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Words 7501–7600 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

rusticadjectiveCharacteristic of rural life.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Rustic awkwardness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

rutnounA settled and monotonous routine that is hard to escape.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They fell into a conversational rut.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

ruthlessadjectiveWithout mercy or pity.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An act of ruthless ferocity.

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) ↗

ruthlesslyadverbIn a ruthless manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The government has been urged to take immediate action to deal ruthlessly with the strikers.

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) ↗

sabbaticaladjectiveOf or relating to the Sabbath.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Friday is a sabbatical day for Muslims.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

sacredadjectiveMade or declared or believed to be holy; devoted to a deity or some religious ceremony or use.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sacred bread and wine.

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) ↗

sacrificenounA loss entailed by giving up or selling something at less than its value.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had to sell his car at a considerable sacrifice.

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) ↗

sadadjectiveExperiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Feeling sad because his dog had died.

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) ↗

saddledadjectiveSubject to an imposed burden.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Left me saddled with the bill.

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

sadlyadverbIn an unfortunate way.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sadly he died before he could see his grandchild.

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) ↗

sadnessnounThe state of being sad.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She tired of his perpetual sadness.

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) ↗

safeadjectiveFree from danger or the risk of harm.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You will be safe here.

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) ↗

safeguardnounA precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury etc.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An insurance policy is a good safeguard.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

safelyadverbWith safety; in a safe manner.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are safely out of there.

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) ↗

safetynounThe state of being certain that adverse effects will not be caused by some agent under defined conditions.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The reciprocal of safety is risk.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sagnounA shape that sags.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a sag in the chair seat.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

saidadjectiveBeing the one previously mentioned or spoken of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Said party has denied the charges.

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) ↗

sailverbTravel on water propelled by wind or by other means.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The QE2 will sail to Southampton tomorrow.

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) ↗

saintlyadjectiveMarked by utter benignity; resembling or befitting an angel or saint.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A saintly concern for his fellow men.

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) ↗

sakenounA reason for wanting something done.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Died for the sake of his country.

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) ↗

salaciousadjectiveSuggestive of or tending to moral looseness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Salacious limericks.

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) ↗

salariedadjectiveReceiving a salary.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Salaried members of the staff.

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) ↗

salenounA particular instance of selling.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He has just made his first sale.

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) ↗

saleableadjectiveCapable of being sold; fit for sale.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Saleable at a low price.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Middle English, Old English, Old French, Old Norse, 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) ↗

salesmanshipnounSkill in selling; skill in persuading people to buy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He read a book on salesmanship but it didn't help.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

salineadjectiveContaining salt.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A saline substance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sallynounA venture off the beaten path.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sally into the wide world beyond his home.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

saltwaternounWater containing salts.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The water in the ocean is all saltwater.

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) ↗

salutaryadjectiveTending to promote physical well-being; beneficial to health.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The salutary influence of pure air.

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) ↗

saluteverbExpress commendation of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I salute your courage!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

salvationnounA means of preserving from harm or unpleasantness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tourism was their economic salvation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

salvenounAnything that remedies or heals or soothes.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He needed a salve for his conscience.

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) ↗

salvonounA sudden outburst of cheers.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a salvo of approval.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

sameadjectiveClosely similar or comparable in kind or quality or quantity or degree.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The same day next year.

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) ↗

samenessnounThe quality of being alike.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sameness of purpose kept them together.

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) ↗

samplernounAn assortment of various samples.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sampler of French poets.

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) ↗

sanctimoniousadjectiveExcessively or hypocritically pious.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sickening sanctimonious smile.

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) ↗

sanctumnounA place of inviolable privacy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He withdrew to his sanctum sanctorum, where the children could never go.

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

saneadjectiveMentally healthy; free from mental disorder.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Appears to be completely sane.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

sanguineadjectiveInclined to a healthy reddish color often associated with outdoor life.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fresh and sanguine complexion.

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) ↗

sanitaryadjectiveFree from filth and pathogens.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sanitary washroom.

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) ↗

sarcasmnounWitty language used to convey insults or scorn.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He used sarcasm to upset his opponent.

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

sardonicadjectiveDisdainfully or ironically humorous; scornful and mocking.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His rebellion is the bitter, sardonic laughter of all great satirists.

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

sassnounAn impudent or insolent rejoinder.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't give me any of your sass.

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

satelliteadjectiveSurrounding and dominated by a central authority or power.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A city and its satellite communities.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Etruscan, 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) ↗

satirenounWitty language used to convey insults or scorn.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Satire is a sort of glass, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own.

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) ↗

satiricaladjectiveExposing human folly to ridicule.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A persistent campaign of mockery by the satirical fortnightly magazine.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, Latin, Middle English, 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) ↗

satisfactionnounThe contentment one feels when one has fulfilled a desire, need, or expectation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The chef tasted the sauce with great satisfaction.

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) ↗

satisfactoryadjectiveGiving satisfaction.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His grades were satisfactory.

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) ↗

satisfiedadjectiveFilled with satisfaction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A satisfied customer.

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) ↗

saturatedadjectiveBeing the most concentrated solution possible at a given temperature; unable to dissolve still more of a substance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A saturated solution.

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

saturationnounThe process of totally saturating something with a substance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The saturation of cotton with ether.

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

saunternounA careless leisurely gait.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He walked with a kind of saunter as if he hadn't a care in the world.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

savagelyadverbWildly; like an animal.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She cried out savagely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle 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) ↗

savagerynounThe property of being untamed and ferocious.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A craving for barbaric splendor, for savagery and color and the throb of drums.

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

saveverbMake unnecessary an expenditure or effort.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This will save money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

savingnounAn act of economizing; reduction in cost.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There was a saving of 50 cents.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

savoringnounTaking a small amount into the mouth to test its quality.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Cooking was fine but it was the savoring that he enjoyed most.

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

savoryadjectiveMorally wholesome or acceptable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A past that was scarcely savory.

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) ↗

sayverbExpress a supposition.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Let us say that he did not tell the truth.

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

scalableadjectiveCapable of being scaled; possible to scale.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The scalable slope of a mountain.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Latin, Middle English, Old French, Old High German, Old Norse, 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) ↗

scalaradjectiveOf or relating to a musical scale.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He played some basic scalar patterns on his guitar.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

scaldverbTreat with boiling water.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scald tomatoes so that they can be peeled.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

scalenounRelative magnitude.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They entertained on a grand scale.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

scallopverbShape or cut in scallops.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scallop the hem of the dress.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

scalpnounThe skin that covers the top of the head.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They wanted to take his scalp as a trophy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

scalpernounSomeone who buys something and resells it at a price far above the initial cost.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He got theater tickets through a scalper.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

scannounThe act of scanning; systematic examination of a prescribed region.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He made a thorough scan of the beach with his binoculars.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

scandalousadjectiveGiving offense to moral sensibilities and injurious to reputation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scandalous behavior.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French.

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

scantadjectiveLess than the correct or legal or full amount often deliberately so.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A scant cup of sugar.

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) ↗

scarceadverbOnly a very short time before.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Would have scarce arrived before she would have found some excuse to leave.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

scarcelyadverbOnly a very short time before.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Had scarcely rung the bell when the door flew open.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

scarredadjectiveBlemished by injury or rough wear.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The scarred piano bench.

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

scathingadjectiveMarked by harshly abusive criticism.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His scathing remarks about silly lady novelists.

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

scatologicaladjectiveDealing pruriently with excrement and excretory functions.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scatological literature.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

scatterverbStrew or distribute over an area.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scatter cards across the table.

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) ↗

scatteredadjectiveOccurring or distributed over widely spaced and irregular intervals in time or space.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scattered villages.

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

scenarionounA setting for a work of art or literature.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The scenario is France during the Reign of Terror.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Italian, 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) ↗

scenenounThe place where some action occurs.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The police returned to the scene of the crime.

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) ↗

scenerynounThe painted structures of a stage set that are intended to suggest a particular locale.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They worked all night painting the scenery.

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

scentedadjectiveHaving the sense of smell.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Keen-scented hounds.

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

schemingadjectiveConcealing crafty designs for advancing your own interest.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A scheming gold digger.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

schismnounDivision of a group into opposing factions.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Another schism like that and they will wind up in bankruptcy.

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) ↗

schizophrenicadjectiveSuffering from some form of schizophrenia.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Schizophrenic patients.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, German, Latin, Middle English, 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) ↗

scholarlyadjectiveCharacteristic of scholars or scholarship.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scholarly pursuits.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late Latin, Latin, Middle Dutch, Middle English, Old Dutch, 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) ↗

scholasticadjectiveOf or relating to the philosophical doctrine of scholasticism.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scholastic philosophy.

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) ↗

schoolnounA place where students go to learn.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Our school has a bright library.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sciencenounThe study of the natural world through observation and testing.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In science we tested how plants respond to light.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

scientificadjectiveConforming with the principles or methods used in science.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A scientific approach.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval 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) ↗

scientificallyadverbWith respect to science; in a scientific way.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This is scientifically interesting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

scionnounA descendent or heir.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A scion of royal stock.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

scoopnounA large ladle.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He used a scoop to serve the ice cream.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

scopenounAn area in which something acts or operates or has power or control: "the range of a supersonic jet".beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Within the scope of an investigation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Italian, 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) ↗

scorchedadjectiveDried out by heat or excessive exposure to sunlight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The earth was scorched and bare.

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

scorchingadverbCapable of causing burns.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was scorching hot.

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

scorenounA number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

What was your score on your homework?

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) ↗

scorelessadjectiveHaving no points scores.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A scoreless inning.

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) ↗

scotchadjectiveAvoiding waste.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

`scotch' is used only informally.

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) ↗

scourverbRub hard or scrub.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scour the counter tops.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Medieval Latin, Middle Dutch, Middle 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) ↗

scouringnounMoving over territory to search for something.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Scouring the entire area revealed nothing.

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

No matching words.