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Words 7401–7500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

rigorousadjectiveDemanding strict attention to rules and procedures.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rigorous discipline.

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

rigorouslyadverbIn a rigorous manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had been trained rigorously by the monks.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

riledadjectiveAroused to impatience or anger.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Riled no end by his lies.

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

rimnoun(basketball) the hoop from which the net is suspended.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ball hit the rim and bounced off.

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) ↗

rimmedadjectiveHaving a rim or a rim of a specified kind.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Do you wear rimmed or rimless glasses?

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) ↗

ringnounA characteristic sound.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It has the ring of sincerity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, 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) ↗

ringsnounGymnastic apparatus consisting of a pair of heavy metal circles (usually covered with leather) suspended by ropes; used for gymnastic exercises.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rings require a strong upper body.

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

riotousadjectiveProduced or growing in extreme abundance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their riotous blooming.

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) ↗

ripnounThe act of rending or ripping or splitting something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the envelope a vigorous rip.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

ripeadjectiveFully prepared or eager.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The colonists were ripe for revolution.

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) ↗

rippingadjectiveResembling a sound of violent tearing as of something ripped apart or lightning splitting a tree.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The tree split with a great ripping sound.

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

rippledadjectiveShaken into waves or undulations as by wind.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rippled surface of the pond.

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

riseverbExert oneself to meet a challenge.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rise to a challenge.

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) ↗

risernounA person who rises (especially from bed).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He's usually a late riser.

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) ↗

risingadjectiveNewly come into prominence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A rising young politician.

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

riskverbExpose to a chance of loss or damage.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Why risk your life?

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

riskyadjectiveInvolving risk or danger.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Extremely risky going out in the tide and fog.

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

ritenounAn established ceremony prescribed by a religion.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rite of baptism.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

ritualadjectiveOf or relating to or employed in social rites or rituals.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A ritual dance of Haiti.

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

ritualisticadjectiveOf or characterized by or adhering to ritualism.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A feudal or ritualistic society.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

ritznounOstentatious display of elegance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They put on the ritz.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

rivalverbBe equal to in quality or ability.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Nothing can rival cotton for durability.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

rivernounA large natural stream of flowing water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The river flowed through the valley.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

roamverbMove about aimlessly or without any destination, often in search of food or employment.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The cattle roam across the prairie.

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) ↗

roaringadjectiveVery lively and profitable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Doing a roaring trade.

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

roastingnounCooking (meat) by dry heat in an oven (usually with fat added).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The slow roasting took several hours.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

robedadjectiveDressed or clothed especially in fine attire; often used in combination.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Professors robed in crimson.

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

roboticadjectiveOf or relating to mechanical robots.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Among our robotic devices is a vacuum cleaner.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Czech, German, Middle High German. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

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

robustadjectiveSturdy and strong in form, constitution, or construction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A robust perennial.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

robustlyadverbIn a robust manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was robustly built.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

robustnessnounThe characteristic of being strong enough to withstand intellectual challenge.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The lack of robustness in the findings may be due to the small size of the sample.

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) ↗

rocknounA lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He threw a rock at me.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Medieval Latin, Middle Dutch, Middle English, Middle Low German, Old English, Old Norse, 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) ↗

rockyadjectiveFull of hardship or trials.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rocky road to success.

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

rococoadjectiveHaving excessive asymmetrical ornamentation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An exquisite gilded rococo mirror.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

roiledadjectiveAroused to impatience or anger.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Roiled by the delay.

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

roilingadjective(of a liquid) agitated vigorously; in a state of turbulence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The river's roiling current.

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

rolenounNormal or customary activity of a person in a particular social setting.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

What is your role on the team?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

rollverbFlatten or spread with a roller.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Roll out the paper.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rollingadjectiveUttered with a trill.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She used rolling r's as in Spanish.

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

romanticadjectiveNot sensible about practical matters; idealistic and unrealistic.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A romantic disregard for money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

romanticizeverbInterpret romantically.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't romanticize this uninteresting and hard work!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

roofnounAn upper limit on what is allowed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a roof on salaries.

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) ↗

roofedadjectiveCovered with a roof; having a roof as specified (often used in combination).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Roofed picnic areas.

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

roomnounSpace for movement.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Hardly enough elbow room to turn around.

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) ↗

roominessnounSpatial largeness and extensiveness (especially inside a building).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Roominess in this size car is always a compromise.

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) ↗

roomyadjective(of buildings and rooms) having ample space.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A roomy but sparsely furnished apartment.

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) ↗

rootnounThe place where something begins, where it springs into being.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Communism's Russian root.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rootedadjectiveAbsolutely still.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They stood rooted in astonishment.

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

rootlessadjectiveWandering aimlessly without ties to a place or community.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A rootless wanderer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rootsnounThe condition of belonging to a particular place or group by virtue of social or ethnic or cultural lineage.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His music has African roots.

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

roseateadjectiveOf something having a dusty purplish pink color.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The roseate glow of dawn.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rotarynounA road junction at which traffic streams circularly around a central island.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The accident blocked all traffic at the rotary.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rotateverbPerform a job or duty on a rotating basis.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Interns have to rotate for a few months.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

rotationnounThe act of rotating as if on an axis.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rotation of the dancer kept time with the music.

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) ↗

rotationaladjectiveOf or pertaining to rotation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rotational inertia.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

rottenadjectiveHaving decayed or disintegrated; usually implies foulness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Dead and rotten in his grave.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rotternounA person who is deemed to be despicable or contemptible.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Only a rotter would do that.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rotundadjective(of sounds) full and rich.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The rotund and reverberating phrase.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

roughadjectiveHaving or caused by an irregular surface.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Trees with rough bark.

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) ↗

roughnessnounHarsh or severe speech or behavior.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The roughness of her voice was a signal to keep quiet.

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) ↗

roughshodadjectiveUnjustly domineering.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A manager who rode roughshod over all opposition.

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) ↗

roundadverbFrom beginning to end; throughout.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It rains all year round on Skye.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

roundaboutadjectiveDeviating from a straight course.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A roundabout route avoided rush-hour traffic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

roundlyadverbIn a round manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was roundly slim.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

roundtablenounA meeting of peers for discussion and exchange of views.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A roundtable on the future of computing.

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

roundupnounThe systematic gathering up of suspects by the police.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A mass roundup of suspects.

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

routverbCause to flee.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rout out the fighters from their caves.

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

routinenounA short theatrical performance that is part of a longer program.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She had a catchy little routine.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

routinelyadverbAccording to routine or established practice.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He routinely parked in a no-parking zone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

royaladjectiveBelonging to or befitting a supreme ruler.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Treated with royal acclaim.

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) ↗

royallyadverbIn a royal manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were royally treated.

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) ↗

royaltynounRoyal persons collectively.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The wedding was attended by royalty.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

rubverbMove over something with pressure.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rub oil into her skin.

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

rubberizeverbCoat or impregnate with rubber.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rubberize fabric for rain coats.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

rubricnounCategory name.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is usually discussed under the rubric of `functional obesity'.

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) ↗

rucknounA crowd especially of ordinary or undistinguished persons or things.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His brilliance raised him above the ruck.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

ruddyadjectiveInclined to a healthy reddish color often associated with outdoor life.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A ruddy complexion.

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) ↗

rudeadjective(used especially of commodities) being unprocessed or manufactured using only simple or minimal processes.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bales of rude cotton.

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) ↗

rudimentnounThe remains of a body part that was functional at an earlier stage of life.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Meckel's diverticulum is the rudiment of the embryonic yolk sac.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

rudimentaryadjectiveBeing or involving basic facts or principles.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

These rudimentary truths.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

ruenounSadness associated with some wrong done or some disappointment.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

To his rue, the error cost him the game.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

ruefullyadverbIn a rueful manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`I made a big mistake,' he said ruefully.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

ruffleverbTrouble or vex.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ruffle somebody's composure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

ruffledadjectiveShaken into waves or undulations as by wind.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With ruffled flags flying.

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

ruggedadjectiveSturdy and strong in constitution or construction; enduring.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With a house full of boys you have to have rugged furniture.

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) ↗

ruinnounAn irrecoverable state of devastation and destruction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You have brought ruin on this entire family.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

ruinedadjectiveBrought to ruin.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The unsuccessful run for office left him ruined politically and economically.

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

ruinousadjectiveExtremely harmful; bringing physical or financial ruin.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A ruinous course of action.

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) ↗

rulenounSomething regarded as a normative example.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Violence is the rule not the exception.

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) ↗

rumblingnounA loud low dull continuous noise.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They heard the rumbling of thunder.

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

ruminationnoun(of ruminants) chewing (the cud).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Ruminants have remarkable powers of rumination.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

rummagenounA thorough search for something (often causing disorder or confusion).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the attic a good rummage but couldn't find his skis.

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

rumpledadjectiveIn disarray; extremely disorderly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A rumpled unmade bed.

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

runverbMove fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't run--you'll be out of breath.

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) ↗

runenounAny character from an ancient Germanic alphabet used in Scandinavia from the 3rd century to the Middle Ages.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Each rune had its own magical significance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

runnernounA person who is employed to deliver messages or documents.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He sent a runner over with the contract.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Chinese, Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, 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) ↗

runningnoun(American football) a play in which a player attempts to carry the ball through or past the opposing team.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The coach put great emphasis on running.

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

runupnounA substantial increase over a relatively short period of time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A runup in interest rates.

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

ruraladjectiveLiving in or characteristic of farming or country life.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Unpaved rural roads.

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) ↗

rushverbUrge to an unnatural speed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't rush me, please!

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) ↗

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

No matching words.