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 →

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

Words 8401–8500 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
stridernounA person who walks rapidly with long steps.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was such a strider that she couldn't keep up without running.

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) ↗

strikenounA group's refusal to work in protest against low pay or bad work conditions.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The strike lasted more than a month before it was settled.

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) ↗

strikernounSomeone who hits.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A fine striker of the ball.

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) ↗

strikingadjectiveSensational in appearance or thrilling in effect.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His striking good looks always created a sensation.

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

strikinglyadverbIn a striking manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

This was strikingly demonstrated.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

stringnounA sequentially ordered set of things or events or ideas in which each successive member is related to the preceding.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A string of islands.

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) ↗

stringentadjectiveDemanding strict attention to rules and procedures.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Stringent safety measures.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

stringernounA worker who strings.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stringer of beads.

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) ↗

stripnounA relatively long narrow piece of something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He felt a flat strip of muscle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stripenounA kind or category.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Businessmen of every stripe joined in opposition to the proposal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

stripernounA serviceman who wears stripes on the uniform to indicate rank or years of service.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He's a four-striper.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

stripesnounV-shaped sleeve badge indicating military rank and service.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They earned their stripes in Kuwait.

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

strippedadjectiveHaving only essential or minimal features.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stripped new car.

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

strokenounAnything that happens suddenly or by chance without an apparent cause.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The pregnancy was a stroke of bad luck.

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) ↗

strongadjectiveHaving strength or power greater than average or expected.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A strong radio signal.

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) ↗

stronglyadverbWith strength or in a strong manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Argues very strongly for his proposal.

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) ↗

strongmannounA powerful political figure who rules by the exercise of force or violence.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is determined to bring down the Iraqi strongman.

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) ↗

structuraladjectiveRelating to or caused by structure, especially political or economic structure.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Structural unemployment in a technological society.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

structurallyadverbWith respect to structure.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Structurally, the organization is healthy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

structurenounA thing constructed; a complex entity constructed of many parts.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The structure consisted of a series of arches.

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) ↗

structuredadjectiveHaving definite and highly organized structure.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A structured environment.

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

strugglenounAn energetic attempt to achieve something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Getting through the crowd was a real struggle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

strugglingadjectiveEngaged in a struggle to overcome especially poverty or obscurity.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Struggling artists.

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

strumnounSound of strumming.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The strum of a guitar.

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

strungadjectiveThat is on a string.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Keys strung on a red cord.

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

stubnounA small piece.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stub of a pencil.

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) ↗

stubbornadjectiveNot responding to treatment.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stubborn infection.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

stubbornlyadverbIn a stubborn unregenerate manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She remained stubbornly in the same position.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

studdedadjectiveDotted or adorned with or as with studs or nailheads; usually used in combination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Star-studded heavens.

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

studiedadjectiveProduced or marked by conscious design or premeditation.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A note of biting irony and studied insult.

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

studionounWorkplace for the teaching or practice of an art.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She ran a dance studio.

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) ↗

studiousadjectiveMarked by care and effort.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Made a studious attempt to fix the television set.

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

studiouslyadverbIn a studious manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She examined the data studiously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

studynounApplying the mind to learning and understanding a subject (especially by reading).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

No schools offer graduate study in interior design.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stuffnounMiscellaneous unspecified objects.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The trunk was full of stuff.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stuffyadjectiveLacking fresh air.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Hot and stuffy and the air was blue with smoke.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stultifyverbProve to be of unsound mind or demonstrate someone's incompetence.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Nobody is legally allowed to stultify himself.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

stunnedadjectiveFilled with the emotional impact of overwhelming surprise or shock.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Stood in stunned silence.

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) ↗

stunnernounAn unexpected and amazing event.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The stunner was what happened on Saturday.

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) ↗

stunningadjectiveCommanding attention.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stunning performance.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

stuntverbCheck the growth or development of.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You will stunt your growth by building all these muscles.

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) ↗

stuntedadjectiveInferior in size or quality.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Old stunted thorn trees.

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

stupendousadjectiveSo great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stupendous field of grass.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin.

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

stupidnounA person who is not very bright.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The economy, stupid!

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) ↗

stupidlyadverbIn a stupid manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He had stupidly bought a one way ticket.

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) ↗

sturdinessnounResoluteness evidenced by strength of character.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sturdiness of moral principle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

sturdyadjectiveHaving rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sturdy young athletes.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

stylenounHow something is done or how it happens.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In the characteristic New York style.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stylishadjectiveHaving elegance or taste or refinement in manners or dress.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The stylish resort of Gstadd.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stylishlyadverbIn a stylish manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She was dressed very stylishly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

stylizedadjectiveUsing artistic forms and conventions to create effects; not natural or spontaneous.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A stylized mode of theater production.

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

stylusnounA pointed tool for writing or drawing or engraving.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He drew the design on the stencil with a steel stylus.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subatomicadjectiveOf or relating to constituents of the atom or forces within the atom.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subatomic particles.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

subconsciouslyadverbFrom the subconscious mind.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The image came to him subconsciously.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subdueverbHold within limits and control.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subdue one's appetites.

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) ↗

subduedadjectiveLacking in light; not bright or harsh.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subdued lights and soft music.

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

subhumanadjectiveLess than human or not worthy of a human being.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A subhuman spectacle.

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) ↗

subjectiveadjectiveTaking place within the mind and modified by individual bias.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A subjective judgment.

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) ↗

subjugatedadjectiveReduced to submission.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subjugated peoples.

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

subletverbLease or rent all or part of (a leased or rented property) to another person.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We sublet our apartment over the summer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sublimeadjectiveInspiring awe.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sublime beauty of the night.

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) ↗

submergeverbPut under water.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Submerge your head completely.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

submissionnounSomething (manuscripts or architectural plans and models or estimates or works of art of all genres etc.) submitted for the judgment of others (as in a competition).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

What was the date of submission of your proposal?

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) ↗

submissiveadjectiveInclined or willing to submit to orders or wishes of others or showing such inclination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A submissive reply.

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

subordinateadjective(of a clause) unable to stand alone syntactically as a complete sentence.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A subordinate (or dependent) clause functions as a noun or adjective or adverb within a sentence.

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) ↗

subscribeverbAdopt as a belief.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I subscribe to your view on abortion.

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) ↗

subscribedadjective(of a contract or will or other document) having a signature written at the end.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The subscribed will.

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

subsequentadjectiveFollowing in time or order.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subsequent developments.

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) ↗

subsequentlyadverbHappening at a time subsequent to a reference time.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He apologized subsequently.

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) ↗

subserviencenounThe condition of being something that is useful in reaching an end or carrying out a plan.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

All his actions were in subservience to the general plan.

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) ↗

subservientadjectiveCompliant and obedient to authority.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Editors and journalists who express opinions in print that are opposed to the interests of the rich are dismissed and replaced by subservient ones.

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

subsideverbSink to a lower level or form a depression.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The valleys subside.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subsidizedadjectiveHaving partial financial support from public funds.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Lived in subsidized public housing.

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

subsidynounA grant paid by a government to an enterprise that benefits the public.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A subsidy for research in artificial intelligence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subsistverbSupport oneself.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Many people in the world have to subsist on $1 a day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subsistencenounMinimal (or marginal) resources for subsisting.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Social security provided only a bare subsistence.

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

substancenounThe real physical matter of which a person or thing consists.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

DNA is the substance of our genes.

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) ↗

substandardadjectiveFalling short of some prescribed norm.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Substandard housing.

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

substantialadjectiveFairly large.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Won by a substantial margin.

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

substantiallyadverbTo a great extent or degree.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The price went up substantially.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

substituteverbPut in the place of another; switch seemingly equivalent items.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Substitute regular milk with fat-free milk.

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) ↗

substratenounAn indigenous language that contributes features to the language of an invading people who impose their language on the indigenous population.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The Celtic languages of Britain are a substrate for English.

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

subsurfaceadjectiveBeneath the surface.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subsurface materials of the moon.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

subterfugenounSomething intended to misrepresent the true nature of an activity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He wasn't sick--it was just a subterfuge.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Medieval 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) ↗

subtleadjectiveDifficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A subtle difference.

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) ↗

subtletynounThe quality of being difficult to detect or analyze.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

You had to admire the subtlety of the distinctions he drew.

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) ↗

subtlyadverbIn a subtle manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Late nineteenth-century French opera at its most beautiful, subtly romantic with a twilight melancholy.

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) ↗

subtractverbMake a subtraction.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subtract this amount from my paycheck.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

subtractionnounThe act of subtracting (removing a part from the whole).advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He complained about the subtraction of money from their paychecks.

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) ↗

suburbanadjectiveRelating to or characteristic of or situated in suburbs.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Suburban population.

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

subversionnounDestroying someone's (or some group's) honesty or loyalty; undermining moral integrity.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The big city's subversion of rural innocence.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

subvertverbCause the downfall of; of rulers.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Subvert the ruling class.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

subwaynounAn electric railway operating below the surface of the ground (usually in a city).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In Paris the subway system is called the `metro' and in London it is called the `tube' or the `underground'.

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) ↗

succeedverbBe the successor (of).beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Will Charles succeed to the throne?

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old French.

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

successnounAn event that accomplishes its intended purpose.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's call heads a success and tails a failure.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

successfuladjectiveHaving succeeded or being marked by a favorable outcome.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A successful architect.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

successfullyadverbWith success; in a successful manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She performed the surgery successfully.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

successionnounA group of people or things arranged or following in order.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A succession of failures.

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) ↗

successornounA person who follows next in order.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was President Lincoln's successor.

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

succinctadjectiveBriefly giving the gist of something.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Succinct comparisons.

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