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Words 8101–8200 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

southboundadjectiveMoving toward the south.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A southbound train.

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

southerlyadjectiveFrom the south; used especially of wind.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A hot southerly wind.

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) ↗

southernadjectiveIn or characteristic of a region of the United States south of (approximately) the Mason-Dixon line.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Southern hospitality.

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) ↗

southpawnounA person who uses the left hand with greater skill than the right.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their pitcher was a southpaw.

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) ↗

spacenounThe unlimited expanse in which everything is located.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They tested his ability to locate objects in space.

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) ↗

spacedadjectiveArranged with spaces between; often used as a combining form.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Widely spaced eyes.

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

spacingnounThe time between occurrences of a repeating event.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Some women do not control the spacing of their children.

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

spaciousadjective(of buildings and rooms) having ample space.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A spacious ballroom.

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) ↗

spadenounA playing card in the major suit that has one or more black figures on it.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She led a low spade.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

spannounThe complete duration of something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The job was finished in the span of an hour.

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) ↗

spankingnounThe act of slapping on the buttocks.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave the brat a good spanking.

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) ↗

spareverbGive up what is not strictly needed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He asked if they could spare one of their horses to speed his journey.

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) ↗

sparingadjectiveAvoiding waste.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sparing father and a spending son.

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

sparkverbEmit or produce sparks.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A high tension wire, brought down by a storm, can continue to spark.

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) ↗

sparklenounMerriment expressed by a brightness or gleam or animation of countenance.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a sparkle in his eye.

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

sparklyadjectiveHaving brief brilliant points or flashes of light.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A dress with sparkly sequins.

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) ↗

sparselyadverbIn a sparse manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sparsely inhabited.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

spartanadjectivePracticing great self-denial.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A spartan existence.

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

spasmodicadjectiveAffected by involuntary jerky muscular contractions; resembling a spasm.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His body made a spasmodic jerk.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, New 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) ↗

spasticadjectiveRelating to or characterized by spasm.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spastic paralysis is a spastic form of cerebral palsy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

spatverbBecome permanently attached.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Mollusks or oysters spat.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

spatialadjectivePertaining to or involving or having the nature of space.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The spatial distribution of the population.

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) ↗

spatteredadjectiveCovered with bright patches (often used in combination).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A blood-spattered room.

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

speakverbUse language.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prisoner won't speak.

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) ↗

speakernounSomeone who expresses in language; someone who talks (especially someone who delivers a public speech or someone especially garrulous).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The speaker at commencement.

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) ↗

specialadjectiveUnique or specific to a person or thing or category.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My own special chair.

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) ↗

specializationnounThe special line of work you have adopted as your career.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His specialization is gastroenterology.

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) ↗

specializeverbSuit to a special purpose.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Specialize one's research.

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) ↗

specializedadjectiveDeveloped or designed for a special activity or function.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A specialized tool.

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

speciallyadverbIn a special manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A specially arranged dinner.

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) ↗

speciesnounA specific kind of something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A species of molecule.

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

specificadjective(sometimes followed by `to') applying to or characterized by or distinguishing something particular or special or unique.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Demands specific to the job.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

specificallyadverbIn distinction from others.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A program specifically for teenagers.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

specificitynounThe quality of being specific rather than general.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The specificity of the symptoms of the disease.

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

specifiedadjectiveClearly and explicitly stated.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Meals are at specified times.

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

specifyverbDecide upon or fix definitely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Specify the parameters.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

specimennounA bit of tissue or blood or urine that is taken for diagnostic purposes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They collected a urine specimen for urinalysis.

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

specknounA very small spot.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The plane was just a speck in the sky.

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) ↗

speckleverbMark with small spots.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Speckle the wall with tiny yellow spots.

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

spectaclenounSomething or someone seen (especially a notable or unusual sight).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The tragic spectacle of cripples trying to escape.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

spectacularadjectiveSensational in appearance or thrilling in effect.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a spectacular play.

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

spectacularlyadverbIn a spectacular manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The area was spectacularly scenic.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

spectraladjectiveResembling or characteristic of a phantom.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spectral emanations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi.

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

speculationnounAn investment that is very risky but could yield great profits.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He knew the stock was a speculation when he bought it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

speculativeadjectiveNot based on fact or investigation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Speculative knowledge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

speechnoun(language) communication by word of mouth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His speech was garbled.

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) ↗

speechifyverbMake speeches; hold forth, or harangue with a certain degree of formality.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

These ministers speechify on every occasion.

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) ↗

speechlessadjectiveTemporarily incapable of speaking.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Speechless with shock.

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) ↗

speednounA rate (usually rapid) at which something happens.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The project advanced with gratifying speed.

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) ↗

speedyadjectiveCharacterized by speed; moving with or capable of moving with high speed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A speedy errand boy.

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) ↗

spellverbOrally recite the letters of or give the spelling of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

How do you spell this word?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

spellbindingadjectiveAttracting and holding interest as if by a spell.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A spellbinding description of life in ancient Rome.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

spewverbEject or send out in large quantities, also metaphorical.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The editors of the paper spew out hostile articles about the Presidential candidate.

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) ↗

spherenounA particular environment or walk of life.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His social sphere is limited.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

sphericaladjectiveOf or relating to spheres or resembling a sphere.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spherical geometry.

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) ↗

spheroidnounA shape that is generated by rotating an ellipse around one of its axes.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It looked like a sphere but on closer examination I saw it was really a spheroid.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

spicadjectiveCompletely neat and clean.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Their spic red-visored caps.

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

spiceverbMake more interesting or flavorful.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spice up the evening by inviting a belly dancer.

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) ↗

spiffingadjectiveExcellent or splendid.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

That's a perfectly spiffing idea.

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

spikenounAny holding device consisting of a rigid, sharp-pointed object.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The spike pierced the receipts and held them in order.

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) ↗

spillverbCause or allow (a solid substance) to flow or run out or over.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spill the beans all over the table.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

spillernounAn attacker who sheds or spills blood.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A great hunter and spiller of blood.

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) ↗

spinnounA distinctive interpretation (especially as used by politicians to sway public opinion).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The campaign put a favorable spin on the story.

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) ↗

spinenounThe part of a book's cover that encloses the inner side of the book's pages and that faces outward when the book is shelved.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The title and author were printed on the spine of the book.

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) ↗

spiritualadjectiveLacking material body or form or substance.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The vital transcendental soul belonging to the spiritual realm.

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) ↗

spirituallyadverbIn a spiritual manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The ninth century was the spiritually freest period.

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) ↗

spitefuladjectiveShowing malicious ill will and a desire to hurt; motivated by spite.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A truly spiteful child.

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) ↗

splashnounA patch of bright color.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her red hat gave her outfit a splash of color.

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

splashedadjective(of a fluid) having been propelled about in flying drops or masses.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With clothes wet by splashed water.

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

splashyadjectiveMarked by ostentation but often tasteless.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A splashy half-page ad.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

splatnounA single splash.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He heard a splat as it hit the floor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

splatteredadjectiveCovered with bright patches (often used in combination).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Kitchen walls splattered with grease.

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

splendidadjectiveCharacterized by grandeur.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The splendid coronation ceremony.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

splendidlyadverbExtremely well.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He did splendidly in the exam.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

splendornounThe quality of being magnificent or splendid or grand.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It is the university that gives the scene its stately splendor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

splicenounA junction where two things (as paper or film or magnetic tape) have been joined together.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The break was due to an imperfect splice.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch.

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

splintnounA thin sliver of wood.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He lit the fire with a burning splint.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

splinternounA small thin sharp bit or wood or glass or metal.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He got a splinter in his finger.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

splinteryadjectiveResembling or consisting of or embedded with long slender fragments of (especially) wood having sharp points.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A rough splintery floor of old pine boards.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

splitverbDiscontinue an association or relation; go different ways.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

My friend and I split up.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

splurgenounAny act of immoderate indulgence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A splurge of spending.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

spokenadjectiveUttered through the medium of speech or characterized by speech; sometimes used in combination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The spoken language.

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) ↗

spongenounSomeone able to acquire new knowledge and skills rapidly and easily.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She soaks up foreign languages like a sponge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

sponsorverbAssume responsibility for or leadership of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The senator announced that he would sponsor the health care plan.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

spontaneitynounThe quality of being spontaneous and coming from natural feelings without constraint.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The spontaneity of his laughter.

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

spontaneousadjectiveHappening or arising without apparent external cause.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spontaneous laughter.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

spontaneouslyadverbIn a spontaneous manner.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This shift occurs spontaneously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

spoornounThe trail left by a person or an animal; what the hunter follows in pursuing game.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The hounds followed the fox's spoor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

sportnounVerbal wit or mockery (often at another's expense but not to be taken seriously).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He said it in sport.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

sportingadjectiveExhibiting or calling for sportsmanship or fair play.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sporting solution of the disagreement.

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

spotnounA point located with respect to surface features of some region.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bright spot on a planet.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

spottedadjectiveHaving spots or patches (small areas of contrasting color or texture).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A black-and-white spotted cow.

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

spottyadjectiveLacking consistency.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The golfer hit the ball well but his putting was spotty.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

spousaladjectiveRelating to a spouse.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A fitting symbol of spousal love.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

sprawlingadjectiveSpreading out in different directions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sprawling handwriting.

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

sprayverbScatter in a mass or jet of droplets.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spray water on someone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

spreadverbDistribute or disperse widely.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The invaders spread their language all over the country.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

spreadernounA hand tool for spreading something.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He used his knife as a spreader.

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) ↗

sprightlyadjectiveFull of spirit and vitality.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sprightly young girl.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

springnounThe season of growth.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The emerging buds were a sure sign of spring.

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) ↗

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.