Tina Tang的部落格

squarish (adj.) /ˈskwerɪʃ/

definition:

having a shape that is almost like a square

ex:

The opera house which is all silvery twists and curves is the aesthetic opposite of the squarish museum.

frame (n.) /ˈfreɪm/

definition:

the basic structure and shape of the body of a person or animal

ex:

She had to extend every inch of her five-foot frame [=body] to reach the top shelf.

cupolas (n.) /ˈkjuːpələ/

definition:

a rounded roof or part of a roof

ex:

I pop up the top, and there's a cupola.

spire (n.) /ˈspajɚ/

definition:

a tall, narrow, pointed structure on the top of a building

ex:

The church spire was struck by lightning.

scroll (n.) /ˈskroʊl/

definition:

a long piece of paper that rolls around one or two cylinders and that usually has something written or drawn on it

ex:

He was presented with a scroll commemorating his achievements.

balcony (n.) /ˈbælkəni/

definition:

a raised platform that is connected to the side of a building and surrounded by a low wall or railing

ex:

We asked for a hotel room with a balcony.

lissome (adj.) /ˈlɪsəm/

definition:

thin and graceful — usually used of women

ex:

However, a filmmaker from South has succeeded in breaking the reserve of the lissome lass.

garage (n.) /ˈgærɪʤ/

definition:

a shop where vehicles are repaired

ex:

My car was making a strange noise, so I brought it to the garage.

gin (n.) /ˈʤɪn/

definition:

a clear alcoholic drink that is flavored with juniper berries

ex:

I'll have a gin and tonic, please.

encroach (v.) /ɪnˈkroʊtʃ/

definition:

to gradually move or go into an area that is beyond the usual or desired limits

ex:

The suburbs encroach further into the rural areas each year.

obliterate (v.) /əˈblɪtəˌreɪt/

definition:

to destroy (something) completely so that nothing is left

ex:

The tide eventually obliterated [=wiped out] all evidence of our sand castles.

august (adj.) /ɑˈgʌst/

definition:

having a formal and impressive quality

ex:

We visited their august mansion and expansive grounds.

coquette (n.) /koʊˈkɛt/

definition:

a woman who likes to win the attention or admiration of men but does not have serious feelings for them

ex:

She had a reputation of being a frivolous coquette.

decay (v.) /dɪˈkeɪ/

definition:

to be slowly destroyed by natural processes : to be slowly broken down by the natural processes that destroy a dead plant or body

ex:

Tomatoes that fall off the vine will decay [=rot] on the ground.

wagon (n.) /ˈwægən/

definition:

a vehicle with four wheels that is used for carrying heavy loads or passengers and that is usually pulled by animals (such as horses)

ex:

Pioneers crossed the American Midwest in wagons.

eyesore (n.) /ˈaɪˌsoɚ/

definition:

an ugly object or building

ex:

The shack is a real eyesore.

cemetery (n.) /ˈsɛməˌteri/

definition:

a place where dead people are buried

ex:

His remains were interred in the cemetery.

hereditary (adj.) /həˈrɛdəˌteri/

definition:

passed or able to be passed from parent to child before birth

ex:

He suffers from a rare hereditary condition.

apron (n.) /ˈeɪprən/

definition:

a piece of clothing that is worn on the front of the body over clothes to keep them from getting dirty

ex:

She accidentally splashed oil over her apron while cooking lunch.

dispensation (n.) /ˌdɪspənˈseɪʃən/

definition:

permission to break a law or an official promise you have made : release from a rule, vow, or oath

ex:

The priest asked for dispensation from his vows.

perpetuity (n.) /ˌpɚpəˈtuːwəti/

definition:

the state of continuing forever or for a very long time

ex:

The land will be passed on from generation to generation in perpetuity.

charity (n.) /ˈtʃerəti/

definition:

the act of giving money, food, or other kinds of help to people who are poor, sick, etc.

ex:

The holidays are a time for charity and good will.

archaic (adj.) /ɑɚˈkejɪk/

definition:

old and no longer useful

ex:

The company needs to update its archaic computer systems.

calligraphy(n.) /kəˈlɪgrəfi/

definition:

the art of making beautiful handwriting

ex:

Her calligraphy was the clearest I'd ever seen.

deputation (n.) /ˌdɛpjəˈteɪʃən/

definition:

a group of people who are sent to a place to represent other people

ex:

Many countries will be sending deputations to the peace conference.

cadaver (n.) /kəˈdævɚ/

definition:

a dead body

ex:

Examination of a cadaver is to determine the cause of death.

cadence (n.) /ˈkeɪdn̩s/

definition:

a regular beat or rhythm

ex:

Oars moved back and forth in smooth cadence.

cascade (n.) /kæˈskeɪd/

definition:

a large number of things that happen quickly in a series

ex:

That decision set off a cascade of events.

motorcade (n.) /ˈmoʊtɚˌkeɪd/

definition:

a group or line of cars or other vehicles that travel together

ex:

He asked a few questions and then sped off in his motorcade.

calorie (n.) /ˈkæləri/

definition:

a unit of heat used to indicate the amount of energy that foods will produce in the human body

ex:

The unit of heat energy commonly used in physics is the calorie.

crescendo (n.) /krəˈʃɛndoʊ/

definition:

the highest or loudest point of something that increases gradually

ex:

The excitement reaches its crescendo [=climax, peak] when he comes on stage.

chronometer (n.) /krəˈnɑːmətɚ/

definition:

a watch or clock that measures time very exactly

ex:

Murchison followed with his eye the hand of his chronometer.

decapitate (v.) /dɪˈkæpəˌteɪt/

definition:

to cut off the head of (a person or animal)

ex:

Hundreds were decapitated [=beheaded] by the guillotine.

carnivore (n.) /ˈkɑɚnəˌvoɚ/

definition:

an animal that eats meat : a meat eater — sometimes used humorously to refer to people who eat meat

ex:

Many of my friends are vegetarians, but I'm a carnivore.

incarnate (adj.) /ɪnˈkɑɚnət/

definition:

having a human body
ex:

He treats her as though she's the devil incarnate.

reincarnation (n.) /ˌriːjənˌkɑɚˈneɪʃən/

definition:

the idea or belief that people are born again with a different body after death

ex:

Many people believe in reincarnation.

carnal (adj.) /ˈkɑɚnl̟/

definition:

of or relating to the body : sexual or sensual

ex:

Our life on earth is, and ought to be , material and carnal.

catheter (n.) /ˈkæθətɚ/

definition:

a thin tube that is put into the body to remove or inject a liquid or to keep a passage open

ex:

It means you wouldn't have to wear the catheter all the time.

caustic (adj.) /ˈkɑːstɪk/

definition:

able to destroy or burn something by chemical action

ex:

The chemical was so caustic that it ate through the pipes.

cauldron (n.) /ˈkɑːldrən/

definition:

a large pot

ex:

Several men were thrown into a boiling cauldron.

cauterize (v.) /ˈkɑːtəˌraɪz/

definition:

to burn (something, such as a wound) with heat or a chemical substance in order to destroy infected tissue

ex:

The doctors cauterized the wound.

accusation (n.) /ˌækjəˈzeɪʃən/

definition:

a claim that someone has done something wrong or illegal : a charge that someone has committed a fault or crime

ex:

Investigators have made/brought/leveled accusations of corruption against a group of former officials.

centennial (n.) /sɛnˈtɛniəl/

definition:

the 100th anniversary of something (such as an important event)

ex:

We're celebrating the museum's centennial this summer.

centipede (n.) /ˈsɛntəˌpiːd/

definition:

a small creature that is like an insect and that has a long, thin body and many legs

ex:

The creature is a tiny centipede, just 10 millimeters long.

centrifugal (adj.) /sɛnˈtrɪfjəgəl/

definition:

moving away from a center : acting in a direction away from a center

ex:

The hand driven generator is equipped with a centrifugal governor.

chrome (n.) /ˈkroʊm/

definition:

a type of metal that is used to cover other metals in order to make them shiny

ex:

There is a lot of chrome on cars of that model.

chromosome (n.) /ˈkroʊməˌsoʊm/

definition:

the part of a cell that contains the genes which control how an animal or plant grows and what it becomes

ex:

Chromosome material with exhibits of such behavior is called heterochromatin.

curator (n.) /ˈkjurˌeɪtɚ/

definition:

a person who is in charge of the things in a museum, zoo, etc.

ex:

Curator conducted the visitors round the museum.

chromatic (adj.) /kroʊˈmætɪk/

definition:

of or relating to a musical scale that has all semitones

ex:

The removal of the chromatic aberration is then of primary importance.

synchronize (v.) /ˈsɪŋkrəˌnaɪz/

definition:
to cause (things) to agree in time or to make (things) happen at the same time and speed

ex:

They synchronized their watches.

autonomous (adj.) /ɑˈtɑːnəməs/

definition:

existing or acting separately from other things or people

ex:

Many disabled children become autonomous [=self-sufficient] adults.

automate (v.) /ˈɑːtəˌmeɪt/

definition:

to run or operate (something, such as a factory or system) by using machines, computers, etc., instead of people to do the work

ex:

The company recently automated its filing process.

barometer (n.) /bəˈrɑːmətɚ/

definition:

something that is used to indicate or predict something

ex:

The test is used as a barometer [=standard] to measure a student's reading level.

berate (v.) /bɪˈreɪt/

definition:

to yell at (someone) : to criticize (someone) in a loud and angry way

ex:

She berated [=scolded] her son for coming home late.

bedeck (v.) /bɪˈdɛk/

definition:

to decorate (someone or something) with things : to add decorative things to (something or someone)

ex:

She was bedecked in gold and jewels.

bespeak (v.) /bɪˈspiːk/

definition:

to be evidence of (something) : to be a sign of (something)

ex:

Her newest album bespeaks a great talent for writing songs.

belittle (v.) /biˈlɪtl̟/

definition:

to describe (someone or something) as little or unimportant

ex:

Her detractors are in the habit of belittling her accomplishments.

beleaguer (v.) /bɪˈliːgɚ/

definition:

to cause constant or repeated trouble for (a person, business, etc.)

ex:

The team has been beleaguered by errors.

belligerent (adj.) /bəˈlɪʤərənt/

definition:

angry and aggressive : feeling or showing readiness to fight

ex:

He was drunk and belligerent.

bellicose (adj.) /ˈbɛlɪˌkoʊs/

definition:

having or showing a tendency to argue or fight

ex:

It's by cultivating one bellicose identity that violence is often fostered.

benefactor (n.) /ˈbɛnəˌfæktɚ/

definition:

someone who helps another person, group, etc., by giving money

ex:

With the help of a rich benefactor he set up a charity.

benevolent (adj.) /bəˈnɛvələnt/

definition:

organized to do good things for other people

ex:

He belonged to several benevolent societies and charitable organizations.

benediction (n.) /ˌbɛnəˈdɪkʃən/

definition:

a prayer that asks for God's blessing

ex:

He dismissed the congregation with a benediction.

beneficiary (n.) /ˌbɛnəˈfɪʃiˌeri/

definition:

a person, organization, etc., that is helped by something : someone or something that benefits from something

ex:

The college was a beneficiary of the private grant.

biped (n.) /ˈbaɪˌpɛd/

definition:

a 2-footed animal

ex:

Human beings are bipeds.

bifurcate (v.) /ˈbaɪfɚˌkeɪt/

definition:

to divide into two parts

ex:

The stream bifurcated into two narrow winding channels.

biweekly (adj.) /baɪˈwiːkli/

definition:

happening every two weeks

ex:

The biweekly sales meeting is scheduled for every other Tuesday.

bivalve (n.) /ˈbaɪˌvælv/

definition:

a sea animal that has a shell with two movable parts connected by a hinge

ex:

But did you ever notice anyone try to open the terrestrial bivalve with a typewriter?

biannual (adj.) /baɪˈænjəwəl/

definition:

happening twice a year

ex:

The group holds biannual meetings in December and July.

bibliophile (n.) /ˈbɪblijəˌfajəl/

definition:

a person who loves or collects books

ex:

Ted loves everything about books. He is a real bibliophile.

bibliography (n.) /ˌbɪbliˈɑːgrəfi/

definition:

a list of books, magazines, articles, etc., about a particular subject

ex:

The instructor provided the students with an excellent bibliography on local history.

biography (n.) /baɪˈɑːgrəfi/

definition:

the story of a real person's life written by someone other than that person

ex:

Boswell wrote a famous biography of Dr. White.

biology (n.) /baɪˈɑːləʤi/

definition:

a science that deals with things that are alive (such as plants and animals)

ex:

The college biology department has diversified by adding new courses in biotechnology.

blimey (inj.) /ˈblaɪmi/

definition:

used to express surprise or amazement

ex:

“I've won the lottery.” “Blimey! I can't believe it!”

biosphere (n.) /ˈbajəˌsfiɚ/

definition:

the part of the Earth in which life can exist

ex:

The entire biosphere was becoming more transparent.

asteroid (n.) /ˈæstəˌroɪd/

definition:

any one of thousands of small planets that circle around the sun

ex:

Most asteroids are found between Mars and Jupiter.

electorate (n.) /ɪˈlɛktərət/

definition:

the people who can vote in an election — usually singular

ex:

The candidates try hard to appeal to the electorate. [=voters]

delegate (n.) /ˈdɛlɪgət/

definition:

a person who is chosen or elected to vote or act for others

ex:

He's been chosen as a delegate to the convention.

ameliorate (v.) /əˈmiːljəˌreɪt/

definition:

to make (something, such as a problem) better, less painful, etc.

ex:

This medicine should help ameliorate the pain.

amputate (v.) /ˈæmpjəˌteɪt/

definition:

to cut off (part of a person's body)

ex:

His arm/leg was badly injured and had to be amputated.

collegiate (adj.) /kəˈliːʤət/

definition:

of or relating to a college or its students

ex:

He is truly a revolutionary poet rather than a collegiate theatre student.

inviolate (adj.) /ɪnˈvajələt/

definition:

not harmed or changed

ex:

These rights must remain inviolate.

specialize (v.) /ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz/

definition:

to limit your business or area of study to one specific subject

ex:

Some carpenters do a wide range of jobs, while others specialize.

aggravation (n.) /ˌægrəˈveɪʃən/

definition:

something that annoys or bothers someone : something that aggravates someone

ex:

The weather was a source of aggravation for us. [=we were annoyed by the weather.]

alternate (v.) /ˈɑːltɚˌneɪt/

definition:

to place or do (different things) so that one follows the other in a repeated series

ex:

To make the appetizer, you should alternate layers of tomatoes and cheese.

augment (v.) /ɑgˈmɛnt/

definition:

to increase the size or amount of (something)

ex:

Heavy rains augmented the water supply.

doctrine (n.) /ˈdɑːktrən/

definition:

a set of ideas or beliefs that are taught or believed to be true

ex:

The government was founded on a doctrine of equality for all people.

auction (n.) /ˈɑːkʃən/

definition:

a public sale at which things are sold to the people who offer to pay the most

ex:

She bought the desk at an auction.

audible (adj.) /ˈɑːdəbəl/

definition:

heard or able to be heard

ex:

Her voice was barely audible over the noise.

auditorium (n.) /ˌɑːdəˈtorijəm/

definition:

a large room or building where people gather to watch a performance, hear a speech, etc.

ex:

We'll have the meeting in the classroom rather than in the auditorium.

audiovisual (adj.) /ˌɑːdijoʊˈvɪʒəwəl/

definition:

of, relating to, or using both sound and images

ex:

The school will buy new audiovisual equipment.

audition (n.) /ɑˈdɪʃən/

definition:

a short performance to show the talents of someone (such as an actor or a musician) who is being considered for a role in a play, a position in an orchestra, etc.

ex:

Auditions will be held next week for the spring musical.

oracle (n.) /ˈorəkəl/

definition:

a person who has a lot of knowledge about something and whose opinions and advice are highly valued

ex:

I met her long before she had become the oracle of pop culture.

escalate (v.) /ˈɛskəˌleɪt/

definition:

to become worse or to make (something) worse or more severe

ex:

The conflict has escalated into an all-out war.

augur (v.) /ˈɑːgɚ/

definition:

to show or suggest something that might happen in the future

ex:

The change augurs ill/badly for the success of the business.

augment (v.) /ɑgˈmɛnt/

definition:

to increase the size or amount of (something)

ex:

The money augmented his fortune.

auction (n.) /ˈɑːkʃən/

definition:

a public sale at which things are sold to the people who offer to pay the most

ex:

She bought the desk at an auction.

automobile (n.) /ˌɑːtəmoʊˈbiːl/

definition:

a vehicle used for carrying passengers on streets and roads

ex:

He drives an expensive automobile.

automotive (adj.) /ˌɑːtəˈmoʊtɪv/

definition:

of, relating to, or concerned with cars and other vehicles

ex:

The store stocks automotive parts.

autograph (n.) /ˈɑːtəˌgræf/

definition:

the signature of a famous person

ex:

There were several autograph seekers/hounds outside the theater.

antediluvian (adj.) /ˌæntɪdəˈluːvijən/

definition:

very old or old-fashioned

ex:

He has antediluvian notions/ideas about the role of women in the workplace.

anthropology (n.) /ˌænθrəˈpɑːləʤi/

definition:

the study of human races, origins, societies, and cultures

ex:

Social anthropology is centrally concerned with the diversity of culture.

misanthrope (n.) /ˈmɪsn̩ˌθroʊp/

definition:

a person who does not like other people

ex:

No matter how much of a misanthrope you are there is such a thing as entropy and it will catch up with you sooner or later.

philanthropy (n.) /fəˈlænθrəpi/

definition:

the practice of giving money and time to help make life better for other people

ex:

The family's philanthropy made it possible to build the public library.

antisocial (adj.) /ˌænˌtaɪˈsoʊʃəl/

definition:

not friendly to other people

ex:

Jane's very friendly, but her husband's rather antisocial.

antiseptic (n.) /ˌæntəˈsɛptɪk/

definition:

a substance that prevents infection in a wound by killing bacteria

ex:

Clean the affected area with an antiseptic.

antithesis (n.) /ænˈtɪθəsəs/

definition:

the exact opposite of something or someone

ex:

His lifestyle is the antithesis of healthy living.

antibody (n.) /ˈæntɪˌbɑːdi/

definition:

a substance produced by the body to fight disease

ex:

If the antibody reacted, the blood was tainted and should be discarded.

anatomy (n.) /əˈnætəmi/

definition:

the study of the structure of living things

ex:

We had to take a class on/in anatomy.

antifreeze (n.) /ˈæntɪˌfriːz/

definition:

a substance that is added to the water in a vehicle's engine to prevent it from freezing

ex:

Fill the cooling system with antifreeze as a protection against frost.

antipathy (n.) /ænˈtɪpəθi/

definition:

a strong feeling of dislike

ex:

There has always been strong antipathy between the two groups.

antiquated (adj.) /ˈæntəˌkweɪtəd/

definition:

very old and no longer useful, popular, or accepted : very old-fashioned or obsolete

ex:

He has some pretty antiquated opinions about politics.

antiquity (n.) /ænˈtɪkwəti/

definition:

ancient times

ex:

The statue was brought to Rome in antiquity.

apocalypse (n.) /əˈpɑːkəˌlɪps/

definition:

a great disaster : a sudden and very bad event that causes much fear, loss, or destruction

ex:

His book tells of an environmental apocalypse.

phew (inj.) /ˈfjuː/

definition:

used to show that you are relieved, tired, hot, or disgusted

ex:

Phew! I thought we were going to miss the bus!

aqueous (adj.) /ˈeɪkwijəs/

definition:

containing water or similar to water

ex:

Clearly aqueous preservative systems must possess a fixation mechanism.

unitary (adj.) /ˈjuːnəˌteri/

definition:

relating to or forming a single unit

ex:

The United Kingdom is a unitary, not a federal, state.

archangel (n.) /ˈɑɚkˌeɪnʤəl/

definition:

an angel of the highest rank

ex:

Here we see the young man, Tobias , being watched over by the archangel Raphael.

monarchy (n.) /ˈmɑnɚki/

definition:

country that is ruled by a monarch (such as a king or queen)

ex:

The King is a mighty monarch but full of pride, harsh and cruel.

matriarchy (n.) /ˈmeɪtriˌɑɚki/

definition:

a family, group, or government controlled by a woman or a group of women

ex:

For 20 years, the country was ruled as a matriarchy.

patriarchy (n.) /ˈpeɪtriˌɑɚki/

definition:

a family, group, or government controlled by a man or a group of men

ex:

China's patriarchy is a feudal holdover, scholars say land power.

braggart (n.) /ˈbrægɚt/

definition:

a person who brags a lot

ex:

Don't play the braggart.

drunkard (n.) /ˈdrʌŋkɚd/

definition:

a person who is drunk or who often gets drunk

ex:

Her father was a drunkard.

aster (n.) /ˈæstɚ/

definition:

a type of plant that is grown in gardens for its colorful flowers

ex:

This white aster is magnificent.

asterisk (n.) /ˈæstəˌrɪsk/

definition:

a symbol * that is used in printed text especially to tell someone to read a note that can be found at the bottom of a page

ex:

A tiny asterisk conducted me to a footnote at the bottom of the page.

ambitious (adj.) /æmˈbɪʃəs/

definition:

having ambition : having a desire to be successful, powerful, or famous

ex:

The company was created by two very ambitious young men in the early 1900s.

amble (v.) /ˈæmbəl/

definition:

to walk slowly in a free and relaxed way

ex:

We ambled along as we talked.

ambulance (n.) /ˈæmbjələns/

definition:

a vehicle used for taking hurt or sick people to the hospital especially in emergencies

ex:

She was taken by ambulance [=in an ambulance] to the hospital.

semifinal (n.) /ˈsɛmiˌfaɪnl̟/

definition:

either one of two matches, games, or contests to decide which people or teams will be in the final part of a competition (such as a series of races or a tennis tournament)

ex:

She played against a lesser-known rival in the (women's) semifinal.

artisan (n.) /ˈɑɚtəzən/

definition:

a person who is skilled at making things by hand : craftsperson

ex:

They sell rugs made by local artisans.

anode (n.) /ˈæˌnoʊd/

definition:

the part of an electrical device (such as a battery) from which electrons leave

ex:

The reverse process may proceed at the anode.

anagram (n.) /ˈænəˌgræm/

definition:

a word or phrase made by changing the order of the letters in another word or phrase

ex:

The word “secure” is an anagram of “rescue.”

pungent (adj.) /ˈpʌnʤənt/

definition:

having a strong, sharp taste or smell

ex:

The more herbs you use, the more pungent the sauce will be.

extravagance (n.) /ɪkˈstrævɪgəns/

definition:

the act or practice of spending a lot of money : wasteful or careless spending

ex:

The reorganization of the department was aimed at reducing extravagance.

fraudulent (adj.) /ˈfrɑːʤələnt/

definition:

done to trick someone for the purpose of getting something valuable

ex:

Corrupt leaders were chosen in a fraudulent election.

vacancy (n.) /ˈveɪkənsi/

definition:

a job or position that is available to be taken

ex:

School administrators are trying to fill vacancies before the beginning of the school year.

truant (n.) /ˈtruːwənt/

definition:

a student who misses school without permission

ex:

I found the truant throwing stones in the river.

latent (adj.) /ˈleɪtn̩t/

definition:

used to describe something (such as a disease) that exists but is not active or cannot be seen

ex:

The house they bought had latent defects.

forceps (n.) /ˈfoɚˌsɛps/

definition:

a medical tool that is used for grasping or holding things

ex:

He removed the splinter with a (pair of) forceps.

reciprocate (v.) /rɪˈsɪprəˌkeɪt/

definition:

to do (something) for or to someone who has done something similar for or to you

ex:

She was harshly criticized, but she did not defend herself or reciprocate in any way.

animosity (n.) /ˌænəˈmɑːsəti/

definition:

a strong feeling of dislike or hatred

ex:

There has always been animosity [=hostility] between them.

annuity (n.) /əˈnuːəti/

definition:

a fixed amount of money that is paid to someone each year

ex:

He have a government annuity or an annuity from the government.

perennial (adj.) /pəˈrɛnijəl/

definition:

existing or continuing in the same way for a long time

ex:

Hot dogs are a perennial favorite at barbecues.

disinfectant (n.) /ˌdɪsɪnˈfɛktənt/

definition:

a chemical substance that is used to kill harmful germs and bacteria : a substance that disinfects something

ex:

They use a strong disinfectant on the medical equipment.

fragrant (adj.) /ˈfreɪgrənt/

definition:

having a pleasant and usually sweet smell

ex:

The soup was fragrant with herbs and spices.

anterior (adj.) /ænˈtirijɚ/

definition:

near or toward the front of something (such as the body)

ex:

We've already finished the work anterior to the schedule.

anteroom (n.) /ˈæntɪˌruːm/

definition:

a small room that is connected to a larger room and used as a place for people to wait before going into the larger room

ex:

He had been standing rounds of gin in the anteroom and was slightly boisterous.

antebellum (adj.)

definition:

occurring in the southern U.S. during the time before the American Civil War

ex:

Itas true in today's world as it was in the antebellum South: cotton is king.

antedate (v.) /ˈæntɪˌdeɪt/

definition:

to be earlier or older than (something)

ex:

The church antedates the village itself.

antecedent (n.) /ˌæntəˈsiːdənt/

definition:

grammar : a word or phrase that is represented by another word (such as a pronoun)

ex:

“John” is the antecedent of the pronoun “him” in “Mary saw John and thanked him.”

aerial (adj.) /ˈerijəl/

definition:

performed in the air

ex:

Aerial photography has revolutionized the study of archaeology.

aerosol (n.) /ˈerəˌsɑːl/

definition:

a substance (such as hair spray or medicine) that is kept in a container under pressure and that is released as a fine spray when a button is pressed

ex:

They sprayed aerosol insect repellent into the faces of police.

hardwired (adj.) /ˈhɑɚdˌwajɚd/

definition:

having permanent electronic circuits and connections

ex:

Humans are all hardwired with some amount of ambition.

agitate (v.) /ˈæʤəˌteɪt/

definition:

to disturb, excite, or anger (someone)

ex:

If I talk about the problem with him it just agitates him even more.

navigate (v.) /ˈnævəˌgeɪt/

definition:

to find the way to get to a place when you are traveling in a ship, airplane, car, etc.

ex:

For thousands of years, sailors navigated by the stars.

suffrage (n.) /ˈsʌfrɪʤ/

definition:

the right to vote in an election

ex:

She was active in the Society for Women's Suffrage.

shrinkage (n.) /ˈʃrɪŋkɪʤ/

definition:

the amount by which something becomes smaller or less

ex:

The shrinkage in contributions is significant.

tonnage (n.) /ˈtʌnɪʤ/

definition:

the size of a ship or the total weight that it carries in tons

ex:

The ship has a tonnage of twenty thousand.

brevity (n.) /ˈbrɛvəti/

definition:

the use of few words to say something

ex:

I've omitted certain passages for the sake of brevity.

referral (n.) /rɪˈfɚrəl/

definition:

the act of sending someone to another person or place for treatment, help, advice, etc.

ex:

She got a referral (to a specialist) from her doctor. = Her doctor gave her a referral.

disavow (v.) /ˌdɪsəˈvaʊ/

definition:

to say that you are not responsible for (something) : to deny that you know about or are involved in (something)

ex:

He disavowed the actions of his subordinates.

disposal (n.) /dɪˈspoʊzəl/

definition:

the act of throwing something away

ex:

The safe disposal of nuclear waste is a major problem.

albino (n.) /ælˈbaɪnoʊ/

definition:

a person or animal born with a medical condition that results in very pale skin, white hair, and pink eyes

ex:

I ended up living with this albino guy who was cleaning windshields.

albeit (conj.) /ɑlˈbiːjət/

definition:

even though/ although

ex:

She appeared on the show, albeit briefly.

alias (adv.) /ˈeɪlijəs/

definition:

also called : otherwise known as — used to indicate an additional name that a person (such as a criminal) sometimes uses

ex:

The thief was identified as John Smith, alias Richard Jones.

alibi (n.) /ˈæləˌbaɪ/

definition:

a claim that you cannot be guilty of a crime because you were somewhere else when the crime was committed

ex:

Nobody could confirm his alibi that he was at the movies.

alloy (n.) /ˈæˌloɪ/

definition:

a metal made by melting and mixing two or more metals or a metal and another material together

ex:

The worker worked in a little copper with the alloy.

altruism (n.) /ˈæltruːˌɪzəm/

definition:

feelings and behavior that show a desire to help other people and a lack of selfishness

ex:

In one final act of altruism, she donated almost all of her money to the hospital.

altimeter (n.) /ælˈtɪmətɚ/

definition:

an instrument used for measuring the altitude of something (such as an airplane or a mountain)

ex:

An altimeter is used for measuring height above sea - level.

amorous (adj.) /ˈæmərəs/

definition:

having or showing strong feelings of sexual attraction or love

ex:

Mary rejected Tony's amorous advances.

amiable (adj.) /ˈeɪmijəbəl/

definition:

friendly and pleasant

ex:

Everyone knew him as an amiable fellow.

amicable (adj.) /ˈæmɪkəbəl/

definition:

showing a polite and friendly desire to avoid disagreement and argument

ex:

The discussions were amicable.

enamored (adj.) /ɪˈnæmɚd/

definition:

in a state in which you love, admire, or are very interested in something or someone

ex:

My 12 - year - old daughter is enamored with the movie star Brad Pitt.

ambidextrous (adj.) /ˌæmbɪˈdɛkstrəs/

definition:

able to use both hands equally well

ex:

Jack is an ambidextrous hitter; he can bat right - handed or left - handed.

aggression (n.) /əˈgrɛʃən/

definition:

angry or violent behavior or feelings

ex:

He has a lot of pent-up aggression.

allocate (v.) /ˈæləˌkeɪt/

definition:

to divide and give out (something) for a special reason or to particular people, companies, etc.

ex:

Money from the sale of the house was allocated to each of the children.

annihilate (v.) /əˈnajəˌleɪt/

definition:

to destroy (something or someone) completely

ex:

Bombs annihilated the city.

apolitical (adj.) /ˌeɪpəˈlɪtɪkəl/

definition:

not political : not interested or involved in politics

ex:

Although both of her parents are politicians, she's completely apolitical.

atheist (n.) /ˈeɪθijɪst/

definition:

a person who believes that God does not exist

ex:

Even within the Hindu tradition, are many people who were atheist.

anarchy (n.) /ˈænɚki/

definition:

a situation of confusion and wild behavior in which the people in a country, group, organization, etc., are not controlled by rules or laws

ex:

Anarchy reigned in the empire's remote provinces.

apathy (n.) /ˈæpəθi/

definition:

the feeling of not having much emotion or interest : an apathetic state

ex:

People have shown surprising apathy toward/about these important social problems.

phallus (n.) /ˈfæləs/

definition:

an image or representation of a penis

ex:

This study provided a new tool for rapid reproduction of Amor pho - phallus.

anemia (n.) /əˈniːmijə/

definition:

a condition in which a person has fewer red blood cells than normal and feels very weak and tired

ex:

The doctors analyzed the blood sample for anemia.

absolve (v.) /əbˈzɑːlv/

definition:

to give forgiveness to (someone who has sinned) or for (a sin)

ex:

He asked the priest to absolve him (of his sins). = He asked the priest to absolve his sins.

acerbic (adj.) /əˈsɚbɪk/

definition:

expressing harsh or sharp criticism in a clever way

ex:

The letter was written in her usual acerbic style.

acid (n.) /ˈæsəd/

definition:

chemistry : a chemical with a sour taste that forms a salt when mixed with a base

ex:

This chemical acts a part of an acid in our experiment.

acrid (adj.) /ˈækrəd/

definition:

bitter and unpleasant in taste or smell

ex:

Thick, acrid smoke rose from the factory.

acrimony (n.) /ˈækrəˌmoʊni/

definition:

angry and bitter feelings

ex:

The dispute began again with increased acrimony.

agent (n.) /ˈeɪʤənt/

definition:

a person who does business for another person : a person who acts on behalf of another

ex:

They worked with a travel agent to plan their vacation.

agitate (v.) /ˈæʤəˌteɪt/

definition:

to disturb, excite, or anger (someone)

ex:

If I talk about the problem with him it just agitates him even more.

acute (adj.) /əˈkjuːt/

definition:

very serious or dangerous : requiring serious attention or action

ex:

There is an acute shortage of water.

acupuncture (n.) /ˈækjəˌpʌŋktʃɚ/

definition:

a method of relieving pain or curing illness by placing needles into a person's skin at particular points on the body

ex:

After the patient received acupuncture treatment, his spasms eased off somewhat.

accurate (adj.) /ˈækjərət/

definition:

free from mistakes or errors

ex:

The model is accurate down to the tiniest details.

infancy (n.) /ˈɪnfənsi/

definition:

the first part of a child's life : the time in your life when you are a baby

ex:

She was often sick during her infancy.

adequacy (adj.) /ˈædɪkwət/

definition:

enough for some need or requirement

ex:

Be sure to allow adequate time for the paint to dry.

intimacy (n.) /ˈɪntəməsi/

definition:

emotional warmth and closeness

ex:

And with the loss of strangeness, there was space for intimacy.

supremacy (n.) /səˈprɛməsi/

definition:

the quality or state of having more power, authority, or status than anyone else : the state of being supreme

ex:

Coal gave the region industrial supremacy.

blockade (n.) /blɑˈkeɪd/

definition:

an act of war in which one country uses ships to stop people or supplies from entering or leaving another country

ex:

It was quite some time before they break through the enemy's blockade.

lemonade (n.) /ˌlɛməˈneɪd/

definition:

a drink made usually of lemon juice, sugar, and water

ex:

She tasted her lemonade, and then added more sugar.

weirdo (n.) /ˈwiɚdoʊ/

definition:

a strange or unusual person

ex:

People think Wayne's a weirdo, but he's really a nice guy.

hump (v.) /ˈhʌmp/

definition:

chiefly British : to carry (something heavy)

ex:

They had to hump [=lug] the supplies far into the jungle.

derriere (n.) /ˌderiˈeɚ/

definition:

the part of the body you sit on buttocks

ex:

I slipped on the ice and fell on my derriere.

cozy (adj.) /ˈkoʊzi/

definition:

friendly and pleasant

ex:

We had a cozy dinner with the whole family.

brat (n.) /ˈbræt/

definition:

the child of a person whose career is in the army, navy, etc.

ex:

I was an army/navy/military brat.

cop (n.) /ˈkɑːp/

definition:

police officer

ex:

He threatened to call the cops on us.

dump (v.) /ˈdʌmp/

definition:

to put (something) somewhere in a quick and careless way

ex:

You can dump the coats on the bed.

bind (v.) /ˈbaɪnd/

definition:

to tie or wrap (something) with rope, string, etc.

ex:

She bound her hair in a ponytail.

wound (n.) /ˈwuːnd/

definition:

an injury that is caused when a knife, bullet, etc., cuts or breaks the skin

ex:

She suffered/received a knife/stab wound to/in her thigh.

rune (n.) /ˈruːn/

definition:

any of the characters in the alphabets that were used in ancient times by people of Northern Europe

ex:

Each rune had its own magical significance.

asylum (n.) /əˈsaɪləm/

definition:

protection given by a government to someone who has left another country in order to escape being harmed

ex:

She was granted asylum after it was made clear that she would be killed if she returned to her native country.

eccentric (adj.) /ɪkˈsɛntrɪk/

definition:

tending to act in strange or unusual ways

ex:

She is so eccentric that she is regarded as a bit of a curiosity.

truce (n.) /ˈtruːs/

definition:

an agreement between enemies or opponents to stop fighting, arguing, etc., for a certain period of time

ex:

There's been an uneasy truce between her and her parents for the past several months.

warlock (n.) /ˈwoɚˌlɑːk/

definition:

a man who has magical powers and practices witchcraft : a sorcerer or wizard

ex:

That's the nature of the warlock class.

replica (n.) /ˈrɛplɪkə/

definition:

an exact or very close copy of something

ex:

It's an authentic/exact/faithful/perfect replica of an ancient Greek urn.

chip (v.) /ˈtʃɪp/

definition:

to break off a small piece from (something)

ex:

I bit into something hard and chipped my tooth.

crusade (n.) /kruˈseɪd/

definition:

a major effort to change something

ex:

She has devoted herself to the crusade for equal rights for all people.

summon (v.) /ˈsʌmən/

definition:

to order (someone) to come to a place

ex:

The queen summoned him back to the palace.

immense (adj.) /ɪˈmɛns/

definition:

very great in size or amount

ex:

Her movies continue to enjoy immense [=enormous, tremendous] popularity.

idealistic (adj.) /aɪˈdiːjəˌlɪzəm/

definition:

believing that you should live according to high standards and principles, even if they cannot really be achieved, or showing this belief

ex:

The scheme was criticized as too idealistic and impracticable.

agoraphobic (n.) /ˌægərəˈfoʊbijə/

definition:

a fear of being in open or public places

ex:

Object To explore the effect of Eclectic Psychotherapy in agoraphobia.

hooker (n.) /ˈhʊkɚ/

definition:

prostitute, a woman who has sex with men for money

ex:

Where did she get that getup? She looks like a hooker.

angelic (adj.) /ænˈʤɛlɪk/

definition:

looking good, kind, and gentle

ex:

She had an angelic smile, but a dreadful temper.

widow (n.) /ˈwɪdoʊ/

definition:

a woman whose husband often leaves her alone while he plays sports or is involved in other activities

ex:

Everyone joked that she was a golf widow. [=a woman whose husband is often away playing golf]

lair (n.) /ˈleɚ/

definition:

a place where someone hides or where someone goes to be alone and to feel safe or comfortable

ex:

She runs the project from her private lair in the suburbs.

instrument (n.) /ˈɪnstrəmənt/

definition:

a tool or device used for a particular purpose

ex:

The murder weapon was a blunt instrument. [=an object without sharp edges or points]

faux pas (n.) /ˈfoʊˌpɑː/

definition:

an embarrassing social mistake

ex:

Arriving too early would be a serious/major faux pas.

juggernaut (n.) /ˈʤʌgɚˌnɑːt/

definition:

something (such as a force, campaign, or movement) that is extremely large and powerful and cannot be stopped

ex:

The group became a sales juggernaut in the commodity options business.

nefarious (adj.) /niˈferijəs/

definition:

evil or immoral

ex:

Why make a whole village prisoner if it was not to some nefarious purpose?

loin (n.) /ˈloɪn/

definition:

an area on the back of an animal's body near the tail

ex:

Pork loin is very lean meat and isn't too expensive.

slather (v.) /ˈslæðɚ/

definition:

to cover something with a thick layer of a liquid, cream, etc.

ex:

We ate lobster slathered with/in butter.

protuberance (n.) /proʊˈtuːbərəns/

definition:

a usually rounded part that sticks out from a surface

ex:

There was a small protuberance [=bulge] on the skull.

arid (adj.) /ˈerəd/

definition:

very dry : having very little rain or water

ex:

These trees will shield off arid winds and protect the fields.

zeal (n.) /ˈziːl/

definition:

a strong feeling of interest and enthusiasm that makes someone very eager or determined to do something

ex:

She attacked her homework with renewed zeal [=enthusiasm] after getting her first A.

crocus (n.) /ˈkroʊkəs/

definition:

a small purple, yellow, or white flower that blooms in the early spring

ex:

Bertha watched the lengthening days, the colored crocus spring from the ground, the snowdrops.

petal (n.) /ˈpɛtl̟/

definition:

one of the soft, colorful parts of a flower

ex:

Each white petal had a stripe of red.

morbid (adj.) /ˈmoɚbəd/

definition:

relating to unpleasant subjects (such as death)

ex:

She has a morbid interest in funerals.

tapestry (n.) /ˈtæpəstri/

definition:

a heavy cloth that has designs or pictures woven into it and that is used for wall hangings, curtains, etc.

ex:

The tapestry did but tremble in the wind, he shook.

fester (v.) /ˈfɛstɚ/

definition:

to become painful and infected

ex:

His wounds festered for days before he got medical attention.

turgid (adj.) /ˈtɚʤəd/

definition:

disapproving : very complicated and difficult to understand

ex:

He used to make extremely dull, turgid and frankly boring speeches.

flirt (v.) /ˈflɚt/

definition:

to behave in a way that shows a sexual attraction for someone but is not meant to be taken seriously

ex:

He used to flirt with every girl he met.

hallucinogenic (n.) /həˈluːsənəʤən/

definition:

a substance (such as a drug) that causes people to see or sense things that are not real : a substance that causes hallucinations

ex:

The contents of the images extend like hallucinogen.

vent (v.) /ˈvɛnt/

definition:

to allow (something, such as smoke or gas) to go out through an opening

ex:

Windows should be opened to vent the fumes.

paranoid (adj.) /ˈperəˌnoɪd/

definition:

having or showing an unreasonable feeling that people are trying to harm you, do not like you, etc.

ex:

It's nothing more than a paranoid fantasy.

freak (n.) /ˈfriːk/

definition:

informal: a person who is very interested or active in something specified

ex:

For the real speed freak, there is a 2 - litre, fuel - injection version of the car.

mundane (adj.) /ˌmʌnˈdeɪn/

definition:

dull and ordinary

ex:

Peace comes through rising above the mundane and seeing the larger picture.

agony (n.) /ˈægəni/

definition:

extreme mental or physical pain

ex:

She was in terrible agony after breaking her leg.

downgrade (v.) /ˈdaʊnˌgreɪd/

definition:

to give (someone or something) a lower rank or grade

ex:

If you confess to the crime, we may be able to downgrade [=reduce] the charge.

gingerbread (n.) /ˈʤɪnʤɚˌbrɛd/

definition:

a cake or cookie made with molasses and ginger

ex:

We made gingerbread men [=gingerbread cookies shaped like people] for the holidays.

block (v.) /ˈblɑːk/

definition:

to be placed in front of (something, such as a road or path) so that people or things cannot pass through

ex:

There's an accident blocking the road.

boardwalk (n.) /ˈboɚdˌwɑːk/

definition:

a wooden path along a beach

ex:

A boardwalk can be on the ground or raised above the ground several feet.

vein (n.) /ˈveɪn/

definition:

any one of the tubes that carry blood from parts of the body back to the heart

ex:

Passengers on long-haul flights are being warned about the risks of deep vein thrombosis.     

cloak (n.) /ˈkloʊk/

definition:

a thing that hides or covers someone or something

ex:

The soldiers began their attack under (the) cloak of darkness.

secrecy (n.) /ˈsiːkrəsi/

definition:

the act of keeping information secret

ex:

She swore him to secrecy. [=made him promise to keep a secret]

sting (v.) /ˈstɪŋ/

definition:

of an insect, plant, or animal : to hurt (someone) by piercing the skin with a sharp, pointed part that usually contains poison

[+ object]

ex:

I got stung by a bee.

exterior (adj.) /ɛkˈstirijɚ/

definition:

located on the outside of something

ex:

Beneath his brash exterior, he's still a little boy inside.

warrior (n.) /ˈworijɚ/

definition:

a person who fights in battles and is known for having courage and skill

ex:

The priestly caste does not normally intermarry with the warrior caste.

clutch (v.) /ˈklʌtʃ/

definition:

to hold onto (someone or something) tightly with your hand

ex:

I had to clutch the counter to keep from falling.

drench (v.) /ˈdrɛntʃ/

definition:

to make (someone or something) completely wet

ex:

She drenched him with a bucket of cold water.

pavement (n.) /ˈpeɪvmənt/

definition:

the hard surface of a road, driveway, etc.

ex:

He stopped the car just off the pavement.

hail (n.) /ˈheɪl/

definition:

pieces of ice that fall from clouds like rain

ex:

Many cars were damaged by hail during the storm.

stale (adj.) /ˈsteɪl/

definition:

of food : no longer good or appealing : no longer fresh

ex:

A miasma of stale alcohol hung around him.

breed (v.) /ˈbriːd/

definition:

to keep and take care of animals or plants in order to produce more animals or plants of a particular kind

ex:

He got into the business of breeding cattle.

greed (n.) /ˈgriːd/

definition:

a selfish desire to have more of something (especially money)

ex:

He was a ruthless businessman, motivated by naked ambition and greed.

demon (n.) /ˈdiːmən/

definition:

an evil spirit

ex:

All night long, the Arch - angel combated with the Demon.

sinner (n.) /ˈsɪnɚ/

definition:

someone who has done something wrong according to religious or moral law : someone who has sinned

ex:

God welcomes the sinner who repents.

crawl (v.) /ˈkrɑːl̟/

definition:

to move on your hands and knees

ex:

We got down on our knees and crawled through a small opening.

masquerade (n.) /ˌmæskəˈreɪd/

definition:

a way of appearing or behaving that is not true or real

ex:

Their happy marriage was all just a masquerade. [=charade]

weave (v.) /ˈwiːv/

definition:

to create something (such as a story) by combining different things in usually a complicated way

ex:

The author has woven an exciting tale of adventure and romance.

rain check (n.)

definition:

a promise to allow someone to buy or do something in the future because it is not possible to buy or do it now

ex:

The store offered rain checks when the sale items had all sold.

commodity (n.) /kəˈmɑːdəti/

definition:

something that is bought and sold

ex:

Oil is a commodity in high demand.

brow (n.) /ˈbraʊ/

definition:

the upper edge of a steep slope

ex:

He was on the look-out just below the brow of the hill.  

inhale (v.) /ɪnˈheɪl/

definition:

to breathe in

[+ object]

ex:

This medicine can now be inhaled.

exhale (v.) /eksˈheɪl/

definition:

to breathe out

[no object]

ex:

She inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly, trying to relax.

apocalypse (n.) /əˈpɑːkəˌlɪps/

definition:

a great disaster : a sudden and very bad event that causes much fear, loss, or destruction

ex:

His book tells of an environmental apocalypse.

tumble (v.) /ˈtʌmbəl/

definition:

to fall down suddenly and quickly

ex:

He tripped and tumbled to the ground.

optimist (n.) /ˈɑːptəmɪst/

definition:

a person who usually expects good things to happen

ex:

You have to be a bit of an optimist to start a business.

vice (n.) /ˈvaɪs/

definition:

a moral flaw or weakness

ex:

He thought gambling was a vice.

rubble (n.) /ˈrʌbəl/

definition:

broken pieces of stone, brick, etc., from walls or buildings that have fallen

ex:

Rescue workers managed to pull two injured people out of the rubble.

sin (n.) /ˈsɪn/

definition:

an action that is considered to be wrong according to religious or moral law

ex:

He committed the sin of stealing.

hound (n.) /ˈhaʊnd/

definition:

a person who is very determined to get something especially for a collection : a very enthusiastic collector

ex:

My sister is a movie hound.

chain (n.) /ˈtʃeɪn/

definition:

a series of usually metal links or rings that are connected to each other in a line and used for supporting heavy things, for holding things together, for decoration, etc.

ex:

The neighbor's dog is kept on a chain. [=is connected to a chain that keeps it from getting away]

finery (n.) /ˈfaɪnəri/

definition:

clothes, jewels, etc., that are expensive and beautiful

ex:

She was proud to show off her new evening finery.

fraud (n.) /ˈfrɑːd/

definition:

the crime of using dishonest methods to take something valuable from another person

ex:

He was found guilty of bank fraud.

spam (n.) /ˈspæm/

definition:

e-mail that is not wanted : e-mail that is sent to large numbers of people and that consists mostly of advertising

ex:

So you think you can help their tap find our spam files?

abyss (n.) /əˈbɪs/

definition:

a hole so deep or a space so great that it cannot be measured

ex:

I stood at the edge of the cliff and gazed down into the yawning/gaping abyss.

piracy (n.) /ˈpaɪrəsi/

definition:

the act of attacking and stealing from a ship at sea

ex:

They were mere apprentices to piracy.

trafficking (n.) /ˈtræfɪkɪŋ/

definition:

the act or business of illegally buying something and selling it especially in another country

ex:

She was convicted of drug trafficking.

reconcile (v.) /ˈrɛkənˌsajəl/

definition:

to find a way of making (two different ideas, facts, etc.) exist or be true at the same time

ex:

I'm afraid her story cannot be reconciled with the proven facts.

utility (n.) /juˈtɪləti/

definition:

the quality or state of being useful

ex:

Some experts question the utility [=usefulness] of the procedure.

comatose (adj.) /ˈkoʊməˌtoʊs/

definition:

in a coma

ex:

She lay in a comatose state.

align (v.) /əˈlaɪn/

definition:

to arrange things so that they form a line or are in proper position

[+ object]

ex:

The storekeeper carefully aligned [=lined up] the cans on the shelf.

delirious (adj.) /dɪˈlirijəs/

definition:

not able to think or speak clearly especially because of fever or other illness

ex:

As the child's temperature went up, he became delirious and didn't know where he was.

stereo (n.) /ˈsterijoʊ/

definition:

a piece of electronic equipment that plays the radio, CDs, etc., and that uses two speakers for the sound

ex:

He always plays his stereo with the bass turned right up.

tremolo (n.) /ˈtrɛməˌloʊ/

definition:

a musical sound made by a voice or instrument that seems to shake

ex:

The introduction presents arpeggios on the harp against a string tremolo -- an enchanting sonority.

indigo (n.) /ˈɪndɪˌgoʊ/

definition:

a deep purplish-blue color

ex:

The sky was indigo blue, and a great many stars were shining.

scenario (n.) /səˈnerijoʊ/

definition:

a description of what could possibly happen

ex:

A possible scenario would be that we move to the city.

innocuous (adj.) /ɪˈnɑːkjəwəs/

definition:

not likely to bother or offend anyone : inoffensive

ex:

He told a few innocuous jokes.

collide (v.) /kəˈlaɪd/

definition:

to hit something or each other with strong force : to crash together or to crash into something

ex:

Two football players collided on the field.

dictation (n.) /dɪkˈteɪʃən/

definition:

the act of speaking words that someone writes down or that a machine records

ex:

He used a tape recorder for dictation.

malefactor (n.) /ˈmæləˌfæktɚ/

definition:

someone who is guilty of a crime or offense : a person whose behavior is wrong or evil

ex:

He favors harsh punishment for chronic malefactors.

malevolent (adj.) /məˈlɛvələnt/

definition:

having or showing a desire to cause harm to another person

ex:

Her reputation has been hurt by malevolent gossip.

malfeasance (n.) /ˌmælˈfiːzn̩s/

definition:

illegal or dishonest activity especially by a public official or a corporation

ex:

The investigation has uncovered evidence of corporate malfeasance.

promethean (adj.) /prə-ˈmē-thē-ən/

definition:

of, relating to, or resembling Prometheus, his experiences, or his art; especially :  daringly original or creative

ex:

He offered a lot of promethean view, show skill of very distinctive investigation and study.

barren (adj.) /ˈberən/

definition:

having very few plants : not suitable for plants

ex:

The barren land could produce little food.

roar (v.) /ˈroɚ/

definition:

1. a.     to make a long, loud sound
2. b.     to laugh loudly

ex:

He began to roar when I took the chocolate away.

frigid (adj.) /ˈfrɪʤəd/

definition:

very cold

ex:

The character of the pine and cypress is shown in frigid winter ; the sincerity of one's friend is shown in adverse circumstances.

degree (n.) /dɪˈgriː/

definition:

a unit for measuring temperature

ex:

The greatest part of Europe is situated above the 45 th degree of Northern Latitude.

deafening (adj.) /ˈdɛfənɪŋ/

definition:

extremely loud

ex:

The noise of the siren was deafening her.

lethal (adj.) /ˈliːθəl/

definition:

causing or able to cause death

ex:

Frost and wet are the lethal combination for plants.

glow (v.) /ˈgloʊ/

definition:

to shine with low light and heat but usually without flame

ex:

The coals glowed in the fireplace.

howl (v.) /ˈhawəl/

definition:

of a dog, wolf, etc. : to make a long, loud cry that sounds sad

ex:

The dogs were howling at the moon.

swirl (v.) /ˈswɚl/

definition:

to move in circles or to cause (something) to move in circles

ex:

She swirled the drink (around) in her glass.

conceal (v.) /kənˈsiːl/

definition:

to keep (something) secret

ex:

The editorial accused the government of concealing the truth.

flurry (n.) /ˈflɚri/

definition:

a brief and light snowfall

ex:

We had a few flurries yesterday.

spiral (n.) /ˈspaɪrəl/

definition:

a circular curving line that goes around a central point while getting closer to or farther away from it

ex:

The glider flew in a wide spiral over the field.

fractal (n.) /ˈfɹæk.təl/

definition:

A mathematical set that has a non-integer and constant Hausdorff dimension; a geometric figure that is self-similar at all scales.

ex:

The fractal texture can describe the space characteristic information of image correctly.

fondue (n.) /fɑnˈduː/

definition:

a dish that people prepare for themselves at the table by putting small pieces of food (such as bread, meat, or fruit) in a hot liquid (such as melted and flavored cheese or melted chocolate)

ex:

Switzerland is well known for cheese fondue, penguin parades and its multiculturalism.

overdue (adj.) /ˌoʊvɚˈduː/

definition:

not paid at an expected or required time

ex:

She reminded him that the rent was overdue.

gorgeous (adj.) /ˈgoɚʤəs/

definition:

very beautiful or attractive

ex:

Your baby is absolutely gorgeous!

recount (v.) /rɪˈkaʊnt/

definition:

to tell someone about (something that happened) : to describe or give an account of (an event)

ex:

John later recounted how he got lost on the way home.

mulch (n.) /ˈmʌl̟tʃ/

definition:

a material (such as straw, leaves, or small pieces of wood) that is spread over the ground in a garden to protect the plants or help them grow and to stop weeds from growing

ex:

She spread some mulch around the plants.

perennial (adj.) /pəˈrɛnijəl/

definition:

existing or continuing in the same way for a long time

ex:

Hot dogs are a perennial favorite at barbecues.

wail (v.) /ˈweɪl/

definition:

to make a loud, long cry of sadness or pain

ex:

The child started wailing after she stumbled and fell.

impulsive (adj.) /ɪmˈpʌlsɪv/

definition:

someone who is impulsive tends to do things without thinking about what will happen as a result

ex:

Inviting them had been an impulsive gesture.

wail (v.) /weɪl/

definition:

to shout or cry with a long high sound to show that you are in pain or are very sad

ex:

The baby wailed all night.

writhe (v.) /raɪð/

definition:

to move by twisting and turning, especially when you feel a lot of pain

ex:

He writhed in agony on the ground.

pediatrician (n.) /ˌpiːdiəˈtrɪʃ(ə)n/

definition:

a doctor who treats babies and children

ex:

He's the best pediatrician in Westchester.

slam (v.) /slæm/

definition:

to shut a door or a lid with great force so that it makes a loud noise, often because you are angry

ex:

He ran from the room, slamming the door behind him.

infant (n.) /ˈɪnfənt/

definition:

a baby, or a very young child

ex:

Infants and elderly people are particularly at risk.

authoritative (adj.) /ɔˈθɒrɪtətɪv/

definition:

based on the best, most complete, and most reliable information

ex:

David speaks in an authoritative tone.

jerk (v.) /dʒɜ(r)k/

definition:

to move very suddenly, or to make something move suddenly

ex:

The taxi jerked to a stop outside a large hotel.

foliage (n.) /ˈfəʊliɪdʒ/

definition:

the leaves of a plant or tree

ex:

The path was completely covered by the dense foliage.

pleadingly (adv.) /ˈplidɪŋli/

definition:

if you say something pleadingly, or if you look at someone pleadingly, your voice or expression shows that you want something very much

ex:

Nelson looked at her pleadingly.

poll (n.) /pəʊl/

definition:

an occasion when a lot of people are asked what they feel about something, usually by a company paid by a political party, television program, etc.

ex:

They're worried about the government's present low standing in the polls.

remedy (n.) /ˈremədi/

definition:

a solution to a particular problem

ex:

Pericles foresaw that peace would lead to unemployment, and among his remedies was a public building program.

sob (v.) /sɒb/

definition:

to cry noisily while taking short breaths

ex:

I could hear her sobbing.

shin (n.) /ʃɪn/

definition:

the lower front part of your leg, between your knee and your ankle

ex:

I barked my shin on a tree stump

hurl (v.) /hɜ(r)l/

definition:

to throw something using a lot of force

ex:

Children were hurling snowballs at one another.

octave (n.) /ˈɒktɪv/

definition:

a series of eight musical notes in a musical scale

ex:

Her voice went down an octave.

ahem (inj.) /əˈhem/

definition:

used in writing to represent a sound that you make to get someone's attention in a polite and quiet way

ex:

Ahem, I wonder if I could raise this problem with you now.

pantomime (n.) /ˈpæntəˌmaɪm/

definition:

THEATRE in the UK, a play for children that makes them laugh, based on a traditional story and usually performed at Christmas

ex:

The audience roared at the pantomime.

affectionate (adj.) /əˈfekʃ(ə)nət/

definition:

showing that you love or care about someone or something

ex:

My best friend is thoughtful and affectionate.

ecosystem (n.) /ˈikəʊˌsɪstəm/

definition:

all the plants and animals in a particular area, considered as a system with parts that depend on one another

ex:

We all have an interest in maintaining the integrity of the ecosystem.

frontier (n.) /frʌnˈtɪə(r)/

definition:

a border between two countries, especially one with official points where people or vehicles cross

ex:

There were very few border controls on the southwestern frontier.

penetrate (v.) /ˈpenəˌtreɪt/

definition:

to get inside an object or body by getting through something

ex:

A piece of glass had penetrated the skin.

rot (v.) /rɒt/

definition:

to decay by a gradual natural process, or to make something decay in this way

ex:

All those sweets will rot your teeth.

meteor (n.) /ˈmitiə(r)/

definition:

a large piece of rock from space that passes into the Earth's atmosphere and appears as a bright light in the sky

ex:

It was made by a meteor that fell from space.

cylinder (n.) /ˈsɪlɪndə(r)/

definition:

an object shaped like a wide tube

ex:

The cylinder was lifted from the seabed in a sling.

neurologist (n.) [nju'rɒlәdʒist]

definition:

a person specializing in neurology; especially : a physician skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of disease of the nervous system

ex:

The neurologist is wrong about a neurological problem.

earbud (n.) \ˈirˌbəd\

definition:

a small earphone inserted into the ear

ex:

Insert earbud and rotate it up until it fits snugly.

histamine (n.) /ˈhɪstəmin/

definition:

a natural substance produced by the body when it is fighting an infection or a poison

ex:

Histamine was considered the primary mediator of inflammatory vascular responses.

phenomenon (n.) /fəˈnɒmɪnən/

definition:

1. 1.     an event or situation that can be seen to happen or exist
2. 2.     someone or something that is very impressive or surprising

ex:

1. 1.     Violence in society is not a new phenomenon.
2. 2.     Her new book is a publishing phenomenon.

lethal (adj.) /ˈliθl/

definition:

1. 1.     very dangerous and able to kill you
2. 2.     very successful or effective

ex:

His lethal backhand gave him a distinct advantage over his opponent.

fence (n.) /fens/

definition:

a flat upright structure made of wood or wire that surrounds an area of land

ex:

A robin was perching on the fence.

collar (n.) /ˈkɒlə(r)/

definition:

the part of a coat, shirt, or dress that goes around your neck

ex:

He had his collar turned up against the cold.

bystander (n.) /ˈbaɪˌstændə(r)/

definition:

someone who is in a particular place by chance when an accident or an unusual event happens but who is not directly connected with it

ex:

Three innocent bystanders were wounded in the explosion.

cynic (n.) /ˈsɪnɪk/

definition:

1. 1.     someone who believes that people care only about themselves and are not sincere or honest
2. 2.     someone who expects things not to be successful or useful

ex:

I have come to be very much of a cynic in these matters.

clamor (n.) /ˈklæmə(r)/

definition:

1. 1.     an urgent request for something by a lot of people
2. 2.     a very loud noise made by a lot of people or things

ex:

1. 1.     There is a growing clamor for a ban on genetically modified foods.
2. 2.     I couldn't hear anything above the clamor of the crowd.

drudgery (n.) /ˈdrʌdʒəri/

definition:

boring and unpleasant work that you have to do

ex:

He spent his life in pointlessly tiresome drudgery.

strain (n.) /streɪn/

definition:

to injure (a body part or muscle) by too much tension, use, or effort

ex:

Their marriage is under great strain at the moment.

cubicle (n.) /ˈkjubɪk(ə)l/

definition:

a small enclosed area in a room, separated from the rest of the room by thin walls or curtains

ex:

She went into the changing cubicle to try on the dress.

gobble (v.) /ˈɡɒb(ə)l/

definition:

to eat something quickly and often noisily

to make the sound made by a turkey

ex:

Don't gobble your food like that!

mulch (n.) /mʌltʃ/

definition:

decaying leaves or other plant material used for protecting the roots of plants and improving the soil

ex:

A loose mulch acts on the surface as an insulator.

cleave (v.) /kliv/

definition:

to cut or break something into two parts with a lot of force

ex:

They just cleave the stone along the cracks.

tortellini (n.) /ˏtɔtә`lini/

definition:

pasta in the form of little ring-shaped cases containing a filling (as of meat or cheese)

ex:

Remove the tortellini using a slotted spoon and drain onto kitchen paper.

parsley (n.) /ˈpɑ(r)sli/

definition:

a small plant with curly leaves, used for decorating food or for giving it a fresh flavor.

ex:

The turkey was served with a garnish of parsley.

kelp (n.) /kelp/

definition:

a large brown type of seaweed (=a plant that grows in the sea)

ex:

On the beach giant kelp had washed ashore.

marsh (n.) /mɑ(r)ʃ/

definition:

an area of soft wet land

ex:

The air, too, smelt more freshly than down beside the marsh.

perennial (adj.) /pəˈreniəl/

definition:

always existing, or never seeming to change

ex:

Money is a perennial source of disagreement among couples.

snag (n.) /snæɡ/

definition:

a problem or disadvantage that you have not planned for

ex:

I'm afraid there's one snag – I forgot to bring my money.

lettuce (n.) /ˈletɪs/

definition:

a vegetable with large thin green leaves that you eat raw in a salad

ex:

Serve the fish on a bed of shredded lettuce.

broccoli (n.) /ˈbrɒkəli/

definition:

a vegetable consisting of green stems with many small green or purple buds on the ends

ex:

Divide the broccoli into florets and wash them thoroughly.

wheelbarrow (n.) /ˈwilˌbærəʊ/

definition:

a large open container with one wheel that you use outside for moving loads. It has two long handles at the back that you use for pushing it.

ex:

The gardener trundled a wheelbarrow along the path.

hurricane (n.)  /ˈhʌrɪkən/

definition:

a violent storm with extremely strong winds and heavy rain

sitcom (n.) /ˈsɪtkɒm/

definition:

a television or radio series about a particular group of characters who deal with situation in a humorous way

fiction (n.)  /ˈfɪkʃ(ə)n/

definition:

books and stories about imaginary events and people. Books that give facts about real events, things, or people are called non-fiction

a report, story, or explanation that is not true

ex:

Hardy wrote poetry as well as fiction.

His alibi was pure fiction.

It is sometimes difficult to distinguish fact from fiction in the book.

sworn (adj.) /swɔː(r)n/

definition:

made or given by someone who promises that everything they are going to say is true

sworn enemies or friends have expressed strong dislike or friendship for each other

ex:

The committee has begun taking sworn statements from people involved in this matter.

testimony (n.) /ˈtestɪməni/

definition:

1. 1.      a formal statement about something that you saw, know, or experienced, usually given in a court of law
2. 2.      evidence that something exists or is true

ex:

1. 1.      I was asked to give testimony.
2. 2.      The latest trade figures are testimony to the failure of government policies.

idle (adj.) /ˈaɪd(ə)l/

definition:

machines or factories that are idle are not being used

ex:

The extra power stations are idle when demand is lower.

biased(adj.)/ˈbaɪəst/

definition:

preferring one person, thing, or idea to another in a way that is unfair

ex:

The salary structure was biased against women returning to work later in life.

alleged (adj.) /əˈledʒd/

definition:

claimed to be true, even though this has not been proved

ex:

The alleged victim's evidence could not be relied upon.

stab (v.) /stæb/

definition:

to kill or hurt someone by pushing a knife or other sharp object into their body

ex:

His brother was stabbed in the hand.

arrangement (n.) /əˈreɪndʒmənt/

definition:

a way of organizing things so that problems are solved or avoided

ex:

I'm staying with Sally until my heating gets fixed – it's just a temporary arrangement.

dilemma (n.) /dɪˈlemə/

definition:

a situation in which you have to make a difficult decision

ex:

I'm in a dilemma over whether to tell him or not.

summon (v.) /ˈsʌmən/

definition:

to officially order someone to come to a place, especially a court of law

ex:

He was urgently summoned to Washington for consultations.

seek (v.) /siːk/

definition:

to ask for something, or to try to get something

ex:

Seek medical advice if symptoms last more than a week.

butcher (n.) /ˈbʊtʃə(r)/

definition:

someone whose job is to sell meat and sometimes also to kill animals for meat.

ex:

The shop they work in is called a butcher's or a butcher's shop.

chain (n.) /tʃeɪn/

definition:

a series of metal rings connected to each other, used for fastening, pulling, or lifting things

ex:

1. 1.      There was a rusty iron chain hanging from the gate.
2. 2.      The crate was secured with a strong chain.

adultery (n.) /əˈdʌlt(ə)ri/

definition:

sex that takes place between a married person and someone who is not their husband or wife

ex:

They were divorced on the grounds of adultery.

anthology (n.) /ænˈθɒlədʒi/

definition:

a book containing poems, stories, or songs written by different people.

ex:

Someone who produces an anthology is called an anthologist.

trivial (adj.) /ˈtrɪviəl/

definition:

not very important, serious, or valuable

ex:

1. 1.      The injuries were relatively trivial.
2. 2.      Why do they get so upset over such a trivial matter?

divergence (n.) /daɪˈvɜː(r)dʒ(ə)ns/

definition:

a difference in the way that two or more things develop from the same thing

ex:

a wide divergence of opinion on this issue

hairy (adj.) /ˈheəri/

definition:

with a lot of hair

ex:

The leaves are soft and hairy.

tusk (n.) /tʌsk/

definition:

one of the two very long pointed teeth on an animal such as an elephant or a walrus

fringed (adj.) /frɪndʒd/

definition:

decorated with a fringe or fringes

plow = plough (v.) /plaʊ/

definition:

to turn over the soil before putting seeds into it using a plough

ex:

The fields were being ploughed for winter wheat.

enormous (adj.) /ɪˈnɔː(r)məs/

definition:

very large in size or quantity

ex:

1. 1.      The enormous birthday cake dwarfed everything else on the table.
2. 2.      The stress they're under is enormous.

grapple (v.) /ˈɡræp(ə)l/

definition:

to fight with someone

ex:

The row led to them grappling on the floor.

frankincense (n.) /ˈfræŋkɪnsens/

definition:

a substance that is burned to produce a nice smell in some religious ceremonies. Frankincense is a type of incense.

archway (n.) /ˈɑː(r)tʃweɪ/

definition:

a curved roof over an entrance or passage

march (v.) /mɑː(r)tʃ/

definition:

if soldiers march, they walk in a group with each person matching the speed and movements of the others

ex:

1. 1.      They made us march for hours.
2. 2.      He told the sergeant to march us for another five miles.

gilded (adj.) /ˈɡɪldɪd/

definition:

1. 1.      covered with a very thin layer of gold
2. 2.      shining like gold

axle (n.) /ˈæks(ə)l/

definition:

a metal bar that connects a pair of wheels on a car or other vehicle

slope (n.) /sləʊp/

definition:

a straight surface that has one end higher than the other

ex:

At the end of the garden there is a steep slope.

beam (n.) /biːm/

definition:

a long thick piece of wood, metal, or concrete that supports a roof

ex:

a cottage with low oak beams

dusky (adj.) /ˈdʌski/

definition:

not very bright

ex:

a dusky pink

pole (n.) /pəʊl/

definition:

a long thin stick, often used for holding or supporting something

ex:

There were rows of poles supporting young bean plants.

reckless (adj.) /ˈrekləs/

definition:

not thinking about the possible bad effects of your actions

ex:

She showed a reckless disregard for her own safety.

scorch (v.) /skɔː(r)tʃ/

definition:

if you scorch something, or if it scorches, it burns enough to change colour or be damaged on the surface

ex:

The forest fire was contained after scorching some ten thousand acres.

quoits (n.) /kɔɪts/

definition:

a game in which players throw metal or rubber rings called quoits over a short post fixed in the ground or on a wall

weed (v.) /wiːd/

definition:

to remove weeds from the ground

shepherd (n.) /ˈʃepə(r)d/

definition:

a man whose job is to look after sheep

nymph (n.) /nɪmf/

definition:

in ancient Greek and Roman stories, one of the female spirits who live in rivers, mountains, or forests

reed (n.) /riːd/

definition:

a tall thin plant that grows near water. Its stems can be used to make things.

ex:

A place where a lot of reeds grow is called a reed bed.

reveler (n.) /ˈrev(ə)lə(r)/

definition:

someone who enjoys themselves at a lively and noisy party or celebration by dancing, singing, and drinking alcohol

trumpet (n.) /ˈtrʌmpɪt/

definition:

a musical instrument that is a curved metal tube with a wide end. You play it by blowing into it as you press buttons on the top.

ex:

Someone who plays the trumpet is called a trumpeter or a trumpet player.

spike (n.) /spaɪk/

definition:

1. 1.      something sharp and pointed, especially a piece of metal or wood
2. 2.      one of the short pointed pieces of metal on the bottom of some sports shoes

cymbal (n.) /ˈsɪmb(ə)l/

definition:

a simple musical instrument consisting of a thin circular piece of metal that you play by hitting it with a stick or by hitting two of them against each other.

ex:

A cymbal is a percussion instrument.

aloft (adv.) /əˈlɒft/

definition:

high up in the air

creep (v.) /kriːp/

definition:

if someone creeps somewhere, they move there quietly and slowly

ex:

1. 1.      I crept downstairs when everyone was asleep.
2. 2.      She crept quietly into bed.

consecrate (v.) /ˈkɒnsɪˌkreɪt/

definition:

to perform a religious ceremony in order to make a place or a thing holy

solemn (adj.) /ˈsɒləm/

definition:

involving serious behavior or serious attitudes

ex:

His face looked strangely solemn.