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Words 8201–8300 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

sprinklingnounA small number (of something) dispersed haphazardly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A sprinkling of grey at his temples.

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

sproutedadjective(of growing vegetation) having just emerged from the ground.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The corn is sprouted.

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

spruceverbMake neat, smart, or trim.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spruce up your house for Spring.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

spryadjectiveMoving quickly and lightly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The old dog was so spry it was halfway up the stairs before we could stop it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

spunknounThe courage to carry on.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He kept fighting on pure spunk.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

spurverbIncite or stimulate.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Academy was formed to spur research.

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) ↗

spuriousadjectiveIntended to deceive.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A spurious work of art.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

sputniknounA Russian artificial satellite.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Sputnik was the first man-made satellite to orbit the earth.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Russian.

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

sputterverbCause to undergo a process in which atoms are removed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The solar wind protons must sputter away the surface atoms of the dust.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch, 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) ↗

spyverbSecretly collect sensitive or classified information; engage in espionage.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Spy for the Russians.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

squalidadjectiveFoul and run-down and repulsive.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Squalid living conditions.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

squanderedadjectiveNot used to good advantage.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Squandered money cannot be replaced.

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

squanderingnounSpending resources lavishly and wastefully.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

More wasteful than the squandering of time.

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

squarenoun(geometry) a plane rectangle with four equal sides and four right angles; a four-sided regular polygon.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You can compute the area of a square if you know the length of its sides.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

squarelyadverbDirectly and without evasion; not roundabout.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

To face a problem squarely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

squattyadjectiveShort and thick; as e.g. having short legs and heavy musculature.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A squatty red smokestack.

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) ↗

squawknounThe noise of squawking.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The squawk of car horns.

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

squeaknounA short high-pitched noise.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The squeak of shoes on powdery snow.

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

squeakernounAny artifact that makes a squeaking sound when used.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Which hinge is the squeaker?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

squeamishadjectiveExcessively fastidious and easily disgusted.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

So squeamish he would only touch the toilet handle with his elbow.

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) ↗

squeamishnessnounThe trait of being excessively fastidious and easily shocked.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He refused to allow squeamishness to deter him from his duty.

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) ↗

squeezenounThe act of gripping and pressing firmly.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He gave her cheek a playful squeeze.

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) ↗

squelchverbSuppress or crush completely.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Squelch any sign of dissent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Abenaki, Latin, Middle English, Narragansett, 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) ↗

squigglenounAn illegible scrawl.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His signature was just a squiggle but only he could make that squiggle.

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) ↗

stabnounInformal words for any attempt or effort.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He took a stab at forecasting.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, Latin, Middle English, Old French, Old Norse, Scottish Gaelic, 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) ↗

stabilizationnounThe act of stabilizing something or making it more stable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He worked for price stabilization for farm products.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stabilizingadjectiveCausing to become stable.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The family is one of the great stabilizing elements in society.

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

stableadjectiveResistant to change of position or condition.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A stable relationship.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

staccatoadjective(music) marked by or composed of disconnected parts or sounds; cut short crisply.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A staccato command.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Italian, 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) ↗

stackverbLoad or cover with stacks.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stack a truck with boxes.

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) ↗

stacksnounA large number or amount.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She amassed stacks of newspapers.

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

staffnounPersonnel who assist their superior in carrying out an assigned task.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The hospital has an excellent nursing staff.

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) ↗

stagenounAny distinct time period in a sequence of events.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We are in a transitional stage in which many former ideas must be revised or rejected.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stagedadjectiveDeliberately arranged for effect.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

One of those artfully staged photographs.

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

staggerverbTo arrange in a systematic order.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stagger the chairs in the lecture hall.

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) ↗

staggeringadjectiveSo surprisingly impressive as to stun or overwhelm.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Suffered a staggering defeat.

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

stagnationnounA state of inactivity (in business or art etc).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Economic growth of less than 1% per year is considered to be economic stagnation.

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

stainverbColor with a liquid dye or tint.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stain this table a beautiful walnut color.

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) ↗

stainedadjectiveMarked or dyed or discolored with foreign matter.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Tear-stained cheeks.

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

stakenoun(law) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A stake in the company's future.

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) ↗

staleadjectiveLacking freshness, palatability, or showing deterioration from age.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beer was stale.

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) ↗

stalematedadjectiveAt a complete standstill because of opposition of two unrelenting forces or factions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The chess game ended with white stalemated.

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

stalkverbGo through (an area) in search of prey.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stalk the woods for deer.

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) ↗

stallnounA malfunction in the flight of an aircraft in which there is a sudden loss of lift that results in a downward plunge.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The plane went into a stall and I couldn't control it.

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) ↗

stalwartadjectiveHaving rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Proud of her tall stalwart son.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

stampnounA symbol that is the result of printing or engraving.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He put his stamp on the envelope.

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) ↗

stampedeverbCause to run in panic.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Thunderbolts can stampede animals.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Mexican Spanish.

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

standverbBe standing; be upright.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We had to stand for the entire performance!

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) ↗

standardadjectiveCommonly used or supplied.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Standard procedure.

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

standardizationnounThe imposition of standards or regulations.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A committee was appointed to recommend terminological standardization.

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

standardizedadjectiveBrought into conformity with a standard.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Standardized education.

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

standbyadjectiveReady for emergency use.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A standby generator.

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

standingnounSocial or financial or professional status or reputation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A member in good standing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle 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) ↗

staplenounA natural fiber (raw cotton, wool, hemp, flax) that can be twisted to form yarn.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Staple fibers vary widely in length.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

staradjectiveIndicating the most important performer or role.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A star figure skater.

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) ↗

stardomnounThe status of being acknowledged as a star.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stardom meant nothing to her.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

starkadjectiveDevoid of any qualifications or disguise or adornment.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Facing the stark reality of the deadline.

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) ↗

starklyadverbIn a blunt manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In starkly realistic terms.

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) ↗

starknessnounAn extreme lack of furnishings or ornamentation.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I was struck by the starkness of my father's room.

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) ↗

starlikeadjectiveResembling a star.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They saw a starlike object in the sky.

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) ↗

starlitadjectiveLighted only by stars.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The starlit darkness.

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) ↗

starryadjectiveAbounding with or resembling stars.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Starry illumination.

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) ↗

startverbHave a beginning, in a temporal, spatial, or evaluative sense.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Prices for these homes start at $250,000.

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) ↗

starternounA culture containing yeast or bacteria that is used to start the process of fermentation or souring in making butter or cheese or dough.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

To make sourdough you need a starter.

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) ↗

startingnounA turn to be a starter (in a game at the beginning).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His starting meant that the coach thought he was one of their best linemen.

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

startledadjectiveExcited by sudden surprise or alarm and making a quick involuntary movement.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Her startled expression.

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

startlingadjectiveSo remarkably different or sudden as to cause momentary shock or alarm.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Startling earthquake shocks.

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

startupnounThe act of starting a new operation or practice.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The startup of the new factory was delayed by strikes.

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) ↗

starvationnounThe act of depriving of food or subjecting to famine.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The besiegers used starvation to induce surrender.

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) ↗

starvedadjectiveExtremely hungry.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The family was starved and ragged.

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

statenounThe territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His state is in the deep south.

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) ↗

statementnounA message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

According to his statement he was in London on that day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

statesmanlikeadjectiveMarked by the qualities of or befitting a statesman.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A man of statesmanlike judgment.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

statewideadjectiveOccurring or extending throughout a state.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The statewide recycling program.

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) ↗

staticnounAngry criticism.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They will probably give you a lot of static about your editorial.

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) ↗

stationnounA facility equipped with special equipment and personnel for a particular purpose.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The train pulled into the station.

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) ↗

stationaryadjectiveNot capable of being moved.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stationary machinery.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

statisticaladjectiveOf or relating to statistics.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Statistical population.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

statisticallyadverbWith respect to statistics.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This is statistically impossible.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

staturenounHigh level of respect gained by impressive development or achievement.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A man of great stature.

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

statusnounThe relative position or standing of things or especially persons in a society.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had the status of a minor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

statutoryadjectivePrescribed or authorized by or punishable under a statute.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A statutory age limit.

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) ↗

staunchadjectiveFirm and dependable especially in loyalty.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A staunch defender of free speech.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

staunchlyadverbIn a staunch manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He staunchly defended his principles.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

stayverbContinue in a place, position, or situation.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stay with me, please.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stayernounA person or other animal having powers of endurance or perseverance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The horse that won the race is a good stayer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

steadnounThe post or function properly or customarily occupied or served by another.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Can you go in my stead?

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) ↗

steadiedadjectiveMade steady or constant.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The noise became a steadied roaring.

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

steadilyadverbAt a steady rate or pace.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His interest eroded steadily.

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) ↗

steadinessnounFreedom from wavering or indecision; constancy of resolve or conduct.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He trusted her clear steadiness that she would do what she said.

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) ↗

steadyadjectiveNot subject to change or variation especially in behavior.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A good steady ballplayer.

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) ↗

stealthyadjectiveMarked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Stealthy footsteps.

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) ↗

steamverbClean by means of steaming.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Steam-clean the upholstered sofa.

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) ↗

steamyadjectiveHot or warm and humid.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The steamy tropics.

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) ↗

steelyadjectiveResembling steel as in hardness.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Steely nerves like those of a steeplejack.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

steepadjectiveHaving a sharp inclination.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The steep attic stairs.

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) ↗

steeplyadverbIn a steep manner.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The street rose steeply up to the castle.

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) ↗

steerverbDirect (oneself) somewhere.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Steer clear of him.

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) ↗

stellaradjectiveIndicating the most important performer or role.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A stellar performance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

stemnoun(linguistics) the form of a word after all affixes are removed.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Thematic vowels are part of the stem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, 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) ↗

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

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