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Words 6701–6800 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
principlenounA rule or standard especially of good behavior.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A man of principle.

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) ↗

principledadjectiveBased on or manifesting objectively defined standards of rightness or morality.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A principled person.

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) ↗

printnounThe text appearing in a book, newspaper, or other printed publication.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I want to see it in print.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Printable language.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We have too many things to do and must prioritize.

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) ↗

prioritynounStatus established in order of importance or urgency.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

National independence takes priority over class struggle.

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) ↗

pristineadjectiveImmaculately clean and unused.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Handed her his pristine white handkerchief.

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) ↗

privateadjectiveConfined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Private discussions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Privately, she thought differently.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Nutritional privation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a privilege to meet the visiting scientist.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin, through French

Original teaching entry.

privilegedadjectiveBlessed with privileges.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Privy to the details of the conspiracy.

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) ↗

prizenounSomething given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition or for winning a lottery.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The prize was a free trip to Europe.

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) ↗

proactiveadjectiveDescriptive of any event or stimulus or process that has an effect on events or stimuli or processes that occur subsequently.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Proactive inhibition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The probability that an unbiased coin will fall with the head up is 0.5.

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) ↗

probableadjectiveLikely but not certain to be or become true or real.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He foresaw a probable loss.

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) ↗

probablyadverbWith considerable certainty; without much doubt.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is probably out of the country.

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) ↗

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a congressional probe into the scandal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

probitynounComplete and confirmed integrity; having strong moral principles.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He enjoys an exaggerated reputation for probity.

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) ↗

problemnounA source of difficulty.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

What's the problem?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A procedural violation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The procedure of obtaining a driver's license.

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) ↗

processnounA particular course of action intended to achieve a result.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a process of trial and error.

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) ↗

processedadjectiveSubjected to a special process or treatment.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Processed cheeses are easy to spread.

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) ↗

processingnounPreparing or putting through a prescribed procedure.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The doctrine of the procession of the Holy Spirit from the Father and the Son.

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) ↗

proclaimverbState or announce.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The King will proclaim an amnesty.

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) ↗

proclaimedadjectiveDeclared publicly; made widely known.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He has a proclivity for exaggeration.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The procurer of opera tickets.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

proddingnounA verbalization that encourages you to attempt something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The ceaseless prodding got on his nerves.

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

prodigaladjectiveRecklessly wasteful.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Prodigal in their expenditures.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prodigious storm.

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) ↗

prodigynounAn unusually gifted or intelligent (young) person; someone whose talents excite wonder and admiration.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She is a chess prodigy.

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) ↗

producernounSomething that produces.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Maine is a leading producer of potatoes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

productnounAn artifact that has been created by someone or some process.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They improve their product every year.

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) ↗

productionnounThe act or process of producing something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The production of white blood cells.

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) ↗

productiveadjectiveProducing or capable of producing (especially abundantly).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Productive farmland.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sacred and profane music.

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) ↗

professedadjectiveOpenly declared as such.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The news spread rapidly through the medical profession.

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) ↗

professionaladjectiveEngaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A professional cook.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Professionally trained staff.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A biochemical profile of blood.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

profitableadjectiveYielding material gain or profit.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Profitable speculation on the stock market.

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) ↗

profoundadjectiveShowing intellectual penetration or emotional depth.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A profound insight.

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) ↗

profuselyadverbIn an abundant manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He thanked her profusely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English 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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The profusion of detail.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Working mothers rely on the day care program.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Great progress in the arts.

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) ↗

progressiveadjectiveFavoring or promoting progress.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Progressive schools.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They were restrained by a prohibition in their charter.

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) ↗

prohibitiveadjectiveTending to discourage (especially of prices).advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The price was prohibitive.

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) ↗

projectedadjectiveExtending out above or beyond a surface or boundary.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Massive projected buttresses.

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

projectileadjectiveImpelling or impelled forward.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A projectile force.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prime ingredient of public speaking is projection of the voice.

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) ↗

prolificadjectiveBearing in abundance especially offspring.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prolific pear tree.

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) ↗

prolongverbLengthen or extend in duration or space.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Prolong the treatment of the patient.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

prolongedadjectiveRelatively long in duration; tediously protracted.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A new theory is the most prominent feature of the book.

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) ↗

prominentlyadverbIn a prominent way.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The new car was prominently displayed in the driveway.

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) ↗

promisenounA statement that you will do something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He made a promise to return the borrowed book.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin, through French

Original teaching entry.

promisingadjectiveShowing possibility of achievement or excellence.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The train is prompt.

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) ↗

promptingnounA cue given to a performer (usually the beginning of the next line to be spoken).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The audience could hear his prompting.

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

promptlyadverbWith little or no delay.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The rescue squad arrived promptly.

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) ↗

proneadjectiveHaving a tendency (to); often used in combination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A child prone to mischief.

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) ↗

pronouncedadjectiveStrongly marked; easily noticeable.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

If you have any proof for what you say, now is the time to produce it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

proofedadjectiveTreated so as to become resistant.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Shrink-proofed fabrics.

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

proofreadverbRead for errors.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I should proofread my manuscripts.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Propellant fuel for submarines.

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) ↗

propensitynounA disposition to behave in a certain way.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The propensity of disease to spread.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Proper medical treatment.

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) ↗

properlyadverbIn the right manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Please do your job properly!

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) ↗

propertynounSomething owned; any tangible or intangible possession that is owned by someone.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

That hat is my property.

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) ↗

propheticadjectiveForetelling events as if by supernatural intervention.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Prophetic writings.

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) ↗

prophylacticadjectivePreventing or contributing to the prevention of disease.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Propitious gales speeded us along.

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) ↗

proportionnounThe relation between things (or parts of things) with respect to their comparative quantity, magnitude, or degree.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A dry martini has a large proportion of gin.

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) ↗

proportionaladjectiveProperly related in size or degree or other measurable characteristics; usually followed by `to'.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Proportionate representation of a minority group.

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) ↗

proportionatelyadverbTo a proportionate degree.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Your salary will rise proportionately to your workload.

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) ↗

propositionnounA task to be dealt with.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Securing adequate funding is a time-consuming proposition.

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) ↗

propsnounProper respect.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prosaic and unimaginative essay.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prospectus should contain the facts that an investor needs to make an informed decision.

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) ↗

prosperousadjectiveIn fortunate circumstances financially; moderately rich.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A prosperous family.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-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+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The commander's prostration demoralized his men.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

proteanadjectiveTaking on different forms.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Eyes...of that baffling protean grey which is never twice the same.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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