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 8601–8700 of 10,000Independent bank · American English
sweepnounA wide scope.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sweep of the plains.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

sweepingadjectiveTaking in or moving over (or as if over) a wide area; often used in combination.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A wide-sweeping view of the river.

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

sweetadjectivePleasing to the senses.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sweet face of a child.

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) ↗

sweetheartadjectivePrivileged treatment of a favored person or corporation (sometimes unethically).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Another sweetheart deal based on political influence.

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) ↗

sweetnessnounThe quality of giving pleasure.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He was charmed by the sweetness of her manner.

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) ↗

swelledadjectiveFeeling self-importance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Had a swelled head.

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

swelteringadjectiveExcessively hot and humid or marked by sweating and faintness.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Sweltering athletes.

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

sweptadjectivePossessing sweep.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The sleek swept wings of the plane.

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

swiftadjectiveMoving very fast.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Swift flight of an arrow.

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) ↗

swimverbTravel through water.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We had to swim for 20 minutes to reach the shore.

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) ↗

swimmernounA person who travels through the water by swimming.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He is not a good swimmer.

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) ↗

swingverbHit or aim at with a sweeping arm movement.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The soccer player began to swing at the referee.

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) ↗

swishadjectiveElegant and fashionable.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A swish pastry shop on the Rue du Bac.

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

switchverbLay aside, abandon, or leave for another.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Switch to a different brand of beer.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle Dutch.

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

swollenadjectiveCharacteristic of false pride; having an exaggerated sense of self-importance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Growing ever more swollen-headed and arbitrary.

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) ↗

swornadjectiveBound by or as if by an oath.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

According to an early tradition became his sworn brother.

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) ↗

syllabicadjective(of speech sounds) forming the nucleus of a syllable.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The syllabic 'nl' in 'riddle'.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sylvanadjectiveRelating to or characteristic of wooded regions.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A shady sylvan glade.

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

symbolnounSomething visible that by association or convention represents something else that is invisible.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The eagle is a symbol of the United States.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

symbolicadjectiveServing as a visible symbol for something abstract.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The spinning wheel was as symbolic of colonical Massachusetts as the codfish.

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

symbolicallyadverbIn a symbolic manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Symbolically accepted goals.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

symbolizeverbExpress indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

What does the Statue of Liberty symbolize?

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

symmetricallyadverbIn a symmetrical manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They were symmetrically arranged.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

sympatheticadjectiveExpressing or feeling or resulting from sympathy or compassion or friendly fellow feelings; disposed toward.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A sympathetic gesture.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

sympatheticallyadverbWith respect to the sympathetic nervous system.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The stimulus acted sympathetically.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

sympathynounA relation of affinity or harmony between people; whatever affects one correspondingly affects the other.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The two of them were in close sympathy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

symphonicadjectiveHarmonious in sound.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The symphonic hum of a million insects.

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) ↗

symphonynounA large orchestra; can perform symphonies.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

We heard the Vienna symphony.

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) ↗

symptomaticadjectiveCharacteristic or indicative of a disease.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Symptomatic of insanity.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

synapsenounThe junction between two neurons (axon-to-dendrite) or between a neuron and a muscle.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Nerve impulses cross a synapse through the action of neurotransmitters.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

synchronicadjectiveConcerned with phenomena (especially language) at a particular period without considering historical antecedents.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Synchronic linguistics.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

synchronizeverbMake synchronous and adjust in time or manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's synchronize our efforts.

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

synchronizedadjectiveOperating in unison.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The synchronized flapping of a bird's wings.

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

synchronousadjectiveOccurring or existing at the same time or having the same period or phase.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Synchronous oscillations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late 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) ↗

syndicationnounSelling (an article or cartoon) for publication in many magazines or newspapers at the same time.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He received a comfortable income from the syndication of his work.

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

syndromenounA complex of concurrent things.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Every word has a syndrome of meanings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

synergisticadjectiveWorking together; used especially of groups, as subsidiaries of a corporation, cooperating for an enhanced effect.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A synergistic effect.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

synopticadjectivePresenting a summary or general view of a whole.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A synoptic presentation of a physical theory.

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) ↗

syntacticadjectiveOf or relating to or conforming to the rules of syntax.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The syntactic rules of a language.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

synthesizeverbCombine so as to form a more complex, product.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His operas synthesize music and drama in perfect harmony.

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) ↗

syntheticadjectiveOf a proposition whose truth value is determined by observation or facts.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

`all men are arrogant' is a synthetic proposition.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

systemnounInstrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He bought a new stereo system.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Late 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) ↗

systematicadjectiveCharacterized by order and planning.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A systematic administrator.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Late 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) ↗

systematicallyadverbIn a systematic or consistent manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They systematically excluded women.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, Anglo-Norman, French, 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) ↗

tabnounA short strip of material attached to or projecting from something in order to facilitate opening or identifying or handling it.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pull the tab to open the can.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

tablenounA piece of furniture having a smooth flat top that is usually supported by one or more vertical legs.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was a sturdy table.

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) ↗

tabulationnounThe act of putting into tabular form.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The tabulation of the results.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

tacitlyadverbIn a tacit manner; by unexpressed agreement.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They are tacitly expected to work 10 hours a day.

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) ↗

tackverbFasten with tacks.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tack the notice on the board.

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

tackleverbAccept as a challenge.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

I'll tackle this difficult task.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

tactfuladjectiveShowing skill and sensitivity in dealing with people.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A tactful way of correcting someone.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

tactfullyadverbShowing tact or tactfulness; in a tactful manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He stepped tactfully in to prevent trouble.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

tacticallyadverbWith regard to tactics.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The tactically useful province is still firmly in the rebels' hands.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

tactlessadjectiveRevealing lack of perceptiveness or judgment or finesse.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It was tactless to bring up those disagreeable.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: 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) ↗

tadnounA slight amount or degree of difference.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A tad too expensive.

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

tailnounThe time of the last part of something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The tail of the storm.

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) ↗

tailgateverbFollow at a dangerously close distance.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

It is dangerous to tailgate another vehicle.

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) ↗

tailorverbAdjust to a specific need or market.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tailor your needs to your surroundings.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman, 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) ↗

tailoredadjectiveSeverely simple in line or design.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A neat tailored suit.

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

takeverbInterpret something in a certain way; convey a particular meaning or impression.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

How should I take this message?

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) ↗

takeawaynounPrepared food that is intended to be eaten off of the premises.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In England they call takeout food `takeaway'.

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

takenadjectiveUnderstood in a certain way; made sense of.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A word taken literally.

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) ↗

takeoutnounPrepared food that is intended to be eaten off of the premises.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

In England they call takeout food `takeaway'.

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

takingnounThe act of someone who picks up or takes something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Clothing could be had for the taking.

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

talknounAn exchange of ideas via conversation.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Let's have more work and less talk around here.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

talksnounA discussion intended to produce an agreement.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Talks between Israelis and Palestinians.

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

talladjectiveLofty in style.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He engages in so much tall talk, one never really realizes what he is saying.

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) ↗

tallynounA score in baseball made by a runner touching all four bases safely.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Their first tally came in the 3rd inning.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

tameadjectiveBrought from wildness into a domesticated state.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Fields of tame blueberries.

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) ↗

tamedadjectiveBrought from wildness.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The once inhospitable landscape is now tamed.

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

tampverbPress down tightly.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tamp the coffee grinds in the container to make espresso.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

tandemadverbOne behind the other.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Riding horses down the path in tandem.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

tangentialadjectiveOf superficial relevance if any.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A tangential remark.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

tangibleadjectivePerceptible by the senses especially the sense of touch.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Skin with a tangible roughness.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tangiblyadverbIn a tangible manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Virtue is tangibly rewarded.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tanglenounA twisted and tangled mass that is highly interwoven.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

They carved their way through the tangle of vines.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tangledadjectiveIn a confused mass.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Pushed back her tangled hair.

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

tantalizingadjectiveVery pleasantly inviting.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A tantalizing aroma.

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

tantalizinglyadverbIn a tantalizing manner.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She smiled at him tantalizingly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

tantamountadjectiveBeing essentially equal to something.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

His statement was tantamount to an admission of guilt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Anglo-Norman.

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

tantrumnounA display of bad temper.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

She threw a tantrum.

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

tapverbDraw from or dip into to get something.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tap a source of money.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tapenounA long thin piece of cloth or paper as used for binding or fastening.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He used a piece of tape for a belt.

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) ↗

tapedadjectiveSecured or held in place by tape.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Carefully taped pieces of glass served as a windowpane.

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

taperedadjectiveBecoming gradually narrower.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Trousers with tapered legs.

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

taperingnounThe act of gradually lowering the size or amount.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The doctor prescribed the tapering of the dose.

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

tappedadjectiveIn a condition for letting out liquid drawn out as by piercing or drawing a plug.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Latex from tapped rubber trees.

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

tappingnounThe sound of light blow or knock.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

He heard the tapping of the man's cane.

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

tardyadjectiveAfter the expected or usual time; delayed.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Tardy children are sent to the principal.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: French, Latin, 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) ↗

targetnounA person who is the aim of an attack (especially a victim of ridicule or exploitation) by some hostile person or influence.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The target of a manhunt.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, 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) ↗

tartlyadverbIn a tart manner.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

`Never mind your immortal soul,' she said tartly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tasknounA specific piece of work required to be done as a duty or for a specific fee.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The endless task of classifying the samples.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tastenounDelicate discrimination (especially of aesthetic values).intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Arrogance and lack of taste contributed to his rapid success.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, 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) ↗

tastefullyadverbWith taste; in a tasteful manner.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

The house was tastefully decorated.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Frankish, Late Latin, 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) ↗

tatteredadjectiveWorn to shreds; or wearing torn or ragged clothing.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

A tattered barefoot boy.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Dutch, Hindi, 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) ↗

tattyadjectiveShowing signs of wear and tear.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

An old house with dirty windows and tatty curtains.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

tauntingadjectiveAbusing vocally; expressing contempt or ridicule.intermediate+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Taunting shouts of `coward' and `sissy'.

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

tautadjectiveSubjected to great tension; stretched tight.beginner+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Her nerves were taut as the strings of a bow.

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) ↗

taxpayingadjectiveNot exempt from paying taxes.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

After training they became productive taxpaying citizens.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

teachableadjectiveReady and willing to be taught.advanced+
USAGE EXAMPLE

Teachable youngsters.

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) ↗

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