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Words 7801–7900 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

shiveringadjectiveVibrating slightly and irregularly; as e.g. with fear or cold or like the leaves of an aspen in a breeze.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sparkling light from the shivering crystals of the chandelier.

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

shocknounThe feeling of distress and disbelief that you have when something bad happens accidentally.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was numb with shock.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, Middle French, 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) ↗

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

USAGE EXAMPLE

The most shocking book of its time.

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

shoddyadjectiveDesigned to deceive or mislead either deliberately or inadvertently.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shoddy business practices.

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) ↗

shoeshinenounThe act of shining shoes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He charged a dollar for a shoeshine.

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) ↗

shoestringnounA small amount of money.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He managed it on a shoestring.

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) ↗

shootnounThe act of shooting at targets.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They hold a shoot every weekend during the summer.

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) ↗

shootingnounThe act of firing a projectile.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His shooting was slow but accurate.

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) ↗

shopnounA mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He bought it at a shop on Cape Cod.

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) ↗

shoppingnounSearching for or buying goods or services.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Went shopping for a reliable plumber.

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

shopwornadjectiveWorn or faded from being on display in a store.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shopworn merchandise at half price.

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) ↗

shoreverbSupport by placing against something solid or rigid.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shore and buttress an old building.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, Middle English, Middle Low German, 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) ↗

shornadjectiveHaving the hair or wool cut or clipped off as if with shears or clippers.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Picked up the baby's shorn curls from the floor.

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

shortadjectivePrimarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Only a few short months.

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) ↗

shortenverbBecome short or shorter.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In winter, the days shorten.

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) ↗

shortenedadjectiveCut short in duration.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her shortened life was clearly the result of smoking.

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

shorteningnounAct of decreasing in length.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The dress needs shortening.

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

shortlyadverbFor a short time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was at the airport shortly before she was expected to arrive.

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) ↗

shortnessnounThe property of being of short spatial extent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shortness of the Channel crossing.

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) ↗

shortsightedadjectiveLacking foresight or scope.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shortsighted policies.

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

shotnounA solid missile discharged from a firearm.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The shot buzzed past his ear.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old English.

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

shouldernounA narrow edge of land (usually unpaved) along the side of a road.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The car pulled off onto the shoulder.

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) ↗

shoutverbUtter in a loud voice; talk in a loud voice (usually denoting characteristic manner of speaking).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My grandmother is hard of hearing--you'll have to shout.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

shoutedadjectiveIn a vehement outcry.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His shouted words of encouragement could be heard over the crowd noises.

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

shoutingnounEncouragement in the form of cheers from spectators.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It's all over but the shouting.

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

shovenounThe act of shoving (giving a push to someone or something).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the door a shove.

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) ↗

showverbMake visible or noticeable.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Show me your etchings, 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) ↗

showcasenounA setting in which something can be displayed to best effect.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a showcase for democracy in Africa.

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) ↗

showernounA plumbing fixture that sprays water over you.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They installed a shower in the bathroom.

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) ↗

showroomnounAn area where merchandise (such as cars) can be displayed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In Britain a showroom is called a salesroom.

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) ↗

showyadjectiveMarked by ostentation but often tasteless.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A cheap showy rhinestone bracelet.

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) ↗

shrewdadjectiveMarked by practical hardheaded intelligence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was too shrewd to go along with them on a road that could lead only to their overthrow.

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) ↗

shrilladjectiveOf colors that are bright and gaudy.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A shrill turquoise.

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) ↗

shrinkverbReduce in size; reduce physically.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you shrink this image?

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) ↗

shrinkagenounThe act of stealing goods that are on display in a store.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shrinkage is the retail trade's euphemism for shoplifting.

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.

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

shriveledadjective(used especially of vegetation) having lost all moisture.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Shriveled leaves on the unwatered seedlings.

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

shrunkenadjectiveReduced in efficacy or vitality or intensity.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The dollar's shrunken buying power.

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

shuntnounA passage by which a bodily fluid (especially blood) is diverted from one channel to another.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An arteriovenus shunt.

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) ↗

shutadjectiveUsed especially of mouth or eyes.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His eyes were shut against the sunlight.

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) ↗

shutteredadjectiveProvided with shutters or shutters as specified; often used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Green-shuttered cottages.

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

shynounA quick throw.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the ball a shy to the first baseman.

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) ↗

sickadjectiveHaving a strong distaste from surfeit.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sick to death of flattery.

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) ↗

sickeningadjectiveCausing or able to cause nausea.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sickening stench.

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

sicknessnounDefectiveness or unsoundness.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A great sickness of his judgment.

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) ↗

sidenounA place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He never left my side.

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) ↗

sideshownounA subordinate incident of little importance relative to the main event.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Instruction is not an educational sideshow.

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) ↗

sidewaysadverbToward one side.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The car slipped sideways into the ditch.

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

sidewiseadverbToward one side.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A figure moving sidewise in the shadows.

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) ↗

sidleverbMove unobtrusively or furtively.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The young man began to sidle near the pretty girl sitting on the log.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

siftverbDistinguish and separate out.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sift through the job candidates.

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) ↗

sighnounA sound like a person sighing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She heard the sigh of the wind in the trees.

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) ↗

sightnounAn instance of visual perception.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The train was an unexpected sight.

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) ↗

signnounHaving an indicated pole (as the distinction between positive and negative electric charges).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Charges of opposite sign.

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) ↗

signagenounSigns collectively (especially commercial signs or posters).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

There will be signage displayed at each post.

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.

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

signalnounAny incitement to action.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He awaited the signal to start.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

significancenounThe quality of being significant.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Do not underestimate the significance of nuclear power.

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

significantadjectiveImportant in effect or meaning.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Significant details.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

significantlyadverbIn a statistically significant way.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The two groups differed significantly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

signifiednounThe meaning of a word or expression; the way in which a word or expression or situation can be interpreted.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The signifier is linked to the signified.

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

signifyverbConvey or express a meaning.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

What does his strange behavior signify?

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) ↗

silencenounThe state of being silent (as when no one is speaking).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gestured for silence.

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) ↗

silencedadjectiveReduced to silence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The silenced crowd waited expectantly.

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

silentadjectiveFailing to speak or communicate etc when expected to.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The witness remained silent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

silhouettenounThe dark outline of something against a lighter background.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The silhouette of a bird appeared against the sunset.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

sillyadjectiveDazed from or as if from repeated blows.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Knocked silly by the impact.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

silverplateverbPlate with silver.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Silverplate a watch.

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

silveryadjectiveHaving the white lustrous sheen of silver.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Repeated scrubbings have given the wood a silvery sheen.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: German, Middle English, Middle High German, Old English, Old 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) ↗

similaradjectiveMarked by correspondence or resemblance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They wore similar coats.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

similarlyadverbIn like or similar manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He was similarly affected.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

simmernounTemperature just below the boiling point.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The stew remained at a simmer for hours.

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) ↗

simpleadjectiveHaving few parts; not complex or complicated or involved.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A simple substance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

simplexadjectiveHaving only one part or element.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A simplex word has no affixes and is not part of a compound--like `boy' compared with `boyish' or `house' compared with `houseboat'.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

simplicitynounThe quality of being simple or uncompounded.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The simplicity of a crystal.

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) ↗

simplifyverbMake simpler or easier or reduce in complexity or extent.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This move will simplify our lives.

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

simplisticadjectiveCharacterized by extreme and often misleading simplicity.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A simplistic theory of the universe.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

simplyadverbAnd nothing more.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is simply a matter of time.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

simulatedadjectiveNot genuine or real; being an imitation of the genuine article.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A purse of simulated alligator hide.

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

simulationnoun(computer science) the technique of representing the real world by a computer program.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A simulation should imitate the internal processes and not merely the results of the thing being simulated.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

simultaneouslyadverbAt the same instant.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They spoke simultaneously.

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) ↗

sincereadjectiveOpen and genuine; not deceitful.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sincere friendship.

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) ↗

sincerelyadverbWith sincerity; without pretense.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She praised him sincerely for his victory.

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) ↗

sinceritynounThe quality of being open and truthful; not deceitful or hypocritical.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His sincerity inspired belief.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

singleadjectiveNot divided among or brought to bear on more than one object or objective.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A single devotion to duty.

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) ↗

singlyadverbOne by one; one at a time.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were arranged singly.

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) ↗

singularadjectiveUnusual or striking.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Such poise is singular in one so young.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

singularitynounThe quality of being one of a kind.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That singularity distinguished him from all his companions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

singularlyadverbIn a singular manner or to a singular degree.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Lord T. was considered singularly licentious even for the courts of Russia and Portugal; he acquired three wives and fourteen children during his Portuguese embassy alone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sinisteradjectiveThreatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sinister storm clouds.

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) ↗

sinknoun(technology) a process that acts to absorb or remove energy or a substance from a system.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ocean is a sink for carbon dioxide.

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) ↗

sinkingnounA slow fall or decline (as for lack of strength).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He could not control the sinking of his legs.

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

sisternounA female person who has the same parents as another person.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My sister married a musician.

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) ↗

sitverbBe in session.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

When does the court of law sit?

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) ↗

sitenounThe piece of land on which something is located (or is to be located).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A good site for the school.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

sittingnounThe act of assuming or maintaining a seated position.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He read the mystery at one sitting.

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) ↗

situationnounThe general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The present international situation is dangerous.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

sixfoldadverbBy a factor of six.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The population of this town increased sixfold when gold was found in the surrounding hills.

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) ↗

sizenounThe physical magnitude of something (how big it is).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A wolf is about the size of a large dog.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sizzlingadjectiveHot enough to burn with or as if with a hissing sound.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sizzling spell of weather.

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

skateverbMove along on skates.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Dutch often skate along the canals in winter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

skeletaladjectiveOf or relating to or forming or attached to a skeleton.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The skeletal system.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Hindi, New Latin, Norwegian. The source may 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.