business enterprise.advanced
A prospectus should contain the facts that an investor needs to make an informed decision.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-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) ↗
prosperousadjectiveIn fortunate circumstances financially; moderately rich.intermediate
A prosperous family.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin, Middle French, 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) ↗
prostrationnounAn abrupt failure of function or complete physical exhaustion.advanced
The commander's prostration demoralized his men.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Latin.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
proteanadjectiveTaking on different forms.intermediate
Eyes...of that baffling protean grey which is never twice the same.
ORIGIN SUMMARYSource-language links: Ancient Greek.
Definition and example: WordNet 3.0. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗
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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