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Words 601–700 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

attendancenounThe number of people that are present.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Attendance was up by 50 per cent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attendantadjectiveFollowing or accompanying as a consequence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Attendant circumstances.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attentionnounCareful listening, watching, or thinking about something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Give your attention to the instructions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

Original teaching entry. Origin references: Wiktionary / etymology-db (CC BY-SA 3.0) ↗

attentiveadjective(often followed by `to') giving care or attention.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An attentive suitor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attentivelyadverbWith attention; in an attentive manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He listened attentively.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attentivenessnounPaying particular notice (as to children or helpless people).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His attentiveness to her wishes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attenuationnounWeakening in force or intensity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Attenuation in the volume of the sound.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

attestverbAuthenticate, affirm to be true, genuine, or correct, as in an official capacity.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I attest this signature.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

attiredadjectiveDressed or clothed especially in fine attire; often used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tuxedo-attired gentlemen.

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

attitudenounA complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and dispositions to act in certain ways.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had the attitude that work was fun.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Italian, Late Latin, 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) ↗

attractverbDirect toward itself or oneself by means of some psychological power or physical attributes.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her good looks attract the stares of many men.

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

attractionnounThe quality of arousing interest; being attractive or something that attracts.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her personality held a strange attraction for him.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

attractiveadjectivePleasing to the eye or mind especially through beauty or charm.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Attractive clothes.

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) ↗

attributableadjectiveCapable of being attributed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An idea attributable to a Russian.

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) ↗

attributionnounAssigning to a cause or source.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He questioned the attribution of the painting to Picasso.

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

attritionnounA wearing down to weaken or destroy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A war of attrition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

atypicaladjectiveNot representative of a group, class, or type.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A class of atypical mosses.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

audaciousadjectiveInvulnerable to fear or intimidation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Audacious explorers.

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

audacitynounAggressive boldness or unmitigated effrontery.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had the audacity to question my decision.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

audibleadjectiveHeard or perceptible by the ear.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He spoke in an audible whisper.

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) ↗

audiencenounA gathering of spectators or listeners at a (usually public) performance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The audience applauded.

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) ↗

audionounThe audible part of a transmitted signal.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They always raise the audio for commercials.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

audiovisualadjectiveInvolving both hearing and seeing (usually relating to teaching aids).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The school's audiovisual department.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

auditverbExamine carefully for accuracy with the intent of verification.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Audit accounts and tax returns.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

auditoryadjectiveOf or relating to the process of hearing.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Auditory processing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

augmentedadjectiveAdded to or made greater in amount or number or strength.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His augmented renown.

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

auranounA distinctive but intangible quality surrounding a person or thing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The place had an aura of romance.

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) ↗

auraladjectiveRelating to or characterized by an aura.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Various aural effects that precede a migraine headache.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi.

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

auroraladjectiveCharacteristic of the dawn.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A dim auroral glow.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

auspicesnounKindly endorsement and guidance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The tournament was held under the auspices of the city council.

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

auspiciousadjectiveAuguring favorable circumstances and good luck.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An auspicious beginning for the campaign.

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) ↗

austereadjectivePracticing great self-denial.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A desert nomad's austere life.

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

australadjectiveOf the south or coming from the south.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sailed the austral seas.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

authenticadjectiveNot counterfeit or copied.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An authentic signature.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

authoritarianadjectiveCharacteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An authoritarian regime.

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) ↗

authoritativeadjectiveHaving authority or ascendancy or influence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The captain's authoritative manner.

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) ↗

authoritativelyadverbIn an authoritative and magisterial manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She spoke authoritatively.

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) ↗

authoritiesnounThe organization that is the governing authority of a political unit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The matter was referred to higher authorities.

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

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

USAGE EXAMPLE

He has the authority to issue warrants.

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) ↗

authorizedadjectiveSanctioned by established authority.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The authorized biography.

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

authorshipnounThe act of creating written works.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a matter of disputed authorship.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

autocraticadjectiveCharacteristic of an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Autocratic government.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

automateverbMake automatic or control or operate automatically.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Automate the movement of the robot.

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

automatedadjectiveOperated by automation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An automated stoker.

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

automaticadjectiveOperating with minimal human intervention; independent of external control.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Automatic transmission.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

automaticallyadverbIn a reflex manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He answered automatically.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, French, 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) ↗

automationnounThe act of implementing the control of equipment with advanced technology; usually involving electronic hardware.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Automation replaces human workers by machines.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

automatonnounSomeone who acts or responds in a mechanical or apathetic way.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Only an automaton wouldn't have noticed.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

automotiveadjectiveOf or relating to motor vehicles.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Automotive supplies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

autonomousadjectiveExisting as an independent entity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The partitioning of India created two separate and autonomous jute economies.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

autopilotnounA cognitive state in which you act without self-awareness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She talked and he dozed and my mind went on autopilot.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Byzantine Greek, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Middle Chinese, 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) ↗

autumnaladjectiveOf or characteristic of or occurring in autumn.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The autumnal equinox.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Etruscan, Hindi, 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) ↗

auxiliaryadjectiveFunctioning in a supporting capacity.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The main library and its auxiliary branches.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

availverbBe of use to, be useful to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It will avail them to dispose of their booty.

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) ↗

availableadjectiveObtainable or accessible and ready for use or service.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Available in many colors.

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) ↗

avalanchenounA sudden appearance of an overwhelming number of things.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The program brought an avalanche of mail.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

avatarnounA new personification of a familiar idea.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The very avatar of cunning.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Sanskrit.

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

avenuenounA line of approach.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They explored every avenue they could think of.

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) ↗

averageadjectiveLacking exceptional quality or ability.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A novel of average merit.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

averseadjective(usually followed by `to') strongly opposed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Averse to taking risks.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

aversiveadjectiveTending to repel or dissuade.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Aversive conditioning.

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

avertingnounThe act of turning yourself (or your gaze) away.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Averting her gaze meant that she was angry.

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

avidadjectiveMarked by active interest and enthusiasm.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An avid sports fan.

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

avidlyadverbIn an avid manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Whatever the flavor or color of your local paper, do remember that these are read avidly for local information.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

avionicsnounScience and technology of electronic systems and devices for aeronautics and astronautics.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Avionics has become even more important with the development of the space program.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin, New 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) ↗

avoidverbStay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her former friends now avoid her.

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) ↗

avowedlyadverbBy open declaration.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their policy has been avowedly Marxist.

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) ↗

awakeadjectiveNot in a state of sleep; completely conscious.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Still not fully awake.

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

awakenedadjectiveAroused or activated.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An awakened interest in ballet.

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

awakeningnounThe act of waking.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was an early awakening.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awardnounA tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An award for bravery.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

awardingnounA grant made by a law court.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He criticized the awarding of compensation by the court.

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

awareadjective(sometimes followed by `of') having or showing knowledge or understanding or realization or perception.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Became aware of her surroundings.

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) ↗

awarenessnounHaving knowledge of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had no awareness of his mistakes.

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) ↗

awashadjectiveCovered with water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The main deck was afloat (or awash).

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) ↗

awayadverbFrom one's possession.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Gave away the tickets.

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) ↗

awenounAn overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He stared over the edge with a feeling of awe.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awedadjectiveInspired by a feeling of fearful wonderment or reverence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Awed by the silence.

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

awesomeadjectiveInspiring awe or admiration or wonder.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The awesome complexity of the universe.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awestruckadjectiveHaving or showing a feeling of mixed reverence and respect and wonder and dread.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In grim despair and awestruck wonder.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awfuladjectiveInspiring awe or admiration or wonder.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This sea, whose gently awful stirrings seem to speak of some hidden soul beneath.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awhileadverbFor a short time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sit down and stay awhile.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

awkwardadjectiveCausing inconvenience.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They arrived at an awkward time.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awkwardnessnounThe quality of an embarrassing situation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He sensed the awkwardness of his proposal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

awoladjectiveAbsent without permission.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The soldier was AWOL for almost a week.

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

awryadjectiveTurned or twisted toward one side.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A...youth with a gorgeous red necktie all awry.

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) ↗

axiomaticadjectiveEvident without proof or argument.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An axiomatic truth.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

babynounA very young child (birth to 1 year) who has not yet begun to walk or talk.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The baby began to cry again.

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) ↗

babyishadjectiveCharacteristic of a baby.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Babyish tears and petulance.

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) ↗

backnounThe posterior part of a human (or animal) body from the neck to the end of the spine.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His back was nicely tanned.

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

backboardnounA raised vertical board with basket attached; used to play basketball.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He banked the shot off the backboard.

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

backbonenounThe part of a network that connects other networks together.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The backbone is the part of a communication network that carries the heaviest traffic.

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

backfireverbCome back to the originator of an action with an undesired effect.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Your comments may backfire and cause you a lot of trouble.

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

backgroundnounA person's social heritage: previous experience or training.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He is a lawyer with a sports background.

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

backhandedadjectiveRoundabout or ambiguous.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A backhanded and dishonest way of reaching his goal.

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

backingnounThe act of providing approval and support.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His vigorous backing of the conservatives got him in trouble with progressives.

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

backlashnounAn adverse reaction to some political or social occurrence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a backlash of intolerance.

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

backlessadjectiveLacking a back.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A stool is a backless and armless seat.

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

backpackingnounCarrying something in a pack on the back.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The backpacking of oxygen is essential for astronauts.

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

backseatnounA secondary or inferior position or status.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tennis has had to take a backseat while his work is so demanding.

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

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

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