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Words 801–900 of 10,000Independent bank · American English

beautifyverbMake more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Beautify yourself for the special day.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

becomingadjectiveDisplaying or setting off to best advantage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A becoming portrait.

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

bednounA piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He sat on the edge of the bed.

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) ↗

bedraggledadjectiveLimp and soiled as if dragged in the mud.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beggar's bedraggled clothes.

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

bedsidenounSpace by the side of a bed (especially the bed of a sick or dying person).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The doctor stood at her bedside.

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) ↗

befallverbBecome of; happen to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He promised that no harm would befall her.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

befittingadjectiveAppropriate to.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Behavior befitting a father.

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

beforeadverbEarlier in time; previously.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I had known her before.

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) ↗

beforehandadjectiveBeing ahead of time or need.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Was beforehand with her report.

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) ↗

begverbCall upon in supplication; entreat.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I beg you to stop!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

beginverbSet in motion, cause to start.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Begin a new chapter in your life.

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) ↗

beginningnounThe event consisting of the start of something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beginning of the war.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

begottenadjective(of offspring) generated by procreation.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Naturally begotten child.

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

beguilingadjectiveHighly attractive and able to arouse hope or desire.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The voice was low and beguiling.

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

behaviornounThe action or reaction of something (as a machine or substance) under specified circumstances.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The behavior of small particles can be studied in experiments.

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) ↗

behavioraladjectiveOf or relating to behavior.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Behavioral sciences.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

beheadedadjectiveHaving had the head cut off.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beheaded prisoners.

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

behindadverbIn or to or toward the rear.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He followed behind.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

beingnounThe state or fact of existing.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A point of view gradually coming into being.

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

belaborverbTo work at or to absurd length.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Belabor the obvious.

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

belatedadjectiveAfter the expected or usual time; delayed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A belated birthday card.

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

belatedlyadverbLater than usual or than expected.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I belatedly wished her a happy birthday.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

English word formation.

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

belchingnounThe forceful expulsion of something from inside.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The belching of smoke from factory chimneys.

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

beliefnounA vague idea in which some confidence is placed.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

It strengthened my belief in his sincerity.

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) ↗

believeverbAccept as true; take to be true.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We didn't believe his stories from the War.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

believingnounThe cognitive process that leads to convictions.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Seeing is believing.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, 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) ↗

belittleverbLessen the authority, dignity, or reputation of.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Don't belittle your colleagues.

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) ↗

belittlingadjectiveTending to diminish or disparage.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Belittling comments.

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

bellenounA young woman who is the most charming and beautiful of several rivals.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

She was the belle of the ball.

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

bellicoseadjectiveHaving or showing a ready disposition to fight.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bellicose young officers.

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) ↗

belligerentadjectiveCharacteristic of an enemy or one eager to fight.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A belligerent tone.

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

bellownounA very loud utterance (like the sound of an animal).beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His bellow filled the hallway.

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) ↗

bellynounThe hollow inside of something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

In the belly of the ship.

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) ↗

belongverbBe suitable or acceptable.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This student somehow doesn't belong.

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) ↗

belongingnounHappiness felt in a secure relationship.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With his classmates he felt a sense of belonging.

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) ↗

beltnounAn elongated region where a specific condition or characteristic is found.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A belt of high pressure.

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) ↗

bemusedadjectivePerplexed by many conflicting situations or statements; filled with bewilderment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Obviously bemused by his questions.

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

bennounA mountain or tall hill.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They were climbing the ben.

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

benchnounThe reserve players on a team.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Our team has a strong bench.

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) ↗

benchmarknounA standard by which something can be measured or judged.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

His painting sets the benchmark of quality.

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) ↗

bendverbForm a curve.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The stick does not bend.

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) ↗

bendedadjectiveUsed of the back and knees; stooped.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

With bent (or bended) back.

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

bendernounA tool for bending.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He used pliers as a bender.

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) ↗

beneficentadjectiveDoing or producing good.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The most beneficent regime in history.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

beneficialadjectivePromoting or enhancing well-being.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The beneficial effects of a temperate climate.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

beneficiaryadjectiveHaving or arising from a benefice.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A beneficiary baron.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

benefitnounSomething that aids or promotes well-being.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

For the benefit of all.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

benevolentadjectiveGenerous in assistance to the poor.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A benevolent contributor.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

benightedadjectiveLacking enlightenment or knowledge or culture.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

This benighted country.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

benignadjectivePleasant and beneficial in nature or influence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The benign influence of pure air.

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) ↗

bentnounA special way of doing something.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He had a bent for it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

beratingnounA severe rebuke.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He deserved the berating that the coach gave him.

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

bereavednounA person who has suffered the death of someone they loved.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The bereaved do not always need to be taken care of.

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

berserkadjectiveFrenzied as if possessed by a demon.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Berserk with grief.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Norse.

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

besidesadverbMaking an additional point; anyway.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

I don't want to go to a restaurant; besides, we can't afford it.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

bespectacledadjectiveWearing, or having the face adorned with, eyeglasses or an eyeglass.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bespectacled grandmother.

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

bestadjective(superlative of `good') having the most positive qualities.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Wore his best suit.

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) ↗

bestialadjectiveResembling a beast; showing lack of human sensibility.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bestial treatment of prisoners.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, Latin, Middle English, Middle French, Middle Scots, 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) ↗

betverbHave faith or confidence in.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

You can bet on that!

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hebrew, 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) ↗

betaadjectiveSecond in order of importance.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The candidate, considered a beta male, was perceived to be unable to lead his party to victory.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

betteradjective(comparative of `good') superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A better type of car.

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) ↗

betweenadverbIn the interval.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Dancing all the dances with little rest between.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

beveragenounAny liquid suitable for drinking.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

May I take your beverage order?

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) ↗

bevynounA large gathering of people of a particular type.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bevy of young beach boys swarmed around him.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Middle English.

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

bewareverbBe on one's guard; be cautious or wary about; be alert to.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Beware of telephone salesmen.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Arabic, 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) ↗

bewilderedadjectivePerplexed by many conflicting situations or statements; filled with bewilderment.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bewildered and confused.

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

beynoun(formerly) a title of respect for a man in Turkey or Egypt.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He introduced me to Ahmet Bey.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Old Anatolian Turkish, Old Persian, Old Turkic, Ottoman Turkish, Turkish. The source may include more than one historical route or component.

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

beyondadverbFarther along in space or time or degree.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Through the valley and beyond.

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) ↗

biasedadjectiveFavoring one person or side over another.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A biased account of the trial.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, French, Latin, Old Occitan, 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) ↗

bicentennialadjectiveOf or relating to or completing a period of 200 years.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bicentennial celebration.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

bicyclenounA vehicle with two wheels powered by pedals.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

He rode his bicycle along the quiet path.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

French

Original teaching entry.

bidverbAsk for or request earnestly.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The prophet bid all people to become good persons.

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) ↗

biddingnounA request to be present.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They came at his bidding.

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

biennialadjectiveHaving a life cycle lasting two seasons.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A biennial life cycle.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin.

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

biernounA coffin along with its stand.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

We followed the bier to the graveyard.

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) ↗

bifocaladjectiveHaving two foci.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bifocal eyeglasses.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, Latin, Mandarin, 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) ↗

bifurcatedadjectiveDivided into or made up of two parts.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Socially bifurcated populations.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, 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) ↗

bigadjectiveAbove average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A big (or large) barn.

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) ↗

bightnounA broad bay formed by an indentation in the shoreline.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Bight of Benin.

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) ↗

bigotedadjectiveBlindly and obstinately attached to some creed or opinion and intolerant toward others.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An outrageously bigoted point of view.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

bilateraladjectiveAffecting or undertaken by two parties.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A bilateral agreement between the United States and Japan.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

bilingualadjectiveUsing or knowing two languages.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Bilingual education.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Hindi, 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) ↗

billnounA statute in draft before it becomes law.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They held a public hearing on the bill.

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) ↗

billedadjectiveHaving a beak or bill as specified.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A thick-billed bird.

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

billowingadjectiveCharacterized by great swelling waves or surges.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The restless billowing sea.

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

bimonthlyadverbEvery two months.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The bill was payable bimonthly.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Latin, Mandarin, 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) ↗

binaryadjectiveConsisting of two (units or components or elements or terms).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The binary number system has two as its base.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Late Latin, 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) ↗

bindverbMake fast; tie or secure, with or as if with a rope.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The Chinese would bind the feet of their women.

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) ↗

bindingadjectiveExecuted with proper legal authority.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A binding contract.

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) ↗

bingenounAny act of immoderate indulgence.beginner+

USAGE EXAMPLE

An emotional binge.

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

binomialadjectiveOf or relating to or consisting of two terms.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Binomial expression.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

biodegradableadjectiveCapable of being decomposed by e.g. bacteria.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A biodegradable detergent.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

biodiversitynounThe diversity of plant and animal life in a particular habitat (or in the world as a whole).advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A high level of biodiversity is desirable.

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) ↗

biologynounCharacteristic life processes and phenomena of living organisms.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The biology of viruses.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek.

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

biomedicaladjectiveRelating to the activities and applications of science to clinical medicine.advanced+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Biomedical research laboratory.

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) ↗

bipolaradjectiveOf, pertaining to, or occurring in both polar regions.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The bipolar distribution of certain species.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

biracialadjectiveConsisting of or combining two races.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

A biracial committee.

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

birthnounThe time when something begins (especially life).intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

They divorced after the birth of the child.

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) ↗

birthplacenounWhere something originated or was nurtured in its early existence.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

The birthplace of civilization.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

Source-language links: Ancient Greek, 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) ↗

birthrightnounA right or privilege that you are entitled to at birth.intermediate+

USAGE EXAMPLE

Free public education is the birthright of every American child.

ORIGIN SUMMARY

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

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

Definitions and usage examples in the expanded bank come from WordNet 3.0, with pronunciation references from CMUdict. Records are automatically screened and source-validated, not individually human reviewed. Practice difficulty is an estimate, not a grade level or official Scripps band. Sources and coverage ↗ · WordNet license · CMUdict license

No matching words.