Spell Bee Practice.My learning path
THE US ENGLISH PRACTICE BANK

Meet your next word.

Tap to listen. Shuffle to discover. Explore more than 10,000 words with definitions, examples, and a consistent American English voice.

Want a path through the words?

Learn 1,000 words in a saved grade journey, ten at a time.

Open Spell Quest →

Explore past bee words and study guides →

Pick a speaker to listen, or shuffle a fresh set of 12.

Words 8001–8100 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
snarenounSomething (often something deceptively attractive) that catches you unawares.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was all a snare and delusion.

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) ↗

snatchnounThe act of catching an object with the hands.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Martin's snatch at the bridle failed and the horse raced away.

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) ↗

sneakingadjectiveNot openly expressed.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sneaking suspicion.

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

sneeringadjectiveExpressive of contempt.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Spoke in a sneering jeering manner.

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

sneezeverbExhale spasmodically, as when an irritant entered one's nose.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pepper makes me sneeze.

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) ↗

snideadjectiveExpressive of contempt.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Makes many a sharp comparison but never a mean or snide one.

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

sniffyadjectiveHaving or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Very sniffy about breaches of etiquette.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

snoopyadjectiveOffensively curious or inquisitive.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The snoopy neighbor watched us all day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Dutch.

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

snorternounSomething that is extraordinary or remarkable or prominent.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A snorter of a sermon.

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) ↗

snottyadjective(used colloquially) overly conceited or arrogant.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A snotty little scion of a degenerate 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) ↗

snowboardverbGlide down a snow-covered slope while standing on a board.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The children love to snowboard in winter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Dutch, 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) ↗

snowshoeverbTravel on snowshoes.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

After a heavy snowfall, we have to snowshoe to the grocery store.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Dutch, 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) ↗

snowyadjectiveCovered with snow.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A long snowy winter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

snubnounA refusal to recognize someone you know.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The snub was clearly intentional.

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) ↗

snugadjectiveEnjoying or affording comforting warmth and shelter especially in a small space.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A snug little apartment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

snuggledadjectiveDrawn or pressed close to someone or something for or as if for affection or protection.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Like a baby snuggled in its mother's arms.

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

snuglyadverbFitting closely.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The vest fit snugly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

soaknounThe process of becoming softened and saturated as a consequence of being immersed in water (or other liquid).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A good soak put life back in the wagon.

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) ↗

soapyadjectiveResembling or having the qualities of soap.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A soapy consistency.

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) ↗

soaringadjectiveOf imposing height; especially standing out above others.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The soaring spires of the cathedral.

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

soberadjectiveDignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

As sober as a judge.

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) ↗

soberingadjectiveTending to make sober or more serious.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The news had a sobering effect.

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

soberlyadverbIn a grave and sober manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He walked soberly toward the altar.

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) ↗

sociableadjectiveFriendly and pleasant.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sociable gathering.

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) ↗

socialadjectiveRelating to human society and its members.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Social legislation.

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) ↗

socialisticadjectiveAdvocating or following the socialist principles.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Socialistic government.

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) ↗

socializeverbTake part in social activities; interact with others.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The old man hates to socialize.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

socializedadjectiveUnder group or government control.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Socialized medicine.

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

sociallyadverbBy or with respect to society.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Socially accepted norms.

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) ↗

societaladjectiveRelating to human society and its members.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Societal evolution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

societynounA formal association of people with similar interests.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They formed a small lunch society.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

socioeconomicadjectiveInvolving social as well as economic factors.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Socioeconomic status.

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) ↗

sociologicaladjectiveOf or relating to or determined by sociology.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sociological studies.

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

soddenadjectiveWet through and through; thoroughly wet.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The speaker's sodden collar.

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) ↗

softadjectiveCompassionate and kind; conciliatory.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was soft on his children.

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) ↗

softenverbBecome soft or softer.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it.

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) ↗

softeningnounThe process of becoming softer.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He observed the softening of iron by heat.

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) ↗

softlyadverbWith low volume.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The radio was playing softly.

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) ↗

softnessnounA disposition to be lenient in judging others.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Softness is not something permitted of good leaders.

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) ↗

softwarenoun(computer science) written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The market for software is expected to expand.

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) ↗

soilnounMaterial in the top layer of the surface of the earth in which plants can grow (especially with reference to its quality or use).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Good agricultural soil.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

soldadjectiveDisposed of to a purchaser.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

This merchandise is sold.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

soleadjectiveNot divided or shared with others.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sole rights of publication.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

solelyadverbWithout any others being included or involved.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Did it solely for money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

solemnadjectiveDignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The judge was solemn as he pronounced sentence.

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) ↗

solemnlyadverbIn a grave and sedate manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The judge sat there solemnly.

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) ↗

solicitverbMake a solicitation or petition for something desired.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She is too shy to solicit.

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) ↗

solicitationnounAn entreaty addressed to someone of superior status.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A solicitation to the king for relief.

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) ↗

solicitousadjectiveShowing hovering attentiveness.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Solicitous about her health.

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) ↗

solidadjectiveOf definite shape and volume; firm; neither liquid nor gaseous.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Ice is water in the solid state.

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) ↗

soliditynounThe quality of being solid and reliable financially or factually or morally.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The solidity of the evidence worked in his favor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

solidlyadverbWith strength and soundness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A solidly built house.

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) ↗

solitaryadjectiveCharacterized by or preferring solitude.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A man of a solitary disposition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

soloadjectiveComposed or performed by a single voice or instrument.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A passage for solo clarinet.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Italian, 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) ↗

solubleadjectiveSusceptible of solution or of being solved or explained.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The puzzle is soluble.

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) ↗

solutionnounA method for solving a problem.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The easy solution is to look it up in the handbook.

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) ↗

solvableadjectiveCapable of being solved.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Such problems are perfectly solvable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

solveverbFind the solution to (a problem or question) or understand the meaning of.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Did you solve the problem?

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) ↗

solvedadjectiveExplained or answered.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Mysteries solved and unsolved; problems resolved and unresolved.

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

solventnounA liquid substance capable of dissolving other substances.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The solvent does not change its state in forming a solution.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

somaticadjectiveAffecting or characteristic of the body as opposed to the mind or spirit.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A somatic symptom or somatic illness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

somberadjectiveLacking brightness or color; dull.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Children in somber brown clothes.

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

somberlyadverbIn a somber manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

`That's sure bad news,' said Dowd, somberly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

someadjectiveQuantifier; used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Having some friends over.

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) ↗

somedayadverbSome unspecified time in the future.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Someday you will understand my actions.

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

somehowadverbIn some unspecified way or manner; or by some unspecified means.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They managed somehow.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sometimeadverbAt some indefinite or unstated time.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's get together sometime.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

sometimesadverbOn certain occasions or in certain cases but not always.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sometimes her photography is breathtaking.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

somewhatadverbTo a small degree or extent.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His arguments were somewhat self-contradictory.

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) ↗

somewhereadverbIn or at or to some place.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She must be somewhere.

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) ↗

somnolentadjectiveInclined to or marked by drowsiness.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sound had a somnolent effect.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sonnounA male human offspring.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Their son became a famous judge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sonarnounA measuring instrument that sends out an acoustic pulse in water and measures distances in terms of the time for the echo of the pulse to return.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sonar is an acronym for sound navigation ranging.

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

songnounThe act of singing.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

With a shout and a song they marched up to the gates.

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) ↗

sonorousadjectiveFull and loud and deep.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A herald chosen for his sonorous voice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

soonadverbIn the near future.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The doctor will soon be here.

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) ↗

sooneradverbComparatives of `soon' or `early'.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Come a little sooner, if you can.

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

soonestadverbWith the least delay.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The soonest I can arrive is 3 P.M.

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

soothingadjectiveAffording physical relief.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A soothing ointment for her sunburn.

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

soothinglyadverbIn a soothing manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The mother talked soothingly to her child.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

sopnounA concession given to mollify or placate.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The offer was a sop to my feelings.

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) ↗

sophisticateverbAlter and make impure, as with the intention to deceive.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sophisticate rose water with geraniol.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sophisticatedadjectiveHaving or appealing to those having worldly knowledge and refinement and savoir-faire.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sophisticated book.

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

sophomoreadjectiveUsed of the second year in United States high school or college.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His sophomore year.

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

sordidadjectiveMorally degraded.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sordid details of his orgies stank under his very nostrils.

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

soreadjectiveRoused to anger.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sore over a remark.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

sorelyadverbTo a great degree.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I missed him sorely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

sorrownounAn emotion of great sadness associated with loss or bereavement.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He tried to express his sorrow at 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) ↗

sorrowfuladjectiveExperiencing or marked by or expressing sorrow especially that associated with irreparable loss.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sorrowful tale of death and despair.

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) ↗

sorryadjectiveBad; unfortunate.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sorry state of affairs.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sortnounAn approximate definition or example.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She wore a sort of magenta dress.

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) ↗

sortingnounAn operation that segregates items into groups according to a specified criterion.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The bottleneck in mail delivery is the process of sorting.

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

soughtadjectiveThat is looked for.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The long sought relatives.

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

soulnounA secular form of gospel that was a major Black musical genre in the 1960s and 1970s.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Soul was politically significant during the Civil Rights movement.

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) ↗

soundnounThe particular auditory effect produced by a given cause.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The beautiful sound of music.

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) ↗

soundingadjectiveAppearing to be as specified; usually used as combining forms.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Fine-sounding phrases.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

soundlyadverbCompletely and absolutely (`good' is sometimes used informally for `thoroughly').intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was soundly defeated.

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) ↗

soupnounAn unfortunate situation.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We're in the soup now.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

souradjectiveInaccurate in pitch.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A false (or sour) note.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sourcenounThe place where something begins, where it springs into being.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pittsburgh is the source of the Ohio River.

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) ↗

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