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abandon [əˈbændən] – v. forsake, leave behind: We abandoned the old car in the empty parking lot

ability [əˈbiliti] – n. the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment

able [ˈeibl] – adj. (usually followed by `to’) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something: able to swim

abnormal [æbˈnɔ:məl] – adj. not normal; not typical or usual or regular or conforming to a norm: abnormal powers of concentration

abolish [əˈbɔliʃ] – v. do away with: Slavery was abolished in the mid-19th century in America and in Russia

abolition [æbəˈliʃən] – n. the act of abolishing a system or practice or institution (especially abolishing slavery): the abolition of capital punishment

abortion [əˈbɔ:ʃən] – n. termination of pregnancy

about [əˈbaut] – adv. (of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct: in just about a minute

above [əˈbʌv] – adv. at an earlier place: see above

abroad [əˈbrɔ:d] – adv. to or in a foreign country: they had never travelled abroad

abruptly [əˈbrʌptli] – adv. quickly and without warning

absence [ˈæbsns] – n. failure to be present

absent [ˈæbsənt] – adj. not being in a specified place

absolute [ˈæbsəlu:t] – adj. perfect or complete or pure: absolute loyalty

absolutely [ˈæbsəlu:tli] – adv. completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers: an absolutely magnificent painting

absorb [əbˈsɔ:b] – v. become imbued: The liquids, light, and gases absorb

absorption [əbˈsɔ:pʃən] – n. (chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid

abstract [ˈæbstrækt] – v. make off with belongings of others

absurd [əbˈsə:d] – adj. inconsistent with reason or logic or common sense: the absurd predicament of seeming to argue that virtue is highly desirable but intensely unpleasant

abuse [əˈbju:s,əˈbju:z] – v. treat badly: This boss abuses his workers

academic [.ækəˈdemik] – adj. hypothetical or theoretical and not expected to produce an immediate or practical result: an academic discussion

academy [əˈkædəmi] – n. a secondary school (usually private)

accelerate [ækˈseləreit] – v. move faster: The car accelerated

accent [ˈæksənt] – n. distinctive manner of oral expression: he couldn’t suppress his contemptuous accent

accept [əkˈsept] – v. consider or hold as true: I cannot accept the dogma of this church

acceptable [əkˈseptəbl] – adj. judged to be in conformity with approved usage: acceptable English usage

acceptance [əkˈseptəns] – n. the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception: the proposal found wide acceptance

access [ˈækses] – n. the right to enter

accessible [əkˈsesəbl] – adj. capable of being reached: a town accessible by rail

accident [ˈæksidənt] – n. an unfortunate mishap; especially one causing damage or injury

accommodate [əˈkɔmədeit] – v. be agreeable or acceptable to

accommodation [ə.kɔməˈdeiʃn] – n. making or becoming suitable; adjusting to circumstances

accompany [əˈkʌmpəni] – v. be present or associated with an event or entity

accomplish [əˈkɔmpliʃ] – v. put in effect

accord [əˈkɔ:d] – n. harmony of people’s opinions or actions or characters

accordance [əˈkɔ:dəns] – n. concurrence of opinion

accordingly [əˈkɔ:diŋli] – adv. (sentence connectors) because of the reason given: continued to have severe headaches and accordingly returned to the doctor

account [əˈkaunt] – n. a record or narrative description of past events: he gave an inaccurate account of the plot to kill the president

accountability  – n. responsibility to someone or for some activity

accountant [əˈkauntənt] – n. someone who maintains and audits business accounts

accounting [əˈkauntiŋ] – n. a convincing explanation that reveals basic causes: he was unable to give a clear accounting for his actions

accumulate [əˈkju:mjuleit] – v. get or gather together

accumulation [əkju:mjʊˈleiʃ(ə)n] – n. an increase by natural growth or addition

accuracy [ˈækjurəsi] – n. the quality of being near to the true value: he was beginning to doubt the accuracy of his compass

accurate [ˈækjurit] – adj. (of ideas, images, representations, expressions) characterized by perfect conformity to fact or truth ; strictly correct

accurately [ˈækjuritli] – adv. with few mistakes: he works very accurately

accusation [ækju(:)ˈzeiʃən] – n. a formal charge of wrongdoing brought against a person; the act of imputing blame or guilt

accuse [əˈkju:z] – v. blame for, make a claim of wrongdoing or misbehavior against

accused  – n. a defendant in a criminal proceeding

achieve [əˈtʃi:v] – v. to gain with effort: she achieved her goal despite setbacks

achievement [əˈtʃi:vmənt] – n. the action of accomplishing something

acid [ˈæsid] – adj. harsh or corrosive in tone: a barrage of acid comments

acknowledge [əkˈnɔlidʒ] – v. declare to be true or admit the existence or reality or truth of: She acknowledged that she might have forgotten

acquaintance [əˈkweintəns] – n. personal knowledge or information about someone or something

acquire [əˈkwaiə] – v. come into the possession of something concrete or abstract: They acquired a new pet

acquisition [.ækwiˈziʃən] – n. the act of contracting or assuming or acquiring possession of something: the acquisition of wealth

acre [ˈeikə] – n. a unit of area (4840 square yards) used in English-speaking countries

across [əˈkrɔ:s] – adv. to the opposite side: the football field was 300 feet across

act [ækt] – v. behave in a certain manner; show a certain behavior; conduct or comport oneself: You should act like an adult

action [ˈækʃən] – n. something done (usually as opposed to something said): there were stories of murders and other unnatural actions

activate [ˈæktiveit] – v. put in motion or move to act

active [ˈæktiv] – adj. tending to become more severe or wider in scope: active tuberculosis

actively [ˈæktivli] – adv. in an active manner: he participated actively in the war

activist [ˈæktivist] – n. a militant reformer

activity [ækˈtiviti] – n. any specific behavior: they avoided all recreational activity

actor [ˈæktə] – n. a theatrical performer

actress [ˈæktris] – n. a female actor

actual [ˈæktjuəl] – adj. taking place in reality; not pretended or imitated: we saw the actual wedding on television

actually [ˈæktʃuəli] – adv. used to imply that one would expect the fact to be the opposite of that stated; surprisingly: you may actually be doing the right thing by walking out

acute [əˈkju:t] – adj. having or experiencing a rapid onset and short but severe course: acute appendicitis

adapt [əˈdæpt] – v. make fit for, or change to suit a new purpose

adaptation [.ædæpˈteiʃən] – n. a written work (as a novel) that has been recast in a new form: the play is an adaptation of a short novel

add [æd] – v. state or say further

addition [əˈdiʃən] – n. a component that is added to something to improve it: the addition of a bathroom was a major improvement

additional [əˈdiʃənl] – adj. further or added: called for additional troops

address [əˈdres] – v. speak to: He addressed the crowd outside the window

adequate [ˈædikwit] – adj. having the requisite qualities or resources to meet a task: she had adequate training

adequately [ˈædikwitli] – adv. in an adequate manner or to an adequate degree: he was adequately prepared

adjacent [əˈdʒeisnt] – adj. nearest in space or position; immediately adjoining without intervening space: had adjacent rooms

adjective [ˈædʒiktiv] – n. a word that expresses an attribute of something

adjust [əˈdʒʌst] – v. alter or regulate so as to achieve accuracy or conform to a standard

adjustment [əˈdʒʌstmənt] – n. the act of making something different (as e.g. the size of a garment)

administer [ədˈministə] – v. perform (a church sacrament) ritually: administer the last unction

administration [əd.miniˈstreiʃən] – n. a method of tending to or managing the affairs of a some group of people (especially the group’s business affairs)

administrative [ədˈministrətiv] – adj. of or relating to or responsible for administration

administrator [ədˈministreitə] – n. someone who administers a business

admiration [.ædməˈreiʃən] – n. a feeling of delighted approval and liking

admire [ədˈmaiə] – v. look at with admiration

admission [ədˈmiʃən] – n. the act of admitting someone to enter: the surgery was performed on his second admission to the clinic

admit [ədˈmit] – v. allow to enter; grant entry to: We cannot admit non-members into our club building

adopt [əˈdɔpt] – v. choose and follow; as of theories, ideas, policies, strategies or plans

adoption [əˈdɔpʃən] – n. the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception: its adoption by society

adult [ˈædʌlt] – n. a fully developed person from maturity onward

advance [ədˈvɑ:ns] – v. move forward, also in the metaphorical sense

advanced [ədˈvɑ:nst] – adj. farther along in physical or mental development: the child’s skeletal age was classified as `advanced’

advantage [ədˈvɑ:ntidʒ] – n. the quality of having a superior or more favorable position: the experience gave him the advantage over me

adventure [ədˈventʃə] – v. take a risk in the hope of a favorable outcome

adverse [ˈædvə:s] – adj. contrary to your interests or welfare: adverse circumstances

advertise [ˈædvətaiz] – v. call attention to: Please don’t advertise the fact that he has AIDS

advertisement [ədˈvə:tismənt] – n. a public promotion of some product or service

advertising [ˈædvətaiziŋ] – n. a public promotion of some product or service

advice [ədˈvais] – n. a proposal for an appropriate course of action

advise [ədˈvaiz] – v. inform (somebody) of something: I advised him that the rent was due

adviser [ədˈvaizə] – n. an expert who gives advice: an adviser helped students select their courses

advisory [ədˈvaizəri] – n. an announcement that usually advises or warns the public of some threat: a frost advisory

advocate [ˈædvəkeit,ˈædvəkit] – n. a person who pleads for a cause or propounds an idea

aesthetic [i:sˈθetik] – adj. concerning or characterized by an appreciation of beauty or good taste: the aesthetic faculties

affair [əˈfɛə] – n. a vaguely specified concern: it is none of your affair

affect [əˈfekt] – v. have an effect upon: Will the new rules affect me?

affection [əˈfekʃən] – n. a positive feeling of liking: he had trouble expressing the affection he felt

affinity [əˈfiniti] – n. (immunology) the attraction between an antigen and an antibody

afford [əˈfɔ:d] – v. be able to spare or give up: I can’t afford to spend two hours with this person

afraid [əˈfreid] – adj. filled with fear or apprehension: afraid even to turn his head

afternoon [ˈɑ:ftəˈnu:n] – n. the part of the day between noon and evening: he spent a quiet afternoon in the park

afterwards [ˈa:ftəwədz] – adv. happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

again [əˈgein,əˈgen] – adv. anew: she tried again

age [eidʒ] – n. how long something has existed: it was replaced because of its age

agency [ˈeidʒənsi] – n. an administrative unit of government

agenda [əˈdʒendə] – n. a temporally organized plan for matters to be attended to

agent [ˈeidʒənt] – n. an active and efficient cause; capable of producing a certain effect: their research uncovered new disease agents

aggregate [ˈægrigeit,ˈægrigit] – n. the whole amount

aggression [əˈgreʃən] – n. a feeling of hostility that arouses thoughts of attack

aggressive [əˈgresiv] – adj. having or showing determination and energetic pursuit of your ends: an aggressive businessman

ago [əˈgəu] – adj. gone by; or in the past: two years ago

agony [ˈægəni] – n. intense feelings of suffering; acute mental or physical pain: an agony of doubt

agree [əˈgri:] – v. be compatible, similar or consistent; coincide in their characteristics: The two stories don’t agree in many details

agreed [əˈgri:d] – adj. united by being of the same opinion: agreed in their distrust of authority

agreement [əˈgri:mənt] – n. the statement (oral or written) of an exchange of promises: they had an agreement that they would not interfere in each other’s business

agricultural [.ægriˈkʌltʃərəl] – adj. relating to rural matters: an agrarian (or agricultural) society

agriculture [ˈægrikʌltʃə] – n. a large-scale farming enterprise

ahead [əˈhed] – adv. at or in the front: I see the lights of a town ahead

aid [eid] – n. a resource: visual aids in teaching

aids [eidz] – n. a serious (often fatal) disease of the immune system transmitted through blood products especially by sexual contact or contaminated needles

aim [eim] – v. point or cause to go (blows, weapons, or objects such as photographic equipment) towards: Please don’t aim at your little brother!

air [ɛə] – n. a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of: air pollution

aircraft [ˈɛəkrɑ:ft] – n. a vehicle that can fly

airline [ˈɛəlain] – n. a hose that carries air under pressure

airport [ˈɛəpɔ:t] – n. an airfield equipped with control tower and hangars as well as accommodations for passengers and cargo

alarm [əˈlɑ:m] – n. fear resulting from the awareness of danger

album [ˈælbəm] – n. a book of blank pages with pockets or envelopes; for organizing photographs or stamp collections etc

alcohol [ˈælkəhɔl] – n. any of a series of volatile hydroxyl compounds that are made from hydrocarbons by distillation

alert [əˈlə:t] – n. condition of heightened watchfulness or preparation for action: bombers were put on alert during the crisis

alien [ˈeiljən] – n. a person who comes from a foreign country; someone who does not owe allegiance to your country

alike [əˈlaik] – adv. equally: parents and teachers alike demanded reforms

alive [əˈlaiv] – adj. possessing life: the happiest person alive

all [ɔ:l] – adj. quantifier; used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class: we sat up all night

allegation [.æliˈgeiʃən] – n. (law) a formal accusation against somebody (often in a court of law): an allegation of malpractice

allege [əˈledʒ] – v. report or maintain: He alleged that he was the victim of a crime

alleged  – adj. declared but not proved: alleged abuses of housing benefits

allegedly  – adv. according to what has been alleged: he was on trial for allegedly murdering his wife

alliance [əˈlaiəns] – n. a connection based on kinship or marriage or common interest: the shifting alliances within a large family

allied [ˈælaid] – adj. related by common characteristics or ancestry: allied species

allocate [ˈæləkeit] – v. distribute according to a plan or set apart for a special purpose

allocation [.æləˈkeiʃən] – n. a share set aside for a specific purpose

allow [əˈlau] – v. make it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen: This sealed door won’t allow the water come into the basement

allowance [əˈlauəns] – n. a sum granted as reimbursement for expenses

ally [əˈlai] – n. a friendly nation

almost [ˈɔ:lməust] – adv. (of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but: the baby was almost asleep when the alarm sounded

alone [əˈləun] – adj. isolated from others: could be alone in a crowded room

along [əˈlɔŋ] – adv. with a forward motion: we drove along admiring the view

aloud [əˈlaud] – adv. using the voice; not silently: please read the passage aloud

already [ɔ:lˈredi] – adv. prior to a specified or implied time: she has already graduated

alright  – adv. without doubt (used to reinforce an assertion)

also [ˈɔ:lsəu] – adv. in addition

altar [ˈɔ:ltə] – n. the table in Christian churches where communion is given

alter [ˈɔ:ltə] – v. cause to change; make different; cause a transformation: The advent of the automobile may have altered the growth pattern of the city

alteration [.ɔ:ltəˈreiʃən] – n. an event that occurs when something passes from one state or phase to another

alternative [ɔ:lˈtə:nətiv] – adj. serving or used in place of another: an alternative plan

alternatively  – adv. in place of, or as an alternative to: alternatively we could buy a used car

altogether [.ɔ:ltəˈgeðə] – adv. to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole’ is often used informally for `wholly’): it was not altogether her fault

aluminium  – n. a silvery ductile metallic element found primarily in bauxite

always [ˈɔ:lweiz] – adv. at all times; all the time and on every occasion: I will always be there to help you

amateur [ˈæmətə:] – n. someone who pursues a study or sport as a pastime

amazing [əˈmeiziŋ] – adj. surprising greatly: she does an amazing amount of work

ambassador [æmˈbæsədə] – n. a diplomat of the highest rank; accredited as representative from one country to another

ambiguity [.æmbiˈgju:iti] – n. an expression whose meaning cannot be determined from its context

ambiguous [æmˈbigjuəs] – adj. open to two or more interpretations; or of uncertain nature or significance; or (often) intended to mislead: the polling had a complex and equivocal (or ambiguous) message for potential female candidates

ambition [æmˈbiʃən] – n. a cherished desire: his ambition is to own his own business

ambitious [æmˈbiʃəs] – adj. having a strong desire for success or achievement

ambulance [ˈæmbjuləns] – n. a vehicle that takes people to and from hospitals

amend [əˈmend] – v. to make better

amendment [əˈmendmənt] – n. a statement that is added to or revises or improves a proposal or document (a bill or constitution etc.)

amount [əˈmaunt] – n. a quantity of money: the amount he had in cash was insufficient

amp  – n. the basic unit of electric current adopted under the Systeme International d’Unites: a typical household circuit carries 15 to 50 amps

ample [ˈæmpl] – adj. more than enough in size or scope or capacity: had ample food for the party

amuse [əˈmju:z] – v. occupy in an agreeable, entertaining or pleasant fashion: The play amused the ladies

amusement [əˈmju:zmənt] – n. a feeling of delight at being entertained

analogy [əˈnælədʒi] – n. an inference that if things agree in some respects they probably agree in others

analyse  – v. break down into components or essential features

analysis [əˈnæləsis] – n. an investigation of the component parts of a whole and their relations in making up the whole

analyst [ˈænəlist] – n. someone who is skilled at analyzing data

ancestor [ˈænsistə] – n. someone from whom you are descended (but usually more remote than a grandparent)

ancient [ˈeinʃənt] – n. a very old person

angel [ˈeindʒəl] – n. spiritual being attendant upon God

anger [ˈæŋgə] – n. a strong emotion; a feeling that is oriented toward some real or supposed grievance

angle [ˈæŋgl] – v. to incline or bend from a vertical position

angrily  – adv. with anger: he angrily denied the accusation

angry [ˈæŋgri] – adj. (of the elements) as if showing violent anger: angry clouds on the horizon

animal [ˈæniməl] – n. a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

ankle [ˈæŋkl] – n. a gliding joint between the distal ends of the tibia and fibula and the proximal end of the talus

anniversary [.æniˈvə:səri] – n. the date on which an event occurred in some previous year (or the celebration of it)

announce [əˈnauns] – v. give the names of: He announced the winners of the spelling bee

announcement [əˈnaunsmənt] – n. a formal public statement: the government made an announcement about changes in the drug war

annoy [əˈnɔi] – v. cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations

annual [ˈænjuəl] – n. (botany) a plant that completes its entire life cycle within the space of a year

annually [ˈænjuəli] – adv. without missing a year: they travel to China annually

anonymous [əˈnɔniməs] – adj. having no known name or identity or known source: anonymous authors

answer [ˈɑ:nsə] – v. react verbally: She didn’t want to answer

ant [ænt] – n. social insect living in organized colonies; characteristically the males and fertile queen have wings during breeding season; wingless sterile females are the workers

antibody [ˈænti.bɔdi] – n. any of a large variety of proteins normally present in the body or produced in response to an antigen which it neutralizes, thus producing an immune response

anticipate [ænˈtisipeit] – v. regard something as probable or likely

anticipation [æn.tisiˈpeiʃən] – n. an expectation

anxiety [æŋˈzaiəti] – n. a vague unpleasant emotion that is experienced in anticipation of some (usually ill-defined) misfortune

anxious [ˈæŋkʃəs] – adj. eagerly desirous: anxious to see the new show at the museum

anyway [ˈeniwei] – adv. used to indicate that a statement explains or supports a previous statement: I don’t know what happened to it; anyway, it’s gone

anywhere [ˈeniwɛə] – adv. at or in or to any place: you can find this food anywhere

apart [əˈpɑ:t] – adv. separated or at a distance in place or position or time: These towns are many miles apart

apartment [əˈpɑ:tmənt] – n. a suite of rooms usually on one floor of an apartment house

apologise  – v. defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning

apology [əˈpɔlədʒi] – n. an expression of regret at having caused trouble for someone: he wrote a letter of apology to the hostess

apparatus [.æpəˈreitəs] – n. equipment designed to serve a specific function

apparent [əˈpærənt] – adj. clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment: the effects of the drought are apparent to anyone who sees the parched fields

apparently [əˈpærəntli] – adv. from appearances alone: irrigation often produces bumper crops from apparently desert land

appeal [əˈpi:l] – v. take a court case to a higher court for review: He was found guilty but appealed immediately

appear [əˈpiə] – v. give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect: This appears to be a very difficult problem

appearance [əˈpiərəns] – n. outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

appendix [əˈpendiks] – n. a vestigial process that extends from the lower end of the cecum and that resembles a small pouch

appetite [ˈæpitait] – n. a feeling of craving something: an appetite for life

apple [ˈæpl] – n. fruit with red or yellow or green skin and sweet to tart crisp whitish flesh

applicable [ˈæplikəbl] – adj. capable of being applied; having relevance: gave applicable examples to support her argument

applicant [ˈæplikənt] – n. a person who requests or seeks something such as assistance or employment or admission

application [.æpliˈkeiʃən] – n. the act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose: he advocated the application of statistics to the problem

applied [əˈplaid] – adj. concerned with concrete problems or data rather than with fundamental principles: applied physics

apply [əˈplai] – v. put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose: I apply this rule to get good results

appoint [əˈpɔint] – v. create and charge with a task or function

appointment [əˈpɔintmənt] – n. the act of putting a person into a non-elective position: the appointment had to be approved by the whole committee

appraisal [əˈpreizəl] – n. the classification of someone or something with respect to its worth

appreciate [əˈpri:ʃieit] – v. recognize with gratitude; be grateful for

appreciation [ə.pri:ʃiˈeiʃən] – n. understanding of the nature or meaning or quality or magnitude of something

approach [əˈprəutʃ] – n. ideas or actions intended to deal with a problem or situation: his approach to every problem is to draw up a list of pros and cons

appropriately  – adv. in an appropriate manner: he was appropriately dressed

approval [əˈpru:vəl] – n. a feeling of liking something or someone good: although she fussed at them, she secretly viewed all her children with approval

approve [əˈpru:v] – v. give sanction to: I approve of his educational policies

approved  – adj. established by authority; given authoritative approval: a list of approved candidates

approximately [əˈprɔksimitli] – adv. (of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct: lasted approximately an hour

aquarium [əˈkweəriəm] – n. a tank or pool or bowl filled with water for keeping live fish and underwater animals

arbitrary [ˈɑ:bitrəri] – adj. based on or subject to individual discretion or preference or sometimes impulse or caprice: an arbitrary decision

arc [ɑ:k] – n. electrical conduction through a gas in an applied electric field

arch [ɑ:tʃ] – n. a curved shape in the vertical plane that spans an opening

archaeological  – adj. related to or dealing with or devoted to archaeology: an archaeological dig

archbishop [ˈa:tʃˈbiʃəp] – n. a bishop of highest rank

architect [ˈɑ:kitekt] – n. someone who creates plans to be used in making something (such as buildings)

architectural [.ɑ:kiˈtektʃərəl] – adj. of or pertaining to the art and science of architecture: architectural history

architecture [ˈɑ:kitektʃə] – n. the discipline dealing with the principles of design and construction and ornamentation of fine buildings: architecture and eloquence are mixed arts whose end is sometimes beauty and sometimes use

archive  – n. a depository containing historical records and documents

area [ˈɛəriə] – n. a subject of study: it was his area of specialization

arena [əˈri:nə] – n. a particular environment or walk of life

argue [ˈɑ:gju:] – v. have an argument about something

argument [ˈɑ:gjumənt] – n. a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true: it was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true

arise [əˈraiz] – v. come into existence; take on form or shape

arm [ɑ:m] – n. any instrument or instrumentality used in fighting or hunting

armchair [ˈɑ:m.tʃɛə] – n. chair with a support on each side for arms

armed  – adj. having arms or arms as specified; used especially in combination: the many-armed goddess Shiva

army [ˈɑ:mi] – n. a large number of people united for some specific purpose

around [əˈraund] – adv. in the area or vicinity: hanging around

arouse [əˈrauz] – v. call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses): arouse pity

arrange [əˈreindʒ] – v. put into a proper or systematic order: arrange the books on the shelves in chronological order

arrangement [əˈreindʒmənt] – n. an orderly grouping (of things or persons) considered as a unit; the result of arranging: a flower arrangement

array [əˈrei] – n. an impressive display: it was a bewildering array of books

arrest [əˈrest] – v. take into custody

arrival [əˈraivəl] – n. accomplishment of an objective

arrive [əˈraiv] – v. succeed in a big way; get to the top: After he published his book, he had arrived

arrow [ˈærəu] – n. a mark to indicate a direction or relation

art [ɑ:t] – n. the creation of beautiful or significant things: art does not need to be innovative to be good

article [ˈɑ:tikl] – n. nonfictional prose forming an independent part of a publication

articulate [ɑ:ˈtikjuleit] – v. provide with a joint

artificial [.ɑ:tiˈfiʃəl] – adj. contrived by art rather than nature: artificial flowers

artist [ˈɑ:tist] – n. a person whose creative work shows sensitivity and imagination

artistic [ɑ:ˈtistik] – adj. satisfying aesthetic standards and sensibilities: artistic workmanship

as [æz] – adv. to the same degree (often followed by `as’): birds were singing and the child sang as sweetly

ascertain [.æsəˈtein] – v. establish after a calculation, investigation, experiment, survey, or study

ash [æʃ] – n. the residue that remains when something is burned

ashamed [əˈʃeimd] – adj. feeling shame or guilt or embarrassment or remorse: are you ashamed for having lied?

aside [əˈsaid] – adv. on or to one side: step aside

ask [ɑ:sk] – v. inquire about: I asked about their special today

asleep [əˈsli:p] – adj. in a state of sleep: were all asleep when the phone rang

aspect [ˈæspekt] – n. a distinct feature or element in a problem

aspiration [.æspəˈreiʃən] – n. a will to succeed

assault [əˈsɔ:lt] – n. close fighting during the culmination of a military attack

assemble [əˈsembl] – v. create by putting components or members together

assembly [əˈsembli] – n. a group of machine parts that fit together to form a self-contained unit

assert [əˈsə:t] – v. state categorically

assertion [əˈsə:ʃən] – n. a declaration that is made emphatically (as if no supporting evidence were necessary)

assess [əˈses] – v. evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, ability, extent, or significance of

assessment [əˈsesmənt] – n. the classification of someone or something with respect to its worth

asset [ˈæset] – n. a useful or valuable quality

assign [əˈsain] – v. give out: We were assigned new uniforms

assignment [əˈsainmənt] – n. the instrument by which a claim or right or interest or property is transferred from one person to another

assist [əˈsist] – v. work for or be a servant to: Is a salesperson assisting you?

assistance [əˈsistəns] – n. the activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose: could not walk without assistance

assistant [əˈsistənt] – n. a person who contributes to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose: my invaluable assistant

associate [əˈsəuʃieit] – n. a person who joins with others in some activity or endeavor: he had to consult his associate before continuing

association [ə.səusiˈeiʃən] – n. a formal organization of people or groups of people

assume [əˈsju:m] – v. take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof: I assume his train was late

assumption [əˈsʌmpʃən] – n. a hypothesis that is taken for granted: any society is built upon certain assumptions

assurance [əˈʃuərəns] – n. freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities: his assurance in his superiority did not make him popular

assure [əˈʃuə] – v. make certain of

asylum [əˈsailəm] – n. a shelter from danger or hardship

athlete [ˈæθli:t] – n. a person trained to compete in sports

atmosphere [ˈætməsfiə] – n. a particular environment or surrounding influence: there was an atmosphere of excitement

atom [ˈætəm] – n. (physics and chemistry) the smallest component of an element having the chemical properties of the element

atomic [əˈtɔmik] – adj. of or relating to or comprising atoms: atomic structure

attach [əˈtætʃ] – v. create social or emotional ties

attachment [əˈtætʃmənt] – n. a feeling of affection for a person or an institution

attack [əˈtæk] – n. (military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons): the attack began at dawn

attacker  – n. someone who attacks

attain [əˈtein] – v. to gain with effort

attainment [əˈteinmənt] – n. the act of achieving an aim: the attainment of independence

attempt [əˈtempt] – n. earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something

attend [əˈtend] – v. be present at (meetings, church services, university), etc.: She attends class regularly

attendance [əˈtendəns] – n. the act of being present (at a meeting or event etc.)

attention [əˈtenʃən] – n. the process whereby a person concentrates on some features of the environment to the (relative) exclusion of others

attitude [ˈætitju:d] – n. a complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and dispositions to act in certain ways: he had the attitude that work was fun

attract [əˈtrækt] – v. direct toward itself or oneself by means of some psychological power or physical attributes: Her good looks attract the stares of many men

attraction [əˈtrækʃən] – n. an entertainment that is offered to the public

attractive [əˈtræktiv] – adj. pleasing to the eye or mind especially through beauty or charm: a remarkably attractive young man

auction [ˈɔ:kʃən] – n. the public sale of something to the highest bidder

audience [ˈɔ:diəns] – n. a gathering of spectators or listeners at a (usually public) performance: the audience applauded

audit [ˈɔ:dit] – n. an inspection of the accounting procedures and records by a trained accountant or CPA

auditor [ˈɔ:ditə] – n. someone who listens attentively

aunt [ɑ:nt] – n. the sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle

author [ˈɔ:θə] – n. writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)

authorise  – v. grant authorization or clearance for

authority [əˈθɔ:riti] – n. the power or right to give orders or make decisions: he has the authority to issue warrants

automatic [.ɔ:təˈmætik] – adj. operating with minimal human intervention; independent of external control: automatic transmission

automatically  – adv. in a reflex manner: he answered automatically

autonomous [ɔ:ˈtɔnəməs] – adj. (of political bodies) not controlled by outside forces: an autonomous judiciary

autonomy [ɔ:ˈtɔnəmi] – n. immunity from arbitrary exercise of authority: political independence

autumn [ˈɔ:təm] – n. the season when the leaves fall from the trees

availability [ə.veiləˈbiliti] – n. the quality of being at hand when needed

available [əˈveiləbl] – adj. obtainable or accessible and ready for use or service: kept a fire extinguisher available

avenue [ˈævinju:] – n. a line of approach: they explored every avenue they could think of

average [ˈævəridʒ] – adj. lacking special distinction, rank, or status; commonly encountered: average people

aviation [.eiviˈeiʃən] – n. the aggregation of a country’s military aircraft

avoid [əˈvɔid] – v. stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something: Her former friends now avoid her

await [əˈweit] – v. look forward to the probable occurrence of

awake [əˈweik] – adj. not in a state of sleep; completely conscious: lay awake thinking about his new job

award [əˈwɔ:d] – n. a grant made by a law court: he criticized the awarding of compensation by the court

aware [əˈwɛə] – adj. (sometimes followed by `of’) having or showing knowledge or understanding or realization or perception: was aware of his opponent’s hostility

awareness [əˈwɛənəs] – n. having knowledge of: he had no awareness of his mistakes

away [əˈwei] – adv. from a particular thing or place or position (`forth’ is obsolete): ran away from the lion

awful [ˈɔ:ful] – adj. exceptionally bad or displeasing: an awful voice

awkward [ˈɔ:kwəd] – adj. causing inconvenience: they arrived at an awkward time

axis [ˈæksis] – n. a straight line through a body or figure that satisfies certain conditions

baby [ˈbeibi] – n. a very young child (birth to 1 year) who has not yet begun to walk or talk: the baby began to cry again

back [bæk] – v. be behind; approve of: I backed Kennedy in 1960

background [ˈbækgraund] – n. a person’s social heritage: previous experience or training: he is a lawyer with a sports background

backing [ˈbækiŋ] – n. the act of providing approval and support: his vigorous backing of the conservatives got him in trouble with progressives

backwards  – adv. at or to or toward the back or rear

bacon [ˈbeikən] – n. back and sides of a hog salted and dried or smoked; usually sliced thin and fried

bacteria [bækˈtiəriə] – n. (microbiology) single-celled or noncellular spherical or spiral or rod-shaped organisms lacking chlorophyll that reproduce by fission; important as pathogens and for biochemical properties; taxonomy is difficult; often considered to be plants

bad [bæd] – adj. having undesirable or negative qualities: a bad report card

badly [ˈbædli] – adv. to a severe or serious degree: fingers so badly frozen they had to be amputated

bag [bæg] – n. a flexible container with a single opening: he stuffed his laundry into a large bag

bail [beil] – v. release after a security has been paid

bake [beik] – v. cook and make edible by putting in a hot oven: bake the potatoes

balance [ˈbæləns] – n. a state of equilibrium

balanced [ˈbælənst] – adj. being in a state of proper equilibrium: the carefully balanced seesaw

balcony [ˈbælkəni] – n. an upper floor projecting from the rear over the main floor in an auditorium

ball [bɔ:l] – n. round object that is hit or thrown or kicked in games: the ball travelled 90 mph on his serve

ballet [ˈbælei] – n. a theatrical representation of a story that is performed to music by trained dancers

balloon [bəˈlu:n] – n. large tough nonrigid bag filled with gas or heated air

ballot [ˈbælət] – n. a document listing the alternatives that is used in voting

ban [bæn] – n. a decree that prohibits something

banana [bəˈnɑ:nə] – n. elongated crescent-shaped yellow fruit with soft sweet flesh

band [bænd] – n. an unofficial association of people or groups

bang [bæŋ] – v. strike violently

bank [bæŋk] – n. sloping land (especially the slope beside a body of water): they pulled the canoe up on the bank

banker [ˈbæŋkə] – n. the person in charge of the bank in a gambling game

banking [ˈbæŋkiŋ] – n. transacting business with a bank; depositing or withdrawing funds or requesting a loan etc.

bankruptcy [ˈbæŋkrəptsi] – n. a state of complete lack of some abstract property: spiritual bankruptcy

banner [ˈbænə] – n. long strip of cloth or paper used for decoration or advertising

bar [bɑ:] – n. a room or establishment where alcoholic drinks are served over a counter: he drowned his sorrows in whiskey at the bar

bare [bɛə] – adj. completely unclothed: bare bodies

barely [ˈbɛəli] – adv. only a very short time before: they could barely hear the speaker

bargain [ˈbɑ:gin] – n. an agreement between parties (usually arrived at after discussion) fixing obligations of each: he made a bargain with the devil

barn [bɑ:n] – n. an outlying farm building for storing grain or animal feed and housing farm animals

barrel [ˈbærəl] – n. a tube through which a bullet travels when a gun is fired

barrier [ˈbæriə] – n. a structure or object that impedes free movement

base [beis] – n. installation from which a military force initiates operations: the attack wiped out our forward bases

basement [ˈbeismənt] – n. the lowermost portion of a structure partly or wholly below ground level; often used for storage

basic [ˈbeisik] – adj. reduced to the simplest and most significant form possible without loss of generality: a basic story line

basically [ˈbeisikəli] – adv. in essence; at bottom or by one’s (or its) very nature: He is basically dishonest

basin [ˈbeisn] – n. a bowl-shaped vessel; usually used for holding food or liquids: she mixed the dough in a large basin

basis [ˈbeisis] – n. a relation that provides the foundation for something: he worked on an interim basis

basket [ˈbɑ:skit] – n. a container that is usually woven and has handles

bass [beis] – n. the lowest part of the musical range

bastard [ˈbæstəd] – n. insulting terms of address for people who are stupid or irritating or ridiculous

bat [bæt] – n. (baseball) a turn trying to get a hit: he was at bat when it happened

batch [bætʃ] – n. all the loaves of bread baked at the same time

bath [bɑ:θ] – n. a relatively large open container that you fill with water and use to wash the body

bathroom [ˈbæθrum] – n. a room or building equipped with one or more toilets

battery [ˈbætəri] – n. group of guns or missile launchers operated together at one place

battle [ˈbætl] – n. a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war: Grant won a decisive victory in the battle of Chickamauga

bay [bei] – n. an indentation of a shoreline larger than a cove but smaller than a gulf

beach [bi:tʃ] – n. an area of sand sloping down to the water of a sea or lake

beam [bi:m] – n. a signal transmitted along a narrow path; guides airplane pilots in darkness or bad weather

bean [bi:n] – n. any of various edible seeds of plants of the family Leguminosae used for food

bear [bɛə] – v. have: bear a resemblance

beard [biəd] – n. the hair growing on the lower part of a man’s face

bearing [ˈbɛəriŋ] – n. relevant relation or interconnection: those issues have no bearing on our situation

beast [bi:st] – n. a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

beat [bi:t] – v. come out better in a competition, race, or conflict: Agassi beat Becker in the tennis championship

beautiful [ˈbju:təfəl] – adj. delighting the senses or exciting intellectual or emotional admiration: a beautiful child

beautifully  – adv. in a beautiful manner: her face was beautifully made up

beauty [ˈbju:ti] – n. the qualities that give pleasure to the senses

become [biˈkʌm] – v. enter or assume a certain state or condition

bed [bed] – n. a piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep: he sat on the edge of the bed

bedroom [ˈbedrum, ru:m] – n. a room used primarily for sleeping

bee [bi:] – n. any of numerous hairy-bodied insects including social and solitary species

beef [bi:f] – n. cattle that are reared for their meat

beer [biə] – n. a general name for alcoholic beverages made by fermenting a cereal (or mixture of cereals) flavored with hops

before [biˈfɔ:] – adv. earlier in time; previously: I had known her before

beg [beg] – v. call upon in supplication; entreat: I beg you to stop!

begin [biˈgin] – v. take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

beginning [biˈginiŋ] – n. the event consisting of the start of something: the beginning of the war

behalf [biˈhɑ:f] – n. as the agent of or on someone’s part (usually expressed as: on behalf of

behave [biˈheiv] – v. behave well or properly: The children must learn to behave

behaviour  – n. the action or reaction of something (as a machine or substance) under specified circumstances

behind [biˈhaind] – adv. in or to or toward the rear: he followed behind

being [ˈbi:iŋ] – n. the state or fact of existing: a point of view gradually coming into being

belief [biˈli:f] – n. any cognitive content held as true

believe [biˈli:v] – v. accept as true; take to be true: I believed his report

bell [bel] – n. a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck

belly [ˈbeli] – n. the region of the body of a vertebrate between the thorax and the pelvis

belong [biˈlɔŋ] – v. be owned by; be in the possession of: This book belongs to me

below [biˈləu] – adv. at a later place: see below

belt [belt] – n. a band to tie or buckle around the body (usually at the waist)

bench [bentʃ] – n. a long seat for more than one person

bend [bend] – n. a circular segment of a curve: a bend in the road

beneficial [.beniˈfiʃəl] – adj. promoting or enhancing well-being: an arms limitation agreement beneficial to all countries

beneficiary [.beniˈfiʃəri] – n. the semantic role of the intended recipient who benefits from the happening denoted by the verb in the clause

benefit [ˈbenifit] – n. financial assistance in time of need

besides [biˈsaidz] – adv. making an additional point; anyway: I don’t want to go to a restaurant; besides, we can’t afford it

best [best] – n. the supreme effort one can make: they did their best

bet [bet] – v. stake on the outcome of an issue: I bet $100 on that new horse

betray [biˈtrei] – v. reveal unintentionally: Her smile betrayed her true feelings

better [ˈbetə] – n. something superior in quality or condition or effect: a change for the better

beyond [biˈjɔnd] – adv. farther along in space or time or degree: through the valley and beyond

bias [ˈbaiəs] – n. a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation

Bible [ˈbaibl] – n. the sacred writings of the Christian religions

bicycle [ˈbaisikl] – n. a wheeled vehicle that has two wheels and is moved by foot pedals

bid [bid] – v. propose a payment

big [big] – adj. above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent: set out for the big city

bike [baik] – n. a motor vehicle with two wheels and a strong frame

bile [bail] – n. a digestive juice secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder; aids in the digestion of fats

bill [bil] – n. a statute in draft before it becomes law: they held a public hearing on the bill

bin [bin] – n. a container; usually has a lid

bind [baind] – v. stick to firmly

binding [ˈbaindiŋ] – n. the capacity to attract and hold something

biography [baiˈɔgrəfi] – n. an account of the series of events making up a person’s life

biological  – adj. of parents and children; related by blood: biological child

biology [baiˈɔlədʒi] – n. the science that studies living organisms

bird [bə:d] – n. warm-blooded egg-laying vertebrates characterized by feathers and forelimbs modified as wings

birth [bə:θ] – n. the time when something begins (especially life): they divorced after the birth of the child

birthday [ˈbə:θdei] – n. an anniversary of the day on which a person was born (or the celebration of it)

biscuit [ˈbiskit] – n. small round bread leavened with baking-powder or soda

bishop [ˈbiʃəp] – n. port wine mulled with oranges and cloves

bit [bit] – n. a small piece or quantity of something: a bit of paper

bitch  – n. an unpleasant difficulty: this problem is a real bitch

bite [bait] – n. a small amount of solid food; a mouthful

bitter [ˈbitə] – adj. marked by strong resentment or cynicism: bitter about the divorce

bitterly [ˈbitəli] – adv. indicating something hard to accept: he was bitterly disappointed

bizarre [biˈzɑ:] – adj. conspicuously or grossly unconventional or unusual: restaurants of bizarre design–one like a hat, another like a rabbit

black [blæk] – adj. of or belonging to a racial group having dark skin especially of sub-Saharan African origin: a great people–a black people–…injected new meaning and dignity into the veins of civilization

blade [bleid] – n. especially a leaf of grass or the broad portion of a leaf as distinct from the petiole

blame [bleim] – v. harass with constant criticism

blank [blæŋk] – n. a piece of material ready to be made into something

blanket [ˈblæŋkit] – n. bedding that keeps a person warm in bed

blast [blɑ:st] – v. make a strident sound: She tended to blast when speaking into a microphone

bleak [bli:k] – adj. offering little or no hope: prospects were bleak

bleed [bli:d] – v. lose blood from one’s body

bless [bles] – v. give a benediction to: The dying man blessed his son

blind [blaind] – n. people who have severe visual impairments, considered as a group: he spent hours reading to the blind

blink [bliŋk] – v. briefly shut the eyes: The TV announcer never seems to blink

block [blɔk] – v. render unsuitable for passage: block the way

bloke  – n. a boy or man: he’s a good bloke

blonde [blɔnd] – n. a person with fair skin and hair

blood [blʌd] – n. temperament or disposition: a person of hot blood

bloody [ˈblʌdi] – adj. informal intensifiers: a bloody fool

blow [bləu] – v. exhale hard: blow on the soup to cool it down

blue [blu:] – adj. of the color intermediate between green and violet; having a color similar to that of a clear unclouded sky: October’s bright blue weather

board [bɔ:d] – n. a committee having supervisory powers: the board has seven members

boast [bəust] – v. show off

boat [bəut] – n. a small vessel for travel on water

bodily [ˈbɔdili] – adj. affecting or characteristic of the body as opposed to the mind or spirit: bodily needs

body [ˈbɔdi] – n. the entire structure of an organism (an animal, plant, or human being): he felt as if his whole body were on fire

boil [bɔil] – v. be agitated

boiler [ˈbɔilə] – n. sealed vessel where water is converted to steam

bold [bəuld] – adj. fearless and daring: bold settlers on some foreign shore

bolt [bəult] – n. a discharge of lightning accompanied by thunder

bomb [bɔm] – n. an explosive device fused to explode under specific conditions

bomber [ˈbɔmə] – n. a person who plants bombs

bond [bɔnd] – n. an electrical force linking atoms

bone [bəun] – n. rigid connective tissue that makes up the skeleton of vertebrates

bonus [ˈbəunəs] – n. anything that tends to arouse

book [buk] – n. physical objects consisting of a number of pages bound together: he used a large book as a doorstop

booking [ˈbukiŋ] – n. employment for performers or performing groups that lasts for a limited period of time: the play had bookings throughout the summer

booklet [ˈbuklit] – n. a small book usually having a paper cover

boom [bu:m] – n. a deep prolonged loud noise

boost [bu:st] – v. increase

boot [bu:t] – n. footwear that covers the whole foot and lower leg

border [ˈbɔ:də] – n. a line that indicates a boundary

bored  – adj. tired of the world: bored with life

boring [ˈbɔ:riŋ] – n. the act of drilling

borough [ˈbʌrə] – n. one of the administrative divisions of a large city

borrow [ˈbɔrəu] – v. get temporarily: May I borrow your lawn mower?

boss [bɔs] – n. a person who exercises control over workers

both [bəuθ] – adj. (used with count nouns) two considered together; the two: both girls are pretty

bother [ˈbɔðə] – v. take the trouble to do something; concern oneself: Don’t bother, please

bottle [ˈbɔtl] – n. a vessel fitted with a flexible teat and filled with milk or formula; used as a substitute for breast feeding infants and very young children

bottom [ˈbɔtəm] – n. the lower side of anything

bounce [bauns] – v. spring back; spring away from an impact: The rubber ball bounced

boundary [ˈbaundri] – n. the line or plane indicating the limit or extent of something

bourgeois [buəˈʒwɑ:] – adj. (according to Marxist thought) being of the property-owning class and exploitive of the working class

bow [bəu,bau] – n. a knot with two loops and loose ends; used to tie shoelaces

bowel [ˈbauəl] – n. the part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus

bowl [bəul] – n. a round vessel that is open at the top; used chiefly for holding food or liquids

bowler [ˈbəulər] – n. a cricketer who delivers the ball to the batsman in cricket

box [bɔks] – n. a (usually rectangular) container; may have a lid: he rummaged through a box of spare parts

boxing [ˈbɔksiŋ] – n. fighting with the fists

boy [bɔi] – n. a youthful male person: the baby was a boy

boyfriend  – n. a man who is the lover of a girl or young woman: if I’d known he was her boyfriend I wouldn’t have asked

bracket [ˈbrækit] – n. a category falling within certain defined limits

brain [brein] – n. mental ability: he’s got plenty of brains but no common sense

brake [breik] – n. a restraint used to slow or stop a vehicle

branch [brɑ:ntʃ] – n. a division of some larger or more complex organization: a branch of Congress

brand [brænd] – n. a name given to a product or service

brandy [ˈbrændi] – n. distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice

brass [brɑ:s] – n. an alloy of copper and zinc

brave [breiv] – adj. possessing or displaying courage; able to face and deal with danger or fear without flinching: Familiarity with danger makes a brave man braver but less daring

breach [bri:tʃ] – n. a failure to perform some promised act or obligation

bread [bred] – n. food made from dough of flour or meal and usually raised with yeast or baking powder and then baked

break [breik] – v. terminate: break a lucky streak

breakdown [ˈbreikdaun] – n. the act of disrupting an established order so it fails to continue: his warning came after the breakdown of talks in London

breakfast [ˈbrekfəst] – v. eat an early morning meal: We breakfast at seven

breast [brest] – n. the front of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen: he beat his breast in anger

breath [breθ] – n. the air that is inhaled and exhaled in respiration: his sour breath offended her

breathe [bri:ð] – v. draw air into, and expel out of, the lungs: I can breathe better when the air is clean

breed [bri:d] – v. call forth

breeze [bri:z] – n. a slight wind (usually refreshing): the breeze was cooled by the lake

brewery  – n. a plant where beer is brewed by fermentation

brick [brik] – n. rectangular block of clay baked by the sun or in a kiln; used as a building or paving material

bride [braid] – n. a woman who has recently been married

bridge [bridʒ] – n. a structure that allows people or vehicles to cross an obstacle such as a river or canal or railway etc.

brief [bri:f] – adj. of short duration or distance: a brief stay in the country

briefly [ˈbri:fli] – adv. for a short time: she visited him briefly

brigade [briˈgeid] – n. army unit smaller than a division

bright [brait] – adj. emitting or reflecting light readily or in large amounts: the sun was bright and hot

brilliant [ˈbriljənt] – adj. of surpassing excellence: a brilliant performance

bring [briŋ] – v. take something or somebody with oneself somewhere: This brings me to the main point

broad [brɔ:d] – adj. having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other: a river two miles broad

broadcast [ˈbrɔ:dkɑ:st] – v. sow over a wide area, especially by hand: broadcast seeds

broadly  – adv. without regard to specific details or exceptions: he interprets the law broadly

brochure [brəuˈʃjuə] – n. a small book usually having a paper cover

broken [ˈbrəukən] – adj. physically and forcibly separated into pieces or cracked or split: a broken mirror

broker [ˈbrəukə] – n. a businessman who buys or sells for another in exchange for a commission

bronze [brɔnz] – v. get a tan, from wind or sun

brother [ˈbrʌðə] – n. a male with the same parents as someone else: my brother still lives with our parents

brow [brau] – n. the part of the face above the eyes

brown [braun] – n. an orange of low brightness and saturation

brush [brʌʃ] – n. a dense growth of bushes

bubble [ˈbʌbl] – v. flow in an irregular current with a bubbling noise

bucket [ˈbʌkit] – n. a roughly cylindrical vessel that is open at the top

budget [ˈbʌdʒit] – n. a sum of money allocated for a particular purpose: the laboratory runs on a budget of a million a year

build [bild] – v. make by combining materials and parts

builder [ˈbildə] – n. a substance added to soaps or detergents to increase their cleansing action

building [ˈbildiŋ] – n. a structure that has a roof and walls and stands more or less permanently in one place: there was a three-story building on the corner

bulb [bʌlb] – n. a modified bud consisting of a thickened globular underground stem serving as a reproductive structure

bulk [bʌlk] – n. the property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part: the bulk of the work is finished

bull [bul] – n. uncastrated adult male of domestic cattle

bullet [ˈbulit] – n. a projectile that is fired from a gun

bulletin [ˈbulitin] – n. a brief report (especially an official statement issued for immediate publication or broadcast)

bump [bʌmp] – v. knock against with force or violence: My car bumped into the tree

bunch [bʌntʃ] – n. a grouping of a number of similar things: a bunch of trees

bundle [ˈbʌndl] – v. gather or cause to gather into a cluster

burden [ˈbə:dn] – n. an onerous or difficult concern: the burden of responsibility

bureau [ˈbjuərəu] – n. an administrative unit of government

bureaucracy [bjuəˈrɔkrəsi] – n. nonelective government officials

bureaucratic [bjuə.rəuˈkrætik] – adj. of or relating to or resembling a bureaucrat or bureaucracy: his bureaucratic behavior annoyed his colleagues

burial [ˈberiəl] – n. the ritual placing of a corpse in a grave

burn [bə:n] – v. destroy by fire: They burned the house and his diaries

burning [ˈbə:niŋ] – n. pain that feels hot as if it were on fire

burst [bə:st] – v. come open suddenly and violently, as if from internal pressure: The bubble burst

bury [ˈberi] – v. cover from sight

bus [bʌs] – n. a vehicle carrying many passengers; used for public transport: he always rode the bus to work

bush [buʃ] – n. a low woody perennial plant usually having several major stems

business [ˈbiznis] – n. a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it: he bought his brother’s business

businessman  – n. a person engaged in commercial or industrial business (especially an owner or executive)

busy [ˈbizi] – adj. actively or fully engaged or occupied: busy with her work

butter [ˈbʌtə] – n. an edible emulsion of fat globules made by churning milk or cream; for cooking and table use

butterfly [ˈbʌtəflai] – v. cut and spread open, as in preparation for cooking

button [ˈbʌtn] – n. an electrical switch operated by pressing: the elevator was operated by push buttons

buy [bai] – v. obtain by purchase; acquire by means of a financial transaction: She buys for the big department store

buyer [ˈbaiə] – n. a person who buys

by [bai] – adv. in reserve; not for immediate use: put something by for her old age

cab [kæb] – n. a compartment at the front of a motor vehicle or locomotive where driver sits

cabin [ˈkæbin] – n. small room on a ship or boat where people sleep

cabinet [ˈkæbinit] – n. a piece of furniture resembling a cupboard with doors and shelves and drawers; for storage or display

cable [ˈkeibl] – n. a telegram sent abroad

cafe [kəˈfei] – n. a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold

cage [keidʒ] – n. an enclosure made or wire or metal bars in which birds or animals can be kept

cake [keik] – n. a block of solid substance (such as soap or wax)

calcium [ˈkælsiəm] – n. a white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth’s crust; an important component of most plants and animals

calculate [ˈkælkjuleit] – v. judge to be probable

calculation [.kælkjuˈleiʃən] – n. problem solving that involves numbers or quantities

calendar [ˈkælində] – n. a system of timekeeping that defines the beginning and length and divisions of the year

calf [kɑ:f] – n. the muscular back part of the shank

call [kɔ:l] – v. assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

calm [kɑ:m] – v. make steady

calorie [ˈkæləri] – n. a unit of heat equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree at one atmosphere pressure; used by nutritionists to characterize the energy-producing potential in food

camera [ˈkæmərə] – n. equipment for taking photographs (usually consisting of a lightproof box with a lens at one end and light-sensitive film at the other)

camp [kæmp] – n. temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers: wherever he went in the camp the men were grumbling

campaign [kæmˈpein] – n. a race between candidates for elective office: I managed his campaign for governor

can [kæn] – n. airtight sealed metal container for food or drink or paint etc.

canal [kəˈnæl] – n. a bodily passage or tube lined with epithelial cells and conveying a secretion or other substance: the alimentary canal

cancel [ˈkænsl] – v. postpone indefinitely or annul something that was scheduled: cancel the dinner party

cancer [ˈkænsə] – n. (astrology) a person who is born while the sun is in Cancer

candidate [ˈkændidit] – n. a politician who is running for public office

candle [ˈkændl] – n. stick of wax with a wick in the middle

canvas [ˈkænvəs] – n. a heavy, closely woven fabric (used for clothing or chairs or sails or tents)

cap [kæp] – n. a tight-fitting headdress

capability [.keipəˈbiləti] – n. the susceptibility of something to a particular treatment: the capability of a metal to be fused

capable [ˈkeipəbl] – adj. possibly accepting or permitting: a passage capable of misinterpretation

capacity [kəˈpæsiti] – n. the susceptibility of something to a particular treatment

capital [ˈkæpitl] – n. assets available for use in the production of further assets

capitalism [ˈkæpitəlizəm] – n. an economic system based on private ownership of capital

capitalist [ˈkæpitəlist] – n. a person who invests capital in a business (especially a large business)

captain [ˈkæptin] – n. an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

capture [ˈkæptʃə] – v. succeed in representing or expressing something intangible: capture the essence of Spring

car [kɑ:] – n. a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine: he needs a car to get to work

caravan [ˈkærəvæn] – n. a procession (of wagons or mules or camels) traveling together in single file: we were part of a caravan of almost a thousand camels

carbon [ˈkɑ:bən] – n. a copy made with carbon paper

card [kɑ:d] – n. one of a set of small pieces of stiff paper marked in various ways and used for playing games or for telling fortunes: he collected cards and traded them with the other boys

care [kɛə] – n. the work of providing treatment for or attending to someone or something: no medical care was required

career [kəˈriə] – n. the particular occupation for which you are trained

careful [ˈkɛəfəl] – adj. cautiously attentive: careful of her feelings

carefully  – adv. taking care or paying attention: they watched carefully

cargo [ˈkɑ:gəu] – n. goods carried by a large vehicle

carpet [ˈkɑ:pit] – n. floor covering consisting of a piece of thick heavy fabric (usually with nap or pile)

carriage [ˈkæridʒ] – n. a railcar where passengers ride

carrier [ˈkæriə] – n. a self-propelled wheeled vehicle designed specifically to carry something: refrigerated carriers have revolutionized the grocery business

carrot [ˈkærət] – n. orange root; important source of carotene

carry [ˈkæri] – v. move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one’s hands or on one’s body: You must carry your camping gear

cart [kɑ:t] – n. a heavy open wagon usually having two wheels and drawn by an animal

carve [kɑ:v] – v. engrave or cut by chipping away at a surface: carve one’s name into the bark

case [keis] – n. an occurrence of something: it was a case of bad judgment

cash [kæʃ] – n. money in the form of bills or coins: there is a desperate shortage of hard cash

cassette [kəˈset] – n. a container that holds a magnetic tape used for recording or playing sound or video

cast [kɑ:st] – v. put or send forth: cast a spell

castle [ˈkɑ:sl] – n. a large and stately mansion

casual [ˈkæʒjuəl] – adj. marked by blithe unconcern: an ability to interest casual students

casualty [ˈkæʒjuəlti] – n. someone injured or killed or captured or missing in a military engagement

cat [kæt] – n. an informal term for a youth or man

catalogue [ˈkætəlɔg] – n. a complete list of things; usually arranged systematically

catch [kætʃ] – v. perceive with the senses quickly, suddenly, or momentarily: ears open to catch every sound

category [ˈkætigəri] – n. a collection of things sharing a common attribute

cater [ˈkeitə] – v. give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance

cathedral [kəˈθi:drəl] – n. any large and important church

cattle [ˈkætl] – n. domesticated bovine animals as a group regardless of sex or age: so many head of cattle

causal [ˈkɔ:zəl] – adj. involving or constituting a cause; causing: a causal relationship between scarcity and higher prices

cause [kɔ:z] – n. events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something: they are trying to determine the cause of the crash

caution [ˈkɔ:ʃən] – n. a warning against certain acts

cautious [ˈkɔ:ʃəs] – adj. showing careful forethought: reserved and cautious; never making swift decisions

cave [keiv] – n. a geological formation consisting of an underground enclosure with access from the surface of the ground or from the sea

cease [si:s] – v. put an end to a state or an activity

ceiling [ˈsi:liŋ] – n. the overhead upper surface of a covered space: he hated painting the ceiling

celebrate [ˈselibreit] – v. behave as expected during of holidays or rites: celebrate Christmas

celebration [.seliˈbreiʃən] – n. a joyful occasion for special festivities to mark some happy event

cell [sel] – n. any small compartment: the cells of a honeycomb

cellar [ˈselə] – n. the lowermost portion of a structure partly or wholly below ground level; often used for storage

cemetery [ˈsemitri] – n. a tract of land used for burials

census [ˈsensəs] – n. a periodic count of the population

central [ˈsentrəl] – adj. serving as an essential component: the central cause of the problem

centre [ˈsentə] – n. an area that is approximately central within some larger region

century [ˈsentʃuri] – n. a period of 100 years

cereal [ˈsiəriəl] – n. grass whose starchy grains are used as food: wheat; rice; rye; oats; maize; buckwheat; millet

ceremony [ˈseriməni] – n. a formal event performed on a special occasion: a ceremony commemorating Pearl Harbor

certain [ˈsə:tn] – adj. definite but not specified or identified: set aside a certain sum each week

certainly [ˈsə:tənli] – adv. definitely or positively (`sure’ is sometimes used informally for `surely’): she certainly is a hard worker

certainty [ˈsə:tnti] – n. something that is certain: his victory is a certainty

certificate [səˈtifikit] – n. a document attesting to the truth of certain stated facts

chain [tʃein] – n. a series of things depending on each other as if linked together: the chain of command

chair [tʃɛə] – n. a seat for one person, with a support for the back: he put his coat over the back of the chair and sat down

chairman [ˈtʃɛəmən] – n. the officer who presides at the meetings of an organization

chalk [tʃɔ:k] – n. a soft whitish calcite

challenge [ˈtʃælindʒ] – n. a demanding or stimulating situation: they reacted irrationally to the challenge of Russian power

chamber [ˈtʃeimbə] – n. a natural or artificial enclosed space

champagne [ʃæmˈpein] – n. a white sparkling wine either produced in Champagne or resembling that produced there

champion [ˈtʃæmpjən] – n. someone who has won first place in a competition

championship [ˈtʃæmpjənʃip] – n. a competition at which a champion is chosen

chance [tʃɑ:ns] – n. a possibility due to a favorable combination of circumstances: now is your chance

chancellor [ˈtʃɑ:nsələ] – n. the British cabinet minister responsible for finance

change [tʃeindʒ] – n. an event that occurs when something passes from one state or phase to another: the change was intended to increase sales

changing  – adj. marked by continuous change or effective action

channel [ˈtʃænl] – n. a path over which electrical signals can pass: a channel is typically what you rent from a telephone company

chaos [ˈkeiɔs] – n. a state of extreme confusion and disorder

chap [tʃæp] – n. a boy or man: that chap is your host

chapel [ˈtʃæpəl] – n. a place of worship that has its own altar

chapter [ˈtʃæptə] – n. a subdivision of a written work; usually numbered and titled: he read a chapter every night before falling asleep

character [ˈkæriktə] – n. an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story): she is the main character in the novel

characterise  – v. describe or portray the character or the qualities or peculiarities of

characteristic [.kæriktəˈristik] – n. a prominent attribute or aspect of something: generosity is one of his best characteristics

characterize [ˈkæriktəraiz] – v. be characteristic of: What characterizes a Venetian painting?

charge [tʃɑ:dʒ] – v. to make a rush at or sudden attack upon, as in battle

charity [ˈtʃæriti] – n. a foundation created to promote the public good (not for assistance to any particular individuals)

charm [tʃɑ:m] – n. attractiveness that interests or pleases or stimulates

chart [tʃɑ:t] – v. plan in detail: Bush is charting a course to destroy Saddam Hussein

charter [ˈtʃɑ:tə] – v. hold under a lease or rental agreement; of goods and services

chase [tʃeis] – v. go after with the intent to catch: The policeman chased the mugger down the alley

chat [tʃæt] – n. an informal conversation

cheap [tʃi:p] – adj. relatively low in price or charging low prices: it would have been cheap at twice the price

check [tʃek] – v. examine so as to determine accuracy, quality, or condition: check the brakes

cheek [tʃi:k] – n. either side of the face below the eyes

cheer [tʃiə] – v. give encouragement to

cheerful [ˈtʃiəfəl] – adj. pleasantly (even unrealistically) optimistic

cheese [tʃi:z] – n. a solid food prepared from the pressed curd of milk

chemical [ˈkemikəl] – adj. of or made from or using substances produced by or used in reactions involving atomic or molecular changes: chemical fertilizer

chemist [ˈkemist] – n. a health professional trained in the art of preparing and dispensing drugs

chemistry [ˈkemistri] – n. the chemical composition and properties of a substance or object: the chemistry of soil

cheque  – n. a written order directing a bank to pay money

chest [tʃest] – n. the part of the human torso between the neck and the diaphragm or the corresponding part in other vertebrates

chew [tʃu:] – n. biting and grinding food in your mouth so it becomes soft enough to swallow

chicken [ˈtʃikin] – n. a domestic fowl bred for flesh or eggs; believed to have been developed from the red jungle fowl

chief [tʃi:f] – n. a person who is in charge

child [tʃaild] – n. a young person of either sex: she writes books for children

childhood [ˈtʃaildhud] – n. the state of a child between infancy and adolescence

chimney [ˈtʃimni] – n. a glass flue surrounding the wick of an oil lamp

chin [tʃin] – n. the protruding part of the lower jaw

chip [tʃip] – n. a small fragment of something broken off from the whole

chocolate [ˈtʃɔkəlit] – n. a beverage made from cocoa powder and milk and sugar; usually drunk hot

choice [tʃɔis] – n. the act of choosing or selecting: your choice of colors was unfortunate

choir [ˈkwaiə] – n. a family of similar musical instrument playing together

choke [tʃəuk] – v. breathe with great difficulty, as when experiencing a strong emotion: She choked with emotion when she spoke about her deceased husband

choose [tʃu:z] – v. select as an alternative over another: I always choose the fish over the meat courses in this restaurant

chop [tʃɔp] – v. cut into pieces: chop meat

chord [kɔ:d] – n. a straight line connecting two points on a curve

chorus [ˈkɔ:rəs] – n. any utterance produced simultaneously by a group: a chorus of boos

chosen  – n. the name for Korea as a Japanese province (1910-1945)

chronic [ˈkrɔnik] – adj. being long-lasting and recurrent or characterized by long suffering: chronic indigestion

church [tʃə:tʃ] – n. one of the groups of Christians who have their own beliefs and forms of worship

cigarette [sigəˈret] – n. finely ground tobacco wrapped in paper; for smoking

cinema [ˈsinimə] – n. a medium that disseminates moving pictures: this story would be good cinema

circle [ˈsə:kl] – n. an unofficial association of people or groups

circuit [ˈsə:kit] – n. an electrical device that provides a path for electrical current to flow

circular [ˈsə:kjulə] – adj. describing a circle; moving in a circle: the circular motion of the wheel

circulate [ˈsə:kjuleit] – v. become widely known and passed on

circulation [.sə:kjuˈleiʃən] – n. the dissemination of copies of periodicals (as newspapers or magazines)

circumstance [ˈsə:kəmstəns] – n. a condition that accompanies or influences some event or activity

cite [sait] – v. make reference to

citizen [ˈsitizn] – n. a native or naturalized member of a state or other political community

citizenship [ˈsitizɚnʃip] – n. conduct as a citizen: award for good citizenship

city [ˈsiti] – n. a large and densely populated urban area; may include several independent administrative districts: Ancient Troy was a great city

civic [ˈsivik] – adj. of or relating or belonging to a city: civic center

civil [ˈsivil] – adj. applying to ordinary citizens as contrasted with the military: civil authorities

civilian [siˈviljən] – n. a nonmilitary citizen

civilization [.sivilaiˈzeiʃən] – n. the social process whereby societies achieve an advanced stage of development and organization

claim [kleim] – n. an assertion of a right (as to money or property): his claim asked for damages

clarify [ˈklærifai] – v. make clear and (more) comprehensible: clarify the mystery surrounding her death

clarity [ˈklæriti] – n. free from obscurity and easy to understand; the comprehensibility of clear expression

clash [klæʃ] – n. a loud resonant repeating noise

class [klɑ:s] – n. a collection of things sharing a common attribute: there are two classes of detergents

classic [ˈklæsik] – adj. of recognized authority or excellence: classical methods of navigation

classical [ˈklæsikəl] – adj. of or relating to the most highly developed stage of an earlier civilisation and its culture

classification [.klæsifiˈkeiʃən] – n. the act of distributing things into classes or categories of the same type

classify [ˈklæsifai] – v. declare unavailable, as for security reasons

classroom [ˈklɑ:srum] – n. a room in a school where lessons take place

clause [klɔ:z] – n. (grammar) an expression including a subject and predicate but not constituting a complete sentence

clay [klei] – n. a very fine-grained soil that is plastic when moist but hard when fired

clean [kli:n] – adj. free of restrictions or qualifications: a clean bill of health

cleaner  – n. the operator of dry-cleaning establishment

clear [kliə] – v. rid of obstructions

clearance [ˈkliərəns] – n. vertical space available to allow easy passage under something

clearing  – n. a tract of land with few or no trees in the middle of a wooded area

clearly [ˈkliəli] – adv. without doubt or question: they were clearly lost

clergy [ˈklə:dʒi] – n. in Christianity, clergymen collectively (as distinguished from the laity)

clerical  – adj. of or relating to the clergy: clerical collar

clerk [klɑ:k] – n. a salesperson in a store

clever [ˈklevə] – adj. showing self-interest and shrewdness in dealing with others: too clever to be sound

client [ˈklaiənt] – n. a person who seeks the advice of a lawyer

cliff [klif] – n. a steep high face of rock: he stood on a high cliff overlooking the town

climate [ˈklaimit] – n. the weather in some location averaged over some long period of time: the dank climate of southern Wales

climb [klaim] – v. go upward with gradual or continuous progress: Did you ever climb up the hill behind your house?

climber  – n. someone seeking social prominence by obsequious behavior

cling [kliŋ] – v. come or be in close contact with; stick or hold together and resist separation: The dress clings to her body

clinic [ˈklinik] – n. a medical establishment run by a group of medical specialists

clinical [ˈklinikəl] – adj. scientifically detached; unemotional: he spoke in the clipped clinical monotones typical of police testimony

clock [klɔk] – n. a timepiece that shows the time of day

close [kləus,kləuz] – v. move so that an opening or passage is obstructed; make shut

closed [kləuzd] – adj. not open or affording passage or access: the many closed streets made travel difficult

closely [ˈkləuzli] – adv. in an attentive manner

closure [ˈkləuʒə] – n. a rule for limiting or ending debate in a deliberative body

cloth [klɔθ] – n. artifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers: woven cloth originated in Mesopotamia around 5000 BC

clothes [kləuðz] – n. clothing in general: he always bought his clothes at the same store

clothing [ˈkləuðiŋ] – n. a covering designed to be worn on a person’s body

cloud [klaud] – v. make less visible or unclear: The stars are obscured by the clouds

club [klʌb] – n. a team of professional baseball players who play and travel together: each club played six home games with teams in its own division

clue [klu:] – n. a slight indication

cluster [ˈklʌstə] – n. a grouping of a number of similar things: a cluster of admirers

clutch [klʌtʃ] – n. the act of grasping

coach [kəutʃ] – n. (sports) someone in charge of training an athlete or a team

coal [kəul] – n. fossil fuel consisting of carbonized vegetable matter deposited in the Carboniferous period

coalition [.kəuəˈliʃən] – n. an organization of people (or countries) involved in a pact or treaty

coast [kəust] – n. the shore of a sea or ocean

coastal [ˈkəustl] – adj. located on or near or bordering on a coast: coastal marshes

coat [kəut] – n. a thin layer covering something: a second coat of paint

code [kəud] – n. a set of rules or principles or laws (especially written ones)

coffee [ˈkɔfi] – n. a medium brown to dark-brown color

coffin [ˈkɔfin] – n. box in which a corpse is buried or cremated

cognitive [ˈkɔgnitiv] – adj. of or being or relating to or involving cognition: cognitive psychology

coherent [kəuˈhiərənt] – adj. marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts: a coherent argument

coin [kɔin] – v. make up: coin phrases or words

coincide [.kəuinˈsaid] – v. go with, fall together

coincidence [kəuˈinsidəns] – n. an event that might have been arranged although it was really accidental

cold [kəuld] – adj. having lost freshness through passage of time: a cold trail

collaboration [kə.læbəˈreiʃən] – n. act of working jointly: they worked either in collaboration or independently

collapse [kəˈlæps] – v. break down, literally or metaphorically: The wall collapsed

collar [ˈkɔlə] – n. a band that fits around the neck and is usually folded over

colleague [ˈkɔli:g] – n. an associate that one works with

collect [ˈkɔlekt,kəˈlekt] – v. get or gather together

collection [kəˈlekʃən] – n. several things grouped together or considered as a whole

collective [kəˈlektiv] – adj. done by or characteristic of individuals acting together: the collective mind

collector [kəˈlektə] – n. a person who is employed to collect payments (as for rent or taxes)

college [ˈkɔlidʒ] – n. an institution of higher education created to educate and grant degrees; often a part of a university

colon [ˈkəulən] – n. the basic unit of money in El Salvador; equal to 100 centavos

colonel [ˈkə:nl] – n. a commissioned military officer in the United States Army or Air Force or Marines who ranks above a lieutenant colonel and below a brigadier general

colonial [kəˈləunjəl] – adj. of animals who live in colonies, such as ants

colony [ˈkɔləni] – n. a group of organisms of the same type living or growing together

colour  – n. a race with skin pigmentation different from the white race (especially Blacks)

colourful  – adj. striking in variety and interest

column [ˈkɔləm] – n. a line of units following one after another

combat [ˈkɑ:mbæt] – n. an engagement fought between two military forces

combination [.kɔmbiˈneiʃən] – n. a coordinated sequence of chess moves

combine [kəmˈbain] – v. put or add together: combine resources

combined  – adj. made or joined or united into one

come [kʌm] – v. move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody: come down here!

comedy [ˈkɔmidi] – n. light and humorous drama with a happy ending

comfort [ˈkʌmfət] – n. a state of being relaxed and feeling no pain: he is a man who enjoys his comfort

comfortable [ˈkʌmfətəbl] – adj. providing or experiencing physical well-being or relief (`comfy’ is informal): comfortable clothes

comfortably  – adv. in physical comfort: she could have been lying comfortably in bed getting the same relief

coming  – n. the act of drawing spatially closer to something

command [kəˈmɑ:nd] – n. an authoritative direction or instruction to do something

commander [kəˈmɑ:ndə] – n. someone in an official position of authority who can command or control others

commence [kəˈmens] – v. take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

comment [ˈkɔment] – n. a statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information: from time to time she contributed a personal comment on his account

commentary [ˈkɔməntəri] – n. a written explanation or criticism or illustration that is added to a book or other textual material

commentator [ˈkɔmenteitə] – n. a writer who reports and analyzes events of the day

commerce [ˈkɔmə:s] – n. transactions (sales and purchases) having the objective of supplying commodities (goods and services)

commercial [kəˈmə:ʃəl] – adj. of the kind or quality used in commerce; average or inferior: commercial grade of beef

commission [kəˈmiʃən] – n. a special group delegated to consider some matter

commissioner [kəˈmiʃənə] – n. a government administrator

commit [kəˈmit] – v. perform an act, usually with a negative connotation

commitment [kəˈmitmənt] – n. the trait of sincere and steadfast fixity of purpose: a man of energy and commitment

committee [kəˈmiti] – n. a special group delegated to consider some matter: a committee is a group that keeps minutes and loses hours

commodity [kəˈmɔditi] – n. articles of commerce

common [ˈkɔmən] – adj. belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public: for the common good

commonly [ˈkɔmənli] – adv. under normal conditions

commons  – n. a piece of open land for recreational use in an urban area

commonwealth [ˈkɔmənwelθ] – n. a politically organized body of people under a single government

communicate [kəˈmju:nikeit] – v. transmit information: Please communicate this message to all employees

communication [kə.mju:niˈkeiʃən] – n. something that is communicated by or to or between people or groups

communism [ˈkɔmjunizəm] – n. a form of socialism that abolishes private ownership

communist [ˈkɔmjunist] – n. a socialist who advocates communism

community [kəˈmju:niti] – n. a group of people living in a particular local area: the team is drawn from all parts of the community

compact [kəmˈpækt] – v. compress into a wad

companion [kəmˈpænjən] – n. a traveler who accompanies you

company [ˈkʌmpəni] – n. an institution created to conduct business: he started the company in his garage

comparable [ˈkɔmpərəbl] – adj. conforming in every respect

comparative [kəmˈpærətiv] – adj. estimated by comparison; not absolute or complete

comparatively [kəmˈpærətivli] – adv. in a relative manner; by comparison to something else

compare [kəmˈpɛə] – v. examine and note the similarities or differences of: John compared his haircut to his friend’s

comparison [kəmˈpærisn] – n. the act of examining resemblances: they made a comparison of noise levels

compartment [kəmˈpɑ:tmənt] – n. a space into which an area is subdivided

compatible [kəmˈpætəbl] – adj. able to exist and perform in harmonious or agreeable combination: a compatible married couple

compel [kəmˈpel] – v. force somebody to do something: We compel all students to fill out this form

compensate [ˈkɔmpenseit] – v. adjust for

compensation [.kɔmpenˈseiʃən] – n. something (such as money) given or received as payment or reparation (as for a service or loss or injury)

compete [kəmˈpi:t] – v. compete for something; engage in a contest; measure oneself against others

competence [ˈkɔmpitəns] – n. the quality of being adequately or well qualified physically and intellectually

competent [ˈkɔmpitənt] – adj. properly or sufficiently qualified or capable or efficient: a competent typist

competition [.kɔmpiˈtiʃən] – n. an occasion on which a winner is selected from among two or more contestants

competitive [kəmˈpetitiv] – adj. subscribing to capitalistic competition

competitor [kəmˈpetitə] – n. the contestant you hope to defeat

compile [kəmˈpail] – v. get or gather together

complain [kəmˈplein] – v. make a formal accusation; bring a formal charge: The plaintiff’s lawyer complained that he defendant had physically abused his client

complaint [kəmˈpleint] – n. (formerly) a loud cry (or repeated cries) of pain or rage or sorrow

complement [ˈkɔmplimənt] – n. a complete number or quantity: a full complement

complementary [kɔmpləˈmentəri] – adj. of words or propositions so related that each is the negation of the other: `male’ and `female’ are complementary terms

complete [kəmˈpli:t] – v. come or bring to a finish or an end: She completed the requirements for her Master’s Degree

completely [kəmˈpli:tli] – adv. so as to be complete; with everything necessary: he had filled out the form completely

completion [kəmˈpli:ʃ(ə)n] – n. (American football) a successful forward pass in football

complex [ˈkɔmpleks] – n. a compound described in terms of the central atom to which other atoms are bound or coordinated

complexity [kəmˈpleksiti] – n. the quality of being intricate and compounded: he enjoyed the complexity of modern computers

compliance [kəmˈplaiəns] – n. acting according to certain accepted standards

complicate [ˈkɔmplikeit] – v. make more complex, intricate, or richer

complicated [ˈkɔmplikeitid] – adj. difficult to analyze or understand: a complicated problem

complication [.kɔmpliˈkeiʃən] – n. a situation or condition that is complex or confused: her coming was a serious complication

comply [kəmˈplai] – v. act in accordance with someone’s rules, commands, or wishes: You must comply or else!

component [kəmˈpəunənt] – n. an abstract part of something: jealousy was a component of his character

compose [kəmˈpəuz] – v. form the substance of: Greed and ambition composed his personality

composer [kɔmˈpəuzə] – n. someone who composes music as a profession

composition [.kɔmpəˈziʃən] – n. the spatial property resulting from the arrangement of parts in relation to each other and to the whole: harmonious composition is essential in a serious work of art

compound [ˈkɔmpaund,kɔmˈpaund] – v. make more intense, stronger, or more marked

comprehensive [.kɔmpriˈhensiv] – adj. including all or everything: comprehensive coverage

comprise [kəmˈpraiz] – v. include or contain; have as a component: A totally new idea is comprised in this paper

compromise [ˈkɔmprəmaiz] – v. settle by concession

compulsory [kəmˈpʌlsəri] – adj. required by rule: in most schools physical education is compulsory

compute [kəmˈpju:t] – v. make a mathematical calculation or computation

computer [kəmˈpju:tə] – n. a machine for performing calculations automatically

computing  – n. the procedure of calculating; determining something by mathematical or logical methods

conceal [kənˈsi:l] – v. prevent from being seen or discovered

concede [kənˈsi:d] – v. admit (to a wrongdoing)

conceive [kənˈsi:v] – v. have the idea for: He conceived of a robot that would help paralyzed patients

concentrate [ˈkɔnsentreit] – v. make denser, stronger, or purer: concentrate juice

concentration [.kɔnsenˈtreiʃən] – n. the strength of a solution; number of molecules of a substance in a given volume

concept [ˈkɔnsept] – n. an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

conception [kənˈsepʃən] – n. an abstract or general idea inferred or derived from specific instances

conceptual [kənˈseptʃuəl, -tjuəl] – adj. being or characterized by concepts or their formation: conceptual discussions

concern [kənˈsə:n] – n. something that interests you because it is important or affects you: the safety of the ship is the captain’s concern

concert [ˈkɔnsət] – v. contrive (a plan) by mutual agreement

concession [kənˈseʃən] – n. a contract granting the right to operate a subsidiary business: he got the beer concession at the ball park

conclude [kənˈklu:d] – v. bring to a close: The committee concluded the meeting

conclusion [kənˈklu:ʒən] – n. a position or opinion or judgment reached after consideration: his conclusion took the evidence into account

concrete [ˈkɔnkri:t] – v. cover with cement: concrete the walls

condemn [kənˈdem] – v. express strong disapproval of: We condemn the racism in South Africa

condition [kənˈdiʃən] – n. a state at a particular time: a condition (or state) of disrepair

conduct [kənˈdʌkt] – v. direct the course of; manage or control: You cannot conduct business like this

conductor [kənˈdʌktə] – n. the person who leads a musical group

confer [kənˈfə:] – v. present: The university conferred a degree on its most famous former student, who never graduated

conference [ˈkɔnfərəns] – n. a prearranged meeting for consultation or exchange of information or discussion (especially one with a formal agenda)

confess [kənˈfes] – v. admit (to a wrongdoing): She confessed that she had taken the money

confession [kənˈfeʃən] – n. an admission of misdeeds or faults

confidence [ˈkɔnfidəns] – n. freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities: after that failure he lost his confidence

confident [ˈkɔnfidənt] – adj. persuaded of; very sure: was confident he would win

confidential [.kɑ:nfiˈdenʃəl] – adj. (of information) given in confidence or in secret: this arrangement must be kept confidential

configuration [kən.figjuˈreiʃən] – n. an arrangement of parts or elements: the outcome depends on the configuration of influences at the time

confine [kənˈfain] – v. place limits on (extent or access)

confirm [kənˈfə:m] – v. establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts: his story confirmed my doubts

confirmation [.kɔnfəˈmeiʃən] – n. additional proof that something that was believed (some fact or hypothesis or theory) is correct: fossils provided further confirmation of the evolutionary theory

conflict [ˈkɔnflikt] – n. an open clash between two opposing groups (or individuals): the harder the conflict the more glorious the triumph

conform [kənˈfɔ:m] – v. be similar, be in line with

confront [kənˈfrʌnt] – v. oppose, as in hostility or a competition: You must confront your opponent

confrontation [.kɔnfrʌnˈteiʃən] – n. a bold challenge

confuse [kənˈfju:z] – v. mistake one thing for another

confusion [kənˈfju:ʒən] – n. disorder resulting from a failure to behave predictably: the army retreated in confusion

congratulate [kənˈgrætju.leit] – v. say something to someone that expresses praise

congregation [.kɔŋgriˈgeiʃən] – n. a group of people who adhere to a common faith and habitually attend a given church

congress [ˈkɔŋgres] – n. the legislature of the United States government

conjunction [kənˈdʒʌŋkʃən] – n. the temporal property of two things happening at the same time

connect [kəˈnekt] – v. be or become joined or united or linked: The two streets connect to become a highway

connection [kəˈnekʃən] – n. a relation between things or events (as in the case of one causing the other or sharing features with it): there was a connection between eating that pickle and having that nightmare

conscience [ˈkɔnʃəns] – n. motivation deriving logically from ethical or moral principles that govern a person’s thoughts and actions

conscious [ˈkɔnʃəs] – adj. intentionally conceived: a conscious effort to speak more slowly

consciousness [ˈkɔnʃəsnəs] – n. an alert cognitive state in which you are aware of yourself and your situation: he lost consciousness

consensus [kənˈsensəs] – n. agreement in the judgment or opinion reached by a group as a whole: the lack of consensus reflected differences in theoretical positions

consent [kənˈsent] – n. permission to do something: he indicated his consent

consequence [ˈkɔnsikwəns] – n. a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon: his decision had depressing consequences for business

consequently [ˈkɔnsikwəntli] – adv. (sentence connectors) because of the reason given: consequently, he didn’t do it

conservation [.kɔnsə:ˈveiʃən] – n. an occurrence of improvement by virtue of preventing loss or injury or other change

conservative [kənˈsə:vətiv] – adj. resistant to change

consider [kənˈsidə] – v. deem to be: I consider her to be shallow

considerable [kənˈsidərəbl] – adj. large or relatively large in number or amount or extent or degree: a considerable quantity

considerably [kənˈsidərəbəli] – adv. to a great extent or degree: painting the room white made it seem considerably (or substantially) larger

consideration [kənsidəˈreiʃən] – n. the process of giving careful thought to something

consist [kənˈsist] – v. originate (in)

consistency [kənˈsistənsi] – n. the property of holding together and retaining its shape: when the dough has enough consistency it is ready to bake

consistent [kənˈsistənt] – adj. capable of being reproduced

consistently [kənˈsistəntli] – adv. in a systematic or consistent manner

consolidate [kənˈsɔlideit] – v. unite into one: The companies consolidated

consortium [kənˈsɔ:tjəm] – n. an association of companies for some definite purpose

conspiracy [kənˈspirəsi] – n. a secret agreement between two or more people to perform an unlawful act

constable [ˈkʌnstəbl] – n. a lawman with less authority and jurisdiction than a sheriff

constant [ˈkɔnstənt] – adj. unvarying in nature: maintained a constant temperature

constantly [ˈkɔnstəntli] – adv. without variation or change, in every case: constantly kind and gracious

constituency [kənˈstitjuənsi] – n. the body of voters who elect a representative for their area

constituent [kənˈstitjuənt] – n. a member of a constituency; a citizen who is represented in a government by officials for whom he or she votes: needs continued support by constituents to be re-elected

constitute [ˈkɔnstitju:t] – v. form or compose: These constitute my entire belonging

constitution [.kɔnstiˈtju:ʃən] – n. law determining the fundamental political principles of a government

constitutional [.kɔnstiˈtju:ʃənəl] – adj. of benefit to or intended to benefit your physical makeup: constitutional walk

constrain [kənˈstrein] – v. hold back

constraint [kənˈstreint] – n. a device that retards something’s motion

construct [ˈkɔnstrʌkt,kənˈstrʌkt] – v. make by combining materials and parts: Some eccentric constructed an electric brassiere warmer

construction [kənˈstrʌkʃən] – n. a group of words that form a constituent of a sentence and are considered as a single unit: I concluded from his awkward constructions that he was a foreigner

constructive  – adj. emphasizing what is laudable or hopeful or to the good: constructive criticism

consult [kənˈsʌlt] – v. get or ask advice from: They had to consult before arriving at a decision

consultant [kənˈsʌltənt] – n. an expert who gives advice

consultation [.kɔnsəlˈteiʃən] – n. a conference (usually with someone important): he had a consultation with the judge

consume [kənˈsju:m] – v. eat immoderately

consumer [kənˈsju:mə] – n. a person who uses goods or services

consumption [kənˈsʌmpʃən] – n. the process of taking food into the body through the mouth (as by eating)

contact [ˈkɔntækt] – n. close interaction: they kept in daily contact

contain [kənˈtein] – v. lessen the intensity of; temper; hold in restraint; hold or keep within limits

container [kənˈteinə] – n. any object that can be used to hold things (especially a large metal boxlike object of standardized dimensions that can be loaded from one form of transport to another)

contemplate [ˈkɔntem.pleit] – v. look at thoughtfully; observe deep in thought: contemplate one’s navel

contemporary [kənˈtempərəri] – adj. characteristic of the present: contemporary trends in design

contempt [kənˈtempt] – n. lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislike: he was held in contempt

contend [kənˈtend] – v. maintain or assert: He contended that Communism had no future

content [ˈkɔntent,kənˈtent] – n. everything that is included in a collection and that is held or included in something: he emptied the contents of his pockets

contest [ˈkɔntest,kənˈtest] – n. a struggle between rivals

context [ˈkɔntekst] – n. discourse that surrounds a language unit and helps to determine its interpretation

continent [ˈkɔntinənt] – n. one of the large landmasses of the earth: there are seven continents

continental [.kɔntiˈnentl] – adj. of or pertaining to or typical of Europe

continually  – adv. seemingly without interruption: complained continually that there wasn’t enough money

continuation [kən.tinjuˈeiʃən] – n. a part added to a book or play that continues and extends it

continue [kənˈtinju:] – v. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last: continue the family tradition

continued  – adj. without stop or interruption: to insure the continued success of the war

continuing  – adj. remaining in force or being carried on without letup: the act provided a continuing annual appropriation

continuity [.kɔntiˈnju:iti] – n. uninterrupted connection or union

continuous [kənˈtinjuəs] – adj. of a function or curve; extending without break or irregularity

continuously [kənˈtinjʊəsli] – adv. at every point: The function is continuously differentiable

contraction [kənˈtrækʃən] – n. (physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber)

contractor [kənˈtræktə(r)] – n. the bridge player in contract bridge who wins the bidding and can declare which suit is to be trumps

contractual [kənˈtræktjuəl] – adj. relating to or part of a binding legal agreement: contractual obligations

contradiction [.kɔntrəˈdikʃən] – n. opposition between two conflicting forces or ideas

contrary [ˈkɔntrəri] – adj. very opposed in nature or character or purpose: acts contrary to our code of ethics

contrast [ˈkɔntræst,kənˈtræst] – n. the opposition or dissimilarity of things that are compared: in contrast to

contribute [kənˈtribju:t] – v. bestow a quality on

contribution [.kɔntriˈbju:ʃən] – n. the part played by a person in bringing about a result: I am proud of my contribution in advancing the project

control [kənˈtrəul] – n. power to direct or determine: under control

controlled  – adj. restrained or managed or kept within certain bounds: controlled emotions

controller [kənˈtrəulə] – n. someone who maintains and audits business accounts

controversial [.kɔntrəˈvə:ʃəl] – adj. marked by or capable of arousing controversy: the issue of the death penalty is highly controversial

controversy [ˈkɔntrəvə:si] – n. a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement

convenience [kənˈvi:njəns] – n. the state of being suitable or opportune: chairs arranged for his own convenience

convenient [kənˈvi:njənt] – adj. suited to your comfort or purpose or needs: a convenient excuse for not going

convention [kənˈvenʃən] – n. a large formal assembly: political convention

conventional [kənˈvenʃənl] – adj. following accepted customs and proprieties: conventional wisdom

conversation [.kɔnvəˈseiʃən] – n. the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.

conversely [kənˈvə:sli] – adv. with the terms of the relation reversed: conversely, not all women are mothers

conversion [kənˈvə:ʃən] – n. an event that results in a transformation

convert [ˈkɔnvə:t,kənˈvə:t] – v. change from one system to another or to a new plan or policy: We converted from 220 to 110 Volt

convey [kənˈvei] – v. make known; pass on, of information: She conveyed the message to me

convict [ˈkɔnvikt,kənˈvikt] – n. a person serving a sentence in a jail or prison

conviction [kənˈvikʃən] – n. an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence

convince [kənˈvins] – v. make (someone) agree, understand, or realize the truth or validity of something: He had finally convinced several customers of the advantages of his product

convincing [kənˈvinsiŋ] – adj. causing one to believe the truth of something: a convincing story

cook [kuk] – v. prepare a hot meal: My husband doesn’t cook

cooking  – n. the act of preparing something (as food) by the application of heat: cooking can be a great art

cool [ku:l] – adj. marked by calm self-control (especially in trying circumstances); unemotional: play it cool

cooperation [kəu.ɔpəˈreiʃən] – n. joint operation or action: their cooperation with us was essential for the success of our mission

coordinate [kəuˈɔ:dneit] – v. bring order and organization to

cop [kɔp] – v. take by theft

cope [kəup] – n. brick that is laid sideways at the top of a wall

copper [ˈkɔpə] – n. uncomplimentary terms for a policeman

copy [ˈkɔpi] – n. a thing made to be similar or identical to another thing: she made a copy of the designer dress

copyright [ˈkɔpirait] – n. a document granting exclusive right to publish and sell literary or musical or artistic work

cord [kɔ:d] – n. a line made of twisted fibers or threads: the bundle was tied with a cord

core [kɔ:] – n. a small group of indispensable persons or things: five periodicals make up the core of their publishing program

corn [kɔ:n] – n. a hard thickening of the skin (especially on the top or sides of the toes) caused by the pressure of ill-fitting shoes

corner [ˈkɔ:nə] – n. a place off to the side of an area: he tripled to the rightfield corner

corporate [ˈkɔ:pərit] – adj. possessing or existing in bodily form: `corporate’ is an archaic term

corps [kɔ:] – n. an army unit usually consisting of two or more divisions and their support

corpse [kɔ:ps] – n. the dead body of a human being: the end of the police search was the discovery of a corpse

correct [kəˈrekt] – v. make reparations or amends for

correction [kəˈrekʃən] – n. the act of offering an improvement to replace a mistake; setting right

correctly [kəˈrektli] – adv. in an accurate manner: the flower had been correctly depicted by his son

correlation [, kɔrəˈleiʃən] – n. a reciprocal relation between two or more things

correspond [.kɔrisˈpɔnd] – v. be compatible, similar or consistent; coincide in their characteristics

correspondence [.kɔriˈspɔndəns] – n. communication by the exchange of letters

correspondent [.kɔriˈspɔndənt] – n. someone who communicates by means of letters

corresponding [.kɔriˈspɔndiŋ] – adj. accompanying: all rights carry with them corresponding responsibilities

corridor [ˈkɔridɔ:] – n. an enclosed passageway; rooms usually open onto it

corruption [kəˈrʌpʃən] – n. lack of integrity or honesty (especially susceptibility to bribery); use of a position of trust for dishonest gain

cost [kɔst] – n. the total spent for goods or services including money and time and labor

costly [ˈkɔstli] – adj. entailing great loss or sacrifice

costume [ˈkɔstju:m] – n. the attire worn in a play or at a fancy dress ball: he won the prize for best costume

cottage [ˈkɔtidʒ] – n. a small house with a single story

cotton [ˈkɔtn] – n. erect bushy mallow plant or small tree bearing bolls containing seeds with many long hairy fibers

cough [kɔf] – v. exhale abruptly, as when one has a chest cold or congestion: The smoker coughs all day

council [ˈkaunsil] – n. a body serving in an administrative capacity: student council

councillor  – n. a member of a council

counsel [ˈkaunsəl] – n. a lawyer who pleads cases in court

counselling  – n. something that provides direction or advice as to a decision or course of action

counsellor  – n. someone who has supervisory duties at a summer camp

count  – v. determine the number or amount of: Can you count the books on your shelf?

counter [ˈkauntə] – n. table consisting of a horizontal surface over which business is transacted

counterpart [ˈkauntəpɑ:t] – n. a person or thing having the same function or characteristics as another

country [ˈkʌntri] – n. a politically organized body of people under a single government: the country’s largest manufacturer

countryside [ˈkʌntriˈsaid] – n. rural regions

county [ˈkaunti] – n. (United Kingdom) a region created by territorial division for the purpose of local government: the county has a population of 12,345 people

coup [ku:] – n. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force

couple [ˈkʌpl] – n. a pair who associate with one another: the engaged couple

courage [ˈkʌridʒ] – n. a quality of spirit that enables you to face danger or pain without showing fear

course [kɔ:s] – n. education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings: he took a course in basket weaving

court [kɔ:t] – n. an assembly (including one or more judges) to conduct judicial business

courtesy [ˈkə:tisi] – n. a courteous or respectful or considerate remark

courtyard [ˈkɔ:tˈjɑ:d] – n. an area wholly or partly surrounded by walls or buildings

cousin [ˈkʌzn] – n. the child of your aunt or uncle

covenant [ˈkʌvənənt] – n. a signed written agreement between two or more parties (nations) to perform some action

cover [ˈkʌvə] – v. span an interval of distance, space or time: The period covered the turn of the century

coverage [ˈkʌvəridʒ] – n. the total amount and type of insurance carried

cow [kau] – n. female of domestic cattle:: `moo-cow’ is a child’s term

crack [kræk] – v. make a very sharp explosive sound: His gun cracked

craft [krɑ:ft] – n. the skilled practice of a practical occupation

craftsman [ˈkrɑ:ftsmən] – n. a professional whose work is consistently of high quality: as an actor he was a consummate craftsman

crash [kræʃ] – v. fall or come down violently: The branch crashed down on my car

crawl [krɔ:l] – v. move slowly; in the case of people or animals with the body near the ground: The crocodile was crawling along the riverbed

crazy [ˈkreizi] – adj. affected with madness or insanity

cream [kri:m] – v. beat thoroughly and conclusively in a competition or fight

create [kriˈeit] – v. make or cause to be or to become: create a furor

creation [kriˈeiʃən] – n. an artifact that has been brought into existence by someone

creative [kriˈeitiv] – adj. promoting construction or creation: creative work

creature [ˈkri:tʃə] – n. a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

credibility  – n. the quality of being believable or trustworthy

credit [ˈkredit] – n. approval: he was given credit for his work

creditor [ˈkreditə] – n. a person to whom money is owed by a debtor; someone to whom an obligation exists

creed [kri:d] – n. any system of principles or beliefs

creep [kri:p] – n. someone unpleasantly strange or eccentric

crew [kru:] – n. an organized group of workmen

cricket [ˈkrikit] – n. leaping insect; male makes chirping noises by rubbing the forewings together

crime [kraim] – n. an evil act not necessarily punishable by law: crimes of the heart

criminal [ˈkriminəl] – adj. bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure: a criminal waste of talent

crisis [ˈkraisis] – n. an unstable situation of extreme danger or difficulty: they went bankrupt during the economic crisis

criterion [kraiˈtiəriən] – n. a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated

critic [ˈkritik] – n. a person who is professionally engaged in the analysis and interpretation of works of art

critical [ˈkritikəl] – adj. marked by a tendency to find and call attention to errors and flaws: a critical attitude

criticise  – v. act as a critic

criticism [ˈkriti.sizəm] – n. disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings: the senator received severe criticism from his opponent

criticize [ˈkritisaiz] – v. act as a critic: Those who criticize others often are not perfect, either

critique [kriˈti:k] – n. a serious examination and judgment of something

crop [krɔp] – n. the yield from plants in a single growing season

cross [krɔs] – v. meet at a point

crossing [ˈkrɔsiŋ] – n. a shallow area in a stream that can be forded

crouch [ˈkrautʃ] – v. bend one’s back forward from the waist on down: he crouched down

crowd [kraud] – v. fill or occupy to the point of overflowing: The students crowded the auditorium

crown [kraun] – n. the Crown (or the reigning monarch) as the symbol of the power and authority of a monarchy

crucial [ˈkru:ʃəl] – adj. of extreme importance; vital to the resolution of a crisis: a crucial moment in his career

crude [kru:d] – adj. not carefully or expertly made: managed to make a crude splint

cruel [ˈkru:əl] – adj. (of persons or their actions) able or disposed to inflict pain or suffering: cruel tortures

cruelty [ˈkru:əlti] – n. feelings of extreme heartlessness

crush [krʌʃ] – v. come down on or keep down by unjust use of one’s authority

cry [krai] – v. shed tears because of sadness, rage, or pain

crystal [ˈkristl] – n. a solid formed by the solidification of a chemical and having a highly regular atomic structure

cult [kʌlt] – n. followers of an exclusive system of religious beliefs and practices

cultivate [ˈkʌltiveit] – v. foster the growth of

cultural [ˈkʌltʃər(ə)l] – adj. of or relating to the arts and manners that a group favors: cultural events

culture [ˈkʌltʃə] – n. a particular society at a particular time and place

cup [kʌp] – n. a small open container usually used for drinking; usually has a handle: he put the cup back in the saucer

cupboard [ˈkʌbəd] – n. a small room (or recess) or cabinet used for storage space

cure [kjuə] – v. prepare by drying, salting, or chemical processing in order to preserve: cure meats

curiosity [.kjuəriˈɔsiti] – n. a state in which you want to learn more about something

curious [ˈkjuəriəs] – adj. beyond or deviating from the usual or expected: a curious hybrid accent

curiously  – adv. in a manner differing from the usual or expected: had a curiously husky voice

curl [kə:l] – v. wind around something in coils or loops

currency [ˈkʌrənsi] – n. the metal or paper medium of exchange that is presently used

current [ˈkʌrənt] – n. a flow of electricity through a conductor: the current was measured in amperes

currently [ˈkʌrəntli] – adv. at this time or period; now: currently they live in Connecticut

curriculum [kəˈrikjuləm] – n. an integrated course of academic studies

curtain [ˈkə:tn] – n. hanging cloth used as a blind (especially for a window)

curve [kə:v] – n. the trace of a point whose direction of motion changes

cushion [ˈkuʃən] – n. a mechanical damper; absorbs energy of sudden impulses

custody [ˈkʌstədi] – n. a state of being confined (usually for a short time): he is in the custody of police

custom [ˈkʌstəm] – n. accepted or habitual practice

customer [ˈkʌstəmə] – n. someone who pays for goods or services

cut [kʌt] – v. separate with or as if with an instrument

cutting [ˈkʌtiŋ] – n. the activity of selecting the scenes to be shown and putting them together to create a film

cycle [ˈsaikl] – n. an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs: the never-ending cycle of the seasons

cylinder [ˈsilində] – n. a surface generated by rotating a parallel line around a fixed line

daily [ˈdeili] – adj. of or belonging to or occurring every day: daily routine

dairy [ˈdɛəri] – n. a farm where dairy products are produced

damage [ˈdæmidʒ] – n. the occurrence of a change for the worse

damaging  – adj. (sometimes followed by `to’) causing harm or injury: damaging to career and reputation

damn [dæm] – adj. used as expletives: oh, damn (or goddamn)!

damp [dæmp] – v. deaden (a sound or noise), especially by wrapping

dance [dɑ:ns] – n. an artistic form of nonverbal communication

dancer [ˈdɑ:nsə] – n. a person who participates in a social gathering arranged for dancing (as a ball)

dancing  – n. taking a series of rhythmical steps (and movements) in time to music

danger [ˈdeindʒə] – n. the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury: you are in no danger

dangerous [ˈdeindʒərəs] – adj. causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm: a dangerous operation

dare [dɛə] – v. take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission: How dare you call my lawyer?

dark [dɑ:k] – adj. devoid of or deficient in light or brightness; shadowed or black: sitting in a dark corner

darkness [ˈdɑ:knis] – n. absence of light or illumination

darling [ˈdɑ:liŋ] – n. a special loved one

dash [dæʃ] – n. distinctive and stylish elegance: he wooed her with the confident dash of a cavalry officer

data [ˈdeitə] – n. a collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn: statistical data

database [ˈdeitə.beis] – n. an organized body of related information

date [deit] – n. the specified day of the month: what is the date today?

daughter [ˈdɔ:tə] – n. a female human offspring: her daughter cared for her in her old age

dawn [dɔ:n] – n. the earliest period: the dawn of civilization

day [dei] – n. time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis: two days later they left

daylight [ˈdeilait] – n. the time after sunrise and before sunset while it is light outside

dead [ded] – adj. no longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life: the nerve is dead

deadline [ˈdedlain] – n. the point in time at which something must be completed

deadly [ˈdedli] – adj. causing or capable of causing death: a deadly enemy

deaf [def] – adj. (usually followed by `to’) unwilling or refusing to pay heed: deaf to her warnings

deal [di:l] – v. act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression: This book deals with incest

dealer [ˈdi:lə] – n. someone who purchases and maintains an inventory of goods to be sold

dealing [ˈdi:liŋ] – n. method or manner of conduct in relation to others: honest dealing

dear [diə] – adj. with or in a close or intimate relationship: my sisters and brothers are near and dear

death [deθ] – n. the event of dying or departure from life: her death came as a terrible shock

debate [diˈbeit] – v. argue with one another: We debated the question of abortion

debt [det] – n. the state of owing something (especially money): he is badly in debt

debtor [ˈdetə] – n. a person who owes a creditor; someone who has the obligation of paying a debt

debut [ˈdeibju:] – v. present for the first time to the public: The band debuts a new song or two each month

decade [ˈdekeid] – n. a period of 10 years

decay [diˈkei] – n. the process of gradually becoming inferior

decent [ˈdi:snt] – adj. socially or conventionally correct; refined or virtuous: from a decent family

decide [diˈsaid] – v. bring to an end; settle conclusively: The case was decided

decision [diˈsiʒən] – n. the act of making up your mind about something: the burden of decision was his

decisive [diˈsaisiv] – adj. determining or having the power to determine an outcome: cast the decisive vote

deck [dek] – n. any of various platforms built into a vessel

declaration [.dekləˈreiʃən] – n. a statement that is emphatic and explicit (spoken or written)

declare [diˈklɛə] – v. state emphatically and authoritatively: He declared that he needed more money to carry out the task he was charged with

decline [diˈklain] – v. grow worse

decorate [ˈdekəreit] – v. make more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.

decoration [.dekəˈreiʃən] – n. something used to beautify

decorative [ˈdekərətiv] – adj. serving an esthetic rather than a useful purpose: the buildings were utilitarian rather than decorative

decrease [ˈdi:kri:s,di:ˈkri:s] – n. a change downward: there was a decrease in his temperature as the fever subsided

decree [diˈkri:] – v. decide with authority: The King decreed that all firstborn males should be killed

dedicate [ˈdedikeit] – v. give entirely to a specific person, activity, or cause

deed [di:d] – n. something that people do or cause to happen

deem [di:m] – v. keep in mind or convey as a conviction or view

deep [di:p] – adj. marked by depth of thinking: deep thoughts

deeply [ˈdi:pli] – adv. to a great depth psychologically: They felt the loss deeply

deer [diə] – n. distinguished from Bovidae by the male’s having solid deciduous antlers

default [diˈfɔ:lt] – n. loss due to not showing up: he lost the game by default

defeat [diˈfi:t] – n. an unsuccessful ending to a struggle or contest: it was a narrow defeat

defect [diˈfekt] – n. an imperfection in a bodily system: visual defects

defence  – n. (psychiatry) an unconscious process that tries to reduce the anxiety associated with instinctive desires

defend [diˈfend] – v. be on the defensive; act against an attack

defendant [diˈfendənt] – n. a person or institution against whom an action is brought in a court of law; the person being sued or accused

defender  – n. a person who cares for persons or property

defensive [diˈfensiv] – adj. attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing

deficiency [diˈfiʃənsi] – n. the state of needing something that is absent or unavailable: water is the critical deficiency in desert regions

deficit [ˈdefisit] – n. the property of being an amount by which something is less than expected or required: new blood vessels bud out from the already dilated vascular bed to make up the nutritional deficit

define [diˈfain] – v. determine the essential quality of

definite [ˈdefinit] – adj. known for certain: it is definite that they have won

definitely [ˈdefinitli] – adv. without question and beyond doubt

definition [.defiˈniʃən] – n. a concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol

defy [diˈfai] – v. resist or confront with resistance

degree [diˈgri:] – n. a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality: it is all a matter of degree

delay [diˈlei] – v. act later than planned, scheduled, or required: Don’t delay your application to graduate school or else it won’t be considered

delegate [ˈdeligeit,ˈdeligit] – v. transfer power to someone

delegation [.deliˈgeiʃən] – n. authorizing subordinates to make certain decisions

delete [diˈli:t] – v. remove or make invisible: Please delete my name from your list

deliberate [diˈlibərit] – v. think about carefully; weigh

deliberately [diˈlibərətli] – adv. with intention; in an intentional manner

delicate [ˈdelikit] – adj. exquisitely fine and subtle and pleasing; susceptible to injury: a delicate violin passage

delicious [diˈliʃəs] – adj. greatly pleasing or entertaining: a delicious joke

delight [diˈlait] – v. give pleasure to or be pleasing to

delightful [diˈlaitful] – adj. greatly pleasing or entertaining: a delightful surprise

deliver [diˈlivə] – v. to surrender someone or something to another: the guard delivered the criminal to the police

delivery [diˈlivəri] – n. the event of giving birth: she had a difficult delivery

demand [diˈmɑ:nd] – v. request urgently and forcefully: The victim’s family is demanding compensation

democracy [diˈmɔkrəsi] – n. the political orientation of those who favor government by the people or by their elected representatives

democrat [ˈdeməkræt] – n. a member of the Democratic Party

democratic [.deməˈkrætik] – adj. belong to or relating to the Democratic Party

demolish [diˈmɔliʃ] – v. destroy completely: the wrecking ball demolished the building

demonstrate [ˈdemənstreit] – v. give an exhibition of to an interested audience

demonstration [.demənsˈtreiʃən] – n. a show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view: he gave the customer a demonstration

demonstrator [ˈdemənstreitə] – n. someone who demonstrates an article to a prospective buyer

denial [diˈnaiəl] – n. the act of refusing to comply (as with a request): it resulted in a complete denial of his privileges

denounce [diˈnauns] – v. speak out against: He denounced the Nazis

dense [dens] – adj. having high relative density or specific gravity: dense as lead

density [ˈdensiti] – n. the amount per unit size

dentist [ˈdentist] – n. a person qualified to practice dentistry

deny [diˈnai] – v. refuse to accept or believe

depart [diˈpɑ:t] – v. move away from a place into another direction: The train departs at noon

department [diˈpɑ:tmənt] – n. a specialized division of a large organization: you’ll find it in the hardware department

departmental  – adj. of or relating to a department: departmental policy

departure [diˈpɑ:tʃə] – n. a variation that deviates from the standard or norm

depend [diˈpend] – v. be contingent upon (something that is elided): That depends

dependence [diˈpendəns] – n. the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else

dependency  – n. the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else

dependent [diˈpendənt] – adj. relying on or requiring a person or thing for support, supply, or what is needed: dependent children

depict [diˈpikt] – v. show in, or as in, a picture: This scene depicts country life

deploy [diˈplɔi] – v. place troops or weapons in battle formation

deposit [diˈpɔzit] – n. the phenomenon of sediment or gravel accumulating

depot [ˈdepəu; ˈdi:-] – n. station where transport vehicles load or unload passengers or goods

depression [diˈpreʃən] – n. a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity

deprivation [.depriˈveiʃən] – n. a state of extreme poverty

deprive [diˈpraiv] – v. take away possessions from someone

depth [depθ] – n. the extent downward or backward or inward: the depth of the water

deputy [ˈdepjuti] – n. someone authorized to exercise the powers of sheriff in emergencies

derive [diˈraiv] – v. reason by deduction; establish by deduction

descend [diˈsend] – v. move downward and lower, but not necessarily all the way

descent [diˈsent] – n. a movement downward

describe [diˈskraib] – v. to give an account or representation of in words: Discreet Italian police described it in a manner typically continental

description [diˈskripʃən] – n. a statement that represents something in words

desert [ˈdezət,diˈzə:t] – v. leave someone who needs or counts on you; leave in the lurch: The mother deserted her children

deserve [diˈzə:v] – v. be worthy or deserving: You deserve a promotion after all the hard work you have done

design [diˈzain] – n. the act of working out the form of something (as by making a sketch or outline or plan): he contributed to the design of a new instrument

designate [ˈdezigneit] – v. assign a name or title to

designer [diˈzainə] – n. someone who creates plans to be used in making something (such as buildings)

desirable [diˈzaiərəbl] – adj. worth having or seeking or achieving: a desirable job

desire [diˈzaiə] – n. the feeling that accompanies an unsatisfied state

desired  – adj. wanted intensely: it produced the desired effect

desk [desk] – n. a piece of furniture with a writing surface and usually drawers or other compartments

desktop  – n. (computer science) the area of the screen in graphical user interfaces against which icons and windows appear

despair [diˈspɛə] – n. a state in which all hope is lost or absent: in the depths of despair

desperate [ˈdespərit] – adj. arising from or marked by despair or loss of hope: a desperate cry for help

desperately [ˈdespəritli] – adv. with great urgency: the soil desperately needed potash

destination [.destiˈneiʃən] – n. the place designated as the end (as of a race or journey): he was nearly exhausted as their destination came into view

destiny [ˈdestini] – n. an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future

destroy [disˈtrɔi] – v. do away with, cause the destruction or undoing of: The fire destroyed the house

destruction [diˈstrʌkʃən] – n. the termination of something by causing so much damage to it that it cannot be repaired or no longer exists

detail [ˈdi:teil] – n. an isolated fact that is considered separately from the whole: several of the details are similar

detain [diˈtein] – v. deprive of freedom; take into confinement

detect [diˈtekt] – v. discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of: She detected high levels of lead in her drinking water

detection [diˈtekʃən] – n. the perception that something has occurred or some state exists: early detection can often lead to a cure

detective [diˈtektiv] – n. a police officer who investigates crimes

detector  – n. rectifier that extracts modulation from a radio carrier wave

detention  – n. a state of being confined (usually for a short time): his detention was politically motivated

deter [diˈtə:] – v. try to prevent; show opposition to

deteriorate [diˈtiəriəreit] – v. become worse or disintegrate: His mind deteriorated

determination [di.tə:miˈneiʃən] – n. the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; firmness of purpose: his determination showed in his every movement

determine [diˈtə:min] – v. establish after a calculation, investigation, experiment, survey, or study

determined [diˈtə:mind] – adj. characterized by great determination: a struggle against a determined enemy

develop [diˈveləp] – v. make something new, such as a product or a mental or artistic creation: Her company developed a new kind of building material that withstands all kinds of weather

developer  – n. photographic equipment consisting of a chemical solution for developing film

developing [diˈveləpiŋ] – n. processing a photosensitive material in order to make an image visible

development [diˈveləpmənt] – n. act of improving by expanding or enlarging or refining: he congratulated them on their development of a plan to meet the emergency

deviation [.di:viˈeiʃən] – n. the difference between an observed value and the expected value of a variable or function

device [diˈvais] – n. an instrumentality invented for a particular purpose: the device is small enough to wear on your wrist

devil [ˈdevl] – n. (Judeo-Christian and Islamic religions) chief spirit of evil and adversary of God; tempter of mankind; master of Hell

devise [diˈvaiz] – v. come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort

devote [diˈvəut] – v. give entirely to a specific person, activity, or cause

devoted [diˈvəutid] – adj. (followed by `to’) dedicated exclusively to a purpose or use: large sums devoted to the care of the poor

diagnose [ˈdaiəgnəuz] – v. subject to a medical analysis

diagnosis [.daiəgˈnəusis] – n. identifying the nature or cause of some phenomenon

diagram [ˈdaiəgræm] – n. a drawing intended to explain how something works; a drawing showing the relation between the parts

dialogue [ˈdaiəlɔg] – n. a conversation between two persons

diameter [daiˈæmitə] – n. the length of a straight line passing through the center of a circle and connecting two points on the circumference

diamond [ˈdaiəmənd] – n. very hard native crystalline carbon valued as a gem

diary [ˈdaiəri] – n. a daily written record of (usually personal) experiences and observations

dictate [ˈdikteit,dikˈteit] – v. issue commands or orders for

dictionary [ˈdikʃəneri] – n. a reference book containing an alphabetical list of words with information about them

die [dai] – v. suffer or face the pain of death: Martyrs may die every day for their faith

diet [ˈdaiət] – n. a prescribed selection of foods

differ [ˈdifə] – v. be different: These two tests differ in only one respect

difference [ˈdifərəns] – n. the quality of being unlike or dissimilar: there are many differences between jazz and rock

different [ˈdifərənt] – adj. unlike in nature or quality or form or degree: took different approaches to the problem

differential [.difəˈrenʃəl] – n. a quality that differentiates between similar things

differentiate [.difəˈrenʃi.eit] – v. be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense

differentiation  – n. the mathematical process of obtaining the derivative of a function

differently [ˈdifrentli] – adv. in another and different manner: very soon you will know differently

difficult [ˈdifikəlt] – adj. not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure: a difficult task

difficulty [ˈdifikəlti] – n. an effort that is inconvenient: had difficulty walking

dig [dig] – v. turn up, loosen, or remove earth

digital [ˈdidʒitəl] – adj. displaying numbers rather than scale positions: digital clock

dignity [ˈdigniti] – n. the quality of being worthy of esteem or respect: it was beneath his dignity to cheat

dilemma [diˈlemə] – n. state of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options

dimension [diˈmenʃən] – n. the magnitude of something in a particular direction (especially length or width or height)

diminish [diˈminiʃ] – v. decrease in size, extent, or range

dine [dain] – v. give dinner to; host for dinner

dining  – n. the act of eating dinner

dinner [ˈdinə] – n. the main meal of the day served in the evening or at midday: dinner will be at 8

dioxide [daiˈɔksaid] – n. an oxide containing two atoms of oxygen in the molecule

dip [dip] – v. immerse briefly into a liquid so as to wet, coat, or saturate: dip the garment into the cleaning solution

diplomat [ˈdipləmæt] – n. an official engaged in international negotiations

diplomatic [.dipləˈmætik] – adj. using or marked by tact in dealing with sensitive matters or people: the hostess averted a confrontation with a diplomatic chenage of subject

direct [diˈrekt] – v. command with authority: He directed the children to do their homework

direction [diˈrekʃən] – n. a line leading to a place or point: he looked the other direction

directive [diˈrektiv, daiˈrektiv] – n. a pronouncement encouraging or banning some activity: the boss loves to send us directives

directly [diˈrektli, daiˈrektli] – adv. without deviation: the path leads directly to the lake

director [diˈrektə, daiˈrektə] – n. someone who controls resources and expenditures

directory [diˈrektəri] – n. an alphabetical list of names and addresses

dirt [də:t] – n. the state of being covered with unclean things

dirty [ˈdə:ti] – adj. (of behavior or especially language) characterized by obscenity or indecency: dirty words

disability [.disəˈbiliti] – n. the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness: reading disability

disabled [disˈeib(ə)ld] – n. people collectively who are crippled or otherwise physically handicapped: technology to help the elderly and the disabled

disadvantage [.disədˈvæntidʒ] – n. the quality of having an inferior or less favorable position

disagree [.disəˈgri:] – v. be of different opinions: She disagrees with her husband on many questions

disagreement [disəˈgri:mənt] – n. a conflict of people’s opinions or actions or characters

disappear [.disəˈpiə] – v. get lost, as without warning or explanation: He disappeared without a trace

disappoint [.disəˈpɔint] – v. fail to meet the hopes or expectations of

disappointment [.disəˈpɔintmənt] – n. a feeling of dissatisfaction that results when your expectations are not realized: his hopes were so high he was doomed to disappointment

disaster [diˈzɑ:stə] – n. a state of extreme (usually irremediable) ruin and misfortune: his policies were a disaster

disastrous [diˈzɑ:strəs] – adj. (of events) having extremely unfortunate or dire consequences; bringing ruin: the battle was a disastrous end to a disastrous campaign

disc [disk] – n. something with a round shape resembling a flat circular plate

discard [ˈdiskɑ:d,disˈkɑ:d] – n. (cards) the act of throwing out a useless card or of failing to follow suit

discharge [disˈtʃɑ:dʒ] – v. complete or carry out: discharge one’s duties

disciplinary [ˈdisiplinəri] – adj. relating to a specific field of academic study: economics in its modern disciplinary sense

discipline [ˈdisiplin] – n. a branch of knowledge: in what discipline is his doctorate?

disclose [disˈkləuz] – v. make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret: The auction house would not disclose the price at which the van Gogh had sold

disclosure  – n. the speech act of making something evident

disco [ˈdiskəu] – n. a public dance hall for dancing to recorded popular music

discourage [disˈkʌridʒ] – v. try to prevent; show opposition to: We should discourage this practice among our youth

discourse [disˈkɔ:s, ˈdiskɔ:s] – n. extended verbal expression in speech or writing

discover [disˈkʌvə] – v. get to know or become aware of, usually accidentally

discovery [disˈkʌvəri] – n. something that is discovered

discretion [diˈskreʃən] – n. freedom to act or judge on one’s own

discrimination [di.skrimiˈneiʃən] – n. unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice

discuss [diˈskʌs] – v. to consider or examine in speech or writing: The class discussed Dante’s `Inferno’

discussion [diˈskʌʃən] – n. an extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topic: the book contains an excellent discussion of modal logic

disease [diˈzi:z] – n. an impairment of health or a condition of abnormal functioning

disguise [disˈgaiz] – n. an outward semblance that misrepresents the true nature of something: the theatrical notion of disguise is always associated with catastrophe in his stories

dish [diʃ] – n. a particular item of prepared food: she prepared a special dish for dinner

disk [disk] – n. something with a round shape resembling a flat circular plate: the moon’s disk hung in a cloudless sky

dislike [disˈlaik] – n. an inclination to withhold approval from some person or group

dismiss [disˈmis] – v. bar from attention or consideration: She dismissed his advances

dismissal [disˈmisəl] – n. a judgment disposing of the matter without a trial

disorder [disˈɔ:də] – n. a physical condition in which there is a disturbance of normal functioning: the doctor prescribed some medicine for the disorder

disperse [disˈpə:s] – v. distribute loosely

display [diˈsplei] – n. something intended to communicate a particular impression: made a display of strength

disposal [diˈspəuzəl] – n. the power to use something or someone: used all the resources at his disposal

dispose [diˈspəuz] – v. give, sell, or transfer to another: She disposed of her parents’ possessions

disposition [.dispəˈziʃən] – n. your usual mood: he has a happy disposition

dispute [diˈspju:t] – n. a disagreement or argument about something important: he had a dispute with his wife

disrupt [disˈrʌpt] – v. make a break in

disruption  – n. an act of delaying or interrupting the continuity

dissolve [diˈzɔlv] – v. become weaker

distance [ˈdistəns] – n. the property created by the space between two objects or points

distant [ˈdistənt] – adj. far apart in relevance or relationship or kinship: a distant cousin

distinct [diˈstiŋkt] – adj. (often followed by `from’) not alike; different in nature or quality: plants of several distinct types

distinction [diˈstiŋkʃən] – n. high status importance owing to marked superiority

distinctive [disˈtiŋktiv] – adj. capable of being classified

distinctly [diˈstiŋktli] – adv. in a distinct and distinguishable manner: the subtleties of this distinctly British occasion

distinguish [diˈstiŋgwiʃ] – v. mark as different: We distinguish several kinds of maple

distort [disˈtɔ:t] – v. make false by mutilation or addition; as of a message or story

distortion [disˈtɔ:ʃən] – n. a change for the worse

distract [diˈstrækt] – v. draw someone’s attention away from something: The thief distracted the bystanders

distress [diˈstres] – n. psychological suffering: the death of his wife caused him great distress

distribute [diˈstribjut] – v. administer or bestow, as in small portions

distributed  – adj. spread out or scattered about or divided up

distribution [.distriˈbju:ʃən] – n. (statistics) an arrangement of values of a variable showing their observed or theoretical frequency of occurrence

distributor [disˈtribjutə] – n. someone who markets merchandise

district [ˈdistrikt] – n. a region marked off for administrative or other purposes

disturb [disˈtə:b] – v. move deeply

disturbance [disˈtə:bəns] – n. activity that is a malfunction, intrusion, or interruption: he looked around for the source of the disturbance

dive [daiv] – n. a headlong plunge into water

diverse [daiˈvə:s] – adj. many and different: a person of diverse talents

diversity [daiˈvə:siti] – n. noticeable heterogeneity: a diversity of possibilities

divert [daiˈvə:t] – v. turn aside; turn away from

divide [diˈvaid] – v. separate into parts or portions: divide the cake into three equal parts

dividend [ˈdividend] – n. that part of the earnings of a corporation that is distributed to its shareholders; usually paid quarterly

divine [diˈvain] – adj. emanating from God: divine judgment

division [diˈviʒən] – n. an army unit large enough to sustain combat: two infantry divisions were held in reserve

divorce [diˈvɔ:s] – v. part; cease or break association with

do [du:] – v. engage in: do research

dock [dɔk] – n. an enclosure in a court of law where the defendant sits during the trial

doctor [ˈdɔktə] – n. a licensed medical practitioner: I felt so bad I went to see my doctor

doctrine [ˈdɔktrin] – n. a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school

documentation [.dɔkjumenˈteiʃən] – n. program listings or technical manuals describing the operation and use of programs

dog [dɔg] – n. a dull unattractive unpleasant girl or woman: she’s a real dog

doll [dɔl] – n. a small replica of a person; used as a toy

dollar [ˈdɔlə] – n. the basic monetary unit in many countries; equal to 100 cents

dolphin [ˈdɔlfin] – n. large slender food and game fish widely distributed in warm seas (especially around Hawaii)

domain [dəˈmein] – n. a particular environment or walk of life

dome [dəum] – n. informal terms for a human head

domestic [dəˈmestik] – adj. of concern to or concerning the internal affairs of a nation: domestic issues such as tax rate and highway construction

dominance [ˈdɔminəns] – n. superior development of one side of the body

dominant [ˈdɔminənt] – adj. exercising influence or control: television plays a dominant role in molding public opinion

dominate [ˈdɔmineit] – v. be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance: Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood

domination [ˈdɔmiˈneiʃən] – n. power to dominate or defeat

donate [ˈdəuneit] – v. give to a charity or good cause: I donated blood to the Red Cross for the victims of the earthquake

donation [dəuˈneiʃən] – n. a voluntary gift (as of money or service or ideas) made to some worthwhile cause

donor [ˈdəunə] – n. person who makes a gift of property

door [dɔ:] – n. a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle: he knocked on the door

doorway [ˈdɔ:wei] – n. the entrance (the space in a wall) through which you enter or leave a room or building; the space that a door can close: he stuck his head in the doorway

dose [dəus] – n. a measured portion of medicine taken at any one time

dot [dɔt] – n. a very small circular shape: draw lines between the dots

double [ˈdʌbl] – adj. having more than one decidedly dissimilar aspects or qualities: a double (or dual) role for an actor

doubt [daut] – n. the state of being unsure of something

doubtful [ˈdautfəl] – adj. fraught with uncertainty or doubt: they were doubtful that the cord would hold

doubtless [ˈdautlis] – adv. without doubt; certainly

down [daun] – adj. being or moving lower in position or less in some value: lay face down

downstairs [.daunˈstɛəz] – adj. on or of lower floors of a building: the downstairs (or downstair) phone

dozen [ˈdʌzn] – n. the cardinal number that is the sum of eleven and one

draft [dræft] – n. a current of air (usually coming into a chimney or room or vehicle)

drag [dræg] – v. pull, as against a resistance: He dragged the big suitcase behind him

dragon [ˈdrægən] – n. a creature of Teutonic mythology; usually represented as breathing fire and having a reptilian body and sometimes wings

drain [drein] – n. emptying something accomplished by allowing liquid to run out of it

drainage [ˈdreinidʒ] – n. emptying something accomplished by allowing liquid to run out of it

drama [ˈdrɑ:mə] – n. an episode that is turbulent or highly emotional

dramatic [drəˈmætik] – adj. sensational in appearance or thrilling in effect: a dramatic sunset

dramatically [drəˈmætikəli] – adv. in a very impressive manner: your performance will improve dramatically

draw [drɔ:] – v. cause to move by pulling: draw a wagon

drawer [ˈdrɔ:ə] – n. a boxlike container in a piece of furniture; made so as to slide in and out

drawing [ˈdrɔ:iŋ] – n. a representation of forms or objects on a surface by means of lines: drawings of abstract forms

dreadful [ˈdredful] – adj. exceptionally bad or displeasing: dreadful manners

dream [dri:m] – n. a series of mental images and emotions occurring during sleep: I had a dream about you last night

dress [dres] – v. put on clothes: we had to dress quickly

drift [drift] – v. be in motion due to some air or water current: the boat drifted on the lake

drill [dril] – v. make a hole, especially with a pointed power or hand tool: don’t drill here, there’s a gas pipe

drink [driŋk] – n. a single serving of a beverage: I asked for a hot drink

drive [draiv] – v. operate or control a vehicle: drive a car or bus

driver [ˈdraivə] – n. the operator of a motor vehicle

driving  – n. the act of controlling and steering the movement of a vehicle or animal

drop [drɔp] – v. let fall to the ground: Don’t drop the dishes

drown [draun] – v. cover completely or make imperceptible: I was drowned in work

drug [drʌg] – n. a substance that is used as a medicine or narcotic

drum [drʌm] – n. a musical percussion instrument; usually consists of a hollow cylinder with a membrane stretched across each end

drunk [drʌŋk] – n. a chronic drinker

dry [drai] – adj. free from liquid or moisture; lacking natural or normal moisture or depleted of water; or no longer wet: dry land

dual [ˈdju:əl] – adj. consisting of or involving two parts or components usually in pairs: dual controls for pilot and copilot

duck [dʌk] – n. small wild or domesticated web-footed broad-billed swimming bird usually having a depressed body and short legs

due [dju:] – adj. owed and payable immediately or on demand: payment is due

duke [dju:k] – n. a British peer of the highest rank

dull [dʌl] – adj. lacking in liveliness or animation: he was so dull at parties

duly [ˈdju:li] – adv. at the proper time: she was duly apprised of the raise

dump [dʌmp] – v. throw away as refuse: No dumping in these woods!

duration [djuˈreiʃən] – n. the period of time during which something continues

dust [dʌst] – v. distribute loosely

duty [ˈdju:ti] – n. the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force: we must instill a sense of duty in our children

dwelling [ˈdweliŋ] – n. housing that someone is living in: he built a modest dwelling near the pond

dynamic [daiˈnæmik] – adj. characterized by action or forcefulness or force of personality: a dynamic market

eager [ˈi:gə] – n. a high wave (often dangerous) caused by tidal flow (as by colliding tidal currents or in a narrow estuary)

eagle [ˈi:gl] – n. any of various large keen-sighted diurnal birds of prey noted for their broad wings and strong soaring flight

ear [iə] – n. attention to what is said: he tried to get her ear

earl [ə:l] – n. a British peer ranking below a marquess and above a viscount

early [ˈə:li] – adj. at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time: early morning

earn [ə:n] – v. acquire or deserve by one’s efforts or actions

earth [ə:θ] – n. the 3rd planet from the sun; the planet we live on

ease [i:z] – n. freedom from difficulty or hardship or effort: he rose through the ranks with apparent ease

easily [ˈi:zili] – adv. without question: easily the best book she’s written

east [i:st] – n. the cardinal compass point that is at 90 degrees

eastern [ˈi:stən] – adj. lying toward or situated in the east: the eastern end of the island

easy [ˈi:zi] – adj. posing no difficulty; requiring little effort: an easy job

eat [i:t] – v. take in solid food: She was eating a banana

echo [ˈekəu] – n. (Greek mythology) a nymph who was spurned by Narcissus and pined away until only her voice remained

economic [.i:kəˈnɔmik] – adj. of or relating to an economy, the system of production and management of material wealth: economic growth

economically [i:kəˈnɔmikəli] – adv. with respect to the economic system: economically the country is worse off

economics [.i:kəˈnɔmiks] – n. the branch of social science that deals with the production and distribution and consumption of goods and services and their management

economist  – n. an expert in the science of economics

economy [iˈkɔnəmi] – n. the system of production and distribution and consumption

edge [edʒ] – n. the boundary of a surface

edit [ˈedit] – v. prepare for publication or presentation by correcting, revising, or adapting: she edited the letters of the politician so as to omit the most personal passages

edition [iˈdiʃən] – n. the form in which a text (especially a printed book) is published

editor [ˈeditə] – n. (computer science) a program designed to perform such editorial functions as rearrangement or modification or deletion of data

educate [ˈedjukeit] – v. create by training and teaching

education [.edjukeiʃn] – n. knowledge acquired by learning and instruction: it was clear that he had a very broad education

educational [.edju(:)ˈkeiʃənl] – adj. providing knowledge: an educational film

effect [iˈfekt] – n. a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon: the magnetic effect was greater when the rod was lengthwise

effective [iˈfektiv] – adj. producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect: an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch’s broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation

effectively [iˈfektivli] – adv. in actuality or reality or fact: she is effectively his wife

effectiveness [iˈfektivnis] – n. capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects

efficiency [iˈfiʃənsi] – n. the ratio of the output to the input of any system

efficient [iˈfiʃənt] – adj. being effective without wasting time or effort or expense: an efficient production manager

efficiently  – adv. with efficiency; in an efficient manner: he functions efficiently

effort [ˈefət] – n. earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something: made an effort to cover all the reading material

egg [eg] – n. oval reproductive body of a fowl (especially a hen) used as food

ego [ˈi:gəu] – n. an inflated feeling of pride in your superiority to others

either [ˈi:ðə] – adv. after a negative statement used as an intensive meaning something like `likewise’ or `also’: he isn’t stupid, but he isn’t exactly a genius either

elaborate [iˈlæbəreit] – v. add details, as to an account or idea; clarify the meaning of and discourse in a learned way, usually in writing: She elaborated on the main ideas in her dissertation

elbow [ˈelbəu] – n. hinge joint between the forearm and upper arm and the corresponding joint in the forelimb of a quadruped

elder [ˈeldə] – n. a person who is older than you are

elderly [ˈeldəli] – n. people who are old collectively

elect [iˈlekt] – v. choose: I elected to have my funds deposited automatically

election [iˈlekʃən] – n. the act of selecting someone or something; the exercise of deliberate choice: her election of medicine as a profession

electoral  – adj. relating to or composed of electors: electoral college

electorate [iˈlektərit] – n. the body of enfranchised citizens; those qualified to vote

electric [iˈlektrik] – adj. (of a situation) exceptionally tense: an atmosphere electric with suspicion

electrical [iˈlektrikəl] – adj. using or providing or producing or transmitting or operated by electricity: electrical appliances

electricity [.ilekˈtrisiti] – n. energy made available by the flow of electric charge through a conductor: they built a car that runs on electricity

electron [iˈlektrɔn] – n. an elementary particle with negative charge

electronic [ilekˈtrɔnik] – adj. of or concerned with electrons: electronic energy

electronics [ilekˈtrɔniks] – n. the branch of physics that deals with the emission and effects of electrons and with the use of electronic devices

elegant [ˈeligənt] – adj. refined and tasteful in appearance or behavior or style: elegant handwriting

element [ˈelimənt] – n. an abstract part of something: the grammatical elements of a sentence

elephant [ˈelifənt] – n. five-toed pachyderm

eligible [ˈelidʒəbl] – adj. qualified for or allowed or worthy of being chosen: eligible to run for office

eliminate [iˈlimineit] – v. terminate, end, or take out: Let’s eliminate the course on Akkadian hieroglyphics

elite [eiˈli:t] – n. a group or class of persons enjoying superior intellectual or social or economic status

elsewhere [ˈelsˈwɛə] – adv. in or to another place: he went elsewhere

embark [imˈbɑ:k] – v. go on board

embarrassment [imˈbærəsmənt] – n. the shame you feel when your inadequacy or guilt is made public

embassy [ˈembəsi] – n. a diplomatic building where ambassadors live or work

embody [imˈbɔdi] – v. represent in bodily form

embrace [imˈbreis] – n. the act of clasping another person in the arms (as in greeting or affection)

embryo [ˈembriəu] – n. (botany) a minute rudimentary plant contained within a seed or an archegonium

emerge [iˈmə:dʒ] – v. come out into view, as from concealment: Suddenly, the proprietor emerged from his office

emergence [iˈmə:dʒəns] – n. the gradual beginning or coming forth: figurines presage the emergence of sculpture in Greece

emergency [iˈmə:dʒənsi] – n. a sudden unforeseen crisis (usually involving danger) that requires immediate action: he never knew what to do in an emergency

emission [iˈmiʃən] – n. the act of emitting; causing to flow forth

emotion [iˈməuʃən] – n. any strong feeling

emotional [iˈməuʃənl] – adj. of more than usual emotion: his behavior was highly emotional

emperor [ˈempərə] – n. the male ruler of an empire

emphasis [ˈemfəsis] – n. special importance or significance: the red light gave the central figure increased emphasis

emphasise  – v. give extra weight to (a communication)

emphasize [ˈemfəsaiz] – v. to stress, single out as important: Dr. Jones emphasizes exercise in addition to a change in diet

empire [ˈempaiə] – n. a group of countries under a single authority: the British created a great empire

empirical [emˈpirikəl] – adj. derived from experiment and observation rather than theory: an empirical basis for an ethical theory

employ [imˈplɔi] – v. engage or hire for work: How many people has she employed?

employee [.emplɔiˈi:] – n. a worker who is hired to perform a job

employer [imˈplɔiə] – n. a person or firm that employs workers

employment [imˈplɔimənt] – n. the occupation for which you are paid: he is looking for employment

empty [ˈempti] – v. remove

enable [iˈneibl] – v. render capable or able for some task: This skill will enable you to find a job on Wall Street

enclose [inˈkləuz] – v. close in: darkness enclosed him

encompass [inˈkʌmpəs] – v. include in scope; include as part of something broader; have as one’s sphere or territory: This group encompasses a wide range of people from different backgrounds

encounter [inˈkauntə] – v. come together

encourage [inˈkʌridʒ] – v. contribute to the progress or growth of

encouragement [inˈkʌridʒmənt] – n. the expression of approval and support

encouraging  – adj. giving courage or confidence or hope: encouraging advances in medical research

end [end] – n. either extremity of something that has length: the end of the pier

ending [ˈendiŋ] – n. the point in time at which something ends: the ending of warranty period

endless [ˈendlis] – adj. tiresomely long; seemingly without end: endless debates

endorse [inˈdɔ:s] – v. be behind; approve of

endure [inˈdjuə] – v. put up with something or somebody unpleasant: The new secretary had to endure a lot of unprofessional remarks

enemy [ˈenimi] – n. an opposing military force: the enemy attacked at dawn

energy [ˈenədʒi] – n. forceful exertion: he plays tennis with great energy

enforce [inˈfɔ:s] – v. ensure observance of laws and rules

enforcement  – n. the act of enforcing; ensuring observance of or obedience to

engage [inˈgeidʒ] – v. carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in: They engaged in a discussion

engagement [inˈgeidʒmənt] – n. a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war: he lost his romantic ideas about war when he got into a real engagement

engine [ˈendʒin] – n. motor that converts thermal energy to mechanical work

engineer [.endʒiˈniə] – n. a person who uses scientific knowledge to solve practical problems

enhance [inˈhɑ:ns] – v. increase: This will enhance your enjoyment

enhanced  – adj. increased or intensified in value or beauty or quality: her enhanced beauty was the result of a good night’s sleep rather than makeup

enjoy [inˈdʒɔi] – v. have benefit from: enjoy privileges

enjoyable [inˈdʒɔiəb(ə)l] – adj. affording satisfaction or pleasure: the company was enjoyable

enjoyment [inˈdʒɔimənt] – n. the pleasure felt when having a good time

enormous [iˈnɔ:məs] – adj. extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree: an enormous boulder

enormously  – adv. extremely: he was enormously popular

enough [iˈnʌf] – adj. sufficient for the purpose: enough food

enquire [inˈkwaiər] – v. inquire about

enquiry [inˈkwaiəri] – n. an instance of questioning

ensure [inˈʃuə] – v. make certain of: This nest egg will ensure a nice retirement for us

entail [inˈteil] – v. have as a logical consequence

enter [ˈentə] – v. to come or go into: the boat entered an area of shallow marshes

enterprise [ˈentəpraiz] – n. a purposeful or industrious undertaking (especially one that requires effort or boldness): he had doubts about the whole enterprise

entertain [.entəˈtein] – v. take into consideration, have in view: He entertained the notion of moving to South America

entertainment [.entəˈteinmənt] – n. an activity that is diverting and that holds the attention

enthusiasm [inˈθju:ziæzəm] – n. a feeling of excitement

enthusiast  – n. a person having a strong liking for something

enthusiastic [in.θju:ziˈæstik] – adj. having or showing great excitement and interest: enthusiastic crowds filled the streets

entire [inˈtaiə] – adj. constituting the full quantity or extent; complete: an entire town devastated by an earthquake

entirely [inˈtaiəli] – adv. without any others being included or involved: was entirely to blame

entitle [inˈtaitl] – v. give the right to: The Freedom of Information Act entitles you to request your FBI file

entitlement  – n. right granted by law or contract (especially a right to benefits): entitlements make up the major part of the federal budget

entity [ˈentiti] – n. that which is perceived or known or inferred to have its own distinct existence (living or nonliving)

entrance [ˈentrəns,inˈtrɑ:ns] – n. something that provides access (to get in or get out): they waited at the entrance to the garden

entry [ˈentri] – n. an item inserted in a written record

envelope [ˈenviləup] – n. a flat (usually rectangular) container for a letter, thin package, etc.

environment [inˈvaiərənmənt] – n. the totality of surrounding conditions: he longed for the comfortable environment of his living room

environmental [in.vaiərənˈmentl] – adj. of or relating to the external conditions or surroundings: environmental factors

envisage [inˈvizidʒ] – v. form a mental image of something that is not present or that is not the case

enzyme [ˈenzaim] – n. any of several complex proteins that are produced by cells and act as catalysts in specific biochemical reactions

episode [ˈepisəud] – n. a happening that is distinctive in a series of related events

equal [ˈi:kwəl] – v. be identical or equivalent to: One dollar equals 1,000 rubles these days!

equality [i:ˈkwɔliti] – n. the quality of being the same in quantity or measure or value or status

equally [ˈi:kwəli] – adv. to the same degree (often followed by `as’): they were equally beautiful

equation [iˈkweiʃən] – n. a state of being essentially equal or equivalent; equally balanced

equilibrium [.i:kwiˈlibriəm] – n. a stable situation in which forces cancel one another

equip [iˈkwip] – v. provide with (something) usually for a specific purpose: The expedition was equipped with proper clothing, food, and other necessities

equipment [iˈkwipmənt] – n. an instrumentality needed for an undertaking or to perform a service

equity [ˈekwiti] – n. the difference between the market value of a property and the claims held against it

equivalent [iˈkwivələnt] – n. a person or thing equal to another in value or measure or force or effect or significance etc: send two dollars or the equivalent in stamps

era [ˈiərə] – n. a period marked by distinctive character or reckoned from a fixed point or event

erect [iˈrekt] – v. cause to rise up

erosion [iˈrəuʒən] – n. (geology) the mechanical process of wearing or grinding something down (as by particles washing over it)

error [ˈerə] – n. a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention: she was quick to point out my errors

escape [isˈkeip] – n. an inclination to retreat from unpleasant realities through diversion or fantasy: romantic novels were her escape from the stress of daily life

especially [isˈpeʃəli] – adv. to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common: an especially (or specially) cautious approach to the danger

essay [ˈesei,eˈsei] – n. an analytic or interpretive literary composition

essence [ˈesns] – n. the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience

essential [iˈsenʃəl] – adj. absolutely necessary; vitally necessary: essential tools and materials

essentially [iˈsenʃəli] – adv. in essence; at bottom or by one’s (or its) very nature: the argument was essentially a technical one

establish [iˈstæbliʃ] – v. set up or found

establishment [isˈtæbliʃmənt] – n. an organization founded and united for a specific purpose

estate [isˈteit] – n. everything you own; all of your assets (whether real property or personal property) and liabilities

estimate [ˈestimeit] – n. an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth: an estimate of what it would cost

eternal [iˈtə:nəl] – adj. continuing forever or indefinitely: eternal truths

ethical  – adj. conforming to accepted standards of social or professional behavior: an ethical lawyer

ethics [ˈeθiks] – n. motivation based on ideas of right and wrong

ethnic [ˈeθnik] – adj. denoting or deriving from or distinctive of the ways of living built up by a group of people: influenced by ethnic and cultural ties

evaluate [iˈvæljueit] – v. form a critical opinion of: How do you evaluate this grant proposal?

evaluation [i.væljuˈeiʃən] – n. act of ascertaining or fixing the value or worth of

even [ˈi:vən] – adj. divisible by two

evening [ˈi:vniŋ] – n. the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall): he enjoyed the evening light across the lake

event [iˈvent] – n. something that happens at a given place and time

eventual [iˈventjuəl] – adj. expected to follow in the indefinite future from causes already operating: hope of eventual (or ultimate) rescue

eventually [iˈventjuəli] – adv. after an unspecified period of time or an especially long delay

ever [ˈevə] – adv. at any time: did you ever smoke?

everyday [ˈevriˈdei] – adj. found in the ordinary course of events: a placid everyday scene

everywhere [ˈevriwɛə] – adv. to or in any or all places: You find fast food stores everywhere

evidence [ˈevidəns] – n. your basis for belief or disbelief; knowledge on which to base belief: the evidence that smoking causes lung cancer is very compelling

evident [ˈevidənt] – adj. clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment: evident hostility

evidently [ˈevidəntli] – adv. unmistakably (`plain’ is often used informally for `plainly’): she was in bed and evidently in great pain

evil [ˈi:vl] – n. morally objectionable behavior

evoke [iˈvəuk] – v. call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses): evoke sympathy

evolution [.i:vəˈlu:ʃən] – n. a process in which something passes by degrees to a different stage (especially a more advanced or mature stage): the evolution of Greek civilization

evolutionary [.i:vəˈlu:ʃənəri] – adj. of or relating to or produced by evolution: evolutionary biology

evolve [iˈvɔlv] – v. work out

exact [igˈzækt] – v. claim as due or just

exactly [igˈzæktli] – adv. just as it should be

exaggerate [igˈzædʒəreit] – v. to enlarge beyond bounds or the truth: tended to romanticize and exaggerate this `gracious Old South’ imagery

exam [igˈzæm] – n. a set of questions or exercises evaluating skill or knowledge

examination [ig.zæmiˈneiʃən] – n. a set of questions or exercises evaluating skill or knowledge

examine [igˈzæmin] – v. consider in detail and subject to an analysis in order to discover essential features or meaning

example [igˈzɑ:mpl] – n. an item of information that is typical of a class or group: this patient provides a typical example of the syndrome

excavation [.ekskəˈveiʃən] – n. the act of digging: there’s an interesting excavation going on near Princeton

exceed [ikˈsi:d] – v. be greater in scope or size than some standard: Their loyalty exceeds their national bonds

excellent [ˈeksələnt] – adj. very good;of the highest quality: made an excellent speech

exception [ikˈsepʃən] – n. a deliberate act of omission: with the exception of the children, everyone was told the news

exceptional [ikˈsepʃənl] – adj. far beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree: an exceptional memory

exceptionally [ikˈsepʃənəli] – adv. to an exceptional degree: it worked exceptionally well

excess [ikˈses] – n. a quantity much larger than is needed

excessive [ikˈsesiv] – adj. beyond normal limits: excessive charges

exchange [iksˈtʃeindʒ] – n. chemical process in which one atom or ion or group changes places with another

excite [ikˈsait] – v. arouse or elicit a feeling

excited [ikˈsaitid] – adj. (of persons) excessively affected by emotion

excitement [ikˈsaitmənt] – n. the feeling of lively and cheerful joy: he could hardly conceal his excitement when she agreed

exciting [ikˈsaitiŋ] – adj. stimulating interest and discussion: an exciting novel

exclaim [iksˈkleim] – v. utter aloud; often with surprise, horror, or joy: `I won!’ he exclaimed

exclude [iksˈklu:d] – v. prevent from being included or considered or accepted: The bad results were excluded from the report

exclusion [iksˈklu:ʒən] – n. the state of being excommunicated

exclusive [iksˈklu:siv] – adj. not divided or shared with others: they have exclusive use of the machine

exclusively [ikˈsklu:sivli] – adv. without any others being included or involved: he works for Mr. Smith exclusively

excuse [iksˈkju:z] – v. grant exemption or release to: Please excuse me from this class

execute [ˈeksikju:t] – v. kill as a means of socially sanctioned punishment: In some states, criminals are executed

execution [.eksiˈkju:ʃən] – n. putting a condemned person to death

executive [igˈzekjutiv] – n. a person responsible for the administration of a business

exemption [igˈzempʃən] – n. immunity from an obligation or duty

exercise [ˈeksəsaiz] – n. the act of using

exert [igˈzə:t] – v. put to use: exert one’s power or influence

exhaust [igˈzɔ:st] – v. wear out completely: This kind of work exhausts me

exhibit [igˈzibit] – v. show an attribute, property, knowledge, or skill: he exhibits a great talent

exhibition [.eksiˈbiʃən] – n. a collection of things (goods or works of art etc.) for public display

exile [ˈeksail] – n. a person who is voluntarily absent from home or country

exist [igˈzist] – v. support oneself: he could barely exist on such a low wage

existence [igˈzistəns] – n. everything that exists anywhere: the biggest tree in existence

existing [igˈzistiŋ] – adj. having existence or being or actuality: much of the beluga caviar existing in the world is found in the Soviet Union and Iran

exit [ˈeksit] – n. an opening that permits escape or release

exotic [egˈzɔtik] – adj. being or from or characteristic of another place or part of the world: exotic plants in a greenhouse

expand [iksˈpænd] – v. extend in one or more directions: The dough expands

expansion [iksˈpænʃən] – n. the act of increasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope

expect [iksˈpekt] – v. regard something as probable or likely: The meteorologists are expecting rain for tomorrow

expectation [.ekspekˈteiʃən] – n. belief about (or mental picture of) the future

expected  – adj. considered likely or probable to happen or arrive: prepared for the expected attack

expedition [.ekspiˈdiʃən] – n. a military campaign designed to achieve a specific objective in a foreign country

expel [iksˈpel] – v. force to leave or move out: He was expelled from his native country

expenditure [iksˈpenditʃə] – n. money paid out; an amount spent

expense [iksˈpens] – n. a detriment or sacrifice: at the expense of

expensive [iksˈpensiv] – adj. high in price or charging high prices: expensive clothes

experience [iksˈpiəriəns] – v. go or live through

experienced [ikˈspiəriənst] – adj. having experience; having knowledge or skill from observation or participation

experiment [iksˈperimənt] – n. the act of conducting a controlled test or investigation

experimental [iks.periˈmentl] – adj. relying on observation or experiment: experimental results that supported the hypothesis

expert [ˈekspə:t] – adj. having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude: an expert job

expertise [.ekspə:ˈti:z] – n. skillfulness by virtue of possessing special knowledge

explain [iksˈplein] – v. make plain and comprehensible: He explained the laws of physics to his students

explanation [.ekspləˈneiʃən] – n. a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.: the explanation was very simple

explicit [iksˈplisit] – adj. precisely and clearly expressed or readily observable; leaving nothing to implication: explicit instructions

explicitly [ikˈsplisitli] – adv. in an explicit manner: in his foreword Professor Clark puts it explicitly

explode [iksˈpləud] – v. cause to burst with a violent release of energy: We exploded the nuclear bomb

exploitation [.eksplɔiˈteiʃən] – n. the act of making some area of land or water more profitable or productive or useful: the exploitation of copper deposits

exploration [.eksplɔ:ˈreiʃən] – n. to travel for the purpose of discovery

explore [iksˈplɔ:] – v. inquire into

explosion [iksˈpləuʒən] – n. a violent release of energy caused by a chemical or nuclear reaction

export [ˈekspɔ:t,eksˈpɔ:t] – v. sell or transfer abroad: we export less than we import and have a negative trade balance

expose [ikˈspəuz] – v. to show, make visible or apparent

exposure [iksˈpəuʒə] – n. vulnerability to the elements; to the action of heat or cold or wind or rain: exposure to the weather

express [iksˈpres] – v. articulate; either verbally or with a cry, shout, or noise: She expressed her anger

expression [iksˈpreʃən] – n. the feelings expressed on a person’s face: a sad expression

extend [iksˈtend] – v. span an interval of distance, space or time: The war extended over five years

extension [iksˈtenʃən] – n. a mutually agreed delay in the date set for the completion of a job or payment of a debt: they applied for an extension of the loan

extensive [iksˈtensiv] – adj. broad in scope or content

extensively [ikˈstensivli] – adv. in a widespread way: oxidation ponds are extensively used for sewage treatment in the Midwest

extent [iksˈtent] – n. the distance or area or volume over which something extends: the vast extent of the desert

external [eksˈtə:nl] – adj. happening or arising or located outside or beyond some limits or especially surface: the external auditory canal

extra [ˈekstrə] – n. a minor actor in crowd scenes

extract [ˈekstrækt,iksˈtrækt] – v. remove, usually with some force or effort; also used in an abstract sense: extract a bad tooth

extraordinary [iksˈtrɔ:dnri] – adj. beyond what is ordinary or usual; highly unusual or exceptional or remarkable: extraordinary authority

extreme [iksˈtri:m] – adj. of the greatest possible degree or extent or intensity: extreme cold

extremely [iksˈtri:mli] – adv. to a high degree or extent; favorably or with much respect: extremely interesting

eye [ai] – n. the organ of sight

eyebrow [ˈaibrau] – n. the arch of hair above each eye

fabric [ˈfæbrik] – n. artifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers: the fabric in the curtains was light and semitransparent

facade [fəˈsɑ:d] – n. a showy misrepresentation intended to conceal something unpleasant

face [feis] – n. the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear: he washed his face

facilitate [fəˈsiliteit] – v. make easier: you could facilitate the process by sharing your knowledge

facility [fəˈsiliti] – n. a building or place that provides a particular service or is used for a particular industry: the assembly plant is an enormous facility

fact [fækt] – n. a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred: first you must collect all the facts of the case

faction [ˈfækʃən] – n. a clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue

factor [ˈfæktə] – n. anything that contributes causally to a result: a number of factors determined the outcome

factory [ˈfæktəri] – n. a plant consisting of one or more buildings with facilities for manufacturing

faculty [ˈfækəlti] – n. one of the inherent cognitive or perceptual powers of the mind

fade [feid] – v. become less clearly visible or distinguishable; disappear gradually or seemingly: The scene begins to fade

fail [feil] – v. be unsuccessful: Where do today’s public schools fail?

failure [ˈfeiljə] – n. an event that does not accomplish its intended purpose: the surprise party was a complete failure

faint [feint] – adj. deficient in magnitude; barely perceptible; lacking clarity or brightness or loudness etc: a faint outline

fair [fɛə] – adj. free from favoritism or self-interest or bias or deception; conforming with established standards or rules: a fair referee

fairly [ˈfɛəli] – adv. to a moderately sufficient extent or degree: he is fairly clever with computers

fairy [ˈfɛəri] – n. a small being, human in form, playful and having magical powers

faith [feiθ] – n. a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny: he lost his faith but not his morality

faithful [ˈfeiθfəl] – adj. steadfast in affection or allegiance: years of faithful service

fall [fɔ:l] – v. move downward and lower, but not necessarily all the way: The barometer is falling

false  [fɔ:ls] – adj. not in accordance with the fact or reality or actuality: gave false testimony under oath

fame [feim] – n. the state or quality of being widely honored and acclaimed

familiar [fəˈmiljə] – adj. well known or easily recognized: a familiar figure

family [ˈfæmili] – n. a social unit living together: he moved his family to Virginia

famous [ˈfeiməs] – adj. widely known and esteemed: a famous actor

fan [fæn] – v. strike out (a batter), (of a pitcher)

fancy [ˈfænsi] – n. something many people believe that is false

fantastic [fænˈtæstik] – adj. ludicrously odd: fantastic Halloween costumes

fantasy [ˈfæntəsi] – n. imagination unrestricted by reality: a schoolgirl fantasy

far [fɑ:] – adv. to a considerable degree; very much: a far far better thing that I do

fare [fɛə] – n. an agenda of things to do

farm [fɑ:m] – v. collect fees or profits

farmer [ˈfɑ:mə] – n. United States civil rights leader who in 1942 founded the Congress of Racial Equality (born in 1920)

farming [ˈfɑ:miŋ] – n. the practice of cultivating the land or raising stock

fascinate [ˈfæsineit] – v. cause to be interested or curious

fascinating [ˈfæsineitiŋ] – adj. capable of arousing and holding the attention: a fascinating story

fashion [ˈfæʃən] – n. how something is done or how it happens: in an abrasive fashion

fashionable [ˈfæʃənəbl] – adj. having elegance or taste or refinement in manners or dress

fast [fɑ:st] – adj. acting or moving or capable of acting or moving quickly: fast film

fat [fæt] – adj. having an (over)abundance of flesh: he hadn’t remembered how fat she was

fatal [ˈfeitl] – adj. bringing death

fate [feit] – n. an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future

father [ˈfɑ:ðə] – n. the founder of a family: keep the faith of our forefathers

fault [fɔ:lt] – n. a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention: I could understand his English in spite of his grammatical faults

favour  – n. an inclination to approve

favourable  – adj. encouraging or approving or pleasing

favourite  – n. a competitor thought likely to win

fax [fæks] – n. duplicator that transmits the copy by wire or radio

fear [fiə] – v. be afraid or scared of; be frightened of: I fear the winters in Moscow

feasible [ˈfi:zəbl] – adj. capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are

feast [fi:st] – n. a ceremonial dinner party for many people

feather [ˈfeðə] – v. join tongue and groove, in carpentry

feature [fi:tʃə] – n. a prominent attribute or aspect of something: the map showed roads and other features

federal [ˈfedərəl] – adj. national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units: federal courts

federation [.fedəˈreiʃən] – n. an organization formed by merging several groups or parties

fee [fi:] – n. an interest in land capable of being inherited

feed [fi:d] – v. provide as food

feedback [ˈfi:dbæk] – n. the process in which part of the output of a system is returned to its input in order to regulate its further output

feel [fi:l] – v. undergo an emotional sensation or be in a particular state of mind

fellow [ˈfeləu] – n. a boy or man: there’s a fellow at the door

female [ˈfi:meil] – adj. being the sex (of plant or animal) that produces fertilizable gametes (ova) from which offspring develop: a female heir

feminine [ˈfeminin] – adj. associated with women and not with men: feminine intuition

feminist [ˈfeminist] – n. a supporter of feminism

fence [fens] – v. receive stolen goods

ferry [ˈferi] – v. transport from one place to another

fertility [fə:ˈtiliti] – n. the ratio of live births in an area to the population of that area; expressed per 1000 population per year

festival [ˈfestəvəl] – n. a day or period of time set aside for feasting and celebration

fetch [fetʃ] – v. go or come after and bring or take back: The dog fetched the hat

fever [ˈfi:və] – n. a rise in the temperature of the body; frequently a symptom of infection

few [fju:] – n. a small elite group: it was designed for the discriminating few

fibre  – n. a slender and greatly elongated substance capable of being spun into yarn

fiction [ˈfikʃən] – n. a literary work based on the imagination and not necessarily on fact

field [fi:ld] – n. a piece of land cleared of trees and usually enclosed: he planted a field of wheat

fierce [fiəs] – adj. marked by extreme and violent energy: fierce fighting

fiercely  – adv. in an emotionally fierce manner: she was fiercely proud of her children

fig [fig] – n. a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

fight [fait] – n. a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war

fighter [ˈfaitə] – n. a high-speed military or naval airplane designed to destroy enemy aircraft in the air

figure [ˈfigə] – n. a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

file [fail] – v. record in a public office or in a court of law: file for divorce

fill [fil] – v. make full, also in a metaphorical sense: fill a container

film [film] – n. a form of entertainment that enacts a story by sound and a sequence of images giving the illusion of continuous movement: the film was shot on location

filter [ˈfiltə] – v. pass through

final [ˈfainl] – adj. occurring at or forming an end or termination: the final chapter

finally [ˈfainəli] – adv. after an unspecified period of time or an especially long delay

finance [faiˈnæns] – n. the commercial activity of providing funds and capital

financial [faiˈnænʃəl] – adj. involving financial matters

financially  – adv. from a financial point of view: this was financially unattractive

find [faind] – v. come upon, as if by accident; meet with: We find this idea in Plato

fine [fain] – adj. being satisfactory or in satisfactory condition: everything’s fine

finger [ˈfiŋgə] – v. examine by touch: The customer fingered the sweater

finish [ˈfiniʃ] – n. a decorative texture or appearance of a surface (or the substance that gives it that appearance): the boat had a metallic finish

fire [ˈfaiə] – n. the event of something burning (often destructive): they lost everything in the fire

firm [fə:m] – adj. not soft or yielding to pressure: a firm mattress

firmly [ˈfɜ:mli] – adv. with resolute determination: we firmly believed it

first [fə:st] – n. the time at which something is supposed to begin

firstly  – adv. before anything else

fiscal [ˈfiskəl] – adj. involving financial matters: fiscal responsibility

fish [fiʃ] – n. any of various mostly cold-blooded aquatic vertebrates usually having scales and breathing through gills: the shark is a large fish

fisherman [ˈfiʃəmən] – n. someone whose occupation is catching fish

fishing [ˈfiʃiŋ] – n. the occupation of catching fish for a living

fist [fist] – n. a hand with the fingers clenched in the palm (as for hitting)

fit [fit] – v. be agreeable or acceptable to

fitness [ˈfitnis] – n. the quality of being suitable: they had to prove their fitness for the position

fitting [ˈfitiŋ] – n. making or becoming suitable; adjusting to circumstances

fix [fiks] – v. restore by replacing a part or putting together what is torn or broken

fixture [ˈfikstʃə] – n. an object firmly fixed in place (especially in a household)

flag [flæg] – n. emblem usually consisting of a rectangular piece of cloth of distinctive design

flame [fleim] – v. shine with a sudden light

flash [flæʃ] – n. a sudden intense burst of radiant energy

flat [flæt] – adj. having a surface without slope, tilt in which no part is higher or lower than another: a flat desk

flavour  – n. the general atmosphere of a place or situation and the effect that it has on people

flee [fli:] – v. run away quickly

fleet [fli:t] – n. group of aircraft operating together under the same ownership

flesh [fleʃ] – n. the soft tissue of the body of a vertebrate: mainly muscle tissue and fat

flexibility [.fleksəˈbiliti] – n. the quality of being adaptable or variable: he enjoyed the flexibility of his working arrangement

flexible [ˈfleksəbl] – adj. capable of being changed: flexible schedules

flick [flik] – v. flash intermittently: The lights flicked on and off

flight [flait] – n. an instance of traveling by air

fling [fliŋ] – v. throw with force or recklessness: fling the frisbee

float [fləut] – v. be in motion due to some air or water current

flock [flɔk] – n. a church congregation guided by a pastor

flood [flʌd] – n. an overwhelming number or amount: a flood of requests

floor [flɔ:] – n. the inside lower horizontal surface (as of a room, hallway, tent, or other structure): they needed rugs to cover the bare floors

flour [flauə] – n. fine powdery foodstuff obtained by grinding and sifting the meal of a cereal grain

flourish [ˈflʌriʃ] – n. a showy gesture: she entered with a great flourish

flow [fləu] – n. the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)

flower [ˈflauə] – n. a plant cultivated for its blooms or blossoms

fluctuation [.flʌktjuˈeiʃən] – n. a wave motion: the fluctuations of the sea

fluid [ˈflu:id] – adj. subject to change; variable: a fluid situation fraught with uncertainty

flush [flʌʃ] – n. the period of greatest prosperity or productivity

fly [flai] – v. travel through the air; be airborne: Man cannot fly

focus [ˈfəukəs] – n. the concentration of attention or energy on something: the focus of activity shifted to molecular biology

fog [fɔg] – n. droplets of water vapor suspended in the air near the ground

fold [fəuld] – n. a group of people who adhere to a common faith and habitually attend a given church

folk [fəuk] – n. people in general (often used in the plural): they’re just country folk

follow [ˈfɔləu] – v. to travel behind, go after, come after: The ducklings followed their mother around the pond

follower [ˈfɔləuə] – n. a person who accepts the leadership of another

following [ˈfɔləuiŋ] – adj. about to be mentioned or specified: the following items

fond [fɔnd] – adj. having or displaying warmth or affection: a fond embrace

food [fu:d] – n. any substance that can be metabolized by an animal to give energy and build tissue

fool [fu:l] – v. spend frivolously and unwisely

foolish [ˈfu:liʃ] – adj. devoid of good sense or judgment: foolish remarks

foot [fut] – n. the part of the leg of a human being below the ankle joint: armored from head to foot

football [ˈfutbɔ:l] – n. any of various games played with a ball (round or oval) in which two teams try to kick or carry or propel the ball into each other’s goal

footstep [ˈfutstep] – n. the sound of a step of someone walking: he heard footsteps on the porch

forbid [fəˈbid] – v. command against: I forbid you to call me late at night

force [fɔ:s] – n. a powerful effect or influence: the force of his eloquence easily persuaded them

forecast [ˈfɔ:kɑ:st] – v. predict in advance

forehead [ˈfɔ:hed] – n. the part of the face above the eyes

foreign [ˈfɔrin] – adj. of concern to or concerning the affairs of other nations (other than your own): foreign trade

foreigner [ˈfɔ:rinə] – n. someone who is excluded from or is not a member of a group

forest [ˈfɔrist] – n. the trees and other plants in a large densely wooded area

forestry [ˈfɔristri] – n. the science of planting and caring for forests and the management of growing timber

forever [fəˈrevə] – adv. for a limitless time: no one can live forever

forge [fɔ:dʒ] – v. create by hammering: forge a pair of tongues

forget [fəˈget] – v. dismiss from the mind; stop remembering

forgive [fəˈgiv] – v. absolve from payment: I forgive you your debt

fork [fɔ:k] – n. the act of branching out or dividing into branches

form [fɔ:m] – n. the phonological or orthographic sound or appearance of a word that can be used to describe or identify something: the inflected forms of a word can be represented by a stem and a list of inflections to be attached

formal [ˈfɔ:məl] – adj. characteristic of or befitting a person in authority: formal duties

formally  – adv. with official authorization: the club will be formally recognized

format [ˈfɔ:mæt] – v. determine the arrangement of (data) for storage and display (in computer science)

formation [fɔ:ˈmeiʃən] – n. an arrangement of people or things acting as a unit: a defensive formation

formerly [ˈfɔ:məli] – adv. at a previous time

formidable [ˈfɔ:midəbl] – adj. extremely impressive in strength or excellence: a formidable opponent

formula [ˈfɔ:mjulə] – n. a group of symbols that make a mathematical statement

formulate [ˈfɔ:mjuleit] – v. elaborate, as of theories and hypotheses

formulation [.fɔ:mjuˈleiʃən] – n. inventing or contriving an idea or explanation and formulating it mentally

forth [fɔ:θ] – adv. forward in time or order or degree: from that time forth

forthcoming [.fɔ:θˈkʌmiŋ] – adj. at ease in talking to others

fortnight [ˈfɔ:tnait] – n. a period of fourteen consecutive days: most major tennis tournaments last a fortnight

fortunate [ˈfɔ:tʃənit] – adj. supremely favored

fortunately [ˈfɔ:tʃənətli] – adv. by good fortune: fortunately the weather was good

fortune [ˈfɔ:tʃən] – n. an unknown and unpredictable phenomenon that causes an event to result one way rather than another

forum [ˈfɔ:rəm] – n. a public facility to meet for open discussion

forward [ˈfɔ:wəd] – adv. at or to or toward the front: he faced forward

forwards  – adv. at or to or toward the front

fossil [ˈfɔsl] – n. someone whose style is out of fashion

foster [ˈfɔstə] – v. promote the growth of

found [faund] – v. set up or lay the groundwork for

foundation [faunˈdeiʃən] – n. the basis on which something is grounded: there is little foundation for his objections

founder [ˈfaundə] – v. fail utterly; collapse: The project foundered

fountain [ˈfauntin] – n. a structure from which an artificially produced jet of water arises

fox [fɔks] – n. alert carnivorous mammal with pointed muzzle and ears and a bushy tail; most are predators that do not hunt in packs

fraction [ˈfrækʃən] – n. a small part or item forming a piece of a whole

fragile [ˈfrædʒail] – adj. easily broken or damaged or destroyed: fragile porcelain plates

fragment [ˈfrægmənt] – n. a piece broken off or cut off of something else: a fragment of rock

frame [freim] – n. a single one of a series of still transparent pictures forming a cinema, television or video film

framework [ˈfreimwə:k] – n. a hypothetical description of a complex entity or process

franchise [ˈfræn.tʃaiz] – n. an authorization to sell a company’s goods or services in a particular place

frankly [ˈfræŋkli] – adv. (used as intensives reflecting the speaker’s attitude) it is sincerely the case that: frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn

fraud [frɔ:d] – n. intentional deception resulting in injury to another person

free [fri:] – v. relieve from

freedom [ˈfri:dəm] – n. immunity from an obligation or duty

freely [ˈfri:li] – adv. in a free manner: the painting featured freely brushed strokes

freeze [fri:z] – v. stop moving or become immobilized

freight [freit] – n. goods carried by a large vehicle

frequency [ˈfri:kwənsi] – n. the number of occurrences within a given time period: the frequency of modulation was 40 cycles per second

frequent [ˈfri:kwənt] – v. do one’s shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of

frequently [ˈfri:kwəntli] – adv. many times at short intervals

fresh [freʃ] – adj. recently made, produced, or harvested: fresh bread

fridge [fridʒ] – n. a refrigerator in which the coolant is pumped around by an electric motor

friend [frend] – n. a person you know well and regard with affection and trust: he was my best friend at the university

friendly [ˈfrendli] – adj. inclined to help or support; not antagonistic or hostile: a government friendly to our interests

friendship [ˈfrendʃip] – n. the state of being friends (or friendly)

frighten [ˈfraitən] – v. cause fear in: The stranger who hangs around the building frightens me

fringe [frindʒ] – n. the outside boundary or surface of something

frog [frɔg] – n. any of various tailless stout-bodied amphibians with long hind limbs for leaping; semiaquatic and terrestrial species

front [frʌnt] – n. the side that is forward or prominent

frontier [ˈfrʌntjə] – n. a wilderness at the edge of a settled area of a country: the individualism of the frontier in Andrew Jackson’s day

frown [fraun] – n. a facial expression of dislike or displeasure

frozen  – adj. turned into ice; affected by freezing or by long and severe cold: the frozen North

fruit [fru:t] – n. the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant

frustrate [frʌsˈtreit] – v. hinder or prevent (the efforts, plans, or desires) of: What ultimately frustrated every challenger was Ruth’s amazing September surge

frustration [frʌsˈtreiʃən] – n. the feeling that accompanies an experience of being thwarted in attaining your goals

fuck [fʌk] – n. slang for sexual intercourse

fuel [ˈfjuəl] – v. provide with a combustible substance that provides energy: fuel aircraft, ships, and cars

fulfil  – v. put in effect

full [ful] – adj. containing as much or as many as is possible or normal: a full glass

full-time  – adj. for the entire time appropriate to an activity: a full-time job

fully [ˈfuli] – adv. sufficiently; more than adequately: the evidence amply (or fully) confirms our suspicions

fun [fʌn] – n. activities that are enjoyable or amusing: I do it for the fun of it

function [ˈfʌŋkʃən] – n. what something is used for: the function of an auger is to bore holes

functional [ˈfʌŋkʃənl] – adj. involving or affecting function rather than physiology: functional deafness

fund [fʌnd] – v. convert (short-term floating debt) into long-term debt that bears fixed interest and is represented by bonds

fundamental [.fʌndəˈmentl] – adj. serving as an essential component: an example that was fundamental to the argument

fundamentally  – adv. in essence; at bottom or by one’s (or its) very nature

funding [ˈfʌndiŋ] – n. financial resources provided to make some project possible

funeral [ˈfju:nərəl] – n. a ceremony at which a dead person is buried or cremated: hundreds of people attended his funeral

funny [ˈfʌni] – adj. arousing or provoking laughter: funny stories that made everybody laugh

fur [fə:] – n. the dressed hairy coat of a mammal

furious [ˈfjuəriəs] – adj. marked by extreme and violent energy: a furious battle

furnish [ˈfə:niʃ] – v. give something useful or necessary to

furniture [ˈfə:nitʃə] – n. furnishings that make a room or other area ready for occupancy: they had too much furniture for the small apartment

further [ˈfə:ðə] – v. promote the growth of

furthermore [ˈfə:ðəˈmɔ:] – adv. in addition: computer chess games are getting cheaper all the time; furthermore, their quality is improving

fury [ˈfjuəri] – n. a feeling of intense anger: hell hath no fury like a woman scorned

fusion [ˈfju:ʒən] – n. an occurrence that involves the production of a union

fuss [fʌs] – n. an excited state of agitation

future [ˈfju:tʃə] – adj. yet to be or coming: some future historian will evaluate him

gain [gein] – v. obtain

galaxy [ˈgæləksi] – n. a splendid assemblage (especially of famous people)

gall [gɔ:l] – n. an open sore on the back of a horse caused by ill-fitting or badly adjusted saddle

gallery [ˈgæləri] – n. spectators at a golf or tennis match

gallon [ˈgælən] – n. United States liquid unit equal to 4 quarts or 3.785 liters

game [geim] – n. a contest with rules to determine a winner: you need four people to play this game

gang [gæŋ] – n. an association of criminals: police tried to break up the gang

gap [gæp] – n. a conspicuous disparity or difference as between two figures: gap between income and outgo

garage [ˈgærɑ:ʒ] – n. an outbuilding (or part of a building) for housing automobiles

garden [ˈgɑ:dn] – n. a plot of ground where plants are cultivated

gardener [ˈgɑ:dnə] – n. someone employed to work in a garden

garlic [ˈgɑ:lik] – n. bulbous herb of southern Europe widely naturalized; bulb breaks up into separate strong-flavored cloves

garment [ˈgɑ:mənt] – n. an article of clothing: garments of the finest silk

gas [gæs] – n. a volatile flammable mixture of hydrocarbons (hexane and heptane and octane etc.) derived from petroleum; used mainly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines

gasp [gɑ:sp] – n. a short labored intake of breath with the mouth open: she gave a gasp and fainted

gastric [ˈgæstrik] – adj. relating to or involving the stomach: gastric ulcer

gate [geit] – n. a movable barrier in a fence or wall

gather [ˈgæðə] – v. assemble or get together: gather some stones

gay [gei] – adj. bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer: a gay sunny room

gaze [geiz] – n. a long fixed look: he fixed his paternal gaze on me

gear [giə] – n. a toothed wheel that engages another toothed mechanism in order to change the speed or direction of transmitted motion

gender [ˈdʒendə] – n. the properties that distinguish organisms on the basis of their reproductive roles

gene [dʒi:n] – n. (genetics) a segment of DNA that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding DNA as well as introns between the exons; it is considered a unit of heredity: genes were formerly called factors

general [ˈdʒenərəl] – adj. applying to all or most members of a category or group: the general public

generally [ˈdʒenərəli] – adv. usually; as a rule

generate [ˈdʒenəreit] – v. bring into existence: The new manager generated a lot of problems

generation [.dʒenəˈreiʃən] – n. all the people living at the same time or of approximately the same age

generous [ˈdʒenərəs] – adj. willing to give and share unstintingly: a generous donation

genetic [dʒiˈnetik] – adj. occurring among members of a family usually by heredity: genetically transmitted features

genius [ˈdʒi:njəs] – n. someone who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality: Mozart was a child genius

gentle [ˈdʒentl] – adj. soft and mild; not harsh or stern or severe: a gentle reprimand

gentleman [ˈdʒentlmən] – n. a man of refinement

gently [ˈdʒentli] – adv. in a gradual manner: a gently sloping terrain

genuine [ˈdʒenjuin] – adj. not fake or counterfeit: a genuine Picasso

genuinely  – adv. in accordance with truth or fact or reality: a genuinely open society

geographical  – adj. determined by geography

geography [dʒiˈɔgrəfi] – n. study of the earth’s surface; includes people’s responses to topography and climate and soil and vegetation

geological  – adj. of or relating to or based on geology: geological formations

gesture [ˈdʒestʃə] – n. motion of hands or body to emphasize or help to express a thought or feeling

get [get] – v. come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

ghost [gəust] – n. a mental representation of some haunting experience: he looked like he had seen a ghost

giant [ˈdʒaiənt] – n. any creature of exceptional size

gift [gift] – n. something acquired without compensation

gig [gig] – n. long and light rowing boat; especially for racing

girl [gə:l] – n. a young woman

girlfriend  – n. any female friend: Mary and her girlfriend organized the party

give [giv] – v. cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

given [ˈgiv(ə)n] – adj. acknowledged as a supposition: given the engine’s condition, it is a wonder that it started

glad [glæd] – adj. showing or causing joy and pleasure; especially made happy: glad you are here

glance [glɑ:ns] – v. hit at an angle

glare [glɛə] – n. a light within the field of vision that is brighter than the brightness to which the eyes are adapted: a glare of sunlight

glass [glɑ:s] – n. a brittle transparent solid with irregular atomic structure

glimpse [glimps] – n. a quick look

global [ˈgləubəl] – adj. involving the entire earth; not limited or provincial in scope: global war

gloom [glu:m] – n. a state of partial or total darkness: he struck a match to dispel the gloom

glorious [ˈglɔ:riəs] – adj. characterized by grandeur: a glorious work of art

glory [ˈglɔ:ri] – n. a state of high honor: he valued glory above life itself

glove [glʌv] – n. the handwear used by fielders in playing baseball

glow [gləu] – n. an alert and refreshed state

go [gəu] – v. follow a procedure or take a course: We should go farther in this matter

goal [gəul] – n. the place designated as the end (as of a race or journey)

goalkeeper  – n. the soccer or hockey player assigned to protect the goal

goat [gəut] – n. any of numerous agile ruminants related to sheep but having a beard and straight horns

gold [gəuld] – n. a deep yellow color: he admired the gold of her hair

golden [ˈgəuldən] – adj. marked by peace and prosperity: a golden era

golf [gɔlf] – n. a game played on a large open course with 9 or 18 holes; the object is use as few strokes as possible in playing all the holes

good [gud] – adj. having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified: good news from the hospital

goodness [ˈgudnis] – n. that which is pleasing or valuable or useful

gospel [ˈgɔspəl] – n. the four books in the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) that tell the story of Christ’s life and teachings

gossip [ˈgɔsip] – n. light informal conversation for social occasions

gothic  – adj. characteristic of the style of type commonly used for printing German

govern [ˈgʌvən] – v. bring into conformity with rules or principles or usage; impose regulations

government [ˈgʌvənmənt] – n. the act of governing; exercising authority: he had considerable experience of government

governor [ˈgʌvənə] – n. a control that maintains a steady speed in a machine (as by controlling the supply of fuel)

gown [gaun] – n. a woman’s dress, usually with a close-fitting bodice and a long flared skirt, often worn on formal occasions

grab [græb] – v. take hold of so as to seize or restrain or stop the motion of

grace [greis] – n. (Christian theology) a state of sanctification by God; the state of one who is under such divine influence: the conception of grace developed alongside the conception of sin

grade [greid] – n. a body of students who are taught together

gradual [ˈgrædjuəl] – adj. proceeding in small stages: a gradual increase in prices

gradually [ˈgrædjʊəli] – adv. in a gradual manner: the snake moved gradually toward its victim

graduate [ˈgrædjueit] – v. receive an academic degree upon completion of one’s studies: She graduated in 1990

grain [grein] – n. a relatively small granular particle of a substance: a grain of sand

grammar [ˈgræmə] – n. the branch of linguistics that deals with syntax and morphology (and sometimes also deals with semantics)

grammatical [grəˈmætikəl] – adj. conforming to the rules of grammar or usage accepted by native speakers: spoke in grammatical sentences

grand [grænd] – adj. of behavior that is impressive and ambitious in scale or scope: in the grand manner

grandfather [ˈgrænd.fɑ:ðə] – n. the father of your father or mother

grandmother [ˈgrænd.mʌðə] – n. the mother of your father or mother

grant [grɑ:nt] – n. any monetary aid

graph [græf,grɑ:f] – n. a visual representation of the relations between certain quantities plotted with reference to a set of axes

graphics [ˈgræfiks] – n. the drawings and photographs in the layout of a book

grasp [grɑ:sp] – n. understanding of the nature or meaning or quality or magnitude of something: he has a good grasp of accounting practices

grass [grɑ:s] – n. German writer of novels and poetry and plays (born 1927)

grateful [ˈgreitfəl] – adj. affording comfort or pleasure: the grateful warmth of the fire

grave [greiv] – n. death of a person: he went to his grave without forgiving me

gravel [ˈgrævəl] – v. cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations

gravity [ˈgræviti] – n. a manner that is serious and solemn

great [greit] – adj. relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind: a great juicy steak

greatly [ˈgreitli] – adv. to an extraordinary extent or degree: he improved greatly

green [gri:n] – n. a piece of open land for recreational use in an urban area

greenhouse [ˈgri:nhaus] – n. a building with glass walls and roof; for the cultivation and exhibition of plants under controlled conditions

greet [gri:t] – v. react to in a certain way: The President was greeted with catcalls

grey [grei] – n. United States writer of western adventure novels (1875-1939)

grid [grid] – n. a pattern of regularly spaced horizontal and vertical lines

grief [gri:f] – n. intense sorrow caused by loss of a loved one (especially by death)

grim [grim] – adj. not to be placated or appeased or moved by entreaty: grim determination

grin [grin] – n. a facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement

grind [graind] – v. work hard

grip [grip] – n. the appendage to an object that is designed to be held in order to use or move it: it was an old briefcase but it still had a good grip

groan [grəun] – n. an utterance expressing pain or disapproval

gross [grəus] – adj. before any deductions: gross income

ground [graund] – v. fix firmly and stably

group [gru:p] – n. any number of entities (members) considered as a unit

grow [grəu] – v. become larger, greater, or bigger; expand or gain

growth [grəuθ] – n. a progression from simpler to more complex forms: the growth of culture

guarantee [.gærənˈti:] – v. give surety or assume responsibility

guard [gɑ:d] – n. a person who keeps watch over something or someone

guardian [ˈgɑ:djən] – n. a person who cares for persons or property

guerrilla [gəˈrilə] – n. a member of an irregular armed force that fights a stronger force by sabotage and harassment

guess [ges] – v. expect, believe, or suppose: I guess she is angry at me for standing her up

guest [gest] – n. a visitor to whom hospitality is extended

guidance [ˈgaidəns] – n. something that provides direction or advice as to a decision or course of action

guide [gaid] – n. someone employed to conduct others

guideline [ˈgaidlain] – n. a light line that is used in lettering to help align the letters

guild [gild] – n. a formal association of people with similar interests

guilt [gilt] – n. the state of having committed an offense

guilty [ˈgilti] – adj. responsible for or chargeable with a reprehensible act: guilty of murder

guitar [giˈtɑ:] – n. a stringed instrument usually having six strings; played by strumming or plucking

gun [gʌn] – n. a weapon that discharges a missile at high velocity (especially from a metal tube or barrel)

gut [gʌt] – n. the part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus

guy [gai] – n. an informal term for a youth or man: a nice guy

habit [ˈhæbit] – n. an established custom: it was their habit to dine at 7 every evening

habitat [ˈhæbitæt] – n. the type of environment in which an organism or group normally lives or occurs: a marine habitat

hair [hɛə] – n. a very small distance or space: they escaped by a hair’s-breadth

half [hɑ:f] – adj. consisting of one of two equivalent parts in value or quantity: a half chicken

halfway [ˈhɑ:fˈwei] – adj. equally distant from the extremes

hall [hɔ:l] – n. an interior passage or corridor onto which rooms open: the elevators were at the end of the hall

halt [hɔ:lt] – v. cause to stop: halt the presses

ham [hæm] – n. meat cut from the thigh of a hog (usually smoked)

hammer [ˈhæmə] – n. the part of a gunlock that strikes the percussion cap when the trigger is pulled

hand [hænd] – n. the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb: he had the hands of a surgeon

handful [ˈhændful] – n. a small number or amount: only a handful of responses were received

handicap [ˈhændikæp] – n. the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness

handicapped [ˈhændikæpt] – adj. incapable of functioning as a consequence of injury or illness

handle [ˈhændl] – v. be in charge of, act on, or dispose of: This blender can’t handle nuts

handling [ˈhændliŋ] – n. manual (or mechanical) carrying or moving or delivering or working with something

handsome [ˈhænsəm] – adj. pleasing in appearance especially by reason of conformity to ideals of form and proportion: very pretty but not so extraordinarily handsome

handy [ˈhændi] – adj. easy to reach: found a handy spot for the can opener

hang [hæŋ] – v. let drop or droop

happen [ˈhæpən] – v. come to pass: What is happening?

happily [ˈhæpili] – adv. in a joyous manner: they shouted happily

happiness [ˈhæpinis] – n. state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy

happy [ˈhæpi] – adj. enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure: a happy smile

harbour  – v. secretly shelter (as of fugitives or criminals)

hard [hɑ:d] – adj. not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure: why is it so hard for you to keep a secret?

hardly [ˈhɑ:dli] – adv. only a very short time before: we hardly knew them

hardship [ˈhɑ:dʃip] – n. a state of misfortune or affliction: a life of hardship

hardware [ˈhɑ:dwɛə] – n. major items of military weaponry (as tanks or missile)

harm [hɑ:m] – n. any physical damage to the body caused by violence or accident or fracture etc.

harmful [ˈhɑ:mfəl] – adj. causing or capable of causing harm: too much sun is harmful to the skin

harmony [ˈhɑ:məni] – n. compatibility in opinion and action

harsh [hɑ:ʃ] – adj. unpleasantly stern: wild and harsh country full of hot sand and cactus

harvest [ˈhɑ:vist] – n. the yield from plants in a single growing season

hastily  – adv. in a hurried or hasty manner: hastily, he scanned the headlines

hat [hæt] – n. an informal term for a person’s role: he took off his politician’s hat and talked frankly

hate [heit] – n. the emotion of intense dislike; a feeling of dislike so strong that it demands action

hatred [ˈheitrid] – n. the emotion of intense dislike; a feeling of dislike so strong that it demands action

haul [hɔ:l] – n. the quantity that was caught

haunt [hɔ:nt] – v. follow stealthily or recur constantly and spontaneously to: the ghost of her mother haunted her

have [hæv] – v. go through (mental or physical states or experiences): have a feeling

hay [hei] – n. grass mowed and cured for use as fodder

hazard [ˈhæzəd] – n. a source of danger; a possibility of incurring loss or misfortune: drinking alcohol is a health hazard

head [hed] – n. a single domestic animal: 200 head of cattle

heading [ˈhediŋ] – n. a line of text serving to indicate what the passage below it is about: the heading seemed to have little to do with the text

headline [ˈhedlain] – n. the heading or caption of a newspaper article

headmaster [ˈhedˈmɑ:stə] – n. presiding officer of a school

headquarters [ˈhedˈkwɔ:təz] – n. (usually plural) the office that serves as the administrative center of an enterprise: many companies have their headquarters in New York

heal [hi:l] – v. provide a cure for, make healthy again: The quack pretended to heal patients but never managed to

health [helθ] – n. the general condition of body and mind: his delicate health

healthy [ˈhelθi] – adj. financially secure and functioning well: a healthy economy

heap [hi:p] – n. (often followed by `of’) a large number or amount or extent

hear [hiə] – v. get to know or become aware of, usually accidentally

heart [hɑ:t] – n. the locus of feelings and intuitions: in your heart you know it is true

heat [hi:t] – n. a form of energy that is transferred by a difference in temperature

heating [ˈhi:tiŋ] – n. the process of becoming warmer; a rising temperature

heaven [ˈhevn] – n. any place of complete bliss and delight and peace

heavily [ˈhevili] – adv. to a considerable degree: he relied heavily on others’ data

heavy [ˈhevi] – adj. of comparatively great physical weight or density: a heavy load

hectare [ˈhektɑ:] – n. (abbreviated `ha’) a unit of surface area equal to 100 ares (or 10,000 square meters)

hedge [hedʒ] – v. avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)

heel [hi:l] – n. the back part of the human foot

height [hait] – n. the vertical dimension of extension; distance from the base of something to the top

heir [ɛə] – n. a person who inherits some title or office

helicopter [ˈhelikɔptə] – n. an aircraft without wings that obtains its lift from the rotation of overhead blades

hell [hel] – n. any place of pain and turmoil: the hell of battle

helmet [ˈhelmit] – n. armor plate that protects the head

help [help] – v. improve the condition of: These pills will help the patient

helpful [ˈhelpfəl] – adj. providing assistance or serving a useful function

helpless [ˈhelplis] – adj. lacking in or deprived of strength or power: lying ill and helpless

hemisphere [ˈhemisfiə] – n. half of the terrestrial globe

hen [hen] – n. adult female chicken

hence [hens] – adv. (used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result: the eggs were fresh and hence satisfactory

herb [hə:b] – n. a plant lacking a permanent woody stem; many are flowering garden plants or potherbs; some having medicinal properties; some are pests

herd [hə:d] – n. a group of wild mammals of one species that remain together: antelope or elephants or seals or whales or zebra

here [hiə] – adv. in this circumstance or respect or on this point or detail: what do we have here?

heritage [ˈheritidʒ] – n. practices that are handed down from the past by tradition: a heritage of freedom

hero [ˈhiərəu] – n. the principal character in a play or movie or novel or poem

heroin [ˈherəuin] – n. a narcotic that is considered a hard drug; a highly addictive morphine derivative; intravenous injection provides the fastest and most intense rush

hesitate [ˈheziteit] – v. pause or hold back in uncertainty or unwillingness: Authorities hesitate to quote exact figures

hidden  – adj. not accessible to view: concealed (or hidden) damage

hide [haid] – v. prevent from being seen or discovered: Muslim women hide their faces

hierarchy [ˈhaiərɑ:ki] – n. a series of ordered groupings of people or things within a system: put honesty first in her hierarchy of values

high [hai] – n. a lofty level or position or degree: summer temperatures reached an all-time high

highlight [ˈhailait] – n. the most interesting or memorable part: the highlight of the tour was our visit to the Vatican

highly [ˈhaili] – adv. at a high rate or wage: highly paid workers

highway [ˈhaiwei] – n. a major road for any form of motor transport

hill [hil] – n. a local and well-defined elevation of the land: they loved to roam the hills of West Virginia

hint [hint] – n. an indirect suggestion

hip [hip] – n. either side of the body below the waist and above the thigh

hire [ˈhaiə] – v. hold under a lease or rental agreement; of goods and services

historian [hisˈtɔ:riən] – n. a person who is an authority on history and who studies it and writes about it

historic [hisˈtɔ:rik] – adj. belonging to the past; of what is important or famous in the past: historic victories

historical [hisˈtɔ:rikəl] – adj. having once lived or existed or taken place in the real world as distinct from being legendary: the historical Jesus

historically  – adv. with respect to history: this is historically interesting

history [ˈhistəri] – n. the aggregate of past events: a critical time in the school’s history

hit [hit] – v. cause to move by striking: hit a ball

hitherto [ˈhiðəˈtu:] – adv. used in negative statement to describe a situation that has existed up to this point or up to the present time

hobby [ˈhɔbi] – n. an auxiliary activity

hold [həuld] – v. keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g.,: hold in place

holder [ˈhəuldə] – n. a person who holds something

holding [ˈhəuldiŋ] – n. the act of retaining something

hole [həul] – n. an opening into or through something

holiday [ˈhɔlədi] – n. leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure: we took a short holiday in Puerto Rico

holly  – n. any tree or shrub of the genus Ilex having red berries and shiny evergreen leaves with prickly edges

holy [ˈhəuli] – n. a sacred place of pilgrimage

home [həum] – n. where you live at a particular time: deliver the package to my home

homeless [ˈhəumlis] – n. someone unfortunate without housing: a homeless was found murdered in Central Park

homework [ˈhəumwə:k] – n. preparatory school work done outside school (especially at home)

homosexual  – adj. sexually attracted to members of your own sex

honest [ˈɔnist] – adj. not disposed to cheat or defraud; not deceptive or fraudulent: honest lawyers

honestly  – adv. (used as intensives reflecting the speaker’s attitude) it is sincerely the case that: honestly, I don’t believe it

honey [ˈhʌni] – n. a sweet yellow liquid produced by bees

honour  – n. a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction

honourable  – adj. worthy of being honored; entitled to honor and respect

hook [huk] – v. rip off; ask an unreasonable price

hope [həup] – n. the general feeling that some desire will be fulfilled: in spite of his troubles he never gave up hope

hopefully [ˈhəʊpfʊli] – adv. it is hoped: hopefully the weather will be fine on Sunday

horizon [həˈraizn] – n. the line at which the sky and Earth appear to meet

horizontal [.hɔriˈzɔntl] – adj. parallel to or in the plane of the horizon or a base line: a horizontal surface

horn [hɔ:n] – n. a noisemaker (as at parties or games) that makes a loud noise when you blow through it

horrible [ˈhɔrəbl] – adj. provoking horror: war is beyond all words horrible

horror [ˈhɔrə] – n. intense and profound fear

horse [hɔ:s] – n. solid-hoofed herbivorous quadruped domesticated since prehistoric times

hospital [ˈhɔspitl] – n. a health facility where patients receive treatment

hospitality [.hɔspiˈtæliti] – n. kindness in welcoming guests or strangers

host [həust] – n. a vast multitude

hostage [ˈhɔstidʒ] – n. a prisoner who is held by one party to insure that another party will meet specified terms

hostile [ˈhɔstail] – adj. characterized by enmity or ill will: a hostile nation

hostility [hɔsˈtiliti] – n. a state of deep-seated ill-will

hot [hɔt] – adj. characterized by violent and forceful activity or movement; very intense: the fighting became hot and heavy

hotel [həuˈtel] – n. a building where travelers can pay for lodging and meals and other services

hour [auə] – n. a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day: the job will take more than an hour

house [haus] – n. a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families: he has a house on Cape Cod

household [ˈhaushəuld] – n. a social unit living together: It was a good Christian household

housewife [ˈhauswaif] – n. a wife who manages a household while her husband earns the family income

housing [ˈhauziŋ] – n. a protective cover designed to contain or support a mechanical component

hover [ˈhʌvə] – v. be undecided about something; waver between conflicting positions or courses of action

however [hauˈevə] – adv. despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession): although I’m a little afraid, however I’d like to try it

hug [hʌg] – v. squeeze (someone) tightly in your arms, usually with fondness: He hugged her close to him

huge [hju:dʒ] – adj. unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope: huge government spending

human [ˈhju:mən] – adj. relating to a person: the experiment was conducted on 6 monkeys and 2 human subjects

humanity [hju:ˈmæniti] – n. the quality of being human

humble [ˈhʌmbl] – adj. low or inferior in station or quality: a humble cottage

humour  – n. a characteristic (habitual or relatively temporary) state of feeling

hunger [ˈhʌŋgə] – v. feel the need to eat

hungry [ˈhʌŋgri] – adj. (usually followed by `for’) extremely desirous: hungry for recognition

hunt [hʌnt] – n. Englishman and Pre-Raphaelite painter (1827-1910)

hunter [ˈhʌntə] – n. a person who searches for something: a treasure hunter

hunting  – n. the pursuit and killing or capture of wild animals regarded as a sport

hurry [ˈhʌri] – n. overly eager speed (and possible carelessness)

hurt [hə:t] – v. be the source of pain

husband [ˈhʌzbənd] – n. a married man; a woman’s partner in marriage

hut [hʌt] – n. temporary military shelter

hydrogen [ˈhaidridʒən] – n. a nonmetallic univalent element that is normally a colorless and odorless highly flammable diatomic gas; the simplest and lightest and most abundant element in the universe

hypothesis [haiˈpɔθisis] – n. a proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations

ice [ais] – n. water frozen in the solid state: Americans like ice in their drinks

idea [aiˈdiə] – n. the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about: it was not a good idea

ideal [aiˈdiəl] – adj. constituting or existing only in the form of an idea or mental image or conception: a poem or essay may be typical of its period in idea or ideal content

ideally  – adv. in an ideal manner: ideally, this will remove all problems

identical [aiˈdentikəl] – adj. exactly alike; incapable of being perceived as different: rows of identical houses

identification [ai.dentifiˈkeiʃən] – n. evidence of identity; something that identifies a person or thing

identify [aiˈdentifai] – v. recognize as being; establish the identity of someone or something

identity [aiˈdentiti] – n. the distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity: you can lose your identity when you join the army

ideological [.aidiəˈlɔdʒikəl] – adj. of or pertaining to or characteristic of an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation

ideology [.aidiˈɔlədʒi] – n. an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation

ignorance [ˈignərəns] – n. the lack of knowledge or education

ignore [igˈnɔ:] – v. refuse to acknowledge

ill [il] – adj. affected by an impairment of normal physical or mental function: ill from the monotony of his suffering

illegal [iˈli:gəl] – adj. prohibited by law or by official or accepted rules: an illegal chess move

illness [ˈilnis] – n. impairment of normal physiological function affecting part or all of an organism

illuminate [iˈlju:mineit] – v. make lighter or brighter

illusion [iˈlu:ʒən] – n. an erroneous mental representation

illustrate [ˈiləstreit] – v. clarify by giving an example of

illustration [i.ləsˈtreiʃən] – n. artwork that helps make something clear or attractive

image [ˈimidʒ] – n. an iconic mental representation: her imagination forced images upon her too awful to contemplate

imagination [i.mædʒiˈneiʃən] – n. the formation of a mental image of something that is not perceived as real and is not present to the senses: popular imagination created a world of demons

imaginative [iˈmædʒinətiv] – adj. (used of persons or artifacts) marked by independence and creativity in thought or action: an imaginative use of material

imagine [iˈmædʒin] – v. expect, believe, or suppose: I imagine she earned a lot of money with her new novel

immediate [iˈmi:djət] – adj. of the present time and place: the immediate revisions

immediately [iˈmi:djətli] – adv. without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening: he answered immediately

immense [iˈmens] – adj. unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope: the Los Angeles aqueduct winds like an immense snake along the base of the mountains

immigrant [ˈimigrənt] – n. a person who comes to a country where they were not born in order to settle there

immigration [.imiˈgreiʃən] – n. migration into a place (especially migration to a country of which you are not a native in order to settle there)

imminent [ˈiminənt] – adj. close in time; about to occur: in imminent danger

immune [iˈmju:n] – adj. secure against: immune from taxation as long as he resided in Bermuda

impact [ˈimpækt,imˈpækt] – n. the striking of one body against another

imperial [imˈpiəriəl] – adj. relating to or associated with an empire: imperial colony

implementation [.implimenˈteiʃən] – n. the act of accomplishing some aim or executing some order: the agency was created for the implementation of the policy

implication [.impliˈkeiʃən] – n. something that is inferred (deduced or entailed or implied): his resignation had political implications

implicit [imˈplisit] – adj. being without doubt or reserve: implicit trust

imply [imˈplai] – v. express or state indirectly

import [ˈimpɔ:t,imˈpɔ:t] – n. commodities (goods or services) bought from a foreign country

importance [imˈpɔ:təns] – n. a prominent status: a person of importance

important [imˈpɔ:tənt] – adj. of great significance or value: important people

importantly  – adv. in an important way: for centuries jellies have figured importantly among English desserts, particularly upon festive occasion

impose [imˈpəuz] – v. compel to behave in a certain way: Social relations impose courtesy

impossible [imˈpɔsəbl] – adj. not capable of occurring or being accomplished or dealt with: an impossible dream

impress [imˈpres] – v. have an emotional or cognitive impact upon: This child impressed me as unusually mature

impression [imˈpreʃən] – n. a vague idea in which some confidence is placed: his impression of her was favorable

impressive [imˈpresiv] – adj. producing a strong effect: gave an impressive performance as Othello

imprison [imˈprizn] – v. lock up or confine, in or as in a jail: The suspects were imprisoned without trial

imprisonment [imˈprizənmənt] – n. putting someone in prison or in jail as lawful punishment

improve [imˈpru:v] – v. to make better: The editor improved the manuscript with his changes

improved  – adj. made more desirable or valuable or profitable; especially made ready for use or marketing: new houses are springing up on an improved tract of land near the river

improvement [imˈpru:vmənt] – n. a change for the better; progress in development

impulse [ˈimpʌls] – n. an instinctive motive: profound religious impulses

in [in] – n. a unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot

inability [.inəˈbiliti] – n. lack of ability (especially mental ability) to do something

inadequate [inˈædikwit] – adj. lacking the requisite qualities or resources to meet a task: inadequate training

inappropriate [.inəˈprəupriit] – adj. not suitable for a particular occasion etc: noise seems inappropriate at a time of sadness

incapable [inˈkeipəbl] – adj. (followed by `of’) lacking capacity or ability: incapable of carrying a tune

incentive [inˈsentiv] – n. a positive motivational influence

inch [intʃ] – n. a unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot

incidence [ˈinsidəns] – n. the relative frequency of occurrence of something

incident [ˈinsidənt] – n. a single distinct event

incidentally [.insiˈdentəli] – adv. introducing a different topic; in point of fact: incidentally, I won’t go to the party

inclined [inˈklaind] – adj. (often followed by `to’) having a preference, disposition, or tendency: wasn’t inclined to believe the excuse

include [inˈklu:d] – v. have as a part, be made up out of: The list includes the names of many famous writers

inclusion [inˈklu:ʒən] – n. the relation of comprising something: he admired the inclusion of so many ideas in such a short work

income [ˈin.kʌm] – n. the financial gain (earned or unearned) accruing over a given period of time

incorporate [inˈkɔ:pəreit] – v. make into a whole or make part of a whole: She incorporated his suggestions into her proposal

increase [ˈinkri:s,inˈkri:s] – n. a quantity that is added

increased  – adj. made greater in size or amount or degree

increasing [inˈkri:siŋ] – adj. becoming greater or larger: increasing prices

increasingly [inˈkri:siŋli] – adv. advancing in amount or intensity: she became increasingly depressed

incredible [inˈkredəbl] – adj. beyond belief or understanding: at incredible speed

incredibly  – adv. not easy to believe: behind you the coastal hills plunge to the incredibly blue sea backed by the Turkish mountains

incur [inˈkə:] – v. make oneself subject to; bring upon oneself; become liable to: People who smoke incur a great danger to their health

indeed [inˈdi:d] – adv. in truth (often tends to intensify): they said the car would break down and indeed it did

independence [.indiˈpendəns] – n. freedom from control or influence of another or others

independent [.indiˈpendənt] – adj. free from external control and constraint: an independent mind

independently [indiˈpendəntli] – adv. on your own; without outside help: the children worked on the project independently

index [ˈindeks] – n. a numerical scale used to compare variables with one another or with some reference number

indicate [ˈindikeit] – v. be a signal for or a symptom of: These symptoms indicate a serious illness

indication [.indiˈkeiʃən] – n. the act of indicating or pointing out by name

indicator [ˈindikeitə] – n. a signal for attracting attention

indigenous [inˈdidʒənəs] – adj. originating where it is found: the Ainu are indigenous to the northernmost islands of Japan

indirect [.indiˈrekt] – adj. having intervening factors or persons or influences: reflection from the ceiling provided a soft indirect light

indirectly [.indiˈrektli] – adv. not in a forthright manner: he answered very indirectly

individual [.indiˈvidjuəl] – adj. being or characteristic of a single thing or person: individual drops of rain

individually  – adv. apart from others: taken individually, the rooms were, in fact, square

indoor [ˈindɔ:] – adj. located, suited for, or taking place within a building: indoor activities for a rainy day

induce [inˈdju:s] – v. cause to arise: induce a crisis

indulge [inˈdʌldʒ] – v. give free rein to: The writer indulged in metaphorical language

industrial [inˈdʌstriəl] – adj. having highly developed industries: the industrial revolution

industry [ˈindəstri] – n. the people or companies engaged in a particular kind of commercial enterprise: each industry has its own trade publications

inequality  – n. lack of equality: the growing inequality between rich and poor

inevitable [inˈevitəbl] – adj. incapable of being avoided or prevented: the inevitable result

inevitably [inˈevitəbli] – adv. in such a manner as could not be otherwise

infant [ˈinfənt] – n. a very young child (birth to 1 year) who has not yet begun to walk or talk

infect [inˈfekt] – v. communicate a disease to: Your children have infected you with this head cold

infection [inˈfekʃən] – n. the pathological state resulting from the invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms

infinite [ˈinfinit] – adj. having no limits or boundaries in time or space or extent or magnitude: the infinite ingenuity of man

inflation [inˈfleiʃən] – n. a general and progressive increase in prices: in inflation everything gets more valuable except money

inflict [inˈflikt] – v. impose something unpleasant

influence [ˈinfluəns] – n. a power to affect persons or events especially power based on prestige etc: used her parents’ influence to get the job

influential [.influˈenʃəl] – adj. having or exercising influence or power: an influential newspaper

inform [inˈfɔ:m] – v. impart knowledge of some fact, state or affairs, or event to: I informed him of his rights

informal [inˈfɔ:məl] – adj. not formal: conservative people unaccustomed to informal dress

information [.infəˈmeiʃən] – n. a message received and understood

infrastructure [ˈinfrəˈstrʌktʃə] – n. the basic structure or features of a system or organization

ingredient [inˈgri:diənt] – n. a component of a mixture or compound

inhabitant [inˈhæbitənt] – n. a person who inhabits a particular place

inherent [inˈhiərənt] – adj. existing as an essential constituent or characteristic

inherit [inˈherit] – v. obtain from someone after their death: I inherited a castle from my French grandparents

inheritance [inˈheritəns] – n. hereditary succession to a title or an office or property

inhibit [inˈhibit] – v. to put down by force or authority

inhibition  – n. (psychology) the conscious exclusion of unacceptable thoughts or desires

initial [iˈniʃəl] – n. the first letter of a word (especially a person’s name): he refused to put the initials FRS after his name

initially [iˈniʃəli] – adv. at the beginning

initiate [iˈniʃieit] – v. bring into being: He initiated a new program

initiative [iˈniʃətiv] – n. readiness to embark on bold new ventures

inject [inˈdʒekt] – v. to introduce (a new aspect or element): He injected new life into the performance

injection [inˈdʒekʃən] – n. the forceful insertion of a substance under pressure

injunction [inˈdʒʌŋkʃən] – n. a formal command or admonition

injure [ˈindʒə] – v. hurt the feelings of

injured  – adj. harmed: injured soldiers

injury [ˈindʒəri] – n. any physical damage to the body caused by violence or accident or fracture etc.

inland [ˈinlənd] – adj. situated away from an area’s coast or border

inn [in] – n. a hotel providing overnight lodging for travelers

inner [ˈinə] – adj. located inward: Beethoven’s manuscript looks like a bloody record of a tremendous inner battle

innocence [ˈinəsns] – n. the state of being unsullied by sin or moral wrong; lacking a knowledge of evil

innocent [ˈinəsnt] – adj. free from evil or guilt: an innocent child

innovation [.inəuˈveiʃən] – n. a creation (a new device or process) resulting from study and experimentation

innovative [ˈinəʊveitiv] – adj. ahead of the times: is British industry innovative enough?

input [ˈinput] – n. signal going into an electronic system

inquest  – n. an inquiry into the cause of an unexpected death

inquiry [inˈkwaiəri] – n. a search for knowledge

insect [ˈinsekt] – n. small air-breathing arthropod

insert [inˈsə:t] – n. a folded section placed between the leaves of another publication

inside [ˈinˈsaid] – adj. relating to or being on the side closer to the center or within a defined space: he reached into his inside jacket pocket

insider [inˈsaidə(r)] – n. an officer of a corporation or others who have access to private information about the corporation’s operations

insight [ˈinsait] – n. clear or deep perception of a situation

insist [inˈsist] – v. be emphatic or resolute and refuse to budge: I must insist!

insistence [inˈsistəns] – n. continual and persistent demands

inspect [inˈspekt] – v. look over carefully: Please inspect your father’s will carefully

inspection [inˈspekʃən] – n. a formal or official examination: we had to wait for the inspection before we could use the elevator

inspector [inˈspektə] – n. a high ranking police officer

inspiration [.inspəˈreiʃən] – n. arousal of the mind to special unusual activity or creativity

inspire [inˈspair] – v. heighten or intensify

instal  – v. set up for use: install the washer and dryer

install [inˈstɔ:l] – v. set up for use: install the washer and dryer

installation [.instəˈleiʃən] – n. a building or place that provides a particular service or is used for a particular industry

instance [ˈinstəns] – n. an occurrence of something: another instance occurred yesterday

instant [ˈinstənt] – adj. occurring with no delay: relief was instantaneous

instantly [ˈinstəntli] – adv. without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening

instead [inˈsted] – adv. in place of, or as an alternative to: Felix became a herpetologist instead

instinct [ˈinstiŋkt] – n. inborn pattern of behavior often responsive to specific stimuli: the spawning instinct in salmon

institute [ˈinstitju:t] – v. set up or lay the groundwork for

institution [.instiˈtju:ʃən] – n. an organization founded and united for a specific purpose

institutional  – adj. organized as or forming an institution: institutional religion

instruct [inˈstrʌkt] – v. impart skills or knowledge to: He instructed me in building a boat

instruction [inˈstrʌkʃən] – n. a message describing how something is to be done

instructor [inˈstrʌktə] – n. a person whose occupation is teaching

instrument [ˈinstrumənt] – n. a device that requires skill for proper use

instrumental [.instruˈmentl] – adj. serving or acting as a means or aid: instrumental in solving the crime

insufficient [.insəˈfiʃənt] – adj. of a quantity not able to fulfill a need or requirement: insufficient funds

insurance [inˈʃuərəns] – n. protection against future loss

insure [inˈʃuə] – v. be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something

intact [inˈtækt] – adj. constituting the undiminished entirety; lacking nothing essential especially not damaged: fought to keep the union intact

intake [ˈinteik] – n. an opening through which fluid is admitted to a tube or container

integral [ˈintigrəl] – adj. existing as an essential constituent or characteristic

integrate [ˈintigreit] – v. make into a whole or make part of a whole

integrated [ˈintigreitid] – adj. formed or united into a whole

integration [.intiˈgreiʃən] – n. the action of incorporating a racial or religious group into a community

integrity [inˈtegriti] – n. an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting: the integrity of the nervous system is required for normal development

intellectual [.intilˈektʃuəl] – adj. of or associated with or requiring the use of the mind: intellectual problems

intelligence [inˈtelidʒəns] – n. the ability to comprehend; to understand and profit from experience

intelligent [inˈtelidʒənt] – adj. having the capacity for thought and reason especially to a high degree: is there intelligent life in the universe?

intend [inˈtend] – v. have in mind as a purpose

intense [inˈtens] – adj. possessing or displaying a distinctive feature to a heightened degree: intense heat

intensify [inˈtensifai] – v. make more intense, stronger, or more marked

intensity [inˈtensiti] – n. the amount of energy transmitted (as by acoustic or electromagnetic radiation): he adjusted the intensity of the sound

intensive [inˈtensiv] – adj. tending to give force or emphasis: an intensive adverb

intent [inˈtent] – n. the intended meaning of a communication

intention [inˈtenʃən] – n. (usually plural) the goal with respect to a marriage proposal: his intentions are entirely honorable

interaction [.intəˈrækʃən] – n. a mutual or reciprocal action; interacting

interactive [.intərˈæktiv] – adj. used especially of drugs or muscles that work together so the total effect is greater than the sum of the two (or more)

intercourse [ˈintəkɔ:s] – n. communication between individuals

interest [ˈintərist] – n. a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something: an interest in music

interested [ˈintəristid] – adj. involved in or affected by or having a claim to or share in: the interested parties met to discuss the business

interesting [ˈintəristiŋ] – adj. arousing or holding the attention

interface [ˈintəfeis] – n. (chemistry) a surface forming a common boundary between two things (two objects or liquids or chemical phases)

interfere [.intəˈfiə] – v. come between so as to be hindrance or obstacle: Your talking interferes with my work!

interference [.intəˈfiərəns] – n. a policy of intervening in the affairs of other countries

interim [ˈintərim] – n. the time between one event, process, or period and another

interior [inˈtiəriə] – adj. situated within or suitable for inside a building: an interior scene

intermediate [.intəˈmi:diət] – adj. lying between two extremes in time or space or state: going from sitting to standing without intermediate pushes with the hands

internal [inˈtə:nəl] – adj. happening or arising or located within some limits or especially surface: internal organs

international [.intəˈnæʃənəl] – adj. concerning or belonging to all or at least two or more nations: international affairs

interpret [inˈtə:prit] – v. make sense of; assign a meaning to: How do you interpret his behavior?

interpretation [in.tə:priˈteiʃən] – n. a mental representation of the meaning or significance of something

interrupt [.intəˈrʌpt] – v. make a break in: We interrupt the program for the following messages

interval [ˈintəvəl] – n. a definite length of time marked off by two instants

intervene [.intəˈvi:n] – v. get involved, so as to alter or hinder an action, or through force or threat of force: Why did the U.S. not intervene earlier in WW II?

intervention [.intə(:)ˈvenʃən] – n. a policy of intervening in the affairs of other countries

interview [ˈintəvju:] – v. discuss formally with (somebody) for the purpose of an evaluation: We interviewed the job candidates

intimate [ˈintimeit,ˈintimit] – adj. marked by close acquaintance, association, or familiarity: intimate friend

introduce [.intrəˈdju:s] – v. cause to come to know personally: introduce the new neighbors to the community

introduction [.intrəˈdʌkʃən] – n. the act of beginning something new

invade [inˈveid] – v. march aggressively into another’s territory by military force for the purposes of conquest and occupation: Hitler invaded Poland on September 1, 1939

invaluable [inˈvæljuəbl] – adj. having incalculable monetary, intellectual, or spiritual worth

invariably [inˈveəriəb(ə)li] – adv. without variation or change, in every case

invasion [inˈveiʒən] – n. any entry into an area not previously occupied: an invasion of tourists

invent [inˈvent] – v. come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort

invention [inˈvenʃən] – n. the creation of something in the mind

invest [inˈvest] – v. give qualities or abilities to

investigate [inˈvestigeit] – v. conduct an inquiry or investigation of: The district attorney’s office investigated reports of possible irregularities

investigation [in.vestiˈgeiʃən] – n. an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities

investigator [inˈvestigeitə] – n. a scientist who devotes himself to doing research

investment [inˈvestmənt] – n. money that is invested with an expectation of profit

investor [inˈvestə] – n. someone who commits capital in order to gain financial returns

invisible [inˈvizəbl] – adj. impossible or nearly impossible to see; imperceptible by the eye: the invisible man

invitation [.inviˈteiʃən] – n. a request (spoken or written) to participate or be present or take part in something: an invitation to lunch

invite [inˈvait] – v. increase the likelihood of: invite criticism

invoke [inˈvəuk] – v. summon into action or bring into existence, often as if by magic

involve [inˈvɔlv] – v. connect closely and often incriminatingly

involved [inˈvɔlvd] – adj. connected by participation or association or use: we accomplished nothing, simply because of the large number of people involved

involvement [inˈvɔlvmənt] – n. the act of sharing in the activities of a group

ion [ˈaiən] – n. a particle that is electrically charged (positive or negative); an atom or molecule or group that has lost or gained one or more electrons

iron [ˈaiən] – n. a golf club that has a relatively narrow metal head

ironically [aiˈrɔnikəli] – adv. contrary to plan or expectation: ironically, he ended up losing money under his own plan

irony [ˈaiərəni] – n. witty language used to convey insults or scorn: irony is wasted on the stupid

irrelevant [iˈrelivənt] – adj. having no bearing on or connection with the subject at issue: an irrelevant comment

irrespective [.iriˈspektiv] – adv. in spite of everything; without regard to drawbacks

island [ˈailənd] – n. a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water

isolated [ˈaisəleitid] – adj. not close together in time: isolated instances of rebellion

isolation [.aisəuˈleiʃən] – n. a state of separation between persons or groups

issue [ˈiʃju:] – n. an important question that is in dispute and must be settled: the issue could be settled by requiring public education for everyone

item [ˈaitəm] – n. a distinct part that can be specified separately in a group of things that could be enumerated on a list: he noticed an item in the New York Times

ivory [ˈaivəri] – n. a shade of white the color of bleached bones

jacket [ˈdʒækit] – n. a short coat

jail [dʒeil] – n. a correctional institution used to detain persons who are in the lawful custody of the government (either accused persons awaiting trial or convicted persons serving a sentence)

jam [dʒæm] – v. press tightly together or cram

jar [dʒɑ:] – v. be incompatible; be or come into conflict

jaw [dʒɔ:] – v. talk socially without exchanging too much information

jazz [dʒæz] – n. empty rhetoric or insincere or exaggerated talk: don’t give me any of that jazz

jealous [ˈdʒeləs] – adj. showing extreme cupidity; painfully desirous of another’s advantages: jealous of his success and covetous of his possessions

jerk [dʒə:k] – n. a dull stupid fatuous person

jet [dʒet] – n. the occurrence of a sudden discharge (as of liquid)

Jew [dʒu:] – n. a person belonging to the worldwide group claiming descent from Jacob (or converted to it) and connected by cultural or religious ties

jewel [ˈdʒu:əl] – v. adorn or decorate with precious stones: jeweled dresses

jewellery  – n. an adornment (as a bracelet or ring or necklace) made of precious metals and set with gems (or imitation gems)

job [dʒɔb] – n. the principal activity in your life that you do to earn money

jockey [ˈdʒɔki] – v. defeat someone through trickery or deceit

join [dʒɔin] – v. become part of; become a member of a group or organization: He joined the Communist Party as a young man

joint [dʒɔint] – n. (anatomy) the point of connection between two bones or elements of a skeleton (especially if it allows motion)

jointly  – adv. in collaboration or cooperation: this paper was written jointly

joke [dʒəuk] – n. a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter: he told a very funny joke

journal [ˈdʒə:nl] – n. a daily written record of (usually personal) experiences and observations

journalist [ˈdʒə:nəlist] – n. a writer for newspapers and magazines

journey [ˈdʒə:ni] – v. travel upon or across

joy [dʒɔi] – n. the emotion of great happiness

judge [dʒʌdʒ] – v. determine the result of (a competition)

judgement  – n. the legal document stating the reasons for a judicial decision

judgment [ˈdʒʌdʒmənt] – n. the act of judging or assessing a person or situation or event: they criticized my judgment of the contestants

judicial [dʒu:ˈdiʃəl] – adj. decreed by or proceeding from a court of justice: a judicial decision

juice [dʒu:s] – n. the liquid part that can be extracted from plant or animal tissue by squeezing or cooking

jump [dʒʌmp] – v. move forward by leaps and bounds: Can you jump over the fence?

junction [ˈdʒʌŋkʃən] – n. the place where two or more things come together

jungle [ˈdʒʌŋgl] – n. a location marked by an intense competition and struggle for survival

junior [ˈdʒu:njə] – n. term of address for a disrespectful and annoying male: look here, junior, it’s none of your business

jurisdiction [.dʒuərisˈdikʃən] – n. (law) the right and power to interpret and apply the law: courts having jurisdiction in this district

jury [ˈdʒuəri] – n. a body of citizens sworn to give a true verdict according to the evidence presented in a court of law

just [dʒʌst] – adv. and nothing more: just a scratch

justice [ˈdʒʌstis] – n. judgment involved in the determination of rights and the assignment of rewards and punishments

justification [dʒʌstifiˈkeiʃ(ə)n] – n. something (such as a fact or circumstance) that shows an action to be reasonable or necessary: he considered misrule a justification for revolution

justified  – adj. having words so spaced that lines have straight even margins

justify [ˈdʒʌstifai] – v. show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for

keen [ki:n] – adj. having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions

keep [ki:p] – v. continue a certain state, condition, or activity

keeper [ˈki:pə] – n. someone in charge of other people: am I my brother’s keeper?

kettle [ˈketl] – n. a metal pot for stewing or boiling; usually has a lid

key [ki:] – n. metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock’s mechanism can be rotated

keyboard [ˈki:bɔ:d] – n. device consisting of a set of keys on a piano or organ or typewriter or typesetting machine or computer or the like

kick [kik] – v. drive or propel with the foot

kid [kid] – n. a young person of either sex: they’re just kids

kidney [ˈkidni] – n. either of two bean-shaped excretory organs that filter wastes (especially urea) from the blood and excrete them and water in urine: urine passes out of the kidney through ureters to the bladder

kill [kil] – v. cause to die; put to death, usually intentionally or knowingly: This man killed several people when he tried to rob a bank

killer [ˈkilə] – n. someone who causes the death of a person or animal

killing [ˈkiliŋ] – n. an event that causes someone to die

kilometre  – n. a metric unit of length equal to 1000 meters (or 0.621371 miles)

kind [kaind] – adj. having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior: kind to sick patients

kindly [ˈkaindli] – adj. showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity: kindly criticism

king [kiŋ] – n. a competitor who holds a preeminent position

kingdom [ˈkiŋdəm] – n. a domain in which something is dominant: the untroubled kingdom of reason

kiss [kis] – n. the act of caressing with the lips (or an instance thereof)

kit [kit] – n. a case for containing a set of articles

kitchen [ˈkitʃin] – n. a room equipped for preparing meals

kite [kait] – n. a bank check that has been fraudulently altered to increase its face value

knee [ni:] – n. hinge joint in the human leg connecting the tibia and fibula with the femur and protected in front by the patella

kneel [ni:l] – n. supporting yourself on your knees

knife [naif] – n. edge tool used as a cutting instrument; has a pointed blade with a sharp edge and a handle

knight [nait] – n. a chessman shaped to resemble the head of a horse; can move two squares horizontally and one vertically (or vice versa)

knit [nit] – n. needlework created by interlacing yarn in a series of connected loops using straight eyeless needles or by machine

knitting  – n. needlework created by interlacing yarn in a series of connected loops using straight eyeless needles or by machine

knock [nɔk] – v. deliver a sharp blow or push :: He knocked the glass clear across the room

knot [nɔt] – n. a tight cluster of people or things: a small knot of women listened to his sermon

know [nəu] – v. be aware of the truth of something; have a belief or faith in something; regard as true beyond any doubt: I know that I left the key on the table

knowledge [ˈnɔlidʒ] – n. the psychological result of perception and learning and reasoning

known [nəun] – adj. apprehended with certainty: a known quantity

lab [læb] – n. a workplace for the conduct of scientific research

label [ˈleibl] – v. pronounce judgment on: They labeled him unfit to work here

laboratory [ˈlæbrətɔ:ri] – n. a workplace for the conduct of scientific research

labour  – n. concluding state of pregnancy; from the onset of contractions to the birth of a child

labourer  – n. someone who works with their hands; someone engaged in manual labor

lace [leis] – v. spin,wind, or twist together

lack [læk] – n. the state of needing something that is absent or unavailable: there is a serious lack of insight into the problem

lacking  – adj. inadequate in amount or degree: lacking in stamina

lad [læd] – n. a boy or man

ladder [ˈlædə] – n. steps consisting of two parallel members connected by rungs; for climbing up or down

lady [ˈleidi] – n. a polite name for any woman: a nice lady at the library helped me

lake [leik] – n. a purplish red pigment prepared from lac or cochineal

lamb [læm] – n. young sheep

lamp [læmp] – n. an artificial source of visible illumination

land [lænd] – n. territory over which rule or control is exercised: he made it the law of the land

landing [ˈlændiŋ] – n. an intermediate platform in a staircase

landlord [ˈlændlɔ:d] – n. a landowner who leases to others

landowner  – n. a holder or proprietor of land

landscape [ˈlændskeip] – n. an expanse of scenery that can be seen in a single view

lane [lein] – n. a narrow way or road

language [ˈlæŋgwidʒ] – n. a systematic means of communicating by the use of sounds or conventional symbols: he taught foreign languages

lap [læp] – n. the upper side of the thighs of a seated person: he picked up the little girl and plopped her down in his lap

large [lɑ:dʒ] – adj. above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent: a large city

largely [ˈlɑ:dʒli] – adv. on a large scale: the sketch was so largely drawn that you could see it from the back row

large-scale  – adj. unusually large in scope: a large-scale attack on AIDS is needed

laser [ˈleizə] – n. an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation; an optical device that produces an intense monochromatic beam of coherent light

last [lɑ:st] – adj. immediately past: last Thursday

late [leit] – adj. being or occurring at an advanced period of time or after a usual or expected time: late evening

lately [ˈleitli] – adv. in the recent past: lately the rules have been enforced

later [ˈleitə] – adv. happening at a time subsequent to a reference time: he’s going to the store but he’ll be back here later

Latin [ˈlætin] – adj. relating to people or countries speaking Romance languages: Latin America

laugh [lɑ:f] – v. produce laughter

laughter [ˈlɑ:ftə] – n. the activity of laughing; the manifestation of joy or mirth or scorn: he enjoyed the laughter of the crowd

launch [lɔ:ntʃ] – v. set up or found

law [lɔ:] – n. the collection of rules imposed by authority: civilization presupposes respect for the law

lawn [lɔ:n] – n. a field of cultivated and mowed grass

lawyer [ˈlɔ:jə] – n. a professional person authorized to practice law; conducts lawsuits or gives legal advice

lay [lei] – v. put in a horizontal position: lay the books on the table

layer [ˈleiə] – n. single thickness of usually some homogeneous substance

layout [ˈleiaut] – n. a plan or design of something that is laid out

lazy [ˈleizi] – adj. moving slowly and gently: up a lazy river

lead [led,li:d] – n. an advantage held by a competitor in a race: he took the lead at the last turn

leader [ˈli:də] – n. a person who rules or guides or inspires others

leadership [ˈli:dəʃip] – n. the activity of leading: his leadership inspired the team

leading [ˈli:diŋ] – adj. indicating the most important performer or role: the leading man

leaf [li:f] – n. the main organ of photosynthesis and transpiration in higher plants

leaflet [ˈli:flit] – n. a thin triangular flap of a heart valve

league [li:g] – n. an association of sports teams that organizes matches for its members

leak [li:k] – n. soft watery rot in fruits and vegetables caused by fungi

lean [li:n] – v. to incline or bend from a vertical position: She leaned over the banister

leap [li:p] – n. an abrupt transition: a successful leap from college to the major leagues

learn [lə:n] – v. gain knowledge or skills: She learned dancing from her sister

learner [ˈlə:nə] – n. works for an expert to learn a trade

learning [ˈlə:niŋ] – n. the cognitive process of acquiring skill or knowledge

lease [li:s] – v. let for money

least [li:st] – n. something that is of no importance: it is the least I can do

leather [ˈleðə] – n. an animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning

leave [li:v] – v. go away from a place: At what time does your train leave?

lecture [ˈlektʃə] – n. a speech that is open to the public: he attended a lecture on telecommunications

lecturer [ˈlektʃərə] – n. someone who lectures professionally

left [left] – n. those who support varying degrees of social or political or economic change designed to promote the public welfare

leg [leg] – n. one of the supports for a piece of furniture

legacy [ˈlegəsi] – n. (law) a gift of personal property by will

legal [ˈli:gəl] – adj. established by or founded upon law or official or accepted rules

legally  – adv. by law; conforming to the law

legend [ˈledʒənd] – n. a story about mythical or supernatural beings or events

legislation [.ledʒisˈleiʃən] – n. the act of making or enacting laws

legislative [ˈledʒislətiv] – adj. of or relating to or created by legislation: legislative proposal

legislature [ˈledʒisleitʃə] – n. persons who make or amend or repeal laws

legitimate [liˈdʒitimit] – adj. of marriages and offspring; recognized as lawful

leisure [ˈli:ʒə] – n. time available for ease and relaxation: his job left him little leisure

lemon [ˈlemən] – n. yellow oval fruit with juicy acidic flesh

lend [lend] – v. bestow a quality on: Her presence lends a certain cachet to the company

lender  – n. someone who lends money or gives credit in business matters

length [leŋθ] – n. the linear extent in space from one end to the other; the longest dimension of something that is fixed in place: the length of the table was 5 feet

lengthy [ˈleŋθi] – adj. relatively long in duration; tediously protracted: a lengthy visit from her mother-in-law

less [les] – adj. (comparative of `little’ usually used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning not as great in amount or degree: of less importance

lesser  – adj. smaller in size or amount or value: the lesser powers of Europe

lesson [ˈlesn] – n. a unit of instruction: he took driving lessons

let [let] – v. actively cause something to happen: I let it be known that I was not interested

letter [ˈletə] – n. a written message addressed to a person or organization: mailed an indignant letter to the editor

level [ˈlevl] – n. a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality: a high level of care is required

lexical [ˈleksikəl] – adj. of or relating to words: lexical decision task

liability [.laiəˈbiliti] – n. the state of being legally obliged and responsible

liable [ˈlaiəbl] – adj. at risk of or subject to experiencing something usually unpleasant: she is liable to forget

liaison [liˈeizən] – n. a usually secretive or illicit sexual relationship

liberal [ˈlibərəl] – adj. showing or characterized by broad-mindedness: a liberal newspaper

liberation [.libəˈreiʃən] – n. the attempt to achieve equal rights or status: she worked for women’s liberation

liberty [ˈlibəti] – n. immunity from arbitrary exercise of authority: political independence

librarian [laiˈbrɛəriən] – n. a professional person trained in library science and engaged in library services

library [ˈlaibrəri] – n. a room where books are kept: they had brandy in the library

licence [ˈlaisəns] – n. excessive freedom; lack of due restraint

license [ˈlaisns] – n. a legal document giving official permission to do something

lick [lik] – v. beat thoroughly and conclusively in a competition or fight: We licked the other team on Sunday!

lid [lid] – n. either of two folds of skin that can be moved to cover or open the eye: his lids would stay open no longer

lie [lai] – v. be located or situated somewhere; occupy a certain position

life [laif] – n. the experience of being alive; the course of human events and activities: he could no longer cope with the complexities of life

lifespan  – n. the period during which something is functional (as between birth and death)

lifestyle  – n. a manner of living that reflects the person’s values and attitudes

lifetime [ˈlaiftaim] – n. the period during which something is functional (as between birth and death)

lift [lift] – v. raise from a lower to a higher position

light [lait] – adj. of comparatively little physical weight or density: a light load

lighting [ˈlaitiŋ] – n. apparatus for supplying artificial light effects for the stage or a film

lightly [ˈlaitli] – adv. without good reason: one cannot say such things lightly

like [laik] – v. prefer or wish to do something: Would you like to come along to the movies?

likelihood [ˈlaiklihud] – n. the probability of a specified outcome

likely [ˈlaikli] – adj. has a good chance of being the case or of coming about: these services are likely to be available to us all before long

likewise [ˈlaikwaiz] – adv. in addition

limb [lim] – n. any of the main branches arising from the trunk or a bough of a tree

limestone [ˈlaimstəun] – n. a sedimentary rock consisting mainly of calcium that was deposited by the remains of marine animals

limit [ˈlimit] – n. the greatest possible degree of something: to the limit of his ability

limitation [.limiˈteiʃən] – n. the quality of being limited or restricted: it is a good plan but it has serious limitations

limited [ˈlimitid] – adj. small in range or scope: limited war

line [lain] – n. a formation of people or things one beside another: the line of soldiers advanced with their bayonets fixed

linear [ˈliniə] – adj. designating or involving an equation whose terms are of the first degree

linen [ˈlinin] – n. a fabric woven with fibers from the flax plant

linger [ˈliŋgə] – v. remain present although waning or gradually dying: Her perfume lingered on

linguistic [liŋˈgwistik] – adj. consisting of or related to language: linguistic behavior

link [liŋk] – n. a fastener that serves to join or connect: the walls are held together with metal links placed in the wet mortar during construction

lion [ˈlaiən] – n. large gregarious predatory feline of Africa and India having a tawny coat with a shaggy mane in the male

lip [lip] – n. either of two fleshy folds of tissue that surround the mouth and play a role in speaking

liquid [ˈlikwid] – adj. filled or brimming with tears: sorrow made the eyes of many grow liquid

list [list] – v. cause to lean to the side: Erosion listed the old tree

listen [ˈlisn] – v. hear with intention

listener [ˈlisənə] – n. someone who listens attentively

literacy [ˈlitərəsi] – n. the ability to read and write

literally [ˈlitərəli] – adv. (intensifier before a figurative expression) without exaggeration: our eyes were literally pinned to TV during the Gulf War

literary [ˈlitərəri] – adj. knowledgeable about literature: a literary style

literature [ˈlitərətʃə] – n. creative writing of recognized artistic value

litigation [.litiˈgeiʃən] – n. a legal proceeding in a court; a judicial contest to determine and enforce legal rights

litre  – n. a metric unit of capacity, formerly defined as the volume of one kilogram of pure water under standard conditions; now equal to 1,000 cubic centimeters (or approximately 1.75 pints)

little [ˈlitl] – adj. limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent: a little dining room

live [laiv,liv] – adj. actually being performed at the time of hearing or viewing: a live television program

lively [ˈlaivli] – adj. full of life and energy: a lively discussion

liver [ˈlivə] – n. a person who has a special life style: a high liver

living [ˈliviŋ] – adj. true to life; lifelike: the living image of her mother

load [ləud] – n. weight to be borne or conveyed

loan [ləun] – n. the temporary provision of money (usually at interest)

lobby [ˈlɔbi] – n. a large entrance or reception room or area

local [ˈləukəl] – adj. affecting only a restricted part or area of the body: local anesthesia

locality [ləuˈkæliti] – n. a surrounding or nearby region: it is a rugged locality

locally  – adv. to a restricted area of the body

locate [ləuˈkeit] – v. determine or indicate the place, site, or limits of, as if by an instrument or by a survey: Our sense of sight enables us to locate objects in space

location [ləuˈkeiʃən] – n. a point or extent in space

lock [lɔk] – v. keep engaged

locomotive [.ləukəˈməutiv] – n. a wheeled vehicle consisting of a self-propelled engine that is used to draw trains along railway tracks

lodge [lɔdʒ] – n. English physicist who studied electromagnetic radiation and was a pioneer of radiotelegraphy (1851-1940)

log [lɔg] – n. a segment of the trunk of a tree when stripped of branches

logic [ˈlɔdʒik] – n. the branch of philosophy that analyzes inference

logical [ˈlɔdʒikəl] – adj. capable of or reflecting the capability for correct and valid reasoning: a logical mind

lone  – adj. lacking companions or companionship: he was alone when we met him

lonely [ˈləunli] – adj. lacking companions or companionship: a lonely fisherman stood on a tuft of gravel

long [lɔŋ] – adj. primarily spatial sense; of relatively great or greater than average spatial extension or extension as specified: a long road

long-term  – adj. relating to or extending over a relatively long time: the long-term reconstruction of countries damaged by the war

look [luk] – v. perceive with attention; direct one’s gaze towards: She looked over the expanse of land

loop [lu:p] – n. fastener consisting of a metal ring for lining a small hole to permit the attachment of cords or lines

loose [lu:s] – adj. not compact or dense in structure or arrangement: loose gravel

lord [lɔ:d] – n. terms referring to the Judeo-Christian God

lordship  – n. a title used to address any British peer except a duke and extended to a bishop or a judge

lorry [ˈlɔri] – n. a large low horse-drawn wagon without sides

lose [lu:z] – v. fail to keep or to maintain; cease to have, either physically or in an abstract sense

loss [lɔs] – n. gradual decline in amount or activity: weight loss

lost [lɔst] – adj. no longer in your possession or control; unable to be found or recovered: a lost child

lot [lɔt] – n. a parcel of land having fixed boundaries: he bought a lot on the lake

loud [laud] – adj. characterized by or producing sound of great volume or intensity: a group of loud children

loudly  – adv. with relatively high volume: the band played loudly

lounge [laundʒ] – n. an upholstered seat for more than one person

love [lʌv] – n. a strong positive emotion of regard and affection: his love for his work

lovely [ˈlʌvli] – adj. appealing to the emotions as well as the eye

lover [ˈlʌvə] – n. an ardent follower and admirer

low [ləu] – adj. less than normal in degree or intensity or amount: low prices

lower [ˈləuə,ˈlauə] – v. cause to drop or sink

loyal [ˈlɔiəl] – adj. steadfast in allegiance or duty: loyal subjects

loyalty [ˈlɔiəlti] – n. feelings of allegiance

luck [lʌk] – n. an unknown and unpredictable phenomenon that causes an event to result one way rather than another: bad luck caused his downfall

lucky [ˈlʌki] – adj. occurring by chance: a lucky escape

lump [lʌmp] – n. a compact mass

lunch [lʌntʃ] – v. take the midday meal: At what time are you lunching?

lunchtime  – n. the customary or habitual hour for eating lunch: he observed a regular lunchtime

lung [lʌŋ] – n. either of two saclike respiratory organs in the chest of vertebrates; serves to remove carbon dioxide and provide oxygen to the blood

luxury [ˈlʌkʃəri] – n. something that is an indulgence rather than a necessity

machine [məˈʃi:n] – n. an efficient person: the boxer was a magnificent fighting machine

machinery [məˈʃi:nəri] – n. a system of means and activities whereby a social institution functions: the complex machinery of negotiation

mad [mæd] – adj. roused to anger: she gets mad when you wake her up so early

magazine [.mægəˈzi:n] – n. product consisting of a paperback periodic publication as a physical object: tripped over a pile of magazines

magic [ˈmædʒik] – n. any art that invokes supernatural powers

magical [ˈmædʒikəl] – adj. possessing or using or characteristic of or appropriate to supernatural powers: a magical spell

magistrate [ˈmædʒistreit] – n. a lay judge or civil authority who administers the law (especially one who conducts a court dealing with minor offenses)

magnetic [mægˈnetik] – adj. having the properties of a magnet; i.e. of attracting iron or steel: the hard disk is covered with a thin coat of magnetic material

magnificent [mægˈnifisnt] – adj. characterized by grandeur: magnificent cathedrals

magnitude [ˈmægnitju:d] – n. the property of relative size or extent (whether large or small): they tried to predict the magnitude of the explosion

maid [meid] – n. an unmarried girl (especially a virgin)

mail [meil] – n. the bags of letters and packages that are transported by the postal service

main [mein] – adj. most important element: the main doors were of solid glass

mainframe  – n. a large digital computer serving 100-400 users and occupying a special air-conditioned room

mainland [ˈmeinlənd] – n. the main land mass of a country or continent; as distinguished from an island or peninsula

mainly [ˈmeinli] – adv. for the most part: he is mainly interested in butterflies

mainstream [ˈmeinstri:m] – n. the prevailing current of thought: his thinking was in the American mainstream

maintain [meinˈtein] – v. keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g.,

maintenance [ˈmeintinəns] – n. activity involved in maintaining something in good working order

majesty [ˈmædʒisti] – n. impressiveness in scale or proportion

major [ˈmeidʒə] – adj. of greater importance or stature or rank: a major artist

majority [məˈdʒɔ:riti] – n. the property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part: the majority of his customers prefer it

make [meik] – v. engage in: make love, not war

maker [ˈmeikə] – n. terms referring to the Judeo-Christian God

make-up [ˈmeikʌp] – n. an event that is substituted for a previously cancelled event

making [ˈmeikiŋ] – n. the act that results in something coming to be: the making of measurements

male [meil] – n. a person who belongs to the sex that cannot have babies

mammal [ˈmæməl] – n. any warm-blooded vertebrate having the skin more or less covered with hair; young are born alive except for the small subclass of monotremes and nourished with milk

man [mæn] – n. someone who serves in the armed forces; a member of a military force

manage [ˈmænidʒ] – v. be successful; achieve a goal: I managed to carry the box upstairs

management [ˈmænidʒmənt] – n. those in charge of running a business

manager [ˈmænidʒə] – n. someone who controls resources and expenditures

managerial [.mænəˈdʒiəriəl] – adj. of or relating to the function or responsibility or activity of management

mandatory [ˈmændətəri] – n. the recipient of a mandate

manifest [ˈmænifest] – v. provide evidence for; stand as proof of; show by one’s behavior, attitude, or external attributes: The buildings in Rome manifest a high level of architectural sophistication

manifestation [.mænifesˈteiʃən] – n. a clear appearance: a manifestation of great emotion

manipulate [məˈnipjuleit] – v. influence or control shrewdly or deviously: He manipulated public opinion in his favor

manipulation [mə.nipjuˈleiʃən] – n. exerting shrewd or devious influence especially for one’s own advantage: his manipulation of his friends was scandalous

mankind [mænˈkaind] – n. all of the living human inhabitants of the earth: she always used `humankind’ because `mankind’ seemed to slight the women

manner [ˈmænə] – n. how something is done or how it happens: her dignified manner

manor [ˈmænə] – n. the landed estate of a lord (including the house on it)

manpower [ˈmæn.pauə] – n. the force of workers available

manual [ˈmænjuəl] – adj. of or relating to the hands: manual dexterity

manufacture [.mænjuˈfæktʃə] – v. put together out of artificial or natural components or parts: They manufacture small toys

manufacturer [.mænjuˈfæktʃərə] – n. someone who manufactures something

manufacturing  – n. the act of making something (a product) from raw materials: manufacturing is vital to Great Britain

manuscript [ˈmænjuskript] – n. the form of a literary work submitted for publication

map [mæp] – v. locate within a specific region of a chromosome in relation to known DNA or gene sequences: map the genes

marathon  – n. any long and arduous undertaking

marble [ˈmɑ:bl] – n. a hard crystalline metamorphic rock that takes a high polish; used for sculpture and as building material

march  – n. the month following February and preceding April

margin [ˈmɑ:dʒin] – n. the boundary line or the area immediately inside the boundary

marginal [ˈmɑ:dʒinəl] – adj. at or constituting a border or edge: the marginal strip of beach

marine [məˈri:n] – adj. of or relating to the sea: marine explorations

mark [mɑ:k] – n. a distinguishing symbol: the owner’s mark was on all the sheep

marked [mɑ:kt] – adj. singled out for notice or especially for a dire fate: a marked man

marker  – n. a distinguishing symbol

market [ˈmɑ:kit] – n. the world of commercial activity where goods and services are bought and sold: without competition there would be no market

marketing [ˈmɑ:kitiŋ] – n. the exchange of goods for an agreed sum of money

marriage [ˈmæridʒ] – n. two people who are married to each other: his second marriage was happier than the first

married [ˈmærid] – adj. joined in matrimony: a married man

marry [ˈmæri] – v. perform a marriage ceremony

marsh [mɑ:ʃ] – n. low-lying wet land with grassy vegetation; usually is a transition zone between land and water: thousands of acres of marshland

marvellous  – adj. extraordinarily good or great ; used especially as intensifiers

mask [mɑ:sk] – v. hide under a false appearance: He masked his disappointment

mass [mæs] – n. the property of a body that causes it to have weight in a gravitational field

massive [ˈmæsiv] – adj. imposing in size or bulk or solidity: massive oak doors

master [ˈmɑ:stə] – n. an artist of consummate skill: a master of the violin

match [mætʃ] – v. be compatible, similar or consistent; coincide in their characteristics: The suspect’s fingerprints don’t match those on the gun

mate [meit] – n. a fellow member of a team: it was his first start against his former teammates

material [məˈtiəriəl] – adj. concerned with worldly rather than spiritual interests: material possessions

mathematical [.mæθiˈmætikəl] – adj. relating to or having ability to think in or work with numbers: a mathematical whiz

mathematics [.mæθiˈmætiks] – n. a science (or group of related sciences) dealing with the logic of quantity and shape and arrangement

matrix [ˈmeitriks] – n. (geology) amass of fine-grained rock in which fossils, crystals, or gems are embedded

matter [ˈmætə] – n. a vaguely specified concern: several matters to attend to

mature [məˈtjuə] – v. develop and work out fully in one’s mind: I need to mature my thoughts

maturity [məˈtjuəriti] – n. the period of time in your life after your physical growth has stopped and you are fully developed

maximum [ˈmæksiməm] – n. the largest possible quantity

may [mei, me] – n. the month following April and preceding June

maybe [ˈmeibi] – adv. by chance

mayor [ˈmɛ] – n. the head of a city government

meadow [ˈmedəu] – n. a field where grass or alfalfa are grown to be made into hay

meal [mi:l] – n. any of the occasions for eating food that occur by custom or habit at more or less fixed times

mean [mi:n] – adj. approximating the statistical norm or average or expected value: the mean annual rainfall

meaning [ˈmi:niŋ] – n. the message that is intended or expressed or signified: what is the meaning of this sentence

meaningful [ˈmi:niŋfəl] – adj. having a meaning or purpose: a meaningful explanation

means [mi:nz] – n. how a result is obtained or an end is achieved: a means of control

meantime [ˈmi:nˈtaim] – n. the time between one event, process, or period and another

meanwhile [ˈmi:nˈwail] – adv. at the same time but in another place: meanwhile, back at the ranch…

measure [ˈmeʒə] – n. any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal: the situation called for strong measures

measurement [ˈmeʒəmənt] – n. the act or process of assigning numbers to phenomena according to a rule: the measurements were carefully done

meat [mi:t] – n. the flesh of animals (including fishes and birds and snails) used as food

mechanical [miˈkænikəl] – adj. relating to or concerned with machinery or tools: mechanical arts

mechanism [ˈmekənizəm] – n. the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction: he determined unique mechanisms for the photochemical reactions

medal [ˈmedl] – n. an award for winning a championship or commemorating some other event

medical [ˈmedikəl] – adj. requiring or amenable to treatment by medicine especially as opposed to surgery: medical treatment

medicine [ˈmedisin] – n. the branches of medical science that deal with nonsurgical techniques

medieval [mediˈi:vəl] – adj. relating to or belonging to the Middle Ages

medium [ˈmi:diəm] – n. a means or instrumentality for storing or communicating information

meet [mi:t] – v. get together socially or for a specific purpose

melt [melt] – v. reduce or cause to be reduced from a solid to a liquid state, usually by heating: melt butter

member [ˈmembə] – n. anything that belongs to a set or class: snakes are members of the class Reptilia

membership [ˈmembəʃip] – n. the state of being a member

membrane [ˈmembrein] – n. a thin pliable sheet of material

memorable [ˈmemərəbl] – adj. worth remembering

memorandum [.meməˈrændəm] – n. a written proposal or reminder

memorial [miˈmɔ:riəl] – n. a recognition of meritorious service

memory [ˈmeməri] – n. the cognitive processes whereby past experience is remembered: he can do it from memory

mental [ˈmentl] – adj. involving the mind or an intellectual process: mental images of happy times

mentally  – adv. in your mind: he suffered mentally

mention [ˈmenʃən] – n. a remark that calls attention to something or someone: she made frequent mention of her promotion

menu [ˈmenju:] – n. a list of dishes available at a restaurant: the menu was in French

merchant [ˈmə:tʃənt] – n. a businessperson engaged in retail trade

mercy [ˈmə:si] – n. leniency and compassion shown toward offenders by a person or agency charged with administering justice: he threw himself on the mercy of the court

mere [miə] – adj. being nothing more than specified: a mere child

merely [ˈmiəli] – adv. and nothing more: I was merely asking

merge [mə:dʒ] – v. become one: the cells merge

merger [mə:dʒə] – n. an occurrence that involves the production of a union

merit [ˈmerit] – n. any admirable quality or attribute: work of great merit

mess [mes] – n. a state of confusion and disorderliness: the house was a mess

message [ˈmesidʒ] – n. a communication (usually brief) that is written or spoken or signaled: he sent a three-word message

metal [ˈmetl] – n. any of several chemical elements that are usually shiny solids that conduct heat or electricity and can be formed into sheets etc.

metaphor [ˈmetəfə] – n. a figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity

method [ˈmeθəd] – n. a way of doing something, especially a systematic way; implies an orderly logical arrangement (usually in steps)

methodology [meθəˈdɔlədʒi] – n. the branch of philosophy that analyzes the principles and procedures of inquiry in a particular discipline

metre  – n. the basic unit of length adopted under the Systeme International d’Unites (approximately 1.094 yards)

metropolitan [.metrəˈpɔlitən] – n. a person who lives in a metropolis

microphone [ˈmaikrəfəun] – n. device for converting sound waves into electrical energy

mid  – adj. used in combination to denote the middle: midmorning

middle [ˈmidl] – n. an area that is approximately central within some larger region

middle-class  – adj. occupying a socioeconomic position intermediate between those of the lower classes and the wealthy

midfield  – n. (sports) the middle part of a playing field (as in football or lacrosse)

midnight [ˈmidnait] – n. 12 o’clock at night; the middle of the night: young children should not be allowed to stay up until midnight

mighty [ˈmaiti] – adj. having or showing great strength or force or intensity: struck a mighty blow

migration [maiˈgreiʃən] – n. the movement of persons from one country or locality to another

mild [maild] – adj. moderate in type or degree or effect or force; far from extreme: a mild winter storm

mile [mail] – n. a unit of length equal to 1,760 yards or 5,280 feet; exactly 1609.344 meters

military [ˈmilitəri] – adj. of or relating to the study of the principles of warfare: military law

milk [milk] – n. a white nutritious liquid secreted by mammals and used as food by human beings

mill [mil] – n. a plant consisting of one or more buildings with facilities for manufacturing

mind [maind] – n. that which is responsible for one’s thoughts and feelings; the seat of the faculty of reason: his mind wandered

mine [main] – n. explosive device that explodes on contact; designed to destroy vehicles or ships or to kill or maim personnel

miner [ˈmainə] – n. laborer who works in a mine

mineral [ˈminərəl] – adj. composed of matter other than plant or animal: the inorganic mineral world

minimal [ˈminiməl] – adj. the least possible: needed to enforce minimal standards

minimise  – v. represent as less significant or important

minimum [ˈminiməm] – n. the smallest possible quantity

mining  – n. the act of extracting ores or coal etc from the earth

minister [ˈministə] – n. a person authorized to conduct religious worship: clergymen are usually called ministers in Protestant churches

ministerial  – adj. of or relating to a government minister or ministry: ministerial decree

ministry [ˈministri] – n. building where the business of a government department is transacted

minor [ˈmainə] – adj. of lesser importance or stature or rank: a minor poet

minority [maiˈnɔ:riti] – n. a group of people who differ racially or politically from a larger group of which it is a part

minute [ˈminit,maiˈnju:t] – n. a unit of time equal to 60 seconds or 1/60th of an hour: he ran a 4 minute mile

miracle [ˈmirəkl] – n. any amazing or wonderful occurrence

mirror [ˈmirə] – n. polished surface that forms images by reflecting light

miserable [ˈmizərəbl] – adj. deserving or inciting pity: miserable victims of war

misery [ˈmizəri] – n. a feeling of intense unhappiness: she was exhausted by her misery and grief

Miss [mis] – n. a form of address for an unmarried woman

missile [ˈmisail] – n. a rocket carrying a warhead of conventional or nuclear explosives; may be ballistic or directed by remote control

missing [ˈmisiŋ] – adj. not able to be found: missing in action

mission [ˈmiʃən] – n. an operation that is assigned by a higher headquarters: the planes were on a bombing mission

mist [mist] – v. make less visible or unclear

mistake [miˈsteik] – n. a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention: he made a bad mistake

mistress [ˈmistris] – n. an adulterous woman; a woman who has an ongoing extramarital sexual relationship with a man

mix [miks] – v. open (a place) to members of all races and ethnic groups

mixture [ˈmikstʃə] – n. any foodstuff made by combining different ingredients: he drank a mixture of beer and lemonade

moan [məun] – n. an utterance expressing pain or disapproval

mobile [ˈməubail] – adj. migratory: a restless mobile society

mobility [məuˈbiliti] – n. the quality of moving freely

mode [məud] – n. how something is done or how it happens: their nomadic mode of existence

model [ˈmɔdl] – n. a hypothetical description of a complex entity or process: the computer program was based on a model of the circulatory and respiratory systems

moderate [ˈmɔdəreit,ˈmɔdərit] – v. preside over: John moderated the discussion

modern [ˈmɔdən] – adj. relating to a recently developed fashion or style: their offices are in a modern skyscraper

modest [ˈmɔdist] – adj. marked by simplicity; having a humble opinion of yourself: a modest apartment

modification [.mɔdifiˈkeiʃən] – n. the act of making something different (as e.g. the size of a garment)

modify [ˈmɔdifai] – v. make less severe or harsh or extreme: please modify this letter to make it more polite

module [ˈmɔdju:l] – n. one of the inherent cognitive or perceptual powers of the mind

mole  – n. a spy who works against enemy espionage

molecular [məuˈlekjulə] – adj. relating to simple or elementary organization: proceed by more and more detailed analysis to the molecular facts of perception

molecule [ˈmɔlikju:l] – n. (physics and chemistry) the simplest structural unit of an element or compound

moment [ˈməumənt] – n. a particular point in time: the moment he arrived the party began

momentum [məuˈmentəm] – n. an impelling force or strength: the car’s momentum carried it off the road

monarch [ˈmɔnək] – n. a nation’s ruler or head of state usually by hereditary right

monarchy [ˈmɔnəki] – n. an autocracy governed by a monarch who usually inherits the authority

monastery [ˈmɔnəstri] – n. the residence of a religious community

monetary [ˈmʌnə.teri] – adj. relating to or involving money: monetary rewards

money [ˈmʌni] – n. the most common medium of exchange; functions as legal tender: we tried to collect the money he owed us

monitor [ˈmɔnitə] – n. someone who supervises (an examination)

monk [mʌŋk] – n. a male religious living in a cloister and devoting himself to contemplation and prayer and work

monkey [ˈmʌŋki] – n. any of various long-tailed primates (excluding the prosimians)

monopoly [məˈnɔpəli] – n. (economics) a market in which there are many buyers but only one seller: a monopoly on silver

monster [ˈmɔnstə] – n. an imaginary creature usually having various human and animal parts

month [mʌnθ] – n. one of the twelve divisions of the calendar year: he paid the bill last month

monthly [ˈmʌnθli] – n. a periodical that is published every month (or 12 issues per year)

monument [ˈmɔnjumənt] – n. a structure erected to commemorate persons or events

mood [mu:d] – n. a characteristic (habitual or relatively temporary) state of feeling

moon [mu:n] – n. the natural satellite of the Earth: men first stepped on the moon in 1969

moor [muə] – v. secure in or as if in a berth or dock

moral [ˈmɔrəl] – adj. psychological rather than physical or tangible in effect: a moral victory

morale [mɔˈrɑ:l] – n. a state of individual psychological well-being based upon a sense of confidence and usefulness and purpose

morality [məˈræliti] – n. concern with the distinction between good and evil or right and wrong; right or good conduct

more [mɔ:] – adj. (comparative of `much’ used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree: more land

moreover [mɔ:rˈəuvə] – adv. in addition: the cellar was dark; moreover, mice nested there

morning [ˈmɔ:niŋ] – n. the time period between dawn and noon: I spent the morning running errands

mortality  – n. the ratio of deaths in an area to the population of that area; expressed per 1000 per year

mortgage [ˈmɔ:gidʒ] – n. a conditional conveyance of property as security for the repayment of a loan

mosaic [mɔˈzeiik] – n. art consisting of a design made of small pieces of colored stone or glass

most [məust] – adv. used to form the superlative: the king cobra is the most dangerous snake

mostly [ˈməustli] – adv. in large part; mainly or chiefly

mother [ˈmʌðə] – n. a term of address for an elderly woman

motif [məuˈti:f] – n. a design or figure that consists of recurring shapes or colors, as in architecture or decoration

motion [ˈməuʃən] – n. the use of movements (especially of the hands) to communicate familiar or prearranged signals

motivate [ˈməutiveit] – v. give an incentive for action

motivation [.məutiˈveiʃən] – n. the condition of being motivated: his motivation was at a high level

motive [ˈməutiv] – n. a theme that is repeated or elaborated in a piece of music

motor [ˈməutə] – n. a nonspecific agent that imparts motion: happiness is the aim of all men and the motor of all action

motorist [ˈməutərist] – n. someone who drives (or travels in) an automobile

motorway [ˈməʊtəwei] – n. a broad highway designed for high-speed traffic

mould [məuld] – n. loose soil rich in organic matter

mount [maunt] – v. attach to a support: They mounted the aerator on a floating

mountain [ˈmauntin] – n. a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill

mouse [maus] – n. a swollen bruise caused by a blow to the eye

mouth [mauθ] – n. the opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge: he stuffed his mouth with candy

move [mu:v] – v. change residence, affiliation, or place of employment: We moved from Idaho to Nebraska

movement [ˈmu:vmənt] – n. a change of position that does not entail a change of location: movement is a sign of life

movie [ˈmu:vi] – n. a form of entertainment that enacts a story by sound and a sequence of images giving the illusion of continuous movement: they went to a movie every Saturday night

moving  – adj. in motion: a constantly moving crowd

much [mʌtʃ] – adv. to a great degree or extent: she’s much better now

mud [mʌd] – n. water soaked soil; soft wet earth

mug [mʌg] – n. a person who is gullible and easy to take advantage of

multimedia  – n. transmission that combine media of communication (text and graphics and sound etc.)

multiple [ˈmʌltipl] – n. the product of a quantity by an integer: 36 is a multiple of 9

multiply [ˈmʌltiplai] – v. combine or increase by multiplication: He managed to multiply his profits

municipal [mju:ˈnisipəl] – adj. relating or belonging to or characteristic of a municipality: municipal government

murder [ˈmə:də] – v. kill intentionally and with premeditation: The mafia boss ordered his enemies murdered

murderer [ˈmə:dərə] – n. a criminal who commits homicide (who performs the unlawful premeditated killing of another human being)

murmur [ˈmə:mə] – n. a low continuous indistinct sound; often accompanied by movement of the lips without the production of articulate speech

muscle [ˈmʌsl] – n. one of the contractile organs of the body

museum [mju:ˈziəm] – n. a depository for collecting and displaying objects having scientific or historical or artistic value

mushroom [ˈmʌʃrum] – n. common name for an edible agaric (contrasting with the inedible toadstool)

music [ˈmju:zik] – n. any agreeable (pleasing and harmonious) sounds: he fell asleep to the music of the wind chimes

musical [ˈmju:zikəl] – adj. talented in or devoted to music: comes from a very musical family

musician [mju:ˈziʃən] – n. artist who composes or conducts music as a profession

mutation [mju:ˈteiʃən] – n. (biology) an organism that has characteristics resulting from chromosomal alteration

mutter [ˈmʌtə] – n. a low continuous indistinct sound; often accompanied by movement of the lips without the production of articulate speech

mutual [ˈmju:tʃuəl] – adj. common to or shared by two or more parties: the mutual interests of management and labor

mysterious [misˈtiəriəs] – adj. of an obscure nature: the new insurance policy is written without cryptic or mysterious terms

mystery [ˈmistəri] – n. something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained: how it got out is a mystery

myth [miθ] – n. a traditional story accepted as history; serves to explain the world view of a people

nail [neil] – v. take into custody

naked [ˈneikid] – adj. completely unclothed: naked from the waist up

name [neim] – v. charge with a function; charge to be: She was named Head of the Committee

namely [ˈneimli] – adv. as follows

narrative [ˈnærətiv] – adj. consisting of or characterized by the telling of a story: narrative poetry

narrow [ˈnærəu] – adj. not wide: a narrow bridge

nasty [ˈnɑ:sti] – adj. offensive or even (of persons) malicious: in a nasty mood

nation [ˈneiʃən] – n. a politically organized body of people under a single government: African nations

national [ˈnæʃənəl] – adj. limited to or in the interests of a particular nation: national interests

nationalism  – n. love of country and willingness to sacrifice for it: British nationalism was in the air and patriotic sentiments ran high

nationalist  – n. one who loves and defends his or her country

nationality [.næʃəˈnæliti] – n. the status of belonging to a particular nation by birth or naturalization

nationally  – adv. extending throughout an entire nation: nationally advertised

native [ˈneitiv] – adj. characteristic of or existing by virtue of geographic origin: the native North American sugar maple

natural [ˈnætʃərəl] – adj. existing in or produced by nature; not artificial or imitation: a natural pearl

naturally [ˈnætʃərəli] – adv. as might be expected: naturally, the lawyer sent us a huge bill

nature [ˈneitʃə] – n. the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized: it is the nature of fire to burn

naval [ˈneivəl] – adj. connected with or belonging to or used in a navy: naval history

navy [ˈneivi] – n. an organization of military vessels belonging to a country and available for sea warfare

near [niə] – adj. not far distant in time or space or degree or circumstances: near neighbors

nearby [ˈniəbai] – adj. close at hand: the nearby towns

nearly [ˈniəli] – adv. (of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but: he nearly fainted

neat [ni:t] – adj. clean or organized: her neat dress

neatly  – adv. with neatness: she put the slippers under the bed neatly

necessarily [ˈnesəserili] – adv. in an essential manner: such expenses are necessarily incurred

necessary [ˈnesə.səri] – adj. absolutely essential

necessity [niˈsesiti] – n. the condition of being essential or indispensable

neck [nek] – n. a narrow elongated projecting strip of land

need [ni:d] – n. a condition requiring relief: she satisfied his need for affection

needle [ˈni:dl] – n. the leaf of a conifer

negative [ˈnegətiv] – adj. expressing or consisting of a negation or refusal or denial

neglect [niˈglekt] – n. lack of attention and due care

negligence [ˈneglidʒəns] – n. failure to act with the prudence that a reasonable person would exercise under the same circumstances

negotiate [niˈgəuʃieit] – v. discuss the terms of an arrangement: They negotiated the sale of the house

negotiation [ni.gəuʃiˈeiʃən] – n. a discussion intended to produce an agreement: the buyout negotiation lasted several days

neighbour  – n. a person who lives (or is located) near another

neighbourhood  – n. a surrounding or nearby region

neither [ˈni:ðə] – adj. not either; not one or the other

nephew [ˈnefju:] – n. a son of your brother or sister

nerve [nə:v] – n. the courage to carry on

nervous [ˈnə:vəs] – adj. easily agitated: a nervous addict

nest [nest] – n. a structure in which animals lay eggs or give birth to their young

net [net] – n. the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time (including depreciation and other non-cash expenses)

network [ˈnetwə:k] – n. an interconnected system of things or people: he owned a network of shops

neutral [ˈnju:trəl] – adj. having no personal preference: a neutral observer

never [ˈnevə] – adv. not ever; at no time in the past or future: I have never been to China

nevertheless [.nevəðəˈles] – adv. despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession): while we disliked each other, nevertheless we agreed

new [nju:] – adj. not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered: a new law

newcomer  – n. any new participant in some activity

newly [ˈnju:li] – adv. very recently: they are newly married

news [nju:z] – n. information about recent and important events: they awaited news of the outcome

newspaper [ˈnju:z.peipə] – n. a daily or weekly publication on folded sheets; contains news and articles and advertisements: he read his newspaper at breakfast

next [ˈnekst] – adj. immediately following in time or order: next in line

nice [nais] – adj. pleasant or pleasing or agreeable in nature or appearance: what a nice fellow you are and we all thought you so nasty

nicely  – adv. in a nice way: a nicely painted house

night [nait] – n. the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

nightmare [ˈnait.mɛə] – n. a situation resembling a terrifying dream

nitrogen [ˈnaitrədʒən] – n. a common nonmetallic element that is normally a colorless odorless tasteless inert diatomic gas; constitutes 78 percent of the atmosphere by volume; a constituent of all living tissues

no [nəu] – adv. referring to the degree to which a certain quality is present: he was no heavier than a child

noble [ˈnəubl] – adj. impressive in appearance: a noble tree

nod [nɔd] – v. lower and raise the head, as to indicate assent or agreement or confirmation: The teacher nodded when the student gave the right answer

node  – n. a connecting point at which several lines come together

noise [nɔiz] – n. sound of any kind (especially unintelligible or dissonant sound): he enjoyed the street noises

noisy [ˈnɔizi] – adj. full of or characterized by loud and nonmusical sounds: a noisy cafeteria

nominal [ˈnɔminəl] – adj. relating to or constituting or bearing or giving a name: the Russian system of nominal brevity

nominate [ˈnɔmineit] – v. propose as a candidate for some honor

nomination [nɔmiˈneiʃən] – n. the act of officially naming a candidate: the Republican nomination for Governor

nonetheless [.nʌnðəˈles] – adv. despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)

nonsense [ˈnɔnsens] – n. a message that seems to convey no meaning

norm [nɔ:m] – n. a standard or model or pattern regarded as typical: the current middle-class norm of two children per family

normal [ˈnɔ:məl] – adj. in accordance with scientific laws

normally [ˈnɔ:məli] – adv. under normal conditions

north [nɔ:θ] – n. the cardinal compass point that is at 0 or 360 degrees

northern [ˈnɔ:ðən] – adj. situated in or oriented toward the north: the northern suburbs

nose [nəuz] – n. the organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals: he has a cold in the nose

not [nɔt] – adv. negation of a word or group of words: he does not speak French

notable [ˈnəutəbl] – adj. worthy of notice

notably [ˈnəʊtbəli] – adv. especially; in particular: notably in the social sciences, the professors teach too much

note [nəut] – n. a brief written record: he made a note of the appointment

notebook [ˈnəutbuk] – n. a small compact portable computer

notice [ˈnəutis] – n. an announcement containing information about an event: you didn’t give me enough notice

noticeable [ˈnəutisəbl] – adj. capable or worthy of being perceived: noticeable shadows under her eyes

notify [ˈnəutifai] – v. inform (somebody) of something

notion [ˈnəuʃən] – n. a vague idea in which some confidence is placed

notorious [nəuˈtɔ:riəs] – adj. known widely and usually unfavorably: a notorious gangster

noun [naun] – n. a content word that can be used to refer to a person, place, thing, quality, or action

novel [ˈnɔvəl] – n. an extended fictional work in prose; usually in the form of a story

novelist [ˈnɔvəlist] – n. one who writes novels

now [nau] – adv. in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events: President Kennedy now calls in the National Guard

nowadays [ˈnauədeiz] – n. the period of time that is happening now; any continuous stretch of time including the moment of speech

nowhere [ˈnəuwɛə] – n. an insignificant place: he came out of nowhere

nuclear [ˈnju:kliə] – adj. (weapons) deriving destructive energy from the release of atomic energy: nuclear war

nucleus [ˈnju:kliəs] – n. a part of the cell containing DNA and RNA and responsible for growth and reproduction

nuisance [ˈnju:sns] – n. a bothersome annoying person

number [ˈnʌmbə] – n. the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals: he had a number of chores to do

numerous [ˈnju:mərəs] – adj. amounting to a large indefinite number: numerous times

nun [nʌn] – n. a woman religious

nurse [nə:s] – v. try to cure by special care of treatment, of an illness or injury: He nursed his cold with Chinese herbs

nursery [ˈnə:səri] – n. a child’s room for a baby

nursing  – n. the work of caring for the sick or injured or infirm

nut [nʌt] – n. usually large hard-shelled seed

oak [əuk] – n. a deciduous tree of the genus Quercus; has acorns and lobed leaves: great oaks grow from little acorns

obey [əˈbei] – v. be obedient to

object [əbˈdʒekt,ˈɔbdʒikt] – n. a tangible and visible entity; an entity that can cast a shadow: it was full of rackets, balls and other objects

objection [əbˈdʒekʃən] – n. the act of expressing earnest opposition or protest

objective [əbˈdʒektiv] – adj. undistorted by emotion or personal bias; based on observable phenomena: an objective appraisal

obligation [.ɔbliˈgeiʃən] – n. the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force: every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty

oblige [əˈblaidʒ] – v. force somebody to do something

observation [.ɔbzəˈveiʃən] – n. the act of making and recording a measurement

observe [əbˈzə:v] – v. discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

observer [əbˈzə:və] – n. a person who becomes aware (of things or events) through the senses

obstacle [ˈɔbstəkl] – n. something immaterial that stands in the way and must be circumvented or surmounted: lack of imagination is an obstacle to one’s advancement

obtain [əbˈtein] – v. come into possession of: How did you obtain the visa?

obvious [ˈɔbviəs] – adj. easily perceived by the senses or grasped by the mind: obvious errors

obviously [ˈɔbviəsli] – adv. unmistakably (`plain’ is often used informally for `plainly’): the answer is obviously wrong

occasion [əˈkeiʒən] – n. an event that occurs at a critical time: it was needed only on special occasions

occasional [əˈkeiʒənəl] – adj. occurring from time to time: took an occasional glass of wine

occasionally [əˈkeiʒənəli] – adv. now and then or here and there: he was arrogant and occasionally callous

occupation [.ɔkjuˈpeiʃən] – n. the principal activity in your life that you do to earn money

occupational  – adj. of or relating to the activity or business for which you are trained: occupational hazard

occupy [ˈɔkjupai] – v. keep busy with

occur [əˈkə:] – v. come to pass: Nothing occurred that seemed important

occurrence [əˈkʌrəns] – n. an event that happens

ocean [ˈəuʃən] – n. a large body of water constituting a principal part of the hydrosphere

odd [ɔd] – adj. not divisible by two

odour  – n. the sensation that results when olfactory receptors in the nose are stimulated by particular chemicals in gaseous form

off [ɔ:f] – adj. not in operation or operational: the oven is off

offence [əˈfens] – n. the action of attacking an enemy

offend [əˈfend] – v. cause to feel resentment or indignation: Her tactless remark offended me

offender  – n. a person who transgresses moral or civil law

offensive [əˈfensiv] – adj. for the purpose of attack rather than defense: offensive weapons

offer [ˈɔ:fə] – v. make available or accessible, provide or furnish: The conference center offers a health spa

offering [ˈɔfəriŋ] – n. money contributed to a religious organization

office [ˈɔ:fis] – n. place of business where professional or clerical duties are performed: he rented an office in the new building

officer [ˈɔ:fis] – n. any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command: an officer is responsible for the lives of his men

official [əˈfiʃəl] – adj. of or relating to an office: official privileges

officially  – adv. with official authorization

offset [ˈɔf.set] – n. the time at which something is supposed to begin

offspring [ˈɔ:fspriŋ] – n. the immediate descendants of a person: she was the mother of many offspring

often [ˈɔ:fən] – adv. many times at short intervals: we often met over a cup of coffee

oil [ɔil] – n. a slippery or viscous liquid or liquefiable substance not miscible with water

okay [əʊˈkei] – n. an endorsement

old [əuld] – adj. (used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age: his mother is very old

old-fashioned [ˈəuldˈfeʃənd] – adj. out of fashion

omission [əuˈmiʃən] – n. a mistake resulting from neglect

omit [əuˈmit] – v. leave undone or leave out

on [ɔn] – adj. (of events) planned or scheduled: the picnic is on, rain or shine

once [wʌns] – adv. as soon as: once we are home, we can rest

onion [ˈʌnjən] – n. bulbous plant having hollow leaves cultivated worldwide for its rounded edible bulb

only [ˈəunli] – adv. and nothing more: he was only a child

onwards  – adv. in a forward direction

open [ˈəupən] – adj. affording unobstructed entrance and exit; not shut or closed: an open door

opening [ˈəupəniŋ] – n. a ceremony accompanying the start of some enterprise

openly  – adv. in an open way: he openly flaunted his affection for his sister

opera [ˈɔpərə] – n. a drama set to music; consists of singing with orchestral accompaniment and an orchestral overture and interludes

operate [ˈɔpəreit] – v. direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.

operating  – adj. being in effect or operation: the company had several operating divisions

operation [.ɔpəˈreiʃən] – n. a business especially one run on a large scale: a large-scale farming operation

operational [.ɔpəˈreiʃənəl] – adj. pertaining to a process or series of actions for achieving a result: operational difficulties

operator [ˈɔpə.reitə] – n. an agent that operates some apparatus or machine: the operator of the switchboard

opinion [əˈpinjən] – n. a personal belief or judgment that is not founded on proof or certainty: my opinion differs from yours

opponent [əˈpəunənt] – n. a contestant that you are matched against

opportunity [.ɔpəˈtju:niti] – n. a possibility due to a favorable combination of circumstances: the holiday gave us the opportunity to visit Washington

oppose [əˈpəuz] – v. fight against or resist strongly: The senator said he would oppose the bill

opposed [əˈpəuzd] – adj. being in opposition or having an opponent: two bitterly opposed schools of thought

opposite [ˈɔpəzit] – adj. being directly across from each other; facing: And I on the opposite shore will be, ready to ride and spread the alarm

opposition [.ɔpəˈziʃən] – n. the relation between opposed entities

opt [ɔpt] – v. select as an alternative over another: She opted for the job on the East coast

optical [ˈɔptikəl] – adj. relating to or using sight: an optical illusion

optimism [ˈɔptimizəm] – n. a general disposition to expect the best in all things

optimistic [.ɔptiˈmistik] – adj. expecting the best in this best of all possible worlds: in an optimistic mood

option [ˈɔpʃən] – n. one of a number of things from which only one can be chosen: what option did I have?

optional [ˈɔpʃənl] – adj. possible but not necessary; left to personal choice

oral [ˈɔ:rəl] – adj. using speech rather than writing: an oral tradition

orange [ˈɔ:rindʒ] – n. a river in South Africa that flows generally westward to the Atlantic Ocean

orbit [ˈɔ:bit] – n. the (usually elliptical) path described by one celestial body in its revolution about another: he plotted the orbit of the moon

orchestra [ˈɔ:kistrə] – n. a musical organization consisting of a group of instrumentalists including string players

order [ˈɔ:də] – n. (often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed: the British ships dropped anchor and waited for orders from London

ordinary [ˈɔ:dnri] – n. a judge of a probate court

organ [ˈɔ:gən] – n. a fully differentiated structural and functional unit in an animal that is specialized for some particular function

organic [ɔ:ˈgænik] – adj. relating or belonging to the class of chemical compounds having a carbon basis: hydrocarbons are organic compounds

organisation  – n. the persons (or committees or departments etc.) who make up a body for the purpose of administering something

organisational  – adj. of or relating to an organization

organise  – v. create (as an entity)

organiser  – n. someone who enlists workers to join a union

organism [ˈɔ:gənizəm] – n. a living thing that has (or can develop) the ability to act or function independently

organization [.ɔ:gənaiˈzeiʃən] – n. a group of people who work together

organizational [.ɔgənaiˈzeiʃənəl] – adj. of or relating to an organization: organizational structure

organize [ˈɔ:gənaiz] – v. create (as an entity)

orientation [.ɔ:rienˈteiʃən] – n. an integrated set of attitudes and beliefs

origin [ˈɔridʒin] – n. the place where something begins, where it springs into being: Jupiter was the origin of the radiation

original [əˈridʒənl] – adj. preceding all others in time or being as first made or performed: the original inhabitants of the Americas

originally [əˈridʒənəli] – adv. with reference to the origin or beginning

originate [əˈridʒineit] – v. come into existence; take on form or shape: A new religious movement originated in that country

orthodox [ˈɔ:θədɔks] – adj. of or pertaining to or characteristic of Judaism

other [ˈʌðə] – adj. not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied: today isn’t any other day

otherwise [ˈʌðəwaiz] – adv. in another and different manner: she thought otherwise

out [aut] – adj. not allowed to continue to bat or run: he was tagged out at second on a close play

outbreak [ˈautbreik] – n. a sudden violent spontaneous occurrence (usually of some undesirable condition): the outbreak of hostilities

outcome [ˈautkʌm] – n. something that results

outdoor [ˈautdɔ:] – adj. located, suited for, or taking place in the open air: outdoor clothes

outer [ˈautə] – adj. located outside: outer reality

outfit [ˈautfit] – n. any cohesive unit such as a military company

outlet [ˈautlet] – n. a place of business for retailing goods

outline [ˈautlain] – n. the line that appears to bound an object

outlook [ˈautluk] – n. a habitual or characteristic mental attitude that determines how you will interpret and respond to situations

output [ˈautput] – n. final product; the things produced

outset [ˈautset] – n. the time at which something is supposed to begin

outside [ˈautˈsaid] – adj. relating to or being on or near the outer side or limit: an outside margin

outsider [ˈ autˈsaidə] – n. someone who is excluded from or is not a member of a group

outstanding [autˈstændiŋ] – adj. distinguished from others in excellence: did outstanding work in human relations

oven [ˈʌvən] – n. kitchen appliance used for baking or roasting

over [ˈəuvə] – adv. at or to a point across intervening space etc.: come over and see us some time

overall [ˈəuvərɔ:l] – n. (usually plural) work clothing consisting of denim trousers (usually with a bib and shoulder straps)

overcome [.əuvəˈkʌm] – v. get on top of; deal with successfully

overlook [.əuvəˈluk] – v. look past, fail to notice

overnight [ˈəuvəˈnait] – adv. during or for the length of one night: the fish marinates overnight

overseas [ˈəuvəˈsi:z] – adj. in a foreign country: overseas markets

overtake [.əuvəˈteik] – v. travel past

overview  – n. a general summary of a subject: the treasurer gave a brief overview of the financial consequences

overwhelm [.əuvəˈwelm] – v. overcome, as with emotions or perceptual stimuli

owe [əu] – v. be obliged to pay or repay

owl [aul] – n. nocturnal bird of prey with hawk-like beak and claws and large head with front-facing eyes

own [əun] – adj. belonging to or on behalf of a specified person (especially yourself); preceded by a possessive: for your own use

owner [ˈəunə] – n. a person who owns something: they are searching for the owner of the car

ownership [ˈəunəʃip] – n. the act of having and controlling property

oxygen [ˈɔksidʒən] – n. a nonmetallic bivalent element that is normally a colorless odorless tasteless nonflammable diatomic gas; constitutes 21 percent of the atmosphere by volume; the most abundant element in the earth’s crust

ozone [ˈəuzəun] – n. a colorless gas (O3) soluble in alkalis and cold water; a strong oxidizing agent; can be produced by electric discharge in oxygen or by the action of ultraviolet radiation on oxygen in the stratosphere (where it acts as a screen for ultraviolet radiation)

pace [peis] – n. the rate of moving (especially walking or running)

pack [pæk] – v. arrange in a container: pack the books into the boxes

package [ˈpækidʒ] – n. a collection of things wrapped or boxed together

packet [ˈpækit] – n. a collection of things wrapped or boxed together

pad [pæd] – n. the large floating leaf of an aquatic plant (as the water lily)

page [peidʒ] – n. English industrialist who pioneered in the design and manufacture of aircraft (1885-1962)

paid  – adj. involving gainful employment in something often done as a hobby

pain [pein] – n. a symptom of some physical hurt or disorder: the patient developed severe pain and distension

painful [ˈpeinfəl] – adj. causing misery or pain or distress: the painful process of growing up

paint [peint] – n. makeup consisting of a pink or red powder applied to the cheeks

painter [ˈpeintə] – n. a worker who is employed to cover objects with paint

painting [ˈpeintiŋ] – n. creating a picture with paints: he studied painting and sculpture for many years

pair [pɛə] – v. bring two objects, ideas, or people together: The student was paired with a partner for collaboration on the project

pal [pæl] – n. a close friend who accompanies his buddies in their activities

palace [ˈpælis] – n. a large and stately mansion

pale [peil] – adj. very light colored; highly diluted with white: pale seagreen

palm [pɑ:m] – n. the inner surface of the hand from the wrist to the base of the fingers

pan [pæn] – n. cooking utensil consisting of a wide metal vessel

panel [ˈpænl] – n. sheet that forms a distinct (usually flat and rectangular) section or component of something

panic [ˈpænik] – n. an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety

papal  – adj. proceeding from or ordered by or subject to a pope or the papacy regarded as the successor of the Apostles: papal dispensation

paper [ˈpeipə] – n. a material made of cellulose pulp derived mainly from wood or rags or certain grasses

par [pɑ:] – n. (golf) the standard number of strokes set for each hole on a golf course, or for the entire course: a par-5 hole

parade [pəˈreid] – n. a ceremonial procession including people marching

paragraph [ˈpærəgrɑ:f] – n. one of several distinct subdivisions of a text intended to separate ideas; the beginning is usually marked by a new indented line

parallel [ˈpærəlel] – n. something having the property of being analogous to something else

parameter [pəˈræmitə] – n. a constant in the equation of a curve that can be varied to yield a family of similar curves

parcel [ˈpɑ:sl] – n. a wrapped container

pardon [ˈpɑ:dn] – n. the act of excusing a mistake or offense

parent [ˈpɛərənt] – n. an organism (plant or animal) from which younger ones are obtained

parental  – adj. designating the generation of organisms from which hybrid offspring are produced

parish [ˈpæriʃ] – n. a local church community

park [pɑ:k] – n. a large area of land preserved in its natural state as public property: there are laws that protect the wildlife in this park

parliament [ˈpɑ:ləmənt] – n. a legislative assembly in certain countries

parliamentary [.pɑ:ləˈmentəri] – adj. relating to or having the nature of a parliament: parliamentary reform

part [pɑ:t] – n. something determined in relation to something that includes it: he wanted to feel a part of something bigger than himself

partial [ˈpɑ:ʃəl] – adj. showing favoritism

partially [ˈpɑ:ʃəli] – adv. in part; in some degree; not wholly: He was partially paralyzed

participant [pɑ:ˈtisipənt] – n. someone who takes part in an activity

participate [pɑ:ˈtisipeit] – v. share in something

participation [pɑ:.tisiˈpeiʃən] – n. the act of sharing in the activities of a group

particle [ˈpɑ:tikl] – n. (nontechnical usage) a tiny piece of anything

particular [pəˈtikjulə] – adj. unique or specific to a person or thing or category: the particular demands of the job

particularly [pəˈtikjʊləli] – adv. to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common: he was particularly fussy about spelling

partly [ˈpɑ:tli] – adv. in part; in some degree; not wholly: I felt partly to blame

partner [ˈpɑ:tnə] – n. an associate in an activity or endeavor or sphere of common interest: sexual partners

partnership [ˈpɑ:tnəʃip] – n. the members of a business venture created by contract

part-time  – adj. involving less than the standard or customary time for an activity: part-time employees

party [ˈpɑ:ti] – n. an organization to gain political power: in 1992 Perot tried to organize a third party at the national level

pass [pɑ:s] – v. go across or through: We passed the point where the police car had parked

passage [ˈpæsidʒ] – n. a section of text; particularly a section of medium length

passenger [ˈpæsindʒə] – n. a traveler riding in a vehicle (a boat or bus or car or plane or train etc) who is not operating it

passion [ˈpæʃən] – n. a strong feeling or emotion

passionate [ˈpæʃənit] – adj. having or expressing strong emotions

passive [ˈpæsiv] – adj. lacking in energy or will: Much benevolence of the passive order may be traced to a disinclination to inflict pain upon oneself

passport [ˈpɑ:s.pɔ:t] – n. a document issued by a country to a citizen allowing that person to travel abroad and re-enter the home country

past [pɑ:st] – n. the time that has elapsed: forget the past

pasture [ˈpæstʃ] – n. a field covered with grass or herbage and suitable for grazing by livestock

pat [pæt] – n. the sound made by a gentle blow

patch [pætʃ] – n. a small contrasting part of something: a patch of clouds

patent [ˈpætnt] – v. make open to sight or notice: His behavior has patented an embarrassing fact about him

path [pɑ:θ] – n. a course of conduct: the path of virtue

patience [ˈpeiʃəns] – n. good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence

patient [ˈpeiʃənt] – n. a person who requires medical care: the number of emergency patients has grown rapidly

patrol [pəˈtrəul] – n. a detachment used for security or reconnaissance

patron [ˈpeitrən] – n. a regular customer

pattern [ˈpætən] – n. a perceptual structure: a visual pattern must include not only objects but the spaces between them

pause [pɔ:z] – n. a time interval during which there is a temporary cessation of something

pavement [ˈpeivmənt] – n. material used to pave an area

pay [pei] – v. give money, usually in exchange for goods or services

payable [ˈpeiəbl] – n. a liability account showing how much is owed for goods and services purchased on credit: the problem was to match receivables and payables in the same currency

payment [ˈpeimənt] – n. a sum of money paid or a claim discharged

peace [pi:s] – n. the state prevailing during the absence of war

peaceful [ˈpi:sfəl] – adj. not disturbed by strife or turmoil or war: a peaceful nation

peak [pi:k] – n. the most extreme possible amount or value: voltage peak

peasant [ˈpezənt] – n. a country person

peculiar [piˈkju:ljə] – adj. beyond or deviating from the usual or expected: the peculiar aromatic odor of cloves

pedestrian [piˈdestriən] – n. a person who travels by foot

peer [piə] – n. a person who is of equal standing with another in a group

pen [pen] – n. a writing implement with a point from which ink flows

penalty [ˈpenəlti] – n. the act of punishing

pencil [ˈpensl] – n. a thin cylindrical pointed writing implement; a rod of marking substance encased in wood

penetrate [ˈpenitreit] – v. pass into or through, often by overcoming resistance: The bullet penetrated her chest

penny [ˈpeni] – n. a fractional monetary unit of Ireland and the United Kingdom; equal to one hundredth of a pound

pension [ˈpenʃən] – n. a regular payment to a person that is intended to allow them to subsist without working

pensioner  – n. the beneficiary of a pension fund

people [ˈpi:pl] – n. (plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively: old people

pepper [ˈpepə] – n. sweet and hot varieties of fruits of plants of the genus Capsicum

perceive [pəˈsi:v] – v. to become aware of through the senses: I could perceive the ship coming over the horizon

perceived  – adj. detected by means of the senses: a perceived difference in temperature

percent [pəˈsent] – n. a proportion in relation to a whole (which is usually the amount per hundred)

percentage [pəˈsentidʒ] – n. a proportion in relation to a whole (which is usually the amount per hundred)

perception [pəˈsepʃən] – n. a way of conceiving something: Luther had a new perception of the Bible

perfect [ˈpə:fikt] – adj. being complete of its kind and without defect or blemish: a perfect circle

perfectly [ˈpɜ:fiktli] – adv. completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers: a perfectly idiotic idea

perform [pəˈfɔ:m] – v. get (something) done

performance [pəˈfɔ:məns] – n. a dramatic or musical entertainment: they listened to ten different performances

performer [pəˈfɔ:mə(r)] – n. an entertainer who performs a dramatic or musical work for an audience

perhaps [pəˈhæps] – adv. by chance: perhaps she will call tomorrow

period [ˈpiəriəd] – n. an amount of time: a time period of 30 years

permanent [ˈpə:mənənt] – adj. continuing or enduring without marked change in status or condition or place: permanent secretary to the president

permanently [ˈpɜ:məntli] – adv. for a long time without essential change: he is permanently disabled

permission [pəˈmiʃən] – n. approval to do something: he asked permission to leave

permit [ˈpə:mit,pəˈmit] – n. the act of giving a formal (usually written) authorization

persist [pəˈsist] – v. continue to exist

persistent [pəˈsistənt] – adj. never-ceasing

person [ˈpə:sn] – n. a human being: there was too much for one person to do

personal [ˈpə:sənl] – adj. particular to a given individual

personality [.pə:səˈnæliti] – n. a person of considerable prominence: she is a Hollywood personality

personally [ˈpə:sənəli] – adv. as yourself: speaking personally, I would not want to go

personnel [.pə:səˈnel] – n. group of people willing to obey orders

perspective [pəˈspektiv] – n. a way of regarding situations or topics etc.

persuade [pəˈsweid] – v. win approval or support for

pest [pest] – n. any epidemic disease with a high death rate

pet [pet] – n. a domesticated animal kept for companionship or amusement

petition [piˈtiʃən] – n. a formal message requesting something that is submitted to an authority

petrol [ˈpetrəl] – n. a volatile flammable mixture of hydrocarbons (hexane and heptane and octane etc.) derived from petroleum; used mainly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines

petty [ˈpeti] – adj. inferior in rank or status: petty officialdom

phase [feiz] – n. any distinct time period in a sequence of events

phenomenon [fəˈnɑ:minən] – n. any state or process known through the senses rather than by intuition or reasoning

philosopher [fiˈlɔsəfə] – n. a wise person who is calm and rational; someone who lives a life of reason with equanimity

philosophical [.filəˈsɔfikəl] – adj. characterized by the attitude of a philosopher; meeting trouble with level-headed detachment: philosophical resignation

philosophy [fiˈlɔsəfi] – n. a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school

phone [fəun] – n. electro-acoustic transducer for converting electric signals into sounds; it is held over or inserted into the ear: it was not the typing but the earphones that she disliked

photo [ˈfəutəu] – n. a representation of a person or scene in the form of a print or transparent slide; recorded by a camera on light-sensitive material

photograph [ˈfəutəgrɑ:f, -græf] – n. a representation of a person or scene in the form of a print or transparent slide; recorded by a camera on light-sensitive material

photographer [fəˈtɔgrəfə] – n. someone who takes photographs professionally

photographic  – adj. representing people or nature with the exactness and fidelity of a photograph

photography [fəˈtɔgrəfi] – n. the process of producing images of objects on photosensitive surfaces

phrase [freiz] – n. an expression consisting of one or more words forming a grammatical constituent of a sentence

physical [ˈfizikəl] – adj. involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit: physical exercise

physically [ˈfizik(ə)li] – adv. in accord with physical laws: it is physically impossible

physician [fiˈziʃən] – n. a licensed medical practitioner

physics [ˈfiziks] – n. the science of matter and energy and their interactions: his favorite subject was physics

piano [piˈænəu,piˈɑ:nəu] – n. a keyboard instrument that is played by depressing keys that cause hammers to strike tuned strings and produce sounds

pick [pik] – v. select carefully from a group: She finally picked her successor

picture [ˈpiktʃə] – n. a visual representation (of an object or scene or person or abstraction) produced on a surface: they showed us the pictures of their wedding

pie [pai] – n. dish baked in pastry-lined pan often with a pastry top

piece [pi:s] – n. a separate part of a whole: an important piece of the evidence

pier [piə] – n. (architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows)

pig [pig] – n. domestic swine

pigeon [ˈpidʒin] – n. wild and domesticated birds having a heavy body and short legs

pile [pail] – n. a collection of objects laid on top of each other

pill [pil] – n. something that resembles a tablet of medicine in shape or size

pillar [ˈpilə] – n. a fundamental principle or practice: science eroded the pillars of superstition

pillow [ˈpiləu] – n. a cushion to support the head of a sleeping person

pilot [ˈpailət] – n. someone who is licensed to operate an aircraft in flight

pin [pin] – n. when a wrestler’s shoulders are forced to the mat

pine [pain] – n. a coniferous tree

pink [piŋk] – n. a light shade of red

pint [paint] – n. a British imperial capacity measure (liquid or dry) equal to 4 gills or 568.26 cubic centimeters

pioneer [.paiəˈniə] – v. open up an area or prepare a way: She pioneered a graduate program for women students

pipe [paip] – n. a tube with a small bowl at one end; used for smoking tobacco

pit [pit] – n. a sizeable hole (usually in the ground): they dug a pit to bury the body

pitch  – v. throw or toss with a light motion

pity [ˈpiti] – n. a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others: the blind are too often objects of pity

place [pleis] – n. a point located with respect to surface features of some region: this is a nice place for a picnic

placement  – n. contact established between applicants and prospective employees: the agency provided placement services

plain [plein] – adj. clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment: made his meaning plain

plaintiff [ˈpleintif] – n. a person who brings an action in a court of law

plan [plæn] – v. have the will and intention to carry out some action: He plans to be in graduate school next year

plane [plein] – n. an aircraft that has a fixed wing and is powered by propellers or jets: the flight was delayed due to trouble with the airplane

planet [ˈplænit] – n. a person who follows or serves another

planned  – adj. designed or carried out according to a plan: the planned outlays for new equipment

planner  – n. a notebook for recording appointments and things to be done, etc.

planning  – n. an act of formulating a program for a definite course of action: the planning was more fun than the trip itself

plant [plɑ:nt] – v. fix or set securely or deeply: He planted a knee in the back of his opponent

plasma [ˈplæzmə] – n. a green slightly translucent variety of chalcedony used as a gemstone

plaster [ˈplɑ:stə] – v. apply a heavy coat to

plastic [ˈplæstik] – adj. capable of being molded or modeled (especially of earth or clay or other soft material): plastic substances such as wax or clay

plate [pleit] – n. a sheet of metal or wood or glass or plastic

platform [ˈplætfɔ:m] – n. a raised horizontal surface: the speaker mounted the platform

plausible [ˈplɔ:zəbl] – adj. apparently reasonable and valid, and truthful: a plausible excuse

play [plei] – v. participate in games or sport: We played hockey all afternoon

player [ˈpleiə] – n. a person who participates in or is skilled at some game

plea [pli:] – n. a humble request for help from someone in authority

plead [pli:d] – v. appeal or request earnestly: I pleaded with him to stop

pleasant [ˈpleznt] – adj. (of persons) having pleasing manners or behavior: I didn’t enjoy it and probably wasn’t a pleasant person to be around

please [pli:z] – v. be the will of or have the will (to): he could do many things if he pleased

pleased [pli:zd] – adj. feeling pleasurable satisfaction over something by which you measures your self-worth

pleasure [ˈpleʒə] – n. a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience: he was tingling with pleasure

pledge [pledʒ] – v. promise solemnly and formally: I pledge that I will honor my wife

plot [plɔt] – n. a secret scheme to do something (especially something underhand or illegal): they concocted a plot to discredit the governor

plug [plʌg] – n. blockage consisting of an object designed to fill a hole tightly

plunge [plʌndʒ] – v. thrust or throw into

pocket [ˈpɔkit] – n. a small pouch inside a garment for carrying small articles

poem [ˈpəuim] – n. a composition written in metrical feet forming rhythmical lines

poet [ˈpəuit] – n. a writer of poems (the term is usually reserved for writers of good poetry)

poetry [ˈpəuitri] – n. literature in metrical form

point [pɔint] – n. a geometric element that has position but no extension: a point is defined by its coordinates

poison [ˈpɔizn] – n. any substance that causes injury or illness or death of a living organism

pole [pəul] – n. a long (usually round) rod of wood or metal or plastic

police [pəˈli:s] – v. maintain the security of by carrying out a patrol

policeman [pəˈli:smən] – n. a member of a police force

policy [ˈpɔlisi] – n. a plan of action adopted by an individual or social group: it was a policy of retribution

polish [ˈpɔliʃ] – n. the property of being smooth and shiny

polite [pəˈlait] – adj. showing regard for others in manners, speech, behavior, etc.

political [pəˈlitikəl] – adj. of or relating to your views about social relationships involving authority or power: political opinions

politically  – adv. with regard to social relationships involving authority: politically correct clothing

politician [.pɔliˈtiʃən] – n. a leader engaged in civil administration

politics [ˈpɔlitiks] – n. social relations involving intrigue to gain authority or power: office politics is often counterproductive

poll [pəul] – n. an inquiry into public opinion conducted by interviewing a random sample of people

pollution [pəˈlu:ʃən] – n. the state of being polluted

polymer [ˈpɔlimə] – n. a naturally occurring or synthetic compound consisting of large molecules made up of a linked series of repeated simple monomers

polytechnic [pɔliˈteknik] – n. a technical school offering instruction in many industrial arts and applied sciences

pond [pɔnd] – n. a small lake: the pond was too small for sailing

pony [ˈpəuni] – n. a range horse of the western United States

pool [pu:l] – n. an excavation that is (usually) filled with water

poor [puə] – adj. deserving or inciting pity: Oh, you poor thing

poorly  – adj. somewhat ill or prone to illness: feeling poorly

pop [pɔp] – v. bulge outward: His eyes popped

pope [pu:p] – n. the head of the Roman Catholic Church

popular [ˈpɔpjulə] – adj. regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public: a popular tourist attraction

popularity [.pɔpjuˈlæriti] – n. the quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after: his charm soon won him affection and popularity

population [.pɔpjuˈleiʃən] – n. the people who inhabit a territory or state: the population seemed to be well fed and clothed

port [pɔ:t] – v. put or turn on the left side, of a ship: port the helm

portable [ˈpɔ:təbl] – adj. of a motor designed to be attached to the outside of a boat’s hull: a portable outboard motor

porter [ˈpɔ:tə] – n. a person employed to carry luggage and supplies

portfolio [pɔ:tˈfəuliəu] – n. a large, flat, thin case for carrying loose papers or drawings or maps; usually leather: he remembered her because she was carrying a large portfolio

portion [ˈpɔ:ʃən] – n. something determined in relation to something that includes it: I read a portion of the manuscript

portrait [ˈpɔ:trit] – n. a word picture of a person’s appearance and character

portray [pɔ:ˈtrei] – v. make a portrait of: Goya wanted to portray his mistress, the Duchess of Alba

pose [pəuz] – v. introduce: This poses an interesting question

position [pəˈziʃən] – n. the particular portion of space occupied by something

positive [ˈpɔzitiv] – adj. characterized by or displaying affirmation or acceptance or certainty etc.: a positive attitude

positively [ˈpɔzətivli] – adv. extremely: it was positively monumental

possess [pəˈzes] – v. have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill: he possesses great knowledge about the Middle East

possession [pəˈzeʃən] – n. the act of having and controlling property

possibility [.pɔsəˈbiliti] – n. a future prospect or potential

possible [ˈpɔsəbl] – n. something that can be done: politics is the art of the possible

possibly [ˈpɔsəbli] – adv. by chance: we may possibly run into them at the concert

post [pəust] – v. affix in a public place or for public notice: post a warning

postcard [ˈpəust.kɑ:d] – n. a card for sending messages by post without an envelope

poster [ˈpəustə] – n. someone who pastes up bills or placards on walls or billboards

postpone [pəustˈpəun] – v. hold back to a later time: let’s postpone the exam

pot [pɔt] – n. metal or earthenware cooking vessel that is usually round and deep; often has a handle and lid

potato [pəˈteitəu] – n. an edible tuber native to South America; a staple food of Ireland

potential [pəˈtenʃəl] – n. the inherent capacity for coming into being

potentially  – adv. with a possibility of becoming actual: he is potentially dangerous

pottery [ˈpɔtəri] – n. ceramic ware made from clay and baked in a kiln

pound [paund] – n. 16 ounces avoirdupois: he got a hernia when he tried to lift 100 pounds

pour [pɔ:] – v. cause to run: pour water over the floor

poverty [ˈpɔvəti] – n. the state of having little or no money and few or no material possessions

powder [ˈpaudə] – n. a solid substance in the form of tiny loose particles; a solid that has been pulverized

power [ˈpauə] – n. possession of controlling influence: the deterrent power of nuclear weapons

powerful [ˈpauəfəl] – adj. strong enough to knock down or overwhelm

practical [ˈpræktikəl] – adj. concerned with actual use or practice: he is a very practical person

practically [ˈpræktikəli] – adv. almost; nearly: practically the first thing I saw when I got off the train

practice [ˈpræktis] – n. a customary way of operation or behavior: it is their practice to give annual raises

practise  – v. engage in a rehearsal (of)

practitioner [prækˈtiʃənə] – n. someone who practices a learned profession

praise [preiz] – n. an expression of approval and commendation: he always appreciated praise for his work

pray [prei] – v. call upon in supplication; entreat

prayer [prɛə] – n. the act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving): the priest sank to his knees in prayer

preach [pri:tʃ] – v. deliver a sermon: The minister is not preaching this Sunday

precaution [priˈkɔ:ʃən] – n. the trait of practicing caution in advance

precede [pri:ˈsi:d] – v. be earlier in time; go back further: Stone tools precede bronze tools

precedent [ˈpresidənt] – n. an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time

precious [ˈpreʃəs] – adj. characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for: children are precious

precise [priˈsais] – adj. sharply exact or accurate or delimited: a precise mind

precisely [priˈsaisli] – adv. in a precise manner: she always expressed herself precisely

precision [priˈsiʒən] – n. the quality of being reproducible in amount or performance: note the meticulous precision of his measurements

predator [ˈpredətə] – n. someone who attacks in search of booty

predecessor [ˈpri:disesə] – n. one who precedes you in time (as in holding a position or office)

predict [priˈdikt] – v. indicate by signs

predictable [priˈdiktəbəl] – adj. capable of being foretold

prediction [priˈdikʃən] – n. a statement made about the future

predominantly [priˈdɔminəntli] – adv. much greater in number or influence: the patients are predominantly indigenous

prefer [priˈfə:] – v. like better; value more highly: Some people prefer camping to staying in hotels

preference [ˈprefərəns] – n. a strong liking: my own preference is for good literature

preferred  – adj. more desirable than another: Danny’s preferred name is `Dan’

pregnancy [ˈpregnənsi] – n. the state of being pregnant; the period from conception to birth when a woman carries a developing fetus in her uterus

pregnant [ˈpregnənt] – adj. carrying developing offspring within the body or being about to produce new life

prejudice [ˈpredʒudis] – v. influence (somebody’s) opinion in advance

preliminary [priˈliminəri] – n. a minor match preceding the main event

premature [.preməˈtʃuə] – adj. born after a gestation period of less than the normal time: a premature infant

premier [ˈpremjə] – n. the person who holds the position of head of the government in the United Kingdom

premise [ˈpremis] – v. set forth beforehand, often as an explanation: He premised these remarks so that his readers might understand

premium [ˈpri:miəm] – n. payment for insurance

preoccupation [pri(:).ɔkjuˈpeiʃən] – n. the mental state of being preoccupied by something

preparation [.prepəˈreiʃən] – n. the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose: preparations for the ceremony had begun

prepare [priˈpɛə] – v. make ready or suitable or equip in advance for a particular purpose or for some use, event, etc: prepare for war

prescribe [prisˈkraib] – v. issue commands or orders for

prescription [prisˈkripʃən] – n. a drug that is available only with written instructions from a doctor or dentist to a pharmacist: he told the doctor that he had been taking his prescription regularly

presence [ˈprezns] – n. the immediate proximity of someone or something: she blushed in his presence

present [ˈpreznt,priˈzent] – v. give an exhibition of to an interested audience

presentation [.prezenˈteiʃən] – n. a show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view: the presentation of new data

presently [ˈprezntli] – adv. in the near future: she will arrive presently

preservation [.prezə(:)ˈveiʃən] – n. the activity of protecting something from loss or danger

preserve [priˈzə:v] – v. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last: preserve the peace in the family

presidency [ˈprezidənsi] – n. the office and function of president: Andrew Jackson expanded the power of the presidency beyond what was customary before his time

president [ˈprezidənt] – n. an executive officer of a firm or corporation

presidential [.preziˈdenʃəl] – adj. befitting a president: criticized the candidate for not looking presidential

press [pres] – v. force or impel in an indicated direction

pressure [ˈpreʃə] – n. the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit): the compressed gas exerts an increased pressure

prestige [presˈti:ʒ] – n. a high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.: he wanted to achieve power and prestige

presumably [priˈzju:məbli] – adv. by reasonable assumption: presumably, he missed the train

presume [priˈzju:m] – v. take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof

pretend [priˈtend] – v. make believe with the intent to deceive

pretty [ˈpriti] – adj. pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing: pretty girl

prevail [priˈveil] – v. be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance

prevalence [ˈprevələns] – n. the quality of prevailing generally; being widespread: he was surprised by the prevalence of optimism about the future

prevent [priˈvent] – v. keep from happening or arising; make impossible

prevention [priˈvenʃən] – n. the act of preventing: money was allocated to study the cause and prevention of influenza

previous [ˈpri:vjəs] – adj. just preceding something else in time or order: the previous owner

previously [ˈpri:vju:sli] – adv. at an earlier time or formerly: she had previously lived in Chicago

prey [prei] – n. animal hunted or caught for food

price [prais] – n. the property of having material worth (often indicated by the amount of money something would bring if sold): he puts a high price on his services

pride [praid] – n. a feeling of self-respect and personal worth

priest [pri:st] – n. a person who performs religious duties and ceremonies in a non-Christian religion

primarily [praiˈmərili] – adv. for the most part

primary [ˈpraiməri] – adj. of first rank or importance or value; direct and immediate rather than secondary: primary goals

prime [praim] – adj. first in rank or degree: the prime minister

primitive [ˈprimitiv] – adj. belonging to an early stage of technical development; characterized by simplicity and (often) crudeness: primitive movies of the 1890s

prince [prins] – n. a male member of a royal family other than the sovereign (especially the son of a sovereign)

princess [ˈprinˈses] – n. a female member of a royal family other than the queen (especially the daughter of a sovereign)

principal [ˈprinsəpəl] – n. the original amount of a debt on which interest is calculated

principally [ˈprinsipli] – adv. for the most part

principle [ˈprinsəpl] – n. a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct: their principles of composition characterized all their works

print [print] – n. a visible indication made on a surface: paw prints were everywhere

printer [ˈprintə] – n. (computer science) an output device that prints the results of data processing

printing [ˈprintiŋ] – n. the business of producing printed material for sale or distribution

prior [ˈpraiə] – adj. earlier in time

priority [praiˈɔriti] – n. status established in order of importance or urgency: national independence takes priority over class struggle

prison [ˈprizn] – n. a correctional institution where persons are confined while on trial or for punishment

prisoner [ˈprizənə] – n. a person who is confined; especially a prisoner of war

privacy [ˈpraivəsi] – n. the quality of being secluded from the presence or view of others

private [ˈpraivit] – adj. confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy: a private place

privately  – adv. by a private person or interest: a privately financed campaign

privatisation  – n. changing something from state to private ownership or control

privatization  – n. changing something from state to private ownership or control

privilege [ˈprivilidʒ] – n. a special advantage or immunity or benefit not enjoyed by all

privileged [ˈprivilidʒd] – adj. not subject to usual rules or penalties: a privileged statement

prize [praiz] – n. something given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition or for winning a lottery: the prize was a free trip to Europe

probability [.prɔbəˈbiliti] – n. the quality of being probable; a probable event or the most probable event: for a while mutiny seemed a probability

probable [ˈprɔbəbl] – adj. likely but not certain to be or become true or real: he foresaw a probable loss

probably [ˈprɔbəbli] – adv. with considerable certainty; without much doubt: He is probably out of the country

probe [prəub] – n. an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities: there was a congressional probe into the scandal

problem [ˈprɔbləm] – n. a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved: she and her husband are having problems

procedure [prəˈsi:dʒə] – n. a particular course of action intended to achieve a result: the procedure of obtaining a driver’s license

proceed [prəˈsi:d] – v. continue talking

process [ˈprɑ:ses] – v. deal with in a routine way: process a loan

procession [prəˈseʃən, prəu-] – n. (theology) the origination of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost: the doctrine of the procession of the Holy Spirit from the Father and the Son

processor [ˈprəusesə] – n. someone who processes things (foods or photographs or applicants etc.)

proclaim [prəˈkleim] – v. declare formally; declare someone to be something; of titles: He was proclaimed King

produce [prəˈdju:s] – v. bring forth or yield: The tree would not produce fruit

producer [prəˈdju:sə] – n. someone who manufactures something

product [ˈprɔdəkt] – n. commodities offered for sale: that store offers a variety of products

production [prəˈdʌkʃən] – n. a presentation for the stage or screen or radio or television: have you seen the new production of Hamlet?

productive [prəˈdʌktiv] – adj. having the ability to produce or originate

productivity [.prɔdʌkˈtiviti] – n. (economics) the ratio of the quantity and quality of units produced to the labor per unit of time

profession [prəˈfeʃən] – n. the body of people in a learned occupation: the news spread rapidly through the medical profession

professional [prəˈfeʃənəl] – adj. of or relating to or suitable as a profession: professional organizations

professor [prəˈfesə] – n. someone who is a member of the faculty at a college or university

profile [ˈprəufail] – n. an analysis (often in graphical form) representing the extent to which something exhibits various characteristics: a biochemical profile of blood

profit [ˈprɔfit] – n. the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time (including depreciation and other non-cash expenses)

profitability  – n. the quality of affording gain or benefit or profit

profitable [ˈprɔfitəbl] – adj. yielding material gain or profit: profitable speculation on the stock market

profound [prəˈfaund] – adj. showing intellectual penetration or emotional depth: the differences are profound

program [ˈprəugræm] – n. a series of steps to be carried out or goals to be accomplished

programme  – n. an announcement of the events that will occur as part of a theatrical or sporting event

programming [ˈprəugræmiŋ] – n. setting an order and time for planned events

progress [prəuˈgres] – n. gradual improvement or growth or development: great progress in the arts

progressive [prəˈgresiv] – adj. favoring or promoting reform (often by government action)

prohibit [prəˈhibit] – v. command against

project [prəˈdʒekt] – v. communicate vividly: He projected his feelings

projection [prəˈdʒekʃən] – n. a prediction made by extrapolating from past observations

prominent [ˈprɔminənt] – adj. having a quality that thrusts itself into attention: a new theory is the most prominent feature of the book

promise [ˈprɔmis] – v. make a prediction about; tell in advance

promote [prəˈməut] – v. contribute to the progress or growth of

promoter [prəˈməutə] – n. someone who is an active supporter and advocate

promotion [prəˈməuʃən] – n. a message issued in behalf of some product or cause or idea or person or institution

prompt [prɔmpt] – v. give an incentive for action

promptly [ˈprɔmptli] – adv. with little or no delay: the rescue squad arrived promptly

prone [prəun] – adj. having a tendency (to); often used in combination: a child prone to mischief

pronounce [prəˈnauns] – v. speak, pronounce, or utter in a certain way: She pronounces French words in a funny way

proof [pru:f] – n. any factual evidence that helps to establish the truth of something: if you have any proof for what you say, now is the time to produce it

prop [prɔp] – n. a support placed beneath or against something to keep it from shaking or falling

propaganda [,prɔpəˈgændə] – n. information that is spread for the purpose of promoting some cause

proper [ˈprɔpə] – adj. having all the qualities typical of the thing specified: wanted a proper dinner; not just a snack

properly [ˈprɔpəli] – adv. in the right manner: please do your job properly!

property [ˈprɔpəti] – n. something owned; any tangible or intangible possession that is owned by someone: that hat is my property

proportion [prəˈpɔ:ʃən] – n. the quotient obtained when the magnitude of a part is divided by the magnitude of the whole

proportional [prəˈpɔ:ʃənl] – adj. properly related in size or degree or other measurable characteristics; usually followed by `to’: the punishment ought to be proportional to the crime

proposal [prəˈpəuzəl] – n. an offer of marriage

propose [prəˈpəuz] – v. present for consideration, examination, criticism, etc.: He proposed a new plan for dealing with terrorism

proposition [.prɔpəˈziʃən] – n. (logic) a statement that affirms or denies something and is either true or false

proprietor [prəˈpraiətə] – n. (law) someone who owns (is legal possessor of) a business

prosecute [ˈprɔsikju:t] – v. bring a criminal action against (in a trial): The State of California prosecuted O.J. Simpson

prosecution [.prɔsiˈkju:ʃən] – n. the institution and conduct of legal proceedings against a defendant for criminal behavior

prospect [ˈprɔspekt] – n. the possibility of future success: his prospects as a writer are excellent

prospective [prəˈspektiv] – adj. of or concerned with or related to the future: prospective earnings

prosperity [prɔsˈperiti] – n. an economic state of growth with rising profits and full employment

protect [prəˈtekt] – v. shield from danger, injury, destruction, or damage: Weatherbeater protects your roof from the rain

protection [prəˈtekʃən] – n. a covering that is intend to protect from damage or injury: they had no protection from the fallout

protective [prəˈtektiv] – adj. showing care: a protective mother

protein [ˈprəuti:n] – n. any of a large group of nitrogenous organic compounds that are essential constituents of living cells; consist of polymers of amino acids; essential in the diet of animals for growth and for repair of tissues; can be obtained from meat and eggs and milk and legumes: a diet high in protein

protest [ˈprəutest,prəˈtest] – n. a formal and solemn declaration of objection: they finished the game under protest to the league president

protocol [ˈprɔtəkɔl] – n. (computer science) rules determining the format and transmission of data

proud [praud] – adj. feeling self-respect or pleasure in something by which you measure your self-worth; or being a reason for pride: proud parents

prove [pru:v] – v. be shown or be found to be: She proved to be right

provide [prəˈvaid] – v. give something useful or necessary to: We provided the room with an electrical heater

provider  – n. someone whose business is to supply a particular service or commodity

province [ˈprɔvins] – n. the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation

provincial [prəˈvinʃəl] – n. a country person

provision [prəˈviʒən] – n. a stipulated condition: he accepted subject to one provision

provisional [prəˈviʒənl] – adj. under terms not final or fully worked out or agreed upon: a provisional government

provoke [prəˈvəuk] – v. call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)

psychiatric [.saikiˈætrik] – adj. relating to or used in or engaged in the practice of psychiatry: psychiatric disorder

psychological [.saikəˈlɔdʒikəl] – adj. mental or emotional as opposed to physical in nature: give psychological support

psychologist [saiˈkɔlədʒist] – n. a scientist trained in psychology

psychology [saiˈkɔlədʒi] – n. the science of mental life

pub [pʌb] – n. tavern consisting of a building with a bar and public rooms; often provides light meals

public [ˈpʌblik] – n. people in general considered as a whole: he is a hero in the eyes of the public

publication [.pʌbliˈkeiʃən] – n. a copy of a printed work offered for distribution

publicity [pʌbˈlisiti] – n. a message issued in behalf of some product or cause or idea or person or institution

publicly [ˈpʌblikli] – adv. by the public or the people generally: publicly provided medical care

publish [ˈpʌbliʃ] – v. put into print: The newspaper published the news of the royal couple’s divorce

publisher [ˈpʌbliʃə(r)] – n. a person engaged in publishing periodicals or books or music

publishing  – n. the business of issuing printed matter for sale or distribution

pudding [ˈpudiŋ] – n. any of various soft thick unsweetened baked dishes: corn pudding

pull [pul] – v. direct toward itself or oneself by means of some psychological power or physical attributes: The ad pulled in many potential customers

pulse [pʌls] – n. (electronics) a sharp transient wave in the normal electrical state (or a series of such transients)

pump [pʌmp] – v. deliver forth: pump bullets into the dummy

punch [pʌntʃ] – n. (boxing) a blow with the fist

punish [ˈpʌniʃ] – v. impose a penalty on; inflict punishment on: we had to punish the dog for soiling the floor again

punishment [ˈpʌniʃmənt] – n. the act of punishing

pupil [ˈpju:pl] – n. a learner who is enrolled in an educational institution

purchase [ˈpə:tʃəs] – n. the acquisition of something for payment: they closed the purchase with a handshake

purchaser [ˈpə:tʃəsə] – n. a person who buys

pure [pjuə] – adj. free of extraneous elements of any kind: pure air and water

purely [ˈpjʊəli] – adv. restricted to something

purple [ˈpə:pl] – adj. of a color intermediate between red and blue

purpose [ˈpə:pəs] – n. an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

pursue [pəˈsju:] – v. carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in: She pursued many activities

pursuit [pəˈsju:t] – n. a search for an alternative that meets cognitive criteria: the pursuit of love

push [puʃ] – v. move with force,: He pushed the table into a corner

put [put] – v. cause to be in a certain state; cause to be in a certain relation: That song put me in awful good humor

puzzle [ˈpʌzl] – n. a particularly baffling problem that is said to have a correct solution: he loved to solve chessmate puzzles

qualification [.kwɔlifiˈkeiʃən] – n. an attribute that must be met or complied with and that fits a person for something: her qualifications for the job are excellent

qualified [ˈkwɔlifaid] – adj. meeting the proper standards and requirements and training for an office or position or task: many qualified applicants for the job

qualify [ˈkwɔlifai] – v. prove capable or fit; meet requirements

quality [ˈkwɔliti] – n. an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone: the quality of mercy is not strained

quantitative [ˈkwɔntitətiv] – adj. relating to the measurement of quantity: quantitative studies

quantity [ˈkwɔntiti] – n. an adequate or large amount: he had a quantity of ammunition

quantum [ˈkwɑntəm] – n. (physics) the smallest discrete quantity of some physical property that a system can possess (according to quantum theory)

quarry [ˈkwɔri] – n. a surface excavation for extracting stone or slate: a British term for `quarry’ is `stone pit’

quarter [ˈkwɔ:tə] – n. one of four equal parts: a quarter of a pound

queen [ˈkwi:n] – n. the only fertile female in a colony of social insects such as bees and ants and termites; its function is to lay eggs

query [ˈkwiəri] – n. an instance of questioning

quest [kwest] – v. make a search (for): Things that die with their eyes open and questing

question [ˈkwestʃən] – n. the subject matter at issue: the question of disease merits serious discussion

questionnaire [.kwestʃənˈɛ] – n. a form containing a set of questions; submitted to people to gain statistical information

queue [kju:] – n. a line of people or vehicles waiting for something

quick [kwik] – adj. accomplished rapidly and without delay: was quick to make friends

quickly [ˈkwikli] – adv. with rapid movements: he works quickly

quid  – n. the basic unit of money in Great Britain and Northern Ireland; equal to 100 pence

quiet [ˈkwaiət] – adj. characterized by an absence or near absence of agitation or activity: a quiet life

quietly [ˈkwaiətli] – adv. with low volume: she spoke quietly to the child

quit [kwit] – v. put an end to a state or an activity

quite [kwait] – adv. to a degree (not used with a negative): quite tasty

quota [ˈkwəutə] – n. a prescribed number: all the salesmen met their quota for the month

quotation [kwəuˈteiʃən] – n. a short note recognizing a source of information or of a quoted passage

quote [kwəut] – v. repeat a passage from: He quoted the Bible to her

rabbit [ˈræbit] – n. any of various burrowing animals of the family Leporidae having long ears and short tails; some domesticated and raised for pets or food

race [reis] – n. any competition: the race for the presidency

racial [ˈreiʃəl] – adj. of or related to genetically distinguished groups of people: racial groups

racism  – n. discriminatory or abusive behavior towards members of another race

rack [ræk] – v. stretch to the limits: rack one’s brains

radiation [.reidiˈeiʃən] – n. the act of spreading outward from a central source

radical [ˈrædikəl,ˈrædikl] – n. (chemistry) two or more atoms bound together as a single unit and forming part of a molecule

radio [ˈreidiəu] – n. medium for communication

rage [reidʒ] – n. a feeling of intense anger: his face turned red with rage

raid [reid] – v. search without warning, make a sudden surprise attack on: The police raided the crack house

rail [reil] – v. complain bitterly

railway [ˈreilwei] – n. a line of track providing a runway for wheels

rain [rein] – n. water falling in drops from vapor condensed in the atmosphere

raise [reiz] – v. cause to be heard or known; express or utter: raise a shout

raised  – adj. located or moved above the surround or above the normal position: a raised design

rally [ˈræli] – n. a large gathering of people intended to arouse enthusiasm

ram  – n. (astrology) a person who is born while the sun is in Aries

random [ˈrændəm] – adj. lacking any definite plan or order or purpose; governed by or depending on chance: a random choice

range [reindʒ] – n. an area in which something acts or operates or has power or control:: the range of a supersonic jet

rank [ræŋk] – n. a row or line of people (especially soldiers or police) standing abreast of one another: the entrance was guarded by ranks of policemen

rape [reip] – n. the act of despoiling a country in warfare

rapid [ˈræpid] – adj. done or occurring in a brief period of time: a rapid rise through the ranks

rapidly [ˈræpidli] – adv. with rapid movements

rare [rɛə] – adj. not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness: a rare word

rarely [ˈrɛəli] – adv. not often: we rarely met

rat [ræt] – v. desert one’s party or group of friends, for example, for one’s personal advantage

rate [reit] – n. a magnitude or frequency relative to a time unit: they traveled at a rate of 55 miles per hour

rather [ˈrɑ:ðə] – adv. on the contrary: rather than disappoint the children, he did two quick tricks before he left

rating [ˈreitiŋ] – n. an appraisal of the value of something

ratio [ˈreiʃiəu] – n. the relative magnitudes of two quantities (usually expressed as a quotient)

rational [ˈræʃənəl] – adj. consistent with or based on or using reason: rational behavior

raw [rɔ:] – adj. (used especially of commodities) being unprocessed or manufactured using only simple or minimal processes: raw wool

ray [rei] – n. a column of light (as from a beacon)

reach [ri:tʃ] – v. move forward or upward in order to touch; also in a metaphorical sense: Government reaches out to the people

react [riˈækt] – v. act against or in opposition to: She reacts negatively to everything I say

reaction [riˈækʃən] – n. (chemistry) a process in which one or more substances are changed into others: there was a chemical reaction of the lime with the ground water

reactor [ri(:)ˈæktə] – n. an electrical device used to introduce reactance into a circuit

read [red,ri:d] – v. have or contain a certain wording or form: The passage reads as follows

reader [ˈri:də] – n. someone who contracts to receive and pay for a service or a certain number of issues of a publication

readily [ˈredili] – adv. without much difficulty: these snakes can be identified readily

reading [ˈri:diŋ] – n. the cognitive process of understanding a written linguistic message: his main reading was detective stories

ready [ˈredi] – adj. completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress: get ready

real [ˈri:əl] – adj. being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory: real objects

realise  – v. earn on some commercial or business transaction; earn as salary or wages

realism [ˈriəlizəm, ˈri:-] – n. the attribute of accepting the facts of life and favoring practicality and literal truth

realistic [riəˈlistik] – adj. aware or expressing awareness of things as they really are: a realistic description

reality [riˈæləti] – n. all of your experiences that determine how things appear to you: for them demons were as much a part of reality as trees were

realize [ˈriəlaiz] – v. be fully aware or cognizant of

really [ˈriəli] – adv. in fact (used as intensifiers or sentence modifiers): really, you shouldn’t have done it

realm [relm] – n. a domain in which something is dominant: the rise of the realm of cotton in the south

rear [riə] – n. the back of a military formation or procession: infantrymen were in the rear

reason [ˈri:zn] – n. a rational motive for a belief or action: the reason that war was declared

reasonable [ˈri:znəbl] – adj. not excessive or extreme: reasonable prices

reasonably [ˈri:zənəbli] – adv. to a moderately sufficient extent or degree: the shoes are priced reasonably

reasoning  – n. thinking that is coherent and logical

reassure [.ri:əˈʃuə] – v. give or restore confidence in; cause to feel sure or certain: I reassured him that we were safe

rebel [ˈrebl,riˈbel] – n. someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action

rebellion [riˈbeljən] – n. refusal to accept some authority or code or convention: each generation must have its own rebellion

rebuild [ri:ˈbild] – v. build again: The house was rebuild after it was hit by a bomb

recall [riˈkɔ:l] – v. go back to something earlier

receipt [riˈsi:t] – n. an acknowledgment (usually tangible) that payment has been made

receive [riˈsi:v] – v. get something; come into possession of: receive payment

receiver [riˈsi:və] – n. set that receives radio or tv signals

recent [ˈri:snt] – adj. new: recent graduates

recently [ˈri:səntli] – adv. in the recent past: he was in Paris recently

reception [riˈsepʃən] – n. the manner in which something is greeted: she did not expect the cold reception she received from her superiors

receptor [riˈseptə] – n. an organ having nerve endings (in the skin or viscera or eye or ear or nose or mouth) that respond to stimulation

recession [riˈseʃən] – n. a small concavity

recipe [ˈresipi] – n. directions for making something

recipient [riˈsipiənt] – n. a person who receives something

reckon [ˈrekən] – v. expect, believe, or suppose

recognise  – v. show approval or appreciation of

recognition [.rekəgˈniʃən] – n. the process of recognizing something or someone by remembering: a politician whose recall of names was as remarkable as his recognition of faces

recognize [ˈrekəgnaiz] – v. accept (someone) to be what is claimed or accept his power and authority: We do not recognize your gods

recommend [.rekəˈmend] – v. push for something: The travel agent recommended strongly that we not travel on Thanksgiving Day

recommendation [.rekəmenˈdeiʃən] – n. something that recommends (or expresses commendation of) a person or thing as worthy or desirable

reconcile [ˈrekənsail] – v. make (one thing) compatible with (another)

reconstruction [ˈri:kənˈstrʌkʃən] – n. the activity of constructing something again

record [ˈrekɔ:d,riˈkɔ:d] – n. the number of wins versus losses and ties a team has had: at 9-0 they have the best record in their league

recorder [riˈkɔ:də] – n. someone responsible for keeping records

recording  – n. the act of making a record (especially an audio record): she watched the recording from a sound-proof booth

recover [riˈkʌvə] – v. get over an illness or shock

recovery [riˈkʌvəri] – n. return to an original state: the recovery of the forest after the fire was surprisingly rapid

recreation [.rekriˈeiʃən] – n. an activity that diverts or amuses or stimulates: for recreation he wrote poetry and solved crossword puzzles

recruit [riˈkru:t] – v. register formally as a participant or member: The party recruited many new members

recruitment [riˈkru:tmənt] – n. the act of getting recruits; enlisting people for the army (or for a job or a cause etc.)

recycle [ri:ˈsaikl] – v. cause to repeat a cycle

red [red] – n. emotionally charged terms used to refer to extreme radicals or revolutionaries

reduce [riˈdju:s] – v. make less complex: reduce a problem to a single question

reduced  – adj. made less in size or amount or degree

reduction [riˈdʌkʃən] – n. the act of decreasing or reducing something

redundancy [riˈdʌndənsi] – n. repetition of messages to reduce the probability of errors in transmission

redundant [riˈdʌndənt] – adj. more than is needed, desired, or required: yet another book on heraldry might be thought redundant

refer [riˈfə:] – v. be relevant to: There were lots of questions referring to her talk

referee [.refəˈri:] – n. (sports) the chief official (as in boxing or American football) who is expected to ensure fair play

reference [ˈrefrəns] – n. a remark that calls attention to something or someone: the speaker made several references to his wife

referendum [.refəˈrendəm] – n. a legislative act is referred for final approval to a popular vote by the electorate

referral  – n. a recommendation to consult the (professional) person or group to whom one has been referred: the insurance company says that you need a written referral from your physician before seeing a specialist

reflect [riˈflekt] – v. manifest or bring back: This action reflects his true beliefs

reflection [riˈflekʃən] – n. a calm, lengthy, intent consideration

reform [riˈfɔ:rm] – v. make changes for improvement in order to remove abuse and injustices: reform a political system

reformer [riˈfɔ:mə] – n. an apparatus that reforms the molecular structure of hydrocarbons to produce richer fuel: a catalytic reformer

refuge [ˈrefju:dʒ] – n. a safe place

refugee [.refjuˈdʒi:] – n. an exile who flees for safety

refusal [riˈfju:zəl] – n. a message refusing to accept something that is offered

refuse [ˈrefju:s,riˈfju:z] – v. show unwillingness towards

regain  – v. get or find back; recover the use of: She regained control of herself

regard [riˈgɑ:d] – n. (usually preceded by `in’) a detail or point

regardless [riˈgɑ:dlis] – adj. (usually followed by `of’) without due thought or consideration: crushing the blooms with regardless tread

regime [reiˈʒi:m] – n. the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit

regiment [ˈredʒimənt] – v. subject to rigid discipline, order, and systematization: regiment one’s children

region [ˈri:dʒən] – n. the extended spatial location of something: the farming regions of France

regional [ˈri:dʒənl] – adj. related or limited to a particular region: a regional dialect

register [ˈredʒistə] – v. record in writing; enter into a book of names or events or transactions

registration [.redʒisˈtreiʃən] – n. the act of enrolling

regret [riˈgret] – v. feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

regular [ˈregjulə] – adj. in accordance with fixed order or procedure or principle: his regular calls on his customers

regularly [ˈregjʊləli] – adv. having a regular form: regularly shaped objects

regulate [ˈregju.leit,ˈregjuleit] – v. fix or adjust the time, amount, degree, or rate of: regulate the temperature

regulation [.regjuˈleiʃən] – n. an authoritative rule

regulatory [ˈregjulətəri] – adj. restricting according to rules or principles: a regulatory gene

rehabilitation [ˈri:(h)ə.biliˈteiʃən] – n. the restoration of someone to a useful place in society

rehearsal [riˈhə:sl] – n. a practice session in preparation for a public performance (as of a play or speech or concert): he missed too many rehearsals

reign [rein] – n. a period during which something or somebody is dominant or powerful: he was helpless under the reign of his egotism

reinforce [.ri:inˈfɔ:s] – v. make stronger: he reinforced the concrete

reject [riˈdʒekt] – v. refuse to accept or acknowledge: I reject the idea of starting a war

rejection [riˈdʒekʃən] – n. the state of being rejected

relate [riˈleit] – v. make a logical or causal connection: I cannot relate these events at all

related [riˈleitid] – adj. being connected either logically or causally or by shared characteristics: painting and the related arts

relation [riˈleiʃən] – n. an abstraction belonging to or characteristic of two entities or parts together

relationship [riˈleiʃənʃip] – n. a state of connectedness between people (especially an emotional connection): he didn’t want his wife to know of the relationship

relative [ˈrelətiv] – n. a person related by blood or marriage: police are searching for relatives of the deceased

relatively [ˈrelətivli] – adv. in a relative manner; by comparison to something else: the situation is relatively calm now

relax [riˈlæks] – v. become less tense, rest, or take one’s ease: He relaxed in the hot tub

relaxation [.ri:lækˈseiʃən] – n. (physiology) the gradual lengthening of inactive muscle or muscle fibers

release [riˈli:s] – n. merchandise issued for sale or public showing (especially a record or film): a new release from the London Symphony Orchestra

relevance [ˈrelivəns] – n. the relation of something to the matter at hand

relevant [ˈrelivənt] – adj. having a bearing on or connection with the subject at issue: the scientist corresponds with colleagues in order to learn about matters relevant to her own research

reliable [riˈlaiəbl] – adj. worthy of being depended on: a reliable sourcSFLe of information

reliance [riˈlaiəns] – n. certainty based on past experience: he wrote the paper with considerable reliance on the work of other scientists

relief [riˈli:f] – n. the feeling that comes when something burdensome is removed or reduced: as he heard the news he was suddenly flooded with relief

relieve [riˈli:v] – v. free someone temporarily from his or her obligations

religion [riˈlidʒən] – n. a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny

religious [riˈlidʒəs] – adj. having or showing belief in and reverence for a deity: a religious man

reluctance [riˈlʌktəns] – n. (physics) opposition to magnetic flux (analogous to electric resistance)

reluctant [riˈlʌktənt] – adj. unwillingness to do something contrary to your custom: a reluctant smile

reluctantly  – adv. with reluctance

rely [riˈlai] – v. have confidence or faith in

remain [riˈmein] – v. continue in a place, position, or situation: despite student protests, he remained Dean for another year

remainder [riˈmeində] – n. something left after other parts have been taken away: there was no remainder

remaining [riˈmeiniŋ] – adj. not used up: saved the remaining sandwiches for supper

remark [riˈmɑ:k] – n. a statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information

remarkable [riˈmɑ:kəbl] – adj. unusual or striking: a remarkable sight

remarkably [riˈmɑ:kəb(ə)li] – adv. in a signal manner

remedy [ˈremidi] – n. act of correcting an error or a fault or an evil

remember [riˈmembə] – v. recall knowledge from memory; have a recollection: I can’t remember saying any such thing

remind [riˈmaind] – v. put in the mind of someone

reminder [riˈmaində] – n. a message that helps you remember something: he ignored his wife’s reminders

remote [riˈməut] – adj. located far away spatially: remote stars

removal [riˈmu:vəl] – n. dismissal from office

remove [riˈmu:v] – v. dispose of

Renaissance  – n. the revival of learning and culture

render [ˈrendə] – v. cause to become: The shot rendered her immobile

renew [riˈnju:] – v. reestablish on a new, usually improved, basis or make new or like new: We renewed our friendship after a hiatus of twenty years

renewal [riˈnju:əl] – n. the conversion of wasteland into land suitable for use of habitation or cultivation

renewed  – adj. restored to a new condition: felt renewed strength

rent [rent] – n. a payment or series of payments made by the lessee to an owner for use of some property, facility, equipment, or service

repair [riˈpɛə] – v. make amends for; pay compensation for: One can never fully repair the suffering and losses of the Jews in the Third Reich

repay [riˈpei] – v. pay back

repayment [riˈpeimənt] – n. the act of returning money received previously

repeat [riˈpi:t] – v. to say, state, or perform again

repeatedly [riˈpi:tidli] – adv. several time: it must be washed repeatedly

repetition [.repiˈtiʃən] – n. an event that repeats

replace [riˈpleis] – v. take the place or move into the position of: Smith replaced Miller as CEO after Miller left

replacement [riˈpleismənt] – n. the act of furnishing an equivalent person or thing in the place of another

reply [riˈplai] – n. the speech act of continuing a conversational exchange: he growled his reply

report [riˈpɔ:t] – n. a written document describing the findings of some individual or group

reportedly  – adv. according to reports or other information: she was reportedly his mistress for many years

reporter [riˈpɔ:tə] – n. a person who investigates and reports or edits news stories

represent [.repriˈzent] – v. take the place of or be parallel or equivalent to

representation [.reprizenˈteiʃən] – n. a presentation to the mind in the form of an idea or image

representative [repriˈzentətiv] – n. an advocate who represents someone else’s policy or purpose

reproduce [.ri:prəˈdju:s] – v. make a copy or equivalent of: reproduce the painting

reproduction [.ri:prəˈdʌkʃən] – n. the process of generating offspring

republic [riˈpʌblik] – n. a political system in which the supreme power lies in a body of citizens who can elect people to represent them

republican [riˈpʌblikən] – n. a member of the Republican Party

reputation [.repjuˈteiʃən] – n. the state of being held in high esteem and honor

request [riˈkwest] – v. express the need or desire for; ask for: She requested an extra bed in her room

require [riˈkwaiə] – v. consider obligatory; request and expect: We require our secretary to be on time

required  – adj. necessary for relief or supply

requirement [riˈkwaiəmənt] – n. anything indispensable: allow farmers to buy their requirements under favorable conditions

rescue [ˈreskju:] – v. free from harm or evil

research [riˈsə:tʃ] – n. systematic investigation to establish facts

researcher [ri:ˈsə:tʃə] – n. a scientist who devotes himself to doing research

resemble [riˈzembl] – v. appear like; be similar or bear a likeness to: She resembles her mother very much

resent [riˈzent] – v. feel bitter or indignant about: She resents being paid less than her co-workers

resentment [riˈzentmənt] – n. a feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will

reservation [.rezəˈveiʃən] – n. a statement that limits or restricts some claim: he recommended her without any reservations

reservoir [ˈrezəvwɑ:] – n. a large or extra supply of something: a reservoir of talent

residence [ˈrezidəns] – n. any address at which you dwell more than temporarily: a person can have several residences

resident [ˈrezidənt] – n. someone who lives at a particular place for a prolonged period or who was born there

residential [.reziˈdenʃəl] – adj. of or relating to or connected with residence: a residential requirement for the doctorate

residue [ˈrezidju:] – n. matter that remains after something has been removed

resign [riˈzain] – v. leave (a job, post, or position) voluntarily: The chairman resigned when he was found to have misappropriated funds

resignation [.rezigˈneiʃən] – n. acceptance of despair

resist [riˈzist] – v. elude, especially in a baffling way

resistance [riˈzistəns] – n. the action of opposing something that you disapprove or disagree with: he encountered a general feeling of resistance from many citizens

resolution [.rezəˈlu:ʃən] – n. a formal expression by a meeting; agreed to by a vote

resort [riˈzɔ:t] – n. a frequently visited place

resource [riˈsɔ:s] – n. available source of wealth; a new or reserve supply that can be drawn upon when needed

respect [riˈspekt] – n. (usually preceded by `in’) a detail or point: it differs in that respect

respectable [risˈpektəbl] – adj. characterized by socially or conventionally acceptable morals: a respectable woman

respective [riˈspektiv] – adj. considered individually: the respective club members

respectively [riˈspektivli] – adv. in the order given: the brothers were called Felix and Max, respectively

respond [riˈspɔnd] – v. react verbally

respondent [riˈspɔndənt] – n. someone who responds

response [riˈspɔns] – n. a result: this situation developed in response to events in Africa

responsibility [ri.spɔnsəˈbiliti] – n. the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force: every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty

responsible [riˈspɔnsəbl] – adj. being the agent or cause: determined who was the responsible party

rest [rest] – v. take a short break from one’s activities in order to relax

restaurant [ˈrestərɔnt] – n. a building where people go to eat

restoration [ˈrestəˈreiʃən] – n. the reign of Charles II in England; 1660-1685

restore [riˈstɔ:] – v. return to its original or usable and functioning condition: restore the forest to its original pristine condition

restrain [riˈstrein] – v. keep under control; keep in check

restraint [riˈstreint] – n. discipline in personal and social activities: he was a model of polite restraint

restrict [riˈstrikt] – v. place limits on (extent or access): restrict the use of this parking lot

restriction [risˈtrikʃən] – n. a principle that limits the extent of something: I am willing to accept certain restrictions on my movements

restrictive [risˈtriktiv] – adj. (of tariff) protective of national interests by restricting imports

result [riˈzʌlt] – n. a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

resume [riˈzju:m] – v. take up or begin anew: We resumed the negotiations

retail [ˈri:teil] – n. the selling of goods to consumers; usually in small quantities and not for resale

retailer [ˈri:teilə,riˈteilə] – n. a merchant who sells goods at retail

retain [riˈtein] – v. hold back within: This soil retains water

retention [riˈtenʃən] – n. the act of retaining something

retire [riˈtaiə] – v. withdraw from active participation: He retired from chess

retired  – adj. no longer active in your work or profession

retirement [riˈtaiəmənt] – n. withdrawal from your position or occupation

retreat [riˈtri:t] – n. (military) withdrawal of troops to a more favorable position to escape the enemy’s superior forces or after a defeat: the disorderly retreat of French troops

retrieve [riˈtri:v] – v. get or find back; recover the use of

return [riˈtə:n] – v. go or come back to place, condition, or activity where one has been before: return to your native land

reveal [riˈvi:l] – v. make visible

revelation [.revəˈleiʃən] – n. the speech act of making something evident

revenge [riˈvendʒ] – n. action taken in return for an injury or offense

revenue [ˈrevinju:] – n. the entire amount of income before any deductions are made

reverse [riˈvə:s] – n. a relation of direct opposition: we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true

revert [riˈvə:t] – v. undergo reversion, as in a mutation

review [riˈvju:] – n. a new appraisal or evaluation

revise [riˈvaiz] – v. make revisions in: revise a thesis

revised  – adj. improved or brought up to date: a revised edition

revision [riˈviʒən] – n. the act of rewriting something

revival [riˈvaivəl] – n. bringing again into activity and prominence: the revival of trade

revive [riˈvaiv] – v. cause to regain consciousness: The doctors revived the comatose man

revolution [.revəˈlu:ʃən] – n. a drastic and far-reaching change in ways of thinking and behaving: the industrial revolution was also a cultural revolution

revolutionary [.revəˈlu:ʃənəri] – adj. markedly new or introducing radical change: a revolutionary discovery

reward [riˈwɔ:d] – n. a recompense for worthy acts or retribution for wrongdoing: virtue is its own reward

rhetoric [ˈretərik] – n. using language effectively to please or persuade

rhythm [ˈriðəm] – n. recurring at regular intervals

rib [rib] – n. a teasing remark

ribbon [ˈribən] – n. any long object resembling a thin line: a mere ribbon of land

rice [rais] – n. grains used as food either unpolished or more often polished

rich [ritʃ] – adj. having an abundant supply of desirable qualities or substances (especially natural resources): blessed with a land rich in minerals

rid [rid] – v. relieve from

ride [raid] – v. sit and travel on the back of animal, usually while controlling its motions: Did you ever ride a camel?

rider  – n. a clause that is appended to a legislative bill

ridge [ridʒ] – n. a long narrow natural elevation or striation

ridiculous [riˈdikjuləs] – adj. inspiring scornful pity

rifle [ˈraifl] – v. steal goods; take as spoils

right [rait] – adj. being or located on or directed toward the side of the body to the east when facing north: my right hand

rightly  – adv. with honesty: he was rightly considered the greatest singer of his time

rigid [ˈridʒid] – adj. incapable of or resistant to bending: a rigid strip of metal

ring [riŋ] – n. a toroidal shape: a ring of ships in the harbor

riot [ˈraiət] – n. a public act of violence by an unruly mob

rip [rip] – n. a dissolute man in fashionable society

rise [raiz] – v. move upward

rising  – adj. advancing or becoming higher or greater in degree or value or status: a rising trend

risk [risk] – n. a venture undertaken without regard to possible loss or injury: he saw the rewards but not the risks of crime

ritual [ˈritjuəl] – n. any customary observance or practice

rival [ˈraivəl] – v. be equal to in quality or ability: Nothing can rival cotton for durability

river [ˈrivə] – n. a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek): the river was navigable for 50 miles

road [rəud] – n. an open way (generally public) for travel or transportation

roar [rɔ:] – v. make a loud noise, as of wind, water, or vehicles: The water roared down the chute

rob [rɔb] – v. take something away by force or without the consent of the owner: The burglars robbed him of all his money

robbery [ˈrɔbəri] – n. larceny by threat of violence

rock [rɔk] – n. a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter: he threw a rock at me

rocket [ˈrɔkit] – n. a jet engine containing its own propellant and driven by reaction propulsion

rod [rɔd] – n. a long thin implement made of metal or wood

role [rəul] – n. an actor’s portrayal of someone in a play

roll [rəul] – v. move along on or as if on wheels or a wheeled vehicle: The President’s convoy rolled past the crowds

romance [rəuˈmæns] – n. a relationship between two lovers

romantic [rəˈmæntik] – adj. belonging to or characteristic of Romanticism or the Romantic Movement in the arts: romantic poetry

roof [ru:f] – n. protective covering on top of a motor vehicle

room [ru:m] – n. an area within a building enclosed by walls and floor and ceiling: the rooms were very small but they had a nice view

root [ru:t] – n. the place where something begins, where it springs into being: communism’s Russian root

rope [rəup] – n. street names for flunitrazepan

rose [rəuz] – n. pinkish table wine from red grapes whose skins were removed after fermentation began

rotation [rəuˈteiʃən] – n. (mathematics) a transformation in which the coordinate axes are rotated by a fixed angle about the origin

rotten [ˈrɔtn] – adj. very bad

rough [rʌf] – adj. having or caused by an irregular surface: trees with rough bark

roughly [ˈrʌfli] – adv. (of quantities) imprecise but fairly close to correct: roughly $3,000

round [raund] – n. a charge of ammunition for a single shot

route [ru:t] – v. send documents or materials to appropriate destinations

routine [ru:ˈti:n] – n. an unvarying or habitual method or procedure

row [rəu,rau] – n. an arrangement of objects or people side by side in a line: a row of chairs

royal [ˈrɔiəl] – adj. of or relating to or indicative of or issued or performed by a king or queen or other monarch: the royal party

royalty [ˈrɔiəlti] – n. payment to the holder of a patent or copyright or resource for the right to use their property

rub [rʌb] – v. move over something with pressure: rub my hands

rubber [ˈrʌbə] – n. a waterproof overshoe that protects shoes from water or snow

rubbish [ˈrʌbiʃ] – n. worthless material that is to be disposed of

rude [ru:d] – adj. socially incorrect in behavior

rug [rʌg] – n. floor covering consisting of a piece of thick heavy fabric (usually with nap or pile)

rugby [ˈrʌgbi] – n. a form of football played with an oval ball

ruin [ˈruin] – n. an irrecoverable state of devastation and destruction: you have brought ruin on this entire family

rule [ru:l] – n. a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior: it was his rule to take a walk before breakfast

ruler [ˈru:lə] – n. a person who rules or commands

ruling [ˈru:liŋ] – n. the reason for a court’s judgment (as opposed to the decision itself)

rumour  – n. gossip (usually a mixture of truth and untruth) passed around by word of mouth

run [rʌn] – v. move fast by using one’s feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time: Don’t run–you’ll be out of breath

runner [ˈrʌnə(r)] – n. someone who imports or exports without paying duties

running [ˈrʌniŋ] – adj. (of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream: as mountain stream with freely running water

rural [ˈru:rəl] – adj. living in or characteristic of farming or country life: rural people

rush [rʌʃ] – n. the act of moving hurriedly and in a careless manner

sack [sæk] – n. a bag made of paper or plastic for holding customer’s purchases

sacred [ˈseikrid] – adj. concerned with religion or religious purposes: sacred texts

sacrifice [ˈsækrifais] – n. the act of losing or surrendering something as a penalty for a mistake or fault or failure to perform etc.

sad [sæd] – adj. experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness: feeling sad because his dog had died

sadly [ˈsædli] – adv. in an unfortunate way: sadly he died before he could see his grandchild

safe [seif] – adj. free from danger or the risk of harm: a safe trip

safely [ˈseifli] – adv. with safety; in a safe manner: we are safely out of there

safety [ˈseifti] – n. the state of being certain that adverse effects will not be caused by some agent under defined conditions: insure the safety of the children

sail [seil] – v. traverse or travel on (a body of water): We sailed the Atlantic

sailor [ˈseilə] – n. any member of a ship’s crew

saint [seint] – n. person of exceptional holiness

sake [seik] – n. a reason for wanting something done: for your sake

salad [ˈsæləd] – n. food mixtures either arranged on a plate or tossed and served with a moist dressing; usually consisting of or including greens

salary [ˈsæləri] – n. something that remunerates

sale [seil] – n. a particular instance of selling: he has just made his first sale

salmon [ˈsæmən] – n. a tributary of the Snake River in Idaho

salon [ˈsælɔn] – n. gallery where works of art can be displayed

salt [sɔ:lt] – n. a compound formed by replacing hydrogen in an acid by a metal (or a radical that acts like a metal)

salvation [sælˈveiʃən] – n. (theology) the act of delivering from sin or saving from evil

sample [ˈsæmpl] – n. a small part of something intended as representative of the whole

sanction [ˈsæŋkʃən] – n. formal and explicit approval

sanctuary [ˈsæŋktjuəri] – n. a consecrated place where sacred objects are kept

sand [sænd] – n. a loose material consisting of grains of rock or coral

sandwich [ˈsændwitʃ] – v. insert or squeeze tightly between two people or objects: She was sandwiched in her airplane seat between two fat men

satellite [ˈsætəlait] – n. man-made equipment that orbits around the earth or the moon

satisfaction [.sætisˈfækʃən] – n. the contentment one feels when one has fulfilled a desire, need, or expectation: the chef tasted the sauce with great satisfaction

satisfactory [.sætisˈfæktəri] – adj. meeting requirements: the step makes a satisfactory seat

satisfied  – adj. allayed

satisfy [ˈsætisfai] – v. meet the requirements or expectations of

sauce [sɔ:s] – v. dress (food) with a relish

sausage [ˈsɔ:sidʒ] – n. highly seasoned minced meat stuffed in casings

save [seiv] – v. to keep up and reserve for personal or special use: She saved the old family photographs in a drawer

saving [ˈseiviŋ] – n. an act of economizing; reduction in cost: there was a saving of 50 cents

say [sei] – v. express in words

scale [skeil] – n. an ordered reference standard: judging on a scale of 1 to 10

scan [skæn] – v. examine minutely or intensely: the surgeon scanned the X-ray

scandal [ˈskændl] – n. disgraceful gossip about the private lives of other people

scar [skɑ:] – n. a mark left (usually on the skin) by the healing of injured tissue

scarcely [ˈskɛəsli] – adv. only a very short time before: had scarcely rung the bell when the door flew open

scared [skeəd] – adj. made afraid: too shocked and scared to move

scatter [ˈskætə] – v. to cause to separate and go in different directions: She waved her hand and scattered the crowds

scenario [siˈnɑ:riəu] – n. an outline or synopsis of a play (or, by extension, of a literary work)

scene [si:n] – n. the place where some action occurs: the police returned to the scene of the crime

scent [sent] – n. a distinctive odor that is pleasant

schedule [ˈskedʒul] – n. a temporally organized plan for matters to be attended to

scheme [ski:m] – n. an elaborate and systematic plan of action

scholar [ˈskɔlə] – n. a learned person (especially in the humanities); someone who by long study has gained mastery in one or more disciplines

scholarship [ˈskɔləʃip] – n. financial aid provided to a student on the basis of academic merit

school [sku:l] – n. an educational institution: the school was founded in 1900

science [ˈsaiəns] – n. ability to produce solutions in some problem domain: the sweet science of pugilism

scientific [.saiənˈtifik] – adj. conforming with the principles or methods used in science: a scientific approach

scientist [ˈsaiəntist] – n. a person with advanced knowledge of one or more sciences

scope [skəup] – n. an area in which something acts or operates or has power or control:: within the scope of an investigation

score [skɔ:] – n. a number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student’s performance): what was your score on your homework?

scramble [ˈskræmbl] – v. to move hurriedly: The friend scrambled after them

scrap [skræp] – n. a small fragment of something broken off from the whole

scrape [skreip] – v. make by scraping: They scraped a letter into the stone

scratch [skrætʃ] – n. an abraded area where the skin is torn or worn off

scream [skri:m] – n. sharp piercing cry: her screaming attracted the neighbors

screen [skri:n] – n. a white or silvered surface where pictures can be projected for viewing

screw [skru:] – n. someone who guards prisoners

script [skript] – n. a written version of a play or other dramatic composition; used in preparing for a performance

scrutiny [ˈskru:tini] – n. the act of examining something closely (as for mistakes)

sculpture [ˈskʌlptʃə] – n. a three-dimensional work of plastic art

sea [si:] – n. anything apparently limitless in quantity or volume

seal [si:l] – n. a device incised to make an impression; used to secure a closing or to authenticate documents

search [sə:tʃ] – n. the activity of looking thoroughly in order to find something or someone

season [ˈsi:zn] – n. a period of the year marked by special events or activities in some field: he celebrated his 10th season with the ballet company

seasonal [ˈsi:zənl] – n. a worker who finds employment only in certain seasons

seat [si:t] – n. the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on

second [ˈsekənd] – n. 1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d’Unites

secondary [ˈsekənderi] – adj. inferior in rank or status

secondly [ˈsekəndli] – adv. in the second place

secret [ˈsi:krit] – adj. not open or public; kept private or not revealed: a secret formula

secretary [ˈsekrətri] – n. a person who is head of an administrative department of government

secretion [siˈkri:ʃən] – n. the organic process of synthesizing and releasing some substance

section [ˈsekʃən] – n. a self-contained part of a larger composition (written or musical): he always turns first to the business section

sector [ˈsektə] – n. a plane figure bounded by two radii and the included arc of a circle

secular [ˈsekjulə] – adj. of or relating to the doctrine that rejects religion and religious considerations

secure [siˈkjuə] – v. get by special effort

security [siˈkju:riti] – n. the state of being free from danger or injury: we support the armed services in the name of national security

sediment [ˈsedimənt] – n. matter that has been deposited by some natural process

see [si:] – v. perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight: You have to be a good observer to see all the details

seed [si:d] – v. distribute (players or teams) so that outstanding teams or players will not meet in the early rounds

seek [si:k] – v. try to get or reach: seek a position

seem [si:m] – v. give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect: She seems to be sleeping

seemingly [ˈsi:miŋli] – adv. from appearances alone: the child is seemingly healthy but the doctor is concerned

segment [ˈsegmənt] – n. one of several parts or pieces that fit with others to constitute a whole object: finished the final segment of the road

seize [si:z] – v. take hold of; grab: The sales clerk quickly seized the money on the counter

seldom [ˈseldəm] – adv. not often

select [siˈlekt] – adj. of superior grade: select peaches

selection [siˈlekʃən] – n. an assortment of things from which a choice can be made: the store carried a large selection of shoes

selective [siˈlektiv] – adj. characterized by very careful or fastidious selection: the school was very selective in its admissions

self [self] – n. your consciousness of your own identity

sell [sel] – v. exchange or deliver for money or its equivalent: She sells her body to survive and support her drug habit

seller [ˈselə] – n. someone who promotes or exchanges goods or services for money

semantic  – adj. of or relating to meaning or the study of meaning: semantic analysis

seminar [ˈseminɑ:] – n. any meeting for an exchange of ideas

senate [ˈsenit] – n. assembly possessing high legislative powers

send [send] – v. to cause or order to be taken, directed, or transmitted to another place

senior [ˈsi:njə] – adj. older; higher in rank; longer in length of tenure or service: senior officer

sensation [senˈseiʃən] – n. an unelaborated elementary awareness of stimulation: a sensation of touch

sense [sens] – n. a general conscious awareness: a sense of security

sensible [ˈsensəbl] – adj. showing reason or sound judgment: a sensible choice

sensitive [ˈsensitiv] – adj. responsive to physical stimuli: a mimosa’s leaves are sensitive to touch

sensitivity [ˈsensiˈtiviti] – n. (physiology) responsiveness to external stimuli; the faculty of sensation: sensitivity to pain

sentence [ˈsentəns] – n. a string of words satisfying the grammatical rules of a language: he always spoke in grammatical sentences

sentiment [ˈsentimənt] – n. tender, romantic, or nostalgic feeling or emotion

separate [ˈsepəreit] – v. act as a barrier between; stand between

separately [ˈsepərətli] – adv. apart from others

separation [sepəˈreiʃən] – n. the state of lacking unity

sequence [ˈsi:kwəns] – n. serial arrangement in which things follow in logical order or a recurrent pattern: the sequence of names was alphabetical

sergeant [ˈsɑ:dʒənt] – n. any of several noncommissioned officer ranks in the Army or Air Force or Marines ranking above a corporal

series [ˈsiəri:z] – n. similar things placed in order or happening one after another: they were investigating a series of bank robberies

serious [ˈsiəriəs] – adj. concerned with work or important matters rather than play or trivialities: a serious student of history

seriously [ˈsiəriəsli] – adv. to a severe or serious degree: was seriously ill

serum [ˈsiərəm] – n. an amber, watery fluid, rich in proteins, that separates out when blood coagulates

servant [ˈsə:vənt] – n. in a subordinate position: the state cannot be a servant of the church

serve [sə:v] – v. contribute or conduce to: The scandal served to increase his popularity

server  – n. (court games) the player who serves to start a point

service [ˈsə:vis] – n. work done by one person or group that benefits another: budget separately for goods and services

session [ˈseʃən] – n. a meeting for execution of a group’s functions: it was the opening session of the legislature

set [set] – v. put into a certain place or abstract location

setting [ˈsetiŋ] – n. the context and environment in which something is set: the perfect setting for a ghost story

settle [ˈsetl] – v. take up residence and become established: The immigrants settled in the Midwest

settlement [ˈsetlmənt] – n. a community of people smaller than a town

severe [siˈviə] – adj. intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality: severe pain

severely [siˈviəli] – adv. with sternness; in a severe manner: peered severely over her glasses

sex [seks] – n. either of the two categories (male or female) into which most organisms are divided: the war between the sexes

sexual [ˈseksjuəl] – adj. having or involving sex: sexual reproduction

sexuality [.seksjuˈæliti] – n. the properties that distinguish organisms on the basis of their reproductive roles

sexually  – adv. by sexual means: reproduce sexually

shade [ʃeid] – n. relative darkness caused by light rays being intercepted by an opaque body: it is much cooler in the shade

shadow [ˈʃædəu] – n. an unilluminated area

shaft [ʃɑ:ft] – n. a line that forms the length of an arrow pointer

shake [ʃeik] – v. move or cause to move back and forth

shallow [ˈʃæləu] – adj. not deep or strong; not affecting one deeply: shallow breathing

shame [ʃeim] – v. surpass or beat by a wide margin

shape [ʃeip] – n. any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline): he could barely make out their shapes

share [ʃɛə] – n. assets belonging to or due to or contributed by an individual person or group: he wanted his share in cash

shared  – adj. have in common; held or experienced in common: two shared valence electrons forming a bond between adjacent nuclei

shareholder [ˈʃɛə.həuldə] – n. someone who holds shares of stock in a corporation

sharp [ʃɑ:p] – adj. (of something seen or heard) clearly defined: a sharp photographic image

sharply [ˈʃɑ:pli] – adv. in an aggressive manner: she was being sharply questioned

shatter [ˈʃætə] – v. break into many pieces: The wine glass shattered

shed [ʃed] – v. get rid of: he shed his image as a pushy boss

sheep [ʃi:p] – n. woolly usually horned ruminant mammal related to the goat

sheer [ʃiə] – adj. complete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as intensifiers: got the job through sheer persistence

sheet [ʃi:t] – n. any broad thin expanse or surface: a sheet of ice

shelf [ʃelf] – n. a support that consists of a horizontal surface for holding objects

shell [ʃel] – n. the material that forms the hard outer covering of many animals

shelter [ˈʃeltə] – n. a structure that provides privacy and protection from danger

shield [ˈʃi:ld] – n. a protective covering or structure

shift [ʃift] – v. change place or direction

shilling [ˈʃiliŋ] – n. the basic unit of money in Uganda; equal to 100 cents

shine [ʃain] – v. be bright by reflecting or casting light

ship [ʃip] – v. transport commercially

shirt [ʃə:t] – n. a garment worn on the upper half of the body

shit [ʃit] – n. obscene terms for feces

shiver [ˈʃivə] – n. a reflex motion caused by cold or fear or excitement

shock [ʃɔk] – n. the feeling of distress and disbelief that you have when something bad happens accidentally: he was numb with shock

shoe [ʃu:] – n. (card games) a case from which playing cards are dealt one at a time

shoot [ʃu:t] – v. hit with a missile from a weapon

shop [ʃɔp] – v. give away information about somebody

shopping [ˈʃɔpiŋ] – n. searching for or buying goods or services: went shopping for a reliable plumber

shore [ʃɔ:] – v. support by placing against something solid or rigid: shore and buttress an old building

short [ʃɔ:t] – adj. primarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration: a short life

shortage [ˈʃɔ:tidʒ] – n. the property of being an amount by which something is less than expected or required

shortly [ˈʃɔ:tli] – adv. in the near future: the book will appear shortly

short-term  – adj. relating to or extending over a limited period: a short-term lease

shot [ʃɔt] – n. the act of firing a projectile

shoulder [ˈʃəuldə] – n. the part of the body between the neck and the upper arm

shout [ʃaut] – v. utter in a loud voice; talk in a loud voice (usually denoting characteristic manner of speaking): My grandmother is hard of hearing–you’ll have to shout

show [ʃəu] – v. give an exhibition of to an interested audience: She shows her dogs frequently

shower [ˈʃauə] – n. a plumbing fixture that sprays water over you: they installed a shower in the bathroom

shrink [ʃriŋk] – v. wither, as with a loss of moisture

shrub [ʃrʌb] – n. a low woody perennial plant usually having several major stems

shrug [ʃrʌg] – n. a gesture involving the shoulders

shut [ʃʌt] – v. become closed

shy [ʃai] – adj. lacking self-confidence

sick [sik] – adj. feeling nausea; feeling about to vomit

sickness [ˈsiknis] – n. impairment of normal physiological function affecting part or all of an organism

side [said] – n. a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location: they always sat on the right side of the church

sideways [ˈsaidweiz] – adv. from the side; obliquely: a picture lit sideways

siege [si:dʒ] – n. the action of an armed force that surrounds a fortified place and isolates it while continuing to attack

sigh [sai] – n. an utterance made by exhaling audibly

sight [sait] – n. an instance of visual perception: the sight of his wife brought him back to reality

sign [sain] – n. a public display of a message: he posted signs in all the shop windows

signal [ˈsignəl] – n. any nonverbal action or gesture that encodes a message: signals from the boat suddenly stopped

signature [ˈsignitʃə] – n. your name written in your own handwriting

significance [sigˈnifikəns] – n. a meaning that is not expressly stated but can be inferred: the significance of his remark became clear only later

significant [sigˈnifikənt] – adj. important in effect or meaning: a significant change in tax laws

significantly  – adv. in a significant manner: our budget will be significantly affected by these new cuts

silence [ˈsailəns] – n. the absence of sound: he needed silence in order to sleep

silent [ˈsailənt] – adj. marked by absence of sound: a silent house

silently  – adv. without speaking

silk [silk] – n. a fabric made from the fine threads produced by certain insect larvae

silly [ˈsili] – adj. ludicrous, foolish: a silly idea

silver [ˈsilvə] – n. a light shade of grey

similar [ˈsimilə] – adj. marked by correspondence or resemblance: similar food at similar prices

similarity [.simiˈlæriti] – n. the quality of being similar

similarly [ˈsimiləli] – adv. in like or similar manner: He was similarly affected

simple [ˈsimpl] – adj. having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved: a simple problem

simplicity [simˈplisiti] – n. a lack of penetration or subtlety: they took advantage of her simplicity

simply [ˈsimpli] – adv. and nothing more: it is simply a matter of time

simultaneously [saiməlˈteiniəsli] – adv. at the same instant: they spoke simultaneously

sin [sin] – n. estrangement from god

sincerely [sinˈsiəli] – adv. written formula for ending a letter

sing [siŋ] – v. produce tones with the voice: She was singing while she was cooking

singer [ˈsiŋə] – n. United States inventor of an improved chain-stitch sewing machine (1811-1875)

single [ˈsiŋgl] – adj. used of flowers having usually only one row or whorl of petals: single chrysanthemums resemble daisies and may have more than one row of petals

sink [siŋk] – v. fall or descend to a lower place or level

sip [sip] – n. a small drink

sir [sə:] – n. term of address for a man

sister [ˈsistə] – n. a female person who has the same parents as another person: my sister married a musician

sit [sit] – v. be seated

site [sait] – n. the piece of land on which something is located (or is to be located): a good site for the school

situate [ˈsitjueit] – v. determine or indicate the place, site, or limits of, as if by an instrument or by a survey

situation [.sitjuˈeiʃən] – n. the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time: the present international situation is dangerous

size [saiz] – n. the property resulting from being one of a series of graduated measurements (as of clothing): he wears a size 13 shoe

skeleton [ˈskelitn] – n. something reduced to its minimal form: the battalion was a mere skeleton of its former self

sketch [sketʃ] – n. preliminary drawing for later elaboration

ski [ski:] – n. narrow wood or metal or plastic runners used in pairs for gliding over snow

skill [ˈskil] – n. an ability that has been acquired by training

skin [skin] – n. a natural protective body covering and site of the sense of touch: your skin is the largest organ of your body

skipper  – n. a student who fails to attend classes

skirt [skə:t] – n. cloth covering that forms the part of a garment below the waist

skull [skʌl] – n. the bony skeleton of the head of vertebrates

sky [skai] – n. the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth

slab [slæb] – n. block consisting of a thick piece of something

slam [slæm] – n. winning all or all but one of the tricks in bridge

slap [slæp] – n. a blow from a flat object (as an open hand)

slave [sleiv] – n. a person who is owned by someone

sleep [sli:p] – n. a natural and periodic state of rest during which consciousness of the world is suspended: he didn’t get enough sleep last night

sleeping  – n. quiet and inactive restfulness

sleeve [sli:v] – n. the part of a garment that is attached at the armhole and that provides a cloth covering for the arm

slice [slais] – n. a share of something: a slice of the company’s revenue

slide [slaid] – n. a small flat rectangular piece of glass on which specimens can be mounted for microscopic study

slight [slait] – adj. (quantifier used with mass nouns) small in quantity or degree; not much or almost none or (with `a’) at least some: there’s slight chance that it will work

slightly [ˈslaitli] – adv. to a small degree or extent: the children argued because one slice of cake was slightly larger than the other

slim [slim] – adj. small in quantity: a slim chance of winning

slip [slip] – n. a socially awkward or tactless act

slogan [ˈsləugən] – n. a favorite saying of a sect or political group

slope [sləup] – n. an elevated geological formation: he climbed the steep slope

slot [slɔt] – n. a position in a grammatical linguistic construction in which a variety of alternative units are interchangeable: he developed a version of slot grammar

slow [sləu] – adj. not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time: a slow walker

slowly [ˈsləʊli] – adv. in music

slump [slʌmp] – v. assume a drooping posture or carriage

small [smɔ:l] – adj. limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent: a small car

smart [smɑ:t] – adj. showing mental alertness and calculation and resourcefulness

smash [smæʃ] – v. hit hard: He smashed a 3-run homer

smell [smel] – n. the sensation that results when olfactory receptors in the nose are stimulated by particular chemicals in gaseous form: she loved the smell of roses

smile [smail] – v. change one’s facial expression by spreading the lips, often to signal pleasure

smoke [sməuk] – n. a cloud of fine particles suspended in a gas

smooth [smu:ð] – adj. having a surface free from roughness or bumps or ridges or irregularities: smooth skin

smoothly [ˈsmu:ðli] – adv. with no problems or difficulties: put the plans into effect quickly and smoothly

snake [sneik] – n. limbless scaly elongate reptile; some are venomous

snap [snæp] – n. the act of catching an object with the hands: the infielder’s snap and throw was a single motion

snatch [snætʃ] – n. a small fragment: overheard snatches of their conversation

sniff [snif] – v. perceive by inhaling through the nose: sniff the perfume

snow [snəu] – n. precipitation falling from clouds in the form of ice crystals

so [səu] – adv. to a very great extent or degree: the idea is so obvious

soak [səuk] – v. submerge in a liquid: I soaked in the hot tub for an hour

soap [səup] – n. a cleansing agent made from the salts of vegetable or animal fats

soar [sɔ:] – v. rise rapidly: the dollar soared against the yen

so-called  – adj. doubtful or suspect: these so-called experts are no help

soccer [ˈsɔkə] – n. a football game in which two teams of 11 players try to kick or head a ball into the opponents’ goal

social [ˈsəuʃəl] – adj. living together or enjoying life in communities or organized groups: a human being is a social animal

socialism [ˈsəuʃəlizəm] – n. a political theory advocating state ownership of industry

socialist [ˈsəuʃəlist] – n. a political advocate of socialism

socially  – adv. in a social manner: socially unpopular

society [səˈsaiəti] – n. a formal association of people with similar interests: they formed a small lunch society

sociological  – adj. of or relating to or determined by sociology: sociological studies

sociology [.səusiˈɔlədʒi] – n. the study and classification of human societies

sock [sɔk] – n. hosiery consisting of a cloth covering for the foot; worn inside the shoe; reaches to between the ankle and the knee

socket [ˈsɔkit] – n. a bony hollow into which a structure fits

sodium [ˈsəudjəm, -diəm] – n. a silvery soft waxy metallic element of the alkali metal group; occurs abundantly in natural compounds (especially in salt water); burns with a yellow flame and reacts violently in water; occurs in sea water and in the mineral halite (rock salt)

sofa [ˈsəufə] – n. an upholstered seat for more than one person

soft [sɔft] – adj. yielding readily to pressure or weight

soften [ˈsɔ(:)fn] – v. lessen in force or effect: soften a shock

softly [ˈsɔftli] – adv. with low volume: speak softly but carry a big stick

software [ˈsɔftwɛə] – n. (computer science) written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory: the market for software is expected to expand

soil [sɔil] – n. the state of being covered with unclean things

solar [ˈsəulə] – adj. relating to or derived from the sun or utilizing the energies of the sun: solar eclipse

soldier [ˈsəuldʒə] – n. an enlisted man or woman who serves in an army: the soldiers stood at attention

sole [səul] – n. the underside of footwear or a golf club

solely [ˈsəu(l)li] – adv. without any others being included or involved: did it solely for money

solicitor [səˈlisitə] – n. a British lawyer who gives legal advice and prepares legal documents

solid [ˈsɔlid] – adj. characterized by good substantial quality: solid comfort

solidarity [.sɔliˈdæriti] – n. a union of interests or purposes or sympathies among members of a group

solo [ˈsəuləu] – n. any activity that is performed alone without assistance

solution [səˈlu:ʃən] – n. a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem: they were trying to find a peaceful solution

solve [sɔlv] – v. find the solution: solve an equation

solvent [ˈsɔlvənt] – n. a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem

somehow [ˈsʌmhau] – adv. for some unspecified reason: It doesn’t seem fair somehow

sometimes [ˈsʌmtaimz] – adv. on certain occasions or in certain cases but not always: sometimes she wished she were back in England

somewhat [ˈsʌmwɔt] – adv. to a small degree or extent: his arguments were somewhat self-contradictory

somewhere [ˈsʌmwɛə] – n. an indefinite or unknown location: they moved to somewhere in Spain

son [sʌn] – n. a male human offspring: their son became a famous judge

song [sɔŋ] – n. a short musical composition with words: a successful musical must have at least three good songs

soon [su:n] – adv. in the near future: the doctor will soon be here

sophisticated [səˈfistikeitid] – adj. having or appealing to those having worldly knowledge and refinement and savoir-faire: sophisticated young socialites

sore [sɔ:] – adj. hurting

sorry [ˈsɔri] – adj. bad; unfortunate: a sorry state of affairs

sort [sɔ:t] – n. an approximate definition or example: she wore a sort of magenta dress

soul [səul] – n. a human being

sound [saund] – adj. financially secure and safe: sound investments

soup [su:p] – n. liquid food especially of meat or fish or vegetable stock often containing pieces of solid food

source [sɔ:s] – n. the place where something begins, where it springs into being: Pittsburgh is the source of the Ohio River

south [sauθ] – n. the cardinal compass point that is at 180 degrees

southern [ˈsʌðən] – adj. situated in or oriented toward the south: a southern exposure

sovereignty [ˈsɔvrinti] – n. government free from external control

space [speis] – n. the unlimited expanse in which everything is located: they tested his ability to locate objects in space

spare [spɛə] – adj. thin and fit: the spare figure of a marathon runner

spatial [ˈspeiʃəl] – adj. pertaining to or involving or having the nature of space: the first dimension to concentrate on is the spatial one

speak [spi:k] – v. exchange thoughts; talk with

speaker [ˈspi:kə] – n. electro-acoustic transducer that converts electrical signals into sounds loud enough to be heard at a distance

special [ˈspeʃəl] – adj. unique or specific to a person or thing or category: the special features of a computer

specialise  – v. be specific about

specialist [ˈspeʃəlist] – n. an expert who is devoted to one occupation or branch of learning

specially [ˈspeʃəli] – adv. to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common: an especially (or specially) cautious approach to the danger

species [ˈspi:ʃi:z] – n. (biology) taxonomic group whose members can interbreed

specific [spiˈsifik] – adj. stated explicitly or in detail: needed a specific amount

specifically [spiˈsifikəli] – adv. in distinction from others: a program specifically for teenagers

specification [.spesifiˈkeiʃən] – n. a detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work

specified [ˈspesifaid] – adj. clearly and explicitly stated: meals are at specified times

specify [ˈspesifai] – v. decide upon or fix definitely: specify the parameters

specimen [ˈspesimən] – n. an example regarded as typical of its class

spectacle [ˈspektəkl] – n. something or someone seen (especially a notable or unusual sight): the tragic spectacle of cripples trying to escape

spectacular [spekˈtækjulə] – adj. sensational in appearance or thrilling in effect: a spectacular display of northern lights

spectator [spekˈteitə] – n. a close observer; someone who looks at something (such as an exhibition of some kind): the spectators applauded the performance

spectrum [ˈspektrəm] – n. an ordered array of the components of an emission or wave

speculation [.spekjuˈleiʃən] – n. a message expressing an opinion based on incomplete evidence

speech [spi:tʃ] – n. the act of delivering a formal spoken communication to an audience

speed [spi:d] – n. distance travelled per unit time

spell [spel] – v. indicate or signify: I’m afraid this spells trouble!

spelling [ˈspeliŋ] – n. forming words with letters according to the principles underlying accepted usage

spend [spend] – v. pay out: spend money

sphere [sfiə] – n. a particular environment or walk of life: his social sphere is limited

spider [ˈspaidə] – n. a computer program that prowls the internet looking for publicly accessible resources that can be added to a database; the database can then be searched with a search engine

spill [spil] – v. cause or allow (a liquid substance) to run or flow from a container: spill the milk

spin [spin] – v. revolve quickly and repeatedly around one’s own axis

spine [spain] – n. any sharply pointed projection

spirit [ˈspirit] – n. the vital principle or animating force within living things

spiritual [ˈspiritjuəl] – adj. concerned with sacred matters or religion or the church: lords temporal and spiritual

spit [spit] – n. a narrow strip of land that juts out into the sea

spite [spait] – n. feeling a need to see others suffer

splendid [ˈsplendid] – adj. very good;of the highest quality

split [split] – n. extending the legs at right angles to the trunk (one in front and the other in back)

spoil [spɔil] – v. make a mess of, destroy or ruin

spoken  – adj. uttered through the medium of speech or characterized by speech; sometimes used in combination: a spoken message

spokesman [ˈspəuksmən] – n. a male spokesperson

sponsor [ˈspɔnsə] – v. assume responsibility for or leadership of: The senator announced that he would sponsor the health care plan

sponsorship [ˈspɔnsəʃip] – n. the act of sponsoring (either officially or financially)

spontaneous [spɔnˈteiniəs] – adj. happening or arising without apparent external cause: spontaneous laughter

spoon [spu:n] – n. a piece of cutlery with a shallow bowl-shaped container and a handle; used to stir or serve or take up food

sport [spɔ:t] – n. an active diversion requiring physical exertion and competition

spot [spɔt] – n. a short section or illustration (as between radio or tv programs or in a magazine) that is often used for advertising

spouse [spauz] – n. a person’s partner in marriage

spray [sprei] – n. a quantity of small objects flying through the air: a spray of bullets

spread [spred] – n. process or result of distributing or extending over a wide expanse of space

spring [spriŋ] – n. the season of growth: the emerging buds were a sure sign of spring

spy [spai] – v. catch sight of

squad [skwɔd] – n. a smallest army unit

squadron [ˈskwɔdrən] – n. a cavalry unit consisting of two or more troops and headquarters and supporting arms

square [skwɛə] – n. (geometry) a plane rectangle with four equal sides and four right angles; a four-sided regular polygon: you can compute the area of a square if you know the length of its sides

squeeze [skwi:z] – v. to compress with violence, out of natural shape or condition: squeeze a lemon

stab [stæb] – n. a sudden sharp feeling: she felt a stab of excitement

stability [stəˈbiliti] – n. the quality or attribute of being firm and steadfast

stable [ˈsteibl] – adj. firm and dependable; subject to little fluctuation: the economy is stable

stadium [ˈsteidiəm] – n. a large structure for open-air sports or entertainments

staff [stɑ:f] – n. personnel who assist their superior in carrying out an assigned task: the hospital has an excellent nursing staff

stag  – v. attend a dance or a party without a female companion

stage [steidʒ] – n. any distinct time period in a sequence of events: we are in a transitional stage in which many former ideas must be revised or rejected

stagger [ˈstægə] – v. walk as if unable to control one’s movements: The drunken man staggered into the room

stain [stein] – n. a soiled or discolored appearance: the wine left a dark stain

stair [stɛə] – n. support consisting of a place to rest the foot while ascending or descending a stairway

staircase [ˈstɛəkeis] – n. a way of access (upward and downward) consisting of a set of steps

stake [steik] – n. (law) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something: a stake in the company’s future

stall [stɔ:l] – n. small area set off by walls for special use

stamp [stæmp] – n. the distinctive form in which a thing is made

stance [stɑ:ns, stæns] – n. a rationalized mental attitude

stand [stænd] – n. a support or foundation

standard [ˈstændəd] – n. a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated: the schools comply with federal standards

standing [ˈstændiŋ] – adj. having a supporting base: a standing lamp

star [stɑ:] – n. someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field

start [stɑ:t] – v. take the first step or steps in carrying out an action: Who will start?

startle [ˈstɑ:tl] – v. to stimulate to action: ..startled him awake

state [steit] – n. the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation: his state is in the deep south

statement [ˈsteitmənt] – n. a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true

static [ˈstætik] – adj. not in physical motion

station [ˈsteiʃən] – n. a facility equipped with special equipment and personnel for a particular purpose: he started looking for a gas station

statistical [stəˈtistikəl] – adj. of or relating to statistics: statistical population

statistics [stəˈtistiks] – n. a branch of applied mathematics concerned with the collection and interpretation of quantitative data and the use of probability theory to estimate population parameters

statue [ˈstætju:] – n. a sculpture representing a human or animal

status [ˈsteitəs] – n. a state at a particular time: the current status of the arms negotiations

statute [ˈstætju:t] – n. an act passed by a legislative body

statutory [ˈstætʃutəri] – adj. prescribed or authorized by or punishable under a statute: statutory restrictions

stay [stei] – v. dwell: You can stay with me while you are in town

steadily [ˈstedili] – adv. in a steady manner: he could still walk steadily

steady [ˈstedi] – adj. not subject to change or variation especially in behavior: a steady beat

steal [sti:l] – v. take without the owner’s consent

steam [sti:m] – v. rise as vapor

steel [sti:l] – n. a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard

steep [sti:p] – adj. having a sharp inclination: the steep attic stairs

steer [stiə] – v. direct the course; determine the direction of travelling

stem [stem] – n. a slender or elongated structure that supports a plant or fungus or a plant part or plant organ

step [step] – n. any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal: the police took steps to reduce crime

sterling [ˈstə:liŋ] – adj. highest in quality

steward [ˈstju:əd] – n. someone who manages property or other affairs for someone else

stick [stik] – v. put, fix, force, or implant: stick your thumb in the crack

sticky [ˈstiki] – adj. moist as with undried perspiration and with clothing sticking to the body: felt sticky and chilly at the same time

stiff [stif] – adj. not moving or operating freely: a stiff hinge

still [stil] – adj. not in physical motion

stimulate [ˈstimjuleit] – v. cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner

stimulation [.stimjuˈleiʃən] – n. the act of arousing an organism to action

stimulus [ˈstimjuləs] – n. any stimulating information or event; acts to arouse action

stir [stə:] – v. move an implement through: stir the soup

stitch [stitʃ] – n. a link or loop or knot made by an implement in knitting, crocheting, embroidery, or sewing

stock [stɔk] – n. the capital raised by a corporation through the issue of shares entitling holders to an ownership interest (equity): he owns a controlling share of the company’s stock

stocking [ˈstɔkiŋ] – n. close-fitting hosiery to cover the foot and leg; come in matched pairs (usually used in the plural)

stomach [ˈstʌmək] – n. an enlarged and muscular saclike organ of the alimentary canal; the principal organ of digestion

stone [stəun] – n. a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter

stool [stu:l] – n. a simple seat without a back or arms

stop [stɔp] – n. the event of something ending: it came to a stop at the bottom of the hill

storage  – n. a depository for goods

store [stɔ:] – n. a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services

storm [stɔ:m] – v. behave violently, as if in state of a great anger

story [ˈstɔ:ri] – n. a piece of fiction that narrates a chain of related events

straight [streit] – adj. successive (without a break): sick for five straight days

straighten [ˈstreitn] – v. make straight

straightforward [streitˈfɔ:wəd] – adj. free from ambiguity: a straightforward set of instructions

strain [strein] – n. (physics) deformation of a physical body under the action of applied forces

strand [strænd] – n. line consisting of a complex of fibers or filaments that are twisted together to form a thread or a rope or a cable

strange [streindʒ] – adj. being definitely out of the ordinary and unexpected; slightly odd or even a bit weird: a strange exaltation that was indefinable

strangely  – adv. in a strange manner

stranger [ˈstreindʒə] – n. anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found

strap [stræp] – n. hanger consisting of a loop of leather suspended from the ceiling of a bus or train; passengers hold onto it

strategic [strəˈti:dʒik] – adj. highly important to or an integral part of a strategy or plan of action especially in war: a strategic chess move

strategy [ˈstrætidʒi] – n. an elaborate and systematic plan of action

straw [strɔ:] – n. plant fiber used e.g. for making baskets and hats or as fodder

stream [stri:m] – n. a natural body of running water flowing on or under the earth

street [stri:t] – n. a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings: they walked the streets of the small town

strength [streŋθ] – n. the property of being physically or mentally strong: fatigue sapped his strength

strengthen [ˈstreŋθən] – v. make strong or stronger: This exercise will strengthen your upper body

stress [stres] – n. (psychology) a state of mental or emotional strain or suspense: stress is a vasoconstrictor

stretch [stretʃ] – v. occupy a large, elongated area: The park stretched beneath the train line

strict [strikt] – adj. rigidly accurate; allowing no deviation from a standard: a strict vegetarian

strictly [ˈstriktli] – adv. in a stringent manner

stride [straid] – n. a step in walking or running

strike [straik] – v. deliver a sharp blow, as with the hand, fist, or weapon: the opponent refused to strike

striker  – n. a forward on a soccer team

striking [ˈstraikiŋ] – n. the physical coming together of two or more things

string [striŋ] – n. a lightweight cord

strip [strip] – v. take away possessions from someone: The Nazis stripped the Jews of all their assets

strive [straiv] – v. attempt by employing effort

stroke [strəuk] – n. the maximum movement available to a pivoted or reciprocating piece by a cam

stroll [strəul] – n. a leisurely walk (usually in some public place)

strong [strɔŋ] – adj. not faint or feeble: a strong odor of burning rubber

strongly [ˈstrɔŋli] – adv. in a powerful manner

structural [ˈstrʌktʃərəl] – adj. relating to or having or characterized by structure: structural engineer

structure [ˈstrʌktʃə] – n. the manner of construction of something and the arrangement of its parts: artists must study the structure of the human body

struggle [ˈstrʌgl] – v. make a strenuous or labored effort: She struggled for years to survive without welfare

student [ˈstju:dənt] – n. a learner who is enrolled in an educational institution

studio [ˈstju:diəu] – n. workplace for the teaching or practice of an art: she ran a dance studio

study [ˈstʌdi] – n. a detailed critical inspection

stuff [stʌf] – n. the tangible substance that goes into the makeup of a physical object: wheat is the stuff they use to make bread

stumble [ˈstʌmbl] – v. walk unsteadily: The drunk man stumbled about

stunning [ˈstʌniŋ] – adj. commanding attention: a stunning performance

stupid [ˈstju:pid] – adj. lacking or marked by lack of intellectual acuity

style [stail] – n. how something is done or how it happens: in the characteristic New York style

subject [ˈsʌbdʒekt] – n. something (a person or object or scene) selected by an artist or photographer for graphic representation: a moving picture of a train is more dramatic than a still picture of the same subject

subjective [səbˈdʒektiv] – adj. taking place within the mind and modified by individual bias: a subjective judgment

submission [səbˈmiʃən] – n. the act of submitting; usually surrendering power to another

submit [səbˈmit] – v. refer for judgment or consideration: The lawyers submitted the material to the court

subscription [səbˈskripʃən] – n. a payment for consecutive issues of a newspaper or magazine for a given period of time

subsequent [ˈsʌbsikwənt] – adj. following in time or order: subsequent developments

subsequently [ˈsʌbsikwəntli] – adv. happening at a time subsequent to a reference time: he apologized subsequently

subsidiary [səbˈsidjəri] – n. an assistant subject to the authority or control of another

subsidy [ˈsʌbsidi] – n. a grant paid by a government to an enterprise that benefits the public: a subsidy for research in artificial intelligence

substance [ˈsʌbstəns] – n. the real physical matter of which a person or thing consists: DNA is the substance of our genes

substantial [səbˈstænʃəl] – adj. fairly large: won by a substantial margin

substantially [səbˈstænʃ(ə)li] – adv. to a great extent or degree: painting the room white made it seem considerably (or substantially) larger

substantive [ˈsʌbstəntiv] – adj. having a firm basis in reality and being therefore important, meaningful, or considerable

substitute [ˈsʌbstitju:t] – n. a person or thing that takes or can take the place of another

subtle [ˈsʌtl] – adj. difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze: his whole attitude had undergone a subtle change

suburb [ˈsʌbə:b] – n. a residential district located on the outskirts of a city

succeed [səkˈsi:d] – v. be the successor (of): Will Charles succeed to the throne?

success [səkˈses] – n. an event that accomplishes its intended purpose: let’s call heads a success and tails a failure

successful [səkˈsesfəl] – adj. having succeeded or being marked by a favorable outcome: a successful architect

successfully [səkˈsesfʊli] – adv. with success; in a successful manner: she performed the surgery successfully

succession [səkˈseʃən] – n. a following of one thing after another in time

successive [səkˈsesiv] – adj. in regular succession without gaps

successor [səkˈsesə] – n. a person who follows next in order: he was President Lincoln’s successor

suck [sʌk] – v. draw into the mouth by creating a practical vacuum in the mouth: suck the poison from the place where the snake bit

sudden [ˈsʌdn] – adj. happening without warning or in a short space of time: a sudden storm

suddenly [ˈsʌdənli] – adv. happening unexpectedly: suddenly she felt a sharp pain in her side

sue [su:] – n. French writer whose novels described the sordid side of city life (1804-1857)

suffer [ˈsʌfə] – v. undergo or be subjected to: He suffered the penalty

sufferer  – n. one who suffers for the sake of principle

suffering [ˈsʌfəriŋ] – n. a state of acute pain

sufficient [səˈfiʃənt] – adj. of a quantity that can fulfill a need or requirement but without being abundant: sufficient food

sufficiently [səˈfiʃəntli] – adv. to a sufficient degree: she was sufficiently fluent in Mandarin

sugar [ˈʃugə] – n. a white crystalline carbohydrate used as a sweetener and preservative

suggest [səˈdʒest] – v. make a proposal, declare a plan for something

suggestion [səˈdʒestʃən] – n. a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection: it was a suggestion we couldn’t refuse

suicide [ˈsu:ə.said] – n. the act of killing yourself: it is a crime to commit suicide

suit [sju:t] – n. a comprehensive term for any proceeding in a court of law whereby an individual seeks a legal remedy: the family brought suit against the landlord

suitable [ˈsju:təbl] – adj. meant or adapted for an occasion or use: a tractor suitable (or fit) for heavy duty

suitcase [ˈsu:tkeis] – n. a portable rectangular container for carrying clothes

suite [swi:t] – n. a musical composition of several movements only loosely connected

sulphur [ˈsʌlfə] – n. an abundant tasteless odorless multivalent nonmetallic element; best known in yellow crystals; occurs in many sulphide and sulphate minerals and even in native form (especially in volcanic regions)

sum [sʌm] – n. a quantity of money: he borrowed a large sum

summarise  – v. give a summary (of)

summary [ˈsʌməri] – adj. performed speedily and without formality: a summary execution

summer [ˈsʌmə] – n. the period of finest development, happiness, or beauty: the golden summer of his life

summit [ˈsʌmit] – n. the highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development: the summit of his ambition

summon [ˈsʌmən] – v. call in an official matter, such as to attend court

sun [sʌn] – n. the star that is the source of light and heat for the planets in the solar system: the sun contains 99.85% of the mass in the solar system

sunlight [ˈsʌnlait] – n. the rays of the sun

sunny [ˈsʌni] – adj. bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer: a gay sunny room

sunshine [ˈsʌnʃain] – n. the rays of the sun

super [ˈsu:pə] – adj. of the highest quality: a super party

superb [sjuˈpə:b] – adj. of surpassing excellence: a superb actor

superintendent [.sju:pərinˈtendənt] – n. a person who directs and manages an organization

superior [su:ˈpiəriə] – adj. of or characteristic of high rank or importance: a superior ruler

supermarket [ˈsju:pə.mɑ:kit] – n. a large self-service grocery store selling groceries and dairy products and household goods

supervise [ˈsju:pəvaiz] – v. watch and direct

supervision [.sju:pəˈviʒən] – n. management by overseeing the performance or operation of a person or group

supervisor [ˈsju:pəvaizə] – n. a program that controls the execution of other programs

supper [ˈsʌpə] – n. a light evening meal; served in early evening if dinner is at midday or served late in the evening at bedtime

supplement [ˈsʌpliment] – n. textual matter that is added onto a publication; usually at the end

supplementary [.sʌpliˈmentəri] – adj. functioning in a supporting capacity

supplier [səˈplaiə] – n. someone whose business is to supply a particular service or commodity

supply [səˈplai] – v. give something useful or necessary to

support [səˈpɔ:t] – n. aiding the cause or policy or interests of: the president no longer has the support of his own party

supporter [səˈpɔ:tə] – n. a person who backs a politician or a team etc.: all their supporters came out for the game

supporting  – adj. capable of bearing a structural load: a supporting wall

suppose [səˈpəuz] – v. express a supposition

supposed  – adj. required or under orders: I’m supposed to be there at ten

supposedly [səˈpəuzidli] – adv. believed or reputed to be the case

suppress [səˈpres] – v. to put down by force or authority: suppress a nascent uprising

supreme [sju:ˈpri:m] – adj. final or last in your life or progress: the supreme sacrifice

sure [ʃuə] – adj. exercising or taking care great enough to bring assurance: be sure to lock the doors

surely [ˈʃuəli] – adv. definitely or positively (`sure’ is sometimes used informally for `surely’): the results are surely encouraging

surface [ˈsə:fis] – n. the outer boundary of an artifact or a material layer constituting or resembling such a boundary: there is a special cleaner for these surfaces

surgeon [ˈsə:dʒən] – n. a physician who specializes in surgery

surgery [ˈsə:dʒəri] – n. the branch of medical science that treats disease or injury by operative procedures: he is professor of surgery at the Harvard Medical School

surplus [ˈsə:pləs] – n. a quantity much larger than is needed

surprise [səˈpraiz] – n. the astonishment you feel when something totally unexpected happens to you

surprised  – adj. taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment: surprised by her student’s ingenuity

surprising [səˈpraiziŋ] – adj. causing surprise or wonder or amazement: the report shows a surprising lack of hard factual data

surprisingly  – adv. in an amazing manner; to everyone’s surprise

surrender [səˈrendə] – n. acceptance of despair

surround [səˈraund] – v. extend on all sides of simultaneously; encircle: The forest surrounds my property

survey [sə:ˈvei] – v. consider in a comprehensive way

surveyor [sə:ˈveiə] – n. an engineer who determines the boundaries and elevations of land or structures

survival [səˈvaivəl] – n. a natural process resulting in the evolution of organisms best adapted to the environment

survive [səˈvaiv] – v. continue to live through hardship or adversity: These superstitions survive in the backwaters of America

survivor [səˈvaivə] – n. one who lives through affliction: the survivors of the fire were taken to a hospital

suspect [səsˈpekt] – v. imagine to be the case or true or probable: I suspect he is a fugitive

suspend [səsˈpend] – v. hang freely: The secret police suspended their victims from the ceiling and beat them

suspension [səˈspenʃən] – n. a time interval during which there is a temporary cessation of something

suspicion [səsˈpiʃən] – n. an impression that something might be the case

suspicious [səsˈpiʃəs] – adj. openly distrustful and unwilling to confide

sustain [səsˈtein] – v. lengthen or extend in duration or space: We sustained the diplomatic negotiations as long as possible

swallow [ˈswɔləu] – v. pass through the esophagus as part of eating or drinking

swap [swɔp] – v. exchange or give (something) in exchange for

sway [swei] – v. move back and forth or sideways: the tall building swayed

swear [swɛə] – v. utter obscenities or profanities

sweat [swet] – n. agitation resulting from active worry: he’s in a sweat about exams

sweep [swi:p] – v. force into some kind of situation, condition, or course of action

sweet [swi:t] – adj. having or denoting the characteristic taste of sugar

swell [swel] – v. increase in size, magnitude, number, or intensity: The music swelled to a crescendo

swift [swift] – n. United States meat-packer who began the use of refrigerated railroad cars (1839-1903)

swiftly  – adv. in a swift manner: she moved swiftly

swim [swim] – v. travel through water: We had to swim for 20 minutes to reach the shore

swimming  – adj. filled or brimming with tears: swimming eyes

swing [swiŋ] – v. move in a curve or arc, usually with the intent of hitting: swing a bat

switch [switʃ] – n. an event in which one thing is substituted for another

sword [sɔ:d] – n. a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard

syllable [ˈsiləbl] – n. a unit of spoken language larger than a phoneme: the word `pocket’ has two syllables

symbol [ˈsimbəl] – n. an arbitrary sign (written or printed) that has acquired a conventional significance

symbolic  – adj. serving as a visible symbol for something abstract: the spinning wheel was as symbolic of colonical Massachusetts as the codfish

symmetry [ˈsimitri] – n. balance among the parts of something

sympathetic [.simpəˈθetik] – adj. expressing or feeling or resulting from sympathy or compassion or friendly fellow feelings; disposed toward: sympathetic to the students’ cause

sympathy [ˈsimpəθi] – n. an inclination to support or be loyal to or to agree with an opinion

symptom [ˈsimptəm] – n. anything that accompanies X and is regarded as an indication of X’s existence

syndrome [ˈsindrəum] – n. a complex of concurrent things: every word has a syndrome of meanings

syntactic  – adj. of or relating to or conforming to the rules of syntax: the syntactic rules of a language

synthesis [ˈsinθisis] – n. the process of producing a chemical compound (usually by the union of simpler chemical compounds)

system [ˈsistəm] – n. instrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity: he bought a new stereo system

systematic [.sistiˈmætik] – adj. characterized by order and planning: the investigation was very systematic

table [ˈteibl] – n. a set of data arranged in rows and columns: see table 1

tablet [ˈtæblit] – n. a number of sheets of paper fastened together along one edge

tackle [ˈtækl] – n. the person who plays that position on a football team: the right tackle is a straight A student

tactic [ˈtæktik] – n. a plan for attaining a particular goal

tail [teil] – n. the time of the last part of something: the tail of the storm

take [teik] – v. carry out: take action

takeover  – n. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force

tale [teil] – n. a trivial lie

talent [ˈtælənt] – n. natural abilities or qualities

talk [tɔ:k] – v. express in speech: She talks a lot of nonsense

talking  – n. an exchange of ideas via conversation

tall [tɔ:l] – adj. lofty in style: he engages in so much tall talk, one never really realizes what he is saying

tank [tæŋk] – n. a large (usually metallic) vessel for holding gases or liquids

tap [tæp] – v. draw from or dip into to get something: tap one’s memory

tape [teip] – n. a long thin piece of cloth or paper as used for binding or fastening: he used a piece of tape for a belt

target [ˈtɑ:git] – n. a reference point to shoot at

tariff [ˈtærif] – n. a government tax on imports or exports

task [tɑ:sk] – n. a specific piece of work required to be done as a duty or for a specific fee: the endless task of classifying the samples

taste [teist] – n. a strong liking

tax [tæks] – v. set or determine the amount of (a payment such as a fine)

taxation [tækˈseiʃən] – n. charge against a citizen’s person or property or activity for the support of government

taxi [ˈtæksi] – v. travel slowly: The plane taxied down the runway

taxpayer [ˈtæks.peiə] – n. someone who pays taxes

tea [ti:] – n. dried leaves of the tea shrub; used to make tea: the store shelves held many different kinds of tea

teach [ti:tʃ] – v. impart skills or knowledge to

teacher [ˈti:tʃə] – n. a personified abstraction that teaches: books were his teachers

teaching [ˈti:tʃiŋ] – n. a doctrine that is taught: the teachings of religion

team [ti:m] – n. a cooperative unit (especially in sports)

tear [tɛə,tiə] – v. to separate or be separated by force

tease [ti:z] – v. annoy persistently: The children teased the boy because of his stammer

technical [ˈteknikəl] – adj. characterizing or showing skill in or specialized knowledge of applied arts and sciences: a technical problem

technically  – adv. with regard to technical skill and the technology available: a technically brilliant solution

technique [tekˈni:k] – n. a practical method or art applied to some particular task

technological [.teknəˈlɔdʒikəl] – adj. based in scientific and industrial progress: a technological civilization

technology [tekˈnɔlədʒi] – n. the practical application of science to commerce or industry

teenage  – adj. being of the age 13 through 19: teenage mothers

teenager [ˈti:n.eidʒə] – n. a juvenile between the onset of puberty and maturity

telecommunication [.telikəmju:niˈkeiʃən] – n. (often plural) systems used in transmitting messages over a distance electronically

telephone [ˈtelifəun] – n. transmitting speech at a distance

television [ˈteli.viʒən] – n. broadcasting visual images of stationary or moving objects

tell [tel] – v. express in words: tell me what is bothering you

telly  – n. an electronic device that receives television signals and displays them on a screen: the British call a tv set a telly

temperature [ˈtempritʃə] – n. the degree of hotness or coldness of a body or environment (corresponding to its molecular activity)

temple [ˈtempl] – n. place of worship consisting of an edifice for the worship of a deity

temporarily [ˈtempərərili] – adv. for a limited time only; not permanently: he will work here temporarily

temporary [ˈtempəreri] – adj. not permanent; not lasting: temporary housing

tempt [tempt] – v. dispose or incline or entice to: We were tempted by the delicious-looking food

temptation [tempˈteiʃən] – n. something that seduces or has the quality to seduce

tenant [ˈtenənt] – n. someone who pays rent to use land or a building or a car that is owned by someone else: the landlord can evict a tenant who doesn’t pay the rent

tend [tend] – v. have care of or look after: She tends to the children

tendency [ˈtendənsi] – n. an attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others: a tendency to be too strict

tender [ˈtendə] – adj. given to sympathy or gentleness or sentimentality: a tender heart

tennis [ˈtenis] – n. a game played with rackets by two or four players who hit a ball back and forth over a net that divides the court

tense [tens] – v. increase the tension on: alternately relax and tense your calf muscle

tension [ˈtenʃən] – n. (psychology) a state of mental or emotional strain or suspense: he suffered from fatigue and emotional tension

tent [tent] – n. a portable shelter (usually of canvas stretched over supporting poles and fastened to the ground with ropes and pegs): he pitched his tent near the creek

term [tə:m] – n. a word or expression used for some particular thing: he learned many medical terms

terminal [ˈtə:minl] – adj. of or relating to or situated at the ends of a delivery route: freight pickup is a terminal service

terminate [ˈtə:mineit] – v. bring to an end or halt: The attack on Poland terminated the relatively peaceful period after WW I

terms  – n. status with respect to the relations between people or groups: on good terms with her in-laws

terrace [ˈterəs] – n. usually paved outdoor area adjoining a residence

terrible [ˈterəbl] – adj. exceptionally bad or displeasing: terrible handwriting

terribly [ˈteribli] – adv. used as intensifiers: terribly interesting

terrify [ˈterifai] – v. fill with terror; frighten greatly

territorial [.teriˈtɔ:riəl] – adj. of or relating to a territory: the territorial government of the Virgin Islands

territory [ˈteritəri] – n. a region marked off for administrative or other purposes

terror [ˈterə] – n. an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety

terrorist [ˈterərist] – n. a radical who employs terror as a political weapon; usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells; often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities

test [test] – v. examine someone’s knowledge of something: The teacher tests us every week

testament [ˈtestəment] – n. a profession of belief: he stated his political testament

testing  – n. an examination of the characteristics of something: there are laboratories for commercial testing

text [tekst] – n. a passage from the Bible that is used as the subject of a sermon: the preacher chose a text from Psalms to introduce his sermon

textbook [ˈtekstbuk] – n. a book prepared for use in schools or colleges: his economics textbook is in its tenth edition

textile [ˈtekstail] – n. artifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers

texture [ˈtekstʃə] – n. the feel of a surface or a fabric: the wall had a smooth texture

thank [θæŋk] – v. express gratitude or show appreciation to

thanks [θæŋks] – n. an acknowledgment of appreciation

theatre [ˈθiətə] – n. the art of writing and producing plays

theft [θeft] – n. the act of taking something from someone unlawfully

theme [θi:m] – n. a unifying idea that is a recurrent element in literary or artistic work: it was the usual `boy gets girl’ theme

then [ðen] – adv. subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors): then he left

theology [θiˈɔlədʒi] – n. the rational and systematic study of religion and its influences and of the nature of religious truth

theoretical [θiəˈretikəl] – adj. concerned primarily with theories or hypotheses rather than practical considerations: theoretical science

theorist [ˈθi:ərist] – n. someone who theorizes (especially in science or art)

theory [ˈθiəri] – n. a tentative insight into the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena: a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory

therapist  – n. a person skilled in a particular type of therapy

therapy [ˈθerəpi] – n. (medicine) the act of caring for someone (as by medication or remedial training etc.): heat therapy gave the best relief

there [ðɛə] – adv. in or at that place: they have lived there for years

thereafter [ðɛəˈæftə] – adv. from that time on: thereafter he never called again

thereby [ˈðɛəˈbai] – adv. by that means or because of that: He knocked over the red wine, thereby ruining the table cloth

therefore [ðɛəˈfɔ:] – adv. (used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result: therefore X must be true

thesis [ˈθi:sis] – n. an unproved statement put forward as a premise in an argument

thick [θik] – adj. having component parts closely crowded together: thick crowds

thief [θi:f] – n. a criminal who takes property belonging to someone else with the intention of keeping it or selling it

thigh [θai] – n. the part of the leg between the hip and the knee

thin [θin] – adj. lacking excess flesh: you can’t be too rich or too thin

thing [θiŋ] – n. a special situation: this thing has got to end

think [θiŋk] – v. judge or regard; look upon; judge: I think he is very smart

thinking [ˈθiŋkiŋ] – n. the process of using your mind to consider something carefully: thinking always made him frown

thorough [ˈθʌrə] – adj. painstakingly careful and accurate: our accountant is thorough

thoroughly [ˈθʌrəli] – adv. in an exhaustive manner: we searched the files thoroughly

though [ðəu] – adv. (postpositive) however: it might be unpleasant, though

thought [θɔ:t] – n. the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about: the thought never entered my mind

thread [θred] – v. to move or cause to move in a sinuous, spiral, or circular course

threat [θret] – n. something that is a source of danger: earthquakes are a constant threat in Japan

threaten [ˈθretn] – v. to utter intentions of injury or punishment against:: He threatened me when I tried to call the police

threshold [ˈθreʃhəuld] – n. the starting point for a new state or experience: on the threshold of manhood

throat [θrəut] – n. the passage to the stomach and lungs; in the front part of the neck below the chin and above the collarbone

throne [θrəun] – n. the chair of state for a monarch, bishop, etc.: the king sat on his throne

through [θru:] – adv. from beginning to end: read this book through

throw [θrəu] – v. move violently, energetically, or carelessly

thrust [θrʌst] – v. push forcefully: He thrust his chin forward

thumb [θʌm] – n. the thick short innermost digit of the forelimb

thus [ðʌs] – adv. in the way indicated: set up the pieces thus

tick [tik] – n. a metallic tapping sound: he counted the ticks of the clock

ticket [ˈtikit] – n. a commercial document showing that the holder is entitled to something (as to ride on public transportation or to enter a public entertainment)

tide [taid] – n. the periodic rise and fall of the sea level under the gravitational pull of the moon

tie [tai] – n. a social or business relationship: he was sorry he had to sever his ties with other members of the team

tiger [ˈtaigə] – n. a fierce or audacious person: he’s a tiger on the tennis court

tight [tait] – adj. closely constrained or constricted or constricting: tight skirts

tighten [ˈtaitən] – v. become tight or tighter: The rope tightened

tightly [ˈtaitli] – adv. securely fixed or fastened: the window was tightly sealed

tile [tail] – n. a flat thin rectangular slab (as of fired clay or rubber or linoleum) used to cover surfaces

timber [ˈtimbə] – n. the wood of trees cut and prepared for use as building material

time [taim] – n. an instance or single occasion for some event: this time he succeeded

timetable [ˈtaim.teibl] – n. a schedule listing events and the times at which they will take place

timing [ˈtaimiŋ] – n. the time when something happens

tin [tin] – n. metal container for storing dry foods such as tea or flour

tiny [ˈtaini] – adj. very small: tiny feet

tip [tip] – v. cause to tilt: tip the screen upward

tired [ˈtaiəd] – adj. depleted of strength or energy: tired mothers with crying babies

tissue [ˈtiʃu] – n. part of an organism consisting of an aggregate of cells having a similar structure and function

title [ˈtaitl] – n. a heading that names a statute or legislative bill; may give a brief summary of the matters it deals with

toast [təust] – n. a celebrity who receives much acclaim and attention: he was the toast of the town

tobacco [təˈbækəu] – n. aromatic annual or perennial herbs and shrubs

today [təˈdei] – n. the present time or age: the world of today

toe [təu] – v. drive obliquely: toe a nail

together [təˈgeðə] – adv. in contact with each other or in proximity: the leaves stuck together

toilet [ˈtɔilit] – n. a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination

tolerate [ˈtɔləreit] – v. put up with something or somebody unpleasant: he learned to tolerate the heat

toll [təul] – n. a fee levied for the use of roads or bridges (used for maintenance)

tomato [təˈmeitəu] – n. mildly acid red or yellow pulpy fruit eaten as a vegetable

tomorrow [təˈmɔrəu] – n. the day after today: what are our tasks for tomorrow?

ton [tʌn] – n. a British unit of weight equivalent to 2240 pounds

tone [tʌn] – n. the quality of a person’s voice: he began in a conversational tone

tongue [tʌŋ] – n. a mobile mass of muscular tissue covered with mucous membrane and located in the oral cavity

tonight [təˈnait] – n. the present or immediately coming night

tonne  – n. a unit of weight equivalent to 1000 kilograms

too [tu:] – adv. in addition: he has a Mercedes, too

tool [tu:l] – n. an implement used in the practice of a vocation

tooth [tu:θ] – n. hard bonelike structures in the jaws of vertebrates; used for biting and chewing or for attack and defense

top [tɔp] – n. the upper part of anything: the mower cuts off the tops of the grass

topic [ˈtɔpik] – n. the subject matter of a conversation or discussion: it was a very sensitive topic

torch [tɔ:tʃ] – n. a light usually carried in the hand; consists of some flammable substance

toss [tɔs] – v. lightly throw to see which side comes up

total [ˈtəutl] – v. add up in number or quantity

totally [ˈtɔt(ə)li] – adv. to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole’ is often used informally for `wholly’): a totally new situation

touch [tʌtʃ] – v. make physical contact with, come in contact with: She never touched her husband

tough [tʌf] – adj. not given to gentleness or sentimentality: a tough character

tour [tuə] – n. a journey or route all the way around a particular place or area: they took an extended tour of Europe

tourism [ˈtʊəriz(ə)m] – n. the business of providing services to tourists

tourist [ˈtuərist] – n. someone who travels for pleasure

tournament [ˈtuənəmənt] – n. a sporting competition in which contestants play a series of games to decide the winner

towel [ˈtauəl] – n. a rectangular piece of absorbent cloth (or paper) for drying or wiping

tower [ˈtauə] – n. a structure taller than its diameter; can stand alone or be attached to a larger building

town [taun] – n. an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city: they drive through town on their way to work

toxic [ˈtɔksik] – adj. of or relating to or caused by a toxin or poison: suffering from exposure to toxic substances

toy [tɔi] – n. a nonfunctional replica of something else (frequently used as a modifier): a toy stove

trace [treis] – v. follow, discover, or ascertain the course of development of something: trace the student’s progress

track [træk] – n. evidence pointing to a possible solution

tract [trækt] – n. an extended area of land

trade [treid] – n. the commercial exchange (buying and selling on domestic or international markets) of goods and services: Venice was an important center of trade with the East

trader [ˈtreidə] – n. someone who purchases and maintains an inventory of goods to be sold

trading  – n. buying or selling securities or commodities

tradition [trəˈdiʃən] – n. an inherited pattern of thought or action

traditional [trəˈdiʃənəl] – adj. pertaining to time-honored orthodox doctrines: the simple security of traditional assumptions has vanished

traditionally  – adv. according to tradition; in a traditional manner: traditionally, we eat fried foods on Hanukah

traffic [ˈtræfik] – n. buying and selling; especially illicit trade

tragedy [ˈtrædʒidi] – n. an event resulting in great loss and misfortune

tragic [ˈtrædʒik] – adj. very sad; especially involving grief or death or destruction: a tragic face

trail [treil] – v. to lag or linger behind

train [trein] – v. develop (children’s) behavior by instruction and practice; especially to teach self-control: Is this dog trained?

trainee [treiˈni:] – n. someone who is being trained

trainer [ˈtreinə] – n. simulator consisting of a machine on the ground that simulates the conditions of flying a plane

training [ˈtreiniŋ] – n. activity leading to skilled behavior

trait [treit] – n. a distinguishing feature of your personal nature

transaction [trænˈzækʃən] – n. the act of transacting within or between groups (as carrying on commercial activities): no transactions are possible without him

transcription  – n. something written, especially copied from one medium to another, as a typewritten version of dictation

transfer [trænsˈfə:] – v. move from one place to another: transfer the data

transform [trænsˈfɔ:m] – v. change or alter in form, appearance, or nature: This experience transformed her completely

transformation [.trænsfəˈmeiʃən] – n. a qualitative change

transition [trænˈziʃən] – n. the act of passing from one state or place to the next

translate [trænsˈleit] – v. restate (words) from one language into another language: I have to translate when my in-laws from Austria visit the U.S.

translation [trænsˈleiʃən] – n. a written communication in a second language having the same meaning as the written communication in a first language

transmission [trænsˈmiʃən] – n. communication by means of transmitted signals

transmit [trænzˈmit] – v. transfer to another

transport [trænsˈpɔ:t] – n. the commercial enterprise of moving goods and materials

trap [træp] – n. a device in which something (usually an animal) can be caught and penned

travel [ˈtrævl] – v. undertake a journey or trip

traveller  – n. a person who changes location

tray [trei] – n. an open receptacle for holding or displaying or serving articles or food

tread [tred] – v. put down or press the foot, place the foot: For fools rush in where angels fear to tread

treasure [ˈtreʒə] – n. accumulated wealth in the form of money or jewels etc.: the pirates hid their treasure on a small island in the West Indies

treasurer [ˈtreʒərə] – n. an officer charged with receiving and disbursing funds

treasury [ˈtreʒəri] – n. the funds of a government or institution or individual

treat [tri:t] – v. interact in a certain way

treatment [ˈtri:tmənt] – n. the management of someone or something: the treatment of water sewage

treaty [ˈtri:ti] – n. a written agreement between two states or sovereigns

tree [tri:] – v. force a person or an animal into a position from which he cannot escape

tremble [ˈtrembl] – n. a reflex motion caused by cold or fear or excitement

tremendous [triˈmendəs] – adj. extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree: tremendous sweeping plains

trench [trentʃ] – v. impinge or infringe upon: This matter entrenches on other domains

trend [trend] – n. a general direction in which something tends to move: the trend of the stock market

trial [ˈtraiəl] – n. the act of testing something: in the experimental trials the amount of carbon was measured separately

triangle [ˈtraiæŋgl] – n. a three-sided polygon

tribe [traib] – n. a social division of (usually preliterate) people

tribunal [traiˈbju:nəl] – n. an assembly (including one or more judges) to conduct judicial business

tribute [ˈtribju:t] – n. something given or done as an expression of esteem

trick [trik] – n. a cunning or deceitful action or device: he played a trick on me

trigger [ˈtrigə] – n. lever that activates the firing mechanism of a gun

trip [trip] – n. a journey for some purpose (usually including the return): he took a trip to the shopping center

triumph [ˈtraiəmf] – v. prove superior

trivial [ˈtriviəl] – adj. (informal) small and of little importance

trolley [ˈtrɔli] – n. a wheeled vehicle that runs on rails and is propelled by electricity

troop [tru:p] – n. a group of soldiers

trophy [ˈtrəufi] – n. an award for success in war or hunting

tropical [ˈtrɔpikəl] – adj. of or relating to the tropics, or either tropic: tropical year

trouble [ˈtrʌbl] – n. a source of difficulty: one trouble after another delayed the job

trouser  – n. (usually in the plural) a garment extending from the waist to the knee or ankle, covering each leg separately: he had a sharp crease in his trousers

truck [trʌk] – n. an automotive vehicle suitable for hauling

truly [ˈtru:li] – adv. with sincerity; without pretense: we are truly sorry for the inconvenience

trunk [trʌŋk] – n. the main stem of a tree; usually covered with bark; the bole is usually the part that is commercially useful for lumber

trust [trʌst] – n. certainty based on past experience: he put more trust in his own two legs than in the gun

trustee [trʌsˈti:] – n. members of a governing board

truth [tru:θ] – n. a fact that has been verified: at last he knew the truth

try [trai] – v. make an effort or attempt

t-shirt  – n. a close-fitting pullover shirt

tube [tju:b] – n. conduit consisting of a long hollow object (usually cylindrical) used to hold and conduct objects or liquids or gases

tuck [tʌk] – n. eatables (especially sweets)

tumble [ˈtʌmbl] – v. fall down, as if collapsing: The tower of the World Trade Center tumbled after the plane hit it

tumour  – n. an abnormal new mass of tissue that serves no purpose

tune [tju:n] – n. a succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence

tunnel [ˈtʌnəl] – n. a passageway through or under something, usually underground (especially one for trains or cars): the tunnel reduced congestion at that intersection

turkey [ˈtə:ki] – n. large gallinaceous bird with fan-shaped tail; widely domesticated for food

turn [tə:n] – v. change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense: The mugger turned and fled before I could see his face

turnover [ˈtə:n.əuvə] – n. the ratio of the number of workers that had to be replaced in a given time period to the average number of workers

tutor [ˈtju:tə] – v. act as a guardian to someone

twice [twais] – adv. two times: I called her twice

twin [twin] – n. (astrology) a person who is born while the sun is in Gemini

twist [twist] – n. an unforeseen development

type [taip] – n. a subdivision of a particular kind of thing: what type of sculpture do you prefer?

typical [ˈtipikəl] – adj. exhibiting the qualities or characteristics that identify a group or kind or category: a typical American girl

typically  – adv. in a typical manner: Tom was typically hostile

tyre  – n. a port in southern Lebanon on the Mediterranean Sea; formerly a major Phoenician seaport famous for silks

ugly [ˈʌgli] – adj. displeasing to the senses: an ugly face

ulcer [ˈʌlsə] – n. a circumscribed inflammatory and often suppurating lesion on the skin or an internal mucous surface resulting in necrosis of tissue

ultimate [ˈʌltimit] – adj. furthest or highest in degree or order; utmost or extreme: the ultimate achievement

ultimately [ˈʌltimətli] – adv. as the end result of a succession or process: ultimately he had to give in

umbrella [ʌmˈbrelə] – n. a lightweight handheld collapsible canopy

unable [ʌnˈeibl] – adj. (usually followed by `to’) not having the necessary means or skill or know-how: unable to get to town without a car

unacceptable [ˈʌnəkˈseptəbl] – adj. not adequate to give satisfaction: the coach told his players that defeat was unacceptable

unaware [ˈʌnəˈwɛə] – adj. (often followed by `of’) not aware: seemed unaware of the scrutiny

uncertain [ʌnˈsə:tn] – adj. lacking or indicating lack of confidence or assurance: uncertain of his convictions

uncertainty [ʌnˈsə:tnti] – n. being unsettled or in doubt or dependent on chance: the uncertainty of the outcome

unchanged  – adj. not made or become different: the causes that produced them have remained unchanged

uncle [ˈʌŋkl] – n. the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt

unclear  – adj. poorly stated or described

uncomfortable [ʌnˈkʌmftəbl] – adj. conducive to or feeling mental discomfort: this kind of life can prove disruptive and uncomfortable

unconscious [ʌnˈkɔnʃəs] – adj. not conscious; lacking awareness and the capacity for sensory perception as if asleep or dead: lay unconscious on the floor

uncover [ʌnˈkʌvə] – v. make visible

under [ˈʌndə] – adv. down to defeat, death, or ruin: their competitors went under

undergo [.ʌndəˈgəu] – v. pass through: The chemical undergoes a sudden change

underground [ˈʌndəgraund] – n. a secret group organized to overthrow a government or occupation force

underline [.ʌndəˈlain] – v. give extra weight to (a communication)

underlying [.ʌndəˈlaiiŋ] – adj. in the nature of something though not readily apparent: an underlying meaning

undermine [.ʌndəˈmain] – v. destroy property or hinder normal operations

underneath [.ʌndəˈni:θ] – adv. under or below an object or a surface; at a lower place or level; directly beneath: we could see the original painting underneath

understand [.ʌndəˈstænd] – v. know and comprehend the nature or meaning of: She did not understand her husband

understandable  – adj. capable of being apprehended or understood

understanding [.ʌndəˈstændiŋ] – n. the statement (oral or written) of an exchange of promises: there was an understanding between management and the workers

undertake [.ʌndəˈteik] – v. enter upon an activity or enterprise

undertaking [.ʌndəˈteikiŋ] – n. the trade of a funeral director

undoubtedly [ʌnˈdautidli] – adv. without doubt; certainly: it’s undoubtedly very beautiful

uneasy [ʌnˈi:zi] – adj. lacking a sense of security or affording no ease or reassurance: farmers were uneasy until rain finally came

unemployed [ˈʌnimˈplɔid] – n. people who are involuntarily out of work (considered as a group): the long-term unemployed need assistance

unemployment [ˈʌnimˈplɔimənt] – n. the state of being unemployed or not having a job: unemployment is a serious social evil

unexpected [ˈʌnikˈspektid] – adj. not expected or anticipated: unexpected guests

unexpectedly  – adv. in a way that was not expected

unfair [ʌnˈfɛə] – adj. not fair; marked by injustice or partiality or deception: used unfair methods

unfamiliar  – adj. not known or well known: a name unfamiliar to most

unfortunate [ʌnˈfɔ:tʃənit] – adj. not favored by fortune; marked or accompanied by or resulting in ill fortune: an unfortunate turn of events

unfortunately [ʌnˈfɔ:tjʊnətli] – adv. by bad luck: unfortunately it rained all day

unhappy [ʌnˈhæpi] – adj. experiencing or marked by or causing sadness or sorrow or discontent: unhappy over her departure

uniform [ˈju:nifɔ:m] – adj. always the same; showing a single form or character in all occurrences: a street of uniform tall white buildings

union [ˈju:njən] – n. an organization of employees formed to bargain with the employer: you have to join the union in order to get a job

unionist  – n. a worker who belongs to a trade union

unique [ju:ˈni:k] – adj. radically distinctive and without equal: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint

unit [ˈju:nit] – n. any division of quantity accepted as a standard of measurement or exchange: the dollar is the United States unit of currency

unite [ju:ˈnait] – v. become one

united [juˈnaitid] – adj. of or relating to two people who are married to each other

unity [ˈju:niti] – n. an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting: he took measures to insure the territorial unity of Croatia

universal [.ju:niˈvə:səl] – n. (linguistics) a grammatical rule (or other linguistic feature) that is found in all languages

universe [ˈju:nivə:s] – n. everything that exists anywhere: they study the evolution of the universe

university [.ju:niˈvə:siti] – n. a large and diverse institution of higher learning created to educate for life and for a profession and to grant degrees

unknown [ˈʌnˈnəun] – adj. not known: an unknown amount

unlawful [ˈʌnˈlɔ:ful] – adj. not conforming to legality, moral law, or social convention

unlike [ˈʌnˈlaik] – adj. marked by dissimilarity: for twins they are very unlike

unlikely [ʌnˈlaikli] – adj. not likely to be true or to occur or to have occurred: legislation on the question is highly unlikely

unnecessary [ʌnˈnesisəri] – adj. not necessary

unpleasant [ʌnˈpleznt] – adj. disagreeable to the senses, to the mind, or feelings: an unpleasant personality

unprecedented [ʌnˈpresidəntid] – adj. having no precedent; novel: an unprecedented expansion in population and industry

unreasonable [ʌnˈri:znəbl] – adj. not reasonable; not showing good judgment

unrest [ʌnˈrest] – n. a state of agitation or turbulent change or development: social unrest

unsuccessful  – adj. not successful; having failed or having an unfavorable outcome

unusual [ʌnˈju:ʒuəl] – adj. not usual or common or ordinary: a scene of unusual beauty

unusually  – adv. to a remarkable degree or extent: she was unusually tall

unwanted  – adj. not wanted; not needed: tried to give away unwanted kittens

unwilling [ˈʌnˈwiliŋ] – adj. not disposed or inclined toward: an unwilling assistant

up [ʌp] – adj. being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level: the anchor is up

update [ʌpˈdeit] – v. modernize or bring up to date: We updated the kitchen in the old house

upgrade [ˈʌpgreid] – n. an upward slope or grade (as in a road)

uphold [ʌpˈhəuld] – v. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last

upper [ˈʌpə] – n. the higher of two berths

upset [ʌpˈset] – n. an unhappy and worried mental state: she didn’t realize the upset she caused me

upstairs [ˈʌpˈstɛəz] – adv. on a floor above: they lived upstairs

up-to-date [ˈʌptəˈdeit] – adj. reflecting the latest information or changes: an up-to-date issue of the magazine

upwards  – adv. spatially or metaphorically from a lower to a higher position: the fragments flew upwards

urban [ˈə:bən] – adj. relating to or concerned with a city or densely populated area: urban sociology

urge [ə:dʒ] – v. force or impel in an indicated direction: I urged him to finish his studies

urgency [ˈə:dʒənsi] – n. pressing importance requiring speedy action: the urgency of his need

urgent [ˈə:dʒənt] – adj. compelling immediate action: the urgent words `Hurry! Hurry!’

urgently [ˈə:dʒəntli] – adv. with great urgency: health care reform is needed urgently

urine [ˈjuərin] – n. liquid excretory product: there was blood in his urine

usage [ˈju:sidʒ] – n. the act of using

use [ju:z] – n. the act of using: he warned against the use of narcotic drugs

used [ju:zd] – adj. employed in accomplishing something: the principle of surprise is the most used and misused of all the principles of war

useful [ˈju:sfəl] – adj. being of use or service: the girl felt motherly and useful

useless [ˈju:slis] – adj. having no beneficial use or incapable of functioning usefully: a kitchen full of useless gadgets

user [ˈju:zə] – n. a person who uses something or someone selfishly or unethically

usual [ˈju:ʒuəl] – adj. occurring or encountered or experienced or observed frequently or in accordance with regular practice or procedure: grew the usual vegetables

usually [ˈju:ʒuəli] – adv. under normal conditions: usually she was late

utility [ju:ˈtiliti] – n. a company that performs a public service; subject to government regulation

utter [ˈʌtə] – v. articulate; either verbally or with a cry, shout, or noise: He uttered a curse

utterance [ˈʌtərəns] – n. the use of uttered sounds for auditory communication

utterly [ˈʌtəli] – adv. completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers: utterly miserable

vacant [ˈveikənt] – adj. void of thought or knowledge: a vacant mind

vacuum [ˈvækjuəm] – n. the absence of matter

vague [veig] – adj. not clearly understood or expressed: their descriptions of human behavior become vague, dull, and unclear

vaguely  – adv. in a vague way: he looked vaguely familiar

valid [ˈvælid] – adj. well grounded in logic or truth or having legal force: a valid inference

validity [væˈliditi] – n. the quality of having legal force or effectiveness

valley [ˈvæli] – n. a long depression in the surface of the land that usually contains a river

valuable [ˈvæljuəbl] – adj. having worth or merit or value: a valuable friend

valuation [.væljuˈeiʃən] – n. an appraisal of the value of something: he set a high valuation on friendship

value [ˈvælju:] – n. a numerical quantity measured or assigned or computed: the value assigned was 16 milliseconds

valve [vælv] – n. a structure in a hollow organ (like the heart) with a flap to insure one-way flow of fluid through it

van [væn] – n. the leading units moving at the head of an army

vanish [ˈvæniʃ] – v. get lost, as without warning or explanation

variable [ˈvɛəriəbl] – n. a quantity that can assume any of a set of values

variant [ˈvɛəriənt] – n. an event that departs from expectations

variation [.vɛəriˈeiʃən] – n. an instance of change; the rate or magnitude of change

varied [ˈvɛərid] – adj. widely different: varied motives prompt people to join a political party

variety [vəˈraiəti] – n. noticeable heterogeneity: the range and variety of his work is amazing

various [ˈvɛəriəs] – adj. of many different kinds purposefully arranged but lacking any uniformity: his disguises are many and various

vary [ˈvɛəri] – v. become different in some particular way, without permanently losing one’s or its former characteristics or essence

vast [vɑ:st] – adj. unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope: at vast (or immense) expense

VAT [væt] – n. a tax levied on the difference between a commodity’s price before taxes and its cost of production

vector  – n. a variable quantity that can be resolved into components

vegetable [ˈvedʒitəbl] – n. edible seeds or roots or stems or leaves or bulbs or tubers or nonsweet fruits of any of numerous herbaceous plant

vegetation [.vedʒiˈteiʃən] – n. all the plant life in a particular region or period: Pleistocene vegetation

vehicle [ˈvi:ikl] – n. a conveyance that transports people or objects

vein [vein] – n. a distinctive style or manner: he continued in this vein for several minutes

velocity [viˈlɔsiti] – n. distance travelled per unit time

velvet [ˈvelvit] – adj. smooth and soft to sight or hearing or touch or taste

vendor [ˈvendə] – n. someone who promotes or exchanges goods or services for money

venture [ˈventʃə] – n. an investment that is very risky but could yield great profits

venue [ˈvenju:] – n. in law: the jurisdiction where a trial will be held

verb [və:b] – n. a content word that denotes an action, occurrence, or state of existence

verbal [ˈvə:bəl] – adj. communicated in the form of words: verbal imagery

verdict [ˈvə:dikt] – n. (law) the findings of a jury on issues of fact submitted to it for decision; can be used in formulating a judgment

verse [və:s] – n. literature in metrical form

version [ˈvə:ʃən] – n. an interpretation of a matter from a particular viewpoint: his version of the fight was different from mine

vertical [ˈvə:tikəl] – adj. at right angles to the plane of the horizon or a base line: a vertical camera angle

very [ˈveri] – adj. precisely as stated: the very center of town

vessel [ˈvesl] – n. a tube in which a body fluid circulates

veteran [ˈvetərən] – n. a serviceman who has seen considerable active service: the veterans laughed at the new recruits

viable [ˈvaiəbəl] – adj. capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are

vicar  – n. a Roman Catholic priest who acts for another higher-ranking clergyman

vicious [ˈviʃəs] – adj. (of persons or their actions) able or disposed to inflict pain or suffering: vicious kicks

victim [ˈviktim] – n. an unfortunate person who suffers from some adverse circumstance

victory [ˈviktəri] – n. a successful ending of a struggle or contest: a narrow victory

video [ˈvidiəu] – n. the visible part of a television transmission

view [vju:] – n. a way of regarding situations or topics etc.: consider what follows from the positivist view

viewer [ˈvju:ə] – n. a close observer; someone who looks at something (such as an exhibition of some kind): television viewers

viewpoint [ˈvju:pɔint] – n. a mental position from which things are viewed: we should consider this problem from the viewpoint of the Russians

vigorous [ˈvigərəs] – adj. characterized by forceful and energetic action or activity: a vigorous hiker

villa [ˈvilə] – n. Mexican revolutionary leader (1877-1923)

village [ˈvilidʒ] – n. a community of people smaller than a town

villager  – n. one who has lived in a village most of their life

violation [.vaiəˈleiʃən] – n. a crime less serious than a felony

violence [ˈvaiələns] – n. an act of aggression (as one against a person who resists): he may accomplish by craft in the long run what he cannot do by force and violence in the short one

violent [ˈvaiələnt] – adj. acting with or marked by or resulting from great force or energy or emotional intensity: a violent attack

virgin [ˈvə:dʒin] – n. a person who has never had sex

virtual [ˈvə:tjuəl] – adj. being actually such in almost every respect: the once elegant temple lay in virtual ruin

virtually [ˈvɜ:tjʊəli] – adv. in essence or effect but not in fact: the strike virtually paralyzed the city

virtue [ˈvə:tju:] – n. the quality of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong

virus [ˈvaiərəs] – n. a harmful or corrupting agency: bigotry is a virus that must not be allowed to spread

visible [ˈvizəbl] – adj. capable of being seen; or open to easy view: a visible object

vision [ˈviʒən] – n. a vivid mental image: he had a vision of his own death

visit [ˈvizit] – v. go to see a place, as for entertainment

visitor [ˈvizitə] – n. someone who visits

visual [ˈvizjuəl] – adj. relating to or using sight: visual powers

vital [ˈvaitl] – adj. urgently needed; absolutely necessary: vital for a healthy society

vitamin [ˈvaitəmin] – n. any of a group of organic substances essential in small quantities to normal metabolism

vivid [ˈvivid] – adj. evoking lifelike images within the mind: a vivid description

vocabulary [vəˈkæbjuləri] – n. a listing of the words used in some enterprise

vocational [vəuˈkeiʃənəl] – adj. of or relating to a vocation or occupation; especially providing or undergoing training in special skills: vocational school

voice [vɔis] – n. the distinctive quality or pitch or condition of a person’s speech: A shrill voice sounded behind us

voltage [ˈvəultidʒ] – n. the difference in electrical charge between two points in a circuit expressed in volts

volume [ˈvɔljum] – n. the amount of 3-dimensional space occupied by an object: the gas expanded to twice its original volume

voluntary [ˈvɔləntəri] – n. (military) a person who freely enlists for service

volunteer [.vɔlənˈtiə] – n. (military) a person who freely enlists for service

vote [vəut] – n. the opinion of a group as determined by voting: they put the question to a vote

voter [ˈvəʊtə(r)] – n. a citizen who has a legal right to vote

voucher [ˈvautʃə] – n. a document that serves as evidence of some expenditure

voyage [ˈvɔiidʒ] – n. an act of traveling by water

vulnerable [ˈvʌlnərəbl] – adj. susceptible to attack: a vulnerable bridge

wage [weidʒ] – n. something that remunerates: wages were paid by check

wagon [ˈwægən] – n. any of various kinds of wheeled vehicles drawn by an animal or a tractor

waist [weist] – n. the narrowing of the body between the ribs and hips

wait [weit] – v. stay in one place and anticipate or expect something: I had to wait on line for an hour to get the tickets

waiter [ˈweitə] – n. a person whose occupation is to serve at table (as in a restaurant)

waiting  – adj. being and remaining ready and available for use: waiting cars and limousines lined the curb

wake [weik] – v. stop sleeping

walk [wɔ:k] – v. use one’s feet to advance; advance by steps: We walked instead of driving

walker [ˈwɔ:kə] – n. United States writer (born in 1944)

walking  – n. the act of traveling by foot: walking is a healthy form of exercise

wall [wɔ:l] – n. (anatomy) a layer (a lining or membrane) that encloses a structure: stomach walls

wander [ˈwɔndə] – v. move about aimlessly or without any destination, often in search of food or employment: the wandering Jew

want [wɔnt] – v. have need of: This piano wants the attention of a competent tuner

war [wɔ:] – n. the waging of armed conflict against an enemy: thousands of people were killed in the war

ward [wɔ:d] – n. a person who is under the protection or in the custody of another

wardrobe [ˈwɔ:drəub] – n. a tall piece of furniture that provides storage space for clothes; has a door and rails or hooks for hanging clothes

warehouse [ˈwɛəhaus] – n. a storehouse for goods and merchandise

warm [wɔ:m] – adj. having or producing a comfortable and agreeable degree of heat or imparting or maintaining heat: a warm body

warmth [wɔ:mθ] – n. the sensation caused by heat energy

warn [wɔ:n] – v. notify of danger, potential harm, or risk: The director warned him that he might be fired

warrant [ˈwɔ:rənt] – n. a writ from a court commanding police to perform specified acts

warranty [ˈwɔrənti] – n. a written assurance that some product or service will be provided or will meet certain specifications

warrior [ˈwɔriə] – n. someone engaged in or experienced in warfare

wartime  – n. a period of time during which there is armed conflict

wary [ˈweəri, ˈweri] – adj. openly distrustful and unwilling to confide

wash [wɔʃ] – v. clean with some chemical process

waste [weist] – v. spend thoughtlessly; throw away: He wasted his inheritance on his insincere friends

watch [wɔtʃ] – v. look attentively: watch a basketball game

water [ˈwɔ:tə] – n. once thought to be one of four elements composing the universe (Empedocles)

wave [weiv] – n. a movement like that of a sudden occurrence or increase in a specified phenomenon: a wave of settlers

way [wei] – n. how something is done or how it happens: a lonely way of life

weak [wi:k] – adj. wanting in physical strength: a weak pillar

weaken [ˈwi:kən] – v. lessen the strength of: The fever weakened his body

weakness [ˈwi:knis] – n. powerlessness revealed by an inability to act: in spite of their weakness the group remains active

wealth [welθ] – n. the state of being rich and affluent; having a plentiful supply of material goods and money: great wealth is not a sign of great intelligence

wealthy [ˈwelθi] – adj. having an abundant supply of money or possessions of value: wealthy corporations

weapon [ˈwepən] – n. any instrument or instrumentality used in fighting or hunting: he was licensed to carry a weapon

wear [wɛə] – v. be dressed in: She was wearing yellow that day

weather [ˈweðə] – v. face and withstand with courage

weave [wi:v] – v. create a piece of cloth by interlacing strands of fabric, such as wool or cotton

wedding [ˈwediŋ] – n. the social event at which the ceremony of marriage is performed

wee [wi:] – adj. (used informally) very small: a wee tot

weed [wi:d] – n. any plant that crowds out cultivated plants

week [wi:k] – n. any period of seven consecutive days: it rained for a week

weekend [ˈwi:kˈend] – n. a time period usually extending from Friday night through Sunday; more loosely defined as any period of successive days including one and only one Sunday

weekly [ˈwi:kli] – n. a periodical that is published every week (or 52 issues per year)

weep [wi:p] – v. shed tears because of sadness, rage, or pain

weigh [wei] – v. show consideration for; take into account

weight [weit] – n. the vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity

weird [wiəd] – adj. suggesting the operation of supernatural influences: the three weird sisters

welcome [ˈwelkəm] – v. accept gladly: I welcome your proposals

welfare [ˈwelfɛə] – n. governmental provision of economic assistance to persons in need: she lives on welfare

well [wel] – adv. thoroughly or completely; fully; often used as a combining form: The problem is well understood

well-known [.welˈnəun] – adj. widely or fully known: a well-known politician

west [west] – n. the countries of (originally) Europe and (now including) North America and South America

western [ˈwestən] – adj. of or characteristic of regions of the United States west of the Mississippi River

wet [wet] – adj. covered or soaked with a liquid such as water: a wet bathing suit

whale [weil] – n. a very large person; impressive in size or qualities

wheat [wi:t] – n. annual or biennial grass having erect flower spikes and light brown grains

wheel [wi:l] – n. forces that provide energy and direction: the wheels of government began to turn

wherever [wɛərˈevə] – adv. where in the world

while [wail] – n. a period of indeterminate length (usually short) marked by some action or condition: he was here for a little while

whip [wip] – v. defeat thoroughly

whisky [ˈwiski] – n. a liquor made from fermented mash of grain

whisper [ˈwispə] – n. speaking softly without vibration of the vocal cords

white [wait] – n. a member of the Caucasoid race

whole [həul] – adj. (of siblings) having the same parents: whole brothers and sisters

wholly [ˈhəulli] – adv. to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole’ is often used informally for `wholly’): he was wholly convinced

why [wai] – n. the cause or intention underlying an action or situation, especially in the phrase `the whys and wherefores’

wicket  – n. cricket equipment consisting of a set of three stumps topped by crosspieces; used in playing cricket

wide [waid] – adj. having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other: wide roads

widely [ˈwaidli] – adv. to a great degree: her work is widely known

widen [ˈwaidn] – v. make (clothes) larger

widespread [ˈwaidspred] – adj. widely circulated or diffused: a widespread doctrine

widow [ˈwidəu] – n. a woman whose husband is dead especially one who has not remarried

width [widθ] – n. the extent of something from side to side

wife [waif] – n. a married woman; a man’s partner in marriage

wild [waild] – adj. marked by extreme lack of restraint or control: wild talk

wildlife [ˈwaildlaif] – n. all living things (except people) that are undomesticated: chemicals could kill all the wildlife

wildly  – adv. to an extreme or greatly exaggerated degree: the storyline is wildly unrealistic

will [wil] – n. the capability of conscious choice and decision and intention

willing [ˈwiliŋ] – adj. disposed or inclined toward: a willing participant

willingness [ˈwiliŋnis] – n. cheerful compliance: he expressed his willingness to help

win [win] – v. obtain advantages, such as points, etc.

wind [waind,wind] – n. a tendency or force that influences events: the winds of change

window [ˈwindəu] – n. a transparent opening in a vehicle that allow vision out of the sides or back; usually is capable of being opened

wine [wain] – n. fermented juice (of grapes especially)

wing [wiŋ] – n. a movable organ for flying (one of a pair)

winner [ˈwinə] – n. a gambler who wins a bet

winning  – adj. having won: the winning team

winter [ˈwintə] – v. spend the winter: We wintered on the Riviera

wipe [waip] – n. the act of rubbing or wiping

wire [ˈwaiə] – v. provide with electrical circuits: wire the addition to the house

wisdom [ˈwizdəm] – n. accumulated knowledge or erudition or enlightenment

wise [waiz] – adj. marked by the exercise of good judgment or common sense in practical matters: a wise decision

wish [wiʃ] – v. feel or express a desire or hope concerning the future or fortune of