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Words 7701–7800 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

sentencenounThe period of time a prisoner is imprisoned.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His sentence was 5 to 10 years.

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) ↗

sentimentaladjectiveEffusively or insincerely emotional.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sentimental soap operas.

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) ↗

separateverbTo divide or keep things apart.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Please separate the paper from the plastic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

separatedadjectiveBeing or feeling set or kept apart from others.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Thought of herself as alone and separated from the others.

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

separatenessnounPolitical independence.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Seeking complete political separateness for Taiwan.

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) ↗

separationnounSorting one thing from others.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The separation of wheat from chaff.

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) ↗

separatismnounA disposition toward schism and secession from a larger group; the principles and practices of separatists.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Separatism is a serious problem in Quebec.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

septicadjectiveContaining or resulting from disease-causing organisms.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A septic sore throat.

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

sequencenounSerial arrangement in which things follow in logical order or a recurrent pattern.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sequence of names was alphabetical.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

sequesteredadjectiveKept separate and secluded.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sequestered jury.

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

sequestrationnounThe act of segregating or sequestering.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sequestration of the jury.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

sereadjective(used especially of vegetation) having lost all moisture.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The desert was edged with sere vegetation.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

serendipitynounThe chance discovery of something valuable or pleasant.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Finding the lost photograph was pure serendipity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English, from the name Serendip

Original teaching entry.

sereneadjectiveCompletely clear and fine.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Serene skies and a bright blue sea.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

serenelyadverbIn a peacefully serene manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I had the feeling that he was waiting, too--serenely patient.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

serialadjectivePertaining to or occurring in or producing a series.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Serial publication.

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) ↗

serializeverbArrange serially.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Serialize the numbers.

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) ↗

seriesnounSimilar things placed in order or happening one after another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were investigating a series of bank robberies.

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

seriousadjectiveConcerned with work or important matters rather than play or trivialities.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A serious young man.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

seriouslyadverbIn a serious manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A play dealing seriously with the question of divorce.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

seriousnessnounThe quality of arousing fear or distress.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He learned the seriousness of his illness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

serrateverbMake saw-toothed or jag the edge of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Serrate the edges of the teeth.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

serveverbProvide (usually but not necessarily food).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We serve meals for the homeless.

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) ↗

servicenounAn act of help or assistance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He did them a service.

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) ↗

serviceableadjectiveReady for service or able to give long service.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Serviceable equipment.

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) ↗

servicesnounPerformance of duties or provision of space and equipment helpful to others.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The medical services are excellent.

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

servicingnounThe act of mating by male animals.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The bull was worth good money in servicing fees.

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

servileadjectiveSubmissive or fawning in attitude or behavior.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spoke in a servile tone.

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) ↗

sesquipedalianadjectiveCharacterized by the use of very long words.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The speech was amusingly sesquipedalian.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Latin

Original teaching entry.

sessionnounA meeting for execution of a group's functions.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was the opening session of the legislature.

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) ↗

setverbPut into a certain place or abstract location.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Set the dogs on the scent of the missing children.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

settingnounThe context and environment in which something is set.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The perfect setting for a ghost story.

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

settledadjectiveEstablished or decided beyond dispute or doubt.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With details of the wedding settled she could now sleep at night.

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

settlementnounSomething settled or resolved; the outcome of decision making.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They finally reached a settlement with the union.

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) ↗

setupnounThe way something is organized or arranged.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It takes time to learn the setup around here.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

seververbSet or keep apart.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sever a relationship.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

severaladjective(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Several letters came in the mail.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

severallyadverbApart from others.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The clothes were hung severally.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

severeadjectiveIntensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A severe case of flu.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

severelyadverbTo a severe or serious degree.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A severely impaired heart.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

severitynounExcessive sternness.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Severity of character.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

sewverbCreate (clothes) with cloth.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can the seamstress sew me a suit by next week?

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) ↗

sewingnounNeedlework on which you are working with needle and thread.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She put her sewing back in the basket.

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) ↗

shadenounRelative darkness caused by light rays being intercepted by an opaque body.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is much cooler in the shade.

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) ↗

shadedadjectiveProtected from heat and light with shade or shadow.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

O'er the shaded billows rushed the night.

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

shadesnounSpectacles that are darkened or polarized to protect the eyes from the glare of the sun.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was wearing a pair of mirrored shades.

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

shadownounRefuge from danger or observation.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He felt secure in his father's shadow.

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) ↗

shadowedadjectiveFilled with shade.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The surface of the pond is dark and shadowed.

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

shadowyadjectiveFilled with shade.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We sat on rocks in a shadowy cove.

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) ↗

shadyadjectiveFilled with shade.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shady side of the street.

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) ↗

shagnounA fabric with long coarse nap.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He bought a shag rug.

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) ↗

shakeverbBring to a specified condition by or as if by shaking.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shake the salt out of the salt shaker.

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) ↗

shakedownnounInitial adjustments to improve the functioning or the efficiency and to bring to a more satisfactory state.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The new industry's economic shakedown.

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

shakenadjectiveDisturbed psychologically as if by a physical jolt or shock.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The accident left her badly shaken.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Japanese, 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) ↗

shakeoutnounAn economic condition that results in the elimination of marginally financed participants in an industry.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They glutted the market in order to cause a shakeout of their competitors.

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) ↗

shakernounA person who wields power and influence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shaker of traditional beliefs.

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) ↗

shakeupnounThe imposition of a new organization; organizing differently (often involving extensive and drastic changes).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Top officials were forced out in the cabinet shakeup.

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) ↗

shakinessnounThe quality of being unstable and insecure.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shakiness of the present regime.

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) ↗

shakingnounA shaky motion.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shaking of his fingers as he lit his pipe.

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

shakyadjectiveInclined to shake as from weakness or defect.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A wobbly chair with shaky legs.

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) ↗

shallowadjectiveLacking physical depth; having little spatial extension downward or inward from an outer surface or backward or outward from a center.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Established a shallow beachhead.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

shamenounA state of dishonor.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

One mistake brought shame to all his family.

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) ↗

shamefuladjective(used of conduct or character) deserving or bringing disgrace or shame.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shameful display of cowardice.

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) ↗

shamelessadjectiveFeeling no shame.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shameless imposter.

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) ↗

shapenounThe spatial arrangement of something as distinct from its substance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Geometry is the mathematical science of shape.

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) ↗

shapedadjectiveHaving the shape of.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A square shaped playing field.

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) ↗

shapelessadjectiveHaving no definite form or distinct shape.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shapeless mass of protoplasm.

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) ↗

shapelyadjectiveHaving a well-proportioned and pleasing shape.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A slim waist and shapely legs.

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) ↗

sharenounAssets belonging to or due to or contributed by an individual person or group.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He wanted his share in cash.

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) ↗

sharedadjectiveHave in common; held or experienced in common.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shared interest in philately.

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

sharianounThe code of law derived from the Koran and from the teachings and example of Mohammed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sharia is only applicable to Muslims.

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

sharingnounHaving in common.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sharing of electrons creates molecules.

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

sharpadjective(of something seen or heard) clearly defined.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sharp crack of a twig.

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) ↗

sharpenverbMake crisp or more crisp and precise.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We had to sharpen our arguments.

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) ↗

sharpenedadjectiveMade sharp or sharper.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sharpened knife cuts more cleanly.

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

sharplyadverbIn an aggressive manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was being sharply questioned.

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) ↗

sharpnessnounThe quality of being keenly and painfully felt.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The sharpness of her loss.

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) ↗

shatteredadjectiveRuined or disrupted.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Our shattered dreams of peace and prosperity.

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

shatteringadjectiveSeemingly loud enough to break something; violently rattling or clattering.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shattering peal of artillery.

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

shearnoun(physics) a deformation of an object in which parallel planes remain parallel but are shifted in a direction parallel to themselves.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shear changed the quadrilateral into a parallelogram.

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) ↗

shearedadjective(used especially of fur or wool) shaped or finished by cutting or trimming to a uniform length.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A coat of sheared lamb.

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

sheathedadjectiveEnclosed in a protective covering; sometimes used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His sheathed sword.

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

sheepnounA docile and vulnerable person who would rather follow than make an independent decision.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His students followed him like sheep.

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) ↗

sheepishlyadverbIn a sheepish manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sheepishly he handed her back the money.

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) ↗

sheeradjectiveComplete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as intensifiers.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Got the job through sheer persistence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Dutch, Middle Dutch, Middle English, Old Dutch, 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) ↗

shellnounA rigid covering that envelops an object.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The satellite is covered with a smooth shell of ice.

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) ↗

shellingnounThe heavy fire of artillery to saturate an area rather than hit a specific target.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shelling went on for hours without pausing.

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

shelteredadjectiveProtected from danger or bad weather.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sheltered harbor.

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

shiftverbChange place or direction.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shift one's position.

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) ↗

shiftingadjectiveContinuously varying.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Taffeta with shifting colors.

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

shiftlessadjectiveLacking or characterized by lack of ambition or initiative; lazy.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shiftless student.

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) ↗

shimmernounA weak and tremulous light.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shimmer of colors on iridescent feathers.

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) ↗

shimmynounAn abnormal wobble in a motor vehicle (especially in the front wheels).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He could feel the shimmy in the steering wheel.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

shineverbThrow or flash the light of (a lamp).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shine the light on that window, please.

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) ↗

shiningadjectiveMarked by exceptional merit.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Had shining virtues and few faults.

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

shinyadjectiveReflecting light.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Saw the moon like a shiny dime on a deep blue velvet carpet.

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) ↗

shipboardadjectiveCasual or ephemeral as if taking place on board a ship.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shipboard romances.

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) ↗

shipshapeadjectiveOf places; characterized by order and neatness; free from disorder.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Even the barn was shipshape.

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) ↗

shipwrecknounAn irretrievable loss.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That was the shipwreck of their romance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

shivanoun(Judaism) a period of seven days of mourning after the death of close relative.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The family is sitting shiva.

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.