2004 SB Scrpps PDF

2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently
aardwolf abdomen abiogenist

n n
/ SBrdTwUlf / / SabdETmEn / abjuration
Afrikaans L>F
a striped hyenalike mammal of region of an insect’s body. ablution
southern and eastern Africa that The three main body parts of an n
feeds chiefly on carrion and insects. insect are the head, the thorax, and / ESblVshEn /
Termites are the favorite food of the abdomen. L
the aardwolf. the washing of one’s body or part
abdominal of it as a religious rite.
abacus A common example of ablution in
n abecedarium Judaism is washing the hands
/ SabDkEs / before a meal that includes bread.
Gk > L abecedarius
a calculating instrument for n abolition
performing arithmetical processes / TCbG(T)sGSda(a)rGEs /
by sliding counters by hand on rods L abominable
or in grooves. a poem in which the lines or adj
The grocer used an abacus instead stanzas begin with the letters of the / ESbBm(E)nEbEl /
of a modern cash register. alphabet in regular order. L>F>E
Geoffrey Chaucer wrote a famous worthy of or causing loathing or
abalienation abecedarius. hatred.
Charlie’s abominable pretense of
abalone aberrant being attracted to Jane was the
n result of a dare by his friends.
/ TabESlPnG / aberration
Sp n aborigine
a gastropod mollusk that clings to / TabESrCshEn / n
rocks tenaciously with a broad L / TabESrijE(T)nG /
muscular foot. deviation from the natural state or L
At the beach, Marta made a from a normal type. [Note: Could be confused with
necklace from the shell of an Jane’s outburst at the meeting was aborigen.] one of the native people
abalone. a shocking behavior aberration, for especially as contrasted with an
her manner is usually so reserved. invading or colonizing people.
abandonment Cathy Freeman, an Australian
abeyance aborigine, carried the flame into
abattoir n the Olympic stadium.
n / ESbCEn(t)s /
/ SabDTtwBr / L > F + Ecf abracadabra
F [has homonym: obeyance] n
slaughterhouse. cessation or suspension (as of a / TabrEkESdabrE /
At the end of the day the battlefield customary practice). L
at Hastings looked like an abattoir. Use of the swimming pool was put confused or unintelligible language
in abeyance until a new lifeguard : nonsense.
abbot could be hired. Despite the abracadabra in the
poem “Jabberwocky,” its message
abbreviate abhor is rather clear.
abbreviation abhorrence abrasion

n
abdicate abidance / ESbrCzhEn /
v n L
/ SabdETkCt / / ESbIdFn(t)s / wearing, grinding, or rubbing away
L E by friction.
relinquish formally, renounce. compliance. Moving glaciers caused abrasion
The crown prince will abdicate his Abidance with the golden rule on Earth’s surface.
throne so that his brother may rule. helps one have a happy life.
abrasive
ability
Page 1 of 349
abrogated abstinence academic
adj
abruptly abstractive / TakESdemik /
adv Gk > L > F
/ ESbrEp(t)lG / abstruse relating to a school, especially an
L adj institution of higher education.
in a manner that produces the effect / EbzStrVs / Claudia postponed her academic
of a sudden ending. L pursuits after learning of her
George’s mom stopped abruptly at [has obsolete variant with similar father’s serious illness.
the door of his room when she saw pronunciation: obstruse] difficult
his pet python on the floor. to comprehend or understand. acarology
Mr. Thompson’s abstruse
abscess calculations covered the accede
blackboard.
abscissa accelerate
n absurdity v
/ abSsisE / / ikSselETrCt /
L abundance L
the horizontal coordinate of a point add to the speed of or quicken the
in a plane Cartesian coordinate abysmal motion of.
system obtained by measuring adj To qualify for the finals, the jogger
parallel to the x-axis. / ESbizmEl / had to accelerate his pace.
Bill was asked to mark the point on Gk > L > E
the graph at which the abscissa is 4 having the characteristics of an accelerator
and the ordinate is 7. abyss : bottomless.
Ahmet jumped his motorcycle over accentuator
abscond the abysmal gorge.
acceptance
abscondence abysmally
accessible
abseil acacia adj
n n / ikSsesEbEl /
/ SBpTzIl / / ESkCshE / L
G Gk > L capable of being reached or easily
descent in mountaineering by any plant of the genus of woody approached.
means of a rope looped over a plants of warm regions having Wilbur made sure his restaurant
projection above. pinnate leaves and white or yellow was accessible to those in
In her wilderness survival class, flower clusters. wheelchairs.
Elisa learned how to perform an Giraffes have specialized teeth that
abseil without losing control. help them comb leaves from the accession
spiny branches of the acacia. n
absence / ikSseshEn /
academia L>F
abstemious n the act of attaining or coming to
adj / TakESdGmyE / high office or a position of honor or
/ abzStGmGEs / Gk > L power.
L life and interests associated with a The best seller chronicled the
sparing in eating and drinking. school especially of higher accession of the new prince.
Evelyn is abstemious by nature and learning.
never orders dessert. Robert prefers academia to the accessorial
business world.
abstention accidental
n
/ EbzStenchEn /
L
withholding of a vote.
Helga resented her senator’s
abstention on the crime bill.
Page 2 of 349
accipiter accordionist acescent
n adj
/ akSsipEZE(r) / accreditation / ESsesFnt /
L L
any hawk of the genus Accipiter (as accrescent turning sour or tending to turn sour.
the Cooper’s hawk, sharp-shinned adj Natalie spit out the acescent milk.
hawk, goshawk). / ESkresFnt /
Calvin spotted an accipiter darting L acetate
among the trees. growing continuously; specifically
: growing larger after flowering. acetylene
acclimatization After its flower had fallen away, the n
n plant’s accrescent calyx became / ESseZFlDn /
/ ETklImEZDSzCshEn / noticeably larger. L + Gk + Gk
L > F + Ecff a colorless gaseous hydrocarbon
the process of adapting to a new accrual that is explosive when compressed
temperature, altitude, environment, but safe if diluted with nitrogen or
or situation. accrue acetone.
The wild fern’s acclimatization to The welder ran out of acetylene
Mrs. Bennett’s rock garden amazed accrued while cutting through the ship’s
her. v hull.
/ ESkrVd /
acclivity L>F>E achondrite
n came by way of increase or n
/ ESklivEZG / addition. / CSkBnTdrIt /
L Helen argued that many Gk
an ascending slope (as of a hill). advantages have accrued to society a stony meteorite devoid of the
The biker hoped that a downhill from the freedom of the press. granular structures known as
stretch would soon follow what chondrules.
seemed to be an endless acclivity. accumulate The claim that the achondrite
v originated from the moon was
accolade / ESkyVmyETlCt / based on compositional matches of
n L lunar rocks obtained by the Apollo
/ SakETlCd / heap up in a mass : pile up. missions.
L>F The weather forecaster said that as
a bestowal of praise. much as two feet of snow might achromatism
Martin received one accolade after accumulate overnight.
another at the awards banquet. acicular
accurate adj
accommodable adj / ESsikyElEr /
/ SakyErDt / L + Ecf
accommodate L like a needle in shape : slender and
v correct, exact, precise. pointed.
/ ESkBmETdCt / The detective prided himself on Under the microscope, the crystals
L making accurate reports of crime appear as single acicular
provide with lodgings. scenes. structures.
Leah begged the hotel clerk to
accommodate her for just one more accusatory acknowledge
night.
acerbity acknowledging
accomplice n
n / ESsErbEZG / acme
/ ESkBmplDs / L n
L>F>E acidity of temper or tone : / SakmG /
one that participates with another in astringency or sharpness of Gk
a crime either as principal or manner. the highest point or stage (as of
accessory. Rosemary remarked with acerbity growth or development).
The juvenile was convicted as an that her son’s chores hadn’t been Many of her fans think Barbra
accomplice in the robbery. done in days. Streisand is at the acme of the
music profession.
Page 3 of 349
acolyte acre acrostic
n n n
/ SakETlIt / / SCkE(r) / / ESkrOstik /
Gk > L > F > E E Gk
one who attends or assists : any of various units of land area. a composition usually in verse in
follower. Miriam had to cross a 10-acre field which one or more sets of letters
Not one acolyte remained after the to get to her favorite swimming when taken in order form a word, a
cult leader’s fall from grace. hole. connected group of words, or the
regular sequence of the letters of
acorn acrid the alphabet.
adj Mrs. Taylor was not at all pleased
acoustician / SakrDd / with the acrostic her students made
L using her name.
acoustics unpleasantly sharp or strong to the
n pl taste or to the smell. acrylic
/ ESkVstiks / The acrid sulfur fumes made
Gk Gustavo’s eyes water. actinic
the aggregate of qualities (as adj
absence of echo or reverberation) acrimonious / akStinik /
of an enclosure (as an auditorium) adj Gk > L + Ecf
or other area that affects / TakrESmPnGEs / having photochemical properties or
production, control, transmission, L>F effects.
reception, and perception of sound. caustic, biting, or rancorous, The stars emit actinic rays as well
As a result of the renovation, the especially in feeling, language, or as light and heat.
acoustics of the concert hall have manner : bitter.
improved dramatically. It was obvious that Marjorie’s actuary
comments were acrimonious and n
acquaintance complaining. / SakchETwerG /
n L
/ ESkwCntFn(t)s / acrobat one trained in mathematics and
F>E n statistics whose business it is to
familiarity, experience. / SakrETbat / calculate insurance and annuity
Ruth developed an acquaintance Gk > F premiums, reserves, and dividends.
with Tibetan musical tradition. one who performs gymnastic feats An actuary uses such factors as age
or exercises. and health status to determine a
acquiesce Paul is developing the skills of a person’s life insurance premiums.
first-rate acrobat.
acquiescence acuate
acronym adj
acquittal n / SakyETwCt /
n / SakrETnim / L
/ ESkwiZFl / Gk + Gk having a sharp point : shaped like a
L+L>F a word formed from the initial needle : sharpened.
[Note: The definition provided is letter or letters of each of the Cobb’s beagle was distinctive
not the one most commonly successive parts or major parts of a because of its acuate tail.
associated with this word.] release compound term.
or discharge from debt or other The word radar is an acronym of aculeate
liability. radio detection and ranging. adj
Mr. Churchill was deeply involved / ESkyVlGDt /
in the game and was too much acropolis L
indebted to it for his acquittal. marked by incisiveness : stinging,
pointed.
No actor was spared in the
reviewer’s aculeate criticisms.
Page 4 of 349
acumen adenoidal adjunct
n adj n
/ ESkyVmDn / / TadFnSOidFl / / SaTjEN(k)t /
L Gk L
acuteness of mind : keenness of typical or suggestive of one something joined or added to
perception, discernment, or affected with abnormally enlarged another thing but not essentially a
discrimination : shrewdness glands in the back of the throat. part of it.
especially in practical matters. The critics panned the tenor, whose Exercise is an adjunct to a long
Della’s business acumen helped voice was terribly adenoidal and and healthy life.
her amass a fortune of over $50 breathy.
million. adjuvant
adequate
acuminate admeasure
adj adequation
/ ESkyVmEnDt / adminicle
L adhere n
tapering to a slender point : / adSminDkEl /
pointed. adherence L
Steve found one of his parakeet’s support, auxiliary.
acuminate tail feathers on the floor. adherent Shelly enjoyed serving as an
n adminicle of the local Girl Scout
acupuncture / TadShirEnt / troop.
L
adactylous a believer in or advocate of a admiral
particular thing, idea, or religion. n
adage Julia has been an adherent of / Sadm(E)rEl /
Buddhism since 1985. Ar > L
adagio a naval officer of high rank.
n adhesional Petty Officer Pritchard saluted the
/ ESdB(T)jP / admiral and continued to her post.
(L + L > OProv) > It adiaphorism
[Note: The definition provided is admire
not the one most commonly adipose
associated with this word.] a series admonitory
of sustained and perfectly adjacency
controlled dance movements adolescence
displaying balance and grace. adjacent
The wicked fairy performed a adj Adonis
perfect adagio just before Sleeping / ESjCsFnt / n
Beauty appeared. L / ESdBnDs /
living nearby or sitting or standing Gk name
adamantine relatively near or close together. an exceptionally handsome young
adj Citizens of Centerville and its man.
/ TadESmanTtIn / adjacent communities banded Nearly all the eighth-grade girls
Gk > L > E together to form a volunteer fire think that Leonardo is an Adonis.
rigidly firm : unyielding. department.
Debra’s adamantine chain of logic adsmith
bedazzled her philosophy adjourn
professor. adumbrate
adjudicate v
addlepated / SadEmTbrCt /
L
give a sketchy representation of :
outline broadly, omitting details.
There was time to only adumbrate
the escape plan.
advantageous
Page 5 of 349
adverb Aeschylean affiliate
adj v
adversary / TeskESlGEn / / ESfilGTCt /
Gk name L
adverse of, relating to, or suggestive of the attach as a member or branch :
Greek tragic poet Aeschylus. bring or receive into close
advisory The Aeschylean chorus plays an connection.
n important role in the plot of the The university assists in trying to
/ EdSvIz(E)rG / tragedy. affiliate local high schools.
L>F
a report giving information (as one affability affiliation
issued by a weather bureau on the n n
progress of a hurricane). / TafESbilEZG / / ETfilGSCshEn /
The weather advisory warned small L L
craft that winds would be in excess sociability. the state or relation of being
of 34 knots today. Miss Smith was delighted with the attached as a member or branch.
affability with which Miss Professor Bruner retired after a
advocaat Woodhouse had treated her all the 30-year affiliation with Harvard
evening. University.
advocate
n affable affinity
/ SadvETkDt / n
L affectionate / ESfinEZG /
one that argues for, defends, adj L
maintains, or recommends a cause / ESfeksh(E)nDt / sympathy especially as marked by
or proposal. L community of interest.
Isabella was sure nobody ought to having warm regard : loving, fond. Marie felt an affinity with the new
be, or could be, a greater advocate Tipper is the most affectionate chess prodigy, remembering how
for matrimony than she. collie Susan had ever owned. she had followed Bobby Fischer’s
early career many years before.
aerial affianced
v affirmative
aerodynamic / ESfIEn(t)st /
adj L>F>E afflatus
/ Ta(E)rP(T)dISnamik / solemnly promised (oneself or n
Gk another) in marriage : betrothed. / ESflCZEs /
of or relating to the science that The ruler of Austria affianced his L
treats of the motion of air and other daughter to the king of France. a divine imparting of knowledge or
gaseous fluids. power : inspiration.
The aerodynamic design of race affidavit Most art students are familiar with
cars helps them achieve great n Michelangelo’s painting on the
speeds. / TafESdCvDt / ceiling of the Sistine Chapel
L depicting the afflatus from God to
aeronautics a sworn statement in writing made Adam.
especially under oath or before an
aerosol authorized officer. affluence
n The police asked Heather to
/ Sa(E)rETsOl / prepare an affidavit regarding aforementioned
Gk + L what she saw when she surprised a
a suspension of ultramicroscopic burglar in her house. afterwale
solid or liquid particles in air or
gas.
Volcanic eruptions propel
hydrogen sulfide into the
stratosphere, where it reacts with
oxygen to form an aerosol that can
persist for more than a year.
Page 6 of 349
agape aggravate agreeable
n v adj
/ BSgBTpC / / SagrDTvCt / / ESgrGEbEl /
Gk L L>F
spontaneous self-giving love make worse, more serious, or more pleasing to the mind or senses : to
expressed freely without severe. one’s liking : pleasant.
calculation of cost or gain to the Shane worried that a game of one- The famous ballplayer proved to be
giver or merit on the part of the on-one would aggravate his ankle the most likable and agreeable man
receiver. injury. that Billy had ever met.
The question “What’s in it for
me?” is unheard of in agape. aggregate agriology
n
agate / SagrDgDt / agronomy
adj L n
/ SagDt / a body of units or parts somewhat / ESgrBnEmG /
Gk > L > F loosely associated with one L + Gk
of or resembling a fine-grained another. the branch of agriculture that deals
chalcedony frequently mixed with The protesters straggled toward the with field crop production and soil
opal and having various colors muddy park in a dispirited management.
arranged in stripes or bands; aggregate as the organizers set up Vince earned a degree in agronomy
especially : of the color of agate. tents and microphones. at the state university’s school of
Rachel’s brown agate eyes are agriculture.
extremely unusual and beautiful. aghast
aikido
agelicism agiotage
ailanthus
agenda agitated n
adj / CSlan(t)thEs /
agglomerate / SajETtCZDd / Amboinese
n L a tree of a small genus of East
/ ESglBmErDt / troubled in mind : disturbed, Indian and Chinese trees with
L excited. greenish flowers.
[Note: Could be confused with The crowd became agitated when The ailanthus is fast growing and
agglomerant.] a confused or the candidate failed to appear. its shallow, wide-spreading root
jumbled mass, heap, or collection. system effectively anchors the soil.
Helen’s favorite jeans are agnostic
somewhere in the agglomerate of n aileron
clothing on her bedroom floor. / agSnBstik / n
Gk / SClETrBn /
agglomeration one who maintains a continuing L>F
doubt about the existence or a movable portion of an airplane
agglutinate knowability of a god or any wing or a movable airfoil external
ultimates. to the wing for imparting a rolling
aggrandizement Raymond and Olive have been motion and thus providing lateral
n happily married for ten years, even control.
/ ESgrandEzmEnt / though she is an agnostic and he An aileron is usually situated at the
L>F never misses Sunday morning trailing edge of an airplane's wing
the act, action, or result of making mass. near the wing tip.
great or greater (as in power, honor,
or wealth). agoraphobia airborne
Because she was a commoner, Ruth
was accused of marrying the prince agrarian
for her own personal
aggrandizement.
Page 7 of 349
airedale albatross alcove
n n n
/ Sa(a)(E)rTdCl / / SalbETtrOs / / SalTkPv /
E geog name Ar? > Pg or Sp Ar > Sp > F
a large terrier with a wiry black and any of a number of large web- a recessed part (as a breakfast
tan coat. footed seabirds that are capable of nook) of a room.
Shantha’s airedale is registered long-continued flight. Silvio found an alcove in the
with the American Kennel Club. The wingspan of an albatross can library that was a perfect place for
exceed ten feet. taking a nap.
akimbo
adj albedo aleatoric
/ ESkim(T)bP / n adj
E / alSbG(T)dP / / TClGEStOrik /
having the hands on the hips with L L
the elbows projecting outward. reflective power. characterized by chance or random
With her arms akimbo, Marion Arno researched the effects of soil elements.
waited for Tim to explain himself. albedo on vegetation. By digitizing thunder and traffic
noises, Georgia was able to
akropodion albedometer compose aleatoric music.
n n
/ TakrESpPdGEn / / TalbESdBmEZE(r) / aleatory
Gk L + Gk
the most prominent point on the a device for measuring the alegar
back of the heel. reflection of light (as by snow). n
After the hike, Eli had a nasty David used an albedometer to / SaligE(r) /
blister on his left akropodion. measure the reflection of light by E+L>F
the clouds. sour ale or vinegar made of ale.
aktograph While studying in England as an
albeit exchange student, Judith developed
alabaster conj a taste for fried potatoes with salt
adj / OlSbGDt / and alegar.
/ SalETbastE(r) / E
Gk > L > F > E although. alfalfa
of or resembling alabaster; Sonia had a simple, albeit n
specifically : having a nearly white expensive, wedding. / alSfalfE /
color and a light-diffusing surface. Ar > Sp
Patsy’s alabaster skin gives her a albino an important European leguminous
spectral appearance. forage plant.
alchemy The farmer alternated his crops,
alacrity n growing alfalfa one season and
n / SalkEmG / corn the next.
/ ESlakrEZG / Gk > Ar > L > F
L the medieval chemical science and alfresco
cheerful readiness : eagerness. speculative philosophy whose aims adj
Dr. Cameron’s students always were the transmutation of base / alSfre(T)skP /
enter his class with alacrity and metals into gold. It
depart with reluctance. The wizard’s apprentice was open-air.
determined to learn enough Everyone looks forward to the
alar alchemy to turn lead into gold. alfresco party that the Smiths hold
every Derby Day.
alary alcohol
adj algorithm
/ SalErG / alcoholature
L
wing-shaped or fan-shaped. alcoholism
There was an alary membrane on
each side of the seed.
Page 8 of 349
alibi allegiance alliance
n n n
/ SalETbI / / ESlGjEn(t)s / / ESlIEn(t)s /
L F>E L>F>E
the plea of having been elsewhere the duty of fidelity owed by a union or connection especially
at the time an act was committed. subject or citizen to his sovereign between families, states, parties, or
To support his alibi, Jake showed or government. individuals.
his lawyer a video made during his The new citizens pledged The alliance between the two
Hawaii trip. allegiance to their adopted country. nations has been strong for nearly
50 years.
alien allegory
adj n alligator
/ SClGEn / / SalDTgPrG / n
L Gk / SalDTgCZE(r) /
different in nature or character : far a story in which people, things, and L > Sp
removed. happenings have a hidden or a reptile having a head not tapering
Nguyen’s response to his mother’s symbolic meaning. to the snout and being in general
question had results entirely alien Gail disliked the moralistic tone of much more sluggish than the
from what he intended. the allegory. typical crocodiles.
Jason’s favorite sight at the fair
alienation allegro was a woman wrestling an
n alligator.
aliferous / ESle(T)grP /
It > L allision
alimentary ballet steps performed in a lively,
adj fast tempo. alliteration
/ TalESmentErG / After the allegro, Madame n
L Delacroix instructed the dancers to / ETliZESrCshEn /
[Note: Could be confused with cool down slowly. L + Ecf
elementary.] of, concerned with, or the repetition usually initially of a
relating to nourishment or to the allemande sound that is usually a consonant in
function of nutrition. v two or more neighboring words or
Pasta is sometimes called an / SalETmand / syllables (as in “daring deed”).
“alimentary paste.” Gmc > L > F Poor writers rely on alliteration
aliquot perform a step with arms when lacking ideas.
interlaced.
alkali The caller told the square dancers allocate
to allemande left and swing their v
allargando partners. / SalETkCt /
adv L
/ TBTlBrSgBn(T)dP / allergy set apart and earmark or designate.
L n Leon hoped the committee would
in a manner becoming gradually / SalE(r)jG / allocate funds for the new
broader with the same or greater Gk > G playground.
volume. exaggerated or pathological
David’s piano teacher indicated reaction (as by sneezing, itching, or allocation
that the piece was to be played skin rashes) to substances, n
allargando. situations, or physical states that / alESkCshEn /
are without comparable effect on L
allayment the average individual. the act of apportioning.
Because of her allergy, Mrs. Griffin The allocation of powers in the
allege discouraged her students from United States Constitution is
v bringing in any furry pets for show- clearly defined.
/ ESlej / and-tell.
L alluded
assert, affirm, state without proof
or before proving.
Residents of the area allege that the
lake water has curative properties.
Page 9 of 349
alluviation alopecia altiplano
n n n
/ ETlVvGSCshEn / / TalESpGsh(G)E / / TaltDSplB(T)nP /
L Gk L > Sp
the process that results in deposits loss of hair, wool, or feathers : a high plateau or plain : tableland.
of clay, silt, sand, or gravel at baldness. A cold northerly wind over the
places in rivers or estuaries where Prescription drugs such as altiplano heralded the arrival of
stream velocity is decreased. minoxidil have had limited success winter.
The effects of alluviation can be in treating alopecia.
seen along the banks of a large altitude
river. alpaca n
n / SaltETtVd /
almond / alSpakE / L>E
n Aymara > Sp position at a height.
/ SB(l)mEnd / an animal like a llama with fine When the plane suddenly lost
Gk > L > F > E long woolly hair and domesticated altitude, the pilot told the
the fruit of a small tree; especially : in Peru and adjacent countries. passengers to fasten their seat
the nutlike stone or kernel of this The petting zoo featured four goats, belts.
tree. an alpaca, a pony, and three lambs.
The almond is a nut that is easy to altogether
crack. alpenglow adv
n / TOltESgeLE(r) /
almoner / SalpEnTglP / E
n G+E wholly, completely, thoroughly.
/ SalmEnE(r) / a reddish glow or sometimes the The suffragettes argued that it was
L>F>E entire series of light phenomena altogether fit and proper that
one who distributes charitable gifts, seen near sunset or sunrise on the women have the right to vote.
often for another. summits of mountains.
In his role as the king’s almoner, Jocelyn and Ruth enjoyed the rich altruism
Jared tossed a few pennies to the alpenglow from the balcony of their
audience. cabin. altruistically
alnico alphabet alveolate

n adj
/ SalnDTkP / altazimuth / alSvGElDt /
L + G > Sw + G n L + Ecf
a powerful permanent-magnet alloy / alStazEmEth / pitted like a honeycomb.
containing iron, nickel, aluminum, L + Ar > L The porous sandstone had an
and one or more of the elements an instrument consisting of a alveolate surface.
cobalt, copper, and titanium. telescope mounted so that it can
Mr. Arkin’s factory makes swing horizontally and vertically. amadelphous
industrial magnets from alnico. Josh saw an antique altazimuth in
the maritime museum. amalgam
aloof n
adj altercation / ESmalgEm /
/ ESlVf / n Ar? > L > F
E + D? > F > E / TOltE(r)SkCshEn / an alloy of mercury with another
removed or distant either physically L metal.
or spiritually and usually by choice dispute carried on with feeling (as Because mercury will form an
and with indifference to the anger). amalgam with most other metals, it
feelings, opinions, or interests of Police broke up a minor altercation can be used to extract them from
others. between two street vendors. ore.
Greg’s aloof personality
discouraged his gregarious
colleagues.
Page 10 of 349
amanuensis ambivalent amelioration
n adj n
/ ETmanyESwen(t)sDs / / amSbivElEnt / / ETmGlyESrCshEn /
L L L
one who is employed to write from characterized by, suggestive of, the act of making better or the state
dictation or to copy what another motivated by, or exhibiting of being made better :
has written. contradictory emotional or improvement.
During the six weeks that psychological attitude. The committee submitted its
Chrissie’s arm was in a cast, she Because Tad has a grueling job recommendations for the
completed her homework with her lined up, he is ambivalent about the amelioration of the undesirable
mother as her amanuensis. upcoming summer vacation. conditions at the overcrowded
school.
amaryllis amblyopia
n n amenable
/ TamESrilDs / / TamblGSPpGE / adj
L name Gk / ESmGnEbEl /
any of several African bulbous dimness of sight without apparent L>F
herbs grown for their large showy change in the eye structures readily brought to yield or submit :
flowers. associated especially with the toxic responsive, tractable.
Deborah’s amaryllis bloomed just effects of certain drugs or Horst is amenable to any ideas for
in time for the December holidays. chemicals or with dietary the prom’s theme.
deficiencies.
amateur The doctor told Henry to quit amendment
smoking if he wanted his amblyopia n
amber to improve. / ESmen(d)mEnt /
n L + Ecf
/ SambE(r) / ambrosia the process of changing or
Ar > L > F n modifying in any way for the better
a very hard yellowish to brownish / amSbrPzh(G)E / (as a motion, bill, act, or
translucent fossil resin that takes a Gk > F constitution).
fine polish. a dessert of a fruit or of mixed A well-drafted constitution will
Sarah was delighted when her fruits topped with shredded provide for its own amendment.
mother gave her some earrings coconut.
made of amber. Cyrus’s favorite dessert is his amertoy
grandmother’s ambrosia. n
ambidextrous / SamE(r)TtOi /
ambulation E geog name + E
ambiguity a small terrierlike dog having a
n ambuscade short sleek satiny coat and
/ TambDSgyVEZG / weighing between six and ten
L ambush pounds.
the condition of admitting of two or Ricky was forever chasing Trixie,
more meanings, of being ameliorate the family amertoy, out of the
understood in more than one way, v flower beds.
or of referring to two or more / ESmGlyETrCt /
things at the same time. L amethyst
The ambiguity of Mr. Mitchell’s make better : improve.
essay questions encouraged Activists lobbied to ameliorate amiable
creative interpretations. prison conditions.
Page 11 of 349
amicable amnesia amulet
adj n n
/ SamDkEbEl / / amSnGzhE / / SamyElDt /
L Gk L
characterized by or as if by loss of memory : forgetfulness. an inscribed charm believed to
friendship and goodwill. Alice suffered from amnesia as the protect or aid the wearer.
Carla and Jeanine have had an result of a head injury. The archaeologist discovered an
amicable relationship since they amulet in the tomb of an ancient
settled their initial dispute. amole Egyptian ruler.
n
amice / ESmPlG / amuse
n Nahuatl > Sp v
/ SamDs / any of a number of plants utilized / ESmyVz /
L as a source of soap. L>F
[has near homonyms: amas, amiss] The discovery of an amole created entertain or occupy in a pleasant
a liturgical vestment consisting of much excitement among the manner.
an oblong piece of cloth usually of castaways. The children seemed to tumble
white linen, worn about the neck about and amuse themselves like
and shoulders and partly under the amortization good-natured collie puppies.
alb.
Father Patrick put on a fresh white amphibian amygdaline
amice before serving mass. n adj
/ amSfibGEn / / ESmigdETlIn /
amiss Gk Gk
[has homonym: amphibion] an of or relating to a tonsil.
amity animal or plant accustomed or Because of a persistent amygdaline
n adapted to life both on land and in infection, Lana checked into the
/ SamEZG / the water. hospital to have her tonsils
L The frog is perhaps the best-known removed.
friendship and goodwill, especially amphibian.
as characterized by mutual anabasis
acceptance and tolerance of amphibious n
potentially antagonistic standpoints / ESnabEsDs /
or aims. amphora Gk
The natural amity between Avital n a going or marching up; especially :
and her sister has helped them / SamfErE / a military advance.
maintain strong ties through many Gk > L Hannibal is famous for his
family disagreements. a Greek unit of capacity equal to remarkable anabasis across the
10.3 gallons or 39 liters. Alps into Italy.
ammeter The group ordered 1 amphora of
n punch for the Antiquity Party. anabibazon
/ Sa(m)TmeZE(r) / n
F + Gk ampicillin / TanESbibETzBn /
[has near homonym: amateur] an n Gk
instrument for measuring electric / TampESsilDn / the ascending node of the Moon’s
current. ISV orbit with the ecliptic.
Perry and Ayrton’s ammeter helped a penicillin that is effective against Lars waited for the Moon to reach
measure the efficiency of the gram-negative and gram-positive its anabibazon so he could confirm
battery. bacteria and is used to treat various his findings.
infections of the urinary,
ammonia respiratory, and intestinal tracts.
Pneumonia has been successfully
treated with ampicillin.
Page 12 of 349
anabolic analects anaphora
adj n
/ TanESbBlik / analemma / ESnaf(E)rE /
Gk + Gk n Gk
relating to, characterized by, or / TanESlemE / repetition of a word or words at the
promoting constructive Gk beginning of two or more
metabolism. a graduated scale shaped like a successive clauses or verses.
The weightlifter was disqualified figure 8 and showing the Sun’s “The voice of the Lord” occurred
after it was discovered he had used declination for each day of the year three times in anaphora in the
anabolic steroids. usually constituting part of a psalm Julie read.
sundial and often shown on globes.
anachronism Katrina consulted the sundial’s anarchy
analemma to calculate the correct n
anachronous time. / SanE(r)kG /
Gk > L
anaconda analgesic a state of lawlessness or political
n disorder due to the absence of
/ TanESkBndE / analogy governmental authority.
Singhalese n After the revelation of election
a large arboreal snake of the boa / ESnalEjG / fraud, some observers feared that
family of tropical South America. Gk the tiny republic would succumb to
The anaconda has been known to a figure of speech involving an anarchy.
forage in trees for birds. extended or elaborate comparison
between two things or situations. anastomosis
anaglyph Hugo used an analogy to illustrate n
n his point, but no one understood / ETnastESmPsDs /
/ SanETglif / the analogy either. Gk
Gk a joining of the parts of a branched
a stereoscopic still or moving analysand system.
picture producing a three- n Hal pointed out the anastomosis in
dimensional effect when viewed / ESnalETsand / the veined mulberry leaf.
through colored filters. Gk + L > Ecf
Troy begged his parents to take him one that is analyzed; specifically : anastrophe
to the newest anaglyph at the IMAX one who is undergoing n
theater. psychoanalysis. / ESnastrE(T)fG /
The psychotherapist encouraged Gk
anagnorisis the analysand to unburden herself inversion of the usual syntactical
n of her anxieties. order of words for rhetorical effect.
/ TaTnagSnPrEsDs / In the poem “Jabberwocky,” the
Gk ananym line “So rested he by the TumTum
an incident or solution of plot in n tree” is an example of anastrophe.
tragedy in which the main character / SanETnim /
recognizes his or her own or some Gk anathema
other character’s true identity or [has homonym: anonym] a n
discovers the true nature of his or fictitious name consisting of the / ESnathEmE /
her own situation. real name written backwards. Gk
The moment of anagnorisis occurs Pat often uses the ananym Tap one that is cursed by ecclesiastical
when the boy finds out he is when writing secret messages to authority.
actually the king’s son. her friends. The Sixth Ecumenical Council
pronounced Pope Honorius
anagogic anathema in A.D. 681.
adj
/ TanESgBjik / anaudia
Gk > L n
having a spiritual meaning or a / aSnOdGE /
sense referring to the heavenly life. Gk
Terrance recited anagogic poems loss of voice : inability to
by a Greek mystic. articulate.
Page 13 of 349
A blow to the throat can cause
temporary anaudia. anemone annihilate
n v
anautogenous / ESnemEnG / / ESnIETlCt /
Heb name > Gk L
ancestor a plant or flower of a widely destroy a considerable part of.
distributed genus of plants with Armyworms can annihilate a
anchovy showy flowers that lack petals but beautiful lawn in just a few days.
n have showy sepals.
/ SanTchPvG / Xantha picked an anemone from anniversary
Gk > L? > It > Sp the flower bed. n
any of a number of small / TanESvErs(E)rG /
herringlike fishes; especially : a aneroid L
common Mediterranean form adj the annual recurrence of a date
esteemed for its rich and peculiar / SanETrOid / marking an event or occurrence of
flavor. Gk > F notable importance.
Joshua informed his mother that containing no liquid or functioning Next Thursday will be the 23rd
one anchovy had rendered the without the use of liquid. anniversary of our family grocery
entire pizza inedible. Tasha carefully monitored the store’s first day of operation.
aneroid manometer throughout the
ancillary course of the experiment. annotation
adj
/ SansETlerG / anglaise annoyance
L adj n
serving to aid or assist : auxiliary : / BNSglCz / / ESnOiEn(t)s /
supplementary. Gmc > F F>E
Electronic media usually include boiled and served without sauce. a source of vexation or irritation :
radio, film, and television, as well Carrots anglaise are not very tasty. bothersome disturbance.
as the ancillary industries of audio Vera enjoyed raking leaves on the
and video recording. anguish warm autumn day, but the loud
music from the neighbor’s yard
anecdote anhydride was an annoyance.
n
/ SanikTdPt / anise annual
F&Gk n
a usually short narrative of an / SanDs / annuity
interesting, amusing, or curious Gk n
incident. an herb cultivated for its aromatic / ESn(y)VEZG /
The speaker’s presentation ended seeds. L
with a touching anecdote. The flavor of anise is similar to that an amount payable yearly or at
of licorice. other regular intervals (as
anemochore quarterly) for a certain or uncertain
n anisette period.
/ ESnemETkP(E)r / Carl’s grandparents set up a trust
Gk > F + Gk ankh fund that will provide him with an
a plant that has seeds or spores n annuity for the next 20 years.
adapted to distribution by wind. / SaNk /
The dandelion is a familiar Egypt annul
anemochore. a cross having a loop instead of an v
upper vertical arm used especially / ESnEl /
anemometer in ancient Egypt. L>F>E
n Roger’s first discovery as an cause to cease to exist : reduce to
/ TanESmBmEZE(r) / Egyptian archeologist was a gold nothing.
Gk > F + Gk > Ecf ankh. The legislator’s motion to annul the
an instrument for measuring and out-of-date law met with the
indicating the force or speed of the anklet approval of his colleagues.
wind.
The anemometer spun furiously as anneal
the hurricane approached.
Page 14 of 349
anodyne anschluss anterior
adj n adj
/ SanETdIn / / SBnTshlUs / / anStirGE(r) /
Gk G L
serving to assuage pain : soothing. union; especially : political or relating to or situated near or
Before aspirin was developed, economic union of one government toward the head or front.
certain spirits and herbs were or territory with another. The portion of the flower which
valued for their anodyne Hitler’s annexation of Austria to faces the subtending bract is the
properties. Germany in the 1930s is what is anterior.
generally meant by “the
anomalous anschluss.” anteroom
anserous
anomaly anthography
n Antarctic n
/ ESnBmElG / adj / anSthBgrEfG /
Gk > L / antSBrktik / Gk + Gk + Ecf
the angular distance of a planet Gk the description of flowers.
from its perihelion as seen from the relating to the South Pole or the A botanist, Wilbur excelled in
Sun. region near it. anthography.
The anomaly in a planet’s orbit is Samuel’s stamp collection included
caused by the gravitational a complete collection of the stamps anthology
influence of other planets. of the French Antarctic Territory. n
/ anSthBlEjG /
anon antecedent Gk
adv n a usually representative collection
/ ESnBn / / TantESsGdFnt / of selected literary pieces or
E L passages.
in a little while : soon, presently. a substantive word, phrase, or John hopes to find “The Raven” in
Anon he arrived at his destination. clause referred to by a pronoun, his mom’s anthology of American
typically by a following pronoun. literature.
anonymous In the sentence “I saw John and
adj spoke to him,” John is the anthroponymy
/ ESnBnEmEs / antecedent of him.
Gk > L anticyclone
of unknown or unnamed source or antecessor n
origin (as authorship, donorship, n / San(T)tGTsITklPn /
workmanship). / SantETsesE(r) / Gk + Gk
An anonymous 18th-century L>E a system of winds that rotates about
painting recently sold for two one that goes before. a center of high atmospheric
million dollars. Phoebe’s antecessor in the pressure.
presidency served six terms. The warm, dry winds blowing into
anorthopia southern California are from an
n antediluvian anticyclone over the deserts of
/ Ta(T)nOrSthPpGE / Nevada.
Gk antelope
distorted vision in which straight n antifoulant
lines appear bent. / SantFlTPp / n
When Liz put on Jan’s glasses, she Gk > L > F > E / Tan(T)tISfaUlEnt /
was overcome with anorthopia. any of various ruminant mammals L+E
of Africa and southwest Asia that a substance (as paint for use on the
anosmic differ from the true oxen especially bottom of a boat) designed to
adj in lighter racier build and horns prevent, reduce, or eliminate an
/ ESnBzmik / directed upward and backward. accumulation of deposits.
Gk > L The bounding antelope managed to Antifoulant was applied to the
of or characterized by loss or outdistance the pursuing lion. ship’s bottom in dry dock.
impairment of the sense of smell.
Anesthesia can leave a patient antenna antilogy
temporarily anosmic.
Page 15 of 349
antimacassar antithesis apathy
n n n
/ antGmESkasE(r) / / anStithEsDs / / SapEthG /
Gk + Celebes island geog name Gk Gk
a cover to protect the back or arms the rhetorical opposing or absence or lack of interest or
of furniture from Macassar oil or contrasting of ideas by means of concern : listlessness, indifference.
other hair preparations. grammatically parallel The active interest women are
Fran found the missing arrangements of words, clauses, or taking in today’s issues strongly
antimacassar under one of the sofa sentences. contrasts with the apathy many
cushions. A Tale of Two Cities opens with the women had a century ago.
famous antithesis: “It was the best
antimony of times, it was the worst of times.” aperitif
n antonomasia
/ SantETmPnG / n aperture
Ar? > L > E / (T)anTtBnESmCzh(G)E / n
a metalloid element that is Gk / SapE(r)TchU(E)r /
commonly metallic silvery white, the making of a common noun or L
crystalline, and brittle and is used verb from a proper name. an opening that restricts a beam of
especially as a constituent of alloys. The formation of the verb radiation or a stream of particles;
Pewter is an alloy of antimony and pasteurize from the name Pasteur specifically : the opening in a
tin. is an example of antonomasia. photographic lens that admits the
light passing through.
antipasto antonym A photographer typically has to
n adjust the shutter speed and set the
/ TantGSpastP / anxiety aperture.
L > It
any of various savory foods usually apartheid apex
served as appetizers : hors n n
d’oeuvre. / ESpBrTtCt / / SCTpeks /
Herbert ordered antipasto for the D > Afrikaans L
table. a policy of segregation and political [Note: The definition provided is
and economic discrimination not the one most commonly
antipodal against certain population groups. associated with this word.] the
adj The end of apartheid in South point of the heavens toward which
/ anStipEdFl / Africa was one of the great world a celestial body is moving at a
Gk events of the decade. given time.
situated at the opposite sides of the Helga tracked the planet’s
earth. apastron movement towards the apex.
Regina imagined that she could n
reach an antipodal town / aSpastrEn / aphasia
somewhere in China if she Gk n
continued digging in her garden. the point in the orbit of one star of / ESfCzh(G)E /
a binary where it is farthest from Gk
antiquarian the other. [has near homonym: aphagia] the
adj In binary star systems the motion in loss or impairment of the power to
/ TantDSkwerGEn / the orbits is not uniform but is least use words as symbols of ideas that
L rapid near apastron. results from a brain lesion.
dealing in old and rare books or in As a speech therapist, Tonya takes
secondhand books. apathetic a particular interest in patients
Pamela went to an antiquarian struggling with aphasia.
bookseller to have her first edition
of Oliver Twist appraised. aphelion
n
antique / aSfGlyEn /
Gk
antiquity the point of a planet’s or comet’s
orbit most distant from the Sun.
antiseptic Earth generally reaches aphelion
around July 4.
Page 16 of 349
aphid apogee aporia
n n n
/ SCfDd / / SapE(T)jG / / ESpPrGE /
Gk > L Gk Gk
any of numerous small sluggish the point in the orbit of a satellite of a passage in speech or writing
insects that suck the juices from Earth (as the Moon or an artificial incorporating or presenting a
plants, causing damage to the body) at the greatest distance from difficulty or doubt.
plants. the center of Earth. The Bible verse “Then the steward
An aphid can cause wilting, The transmission delay was longest said within himself, ‘What shall I
distorted growth, or gall formation when the spacecraft reached do?’” is an aporia.
in plants. apogee.
aposiopesis
aphorism apolaustic n
n adj / TapETsIESpGsDs /
/ SafETrizEm / / TapESlOstik / Gk
Gk > L > F Gk the leaving of a thought explicitly
a terse and often ingenious devoted to enjoyment. incomplete in writing or speaking
formulation of a truth or sentiment The students spent the vacation in often by a sudden breaking off and
usually in a single sentence. apolaustic pursuits. shifting of grammatical
Clark lives his life by the aphorism construction.
“Clothes make the man.” apologue Gail answered with an aposiopesis
apiarian n when she replied, “His problem
/ SapETlOg / is—how shall I say?”
apiary Gk apostle
an allegorical narrative (as a beast n
apiculus fable) usually intended to convey a / ESpBsEl /
moral. Gk > L > E
aplomb Most schoolchildren are familiar one who is sent forth : messenger.
n with the apologue of the tortoise Many voters regard Ralph Nader
/ ESplBm / and the hare. as the apostle of protected
L>F environments.
complete confidence or assurance apology
in oneself : poise. n apostrophe
A seasoned public relations officer, / ESpBlEjG /
Karen handles difficult situations Gk > L > F apothecary
with aplomb. an admission to another of a wrong n
or discourtesy done him or her / ESpBthETkerG /
apocalypse accompanied by an expression of Gk > L > E
regret. one who prepares and sells drugs or
apocope The teacher received an apology compounds for medicinal purposes
n from the tardy student. : pharmacist.
/ ESpBkETpG / The visits of Mr. Perry, the
Gk apoplexy apothecary, were one of the few
the loss of one or more sounds or n comforts of Mr. Woodhouse’s life.
letters from the end of a word. / SapETpleksG /
The song title “Singin’ in the Rain” Gk appalling
exemplifies apocope. a sudden loss of consciousness adj
followed by paralysis caused by / ESpOliN /
apocryphal hemorrhage within the brain— L>F>E
adj called also “stroke.” inspiring dismay : shocking.
/ ESpBkrEfEl / When Ray regained consciousness, There was something about the
Gk his doctor told him he was night that was mysterious and
of doubtful authenticity : fictitious, recovering from severe apoplexy. appalling.
spurious, untrustworthy.
The historian thought the story
about the cemetery apocryphal.
Page 17 of 349
Appaloosa appendages appropriate
n n pl adj
/ TapESlVsE / / ESpendijEz / / ESprPprGDt /
American Indian L L
one of a breed of rugged saddle things accompanying or appended specially suitable : fit, proper.
horses distinguished by a mottled to another thing and usually Calvin had orange hair and the
skin and a patch of white hair over subordinate or not essential to it. appropriate freckles to go with it.
the rump and loins that is blotched The Abbey-Mill Farm, with all its
or dotted with darker color. appendages of prosperity and appurtenance
Sherry begged her father to buy her beauty, was a favorable spot for a
an Appaloosa for her birthday, but walk. appurtenant
to no avail. adj
appendant / ESpErt(F)nEnt /
apparatchik F
n appendicitis annexed or belonging legally to
/ TBpESrBchik / n some more important thing.
Russ / ETpendESsIZDs / The property insurance covers any
a Communist secret agent. L + Ecf additions to the building and to
Oren and Elaine went to see an old an inflammation of the appendix private structures appurtenant to
movie in which an apparatchik characterized usually by abdominal the building.
tries to blow up the Empire State pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Building. The doctor diagnosed Sharon’s apricot
illness as appendicitis.
apparatus apropos
n appetite adj
/ TapESraZEs / n / TaprESpP /
L / SapETtIt / F
any compound instrument or L>F>E pertinent, relevant.
appliance designed for a specific the immediate desire to eat when Rachel wondered if Herman had
mechanical or chemical action or food is present. understood her question, for his
operation. George went back to his meal with answer was not very apropos.
The trainer went into much detail a good appetite.
about which apparatus is better for apsidal
a cardiovascular workout. apprentice adj
n / SapsEdFl /
apparel / ESprentDs / Gk > L
L>F>E of or relating to the point of a
apparition one who learns a trade, art, or craft celestial body’s orbit at which it is
n by practical experience under farthest from the center of
/ TapESrishEn / skilled workers. attraction.
L>E Jake hopes to become an Laura researched apsidal ocean
ghost, phantom, specter. apprentice in the stained-glass tidal levels.
The apparition of a figure on studio.
horseback, without a head, haunts aquatic
this enchanted region. approbation adj
n / ESkwBZik /
appealed / TaprESbCshEn / L
L living wholly or chiefly in or on
appease an act of approving formally or water.
authoritatively : sanction. Porpoises and seals are aquatic
appellation The mayor’s actions have the mammals.
approbation of none of the other
appellative members of the city council.
Page 18 of 349
aqueduct arboret archipelago
n n n
/ SakwETdEkt / / TBrbESret / / TBrkESpelETgP /
L L + Ecf Gk > It
an artificial channel for conveying a small tree or shrub. a group or cluster of islands.
water. Gwen trekked purposefully through The country of Indonesia is an
The ancient Romans used the the forest, dodging an occasional enormous archipelago.
aqueduct to provide water to the arboret but generally heading in a
city’s residents. straight line. architecture
n
aquiline arbuscle / SBrkETtekchEr /
adj n Gk > L
/ SakwETlIn / / SBrTbEsEl / the art or science of building;
L L specifically : the art or practice of
curving or hooked like an eagle’s a dwarf tree or treelike shrub. designing and building structures in
beak. The gardener recommended that accordance with principles
The senator was easily Micah purchase an arbuscle to determined by aesthetic and
recognizable by his aquiline nose. plant next to the house. practical or material considerations.
The building that housed the
arabesque arcanum department of architecture was, to
n n many students, the most hideous-
/ TarESbesk / / BrSkCnEm / looking edifice on campus.
Ar > It > F L
a posture (as in ballet dancing) in a secret or mysterious knowledge archivalia
ballet in which the body is bent or information known only to the n pl
forward from the hip on one leg initiate. / TBrkDSvClGE /
with one arm extended forward and Ralph developed a secret Gk > L
the other arm and leg backward in a handshake as an arcanum for his material preserved in or suitable for
line parallel to the floor. club. preservation in rooms for the
The painting depicts a ballerina in exhibition of a collection.
a flawless arabesque. archaic Included in the library’s archivalia
is a copy of the first edition of The
arability archangel Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
n n
/ TarESbilEZG / / SBrkCnjEl / arcing
L + Ecf Gk + Gk v
the state of being fit for tillage and a being in the heavenly hierarchy / SBrkiN /
crop production. ranking above an angel. L
Before Caleb bought Jed’s Joan of Arc had visions of the following or describing a curving
property, he had the land checked archangel Michael and saints course.
for arability. Catherine and Margaret telling her Waterfalls arcing outward into
to raise an army. white plumes plummet down and
arachnid flow into Cayuga Lake.
archelogy
arbiter arctic
archery
arboreal n ardency
adj / SBrch(E)rG /
/ BrSbPrGEl / F>E ardent
L the art, practice, or skill of shooting adj
inhabiting or frequenting trees. with bow and arrow. / SBrdFnt /
The arboreal fauna of Madagascar Joe chose archery as one of his L
are endangered by logging. physical education electives. extremely loyal : devoted, faithful.
Bickford was an ardent supporter
of environmental causes.
Page 19 of 349
arduous argosy Armageddon
adj n n
/ SBrjEwEs / / SBrgEsG / / TBrmESgedFn /
L It Gk > L
hard to accomplish or achieve : a fleet of ships or of anything final and conclusive conflict
difficult. likened to ships. between the forces of good and
Alan was not prepared for the The lone schooner had gotten evil.
arduous demands of his separated from the argosy in the In the Bible, the book of Revelation
construction job. inclement weather. mentions Armageddon.
arenaceous argot armaments

adj n
/ TarESnCshEs / / SBrgEt / armature
L F n
growing in sandy places. the special vocabulary and idiom / SBrmETchU(E)r /
Arenaceous plants develop (as slang) of a particular social L
blossoms after the first spring rain. group or class. [has near homonym: armiger]
Nowadays the argot of many armor.
arenicolous teenagers includes the word cool. As part of the preparation for the
adj contest at the medieval fair, the
/ TarESnikElEs / argumentative jousters were given their choice of
L+L adj armature.
inhabiting or burrowing in sand : / TBrgyESmentEZiv /
growing in sand soil. L armistice
Numerous arenicolous organisms given to or fond of disagreement : n
can be found at the beach. contentious. / SBrmDstDs /
Jill is so argumentative that no one L>F
areology likes to sit beside her on the bus. temporary suspension of hostilities
n as agreed upon by those engaged in
/ TarGSBlEjG / aristoi the hostilities.
Gk n pl Fortunately, the armistice that
the scientific study of the planet / SarDTstOi / ended World War I turned out to be
Mars. Gk permanent.
Todd’s interest in areology was citizens of high rank making up a
spurred by the discovery of governing body. arpeggio
possible life forms on Mars. When the aristoi ignore the needs n
of the common people, they are / BrSpejGTP /
aretalogy sowing the seeds of rebellion. Gmc > It
n production of the tones of a chord
/ TarEStalEjG / arithmocracy in succession and not
Gk n simultaneously.
a narrative of the miraculous deeds / Ta(T)rithSmBkrEsG / The opening measure of Ryan’s
of a god or hero. Gk + Gk piano recital piece featured a
Owen was fascinated by the rule of the majority. difficult arpeggio.
aretalogy of Hercules’ labors. The United States is an
arithmocracy as well as a republic. arraignment
argillaceous n
adj armadillo / ESrCnmEnt /
/ TBrjDSlCshEs / n F>E
L / TBrmESdi(T)lP / an act of finding fault with :
of, relating to, or containing clay or L > Sp denunciation.
clay minerals. any of several burrowing chiefly It seems that every few years there
The geologist determined that a nocturnal mammals having body is a wholesale arraignment of
large part of the mountain and head encased in an armor of existing educational standards.
consisted of argillaceous limestone. small bony plates.
Using its long, sticky tongue to arrasene
extract ants from their nests, the
armadillo may eat up to 40,000 arrive
ants at a sitting.
Page 20 of 349
arrogance arthritis ascension
n n n
/ SarEgEn(t)s / / BrSthrIZDs / / ESsenchEn /
L Gk L
a genuine or assumed feeling of inflammation of one or more joints the act or process of going upward
superiority that shows itself in an due to infectious, metabolic, or from a lower level or degree.
overbearing manner. constitutional causes. The article describes Tiger
After Sam won the contest, he Theo’s arthritis kept him from Woods’s rapid ascension to the top
displayed an annoying arrogance. playing tennis. rank of golfers.
arrogant arthroscopy ascertained

adj v
/ SarEgEnt / artichoke / TasE(r)StCnd /
L n L>F>E
exhibiting a level of superiority that / SBrZETchPk / made sure of : discovered.
is inconsistent with one’s position. Ar > It In the moonlight, the form of the
Jack’s arrogant attitude annoyed the flower head of a tall herb that heretofore unknown might now be
his more qualified colleagues. resembles a thistle and is cooked as ascertained.
a vegetable.
arsenal Norm demonstrated the proper way asceticism
n to eat an artichoke.
/ SBrs(F)nEl / ascribable
Ar > It article adj
a storehouse or source of supply for / ESskrIbEbEl /
arms, ammunition, or other military articulacy L
equipment. capable of being attributed to a
In early 1941 Franklin Roosevelt artifice supposed cause, source, or author.
believed that America’s most n Dad explained that the two books
immediate role was to act as an / SBrZEfDs / were ascribable to the same author
arsenal for democratic nations. L under different pen names.
a wily or artful stratagem.
arsenic Emma saw the artifice of Jane’s asinine
n reserved response, and she
/ SBrs(F)nik / returned to her first surmises. askew
Gk > L&F > E adv
a metalloid element that is used in artificial / ESskyV /
small amounts in alloys and in the E+F>E
form of its compounds chiefly as artillerist out of line : to one side.
poisons (as insecticides), in Jared’s house was leaning because
pharmaceutical preparations, and in artillery one of the joists had gone askew.
glass. n
Ingestion of arsenic was listed as / BrStil(E)rG / asparagus
the official cause of Tim’s F>E n
mysterious death. the missiles discharged by the / ESsparEgEs /
weapons of war. Gk > L
artesian The May Day parade in Red a plant widely cultivated for its
adj Square was widely known for its tender edible young shoots.
/ BrStGzhEn / display of artillery. Jack didn’t touch the asparagus his
F mother served him.
involving, relating to, or supplied arviculture
by the upward movement of water
under hydrostatic pressure in rocks ascend
or unconsolidated material beneath
Earth’s surface.
The water bubbling up in the
pasture was coming from an
artesian spring.
Page 21 of 349
aspartame assailant assonance
n n
/ SaspE(r)TtCm / assassin / SasFnEn(t)s /
L > ISV L + Fcf
a noncarbohydrate crystalline assassinate relatively close juxtaposition of
compound that is formed from the v similar sounds especially of
amino acids phenylalanine and / ESsasFnTCt / vowels.
aspartic acid and is used as a low- L>F “Zip your lips” was the teacher’s
calorie sweetener. murder (usually a prominent favorite example of assonance.
Since Bertha began her diet, she person).
prefers foods that are sweetened The newspapers carried gripping assuage
with aspartame. accounts of an attempt to v
assassinate the prime minister. / ESswCj /
aspersion L>F>E
n assemblage reduce to a state of peace, calm, or
/ ESspErzhEn / quiet : mollify, pacify.
L assess No one could assuage Bertina after
a calumnious or defamatory v she dropped her ice-cream cone.
expression or reflection. / ESses /
Questions about Tom’s handling of L assuagement
the club’s petty cash cast an determine the rate or amount of.
aspersion on his honesty. Joyce’s job with the insurance Assyrian
company was to assess damages. adj
asphalt / ESsirGEn /
asseveration geog name
asphodel n of, relating to, or characteristic of
n / ETsevESrCshEn / Assyria, an ancient empire of
/ SasfETdel / L western Asia.
Gk positive or emphatic affirmation or The doorways of the Assyrian
any of various Old World usually assertion : solemn declaration. palace of Nineveh were flanked by
perennial herbs that bear their The jury did not believe the large winged bulls.
flowers in long erect racemes. defendant’s asseveration of
Bernice thought that an asphodel innocence. asthmatic
would complete the bouquet nicely. adj
assiduously / azSmaZik /
asphyxiant adv Gk > L
/ ESsijEwEslG / caused by or affected with labored
asphyxiate L + Ecf breathing.
in a diligent, attentive, or solicitous Because of Pam’s asthmatic
asphyxiated manner. condition, her mother had to dust
v Lucinda questioned her brother and vacuum the house every day.
/ aSsfiksGTCZDd / assiduously before his interview.
Gk astigmatism
killed or made unconscious by assimilate n
obstruction of normal breathing. v / ESstigmETtizEm /
When the volcano erupted, many of / ESsimETlCt / Gk + Ecf
the town’s inhabitants were L a defect of an optical system (as of
asphyxiated by the dust and ashes. receive into the mind and consider the eye) that prevents light from
and thoroughly comprehend. focusing accurately and results in a
aspirin Sandy needs time to sort things out blurred image.
n and assimilate them properly. Amy’s new eyeglasses correct her
/ Sasp(E)rDn / astigmatism.
ISV assimilation
a white crystalline compound of
salicylic acid used especially in
tablet form as a pain-killer.
Tests have shown that small, daily
doses of aspirin can reduce the risk
of stroke.
Page 22 of 349
astringe atmospheric attitude
v adj n
/ ESstrinj / / TatmESsfirik / / SaZETtVd /
L Gk + Gk > L > F L > It
cause (tissue) to draw together : of or relating to the whole mass of [Note: The definition provided is
constrict. air surrounding Earth. not the one most commonly
Larry uses witch hazel to astringe Only two elements are known to be associated with this word.] any
his facial pores. liquid under atmospheric posture held momentarily in
conditions: mercury and bromine. dancing.
astrogator The premier danseur held his final
atomic attitude briefly, then leapt offstage
astronomy to thunderous applause.
n atrabilious
/ ESstrBnEmG / attitudinal
Gk atrichia
the science that treats of the n attrition
celestial bodies. / CStrikGE / n
Astronomy is a popular topic for Gk / EStrishEn /
science writers. congenital or acquired baldness. L
Some dogs are afflicted with a usually gradual loss of personnel
astuteness atrichia from birth. from causes normal or peculiar to a
n given situation (as death,
/ ESst(y)VtnDs / atrium retirement, and resignation in a
L + Ecf labor force) often without filling
the quality or state of having or atrocious the vacancies.
displaying shrewd discernment and adj The CEO promised that all of the
sagacity. / EStrPshEs / cuts would come from attrition; no
The candidate showed political L employees would be laid off.
astuteness in attacking his markedly inferior in quality.
opponent’s weak arguments. Mrs. Diamond vowed to do aubade
something about her grandson’s
asylum atrocious table manners. auctioneer
n
asymmetry atrophy / TOkshESni(E)r /
v L + Ecf
atelier / SatrEfG / one who conducts the sale of goods
n Gk > L at public auction usually as an
/ TaZFlSyC / undergo a wasting away or agent on commission.
L>F progressive decline. The auctioneer at the antique sale
an artist’s studio or workroom. Jay knows that his muscles will had a booming voice.
Ken hoped to find some affordable atrophy while he recuperates from
loft space downtown for his atelier. surgery. audacious
adj
athletic attenuate / OSdCshEs /
adj L
atmosphere / EStenyETwDt / recklesslessly venturesome :
n L presumptuously bold.
/ SatmETsfi(E)r / tapering gradually often into a long Tom’s audacious disregard for
Gk slender point. physical limitations will catch up
the air of a given place especially The locust tree has narrow with him sooner or later.
as affected by a particular attenuate leaves.
characteristic (as heat, moisture, audacity
wholesomeness, or
unwholesomeness).
Christy could barely tolerate the
close atmosphere of her one-room
schoolhouse.
Page 23 of 349
audience aureate auriferous
n adj adj
/ SOdGEn(t)s / / SOrGDt / / OSrifErEs /
L L L + Ecf
[has homonym: audients] those marked by a rhetorical style that is gold-bearing—used of gravels and
attending a stage or film production affected, grandiloquent, and rocks.
or viewing a televised program. heavily ornamental. The auriferous quartz veins
The audience erupted with Many students today have little sparkled in the sunlight.
thunderous applause at the act’s appreciation of the aureate
conclusion. language of English Renaissance aurora
poetry. n
audition / ESrPrE /
n aureity L
/ OSdishEn / n the redness of the sky just before
L or F / OSrGEZG / the Sun rises.
a trial performance to appraise an L + Ecf As the aurora began to brighten the
entertainer’s merits. the distinctive properties of gold. sky, the airline passengers eagerly
After hearing Alice’s stunning Pyrite’s apparent aureity has looked out their windows to see the
audition, the director offered her fooled many a prospector. rising Sun.
the role without hesitation.
aurelian auscultation
auger n n
/ OSrGlyEn / / TOskElStCshEn /
augment L + Ecf L
a collector and breeder of moths the act of listening to sounds
augur and butterflies. arising within organs (as the lungs
v Sarah admired the beautiful or heart) as an aid to diagnosis and
/ SOgE(r) / butterflies pictured in the book by treatment.
L Mr. Jacobson, a well-known Warming her stethoscope with her
[has homonym and near homonym: aurelian. hands before performing
auger and agar] give indirect auscultation has become second
evidence of : portend. auricle nature to Dr. Harris.
The club members’ enthusiasm and n
dedication augur success for the / SOrDkEl / auslander
club’s projects. L
[has homonym: oracle] a chamber auspices
augury of the heart that receives blood n pl
from the veins and forces it into the / SOspDsDz /
auk ventricle or ventricles. L
n The heart of a fish has one auricle patronage and kindly guidance :
/ SOk / and one ventricle. protection.
ON > Norw or Icelandic The medical team entered the
any of several black and white auricular country under the auspices of the
short-necked diving seabirds that adj International Red Cross.
nest in colder parts of the Northern / OSrikyElE(r) /
Hemisphere. L austere
In one of her books, Laura Ingalls of, relating to, or using the ear or adj
Wilder writes of a strange the sense of hearing. / OSsti(E)r /
midwinter encounter with a stray George’s understanding of GK > L > F > E
bird resembling an auk. unfamiliar words is auricular; that stern and unyielding in appearance
is, he must hear out loud the words and manner.
he reads before he can comprehend The substitute teacher was austere
them. and humorless.
Page 24 of 349
authentic autumnal avocado
adj adj n
/ Osthentik / / (T)OStEmnEl / / TavESkB(T)dP /
Gk > L > F > E L Nahuatl > Sp
worthy of acceptance or belief by characterized by qualities the pulpy green or purple
reason of conforming to fact or associated with or suggested by the somewhat pear-shaped edible fruit
reality. season between summer and of various tropical American trees.
The restoration society aims to winter. Tanisha’s first taste of sushi was a
provide an authentic reproduction Jessica’s new paintings have a roll containing avocado, crab, and
of the colonial village. serene, autumnal warmth. cucumber.
author auxiliary avocet

adj n
authoritative / OgSzilyErG / / SavETset /
adj L F&It
/ ESthBrETtCZiv / offering or providing help, any of several rather large long-
L assistance, or support especially by legged shore birds having webbed
exercising or assuming power to interaction. feet and a slender upwardly curved
influence the outward behavior of Roland volunteers as an auxiliary bill.
others. guide for the local Youth Making their way through the
Dr. Martin issued the instructions Mountaineers Club. marsh, the birders happened on a
in an authoritative manner. foraging avocet.
available
autobahn avoirdupois
n avalanche
/ SaUZPTbBn / n avuncular
Gk > G + G / SavETlanch / adj
a road in Germany with double F / ESvENkyElE(r) /
traffic lanes in each direction a large mass of snow, ice, earth, L
separated by a parkway. rock, or other material in swift acting or speaking with the
Klaus pulled his Mercedes over to motion down a mountainside. familiarity, kindness, or indulgence
the side of the autobahn to read the The tiny Swiss village was of an uncle.
map. destroyed by an avalanche. Morris took an avuncular tone with
Susan when he advised her on her
autodidact avalement college plans, even though he was
her elder by only three years.
autonomous avarice
n awe
autonomy / SavErDs / n
n L>F>E / SO /
/ OStBnEmG / excessive desire for wealth or gain. ON > E
Gk Pride, avarice, and gluttony are [has homonym: aw] abashed
the quality or state of being among the seven deadly sins. reverence and fear inspired by
independent, free, and self- authority or power.
directing. avaricious The good people of Sleepy Hollow
After years of fighting the colonial were often filled with awe at
government, the island was finally averred hearing his nasal melody floating
granted autonomy. from the distant hill.
aviator
autopsy awestruck
n avionics
/ SOTtBpsG / awl
Gk
examination of the body after
death, usually with dissection.
An autopsy showed that arsenic
was the cause of death.
autumn
Page 25 of 349
awry azure bacchanalian
adv adj
/ ESrI / / SazhE(r) / bacciferous
E Per > Ar > Sp > F adj
wrong, amiss. resembling the color of the / bakSsif(E)rEs /
Gayle’s plans for the victory unclouded sky. L + Ecf
parade went hopelessly awry. Sarah prefers to call her eyes bearing berries.
“azure” instead of “blue.” Sylvia took care not to park her car
axiology babblative under any bacciferous trees.
adj
axiom / SbablEZiv / bachelor
n E imitative? n
/ SaksGEm / given to excessive talking : / Sbach(E)lE(r) /
Gk garrulous. Celt > L > F > E
a proposition, rule, or maxim that The babblative waitress called an unmarried man of marriageable
has found general acceptance or is everyone at our table age.
thought worthy thereof. “sweetheart.” Kendrick was the only bachelor
“Early to bed, early to rise” is baboon living in the apartment building.
Uncle Abdul’s favorite axiom. n
/ baSbVn / bacillus
axunge F>E n
n a large primate with a short tail and / bESsilEs /
/ SakTsEnj / a doglike snout. L
L The children at the zoo were a disease-producing bacterium.
fat or grease usually of pigs or of entertained by the strange sounds Kendra will use a powerful
geese. of the baboon. disinfectant to kill any bacillus that
Suzanne’s cookbook of home might be lurking on the counter
remedies recommended axunge to babushka top.
soothe minor burns. n
/ bESbUshkE / backfisch
ayatollah Russ
n a triangularly folded kerchief worn backgammon
/ TIEStPlE / over the head and usually tied n
Ar > Per under the chin. / SbakTgamEn /
a religious leader among Shiite Emma’s Ukrainian doll wears a E
Muslims—used as a title of respect red babushka and an elaborately a game played with dice and
especially for one who is not an embroidered apron. counters on a board divided into
imam. two tables each marked with 12
When Ayatollah Khomeini gained Babylonian points in which each player tries to
political control of Iran in 1979, he adj move his own counters from point
re-created it as a religious Islamic / TbabESlOnyEn / to point and off the board.
republic. Heb > Gk Ed explained to Tim that the game
of, relating to, or characteristic of board edged with tall, thin
azimuth Babylonia, an ancient country of triangles was used to play
n southern Mesopotamia. backgammon.
/ SazEmEth / Houses and temples of the Old
Ar Babylonian Kingdom have square bacteriolytic
an arc of the horizon measured open courts, arched doorways, and adj
between a fixed point and the battlemented walls. / bakTtirGESliZik /
vertical circle passing through the Gk > L
center of an object. baccalaureate of, relating to, or producing the
Using a compass, the navigator n destruction or dissolution of
estimated the azimuth of the star. / TbakESlOrGEt / bacterial cells.
L The bacteriolytic power of blood
azotea the degree of bachelor conferred by helps the body overcome many
universities and colleges. diseases.
Marika earned a baccalaureate at
the age of 12. badgeringly
Page 26 of 349
badigeon baignoire balbriggan
n n n
/ bESdijEn / / bCnSwBr / / balSbrigEn /
F L>F Ir geog name
a cement or paste (as of plaster and [Note: Could be confused with a plain-stitch knitted often tubular
powdered freestone) used to fill peignoir.] a theater box having low usually cotton fabric used
holes or cover defects in wood or partitions that is in the lowest tier. especially for underwear, hosiery,
stone. Seats in the baignoire afforded an or sweaters.
The plasterer smeared badigeon in unobscured view of the stage. Moira’s imported Irish sweater was
the pockmarks on the wall. made of balbriggan.
bailiff
badinage n balcony
n / SbClDf / n
/ TbadFnSBzh / F>E / SbalkEnG /
L > OProv > F a court officer who seats witnesses Gmc > It
light and playful repartee or wit : and spectators, announces the an interior projecting gallery in a
banter. entrance of the judge, and keeps public building (as a theater);
Mrs. Lopez, our bus driver, order in the court. specifically : such a gallery
frequently engages in badinage Judge Cantor asked the bailiff to immediately above the main floor.
with her lively passengers. remove Mr. Sims from the Tickets for seats in the balcony sold
courtroom. out before those in the orchestra.
badminton
n bailiwick balestra
/ SbadTmintFn / n
E geog name / SbClGTwik / ballast
a court game played by two or four E
persons with light long-handled field of activity : sphere of ballerina
rackets and a shuttlecock volleyed operations. n
over a net. Only when the topic was / TbalESrGnE /
After lunch John suggested a birdwatching, his particular L > It
leisurely game of badminton. bailiwick, did Robin feel at ease a female ballet dancer.
talking to strangers. Although the ballerina seemed a bit
Baedeker nervous before her performance,
n baize her dancing was faultless.
/ SbCdDkE(r) /
G name balaclava balletomane
guidebook, handbook. n n
By the time his Italian vacation was / TbalESklBvE / / baSleZETmCn /
over, Ronnie’s Baedeker had come Crimean geog name L > It > F + Ecff + Gk > L > E
apart at the spine. a hoodlike knitted cap covering the one who takes extraordinary delight
head, neck, and part of the in artistic dance performances.
bagatelle shoulders and worn especially by The well-known balletomane took
n soldiers and mountaineers. roses to every performance.
/ TbagEStel / Every climber wore a balaclava for
L > It > F protection from the cold air. ballistic
a game played with a cue and adj
usually nine balls on an oblong balalaika / bESlistik /
table having cups or both cups and n Gk > L
arches at one end. / TbalESlIkE / of or belonging to the hurling of
Aaron is an excellent snooker Russ missiles.
player but is unfamiliar with the an instrument of the guitar kind Simon used ballistic laws to
rules of bagatelle. having a triangular wooden body determine where the arrow would
and from two to four strings. land.
bagel Vladimir strummed the balalaika
and sang a Ukrainian folk song.
Page 27 of 349
ballistics balustrade bandage
n pl n n
/ bESlistiks / / SbalETstrCd / / Sbandij /
Gk > L It > F F
the science of the motion of a row of short supports topped by a a narrow length of fabric used to
powder-propelled projectiles in rail to serve as an open parapet. cover a wound, hold a dressing in
flight. Juliet leaned on the balustrade and place, immobilize an injured part,
An expert in ballistics testified that gazed down at Romeo with adoring or apply pressure.
the fatal bullet had been fired from eyes. Mom immediately cleaned and put
the defendant’s gun. a bandage on Ted’s scraped knee.
bamboo
balloon bandalore
bamboozle n
balminess v / SbandETlP(E)r /
n / bamSbVzEl / unknown
/ SbBmGnDs / unknown a toy with an automatically
Semitic? > Gk > L > F > E + Ecff conceal one’s true motives from winding cord by which it is brought
the quality or state of being mild or someone, especially by elaborately back to the hand when thrown.
soothing. feigning good intentions so as to Jeffrey brought a bandalore to
The balminess of the evening gain an end or achieve an school for show-and-tell.
breeze helped Kate forget the advantage : mislead, hoodwink.
accident. Gavin tried to bamboozle his bandicoot
neighbor into offering her garage n
balmoral for his party by saying how much it / SbandGTkVt /
n needed a good airing out. Telugu
/ balSmOrEl / any of certain small active
Scottish geog name banality insectivorous and herbivorous
a boot or shoe that is laced in front; n marsupial mammals found in
especially : an oxford shoe with / bCSnalEZG / Oceania.
quarters meeting and centered over F Some species of bandicoot are
a separate tongue. the quality of lacking originality, endangered.
The balmoral first became freshness, or novelty.
fashionable in the 1850s, when Pearl’s English teacher commented banditry
Prince Albert popularized this type on the banality of much of the n
of shoe. class’s poetry. / SbandDtrG /
Gmc > It
balneation banana the practice of roving about and
n n pillaging especially in
/ TbalnGSCshEn / / bESnanE / semiorganized groups.
L African > Sp or Pg With the government in chaos,
the act or action of bathing. the elongated often curved and outbreaks of banditry were
Alicia uses a sponge to assist in her usually tapering fruit of the banana common throughout the country.
daily balneation. plant having soft pulpy flesh and a
rind that is usually yellow when banishment
balsam ripe.
n To introduce fractions, the teacher banjo
/ SbOlsEm / showed her students how a banana
L can be divided lengthwise into banjorine
an aromatic substance flowing thirds.
spontaneously or by incision from a bankruptcy
plant and not necessarily remaining banausic
liquid. adj banquet
When Henrietta retrieved the ball / bESnOsik /
from the branches of the fir tree, Gk baobab
the balsam made her fingers sticky. moneymaking, breadwinning :
vocational.
Brandon showed no inclination
toward banausic pursuits.
Page 28 of 349
baptismal barbiturate barnstorm
adj n v
/ bapStizmEl / / bBrSbichErDt / / SbBrnzTtOrm /
Gk > L > F Gk E+E
of or relating to the ceremony of any of a large group of acids or tour through rural districts staging
admitting one into membership in a their salts that are used as theatrical performances in large
Christian church with the use of sedatives, hypnotics, and farm buildings or makeshift
water by immersion, pouring, or antispamodics. theaters.
sprinkling. Even a mild barbiturate can be The troupe set off in buses to
The church’s new baptismal font is habit-forming if used incorrectly. barnstorm the Midwest with their
made of Italian marble. version of The Music Man.
bardiglio
baragouin n barognosis
n / bBrSdGl(T)yP / n
/ SbarETgwaM / L? > Sp > It / TbaTrBgSnPsDs /
F an Italian marble commonly having Gk > L
outlandish unintelligible speech. a dark gray or bluish ground the perception of weight by the
The explorer was taken aback by traversed by veins. cutaneous and muscle senses.
the baragouin of the excited The most exquisite mantel in the The loss of barognosis is a
natives. country estate was made of symptom of some muscle diseases.
bardiglio.
barbaric barometer
adj bargain n
/ bBrSbarik / / bESrBmEZE(r) /
Gk > L bargello Gk + Gk
of, relating to, or characteristic of an instrument for determining the
one who lacks refinement, bariolage pressure of the atmosphere.
gentleness, learning, or artistic or n Erica predicts the weather by using
literary culture. / SbarGPTlBzh / the barometer located on her
Harold was embarrassed by his F kitchen wall.
little brother’s barbaric table a special effect in violin playing
manners. obtained by playing in rapid baronet
alternation upon open and stopped n
barbarism strings. / TbarESnet /
Bjorn’s deft bariolage during the Gmc > F > E
barbarous third movement thrilled the the holder of a dignity or degree of
audience. honor ranking immediately below a
barbellate baron and above a knight.
adj barker The baronet swaggered among the
/ SbBrbETlCt / knights but quailed before the
L barnacle baron.
having short stiff hooked bristles or n
hairs. / SbBrnDkEl / baronial
The biology students were asked to E adj
identify animals with barbellate any of numerous marine / bESrPnGEl /
hides. crustaceans that are free-swimming F>E
as larvae but fixed to rocks or splendid, stately, spacious, ample.
barbican floating objects as adults. The baronial fireplace had enough
n The sailors scraped many a room to hold six-foot logs.
/ SbBrbDkEn / barnacle from the sides of the ship.
L>F>E
an outer defensive work of a city or barnacled
castle.
The invaders aimed their catapult
at the castle’s barbican.
Page 29 of 349
baroque barratry bartizan
adj n n
/ bESrPk / / SbarEtrG / / SbBrZEzEn /
It name? > F F>E E
of, relating to, or having the the persistent incitement of a small structure overhanging or
characteristics of a style of artistic litigation. projecting from a building for
expression prevalent especially in Barratry has overloaded our lookout or defense.
the 17th century, marked by country's courts. The guard posted at the bartizan
elaborate and sometimes grotesque was the first to spot the
ornamentation. barrel approaching army.
The baroque style in art and n
architecture was marked by the use / SbarEl / bascule
of curved figures. F>E n
[Note: The definition provided is / SbaTskyVl /
barothermograph not the one most commonly F
n associated with this word.] a unit of an apparatus or structure in which
/ TbarPSthErmETgraf / measure for petroleum equal to 42 one end is counterbalanced by the
Gk + Gk + Gk gallons. other on the principle of the seesaw
an instrument for recording both Sheiks wept as the price of oil or by weights (as in a bascule
pressure and temperature dropped below 17 dollars per bridge).
(as of the atmosphere). barrel. The castle architect proposed
The barothermograph was first building a bascule over the moat.
used to collect atmospheric data in barren
1895. adj bashful
/ SbarEn /
barouche F>E basilica
n [has homonym: baron] deficient in
/ bESrVsh / producing vegetation : bare, basilisk
L > It > G desolate. n
a four-wheeled shallow carriage The overcultivated land, once / SbasETlisk /
with a driver’s seat high in front, fertile, was now barren. Gk > L > E
two double seats inside, one facing a legendary reptile that has a fatal
back and the other front, and a barricade breath and glance.
folding top over the back seat. n Jessie debated whether to
Michelle and Phil rode to the prom / SbarETkCd / incorporate a basilisk or a
in a barouche. F poisonous snake into her fable.
a barrier or obstacle that prevents
barracks passage. basin
n pl A police barricade kept the crowds
/ SbarEks / at a safe distance from the burning basmati
Catal > F building. n
an often permanent building or set / TbBzSmBZG /
of buildings used especially for barrio Hindi
lodging soldiers. n a cultivated South Asian long grain
Each new recruit was assigned a / SbBrGTP / rice.
bunk in the barracks. Ar > Sp Jacques enjoys the aroma of
a Spanish-speaking neighborhood basmati.
barrage or quarter in a city or town in the
n United States especially in the bassoon
/ bESrBzh / Southwest.
F The politician continually reminded bastion
a massive concentrated and usually the public of his roots in the barrio. n
continuous discharge or shower (as / SbaschEn /
of missiles or blows). Gmc > Prov > F
In Puritan New England, those who a projecting part of a fortification.
broke the law were sometimes put Matthew paused at the castle
to death by a barrage of stones. bastion to look out over the
countryside.
Page 30 of 349
bathymeter bayou beauteous
n n
/ bESthimEZE(r) / / SbIT(y)V / bedizenment
Gk > ISV + Gk > F Choctaw > Louisiana F
a device for the sounding of depths. a creek, secondary watercourse, or bedlam
Proper use of the bathymeter was minor river that is tributary to n
crucial as Captain Byron navigated another river or other body of / SbedlEm /
through the shallows in the fog. water. Palestinian geog name > E
Dale’s grandfather lives near a a place or scene of wild mad
bathymetry bayou in southern Alabama. uproar.
After the final game of the
bathyscaphe bazooka championship, the parking lot was
n bedlam.
batik / bESzVkE /
n Amer E bedstead
/ bEStGk / a light portable usually crew-served
Javanese > Malay shoulder weapon used especially to beflustered
an Indonesian method of hand- launch armor-piercing rockets.
printing textiles by coating parts of Lenny begged his mother for the beforehand
the fabric with wax to resist dye tank, bazooka, and toy soldiers that
and dipping in a cold dye solution. he had seen in a commercial. beggar
Sheila used both batik and tie-dye
in her T-shirt creations. beachcomber beguile
v
batiste beacon / bDSgIl /
n E
batrachoid / SbGkEn / gain the notice of by the use of
E wiles : charm.
battalion a signal fire or lighthouse The teenager tried to beguile her
n commonly on a hill, tower, or pole. teacher into giving her a good
/ bEStalyEn / That lighthouse once served as a grade.
L > It > F beacon for ships nearing the shore.
a considerable body of troops beguiling
organized to act together : army. beaker adj
The commander advanced the n / bDSgIliN /
battalion confidently when he saw / SbGkE(r) / E
the pitifully few defenders Old Saxon > ON > E provoking pleased interest and
remaining at the castle walls. a deep openmouthed thin vessel diverting from concern or vexation.
that often has a projecting lip for Todd blamed the beguiling
bauble pouring and is used especially by influence of TV for his low grades.
chemists and pharmacists.
bavardage As Frank reached for the pipette, beguine
n he knocked an acid-filled beaker off n
/ TbavE(r)SdBzh / the lab bench. / bDSgGn /
L>F F
small talk, chitchat. beatitude a vigorous popular dance of the
After a stressful math class, Cora islands of Saint Lucia and
welcomed the opportunity for beaujolais Martinique somewhat like the
bavardage with her friends in the rumba.
cafeteria. beaumontage Cole Porter’s song “Begin the
n Beguine” started the beguine on
bayonet / bPSmBntij / the road to popularity in this
unknown > French country.
a composition used by artisans to
fill and conceal holes or cracks in
wood or metal.
Bart asked the conservator to
replace all the old beaumontage in
the statuette.
Page 31 of 349
behemoth bellipotent benevolent
n adj adj
/ bDShGmEth / / beSlipEZEnt / / bDSnevElEnt /
Heb > L > E L+L L>E
something of oppressive or mighty in war. marked by a kindly disposition to
monstrous size or power. The nation’s desire to become a promote the happiness and
Anwar’s wrestling opponent was a bellipotent power resulted in a prosperity of others.
behemoth of a man. drastic increase in its defense Elmer received a commendation for
budget. his benevolent actions.
beige
adj bellwether benignant
/ SbCzh / n adj
Per? > Gk? > L? > It? > F / SbelTweLE(r) / / bDSnignEnt /
of a variable color averaging light E L
grayish yellowish brown. one that takes the lead or initiative : kindly, mild, gentle.
Tired of the beige walls in her leader. The department store always chose
home, Ellen decided to repaint all Brooke’s firm has long been a Santa Claus with a benignant
the rooms with bold colors. considered a bellwether in the countenance.
industry.
beleaguer benison
v bellwort n
/ bDSlGgE(r) / / SbenEsEn /
D belomancy L>F>E
subject to oppressive or grievous [Note: Could be confused with
forces. belton venison.] the pronouncing of a
In June the black flies will invade blessing : benediction.
the campsite and beleaguer the benediction Tim’s favorite vocal benison is his
unsuspecting campers. n youth choir’s rendition of the Irish
/ TbenESdikshEn / Blessing.
belemnoid L
adj an expression or utterance of bequeath
/ SbelEmTnOid / blessing or good wishes.
Gk Alta’s mother orated an impressive berceuse
shaped like a dart. benediction at her wedding n
The museum’s collection included reception. / berSsE(r)z /
belemnoid carvings of unknown F
origin. beneficence a vocal or instrumental composition
of a soothing character.
believe beneficent Maya hummed a berceuse to her
adj son to soothe him to sleep.
bellicose / bDSnefEsEnt /
L + Ecf bereave
belligerent performing acts of kindness and
adj charity. bereavement
/ bDSlij(E)rEnt / Thanks to the generosity of a n
L beneficent contributor, the / bDSrGvmEnt /
waging war. symphony will be funded for E
The victorious faction is setting up another season. deprivation; especially : loss of a
an interim government and purging loved one by death.
its belligerent enemies. benevolence Some scientific studies have shown
n that bereavement, such as the loss
/ bDSnevElEn(t)s / of a spouse, can affect one’s
L immunity to illness.
kindly disposition to do good and
promote the welfare of others.
As a result of his grandfather’s
benevolence, Chad was able to
afford an Ivy League education.
Page 32 of 349
beret besom bibelot
n n n
/ bESrC / / SbGzEm / / SbGbETlP /
Prov > F E Gk > L > F
a soft flat visorless cap of woolen a broom made with a bundle of a small household ornament or
material originally worn by Basque twigs. decorative object : trinket.
peasants. Milena pretended she was a Mrs. Carnes gave her toddler a
The painter’s beret was a bit pioneer, sweeping out the garage bibelot to play with while the
tattered and moth-eaten. with a crudely constructed besom. women discussed plans for the
rally.
bergamot bestial
n biblioclast
/ SbErgETmBt / betacism
Turk > It > F bibliography
an essential oil much used in bethel
perfumery. n biblioklept
Elisa was wearing cologne scented / SbethEl /
with bergamot. Heb bibliopegy
a place of worship, as a chapel for n
bergschrund nonconformists. / TbiblGSBpDjG /
n The shelter overlooking the Gk + Gk
/ SberkTshrUnt / waterfall has become a bethel for the art of binding books.
G Sunday morning hikers who want A local bookbinder visited the class
a deep and often broad crevasse or to contemplate the grandeur of and explained how bibliopegy is
series of such crevasses frequently nature. both a craft and an art.
occurring near the head of a
mountain glacier. bevel bibliothecarial
The rescuers descended into the v adj
bergschrund to reach the injured / SbevEl / / TbiblGEthDSka(a)rGEl /
mountain climber. F Gk + Lcf
cut or shape to an angle : put a slant of or related to a library.
beriberi on the edge of. Thurmond has great interest in the
n Rhoda wants the glass shop to Dewey decimal system and other
/ TberGSberG / bevel her mirror before it is things bibliothecarial.
Sinhalese framed.
a disease caused by a lack of or bibliotics
inability to assimilate vitamin B-1. bevy n pl
The symptoms of beriberi usually n / TbiblGSBZiks /
respond well to dietary / SbevG / Gk
improvements. E the scientific study of handwriting,
a usually large group or collection. documents, and writing materials
berouged A bevy of reporters crowded especially for determining
around the gold medal winner. genuineness or authorship.
berylloid Several experts in bibliotics were
n bewilder asked to examine the scroll.
/ SberETlOid /
Indic > Gk > L > F + Ecf bewitched bicameral
a form consisting of a double 12- v adj
sided pyramid. / bDSwicht / / bISkam(E)rEl /
The jeweler decided to cut the E L
unusual crystal into a berylloid to cast a spell over. having or made up of two distinct
heighten its allure to potential Some say a sorceress bewitched the legislative bodies.
buyers. valley during the early days of The U.S. Congress is bicameral,
settlement. consisting of the Senate and the
besmirched House of Representatives.
bialys
Page 33 of 349
bicentennial bilge bimillenary
n n n
/ TbIsenStenGEl / / Sbilj / / bISmilETnerG /
Lcf + L + L > E unknown L
a 200th anniversary or its water that collects by seepage or a 2000th anniversary or its
celebration. leakage in the bottom of a ship or celebration.
Bargersville will celebrate the other vessel. In 1951 the city of Paris celebrated
bicentennial of its founding next Jeannie awoke to find bilge the bimillenary of its founding.
year. sloshing against her bunk.
binary
biceps bilharzia adj
/ SbITnerG /
biennial bilingual L
involving a choice or condition of
bifurcation billeted two alternatives only (as on-off or
n v yes-no).
/ bITfErSkCshEn / / SbilDZDd / The symbols conventionally used in
L>F L>F>E a binary system of numeration are
the point at which separation or served with an official order 0 and 1.
branching into two parts, areas, directing that a member of a
aspects, or connected segments military force be provided with binoculars
occurs. board and lodging (as in a private n pl
Satish pulled his car over and home). / bDSnBkyElE(r)z /
studied the map when he reached a During the Civil War it was not L>E+L
bifurcation in the road. uncommon for homeowners to be a handheld optical instrument
billeted. composed of two telescopes and a
bijou focusing device and usually having
billiards prisms to increase magnifying
bijouterie n pl ability.
n / SbilyE(r)dz / Binoculars have proved to be a
/ bGSzhVtETrG / Celt > F great boon to bird-watching.
F any of several games played on an
jewelry in which delicate or oblong table in which small balls binomial
intricate metalwork contributes are driven against one another or
more to the value than do the into pockets by means of a cue. bioluminescent
constituent materials. Honoria supplemented her adj
Marge scoured the display case in scholarship money by playing / TbI(T)PTlVmESnesFnt /
the antique shop for an addition to billiards for pocket change. Gk + L
her collection of bijouterie. of, relating to, or characterized by
billionaire the emission of light from living
bikini organisms as the result of internal
n billon oxidative changes.
/ bESkGnG / n Bioluminescent animals occur in at
Pacific geog name / SbilEn / least 39 orders of the animal
a woman’s abbreviated two-piece F kingdom.
bathing suit. gold or silver alloyed with a
Joan’s father does not approve of considerable amount of some less biopsy
the bikini she would like to valuable metal.
purchase. The numismatist showed the wide- bireme
eyed youngster several coins made
bilateral of billon.
adj
/ bISlaZErEl / biloculine
L > Ecf + L
of or relating to the right and left bimestrial
sides of a central area.
The maple leaf exhibits bilateral
symmetry.
Page 34 of 349
bisagre blague blatant
n v adj
/ bDSsa(T)grG / / SblBg / / SblCtFnt /
MexSp F L
a small spiny cactus of Mexico and talk pretentiously and usually completely or crassly obvious :
the southwestern United States that inaccurately or boastfully. brazen.
is sometimes cut into slices and Politicians who blague generally Mr. Nall suspended Ed for blatant
candied. alienate their audiences. disobedience during the fire drill.
Elena often rewarded her
children’s good behavior with blandishment blather
slices of bisagre. n n
/ SblandishmEnt / / SblaLE(r) /
biscuit L > F > E + Ecf ON
n speech, action, or device that voluble, foolish, or nonsensical
/ SbiskDt / flatters and tends to coax or cajole. talk.
(L + L) > F > E No blandishment can sway Gil Matt’s announcement consisted of
a quick bread made in a small from his steadfast sense of 10 percent information and 90
shape from dough that has been propriety. percent blather.
rolled and cut or dropped and that
is raised in the baking by a blanquette blatherskite
leavening agent other than yeast. n n
A hot biscuit with butter and honey / blBMket / / SblaLE(r)TskIt /
was the best part of the lunch. Gmc > Prov > F ON + ON
a light meat (as veal or breast of a blustering, talkative, and often
bise chicken) in a white sauce. incompetent person.
n After the play, Grandmother took With Jay’s luck, the biggest
/ SbGz / us to a French restaurant, where blatherskite in the theater will sit
Gmc > F > E we sampled a blanquette of veal directly behind him.
[has homonym: bees] a cold wind; from the buffet.
especially : a cold dry north wind blazon
of southern France, Switzerland, blarney n
and Italy. n / SblCzFn /
Jake was told that he would need to / SblBrnG / F>E
pack warm clothes to withstand the Ir geog name coat of arms.
bise while he toured Switzerland. smooth wheedling talk. The duke’s blazon was on
Mrs. Lewis was not impressed by everything from the tableware to
bisector Al’s blarney as he tried to talk her the towels.
into raising his grade.
bittern bleach
blasphemous v
bivouac adj / SblGch /
n / SblasfEmEs / E
/ SbivTwak / Gk > L remove the color or stains from.
G>F speaking or writing irreverence Eliza decided not to bleach her
a camping out for a night. toward God. stained socks for fear of ruining
Private Slater packed a peanut During the Middle Ages many their elastic.
butter sandwich for his bivouac. books were condemned as
blasphemous and burned. bleary
bizarre
adj blasphemously blemish
/ bDSzBr / adv n
It > F / SblasfEmEslG / / Sblemish /
[has near homonym: bazaar] being Gk > L > + Ecf Gmc > F > E
strikingly out of the ordinary or at in an impiously irreverent manner. defect, flaw.
variance with some standard, real Dad blasphemously berated the A skilled watercolorist can render
or implied. driver who suddenly cut in front of a blemish invisible.
Todd’s bizarre behavior prompted him without warning.
his parents to call a doctor. blenny
blasphemy
Page 35 of 349
blepharal blizzard blunderbuss
adj n n
/ SblefErEl / / SblizE(r)d / / SblEndE(r)TbEs /
Gk unknown D+L>D
of or relating to the eyelids. a severe and prolonged snowstorm. an obsolete short gun or firearm
Leroy’s blepharal inflammation Last winter many cattle perished in that had a large bore and was
was caused by allergies. a blizzard. intended for shooting at close
quarters without exact aim.
blessing blossom The museum exhibit featured a
n blunderbuss along with other 18th-
/ SblesiN / blossoming century weapons.
E adj
the act or words of one who issues / SblBsEmiN / bobbin
approval or praise. E + Ecf
Nate and Irene sought the blessing flowering. bobolink
of their priest before they married. Between the blossoming branches
of the canopy, bits of blue sky bocaccio
blight looked down like wonderful eyes. n
/ bPSkBTchP /
blissful blotch AmSp&It > E
adj n a large olive to brown red-flushed
/ SblisfEl / / SblBch / rockfish of the Pacific coast from
E L? > F > E British Columbia to southern
marked by a state of complete or imperfection, blemish. California.
ecstatic happiness. The vendor referred to the ugly The bocaccio feeds on a variety of
The blissful bride and groom blotch on the leather as “natural fishes, crabs, and squids.
hurried off on their honeymoon. discoloration.”
blouse bocage
blithe n
bloviate / bPSkBzh /
blitz F
v blucher countryside or landscape marked
/ Sblitz / n by intermingled patches of
G / SblVkE(r) / woodland and heath, small fields,
rush (a passer) in football from a Prussian name tall hedgerows, and orchards.
position as a linebacker or a shoe having the tongue and vamp The charming bocage of rural
defensive back. cut in one piece and the quarters France presents a variety that
In a desperate bid to stop the other lapped over the vamp and laced delights travelers.
team from scoring, the coach told together for closing.
all three linebackers to blitz the The blucher was very popular with bodega
quarterback. returning servicemen after World n
War I. / bPSdCgE /
blitzkrieg L > Sp
n bludgeon a combined wineshop and grocery
/ SblitsTkrGg / n store.
G / SblEjEn / Miguel’s mother sent him to the
war conducted with great speed and unknown bodega for a loaf of bread.
force; specifically : a violent a short stick used as a weapon
surprise offensive by massed air usually having one thick, heavy, or boiserie
forces and mechanized ground loaded end. n
forces in close coordination. The shop teacher confiscated the / SbwBzETrG /
The French forces were roundly crude bludgeon Harlan had Gmc > F
defeated by the Germans’ fashioned from a baseball bat. carved wood paneling.
blitzkrieg. In Louis’s living room painted
blueprint boiserie provides a backdrop for a
melange of upholstered armchairs.
Page 36 of 349
boisterous bonhomous of France, the capital of which is
adj adj Bordeaux.
/ SbOist(E)rEs / / SbBnEmEs / Stuart thickened the Bordelaise
F>E L > F + Ecf over a low flame.
full of exuberant uninhibited and warmly genial.
often excessive spirits. Will told us about the bonhomous bordereaux
The locker room was boisterous master of ceremonies at the
after the championship. banquet. borderline
bole boniface bore

n n n
/ SbPl / / SbBnEfDs / / SbP(E)r /
ON name in an Irish play E
the trunk of a tree. the proprietor of a hotel, nightclub, [Note: The definition provided is
Biff threw a knife into the old oak’s or restaurant. not the one most commonly
bole. The boniface of the Red Horse Inn associated with this word. In
loves to have his picture taken with addition, word has homonyms and
bolero visiting celebrities. near homonym: boar, Boer, and
n boor.] a tidal flood that regularly or
/ bESla(a)(T)rP / bonnet occasionally rushes with a roaring
Sp n noise into certain rivers.
a Spanish dance to music in three- / SbBnDt / Ships in the harbor when a bore
quarter time and characterized by L>F>E occurred could suffer damage from
sharp turns and revolutions of the a woman’s head covering of cloth its considerable height or force.
body and stamping of the feet in or straw usually tied under the chin.
syncopated rhythm. Marie was tying her handkerchief borealization
Miguel and Ana danced the bolero over the kitten’s head for a bonnet. n
as the rest of the partygoers / TbPrGElDSzCshEn /
watched and clapped. bonsai Gk > L + Ecff
n adaptation (as of plants) to life in
bolide / SbPnTsI / more northerly regions.
n Jpn In the far North, borealization is a
/ SbPTlId / [has near homonym: banzai] a primary factor in the evolution of
Gk potted plant (as a tree) dwarfed by different plant species.
an exploding or exploded meteor or special methods of culture.
meteorite. Joanie spent the afternoon borzoi
Some UFO reports turn out to instructing a class on pruning a n
result from the appearance of a bonsai. / SbOrTzOi /
bolide. Russ
bookcase a Russian wolfhound.
Bolshevik The borzoi resembles a large
n bookkeeper greyhound with long wavy hair.
/ SbPlshDTvik / n
Russ / SbUkTkGpE(r) / bosky
a member of the Russian E
Communist Party. one who maintains accounts. botanist
The Bolshevik kept repeating, Dad has been a bookkeeper at the n
“This could never happen in a plant for 14 years. / SbBt(F)nDst /
communist country.” Gk + Ecf
bombilation boomerang a professional student of plants.
A botanist identified the mysterious
bonanza boondoggle plant growing behind Alysia’s
n garage.
/ bESnanzE / Bordelaise
L > Sp n
something that yields an often / TbOrdFlSCz /
unexpectedly large profit. F geog name
Millie struck a bonanza with her a brown sauce flavored with a table
latest business venture. wine from the Gironde department
Page 37 of 349
botany boulevard bourgeoisie
n n n
/ SbBt(F)nG / / SbUlETvBrd / / TbUrzhTwBSzG /
Gk > F D>F F
the branch of biology dealing with a broad thoroughfare often having the social and economic middle
plant life. grassplots with trees along the class.
Jan has no formal education in center or between curbings and Dillon went to college to, as he put
botany, but she does seem to have a sidewalks. it, “escape from the throes of the
green thumb. On a warm sunny day many bourgeoisie.”
strollers can be found on the boutonniere
botcher boulevard. n
/ TbVtFnSi(E)r /
botuliform boulevardier F
adj a flower or bouquet worn in a
/ SbBchElETfOrm / boundary buttonhole.
L + Ecf The groom wore a sprig of orange
shaped like a sausage. bounteous blossom as a boutonniere.
Cattails have botuliform flower
heads. bountiful bowdlerize
adj v
boudoir / SbaUntDfEl / / SbPdlETrIz /
n L > F > E + Ecf E name + Ecf
/ SbVTdwB(r) / abundant, plentiful. remove matter considered
F The potato farmers rejoiced over indelicate or otherwise
a woman’s dressing room, their bountiful harvest. objectionable from.
bedroom, or private sitting room. When the publisher chose to
The boudoir adjacent to the master bouquet bowdlerize the novel, the school
bedroom was, to Brooke, the most n librarian refused to order it.
fascinating room on the tour. / bPSkC /
F bowery
bough the distinctive fragrance (as of a
n wine or brandy) derived from the bowline
/ SbaU / processes of fermentation and n
E aging. / SbPlDn /
[has homonym: bow] a branch of a Jim found the bouquet of the E
tree. mystery wine much to his liking. a rope fastened near the middle of
Grass would grow better beneath the perpendicular edge of a square
the tree if the lowest bough were bouquiniste sail and used to keep the weather
removed. n edge of the sail taut forward when
/ bVkGnGst / the ship is close-hauled.
bouillabaisse D>F Suzanne told Julio to cleat the
a dealer in secondhand books. bowline down tightly as she
bouillon The bouquiniste encouraged us to prepared to tack.
n browse as long as we wanted.
/ SbVTyBn / boycott
F bourgeois v
[Note: Alternate pronunciation has adj / SbOiTkBt /
homonym: bullion.] a broth made / SbVrzhTwB / E name
by slow boiling of meat and F combine against (a person,
especially beef in water. of, belonging to, or characteristic of employer, a group of persons, or a
Benny learned how to make the townsman or the social middle nation) in a policy of suspension of
bouillon in his home economics class. dealings or relations for economic
class. The senator said that he espoused or political reasons.
the bourgeois virtues of thriftiness, The people of New Athens resolved
forethought, and a serious attitude to boycott the offending company.
toward life.
Page 38 of 349
boysenberry bradyseism bravura
n n n
/ SbOizFnTberG / / SbrCdGTsIzEm / / brESv(y)UrE /
Amer name + E Gk It
a very large bramble fruit with a a slow quiet upward or downward a show of daring or brilliancy.
flavor like a raspberry especially movement of Earth’s crust. The crowd cheered the aerialist for
valued for canning and preserving. The outskirts of Naples have been his bravura.
Mark enjoys the tart flavor of a afflicted by bradyseism since a
freshly picked boysenberry. 1980 earthquake. brawniness
n
bracelet braggadocio / SbrOnGnDs /
n Gmc > F > E
brachiate / TbragESdPshGTP / the quality or state of having large
v name in English poem strong muscles : muscular.
/ SbrakGTCt / empty boasting or bragging. Chip’s brawniness proved to be an
Gk > L Shelly was sure that Keith’s claim asset in playing football.
progress by swinging from one to have received ten speeding
hold to another by the arms. tickets was mere braggadocio. brazen
The children enjoyed watching the adj
chimpanzees playfully brachiate brankursine / SbrCzFn /
from tree to tree. n E
/ braNSkErsFn / done in the open or in plain sight
brachygraphy L>F with or as if with complete scorn of
n a prickly European herb having public opinion, the common good,
/ braSkigrEfG / rough, fuzzy leaves. or ethical principle.
Gk + Gk The brankursine has ornamental Kevin hopes that his brazen
shorthand : a method of writing value because of its claw-shaped violation of the school’s dress code
rapidly by substituting characters, leaves. will get him sent home for the day.
abbreviations, or symbols for
letters, words, or phrases. brannigan breach
Current job listings for n
administrative assistants rarely list / SbranDgEn / breakfast
brachygraphy as a mandatory skill. name?
a difference of opinion : breath
brachylogy controversy, squabble. n
n A rousing brannigan erupted at the / Sbreth /
/ braSkilEjG / dinner table. E
Gk air charged with a certain
conciseness of expression. brasserie fragrance, odor, or other
A successful poet is a master of suggestion.
imagery and brachylogy. bratwurst The breath of roses in the parlor
n came from the window open to the
bradawl / SbratTwErst / garden.
n G
/ SbradTOl / fresh pork sausage. breccia
E+E Karen is grilling bratwurst for the n
an awl with a chisel edge used to pool party. / Sbrech(G)E /
make holes for screws or thin, It
small nails. braunschweiger [has near homonym: Brescia] a
Desmond found a bradawl in his n rock consisting of sharp fragments
grandfather’s toolbox, but he / SbraUnTshwIgE(r) / embedded in a fine-grained matrix
couldn’t figure out what it was used G name (as sand or clay).
for. smoked liver sausage. A breccia was among the rock
Derek made a braunschweiger and specimens that the scientist brought
bradycardia pickle sandwich for his afternoon back from her trip to the desert.
snack.
Page 39 of 349
bretelle brigadier brininess
n n n
/ brEStel / / TbrigESdi(E)r / / SbrInGnDs /
Gmc > F It > F > E E
one of a pair of ornamental straps an army, marine, or air force officer the quality or state of being like salt
that go from the belt on the front of ranking just below a major general water or the sea.
a dress over the shoulders to the and above a colonel. Nadine does not enjoy swimming in
belt in back. After winning the decisive battle, the ocean because its brininess
Candace asked for help in Hiram was promoted to brigadier. irritates her skin.
adjusting her bretelle.
brigand brioche
brevet n n
n / SbrigEnd / / brGSPsh /
/ brDSvet / Celt > It > F > E Gmc > F
F>E one who lives by plunder usually as a fancy roll of very light yeast
an official document from a a member of a band. dough rich with eggs and butter.
government granting a privilege, The captured brigand refused to Amy wanted just a brioche and
title, or dignity. say a word about his group’s juice for breakfast.
Dominic found a brevet signed by leader.
President Fillmore among his broach
grandfather’s papers. brigantine v
n / SbrPch /
breviloquent / SbrigEnTtGn / F>E
Celt > It > F [has homonym: brooch] open up (a
brevity a two-masted square-rigged sailing subject) for discussion or debate.
n ship. No one dares broach the subject of
/ SbrevEZG / Sailing school will be held on a politics in front of Monique.
L specially outfitted brigantine.
expression in few words : terseness, broadcaster
conciseness. brightness n
Polonius told Queen Gertrude that n / SbrOdTkastE(r) /
“brevity is the soul of wit.” / SbrItTnDs / E + ON > E
bribery E a person who disseminates news on
n the state of being radiant : lustrous. radio or television.
/ SbrIb(E)rG / Walter wore sunglasses while he Russell has the clear voice and
F>E was skiing to protect his eyes precise diction of an experienced
the act or practice of giving or against the brightness of the snow. broadcaster.
taking a reward, gift, or favor with
a view to corrupt the conduct brilliant brocade
especially of a person in a position n
of trust (as a public official). brimstone / brPSkCd /
When the gambler offered the n L > It > Catal > Sp
athletes money to lose the game, he / SbrimzTtPn / a rich oriental fabric with raised
was arrested and charged with E patterns embroidered in gold and
bribery. sulfur. silver threads.
If the story were true, upon Tina discovered a gorgeous
bridle reaching the sacred spot the demon brocade in the remnant bin at the
would vanish in a flash of fire and fabric store.
briefcase brimstone.
brochette
brine n
/ brPSshet /
F
meat broiled on a skewer.
Marsha garnished her beef
brochette with green peppers.
Page 40 of 349
brochure brougham brume
n n n
/ brPSshU(E)r / / SbrV(E)m / / SbrVm /
F Scottish name L > OProv > F
pamphlet, booklet. [has near homonyms: broom, [has homonym and near homonym:
Juanita designed a brochure for the brume] a light closed horse-drawn broom and brougham] mist, fog.
zoological society. carriage with the driver outside in The ship’s foghorn blared through
front. the drifting brume.
brockage The brougham was once a common
n sight on the streets of London. brummagem
/ SbrBkij / adj
E brouhaha / SbrEmDjEm /
an imperfectly minted coin. n E geog name
Allen found a brockage in his piggy / SbrVShBThB / spurious especially in a cheap and
bank. Hebrew? > F showy way : phony, sham.
publicity, attention, or excitement Irene usually wears brummagem
bromeliad far beyond the merits or importance jewelry when she dines at fancy
n of its cause. restaurants.
/ brPSmGlGTad / Sean dropped his tray in the
Sw name + Lcf cafeteria, causing quite a brumous
a plant of a family of tropical brouhaha.
American herbs or subshrubs. brutal
The colorful leaves of the brucellosis adj
bromeliad make it a popular n / SbrVZFl /
houseplant. / TbrVsESlPsDs / L>F>E
E name + Lcf characterized by ruthlessness and
bronchial a human disease characterized by insensitivity.
extreme exhaustion and generalized The judge gave Gary the maximum
bronchitis aches and pains and acquired sentence, noting the brutal nature
n through infected animal products. of the crime.
/ brBnSkIZDs / An outbreak of brucellosis forced
Gk the sausage factory to shut down. bruxism
acute or chronic inflammation in n
the lungs. bruise / SbrEkTsizEm /
Because of his bronchitis, Sam had n Gk > E
given up jogging. / SbrVz / the habit of unconsciously gritting
F>E or grinding the teeth especially in
brontometer [has homonym: brews] an injury, situations of stress or during sleep.
n especially one produced by a blow Ellie’s bruxism was so pronounced
/ brBnStBmEZE(r) / or collision, that does not break the that her dentist made a bite guard
Gk surface it injures. for her to wear at night.
an instrument for measuring the Heather’s fall from her bicycle left
phenomena of thunderstorms. her with a bad bruise. buccaneer
In 1888 meteorologists began using n
a brontometer to record the details bruit / TbEkESni(e)r /
of thunderstorms. Tupi > F
brujo one of the pirates preying upon
bronze n Spanish ships and settlements
v / SbrVThP / especially in the West Indies in the
/ SbrBnz / Sp 17th century.
L > It > F sorcerer, witch doctor; especially : While on the “Pirates of the
[has near homonym: brawns] one that works black magic. Caribbean” ride at Disneyland,
become like bronze, a moderate The character of the brujo in the Maria thought she saw the eyes of
yellowish brown alloy of copper ballet was played by a dancer who the nearest buccaneer move.
and tin, especially in color. scowled through the entire first act.
Ike’s attempt to bronze on the
beach took an unfortunate turn
when he fell asleep.
Page 41 of 349
buccolingual buffoon bullion
adj n
/ TbEkPSliNg(yE)wEl / / TbESfVn / bullionist
L L > It > F n
relating to or affecting the cheek a person professionally engaged in / SbUlyEnDst /
and the tongue. entertaining others by tricks, F > E + Ecf
Pipe smoking can harm the gestures, or comic pantomime. an advocate of a metallic medium
buccolingual tissue. Along the midway a buffoon of exchange.
entertained the children with a The bullionist proposed a return to
buckboard laughable pantomime. the gold standard.
n
/ SbEkTbP(E)rd / buffoonery bumptiously
E+E n
a four-wheeled horse-drawn / (T)bESfVn(E)rG / bungalow
vehicle without springs with the F n
platform fastened directly to the the practices of a clown or / SbENgETlP /
front and rear axle, usually with a clownish person; especially : coarse Hindi
seat above it often mounted on loutish behavior. a lightly built single-story house or
springs. Mrs. Decker warned that she would cottage.
The Wilson family used a tolerate no buffoonery in her Wendy’s dream vacation includes
buckboard for travel and to classroom. renting a bungalow on a South
transport supplies from town. Pacific island.
bugaboo
buckram n buoyant
/ SbEgETbV / adj
bucolic E / SbOiEnt /
something that causes fear or Sp
Buddhism distress often out of proportion to able to regain high spirits after
n its actual importance in a situation. depression : lighthearted.
/ SbUTdizEm / Failing the geometry test was The buoyant author gladly
Skt name Kara’s bugaboo. autographed his book for buyers.
a religion of eastern and central
Asia. bulbous buoyantly
Buddhism has spread from its adj
original home in Asia to all corners / SbElbEs / buran
of the globe. L n
[has homonym: bulbus] / bVSrBn /
budgetary resembling or suggesting a bulb Turk > Russ
especially in roundness or in the a northeasterly wind of gale force
buffalo gross enlargement of a part. in Russia and central Asia usually
n The cartoon character’s heavy identified with sandstorms in
/ SbEfETlP / bulbous body lurched dangerously summer and blizzards in winter.
Gk > L > Sp > It on his spindly legs, which barely The dreaded buran from northern
a large wild ox with a shaggy mane supported him. Siberia swept across the tundra
and short horns that was once with extraordinary violence.
abundant on the central and bulgur
western plains of the United States. n bureaucracy
Jamie was awed by the / SbUlTgU(E)r / n
enormousness of the buffalo she Turk / byVSrBkrEsG /
saw at the zoo. parched crushed wheat as prepared F
and used as a dietary staple in a system of administration marked
Turkey and adjacent regions. by lack of initiative and flexibility,
Omar’s favorite dish is a salad by indifference to human needs or
made with bulgur, pine nuts, and public opinion, and by a tendency
raisins. to defer decisions to superiors or to
impede action with red tape.
bulletin Helga blamed the bureaucracy for
the six-week delay in getting her
bulletinize passport.
Page 42 of 349
bureaucrat burrito butte
n n n
/ SbyUrETkrat / / bESrGZTP / / SbyVt /
L > F + Gk > F Sp F
a member of the whole body of a usually baked flour tortilla rolled [has homonym: beaut] an isolated
nonelected government officials. or folded around a filling (as of hill or small mountain with steep or
Alexis spent 20 minutes trying to meat, beans, or cheese). precipitous sides that usually has a
convince a bureaucrat that she For lunch Fred ordered a burrito, smaller summit area than does a
really was seeking employment. rice, and refried beans. mesa.
A butte erodes mostly from its sides
burgher bursar because its uppermost layers
n n consist of hard rock and resist
/ SbErgEr / / SbErsEr / weathering.
G&D L
a resident of a town : townsman. [Note: Could be confused with butterfly
Every burgher showed up for purser.] an administrative officer v
Springfield’s fireworks display. (as of a monastery or college) in / SbEZE(r)TflI /
charge of funds : treasurer. E
burgherly The bill for the new gym floor was split almost entirely and spread
submitted to the school’s bursar. apart in such a way as to resemble
burgoo the spread wings of a butterfly.
n bursiculate George tried to butterfly the
/ (T)bErSgV / adj chicken breast but ended up with
unknown / TbErSsikyElDt / two ragged chunks of meat.
a savory highly seasoned stew or L>E
thick soup containing several kinds shaped like a small pouch or purse. butterscotch
of meat and vegetables originally Some seaweed plants have n
served at political rallies, bursiculate leaves. / SbEZE(r)TskBch /
barbecues, picnics, and community E
occasions. bursitis a hard candy made by boiling
Everyone looks forward to eating n together brown sugar, corn syrup,
burgoo at Drew’s Derby Day party. / TbErSsIZDs / and water.
L + Ecf Butterscotch has a deep golden
burin inflammation of a fluid-filled color and a delicious rich taste.
n cavity in a joint of the body.
/ SbyUrDn / Pain during the tennis game was buttress
Celt? > Catal? > F Brett’s first symptom of bursitis.
an engraver’s tool having a steel butyraceous
blade ground obliquely to a sharp busby adj
point. n / TbyVZESrCshEs /
The artist used a burin to engrave a / SbEzbG / Gk > L
design on a copper plate. E name? resembling butter.
a military full-dress hat made of fur The mixed vegetables were flavored
burly with a bag usually of cloth of the with a butyraceous sauce.
adj color of the facings of the regiment
/ SbErlG / hanging from the top on the right. buzzard
E The drum major strutted proudly in n
[has homonym: burley] strongly his white uniform and black busby. / SbEzE(r)d /
built : stout, sturdy. L>F>E
The director chose Harry for the bushel any of various birds of prey, such
part of the construction worker as a turkey vulture or condor.
because of his burly appearance. The buzzard is a common figure in
cartoons, making its appearance
when other characters are sick or
dying.
Page 43 of 349
byssinosis cabriole cacophony
n n n
/ TbisESnPsDs / / SkabrGTPl / / kaSkBfEnG /
Gk > L F Gk
a chronic industrial disease [Note: Could be confused with harsh or discordant sound.
associated with the inhalation of capriole.] a ballet leap in which one Spot’s encounter with the skunk
cotton dust over a long period of leg is extended in mid-air and the was accompanied by a burst of
time. other struck against it. cacophony.
Employees at the mill wore masks The dancers dressed as wood
to protect themselves from sprites performed a cabriole in cacuminal
byssinosis. every measure of the music.
cadaver
byte cache n
v / kESdavE(r) /
Byzantine / Skash / L
adj L>F a dead human or animal body
/ SbizEnTtGn / [has homonym: cash] place or usually intended for cutting so as to
Gk store in safety or concealment. expose the several parts and their
of, relating to, or characteristic of Jim asked Zelda to cache his locations and connections.
the eastern Roman Empire. valuables while he was on Duncan dissected a cadaver in
Byzantine bureaucracy has become sabbatical in Japan. anatomy class.
a byword for cumbersome,
complicated, inefficient, and cachet cadaverous
inflexible administration. n
/ kaSshC / cadence
cabana F
n a characteristic feature or quality cadre
/ kESban(y)E / conferring prestige or distinction or n
L > Sp inspiring respect. / SkB(T)drC /
a tentlike often portable shelter Acting in a hit TV sitcom does not L > It > F
with a projecting canopy over an carry the same cachet as acting in a nucleus or core group especially
open side facing a beach or a hit movie. of trained personnel or active
swimming pool. members of an organization who
Sam and Doug will move the cachinnate are capable of assuming leadership
cabana closer to the swimming or of training and indoctrinating
pool. cachinnation others.
n Its highly skilled cadre of managers
cabaret / TkakESnCshEn / enabled the company to achieve
n L great success in its first year.
/ TkabESrC / the act or action of laughing loudly
L? > F or convulsively. caduceus
a restaurant that provides The cachinnation of the comedy n
entertainment, usually singing and club's audience convinced the / kESd(y)Vs(h)GEs /
dancing. comedian that he was on his way to Gk > L
Sheila’s training in tap dancing becoming a star. a conventionalized representation
helped her get a job at the local of a staff with two snakes curled
cabaret. cacography around it and with two wings at the
n top.
cabinet / kaSkBgrEfG / In Greek mythology the caduceus
Gk was the staff of Hermes, the
cabochon bad handwriting. messenger of the gods.
adv Martin’s cacography made his
/ SkabETshBn / work illegible.
F
in convex form highly polished but cacophonous
not faceted.
The jeweler cut the stone cabochon
and mounted it in a platinum
setting.
Page 44 of 349
cafeteria calamity calico
n n
/ TkafEStirGE / calcium / SkalDTkP /
Turk > Sp n Indian geog name
a self-service restaurant or / SkalsGEm / any of various cheap cotton fabrics
lunchroom. L with figured patterns.
On the last day of school the a soft, silver-white bivalent Molly’s dress was made of a bold
students had a food fight in the metallic element that occurs in orange and yellow checked calico.
cafeteria. combination with minerals and
rocks. caliginous
caisson Calcium is an essential element in adj
n bones. / kESlijEnEs /
/ SkCTsBn / F or L
L>F calculate dark, obscure.
a two-wheeled vehicle for artillery v A caliginous sky foreshadowed the
ammunition attachable to a horse- / SkalkyETlCt / approaching storm.
drawn limber for marching. L
A caisson is sometimes used to ascertain or determine by calisthenics
carry the coffin in a military mathematical processes especially n pl
funeral. of some intricacy. / TkalEsStheniks /
Toriko likes to calculate her car’s Gk + Ecf
caitiff gas mileage after every trip. systematic exercises performed
n usually in rhythm and often in a
/ SkCZDf / calculator group to improve the strength,
L>F>E n suppleness, balance, and health of
a base despicable person. / SkalkyETlCZE(r) / the body.
The story centers on Batman’s L > E + Ecf Aunt Julia does calisthenics twice a
encounters with a psychotic caitiff, a device used for computing week in a program called “Body
the Riddler. amounts. Recall.”
Mr. Jensen permitted each student calisthenium
cajole to use a calculator during the
exam. callidity
cajolery n
n calculiform / kaSlidEZG /
/ kESjPl(E)rG / adj L
F / SkalkyElETfOrm / craftiness, cunning, shrewdness.
use of delusive enticements. L > ISV Br’er Rabbit was famous for his
After much cajolery, the kitten shaped like a pebble. callidity.
finally came down from the tree. In the Mayan writing system, the
characters were rounded like calligrapher
calabash pebbles and so were described as n
n being calculiform. / kESligrEfE(r) /
/ SkalETbash / Gk
Ar? > Sp&F calculus one that writes a beautiful,
the common bottle gourd. ornamental, or stylized hand.
A calabash with a hole cut in it calefacient Joni and William had their
makes a dandy birdhouse. adj wedding invitations inscribed by a
/ TkalESfCshEnt / calligrapher.
caladium L
n making warm : heating.
/ kESlCdGEm / A calefacient ointment relieved
Malay > L some of Dave’s muscular pain.
any of a small genus of tropical
American plants with variously calendar
colored arrow-shaped leaves.
Julie delivered a potted caladium calibrate
to her sick cousin.
calamine
Page 45 of 349
calliope calypso camouflaged
n n
/ kESlIE(T)pG / / kESlip(T)sP / camoufleur
Gk > L Gk name
a musical instrument consisting of a balladlike improvisation in campanile
a series of crude steam or air African rhythm usually satirizing n
whistles used on riverboats and in current events first composed and / TkampESnGlG /
circuses and carnivals. sung in competition in the British L > It
Passengers gathered on the upper West Indies. [Note: Plural form can be
deck of the Mississippi Queen to Harry Belafonte gained fame as a pronounced identically.] a bell
listen to the calliope. singer of calypso. tower usually freestanding.
From the hilltop Obin could just
callously camaraderie spot the great campanile of Christ
Church in Oxford.
callow cameline
n camphor
caloric / SkamETlGn / n
adj Sem > Gk > L / Skam(p)fE(r) /
/ kESlOrik / a twilled camel’s-hair fabric. Malay > Ar > L > AF > E
L>F Jordan bought a new overcoat [has near homonym: chamfer] a
of or relating to the heat-producing made of cameline to wear with his tough gumlike substance obtained
or energy-producing value of food. dress suits. especially from the wood and bark
Suzy became obsessed with caloric of the camphor tree and used
intake while on her crash diet. cameo chiefly as a stimulant in medicine.
n Whenever Johnny has a cold, his
calque / SkamGTP / mother spreads on his chest an
L > F > It aromatic ointment containing
calumet a small theatrical or film role camphor.
n usually performed by a well-known
/ SkalyETmet / actor and often limited to a single campodeiform
L>F scene. adj
a highly ornamented ceremonial The producer was grateful that the / kamSpPdGETfOrm /
pipe of the North American Indians star accepted a cameo in his new Gk + Gk + L
that was smoked at sacrifices and film. having an elongated and flattened
other magical or religious rites and shape—used especially of larvae of
on state occasions. camera some beetles and other higher
After the three chiefs reached insects.
agreement, they passed a feathered camionette Cybelle identified one of the five
calumet. n campodeiform larvae.
/ TkamyESnet /
calumny F campus
n a small truck or bus.
/ Skal(y)EmnG / The hotel provides a camionette to canaille
L shuttle guests to and from the n
a false charge or misrepresentation airport. / kESnI /
intended to harm one’s reputation : L > It > F
slander. camisole mob, rabble, riffraff.
According to Neal, the recent During the riot the canaille
article about him was pure camouflage destroyed and looted many stores.
calumny. n
/ SkamETflBzh / canard
calvities It > F n
n a disguise, behavior, or expedient / kESnBrd /
/ kalSvishGTGz / adopted or designed to deceive or F
L hide. a false or unfounded report or
baldness. Behind Jerry’s camouflage of story; especially : a fabricated
Larry’s calvities is intentional: He ignorance resides a wealth of report (as by a newspaper).
shaves his head every morning. knowledge. The report of the famous singer’s
death turned out to be a canard.
Page 46 of 349
canary candent cannelloni
n adj
/ kESnerG / / SkandEnt / cannibal
L geog name > Sp > F L
a small greenish-yellow finch white or glowing usually from cannibalism
extensively bred as a cage bird and great heat.
singer. The wire glowed candent like the cannonade
When the canary escaped in her filament of a light bulb.
living room, Susan put her cat canny
outside until she found the bird. candescent
adj canoe
canasta / kanSdesFnt /
n L canoeist
/ kESnastE / glowing or dazzling often from n
L > Sp great heat. / kESnVDst /
a card game that is a form of A candescent meteorite streaked Arawak > Sp > L > F + Ecf
rummy played usually as a two- across the southern sky. one that paddles a type of long
hand or as a four-hand partnership narrow boat.
game using two full decks plus four candidacy Evan became an expert canoeist at
jokers. n summer camp.
The two couples often played / Skan(d)DdEsG /
canasta after having dinner L + Ecf canopy
together. the quality or state of being one
that is likely or worthy to gain a cantankerous
cancellous post, position, or distinction. adj
adj Tony’s candidacy for the student / kanSta(i)Nk(E)rEs /
/ kanSselEs / council will be jeopardized if he AF? > E? + Ecf
L fails his algebra exam. marked by ill humor, irritability,
having a spongy or porous and determination to disagree.
structure. candlewick The cantankerous old man yelled at
Cancellous tissue occurs at the n Grady as he attempted to retrieve
ends of some bones. / SkandFlTwik / the football.
L>E+E
cancrivorous the twisted threads of soft cotton cantata
yarn contained in a candle.
candelabra Victor groped to light the cantatory
n candlewick in the dark.
/ TkandESlBbrE / canteen
L candor
a usually ornate and often heavy n canter
and large standard supporting a / SkandE(r) / v
candlestick or lamp. L / SkantE(r) /
In December Stella put red and [has near homonym: canter] E geog name
green candles in her candelabra on unreserved, honest, or sincere [has homonym: cantor] move at or
the mantle. expression. as if at a three-beat gait resembling
Russell’s candor in dealing with but smoother and slower than the
candelabrum difficult issues won over the voters. gallop.
n Cindy let the horse canter for a
/ TkandESlBbrEm / canine while but soon spurred it on to a
L gallop.
a large candlestick or a lamp canitist
usually ornamented and having n cantilever
several arms or branches. / SkanEtDst /
Germaine admired the ornate silver L + Ecf cantonment
candelabrum in the center of the one who dyes or tints hair
table. especially in a beauty shop.
Polly has been a canitist in a local
beauty shop for 25 years.
Page 47 of 349
cantor capital capsize
n adj
/ SkantE(r) / / SkapEZFl / capstan
L L
[has homonym: canter] a [Note: The definition provided is capsule
synagogue official who sings or not the one most commonly
chants liturgical music and leads associated with this word. In caracole
the congregation in prayer. addition, word has homonym: n
Jacob’s vocal talent led him to capitol.] highly meritorious : most / SkarETkPl /
consider becoming a cantor. enjoyable. L? > Sp > F
On his dad’s birthday, Philip a half turn either to the right or the
canvasser served a capital feast, with every left executed by a mounted horse.
n dish cleverly wrapped up in The front rank of galloping
/ SkanvEsE(r) / ribbons. cavalrymen fired their pistols and
Gk > L > F > E + Ecf then peeled off in a caracole to
one that takes or counts votes. capitatim regroup.
Helga voluntered as a canvasser adj
for the upcoming election. / TkapEStCZDm / carafe
L n
capable levied or granted at so much per / kESraf /
head. Ar > It > F
capacious Collecting an affordable capitatim a bottle usually made of glass with
adj fee for civic pool use will not cover a narrow neck and spherical body
/ kESpCshEs / operating costs. and used to hold water or
L beverages.
able to contain a great deal. capitulate Shlomo ordered a carafe of the
Dodie went to the beach carrying a house wine.
capacious canvas bag. cappelletti
n pl caramel
caparison / TkapESleZG / n
n L > It / SkarEmEl /
/ kESparEsEn / [Note: Could be confused with L > Pg > Sp > F
Sp > F cavalletti.] small cases of dough a firm chewy candy often
an ornamental covering for a horse. usually filled with meat or cheese. containing fruits and nuts and
The king’s horse wore an Bo and Annette dined on cappelletti typically cut into small blocks.
elaborately decorated caparison. in marinara sauce. Ida’s mother warned her not to eat
a caramel before she went to the
capillary cappuccino orthodontist.
adj
/ SkapETlerG / capriccioso caramelize
L adv v
resembling a hair : fine, minute, / kETprGchGSP(T)sP / / SkarEmETlIz /
slender. It + Itcf L > Pg > Sp > F + Ecf
The capillary tubes in the tissue free and impulsive—used chiefly as change (sugar or the sugar content
puzzled Dr. Chang. a direction in music. of a food) into a brittle brown
The ending segment of the violin substance by heating to about 170–
concerto was played capriccioso. 180 C.
Kara is going to caramelize some
caprice sugar to make peanut brittle.
capricious
adj
/ kESprishEs /
It
not guided by steady judgment,
intent, or purpose.
Hazel’s capricious behavior is a
source of constant annoyance for
her sister, Ruth.
Page 48 of 349
carbohydrate cardigan cark
n n
/ TkBrbPShITdrCt / / SkBrdDgEn / carnage
L + Gk E name n
any of a group of neutral a sweater or jacket that opens the / SkBrnij /
compounds composed of carbon, full length of the center front and L>F
hydrogen, and oxygen including usually has a round or V-shaped great destruction of life (as in
the sugars and starches. collarless neck. battle) : great bloodshed.
The nutrition facts indicated that Samantha’s aunt in Scotland sent Appeals to stop the carnage of war
the candy bar would provide Sheila her a colorful wool cardigan for fell on deaf ears.
with over half her daily allowance her birthday.
of carbohydrate. carnival
cardinal n
carbonaceous n / SkBrnEvEl /
/ SkBrd(F)nEl / L > It
carbonate L>F>E a traveling enterprise consisting of
adj an American songbird, the male such amusements as sideshows,
/ SkBrbEnDt / being bright red with a black face games of chance, rides, and
L + ISVcf and pointed crest and the female shooting galleries.
of or relating to a salt or ester of being much duller in color. The carnival was the only place
carbonic acid. One of Stephanie’s favorite winter Ralph had the opportunity to eat
After reading the paragraph six scenes is that of a cardinal perched cotton candy.
times, Hugo still could not on a snow-covered branch.
understand the bonding in the carnivore
carbonate ion. cardinalate n
/ SkBrnETvP(E)r /
carboy cardiomegaly L
n a flesh-eating animal.
carcass / TkBrdGPSmegElG / The hyena is a carnivore that
n Gk usually eats animals found dead.
/ SkBrkEs / enlargement of the heart.
Per > Ar > L > F Severe anemia can result in carnivorous
a dead body of a human being or an cardiomegaly.
animal : corpse. carotid
Kasey found the fresh carcass of caribou adj
one of his cows and knew that the n / kESrBZDd /
wolves were back. / SkarETbV / Gk
Algonquian > F belonging to or situated near either
carcinogen any of several large deer of of the two main arteries that supply
n northern North America. blood to the head.
/ kBrSsinEjEn / While in Montana, Jill Lara felt her pulse with a finger
Gk photographed a caribou silhouetted placed on her carotid artery.
a substance or agent producing or on a high ridge.
inciting cancerous growth. carpaccio
Asbestos has been proven to be a caricaturable n
powerful carcinogen. / kBrSpBch(G)P /
caricature It
cardiac thinly sliced raw meat or fish
carillon served with a sauce.
n When Linda ordered carpaccio, she
/ SkarETlBn / didn’t know that it is uncooked.
L>F
a set of fixed bells pitched in a
chromatic series of at least two
octaves and sounded by hammers
controlled by a keyboard.
Latasha will play the carillon at
Andy’s wedding.
Page 49 of 349
carpenter cartonnage cask
n n n
/ SkBrpEntE(r) / / SkBrtFnTBzh / / Skask /
L>E F Sp
a person who builds or repairs with material consisting of linen or [has homonym: casque] any
wood. papyrus glued together in many barrel-shaped vessel made of
Matthew hired a carpenter to thicknesses and usually coated with staves, headings, and hoops.
construct four bookcases. stucco. The salesman boasted that the
The museum guide said that the Scotch had been aged in an old
carpophagous elaborate mummy case made of sherry cask for many years.
cartonnage had been found in a
carriageable hidden vault of a pyramid. casserole
n
carrion caryatid / SkasETrPl /
n n Gk > L > OProv > F
/ SkarGEn / / TkarGSaZDd / a vessel usually having a cover and
L > AF > E Gk a handle and in which food may be
[has near homonym: carillon] the a draped female figure supporting baked and served.
dead and putrefying flesh of an an entablature in the place of a Laura baked the chicken and
animal. column or pilaster. broccoli in a casserole.
Vultures were picking over skunk The caryatid appeared to be
and opossum carrion at the grimacing from the strain of cassoulet
roadside. holding up the temple. n
/ SkasETlC /
carrot cascade F
n a casserole of beans baked with
cartel / kaSskCd / herbs and pork sausage and
n L > It > F sometimes other meats.
/ kBrStel / a fall of water over steeply slanting The cassoulet was originally a
It > F rocks (as in a river or brook). specialty of southwestern France.
a voluntary often international The swiftly moving mountain
combination of independent private stream became a cascade as it cassowary
enterprises supplying like rushed toward the valley below.
commodities or services that agree castanets
to limit their competitive activities cashew n pl
(as by regulating quantity or quality n / TkastESnets /
of output). / Ska(T)shV / L > Sp
Started as a cartel, the oil- Tupi > Pg a pair of rhythm instruments
producing nations control the the kidney-shaped nut of a tropical consisting of two shells made of
worldwide price of petroleum. American tree naturalized in all ivory, wood, or plastic which are
warm countries. fastened together to hang from the
cartilage Jack dug through the can of mixed thumb and are clicked by the other
n nuts, looking for the last cashew. fingers.
/ SkBrZFlij / The flamenco dancer’s rapidly
L cashier clicking castanets intrigued Diana.
a translucent elastic tissue that n
composes most of the skeleton of / kaSshi(E)r / castigate
the embryos and very young of F>D
vertebrates and is for the most part one that handles customer Castilian
converted into bone in the higher payments for goods or services adj
forms. rendered. / kaSstilyEn /
Hans had a small piece of cartilage A cashier must keep a watchful eye L
removed from his elbow. for counterfeit currency. of, relating to, or characteristic of
the standard Spanish language.
carton Juan incorporates so many English
words in his conversation that his
speech is far from Castilian.
casuistic
Page 50 of 349
casuistry catalytic catastasis
n adj n
/ SkazhEwDstrG / / TkaZElSiZik / / kEStastEsDs /
L > Sp Gk Gk
the study of or the doctrine that causing, involving, or relating to the dramatic complication
deals with cases of conscience. the change in the rate of a chemical immediately preceding the climax
To complete her degree in reaction brought about by often of a play.
philosophy, Tisha had to take a small amounts of a substance that is During the catastasis the audience
semester of casuistry. unchanged chemically at the end of wondered how the hero would
the reaction. resolve his predicament.
catachresis Iron plus small amounts of
n potassium and aluminum oxides catastrophe
/ TkaZESkrGsDs / has a catalytic effect on the n
Gk synthesis of ammonia. / kEStastrE(T)fG /
the misuse of words. Gk
When Monica used the word infer catamaran the final action that completes the
to mean “imply” in her essay, her unraveling of the plot in a tragedy :
English teacher wrote catachresis cataphract denouement.
in the margin. n In the drama’s catastrophe the
/ SkaZETfrakt / hero dies a valiant death to save
cataclysm Gk his beloved.
n a suit of armor for the whole body.
/ SkaZETklizEm / The knight in a cataphract was catechism
Gk mounted on a charger and
a violent geologic change involving equipped with a lance. catechumen
sudden and extensive alterations of n
Earth’s surface. catapult / TkaZESkyVmDn /
Scientists are standing by their v Gk > L> F
prediction that a cataclysm will / SkaZETpElt / one receiving rudimentary
occur in California. Gk > L instruction in the doctrines of
move with a suddenness or force as Christianity.
cataclysmic if propelled by a device that hurls A child who attends a Sunday
heavy stones. School program could be
catacomb The general’s wartime success was considered a catechumen.
enough to catapult him into
catadromous political power. category
adj
/ kEStadrEmEs / cataract catenary
Gk > L n n
living in fresh water and going to / SkaZETrakt / / SkaZETnerG /
the sea to spawn. Gk > L > E L
Whereas the salmon migrates from a clouding of the lens of the eye the curve assumed by a perfectly
the sea to fresh water to spawn, the obstructing the passage of light. flexible cord hanging freely from
catadromous American eel does Grandpa’s cataract necessitated two fixed points.
just the reverse. surgical replacement of the lens in Part of Dominick’s math test was to
his eye. figure out the equation for a
catalepsy catenary.
n catarrh
/ SkaZFlTepsG / n catenulate
Gk / kEStBr / adj
a condition of suspended animation Gk > L > F / kEStenyElDt /
and loss of voluntary motion [has homonym and near homonym: L
associated with hysteria and Qatar and guitar] inflammation of a having a chain-like form.
schizophrenia. mucous membrane in humans or The artist’s paintings mimic the
Doctors were confounded by animals characterized by catenulate markings on butterflies’
Juan’s catalepsy. congestion and secretion of mucus. wings.
Catarrh can be brought on by
catalina infection, allergies, dry air, or
chemical irritants.
Page 51 of 349
caterer caudal cauterize
n adj v
/ SkCZErE(r) / / SkOdFl / / SkOZETrIz /
AF > E + Ecf L Gk > L
one whose business is to arrange [has near homonym: coddle] burn or sear with a caustic brand.
for and supervise all the details constituting, belonging to, or Dr. Bennett used a laser to
relating to food service for any relating to a tail. cauterize Tony’s wound.
social affair. As a tadpole’s legs grow, its caudal
The caterer placed a parsley leaf appendage gradually disappears. cavalcade
on each deviled egg. n
caudillo / SkavElTkCd /
caterpillar n L > It > F
n / kaUSLG(l)(T)yP / a procession of riders or carriages.
/ SkaZE(r)TpilEr / L > Sp The king headed up the cavalcade
L>F>E a military leader (as in a Latin- proceeding toward the Duke of
the elongated wormlike larva of a American country) usually of Parma.
butterfly or moth. guerrilla or irregular forces loyal to
The body-surface hairs on the him or her personally. cavalier
caterpillar in Jamie’s hand contain The reporter found that most of the adj
a poisonous substance that causes soldiers would willingly give their / TkavESli(E)r /
intense itching. lives for their caudillo. L > OProv > It > F
marked by lofty disregard of
caterwaul cauliflower others’ interests, rights, or feelings.
n Eloise displayed a cavalier attitude
cathartic / SkOlETflaU(E)r / toward the homecoming plans.
L > It
cathedral a garden plant that is closely related cavalletti
adj to the cabbage and is grown for n
/ kESthGdrEl / food. / TkavESleZG /
L>E Sheldon won’t eat cauliflower L > It
of, relating to, or being a bishop’s unless it is smothered in melted [Note: Could be confused with
church. cheese. cappelletti.] a series of timber
Sister Agatha watered the tulips in jumps that are adjustable in height
the cathedral garden. causerie for schooling horses.
n Black Beauty easily jumped over
cathole / TkPz(E)SrG / the cavalletti as Justin watched
L>F with pride.
Catullian an informal light conversation :
adj chat. cavalry
/ kEStElGEn / Bridget tried unsuccessfully all
L name evening to engage Mrs. Vickers in caveat
of, relating to, or like the Roman causerie. n
poet Catullus or his lyric poems. / SkBvGTBt /
The great felicity of language and causeway L
intense personal feeling of a warning enjoining one from
Randolph’s poem made it caustic certain acts or practices.
Catullian. adj The oldest caveat of commerce is
/ SkOstik / “Let the buyer beware.”
caucus Gk cavernicolous
n capable of destroying the texture of
/ SkOkEs / anything or eating away its cavernous
Algonquian substance by chemical action : adj
a conference of party or corrosive. / SkavE(r)nEs /
organization leaders to decide on Ned never suspected that perfume L
policies, plans, appointees, or might have a caustic effect on constituting or suggesting a large
candidates. plastic. underground chamber.
The caucus stayed in session until 3 The thick grove of vine-covered
a.m. finalizing its slate of nominees. trees threw a cavernous gloom over
the area.
Page 52 of 349
cavil celeritous cement
v adj v
/ SkavEl / / sDSlerEZEs / / sDSment /
L L>F>E L>F>E
object or criticize adversely for swift-moving. join, unite, or cause to adhere by or
trivial reasons. The celeritous bicyclist almost as if by means of a binding
Even if Tracy’s room is spotlessly knocked Trudy down. element.
clean, she knows that her mom will After Byron chose the tiles for his
cavil at something about it. celery mosaic, he used a strong glue to
n cement them in place on the
cavort / Ssel(E)rG / pattern.
v Gk > L > It?
/ kESvO(E)rt / a vegetable with leafstalks that are cemetery
L? > F > It eaten raw or cooked.
bound, prance, or frisk about. Terry’s favorite snack is celery cenotaph
In Bosch’s painting Garden of filled with pimento cheese. n
Earthly Delights, horses and giant / SsenETtaf /
birds cavort in a surreal landscape. celestial Gk
adj a tomb or a monument erected in
cedilla / sDSles(h)chEl / honor of a person whose body is
n L elsewhere.
/ sDSdilE / of or relating to the sky. A magnificent cenotaph was
L > Sp The awesome display of celestial erected outside the city of Troy.
a mark placed under a letter to light was later identified as a
indicate a sound different from that meteor shower. censorious
which the unmodified character adj
bears in certain situations. celibacy / senSsPrGEs /
Martha did not earn a perfect score L
on her French paper because she cellarage marked by or given to an
forgot the cedilla in the word inclination to discover and severely
garçon. cellist condemn especially social, moral,
or artistic errors.
ceiling cello Helen was in one of her censorious
n moods at the reception this
/ SsGliN / cellophane evening.
E n
[has homonym: sealing] the / SselETfCn / census
overhead inside lining of a room. (L + Gk) > F n
There was a terrible crash from a transparent sheet or tube of / Ssen(t)sEs /
inside the wagon that sounded as if regenerated cellulose used chiefly L
a whole set of dishes had been for packaging food and an official enumeration of the
dropped from the ceiling onto a merchandise. population of a country, city, or
hard stone floor. Nina refused to buy tomatoes other administrative district.
packaged in cellophane. In the United States, a census is
celebrant taken every ten years.
cellulose
celeriac n centaur
n / SselyETlPs / n
/ sDSlerGTak / L > F + Ecf / SsenTtO(E)r /
Gk > L > It? any of several fibrous substances Gk > L
a plant of the parsley family grown constituting the chief part of the one of an ancient mythical Greek
for its turniplike edible root. cell walls of plants and of many race imagined as men with the
Rhoda added chopped celeriac to fibrous products. bodies of horses.
her soup. Most household sponges are made The estate garden included a
of cellulose. marble statue of a centaur.
Page 53 of 349
centaury cephalalgia cereal
n n n
/ SsenTtOrG / / TsefESlalj(G)E / / SsirGEl /
Gk Gk L
an Old World herb formerly used pain inside the head : headache. [has homonym: serial] a prepared
as a tonic. Mortimer’s cephalalgia made him foodstuff of grain (as oatmeal or
Since ancient times centaury has irritable and short-tempered. cornflakes) used especially as a
had medicinal uses. breakfast food.
cephalometry David was eating his cereal when
centennial the school bus drove by his house.
cephalopod
centimeter n cerecloth
n / SsefElETpBd /
/ SsentETmGZE(r) / Gk cerise
F any of a class of marine mollusks
a unit of length equal to 1/100 including the squids, cuttlefishes, cerium
meter. and octopuses all having around the
Your little finger is about a front of the head a group of cerography
centimeter wide at the top. elongated muscular arms usually n
furnished with prehensile suckers / sDSrBgrEfG /
centipede or hooks. Gk
The squid is a ten-armed the art of making characters or
centrifugal cephalopod. designs in or with wax.
The maps in the old book were
centrifuge Cepheid originally made by the process of
n n cerography, in which beeswax was
/ SsentrETfyVj / / SsGfGDd / used.
L>F Gk name
a machine for whirling fluids one of a class of pulsating stars certainty
rapidly to separate substances of whose intrinsic light variations are n
different densities. very regular. / SsErtFntG /
A centrifuge was used to separate The apparent magnitude of a L>F>E
the cream from the milk. Cepheid can vary greatly in a the quality or state of being
month’s time. objectively fixed, settled.
centripetal Science boasts the beauty of
adj ceraceous certainty.
/ senStripEZFl /
L + L + Ecf ceramic cerumen
moving, proceeding, or acting in a adj n
direction toward a center or axis. / sDSramik / / sDSrVmEn /
Centripetal force serves to keep Gk L
electrons moving around the of or relating to the art of the yellow waxlike secretion from
nucleus of an atom. fashioning clay into useful or the glands of the external ear—
ornamental objects. called also “earwax.”
century Luke’s home is a showcase for The doctor irrigated Ariel’s ear to
n ceramic objects he has created. remove impacted cerumen.
/ Ssench(E)rG /
L ceraunograph cessation
a period of 100 years. n n
Mr. Davis asked each student to / sDSrOnETgraf / / seSsCshEn /
name what he or she thought was Gk + Gk L>F>E
the most important invention of the an instrument for recording a temporary or final ceasing or
past century. chronologically by pen the discontinuance (as of action).
occurrence of thunder and The peal of the bell marked the
lightning. cessation of the emergency
Marie set up a ceraunograph to preparedness drill.
monitor the late-summer storms.
Page 54 of 349
cetology chamberlain chandelier
n n n
/ sGStBlEjG / / SchCmbE(r)lDn / / TshandESli(E)r /
L + Gk Gmc > F > E L>F
[has near homonym: sitology] a a bedchamber attendant for royalty a lighting fixture suspended from
branch of zoology dealing with the or nobility. the ceiling and having two or more
whales. The grand council insisted that the lights.
Many renowned scientists in the chamberlain wake the king. Dad finally got around to installing
field of cetology assembled in a dimmer switch for our
Japan to discuss the recent chamfer chandelier.
beaching incidents. v
/ Scham(p)fE(r) / chandelle
chaffinch L>F n
n cut off corners or edges (as of / shanSdel /
/ Scha(T)finch / timber columns or beams). F
E Gordon decided to chamfer the an abrupt climbing turn of an
a common Old World bird often ceiling beams of his cottage. airplane.
kept as a cage bird and having in Many of the passengers gasped
the male a reddish breast plumage champagne when the pilot executed a
and a cheerful song. n chandelle.
Along the river path Janice spotted / shamSpCn /
a chaffinch perched on the back of L>F changeable
a bench. [has homonym: champaign] a pale
orange yellow to light grayish chansonnette
chaffseed yellowish brown.
Of the colors of limousines chaos
chagrin available for hire, Ted and Kara
n preferred champagne. chaotic
/ shESgrin / adj
F champignon / kCSBZik /
vexation, disquietude, or distress of n Gk
mind brought on by humiliation, / shamSpinyEn / being in a state of or marked by
hurt pride, disappointment, or F utter confusion completely wanting
consciousness of failure or error. an edible fungus; especially : the in order, sequence, organization, or
Pete tried to conceal his chagrin common meadow mushroom. predictable operation.
when his younger brother beat him At dinner, Denise had a stuffed The course in time management did
at chess. champignon as an appetizer. not help Brenda alter her chaotic
lifestyle.
chalaza chancel
n chapeau
chalice / Schan(t)sEl / n
L>F>E / shaSpP /
chalicosis the part of a church in which is L>F
n located the altar or communion [Note: Plural form can be
/ TkalESkPsDs / table, the pulpit, and the lectern and pronounced identically. In
Gk > L which is customarily on a higher addition, word has near homonyms:
a pulmonary disease occurring level than the nave. chapon, shapo.] a hat.
among stonecutters that is caused Fitting 75 choir members in the Pierre doffed his chapeau when he
by inhalation of stone dust. chancel will be an almost entered the room.
Chalicosis afflicted an alarming impossible task.
number of workers at the chapel
monument plant. chancellor n
n / SchapEl /
/ Schan(t)s(E)lE(r) / L>F>E
L>F>E a private place of worship.
a university officer of high rank. The duke’s funeral was held in the
Professor Burns has all the castle chapel.
requirements to be the next
chancellor of Highland College. chaplaincy
Page 55 of 349
chaplet charcoal chasmophyte
n n n
/ SchaplDt / / SchBrTkPl / / SkazmETfIt /
L>F>E (F + E) > E Gk
a garland or wreath to be worn on a dark-colored or black porous a plant that grows in the crevices of
the head. form of carbon used for fuel and rocks.
Rosalie gazed admiringly at the various other mechanical, artistic, There was just enough soil for the
painting of the maiden in a scarlet and chemical processes. chasmophyte to grow in the chinks
gown with a chaplet of flowers on The only supplies Debbie needs for between rocks on the cliff.
her head. her drawing class are charcoal and
a sketch pad. chassepot
character
n chariot chassis
/ SkarDktE(r) / n
Gk > L > F > E charlatan / SchasG /
personality as represented or n L>F
realized in fiction or drama. / SshBrlEtEn / the frame upon which is mounted
The main character in the play is It the body (as of an automobile or
Joan of Arc. a pretender to medical knowledge : airplane).
quack. Gary popped his slot car’s body
characteristic A consumer group called the back onto the chassis and set the
adj herbal potion vendor a vehicle back on the track.
/ TkarDktESristik / “charlatan.”
Gk chartaceous chasuble
belonging to or especially typical adj n
of the essential nature of. / kBrStCshEs / / SchazEbEl /
At last Meg looked at him, pushing Gk > L + Ecf L>F
her glasses in characteristic resembling paper : made of paper. an outer ecclesiastical garment in
gesture. Andrew collected a handful of the form of a sleeveless cloak or
chartaceous dead leaves. mantle that slips over the wearer’s
charactonym head but remains open at the sides.
n chartreuse The priest wore a white chasuble to
/ SkarDktETnim / n celebrate Sunday mass.
Gk > L > F > E / shBrStrVz /
a name especially for a fictional L > F trademark chateaubriand
character that suggests a distinctive a variable color averaging a n
trait of the character. brilliant yellow green. / TshaTtPbrGSBM /
In his novel Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Elsie commented that the F name
Truman Capote gave his chartreuse vehicle looked like a a thick tenderloin steak.
protagonist the charactonym huge dollop of wasabi. The server commented that both the
“Holly Golightly.” prime rib and the chateaubriand
charango chary were excellent menu choices.
n
/ chESraN(T)gP / chasm chatoyant
Sp n
a small guitar of Spanish America / SkazEm / chattel
with a body typically made of an Gk > L
animal shell. a deep opening : a narrow, deep Chaucerian
Luisa plucked the melody of the steep-walled valley, gorge or adj
song on the charango. canyon. / chOSsirGEn /
Earthquake tremors opened a great E name
chasm in the valley. of, relating to, befitting, or
resembling the English medieval
writer Geoffrey Chaucer or his
writings.
The old Chaucerian manuscript
was unfortunately not on display
when Hugh visited the museum.
Page 56 of 349
chauffeur cheapskate chevelure
n n n
/ SshPfE(r) / / SchGpTskCt / / TshevESlU(E)r /
F E + ON > E L>F
[has homonyms: shofar, shophar] a person unwilling to share a nebulous envelope (as around the
one that is employed to operate a expenses or give : miser. nucleus of a comet).
motor vehicle for the transportation Tom accused Cathy of being a The chevelure of Halley’s comet
of persons. cheapskate after learning that she was much dimmer than expected at
Henry hired a chauffeur to pick up recycled gifts. its last appearance.
his grandmother at the airport.
cheilion chianti
chaussure
n chemicalize chicanery
/ shPSsU(E)r / n
L>F>E chemistry / shDSkCn(E)rG /
footgear. F
Before entering the mosque, all are chemotherapy deception by artful subterfuge or
required to remove their chaussure. misrepresentation : trickery.
chenille The mayor was dogged by
chautauqua allegations of financial chicanery
n cheongsam and links to organized crime.
/ shEStOkwE / n
N Amer geog name / SchONTsBm / chicle
an institution of the late 19th and Chinese
early 20th centuries that combined a dress with a slit skirt and a chiclero
popular education with mandarin collar. n
entertainment, often presented Elizabeth’s cheongsam had a / chiSkler(T)P /
outdoors or in a tent. teardrop-shaped opening below the Sp
Chautauqua declined with the collar closed by a single frog a gatherer of latex from the
advent of radio. button. sapodilla tree.
Toby interviewed a chiclero for the
chauvinism chernozem journal.
n n
/ SshPvDTnizEm / / SchernEzTyOm / chieftain
F name Russ
undue especially invidious any of a group of dark-colored chiffon
partiality for a group or place to zonal soils with a deep rich humus n
which one belongs or has belonged. horizon found in regions (as the / shiSfBn /
Chauvinism is alive and well in the grasslands of central North F
school’s alumni association. America) of temperate to cool a sheer plain-weave very
climate. lightweight clothing fabric usually
chauvinistic The rich chernozem of Ukraine has given a dull soft finish.
helped it earn a reputation as “the The singer sauntered into the
chayote breadbasket of Eastern Europe.” spotlight in a dress of white chiffon.
n cheroot
/ chBSyPZG / n chiffonade
Nahuatl > Sp / shDSrVt / n
the rounded or pear-shaped fruit of Tamil / TshifESnCd /
a West Indian annual vine of the a cigar cut off square at both ends. F
cucumber family that is widely Josephine had to leave the room shredded or finely cut vegetables
cultivated as a vegetable. whenever her uncle lit up a used in soup or salad dressing.
Aaron went to three different cheroot. Lettuce and sorrel are often made
grocery stores, but none carried the into chiffonade to garnish soups.
chayote that he needed for his
recipe.
Page 57 of 349
chignon chimpanzee chivalrous
n n adj
/ SshGnTyBn / / TchimTpanSzG / / SshivElrEs /
L>F Kongo F>E
a smooth arrangement of hair worn an anthropoid ape of equatorial marked by especial courtesy and
at the back of the head especially at Africa that is smaller and more high-minded disinterested
the nape of the neck. arboreal than the gorilla. consideration to women.
To emphasize her long neck, Cecile The chimpanzee shows Chivalrous behaviors of previous
combed her hair into a tight inventiveness in making and using generations are less common in
chignon. tools. today’s atmosphere of equal rights
for women.
Chihuahua chinchilla
n n chivalry
/ chDSwB(T)wB / / chinSchilE / n
Mexican geog name Aimara or Quechua > Sp / SshivElrG /
a very small round-headed large- a small rodent the size of a large F>E
eared short-coated dog reputed to squirrel having very soft fur of a qualifications or character of the
antedate Aztec civilization. pearly gray color and native to the ideal knight of the age of chivalry
A popular fast food restaurant mountains of Peru and Chile but according to the romantic tradition
chain has used a talking now extensively bred in captivity. of courtesy, gallantry, and honor.
Chihuahua in its advertisements. The chinchilla was introduced into To the knights of the Round Table,
the United States in 1923. chivalry was of primary
chilblains importance.
n pl chinook
/ SchilTblCnz / n chlorine
E+E / shDSnUk / n
instances of redness and swelling Chehalis / SklPrTGn /
of toes, fingers, nose, or ears or a warm moist southwest wind of Gk > L + Ecf
sometimes cheeks in cold weather the Pacific coastal region from a common nonmetallic element that
accompanied by itching and Oregon northward. is used chiefly as a powerful
burning of skin. The mild temperatures are thanks bleaching, oxidizing, and
The children stayed out in the snow to a chinook that rolls over the disinfecting agent.
too long and ended up suffering Canadian Rockies. Samantha refused to swim on
from chilblains. Thursday because someone put too
chiragra much chlorine in the pool.
chime n
/ kISragrE / chocolate
chimerical Gk adj
adj pain in the hand. / SchBklDt /
/ kISmerDkEl / Aunt Molly’s chiragra keeps her Nahuatl > Sp
Gk + Ecff from writing many letters. of a warm light brown color
[Note: Could be confused with approximating the color of fresh
chimeric and chimeral.] unreal and chiropodist milk chocolate.
existing only as the product of wild Eva plans to put her chocolate
unrestrained imagination. chisel mink coat in storage until the
Many video games pit the player n animal rights activists are less
against chimerical monsters. / SchizEl / vocal.
L? > F > E
chimney a tool consisting of a metal bar with cholera
a sharpened edge at one end that is n
used for chipping, carving, or / SkBlErE /
cutting into solid material and is Gk > L
often driven by a mallet. any of several diseases of man and
With chisel and mallet, Fred domestic animals usually marked
started shaping the block of wood by severe gastrointestinal
into a model. symptoms.
Cholera is a major public health
chistera concern in many tropical countries.
Page 58 of 349
choleric chowder chronic
adj n adj
/ SkBlErik / / SchaUdE(r) / / SkrBnik /
Gk > L > F > E L>F Gk
angry, irate, wrathful. a soup or stew of seafood (as clams marked by long duration and by
The vice-principal was ill suited to or white-fleshed sea fishes) usually frequent recurrence over a long
his job; he was impatient and made with milk and containing salt time.
choleric. pork or bacon, onions, and potatoes Clarence never looked forward to
and sometimes other vegetables. eating because he was troubled
cholesterol Dean and Susan went to the beach with chronic indigestion.
to collect clams for chowder.
cholesterosis chronically
n chrematistic
/ kETlestESrPsDs / adj chronicle
Gk > ISV / TkrGmEStistik /
abnormal deposition of cholesterol Gk chronological
in the blood. of, relating to, or occupied in the
Cholesterosis can often be gaining of wealth. chrysalis
moderated by changes in diet. Chrematistic industrialists cared n
little about the living conditions of / SkrisElDs /
chonolith their employees. Sem > Gk > L
n an insect (as a butterfly or moth) in
/ SkPnETlith / chrestomathy the pupal stage of its development
Gk n in which it is enclosed in a firm
an intrusive igneous rock mass of / kreSstBmEthG / case.
wholly irregular form. Gk Bob and Sam put the chrysalis in a
Ages ago a huge chonolith formed a selection of passages from dry container and kept it in the
at the base of the volcano as it various authors compiled as an aid hope that a butterfly would later
erupted. to learning a language. emerge.
At the end of each chapter of the
choose textbook was a chrestomathy chrysanthemum
illustrating a particular rule of n
choreographer grammar. / krDSsan(t)thEmEm /
n Gk > L
/ TkPrGSBgrEfE(r) / chromatic any plant or flower of a large genus
Gk > F adj of perennial herbs that are widely
one engaging in the composing and / krPSmaZik / distributed in the Old World and
often the teaching of stage dancing. Gk that are cultivated for their showy
Martha Graham was a celebrated of or relating to color or color often double and brightly colored
choreographer of modern dance. phenomena or sensations. flower heads.
As Doris walked home during the Orlando’s chrysanthemum won
chortle shower, she admired the chromatic first prize at the flower show.
splendors of a huge rainbow.
chortling churlish
chromium adj
chorus n / SchErlish /
n / SkrPmGEm / E
/ SkPrEs / Gk > F > L difficult to work with or deal with.
Gk a blue-white metallic element Although he was a brilliant
[has homonym: koras] a group of found naturally only in conductor, Toscanini could be
dancers and usually singers combination and used especially in churlish at times.
supporting the featured players in a alloys and in electroplating.
musical comedy or revue. The car’s bumpers were plated churn
The chorus joined the principal with chromium to make them shiny. v
singers in the musical’s finale. / SchErn /
chromotrichial E
chough produce or be in violent agitation.
Landon’s stomach will churn at the
thought of public speaking.
Page 59 of 349
churrasco Ciceronian cinnabar
n adj n
/ chUSrBTskP / / TsisESrPnGEn / / SsinETbBr /
Sp L name Gk > L&F
beef broiled on a spit over an open resembling the Roman orator artificial red mercuric sulfide used
fire or grilled under an oven flame. Cicero in oratorical or literary principally as a pigment.
At the barbecue the whole family qualities. The orange color of rubber gaskets
feasted on the churrasco that Dad Beulah’s Ciceronian bombast is often created by the addition of
cooked. about Destiny and Youth impressed cinnabar.
the audience.
chutney cinnamon
n ciguatera n
/ SchEtnG / n / SsinEmEn /
Prakrit > Hindi / TsGgwESterE / ? > Gk > L > F > E
a condiment that has the Taino > Sp a culinary spice prepared from the
consistency of jam and is made of poisoning caused by eating fish or bark of certain tropical trees.
acid fruits with added raisins, dates, mollusks with flesh toxic to man. Akbar likes cinnamon in his hot
and onions and seasoned to taste Although she contracted ciquatera chocolate.
with spices and vinegar. in June, Constance could not return
Spicy or sweet chutney is to work until November. cioppino
sometimes eaten with Indian meals n
containing curry. cilantro / chESpGTnP /
n It
chymous / sDSlantrP / a dish of fish and shellfish cooked
adj L > Sp in tomato sauce and usually
/ SkImEs / leaves of coriander used as a seasoned with wine, spices, and
Gk + Ecf flavoring or garnish. herbs.
of or relating to the semifluid mass In Janet’s opinion, the best part of After an afternoon at the beach,
of partly digested food resulting the fresh salsa was the chopped Beverly stopped at a local
from the action of gastric juice. cilantro. restaurant for cioppino and coffee.
One of the coroner’s less pleasant
tasks is testing chymous material. cincture circadian
v
ciborium / SsiN(k)chE(r) / circinate
L adj
cicada girdle with or as if with a belt or / SsErsFnTCt /
n band. L
/ sDSkCdE / For the Halloween party, Evelina rounded in outline : characterized
L chose to cincture her gypsy by or having the form of a flat coil
any insect of the family costume with a spangled belt. of which the apex is the center.
Cicadidae—called also “locust.” The retracted tongue of a butterfly
The male cicada produces sound by cinematographer forms a circinate coil.
vibrating miniature “drumheads” n
on the lower surface of its / TsinEmEStBgrEfE(r) / circuit
abdomen. Gk n
a motion-picture camera operator. / SsErkDt /
cicerone Darina won the award for L>F
n outstanding cinematographer at the complete path of an electric
/ TsisESrPnG / last year’s Montreal Film Festival. current.
L > It The average electrical house
one who acts as a guide to or shows cinereous circuit carries about 30 amperes.
the sights to.
At the end of the tour, Maria
praised her cicerone as being very
knowledgeable and articulate.
Page 60 of 349
circuitous cislunar civitas
adj adj n
/ TsErSkyVEZEs / / sisSlVnE(r) / / SkGwGTtBs /
L L+L L
being a circular or winding course : of or relating to the space between a body of people constituting a
indirect, roundabout. Earth and the Moon or the Moon’s politically organized community.
As we drove through the orbit. The concept of civitas remains
mountains, the road took an The space enthusiast talked often strong in many small towns.
increasingly circuitous route. about the practicalities of setting
up a colony in the cislunar region. clairvoyant
circular
cistern clandestine
circumambulate n adj
v / SsistE(r)n / / klanSdestDn /
/ TsErkEmSambyETlCt / L>F>E L
L [has homonym: sistern] an marked by, held in, or conducted
wander about at leisure without artificial reservoir or tank for with secrecy and concealment.
definite purpose or as a result of holding or storing water or other Mike and Sally made clandestine
indirection. liquids. preparations for their mom's
Her first day in London, Connie Three weeks into the drought, the surprise birthday party.
decided to circumambulate instead farm’s cistern ran dry.
of taking a guided tour. claque
citadel n
circumlocution n / Sklak /
n / SsiZEdFl / F
/ TsErkEmlPSkyVshEn / L > It > F [has homonym: clack] an opera hat
L a fortress that commands a city with a collapsible crown.
the use of an unnecessarily large both for control and defense; As the gentleman entered the opera
number of words to express an broadly : a strong fortress. house, he doffed and flattened his
idea. The citadel had three separate claque.
The attorney’s circumlocution walls around it so that defenders
caused one of the jurors to doze off. could retreat again and again to a claret
position of safety.
circumstantial clarify
adj citation
/ TsErkEmzStanchEl / clarion
L + Ecf cite
belonging to, consisting of, claustrophobe
influenced by, or dependent on citify
conditions, facts, or events claustrophobia
accompanying others. citizen n
The report contains strong / TklOstrESfPbGE /
circumstantial evidence of citronella Gk + Gk
wrongdoing by the governor. n abnormal dread of being in closed
/ TsitrESnelE / or narrow spaces.
cirrhosis F>L Herman’s claustrophobia keeps
n a yellowish essential oil with him from flying on crowded
/ sDSrPsDs / lemonlike odor obtained from airplanes.
Gk + Lcf either of two grasses and used
[has homonym and near homonym: especially as an insect repellent. clavichord
sorosis and xerosis] a chronic Candles containing citronella were
progressive disease of the liver. kept burning on the picnic table.
The damage caused by cirrhosis is
irreversible.
Page 61 of 349
clavicle clerisy cloche
n n n
/ SklavDkEl / / SklerEsG / / klPsh /
L L>G L>F
a bone in man situated just above the well-educated or learned class : [alternate pronunciation has
the first rib on either side of the intelligentsia. homonym: closh] a woman’s small
neck and having the form of a Many believe that laws should be helmetlike hat usually with deep
narrow elongated S. readily understood by the general rounded crown and very narrow
Garth wore shoulder pads to public, not solely by an elite brim.
football practice to protect his clerisy. At the Thatchers’ wedding
clavicle. Margaret looked smashing in her
clientele white ostrich-feather cloche.
claviger n
n / TklIEnStel / clodhopper
/ SklavDjE(r) / L>F n
L a body of patrons or customers. / SklBdThBpE(r) /
one that keeps the key or keys : Bill hopes to enlarge the clientele E+E
custodian, warden. of the shoe store. a large heavy shoe.
Because she had forgotten her key, The thump of Archie’s clodhopper
Marsha needed to locate the climatology hitting the floor announced that he
claviger, Mr. Carl, to open her was going to bed.
classroom door. clinically
cloistered
clematis clinician
n n clothe
/ SklemEZDs / / klDSnishEn / v
Gk Gk > F / SklPL /
a plant of a genus of opposite- one who directs, is closely allied E
leaved slightly woody vines or with, or works in or through a put garments on.
erect herbs having elongate clinic or with clinical methods. Elizabeth Cady Stanton stressed
plumose styles. At the hospital a clinician drew a that she did not propose petitioning
The clematis is cultivated in North vial of Harry’s blood to test for the legislature to clothe every
America for its attractive flowers. diabetes. woman in male attire.
clemency clinquant cloture

n adj
/ SklemEnsG / / SkliNkEnt / cloudy
L F adj
[Note: The definition provided is glittering especially with gold / SklaUdG /
not the one most commonly decoration : showily ornate. E
associated with this word.] The theater lobby in its clinquant made or consisting of fog, mist, or
tendency to be mild and splendor cast dazzling reflections haze.
compassionate. from every gleaming surface. The mountain with its cloudy veil
Emma supposed she must say more inspired Sven’s painting.
before she would be entitled to Mr. clique
Knightley’s clemency. n clough
/ Sklik /
clepsydra F clowder
n [alternate pronunciation has
/ SklepsEdrE / homonym: cleek] a narrow cluse
Gk > L exclusive circle or group of people. n
an instrument designed to measure Sofia didn’t want to be part of the / SklVz /
time by the flow of a quantity of popular clique because she thought L>F
water. they were the most boring kids in [has homonym: clues] a narrow
For his science project Kerry school. gorge cutting transversely through
designed and built a clepsydra. an otherwise continuous ridge.
Although Brian studied the trail
map carefully, he found no mention
of the cluse that barred his way.
Page 62 of 349
cnemial coalition cocoon
adj n n
/ SnGmGEl / / TkPESlishEn / / kESkVn /
Gk + E L > F + Ecf L > Prov > F
relating to the shin or shinbone. the temporary alliance of distinct a silky or fibrous protective
Bud suffered a cnemial injury while parties, persons, or states to achieve encasement created by a larval
quarterbacking in the game last a common purpose. insect for shelter during the pupal
night. Representatives from a coalition of stage.
labor unions met with the Ricky found the cocoon of a moth
coacervate multinational corporation’s clinging to a branch of an oak tree.
n lawyers in an attempt to work out a
/ TkPESsErvDt / new contract. codeine
L n
an aggregate of colloidal droplets coaming / SkP(T)dGn /
held together by electrostatic Gk + F
attractive forces. coaration a crystalline alkaloid usually made
The chemist referred to the n from morphine but feebler in
aggregation of liquid particles in / TkPESrCshEn / action.
an emulsion as a coacervate. L The patient was given codeine to
cooperative tilling of soil as kill the pain.
coadjutor practiced by early village
n communities. codicil
/ TkPESjVZE(r) / The villagers found that coaration n
L>F>E was the most efficient system for / SkBdEsDl /
one who works together with cultivating the land. L>F
another usually in a somewhat a legal instrument made
subordinate position : assistant. coax subsequently to a will and
Offended by being called a modifying it in some respects.
“lackey,” Marcus prefers to be coccygeal Robert had his lawyer draw up a
called a “coadjutor.” codicil to clarify a few ambiguities
coagulate cochineal in his will.
v n
/ kPSagyETlCt / / SkBchETnGl / codicology
L Sp > F
curdle, clot. a red dyestuff consisting of the coelostat
Hemophiliacs lack a protein dried bodies of the cochineal insect. n
needed to help blood coagulate. Before the introduction of synthetic / SsGlETstat /
dyes, cochineal was commonly L > ISV + GK > ISV
coalesce used in textile production. a device consisting of a flat mirror
v that is turned slowly by a motor to
/ TkPESles / cochleariform reflect the Sun continuously into a
L adj fixed telescope.
unite by growth into one body. / TkPklGSa(a)rDTfOrm / Professor Merkle plans to use a
The nervous host hoped that the Gk > L + Ecf coelostat to photograph the
tight little groups of guests would shaped like a spoon. movements of planetary bodies.
coalesce into a real party. Jacques theorized that the
cochleariform bone was used in coerce
coalescence prehistoric times as a spoon.
n coercion
/ TkPESlesFn(t)s / cockatoo
L coeval
a growing together or union in one adj
body, form, or group. / kPSGvEl /
Rain is the result of the coalescence L + Ecf
of water droplets within a cloud. of the same or equal age or
antiquity.
coalification Nearly the same in mass and
brightness, the stars were thought
to be coeval.
Page 63 of 349
coffee cointise collate
n v
cogent / kwanStGz / / kESlCt /
F>E L
cogitate a scarf worn on a lady’s headdress arrange or assemble (paper, sheets,
v or as a token of favor on a knight’s or forms) according to an orderly
/ SkBjETtCt / helmet. system.
L Sir Agravaine proudly displayed Edith's favorite feature of the new
ponder on or meditate upon. the bright red cointise. copier was its ability to collate
Greta liked to cogitate on the tricks documents.
she could play on her big brother. colectomy
collateral
cogitating colic adj
n / kESlaZErEl /
cognizant / SkBlik / L>F>E
adj Gk > L > F > E [Note: The definition provided is
/ SkBgnEzEnt / acute abdominal pain in man or not the one most commonly
L>F>E animals. associated with this word.] placed
aware : perceiving with a degree of Last spring Sam’s horse had colic. or regarded as side by side :
controlled thought or observation. parallel, coordinate, or
Watching television commercials collabent corresponding in position, order,
can make viewers more cognizant adj time, or significance.
of fads and fashions. / kPSlCbEnt / Mexico’s Sierra Madre Oriental
L and Occidental mountain ranges
cognomen sunken or falling in : collapsing in are collateral.
n the middle.
/ kBgSnPmEn / Orville poked the collabent anthill college
L with a stick. n
one’s family name : surname. / SkBlij /
The cognomen “Crane” fit the collaborator L
physical attributes of the tall, lank, n [Note: The definition provided is
long-armed, and shovel-footed / kESlabETrCZE(r) / not the one most commonly
Ichabod, whose whole frame most L associated with this word.] an
loosely hung together. [has near homonym: collaborateur] organized group of persons
one that works jointly with others. engaged in a common pursuit,
cognoscitive Sir William Gilbert was Arthur having a common duty or role and
adj Sullivan’s collaborator for many sometimes a charter or special
/ kBgSnBsEZiv / operettas. rights and privileges.
L + Ecf Pope John Paul II was 58 years old
having the power of knowing. collage when the College of Cardinals
Lillian explained to her friends that n elected him to lead the Roman
her cognoscitive ability was innate, / kESlBzh / Catholic Church.
something like a sixth sense. Gk > LF + Fcf
an artistic composition of collegial
coherence fragments of printed matter and
other materials pasted on a picture colliery
cohesion surface. n
Sabrina spent weeks finishing a / SkBlyErG /
coincidental large collage of a Paris street E
adj scene. [has near homonym: colory] a coal
/ kPTinsDSdentFl / mine and the buildings connected
L with it.
characterized by the concurrence of The colliery around which the
events between which there is no village was built closed when its
causal connection. reserves of coal were exhausted.
It was purely coincidental that the
electricity went off just as the collocal
guests began to arrive for the
surprise party. colloquial
Page 64 of 349
colloquy coloratura commemorate
n n v
/ SkBlEkwG / / TkElErEStUrE / / kESmemETrCt /
L L > It L
high-level serious discussion. [Note: Could be confused with call to remembrance as by speech,
Listeners in the gallery must colorature.] the florid writing, or ceremony.
remain silent during the ornamentation in vocal music (as Every year on December seventh,
legislators’ colloquy. runs, trills, arpeggios). ceremonies are held to
Barry thinks that he would enjoy commemorate those who died
collusion opera music more if it did not during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
n contain so much coloratura.
/ kESlVzhEn / commencement
L colossal
secret agreement : secret adj commendable
cooperation for a fraudulent or / kESlBsEl / adj
deceitful purpose. Gk > L > F / kESmendEbEl /
For acting in collusion with an characterized by extremely great L
enemy agent, the nuclear scientist bulk, extent, force, strength, power, worthy of praise.
was sentenced to 20 years in or effect. Jim received several scholarships
prison. The new stadium is a colossal as a result of his commendable
building seating about a hundred academic performance.
cologne thousand people.
n commensurable
/ kESlPn / column
G name > F commensurate
a perfumed liquid composed of comedienne adj
alcohol and certain aromatic oils. n / kESmen(t)s(E)rDt /
The taxi driver sprayed expensive / kETmGdGSen / L
cologne in his cab every evening. Gk > F corresponding in size, extent,
[Note: Could be confused with amount, or degree : proportionate.
colonel comedian.] an actress who plays in The want ad stated that salary
dramas of light and amusing would be commensurate with
colonelcy character and typically with a experience.
n happy ending.
/ SkErnFlsG / Lucille Ball was America’s favorite commentary
L > It > F + Ecf comedienne during the 1950s.
the office, rank, or commission of a commercial
colonel. comestible adj
Nathan announced that he was / kESmErshEl /
being considered for a colonelcy in comet L > F + Ecf
the infantry. n from the point of view of profit :
/ SkBmDt / having profit as the primary aim.
colonnade Gk Leila was determined that her
a celestial body that consists of a jewelry store would be a
colophon fuzzy head usually surrounding a commercial success.
n bright nucleus and that has an orbit
/ SkBlEfEn / varying in eccentricity. commercialize
Gk The vaunted Kohoutek comet v
an identifying mark, emblem, or proved to be a great / kESmErshETlIz /
device used by a printer or disappointment for stargazers. L > F + Ecff
publisher sometimes on the title make use of for profit-seeking
page, cover, shelfback, or jacket. comfort purposes.
The publisher decided on the figure The Hopi denounced those who
of a Russian wolfhound as its would commercialize their
colophon. religious dances and ceremonies.
Page 65 of 349
commination commute complement
n v n
/ TkBmESnCshEn / / kESmyVt / / SkBmplEmEnt /
L L L
[Note: Could be confused with travel back and forth regularly or a finishing or consummating part,
combination.] an instance or the frequently. integral, or component.
action of announcing, warning of, For his work, Horst must commute The earrings made the perfect
or threatening punishment or daily between Philadelphia and complement to Anjali’s ensemble.
vengeance. New York.
The president ended his speech comprehend
with a severe commination against comparatively v
the rebels. adv / TkBmprDShend /
/ kEmSparEZivlG / L>E
comminute L see the nature, significance, or
nearly, approximately. meaning of.
commiseration “Well, approximately yes,” he Although he had read every word
n replied; “that is, comparatively of Moby Dick, Stu failed to
/ kETmizESrCshEn / no.” comprehend it.
L compatible
the feeling or showing of sorrow or compulsory
the expression of condolence for compelled
the wants or distresses of another. v compunction
Aunt Betsy sighed and moralized / kEmSpeld / n
with true and steady L / kEmSpEN(k)shEn /
commiseration. forced by physical necessity. L
Artie was compelled to hold his normal human regret, pity, or
commissary breath while swimming under anxiety : remorse.
water. The children showed no
commissional compunction about having eaten
compendium the entire cake before dinner.
commitment n
n / kEmSpendGEm / compunctious
/ kESmitmEnt / L
L a work treating in brief form the computernik
the consignment or sentencing to important features of a whole field
confinement (as in a prison or of knowledge or subject matter comradeliness
mental hospital). category. n
Tony’s sentence included Eileen is writing a compendium of / SkBmTradlGnDs /
commitment to the state investment information for small L > Sp > F + Ecff
penitentiary for at least five years. company shareholders. a spirit of friendly familiarity and
goodwill.
commodious compensable The comradeliness of her shipmates
adj put Mrs. Stein at ease.
/ kESmPdGEs / competency
L > F > E + Lcf + Ecf n comstockery
large or roomy and convenient. / SkBmpEZEnsG /
Leo and his family rented a modest L concatenate
but commodious villa in Spain. the quality or state of being v
functionally adequate. / kBnSkaZETnCt /
commorancy The prospective student questioned L
the competency of the professor. link together : unite in a series or
communicate chain.
competently The professor told the class to write
a program that would concatenate
compilation two or more files.
conceit
conceivable
Page 66 of 349
conceivably conch concinnity
n n
concentrate / SkBNk / / kEnSsinEZG /
v Gk > L L
/ SkBn(t)sEnTtrCt / [has homonym: conk] any of harmony or fitness in the
L + Ecf various large spiral-shelled marine adaptation of parts to a whole or to
bring all one’s powers, faculties, or gastropod mollusks. each other.
activities to bear : focus. Herbert recoiled when he saw After reading through the writer’s
Anthony couldn’t concentrate on conch on the menu of the first draft, the editor praised the
the reading material because he Caribbean restaurant. writer for her consistency and
was sick. concinnity of style.
conchiform
concentric adj conclamant
adj / SkBNkETfOrm /
/ kEnSsentrik / Gk > L > ISV concoct
L shell-shaped. v
having a common center (as circles Mom keeps her jewelry in a / kEnSkBkt /
one within another). conchiform box. L
Shane stared at the concentric put together : devise, fabricate.
circles of the dart board for so long conchitic Mom overheard the boys concoct a
that he seemed to be hypnotized. adj story to explain the broken window.
/ kBNSkiZik /
concept Gk concoction
n composed of shells.
/ SkBnTsept / The professor brought in a piece of concomitant
L conchitic limestone so students adj
thought, idea, notion. could examine the mollusk shells in / kEnSkBmEZEnt /
Julie’s concept of an entertaining it. L
movie was not the same as her occurring along with or at the same
younger brother’s. concierge time as and with or without causal
n relationship.
concertina / kPMSsyerzh / Mr. Simmons noted that his son’s
L>F poor grades in algebra were
concerto an attendant at the entrance of a concomitant with the start of the
n building : doorkeeper. basketball season.
/ kEnScherZ(T)P / The concierge took note of the
L > It mysterious man’s comings and concordat
a virtuoso piece for solo instrument goings at the hotel. n
or voice and orchestra that usually / kEnSkOrTdat /
has three contrasting movements. conciergerie L>F
A violin concerto by Vivaldi a compact between a national
concluded the orchestra’s program. conciliate government and a religious group
v establishing terms of agreement
concessible / kEnSsilGTCt / concerning matters of mutual
L interest.
concession win over from a state of hostility or Bonaparte and Pope Pius VII
n distrust : appease. signed a concordat that the state of
/ kEnSseshEn / The new king hoped to conciliate France should protect and
L his subjects by doing them all the acknowledge the Roman Catholic
the admitting of a point claimed in good in his power. Church.
argument; especially : the voluntary
yielding of a disputable contention. concrescence
Concession was out of the question,
but it was time to appear to forget
that they had ever quarreled.
concessionary
Page 67 of 349
concurrence condor confluence
n n n
/ kEnSkErEn(t)s / / SkBnTdO(E)r / / SkBnTflVEn(t)s /
L Quechua > Sp L
[has homonym: concurrents] a very large American vulture the place of meeting of two
agreement in opinion. having the head and neck bare and streams.
Frank agreed to it, but with so being one of the largest and most Martina agreed to meet Lynn at the
quiet a “Yes,” as inclined Emma powerful of flying birds. confluence of Rogers Creek and the
almost to doubt his real Of all the birds of prey at the zoo, Little Red River.
concurrence. the Andean condor is Alison’s
favorite. confusion
concussion
n conductor conga
/ kEnSkEshEn / n
L conduit / SkBNgE /
a smart or hard knock, blow, or n African geog name
collision; also : the shock of such a / SkBn(T)dVDt / a Cuban dance of African origin
blow. F>E involving three steps followed by a
When Amy slipped on the ice she a natural or artificial channel kick and performed by a group in
nearly suffered a concussion. through which water or other fluid single file.
passes or is conveyed. When he was a child, Jimmy loved
condemn Grandfather showed Logan the to dance the conga.
v conduit that irrigated his large
/ kEnSdem / garden. congeal
L
[has near homonym: contemn] conferential congenial
pronounce as ill-advised, adj
reprehensible, wrong, or evil. confetti / kEnSjGnyEl /
Often custom justifies an action n pl L
that years later it will condemn. / kEnSfeZG / characterized by friendly
L > It sociability.
condescended tiny colored paper disks or paper Paul and Linda appreciated the
v streamers so made as to scatter restaurant’s congenial atmosphere.
/ TkBndDSsendDd / readily when thrown.
L > F > E + Ecf Ticker tape and confetti swirled congenital
stooped or bent to action or speech like snow over the crowded street.
less formal or dignified than is conglobe
customary in one’s social rank. confiscate v
The rajah condescended to seat v / kEnSglPb /
himself on a rug under the tree. / SkBnfDTskCt / L
L form into a ball.
condign seize by or as if by public authority. Time-lapse photos showed how
After a two-hour wait, the border clouds conglobe.
condiment guard decided not to confiscate
n Brenda’s antique necklace. conglomerate
/ SkBndEmEnt / n
L>F>E conflagration / kEnSglBm(E)rDt /
something usually pungent, acid, n L
salty, or spicy added to or served / TkBnflESgrCshEn / a mixture gathered from various
with food to enhance its flavor or to L sources : a composite mass.
give added flavor : seasoning. a large disastrous fire involving Father called his specialty “Irish
Mustard is the condiment usually numerous buildings. stew,” but it was really more like a
served on hot pastrami sandwiches. Sixty fire trucks were called in to conglomerate of indeterminate
battle the conflagration. substances.
condolence
congruent
Page 68 of 349
coniferous connubial consciousness
adj adj n
/ kPSnif(E)rEs / / kESn(y)VbGEl / / SkBnchEsnEs /
(Gk + L) > L + Ecf L L + Ecf
bearing cones. of or relating to marriage or the intuitively perceived knowledge of
A covering of coniferous trees marriage state. something in one’s inner self.
keeps some mountains green all Susan and Stuart spent their With a sort of sneering
winter. honeymoon in a state of connubial consciousness, Tyler admitted that
contentment. he had nothing to say that would be
conjugal entertaining to anyone.
conqueror
conjunctiva consecrate
conquian v
Connecticut / SkBnsDTkrCt /
adj conquistador L
/ kESneZDkDt / n make or declare sacred or holy.
Mohican? > American geog name / kOnSk(w)GstETdO(E)r / The bishop will consecrate the new
of or from the state of Connecticut. L > Sp chapel next Sunday.
Ichabod Crane is a famous conqueror; specifically : any one of
character of Connecticut lore. the leaders in the Spanish conquest consecutive
of America, especially of Mexico
connived and Peru, in the 16th century. consenescence
Mr. Sanchez found the helmet of a
connivery conquistador deep in the canyon. consensus
n n
/ kESnIv(E)rG / consanguinity / kEnSsen(t)sEs /
L + Ecf n L
the practice of cooperating secretly, / TkBnsaNSgwinEZG / collective opinion : the judgment
especially in a wrongful act. L arrived at by most of those
Allen suspects Brenda of connivery the quality or state of being related concerned.
in the mysterious sale of the by blood. The Booster Club’s consensus was
mansion. Consanguinity has historically that popcorn would sell better than
been of great importance in cotton candy.
connoisseur determining who sits on the various
n thrones of Europe. consentaneous
/ TkBnESsU(E)r /
L>F conscience conservatory
one who is an expert in a subject; n
especially : one who understands / SkBnchEn(t)s / considerable
the details, technique, or principles L
of an art and is competent to act as the sense of right or wrong within consignment
a critical judge. the individual.
The connoisseur who judged the In this country everyone has a right consistory
culinary creations is a chef at a to exercise individual conscience
five-star restaurant. and judgment on all matters of consomme
public interest.
connote consortium
v conscientious n
/ kESnPt / adj / kEnSsOrsh(G)Em /
L / TkBnchGSenchEs / L
arouse as an inseparably associated L [has near homonym: consortion]
idea or feeling : imply, suggest. governed by the dictates of the an organization of persons having a
Eli wonders if sending a dozen sense of right or wrong : honest, common interest.
long-stemmed roses to Gretchen scrupulous. Several organizations joined the
might connote what he finds Janice was very conscientious consortium that fosters inclusion of
difficult to say. about telling the truth. individuals with disabilities in all
aspects of society.
Page 69 of 349
conspiracy consummate continuum
n adj
/ kEnzSpirEsG / / SkBn(t)sEmDt / contour
L L
an illegal, treasonable, or of the very highest or finest : contraband
treacherous plan to harm or destroy supremely excellent. n
another person, group, or entity. Marie was worried that her son / SkBntrETband /
The commissioner charged that the would ruin the party, but he L > It
entire industry was in conspiracy to behaved like a consummate goods or merchandise the
keep out competition. gentleman. importation, exportation, or
sometimes possession of which is
constabulary contagious forbidden.
n On the teacher’s desk sat the
/ kEnzStabyETlerG / container contraband taken from students
L during the day.
a body of policemen (as of a contemplate
particular town, district, country). v contrabass
The local constabulary was out in / SkBntEmTplCt /
force at the Halloween celebration. L contrapuntal
carefully and intently think about adj
constellation something : ponder. / TkBntrESpEntFl /
n The board of directors will It
/ TkBnztESlCshEn / contemplate the proposal from the of, relating to, or according to the
L rival company. rules of melodic part writing.
any one of 88 arbitrary J. S. Bach was a master of
configurations of stars or an area of contemporaneous contrapuntal melody.
the celestial sphere covering one of
these configurations. contemptible contrariety
Rani found it difficult to see a scale adj n
in the constellation Libra. / kEnStem(p)tEbEl / / TkBntrESrIEZG /
L L
constituent meriting scorn and condemnation the quality or state of being in
as paltry, mean, base, or vile. opposition or disagreement.
constitution Though most people viewed the Amanda was becoming impatient
accused man as a contemptible with her two-year-old son’s
constrain being, Sister Agatha pitied him and contrariety.
tried to reach out to him.
construe contretemps
v contiguous n
/ kEnzStrV / adj / kPMtrEtBM /
L>E / kEnStigyEwEs / F+L>F
explain the sense or intention of L an inopportune embarrassing
often to one’s own satisfaction or touching or connected throughout. occurrence : mishap, mischance.
according to or in conformity with Mr. Wallace understands but Jeremy moved steadily from
a given set of circumstances. resents higher shipping costs for blunder to contretemps to
Paul tried to construe the situation U.S. customers living in states embarrassment.
in the best possible light. outside the contiguous 48.
contrition
consuetude contingencies n
n n pl / kEnStrishEn /
/ SkBn(t)swDTt(y)Vd / / kEnStinjEnsGz / L
L L consciousness of guilt or sin giving
social usage : custom, habit. possible future events or conditions rise to humility and sorrow.
The practice of men opening doors or unforeseen occurrences that may In the warmth of true contrition she
for women has fallen from necessitate special measures. would call upon Miss Bates the
consuetude. Setting the date of the family very next morning, and it should be
reunion involved considering the the beginning, on her side, of a
contingencies and conveniences of regular, equal, kindly relationship.
about 100 people.
Page 70 of 349
controversy convection convivially
n n adv
/ SkBntrETvErsG / / kEnSvekshEn / / kEnSvivGElG /
L L L + Ecf
a difference marked especially by the circulatory motion that occurs in a manner that is fond of good
the expression of opposing views : in a fluid at a nonuniform company and festivity.
dispute. temperature owing to the variation Though the hostess felt ill and
Most television talk shows seem of its density and the action of wanted to leave the party, she
more interested in creating gravity. behaved convivially.
controversy than in trying to In the tropics, strong convection
resolve it. draws warm air high into the sky. convolute
contumacious convene convoy
contumacy convenience coordinate

n adj
/ kEnSt(y)VmEsG / convergent / kPSOrd(F)nDt /
L>E adj L
stubborn resistance to authority; / kEnSvErjEnt / equal in rank, quality, or
specifically : willful contempt of L significance.
court. tending to move toward one point The United States attempts to keep
In the Middle Ages contumacy or each other. the branches of government
could be punished by The crowds leaving the stadium coordinate.
excommunication and the loss of became convergent on their way to
civil rights. the subway entrance. coossify
contusion conversant Copernican

n adj adj
/ kEnSt(y)VzhEn / / kEnSvErsFnt / / kPSpErnDkEn /
L L Pol name
a bruise caused by external familiar or acquainted by use or of, relating to, or being the
violence. study : well-informed. astronomic system of Copernicus in
The contusion on Wayne’s shoulder Sabendra is conversant in the latest which the Sun is taken as the center
began to fade nine days after his movements in European art. of the planets.
accident. The Copernican view of the solar
convertible system was originally regarded as
conundrums n heretical.
n pl / kEnSvErZEbEl /
/ kESnEndrEmz / L copious
unknown an automobile having a top that adj
riddles based on some fanciful or may be folded back, lowered, or / SkPpGEs /
fantastic resemblance between removed. L
things quite unlike and forming a Thelma and Louise enjoyed present in large quantity : plentiful,
puzzling question whose answer is cruising the highway in Louise’s abundant, lavish.
or involves a pun. convertible. Patrick took copious notes during
Mr. Elton was invited to contribute the lecture.
any really good conundrums to conveyance
Emma’s collection of riddles of copyright
every sort. convivial
adj coquetry
convalescence / kEnSvivGEl / n
L / SkPkDtrG /
fond of good company and F
festivity. effort or action intended to attract
The convivial lodge owners enjoyed admiration, gallantry, or affection
socializing with their guests. without responsive feeling.
The princess used coquetry as a
tool as a carpenter uses a hammer.
Page 71 of 349
coquettishly cornice coronary
n adj
coracle / SkOrnDs / / SkOrETnerG /
n Gk > L > It > F L
/ SkOrEkEl / the typically molded and projecting of or involving the blood vessels of
W horizontal member that crowns an the heart; broadly : of or relating to
a small boat made by covering a architectural composition. the heart.
wicker frame with hide or leather. Here and there among the ruins of A blockage in a coronary artery
Ted rowed an old coracle to the the great palace, a cornice or part caused Tom’s heart attack.
small island in the lake. of a column remained intact.
coroner
cordially corniculate n
adj / SkOrEnE(r) /
cordillera / kO(r)SnikyElDt / L > F > AF > E
n L a public officer whose principal
/ TkO(r)dFlSerE / having horns or small horn-shaped duty is to inquire into the cause of
L > Sp processes. any death which there is reason to
a group of mountain ranges In some species of animals, only suppose is not due to natural
forming a mountain system of great the males are corniculate. causes.
linear extent. The job of coroner combines
The Andean cordillera extends cornucopia elements of medicine and detective
along the west coast of South n work.
America. / TkO(r)n(y)ESkPpGE /
L coronet
corduroy a curved goat’s horn from the n
n mouth of which fruit and ears of / TkOrESnet /
/ SkO(r)dETrOi / corn overflow, emblematic of Gk > L > F
F > E name abundance—called also “horn of a small or lesser crown usually
a cut-pile fabric with vertical ribs plenty.” signifying a high rank below that of
or wales, usually made of cotton. Robert placed various kinds of rolls a sovereign.
His worn trousers of corduroy were in the basket shaped like a The princess happily let her young
three inches too short. cornucopia and set it in the center cousin try on the coronet.
of the table.
coriander corporeal
n corollary adj
/ TkPrGSandE(r) / n / kO(r)SpPrGEl /
L / SkOrETlerG / L
an Old World herb whose ripened L having, consisting of, or relating to
dried fruit is used for flavoring a proposition that follows upon one a physical material body : not
especially of pickles, curries, just demonstrated and that requires spiritual.
confectioneries, and liquor. no additional proof. It’s very difficult for Mrs.
Jane almost always uses coriander After proving the theorem, Mr. O’Connor to think in a corporeal
to season her stew. Barnes showed how the corollary way.
logically followed.
cormorant corpulent
n coronach adj
/ SkOrm(E)rEnt / n / SkO(r)pyElEnt /
L>F>E / SkOrEnEk / L
any of various dark-colored web- ScGael&IrGael having a large bulky body.
footed seabirds. a lamentation for the dead as sung Mike and Edie laughed at the
In parts of eastern Asia the or played on the bagpipes in corpulent gorilla as it stuffed
cormorant is domesticated by Scotland and Ireland : dirge. bananas into its mouth.
fishermen. The mournful coronach could be
heard throughout the valley.
cornea
Page 72 of 349
corpuscle cortisone coterie
n n
/ SkO(r)TpEsEl / coruscate / SkPZErG /
L v F
a living cell that is somewhat / SkOrETskCt / an intimate often exclusive group
isolated and not aggregated into L of persons having a binding
continuous tissues. gleam with intermittent flashes : common interest or purpose :
In the science fiction movie, a white glitter, sparkle. clique.
corpuscle attacked the tiny ship as The flickering light from Trudy’s Phyllis and her coterie arrived
it traveled through the lantern made the cave walls fashionably late for the gallery
bloodstream. coruscate. opening.
corral corybantic coterminous

v adj
/ kESral / / TkOrDSbantik / cotyledon
L > Sp Gk n
[has homonym: chorale] round up like or in the spirit of the attendants / TkBZFlSGdFn /
and drive (livestock) into a pen. or priests of the nature goddess Gk > L
With the help of his dog, Jerry Cybele noted for wildly emotional the first leaf or one of the first pair
managed to corral the herd. processions and rites; specifically : or whorl of leaves developed by the
wild, frenzied. embryo in seed plants and in ferns
corralled At the rock concert many fans and related plants.
engaged in corybantic dancing. Mr. Pittman drew a fern cotyledon
correspond on the blackboard.
v corymb
/ TkOrESspBnd / n couchant
L / SkOTrim(b) / adj
communicate with a person by Gk > L > F / SkaUchEnt /
exchange of letters. a flower cluster in which the flower F
Mason and his friends correspond stalks arise at different levels on the lying down with the head up.
frequently by e-mail. main axis and reach about the same The coat of arms depicted a
height, forming a somewhat flat- couchant lion.
corridor topped cluster.
Each corymb of Queen Anne’s lace cough
corroborate by the porch has a bumblebee on it.
v coulisse
/ kESrBbETrCt / cosmogenesis n
L n / kVSlGs /
provide evidence of the truth of : / TkBzmPSjenEsDs / F
confirm. Gk a side scene of the stage in a theater
Without a witness to corroborate a part of the science of astronomy or the space between the side
his alibi, Zorba remained the chief that deals with the origin and scenes.
suspect in the robbery case. development of the universe. The path depicted in the coulisse
Contrary to his expectations, led the eyes to the center stage.
corrugated Lionel’s study of cosmogenesis
adj made him more religious. couloir
/ SkOrETgCtDd / n
L cosmopolite / kVlSwBr /
having a ridged or furrowed n L>F
surface. / kBzSmBpETlIt / a deep gorge.
The corrugated sand dune looked Gk Lance hiked along the stream at the
like a work of art. one that is at home in every bottom of the couloir.
country.
corruptible Although she considered herself a
cosmopolite, Sharon still couldn’t
corsage get used to driving on the left side
of the road.
corsair
Page 73 of 349
counsel courier coyote
n n n
/ SkaUn(t)sEl / / SkUrGE(r) / / kISPZ(T)G /
L>F>E L > It > F Nahuatl > Sp
[has homonym: council] advice, [has homonym: currier] one who a small wolf native to the western
direction. carries messages, news, or part of North America and well
Mr. Knightley shared unpleasant information either with urgent haste established northward in Alaska
truths with Emma and proved or in accordance with a regular and eastward at least as far as New
himself her friend by very faithful schedule. York state.
counsel. Jaime worked as a courier after The lone male coyote kept to the
school to earn money for a new edges of the pack for many days
countenance car. before being accepted into the
n group.
/ SkaUnt(F)nEn(t)s / courlan
L>F>E cozened
the expressive appearance of one’s courteously v
face : look, expression. / SkEzFnd /
The department store Santa’s cousin L > It
countenance set Loretta at ease. obtained by artful wheedling or
couture tricky dishonesty.
counterfeit n The crooked lawyer cozened the
/ kVStU(E)r / life’s savings of several of his
countermand L>F clients.
the business of designing, making,
countervail and selling fashionable expensive craniectomy
v custom-made women’s clothing.
/ SkaUntErTvCl / At the Paris fashion shows Carolyn craquelure
L>F>E talked to several young designers
oppose or exert force against : who were just starting out in crassamentum
counteract. couture.
Miles built a low wall around his credential
sloping garden to countervail covenant
erosion. n credenza
/ SkEvEnEnt / n
countian L>F>E / krDSdenzE /
an agreement that is usually formal, L > It
coup solemn, and intended as binding. a sideboard, buffet, or bookcase
n The book of Genesis describes without legs whose base rests flat
/ SkV / Noah’s covenant with God that on the floor.
F saved his family from the Great Robin’s CDs are on the second
a sudden decisive exercise of Flood. shelf of the credenza.
localized or concentrated force
unseating the personnel of a covey credulity
government. n n
The dictator was ousted by a / SkEvG / / crDSd(y)VlEZG /
military coup. L>F>E L
a small flock or number of birds of belief or readiness of belief
coupon the same kind—used typically of especially on slight or uncertain
partridges and certain related birds. evidence.
The hunter aimed at the covey of Marco’s personality was a strange
quail flying over the pasture. mixture of shrewdness and
credulity.
Page 74 of 349
creekology crescendo cribral
n n adj
/ krGSkBlEjG / / krDSshen(T)dP / / SkribrEl /
ON > E + Gk L > It L
any method of searching for oil the peak of a gradual increase (as in of or relating to a sieve : perforated.
based on a limited knowledge of physical or emotional force or The mouths of certain whales
geology and practiced especially by intensity). contain a cribral structure for
wildcat prospectors. As soon as his boat sailed out of the collecting food.
Doug, who was known for his nose harbor, Angus realized that the
for oil, attributed his success to wind was nearing a crescendo. cricetid
creekology. n
crescent / krDSsGZDd /
creel n Slav > L
/ SkresFnt / any of a family of small rodents
crenate L>F>E including lemmings, voles, and
adj the shape or figure defined by a hamsters.
/ SkrGTnCt / convex and a concave edge. The hamster is an example of a
L The moon’s silvery crescent cricetid that is kept as a pet.
having the margin cut into rounded disappeared as the eclipse reached
scallops. totality. crimson
The crenate leaves on Freda’s n
specimen gave her a clue as to its crescive / SkrimzEn /
classification. adj Ar > Sp > E
/ Skresiv / any of several deep or vivid reds or
creophagy L purplish reds of rather indefinite
n increasing, growing. range.
/ krGSBfEjG / The crescive vines traveled up the The sun was dropping slowly from
Gk trellis. sight, and stripes of purple and
the use of flesh as food. orange and crimson and gold
After visiting a slaughterhouse, crescograph reached upward from the distant
Stephanie was repulsed by n hills.
creophagy and became a / SkreskETgraf /
vegetarian. L + Ecf + Gk crinoline
an instrument for making n
crepitant perceptible the growth of plants. / SkrinFlDn /
adj The crescograph can magnify small L > It > F
/ SkrepEZEnt / plant movements as much as ten a full stiff skirt or underskirt.
L million times. The crinoline that Andrea wore in
having or making a crackling sound the pageant made her knees itch.
: crackling. cretonne
The boys rolled and tumbled in the criophore
pile of crepitant leaves. crewelwork
crocheting
crepuscular cribbage v
adj n / krPSshCiN /
/ krDSpEsk(y)ElE(r) / / Skribij / F + Ecf
L + Ecf E working with needlework
active in the twilight. a card game for two and sometimes consisting of the interlocking of
Darnel blurted out “firefly” when three or four players each of whom looped stitches formed with a
the teacher asked for an example of is dealt six cards one or two of single thread and a hooked needle.
a crepuscular insect. which are discarded before play to Marie sat nearby crocheting and
form an extra hand for the dealer. tried to take a friendly interest in
Kathy and her cousins are the game.
ferociously competitive when they
play cribbage.
Page 75 of 349
cromlech croupier Crusade
n n n
/ SkrBmTlek / / SkrVpGTC / / krVSsCd /
W F F
a circle of monoliths usually an employee of a gambling casino an expedition undertaken for a
enclosing a dolmen or mound. who watches, collects, and pays declared religious purpose.
Inspired by their study of bets and assists the dealer in charge The first Crusade to reclaim
Stonehenge, Mr. Akala’s fifth- of the table. Jerusalem for Christians began in
grade class built a cromlech on the The croupier tossed two more $100 1096.
playground. chips onto Daphne’s growing pile.
crustacean
cronyism croustade n
n n / TkrESstCshEn /
/ SkrPnGTizEm / / krVSstBd / L
Gk + Ecf Prov > F an animal belonging to a large class
partiality to familiar friends a crisp shell (as of toasted or fried of Arthropoda comprising the
especially as evidenced in the bread) in which to serve food. majority of the marine or
appointing of political hangers-on Louise didn’t know whether or not freshwater arthropods (as lobsters,
to office without due regard for she was supposed to eat the shrimps, crabs, and barnacles).
their qualifications. croustade in which her salad was Our team’s mascot is Crusty the
When the mayor appointed his best served. Crustacean, a ten-pound Maine
friend head of the police lobster.
department, he was accused of crucial
cronyism. cryology
crucible n
croquet n / krISBlEjG /
n / SkrVsEbEl / Gk
/ krPSkC / L the study of snow and ice.
F a vessel or melting pot that is used In cryology, students learn how
a game in which players drive for melting and calcining a glaciers grow, shrink, advance, and
wooden balls with mallets through substance (as metal and ore) which retreat.
a series of wickets set out on a lawn requires a high degree of heat.
in a particular order. Clyde began the experiment by cryophilic
Erica and her friends played dumping the collected samples into
croquet in the churchyard. a crucible. cryophorus
n
crotchety cruciferous / TkrISBfErEs /
adj adj Gk > L
/ SkrBchEZG / / krVSsif(E)rEs / an instrument that illustrates the
F>E L + Ecff freezing of water by its own
subject to whims, crankiness, or ill belonging to or having the evaporation.
temper. characteristics of the mustards or The cryophorus was made of glass
Not getting enough sleep usually related plants. in the form of a tube connecting
makes Trudy crotchety in the Cruciferous vegetables are an two globes partially filled with
morning. excellent source of beta carotene. liquid.
croup cruller cryptic

n n
/ SkrVp / / SkrElE(r) /
imit D
a spasmodic laryngitis in infants a small sweet cake made of a rich
and children characterized by egg batter formed into twisted
episodes of difficult breathing and strips and fried brown in deep fat.
hoarse cough. Olive couldn’t decide whether to
Mrs. Dowling hoped Everett’s sore order a cruller or an éclair with
throat wouldn’t develop into croup. her coffee.
Page 76 of 349
cryptographer cucaracha culgee
n n n
/ kripStBgrEfE(r) / / TkVkESrBchE / / SkElTgG /
Gk Mexican song Per > Hindi
one that practices the art of a Mexican ballroom and nightclub a jeweled plume worn in India on
preparing or reading messages in a dance. the turban.
form intended to prevent their Determined to win the state Professor Singh happily loaned his
being read by those not privy to ballroom dance title, Joan and grandfather’s culgee to the
secrets of the form. Marlon practiced their cucaracha museum.
An inveterate cryptographer, Rico for weeks.
enjoys searching ordinary writing culinary
samples for hidden messages. cuchifrito adj
n / SkElETnerG /
cryptonym / TkVchiSfrGZP / L
n Sp of or relating to the kitchen or
/ SkriptETnim / a deep-fried cube of pork. cookery.
Gk When Lane wasn’t looking, The early colonists used herbs for
a secret name. Stephanie popped a cuchifrito into both culinary and medicinal
Each person in our club was given the dog’s mouth. purposes.
a cryptonym known only to the
other members. cuckoo culminant
n adj
crystal / SkV(T)kV / / SkElmEnEnt /
adj E imitative L
/ SkristFl / [has homonym: kuku] a familiar being at greatest altitude or on the
Gk European bird that is noted for its meridian.
consisting of or resembling quartz characteristic two-syllabled whistle The Sun casts the shortest shadows
that is transparent or nearly so and and for its habit of laying its eggs when it is culminant.
that is either colorless or only in the nests of other birds for them
slightly tinged. to hatch. culotte
Once inside, they hurried down a The cuckoo in the aviary sounded
long hallway, which glittered with just like Grandmother’s clock. culpable
crystal chandeliers. adj
cucurbit / SkElpEbEl /
crystosphene n L
n / kyVSkErbDt / meriting condemnation or censure
/ SkristETsfGn / L>F>E especially as criminal or as
Gk (Note: Dictionary designates as conducive to accident, loss, or
a buried sheet of ice under the attributive.) a many-seeded fleshy disaster.
tundra of North America formed by fruit plant with a hard rind (such as The property owner was guilty of
the freezing of spring water. squashes, pumpkins, and certain culpable negligence in the accident
The geologist measured the gourds). involving an uncovered manhole.
thickness of the crystosphene. The cucurbit is probably put to a
wider variety of uses than is any culprit
cubic other fruit family. n
adj / SkElprDt /
/ SkyVbik / cudgel L > AF
Gk > L > F n one who is guilty of a crime or
relating to a crystal form that / SkEjEl / other wrongdoing.
consists of six similar, mutually E The detectives devised a plan to
perpendicular faces. a short heavy stick used as an capture the culprit.
Gold crystallizes in a cubic instrument for punishment or a
structure with a density of 19.4 weapon.
grams per cubic centimeter. A nightstick is one kind of cudgel.
cuirass
Page 77 of 349
cultivation cuneiform current
n adj adj
/ TkEltESvCshEn / / kyVSnGDTfOrm / / SkErEnt /
L L+L L
the art or process of farming. written in characters composed of [has homonyms: courant, currant]
Frigid weather conditions and strokes having the form of a wedge presently elapsing.
barren soil make cultivation of or arrowhead. In the current fiscal year
tundra almost impossible. The cuneiform Code of Hammurabi Cornucopia College enjoys a slight
is the most complete record of budget surplus.
culturati ancient Babylonian law in
n pl existence. curriculum
/ TkElchESrBZ(T)G / n
Gk + Lcf cupboard / kESrikyElEm /
people intensely interested in the L
artistic and intellectual aspects or cupressineous the whole body of courses offered
content of human activity. adj by an educational institution or one
The scheduled performance by / Tk(y)VprESsinGEs / of its branches.
“The Three Tenors” generated Gk > L + Ecf The school is planning to add Latin
excitement among the city’s relating to or resembling the to its curriculum next year.
culturati. cypress.
The wood of cupressineous trees is cursory
cumbersome usually light, moderately hard, and
adj very durable. curtain
/ SkEmbE(r)sEm / n
F > E + Ecf curator / SkErtFn /
of an excessive size, shape, or n L>F>E
length : unwieldy. / kyESrCZE(r) / the screen separating the stage from
Emrick dragged his cumbersome L the auditorium of a theater.
duffel bag by its strap. one in charge of the exhibits, The law states that the theater
research activities, and personnel of curtain must be made of fireproof
cumbrous a museum, zoo, or other place of material.
adj exhibit.
/ SkEmbrEs / Eric interviewed the curator of curtilage
E marine mammals at the aquarium. n
giving trouble : vexatious. / SkErZFlij /
A swarm of cumbrous gnats curiousness F>E
followed the hikers all day long. n a yard, courtyard, or other piece of
/ SkyUrGEsnDs / ground included within a fence
cummerbund L > F > E + Ecf surrounding a dwelling house.
n the quality of being inquisitive. The police searched the house and
/ SkEmE(r)TbEnd / Dickon’s round eyes were full of the curtilage for any clues relating
Per > Hindi eager curiousness but he said not a to the robbery.
a waistband worn in place of a vest word.
with men’s dress clothes. curvature
The bride wanted the groom’s curlew n
cummerbund to match the pale pink / SkErvETchU(E)r /
of her flowers. curliewurly L
the act or state of deviating from a
cumulative curmudgeon straight line or course typically
n with a rounded gradual effect.
/ (T)kErSmEjEn / The curvature of the brick path
unknown gave the garden a pleasing
a crusty, ill-tempered, or difficult informality.
and often elderly person.
Fiona’s dad called her grandfather
a “cantankerous old curmudgeon.”
Page 78 of 349
custard cybernetics cylinder
n n pl
/ SkEstE(r)d / / TsIbE(r)SneZiks / cymbals
L > Prov > E Gk
a sweetened mixture of milk and the comparative study of the cynegetics
eggs that is baked, boiled, or automatic control system formed n pl
frozen. by the nervous system and brain / TsinDSjeZiks /
Lemon custard is Harold’s favorite and by mechanical-electrical Gk
dessert. communication systems and the art of hunting.
devices (as computers or Mrs. White began her talk about
custody thermostats). cynegetics with a recording of
n Bertha’s new robotics software melodies played on hunting horns.
/ SkEstEdG / promised to revolutionize
L>E cybernetics. cynology
charge or control (as of a suspect) n
exercised by a person or an cyclical / sDSnBlEjG /
authority. adj Gk
The suspect was kept in police / SsIklDkEl / [has homonym: sinology]
custody until she provided an Gk scientific study of the dog
incontrovertible alibi. of, relating to, or belonging to a especially in respect to its natural
regularly recurring succession of history.
cutaneous events or phenomena. Having a coyote as a childhood pet
adj Mr. Ramirez explained the cyclical gave Rick an early interest in
/ kyVStCnGEs / phases of the Moon to the science cynology.
L class today.
of or relating to the skin. cynophilist
Cutaneous sensation includes cyclogenesis n
feeling cold, heat, contact, and n / sDSnBfElDst /
pain. / TsI(T)klPSjenEsDs / Gk
Gk [Note: Could be confused with
cuticle the process of development or form of sinophil/sinophile.] a dog
n intensification of a rotating storm fancier : one that is favorably
/ SkyVZDkEl / system. disposed toward dogs.
L Satellites have greatly improved the Although Leon considered himself
an external membranous or monitoring of cyclogenesis. a cynophilist, he did not trust the
hardened noncellular investment pit bull terrier.
secreted by the outer surface of the cyclonic
body (as in arthropods). adj cynosure
Because expansion cannot occur in / sISklBnik / n
the chitinous cuticle, the growing Gk / SsInETshU(E)r /
insect must periodically shed its of, relating to, or having the Gk
covering. characteristics of a rotating storm. a center of attraction or interest.
Cyclonic disturbances known as The student union, with its billiard
cyanosis hurricanes usually occur during the tables, bowling alley, and snack
n summer and fall. bar, is a cynosure for freshmen
/ TsIESnPsDs / during orientation week.
Gk cycloserine
a bluish or purplish discoloration Cytherean
(as of skin) due to deficient cygnet adj
oxygenation of the blood. n / TsithESrGEn /
Cyanosis may result from / SsignDt / Gk > L + Ecf
pneumonia, asphyxiation, heart Gk > L > F > E of or relating to the goddess Venus
failure, or heart anomalies. a young swan. or to the planet Venus.
Six-year-old Abby, openly The Cytherean atmosphere has a
contemptuous of the fairy tale, high concentration of sulfuric acid.
patiently explained to her mother
that there’s no way an ugly cytocidal
duckling can turn into a swan—
only a cygnet can.
Page 79 of 349
cytology daedal dalliance
n adj
/ sIStBlEjG / / SdGdFl / dallied
Gk + Gk Gk
[has homonym: sitology] the ingeniously formed or working : damask
branch of biology concerned with like a maze : intricate.
the study of cells as vital units with The children’s quiz show led its Damoclean
reference to their structure, contestants through a daedal adj
function, multiplication, pathology, journey of stunts and questions. / TdamESklGEn /
and life history. Gk name + Ecf
For differentiating between benign daffodil involving imminent danger.
and malignant lesions, cytology Retrieving the car keys from the
offers a more precise method of daffodils piranha tank was a Damoclean
diagnosis than does the use of X n pl task indeed.
rays. / SdafETdilz /
D+L>F>D dandelion
dachshund plants having flowers that have a
n large corona elongated into a dangerous
/ SdBksThUnt / trumpet.
G+G These flowers blooming in the snow dangle
a small dog of a breed of German are daffodils and snowdrops.
origin having long drooping ears, danseuse
commonly a short sleek coat, and daguerreotype n
the legs short in comparison with / dBMSsE(r)z /
the body length. dahlia F
Chloe has a brown dachshund n a female ballet dancer.
named “Oscar.” / SdalyE / Denise was advised that being a
dacquoise Sw name > L danseuse was as exhausting as it
n a plant of a genus of tuberous- was rewarding.
/ dAkwAAz / rooted herbs having rayed flower
F heads. Dantesque
a dessert made of baked layers of The brightly colored flowers of the adj
nut meringue with a filling usually dahlia can be six inches in / TdBnStesk /
of buttercream. diameter. It name
The hotel dessert buffet included a of, relating to, or resembling the
chocolate-pecan dacquoise. daiquiri Italian writer Dante or his writings.
The Dantesque image of a soul in
dactylogram dais torture repulsed Regina.
n n
/ dakStilETgram / / SdCDs / dashiki
Gk + Gk L>F>E
an impression taken from a a platform raised usually above the dashing
finger : fingerprint. floor of a hall or large room to give adj
Calvin used a magnifying glass to distinction or prominence to those / SdashiN /
examine the loops and whorls in a occupying it. E imit + Ecf
dactylogram of his index finger. A round dais was exactly in the vigorously active : spirited.
center of the room. The dashing actor was the talk of
dactylology the party.
Daliesque
dactyloscopy adj dastardly
n / TdBlGSesk /
/ TdaktESlBskEpG / Sp name dasymeter
Gk resembling or suggesting the
identification by comparison of paintings of the Spanish surrealist dauntless
fingerprints. artist Dali.
Dactyloscopy indicated that the The poster showed a Daliesque dawdle
suspect’s fingerprints are indeed on face with feathers poking out of
the murder weapon. each nostril.
Page 80 of 349
dawdler debility deceitful
n adj
/ SdOd(F)lE(r) / debonairness / dDSsGtfEl /
unknown + Ecf E + Ecf
one who wastes time in idle debouchment dishonest.
lingering. n The Better Business Bureau warned
Lauren was such a dawdler that / dDSbVshmEnt / Jasper of the awning company’s
she often missed the school bus. F deceitful business practices.
a mouth or outlet especially of a
dazzling river. deceive
v The river’s debouchment had to be v
/ Sdaz(E)liN / dredged because the sediment was / dDSsGv /
ON > E + Ecf a hazard to navigation. L>F>E
overpowering with brightness : cause to believe the false : delude.
shining. debridement Cara’s forgery of her mother’s
Morgan took great satisfaction in n signature did not deceive the
dazzling his neighbors with his / dDSbrGdTmBM / principal.
Christmas light display. F
the surgical removal of lacerated, decelerate
deacon devitalized, or contaminated tissue. v
The doctor explained to the / dGSselETrCt /
deactivate firefighter why debridement was L
the best treatment for his second- lessen the speed of : slow down.
deaerate degree burns. Reversing engine thrust is used to
decelerate jets upon landing.
dearth debris
n n deceleron
/ SdErth / / dESbrG /
E F decennial
scarcity : lack of a present the remains of something broken
necessity. down or destroyed. decentralization
The general realized that his army Scattered debris lies where
was suffering from a dearth of self- majestic homes stood before last decibel
confidence. week’s tornado. n
/ SdesETbel /
debacle debut L + Scottish-American name
n a unit for measuring the relative
/ dDSbBkEl / decadent loudness of sounds equal
L > OProv > F approximately to the smallest
a sudden breakdown : collapse. decaffeinate degree of difference of loudness
Craig reads everything he can find ordinarily detectable by the human
regarding the Wall Street debacle decanter ear.
of 1929. Differences of one decibel can be
decedent important to a recording engineer.
debarrass n
/ dDSsGdFnt / deciduous
debenture L adj
n a dead person; especially : a person / dDSsijEwEs /
/ dDSbenchE(r) / who has recently died. L
L The relatives of the decedent falling off or shed at the end of the
a writing or certificate signed by a gathered for the reading of the will. growing period, at certain seasons,
public officer as evidence of a debt or at certain stages of development.
or of a right to demand or receive a Deciduous trees drop their leaves
sum of money. each fall.
Uncle John treasures the debenture
issued by the Confederate decimal
government, even though it is
actually worthless.
Page 81 of 349
decimate decompose decussate
v v adj
/ SdesETmCt / / TdGkEmSpPz / / SdekEsDt /
L L>F L
select by lot and kill every tenth separate or resolve into constituent shaped like an X.
person of. parts or elements or into simpler Each wing of the moth had a
The terrorist promised to decimate compounds. decussate marking.
the group of hostages every half Mr. Landry asked the students
hour until his demands were met. whether they knew any compounds deducibility
other than methanol which
deciphered decompose into carbon dioxide and defamatory
v water.
/ dDSsIfE(r)d / defeasible
L + Ar > L > F > E decorous adj
made out, read, or interpreted adj / dDSfGzEbEl /
despite obscuration. / SdekErEs / F + Ecf
When one considers the variety of L capable of being or liable to being
handwriting, and of bad marked by propriety and good voided, annulled, or undone.
handwriting, too, that must be taste. When a family adopts a baby,
deciphered, it increases the wonder Lucia was surprised to find that the several requirements have to be
that so seldom a letter is delivered disc jockey was as decorous off the met; otherwise the adoption is
to the wrong person. air as he was volcanic while on the defeasible.
air.
decistere defendant
n decorticate n
/ SdesDTsti(E)r / v / dDSfendEnt /
F / dGSkO(r)ZETkCt / L>F
a metric unit of capacity equal to L a person required to make answer
1/10 cubic meter. remove the bark, husk, or other in an action or suit in law or equity
Caleb bought a decistere of lime outer covering from. or in a criminal action.
for his front lawn. Sharp front teeth allow squirrels to When the foreman of the jury read
decorticate hickory nuts. the verdict of “not guilty,” the
declamatory defendant embraced his attorneys.
adj decoupage
/ dDSklamETtPrG / n deferential
L / TdCkVSpBzh /
marked by rhetorical effect or F defervescence
display : stilted. the art of decorating surfaces by n
Minna’s declamatory sermon applying cutouts and then coating / TdG(T)fErSvesFn(t)s /
alienated many of her listeners. them with several layers of a finish L
such as lacquer or varnish. the subsidence of a fever.
declension Aunt Hazel’s interest in arts and Antonio’s mother was relieved to
crafts was kindled by a free class in note the signs of defervescence in
decline decoupage. her son.
declivate decreolization deficiency

adj n
/ dDSklITvCt / decrescendo / dDSfishEnsG /
L L
inclining downward : sloping. decuman the quality or state of lacking some
Mary Ann slid down the declivate adj quality, faculty, or characteristic
roof of the playhouse. / SdekyEmEn / necessary for completeness.
L Scurvy is caused by a deficiency of
declivous (of a wave) : extremely large. vitamin C in the diet.
That decuman wave that took the
ship fore and aft swept the life raft defilade
off the deck.
decumbiture
Page 82 of 349
definite deleteriously delirious
adj adv adj
/ Sdef(E)nDt / / TdelDStirGEslG / / dDSlirGEs /
L Gk + Ecf L
free of all ambiguity, uncertainty, in a hurtful or destructive manner. affected with frenzied excitement
or obscurity. It seems that every day we are or wild enthusiasm.
Dad sounded quite definite when he reminded that smoking affects the The delirious fans rushed onto the
told us to turn off the TV. body deleteriously. field to congratulate the
champions.
degauss delicacy
n delitescent
deglutition / SdelDkEsG / adj
L / TdelEStesEnt /
dehisce something pleasing to eat that is L
accounted rare or luxurious. lying hidden : obfuscated, latent.
dehiscence Caviar is considered a delicacy. The psychiatrist tried to discover
n the delitescent significance of his
/ dDShisFn(t)s / delicatessen patient’s dreams.
L + Ecf n
the bursting open of a capsule or / TdelDkEStesFn / delphinium
pod at maturity. F>G
In dry weather, dehiscence of some a store where ready-to-eat food deltiology
seed pods occurs prematurely. products (as cooked meats and n
prepared salads) are sold. / TdeltGSBlEjG /
deify Marta stopped at the delicatessen Gk
to buy some cold cuts for our lunch. the hobby of collecting postcards.
deign Jodie got started in deltiology just
delicious last year but already has postcards
deipnosophist adj from over 100 countries.
n / dDSlishEs /
/ dIpSnBsEfDst / L deltoidal
Gk appealing to one of the bodily
a person skilled in table talk. senses, especially that of taste. delude
Clint’s reputation as a Judith said the fudge was the most
deipnosophist makes him an ideal delicious she had ever tasted. deluge
dinner guest. n
delineate / Sdel(T)yVj /
delectable L>F>E
adj delinquency a drenching rain : downpour.
/ dDSlektEbEl / The children were caught in a
L delinquent deluge as they waited for the school
deliciously flavored. n bus.
JoAnne selected Black Forest cake / dDSliNkwEnt /
from the delectable dessert L demagoguery
offerings. a transgressor against duty or law. n
The police referred to Harold as a / SdemETgBg(E)rG /
delegate “delinquent” when he was found Gk + Ecf
on the street after curfew. the principles or practices of
deleterious rabble-rousers.
adj deliquesce Economic hardship often gives rise
/ TdelDStirGEs / v to demagoguery.
Gk / TdelESkwes /
hurtful, destructive. L
The museum did not permit flash become soft or liquid with age.
photography because of the After a couple of weeks in the
possible deleterious effects on the refrigerator, lettuce begins to
paintings. deliquesce.
deliquescent
Page 83 of 349
demarcate demitasse demurs
v n n pl
/ dDSmBrTkCt / / SdemGTtas / / dDSmErz /
Gmc > It > Sp L > F > E + Per > Ar > F L
mark by bounds. a small cup of coffee usually taken difficulties in making up one’s
Sol used fishing line to demarcate black. mind : indecisions.
his half of the room from his Nathan sipped nervously at a Harriet’s message was
brother’s. demitasse while he waited for his unequivocal, containing no doubts
attorney. or demurs.
demaree
demobilize dengue
demeanor n
n democracy / SdeN(T)gG /
/ dDSmGnE(r) / n African? > Sp
L>F>E / dDSmBkrEsG / [has homonym: dinghy] an acute
behavior toward others : outward Gk > L infectious disease characterized by
manner. a government by the people : rule sudden onset, headache, racking
The vice-president’s icily serious of the majority. joint pain, and a rash and caused by
demeanor was fodder for the late- Cara could not imagine what her a virus transmitted by mosquitoes.
night talk shows. life would be like if it were The African village was
governed not by a democracy but quarantined after an outbreak of
demegoric instead by the whims of a few dengue.
people.
dementia denizen
demography n
demersal n / SdenEzEn /
/ dDSmBgrEfG / L>F>E
demesne Gk a dweller in a certain place or
n the statistical study of the region.
/ dDSmCn / characteristics of human Melvin asked a local denizen for
F populations especially with directions.
[has near homonym: domain] legal reference to size and density,
possession of land as one’s own. growth, distribution, migration, and denominator
The earl vowed to defend his vital statistics.
demesne at any cost. Beth’s interest in demography led denouement
her to a career in advertising. n
demiglace / TdCnVSmBM /
demolition L>F
demijohn the final outcome, result, or
n demoniacal unraveling of the main dramatic
/ SdemGTjBn / complication in a play or other
F + F name > E demulcent work of literature.
a narrow-necked bottle of glass or adj The loose ends of the plot were
stoneware that is enclosed in / dDSmElsEnt / neatly tied up in the surprising
wickerwork and has one or two L denouement.
wicker handles. soothing, softening.
Water glugged from the demijohn The pharmacist told Boris that a dentifrice
as Emily emptied it on the lawn. demulcent syrup would be best for n
his sore throat. / SdentEfrDs /
demise L
demurrage a powder, paste, or liquid used in
cleaning the teeth.
John decided to use a dentifrice
containing baking soda.
Page 84 of 349
denunciation deracinated dermatitis
n adj n
/ dDTnEnsGSCshEn / / dDSrasFnTCtEd / / TdErmEStIZDs /
L L > F + Ecf Gk > L
the act of pronouncing (as a person, physically, mentally, or inflammation of the skin typically
idea, course of conduct, or political emotionally separated from one’s marked by reddening, swelling, and
philosophy) as blameworthy or racial, social, or intellectual group. scaling.
evil. Erica’s father worries that she Bonnie treated her dermatitis with
The senator’s speech was a might become deracinated at such aloe juice.
denunciation of many federal a large university.
programs. dermonecrotic
derailleur adj
depilatory n / TdEr(T)mPTnDSkrBZik /
n / dDSrClE(r) / Gk
/ dDSpilETtPrG / F relating to or causing the death of
L>F [has homonym: derailer] a skin tissue.
a cosmetic for the temporary mechanism for shifting gears on a The powerful medication had a
removal of undesired hair. bicycle that operates by moving the dermonecrotic effect on Uncle
Hank mixed a depilatory into his chain from one set of exposed gears Arthur’s legs.
sister's shampoo. to another.
Laurent’s derailleur jammed a few derogatorily
deprecated minutes into the race, and he was
v forced to the side of the road. derogatory
/ SdeprDTkCZDd / adj
L deranged / dDSrBgETtOrG /
sought to avert. adj L
When a very thick letter from Mr. / dDSrCnjd / expressive of low estimation or
Churchill was brought to Emma, F reproach : disdainful.
she guessed what it must contain disordered, unbalanced. Janet did not appreciate the
and deprecated the necessity of Jane’s health seemed completely derogatory remarks her brother
reading it. deranged, though she had no made about her dress.
absolutely alarming symptoms.
deprecatory derrick
dereism n
depredatory / Sderik /
adj derelict E name
/ SdeprEdETtPrG / n the framework or tower over a deep
L / SderETlikt / drill hole (as that of an oil well) for
tending to lay waste or prey upon : L supporting the tackle for boring or
plundering. a thing voluntarily abandoned by for hoisting and lowering.
Following the earthquake, its owner with the intention of not The rocket was supported on the
depredatory gangs looted many retaking it and rightly claimed by launch pad by a tower that was a
stores. the first person who takes converted oil derrick.
possession of it; specifically : a
depurate boat abandoned on the high seas. descendible
v Tom sank his yacht when his
/ SdepyETrCt / rescuers arrived lest it become a descent
L derelict. v
free from impurities or / dGSsent /
heterogeneous matter : purify, dereliction L+E
cleanse. n rid of odor or smell.
The hiking book advised using / TderESlikshEn / After their dog was sprayed by a
iodine tablets and a filter to L skunk, the Andersons tried
depurate groundwater before intentional or conscious neglect (as everything to descent him, but
drinking it. of principles). nothing worked.
The security guard was summarily
fired for dereliction of duty.
Page 85 of 349
descried desperado desultorily
v n adv
/ dDSskrId / / TdespESrB(T)dP / / TdesElStPrElG /
F>E L > Sp L
caught sight of especially by a bandit of the western frontier. in an erratic, wavering manner.
watchful attention and careful Louis pretended to be a desperado Orna behaved desultorily at the
observation of the distant, holding up a stagecoach. dress rehearsal.
uncertain, or obscure.
When the dog descried his master desperate desultory
walking up the lane, he hurried out adj
to greet him. despicable / SdesElTtPrG /
adj L
desecrate / dDSspikEbEl / not cogently relevant : digressive.
L Nancy’s comments in class are
desiccate meriting hatred, scorn, or loathing. usually rather desultory, but today
v Sylvester’s stress level would be her remarks were very relevant.
/ SdesDTkCt / greatly reduced if he found fewer
L situations despicable. detective
[has near homonym: desecrate] dry n
up or cause to dry up : deprive or despotism / dDStektiv /
exhaust of moisture. n L
The hot sunshine and the dry wind / SdespETtizEm / a plainclothes police officer.
combined to desiccate Martha’s Gk > F The detective asked the bystanders
tomato plants. absolute government in which if any of them had actually seen the
power is vested in a single ruler. shooter.
design Those who believe in the progress
of humanity have a hard time deterge
desirable explaining 20th-century despotism.
detergent
desman desquamate
n v deterrence
/ SdezmEn / / SdeskwETmCt / n
Sw L / dDStErEn(t)s /
an aquatic insectivorous mammal peel off in the form of scales. L + Ecf
of Russia that resembles a mole. Ed came down with scarlet fever the act or process of turning aside,
At one end the desman has a long, and was horrified when his skin discouraging, or preventing from
flared snout and at the other end a began to desquamate. acting especially by fear.
long, flattened tail. The police hoped that Ted’s severe
destrier jail sentence would promote the
desolate n deterrence of criminal acts by the
adj / SdestrGEr / other gang members.
/ SdesElDt / L>F>E
L a large powerful horse used as a deterrent
charactized by abandonment, war-horse by a medieval knight. n
isolation, or barrenness. The knight rapidly saddled his / dDStErEnt /
The irrigation project revived the destrier and galloped off to battle L
once desolate farming community. the invaders. something that discourages or
prevents from acting by fear or
despair desuetude consideration of unpleasant
n n attendant consequences.
/ dDSspa(a)(E)r / / SdeswGTtVd / The police hoped that Ted’s severe
L L jail sentence would serve as a
utter loss of hope. discontinuance from use, practice, deterrent to criminal activity by the
Despair overcame Gerald as he exercise, or functioning : a state of other gang members.
stared at his French exam. protracted suspension or of
apparent abandonment. detinue
In some schools the practice of
memorizing great poems has fallen detonator
into desuetude.
Page 86 of 349
detour dhurrie diagonal
n adj
detriment / SdErG / / dISagEnFl /
Hindi Gk > L
detritus a thick cotton cloth or carpet made running across from corner to
n in India. corner.
/ dDStrIZEs / The dhurrie in Morgan’s foyer is Chris preferred the tile floor with
L one she purchased during her trip the diagonal pattern.
a product of disintegration or to Delhi.
wearing away : fragment or diagram
fragmentary material. diabetes
The aerial photo of Don’s ranch n dialysis
shows a fan of detritus at the mouth / TdIESbGZGz / n
of the gulch. Gk / dISalEsDs /
any of certain abnormal conditions Gk
detrude characterized by the secretion and the separation of substances in
excretion of excessive amounts of solution by means of their unequal
deuce urine. diffusion through semipermeable
n Drugs and diet changes can control membranes.
/ Sd(y)Vs / diabetes in most patients. Blood was removed from the
L>F patient, purified by dialysis, and
[has near homonyms: do’s, dues] a diablerie then returned to the patient’s
tie in tennis in points toward a n bloodstream.
game or in games requiring scoring / dGSBblE(T)rG /
of two consecutive points by one L>F diapason
side to win the game or set. dealings with the devil or devils : n
The first point won in tennis after witchcraft, sorcery. / TdIESpCzFn /
deuce is called “advantage in” if Each Halloween, stories of Gk > L
won by the server, “advantage out” diablerie resurface in the media. a burst of harmonious sound :
if won by the receiver. melody, strain.
diacetate The trumpeters filled the courtyard
deuteragonist with thrilling diapason.
n diadem
/ Td(y)VZESragEnDst / n diapered
Gk + Gk / SdIETdem /
a person who serves as a foil to Gk > L > F > E diaphanous
another. crown; specifically : an ornamental adj
The movie’s hero was thwarted by headband worn (as by Eastern / dISafEnEs /
the villainous deuteragonist. monarchs) as a badge of royalty. GK > L
A brocade diadem would be a characterized by such fineness and
deuteranopia perfect finishing touch for Josh’s delicacy of texture as to permit
n King David costume. seeing through.
/ Td(y)VZErESnPpGE / The jellyfish were so diaphanous
Gk diagnose that you could be next to them in
red-green blindness believed due to v the water and never know they
a defect in the optic nerve. / SdIDgTnPs / were there.
Joel’s deuteranopia disqualified Gk > L
him from the Air Force’s pilot identify a condition by evaluating diaphragm
school. its signs and symptoms.
Dr. Morris was reluctant to diary
devolution diagnose Tina’s condition until he
had the test results.
dewclaw
dextrally
Page 87 of 349
diaspora dietetic dilapidated
n adj
/ dISasp(E)rE / dietetics / dDSlapETdCZEd /
Gk n pl L
a dispersion (as of people of a / TdIESteZiks / decayed, deteriorated, injured, or
common national origin or of Gk fallen into partial ruin.
common beliefs). the science or art of applying the Only birds and bats resided in the
The guest lecturer at the Modern principles of nutrition to the dilapidated old house.
Language Association meeting feeding of individuals or groups
jokingly referred to the diaspora of under different economic dilatory
Esperanto speakers. conditions or for hygienic or adj
therapeutic purposes. / SdilETtPrG /
diaspore Pam concentrated on dietetics in L
her graduate studies with hopes of characterized by procrastination or
diatribe joining a world hunger delay : slow.
n organization after receiving her Mr. Knightley always moved with
/ SdIETtrIb / degree. the alertness of a mind which could
Gk be neither undecided nor dilatory.
a bitter, abusive, and usually different
lengthy speech or piece of writing. dilemma
After supper, Deirdre launched into difficult
her familiar diatribe against adj diligence
commercial television. / SdifE(T)kElt /
L diligently
diazotype hard to understand : puzzling,
obscure. dillydally
dicerous There were so many words that v
adj were difficult, and Milo knew / SdilGTdalG /
/ SdisErEs / hardly any of them. Gmc > F > E
Gk waste time by loitering or delay.
having two antennae. diffident “There’s lots to do; we have a very
Because most insects have a pair of adj busy schedule— from 6:00 to 7:00
antennae, they are dicerous. / SdifEdEnt / we dillydally,” he exclaimed.
L
dichotomy lacking confidence in oneself : diluent
n distrustful of one’s own powers. n
/ dISkBZEmG / Emma was always quick and / SdilyEwEnt /
Gk assured; her sister was slow and L
the phase of the Moon or an diffident. an inert substance added to a
inferior planet in which just half its mixture especially for reducing the
disk appears illuminated. digitalis concentration of active ingredients.
The Moon had just reached n Water added to the insecticide acts
dichotomy when Amos began / TdijEStalDs / as a diluent and a carrier.
planting. L
the dried leaf of the purple dilute
dickcissel foxglove containing substances that v
are used to prepare a drug that is a / dISlVt /
didactic heart stimulant. L
adj Digitalis has proved to be the most make less concentrated : diminish
/ dISdaktik / effective treatment for Ginger’s the strength, activity, or flavor of.
Gk heart disorder. Because of the heat produced,
fitted or intended to teach. caution is needed when using water
Guy’s innovative and effective to dilute concentrated sulfuric acid.
didactic style inspired his students
to produce amazing work.
didacticism
didascaly
Page 88 of 349
dimension diphthong diremption
n n
/ dDSmenchEn / / SdifTthON / dirigibility
L Gk
a measurable aspect such as length a gliding monosyllabic sound that dirigible
or width. starts at or near the articulatory n
Height is one dimension of a cube. position for one vowel and moves / SdirEjEbEl /
to or toward the position for L + Ecf
diminuendo another. airship.
Many people do not pronounce the The explosion of the dirigible
diminutive diphthong in the word realtor Hindenburg is famous for its
adj correctly. dramatic radio coverage.
/ dDSminyEZiv /
L diphyodont dirigisme
small especially in size : tiny. adj n
Kerry was first to notice the / dISfiETdBnt / / dGrGzhGsm(F) /
diminutive hummingbird at the Gk L>F
honeysuckle bush. having deciduous and permanent economic planning and control by
sets of teeth successively. the state.
dimissory The teeth of most reptiles are Dirigisme is a characteristic of
adj naturally replaced throughout life, socialist law.
/ SdimETsPrG / but most mammals are diphyodont.
L dirndl
dismissing or granting leave to diploma
depart. disaffiliate
Upon hearing the principal’s diplopia
dimissory words, the students n disappointed
bolted out of the auditorium. / dDSplPpGE / adj
Gk / TdisESpOintDd /
dinosauric a disorder of vision in which two L>F
adj images of a single object are seen, defeated in expectation or hope.
/ TdInESsO(E)rik / owing to unequal action of the eye Ken’s parents were disappointed
Gk + Gk + Ecf muscles. that he earned only a D in math.
huge. Shirley noticed that her medicine
Angela was astounded by the produced the side effects of discalced
dinosauric size of the statue of dizziness and diplopia. adj
Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln / diSskalst /
Memorial. dipnoous L
unshod, barefooted.
diocese dipody The discalced runner became a
n n celebrity at the Olympics.
/ SdIEsDs / / SdipEdG /
Gk > L > F Gk > L discern
the district in which a bishop has a prosodic unit or measure of two
churchly authority. feet. discerp
The local bishop’s diocese covers The teacher commented on the
five counties. poet’s use of dipody for dramatic discerptible
effect. adj
diphtheria / dDSsErptEbEl /
n diptych L + Ecf
/ difSthirGE / n capable of being torn to pieces or
Gk / Sdip(T)tik / pulled apart.
an acute highly contagious bacterial Gk Al’s pet dog made short work of his
disease chiefly of young children a picture or series of pictures discerptible stuffed animals.
that is marked by swelling and painted on two tablets connected by
obstruction of the throat. hinges.
During the Depression, diphtheria The church’s altarpiece is a
claimed the lives of many children. Byzantine diptych.
Page 89 of 349
disciples discretion disintegration
n pl n n
/ dDSsIpElz / / dDSskreshEn / / dDsTintESgrCshEn /
L L L
those who receive instruction from power of decision : individual the act or process of shattering
another : followers. judgment. suddenly : flying to bits.
Katrina was among Mr. Crane’s The Constitution was framed and Mark caused the disintegration of
musical disciples who assembled adopted to establish a government the mirror when he slammed the
for instruction one evening a week. that should not depend on state door.
opinion and state discretion.
disclaimant disinter
n discursive
/ dDSsklCmEnt / dismal
L>F disdain adj
one who makes a denial or n / SdizmEl /
disavowal of legal claim. / dDsSdCn / L>F>E
The disclaimant did not want any L>F>E marked by gloom, dejection,
part of his grandfather’s estate. a feeling of contempt and aversion somberness, or depression of
for something regarded as spirits.
discoloration unworthy of or beneath one : scorn, The children who forgot their
contempt. gloves spent a dismal recess
discomfiture “This,” said Clara with complete looking out the window at the
n disdain, “is my little brother.” snow.
/ dDSskEmfETchU(E)r / disembogue
L>F>E v disobey
the state of being disconcerted or / TdisDmSbPg / v
abashed : confusion, L > Sp / TdisPSbC /
embarrassment. discharge water from an outlet or F
The bright lights added to Verne’s mouth. refuse or fail to abide by orders,
discomfiture as he stood behind the Many streams disembogue into the rules, or laws.
lectern. river along its course. A well-trained dog would not
disobey a familiar command.
discotheque disentangle
n v disparage
/ SdiskETtek / / TdisDnStaNgEl / v
Gk > L > F L > Ecf + E / dDSsparij /
a nightclub for dancing to recorded straighten out : unravel. F>E
music. Mrs. Luce helped David speak slightingly of.
Allen is a disk jockey at a popular disentangle the strands of the plot Arthur did not want to disparage
discotheque in Chicago. in Hamlet. his mother’s cooking, so he
complimented her on her pot roast
discredit disguise and secretly fed it to the dog.
v
discrepancy / dDsSgIz / disparate
n E, F
/ dDSskrepEnsG / change the customary dress or disparity
L appearance of. n
difference, variation, inconsistency. Ben tried to disguise his voice when / dDSsparEZG /
The accountant found a mysterious he telephoned Jill. L
discrepancy between the two marked difference (as in age, rank,
payroll records. disingenuousness grade, condition, quantity, quality,
n or kind).
/ TdisDnSjenyEwEsnDs / The evil of the actual disparity
L between Mr. Woodhouse’s and his
state of being unworthily or meanly daughter’s ages was increased by
artful. his constitution and habits.
Disingenuousness and double
dealing seemed to meet Mr. disponible
Churchill at every turn.
Page 90 of 349
disputatious dissuade diurnal
adj v adj
/ TdispyEStCshEs / / dDSswCd / / dISErnFl /
L L L
inclined to argue for or against divert by advice or persuasion : active chiefly during the daytime.
something asserted or maintained. turn from something by reasoning. Few cats are naturally diurnal,
Helen did not enjoy going to family Penny tried to dissuade her friend which can be a problem for light-
reunions because of her from making a choice she might sleeping owners.
disputatious relatives. later regret.
divagate
disquisition dissymmetry v
n n / SdIvETgCt /
/ TdiskwESzishEn / / di(s)SsimEtrG / L
L Gk + Gk + Gk move or extend in different
an elaborate analytical or the absence of or the lack of directions from a common point.
explanatory discussion : discourse. balanced proportions. Several ancient caravan routes
Rhetta’s first book was a lengthy The quilt designer was inspired by divagate from the extinct oasis.
disquisition on the Irish potato dissymmetry in crystal formations.
famine. divergent
distillate
disseminate divestiture
dithyramb n
dissentient n / dISvestETchU(E)r /
adj / SdithDTram / L + Ecf
/ dESsench(G)Ent / Gk the compulsory transfer of title or
L a statement or piece of writing in disposal of interests (as stock in a
not concurring : disagreeing. an exalted impassioned style corporation) upon government
There was not a dissentient voice usually in praise of something. order.
on the subject. Dennis launched into a dithyramb The Interstate Commerce
on Moira’s beauty and manifold Commission ordered the divestiture
dissertation virtues. of the company to be carried out no
later than September 30.
dissident ditokous
adj division
dissilient / SdiZEkEs /
Gk divorce
dissimilitude producing two eggs or young at a
n time. divulge
/ Tdi(s)sDSmilETtVd / Most common songbirds are v
L ditokous. / dDSvElj /
lack of resemblance. L
Although the plots of Gary’s two dittology tell or make known.
stories resemble each other, there n Ken was reluctant to divulge the
are several points of dissimilitude. / diStBlEjG / details of the merger.
Gk
dissipated a double reading or twofold docent
v interpretation (as of a biblical text). n
/ SdisETpCZDd / Millicent’s first lecture of the / SdPsFnt /
L semester was a dittology of the L
dispelled, dissolved. story of Genesis entitled “Serpent a person who guides groups
Mr. Knightley walked in soon after or Savior?” through a museum or art gallery
tea and dissipated every diuretic and discusses and comments on the
melancholy fancy. exhibits.
Judd’s interest in ancient history
dissonant was sparked by a knowledgeable
docent during a field trip to a
museum.
Page 91 of 349
docilely doleful domestic
adv adj adj
/ SdBsDl(l)G / / SdPlfEl / / dESmestik /
L L > E + Ecf L
in an obedient or submissive attended with or indicating grief or relating to the household or the
manner. a morose or despairing attitude. family.
Greg’s pet dog docilely follows his Martha had a doleful look on her Selma’s domestic situation changed
every command. face as she gazed out the window at drastically after she married a pack
the rain. rat.
docility
n dolioform domiciliated
/ dBSsilEZG / adj v
L / SdPlGETfOrm / / TdBmESsilGTCZDd /
the quality or state of being easily L L
taught, led, or managed. shaped like a barrel. had established residence : resided.
Docility and intelligence are The barrel cactus is a common The schoolmaster was domiciliated
important qualities that breeders dolioform plant of the deserts of in a different village house each
look for in the horses they buy. North and South America. week.
dockhand dolorifuge domineering

n
doctrinaire / dESlOrETfyVj / domino
n L>F>E n
/ TdBktrDSna(a)(E)r / something that banishes or / SdBmETnP /
L>F mitigates grief. L>F
one who attempts to put into effect Martina was so heartbroken when a flat rectangular block of bone,
some especially political theory her dog died that her dad brought ivory, wood, or plastic the face of
with little or no regard for practical home a new puppy as a dolorifuge. which is divided into two equal
difficulties. parts called “ends” which are blank
Benito described his opponent as dolorimetry or bear from one to six dots, used
an ivory-tower doctrinaire. in a set of 28 to play a game in
dolorous which the ends are matched.
documentary adj As a joke, Grandpa hid a domino
n / SdPlErEs / before asking Billy if he’d like to
/ TdBkyESmentErG / L play.
L expressive of sorrow or affliction.
a presentation (as a film or novel) In a dolorous voice the reporter donnism
that has the objective quality, described the scene of the disaster.
authority, or force of doraphobia
documentation in the representation dolphin
of a scene, place, condition of life n dorcastry
or of a social or political problem / SdBlfDn / n
or cause. Gk > L > Prov > F > E / SdOrkEsTtrG /
The documentary is being produced any of various small toothed Biblical name + Ecf
by environmentalists who protest whales with the snout more or less a church auxiliary organized to
the destruction of forests. elongated into a beak and the neck plan and execute benevolent work.
vertebrae partially fused. The dorcastry served free
dolcissimo The trained dolphin performed its Thanksgiving dinners for the
adv feats with great agility and grace. homeless.
/ dPlSchGsETmP /
L > It domain dormancy
very sweet or soft—used as a n
direction in music. / SdO(r)mEnsG /
The composer and the conductor L > F > E + Ecf
argued over whether the passage the quality or state of being
should be played dolcissimo. inactive.
Certain Australian frogs undergo
long periods of dormancy during
drought.
Page 92 of 349
dormitories doughiness draconian
n adj
dorsicollar / SdPGnDs / / drCSkPnGEn /
E Gk name
dosage the quality or state of being not marked by extreme severity or
thoroughly baked. cruelty : harsh, rigorous.
dosseret The doughiness of the cake The pop star’s main residence was
mortified Mrs. Cavendish. on an island where the tax laws
dossier were less draconian than in her
n doughty native England.
/ SdOsTyC / adj
F / SdaUZG / drainage
an accumulation of records, reports, E
miscellaneous pertinent data, and [has homonym: dowdy] marked by drama
documents bearing on a single fearless resolution and by stoutness
subject of study or investigation : in contest or struggle : valiant. dramaturgy
file. Daniel was a soldier’s soldier— n
The physician kept a careful rough, tough, and doughty. / SdramETtErjG /
dossier on each of her patients. Gk > L > F > E
dowager the technical devices that are used
Dostoevskian n in writing plays and that tend to
adj / SdaUDjE(r) / distinguish the play from other
/ TdBstESyefskGEn / F literary forms.
Russ name one of the elder women of assured Shakespeare was skilled at both
of, relating to, or typical of the position who tend to set the tone of poetry and dramaturgy.
Russian novelist Fedor Dostoevski an assembly, social group, or
or his writings. community. dreadful
The Dostoevskian character’s Great Aunt Georgine is the adj
tortured psychic state gripped and dowager of the Arts Council. / SdredfEl /
twisted Randy’s mind as he read E
page after page. dowitcher arousing feelings of disapproval or
dissatisfaction.
dotard doxology “Turn off that dreadful song,”
n Cynthia’s mom calmly demanded.
douanier / dBkSsBlEjG /
n Gk dreary
/ dwAnyC / a commonly short hymn or formula adj
F expressing praise to God. / SdrirG /
a customs officer. One common doxology in E
At the international airport the Protestant churches is set to a tune being without liveliness, cheer, joy,
douanier insisted on searching the called “Old Hundred.” or hope.
luggage of everyone proceeding doyen The dreary accountant decided that
through customs. n it was time to take an extended
/ SdOiEn / vacation.
doublure L>F
n [Note: Could be confused with dreidel
/ TdESblU(E)r / feminine doyenne.] the senior male n
L>F member of a body or group (as of a / SdrCdFl /
the lining of a book cover; diplomatic corps). G > Yiddish
especially : an ornamental lining. George Burns was the doyen of a four-sided die that revolves like a
The doublure is an important clue American stand-up comedians. spinning top, that is marked on
in identifying pirated editions of each side with a different Hebrew
early novels. letter, and that is used as a toy
especially during the Hanukkah
douceur festival.
Evan gave each of his classmates a
dreidel after presenting his report
on traditions associated with
Hanukkah.
Page 93 of 349
drepaniform dromedary drupaceous
adj n adj
/ drESpanETfOrm / / SdrBmETderG / / drVSpCshEs /
Gk + Ecf Gk > L > F > E Gk > L
hooked or curved like a sickle. a camel of unusual speed, bred and of or relating to a one-seeded
As Cliff walked home, the trained especially for riding, and indehiscent fruit having a hard
drepaniform Moon did little to light having a single large hump on the bony endocarp, a usually fleshy
his way. back. mesocarp, and a thin exocarp that is
Camel rides at the zoo featured a either like a skin or dry and almost
dressage dromedary. leathery.
n Cherries, plums, and almonds are
/ drESsBzh / dromomania drupaceous fruits.
F n
the execution by a horse of / TdrBmESmCnGE / duarchy
maneuvers involving changes of Gk > L n
gait, pace, and airs in response to an exaggerated desire to wander. / Sd(y)VTBrkG /
barely perceptible movements of a Yielding to his dromomania, Jack Gk
rider’s hands, legs, and weight. bought a recreational vehicle and a government by two rulers having
While in Austria, Derrick attended spent the summer touring the equal power.
an exhibition of dressage at a country. Critics accused the governor of
famous equestrian school. establishing a duarchy with her
drone husband.
drisheen n
n / SdrPn / dubiety
/ drDSshGn / E n
IrGael one that lives on the labors of / d(y)VSbIEZG /
a sausage prepared with sheep’s others. L
blood, milk, and seasonings. In Sleepy Hollow there were some the quality or state of being
While in County Cork, Mr. rustic patrons who considered a doubtful or skeptical : uncertainty.
O’Donnell ordered drisheen and schoolmaster a mere drone. There was dubiety in his voice and
eggs for breakfast. a hint of uncertainty in his eye.
drosophilist
drivel n duchy
v / drPSsBfElDst /
/ SdrivEl / G + L + Ecf ductile
E one who uses the vinegar fly in the
talk stupidly and carelessly without study of genetics. dudgeon
due thought, knowledge, or The drosophilist has helped to n
consideration. advance our knowledge of genes / SdEjEn /
Bart’s opinion is highly valued, for and the role they play in heredity. unknown
he is not one to drivel. aggrieved or angered feeling : ill
drudgery humor.
drogue n Fuming at the insult, Carl stalked
n / SdrEj(E)rG / off in high dudgeon.
/ SdrPg / E
E dull, fatiguing, or unrelieved work duet
[has homonym: drog] a sea anchor or expenditure of effort. n
(as a canvas bag with a hooped Machines now take much of the / d(y)VSet /
mouth) used to reduce the speed of drudgery out of housework. It
a boat and keep her head into the performance of a musical
wind. druggist composition or movement for two
The captain yelled at the crew to n singers or two instrumentalists.
lower the drogue while he signaled / SdrEgDst / Stephan and Christiana’s duet
the other boat. F featured Bach’s concerto for two
one who sells medicine : violins in D Minor.
pharmacist.
Jean asked her druggist to
recommend a cough syrup.
Page 94 of 349
dulcamara dunnage duvet
n n n
/ TdElkESmBrE / / SdEnij / / d(y)VSvC /
L unknown ON > F
a sprawling Old World poisonous [Note: Could be confused with a warm bedcover : quilt, comforter.
plant that is common as a weed in tonnage, tunnage.] cushioning or Sally stored her duvet in the linen
America and has purple flowers padding used in a shipping closet and used a light bedspread
and oval coral-red berries and that container to protect fragile articles during the summer months.
has a taste at first sweetish and then against shock and breakage.
bitter. Mother used popcorn as dunnage dvandva
The dried stems of the dulcamara in her gift boxes to her family in n
were once used in pharmaceutical Germany. / SdvBn(T)dvB /
preparations as a sedative. Skt
duodenitis a class of compound words having
dulcet n two constituents that are equal in
adj / Td(y)VETdGSnIZDs / rank and related to each other as if
/ SdElsDt / L joined by and.
L>F>E inflammation of the first part of the The word secretary-treasurer is an
pleasing to the ear. small intestine. example of a dvandva.
Hiroshi marveled at the dulcet George’s cramps were diagnosed
tones of the quartet. as duodenitis. dwarf
n
dulcitude duplicitous / SdwO(E)rf /
E
dullard duplicity an abnormally small person.
n n The adult dwarf was offended when
/ SdElE(r)d / / d(y)VSplisEZG / people treated him as a child.
F L
a stupid person. deception by pretending to dwindling
Barry apologized for rashly calling entertain one set of feelings and
James a dullard. acting under the influence of dynamitard
another. n
dumbbell When the candidate’s duplicity was / SdInEmDTtBrd /
n exposed, his supporters felt Gk > Sw + Ecf
/ SdEmTbel / embarrassed and betrayed. one that uses explosives for
E anarchistic or other political acts of
an exercise device that consists of durable violence.
round weights joined by a bar. adj Police agents seized the
With great effort, Tony hoisted the / Sd(y)UrEbEl / dynamitard in an old warehouse.
dumbbell above his shoulder. L>F>E
able to exist for a long time : dynamite
dune lasting.
Jimmy brought along a pair of dynasty
dungarees durable hiking boots for his trek
n pl through the mountainous terrain. dysbarism
/ TdENgESrGs /
Hindi duress dyscalculia
heavy cotton work clothes made n n
usually of heavy, coarse, durable, / d(y)ESres / / TdiskalSkyVlGE /
blue cotton twill. L>F>E Gk + L
Greg preferred his faded dungarees [has near homonym: dress] impairment of mathematical ability
to any other pants in his wardrobe. stringent compulsion by threat of due to an organic condition of the
danger, hardship, or retribution. brain.
dungeon Contracts signed under duress are Because she disliked math class so
not valid. much, Kathy was convinced that
she suffered from dyscalculia.
durezza
dysentery
Page 95 of 349
dyskinesia dysrhythmia ebullient
n n adj
/ TdiskDSnGzh(G)E / / dDsSriLmGE / / DSbUlyEnt /
Gk Gk L
impaired or abnormal motion of a condition characterized by characterized by enthusiasm or
voluntary or involuntary muscle. various psychological and exuberance.
Some drugs that are used to treat physiological effects and which Angela tried to be as ebullient as
psychiatric disorders can have occurs following long flight possible during the cheerleading
dyskinesia as a side effect. through several time zones and tryouts.
probably results from disruption of
dyslexia human body rhythms that occur in ebullition
n 24-hour cycles : jet lag.
/ dDSsleksGE / The travel agent gave the tour eburnated
Gk group several tips on how to avoid
a disturbance of the ability to read. dysrhythmia. eccentric
In Maria’s school, students with
dyslexia are given special training dystopia ecchymosis
to improve their reading, spelling, n n
and writing. / diSstPpGE / / TekESmPsDs /
Gk Gk > L
dyspepsia an imaginary place which is the escape of blood into the tissues
distressingly wretched and whose from ruptured blood vessels
dyspeptic people lead a fearful existence. marked by a livid black-and-blue or
adj The science-fiction tale was set in a purple spot or area.
/ dESspeptik / 23rd-century dystopia. A black eye results from
Gk ecchymosis.
gloomy or negative. eagle
The editor’s dyspeptic views on the ecclesiastic
election irritated many readers. eaglet n
/ DTklGzGSastik /
dysphemia earlobe Gk
a person in holy orders or
dysphemism earnest consecrated to the service of the
n n church.
/ SdisfETmizEm / / SErnDst / The new bishop was an ecclesiastic
L E of high learning and virtue.
substitution of a disagreeable, [Note: The definition provided is
offensive, or disparaging word or not the one most commonly ecclesiastical
expression for an agreeable or associated with this word.] adj
inoffensive one; also, a word or something of value given by a / DTklGzGSastDkEl /
expression so substituted. buyer to a seller to bind a bargain. Gk > L
Rachel, whose father is an auto Ms. Giblin gave the sellers $3,000 belonging to, suggestive of, or
mechanic, cringes every time she as earnest so that they would not suitable for use in a church building
hears the dysphemism grease entertain other offers. or service of worship.
monkey. Ramona designed and sewed all the
eavesdrop ecclesiastical garments worn in the
dysphoria church’s services.
n ebony
/ dDSsfPrGE / ecclesiology
Gk ebriosity
a generalized state of feeling
unwell or unhappy. ebullience
Edith has had frequent crying
spells and periods of dysphoria
since early childhood.
Page 96 of 349
ecesis echt economist
n adj n
/ DSsGsDs / / SeKt / / GSkBnEmDst /
Gk G Gk
the successful establishment of a genuine, authentic. a specialist in or student of the
plant or animal in a new All the lamps were very attractive, social science that studies the
environment or habitat. but only one was echt Tiffany. production, distribution, and
Ecesis by an introduced species consumption of commodities.
often threatens native flora or eclectic Adam Smith was the most
fauna. adj influential economist of the 18th
/ eSklektik / century.
echelon Gk + Gk
n composed of elements drawn from ecru
/ SeshETlBn / various sources. n
L>F Gaynor’s eclectic taste in music / CSkrV /
one of a series of levels or grades makes selecting CDs for her a L>F
(as of leadership or responsibility) cinch. [has near homonym: accrue] of a
in an organization or field of textile : a light grayish yellowish
activity. eclipse brown that is yellower and lighter
Employees at every echelon of the n than gravel.
company were encouraged to make / DSklips / The bridal gown is available in
suggestions. L>F>E both ecru and white.
the obscuration of one celestial
echelonment body by another. ecstasy
Susan and Stuart flew to Mexico to
echinoderm view a total eclipse of the Sun. ecstatic
n adj
/ DSkInPTdErm / eclogue / ekSstaZik /
Gk n Gk
any of a phylum of radially / SeTklOg / caused by, expressing, or causing a
symmetrical marine animals that Gk > L state of exaltation or rapturous
have a true body cavity, a a poem in which shepherds are delight.
calcareous exoskeleton, a blood- introduced conversing. Maria was ecstatic when her
vascular system, a nervous system, The bucolic view of meadows and boyfriend proposed to her.
and a water-vascular system that hills inspired Shelley to compose
provides tentacles and organs of an eclogue. ectocanthion
locomotion. n
The starfish is a familiar ecocatastrophe / TektPSkan(t)thGEn /
echinoderm. n Gk + Gk
/ G(T)kPkEStastrE(T)fG / the point at which the outer ends of
echoed Gk the upper and lower eyelids meet.
v a major destructive upset in the Plastic surgery was needed to
/ Se(T)kPd / balance of nature especially when repair an injury to the patient’s
Gk caused by the intervention of face at the ectocanthion.
resounded with sounds caused by humans.
reflections of sound waves. Sam considers the destruction of ectoplasm
Reanna’s words echoed back to her the rain forests an ecocatastrophe. n
from across the canyon. / SektETplazEm /
ecologist Gk
echolalia n the emanation from a spiritualistic
n / GSkBlEjDst / medium that is believed to effect
/ TekPSlClGE / Gk > G telekinesis and similar phenomena.
Gk + Gk a specialist in the branch of science In the movies people are always
the often pathological repetition of concerned with the getting slimed by what they call
what is said by other people as if interrelationship of organisms and “ectoplasm,” but if it exists, it
imitating them. their environment. would more likely look like mist.
The speech of autistic persons is Kimberly will work as a summer
sometimes characterized by intern for an ecologist in the ecuelle
echolalia. Everglades.
Page 97 of 349
ecumenism edentulate effectually
n adv
/ SekyEmETnizEm / edentulous / DSfekch(Ew)ElG /
Gk + Ecf adj L&F > E
principles and practices relating to / TGSdenchElEs / in a manner producing the desired
or promoting worldwide Christian L results.
unity. lacking teeth; especially : having A warm drink is said to fortify one
The World Council of Churches is lost teeth previously present. effectually against the cold.
a major force in the religious When Susie skipped into the second
movement known as “ecumenism.” grade classroom, she gave Miss effervesce
ecumenopolis O’Connell an edentulous grin.
n effervescent
/ TekyEmDSnBpElEs / edible adj
Gk / TefE(r)SvesFnt /
a single city encompassing the edification L
whole world that is held to be a n impossible or difficult to restrain or
possibility of the future. / TedEfDSkCshEn / suppress : bubbling, exuberant.
Many science fiction stories are L Sean’s effervescent personality
based on the premise of Earth’s a building up of the mind, caught the attention of the job
future ecumenopolis. character, or faith : intellectual, recruiter.
moral, or spiritual improvement.
eczematous Though she knew that the word effete
adj origins wouldn’t be on the test,
/ igSzGmEZEs / Tara studied them for her own efficacious
Gk edification.
relating to or having the efficacy
characteristics of an inflammatory edifice n
skin condition characterized by n / SefDkEsG /
redness, itching, and lesions. / SedEfDs / L
Eczematous skin eruptions may be L the power to produce an effect :
due to allergies to certain foods, building; especially : a large or effectiveness.
drugs, or cosmetics. massive structure (as a church or For Harriet, the idea of being
government building). preferred by Mr. Elton had all the
edacious To Amy, the most beautiful edifice usual weight and efficacy.
adj in our nation’s capital is the
/ DSdCshEs / National Cathedral. efficiency
L + Ecf
[has near homonym: audacious] editorial effigy
voracious, devouring. n
Mary Ellen’s edacious appetite for edulcorate / SefEjG /
gossip is offensive to all. v L>F
/ DSdElkETrCt / a full or partial representation
edaphon L especially of a person.
n free from harshness (as of attitude) Andy felt a chill when he spotted
/ SedETfBn / : make pleasant. the effigy of his ancestor in the
Gk > ISV Ben is under the mistaken cathedral crypt.
the animal and plant life present in impression that his flattery will
soils. edulcorate the stern judge. effleurage
Stephanie is studying the edaphon n
of the river delta. eerily / TeflESrBzh /
L>F
edelweiss efface a light stroking movement used in
n massage.
/ SCdFlTwIs / Abdominal effleurage is a
G technique used in prepared
a small perennial herb growing childbirth.
high in the Alps.
Eva recognized the edelweiss by its
distinctive white petals.
Page 98 of 349
efflorescence effusive egress
n adj n
/ TeflESresFn(t)s / / DSfyVsiv / / SGgres /
L L L
the result or culminating feature of expressing or marked by the act or right of going or coming
a developmental process : unrestrained emotion : unduly out.
outgrowth, flower. demonstrative. Every hotel should provide
The museum guide commented that Troy was bowled over by the accessible ways of egress.
change in art is merely the effusive greeting of his Labrador
efflorescence of certain long retriever. eider
prepared and anticipated effects.
egalitarian eiderdown
effluent adj n
n / (T)GTgalESterGEn / / SIdE(r)TdaUn /
/ SeTflVEnt / L>F ON > Icel > G
L marked by or adhering to a belief the small fluffy under feathers of
[Note: Could be confused with that all persons are equal in any of several large northern sea
affluent.] something that flows out, intrinsic worth and are entitled to ducks.
as liquid discharged as waste (as equal access to the rights and The price tag on the sleeping bag
water used in an industrial process). privileges of their society. stuffed with eiderdown shocked
The effluent from the cooling tower The senator promised to help Kevin’s parents.
is pure water. create and expand opportunities
and distribute them in an eidetic
effluvium egalitarian fashion. adj
n / ISdeZik /
/ eSflVvGEm / egocentric Gk
L adj [has near homonym: identic] of or
an exhalation or smell especially / TGgPSsentrik / relating to voluntarily producible
when unpleasant. L + Gk > E visual images having almost
The effluvium from the backed-up self-centered, selfish. photographic accuracy : vivid,
drain nauseated Mr. Locke. Dillard’s friends claimed there was lifelike.
not an egocentric bone in his body. Sometimes Grandma would fall
effrontery into eidetic reveries and talk to her
n egocentricity long-deceased brother.
/ DSfrEntErG / n
L>F / TGgP(T)senStrisEZG / eigne
flagrant boldness that is offensive L + Gk > L
or insolent : gall. the quality or state of being einkorn
Chuck had the effrontery to concerned with oneself rather than n
interrupt the senator during his with others. / SInTkOrn /
speech. The conductor’s egocentricity G
made his interaction with the a one-grained wheat that is
effulgence musicians less than harmonious. regarded by some as the most
primitive wheat and is grown
effulgent egregious especially in poor soils in central
adj adj Europe.
/ eSfUljEnt / / DSgrGjEs / Einkorn grown in southeastern
L L Turkey is believed to be closely
marked by or as if by brightly flagrant : glaringly evident. related to a grain first
shining light. As a medical researcher, Laura domesticated as early as 9000 B.C.
An effulgent flash of intuition knew that many of the reports of
enabled Tony to solve the geometry medical breakthroughs on
exam’s final problem. television contained egregious
errors.
egregiously
Page 99 of 349
Einsteinian eleemosynary elision
adj adj n
/ SInzTtInGEn / / TelESmBsFnTerG / / DSlizhEn /
G name L L
of or relating to American physicist of or relating to charity : charitable, the use of a speech form that lacks
and mathematician Albert Einstein philanthropic. a final or initial sound that a variant
or his theories. Participation in eleemosynary speech form has.
The Einsteinian theory of special activities is a graduation Today’s French class concentrated
relativity revolutionized the field of requirement at Janie’s school. on when to use elision.
physics.
elegiacal elitist
einsteinium adj
elementary / DSlGZDst /
ejector L>F
elephant of or relating to a consciousness of
ekistics n being one of a segment or group
n pl / SelEfEnt / regarded as socially superior.
/ DSkistiks / Hamitic? > Gk > L > F The private school offers many
Gk any of a family of thickset need-based scholarships to combat
a science dealing with human extremely large nearly hairless the impression that its student body
settlements and drawing on the herbivorous mammals that have a is elitist.
research and experience of snout elongated into a muscular
professionals in various fields (as trunk and two incisors in the upper elixir
architecture, engineering, city jaw developed especially in the n
planning, and sociology). male into large ivory tusks. / DSliksE(r) /
Dora’s degree in sociology aided Zack and Debbie enjoyed watching Gk? > Ar > L > E
her in her study of ekistics. the elephant use its trunk to spray a substance or concoction held to
water on its back. be capable of prolonging life
elasticity indefinitely.
elephantine Explorers through the ages have
electrolysis adj sought the elixir of life, better
n / TelESfanTtGn / known as the “fountain of youth.”
/ DTlekStrBlEsDs / Gk > L ellipse
Gk of enormous size or weight : n
the destruction of hair roots with an uncommonly large : immense, / DSlips /
electric current. massive. Gk
Electrolysis was one of the means Troy was served an elephantine ice an elongated circle.
of hair removal demonstrated in cream sundae. The walking path behind the school
Roweena’s cosmetology class. forms an ellipse around the tennis
eligible courts.
electuary adj
n / SelDjEbEl / ellipses
/ DSlekchETwerG / L n pl
Gk > L > E [Note: The definition provided is / GSlipTsGz /
a medicated paste prepared with not the one most commonly Gk
honey or other sweet substance, associated with this word.] [Note: The definition provided is
used in veterinary practice, and preferable, desirable. not the one most commonly
administered by smearing on the The quietness of the game made it associated with this word.]
teeth, gums, or tongue. particularly eligible for Mr. omissions of one or more words
The veterinarian patiently smeared Woodhouse, who had often been that are obviously understood but
an electuary on the horse’s gums. distressed by the more animated must be supplied to make a
sort. construction grammatically
complete.
Pat’s use of suspension periods to
punctuate her main character’s
ellipses visually portrays the
character’s disjointed thought.
Page 100 of 349

ellipticity emancipation embarrassment
n n
elocution / DTman(t)sESpCshEn / / DmSbarEsmEnt /
n L Pg > Sp > F
/ TelESkyVshEn / the act or process of setting or confusion or discomposure of
L making free; broadly : deliverance mind.
the art of oratorical or expressive from any onerous and controlling Locking his car keys in his car
public speaking. power. trunk caused Andy much
Senator Okada is a master of Abraham Lincoln’s decree embarrassment.
elocution. proclaiming emancipation for
slaves came as a joyous daybreak embassy
eloquence to end the long night of captivity.
n embellish
/ SelEkwEn(t)s / emanometer v
L n / DmSbelish /
discourse marked by apt and fluent / TemESnBmEZE(r) / F>E
diction and imaginative fervor. L + Gk enhance, amplify, or garnish (an
The defense lawyer addressed the any of various devices designed to account) by elaboration with
courtroom audience with measure quantities or intensity of a inessential but decorative or
eloquence. heavy gaseous element produced fanciful details.
by radioactive disintegration. Ivan likes to embellish his stories a
elucidate The emanometer detected little differently each time he tells
v dangerous amounts of radon in them.
/ DSlVsETdCt / Theo’s basement.
L embezzlement
make intelligible by clear embarcadero n
explanation or careful analysis. n / DmSbezElmEnt /
Belinda asked Mrs. Dent to / emTbBrkESde(T)rP / F > AF > E
elucidate the complicated essay L > Sp fraudulent appropriation of money
question. a landing place; especially : a by a person to whom it has been
landing place on an inland entrusted.
elutriation waterway. The FBI investigation led to the
An organ grinder and his monkey union leader’s indictment for
emaciated entertained visitors at the embezzlement.
adj embarcadero of the restored
/ DSmCshGTCZDd / village. emblazon
L v
made lean by impairment (as from embargo / DmSblCzFn /
hunger). n Lcf > Ecf + F > E
The emaciated cat stared at Tina / DmSbBr(T)gP / set off conspicuously (as by rich or
with hollow eyes. L > Sp brilliant decorations).
an edict or order of the government Andrea asked the seamstress to
emanation prohibiting the departure or entry emblazon the sweater with
n of ships of commerce at ports embroidered flowers.
/ TemESnCshEn / within its dominions.
L In defiance of the embargo, the emblem
a flowing forth. boat slipped out of the harbor at
The air was tainted with the musky night. embolism
emanation from the alligator pen. n
embarrass / SembETlizEm /
Gk
the sudden obstruction of a blood
vessel by a foreign or abnormal
particle (as a bubble of air or a
blood clot).
Careless administration of an
injection can cause an embolism.
Page 101 of 349

embouchure embryonic emissary
n adj n
/ SBmbVTshU(E)r / / TembrGSBnik / / SemETserG /
L>F Gk > L + Ecf L
the position and use of the lips in being in an early and undeveloped an agent or representative usually
producing a musical tone on a wind stage. empowered to act more or less
instrument. Delia disclosed embryonic plans independently.
After six weeks of criticism about for the new theater. Each government sent an emissary
her poor embouchure, Kirsten to the trade talks.
switched from the clarinet to the emerald
piano. n emolliate
/ Sem(E)rEld /
embracery Gk > L > F > E emollient
n a highly prized gemstone of rich adj
/ DmSbrCs(E)rG / green color. / DSmBlyEnt /
F>E Beth’s grandfather has a lovely L
the act of one who attempts to or unmounted emerald that he plans [Note: Could be confused with
acts so as to influence a court, jury, to give to her for a graduation emolument.] soothing especially to
or other office or officer corruptly present. the skin or mucous membrane.
(as by promises, money, or threats). Erna usually applies an emollient
After trying to bribe a juror, the emeritus cream to her hands after washing
mobster was arrested and charged adj dishes.
with embracery. / DSmerEZEs /
L emolument
embrasure retired from an office after gaining n
n recognition. / DSmBlyEmEnt /
/ DmSbrCzhE(r) / Our summer school teacher, Dr. L
F Benteen, is Professor Emeritus of [Note: Could be confused with
an opening with sides flaring history from Dartmouth University. emollient.] profit or perquisites
outward in a wall or parapet of a from office, employment, or labor.
fortification usually for allowing emigrant The waitress who did not report the
the firing of cannon. n tips portion of her emolument faced
Bobby and Jackie amused / SemDgrEnt / incarceration for tax evasion.
themselves during the castle tour L
by climbing into every embrasure [has near homonym: immigrant] a empanada
to look out the windows. person who leaves a country or n
region to establish permanent / TempESnBdE /
embrocate residence elsewhere. L > Sp
Sidney’s great-great-grandfather a turnover filled with meat.
embrocation was an Irish emigrant during the For the hike Luke packed an
n potato famine. empanada and an apple in his
/ TembrESkCshEn / knapsack.
Gk > L eminent
liniment. adj empathy
The fact that Della’s throat is so / SemEnEnt /
much better can be attributed to the L empennage
excellent embrocation her mother [has homonym and near n
applied regularly. homonyms: emanent and / TBmpESnBzh /
immanent, imminent] standing out Fcf + L + Fcf
embroidery so as to be readily perceived. the tail assembly of an aircraft.
The National Cathedral is a After the accident the FAA ordered
embryo building of eminent beauty. the airline to inspect the
empennage of every plane in its
eminently fleet.
emissaries
Page 102 of 349

emphatically emulate encore
adv n
/ DmSfaZDkElG / enamel / SBnTkP(E)r /
Gk L>F
in a markedly forceful manner. encephalitis the further appearance of a
At the school board meeting Jonah n performer or an additional
spoke emphatically in favor of / DnTsefESlIZDs / performance requested by an
requiring students to wear Gk audience.
uniforms. inflammation of the brain, The audience was so thrilled by the
especially when due to infectious singer’s rendition of the aria that it
emphysema agents or their toxins. cheered for an encore.
n The symptoms of encephalitis
/ Tem(p)fESzGmE / usually include fever, headache, encroachment
Gk and tremors. n
a condition characterized by air- / DnSkrPchTmEnt /
filled, blisterlike expansions in the enchilada Scand > F > E
tissues of the lungs. n advancement beyond set limits.
Most cases of emphysema are / enchESlBdE / When a football player enters the
caused by smoking. Sp neutral zone and makes contact
a tortilla topped or rolled up with a with an opponent before the ball is
empirical highly seasoned meat or other snapped, the head linesman will
adj filling and served with tomato penalize the team for
/ DmSpirDkEl / sauce seasoned with chili. encroachment.
Gk > L The sampler platter included a
originating in or relying or based taco, an enchilada, and a burrito. encumbrance
on factual information, observation,
or direct sense experience usually enclave encyclical
as opposed to theoretical n
knowledge. / SenTklCv / endemic
Epidemiologists rely heavily on L>F adj
empirical data in predicting the a district or region (as in a city) / enSdemik /
spread of a contagious disease. inhabited by a particular race or set Gk
apart for a special purpose. peculiar to a locality or region.
empleomania The Warsaw Ghetto was an Despite its name, Rocky Mountain
n infamous enclave during World spotted fever is not endemic to the
/ TemplGPSmCnGE / War II. western United States.
F > Sp + Gk > L
an excessive desire for holding enclitic endocrinology
public office.
Otis’s empleomania drove him to encomium endophytous
squander his fortune on political n adj
campaigns. / DnSkPmGEm / / enSdBfEZEs /
Gk Gk
emporium an often formal expression of warm living within the tissues of plants.
or high praise : eulogy. Most vascular plants could not
empyrean At the dedication of the war grow without the endophytous fungi
n memorial, the president offered an that inhabit their roots and supply
/ TemTpISrGEn / encomium for the fallen heroes. essential nutrients.
Gk > L
the highest heaven or heavenly
sphere in ancient and medieval
cosmology usually described as a
sphere of fire or light.
According to Ptolemy, there are
five heavens, the last of which is
called the “empyrean,” from the
Greek word meaning “fiery.”
emu
Page 103 of 349

endorphin enfilade enlightenment
n n n
/ enSdOrfDn / / SenfETlCd / / DnSlItFnmEnt /
Gk > ISV F Ecf + E + Ecf
any of a group of proteins with arrangement (as of rooms, the act or means of furnishing with
potent pain-killing properties that doorways, trees) in opposite and useful information.
occur naturally in the brain. parallel rows. The rules of the debate will be
In long-distance runners, elevated The hallway of the huge hotel was posted on the bulletin board for the
blood levels of endorphin can seemingly endless, with an enfilade enlightenment of all participants.
prevent the pain of sustained of doors appearing to grow ever
exertion. tinier in the distance. enmity
n
endorsement enfranchisement / SenmEZG /
n L>F
endow / DnSfranTchIzmEnt / hostility, animosity.
F>E The enmity which Mr. and Mrs.
endurable the act of endowing with a Elton dared not show in open
constitutional or statutory right or disrespect to Miss Woodhouse
energetic privilege; especially : the act of found a broader vent in
adj endowing with the right to vote. contemptuous treatment of her best
/ TenE(r)SjeZik / It is hard to believe today that friend.
Gk segments of American society were
marked by energy. once denied enfranchisement. ennead
The energetic captain kept the
police force ready for any engineer enneastyle
emergency. n adj
/ TenjDSni(E)r / / SenGETstIl /
enervate F>E Gk + Gk
v a person trained to plan and marked with columniation with
/ SenE(r)TvCt / supervise projects in a technical nine columns across the front.
L field. The new monument has an
[has near homonym with opposite The chief engineer and his team enneastyle arrangement with
meaning: innervate] lessen the designed a flood control plan for Corinthian columns.
nerve, vitality, or strength of. the city.
Being outside in the heat of the day ennui
would enervate Grandma, so she engrossed n
weeds her garden in the cool hours adj / BnSwG /
of early morning. / DnSgrPst / F
L > AF > E languor or emptiness of spirit :
enervated completely occupied or absorbed. boredom.
adj Engrossed in her book, Mary did Though she claimed to dislike
/ SenE(r)TvCZDd / not hear her mother’s repeated school, Tara felt a certain ennui
L calls for her to come downstairs. when not doing something
lacking physical, mental, or moral academic.
vigor. enhance
After the 15-mile mountain hike, ensconce
Marsha found herself completely enigmatic v
enervated. adj / DnzSkBn(t)s /
/ Te(T)nigSmaZik / L>F>E
Gk > L place or hide (as oneself) securely :
inexplicable, puzzling. conceal.
Marla scribbled an enigmatic Jared was able to ensconce himself
message on Lance’s arm cast. behind the sofa before his brother
came looking for him.
ensconced
Page 104 of 349

ensemble entomologist enunciate
n n v
/ BnSsBmbEl / / TentESmBlEjDst / / GSnEn(t)sGTCt /
L>F Gk L
a group of supporting players, one specializing in the study of utter articulate sounds.
singers, or dancers. insects. Mr. Dubek reminded Val to stand
The principals in the play were Dirk has wanted to be an straight and enunciate clearly.
ably supported by the ensemble. entomologist since he was in the
third grade. enunciator
ensilage
entourage environs
entablature n n pl
/ TBntESrBzh / / DnSvIrEnz /
entangled L>F L>F>E
adj one’s attendants or subordinates. vicinity, neighborhood.
/ DnStaNgEld / The rock star and his entourage Residents of the subdivision and its
E occupied an entire floor of the immediate environs are eligible to
involved in a perplexing or hotel. join the neighborhood pool
troublesome situation from which association.
escape is difficult. entrance
Several birds got entangled in the envisage
net Mr. Cantrell placed over his entrecote v
cherry tree. n / DnSvizij /
/ BMtrETkPPt / F
entente L>F have a mental picture of in advance
n a steak cut from between the ribs; of realization.
/ BnStBnt / sometimes : sirloin. Benjamin could scarcely envisage
L>F Martha’s health-conscious brother the scale of the project, so he broke
a written or unwritten international turned down an entrecote in favor it down into smaller, more
understanding usually less formally of a flank steak. manageable units.
binding than an alliance.
The president decided that her entremets envisagement
government’s policy of isolationism n pl
would not be broken by an entente. / TBntrESmC(z) / enzyme
L>F n
entertain dishes (as vegetables or savories) / SenTzIm /
served in addition to the main Gk
enthymeme course of a meal. any of a very large class of
n At some restaurants, entremets complex proteinaceous substances
/ Sen(t)thETmGm / must be ordered separately from that are produced by living cells
Gk the main course. and that are essential to life by
an argument or truncated syllogism acting as catalysts.
in which one of the propositions is entrepreneur Emil Fischer theorized in 1894 that
understood but not stated. n an enzyme acts like a lock to which
A good example of an enthymeme is / TBntrEp(r)ESnEr / a certain reactant is the key.
the statement “We are dependent; L>F
therefore, we should be humble.” the organizer of an economic ephapse
entitle venture; especially : one who
organizes, owns, manages, and
entomogenous assumes the risks of a business.
adj The local college gives accounting
/ TentESmBjEnEs / classes for the first-time
Gk entrepreneur.
growing on or in the bodies of
insects. enumerate
Some scale insects that feed on
trees have entomogenous fungi.
Page 105 of 349

ephedrine epidemic epistemology
n n
/ DSfedrDn / epidermis / DTpistESmBlEjG /
Gk n Gk
a white crystalline alkaloid used / TepESdErmDs / the study of the method and
often in the form of a salt (as the Gk grounds of knowledge especially
sulfate) chiefly in relieving hay the outer layer of the skin of a with reference to its limits and
fever, asthma, and nasal vertebrate. validity; broadly : the theory of
congestion. The paper cut, though painful, knowledge.
Ephedrine has been used to treat barely broke Kayla’s epidermis. The middle books of Plato’s
the bronchoconstriction associated Republic are the key to his
with asthma. epigram epistemology.
n
ephemeral / SepETgram / epistle
Gk
ephemeris a short poem with a witty or epistolary
n satirical point. adj
/ DSfem(E)rDs / Kelly kept a calendar on her desk / DSpistETlerG /
Gk that gave a humorous epigram for L
a publication giving the computed each day of the year. written in the form of a series of
places of the celestial bodies for letters.
each day of the year. epilepsy Evan read four epistolary novels
Tracy’s attorney consulted an n last summer.
ephemeris to verify her story about / SepETlepsG /
having seen Venus on the morning Gk epistrophe
of the crime. a chronic nervous disorder of
humans and other animals that epitaph
epicede involves changes in the state of
n consciousness and of motion. epitaphs
/ SepETsGd / Epilepsy is sometimes caused by n pl
Gk glandular disturbances. / SepETtafs /
a funeral song or ode. Gk
The poet laureate composed an epiphany inscriptions on or at tombs or
epicede for the queen’s funeral. n graves in memory of those buried
/ DSpifEnG / there.
epicure Gk For amusement the children like to
an appearance or revelatory read the epitaphs in the old church
epicurean manifestation of a divine being or a cemetery.
adj god.
/ TepDSkyErGEn / Apuleius’s Metamorphoses epitasis
Gk name > L + Ecf includes a description of an n
stimulating and satisfying to the epiphany of the goddess Isis. / DSpiZEsDs /
senses. Gk
The presentation of the epicurean episcopacy the part of a play developing the
dishes was as delightful as their main action and leading to the
taste and aroma. episode catastrophe.
n During the epitasis the characters
epicycle / SepETsPd / developed relationships that would
n Gk complicate their lives.
/ SepETsIkEl / the part of a radio, television, or
Gk motion-picture serial presented at epithet
a circle in which a planet moves one performance. n
and which has a center that is itself The ending of each episode of the / SepETthet /
carried around at the same time on soap opera left one wanting to see Gk
the circumference of a larger circle. the next episode. a disparaging or abusive word or
Ancient astronomers used the phrase.
epicycle to explain their theory that Donnie apologized for shouting an
Earth is at the center of the solar epithet at Mr. Garibaldi.
system.
Page 106 of 349

epitome equanimity equilibrium
n n
epitomize / TGkwESnimEZG / / TGkwESlibrGEm /
v L L
/ DSpiZETmIz / evenness of mental disposition : a state of dynamic balance attained
Gk emotional balance especially under in a reversible chemical reaction
serve as the typical representation stress. when the velocities in both
of. The writer learned to accept with directions are equal.
Sharon’s choice of clothing must equanimity the rejections from Marge injected a flask of colorless
surely be an attempt to epitomize publishers. nitrogen dioxide with dinitrogen
bad taste. tetroxide, a brown gas, to illustrate
equation chemical equilibrium: When
epizootic equilibrium occurred, the gas in the
adj equator flask stopped becoming browner.
/ TepEzESwBZik / n
Gk / GSkwCZE(r) / equine
of or relating to a disease affecting L
many animals of one kind at the the great circle of the celestial equinoctial
same time. sphere whose plane is adj
Great measures are being taken to perpendicular to the axis of Earth. / TGkwESnBkshEl /
ensure that the epizootic foot-and- Spring begins when the Sun moves L>F>E
mouth disease does not enter the north across the equator. relating to either of the two times
United States. each year when the Sun crosses the
equatorial equator and day and night are
epoch adj everywhere of equal length.
/ TGkwEStPrGEl / Marge began making preparations
epoche L for her annual spring equinoctial
of, at, or relating to the equator. festival.
eponymous The length of the days and nights
adj doesn’t vary much in equatorial equinox
/ DSpBnEmEs / regions. n
Gk + Ecf / SGkwETnBks /
bearing the name of, being, or equestrienne L>E
relating to one for whom or which either of the two times each year
something is named. equilateral when the Sun crosses the equator
Jason will play the role of Julius and day and night are everywhere
Caesar in the drama club’s equilibrist of equal length, being about March
presentation of the eponymous n 21st and September 23rd.
play. / TGkwESlibrDst / Legend has it that you can balance
L>F an egg on its end only during the
epopee one who balances himself in equinox.
unnatural positions and performs
epyllion hazardous movements. equipage
n Of all the acts in the circus, Yancy
/ eSpilGEn / liked the equilibrist best. equipment
Gk
a relatively short narrative poem equipoise
resembling an epic in theme, tone, v
or style. / SekwETpOiz /
Is “Hiawatha” short enough to be L+L>F
considered an epyllion? put or hold in a state of equilibrium
or balance.
Tod’s efforts to equipoise the
opposing interests of the two
groups enabled them to coexist
civilly.
equipped
Page 107 of 349

equitable eremology erudite
n adj
equity / TerESmBlEjG / / SeryETdIt /
n Gk + Gk L>E
/ SekwEZG / a science concerned with the desert characterized by a love of
L and its phenomena. knowledge for its own sake :
the money value of a property or of Professor Heath’s research on devoted to the pursuit of learning.
an interest in a property in excess desert flora was hailed as a The speaker’s presentation was a
of claims or liens (as mortgaged significant contribution to compilation of research that would
indebtedness) against it. eremology. interest only the most erudite
During the three-year real estate scholars in his field.
boom, Jan’s home equity went up ergot
300%. n erudition
/ SErgEt / n
equivalent F / TeryESdishEn /
adj a fungal disease of rye and other L
/ DSkwiv(E)lEnt / cereals. an extensive knowledge acquired
L An outbreak of ergot destroyed Mr. chiefly from books.
corresponding or virtually identical Kern’s crop. The schoolmaster was esteemed as
especially in effect or function. a man of great erudition.
Butter and margarine are ermine
equivalent in most recipes. n erumpent
/ SErmDn /
equivocate Gmc > F > E escalator
v any of several weasels that assume
/ DSkwivETkCt / white winter fur usually with more escamotage
L or less black on the tail. n
avoid committing oneself in what Despite the outcry of animal / eskAmOtAAzh /
one says : speak evasively. activists, the fine fur of the ermine F
When confronted with the facts, is still used for ornamentation of juggling, hand trickery.
Bernie realized it would do no good some designer clothing. The street magician accompanied
to equivocate. his deft escamotage with jokes and
errancy a distracting patter.
eradicable
errand escargot
eradicate n
v erroneous / eskArgP /
/ DSradETkCt / OProv > F
L ersatz a snail prepared for use as food.
[has homonym with opposite adj Saul fished the escargot out of its
meaning: irradicate] do away with / SerTzBts / shell with a tiny fork and popped it
: destroy completely. G into his mouth.
Many wheat farmers use aerial substitute, synthetic : simulated.
sprays to eradicate weeds, Because copper was needed for escarpment
diseases, and insect pests from armaments, pennies were made n
their fields. with an ersatz material during / DSskBrpmEnt /
World War II. F
erasable a long cliff or steep slope
adj erubescent separating two comparatively level
/ DSrCsEbEl / adj or more gently sloping surfaces.
L / Ter(y)ESbesFnt / From the top of the escarpment,
capable of being rubbed or scraped L Peter had a commanding view of
out or removed from existence or becoming red : reddening. both baseball fields.
memory. Eufemia’s erubescent complexion
Penelope signed the contract with made her embarrassment obvious. eschew
erasable ink.
erasure
Page 108 of 349

eschewal espionage estoppel
n n n
/ Ds(h)SchVEl / / SespGETnBzh / / DSstBpEl /
Gmc > F > E F F
shunning, avoidance. the practice of spying or using spies a legal preclusion by which one is
Peter’s eschewal of anything to obtain information about the prevented from alleging something
containing peanuts or peanut oil is plans and activities especially of a previously denied or denying
a matter of life and death. foreign government or a competing something previously alleged.
company. Because his previous statement was
esconson After discovering that Mr. on record, an estoppel prevented
Carmichael had sold company Tom from changing his position.
escritoire trade secrets to a competitor, his
n employer charged him with estrepement
/ SeskrETtwBr / industrial espionage. n
L>F / DSstrGpmEnt /
a piece of furniture resembling a esplanade F > AF
bureau and providing a writing n waste or needless destruction of
surface or desk area behind a / SesplETnBd / lands; especially : damage wrought
hinged front that drops down. L > It > F by a tenant for life.
Jennifer bought a valuable 18th- a level open stretch of paved or The tenant’s estrepement of the
century escritoire at Sotheby’s. grassy ground; especially : one farm had made the land almost
designed for walking or driving and useless.
escrow often providing a vista (as over
water). estuarine
esoteric Carole decided to go for a stroll on
adj the esplanade before dinner. estuary
/ TesESterik / n
Gk espresso / Ses(h)chETwerG /
difficult to understand. L
Phil found the article on essence a water passage where the tide
metaphysics too esoteric. n meets the current of a stream.
/ SesFn(t)s / Small boats were warned not to
espadrille L travel the estuary without aid.
n an extract (as from fruit) used as
/ SespETdril / flavoring in cooking. esurient
L > Prov > F Tatiana could taste the adj
a flat sandal having a fabric upper pomegranate essence in the cake’s / DSsUrGEnt /
and a flexible often rope sole. frosting. L
Marsha put on her other espadrille having a huge appetite : greedy.
and headed for the beach. estaminet Which one of you esurient fellows
n ordered the extra-large pizza?
espalier / estAmGnC / ethnic
Gmc > F
espaliers a small café : bistro. ethos
n pl While driving through Belgium,
/ DSspalyErz / Jeff and Linda stopped at a etiolation
L > It > F charming estaminet for lunch. n
fruit trees or other plants trained to / TGZGESlCshEn /
grow flat against a building, wall, esteem F
railing, trellis, or other support. the yellowing or whitening of a
Harriet walked up the broad and estimable green plant through lack of
neat gravel walk, which led adj sunlight.
between rows of espaliers to the / SestEmEbEl / Rhonda uses a special lamp on her
front door. L houseplants to prevent etiolation.
worthy of esteem or respect.
especially The statesman had a tarnished
youth but is now, in many ways, an
estimable figure.
Page 109 of 349

etiquette Euhemerism eureka
n n interj
/ SeZDkDt / / yVShGmETrizEm / / yESrGkE /
F Gk name Gk
the forms required by good a theory held by the Greek used to express triumph
breeding or prescribed by authority mythographer Euhemerus that the concerning a discovery.
to be observed in social or official gods of mythology were but deified A loud “Eureka!” emanated from
life. mortals. the chemistry laboratory.
The defendant’s attorney advised While studying Euhemerism, Serjei
him on the observance of learned that the god Vulcan was eurytherm
courtroom etiquette. the first to discover how to make n
bronze and iron. / SyUrEthErm /
etymology Gk + Gk
n eulogy an organism that tolerates a wide
/ TeZESmBlEjG / n range of temperature.
Gk > L > E / SyVlEjG / Whereas some animals hibernate
a branch of linguistics concerned Gk during the winter, a eurytherm is
with the complete history of a a composition (as a set oration) in active throughout the cold months.
linguistic form (as a word or commendation of someone or
morpheme). something (as of the character and eustacy
Students have rated Dr. Bailly’s accomplishments of a deceased
class in etymology the best course person). eutaxy
in the English department. The university president delivered a n
moving eulogy at the funeral of the / SyVTtaksG /
etymon dean. Gk
n good order or management.
/ SeZETmBn / eupeptic Rose’s Christmas decoration
Gk adj routine was an example of the
the word in a foreign language that / yVSpeptik / eutaxy she practiced constantly.
is the source of a particular Gk
loanword. cheerful, optimistic. euthanasia
The etymon of the English word The eupeptic president put the
cantata is the same word in Italian. people at ease about the nation’s euthenics
economy. n pl
eucalyptus / yVStheniks /
n euphemism Gk
/ TyVkESliptEs / n a science that deals with
Gk / SyVfETmizEm / developing human well-being and
a tree or shrub native to western Gk efficient functioning through the
Australia. a polite term used to avoid the improvement of environmental
Brad planted a eucalyptus in the direct naming of an unpleasant conditions.
vain hope of attracting koalas. reality. As the world becomes more
Marjorie referred to her illness populated, people pay more
eudaemonic with a vague euphemism. attention to the relevance of
adj euthenics.
/ TyVdGSmBnik / euphoric
Gk adj eutrophic
producing happiness : based on the / yVSfOrik / adj
idea of happiness as the proper end Gk / yVStrBfik /
of conduct. characterized by a feeling of well- Gk + Gk
The company’s decision to being or elation. of a lake : rich in dissolved
eliminate production quotas had a The golfer was absolutely euphoric nutrients but frequently shallow
eudaemonic effect on all the after making a hole in one. and with seasonal oxygen
workers. deficiency.
Since the 1970s the use of
phosphates in detergents has been
banned in some states because they
make lakes eutrophic.
Page 110 of 349

evaluate evocative excise
v adj n
/ DSvalyETwCt / / DSvBkEZiv / / SekTsIz /
L>F>E L D
examine and judge concerning the tending to call forth an emotional any of various taxes on privileges
worth, quality, significance, response. (as of engaging in a particular trade
amount, degree, or condition of. Kathy sang an evocative ballad or sport) that are often assessed in
The company sent Chris to evaluate about her emigrant grandparents. the form of a license or other fee.
the project’s potential for profit. An excise is included in the cost of
evoke a fishing license.
evanescent v
adj / DSvPk / exclamation
/ TevESnesFn(t) / L n
L call forth or up : summon. / TeksklESmCshEn /
of short life or duration : fleeting. For Eva, the first crisp days of L
The joy and moral stimulation of autumn always evoke memories of vehement expression (as of protest,
work is often forgotten in the mad her semester in England. reproach, or complaint).
chase of evanescent profits. Trudy gave a loud exclamation as
exacerbate the plane took off without her.
evaporable v
/ igSzasE(r)bCt / exclamatorily
evidentiary L
adj make more violent or bitter : excoriate
/ TevESdench(E)rG / intensify the bad qualities of. v
L + Ecf Cindy learned how name-calling / ekSskPrGTCt /
being, relating to, or affording could exacerbate an already violent L
evidence. argument. censure scathingly.
Because he is not an expert in Mr. Dent proceeded to excoriate
forensics, Harvey's opinion has no exaggerate Ellen in front of the entire pep
evidentiary value. v squad.
/ igSzajETrCt /
evildoer L exculpate
n misrepresent on the side of v
/ SGvElTdVE(r) / largeness (as of size, extent, or / Sek(T)skElTpCt /
E value) : overstate the truth. L
one who does wicked deeds. Like any fisherman, Tio tends to clear from alleged fault or guilt.
The prosecutor portrayed the exaggerate the size of his catches. Greg is positive that the honor
defendant as a friendly face with council will exculpate him after a
the heart of an evildoer. example thorough investigation.
evincible exanimate excursion
eviscerate exaration exedent

v
/ DSvisETrCt / excelsior exemplary
L adj
take out the entrails of : excerpta / igSzemplErG /
disembowel, gut. L
The chef showed his apprentice exchequer deserving imitation : commendable.
how to eviscerate a fish. Hubert was praised for his
exemplary conduct.
eviternity
exercise
Page 111 of 349

exhaustion exoskeleton expiate
n n v
/ igSzOschEn / / TeksPSskelEtFn / / SekspGTCt /
L Gk + Gk > L L
weariness following overstrain or an external supportive or protective extinguish the guilt incurred by :
overexertion. structure or framework of an insect. make conciliation for.
Vance collapsed from exhaustion An exoskeleton provides protection Buddhist doctrine holds that one
after running the marathon. for an insect, much like a suit of must expiate the sins committed in
armor. past lives.
exhibit
exotic exploit
exhilarate adj n
/ igSzBZik / / SekTsplOit /
exhortation Gk L>F>E
from another country : not native to deed, act.
exigency the place where found. Sarah’s first exploit in baking
Little did Polly know that the exotic resulted in a burned pie and
exiguous bird she bought had been illegally charred juice in the oven.
adj smuggled into the country.
/ egSzigyEwEs / explosive
L expatiate adj
scanty in amount : meager, narrow. v / ikSsplPTsiv /
Fran’s father disapproves of her / ekSspCshGTCt / L + Ecf
plan to use her exiguous savings L of or relating to the act of violently
for the down payment on a speak or write at length or in expanding and bursting.
motorcycle. considerable detail. Witnesses told the arson
The mighty bulk of the whale investigator that two men ran from
existential affords a congenial theme whereon the side door of the warehouse
to enlarge, amplify, and expatiate. moments before the explosive fire.
exonerate
v expatriate expostulate
/ igSzBnETrCt / v
L expectorant / ikSspBschETlCt /
clear from accusation or blame. L
DNA analysis has the potential expeditious reason earnestly with a person for
either to exonerate suspects or to adj purposes of dissuasion or
place them at the scene of the / TekspESdishEs / remonstrance.
crime. L Nelson takes every opportunity to
acting with promptness or expostulate about politics with
exonerated efficiency : speedy. strangers on the subway.
Mrs. Elton boasted that her horses
exoneration were extremely expeditious and expunge
that her carriage probably drove v
exorbitant faster than anyone else’s. / ikSspEnj /
adj L+L
/ igSzO(r)bEZEnt / expensive strike out, obliterate, or mark for
L>F>E adj deletion (as a word, line, or
excessive. / ikSspen(t)siv / sentence).
The ferryman charged an L Jeff agreed to expunge the word
exorbitant rate to carry people characterized by high price or cost. stupid from his book report.
across the strait. The concert tickets were expensive,
but the event sold out a month exquisite
before the performance date.
exsculptate
Page 112 of 349

exsiccate extirpate extravaganza
v v n
/ SeksDTkCt / / SekstE(r)TpCt / / ikTstravESganzE /
L+L L L > It
drive moisture from (as by the pull up or out by or as if by the a lavish or spectacular show or
action of heat). roots or stem. event.
Sara wants to exsiccate the plums Fay made it her mission to The Mardi Gras extravaganza in
she picked to see if they will really extirpate every weed in the lawn. New Orleans has several carnival-
turn into prunes. like parades.
extract
exsuccous extravasate
adj extraneous v
/ ek(s)SsEkEs / adj / ikSstravETsCt /
L+L / ekSstrCnGEs / L
devoid of all juices or sap : dried L pour out or erupt.
up. existing or originating outside or When extreme heat and pressure
The exsuccous orange in Tamra’s beyond. build within a volcano, molten lava
locker must have been left there Leona didn’t let extraneous noises may extravasate into the air.
months ago. bother her while she was studying.
extricate
exsufflation extraordinarily v
adv / SekstrETkCt /
extemporaneous / ikTstrO(r)dFnSerDlG / L
adj L pull out.
/ TekTstempESrCnGEs / in a manner beyond what is usual, When the whistle blew, Jason tried
L regular, common, or customary. to extricate himself from the bottom
composed, performed, or uttered on Dr. Miller told us that Brutus was of the pile of players.
or as if on the spur of the moment. extraordinarily frisky this morning.
Suzi gave an extemporaneous talk exuberance
about bonsai at the craft club extraordinary
meeting. exuberant
extrapolate adj
extempore v / igSzVb(E)rEnt /
/ ikSstrapETlCt / L
extensive L+L>E joyously unrestrained and
infer from a trend within an already enthusiastic.
extinct observed interval. The students at Payton Middle
adj From the data she had collected so School gave the visiting astronaut
/ ikSstiN(k)t / far, Mirna tried to extrapolate a an exuberant welcome.
L>E preliminary conclusion about the
no longer living : deceased, dead. insect population of the state. fabiform
Latin is an extinct language. adj
extraterrestrial / SfCbETfOrm /
extinguish adj L + Ecf
v / ekstrETtDSrestrGEl / [has near homonym: faviform]
/ ikSstiNgwish / L shaped like a bean.
L + Ecf originating or existing outside Jodie is having a fabiform
cause (as a fire or light) to cease Earth or its atmosphere. swimming pool installed in her
burning. The shiny rock appeared to Zelda backyard.
Procedure dictated that Lenny to be extraterrestrial.
extinguish his car’s headlights fabled
before approaching the
guardhouse. fabricate
facade
Page 113 of 349

facetiosity factotum faineant
n n adj
/ fETsGshGSBsEZG / / fakStPZEm / / SfCnGEnt /
L + Ecf L F
the quality or state of being jocular a person having many diverse idle and ineffectual.
in an often clumsy or inappropriate activities or responsibilities : a Lack of purpose can contribute to a
way. general servant. faineant life.
Mrs. Foster did not appreciate Mrs. Alexander has so many
Barney’s facetiosity during her responsibilities not related to faint
history class. instruction that she feels more like
a factotum than a teacher. faithful
facetious n pl
facula / SfCthfEl /
facial n E
/ SfakyElE / adherents of a system of religious
facile L belief.
adj any of the bright regions of the The pope spoke to the faithful from
/ SfasEl / Sun’s photosphere seen most easily his balcony, asking them to pray
L near the Sun’s edge and occurring for the future of the world.
easily accomplished or attained. most frequently in proximity to
Sarpedon’s facile backgammon sunspots. falbala
victory over his sister made him Seymour tracked the Sun’s rotation
suspicious of her intent. by charting the position of a facula. falcate
adj
facilely facultative / SfalTkCt /
adv L
/ SfasEl(l)G / faculties hooked or curved like a sickle—
L + Ecf n pl used also of the Moon or an
in an easy manner : with ease or / SfakEltGz / inferior planet when less than half
assurance. L>F>E its disk is illuminated.
Andy sat down at the piano and inherent capabilities, powers, or The Moon’s falcate form loomed
played facilely through a book of functions. above the horizon.
show tunes. While Barbara was recovering
from eye surgery she had to rely falcon
facilitate more on her faculties of hearing
and smelling. faldstool
facilitator
n faddist fallacious
/ fESsilETtCZ(E)r /
L + Ecff Fahrenheit fallacy
one that makes something easier or adj n
less difficult. / SfarEnThIt / / SfalEsG /
As a teacher, Mr. Logan considers G name L
himself a facilitator of learning relating or conforming to a a false or erroneous idea.
rather than a dispenser of thermometric scale on which under Though Ben’s argument may seem
information. standard atmospheric pressure the plausible, it is pure fallacy.
boiling point of water is at 212
faconne degrees and the freezing point at 32 fallibility
degrees. n
facsimile Nathan knew it was hot outside, but / TfalESbilEZG /
n he was astonished to learn that the L
/ fakSsimElG / temperature was 100 degrees liability or proneness to err.
L Fahrenheit. The executive pardon can be seen
an exact and detailed copy. as a recognition of the fallibility of
Jared bought a facsimile of Noah faille our system of justice.
Webster’s 1828 dictionary.
factitious
Page 114 of 349

fallow fandango farcical
adj n adj
/ Sfa(T)lP / / fanSdaN(T)gP / / SfBrsDkEl /
E Pg? > Sp L
left untilled or unsown after a lively Spanish dance usually receiving or meriting laughter or
plowing. performed by a man and woman amused scorn as utterly without
Miriam has big plans for the patch with castanets and in triple time. claim to serious consideration or as
of fallow ground in her backyard. Craig and Ursula danced a laughably inept.
fandango in the high school talent Shakespeare employs farcical
falsetto competition. characters in many of his plays to
n provide comic relief.
/ fOlSseZ(T)P / fanfaronade
L > It farcically
an artificially high voice. fantasize
Dad draped a mop over his head v farewell
and sang “Mary Had a Little / SfantETsIz /
Lamb” in falsetto. Gk > L > F > E + Ecf farinaceous
create or develop imaginative and adj
falsify often fantastic views, ideas, or / TfarESnCshEs /
explanations. L
familiar After Calvin was elected to the containing or rich in starch.
adj student council, all he ever did was Common farinaceous foods include
/ fESmilyE(r) / fantasize about becoming president bread and pasta.
L>F>E of the United States.
frequently seen or experienced. faro
Sandy was chosen for the job fantoccini
because she was familiar with n pl farouche
computers. / TfBntESchGnG / adj
L > It / fESrVsh /
famish puppets moved by strings or L>F
v mechanical devices. lacking social graces and
/ Sfamish / So many spectators stopped to experience : marked by shyness
E watch the fantoccini that the puppet and lack of polish.
deprive of food : starve. shows had to be moved to one of As a teenager, Inez was rather
The war will famish many people the park’s larger amphitheaters. farouche, hesitant to make eye
trapped in the besieged city. contact with strangers.
farad
fanaticism n farraginous
n / SfaTrad /
/ fESnaZETsizEm / E name farrago
L + Ecf the practical meter-kilogram- n
excessive enthusiasm and intense second unit of capacitance equal to / fESrB(T)gP /
uncritical devotion usually toward the capacitance of a capacitor L
some controversial matter (as between whose plates there appears a confused, disordered, or irrational
religion, politics, or philosophy). a potential of 1 volt when it is assemblage (as of words or ideas).
Throughout history, political charged by 1 coulomb. The candidate’s concession speech
fanaticism has led to many violent Todd calculated the necessary was a rambling farrago that
wars. capacitance of the insulation to be underscored his instability.
exactly 1 farad.
fanchonette
n
/ TfanchESnet /
F
an open tart covered with meringue
or sometimes whipped cream.
Randy ordered a lemon fanchonette
for dessert.
Page 115 of 349

farthingale fathom faveolate
n n adj
/ SfBrLDnTgCl / / SfaLEm / / fESvGElDt /
L > Sp > F E L
a support worn especially in the a unit of length equal to 6 feet honeycombed.
16th century beneath a skirt to based on the distance between The tiny chapel had a faveolate
swell out and extend it at the hip fingertips of a man’s outstretched ceiling.
line. arms and used especially for
No lady-in-waiting at the court of measuring the depth of water. fealty
Queen Elizabeth I would have been The fathom, once standard on n
seen in public without a British admiralty charts, has been / SfG(E)ltG /
farthingale. replaced by the meter. L>F>E
faithfulness, allegiance.
fascinate fatigue One by one, the nobles knelt before
n the queen and swore fealty to the
fascine / fEStGg / crown.
F
fascism weariness from work or exertion. feasibility
n Fatigue results from doing too n
/ SfaTshizEm / much too fast. / TfGzESbilEZG /
L L>F>E
any program for setting up a fatuous the capability of being done,
centralized autocratic national adj executed, or effected.
regime with severely nationalistic / SfachEwEs / Engineers are studying the
policies exercising rigid censorship L feasibility of constructing a tunnel
and forcible suppression of marked by want of intelligence and under the river.
opposition. rational consideration.
Given the current regime’s fascism, Lenny characterized Nestor’s feasible
a coup was inevitable. attempts to build a perpetual adj
motion machine as fatuous. / SfGzEbEl /
fashion L>F>E
faucet capable of being done, executed, or
fastidious effected.
fauna Because our Constitution is simple
fastish n and practical, it is feasible to meet
adj / SfOnE / extraordinary needs by making
/ Sfastish / L changes without loss of essential
E animals in general or animal life form.
rather speedy. especially as distinguished from
Jane’s mutt was a fastish runner flora. feature
despite its injured leg. The customs agent asked Bart if he
was bringing any flora or fauna febrifugal
fatal into the country. adj
adj / fESbrif(y)DgEl /
/ SfCZFl / Fauntleroy L
L&F > E adj mitigating or removing fever.
causing death. / SfOntlETrOi / Aspirin is well known for its
The cholera had broken out in its E literary name analgesic and febrifugal properties.
most fatal form. characterized by a short tailored
jacket, knee-length trousers, rather febrility
frilly shirt, wide collar with n
rounded corners, or large loose / fDSbrilEZG /
bow. L
Lulu’s masterpiece was a painting feverishness.
of her little brother dressed in a As her febrility increased, the
Fauntleroy costume, holding their patient became delirious.
basset hound by its collar.
Page 116 of 349

feckless felicitous femoral
adj adj adj
/ SfekTlDs / / fDSlisEZEs / / SfemErEl /
E L L
impractical and shiftless. marked by general happiness or [has homonym: femerell] of,
Mort was worried that his long good fortune. relating to, or located near the
periods of unemployment would All of Rob’s college roommates thigh.
make him look feckless when he showed up for the felicitous The femoral artery supplies blood
applied for a job. occasion of his wedding. to the abdomen and lower
extremities.
fecund felicity
adj n fenestrated
/ SfGkEnd / / fDSlisEZG / adj
L L / SfenETstrCZDd /
marked by noteworthy intellectual the quality or state of being happy. L
productivity and inventiveness. Liberty from British rule became provided with or characterized by
The Renaissance was a fecund era more and more necessary for the windows.
for the arts. felicity of the American colonists. Symmetrically fenestrated buildings
characterize Georgian
federal feliform architecture.
adj
fedora / SfGlETfOrm / fenestration
n L + Lcf > Ecf
/ fDSdPrE / resembling a cat. fennel
F name Eric found a feliform stone in a n
a soft felt hat with a low crown cave. / SfenFl /
creased lengthwise and with or L>E
without a high roll on the side brim. felonious a perennial European herb
Brent stepped into the spotlight and introduced to North America and
pulled his fedora low over one eye. felsenmeer cultivated for the aromatic flavor of
n its seeds.
feign / SfelzEnTme(E)r / Celene often flavors her vegetables
G with curry powder and fennel.
feigned an assemblage of rock fragments
completely mantling the surface feracious
feigning and commonly present in adj
v mountainous regions. / fESrCshEs /
/ fCniN / Our guide showed us a field of L
L>F>E felsenmeer formed from underlying producing abundantly : prolific.
simulating falsely. bedrock by the action produced by Sylvia decided to can some of the
Darla wondered if her mother was frost. tomatoes from her extraordinarily
feigning good feelings about her feracious plants.
decision to marry Edgar. feminine
adj feral
feint / SfemEnDn / adj
v L / SferEl /
/ SfCnt / female. L
F The feminine characters were lacking a human personality due to
make a pretense of. played by men and the masculine being reared in isolation from all or
George broke his hand when he characters were played by women nearly all human contacts.
attempted to feint a punch at the in Cornell Theatre’s production of The television executive rejected
wall but overshot his target. King Lear. the idea of another series about a
feral child trying to adjust to
felicific modern culture.
Page 117 of 349

feretory ferruminate fianchetto
n v v
/ SferETtPrG / / fESrVmETnCt / / TfGEnScheZ(T)P /
Gk > L L F + It
a place for keeping an ornate coffin join together (as metals) : solder. move (a bishop) in a chess game to
for the relics of a saint. Fortunately, Tom’s dad was able to the position Knight 2.
Every two hours the monks at the ferruminate the broken parts of the The analysts correctly predicted
shrine of St. Dionysios in Greece metal toy. that Evangeline would fianchetto
perform a prayer service and open her bishop.
the feretory for viewing. fervent
adj fiasco
fermata / SfErvEnt / n
n L / fGSa(T)skP /
/ ferSmBZE / of great intensity; specifically : Gmc > It
L > It characterized by often deep an utter and often ridiculous failure
a prolongation at the discretion of intensity of feeling or expression. especially of an ambitious or
the performer of a musical note, Natalia’s remorseful look and pretentious undertaking.
chord, or rest beyond its given time fervent plea for leniency did not The attempt to distribute campaign
value. sway the vice-principal. leaflets by air turned into a fiasco
To the conductor’s consternation, when the wind changed direction.
Dean exaggerated each fermata. fervorous
adj fibrillar
fermeture / SfErv(E)rEs /
L fibrillation
ferocious full of intensity of feeling or n
expression. / TfibrESlCshEn /
ferraiolone The crowd couldn’t help but be L
swayed by Greg’s fervorous very rapid irregular contractions of
ferret speech. the muscle fibers of the heart
n resulting in a lack of synchronism
/ SferDt / fescue between heartbeat and pulse beat.
L>F>E Ventricular fibrillation is a
a semidomesticated variety of the festoon condition in which the heart
European polecat. twitches haphazardly instead of
Carl’s ferret comes to him for a festucine propelling blood forward in an
reward every time he squeezes a adj organized way.
squeaky toy. / Sfest(y)ETsIn /
L fibrositis
ferrous of the color straw yellow.
Dorothy’s blue eyes suited her fibrous
ferrule festucine hair. adj
n / SfIbrEs /
/ SferEl / feud L
L>F>E n containing, consisting of, or like
[has homonym: feral] a band or / SfyVd / fibers.
cap usually of metal enclosing the Gmc > F > E The fibrous content of fruits and
end of a cane, tool handle, table a relationship of aggressive vegetables is beneficial to the
leg, or similar object to strengthen hostility : quarrel. digestive system.
it or prevent splitting and wearing. A feud over the property
Both the knob and the ferrule of boundaries developed between the fichu
Mr. Benson’s walking stick were two families.
made of finely engraved silver. fictile
fiction
fictitious
fideism
Page 118 of 349

fidelity filasse finger
n n
/ fDSdelEZG / / fDSlas / finialed
L L>F adj
the quality or state of being faithful a vegetable fiber prepared for / SfinGEld /
or loyal (as to a person, cause, manufacture. L>F>E
party, or nation). At the mill, sisal plants are provided with a capping ornament.
When taking the oath of office, the processed into filasse. The lampposts and street signs
president pledged fidelity to the were elaborately finialed with iron
Constitution. filial pineapples.
adj
fiduciary / SfilGEl / finite
adj L adj
/ fDSd(y)VshGTerG / befitting a child in relation to his or / SfITnIt /
L her parents. L>E
of, having to do with, or involving During adolescence, many children having clear limits.
a confidence or trust. feel uncomfortable demonstrating Phoebe’s creativity was bound by a
Zoe acted in a fiduciary capacity filial love in public. finite set of resources.
during the lease negotiations.
filibuster firkin
fiefdom n n
n / SfilEbEstE(r) / / SfErkDn /
/ SfGfdEm / F > Sp D>E
F+E the use of extreme delaying tactics a British unit of weight for butter
an area over which one exercises (as speaking merely to consume equal to 56 pounds.
control. time) in an attempt to prevent Lord Nelson wrote, “I beg that you
The manager’s fiefdom consisted of action by the majority in a will send us the following articles:
two departments and the company deliberative assembly. 50 pounds loaf sugar, 1 firkin of
newsletter. The Senate effectively killed the bill good butter, and 2 pounds of black
with a filibuster. pepper.”
fiendish firmament
filoselle n
fierce / SfErmEmEnt /
finance L>E
fiery the vault or arch of the sky :
adj financier heavens.
/ SfI(E)rG / n Carmen looked to the firmament
E / TfinEnSsi(E)r / for a sign, but none was
of the color of fire : red. F forthcoming.
Kevin knew that a photograph a large-scale investor.
would not portray the fiery sunset Marv’s uncle, a Boston financier, firnification
in its full splendor. works one day a week in a soup n
kitchen. / TfirnEfDSkCshEn /
filament G+L>E
n finesse the process whereby snow becomes
/ SfilEmEnt / partially compacted and forms the
L>F finessing surface part of the upper end of a
a fine conductor that is rendered v glacier.
incandescent by the passage of an / fDSnesiN / Solid ice is the end product of
electric current. L>F firnification.
Beulah could see that the filament bringing about or managing by
was broken, so she replaced the adroit manipulation. fiscal
bulb. Vigor and resolution, not adj
maneuvering and finessing, were / SfiskEl /
needed to get the St. Bernard into F > Sp
the car. of or relating to financial matters.
Several of the president’s advisors
fingent on fiscal policy are participating in
the symposium.
Page 119 of 349

fissile flagellum flamenco
adj n n
/ SfisEl / / flESjelEm / / flESmeN(T)kP /
L L D > Sp
capable of being split, cleft, or a long tapering projection that is [has near homonym: flamingo] a
divided in the direction of the grain the primary organ of motion of vigorous rhythmic dance of the
or along natural planes of cleavage. many algae and bacteria. Andalusian Gypsies.
The fissile quality of cedar makes it The bacterium whipped its The dancer entertained the patrons
an excellent material for flagellum furiously. at the Spanish restaurant with a
boxmaking. rousing flamenco.
flageolet
fission flamingo
flagitious n
fissiparous / flESmiN(T)gP /
adj flagitiously L > OProv > Sp > Pg
/ fiSsipErEs / adv [has near homonym: flamenco]
L+L / flESjishEslG / any of several aquatic birds that
tending to break up into parts or to L>E have remarkably long legs and
disintegrate : divisive, factional. in a grossly wicked manner. neck, webbed feet, and usually
Strong leadership is needed to keep The criminal was sentenced to ten rosy-white plumage.
the fissiparous tendencies of the years’ imprisonment for his Tom and his buddies placed a giant
political party in check. flagitiously cruel assault. plastic pink flamingo on the roof of
the school.
fissure flagon
n n flammable
/ SfishE(r) / / SflagEn / adj
L Gmc? > L > F > E / SflamEbEl /
[has homonym: fisher] a narrow [has near homonym: flacon] a L
opening, chasm, or crack of some large usually metal or pottery capable of being easily ignited and
length and considerable depth vessel with handle and spout and of burning with extreme rapidity.
usually occurring from some often a lid used to hold liquid. Both gasoline and kerosene are
breaking, rending, or parting. The knights passed around a flagon flammable, but gasoline is more
A fissure ran through Irene’s of ale before riding off to battle. explosive.
backyard after the earthquake.
flail flammeous
fisticuffs adj
n pl flambeau / SflamGEs /
/ SfistDTkEfs / n L
E+E / SflamTbP / consisting of or resembling the
a fight with the fists : boxing. F color of flame.
The two campers’ friendly rivalry a flaming torch usually made by Flammeous maple leaves carpeted
ended in a round of mock fisticuffs. combining thick wicks saturated the lawn of the inn.
with a quick-burning substance (as
fixture pitch). flammiferous
n A procession of skiers zigzagged adj
/ SfikschE(r) / down the slope, each of them / flaSmif(E)rEs /
L bearing a flambeau. L + Ecf
something that is attached as a producing flame or bright with
permanent appendage or structural flamboyantly flame.
part; specifically : an electric adv The flammiferous volcano was an
lighting device usually ornamental / flamSbOi(y)EntlG / awesome spectacle to behold.
and permanently mounted in place. F
Mel attached a light fixture to the in a showy and unrestrained flaneur
side of his house for protection manner.
against burglars. At the pep rally the students
flamboyantly demonstrated their
support for the football team.
Page 120 of 349

flange fleet flokati
n n n
/ Sflanj / / SflGt / / flPSkBtG /
F? > E E Gk
a rim or edge projecting at right a number of warships under a a hand-woven Greek wool rug with
angles to provide a means of single command : a naval force. a thick shaggy pile.
attachment to another part. Naval Intelligence learned that Katina loves to hear the story of
The plumber pointed out a chipped terrorists were noting information how her grandparents came to the
flange that had caused the leak. about the movement of the fleet. United States with all their
possessions wrapped in one flokati.
flannel flexibility
adj floppety
/ SflanFl / flexuosity adj
W>E / SflBpEZG /
a napped cotton fabric of soft flexure E imit
yarns. n soft and flexible.
The sleeves of his plaid flannel / SflekshE(r) / Moira purchased her floppety
shirt were rolled back to the elbow. L straw hat during a visit to Key
the slight bending of an West.
flannelette astronomical observing instrument
caused by the weight of its parts. florid
flaunting Emily reinforced her telescope with adj
v strips of titanium to minimize / SflOrDd /
/ SflOntiN / flexure. L
Scand? [has near homonym: fluoride]
seeking to attract attention flibbertigibbet flushed or tinged with red : ruddy.
especially by appearing or acting n Marsha’s face was florid when she
brash and brazen. / SflibE(r)ZGTjibDt / finished her five-mile run.
During the party Terry seemed to E
be flaunting his ability to play a light-minded or silly restless floriferous
piano. person. adj
Mrs. French proved far less of a / flPSrif(E)rEs /
flautino flibbertigibbet than the world took L + Ecf
n her to be. bearing flowers; especially :
/ flaUStG(T)nP / blooming freely.
It flimflammer Begonias are floriferous even in the
a small flute : piccolo. shade.
Harriet plays many wind flippant
instruments, but she especially adj florilegium
enjoys playing flautino in a / SflipEnt / n
baroque music group. imit? + Ecf / TflPrESlGjGEm /
treating or tending to treat with L
flaxen unsuitable levity that which is a volume or collection of brief
serious or to which respect is due. extracts or writings : anthology.
fleabane The principal chastised Clyde and Frank pulled a tattered florilegium
n his friends for their flippant from the shelf.
/ SflGTbCn / behavior during the memorial
E+E service. florisugent
any of various plants of the family adj
Compositae that are supposed to flocculent / TflPrESsVjEnt /
drive away fleas. L+L
A young rabbit was hidden under a sucking nectar from flowers.
clump of fleabane. The honeysuckle attracted the
florisugent hummingbird.
fleeciness
floruit
Page 121 of 349

floscular fluoridation fogginess
adj n n
/ SflBskyElE(r) / / TflUrESdCshEn / / SfOgGnDs /
L L + Ecff Scand? + Ecff
composed of florets. the adding of a binary compound of the quality or state of being covered
A daisy bears floscular flower fluorine to drinking water. or enveloped with vapor condensed
heads. Fluoridation has been proven to to fine particles of water suspended
deter tooth decay. in the lower atmosphere.
flotilla Severe fogginess was blamed for
n fluorocarbon the ten-car pileup on the
/ flPStilE / n expressway.
ON > F > Sp / SflU(E)rPTkBrbEn /
a small fleet or a fleet of small L+L foible
watercraft. any of a class of chemically inert n
The Boy Scouts launched a flotilla compounds (as tetrafluoroethylene) / SfOibEl /
of toy sailboats across the lake. composed entirely of carbon and F
fluorine and used chiefly as a minor flaw or shortcoming in
flotsam lubricants and in making resins and personal character or behavior :
n plastics. failing, weakness.
/ SflBtsEm / Fluorocarbon is used to make the Kevin’s tendency to procrastinate
F > AF nonstick coatings for pots and is a foible he claims he will one day
wreckage of a ship or its cargo pans. correct.
found floating on the sea.
Flotsam is part of wreckage, fluvial foist
whereas jetsam has been adj v
deliberately cast overboard. / SflVvGEl / / SfOist /
L D
flourish of or relating to rivers. force another to accept especially
A lawyer specializing in fluvial law by stealth or deceit.
fluctuant told Emmett that he could claim Brent knew that Karen would foist
adj possession of the newly formed another kitten upon him if he
/ SflEkchEwEnt / island in the Rum River. wasn’t careful.
L
moving like a wave : varying and fluxion foliaceous
unstable. n
The fluctuant beam from Amy’s / SflEkshEn / foliage
flashlight resulted from weak L n
batteries. the action of flowing. / SfPl(G)ij /
The fluxion of many liquids slows F&L
flue in cold weather. the mass of leaves of a plant as
produced in nature : leafage.
flummery fodder Tourists who come to see fall
n n foliage at its peak are sometimes
/ SflEm(E)rG / / SfBdE(r) / referred to as “leaf peepers.”
W E foliiform
porridge made of flour or meal. something (as hay, vegetables, adj
Hulbert made flummery for dessert. corn) fed to domestic animals. / SfPlGETfOrm /
Field corn makes good fodder. F
fluorescent having the shape of a leaf.
adj In October, Rhoda and Lamar
/ flU(E)SresFnt / decorated the classroom windows
L > F + L > Ecf with foliiform cutouts.
[has homonym: florescent]
emitting electromagnetic radiation
especially in the form of visible
light.
The fluorescent bulb above Gary’s
cubicle thrummed noisily.
Page 122 of 349

folliculitis forecaster forlorn
n n adj
/ fETlikyESlIZDs / / SfPrTkastE(r) / / fE(r)SlO(E)rn /
L E E
inflammation of one or more small one who predicts weather sad and lonely especially by reason
cavities in the skin. conditions on the basis of of emptiness or abandonment.
An ingrown hair on Bo’s cheek correlated meteorological The forlorn widow was most
resulted in folliculitis. observations. appreciative of the party her
When the forecaster predicted neighbors held to honor her
folliculose freezing rain, the highway birthday.
department loaded up its trucks
fomentation with sand and salt. formaldehyde
n
fontinal foreclosable / fOrmSaldEThId /
adj L + Ar > Sp > L + L + Gk
/ SfBntFnEl / foreignness an aqueous solution that is used
L chiefly as a disinfectant and
growing in or near springs. forensic preservative.
Cottonwoods are well-known The medical laboratory contained
fontinal trees throughout the forensics specimens preserved in
American Southwest. n pl formaldehyde.
/ fESren(t)siks /
forage L formicary
v the art or study of argumentative n
/ SfOrij / discourse. / SfOrmETkerG /
Gmc > F > E Tara’s performance in her class in L
wander or rove in search of food. forensics practically guaranteed an ant hill or ant nest.
The survivors of the airplane crash her a spot on the debate club team. Junior made the mistake of sitting
on the remote mountainside on a formicary of red ants.
decided to forage in groups of foreordain
three. formicivorous
forestallment adj
foraminate / TfOrmESsiv(E)rEs /
adj forfeit L + Ecf + L + Ecf
/ fESramETnCt / v feeding on ants.
L / SfOrfDt / Formicivorous woodpeckers spend
perforated. L>F>E much of their time on the ground
Sid examined the foraminate leaf lose or lose the right to by some looking for ants.
under a microscope. error, fault, offense, or crime.
Individuals who are convicted of a formidable
foray felony forfeit their right to vote. adj
n / SfO(r)mDdEbEl /
/ SfOTrC / forfeiture L>E
F>E tending to inspire awe or wonder
a raid or brief invasion. forgeable usually by reason of notable size,
Captain McMaster led his troops quantity, superiority, or excellence.
on a foray into the village. forgery Though the competition was
n formidable, Bernie was confident
forbearance / SfPrj(E)rG / he would emerge victorious.
L>F>E
forceps an act of falsely or fraudulently forsooth
making or altering a document. adv
Lorna is charged with two counts / fE(r)SsVth /
of check forgery. E
in truth : certainly.
forgotten Forsooth, the queen was the most
beautiful woman in the world.
Page 123 of 349

forsythia fossilize franchisee
n v n
/ fE(r)SsithGE / / SfBsETlIz / / TfranchISzG /
Brit name L > ISV L > F + Ecf
any plant of a small genus of turn (as remains of organisms from one who is granted a right to
ornamental shrubs that have bright past geologic eras) into a operate a unit in a chain of business
yellow flowers which appear before mineralized form in Earth’s crust. establishments.
the leaves in early spring. Since not all plant materials The franchisee agreed to pay the
The gardener planted forsythia fossilize equally well, some plants franchisor an initial fee and a
along the entire outer edge of the will be preserved and others will percentage of gross sales.
yard. vanish in the course of time.
frangible
fortemente fossorial adj
adj / SfranjEbEl /
fortieth / fBSsPrGEl / L
L capable of being broken :
fortissimo adapted to digging. breakable, brittle, fragile.
adj Gophers are fossorial rodents Road signs are designed to be
/ fO(r)StisETmo / having strong claws on their frangible so that they won’t
L > It forelimbs. severely damage cars that hit them.
very loud—used as a direction in
music. foudroyant frankincense
When playing the fortissimo n
passage of her lesson, Suzanne fougasse / SfraNkDnTsen(t)s /
banged so loudly on the piano that E
the neighbor’s dog began to bark. foul a gum resin containing volatile oil.
adj Aunt Ruby likes to burn
fortitude / SfaUl / frankincense at Christmastime.
n E
/ SfO(r)ZETtVd / offensive to the senses : rotten. fraternal
L>E The spoiled contents of the
the strength or firmness of mind refrigerator created an extremely fraud
that enables a person to encounter foul odor. n
danger with coolness and courage. / SfrOd /
John Kennedy displayed foulard L>F>E
exceptional fortitude after his deceit, trickery; especially :
patrol boat was attacked during foundation misrepresentation intended to
World War II. induce another to part with
foundry something of value or to surrender
fortuitous n a legal right.
adj / SfaUndrG / Joel is suing his former manager
/ fO(r)StVEZEs / F for fraud and breach of contract.
L a building or establishment where
occurring by chance without metal or glass casting is carried on. fraudulent
evident causal need or relation or The students saw molten metal adj
without deliberate intention. being poured into engine block / SfrOjElEnt /
Their meeting was fortuitous, but molds at the foundry. L
Dan and Mattie believed that they characterized by or based on
had been destined to be together. fracas trickery or deceit especially when
involving misrepresentation.
fortunate fraction The manufacturer was charged
with fraudulent advertising.
fossil fragile
fragrant
frailty
franchise
Page 124 of 349

fraught Freudian frisson
adj adj n
/ SfrOt / / SfrOidGEn / / frGSsPM /
OFris? > G > D > E Austrian name + Ecf L>F
burdened or menaced with. of, relating to, or according with shudder, quiver, chill; especially : a
The work of the firefighter is the theories of Austrian neurologist pleasurable sensation of fright or
fraught with danger. Sigmund Freud and his system of gloom : thrill.
psychoanalysis. Amy suddenly awakened from a
freckles A Freudian slip of the tongue may nightmare and felt a frisson of
reveal the speaker’s deep-seated terror.
freight concerns and reasons for action.
fritillary
fremitus friable n
adj / SfriZFlTerG /
frenetically / SfrIEbEl / L
adv L>F any of numerous butterflies that
/ frDSneZDk(E)lG / easily crumbled, pulverized, or usually are orange with black spots
Gk > L > F > E reduced to powder. on the upper side of both wings and
in a frenzied, hectic manner. The sand sculpture was so friable have silvery spots on the underside
Four dancers moved frenetically that it crumbled in Carl’s hands of the hind wings.
around the stage. when he tried to pick it up. As Cora was tending her garden,
she observed a crab spider
frescade fricassee capturing a fritillary on a flower.
n n
/ fresSkCd / / SfrikETsG / frittata
Gmc > OProv > F F n
a cool walk : shady place. a stew of meat or other foods in / frGStBZE /
The landscape architect’s light or brown gravy. L > It
suggestion of a long frescade under Mrs. Delaney prefers to make her an unfolded omelet often
a grape arbor thrilled her client. fricassee with chicken. containing chopped vegetables or
meats.
fresco fried Tony’s frittata was filled with
n adj seasoned asparagus tips.
/ SfresTkP / / SfrId /
Gmc > It L>F>E frivolity
the art of painting on freshly spread cooked in hot fat. n
moist lime plaster with pigments Milton’s favorite meal is fried / frDSvBlEZG /
suspended in a water vehicle. catfish and cornbread. L>F
Fresco is a demanding technique the quality or state of being not
because the image cannot be friend serious : playfulness.
changed after the plaster dries. The Mardi Gras celebration was
friendliness marked by boisterousness and
fresnel frivolity.
n frieze
/ frCSnel / frivolous
F name frigorific adj
a unit of frequency equal to 1 adj / Sfriv(E)lEs /
trillion cycles per second. / TfrigESrifik / L>E
A rarely used multiple of the hertz L of little weight or importance.
is the fresnel, which was named for causing cold. Mr. Peterson offered only frivolous
the French scientist Augustin Jean Michael was curious about how the remarks at the hearing.
Fresnel. frigorific device for wine bottles
could possibly work. frolic
frolicking
Page 125 of 349

frolicsome frugal fuguist
adj adj n
/ SfrBlikTsEm / / SfrVgEl / / SfyVgDst /
L + Ecf L L > It
full of gaiety and mirth : playful. economical in the use or one who composes or performs
Each year the Kentucky Derby expenditure of resources. fugues.
attracts horse lovers who enjoy the The “Golden Fleece Award” was As a fuguist, Johann Sebastian
frolicsome festivities associated started by Senator William Bach has never been excelled.
with the race. Proxmire, who advocated a more
frugal government. fulcrum
frondeur n
n fruition / SfUlkrEm /
/ frPMdQQr / n L
L? > F / frVSishEn / prop, support; specifically : the
rebel, malcontent, dissident. L>F>E support about which a lever turns.
The mayor’s denouncement the state of being real, Using the edge of his plate for a
referred to Jules as a “frondeur.” accomplished, or complete. fulcrum, Danny put peas on his
frontiersman The new civic center came to fork and catapulted them across the
n fruition after many years’ planning cafeteria.
/ TfrEnSti(E)rzmEn / and labor.
F>E fulgurant
a man living at the edge of known fruticetum adj
civilization. n / SfUlg(y)ErEnt /
Daniel Boone was a famous / TfrVZESsGZEm / L
Kentucky frontiersman of the 18th L flashing like lightning : dazzling.
century. a collection of shrubs grown for Emily’s fulgurant diamond brooch
ornament or study. attracted many eyes at the dinner
frontispiece At the botanical garden, the party.
n arboretum and fruticetum were
/ SfrEntDTspGs / combined under one roof. fuliginous
L>F adj
an illustration preceding and fruticose / fyVSlijEnEs /
usually facing the title page of a L
book or magazine. fuchsia having the color of soot : dark,
Morgan was hired to draw the dusky.
school yearbook’s frontispiece. fudge Smoke-belching factories cast a
fuliginous cloud over the entire
fronton fughetta city.
n n
/ SfrBnTtBn / / f(y)VSgeZE / fulminate
L > It > F It v
a court or building for the game of a short or condensed musical piece / SfUlmEnCt /
jai alai. in which one or two melodic L
The fronton looked bigger on themes are repeated by issue or send forth censures or
television than in actuality. successively entering voices. invectives menacingly or
The Vienna Boys’ Choir performed authoritatively.
froufrou a fughetta in their concert at St. The neighbor’s habit of mowing the
n Paul’s Cathedral. lawn early every Sunday morning
/ SfrVTfrV / caused Dad to fulminate under his
F imit fugitive breath.
abundant or excessive
ornamentation (as ruffles, beading, fugue fulsome
flowers) in women’s clothing. adj
The slippers covered with froufrou / SfUlsEm /
had to be “for looks” only. E
offensive to the senses : disgusting.
The fulsome odor of a skunk drove
the campers out of their tent.
Page 126 of 349

fulvous furfuraceous fusion
adj adj n
/ SfUlvEs / / TfErf(y)ESrCshEs / / SfyVzhEn /
L L L
dull brownish yellow. consisting of or covered with flaky a merging of diverse elements into
When Mr. Brown’s soybean field particles : scaly, scurfy. a unified whole.
turned fulvous, he knew it was time The dermatologist recommended a The spicy pasta dish Fran ordered
to harvest. dandruff-removing shampoo to was a fusion of Italian and Thai
treat Linda’s furfuraceous scalp. cuisine.
fumigate
furibund fustian
funambulist n
n furlough / SfEschEn /
/ fyVSnambyElDst / n L>F>E
L / SfEr(T)lP / pretentious writing or speech : an
an acrobat who performs feats on a D inflated style : bombast.
rope extended through the air at a leave of absence granted to a The literary journal refused to print
some height. governmental or institutional Herman’s overwrought fustian.
A hush came over the crowd as the employee (as a soldier, civil
funambulist balanced himself on servant, or missionary). futilitarian
one foot. While on furlough last year, the adj
Lees raised $10,000 for the dental / (T)fyVTtilESterGEn /
funeral clinic. L
n exhibiting or based on an attitude
/ SfyVn(E)rEl / furniture of uselessness.
L>E The futilitarian worker doesn’t try
the observances held in honor of or furtive to improve his status because he
on behalf of one who has died. adj can’t see any chance of success.
Bonnie wanted dancing at her / SfErZiv /
funeral, so she arranged for a band L gabbro
before she died. done by stealth : secret. n
Wendy’s furtive attempt to sneak a / Sga(T)brP /
fungicide cookie was interrupted by the L? > It
n appearance of her little brother. a rock of a family of granular
/ SfEnjETsId / igneous rocks.
L fuselage An outcropping of gabbro showed
an agent that destroys a group of n through the soil.
lower plants including molds, rusts, / SfyVsETlBzh /
mildews, mushrooms, and yeasts. F gabion
A fungicide was sprayed on the the central body portion of an n
apple trees to protect the fruit. airplane designed to accommodate / SgCbGEn /
the crew and the passengers or L > It > F
funicular cargo. a hollow cylinder of wickerwork or
adj Leslie pointed out the bulbous strap iron like a basket without a
/ fyVSnikyElE(r) / fuselage of a Boeing 747 on the bottom that is filled with stones and
L tarmac. is sunk in water to form the
dependent on the tension of a cord foundation of a dam or similar
or cable. fusillade structure.
Too nervous to take the funicular n With the availability of poured
tramway, Selena chose to drive to / SfyVsETlCd / cement, the gabion became
the top of the mountain. F outmoded.
a number of shots fired
simultaneously or in rapid gadabout
succession especially with small
arms : volley. gadgeteer
The first rank of infantrymen fired
a fusillade, sank to their knees, and
waited for the second rank to fire
over their heads.
Page 127 of 349

gaggle gallery gallop
n n
/ SgagEl / / Sgal(E)rG / galloping
E geog name > L > F adj
a flock of geese especially when on a platform projecting from one or / SgalEpiN /
the water. more interior walls (as of a theater) F
The largest goose in the gaggle was for additional accommodation (as marked by a bounding and fast
soon to play an important role in of a part of an audience); especially natural three-beat gait of a horse.
the holiday dinner. : the highest of such platforms in a A galloping horse splashed through
theater commonly having the the waves on Sunset Beach.
gainsay cheapest seats.
v For the opera’s opening gallyware
/ SgCnTsC / performance there wasn’t a vacant
E seat in the entire gallery. galore
speak against : contradict. adj
The ruling of the umpire allowed gallimaufry / gESlP(E)r /
no one to gainsay his decision. n IrGael
/ TgalESmOfrG / abundant, plentiful, profuse.
gait F Edie found bargains galore at the
medley, mixture, hodgepodge, flea market.
gaiter jumble.
Ever since her around-the-world galosh
galactic trip, Lindsey uses a gallimaufry of n
adj foreign phrases when she speaks. / gESlBsh /
/ gESlaktik / F>E
Gk > L galling a high overshoe designed to protect
extremely great : huge. the shoe in wet weather or in wet
Ralph was overwhelmed by the gallinule areas and usually made with a
store’s galactic profusion of n rubber or water-repellent fabric.
merchandise. / SgalETn(y)Vl / The galosh was the first type of
L footwear to employ a zipper
galaxy any of several aquatic birds that fastener.
resemble a small domestic hen in
Galbraithian general proportions and carriage. galvanize
adj Mitch found an injured gallinule in v
/ galSbrCthGEn / the rushes near Pearson’s dock. / SgalvETnIz /
American name It name > F
of or relating to the economic gallipot stimulate as if by the application of
theories of John Kenneth Galbraith. an electric current.
The speaker at the symposium gallon The enemy attack served to
claimed that Galbraithian theories n galvanize the government into
on limited growth were not sound. / SgalEn / immediate action.
F>E
galette a unit of liquid capacity equal to gambado
231 cubic inches. n
gallantry Long-term blood donors tally their / gamSbC(T)dP /
donations by the gallon. It
galleon a long boot or legging attached to
n galloon each side of a saddle to protect the
/ SgalGEn / n rider’s feet and legs from the wet or
F > Sp / gESlVn / cold.
[has homonyms and near F Preparing for a ride in the rain, the
homonym: gallein, Gallian and a narrow ornamental fabric used horseman attached a gambado to
Galium] a heavily built chiefly especially for trimming clothes or each stirrup strap.
square-rigged sailing ship of the upholstery.
15th to early 18th centuries. Instead of the more common lace, gambit
Traci built a model of a Spanish Ling chose a white galloon for the
galleon out of matchsticks for her trim on her wedding dress. gamble
history project.
Page 128 of 349

gambol gardenesque garrulity
v adj n
/ SgambEl / / TgBrdFnSesk / / gESrVlEZG /
GK > L > OProv > F Gmc > F > E + Ecf L
[has homonym: gamble] bound or resembling or relating to a plot of the quality or state of being
spring as in dancing or play. land devoted to the growing of talkative or long-winded.
Susan watched the fawns gambol in herbs, fruits, flowers, or vegetables. Paul talks so much that his teacher
the field. Rosita turned her balcony into a calls him a “geyser of garrulity.”
gardenesque area with vines and
gamopetalous potted plants. garrulous
adj adj
/ TgamESpeZFlEs / garderobe / SgarElEs /
Gk n L
having the corolla composed of / SgBrTdrPb / given to conversation : loquacious,
united petals. F>E talkative.
The flowers of the huckleberry, a wardrobe or its contents. The old colonel turned quite
bluebell, and foxglove are The seamstress hung the completed garrulous when talking of war.
gamopetalous. gown in the garderobe.
gasconade
gamut gargantuan v
n adj / TgaskESnCd /
/ SgamEt / / gBrSganch(Ew)En / F name
Gk > L F name boast or bluster especially to
an entire range from one extreme to of tremendous size or volume. excess.
another. The seemingly gargantuan gorilla Mr. Clay could gasconade at such
The gamut of fall fashions included in the movie was really a four-foot- length that his listeners became
micro-miniskirts as well as ankle- high computerized model. bored.
length dresses.
garish gaseous
ganglion adj
n garlion / SgasGEs /
/ SgaNglGEn / n L
Gk > L / SgBrlyEn / having the form of or being a fluid
a mass of nerve tissue containing E+L>F>E (as air) that has neither independent
nerve cells. a hybrid vegetable resulting from a shape nor volume but tends to
Each insect ganglion controls cross between garlic and onion. expand indefinitely.
certain activities and is more or Shannon uses garlion in her The energy required to completely
less independent of the others. spaghetti sauce. separate one mole of a solid ionic
compound into gaseous ions is
gangrene garnishee called “lattice energy.”
n v
/ SgaNTgrGn / / TgBrnDSshG / gasification
Gk > L Gmc > F > E + Ecf
local death of soft tissues (as from take by legal writ the wages or gastric
disease, injury, or infection) other property of a debtor.
resulting from loss of blood supply. Norton was afraid the court would gastriloquist
The soldier knew that if gangrene garnishee his entire salary to pay n
set in, his wounded leg would need his back taxes. / gaSstrilEkwDst /
to be amputated. Gk + L
garrison ventriloquist.
garage Lanny hired a gastriloquist to
entertain at Betsy’s birthday party.
gastronomical
Page 129 of 349

gastronomy gazelle n
n n / SzhBnTdBrm /
/ gaSstrBnEmG / / gESzel / F
Gk > F Ar > F a continental European police
the art or science of good eating : any of numerous small graceful and officer; especially : a French police
epicurism. swift African and Asian antelopes officer.
Chef Bernie specializes in French noted for the luster and soft The gendarme asked the victim for
gastronomy. expression of their eyes. a description of the mugger.
The fawn and white coloration of
gauche the gazelle serves to minimize genealogy
adj detection by predators. n
/ SgPsh / / TjGnGSBlEjG /
Gmc > F gazetteer Gk
lacking in social graces or ease, n a study of family ancestral lines
tact, and familiarity with polite / TgazESti(E)r / and the methods of investigation of
usage. Venetian dialect > It > F them.
Gertrude was embarrassed by her a geographical dictionary in which Many Americans interested in
cousin’s gauche behavior at the names and descriptions of places genealogy eventually come to the
christening. are usually given in alphabetical National Archives in Washington,
order. D.C., to do research.
gaucherie Chandra consulted her gazetteer to
n find the capital of Sri Lanka. general
/ SgPshETrG / adj
Gmc > F gazpacho / Sjen(E)rEl /
a tactless or awkward action; often n L
: a bit of social or literary crudity. / gASspA(T)chP / applicable or relevant to the whole
Daphne’s mom told her that using Sp rather than to a limited part, group,
one’s dinner napkin as a a soup made of uncooked chopped or section.
handkerchief is an unforgivable tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, The spring thaw began in one or
gaucherie. onion, garlic with vinegar, oil, and two areas, but soon there was a
condiments, and served cold. general change in temperature
gaufrette The restaurant was famous for its throughout the country.
n gazpacho.
/ gOSfret / generalissimo
F gegenschein
a wafer of crisply fried potato cut n generosity
to resemble a small waffle. / SgCgEnTshIn /
At the summer festival the French G genesis
restaurant featured gaufrette. a faint elliptical nebulous light
about 20 degrees across on the genethliacal
gauleiter ecliptic and opposite the Sun.
n The gegenschein is lost in the light genial
/ SgaUTlIZE(r) / of the Milky Way in the summer adj
G and winter. / SjGnyEl /
a political functionary occupying a L
subordinate but important position gelatigenous marked by sympathetic
in a totalitarian regime. cheerfulness, warmth, and
The memoirs of the gauleiter gelatinous friendliness.
contained little of historical adj Kim’s goal was to make the club
importance. / jESlatFnEs / members more genial and less
L > It > F + Ecf cliquish.
gauze resembling gelatin or jelly
especially in appearance and geniohyoid
consistency.
Troy stepped on a gelatinous mass genitive
of frog eggs.
gendarme
Page 130 of 349

geniture genuflect geosyncline
n v n
/ SjenETchU(E)r / / SjenyETflekt / / TjG(T)PSsinTklIn /
L L Gk
nativity, birth. touch the knee to the floor or a great downward flexure of Earth's
The geniture of the prince was an ground especially in worship. crust.
event of national importance. Amy asked the tour guide if A deep layer of sediment has
everyone had to genuflect upon accumulated in the geosyncline.
genocide entering the cathedral.
n geranium
/ SjenETsId / geochrony n
Gk + L n / jESrCnGEm /
the use of deliberate systematic / jGSBkrEnG / Gk > L
measures calculated to bring about Gk any of a widely distributed genus of
the extermination of a racial, a system of time divisions used in plants having regular usually white,
political, or cultural group. geology. pink, or purple flowers.
What stands between civilization In geochrony, time is divided into For decoration, Anita placed a
and genocide is the respect for the eras, periods, and epochs. potted geranium at the side of the
rights and lives of all human front door.
beings. geodesy
n geriatrics
genre / jGSBdEsG / n pl
n Gk / TjerGSatriks /
/ SzhB(M)nrE / a branch of applied mathematics Gk + E
L>F used to determine the exact a branch of medicine that deals
a category of artistic composition positions and areas of large with the problems and diseases of
characterized by a particular style, portions of Earth’s surface and old age and aging people.
form, or content. also the gravitational field of Earth. Marie’s expertise in geriatrics
Most of the director’s work has An expert in geodesy, Dr. Buck made her well qualified to work in
been in the genre of science fiction. determined the variation in gravity the city’s Department of Aging.
between the highest and lowest
genteel points of Earth’s exposed surface. germane
adj adj
/ jenStGl / geognosy / jE(r)SmCn /
L>F n L>F>E
free from vulgarity or rudeness : / jGSBgnEsG / having a close relationship :
marked by delicacy of manner. Gk + Gk appropriate, pertinent.
Despite his genteel manner, a branch of geology that deals with Judge Beacon ruled that the
Senator Smith could be a ruthless the materials of Earth and its plaintiff’s past record was not
opponent. general exterior and interior germane to the current case.
constitution.
gentian Hilda’s research in geognosy germicide
involved classifying several kinds n
gentilitial of minerals and recording their / SjErmETsId /
adj distribution throughout the world. L>F
/ TjentESlishEl / an agent that destroys germs (as
L + Ecf geography disease germs).
relating or peculiar to a people or a n Mouthwash is a common
family. / jGSBgrEfG / germicide.
In 1917 the gentilitial name of Gk
Britain’s royal family was changed the descriptive science that deals
to Windsor. with the surface of Earth and its
features.
gentility Chelsea was surprised by how
much she learned about geography
in her history class.
geometric
Page 131 of 349

germinal gesture gibberish
adj n
/ SjErmEnFl / / Sjes(h)chE(r) / gibbous
L>F L adj
being in the earliest stage of a movement usually of the body or / SjibEs /
development. limbs that symbolizes or L>F>E
Jonathan’s social studies class is emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or seen with more than half but not all
studying the germinal political attitude. of the apparent disk of a moon or a
ideas underlying our democratic When Alex made the winning planet illuminated.
government. touchdown, Coach Miller swung Vladimir and Sonya took a long
his hands up in the air as a gesture romantic walk under the gibbous
gerontocracy of victory. Moon.
gerrymander gesundheit gibleh

v interj n
/ SjerGTmandE(r) / / gESzUntThIt / / SgiblE /
American name + Gk > L G Ar
divide (an area) into political units —used to wish good health a hot desert wind of northern
so as to give special advantages to especially to one who has just Africa.
one group. sneezed. The gibleh brought huge clouds of
The governor vetoed the bill that “Gesundheit” echoed throughout powdery sand that covered the
would gerrymander a county in the school when Mr. Brown roads.
favor of his opponent. sneezed during an intercom
announcement. gigantesque
gerund
n ghastliness gigantic
/ SjerEnd / adj
L ghastly / jISgantik /
the English verbal noun ending in - adj Gk
ing. / SgastlG / greater in size than the usual or
In the sentence “Swimming is E expected.
Claudia’s favorite activity,” the giving rise to terror : frightening. The American flag flying over the
word swimming is a gerund. The gnarled trees appeared ghastly service station is so gigantic that it
in the moonlight. can be seen from a mile away.
gestapo
n ghetto gigot
/ gDSstB(T)pP / n
G acronym ghoul / SjigEt /
a secret-police organization that F
operates especially against persons ghoulish [has homonym: jigget] a leg (as of
suspected of treason or sedition and adj lamb or mutton) especially when
employs means held to be / SgVlish / cooked.
underhanded and terrorist. Ar Marie praised the chef for cooking
In the novel, morality became of, resembling, or suggestive of an the gigot with exactly the right
nothing more than subservience to evil being held to rob graves and touch of garlic.
the dictates of the ruthless gestapo. feed on corpses.
Tricia favors rather ghoulish nail gimmick
gesticulate colors like green and black.
v
/ jeSstikyETlCt / giallolino
L
make gestures or motions of the giantesque
body or limbs especially when adj
speaking. / TjIEntSesk /
The way public figures gesticulate Gk > L > F > E + Fcf
while talking is often fodder for having the characteristics of a giant
comedians. : immense.
A giantesque Snoopy balloon was
the highlight of the parade.
Page 132 of 349

gimmicky giraffe glacier
adj n n
/ SgimDkG / / jESraf / / SglCshE(r) /
unknown + Ecf Ar > It L>F
having or being like a new and a large fleet African ruminant [has near homonym: glazier] a
ingenious device, scheme, or idea mammal that is the tallest of living large body of ice moving slowly
with a novel or unconventional quadrupeds and has a very long down a slope or valley or spreading
twist. neck and a short coat with dark outward on a land surface.
The advertisement displayed blotches separated by pale lines. The iceberg that sank Titanic had
gimmicky gizmos, such as a Each giraffe has a unique pattern probably broken off from a glacier
wristwatch that played Notre of coat markings that distinguishes on Greenland.
Dame’s fight song. it from all other giraffes.
glaciology
gingerbread girandole
n n glacon
/ SjinjE(r)Tbred / / SjirEnTdPl / n
F>E L > It > F / glaSsPM /
a cake made with molasses, a mirror having attached candle F
flavored with ginger, and often cut holders. a piece of sea ice ranging in size
in shapes and frosted. The girandole over Pete’s mantel is from a small fragment to a floe of
Pam entertained the children by a replica of one in a Loire Valley medium dimensions.
helping them bake and decorate chateau. At least one seagull was perched on
gingerbread. every glacon in the bay.
girth
gingham gladiator
n gizzard n
/ SgiNEm / n / SgladGTCZE(r) /
Malay / SgizE(r)d / Celt > L
a fabric in plain weave made in Iranian? > L > F > E a person engaged in a fight to the
solid colors, checks, plaids, and the muscular enlargement of the death as public entertainment for
stripes. alimentary canal of birds that ancient Romans.
Betsy made curtains of blue serves to grind the food, its The victorious gladiator was
gingham for her kitchen. muscular action being commonly cheered by the excited crowd in the
assisted by gravel swallowed by the Coliseum.
gingivitis bird.
n Aunt Lena’s favorite part of the glasnost
/ TjinjESvIZDs / chicken is the gizzard. n
L / SglBsTnPst /
inflammation of the gums. glabrescent Russ
To prevent gingivitis Beth has her a policy permitting public discourse
teeth cleaned regularly. glabrous and expression of opinion on
adj domestic issues formerly forbidden
ginglymus / SglCbrEs / to discussion especially in the
n L former Soviet Union.
/ SjiNglDmEs / having an epidermal covering that Glasnost spawned a profusion of
Gk is totally or relatively devoid of new political and literary journals
a hinge joint admitting of motion in hairs or down. in Moscow.
one plane only. Mr. Franklin showed the first
In health class Jerry learned that graders that reptiles, unlike glasphalt
the humerus and the ulna are mammals, are completely glabrous.
connected by a ginglymus.
glacial
adj
/ SglCshEl /
L
extremely cold, frigid, freezing.
A glacial wind withered the roses
overnight.
Page 133 of 349

glaucoma glioma glockenspiel
n n n
/ glOSkPmE / / glISPmE / / SglBkEnTs(h)pGl /
Gk > L Gk Celt > G
a disease of the eye marked by a tumor arising from the tissue a percussion musical instrument
increased pressure within the which supports the essential consisting of a series of graduated
eyeball that damages the optic disk elements of nervous tissue. metal bars tuned to the chromatic
and results in gradual loss of vision An examination by our veterinarian scale and played with two
and ultimate blindness. revealed that the problems our dog hammers.
Ophthalmologists routinely test for was having were caused by a The glockenspiel tinkled to life as
glaucoma as part of their eye glioma. its player joined in a rendition of
examinations. Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”
glissade
glaucous v glogg
adj / glDSsBd / n
/ SglOkEs / F / SglUg /
Gk move along smoothly and Sw
[has homonym: Glaucus] of a pale effortlessly : glide. a Swedish hot punch made from a
yellow green color. Kris watched the skaters glissade sweetened highly spiced mixture of
The antique glass beads had a over the frozen pond. wines, almonds, raisins, and
glaucous color that matched usually orange peel.
Pamela’s dress exactly. glissando Each evening a bowl of hot glogg
n awaited the returning skiers.
glazier / glDSsBn(T)dP /
n F + It glomerulus
/ SglCzhE(r) / a rapid series of consecutive notes
E played on a piano, harp, or other glossary
[has near homonyms: glacier, similar instrument by sliding one or
glazer] one whose work is cutting more fingers across adjacent keys glottogonic
and setting glass. or strings. adj
Mom called a glazier who agreed Joachim diligently practiced the / TglBZPSgBnik /
to repair our broken window on glissando at the end of the first Gk
Thursday. movement. of or relating to the origin of
language.
glimmer glistening Three Russian linguists lectured on
v v their glottogonic research.
/ SglimE(r) / / SglisFniN /
E E glowworm
emit feeble or intermittent rays of shining brightly usually by n
light. reflection with a sparkling / SglPTwErm /
From Table Top Mountain, the radiance. E+E
couple watched the city lights Clarabelle watched the raindrops any of various luminous insects
glimmer in the cool clear evening glistening in the moonlight. with wings rudimentary or lacking.
air. Kyle scooped up the glowworm and
globular put it in his collection jar.
glimpse adj
n / SglBbyElE(r) / gloxinia
/ Sglim(p)s / L n
E round like a ball : spherical. / glBkSsinGE /
a brief fleeting look : a momentary A globular lamp hung from the G name
or incomplete view. center of the ceiling in Gretchen’s a greenhouse herb having large
From the taxi the passengers dining room. flowers with a turbinate calyx and
caught a glimpse of the Jefferson irregular bell-shaped corolla;
Memorial. globule especially : a Brazilian herb that is
the source of many horticultural
varieties.
Charlena’s gloxinia bears bright
pink, trumpetlike flowers in early
summer.
Page 134 of 349

glucose gnotobiotic golem
n adj n
/ SglVTkPs / / TnPZE(T)bISBZik / / SgPlEm /
Gk > F Gk Heb > Yiddish
the sweet colorless sugar that of, relating to, living in, or being a an artificial figure constructed to
occurs especially in plant saps and controlled environment containing represent a human being and
fruits and normally in blood. one or a few kinds of organisms. endowed with life.
Glucose is formed from water and A good example of a planned Some people believe that Mary
carbon dioxide by photosynthesis. gnotobiotic environment is the Shelley based her story of
international space station. Frankenstein on the ancient Jewish
gluttonously tradition of the golem.
adv goalie
/ SglEt(F)nEslG / n gondola
L>F>E / SgPlG /
in a manner marked by excess in E gondolier
eating and drinking especially a player who defends the goal in
when habitual. various games. gonfalon
After eating gluttonously, Jack took Jake rifled off shot after shot on n
a short nap on the couch. goal, but the goalie was too good. / SgBnfETlBn /
F > It
glycogen goatee [Note: Could be confused with
n synonym gonfanon.] a flag that
gnocchi / (T)gPStG / hangs from a crosspiece or frame.
n pl E As a distinguished alumnus, Walter
/ SnBkG / a small trim pointed or tufted beard was asked to carry the gonfalon of
Gmc? > It on a man’s chin. the College of Arts and Sciences at
dumplings of a pasta often made Sally wanted to know why she the graduation ceremony.
with cheese or riced potato and couldn’t have a goatee when she
served with a sauce. grew up. gongorism
Celeste ladled a cream sauce over n
the gnocchi before serving them. gobemouche / SgBNgETrizEm /
n Sp name
gnome / (T)gPbSmVsh / an excessively involved, ornate,
F+L>F and artificial style of writing.
gnomic a credulous person; especially : one In his later years, the poet lapsed
adj who believes everything heard. into gongorism.
/ SnPmik / Jack’s brothers are always making
Gk up fantastic stories to tell him goosander
[has homonym: nomic] because he is such a gobemouche.
characterized by or expressive of gorgeous
moralistic wisdom especially goldenrod adj
concerning human condition or n / SgOrjEs /
conduct. / SgPldEnTrBd / F>E
The calendar contained 12 Norman E+E characterized by brilliance or
Rockwell illustrations, each a yellow flower with long stalks magnificence of any kind.
accompanied by a gnomic with small clusters of petals. The parade floats were gorgeous
sentiment. Many people are allergic to the with their array of flowers.
goldenrod.
gnomon gorget
n
/ SgOrjDt /
F
a specially colored patch on the
throat.
The woodpecker sported a broad
black gorget and beautiful red and
white plumage.
Page 135 of 349

gorgonize gossamer gout
v n n
/ SgO(r)gETnIz / / SgBsEmE(r) / / SgaUt /
Gk name E L>F>E
stupefy, petrify. a fine filmy substance consisting of a metabolic disease marked by a
The glare of Mrs. McGillicutty has fragments or strands of cobweb painful inflammation of the fibrous
the potential to gorgonize even the often seen floating in air in calm and ligamentous parts of the joints.
most arrogant student. clear weather or caught on grass or Poor old John is bedridden with the
bushes. rheumatic gout in his joints.
Gorgonzola The dew and gossamer had dried
n from the grass by midmorning. governess
/ TgO(r)gEnSzPlE / n
It geog name gossip / SgEvE(r)nDs /
a blue cheese usually made of n Gk > L > F > E
cow’s milk. / SgBsDp / a woman entrusted with the care
Kendra crumbled some Gorgonzola E and supervision of a child or young
on a piece of bread and toasted it. rumor, report, tattle, or behind-the- person; especially : a female
scenes information especially of an teacher employed in a private
gorilla intimate or personal nature. household.
n “Turn a deaf ear to gossip,” Alice plans to enroll in a course
/ gESrilE / advised Mrs. Dunbar. that will enable her to be a certified
Gk > L governess.
[has homonym: guerrilla] an gouge
anthropoid ape of the forest region n gracile
of equatorial West Africa. / SgaUj /
The behavior of the gorilla has Celt > L > F > E gracility
been extensively studied by a chisel for scooping or cutting n
anthropologists and zoologists. holes, channels, or grooves (as in / graSsilEZG /
wood or stone). L
gorse Adrian used a gouge to incise a the quality of being pleasing in
n leaf pattern on the bench. movement.
/ SgO(E)rs / David’s youthful gracility was one
E gourami of his chief assets as a dancer.
a spiny evergreen shrub : juniper. n
Taryn went hiking in an area of / gVSrBmG / grackle
England that is just miles and miles Malay
of wild land covered with heather any of several small brightly gradient
and gorse. colored Asian fishes often kept in
the tropical aquarium. graffiti
gory Jonathan bought a colorful
gourami for his new aquarium. grallatorial
gosling adj
n gourd / TgralEStPrGEl /
/ SgBzliN / L
E gourmet of or belonging to the wading birds.
a young goose. n The horned screamer is a South
Judy rescued a stray gosling from / TgU(E)rSmC / American grallatorial bird with a
Mrs. Porter’s cat. F long projection on its forehead and
a connoisseur in eating and a shrill cry.
drinking.
At the market the gourmet chose his gramineous
ingredients with the greatest of adj
care. / grESminGEs /
L
[has near homonym: graminous]
resembling or relating to a grass.
The vast plain is an excellent
habitat for gramineous plants.
Page 136 of 349

grammar grandiloquence gratinate
n n v
/ SgramE(r) / / granSdilEkwEn(t)s / / SgratFnTCt /
Gk > L > F > E L F > Ecf
a branch of linguistic study that the use of lofty words or phrases : cook with a covering of buttered
deals with the classes of words, bombast. crumbs or grated cheese until a
their means of indicating relation to Professor Simon’s grandiloquence crust or crisp surface forms.
each other, and their functions in failed to impress Robbie. Mom decided to gratinate the
the sentence as employed according macaroni for lunch.
to established usage. grandiose
Mrs. Cates makes sure that her adj gratuitous
students can define the eight parts / SgrandGTPs /
of speech before she progresses to L > It > F graupel
other aspects of grammar. impressive because of uncommon n
largeness, scope, effect, grandeur, / SgraUpEl /
grammarian or majesty. Slav? > G
n Cleo didn’t want to listen to all of granular snow pellets.
/ grESmerGEn / Nicolette’s grandiose ideas for the Peter calls graupel “tapioca snow”
Gk > L > F > E party. because of its shape and color.
a specialist in the study of what is
to be preferred and what avoided in grangerize gravel
the inflections and syntax of v
language. / SgrCnjETrIz / graveolent
The grammarian in Johnny cringes E name + Ecf adj
every time he hears someone ask, illustrate (as a book) by inserting / grESvGElEnt /
“Where at?” material (as photographs or L
engravings) collected from other having a rank smell.
grammatically sources. Elaine quickly disposed of the
To complete her family memoirs, rotten, graveolent egg.
gramophile Miriam will have to grangerize the
n book using her great-aunt’s gravitate
/ SgramETfIl / scrapbooks and artwork. v
Gk / SgravETtCt /
a lover and protector of old granophyre L
phonograph records. move casually but inexorably as
Earl became a real gramophile granule though under an external force.
after inheriting his uncle’s record Ellen tends to grativate toward the
collection. graphospasm shoe store in any mall.
grandeur grapnel grazioso

n adv
/ SgranjE(r) / graticule / TgrBtsGSP(T)sP /
L>F n L > It
personal greatness characterized / SgraZDTkyVl / graceful, smooth, or elegant in
chiefly by dignity of character, L style—used as a direction in music.
largeness of spirit, or significant the network of lines of latitude and Several of Mozart’s piano sonatas
scope of accomplishment. longitude upon which a map is include pieces that are played
After Katherine Graham’s death, drawn. grazioso.
many magazines ran feature Jeff plotted a graticule before he
articles describing her grandeur in began to draw his map of the greffier
the world of newspapers. islands. n
/ SgrefGTC /
L>F
registrar, recorder.
The office of the greffier is lined
with ledgers.
Page 137 of 349

gregarious grimoire gristmill
adj n
/ grDSga(a)rGEs / / grDmSwBr / grizzled
L F
marked by an instinctive or a magician’s manual for invoking grobian
temperamental preference for a demons and the spirits of the dead. n
social rather than a solitary The witch looked in her grimoire to / SgrPbGEn /
existence. find a spell to change the child into G name
Because of their gregarious nature, a rat. a slovenly crude often buffoonish
dogs make good house pets. individual : boor, lout.
grimthorpe Vicki knew better than to expect
grenadier v Prince Charming on her blind date,
n / Sgrim(p)TthO(E)rp / but she never envisioned a grobian.
/ TgrenESdi(E)r / E name
F remodel (an ancient building) groceries
a soldier who carries and throws without proper knowledge or care
missiles consisting of a container to retain its original quality and grocery
fitted with a priming charge and a character.
bursting charge and filled with a Darryl is afraid the developers will groceteria
destructive agent (as gas, high grimthorpe the old mill. n
explosive, incendiary chemicals). / TgrPsEStirGE /
The grenadier started the assault, griot F > E + Ecf
followed immediately by the n a self-service food store.
riflemen. / SgrG(T)P / Patrice bought four lemons at the
F groceteria.
gressorial any of a class of musician-
adj entertainers of West Africa whose groggy
/ greSsPrGEl / performances include tribal
L histories and genealogies. grosgrain
adapted for walking. While doing research for his book n
Some birds, such as the turkey, Roots, Alex Haley was stunned to / SgrPTgrCn /
have gressorial feet. meet a griot who was able to tell F
the story of how Haley’s ancestors a firm fabric in plain weave.
grievance were captured by slavers and sent The ribbon in Alta’s hair was made
to America. of grosgrain.
grievous
adj grisaille grotesque
/ SgrGvEs / n
F>E / grDSzI / grovel
causing, characterized by, or F v
indicative of severe physical pain painting in monochrome usually in / SgrBvEl /
or suffering. shades of gray often as decoration ON > E
Jason screamed as if the scratch on to simulate sculptured relief. creep on the earth or with the face
his leg were a grievous wound. The old manuscript contained a to the ground as one’s natural gait
grisaille of a skeleton personifying or manner of locomotion.
grimace death. Jacques let his pig grovel through
n the forest to find truffles.
/ SgrimDs / grissini
Gmc > F gruel
a deliberate or involuntary gristliness n
distortion of the face expressive of n / SgrVEl /
some feeling (as contempt, / Sgris(E)lGnDs / Gmc > F > E
disapprobation, complacency). E a liquid food made by boiling a
The camera caught Allie’s grimace the quality or state of containing cereal (as cornmeal, oatmeal, flour)
during the pep rally. tough fiber or cartilage especially in water or milk.
in table meats. Isabella and her father had a nice
When Ruth noticed the gristliness basin of gruel together.
of the beef, she decided to cut it up
and cook it in a stew.
Page 138 of 349

grunion guernsey guilloche
n n n
/ SgrEnyEn / / SgErnzG / / gDSlPsh /
L > Sp E geog name F name?
a small silver-striped fish of the an animal of the breed of fawn and a pattern (as on metalwork) made
California coast notable for the white dairy cattle producing rich by interlacing curved lines.
regularity with which it comes yellowish milk. The dense guilloche on the iron
inshore to spawn at the time of a A lone guernsey grazed in the gate prevented people from
nearly full moon. middle of the herd of black and reaching through to turn the inside
Jose caught a grunion with his bare white holsteins in Mr. Henley’s knob.
hands when it came to spawn on pasture.
the beach. guillotine
guess n
gruyere v / SgilETtGn /
/ Sges / F name
guardian Scand? > E a machine for beheading by means
n form an opinion or judgment of of a heavy ax or blade that slides
/ SgBrdGEn / without knowledge. down in vertical guides.
F > AF > E Harvey decided to guess how much The guillotine was considered a
one to whom a person or thing is sugar to put in the pie. merciful means of capital
committed for protection, security, punishment when it was invented.
or preservation. guffaw
Alcibiades’ guardian was the v guipure
famous statesman Pericles. / (T)gESfO /
imit guitar
Guatemalan laugh noisily or coarsely. n
n The comic hoped that the audience / gDStBr /
/ TgwBZESmBlEn / members would guffaw at his jokes, Gk > Ar > Sp > F
Central American name but they merely snickered. [Note: Could be confused with
a native or inhabitant of Guatemala, catarrh.] a flat-bodied stringed
a country in Central America. guidon instrument with a long fretted neck
Maria was a Guatemalan by birth, n and usually six strings plucked with
but had become a naturalized / SgIdBn / a pick or with the fingers.
Brazilian. OProv > F Brett’s parents bought him an
a usually swallow-tailed flag borne acoustic guitar for his 15th
guava by a military unit usually as a unit birthday.
n marker.
/ SgwBvE / Leah was selected to carry the gullibility
Arawak > Sp guidon in the ROTC parade. n
the globular yellow fruit of a small / TgElESbilEZG /
shrubby tropical American tree. guignolet E + Ecff
A slice of guava topped off the quality or state of being easily
Rawonda’s fruit salad. guile deceived.
Gertrude’s gullibility made her the
gubernatorial guileful object of many practical jokes.
adj adj
/ TgVbE(r)nEStPrGEl / / SgIlfEl / gullible
L + Ecf Gmc > F > E
of or relating to a governor or characterized by cunning, deceit, or gulosity
government. treachery. n
The gubernatorial signature was His classmates thought Jack was / gyVSlBsEZG /
required for the law to become guileful in paying $12 for a $1200 L
effective. baseball card. excessive appetite : greediness.
It would be much easier for Roslyn
guerdon guillemot to lose weight if she could curb her
gulosity.
Page 139 of 349

gummiferous guttural gyrations
adj adj
/ TgESmif(E)rEs / / SgEZErEl / gyroscope
Egypt > Gk > L + L L>F
producing or bearing a colloidal being or belonging to a speech gyroscopic
substance that is gelatinous when sound that is articulated in the
moist but hardens on drying. throat. haberdasher
A sapodilla is a gummiferous tree. Guttural consonants posed a n
problem for Emily in German class. / ShabE(r)TdashE(r) /
gummosis AF > E
n gutturalize a dealer in men’s furnishings (as
/ TgESmPsDs / v shirts, ties, hats).
L / SgEZErElIz / Another upscale haberdasher has
the pathological production of L + Ecf opened a shop on Brighton Street.
sticky exudates in plants as a result pronounce or utter with sounds
of cell degeneration. articulated in the throat. habiliment
Plants afflicted with gummosis are Because of her German
often beset with ants. background, Ursula has a tendency habiliments
to gutturalize certain words. n pl
gumption / hESbilEmEn(t)s /
n gymkhana F
/ SgEm(p)shEn / n clothing suited to or characteristic
unknown / jimSkBnE / of a calling, occupation, or
blended initiative, resolution, and Per&Gk > Hindi profession : garb, costume.
effort. a horseback-riding meet featuring Burt dressed for the rodeo in the
Of all his brothers, only Grandpa games and novelty contests. habiliments of a cowboy.
had the gumption to leave the old Clem practiced daily with his horse
country and come to America. so that he could enter several habilitate
events in the upcoming gymkhana.
gurney habitat
n gymnasium n
/ SgErnG / / ShabETtat /
American name gynarchy L
a wheeled cot or stretcher. n the place where a plant or animal
The gurney squeaked ominously as / SjiTnBrkG / species naturally lives and grows.
Heywood was wheeled into the Gk The government appropriated
operating room. government by women. money to preserve the natural
Although it has had a few male habitat of the endangered species.
guru officers, Reta’s investment club has
n always been a gynarchy. habitual
/ SgVTrV / adj
Skt > Hindi gypsum / hESbich(E)wEl /
a personal religious teacher and n L
spiritual guide in Hinduism. / SjipsEm / established by or repeated by force
Shri asked his guru whether he Sem > Gk > L of a developed mode of behavior
should undertake a pilgrimage. plasterboard. that has become nearly or
Kiki nailed a sheet of gypsum to the completely involuntary.
gustatory garage wall. Brian had to explain his habitual
adj tardiness to the assistant principal.
/ SgEstETtOrG / gyrate
L + Ecf v hacienda
of, relating to, affecting, or / SjITrCt / n
associated with the sense of taste. Gk > L / T(h)BsGSendE /
Gaylord was hired as a food taster turn or swing back and forth often L > Sp
because of his highly refined rapidly with or as if with a circular the main building of a farm or
gustatory skills. or spiral motion. ranch.
Couples on the dance floor started A winding, tree-lined driveway led
to gyrate as a new song began. to the hacienda.
Page 140 of 349

hackamore haiku hallucinogen
n n n
/ ShakETmP(E)r / / ShITkV / / hESlVsFnFTjen /
Ar > Sp Jpn L + Gk
a bridle that consists of a halter an unrhymed verse form of a substance that induces
often of soft rope or braided Japanese origin having three lines perceptions of objects with no
horsehair and is used especially in containing usually five, seven, and reality; especially : one taken
breaking and training horses. five syllables, respectively. orally.
Charlene pulled back on the Compressing an image or idea into The medicine that the doctors
hackamore and cried “Whoa!” only 17 syllables is what makes a prescribed was an effective pain
hacked haiku most challenging to compose. killer, but in larger doses it
sometimes became a frightening
hackneyed halberdier hallucinogen.
adj
/ ShaknGd / halcyon halophyte
E geog name adj n
commonplace : trite. / ShalsGEn / / ShalETfIt /
The marketing adjective extreme Gk > L > E Gk + Gk
will soon be as hackneyed as super pleasingly or idyllically calm or a plant that grows naturally in soils
and ultra. peaceful : serene. having a high content of various
Aaron spent the halcyon afternoon salts.
haggard in his hammock. Australian aborigines grind into
adj flour the seeds of a halophyte that
/ ShagE(r)d / halibut grows in the coastal mud flats.
F n
having a worn or emaciated / ShalEbEt / hamadryad
appearance caused by suffering, E n
anxiety, or age. the largest of the flatfishes, being / ThamESdrITad /
Ever since she last saw him in the an inhabitant of all northern seas. Gk > L
courtroom, Frank’s haggard face At the aquarium, Ernie saw a a nymph of trees and woods;
and wild eyes had haunted her. halibut the size of a sleeping bag. especially : a nymph whose life
begins and ends with that of a
haggis halieutics particular tree.
n n pl Darcy sat on a bench in the
/ ShagDs / / ThalGS(y)VZiks / arboretum and imagined she was a
E Gk hamadryad.
a pudding especially popular in the art or practice of fishing.
Scotland made of the heart, liver, Izaak Walton's The Compleat hamartia
and lungs of a sheep or a calf Angler is the most famous book on n
minced with suet, onions, oatmeal, halieutics. / ThBTmBrStGE /
and seasonings and boiled in the Gk
stomach of the animal. halitosis a defect of character : error, guilt,
Haggis is often served on January n or sin especially of the tragic hero
25, the birthday of the Scottish poet / ThalEStPsDs / in a literary work.
Robert Burns. L Overweening ambition proved to be
a condition of having bad breath. Macbeth’s hamartia.
hagiocracy The new mouthwash is advertised
to cure halitosis. hamate
hagiography adj
hallucination / ShCTmCt /
n L
/ hETlVsFnSCshEn / hooked.
L Elliott examined the hamate hairs
perception of objects with no on the insect’s forelegs.
reality.
Maynard swears that the ghost he hammering
saw was no hallucination.
hammock
Page 141 of 349

hamulus harangue haricot
n n
handleable / hESraN / / SharETkP /
Gmc? > It > F > E F
handwrought a bombastic, ranting speech. the ripe seed or the unripe pod of
adj Amasa’s harangue at the any of several beans used as a
/ ShandTrOt / sophomore assembly offended vegetable.
E nearly everyone. The baby nibbled on a haricot and
fashioned by hand or chiefly by wrinkled her nose.
hand processes. harass
Barbie found a handwrought trivet Harlequin
at the garage sale. harassed adj
adj / ShBrlDk(w)Dn /
hansom / hESrast / E > F > It > F
n Gmc > F a stock character in comedy and
/ Shan(t)sEm / sorely troubled, vexed, or burdened pantomime who appears variously
E name : badgered. as a clown and a magician and
[has homonym: handsome] a light The harassed waitress decided she usually wears a mask and
two-wheeled covered carriage with had tolerated inconsiderate variegated tights and carries a
the driver’s seat elevated behind customers long enough and found a wooden sword.
and with the reins passed over the different line of work. The children especially enjoyed the
top. buffoonish antics of the Harlequin.
Holmes and Watson jumped into a harbinger
hansom and ordered the driver to n harmonica
follow discreetly the cab ahead. / ShBrbDnjEr /
Gmc > F > E harmoniously
haphazard something that presages or adv
adj foreshadows what is to come. / ThBrSmPnGEslG /
/ hapShazE(r)d / The howling wind was the Gk
ON > E + Ar > F > E harbinger of a storm. in a manner marked by accord in
aimless, random. sentiment or action : compatibly.
The apartment’s haphazard hardiness For a large family to live
furniture arrangement made it look n harmoniously, rules and chores are
untidy. / ShBrdGnDs / a must.
E
hapless the capability of endurance or harness
adj resistance. n
/ ShaplDs / The rose’s hardiness was severely / ShBrnDs /
ON > E + Ecf tested by a cold snap. ON > F > E
marked by the absence of good the gear or tackle other than a yoke
luck : unfortunate. hare of a draft animal such as a horse.
The hapless students were caught n The horse pulling the carriage
between the school district and the / Sha(a)(E)r / through Central Park had silver
striking teachers. E bells on its harness that jingled
[has homonym: hair] any of whenever the driver shook the
haplology various timid long-eared gnawing reins.
n mammals with a divided upper lip,
/ haSplBlEjG / long strong hind legs adapted to harpoon
Gk leaping, and a short tail.
contraction of a word by the Most schoolchildren have heard the
omission of one or more similar story of the tortoise and the hare.
sounds or syllables in
pronunciation.
The use of “probly” instead of
probably in hasty speech is an
example of haplology.
happiness
Page 142 of 349

harpsichord hassock hauteur
n n n
/ ShBrpsETkOrd / / ShasDk / / hOStEr /
L > It E F
a keyboard instrument resembling a bulky upholstered footstool. [has near homonyms: auteur and
the grand piano in shape and Phyllis decided to purchase the hotter] an assumption of superiority
producing tones by the plucking of wing chair with the matching : arrogant or condescending
wire strings with quills or leather hassock. manner.
points. The young couple was put off by
Kristin heard the jangling tones of hatchet the waiter’s hauteur.
the harpsichord through the
practice room door. hauberk haversack
n
harridan / ShO(T)bErk / havoc
n Gmc > F > E n
/ SharEdEn / a long tunic of ring or chain mail / ShavEk /
F? that with a close-fitting helmet and Gmc > F > AF > E
a haggard old woman. a shield constituted the main wide and general damage or
Ruth asked a woman in the town defensive armor of the 12th to 14th destruction.
square if she could take her centuries. The havoc created by the hurricane
picture, but the harridan just shook Most of the Norman soldiers wore made the area look like a war zone.
her fist at her and walked away. a hauberk, which was put on over
the head. hazardous
harrier adj
haughtily / ShazE(r)dEs /
harrumph adv Ar > F > E
v / ShOZFlG / exposed or exposing one to danger
/ hESrEm(p)f / L>F>E or peril.
imit in a disdainfully proud or The mountain road has many
make a pompous throat-clearing overbearing manner. hazardous curves.
sound. Gertrude haughtily replied that she
Monique wished that Mr. Nickels receives an allowance of 20 dollars headache
wouldn’t harrumph directly into the per week.
microphone. healthy
haulage adj
hartal n / ShelJG /
n / ShOlij / E
/ hBrStBl / Gmc > F > E free from disease : functioning
Hindi a charge made for transporting properly and normally in its vital
concerted cessation of work and something. functions.
business especially as a protest Paul's final bill for his new car A perfectly healthy tree in Tammy's
against a political situation. included haulage for transportation backyard was twisted and torn out
The Goa liberation committee from the factory to the dealer. of the ground by the tornado.
called a hartal on Friday in
memory of Indians killed by haunted hearsay
Portuguese fire on Monday. adj n
/ ShOntEd / / Shi(E)rTsC /
hartebeest Gmc > F > E E
n inhabited by or as if by apparitions something heard from another :
/ ShBrZETbGst / : frequented by ghosts. report, rumor.
D > Afrikaans The deserted Victorian house Jody’s elaborate account of the
a large African antelope with short outside town is said to be haunted. argument was based purely on
ringed divergent horns. hearsay.
The hartebeest grazes mainly on
the open plains and scrublands of
sub-Saharan Africa.
Page 143 of 349

hearth hebetate heifer
n v n
/ ShBrth / / ShebETtCt / / ShefE(r) /
E L E
a brick, stone, or cement area of blunt the sensitivity or keenness of a young cow.
floor in front of a fireplace. : make dull or obtuse. This year’s blue-ribbon heifer
Toby placed a plate of cookies and Some parents fear that video games belongs to Mrs. Cates.
a glass of milk on the hearth for hebetate young minds.
Santa. heinous
hebetude
heathen heinousness
n heckelphone n
/ ShGLEn / / ShCnEsnDs /
E hectare Gmc > F > E + Ecf
a person whose culture or n the quality or state of being
enlightenment is of an inferior / ShekTta(a)(E)r / hatefully or shockingly evil.
grade. Gk > F + L > F Even the police were appalled by
Embarrassed by her brother’s a metric unit of area equal to the heinousness of the crime.
behavior in front of her friends, 10,000 square meters.
Simone asked her mother to send The firefighters reported that more heiress
the little heathen outside. than a hectare of land was on fire. n
/ SerDs /
heather hedgehog L>F>E
n n [has near homonym: eros] a female
/ SheLE(r) / / ShejThOg / who inherits or is entitled to inherit
E E great wealth.
a common evergreen low-growing any of several Old World nocturnal Antoine dreamed that he married
shrubby plant that has racemes of spine-bearing mammals. an heiress and moved to an island.
tiny usually purplish pink flowers. Prudence spotted a hedgehog in the
The true heather of Scotland is also strawberry patch. heirloom
called “ling” or “common heath.”
heaume hedgingly heldentenor
n
/ ShPm / hedonism heleoplankton
F n n
[has homonym: home] a large / ShGdFnTizEm / / ThelG(T)PSplaNktEn /
helmet chiefly of the 13th century Gk Gk
worn over a hood of mail or close- a way of life based on or plankton typical of small bodies of
fitting steel cap and supported by suggesting the principle that still fresh water.
the shoulders rather than the head. pleasure or happiness is the sole or Dozens of species gathered at the
Each knight wore a heaume and chief good in life. south end of the lake to feed on
carried a lance in the tournament. When André turned 30, he heleoplankton.
renounced his youthful hedonism.
hebdomad helicon
n hegemony
/ ShebdETmad / n helicopter
Gk / hDSjemEnG /
a group of seven. Gk heliography
Though some people think there is preponderant influence or authority
just a hebdomad of stars in the (as of a government or state) : heliolatry
Pleiades, there are actually many leadership, dominance.
more. Nazi Germany attempted world
hegemony and failed.
Page 144 of 349

heliophobous hemisphere hepatitis
adj n n
/ ThGlGSBfEbEs / / ShemDTsfi(E)r / / ThepEStIZDs /
Gk + Gk + Ecf Gk Gk > L
avoiding the sun : shade-loving. a half of the celestial sphere. inflammation of the liver.
Jackie planted ferns, hostas, and Vince’s star chart depicts all Serum hepatitis can be transmitted
other heliophobous plants in her visible heavenly objects in the through blood transfusions and
shady garden. hemisphere. unsterilized hypodermic needles.
heliotrope hemophiliac heptarchy

n
helium / ThGmESfilGTak / herbaceous
Gk adj
helmeted one affected with a tendency to / (h)ErSbCshEs /
uncontrolled bleeding. L
helotry A hemophiliac must take care to of, relating to, or having the
n avoid even minor cuts and bruises. characteristics of a nonwoody
/ ShelEtrG / plant.
Gk > L + Ecf hemorrhage Monique surrounded her patio with
the slaves or serfs of a country or herbaceous perennials.
an estate. hemorrhagic
In ancient Sparta the helotry was herbalist
required to serve in the army. hendiadys n
n / S(h)ErbElDst /
hematogenous / henSdIEdDs / L + Ecff
adj Gk one that collects, grows, or deals in
/ ThGmEStBjEnEs / the expression of an idea by two medicinal plants.
Gk nouns connected by and instead of Lisa consulted an herbalist
spread by way of the blood stream. by a noun and an adjective. regarding her wart.
Andrea was treated with antibiotics Thierry used the hendiadys iron
to prevent any hematogenous and bit to denote an iron bit. herbarium
infection. n
henna / T(h)ErSba(a)rGEm /
hematoma n L
n / ShenE / a room, building, or institution
/ ThGmEStPmE / Ar housing a collection of dried plant
Gk > L a reddish brown dye used in tinting specimens.
a tumor or swelling containing the hair, skin, or nails red. Jackson was looking forward to
blood. The ancient use of henna is visiting the herbarium while on
A hematoma can result from confirmed by the presence of the vacation.
various types of blunt trauma to the dye in Egyptian mummies.
head. hercogamy
hennin
hemeralopia n Herculean
n / ShenDn / adj
/ ThemErESlPpGE / F / ThErkyESlGEn /
Gk a high cone-shaped headdress Gk name > L
a defect of vision characterized by usually with a thin veil pendent of heroic proportions.
reduced visual capacity in bright from the top worn by European Jim’s competitor was known for his
lights. women in the 15th century. Herculean frame and great
A deficiency of vitamin A can lead Lady Agnes appeared at the king’s strength.
to hemeralopia. ball wearing an elegant hennin.
hereditary
Page 145 of 349

heresy heroic heteroclite
n adj
/ SherEsG / / hDSrPik / heterodox
Gk Gk > L adj
dissent from a dominant theory or arising from, exhibiting, or / SheZErETdBks /
opinion in any field. suggestive of boldness, spirit, or Gk
Much of what used to be daring. differing from an established
considered scientific heresy is now The mountain climbers made a religious point of view.
regarded as truth. heroic effort to reach the peak. Father O’Driscoll holds a few
heterodox opinions that astonish
heretical heroine his parish.
adj n
/ hDSreZDkEl / / SherEwDn / heterogeneous
L Gk > L
of, relating to, or characterized by [has homonym: heroin] the heterophemy
departure from accepted beliefs or principal female character in a n
standards : unorthodox. drama, novel, story, or narrative / SheZErETfGmG /
A free society allows the expression poem. Gk + Gk
of all opinions, however heretical In the melodrama the spunky unconscious use of words other
they may seem. heroine took the law into her own than those intended.
hands and brought down the When his client used the term
heritage villain. debtor to mean “creditor,” the
accountant corrected the
hermeneutics herpetology heterophemy.
n pl n
/ ThErmESn(y)VZiks / / ThErpEStBlEjG / heuristic
Gk Gk > L adj
the study of the general principles a branch of the science of animal / S(h)yUTristik /
of biblical interpretation. life that treats of reptiles and Gk
Experts in hermeneutics met to amphibians. of or relating to exploratory
discuss the Dead Sea scrolls. Jason studied herpetology to learn problem-solving techniques that
about the habits of cold-blooded utilize self-educating strategies to
hermetically creatures. improve performance.
adv The computer that beat Gary
/ hE(r)SmeZDk(E)lG / herring Kasparov in the chess tournament
Gk + Ecff was programmed to use heuristic
in a manner that prevents entry or herringbone methods.
change. n
With its flowered wallpaper and / SheriNTbPn / hexamethyl
quaint furniture, the old house E
looked as though it had been a pattern (as on a fabric) made up hibachi
hermetically sealed sometime in the of adjacent rows of parallel lines n
1880s. where any two adjacent rows slope / hGSbBchG /
slightly in reverse directions. Jpn
hermit Dina wove herself a new wool scarf a charcoal brazier.
in herringbone. Antoni’s hot dog fell through the
hermitage grill of the hibachi onto the
n hesitancy glowing coals below.
/ ShErmDZij /
Gk + L > F hesitant hibernal
a secluded residence or private adj adj
retreat. / ShezEZEnt / / hISbErnFl /
Dave’s father has always dreamed L L
of living in the city during the week tending to hold back, pause, or of or relating to winter : wintry.
and escaping to some country falter. Horace admired the hibernal scene
hermitage on the weekends. The toddler took hesitant steps depicted in the painting.
toward the large dog.
hibernate
hesthogenous
Page 146 of 349

hibiscus hieroglyphics hippodrome
n n pl n
/ hISbiskEs / / ThI(E)rPSglifiks / / ShipETdrPm /
L Gk Gk > L > F
any plant or flower of a large characters in the ancient Egyptian an arena for equestrian
widely distributed genus of herbs, writing system which are for the performances.
shrubs, or small trees with dentate most part recognizable pictures of The circus horses performed for the
or lobed leaves and large showy objects. spectators in the hippodrome.
flowers. Egyptian hieroglyphics remained a
Darla planted a hibiscus outside mystery until the Rosetta Stone hippogriff
her bedroom window. provided the key to deciphering n
them. / ShipETgrif /
hickory Gk > L > It > F
n hierophant [Note: Could be confused with
/ Shik(E)rG / n hippogriffin.] a legendary animal
Virginia word / ShI(E)rETfant / having the foreparts of a winged
any of a genus of North American Gk griffin and the body and
trees of the walnut family that a priest in ancient Greece. hindquarters of a horse.
produce a hard nut. The hierophant portrayed in Tim’s The Gothic cathedral contained
Sophie napped in the shade of the history book was dressed in an many strange carvings, including a
tall hickory. animal skin and wore a crown of hippogriff and several gargoyles.
leaves.
hideous hippopotamian
adj hilarious adj
/ ShidGEs / / Thi(T)pPpEStCmGEn /
F>E Himalayan Gk > L + Ecf
offensive to the sight : gruesome, n unwieldy because of massive size.
ugly. / ThimESlCEn / Uncle Lon’s hippopotamian
During the thunderstorm, Ernie Asian geog name armchair takes up half the living
saw a hideous face at the window. any of a breed of domestic cats room.
developed by crossing the Persian
hiemal and Siamese. hippopotamus
adj A Himalayan won “Best of Show” n
/ ShIEmEl / in the local cat competition this / ThipESpBZEmEs /
L winter. Gk
of or relating to winter : wintry. any of various large herbivorous
Inger’s favorite hiemal activity is hinge four-toed chiefly aquatic mammals
skiing. n with an extremely large head and
/ Shinj / mouth, bare and very thick skin,
hierarchy E and short legs.
n a jointed or flexible device on The hippopotamus spends most of
/ ShIETrBrkG / which a door, lid, or other swinging the day in water because in the
Gk > L > F > E part turns. warm, dry air it loses water
a form of government administered The hinge stopped creaking after through its skin.
by an authoritarian group. Tony oiled it.
Michelle’s study of hierarchy made hippotigrine
her appreciate living in the United hippocampus adj
States. n / ThipEStIgrDn /
/ ThipESkampEs / Gk + Gk
hieroglyph Gk of or relating to the zebra.
n a curved enlongated ridge The city zoo has a special exhibit
/ ShI(E)rETglif / extending over the lateral ventricles on the hippotigrine environment.
Gk of the brain.
a character used in a system of Injury to the hippocampus often
writing mainly in pictorial results in emotional impairment.
characters.
The Egyptian hieroglyph for the
word king was a royal head
complete with beard.
Page 147 of 349

hircine hoeing homburg
adj n
/ ShErTsIn / hoist / ShBmTbErg /
L v G
of, relating to, or resembling a goat; / ShOist / a man’s hat of smooth-finished felt
especially : resembling a goat in imit D or G with a stiff curled brim and a high
smell. raise, lift, elevate. tapered crown creased lengthwise.
After the week-long camping trip, Manuel decided to use a crane to The villain in the movie wore a
the Flidre family was relieved to hoist the stone into place. dark suit and a black homburg.
get out of their hircine clothes and
into the shower. hokku homely
n adj
hirsute / ShO(T)kV / / ShPmlG /
Jpn E
hirundine a fixed lyric form of Japanese commonplace, familiar.
adj origin having three short unrhymed Mr. Mann can translate the most
/ hDSrEndDn / lines of five, seven, and five complex issue into homely terms.
L syllables and being typically
of, relating to, or resembling the epigrammatic or suggestive. homeostasis
swallow. Haiku, the most familiar form of n
The hirundine population in near- hokku, pertains to the seasons. / ThPmGPSstCsDs /
equatorial countries rises sharply Gk
when autumn returns to the holard a tendency toward maintenance of
northern hemisphere. a relatively stable internal
holiness environment in the bodies of higher
histrionic animals through a series of
hollandaise interacting physiological processes.
histrionics Panting is the primary means of
n pl hollyhock achieving homeostasis for dogs.
/ ThistrGSBniks /
L holocaust homespun
theatrical performances. n
Teresa loved the theater from an / ShBlETkOst / homestead
early age and excelled in Gk n
histrionics while in school. a complete or thorough sacrifice or / ShPmzTted /
destruction especially by fire. E+E
hitchhike Many lives were lost in the hotel the home and land of a family;
holocaust. especially : ancestral home.
hoarseness The city offered reduced property
n holograph taxes on any homestead occupied
/ ShP(E)rsnDs / n by the legal owner.
E / ShBlETgraf /
the quality or state of having a Gk homily
rough-sounding voice. a document (as a letter, deed, or n
Paul’s remedy for hoarseness is hot will) wholly in the handwriting of / ShBmElG /
water with lemon. the person from whom it proceeds Gk
and whose act it purports to be. a lecture or discussion on a moral
hoax Amongst the early wills of theme : admonition.
n Middlesex County, Roberta found At the baccalaureate service, Mr.
/ ShPks / many a fascinating holograph. Lopez gave a brief homily on the
unknown theme “To thine own self be true.”
[has homonym: hokes] an act hominy
intended to trick or dupe : a piece
of trickery. homogenized
Sarah forwarded the e-mail
message, unaware she was
participating in a hoax.
hoboism
Page 148 of 349

homologate horizontal hosanna
v adj n
/ hPSmBlETgCt / / ThOrESzBntFl / / hPSzanE /
Gk L + Ecf Heb > Gk > L > E
approve, allow, confirm. placed or operating in a plane an expression of enthusiastic praise
The fact that the Joneses do not parallel to the horizon. : acclamation.
appeal the court’s decision does Lori wore a sweater with red and Mr. Wong greeted Katya with a
not mean they homologate it. blue horizontal stripes. loud hosanna.
homologous hormone hosiery

n
homonym horologium / ShPzh(E)rG /
n E + Ecff
homophonous / ThOrESlPj(G)Em / stockings, socks.
L Mrs. Desmond prefers silk hosiery
honorific an instrument (as a clock) for to that made of nylon.
n measuring time.
/ TBnESrifik / A sundial was the ancient hospice
L Egyptians’ horologium. n
conferring or conveying public / ShBspDs /
esteem. horrendous L
Dr. Ellerman received an honorific a facility or program designed to
wreath at the banquet. horripilation provide a caring environment for
n supplying the physical and
hoochinoo / hOTripESlCshEn / emotional needs of the terminally
L ill.
hoodwink a bristling of the hair of the head or Rebekah works as a counselor at a
body (as from disease, terror, or hospice for the elderly.
hooligan chilliness) : gooseflesh.
n Jennifer reacted to the movie’s hospitable
/ ShVlDgEn / scary scenes with noticeable
Ir name? horripilation. hospitality
thug, hoodlum.
After an intense interrogation by hortative hostage
detectives, the hooligan finally adj
broke down and confessed. / ShO(r)ZEZiv / hostelry
L n
horde giving persuasive counsel : / ShBstFlrG /
n advisory, urging strongly. L>F>E
/ ShP(E)rd / Joe’s hortative letter to the editor a place where food and lodging are
Mongolic > Pol > G&F of the newspaper persuaded many available to the traveler : inn, hotel.
[has homonym: hoard] a vast citizens to contact their To celebrate their tenth
number : crowd, swarm. representatives regarding the anniversary, the Mortons returned
To prepare for the horde of proposed budget. to the French hostelry where they
tourists, the police department is spent their honeymoon.
using computer modeling to aid in horticulture
logistics. n hotelless
/ ShO(r)ZETkElchE(r) /
horizon L howel
n the science and art of growing
/ hESrIzFn / fruits, vegetables, flowers, or
Gk > L > E ornamental plants.
the point where the earth appears to Mr. Sakai’s skill in horticulture has
meet the sky. won him many blue ribbons at
Stan thought he saw an airplane on garden shows.
the horizon.
Page 149 of 349

howitzer humane humoresque
n adj n
/ ShaUDtsE(r) / / hyVSmCn / / T(h)yVmESresk /
Czech > G > D L>F>E (E + Fcf) > G
a cannon employed to fire marked by compassion, sympathy, a musical composition typically
projectiles at a target (as enemy or consideration for other human whimsical or fanciful in character.
artillery behind a ridge) which beings or animals. Schumann’s opus 88 is a
cannot be reached by flat-trajectory Sharon received an award for her humoresque for violin, cello, and
weapons. humane treatment of stray pets. piano.
Corporal Slater towed the howitzer
to the base of the ridge. humectant Hunanese
n adj
hoyden / hyVSmektEnt / / ThVnESnGz /
n L Chin geog name
/ ShOidFn / a substance that promotes retention of or relating to the province of
D? of moisture. Hunan, China.
a girl or woman of loud, boisterous, Toothpastes contain a humectant to The waiter indignantly replied that
or carefree behavior : tomboy. carry the abrasive and other hamburger was not a feature of
Sierra knew that her skateboard agents. Hunanese cuisine.
expertise and casual clothing made
her look like a hoyden to the humerus hundredth
neighbors, but she didn’t care. adj
humidistat / ShEndrDdth /
hoyle n E
n / (h)yVSmidETstat / being number 100 in a countable
/ ShOil / L>F>E series.
unknown an instrument for regulating or Residents lined the streets to watch
a natural object used as an archery maintaining the degree of moisture. the parade on Danville’s hundredth
mark at short range. Since he bought the humidistat, anniversary.
Martha used a large mushroom in Rudy has gotten fewer colds.
her backyard as a hoyle. hurl
humidor
hubbub n hurricane
n / ShyVmETdO(E)r / n
/ ShETbEb / L or F + Ecf / ShErETkCn /
Celt? a case or enclosure (as for storing Taino > Sp
a noisy confusion of sound. cigars) in which the air is kept a tropical cyclone with winds of 73
In the hubbub after the concert, properly humidified. miles per hour or greater.
Bronwen did not notice the Art always kept his expensive When the townspeople realized that
pickpocket who took her wallet. cigars in a humidor. the hurricane was heading their
way, they boarded up their
hubristically humiliation windows and evacuated.
adv n
/ hyVSbristDk(E)lG / / (T)hyVTmilGSCshEn / hurtle
Gk L>F>E
insolently, vainly, arrogantly. the state of being reduced to a hussar
Lance’s opinions, though brilliant lower position in one's own eyes or n
and sound, are unwelcome because the eyes of another : an instance of / hESzBr /
he conveys them so hubristically. being humbled. L > Serb > Hung
Mary did not even try to control [Note: Could be confused with
huisache her rage and humiliation. huzza, huzzah.] a member of the
light cavalry of various European
armies usually distinguished by a
brilliant much-decorated uniform.
In a short story by Thomas Hardy,
a young Englishwoman has an ill-
fated romance with a homesick
German hussar.
Page 150 of 349

hutch hydraulic hydroplane
adj v
hyacinth / hISdrOlik / / ShIdrETplCn /
n Gk > L Gk + L
/ ShIETsin(t)th / operated, moved, or effected by skim over the water with the hull
Gk > L means of water. either clear of the surface or barely
a common garden flower widely The stream and the waterwheel immersed.
grown for its beauty and fragrance. were sure signs that the grain mill Lex loves to make his speedboat
Mimi planted a hyacinth right next was operated by hydraulic power. hydroplane across a glassy lake.
to her screened porch.
hydrofoil hyetology
hyalithe n
hydrogen / ThIEStBlEjG /
hybrid n Gk
n / ShIdrDjEn / a branch of meteorology that deals
/ ShIbrDd / Gk > F with precipitation (as of rain or
L a nonmetallic element that is the snow).
an offspring of two animals or simplest and lightest of the Even a period of extended drought
plants of different races, breeds, elements and which is normally a can be of interest to a student of
varieties, species, or genera. colorless, odorless, and highly hyetology.
A hybrid often has increased vigor flammable diatomic gas.
and strength. Hydrogen and oxygen are the hygiene
components of water.
hybridize hygienist
v hydrography
/ ShIbrDTdIz / n hymn
L / hISdrBgrEfG / n
cause to produce offspring that are Gk / Shim /
a cross between breeds : interbreed. description and study of seas, lakes, Gk
Horace is attempting to hybridize a rivers, and other waters. a song of praise to God.
large, showy, red rose and a A knowledge of hydrography is Wesley remembered every hymn
smaller, more fragrant variety. helpful in navigation. from his days at the Episcopal
school.
hydrangea hydrolysis
n n hymnody
/ hISdrCnjE / / hISdrBlEsDs / n
Gk > L Gk + Gk / ShimnEdG /
any of a genus of shrubs of the a chemical process of Gk
family Saxifragaceae having showy decomposition involving the a body of hymns of a specified kind
clusters of usually sterile white or splitting of a bond and the addition or period.
tinted flowers. of the hydrogen cation and the Gospel songs enjoy wide popularity
Although the flowers of the hydroxide anion of water. in American hymnody.
hydrangea are spectacular, the Digestive enzymes promote the
leaves are poisonous. hydrolysis of nutrients into simpler hypaethral
compounds.
hydrant hyperbaton
n hydrophilous n
/ ShIdrEnt / adj / hISpErbETtBn /
Gk / hISdrBfElEs / Gk
a discharge pipe with a valve and Gk a transposition or inversion of
spout at which water may be drawn pollinated by the agency of water. idiomatic word order.
from the mains of waterworks. The ultimate adaptation to aquatic Joey decided the hyperbaton
The city workers affixed a metal life is the formation of completely echoed the hills fit his poem better
rod with a red diamond on the top submerged hydrophilous flowers. than the hills echoed.
of the hydrant in Mishi’s yard so
they would be able to find it if it
snowed.
Page 151 of 349

hyperbole hypobulia hypothalamus
n n n
/ hISpErbE(T)lG / / ThIpPSbyVlGE / / ThI(T)pPSthalEmEs /
Gk Gk > L Gk
extravagant exaggeration that lowered ability to make decisions a part of the brain that is usually
represents something as much or to act. considered to include vital
greater or less, better or worse, or The climbers began to suffer from autonomic regulatory centers.
more intense than it really is or that hypobulia as they moved higher The hypothalamus exercises
depicts the impossible as actual. and higher on the mountain. control over involuntary actions
To say that life as we know it will such as temperature regulation,
never be the same after the next hypochondria emotional responses, and the
election is hyperbole. n rhythm of sleep.
/ ThIpESkBndrGE /
hypercritical Gk hypothesis
adj extreme depression of mind or
/ ThIpE(r)SkriZDkEl / spirits often centered on imaginary hypothetical
Gk physical ailments.
meticulously or excessively Having found nothing physically hypotrophy
inclined to notice faults and wrong with her, Sylvia’s doctor n
imperfections. noted that her persistent complaints / hISpBtrEfG /
Ellen’s skating coach was about her health are probably due Gk
hypercritical of her technique the to hypochondria. subnormal growth.
day before a competition. Nutritional deficiency resulted in
hypochondriac hypotrophy among the aborigines.
hyperglycemia n
n / ThIpESkBndrGTak / hypotyposis
/ ThIpE(r)glISsGmGE / Gk n
Gk one whose depression is centered / ThIpPTtISpPsDs /
excess of sugar in the blood. on imaginary physical ailments. Gk
Since diabetes runs in her family, Colin was an hysterical half-crazy [Note: Could be confused with
Carla is regularly tested for little hypochondriac. plural hypotyposes.] vivid
hyperglycemia. picturesque description.
hypocorism Mark Twain employed hypotyposis
hypertension n in his writing.
n / hISpBkETrizEm /
/ ThIpE(r)StenchEn / Gk hypsography
Gk + L a pet name or term of endearment.
abnormally high arterial blood Susan’s parents bestowed the hyssop
pressure. hypocorism “Bubbles” on her n
Doctors recommend reducing salt when she was a toddler. / ShisEp /
intake for patients with Sem > Gk > L > F > E
hypertension. hypocrisy a European mint that has highly
n aromatic and pungent leaves and is
hypertrophic / hDSpBkrEsG / often cultivated in gardens as a
adj Gk > L > F > E remedy for bruises.
/ ThIpErStrBfik / the act or practice of pretending to Aunt Cara made a paste of hyssop
Gk + Gk + Ecf be what one is not or to have and oil and applied it to Darien’s
affected with or tending toward principles or beliefs that one does bruised shoulder.
overgrowth or excessive not have.
development of an organ or part. The abominable proceeding was hysteria
After Blake lost one kidney, the nothing but a system of hypocrisy n
other became hypertrophic. and deceit, espionage and / hDSsterGE /
treachery. Gk > L
hyphen conduct or an outbreak of conduct
hypodermic exhibiting unmanageable fear or
hypnology emotional excess.
Hysteria overcame the defendant
when the guilty verdict was
announced.
Page 152 of 349

hysterical ichthyology ideogram
adj n n
/ hiSsterDkEl / / TikJGSBlEjG / / SIdGETgram /
Gk Gk Gk + Gk
exhibiting unrestrained a branch of zoology that deals with a character in Chinese writing
emotionalism. fishes. made by combining two or more
When their team won the world Mr. Pout didn’t need a degree in other characters for words of
championship, the fans became ichthyology to see that he had related meaning.
hysterical with joy. caught a dead branch. In Chinese, the ideogram for to
love depicts a woman and her
iatrogenic icicle child.
adj n
/ ITatrPSjenik / / SITsikEl / idiosyncratic
Gk > L E adj
induced by a physician—used a pendent usually conical mass of / TidGPTsinSkraZik /
chiefly of ailments induced in a ice formed by the freezing of Gk
patient by autosuggestion based on dripping water. marked by a peculiarity of physical
a physician’s words or actions By evening, the longest icicle or mental constitution or
during examination. hanging from the eaves had grown temperament.
Belinda had iatrogenic pains after to about two feet. In his autobigraphy Andrew
her annual checkup. described the idiosyncratic
iconoclast behavior of his zany upper-class
icequake n family.
/ ISkBnETklast /
ichneumon Gk > L idiosyncratically
n one who attacks established beliefs, adv
/ ikSn(y)VmEn / ideals, customs, or institutions. / TidGETsinSkraZDk(E)lG /
Gk Malcolm has always considered G>E
any member of the insect family himself the iconoclast of the family. in a manner peculiar to the
Ichneumonidae. individual.
The ichneumon burrowed into the icosahedron Because Emily Dickinson wrote so
caterpillar larva, providing a n idiosyncratically, her poems are
natural check on the destructive / TITkPsEShGdrEn / immediately recognizable.
insect. Gk
a figure or solid formed by 20 idly
ichnolite plane faces.
n The icosahedron occurs frequently idolater
/ SiknETlIt / in nature in molecular and viral
Gk structures. idolatry
a fossil footprint.
The museum guide showed us an identical idyllic
ichnolite of a plesiosaur. adj
identify / ISdilik /
ichnology v Gk
n / ISdentETfI / pleasing or picturesque in its
/ ikSnBlEjG / F natural simplicity.
Gk show or prove the sameness of (as The Elsons spent a week in an
the study of fossil footprints. with something known, stated, or idyllic little town in the Pyrenees.
Several students interested in possessed).
ichnology took a field trip to The victim was asked to identify the igneous
Dinosaur State Park in attacker from a lineup. adj
Connecticut. / SignGEs /
L
of, relating to, or suggestive of fire.
The igneous desert air shimmered
on the horizon.
Page 153 of 349

ignite illegible illusory
v adj adj
/ igSnIt / / i(l)SlejEbEl / / DSlVs(E)rG /
L L L
set aflame : kindle. not capable of being read or of, relating to, or marked by
The arson squad spent hours trying deciphered. illusion : deceptive.
to discover what could ignite such Although the physician’s Citizens of both countries hope that
a variety of apparently safe prescription appeared illegible, the the apparent peace between the two
materials. pharmacist seemed to have no nations is not illusory.
trouble deciphering it.
ignominious illustrate
illegitimate v
ignominy / SilETstrCt /
n illeism L
/ SignETminG / make clear by giving or by serving
L>F illicit as an example or instance.
disgraceful or dishonorable The stained-glass windows
conduct, quality, or action. illiterate illustrate the Nativity scene.
Although the coward was glad to
be alive, he felt the ignominy of illth illustration
abandoning his comrades. n
/ Silth / image
ignoramus ON > E
n the condition of being imagery
/ TignESrCmEs / economically unprosperous or
L miserable. imaginary
an utterly uninformed person : Sharon didn’t mind her family’s adj
dunce. illth as much as she minded the fact / DSmajETnerG /
Schuyler is so afraid of his own that they had all simply given up on L
intelligence that he refuses to speak any possibility of prosperity. having no real existence : existing
in class and refers to himself as a only in imagination or fancy :
“happy ignoramus.” illuminati fictitious, hypothetical.
ignorance n pl Not all of the characters in the
/ DTlVmESnBZ(T)G / novelist’s best seller were
ikebana L > It imaginary.
n persons who are or who claim to be
/ TikDSbBnE / unusually enlightened. imbecile
Jpn The mayoral candidate worked n
the Japanese art of flower arranging hard to win the support of the city’s / SimbEsEl /
that emphasizes form and balance. illuminati. L>F
Hana is trained in ikebana, and her one marked by mental deficiency.
arrangements are displayed in illumination The professor told his students that
many restaurants throughout the n they should not be writing as if
city. / DTlVmESnCshEn / their reader were an imbecile.
L>F>E
ileitis a giving of physical light or the imbecilic
n state of being lighted up. adj
/ TilGSIZDs / Because of its many windows, / TimbESsilik /
L Sarah’s office always has ample L > F + Ecf
inflammation of the lower small illumination. characteristic or suggestive of one
intestine. that acts stupidly or recklessly.
Stella mistook her ileitis for illusion Iris effectively tuned out her
indigestion. brother-in-law as he described
another of his imbecilic money-
iliacus making schemes.
imitative
Page 154 of 349

immaculate immiserization impalpable
adj adj
/ DSmakyElDt / immolate / imSpalpEbEl /
L>E v L+L+L
having no spot, soil, or smirch : / SimETlCt / incapable of being felt by the
spotlessly clean. L touch.
Told that her room must be [has near homonym: emulate] The puppy began chasing his
immaculate before she could go to sacrifice or abnegate (as oneself) impalpable shadow.
the mall with friends, Tollie started usually in the interests of some
cleaning feverishly. cause or objective. imparisyllabic
Sheri persuaded the monk not to
immalleable immolate himself in protest. impasse
adj n
/ i(m)SmalGEbEl / immortal / SimTpas /
L>F>E adj F
not open to outside forces or / i(m)SmOrZFl / barrier, deadlock.
influences : unyielding, rigid. L A rockslide created an impasse on
Dean remained immalleable in his connected with or possessing the mountain road.
refusal to resign. everlasting life.
The priest warned his flock of the impeccable
immature many dangers to their immortal adj
adj souls, such as envy, greed, and / TimSpekEbEl /
/ imTmEStU(E)r / sloth. L
L free from fault or blame : flawless.
lacking complete growth or immunocyte A background investigation
development. n affirmed the candidate’s
The immature insect resembles the / SimyEnETsIt / impeccable character.
adult in form and eating habits but L
differs in size, body proportions, a cell that functions in the impeccancy
and color pattern. prevention of a disease.
The immunocyte is the body’s impecunious
immense primary defense against germs.
adj impecuniously
/ DSmen(t)s / immured adv
L>F v / TimpESkyVnyEslG /
characterized by greatness in size / DSmyU(E)rd / L
or degree. L in an indigent, penniless manner.
Wilbur’s portliness is a reflection [has near homonyms: enured, George squandered his inheritance
of his immense appetite. inured] enclosed within or as if and plodded through the remainder
within walls. of his life impecuniously.
immersion While Sir Walter Raleigh was
immured in the Tower of London, impedance
imminent he used his time to write his n
adj Historie of the World. / DmSpGdFn(t)s /
/ SimEnEnt / L
L immutable the apparent opposition in an
ready to take place : near at hand. adj electrical circuit to the flow of an
Although Ellen’s departure date / i(m)SmyVZEbEl / alternating current that is analagous
was imminent, she was not ready to L to the actual electrical resistance to
go. not capable of or susceptible to a direct current.
change. A high-fidelity amplifier must have
immiscible The immutable laws of a low output impedance to make
adj thermodynamics preclude the loudspeakers produce natural
/ i(m)SmisEbEl / invention of a perpetual motion sound.
L machine.
not capable of mixing or being
mixed. impair
Oil and water are immiscible.
Page 155 of 349

impediment impertinence implacable
n n adj
/ DmSpedEmEnt / / imSpErt(F)nEn(t)s / / imSplakEbEl /
L L L>F
hindrance, block. lack of due respect for others in not capable of being appeased or
Clementine’s lack of a degree was conduct. pacified.
an impediment to her getting a For his impertinence Mrs. Brennan The defeated candidate harbored
good job. sent Kyle to the principal’s office. implacable resentment toward his
opponent.
impedimenta imperturbable
n pl adj implausible
/ DmTpedESmentE / / TimpErStErbEbEl /
L L>E implement
things that hinder progress or unlikely to be disconcerted, n
movement; especially : baggage, agitated, or alarmed. / SimplEmEnt /
equipment, or supplies. Hitherto imperturbable, Stacy L+L
Regina always travels with one suddenly showed signs of alarm. a tool or utensil forming part of
small carry-on bag and considers equipment for work.
anything more to be impedimenta. impervious Dawson discovered a paleolithic
adj stone implement near the entrance
impenetrable / imSpErvGEs / to a cave.
adj L
/ imSpenEtrEbEl / not allowing entrance or passage implicit
L>F>E through : impenetrable. adj
incapable of being comprehended. Ted covered the woodpile with a / imSplisDt /
Sarah found Einstein’s theories tarp impervious to water. L
impenetrable. capable of being inferred : implied.
impetigo Implicit in Amy’s reaction was a
imperativally n message for Carole to mind her
/ TimpEStI(T)gP / own business.
imperative L
an acute contagious skin disease imponderabilia
imperceptible transmitted by contact between
adj persons or between healthy and importance
/ impE(r)SseptEbEl / infected skin. n
L Impetigo can quickly make the / DmSpOrtFn(t)s /
extremely slight, gradual, or subtle. rounds in a kindergarten class. L
The air was filled with a delicate, the quality or state of being marked
springlike fragrance, almost impetuousness by or possessing consequence :
imperceptible. n weight, significance.
/ imSpechEwEsnes / Mrs. Lynch cannot understand why
imperial L>F>E some students do not see the
adj the quality or state of being importance of good manners.
/ imSpirGEl / impulsively vehement in feeling.
L Theo’s youthful frankness and impossible
[Note: The definition provided is impetuousness were excused by his adj
not the one most commonly boss. / imSpBsEbEl /
associated with this word.] being L > It > F
the British legal standard : impetus incapable of being or occurring.
belonging to the official British n So many things are possible just as
series of weights and measures. / SimpEZEs / long as you don’t know they’re
Several measurement terms are L impossible.
used both in the U.S. customary a driving or impelling force.
and British imperial systems. Ralph’s new girlfriend was the
impetus behind his new exercise
program.
impinge
Page 156 of 349

impoverish impromptu inanimate
v adv adj
/ DmSpBv(E)rish / / DmSprBm(p)Tt(y)V / / inSanEmDt /
F>E L>F L
make poor : reduce to indigence. without previous study, not endowed with consciousness or
Medical bills will impoverish the preparation, or consideration : on animal life.
Williams family if outside aid is not the spur of the moment. Vera talked to her plants as if they
available. Leah is able to speak impromptu were not inanimate objects.
and at length on countless subjects.
imprecation inanition
n improprieties n
/ TimprDSkCshEn / n pl / TinESnishEn /
L / TimprESprIEZGz / L
[Note: Could be confused with L the exhausted condition which
imbrication.] curse : malediction. unsuitable or improper acts or results from a complete lack of
Jerod did not realize that the remarks. food and water.
microphone was on when he Emma was willing to forget Mr. The injured hiker, finally found
uttered an imprecation under his Elton’s late improprieties and be as after a three-day search, had to be
breath. well satisfied with him as before. treated for inanition.
impresario impropriety inanity

n n
/ TimprESsBrGTP / impugn / DSnanEZG /
It v L
[has homonym: empresario] the / DmSpyVn / meaningless quality : shallowness.
projector, manager, or conductor of L The inanity of conversation at the
an opera or concert company. assail by words or arguments : party made Karen think up an
The impresario arranged for the make insinuations against. excuse to leave early.
opera company to perform in Josie’s comment was a feeble
several cities. attempt to impugn Sara’s honesty. inapplicable
adj
imprescriptible impuissance / TinSaplDkEbEl /
adj L
/ TimprGSskriptEbEl / impunity not adapted : not suitable.
L>F n The name Brutus was inapplicable
inalienable, absolute. / DmSpyVnEZG / to the small dog.
A dictator considers few human L
rights imprescriptible. exemption or freedom from inaugural
punishment, harm, or loss. adj
impressionable Mr. Starks allowed anglers to / DSnOgyErEl /
adj trespass on his land with impunity. L + Ecf
/ DmSpresh(E)nEbEl / relating to or performed or
L + L > E + Ecf imputable pronounced at a formal induction
easily influenced or affected. or investiture.
Dan’s grandmother considered him imputrescible In his inaugural address, the
very young and very adj president promised to get the
impressionable. / TimpyVStresEbEl / country on the road to economic
L recovery.
imprimatur not capable of rotting.
n Imputrescible trash is filling up inauguration
/ TimprDSmBZE(r) / dump sites throughout the state.
L
a sign or mark of approval. inaccurate
The dean put her imprimatur on the
smoking ban. inadvertence
imprimis inagglutinable
Page 157 of 349

incandescence inchoate incomprehensible
n adj adj
/ Tin(T)kEnSdesFn(t)s / / inSkPDt / / TinTkBmprDShen(t)sEbEl /
L>F L L>E
the glowing of a body due to its imperfectly formed or formulated : lying above or beyond the reach of
high temperature. unorganized. the human mind.
The first light bulbs were The songwriter explained that his Every civilization tries to penetrate
illuminated via the phenomenon of melodies usually begin as inchoate the incomprehensible mysteries of
incandescence. humming. creation.
incandescent incienso inconclusible

n
incarcerate / Tin(t)sGSen(t)(T)sP / incondite
v L > Sp
/ DnSkBrsETrCt / a desert shrub producing a resin incongruous
L that when burned emits a fragrant
put in prison. odor. inconnu
Because the crime was his first Early missionaries in the Southwest
offense, Lonnie was hopeful that used to burn incienso in their inconscient
the judge would not incarcerate churches. adj
him. / inSkBnchEnt /
incinerate L>F
incarceration v lacking consciousness or full
n / DnSsinETrCt / awareness.
/ (T)inTkBrsESrCshEn / L The inconscient pedestrian was an
L cause to burn to ashes. easy victim for the mugger.
a confining or state of being In her fury, Elise decided to
confined : imprisonment. incinerate all of Jerry’s letters. incontrovertible
The terrorist was sentenced to
incarceration for the rest of his life. incipiency incorrigible
n adj
incendiary / DnSsipGEnsG / / inSkOrDjEbEl /
n L L
/ DnSsendGTerG / [Note: Could be confused with bad beyond the possibility of
L incipience.] beginning, correction or rehabilitation : utterly
[Note: Could be confused with commencement. bad or depraved.
incendiarist.] a person who Stan was quick to extinguish the They sentenced the incorrigible
deliberately sets fire to a building fire in its incipiency. offender to life imprisonment.
or other property.
The state fire inspectors determined incipient increment
that the fire was the work of an
incendiary. inclement incubator
adj n
incense / inSklemEnt / / SiNkyETbCZE(r) /
L L
incessancy unmerciful, rigorous. an apparatus for housing premature
The harsh sentence of an inclement or sick babies in an environment of
incessant judge took 30 years of Sam’s life. controlled humidity, oxygen
adj supply, and temperature.
/ inSsesFnt / incognito Who would have thought that the
L star linebacker spent the first three
continuing or following without incoherence months of his life in an incubator?
interruption.
Incessant changes in other parts of incompetent
this restless country bypass the
inhabitants of Sleepy Hollow.
Page 158 of 349

inculcate indefatigable indicible
v adj
/ DnSkElTkCt / / TindDSfaZDgEbEl / indictment
L L n
teach and impress by frequent incapable of being tired out : / DnSdItmEnt /
repetitions or admonitions. untiring. L > AF
Religion is professed and practiced The mayor thanked his an official written statement
in various forms, yet most of them indefatigable campaign workers for charging a person with an offense.
inculcate honesty, truth, their invaluable help in getting him The grand jury’s indictment of the
temperance, gratitude, and the love reelected. seven men charges that they
of humanity. conspired to smuggle guns into the
indefeasible country.
incumbency adj
n / indDSfGzEbEl / indigenous
/ DnSkEmbEnsG / L > F > AF adj
L not capable of being or liable to / DnSdijEnEs /
the sphere of action or period of being voided, annulled, or undone. L
office of one who holds a public or The Constitution vests the populace originating or produced naturally in
academic office. with indefeasible rights. a particular land or region or
Political analysts now say that a environment.
candidate’s incumbency is not an indelible Tomatoes are not indigenous to
asset but a liability. adj Europe.
/ EnSdelEbEl /
incumbent L indigent
that cannot be removed, washed adj
incunabulum away, or erased : permanent. / SindDjEnt /
n Lily’s narrow escape from L
/ TDnkyESnabyElEm / drowning left an indelible mark on being poor usually without being
L her personality. destitute : impoverished, needy.
a book printed before 1501. The basketball star donated money
Alfred was looking at an indemnify to build a community center for the
incunabulum in the British Library indigent residents of his old
when he met his future wife. indemnity neighborhood.
incurvariid independence indigo

adj n
/ TinTkErSva(a)rGDd / indescribable / SindDTgP /
L adj Gk > L > It
of or relating to a member of the / TindDSskrIbEbEl / a blue vat dye that was obtained
Incurvariidae family of minute L originally from plants (as indigo
moths. that cannot be described with plants or woad).
Many brilliantly colored precision. The production of indigo was the
incurvariid moths are found The aromatic herb has a peppery major factor in South Carolina’s
worldwide. odor and an indescribable but early development.
delicious flavor.
indebted indiscretion
adj indicate n
/ DnSdeZDd / / TindDSskreshEn /
L>F>E indicia L
owing gratitude (as for a favor n pl an act at variance with the accepted
received or a kind act done). / DnSdish(G)E / morality of a society.
Carmen was indebted to her piano L Biographers of presidents often
teacher for helping her perfect her indications, signs, tokens, criteria. comb their subjects' lives in search
technique. The reporter used many different of every indiscretion.
indicia of public sentiment to
obtain a reliable rating of the
leader’s popularity.
Page 159 of 349

indissoluble inducement ineludible
adj n adj
/ TindESsBlyEbEl / / DnSd(y)VsmEnt / / TinESlVdEbEl /
L L + Ecf L + Ecf
incapable of being annulled or a motive or consideration that leads inescapable.
undone or broken. one to action. Detective Marchand’s bloodhounds
The friendship of Holmes and Emma’s desire to see Harriet better were considered by many to be
Watson proved indissoluble even by informed was an inducement to ineludible.
Watson’s marriage and Holmes’s read more herself.
supposed death. inenarrable
indulge adj
indoctrinate v / TinGSnarEbEl /
v / DnSdElj / L
/ DnSdBktrDTnCt / L incapable of being narrated :
L give free rein to. indescribable, ineffable.
give instructions especially in It is natural for humans to indulge The sight of his newborn son
fundamentals or rudiments : teach. in the illusions of hope. brought Elijah inenarrable
Special classes were designed to pleasure.
indoctrinate the new employees. indulgent
ineptitude
indolence indurate
adj ineradicable
indolent / Sind(y)ErDt / adj
adj L>E / TinDSradDkEbEl /
/ SindElEnt / physically or morally hardened. L
L The war contributed greatly to incapable of being rooted out or
constantly indulging in ease : Herbert’s seemingly indurate destroyed completely.
chronically averse to labor and manner, but he was always tender In the 1920s Britain had to yield to
exertion. with his pigeons. Ireland’s ineradicable will for
Doctors warn that an indolent independence.
lifestyle can contribute to heart industrious
disease. inertia
ineducable n
indomitable / DSnErshE /
adj ineffable L
/ DnSdBmEZEbEl / adj indisposition to motion, exertion, or
L / inSefEbEl / action.
incapable of being subdued. L The senator railed against the
The pens, the tongues, the fortunes, incapable of being expressed in inertia of the citizenry.
and the indomitable wills of many words.
women were pledged to secure the Sarena’s joy at being chosen for inexorable
right of the elective franchise. the play was ineffable. adj
/ TiSneks(E)rEbEl /
indubitable ineluctable L
adj adj unyielding, inflexible, relentless.
/ (T)inSd(y)VbEZEbEl / / TinDSlEktEbEl / The inexorable force of the
L L hurricane changed the shape of
not open to question or doubt. not to be avoided, changed, or Bell Island.
Shakespeare is considered by many resisted : inevitable.
to be the indubitable master of Mrs. Badger joked that death and inexplicable
English literature. taxes are the only two ineluctable
aspects of life. inextinguishable
inextirpable
inextricable
Page 160 of 349

infallible inflammatory ingenuous
adj adj
/ inSfalEbEl / / DnSflamETtPrG / ingestible
L L adj
incapable of error. tending to excite anger, animosity, / DnSjestEbEl /
Dr. Cameron's colleagues on the disorder, or tumult. L
faculty regard him as virtually Rachel received a two-day capable of being taken in for
infallible. suspension after she delivered an digestion.
inflammatory speech at the An increasing number of
infatuation assembly. Americans are using food, dietary
supplements, and other ingestible
infaust influenza products to cure what ails them.
n
infectious / TinTflVSenzE / inglenook
adj L > It
/ DnSfekshEs / an acute highly contagious ingratiate
L infectious virus disease.
producing the establishment of a Influenza kept Russell out of school ingratiating
pathogen in its host after invasion. for a week. adj
Katie’s sore throat is not infectious, / DnSgrCshGTCZiN /
so she will not have to miss any infractible L
school. intended or adopted in order to win
infrangible favor : flattering.
inferentially adj During his campaign, the
adv / inSfranjEbEl / politician’s manner became
/ TinfESrenchElG / L ingratiating.
L not capable of being broken or
in a manner that involves a separated into parts. inhale
conclusion reached by reasoning or Though it looks like the finest v
implication. china, Jennifer’s teapot is made of / DnShCl /
The report concludes that our an infrangible polymer. Ecf + L > E
social stresses are based almost draw in by breathing.
wholly on misunderstanding, and infructuous Natasha stopped to inhale the
thus, inferentially, can be adj wonderful aroma emanating from
eliminated by good communication. / inSfrEkchEwEs / the bakery.
L
inferior fruitless, unprofitable. inimical
adj Efforts to discourage the bear from
/ DnSfirGE(r) / returning to Cynthia’s backyard inimically
L proved infructuous, and so it was adv
of poor quality : second-rate. tranquilized and taken to a more / DSnimDk(E)lG /
An inferior violinist has no chance suitable area. L
of becoming an orchestra’s in a hostile or unfriendly manner.
concertmaster. infusible The majority of citizens reacted
inimically to the proposed increase
inficete ingenious in city taxes.
infinitesimal ingenue inimitable

adj n adj
/ TinTfinEStes(E)mEl / / SBnjETnV / / iSnimEZEbEl /
L + Ecf L>F L
immeasurably or incalculably small a stage part representing a character not capable of being copied :
: very minute. that is youthful, innocent, matchless.
Infinitesimal yellow flecks on the appealing, sweet, and sympathetic. Charmed by Miss Woodhouse, Mr.
leaf made it appear metallic. Stephanie was one of three students Elton considered all of her
called back in the tryouts for the drawings inimitable.
ingenue in the school’s spring
musical. iniquitous
Page 161 of 349

iniquity innocuity inquisitor
n n n
/ DSnikwEZG / / TiTnBSkyVEZG / / DnSkwizEZE(r) /
L>F>E L L
absence of or deviation from just the quality or state of being a person whose official duty is to
dealing : wrongful conduct : harmless. examine and inquire.
wickedness. Thelma was wary of the seeming When the inquisitor asked a very
The judge referred to the innocuity of her sister’s remarks. personal question, the witness
defendant’s house as a “den of glared at him and remained silent.
iniquity.” innocuous
initial adj insalubrious
/ iSnBkyEwEs / adj
initials L / TinsESlVbrGEs /
not likely to arouse ill will or give L + Ecf
initiative offense : inoffensive. tending to impair health :
Betty was dismayed when Henry unwholesome, noxious.
initiatory interpreted her innocuous remark Andrew has vowed to give up all
adj as an insult. his insalubrious habits.
/ DSnish(G)ETtOrG /
L innovation insatiable
constituting an introduction or n
beginning. / TinESvCshEn / inscribe
On page three of the book is an L
initiatory paragraph that gives the introduction of something new. inscrutable
personal information about the The people of the small village adj
author. were suspicious of all innovation. / inzSkrVZEbEl /
L
injurious innumerable not readily comprehensible :
adj mysterious.
inmate / DSn(y)Vm(E)rEbEl / Kayla’s grin was so inscrutable
L that no one could tell if she were
innermost too many to be numbered or happy or up to something
adj counted. mischievous.
/ SinE(r)TmOst / Katie’s seemingly innumerable
E chicken pox blisters slowly faded insecticide
farthest inward. away. n
Starletta reached the cave’s / DnSsektETsId /
innermost chambers by crawling on inoculate L
her hands and knees and sometimes v an agent that destroys insects.
on her stomach. / DSnBkyETlCt / Malathion is an insecticide with
L>E low toxicity to mammals.
innkeeper introduce microorganisms,
vaccines, or sera into a living body insentient
innocent to establish immunity to a disease.
adj Dr. Cooper had to bribe Frank inseparable
/ SinEsEnt / with a lollipop before he would let
L her inoculate him. insessorial
free of wrongdoing or corruption :
guiltless. inoculator insidious
Julian’s offer to help stems from adj
innocent motives. inquiline / DnSsidGEs /
n L
/ SinkwETlIn / having a gradual, cumulative, and
L usually hidden effect : subtle.
an animal that lives habitually in Loretta’s suspicion led her to pose
the nest or abode of some other a question with the insidious design
species. of further discovery.
The burrowing owl is an inquiline
who lives in prairie dog colonies.
Page 162 of 349

insinuate insouciant insurrection
v adj n
/ DnSsinyETwCt / / DnSsVsGEnt / / Tin(t)sESrekshEn /
L F L>F>E
impart or communicate with artful exhibiting or characterized by an act or instance of revolting
indirect wording or oblique freedom from concern or care. against civil or political authority
reference : hint, imply. The pompous, insouciant aristocrat or against an established
Did April insinuate that she won’t never had to work a day in his life. government.
be inviting Dante to the party? The dictator quickly suppressed the
insipid inspirometer peasants' insurrection.
adj n
/ DnSsipDd / / TinzpDSrBmEZE(r) / insusceptibility
L L > F > E + Gk > L > F > E n
dull, uninteresting, commonplace. an apparatus for measuring air / TinsETseptESbilEZG /
Jed could hardly bear listening to inhaled in breathing. L
the sportscaster’s insipid The nurse used an inspirometer on the quality or state of being
comments. Mr.Davis during his checkup. incapable of being moved, affected,
or impressed.
insititious instantaneous Sylvia prides herself on her
adj adj insusceptibility to flattery.
/ Tin(t)sEStishEs / / TinzstEnStCnGEs /
L L intaglio
constituting an insertion. done or occurring without any n
Research that Jennifer failed to perceptible duration of time. / DnStal(T)yP /
include in her bound report was Harold’s slow, nervous marriage It
included as insititious pages. proposal was balanced by Emily’s an engraving or incised figure in
instantaneous reply. stone or other hard material.
insolence Judd was pleased with the intaglio
n instauration on his signet ring.
/ Sin(t)s(E)lEn(t)s / n
L / TinzTtOSrCshEn / intangible
[has homonyms and near L
homonym: insolents, insulants and restoration after decay, lapse, or integument
insulins] the quality or state of dilapidation. n
being haughty and contemptuous or The instauration of the Statue of / DnStegyEmEnt /
brutal in behavior or language. Liberty was a long and complicated L
In Greek mythology Athena project. an enveloping layer, membrane, or
transformed Arachne into a spider structure (as the skin of a fish or the
for her insolence. insulin exoskeleton of an insect).
n The dried cicada integument
insolent / Sin(t)sElDn / attached to the brick wall
L + Ecf fascinated the children.
insomnia a protein pancreatic hormone that is
n essential especially for the intensity
/ DnSsBmnGE / metabolism of carbohydrates and n
L which is used in the treatment and / DnSten(t)sEZG /
prolonged inability to obtain control of diabetes mellitus. L + Ecf
adequate sleep : sleeplessness. Marty gives himself an injection of extreme or very high degree :
Cora’s doctor suggests that her insulin every morning to control his extreme strength, force, or energy.
insomnia may be caused by the diabetes. Gino was astonished at the little
emotional stress of her new job. flashlight’s intensity.
insomniac
insouciance
Page 163 of 349

intercalate intermezzo interplanetary
v n adj
/ DnStErkETlCt / / TintE(r)Smet(T)sP / / TintE(r)SplanETterG /
L L > It L + Gk + Lcf > E
insert between or among existing a movement coming between the existing, carried on, or operating
elements. major sections of a symphony or between planets.
It was the editor’s job to intercalate other extended work. Interplanetary travel may someday
the new manuscript pages into the The singers were able to take a be a reality, but for now it must
narrative. break while the orchestra played remain the stuff of science fiction.
the intermezzo.
intercede interpolate
interminable
intercept adj interpret
v / DnStErmDnEbEl / v
/ TintE(r)Ssept / L / DnStErprDt /
L having no end : wearisomely L>F>E
stop or interrupt the progress or protracted. explain or tell the meaning of :
course of. Dad complained about the translate into intelligible or familiar
Rick will intercept the office mail, interminable lines at the theme language or terms.
as requested by Dr. Taylor. park. Shareen asked the psychiatrist to
interpret her dream.
intercessory intermittence
adj n interregnum
/ TintE(r)Sses(E)rG / / TintE(r)SmitFn(t)s / n
L L / TintE(r)SregnEm /
relating to or marked by the act of periodic cessation or interruption. L
pleading in behalf of another. The intermittence of the moving the time during which a throne is
The congregation joined in windshield wipers supposedly vacant between the death,
intercessory prayers for the sick allows better visibility during a abdication, or expulsion of a
parishioners. light rain. sovereign and the coronation of his
or her successor.
interfered intermittent The prime minister urged citizens
adj to band together during the
interior / TintE(r)SmitFnt / interregnum.
L
interlocutor coming and going at intervals : not interrogatory
n continuous. n
/ TintE(r)SlBkyEZE(r) / The weather forecast warned of / TintESrBgETtPrG /
L intermittent showers for the L
one who takes part in a dialogue or afternoon. a formal question or inquiry.
conversation. The principal instructed Betty to
The seminar leader instructed internal prepare within two days a written
everyone to choose an interlocutor response to the interrogatory
and discuss the video one-on-one. international regarding her honor offense.
interlucent internecine interrupt

adj v
interment / TintErSneTsGn / / TintESrEpt /
n L L
/ DnStErmEnt / marked by great slaughter : deadly. prevent (one) from proceeding by
L>F>E Many areas of the former Soviet intrusive or interpolated comment
the act or ceremony of placing a Union have been plagued with or action.
dead body in a grave or tomb. internecine struggles. “Must you always interrupt like
Uncle Oliver’s desire was that only that?” asked Mr. Kelley.
family members be present at his interpellation
interment. intersperse
Page 164 of 349

interstice intricate inveigh
n adj v
/ DnStErstDs / / SintrDkDt / / DnSvC /
L L>E L
a space that intervenes between one having many complexly protest bitterly or violently.
thing and another : a space between interrelating parts or elements : When the suspect was arraigned,
things closely set. complicated. he began to inveigh against what
The tightly-woven cloth looked Jason described the intricate he claimed was police brutality.
solid, but a sharp needle easily mechanism of the clock as
found an interstice to slip through. “awesome.” inveigle
intrigue
intertriginous v inveterate
/ DnStrGg / adj
interviewee L > It > F / DnSveZErDt /
n arouse the interest, desire, or L
/ TintE(r)TvyVSG / curiosity of. continuous, recurrent, chronic.
F The designer wanted the picture on The inveterate lateness of Linda’s
one that is questioned or conversed the dust jacket to intrigue potential mail delivery caused her concern.
with especially in order to obtain readers.
information or ascertain personal invidious
qualities. intrinsic adj
The receptionist administered a / DnSvidGEs /
spelling test to each interviewee. introduction L
of an unpleasant or objectionable
intestacy introit nature : hateful.
It is not uncommon for Sean to
intolerable intuitable respond with invidious remarks
adj adj that may or may not be true.
/ inStBl(E)rEbEl / / DnSt(y)VDZEbEl /
L L invincible
not capable of being endured : knowable by insight or without
unbearable. rational thought. inviolable
The intolerable cold made Janice’s Ashley believes that the concepts of adj
eyes water. good and evil are intuitable. / inSvIElEbEl /
L
intractable inumbrate secure from assault or trespass.
adj v An electrified security fence, ten
/ inStraktEbEl / / SinEmTbrCt / feet high, did not make the film
L L star’s estate inviolable.
not easily governed, managed, or put in shadow : shade.
directed. Carl watched the cloud temporarily invitation
The intractable child was amusing inumbrate the soccer field.
for a while. ionosphere
inundate n
intrait / ISBnEsfi(E)r /
inundation Gk
intramural n the part of Earth's atmosphere
/ Ti(T)nEnSdCshEn / containing free electrically charged
intrepid L particles.
adj a rising and spreading of water over Ham radio operators transmit their
/ inStrepDd / land not usually submerged : a signals great distances by bouncing
L flood. them off the ionosphere.
characterized by resolute As the river swelled with snowmelt,
fearlessness in meeting dangers or the levees protected the fields from
hardships and enduring them with inundation.
fortitude.
Bob’s military honors attest to his inurement
intrepid character.
invective
Page 165 of 349

iota iridescent irrelevant
n adj adj
/ ISPZE / / SirETdesFnt / / TiSrelEvEnt /
Gk L L
an infinitesimal amount : a very showing colors like those of the not applicable or pertinent :
small degree. rainbow especially in shifting foreign, extraneous.
The analgesic worked so well that patterns of hues and shades that Patrick introduced irrelevant
Jeremy felt not even an iota of pain. vary with a change of light or point arguments to cloud the central
of view. issue.
ipsedixitism Louis C. Tiffany developed a
n famous type of iridescent glass. irreparable
/ TipsGSdiksDZTizEm /
L irradiate irrepressible
dogmatic assertion or assertiveness. v adj
Martine’s ipsedixitism tired her / DSrCdGTCt / / irDSpresEbEl /
friends and put off strangers. L L
throw rays of light upon : shine impossible to repress, restrain, or
ipseity upon. control.
Cynthia’s beauty seemed to Sondra’s irrepressible urge to drive
irascibility irradiate the room with a mystical fast earned her a speeding ticket.
n glow.
/ DTrasESbilEZG / irresistible
L irreconcilable
the quality or state of being marked adj irretrievably
by a hot temper and resentful / TiTrekEnSsIlEbEl / adv
anger. L / TirDStrGvEblG /
The artist’s stubborn irascibility not capable of being brought into L>F>E
led to many family squabbles. friendly accord or understanding. so as to be impossible to recoup,
Bill finally realized that his repair, or overcome.
irascible differences with Sheila were Environmentalists bemoan the
adj irreconcilable. irretrievably lost sections of the
/ DSrasEbEl / rain forest.
L irrecusable
marked by hot temper and resentful adj irrevocability
anger. / TirGSkyVzEbEl / n
After breaking his leg, Lennie L / iTrevEkESbilEZG /
became so irascible that his friends not subject to exception or L > F > E + E cff
stopped visiting him. rejection. the quality or state of being
The company’s most recent offer to unalterable.
irate the strikers was presented as The chairman insisted upon the
adj irrecusable. irrevocability of the rules of order.
/ TISrCt /
L irredeemable irrevocable
feeling and showing a high degree
of anger. irrefragable irrevocably
When Calvin returned home late, adj adv
his father was irate. / i(r)SrefrEgEbEl / / (T)iSrevEkEblG /
L L
irenicism impossible to gainsay, deny, or beyond any possibility of change.
n refute. The coach announced that the
/ ISrenETsizEm / The prosecutor maintained that the intramural team rosters had been
Gk + Ecf evidence against the defendant was irrevocably determined.
a social temper or condition or a irrefragable.
state of public opinion making for irrigation
peace. irregular
Ella detected a growing irenicism
among her constituents, though
many still advocated cold war.
Page 166 of 349

irritability isogram Isthmian
n n adj
/ TirEZESbilEZG / / SI(T)sETgram / / SismGEn /
L Gk + Gk Gk
quick excitability to annoyance, a line on a map or chart along of or relating to the Isthmus of
impatience, or anger. which there is a constant value (as Corinth or the games anciently held
On the second day of Josh’s diet, of temperature, pressure, or there.
his irritability was apparent to rainfall). Pindar’s victory odes celebrate the
everyone around him. The meteorologist drew an isogram victors in Olympic, Nemean,
on the map to show places having Pythian, and Isthmian games.
irritate the same barometric pressure.
isthmus
isagoge isohyetal n
n adj / SismEs /
/ SIsETgPjG / / TI(T)sPShIEZFl / Gk > L
Gk Gk > ISV a narrow strip of land running
a scholarly introduction to a branch relating to or indicating equal through a body of water and
of study or research. rainfall. connecting two larger land areas.
The eminent economist wrote an The weather forecaster’s map The country of Panama is an
isagoge for the new economics text. shows isohyetal areas of the Great isthmus connecting North and
Plains. South America.
isinglass
n isolability italicization
/ SIzFnTglas / n
D / TIsElESbilEZG / itemize
mica especially when in thin L>F>E
transparent sheets. the capability of being placed alone iterance
Isinglass is economically important or apart. n
because its low iron content makes According to the philosophical / SiZErEn(t)s /
it a good electrical and thermal principle of isolability, every L>E
insulator. isolated event must have an [Note: Could be confused with
isolated cause. iterancy.] repetition,
Islamic repetitiousness, recurrence.
adj isomorphic Carol noticed an iterance of the
/ iSslBmik / adj name Elizabeth in her genealogical
Ar / TIsPSmOrfik / chart.
of, relating to, or characterized by Gk
the religious faith of Muslims. being of identical or similar form or iterative
The central tenets of Islamic shape or structure. adj
doctrine are that there is no god English spelling is difficult because / SiZErEtiv /
but Allah, and Mohammed is his of the frequent lack of isomorphic L
prophet. correspondence between the marked by or involving repetition
spoken word and the written word. or recurrence.
isle The name Elizabeth formed an
n isosceles iterative pattern in Maggie’s
/ SIl / adj genealogical chart.
L>F>E / ISsBsETlGz /
[has homonyms: aisle, I’ll] a small Gk > L itinerant
piece of land surrounded by water having two equal sides—used of a adj
on all sides. triangle. / IStin(E)rEnt /
Kent dreamed of vacationing on a Zola counted 16 isosceles triangles L
tropical isle. on the playground equipment. traveling about from place to place.
The large farm employed many
isocryme isotope itinerant workers during the
harvest season.
issuable
Page 167 of 349

itinerary jackal jaguar
n n n
/ IStinETrerG / / SjakEl / / SjagTwBr /
L Skt > Per > Turkish Tupi&Guarani > Pg&Sp
a sketch of the prospective course any of several small wild dogs of a large cat chiefly of Central and
of a journey or trip. Africa and Asia having large ears South America that is larger and
The senator’s itinerary called for and a bushy tail and feeding on stockier than the leopard and is
ten stops in two days. small animals, fruits, and carrion. brownish yellow or buff with black
The zoologist explained that the spots.
ivory popular image of a jackal as a Although the jaguar is a good
adj cowardly scavenger is not justified climber, it usually stalks its prey on
/ SIv(E)rG / by the facts. the ground.
Hamitic > L > F > E
of a creamy white color. jackanapes jaleo
The ivory sweater that Karen n
purchased qualifies as “winter / SjakETnCps / jalousie
white.” E nickname n
izzat an impertinent or conceited fellow. / SjalEsG /
Billy was thrown out of English F
jabberwocky class for being an insolent [has near homonym: jealousy] a
n jackanapes. blind or shutter having horizontal
/ SjabE(r)TwBkG / slats that are adjustable or fixed at
E nonsense name jackknife an angle to admit light and air and
meaningless speech, writing, or to permit looking out without being
patter : gibberish. jaconet seen from the outside.
Dina listened as the two babies Helen hung a jalousie in each
carried on a lengthy conversation jacquard downstairs window of her new
in jabberwocky. n house.
/ jaSkBrd /
jabot F name jambalaya
n a fabric of an intricate variegated n
/ zhaSbP / weave. / TjEmbESlIE /
F In the antique store’s front window Prov > F
a ruffle or pleated frill of cloth, was a fabulous jacquard that rice cooked with ham, sausage,
lace, or both attached down the portrayed the Last Supper. chicken, shrimp, or oysters and
center front of a shirt, blouse, or usually tomato and seasoned with
dress bodice. jadeite herbs.
Tom insisted that the shirt of his n No trip to New Orleans would be
Captain Hook costume have a / SjCTdIt / complete without sampling a bowl
jabot. Sp > F of spicy jambalaya.
a monoclinic mineral found chiefly
jacal in Myanmar that when cut jambeau
constitutes a valuable variety of n
jacamar jade. / TjamSbP /
n Alexis bought a necklace made of F>E
/ SjakETmBr / jadeite and black onyx at the craft [has homonym: jambo] a piece of
Tupi > F bazaar. medieval plate armor for the lower
any of many brightly colored birds leg.
inhabiting tropical forests from The knight staggered under a blow
Mexico to Argentina. that left a groove across his
Tio recognized the cry of the jambeau.
jacamar but couldn’t see the bird
through the thick foliage.
Page 168 of 349

jamboree jargon javelin
n n n
/ TjambESrG / / SjBrgEn / / Sjav(E)lDn /
unknown imit > F > E Celt > F
a long mixed program of the technical terminology or a slender shaft of wood not less
entertainment. characteristic idiom of specialists than 260 centimeters long, tipped
The finale at the jamboree was a or workers in a particular activity with iron or steel, and intended to
brilliant display of fireworks. or area of knowledge. be thrown for distance as an
Anna was sure the computer athletic feat or exercise.
jangle programmers were speaking Lucas threw the javelin only 20 feet
English, but their jargon made it on his first attempt.
janiform impossible for her to understand
adj what they were saying. javellization
/ SjanETfOrm /
L+L jarl jealousy
having a face on each of two sides. n
While in Rome, Stacey bought a jasper / SjelEsG /
replica of an ancient coin depicting F
a janiform figure. jaundice [has near homonym: jalousie] a
n disposition or state of mind that is
janitor / SjOndDs / intolerant of rivalry or
n L>F>E unfaithfulness.
/ SjanEZE(r) / yellowish pigmentation of the skin, Tormented by jealousy,
L tissues, and body fluids caused by Shakespeare’s Othello is driven to
one that keeps the premises of an the deposition of bile pigments. murder his wife.
apartment, office, or other building David’s jaundice was brought on
clean and free of refuse, tends the by a liver problem. jecorize
heating system, and makes minor
repairs. jaundiced jeer
Morris took a part-time job as a adj v
janitor at an apartment complex in / SjOndDst / / Sji(E)r /
exchange for free rent. L > F > E + Ecf unknown
exhibiting or affected by distaste, speak or cry out with derision or
japery or hostility. mockery.
n Dr. Willis was jaundiced and No one dared jeer when the
/ SjCp(E)rG / querulous after being bedridden for venerable actor forgot his lines.
E so long.
jesting talk : jokes. jejune
Tired of the disk jockey’s japery, jauntily adj
Terry turned the radio off. adv / jDSjVn /
/ SjOntFlG / L
jarabe F > E + Ecff immature, juvenile.
n in a light or carefree manner. Dennis rejected the jejune poems
/ hESrB(T)bC / Steve’s hat was perched jauntily on for publication.
Ar > Sp the side of his head.
any of several provincial Mexican jellyfish
couple dances that have the jaunty
zapateado as their basic step. adj jeopardize
The jarabe is sometimes performed / SjOntG / v
at Mexican weddings. L>F / SjepE(r)TdIz /
nonchalant or sprightly in manner L > F > E + Ecf
jardiniere or appearance. expose to danger : imperil.
The music teacher is far more Mr. Turner refuses to jeopardize
jaunty at the keys of a piano than in his family by driving at high speed.
the classroom.
jeopardy
Page 169 of 349

jerboa jillion jonquil
n n
/ jDrSbPE / jinete / SjBnkwDl /
Ar L > Sp > F
any of several social nocturnal Old jingoism a perennial bulbous herb native to
World jumping rodents with long southern Europe and northern
hind legs and a long tail. jittery Africa that has long slender leaves
The well-developed jumping ability and is widely cultivated for its
of the jerboa enables it to escape jocose flowers.
from many predators. A single jonquil in a bud vase
jocosity adorned each table in the
jeremiad n restaurant.
n / jPSkBsEZG /
/ TjerESmIEd / L jostlement
Heb name > Gk > L > F the quality or state of being given
a protracted speech marked by deep to jokes and jesting. joule
misery. Lennie’s jocosity endeared him to n
The old philosopher gave a moving no one. / SjVl /
jeremiad against a culture that E name
values knowledge above wisdom. jocular [has near homonym: jewel] the
adj absolute meter-kilogram-second
jerkin / SjBkyElE(r) / unit of work or energy equal to 10
n L million ergs or approximately
/ SjErkDn / given or disposed to jesting. 0.7375 foot-pound or 0.2390 gram
unknown The jocular keynote speaker calorie.
a close-fitting hip-length jacket. peppered his remarks with In electrical terms, a joule
As his quest led him northward, the humorous anecdotes. represents the energy released in 1
knight began wearing a jerkin for second by a current of 1 ampere
additional warmth. jocund through a resistance of 1 ohm.
adj
jeroboam / SjBkEnd / journal
L
jettison feeling or exhibiting mirth or good journalism
v cheer : cheerful. n
/ SjeZEsEn / The jocund host made everyone feel / SjErnFlTizEm /
L>F>E completely at ease. F
drop (as auxiliary equipment, an academic study concerned with
bombs, cargo, or fuel) from an jodhpur the collection and editing of news
airplane in flight (as for lightening n or the editorial or business
the load or providing greater / SjBdpE(r) / management of a news medium.
safety). Indian geog name Students of journalism at
The airplane’s malfunctioning a short riding boot; especially : an Northwestern University often list
engine prompted the crew to ankle-length boot fastened with a the class taught by Oprah Winfrey
jettison all unnecessary cargo. strap that is buckled at the side. as one of their favorites.
Among young or short equestrians,
jettisoned the jodhpur is a popular choice of journey
boot.
jibboom jovial
joist adj
jicama / SjPvGEl /
n jongleur L>F
/ ShGkEmE / n characterized by or showing
Nahuatl > Sp / zhPMSglEr / marked good humor especially as
a tall-climbing Mexican vine with F exhibited in mirth, hilarity, or
showy flowers and a sweet watery an itinerant medieval minstrel conviviality.
root that is sometimes eaten raw or reciting and singing for hire. The jovial chef made cooking look
cooked. Timothy went to the Renaissance easy and enjoyable.
Suleika made a coleslaw of jicama Fair dressed as a jongleur, with a
and shredded carrot. handmade lute and a velvet cap. joviality
Page 170 of 349

jubilant juiciness junta
adj n
/ SjVbElEnt / juicy / ShUntE /
L L > Sp
manifesting or expressing julienne [has somewhat near homonyms:
exultation or gladness. adj hunter, junto] a closely knit group
Fans were jubilant when the batter / SjVlGTen / of persons composing or
hit the winning home run in the F (name?) dominating a government
bottom of the ninth inning. [has homonym: Julian] cut in long especially after a revolutionary
thin strips—used especially of seizure of power.
jubilarian vegetables and fruits. The military junta set up its
Bruce added julienne cucumber to headquarters in the former
jubilation the salad. presidential palace.
judicial jumart jurimetrician

n
judiciary jumelle / TjUrDmEStrishEn /
L + Gk > E
judicious junction a specialist in the application of
adj scientific methods to legal
/ jVSdishEs / juncture problems.
L n The judge heard testimony from a
directed or governed by sound / SjEN(k)chE(r) / jurimetrician and a forensic
usually dispassionate judgment : L pathologist.
characterized by discretion. joint, seam.
Jane’s mom saw to it that her Lulu found a note wedged in the jurisdiction
summer activities were a judicious juncture between the two seats. n
mixture of chores and amusement. / TjUrDsSdikshEn /
jungle L
juggernaut the limits or territory within which
n juniper any particular power may be
/ SjEgE(r)TnOt / n exercised.
Skt > Hindi / SjVnEpE(r) / Sgt. Voss couldn’t issue the
a massive force or object that L>E reckless driver a ticket because the
advances irresistibly and crushes an evergreen shrub or tree highway was outside his
whatever is in its path. characterized by low, lateral jurisdiction.
Sherman’s armies moved like a spreading.
juggernaut through the South. Grandma gathers berries from her jurisprudence
juniper to use in cooking. n
juggler / TjUrDSsprVdFn(t)s /
n junket L
/ SjEg(E)lE(r) / n [has homonym: jurisprudents] the
L>F>E / SjENkDt / science or philosophy of law.
[has near homonym: jugular] one L > It > E Tom is a professor of jurisprudence
skilled in keeping several objects in a pleasure trip or tour made by an at Yale Law School.
motion in the air at the same time official at public expense ostensibly
by alternately tossing and catching for purposes of inspection, jussive
them. investigation, or other public adj
The crowd was most impressed business. / SjEsiv /
when the juggler started juggling Many citizens complained that the L + Ecf
flaming torches. mayor’s business trip to Japan was expressing or having the effect of a
merely a junket. command.
jugular There was a jussive tone to Mr.
adj Contreras’s request, and the boys
/ SjEgyElE(r) / obeyed him immediately.
L
of or relating to the throat or neck. justice
It is easy to find one’s own pulse in
the jugular region.
Page 171 of 349

justiciable juxtaposition kakistocracy
adj n n
/ TjESstish(G)EbEl / / TjEkstEpESzishEn / / TkakDSstBkrEsG /
L>F L Gk
capable of being decided by legal the act or an instance of placing government by the worst
principles or by a court of justice : two or more objects in a close individuals.
liable to trial in a court of justice. spatial or ideal relationship. Denny thought the current student
The judge decided that Al’s dispute The justaposition of the different council was a kakistocracy.
with his employer was justiciable styles within the same painting won
under the new law. the praise of the art critic. kaleidoscope
n
justifiable Kabuki / kESlIdETskPp /
n Gk + E
juvenescence / kESbVkG / an instrument that contains loose
n Jpn fragments of colored glass confined
/ TjVvESnesFn(t)s / traditional Japanese popular drama between two flat plates and two
L with singing and dancing plane mirrors placed so that
the state of being youthful or of performed in a stylized manner. changes of position exhibit its
growing young. Performers of Kabuki must learn to contents in an endless variety of
The director helped the aging move with great control. forms.
actress produce the illusion of Raj received a fancy brass
juvenescence through careful kairos kaleidoscope for a birthday
makeup and lighting. n present.
/ SkITrBs /
juvenile Gk kamikaze
n a time when conditions are right for
/ SjVvETnIl / the accomplishment of a crucial kangaroo
F or L action.
of or relating to childhood. Feeling that the kairos would never kanone
Many breakfast-cereal be better, Barbara approached her
advertisements are geared to a boss and demanded a raise. karate
juvenile audience.
kaiser karst
juvenilia
n pl kaiserdom karting
/ TjVvESnilGE / n
L / SkIzE(r)dEm / katabatic
artistic or literary compositions G adj
produced in the author’s youth and the territory ruled by the German / TkaZESbaZik /
typically marked by immaturity of emperors from 1871 to 1918. Gk
style, treatment, or thought. Otto was the best clockmaker in the of or relating to the downward
The artist’s juvenilia showed that kaiserdom. motion of air (as in air drainage
he had been developing the same induced by surface cooling).
themes throughout his career. kakemono The ventilation system relied on
n katabatic action for optimal
juxtapose / TkBkESmP(T)nP / efficiency.
v Jpn
/ SjEkstETpPz / a picture or writing on silk or paper katana
L that usually has a roller at its lower n
place side by side. edge. / kEStBnE /
Picasso often used collage to Yasuki hung a kakemono in the Jpn
juxtapose coarse and refined living room. a single-edged sword that is the
elements in his art. longer of a pair worn by the
Japanese samurai.
Hiroko proudly showed the guests
her great-grandfather’s katana
hanging on the wall.
Page 172 of 349

katharometer kepi kerflop
n n
/ TkathESrBmEZE(r) / / SkCpG / kernel
Gk L>G>F
an apparatus for determining the a military cap having a close-fitting kerplunk
composition of a gas mixture. band, a round flat top sloping adv
With the help of a katharometer, toward the front, and a visor. / kE(r)SplENk /
the chemist was able to analyze the In the foyer of the French embassy imit
engine’s exhaust. there is a statue of a general with a with a thud.
kepi atop his head. Mimi dropped the apple kerplunk
katzenjammer onto Mrs. Vega’s desk.
keratitis
kaumographer n kerseymere
n / TkerEStIZDs /
/ kOSmBgrEfE(r) / Gk kestrel
Gk inflammation of the cornea of the n
a worker who transfers designs, eye. / SkestrEl /
trademarks, or other printed After being struck in the eye, the L>F>E
material to cloth articles with a hot boxer had to be treated for a common small European falcon.
iron. keratitis. Sean found an injured kestrel on
The sweatshirt store employs a the roof of the library.
kaumographer to decorate shirts keratoderma
with designs chosen by the n ketch
customer. / TkerEZPSdErmE /
Gk khaki
keepsake a hard, callous condition of the
skin. kibitz
keeshond The patient’s keratoderma caused
him pain and loss of movement. kibitzer
kempt n
keratoplasty / SkibDtsE(r) /
kennel n Yiddish
n / SkerEZPTplastG / an outsider or nonparticipant who
/ SkenFl / Gk looks on and may offer unwanted
L>F>E plastic surgery on the cornea. advice or comment.
[has near homonym: quenelle] a Keratoplasty, especially corneal Officer Morrow ordered the
house for a dog or pack of hounds. grafting, has improved the vision of kibitzer to stand back and get out of
Jack plans to help his father build a many people. the way of the rescue squad.
kennel for their beagles.
kerchief kidnap
keno n
n / SkErchDf / kielbasa
/ SkG(T)nP / F>E n
F a square of cloth usually folded / kilSbBsE /
[has homonym: kino] a game worn by women as a head Pol
resembling lotto or bingo in which covering. [Note: A differently pronounced
numbers printed on pellets are Before Eileen went out to tend to variant of the word is kielbasy.] a
taken from a sack and announced to her garden, she put on a blue and smoked sausage.
the players who cover the numbers white kerchief. Adria ordered a half-pound of
on cards and in which five numbers potato salad and a kielbasa from
covered in the same horizontal row kerf the deli.
win for the player. n
The casino coffee shop had runners / SkErf / kilim
to sell the diners cards for keno. E
a slit or notch made in cutting kiln
usually by a saw or cutting torch.
Roger’s toy racetrack is made from
a piece of wood with a wide kerf
along which the little cars move.
Page 173 of 349

kiloton kinetic kitsch
n adj n
/ SkilETtEn / / kDSneZik / / Skich /
Gk + E Gk G
an explosive force equivalent to relating to the motion of matter and artistic or literary material held to
that of 1,000 tons of TNT—used the forces and energy associated be of low quality, often produced to
especially in reference to an atom therewith. appeal to popular taste, and marked
or hydrogen bomb. The kinetic theory of gases treats especially by sentimentalism,
Given the strength of nuclear each molecule in a gas as a point, sensationalism, and slickness.
bombs, 1 kiloton is a small amount which has mass but negligible Souvenir shops are filled with
of explosive force. volume. kitsch for the undiscriminating
tourists.
kilowatt kinetosis
n kiwi
kimono / TkinEStPsDs /
Gk > L klendusity
kindergarten sickness induced by motion and n
adj characterized by nausea. / klenSd(y)VsEZG /
/ SkindE(r)TgBrtFn / Before boarding the ship, Claire Gk
G made sure she had brought along the tendency of a plant or variety to
of or relating to an elementary level medication for kinetosis. escape infection as a result of
or initial phase. having some property that prevents
After her request to skip from the kingdom or hinders inoculation : disease-
sixth to the eighth grade was escaping ability.
denied, Kathleen was openly kinkajou The plant’s thick cuticle is largely
scornful of the kindergarten math n responsible for its klendusity.
problems the teacher kept / SkiNkETjV /
assigning. Algonquian > F klinotaxis
a slender long-tailed mammal of n
kindling Central and South America related / TklInEStaksDs /
to the raccoon. Gk
kindness The kinkajou is sometimes called directional orientation involving
the honey bear. turning toward a stimulus.
kinesiology The klinotaxis of honeybees is
n kishke dependent on the angle of the sun.
/ kDTnGsGSBlEjG / n
Gk / SkishkE / klomp
the study of the principles of Slav > Yiddish n
mechanics and anatomy in relation beef or fowl casing stuffed with a / SklBmp /
to human movement. savory filling (as of matzoth flour, D
All physical therapy students are chicken fat, and onion) and roasted. [has homonym: clomp] a wooden
required to take a course in Steve ate four helpings of his shoe worn in the Low countries.
kinesiology. grandmother’s kishke. The Dutch villager proudly showed
Pam a klomp that he had just
kinesitherapy kitchen finished carving.
n n
/ kDTnGsGStherEpG / / SkichDn / knapsack
Gk E n
the therapeutic and corrective a room or some other space (as a / SnapTsak /
application of active and passive wall area or separate building) with G&D
movements (as by massage) and of facilities for cooking : a place for a bag or case often of canvas
exercise. preparing meals. supported on the back by a strap
The stroke victim’s muscular Joey spent several hours in the over each shoulder and used
problems were almost totally kitchen on Thanksgiving Day. especially for carrying supplies
corrected through intensive while on a march or hike.
kinesitherapy. The next morning, Boris found a
young snapping turtle in his
knapsack.
Page 174 of 349

knave knoll kriegspiel
n n
knavery / SnPl / / SkrGgzTpG(E)l /
E G
knead a usually small rounded land chess in which neither player sees
eminence. the other’s board but is given some
kneadable Drucilla lay at the top of the knoll information as to the opponent’s
adj to catch some rays. moves by a referee who keeps track
/ SnGdEbEl / of all moves on a third board.
E + Ecf knout Orvil attributes his ability to
having the proper texture for mentally picture a chessboard in
mixing into a well-blended whole knowledge play to his fondness for kriegspiel.
by or as if by repeatedly drawing n
out and pressing together. / SnBlij / Krugerrand
Flour was mixed with other E n
ingredients to produce a kneadable the fact or condition of knowing. / SkrVgETrand /
dough. Jack’s knowledge of carpentry S Afr name + S Afr geog name
immediately earned him a job when a one-ounce gold coin of the
knickers he arrived in Miami. Republic of South Africa.
n pl Martin purchased a Krugerrand at
/ SnikE(r)z / knuckle the New York Coin Show last year.
American name
[has homonym: nickers] loose- knucks krypton
fitting knee-length pants gathered n
at the knee on a band for sports and knurl / SkripTtBn /
informal wear. Gk
The man was dressed in a shaggy kohlrabi a colorless relatively inert gaseous
tweed jacket and knickers with long n element found in air at about one
woolen stockings. / kPlSrBbG / part per million and used especially
G in electric lamps.
knickknacky a variety of cabbage having a A light bulb filled with krypton will
turnip-shaped edible stem. last longer and shine more brightly
knight The flesh of the kohlrabi resembles than a regular bulb of the same
that of the turnip but is sweeter and wattage.
knightling milder.
kuchen
knish kookaburra n
n n / SkVkEn /
/ kESnish / / SkUkETbErE / G
Russ > Yiddish Australian name any of several varieties of coffee
a round or square of rich baking- a kingfisher of Australia that is cake typically made from sweet
powder dough folded over a savory about the size of a crow, has a call yeast dough and variously shaped,
meat or cheese filling and baked or resembling loud laughter, and feeds flavored, and frosted.
fried. in part on reptiles. Aunt Mitzi served a warm apple
Sol searched his new neighborhood While vacationing in Melbourne, kuchen for Christmas brunch.
in vain for a restaurant that served Lindsay was at first startled by the
a decent knish. peculiar chortling of a kookaburra. kudize
v
knishes kremlin / Sk(y)VTdIz /
n Gk
knock / SkremlDn / grant honors to : praise.
Russ The planning committee had a
knockabout the citadel or fortress of a Russian luncheon to kudize Mr. Blalock,
city or town. who donated 100 acres of land for
Bruce hiked to the ancient kremlin the city park.
for the best view of the city.
Page 175 of 349

kudos labyrinthine lacrosse
n pl n
/ Sk(y)VTdPz / laccate / lESkrOs /
Gk adj F
praises given for achievement. / SlaTkCt / a game that is played on a turfed
Daphne received many kudos from L + Ecf field by two teams of ten players,
the drama coach after her having a varnished or lacquered each of whom uses a long-handled
performance in the school play. appearance. stick with which the ball is caught,
The leaves of some tropical carried, and thrown, with the object
kudzu evergreens have a laccate surface. being to throw the ball into the
n opponents’ goal.
/ SkUd(T)zV / lacerate Curious about lacrosse, Pamela
Jpn signed up for a college intramural
a vine of China and Japan that is laceration team.
used widely in the southern United n
States for erosion control and soil / TlasESrCshEn / lacteal
improvement. L>F adj
Along many highways of the deep a wound made by tearing or / SlaktGEl /
South, kudzu covers the roadside rending roughly. L + Ecf
like drapery. Forty stitches were required to relating to, consisting of,
close the laceration in Jeremy’s producing, or resembling milk.
kwashiorkor scalp. Liz was surprised to learn that her
n lacteal drink was made from
/ TkwBshGSOrkEr / lachrymose soybeans.
Ghana name adj
severe malnutrition in infants and / SlakrETmPs / lacuna
children caused by a high- L n
carbohydrate, low-protein diet. dismal, melancholy. / lESk(y)VnE /
Supplying protein supplements to The lachrymose play ruined L
affected children is one way in Samantha’s weekend. a blank space : a missing part : gap,
which UNICEF works to eradicate hole.
kwashiorkor. lackadaisical Gabe discovered a mysterious
adj lacuna in the manuscript.
labefaction / TlakESdCzDkEl /
E + Ecf ladle
laboratory lacking life, spirit, or zest : devoid
of energy or purpose. lageniform
laborious John’s piano teacher criticized him adj
adj for his lackadaisical performance / lESjGnETfOrm /
/ lESbPrGEs / in the recital. L + Ecf
L shaped like a flask : dilated below
involving much work : tiresome. laconic and tapering to a slender neck
Restoration of the mansion will adj above.
require laborious effort. / lESkBnik / While on the field trip, the botanist
Gk > L directed the class to an example of
labyrinth spoken, written, or expressed a lageniform fungus.
n briefly or tersely : pithy.
/ SlabETrin(t)th / Mrs. Fitzpatrick’s laconic speaking laggard
Carian? > Gk > L > E style was quite popular with her adj
a structure full of intricate students. / SlagE(r)d /
passageways that make it difficult Scand + Ecf
to find the way from the interior to slow or relatively slow to act,
the entrance or from the entrance to move, follow, or respond.
the interior. Successful mail order companies
Lost in the labyrinth of passages are rarely laggard in handling
beneath the castle, the invaders complaints.
gave up the attack plan and instead
concentrated on finding a way out. laggardly
Page 176 of 349

lagniappe lambrequin lampyrid
n n
lagomorph / SlambE(r)kDn / / SlampErDd /
n D>F Gk > L
/ SlagETmOrf / a short decorative drapery for a a beetle or firefly of medium or
Gk > L shelf edge or for the top of a small size having an elongate form.
[Note: Could be confused with window casing : valance. The lightning bug is a common
Lagomorpha.] any of several An embroidered lambrequin hung lampyrid.
gnawing animals (as hare, rabbit, or over each of the mansion’s
pika) resembling the rodents. windows. lancet
A lagomorph has well-developed
incisors to help it sever plant stems lament landau
and gnaw on bark. v n
/ lESment / / SlanTdaU /
laity L G geog name
n express sorrow for : bewail, mourn. a four-wheeled covered carriage.
/ SlCEZe / Railroad buffs still lament the People who cannot picture what a
Gk > L > F > E + Ecf demise of the steam locomotive. landau looks like should think of
[Note: Could be confused with Cinderella’s carriage.
lady.] the great body of the people lampoon
of a religious faith as distinguished n landscape
from its clergy. / lamSpVn / n
In most churches, many tasks and F / SlanzTkCp /
duties are given to the laity. a light mocking satire. D
The new movie is a lampoon of the a portion of land or territory that
lallation horror films that are made can be seen in a single view
especially for teenagers. including all the objects so seen.
laloplegia After the snowstorm the landscape
n lamppost looked like a winter wonderland.
/ TlalESplGj(G)E / n
Gk / SlampTpPst / langlauf
paralysis of the muscles involved in Gk > L > FE + E
speech. a pole supporting a usually outdoor langouste
Since Uncle Harry’s stroke caused lighting device. n
laloplegia, he had to communicate The speeding automobile didn’t / lBMSgVst /
with pencil and paper. make the curve and slammed into a L > OProv > F
lamppost, knocking it to the spiny lobster.
lamasery ground. Alicia ordered the langouste at the
n fancy seafood restaurant.
/ SlBmETserG / lamprey
Tibetan > F + Per > F n language
a monastery of Tibetan Buddhist / SlamprG / n
monks or priests. Gaulish? > L > F / SlaNgwij /
Xiang returned from the lamasery a any of various freshwater and L>F>E
wiser and more introspective man. saltwater vertebrates that are [Note: The definition provided is
widely distributed in temperate and not the one most commonly
lambda subarctic regions and resemble eels associated with this word.] the
but have a large circular jawless inner tongue or flat plate opposite
lambent suctorial mouth with numerous the mouth of an organ flue pipe.
small conical teeth. A small chip in the organ’s smallest
lambently A large lamprey slithered out of the language subtly affected its tone.
adv underwater cave, startling the
/ SlambEntlG / diver.
L
in a light and brilliant manner.
Carla’s eyes flashed lambently
under her dark brows.
Page 177 of 349

languescent lapideous larigo
adj adj n
/ laNSgwesFnt / / lESpidGEs / / SlBrDTgP /
L L Sp
becoming listless or fatigued. of the nature of stone. a ring at each end of the cinch of a
The languescent ballerina Lapideous concretions that form in western saddle through which the
struggled through the final scene. the bladder or kidneys can cause straps pass.
extreme pain. When Lynn investigated her loose
languid saddle, she found that a larigo had
adj lapillus broken.
/ SlaNwDd /
L>F larcenous larithmics
sluggish in character or disposition. n pl
In India Mary had always felt hot larceny / lESriLmiks /
and too languid to care much about n Gk
anything. / SlBrs(F)nG / the scientific study of the
L>F>E quantitative aspects of population.
languor the unlawful taking and carrying In accordance with a principle of
away of personal property without larithmics, the emigration from the
languorous the consent of its lawful possessor. country was offset by an increased
When Tina first saw Victor’s art rate of population growth.
languorously collection, she suspected him of
adv larceny. larmoyant
/ SlaN(g)(E)rEslG / adj
L + Ecff larghetto / lBrSmOiEnt /
in a manner characterized by adv L>F
listless indolence or sluggishness. / lBrSgeZ(T)P / given to tears or weeping : tearful.
After returning from work, Cora It Even Jorge, who is not usually
reclined languorously on the sofa. in a somewhat slow manner—used larmoyant, had to wipe his eyes
as a direction in music. during the eulogy.
laniary In the second movement, which is
adj played larghetto, Beethoven larrigan
/ SlCnGTerG / unfolds one melodic idea after n
L another. / SlarDgEn /
adapted for tearing. unknown
Laniary teeth are common in most largitional an oil-tanned moccasin with legs
carnivores. adj that is used especially by loggers
/ lBrSjishEnFl / and trappers.
lanolated L + Ecf The statue of Paul Bunyan depicted
adj of or relating to a gift or gratuity. him with an ax over his shoulder
/ SlanFlTCZDd / The seed money for the new and a hole in one larrigan.
L > ISV + Ecff museum consists entirely of
containing wool grease refined for largitional funds. larva
use in ointments and cosmetics. n
Agnes used lanolated cream to lariat / SlBrvE /
treat her dry, rough skin. n L
/ SlarGEt / the immature, wingless, and often
lantern L > Sp vermiform feeding form of an
n a long light but strong rope used insect which has hatched from the
/ SlantErn / with a running noose for catching insect egg.
Gk > L > F > E livestock. The caterpillar is the larva of the
a portable lamp. Jonathan watched in fascination as butterfly.
The red light in the distance came the cowboy demonstrated his skill
from a lantern that hung from the with the lariat.
last car of the train.
lapidary
Page 178 of 349

laryngitic lathe laudatory
adj n adj
/ TlarDnSjiZik / / SlCL / / SlOdETtPrG /
Gk E L
affected with an inflammation of a machine in which work is rotated of, relating to, or containing praise.
the upper part of the trachea about a horizontal axis and shaped Seth made sure everyone saw his
containing the vocal cords. by a fixed cutting tool while being laudatory telegram from the dean.
After a long day of pitching his held in a chuck.
merchandise, the salesman Chloe donned her safety glasses laughable
returned home exhausted and before switching on the lathe. adj
laryngitic. / SlafEbEl /
laticiferous E + Ecf
laryngitis adj comical, absurd.
/ TlaZESsif(E)rEs / Marlene wore antique finery which
larynx Gk? > L + Ecff would have been laughable on any
n containing, bearing, or secreting other woman.
/ SlariN(k)s / latex.
Gk > L Some laticiferous tropical vines are laughter
the modified upper part of the good sources of rubber.
respiratory passage of air-breathing launder
vertebrates bounded above by the latitude
glottis and continuous below with launderer
the trachea. latitudinous n
The vocal cords are situated within adj / SlOndErE(r) /
the larynx. / TlaZEStVdFnEs / L>F>E
L one who washes and irons clothing.
laser having breadth especially of Gina took her blouse to the
n thought or interpretation. launderer for cleaning.
/ SlCzE(r) / Poetry is a latitudinous category,
English acronym ranging from the moralistic to the laureation
a device that utilizes the natural nihilistic. n
oscillations of atoms or molecules / TlOrGSCshEn /
between energy levels for latkes L
generating coherent an act of crowning with or as if
electromagnetic radiation. lattice with a wreath of leaves as a mark
The surgeon used a laser to make n of honor or achievement.
the incision. / SlaZDs / At her laureation the recipient of
Gmc? > F > E the honorary degree paid tribute to
lassitude a framework or structure of wood her college professors.
n or metal made by crossing laths or
/ SlasETtVd / other thin strips so as to form a laurel
L network. n
a condition of weariness or debility The window has a lattice, but that / SlOrEl /
: fatigue. did not stop Renton from getting L
Lassitude is a symptom of many through it. [has homonym: loral] foliage used
tropical diseases. by the ancient Greeks to crown
laud victors in the Pythian games.
latensify v The ancient statue of an unknown
/ SlOd / athlete bore a carefully carved
laterigrade L wreath of laurel.
adj sing the praises of.
/ SlaZErETgrCd / The proud parents would laud their
L+L child’s slightest accomplishment.
running sidewise or characterized
by such running.
The laterigrade movements of the
crab delighted the children on the
beach.
Page 179 of 349

lavash lebkuchen legerdemain
n n n
/ SlBTvBsh / / SlCpTkVKEn / / TlejE(r)dESmCn /
Armenian G F
a large thin crisp unleavened wafer a Christmas cookie usually made skill and dexterity in the
with a rough surface caused by air with honey, brown sugar, almonds, performance of juggling or
bubbles during baking. candied fruit peel, and spices. conjuring tricks.
Phil served lavash with goat Bart slipped a lebkuchen to the The performer’s legerdemain
cheese. schnauzer. included making a coworker
disappear from an enclosure.
lavatory lecithin
n n legerity
/ SlavETtPrG / / SlesEthDn / n
L Gk / lDSjerEZG /
a room with conveniences for a substance that is obtained in the L>F
washing the hands and face and manufacture of soybean oil and that mental or physical agility and
usually with one or more toilets. is used in foods (as margarine, quickness.
All of the soap dispensers in the chocolate, bakery products). The gymnast performed on the
lavatory were empty. Lecithin is used in the production balance beam with remarkable
of caramel to make it smoother. legerity.
lavender
lectern leggieramente
layette n
/ SlektE(r)n / legibility
league L
n a desk or stand with a sloping top legible
/ SlGg / and usually a ledge at the bottom of
Gaulish > L > E the slope designed to support a legislate
[Note: The definition provided is book or script in a convenient
not the one most commonly position for a reader standing legislatorial
associated with this word.] an before it. adj
English unit of distance of about 3 Miguel clutched the lectern in an / TlejDslEStPrGEl /
miles. attempt to conceal his nervousness. L + Ecf
Long car rides seem shorter if you having the power or performing the
figure them by the league instead of lectionary function of making laws.
by the mile. Unfinished legislatorial duties kept
lectotype Congress in session past its normal
leaky adjournment date.
lederhosen
leasable n pl legislature
/ SlCdE(r)ThPzFn / n
lease G / SlejDTslCchE(r) /
knee-length leather trousers worn L + Ecf
leatherine especially in Bavaria. an organized body of persons
All the men who volunteered to having the authority to make laws.
leaven work at Oktoberfest were asked to Ellen served as a page for the
n wear lederhosen. legislature last year.
/ SlevEn /
L>F>E legacy legitimacy
[has homonym and near n
homonyms: levin and eleven, / SlegEsG / leguminous
levan] a substance (as yeast) acting L>F>E adj
or used to produce fermentation in money or property given to / lDSgyVmEnEs /
a dough or a liquid. someone by direction of a will. L
Nina neglected to add the leaven Tim opened a small business with of, resembling, or consisting of
that causes the bread dough to rise. the legacy from his father. peas or other vegetables.
The only leguminous food that
Mandy likes is peas.
Page 180 of 349

leisurable lenient leporiform
adj adj
/ SlGzh(E)rEbEl / leoncito / SlepErETfOrm /
L>F>E n L+E
proceeding deliberately without / TlCEnSsG(T)tP / resembling a hare or rabbit in form.
haste. Sp For Easter, Mom decorates the
The bikers made a leisurable tour a lion monkey; any of several windows with leporiform figures
of the campus. South American marmosets. bearing baskets of eggs.
The leoncito has a mane of fur
leisure around its head like a lion. leprosy
n
lemming leonine / SleprEsG /
n adj Gk > L
/ SlemiN / / SlGETnIn / a progressive infectious disease that
ON > Norw L affects the skin and nerves and
any of several small rodents of resembling or suggesting that of a causes lumps, ulcers, white scaly
circumpolar distribution. lion. patches, deformities, and eventual
The legend of suicide by drowning Portraits of Beethoven and Einstein loss of sensation.
associated with the lemming is always depict them with leonine Even though approximately 270
fascinating but probably untrue. hairstyles. cases of leprosy are diagnosed in
the United States each year,
lemniscate leopard effective medications have made
n the existence of leper colonies
lemonade / SlepE(r)d / unnecessary.
Gk > L > F > E
lemur a large strong cat of southern Asia leptocercal
n and Africa that is adept at climbing adj
/ SlGmE(r) / and is usually tawny or buff with / TleptESsErkEl /
L black spots. Gk + Gk
any of numerous arboreal chiefly The so-called “black panther” is tapering off to a long slender
nocturnal mammals formerly actually a black-coated form of the point—used of the tail of a fish.
widespread but now largely leopard. The scuba diver showed Jane his
confined to Madagascar that are scar from a wound he received
related to the monkeys. leopardess when whipped by the leptocercal
The lemur is lower on the tail of a stingray.
evolutionary scale and less leotard
intelligent than the monkey. n lesion
/ SlGETtBrd / n
length F name / SlGzhEn /
n a close-fitting garment for the torso L>F>E
/ SleN(k)th / that is worn for practice or [has near homonym: legion] an
E performance by dancers and abnormal change in structure of an
the longer of the two straight-line acrobats. organ or part due to injury or
dimensions of a surface or plane or In modern dance, performers often disease.
the longest of the three straight-line wear a very simple leotard. Sarah had Dr. Kendall treat the
dimensions of a solid : extent from lesion on her shin.
end to end. lepidopterist
Marsha and her father frequently n lethal
argue over the length of her skirts. / TlepESdBptErDst / adj
Gk / SlGJEl /
leniency a specialist in the study of L
n butterflies and moths. of, relating to, or causing death.
/ SlGnGEnsG / Judy was well on her way to The lethal fire spread through the
L becoming a lepidopterist; she Riggs Building rapidly.
the quality or state of being tolerant already had her own butterfly net.
or merciful.
At his sentencing the convicted
felon expressed remorse and
pleaded for leniency.
Page 181 of 349

lethargic levanter levy
adj n v
/ lDSthBrjik / / lDSvantE(r) / / SlevG /
Gk > L > F L > F > E + Ecf F>E
slow-moving, sluggish. a strong easterly Mediterranean impose or collect by legal process
Rhea’s dry throat and lethargic wind. or by authority.
disposition warned her that a cold When the levanter hits the Rock of The political candidate promised to
was coming. Gibraltar, it soars up 1,400 feet, levy no new taxes if he were
and its vapor becomes a dense elected.
lethargy white cloud.
n lexicography
/ SlethE(r)jG / levee
Gk n lexicon
the quality or state of being lazy or / SlevG / n
indifferent : lassitude, apathy. L>F / SleksETkBn /
The hot, humid air of the tropics [has homonym: levy] an Gk
spreads a feeling of lethargy over embankment built alongside a body the vocabulary of a subject or of an
everyone. of water to prevent flooding of occupational group.
nearby land. The lexicon of computer
letteret The city plans to construct a levee programmers is slowly becoming
to prevent flooding from the river. part of everyday language.
lettuce
n level liability
/ SleZDs /
L>F>E leverage liable
a common garden vegetable with
succulent leaves that are often used leveret liaison
in salads. n
Rosemarie prefers romaine lettuce / Slev(E)rDt / libel
for her salads. L>F>E
a wild rabbit in its first year. liberalism
leucitite Jimmy’s pet rabbit is a leveret that n
his dad caught while cutting hay. / Slib(E)rETlizEm /
leucoryx L + Ecf
n leviathan a political philosophy based on the
/ SlVkE(T)riks / adj belief in freedom for the individual
Gk / lDSvIEthEn / and on the belief of governmental
a large chiefly pale brownish Heb > L > E guarantees of human rights and
antelope of North Africa. of enormous size. civil liberties.
The horns of the leucoryx are The ore was hauled away in Alex believes that persons attracted
evenly curved backwards. leviathan trucks. to liberalism are often more
compassionate than practical.
levade levity
n n liberalize
/ lESvBd / / SlevEZG /
F>G L librarian
a show-ring movement in which a excessive or unseemly frivolity : n
horse raises the forequarters, brings lack of fitting seriousness. / lISbrerGEn /
the hindquarters under him, and The minister’s levity during the L
balances with haunches deeply bent eulogy was inappropriate. one whose vocation is working
and forelegs drawn up. with collections of books,
When a horse’s body is at a less- manuscripts, or other literary
than-45-degree angle with the materials kept for study or reading.
ground, the movement is called a Juan asked the librarian for the key
“levade.” to the rare-book cabinet.
Page 182 of 349

library licit lieutenant
n adj n
/ SlITbrerG / / SlisDt / / lVStenEnt /
L L L>F>E
a room or section of a building or a not forbidden by law : lawful. a military officer in the army, navy,
building itself given over to books, Even licit drugs can be dangerous air force, or marine corps.
manuscripts, or other literary and if not used as directed by a At the end of the novel, the young
sometimes artistic materials usually physician. naval hero was finally promoted to
kept in some convenient order for lieutenant.
use but not for sale. lidocaine
Stella owns many books and plans ligament
to convert a spare bedroom to a liege n
library. adj / SligEmEnt /
/ SlGj / L
libretto L>F>E something that ties or unites one
n having the right to feudal thing or part to another.
/ lDSbre(T)ZP / allegiance and service. International law is considered by
L The serf bowed low before his liege some to be the ligament of
the text of a work (as an opera) for lord. mankind.
the musical theater.
Michelle bought a dual-language lien ligature
edition of the libretto of Tosca for a n
quarter at a garage sale. lienholder / SligEchE(r) /
n L>F>E
licensable / SlGnThPldEr / something that is used to bind;
L>F+E specifically : a thread, wire, or
licentiate one having a valid mortgage. other material used in surgery.
n When she returned from vacation, Dr. Adams removed the ligature
/ lISsenchGDt / Iris was mortified to find a stack of that had held the vein closed during
L letters from her lienholder. the operation.
an academic degree ranking below
that of a doctor given by some lieu lightning
European institutions of higher n adj
education. / SlV / / SlItniN /
After two years’ study, Reverend L>F E
Pease received a licentiate in [has homonym: loo] place, stead. [has near homonym: lightening]
canon law. Miss Woodhouse had many moving with or having the speed
acquaintances, but not one among and suddenness of lightning.
lichen them could be accepted in lieu of The lightning rapidity of Mr.
n her best friend Miss Taylor for even Julia’s jargon and wit is a tool of
/ SlIkDn / half a day. his trade as an auctioneer.
Gk > L
[has homonym: liken] any of lieutenancy ligneous
numerous complex plants that are n adj
made up of an alga and a fungus / lVStenEnsG / / SlignGEs /
growing in symbiotic association L>F>E L
on various solid surfaces (as rocks the term of a commissioned officer of or resembling wood.
or the bark of trees). in the army, air force, or marine Mr. Hart described the plant as a
Sean used a mixture of green paint corps ranking below a captain. perennial herb with a ligneous
and sawdust to simulate lichen on During his lieutenancy, Lionel crown.
his model train layout. served in Guam.
lichenified
lichenophagous
Page 183 of 349

ligniperdous limerick limpid
adj n adj
/ TlignESpErdEs / / Slim(E)rik / / SlimpDd /
L+L Irish geog name L
destructive to wood. a light verse form of five anapestic completely free from cloudiness or
The house had to be inspected for lines. other obstacles to the passage of
any ligniperdous insects before it Noel composed a funny limerick light.
could be sold. about his teacher. Mary got an eerie feeling when she
looked into the limpid blue eyes of
lilac limitrophe the Siberian Husky.
adj
liliaceous / SlimETtrPf / linctus
adj L + Gk
/ TlilGSCshEs / situated on a border or frontier : lineament
L adjacent, neighboring.
of, relating to, or resembling any of The geography teacher asked the linear
numerous erect perennial leafy- class to name all the countries that adj
stemmed bulbous herbs. are limitrophe to Russia. / SlinGE(r) /
Deb’s curtain material has a L
colorful liliaceous pattern. limn involving a single dimension : not
v square or cubic.
lilliputian / Slim / The micrometer caliper is an
adj L>F>E instrument for making precise
/ TlilDSpyVshEn / [has homonym: limb] outline in linear measurements of dimensions
imaginary geog name + Ecf clear sharp detail : delineate. such as diameters, thicknesses, and
extremely small. The object of the video game is to lengths.
The lilliputian furniture and fire when the periscope sights limn
fixtures in the dollhouse astounded the tanker. linen
and delighted the museum visitors.
limnology lingerie
limb n
n / limSnBlEjG / linguist
/ Slim / L + Gk n
E the scientific study of physical, / SliNgwDst /
[Note: The definition provided is chemical, meteorological, and L
not the one most commonly biological conditions in fresh a student of or expert in languages.
associated with this word. In waters especially of ponds and The famous linguist described how
addition, word has homonym: lakes. many tribal languages are
limn.] the outer edge of the An expert in limnology testified that becoming extinct.
apparent disk of a celestial body or pollution is reducing the fish
a portion of the edge. population in Crystal Lake. linguistically
Teresa spied a crater directly on
the Moon’s limb. limousine liniment
n n
limbiferous / SlimETzGn / / SlinEmEnt /
adj F geog name L>E
/ limSbif(E)rEs / a small bus (as for transporting a liquid or semiliquid alcoholic,
L+L passengers to and from an airport). oily, or saponaceous preparation
having a border or margin. Mrs. Waldrupe was disappointed for application to the skin with
Mr. Lovejoy told his pupils that that her airport limousine was a friction.
they would be expected to use ramshackle van. Winona delicately rubbed liniment
limbiferous paper for all their over her sore shoulder.
assignments.
limby
Page 184 of 349

linoleum literate litigator
n adj n
/ lDSnPlGEm / / SliZErDt / / SliZETgCZE(r) /
L L L
a floor covering made by laying on able to read and write. one that prosecutes or defends by
a cloth backing a mixture of The government’s goal for all adult pleadings, evidence, and debate in
solidified linseed oil and various citizens to be literate in 20 years a court.
solid particles and usually needs a strategic plan. The cough drop manufacturer hired
pigments. a famous litigator to appear in its
The pattern in Sheena’s kitchen literati new commercial.
linoleum resembles inlaid pebbles. n pl
/ TliZESrBZG / litigiousness
liquefaction L&It n
n the educated class : intelligentsia. / lDStijEsnDs /
/ TlikwDSfakshEn / The New York literati gathered at L
L the book-signing party. the quality or state of being prone
the process of making or becoming to engage in lawsuits.
liquid : conversion of a solid into a literature An increase in lawsuits can be
liquid by heat or of a gas into a attributed in part to the growing
liquid by cold or pressure. lithesome litigiousness of American society.
Much earthquake damage results adj
from the liquefaction of soil on / SlILsEm / litmus
which buildings stand. E+E n
characterized by agile grace. / SlitmEs /
liquefiable Denise’s lithesome performance in Scand
adj her audition won her a place in the a coloring matter that turns red in
/ TlikwDSfIEbEl / Royal Ballet. acid solutions and blue in alkaline
L solutions and is obtained from
capable of being reduced to a liquid lithification several lichens.
state. n Chris will use litmus to test for
Many familiar solid materials are / TlithEfDSkCshEn / acidity in the chemical solution.
easily liquefiable by heating. Gk + L
the conversion of unconsolidated litotes
liquescent sediments into solid rock. n
adj Ben’s science project explained / SlIZETtGz /
/ liSkwesFnt / how limestone is formed by Gk
L lithification. understatement in which an
being, becoming, or tending to affirmative is expressed by a
become liquid : melting. lithochromy negative of the contrary (as in
When a giant asteroid hits the n “He’s not a bad ball player”).
ground, it is transformed into a / SlithETkrPmG / Rupert loved to use the litotes “not
liquescent mass that becomes a Gk bad” to convey high praise.
fireball. the art of painting on stone.
Arthur’s work in lithochromy litterateur
liqueur earned him a commission to paint a
scene on the museum’s slate wall. litterbug
liquidate
lithograph littoral
lisle adj
lithoid / SliZErEl /
lisse adj L
/ SliTthOid / [has homonym: literal] of, relating
litany Gk to, or being near a shore, especially
resembling a stone. of the sea.
The lava eventually solidified into Eduardo finally realized his dream
lithoid masses. when he established a littoral
nature preserve.
litigation
Page 185 of 349

liturgical lobotomy lodging
adj n n
/ lDStErjDkEl / / lPSbBZEmG / / SlBjiN /
Gk > L Gk E
of, relating to, or having the incision into the brain to sever a place to live : dwelling.
characteristics of ceremonial or nerve fibers for the relief of certain After a fire destroyed their home,
ritualistic worship. mental disorders and tension. the family depended on relatives
The priest donned his liturgical Lobotomy is no longer the for temporary lodging.
vestments before the mass. preferred treatment in cases of
extreme psychosis. logarithm
liturgy n
n lobscouse / SlOgETriLEm /
/ SliZE(r)jG / n Gk
Gk / SlBbTskaUs / the exponent that indicates the
a rite or series of rites, observances, unknown power to which a number must be
or procedures prescribed for public a sailor’s dish prepared by stewing raised to produce a given number.
worship in the Christian church in or baking bits of meat with When the math teacher said that 4
accordance with authorized or vegetables, hardtack, and other is the logarithm of 16 to the base 2,
standard form. ingredients. only half the class understood what
Since the Second Vatican Council, After Fritz returned from his she was saying.
the use of the vernacular language, fishing trip, he ordered a hearty
rather than Latin, has become portion of lobscouse for dinner. logarithmic
widespread in Catholic liturgy.
locale loggia
livelihood n n
/ lPSkal / / SlBj(G)E /
liveried L>F F > It
a place or locality especially when [has near homonym: logia] a
livid viewed in relation to a particular roofed open gallery or arcade in the
adj event or characteristic. side of a building especially when
/ SlivDd / Evan’s doctor told him he needed facing upon an open court.
L>F to live in a drier locale, so he An airy second-floor loggia ran
discolored by or as if by bruising : moved to Tucson. around three sides of the tiny
black-and-blue. courtyard.
The bicycle accident left a large location
livid patch on Violet’s arm. logician
lochetic
llama adj logion
n / lPSkGZik / n
/ SlBmE / Gk / SlPjGTBn /
Quechua > Sp lying in wait for prey—used Gk
[has homonym: lama] any of a especially of insects. a usually short pointed saying or
genus of wild or domesticated cud- Josh claimed that the ants in the observation especially of a
chewing mammals of South nest next to his porch must be religious teacher.
America related to the camels but lochetic, because they always The guru’s devotees treasured
smaller and without a hump. seemed to know when he was every logion that he uttered.
The llama thrives in the Alpine barefoot.
grasslands of Bolivia, Peru, Chile, logistics
and Argentina. locomotion n pl
/ lPSjistiks /
loam locust Gk
n military science in its planning and
loathsome / SlPkEst / handling and implementation of
L>E personnel, equipment, and
a grasshopper that frequently facilities.
travels in swarms. Juan has been interested in
Cooper placed the captured locust logistics since he first played with
in a mason jar. toy soldiers.
Page 186 of 349

logogriph \longiloquence lovat
n
/ SlOgETgrif / longitudinal loveliness
Gk n
[has near homonym: logograph] a loquacious / SlEvlGnDs /
word puzzle. adj E
Katrina spent the afternoon / lPSkwCshEs / the state of being beautiful.
constructing a logogriph for her L Colette was awestruck by the
little brother. given to excessive talking : loveliness of the stained-glass
garrulous. windows.
logomachy Bryn’s loquacious sister was quite
n a hit at the rehearsal party. loxocosm
/ lPSgBmEkG / n
Gk loquacity / SlBksETkBzEm /
a dispute over or about words. Gk
Behind the legislature’s logomachy lorgnette a device to show how the
about what makes a Great Lake n inclination of Earth’s axis causes
“great” lay political and economic / lO(r)nSyet / the day’s length to vary from
motives. F season to season.
a pair of eyeglasses or opera John constructed a loxocosm for
logorrhea glasses with a handle. the science fair.
n Lorgnette in one hand and hankie
/ TlOgESrGE / in the other, Mrs. Vandergriff lozenge
Gk looked just like the opera-goers n
pathologically excessive and often portrayed in cartoons. / SlBzFnj /
incoherent talkativeness. F
The patient’s logorrhea was loricate a small diamond-shaped medicated
indicative of deep emotional n candy.
problems. / SlOrEkDt / Mother gave Rick a cherry-flavored
L lozenge for his sore throat.
loiter an animal having a hard protective
case or shell. luau
lonely The armadillo is a well-known n
adj loricate, as is the alligator. / SlVTaU /
/ SlPnlG / Hawaiian
E + Ecf lorikeet a feast with Hawaiian food and
being without company. n usually Hawaiian entertainment.
Allie took a picture of a lonely / SlOrDTkGt / Sabrina wore a grass skirt to the
fisherman on the pier. Malay + Sp&F luau.
any of numerous small arboreal
longanimity parrots that are found in Australasia lucernal
n and that feed largely upon the adj
/ TlBNgESnimEZG / nectar of flowers. / TlVSsErnFl /
L Ginger has a pet lorikeet that rides L + Ecf
a disposition to bear injuries on her shoulder. of or relating to a lamp.
patiently : forbearance. A slide projector is a lucernal
Murphy’s Law strikes often in lounge device for displaying images on a
George’s project, but his screen.
longanimity will help him weather loupe
all setbacks. n lucid
/ SlVp / adj
longevity Gmc > F / SlVsDd /
n [has homonyms: loop and loup] L
/ lBnSjevEZG / small magnifying glass used by penetrated with light : translucent.
L jewelers and watchmakers. The otters romped and played in
a long duration of individual life. At his jewelry store Arlo always the lucid stream.
Mr. Wade’s longevity was wears a loupe on a chain around
remarkable, considering he had his neck. lucidity
been sickly as a child.
Page 187 of 349

lucrative lumen luncheonette
n n
luculent / SlVmDn / / TlEnchESnet /
adj L E + Fcf
/ SlVkyElEnt / a unit of luminous flux equal to the a place where light lunches are
L light emitted in a unit solid angle sold.
transparently clear in thought or by a uniform point source of one After playing racquetball, Jaime
expression. candle. stopped at the luncheonette for a
The audience was pleasantly The lumen is used in calculations sandwich.
amazed at the luculent commentary regarding artificial lighting.
on the state of the economy. lunge
luminaire v
ludicrous n / SlEnj /
adj / TlVmESna(a)(E)r / F
/ SlVdEkrEs / L>F make a forceful forward
L a complete lighting unit including movement.
meriting derisive laughter or scorn : lamp, shade, reflector, fixture, and Every few seconds the swordsman
absurd. other accessories. would lunge at his opponent.
The jury was instructed to A luminaire was built into each
disregard the ludicrous remarks cubicle in the office. lunule
made by the defendant.
luminary luscious
luftmensch n adj
n / SlVmETnerG / / SlEshEs /
/ SlUftTmench / L E
G > Yiddish one that is an inspiration to others : having a delicious taste or smell.
an impractical contemplative one who has achieved success in The waiter pointed to cakes and
person having no definite trade, his or her chosen field. pastries, each more luscious than
business, or income : dreamer. Although a luminary in the field, the last, as he told us about them.
Every large family seems to have at Peter was reluctant to weigh in
least one luftmensch among its with his opinion about the ethics of lustrous
members. cloning. adj
/ SlEstrEs /
lugubrious luminosity L > It > F + Ecf
adj n having a gloss or shine : gleaming.
/ lESgVbrGEs / / TlVmESnBsEZG / When dining out, Marcia always
L>E L wears some lustrous jewelry.
expressive of, marked by, or giving the quantity of radiation emitted by
rise to grief or sorrow. a star or other celestial source lute
The funeral director spoke in usually expressed in terms of the n
lugubrious tones as she explained Sun’s intensity. / SlVt /
the arrangements. The comet’s luminosity was so Ar > OProv > F > E
great that it could be seen during [has homonym: loot] a stringed
lullaby the day. musical instrument of Oriental
n origin that has a large pear-shaped
/ SlElETbI / luminous body.
E adj The court minstrel strummed his
a soothing refrain; especially : a / SlVmEnEs / lute thoughtfully, deciding which
song used to quiet children or lull L song to play next.
them to sleep. emitting or seeming to emit a
The baby was asleep before Mary steady suffused light that is luthier
finished singing the lullaby. reflected or produced from within. n
During the movie Stan periodically / SlVZGE(r) /
checked the time on the luminous Ar > OProv > F
dial of his watch. a maker of stringed instruments.
The luthier gave Dolores a choice
luncheon of inlay patterns for her new guitar.
Page 188 of 349

lux lynx macaroni
n n n
/ SlEks / / SliN(k)s / / TmakESrPnG /
L Gk It
[has homonyms: lucks, luxe] a unit [has homonym: links] any of an alimentary pasta composed
of illumination equal to the direct several wildcats with relatively chiefly of semolina dried in the
illumination on a surface that is long legs, a short stubby tail, form of slender tubes or small
everywhere 1 meter from a uniform mottled coat, and often tufted ears. fancy shapes.
point source of one candle. The lynx lives in cold northern Lucy’s favorite pasta dish is
Paul’s new video camera is latitudes, where its favorite prey is macaroni and cheese.
designed to operate in a light the snowshoe hare.
intensity of only 1 lux. macaroon
lyonnaise n
luxate adj / TmakESrVn /
/ SlIETnCz / It > F
luxuriant F geog name a small cake composed chiefly of
prepared or seasoned with onions the white of eggs, sugar, and
luxurious and sometimes parsley. ground almonds or almond paste or
adj Ricardo ordered lyonnaise potatoes coconut.
/ TlEgSzhUrGEs / as an elegant alternative to french Cheryl placed a fresh macaroon on
L fries. each saucer before serving the
characterized by wealth or rich coffee.
abundance. lyre
The price of the car with the macaw
luxurious interior astounded even lyrically
wealthy customers. maceral
macadam n
luxury n / SmasETral /
/ mESkadEm / L?
lycanthrope British name a fragment of plant debris in coal.
n broken stone used in roadway Penny examined the maceral under
/ SlIkEnTthrPp / paving. a microscope.
Gk Depending on the climate, some
a person transformed temporarily roads are best made of macadam macerate
or permanently into a wolf or and others, of asphalt.
capable of assuming a wolf’s form. Machiavellian
The zoologist contends that the macaque adj
myth of the lycanthrope is one of n / TmakGESvelGEn /
the reasons wolves are so / mESkak / It name
maligned. Pg > F of or relating to Machiavelli or his
any of numerous short-tailed Old political theory that any means
lyceum World monkeys chiefly of southern however lawless or unscrupulous
Asia and the East Indies. can justifiably be used in achieving
lycopene The islanders trained a macaque to political power.
perform several routines for public The Machiavellian politician was
lymphatic entertainment. accused of wheeling and dealing,
adj backstabbing, and creating fall
/ limSfaZik / macarize guys and cover-ups.
Gk > L v
conveying a pale fluid that bathes / SmakETrIz /
the tissues of an organism. Gk
The lymphatic system is vital in pronounce happy or blessed :
removing harmful bacteria from felicitate, laud.
tissues. After the wedding ceremony
various friends will give speeches
to macarize the happy couple.
Page 189 of 349

machicolation madarosis maestro
n n n
/ mETchikESlCshEn / / TmadESrPsDs / / SmI(T)strP /
F>L+L Gk > L L > It
an opening on a parapet of a loss of the eyelashes or of the hair a master or teacher of an art (as
battlement for the purpose of of the eyebrows. music).
dropping missiles upon assailants Dorothy suffered from madarosis The award-winning singer gave
attacking from below. during chemotherapy, but her tribute to her maestro at the
Whenever a castle gets stormed in eyelashes eventually grew back conservatory.
the movies, the defenders are even thicker than before.
shown pouring boiling oil through maffick
a machicolation onto the enemy madeleine
attacking the gates. n magazine
/ SmadFlDn /
machination F name magenta
a small rich cake baked in a tin n
machinator shaped like a shell. / mESjentE /
Knut skipped the main course and It geog name
mackerel went right to the madeleine. a deep purplish red; specifically :
one of the subtractive primary
mackinaw mademoiselle colors.
n n The visual afterimage of magenta is
/ SmakETnO / / TmadEmwESzel / green.
Amer geog name F
a short usually double-breasted and an unmarried French woman. maggoty
belted coat or jacket of heavy Robert is smitten by a young
fabric. mademoiselle he met during his magisterial
“No guts, no glory!” exclaimed the trip to Paris. adj
skier in a plaid mackinaw as he / SmajETstirGEl /
pushed off down the slope. madrigal L
n of, relating to, or having the
macle / SmadrDgEl / characteristics of a master or
L > It > E teacher : authoritative.
macrame a polyphonic part-song originating Jubril’s magisterial air served him
n in the 14th century. well with everyone but his
/ SmakrETmC / At the coronation feast the daughter.
Ar > Turk > It or F haunting madrigal brought tears to
a coarse lace or decorative fringe the eyes of the new king. magistracy
made by knotting threads or cords n
in a geometrical pattern. madrilene / SmajEstrEsG /
Penny prefers to use soft yarn in L
her macrame. maelstrom the office of a public official
n entrusted with administration of the
macrocosm / SmClztrEm / laws : magisterial power and
D dignity.
Madagascar a powerful water current that The dissenters were persecuted by
adj usually moves in a circular the state for refusing to accept the
/ TmadESgaskE(r) / direction with extreme rapidity. authority of the magistracy.
African geog name A memorable scene from the movie
of or from Madagascar, an island in Fantasia features the sorcerer’s
the Indian Ocean. apprentice caught in a maelstrom.
Lemurs, cute large-eyed furry
monkey-like animals, are the best
known Madagascar fauna.
Page 190 of 349

magnanimity mahout majordomo
n n n
/ TmagnESnimEZG / / mEShaUt / / TmCjE(r)SdP(T)mP /
L Skt > Hindi L > It > Sp
a nobility of feeling that is superior a keeper and driver of an elephant. [has near homonym: mayordomo]
to meanness, pettiness, or jealousy The mahout trained his elephant to a head steward or palace official.
and that disdains revenge or move logs. Jeeves has been majordomo of
retaliation. Huntington Castle for the last 30
The philosopher praised the mai years.
victor’s magnanimity in allowing n
the captives to return home. / SmI / majority
Jpn n
magnanimous [has homonym: my] a slow / mESjOrEZG /
adj Japanese folk or theater dance L
/ TmagSnanEmEs / featuring hand gestures. a number greater than half of a
L Midori is an expert in all forms of total.
showing or suggesting nobility of Japanese dance, but her favorite is A runoff is necessary because none
feeling and generosity of mind. the mai. of the candidates captured a
Simone’s magnanimous attitude majority of the votes in the
toward the homeless wasn’t shared maillot primary.
by her sister. n
/ maSyP / majuscule
magnetic F adj
adj [has near homonym: mayo] a / SmajETskyVl /
/ magSneZik / woman’s one-piece usually L>F
Gk geog name strapless bathing suit. written in large letters (as capitals).
possessing the ability or power to Becky thought that the maillot was Dr. Jenkins could see immediately
attract. out of fashion until she saw several that the majuscule scripts of the
Even as a child, Julie’s magnetic in the catalog. two letters were identical and
personality charmed everyone who deduced that the same scribe had
spoke to her. maimed written both.
adj
magnetizable / SmCmd / malachite
Gmc > F > E n
magnificat crippled, mutilated. / SmalETkIt /
The maimed dog was taken to the Gk > L > E
magnificent animal hospital for treatment. a mineral consisting of a green
carbonate of copper that is an ore
mahatma maintenance of copper and is used to make
n n ornamental objects.
/ mEShBtmE / / SmCnt(E)nEn(t)s / Pierre bought a piece of malachite
Skt F at the museum of natural history.
a person held worthy of reverence the labor of keeping something (as
for high-mindedness, wisdom, and buildings or equipment) in a state maladive
selflessness. of repair or efficiency : upkeep.
Raoul trekked for three days to seek Excellent maintenance preserved maladroit
the advice of the mahatma. the original gingerbread trim on
the Victorian house. malady
mahogany n
n maize / SmalEdG /
/ mEShBgEnG / n L>F>E
unknown / SmCz / a disease, distemper, disorder, or
the durable yellowish brown to Taino > Sp indisposition of the body
reddish brown wood of a West [has homonym: maze] Indian corn. proceeding from impaired or
Indian tree that is widely used for Gina enjoys hearing the story of defective functions.
cabinetwork and fine finish work. how the native Americans taught In the 14th century, the malady
Kate’s bedroom furniture is made the Pilgrims to grow maize. known as The Black Death swept
of solid mahogany. across Europe, leaving about 25
million people dead.
Page 191 of 349

malaguena malefactor malleable
n n adj
/ TmalESgCnyE / / SmalETfaktE(r) / / SmalGEbEl /
Sp geog name L L>F>E
a Spanish couple dance similar to a one who commits an offense capable of being extended or
fandango. against the law. shaped by beating with a hammer
Juan and Carmela danced the The state’s correctional program or by the pressure of rollers.
malaguena with extroardinary was designed to rehabilitate as well Because tin is malleable at
grace and emotional excitement. as punish the malefactor. ordinary temperatures, it has been
used to make many household
malapropism maleficent implements.
n
/ SmalETprBTpizEm / malice malleolus
F > E theater name n n
a blundering use of a word that / SmalDs / / mESlGElEs /
sounds somewhat like the one L>F>E L
intended but is ludicrously wrong revengeful or unfriendly feelings : [has somewhat near homonym:
in the context. ill will, enmity. malleus] the rounded lateral
No matter how careful he tries to In spite of all he has had to put up projection on each bone of the leg
be, Sherman usually utters at least with from his classmates, Joel at the ankle.
one malapropism in every bears them no malice. When Marcie realized that her
campaign speech. brother was about to reveal her
malign secret, she kicked him on the
malaria malleolus.
n malignant
/ mESlerGE / adj mallet
L > It + Gk > L > It / mESlignEnt / n
a disease caused by sporozoan L / SmalDt /
parasites in the red blood cells, evil in nature or influence or effect. F>E
transmitted by the bite of The dark clammy coldness a tool with a large head for striking
anopheline mosquitoes, and surrounded her like a malignant a surface without marring it.
characterized by periodic attacks of beast of prey. Ray used a rubber mallet to put the
chills and fevers. wheel cover back in place after he
During the construction of the malingerer changed the flat tire.
Panama Canal many workers n
succumbed to malaria. / mESliNgerE(r) / malloseismic
Gmc? > F adj
malaxage one who pretends to be ill or / TmalPSsIzmik /
n otherwise physically or mentally Gk
/ SmCTlaksij / incapacitated so as to avoid duty or of, relating to, or being a region
Gk > L > F work. subject to frequent destructive
the act or process of softening a Jamie Farr’s character on the earthquakes.
material (as clay) by moistening television series M*A*S*H was an Chris refuses to move to any of the
and working it. entertaining malingerer. malloseismic areas of California.
After the malaxage the clay was
ready for molding on the potter’s mallard malocclusion
wheel. n n
/ SmalE(r)d / / malESklVzhEn /
malediction F>E L
n a common wild duck of the an abnormality in the fitting
/ TmalESdikshEn / northern hemisphere. together of upper and lower teeth or
L When Timmy fed the ducks at the dentures.
curse, execration. marina, he gave his last piece of Hector wore braces on his teeth to
The villain’s last words were a bread to the mallard. correct a malocclusion.
malediction on the entire royal
family.
Page 192 of 349

malodorous mandible mangonel
adj n n
/ malSPdErEs / / SmandEbEl / / SmaNgETnel /
L+L L Gk > L > F > E
having a bad odor : rank, fetid, any of various invertebrate a military engine formerly used for
stinking. mouthparts serving to hold or bite throwing missiles.
Evelina smelled the malodorous into food materials. With a sharp twang the mangonel
skunk from 500 yards away. Most insects use the mandible for hurled a boulder at the castle gate.
crushing their food.
mammoth manicotti
adj mandolinist n pl
/ SmamEth / / TmanDSkBZG /
Yakut? > Russ manducatory L > It
gigantic. adj tubular pasta shells stuffed with
Clarence specialized in growing / SmanjDkETtPrG / ricotta.
mammoth vegetables and held L The caterer filled the chafing dish
several records for his specimens. relating to, employed in, or adapted with manicotti.
for chewing.
manacle Mr. Rollins brought a live lobster manifesto
to our biology class so that we n
managerial could observe its manducatory / TmanESfe(T)stP /
adj processes. L > It
/ TmanESjirGEl / a public declaration of intentions,
L > It + Ecf manganese motives, or views.
of, relating to, or characteristic of a n The Unabomber’s rambling
person who conducts, directs, or / SmaNgETnGz / manifesto appeared in a number of
supervises something. Gk > L > It newspapers nationwide.
The classified ads included a notice a grayish white metallic element
for a managerial position at the that is ordinarily hard and brittle, manipulator
steel wool factory. resembles iron but is not magnetic,
and is used chiefly in making steel. manna
mandate Manganese nodules, which cover n
n vast stretches of ocean floor, are / SmanE /
/ SmanTdCt / composed mostly of manganese but Heb > Gk > L > E
L also contain iron, nickel, copper, [has near homonym: mana]
a formal order from a superior and cobalt. something of value that falls one’s
court or official to an inferior one. way : windfall.
The clerk delivered the written mange Children swarmed the parade route
mandate to the lower court judge collecting the manna of treats
by hand. mangle tossed from the float.
v
mandatory / SmaNgEl / manoptoscope
adj F > AF > E
/ SmandETtPrG / [has homonym: mangel] cut, mansard
L bruise, or hack with repeated blows
containing, constituting, or relating or strokes. mansuetude
to an authoritative command, order, As an act of vengeance, Scott n
or injunction. vowed that he would mangle Sara’s / Sman(t)swETtVd /
Several states are instituting a prize-winning painting. L
mandatory work program for the quality or state of being gentle :
employable welfare recipients. meekness.
Gary remembered his mother as
having the sensitivity and
mansuetude of a saint.
Page 193 of 349

manumit marcescent marine
v adj adj
/ SmanyETmit / / mBrSsesFnt / / mESrGn /
L L L
set free; especially : release from of a plant part : withering without of or relating to the sea.
slavery. falling off. Marine iguanas live on the shores
The tobacco farmer had agreed to Autumn’s first cold snap left many of the Galapagos Islands and eat
manumit his one slave just before marcescent leaves in its wake. seaweed.
the Civil War began.
marchioness marionette
manuscript n n
/ SmBrsh(E)nDs / / Tma(a)rGESnet /
maraca L F
n a woman who holds in her own a puppet moved by strings or by
/ mESrBkE / right the rank of marquess. hand (as in a puppet show).
Tupi > Pg Once a month the workers on the A marionette of Jay Leno was the
a dried gourd or rattle containing estate brought their disputes before hit of the show.
dried seeds or pebbles that has a the marchioness to be resolved.
handle and is used as a percussion maritime
instrument often in pairs. mare adj
The band’s percussionist n / SmarETtIm /
accentuated the rhythm with a / SmB(T)rC / E name
maraca. L of or relating to navigation or
[has near homonym: moray] one of commerce on the sea.
maraschino several dark areas of considerable After Bob graduates, he plans to
n extent on the surface of either the join the Navy to study maritime
/ TmarESskGTnP / Moon or Mars. law.
It The Sea of Tranquility is perhaps
a sweet liqueur that is used as a the best-known mare on the Moon. marjoram
cocktail ingredient and in n
preserving cherries. margaritaceous / SmBrTjErEm /
Even though she’s a grown woman, adj L>F>E
Evelyn sometimes likes to make / TmBrgErEStCshEs / any of various usually fragrant and
herself a Shirley Temple with clear Gk > L > F > E aromatic mints that include several
soda and maraschino. having a satiny iridescence like that forms used as seasoning in
of pearl or mother-of-pearl : pearly. cookery.
maraud The tabletops at the diner have a Vance likes to add marjoram and
margaritaceous finish. cream cheese to his scrambled
marauding eggs.
v mariachi
/ mESrOdiN / n marmalade
F / TmBrGSBchG / n
roaming about and making F > Sp / SmBrmeTlCd /
irregular sudden small-scale a group of Mexican folk musicians Gk > L > Pg
attacks, raids, or incursions for the usually consisting of singers, a soft clear translucent jelly holding
sake of obtaining loot. guitarists, and a violinist. in suspension pieces or slices of
Outlaws were marauding in areas On weekends the mariachi fruit and fruit rind.
where the law was not well entertained diners at the Mexican Mom’s homemade marmalade on
established. restaurant. toast is always a great treat for
breakfast.
marble maricolous
Page 194 of 349

marmoset martial marzipan
n adj n
/ SmBrmETset / / SmBrshEl / / SmBrtsETpBn /
F>E L Ar > It > G
any of numerous small soft-furred [has homonyms: marshal, a confection made of crushed
South and Central American marshall] belonging or relating to almonds or almond paste, sugar,
monkeys with claws instead of an army or to military life. and egg whites that is often shaped
nails on all the digits except the Patrick Henry believed that the into various forms (as fruit or
great toe. only purpose of England’s martial animals).
The chisel-like incisors of the array in the colonies and their Marlene filled the candy dish with
marmoset are used for gouging seaports could be to force the marzipan.
trees to obtain gums and saps. colonists into submission.
mascara
marotte martinet
n n masonry
/ mESrBt / / SmBrtFnTet /
F name + Fcf F name masquerade
a pet idea or notion. one who lays stress on a rigid n
Katrina’s marotte is that she is adherence to the details of forms / TmaskESrCd /
really too good for life as a and methods. It > F
bookkeeper and should be a A true-born martinet never thinks a social gathering of persons
company vice-president. he is at all severe. wearing covers on their faces and
often fantastic costumes especially
marplot martinetish to impersonate characters from
adj history or legend.
marriageable / TmBrtFnSeZish / Todd and Sheila wore Conehead
F name + Ecf costumes to the masquerade.
marshmallow like or characteristic of a person
n who lays stress on a rigid massacre
/ SmBrshTmelP / adherence to the details of forms n
E and methods. / SmasDkE(r) /
a confection made from corn syrup, Though all the students disliked F
sugar, albumen, and gelatin, beaten Mr. Wall’s martinetish attitude, the act or instance of killing a
to a light creamy consistency, and most of them thought he was an considerable number of human
usually rolled in powdered sugar excellent teacher. beings or animals.
when partly dry. The massacre of buffalo is a
Burt toasted a marshmallow and martyr regrettable part of the history of the
put it between layers of graham n West.
crackers and chocolate squares. / SmBrZEr /
Gk massage
marsupial one who voluntarily suffers death
n as the penalty of witnessing to and masseter
/ mBrSsVpGEl / refusing to renounce his or her n
Avestan? > Gk > L religion or a tenet, principle, or / mESsGZE(r) /
any of an order of mammals having practice belonging to it. Gk > L
a pouch for carrying the young and St. Stephen, who was stoned to a large muscle that raises the lower
including kangaroos, wombats, death, is believed to have been the jaw and assists in chewing.
bandicoots, and opossums. first Christian martyr. Tracy argued that she was trying to
The common stereotype of a strengthen her masseter, but Mr.
marsupial is a female kangaroo martyrology Gold made her throw out her
with a large young one in her n chewing gum anyway.
pouch. / TmBrZESrBlEjG /
Gk
an official catalog of martyrs and
saints of the Roman Catholic
Church.
Keith bought an old martyrology at
the rummage sale.
Page 195 of 349

masseuse matelote mattock
n n n
/ maSsE(r)z / / SmaZFlTPt / / SmaZEk /
Ar > F + Fcf F L>E
a woman who practices massage a sauce made of wine, onions, a tool that combines features of an
and physiotherapy. seasonings, and fish stock. ax, adze, and pick and is used for
Delia spent an hour with the club’s Even though it is served with fish, a digging and chopping.
masseuse working out the kinks in matelote often contains red wine. It took Mark three hours of hard
her back. work with a mattock and shovel to
mathematician dig up the tree stump.
massif
n mathematics mattress
/ maSsGf / n pl
F / TmathESmaZiks / maturescent
a block of Earth’s crust bounded by Gk
faults or flexures and displaced as a a science that deals with the matutinal
unit without internal change. relationship and symbolism of
In the late 13th century a roadway numbers and magnitudes and that matutine
was opened over the St. Gotthard includes quantitative operations adj
massif in Switzerland. and the solution of quantitative / SmachETtIn /
problems. L
mastiff Jill’s favorite subject in school is of a star : rising in or just before the
n mathematics. dawn.
/ SmastDf / For centuries those who live
L>F>E matinee outdoors have used matutine stars
a very large powerful deep-chested n as a kind of alarm clock.
smooth-coated dog of a very old / TmatFnSC /
breed used chiefly as a watchdog L>F maudlin
and guard dog. a performance of a production (as a adj
A big brown mastiff stood play, opera, film) or the / SmOdlDn /
motionless behind the gate. presentation of a concert or Biblical Gk name > L > F > E
sometimes the holding of some tearfully or weakly emotional :
mastodon other event in the afternoon or effusively sentimental.
n occasionally in the morning or at Brian allowed himself to become
/ SmastETdBn / midnight. maudlin only on St. Patrick’s Day.
L The English class attended a
someone or something of gigantic matinee of Our Town at the local maudlinism
size or unusually large size : giant. playhouse.
Mrs. Campbell’s automobile mausoleum
collection ranges from a tiny two- matriarch
seater to an antique mastodon. mauve
matriarchal n
mastoiditis / SmOv /
n matriculant L>F
/ TmaTstOiSdIZDs / a strong purple with a bluish cast.
Gk > L matriculation Karen has tired of her bedroom of
inflammation of the process of the mauve and blue.
temporal bone behind the ear. matrimony
Amy’s doctor treated her n maverick
mastoiditis immediately so that it / SmatrETmPnG / n
wouldn’t cause any permanent L+L / Smav(E)rik /
hearing damage. the union of man and woman as Amer name
husband and wife : marriage. a member of any group who refuses
matelot The Las Vegas chapel specialized to conform and who takes an
in instant matrimony. unorthodox stand.
The rest of the teachers considered
matrix Ms. Thorne to be a maverick
because she invited her students to
call her by her first name.
Page 196 of 349

mawkish mealymouthed mediate
adj v
mawkishly / SmGlGTmaULd / / SmGdGTCt /
adv E+E L
/ SmOkishlG / tending to cloak thoughts, ideas, or interpose between parties in order
ON > E intents by the use of obscure or to reconcile them or to interpret
in a cloying or sickly sentimental devious language. them to each other.
manner. All of Judy’s friends saw through The envoy attempted to mediate
During a mawkishly romantic her mealymouthed explanation. between the warring factions.
scene in the movie, Ted got up to
get some popcorn. meandrous medicinal
adj
maxim / mGSandrEs / medicine
n Gk geog name n
/ SmaksDm / winding, flexuous, rambling. / SmedEsDn /
L Over thousands of years the river L
a saying of proverbial nature. had cut a meandrous channel the science and art dealing with the
“The early bird gets the worm” is through the plain. maintenance of health and the
Toni’s favorite maxim. prevention, alleviation, or cure of
measles disease.
mayhem n pl Campbell knows that she would
n / SmGzElz / like to one day pursue a career in
/ SmCThem / E the field of medicine.
AF > E a contagious disease characterized
willful and permanent crippling, by red spots. medicolegal
mutilation, or disfigurement of any Most doctors recommend that
part of another’s body. children be vaccinated against mediocre
The victim was so badly disfigured measles, mumps, and rubella. adj
that the assailant was charged with / TmGdGSPkE(r) /
felony mayhem. measurable L
of but a moderate or low degree of
mayonnaise mecometer quality.
n Jill’s grades were mediocre until
/ SmCETnCz / medallion she started wearing glasses.
geog name? > F n
a semisolid dressing made by / mDSdalyEn / Mediterranean
emulsifying a mixture of raw eggs L > It > F adj
or egg yolks, vegetable oil, and a large medal (as for a memorial / TmedEtESrCnGEn /
vinegar or lemon juice usually purpose). L
together with salt and condiments. Charise bought a World War II of, relating to, characteristic of, or
Helga wouldn’t eat a roast beef medallion on eBay. situated near the Mediterranean
sandwich without mayonnaise. Sea.
medallionist The Mediterranean island of Malta
mayoralty has been the location for the
n meddlesome filming of several movies.
/ SmCErEltG / adj
L>F>E / SmedFlsEm / medulla
the term of office as the chief L>F>E n
executive or nominal head of a city officiously intrusive. / mDSdElE /
or borough. Her landlady’s meddlesome L
His opponent’s television manner annoyed Hatty so much a posterior portion of the brain.
commercial made the point that that she moved out. The medulla governs various
Henry Vermillion had involuntary vital functions such as
accomplished little during his respiration.
mayoralty.
meemies
meadow
meerschaum
Page 197 of 349

megacephalic melba mellow
n adj
megalomaniac / SmelbE / / Sme(T)lP /
n Australian name E
/ TmegElOSmCnGTak / fruit served with ice cream, [has homonym: melo] relaxed and
Gk raspberry sauce, and whipped at ease : pleasantly convivial.
one affected with or exhibiting an cream. The after-dinner crowd enjoyed
excessive enthusiasm for doing The peach melba was served in a listening to the mellow, laid-back
great or grandiose things. crystal goblet. singer.
The candidate decried his opponent
as a publicity-seeking melee melodrama
megalomaniac. n n
/ SmC(T)lC / / SmelETdrBmE /
megalopolis F Gk > L > F
n [has homonyms: Malay, mele] a a play characterized by extravagant
/ TmegESlBpElDs / fight or contest between individuals theatricality, subordination of
Gk mingled in a confused mass : a characterization to plot, and
a very large city. confused struggle. predominance of physical action.
Without community growth The soccer match turned into a George was put off by the opera’s
guidelines, a moderately sized city melee after angry fans stormed the melodrama but was enthralled by
could become a megalopolis like field. the beauty of the music.
Los Angeles in just a few decades.
melitensis melophonic
megaphone adj
/ TmelESten(t)sDs / memoir
megaseism L geog name n
n of, derived from, or caused by a / SmemTwBr /
/ SmegETsIzEm / particular bacterium of the genus L>F
Gk + Gk Brucella. a history or narrative composed
a violent earthquake. Clyde’s melitensis fever was from or stressing personal
A nuclear bomb can have effects reduced by antibiotics. experience and acquaintance with
far worse than those of a the events, scenes, or persons
megaseism. mellifluous described.
adj The memoir of Burton Smith was
megohmmeter / meSliflEwEs / published last year.
n L
/ SmeTgPmTmGZE(r) / sweetly flowing : smooth, honeyed. memorabilia
Gk + G name + Gk The soprano’s mellifluous voice n pl
an instrument for the measurement lulled Frank to sleep. / TmemErESbilGE /
of large electrical resistances. L
Professor Allen designed a mellisonant things remarkable and worthy of
laboratory session to acquaint adj remembrance or record.
students with the use of the / meSlisFnEnt / The memorabilia in the hall of fame
megohmmeter. L+L traced the history of basketball
pleasing to the ear. from its beginning in 1891.
melancholia Tonia’s mellisonant voice never
failed to put her little sister to memoriter
melancholy sleep. adv
adj / mDSmOrETte(E)r /
/ SmelEnTkBlG / mellophone L
Gk > L > F > E by or from memory : by heart.
depressed in spirits : mournful. Much to her surprise, Sue was able
The melancholy chirp of a cricket to recite the soliloquy that 20 years
was the only sign of life near him. ago she had learned memoriter.
memory
menace
Page 198 of 349

menagerie meningitis mentor
n n n
/ mDSnaj(E)rG / / TmenDnSjIZDs / / SmenTtO(E)r /
F Gk > L Gk name
a collection of wild or foreign a disease in which microorganisms teacher, tutor, coach.
animals in cages or enclosures. cause inflammation of the After Helen won the spelling
The eccentric billionaire’s membranes that envelop the brain competition, she said that her
menagerie includes two pandas and and spinal cord. mother was her mentor.
a white rhino. Trudy had meningitis when she was
seven. mephitis
mendacious n
meniscus / mDSfIZDs /
mendicancy n OScan > L
n / mDSniskEs / a noxious, pestilential, or foul
/ SmendDkEnsG / Gk > L exhalation from the earth.
L the curved upper surface of a liquid Ivy suspected she was approaching
the practice or act of begging. column. the geyser when she smelled a
Panhandlers became so aggressive Because mercury sticks to itself strong mephitis.
in the city that its voters demanded better than to other substances, its
legal enactments against meniscus is convex, or rounded mercantilism
mendicancy. upward. n
/ SmErkEnTtGTlizEm /
mendicant menorah L > It > F + Ecf
n n devotion to commercial enterprise.
/ SmendDkEnt / / mESnPrE / The turn of the century saw a boom
L Heb in mercantilism.
one who begs; especially : one who a candelabrum with nine
lives by begging. candlesticks used in the celebration mercenarily
The mendicant on the street corner of Hanukkah. adv
once had a high-paying job. Stuart put the candles in the / TmErsFnSerElG /
menorah just before the ceremony. L + Ecff
menehune in a manner showing conspicuous
n mentality lust for money.
/ TmenEShVnG / n Being mercenarily inclined, Joel
Hawaiian / menStalEZG / refused to work for just the
a small mythical Polynesian being L minimum wage.
living in the mountains and intellectual power or capacity :
working at night as a stone builder. learning ability. mercenary
The Hawaiian folklorist told the The mentality of dolphins is greater adj
tale of a stone temple built than that of sharks. / SmErsFnTerG /
overnight by a menehune. L
menthol showing conspicuous lust for
menial n money : based on or marked by
adj / SmenTthOl / greed.
/ SmGnGEl / L>G No one in the family knows where
L>E an alcohol that occurs naturally in Antonio gets his mercenary
of, relating to, or being work not peppermint oil and Japanese mint tendencies.
requiring special skill or not calling oil and can be made synthetically.
into play the higher intellectual Menthol is used in medicines to mercurial
powers and often regarded as relieve pain, itching, and nasal adj
lacking dignity, status, or interest. congestion. / TmErSkyUrGEl /
Viewed by some office workers as a L
menial task, making coffee can be characterized by rapid and
quite an art. unpredictable changeableness or by
quick-wittedness : sprightly,
temperamental, volatile.
Christopher’s mercurial twists of
temperament were a trial to his
mother.
Page 199 of 349

merely merotomize metallurgist
adv v n
/ Smi(E)rlG / / mESrBZETmIz / / SmeZFlTErjDst /
L > E + Ecf Gk + Ecf Gk
no more than : barely, only. divide into parts. a specialist in the study of the
Joseph was merely pretending to be In tomorrow’s biology class Jan structure and properties of metals.
asleep. will merotomize a frog to study its Theobald hired a metallurgist to
anatomy. evaluate the ore deposits on his
merganser ranch.
n merriment
/ mErSgan(t)sEr / metamorphosis
L meshummad n
any of various fish-eating diving / TmeZESmO(r)fEsDs /
ducks with a slender bill and mesmerize Gk > L
usually a crested head. change of physical form or
Many people consider the red- mesoscale substance that takes place during an
breasted merganser one of the most adj insect’s life as it matures.
beautiful ducks. / SmezPTskCl / Complete metamorphosis is
Gk > L + ON > E characteristic of beetles, butterflies
meridian of or relating to a meteorological and moths, flies, and wasps.
n phenomenon approximately 1 to
/ mDSridGEn / 100 kilometers in horizontal extent. metaphor
F>E Unlike a blizzard, which can n
a great circle of the celestial sphere blanket a dozen states for days, / SmeZETfO(E)r /
passing through its poles and the mesoscale weather covers only a Gk
zenith of a given place. small area and passes through an implied comparison in contrast
The apparent solar day is quickly. to the explicit comparison of the
measured by the interval of time simile.
between two successive passages of mesoseismal The poet used the image of a
the Sun across the observer’s adj drifting boat as a metaphor for the
celestial meridian. / TmezPSsIzmEl / troubled soul.
Gk
meringue of or relating to the center of an metaphrast
n area of earthquake disturbance. n
/ mESraN / The town in the mesoseismal area / SmeZETfrast /
F suffered the most damage from the Gk
[has near homonym: marang] a earthquake. translator; specifically : one who
mixture of beaten egg whites and turns verse into a different meter or
powdered sugar baked at low metachrosis prose into verse.
temperature and used as a topping n In translating the epic poem, Elliott
(as on pies and puddings). / TmeZESkrPsDs / consulted a well-known
Thelma scraped the meringue off Gk metaphrast.
her pie. the power of some animals (as
many fishes and reptiles) to change metastasize
mermaid color voluntarily by the expansion v
n of special pigment cells. / mDStastETsIz /
/ SmErTmCd / Metachrosis helps octopi blend Gk
E with their environments to avoid spread, as a disease-producing
a fabled marine creature having the being easy prey. agent, from the original site of
upper body of a woman and the disease to another part of the body.
lower body of a fish. metagnomy The oncology professor pointed on
As they sailed closer to what they the diagram to where the cancer
thought was the end of the world, metallurgical cells would metastasize next.
the sailors kept expecting to see a
mermaid.
mermithergate
Page 200 of 349

meteoroidal meuniere micrograph
adj n
/ TmGZGESrOidFl / meuse / SmIkrETgraf /
Gk + Ecf Gk + Gk
of or relating to meteors in orbit mezzanine a graphic reproduction of the image
around the Sun. n of an object formed by a
The many craters on the Moon are / SmezFnTGn / microscope.
the result of meteoroidal L > It > F The biology teacher showed the
bombardment. the lowest balcony in a theater. class a micrograph of a plant cell.
Melinda says that she enjoys the
methodical view from the mezzanine better micrurgy
than the view from the orchestra. n
meticulosity / SmI(T)krErjG /
n miasma Gk > ISV
/ mDTtikyESlBsEZG / n the practice of using minute tools in
L + Ecf / mISazmE / a magnified field.
the quality or state of being Gk > L Lorraine’s excellence at micrurgy
extremely painstaking in the [Note: Could be confused with helped her greatly with her model
consideration or treatment of miasm.] a vaporous exhalation (as making.
details. of a marshy region or of rotting
The gallery visitor marveled at the matter) formerly believed to midgetism
artist’s meticulosity in depicting contain a substance causing n
details so realistically. disease. / SmijDZTizEm /
Eloise couldn’t wait to escape from E + Ecf
metonymy the miasma that had settled over the state of being an unusually
n the entire swamp. small creature or thing.
/ mDStBnEmG / In the art of bonsai, midgetism is
Gk Micawber highly valued.
a figure of speech that consists in n
using the name of one thing for that / mDSkObE(r) / midinette
of something else with which it is E literary name n
associated (as in “spent the evening [has near homonym: macabre] an / TmidFnSet /
reading Shakespeare”). improvident person who lives in F
The metonymy “threads” for expectation of an upturn in his a Parisian shopgirl.
clothes has recently come back into fortunes. In the novel, Marie was a midinette
popular slang. Jenny was careful not to live like a who worked as a seamstress during
Micawber just because she the 1890s.
metoposcopy expected to receive a fellowship.
n midriff
/ TmeZESpBskEpG / microcosm n
Gk n / SmiTdrif /
the art of reading character or / SmIkrETkBzEm / E
telling fortunes from the markings Gk the midregion of the human torso;
of the forehead. a miniature universe. especially : its external ventral
Gerald has a high, bumpy forehead Kate could spend hours watching aspect.
that would provide a truly the microcosm of her ant farm. According to the dress code, any
interesting study in metoposcopy. student coming to school with an
microfiche exposed midriff will be sent home.
metronome n
n / SmIkrPTfGsh / mien
/ SmetrETnPm / F n
Gk a sheet of film containing several / SmGn /
an instrument that emits an audible rows of photographic records on a L>F>E
repetitive tap regulated to mark reduced scale that are enlarged for [has homonym: mean] the air or
rhythm (as for music or marching). reading or viewing. bearing of a person.
Martina used a metronome to Norma examined a microfiche of Fame and fortune did not alter
hypnotize her cat. old newspaper pages while doing Cindy’s humble mien.
research at the library.
mettwurst
Page 201 of 349

mignonette millennium minacious
n n adj
/ TminyESnet / / mDSlenGEm / / mDSnCshEs /
F L L
an annual plant native to North a period of 1,000 years. of a menacing or threatening
Africa that has long racemes of In his “Four Freedoms” speech, character.
fragrant yellow or greenish white Franklin D. Roosevelt stressed that Though the butler seemed
flowers. his vision was not that of a distant minacious, he was not the culprit.
Lord Bateman sent seeds of millennium.
mignonette to England in 1742 and minaret
called it mignonette, although it millinery
was not known by that name in minatory
France at the time. millionaire adj
/ SminETtPrG /
migraine mimeograph L
n v having a menacing quality :
/ SmITgrCn / / SmimGETgraf / expressive of or conveying a threat.
Gk > L > F Gk + Gk In a minatory tone, Mrs. Sampson
a condition marked by recurrent copy with a duplicator that consists asked the boys what they planned
severe headache often with nausea of a frame in which the stencil is to do about her broken window.
and vomiting. stretched and an inking roller for
Karen’s doctor found out that her pressing ink through the porous minestrone
migraine was due to a food allergy. lines of the stencil onto paper. n
Kerry was puzzled when her / TminESstrPnG /
mikado grandmother talked of how she L > It
n used to mimeograph her boss’s a rich thick vegetable soup with
/ mESkB(T)dP / company memos. dried beans, macaroni, vermicelli,
Jpn or similar ingredients sometimes
an emperor of Japan. mimic topped with grated cheese.
The Mikado is one of Gilbert and v Steve crumbled oyster crackers into
Sullivan’s best-loved operettas. / Smimik / his minestrone.
Gk > L
milacre copy or imitate very closely miniascape
especially in external n
milchig characteristics (as voice, gesture, or / SminGETskCp /
adj manner). L > It > L
/ SmilKik / Christie has learned to mimic a dish garden made with dry or
G > Yiddish Grandma so well on the telephone other plant materials that do not
made of or derived from milk or that she can fool the whole family. require water.
dairy products. A miniascape makes an interesting
The dairy association posted on its mimicry host or hostess gift.
web site several menus for milchig
meals. mimosa miniature
n adj
mildewed / mDSmPsE / / Smin(G)ETchU(E)r /
L L > It
militancy a tree or shrub that is native to being or represented on a small
tropical and warm regions and that scale.
militia has usually bipinnate leaves and The miniature productions of
n globular heads of small pink or architects’ dream houses were all
/ mDSlishE / white flowers. made out of children’s building
L Deanna planted a mimosa in the blocks.
a reserve unit of the armed forces. front yard.
Captain Weston’s military career miniaturize
began when he entered his county’s
militia.
millennialism
Page 202 of 349

minimization mirador mischief
n n n
/ TminEmDSzCshEn / / SmirETdP(E)r / / Smis(h)chDf /
L + Ecff L > Catal > Sp F>E
the action or process of reducing to a turret or a bay window or action or conduct that annoys or
the smallest possible number, enclosed balcony designed to irritates without causing or
degree, or extent. command an extensive outlook— meaning to cause serious harm.
The credit counselor told Shanika used chiefly of Spanish Hearing the puppy’s thumping and
that the first step should be the architecture. barking, Erica went to investigate
minimization of her interest The castle’s mirador offered a the mischief he was creating.
payments. commanding view of the sea.
mischievous
minor mirage
n miscible
/ SmInE(r) / Miranda adj
L adj / SmisEbEl /
[has homonym: miner] a person / mDSrandE / L
under full age or majority : one American name [Note: Pronouncer should provide
who has not attained the age at of, relating to, or being the legal definition of this word.] capable of
which full civil rights are accorded. rights of an arrested person to have being mixed in any ratio without
Because Randy is a minor, the an attorney and to remain silent so separation of two phases—used
airline will not allow him to take as to avoid self-incrimination. especially of fluids.
the red-eye flight unaccompanied. At the time of arrest, each person Oil and kerosene are miscible, but
must be advised of his Miranda carbon tetrachloride and water are
minstrel rights. not.
minuend mirrored miscreant

n v n
/ SminyETwend / / SmirE(r)d / / SmiskrHEnt /
L L > F > E + Ecf L>F>E
a quantity in mathematics from reflected. one who behaves criminally or
which another quantity is to be The moonlight was mirrored in the viciously.
subtracted. smooth surface of the pond. Some miscreant dumped a bucket
In the equation 7 – 5 = 2, 7 is the of paint in Herb’s convertible.
minuend. misanthropic
adj misdemeanor
minuscular / TmisFnSthrBpik / n
adj Gk + Ecf / TmisdDSmGnE(r) /
/ mDSnEskyElE(r) / marked by a hatred or contempt for E+L>F>E
L humankind. a crime less than a felony.
very small in size or importance. The moral corruption the The trespasser was arrested and
A minuscular speck of dirt on policeman witnessed caused him to charged with a misdemeanor.
Alison’s frock was enough to become a misanthropic cynic.
infuriate her. miserable
miscellanea adj
minutia n pl / Smiz(E)rEbEl /
/ TmisESlCnGE / L
mirabelle L marked by extreme discomfort or
n a collection of assorted objects. unhappiness.
/ SmirETbel / Among the miscellanea on Ernie’s The refugees struggled for survival
F bookshelf were five textbooks on in the miserable mountainside
the fruit of a small hardy European world history and a complete set of encampment.
plum tree used especially for the works of Shakespeare.
preserves and for making a liqueur. misericordia
Joey ate a stewed mirabelle as he miscellaneous
helped his grandmother make jam. misfeasance
miscellany
Page 203 of 349

misnomer misshapen misuse
n adj v
/ mDSsnPmE(r) / / mis(h)shCpEn / / misSyVz /
L>F>E E Ecf + L > F > E
an incorrect designation or term. having an ugly or deformed shape. employ for a wrong or improper
The name “Greenland” is a The misshapen pumpkin made a purpose.
misnomer because an icecap covers fierce-looking jack-o’-lantern. Employees who misuse their
most of the island. Internet connection at work will be
missile fired.
misogynistic n
adj / SmisEl / mitigate
/ mDTsBjESnistik / L v
Gk [has homonym: missal] a weapon / SmiZETgCt /
relating to or given to a hatred of or other object thrown or projected. L
women. Ichabod endeavored to dodge the make less severe, cruel, intense,
The soprano complained that only horrible missile, but too late. painful.
a critic with misogynistic cruelty The general interceded to mitigate
could have written the review. missionary the soldier’s punishment.
misogyny mistassini mitigative

n adj
misoneism / TmistESsGnG / / SmiZETgCZiv /
n Canadian geog name L
/ TmisESnGTizEm / a dwarf primrose of northern and tending to make less severe :
Gk + Gk alpine America. alleviating.
a hatred or intolerance of Ava saw a mistassini growing in a Mariko’s herbal tea had a
something new or changed. rock crevice. mitigative effect on Raga’s
Because of his mom’s misoneism, headache.
Brian still does not have a mistigris
computer in his home. n mitochondrion
/ SmistGTgris / n
misopedist F / TmIZESkBndrGEn /
n a joker or blank card that the holder Gk + Gk
/ TmisESpGdDst / can play as any card. any of various round or long
L + Ecf Darryl won the hand using a cellular organelles that are found
one who hates children. mistigris and three queens for four outside the nucleus, produce energy
W. C. Fields was a famed of a kind. for the cell through cellular
misopedist. respiration, and are rich in fats,
mistletoe proteins, and enzymes.
misprision n Gabrielle easily found the
n / SmisElTtP / mitochondrion in the image
/ mDSsprizhEn / E projected by the electron
L>F>E any of various American plants of microscope.
the active or passive concealment the genus Phoradendron that grow
of treason or felony from the on deciduous trees. mitrailleuse
prosecuting authorities by one not Lance earned extra Christmas
guilty of those crimes. money selling mistletoe at the mall. mittimus
Congressman Walters was charged n
with misprision of felony in the mistral / SmiZEmEs /
election fraud. n L
/ SmistrEl / a warrant committing the person
L > OProv > F specified to prison.
a violent cold dry northerly wind of In this state no person can be
the Mediterranean provinces of committed to a correctional facility
France. without a mittimus from a judge.
In Provence, the mistral sometimes
dries out the vines and grapes. mixology
mneme
Page 204 of 349

mnemonic mohair momentum
n n
mnestic / SmPTha(a)(E)r / / mPSmentEm /
adj Ar > It > E L
/ Snestik / any of various fabrics or yarns a property of a moving body that
Gk made wholly or in part of the hair determines the length of time
of or relating to memory or the of the Angora goat. required to bring it to rest when
persistent effect of past experience For her birthday Linda got a under the action of a constant force
of the individual. matching scarf and sweater, both or moment.
Granny spends much of her time made of mohair. The snowball gained momentum as
reminiscing and performing other it rolled down the hill.
mnestic activities. moiety
n monadnock
mocha / SmOiEZG / n
n L>F>E / mESnadTnBk /
/ SmPkE / a share paid by the government to New Hampshire geog name
Arabian geog name an informer out of duties and a hill or mountain of resistant rock
a flavoring made of a strong coffee penalties collected because of the surmounting an eroded plain.
infusion or of a mixture of cocoa or individual’s help. The familiar shape of the
chocolate with coffee. The whistleblower received a monadnock was a landmark for
Samantha detected a hint of mocha moiety of the large fine imposed travelers.
in her hot chocolate. upon his employer for supplying
faulty engine parts to the military. monarch
moderate
adj molasses monastery
/ SmBd(E)rDt / n n
L>E / mESlasDz / / SmBnETsterG /
neither small nor large. L > Pg G>L>E
Sally’s room was of moderate size, the thick dark to light brown syrup a house of religious retirement or of
but her sister’s was quite small. that is separated from raw sugar in seclusion from the world for
sugar manufacture. persons under religious vows.
modicum Mollie always adds molasses to Last fall Stan attended a retreat at
n beans before baking them. a monastery near Bardstown,
/ SmBdEkEm / Kentucky.
L>F molecule
a small portion : a limited quantity monetarily
or amount. molecules adv
Bernie displayed not even a / TmBnESterElG /
modicum of modesty as he bragged molinary L + Ecf
about his hole in one. adj with respect to money.
/ SmBlETnerG / Bud said he wasn’t broke, just
modificative L monetarily deficient.
adj of or relating to a mill or the
/ SmBdEfETkCZiv / process of grinding. monetary
L + Ecf Elsworth’s firm specializes in the adj
serving to make minor changes in manufacture of molinary / SmBnETterG /
the form or structure of. equipment. L
To thicken the runny sauce, Hester of or relating to money or to the
used flour as the modificative mollify instrumentalities and organizations
ingredient. by which money is supplied to the
momentousness economy.
modiste n So many Americans are active
/ mPSmentEsnDs / investors that even a slight change
L>F>E in interest rates can have serious
the quality or state of being very monetary repercussions.
important.
An orchestra fanfare accentuated
the momentousness of the occasion.
Page 205 of 349

mongoose mononucleosis montage
n n n
/ SmBNTgVs / / TmBnPTn(y)VklGSPsDs / / mBnStBzh /
Dravidian? > Prakrit > Hindi Gk + L F
an agile keen-sighted grizzled an acute infectious disease an impressionistic sequence of
brown and black mammal of India associated with Epstein-Barr virus images introduced into a film or
that is about the size of a ferret and and characterized by fever, television program to develop a
feeds on snakes and rodents. swelling of the lymph nodes, and single theme, suggest a state of
The mongoose is an active, bold an increase in the number of mind, or bridge a time lapse.
predator. lymphocytes in the blood. The program’s opening credit
Morgan had to spend several weeks sequence is a montage of white
mongrel in bed after contracting beaches, swaying palm trees,
n mononucleosis. racing boats, and attractive sun
/ SmBNgrEl / worshipers.
E monopoly
an animal or plant resulting from moppet
the interbreeding of two or more monotonous
breeds or strains. adj moraine
Jeff’s dog is a friendly mongrel / mESnBtFnEs / n
named Mutt. Gk / mESrCn /
having no change or variety : F
monocle wearisomely uniform. an accumulation of earth and stones
n The lecturer’s monotonous tone put carried and finally deposited by a
/ SmBnDkEl / half the audience to sleep. glacier.
L A push moraine is carried ahead of
[has homonyms: monacal, monotony an advancing glacier, whereas a
monachal] an eyeglass for one eye. lateral moraine is deposited at the
The villain wore a tuxedo, a top monsoon side of a glacier as it moves.
hat, and a monocle. n
/ mBnSsVn / morass
monocoque Ar > Pg > D
a periodic wind especially in the moratorium
monolith Indian Ocean and in southern Asia. n
n The monsoon brought / TmOrEStPrGEm /
/ SmBnFlTith / thunderstorms that blanketed the L
Gk city with a dust cloud and then a suspension of activity : a
something resembling a single flooding rains. temporary ban on the use or
great stone. production of something.
Sir Larry is considered a pillar of monstrosity Environmentalists demanded a
strength by his friends and a n moratorium on the mining
hulking obstinate monolith by his / mBnzStrBsEZG / operation until its potential effects
enemies. L on the ecosystem could be
an object of terrifying size or force evaluated.
monomachy or complexity.
The atom bomb is the greatest morbid
monomaniacal monstrosity of the 20th century. adj
adj / SmOrbDd /
/ TmBnFmESnIEkEl / monstrous L
Gk + Gk + Ecf adj abnormally susceptible to or
relating to, characterized by, or / SmBnztrEs / characterized by gloomy or
affected with such concentration on L>F>E unwholesome feelings.
a single object or idea as to suggest having extraordinary and often The inventor was haunted by a
mental derangement. overwhelming size : unusually and morbid sense of guilt about the
Stuart’s obsession with racing cars unpleasantly huge. possible harmful effects of her
seems almost monomaniacal to his The tourists in South America were invention.
friends. terrified and sickened by the
monstrous flying cockroach.
Page 206 of 349

morbidezza morion mortar
n n n
/ TmO(r)bESdetsE / / SmPrGEn / / SmOrZEr /
L > It F L>F>E
an extreme delicacy and softness. a visorless high-crested helmet of something that binds or holds
The piano music had a certain Spanish origin worn by foot together.
morbidezza that required a delicate soldiers in the 16th and 17th Sam watched as the bricklayer
touch. centuries. expertly set the bricks into the
The conquistador was pictured hardening mortar.
morceau wearing a morion, with the brim
n forming high peaks at the front and mortarboard
/ mOrSsP / back. n
F / SmOrZErTbP(E)rd /
[Note: Could be confused with mormorando L>F>E+E
more so. Also, plural of word can adj an academic cap consisting of a
be similarly pronounced.] a short / TmO(r)mESrBn(T)dP / closely fitting headpiece with a
literary or musical piece. L > It broad flat projecting square top.
Natasha entertained the partygoers in a murmuring manner—used as a Lamont adjusted his mortarboard
with a lively morceau on the violin. direction in music. as he joined the procession to begin
At first Ralph thought his CD the commencement program.
mordacious player was broken, but then he
realized he was listening to a mortgage
mordancy mormorando passage. n
n / SmOrgij /
/ SmO(r)dFnsG / morose L>F>E
L>F adj a binding obligation.
a biting and caustic quality of style. / mESrPs / Sarah found a signed copy of the
The mordancy of the candidate’s L mortgage in Richard’s desk.
comments made her opponent marked by or expressive of gloom.
wince. The basketball team was morose mortuary
after losing in the state finals. adj
mores / SmO(r)chETwerG /
n pl Morpheus L
/ SmO(T)rCz / n of or relating to the burial of the
L / SmOrfGEs / dead.
[has homonym: morays] the fixed Gk Professor Habib is an expert in
customs or folkways of a particular something that induces or prolongs ancient mortuary rituals.
group which are morally binding sleep.
upon all members of the group and Tim cannot recall exactly what mosaic
necessary to its welfare and Morpheus caused Rip van Winkle
preservation. to sleep for 20 years. mosaicist
Some religious groups have n
developed a society of their own mortal / mPSzCEsDst /
with distinct and strict mores. adj L > It > F > E
/ SmOrZFl / a designer who creates surface
morigeration L decoration by inlaying small pieces
n destructive to life : causing or of variously colored material.
/ mETrijESrCshEn / capable of causing death. An expert mosaicist decorated the
L The diver’s cage would protect him altar of the new church.
servile obedience : obsequiousness. from receiving a mortal wound
The judge expected morigeration from a shark. mosque
from everyone in the courtroom. n
/ SmBsk /
Ar > Sp > It > F
an Islamic place of public religious
worship.
Visitors were required to remove
their shoes before entering the
mosque.
Page 207 of 349

mosquito mountebank mucilaginous
n n adj
/ mESskGZ(T)P / / SmaUntETbaNk / / TmyVsESlajEnEs /
L > Sp It L
any of numerous two-winged flies an entertainer (as a juggler or relating to or resembling a liquid
that have a rather narrow abdomen magician) employed by a quack to adhesive of low bonding strength.
and usually a long slender rigid attract a crowd. Billy’s mother told him to wash the
proboscis with which they puncture The charlatan used a mountebank mucilaginous remains of his peanut
the skin of animals to suck the to entice crowds into the tent. butter and jelly sandwich from his
blood. face and hands.
Dr. Walter Reed proved that the mourn
yellow fever virus is carried by the mufti
mosquito. moussaka n
n / SmEftG /
mosquitoey / mVSsBkE / Ar
Turkish > Gk civilian dress when worn by one in
mostaccioli a dish of ground meat (as lamb) military service.
n and sliced eggplant or potatoes The general ambled down the street
/ TmOstBtSchPlG / often topped with a seasoned sauce. unrecognized in mufti.
It Dimitrio’s restaurant serves the
a pasta in the form of a short tube best moussaka in the area. mugient
with oblique ends. adj
It was the usual banquet fare: mousse / SmyVjGEnt /
mostaccioli and roast beef. n L
/ SmVs / making a lowing sound : bellowing.
motley L>F In mid-April the mugient herds of
adj [has homonym: moose] a frothy cattle are turned out to pasture.
/ SmBtlG / dessert; especially : a dessert of
E sweetened and flavored whipped mugwump
composed of a haphazard and cream, or thin cream and gelatin, n
incongruous mixture of frozen without stirring. / SmETgwEmp /
heterogeneous elements. Michael ordered chocolate Natick
Each guest drew a gift from the hazelnut mousse for dessert, but one who is undecided or neutral (as
motley assortment in the grab bag. Vera ordered just coffee. in politics) often as a result of an
inability to make up one’s mind.
moulage mousseline William is too much a mugwump to
n ever realize his ambition to hold
/ mVSlBzh / mozambique elective office.
F
an impression (as of a tire mark or mozzarella mugwumpery
tooth print) made for use as n
evidence in a criminal / TmBtsESrelE / mulberry
investigation. It n
At the scene of the crime, detectives a moist white rubbery unsalted / SmElTberG /
were able to make a moulage of the cheese. Gk > L > F > E
tire marks left by the criminal’s Mozzarella is used in many Italian a tree or shrub that bears a fruit
car. foods. resembling a raspberry.
The Nelsons planted a mulberry in
mountain mucedine their backyard.
n
/ SmaUntFn / mucilage mulch
L>F
[Note: The definition provided is
not the one most commonly
associated with this word.] a vast
number or quantity : pile, slew.
Mrs. Johnson assigned her students
a mountain of homework that was
due the day after the holiday break.
Page 208 of 349

muliebral multitudinous murarium
adj adj n
/ TmyVlGSebrEl / / TmEltEStVdEnDs / / myVSra(a)rGEm /
L + Ecf L + Ecf L
of, relating to, or characteristic of existing in great numbers. a place for rearing mice or rats
women. Multitudinous varieties of under controlled conditions.
The artist captured the essence of wildflowers grow on Sand Research at the murarium resulted
muliebral beauty in his portrait of Mountain. in the initial claim that saccharine
Venus. consumption causes cancer.
mummery
mulligan n murenger
n / SmEmErG / n
/ SmElDgEn / F / SmyUrEnjE(r) /
E name a performance given by actors in a L>F>E
a free shot sometimes awarded a pantomime. one in charge of the wall of a town
golfer in nontournament play when Costumed actors performed a and its repairs.
the preceding shot has been poorly comic mummery in the school When city walls served as
played. auditorium. fortresses, the murenger was
Gordy took a mulligan after hitting responsible for the security of the
a “worm burner” on the first tee. mumps citizens.
n pl
mullion / SmEmps / murmur
imit v
multifarious an acute contagious viral disease / SmErmEr /
adj marked by fever and swelling of L
/ TmEltESfa(a)rGEs / the parotid gland. utter or give forth in low or
L Russell sympathized with his indistinct sounds or words.
having multiplicity : having great brother who was suffering with Mrs. Chambers reminded Dylan
diversity or variety. mumps, but couldn’t help but laugh not to murmur his introduction.
The multifarious activities at the at his swollen face.
Hands-On Museum make it a place murrain
that everyone can enjoy. municipal
adj musciform
multiplication / myVSnisEpEl / adj
n L / SmEsETfOrm /
/ TmEltEplDSkCshEn / of or relating to a primarily urban L
L political unit (as a town or city). resembling moss.
a mathematical operation Real estate taxes are set by the Rosa’s new hat has a musciform
commonly indicated by ab that municipal government. texture.
repeats b as many times as there are
units in a. municipally muscle
The fourth grade class was
learning the process of munificence musculature
multiplication of whole numbers. n n
/ myVSnifEsEn(t)s / / SmEskyElETchU(E)r /
multipotent L L
a giving or bestowing with the muscles of an animal that are
multitude extraordinary liberality : lavish related to each other and function
n generosity. together.
/ SmEltETtVd / Hazel’s uncle, known widely for his Dissection of the frog revealed its
L munificence, hosted an elaborate underlying musculature.
a great number : host. dinner for her bat mitzvah.
A multitude of reporters besieged
the plaintiff as she left the
courtroom.
Page 209 of 349

muse mutable myelitis
v adj n
/ SmyVz / / SmyVZEbEl / / TmIESlIZDs /
L>F>E L Gk > L
[has homonyms: meuse, mews] prone or liable to change. inflammation of the spinal cord or
become absorbed in thought. The weather in the foothills was of the bone marrow.
When he was a boy, Howard used extremely mutable due to the Myelitis is usually a result of a
to sit on the porch and muse on nearby mountains. viral infection such as
what he would do with his life. mononucleosis or mumps.
mutafacient
museum adj myelopathy
n / TmyVZESfCshEnt / n
/ myVSzGEm / L + L + Ecf / TmIESlBpEthG /
Gk > L capable of inducing a biological Gk
an institution devoted to the change in hereditary material. a disease or disorder of the spinal
procurement, care, study, and Botanists make use of mutafacient cord or the bone marrow.
display of objects of lasting interest chemicals to develop new strains of After the accident Ursula’s dog had
or value. plants. to be treated for myelopathy.
The National Air and Space
Museum is one of the components mutinous mynheer
of the Smithsonian Institution. n
mutton / mInShe(E)r /
muskmelon n D
n / SmEtFn / mister—used as a polite address to
/ SmEskTmelEn / Celt > F > E a Dutch gentleman.
Skt > Per > Gk > L > F > E + Gk > the flesh of a sheep that is used for The owner of the village bank was
L food. addressed as Mynheer Grauer.
the usually sweet odorous edible Ingrid purchased some mutton and
melon that is the fruit of a trailing pork chops from the butcher. myocarditis
or climbing Asiatic herbaceous n
vine. muumuu / TmIETkBrSdIZDs /
The muskmelon was one of the n Gk > L
foods that Columbus introduced to / SmVTmV / inflammation of the middle
the New World. Hawaiian muscular layer of the heart wall.
a loose dress with gay colors and A severe case of myocarditis could
muslin patterns, worn chiefly in Hawaii. result in heart failure.
n Pandora bought a red flowered
/ SmEzlDn / muumuu during her trip to Maui. myopia
Iraq geog name > Ar > It > F n
[has near homonym: Muslim] a myasthenia / mISPpGE /
plainwoven cotton fabric that is n Gk
used bleached or unbleached for / TmIEsSthGnGE / nearsightedness.
sheeting, embroidery, or other Gk > L Kyle’s myopia was first apparent
purposes. muscular debility. when he had trouble reading what
The simple look of tab curtains Keith was informed that his was on the chalkboard at school.
made of unbleached muslin is myasthenia was brought on by
perfect for Barbara’s den. overexertion and would disappear myriads
with rest. n pl
mussitation / SmirGEdz /
n mycophagous Gk
/ TmEsEStCshEn / adj immense numbers.
L / mISkBfDgEs / The plain was covered with
movement of the lips as if in Gk myriads of insects swarming and
speech but without accompanying feeding on fungi. devouring all the vegetation.
sound. Because they are mycophagous,
The cameras picked up the ladybugs are good for gardens.
speller’s mussitation as she
pondered the word.
Page 210 of 349

myringitis mystique naiad
n n n
/ TmirEnSjIZDs / / miSstGk / / SnCEd /
Gk > L Gk > L > F Gk
inflammation of the tympanic the special esoteric skill or one of the nymphs believed by the
membrane. mysterious faculty essential in a ancient Greeks and Romans to live
Dr. Croke explained that Amy’s calling or activity. in and give life to lakes, rivers,
myringitis was caused by a The mystique of computer springs, and fountains.
bacterial infection in her ear. programming is completely foreign Glenda came upon a statue of a
to Jacqueline. naiad by the lake.
myrmecologist
n mythologem naiant
/ TmErmESkBlEjDst /
Gk mythomania nainsook
a specialist in the scientific study of n
ants. nabob / SnCnTsUk /
The myrmecologist told the n Skt > Hindi
reporter that his interest in ants / SnCTbBb / a soft lightweight cotton fabric in
began when he had been given an Ar > Hindi plain weave and various finishes
ant farm at the age of seven. man of great wealth. that is used especially for clothing
The Hollywood nabob rarely and curtains.
myrmecology traveled without his personal chef, Janet’s new summer blouse is made
n secretary, and masseur. of nainsook.
/ TmErmESkBlEjG /
Gk nacelle naology
a scientific study of ants. n n
Receiving an ant farm for / nESsel / / nCSBlEjG /
Christmas was the beginning of L>F Gk
Art’s interest in myrmecology. an enclosed shelter on an aircraft a study of sacred edifices.
for an engine or sometimes for the With her background in
myrmidon crew. architecture and naology, Shauna
n The cramped, stifling nacelle gave is just the right person to help
/ SmErmETdBn / Rico an attack of claustrophobia. restore the old cathedral.
Gk
a follower or subordinate who Naderism napalm
unquestioningly or pitilessly n v
executes orders : hireling. / SnCdETrizEm / / SnCTpBm /
Although the mayor always speaks American name Iranian > Gk > L + L > F
civilly to everyone, his myrmidon named after consumer advocate attack with bombs made with a
can be ruthless in criticizing Ralph Nader, the promotion of highly flammable jellied fuel
opponents. consumer interests especially by composed of gasoline and a
public outcry against dangerous or mixture of aluminum soaps as a
myrrh defective goods. thickener.
n The policy of Naderism is named The decision to napalm enemy
/ SmEr / for an outspoken consumer territory had more ramifications
Semitic > Gk > L > E advocate. than the intended destruction of
a yellow to reddish brown aromatic vegetation.
bitter gum resin that is obtained nadir
from various trees of East Africa n naprapathy
and Arabia. / SnCdE(r) / n
In medieval Europe myrrh was rare Ar > F > E / nESprapEthG /
and precious. the point of the celestial sphere that Czech + Gk > E
is directly opposite the zenith and a therapeutic system of drugless
mysticity vertically downward from the treatment by manipulation of the
observer. ligaments and connective tissues.
There was no way for Amos to see Norma relied on naprapathy to
the Moon, since it was at the nadir. relieve her pain after she sprained
her back.
Page 211 of 349

narcissus narrow nasturtium
n adj n
/ nBrSsisEs / / Sna(T)rP / / nESstErshEm /
Gk > L E L
any plant of the genus Narcissus of not possessing usual or expected any of several herbs having showy
which the flowers have a short width. variously colored spurred flowers.
corona and are usually borne The sidewalk was too narrow for The nasturtium will add color to a
separately. the three friends to walk side by drab landscape design.
The common daffodil is a type of side.
narcissus. natal
narthex
narcoleptic n natator
adj / SnBrTtheks /
/ TnBrkESleptik / Semitic? > Gk natatorium
Gk a vestibule leading to the nave of a n
of, relating to, or affected with a church. / TnCZEStPrGEm /
transient compulsive tendency to The bridal party lined up in the L
attacks of deep sleep usually of narthex and waited for the cue to a place for swimming; especially :
unknown causes. proceed down the church’s center an indoor swimming pool.
Steve becomes narcoleptic aisle. William Randolph Hearst built an
whenever he is under great stress. ostentatious natatorium at his
nasal California mansion.
narcoticism adj
n / SnCzEl / naupathia
/ nBrSkBZETsizEm / L n
Gk of or relating to the nose. / nOSpathGE /
addiction to habit-forming drugs. Juno’s nasal inflammation caused Gk
The police sergeant lectured considerable discomfort and made seasickness.
Zakia’s class about the dangers of it hard for her to breathe. Several spells of naupathia made
narcoticism. Joni’s cruise an experience she
nascency hopes never to repeat.
naricorn n
n / SnasFnsG / nausea
/ Sna(a)rETkOrn / L n
L the condition or process of being / SnOshE /
the horny covering protecting the born or of beginning to exist. Gk > L
nostrils of albatrosses and some The nascency of the novel as a a feeling of discomfort in the
other birds. literary form can be traced to 18th- stomach usually associated with an
The naricorn is an irregularly century England. urge to vomit.
convoluted little scroll, very thin A bout of nausea kept Denise from
and delicate in texture. nascent enjoying the ferry ride.
adj
narrate / SnCsFnt / nauseate
v L
/ SnaTrCt / undergoing the process of being nauseous
L born : beginning to exist. adj
tell or recite the happenings of (a The Boston Tea Party revealed / SnOshEs /
story). nascent revolutionary tendencies L
Jacob volunteered to narrate the among the American colonists. causing a sensation of discomfort
slide show. in the stomach and an urge to
nastaliq vomit.
narrative The smell emanating from the
adj swamp was nauseous.
/ SnarEZiv /
L nautical
having the form of a story.
A ballad is a poem that has several
distinct characteristics, including a
strong narrative element.
Page 212 of 349

nautilus nectarine nemesis
n n n
/ SnOZFlEs / / SnektETrGn / / SnemEsDs /
Gk > L Gk > L+Ecf Gk
any of several cephalopod mollusks a peach that has a smooth-skinned a formidable and usually victorious
of the southern Pacific and Indian fruit. rival or opponent.
oceans that produce a spiral Jason prefers a nectarine to a The Tigers were defeated by the
chambered shell. common peach. first-rate pitching of their old
Frank keeps a polished shell of a nemesis.
nautilus in his bookcase. nefarious
adj nemoral
nebula / nDSfa(a)rGEs / adj
n L / Snem(E)rEl /
/ SnebyElE / heinously or impiously wicked : L
L detestable. of, relating to, or inhabiting a wood
any of many immense bodies of The murderer's crimes were or grove.
highly rarified gas or dust in considered so nefarious that he was Doris collected a basketful of
interstellar space. sentenced to life imprisonment nemoral mushrooms.
The astronomer identified the without parole.
Horsehead Nebula on the chart. nenuphar
negative n
nebulous / SnenyETfBr /
adj neglect Skt > Per > Ar > L
/ SnebyElEs / water lily; especially : Egyptian
L negligent lotus.
vaguely defined, poorly grasped, or The nenuphar is a common motif in
dimly realized. negotiable Egyptian art.
Melissa’s nebulous fears about the adj
future interfered with her / nDSgPsh(G)EbEl / neolalia
enjoyment of the present. L n
that can be converted into cash or / TnGPSlClGE /
necessary the equivalent value. Gk
Leah wondered if the old bills she speech especially of a psychotic
necklace found in the trunk were still that includes words that are new
negotiable. and meaningless to the hearer.
neckwear The doctor recorded the patient’s
n negotiate neolalia for further study.
/ SnekTwa(a)r /
E negotiator neologism
articles of clothing worn about the n
neck. negus / nGSBlETjizEm /
Greta thinks warm neckwear is the Gk > F
key to avoiding a cold. neigh a new word, usage, or expression.
Nelson encountered a neologism in
necromancy nematocyst almost every paragraph of the
n n computer article.
/ SnekrETman(t)sG / / nDSmaZETsist /
Gk > L > F > E Gk + Gk neomenia
the art or practice of magically one of the minute stinging organs
conjuring up the souls of the dead. of coelenterates (as corals, sea neon
Abraham Lincoln was interested in anemones, and jellyfishes) used in adj
necromancy, and his wife held catching prey. / SnGTBn /
séances in the White House. Each nematocyst of the jellyfish Gk
contains a spiral-coiled thread of, relating to, or resembling the
nectar tipped with a toxin-bearing barb reddish glow of neon lamps.
that can be ejected into the skin. Even though Tim was wearing neon
swimming trunks, his mom had
trouble spotting him on the
crowded beach.
Page 213 of 349

neonatology nephelometer nettlesome
n n adj
/ TnGPnCStBlEjG / / TnefESlBmEZE(r) / / SneZFlsEm /
Gk + L + Gk G+G E+E
a branch of medicine concerned an instrument for measuring causing vexation : irritating.
with the care, development, and cloudiness. The city’s traffic situation was
diseases of newborn infants. The nephelometer has been proved nettlesome to the visitors from the
Jackie hopes to specialize in either useful in detecting and measuring small town.
pediatrics or neonatology. air pollution.
neuralgia
neophyte nephew n
n / n(y)VSraljE /
/ SnGETfIt / nephology Gk
Gk an acute paroxysmal pain radiating
a new convert; especially : a nephoscope along the course of one or more
convert to the Christian faith in the n nerves usually without
early church. / SnefETskPp / demonstrable changes in the nerve
In just three years St. Cyprian of Gk structure.
Carthage went from being a an instrument for observing the Garret’s neuralgia was so painful
neophyte to being the bishop of direction of motion and velocity of that he sought relief from a
Carthage. clouds. chiropractor.
Mr. Tadeusz explained to his new
neossology assistant how the nephoscope neurasthenic
n worked. adj
/ TnGTBSsBlEjG / / Tn(y)UrasSthenik /
Gk nephrectomy Gk
the study of young birds. n affected with a syndrome
The student of neossology was / nDSfrektETmG / characterized by easy fatigability,
thrilled to receive a baby parrot for Gk by worrying and depression, and
his birthday. the surgical removal of a kidney. often by headache and digestive
Barry’s kidney was so diseased that and circulatory problems.
nepenthe his physician recommended a The neurasthenic patient
n nephrectomy. complained of being bored,
/ nDSpen(t)thG / neglected, and depressed.
Gk nepotism
something capable of causing n neurokyme
oblivion of grief and suffering. / SnepETtizEm /
The old man sought respite and L > It > F neurological
nepenthe from bad memories. favoritism shown to relatives (as by adj
giving them positions because of / Tn(y)UrESlBjDkEl /
nephalism their relationship rather than on Gk
n their merits). of or relating to the scientific study
/ SnefETlizEm / Most employees resent nepotism of the nervous system.
Gk because it reduces motivation for Dr. Will is a specialist in the
total abstinence from alcoholic advancement via hard work. treatment of neurological
beverages. disorders.
In Muslim countries nephalism is a nescience
way of life for many people. neuropathy
nescient n
nephelognosy adj / n(y)VSrBpEthG /
n / Snesh(G)Ent / Gk > ISV
/ TnefESlBgnEsG / L an abnormal and usually
Gk + Gk exhibiting or characterized by lack degenerative state of the nervous
scientific observation of clouds. of knowledge or system or nerves.
Satellite photos of cloud formations awareness : ignorant. Neuropathy can lead to numbness
and movements have been a great George’s nescient response to the and weakness of the hands, feet, or
aid in the field of nephelognosy. question about the plot limbs.
demonstrated that he had not read
the book. neurotic
Page 214 of 349

neuston nicety nidificate
n v
neutercane / SnIsEZG / / SnidEfDTkCt /
n F>E L
/ Sn(y)VZe(r)TkCn / a dainty, delicate, or elegant thing build a nest.
L + Taino > Sp or feature. While recuperating, Jan watched
a subtropical cyclone that is usually Dad considered a meal at a posh the robin gather bits of string and
less than 100 miles in diameter and restaurant to be a nicety of good small twigs to nidificate in the
that draws energy from sources living. maple tree outside the bedroom
common to both the hurricane and window.
the frontal cyclone. niche
The weather bureau is tracking the n nidifugous
neutercane to see if it develops into / Snich / adj
a hurricane. L>F / nISdifyEgEs /
a place suitable for the capabilities L
neutral or merits of a person. leaving the nest soon after
Wendy felt she had found her niche hatching.
neutralize at school in the student government Because they are relatively highly
v association. developed when they hatch, ducks
/ Sn(y)VtrETlIz / and chickens are nidifugous.
L + Ecf nickelodeon
make chemically neither acid nor n nidor
base. / TnikESlPdGEn / n
Scientists used nitric acid to G? > Sw + F > G / SnITdO(E)r /
neutralize the magnesium a theater affording a motion-picture L
hydroxide that had formed on the exhibition or a variety show for an [Note: Alternate pronunciation has
space capsule tape when it came in admission price of five cents. homonym: niter/nitre.] a strong
contact with seawater. The silent movies at the smell : reek.
nickelodeon were usually enhanced The nidor of the hot grease warned
newel by piano music. Della that she should lower the
temperature.
newspaporial nicotinism
n nidorous
nexus / SnikETtGTnizEm / adj
n F name + cff / SnIdErEs /
/ SneksEs / the effect of the excessive use of L
L tobacco. smelling of or like burning or
a connected group or series. Patients who suffer from nicotinism decaying animal matter.
A nexus of events led to the exhibit lung and heart problems. The sailors were repulsed by the
overthrow of the government and nidorous bilge water.
the exile of the king. nictitant
niece
Nicaraguan nidicolous
adj adj niello
/ TnikESrBgwEn / / nISdikElEs / n
Central American geog name L / nGSe(T)lP /
of or relating to the country of living in a nest; especially : sharing L > It
Nicaragua in Central America. the nest of another kind of animal. any of several alloys of sulphur
Much Nicaraguan coffee is Many insects are nidicolous, with silver, copper, or lead having a
exported to the United States. sharing the nests of birds who deep black color.
sometimes eat their larvae. After cutting a design in the silver
jewelry box, Phillip filled in the
design with niello.
Page 215 of 349

Nietzschean nimiety nitrogen
adj n n
/ SnGchGEn / / niSmIEZG / / SnItrDjDn /
G name L Gk
of or relating to the German excess, redundancy. a colorless tasteless odorless
philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Usually Caleb’s writing is concise, element that as a diatomic gas is
Nietzsche. but his most recent essay is a relatively inert and constitutes 78
Norman characterized John’s glowing example of nimiety. percent of the atmosphere by
views as juvenile Nietzschean volume and occurs as a constituent
nonsense. nimious of all living tissues.
adj Lightning causes the oxidation of
niggardly / SnimGEs / nitrogen to nitric oxide, which is
adj L rained out as nitrate.
/ SnigE(r)dlG / [Note: Could be confused with
Scand > E niveous.] excessive, extravagant. niveau
characterized by a reluctance to Oscar, who could barely afford to n
part with money : tightfisted. rent a costume for the masked / nGSvP /
The wealthy banker was best charity ball, found the whole thing F
known for his niggardly spending oppressively nimious. [Note: Plural form is pronounced
habits. similarly.] a level (as of existence
nineteenth or achievement) especially in a
nightingale progression.
n ninetieth Ben’s tennis class is at the
/ SnItFnTgCl / intermediate niveau.
E nippy
a thrush common in Great Britain adj niveous
that is noted for the sweet song of / SnipG / adj
the male often heard at night during E / SnivGEs /
the breeding season. chilly, chilling. L
Haley was awakened by a The nippy breeze reddened Ryan’s of, relating to, or resembling snow.
nightingale singing outside her cheeks. The niveous landscape looked most
bedroom window. inviting to the cross-country skiers.
nisei
nightmare n nobiliary
n / SnGTsC / adj
/ SnItTma(a)(E)r / Jpn / nPSbilGTerG /
E a son or daughter of Japanese L > F > E + Ecf
a frightening dream accompanied immigrant parents who is born and of or relating to the nobility.
by anxiety or terror. educated in the United States. By threat of force the king quelled
Cara’s nightmare was caused by Tomoko is the only nisei in her the nobiliary squabbles.
the ghost stories told around the family; all her siblings were born
campfire. in Japan. nobly
nihilism nitidity nocent

n n
/ SnIETlizEm / / niStidEZG / nociceptor
L + Ecf L + Ecf n
a viewpoint that all traditional the quality or state of being bright, / SnPsGTseptE(r) /
values and beliefs are unfounded glossy, or lustrous. L
and that all existence is The moon’s nitidity helps owls find a part of the body that transmits to
consequently senseless and useless. their prey. the central nervous system
The rock star's lyrics were injurious or painful stimuli.
criticized for advocating a bleak The spicy salsa activated each
nihilism. nociceptor on Michelle’s tongue,
bringing her to tears.
Page 216 of 349

nocive nomenclature nonchalance
adj n n
/ SnPsiv / / SnPmEnTklCchE(r) / / TnBnshESlBn(t)s /
L L F
harmful, injurious. the collective names given to or a display or air of jaunty unconcern
The laboratory assistant wore a borne by places in a particular or indifference.
mask to protect himself from nocive region or area. Sarah reacted with nonchalance
fumes. The nomenclature of Boston streets when her neighbors complained
confused Ling when she first about her unruly dog.
noctivagant arrived.
adj nonchalant
/ nBkStivDgEnt / nominal
L adj noncommittal
going about in the night : night- / SnBmEnFl / adj
wandering. L / TnBnkESmiZFl /
The bat, being a noctivagant of, relating to, or being a word that L
mammal, has inspired many is otherwise characteristically an taking no clear position or giving
legends. adjective or adverb but that takes a no clear indication of attitude,
noun construction in a given feeling, or point of view.
nocturnal context. Lacy’s tone was friendly but
adj A good example of a nominal word noncommittal.
/ nBkStErnFl / is good in “the good die young.”
L>F nominee nondescript
active at night. n adj
Some zoos have special habitats for / TnBmESnG / / TnBndDSskript /
nocturnal animals. L + Ecf L
a person named or proposed for an lacking distinguishing
nocuous office, duty, or position. characteristics.
The president’s nominee for the Because he was utterly
nodosity Supreme Court had to be approved nondescript, Virgil was the perfect
n by a Senate committee. infiltrator.
/ nPSdBsEZG /
L nomological nonmetal
a protuberance or swelling.
Ardis felt a slight nodosity on the nonage nonpareil
cat’s back. n adj
/ SnBnij / / TnBnpESrel /
nodule F>E L>F
a period of youth, childhood, or having no equal : peerless.
noegenesis infancy. Tom’s lack of common sense
The pieces that Mozart wrote in his overshadowed his nonpareil
noisome nonage demonstrate an intellect.
adj understanding of music that few
/ SnOisEm / adults ever attain. nonplus
E v
offensive to the senses : noxious, nonagenarian / nBnSplEs /
harmful, unwholesome, destructive. n L
A noisome odor emanated from the / TnBnEjESnerGEn / cause to be at a loss as to what to
plastics factory. L + Ecf say, think, or do.
a person who is 90 or more and less Vince’s aggressive interviewing
than 100 years old. technique tends to nonplus
Ernestus bragged that he was the inexperienced candidates.
only nonagenarian at the rock
concert. nonsense
Page 217 of 349

nonuple nostrum novice
adj n n
/ SnBTn(y)VpEl / / SnBstrEm / / SnBvDs /
L>F L L>F>E
consisting of nine : being nine a remedy or medicine of secret [Note: The definition provided is
times as great or as many. composition recommended by its not the one most commonly
There was a nonuple increase in preparer but usually lacking general associated with this word.] one who
the rate of traffic citations after the repute or acceptance. has entered a religious house for a
new regulations went into effect. Mr. Sherwood insists that his trial period.
nostrum will cure warts within a The film The Nun’s Story stars
noology week. Audrey Hepburn as a young novice
n who eventually becomes a nurse in
/ nPSBlEjG / notabilia Africa.
Gk
the study of mind : the science of notarize noxious
phenomena regarded as purely adj
mental in origin. notoriety / SnBkshEs /
Ahmet found that his interests in n L
philosophy and psychology / TnPZESrIEZG / harmful or destructive to man or to
converged in the field of noology. L other organisms.
the condition of being an object of Emma is studying the noxious
noontide wide or general attention, interest, effects of gasoline fumes.
and comment for something
normocyte reprehensible or scandalous. noxiously
A red convertible enhanced
nosocomial Thurmon’s notoriety. noyade
adj
/ TnBsESkPmGEl / nougat nuance
L n n
originating or taking place in a / SnVgEt / / Sn(y)VTBn(t)s /
hospital. L > Prov > F L>F
Since implementing its new a confection of nuts or fruit pieces minute variation : delicate
disinfection protocol, the hospital in a sugar paste. gradation : subtle distinction.
has seen a 40 percent drop in Lynn’s boyfriend gave her a box of The music critic took notes on
nosocomial infections. chocolates filled with hazelnut every nuance of the performance.
nougat.
nostalgia nubbin
n noumenal
/ nESstalj(G)a / adj nubilous
Gk > L / SnVmEnEl / adj
homesickness. Gk / Sn(y)VbElEs /
Theo was overcome with nostalgia of or relating to an object of purely L
at the sight of a McDonald's in rational apprehension as opposed to cloudy, foggy, misty.
Istanbul. an object of perception. Trade wind clouds are constantly
Philosophy deals with noumenal piling up in nubilous traffic jams.
nostril concepts, while science deals with
n phenomenal concepts. nuchal
/ SnBstrEl / adj
E novemdecillion / Sn(y)VkEl /
either of the outer openings of the Ar > L + Ecf
nose. novercal of or relating to the nape, the back
In some cultures, a pierced nostril adj part of the neck.
adorned with a ring is considered / nESvErkEl / Midge’s new necklace gave her a
attractive. L nuchal rash.
of, relating to, or characteristic of a
stepmother.
Helene’s novercal relationship with
her husband’s children is close and
loving.
Page 218 of 349

nuciform nullification nuncio
adj n n
/ Sn(y)VsETfOrm / / TnElEfDSkCshEn / / SnEn(t)sGTP /
L L L
like a nut in shape. the act of depriving of legal or a top-ranking diplomatic envoy of
Preston gave Anna a box of binding force or validity. the pope accredited to a civil
nuciform chocolate candies. Louis XIV’s accession to the throne government.
was ushered in by the nullification The papal nuncio worked with the
nuclear of his father’s will. governor’s office to prepare for the
pope’s tour of the region.
nugacious nullifidian
adj n nuncupation
/ n(y)VSgCshEs / / TnElESfidGEn / n
L L / TnEnkyESpCshEn /
trifling, trivial. a person of no faith or religion. L
Arguments about who sits in the The nullifidian decided to start a an oral will.
front seat seem nugacious to many magazine devoted to the theory and While the sailor was ill aboard
adults. practice of secular humanism. ship, he made a nuncupation in
which he bequeathed his property
nugacity numb to his mother.
nugatory numerology nuncupative

adj adj
/ Sn(y)VgETtPrG / numinous / SnENkyETpCZiv /
L adj L
having little or no consequence : / Sn(y)VmEnEs / stated verbally : oral—used chiefly
worthless. L + Ecf of a will.
The prize Jeff won at the carnival dedicated to or hallowed by The terms of Grandpa’s
was just a nugatory plastic trinket. association with a deity : sacred. nuncupative will were not contested
A soft light seemed to glow from by the family.
nugget the numinous vessel on the altar.
n nuptiality
/ SnEgDt / numismatist n
unknown n / TnEpshGSalEZG /
a lump; especially : a lump of gold. / n(y)VSmizmEZDst / L
Adrian kept a gold nugget as a L the marriage rate.
good-luck charm. a specialist in the study of coins : a Nuptiality usually increases
coin collector. dramatically in June.
nuisance When Emery wanted to know the
n value of a coin, he showed it to his nurture
/ Sn(y)VsFn(t)s / neighbor, who was a numismatist.
L > F > Ar > E nurturer
something that is disagreeable or nummary
troublesome : annoyance. nutrient
The barking dogs in Jeff’s numnah
backyard were a nuisance he could nutrition
not ignore. nunchaku
n nutritiously
nullibicity / nVnSchBk(T)V / adv
n Jpn dialect / n(y)VStrishEslG /
/ TnElESbisEZG / a weapon of Japanese origin made L + Ecf
L + Ecf of two hardwood sticks joined at in a manner that promotes growth
the quality or state of being their ends by a short length of and development.
nowhere. rawhide, cord, or chain. Judging from the kinds of foods
Natalie accused the state of putting Eli insists that a nunchaku with a that George likes, it is not going to
freedom and basic rights into Bruce Lee image would make his be easy to get him to eat
nullibicity. martial arts paraphernalia nutritiously.
complete.
Page 219 of 349

nyala obdurate obfuscatory
n adj adj
/ SnyBlE / / SBbd(y)ErDt / / BbSfEskETtPrG /
Tsonga&Venda L L
an antelope of southeastern Africa resistant to persuasion or softening tending to make difficult of
with vertical white stripes on the influences : unyielding. comprehension or interpretation.
sides of the body and with shaggy Fritz is maintaining an obdurate Oleg found the obfuscatory
hair along the male underside. opposition to the new highway language in his apartment lease
The nyala thrives in the heaths and bypass. infuriating.
forests of the Ethiopian highlands.
obedient obituary
nyctalopia adj
n / PSbGdGEnt / objective
/ TniktESlPpGE / L>F>E n
Gk submissive to the restraint, control, / EbSjektiv /
a defect of vision characterized by or command of authority. L
reduced visual capacity in faint The toddler was not very obedient a lens or system of lenses that
light or at night. and even seemed to enjoy being forms an image of the object in the
Nyctalopia may be corrected by defiant. focal plane of an eyepiece (as in a
vitamin therapy. telescope).
obeisance The light-gathering power of a
nymph n telescope is a function of the
/ PSbCsFn(t)s / diameter of its objective.
nystagmus L>F>E
n an attitude of respect : deference, objicient
/ nDSstagmEs / homage. n
Gk Josh demonstrated his obeisance / EbSjishEnt /
a rapid involuntary oscillation of for the famous professor by writing L
the eyeballs occurring normally down her every word. one who opposes something with
with dizziness during and after words or argument.
bodily rotation or abnormally after obeisant The bill became a law despite the
injuries. adj protests of a very influential
Bart suffered from nystagmus for / PSbCsFnt / objicient.
several days following the boxing F
match. servile, obsequious. objurgation
By the third course, the waiter’s
oakenshaw obeisant behavior was starting to objurgatory
get on Tara’s nerves. adj
oakum / EbSjErgETtPrG /
obelisk L
oarlock n expressing sharp reprimand.
/ SBbETlisk / The mayor sent an objurgatory
oasis Gk letter to the negligent department
n an upright four-sided monolithic head.
/ PSCsDs / pillar that tapers as it rises and
Hamitic? > Gk > L terminates in a pyramid. obligation
a small isolated fertile area that is The Washington Monument is a n
surrounded by general barrenness world-famous obelisk. / TBblESgCshEn /
and typically marked by trees or L
other greenery and that has a water obese something that one is bound to do :
supply. an imperative duty.
The caravan rested for two days at obesity Because of Carra’s past assistance,
the oasis. Craig felt an obligation to return
obfuscate the favor.
obligatory
Page 220 of 349

oblique obreptitious obstetrician
adj adj n
/ ESblGk / / TBTbrepStishEs / / TBbzTteStrishEn /
L L L
neither perpendicular nor parallel : done or obtained by trickery or by a physician or veterinarian
having a slanting direction or concealing the truth. specializing in birth and its
position. The undercover agent passed the antecedents and sequels.
All triangles have at least one obreptitious information to his The obstetrician often relied more
oblique side. superiors. on instincts and old-fashioned
psychology than he did on his
obliquity obrogate medical expertise.
n
/ ESblikwEZG / obsecration obstetrics
E > F > L + Ecf n
the angle between the planes of / TBbsESkrCshEn / obstinate
Earth’s equator and orbit. L adj
Seasonal changes in temperature a supplicatory prayer mentioning in / SBbztEnDt /
are due to the obliquity of Earth’s its appeal things or events held to L
orbital path. be sacred. pertinaciously adhering to an
“Through thy victory over death, O opinion, purpose, or course.
obliterative Lord, deliver us” is an obsecration. Franklin has missed at least two
promotions because he is so
oblivion obsequious obstinate about doing things his
adj own way.
obliviscence / EbSsGkwGEs /
n L>E obstreperous
/ TBblESvisFn(t)s / meanly or servilely attentive. adj
L Marshall tends to be obsequious / EbzStrep(E)rEs /
[Note: Could be confused with toward Mrs. Kirby. L
oblivescence.] forgetfulness. stubbornly defiant : resisting
Serious obliviscence in older obsessive control or restraint often with a
people may be a symptom of show of noisy disorder.
Alzheimer’s disease. obsolescence The noisy diner was asked to leave
but became obstreperous and had
obloquy obsolescent to be escorted out of the restaurant.
n adj
/ SBblEkwG / / TBbsESlesFnt / obtenebrate
L L v
a strongly and often intemperately falling into disuse especially as / BbStenETbrCt /
condemnatory utterance. unable to compete with something L
Mr. Willett recited the names of the more recent. darken by or as if by shadowing.
pranksters with uncharacteristic Many linguists believe that the As the storm approaches, dark
obloquy. relative pronoun whom is clouds obtenebrate the valley.
obsolescent except when it follows
obmutescence a preposition. obtrusive
n
/ TBbmyEStesFn(t)s / obsolete obtundent
L adj
a becoming or keeping silent. obstacle / BbStEndEnt /
To ensure the press’s obmutescence n L
regarding the case, the judge / SBbz(T)tikEl / blunting irritation or lessening pain.
issued a gag order. L Aspirin is used for its obtundent as
something that hinders progress : well as its antipyretic qualities.
obnounce hindrance.
Carrie believes there is no obstacle obviate
she cannot overcome in her quest
to become an Olympian.
Page 221 of 349

obvious occlusion ochlocratic
adj n adj
/ SBbvGEs / / ESklVzhEn / / TBklESkraZik /
L L Gk
readily and easily perceived by the the front formed by a cold front of or relating to mob rule.
sensibilities or mind. overtaking a warm front and lifting Pure ochlocratic government
“We’re moving!” Harold shouted, the warm air above Earth’s surface. would pay no heed to minority
which was a fact that had already As the advancing cold air met the voices.
become obvious to everyone. warm front, a cold occlusion
developed that caused the ochlophobia
ocarina temperature to drop. n
n / TBklESfPbGE /
/ TBkESrGnE / occult Gk
L > It morbid fear of crowds.
a simple wind instrument or toy of occultation Alice never attended rock concerts
the flute class having a mouthpiece n because of her ochlophobia.
and fingerholes. / TB(T)kElStCshEn /
Professor Miller unearthed a four- L>E ochlophobist
hole ocarina used by the ancient the shutting off of the light of a
Mayas. celestial body by the intervention octane
of some other celestial body.
occasion A solar eclipse is the occultation of octave
the Sun by the Moon. n
occasionally / SBktDv /
adv occurrence L>E
/ ESkCzhEnFlG / a musical interval embracing eight
L occurring diatonic degrees.
now and then : here and there. Tricia explained the concept of an
The Spelling Bee replied, “Years ocellus octave to her music class at school.
ago I was just an ordinary bee n
minding my own business, smelling / PSselEs / octavo
flowers all day, and occasionally L
picking up part-time work in one of usually three simple eyes in octogenarian
people’s bonnets.” an insect located in a triangle
occipital between the compound eyes. octopus
adj A single ocellus can do no more
/ BkSsipEZFl / than detect light, but more than one oculauditory
L grouped together can produce an
of or relating to the back part of the image of the surrounding area. oculogyric
head of a vertebrate or an insect. adj
In the accident Mr. Stein’s occipital ocelot / TBkyElPSjIrik /
bone was fractured. n L + Gk > L
/ SPsETlBt / relating to or involving circular
occision Nahuatl > F movements of the eyeballs.
n a medium-sized American wildcat The silent movie comedian
/ BkSsizhEn / ranging from Texas to Patagonia specialized in oculogyric close-ups.
L and having a tawny yellow or
an act or instance of slaughtering. grayish coat that is dotted and oculus
Ecologists are protesting the striped with black. n
wholesale occision of sea turtles The ocelot appears in Aztec stone / SBkyElEs /
within national boundaries. carvings. L
an architectural part resembling or
occlude suggestive of an eye.
In the west end of Norman
churches there is often an oculus.
oddment
odious
Page 222 of 349

odium ogre oleaginous
n adj
odograph / SPgE(r) / / TPlGSajEnEs /
n L>F Gk > L > F
/ SPdETgraf / a hideous giant represented in fairy characterized by smooth
Gk tales and folklore as feeding on courteousness or sickly
an instrument for automatically human beings : monster. sentimentality.
plotting the course and distance Jason wrote a tale about an ogre Grandpa was too smart to be taken
traveled by a vehicle. who lived under a bridge and in by oleaginous salesmen.
Now that Carlos has a car feasted on every tenth person who
equipped with a Global Positioning crossed. oleander
System receiver, an odograph is the n
logical next step. ohm / SPlGTandE(r) /
n L
odontoloxia / SPm / an ornamental evergreen shrub that
n G name has narrow leaves and clusters of
/ PTdBntESlBksGE / [has homonyms: aum, om] the fragrant white to red flowers.
Gk practical meter-kilogram-second The sweet aroma of the oleander
irregularity of the teeth. unit of electric resistance that is wafted through the window.
Odontoloxia can usually be equal to the resistance of a circuit
corrected with braces. in which a potential difference of 1 oleiculture
volt produces a current of 1
odyssey ampere. olericulture
n Michael was confused by the Greek n
/ SBdEsG / symbol for omega in his textbook / SBlErETkElchE(r) /
Gk until he realized that it was the L + Ecf + L
a long wandering or series of abbreviation for an ohm. a branch of horticulture that deals
adventurous journeys. with the production, storage,
When he talks about his odyssey, oilcloth processing, and marketing of
André means the summer he spent n vegetables.
working his way across Europe. / SOilTklOth / As a college subject, olericulture is
Gk > L > F > E + E generally divided into market
oeuvre cotton cloth coated with a dull or gardening and truck farming.
n glossy finish made of oil, clay, and
/ SHv(rF) / colored pigment to make the cloth olfactory
L>F waterproof. adj
a substantial body of work A kitchen stove, a table covered / BlSfakt(E)rG /
constituting the lifework of a with oilcloth and two chairs could L
writer, an artist, or a composer. be seen from the doorway. of, relating to, or connected with
The poet won the award not for any the sense of smell.
particular work, but for his oeuvre. ointment Humans have relatively weak
olfactory abilities compared to
officiousness okapi many other animals.
n
ogive / PSkBpG / oligarchic
n African name adj
/ SPTjIv / an African animal that is related to / TBlESgBrkik /
L? > F? > E the giraffe but has a relatively short Gk
a diagonal arch or rib across a neck and solid reddish coat with of, relating to, characteristic of, or
Gothic vault. black and cream rings on its legs. supporting a group or organization
The middle of a Gothic vault, In Zaire the meat of the okapi is a that is controlled by a privileged
where each ogive cuts across the favorite food of the Pygmies. few.
others, is called the key and is often A society dominated by large-scale
in the form of a rose. oligarchic organizations eventually
develops an oligarchic political
ogle regime.
Page 223 of 349

oligarchy ombudsman omnibus
n n adj
/ SBlETgBrkG / / SBmTbUdzmEn / / SBmnDTbEs /
Gk + Gk Sw L
government by the few. [Note: Plural form is pronounced of, relating to, or providing for
Over the years, the tiny state’s identically.] one that investigates many things or classes at once :
government eroded from a complaints (as from students or containing or including many
democracy to an oligarchy. customers), reports findings, and items.
helps to achieve equitable Ursula purchased an omnibus
oligophrenia settlements. edition of Shakespeare’s works,
n The college hired a special which was bound in leather.
/ TBlDgPSfrGnGE / ombudsman to investigate
Gk widespread charges of unfair omnifarious
mental deficiency. grading practices. adj
Although afflicted with / TBmnDSfa(a)rGEs /
oligophrenia, Cynthia was capable omega L
of taking care of herself in her of all varieties, forms, or kinds.
home. ominous The natural history museum has an
adj omnifarious collection of animal
ombrometer / SBmEnEs / bones.
n L
/ BmSbrBmEZE(r) / indicative of future misfortune or omnigenous
Gk + Gk calamity : causing anxiety and fear.
an instrument for measuring the For an instant there was an omnilegent
quantity of precipitation that falls at ominous stillness, quieter and more adj
a given place and time. silent than ever before, as if even / BmSnilEjEnt /
Precipitation in the area was the air was holding its breath. L
studied by collecting data from reading or having read everything :
radar scans and an ombrometer. omissible characterized by encyclopedic
reading.
ombrophilous omission The omnilegent student was a
adj n valued member of the academic
/ BmSbrBfElEs / / PSmishEn / team.
Gk L
capable of withstanding or thriving the act of failing to insert, include, omnipotence
in the presence of much rain. or name. n
After three days of rain, Kathy Katie refused to believe that Joe’s / BmSnipEZEn(t)s /
hoped that her garden plants were omission of her name on the guest L
ombrophilous. list was accidental. almighty or unlimited power.
With an attitude of omnipotence,
ombrophobous omitted the government presumed that it
adj v could take any land it wanted.
/ BmSbrBfEbEs / / PSmiZDd /
Gk L omnipotent
incapable of withstanding long- left out.
continued rain. Harry Nebuchadnezzar Schwartz omniscience
Ombrophobous plants would perish usually omitted his middle name
in a Seattle garden. when he filled out forms. omniscient
adj
/ BmSnishEnt /
L
having infinite awareness,
understanding, and insight :
knowing all things.
In most monotheistic religions, God
is understood to be both omniscient
and all-powerful.
omnivorous
Page 224 of 349

onomastics onychosis
onager n pl n
n / TBnESmastiks / / TBnESkPsDs /
/ SBnEjE(r) / Gk Gk
Gk > L > E the science or study of the origins [has near homonym: onchoses] a
an Asian wild ass that usually has a and forms of proper names of disease of the nails.
broad dorsal stripe. persons or places. Even though he had only a mild
Although the onager looks like a A book on onomastics explained onychosis, Eric was not allowed to
donkey, it runs as swiftly as a that the name Donald is a Scottish work in the lab.
horse. Gaelic word meaning “world
ruler.” onyx
oncogeny onomatope adj
n n / SBniks /
/ BNSkBjEnG / / SBnEmETtPp / Gk
Gk > L Gk of the color jet black.
the process of tumor formation. a word formed in imitation of The teacher told the schoolchildren
Certain plant extracts have been natural sounds. that space looks onyx from the
shown to inhibit oncogeny. Tim found the onomatope kaboom shuttle.
in today’s comic strip.
oncology oometer
n onomatopoeia n
/ TBNSkBlEjG / / PSBmEZE(r) /
Gk onslaught Gk + Gk
the study of tumors. n an instrument for measuring eggs.
Ed is focusing on oncology in his / SOnTslOt / Mr. Horton uses an oometer to
medical studies and is particularly D>E determine which eggs go in which
interested in pancreatic cancer. an especially fierce attack. cartons.
The Britons were unable to
oneiric withstand the onslaught of the oophagous
Saxons. adj
onerous / TPSBfEgEs /
adj ontogeny Gk
/ SBnErEs / n living or feeding on eggs—used of
L>F>E / BnStBjEnG / insects or reptiles.
that involves, imposes, or Gk + Gk Oophagous insects help control the
constitutes much oppressive or the biological development or bug population.
irksome work, effort, difficulty, or course of development of an
responsibility. individual organism. opacity
Ron grudgingly completed the The role of brain ontogeny in n
onerous task of cutting and Alzheimer’s disease requires that / PSpasEZG /
stacking the firewood. an autopsy be performed to obtain L>F
a definitive diagnosis. the quality or state of a body that
oniomania renders it impervious to the rays of
onus light : lack of transparency or
onion n translucency.
/ SPnEs / The envelope’s opacity made it
onionskin L impossible for Garnet to see if
burden. there was a check inside.
onlooker Caring for her six children was an
onus for the young widow. opah
opalescence
n
/ TPpESlesFn(t)s /
Skt > L + Lcf
the quality or state of reflecting an
iridescent light.
The moonstone’s opalescence gave
it a pearly luster.
Page 225 of 349

opalescent ophthalmologist opportuneness
n
opaque / TBfTthalSmBlEjDst / opposite
adj Gk n
/ PSpCk / a physician that specializes in the / SBpEzDt /
L study and treatment of defects and L
impervious to the rays of visible diseases of the eye. the person occupying the position
light : not transparent or Monica goes to the ophthalmologist across from one’s own in square
translucent. once a year because she has a dancing.
The Dornans hung an opaque family history of glaucoma. Daniel’s opposite in the square
window shade in their son’s dance is a better dancer than he.
nursery. ophthalmology
opposition
opeidoscope opiate n
n / TBpESzishEn /
/ PSpIdETskPp / opine L
Gk v a configuration in which one
an instrument using light rays, a / PSpIn / celestial body is opposite another in
flexible membrane, and a mirror to L>F the sky.
exhibit the vibratory motions state as an opinion. The Moon, when full, is said to be
caused by sounds. There are some things humans in opposition to the Sun.
Mr. Peterson used a simple think they know, and some that they
opeidoscope to compare the sounds merely opine. opprobrious
of musical instruments. adj
opodeldoc / ESprPbrGEs /
operatable L>F>E
adj opossum conveying or intending to convey
/ SBpETrCZEbEl / n disgrace.
L + Ecf / ESpBsEm / The principal denounced the
fit, possible, or desirable to use. Algonquian vandals in opprobrious terms.
Renata hoped that her car would be [Note: Could be confused with
operatable after the collision. possum.] an omnivorous largely opprobrium
nocturnal and arboreal mammal
operettist that has a prehensile tail and an oppugn
abdominal pouch to which the v
ophelimity young are transferred at birth. / ESpyVn /
Arnold caught the opossum eating L
ophicleide the cat’s food. challenge the accuracy, propriety,
probity, or other quality of.
ophiolatry oppidan The newspaper had a tendency to
n adj oppugn the actions of Congress in
/ TBfGSBlEtrG / / SBpEdEn / its editorials.
Gk L
the worship of or the attribution of of or relating to a town or to town optimistic
divine or sacred nature to snakes. as opposed to country. adj
Before the rise of monotheism, The painter sold his oppidan scenes / TBptESmistik /
ophiolatry in one form or another of market day on the sidewalk, L > F + Ecff
was nearly universal among earning just enough to live on. anticipating the best.
ancient peoples. Jackie remained optimistic about
opportune winning the national spelling bee.
ophthalmic adj
/ TBpE(r)StVn / option
L>F>E
fit, suitable, or convenient for a
given purpose.
We could not have chosen a more
opportune spot for a picnic than the
shore of Lake Walcott.
Page 226 of 349

opulent orchestra orfevrerie
adj n n
/ SBpyElEnt / / SO(r)kDstrE / / OrfevrESrG /
L Gk F
exhibiting or characterized by a large group of players of musical goldsmith's or jeweler’s work :
wealth or affluence. instruments including typically jewelry.
Leather wall covering is one strings, woodwinds, brasses, and Dave carefully looked over the
feature of the room’s opulent percussion organized especially for orfevrerie, trying to decide what his
décor. performing one of the larger forms wife would like for her birthday.
of concert music or for
opusculum accompanying an oratorio or other organ
n dramatic work.
/ PSpEskyElEm / The orchestra dazzled the audience oriel
L with its performance of n
a minor work (as of literature). Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. / SPrGEl /
Although critics regarded Jerome’s L? > F > E
first novel as an opusculum, it has orchid [has homonym and near homonym:
steadily risen on the best-seller n oriole and aureole] a large bay
lists. / SOrkDd / window of semihexagonal or
Gk > L semisquare plan projecting from
oracle a distinctive and often brightly the face of a wall and supported by
colored tropical flower with three a corbel or bracket.
orally petals. Megan set her chair in the
Many varieties of the orchid can be pleasantly sunny oriel and sat
orator found in Hawaii. down to read.
n
/ SOrEZE(r) / orchidaceous orifice
L adj n
one distinguished for skill and / TOrkDSdCshEs / / SOrEfDs /
power in public speaking. Gk > L + Ecf L>F
Daniel Webster was an eminent expressing or characterized by a the mouth or opening of something.
19th-century orator. showy or ostentatious quality. Each sprinkler head had an orifice
Today’s journalists generally of one-half inch.
orbital eschew orchidaceous writing.
n oriflamme
/ SO(r)bEZFl / ordeal
L origami
a solution of the Schröedinger ordination n
wave equation describing a n / TOrESgBmG /
possible mode of motion of a single / TO(r)dFnSCshEn / Jpn
electron in an atom or molecule. L the art or process of Japanese paper
There is theoretically no outer limit the act or state of being admitted folding.
to the orbital of an electron. into the Christian ministry. After only a few hours of studying
At her ordination Heather origami, Veronica was creating
orchard delivered a sermon on the 23rd paper cranes by the dozen.
n Psalm.
/ SOrchErd / original
L+E ordnance
a plantation or enclosure containing n oriole
fruit trees, nut-bearing trees, or / SOrdnEn(t)s /
sugar maples. F orison
In the orchard were bare fruit trees [has homonym and near homonym: n
growing in the winter-browned ordinance and ordonnance] military / SOrEsEn /
grass. supplies including weapons, L>F>E
ammunition, and combat vehicles. prayer.
As quartermaster, Sergeant Russo The pastor designated time in the
was responsible for all of the service for a silent orison for the
ordnance on the base. hostages.
Page 227 of 349

ormolu orphanage oryx
n n
/ SO(r)mETlV / orpiment / SPriks /
F n Gk > L
brass made to imitate gold and used / SO(r)pEmEnt / any of a genus of large heavily
in mounts for furniture and for L>F>E built African and Arabian antelopes
other decorative purposes. an orange to yellow mineral that have a light-colored coat with
The large mirror’s frame was consisting of arsenic trisulfide and dark conspicuous markings
decorated with ormolu. used in fireworks and as a pigment. especially on the face.
Orpiment is used to produce yellow The adaptations of the Arabian
ornithopter pigment for painting. oryx to the desert include its
predominantly white coat to reflect
ornithotomy orrery heat and its splayed hooves for
n n walking on sand.
/ TO(r)nESthBZEmG / / SOrErG /
Gk E name oscillating
the anatomy or dissection of birds. an apparatus that illustrates the
Through ornithotomy Derrick relative positions and motions of oscillation
learned how a bird's bones are bodies in the solar system. n
interconnected. Sheila fashioned a crude orrery out / TBsESlCshEn /
of coat hangers and Styrofoam. L
orofacial a swinging or moving backward
adj orthodox and forward like a pendulum.
/ TPrESfCshEl / adj Engineers specified that slots be
L / SO(r)thETdBks / constructed in the deck of the
of or relating to the mouth and face. Gk + Gk bridge to reduce oscillation.
Roseanne underwent plastic marked by conformity to doctrines
surgery to correct orofacial or practices especially in religion oscillatory
abnormalities. that are held as right or true by adj
some authority, standard, or / SBsElETtPrG /
orogeny tradition. L
n In orthodox Jewish synagogues, characterized by the action of
/ OSrBjEnG / men and women are seated swinging or moving backward and
Gk separately. forward like a pendulum.
the process of mountain making The oscillatory motion of the
especially by folding of Earth’s orthoepy airplane caused Deborah to
crust. n become airsick.
Mrs. Scott was demonstrating / SO(r)thETwepG /
orogeny when she used a piece of Gk > L oscilloscope
carpet to show how mountains the study of the pronunciation of a n
form. language. / ESsilETskPp /
Differences between the English L + Gk > L
orotund spoken in the United States and an instrument in which the
adj that spoken in England is a topic of variations in a fluctuating electrical
/ SOrETtEnd / orthoepy familiar to many linguists. quantity appear as a visible wave
L form on the fluorescent screen of a
unduly full and strong in delivery orthogonal cathode-ray tube.
or style : pompous, bombastic. The technician used an
The more nervous Jeff gets while orthographize oscilloscope to help him pinpoint
giving a speech, the more orotund the problem.
his delivery becomes.
oscitation
orphan
n
/ SOrfEn /
Gk > L
a child without parents.
Oliver Twist is a famous fictional
orphan.
Page 228 of 349

osculatory ostentatious otitis
adj adj n
/ SBskyElETtPrG / / TBstEnStCshEs / / PStIZDs /
L L Gk > L
of, relating to, or characterized by for the purpose of attracting inflammation of the ear.
kissing. attention : pretentious. Jeff’s earache was diagnosed as a
Julie had no idea Shaun was Mrs. Howell’s purchase of a symptom of otitis of the middle ear.
talking about kissing when he diamond-studded collar for her
asked if she would help him refine poodle was one of her many otolaryngology
his osculatory skill. ostentatious extravagances. n
/ TPZETlarDnSgBlEjG /
osmosis ostentatiously G
n a branch of medicine that deals
/ BzSmPsDs / osteoclasis with the ear, nose, and throat and
Gk their disorders and diseases.
the flow or diffusion that takes osteoporosis When Hazel’s sore throat persisted,
place through a semipermeable n her family physician recommended
membrane typically separating / TBstGPpESrPsDs / an appointment with a specialist in
either a solvent and a solution or a Gk + L otolaryngology.
dilute solution and a concentrated a condition characterized by
solution. decrease in bone mass with otomycosis
An experiment using red dye gave a decreased density and enlargement n
dramatic demonstration of osmosis. of bone spaces producing porosity / TPZETmISkPsDs /
and fragility. Gk
osprey Diane’s doctor recommended disease of the ear produced by the
n increasing her calcium intake to growth of fungi in the external
/ SBsprG / prevent osteoporosis. auditory canal.
L>F>E Jane’s otomycosis proved resistant
a large hawk that is a dark brown ostracism to treatment.
color above and mostly pure white
below and feeds on fish that it ostracize otter
captures by hovering and diving. n
Because of its preferred diet, the ostrich / SBZE(r) /
osprey is also called a “fish hawk.” E
ossicle otacoustic [has homonym: odder] any of
n adj various largely aquatic carnivorous
/ SBsDkEl / / TPZESkVstik / mammals that are related to the
L Gk weasels and minks and usually
any of certain small bones. assisting the sense of hearing. have webbed and clawed feet and
The sports doctor told Nate that an Mrs. Jordan fashioned a piece of dark brown fur.
ossicle in his left ear had been cardboard into an otacoustic horn. The sea otter places a stone on its
damaged by the blow from his chest and uses it as an anvil on
opponent. otalgia which to open mussels and clams.
n
ossuary / PStalj(G)E / ottoman
Gk n
ostensible pain in the ear : earache. / SBZEmEn /
adj Otalgia is more common in Turk name > It > F
/ BSsten(t)sEbEl / children than in adults. an overstuffed footstool.
L Andrew spilled orange juice all
professing genuineness and otherwise over the ottoman.
sincerity but often concealing the adv
real aspects behind a plausible / SELE(r)TwIz /
facade. E
Mr. Elton’s ostensible reason for in a different way or manner :
stopping by was to ask whether Mr. differently.
Woodhouse’s party could be made Bret told us to always back up our
up in the evening without him. work; otherwise, we would be
sorry.
Page 229 of 349

oubliette oviparous oxymoron
n adj n
/ TVblGSet / / PSvipErEs / / TBksDSmPrTBn /
L>F L Gk
a dungeon with an opening only at producing eggs that develop and a combination for epigrammatic
the top and often a concealed pit hatch outside the maternal body. effect of contradictory or
below the floor. The platypus is an oviparous incongruous words.
Every medieval French castle mammal. Dexter feels that the phrase jumbo
Karen visited on the tour had an shrimp is an oxymoron.
oubliette. ovoid
oyez
ourselves oxbow v
/ PSyC /
outlet oxen F
—used by criers of courts as a
outrageous oxidation command to secure silence and
adj attention before a proclamation.
/ TaUtSrCjEs / oximeter “Oyez, oyez, oyez!” yelled the crier
F as the judge entered the courtroom.
extravagant, fantastic. oxlip
The sophomores created an oyster
outrageous float for the oxydactyl n
homecoming parade. adj / SOistE(r) /
/ TBksDSdaktFl / Gk > L > F > E
ouzo Gk + Gk a marine bivalve mollusk found
having slender tapered digits. along seacoasts or in the mouths of
ovation The glove was made for a delicate, rivers.
oxydactyl hand. Dad would not eat an oyster.
overbearance
oxygen ozonic
overcast n
adj / SBksDjDn / ozonosphere
/ SPvE(r)Tkast / Gk > F
E a nonmetallic element that is pabulum
clouded over. normally a colorless odorless n
On a gloomy overcast muggy tasteless nonflammable gas, is the / SpabyElEm /
Minnesota summer day, the circus most abundant of the elements on L
came to town. Earth, and occurs in air and water, rudimentary or sentimental writing.
in most common rocks and The famous poet’s early works
overcompensate minerals, and in a great variety of were pure pabulum.
organic compounds.
override Oxygen is the second most pachinko
abundant element in Earth’s n
overriding atmosphere. / pESchiN(T)kP /
Jpn
overt oxylophyte a Japanese gambling device
n resembling a pinball machine but
overweening / BkSsilETfIt / with automatic payoff as in a slot
adj Gk machine.
/ TPvE(r)SwGniN / a plant that prefers or is restricted Since the 1950s, playing pachinko
E to an acid soil. has been a favorite pastime among
unduly confident. Sphagnum moss, which grows in the youth of Japan.
Elaine's overweening pretensions bogs, is a common oxylophyte.
fell flat when it was revealed that
she could not even speak French.
Page 230 of 349

pachyderm pageant paladin
n n
/ SpakDTdErm / pageanteer / SpalEdFn /
Gk > F n L > It > F
one of a group of thick-skinned / TpajEnSti(E)r / a champion of a medieval prince : a
mammals (as an elephant or L + Ecf legendary hero.
rhinoceros). an actor or other performer in a A medieval prince could be
When the circus came to town, it spectacle. challenged to a duel, but his
usually featured at least one The pageanteer startled Benji by paladin would do the actual
pachyderm. leaping onto the table. fighting.
pacificator pageantry palatable

n adj
pacifist / SpajEntrG / / SpalDZEbEl /
L>E Etruscan? > L > E + Ecf
pacifistically colorful, rich, or splendid display. agreeable to the palate or taste :
adv Rachel could not wait to see the savory.
/ TpasESfistDk(E)lG / pageantry of the medieval festival. Mom poured cheese over the
L>F>E spinach to make it more palatable.
in a manner characterized by pagination
opposition to violence as a means palatial
of settling disputes. pagoda
Randall approached his angry n palatially
neighbor pacifistically. / pESgPdE / adv
Skt > Pg / pESlCshElG /
paddock a Far Eastern structure resembling L + Ecff
a tower that is often richly in a manner suitable for a palace.
padishah decorated and typically has The new hotel was palatially
n projecting roofs that curve upward surrounded by high stone walls
/ SpBdETshB / between each story and that is with elaborate bronze gates.
Per erected usually as a temple or
a powerful important personage : memorial. palatinate
mogul. The tour guide claimed that 1000 n
George Lucas is a padishah of pounds of gold went into the / pESlatFnDt /
motion picture epics. decoration of the ornate pagoda. L
the province or territory of a
paella paisley European nobleman.
n adj Prince Vlad bowed, saying “I offer
/ pESelE / / SpCzlG / you the hospitality of my
L > F > Catal Scottish geog name palatinate.”
a saffron-flavored stew containing printed with an elaborate design palaver
rice, chicken, seafood, and various consisting typically of curved n
vegetables. abstract figures. / pESlavE(r) /
Paella can be an expensive dish to Mrs. Whatsit untied a blue and Gk > L > Pg
prepare because saffron threads green paisley scarf. profuse, idle, or worthless talk :
are so costly. chatter.
pajamas Dean left when the seminar
pagan n discussion degenerated into
adj / pESjBmEz / palaver.
/ SpCgEn / Hindi
L loose clothing designed for palazzo
of, relating to, or having the sleeping and relaxation.
characteristics of followers of a Danielle received some flannel
polytheistic religion (as in ancient pajamas for Christmas.
Rome).
New Age spirituality has given rise palace
to a number of organized pagan
groups.
Page 231 of 349

paleontology pallbearer palooka
n n n
/ TpClGTBnStBlEjG / / SpOlTberE(r) / / pESlVkE /
Gk > F L > E+E unknown
a science that deals with the life of an attendant at a funeral who helps an inexperienced or incompetent
past geological periods, is based on carry the coffin. boxer.
the study of fossil remains of plants Each pallbearer wore a carnation The boxing manager told his
and animals, and gives information in his lapel. fighter to box like a palooka for
especially about the chronology of one round, then come out swinging
the history of Earth. pallescent hard.
Theo traces his interest in
paleontology back to his discovery pallesthesia palouser
of fossils in his yard when he was a
young boy. palliate palpability
v
palilalia / SpalGTCt / palpable
n L adj
/ TpalESlClGE / moderate the intensity of : lessen. / SpalpEbEl /
Gk > L For many prisoners, books palliate L
a speech defect marked by the boredom of isolation from easily perceptible by the mind :
abnormal repetition of syllables, society. obvious, manifest.
words, or phrases. The injustice of the situation was
Palilalia is a symptom of some palliative palpable to even the least fair-
mental disorders. minded individual present.
pallor
palimpsest n palpebral
n / SpalE(r) / adj
/ SpalDm(p)Tsest / L / SpalpEbrEl /
Gk abnormal paleness. L
a parchment, tablet, or other The pallor of Julian’s stage [has near homonym: palpable] of,
portion of writing material that has makeup gave his girlfriend a fright. relating to, or located on or near the
been used twice or three times after eyelids.
the earlier writing has been erased. palmyra Mike’s palpebral spasms were
Special equipment will help n alleviated when he was treated with
determine whether the old / palSmIrE / a muscle relaxant.
parchment Colin found is a L > Pg
palimpsest. a tall fan palm that is native to palpitant
Africa but widely cultivated in adj
palindrome India. / SpalpEZEnt /
n The palmyra made a stately L
/ SpalDnTdrPm / addition to Ramu’s garden. trembling, quivering, throbbing.
Gk Darryl jabbed his fork into the
a word, verse, or sentence that palometa palpitant pudding.
reads the same backward or n
forward. / TpalESmeZE / palpitation
Ada struggled to contrive a L n
palindrome centered around her any of various butterfishes (as the / TpalpEStCshEn /
own name. California pompano). L
The fish dealer readily identified an abnormally rapid beating of the
palladium Chet’s greenish, slippery-coated heart when excited by violent
n catch as a palometa. exertion, strong emotion, or
/ pESlCdGEm / disease.
Gk > L Ron could feel the palpitation in his
something that affords effectual chest as he approached Marie to
protection or security. ask her out on a date.
Many consider the Second
Amendment to be the palladium of
democracy.
Page 232 of 349

paludal panbroil panickiness
adj v n
/ pESlVdFl / / SpanTbrOil / / SpanDkGnDs /
L L>F>E Gk > E
of, relating to, or made up of cook food in a skillet with little or the quality or state characterized by
marshes. no fat. or resulting from sudden
The map shows a boardwalk trail The recipe called for one to overpowering fright.
through the paludal areas. panbroil the chicken along with the In her panickiness in calling for an
vegetables. ambulance, Gretchen forgot to give
palustrine the street address.
adj pancreatitis
/ pESlEstrDn / n panoramic
L / TpaNkrGEStIZDs /
living or thriving in a marshy Gk > L pantisocracy
environment. inflammation of the gland that n
The alligator is an excellent produces insulin. / TpantESsBkrEsG /
palustrine hunter. The physician recommended Gk
immediate surgery for Gordon’s a utopian community in which all
palynology acute pancreatitis. rule equally.
The romantic poets dreamed of
pamphlet pandiculation establishing a pantisocracy
n wherein everyone would share in
pamphleteer / panTdikyESlCshEn / the governing of the community.
n L
/ Tpam(p)flDSti(E)r / a stretching and stiffening pantomime
Gk > L name + Ecf especially of the trunk and n
a writer of pamphlets attacking extremities (as when fatigued and / SpantETmIm /
something or urging a cause. drowsy or after waking from sleep). Gk > L
Thomas Paine made a name for A cat usually extends its claws a dramatic performance using no
himself in colonial America as a during pandiculation. dialogue.
pamphleteer. The sixth-grade class put on a
panegyric pantomime of the story “Androcles
panacea n and the Lion.”
/ TpanESjirik / papacy
panacean Gk > L
adj an oration or writing expressing paparazzi
/ TpanESsGEn / praise. n pl
Gk > L + Ecf Walt Whitman composed a famous / TpBpESrBtsG /
having the properties of a remedy panegyric on the occasion of It name
for all ills and difficulties. Abraham Lincoln’s death. free-lance photographers who
Advertisements for the new pain aggressively pursue celebrities in
medicine suggest that it has panelist order to take candid photographs.
panacean qualities. Many people still blame the
panettone paparazzi for their apparent role in
panache n the death of Princess Diana.
n / TpBnEStPnG /
/ pESnash / L > It papeterie
L > It > F a usually yeast-leavened holiday
dash or flamboyance in style or bread containing raisins and paprika
action. candied fruit peels. n
The novel’s great strength is the Tad received a panettone in the / pESprGkE /
splendidly depicted panache of the mail from his Italian grandmother. Gk > Serb > Hung
protagonist. a condiment consisting of the dried
finely ground pods of various
panary cultivated sweet peppers.
Paprika has been a prized export of
Hungary for centuries.
papyrus
Page 233 of 349

parable paradox paralysis
n n n
/ SparEbEl / / SparETdBks / / pESralEsDs /
L Gk Gk
a usually short fictitious story that a statement or sentiment that is a state of powerlessness or
illustrates a moral attitude or a seemingly contradictory or opposed inactivity.
religious principle. to common sense and yet perhaps A sort of paralysis overcame the
Ella’s Sunday school teacher began true in fact. frightened child.
every class with a parable. The homework assignment was to
write an essay on the following paramedic
parabolize paradox: “To guarantee freedom
of religion, the government must be paramount
parabulia free from religion.” adj
n / SparETmaUnt /
/ TparESbyVlGE / paraffinic L > F > AF
Gk > L adj superior to all others (as in power,
abnormality or perversion of / TparESfinik / position, or importance).
willpower. L>G Victor holds the paramount seat on
One critic called Nietzschean of, relating to, or characterized by the library’s board of directors.
philosophy “a celebration of paraffin hydrocarbons or paraffin
parabulia.” wax. paranoia
parachute The new pesticide contains a highly n
refined paraffinic oil. / TparESnOi(y)E /
paraclete Gk
n paragraph a tendency on the part of
/ SparETklGt / individuals or of groups toward
Gk parallax suspiciousness and distrustfulness
[Note: Could be confused with n of others that is based not on
parrakeet.] one called to aid or / SparETlaks / objective reality.
support : an advocate. Gk > F Paranoia of government
The popular senator was hailed as the apparent displacement or the eavesdropping caused members of
a paraclete of civil rights. difference in apparent direction of the militia to encrypt their
an object as seen from two different communications.
paradigm points not on a straight line with
n the object. paraparesis
/ SparETdIm / Sujata carefully allowed for the n
Gk parallax when framing the picture / TparEpESrGsDs /
an outstandingly clear or typical in her viewfinder. Gk
example or pattern. partial paralysis affecting the lower
The paradigm of sin and salvation parallel limbs.
underlies much of 17th-century adj Kent’s paraparesis was caused by
English poetry. / SparETlel / a skateboarding accident.
Gk
paradise extending in the same direction and parapet
everywhere equidistant. n
parador The parallel lines of the railroad / SparEpDt /
tracks tipped off analysts to the L > It
location of the munitions plant. a rampart raised upon or above the
main wall in a permanent
paralogize fortification.
v The princess walked along the
/ pESralDTjIz / parapet every evening at dusk,
Gk watching for the return of her
reason falsely : draw conclusions beloved.
not warranted by the premises.
Although James tends to
paralogize, he is so eloquent that
his listeners often overlook his
faulty reasoning.
Page 234 of 349

paraph parasol parishioners
n n n pl
/ SparEf / / SparETsOl / / pESrish(E)nE(r)z /
Gk > L L > It > F Gk > L > F > E + Ecf
a flourish at the end of a signature a lightweight umbrella used as a the members of a local church
sometimes used as a sort of rude sunshade. community.
safeguard against forgery. Georgina decided to splurge on an The parishioners held a meeting
Delia always signs her name with antique parasol even though she and decided to build a new
an elaborate paraph ending in a knew she’d never actually use it. gymnasium for the school.
smiley face.
parboil parity
paraphernalia v n
n pl / SpBrTbOil / / SparEZG /
/ TparEfE(r)SnClyE / L>F>E L
Gk > L cook briefly in simmering liquid as [has homonym: parody] the quality
articles of equipment. a preliminary or incomplete or state of being equal : close
Mark lugged all his photographic cooking procedure. equivalence or resemblance.
paraphernalia to every spelling It is advisable to parboil dense American automobile
bee. vegetables like carrots before stir- manufacturers believe they have
frying them with other vegetables. achieved parity with their foreign
paraphrasable competitors.
adj parcel
/ SparETfrCzEbEl / parkin
Gk + Ecf pare
capable of being restated in another parlance
form usually for clearer and fuller parenthesize n
exposition. / SpBrlEn(t)s /
The teacher asked the students if parfait F
the meaning of the poem was n idiom, phraseology.
paraphrasable. / pBrSfC / In educational parlance the new
L>F high school is a “magnet school.”
paraplegic a cold dessert consisting of parley
adj alternating layers of fruit, syrup, ice n
/ TparESplGjik / cream, and whipped cream. / SpBrlG /
Gk Following a light lunch, Carmen L>F
affected with paralysis of the lower ordered a parfait of tropical fruits. [has homonym: parlay]
half of the body including both legs conversation, discussion.
due to disease or injury to the pariah Mr. Elton and Harriet had a very
spinal cord. n interesting parley about what could
With much determination, effort, / pESrIE / be done and should be done.
and training, the paraplegic patient Tamil
learned how to take care of himself a person despised or rejected by parliament
at home. society : outcast.
The candidate became a pariah to parochial
parasite his party, and many members adj
refused to be seen with him. / pESrPkGEl /
parasitic L > F > AF > E
adj parietal of or relating to a church parish.
/ TparESsiZik / adj Five of Susan’s friends attended
Gk > L / pESrIEZFl / parochial schools.
living in or on another organism. L>F
Dogs are susceptible to parasitic of, relating to, or located in the parodist
organisms such as fleas and upper posterior part of the head.
heartworms. The X ray revealed no damage to
Hernando’s parietal bone.
Page 235 of 349

parody parrhesia partridge
n n n
/ SparEdG / / paSrGzh(G)E / / SpBrtrij /
Gk Gk L>F>E
[has homonym: parity] a writing in [Note: Could be confused with any of several game birds
which the language and style of an Parisian.] boldness or freedom of belonging to the same subfamily as
author or work is closely imitated speech. the bobwhite.
for comic effect or in ridicule. When Bill was in elementary A partridge fluttered out of the tall
The Battle of the Frogs and the school, his parrhesia earned him grass and startled Katrina.
Mice is a Hellenistic parody of the many stints of standing in the
Iliad. corner. parturition
n
paroemia parsec / TpBrZESrishEn /
n n L
/ pESrGmGE / / SpBrTsek / the action or process of giving birth
Gk > L Gk + L to offspring.
a rhetorical proverb. a unit of measure for interstellar In some cultures, women return to
Coach Morgan’s favorite paroemia space equal to a distance of 3.26 manual labor within hours of
is “A rolling stone gathers no light-years or to 19.2 trillion miles. parturition.
moss.” Porgy estimated the distance
paroxysm between the stars to be one parsec. parvenuism
n n
/ SparEkTsizEm / parsimony / SpBrvETn(y)VTizEm /
Gk L > F + Ecf
a sudden, violent, and parsnip the behavior of one who makes
uncontrollable action or occurrence n great pretensions because of
of emotion. / SpBrsnip / acquired wealth.
When Jeff unknowingly sat on the L>F>E The parvenuism of the steel and
whoopie cushion, Al burst into a a biennial plant with yellow railroad barons caused them to
paroxysm of laughter. flowers and a long, thick, sweet, build some of the most amazing
white root used as a vegetable. private homes in the United States.
paroxysmal Jake yanked a parsnip from his
adj garden. pasigraphy
/ TparEkSsizmEl /
Gk > L > F parterre pasimology
marked or accompanied by sudden n n
attacks or spasms (as of a disease). / pBrSte(E)r / / TpasESmBlEjG /
Mike’s whooping cough was L>F Gk? + Gk + Gk
treated with antibiotics in its early the part of the floor of a theater the study of gestures as a means of
paroxysmal stage. behind the orchestra. communication.
For the season premiere, the seats Native American sign language is
parquet in the parterre were reserved for one means of communication
n the stockholder of the opera studied in pasimology.
/ pBrSkC / company.
F pasqueflower
a patterned flooring. parthenogenesis
Terry had expensive parquet n pasquinade
installed in the foyer. / TpBrthEnPSjenEsDs / n
Gk / TpaskwESnCd /
reproduction that involves It > F
development of a gamete without a lampoon or satire usually having
fertilization. a political significance.
Parthenogenesis occurs commonly The president’s misadventure
among some stick insect species. quickly became the subject of an
editorial pasquinade.
passementerie
passenger
Page 236 of 349

passerine pathogeny patriciate
adj n n
/ SpasErDn / / pESthBjEnG / / pEStrishGDt /
L Gk L
of or relating to the largest order of the origination and development of a class of high-ranking nobles or
birds including more than half of a disease. aristocrats.
all living birds and consisting Much research has been done on As members of the New York
chiefly of songbirds of perching the factors involved in the patriciate, Donald and his wife kept
habits. pathogeny of muscular dystrophy. a high social profile and lived
Mr. Perrault, an avid birder, told extravagantly.
us that passerine birds have a pathos
maximum life-span of about ten n patrikin
years in the wild. / SpCTthBs /
Gk patriot
pasteurization an element in experience or in n
artistic representation evoking pity / SpCtrGEt /
pasteurize or compassion. Gk > L > F
v The actress was highly praised for a person who loves his country and
/ Spas(h)chETrIz / the pathos she evoked in her death defends and promotes its interests.
F name + Ecf scene. The foreign spy convinced others
subject to heating long enough to that he was a flag-waving patriot.
kill disease-causing patois
microorganisms. n patroness
Dairies pasteurize milk before / SpaTtwB / n
delivering it to stores. F / SpCtrEnDs /
a dialect other than the standard or L
pastiche literary dialect. a woman who provides for or
n Parisians considered the French promotes the interests of a protégé.
/ paSstGsh / spoken in the English court to be a Emma was soon left in peace, not
It > F patois. forced to be the very active
a usually incongruous medley of patroness of Jane Fairfax.
different styles and materials : patriarch
hodgepodge. n patronymic
Jordan considers the design for the / SpCtrGTBrk /
new library a pretentious pastiche. Gk patulous
a man regarded as father or founder adj
pasture (as of a race, science, religion, or / SpachElEs /
n class of people). L
/ Spas(h)chE(r) / In many religious circles Adam is spreading widely from a center.
L>F>E considered to be the patriarch of The old apple tree had many
land that is used for the grazing of the human race. patulous branches.
animals.
Every morning the cows returned patrician patzer
to the grassy pasture. adj n
/ pEStrishEn / / SpBtsE(r) /
patache L G
of, relating to, or characteristic of an inept chess player.
patella gentle or noble birth or of breeding When Drew won the chess game so
n and cultivation. easily, he jokingly called his
/ pEStelE / Escorting Cassie to her debutante opponent a “patzer.”
L ball is a patrician experience Rob paucispiral
kneecap. will never forget.
Shelby bumped her patella against paucity
the bottom of the desk when she n
stood up too quickly. / SpOsEZG /
L
a small number : fewness.
The choir suffered from a paucity
of male voices.
Page 237 of 349

paunchiness pearly pedestrian
adj adj
paupiette / SpErlG / / pDSdestrGEn /
n L>F>E L
/ pPSpyet / having the color of a pearl, which is marked by drabness or dullness :
F usually white or light-colored. commonplace.
a thin slice of meat or fish wrapped “Show me your pearly whites,” The critic wrote the play off as a
around a filling (as of forcemeat). encouraged the photographer. pedestrian imitation of
At the new restaurant Carol Shakespeare.
enjoyed a veal paupiette stuffed peccadillo
with ham and cheese. n pedicure
/ TpekESdi(T)lP /
pavement L > Sp pedodontist
a slight offense or petty fault. n
pavilion The defense lawyers lost the case / TpGdPSdBntDst /
n when they tried to classify high Gk
/ pESvilyEn / treason as a “minor peccadillo.” a specialist in the branch of
L>F>E peccant dentistry that is concerned with the
a large often sumptuous tent. adj dental care of children.
The servants scurried to set up the / SpekEnt / The pedodontist recommends that
queen’s pavilion before the Sun L infants and toddlers not be allowed
went down. guilty of a moral offense : sinning, to fall asleep with a bottle of milk
corrupt. or juice in their mouths.
pavonine The council members railed against
adj the peccant mayor. peekaboo
/ SpavETnIn / n
L peculiar / SpGkETbV /
of, relating to, or resembling the E + cf + E
peacock. pecuniary a game to entertain an infant or
Audrey cooled herself by waving a adj young child in which one hides his
pavonine fan. / pDSkyVnGTerG / or her face and then reappears and
L makes an exclamation.
paysanne taking the form of or consisting of The photographer finally managed
adj money. to elicit a smile from the baby when
/ pCSzan / Margaret values her she started playing peekaboo.
F grandmother’s engagement ring for
prepared (as with diced root its sentimental rather than its peerless
vegetables) in country or simple pecuniary worth. adj
style. / Spi(E)rlDs /
Errol served a paysanne sauce with pedagogist E
the tenderloins. n matchless, incomparable.
/ SpedETgBjDst / Randy wondered how he could
peaceable Gk compete against the peerless
adj a specialist in education. defending champion.
/ SpGsEbEl / It didn’t take a pedagogist to know
L > F > E + Ecf the school was overcrowded. peevishly
marked by freedom from war, adv
strife, hostilities, or disorder. pedantic / SpGvDshlG /
Aggressive doctrines are adj E
incompatible with any peaceable / pDSdantik / in a manner marked by ill temper.
administration of the government. L? > It > F + Ecf “There, you see,” he said
excessively meticulous. peevishly; “I’m even afraid to
pearlescent Frazier’s pedantic approach bored make a positive statement.”
the few remaining audience
members.
Page 238 of 349

peirastic penalty penicillin
adj n n
/ pISrastik / / SpenFltG / / TpenESsilDn /
Gk L L
fitted for trial : experimental. a disadvantage (as loss of yardage, a mixture of antibiotic relatively
The new drug has been approved time, or possession of the ball) nontoxic acids produced especially
only for peirastic use with patients imposed for violation of the rules by molds of the genus Penicillium.
who volunteer to take it. of a contest. When penicillin did not cure
In ice hockey a penalty of two Frankie’s ear infection, the doctor
pejorative minutes off the ice is frequently prescribed a different antibiotic.
adj given to players who commit minor
/ pDSjOrEZiv / infractions of the rules. peninsula
L n
having a tendency to make or penance / pDSnin(t)s(E)lE /
become worse : depreciatory, n L
disparaging. / SpenEn(t)s / a portion of land nearly surrounded
The critic’s pejorative comments L>F>E by water and connected with a
angered the entire cast. [has homonym: pennants] act of larger body by an isthmus.
self-abasement either voluntarily Florida is actually a very large
pelagic performed to show sorrow for sin peninsula.
or imposed as a punishment for sin
pelican by a church official. penitence
Emma resolved to keep Harriet no n
pelisse longer in the dark and went, the / SpenEZEn(t)s /
n very next day, to undergo the L
/ pDSlGs / necessary penance of sorrow for sins or faults.
L>F communication. Because of Ella’s true penitence,
[has homonym: police] a woman’s her best friend was quick to forgive
loose lightweight cloak with wide penchant her for her breach of confidence.
collar and fur trimming. n
Grandmother’s old pelisse was a / SpenchEnt / penitentiary
perfect costume for our production L>F n
of A Christmas Carol. a strong leaning or attraction; / TpenEStench(E)rG /
broadly : liking. L>E
pellagra While traveling overseas, Brad a public institution in which
developed a penchant for Turkish offenders against the law are
pellucid coffee. confined for detention or for
punishment, discipline, and
Peloponnesian pencraft reformation and in which they are
adj generally compelled to labor.
/ TpelEpESnGzhEn / pendeloque The judge sentenced the bank
Gk name + Gk robber to 25 years in the state
of or relating to the southern pendulum penitentiary.
peninsula of Greece. n
The Peloponnesian War was / SpenjElEm / pennant
between Athens and Sparta. L n
a body suspended from a fixed / SpenEnt /
pemphigoid point so as to swing freely to and L
fro under the action of gravity and a flag or banner.
commonly used to regulate the Whenever the queen was in
movements of clockwork and other residence, her pennant was raised
machinery. on the palace flagpole.
Trina stops the grandfather clock’s
pendulum each evening so that the
chimes will not ring during the
night.
penguin
Page 239 of 349

pensive perambulate peremptory
adj v adj
/ Spen(t)siv / / pESrambyETlCt / / pESrem(p)t(E)rG /
L>F>E L L
absorbed or engrossed in or given travel over or through especially on putting an end to or precluding a
to sober thoughtfulness. foot. right of action, debate, or delay.
Lori appeared pensive on the last Sid and Amy often perambulate the Mr. Stone interrupted Cindy’s
day of vacation. park on sunny days. wrong answer by raising his hand
in a peremptory gesture.
pentathlon perceive
n perennate
/ penStathTlBn / perceptible v
Gk / SperETnCt /
a contest in the modern Olympic percipient L
Games involving participation by live over from season to season :
each contestant in horseback riding, percnosome persist.
shooting, fencing, swimming, and n Ornamental banana trees will
running. / SpErknETsPm / seldom perennate outdoors north of
Miguel is practicing four hours a Gk the subtropics.
day for the upcoming pentathlon. a small body occurring in the
androcyte of a fern. perennial
pentecostys Under the microscope, the dark adj
shape of the percnosome was / pESrenGEl /
penumbra clearly visible. L
n continuing or lasting through
/ pDSnEmbrE / percolate several years—used specifically of
L v a plant that dies back seasonally
a shadow cast (as in an eclipse) / SpErkETlCt / and produces new growth from a
where the light is partly but not L part that lives over from season to
wholly cut off by the intervening prepare by causing (a liquid) to season.
body. pass through (as coffee) in order to The garden is bare of flowers
Bert caused a penumbra on the extract the essence. because the perennial plants have
screen when he walked in front of Sal did not allow enough time to been cut down for their winter rest.
the slide projector. percolate his coffee before he had
to go to work. perestroika
penurious n
percussor / (T)perDSstrOikE /
penury n Russ
n / pE(r)SkEsE(r) / extensive restructuring and reform
/ SpenyErG / L intended to revitalize the
L a small hammer with a rubber head government and economy of the
scantiness. used as a diagnostic tool by former Soviet Union.
Jane cited the penury of intelligent physicians. Perestroika was the key that
conversation at the children’s table Dr. Goldman tested Paula’s unlocked the former Soviet Union
as her reason for wanting to sit reflexes with a percussor. and other Warsaw Pact nations to
with the adults in the main dining democratization.
room. peregrinate
v perezone
peony / SperEgrDTnCt /
n L perfervid
/ SpGEnG / travel on foot : walk, tour. adj
E Nicki hopes to peregrinate across / TpErSfErvDd /
any of a genus of perennial often England in the fall. L
double-flowered plants with large extremely or excessively fervent :
pink, white, red, or yellow showy zealous, impassioned.
flowers. In front of the Capitol a man was
Ben placed a brightly colored giving a perfervid speech on the
peony in a tall vase. evils of national taxation.
Page 240 of 349

perfidious peripatetic perishable
adj adj
perfidy / TperEpESteZik / / SperDshEbEl /
Gk L > F > E + Ecf
perforate performed or performing while subject to quick deterioration or
moving about : itinerant. spoilage except under proper
perfume Adrian spent an exciting three conditions (as of temperature or
n years as a peripatetic journalist moisture content).
/ SpErTfyVm / before settling in Chicago. The advent of refrigeration
L > OProv > F changed the way perishable foods
a fluid preparation used for peripety are packaged.
scenting : fragrance. n
Some theaters designate a / pESripEZG / peristalsis
fragrance-free seating area for Gk > F n
those persons allergic to perfume a sudden or unexpected reversal of / TperESstOlsDs /
and scented lotions. circumstances or situation in a Gk
literary work. successive waves of involuntary
pergelisol The peripety in the last act of the contraction passing along the walls
n play stunned the audience. of the intestine and forcing the
/ pErSjelETsOl / contents onward.
L peripheral Disruption of peristalsis can lead
permanently or perennially frozen adj to digestion problems.
ground : permafrost. / TpESrif(E)rEl /
Chan’s theory is that there are Gk perjury
large oil deposits beneath the located away from a center or a n
pergelisol. central portion. / SpErj(E)rG /
Although Kerry’s main interest lies L > AF > E
Periclean in literature, she has peripheral the voluntary violation of an oath.
adj interests in art history and One thing is certain after the
/ TperESklGEn / psychology. testimony: Either Mr. Jakes or Mr.
Gk name Cleveland has committed perjury.
of or relating to Pericles or his age periphery
when Athens was at its highest n perlustrate
material and intellectual state. / pESrif(E)rG /
Periclean Athens bequeathed the Gk permanence
Parthenon and many other the external boundary or surface of
monuments of artistic splendor to any body or area. permeable
the world. Many villages dotted the periphery
of the extinct volcano. permeate
perigee v
n periphrasis / SpErmGTCt /
/ SperE(T)jG / n Gk
Gk / pESrifrEsDs / spread or diffuse through.
the point in the orbit of a satellite of Gk Igor wiped up the spill
Earth that is nearest to the center of the use of a longer phrasing in immediately, lest the smell of
Earth. place of a possible shorter and formaldehyde permeate the room.
As the communications satellite plainer form of expression.
neared perigee, its signal became Frustrated by the document’s pernicious
stronger. endless periphrasis, Ludwig threw adj
up his hands in despair. / pE(r)SnishEs /
perinatal L
highly injurious or destructive :
deadly.
The doctors finally eradicated the
pernicious infection from the
patient’s lungs.
Page 241 of 349

pernoctate perseverance personification
v n
/ (T)pErSnBkTtCt / / TpErsESvirEn(t)s / personnel
L L
stay up or out all night. continued or steadfast pursuit or perspicacious
Brian knew he would have to prosecution of an undertaking or adj
pernoctate at least once in order to aim. / TpErspESkCshEs /
finish his term paper. After much perseverance, Frank L + Ecf
induced the most upright female of acute mental vision or
peroration mind in creation to stoop in charity discernment.
n to a secret engagement. The chairman attributed the
/ TperESrCshEn / company’s record profits to
L persevere perspicacious management.
a flowery, highly rhetorical speech.
Trudy’s peroration was lost on her persevered perspicuity
audience at the school board v
meeting. / TpErsESvi(E)rd / perspiration
L>F>E
perpendicular persisted in spite of counter persuade
influences, opposition, or
perpetual discouragement. pertinacious
adj Winston persevered at his post in adj
/ pE(r)Spech(Ew)El / accordance with his duty. / TpErtFnSCshEs /
L>F>E L
everlasting, eternal. persiflage stubbornly unshakable.
Shawna expected to enjoy n There was something mysterious in
perpetual bliss in heaven. / SpErsETflBzh / the moody and dogged silence of
F this pertinacious companion.
perplexing frivolous bantering talk : a
adj frivolous and somewhat derisive pertinent
/ pE(r)SpleksiN / manner of treating a subject.
L As the teams moved up and down pertinently
that causes an agitated or confused the court, both benches kept up a
mental condition. constant stream of persiflage. perusal
Silvio found English grammar n
terribly perplexing. persillade / TpESrVzEl /
adj L? > E + E
perquisite / TpersGSBd / the action of reading through or
n F over with some attention and
/ SpErkwEzDt / dressed with or containing parsley. typically for the purpose of
L Marina’s dinner guests enjoyed a discovering or noting one or more
a privilege, gain, or profit flavorful sea bass in a persillade specific points.
incidental to an employment in sauce. The legal advisor’s perusal of the
addition to regular salary or wages. proposed contract identified many
A perquisite attractive to many persimmon points of concern.
business executives is unlimited use n
of a cellular telephone. / pE(r)SsimEn / peruse
Algonquian v
persecute a medium-sized tree of the southern / pESrVz /
v and eastern United States with hard L>E
/ SpErsDTkyVt / fine-grained wood, oblong leaves, read; specifically : read through or
L and bell-shaped flowers followed read over with some attention and
harass in a manner to injure, grieve, by an orange several-seeded berry typically for the purpose of
or afflict usually because of some that is edible when fully ripe but discovering or noting one or more
difference of opinion. usually extremely astringent when specific points.
The revolutionary extremists vowed unripe. Jan plans to peruse several
to persecute the peasants who Leroy’s mouth puckered when he journals in the hope of getting
would not support their cause. bit into an unripe persimmon. needed material for further
research.
Page 242 of 349

pervasive petrolage phaeton
adj n n
/ pE(r)SvCsiv / / SpetrElij / / SfCEtFn /
L + Ecf L > F + Ecf Gk > L
that permeates or tends to the treatment of stagnant water [has near homonym: Phaëthon] an
permeate. with mineral oil so as to open automobile with two cross
The turkey farm had a pervasive exterminate mosquitoes. seats, usually four doors, and a
odor that clung to clothes. The health department was advised folding top.
to use petrolage every spring to Charles almost bought the 1931
pervicacious eliminate the mosquitoes. Rolls Royce phaeton at the auction.
perwitsky petroleum phalacrosis

n
pessimist petrophilous / TfalESkrPsDs /
n adj Gk
/ SpesEmDst / / pDStrBfElEs / baldness.
L>F Gk Phalacrosis is an inherited
one inclined to put the least attached to or living on rock; used characteristic.
favorable construction on actions especially of algae and crustaceans.
and happenings, to emphasize Petrophilous barnacles and limpets phalanx
adverse aspects, conditions, and can be found along rocky shores. n
possibilities, or to anticipate the / SfCTlaNks /
worst possible outcome. pettifogger Gk
Being a pessimist made keeping n a group or body in close formation.
friends very difficult for Mark. / SpeZGTfBgE(r) / Sarah craned her neck in wonder
E + G name? as the phalanx of military jets flew
pestilence lawyer whose methods are petty, over in tight formation.
n underhanded, or disreputable.
/ SpestElEn(t)s / Unlike the pettifogger who hung phansigar
L out his shingle across the street,
a contagious or infectious epidemic Mr. Patterson was a gentleman of pharaoh
disease that is virulent and the law. n
devastating. / Sfe(T)rP /
Pestilence has historically been one petulance Egypt > Heb > Gk > L
of society’s main causes of death. a ruler of ancient Egypt.
petulant Tutankhamen is one pharaoh
pestle adj whose name most people recognize.
n / SpechElEnt /
/ SpesEl / L pharisaical
L>F>E characterized by temporary or adj
a usually club-shaped implement capricious ill humor : peevish. / TfarESsCDkEl /
for pounding or grinding The striking ballplayers were Aram > GK > L + E
substances especially in a mortar. characterized as spoiled, petulant, making an outward show of piety
Grandma bought a brass mortar and self-obsessed. and morality but lacking the inward
and pestle from an antique dealer. spirit : hypocritical.
petunia Cardinal Newman spoke of the vast
petchary n numbers of pharisaical individuals
/ pDStVnyE / among baptized Christians.
petechia L>F
a common garden plant with pharmaceutical
petrogeny funnel-shaped flowers of many
n colors and patterns.
/ pDStrBjEnG / Russell pulled a purple petunia
Gk + Gk from the flower bed.
the science of the origin of rocks.
A vacation trip to the Grand
Canyon sparked Lauren’s interest
in petrogeny.
Page 243 of 349

pharos pheromone philippics
n n n pl
/ SfCTrBs / / SferETmPn / / fDSlipiks /
Gk Gk Gk
a lighthouse or beacon to guide a chemical substance that is declamations full of acrimonious
seamen. produced by an animal and serves invective : tirades.
Leland said the restaurant acted as a specific stimulus to other The philippics that the two
like a pharos for all those at sea off individuals of the same species for legislators shot back and forth
the tip of the island. one or more behavioral responses. across the chamber roused the
When attacked by another beetle, lethargic Senate.
pharynx the defensive beetle emitted a
repellent pheromone. philistine
phase adj
n phew / SfilETstGn /
/ SfCz / Heb > Gk
Gk phial of, relating to, or characterized by
[has homonyms: fays, faze] a crass materialism and insensitivity
homogeneous, physically distinct, philatelist to aesthetics.
and mechanically separable portion Nineteenth-century essayists
of matter that is present in a philately derided the English middle class as
nonhomogeneous physical- n being vulgar and philistine.
chemical system and that may be / fESlaZFlG /
either a single compound or a Gk > F phillumenist
mixture. [has near homonym: flatly] stamp n
Water exists in the solid phase as collecting. / fDSlVmEnDst /
ice, in the liquid phase as water, Philately can be an excellent Gk > L + Ecf
and in the gaseous phase as vapor inexpensive hobby. one who collects matchbooks or
or steam. matchbox labels.
philharmonic The phillumenist kept a fire
pheasant n extinguisher near his prize
n / TfilE(r)SmBnik / collection.
/ SfezFnt / Gk > L > It
Gk > L > F > AF > E a musical concert or musical philologist
any of numerous large, often long- organization (as a society or n
tailed, and brilliantly colored Old orchestra). / fDSlBlEjDst /
World birds with legs adapted for The philharmonic celebrated the Gk
running and scratching the ground Fourth of July with a program of a scholar concerned with human
where most of their food (as seeds patriotic music. speech as the vehicle of literature
or worms) is found. and as a field of study that sheds
After a morning of hunting, Larry philhellene light on cultural history.
returned with a pheasant, two n Hannah wants to become a
rabbits, and a wild duck. / filSheTlGn / philologist and study ancient
Gk Russian dialects.
phenomenon an admirer or supporter of Greece
n or of the Greeks. philology
/ fESnBmETnBn / After one trip to the museum, Lydia
Gk > L became an instant philhellene. philomath
an observable fact or event.
The civil rights movement began as philippic philosopher
a startling phenomenon to many
complacent Americans. phlebitis
n
pheon / flDSbIZDs /
Gk + Lcf
inflammation of a vein.
If phlebitis is not treated early, a
blood clot can form in the inflamed
vein.
Page 244 of 349

phlebotomize phonasthenia phraseology
n n
phlegm / TfPnEsSthGnGE / / TfrCzGSBlEjG /
Gk Gk > L
phlegmatic weakness or hoarseness of voice. choice of words : vocabulary.
adj After the football game some of the The candidate’s careful
/ flegSmaZik / cheerleaders complained of phraseology avoided any hint of
Gk phonasthenia. controversy.
calm, composed, undemonstrative.
Phlegmatic game-show contestants phoresy phrasing
are usually not as entertaining as n n
those who show excitement. / SfOrEsG / / SfrCziN /
Gk > L Gk > L
phloem the nonparasitic association of one style of expression : wording.
n kind of animal with another in In writing poetry, phrasing is
/ SflPTem / order to obtain transportation. critically important.
Gk > G Feather lice accomplish phoresy by
a complex tissue in the vascular clinging to the body hairs of blood- phrenology
system of higher plants functioning sucking flies. n
chiefly in distributing food / frDSnBlEjG /
materials but also in support and phosphoresce Gk + Gk + Ecf
storage. v the study of the conformation of the
Mr. Cartwright pointed out the / TfBsfESres / skull as indicative of mental
xylem and the phloem on the newly Gk > L > F faculties and traits of character.
cut tree. glow especially in the dark. Phrenology enjoyed great popular
Emmet’s jigsaw puzzle will appeal well into the 20th century
phlox phosphoresce after being exposed but has been wholly discredited by
n to a strong light source. scientific research.
/ SflBks /
Gk > L photogenic phylactery
any plant of a genus of American n
herbs having red, purple, white, or photogrammetry / fDSlakt(E)rG /
variegated flowers. Gk
Dean planted phlox along the photograph either of two small square leather
sidewalk. boxes containing slips inscribed
photophygous with scriptural passages and
phocine adj traditionally worn by Jewish males
adj / fPStBfEgEs / during morning prayer.
/ SfPTsIn / Gk + Gk + Ecf Milton explained that a phylactery
Gk > L + Ecf preferring or thriving in shade. is worn as a reminder to keep the
of, relating to, or resembling seals. Ferns and hostas are photophygous laws of Judaism.
One of the phocine characteristics plants often used in gardens.
is having limbs modified into phylliform
webbed flippers adapted primarily photosynthesis adj
to swimming. n / SfilETfOrm /
/ TfPZPSsin(t)thEsDs / Gk + Ecf
phoenix Gk + Gk having the shape of a leaf.
n synthesis of chemical compounds Every fall, phylliform silhouettes
/ SfGniks / with the aid of light. adorn the windows of Mrs.
Gk Photosynthesis in plants provides Gaskin’s classroom.
a legendary bird represented by the them with necessary carbohydrates.
ancient Egyptians as living five or phyllophorous
six centuries in the Arabian desert, adj
being consumed in fire by its own / fDSlBf(E)rEs /
act, and rising in youthful freshness Gk + Gk
from its own ashes. producing leaves : leaf-bearing.
The phoenix is a well-known Softwoods come from coniferous
symbol of immortality. trees, while hardwoods come from
phyllophorous trees.
Page 245 of 349

phylon piacular piccalilli
adj n
physically / pISakyElE(r) / / SpikETlilG /
adv L unknown
/ SfizDk(E)lG / of, relating to, or involving a relish of chopped vegetables and
Gk + Ecff sacrifice : sacrificial. pungent spices.
in respect to the body. While visiting the island of Patmos, Wanda put a dab of piccalilli in her
It was physically impossible for the tourists saw an ancient altar where tuna salad.
campers to hike another mile. the Greeks burned piacular
offerings to the gods. piccata
physician n
pianissimo / pDSkBZE /
physicist F > It
n piazza thin slices of meat (as veal) sautéed
/ SfizEsDst / n and served in a lemon and butter
Gk / pGSazE / sauce.
a specialist in the science of matter L > It Julia served veal piccata and
and energy and their interactions. an arcaded and roofed gallery that asparagus at Jack’s birthday
The physicist explained how a laser often surrounds an open court. dinner.
is used to read what is recorded on The tourists ran to the abandoned
a compact disc. monastery’s piazza when the rain piccolo
started pouring down.
physics pickelhaube
pica n
physiognomy n / SpikElThaUbE /
n / SpIkE / G
/ TfizGSB(g)nEmG / ML [Note: Could be confused with
Gk [has homonym: pika] a size of type pickelhauben.] a spiked helmet
the technique or art of discovering equivalent to 12 point. formerly worn by German soldiers.
temperament and character from Part of Katie’s proofreading job In the chapter on World War I, the
outward appearance (as from facial was to add another line of pica to history book included a photo of a
features). pages that had enough space. German general wearing a silver-
The artist’s careful study of plated pickelhaube.
physiognomy showed up in his picaresque
brilliant caricatures of politicians. adj pickle
/ TpikESresk / v
physique Sp / SpikEl /
relating to or being a type of prose D? > E
phytocoenosis fiction in which the principal [has homonyms: pickel, picol,
n character is a rogue or vagabond picul, pikel, pikol] steep in a
/ TfIZPsGSnPsDs / and the narrative is a series of solution of salt or vinegar for
Gk incidents or episodes. preservation.
the whole body of plants occupying In a typical picaresque novel, the Every year, the Johnsons pickle
a particular habitat. hero has many adventures. enough onions to give a jar to
William studied the effects of acid everyone in the neighborhood.
rain on the Adirondack picayune
phytocoenosis. adj picnicking
/ TpikGSyVn /
phytophilous L > Prov > F pictorialism
adj of little value : paltry, measly.
/ fIStBfElEs / The other players chided the picturesque
Gk + Gk + Ecf halfback for his picayune
living or feeding on plants. contribution to the team.
The forest fire deprived many
phytophilous animals of their
habitat and food.
Page 246 of 349

pidan pilchard pillory
n n n
/ pGSdBn / / SpilchE(r)d / / SpilErG /
Chinese unknown F>E
[has near homonym: piton] duck a fish related to the herring and a device formerly used for the
eggs preserved in brine to which sardine occurring in great schools public punishment of wrongdoers
lime, ashes, and tea are added. along the coasts of Europe. that consists of a wooden frame
Art’s grandmother makes authentic The pilchard is the principal fish with holes in which the head and
pidan. used for canning by the French and hands can be locked.
Portuguese. Pam took a snapshot of Julian
piecemeal standing by a pillory in the
adv pilferage reconstructed colonial village.
/ SpGTsmG(E)l / n
Gaulish > L > F > E + E / Spilf(E)rij / piloncillo
one piece at a time : little by little. F>E n
The magazine published the novel the act of stealing stealthily in / TpGlPnSsG(T)(y)P /
piecemeal for several weeks. small quantities. Sp
Pilferage in stores usually leads to unrefined sugar especially when
piety increased prices for the customers. molded into cones or sticks.
Rosita grated piloncillo into a bowl
pigeon pilgrimage of custard.
n n
/ SpijEn / / SpilgrEmij / pinafore
L>F>E L>F>E n
[has homonym: pidgin] a bird a journey to visit a shrine or a holy / SpinETfP(E)r /
having a stout body with rather place as a devotee. E
short legs and smooth and compact Felipe made a pilgrimage to a covering garment worn to protect
plumage. Santiago last year. clothes from soil, made variously
A pigeon fluttered about the eaves as an apron with or without a bib.
of the old barn. pillar Mrs. Dobbins wears a canvas
pinafore while working in the
pignorate pillbox potting shed.
n
pilaster / SpilTbBks / pinioned
n L + Gk > L > E
/ pDSlastE(r) / a small round brimless hat; pinnacle
Gk > L > It > F specifically : a woman’s shallow n
an upright architectural member hat with a flat crown and straight / SpinDkEl /
that is structurally a vertical sides. L
support but architecturally treated Margaret wore her blond hair a lofty mountain peak.
as a column that usually partially pinned up under a leopard skin The clouds obscured the pinnacle
projects from the wall and may be pillbox. from the view of those in the valley
load-bearing or merely applied as below.
surface decoration. pillion
The architect explained that n pinnigrade
because the pilaster was merely a / SpilyEn / adj
decoration, removing it for the ScotGael or IrGael / SpinETgrCd /
room’s renovation would be a motorcycle or bicycle riding L
permissible. saddle for a passenger. walking by means of fins or
Denny improvised a pillion in flippers.
order to give LaToya a ride home. The seal and the walrus are
pinnigrade animals.
Page 247 of 349

pinniped piracy pittance
n n n
/ SpinETped / / SpIrEsG / / SpitFn(t)s /
L Gk > L L>F>E
any of a suborder of aquatic robbery on the high seas. a usually small often barely
carnivorous mammals (as a seal or Charged with piracy, Blackbeard sufficient portion, amount, or
walrus) with all four limbs was hunted down by government allowance.
modified into flippers. warships. Gloria was tired of working long
Although the pinniped finds its food hours for a pittance.
in the sea, it needs to be on land or pirouette
ice to give birth to its young. n pityriasis
/ TpirESwet / n
pinocytosis F / TpiZESrIEsDs /
a full turn on the toe or ball of one Gk
pintle foot in ballet. one of several skin diseases marked
The pirouette is one of the most by the formation and peeling of
pioneer striking movements in a dancer’s scales.
adj repertoire. Uncle Nick’s pityriasis prevents
/ TpIESni(E)r / him from sleeping well.
F piscatorial
of, relating to, or characteristic of pivot
early settlers or their time. pistachio n
Julie worked last summer in a n / SpivEt /
restored pioneer village. / pDSstashGTP / L>F
Gk > L > It a person or thing on or around
pious the edible green seed of a small tree which something turns or depends :
adj of southern Europe and Asia central point.
/ SpIEs / Minor. The pivot of controversy is
L Patricia placed a pistachio on each Roberta’s questionable handling of
devout. parfait. public funds.
The pious Jewish historian saw in
Israel’s exile God’s punishment for piston pivotally
sin. n
/ SpistEn / pizzeria
piquancy L > It > F n
n the part of an engine that is forced / TpGtsESrGE /
/ SpGkEnsG / back and forth inside a cylinder due L > It + Itcf
F + Ecf to combustion. An establishment (as a bakery,
the quality of being agreeably Kyle learned to identify a piston in restaurant, shop) whera pizzas are
stimulating to the palate : the automobile repair class. made and sold.
pleasantly tart. Hank waited tables in the pizzeria
Colette especially liked the pitcher on weekends.
piquancy of Cajun cuisine.
piteous pizzicato
piqued adj adv
v / SpiZGEs / / TpitsDSkBZ(T)P /
/ pGkt / E It
F arousing or deserving pity or played by plucking with the
[has homonyms: peaked, peeked] compassion. fingers.
excited or aroused by a The piteous kitten stood shivering The score called for the violins to
provocation, challenge, or rebuff. in the snow. play the passage pizzicato.
The envelope sealed with sealing
wax piqued Helen's curiosity. pitiable placable
piton placatory
placebo
Page 248 of 349

placet plantar pleach
n
/ SplCsDt / planxty pleiad
L n
an expression of approval or vote plasticize / SplGEd /
of assent. Gk > F
The commander got the placet of platelet [has near homonym: plead] a
the other generals for his coup n group of illustrious or brilliant
d’etat. / SplCtlDt / persons or things usually seven in
Gk? > L > F > E + Ecf number.
placidity a minute flattened body. The maestro named a pleiad of
n A blood platelet is a minute pianists who were once his pupils.
/ plaSsidEZG / protoplasmic disk that plays a role
L in blood clotting. plenary
the quality or state of being calm or adj
composed. platinum / SplenErG /
Not resenting the repeated L
attention offered to another woman platypus fully attended or constituted :
was a degree of placidity which n including all entitled to be present.
Emma could neither comprehend / SplaZEpEs / Because of the important bills to be
nor respect. Gk voted on, the legislature convened
a small egg-laying aquatic mammal a plenary session.
plagiarism of southern and eastern Australia
and Tasmania having a fleshy bill plenilune
plagiarize resembling that of a duck, dense n
v blackish brown fur, five-toed / SplGnETlVn /
/ SplCjETrIz / webbed feet, and a broad flattened L>E
L + Ecf tail. the time of full Moon.
present as new and original an idea Cindy has asked for a pet platypus Zeke will begin planting after the
or product derived from an existing for her birthday. plenilune.
source.
Simon knew that it would be better plaudit plenipotentiary
not to turn in an essay at all than to n
plagiarize. / SplOdDt / plentiful
L adj
plaintiff strong and openly expressed / SplentDfEl /
n approval : enthusiastic approbation. L > F > E + Ecf
/ SplCntDf / Claudette’s report on UFOs was containing or yielding abundance.
L>F>E accorded a special plaudit by the The orange growers are looking
[has near homonym: plaintive] one professor for its originality. forward to a plentiful harvest.
who commences a personal action
or lawsuit to obtain a remedy for an plauditory pleonasm
injury to one’s rights. n
The plaintiff was suing the hospital plaustral / SplGETnazEm /
for negligence because he suffered Gk
bacterial infection after surgery. playwright iteration or repetition in speaking
n or in writing : the use of more
planetarium / SplCTrIt / words than those necessary to
E+E denote mere sense.
planetary a person who writes a composition Mr. Miller gave the phrase true
adj arranged for enactment (as by facts as an example of a pleonasm
/ SplanETterG / actors on a stage) and intended to to be avoided.
Gk > L > F > E portray life or character or to tell a
global, worldwide. story through the actions and
Deforestation is a planetary usually dialogue of the enactors.
concern. The playwright based his drama on
the struggles between gangs in the
plangi ghetto.
Page 249 of 349

plethora plover plumber
n n n
/ SplethErE / / SplEvE(r) / / SplEmE(r) /
Gk L>F>E L>F>E
excess, profusion. any of numerous shore-inhabiting one who installs, repairs, and
The jury retired to consider the birds having a short hard-tipped bill maintains piping, fittings, and
plethora of evidence presented in and a stout compact build. fixtures that are involved in the
court. Taylor could see that the plover distribution and use of water in a
circling over the tennis court had building.
pleurisy spotted upper plumage. The plumber replaced the lead
n pipes in the Davidsons’ house with
/ SplUrEsG / plucky copper ones.
Gk > L > F > E adj
inflammation of the membrane / SplEkG / plummet
lining the chest cavity and E + Ecf
enveloping the lungs. having or marked by courage : plurality
Pleurisy, causing fluid to spirited, brave, resolute. n
accumulate in Zachary’s chest Henry was plucky enough to get / plVSralEZG /
cavity, further complicated his back on his bicycle although he had L
pneumonia. just fallen for the seventh time. a number of votes cast for a
candidate in a contest of more than
pleuston plumage two candidates that is greater than
n n the number cast for any other
/ SplVstEn / / SplVmij / candidate but not more than half
Gk L>F>E the total votes cast.
small but macroscopic floating the entire clothing of feathers of a Because all three candidates have
organisms that form mats or layers bird. strong voter support, the number of
on or near the surface of a body of The plumage of the male peacock is votes cast for the winner will
water. more colorful than that of the probably be a plurality, not a
The mat of pleuston floating in the female. majority.
swamp consists mostly of green
algae. plumassier plutology
n n
plexus / TplVmESsi(E)r / / plVStBlEjG /
n F Gk + Gk
/ SpleksEs / one who prepares or deals in the scientific study of wealth :
L ornamental plumes or feathers. theoretical economics.
an intricately interwoven The plumassier showed DeeDee a Jeremy is using his expertise in
combination of elements or parts in boa that complemented her recital plutology to study emerging
a cohering structure. costume perfectly. democracies.
The transportation board carefully
mapped out the plexus of commuter plumbeous pluvioscope
paths across the city. adj n
/ SplEmbGEs / / SplVvGETskPp /
pliant L L + Gk > L
adj having a dull gray color like that of rain gauge.
/ SplIEnt / lead. Johnny ordered a pluvioscope from
F>E The plumbeous core of a so-called the scientific catalog.
flexible, workable, lithe. “lead pencil” is graphite.
To make his catcher’s mitt more pneumatic
pliant, Gary smeared shaving gel adj
on it and baked it at a low / n(y)VSmaZik /
temperature. Gk
[has homonym: neumatic] adapted
for holding compressed air :
inflated with air.
The development of the pneumatic
tire was a major advance for the
bicycle.
Page 250 of 349

pneumatography poignant polarize
adj v
poacher / SpOin(y)Ent / / SpPlETrIz /
n L>F>E L>F
/ SpPchE(r) / painfully sharp with regard to the cause (as light waves) to vibrate in
Gmc > F > E feelings : piercing, keen. a definite pattern.
one who kills or takes wild animals Emma’s distress was not poignant Sunglasses that polarize light
(as game or fish) illegally. enough to keep her from falling reflected off water help the wearer
The sign at the reservation stated asleep, and she awoke feeling see into the water.
that any poacher would be somewhat more hopeful.
prosecuted to the fullest extent of polder
the law. poinciana n
n / SpPldE(r) /
podiatrist / TpOin(t)sGSanE / Gk
n F name + Lcf a tract of low land reclaimed from
/ pESdIEtrDst / an ornamental tropical tree or shrub the sea or other body of water.
Gk having bright orange or red Leanne and Amy scoured the
one who practices the care and flowers. polder for fossils.
treatment of the human foot in While in southern Florida, Jake
health and disease. was impressed by the fiery flowers polemic
The podiatrist recommended that of the poinciana. adj
Carlita get special inserts for her / pESlemik /
shoes. poinsettia Gk
n of, relating to, or of the nature of a
poetaster / pOinSseZGE / controversial discussion or
n American name argument.
/ SpPDZTastE(r) / a showy Mexican and South Try as he might, Rupert could not
L American plant with tapering prevent the conversation from
a writer of worthless or inferior scarlet petallike leaves that turning into a polemic debate.
verses. surround small yellow flowers.
The poetaster spewed out poem The delivery woman brought a polemology
after poem, each worse than the poinsettia to Karen’s door. n
last. / (T)pPlESmBlEjG /
poise Gk + Gk > E
poetic the study of war.
adj poised In polemology, military and naval
/ pPSeZik / adj strategies are studied and
Gk / SpOizd / discussed.
of or relating to poets. L > F > E + Ecf
Ovid tried to become a lawyer marked by easy composure of polemoscope
early in life, but his true and manner or bearing. n
natural poetic character would not The poised skater performed her / pPSlemETskPp /
be suppressed. routine with great precision and Gk
self-assurance. an opera or field glass with an
pogonip oblique mirror arranged for seeing
n poisonous objects not directly before the eye.
/ SpBgETnip / adj The detective used a polemoscope
Paiute / SpOiz(F)nEs / to observe the suspect
a dense winter fog containing L > F > E + Ecf unobtrusively.
frozen particles that is formed in having the qualities or effects of a
deep mountain valleys of the toxin. policize
western United States. The mushrooms looked and tasted
The dense pogonip leaves a sheath great but were devastatingly
of frost crystals on every shrub and poisonous.
blade of grass.
Page 251 of 349

poliomyelitis pollute polyester
n n
/ TpPlGPTmIESlIZDs / polonaise / SpBlGTestEr /
Gk n Gk
an acute infectious viral disease / TpBlESnCz / a synthetic fiber consisting wholly
characterized by fever, motor L geog name > Pol > F or chiefly of a complex ester
paralysis, and atrophy of skeletal a stately Polish processional dance formed by polymerization.
muscles often with permanent fashionable in 19th-century Europe. Bridget bought the loudest
disability and deformity. Chopin wrote many compositions polyester jacket she could find at
Up to about 40 years ago, based on the rhythm of the the thrift store to wear on
poliomyelitis often meant a lifetime polonaise. Halloween.
on crutches or in an iron lung.
poltergeist polygamous
poliosis n
n / SpPltE(r)TgIst / polyglot
/ TpPlGSPsDs / G adj
Gk a noisy and usually mischievous / SpBlGTglBt /
loss of color from the hair. ghost. Gk
One of the effects of the disease Our favorite Halloween story is containing matter in several
was poliosis. about a poltergeist who tormented languages; especially : composed
the tenants of a house in which of correlative text in several
politesse there had previously been a languages often arranged in parallel
n murder. columns.
/ TpBlEStes / Products sold in electronics stores
L>F poltroon often have polyglot instructions.
formal and cultivated politeness.
The ambassador greatly enjoyed poltroonery polygonal
the diplomatic world of pomp and n adj
politesse. / pBlStrVn(E)rG / / pESligEnFl /
L > It > F Gk
polka cowardice. having many sides.
n The historian said that poltroonery Mr. Ewing taught his math class
/ SpPlkE / among politicians in an election how to find the areas of polygonal
Pol > Czech year is not uncommon. figures.
a lively Bohemian dance in fast
duple time that consists of three polychrest polyphagism
steps and a hop. n
Gwen taught her dance students the polychromatic / pESlifETjizEm /
polka. adj Gk
/ TpBlGkrPSmaZik / the habit of feeding on a variety of
pollen Gk plants or animals.
n showing a variety or a change of By feeding various kinds of foods to
/ SpBlEn / colors : multicolored. the insects, the researcher could
L It is not unusual for people to drive discover which ones exhibited
the fine, dustlike mass of grains by Sarah’s house simply to admire polyphagism.
produced by seed plants. its polychromatic brickwork.
Many hay fever sufferers are
bothered by ragweed pollen. polydactyly
n
pollutant / TpBlGSdaktElG /
n Gk + Gk
/ pESlVtFnt / the condition of having more than
L the normal number of toes or
any substance that makes the air or fingers.
water impure or unclean. The Ernest Hemingway Home and
Ethylene gas is a pollutant Museum on Key West is home to
associated with industrial approximately 60 cats, about half
manufacturing and automobile of which exhibit polydactyly.
exhaust.
Page 252 of 349

polysaccharide pomegranate porcelain
n n n
/ TpBlGSsakETrId / / SpBm(E)TgranDt / / SpPrs(E)lDn /
Gk L>F>E+L L > It > F
a carbohydrate that can be a thick-skinned several-celled [has near homonym: purslane] a
decomposed by hydrolysis into two reddish berry that is about the size hard, fine-grained, white ceramic
or more molecules of of an orange and has many seeds in ware that has a hard paste body, is
monosaccharides or their a crimson acid pulp. fired at a high temperature, and is
derivatives; especially : one of the The bright red splotches on Julia’s used especially for table and
more complex carbohydrates (as hands testified to her having eaten ornamental wares.
starch or cellulose). a pomegranate. Many old houses have doorknobs
Cellulose is the polysaccharide made of porcelain.
providing the chief constituent of pomological
the framework of plants. adj porcine
/ TpPmESlBjDkEl /
polysemous Gk > L porcinely
adj of or relating to the science of the adv
/ TpBlGSsGmEs / cultivation of fruits. / SpOrTsInlG /
Gk + Gk Certainly in the pomological sense, L + Ecf
having many meanings. one bad apple eventually spoils the swinishly.
Puns are based on the humorous whole bunch. In Wanda’s opinion, Bart treated
use of polysemous words. his hosts porcinely.
pompadour
polysyllabic n porcupine
adj / SpBmpETdP(E)r / n
/ TpBlGsDSlabik / F name / SpOrkyETpIn /
Gk > L + Ecf a man’s style of hairdressing in L > It > F > E
having three or usually four or which the hair is combed back so any of various relatively large
more units of spoken language. as to stand up straight. rodents having stiff sharp erectile
Martha often uses polysyllabic Chuck spent an hour in front of the bristles mingled with the hair.
words to impress her teachers. mirror preening his pompadour. The yelping dog’s snout was
covered with quills from a
pomaceous pompous porcupine.
pomade ponderous porphyry

n adj n
/ pESmBd / / SpBnd(E)rEs / / SpO(r)fErG /
L > It > F L>F>E Gk > L
a perfumed ointment. unwieldy or clumsy because of an Egyptian rock consisting of
Mr. Underwood was partial to weight and size. feldspar crystals embedded in a
sweet-smelling pomade. Roy could barely lift the ponderous dark red or purple groundmass
ancient weapon. much used by the ancient Romans.
pomander At the archaeological dig Carlo
n pontificalibus unearthed a broken urn made of
/ pPSmandE(r) / porphyry.
L>F>E pontificate
a mixture of perfumed or aromatic v porpoise
substances usually made in a ball / pBnStifETkCt / n
and enclosed in a perforated bag or L / SpOrpEs /
box. deliver oracular utterances or L>F>E
Gayle included a pomander in the dogmatic opinions. a small, friendly whale with teeth
chest containing her winter clothes. Randy proceeded to pontificate for and a short, rounded snout and that
five minutes on the dangers of somewhat resembles a dolphin.
listening to loud music. Miles saw a porpoise at the
aquarium.
populous
Page 253 of 349

porraceous portrayal postcibal
adj n adj
/ pOSrCshEs / / pPrStrC(E)l / / pPs(t)SsIbEl /
L L>F>E L
having the clear light green color of the act of representing something in occurring after a meal.
leek leaves. a drawing or painting. George and Harriet hired a
The deep green of the kitchen Vincent used witnesses’ vocalist for the banquet’s postcibal
countertops seemed to tint the walls descriptions in his portrayal of the entertainment.
a porraceous color. criminal.
posterity
porridge posology n
n n / pBSsterEZG /
/ SpOrij / / pESsBlEjG / L>F>E
F>E Gk all succeeding generations : future
a soft food made by boiling grains a branch of medical science time.
or legumes in milk or water until concerned with dosage. The seventh grade class put
thick. Derek took several classes in together a time capsule for
The campers were extremely posology for his pharmacy degree. posterity.
hungry, and each consumed a large
bowl of porridge. posse postern
n n
porringer / SpBsG / / SpPstE(r)n /
L L>F>E
portcullis a detachment or body (as of police) a back door or gate.
n often assigned to or brought The thief escaped through the
/ pPrtSkElDs / together because of a particular postern without being detected.
F>E emergency.
a large grating of iron bars or heavy Noah’s favorite part of westerns is posthumous
timbers suspended by chains over when the marshal and his posse adj
the gateway of a fortified place and corner the bandit. / SpBschEmEs /
lowered between grooves to L
prevent passage. possessed published after the death of the
The guard quickly lowered the v author.
portcullis after the king and his / pESzest / Ironically, the novelist’s
knights had passed through the L posthumous works were his most
gate. influenced or controlled by popular.
something (as an evil spirit or a
portentous passion). postprandial
adj During the race the winning horse adj
/ TpOrStentEs / ran as if he were possessed by a / TpPs(t)SprandGEl /
L demon. L>E
of, relating to, or constituting of, relating to, or occurring in the
something that foreshadows a possessor period after a meal.
coming event : ominous. After the huge dinner, George and
Oliver’s dream proved portentous. posset Barbara decided to take a leisurely
v postprandial walk.
portiere / SpBsDt /
E posttension
portmanteau [has near homonym: posit] pamper v
n with delicacies. / pPs(t)StenchEn /
/ pPrtSmant(T)P / Aunt Mimi expects everyone to L+L
L>F posset Pedro, her chihuahua. apply stress to (reinforcing steel)
a large traveling bag. after concrete has set.
The clown removed an enormous The construction crew will
pumpkin from his portmanteau. posttension the steel in the
columns.
portraiture
Page 254 of 349

postulate potpourri praline
n n n
/ SpBschElDt / / TpPpESrG / / SprBTlGn /
L F F name
an underlying hypothesis or a jar of flower petals mixed with a round patty of creamy brown
assumption. spices and used for scent or sugar containing pecan meats.
Most cosmologists base their work perfume. The praline is a favorite candy of
upon the postulate of the Big Bang. Stella kept a potpourri on her the southern United States.
kitchen windowsill.
posture precaution
n poultice
/ SpBschE(r) / n precautionary
L / SpPltDs / adj
characteristic position or bearing of L / prGSkOshETnerG /
the body. a soft mass usually heated and L
A dancer’s posture is as important spread on cloth for application to advising, suggesting, or using
in ballroom dancing as it is in inflamed areas to supply moist caution beforehand.
ballet. warmth, relieve pain, or act as a Vaccinating children against polio
counterirritant. is a wise precautionary measure.
potable Aunt Julia’s remedy for rashes or
adj skin problems of any sort is a precedent
/ SpPZEbEl / mustard poultice. n
L / SpresEdEnt /
suitable, safe, or prepared for poultry L
drinking. something done or said that may
Chemicals are often added to water pourboire serve as an example or rule to
supplies to make them potable. n authorize or justify a subsequent
/ pUrbSwBr / act of the same or an analogous
potamology L>F kind.
a tip or gratuity. As far as Sasha knew, the decision
potassium When he checked out of the hotel, to allow a girl to play on the
n Jonathan left a pourboire for the football team was without
/ pEStasGEm / chambermaid. precedent.
L
an element of the alkali metal pourparler precept
group. n
Bananas and potatoes are good poussette / SprGTsept /
dietary sources of potassium. v L
/ pVSset / a command or principle intended as
potatoes F a general rule of action.
n pl swing in a semicircle hands joined Mark owes his success to the
/ pEStCZPz / with one’s partner. precept that it never hurts to ask a
Taino > Sp The caller instructed the couples to question.
the edible starchy tubers of plants poussette before changing partners.
of the genus genus Solanum and precibal
species tuberosum. poussin adj
For dinner Harry made roast beef n / prGSsIbEl /
and baked potatoes. / pVSsaM / L
L>F occurring before meals.
potentate a young chicken of about one The host graciously proposed a
n pound weight for table use : a small precibal toast to the guest of honor.
/ SpPtFnTtCt / broiler.
L Celeste was not sure how to season
one who possesses great power or and cook a poussin, so she
sway : ruler. consulted a cookbook by Julia
Barry acts more like a potentate Child.
than a leader in his role as class
president.
Page 255 of 349

precinct An insect may be of value because prejudicial
n it is a predator on another insect adj
/ SprGTsiN(k)t / that is a pest to humans. / TprejESdishEl /
L>E L>E
a part of a territory (as a city) predecessor leading to premature judgment or
having definite bounds or functions n unwarranted opinion.
and often established for / SpredETsesE(r) / The jury was sequestered in order
administrative purposes. L to prevent exposure to any
In this precinct voters cast their one who comes before in order of prejudicial material.
ballots at the middle school. time; especially : a person who has
previously occupied a position or preliminary
preciosity office to which another has n
succeeded. / prDSlimEnerG /
precipice The employees are hoping that the L
n new CEO is more labor-friendly something introductory or
/ SpresEpDs / than his predecessor. preparatory.
L As a preliminary to a video there is
a very steep, perpendicular, or predestine usually a warning regarding its
overhanging place (as the face of a use.
cliff). predilection
Just looking down from the n premeditation
precipice made Gloria dizzy. / TpredFlSekshEn / n
L / prGTmedEStCshEn /
precipitately inclination, liking, preference. L
Moira has a predilection for consideration or planning of an act
precisionist bittersweet chocolate. beforehand that shows intent to
commit that act.
precocious preeminent The prosecutor’s position is that
adj the accused killer acted with
precocity / TprGSemEnEnt / premeditation and thus should be
n L charged with first-degree murder.
/ prGSkBsEZG / having paramount rank, dignity, or
L importance : first, outstanding, premonition
exceptionally early or premature supreme. n
development; especially : early The attorney introduced her expert / TpremESnishEn /
development of the mental powers. witness as the preeminent L
The precocity of five-year-old researcher in his field. anticipation of an event without
Stella becomes evident after just a conscious reason.
few minutes of talking with her. preen Yolanda had a premonition that she
v would win the lottery.
preconceive / SprGn /
E prepollent
precursor trim or dress with or as if with the
n beak or the tongue. preposterous
/ prGSkErsEr / Kitty liked to sit and preen herself
L in the afternoon sun. prerogative
one that precedes another in an n
office or process : forerunner. prefatorily / prGSrBgEZiv /
Greek geometry was the precursor L
to modern calculus. preferential a special right or privilege
belonging to a person, group, or
precursory class of individuals.
It is the prerogative of the president
predator of the United States to have Air
n Force One at his disposal.
/ SpredEZE(r) /
L presage
an animal that preys on or devours
other animals for its food. presbyter
Page 256 of 349

prescience presume primitive
n v adj
/ SprGsh(G)En(t)s / / prGSz(y)Vm / / SprimEZiv /
L L&F > E L
the human faculty or quality of accept as true or credible without of or relating to the earliest age or
being able to anticipate the proof. period of something.
occurrence or nature of future If it rains that day, Nancy will Primitive humans fashioned tools
events : foresight. presume that our tennis game will from rocks.
In 1955 the city authorities had the be postponed.
prescience to set aside land for a primordial
future park site. pretentious adj
adj / prISmO(r)dGEl /
prescient / prGStenchEs / L
adj L>F existing at or from the beginning :
/ SprGsh(G)Ent / making or possessing claims (as of first created or developed : earliest,
L excellence, superiority, greatness). primeval.
having foreknowledge : The pretentious candidate found Blake’s story depicted a creature
characterized by foresight. little support among the common emerging from the primordial ooze.
Carrie seemed unusually prescient people.
as she sat smugly under her principal
umbrella on what was once a clear preterition adj
afternoon. n / Sprin(t)sEpEl /
/ TpreZESrishEn / L
presentient L [has homonym: principle] most
adj the act or an instance of passing by important, consequential, or
/ prGSsenchEnt / or over without mention, notice, or influential.
L attention. The map showed principal roads,
apprehensive in advance : feeling “I won’t even mention his lesser towns and cities, and locations of
or perceiving beforehand. crimes,” cried the orator in historic sites.
Kate was presentient of her lost preterition.
dog’s return. pristine
prevalent adj
prestidigitation / SpriTstGn /
prevaricate L
prestidigitator v belonging to the earliest period or
n / prGSvarETkCt / state.
/ TprestESdijETtCdE(r) / L The antique chest was in pristine
L&F&It deviate from the truth : speak condition.
a performer of sleight of hand. equivocally or evasively : lie.
The prestidigitator mystified the Emmy tends to prevaricate private
children by making cards appear whenever the teacher questions her
and disappear. behavior. privilege
n
presumably priest / Spriv(E)lij /
adv n L
/ prGSz(y)VmEblG / / SprGst / a peculiar or personal advantage or
L Gk > L > E right.
by reasonable assumption : one who performs sacrificial, Mr. Neng grants his neighbors the
probably. ritualistic, mediatorial, privilege of fishing in his pond.
Mrs. Janko is presumably going to interpretative, or ministerial
the Christmas party this year. functions especially as an proaulion
authorized or ordained religious n
functionary or official minister of a / prPSOlGEn /
particular religion. Gk
A Greek Orthodox priest, unlike a a portico or colonnade that opens
Catholic priest, is allowed to be into the narthex of a church or
married. temple.
Pine garlands adorned the
primaveral proaulion.
Page 257 of 349

proboscis procurable profuse
n adj
/ prPSbBsDs / prodigal / prESfyVs /
Gk > L adj L
the flexible conspicuously long / SprBdDgEl / overly plentiful : bountiful.
snout of some animals; especially : L + Ecf Buttons on the entertainer’s suit
the trunk of an elephant. given to reckless extravagance. were so profuse that not another
An elephant’s proboscis can Victor has written a memoir of his one could be placed anywhere.
support great weight. prodigal youth in Europe.
progenitor
probouleutic prodigious n
adj / prPSjenEZE(r) /
procedure / prESdijEs / L
n L an ancestor in the direct line :
/ prESsGjEr / extraordinary in bulk, extent, forefather.
L>F>E quantity, or degree : enormous, Tad assumed his unusual height
a particular way of doing or of immense. was inherited from a particularly
going about the accomplishment of The public works crews were tall progenitor.
something. complimented for coping with this
Even though he carefully followed year’s prodigious job of snow progeny
all the steps in the procedure, Jack plowing.
still couldn’t retrieve his messages. prognosis
producible n
proceed / prBgSnPsDs /
proem Gk
procellous n the act or art of foretelling the
adj / SprPTem / course of a disease.
/ prPSselEs / Gk > L > F > E Although the patient’s surgery was
L a preliminary discourse to a longer touch and go, Dr. Symm’s
stormy. piece of writing. prognosis was for complete
There are many dangers for a small The excited scholar was sure he recovery.
boat on a procellous sea. had found a previously unknown
proem to Plato’s Republic. prognostication
proclivity
n profane prognosticator
/ prPSklivEZG / v n
L / prPSfCn / / (T)prBgSnBstETkCZE(r) /
an inclination or predisposition L L
toward something. treat as not sacred : desecrate. one that forecasts from signs or
After spending a couple of days in Michael was told sternly not to indications.
Las Vegas, Conan decided he had profane the holy water font by The local prognosticator predicted
no proclivity for gambling. throwing pennies in it. a balmy spring weekend.
procrustean profiterole prolegomenon

adj n
/ prPSkrEstGEn / profligacy / TprPlESgBmETnBn /
Gk name > L n Gk
marked by complete disregard of / SprBflDgEsG / a reading or group of readings or
individual differences and by L intellectual exercises leading to
violent forcing into conformity reckless wastefulness and further understanding,
with something. extravagance. development, or advance in
The principal’s procrustean Arno’s profligacy during his knowledge or technique in a
attitude left no room for a student sophomore year caused him to subject matter field.
government at the school. forfeit his scholarship. Dr. Taylor’s course in art history
constituted a carefully planned
proctor prolegomenon for students who
would be choosing art as their
procumbent major.
Page 258 of 349

proletarian promontory propagate
adj n v
/ TprPlESterGEn / / SprBmEnTtPrG / / SprBpETgCt /
L L L
of, relating to, or representative of a high point of land projecting into cause to spread out and affect a
the lowest social or economic class a body of water. greater number or greater area :
of a community. The architect designed a home that foster the spread of.
Gina’s proletarian background blended in with the rocky Chris uses e-mail to propagate
proved to be an asset in her promontory. news among his friends.
campaign for mayor.
promulgate propensity
proliferation v n
/ SprBmElTgCt / / prESpen(t)sEZG /
prolific L L
adj make known (as a decree, a dogma) a natural inclination.
/ prESlifDk / by open declaration : proclaim. Most cats have a propensity to be
L>F The high school principal curious.
occurring or existing in large attempted to promulgate the
numbers : abundant, profuse. attendance policy many times, but propinquity
The article’s prolific footnotes the seniors mostly ignored him. n
hampered rather than aided Tina’s / prPSpiNkwEZG /
comprehension. pronounceable L
adj nearness in place : proximity.
prolix / prESnaUn(t)sEbEl / The roots of the trees in close
adj L > F > E + Ecf propinquity to the new sidewalk
/ SprPTliks / capable of being pronounced. will soon ruin it.
L A word that Dr. Cameron finds
given to verbosity and diffuseness easily pronounceable could tie your propitiate
in speaking or writing : long- tongue into knots.
winded. propitious
Quentin’s prolix style was not well propaedeutic adj
suited to a short-answer exam. adj / prESpishEs /
/ TprPpGSd(y)VZik / L>E
prolonger Gk being of good omen : auspicious,
n needed as preparation for learning encouraging, favorable.
/ prESlONE(r) / or study. Ray’s perfect score on his science
L>E Reading is a propaedeutic skill. test was a propitious start for the
one who lengthens in time, extends new school year.
in duration, or draws out. propaganda
Dr. Murphy kept his remarks short n propolis
because he did not want to be the / TprBpESgandE / n
prolonger of the meeting. L / SprBpElDs /
dissemination of ideas, Gk > L
prolusory information, or rumor for the a brownish resinous material of
purpose of helping or injuring an waxy consistency collected by bees
promenade institution, a cause, or a person. from the buds of trees and used as a
n In 1941 President Roosevelt cement.
/ TprBmESnCd / warned that the democratic way of A honeycomb is constructed from
L>F life was being assailed by secret beeswax and propolis.
a leisurely walk or ride especially spreading of poisonous
in a public place for pleasure, propaganda. proportion
display, or exercise. n
After the meeting Gilda and Jaime / prESpPrshEn /
took a promenade down Main L
Street. relative size or portion.
The proportion of local, domestic,
prominent and foreign news varies
considerably on television.
Page 259 of 349

proposition prosciutto prospicience
n n n
/ TprBpESzishEn / / prPSshVZ(T)P / / prPSspishEn(t)s /
L L > It L
a project, plan, undertaking, or dry-cured spiced ham. the act of looking forward :
situation requiring some action. Melon slices wrapped in prosciutto foresight.
The highway superintendent make a classic appetizer. Qualities associated with
presented his proposition for spring leadership usually include
street repair to the mayor. proselyte prospicience.
n
proprietor / SprBsETlIt / protagonist
Gk > L n
propulsion one who has been converted from / prPStagEnDst /
one religious faith to another. Gk
prorogue Edith Stein, canonized in 1998 as one who takes the leading part in a
v Saint Teresa Benedicta of the drama.
/ prPSrPg / Cross, was a proselyte to The protagonist was portrayed with
L>F Catholicism. his faults as well as his virtues.
defer, postpone.
Parliament decided to prorogue proselyting protean
discussion of the bill until after the v adj
election. / SprBsETlItiN / / SprPZGEn /
Gk Gk name
prosaical recruiting members for an [has near homonym: protein]
adj institution, team, or group readily assuming different shapes
/ prPSzCDkEl / especially by the offer of special or forms.
L inducements. An amoeba is a protean organism.
of, relating to, or written in the Though it does not engage in
ordinary language of speaking and proselyting, the college usually protocol
writing. turns out fine basketball teams. n
Jonathan’s Veteran’s Day poem / SprPZETkOl /
was more memorable than the prosody Gk + Gk
major’s 20-minute prosaical n a rigid long-established code
speech. / SprBsEdG / prescribing complete deference to
Gk superior rank and strict adherence
prosateur the study of versification. to due order of precedence and
n The prosody of Horace’s first ten precisely correct procedure.
/ TprPzEStEr / odes was Humbert’s downfall on Lieutenant Griffin was censured for
L > It > F the exam. violating protocol after he got up in
a writer of prose. the middle of the meal without
Scott’s fountain pen belonged to a prospectus excusing himself.
famous prosateur of the 19th n
century. / prESspektEs / protuberant
L
proscenium a preliminary printed statement provenance
n describing a business or other n
/ prESsGnGEm / enterprise and distributed to / SprBvEnEn(t)s /
Gk potential buyers, investors, or L
the wall that separates the stage participants. place of origin.
from the auditorium in a modern According to the prospectus, the The lecturer maintained that Africa
theater. scooter market increased threefold was the provenance of all human
An apron stage juts out from the in the last year. life.
proscenium.
Page 260 of 349

provincial psalmody psychiatry
adj n n
/ prESvinchEl / / SsB(l)mEdG / / sDSkIEtrG /
L Gk Gk + L
exhibiting the ways and manners of the act, practice, or art of singing a branch of medicine that deals
a province or rural district : sacred songs in worship. with the science of treating mental,
unsophisticated. Although the New England emotional, or behavioral disorders.
Katie’s open midwestern Puritans did away with church The concept of multiple
friendliness was labeled organs and instruments, they kept personalities is of special interest
“provincial” by the snooty big city their psalmody. to Helen, who plans to pursue a
dwellers. career in psychiatry.
psilanthropy
proviso n psychological
n / sISlan(t)thrEpG /
/ prESvI(T)zP / Gk + Gk psychomachy
L a doctrine of the merely human n
an article or clause (as in a statute, existence of Christ. / sISkBmEkG /
contract, or grant) that introduces a A well-known subscriber to Gk > L
condition, qualification, or psilanthropy was Thomas a conflict of the soul (as with the
limitation and usually begins with Jefferson, who regarded Jesus as a body or between good and evil).
the word provided. great moral teacher but not as a Countless novels have as their
The grant’s proviso was that the divine being. theme the psychomachy within the
money would be awarded only if hero as he struggles to do right.
the student maintained an A psilosis
average in his studies. n psychrometer
/ sISlPsDs / n
provost Gk / sISkrBmEZE(r) /
n a falling out of hair. Gk + Gk
/ SprPTvPst / Jerome’s psilosis was a side effect a hygrometer whose operation
L>E of chemotherapy. depends on two similar
a high-ranking administrative thermometers with the bulb of one
officer of an American university. psoriasis being kept wet so that it is cooled
Professor Myers met with the as a result of evaporation and
provost to discuss the new psyche shows a temperature lower than
curriculum. n that of the dry-bulb thermometer.
/ SsI(T)kG / Greg built a crude psychrometer
prowess Gk out of two old thermometers and
n soul, self, personality. some cotton gauze.
/ SpraUDs / Brianna loves music so much that
F>E she considers it part of her psyche. psychrophilic
distinguished bravery : gallantry. adj
The knight’s prowess on the psychedelic / TsIkrPSfilik /
battlefield was surpassed only by adj Gk
the king’s. / TsIkESdelik / thriving at a relatively low
Gk + Gk temperature.
proximity very bright in color. The psychrophilic bacteria died
n Kate showed Mary a psychedelic when the refrigerator’s compressor
/ prBkSsimEZG / Peter Max poster she had saved as failed.
L>F a memento of the ’60s.
the quality or state of being close. ptarmic
The Fletchers bought the house on n
Vine Street because of its proximity / StBrmik /
to neighborhood schools. Gk > L
a substance that causes sneezing.
prudent Andrea is extremely allergic to
dust, an everpresent ptarmic
prytanis difficult for her to avoid.
Page 261 of 349

ptarmigan pucellas puissant
n n pl adj
/ StBrmDgEn / / pyESselEs / / SpyVEsFnt /
ScotGael It F
any of various grouses of northern a spring tool resembling tongs and strong, powerful.
regions having completely used for shaping molten glass. Enduring Adria’s piano practice
feathered feet. With the pucellas the glassblower called on all of her mother’s
“Why did the ptarmigan cross the grasped the lip of the vase and puissant patience.
road?” asked Martha. turned it over in a graceful curve.
pulchritude
pteridology puchero
n pullulate
pterodactyl / pVScheTrP / v
n L > Sp / SpElyETlCt /
/ TterESdaktDl / a Latin American boiled dinner or L
Gk stew containing beef, sausage, swarm, teem.
any of numerous extinct flying bacon, and various vegetables. At rush hour the train station began
reptiles having a featherless wing Olivia sampled puchero at an to pullulate with activity.
membrane and a rudimentary tail. Argentine restaurant.
The museum’s dinosaur exhibit pulmonary
includes a mechanical replica of a puerile adj
pterodactyl. adj / SpUlmETnerG /
/ SpyU(E)rEl / L
ptomaine L of, relating to, or associated with
n childish or immature. the lungs.
/ StPTmCn / Mrs. Yolton was not impressed by Uncle Rob’s pulmonary disease
Gk > It Tommy’s puerile behavior. requires that he breathe pure
any of various organic bases some oxygen at all times.
of which are poisonous and which puerilely
are formed by the action of adv pulsatile
putrefactive bacteria on / SpyU(E)rEl(l)G / adj
nitrogenous matter. L + Ecf / SpElsEZFl /
About three hours after he had [Note: Could be confused with L
eaten, Dunstan realized that his purely.] in an immature or childish beating, throbbing.
lunch had been tainted with manner. The heart is a pulsatile muscular
ptomaine. Hunter reacted puerilely when his organ that maintains the flow of
mother told him it was time for bed. blood.
ptosis
n pugilist pultaceous
/ StPsDs / n adj
Gk / SpyVjElDst / / TpElStCshEs /
[has near homonym: tussis] a L+E L + Ecf
sagging or prolapse of an organ or a professional boxer. having a consistency like that of
part; specifically : drooping of the Years as a pugilist took their toll on porridge.
upper eyelid. Leo’s coordination. Serena dislikes rice pudding
The film star had a clear case of because of its pultaceous
ptosis. pugilistic consistency.
publication pugnacious pulverize

adj
puce / pEgSnCshEs / pulverulent
L adj
having a quarrelsome or belligerent / pElSveryElEnt /
nature. L
Bushpigs are pugnacious enough to consisting of or reducible to fine
put up a fight against a leopard. powder.
Chalk is a pulverulent deposit of
puissance calcium carbonate.
Page 262 of 349

pumice purlieu putrescent
n n adj
/ SpEmDs / / SpErl(T)yV / / pyVStresFnt /
L F L
[has homonyms: pomace and a place of resort : haunt. decaying, rotting.
pumace] hardened volcanic froth. Vince can be found most evenings The disagreeable odor was coming
Ground pumice is sometimes used in the local pool hall, his favorite from the putrescent skunk carcass.
as an abrasive ingredient in soap. purlieu.
putrid
pumpernickel purloin adj
n v / SpyVtrDd /
/ SpEmpE(r)TnikEl / / pE(r)SlOin / L
G L>F>E in an advanced state of
a sourdough bread made with rye appropriate wrongfully and often decomposition : rotten.
and wheat flours. under circumstances that involve a The putrid heap of kitchen scraps
Sam’s favorite sandwich is ham breach of trust. will compost in no time.
and Swiss on pumpernickel. The district manager was fired
when he was caught trying to putsch
punchinello purloin company earnings. n
/ SpUch /
punctilious purportedly imit G
adj a secretly plotted and suddenly
/ TpEN(k)StilGEs / pursued executed attempt to overthrow a
L government or governing body.
marked by precise exact pursuer The right-wing nationalist group
accordance with the details of n plotted a putsch for early
codes or conventions. / pE(r)SsVE(r) / September.
Inflexible people often pay E
punctilious attention to rules of one that chases or follows after. putty
etiquette. By the middle of the race, Gail had n
outdistanced her nearest pursuer / SpEZG /
punctual by two yards. F
adj [has homonym: puttee] a cement
/ SpEN(k)ch(Ew)El / purveyor usually made of whiting and boiled
L n linseed oil beaten or kneaded to the
marked by exact adherence to an / pE(r)SvCE(r) / consistency of dough and used in
appointed time. L>F>E fastening glass in sashes and
Everybody was punctual for the one who provides supplies of food stopping crevices in woodwork.
wedding, and all behaved or whose business is to make The window repairman smoothed
charmingly. provisions for the table : caterer. the new putty and inserted the
The reception was delayed because double-paned glass into the sash.
punctuation the purveyor got stuck in traffic.
puzzling
punditry pusillanimous adj
adj / SpEz(E)liN /
pungent / TpyVsESlanEmEs / unknown + Ecf
adj L mystifying : difficult to understand.
/ SpEnjEnt / lacking or showing a lack of The puzzling directions in the
L courage, manly strength, and instruction manual rendered it
causing a sharp sensation : resolution : marked by mean- useless.
pricking, irritating, acrid. spirited and contemptible timidity.
The pungent odor of wet dog sent Edgar never forgave his brother’s
the guests out for fresh air. pusillanimous desertion during the
war.
punishment
punitive
purgatory
Page 263 of 349

pylon pyrosis quadrangle
n n n
/ SpITlBn / / pISrPsDs / / SkwBTdraNgEl /
Gk Gk L>F>E
a tower for supporting either end of heartburn. a square or rectangular enclosure or
a wire over a long span. Gill had a wicked case of pyrosis court especially when surrounded
The steel pylon at the north end of after eating at Billy Joe Bob’s Char by buildings (as in some schools
the footbridge was showing and Grill. and colleges).
dangerous signs of wear. Norm sailed a pie tin across the
pyrotechnics quadrangle.
pylorus n pl
n / TpIrEStekniks / quadrant
/ pISlPrEs / Gk
Gk > L a display of fireworks. quadrennial
the opening in a vertebrate from the The amusement park had a show
stomach into the intestine. including pyrotechnics every night. quadrilateral
The pylorus regulates the flow of n
food and liquid from the stomach. Pyrrhic / TkwBdrESlaZErEl /
adj L
pyramid / Spirik / a plane figure of four sides and
n Gk > L consequently four angles.
/ SpirETmid / [has homonym: pyric] of, relating The perimeter of a baseball
Gk to, or resembling that of Pyrrhus, a diamond forms a quadrilateral.
an ancient massive structure of king who sustained heavy losses in
huge stone blocks found especially defeating the Romans. quadrille
in Egypt having typically a square When the team’s star quarterback n
ground plan, outside walls in the broke his leg in the game it won / kwBSdril /
form of four triangles that meet in a against its toughest rival, the win F
point at the top, and inner was indeed a Pyrrhic victory. a four-handed form of a card game
sepulchral chambers. played throughout Europe in the
The sight of a pyramid on the pythonic 17th and 18th centuries.
desert horizon took Rico’s breath adj Mrs. Bates was a very old lady,
away. / pISthBnik / almost past everything but tea and
Gk > L quadrille.
pyre of, relating to, or like a python :
huge, monstrous. quadrumanous
pyrethrum In classical mythology, the god adj
n Apollo killed a pythonic serpent at / kwBSdrVmEnEs /
/ pISrGthrEm / Delphi. L
Gk > L having four hands.
any of various chrysanthemums quackery Luke complained that a bass player
with finely divided and often would have to be quadrumanous to
aromatic leaves. quadragenarian master the piece he was given to
The pyrethrum is a source of a n play.
natural insecticide. / TkwBdrEjDSna(a)rGEn /
L quagmire
pyretogenic a person who is 40 or more and less n
adj than 50 years old. / SkwagTmI(E)r /
/ TpirEtPSjenik / Evelyn became a grandmother unknown + ON > E
Gk while she was a quadragenarian. a complex or precarious position
inducing fever. where disengagement is difficult.
Because Jamie’s illness was not In his position as protocol officer,
pyretogenic, his mom did not Russell often found himself in a
initially believe that he was sick. quagmire of delicate relationships.
pyrite
Page 264 of 349

quail quarrel quebracho
n n
/ SkwCl / quarrelsome / kCSbra(T)chP /
L>F>E adj Sp
a migratory game bird of Europe, / SkwOr(E)lsEm / a tree that is native to Argentina
Asia, and Africa that is about seven L>F>E+E and is used as a source of tannin
inches long. apt or disposed to argue : and in dyeing.
The vintner decided to name his contentious. In Argentina grows the quebracho,
wine after the quail because the If Angie weren’t so quarrelsome, which literally means “ax-
birds were so plentiful on his she might have more friends. breaker,” so named because its
property. wood is so hard.
quarry
quaint quell
adj quartz
/ SkwCnt / quellable
L>F>E quash adj
uncommon, old-fashioned, or / SkwelEbEl /
unfamiliar but often agreeable or quasi E
attractive in character, appearance, capable of being quieted or allayed.
or action. quaternion The restless crowd proved
In the middle of the ultramodern n quellable at the sight of the
mall was a quaint tearoom that / kwEStErnGEn / entertainer they had come to see.
drew customers from miles around. L
a set of four parts, things, or quench
qualitative persons. v
adj The auto parts store offered a / Skwench /
/ SkwBlETtCZiv / special price on a quaternion of E
L tires. put out (as a fire or a light).
of, relating to, or involving quality For three days the firefighters tried
or kind. quatorzain to quench the blaze.
Although the essay was judged to n
be short quantitatively, it was a / kEStOrTzCn / quenelle
qualitative masterpiece. F n
a poem of 14 lines that resembles a / kESnel /
qualm sonnet but lacks strict sonnet G>F
structure. a ball or oval of meat stuffing
quandary When his English teacher was cooked in boiling water or stock
n satisfied with Walter’s quatorzain, and served as a garnish or as a
/ SkwBnd(E)rG / she encouraged him to write a separate dish.
unknown sonnet. Martha served a quenelle of
a state of perplexity or doubt : chicken in brown onion sauce as an
dilemma. quatrefoil appetizer.
Taylor’s advice left Miriam in more n
of a quandary than she was in / SkaZE(r)TfOil / quercitron
when she sought his help. F n
a conventionalized representation / SkwErTsitrEn /
quantum of a flower with four petals or of a L
leaf with four leaflets. a black oak or the bark of this tree
quaquaversal The Gothic window featured a used in tanning and dyeing.
adj quatrefoil at the top of its arch. When used as a dye, quercitron
/ TkwCkwESvErsEl / turns fabrics yellow.
L quay
dipping from a center to all points querimonious
of the compass. adj
From the air, the quaquaversal / TkwerESmPnGEs /
shape of the Indian mound could be L
seen. habitually complaining.
Luther was known for his
quarantine querimonious temperament.
Page 265 of 349

quern quiche quincunx
n n n
/ SkwErn / / SkGsh / / SkwinTkEN(k)s /
E G>F L
a primitive mill for grinding grain a baked custard pie usually having an arrangement of five things with
consisting of two circular stones an added savory ingredient (as one at each corner and one in the
with the upper one being turned by chopped ham, seafood, or middle of a square.
hand. vegetables). Any nine-block square of a
Some Tibetan villagers still grind Lois served soup and a seafood chessboard will include a quincunx
wheat into flour by using a quern. quiche for lunch today. of either black or white blocks.
querulous quiddity quinine

adj n n
/ Skwer(y)ElEs / / SkwidEZG / / SkwITnIn /
L L Quechua > Sp
expressing or suggestive of the essential nature or ultimate a bitter alkaloid derived from
complaint : fretful, whining. form of something. cinchona bark and used in medicine
As the crow fluttered from the tree, The photographer was noted for especially in the form of bitter salts
it gave a loud, querulous caw. her ability to capture the quiddity to reduce fever.
of her subjects. Quinine was a common remedy
querulously when Dr. Prentice was young.
quidnunc
query n quinquennial
/ SkwidTnENk / adj
quest L / kwinSkwenGEl /
n one that is avidly curious and given L+L
/ Skwest / to speculating especially about occurring at the end of every five
L>F>E ephemeral or petty things. years.
an act or instance of searching : Every neighborhood seems to have The philanthropist makes a
expedition, pursuit, venture. a quidnunc. quinquennial gift to the school.
In “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,”
the horseman rides forth to the quiescent quinsyberry
scene of battle in nightly quest of n
his head. quietus / SkwinzGTberG /
n Gk > L > F > E + E
question / kwISGZEs / an Old World black currant.
v L Edgar mashed a quinsyberry on his
/ Skwes(h)chEn / final discharge or acquittance (as sister’s new yellow dress.
L from debt or obligation) : final
express doubt about : dispute. settlement. quintessence
Corporal Sage decided he had to The judge is expected to rule n
question Sergeant McGonigle’s tomorrow on a quietus in Mr. / kwinStesFn(t)s /
orders. Ford’s civil case. L
the most typical example or
questionnaire quill representative : the consummate
n instance (as of a quality or class).
queue / Skwil / To be steadfast in the face of
E mortal danger is the quintessence
queuer a bird’s feather; especially : one of of courage.
the large stiff feathers of a bird’s
quibble wing or tail. quire
Jay found a beautiful quill and n
placed it alongside his mom’s / SkwI(E)r /
antique inkwell on her desk. L
four sheets (as of paper) folded
quincentennial together into eight leaves.
The teacher showed the second-
graders how to make a book from a
quire of paper.
Page 266 of 349

quirt quoits quotable
n n pl adj
/ SkwErt / / Sk(w)Oits / / SkwPZEbEl /
L > Sp F>E L
a riding whip with a short handle a game played with flattened rings fit to be repeated or published.
and a rawhide lash. of iron or circles of rope that are Tonya likes to highlight quotable
Eager to get home, Juanita urged thrown from a mark toward a pin in passages in the books she reads.
her horse on by using the quirt. an attempt to ring the pin or to
come as near to it as possible. quotation
quisling Jordan had never played quoits
n before but found it very similar to quotidian
/ SkwizliN / horseshoes. adj
Norw name / kwPStidGEn /
a traitorous national who aids the quokka L
invader of his country and often n commonplace, ordinary.
serves as chief agent or puppet / SkwBkE / Thelma rebelled against her
governor. Australian name quotidian existence.
Many French citizens thought that a stocky Australian reddish or
Marshal Petain, head of the Vichy chestnut brown wallaby with a quotient
regime during World War II, was short tail—called also “short-tailed n
little better than a quisling. wallaby.” / SkwPshEnt /
Meggie’s pet quokka wanted to L
quiver follow her everywhere. the number resulting from the
n division of one number by another.
/ SkwivE(r) / quomodo In the equation 48 ÷ by 4 = 12, 12
Gmc > F > AF > E n is the quotient.
[Note: The definition provided is / SkwPmETdP /
not the one most commonly L rabbinate
associated with this word.] a case means, manner.
for carrying arrows. Devon claims that he lacks the Rabelaisian
The archer slung his quiver over quomodo to repay Philip before adj
his shoulder and set out in search next month. / TrabESlCzGEn /
of deer. F name
quondam marked by or manifesting a gross
quixotic adj robust humor or extravagance of
/ SkwBndEm / caricature, characteristic of the
quizzical L French humorist François Rabelais.
having been formerly. In the 19th century many writers,
quizzically Jared and his quondam stepbrother including Mark Twain, were
adv are still the best of friends. criticized for having a Rabelaisian
/ SkwizDk(E)lG / view of life.
unknown + Ecff quorum
in a questioning, curious manner. n rachiometer
Martin sat with his head quizzically / SkwPrEm / n
tilted as the algebra teacher was L / TrCkGSBmEZE(r) /
explaining the new concept. the number of members of an Gk
organization who when assembled an instrument for measuring spinal
quodlibet can legally transact business in the curvatures.
n absence of the other members. When Kate complained of back
/ SkwBdlETbet / There were not enough members problems, her orthopedist used a
L present at the school board meeting rachiometer to examine her spine.
a subtle or debatable point; to constitute a quorum, so no
especially : a theological or voting took place.
scholastic question proposed for
argument or disputation.
The best students in the philosophy
seminar were often given a
quodlibet to sharpen their debating
skills.
Page 267 of 349

racketeer radicchio raiment
n n n
/ TrakESti(E)r / / raSdikGP / / SrCmEnt /
imit? L > It E
one who extorts money or a chicory of a red variety with clothing, garments.
advantages by threats of violence variegated leaves that is used as a The stranger’s raiment was well-
or blackmail. salad green. worn but clean and pressed.
The Justice Department was Instead of lettuce, Angela always
successful in prosecuting the uses radicchio in her salads. raisiny
racketeer for tax evasion. adj
radioactive / SrCzFnG /
raconteur n L>F>E
n / TrCdGTPSakTtiv / containing or resembling sun-dried
/ TraTkBnStEr / L+L grapes.
F of, relating to, caused by, or Taylor enjoyed the raisiny trail
one who excels in telling anecdotes exhibiting the emission of radiant mix.
: storyteller. energy.
Mr. Backstrom is the resident Radioactive materials are carefully ramage
raconteur at the county library. tracked and monitored. n
/ Sramij /
radar radioactivity L>F
n the boughs or branches of a tree.
/ SrCTdBr / radioscopy As soon as Buttons got out the
E acronym n door, she disappeared into the
a radio device for locating an / TrCdGSBskEpG / ramage of the big poplar.
object. L + Gk + Ecf
With the help of radar, the weather direct observation of objects rambunctious
bureau was able to track the storm. opaque to light by means of some adj
other form of radiant energy (as X / ramSbEN(k)shEs /
radarscope rays). E
n Upon radioscopy Thelma’s fracture excessively exuberant : wild,
/ SrCdBrTskPp / became clearly visible. uncontrollable.
E acronym + Gk Nothing pleases a group of
the oscilloscope or screen serving radius rambunctious youngsters more
as the visual indicator in a radar than a good pillow fight.
receiver. ragamuffin
The pilot relied on the radarscope ramellose
to fly through the storm safely. raglan adj
/ SramETlPs /
radiant ragout L
adj n having little branches.
/ SrCdGEnt / / raSgV / In the biology lab Carla observed
L L>F the ramellose extremities of
marked by or expressive of joy, meat and vegetables well seasoned freshwater algae.
pleasure, love, confidence, or in a thick rich usually brown sauce.
happiness. The rich ragout made a complete ramification
Emily looked positively radiant meal. n
when she saw her newborn sister / TramEfDSkCshEn /
for the first time. raillery L
n a resulting development :
radical / SrClErG / consequence.
adj F Tina felt that the only negative
/ SradDkEl / good-natured ridicule : mockery. ramification of accepting the job
L>E The new students soon became offer was that she would have to
characterized by a significant accustomed to the raillery of their take a pay cut.
difference from the norm: extreme. dormitory mates.
The new governor promised radical
changes in the state’s welfare
system.
Page 268 of 349

rampage rantipole rascette
v adj n
/ SramTpCj / / SrantGTpPl / / raSset /
Scots D? + G > E? Ar > L > F
act, rush, or storm wildly or characterized by a wild unruly a line crossing the wrist below the
excitedly. manner or attitude. palm of the hand that is sometimes
Crazed fans began to rampage in The antics of the rantipole bear held by palmists to provide
the streets after their team won the cubs amused the zoo visitors. additional indication of a strong or
championship. weak constitution.
rapacious Madame Xantha peered closely at
rampant Helen’s rascette and told her she
adj rapier would live to be 100.
/ SrampEnt /
F rappelled rasgado
marked by the absence of check or v n
restraint. / raSpeld / / rBsSgB(T)dP /
A rampant smallpox epidemic L>F L > Sp
decimated the population. [has near homonym: repelled] the arpeggio effect produced by
descended a precipitous cliff by sweeping the strings with the
ramshackle means of a rope. thumb in guitar playing.
adj Simon pushed off with his feet as he Rod ended his guitar solo with a
/ SramTshakEl / rappelled down the precipice. resounding rasgado.
ON > E
appearing as if ready to collapse : rappelling rasorial
dilapidated, rickety.
Bonnie heard strange noises rapport raspberry
coming from the ramshackle house n n
next door. / raSpP(E)r / / SrazTberG /
F unknown + E
rancid relation characterized by harmony, any of various usually black or red
adj accord, or affinity. sweet juicy edible berries.
/ Sran(t)sDd / Mr. Sanchez works hard to achieve The raspberry is highly prized for
L rapport with all his students. making jams and preserves.
having an offensive smell or taste
usually from chemical change or rapprochement ratafia
decomposition. n n
After a month at room temperature, / TraTprPshSmBM / / TraZESfGE /
most cheese will be rancid. F F
establishment or a state of cordial a small sweet biscuit made from
rancor relations. almond paste.
n The rapprochement between the May ate a ratafia with her coffee
/ SraNkE(r) / country’s two religious groups for breakfast.
L suffered a setback when members
vehement hatred or ill will. of one group bombed a church that rataplan
Samuel’s rancor flashed from his belonged to the other group. n
eyes. / TraZESplan /
rapscallion F
rancorous the iterative sound of beating (as
raptatorial from a drum or the hooves of a
ransack galloping horse).
rapturous One verse of the song required the
ransom adj campers around the bonfire to
/ SrapchErEs / make a rataplan by clapping their
L hands and slapping each thigh in
feeling, expressing, or marked by turn.
ecstasy : ecstatic.
Cecilia always became rapturous
during the final movement of
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
Page 269 of 349

ratatouille raucous realize
n adj v
/ rAtAtVy / / SrOkEs / / SrGETlIz /
L>F L F
a stew made of eggplant, tomatoes, disagreeably harsh or strident. bring into existence.
green peppers, squash, and Up in one of the elms an old black With her inheritance money, Marty
sometimes meat. crow gave its raucous cry. was able to realize her dream of
Marnie used vegetables from her owning a small business.
own garden to make the ratatouille. ravel
realm
rathskeller ravenous
n adj realpolitik
/ SrBtTskelE(r) / / Srav(E)nEs / n
G F / rCSBlTpPlGStGk /
a restaurant located usually below craving for satisfaction or (L + Gk) > G
the street level and patterned after gratification. politics based on practical factors
the cellar or basement of a German The children tore into the meal with as distinguished from theoretical
city hall. a ravenous hunger. objectives.
There are three good restaurants Some analysts credit realpolitik for
on this block, but college students ravigote the increase in voter participation.
seem to prefer the rathskeller. n
/ rAvGSgOt / realschule
ratification L>F
a sauce or dressing colored green realty
ratihabition with spinach puree and seasoned n
with vinegar and a mixture of / SrG(E)ltG /
ratiocinate herbs. L>F>E
v The specialty of the seafood brunch land and its permanently affixed
/ TraZGSPsFnTCt / was shrimp ravigote. buildings or other structures
L together with its improvements and
reason according to a logical ravine its natural assets (as minerals,
process. crops, waters).
A philosopher should ratiocinate ravioli Aurora built a large business in
strictly and rigorously. n corporate realty.
/ TravGSPlG /
ratiocination L > It reappraisal
alimentary paste made in little
ration shells or cases and stuffed (as with rebarbative
cheese, spinach, or meat). adj
rational Fletcher bought a package of / rGSbBrbEZiv /
frozen spinach ravioli and a jar of L
rationale tomato sauce. serving or tending to repel or
irritate.
rattlesnake rawinsonde Teresa complained that she found
n the school play rebarbative.
/ SraZFlTsnCk / rayonnant
E+E adj rebellion
any of numerous pit vipers that / SrCEnEnt /
have a series of interlocking joints F reboant
at the end of the tail which make a depicted with rays darting forth—
sharp rattling sound when vibrated. used especially in heraldry.
Mr. Bergson’s valuable stallion The sun rayonnant on the
died last summer after being bitten Philippine flag signifies liberty and
by a rattlesnake. freedom.
razzia
Page 270 of 349

reboation recension recluse
n n n
/ TrebESwCshEn / / rDSsenchEn / / SreTklVs /
L L L
a loud reverberation. a critical revision of a text (as of an one who leads a retired or solitary
The reboation of the ship’s foghorn ancient author) by an editor. life.
signaled the ship’s entrance into Patricia recently read a modern Alison was shocked when the old
the harbor. recension of Dante’s Inferno. recluse next door called to invite
her for tea.
rebote receptacle
recognizance
rebus recess n
n / rDSkBgnEzEn(t)s /
/ SrGbEs / recidivism L>F>E
L n an obligation of record entered into
a representation of words or / rDSsidETvizEm / before a court or magistrate
syllables by pictures of objects or L + Ecff requiring the performance of an act
by symbols whose names resemble repeated relapse into criminal or (as appearance in court) usually
the intended words or syllables in delinquent habits. under penalty of a money
sound. Unemployment of ex-convicts is at forfeiture.
A popular game show required the root of much of the recidivism The suspect was arraigned the next
contestants to solve a rebus to win. that leads to overcrowded prisons. morning and released on his own
recognizance.
rebuttal recipe
n n recommendation
/ rDSbEZFl / / SresE(T)pG /
F>E L reconcile
the act of contradicting. a formula for cooking or preparing v
Dennis’s convincing rebuttal sent something to be eaten or drunk. / SrekEnTsIl /
Oscar home in a huff. Chuck’s chili recipe is a closely L
guarded secret. obtain agreement between two
recalcitrant financial records.
adj recipient Because he kept such poor records,
/ rDSkalsEtrEnt / it often took Evan several hours to
L reciprocal reconcile his checkbook to his bank
obstinately defiant of authority or adj statement.
restraint : stubbornly disobedient. / rDSsiprEkEl /
An extremely recalcitrant L + Ecf recondite
adolescent, Tommy rejects consisting of or functioning as a adj
everything any authority figure return in kind. / SrekEnTdIt /
says. James is truly unselfish, always L
ready to help without expecting very difficult to understand and
recapitulate reciprocal benefit. beyond the reach of ordinary
v comprehension and knowledge.
/ TrGkESpichETlCt / reciprocity Mansur chose the recondite subject
L n of quantum mechanics for his
repeat the principal points of : / TresESprBsEZG / paper.
restate briefly : give a summary of. L
It is customary for Professor Burns mutual dependence, action, or recreant
to recapitulate his lecture at the influence.
end of class. A treaty of reciprocity called for recrementitious
the lowering of protective tariffs by
receipt both countries. recrudescence
receive recital
Page 271 of 349

recrudescent redoppe refugium
adj n
/ TrGkrVSdesFnt / / rESdBp / refulgent
L L > It > F
breaking out again : renewing a show-ring movement in which a regale
disease or dangerous activity after horse gallops in circles whose v
abatement, suppression, or diameter never exceeds ten feet. / rDSgCl /
cessation. The last movement in Thunder’s F
Because of the recrudescent nature performance was a fast redoppe. entertain (as a person) sumptuously
of tuberculosis, those who have or agreeably : feast with delicacies.
been exposed to this disease should redoubtable The hostess will regale her bridge
be tested for it periodically. adj club members with a variety of
/ rDSdaUZEbEl / delightful homemade desserts.
recuperate F>E
v inspiring awe or reverence : august, regardless
/ rDSk(y)VpETrCt / eminent.
L Mount Rushmore is a fitting regatta
recover health or strength. memorial to four redoubtable n
Aaron spent a month in Florida to statesmen. / rDSgBZE /
recuperate after the campaign. It
reductase an organized series of rowing,
recurrence speedboat, or sailing races.
redundancy The famous rowing regatta at
recurrent Henley-on-Thames has been held
referee each year since 1839.
recusancy
n referential reggae
/ SrekyEzEnsG / n
L refluence / SrC(T)gC /
refusal to accept or obey unknown
constituted authority : refocillate a popular music of Jamaican origin
nonconformity. v that combines indigenous styles
In post-Reformation England, / rGSfBsETlCt / with elements of rock ’n’ roll and
recusancy was the refusal L soul music and is performed with
especially of Roman Catholics to refresh, revive. the accent on the offbeat.
attend the services of the Church of Mom hopes that a good watering The video travelogue about
England. will refocillate her drooping ferns. Jamaica included a soundtrack of
reggae.
recusant refraction
n regicide
redingote / rDSfrakshEn / n
L / SrejETsId /
redolent the deflection from a straight path L
adj undergone by a light ray in passing the killing or murder of a king.
/ SredFlEnt / obliquely from one medium into The peasants resorted to regicide
L>F>E another in which its velocity is when their pleas were ignored by
conveying an aura : tending to different. the tyrannical monarch.
suggest. Mr. Popkin explained that an oar
Every page of Ryan’s essay is in water is not bent, but that regime
redolent of fine scholarship. refraction makes it appear bent. n
/ rCSzhGm /
refuge L>F
n the period during which a
/ Sre(T)fyVj / government or social system
L>F>E prevails.
shelter or protection from danger or During the communist regime in
distress. Romania, environmental problems
The high hills are a refuge for wild were flagrantly ignored.
goats.
Page 272 of 349

regimen rejuvenescence reminiscingly
n
/ SrejEmEn / relegate remuneration
L v n
a systematic plan designed to / SrelETgCt / / rDSmyVnETrCshEn /
improve and maintain health. L L
Cassandra’s regimen includes [has homonym: religate] degrade, an act of paying an equivalent for a
getting at least seven hours of sleep demote. service, loss, or expense :
per night. The coach decided to relegate the compensation.
quarterback to second string after Mr. Shimada gave Mitzi two tickets
regurgitate his poor performance in the game. to Disneyland as remuneration for
v the many errands she had run for
/ rDSgErjETtCt / reliable him.
L
throw, cast, or pour back or out relic renaissance
again. n n
Brenda watched the redbird / Srelik / / TrenESsBn(t)s /
regurgitate food to feed his L L>F
nestlings. an object (as a bone, an article of enthusiastic activity along literary,
clothing or of personal use) kept in artistic, and cultural lines
rehabilitation esteem and veneration because of distinguished by a revival of
n its association with a saint or interest in the past and an
/ TrG(h)ETbilEStCshEn / martyr. increasing pursuit of learning.
L The Shroud of Turin is the most In the 1970s, there was a
the process of restoring an famous relic in Christendom, in renaissance of interest in organic
individual (as a convict, mental spite of its disputed history. gardening techniques.
patient, or disaster victim) to a
useful and constructive place in relinquish render
society. v
The penitentiary employed reliquary / SrendE(r) /
psychologists and educators to help L>F>E
in the rehabilitation of the remainder melt down : extract or clarify by
prisoners. melting.
remedial The process of cooking a few strips
rehearsal adj of bacon can render enough fat to
n / rDSmGdGEl / fry several eggs.
/ rDShErsEl / L
E concerned with the correction of rendezvous
a private recital or practice session faulty study habits, the n
held in preparation for a public improvement of skills imperfectly / SrBndETvV /
appearance. learned, and the raising of a pupil’s F
Roland was somewhat nervous general competence. a meeting at an appointed place and
during his first rehearsal with the The test results indicate that 20 time.
New York City Ballet. percent of the students in Laura’s The astronauts completed a
school need to take a remedial rendezvous with the orbiting space
reindeer course in math. station.
reiterate reminisce renege

v v
/ rGSiZETrCt / / TremESnis / renitent
L L&F adj
say or do over repeatedly. indulge in the practice of thinking / SrenEZEnt /
The new teacher decided to about past experiences. L
reiterate each point of the lesson at The old photographs prompted resisting pressure, constraint, or
the end of the period so that the Grandpa to reminisce about his compulsion.
students could not claim they youth. Mark’s dog proved too renitent to
missed the information. learn any tricks.
reminiscence
rejoice
Page 273 of 349

renounce repechage replenish
v n v
/ rDSnaUn(t)s / / TrepESshBzh / / rDSplenish /
L L>F L
[has near homonym: renowns] a second-chance trial heat (as in fill up again.
announce one’s abandonment of Olympic rowing) in which losers in The heavy rain from the hurricane
the ownership of : give up, the first round of competition are served to replenish the drought-
abandon, or resign usually formally given another chance to qualify for stricken reservoirs of the state.
(something possessed). the semifinals.
In 1936 Edward, Prince of Wales, Luigi fell behind in the first heat of replevin
decided to renounce his claim to the single sculls, but he hoped to n
the throne of England and marry make up for it in the repechage. / rDSplevDn /
American divorcée Wallis Simpson. L? > F
repercussions the return to or recovery by a
renovation person of goods claimed to be
repertoire wrongfully taken or detained upon
renovator n the person’s giving security to try
n / SrepE(r)TtwBr / the matter in court and return the
/ SrenETvCZE(r) / L>F goods if defeated in the action.
L a list or supply of pieces or parts Before the goods could be moved
one that restores to a former state that a company or person has from the warehouse, the judge
(as worn or damaged articles). thoroughly rehearsed and is issued a writ of replevin.
The Rehmers hired a renovator to prepared to perform.
work on the old farmhouse they The folk dance troupe has added repository
bought. several Balkan dances to its
repertoire. repoussage
renvoi n
n repertory / rDTpVSsBzh /
/ renSvOi / n F
F / SrepE(r)TtPrG / the art or process of hammering out
the return by a government of an L or pressing thin metal from the
alien to his own country. the practice of presenting with a reverse side.
Because of crowded prisons, New resident company a number of Fiona bought a brass box
York has been practicing renvoi on different productions (as plays or decorated with repoussage at the
illegal aliens who have committed dances) during a season either antique shop.
a crime. successively or alternately.
The ballet company is presenting reprehensible
repaint four productions in repertory this adj
winter. / TreprDShen(t)sEbEl /
reparation L>E
repetition deserving rebuke or reprimand :
repartee n censurable.
n / TrepEStishEn / This amiable, upright, perfect Jane
/ repE(r)StG / L Fairfax was apparently cherishing
F the fact of occurring, appearing, or very reprehensible feelings.
a succession of clever retorts. being said again.
Susie and Josh’s repartee is so The repetition in the epic poem was represent
excessive that even their friends anything but boring.
tire quickly of the constant retorts. reprieve
repetitious n
adj / rDSprGv /
/ TrepEStishEs / F?
L a formal suspension of the
marked by the act of repeating execution of a sentence especially
something already said or done. of death.
Bettina complained that her piano Bowing to public pressure, the
lessons were repetitious. governor granted a reprieve to the
convict awaiting execution.
replaceable
Page 274 of 349

reprimand repudiate rescue
v v v
/ SreprETmand / / rDSpyVdGTCt / / Sre(T)skyV /
L>F L L>F>E
reprove severely : chide for a fault : refuse approval or belief to : reject free from confinement, violence,
censure formally and especially as untrue or unjust. danger, or evil : save, deliver.
with authority. Jacqueline wanted to repudiate her Three lifeguards dived into the pool
Dean felt guilty as he began to family's ideas about class to rescue the flailing girl.
reprimand Shirley; was the blame distinction, so she married their
partially his? chauffeur. reservoir
reprisal n
n repugnance / SrezEvTwBr /
/ rDSprIzEl / n L>F
L > It > F > E / rDSpEgnEn(t)s / a place where water is collected
an action of retaliation (as for L and kept in quantity for use when
injury or attack). strong dislike, distaste, or wanted.
The team captain decided to use a antipathy. Because of the dry spell, our
trick play as a reprisal for the other Mr. Churchill felt deep repugnance reservoir was only half full, and
team’s roughhousing. toward his aunt, whose illnesses water restrictions had to be
never occurred but for her own imposed.
repristinate convenience.
v residential
/ rGSpristETnCt / Requiem
L n residual
restore to an original state or / SrekwGEm /
condition : revive. L residue
Barb and Ray spent the better part a grand musical hymn in honor of n
of the summer working to the dead. / SrezETd(y)V /
repristinate the old farm house. Many orchestras include a L
classical Requiem in their the part of a molecule that remains
reproach repertoire. after the removal of a portion of its
v constituents.
/ rDSprPch / requiescence Sondra asked Jeff to analyze and
F>E write out the formula for the
rebuke strongly or sternly : scold. requisite residue in the Erlenmeyer flask.
Van hoped that Mrs. Krishnan adj
wouldn’t reproach him in front of / SrekwEzDt / residuum
the whole lunchroom crowd. L
required by the nature of things or resile
reprobate by circumstances or by the end in v
v view. / rDSzIl /
/ SreprETbCt / Buried under a calmness that L
L seemed all but indifference was an draw back : recoil, retract, recede.
disapprove of : reject as unworthy attachment that would have led The rubber bands in Greta’s desk
or evil. either of the two brothers, if were so old that several had lost
Patty will not be going to the sock requisite, to do everything for the their ability to resile.
hop because her parents reprobate good of the other.
dancing. resilience
rescind n
reptilian v / rDSzilyEn(t)s /
/ rDSsind / L + Ecf
L an act of springing back : rebound,
repeal. recoil.
The new bill would rescind several Vera showed her resilience by
outdated laws. recovering so quickly from her
skiing accident.
rescindable
Page 275 of 349

resiliency respite resuscitate
n n v
/ rDSzilyEnsG / / SrespDt / / rDSsEsETtCt /
L + Ecff L>F L
capability of a strained body to temporary intermission of labor or revive from apparent death or from
recover its size and shape after of any process or unconsciousness.
deformation caused especially by operation : interval of rest. A young intern pushed through the
compressive stress. Seeking respite from the arguing of crowd to resuscitate the
A pole vaulter must adjust to the his siblings, Jerold left the table in unconscious child.
resiliency of his pole. the middle of their family dinner.
resuscitation
resilient resplendence
n reticence
resinous / rDSsplendEn(t)s / n
L>E / SreZDsEn(t)s /
resipiscence the quality or state of shining L>F
n brilliantly. restraint in speaking or
/ TresESpisFn(t)s / The resplendence of the sunset over communicating : reserve.
L Loon Lake enticed Eric to stay one Jordan’s usual reticence
change of mind or heart; often : more day. disappears when he sits at the
return to a sane, sound, or correct radio microphone.
view or position. restauratrice
The soldier’s severe war n reticulated
experience brought about in him a / TrestErEStrGs / adj
resipiscence marked by much L / rDStikyETlCZDd /
regret for shortcomings in his a woman who operates or owns a L + Ecf
personal life. public eating place. constructed or faced with diamond-
While Ted and Sue were dining, the shaped stones or square stones
resistible restauratrice came to their table to placed diagonally.
ask for their comments on the food The hotel lobby’s reticulated floor
resolute and service. provided stark geometric contrast
adj with the gentle curves of the
/ SrezETlVt / restitution atrium.
L
having or characterized by a restitutory reticule
decided purpose : determined. adj n
Jody remained resolute in his / TrestEStVZErG / / SreZETkyVl /
decision to resign from the L L
committee. of, relating to, or aiming at the a woman’s small drawstring bag
return of something to its rightful used as a pocketbook, workbag, or
resonance owner. carryall.
n The judge’s verdict included Mrs. Bates folded up a letter which
/ SrezFnEn(t)s / punitive as well as restitutory she had been reading and returned
L features. it into the purple and gold reticule
[Note: Could be confused with by her side.
plural noun resonants.] a resurgence
phenomenon that is shown by a retina
molecule, ion, or radical to which resurgent n
two or more structures differing adj / SretFnE /
only in the distribution of electrons / rDSsErjEnt / L>E
can be assigned. L the multilayered innermost lining
To illustrate the concept of rising again from an inferior state of the eyeball that contains various
resonance, Mr. Abadi drew two to a superior state. types of photoreceptive cells that
different Lewis structures of ozone The former Soviet republic is are connected to the brain via the
on the board. experiencing resurgent optic nerve.
nationalism. The ophthalmologist treated Mrs.
respiratory Simpson for a detached retina.
resurrection
Page 276 of 349

retinue revenant revictualment
n adj n
/ SretFnT(y)V / / SrevEnEnt / / rGSviZFlmEnt /
L>F>E F L + L > F > E + Ecf
a train of attendants. coming back : recurring. the obtaining of fresh stocks of
The actress obtained coveted The more Rachel tries to put the provisions (as by an army).
awards ceremony tickets for her revenant dream out of her mind, We cannot go that far into enemy
entire retinue. the more often it recurs. territory without a clear plan for
revictualment.
retractile revenue
n revirescent
retribution / SrevETn(y)V / adj
n L / TrevESresFnt /
/ TretrESbyVshEn / the income that comes back from L
L an investment. growing fresh or young again :
something given or exacted in The revenue from Maria’s rental reviving.
compensation. property enabled her to buy a The incumbent surprised his
Art felt certain that his fender vacation cabin. opponents with the revirescent
bender was divine retribution for vigor of his campaign.
all the times he had honked his reverberate
horn impatiently at other drivers. v reviviscent
/ rDSvErbETrCt /
retrocedence L rhabdomancer
n continue or become repeated in or n
/ TretrESsGdFn(t)s / as if in a series of echoes. / SrabdETman(t)sE(r) /
L Kevin stood on one side of the Gk
the act of ceding back typically by canyon, yelled as loudly as he one who practices divination by
treaty. could, and waited for his voice to rods or wands.
In 1997 the British government reverberate. With his divining rod in hand, the
completed the retrocedence of rhabdomancer set out to find an
Hong Kong to China. reverberated undiscovered spring of water.
v
retrogress / rDSvErbETrCZDd / rhapsodical
L adj
retrospect returned or sent back : echoed. / rapSsBdDkEl /
v Loud sounds reverberated Gk
/ SretrETspekt / throughout the cave. extravagantly emotional :
L rapturous.
practice the act of surveying the revere The music critic lavished
past. rhapsodical praise on the Brahms
Colin’s ability to restrospect makes reverence concert.
history classes a breeze for him.
reversible rheostat
revanche adj n
n / rDSvErsEbEl / / SrGETstat /
/ rDSvBnch / L>F>E Gk
F made to be worn either side out and a resistor for regulating a current by
the policy of a government intent often with a different fabric on each means of variable resistances.
on the recovery of lost territory. side. The light dimmer has refused to
Under the domination of the USSR, Mark’s reversible vest matches work ever since Henry adjusted the
tendencies toward revanche were everything else in his wardrobe. rheostat.
kept under tight control.
rhetoric
reveille
Page 277 of 349

rhetorician rhinitis rhombus
n n n
/ TreZESrishEn / / rISnIZDs / / SrBmbEs /
Gk Gk Gk > L
one who writes or speaks in an common cold. an equilateral parallelogram.
inflated or bombastic style. The doctor diagnosed rhinitis and The most familiar form that a
People tend to ignore Mr. Wade’s prescribed rest. rhombus takes must certainly be a
good ideas because he is such a square.
rhetorician. rhinoceros
n rhubarb
rheumatic / rISnBs(E)rEs / n
adj Gk / SrVTbBrb /
/ rVSmaZik / any of various large powerful (Gk + L) > L? > F > E
Gk > L > F herbivorous thick-skinned a plant having large leaves with
of, relating to or characteristic of mammals that have one or two thick succulent stems that are often
inflammation, pain, and swelling in heavy upright horns on the snout. eaten in pies or preserves.
and around the joints. The videotape showed dramatic Rhubarb and strawberries make a
Once Ben had rheumatic fever, and footage of a rhinoceros charging a good combination for a pie.
once he had typhoid. photographer.
rhythm
rheumatism rhizotomy n
n / SriLEm /
/ SrVmETtizEm / rhodium Gk > L > F
Gk the aspect of music comprising all
any of numerous conditions rhododendron the elements (as accent, meter,
characterized by inflammation or n time, tempo) that relate to forward
pain in muscles, joints, or fibrous / TrPdESdendrEn / movement as contrasted with pitch
tissue. Gk sequence or tone combination.
Shea’s grandfather complained of any of various plants of the genus Latin American music is usually
rheumatism whenever the weather Rhododendron with persistent easily recognizable by its
was cold and damp. leathery leaves and bell-shaped distinctive rhythm.
flowers.
rheumy Evan’s mother plants a ribald
rhododendron along the driveway adj
rhinarium every year on his birthday. / SribEld /
n Gmc > F > E
/ rISna(a)rGEm / rhodolite characterized by broad coarse
Gk > L n humor.
the hairless area of roughened skin / SrPdFlTIt / Sharon’s mom was surprised to
at the tip of the snout of a mammal. Gk + Gk learn that the ribald tale her
Vince checked the puppy’s a pink or purple garnet that is used daughter was reading was written
temperature by touching its as a gem. by Geoffrey Chaucer.
rhinarium. The gem exhibit included a 75-
carat rhodolite from Tanzania. ricochet
rhinestone n
n rhomboid / SrikETshC /
/ SrInzTtPn / n F
geog name + E / SrBmTbOid / a glancing rebound or skipping (as
a colorless imitation stone of high Gk > L > F of a flat stone thrown along the
luster made of glass, paste, or gem a parallelogram in which the angles surface of water).
quartz. are oblique and adjacent sides are Albert and Tyler carefully counted
Basil didn’t bother looking for the unequal. each ricochet in the stone-skipping
rhinestone that fell out of his belt One of our geometry problems was contest.
buckle. to find the area of a rhomboid.
Page 278 of 349

ricotta righteous rivulet
n adj n
/ rGSkOZE / / SrIchEs / / SrivyElDt /
L > It E L > It
a white unripened whey cheese of characterized by uprightness or a small stream : brook.
Italian origin that resembles cottage justice. The fast-melting snow gushed down
cheese. The civil rights protesters were the rivulet to the pond below.
Angela’s favorite Italian recipe fearless in their righteous cause.
calls for ravioli stuffed with ricotta. roan
rigorous adj
rictus / SrPn /
n rime Gothic > Sp > F
/ SriktEs / n [has near homonym: rowan] of an
L / SrIm / animal’s coat : having the base
a gaping grin or grimace. E color (as black, red, gray, or
Reuben’s face was frozen in a [has homonym: rhyme] a covering brown) muted and lightened by a
rictus of horror during the movie’s of minute ice crystals on a cold liberal admixture of white hairs.
last scene. surface that is formed by the The roan pony is the tamest mount
condensation of atmospheric vapor at Camp Wannagohome.
rideau at temperatures below freezing :
n frost. roborant
/ rDSdP / Rime may occur in large, feathery adj
F flakes, but they lack the crystalline / SrBbErEnt /
a small ridge or mound of earth. patterns of snowflakes. L
The cottage was built on a rideau strengthening.
overlooking the marsh. riparian In China, ginseng has for ages
adj been esteemed for its roborant
ridiculous / rDSperGEn / effects on the body.
L
rifeness [Note: Could be confused with rococo
riparial.] of, relating to, or living or adj
riffler located on the bank of a / rESkP(T)kP /
watercourse (as a river or stream). F
rift Most wildlife depends on riparian excessively ornate or intricate.
n areas for survival. The rococo decor of Griselda’s
/ Srift / new house is typical of those built
Scand > E risibility with “new money.”
a divergence (as of interests or n rodomont
beliefs) resulting in disagreement / TrizESbilEZG / n
or dispute. L / SrBdETmBnt /
Deciding what the puppy should be the ability or inclination to laugh : It name
named caused a temporary rift alertness or sensitiveness to the a vain or blustering boaster.
between the twins. ridiculous, incongruous, or absurd. James’s new roommate is
Mary’s risibility has earned her the something of a rodomont.
rigatoni nickname “Giggle Girl.”
n rissole rognon
/ TrigEStPnG / n
Gmc > It / rDSsPl / rogue
hollow alimentary paste made in L>F n
short curved fluted pieces. [has near homonym: resole] / SrPg /
Paula served rigatoni stuffed with minced meat or fish covered with unknown
cheese and diced vegetables. pastry and fried in deep fat. a dishonest unprincipled person.
Marianne ate a rissole for lunch. The sheriff warned the newcomers
that he would not tolerate a rogue
ritziness in his town.
riverain
Page 279 of 349

roleo Rorschach rotulet
n n n
/ SrPlGTP / / SrP(E)rTshBk / / SrBchElDt /
L > F > E&E Swiss name L
a logrolling tournament. a psychological test of personality a small scroll or register.
A roleo is similar to a rodeo but and intelligence using inkblot The circuit judge logged all his
has floating logs instead of bucking designs. court business in a rotulet.
broncos. Keesha’s responses during the
Rorschach caused the examiner to rotundity
romance believe that she was trying to make n
the results unreliable. / rPStEndEZG /
rondache L
n rosemaling roundness.
/ rBnSdash / n When he looked in the fun-house
F / SrPzETmBliN / mirror, Chris was astounded by his
a small shield carried by a foot L > ON > Norw + G > Norw rotundity.
soldier. painted or carved decoration (as on
In medieval warfare the rondache furniture, walls, or wooden rouge
often had a slit in the upper part for dinnerware) in Scandinavian n
seeing through. peasant style that consists of / SrVzh /
colorful floral and other designs L>F
ronquil and inscriptions. any of various cosmetics that give a
n Tad restored the rosemaling on his red coloring to the cheeks or lips.
/ SrBNkDl / wife’s antique chair. Loretta’s mother said she was too
Sp young to wear rouge.
any of several fishes of the roseola
northwest coast of North America rough
that resemble the jawfishes. rostrum adj
Sheila caught a ronquil while n / SrEf /
fishing off the Alaskan coast. / SrBstrEm / E
L [has homonym: ruff] difficult to
rood a pulpit or platform occupied by an travel over or penetrate.
n orator or public speaker. The rough waters off its coast made
/ SrVd / Robin stepped up on the rostrum, the island a bane for sailors.
E took a drink of water, and then
[has homonym: rude, rued] a unit began her speech. roughhewn
of land area used in England and
Scotland equal to 40 square rods or rotisserie roulette
¼ acre. n n
After the uprising, every rood of the / rPStisErG / / rVSlet /
estate of Hugh of Thorpe was left F L>F
burnt and barren. a cooking appliance with a spit on a gambling game in which players
which food is rotated before or over bet on which compartment of a
roommate a source of heat. revolving wheel a small ball spun
Herb cooked the chicken on a in the opposite direction will come
roriferous rotisserie over his gas grill. to rest in.
adj Bonita spent the entire time on the
/ rOSrif(E)rEs / rotogravure riverboat playing roulette.
L n
generating dew. / TrPZEgrESvyU(E)r /
The cool, roriferous evenings were L+F
a pleasant contrast to the hot, dry a photogravure process in which
days. the impression is produced by a
rotary press.
Rotogravure is used to print the
magazine section of the Sunday
paper.
Page 280 of 349

roundelay rubicund ruminate
n v
/ SraUndETlC / rubicundity / SrVmETnCt /
F n L
a folk or ritual group or couple / TrVbESkEndEZG / muse upon : contemplate over and
dance in which participants form a L over.
ring and move in a prescribed the quality or state of being ruddy Luke likes to ruminate in the
direction. or reddish. backyard while chewing on a stem
The roundelay dates back to The rubicundity of Laura’s face of grass.
prehistoric times, when people was evidence of her
danced around a central totem. embarrassment. rumored
rowel rubric rumormonger

v n n
/ SraU(E)l / / SrV(T)brik / / SrVmE(r)TmBNgE(r) /
F>E L L + Gk > L > E
goad with a revolving disk at the name, title. one that spreads unconfirmed
end of a spur. The fields of botany, zoology, and pieces of information.
After she rounds the bend, geology were once classified If Alfonso doesn’t learn to hold his
Gabrielle will rowel her horse to a together under the rubric of tongue, he’s going to earn a
fresh burst of speed. “natural history.” reputation as a rumormonger.
rudimentary
ruade adj runnel
/ TrVdESmentErG /
rubefacient L rupestrian
n basic, fundamental. adj
/ TrVbESfCshEnt / Thurston possessed only a / rVSpestrGEn /
L rudimentary knowledge of opera. L
a substance for external application composed of rock.
that causes redness of the skin. ruefully The designer of the famous
Isopropyl alcohol is a well-known adv rupestrian monument known as
rubefacient found in many people’s / SrVfElG / “Mt. Rushmore” died before the
medicine cabinets. E + Ecf 14-year project was completed.
in a pitiable or woeful manner.
rubella Joe ruefully replied that he hadn’t rural
n been able to bring any lunch with adj
/ rVSbelE / him. / SrUrEl /
L L
an acute contagious disease usually ruminant of, relating to, associated with, or
affecting children and young adults n typical of the country.
and characterized by a red skin / SrVmEnEnt / Kevin has always resided in the city
eruption, mild symptoms, and a L and knows little about the rural
short duration : German measles. any of a suborder of even-toed way of life.
Rubella is especially dangerous hoofed mammals (as sheep,
when contracted by an expectant giraffes, deer, and camels) that rurigenous
mother because it can threaten the chew the cud and have a complex adj
health of her unborn child. usually four-chambered stomach. / rUSrijEnEs /
Microorganisms play an essential L
Rubenesque role in the digestive system of a born or living in the country.
adj ruminant. As the town grew, some of the
/ TrVbDSnesk / stores began to neglect their
Flem name rurigenous customers.
of, relating to, or having the
characteristics of the Flemish
painter Peter Paul Rubens.
The luxuriant drapery, use of light,
and coloration of the painting in
the Jones’s entryway were
Rubenesque.
Page 281 of 349

ruse sable saccadic
n n adj
/ SrVs / / SsCbEl / / saSkBdik /
F Slav > G > F > E F
a stratagem or trick usually [Note: The definition provided is [has near homonym: psychotic] of
intended to deceive. not the one most commonly or relating to a sudden movement :
Little did Carey know that Mrs. associated with this word.] the jerky.
Bradley was onto his ruse. heraldic color black. Virginia’s saccadic motions were
Anita began painting her family’s symptomatic of a neurological
russet coat of arms by creating a disorder.
adj background of sable.
/ SrEsDt / saccharify
L>F>E sabotage
reddish brown. n sacciform
Troy’s Robin Hood costume / SsabETtBzh / adj
featured a russet top and forest F / Ssak(s)ETfOrm /
green pants. malicious destruction of or damage L
to property with the intention of resembling a pouch.
rustic injuring a business or impairing the The squirrel filled its sacciform
adj economic system or weakening a cheeks with acorns.
/ SrEstik / government or nation in time of
L war or national emergency. sacerdocy
naturally simple in character or When a drug enforcement agency n
manners. airplane crashed, sabotage was / SsasE(r)TdPsG /
Visitors to the village considered suspected and an investigation was L
the inhabitants rustic. launched. priesthood.
Will announced in a letter to his
rutabaga saboteur sister that he felt a calling to the
n sacerdocy.
/ SrVZETbCgE / sacalait
ON > Sw n sacerdotal
a turnip with a very large yellowish / SsakETlC / adj
root that is used as food both for Choctaw > F / TsasE(r)SdPZFl /
stock and for human beings. a crappie that is typically smaller L
In England, the vegetable and more silvery than the black of or relating to priests or a
Americans know as a rutabaga is crappie and that is highly esteemed priesthood.
called a “swede.” as a food fish. Some types of sacerdotal clothing
rutch Ray and Moira went to the French distinguish the clergy from the
Quarter to dine on sacalait and laity, and some signify rank within
rutilant cornbread. the priesthood.
adj
/ SrVZFlEnt / saccade sachem
L n n
having a reddish glow : shining. / saSkBd / / SsCchEm /
The evening sun put a rutilant F Narraganset&Pequot
sheen on the sunbathers’ skin. a small rapid jerky movement of the leader of a political party;
the eye especially as it jumps from specifically : one of the 12
sabbatical fixation on one point to another (as governors of the Tammany Society.
in reading). William Tweed was a sachem of the
Mary felt that her eyes could not political organization known as
take one more saccade, so she Tammany Hall.
closed them during the remainder
of the PowerPoint presentation.
Page 282 of 349

sachet saffron salamander
n n n
/ saSshC / / SsafrEn / / SsalETmandE(r) /
F Ar > L > F > E Gk > L > F > E
[has homonym: sashay] a small a deep orange-colored substance a metal disk or plate heated and
bag or packet; especially : a small consisting of the aromatic pungent held over a food (as pastry or
bag containing a perfumed powder dried stigmas of the saffron crocus pudding) to brown the top of it.
that is used to scent clothes. and used to color and flavor foods. A salamander is often used to
Aunt Kate keeps a sachet in her Saffron is the most expensive spice caramelize the top of desserts like
clothes closet. at Walker’s Market. crème brulée.
sacralize sagacious salami

adj n
sacrifice / sESgCshEs / / sESlBmG /
v L L > It
/ SsakrETfIs / possessing quick intellectual a highly seasoned sausage made of
L perceptions. pork and beef.
[Note: The definition provided is The neighbors often came to the Randy made a sandwich of salami
not the one most commonly sagacious old man for advice about and cheese.
associated with this word.] bunt in investments.
baseball with fewer than two out, salesclerk
enabling a base runner to advance a sagacity
base while the batter is put out at n salicetum
first base. / sESgasEZG / n
The coach told Marvin to sacrifice L / TsalESsGZEm /
because George was on third base quickness or acuteness of sense L
and the team needed one more run perceptions. a collection or plantation of
to win. Chuck’s sagacity made him the willows.
finest detective in the arson unit. The salicetum is Nikki’s favorite
sacrificial picnic spot.
sagathy
sacristy salicylate
sagebrush
sacroiliac salient
sagittal
sacrosanct adj saline
adj / SsajEZFl /
/ SsakrPsaN(k)t / L salivary
L of, relating to, or shaped like an
most holy or sacred : inviolable. arrow or arrowhead. salmon
The use of loud voices is Murray fantasized that the sagittal n
inappropriate in the sacrosanct rock he found in the quarry was an / SsamEn /
temple. Indian arrowhead. L>F>E
a variable color of salmon’s flesh
safari Sagittarius averaging a strong yellowish pink.
n n Unable to find a purse in the right
/ sESfBrG / / TsajESta(a)rGEs / shade of salmon, Vera decided to
Ar > Swahili L stick with basic black.
a hunting or other expedition in the ninth sign of the zodiac.
east Africa, especially on foot. The Moon was in Sagittarius when
While on safari, Ariel Sherman was born.
photographed lions and elephants.
salaam
Page 283 of 349

salmonellosis salvo sanctimonious
n n adj
/ TsalmETneSlPsDs / / Ssal(T)vP / / TsaN(k)tESmPnGEs /
American name + Lcff L > F > It L
infection with a bacterial disease a sudden eruption or explosion (as displaying high-mindedness with
typically marked by gastroenteritis of laughter, cheers, or handclaps). intent to impress.
but often complicated by When the villain met with doom Ronnie’s voice took on a
septicemia, meningitis, and other after an intense struggle, the movie sanctimonious tone when he
conditions. theater was filled with a salvo of volunteered to give his mother his
Vaughn contracted salmonellosis applause. meal.
while on the cruise.
samba sanction
salon n
/ SsambE / sanctity
salsilla African > Pg
n a Brazilian dance of African origin sanctum
/ salSsilE / characterized by a sprightly step n
L pattern in duple time and a bending / SsaN(k)tEm /
a tropical American plant with of the knee at each beat of the L
edible roots sometimes used as a music. a sacred place.
substitute for potatoes. The Campbells, who love Latin The innermost sanctum of the
In the West Indies we had our first dancing, went to special classes to temple in Jerusalem was known as
taste of salsilla. learn the samba. the Holy of Holies.
saltine samizdat sandal

n n n
/ sOlStGn / / SsBmGzTdBt / / SsandFl /
E Russ Gk > L > E
a thin, crisp cracker sprinkled with the system in the former U.S.S.R. a shoe consisting essentially of a
salt. by which government-suppressed sole fastened to the foot by means
The stale saltine crumbled as the literature was clandestinely printed of straps or thongs passing over the
raccoon tried to wash it in the and distributed; also : such instep and around the ankle.
creek. literature. Lorraine stopped to refasten the
After the fall of communism, strap of her sandal because her
salutary numerous small publishers of ankle had swollen.
adj samizdat found their place in the
/ SsalyETterG / open market. sangaree
L
promoting health : curative, samovar sangfroid
restorative. n
The long vacation had a salutary samphire / saNSfrwB /
effect on Grace’s mental health. n L>F
/ SsamTfI(E)r / extraordinary self-possession or
salve F name imperturbability, especially under
n a fleshy European coastal plant that strain.
/ Ssav / is sometimes pickled. Justin remained calm during the
E Daphne ordered the salad of prosecutor’s attack and replied to
a healing ointment. samphire and other greens. the questions with sangfroid.
Jason’s grandmother prepared a
mustard oil salve and told him that sampler sanguinary
if he used it, his troubles would be
over in three days. samurai sanguine
adj
sanctified / SsaNgwDn /
L
marked by eager hopefulness.
Ever sanguine, Kathy said that she
would one day win the lottery.
Page 284 of 349

sanguinolent sapphiric sarsaparilla
adj adj n
/ saNSgwinFlEnt / / sESfirik / / Tsas(E)pESrilE /
L Skt > Heb > Gk > L > F > E Sp
of, containing, or tinged with having the nature of or resembling a sweetened carbonated beverage
blood. a sapphire. similar to root beer with the
Theo’s phlegm became Diane’s bracelet held a series of predominant flavor from birch oil
sanguinolent for a while from sapphiric stones. and sassafras.
bronchitis. Sylvester’s yen for sarsaparilla is
saprogenous well known to cartoon aficionados.
sanitary adj
adj / sESprBjEnEs / sartorial
/ SsanETterG / Gk + Gk + Ecf adj
L capable of producing decay or / sBrStPrGEl /
for or relating to the preservation of putrefaction. L
health. Saprogenous bacteria aid in the of or relating to dress or to tailored
Conditions at Christ Hospital are decomposition of dead organic clothes.
as sanitary as is humanly possible. matter. Sandy, who longed to be a sartorial
rebel, sometimes went to class
sapiential saprophagous wearing purple tights under her
adj adj uniform.
/ SsCpGTenchEl / / sESprBfEgEs /
L Gk + Gk sashay
characterized by wisdom. feeding on decaying matter. v
The philosopher’s library is filled While hiking, Ted and Paul passed / saSshC /
with sapiential books. the carcass of a squirrel that was F>E
covered with saprophagous insects. [Note: Could be confused with
saponaceous chassé. Also, word has homonym:
adj saran sachet] strut in an ostentatious or
/ TsapESnCshEs / conspicuous manner.
L sarcasm Tommy and Suzanne tried to
soapy. sashay as the caller instructed, but
Talc and soapstone have a sarcophagus they both tripped and fell.
saponaceous feel.
sardine Saskatchewan
saporous n adj
adj / TsBrSdGn / / sESskachEwEn /
/ SsapErEs / Gk? > L > F > E Cree > Canad geog name
L any of several small or immature of or from the province of
having flavor; especially : fishes preserved for food. Saskatchewan, Canada.
agreeable in taste. The only way to entice the Among the Saskatchewan flora is
When Dad returned from work, frightened cat from under the porch the saskatoon, a sweet purple
Mom treated him to a saporous was to offer him a sardine. berry.
beef stew.
sardonic saskatoon
sapphire n
n sardonyx / TsaskEStVn /
/ SsaTfI(E)r / Canadian geog name
Skt > Heb > Gk > L > F > E sarong a juneberry of the northern and
a precious stone of transparent rich western United States and adjacent
blue corundum of great value. sarrazin Canada.
Sapphire has been highly prized as The purple fruit of the saskatoon is
a gemstone since 800 B.C. eaten eagerly by birds.
Page 285 of 349

sassafras satirical saurian
n adj
/ Ssas(E)Tfras / / sEStirDkEl / sausage
Sp > L L>F n
the dried bark of the root of an characterized by caustic or ironic / SsOsij /
aromatic tree used as a diaphoretic, comment. L>F>E
a flavoring agent, an aromatic Ned’s cartoons have a sharp, highly seasoned chopped or ground
stimulant, or as a source of an satirical edge. meat that is used either fresh or
aromatic volatile oil used in cured.
perfumes. saturate Harry’s favorite pizza is topped
Alba’s family has a recipe for v with sausage and onions.
medicinal tea that contains / SsachETrCt /
sassafras. L savagism
infuse thoroughly or cause to be
satchel pervaded. savorous
The aroma of a turkey roasting in adj
satellite the oven began to saturate the / SsCv(E)rEs /
n entire house. L>F>E
/ SsaZFlTIt / pleasurable to the taste : flavorful.
Etruscan? > L > F saturnine Mabel prepared a savorous
a celestial body orbiting another of adj Thanksgiving dinner for her family.
larger size. / SsaZE(r)TnIn /
Earth has only one natural L savory
satellite—the Moon. of a moody or surly character : adj
morose, sullen. / SsCv(E)rG /
satiate Shirley’s father-in-law is a F
saturnine person with a quick fragrant.
satiety temper. Guido bought a savory wooden
n bowl smelling of rich cedar and
/ sEStIEZG / saucer varnish.
L>F
the quality or state of being fed to sauciness savvy
or beyond capacity. n n
Nell wondered if her beagle puppy / SsOsGnDs / / SsavG /
would ever reach satiety. L > F + Ecf L > Sp
the quality or state of being expertness in a particular field
satire amusingly or unobjectionably based on experience and native
n forward or impertinent. ability.
/ SsaTtI(E)r / Emma felt they were friends again, Officer Ramos’s street savvy was a
L and the conviction gave her at first great help in apprehending drug
a usually topical literary great satisfaction, and then a little dealers.
composition holding up human or sauciness.
individual vices, folly, abuses, or saxophone
shortcomings to censure by means sauerbraten
of ridicule, derision, burlesque, n sayonara
irony, or other method sometimes / SsaU(E)rTbrBtFn / n
with an intent to bring about G / TsByESnBrE /
improvement. oven-roasted or pot-roasted beef Jpn
Gulliver’s Travels is a scathing marinated in a vinegar solution good-bye.
satire of political and religious with peppercorns, garlic, onions, Charlene found it hard to bid
hypocrites. and bay leaves before cooking. Nagano sayonara at the end of the
Phil’s favorite German restaurant 1998 Winter Olympics.
satiric features sauerbraten during
Oktoberfest.
sauger
saunter
Page 286 of 349

scabbard scaphoid scelidosaur
n adj
/ SskabE(r)d / / SskaTfOid / scenario
G > AF > E Gk > L n
a usually leather or metal sheath in shaped like a boat. / sDSna(a)rGTP /
which the blade of a sword, dagger, Terence found a scaphoid Gk > L
bayonet, or other cutting weapon is depression in the rock. an outline or synopsis of a play.
enclosed when not in use. After the actor read the scenario,
The knight began to pull his sword scarce he decided that he was not right for
from its scabbard, but a look from adj the leading role.
the queen stopped him. / Sske(E)rs /
L>F>E scenewright
scabrous not plentiful or abundant. n
adj Lettuce became scarce and / SsGnTrIt /
/ SskabrEs / expensive after the recent flooding. Gk > L + E
L a designer and maker of theatrical
rough to the touch : having small scarcity sets.
raised dots, scales, or points. The scenewright worked closely
The leaf’s scabrous texture was scarifier with the playwright to create the
caused by insect attacks. n appropriate backgrounds for each
/ Sska(a)rETfI(E)r / act.
scaffold Gk > L > F
an implement or machine that tears scentless
scalene up the surface of a road prior to adj
adj resurfacing. / SsentlDs /
/ SskCTlGn / Paul operates a scarifier for the L > F > E + Ecf
Gk Highway Department. emitting no odor.
having the sides unequal—used of Gerald prefers scentless soap.
a triangle. scarlatina
The boat’s sail formed a scalene n scepter
triangle. / TskBrlEStGnE / n
L / SseptE(r) /
scallopini an acute contagious disease marked Gk > L > F > E
by fever. a staff or baton borne by a
scalpel Diseases such as scarlatina were sovereign as a ceremonial emblem
n once the scourge of childhood. of authority.
/ SskalpEl / When Ben played Henry VIII in the
L scarlet school play, his mother made him a
a small straight knife with a thin adj scepter.
keen blade used especially for / SskBrlDt /
dissecting. Per > L > F schadenfreude
In surgery the scalpel is now often having the face reddened by n
replaced by a laser beam. emotion (as embarrassment, anger) / SshBdFnTfrOidE /
: red-faced. G
scampi Jill turned scarlet with rage when enjoyment obtained from the
she discovered her sister was mishaps of others.
scandal wearing her new sweater. Morgana claimed to be
sympathetic, but the schadenfreude
scansion scaturient was all too obvious.
n adj
/ SskanchEn / / skEStUrGEnt / scheduling
L L
the analysis of a rhythmic structure gushing forth : effusive,
(as a verse) so as to show the overflowing.
elements or units of which its The explorers followed the river to
rhythm is composed. its scaturient source.
There are three major types of
English scansion: the graphic, the scavenging
musical, and the acoustic.
Page 287 of 349

schefflera schnitzel sciamachy
n n n
/ SsheflErE / / SshnitsEl / / sISamEkG /
G name > L G Gk
any of several shrubby tropical a veal cutlet variously seasoned and a fighting with a shadow or an
plants that are cultivated for their garnished. imaginary enemy.
showy foliage. The Bavarian restaurant’s menu Engaging in sciamachy helped the
When frost was predicted, Demont included sauerbraten, sausages, boxer prepare for his next match.
covered the schefflera with a and schnitzel.
blanket. sciatica
scholarly n
scheme adj / sISaZDkE /
v / SskBlE(r)lG / Gk > L
/ SskGm / Gk > L pain along the course of a sciatic
Gk characteristic of one who is nerve or its branches and especially
accomplish by clever contriving. devoted to learning : studious. in the leg.
Walter resolved to scheme out a Nathan’s scholarly habits earned As Alicia struggled out of bed, she
way to get a new bike. him a spot on the honor roll. complained of sciatica in her left
leg.
schemer schooner
n scientific
/ SskGmE(r) / schottische adj
Gk n / TsIEnStifik /
one that forms plots or intrigues. / SshBZish / L
Joe was a schemer who always had G concerned with or treating of a
big plans to get rich. a round dance in duple time branch or department of
characterized by gliding and systematized knowledge that is or
scherzando hopping steps and similar to but can be made a specific object of
adj slower than the polka. study.
/ skertSsBn(T)dP / After an hour of dancing the Alain’s scientific training landed
Gmc > It schottische, Ed and Sarah wearily him a job at Dow Chemical.
playful, jesting—used as a headed for the soda machine.
direction in music indicating style scientist
and tempo. schuss
The Flight of the Bumblebee was n scilicet
played with scherzando lightness. / SshUs /
G scintilla
scherzo a straightaway skiing course.
In a tucked position Kira followed scintillate
schiavone the schuss all the way to the v
bottom. / SsintFlTCt /
schipperke L
schussboomer gleam or emit quick flashes as if
schism n throwing off sparks.
/ SshUsTbVmEr / Mom’s eyes scintillate whenever
schismatic G + imit she is joyously excited.
adj one who skis usually straight
/ sizSmaZik / downhill at high speed. scintillation
Gk > L When the schussboomer lost n
of, relating to, or characteristic of control, he somersaulted and rolled / TsintFlSCshEn /
division, separation, or discord. to the foot of the slope. L
The book describes numerous rapid changes in the brightness of a
schismatic movements in church scialytic celestial body caused by turbulence
history. adj in Earth’s atmosphere.
/ TsIESliZik / The stars’ scintillation is less
schizoid Gk > L pronounced at higher altitudes.
dispersing or dispelling shadows.
schizophrenia After a long night of ghost stories, scintiscan
Erma welcomed the scialytic dawn.
Page 288 of 349

sciolistic scotopia screenplay
adj n n
/ TsIESlistik / / skEStPpGE / / SskrGnTplC /
L Gk + Gk > L D>F>E+E
of or relating to superficial vision in dim light with dark- the written form of a story prepared
knowledge or to one whose adapted eyes believed to be for motion-picture production
knowledge is superficial. mediated by the rods of the retina. including description of characters,
The students’ sciolistic Astronomers rely on scotopia to details of scenes and settings,
conversation amused Professor resolve detail in images. dialogue, and stage directions.
Pickett. The director, with screenplay in
scoundrel hand, was ready for the day’s
sciosophy n filming.
/ SskaUndrEl /
scissors unknown scrimmage
a bold selfish person who has very n
sclerosis low ethical standards. / Sskrimij /
n The treasurer of the company was Gmc > E
/ sklDSrPsDs / fired when he was found out to be practice play between a team’s
Gk an opportunistic scoundrel. various squads.
pathological hardening of tissue Today’s exciting scrimmage is a
produced by overgrowth of fibrous scourge good indication that both squads
tissue and other changes or by n are ready for the upcoming season.
increase in interstitial tissue. / SskErj /
Sclerosis is often a consequence of L>F>E scrimshaw
old age. a social evil. n
Much of the city’s crime is / SskrimTshO /
scofflaw attributed to the scourge of unknown
n recurrent unemployment. any of various carved or engraved
/ SskBfTlO / useful or decorative articles
E+E scraggly sometimes colored by brushing ink
a contemptuous lawbreaker; into the engraved lines and made
especially : one who ignores scramble especially by American whalemen
parking tickets. v from whalebone or whale ivory.
The scofflaw tore up his ticket in / SskrambEl / The whaling museum has a large
front of the police officer and was D? collection of scrimshaw.
subsequently fined $500. prepare (eggs) by stirring during
frying. script
sconce After she burned the meatloaf, n
n Arlene decided to scramble some / Sskript /
/ SskBn(t)s / eggs for dinner. L
L>F>E something written : text.
an ornamental electric light fixture scrawny By the end of vacation, Mary had
for a wall that resembles a bracket adj the entire script of the play
candlestick or group of / SskrOnG / memorized.
candlesticks. unknown
Tamara bought an elaborate marked by an appearance of scriptural
sconce for her hallway. undernourishment : skinny and adj
bony. / SskripchErEl /
scopate The scrawny kitten mewed L > E + Ecf
adj plaintively in the tree. of, relating to, contained in, or
/ SskPTpCt / according to a sacred writing.
L+E Ivan spent five years translating the
resembling a brush. scriptural material.
Some cacti have scopate flowers.
Page 289 of 349

scrivener sculpin scurvy
n n n
/ Sskriv(E)nE(r) / / SskElpDn / / SskErvG /
L>F unknown Scan > E
a professional or public copyist or any of a family of spiny large- a disease characterized by spongy
writer. headed broad-mouthed often gums, loosening of the teeth, and a
The critic dismissed the writer’s scaleless bony fishes. tendency to bleed into the skin and
novel as the uninspired work of a A small sculpin was Van’s only mucous membranes and caused by
scrivener. catch on the expensive charter-boat a dietary deficiency of ascorbic
outing. acid.
scroll Scurvy is easily preventable by
n sculptor eating fruits and vegetables rich in
/ SskrPl / n vitamin C.
Gmc > F > E / SskElptE(r) /
a long strip used as the body of a L scutellate
written document and often having one that carves, engraves, molds, adj
a rod or rods for convenience in welds, or constructs (materials) into / sk(y)VStelDt /
rolling and storing. a primarily three-dimensional work L
The writing on the magician’s of art. rather flat with a distinct rim and a
scroll erased itself after the spell Pablo Picasso was equally rounded to oval outline.
was read aloud. influential as a painter, a sculptor, Beryl opened the packet and
and a draftsman. examined the scutellate seeds.
scrumptious
adj sculpture scuttlebutt
/ SskrEm(p)shEs /
L scuppernong scythe
delightful, excellent. n
The bakery down the street makes a / SskEpE(r)TnON / scytodepsic
scrumptious almond coffee cake. geog name
any of various cultivated seabound
scruples muscadine grape varieties which
n pl have yellowish-green fruit seafaring
/ SskrVpElz / suggesting a plum in flavor.
L Molly picked and ate a searchlight
mental reservations : qualms. scuppernong from her n
Emma recommended the minced grandmother’s grape arbor. / SsErchTlIt /
chicken and scalloped oysters with L>F>E+E
an urgency she knew would be scurrilous an apparatus for projecting a
acceptable to the civil scruples of adj powerful beam of light of
her guests. / SskErElEs / approximately parallel rays usually
L devised so that it can be swiveled
scrupulously containing low obscenities or about.
adv coarse abuse. The festival hired a searchlight to
/ SskrVpyElEslG / The farmers hurled scurrilous sweep the sky and advertise its
L accusations across the barbed-wire presence.
conscientiously, painstakingly. fence.
Katie washes her hands so seasonably
scrupulously that her friends
wonder if she has a psychological sebaceous
disorder. adj
/ sDSbCshEs /
L
relating to, composed of, or
secreting fatty matter.
Oily skin is usually the result of
overactive sebaceous glands.
secco
Page 290 of 349

secede Seder seguidilla
v n n
/ sDSsGd / / SsCdE(r) / / TsCgGSdG(y)E /
L Heb L > Sp
withdraw from a federation. [has homonym: satyr] a Jewish a Spanish dance with many
About ten more deputies have opted home or community service and regional variations or the music for
to secede from the governing ceremonial dinner held on the first this dance performed with guitar
majority. evening of the Passover. and castanets.
Jim had never been to a Seder In the second act of the opera, the
secernment before he met Julia. Spanish gypsy performs a
n seguidilla.
/ sDSsErnmEnt / sediment
L n seiche
[Note: Could be confused with / SsedEmEnt / n
secernent.] the act or process of L / SsCsh /
distinguishing or discriminating in material deposited (as by water, F
thought. wind, or glaciers). an oscillation of the surface of a
The thesaurus proved enlightening The layers of sediment were evident lake or landlocked sea.
in its secernment of the subtle in the shades of color on the rocky A seiche can be almost as powerful
differences between synonyms. hillside. as a tidal wave.
secession sedition seine

n n v
/ sDSseshEn / / sDSdishEn / / SsCn /
L L>F>E E
formal withdrawal from an an insurrection against constituted [has homonym: sane] fish with or
organization (as a religious authority. catch fish with a net that hangs
communion or political party or Because Paul openly advocated the vertically in the water.
federation). overthrow of the government, he David and Joel like to seine for
The history teacher explained that was charged with sedition. perch.
the South’s secession from the
United States was not solely an sedulous seismism
issue regarding slavery. n
seedling / SsIzTmizEm /
secessionist n Gk
/ SsGdliN / earthquake phenomena.
secondariness E + Ecf Ralph gave a report about
a nursery plant (usually a tree) that seismism in Chinese folklore.
secularism has not been transplanted.
Karen bought a maple seedling at seity
secund the tree farm.
seizure
sedens seersucker n
/ SsGzhE(r) /
sedentary seethe E
adj a sudden attack (as of a disease or
/ SsedFnTterG / segue sickness).
L v A seizure of hay fever ruined the
characterized by or requiring sitting / SsC(T)gwC / picnic for Tom.
or slight activity. L > It
Isabelle’s sedentary job provided make a transition from one activity, seldom
little opportunity for exercise. topic, scene, or part to another as or
as if part of a natural progression. selectivity
Senator Ward used an anecdote to
segue to a new topic in his speech.
Page 291 of 349

selenian semolina sententious
adj n adj
/ sDSlGnGEn / / TsemESlGnE / / senStenchEs /
Gk L > It L
of, relating to, or designating the the purified middlings of durum or terse, aphoristic, or moralistic in
Moon. other hard wheat used for macaroni expression : pithy.
Jim’s story tells the tale of an and other alimentary pastes. The sitcom’s drop in popularity
explorer going off to create a The best pasta is made from was attributed to its growing
selenian colony. semolina. tendency toward sententious
sermonizing.
selenologist senary
n adj sentient
/ TselESnBlEjDst / / SsGnErG /
Gk L sentimental
an astronomer who specializes in [has homonym: scenery] of, based
the study of the Moon. upon, or characterized by six : sentinel
The selenologist gave a description compounded of six things : n
of the chief craters of the consisting of six parts. / Ssent(F)nEl /
moonscape. Jethro experimented with music L > It > F
using a senary scale. one that watches or guards.
selenology The sentinel peered into the
senectitude distance through tiny binoculars.
semanteme
n senescent sentry
/ sDSmanTtGm / adj n
Gk > F / sDSnesFnt / / SsentrG /
a word or a base that expresses a L E
definite image or idea— growing old. [has near homonym: century] a
distinguished from morpheme. The town's senescent infrastructure soldier standing guard.
The verb run is an example of a struggled under the burden of a The sentry reported a suspicious
semanteme. growth spurt. vehicle parked down the street from
the barracks.
semaphore seneschal
n separate
semester / SsenDshEl /
n Gmc > F > E sepia
/ sDSmestE(r) / a bailiff, steward, or majordomo of n
L a great medieval lord. / SsGpGE /
either of the two periods of The seneschal pounded his staff on Gk > L
instruction commonly 18 weeks in the floor three times and a pigment of rich brown color
length into which an academic year announced the king’s visitors. containing melanin, prepared from
is usually divided. the ink of various cuttlefishes, and
Yolanda was delighted that her senile used in watercolor painting and in
grades for the first semester were ink.
all A’s. sensibilia Black-and-white photographs can
be stained with sepia to give them
semiautomatic sensibility an old-fashioned look.
seminary sensible septennial

n adj
/ SsemETnerG / sensory / sepStenGEl /
L adj L
an institution for the training of / Ssen(t)s(E)rG / continuing or lasting for seven
candidates for the priesthood, L+E years.
ministry, or rabbinate. of or relating to the senses. Since legislation in 1716 the British
The pulpit committee’s first choice In some insects the sensory organs government has had septennial
is a young person who has just of taste, touch, smell, and hearing parliaments; previously they were
completed seminary. are located in the antennae. triennial.
Page 292 of 349

septentrional sequester serictery
adj v n
/ sepStentrGEnFl / / sDSkwestE(r) / / sDSriktErG /
L L>F>E Gk > L
northern. hide from public view : seclude. the silk-producing gland of a
The septentrional seaports of The judge wanted to sequester the caterpillar or other insect larva.
Russia are frozen in the winter. jury to keep them from hearing As it spins its cocoon, the silkworm
news reports that might sway their caterpillar secretes a gummy
septuagenarian opinions. substance from each serictery.
n
/ TsepTt(y)VEjESnerGEn / seraphic serigraphy
L adj
a person who is 70 or more but / sDSrafik / sermonize
fewer than 80 years old. Heb > L v
Aunt Daisy is proud of the fact that of, relating to, or befitting an angel / SsErmETnIz /
she has lived to be a of the highest order especially in F>E
septuagenarian. beauty or ecstatic adoration. address at length in a didactic and
The choir’s hymn of praise sounded solemn manner.
sepulchral sublimely seraphic. Everyone is hoping that Dad won’t
adj find something to sermonize about
/ sDSpElkrEl / serenade when he chaperones the school
L v dance.
having a funereal quality. / TserESnCd /
Dusk and a vase of gardenias gave L > It > F serotinal
the parlor a sepulchral air. play or sing music in honor of. adj
The football team plans to serenade / sDSrBtFnEl /
sequaciousness its coach during the pep rally. L + Ecf
n of or relating to the latter and
/ sDSkwCshEsnes / serendipitous usually drier part of summer.
L>E adj Many small ponds dry up during
the quality or state of being / TserDnSdipEZEs / the serotinal season.
imitative or obsequious. Ar geog name + Ecf
Cal’s sequaciousness failed to win obtained or characterized by serpiginous
him a promotion. unexpected but fortunate discovery.
Mickey’s serendipitous discovery of serrated
sequel five quarters and two dimes on the adj
n sidewalk made his day. / SseTrCZDd /
/ SsGkwEl / L
L serge notched or toothed on the edge.
continuation; especially : a literary Under the microscope, dust mites
work continuing the course of a seriatim appear to be hairy monsters with
narrative begun in a preceding one. adv serrated claws.
The film was so popular that the / TsirGSCZDm /
producer asked the screenwriter for L serrefine
a sequel. in sequence.
Although the classes meet seriatim, serried
sequela each day of the week starts with a adj
n different class in the series. / SserGd /
/ sDSkwelE / F
L sericeous crowded or pressed together.
an aftereffect of disease or injury. adj The serried tenements of the big
Peeling of the skin is a common / sDSrishEs / city soon gave way to rolling hills.
sequela of sunburn. Gk > L
having a fuzzy surface; specifically
: covered with soft, silky hairs.
The plant’s sericeous leaves felt
almost like velvet.
Page 293 of 349

serviceable shackle shale
adj v n
/ SsErvDsEbEl / / SshakEl / / SshCl /
L>F E E
suited for a purpose. [has homonym: shackel] confine a fissile rock that is formed by the
Filene lamented that the poncho’s the limbs of so as to prevent free consolidation of clay, mud, or silt.
design, though serviceable, is not motion. The petroleum refinery also
very fashionable. The prisoner of war told the United markets by-products of shale.
Nations delegation that his guards
servile had threatened to shackle him 24 shallot
adj hours a day. n
/ SsErvEl / / shESlBt /
L shaddock L>F
[has homonym: serval] of, relating n a perennial herb that resembles an
to, or appropriate to slaves. / SshadEk / onion and is used in cooking.
Oscar was thankful to be be freed E name Ted didn’t have time to go to the
from his servile status. a very large thick-rinded typically store again, so he substituted a
pear-shaped citrus fruit. white onion for a shallot in the
sesquicentennial The shaddock resembles the recipe.
n grapefruit but is larger, coarser,
/ TseskwDsenStenGEl / and drier. shanghai
L v
a 150th anniversary. shadiness / SshaNThI /
The state issued special license n Chinese geog name
plates to commemorate its / SshCdGnDs / to put by trickery into an
sesquicentennial. E + Ecff undesirable position.
the quality or state of comparative Winona won't allow the
sesquipedalian darkness. condominium board to shanghai
adj On a hot day, the cool shadiness of her into serving as its president.
/ TseskwDpDSdClyEn / a tree is very welcome.
L shanghaied
given to or characterized by the use shaganappi
of long words. shears
Norbert dozed off halfway through shagreen
the principal’s sesquipedalian n shebang
speech. / SshaTgrGn /
F>E sheepshearer
session an untanned leather covered with n
small round granulations and dyed / SshGpTshirE(r) /
severance a bright color. E+E
Chloe bought the bride and groom a person that cuts the wool from
sewage leather placemats made of sheep by hand or machine.
n shagreen. At the county fair, the sheepshearer
/ SsVij / always draws the largest crowd.
L>F>E shako
waste matter that is carried away by n shekel
a drain. / Ssha(T)kP / n
The smell of sewage permeated the G > Hung > F / SshekEl /
dilapidated building. a stiff military headdress with a Hebrew
metal plate in front, a high crown, a Hebrew unit of weight equal to
and a plume. about 252 grains troy.
Each member of the band wore a In the Talmudist system, a shekel is
plumed shako in parades. 1/60 of a mina.
shenanigan
Page 294 of 349

shenanigans shipwreck shubunkin
n pl n
/ shDSnanDgEnz / / SshiTprek / shuddering
unknown E + Scand > F > E v
high-spirited, daring, or a large ruined or stranded seagoing / SshEd(E)riN /
mischievous acts : pranks. boat or its parts. E
On the first day of school Mrs. The shipwreck was mottled with shaking with fear, aversion, horror,
Gibson warned the class that she barnacles. or cold.
would not put up with any Joan woke shuddering from a
shenanigans in her classroom. shivering nightmare.
v
shepherdess / Sshiv(E)riN / sibilant
n E adj
/ SshepE(r)dDs / trembling due to cold, fear, or / SsibElEnt /
E physical pressure. L imit
a woman or girl who tends sheep. Norma was shivering because she having, containing, or producing
Alma painted a watercolor of a did not dress in warm clothing. the sound of or a sound resembling
shepherdess and three lambs. that of the s or the sh in sash.
shoal “She sells sea shells. . . .” is a
sheriff n sibilant tongue twister.
n / SshPl /
/ SsherDf / E siccative
E [Note: The definition provided is adj
a county officer who is usually not the one most commonly / SsikEZiv /
elected by the people of the county associated with this word. In L
and has the duty of preserving the addition, word has homonym: causing to dry : promoting the
peace. shole.] a great number thronged action of drying.
The office of sheriff is a holdover together or considered as a group. Zinc oxide is often used as a
from medieval English law. The spelling bee champion received siccative agent for skin rashes.
a shoal of congratulatory letters in
shibboleth the month following her win. sickle
n
/ SshibElDth / shrapnel sicklocyte
Heb n n
a custom or usage regarded as a / SshrapnEl / / Ssik(E)lETsIt /
criterion for distinguishing E name E + Gk
members of one group (as a social bomb, mine, or shell fragments. an abnormal red blood cell of
class) from those of another. The surgeon found and removed all crescent shape.
Table manners are sometimes used of the shrapnel in the soldier’s leg, The patient with sickle-cell anemia
as a shibboleth of class distinction. ensuring a swift recovery. wanted to see a sicklocyte under
the microscope.
shillibeer shrewdness
n n sidereal
/ SshilETbi(E)r / / SshrVdnDs / adj
E name E / sISdirGEl /
a horse-drawn hearse with seats for the quality or state of being L
mourners. discerning or astute. [has near homonym: sideral] of or
The museum has acquired an Shrewdness is Janet’s strong suit. relating to stars or constellations.
ornate Victorian shillibeer. Time-lapse photography was used
shriek by the observatory to detect
shillyshallyer n sidereal motion.
/ SshrGk /
shindig E
n a shrill, usually wild or involuntary
/ SshinTdig / cry.
E Nancy let out a shriek when her
a jovial social affair that includes little brother dropped an ice cube
dancing. down the back of her dress.
Max hosted the shindig at the hotel.
Page 295 of 349

siege silica similarity
n n
/ SsGj / / SsilDkE / simile
L>F>E L n
the operations of an army around a the chemically resistant dioxide of / SsimE(T)lG /
fortified place for the purpose of a nonmetallic element that occurs L
compelling its surrender by assault in combined form as the most a figure of speech comparing two
or blockade. abundant element next to oxygen in essentially unlike things and often
The defenders were confident they Earth’s crust. introduced by like or as.
could outlast the siege, since the Nora learned from her research Kermit has a pet chicken and
castle had an underground source that silica is used for making glass knows firsthand what the simile “as
of fresh water. and ceramic products and is found scarce as hens’ teeth” means.
naturally in quartz and sand.
siffilate simnel
v siliciferous n
/ SsifETlCt / adj / SsimnEl /
L>F / TsilESsif(E)rEs / Semitic? > L > F > E
whisper. L a rich fruit cake sometimes covered
The diners began to siffilate when producing, containing, or united with almond paste.
the celebrity entered the restaurant. with silica. Auntie Grace always serves simnel
When geologists analyzed the during the December holidays.
sightseer siliciferous rock, they found quartz
n and chlorite veins. simpatico
/ SsItTsGE(r) / adj
E silicon / simSpBZDTkP /
one that visits places of interest. n L > It
The unusual sightseer asked / SsilDkEn / possessing attractive qualities :
whether anyone had noticed any L appealing, likable.
interesting manhole covers or drain [Note: Could be confused with The hero of the novel is a
grates in the area. silicone.] a nonmetallic element thoroughly simpatico character.
that occurs abundantly in combined
signature form and is used chiefly in the form simulacrum
of alloys. n
silentiary The scientist was striving to devise / TsimyESlCkrEm /
n a new method for purifying silicon L
/ sISlenchGTerG / for use in fabricating microchips. a representation of something :
L image, effigy.
one appointed to keep silence and sillar A simulacrum of Elvis stood at the
order (as in a court of law or a n entrance to the wax museum.
public assembly). / sGlSyBr /
One stern glance from the L > Sp simulcast
silentiary was all it took to stop [has somewhat near homonym: v
Karsten’s insipid murmuring. sillier] building material consisting / SsImElTkast /
of large blocks cut from a natural L + ON > E
silhouette deposit. broadcast by radio and television
n The hikers came upon a low simultaneously.
/ TsilESwet / structure made of sillar and nearly Years ago, radio and television
F name covered in vines. stations would sometimes simulcast
a representation of the outlines of operatic performances to provide
an object filled in with black or sillographer listeners with quality stereophonic
some other uniform color. n sound.
Mrs. Baldwin has a framed / sDSlBgrEfE(r) /
silhouette of each of her children Gk simultaneity
on the wall of her foyer. a writer of satires.
The marble bust of the ancient simultaneous
silhouettist sillographer crashed to the library
floor.
Page 296 of 349

simultaneously sinuosity skeleton
adv n n
/ TsImElStCnGEslG / / TsinyESwBsEZG / / SskelEtFn /
L L Gk
at the same time : concurrently. the quality or state of bending in the bones of a human being or
Jason, who often types and talks and out. other vertebrate.
simultaneously, calls himself a The sinuosity of the mountain road Dr. Symonds has a real human
“master of multitasking.” taxed Ken’s driving skills. skeleton in his office.
sinciput
sinusitis skewbald
sinecure n
n / TsInESsIZDs / skewer
/ SsinDTkyU(E)r / L n
L inflammation of any of the several / SskyVE(r) /
an office or position that requires cavities in the skull. unknown
little or no work and that usually The allergist explained that Alice’s [has near homonym: skua] a pin of
provides an income. headaches and sneezing are due to wood or metal for fastening meat to
The mayor made the grave mistake sinusitis. keep in form while roasting or to
of handing out a sinecure to a hold small pieces of meat and
friend. Sioux vegetables for broiling.
adj Maggie put pieces of steak and
sinew / SsV / vegetables on the skewer.
n Dakota
/ Ssi(T)nyV / [has homonyms: sault, sou, sue] of skillet
E or relating to the Dakota people or n
tendon; especially : one dressed for their language. / SskilDt /
use as a cord or thread. Following a speech in Sioux E
Ephraim wore a jade pendant in language, the dancers began the frying pan.
the shape of a bear on a sinew Sun Dance. A quality deep skillet has many
around his neck. uses in the kitchen.
sirloin
singeing n skimeister
/ SsErTlOin / n
singular L>F>E / SskGTmIstE(r) /
adj a cut of meat and especially of beef G+ L>G
/ SsiNgyElE(r) / taken from the hindquarters. [Note: Caution should be taken not
L The butcher cut the sirloin into to confuse second part of this
extraordinary, exceptional. steaks for his customers. compound word with master.] a
The singular quality of Sean’s professional skier or skiing
voice was the envy of all the other sitology instructor.
choir members. n Diantha pretended to be a poor
/ sIStBlEjG / skier just to get close to the
singularize Gk handsome skimeister.
v [Word has homonym: cytology. In
/ SsiNgyElETrIz / addition, an alternate pronunciation skimpiness
L + Ecf has near homonym: cetology.] the n
distinguish. science of nutrition and dietetics. / SskimpGnDs /
By practicing every day, Ben Deirdre plans to major in sitology Scand? > E? + Ecff
believed he could singularize and write cookbooks for the quality or state of being
himself in the school orchestra. vegetarians. deficient in supply or execution.
The skimpiness of Eunice’s budget
sinistral skedaddle did not allow for many luxuries.
adj v
/ SsinDstrEl / / skDSdadFl /
L unknown
of or relating to the left. run away : leave hastily.
The sorcerer’s mask was ripped A sudden shower caused Karen to
away, revealing terrible scars on skedaddle from the bazaar.
the sinistral side of his face.
Page 297 of 349

skirmish slapstick slumgullion
n n n
/ SskErmish / / SslapTstik / / TslEmSgElyEn /
F>E G imit + E unknown + (L > F > E)?
a minor dispute or contest between comedy that depends for its effect a meat stew.
opposing parties. on fast, boisterous, and zany The sailors protested when they
Winston hopes that his skirmish physical activity and horseplay were served yet another meal of
with the neighbors over his dog often accompanied by broad rowdy slumgullion.
does not foreshadow a lengthy verbal humor.
feud. The Three Stooges were famous for smectic
their slapstick.
skirret smoggy
n sleazily adj
/ SskirDt / / SsmBgG /
Ar? > F > E sledgehammer (E + Scand?) > E
an Asiatic herb cultivated in characterized by or abounding in a
Europe for its sweet edible sleuth fog made heavier and darker by
tuberous roots. v smoke and chemical fumes.
After foraging for an hour, Yang / SslVth / The smoggy atmosphere of Los
happened on a skirret, the roots of ON > E Angeles aggravated Frank’s
which he would boil and eat. act as a detective or investigator : allergies.
search for information or facts.
skittish There are several game programs smorgasbord
that teach children how to sleuth n
skoal out facts and figures on the / SsmOrgEsTbOrd /
Internet. Sw
skookum a luncheon or supper buffet
adj slobberhannes offering a variety of foods and
/ SskVkEm / dishes.
Chinook sloganeer Nita’s smorgasbord included
marked by excellent quality : first- n turkey and smoked salmon.
rate. / TslPgESni(E)r /
Liz felt sure that the pail of Gaelic snagrel
blueberries would make a skookum a coiner or user of brief striking n
pie. phrases in advertising or / SsnagrDl /
promotion. unknown
slalom Without the sloganeer, most an herb of the genus Aristolochia of
n commercials would probably be the eastern United States.
/ SslBlEm / deadly dull. Snagrel is also called Virginia
Norw snakeroot.
skiing in a zigzag or wavy course slovenly
between upright obstacles. adj snood
Tully did the slalom down the / SslEvEnlG / n
moutainside. G or Flemish / SsnVd /
negligent of neatness and order E
slanderous especially in dress or person. a net or fabric bag for confining a
He that is born under Capricorn woman’s hair pinned or tied on at
slantindicular shall incline to the slovenly. the back of the head.
adj Kathryn auditioned for a part in the
/ TslantFnSdikyElE(r) / sluice Noel Coward play wearing a tea-
E+L>F>E n length gown and snood from the
somewhat oblique. / SslVs / 1930s.
The main staircase of the new L>F>E
library rises at a slantindicular a body of water pent up behind a
angle to the facade. floodgate.
Ellen crossed the sluice in a canoe.
Page 298 of 349

soavemente solder soliloquy
adv v n
/ sPTBvCSmentC / / SsBdE(r) / / sESlilEkwG /
L > It L>F>E L
with sweetness or smoothness : in a [has homonym: sodder] unite or a discourse made by one in solitude
gentle manner—used as a direction make whole by means of a melted to oneself.
in music. metallic alloy. At the talent contest Angelo stepped
The serenade was played Jennifer’s science class learned into the spotlight and recited
soavemente by the strings. how to solder wires so they could Hamlet’s famous soliloquy “To be
experiment with electrical circuits. or not to be, . . .”
sociable solipsism
adj soldier n
/ SsPshEbEl / / SsPlDpTsizEm /
L solecism L
enjoying companionship. extreme indulgence of and concern
The dolphin is one of the most solecistic with the self at the expense of
sociable creatures known to man. adj social relationships especially as
/ TsBlESsistik / expressed in a failure of artistic
sodality Gk > L communication.
relating to, constituting, or Critics accused the popular actor
sojourner involving an ungrammatical of solipsism.
n combination of words in a
/ SsPTjErnE(r) / sentence. solitaire
F>E Careful writers shun as solecistic n
one that stays as a temporary the use of the word like as a / SsBlETta(E)r /
resident. conjunction. L
Even though he had lived there for a card game designed for one
five years, Russell knew he was solfatara person to play alone.
regarded as a sojourner by the n Shelley often relaxes by playing
neighbors. / TsBlfEStBrE / solitaire after everyone else has
L > It gone to bed.
solace a volcanic area or vent that yields
v sulfur gases and hot vapors and soliterraneous
/ SsBlDs / represents a late stage of volcanic adj
L activity. / TsPlEtESrCnGEs /
[has near homonym: solus] Harry noticed a rotten-egg odor L
console. coming from a solfatara on the of or relating to Earth and the Sun.
When Janie learned she had failed north side of the previously inactive Scientists attribute the recent
her swimming exam, she decided to volcano. drought to soliterraneous causes.
solace herself by going out to a
movie. solferino solivagant
adj
solatium solicitous / sPSlivEgEnt /
n adj L
/ sPSlCshGEm / / sESlisEZEs / marked by solitary wandering.
L L During his first semester in college,
something that alleviates or manifesting or expressing concern. Gerry took frequent solivagant
compensates for suffering or loss; Dr. Turner is especially solicitous walks around the campus.
especially : an additional allowance toward his older patients.
(as for injured feelings). solleret
The government offered a solatium n
to the families of those killed in the / TsBlESret /
terrorist bombing. L>F
a flexible steel shoe forming part of
a medieval suit of armor.
The curator explained that the
cumbersome solleret had to be
removed to allow the knight to fight
on foot.
Page 299 of 349

solmization somnambulant sophomore
adj n
solon / sBmSnambyElEnt / / SsBf(E)TmP(E)r /
n L+L Gk
/ SsPlEn / walking or addicted to walking a student in his second year or with
Gk name while asleep. second-year standing at a college.
a wise and skillful lawgiver or Sheila could remember nothing of As a sophomore, Jason was
statesman. her somnambulant activities when expected to find a one-semester
Judge Kantz is revered throughout she was told of them the next internship in his major subject.
the county as a solon. morning.
soporific
solstice somniloquist adj
n / TsBpESrifik /
/ SsBlztDs / somnolence L>F
L>F>E causing or tending to cause sleep.
one of two points on the ecliptic at sonorous The students valiantly attempted to
which its distance from the celestial adj fight off the soporific effects of the
equator is greatest and which is / SsBnErEs / lecture.
reached by the Sun each year about L
June 22nd and December 23rd. characterized by full or loud sound sorbet
The North Pole is tilted directly often with clear or rich tone, n
toward the Sun at the summer marked volume, or easy audibility. / SsOrbDt /
solstice. Alex’s sonorous voice made him Turkish > It > F
the clear choice to perform the [Note: Could be confused with
solstitial reading. sherbet.] a frozen dessert made
adj with a mixture of fruits.
/ sBlzStishEl / soothsaying Wylie ate sorbet between courses to
L cleanse his palate.
of or relating to the two points on sophisticate
the ecliptic at which its distance v sorcerer
from the celestial equator is / sESfistETkCt / n
greatest and which is reached by Gk > L / SsO(r)s(E)rE(r) /
the Sun each year about June 22nd alter deceptively: adulterate. L>F
and December 23rd. Lanny feared that someone would magician.
Ancient myths about the eternal sophisticate the survey results. Traveling alone in the dark, the
battle between light and dark are sorcerer saw no harm in conjuring
tied to equinoctial and solstitial sophistry up a lamp for his convenience.
moments in the year. n
/ SsBfDstrG / sorcery
solvolysis Gk > F
reasoning that is superficially sorghum
sombrero plausible but actually fallacious. n
n Larry’s masterful but irresponsible / SsOrgEm /
/ sEmSbre(T)rP / sophistry easily convinced naïve L? > It
Sp listeners. syrup produced by evaporating the
a high-crowned hat of felt or straw juice from stems of certain tropical
with a very wide brim worn Sophoclean grasses.
especially in the Southwest and in adj Rachel likes sorghum on her
Mexico. / TsBfESklGEn / oatmeal.
Maria was dressed quite Gk name
expensively, with leather boots of, relating to, or characteristic of
covering her legs and a dark the Athenian tragic poet Sophocles
sombrero poised levelly on her or his dramas.
head. Finding a new Sophoclean
fragment in the museum’s papyri
was Gunther’s claim to fame.
Page 300 of 349

sorrel souterrain spatiotemporal
n adj
/ SsOrEl / southpaw / TspCshG(T)PStemp(E)rEl /
Gmc > F > E n L
[has homonyms: saurel, soral, / SsaUthTpO / having the quality of something
sorel] a light bright chestnut horse E+F>E that is at once extended and
often with white mane and tail. left-hander; specifically : a left- enduring.
Ken promised to take good care of handed baseball pitcher. The philosopher pointed out that
the sorrel his dad had bought for Some fans think Babe Ruth was the two things cannot coexist in one
him. best southpaw ever to play major spatiotemporal point.
league baseball.
sortie spatterdock
souvenir
sortileger n spatula
n / TsVvESni(E)r / n
/ SsO(r)ZFlijE(r) / L>F / SspachElE /
L something that serves as a L
one that tells fortunes; especially : a reminder : memento, remembrance. a flat thin flexible dull-edged
person who for payment predicts Moira kept a seashell as a souvenir usually metal implement used
what are claimed to be future of her trip to the ocean. especially for spreading or mixing
events or influences in the life of soft substances, scooping, or
another. spacious lifting.
The sortileger predicted a radical With batter on his face and a
change in Frank’s lifestyle. spacistor spatula in his fist, Casey smiled for
n his mom and her camera.
soubise / SspCTsistE(r) /
n L species
/ sVSbGz / a high-frequency semiconductor n pl
F geog name amplifying device. / SspG(T)shGz /
a white or brown sauce containing The spacistor has replaced the L
onions or onion puree. transistor because of its greater a category of biological
A sauceboat of soubise ability to amplify electrical energy. classification ranking immediately
accompanied the roast. below a genus or subgenus.
spaghetti The housefly belongs to the genus
soubresaut n Musca and the species domestica.
n / spESgeZG /
/ TsVbrESsP / It speciesism
L>F a pasta made in solid strings of n
a ballet jump from and a landing on small diameter but larger than / SspG(T)s(h)GTzizEm /
both feet in closed position. vermicelli. L + Ecf
Keith demonstrated his lack of The specialty of the restaurant was prejudice or discrimination based
ballet prowess with an awkward spaghetti with meat sauce. on species; especially :
soubresaut. discrimination against animals.
spandex Some animal rights activists go so
soubrette far as to claim that swatting a fly is
spangle an act of speciesism.
sourdough n
/ SspaNgEl / specimen
sousaphone Scand > E n
n a small object that brightly reflects / SspesEmDn /
/ SsVzETfPn / light. L
Amer name + Gk > E The packrat ran out into the road a particular single item, part,
a large circular tuba having a to pick up the glittering spangle. aspect, or incident that is typical
flaring adjustable bell. and indicative of the nature,
The band director was looking for spaniel character, or quality of others in the
someone who could play the same class or group.
sousaphone. At the museum Ken and Allison saw
an excellent specimen of a moon
soutane rock.
Page 301 of 349

specious sphagnum spinescent
adj n adj
/ SspGshEs / / SsfagnEm / / spISnesFnt /
L Gk > L L
superficially fair, just, or correct, any plant of a large genus of tapering to a sharp rigid point.
but not so in reality. atypical mosses that grow only in The fish Homer caught had two
Only after the candidate was very wet acid areas where their spinescent fins.
elected was the actual truth of her accumulated remains become
specious claims exposed. compacted with other plant debris spinet
to form peat. n
spectral A large patch of sphagnum grew in / SspinDt /
adj the bog by the police station. L > It
/ SspektrEl / a compactly built upright piano of
L spherical reduced height and usually reduced
of, like, or relating to a adj keyboard suitable for limited space.
disembodied spirit, apparition, or / SsfirDkEl / Percival didn’t have room for a
ghost. Gk > L + Ecf full-size piano in his studio
Galloping toward him was a like a sphere : globular. apartment, so he bought a spinet.
spectral rider on horseback. Linda suspected that the spherical
rock she found was a geode. spinnaker
spectrum n
n spheterize / SspinDkE(r) /
/ SspektrEm / v unknown
L / SsfeZETrIz / a large triangular sail set on a long
a series of images formed when a Gk light pole and used when running
beam of light is subjected to take for one’s own : appropriate. before the wind.
dispersion. The invading army proceeded to The spinnaker on Diane’s boat is
The specialty store carried a spheterize the villagers’ private cardinal red.
spectrum of ties to suit any man’s property.
taste. spiracle
sphinx n
speleologist n / SspirEkEl /
n / SsfiN(k)s / L
/ TspGlGSBlEjDst / Gk > L one of the breathing pores found on
Gk > L > ISV a monster in Greek mythology the thorax and abdomen of an
a specialist in the scientific study or having typically a lion’s body, insect.
systematic exploration of caves. wings, and the head and bust of a The muscular valve of a spiracle
Dale’s work as a speleologist takes woman. opens only to allow the uptake of
him to spectacular natural features According to Greek legend, the oxygen and the escape of carbon
around the world. sphinx of Thebes would pose a dioxide.
riddle to a passerby and then kill
speleothem that person if he or she could not spiritual
n answer it.
/ SspGlGETthem / splendent
Gk > L > ISV + Gk spiedino
a cave deposit or formation. n splenectomize
Receding waters have left a / TspGESdG(T)nP /
speleothem of carbonate on the Gmc > F > It splenetic
cavern floor. a dish of meat rolled around a adj
filling or minced and formed into / splDSneZik /
spelunking balls, then usually batter-dipped Gk > L
n and cooked on a skewer. marked by morose bad temper,
/ spDSlENkiN / The chef grilled a spiedino of beef sullen malevolence, or spiteful,
E on a charcoal grill. peevish anger.
the hobby or practice of exploring The splenetic critic gave the
caves. musical a scathing review.
Spelunking is a popular activity in
eastern Kentucky. spoliation
Page 302 of 349

spondylitis sporran squelch
n n v
/ TspBndESlIZDs / / SspBrEn / / Sskwelch /
Gk > L ScotGael imit
inflammation of the vertebrae. a large pouch of skin with the hair move with water or mud in one’s
Jewel’s back pain was caused by or fur on that is worn in front of the shoes and produce a sucking or
spondylitis. kilt by Highlanders in full dress and splashing sound.
used as a purse. After playing in mud puddles all the
spongicolous Angus picked up a quarter and put way home, Frances tried to squelch
it in his sporran. quietly to her room without getting
sponson caught by her mother.
springerle
spontaneity n squirrel
n / Ss(h)priNErlE / n
/ TspBntESnGEZG / G / SskwEr(E)l /
L a thick hard cookie usually flavored Gk > L > F > E
the quality or state of being with anise and impressed with a any of various widely distributed
unconstrained or impulsive. relief design and traditionally eaten small to medium-sized rodents that
Brian has always liked to stick to a at Christmas in German-speaking have a bushy tail and long strong
schedule, but lately he has shown countries. hind limbs.
more spontaneity than usual. Klaus broke his tooth on a stale On the trunk of the tree, a brown
springerle. squirrel was clinging and watching
spontaneous the boy below.
adj spur
/ spBnStCnGEs / stabilimeter
L spurious
proceeding from natural feeling or stable
native tendency without external squadron
constraint. staccato
His employee’s spontaneous squalid adj
obedience made Tim’s job adj / stESkBZ(T)P /
pleasant. / SskwBlDd / F > It
L marked by short clear-cut playing
spoonerism marked by filthiness and or singing of tones or chords.
n degradation usually from neglect. Marcia’s piano teacher told her to
/ SspVnETrizEm / The squalid tenement building was practice the etude’s staccato
E name condemned and scheduled for passage several minutes each day.
a transposition of usually initial demolition.
sounds of two or more words that stagnant
generally creates a comic effect. squaliform adj
Vivian was afraid that she would adj / SstagnEnt /
utter a spoonerism in her / SskwClETfOrm / L
recitation. L>E having undergone physical changes
resembling a shark or dogfish in while standing; especially :
sporadically form. impaired in flavor, odor, or texture
While scuba diving, Mike by such changes.
sporogenous encountered a group of curious Josh stood still in disbelief after
adj squaliform fish. Kevin pushed him into the stagnant
/ spESrBjEnEs / water of the ditch.
Gk > L squeamish
producing or adapted to the adj stalactite
production of minute unicellular / SskwGmish / n
reproductive bodies. AF > E / stESlakTtIt /
The botany class studied the inclined to become nauseated : Gk
development of the fern’s queasy. a deposit of calcium carbonate
sporogenous tissue. Pat is squeamish when it comes to resembling an icicle hanging from
rides at the fair. the roof or sides of a cavern.
It takes hundreds of years for a
stalactite to form.
Page 303 of 349

stalagmite stanniferous stationery
n adj n
/ stESlagTmIt / / staSnif(E)rEs / / SstCshETnerG /
Gk Celt > L L>F>E
a deposit of crystalline calcium containing tin. [has homonym: stationary]
carbonate more or less like an In Spain, Italy, and the Middle East materials (as paper, pens, pencils,
inverted stalactite formed on the pottery is sometimes covered with a ink, blankbooks, ledgers, and
floor of a cave. white stanniferous glaze as a base cards) for writing or typing.
A gigantic stalagmite blocked the for other decoration. Claudia complained that just
spelunker’s path. before the beginning of every
stannous school year the office stationery
stalwart adj began to disappear.
adj / SstanEs /
/ SstOlwE(r)t / L statistician
E of, relating to, or containing tin— n
brave, valiant, resolute. used especially of compounds in / TstaZDSstishEn /
The new musical comedy is based which this element is bivalent. L>G
on the story of Robin Hood and his In geology class Syadi was one versed in or engaged in
stalwart companions. surprised to learn that cassiterite, compiling masses of numerical
the principal ore of tin, is not data.
stamina considered stannous. Jamie’s career as a statistician
n began with following baseball
/ SstamEnE / stanzaical scores.
L adj
strength or courage of conviction : / TstanSzCikEl / statistics
staying power. L > It n pl
The elderly senator doubted that he relating to or consisting of groups / stEStistiks /
had the stamina to last through of lines arranged together in a L
another election campaign. recurring pattern of metrical a science dealing with the
lengths and usually a sequence of collection, analysis, interpretation,
stamnos rhymes. and presentation of masses of
Kerri prefers poetry with a more numerical data.
stampede stanzaical form. Our state has lost some of its voting
n clout because of statistics reported
/ stamSpGd / stapes by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Gmc > Sp
a wild headlong rush or flight of a statically statuesque
number of animals usually due to adv adj
fright. / SstaZDk(E)lG / / TstachESwesk /
The lightning strike caused a cattle Gk > L L > F > E + F > Ecf
stampede. in stable or unchanging terms. having a massive dignity or
Alan's problem was that he always impressiveness : majestic.
stanchion viewed problems statically. A statuesque sculpture stood in the
n town square.
/ SstanchEn / stationary
L>F adj steadily
an upright bar, post, prop, brace, or / SstCshETnerG /
support. L stearic
When Oliver lost control of his car, [has homonym: stationery] fixed in
it swerved and hit a traffic-light a place, position, course, or mode. steatogenous
stanchion. The clerk calmly remained in a
stationary position. steeple
stegosaur
Page 304 of 349

steinkern stertorous stifle
n adj v
/ Ss(h)tInTkern / / SstErZErEs / / SstIfEl /
G L F>E
a fossil consisting of a stony mass characterized by a harsh snoring or kill by smothering : asphyxiate.
that entered a hollow natural object gasping sound. Smoke can stifle a person in a short
(as a bivalve shell) in the form of While asleep in his easy chair, period of time.
mud or sediment, was consolidated, Uncle Max would give a start every
and remained as a cast after few minutes, briefly awakened by stimulus
dissolution of the mold. his own stertorous breathing.
For show-and-tell, Rose brought in stipend
a steinkern she had found at the stethoscope n
beach. n / SstITpend /
/ SstethETskPp / L
stellar Gk > F a fixed sum of money typically
adj an instrument used for the detection modest in amount that is paid
/ SstelE(r) / and study of sounds within the periodically in compensation for
L body. services.
of, relating to, or derived from the Heard through a stethoscope, the The university gave Professor
stars. rumbling of the stomach can sound Barrett a stipend for his lecture
Rapid stellar rotation can modify like a storm at sea. series.
the structure of a star’s
atmosphere. stevedore stirrup
n
stenographer / SstGvETdP(E)r / stochastic
n L > Sp adj
/ stDSnBgrEfE(r) / one who works at or is responsible / stESkastik /
Gk + Gk for the loading or unloading of a Gk
one who is employed chiefly to ship in port. lacking or seeming to lack a regular
take and transcribe dictation. The stevedore returned to the ship plan, purpose, or pattern.
Sergeant Fitzpatrick called in a after dining at his favorite dockside Vince programmed the computer to
stenographer to record the restaurant. create a stochastic series of
suspect’s confession. numbers.
stewardess
stentorophonic n stoically
/ Sst(y)VE(r)dDs /
steppe E stolkjaerre
n a woman who attends to the needs
/ Sstep / of passengers (as on an airplane, stollen
Russ ship, or train). n
[has homonym: step] one of the When addressed as stewardess, / Ss(h)tPlEn /
vast tracts in southeastern Europe Emily requested that she be called G
or Asia that are usually level and a flight attendant. [has homonym: stolen] a sweet
without forests. yeast bread containing fruits and
The tourists explored the steppe in sthenic nuts, usually made in a long oval
search of exotic wildlife. adj loaf.
/ Ssthenik / Henrietta found a recipe for stollen
stereotype Gk in her German cookbook.
marked by excessive vitality or
sternutation nervous energy. strabismus
n Fido’s sthenic symptoms finally n
/ TstErnyEStCshEn / subsided. / strESbizmEs /
L Gk > L
the act, fact, or noise of sneezing. inability of one eye to attain
Pat’s sternutation was so frequent binocular vision with the other
and loud that his office mate asked because of imbalance of the
to be transferred to another extrinsic eye muscles.
department. Corrective surgery was performed
to remedy Herman’s strabismus.
Page 305 of 349

straiten strephosymbolia strident
v n adj
/ SstrCtFn / / Tstre(T)fPTsimSbPlGE / / SstrIdFnt /
L>F>E Gk L
[has homonym: straighten] cause reversal or transposition of phrases, marked by insistent, discordant,
to suffer or ebb by reason of words, or letters or of any symbols harsh, shrill, or grating noise or
insufficient funds : reduce (as especially in reading. sound.
oneself) to poverty. Because of his strephosymbolia, Mary-Ellen’s fingernails produced
With the generous university grant, Ryan was diagnosed as having a a strident sound as she drew them
Joanne’s family would not have to learning disorder. across the blackboard.
straiten itself to provide the
education she desired. strepitous strigil
adj n
strangulate / SstrepEZEs / / SstrijDl /
v L L
/ SstraNgyETlCt / characterized or accompanied by an instrument usually of metal or
L much noise. ivory used by the ancient Greeks
compress the windpipe of until The playoff game was a strepitous and Romans for scraping the skin
death results from stoppage of event. especially after athletic exercises.
respiration. Damocles appreciated receiving a
Many nonvenomous snakes streptomycin strigil personalized with his
strangulate their prey. n initials.
/ TstreptPSmIsFn /
stratagem Gk stringent
n an antibiotic organic base active adj
/ SstraZDjDm / against many bacteria and used / SstrinjEnt /
Gk especially in the treatment of L
a cleverly contrived trick or scheme infections (as tuberculosis) by marked by rigor, strictness, or
for gaining an end. gram-negative bacteria. severity.
Barb was disappointed that her Streptomycin was the first drug to Stringent regulations have helped
mother saw through her stratagem prove effective against curb environmental pollution.
for staying out past curfew. tuberculosis.
stroganoff
strategist streusel adj
/ SstrOgETnOf /
strathspey streuselkuchen Russ name
n n sliced thin and cooked in a sauce of
/ SstrathTspC / / SstrVsElTkVkEn / meat stock, sour cream, onion, and
Scot geog name G condiments.
a Scottish dance similar to but coffee cake that is baked with a Erica prepared beef stroganoff for
slower than the reel. topping of a crumbly mixture of the mayor’s visit.
The highland fling is one example butter, sugar, and flour and
of a dance in the manner of the sometimes nuts and spices. strongylid
strathspey. Mrs. Messer, our neighbor, always
bakes her family a streuselkuchen strophulus
stratocirrus for the holidays. n
n / SstrBfyElEs /
/ TstraZPSsirEs / stricture Gk
L n a rash in infants popularly
a low dense fairly uniform cloud / SstrikchE(r) / associated with teething distress.
formation. L The pediatrician prescribed an
The meteorologist predicted a an abnormal narrowing of a tubular ointment for our baby’s strophulus.
heavy cover of stratocirrus for the organ : constriction.
weekend. The stricture of Lucy’s throat was
caused by an allergic reaction to a
strength bee sting.
Page 306 of 349

strudel stupendous subaqueous
n adj adj
/ Ss(h)trVdFl / / st(y)VSpendEs / / TsEbSCkwGEs /
G L L
a sheet of paper-thin dough rolled of amazing size or greatness. being or found under water or
up with any of various fillings and The construction of Khufu’s beneath the surface of water.
baked. pyramid was a stupendous Bartley rented a glass-bottomed
The flight attendant served the accomplishment for the ancient boat to get a better look at the
coach passengers a light breakfast Egyptians. subaqueous fauna.
of coffee, juice, and strudel.
sturgeon subbasement
strychnine
n stygian subboreal
/ SstrikTnIn / adj adj
Gk / Sstij(G)En / / sEbSbPrGEl /
a very poisonous bitter crystalline Gk name L
alkaloid obtained from various characteristic of death. very cold : approaching the frigid.
plants. A black robe, a papier-mâché Hope grew up in Florida and finds
Strychnine is a popular poison in sickle, and some grayish makeup it very difficult to live in what she
murder mystery novels. completed Sean’s stygian calls the “subboreal climate” of
Halloween costume. Minnesota.
stubborn
stylebook subfulgent
studious adj
adj styptic / TsEbSfUljEnt /
/ Sst(y)VdGEs / adj L
L / Sstiptik / moderately lustrous.
of, relating to, or concerned with Gk The silver platter in Mary’s antique
the application of the mental tending to arrest bleeding. shop was battered but still had a
faculties to the acquisition of Kenneth had to apply a styptic subfulgent gleam.
knowledge. agent to his chin where he cut
Pam is the most studious pupil in himself while shaving. subfuscous
Mr. Ramsey’s class.
suable subjugate
stultiloquence v
n suasible / SsEbjETgCt /
/ TstElStilEkwEn(t)s / adj L
L+L / SswCsEbEl / bring under the yoke of power or
senseless or silly talk : babble. L dominion.
Myra soon broke her vow never to capable of being induced into some The love of acquisition and
resort to stultiloquence when mental position : easily brought to conquest are powers of destruction
communicating with her baby. belief, certainty, or conviction. when used to subjugate one person
When it comes to trying new foods, to another.
stupefy Ming is the least suasible member
v of her family. submersible
/ Sst(y)VpETfI / adj
L suavity / sEbSmErsEbEl /
blunt or deaden the faculties of L + Ecf
perception and understanding of. subaltern capable of functioning under water.
Bright headlights will often stupefy adj The earliest designs for
a deer and cause it to stand / sESbOltE(r)n / submersible vehicles date to
motionless in the path of an L antiquity.
oncoming vehicle. inferior in status or quality :
subordinate.
Julia is disappointed with her
subaltern role in the school play.
Page 307 of 349

suborn substitute succotash
v n n
/ sESbO(E)rn / / SsEbztETtVt / / SsEkETtash /
L>F L Algonquian
induce (as a person) by a person who takes the place of or a mixture of lima beans or shell
underhanded means to do some acts for another. beans and kernels of corn cooked
improper or unlawful thing. When Donald fouled out of the together.
The sting operation exposed Mr. basketball game, the coach decided Even though Thelma likes both
Underwood’s attempts to suborn to send in a substitute who had corn and lima beans, she isn’t fond
the city treasurer. been warming the bench for weeks. of succotash.
subrident subterfuge succulence

adj n
/ TsESbrIdFnt / / SsEbtE(r)TfyVj / succulent
L L adj
wearing or offered with a smile. deception by trickery or stratagem / SsEkyElEnt /
Eilene’s subrident answer belied to conceal, escape, avoid, or evade. L
the furious feelings she had toward George’s experience in subterfuge full of juice : juicy.
the questioner. is mostly in cryptography. Perry wiped his mouth with his
sleeve after he bit into the succulent
subscriber subterranean peach.
subservient subtleness succumb

adj n v
/ (T)sEbSsErvHEnt / / SsEZFlnDs / / sESkEm /
L L > F > E + Ecf L
subordinate. the quality or state of being delicate yield and cease to resist or contend
In ancient Rome, wives were or elusive. before a superior strength,
legally subservient. The subtleness of the almond overpowering appeal or desire, or
custard eluded Mr. Denson. inexorable force.
subsidiary Joanie found it impossible not to
adj succedent succumb to her drowsiness.
/ (T)sEbSsidGTerG /
L successor succumbence
of secondary importance or
prominence. succinct sudadero
Marge’s role was subsidiary, but adj n
her first-rate performance stole the / sEkSsiN(k)t / / TsVdESde(T)rP /
show. L L > Sp
marked by brief and compact a broad piece (as of leather)
subsistence expression or by lack of attached to a stirrup strap to protect
n unnecessary words and details. a rider’s leg from sweat.
/ sEbSsistEn(t)s / Sandy’s succinct answers do not Before mounting his horse, the
L satisfy those who question him. cowboy checked to see that each
a mode of obtaining the necessities sudadero was properly attached.
of life : livelihood. succorance
Mr. Ellis preaches to his students n suddenness
that a good education goes far to / SsEkE(r)rEn(t)s /
ensure a respectable subsistence. L>F>E sudoriferous
dependence. adj
Harold took measures to reduce his / TsVdESrif(E)rEs /
succorance on nasal decongestants. L
producing or conveying sweat.
Cycling and running are
sudoriferous forms of exercise.
suede
Page 308 of 349

uerte suffrutescent sultanate
n adj n
/ Sswer(T)tC / / TsETfrVStesFnt / / SsEltFnDt /
L > Sp L Ar > F
a skilled movement or pass in a having a base that is somewhat a state or country governed by a
bullfight. woody and does not die down each sultan.
The crowd cheered as the toreador year—used of a plant or stem. Arhat’s ancestors ruled a small
demonstrated a dangerous suerte. Eunice prunes her suffrutescent sultanate on the Arabian
shrubs in the fall. Peninsula.
suffice
v suffumigate sultriness
/ sESfIs / v n
L / sESfyVmETgCt / / SsEltrGnDs /
be enough : meet or satisfy a need. L E
One teaspoonful of salt will suffice apply smoke, vapor, or gas to from the quality or state of being
for the stew. below, as to treat (as a house or oppressively hot and humid.
room) with a gas for the purpose of Marge’s air-conditioned car
sufficiently disinfecting or of destroying pests. provided welcome relief from
adv Clayton joked that his downstairs July’s sultriness.
/ sESfishEntlG / neighbor was trying to suffumigate
L + Ecf him with his incessant grilling on summarily
in a manner marked by quantity, his deck.
scope, power, or quality to meet summary
with the demands, wants, or needs suffuse
of a situation. v sumpter
The number of books printed / sESfyVz / n
sufficiently filled the back orders. L / SsEm(p)tEr /
spread over or through in the L>F>E
sufflaminate manner of fluid or light. a saddlebag.
v The fixtures were intended to Grandpa’s sumpter is embossed
/ sESflamETnCt / suffuse the patio in warm light. with his initials.
L
obstruct, impede. suggestible sumptuous
Because Tim said not having a adj
computer would sufflaminate his suitable / SsEm(p)chEwEs /
progress, his parents relented and L
bought him one. sukiyaki involving large outlay or expense :
n costly, lavish.
suffocate / TsVkGS(y)BkG / Our grandparents treated the
v Jpn whole family to a sumptuous
/ SsEfETkCt / meat, soybean curd, onions, brunch on Saturday.
L bamboo shoots, and other
die from being unable to breathe. vegetables cooked in soy sauce, sundae
It was so hot and stuffy in the sake, and sugar.
classroom that Mark thought he Joyce watched with fascination as superannuated
would suffocate. the Japanese cook prepared adj
sukiyaki right at the table. / TsVpESranyETwCZDd /
suffrage L
n sulkily rated no longer fully or passably
/ SsEfrij / adv efficient in one’s job because of
L>F / SsElkDlG / age : incapacitated or disqualified
the right or power to participate in E? for active duty by advanced age.
electing public officials and in a moodily silent manner. The superannuated file clerk held
adopting or rejecting legislation in When asked to explain why he had little hope of finding a job in the
a representative form of been fighting, Tim looked sulkily near future.
government. down at the floor.
The 19th Amendment to the
Constitution gives women suffrage.
Page 309 of 349

supercilious supersonic suretyship
adj adj n
/ TsVpE(r)SsilGEs / / TsVpE(r)SsBnik / / SshUr(E)ZGTship /
L L L > E + Ecf
arrogantly superior : haughty, moving or capable of moving at the obligation of a person to answer
disdainful. speeds from one to five times the for the debt, default, or failure in
The supercilious senior ignored the speed of sound in air. duty of another.
first-year student. Myrna says that when she grows When Sally’s father co-signed her
up, she wants to fly supersonic first automobile loan, he accepted
superficies aircraft. the suretyship that it represented.
superfluous superstitious surfactant

adj adj n
/ sVSpErflEwEs / / TsVpE(r)SstishEs / / TsErSfaktEnt /
L L>F>E L
exceeding what is sufficient, having or based on a belief, a substance useful for its cleansing,
necessary, normal, or desirable. conception, act, or practice wetting, dispersing, or similar
Alex’s teacher told him to eliminate resulting from ignorance, powers.
superfluous words from his essay. unreasoning fear of the unknown, The surfactant in a detergent
or a false conception of causation. lowers the water’s surface tension,
superintendent The bridge became more than ever enabling faster wetting of the fabric
n an object of superstitious awe. being washed.
/ TsVp(E)rDnStendEnt /
L supination surfeit
one who has the oversight and n n
charge of a place, institution, / TsVpESnCshEn / / SsErfDt /
department, organization, or L L>F>E
operation with the power of a rotation of the hand and radius an overabundant supply, yield, or
direction. around the ulna so that the palm is amount of something : excess.
Frustrated residents petitioned the turned up. The reviewer commented that the
superintendent to improve the Supination aggravated Henri’s novel was burdened with a surfeit
building’s electrical service. tennis elbow. of details.
supernatural supine surgeon

adj adj
/ TsVpE(r)Snach(E)rEl / / sESpIn / surly
L L adj
attributable to or liable to be lying on the back or with the face / SsErlG /
attributed to the action or presence upward. E
of a ghost, spirit, or other invisible Greg’s dog stayed supine while ill-natured, abrupt, and rude :
agent. getting her belly rubbed. churlishly cross.
The book was filled with tales of Marie complained to the manager
supernatural occurrences. suppedaneum about the surly, uncooperative
clerk.
supernumerary supplicate
n v surplus
/ TsVpE(r)Sn(y)VmETrerG / / SsEplETkCt /
L L surrealism
an actor employed to play a walk- ask earnestly and humbly of. n
on (as in a mob scene or spectacle). The defendant’s only hope was to / sESrGETlizEm /
The casting director wanted a supplicate the court for mercy. F
supernumerary to play one of the the principles, ideals, or practice of
bank’s customers. surcease producing fantastic or incongruous
imagery in art or literature by
means of unnatural juxtapositions
and combinations.
David Lynch is a modern master of
cinematic surrealism.
Page 310 of 349

surreptitious susceptible suzerain
adj adj n
/ TsErDpStishEs / / sESseptEbEl / / SsVzErDn /
L L F
done, made, or acquired in secret or easily influenced or affected a superior lord to whom allegiance
by stealth. through some trait. is due : a feudal lord.
Denise was embarrassed when her People who smoke are very The suzerain gave the vassal the
surreptitious note to Steve was susceptible to chronic bronchitis use of his land and agreed to
intercepted by the teacher. and emphysema. protect him when necessary.
surrey suspicion suzerainty

n
surrogate / sESspishEn / Svengali
n L n
/ SsErETgCt / mistrust, doubt. / sfenSgBlG /
L President Kennedy called for Brit literary name
something that replaces or cooperation with our adversaries to one who attempts usually with evil
substitutes for another. “push back the jungle of intentions to persuade or force
In formulating new laws, the suspicion” and allow the another to do his bidding.
legislature acts as a surrogate for preservation of peace. Many fans thought that the rock
the entire population. star’s wife was a Svengali who
suspirious engineered the group’s breakup.
surtout
n sustain swallow
/ TsErStV /
L>F+L>F sustenance sweltering
a man’s fitted coat or overcoat; n adj
especially : frock coat. / SsEstEnEn(t)s / / SsweltEriN /
Gerald rented a surtout to complete L>F E
his Abraham Lincoln costume for something that gives support, oppressively hot : causing or
the party. endurance, or strength. marked by excessive sweating or
Tyrone drew sustenance from the faintness.
surveillance letters his girlfriend wrote him Despite the sweltering heat,
n while he was overseas. thousands of people lined the
/ sE(r)SvClEn(t)s / streets to watch the Fourth of July
L>F susurrant parade.
close watch kept over one or more
persons (as to detect movements or susurration swill
activities). n
The suspects in the bombing / TsVsESrCshEn / swindleable
investigation were kept under L adj
police surveillance. a whispering sound : murmur. / Sswind(F)lEbEl /
A mild susurration could be heard G + Ecf
surviving in the study hall despite the capable of being deprived of
adj teacher’s “no talking” mandate. money or property by fraud or
/ sE(r)SvIviN / deceit.
L>F suture The circus owner maintained that
remaining alive or in existence. v the majority of people are gullible
Uncle Leonard is the oldest / SsVchE(r) / and swindleable.
surviving graduate of Milburn L&F
College. unite the parts of by using a strand swineherd
or fiber. n
The doctor estimated that it would / SswInThErd /
take about 45 minutes to suture the E
gash in Tim’s leg. a person who looks after hogs.
Ian loathed his job as a swineherd.
Page 311 of 349

swivel syllogism symphony
v n n
/ SswivEl / / SsilETjizEm / / Ssim(p)fEnG /
E Gk Gk + Gk
turn or pivot freely. a brief form of argument that an elaborate instrumental
Frank chose an office chair that consists of two statements and a composition usually in sonata form
could swivel and tilt. conclusion that must be true if for full orchestra.
these two statements are true. The concert program featured a
sybaritic The following argument is a symphony by Gustav Mahler.
adj syllogism: All lawbreakers deserve
/ TsibESriZik / punishment. This person is a symposiarch
Gk geog name lawbreaker. Therefore, this person
marked by or given to luxury or deserves punishment. synchroneity
voluptuous living. n
The duke’s sybaritic bathroom had syllogize / TsiNkrEnSnGEZG /
marble sinks with gold fixtures, v Gk + Ecf
floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and a / SsilETjIz / the state of happening, existing, or
whirlpool bath. GK > L > E arising at the same time.
deduce something by analysis of a The fireworks display was a
sybaritically formal argument that consists of a spectacle of synchroneity.
adv major premise, a minor premise,
/ TsibESriZDk(E)lG / and a conclusion. syncopation
Gk > L > E To teach logical thinking, Mr. n
in a luxurious or voluptuous Canby had the class syllogize the / TsiNkESpCshEn /
manner. philosopher’s argument. Gk > L
Dana reclined sybaritically on the a temporary displacement or
velvet sofa. sylph shifting of the regular metrical
n accent in a musical composition.
sycamine / Ssilf / Syncopation is typical of much
unknown > L Eastern European folk dance
sychnocarpous a slender woman or girl of light and music.
adj graceful carriage.
/ TsiknESkBrpEs / One sylph after another joined the syncope
Gk + Gk > L > E growing circle of ballerinas on the n
able to produce fruit repeatedly. stage. / SsiNkE(T)pG /
The apple and pear are Gk
sychnocarpous trees. symballophone a partial or complete temporary
suspension of respiration and
sycophant symbiosis circulation : faint, swoon.
n Unexplained dizziness and syncope
syllable / TsimbGSPsDs / occasionally occur on arrival at
Gk + Gk high altitude.
syllabus the intimate living together of two
n dissimilar organisms in any of syndicate
/ SsilETbEs / various mutually beneficial n
Gk > L relationships. / SsindDkDt /
a compendium or summary outline Some insects depend on symbiosis L
of a discourse, course of study, or with bacteria to supplement a loose association of racketeers in
examination requirements. otherwise nutrient-poor diets. control of organized crime.
After reading the syllabus for the The police have spent years trying
seminar, Brad realized he had symbol to get evidence to convict the head
made a terrible mistake by of the local crime syndicate.
enrolling. symmetry
symminct
sympathy
Page 312 of 349

synecdoche syringe tachometer
n n n
/ sDSnekdE(T)kG / / sDSrinj / / taSkBmEZE(r) /
Gk Gk > L > E Gk
a figure of speech by which a part a device used to inject fluids into or a device for indicating the speed of
is put for the whole or vice versa. withdraw them from the body or its rotation.
Fifty sail is a synecdoche for fifty cavities. By watching the tachometer, Mr.
ships. Cameron let the toddler use an old Henderson was able to keep the
ear syringe as a bathtub toy. engine running above 3000 rpm.
synod
n syzygy tachygraphy
/ SsinEd / n n
Gk > L > E / SsizEjG / / taSkigrEfG /
an ecclesiastical council : a formal Gk Gk > F
meeting to consult and decide on the nearly straight-line the art or practice of rapid writing.
church matters. configuration of three celestial Professor Jespersen lectures so
Karl is an active participant in the bodies in a gravitational system. quickly that students who practice
regional Presbyterian synod. Tides are highest when the Sun, tachygraphy have an advantage.
Moon, and Earth are in syzygy.
synopsis taciturn
n tabby adj
/ sDSnBpsDs / / StasETtErn /
Gk tabernacle L>F
a brief orderly outline affording a n habitually silent : temperamentally
general view. / StabE(r)TnakEl / disinclined or reluctant to talk or
Marvin read a plot synopsis before L>F>E converse.
he saw Macbeth. a meetinghouse with a large Mrs. Gibbons found it challenging
assembly hall. to draw the taciturn boy into class
synoptophore The town meeting will be held at discussions.
n the tabernacle.
/ sDSnBptETfP(E)r / taciturnity
Gk tabetisol n
an instrument for diagnosing n / TtasEStErnEZG /
imbalance of eye muscles. / tESbeZETsOl / L
The ophthalmologist prescribed eye L + Ecf the quality or state of being
exercises to correct the muscular unfrozen ground above, within, or disinclined or reluctant to talk or
imbalance detected by the below the permanently frozen converse.
synoptophore. ground. Gene and Leo’s taciturnity about
Arctic wildflowers are able to the cause of the scuffle resulted in a
syntax survive in areas of tabetisol. trip to the principal’s office.
synthesis tableau tackline

n n
/ Ssin(t)thEsDs / / StaTblP / tactful
Gk F
composition or combination of [Note: Plural form can be tactician
parts or elements so as to form a pronounced similarly.] a static
whole. depiction usually presented on a tadpole
Language arts is a synthesis of stage with participants in
reading, writing, speaking, and appropriate costume. tagraggery
listening skills. The final scene is a tableau in
which the family is gathered at the
gravesite.
tabloidism
tabulable
Page 313 of 349

taiga Talmudic tantalize
n adj v
/ StIgE / / talSm(y)Vdik / / StantFlTIz /
Turkish > Russ Heb Gk name
[has near homonym: tiger] of, relating to, or characteristic of tease or torment by presenting
swampy coniferous forest of the authoritative body of Jewish something to the view and exciting
Siberia beginning where the tundra law and custom developed on the desire but continually frustrating
ends. basis of the scriptural law. the expectations by keeping it out
Olga’s great-grandfather was born The novel was full of Talmudic of reach.
in a cabin on the edge of the taiga lore. Philip used a rod and reel to
and grew up playing among spruce tantalize the kitten with a toy mouse
and fir trees. taloned tied to the fishing line.
tailgate tamale tantamount

n adj
takkanah / tESmBlG / / StantETmaUnt /
Nahuatl > Sp L > F > AF > E
talcum ground meat seasoned with chili or equivalent in value, significance, or
other filling, rolled up in cornmeal effect.
talebearer dough, wrapped in corn husks, and Because of inflation, Jamie’s
steamed. meager raise was tantamount to a
talipes Rosita ordered a tamale, two tacos, pay reduction.
n and a burrito from the street
/ StalETpGz / vendor. tantivy
L adv
a congenital deformity of the foot tamarack / tanStivG /
in which the forepart is twisted into unknown
one of several directions : clubfoot. tambourine in a headlong dash.
Gordon’s talipes was so severe that Patsy ran tantivy toward second
surgery was needed to adjust the tamburello base after the bunt.
tendons and bones of his foot.
tandem tapestry
talisman n
n tangerine / StapDstrG /
/ StalDsmEn / n Gk > F > E + Ecf
Gk > Ar > It > Sp > F / TtanjESrGn / a heavy handwoven textile for
an object thought to act as a charm Moroccan geog name hangings, curtains, and upholstery.
to avert evil and bring good a variable color ranging from Teresa admired the vivid colors of
fortune. moderate reddish orange to vivid or the tapestry hanging in the
Vern showed us his rabbit’s foot, strong orange. corridor.
which he claimed was an effective To Petra, the most beautiful color
talisman. of mum is tangerine. taphephobia
n
talkathon tangible / TtafGSfPbGE /
adj Gk
tallow / StanjEbEl / fear of being buried alive.
n L After reading Edgar Allan Poe’s
/ Sta(T)lP / capable of being touched. “The Cask of Amontillado,” Mr.
E The black darkness of the night Gallo developed a bad case of
the rendered fat of cattle and sheep seemed to have a tangible quality. taphephobia.
that is used chiefly in making soap,
glycerol, margarine, candles, and tangy
lubricants. adj
Inside of her little tent, the fortune / StaNG /
teller began to shuffle her cards by Scand > E + Ecf
the light of a candle made from having a particularly pungent odor.
tallow. The burning pile of old tires will
leave the air tangy for several days.
tallowy
Page 314 of 349

tapir tarpaulin tattersall
n n n
/ StCpE(r) / / tBrSpOlDn / / StaZE(r)TsOl /
Tupi E+E E name
[has homonym: taper] any of a a piece of material (as durable a fabric having a pattern of colored
genus of chiefly nocturnal hoofed plastic) used for protecting exposed lines forming squares of solid
mammals of tropical America and objects or areas. background.
Myanmar to Sumatra that have the When rain began during the second Jeanne bought a blue-and-white
snout and upper lip prolonged into inning of the baseball game, the tattersall to make into a skirt.
a short flexible proboscis. ground crew rolled out the
The tapir is both a browser and a tarpaulin to protect the field. tattletale
grazer, feeding on leaves, twigs, n
and fruits, as well as on grasses. tarragon / StaZFlTtCl /
n D+E
tarantula / StarETgBn / one that blabs or tells secrets.
n Ar > L > F Erica’s official title is “social
/ tESranch(E)lE / a small European perennial reporter,” but Will considers her a
It geog name wormwood grown for its aromatic plain old tattletale.
any of a family of large hairy foliage that is used in cooking.
spiders that are capable of biting Paul planted tarragon in his herb taught
but are not significantly poisonous garden.
to humans. taunt
Alexander’s friend tried in vain to tartar v
convince him to get a pet tarantula. n / StOnt /
/ StBrZEr / F? > E
tardigrade L reproach in a mocking or insulting
adj [has homonym and near manner : jeer at.
/ StBrdETgrCd / homonyms: tarter and tartare, Spectators on the sidewalk began
L Tatar] an incrustation on the teeth to taunt the suspect as he exited the
moving or stepping slowly. consisting of salivary secretion, van.
The sloth is a well-known food residue, and various salts.
tardigrade animal. The hygienist carefully removed the tauntingly
tartar from Rekha’s teeth.
tariff taupe
n tassel n
/ StarDf / / StPp /
Ar > It tatami L>F
the duty or rate of duty imposed by n [has homonym: tope] a light
a government on imported or / tEStBmG / brownish gray.
exported goods. Jpn It took some time, but Pam finally
A high tariff protects the home a straw matting used as a floor matched the taupe of her dress to a
industries from foreign covering in a Japanese home. pair of shoes.
competition. The Japanese restaurant had a
special room in which patrons tauromachy
tarmac could sit on a tatami while dining. n
n / tOSrBmEkG /
/ StBrTmak / tatterdemalion Gk + Gk
(E + Brit name) > trademark adj the art or practice of bullfighting.
a road, apron, or runway made of / TtaZE(r)dDSmClyEn / The toreador is well known for his
asphalt. Scand > E + unknown slow, dignified style of tauromachy.
Neil’s suitcase fell out of the ragged or disreputable in dress or
airplane and its contents spilled out appearance. taut
onto the tarmac. No one would have guessed that the
tatterdemalion fellow is a
millionaire.
Page 315 of 349

tautology telegnosis temperate
n n adj
/ tOStBlEjG / / TtelESnPsDs / / Stemp(E)rDt /
Gk Gk + Gk L>E
an instance of needless or knowledge of distant happenings having a moderate climate.
meaningless repetition in close obtained by occult or unknown All of the United States, except for
succession of an idea, statement, or means : clairvoyance. Hawaii and parts of Alaska and
word. The psychic claimed to have Florida, lies within the temperate
The phrase a beginner who has just telegnosis of events happening on zone.
started is a tautology. the other side of the Atlantic.
tempest
tautophony telephone
n n tempestuous
/ tOStBfEnG / / StelETfPn / adj
Gk Gk + Gk / temSpes(h)chEwEs /
repetition of the same sound. a device for reproducing sounds, L
The insistent tautophony of Josh’s especially articulate speech, at a of, involving, or resembling a
alarm clock finally woke him up. distance. furious storm.
Ginger’s parents asked her to limit The tempestuous action of wind
tawdrily her time on the telephone to three and waves imperiled the ships.
adv 15-minute conversations per night.
/ StOdrDlG / tempura
name > E telesis n
in a cheap and gaudy manner. n / TtempESrB /
The tawdrily dressed actress signed / StelEsDs / Jpn
autographs outside her hotel. Gk [has near homonym: tempera]
progress intelligently planned and fritters of seafood and vegetables
tawdry directed. fried in deep fat.
The mayor revealed the city The waiter brought a small dish of
taxation council’s ten-year plan for telesis vegetable tempura as an appetizer.
at the press conference.
tazza tenacious
telltale adj
technetronic / tDSnCshEs /
temerarious L>E
technical adj holding fast or tending to hold fast.
/ TtemESra(a)rGEs / Marjorie is tenacious in her belief
tedious L that her cousin was abducted by
rashly or presumptuously daring : aliens and replaced by an impostor.
tektite reckless.
Mrs. Jasper punished Tim for his tenacity
telamon temerarious behavior by n
n withholding certain privileges. / tDSnasEZG /
/ StelETmBn / L
Gk > L temerity the quality or state of holding fast :
a male figure used as a supporting n determination, firmness,
column or pilaster. / tESmerEZG / persistence.
While in Athens, Anita had her L Randy’s tenacity often made him
picture taken beside a telamon. unreasonable or foolhardy seem stubborn.
contempt of danger or opposition.
telecine The private with the temerity to
speak up against the sergeant’s
bullying was assigned to KP
indefinitely.
temperament
Page 316 of 349

tenaculum tenebrosity tension
n n
/ tDSnakyElEm / / TtenESbrBsEZG / tentacle
L L n
a slender sharp-pointed hook darkness. / StentDkEl /
attached to a handle and used Nocturnal animals moved silently L
mainly in surgery for seizing and through the tenebrosity of the one of the arms of a cephalopod.
holding parts (as arteries). forest. In the horror movie the giant
Connie slipped the tenaculum octopus tried to grab the heroine
under the patient’s carotid artery. tenement with a long tentacle.
tendency tenet tentative

n n
/ StendEnsG / / StenDt / tentatively
L L adv
a proneness to or readiness for a [has near homonym: tenant] a / StentEZDvlG /
particular kind of thought or action. principle, dogma, belief, or L
Tom’s tendency to say exactly what doctrine generally held to be true; in a hesitant or uncertain manner.
he feels has gotten him into trouble especially : one held in common by Janna smiled tentatively, not
several times. members of a group or profession. knowing if she should show her
The basic tenet of Central High’s happiness.
tenderloin Key Club is that community service
benefits everyone. tenuous
tendon adj
n tennis / StenyEwEs /
/ StendEn / n L
L / StenDs / having little substance or strength :
a tough cord of specialized fibrous L > AF > E flimsy, weak.
connective tissue that unites a [has homonym: tenace] a typically The prosecutor’s case was so
muscle with some other part and outdoor game that is played with tenuous that the judge dismissed
transmits the force which the rackets and a light elastic ball by the charge against the defendant.
muscle exerts. two players or pairs of players on a
The team doctor said that Larry’s level court divided by a low net. tepid
Achilles tendon was inflamed and Jeannine is so eager to learn to adj
that he shouldn’t run in Saturday’s play tennis that she is willing to / StepDd /
race. pay for lessons out of her L
allowance. marked by an absence of
tendresse enthusiasm or conviction.
n tenon The debate drew a tepid response
/ tBMdres / n from the audience.
F / StenEn /
tender feeling : fondness. L>F>E teratism
Sarah portrayed the sister who, in a projecting member in a piece of n
maidenly fashion, conceals her wood or other material for insertion / SterETtizEm /
tendresse for the hero. into a mortise to make a joint. Gk + Ecf
Curtis used his jigsaw to cut a fascination with monsters.
tenebrific tenon on each board of the box he Monster movies appeal to the
adj was making. teratism of the viewing public.
/ TtenESbrifik /
L + Ecf + L > Ecf tensible teratogenic
causing gloom or darkness. adj adj
Tenebrific rain clouds / Sten(t)sEbEl / / TterEtPSjenik /
overshadowed the entire region. L Gk
capable of being extended. tending to cause developmental
The old rubber band was not very malformations.
tensible. Sylvia carefully avoided any
potentially teratogenic drugs
tensile during her pregnancy.
Page 317 of 349

teratological tergiversation terrarium
adj n n
/ TterEtESlBjDkEl / / TtErjD(T)vErSsCshEn / / tESrerGEm /
Gk L L
relating to abnormality of organic evasion of straightforward action or a fully enclosed wholly or
growth or structure. clear-cut statement of position. predominantly glass container for
Because of his several deformities, The ambassador explained that in the indoor cultivation of moisture-
the so-called “elephant man” was diplomacy there is sometimes loving plants.
the subject of teratological study. defensible tergiversation in Mosses and other small woodland
communication. plants thrive in a terrarium.
teratology
n termagancy terrazzo
/ TterEStBlEjG / n n
Gk / StErmEgEnsG / / tESrBt(T)sP /
the study of malformations, E name OProv > It
monstrosities, or serious deviations habitual bad temper : scolding a mosaic flooring made by
from the normal type in growing disposition. embedding small pieces of marble
organisms. Lillian’s abusive termagancy or granite in freshly placed mortar
Because of his several deformities, alienated her husband and and after hardening grinding and
the so-called “elephant man” is children. polishing the surface.
often featured in textbooks for The contractor explained that if
courses in teratology. termitarium Travis wanted a hard, shiny floor
at a reasonable price, terrazzo was
tercentenary terrace an excellent option.
n n
/ TtErsenStenErG / / SterDs / terrestrial
L L > OProv > F
a 300th anniversary or its a colonnaded porch or promenade. terrible
celebration. The marketplace consisted of a row adj
Next year Possumville will of shops along a terrace. / SterEbEl /
celebrate the tercentenary of its L>F>E
founding. terraceous requiring extreme effort or
adj fortitude.
terdiurnal / TteSrCshEs / Donating blood may be a terrible
adj L ordeal for those people who do not
/ TtErdISErnFl / made of earth : earthen. like needles.
L Bulldozers hurriedly built up a
occurring three times per day. terraceous dam to prevent further terricolous
The meteorologist set his flooding. adj
instrument to take terdiurnal / teSrikElEs /
measurements of the air pressure. terrapin L+L
n living on or in or growing from the
tergiversate / SterEpDn / land.
v Algonquian The heath was rich in terricolous
/ StErjDvErTsCt / any of various North American lichens.
L turtles living in fresh or brackish
evade straightforward action or water. terrific
clearcut statement of position. Murray awoke from his lakeside adj
While political leaders tergiversate, nap to find a terrapin sunning on / tESrifik /
petty tyrants are taking over the the blanket. L
country. of an extraordinary nature :
terraqueous astounding, tremendous.
adj Terrific, serrated outcrops of bare
/ terSCkwGEs / rock stood on either side of the lush
L valley.
consisting of land and water.
Global pollution threatens Earth’s
terraqueous environment.
Page 318 of 349

terrigenous tetracycline theodicy
adj n
/ tESrijEnEs / textuary / thGSBdEsG /
L Gk > F
formed by the erosive action of thalassic an area of philosophy that treats of
rivers, tides, and currents—used of adj the nature and government of God
an ocean bottom. / thESlasik / and the destiny of the soul.
At the brink of the continental shelf, Gk One hotly contested question in
terrigenous deposits build up and of or relating to the sea or ocean. theodicy is whether the existence of
are swept away. Some thalassic currents travel for evil precludes the existence of an
thousands of miles. omnipotent and perfect God.
tertiary
thanatophobia theodolite
tessitura n n
n / TthanEtESfPbGE / / thGSBdFlTIt /
/ TtesEStUrE / Gk Ar? > L > E
L > It fear of death. a surveyor’s instrument for
the general range of a melody or Michael had such a strong belief in measuring horizontal and vertical
voice part; specifically : the part of an afterlife that he was not troubled angles.
the register in which most of the by thanatophobia. The theodolite invented by Digges
tones of a melody or voice part lie. in the 16th century consisted of a
Soprano parts in Bellini’s operas thaumatology horizontal graduated circular plate
call for a very high tessitura. n with an index bearing sights.
/ TthOmEStBlEjG /
testaceous Gk theosophize
adj doctrine, discussion, or study of the
/ teSstCshEs / performing of miracles. therapeutant
L Although he had never successfully n
having a shell. performed any miracles, the young / TtherESpyVtFnt /
The oyster is a testaceous marine priest was nonetheless an expert in Gk > E
animal. thaumatology. a healing or curative agent or
medicine.
testimony thaumaturgy The diseased elm trees were
n n sprayed with a chemical
/ StestETmPnG / / SthOmETtErjG / therapeutant.
L Gk > L > F
a solemn declaration usually made the performance of miracles. therapeutic
orally by a witness under oath in The sacred writings of many adj
response to interrogation by a religions contain stories of / TtherESpyVZik /
lawyer or authorized public thaumaturgy. Gk
official. of or relating to the treatment of
According to Victoria’s testimony, theatrical disease or disorders by remedial
she had just returned from vacation adj agents or methods.
when she discovered that the statue / thGSatrDkEl / Changes in diet can have a
was missing. Gk therapeutic effect on obesity,
marked by extravagant display or hypertension, peptic ulcer, and
tetanus exhibitionism : showy, spectacular. osteoporosis.
n The performer took a theatrical
/ StetFnEs / bow, but the audience’s applause therblig
Gk was lukewarm. n
an acute infectious disease / SthEr(T)blig /
characterized by tonic spasm of theftproof anagram of Amer name
voluntary muscles and especially of one of the manual, visual, or mental
the jaw muscles. theocracy elements into which an industrial
Puncture wounds are dangerous manual operation may be analyzed
because they allow the bacteria in time and motion study.
that cause tetanus to enter the The supervisor’s goal was to
body. eliminate one therblig at each
station in the assembly line.
Page 319 of 349

theretofore thesmothete thorax
adv n n
/ SLerZETfP(E)r / / SthezmETthGt / / SthPrTaks /
E Gk Gk > L > E
up to that time : until then. lawgiver, legislator. the portion of an insect body that is
The public parks committee created Joseph has in his office a marble the middle of the three chief
a playground where theretofore bust of a famous Athenian divisions.
there had been a weedy vacant lot. thesmothete. The thorax of an insect consists of
three segments, each having a pair
therianthropic thespian of legs.
adj n
/ TthirGTanSthrBpik / / SthespGEn / thoroughbred
Gk + Gk Gk name n
combining human and animal form. an actor. / SthErETbred /
The falcon-headed Horus was a Fiona became stagestruck at an E
therianthropic god of ancient early age and was determined to purebred or pedigreed animal.
Egypt. become a thespian. Alex’s thoroughbred comes from a
line of Kentucky Derby winners.
thermometer thirsty
n thoroughfare
/ thE(r)SmBmEZEr / thistle
Gk + Gk n threaten
an instrument for determining / SthisEl /
temperature. E threnody
The thermometer that takes a a plant with prickly leaves having a n
temperature reading from one’s ear head with white, purple, pink, or / SthrenEdG /
is now used widely. yellow flowers. Gk
Dean plucked a thistle from the a song, poem, composition, or
thermostat lawn of the middle school. speech of lamentation especially
n for someone dead or something
/ SthErmETstat / tholepin regarded as dead.
Gk + Gk Asked to write a threnody for
an automatic device for regulating thoracic English class, Libby composed a
temperature (as by controlling the adj song about the death of a robin.
supply of gas or electricity to a / JESrasik /
heating apparatus). Gk threshold
The repair person found that our of, relating to, located within, or n
heating problem was caused by a involving the part of the body of / SthreshT(h)Pld /
defective thermostat. humans and other mammals located E
between the neck and the abdomen. place or point of entering or
thesaurus The thoracic nerve controls the beginning : entrance, outset.
n muscles in the walls of the thorax. Now at the threshold of adulthood,
/ thDSsOrEs / James wonders if he will miss the
Gk > L thoracodynia carefree days of his previous years.
a book containing a store of words n
or of information about a particular / TthPrEkESdinGE / thrombosis
field or set of concepts; specifically Gk n
: a dictionary of synonyms. pain in the chest. / thrBmSbPsDs /
Caleb’s paper read as if he had When Grandpa complained of Gk
consulted a thesaurus frequently thoracodynia, Dolly immediately the formation or presence of a
while writing it. took him to the hospital. blood clot within a blood vessel.
The severe pain in Greg’s leg was
found to have been caused by a
thrombosis in one of the veins.
Page 320 of 349

throstle tibia tilapia
n n n
/ SthrBsEl / / StibGE / / tDSlCpGE /
E L L
a largely olive-brown Old World the fourth joint counting from the any of a genus of African
perching bird noted for its song. base of the leg of an insect that lies freshwater food fishes that
While on a walking tour in London, between the femur and tarsus. resemble the American sunfishes.
Madeline spotted a throstle in a A cricket’s ear is located on the Some American fish farms have
sycamore tree. tibia of its foreleg. been raising tilapia for stocking in
ponds and lakes.
thule tichorrhine
n tilde
thumb / StIkETrIn / n
Gk > L / StildE /
thurible an extinct two-horned woolly L > Sp
n rhinoceros. a mark ~ placed especially over the
/ Sth(y)UrEbEl / The remains of a tichorrhine were letter n to denote the /ny/ sound or
Gk > L > F > E found frozen in the ice of Siberia over vowels to indicate nasality.
a vessel used in religious services with the flesh and hair well Marcia could not find the tilde on
for burning incense. preserved. the computer keyboard.
When a thurible is used in the
procession, the odor of incense tickicidal tilth
suffuses the church. adj
/ TtikESsIdFl / timorous
thylacine E + L + Ecf
n destroying or controlling any of timorously
/ SthIlETsIn / several wingless parasitic insects. adv
Gk > L The exterminator used a tickicidal / Stim(E)rEslG /
a now-extinct somewhat doglike agent to eliminate the pests. L
carnivorous marsupial that in a manner showing fear or
formerly inhabited Tasmania— tickled apprehension.
called also “Tasmanian wolf.” v Pam timorously responded to her
The female thylacine had a / StikEld / name and said that she had not
rearward-opening pouch in which E finished her book report.
two to four young were carried. excited or stirred up agreeably.
The young actor was tickled to be tinctorial
thyme offered the leading role in his next
n movie. tincture
/ StIm / n
Gk tightrope / StiN(k)chE(r) /
[has homonym: time] a common L
garden herb used in seasoning and tilak hue, tint.
formerly in medicine. n The main difference between
The chicken recipe called for a / StilEk / American and Irish glass is in
teaspoon of dried thyme. Skt tincture.
an ornamental spot worn on the
thymiaterion forehead chiefly by Hindus as a tinnient
n sectarian mark. adj
/ TthImGEStirGEn / After three months of travel Lana / StinGEnt /
Gk returned home clad in a sari and L
a vessel used by the ancient Greeks wearing a tilak. having a clear or ringing quality.
for burning incense. Grandmother’s old silver knives
Cecil found a bronze thymiaterion made a tinnient sound in the sink as
in an antique shop. we rinsed them after Thanksgiving
dinner.
Page 321 of 349

tinnitus tobacco toggery
n n
/ tDSnIZEs / / tESba(T)kP / tome
L Taino > Sp n
a ringing, roaring, or hissing in the the leaves of a plant of the genus / StPm /
ears that is purely subjective. Nicotiana prepared and processed Gk
It’s hard to understand how for use in smoking or chewing or as a volume forming part of a larger
annoying tinnitus is unless you snuff. work.
have experienced it yourself. At an early age, Amy vowed never Fiona bought an old copy of The
to use tobacco. Messages of the Presidents that
tinselry was missing the first tome.
toboggan
tintinnabulation n tongue
/ tESbBgEn /
tirade Algonquian tonitruous
n a long flat-bottomed light sled adj
/ StIrCd / made of thin boards curved up at / tESnitrEwEs /
F one end with usually low handrails L + Ecf
a protracted speech usually marked at the sides and used for coasting thundering, fulminating.
by abusive language. on snow or ice. The tonitruous artillery guns had
The grumpy woman screamed a Bart’s new toboggan is the fastest been shelling the enemy positions
tirade of protest whenever children one on the hill. for several hours.
made joyful noises outside her
window. tobogganer tonsillectomy
n
tiralee / tESbBgEnEr / tonsillitis
n Algonquian > F n
/ TtirESlG / one that coasts on a long flat- / TtBn(t)sESlIZDs /
imit bottomed light sled. L
[has homonym: tearily] a On hitting the unexpected bump, inflammation of the tonsils.
succession of musical notes (as in a the tobogganer was thrown off his Dr. Graham treated Erica’s
bugle call). sled. tonsillitis with antibiotics.
Daniel managed a tiralee on the
saxophone, but there was no tobogganing tonsillotome
recognizable melody.
toccata tonsorial
titian n
n / tESkBZE / tonsure
/ StishEn / It n
Ital name a brilliant musical composition / StBnchE(r) /
one having hair that is brownish usually for pipe organ or L>E
orange. harpischord, in free fantasia style, the shaven crown or patch worn by
Mr. Rodman decided that he would and usually with many equal-timed monks or various clerics.
be a titian for awhile. notes in rapid movement. The actor who played Brother
Jamila sat down at the church Cadfael had a hairpiece to cover
tmesis organ and played a fast Bach his tonsure when he was off
toccata. camera.
toastmaster
n tocsin
/ StPstTmastE(r) / n
E+L > F > E / StBksDn /
one that presides (as at a banquet) L > OProv > F
and introduces the after-dinner [has homonym: toxin] an alarm
speakers. bell or the ringing of a bell for the
Eric will serve as toastmaster at the purpose of alarm.
Golden Lamp banquet. In the event of a natural disaster or
a civil alert, the fire stations would
set off a tocsin that could be heard
for two miles in any direction.
Page 322 of 349

tontine toreador tortoni
n n n
/ StBnTtGn / / StOrGETdO(E)r / / tO(r)StPnG /
It name > F L > Sp It name
a financial arrangement whereby bullfighter. an ice cream made of heavy cream,
the participants share benefits The toreador posed for the crowd minced almonds, chopped
equally on such terms that when in his suit of lights. maraschino cherries, or other
one dies or defaults the others flavorings.
equally share the portion until all toroidal Tortoni is definitely not the dessert
but one remains to own the adj for someone on a low-fat, low-
entirety. / tPrSOidFl / calorie diet.
In the days before a central bank or L
common currency, villagers often doughnut-shaped. totality
used a tontine to share ownership For the life of her, Bridget couldn’t n
of property. identify the toroidal object she / tPStalEZG /
found in her purse. L
toolach the phase of an eclipse during
torpor which it is total : state of total
toothache eclipse.
n torrential An eerie silence crept over the
/ StVthTCk / crowd as the eclipse reached
E torrentially totality.
pain in one of the teeth. adv
Nelson thought an abscess might be / tOSrenchElG / totemism
the cause of his toothache. L n
in a manner resembling a rushing / StPZETmizEm /
topaz stream of water. Ojibwa + Ecf
n Patricia wept torrentially when she belief in kinship with or a mystical
/ StPTpaz / found out about her pet dog’s relationship between a group or
Gk > L > F > E injury. individual and an emblematic plant,
a usually yellow, reddish, or pink animal, or other object.
transparent mineral used as a gem. tortellini Powerful animals are common
Leslie received a yellow topaz for n objects of totemism.
her birthday. / TtO(r)ZFlSGnG /
L > It toucan
topiary noodle dough cut in rounds, filled
n with savory fillings, and boiled. tourelle
/ StPpGTerG / Vic’s favorite Italian meal was
Gk > L + Lcf tortellini stuffed with meat and touristry
the practice or art of training, cheese.
cutting, and trimming trees or tournedos
shrubs into odd or ornamental tortilla n
shapes. n / TtUrnESdP /
Edward Scissorhands was skilled in / tO(r)StG(y)E / L>F
topiary. Sp a small fillet of beef usually cut
a round thin unleavened cake from the tip of the tenderloin.
topography usually eaten hot with a savory Diane usually prepares a tournedos
n topping or filling. in wine sauce with mushrooms.
/ tESpBgrEfG / Theron covered his tortilla with
Gk beans and cheese. towhee
the art or practice of graphic
delineation in detail usually on tortoise
maps or charts of selected natural n
and man-made features of a region / StOrZEs /
especially in a way to show their F? > E
relative positions and elevations. any of a family of terrestrial turtles.
Identifying the enemy’s rocket sites The park ranger told the children
will require an expert in that a tortoise takes five hours to
topography. walk just one mile.
Page 323 of 349

toxicosis trafficking transducer
n v n
/ TtBksESkPsDs / / StrafikiN / / tran(t)sSd(y)VsE(r) /
Gk It > F L + Ecf
a pathological condition caused by engaging in commercial activity. a device actuated by power from
the action of a poison or toxin. The townspeople were shocked one system and supplying power in
The chihuahua exhibited no when they learned that Mr. Bailey the same or any other form to a
symptoms of toxicosis after eating had been trafficking in drugs. second system.
the soap. A common transducer is a
tragedian microphone, which converts sound
toxophilite waves into electrical signals.
n tragedienne
/ tBkSsBfETlIt / n transference
Gk + Gk + Ecf / trETjGdGSen / n
one fond of or expert at archery. F / tranzSfErEn(t)s /
The legendary toxophilite William [Note: Could be confused with L
Tell successfully shot an apple from tradegian.] an actress who an act, process, or instance of
the head of his own son. specializes in tragic roles. carrying or taking something from
On Thursday night, Ms Siddons, one person or place to another.
toxophily the granddaughter of the Ralph’s dad was in charge of the
tragedienne, made her first transference of fish from the fishery
trachea appearance. to the lake being restocked.
tracheostomy tragedy transience

n n
/ TtrCkGSBstEmG / trajectory / StranzGEnts /
Gk + Gk L
the surgical formation of an tralatitious [has homonym: transients] the
opening into the trachea through quality or state of passing through
the skin. trammel or by only briefly.
When Chris developed throat The photographer is able to
cancer, a tracheostomy had to be tramontana capture transience by being ready
performed to facilitate his n to click the shutter at the crucial
breathing. / TtrB(T)mPnStBnE / moment.
L > It
tracheotomy the north wind; especially : a dry transient
cold strong northerly wind of the
tractable west coast of Italy. transit
adj Each winter the tramontana n
/ StraktEbEl / swoops piercingly through the / Stran(t)sDt /
L streets of Rome. L
capable of being easily led, taught, the passage of a smaller body
or controlled. transcend across the disk of a larger (as of
Maybe Fatima’s work would Venus or Mercury across the Sun’s
improve if she were more tractable. transcendental disk).
adj Barrie used sensitive equipment to
tractile / TtranTsenSdentFl / photograph the transit of Venus.
adj L
/ StraktFl / extending or being beyond the translucent
L > Ecf limits of ordinary experience.
capable of being drawn out in Edward’s transcendental transmissible
length. meditation guru also instructs him adj
With laboratory equipment, Dr. in yoga. / tran(t)SsmisEbEl /
Abrams was able to extend the L
tractile material to a great length. capable of being sent or conveyed
to another person or place.
Poison ivy is transmissible through
the air to those who are very
sensitive to it.
Page 324 of 349

transmit treacherous treatise
adj n
transmogrify / Strech(E)rEs / / StrGZDs /
v F>E F? > AF > E
/ tran(t)SsmBgrETfI / characterized by usually hidden a writing that provides in a
unknown dangers, hazards, or perils. systematic matter and for an
change or alter in form, Throughout the winter, frigid expository or argumentative
appearance, or structure often with temperatures and the damp sea air purpose a methodical discussion of
grotesque or humorous effect. cause treacherous black ice to form the facts and principles involved
Buford set out to transmogrify the on streets. and conclusions reached.
hearse into a hot rod. Victor’s treatise on international
treachery relations was well received by his
trattoria colleagues.
n treacly
/ TtrBZESrGE / adj treble
F > It / StrGk(E)lG / adj
an eating house : restaurant. Gk > F > L > E / StrebEl /
It seems to Fran that any trattoria heavily sweet and cloying. F>E
located next to the golf course fails, Sarah’s treacly voice warned her threefold.
regardless of the cuisine. mother that a big request was Whatever might be their motive or
forthcoming. motives—whether single, double,
traulism or treble—their actions were
treadmill unjustified.
trauma n
n / StredTmil / trefoil
/ StraUmE / E+E n
Gk a device operated by walking on an / StrGTfOil /
an injury or wound caused by the endless belt for the purpose of L>F>E
application of external force or exercise. any of the common clovers.
violence. Walking on a treadmill in his The hunter came upon several
The football player suffered the apartment was convenient, but Sam rabbits feeding on a patch of
trauma of a broken leg. preferred to get his exercise trefoil.
outside, weather permitting.
traumatize treillage
treason
traumatropism n trekked
n / StrGzFn /
/ trOSmatrETpizEm / L>F>E trellis
Gk the offense of attempting by overt
a modification of the orientation of acts to overthrow the government trellised
an organ (as a plant root) as a result of the state to which the offender
of wounding. owes allegiance or to kill or tremendous
Traumatropism of the roots does personally injure the sovereign or adj
not usually affect plant growth. the sovereign’s family. / trDSmendEs /
All persons involved in the L
traversed attempted coup were charged with astonishing by reason of extreme
v treason. size, power, greatness, or
/ trESvErst / excellence.
L>F>E treasure Computers have had a tremendous
moved to and fro over or along. impact on modern business
Zane serenely traversed the frozen practices.
pond.
travesty
Page 325 of 349

tremulous trianon trichogenous
adj n adj
/ StremyElEs / / StrGETnBn / / TtrDSkBjEnEs /
L F architecture Gk
quivering, shaking. a small elegant villa. producing hair.
Uncle Edgar’s tremulous Albert wrote his latest thriller in a Trichogenous cells produce the tiny
handwriting is one sign of his rented trianon on the Riviera. hairs on insect bodies and limbs.
Parkinson’s disease.
tribunal trichotomy
trenchant n n
/ trISbyVnFl / / trISkBZETmG /
trenchantly L Gk
adv a court or forum of justice. a system divided or divisible into
/ StrenchEntlG / The people have wisely provided, in three constituents or elements.
F>E the constitution itself, a tribunal for Golda’s civics teacher explained
in a sharply perceptive manner. settling questions of constitutional how the United States government
The commentator trenchantly law. is a trichotomy, divided into the
analyzed the pros and cons of legislative, judicial, and executive
legalized gambling. tributary branches.
n
trepidation / StribyETterG / trickle
L
trespass a stream feeding a larger stream or trigonometry
v a lake. n
/ StrespEs / The Ohio River is a tributary of the / TtrigESnBmEtrG /
F>E Mississippi River. Gk
make an unwarranted or uninvited a branch of mathematics dealing
incursion. tricenary with the relations holding among
The rock salt from farmer Brown’s adj the sides and angles of triangles
shotgun taught Wally a painful / StrIsFnTerG / and among closely related
lesson: Don’t trespass. L magnitudes and especially with
having or lasting 30 days. methods of deducing from given
tressed Cameron never can remember parts other required parts.
which months are tricenary. Rachel enjoyed her course in
trey trigonometry much more than she
n tricephalous enjoys her calculus class.
/ StrC / adj
L>F>E / trISsefElEs / trihedral
[has homonym: tray] the side of a Gk
die or domino that has three spots. having or depicted with three trillion
If Ian draws either a trey or an ace heads.
from the boneyard, he believes he Orpheus managed to lull the Trinity
will win the game of dominoes. tricephalous watchdog to sleep by n
playing his lyre. / StrinEZG /
triage L>F>E
n trichinosis the union of three persons or
/ trGSBzh / n personified concepts (as the Father,
F / TtrikESnPsDs / the Son, and the Holy Spirit) in one
the sorting of and allocation of Gk godhead so that all the three are
treatment to patients and especially infestation with or disease caused one God as to substance but three
battle and disaster victims by certain nematode worms persons or concepts as to
according to a system of priorities contracted by eating raw or individuality.
designed to maximize the number undercooked infested food and The Catholic Church once
of survivors. especially pork. excommunicated believers in the
Once the system of triage was Madeline cooked the pork chops false Trinity of God, Mary, and
implemented, medics were better well so there would be no danger of Jesus.
able to decide which soldiers trichinosis.
should receive immediate tripelennamine
treatment.
Page 326 of 349

tripod trochanter trophallaxis
n n
triquetra / trPSkantE(r) / / TtrBfESlaksDs /
n Gk > L Gk > L
/ trISkwGtrE / the second segment counting from exchange of food between
L the base of the leg of an insect. organisms (as the social insects).
a triangle-shaped figure or A trochanter is one of the five parts Bees, ants, and wasps practice
decoration. of an insect’s leg. trophallaxis.
Murray stenciled a leafy triquetra
in each corner of the kitchen trocheameter tropicopolitan
ceiling. n adj
/ TtrBkGSamEZE(r) / / TtrBpEkPSpBlEtFn /
triskelion Gk? + Gk > E Gk
n an instrument used to count the inhabiting all countries near the
/ trISskelGEn / revolutions of a wheel. equator.
Gk According to the trocheameter Today the coconut palm is a
a figure composed of three usually attached to one of the wagon tropicopolitan species.
curved or bent branches radiating wheels, the wagon train had
from a center. traveled 30 miles. tropophilous
A triskelion has been the emblem of adj
the Isle of Man since the 13th trochiline / trPSpBfElEs /
century, when the Vikings were Gk + Gk
ousted. trodden thriving in an environment that
v undergoes marked periodic changes
triste / StrBdFn / (as in temperature, soil moisture, or
adj E available light).
/ StrGst / walked or trampled upon Deciduous trees of the temperate
L>F>E something. regions are examples of
sad, dismal, dull, depressing. The cattle had trodden over the tropophilous plants.
A triste quartet could be heard field, flattening the tall grass and
from the window. weeds. trough
n
triturate troglodyte / StrOf /
n E
triumph / StrBglETdIt / [Note: The definition provided is
Gk > L not the one most commonly
triumphal a member of a primitive people associated with this word.] an
dwelling in caves or pits. elongated area of low barometric
triumvirate While spelunking, Zan and Patrick pressure usually with a minimum
n stumbled on the bones of a pressure at each end and between
/ trISEmvErDt / troglodyte. two areas of higher pressure.
L Eric listened to the weather
a group, party, or association of troglodytic forecaster explain how the local
three. weather was being influenced by
Vince, Steve, and Phil jokingly troika the trough that was present.
refer to themselves as the “terrible n
triumvirate.” / StrOikE / trousseau
trivet Russ n
n a group of three. / StrV(T)sP /
/ StrivDt / Astrology, yoga, and poetry are the F
L>E troika of humanities that most [Note: Plural form can be
a usually ornamental metal stand interest Bryce. pronounced similarly.] the personal
with short feet especially for use possessions of a bride usually
under a hot dish at a table. including clothes, accessories, and
A brass trivet featuring the local household linens and wares.
college’s insignia is the best-selling Felicity kept her trousseau in a
item in the gift shop. hope chest at the foot of her bed.
trochaic trove
Page 327 of 349

trowel tuberculosis tumulus
n n
truculent / tETbErkyESlPsDs / / St(y)VmyElEs /
adj L L
/ StrEkyElEnt / a communicable disease caused by [has homonym: tumulous] an
L the tubercle bacillus and artificial hillock or mound (as over
feeling or evincing savage ferocity characterized by toxic symptoms or a grave).
: fierce. allergic manifestations which in In the center of the cemetery is a
Hunger makes the tiger a truculent humans primarily affect the lungs. large tumulus where one of the
hunter. The antibiotic drug streptomycin town’s founders is buried.
has been successfully used to treat
trumpet tuberculosis. tundra
n
truncated tufaceous / StEndrE /
adj adj Finno-Ugric > Russ
/ StrENTkCZDd / / t(y)VSfCshEs / a treeless plain characteristic of
L Osco-Umbrian > L > It arctic and subarctic regions with a
abbreviated by or as if by lopping. of or resembling a rock composed permanently frozen subsoil.
Cindy’s cat has a truncated tail. of the finer kinds of volcanic Do reindeer graze on the moss of
debris. the tundra?
truncheon Many buildings in Italy were tungsten
constructed of tufaceous rock. n
trunnioned / StENstDn /
adj tuffet Sw
/ StrEnyEnd / n a gray-white high-melting hard
F / StEfDt / metallic element that is used in the
having a pin or pivot usually Gmc? > F? > E pure form chiefly for electrical
mounted on bearings for rotating or a low seat : stool. purposes (as for filaments for
tilting. Katie stood on the tuffet to reach incandescent lamps).
Dave attached a trunnioned the book on the top shelf. The filament in many light bulbs is
compass to the deck of his sailboat. a thin wire of tungsten.
tularemia
truttaceous n turban
adj / TtVlESrGmGE / n
/ TtrEStCshEs / Calif geog name + Lcf / StErbEn /
L a bacterial disease of rodents, man, Per > Turk > F
of, relating to, or resembling a and some domestic animals. a headdress worn chiefly in
trout. Jerry’s temperature reached a countries of the eastern
Truttaceous fish are highly dangerously high level during his Mediterranean and southern Asia
esteemed as sport fish because of bout with tularemia. especially by Muslims and made of
their spiritedness. a cap around which is wound a
tulle long cloth.
trypanosome A camel driver wearing a blue
tumefaction turban asked Rebecca if she would
tsetse like a short ride.
tumultuous
tsunami adj turbid
n / t(y)VSmElch(E)wEs /
/ (t)sVSnBmG / L turbine
Jpn full of commotion and uproar : n
a great sea wave produced by boisterous. / StErbDn /
submarine earth movements or As the basketball star entered, he L>F
volcanic eruption. received tumultuous applause from [has homonym: turban] a rotary
The dock workers were alerted in his schoolmates. engine.
time to evacuate the harbor area The plane could not take off until
before the tsunami hit. the damaged turbine was repaired.
turbot
Page 328 of 349

turbulence turpentine tutelary
n n adj
/ StErbyElEn(t)s / / StErpEnTtIn / / St(y)VZFlTerG /
L Gk > L > F > E L
highly irregular atmospheric any of various oleoresins that are having the guardianship or charge
motion characterized by rapid derived from coniferous trees and of protecting a person or a thing.
changes in wind speed and are obtained in crude form as The young princesses were
direction and the presence of up yellowish viscous exudates of surrounded by tutelary employees.
and down currents. characteristic odor and taste from
The captain warned the plane’s incisions in the tree trunks and that tutoyer
passengers to brace themselves for usually thicken and solidify in the
a patch of turbulence. air. tuyere
The most common use of turpentine n
turgescence is in paint and lacquer thinners. / tVSye(E)r /
F
turgescent turpitude a nozzle through which an air blast
n is delivered to a forge.
turgid / StErpETtVd / Dan checked the tuyere for an
L obstruction.
turmoil inherent baseness or vileness of
n principle, words, or actions : tweezers
/ StErTmOil / depravity. n pl
unknown Sean accused Amitab of moral / StwGzE(r)z /
an utterly confused, extremely turpitude for teasing the cat. F>E
agitated, or tumultuous state or any of various small pincer-shaped
condition. turret tools used for plucking, holding, or
Jacob experienced unrelenting n manipulating.
turmoil after his parents informed / StErDt / The jeweler used a pair of fine
him that the family might move. F>E tweezers to extract the broken
a little tower. spring from inside Jeff’s pocket
turnstile The princess escaped from the watch.
n turret by sliding down a rope of
/ StErnTstI(E)l / knotted bedsheets. twelfth
E+E
a post with four arms pivoted on turricular twinkle
the top set in a gateway to regulate adj v
or monitor passage. / TtESrikyElE(r) / / StwiNkEl /
Contrary to the prominently posted L E
warning sign, Calvin hopped over shaped like or resembling a tower. shine with a flickering, sparkling,
the turnstile. Shauna’s birthday cake was or intermittent light.
turricular and decorated to look Atmospheric conditions affect how
turnverein like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. a star will twinkle in the night sky.
turophile turriferous tycoon

n
/ St(y)UrETfIl / tutania tympanum
Gk n
a gourmet of cheese : a cheese tutelage / StimpEnEm /
fancier. n Gk > L
The turophile warned us not to be / St(y)VZFlij / a thin tense membrane covering an
beguiled by the low cost of inferior L organ of hearing (as in the leg of an
processed cheese. instruction; especially : individual insect).
instruction accompanied by close The tympanum, which is sometimes
personal attention and a conscious hidden beneath the base of an
attempt at guidance. insect’s wing cover, is activated by
Evan made astounding progress the pressure of sound waves.
under the tutelage of his new
trumpet teacher.
Page 329 of 349

typhlology tyranny ultimatum
n n n
/ tiSflBlEjG / / StirEnG / / TEltESmCZEm /
Gk L>F>E L
the scientific study of blindness, its absolute government in which a final proposition, condition, or
causes, effects, and control. power is vested in a single ruler. demand; especially : one whose
Researchers in typhlology have The tyranny of many medieval rejection will end negotiations and
found that certain nutritional kingdoms was eventually cause a resort to force or other
deficiencies can result in the supplanted by democracy. direct action.
clouding and softening of the If the striking workers refused its
cornea. ubiquitous ultimatum, the company threatened
adj to close the factory permanently.
typhoon / yVSbikwEZEs /
n L ultraviolet
/ tISfVn / existing or being everywhere at the adj
Gk&Chinese same time : omnipresent. / TEltrESvIElDt /
a tropical cyclone occurring in the The drum is a ubiquitous L+L>F>E
region of the Philippines or the instrument in world music. situated beyond the visible
China Sea. spectrum at the violet end and
A typhoon of unimaginable fury udometer having a wavelength shorter than
swung across the coastal plains of n visible light and longer than X rays.
Bangladesh, swallowing up villages / yVSdBmEZE(r) / Arthur purchased sunglasses that
and sweeping away food crops. L + Gk provide some protection against
an instrument for measuring the ultraviolet radiation.
typify quantity of precipitation that falls at
v a given place and time. ululant
/ StipDTfI / The local television station asked
L + Ecf Karen to put a udometer in her ululation
embody the essential or salient backyard. n
characteristics of. / TElyESlCshEn /
Dickens’s characters typify the udomograph L
Victorian era. a loud mournful usually protracted
uglify and rhythmical sound : howl.
typothetae An ululation from deep in the
ulcerous woods gave Jesse goosebumps.
tyrannical
adj ullage umbilical
/ tDSranDkEl / adj
Gk ulotrichous / TEmSbilDkEl /
exhibiting imperious and usually adj L
oppressive exercise of absolute / yVSlBtrDkEs / attached by or as if by a cord
power : despotic. Gk + Gk arising at the navel that connects a
Patrick Henry spoke fervently having woolly or crisp hair. fetus with the placenta.
about the urgent need to arrest the The ulotrichous aborigines crafted Important medical research is
tyrannical hands of the British wide-toothed combs for their hair. being done with stem cells obtained
ministry and Parliament. from umbilical cords.
ulterior
tyrannize adj umbra
/ TElStirGE(r) / n
tyrannous L / SEmbrE /
not apparent : hidden. L
When Sherman volunteered to walk a shaded area : darkness.
the dog, his ulterior motive was to Trent saw something flicker in the
escape the boring conversation in umbra beneath the side porch.
the house.
ultimacy
Page 330 of 349

umbrage unanimous unctuosity
n adj
/ SEmbrij / / yVSnanEmEs / unctuous
L>F>E L
displeasure, resentment, being of one mind : agreeing in underrate
annoyance. opinion, design, or determination.
Hatred between nations disposes The advice given the candidate by underread
each more readily to offer insult those in his confidence was
and injury and lay hold of slight unanimous. undisciplinable
causes of umbrage.
unau undulance
umbrageous n
adj / yVSnO / undulate
/ TEmSbrCjEs / Tupi > F v
L>F>E a two-toed sloth of Central and / SEnjETlCt /
providing protection from heat and South America. L
light : shady. The unau seldom descends to the form or move in waves.
Sherwood Forest was the ground because its slow movements Terry stood on the shore and
umbrageous domain of the make it easy prey for jaguars and watched the ocean undulate in the
legendary Robin Hood and his other predators. moonlight.
outlaw band.
unciferous undulation
umbrella adj
/ TEnSsif(E)rEs / unencrypted
umlaut L
n bearing a hook or hooklike unexceptionable
/ SUmTlaUt / structure. adj
G Weaving and other fiber arts / TEnikSsepsh(E)nEbEl /
a diacritical mark composed of two involve the use of several Ecf + L
adjacent dots placed especially over unciferous tools. not open or liable to objection,
a German vowel to indicate a criticism, or reproach :
vowel shift. uncinate unimpeachable.
Gary never knew how to pronounce adj Mr. Weston was a man of
words with an umlaut until he / SEn(t)sEnDt / unexceptionable character, easy
studied German. L fortune, suitable age, and pleasant
bent at the tip like a hook. manners.
umpire Using a magnifying glass, Chad
n was able to examine the insect’s unfeigned
/ SEmTpI(E)r / uncinate antennae.
L>F>E unforgettable
one having authority to arbitrate unconscionable
and make a final decision, as an adj unfurl
official in a sport who rules on the / TEnSkBnch(E)nEbEl / v
plays. Ecf + L + Ecf / TEnSfErl /
The coach vehemently objected not guided or controlled by an Ecf + L > F
when the umpire ejected the player internal sense of right or wrong : release or open out from a rolled-up
for unsportsmanlike conduct. unscrupulous. state.
The governor was denounced for Kendra embroidered her school’s
unabridged his unconscionable indifference to motto on the new flag she will
the plight of the homeless. unfurl during tomorrow’s
unaccompanied assembly.
uncouth
adj unguent
/ TEnSkVth /
Ecf + E
lacking in polish and grace.
Last night we watched a movie
about turning an uncouth high
school student into a princess.
Page 331 of 349

unguligrade unisonous untenantable
adj adj
/ SENgyElETgrCd / universally / EnStenEntEbEl /
L Ecf + L + Lcf
walking on hoofs. unparalleled [Note: Could be confused with
Unguligrade mammals include untenable.] incapable of being
horses, cows, swine, camels, deer, unprecedented occupied or lived in.
elephants, rhinoceroses, and tapirs. adj The hurricane left thousands of
/ EnSpresEdentDd / homes untenantable.
unhygienic Ecf + L + Ecff
new, unexampled. unveiled
unicameral Last year the city experienced an
unprecedented expansion in unyielding
unicorn population and industry. adj
n / TEnSyGldiN /
/ SyVnETkOrn / unpredictable Ecf + E
L>F>E adj refusing to give way : resolute,
a fabulous animal possibly based / TEnprGSdiktEbEl / obstinate.
on faulty old descriptions of the Ecf + L Jake’s unyielding opposition to the
rhinoceros and generally depicted not to be foretold. proposed surprise party is
with the body and head of a horse, The raging forest fire was difficult becoming tiresome.
the hind legs of a stag, the tail of a to contain because of the
lion, and in the middle of the unpredictable weather patterns of upbraid
forehead a single long straight that area.
horn. upeygan
Sarah has a poster of a beautiful unprincipled n
white unicorn on her wall. adj / VSpCgEn /
/ TEnSprin(t)sEpEld / Shona
unilateral E+L a black rhinoceros.
lacking or exhibiting a lack of a The front horn of the upeygan can
unintelligible moral code of conduct. reach a length of over 30 inches.
adj The detective described the arsonist
/ TEnDnStelEjEbEl / as “unprincipled and upheaval
Ecf + E + L conscienceless.”
difficult to comprehend. unpronounceable upholstery
Dave readily admitted that he
found the article unintelligible. unrequited uppity
adj adj
unique / TEnrDSkwIZDd / / SEpEZG /
adj Ecf + L > E E + Ecf
/ yVSnGk / not returned in kind. marked by airs of superiority.
L Several passages in the novel were Nicole forgave Amanda for her
being without a like or equal : devoted to Harriet’s unrequited uppity behavior at the party.
single in kind or excellence : love for Mr. Elton.
unequaled. upright
The class agreed that Martin unscrupulous adj
Luther King Jr. had a unique adj / SEpTrIt /
impact on civil rights in the 20th / TEnSskrVpyElEs / E
century. E+L standing up straight on the feet or
unprincipled. on one end.
unison Desmond was not so unscrupulous When Mom’s old upright vacuum
adj as to betray his comrades. cleaner finally broke down, she
/ SyVnEsEn / went out and bought a new canister
L>F unsullied model.
identical in musical pitch.
The choir was well trained in uproarious
unison singing; every member
could hit the same note perfectly.
Page 332 of 349

urbanity usher usurper
n n n
/ TErSbanEZG / / SEshE(r) / / yVSsErpEr /
L L>F>E L
the quality or state of evincing the one who escorts persons to seats at one that infringes or encroaches
polish and suavity characteristic of an assemblage (as in a theater, upon the rights or property of
social life in larger cities. church, or hall). another.
Melissa’s easy urbanity belied her The usher informed the latecomers By the end of his term, the mayor
discomfort at the pie-eating that they would not be seated until had become known as a usurper of
contest. the end of the first act. authority.
urbiculture ustion usury

n n
/ SErbETkElchEr / / SEs(h)chEn / utensil
L L>F
the practices and problems peculiar the action of burning. utilitarian
to cities. Finding the paper too thick to tear adj
The congressman proposed a new or cut easily, Richard resorted to / (T)yVTtilESterGEn /
federal department of urbiculture ustion to destroy it without a trace. L>F>E
to deal with the problems of city characterized by or aiming at
dwellers. ustulation usefulness as distinguished from
n beauty or ornament.
urceolate / TEs(h)chESlCshEn / Dean chose a utilitarian briefcase
adj L over the fancy leather model.
/ SErTsGElDt / the action of burning or searing.
L By ustulation the metallurgist utility
shaped like an urn. separated the sulfur from the ore.
At the end of the drive stood a pair utilizable
of urceolate boxwoods. usufruct adj
n / SyVZFlTIzEbEl /
urchin / SyVzETfrEkt / L>F>E
L capable of being made use of.
urgency the right to use or enjoy something. It took three months, but eventually
The homeowners in Eleanor’s Leon was able to convert the
ursine neighborhood have a usufruct to a prototype into a utilizable product.
adj large fenced park.
/ SErTsIn / utterance
L usurious n
[has near homonym: hircine] of, adj / SEZErEn(t)s /
relating to, or characteristic of a / yVSzhUrGEs / F>E
bear. L + Ecf something that is spoken.
Some children are particularly involving or taking illegal or Smoke and clamor accompanied
fascinated by ursine hibernation. exorbitant interest for the use of every utterance of the Great Oz.
money.
urticant The officers of the bank were uxorial
adj charged with usurious practices. adj
/ SErZDkEnt / / TEkSsPrGEl /
L usurpative L>E
producing itching or stinging. adj of, relating to, or having the
Strawberry nettles are notorious / yVSsErpEZiv / characteristics of a wife.
for their urticant effect on human L The new bride’s conduct defied
skin. characterized by or constituting the Mrs. Ketchum’s notions of proper
unauthorized arbitrary assumption uxorial behavior.
and exercise of power especially as
infringing on others’ rights. uxorious
The king banished the prince for
his traitorous usurpative acts. vacation
vacationland
Page 333 of 349

vacatur vacuous valedictory
n adj n
/ vCSkCZEr / / SvakyEwEs / / TvalESdikt(E)rG /
L L L
an order of court making void a emptied of or lacking content (as of a speech or farewell usually given
legal proceeding. air or gas). at the commencement exercises of
The court issued a vacatur when it Vacuous spaces within the a school or college.
found that the defendant’s rights meteorite made it easy to split in Alice’s valedictory at graduation
had not been upheld. half. brought the entire senior class to
its feet.
vaccary vacuum
n valet
/ SvakErG / vagabond
L adj valetudinarian
a place where cows or cattle are / SvagETbBnd / n
kept : dairy farm. L>F>E / TvalETtVdFnSerGEn /
The teacher plans to take her moving from place to place without L
students to a vaccary during their a fixed home. a person of a weak or sickly
study of the dairy food group. Orson wanted to buy a motor home constitution; especially : one whose
and lead a vagabond life, but chief concern is his invalidism.
vaccinate Eileen refused to sell their house. Grandpa hopes that he will never
v be a valetudinarian.
/ SvaksETnCt / vagary
L>F n valiant
administer a preparation of / SvCgErG /
microorganisms in order to produce L valiantly
or increase immunity to a particular a whimsical, fanciful, or adv
disease. extravagant idea or notion. / SvalyEntlG /
Doctors no longer vaccinate George’s idea that he would be L>F>E
American children against spending his spring break in Paris in a brave or bold manner :
smallpox, as that disease was was sheer vagary. courageously.
eradicated during the 1970s. Deidre tried valiantly to swim the
vagrancy English Channel.
vaccine n
/ SvCgrEnsG / validity
vaccinoid L? n
the state or offense of being a / vESlidEZG /
vacillate person who has no established L
v residence and wanders idly from the quality or state of being well
/ SvasETlCt / place to place without lawful or grounded or justifiable.
L visible means of support. Some people question the validity
waver in mind, will, or feeling : To clear the downtown area of of Darwin’s theory of evolution.
hesitate in choice of opinions or homeless people, the mayor
courses. instructed the police to arrest them valley
Theresa must allow more time to for vagrancy.
choose what she will wear if she valorous
cannot stop her tendency to vaguely adj
vacillate. / SvalErEs /
vainness L
vacuity brave, courageous.
Carrie’s valorous behavior during
the flood earned her a medal.
valve
vampire
Page 334 of 349

vandalism variation vaudeville
n n n
/ SvandFTlizEm / / TverGSCshEn / / SvOd(E)vDl /
L>E L F geog name
willful or malicious destruction or a solo dance in ballet. a stage entertainment especially
defacement of things of beauty or Erik choreographed a variation to popular in the early decades of the
of public or private property. be performed by the stars of his 20th century that consisted of
The boys who knocked over the ballet company. various unrelated acts following
gravestones were eventually caught one another in succession and that
and charged with vandalism. varicelliform might include performing animals,
adj acrobats, comedians, dancers,
vandalize / TvarESselETfOrm / singers, or magicians.
v L+L Some of the stars of vaudeville went
/ SvandFTlIz / resembling chicken pox. on to become movie actors.
Gk > L > F A virus was responsible for Lloyd’s
destroy or deface property, usually varicelliform rash. vaudevillian
with malicious intent. n
The gang planned to vandalize the varicose / vOdSvilyEn /
tombstones at the cemetery with adj F geog name&L
spray paint on Halloween. / SvarETkPs / a writer or performer of stage
L entertainments especially popular
vanguard abnormally swollen or dilated. in theaters in the early decades of
Extreme cases of varicose veins the 20th century.
vanilla can require surgical treatment. In his days as a vaudevillian, Mr.
n Kramer was a comedian’s sidekick.
/ vESnilE / variegated
L > Sp adj vault
a flavoring extract made by soaking / Sver(G)ETgCZDd /
comminuted vanilla pods in a L vaward
mixture of water and grain alcohol. marked with different colors or n
The chef specified that real vanilla tints in spots, streaks, or stripes. / SvaUT(w)Ord /
be used when making the cake. A shady corner of the garden was F>E
brightened by a clump of the foremost part : forefront.
vanquish variegated coleus plants. The vaward of the column stopped
to allow stragglers to catch up.
vapidity variolous
veal
vaporetto vasodilator
n vealskin
vargueno / TvC(T)zPSdITlCZE(r) /
L vegetable
variable an agent (as a parasympathetic
n nerve fiber or a drug) that induces vegetarian
/ SverGEbEl / or initiates widening of the lumen adj
L of blood vessels. / TvejESterGEn /
[Note: The definition provided is Red wine contains tyramine, a L > E + Ecf
not the one most commonly vasodilator that can cause flushing consisting wholly of edible plants.
associated with this word.] a star and headaches. After spending two years in Japan,
whose brightness changes in more Annabelle followed a vegetarian
or less regular periods. vassal diet.
Clement spent six months tracking n
changes in the variable. / SvasEl /
Celt > L > F > E
a feudal tenant.
The lord of the estate rewarded the
vassal for years of faithful service.
vaticinator
Page 335 of 349

vehemence velocity venerable
n n adj
/ SvGEmEn(t)s / / vDSlBsEZG / / SvenEr(E)bEl /
L>F L>F L
the quality or state of being quickness of motion : swiftness, deserving to be regarded with
expressive of strong emotion or speed. profound respect and affection.
conviction. George estimated the velocity of The venerable teacher’s retirement
Norm’s impetuosity and vehemence the wind at 22 miles per hour. saddened students who had hoped
of temper made him his own worst to benefit from her instruction.
enemy. velodrome
n vengeance
vehicle / SvGlETdrPm / n
L > F + Gk > F / SvenjEn(t)s /
vein a building containing a track L>F>E
designed for cycling. infliction of punishment in return
velitation The university’s new velodrome for an injury or offense.
n was funded by an alumnus who was The defeated team howled with
/ TvelEStCshEn / an ardent bicyclist. rage and fury and swore bloody
L vengeance.
[Note: Could be confused with vendaval
vellication.] a dispute or slight n venireman
contest : skirmish. / TvendESval /
Police used every means to keep F > Sp venison
the velitation from exploding into a an autumnal thundersquall on the n
riot. coast of Mexico. / SvenEsEn /
A recent vendaval damaged the L>F>E
velleity banana grove. the flesh of a deer.
n Mandy roasted a leg of venison
/ vESlGEZG / vendetta with prunes and chestnuts.
L n
a slight wish : a faint desire. / venSdeZE / venom
Mr. and Mrs. Newton found that L > It n
the hotel staff had anticipated their a prolonged feud marked by bitter / SvenEm /
every velleity. hostility. L>F>E
Chloe’s all-night party exacerbated poisonous matter normally secreted
vellication the vendetta with her neighbor. by some animals (as snakes,
n scorpions, or bees).
/ TvelESkCshEn / veneer The snake’s venom paralyzed its
L n prey.
the act of twitching or of causing to / vDSni(E)r /
twitch. G ventilate
While dissecting a frog in biology a thin sheet of wood cut or sawed v
class, Sam noticed vellication of the from a log and adapted for / SventFlTCt /
legs. adherence to a smooth surface (as L
of wood). cause fresh air to circulate through
vellum The maple veneer really spruced up and contaminated air to be
n the old pine table. simultaneously withdrawn from.
/ SvelEm / To ventilate her kitchen, Margo set
F>E veneniferous a fan in the doorway and opened
a thin calfskin specially prepared as adj the windows.
a surface for writing. / TvenESnif(E)rEs /
Sanford carefully turned the rare L + Ecf
vellum over to see if there was any bearing or transmitting poison and
writing on the back. especially a natural venom.
Ellen couldn’t believe that anyone
velocious would want to work with
veneniferous snakes for a living.
Page 336 of 349

ventriloquist verbena verdolaga
n n n
/ venStrilETkwDst / / vE(r)SbGnE / / TvErdESlBgE /
L L L > Ar > Sp
one who is skilled in the art of any of numerous garden plants that an annual herb with fleshy leaves.
speaking in such a manner that the are widely cultivated for their Latin American cooks use
voice appears to come from some showy spikes of white, pink, red, or verdolaga in soups and salads.
source other than the vocal organs blue flowers which are borne in
of the speaker. profusion over a long season. verdure
A ventriloquist entertained at Marcy noticed tiny flower buds on n
Rebecca’s birthday party. her verbena in early April and / SvErjEr /
anxiously awaited its full bloom. F>E
venue [has homonym: verger] fresh and
n verbigerate green growing vegetation.
/ Sven(T)yV / v Joe walked back into the soft thick
L>F / (T)vErSbijETrCt / verdure of the hills and tramped
a place designated to be the scene L until he was tired.
of a gathering, such as for a sports repeat a word or sentence endlessly
event. and meaninglessly. verglas
The Georgia Dome in Atlanta was The psychiatrist explained that n
the venue for Super Bowl XXXIV. some schizophrenic patients often / verSglB /
verbigerate. F
veracious a thin film of ice on rock.
adj verbomania On her way to the stream for some
/ vDSrCshEs / n fresh water, Connie slipped on the
L + Ecf / TvErbESmCnGE / nearly invisible verglas.
[has homonym: voracious] L + Gk
observant of the truth : habitually excessive use of or obsession with verisimilitude
speaking the truth. words. n
It was up to the jury to decide Frances was accused of / TverEsDSmilETtVd /
which of the two witnesses was the verbomania by her classmates, who L+L
more veracious. didn’t understand why she liked to the quality or state of having the
study spelling. appearance of truth.
veracity The artist’s scrupulous attention to
n verboten detail provided an impressive
/ vDSrasEZG / adj degree of verisimilitude.
L / vE(r)SbPtFn /
devotion to the truth : truthfulness. G verjuice
The prosecutor questioned the forbidden; especially : prohibited n
veracity of the witness. by dictate. / SvErTjVs /
Speaking English in the German F>E
verbally language-immersion program is the sour juice of crab apples or
adv verboten. other unripe fruit.
/ SvErbElG / Scrooge was the kind of person
L + Ecff verdant who looked as though he drank
in a manner involving the use of verjuice every morning.
words rather than action or verdigris
performance. n vermeil
Johann couldn’t describe the shape / SvErdETgrGs /
verbally, so he drew it. L>F>E vermicelli
a green or greenish blue poisonous n
verbatim pigment obtained by the action of / TvErmESselG /
adv acetic acid on copper. L > It
/ vE(r)SbCZDm / The verdigris on the church steeple alimentary paste made in long thin
L has aged beautifully. solid strings smaller in diameter
word for word : in the same words. than spaghetti.
Marcelle can recite the entire The restaurant’s five-way chili
Gettysburg Address verbatim. started with a base of vermicelli.
Page 337 of 349

vermiculate vertex vespertine
adj n adj
/ vE(r)SmikyElDt / / SvErTteks / / SvespE(r)TtIn /
L L L
wormlike in shape. the point on the limb of a celestial setting with or just after the Sun.
When Tom’s two-year-old brother body nearest the zenith. Venus is the most prominent
tried to draw something, he could The tiny dark spot near the Moon’s vespertine planet.
manage only a few vermiculate vertex is a huge crater.
lines. vessel
vertical
vernacular adj vestibule
adj / SvErZDkEl / n
/ vE(r)SnakyElEr / L>F / SvestETbyVl /
L perpendicular to the plane of the L>F
belonging to or being a language or horizon or to a primary axis : a passage, hall, or chamber
dialect developed in and spoken upright. between the outer door and the
and used by the people of a Blythe preferred the fabric with interior of a building.
particular place, region, or country broad vertical stripes. The elevators were located at the
in a form considered nonstandard. end of the vestibule.
Mr. Hillis could not understand the vertiginate
vernacular language of the v vestige
rappers. / TvErStijETnCt / n
L / Svestij /
vernal whirl dizzily around : twirl. L>F
adj Young children love to vertiginate a remaining bit that constitutes a
/ SvErnFl / until they fall down. memorial or trace of something
L formerly present.
of, relating to, or characteristic of vertiginous Dmitri thought he detected a
the spring. vestige of natural gas odor in the
Cherry trees produce some of the vertigo kitchen.
prettiest vernal blossoms. n
/ SvErZDTgP / veterinary
vernissage L
a disordered state in which the vexation
verricule individual or the individual’s
surroundings seem to whirl dizzily. vexatious
versatile The constant rocking of the boat adj
adj produced feelings of vertigo and / vekSsCshEs /
/ SvErsEZFl / nausea in many of the passengers. L
L causing or likely to cause mental
[Note: The definition provided is vesicant suffering.
not the one most commonly n A lame carriage horse threw
associated with this word.] marked / SvesDkEnt / everything into sad uncertainty and
by a tendency to change : L+E created a situation Emma found
fluctuating readily. an agent (as a drug or a plant most vexatious.
Tricia’s versatile temperament substance) that induces blistering.
made it impossible to predict her Brittany wore thick gloves in order vexillology
reactions. to avoid contact with the vesicant.
viable
vertebrate vespacide
adj n vibraphone
/ SvErZEbrDt / / SvespETsId /
L L vibrato
having a spinal column. one that kills wasps.
Vertebrate animals include fishes, Mindy waved the can of vespacide
reptiles, birds, and mammals. threateningly at the nest of yellow
jackets.
vespertilian
Page 338 of 349

vicarage vicontiel vignette
n adj
/ SvikErij / / vISkBntGEl / vilayet
L>E F > AF
the house of a priest of a parish. of or relating to a viscount or vilify
About a quarter of a mile down the sheriff. v
road rose the vicarage, an old and Robin Hood was wanted by the / SvilETfI /
not very good house. vicontiel authorities of several L
counties. utter slanderous and abusive
vicegerency statements against : defame.
victorious Wouldn’t it be refreshing if the
vicegerent candidates vying for the office did
n viduity not vilify each other?
/ vIsSjirEnt / n vilipend
L / vDSd(y)VEZG / v
an administrative deputy appointed L / SvilETpend /
to perform functions of a king or widowhood. L
magistrate. Wendy’s first husband was killed in speak of slightingly or
The emperor claimed that he was the Gulf War, but her viduity ended disparagingly : depreciate.
ruling as God’s vicegerent. when she remarried in 1994. The candidate decided to vilipend
her opponent instead of discussing
vicereine vigentennial the issues.
adj
vichyssoise / TvIjenStenGEl / villain
n L n
/ TvishGSswBz / occurring once every 20 years : / SvilDn /
F geog name relating to a 20th anniversary. L>F>E
a soup made of pureed leeks and The store celebrated its [has homonyms: villein, villan]
potatoes and usually served cold. vigentennial anniversary with a big one who deliberately plots and does
When vichyssoise is well made, it’s sale. serious harm to others.
heavenly; when it’s badly made, The police were seeking the villain
it’s inedible. vigesimal who conned several senior citizens
out of their savings.
vicinage vigilance
villainous
viciously vigilante
adv n villainy
/ SvishEslG / / TvijESlantG /
L>F>E L > Sp vinaceous
in a manner marked by violence or a member of a volunteer committee adj
ferocity. organized to protect an interest, / vISnCshEs /
The puppy attempted to shake the especially to suppress and punish L
old sock viciously. crime. of the color wine red.
The cowboy movie was about a The vinaceous liquid in the three-
vicissitude rancher who became a vigilante foot-high bottle at the restaurant is
n and joined in the search for a not really wine.
/ vDSsisETtVd / criminal.
L vinaigrette
an accident of fortune : a shift of vigneron n
luck. n / TvinESgret /
By the vicissitude of winning the / TvGnyESrPn / F
lottery, Helen was able to buy the F a sauce made typically of vinegar,
dream house she always wanted. one who cultivates a vineyard and oil, onions, parsley, and herbs.
makes wine from the grapes. The salad was dressed with a
The American vigneron was tomato-flavored vinaigrette.
delighted that the French judges
chose his wine as being among the vincible
world’s best.
Page 339 of 349

vinculum violin virulent
n n adj
/ SviNkyElEm / / TvIESlin / / Svir(y)ElEnt /
L OProv > It L
a unifying bond. a bowed stringed instrument having characterized by rapid course,
Their mutual love of dolls is the four strings, a shallow body, a severity, and malignancy—used
vinculum between Delia and fingerboard without frets, and a especially of a disease or infection.
Christine, who are otherwise very curved bridge. The virulent strain of flu spread
different. Reuben demonstrated his technical rapidly through the community.
virtuosity on the violin when he
vindicate auditioned for the string ensemble. visage
v
/ SvindETkCt / violoncello visceroptosis
L n n
free from any question of error, / TvIElEnSche(T)lP / / TvisErBpStPsDs /
dishonor, guilt, or negligence. It L + Gk
Oliver felt the judge’s decision the bass member of the violin downward displacement of the
would vindicate him completely. family that is tuned an octave abdominal organs.
below the viola and held vertically The growth of the tumor had
vinegar on the floor between the player’s caused visceroptosis.
n knees while in a sitting position.
/ SvinigE(r) / The violoncello played plaintively viscount
L>F>E in the prelude to the last act of the n
a sour liquid used as a condiment opera. / SvITkaUnt /
or a preservative that is obtained by L>F>E
acetic fermentation of dilute virago a noble ranking below an earl and
alcoholic liquids (as fermented n above a baron.
cider, malt beer, or wine) and is / vDSrBTgP / The viscount had no children and
often seasoned especially with L was becoming desperate to have an
herbs. [has near homonym: vorago] a heir.
Pete used a special aged balsamic loud overbearing woman.
vinegar in the salad dressing. The manager at the Department of viscous
Motor Vehicles was, unfortunately, adj
vineyard a virago. / SviskEs /
n L
/ SvinyE(r)d / viridescent [Note: Could be confused with
E adj viscose.] having the physical
a field of grapevines. / TvirESdesFnt / property of a fluid or semifluid that
While touring a Napa Valley L enables it to develop a certain
winery, Jamie wandered through greenish. amount of shearing stress
the vineyard. Gideon removed the viridescent dependent upon the velocity of
scum from the bottom of the horse flow and then to offer continued
vintner trough and added fresh water. resistance to the flow.
n Joe was surprised to learn that
/ SvintnE(r) / virtue glass is viscous, as evidenced by
L>F>E the fact that a windowpane, over
a person who sells wine : a wine virtuoso time, becomes thicker at its lower
merchant. n edge and thinner at its upper edge.
The vintner assured Babette that / TvErchESwP(T)sP /
the wine she was considering L > It visibility
would go well with veal. one who excels in the technique of n
an art; especially : a musical / TvizESbilEZG /
violated performer. L
The virtuoso took 12 curtain calls, the degree or extent to which
setting a new record for the concert something is capable of being seen.
hall. The captain announced that
visibility was approximately five
miles.
Page 340 of 349

vitiate vivace volatile
v adv adj
/ SvishGTCt / / vGSvB(T)chC / / SvBlEZFl /
L L > It L>F
make incomplete, faulty, or in a brisk spirited manner—used as easily passing off by evaporation.
defective : injure the substance or a direction in music. The fact that gasoline is highly
quality of. To her teacher’s frustration, volatile produces an advantage in
Freddie argued that Clark’s poor Marcie plays every piece as if it starting engines.
acting abilities would vitiate the were marked vivace.
school play. volition
vivacity n
vitreous / vPSlishEn /
adj vixenish L
/ SvitrGEs / adj the act of willing or choosing : the
L / SviksEnish / act of deciding.
of, relating to, derived from, or E The notary public asked Nigel to
consisting of glass. resembling a shrewish ill-tempered state that he was signing the
The huge vitreous wall of woman. contract of his own volition.
skyscrapers reflected the mountains Elena could become vixenish when
and the sunset. she felt slighted. volubility
n
vitrescible vizierial / TvBlyESbilEZG /
adj L
/ vDStresEbEl / vocabulary talkativeness.
L The cheerful volubility at Mrs.
of a kind that can be changed into vocation King’s luncheon is largely due to
glass or a glassy substance by heat n the fact that she is a great hostess.
and fusion. / vPSkCshEn /
The ceramics shop owner used only L voracious
the most vitrescible materials in his [Note: The definition provided is
work. not the one most commonly vorago
associated with this word.] a n
vitrine summons from God to an / vESrCTgP /
n individual to undertake the L
/ vDStrGn / obligations and perform the duties [has near homonym: virago] an
L>F of a particular task or function in engulfing chasm : abyss.
a glass showcase for display (as of life. Before he knew it, Beck had
fine wares or specimens). The parents of Thomas Aquinas crossed the bridge over the vorago.
Allegra has a large vitrine that entreated him to abandon his
houses her collection of porcelain religious vocation and return vorlage
figurines. home. n
/ SfPrTlBgE /
vitriolic vociferate G
adj the position of a skier leaning
/ TvitrGSBlik / vociferous forward from the ankles usually
L>F>E adj without lifting the heels from the
marked by a caustic biting quality. / vPSsif(E)rEs / skis.
Howard had to be reprimanded for L The object of the vorlage is to keep
his vitriolic outbursts against the marked by or given to ready the body of the skier perpendicular
referees and opposing players. vehement insistent outcry. to the slope.
A vociferous couple in the back row
vituperative ruined our evening at the poetry vorspiel
adj reading.
/ (T)vIStVpETrCZiv /
L vogue
containing or characterized by
wordy abuse. volante
Josh’s dad gave him a vituperative
lecture after the accident.
Page 341 of 349

vortex vulture wallaby
n n n
/ SvOrTteks / / SvElchE(r) / / SwBlEbG /
L L>E Australian name
a rapidly spinning current of water. any of various large raptorial birds any of various small or medium-
The toy sailboat got caught in the related to the hawks, eagles, and sized kangaroos.
vortex and spun wildly as the falcons but having weaker claws The wallaby usually feeds in the
bathtub drained. and a usually naked head and that safety of dusk or darkness.
subsist chiefly or entirely on the
vowel decaying flesh of dead animals. wallet
The turkey vulture rarely gets
voyage credit for its help in removing walleyed
n unfortunate opossums and skunks adj
/ SvOi(i)j / from our roadways. / SwOTlId /
L>E E
an act or instance of traveling : waffle having very light gray or whitish
excursion, tour. n eyes.
Bill and Gail went on a sea voyage / SwBfEl / The Appaloosa foaled a walleyed
for their honeymoon. D filly last spring.
a crisp cake made of pancake batter
vulgar baked in a specialized appliance. wallop
adj For breakfast, Mary ordered a v
/ SvElgE(r) / waffle topped with blueberry / SwBlEp /
L compote. F
lacking in cultivation, perception, gain a decisive victory over : beat
or taste. waggish by a wide margin : trounce.
Harriet vowed that she would not Coach Garrett predicts that the
visit Mr. Martin’s wife if he wagonload Cougars will soundly wallop the
married an ignorant vulgar Buccaneers.
woman. waif
waltz
vulnerable wainscot n
adj n / SwOlts /
/ SvElnEr(E)bEl / / SwCnzkEt / G
L D>E a moderately fast dance in three-
capable of being wounded : the lower three or four feet of an quarter time with a strong accent on
defenseless against injury. interior wall when finished the first beat of the measure and
Maggie’s sensitive nature made her differently from the remainder of characterized by one step per beat.
vulnerable to cross remarks. the wall (as with wood panels, tile, When the band started playing a
or marble slabs). waltz, Marilyn hoped that someone
vulnerary Michelle chose a striped wallpaper would ask her to dance.
adj for the wainscot in the dining room.
/ SvElnETrerG / wander
L wainwright
promoting the healing of wounds : wanderlust
curative. waldmeister n
There was a section in the old n / SwBndE(r)TlEst /
medical book about vulnerary / SwOldTmIstE(r) / G
herbs. G+L>G strong or unconquerable longing
a small European sweet-scented for or impulse toward traveling.
vulpine herb. Cayte’s wanderlust caused her to
The Germans use waldmeister to postpone college so that she could
flavor May wine. tour Europe.
Page 342 of 349

wantonness wasabi wearisome
n n adj
/ SwOntFn(n)Ds / / SwBsEbG / / SwirGsEm /
E Jpn E
the quality or state of being without an Asiatic herb whose greenish root tiresome, tedious.
check or limitation. is grated and eaten with fish or Gondolph found hearing accounts
The wantonness of comfort other food. of other people’s dreams
Georgetta experienced as a young In Japan, Pam had raw fish wearisome.
child caused her to become a seasoned with wasabi, which tasted
spoiled brat. like horseradish. weasel
n
wapiti washtrough / SwGzEl /
n E
/ SwBpEZG / wasp any of various small slender active
Algonquian n carnivorous mammals that are
a North American deer similar to / SwBsp / mostly reddish brown with white or
the European red deer but E yellowish underparts and in
considerably larger. any of numerous winged northern forms turn white in winter.
The older male wapiti is often hymenopterous insects that have In the snow the white fur of the
hunted for its antlers. well-developed wings and biting weasel camouflages it against
mouthparts, and a more or less attacks by hawks or owls.
warden formidable sting.
n The well-known yellow jacket is a weather
/ SwOrdFn / wasp with a hurtful sting.
Gmc > F > E webelos
an official in charge of the wasteweir n
operation of a prison. n / SwGbETlPz /
The warden recommended that the / SwCstTwi(E)r / E acronym
disruptive prisoner be denied L>F>E+E a Cub Scout of the fifth rank who is
parole. a notch in a levee or other barrier at least 10½ years old and is
across a stream for the escape of preparing for entrance into Boy
warehouse superfluous water. Scouts.
A wasteweir was constructed in the Noah spent his second year as a
warison dam to prevent flooding along the webelos working on his fitness,
banks of the stream. geologist, and handyman activity
warmonger badges.
wastrel
warmth n weddellite
/ SwCstrEl /
warrior L>F>E wedge
n something rejected or discarded as
/ SwOryEr / useless or imperfect. weevil
E Hardly any item is wastrel to the n
a human engaged or experienced in ardent recycler. / SwGvEl /
warfare and especially in primitive E
warfare or the close combat typical watercress any of numerous snout beetles in
of ancient or medieval times. n which the head is elongated and
The warrior attended a council / SwOZE(r)Tkres / usually curved downward to form a
before battle in the morning. E snout bearing the jaws at the tip.
a white-flowered plant growing in The boll weevil is a serious pest to
water with leaves that are used in the cotton crop in North America.
salads.
Jesse added some watercress and
carrots to the tossed salad.
waxen
Page 343 of 349

weigh wharfinger whilom
v n adj
/ SwC / / S(h)wO(r)fEnjE(r) / / ShwIlEm /
E E E
[has homonym: way] evaluate : a person or company operating a having been at an earlier time :
ponder. marine terminal with facilities for former.
Mrs. Avery asked Sam to weigh the the berthing of ships and the Mother frowned when Edgar said
potential consequences of his loading, unloading, and storage of the food was probably too hot to
decision. goods. eat, a whilom excuse for being late
The wharfinger keeps a parrot in for lunch.
weir his office.
n whimper
/ Swi(E)r / wheedle v
E v / ShwimpE(r) /
[has homonyms: weer, we're] a / ShwGdFl / imit
fence or enclosure set in a stream to unknown make a low whining plaintive or
catch fish. get or take something from by broken sound.
Bored by fishing, the boys set up a using soft words or flattery. Laura’s dog starts to whimper
weir and went off to play Ginger’s attempt to wheedle ten whenever he wants to be fed.
basketball. dollars out of her father was
unsuccessful. whimsical
weird adj
adj wheelbarrow / ShwimzDkEl /
/ Swi(E)rd / unknown
E wheelwright resulting from or determined by
[has homonym: weired] curious in n sudden unpredictable impulses.
nature or appearance : of strange or / S(h)wGlTrIt / Ichabod became the object of
extraordinary character. E whimsical persecution to Brom and
Most episodes of The X-Files begin a person whose occupation is to his gang of rough riders.
with a weird or puzzling event. make or repair circular frames of
metal, wood, or other hard material. whimsicality
welfare In the days of the horse and buggy,
the wheelwright had an essential whininess
welfarism job to do. n
n / ShwInGnDs /
/ SwelTfa(a)TrizEm / whelk E
E + Ecf the quality or state of complaining
the complex of policies, attitudes, whelp or lamenting with or as if with a
and beliefs associated with a n prolonged high-pitched sound.
welfare state. / Shwelp / Allen’s habitual whininess when
Free health care was touted as one E asked to do something he didn’t
of the benefits of welfarism. one of the young of various like annoyed both his teacher and
carnivorous mammals. his classmates.
welkin Wendy was delighted when the eyes
n of the cocker spaniel whelp finally whinyard
/ SwelkDn / opened.
E whippersnapper
the celestial regions as the abode of wherewithal
God or the gods : the heavens. n whippet
The hymn that begins “Hark! The / S(h)we(E)rwDTLOl /
herald angels sing” was originally E+E+E
written as “Hark how all the welkin financial resources : money.
rings.” Everyone was surprised that Jake
wellaway had the wherewithal to buy a
sailboat.
welterweight
wherry
wharf
whetstone
Page 344 of 349

whippoorwill whistleable wickiup
n adj n
/ S(h)wipE(r)Twil / / ShwisElEbEl / / SwikGTEp /
imit E + Ecf Sac, Fox, & Kickapoo
a nocturnal bird of the eastern capable of being whistled. a hut used by Native Americans
United States and Canada that is Rufus could botch up even the most that is typically elliptical in form
seldom seen although its call is whistleable tune. and has a rough frame covered by
often heard at nightfall or just reed mats or grass.
before dawn. whodunit As they constructed the wickiup, the
At camp Nick recorded the call of a n campers were careful to leave a
whippoorwill. / hVSdEnDt / hole in the top for campfire smoke
E to escape.
whirligig a detective story or a mystery story
n presented as a novel, a play, or a widget
/ ShwErlETgig / motion picture. n
E The whodunit proved to be the most / SwijDt /
a child’s toy having a whirling or popular play at the summer theater. E
spinning motion. an unnamed article considered for
Sandy bought a whirligig at the wholesale purposes of hypothetical example
dime store. adv as the typical product of a
/ ShPlTsCl / company.
whirlwind E On Trudy’s graph, each star
n in a manner of, relating to, or represents one widget.
/ ShwErlTwind / engaged in the sale of goods or
Scand > E + E commodities in quantity for resale. width
a small rotating windstorm of Juliana purchased several store
limited extent. fixtures wholesale. wince
A whirlwind is sometimes called a
“dust devil.” wholesome winsome
whisk adj adj
n / ShPlsEm / / Swin(t)sEm /
/ Shwisk / E E
Scand > E promoting health of body : health- pleasant because of cheer, childlike
a small usually wire kitchen giving. nature, and open candor.
implement used for hand beating of Ellie sometimes ate junk food The little tyke’s winsome smile won
food (as eggs, cream, or potatoes). rather than the wholesome lunch him many friends.
Rose used a whisk to beat the egg her mother had made for her.
whites into a stiff froth. wintriness
whorlywort
whisperer n wirrah
n / ShwO(E)rlGTwErt /
/ ShwispErE(r) / E wiseacre
E a tall perennial herb—called also
one that speaks softly with the aim “Culver’s root.” wisent
of preserving secrecy. Darnell bought a hand-colored n
Reverend Loomis scanned the engraving of a whorlywort at the / SvGTzent /
congregation in vain, searching for auction. G
the whisperer. a European bison.
whortleberry The advance of European
whist n civilization drove the wisent to the
n / ShwErtFlTberG / brink of extinction; it survived
/ Shwist / E mainly by breeding in zoos.
imit E a sweet edible European blueberry.
a four-player card game from The unripe whortleberry was too
which bridge evolved. sour for Vernon to eat.
In learning to play whist, Carole
found it helpful to make a chart of
its similarities to bridge.
Page 345 of 349

withernam woebegone wreckage
n adj n
/ SwiLE(r)TnBm / / SwPbGTgOn / / Srekij /
E>F>E E Scand > AF > E
the action of taking by way of exhibiting a condition of suffering, something that has been reduced to
reprisal : a second or reciprocal sorrow, or misery. a ruinous state by
distress of other goods in lieu of The teacher looked up at 20 violence : the remains of a wreck.
goods taken by a first distress. woebegone faces staring at the Cleaning up the wreckage from the
Jeff discouraged Larry from going essay question. tornado would take money as well
through with the planned as time.
withernam by saying “Two wrongs woebegoneness
don’t make a right.” wren
witloof wok
n n wrestle
/ SwitTlPf / / SwBk / v
D Chin / SresEl /
chicory; also : its crown of foliage [has near homonym: walk] a bowl- E
as a salad green. shaped cooking utensil used [has near homonym: rustle]
Emily decided to vary her salad by especially in the preparation of contend by grappling with and
using witloof instead of lettuce. Chinese food. striving to trip or throw down an
Lydia received an electric wok as a opponent.
witticism housewarming gift. Inspired by the championship
n match they saw on television,
/ SwiZETsizEm / wolveboon Bobby and Alan began to wrestle
E on the living room floor.
a clever or amusing expression. womp
The careful use of a witticism in wretched
Kevin’s speech helped hold the wondrous adj
attention of his listeners. / SrechDd /
worrisome E
wizardry squalid, dismal, foul.
n wraith After the flood, the whole
/ SwizE(r)drG / n neighborhood looked wretched.
E / SrCth /
magic skill : sorcery, witchcraft. unknown wriggle
Merlin practiced his wizardry at an apparition of the exact likeness v
the court of King Arthur. of a living person seen usually just / SrigEl /
before that person’s death. G? > E
wizen The wraith of a person shortly to move the body or a bodily part to
die is a firm article in the creed of and fro with short writhing motions
wobbulator Scottish superstition. like a worm.
n Zakia was startled when she saw a
/ SwBbyETlCZE(r) / wrangler snake wriggle through the tall
G + Ecf grass.
a testing device for radio sets in wrasse
which the frequency is varied writhe
periodically and automatically over wreak v
a predetermined range. / SrIL /
The primary function of a wreath E
wobbulator is broadcast receiver n move or proceed with twists and
testing. / SrGJ / turns.
E Silently, we watched a seven-foot
a coronet, band, or fillet of boa constrictor writhe through the
intertwined flowers or leaves worn trees.
or bestowed as a mark of honor or
victory or symbol of esteem.
The figure on the vase wearing a
laurel wreath is identified as
Apollo.
Page 346 of 349

wunderkind xerocolous xylophone
n adj n
/ SvUndE(r)Tkint / / zDSrBkElEs / / SzIlETfPn /
G Gk > L + L + Ecf Gk + Gk
a child prodigy : one who succeeds thriving in a relatively dry a musical instrument consisting of
in a competitive or highly difficult environment. a series of wooden bars graduated
field or profession at an early age. The xerocolous plants of the desert in length and sounded by striking
Mozart, a famous wunderkind, generally have roots that penetrate with two small wooden hammers.
wrote complicated sonatas at the deeply into the soil to obtain Many African musical instruments
age of five. moisture. are variations of the xylophone.
xanthic xerosis xylophonist

adj n
/ Szan(t)thik / / zDSrPsDs / xylotomy
Gk Gk
of a flower : colored with some tint abnormal dryness of the skin. xystus
of yellow. Xerosis can be an indication of an
The forsythia rivals the daffodil for underlying health problem. yacht
being the loveliest xanthic bloom in
Cynthia’s garden. xerostomia yachtsman
n n
xanthism / TzirESstPmGE / / SyBtsmEn /
Gk G>D+E
xanthoma abnormal dryness of the mouth due [Note: Plural form is pronounced
n to insufficient secretions. identically.] a person who owns or
/ zanSthPmE / Xerostomia was one of the drug’s sails a boat used for pleasure, as for
Gk side effects. racing or cruising.
a condition that is marked by the Mike fancied himself a true
development (as on the eyelids, xylem yachtsman after one week at sea.
neck, or back) of irregular yellow n
patches or nodules. / SzIlDm / yammer
High cholesterol or triglyceride Gk
levels can be factors in causing a complex tissue in the vascular yannigan
xanthoma. system of higher plants.
The xylem of a tree functions Yarborough
xenocentric chiefly in conduction of sap but n
also performs a structural and / SyBr(T)bErE /
xenogamy storage role. E name
n a hand in bridge or whist
/ zDSnBgEmG / xyloglyphy containing no card higher than a
Gk nine.
fertilization by cross-pollination; xylograph Gene was not sure how to signal to
especially : cross-pollination n his bridge partner that he held a
between flowers on different / SzIlETgraf / Yarborough.
plants. Gk
Xenogamy may occur by wind or by an engraving on wood. yardage
bees carrying pollen from plant to A Chinese xylograph of a bull
plant while feeding on nectar. decorated the restaurant wall. yarrow
xenophobia xylography yawl
xylophagous yearn
xylophilous
Page 347 of 349

yeast yoga zaibatsu
n n n pl
/ SyGst / / SyPgE / / zISbBt(T)sV /
E Skt Jpn
a substance used in baking and the union of the individual self with the the powerful financial and
fermentation of alcoholic beverages universal spirit. industrial conglomerates of Japan.
: leaven. The teacher explained that through Keiko intended that her electronics
The sourdough bread recipe called years of mental and physical company become one of the
for two packages of yeast. exercise, she had been able to zaibatsu.
attain a complete yoga.
yeasty zapateado
yokel n
yenta n / TzBpEtGSB(T)dP /
n / SyPkEl / Sp
/ SyentE / imit E a rhythmic stamping or tapping
Yiddish an unpolished, naïve, or gullible step characteristic of Spanish
one that meddles. inhabitant of a rural area or of a dancing.
Evelyn’s children laughingly refer small town. Juliana needs practice in
to her as a yenta when she tries to The pool hustler disguised himself zapateado before she can take
set them up on blind dates. as a yokel to lure unsuspecting advanced flamenco classes.
victims.
yeoman zeal
yore n
yeomanry n / SzGl /
n / SyP(E)r / Gk > L > E
/ SyPmEnrG / E impassioned eagerness.
E [has homonym: your] time past Russell entered into his new job
the whole body of small farmers and especially long since past. with great zeal.
who cultivate their own land; Adam’s favorite books contain
specifically : the body of small stories about knights of yore. zealot
landed proprietors of the middle
class. youngster zealous
Among the legal privileges of the
yeomanry was the right to serve as youthfully zebra
a juror.
yowl zeitgeber
yewberry n
ytterbium / StsItTgCbEr /
yield G
v yttrium an environmental agent or event
/ SyGld / n that provides the stimulus for
E / SitrGEm / setting or resetting the biological
agree to accept or comply with Sw geog name clock of an organism.
something : exhibit willingness a trivalent metallic element usually Frederick used a zeitgeber
rather than opposition. included among the rare-earth consisting of his bedroom lamp
Sarah looks forward to the day metals. hooked to a timer prior to his trip
when she will not have to yield to Yttrium is one of the elements used and was able to avoid severe jetlag.
her parents’ wishes. in making lasers.
zenith
ylem yule n
/ SzGnDth /
yuletide Ar > Sp > L > F > E
the point of culmination : peak,
zaguan summit.
Winning the Faculty Award was the
zenith of Stephanie’s college
career.
Page 348 of 349

zephyr zodiacal zwieback
n adj n
/ SzefE(r) / / zPSdIEkEl / / SswGTbak /
Gk Gk G
a soft warm breeze from the west. of, relating to, or within the zodiac. a usually sweetened bread enriched
The gentle zephyr was not sufficient Jessica has a pendant in the shape with eggs that is first prepared and
to keep Renee’s kite airborne. of Pisces, her zodiacal symbol. baked and then sliced and toasted
until dry and crisp.
zeppelin zoning Liza placed a slice of zwieback on
n the baby’s tray.
/ Szep(E)lDn / zoological
G name zygosis
a rigid airship. zoophilist
Olga’s dream was to ride in a n zymology
zeppelin one day. / zPSBfElDst /
Gk + Gk + Ecf
zeugma a lover of animals; especially : a
n person concerned with the rights of
/ SzVgmE / lower animals and their protection
Gk from abuse.
the use of a word in the same The noted zoophilist explained how
construction with two adjacent deforestation is endangering
words in the context with only one several species of mammals and
of which it is appropriate in sense. birds.
The statement “John upset the
table and his mother” is, one would zootechny
hope, a zeugma.
zucchetto
zigzaggedness n
n / zVSkeZ(T)P /
/ zigSzagDdnDs / L > It
G? > F + Ecff a small round skullcap worn by
the quality or state of having short Roman Catholic ecclesiastics in
sharp turns or angles. colors that vary according to the
An aerial photograph revealed the rank of the wearer.
zigzaggedness of the mountain In public appearances, the pope
road. usually wears a white cassock and
zucchetto.
zircon
n zucchini
/ SzErTkBn / n
It > F > G / zVSkGnG /
a mineral occurring in brown or It
grayish square prisms or sometimes a slender green summer squash.
in transparent forms which are used Tim picked a large zucchini from
as gems. his garden.
The zircon in Wendy’s ring looks
very much like a diamond. zugzwang
n
zoanthropy / StsVkTtsfBN /
G
zodiac the necessity of moving in chess
when it is to one’s disadvantage.
Valerie forced the grandmaster into
zugzwang.
Page 349 of 349

2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency
aardvark abide ablutions
v n pl
abactor / ESbId / / ESblVshEnz /
E L>F>E
abaft [Note: The definition provided is the washing of one’s body or part
not the one most commonly of it.
abandon associated with this word.] atone Carl nodded to Ivar, who was
for : pay for : suffer for. making his morning ablutions at
abandonedly Dale fears he will have to abide the pump.
adv last night’s eating binge.
/ ESbandEn(d)lG / abnegate
F > E + Ecf Abidjan
in a manner free from constraint. adj abnegation
It is well to live abandonedly from / SabETjBn / n
time to time. Afr geog name / TabnGSgCshEn /
of or relating to Abidjan, capital of L
abasement the Ivory Coast from 1934 until renunciation or denial.
1983. Monasticism involves the
abatis Nell tuned to CNN to get the latest disciplining, limitation, or
on the Abidjan protest. abnegation of the material aspects
abbatial of human life.
abience
abducent n abnormal
/ SabGEn(t)s / adj
abduction L / abSnOrmEl /
n [has near homonym: adience] L
/ abSdEkshEn / tendency to withdraw from a differing from the typical.
L stimulus object or situation. In modern society, many people
the action of carrying (a person) off Claudia’s painfully shy brother consider it abnormal to live without
by force. gave a perfect illustration of e-mail.
The abduction of Helen by Paris abience at the school assembly.
led to the Trojan War. aboard
abjoint adv
abecedarian / ESbP(E)rd /
ablation E
abendmusik n on or within a ship, railway car, or
/ aSblCshEn / passenger vehicle.
aberrance L Spotting dorsal fins in the distance,
[has near homonym: oblation] Jeff swam back to the sailboat and
aberrancy lowering of a land surface by wind pulled himself aboard.
erosion or weathering agents.
aberrational Warming of polar seas leads to abolitionists
ablation of the ice caps. n pl
abetting / TabESlishEnDsts /
ablaze L + Ecff
abhorred adj advocates of doing away with
v / ESblCz / completely; specifically : advocates
/ EbShO(E)rd / E+E of doing away with slavery.
L radiant with light or bright color. African captives from the slave ship
detested extremely : loathed. Soren’s yard was ablaze with Amistad, aided by American
In the 60s many young people lighted Christmas trees. abolitionists in a two-year legal
abhorred the thought of going to battle, were eventually freed.
war.
abominate
abhorrent
aborted
Page 1 of 289
abranchiate abundant acarian
adj adj
/ CSbraNkGDt / abusive / ESka(a)rGEn /
Gk Gk > L
lacking gills. abusively of, relating to, caused by, or having
Salamanders develop into an the characteristics of a mite or tick.
abranchiate form as they mature. abustle Acarian parasites have saclike
bodies unbroken by segments.
abrogate abutment
acceded
abrupt abyss v
/ akSsGdEd /
abscission abyssal L
[has near homonym: exceeded]
absentmindedly Abyssinian expressed approval or gave
adv adj consent.
/ SabsEntTmIndDdlG / / TabESsinGEn / Jan was glad when Mrs. Taft
L > F > E + E + Ecff E Afr geog name readily acceded to the proposal
in a manner preoccupied to the of or relating to Ethiopia. that the two parties attend the event
point of failure to respond to Paul collects Abyssinian tapestry. together.
ordinary demands on the attention.
Sal absentmindedly dunked his academe accent
doughnut in his orange juice. n
/ SakETdGm / accentuate
absolute Gk > L v
environment associated with a / akSsenchETwCt /
absolutely school especially of higher L
adv learning. give special attention to :
/ TabsESlVtlG / Joe is at ease with everyone but emphasize.
L prefers the company of those who The columns of the Egyptian temple
in a manner that is not dependent are familiar with the halls of accentuate its height.
on anything else. academe.
The tall, rectangular buildings acceptable
were absolutely plain: Each academician
window and each entrance were n acceptably
exactly like every other. / TakEdDSmishEn /
Gk > L access
absolutize one (as a professor or student) that
is associated with or a member of acciaccatura
absolve an institution of learning (as a
university). accipitrine
absorbefacient Dr. Holtzclaw is the oldest
academician on campus. acclaim
absorbent
academy acclimated
absorption
acanthus acclivitous
abstemiously n
/ ESkan(t)thEs / accommodation
abstergent Gk
[Note: Could be confused with
abstract adjective acanthous.] any plant of a
genus of prickly herbs of the
abstraction Mediterranean region whose broad
leaves are frequently represented in
abstrusity sculptured architectural ornaments.
The column’s capital featured
absurd ornamentation representing the
leaves of an acanthus.
Page 2 of 289
accompaniment accredited acetaldehyde
n n
/ ESkEmp(E)nGmEnt / accretion / TasEZSaldEThId /
L>F>E ISV + [Ar > Sp > L + Gk > L > G]
an instrumental or vocal part accretionary L + L + Gk)
subordinate to and designed to adj a colorless volatile water-soluble
support, amplify, or complement a / ESkrGshETnerG / liquid aldehyde of pungent odor
principal voice or instrument. L used chiefly in the production of
The chant followed a single marked by or involving addition or organic compounds.
melodic line with no instrumental accumulation. Acetaldehyde is often used in the
accompaniment. The accretionary hypothesis states manufacture of acetic acid.
that Earth has gradually grown
accompany larger over time because of the acetaminophen
influx of meteorites and dust n
accomplish particles from space. / ETsGZESminEfDn /
ISV
accordance acculturate a crystalline compound used in
medicine instead of aspirin to
accordion acculturation relieve pain and fever.
n John took acetaminophen to relieve
accost / ETkElchESrCshEn / his headache.
L + L + Lcf
accostable a process of continuous acetic
transmission of traits and elements adj
accosted between diverse peoples, resulting / ESsGZik /
v in new and blended patterns. L>F
/ ESkOstDd / The Spanish conquest of Mexico [Note: One of alternate
L was followed by a period of pronunciations has homonym:
approached and spoke to. acculturation. ascetic.] relating to or producing a
Mr. Weston immediately accosted colorless liquid acid with a pungent
Emma with questions about her accumbent odor constituting the chief acid of
health. adj vinegar.
/ ESkEmbEnt / Morris enjoyed teasing his mom by
accouchement L accusing her of putting acetic acid
n leaning or reclining especially at in his food.
/ TaTkVshSmBM / meals.
F Harriet ridiculed her brother’s acetone
lying-in; especially : parturition : a accumbent posture as he ate a TV n
state attending and consequent to dinner. / SasETtPn /
childbirth. L>G
Many insurance companies require accuracy a volatile fragrant flammable liquid
that hospitals limit the period of made by dehydrogenation of
accouchement to 24 hours. accustomed isopropyl alcohol or by bacterial
adj fermentation and used chiefly as a
account / ESkEstEmd / solvent.
L>F>E The simplest ketone is acetone, a
accountant in the habit or custom : established pleasant-smelling liquid that is
n in the practice. used mainly as a solvent for
/ ESkaUntFnt / John was becoming quite organic compounds.
F accustomed to being called “Jack”
one skilled in the practice of by his friends.
classifying, recording, and
summarizing business and financial acedia
transactions and analyzing,
verifying, and reporting the results. acerbic
Every April Rhonda vows to hire an
accountant to figure her next year’s
taxes.
Page 3 of 289
acharya acidulous acquiesced
n v
/ BSchBryE / aciniform / TakwGSest /
Skt adj L>F
a Hindu religious teacher : one / ESsinETfOrm / accepted or complied tacitly or
versed in the sacred writings of the L + Ecf passively.
Hindus. shaped like a cluster of grapes. Until recently, Scott acquiesced in
The acharya wrote a book in which At the top of each column there was most situations involving conflict.
he offered some innovative insights a crude, aciniform pattern.
into the Bhagavad-Gita. acquire
acknowledged
achieve v acrimony
/ ikSnBlijd /
achievement E acrobatic
conceded to be real or true : adj
achievements admitted. / TakrESbaZik /
“That may be true,” he Gk > F
Achillean acknowledged, “but it’s completely performed with body contortions or
adj accurate, and as long as the tossing of one dancer by a partner.
/ TakESlGEn / answer is right, who cares if the Yasuko and Hiromi easily won the
Gk name question is wrong?” dance contest with their acrobatic
[has homonym: achilleine] like aclinal version of the tango.
Achilles, hero of Homer’s Iliad (as
in strength, invincibility, or moody acne acrocyanosis
and resentful wrath). n
Troy’s approach in games is so acoelous / TakrPTsIESnPsDs /
Achillean that no one wants to play adj Gk
with him. / CSsGlEs / a disorder of the arterioles of the
Ecf + Gk + Ecf exposed parts of the hands and feet
achromatic lacking a true stomach or digestive intensified by exposure to cold and
tract. resulting in bluish mottled skin.
achy It is difficult to think of acoelous Jane had acute acrocyanosis after
creatures like the sponge as being being stranded on the snowy hiking
acid truly living creatures. trail for hours.
n
/ SasDd / acoluthic acrolect
L n
a compound capable of reacting acotyledon / SakrETlekt /
with a base to form a salt, n Gk + Gk
reddening litmus, and evolving / TCTkBZFlSGZFn / the most prestigious language
hydrogen on reaction with certain Gk > L > F variety of a community.
metals (as iron, zinc, tin). a plant without seed leaves. The British acrolect is defined by
The formula for every inorganic The fern is a typical acotyledon. the speech of the royal family.
acid contains one or more
hydrogen atoms as well as an acoustic acrolectal
anionic group.
acoustical acrophobia
acidify n
acquaint / TakrESfPbGE /
acidosis Gk
n acquainted abnormal fear of being at a great
/ TasESdPsDs / height.
L + Gk > L Because of his acrophobia, Murray
a condition of decreased alkalinity stayed at the bottom while the rest
of the blood and tissues. of his class went to the top of the
James was rushed to the emergency Empire State Building.
room, where he learned that he was
suffering from acidosis. across
Page 4 of 289
acrotarsium adaptability adiabatic
adj
acrylics adaptable / TadGESbaZik /
n pl Gk
/ ESkriliks / addax occurring without loss or gain of
(L + Gk + Ecf) > ISV n heat by the substance concerned.
paints in which the vehicle is a / SaTdaks / Thermos bottles provide temporary
glasslike thermoplastic. L adiabatic storage of hot or cold
Judy enjoys going to the art supply a large light-colored antelope of beverages.
store and shopping for new tubes of northern Africa, Arabia, and Syria
acrylics. that has long spiraling horns. adios
The addax has a remarkable ability interj
actinium to find patches of vegetation in / TBdHSPs /
desert areas. L > Sp
actinotherapy —used to express farewell.
n addendum Amid cries of “adios” the happy
/ TaktE(T)nPStherEpG / couple departed for their
Gk > L additive honeymoon trip.
application for therapeutic purposes
of the chemically active rays of the address adiposity
spectrum.
Actinotherapy was the treatment of addressee adipsia
choice for Aletta’s malady.
adduce adjective
activate
adductor adjournment
activator n
adeciduate / ESjErnmEnt /
actressy L>F>E
adenoiditis the act of putting off further
actuality n proceedings either indefinitely or
n / TadFnTOiSdIZDs / until a later stated time.
/ TakchESwalEZG / Gk Judge Harcourt refused to grant
L inflammation of the enlarged the defendant’s request for an
the act or state of existing in fact or masses of lymphoid tissue at the adjournment and ordered the trial
reality. back of the pharynx. to continue.
In actuality, the threatening The doctor hoped to treat Kyle’s
shadows near the house were only adenoiditis without resorting to adjudication
trees and shrubs. surgery. n
/ ETjVdDSkCshEn /
actuarial adenoids L
a judicial decision or sentence.
acuity adeptly The lawyer explained that
preventive detention is actually
acumination adherend imprisonment without an
n adjudication of guilt.
acute / adShiTrend /
adj L adjustable
/ ESkyVt / one of the bodies held to another by
L a bonding substance such as glue. adjustment
having a sudden onset, sharp rise, The instructions on the package
and short course. said to spread a thin layer of adjutant
Acute appendicitis can be deadly if cement on each adherend and
not diagnosed and treated clamp them together overnight.
immediately.
adhesive
acuteness
adamant
Page 5 of 289
admeasurement adobe adustiosis
n n n
/ adSmezhE(r)mEnt / / ESdPbG / / ETdEstGSPsDs /
L>F>E Copt > Ar > Sp L + Gk
dimensions, size. building material of sun-dried earth a physiological breakdown of the
The canal could handle a ship of and straw. rind of citrus fruit causing a reddish
considerable admeasurement. The hut made of adobe sagged discoloration—called also “red
sideways in the middle of the field. blotch.”
administer All the oranges in the crisper
adolesce suffered from one stage or another
administration of adustiosis.
adolescent
admirable n advancement
/ TadFlSesFnt /
admiralty L advantageously
one that is in the period of life from adv
admirer puberty to maturity terminating / TadTvanStCjEslG /
n legally at the age of majority. L>F>E
/ adSmIrE(r) / As an adolescent, Mike enjoyed in a manner that is favorable,
L outdoor activities with the Boy profitable, beneficial.
one that regards with wondering Scouts. The most advantageously located
esteem accompanied by pleasure cities are often on the banks of
and delight. adoptable rivers.
Long an admirer of Picasso’s art,
Beth looked forward to attending adopted advection
an exhibition of his works. n
adoration / adSvekshEn /
admiringly L
adv adornment the horizontal movement of a mass
/ EdSmI(E)riNlG / of air which causes changes in
L > F + Ecff adrenergic temperature or in other physical
with an elevated feeling of adj properties of air.
pleasure. / TadrESnErjik / The advection of warm, moist air
Marcia gazed admiringly at her L + Gk over a cold surface often causes
newly purchased oil painting. activated by adrenaline. fog.
When her child was threatened,
admissible Claire felt adrenergic strength advenient
surge through her body.
admission adventitious
adroit adj
admissive / Tad(T)vEnStishEs /
adscititious L
admittance coming from another source :
adsorbent added or appended extrinsically
admonish and not sharing original, essential,
v adulation and intrinsic nature.
/ adSmBnish / Researchers have been comparing
L>F adulteration the carcinogenic risks of naturally
express warning or disapproval to occurring and adventitious
about remissness or error. adust substances in food.
Mayor Richards hastened to
admonish the new clerk for her adverbial
poor manners on the telephone.
adversarial
Page 6 of 289
adversaries affectation afghan
n pl n n
/ SadvE(r)TserGz / / TaTfekStCshEn / / SafTgan /
L>F>E L Pashto
ones that contend with, oppose, or manner of speech or behavior not a blanket or shawl of colored wool,
resist. natural to one’s actual personality knitted or crocheted in strips or
Cynthia’s adversaries in the tennis or capabilities. squares which are joined by sewing
tournament were not easily Stuart is the sort of man who or crocheting.
defeated. cultivates his every affectation with Mrs. Campbell knitted a striped
loving care. afghan as a housewarming present
advisable for her new neighbors.
affeer
advising afield
affenpinscher
aerator n aforesaid
/ SafEnTpinchE(r) /
aeroballistics G afoul
a small dog having a stiff red, gray,
aerobatics or black coat; pointed ears; and Afrikaans
bushy eyebrows, chin tuft, and n
aerodynamics mustache. / SafrDTkBn(t)s /
Erica’s affenpinscher escaped L>D
aerophobia when she opened the door. a language that developed in
southern Africa from 17th-century
aerophone afferent Dutch and is one of the official
n languages of the Republic of South
/ Sa(E)rPTfPn / affination Africa.
Gk The South African president gave
a wind instrument. affix his inaugural address in Afrikaans.
A thin plate of birch bark used as v
an instrument is technically / ESfiks / afterglow
described as an aerophone with a L n
tongue but without a soundboard. attach physically, as with nails or / SaftE(r)TglP /
glue. E+E
aeroplankton Joanne asked the janitor to affix the the light especially in the western
n bulletin board to the wall of her sky after sunset.
/ Sa(E)rETplaNktEn / new classroom. Pike’s Peak stood out majestic and
Gk + Gk beautiful in the afterglow.
small airborne organisms (as flying affixed
insects). against
The backyard barbecue was almost affliction
spoiled by pesky aeroplankton. n agalloch
/ ESflikshEn / n
Aesculapian L / ESgalEk /
adj a state of pain, distress, or grief. Dravidian > Gk
/ TeskyESlCpGEn / John Addison wrote that some the soft resinous wood of an East
Gk name virtues are seen only in affliction. Indian tree that is burnt as a
of or belonging to Aesculapius, the perfume.
Greco-Roman god of medicine, or affrighted A small piece of agalloch
the healing art. adj smoldered outside the Buddhist
The Aesculapian staff is the official / aSfrIZDd / temple.
insignia of the American Medical E
Association. seized with sudden and great fear
approaching terror.
The hair of the affrighted cat
bristled.
Page 7 of 289
agathism agitation ahimsa
n n n
/ SagETthizEm / / TajEStCshEn / / EShimTsB /
Gk L Skt
the doctrine that all things tend the persistent and sustained attempt the doctrine of refraining from the
toward ultimate good. to arouse public feeling or harming of others or the taking of
Whereas optimism holds that all influence public opinion (as by life.
things are now for the best, appeals, discussions, or Mahatma Gandhi went from village
agathism maintains that somehow demonstrations). to village trying to restore peace,
things will be good in the end. A long agitation for national preaching ahimsa.
independence, not a sudden revolt,
aged severed the country’s ties with its aiguille
motherland.
agency aiguillette
agnomen
aggrandize n aioli
/ agSnPmEn / n
aggrandizing L / SITPlG /
v an additional name or epithet. L > Prov
/ ESgranTdIziN / Richard gets testy when people use a sauce made of crushed garlic, egg
L>F the agnomen the Lion-Hearted yolks, olive oil, and lemon juice
making appear great or greater : along with his given name. and sometimes potato.
exalting. In the Mediterranean region, aioli
Aggrandizing himself at every agonic is served with fish and potatoes :
opportunity, Seth sees no value in garlic mayonnaise.
humility. agonize
v airsickness
aggressor / SagETnIz /
n Gk > L > F airstream
/ ESgresE(r) / endure torture, pain, or anguish. n
L Before the new pain medication / Sa(a)(E)rTstrGm /
one that commits or practices an was available, Alicia would Gk + E
offensive action or procedure; agonize with her migraine a current of air : wind; especially :
especially : a nation that commits headaches for several days at a a high-velocity wind at high
an unprovoked overt hostile attack. time. altitude.
America is fortunate to be bordered Flying in the same direction as an
by no nation that desires to be an agora airstream increases an airplane’s
aggressor. airspeed appreciably.
agravic
aggrieved aitch
adj agricultural n
/ ESgrGvd / / SCch /
L>F>E agriculture L? > F
troubled or distressed in spirit. the letter h.
When Laurie’s father died, she agrogorod It is surprising in how many words
asked her aggrieved mother to the aitch is silent.
come to live with her. agronome
alarmable
agile agronomist
n alarmist
agility / ESgrBnEmDst /
n L + Gk alas
/ ESjilEZG / a specialist in the branch of
L agriculture that deals with crop alba
quickness and dexterity of production and soil management.
movement. Last summer a Russian agronomist album
Mrs. Case moved with great agility visited Uncle Carl’s farm.
for such an old woman. alcazar
ahem
Page 8 of 289
alcogel Algerian alleviation
adj n
alcoves / alSjirGEn / / ETlGvGSCshEn /
n pl African geog name L
/ SalTkPvz / of, relating to, or characteristic of relief, moderation (as of physical or
Ar > Sp > F Algeria, a country in northwest mental suffering).
recessed parts (as breakfast nooks) Africa. Pat was ready to follow any
of rooms. The Algerian vineyards that were recommendation for alleviation of
Silvio found that the alcoves in the planted under the French colonial her back pain.
library were ideal spots for rule have mostly fallen into ruin.
afternoon naps. alleyway
algometer
aldehyde allied
n alienage adj
/ SaldEThId / / SaTlId /
Ar > Sp > L + Gk > L > G aliphatic L>F
any of a class of very reactive adj joined by treaty or compact.
organic compounds that are / TalESfaZik / The leaders agreed to form an
intermediate in state of oxidation. Gk allied army to defend against any
Cinnamic aldehyde is a high molar of, relating to, or derived from fat. attack on their two countries.
mass aldehyde that has a pleasant Alison’s science fair project was a
odor and is used in the study of the effectiveness of the allonym
manufacture of perfumes. aliphatic compounds used in soap. n
/ SalETnim /
alembic aliveness Gk
n a name that is assumed by an
/ ESlembik / alkalify author but that actually belongs to
Gk > Ar > L > F another person.
an apparatus usually made of glass alkyd For his first novel, Allen
or metal formerly much used in n considered using John Grisham as
distillation. / SalkDd / an allonym.
The sorcerer used an alembic in ISV
concocting the invisibility potion. any of a large group of allot
thermoplastic or thermosetting v
alepidote synthetic resins used chiefly in / ESlot /
n making protective coatings (Gmc + L) > F > E
/ CSlepETdPt / characterized in general by their assign as a share or portion to a
Gk gloss, flexibility, and good particular person or thing or for a
a fish without scales. weathering properties. particular purpose.
The handsaw fish is a deep-sea Alkyd is an important ingredient in When the supervisor made the
alepidote. paint manufacturing. schedule, she failed to allot each
employee time for a morning break.
aleuronat allegation
n allotment
algebraic / TalDSgCshEn /
L allotted
algebraically the act of asserting positively often
adv before a court. allspice
/ TaljESbrCDk(E)lG / Patrick’s allegation that his
Ar > L + Ecff neighbor started the forest fire was allure
in a manner of, relating to, totally unfounded. n
involving, or according to the laws / ESlU(E)r /
of algebra. allegeable L > F + Gmc > F
The area of a rectangle is power of attraction or fascination.
expressed algebraically as “area allegiant The allure of possible immortality
equals length times width.” drove the wizard to study the dark
allegretto side of magic.
alleviate alluring
Page 9 of 289
alternativity alveolar
allusion adj
n altigraph / alSvGElE(r) /
/ ESlVzhEn / n L
L / SaltETgraf / articulated with the tip of the
[has homonym: illusion] an L + Gk tongue touching or near the
implied indication or indirect an instrument that measures height teethridge (as the English
reference. and is equipped with a recording consonant sounds \t\, \d\, and \n\).
Gwen’s essay made much of the mechanism. Constance worked with a speech
author’s use of biblical allusion. Nora stored the readings of the therapist to improve her
altigraph in a folder in her pronunciation of alveolar
allusively backpack. consonants.
adv
/ ESlVsivlG / altimeter always
L +Ecf
implicitly, indirectly. altimetry alyssum
The old parchment mentioned n
treasure so allusively that it was alto / ESlisEm /
not clear whether it was referring Gk > L
to something of actual monetary altocumulus a plant of a genus of European and
value. n Asiatic herbs having small usually
/ Tal(T)tPSkyVmyElEs / yellow flowers.
alluvial L+L Elvira’s flagstone walk was
a fleecy cloud or cloud formation bordered with sweet alyssum.
alluvium consisting of large whitish globular
cloudlets with shaded portions. amalgamation
ally The altocumulus consisted mostly n
of small, supercold water droplets. / ETmalgESmCshEn /
alogia Ar > L > F
altricial the action or process of uniting or
aloha adj combining into a uniform and
/ alStrishEl / independent whole.
alpestrine L In the 13th century King Edward I
having the young hatched in a very effected the amalgamation of Wales
alphabetical immature and helpless condition so with England.
as to require care for some time.
alphanumerical Parrots are altricial birds, and amandine
adj their mortality rate is often high if adj
/ TalfETn(y)VSmerDkEl / breeders do not pay close attention / TBmEnSdGn /
Gk + L + Ecff to detail. Gk > L > F
consisting of both letters and [Note: Could be confused with
numbers and often other symbols alum almandine and amandin.] prepared
as well. or served with almonds.
Because she used two separate aluminotype Gail made salmon with mashed
alphanumerical codes, Georgia potatoes and green beans
made many mistakes. aluminous amandine for her dinner party.
alpine aluminum amantadine
alternate alumnus amaranth

n
alternative / SamETran(t)th /
n Gk
/ OlStErnEZiv / a dark reddish purple.
L Justin wanted to buy a green sofa,
one of a number of things or but his wife preferred to decorate
courses offered for choice. the living room in amaranth and
One alternative to confusion is beige.
proper organization.
Page 10 of 289
amaranthine ambrette amiably
n adv
amaretto / SamTbret / / SCmGEblG /
F L>F
amateurish a French dessert pear having a in a friendly, sociable, and
adj musky odor. congenial manner.
/ TamEStErish / The featured dessert at Le Chateau “Hello, students,” Mr. Perry said,
L > F + Ecf Rouge was poached ambrette with and he amiably gave each child a
lacking professional finish. whipped cream. handshake.
Sandy refused to pay for the
wedding photographer’s ambulance amidol
amateurish work.
ameliorable amigo
amathophobia n
amenities / ESmG(T)gP /
Amazon n pl L > Sp
n / ESmenEZGz / friend.
/ SamETzBn / L Roger has been John’s amigo since
Gk things that conduce to physical or grade school.
one of a race or nation of female material comfort or convenience or
warriors usually associated with to a pleasant and agreeable life. ammoniacal
Scythia or Asia Minor with whom The timeshare resort’s adj
the ancient Greeks of mythology maintenance fee nearly doubled / TamESnIEkEl /
repeatedly warred. with the addition of several Gk > L
Penthesileia was an Amazon who amenities. of, relating to, containing, or
fought on the side of the Trojans in having the properties of ammonia.
the Trojan War and was killed by amenity A strong ammoniacal odor
Achilles. emanated from the laboratory.
amerce
amazonite ammunition
amercement
ambassador n amnesty
/ ESmErsmEnt / n
ambidexterity F > AF > E / SamnDstG /
n the infliction of a penalty at the Gk
/ TamTbEdekSsterEZG / discretion of the court; also : the the act of an authority (as a
L penalty thus imposed. government) by which general
the quality or state of being capable For the officer’s neglect of duty the pardon of an offense is granted.
of using both hands with equal court imposed an amercement of The new president granted amnesty
ease. two weeks’ pay. to all imprisoned draft evaders.
The quarterback’s ambidexterity
came in handy on many occasions amethysts amontillado
during yesterday’s game. n pl
/ SamEthEsts / amorphous
ambient Gk > L > F > E adj
[Note: Could be confused with / ESmOrfEs /
ambiguous singular form.] specimens of a clear Gk
purple or bluish violet variety of being without real or apparent
ambitious crystallized quartz much used as a crystalline form.
jeweler’s stone. Glass is an amorphous solid that in
amble The jeweler emptied a small bag of some ways is more like a liquid
n amethysts on a velvet pad, and than a solid.
/ SambEl / Anna selected the one she liked
L best. amount
an easygoing or leisurely walking
movement.
If you are in a hurry, you had
better not go at an amble.
Page 11 of 289
ampere amyotonia analogous
n n
/ SamTpi(E)r / / TCTmIEStPnGE / analysis
F name Gk
the practical meter-kilogram- deficiency of muscle tone. analyze
second unit of electric current that The doctor recommended physical v
is equivalent to a flow of 1 therapy for the bedridden patient / SanFlTIz /
coulomb per second or to the afflicted with amyotonia. Gk > L + Ecf
steady current produced by 1 volt weigh or study (various aspects,
applied across a resistance of 1 amyotrophic factors, or elements) in order to
ohm. arrive at an answer, result, or
Brian’s calculations show that the anaclastic solution.
circuit has a current of 1 ampere. Deanne needed more information
anacoluthon before she could analyze the lab
amphichrome n report.
/ TanEkESlVTthBn /
amphitheater Gk anamnesis
syntactical inconsistency or n
ample incoherence within a sentence. / anEmSnGsDs /
adj Anacoluthon can make dialogue Gk
/ SampEl / sound more natural. a recalling to mind : reminiscence.
L The musical comedy was based on
[has near homonyms: ampul, anacreontic an anamnesis of the author’s days
ampule, ampoule] marked by n on a South Pacific island.
extensive or more than adequate / ETnakrGSBntik /
size. Gk name Ananias
Wilma enjoyed her walks in the a poem in imitation of or in the n
cathedral’s ample gardens. manner of Anacreon : a drinking / TanESnIEs /
song or light lyric. Christian name
ampliate Mr. Maclean included an liar.
adj anacreontic in the collection of The little boy who cried “Wolf!” is
/ SamplGDt / verse. a famous Ananias.
L
widened, enlarged. anadiplosis anaphylaxis
Carina prefers the new ampliate n n
sidewalks downtown because there / TanEdDSplPsDs / / TanEfDSlaksDs /
is plenty of room for her Gk Gk
wheelchair. repetition of a prominent word, hypersensitivity (as to foreign
usually the last in a phrase, clause, proteins or drugs) that is marked by
amplifier sentence, or verse, at the beginning a tendency to intense systemic
of the next phrase, clause, sentence, reaction.
amplify or verse. Fortunately, Daphne exhibited no
Anne read the second member of symptoms of anaphylaxis after she
amplitude the anadiplosis louder than the first was stung by a bee.
n for emphasis.
/ SamplETtVd / anaptyxis
L anadromous n
the extent of a vibratory movement adj / TanTEpStiksDs /
or of an oscillation. / ESnadrEmEs / Gk
Titus carefully noted any variations Gk the insertion of an extra vowel in
in the amplitude of the sine waves. of fish : ascending rivers from the the body of a word.
sea at certain seasons for breeding. An example of anaptyxis is the
amply The anadromous salmon is a pronunciation of the word athlete
wonder of nature. as “athalete.”
amputee anaqua
anagram
amyelonic anarchic
anallobar
amylaceous anathematize
Page 12 of 289
anatocism andragogy anemotropism
n n n
/ ESnaZETsizEm / / SandrETgBjG / / TanESmBtrETpizEm /
Gk > L Gk + Gk Gk + Gk
compound interest : the taking of the art or science of teaching an involuntary reaction by an insect
compound interest. adults. to a current of air in its
At the seminar the business Mary Lynn’s skill in andragogy environment.
students discussed simple interest, was due to her experience as a high An example of anemotropism is
anatocism, and the basics of school teacher. when flies poise for flight facing the
investing. wind.
androgynism
anatomy anent
n androgynous
/ ESnaZEmG / adj anfractuous
Gk / anSdrBjEnEs /
a branch of biology that deals with Gk + Gk + Ecf angelfish
the form and structure of animals. having the characteristics of both
The two cadavers delivered to the sexes. anger
lab were designated for use by Dr. This fall’s androgynous fashions
Wheeler’s class in anatomy. don’t appeal to Sharon. angiitis
ancestral android angina

adj n
/ anSsestrEl / / SanTdrOid / anglophilia
L>F Gk n
of or belonging to an ancestor or an automaton of human form. / TaNglPSfilGE /
ancestors. Rolf was cast as an android in the L + Gk
Carmen visited Romania to explore college’s spring production. particular unreasoned admiration of
her ancestral heritage. or partiality for England or English
anechoic ways.
ancestry adj After one trip abroad, Grace was
/ TanESkPik / seized by anglophilia and moved to
anchor Gk London.
n free from echoes and
/ SaNkE(r) / reverberations. angora
Gk > L > E Stereo speakers are tested in an
something that serves to hold an anechoic chamber designed to angrily
object firmly. absorb all stray sounds.
Because the day was windy, Sarah angstroms
brought a heavy rock to act as an anemology n pl
anchor for the picnic cloth. n / SaNztrEmz /
/ TanESmBlEjG / Sw name
anchorage Gk + Gk units of wavelength, each equal to a
the study of winds. 10-billionth of a meter.
anchored In his meteorology class Mike Sandy determined that the laser’s
learned how anemology helps to wavelength measured 5,200
ancient explain the effects of winds on the angstroms.
weather.
ancipital anguished
anemometry adj
andiron / SaNgwisht /
L>F>E
andradite produced, affected, or accompanied
by excruciating distress.
Charities throughout the country
sent aid to the anguished victims of
the hurricane.
Page 13 of 289
angwantibo ankylosaur annularity
n n n
/ aNS(g)wBntETbP / / SaNkElPTsO(E)r / / TanyESlarEZG /
Efik Gk + Gk L > F + Ecf
a small lemur of western Africa any of a suborder of heavily the state or form of a ring.
having a rather long snout and a armored Cretaceous dinosaurs Photographs of the solar eclipse
rudimentary tail. somewhat resembling immense showed the halo-like annularity of
The angwantibo feeds mainly on horned toads in shape. the Sun’s disk.
caterpillars. The ankylosaur, a herbivore, fed on
low shrubbery. anoia
anhedonia
n annals anoint
/ TanhGSdPnGE /
Gk annates anorak
incapacity for experiencing
happiness. annelid anorexic
Soren’s anhedonia might be the n
result of a miserable childhood. / SanFlDd / ansa
L>F>L n
anhinga any of a phylum of usually / SansE /
elongated segmented invertebrate L
aniconic animals (as earthworms and part of a celestial body having the
leeches) having a body cavity. appearance of a handle (as the
animadversion The earthworm is probably the projecting part of Saturn’s rings).
n most familiar example of an Photographs from Voyager 2
/ TanETmadSvErzhEn / annelid. revealed the planet’s ansa in
L striking detail.
criticism that is usually adverse and annexation
prompted by some degree of n answerer
hostility. / TaTnekSsCshEn /
The traditionally negative reviewer L>F antagonist
had little animadversion in his the act of taking possession or n
column this week. control of. / anStagEnDst /
The annexation of Texas by the Gk + L
animadversions United States in 1845 was one of the principal opponent or foil of the
n pl the causes of the Mexican War. main character in a drama or
/ TanETmadSvErzhEnz / narrative.
L announcer The Joker proved to be a cunning
censorious remarks or observations. n but overconfident antagonist for
The movie received so many / ESnaUn(t)sE(r) / Batman.
animadversions in preliminary L>F>E
reviews that the producer decided a person who introduces television antebellum
to revamp it. or radio programs, makes
commercial announcements, or antecedence
animate gives station identification.
The game show contestant waited antedate
animus nervously for the announcer to
n introduce her. anteing
/ SanEmEs /
L annoy
intention or objective.
The promise of free land was the
animus that drove many Americans
to move west in the 19th century.
Page 14 of 289
antennae anthropologist anthropopsychism
n pl n n
/ anStenG / / Tan(T)(t)thrESpBlEjDst / / Tan(t)thrETpPSsITkizEm /
L Gk Gk + Gk
the paired movable sensory a specialist in the study considering ascription of a soul like that of
appendages of the head of certain man’s physical character, historical humans to nature or to something
arthropods. and present geographical that governs natural processes.
The bug stopped and wiggled both distribution, racial classification, A perfect example of
of its antennae. group relationships, and cultural anthropopsychism can be found in
history. an old commercial that claimed,
antepenultimate The anthropologist Margaret Mead “You can’t fool Mother Nature.”
adj spent many years studying Pacific antibiotic
/ TantDpDSnEltEmDt / Island societies.
L anticipate
coming before the next to last in anthropology
any series. n anticipation
The antepenultimate question in the / Tan(T)(t)thrESpBlEjG /
game “Who Wants to Be a Gk anticlimax
Millionaire” is worth $250,000. the study considering man’s n
physical character, historical and / TantGSklITmaks /
anthem present geographical distribution, L + Gk
racial classification, group an event (as the last of a series) that
anthesis relationships, and cultural history. is strikingly less important than
n Jody created a poster that what has preceded it.
/ anSthGsDs / highlighted Margaret Mead’s After the climactic duel with the
Gk contributions to anthropology. villain, the hero’s wedding came as
the action or period of opening of a an anticlimax.
flower. anthropomorphic
Time-lapse photography can show adj anticoagulant
the complete anthesis of a rose in a / Tan(t)thrETpPSmOrfik / n
few seconds. Gk / Tan(T)tIkPSagyElEnt /
described or thought of as having L
anthophorous human form or attributes : a substance (as a drug) that hinders
adj ascribing human characteristics to clotting of blood.
/ anSthBfErEs / nonhuman things. The surgeon administered an
Gk Sterling pretends that his cat has anticoagulant after the operation.
flower-bearing. anthropomorphic powers and often
Amy selected several anthophorous talks for her in a tiny, squeaky antidotal
plants to decorate her office. voice. adj
/ TantDSdPZFl /
anthracite anthropophagous Gk
n adj consisting of, suited for, or acting
/ San(t)thrETsIt / / Tan(t)thrESpBfEgEs / as a remedy able to counteract the
Gk Gk + Gk effects of poison.
a hard glossy coal that burns with a [Note: Could be confused with Vomiting is often the body’s
nearly smokeless flame. noun anthropophagus.] feeding on antidotal response to the ingestion
Anthracite was created when soft human flesh : man-eating : of spoiled food.
coal was subjected to the intense cannibal.
heat and pressure of Earth’s crust. The class was fascinated by the antidote
story of Christopher Columbus’s
encounter with the Caribs, a
supposed anthropophagous people.
Page 15 of 289
antigen antiphonal aparejo
n adj n
/ SantDjEn / / anStifEnFl / / TapESrC(T)P /
Gk + Gk Gk + Gk L > Sp
a usually protein or carbohydrate answering or alternating (as in a a packsaddle of stuffed leather or
substance that when introduced into musical composition sung canvas.
the body stimulates the production alternately by divisions of a choir The aparejo has never been
of an antibody. or congregation). improved upon as a way to protect
Louis Pasteur developed an antigen The director seated half the choir an animal from injury while
against the much-feared anthrax in the balcony to make the piece holding cargo.
bacterium. with antiphonal parts even more
dramatic. apartment
antihistamine
n antiphony apiculture
/ TantIShistETmGn / n
L + Gk + ISV antiquate / SCpETkElchE(r) /
any of various compounds used for L
treating certain allergic reactions. antiquated [has near homonym: aviculture]
Although Rod and Todd are twins, beekeeping, especially when
only Rod needs to take an antiseptics pursued on a large scale.
antihistamine during the hay-fever Even though apiculture has been
season. antithetical practiced for many centuries, bees
have not been domesticated or
antineoplastic antitussive tamed.
antinomy anxieties apiece

n n pl
/ anStinEmG / / aNSzIEZGz / apishamore
Gk L
[Note: Could be confused with strong concerns about some aplastic
antimony.] a statement or sentiment imminent developments.
that is seemingly contradictory or Sally has had enough to worry apocalyptic
opposed to common sense and yet about without our adding to her adj
perhaps true in fact : paradox. anxieties. / ETpBkESliptik /
The students were asked to write an Gk
essay on the following antinomy: anxiolytic predicting or foreboding imminent
The more terrible the prospect of n disaster or final doom.
nuclear war becomes, the less / TaNzGPSliZik / Apocalyptic prophets are typically
likely it is to happen. L + Gk hostile to reason and science.
a drug that relieves an abnormal
antipathies and overwhelming sense of apocryph
n pl apprehension and of fear.
/ anStipEthGz / Amy’s doctor prescribed an apocrypha
Gk anxiolytic for her to take when she n pl
settled aversions or dislikes. felt a panic attack. / ESpBkrEfE /
George Washington warned of the Gk > L
consequences of having permanent, anxious quasi-scriptural books of doubtful
inveterate antipathies against authorship and authority.
particular nations. anxiously The Sunday school teacher shared
adv with her students some stories from
antipathy / SaN(k)shEslG / the Old Testament apocrypha.
L
in an apprehensive, worried
manner.
Mary anxiously twisted her hair
during the geometry test.
aoristic
Page 16 of 289
Apollonian apostate appeased
adj n v
/ TapESlPnGEn / / ESpBTstCt / / ESpGzd /
Gk Gk > L L>F>E
of, relating to, or resembling the one who has renounced or forsaken caused to subside : allayed.
god Apollo, the Greco-Roman god his religious faith or given up his Carole peeked in Mrs. Hinkle’s
of manly beauty, of poetry and moral allegiance. grade book and appeased her
music, and of the wisdom of The Roman emperor known as curiosity about the grade
oracles. “Julian the Apostate” tried to distribution.
Reggie’s Apollonian temperament reverse the tide of Christianity in
led him to an admiration of the Roman empire. appellant
classical art and literature.
apotheosis appellate
Apollyon n adj
n / ETpBthGSPsDs / / ESpelDt /
/ ESpBlyEn / Gk L
Biblical name the raising of a person or thing to [Note: Could be confused with
[Note: Might be confused with divine status. appellant.] having the power to
Apollonian.] devil. The emperor Caligula announced review and affirm, reverse, or
Like Christian in the book his own apotheosis to his terrified modify the judgment or decision of
Pilgrim’s Progress, everyone subjects. another tribunal.
eventually faces his or her personal The appellate court decided to
Apollyon. apotheosize reverse the lower court’s verdict.
apologetic apotropaic appellations

adj n pl
apologize / apEtrESpCik / / TapESlCshEnz /
Gk + Ecf L
apolune designed to avert or turn aside evil. [has near homonym:
The native costume included a Appalachians] names or titles by
apopemptic pouch of apotropaic herbs worn which persons, things, or clans are
adj around the neck. called and known.
/ TapESpem(p)tik / Matt has a reputation for
Gk + Gk appalled bestowing familiar appellations
sung or addressed to one departing upon his friends, and for some
: valedictory. apparent reason he calls his best friend
At the end of the ceremony the “Sarge.”
graduates filed out of the apparently appendage
auditorium to the strains of an
apopemptic hymn. appearance appendicular
adj
apophysis appeasable / TapDnSdikyElE(r) /
n adj L
/ ESpBfEsDs / / ESpGzEbEl / of or relating to a limb or limbs.
Gk + Gk L > F + Ecf Arthritis limited Joan’s
a part of a bone (as a vertebra) that capable of being brought to a state appendicular movements.
projects outward. of ease or content.
After Tony’s car accident, X rays Jeff described his father as being appendix
showed that the apophysis of one of easily excitable, but just as easily
his vertebrae was out of alignment. appeasable. appetitost
apoplectic
apostasy
Page 17 of 289
applause apron aquiclude
n
/ ESplOz / apse aquosity
L n
approval publicly expressed (as by apterous / ESkwBsEZG /
clapping hands). L
After the applause subsided, the apterygote the quality or state of being moist.
opera continued. adj Marlene dutifully checked the
/ apSterETgPt / aquosity of the soil every day with
appleblossom Gk the test strips the nursery gave her.
of or relating to a subclass of
applicant insects that are presumed never to arable
have developed wings.
application Silverfish, firebrats, and bristletails arachin
are apterygote insects.
appliquer arachnophagous
apteryx adj
appoggiatura n / TaTrakSnBfEgEs /
/ SaptE(T)riks / Gk + Gk
apportioned Gk + Gk feeding on spiders.
a flightless New Zealand bird that Jill’s contribution to the discussion
apposite is about the size of a domestic about arachnophagous creatures
chicken. was that there are not enough of
appraise The eggs of the apteryx, which are them.
v as large as one fourth its weight,
/ ESprCz / are incubated by the male. Aramaic
F>E n
[has homonym: upraise] set a apyretic / TarESmCik /
value on (as goods or land). adj Gk
For insurance purposes, Selina had / TCTpISreZik / a Semitic language of which
an expert appraise her furniture. Gk documents are known from as early
without fever. as the 9th century B.C.
appreciate The pediatrician said that Bobby Aramaic is the mother of many
could return to school as soon as languages in the Middle East and
apprehend he was apyretic. Asia.
v
/ TaprDShend / aqua araneid
L n
take (a person) in legal process : / SakwE / araneiform
arrest. L
The police chief ordered the a variable color averaging a light araucaria
officers to apprehend the forger. greenish blue.
The whiteness of the beach’s sand arbitrariness
apprehensible made the aqua of the water even n
more striking. / TBrbEStrerGnDs /
approximately L + Ecf
aquamarine the quality or state of arising from
appulse unrestrained exercise of the will,
n aquarelle caprice, or personal preference.
/ ESpEls / The report indicated that the ghetto
L aquarellist residents had been subjected to the
the apparent very near approach of n arbitrariness of the authorities.
one celestial body to another. / TakwESrelDst /
Marsha peered through binoculars L > It > F + Ecf
to see the appulse of Saturn to one who draws or paints in
Jupiter. watercolor, especially transparent
watercolor.
apraxia Duncan showed great promise as
an aquarellist.
Page 18 of 289
arbitration archetype argali
n n n
/ TBrbDStrCshEn / / SBrkETtIp / / SBrgElG /
L Gk + Gk Mongolian
the hearing and determination of a the original model, form, or pattern a large wild sheep having immense
case between parties in controversy from which something is made or horns and widely distributed in
by a judge. develops. mountainous central and eastern
They discussed and debated and Diane bragged that her dress Asia.
raved and ranted until they were on design was the archetype that The argali may weigh over 300
the verge of blows, when it was others had merely copied. pounds and stand four feet high at
decided to submit the question to the shoulders.
arbitration by the princesses. archidiaconal
argent
arbor archimage n
/ SBrjEnt /
arboretum architect L
a metal tincture used in heraldry
arbustum architectural and conventionally supposed to be
adj represented by silver but in practice
arbutus / TBrkEStekchErEl / represented by either silver or
n Gk > L white.
/ BrSbyVZEs / of, resembling, or relating to the art The earl’s coat of arms featured a
L or practice of designing and roaring lion on a field of argent.
a tree of a genus of evergreen building structures, especially
shrubs or trees of southern Europe habitable structures. argonaut
and western North America with King Ludwig’s castle in Bavaria is n
white or pink flowers and many- a famous example of architectural / SBrgETnOt /
seeded scarlet berries. extravagance. Gk name + Gk
Evelyn refers to the arbutus in her an adventurer or traveler engaged
backyard as a “strawberry tree.” architrave in a particular quest; specifically :
arc one of those who went to California
n archive in 1849 in search of gold.
/ SBrk / Another name for an argonaut is
L archives “forty-niner.”
a sustained brilliantly luminous argue
glow formed when a break is made archivist
in an electric circuit. argyria
The arc that shot from the archivistic
electrical appliance indicated a arid
problem with its circuitry. ardoise
aridly
arcade arena
arise
arcane Areopagus
adj n aristocracy
/ BrSkCn / / TarGSBpEgEs / n
L Gk / TarDSstBkrEsG /
known only to a very few : the supreme tribunal of Athens. Gk + Gk
mysterious. The general was commanded to an upper class usually made up of
The scroll was written in an arcane appear before the Areopagus, but an hereditary nobility.
script that nobody could identify. he refused. In matters of war and peace the
king often sought the advice of the
archaically aristocracy.
archaism
Page 19 of 289
aristocrat arrearage Arthropoda
n n n pl
/ ESristETkrat / / ESririj / / BrSthrBpEdE /
Gk + Gk L > F > E + Ecf Gk
one who has the bearing and an obligation that has not been on the largest phylum of invertebrate
viewpoint typical of a ruling, time or is unfinished, especially : animals with jointed legs, a
privileged, or otherwise superior something that remains unpaid and segmented body, and an
class. overdue after previous payment of exoskeleton.
After winning the lottery, Francine a part. Insects comprise the class Insecta,
started behaving like an aristocrat. Mr. Olson’s medical bills remained the largest class of the phylum
in arrearage until the insurance Arthropoda.
arithmetic claims were settled.
articulate
armiger arrears adj
n n pl / BrStikyElDt /
/ SBrmDjEr / / ESri(E)rz / L
L L>F>E expressing oneself clearly and
[has near homonym: armature] state of being behind in the effectively.
armor-bearer, squire. discharge of duties, obligations, or Articulate even when he was a
The knight summoned his armiger responsibilities. young child, Jack is a good choice
so he could choose a sword. Mark’s landlord will evict him for debate team captain.
because he is one year in arrears
armigerous with his rent payments. artificer
armoire arriccio artist
arnica arriero artiste

n
/ SBrnika / arrival artistry
L
the dried flower head of an herb arrogate arugula
used in a tincture for bruises,
sprains, and swellings. arsedine asado
The herbalist used arnica to make a n
paste for healing bumps and arsine / ESsB(T)dP /
bruises. L > Sp
arson barbecue.
arolium n Tina is sure that La Piñata has the
n / SBrsFn / best asado in town.
/ ESrPlGEm / L>F
L the willful and malicious burning asarotum
a padlike lobe projecting between of or attempt to burn any building,
the tarsal claws of many insects. structure, or property of another or ascending
The grasshopper has a small but of one’s own usually with criminal adj
well-developed arolium on its foot. or fraudulent intent. / ESsendiN /
The investigators determined that L > E + Ecf
aromatic the fire was the result of arson. mounting up or sloping upward :
adj rising.
/ TarESmaZik / arterial The watercolor depicted a country
Gk > L > F > E manor with a gently ascending
of, relating to, or characterized by arteriole driveway.
the presence of at least one benzene
ring. artery ascensive
Aromatic amines are used mainly
in the manufacture of dyes. ascertain
Page 20 of 289
ascetic assailants assurgent
adj n pl adj
/ ESseZik / / ESsClEnts / / ESsErjEnt /
Gk F L
refraining from self-indulgence : ones who encounter or confront in ascending, rising.
self-denying, self-disciplined, order to prevail over. In heraldry a human or beast rising
austere. Roosevelt warned that assailants of out of the sea is said to be
Ricky’s lavish lifestyle contrasts the democratic way of life were on “assurgent.”
sharply with his brother’s ascetic the march, threatening large and astatine
existence. small nations.
asterial
ascot assault adj
n / aSstirGEl /
ascribe / ESsOlt / L or Gk
L>F>E of or relating to stars.
ashamed a violent attack with physical The movie theater’s ceiling is
means (as blows or weapons). dotted with an asterial design.
askance The rock musician was fined $2000
adv for his assault on the photographer. asterisk
/ ESskan(t)s /
unknown assemble asthma
with a side look : sideways, v
obliquely. / ESsembEl / asthmogenic
Juan’s cat has a habit of looking L
askance at a toy for a long while join together usually in an orderly astounding
before pouncing on it. way with logical selection or adj
sequence. / ESstaUndiN /
asocial Moira helped Simon assemble the E
5000-piece puzzle, but it still took causing or capable of causing
aspen them a week to finish. wonder and surprise in high degree.
The book was hailed as a
asperge assembly fascinating account of an
astounding epoch.
asperities assertive
n pl astragal
/ aSsperEZGz / assessable
L astragalomancy
rough places. assessed n
Only with a microscope could / ESstragElPTman(t)sG /
Michael see asperities on the assign Gk + Gk
seemingly smooth leaf. divination by means of small bones
assimilative or dice.
asperous The committee decided to have a
assisi booth devoted to astragalomancy
aspersions n rather than the usual palm
/ ESsG(T)sG / readings at the fair.
aspidistra It geog name
embroidery with unworked designs astringent
aspirant outlined by a solid background of adj
cross-stitch. / ESstrinjEnt /
asportation Elaine purchased an antique L>F
Italian pillowcase decorated with having the property of drawing
assisi. together the soft organic tissues.
Lorelei applied an astringent lotion
assist to her face every night before
bedtime.
assistant
assure
Page 21 of 289
astrolabe asymptote atoll
n n n
/ SastrETlCb / / SasDm(p)TtPt / / SaTtOl /
Gk > L&F > E Gk Maldive Islands name
a compact instrument for observing a straight line associated with a a coral reef appearing above the sea
the positions of the celestial bodies. curve such that as a point P moves as a low ring-shaped coral island or
Before the sextant was developed, out along the curve, the distance as a chain of closely spaced coral
the astrolabe was used for from the point P to the line islets around a shallow lagoon.
navigation. approaches zero. The atoll was formed by a process
The graph clearly showed an started millions of years ago by an
astronaut asymptote to the hyperbola. undersea volcano.
astrophysicist asyndeton atrament

n n n
/ TastrESfizEsDst / / ESsindETtBn / / SatrEmEnt /
Gk Gk L
a specialist in the branch of omission of the conjunctions that a very dark substance—usually
astronomy dealing principally with ordinarily join words or clauses. used of liquids.
the physical and chemical natures Anyone who has taken Latin should The puff of atrament hid the
of the heavenly bodies and their know the famous asyndeton in octopus from a nearby predator.
origin and evolution. Caesar’s words, “I came, I saw, I
Martha plans to be an conquered.” atresia
astrophysicist and work for NASA. atavistic
adj attaboy
astuciously / TaZESvistik / interj
adv L / SaZEbOi /
/ ESst(y)VshEslG / marked by recurrence in an E
L>F organism or in any of its parts of a —used to express encouragement,
shrewdly, cleverly. trait typical of ancestors more approval, or admiration.
The movie details the methods of remote than the parents. “Attaboy!” cried Uncle Felix as
the detective who astuciously solves Even though Marie considered Ted crossed the finish line.
the murder mystery. herself a city girl, visiting her
great-grandparents’ farm ignited attachable
astucity an atavistic desire to dig in the dirt. adj
/ EStachEbEl /
asunder atheist Gmc + Lcf
adv capable of being fastened to
/ ESsEndE(r) / athetize something.
E Linda’s new cape has an
into parts : into different pieces. athodyd attachable hood for use in the rain.
The wind was so violent that Justin
feared his tent would be torn Atlantic attacked
asunder. adj
/ EtSlantik / attain
asymmetric Gk
adj of, relating to, or found in, on, or attempt
/ TCsDSmetrik / near the Atlantic Ocean.
Gk The hurricane ravaged the Atlantic attending
not characterized by due or coast of Florida.
balanced proportions. atticism
Devon challenged his audience by n
intentionally making the sculpture / SaZETsizEm /
asymmetric. Gk
a favoring of or attachment to the
Athenians.
Jacques’s writing was noted for its
pronounced atticism.
attorney
Page 22 of 289
attorneys audace augmented
n pl adj v
/ EStErnGz / / aUSdBTchC / / OgSmentDd /
F L > It L
legal agents qualified to act for bold, spirited—used as a direction increased.
suitors and defendants in legal in music. Cheating at Tim’s school has
proceedings. Angela sang the audace passage actually augmented under the new
Under the law, the hospital had to with remarkable verve, and the honor code.
turn over all relevant documents to audience murmured their
the attorneys for the plaintiff. appreciation. Augustan
adj
attraction audible / OSgEstEn /
n L name
/ EStrakshEn / audio of, relating to, or characteristic of
L the Roman emperor Augustus
[Note: The definition provided is audiometer Caesar or his age.
not the one most commonly n Vergil’s Aeneid is the pinnacle of
associated with this word.] a force / TOdGSBmEZE(r) / Augustan literature.
acting between oppositely L + Ecf + Gk > Ecf
electrified bodies or oppositely an instrument used in measuring aulic
magnetized bodies that tends to the acuity of hearing in the
draw them together and resist their individual ear for sounds of various aunt
separation. frequencies.
Mr. Lee showed the pupils a simple At the local schools, students’ aurify
compass and explained that it hearing is tested annually by a v
worked because of the attraction specialist using an audiometer. / SOrETfI /
between the compass needle and L
Earth’s magnetic poles. audit turn into gold.
v Alchemists of long ago tried to
atwitter / SOdDt / aurify stone.
L
auburn attend (a course especially in a auroral
adj college or university) without
/ SObE(r)n / working for or expecting to receive aurulent
L>F formal credit.
of a moderate brown color that is Senior citizens are allowed to audit auscultate
redder, lighter, and slightly stronger classes free of charge at the local
than chestnut brown. community college. auspicate
Rita Hayworth and Greer Garson
were famous actresses who had auditor auspicious
auburn hair.
auditorium austausch
auction n n
v / TOdEStPrGEm / / SaUsTtaUsh /
/ SOkshEn / L G
L a room, hall, or entire building an effect of turbulent motion that is
sell to the highest bidder at a public specially designed for stage and manifested by an exchange of air
sale of property. film presentations, concerts, and water vapor molecules from
Georgia wanted to auction all of lectures, and audio-visual features one layer to another.
the furniture. and activities. The meteorologist ran a computer
A new curtain for the stage of the simulation to show atmospheric
auditorium was purchased with austausch.
money raised by the students.
austerity
Page 23 of 289
Australian autistic avgolemono
adj adj n
/ OSstrClyEn / / OStistik / / TBvgPSlemE(T)nP /
L Gk Gk
of or relating to the commonwealth of, relating to, or marked by a soup or sauce made of chicken
of Australia. absorption in self-centered stock, egg yolks, and lemon juice.
The longest fence in the world subjective mental activity. Alex ate three bowls of his
keeps Australian wild dogs from Ulrike’s autistic behavior includes grandmother’s avgolemono after
marauding the sheep herds of fantasies, hallucinations, and his soccer game.
Southeast Australia. delusions.
aviary
Australopithecus autochthon
n avid
/ OTstrC(T)lPSpithikEs / autograph adj
L + Gk / SavDd /
a genus of extinct generalized automation L
anthropoid apes known chiefly n craving eagerly : desirous to the
from skulls from the middle / TOZESmCshEn / point of greed.
Pleistocene deposits of southern Gk Behind Mr. Jenkins’s superficial
Africa. the state of being operated with a concern was a gleam of avid
Justine’s heart skipped a beat as self-regulating mechanism that curiosity.
she unearthed the skull of an performs a required act at a
Australopithecus. predetermined point in an avidity
operation.
autecology Automation of the assembly line avifauna
increased productivity at the plant.
auteur avocation
n automobile
/ PStEr / avogram
F autonomously n
[has homonym: hauteur] a film / SavETgram /
director who is the primary creative autopilot It name + Gk > ISV
force in a motion picture. a unit of mass and weight equal to
The auteur was not very receptive auxilian one gram divided by the Avogadro
to the actors’ suggestions. number.
avalvular Mr. Lufkin explained to the class
authoritarianism that an avogram of any element is
n avenge equal to the weight of one atom.
/ OTthBrESterGETnizEm /
L + Ecff avenue avoid
a political system that concentrates
power in the hands of a leader or a aversion awesome
small autocratic elite not
constitutionally responsible to the avert awful
people. v
Sergei said that despite all its / ESvErt / awkward
democratic rhetoric, the system L adj
was authoritarianism, pure and [has near homonym: evert] prevent / SOkwE(r)d /
simple. the occurrence or unfortunate, ON > E + E
dangerous, and dire effects of. lacking ease, grace, or deftness of
authorship It is hoped that the peace mission movement.
will avert war. Something troubled and awkward
in Melinda’s manner made Mary
stare very hard at her.
Page 24 of 289
axel baalize bactericidal
n v
/ SaksEl / / SbC(E)TlIz / bactericide
name Heb n
[has homonyms: axil, axle] a jump convert to or influence toward the / bakStirETsId /
from the outer forward edge of one worship of Baal or to some other Gk + L
skate with 1½ turns taken in the air form of idolatry. something that destroys bacteria.
and a return to the outer backward The minister gave a sermon Maggie cleans the bathroom with a
edge of the other skate. lambasting Wall Street and the bull product that contains a bactericide.
Melanie performed a flawless triple market for trying to baalize
axel in practice but fell on the investors to the worship of bacterin
landing during the tryouts for the mammon.
ice show. bacteriology
babouche n
axiomatic n / (T)bakTtirGSBlEjG /
adj / bESbVsh / Gk
/ TaksGESmaZik / Per > Ar > F a science that deals with the study
Gk a chiefly oriental slipper made of bacteria and with their relations
of or relating to a proposition, without heel or quarters. to medicine, industry, and
principle, or rule that has found The babouche on display had a agriculture.
general acceptance. maroon silk upper and colorful Mrs. Murry has doctorial degrees
“Everyone has to die and pay beadwork. in both biology and bacteriology.
taxes” is Mrs. Badger’s favorite
axiomatic saying. babuina bacteriophagic
adj
axle bacillary / bakTtirGESfajik /
n adj Gk
/ SaksEl / / SbasETlerG / of, relating to, or being viruses that
E L infect and destroy bacteria.
a spindle that enables a wheel or shaped like a rod : consisting of Around 1910 Frederick Twort
pair of wheels to revolve. small rods or rodlike bodies. discovered bacteriophagic viruses,
Mike called a tow truck after the Roger did not know which bacillary thus laying the foundation for
rear axle on his car was damaged parasite he was viewing under the modern virology.
in a collision. microscope.
bacteriosis
axolotl backlight
bacterium
azalea backspace
n baculiform
/ ESzClyE / backstage adj
Gk n / SbakyElETfOrm /
any plant of a genus of shrubs or / SbakSstCj / L
trees with deciduous leaves and E+L>F>E shaped like a rod.
funnel-shaped flowers now usually the whole or any part of the area of The baculiform chromosomes
considered a subgenus of a stage that is behind the looked huge under the electron
Rhododendron. proscenium; specifically : the microscope.
Anna grew a magnificent azalea on dressing rooms of a theater.
her balcony. The drama class members were badgers
delighted to be asked if they wanted n pl
to tour the backstage. / SbajE(r)z /
AF? > E + Ecf
backstroke any of certain strong sturdily built
carnivorous mammals.
backwoodsy Ivar always said that the badgers
had cleaner houses than people,
bacon and that when he hired a
housekeeper her name would be
bacteria Mrs. Badger.
Page 25 of 289
bafflement ballad bandersnatch
baffling balladist bandstand

adj
/ Sbaf(E)liN / balloonist bandwagon
E n
perplexing, confusing. / bESlVnDst / bangboard
Liam tried to explain the problem Gmc > It + Ecf
with baffling wordy sentences. one that ascends in a balloon (as for bangtail
exhibition purposes).
baggy The aerial photograph of Leadville banished
was taken by a balloonist more v
bail than a hundred years ago. / Sbanisht /
Gmc > F > E
bailey ballot required (a person) by authority to
n leave especially his own country or
/ SbClG / ballotade the country in which he was
F>E staying.
[has homonyms: bailee, bailie] the balmy It has been that way since Rhyme
outer wall of a medieval castle or and Reason were banished.
any of the several walls balneotherapy
surrounding the keep. n bankroll
When the enemy attacked the / TbalnGPStherEpG /
castle, they first tried to scale the L + Gk bankrupt
bailey with crudely made ladders. the treatment of disease by baths.
In the early 1900s a small town in banner
bakery Tennessee was known as the
ultimate place for balneotherapy. banns
bakeware n pl
balsamiferous / Sbanz /
balance E
n balthazar [has homonym and near homonym:
/ SbalEn(t)s / bans and bands] notice of a
L>F bamboche proposed marriage proclaimed in a
[Note: The definition provided is church or other place prescribed by
not the one most commonly banal law in order that any person may
associated with this word.] a announce a known impediment to
controlled state in dancing of banally the union.
maintaining an erect posture. adv Lord Bainbridge hoped that the
Barbara kept her balance perfectly / SbCnFlG / three days required between the
as she spun around and around. F posting of the banns and the
in a trite, uninteresting manner. wedding would be long enough for
balderdash After many weeks of campaigning, his son to reconsider his decision to
the tired senator was speaking marry the cobbler’s daughter.
baleen banally and rather robotically.
bantam
baleful banderilla adj
n / SbantEm /
balkanize / TbandESrG(y)E / Javanese geog name
v Gmc > Sp small : easily handled.
/ SbOlkETnIz / a decorated barbed dart that is Accustomed to bantam automobiles
geog name + Ecf thrust into the neck or shoulder of in Europe, Jacqui regards
break up (as a region) into smaller the bull in a bullfight. American cars as too large and
ineffectual and frequently The animal rights protesters unwieldy.
conflicting units. displayed a bloodstained
The candidate charged her banderilla. bantamweight
opponent with attempting to
balkanize society by emphasizing banderillero banter
ethnic tensions.
Page 26 of 289
banzai barleycorns basicity
n pl
baptize / SbBrlGTkO(E)rnz / basirostral
E
barathrum [Note: The definition provided is basket
n not the one most commonly
/ SbarEthrEm / associated with this word.] old basketball
Gk > L units of length, each equal to the
a bottomless pit or abyss : a place average length of a grain of barley : bass
or state of misery or torment. the third part of an inch.
The motivational speaker said that Matthew decided to annoy his bassoonist
her early life was a barathrum teacher by measuring his project
which she was fortunate to have results in barleycorns. baste
survived. v
barnyard / SbCst /
barbarian Gmc > F > E
barometry [has homonym: based] sew by
barbel hand or machine with long loose
baroness stitches in order to hold in place
barbershop during fittings or for final stitching.
baroquely Lorna’s sister showed her how to
barbet baste the hem of the dress before
baroscope she tried it on.
barbicel n
/ SbarETskPp / bathyal
Barbizon Gk + Gk adj
adj an apparatus for showing that the / SbathGEl /
/ SbBrbETzBn / loss of weight of an object in air Gk
F geog name equals the weight of the air of or relating to the deeper parts of
depicting landscape and rural genre displaced by it. the ocean, especially those parts
subjects from direct observation of Stanley put the baroscope beside between 100 and 1000 fathoms :
nature and with much attention to the air pump before starting his deep-sea.
the expression of light and experiment. In the bathyal zone photosynthesis
atmosphere. cannot occur because light doesn’t
The exhibit featured works of three barrabora penetrate that deep.
prominent artists of the Barbizon
school of painting. barrette bathybic
adj
bardolatry barretter / bESthibik /
Gk > L
bareback barring of, relating to, or living in the
deepest parts of the sea.
barefisted barrister The ichthyologist spent his career
n studying bathybic fish indigenous
bariatrics / SbarDstE(r) / to the Cayman Trench.
E
barium a counsel admitted to plead at the bathyseism
bar and undertake the public trial of n
barley causes in an English superior court. / SbathDTsIzEm /
Tim’s role of barrister in the school Gk + Gk
play requires that he don a an earthquake of deep origin
powdered wig and speak with a recordable the world over.
British accent. In Carleen’s story, tidal waves
caused by a bathyseism destroyed
baryon everything within 20 miles of
coastlines.
bascart
bathysmal
baseless
Page 27 of 289
bathysphere batture beautify
n
battement / baStU(E)r / beaverette
n F
/ bAtmBM / the alluvial land between a river at beckon
F low-water stage and a levee—used
an extension of the free foot in any especially of such land along the becloud
direction followed by a beat against lower Mississippi River. v
the supporting foot. The government decreed that the / bDSklaUd /
Baryshnikov executed a quick batture could be used only for E+E
battement as he entered the stage. farmland because it was prone to cover over with a cloud : obscure,
seasonal flooding. mask.
batten The meteorologists expect this front
v baud to becloud the mountains for
/ SbatFn / several days.
ON Bauhaus
fasten by or as if by means of a adj bedaub
reinforcing strip. / SbaUThaUs /
The captain ordered the crew to G bedizen
batten down the hatches when the of, relating to, or influenced by a v
waves grew higher. school of design in Weimar in / bDSdIzFn /
1919. D
batterie The area’s newest ski lodge is a dress or adorn with gaudy and
n mixture of Bauhaus and Danish showy vulgarity.
/ SbaZErG / modern. Angelina decided to bedizen herself
F with jewelry and scarves and go to
[has homonym: battery] a ballet beadle the costume party as a
movement consisting of beating n fortuneteller.
together the feet or calves of the / SbGdFl /
legs during a leap. E bedrock
Jason injured his ankle attempting [has homonym: beetle] a herald or
a batterie. messenger especially in the service beechnut
of a law court.
battery The bailiff knows that his job is beeline
important, even though the
battle townsfolk refer to him as a beadle. beelzebub
n
battledore beadledom / bGSelzETbEb /
n Heb
/ SbaZFlTdP(E)r / beagle a devil.
L > OProv? > E When the police appeared, the
a light flat bat or racket that is used beard thieves left all their loot behind and
in striking a shuttlecock. ran as though a beelzebub were
Alfonso dusted off the old bearded after them.
battledore and went to the
badminton court. beast beeper
battlesome beatific Beethovenian

adj adj
/ TbGEStifik / / TbCTtPSvGnGEn /
L G name + Ecf
marked by an appearance of of, relating to, or characteristic of
complete bliss or utter benignity. Ludwig van Beethoven or his
The hockey player appeared musical style or works.
beatific as he related how he made The opening movement of Hubert’s
the winning goal. new symphony is clearly
Beethovenian in style.
beatnik
begaud
Page 28 of 289
beneficiary bequeathed
beginning n v
/ TbenESfishGTerG / / bDSkwGLd /
behalf L E
the person named (as in an gave or left by formal declaration
beignet insurance or annuity policy) as the so that the thing given passes into
n one who is to receive proceeds or the ownership of the recipient after
/ bCnSyC / benefits accruing. the death of the donor.
F Cora named her son as her The childless couple bequeathed
[Note: Could be confused with one beneficiary in her life insurance their property to their favorite
pronunciation of plural beignets.] policy. charity.
fritter.
As each beignet was dropped in hot beneficiate berate
oil, there was a loud sizzle and pop. v
/ TbenESfishGTCt / Berber
belabor L > Sp n
process (as a raw material) so as to / SbErbEr /
belaud improve the physical and chemical Ar
properties. [Note: The definition provided is
belfry To prepare clay for ceramic uses, it not the one most commonly
is first necessary to beneficiate it by associated with this word.] a branch
belladonna crushing and separating out of the Afro-Asiatic language family
impurities such as sand and mica. comprising languages spoken by
bellicosely minorities in North Africa and the
adv benefit Sahara.
/ SbelDTkPslG / n Alex speaks enough Berber to ask
L + Ecf / SbenETfit / directions in rural Morocco.
in a warlike, aggressive, combative L>F>E
manner. something that guards, aids, or bereaved
Vinny reacts bellicosely to conflict promotes well-being : advantage.
and has been suspended several Advances in genetic engineering berok
times for fighting. could enhance the nutritional n
benefit of crops. / bESrBk /
bellyache unknown
benign a monkey of southeastern Asia
beloid adj having a short slender tail which is
adj / bDSnIn / held in the shape of the letter S
/ SbGTlOid / L>F>E when the animal is excited.
Gk + Ecf tending to promote or indicative of The botanist trained the berok to
having a shape like that of an happiness, goodness, or favorable collect specimens from tall trees.
arrow. outcome : wholesome.
Whenever the cursor on the Gretchen’s new circle of friends is berserker
computer screen reached a not a benign influence on her.
significant word or icon, it became beryllium
beloid. benignly
beseech
beneath benthos v
/ bDSsGch /
benefactor benthoscope E
address oneself earnestly to.
beneficial benzolize Margaret put on her most dejected
look to beseech her father to give
her the car keys.
besiege
Page 29 of 289
besieged betwixt bialy
v prep n
/ bDSsGjd / / bDStwikst / / bGSalG /
L>F>E E Yiddish
surrounded closely : crowded upon between. a flat roll that has a depressed
or around. The fly landed right betwixt Peter’s center and is usually covered with
Of the numerous fans who besieged eyes. onion flakes.
the athlete, Michelle was the only A bialy is dense and chewy,
one to get his autograph. bevue somewhat like a bagel.
besmirch bewail biathlon

n
besotted bewildering / bISathTlBn /
adj adj L > Gk
/ bDSsBtDd / / bDSwild(E)riN / a composite athletic contest
E E+E consisting of cross-country skiing
characterized by a condition of causing to lose one’s bearings. and rifle sharpshooting.
blind doting affection. The town’s maze of streets was Justine placed second in the
The Air Force pilot was besotted bewildering even to its own biathlon at the Olympic trials.
with the movie star. inhabitants.
bibliognost
bestiary bey
n bibliotaphic
/ SbeschGTerG / bezique adj
L n / TbiblGEStafik /
a medieval often illustrated work in / bDSzGk / Gk > F
verse or prose describing with an F characteristic of one who hides
allegorical moralizing commentary a card game similar to pinochle that away or hoards books.
the appearance and habits of real is played with a pack of 64 cards Hazel devotes her entire basement
and fabled animals. and in which the points are made to the accommodation of her
At the Metropolitan Museum, Eli chiefly by winning tricks. bibliotaphic desires.
lingered in front of a case Clyde claimed he was playing
containing a French bestiary that bezique with friends the night his bibulous
told a story about a unicorn and a business partner’s house was adj
dragon. robbed. / SbibyElEs /
L
bestsellerdom bhabar inclined to drink especially
intoxicating beverages.
bethesda bhalu W. C. Fields made a career out of
n n playing bibulous characters.
/ bDSthezdE / / SbBTlV /
Gk biblical geog name Skt > Hindi bicker
a hallowed place : chapel. a common bear of India and Sri
Dorcinda attended services at the Lanka that has long black hair and bickering
bethesda. very large claws, a white V-shaped
mark on the breast, a long snout, bicuspid
betrayal and a very mobile tongue and lips.
The bhalu is also called a sloth bicycle
betrothal bear because of its slow-moving
n habits. bidialectalist
/ bDStrPLEl /
E
the act of promising in marriage.
The king announced the betrothal
of his daughter to the duke.
Page 30 of 289
biennially bildungsroman billowy
adv n adj
/ bISenGElG / / SbilTdUN(k)srPTmBn / / SbilEwG /
L G ON?
every two years. a novel about the usually early characterized by rolling or swelling
The air force base biennially hosts development or spiritual education surges.
an air show of new and old of the main character. The warm sun and billowy breezes
aircraft. Wilson called the bildungsroman dried them as they went.
an experiment in living for the
bierstube hero. binding
n
bifara bile / SbIndiN /
E
bifocal bilious the fastening of the sections of a
adj book.
bigamy / SbilyEs / Despite the great age of the book,
n L its binding was still intact.
/ SbigEmG / appearing as though affected by a
Gk > L liver disorder. binturong
the statutory offense of entering The green of the marble reflecting n
into a ceremonial marriage with on their faces made them look / binStVTrON /
one person while still legally bilious. Malay
married to another. an Asian prehensile-tailed catlike
Belief that one’s first marriage was biliousness carnivorous mammal.
illegal is not acceptable as a valid The muscular prehensile tail of the
defense of bigamy. bilirubin binturong is used to grasp
n branches while its forelimbs pull
bigbloom / TbilESrVbDn / fruiting branches to its mouth.
L > F + L + ISV
bighorn a reddish yellow crystalline biodegradable
pigment occurring in bile, blood,
bigot urine, and gallstones. bioengineering
If a newborn is jaundiced because
bigotry of a high level of bilirubin, biological
n phototherapy is the common
/ SbigEtrG / treatment. biology
F>E
obstinate and unreasoning billboard biophagous
attachment to one’s own belief and
opinions with intolerance of beliefs billet biospeleology
opposed to them.
The school’s International billingsgate biplane
Relations Club strives to increase n
awareness of the prevalence of / SbiliNzTgCt / birch
bigotry. E landmark
condemnatory language marked by birchbark
bilberry the coarse or offensive and
scornfully abusive or contentious. birdie
bilboquet The billingsgate in the film was n
excessive and unnecessary, serving / SbErdG /
only to give it an R rating. E
[has homonym: birdy] a golf score
of one stroke less than par on a
hole.
Eleanor putted well on the 18th
hole and got a birdie.
birthright
Page 31 of 289
biscotti blackboard blinker
n pl n
/ bDSskBZG / blackthorn / SbliNkE(r) /
L > It E
crisp cookies of Italian origin blamable a device consisting essentially of a
flavored usually with anise and light that can be flashed on and off
filberts or almonds. blameful regularly as a warning (as at a
Angela usually has several biscotti railway crossing).
with her morning coffee. blanching Because of the low afternoon sun,
Jemmy couldn’t tell if the
biserial blandish Cadillac’s left-turn blinker was on
or not.
bishopric blanquillo
n n blintzes
/ SbishE(T)prik / / blBNSkG(T)(y)P /
Gk Sp blitheful
the administrative area under the any of several important marine
jurisdiction of a clergyman of the food fishes (as the ocean whitefish blithely
highest order in Christian churches and the tilefish).
usually charged with a function It took Hans only ten minutes to bloat
such as the supervision of a land a three-foot blanquillo.
diocese. blob
Priests throughout the bishopric blatancy
were required to attend the blockade
meeting. blatherer
blockbuster
bismarck blazer
n blolly
/ SbizTmBrk / blazonry
G name blondism
a raised doughnut shaped like a ball bleachable
with filling usually of jelly. bloodcurdling
Jelly squirted out the end of the bleachers
bismarck when Carrie bit into it. bloodshed
bleakness
bismuth blooper
blende n
bistoury / SblVpE(r) /
blepharism imit
bitingly an embarrassing public blunder.
blepharospasm The director shouted “Enough!”
bitt n when the actor’s blooper evoked
/ SblefE(T)rPTspazEm / laughter.
bitumastic Gk
spasmodic winking from the blouson
bituminous involuntary contraction of the n
adj orbicular muscle of the eyelids. / SblaUTzBn /
/ bISt(y)VmDnEs / Blepharospasm can usually be F
Celt? > L > E relieved by injecting small doses of a garment (as a dress or blouse)
impregnated with, infiltrated by, or botulinum toxin directly into the having a close waistband with
containing soft coal. muscles involved. material falling over it in loose
While doing research for her report folds.
on the Industrial Revolution, blew Serena wore a white blouson and
Hayley learned of the many uses long black skirt to the audition for
for bituminous coal. blighter Hedda Gabler.
blabber blinder blowtorch
blackbird bluegill
Page 32 of 289
blundering boeotian bonification
adj adj n
/ SblEndE(r)iN / / bGSPshEn / / TbBnEfDSkCshEn /
E Gk L
characterized by or given to marked by stupidity and betterment of housing conditions
moving unsteadily, confusedly, or philistinism : crudely obtuse : and farming practices in a
blindly : floundering. loutish. particular area.
The blundering bird flew into the John’s father adhered to the The Peace Corps engages in
picture window. boeotian mentality that only self- bonification in almost every
indulgent idlers go to college. underdeveloped country in the
blurred world.
adj boglet
/ SblErd / bonus
E? bogus n
smeared with or as if with ink. / SbPnEs /
The signature was blurred and bohemian L
couldn’t be read. something given or received that is
boing over and above what is expected.
blurry Tomi is off enjoying her year-end
bollard bonus, a week on a Caribbean
blustering n island.
/ SbBlE(r)d /
blustery (ON > E + Gmc > F > E)? bookkeeping
adj a single or double post of metal or
/ SblEst(E)rG / wood fixed on a pier or wharf and booklore
G? > E around which mooring lines are
blowing boisterously : stormy. thrown. bookmaker
The blustery weather forced NASA Kyle fastened the boat’s line to the n
to divert the returning space shuttle bollard and stepped out onto the / SbUkTmCkE(r) /
to a new landing site. pier. E+E
a printer, binder, or designer of
blutwurst bolus books.
Wendell was no run-of-the-mill
boardroom bombard bookmaker but an accomplished
artist whose works sold for
boastful bombardment thousands of dollars.
bodice bombardon booth
boding bombastic bordereau

v adj n
/ SbPdiN / / bBmSbastik / / SbOrdETrP /
E Per? > Gk > L > F + Ecf F
[has near homonym: boating] marked by or given to a pretentious [Note: Plural form can be
giving advance warning of. inflated style of speech or writing. pronounced identically.] a detailed
The winds and dark clouds are The candidate’s bombastic note or memorandum of account.
boding a heavy storm. speeches did little to gain votes. The insurance clerk spent half the
night before the audit trying to find
bodkin bombycine the missing bordereau.
n
/ SbBdkDn / bonbon boregat
E
a small slender instrument with a bondieuserie
sharp point for making holes in
cloth and leather and for picking boned
out bastings.
The church spire seemed from a
great distance like a bodkin.
Page 33 of 289
borough botryoidal bowered
n adj v
/ SbEr(T)P / / TbBtrGSOidFl / / SbaU(E)rd /
E Gk E
one of the five constituent political having the form of a bunch of formed a shelter or covered place in
divisions of New York City. grapes. a garden with branches of trees or
Many visitors are surprised to see Minerals presenting an vines twined together.
farmland in the borough of Staten aggregation of large sections of Bougainvillea bowered the front
Island. small globes are called porch of the old house.
“botryoidal.”
boroughreeve bottine boxwood
n
borrowed / bEStGn / bozzetto
F
Borsalino a woman’s light boot. bracemate
n Marguerite waited while the
/ TbOrsESlG(T)nP / cobbler put a new heel on her brachiation
It name bottine.
a wide-brimmed soft felt hat for brachiator
men. botulism
Roberto tilted back his Borsalino brachiosaur
and scratched his forehead, bouchon n
frowning at the shopkeeper. n / SbrakGPTsO(E)r /
/ bVSshBn / Gk
boson F a dinosaur of the genus
n a bushing pressed into a bridge or Brachiosaurus of the Upper
/ SbPTsBn / plate of a timepiece. Jurassic having longer forelegs than
Indian name + E The only thing wrong with Adam’s hind legs.
[Note: Could be confused with pocket watch was a broken The 110-million-year-old fossil is
boatswain.] a particle (as a photon, bouchon. believed to be part of a rib of a
meson, or alpha particle) having gigantic herbivorous brachiosaur.
zero spin or an integral number of bouffancy
quantum units of spin and bracket
conforming to the Bose-Einstein bouffant
statistics. bracteose
Researchers in elementary particle bouilli adj
physics are searching for a particle / SbraktGTPs /
known as the Higgs boson, which is bouncily L
connected with the weak nuclear adv having numerous or conspicuous
force. / SbaUn(t)sDlG / modified leaves from which a
imit E + Ecf flower rises.
bosselated with verve : jauntily, springily. Of all bracteose plants, the
Joyce skipped bouncily through the poinsettia is probably the most
boswellize park on her way home from school. familiar.
v
/ SbBzwETlIz / bourgade bradenhead
Scot + Ecf
write of in the manner of one who boutade braggart
writes with love for and intimate n n
knowledge of any subject. / bVStBd / / SbragE(r)t /
It would be difficult for anyone to F E
boswellize America’s favorite an outbreak or burst especially of a loud or arrogant boaster.
pastime better than Ken Burns did temper. The braggart exaggerated his
in his documentary Baseball. When the general received news of fishing stories so much that no one
his losses, he reacted with a violent would believe him.
boutade.
braggartism
boutique
bragget
Page 34 of 289
Brahmsian breadth brethren
adj n n pl
/ SbrBmzGEn / / Sbredth / / SbreL(E)rDn /
G name E E
of or relating to Johannes Brahms distance from side to side. ones related or linked by some
or his musical compositions. The breadth of the church’s common tie or interest (as of shared
Ulla thought she knew the whole transept is 54 feet. rank, profession, membership in a
Brahmsian oeuvre, but she could society, suffering, or labor).
not recognize the piece that Mirga breadwinner People at the ecumenical service
played. agree that they are brethren of the
break same principle.
braid
bream breton
braille n
breaststroke / SbretFn /
braillist L>F
breathe a woman’s hat made on a basic
brainchild pattern of round crown and wide
breathing even brim that is curved upward all
brake around.
breathlessly Before putting on her breton, Emily
brandishing adv trimmed it with a bright red peony.
v / SbrethlDslG /
/ SbrandishiN / E + Ecff breviary
Gmc > F > E in a manner bringing about or n
shaking or waving (a weapon) marked by being out of breath / SbrGv(y)ErG /
menacingly. because of fear, suspense, awe, or L
“That’s why I drove him off,” cried other strong emotion. an ecclesiastical book containing
the Humbug, fiercely brandishing Ken breathlessly opened the door the daily public or canonical
his cane. to the attic to find that a cat was prayers for the canonical hours.
responsible for the yowling sounds. Kristin opened her breviary to read
brandtite the prayer for vespers.
brecciated
brashly adj brewery
/ SbrechGTCZDd /
bratling It brickkiln
marked by sharp fragments of rock n
bravado embedded in a fine-grained matrix / SbrikTkil(n) /
n of clay or sand. E
/ brESvB(T)dP / The countertop was made of a a kiln in which bricks are baked or
Sp beautifully polished slab of burned.
showy or demonstrative conduct or brecciated stone. Ethan spent the summer operating
action often characterized by the brickkiln in the colonial village.
bluster and swagger. brecciation
Much of Leo’s arrogance is based bricklayer
on bravado and cannot be breechloader
supported by competence. brief
breezeway
brawl brigandage
n
/ SbrOl / brilliance
E
a loud, angry, or disorderly quarrel. brilliantine
Vincent couldn’t resist joining in
the playground brawl.
Page 35 of 289
brindisi brontophobia bubbly
n n adj
/ SbrindD(T)zG / / TbrBntESfPbGE / / SbEb(E)lG /
G > It Gk E
a drinking or toasting song. abnormal fear of thunder. exhibiting almost unrestrainable
The bride and groom were wished As he got older, Xavier gradually enthusiasm or happy emotion :
good health and happiness in a overcame his brontophobia. effervescent.
traditional brindisi. The bubbly tourists spent the
broth evening rehashing the day’s
brindle n sightseeing trip.
/ brOth /
brisance E bubonic
liquid in which meat, fish, cereal
brisket grains, or vegetables have been buccal
cooked.
bristle Mother made two quarts of broth buccinators
from the leftover chicken. n pl
bristly / SbEksETnCZE(r)z /
adj brownie L
/ Sbris(E)lG / thin broad muscles forming the
E brunizem walls of the cheeks.
consisting of or like short stiff n As the trumpeter played, his
coarse hair. / brVnESzem / buccinators rhythmically expanded
Trudy pictured her uncle with a L + Russ and contracted.
bristly brown mustache, even after a soil of the prairies developed
he had shaved it off. from loess and occurring budget
extensively in Iowa.
brittle Corn usually thrives in the rich buffa
brunizem of Iowa. n
broccoli / SbVfE /
brunneous It
brogan adj a woman singer of comic roles in
n / SbrEnGEs / opera.
/ SbrPgEn / Gmc > L + Ecf Lorelei admired the beautiful voice
IrGael dark brown—used chiefly of the buffa in the Metropolitan
a heavy shoe; especially : a coarse scientifically. Opera production of Cosi Fan
leather work shoe reaching to the Hatchery officials were worried Tutte.
ankle. about brunneous spots on the fish
Just after getting out of bed, Cal eggs. buffet
tripped over a brogan and fell on
the sleeping dog. brusquely buffeting
n
broguing brusqueness / SbEfDZiN /
F
brokerage bryophyte repeated alteration of the
n aerodynamic forces acting on any
bromine / SbrIETfIt / part of an airplane in flight.
Gk + Gk Chuck Yeager’s plane was subject
bronchospasm a plant of a division of to severe buffeting as it approached
n nonflowering plants comprising the the sound barrier.
/ SbrBN(T)kPTspazEm / mosses and liverworts.
Gk The botanist said that the earliest bufflehorn
constriction of the air passages of land plant was probably a
the lung by spasmodic contraction bryophyte.
of the bronchial muscles (as in
asthma).
In many asthmatics, exercise can
provoke bronchospasm.
Page 36 of 289
Bugaku bumpkins burglarious
n n pl adj
/ bVSgB(T)kV / / SbEm(p)kDnz / / TbErSgla(a)rGEs /
Jpn D > Flemish? Gmc > L > AF
a stately classical Japanese dance typically awkward blockish and of or suitable for the use of one
originally introduced from China. utterly unsophisticated rustics. who breaks into a building illegally
The visiting dance troupe With the girls as an audience, the especially with intent to steal.
performed a Bugaku in the boys were acting like bumpkins. The prosecutor asked the defendant
emperor’s honor. to explain why he had burglarious
bungle tools in his automobile.
bugia
n bunion burglary
/ Sb(y)Vj(G)E / n
Algerian geog name > L bunker / SbErglErG /
a low candlestick with a short n Gmc > L > AF
handle. / SbENkE(r) / the act of breaking into a building
Marlo keeps a bugia on her bedside E? > Sc illegally especially with intent to
table. a sand trap or embankment with steal.
soil exposed constituting a hazard More than once Blake committed
bugle on a golf course. burglary to get money to pay his
Ronnie’s first shot off the tee flew gambling debts.
bulbously 150 yards directly into a bunker.
burgonet
bulimic bunkhouse n
/ SbErgEnDt /
bulk bunting F geog name
a light 16th-century helmet having
bulldozer Bunyanesque cheekpieces and sometimes a
adj nosepiece.
bulliform / TbEnyESnesk / The French commander checked to
Amer name see that every footsoldier was
bullpen of or befitting the tales of Paul carrying a pike and was wearing a
Bunyan; especially : of fantastically burgonet.
bulwark large size.
No amount of food can satisfy burgundy
bulwarks Raymond’s Bunyanesque appetite. n
n pl / SbErgEndG /
/ SbUlwE(r)ks / buoy F geog name
G>D>E a variable color averaging a dark
imposing safeguards. burden grayish reddish brown that is
Elizabeth fought tirelessly to redder and duller than mahogany.
counter the opposition of those burdensome The students at the new high school
entrenched behind the bulwarks of adj voted for burgundy and gray as
custom and authority. / SbErdFnsEm / their school colors.
E + Ecf
bumblebee difficult or distressing to carry or to burial
n bear.
/ SbEmbElTbG / Tia found running the snack bar a burinist
E burdensome responsibility.
any of numerous large robust hairy burladero
yellow-and-black social bees of the bureau
genus Bombus. burlap
The nest of the bumblebee is bureaucratese
usually underground. burlesquing
burelage
burgeoned
burglar
Page 37 of 289
burro butylene cabecera
n n n
/ SbEr(T)P / / SbyVZFlTGn / / TkabESserE /
L > Sp ISV Sp
[has homonyms: borough, burrow] any of three isomeric hydrocarbons the chief city of a province or
donkey. of the ethylene series obtained district in a Spanish-speaking
The easy pace and sure step of the usually by cracking petroleum. country.
burro make it a good pack animal. Because butylene is highly The town of Santiago de
flammable, it is hazardous to work Compostela has been the cabecera
bushido with. of Galicia since medieval times.
bushy Byronic cabinetry

adj adj
/ SbUshG / / bISrBnik / cablegram
E + Ecf E name
resembling a shrub : thick and of, relating to, or having the cabotinage
spreading. characteristics of the poet Byron or n
There was one part of the wall his writings, usually involving / SkabEtDTnBzh /
where the creeping dark green hatred of mankind or distrust of F name + Fcf
leaves were more bushy than human nature. behavior befitting a second-rate
elsewhere. His attitude and his smile were actor : theatricality.
Byronic, at once world-weary and To fit the tone of a 19th-century
buskin contemptuous. melodrama, the actors indulged in
n a good deal of deliberate
/ SbEskDn / byssus cabotinage.
Sp
a strong thick-soled laced foot cabal cabretta
covering with a legging reaching
halfway or more to the knee. cabaletta cabriolet
Emma found her kitten sound n
asleep inside her fur-lined buskin. / TkabESleZE / cachepot
L > OProv > It
bustle the lively conclusion of an aria or cacoepy
duet.
bustling The tenor ended the cabaletta on a cactus
adj high C, inspiring the audience to
/ SbEs(E)liN / respond with a standing ovation. cadenza
ON > E + Ecf
given to or full of noisy or cabalist cadge
energetic activity.
As they strolled along the bustling cabalistic caffeinic
and busy avenue, he began. adj
caballero / kaSfGnik /
butane n Turk > F> G
/ TkabESle(E)(T)rP / of or containing caffeine.
butterflies L > Sp Cindy relied on the caffeinic effects
n pl knight, cavalier. of coffee to energize her in the
/ SbEZE(r)TflIz / For Halloween Kenny dressed as a morning.
E Spanish caballero and rode his
any of several slender-bodied pony from house to house. cahoots
diurnal insects that have very large n pl
broad wings which are often cabasa / kEShVtz /
strikingly colored and patterned. F
The formerly quiet field erupted collusion, connivance.
with beautiful red butterflies. Thelma suspected her brothers
were in cahoots against her, but
buttermilk she had no proof.
Page 38 of 289
cajoled calefactory Cambodian
v n
/ kESjPld / caliga / kamSbPdGEn /
F n Asian geog name
obtained (an object or favor) from / SkalDgE / the language of the Cambodians,
someone by persuading with L which is of Mon-Khmer origin.
deliberate flattery : wheedled. a heavy-soled Roman military shoe Sunita surprised her boss when she
Sally raves about the time she or sandal worn by all ranks up to volunteered to learn Cambodian
cajoled a lock of hair from the and including centurions. for his research.
football team captain. The emperor Caligula was named
after the caliga, which he was fond cambric
cakewalk of wearing as a boy.
n cameist
/ SkCkTwOk / callee
ON > E > E camellia
a stage dance developed from calligraphy
walking steps, especially a high- Camembert
stepping prance with a backward calliopean n
tilt. / SkamEmTbe(E)r /
The cakewalk was originally calomel F geog name
performed in competitions where n a soft unpressed cheese having a
the prize was a cake. / SkalEmEl / characteristic odor and flavor
Gk > L produced by the presence of a blue
calamitous a white tasteless salt used as a mold and usually covered with a
cathartic, fungicide, and feltlike rind inside which the
calamondin insecticide. cheese softens progressively
Years ago calomel was an toward the center.
calando ingredient in medicine, but now it Brenda served a ripe Camembert
is found mostly in insecticides and after the dessert course.
calceiform fungicides.
adj cameral
/ SkalsGETfOrm / calorimeter
L n cameraman
shaped like a slipper. / TkalESrimEZE(r) / n
Fictional detective Nero Wolfe L + Gk > Ecf / Skam(E)rETman /
cultivated certain orchids for the any of several apparatuses for L+E
calceiform lip in their flowers. measuring quantities of absorbed or [Note: An alternate pronunciation
evolved heat or for determining can be confused with plural form of
calceus specific heats. word.] an operator of a motion-
n The calorimeter is designed to picture or television camera.
/ SkalsGEs / minimize heat loss during The cameraman said he was
L measurement. willing to travel anywhere to cover
an ancient Roman ankle-length breaking news stories.
shoe usually of leather. calumniate
The calceus was the preferred shoe camorra
of Roman city dwellers. calvary
campaign
caldera calyx
n n campanologist
/ kalSderE / / SkCliks / n
L > Sp Gk / TkampESnBlEjDst /
a crater much greater in diameter the outer set of floral leaves making L + Gk
than the vent of the volcano with up the external part of the flower. maker of bells.
which it is associated. Once the flower’s petals fell, the The campanologist beamed with
The volcano’s eruption was so green calyx seemed much more pride every time he heard the
violent that it blew away the cone, attractive. cathedral carillon.
leaving a vast caldera.
campanology
calefaction
Page 39 of 289
campesino cancer cantabile
n n adv
/ TkampESsG(T)nP / / Skan(t)sE(r) / / kBnStBbDTlC /
L > Sp L>E L > It
a native of a Latin-American rural a malignant tumor of potentially in a singing manner :
area; especially : a Latin-American unlimited growth. melodiously—often used as a
Indian farmer or farm laborer. Chemotherapy proved quite direction in music.
The elderly campesino was the effective in treating Kristin’s The second movement’s most
village’s historian, weather cancer. memorable theme was
forecaster, and mediator. appropriately played cantabile.
candidate
campestral canticle
candidly n
camphoric adv / SkantDkEl /
/ SkandDdlG / L
campimeter F&L song, poem, hymn.
n in a disinterested, fair, or just Scott left church humming the
/ kamSpimEZE(r) / manner. canticle “Nunc Dimittis.”
(L + Gk) > ISV Fiona candidly admitted to having cantillate
an instrument for testing indirect or taken the money but refused to v
peripheral visual perception of admit she had acted wrongfully. / SkantFlTCt /
form and color. L
When Mrs. Dunn developed candle recite with musical usually
cataracts, her doctor used a improvised tones (as in synagogues
campimeter to measure vision candlelight and highly liturgical churches) :
impairment. n chant.
/ SkandFlTlIt / The congregation knelt as the choir
Canaan L>E+E began to cantillate the 23rd Psalm.
n the light of a candle.
/ SkCnEn / C. J. sat by candlelight in his study cantina
Heb > Gk and thought about the last eight n
a promised land : place of rest, years of his life. / kanStGnE /
reward, or fulfillment. It > Sp
Mrs. Gruber, who will be 100 years canepin a small barroom : saloon.
old on her next birthday, talks often In the very first Star Wars movie, a
of seeing her loved ones again in canister scene set in a cantina features
Canaan. many interesting aliens.
cannibals
canal cantle
cannonball n
cancel / SkantFl /
canonicity F>E
cancellation [has near homonym: candle] the
canorous upwardly projecting rear part of a
cancelli saddle.
n pl cantabank Only the cantle prevented the rider
/ kanSseTlI / n from falling out of the saddle when
L / SkantETbaNk / the warhorse reared.
screens or rails typically of Gmc > L > It
latticework or stone grating used to a singer from benches or platforms
enclose or separate a part of a : a ballad singer.
church. The cantabank strolling through
From the style of the church’s the streets of the amusement park
cancelli, the church was built in the was not an employee, though he
16th century. gave that impression to his
onlookers.
Page 40 of 289
canton capriccio carapace
n n n
/ SkantFn / / kESprG(T)chP / / SkarETpCs /
L > Prov > F It Sp > F
[Note: The definition provided is an instrumental piece in free form a bony or chitinous case or shield
not the one most commonly usually lively in tempo and brilliant covering the back or part of the
associated with this word.] any one in style. back of an animal (as the upper
of the spaces in the four corners of When feeling depressed, Kate plays shell of a turtle, the shell of an
a heraldic field. a recording of a capriccio to lift armadillo, or the shell of a crab).
Each canton of the coat of arms her spirits. Glenda saw an armadillo carapace
was a different color. for the first time when her family
caprices went to Florida on vacation.
caparisoned n pl
/ kESprGsDz / caravel
capeador L > It > F
n sudden impulsive apparently carbine
/ kApCASLOr / unmotivated changes of mind.
Sp Ms. Lawrence understands the carbon
a bullfighter’s aide who uses a cape caprices of children and thus has a
to distract or excite the bull. high tolerance for their whims. carbuncle
As the capeador teased the bull at n
the other end of the stadium, capriole / SkBrTbENkEl /
Manuela had time to recover from L>F>E
her fall. capsheaf a painful local inflammation of the
n skin and deeper tissues, usually
caper / SkapTshGf / accompanied by fever.
n L>E+E Dr. Morton applied a topical
/ SkCpE(r) / the crowning point : acme, climax. antibiotic to the carbuncle on
L > It Ingrid thought the stranger’s insult Jason’s neck.
a capricious or madcap escapade : to his benefactor was the capsheaf
prank, antic. of folly. carcajou
Roberto’s little caper resulted in a n
three-day suspension from school. captain / SkBrkETjV /
Alqonquian > F
capered caption a northern North American
carnivorous mammal that is
capitol captious blackish with a light brown band on
each side of the body and that is
capitulation capture noted especially for its strength :
n wolverine.
/ kETpichESlCshEn / carambola Over soft, deep snow the large feet
L n of the carcajou enable it to catch
the act or agreement of one that / TkarEmSbPlE / its reindeer prey.
surrenders to an enemy upon Marathi > Pg
stipulated terms. [Note: Could be confused with carcinogenic
The capitulation of the army took carambole.] a green to yellow adj
place on the battlefield at noon. usually somewhat acid fruit that is / TkBrsFn(T)PSjenik /
much used in Chinese cookery : Gk + Gk
capitulum star fruit. producing or tending to produce
The slices of carambola on the fruit cancer.
capote tray disappeared rapidly as the Thorald pointed out to his daughter
n guests passed by the food table. Sam that thousands of naturally
/ kESpPt / occurring chemicals have
F carcinogenic effects.
a small Victorian bonnet with tie
strings and varied trimmings. cardiogram
Martha trimmed her capote with
colorful embroideries for festive
occasions.
Page 41 of 289
carditis caribe caritative
n adj
/ kBrSdIZDs / caricatured / SkarETtCZiv /
L v L
inflammation of the heart muscle. / SkarDkETchU(E)rd / charitable in nature or tendency.
Carditis is one of the L > It After the fire, the caritative
manifestations of rheumatic fever. represented in exaggeration by impulses of utter strangers restored
means of deliberate simplification Josh’s faith in humanity.
careen and often ludicrous distortion of
v parts or characteristics. carmagnole
/ kESrGn / Those who inaugurated the n
L > It > F movement for women’s / TkBrmEnSyPl /
cause (a boat) to lean over on one enfranchisement were initially It geog name > F
side (as on a beach) making the censured and caricatured by the a street dance in a meandering
other side accessible for repairs press. course to the tune of a lively song
below the waterline. popular at the time of the first
The crew decided to haul the boat caries French Revolution.
onto the beach and careen it so that n pl Christine and Jean-Paul danced
they could repair the hull. / Ska(E)rGz / the carmagnole at the street fair in
L Marseilles.
career [has homonym: carries] tooth
decay. carmine
carefree Daily flossing and brushing help n
adj keep caries at bay. / SkBrTmIn /
/ Ske(E)rTfrG / (L + Ar) > L > F
E+E carination a vivid red pigment used as a
having no worries : happy. n biological stain and as a coloring in
Grandpa reminisced about the days / TkarESnCshEn / foods, drugs, and cosmetics.
of his youth, when he was playful L Yolanda’s father snidely remarked
and carefree. the quality or state of being shaped that her lipstick contained a little
like the keel or prow of a ship. too much carmine.
careless The architect created a whimsical
seaside building with a definite carnauba
caress carination at the front.
carol
caret carioca
n Carolingian
cargador / TkarGSPkE / adj
n Tupi > Pg / TkarESlinj(G)En /
/ SkBrgETdO(E)r / [has near homonym: karaoke] the Gk > G > L
Sp samba adapted to ballroom of or relating to a Frankish family
one who works at or who is dancing. that was founded about A.D. 613
responsible for the loading or The carioca is a very lively dance and including among its members
unloading of a ship in port. that originated in Brazil. the rulers of France from 751 to
Tina had her picture taken with a 987, of Italy from 774 to 961, and
burly cargador at the wharf. cariogenic of Germany from 752 to 911.
adj Charles the Fat, a Carolingian
Caribbean / Tka(a)rGPSjenik / monarch, ruled in Italy until A.D.
adj L > Gk 887.
/ kESribGEn / conducive to the development of
Arawak > Sp + Ecf tooth decay. carom
of, relating to, or characteristic of The combination of saliva with
the eastern and southern West food is the first step in digestion; carpentry
Indies. unfortunately, it is also very
Whenever Ellie thinks about cariogenic. carpet
Caribbean music, she hears in her
head the brilliant sound of steel carpetbagger
drums.
Page 42 of 289
carrosserie Cassiopeian catafalque
n adj n
/ kArOsrG / / TkasGESpG(y)En / / SkaZETfalk /
L > It > F Gk name > L + Ecf L > It
the carriage body of an automobile. of or relating to the constellation an ornamental sometimes very
A display in the transportation Cassiopeia. elaborate structure used in many
museum showed how the Dr. Giddings insisted that he had churches in solemn funerals for the
carrosserie of an early Model T never heard of a Cassiopeian lying in state of the body.
Ford was made. meteor shower. Many mourners stood in line to
walk by and touch the velvet-
cartographers cassock draped catafalque.
n pl n
/ kBrStBgrEfErz / / SkasEk / catalineta
Gk > L Per > F n
individuals who make maps. a long close-fitting garment / TkaZFlESneZE /
The package contains several reaching to the feet that is worn by Gk > L > Sp
brochures and a city map, which the clergy of certain churches often any of several angelfishes.
was carefully drawn by master during divine service and by A catalineta can grow up to two
cartographers and is current. choristers and vergers. feet in length.
The acolyte’s mother gasped as her
cartridge eyes traveled from her child’s catalysis
cassock to his basketball shoes. n
cartwheel / kEStalEsDs /
cassolette Gk
cartwright the change in the rate of a chemical
castellan reaction brought about by often
casein n small amounts of a substance that is
n / SkastElEn / unchanged chemically at the end of
/ SkCTsGn / L>F>E the reaction.
L>F a governor or warden of a castle or Enzymes speed up many chemical
[Note: Could be confused with fort. reactions in the body through
casing.] the principal protein of Richard played the part of the catalysis.
cheese. castellan during the medieval fair.
Arlene saved the company catamnesis
thousands of dollars by lowering castellate n
the proportion of casein used in its / TkaZamSnGsDs /
mozzarella. castellated Gk
the follow-up medical history of a
cashmerette castle patient.
Once the patient’s catamnesis was
casket cataclasm complete, the records were placed
in long-term file storage.
casque catacombs
n n pl cataplexy
/ Skask / / SkaZETkPmz /
Sp&F Gk > L > It > F catarrhal
[has homonym: cask] a piece of a subterranean cemetery consisting
armor for the head : a helmet or of galleries or passages with side catastrophic
military headpiece of any kind. recesses for tombs.
The museum acquired a 15th- Our visit to Rome included a tour catbird
century casque for its medieval of the catacombs.
armor display. catchpenny
cassation catchword
cassette
cassideous
Page 43 of 289
catechistic cayenne celestina
adj n
/ TkaZESkistik / / kISen / cellar
Gk > L French Guiana geog name
of or relating to a teacher of moral a very hot and pungent powder cellblock
and religious doctrine or to the made by drying and grinding the
material taught by such a teacher. whole fruits or the seeds of several celluloid
After a period of catechistic hot peppers. n
instruction, Greg was ready to be Paolo’s chili was too mild, so he / SselyETlOid /
received as a full member of the sprinkled some cayenne on it. trademark
church. motion-picture film.
ceaselessly The celluloid used for the movie
catena weighed about 300 pounds.
n cebell
/ kEStGnE / Celsius
L cedar adj
a connected series of related things. / SselsGEs /
While at camp, Lorna and Beatrice celebrate Sw name
made up a catena of funny songs v relating to, conforming to, or
about their bunkmates. / SselETbrCt / having the international
L thermometric scale on which 0 is
catheter demonstrate grateful and happy the freezing point and 100 is the
satisfaction in (as an anniversary or boiling point of water.
caulicle event) by engaging in festivities, Normal human body temperature is
n merrymaking, or other similar 37 degrees Celsius.
/ SkOlDkEl / deviation from accustomed routine.
L About 100 friends and relatives cembalist
a rudimentary stem; specifically : attended the party to celebrate
the stem of an embryo or young Mom and Dad’s 50th wedding cementitious
seedling. anniversary.
After planting the corn seed, the cenote
biology class eventually was able celebratory n
to observe the development of the adj / sDSnPZG /
caulicle, from which the first roots / SselEbrETtPrG / Maya > Sp
grew. L a deep sinkhole especially in
used or intended for use in Central America and the Yucatán
caulicolous celebrating a solemn or festive peninsula having a pool at the
adj occasion. bottom fed by the water table;
/ kOSlikElEs / The champions were feted at a especially : such a natural well into
L celebratory dinner at which the which sacrificial offerings were
growing on the stems of other trophies were presented. thrown in Mayan ceremonies.
plants. Kirsty went cavern diving in a
During our hike Mom pointed out celerity cenote during her vacation on the
the caulicolous fungi on the trees. Yucatán peninsula.
celesta
cauliflorous n censer
/ sDSlestE / n
caulome L>F / Ssen(t)sE(r) /
[Note: Could be confused with L>F>E
causable celeste.] a keyboard instrument a vessel for burning incense.
having an action like that of a piano The bell rings, the censer swings,
causative with hammers that strike steel and chants fill the air in the chapel
plates suspended above wooden on Sunday.
cautious resonance boxes and producing a
tone similar to that of a censorship
cavity glockenspiel.
For the talent competition Trish censure
caxon performed a medley of Gershwin
tunes on the celesta. centrally
Page 44 of 289
centuple cerebellum cetacean
n n
centurion / TserESbelEm / / sGStCshEn /
n L Gk > L
/ senSt(y)UrGEn / a large lower back part of the brain any of an order of aquatic mostly
L that is concerned especially with marine mammals including the
an officer commanding 100 men. the coordination of muscles and the whales, dolphins, porpoises, and
Divisions called “cohorts” in the maintenance of equilibrium. related forms that have a tapered
ancient Roman army were Sheila’s vertigo results from nearly hairless body, paddle-shaped
subdivided into groups of 100 damage to her cerebellum. forelimbs, no hind limbs, and a
soldiers, each of which was flattened tail.
commanded by a centurion. cerebral Moby Dick is the most famous
cetacean in American literature.
cephalic cerebrate
adj v chablis
/ sDSfalik / / SserETbrCt /
Gk L + Ecf chafe
of or relating to the head. use the mind : think.
The cephalic veins in the arm are Sharon went to the library so that chairborne
so called because it was once she could cerebrate without adj
believed that they were related to interruptions from her brothers. / Sche(E)rTbO(E)rn /
certain ailments of the head. Gk > L > F > E + E
cerebriform assigned to a desk job : not serving
Cerberean in the field or in combat—used
adj ceremonious originally and especially of military
/ sE(r)SbirGEn / officers.
Gk name > L ceremoniously After three years of being
of, relating to, or like a watchdog. adv chairborne, Sandy decided to
Dobie is the best Cerberean / TserESmPnGEslG / resign from the Marines.
creature one could hope to have. Etruscan? > L
in an elaborate or punctilious chaise
cerberus manner.
n Paul reached inside his coat chalcedonyx
/ SsErb(E)rEs / pocket, drew out a small velvet box,
Gk > L and handed it ceremoniously to his chaldron
watchdog, gatekeeper, custodian. girlfriend. n
As school treasurer, Tony refers to / SchOldrEn /
himself as the cerberus of the ceremony F
school’s coffers. a unit of measure for coal equal to
ceriman 36 bushels or 25½ hundredweight.
cerci Before 1963 in Great Britain,
n pl certain people were accustomed to
/ SsErTsI / ordering coal by the chaldron.
Gk > L certificate
paired appendages believed to be chalet
sensory situated at the tip of the certitude
abdomen in many insects. chalkography
The cerci on some insects are also cervine
modified limbs. challenging
cession
chamade
chameleon
Page 45 of 289
chameleonic chanoyu charisma
adj n n
/ kETmGlGSBnik / / TchBnPSyV / / kESrizmE /
Gk > L > F > E Jpn Gk
like a chameleon in changeability; an elaborate Japanese tea a personal magic of leadership
assuming varying hues. ceremony. arousing special popular loyalty or
The military hopes to develop Mariko performed the chanoyu for enthusiasm for a public figure.
chameleonic suits so soldiers can her guests with serene grace. John F. Kennedy is often named as
blend in with different a leader with charisma.
backgrounds. chaperonage
charismatic
champion chapiter adj
adj / TkarDzSmaZik /
/ SchampGEn / chaplain Gk
Gmc > L > F > E of or relating to the religious
acknowledged as supreme over chapter movement that emphasizes the
contestants or rivals. extraordinary power (as of healing)
Scott is the champion golfer in his characin given a Christian by the Holy
age group at his country club. Spirit.
charade The charismatic movement in
chanceman American religion began in the
charades early 1960s, when a California
chancery n pl minister announced to his
n / shESrCdz / congregation that he had been
/ Schan(t)s(E)rG / Prov > F given the gift of tongues.
L>F>E a game in which a group is divided
a record office for the collection, into two sides each alternately charitable
arrangement, and safekeeping of devising words represented in
public archives and ecclesiastical, riddling verse or by pictures or charitarian
legal, or diplomatic proceedings. dramatic action to be guessed by
The diocese requires that each the other. Charleston
pastor submit a financial report to The dinner party was n
the chancery at least once a year. complemented by a most animated / SchBrlztEn /
evening of charades. US geog name
chandler a ballroom dance in which the
charcuterie knees are twisted in and out and the
chandlery n heels are swung sharply outward on
n / (T)shBrTkVZESrG / each step.
/ SchandlErG / L>F Jana has an old photograph of her
L > F > E + Ecf a delicatessen in France great-grandmother doing the
a place where candles are kept. specializing in dressed meats and Charleston.
The altar boy spent the afternoon meat dishes (as cold cuts and
reorganizing the chandlery. sausages). Charybdis
Loraine stopped at the charcuterie n
changa and bought a smoked chicken for / kESribdDs /
n supper. Gk > L
/ SchaNgE / a destructive peril—usually used as
Sp chard the alternative to Scylla.
a large brown mole cricket. Whether to tell the truth or to lie is
The changa is a destructive pest to chardonnay sometimes a choice between Scylla
crops. and Charybdis.
changer chasten
Page 46 of 289
chastise chechia chela
v n n
/ SchaTstIz / / SshCshTyB / / SkGlE /
L>F>E Per geog name > Maghribi > F Gk
censure severely in an attempt to a cylindrical brimless cap of Arab a pincerlike organ or claw borne by
correct or improve. origin often having a tassel on the certain of the limbs of Crustacea
Ms. Stanton protested a form of crown. and Arachnida.
government that she believed gave When Gordon arrived in Morocco, Rush cracked open the lobster’s
a man the power to chastise and he was greeted by a tour guide chela and feasted on the meat
imprison his wife. wearing a red chechia. inside.
chastisement checkered chemical

n
/ chaSstIzmEnt / cheddar chemise
L>F>E
punishment. cheerful chemisette
Hazel’s mother required her to adj n
spend an hour in her room as / SchirfEl / / TshemGSzet /
chastisement for disobeying. G? > L? > F > E F
full of good spirits arising from a a woman’s vestlike outergarment or
chatelaine carefree attitude and a bright lively undergarment.
n disposition. For his wife’s birthday present, Ted
/ SshaZFlTCn / Linda appeared relaxed and bought a silk chemisette
L>F cheerful as she began skating for embroidered with roses.
[has homonym: chatelain] an the judges.
ornamental chain or clasp usually chemosphere
worn at a woman’s waist to which chef
trinkets, keys, a purse, or other n chemurgy
articles are attached. / Sshef /
Melissa has an antique chatelaine L>F>E cherries
that her great-grandmother used to one skilled in food preparation who
hold her needle case, magnifying has charge of the kitchen and cherubic
glass, and a small pair of scissors. kitchen personnel in a large
establishment (as a hotel or chervil
chaton restaurant).
Before he became a famous chest
chatterbox television personality, Emeril n
n Lagasse was a chef at several fine / Schest /
/ SchaZE(r)TbBks / restaurants. E
E the part of the body enclosed by the
one who talks incessantly and idly. cheka ribs and breastbone.
Before the party, Alex had no idea n Herman has a mole right in the
that Serena was such a chatterbox. / SchC(T)kB / middle of his chest.
Russ
chattering secret police (as of the former chevalet
v U.S.S.R.) having virtually
/ SchaZE(r)iN / unrestrained power over life and chevaline
imit > E death.
uttering rapidly succeeding sounds The dissidents were detained and chevon
somewhat like language but tortured for months by the cheka. n
inarticulate and indistinct. / SshevEn /
The squirrel was chattering F+F>E
furiously at the magpies who had the flesh of the goat used as food.
stolen its food. To many inhabitants of the tropics,
chevon is as palatable as mutton.
chauffeuse
chevron
chewy
Page 47 of 289
chiack chippendale chiropody
adj n
chiaroscurist / SchipEnTdCl / / kESrBpEdG /
n E name Gk
/ TkyBrESsk(y)UrDst / relating to a style of 18th century the care and treatment of the human
L > It furniture. foot in health and disease.
an artist who uses the arrangement Mrs. Davis planned to bid on the Dr. Griffin was the only
or treatment of the light and dark chippendale chair at the auction. practitioner of chiropody in the
parts in a pictorial work of art. town.
The chiaroscurist deftly conveyed chipper
the mood in black and white. adj chiropractor
/ SchipE(r) / n
chiaroscuro E / SkIrETpraktEr /
being in high spirits : cheerful, Gk + Gk + Ecf
chiasmus sprightly. a practitioner of a system of healing
n Kyle has good reason to be based upon the theory that disease
/ kISazmEs / chipper: His real estate business is results from a lack of normal nerve
Gk thriving. function and employing treatment
the inversion of the order of by scientific manipulation and
syntactical elements in the second chirognomy specific adjustment of body
of two juxtaposed and syntactically n structures (as the spinal column).
parallel phrases or clauses. / kISrBgnEmG / Joanne scheduled a visit to the
Chiasmus is frequent in Greek and Gk chiropractor after a flare-up of her
Latin poetry. the art or practice of reading a back pain.
person’s character or aptitudes and
chic especially his past and possible chirp
future from the general character
chickaree and shape of his hands and fingers chirr
and the lines, Mounts, and marks
chief on the palms. chistka
Heather read a pamphlet on
chifforobe chirognomy in preparation for her chitin
role as a palm reader at the fall n
chilblain festival. / SkItFn /
Gk > F
childishly chiromancer [has homonym: chiton] a tough
horny substance that makes up the
chiliast chiromegaly bulk of the insect cuticle.
n Chitin serves as a protection for an
chiliastic / TkIrESmegElG / insect.
adj Gk
/ TkilGSastik / abnormal increase in the size of the chloasma
Gk + Ecff hands. n
relating to belief in the millennium The distraught parents called the / klPSazmE /
of Christian prophecy. pediatrician with the claim that Gk
Leonard listened with interest to their daughter had a case of a skin discoloration marked by
the fiery chiliastic sermon of the chiromegaly. yellowish brown pigmented
street preacher. patches or spots—called also “liver
chiroplasty spots.”
chinoiserie n Because conforming is important to
n / SkIrETplastG / small children, they have trouble
/ TshGnTwBz(E)SrG / Gk > L ignoring things like chloasma.
F plastic surgery of the hand.
a style in art (as in decoration) Zeke was not looking forward to chlore
reflecting or felt to reflect Chinese undergoing chiroplasty.
artistic motifs. chlorinator
Chinoiserie was popular in 18th-
century English furniture design.
Page 48 of 289
chloroform choreograph chromatin
n v n
/ SklPrETfOrm / / SkOrGETgraf / / SkrPmEtDn /
(Gk + L) > F Gk > F Gk > ISV > G
a colorless volatile heavy toxic compose dance movements and the part of a cell nucleus that stains
liquid of ethereal odor and sweetish patterns (as for a ballet). intensely with basic dyes.
taste used chiefly as a solvent and The famous dancer asked The microbiologist stained the
especially formerly as a general Balanchine to choreograph a bacteria cells with various dyes to
anesthetic. special ballet for her. show the chromatin.
The comedian explained that his
new perfume was made from a choreutic chromatosis
secret mixture of lanolin and adj n
chloroform. / kESrVZik / / TkrPmEStPsDs /
Gk Gk
chlorosis of or belonging to a chorus. pigmentation; specifically : deposit
n There are many choreutic parts in of pigment in a normally
/ klESrPsDs / the ballet The Nutcracker. unpigmented area or excessive
Gk pigmentation in a normally
a diseased condition in chlorophyll- choriamb pigmented area.
bearing plants manifested as the The condition called “liver spots”
yellowing or blanching of the chorine is one kind of chromatosis.
normally green parts due to causes n
other than the absence of light (as / SkOrTGn / chrome
attacks of parasites or mineral Gk
deficiencies). a young woman who sings or chromometer
The philodendron in Cathy’s dances in the chorus of a theatrical n
kitchen exhibits an advanced stage production. / krPSmBmEZE(r) /
of chlorosis. Lisa has the part of a chorine in the Gk
musical Funny Girl. an apparatus for comparing the
chocolaty color of a substance with a standard
adj chose especially to determine the degree
/ SchBklDZG / of purity or percentage of a
Nahuatl > Sp + Ecf chouette constituent.
made of or like chocolate. n The chromometer indicated that the
Simon enjoys the chocolaty flavor / shVSet / gold was not pure enough for use
of his chicken mole. F in electronics.
a method of scoring by which more
chogset than two persons can participate in chromophobe
a two-handed game (as
choice backgammon), one player chromosphere
accepting the bets of all other n
cholangitis players on the result of a game / SkrPmETsfi(E)r /
between himself or herself and one Gk + Gk
chondral other active player. the lower part of the atmosphere of
Bob and Jill used a chouette to the Sun that is thousands of miles
chopine include Carla and James in their thick and is composed
n game. predominantly of hydrogen gas.
/ chPSpGn / The Sun’s rosy color is a
Sp > F chrismatory manifestation of the chromosphere.
a woman’s shoe of the 16th and n
17th centuries having a high often / SkrizmETtPrG / chronicler
stiltlike sole to increase stature and Gk > L > E
protect the feet from mud and dirt. a vessel or a place in which chronograph
While the chopine elevated a lady’s consecrated oil is kept. n
stature, it often led to her downfall. The museum’s collection of / SkrBnETgraf /
religious relics included a 500- Gk
chord year-old chrismatory. an instrument for measuring time.
The chronograph in Dr. Jekyll’s
chore lab needs calibrating.
Page 49 of 289
\chronologize cilia cinematheque
v n pl n
/ krESnBlETjIz / / SsilGE / / TsinDmEStek /
Gk L Gk > F
arrange (as events or documents) in [has near homonyms: coelia and [Note: Could be confused with
order of time. sillier] hairlike processes found on cinematic.] a small movie theater
As a history assignment, Mrs. many cells that are capable of specializing in avant-garde films.
Griffin had the students vibratory movement and that serve The local cinematheque was
chronologize the events leading up as organs of locomotion. showing a new French film last
to the Revolutionary War. The bacterium’s cilia fluttered as it week.
came into view under the
chrysoberyl microscope. cinephile
n
chrysochlorous ciliary / SsinDTfIl /
adj adj Gk > F
/ TkrisESklPrEs / / SsilGTerG / [has homonym: sinophile] a
Gk L + Ecf devotee of motion pictures.
[has near homonym: of or relating to minute hairlike The cinephile had mixed reactions
Chrysochloris] of the color golden processes found on many cells. to the latest Star Wars movie.
green. Careful inspection revealed the
The chrysochlorous case suspended microbe’s movement was ciliary, cinquain
from the twig is the pupal stage of not flagellary, in nature.
the monarch butterfly. cinque
cimetidine n
chrysography / SsiNk /
Cimmerian L>F>E
chub adj [has homonym: sink] five;
/ sDSmirGEn / especially : the number five in dice
chubby Gk or cards.
[has near homonym: Sumerian] The highest card that Lou held was
chuckle marked by intensity of darkness or only a cinque of diamonds.
gloom : stygian.
chulo Gina’s parents became concerned circa
when she wanted her room to have prep
chummage a Cimmerian appearance. / SsErkE /
L
chumming cinctured about, around.
v The children enjoyed seeing the
chylocaulous / SsiN(k)chE(r)d / photographs of their grandparents
adj L taken circa 1940.
/ TkIlESkOlEs / girded, encircled.
Gk > G + Ecf The valley, cinctured with circline
having fleshy or succulent stems. mountains, is home to about 25
Many desert plants are families who lead a lifestyle circumflex
chylocaulous. reminiscent of yesteryear.
circumlunar
cicatrize cinderella adj
n / TsErkEmSlVnE(r) /
cichlid / TsindESrelE / L+L
fairy tale name revolving about or surrounding the
ciconine one suddenly lifted often Moon.
fortuitously from obscurity and Sailors say a circumlunar halo
neglect to honor and significance. foretells rainy weather.
After its football team won the state
championship in a huge upset,
Fremont High became the school
district’s cinderella.
Page 50 of 289
circumnavigate civility clamp
v n n
/ TsErkEmSnavETgCt / / sDSvilEZG / / Sklamp /
L L>F>E D? > E
go or travel completely around (as the state of being advanced in any of various instruments or
the Earth) especially by water. social culture. appliances having parts brought
Magellan was the first explorer to Jubril’s civility in accepting the together as by a screw for holding
circumnavigate the globe. policeman’s apology for mistakenly or compressing something.
tackling him was remarkable. The toymaker used a clamp to hold
circus the two halves of the yo-yo together
clairaudient while the glue dried.
circusiana
n pl clairsentience clandestinely
/ TsErkEsGSBnE / n adv
L / Tkla(a)rSsench(G)En(t)s / / klanSdestDnlG /
materials or objects relating to L>F>E L
circuses or circus life. perception of what is not normally in a manner marked by, held in, or
Maya’s collection of circusiana perceptible. conducted with secrecy and
fetched a surprisingly high price at Gert attributed her uncanny ability concealment.
auction. to tell when her mother was coming The outlawed political group had
home to clairsentience. to meet clandestinely in members’
cirque houses to avoid detection by the
n clambake secret police.
/ SsErk / n
L>F / SklamTbCk / clangorous
a deep steep-walled basin high on a E+E
mountain usually shaped like half a a social gathering where food is clapboard
bowl and often containing a small prepared and eaten outdoors;
lake, caused especially by glacial specifically : a seashore outing clarain
erosion, and usually forming the where edible mollusks and fish are
blunt head of a valley. cooked by dry heat (as on heated clarification
Justine climbed down the cirque rocks covered by seaweed). n
and set up camp. The children liked vacationing at / TklarEfDSkCshEn /
the seashore, where they swam L
cirrocumulus every day and had a clambake the act or process of explaining
every night. clearly.
cirrus Bill’s request for clarification of
clamber the test instructions was a familiar
cispontine v stalling tactic.
/ Sklam(b)E(r) /
cissoid E clarity
move by or as if by catching hold n
civics with the hands and feet. / SklarEZG /
n pl Simone watched her brother L
/ Ssiviks / clamber up an incline as a warthog the distinctness of shape, outline, or
L chased him. sound.
study of the workings of the The voice had the warmth of a
national and local government clammy woodwind, the clarity of a trumpet,
especially as the subject of a and the mystery of an English horn.
secondary school course suited as clamorous
training for citizenship. clarkeite
Advanced students in Tim’s school
usually select the course in civics to
fulfill the ninth grade history
requirement.
civil
civilian
Page 51 of 289
classicist clergyman cloudburst
n n n
/ SklasisDst / / SklErjDmEn / / SklaUdTbErst /
L F>E+E E+E
one learned in the works of a member of those duly ordained to a sudden copious rainfall as if a
literature of ancient Greece or the service of God in the Christian whole cloud had been precipitated
Rome : a classical scholar. church. at once.
During the interview the publisher Sabrina resented the fact that she Following the spectacular
asked Kathy if she were a was often called a clergyman. cloudburst, the stream overflowed
classicist. and flooded the roadway.
clerical
classicistic cloven
clerihew adj
classification n / SklPvEn /
n / SklerDThyV / E
/ TklasEfDSkCshEn / E name divided or split especially to a
L>F a light verse quatrain in lines certain depth.
a system for the arrangement of usually of varying length, rhyming According to folklore, the devil
books or other literary material aabb, and making a statement cannot appear without his cloven
according to subject or form. usually concerning a person whose feet.
The librarian used a chart to name typically supplies the initial
illustrate the decimal classification rhyme. clover
of books to the third-grade The disc jockey composed a
students. humorous clerihew for each of the cloverleaf
presidential candidates. n
clavecin / SklPvE(r)TlGf /
n client E+E
/ SklavEsDn / an interchange between two major
L>F climactic highways that allows traffic to
harpsichord. change from one to the other
One of Henry’s jobs at the climb without requiring any left turns or
historical museum is to play period crossings.
pieces on a clavecin that belonged climber The construction of the cloverleaf
to Thomas Jefferson. at I-295 and Cooper Road is
clinical scheduled for completion in
clavilux August.
clinometer
clavis cloying
cliometrics
claymore cloze
clipboard adj
cleanser / SklPz /
clipping L>F>E
cleat [has homonyms: clothes, close] of,
cliquism relating to, or being a test of
cleavability reading comprehension that
clobber involves having the person being
clergy tested supply words which have
n clochard been systematically deleted from
/ SklErjG / the text.
F>E clockwork Madame DeFarge told the first-
a body of religious officials year French class that their final
prepared and authorized to conduct cloddiness exam would consist mainly of cloze
religious services and attend to exercises.
other religious duties. cloddish
Abby sought comfort and counsel coadunate
from a member of the clergy. cloth
clothes
Page 52 of 289
coagulability cobblestone colander
n
/ TkPagyElESbilEZG / cocainize colcannon
L n
the quality or state of being capable cochlea / kElSkanEn /
of gathering together or forming IrGael
into a mass or group. cockpit potatoes and cabbage or other
Increased viscosity of the blood greens boiled and mashed together.
coupled with increased cockroach Deirdre’s mother serves a different
coagulability multiplies the risk of n meat every night of the week, but
a stroke. / SkBTkrPch / the side dish is always colcannon.
Sp
coagulum any of an order (Blattaria) of colectivo
insects with long antennae and a
coaptation flat, soft body. coleopterist
The cockroach is one example of a
coarse highly adaptable insect which can coleopterous
adj be found all over the world. adj
/ SkP(E)rs / / TkPlGTSBptErEs /
E cocksure Gk + Ecf
[has homonym: course] roughly or of or relating to a beetle.
crudely formed. coctile Coleopterous insects usually have
Modern coarse imitations lack the biting mouthparts and hard front
original fineness of authentic coda wings that cover the membranous
Navajo rugs. hind wings.
coden
coarsely coleslaw
codger
coati colicky
n codify
/ kESwBZG / collaborate
Tupi > Pg coefficient
a mammal of tropical America that collapse
is related to the raccoon but with a coercible
longer body and tail and a long adj collar
flexible snout. / kPSErsEbEl /
When foraging, the coati often L + Ecf collarbone
climbs trees for fruit. capable of being restrained,
controlled, or dominated. collards
coaxation Previously coercible, James has
learned to ignore the threats of the collation
cobalt class bullies.
n collectanea
/ SkPTbOlt / coffeepot
L>G collector
a hard magnetic silver-white coffer
metallic element. collegiate
Cobalt is essential as a trace cogency adj
element in animal and plant / kESlGj(G)Dt /
nutrition. cognosce L
relevant to the life of college
cobbler cognoscenti students often on the nonacademic
n side.
/ SkBblE(r) / coiffure Students who participate in major
E collegiate sports usually have been
a repairer or maker of shoes. coincide outstanding high school athletes.
Milt’s great-grandfather was a
cobbler in Bavaria. cokery colliculate
Page 53 of 289
collide collutorium coloristic
n
colligate / TkBlEStPrGEm / colorless
v L adj
/ SkBlDTgCt / mouthwash. / SkElE(r)lDs /
L Every few minutes the dental L + Ecf
[has near homonym: collocate] hygienist offered her patient a transparent and not distinguished
bind, unite, or group together often collutorium. by any hue.
according to a subsuming principle. Gary was able to list several
The lawyer attempted to colligate colobus colorless gases without much
instances of the employer’s unfair n thought: nitrogen, carbon dioxide,
treatment of the workers. / SkBlEbEs / carbon monoxide, and oxygen.
Gk > L
colligation any of a genus of slender long- colossally
tailed African monkeys.
collimate In the colobus the thumb is either colossus
absent or greatly reduced in size.
collocate colt
v colonial
/ SkBlETkCt / colugo
L colonnaded n
[has near homonym: colligate] set adj / kESlVgP /
or arrange in a place or position; / TkBlESnCdDd / Malay?
especially : set side by side. L > It > F either of two arboreal nocturnal
The plan is to collocate the two having a series of columns placed mammals that are about the size of
satellite signal receivers to make at regular intervals. a cat and that have a broad fold of
data analysis easier. The colonnaded royal palace was skin extending from the neck to the
the city’s shining architectural tail on each side that forms a
colloquialism jewel. parachute used in making long
sailing leaps.
colloquium colony The colugo lives in the rain forest
n n and feeds on the leaves, buds,
/ kESlPkwGEm / / SkBlEnG / shoots, and flowers of trees.
L L>F>E
a conference; specifically : a a group of persons united by a comandancia
seminar that several lecturers take common characteristic or interest n
turns in leading. living in a limited section / TkBmEnSdanch(G)E /
Professor Dunnock participated in surrounded by others not so united. Sp
a colloquium on “The Role of the Members of the colony a province or district under military
Mass Media in a Democratic occasionally left the compound to control.
Society.” purchase food, medicine, and fuel. Soldiers patrolled the streets
collunarium enforcing the curfew in the
n colored comandancia.
/ TkBlESna(a)rGEm /
L colorfast combination
a medicated solution for instillation
into the nostrils as a wash or spray colorimeter combust
or as drops. n v
Steve knew that the collunarium / TkElESrimEZE(r) / / kEmSbEst /
would aid his stuffy nose, yet he L + Gk L
refused to use it. an instrument for determining and cause to undergo any chemical
specifying colors by reference to process accompanied by the
other colors and giving results not evolution of light and heat, being
independent of abnormalities in the typically a vigorous union of
observer’s color vision. substances with oxygen.
A colorimeter and a Sue’s assignment was to combust
spectrophotometer are actually hydrogen and estimate the resulting
quite different, although they both change in enthalpy.
measure colors.
Page 54 of 289
combustible comminution communard
n n
comedian / TkBmESn(y)VshEn / / SkBmyETnBrd /
n L F
/ kESmGdGEn / gradual lessening by the removal of an adherent of a principle or system
Gk > F small particles at a time : wearing of organization in which the major
[has homonym: comedienne] an away. social or political units are local
actor who plays in dramas of light Frost promotes the comminution of self-governing communities.
or amusing character and typically stone to small particles. A communard is an individual who
with a happy ending. wishes for an extreme development
The comedian in the movie was commiserative of local government.
played by an actor who was better
known for his dramatic roles. commissariat communique
comedy commissioner commutator

n
comestibles / kESmish(E)nE(r) / comoid
n pl L
/ kESmestEbElz / the officer in charge of a compact
L department or bureau of the public adj
items suitable to be eaten. service. / kEmSpakt /
A wide variety of comestibles was The police commissioner awarded L>E
on display at the gourmet shop. the officer a medal for his heroic suggesting firmness, soundness,
rescue of a child. and a degree of strength.
comic The bulldog’s compact frame
commissure contrasts sharply with the
comity greyhound’s lanky build.
commit
commandeer companionship
committal
commemoration n company
n / kESmiZFl / n
/ kETmemESrCshEn / L / SkEmp(E)nG /
L the consignment or sentencing to L>F>E
something that calls to confinement (as in a prison or an organization of performers.
remembrance (as by speech, statue, mental hospital). The Dance Theater of Harlem is a
or ceremony). After hearing all the testimony, the famous modern dance company.
The city council voted to have a judge decided that committal to a
parade in commemoration of the psychiatric hospital would be comparability
city’s 150th anniversary. appropriate for the defendant.
comparison
commemorative committee
compass
commensal commodiously
adj compathy
/ SkESmen(t)sEl / commodities
L compensation
of or relating to those who commodity
habitually eat together. compensatory
Having pizza on Friday night is a commodore
commensal tradition among Carrie
and her friends.
comminatory
Page 55 of 289
competitive complicated compulsion
adj adj n
/ kEmSpeZEZiv / / SkBmplETkCZDd / / kEmSpElshEn /
L L + Ecf L
of or relating to a contest between complex : not simple to fabricate or a driving by force, power, pressure,
rivals. comprehend. or necessity.
The competitive spirit of the two Mary’s piano teacher assigned her Jake was acting under compulsion,
musicians rings loud and clear a complicated piece and asked her not on his own free will.
when they play the tune “Dueling to master the first page before the
Banjos.” next lesson. computable
complacency complicity concealment

n
complaint / kEmSplisEZG / conceited
n L adj
/ kEmSplCnt / association or participation in or as / kEnSsGZDd /
F>E if in guilt. E + Ecf
the act or action of expressing The complicity between the two entertaining an excessively or
protest, censure, or resentment. thieves goes back to their early unjustifiably high opinion of
The employees’ major complaint shoplifting escapades. oneself.
was that their work hours were not Dennis is so conceited that he
flexible enough. compliment would rather have stones thrown at
him than not be noticed.
complaisant comply
conceitedness
complementary composite n
adj / kEnSsGZEdnDs /
/ TkBmplESmentErG / composition E
L the quality or state of entertaining
[has homonym: complimentary] compost an excessively or unjustifiably high
supplementing and being opinion of oneself.
supplemented in return. composure The diva had trouble with her
Susan and Stuart’s complementary fellow singers because of her
talents of artistry and business compotator boundless conceitedness.
acumen made their boutique a
success. compound conceive
n v
complex / SkBmTpaUnd / / kEnSsGv /
adj L>F>E L>F>E
/ kBmSpleks / a large fenced or walled-in area (as form in the mind.
L in a prison or detention camp). Alec tried to conceive a solution to
having many varied interrelated POWs wandered around the his problem but couldn’t think of
parts, patterns, or elements and compound, hoping and praying for anything.
consequently hard to understand. rescue.
Caroline brought an unbelievably concentus
complex camera on the trip and comprehensive
was forever changing lenses. conceptual
compressed
complexus adj conceptualize
/ kEmSprest / v
compliance L > E + Ecf / kEnSsepchE(wE)TlIz /
condensed : reduced in volume by L
pressure. form a thought, idea, or notion of.
Carolyn filled her scuba tanks with Nowadays it is difficult to
compressed air. conceptualize a world without
telephones.
comprimario
concert
compromise
Page 56 of 289
concetto condolences confidence
n pl n
conche / kEnSdPlEn(t)sDz / / SkBnfEdEn(t)s /
L>F L
conchoidal expressions of sympathy with a relation or state of trust between
another in sorrow or grief. persons who confide in each other.
conchology At the funeral, Rafael offered his When the entire class knew of her
condolences to the Martinez family. crush on Wes, Emily regretted
concise having taken Jane into her
condominium confidence.
conclave
n conduct confident
/ SkBnTklCv /
L>F>E conelrad configure
the body of cardinals especially
when considered in respect to their confectioner confined
electoral function.
A puff of white smoke signified that confer confirmable
the conclave had elected the new
pope. conference confiscatory
conclude conferred conflict

v v
/ kEnSklVd / / kEnSfErd / confrere
L>E L n
reach a final determination or held conversation on important, / kPMSfre(E)r /
judgment about. difficult, or complex matters : L>F>E
The numbers forced Nina to consulted, deliberated. colleague : a fellow worker (as in a
conclude that she should close up The referees conferred for a few profession or in a field of study).
shop. minutes and then rendered a Fran’s study is so specialized that
decision that was unpopular with the nearest confrere in her field is
concur the home team. halfway across the country.
condensation confess congelation

n v n
/ TkBnTdenSsCshEn / / kEnSfes / / TkBnjESlCshEn /
L L>F>E L
transition of a substance from the acknowledge (one’s sins) the action or process of alteration
vapor to the liquid phase. especially to God or a priest in (as by freezing) from a fluid to a
Raindrops are formed by the order to receive forgiveness. solid or semisolid state.
condensation of water vapor onto In the Hitchcock movie I Confess, a Ice is the result of the congelation
specks of dust. frightened murderer is moved to of water.
confess his sin to a priest, who
condense cannot break the sanctity of the congelative
v confessional.
/ kEnSden(t)s / congelifract
L confession
undergo transition from the vapor congeniality
to the liquid phase. confide n
When molecules condense, they / kEnTjGnGSalEZG /
lose some of their kinetic energy. L
affinity of spirit or temperament :
condensed mutual agreeableness.
Captain Schreiner fostered a spirit
condescendent of congeniality between the officers
and the enlisted men.
Page 57 of 289
congestion conjugate conniption
n adj n
/ kEnSjes(h)chEn / / SkBnjDgDt / / kESnipshEn /
L>F L unknown
clogging. yoked or joined together especially a fit of rage, hysteria, or alarm.
Byron decided to be tested for in pairs : acting as if joined. Dad had a conniption when he
allergies after years of suffering In mathematics and physics, discovered that someone had stolen
with nasal congestion. problems usually have conjugate the radio from his car.
solutions.
conglutinant connive
adj conjugation
/ kEnSglVtFnEnt / connotations
L conjunction n pl
causing to adhere. n / TkBnEStCshEnz /
Used chewing gum was the / kEnSjEN(k)shEn / L
conglutinant substance that held L things implied or suggested by a
the papers together. a configuration in which two word or sometimes by a thing :
celestial bodies have their least implications.
congratulations apparent separation. Calling Carl’s behavior juvenile
n pl Some New Age doomsayers predict had negative connotations for him.
/ kEnTgrachESlCshEnz / a calamity when Earth and Mars
L come into conjunction. consanguineous
expressions of sympathetic adj
pleasure. conjunctivitis / TkBnsaNSgwinGEs /
In a 1783 address to Congress, n L
General George Washington / kEnTjEN(k)tESvIZDs / descended from the same person
offered his congratulations on the L (as a father) or the same ancestor.
departure of British troops from inflammation of the mucous Although Ron and Bill have
American soil. membrane that lines the inner different mothers, they have the
surface of the eyelids. same father, and are therefore
congregation In common parlance, conjunctivitis consanguineous.
n is known as “pinkeye.”
/ TkBNgrDSgCshEn / conjure consent
L>F>E v n
an assembly of persons : gathering; / SkBnjEr / / kEnSsent /
especially : an assembly of persons L L
met for the worship of God and for invent, contrive. compliance or approval especially
religious instruction. Tony will rely on Jason to conjure of what is done or proposed by
The pastor asked the congregation up a reason for both of them to another : permission.
to support the upcoming blood leave class early. The group assembled to protest
drive. against a form of government
conjury existing without the consent of the
conical governed.
connective
conjecture adj consequently
v / kESnektiv / adv
/ kEnSjekchE(r) / L / SkBn(t)sDTkwentlG /
L>F>E tending to join, fasten, or link L
form opinions concerning on together, usually by means of as a result.
grounds confessedly insufficient something intervening. The verbs founder and flounder are
for certain conclusions. Ducks have a connective membrane often confused and consequently
His fellow workers would often on their feet that enables them to misused.
conjecture playfully about the swim very quickly.
cause of Lou’s frequent tardiness.
Page 58 of 289
consider consternation contingency
v n
/ kEnSsidE(r) / / TkBnztE(r)SnCshEn / continual
L>F>E L
think about with a degree of care or grievous exasperation or contortion
caution. distraction. n
Had Vince taken time to consider The two, father and son, stared at / kEnStOrshEn /
the consequences of his behavior, each other in consternation, and L
he would have acted differently. neither knew what to do. a twisting into abnormal or
grotesque shape.
consideration constituency When the demon appeared on
n stage, the hero assumed a position
consigned / kEnzStichEwEnsG / of painful contortion.
L>F
consilient a body of citizens or voters that is contradict
adj entitled to elect a representative to
/ kEnSsilyEnt / a legislature or other public body. contradictory
L The representative asked his
in accord with a set of inductive constituency for opinions on the contrapposto
laws of distinct derivation. issue.
The biologist Edward O. Wilson contrecoup
argues that natural sciences and constrictor
social sciences are consilient in the contrive
study of human evolution. consul v
/ kEnStrIv /
consist consume L>F>E
devise, plan, plot.
consistency contagion Nona tried to contrive a valid
n excuse for her absence but finally
consolation / kEnStCjEn / admitted she had overslept.
L
consolatory the process by which disease is controlled
adj transmitted from one person to
/ kEnSsPlETtPrG / another by direct or indirect means. controversial
L Frequent hand washing has been
designed or intended to bring found to be effective in disrupting contumelious
comfort and solace. the contagion of the common cold.
The fireman offered a few contumely
consolatory remarks before contagiosity n
rescuing Ann’s kitten from the tree. / kEnSt(y)VmElG /
containing L>F>E
consolidate the suffering of insult : humiliation.
contaminant Dan’s ability to ignore insults gave
consolidator him an endless capacity for bearing
contemplated contumely.
consonant
contemporary conundrum
consort
n contemptuous convalesce
/ SkBnTsOrt / v
L contemptuously / TkBnvESles /
one that shares the company of L
another, as a wife or husband. contention recover health and strength
The queen attended the festival gradually after sickness or
with her consort, Prince Reginald. contentious weakness.
Mrs. Davis is going to convalesce
conspirator context at her son’s house.
conspirators continent conventionally
Page 59 of 289
converge copyist coreopsis
n n
convince / SkBpGDst / / TkPrGSBpsDs /
L>F Gk + Gk
convoluted one who is employed to make a plant of a genus of herbs which
adj copies. have showy flower heads with
/ TkBnvESlVZDd / Four hundred years ago, one might bracts in two distinct series of eight
L have had to hire a copyist in order each.
complicated and involved. to obtain sheet music. The name coreopsis means “bug-
Stuart’s convoluted blackjack appearance” and refers to the bug-
system is so difficult as to be coquettish like shape of the plant’s seed.
useless.
coquillage cornerstone
convulsively
adv coquille cornhusking
/ kEnSvElsDvlG / n
L / kPSkil / corolla
in a manner producing or F
accompanied by an unnatural, a shell-like dish in which food is corona
violent, and involuntary contraction served. n
or series of contractions of the Emily baked the scallops in a / kESrPnE /
muscles. coquille. L
As Edna listened to the details of something suggesting a crown.
her son’s accident, she dropped coral Perhaps the lampshade’s gold
into a chair and sobbed adj color and frilly edges made Roald
convulsively. / SkOrEl / imagine that it was a corona.
Gk > L > F > E
coolant [has homonym: choral] of a strong coronal
pink color that has a hint of dark adj
cooper yellow. / kESrPnEl /
n The seashell, coral when wet, was L
/ SkVpE(r) / almost white after it dried. [has homonym: coronel] of or
D or G > E relating to a corona or crown.
a maker or repairer of wooden coralene The king had to swear a coronal
casks or tubs. oath which required his assent to
Ned watched a cooper making cordage the laws passed in parliament.
barrels at Sturbridge Village.
cordate coronation
coparcener n
n cordial / TkOrESnCshEn /
/ kPSpBrsEnEr / L
L+L>F cordovan the ceremony of investing a
a joint heir. n sovereign or consort with the royal
In accordance with the will, each / SkO(r)dEvEn / crown.
coparcener is to receive an equal Sp geog name The prince and his consort rode to
amount from the sale of the a variable color averaging a dark their coronation in a gilded
parents’ property. grayish red. carriage.
The cordovan of Kathy’s purse
copolymer does not match the cordovan of her corporal
penny loafers.
coppice corporeity
Page 60 of 289
corps corrosive cossette
n n
/ SkP(E)r / corte / kBSset /
L F
[has homonyms: cor, core, kor] the cortege [has homonyms: cassette, cosset] a
ensemble or chorus of a ballet n strip or slice (as of sugar beet or
company as distinguished from / kOrStezh / potato) : chip.
soloists and principals. L > It > F Each cossette was dropped in very
Even the most famous ballerinas a procession of mourners at a hot fat for browning and then
have spent some time as members funeral. moved to a lower temperature for
of the corps. Representatives of various charities final cooking.
the princess had supported made
corpuscles up her official cortege. costliness
corrade corticoid costume

n
correct coruscated / SkBTst(y)Vm /
v L > It > F
correlate / SkOrETskCtDd / the distinctive dress of a particular
L period, locality, or occupation worn
correlation gleamed with intermittent flashes : in the drama or for festivals.
glittered, sparkled. During the intermission the tenor
correspondence The leaves shimmered and the had to change into another
grass coruscated in the early costume.
corrigendum morning sunlight.
costumery
corroboration corydora
n cotehardie
/ kETrBbESrCshEn / cosmetic
L cottage
evidence that confirms the truth of cosmetologist
something. n cottonseed
Two witnesses provided / TkBzmEStBlEjDst /
corroboration of the suspect’s Gk couac
alibi. one who gives beauty treatments
(as to skin and hair). couchette
corrode Mrs. Shelton worked for 22 years
v as a cosmetologist at Belk’s coulomb
/ kESrPd / Department Store. n
L / SkVTlBm /
undergo a gradual wearing away or cosmic F name
alteration by a chemical or adj the practical meter-kilogram-
electrochemical essentially / SkBzmik / second unit of electric charge equal
oxidizing process. Gk to the quantity of electricity
The picture of a harbor in Sandy’s of, from, or relating to the transferred by a current of 1 ampere
book was accompanied by an extraterrestial vastness in contrast in 1 second.
explanation of how ship hulls to Earth alone. Jenna found that 1 coulomb of
corrode. In his spare time Steven likes to electricity changed the potential
read science fiction tales of cosmic between two plates of a capacitor
corrodible exploration. by 1 volt.
adj
/ kESrPdEbEl / cosmozoic
L + Ecf
capable of being worn away or
converted into an easily
disintegrated substance.
Lemon juice should not be stored in
a corrodible container.
Page 61 of 289
coulombs courser coverlet
n pl n n
/ SkVTlBmz / / SkPrsEr / / SkEvE(r)lDt /
F name F>E L>F>E
units of electric charge equal to the [has homonym: coarser] a swift or a bedspread sometimes quilted or
quantity of electricity transferred spirited horse : war-horse. of heavy material.
by a current of one ampere in one The foaming courser threw his Kasey drew the coverlet up to her
second. rider headlong to the ground. neck to seek relief in the drafty
An ordinary flashlight battery room.
delivers a current that provides a courtesy
total charge flow of approximately covert
5,000 coulombs. courtier
n covet
council / SkPrZGEr /
F>E covetous
counselee a gentleman attendant of a
sovereign’s residence or covinous
counterfeiter establishment.
n Travis will perform the part of the cowardly
/ SkaUntE(r)TfiZE(r) / king’s courtier in the play.
L>F>E cowed
one that forges or makes fraudulent courtliness v
imitations of current money. / SkaUd /
Special paper, ink, and watermarks courtly E
are used for making currency to adj intimidated with threats, show of
foil the counterfeiter. / SkPrtlG / strength, or impressiveness :
L>F>E dispirited into inactivity or
counterinsurgency marked by highbred polish, submission.
stateliness, and ceremony. The cowed convicts did not dare to
counterpoise Lord Darnley removed his antagonize the vengeful guards.
feathered hat and addressed the
counterspy queen with a courtly bow. cowhide
country coutil cowl

n
countryfolk couturier / SkaUl /
Celt? > L > E
coupe couturiere a hood especially of a monk.
n At the monastery Sheila was
coupling / kVStUrGTe(E)r / greeted by a man wearing the long
F brown robe and cowl of a friar.
courage [Note: Could be confused with
n unisex couturier.] a female cowling
/ SkErij / proprietor of or designer for an
L>F>E establishment engaged in cozen
mental or moral strength enabling designing, making, and selling
one to venture, persevere, and fashionable expensive custom- cozening
withstand danger, fear, or difficulty made women’s clothing.
firmly and resolutely. The couturiere Coco Chanel is crabby
The boys argued about whether the considered by many to be the 20th adj
crocodile hunter showed true century’s single most important / SkrabG /
courage or just foolhardiness. arbiter of fashion. E
cross, churlish, ill-natured.
courageous couvade The crabby driver did not allow
any talking on the school bus.
crackleware
cracknel
Page 62 of 289
cradled cravat crestfallen
n adj
craftiness / krESvat / / SkrestTfOlEn /
G or Serbo-Croatian > F L>F>E+E
craftsman a band or scarf of fine cloth worn marked by a sense of personal
around the neck : necktie. defeat : dispirited, dejected.
crag The flamboyant poet showed up for Margaret was crestfallen when she
n the interview wearing a cravat over got only a C on her essay.
/ Skrag / a tie-dyed T-shirt.
Celt > E cretify
a rough broken cliff or projecting crayon
point of rock. cretin
A favorite children’s movie begins creaking
and ends with the king of beasts crevice
standing on a crag, overlooking his creamery n
kingdom. / SkrevDs /
credence L>F>E
crambo a narrow opening of some depth
creditable caused especially by a split.
cranberry The hiker’s compass fell into a
creditor crevice in the rock and will
cranially probably never be seen again.
credo
cranioscopy n crew
n / SkrG(T)dP /
/ TkrCnGSBskEpG / L cricket
Gk > L + Gk > L a confession of faith said or sung in n
observations on or examination of Christian liturgies. / SkrikDt /
the human skull. Bach’s B Minor Mass contains a F imit
The team’s physician advised a famous credo. any of certain leaping insects that
cranioscopy for the batter who had are also noted for the chirping notes
been beaned by a wild pitch. creedmore produced by the males.
The male cricket produces sound
cranium creepage by rubbing together parts of the
n n fore wings.
/ SkrCnGEm / / SkrGpij /
Gk > L E crickety
the part of the skull that encloses the slow spreading or movement of
the brain. a substance. criminal
The carelessly tossed book The creepage of rust across the
encountered Zelda’s cranium with bumper betrayed the car’s age. criminologist
a thud. n
crenature / TkrimESnBlEjDst /
crassitude L
crepitate one that specializes in the scientific
crater study of crime as a social
n crept phenomenon, of criminal
/ SkrCZE(r) / v investigation, of criminals, and of
Gk / Skrept / penal treatment.
any of thousands of formations on E Nicole asked her guidance
the lunar surface ranging in size entered stealthily and secretly. counselor if she needed an
from small pocks less than a mile Mary crept softly across the room advanced degree to be a
in diameter to walled plains nearly to look. criminologist.
150 miles across.
Buzz set down the lunar lander just crinal
beyond the rim of a huge crater.
crinet
cratered
Page 63 of 289
cringing crocodilian croupon
adj adj
/ SkrinjiN / / TkrBkESdilGEn / crowd
E Gk > L n
that shrinks in fear or servility. false, insincere. / SkraUd /
Cringing at the sight of the bear in Claire’s crocodilian grief over the E
the distance, the children gathered death of her brother’s pet snake did a large number of persons
their courage and backed slowly not fool anyone. especially when collected into a
toward their car. somewhat compact body without
crocuses order : throng.
crinkle n pl The crowd on the football field
/ SkrPkEsDz / chanted, “We’re number one!”
crinkly Semitic > Gk > L crucially
bulbs, plants, or flowers of the
criollo genus Crocus. cruciform
n Crocuses were peeking through the adj
/ krGSPl(y)P / snow in the Goulds’ yard. / SkrVsETfOrm /
Sp L + Ecf
[Note: Could be confused with crooked forming or arranged in a cross.
feminine form criolla.] a person of The cruciform blossom of the
pure Spanish descent born in croquembouche dogwood has inspired a well-
Spanish America. n known legend.
The anthropologist noted in her / krOkBMbVsh /
report that only one criollo F cruciverbalist
answered her genealogical survey. a cone-shaped stack of cream puffs n
coated with caramelized sugar. / TkrVsESvErbElDst /
crispation A croquembouche is a traditional L
n type of French wedding cake. a person skillful in creating or
/ kriSspCshEn / solving crossword puzzles.
L + Ecf crossbow Angela was named Cruciverbalist
the act or process of curling : the n of the Month by her crossword
state of being curled. / SkrOsTbP / club.
Al pointed out the crispation of the E
leaves on the infested plant. a weapon having a short bow cruel
mounted crosswise that fires an adj
crisscross arrow lying in a groove in the / SkrVEl /
stock. L>F>E
criterion The crossbow was a particular [has homonym: crewel] stern,
favorite of the weaponsmaster. rigorous, and grim.
crith The cruel reality is that Justin will
n crosswind be expelled for his wrongdoing
/ Skrith / n regardless of how remorseful he is.
Gk / SkrOsTwind /
the weight of a liter of hydrogen at ON or Old Ir > E + E cruelly
0 degrees Celsius and 760 a wind blowing in any direction not
millimeters pressure (0.08987 parallel to a course. cruise
gram). A strong crosswind made it difficult
As a unit of mass, the crith was a for Carla to land her Cessna 150. crumpet
precursor to the mole. n
crotalic / SkrEmpDt /
crocheted E?
crotalid a small round cake made of rich
crocheter adj unsweetened batter cooked on a
/ SkrPZFlDd / griddle and usually served split and
crocodile Gk > L toasted.
typical of a pit viper. Pierre thinks no English crumpet
Crotalid venom, while not usually can hold a candle to a delicious
fatal, can cause severe discomfort. French croissant.
Page 64 of 289
crushable cubit culpability
n
crutch / SkyVbDt / culver
L
cryogenics any of various ancient units of culvert
length based on the length of the n
cryonics forearm from the elbow to the tip / SkElvE(r)t /
n pl of the middle finger and usually unknown
/ krISBniks / equal to about 18 inches. a transverse waterway (as under a
Gk Helen couldn’t understand why road, railroad, or canal).
the practice of freezing a dead more things weren’t measured by Gina’s cat ran from the dog and
diseased human being in hopes of the cubit, since it was a readily hid in the culvert for several hours.
restoring life at some future time available measure.
when a cure for the disease has culvertage
been developed. cubomancy
The premise of Rudolph’s movie cumulocirrus
script involved an experiment in cucumber n
cryonics gone awry. / TkyUmyE(T)lPSsirEs /
cuerda L
crypt n a small billowy cloud form found at
/ SkwerdE / high altitudes and characterized by
cryptanalysis Gk > L > Sp a white delicacy.
n a Puerto Rican unit of land measure Denny’s plane flew through a
/ TkriptESnalEsDs / equal to 0.97 acre. cumulocirrus that looked just like
Gk Raul farmed a small patch of cotton candy.
the theory of solving writing that is land—less than a cuerda—during
in cipher or code : the art of the off season. cuneate
devising methods for such solving. adj
Through cryptanalysis the Allies cuisine / SkyVnGTCt /
were able to decode the enemy’s n L
secret messages. / kwDSzGn / shaped like a wedge : narrowly
L>F triangular with the acute angle
cryptogenic manner of preparing food : style of toward the base.
cooking. The forest floor was a strange mix
cryptophyte Jackie traveled to Lyons to take a of pine needles and cuneate leaves.
two-week course in French cuisine.
crystallize cunette
culicide
ctetology n cunning
/ SkyVlETsId /
cub L cupcake
n a substance that destroys
/ SkEb / mosquitoes. cupola
unknown The town’s inhabitants were
a young person; especially : an advised to stay indoors for two curarize
awkward or ill-mannered boy. hours after the culicide was
Mr. Downes called every student sprayed. curassow
that passed through his classroom
a “young cub.” culicidologist curettage
cubature
culottes curia
n pl
/ Sk(y)VTlBts /
F
a garment having a divided skirt.
When bell-bottom jeans came back
into style, Janine was afraid that
culottes would, too.
Page 65 of 289
curie cutigeral cymbal
n adj n
/ SkyUrG / / kyVStijErEl / / SsimbEl /
F name L+L Gk > L > F > E
a unit of radioactivity equal to 37 bearing skin. [has homonym: symbol] a large
billion disintegrations per second. Starbuck was limping because of concave brass plate producing a
While studying nuclear the infection in the cutigeral cavity brilliant clashing tone of indefinite
engineering, Melissa learned to use of his left front hoof. pitch.
the curie to quantify radioactive The percussionist grimaced after he
decay. cutlery struck the cymbal at the wrong
time.
curiosity cyanide
n n cymbalist
/ TkyUrGSBsEZG / / SsIETnId /
L Gk + ISVcf cymbiform
a desire to know. a compound of cyanogen usually adj
The locked box aroused immense with a more electropositive element / SsimbDTfOrm /
curiosity in Maxine. or radical. Gk > L + Lcf
Ions of cyanide are extremely toxic boat-shaped.
curmudgeonly because they bind almost While discussing the skeletal
irreversibly with cytochrome system, Mr. Gray called the
curricle oxidase, a key enzyme in metabolic students’ attention to a small
processes. cymbiform bone in the wrist.
cursorial
adj cyanophilous cynical
/ TkErSsPrGEl /
L cyclamate cynicism
having limbs adapted to running. n
Horses, zebras, and other members cyclometer / SsinDTsizEm /
of the genus Equus are cursorial n Gk
mammals. / sISklBmEZE(r) / the quality or state of being prone
Gk + Gk to faultfinding.
curtail a contrivance for recording the Tom's cynicism has become
v revolutions of a wheel and often tiresome to all his friends.
/ TkErStCl / used for registering distance
L>F>E traversed by a wheeled vehicle. cynodont
shorten in duration or scope : Just for fun, Chris attached a
abridge, reduce. cyclometer to his daughter’s cyrillic
The students were warned their tricycle. adj
grades would be affected if they / sDSrilik /
didn’t curtail their extracurricular cyclorama Slavic name
activities. n constituting or written in the
/ TsIklESrBmE / alphabet used for Russian and
cushioned Gk + Gk many other Slavic languages.
v a curved curtain or wall used as a Sven puzzled over the cyrillic
/ SkUshEnd / background of a stage set to writing on the Moscow subway
L>F>E suggest unlimited space. station sign.
provided or equipped with a pad or The cyclorama provided the
pads. illusion of being in a huge cytologist
Gil and Terry cushioned the hard ballroom.
wooden train seats with their coats. cytolysis
cyclothymia n
cuticolor / sIStBlEsDs /
Gk
the dissolution or disintegration of
cells.
The researchers experimented with
various chemicals to bring about
the cytolysis of tumor cells.
Page 66 of 289
cytoplasm Daltonism Daphnean
n adj
dabbing / SdOltFnTizEm / / SdafnGEn /
E name Gk
dabblingly red-green color blindness, named shy, bashful.
after John Dalton, who first Sally’s Daphnean personality
dactyl detailed a description of color causes her to look away from the
blindness from which he and his camera whenever her picture is
dactylic brother suffered. being taken.
adj Danny’s parents didn’t realize that
/ dakStilik / he suffered from Daltonism until he dapperling
Gk attended pre-school.
of or consisting of a metrical foot darcy
of three syllables, the first being damascened n
stressed and the last two being adj / SdBrsG /
unstressed. / SdamETsGnd / F name
Homer’s two epics are written in Syrian geog name > Gk > L a unit of porous permeability in
dactylic meter. decorated with inlaid work of physics.
precious metals. Geologists use the darcy as a
dactylion Francine admired the delicate measure of how easily water will
n scrollwork on the damascened permeate a given type of rock.
/ dakStilGTBn / chest in the Museum of Decorative
Gk Arts. daresay
the tip of the middle finger.
As Ruth was restitching a seam, she dampproof Darjeeling
ran the sewing machine needle n
through the dactylion of her left damson / dBrSjGliN /
hand. Beng geog name
danceable high quality tea grown especially in
daft adj northern India.
/ Sdan(t)sEbEl / Anthony's mother always
dagger L? > F > E + Ecf purchased her Darjeeling from an
suitable for dancing. importer in Chicago.
daguerreotypes When a danceable song began
n pl playing, Lars asked Anita if she darken
/ dESgerETtIps / knew how to waltz.
F name + Gk > F darkle
photographs produced on a silver dandruff v
plate or silver-covered copper / SdBrkEl /
plate. dandruffy E
Ike treasured the daguerreotypes of grow dark : fade into darkness.
his great grandparents. dank Agnes watched the last bright-
colored daylight darkle slowly
dailiness dansant against the hills.
n
dainty / dBMsBM / darkness
L? > F n
dairy an informal or small dance. / SdBrknDs /
Sally’s friends held a dansant in E
Dallas her honor before her departure for the absence in whole or in part of
adj China. light.
/ SdalEs / Mia fumbled in the darkness of the
Am geog name cave to replace the failing
of or from the city of Dallas, Texas. flashlight batteries with new ones.
Sue could not find a winter parka
in any of the Dallas stores. darnel
Page 67 of 289
dasyure dazzlement debtor
n n
/ SdasGTyU(E)r / / SdazElmEnt / deburr
Gk > L ON > E
an arboreal carnivorous marsupial the action of impressing or exciting decadal
of Australia and Tasmania that admiration by being brilliant and
somewhat resembles a weasel. splendid. decadence
The spotted-tailed dasyure is The dazzlement of the Paris fashion n
commonly known in Australia as show left Suzette speechless and / SdekEdEn(t)s /
the tiger cat. wide-eyed. L
[has homonym: decadents] the
dative deadline quality or state of being marked by
adj decay or decline (as from an earlier
/ SdCZiv / deaeration condition of excellence or vitality).
L n The family mansion’s decadence is
of chemical bonds : formed by / TdGa(E)SrCshEn / an embarrassment to Clarissa.
contribution of a pair of electrons L + Gk > L
by one atom. the act or process of removing air decahydrate
Although the properties of a dative or gas (as oxygen) from something.
bond do not differ from those of a The packaging company reduces decalage
normal covalent bond, in which the volume of powders by
each atom contributes an electron, deaeration before they are put into decalcomania
the distinction is useful for keeping bags. n
track of valence electrons. / (T)dGTkalkESmCnGE /
dealkalize L > F + Gk > L > F
daubster the art or process of transferring
deathin pictures and designs typically from
daughter specially prepared paper to china,
deathwatch glass, or marble and permanently
daven fixing them thereto.
v debauch Most tourist centers use
/ SdBvEn / decalcomania to turn cheap china
Yiddish debellatio and glass into expensive souvenirs.
recite the prescribed prayers in the n
daily and festival Jewish liturgies. / TdCbESlBZGTP / decamerous
Shmuel watched his father daven L adj
and tried to copy him exactly. complete subjugation of a / dDSkamErEs /
belligerent nation usually involving Gk + Gk
davenport loss of sovereignty. having ten parts or divisions—
The Punic Wars ended with the usually used of a flower.
davit Roman debellatio of Carthage. Nelson chose only decamerous
flowers for his girlfriend’s bouquet.
dawn debellation
v decapitation
/ SdOn / debilitate
E decathlon
begin to grow light in the morning. debilitated n
Every night Delia thanked God for v / dDSkathTlBn /
her good fortune and prayed that / dDSbilETtCZDd / Gk
she be able to watch the next day L a ten-event athletic contest.
dawn. impaired the strength of : The motivational speaker Bruce
weakened, enfeebled. Jenner is famous for having won a
dawned Disease had so debilitated Kate’s gold medal in the 1976 Olympic
sister that she required constant Games decathlon.
daze care in a nursing home.
deceased
debouchure
decency
debt
Page 68 of 289
decennary decrement deem
n n v
/ dDSsenErG / / SdekrEmEnt / / SdGm /
L L E
period of ten years. the act or process of gradually [has homonym: deme] come to
Peace was finally restored after a becoming less : decrease. view, judge, or classify after some
decennary of unrest. The game warden explained that a consideration.
deer herd suffers no decrement if Robert was frustrated that his
decent the legal hunting take is not trainer did not deem him ready for
permitted to exceed 20 percent of the fight.
deciare the total herd.
deerstalker
deciliter decrepit n
n / Sdi(E)rTstOkE(r) /
/ SdesETlGZE(r) / decrepitude E+E
L > F + Gk > L > F n a close-fitting cap with a visor at
a metric unit of capacity equal to / dDSkrepETt(y)Vd / the front and the back and with
1/10 liter. L>F earflaps that may be tied up or
At fashionable Paris boutiques, a state of decay, ruin, or down.
some brands of perfume are sold by dilapidation. Sherlock Holmes without his
the deciliter. Far from falling into decrepitude, deerstalker and pipe? Seems
the town was on a spree of building sacrilegious, doesn’t it?
deciphering construction. deet
decision decryptograph defalcation

n
declarative decubital / (T)dGTfalSkCshEn /
L
declare decubitus misappropriation of money in one’s
keeping.
declination decumary The treasurer was charged with
n defalcation when it was learned
/ TdeklESnCshEn / decumbent that he was diverting funds for his
L personal use.
angular distance from the celestial dedicate
equator measured along a great defamation
circle passing through the celestial dedimus n
poles. n / TdefESmCshEn /
Declination and right ascension / SdedGmEs / L>F
together define the position of an L the act of harming another’s
object in the sky. a writ giving a private person reputation by any slanderous
permission to act as a judge. communication.
declivity In the course of her legal studies, The corporation sued the journalist
Anna found only five instances of for defamation, claiming lost
decolletage the issuance of a dedimus. business as a result of his article.
decorate deduce defective

v
decorative / dDSd(y)Vs / defensible
L
decorum derive by logical process.
From the tracks and the spoor,
decrease Tule was able to deduce that the
elephants left the watering hole
when the lions arrived.
deducible
Page 69 of 289
deference dehydration deltohedron
n
/ Sdef(E)rEn(t)s / deixis deluginous
L n
a yielding of judgment or / SdIksDs / delusory
preference out of respect for the Gk
position, wish, or known opinion of the specifying action of some delved
another. words (as definite articles and v
Special hunting and fishing rights demonstrative pronouns). / Sdelvd /
are given to Alaskan natives in An example of deixis is the word E
deference to their tribal traditions. there in the sentence “I left the car dug into : explored by or as if by
over there.” digging.
defiantly dejectedly As an amateur archaeologist,
adv adv Vernon delved into many creek
/ dDSfIEntlG / / dDSjektEdlG / beds for artifacts.
L>F L
in a bold, insolent, or unafraid in a depressed manner : sadly. demagogy
manner. “It seems to me that almost
Though she had been grounded, everything is a waste of time,” he demantoid
Vera defiantly rode to the bowling remarked one day as he walked
alley on her bicycle. dejectedly home from school. demarche
n
deflagrate delaine / dCSmBrsh /
n F
deflationary / dDSlCn / course of action : maneuver.
L>F With his approval ratings
deflead a lightweight dress fabric of wool plummeting, the leader wondered
or wool and cotton. what demarche would be the most
deflocculate Sarah chose to make her sundress effective.
out of a floral print delaine.
defoliant demerit
delator
defunct demesmerize
adj deliberate
/ dDSfEN(k)t / v demiurge
L / dDSlibETrCt / n
having finished the course of life or L / SdemGTErj /
existence : dead, deceased, extinct. ponder or think about with Gk > L
The advent of the pocket calculator measured careful consideration. something (as an institution, idea,
made the mechanical adding Speed chess rewards the player or individual) conceived as an
machine defunct. who needs little time to deliberate. autonomous creative force or
decisive power.
degerminate delicate It is surprising how many people
tend to regard a computer as a
deglaciation delineation demiurge.
n n
/ TdGTglCs(h)GSCshEn / / dDSlinGSCshEn / demonstration
L L
the process whereby a glacier or ice accurate and precise graphic
sheet shrinks to disappearance. representation as distinguished
The deglaciation period at the end from that which is careless or
of the Ice Age lasted for several sketchy as to details.
years. The architect presented Ruth and
Bob with a delineation of the house
degrade plan.
degustator deliquesces
dehumidify delirium
Page 70 of 289
demotic denigration depravity
adj n n
/ dDSmBZik / / TdenDSgrCshEn / / dDSpravEZG /
Gk L L>F>E
of, belonging to, or connected with a sullying of reputation or the quality or state of being marked
the form of Modern Greek that is character. by debasement, corruption,
based on colloquial use. The candidate’s denigration of her perversion, or deterioration.
Everyone in Callista’s ancestral opponent backfired in the election. The young man spent his college
village spoke demotic Greek except years making a concentrated study
the priest, who usually spoke a denigratory of depravity.
more classical form of the
language. denim depreciate
demure denticulate depredation

adj adj
/ dDSmyU(E)r / / denStikyETlCt / depressant
F? > E L
marked by quiet modesty, sedate having small teeth : covered with depression
reserve, restraint, or sobriety : small pointed projections. n
retiring, shy. The archaeologist unearthed a / dDSpreshEn /
Sondra’s classmates mistook her denticulate tool that early humans L
demure conduct for used for shredding food. a region of low barometric pressure
standoffishness. surrounded by higher pressures.
dentist The size of a depression can vary
dendrochronology n from a few hundred feet in a
n / SdentDst / tornado to several hundred miles in
/ Tden(T)drPkrESnBlEjG / L>F a tropical cyclone.
Gk one whose profession it is to treat
the science of dating events, diseases of the teeth and associated deprivation
intervals of time, and variations in tissues. n
environment in former periods by Mrs. Caleb asked the dentist to / TdeprDSvCshEn /
study of the sequence of and remove her sweet tooth. L
differences between rings of the act of taking away.
growth in trees and aged wood. denunciate Earl suffered some brain damage
Jennifer’s biology class attempted as a result of oxygen deprivation.
to use dendrochronology to chart deodorant
climactic changes. adj depth
/ dGSPdErEnt /
dendrologist L + L + Ecf deputize
n destroying or masking offensive
/ den'drBlEjDst / smells. derby
Gk Penny used a deodorant carpet n
a specialist in the study of trees. cleaner to get rid of the dog smell / SdErbG /
The dendrologist decried the in the apartment. E name
continuing deforestation of the rain a stiff felt hat with a dome-shaped
forests. depauperate crown and a rather narrow
somewhat rolled brim—called also
denier depiction “bowler.”
n Alfred wore his new suit and high-
/ dDSni(E)r / depilitant crowned derby to the horse race.
L>F>E
a unit of fineness for silk, rayon, or deplenish derisible
nylon yarn equal to the fineness of adj
a yarn weighing 0.05 gram for each deplorable / dDSrizEbEl /
450 meters of length. L
Silk is usually quite strong, deposit worthy of ridicule, mockery, or
resisting breakage even when scorn.
subjected to weights of about 4 depot Fans were appalled at the boxer’s
grams per denier. derisible behavior in the ring.
Page 71 of 289
derisively dervish desertification
n n
derivation / SdErvish / / dDTzErZEfDSkCshEn /
Per > Turk L
dermabrasion a Muslim monk who performs the process of becoming arid land
certain devotional exercises such as or desert.
dermal concerted movements leading to a Environmentalists warn that
adj trance or ecstasy. significant portions of the United
/ SdErmEl / The dancing dervish moved from States could undergo
Gk side to side as he chanted his desertification if there is a marked
of or relating to skin, especially to prayers. climate change.
the dermis : cutaneous.
Various reptiles have small bones desacralize desiccant
or concretions within their skin v n
called “dermal ossicles.” / dGSsCkrETlIz / / SdesDkEnt /
dermatoglyphics L L
divest ceremonially of supernatural a drying agent (as sulfuric acid,
dermatology qualities or a taboo and render silica gel).
n nonsacred. The desiccant packed with Vern’s
/ TdErmEStBlEjG / The reformers wanted to camera lens bears the warning
Gk + Gk desacralize much of the church’s “Do Not Eat.”
a branch of science that is traditional liturgy. desideratum
concerned with the skin, its n
structure, functions, and diseases. descending / dDTsidESrBZEm /
The cosmetics company employed adj L
only individuals knowledgeable in / TdDSsendiN / something that is sought for or
dermatology to assist in its L + L + Ecf aimed at.
laboratory. moving or directed downward. A traditional Roman desideratum
The principal listed the amounts was “a sound mind in a sound
dermatophyte contributed by the classes in body.”
n descending order. designate
/ (T)dErSmaZETfIt /
Gk + Gk descriptive desinence
a fungus parasitic upon the skin or
skin derivatives (as hair or nails) of descry desipient
humans or lower animals.
The skin disease ringworm is desecration desirous
caused by a dermatophyte. n
/ TdesDSkrCshEn / desperately
derogation L adv
n the act or an instance of violating / Sdesp(E)rDtlG /
/ TderESgCshEn / the sanctity of something by L
L diverting from sacred purpose, by with an intensified or all-out last-
disparagement : detriment. contaminating, or by defiling. ditch effort in refusing to give up a
While the word childlike is usually Congress debated a bill to ban the struggle or purpose.
used in a favorable sense, the word desecration of the American flag. Firefighters tried desperately to
childish is usually used in rescue every person in the burning
derogation. desert house.
derogative
Page 72 of 289
despondent desultor devastavit
adj
/ dDSspBndEnt / detach developer
L
discouraged, dejected, or détente devious
depressed.
Elizabeth tried earnestly to keep deteriorable devise
her ailing brother from becoming v
despondent. determinant / dDSvIz /
L>F>E
despondently determine formulate by thought : contrive,
adv v invent.
/ dDSspBndEntlG / / dDStErmDn / It is possible to devise motors much
L L>F>E smaller than the head of a pin with
in an extremely discouraged, come to a decision about by microtechnology.
dejected, or depressed manner. investigation or reasoning.
After he was laid off, Larry Ross’s attempts to determine who devoid
despondently searched the “Help his parents are were stymied by a
Wanted” section of the classified fire that burned all the records. devoir
ads.
deters devour
despot v
/ dDStErz / devouring
despotic L v
turns aside, discourages, or / dESvaU(E)riN /
dessert prevents from acting by fear or L>F>E
consideration of dangerous eating up with greediness :
dessertspoonful circumstances. consuming ravenously.
n Nothing deters a good man from The squirrels are devouring the
/ dDSzErtTspVnfUl / doing what is honorable. seeds meant for the birds.
L>F+E
a unit of measure equal to about 2½ detestable dewdrop
fluidrams. adj n
Paige’s secret recipe calls for a / dDStestEbEl / / Sd(y)UTdrBp /
dessertspoonful of almond extract. L E+E
very odious : deserving abhorrence. a drop of moisture condensed upon
destination Manners that are passable in youth a cool surface, especially at night.
n are detestable in later age. The bird put his tiny head on one
/ TdestESnCshEn / side and looked up at him with his
L detract soft bright eye which was like a
a place which is set for the end of a black dewdrop.
journey or to which something is detrimental
sent. adj dewfall
The newest game show gives / TdetrESmentFl / n
amateur travelers an itinerary L + Ecf / Sd(y)VTfOl /
every day but no sense of their final harmful, damaging. E+E
destination. There is little doubt that smoking is the amount of moisture deposited
detrimental to one’s health. as dew during one period.
destitute The dewfall quickly evaporated as
adj deuterogamy the Sun rose.
/ SdestETtVt / n
L / Td(y)VZESrBgEmG / dextral
lacking possessions and resources; Gk adj
especially : lacking the necessaries a legal second marriage after the / SdekstrEl /
of life. termination of a first marriage. L
The tornado left many families After Gordon’s wife passed away, right-handed.
absolutely destitute. he expressed his opinion that a Little Lucas kept trying to use
deuterogamy was out of the dextral scissors with his left hand
destitution question. but was always frustrated.
Page 73 of 289
diabolical diastrophe dichondra
n n
diacritic / dISastrEfG / / dISkBndrE /
Gk Gk
diacritical a deformation of Earth’s crust. a chiefly tropical perennial herb
Part of Anita’s master’s thesis in with tiny leaves and flowers that is
diadromous geology deals with the different commonly used as a ground cover
causes of diastrophe. in the southern United States.
diagnosis Mr. Dupree doesn’t like to mow, so
n diatessaron he planted his yard with dichondra
/ TdIDgSnPsDs / n instead of grass.
Gk / dIEStesErEn /
investigation or analysis of the Gk dichotomous
cause or nature of a condition, the interval of a fourth in ancient
situation, or problem. Greek music. Dickensian
After the doctor’s grim diagnosis, While practicing with her high adj
Harvey’s family went looking for a school choir for the Classics / diSken(t)sGEn /
second opinion. Festival, Louise had problems E name
singing the diatessaron in her solo characteristic of or having the
diagrammatic correctly. qualities of the writings of Charles
adj Dickens with respect to humor and
/ TdIEgrESmaZik / diathermy pathos in the portrayal of character
Gk types.
being or relating to a drawing that diatom The Dickensian slums of London
shows arrangement and relations n were perfectly portrayed in the
(as of parts to a whole, origins and / SdIETtBm / television movie.
development, chronological Gk
fluctuations). any of the unicellular or colonial dictator
A family tree is a diagrammatic algae having a silicified cell wall
representation of the various that persists as a skeleton after diction
relationships in a family. death and forming a large part of
the plankton of both fresh and salt dictum
dialectic water.
Griff examined the diatom through dieffenbachia
dialectician the microscope and drew a quick
sketch of it in his lab notebook. diener
diamond
diatomaceous dieseling
dianoia
diatonic dieter
diapasons
diazepam difference
diaper n
/ dISazETpam / differentiable
diaphoresis ISV + unknown
n a synthetic tranquilizer used differentials
/ TdIEfESrGsDs / especially to relieve anxiety and
Gk tension and as a muscle relaxant. differentiate
perspiration. The patient’s seizure subsided after v
Dr. Grady explained that Simon’s treatment with diazepam. / TdifESrenchGTCt /
diaphoresis was one of the L
symptoms of his high blood dicey express the specific difference of.
pressure. The order of red and yellow stripes
helps differentiate deadly coral
diastole snakes from benign species.
Page 74 of 289
diffraction digit dimmer
n n
/ dDSfrakshEn / diglossia / SdimE(r) /
L E
a modification which light dignified a device for causing an electric
undergoes in passing by the edges light to burn less brightly.
of opaque bodies or through narrow digoneutic Sara turned the dimmer down and
slits in which the rays appear to be lit the candles in the dining room.
deflected and produce fringes of digression
parallel light and dark or colored n dimorphism
bands. / dISgreshEn / n
One consequence of diffraction is L / dISmOrTfizEm /
that sharp shadows are not the act of turning aside from the Gk
produced. main subject of attention in a difference (as of form, color, size)
discourse or literary work. between two individuals or kinds of
diffractometer Lou felt that they were wandering individuals that might be expected
n from the point, and that in to be similar or identical.
/ TdiTfrakStBmEZE(r) / digression Alexandra might Screech owls exhibit color
L + Ecf + Gk unnerve him. dimorphism, being either gray or
an instrument for measuring the reddish.
diameters of small particles in a dihedral
microscope field by means of the adj dined
diffraction rings which appear to / dIShGdrEl /
surround them. Gk + Gk dingbat
Lance used a diffractometer to having or formed by two plane
measure particles collected in the faces. dingo
air filter. The dihedral angles in a cube n
measure 90 degrees. / SdiN(T)gP /
diffuser Australian name
n dijudicate a wild dog of Australia.
/ dDSfyVzE(r) / v Many Australian farmers erect high
L / dISjVdDkCt / fences to protect their sheep
a device to distribute the light from L against the dingo.
a concentrated source uniformly. make a judicial decision.
To replace the burnt-out bulb, Judge Flanders will dijudicate in dingy
Adam had to remove the diffuser the civil case between Victoria and adj
from the light. her insurance company. / SdinjG /
unknown
diffusion dilatancy dirty, soiled, discolored.
n The bird flapped its dingy wings
/ dDSfyVzhEn / dilate and flew off in a cascade of dust
L and dirt and fuzz.
spreading, dispersion. dilated
Dr. Packman is investigating the v diocesan
effect of temperature on the / SdITlCZEd /
diffusion of light in various L dioscuric
crystals. expanded or became wide. adj
Slowly the pupils of Joan’s eyes / dIESskyUrik /
digest dilated until they were back to Gk
v normal. twin.
/ dISjest / The dioscuric children greatly
L dilatorily enjoyed switching identities to
[Note: The definition provided is annoy their teachers.
not the one most commonly diluvial
associated with this word.] diphthongize
appropriate or assimilate mentally.
The teacher told James that she
found it difficult to digest the main
idea of his recent essay.
Page 75 of 289
diphyllous disappearance discombobulate
adj n v
/ dISfilEs / / TdisESpirEn(t)s / / TdiskEmSbBb(y)ElCt /
Gk L L + unknown
having two leaves. removal from sight : vanishing. upset, confuse, or disconcert.
In her description of the flower, the With the disappearance of the Changing the rules just before the
botanist noted that its calyx was snow, the sleds and skates were game was bound to discombobulate
diphyllous. replaced with bicycles. the team.
diploe disappoint disconsolate

adj
diploid disapprobation / dDSskBn(t)s(E)lDt /
L
diplomacy disarray hopelessly sad : being beyond
comfort.
dipper disaster After she received her report card,
n Gretchen was disconsolate for the
dipsas / dDSzastE(r) / rest of the day.
Gk > L
dipsomaniac a sudden and unfortunate event that discordancies
causes much damage : calamity. n pl
dipteral The violent hail storm was the / dDSskOrdFn(t)sGz /
disaster that ruined the wheat crop. L
diptote disagreements.
disavowed Emma insisted to Mr. Knightley
dire v that their discordancies always
/ TdisESvaUd / arose from her being in the wrong.
director L>F>E
n denied responsibility for, approval discountenance
/ dDSrektE(r) / of, or validity of : disowned.
L Although the manager disavowed discourage
one that supervises the production the illegal actions of his
of a show (as for stage or screen) subordinates, he was held discrete
with responsibility for action, responsible and was fired. adj
lighting, music, and rehearsals. / dESskrGt /
While the producer is responsible disbursement L
for the finances and publicity of a n [has homonym: discreet] possessed
show, the director is responsible / dDsSbErsmEnt / of definite identity or individuality
for the show itself. L > F + Gk > L > F + Ecf : separate.
the act of expending, especially As a member of a large family,
dirge from a public fund : paying out. Emily sometimes finds it difficult to
The officer in charge of establish a discrete identity at
dirk disbursement gave the builders the school.
final payment.
disadvantage discriminant
discept
disagreeable discrimination
adj discernible n
/ TdisESgrGEbEl / / dDTskrimESnCshEn /
L > E + F > E + Lcf > Ecf dischargeable L
causing discomfort, displeasure, or the act, practice, or an instance of
repugnance. discigerous differentiating categorically rather
Mary was so disagreeable that than individually.
after the first day or two nobody disciple Several women waged lifelong
would play with her. campaigns to end discrimination
against females.
disappear
Page 76 of 289
discursively disillusion disquietude
adv v n
/ dDSskErsDvlG / / disDSlVzhEn / / dEsSkwIDTtVd /
L L L > Ecf + L + L > Ecf
in a manner passing from one topic deprive of hopes previously held : lack of peace or tranquillity :
to another. disenchant. anxiety.
In her book on modern art Rosalind If you believe that you’ll win the Groans and disquietude followed
discusses the various movements lottery, why should I disillusion Mr. Collins’s announcement of a
discursively. you? pop quiz.
disinherit
discuss disrupt
disinterred
discussion v dissect
n / TdisinStE(r)d /
/ dDSskEshEn / L dissecting
L dug out of the ground : taken out of v
a consideration of a question in a place of burial. / dDSsektiN /
open usually informal debate. The body of the victim was L
A lively discussion followed Ms. disinterred after a long legal battle cutting into parts or sections.
Poole’s speech. with the next of kin. The science kit was equipped with a
knife for dissecting.
disease dismayed
v dissension
disematism / dDSsmCd /
(L + Gmc) > F > E dissentious
disembark upset, perturbed, alarmed.
v Many veteran teachers were disservice
/ TdisDmSbBrk / dismayed to learn that they had to
F pass a test in order to continue to disseverance
go ashore out of a ship or boat : teach in public schools.
leave a ship. dissevered
“Please hold the railing as you dispel v
disembark,” Simi cautioned the v / dDSsevE(r)d /
passengers. / dDSspel / L
L disunited.
disgruntle clear away : cause to disperse or If the group dissevered, it could not
disappear. hope to win the campaign.
disgusting Dr. McKellar’s explanation of the
surgical procedure did not dispel dissidence
disheartening his patient’s fear. n
adj / SdisEdEn(t)s /
/ dEsShBrtFniN / dispensary L
Lcf > Ecf + E + Ecff [has homonym: dissidents]
inducing discouragement or disperse difference of opinion :
dejection. disagreement.
Wally’s attempts to learn ice- dispersed The tyrannical dictator did not
skating were disheartening. v tolerate any political dissidence.
/ dDSspErst /
dishevel L dissimulate
caused to break up and go in v
dishonest different ways. / dESsimyETlCt /
The high wind dispersed the seeds L
in the milkweed pods throughout hide under a false appearance with
the neighborhood. intent to deceive.
In the preface to his autobiography,
disposed the author said that he refused to
dissimulate the facts of his life.
dissipate
Page 77 of 289
dissipative distichous distraught
adj adj
dissociate / SdistDkEs / / dDSstrOt /
Gk L>E
dissolute divided into two distinct segments. beset with doubt or mental conflict
adj The entomology student was : deeply troubled.
/ SdisETlVt / puzzled over insects with distichous For four days distraught friends
L antennae. and relatives waited for news of the
unrestrained or lawless in conduct. lost skiers.
The board deplored the dissolute distilland
behavior of one of its members. distressing
distillery v
dissolution / dDSstresiN /
n distinct L>F>E
/ TdisESlVshEn / adj subjecting to great strain or
L / dDSstiN(k)t / difficulties.
[has near homonym: disillusion] L>F>E Ulrich had a distressing day at the
termination or destruction by capable of being easily perceived. office.
breaking down, disrupting, or As the dense fog lifted, the
dispersing. mountains again became distinct. distributary
King Henry VIII ordered the
dissolution of the monasteries in distinctive disturbance
England primarily to obtain their adj
wealth. / dDSstiN(k)tiv / disturbed
L adj
dissonance characteristic, peculiar : special. / dDSstErbd /
The distinctive odor of natural gas L>F>E
dissonantly comes from an additive designed to deprived of mental or emotional
adv make leaks easier to detect. peace : upset, agitated.
/ SdisEnEntlG / The movie’s villain was a brilliant
L distinctly but emotionally disturbed scientist.
in a manner marked by a mingling
of discordant sounds. distingue disunify
When the table was overturned, the
plates and silverware crashed distinguishable ditch
dissonantly to the floor. adj
/ dESstiNwishEbEl / dithering
dissuasion L
recognizable as separate : dittography
distal discernible.
adj King snakes and coral snakes are diurnation
/ SdistFl / distinguishable by the order of
L their red, yellow, and black stripes. diuturnal
located away from the center of the adj
body. distractible / TdIyVStErnFl /
The professor asked the students to adj L
identify the distal and proximal / dDSstraktEbEl / of long continuance : lasting.
ends of several bones. L In geologic time, the Paleozoic Era
having one’s attention readily was relatively diuturnal.
distemper diverted.
n The highly distractible student was divan
/ dDsStempE(r) / diagnosed as having attention
L deficit disorder. divergence
a highly contagious virus disease of
some animals.
The sick animals had distemper
and were given medicine by the
veterinarian.
Page 78 of 289
divers doab dolefully
pron pl
/ SdIvE(r)z / doable dollarwise
L
[Note: The definition provided is docible dollhouse
associated with this word. In docile dolmen
addition, word has near homonym: n
diverse.] an indefinite number more docket / SdPlmEn /
than one (as of persons or objects). L > Bret > F
Divers of the enemy were captured. dockization [has homonym: dolman] a
prehistoric monument consisting of
diversion doctorate two or more upright stones
supporting a horizontal stone slab
diverticulum doctrine found especially in Britain and
n France and thought to be a tomb.
/ TdIvE(r)StikyElEm / dodderer Connor made a model of a dolmen
L enclosed by a stone circle as part
an abnormal pouch or sac opening doddery of his English history project.
from a hollow organ (as the
intestines or bladder). dodecarchy dolomite
The examination began rather n n
casually, but at the first sight of a / SdPdETkBrkG / / SdPlETmIt /
diverticulum the doctor became Gk F name
much more serious. a ruling body of 12. a limestone or marble rich in
The rebels overthrew the magnesium carbonate.
divertimento dodecarchy and established an Geologists suspected a deposit of
n independent kingdom. dolomite lay just beneath the next
/ dDTvErZESmen(T)tP / rock layer.
L > F > It dodecuplet
an instrumental musical doloroso
composition having from four to dodgery
ten movements that is written as a dolt
chamber work. doeskin
The conductor chose a divertimento domesticate
by Mozart for the evening’s doffed
performance. v dominate
/ SdBft /
diverting E dominigene
v lifted the hat.
/ dDSvErZiN / When he reached the car, the figure dominion
L + Ecf doffed his cap.
turning or drawing (as the mind or donation
attention) from one concern to dogged
another : distracting. donee
The program on television was doily
diverting Vera’s attention from her donkey
homework. doldrum
donnybook
divide doldrums
n pl doohickey
dividend / SdPldrEmz /
E? doombook
divination a spell of listlessness or
despondency : blues. doorjamb
divvy Siobhan, who lives in Alaska,
explained that she often doornail
dizzyingly experiences the doldrums in the
winter. dopester
Page 79 of 289
dormer doughtily downdraft
adv n
dormice / daUZDlG / / SdaUnTdraft /
E E+E
dormitory in a manner marked by fearless a downward current of air.
resolution and by stoutness in A strong downdraft sent the
dormouse contest or struggle. airplane into a sudden steep
The district attorney doughtily descent.
dorsal persevered in his efforts to bring
adj the crime bosses to justice. downpour
/ SdOrsEl / n
L dour / SdaUnTpP(E)r /
belonging to or situated near or on adj E+E
the back of an animal. / SdaU(E)r / a pouring or streaming downward;
From the scar near the salmon’s L especially : a heavy rain.
dorsal fin, Ako knew it had been [has homonyms: doer, dower] The town’s sewage system was
attacked by a lamprey. marked by gloomy silence or ill unable to handle the tremendous
humor : sullen. downpour.
dorsiferous The usually dour senator was
advised to smile more if he wanted downright
dote to get reelected.
downtrodden
dottiness dourness
doze
doublet dovetail
n n dragonfly
/ SdEblDt / / SdEvTtCl /
L>F>E E+E dragoon
a quilted undergarment reinforced something (as a flaring tenon, v
by rings of mail and worn under tongue, or machine part) felt to / drESgVn /
armor. resemble a dove’s tail in shape; F
The knight’s life was saved by the especially : dovetail joint. compel or attempt to compel into
doublet he had reluctantly worn. The cabinetmaker taught his submission by violent measures :
apprentice to use a dovetail to join harass, persecute.
doubletone the pieces of wood. Gerald’s so-called friends tried to
dragoon him into quitting school,
doubloon dovetailed but he would have none of it.
adj
doubloons / SdEvTtCld / drakelet
n pl E+E
/ TdESblVnz / joined with or as if with a flaring dramatize
L > Sp tenon or tongue. v
old gold coins of Spain and Spanish Norm Abram showed the TV / SdramETtIz /
America worth 16 pieces of eight. audience the carefully dovetailed Gk
“Hang it, Pew, we’ve got the joints on the sideboard. exhibit graphically in such a
doubloons!” grumbled one pirate manner as to show forth qualities,
to the other. dowdily attributes, or aspects likely to be
overlooked.
dough downcast To dramatize the plight of Third
adj World children, the charity
/ SdaUnTkast / executives decided to film their
E + ON > E commercial in a squalid back alley.
low in spirit : depressed, dejected.
After striking out, the downcast dramaturge
batter returned to the bench.
Page 80 of 289
drams Drosophila dryad
n pl n n
/ Sdramz / / drPSsBfElE / / SdrITad /
Gk > L&F > E Gk > L Gk > L
avoirdupois units, each equal to a genus of small two-winged flies one of the minor divinities of
27.343 grains. that have been used extensively in nature in Greek and Roman
The doctor prescribed 2 drams of experiments to study basic mythology that are represented as
the medicine to be taken three times mechanisms of inheritance. beautiful maidens dwelling in the
a day. The fruit fly is of the genus forests.
Drosophila. Sally likes to sit in her tree house
drapery and pretend that she is a dryad.
drown
drastically dryness
drowsily
drawer adv dual
/ SdraUzDlG / adj
drawl E? + Ecf / Sd(y)VEl /
in a sleepy manner. L
drawloom Ali drowsily took the message for [has homonym: duel] consisting of
his roommate but forgot to give it two parts or elements : twofold.
drearily to him. Mark practiced whistling until he
was able to consistently produce a
drippage druid dual tone.
n
drizzle / SdrVDd / dualistic
n Gaulish > L
/ SdrizEl / a member of a priesthood in ancient dubious
E Gaul, Britain, and Ireland whose
a fine misty rain; specifically : a members are said to have studied dubiously
light rain of very small drops. the natural sciences and later adv
The rain increased suddenly, appeared in legends as magicians / Sd(y)VbGEslG /
pounding hollowly against the and wizards. L + Ecf
umbrella, then just as suddenly The tour guide speculated that in a manner expressive of doubt,
faded back to a drizzle. Stonehenge had been built by a hesitation, or suspicion.
lone druid seeking immortality. “Are you sure the shot won’t
drogher hurt?” Sarah dubiously asked the
druidism doctor.
droll
adj drumlin dubonnet
/ SdrPl / n
D>F / SdrEmlDn / ducal
having a whimsical, humorous, or IrGael + E adj
odd character. an elongate or oval hill of glacial / Sd(y)VkEl /
Steve says things so droll his drift. L>F
parents can’t respond for laughing. Last summer the cousins built a of, belonging to, or befitting a duke
bonfire atop the drumlin on or dukedom.
drolly Granddad’s farm. The ducal palace stood in the
middle of a beautiful garden.
dromic drunkard
adj ductility
/ SdrBmik / n
Gk / TdEkStilEZG /
of, relating to, or in the form of a L>F
racecourse. the quality or state of being capable
Many Eastern churches exhibit the of being drawn out into wire.
dromic form. The ductility of platinum is such
that it has been drawn into a wire
dromond less than two thousandths of an
inch in diameter.
Page 81 of 289
duenna dunderfunk dutiful
n
/ d(y)VSenE / dundrearies duumvirate
L > Sp n pl n
an elderly woman serving as / TdEnSdrirGz / / d(y)VSEmvErDt /
governess and companion to the E name L
younger ladies in a Spanish or a long flowing side whiskers. two people associated in high
Portuguese family. Dundrearies were a popular office or position.
The governor’s daughter was never adornment of men in the latter half The rebellion’s leader and the
allowed to leave the house without of the 19th century. army colonel formed a powerful
her duenna. duumvirate that controlled all
duodenary traffic to and from the capital.
dugong adj
n / Td(y)VESdenErG / dwindled
/ SdVTgBN / L v
Malay&Tagalog > L containing 12. / SdwindFld /
an aquatic herbivorous mammal The radical new government E
that has a two-lobed tail and in the planned to hold its elections on a became steadily less : diminished
male upper incisors altered into duodenary cycle of years. in size, amount, or quality.
short tusks, is related to the Above them the trees of the
manatee, and inhabits warm coastal duologue mountain dwindled, and then
regions. vegetation ceased entirely.
The dugong grazes on green algae duopsony
and sea grasses and is able to dyeing
remain submerged for up to 10 dupes
minutes. n pl dynamic
/ Sd(y)Vps / adj
dulcimer F / dISnamik /
puppets or tools especially of a Gk
dulcinea powerful person or idea. forceful, energetic.
n In his “Four Freedoms” speech, The soccer team praised their
/ TdElsESnGE / Franklin D. Roosevelt warned dynamic coach for his untiring
L > Sp name about the presence of secret agents efforts.
sweetheart. and their dupes.
Wesley called his girlfriend his dynamo
“dulcinea” because it sounded duplicate n
more romantic. adj / SdInETmP /
/ Sd(y)VplDkDt / Gk
dulosis L a direct-current generator.
n [Note: The definition provided is The old car had a dynamo powered
/ d(y)VSlPsDs / not the one most commonly by the front tire.
Gk > L associated with this word.] of,
enslavement by an insect that relating to, or being a card game in dyne
captures and rears the larvae or which all players play identical n
pupae of another species. hands in order to allow a / SdIn /
Some ants practice dulosis in order comparison of scores. Gk > F
to enlarge their army of workers. Joe and Lisa spent the weekend at [has homonym: dine] the unit of
a duplicate bridge tournament. force in the centimeter-gram-
duly second system equal to the force
duplicator that would give a free mass of 1
duncical gram an acceleration of 1
adj dusky centimeter per second per second.
/ SdEn(t)sDkEl / adj Mr. Hill tried to give examples
Scottish name + Ecff / SdEskG / illustrating the force of 1 dyne, but
stupid. E the students were still confused.
Warren’s patience ran out when he somewhat dark in color.
had to walk his neighbor’s duncical Dustin described the bird’s dysarthria
dog. plumage as a dusky brown tinged
with yellow. dyscrasia
Page 82 of 289
dysesthesia eavesdropper echelette
n
dysgraphia Ebenezer / TeshESlet /
n L>F
dyslexiac / TebESnGzE(r) / a reflection grating made by ruling
Heb parallel V-shaped grooves in a
dysphagia a commemoration of divine polished metal plate so that light is
n assistance. reflected from the corresponding
/ dDSsfCj(G)E / The city swimming pool is a faces of successive grooves.
Gk + Gk millionaire’s Ebenezer, celebrating If cut properly, an echelette can
difficulty in swallowing. his recovery from a childhood bout reflect almost as much light as a
Doug experienced dry mouth and of polio. mirror.
dysphagia as adverse reactions to
the medication he was taking. eburnean echeveria
adj
dysprosium / DSbErnGEn / echidna
L n
dystrophy resembling ivory in color. / DSkidnE /
n Charlie pleaded with his dentist to Gk
/ SdistrEfG / improve the appearance of his a spiny-coated toothless burrowing
Gk eburnean teeth. egg-laying mammal of Australia
any of several neuromuscular having a tapering snout and long
disorders. ecce tongue for eating ants.
Shayna was diagnosed with interj To frustrate its enemies, an echidna
muscular dystrophy the summer / Se(T)chC / may roll itself into a ball and dig
before she began elementary L straight down in loose soil.
school. interjection used to call attention
often to one persecuted unjustly. echinacea
eagerness At the end of his speech the defense n
attorney screamed “Ecce” and / TekESnCshGE /
earnestly pointed at his client. Gk
adv the dried rhizome, roots, or other
/ SErnDstlG / eccyclema parts of any of three composite
E herbs used in folk medicine and
with intent and serious manner. ecdysis some patent medicines especially
Gerald performed his job so for a supposed beneficial effect on
earnestly that his co-workers ecdysone the immune system.
teased him by asking if he thought n Some people take echinacea to
he was saving the world. / SekdDTsPn / prevent colds and flu.
Gk
earring any of several arthropod hormones echinate
that in insects trigger molting and adj
ease metamorphosis. / DSkInEt /
The insecticide Mary uses in her Gk > L
easel garden inhibits ecdysone, the [Note: Could be confused with
hormone that enables some insects noun echinite.] densely covered
easelback to metamorphose. with stiff bristles or spines : prickly
like a hedgehog.
easily echard Not many animals interfere with
adv n the echinate porcupine.
/ SGz(D)lG / / SeTkBrd /
E Gk
without difficulty, discomfort, or the soil water that is unavailable to
reluctance : readily. plant organisms.
Thomas easily solved the first set of The echard forms a part of the total
math problems, but the second set moisture content of the soil.
required great effort.
easterly
Page 83 of 289
echinus ectoparasite eeriness
n n n
/ DSkInEs / / SektPTparETsIt / / SirGnDs /
Gk Gk E
the rounded molding forming the a parasite that lives on the exterior the quality or state of being unusual
bell of the Greek Doric capital of a of its host. or unnatural to such a degree as to
column. The flea is a common ectoparasite inspire fear.
The tour guide pointed out the on dogs and cats. The abandoned mansion’s eeriness
echinus of the capital to Nancy’s sent a shiver down Joachim’s
group. eczema spine.
echo edaphic effective

adj
echolocation / DSdafik / effectuality
n Gk
/ Te(T)kPlPSkCshEn / of or relating to the soil. effervescence
Gk + L Kate’s research project on the
a process of animal orientation and effects of local edaphic variations effervescently
navigation that involves emission on agriculture won a silver medal
of high-frequency sounds that are in the state science fair. effervescible
reflected back from environing
surfaces and thus indicate the eddy efficient
relative distance and direction of
such surfaces. eddying effigial
Contrary to popular fiction, Erin v
learned that bats never get tangled / SedGiN / effortless
in people’s hair because their ON? > E
system of echolocation is so causing to move contrary to the eggnog
accurate. main current.
Yolanda let her fly drift into the eglantine
echoppe eddying water at the edge of the n
n stream. / SeglEnTtIn /
/ CSshBp / L > F > E + Ecf
L>F edger an Old World rose with stout
an engraver’s needle beveled to an recurved prickles and white to deep
oval facet at the end and used to edgily rosy pink single flowers.
reopen previously incised lines. The eglantine, noted for its fragrant
Kermit carefully worked the edibility foliage, can grow to a height of six
echoppe through the broad strokes feet.
of the engraving. edition
ego
ecize editor
egotistical
eclair educand adj
/ TGgEStistDkEl /
ecliptical education L + Ecff
boastful or arrogant : referring
ecocide educe unduly to oneself.
Paul wrote an egotistical letter to
economic eellike the editor of the newspaper.
economy
ecstasiate
ecstatically
ectocranial
Page 84 of 289
Egyptian eland electorate
adj n n
/ DSjipshEn / / SGlEnd / / DSlekt(E)rDt /
Gk > L Lithuanian > G > D > Afrikaans L
of or relating to Egypt, its either of two large African a body of people entitled to vote.
inhabitants, or its language. antelopes of which both male and The electorate favored allowing the
The pyramids at Giza are huge female have short spirally twisted independent candidate to
spectacular monuments of Egyptian horns. participate in the presidential
Old Kingdom architecture. In some areas of Africa the eland debates.
has been domesticated for use as a
eigenvalue draft animal on farms. electrify
n
/ SIgEnTvalyV / elaphine electroencephalograph
G+L>F>E n
any of the permissible values of a elapse / DTlektrPDnSsefElEgraf /
parameter in the solution of a Gk > L
differential equation satisfying elastique an apparatus for detecting and
specified conditions. recording brain waves.
Nina spent an hour finding the final elated The technicians installed the new
eigenvalue that satisfied the adj electroencephalograph at the
assigned physics problem. / DSlCZDd / hospital.
L
eighth elevated in spirit : excited electroluminescence
especially with pride. n
einkanter The scientist was elated on hearing / DTlekTtrPSlVmESnesFn(t)s /
n that he would be awarded the Gk + L + Lcf
/ SInTkBntE(r) / Nobel Prize. an emission of light resulting from
G a high-frequency discharge through
a stone with a single sharp edge elaterid a gas or from application of an
worn by wind-driven sand. n alternating current to a layer of
Joseph cut his knee on a large / DSlaZErDd / phosphor.
einkanter at the beach. Gk > L Stan was surprised to find that his
click beetle. friend knew what
eisegesis Sandy was surprised to hear a electroluminescence is.
n clicking noise when the elaterid
/ TIsESjGsDs / flipped itself to an upright position. electrolyte
Gk n
the interpretation of a text (as of the elbowroom / DSlektrETlIt /
Bible) by reading into it one’s own Gk
ideas. elder a substance (as an acid, base, or
The biblical scholar noted that salt) that when dissolved in a
eisegesis is often unavoidable elderly suitable solvent (as water) or when
because our lives have a strong adj fused becomes an ionic conductor.
impact on how we learn. / SeldE(r)lG / The veterinarian recommended that
E + Ecf Mo use the product Pedialyte to get
elaborative rather advanced in years. an electrolyte or two into Daisy, his
adj An elderly lady lived in a huge old sick chimp.
/ DSlabETrCZiv / house on the edge of town and
L never came out except for food and electron
tending to expand something in church.
detail. electroretinograph
Each topical heading was followed electioneer n
by elaborative paragraphs giving / DTlektrPSretFnETgraf /
details. Gk + L + Gk
an instrument for recording
electrical activity in the retina.
The security device in the sci-fi film
involved an electroretinograph, but
the details were vague.
Page 85 of 289
elegance elongate emaciation
n
elegiac eloquent / DTmCshGSCshEn /
adj adj L
/ TelDSjIEk / / SelEkwEnt / the state of being made lean by
Gk L impairment (as from hunger).
consisting of two dactylic adept at skilled easy pleasing Disease was the major cause of the
hexameter lines the second of communication of a thought, idea, emaciation of the children in the
which is often felt to be or feeling. African village.
pentameter. A gifted toastmaster is not only
Gonda could not figure out how to eloquent but also entertaining. email
scan the elegiac couplet. n
eloquently / CSmI /
elegy F
n elucubrate a moderate bluish green to greenish
/ SelEjG / blue.
Gk > L elude Email, also called “bleu Louise,”
a poem expressing sorrow or is a common color of enamel used
lamentation. elusive in cloisonné.
The English poet Thomas Gray
wrote perhaps the most famous eluvium emanatory
elegy. n
/ GSlVvGEm / emancipatory
element L
rock debris produced by embarrassing
elenchus weathering.
After many years the wind and embergoose
elevation water made eluvium of the n
n limestone. / SembE(r)TgVs /
/ TelESvCshEn / Norw&E + E
L elysium common loon.
the angular distance of a celestial n The embergoose is a large fish-
object above the horizon. / DSliz(h)GEm / eating aquatic bird that spends
Simon measured the Moon’s Gk > L most of its time in open water.
elevation with a protractor, a the dwelling place of happy souls
straw, a string, and a washer. after death as conceived by the embezzled
ancient Greeks and Romans. v
elevator Greek tales about the afterlife seem / DmSbezEld /
to focus more on Hades than on F > AF > E
elevon elysium. appropriated fraudulently to one’s
own use (as property entrusted to
elicit elytra one’s care).
n pl The bank employee embezzled
elicitation / SelETtrE / hundreds of thousands of dollars
Gk > L before the authorities discovered
elicitor the thickened sclerotized anterior the crime.
wings in beetles and some other
eligibility insects that protect and cover the emblema
posterior wings.
elocutionary At least 250,000 species of insects emboss
have hardened wing covers called
eloge “elytra.”
n
/ CSlPzh /
Gk > L > F
a panegyrical funeral oration.
Mourners wept at the rabbi’s
moving eloge.
Page 86 of 289
embosser emmetropia encaustic
n n n
/ DmSbBsE(r) / / TemDStrPpGE / / DnSkOstik /
F Gk > NL Gk
a punch used for striking metal on the normal refractive condition of a paint mixed with melted beeswax
the reverse side to raise the relief. the eye in which with and after application fixed by heat.
Mandy used an embosser to form a accommodation relaxed parallel Encaustic gave Gerard’s painting
design on a thin piece of copper rays of light are brought accurately an appealing texture.
sheeting. to a focus upon the retina.
There are new kinds of laser enceinte
embracing surgery that bring the eyes of n
v nearsighted people back to a state / BMSsant /
/ DmSbrCsiN / of emmetropia. L>F
F a line of fortification enclosing a
encircling, enclosing, emotion castle or town.
encompassing. The attacking army used artillery
Calvin flung his arms out wide, as emperor to breach the town’s enceinte.
though he were embracing Meg
and her mother—the whole house. emphasize encephalon
n
embroidered empiricism / DnSsefETlBn /
v Gk
/ DmSbrOidE(r)d / employed the vertebrate brain.
F > E + Ecf The encephalon is divided into the
ornamented with needlework. emptiness hindbrain, the midbrain, and the
Grandma embroidered the forebrain.
tablecloth with a floral motif. empyreal
enchanted
embryogenesis emulator v
n / DnSchantEd /
/ TembrGPSjenEsDs / emulsify L>F>E
Gk + Gk v influenced by or as if by charms
the formation and development of / DSmElsETfI / and incantation : bewitched.
the animal organism in the early L The dominant spirit that has
stages of growth and convert into a mixture of two haunted and enchanted this region
differentiation. incompletely miscible liquids. is a figure on horseback.
During early embryogenesis cells Monika used a hand mixer to
differentiate to form various types emulsify the eggs and oil for her encincture
of tissue. special salad dressing.
encipherment
emersal enamelware
encoignure
eminence enatic
adj encolure
emit / GSnaZik /
v L + Ecf encomiastic
/ GSmit / descended from the same mother : adj
L related on the mother’s side. / DnTkPmGSastik /
throw or give off or out (as light, George and Isabel are enatic Gk
heat, gases, or charged particles). cousins. of, belonging to, or bestowing
“Neon” signs are actually made praise.
with neon, krypton, and argon, The opera’s composer wrote an
which emit different colors of light. encomiastic letter to the conductor
commending his performance.
encompass
encourage
Page 87 of 289
encouraged endoradiosonde enkindle
n v
encroaching / TenTdPSrCdGPTsBnd / / DnSkindFl /
v Gk + L + F L + ON > E
/ DnSkrPchiN / a microelectronic device introduced set on fire.
Scand > F > E + Ecf into the body to record Light concentrated by a magnifying
entering by gradual steps or by physiological data. glass will enkindle dry grass or
stealth into the possessions or Dr. Lennon warned Tonya not to paper.
rights of another. use a portable telephone while her
Mr. Bickett’s garden was endoradiosonde was in place. enlivened
encroaching on his neighbor’s v
lawn year by year. endotracheal / DnSlIvEnd /
adj L>F>E+E
enculturate / TendPStrCkGEl / made sprightly, gay, or cheerful.
v Gk The dancers were immediately
/ DnSkElchErCt / placed within or passed inside of enlivened by the swing music.
L the windpipe.
modify or condition by the process The physician had to insert an ennoble
by which an individual learns the endotracheal tube to help the v
traditional content of a culture and patient breathe. / DSnPbEl /
assimilates its practices and values. L>F>E
The Romans intended to endurance elevate in degree or excellence.
enculturate the vanquished people n Thad is living proof that spending
as quickly as possible. / DnSd(y)UrEn(t)s / time with virtuous people can
L>F ennoble those of lesser character.
endear an instance of long-suffering (as
hardship or tribulation). enoptromancy
endearment On his sad face was an expression
of suffering and endurance. enormous
endive adj
enemy / DSnO(r)mEs /
endocardial L + Ecf
adj energumen [Note: Speller should not confuse
/ TendPSkBrdGEl / with obsolete form enormious.]
Gk + Gk enforceable marked by extraordinarily great
situated within the heart. adj size, amount, number, degree,
With a stethoscope the physician / DnSfP(E)rsEbEl / scope, intensity, or significance.
listened for endocardial murmurs. F>E The documentary depicted the
capable of being enforced. enormous task of building the
endocrinopathy A law must be enforceable if it is to Panama Canal.
have any effect.
endogenous enraptured
adj enfranchise v
/ enSdBjEnEs / / DnSrapchE(r)d /
Gk + Gk engagement L
arising from internal structural or filled with delight : gratified
functional causes. engagingly completely.
Rhythmic biological behavior As Timmy entered the room, he was
governed by an endogenous clock engine enraptured by the sight of the tree
is widespread in the animal and the many presents.
kingdom. engorge
enshroud
engross
enjoin
enjoyable
Page 88 of 289
ensteel entrapment envision
v n v
/ DnzStG(E)l / / DnStrapmEnt / / DnSvizhEn /
E F L+L
make hard and strong. the luring by an officer of the law have a mental picture of especially
Mr. Simpson explained that one of a person into the commission of in advance of realization.
step in making silver jewelry is to a crime in order that the person When she was a child, Calinda
hammer the metal well to ensteel it. may be prosecuted for the offense. would often envision her life as a
The jury felt that the evidence famous writer or painter.
ensuant indicated police entrapment, so
they acquitted the defendant. envoy
entelechy n
entrechat / SenTvOi /
enthalpy n F
n / TBntrESshB / any person delegated to represent
/ SenTJalpG / L > It > F one sovereign or government in its
Gk a leap during which a ballet dancer relations with another.
a thermodynamic quantity that is repeatedly crosses the legs. The Enterprise conveyed the envoy
the sum of the internal energy of a The audience watched in to the peace conference without
body and the product of its volume fascination as Nureyev performed a incident.
multiplied by the pressure—called seemingly effortless entrechat.
also “heat content.” eohippus
To help determine the change in entrée n
enthalpy, Gruen carefully specified / TGPShipEs /
the physical states of all the entrepreneurial Gk + Gk
reactants and products. an animal or fossil of a genus of
entresol small primitive 4-toed horses of the
enthusiasm Lower Eocene of the western
entropy United States.
enthusiast n Modern horses are descended from
/ SentrEpG / the eohippus.
enthusiastic Gk
adj the ultimate state reached in the eolith
/ DnTth(y)VzGSastik / degradation of the matter and
Gk energy of the universe. epaxial
having an ardent, receptive, The laws of physics state that all adj
responsive temperament. things tend toward entropy. / eSpaksGEl /
Myron’s enthusiastic nature Gk
infected the rest of the students. enumerated located above or on the dorsal side
v of a straight line with respect to
enticement / DSn(y)VmETrCZDd / which a body, figure, or system of
L points is either radially or
entirely related one after another : listed. bilaterally symmetrical.
When the waiter had enumerated The epaxial muscles along the
entirety the dessert choices, making a single human spine are relatively large.
selection was difficult.
entomb epenthesis
enunciatively n
entrammel / DSpen(t)thEsDs /
envious Gk
the insertion of a letter in a word to
environ make the spelling conform to the
pronunciation.
environment The word nymel became nimble by
epenthesis.
epergne
Page 89 of 289
epexegesis epidemiologist epipelagic
n n adj
/ TeTpeksESjGsDs / / TepETdGmGSBlEjDst / / TepDpDSlajik /
Gk + Gk Gk Gk
an explanation following a word or a specialist in the science that deals of or relating to the part of the
larger part of a text that limits its with the incidence, distribution, and oceanic zone into which enough
application or clarifies its meaning. control of disease in a population. light for photosynthesis penetrates.
An epexegesis is often set off from The epidemiologist strongly Creatures living below the
the rest of a sentence by commas or recommended that all children be epipelagic zone are often blind.
parentheses. inoculated with the chicken pox
vaccine. epiphanic
ephelis adj
epiglottis / TepESfanik /
ephemerally n Gk
/ TepESglBZDs / of or having the character of a
ephemerid Gk sudden manifestation or perception
n the fold of tissue that covers the of the essential nature or meaning
/ DSfem(E)rDd / airway during the act of of something.
Gk swallowing. Oliver had the epiphanic
a mayfly. Breathing opens the epiglottis and realization that his cat had gained
An ephemerid has membranous allows free passage of air to the weight because she was about to
wings that fold flat over the back. lungs. have kittens.
epibiont epiglottitis epiphora

n
epic epigonism / DSpifErE /
adj n Gk + Gk
/ Sepik / / DSpigETnizEm / a watering of the eyes due to
Gk Gk + Ecf excessive secretion of tears or to
[has near homonym: epoch] artistic, literary, or intellectual obstruction of the lacrimal
extending beyond the usual or imitation especially by a later passages.
ordinary especially in size or scope. generation. Blocked tear ducts were determined
The movie’s epic scale succeeded The Pre-Raphaelite movement in to be the cause of the patient’s
brilliantly according to most the mid-19th century arose from epiphora.
critics. epigonism of the artistic principles
of the 14th century. epiphyte
epicardia n
n epigrammatic / SepETfIt /
/ TepESkBrdGE / Gk
Gk epigraph a plant that derives its moisture and
the short part of the esophagus nutrients from the air and rain and
extending from the diaphragm to epilithic grows usually on another plant.
the stomach. adj Spanish moss is a ubiquitous
The medical student was asked to / TepESlithik / epiphyte on trees in the South.
identify the patient’s epicardia Gk + Gk
during surgery. growing on stone or stonelike epistaxis
material. n
epicenter Some species of snails feed on / TepESstaksDs /
n epilithic lichen. Gk
/ SepDsentE(r) / nosebleed.
Gk > L epinephrine During his illness, Henri had
the part of Earth’s surface directly frequent bouts of epistaxis, so he
above the focus of an earthquake. learned to keep a box of tissues
An earthquake whose epicenter is handy at all times.
on the ocean floor may cause a
tsunami.
Page 90 of 289
epistemic equational eraser
adj
/ TepESstGmik / equerry erasion
Gk n
of, having the character of, or / SekwErG / eremic
relating to knowledge or knowing L&F adj
as a type of experience. an officer of princes or nobles / DSrGmik /
Sol thought the self-evidence of it charged with the care of their Gk
all was epistemic justification horses. of or relating to deserts or sandy
enough for his belief that the world The royal equerry had his men regions.
existed. prepare the horses for the fox hunt. Georgia O’Keeffe painted several
famous eremic landscapes.
epistolography equestrian
n adj eremitic
/ DTpistESlBgrEfG / / DSkwestrGEn /
Gk L + Ecf erg
the art or practice of writing [has near homonym: equestrienne] n
epistles : letter writing. of, relating to, or featuring / SErg /
The widespread use of e-mail has horseback riding. Gk
revived a form of epistolography. The artist was best known for his an absolute centimeter-gram-
equestrian paintings. second unit of work representing
epithelium the work done by a force of 1 dyne
n equidistant acting through a displacement of 1
/ TepESthGlGEm / adj centimeter in the direction of the
Gk + Gk / TGkwDSdistEnt / force.
a cellular animal tissue consisting L Dr. Young planned to introduce the
of one or more layers of cells that being of the same measure apart. erg in his next physics lesson.
serves to enclose and protect the The neighborhood grocery and
other parts of the body. video stores are equidistant from ergonomist
Humans have about 26 million Josh’s home. n
sensory cells per square inch of / (T)ErSgBnEmDst /
olfactory epithelium. equipollence Gk
n a specialist in biotechnology.
epollicate / TGkwESpBlEn(t)s / David ordered a desk chair
L+L specially designed by an
epopt the quality or state of being equal ergonomist to prevent discomfort
n in force, power, or validity. from prolonged sitting.
/ SeTpBpt / One form of paradox consists in the
Gk apparent equipollence of two ergophobia
one instructed in a secret system. propositions, one of which is the
Because Ivan was an inexperienced negation of the other. eriometer
investor, he treated his stockbroker
like an epopt. equipollent eristic
adj
epos equitation / DSristik /
n Gk
/ SeTpBs / equivocal characterized by disputatious often
Gk subtle and specious reasoning.
a body of poetry expressing the equivocation The debater used eristic double-
tradition of a people. n talk to impress the judges.
The ancient epos survived in later / DTkwivESkCshEn /
literature. L erode
the act or an instance of making a
epsilon statement that deviates from or erose
misconstrues the truth.
equalize Felicity knew that equivocation
about the matter would keep her
equatable out of trouble, but she was
forthright in her response.
Page 91 of 289
erosion erythropsia escheator
n n
/ DSrPzhEn / / TerESthrBpsGE / esclavage
L Gk
land destruction and simultaneous a visual disturbance in which all escolar
removal of particles (as of soil) by objects appear reddish.
running water, waves and currents, Cyrus erroneously thought that the esculent
moving ice, or wind. expression “seeing the world
In some hilly areas terraces are through rose-colored glasses” had escutcheon
built to protect soils from erosion. something to do with erythropsia.
esne
errant escabeche n
n / SeznG /
erroneously / TeskESbCchC / E
adv Ar > Sp a laborer or man of the lower
/ DSrPnGEslG / fish or chicken fried in oil then classes among the Anglo-Saxons.
L>E marinated in a spicy sauce and While working in the fields, the
in a manner deviating from what is served cold. esne dreamed of marrying the
true, correct, right, or wise. Elena’s recipe for escabeche came master’s daughter and living in the
The noun phenomena is sometimes from her mother’s favorite Spanish manor house.
used erroneously with a singular cookbook.
verb. espousal
escalate n
error / DSspaUzEl /
escapade L>F>E
eruciform a taking up or adopting as a cause
adj escapement or belief.
/ DSrVsETfOrm / n The senator’s espousal of a
L / DSskCpmEnt / national health program has not
of an insect larva : having a soft L>F wavered during his three terms.
cylindrical body with a distinct the device in a timepiece which
head and usually short thoracic legs controls the motion of the train of esquamulose
: caterpillarlike. wheelwork.
Fred knew that the eruciform larva The use of an escapement in clocks esquisse
would spin a cocoon from which a dates back to the 14th century.
butterfly would emerge. essay
escarole
erythema n essayist
n / SeskETrPl / n
/ TerESthGmE / L > It > F / SeTsCDst /
Gk > L an annual or biennial herb widely L>F
abnormal redness of the skin due to cultivated as a salad plant. a writer of analytic, interpretative,
capillary congestion (as in Helga tossed a salad of escarole, or critical literary compositions.
inflammation). mushrooms, and tomatoes. As an essayist, Emerson can hardly
A small area of erythema on the be surpassed.
back of Hillary’s hand demarcated escharotic
the burn. essential
eschatological
erythrocyte estafette
eschatology
erythrophobia n
n / TeskEStBlEjG /
/ DTrithrESfPbGE / Gk
Gk a study or science dealing with the
fear of blushing. ultimate destiny or purpose of
Marvin’s erythrophobia is so humanity and the world.
severe that speaking in public is Min’s doctoral thesis in philosophy
torture for him. addresses the development of
eschatology among Asian cultures.
Page 92 of 289
estate Eucharist eugenics
n n n pl
/ DSstCt / / SyVk(E)rDst / / yVSjeniks /
F>E Gk Gk + Gk
the aggregate of property or a central rite in many Christian a science that deals with the
liabilities of all kinds that a person churches in which bread and wine improvement of hereditary qualities
leaves for disposal at his or her are consecrated by the officiating in a series of generations of a race
death. member of the clergy and or breed.
The estate of the deceased consumed as symbols for the Using eugenics to create a
billionaire has been tied up in realization of a spiritual union super20race of human beings is a
lawsuits for over 12 years. between Christ and communicant common theme in science fiction.
or as the body and blood of Christ.
estimate The Eucharist is considered by eulogistic
v most Christian churches to be the
/ SestETmCt / central act of the worship service. euonym
L
judge the value of. eucharistic euphemize
Arthur asked a real estate adj
appraiser to estimate the house. / TyVkESristik / euphenics
Gk > L n pl
estrange manifesting or expressing praise / yVSfeniks /
and thanksgiving. Gk + Gk
etching Bianca composed a eucharistic a science that deals with the
poem for the festival. biological improvement of human
ethereal beings after birth.
eucrasia Many people believe that euphenics
ethics n will be as common as dentistry in
/ yVSkrCzh(G)E / the next century.
ethnocentric Gk + Gk
a normal state of health : physical euphonious
ethylene well-being. adj
n To the ancient Greeks, eucrasia / yVSfPnGEs /
/ SethETlGn / resulted from the appropriate Gk
Gk > ISV balance of the four humors: blood, [Note: Could be confused with
a colorless flammable gas found in yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm. euphonous.] pleasing in sound.
coal gas or obtained from Allison is noted for her euphonious
petroleum hydrocarbons and used eudiometer voice and clear enunciation.
to ripen fruits or as an anesthetic. n
When ethylene is polymerized, the / TyVdGSBmEZE(r) / euphonium
product is polyethylene, a plastic Gk n
material used for making an instrument for the volumetric / yVSfPnGEm /
containers. measurement and analysis of gases Gk + Ecf
that involves the explosion of one a tenor tuba similar in shape, pitch,
etymological of the components of the mixture and range to the baritone but with a
adj by the passage of an electric spark. larger bore, a mellower tone
/ TeZEmESlBjDkEl / Rodney managed to set the quality, and often a double bell.
Gk chemistry lab on fire because he Rocky’s mom made him practice
belonging to, based on, or in accord did not understand how to use the his euphonium in the barn.
with the history often including the eudiometer.
prehistory of a linguistic form (as a euphony
word or morpheme).
The etymological meaning of the euphoria
word hippopotamus is “river
horse.”
etymologicon
Page 93 of 289
euphuism evangel ewe
n n
/ SyVfyETwizEm / / DSvanjEl / ewer
Gk > E name Gk
[has near homonym: euphemism] a doctrine regarded as having exacerbation
artificial and excessive elegance of special grace, sanction, or efficacy. n
language : high-flown diction. Elizabeth Cady Stanton called for a / igTzasE(r)SbCshEn /
Eli’s penchant for euphuism is kept new evangel of womanhood to exalt L
in check by his English teacher, Dr. purity, virtue, and morality. the act of making more violent,
Holquist. bitter, or severe.
evangelist Vigorous exercise can lead to acute
eupraxia exacerbation of asthmatic
evaporation symptoms.
Euripidean n
adj / DTvapESrCshEn / exaggeration
/ yETripESdGEn / L n
Gk name the change by which any substance / igTzajESrCshEn /
of, relating to, or characteristic of is converted from a liquid state into L
the Greek playwright Euripides or and carried off in vapor. the act of enlarging beyond bounds
his tragedies. The Mediterranean Sea loses much or the truth : overstatement.
In Euripidean tragedy, the chorus water through evaporation, leaving Uncle Joe’s description of the fish
provides charming interludes of behind extra-salty water that sinks he caught was a gross
song and dance. to the bottom. exaggeration.
European evection examen

adj n n
/ TyUrESpGEn / / DSvekshEn / / igSzCmDn /
Gk L L
of, relating to, or belonging to perturbation of the Moon’s motion a critical study (as of a writer or a
Europe or its inhabitants. in its orbit due to the attraction of phenomenon).
Since John, an Englishman, has a the Sun. Vera’s research was a sound,
European Union passport, he is Herman’s tidal calculations didn’t brilliant examen of the most
allowed to work in France. account for evection; as a result, he powerful English poet of this
was left high and dry. century.
euryphagous
evenhanded examination
eustachian
adj evermore examine
/ yVSstCshEn / v
It name evidence / igSzamDn /
of or relating to the bony and n L>F>E
cartilaginous tube connecting the / SevEdEn(t)s / inquire into the state of especially
cavity of the middle ear with the L by introspective processes.
nasopharynx. something legally submitted to a Shumin’s father told her to examine
As he began his dive, John pinched competent tribunal as a means of her conscience first and then
his nose, closed his mouth, and ascertaining the truth of any alleged consider how her action might look
attempted to blow out to allow his matter of fact under investigation to other people.
eustachian tubes to equalize the before it.
pressure in his ears. The suspect’s fingerprints on the exanthematic
murder weapon were sufficient adj
eutely evidence for his arrest. / egTzan(t)thESmaZik /
Gk
evacuate evil of or relating to an eruptive
disease—used especially of those
evadable evolution attended with fever (as in measles,
smallpox, and scarlatina).
evanesce evolvable Mrs. Hu decided that Wilson’s rash
was not exanthematic, so she let
evulsion him go out to play.
Page 94 of 289
exasperate exclusive exemplum
adj
exasperated / ikSsklVsiv / exempt
adj L
/ igSzaspETrCZEd / barring from participation : exequies
L snobbishly aloof. n pl
irritated or annoyed especially to The exclusive dog show allowed / SeksEkwGz /
the point of injudicious action. only registered dogs to participate. L>F>E
The movie star became so funeral rites or ceremonies.
exasperated with the excogitate The late king’s exequies were
photographers that he hurled his v solemnized with great pomp.
shoe at them. / ekSskBjETtCt /
L exergue
excavation examine mentally with
thoroughness and care so as to exfoliative
excavator obtain thorough grasp and adj
n comprehension of. / ekSsfPlGTCZiv /
/ SekskETvCZE(r) / Lindsay tried to excogitate the L
L topic thoroughly and outline his causing or characterized by the
a worker who digs out material or thoughts. peeling of the outer layer of the
digs cavities (as in quarrying or for skin.
building construction). excrescency Phil’s rash was diagnosed as
The excavator gasped when the exfoliative dermatitis.
side of the pit gave way to reveal a excrescential
dark chamber. exhalation
excruciating n
exceed adj / Teks(h)ESlCshEn /
v / ikSskrVshGTCtiN / L>F>E
/ ikSsGd / L something that is given off or that
L>F>E very intense : extreme. rises in the form of gas, fumes, or
[Note: Alternate pron has near An excruciating toothache kept steam.
homonym: accede.] go beyond a Marcel from enjoying the camping The wind carried a foul exhalation
limit set by (as an authority or trip. from the nearby marsh to the
privilege). Ackrill’s house.
Drivers who exceed the speed limit execrable
in the construction zone will be adj exhaust
fined a minimum of 200 dollars. / SeksDkrEbEl / n
L / igSzOst /
excel deserving to be declared evil or L
detestable. an arrangement (as of fans) for
exception For his execrable cruelty to the withdrawing undesirable fumes,
n victim, the assailant was given the dusts, or odors from an enclosure
/ ikSsepshEn / maximum prison sentence. (as a factory room or a kitchen).
L The safety inspector told Sharon
the act of excluding or omitting. executive that the greasy residue on the
The librarian made an exception kitchen exhaust was a fire hazard.
and permitted Sandy to take a exegesis
reference book out of the library. exhausting
exegetical adj
excerpt adj / igSzOstiN /
/ TeksESjeZDkEl / L
excipient Gk depriving wholly of strength,
relating to critical interpretation of patience, or resources.
a text or portion of Scripture. Robert’s exhausting exercise
The theologian was praised for his routine left him not only very tired
exegetical commentaries on the Old but also very hungry.
Testament.
exemplify
Page 95 of 289
exhibited exostosis expiration
v n n
/ igSzibDZDd / / TekTsBSstPsDs / / TekspESrCshEn /
L Gk L>E
presented to view : showed, a spur or bony outgrowth from a the action or process of releasing
displayed. bone or the root of a tooth. air through the nose or the mouth.
Elizabeth Ellen brought her The exostosis on Bertha’s big toe Mrs. Burnet’s expiration was
decorated cake into the room and had to be surgically removed. strained after her operation.
exhibited it quite proudly.
expectant expired
exhilarated adj
v / ikSspektEnt / explanation
/ igSzilETrCZDd / L
L characterized by anticipation : explement
made cheerful : enlivened. waiting.
The sailor felt exhilarated as his The expectant crowd outside the expletive
boat headed into the wind. palace gates had been in place
since before dawn. explicit
exhume
v expedient explore
/ igSzVm / v
L expediently / ikSsplP(E)r /
dig out of the ground : take out of a adv L
place of burial. / ikSspGdGEntlG / search through or into.
No matter where the bone is L “Dr. Craven had indeed begun to
buried, the dog will be able to in a manner characterized by wonder if it might not be wise to
exhume it. suitability, practicality, and send some one out to explore the
efficiency. garden paths.”
exigencies It is the responsibility of the explosible
n pl customer service representative to
/ SeksEjEnsGz / handle all complaints expediently. exponentially
L adv
requirements in a particular expedite / TekspESnenchElG /
situation. L
The Supreme Court supported the expel in a manner indicating variation in
theory of presidential power to which one variable factor depends
meet national exigencies. experiential upon another variable factor,
adj characterized by an extremely rapid
existence / ikTspirGSenchEl / increase (as in size or extent).
L For the past decade, sales of video
exogenous derived from, based on, or relating games have been growing
adj to experience : empirical. exponentially.
/ ekSsBjEnEs / Although based on experiential
Gk + Gk procedures and findings, many expound
originating from or due to external great scientific discoveries involve v
causes. a degree of intuition and luck. / ikSspaUnd /
The politician argued that the labor L>F>E
strife in his city was exogenous in experiment make a statement : present a view :
nature. comment.
expertise The interviewer asked Shana to
exonumia n expound on the new park proposal.
/ TekTspErStGz /
exorcism L expression
specialized skill or technical
knowledge in a particular field.
Jonathan’s expertise in database
management netted him an
excellent job.
Page 96 of 289
expropriate exterminated extraordinaire
v v adj
/ ekSsprPprGTCt / / ikSstErmETnCZDd / / ikTstrO(r)dFnSe(E)r /
L L L>F
take out of the possession of gotten rid of. markedly exceptional.
another : transfer (the property of The Grubes have exterminated the The Iowa Department of Education
another) to one’s own possession. rats in the cellar with rat poison. honored Mrs. Ledgerwood, a math
Roy was startled to find that the teacher extraordinaire.
government had the right to extirpation
expropriate his land if he didn’t n extrasensory
pay taxes. / TekstE(r)SpCshEn / adj
L / TekstrESsen(t)s(E)rG /
expurgate the act of destroying totally : L
v extermination. residing beyond or outside the
/ SekspE(r)TgCt / Expanding settlements have ordinary senses.
L resulted in the extirpation of vast Reading someone else’s thoughts is
cleanse of something morally forests. an example of extrasensory
harmful, offensive, or erroneous. perception.
Before publishing the manuscript extortion
the editors will expurgate it of any n extremity
slanderous material. / ikSstO(E)rshEn / n
L / ikSstremEZG /
expurgatory [has homonym: extorsion] the act L>F>E
or practice of obtaining something an outlying or terminal part,
exscind from an unwilling or reluctant section, or point.
person by physical force, The state’s westernmost extremity
extension intimidation, or the abuse of legal is nothing but flat open prairie.
n or official authority.
/ ikSstenchEn / The gang leaders were arrested for extrinsic
L their extortion of money from local adj
a dance movement in which the leg merchants. / ekSstrinzik /
is extended at an angle to the body. L
Lily’s teacher told her she would extra of or relating to the outside of.
have to work on her extension until n The nondescript extrinsic
it was perfect. / SekstrE / appearance of the old building
L belied the architectural wonders
extent an additional worker hired for a within.
motion picture or stage production
extenuate to augment the number of people in extrorse
v a crowd or group scene. adj
/ ikSstenyETwCt / When he was in China, Mark was / SekTstrOrs /
L an extra in a film requiring a L
lessen or try to lessen the real or crowd of Western Europeans. turned away from the axis of
apparent seriousness of (as a crime, growth.
offense, or fault) or extent of by extradition When the anther of a flower turns
making partial excuses. n away from the pistils and toward
No excuse can extenuate Kevin’s / TekstrESdishEn / the petals, it is said to be
trying to pass off Adam’s work as F+L “extrorse.”
his own. the surrender of an alleged criminal exude
usually under the provisions of a v
extenuations treaty or statute by one authority / igSzVd /
n pl (as a state) to another having L
/ ikTstenyESwCshEnz / jurisdiction to try the charge. undergo diffusion : emanate.
L Mrs. Thorpe was arrested in Sweet odors exude from the shrubs
acts of partial justification. Arkansas but is fighting extradition around Myra’s patio.
Jason’s letter of apology conveyed to Missouri, where she allegedly
many extenuations that were assaulted a sales manager.
comforting to Julia.
extrados
Page 97 of 289
exultant factual fairway
adj
/ igSzEltEnt / faculty faja
L n
filled with extreme joy. facundity / SfB(T)hB /
The racer was exultant when she n L > Catal > Sp
crossed the finish line first. / faSkEndEZG / a wide bright sash worn around the
L waist.
exultantly [Note: Could be confused with Don Roberto wore his lucky faja
adv fecundity.] eloquence. every time he ran with the bulls.
/ igSzEltFntlG / Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is a
L shining example of facundity. falciform
in a manner filled with extreme joy. adj
She laughed exultantly when her fadeaway / SfalsETfOrm /
practical joke worked and her L
brother was covered in paint. faena having the shape of a scythe or
n sickle.
exuviate / fBSCnE / Roderick drew a somber night
v L > Catal > Sp scene dominated by a falciform
/ igSzVvGTCt / the series of final passes by the moon.
L matador with sword and muleta
molt. leading to the kill. falconry
When a snake begins to exuviate, it Many members of the audience left n
rolls over several times to loosen the bullfight hastily when the / SfalkEnrG /
the skin covering its head. matador began the faena. Gmc? > L > F > E
the art of training falcons to pursue
eyebrow failure and to attack wild fowl or game.
n The king’s oldest servant was a
eyewitness / SfClyE(r) / master of falconry.
n F
/ SISwitnDs / lack of satisfactory performance or falling
E+E effect.
one that sees or has seen an The candidate’s failure to address falsifier
occurrence or an object with his or the people’s complaints resulted in
her own eyes and so is able to give his losing the election. falter
a firsthand report on it. v
An eyewitness gave the detective a fain / SfOltE(r) /
helpful description of the robber. adv Scand? > E
/ SfCn / [has homonym: faulter] speak
fabaceous E brokenly or weakly : hesitate,
[has homonym: feign] happily, stammer.
fable joyfully : with glad preference. Stefan recited seven verses of the
The feisty cat would fain have poem before he began to falter.
fabric chased the dog from his yard.
familiarity
fabulist fainness
n familiarization
/ SfabyElDst / fainthearted
L famine
[Note: Could be confused with faintly
fabulous.] a creator or writer of adv fanciest
fables, especially those that carry a / SfCntlG /
moral lesson. F>E fanciness
Aesop is frequently called slightly, indistinctly.
“history’s greatest fabulist.” There was a low fire glowing fancywork
facetiously faintly on the hearth.
fanfare
factor fairground
fanged
Page 98 of 289
fanglement fascist fate
adj n
fantasque / SfashDst / / SfCt /
L > It L
fantasticality of or relating to any program for [has homonym: fete] ultimate lot
setting up a centralized autocratic or disposition : final outcome.
fantastically national regime with severely Hans Van Ripper now began to feel
adv nationalistic policies, exercising some uneasiness about the fate of
/ fanStastDk(E)lG / regimentation of industry, poor Ichabod.
Gk > L > F > E + Ecff commerce, and finance, rigid
unbelievably, extremely. censorship, and forcible fatuously
Lillian wore her fantastically suppression of opposition. adv
expensive diamond necklace to the Fascist ideology shares with / SfachEwEslG /
governor’s ball. liberalism an opposition to big L
business, trade unions, and the in a foolish, stupid, absurd, or silly
farce socialist state. manner.
The clown performed fatuously to
farcicality fascistization the children’s delight.
fare fasten faultless

v
farfetched / SfasFn / faulty
E
farina cause parts which are separate to faun
n hold together : make fast and
/ fESrGnE / secure. faustian
L The kindergarten teacher spent two
the coarsely ground bolted weeks teaching the children how to fauve
endosperm of wheats other than fasten their clothing.
durum, free from fine flour or bran. fear
Before rice cereal for babies fastener v
became widely available, cereal / Sfi(E)r /
made from farina was often used. fastidiously E
adv be afraid of.
farrier / faSstidGEslG / Only after she saw its teeth and
L + Ecf claws did Severine begin to fear the
farriery in a manner that reflects a cute little raccoon.
meticulous, sensitive, or
fascicular demanding attitude. fearsome
Vera’s insistence on dressing adj
fascination fastidiously for every occasion / Sfi(E)rsEm /
precluded her going anywhere on E
fascinator short notice. arousing or likely to arouse fear,
n fright, or terror.
/ SfasFnCZE(r) / fastigiate Kim spent a fearsome night in the
L woods.
a woman’s light head scarf usually fastuous
of crochet or lace. feast
Doris appeared at the door fatally n
wearing a long cloak and a candy- / SfGst /
striped fascinator over her dark L>F>E
hair. an elaborate meal.
Susan had packed a basket which
held a regular feast this morning.
feathery
febrile
Page 99 of 289
February fenster ferriferous
n n adj
/ SfebrETwerG / / SfenztE(r) / / fESrif(E)rEs /
L L>G L
the second month of the Gregorian an erosional opening down through containing iron.
calendar. overthrust rock exposing the Hematite and magnetite are
Kevin’s car quit for good in underlying rock. ferriferous minerals.
February. Gabe took a long hike in the
national park to find the large ferrotype
feculent fenster mentioned in his guidebook. n
/ SferETtIp /
federation feodary L + Gk
a positive photograph made by a
feeble ferity collodion process on a thin iron
n plate and having a darkened
fei / SferEZG / surface.
L A 19th-century ferrotype depicting
felicitations [has homonym: ferrety] the state of Supreme Court Justice Levi
being undomesticated : wildness. Woodbury sold at auction for
feline Even after several years in a zoo, $24,000.
the lion occasionally displayed its
felinity ferity. ferrumination
feloniously ferment ferry

adv
/ fESlPnGEslG / fermiere ferryboat
L>F>E adj
in a manner having the nature of or / fermyeer / fertile
involving a grave crime. F
Garcia was feloniously relieved of of a food : prepared in plain fervently
his boombox by a couple of country style.
hoodlums. The signature dish at the quiet fervor
country inn was pot roast fermiere.
felony festinate
n fernbrake adj
/ SfelEnG / / SfestETnCt /
F ferny L
a serious crime usually punishable hasty.
by a sentence heavier than that for feroce Jeremy had a hard time keeping up
a misdemeanor. with Noah’s festinate gait as the
Filing a false income tax return is a ferociously two boys neared the movie theater.
felony punishable by imprisonment adv
and a fine. / fESrPshEslG / festival
L + Ecff
femerell in a manner characterized by wild festoonery
or extreme rapacity, cruelty,
feminie acrimony, or destructiveness.
A large cat ferociously snarled at
feminize Beth’s puppy.
femur ferocity
ferried
Page 100 of 289

festschrift feverishly fidgeting
n adv v
/ SfestTshrift / / SfGv(E)rishlG / / SfijDtiN /
G L > E + Ecff E?
a usually miscellaneous volume of in an agitated manner. moving uneasily one way and the
writings from several hands for a Jay lay sleepless and feverishly other.
celebration; especially : one of went over the day’s events. The teacher told Caleb to either
learned essays contributed by stop his fidgeting or go do his work
admirers to honor a scholar on a fiador at a desk outside the classroom
special anniversary. door.
The retiring Dr. Mayer was fiat
presented with a festschrift that fidgety
included a piece by a former fibrated
student who had won a Pulitzer field
Prize. fibrillogenic
fielder
feta fibrinogen n
n / SfGldE(r) /
fete / fISbrinEjDn / E
v L + ISV + Gk a player positioned in the outer
/ SfCt / a globulin that is produced in the portion of the playing area (as in
F liver and is converted into a protein baseball or cricket).
[has homonyms: fait, fate] honor during clotting of blood. The fielder moved all the way back
(a person) or commemorate (an Proteins in the blood include to the warning track to catch the fly
event) with a festive celebration. albumin, hemoglobin, and ball.
Mr. Armstrong’s employees voted fibrinogen.
to fete him with a black-tie dinner. fiends
fibula n pl
fetid n / SfGn(d)z /
/ SfibyElE / E
fetidness L infernal beings : demons.
n the outer and usually the smaller of The fiends portrayed in the
/ SfeZDdnDs / the two bones between the knee painting represented greed and
L + Ecf and ankle in most birds and many ambition.
the state or condition of having an mammals including humans.
offensive smell. After breaking his fibula while fiercely
For some people, Limburger sliding into second base, Roderick adv
cheese’s fetidness is directly knew his season was over. / Sfi(E)rslG /
proportional to its tastiness. L>F>E
fictional in a manner without mercy.
fetter The hurricane fiercely hit the
v fiddle coastal town, leaving many beach
/ SfeZEr / cottages and business
E fidget establishments in ruin.
bind (a thing or person) to another
as if with a chain. fidgeted fife
The young mother had to fetter her v
active three-year-old with a child / SfijDtDd / fifer
harness to take him shopping. E + Ecf
moved uneasily one way and
fettuccelle another.
The longer the speech went on, the
feudal more Kevin fidgeted.
feuilleton fidgetiness
feverish
Page 101 of 289

fight filipendulous Finlandization
v adj n
/ SfIt / / TfilESpenjElEs / / TfinlEndDSzCshEn /
E L geog name
contend physically for victory with suspended by or strung upon a a foreign policy of neutrality.
vigor, fierceness, and thread. Finlandization has its roots in the
determination. The glittering filipendulous stars neutrality policy of Finland.
Soldiers continued to fight on the were very effective when the
ridge until nightfall. ballroom lights were dimmed. fipple
figment filly firearm
figurable filmography firebreak

n
figure / filSmBgrEfG / firefly
v E + Gk n
/ SfigyE(r) / a list of motion pictures featuring / SfI(E)rTflI /
L>F>E the work of a prominent motion E+E
compute, reckon. picture figure (as an actor or a winged nocturnal insect usually
Erwin tried to figure his grocery director) or relating to a particular producing a bright soft intermittent
bill in his head, but he kept losing topic. light.
track of the numbers. The biography of the director When the light of the captured
provided a complete filmography. firefly started to dim, Nell decided
figurine it was time to set the bug free.
filmwright
filamentary fishery
adj filthily
/ TfilESmentErG / fishmonger
L>F fimbriate
having the characteristics of a long fishplate
thin flexible object. fimbriation
The filamentary leg probably had n fissionable
belonged to a camel cricket or a / TfimbrGSCshEn /
daddy longlegs. L fissiped
a narrow border to a heraldic adj
filar design. / SfisETped /
The family’s coat of arms depicted L
filbert a griffon within a blue fimbriation. having the toes separated to the
base :
filiality fimbrillate cloven-footed.
n adj Goats and pigs are some of the
/ TfilGSalEZG / / SfimbrETlCt / most common fissiped mammals.
L L
the relation or attitude of a child to [Note: Could be confused with fistful
a parent. fibrillate.] bordered with a minute
Although Tom and his father often fringe. fistiana
disagreed, the bonds of filiality Deb examined the fimbrillate petals n
always held firm. under the microscope. / TfistGSanE /
E + Ecf
filiopietistic finale the world of boxing.
Muhammad Ali set fistiana on its
finally ear when he defeated George
Foreman in Zaire.
financial
fistmele
finespun
finial
Page 102 of 289

fixedly flaming fleabag
adv adj
/ SfiksDdlG / / SflCmiN / fleece
E + Ecff L > F > E + Ecf
in a stationary or immovable blazing. fletching
manner. The flaming crackling fire could be n
Barry stared fixedly at the hail seen throughout the valley. / SflechiN /
damage to his car. F>E
flannelmouth the feathers on an arrow.
fizgig An arrow will not fly straight if the
flapdoodle fletching is crooked.
fizzwater
flareless fleuron
fjeld
flary flexible
flabbergast adj
/ Sfla(a)rG / flicker
flabellum unknown + Ecf
showy and bright. flight
flagellate Pam’s orange dress seemed too
flary compared to the attire of the flippancy
flagellatory others at the funeral.
adj flipper
/ SflajElETtPrG / flashcube n
L n / SflipE(r) /
relating to the act of flogging or / SflashTkyVb / imit
beating. imit E + Gk > L > F a broad flat usually rubber shoe
The sailors were warned that a plastic cube containing four with the front expanded into a
disruptive behavior would result in flashbulbs that fits into the top of a paddle used in skin diving and
flagellatory punishment. camera and revolves after each other aquatic sports.
shot. Doug got his flipper snagged in the
flagrant Franklin forgot to bring a coral and had to leave it behind.
adj flashcube, so he couldn’t take any
/ SflCgrEnt / pictures at the party. flivver
L
extremely, flauntingly, or flask floccose
purposefully conspicuous usually n
because of uncommon evil, / Sflask / floeberg
unworthiness, unpleasantness, or Gmc > L > Sp > F
truculence. [Note: The definition provided is flooey
Horace’s flagrant disregard of the not the one most commonly
club rule about wearing cowboy associated with this word.] a unit of floraison
hats got him kicked out weight for mercury equal to 76
peremptorily. pounds. floral
Marcie explained that the amount adj
flailing of mercury in a thermometer was a / SflPrEl /
v tiny fraction of a flask. L
/ SflCliN / of, relating to, or associated with a
E flatcar flower.
moving, swinging, or beating as The floral emblem of the state of
though wielding a threshing flattery Tennessee is the iris.
implement.
The novice skier tumbled down the flaunt floribunda
hill, his arms flailing desperately in
the air. flavescent
flamboyant flavid
flamethrower flavorless
Page 103 of 289

florigen flurries fodient
n n pl adj
/ SflPrEjDn / / SflErGz / / SfPdGEnt /
L + Gk imit? L
a hormone that induces flowering. sudden showers or snowfalls with a fitted for digging or burrowing.
The horticulture expert explained gust of wind. The aardvark is a well-known
how pinching back dead blossoms The forecast was for intermittent fodient animal in South Africa.
stimulated the production of flurries with no measurable
florigen. accumulation. foil
n
florin flurry / SfOil /
n L>F>E
/ SflOrDn / fluster [Note: The definition provided is
L > It > F > E not the one most commonly
an old gold coin first struck at fluttering associated with this word.] a
Florence in 1252 weighing about v fencing weapon that resembles an
54 grains and noted for the purity / SflEZE(r)iN / épée but has a flat guard and a
of its gold. E + Ecf lighter, more flexible blade that
The pride of Valentine’s coin moving with quick vibrations or tapers to a blunt point.
collection is a florin supposedly undulations. The instructor showed Bella how to
once the property of Christopher With his clothes bagging and back her opponent into a corner
Columbus. fluttering about him on a windy with a few quick movements of her
day, he might be mistaken for some foil.
floristry scarecrow escaped from a
cornfield. foldout
flounder
fluviatile foliation
flourishes
n pl fluviology folio
/ SflErishDz / n
L>F>E / TflVvGSBlEjG / folkloric
ostentations in the performance of L adj
something often intended to call a science dealing with / SfPkTlPrik /
forth or fix attention or admiration. watercourses. E+E
Todd stood up after his piano Oliver needs one course in of, resembling, or characteristic of
recital and, with many bows and fluviology in order to get his traditional customs, beliefs, dances,
flourishes, slowly left the stage. professional civil engineering songs, tales, or sayings preserved
license. among a people or group.
flowage The Slovakian dance troupe
n flysch performed a folkloric dance
/ SflPij / n wearing colorful costumes.
E / Sflish /
an overflowing (as of a stream or G folklorist
impoundment) onto adjacent land. a thick and extensive deposit
The flowage from a nearby creek largely of sandstone that is formed folletto
into Mr. Goog’s basement ruined in a geosyncline adjacent to a rising n
his stamp collection. mountain belt and is especially / fESleZ(T)P /
common in the Alpine region of F > It
fluffy Europe. imp, goblin, fairy; especially : a
The geologist analyzed samples of supernatural being who is a
fluke the flysch to determine when the survival in popular form of an
rock was formed. ancient Etruscan or Roman deity.
flump Nancy jokingly blamed her actions
foaming on an imaginary friend, a folletto
fluorine who sat on her shoulder and gave
focusable her advice.
fluoroscope
follicle
Page 104 of 289

foment footman foreknowledge
n
fomites / SfUtTmEn / foresee
E
Fomorian a servant in attendance upon the foresightedly
n passengers in a carriage. adv
/ fPSmOrGEn / Mary saw that it was a stylish / SfPrTsIZDdlG /
IrGael carriage and that it was a stylish E
one of a race of sea robbers in footman who helped her into the with a view toward the future.
Celtic legend who were probably carriage. The state foresightedly created
originally gods representing the state parks and reservations along
powers of evil and darkness. foozled the seashore so as to preserve its
Caitlin wrote a fable about a natural beauty.
Fomorian who emerged foppery
periodically from the sea off the n forest
coast of Ireland. / SfBp(E)rG /
E forestall
fondant folly, absurdity. v
There was an air of foppery and / fPrSstOl /
fondu nonsense in Mr. Churchill’s action E
n of which Emma could not approve. [has near homonym: forestal]
/ fBnSd(y)V / exclude, hinder, or prevent by prior
F forb occupation or by measures taken in
[has homonym: fondue] a lowering advance.
or sinking down of the body in forbiddance By traveling to his vacation spot
ballet dancing by bending the knee incognito, the film star hoped to
of the supporting leg. forbivorous forestall rumors of his arrival.
Fondu was a difficult movement for
Orson before his knee surgery. forcible forester
n
foolhardily forcibly / SfOrDstE(r) /
F>E
foolhardiness forcipiform a person who supervises the
development, care, and
foolhardy forearm management of timberland.
adj The forester showed the class his
/ SfVlThBrdG / foreground list of sightings of endangered
F>E n wildlife species.
daring but lacking judgment : / SfP(E)rTgraUnd /
foolishly adventurous and bold. Ecf + E foreyard
The high dive from the cliffs looked the part of a scene that is nearest to
foolhardy, but Ellen knew that the and in front of the spectator. forficiform
water beneath was deep and clear. Although there were many actors in adj
the scene, the main action was / fOrSfisETfOrm /
footage taking place in the foreground. L
n shaped like a scissors.
/ SfUZTij / foreign The jeweler’s forficiform tweezers
E gave her a better grip on the tiny
the total number of running feet of foreigner watch parts.
motion-picture film used for a n
complete story or for one or more / SfOrDnE(r) / forgeability
scenes or for any subject. E n
The director told the film editors a person belonging to or owing / TfP(E)rjESbilEZG /
that they would have to cut out allegiance to another L>E
enough footage to keep the movie land : alien. suitability for being formed by
under 2 hours. Everyone in New Prague liked the heating and hammering.
foreigner who moved into the Some alloys exhibit greater
Simpsons’ old house. forgeability than others.
Page 105 of 289

orgetfulness foully fragrance
n
forgettable fountain / SfrCgrEn(t)s /
L>F
formalization fourberie a pleasant odor.
The fragrance of mulled cider
formally fourfold wafted down the hallway.
formatore fourplex frail

n
formicarium fowl / SfrCl /
F>E
formicine frabjous [Note: The definition provided is
adj not the one most commonly
formula / SfrabjEs / associated with this word.] the
unknown quantity (as 32, 56, or 75 pounds)
formulate wonderful. of raisins contained in a shipping
v Vonda thought happily that her basket.
/ SfOrmyETlCt / graduation party was the final While working in the agricultural
L + Ecf event of a simply frabjous day. records office, Wanda learned that
plan out in an orderly fashion. a frail is used to measure raisins.
The board decided to call in a fractal
consultant to help formulate plans n framboise
for the new factory. / SfraktFl /
L franchisal
formulator any of various extremely irregular
curves or shapes that repeat Franciscan
fortississimo themselves at any scale on which adj
they are examined and that are / franSsiskEn /
fortitudinous assigned fractional dimensions. It name
Julia’s science project of or relating to the various
fortress demonstrated that the shape of a religious foundations established
n snowflake is a fractal. by St. Francis of Assisi.
/ SfOrtrDs / The Franciscan church in Basel,
L>F>E fractionally Switzerland, was used for a long
a fortified place : stronghold. time as a warehouse for salt.
The refugees began to feel safe fractious
once they were deep within the Francoist
fortress. fractography n
/ SfraNkPDst /
fortuitously fracturable Sp name
an advocate of or adherent to the
forum fracture political or social policies of the
n Spanish dictator Francisco Franco.
forward / SfrakchE(r) / The Francoist claimed that if they
L had waited any longer to rise
foster the breaking of hard tissue (as against the Republic, a Bolshevik
bone). revolution would have broken out.
fother Mike’s fall off the ladder resulted
n in the fracture of his thighbone. Franconian
/ SfBLE(r) / adj
E fragility / fraNSkPnGEn /
[has homonym: father] a modern G geog name
unit of weight for lead equal to 19½ fragmentary of or relating to the West Germanic
hundredweight. dialects of the Franks.
Scott celebrated when his new fragmentize The earliest Franconian written
company recovered its first fother documents belong to the late 8th or
of refined lead from recycled scrap. early 9th century.
Page 106 of 289

frangibility frenular frightened
n adj adj
/ TfranjESbilEZG / / SfrenyElE(r) / / SfrItFnd /
L + Ecff L E
the quality or state of being of or relating to a connecting fold made afraid : scared.
breakable. of membrane serving to support or The frightened child was calmed by
Winnie appreciates the beauty of restrain. his mother’s embrace.
glass ornaments so much that their After Gary took his classmate’s
frangibility does not discourage her dare and licked the frozen pump frightening
from buying them. handle, the frenular tissue under
his tongue hurt for a week. frightful
Franglais
n frenzied frigid
/ frBMSglC / adj
F frequency / SfrijDd /
French marked by a considerable L
number of borrowings from frequently markedly lacking heat or warmth :
English. very cold.
Even after three years of French freshet The mountain climbers wore extra
lessons and a year as an exchange layers of clothing to combat the
student in Cannes, Peter still fretful frigid conditions.
speaks Franglais.
fretum frigidarium
frappe
fribble frijoles
fraternity v
/ SfribEl / friseur
frazil unknown n
act in a trifling or foolish manner. / frGSzEr /
frazzle Mr. Atkinson told the students not F
to fribble during study hall but to [Note: Could be confused with
freesia read and write quietly. freezer.] hairdresser.
n Fernando plans to name his beauty
/ SfrGzh(G)E / friction shop “Fernando the Fantastic
G name + Lcf n Friseur.”
any plant of a genus of sweet- / SfrikshEn / fritter
scented herbs with narrow tubular L n
red, white, or yellow flowers. resistance to the relative motion of / SfriZE(r) /
The most colorful flower in one body sliding, rolling, or L>F>E
Davida’s bouquet was the freesia. flowing over another with which it a small quantity of batter often
is in contact. containing fruit or meat and fried in
freestyle The friction of the large door deep fat or sautéed.
against its frame kept Janice Eddie and George each ate a large
freezing tugging on it for several long apple fritter at the carnival.
adj seconds.
/ SfrGziN / frond
E friezing
very cold. frons
After the first freezing night of the frighten n
season, Greg unhappily discovered v / SfrBnz /
that his car battery had died. / SfrItFn / L
E + Ecf [has near homonym: fronds] the
freighter markedly disturb with fear. upper or the anterior part of the
Gary did not realize how much his head capsule of an insect : the
freijo Halloween mask would frighten his forehead of the insect head.
little brother. Simple eyes of an insect are usually
located on the frons.
frontier
Page 107 of 289

frontolysis fugacity fumigation
n n
frostbitten / fyVSgasEZG / / TfyVmESgCshEn /
adj L L>F>E
/ SfrOstTbitFn / lack of enduring qualities : the act or process of treating with a
E+E transience. gas in order to disinfect or destroy
injured, nipped, or withered by the The movie star soon experienced pests.
process of freezing. the fugacity of public adoration. When Deedee saw a cockroach, she
The skier’s mask saved him from called the exterminator and
getting a frostbitten nose. fugitives arranged for the fumigation of her
n pl new apartment.
frostbow / SfyVjEZivz /
L fumulus
fructose individuals who run away from a n
n master or employer or from / SfyVmyElEs /
/ SfrEkTtPs / uncongenial surroundings. L
L Sojourner Truth, one of the many a thin cloud resembling a veil and
a sugar that occurs especially in fugitives from slavery, became as forming at any level.
fruit juices and honey. famous for advocating women’s The sky was clear except for a
Fructose is a common ingredient in rights as she was for denouncing fumulus over the distant mountains.
many baked goods found in stores. human bondage.
function
frugivorous fulgent
adj adj functional
/ frVSjivErEs / / SfUljEnt /
L+L L fundamental
feeding on fruit. dazzlingly bright : radiant.
Monkeys and apes are among the Sophia’s diamond earrings were fundamentally
best-known frugivorous mammals. fulgent in the sunlight.
funerary
frumentaceous fulgurous
adj fungible
/ TfrVmEnStCshEs / fulmar adj
L / SfEnjEbEl /
made of or resembling wheat or fulminating L
other grain. adj of such a kind that one specimen or
The seeds of many frumentaceous / SfUlmETnCtiN / part may be used in place of
plants such as corn and oats can be L>E another specimen or equal part to
ground into meal. coming on suddenly and with great satisfy an obligation—used of
severity : characterized by a rapid things that can be counted,
fuchsias and severe course. weighed, or measured and are
n pl Dr. Lane dreaded telling his patient consumed or alienated by use (as
/ SfyVshEz / the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, food, coal, oil, lumber).
G name a fulminating disease. When fungible goods of different
any of numerous decorative shrubs countries of origin are mixed
with pendulous tetramerous flowers fumblingly together, it is not practical to
often cultivated as potted plants. adv identify the origin of one sample of
Grandma lined her windowsill with / SfEmbliNlG / the product.
fuchsias. Scand? + Ecff
in a manner marked by groping or funipendulous
fuel clumsiness. adj
Katie fumblingly related her excuse / TfyVnESpenjElEs /
to her father. L
suspended by a rope or cord.
Daniel jokingly called his tire
swing a “funipendulous
recreational facility.”
Page 108 of 289

funnel furlongs futon
n n pl n
/ SfEnFl / / SfErTlONz / / SfVTtBn /
L > OProv > E E Jpn
a utensil that has typically a hollow units of distance, each being equal a mattress filled usually with cotton
cone with a tube extending from to 220 yards. that is placed on the floor or in a
the point and is designed to catch The second race, for fillies only, is raised frame for use as a bed.
and direct the flow of a liquid or six furlongs. Many people whose living and
other substance. sleeping quarters are in the same
Mary Ann used a funnel to direct furnace room find that a futon meets their
the oil into the bottle. needs nicely.
furrows
furbelow v futurama
n / SfEr(T)Pz /
/ SfErbETlP / E fuzzy
F>E shapes into alternate ridges and
ruffle; specifically : a flounce on grooves; specifically : makes gabarit
women’s clothing. wrinkles in (the brow).
Delia sewed a furbelow to the hem When Mr. Burns furrows his brow gabby
of her skirt. in puzzlement, he reminds his
students of a shar-pei. gabelle
furcate
adj furuncle gabfest
/ SfErTkCt / n
L / SfyUTrENkEl / gable
branching like a fork. L
The toddler held the furcate twig up a localized inflammatory swelling gadarene
to his mom and whispered the letter of the skin and underlying tissues adj
y. that is caused by infection by a / SgadETrGn /
bacterium in a hair follicle or skin Palestinian geog name
furioso gland and that discharges pus and a rushing precipitously forward :
central core of dead tissue. engaged in headlong flight.
furiously A painful furuncle developed inside As the department store opened, a
adv Amy’s elbow. crazed gadarene horde of shoppers
/ SfyUrGEslG / rushed headlong to the sales tables.
L > F > E + Ecf fury
in an impassioned manner : angrily. n gadgetry
The soldiers furiously pursued the / SfyUrG / n
raiders but could not catch them. L / SgajDtrG /
violent anger : rage. unknown
furl George’s sadness changed to fury, usually small and often novel
and he stalked about the room mechanical or electronic devices or
furlong feeling as if he would explode. contrivances.
n Anyone who loves gadgetry would
/ SfErTlON / fustigate have enjoyed the recent Inventor’s
E v Expo.
a unit of distance equal to 1/8 / SfEstETgCt /
statute mile. L Gaelic
The horses named “Katie’s criticize severely. adj
Delight” and “Going for Gold” Many restaurants withdrew their / SgClik /
were neck and neck through the advertising when the newspaper’s ScGael & IrGael
entire last furlong of the race. food critic began to fustigate them. of, relating to, or characteristic of
the language of the Gaels or
fusuma especially of the Celtic Highlanders
of Scotland.
Steve struggled through the Gaelic
program for the Highland Games
before he discovered the English
translation.
Page 109 of 289

gaffer galbulus galimatias
n n
/ SgafE(r) / / SgalbyElEs / gallant
E? L adj
an electrician in charge of the a spherical closed fleshy cone of / SgalEnt /
lighting of motion-picture or thickened or fleshy peltate scales Gmc > F > E
television sets. (as in the cypress). marked by a blend of the high-
The gaffer tried various lighting As we moved through the swamp, spirited, brave, dashing, and
techniques to see which would be an occasional galbulus fell into our chivalrous.
most consistent with the mood of canoe. The press conference featured
the scene. speeches in praise of the gallant
gale adventurers who had rescued the
gaillardia n lost hikers.
/ SgCl /
gaiters unknown galley
n pl [has homonym: Gael] a strong
/ SgCZE(r)z / current of air; specifically : a wind Gallinazo
Gmc > F having a speed from 32 to 63 miles adj
[has homonym: gators] cloth or per hour. / TgB(y)GSnB(T)sP /
leather leg coverings reaching from Despite the fierce gale and high L > Sp
the instep to ankle, mid-calf, or seas, the Coast Guard set out to of or relating to an ancient culture
knee, usually fastened by buttons or rescue the shipwreck survivors. of northern Peru characterized
buckles, and held by a strap under especially by negative-painted
the shank of the shoe. galena pottery, irrigation, and textiles.
The bishop was hard at work n Patty applied for a grant to study
fastening the lower buttons of his / gESlGnE / Gallinazo pottery at an excavation
gaiters as the service was ready to Gk in Peru.
begin. a mineral consisting of native lead
sulfide occurring in cubic or Gallionic
galactose octahedral crystals, bluish gray in adj
color with metallic luster. / TgalGSBnik /
galah Paul gave his brother a near- L
perfect cube of galena for his marked by indifference or
Galahad mineral collection. easygoing carelessness or
n irresponsibility.
/ SgalEThad / galenical Randall’s Latin teacher told him
E name n that his Gallionic attitude toward
a man marked by unusual purity / gCSlenDkEl / homework would negatively affect
and self-sacrificing devotion to a Gk name his grade.
noble cause. a standard medicinal preparation
A true Galahad, Jim has spent his (as extract, tincture) containing galvanic
entire life trying to find solutions to usually one or more active adj
the problem of poverty. constituents of a plant and made by / galSvanik /
a process that leaves the inert and It name
galanterie other undesirable constituents of of, relating to, or producing direct
the plant undissolved. electric current by chemical action.
galantine A galenical was a common type of Myra constructed a galvanic cell
medicine in the Middle Ages. using a bar of zinc, a bar of copper,
galaxies two beakers, a U-shaped tube, and
n pl Galilean solutions of zinc and copper sulfate
/ SgalEksGz / adj and potassium chloride.
Gk / TgalESlCEn /
large systems of stars that make up Ital name
the universe. of or relating to Galileo Galilei,
The Milky Way is just one of the founder of experimental physics
universe’s countless galaxies. and astronomy.
Opera glasses are a modified
version of the Galilean telescope.
Page 110 of 289

galvanometer gargoyle gasp
n n
/ TgalvESnBmEZE(r) / garibaldi / Sgasp /
It name > F + Ecf + Gk n E
an instrument for detecting or / TgarESbOldG / catch the breath convulsively and
measuring a small electric current It name audibly.
by movements of a magnetic a woman’s blouse copied from the Mary caught her breath in a short
needle or of a coil in a magnetic red shirt worn by the Italian patriot gasp and felt herself turn pale.
field. Garibaldi.
The lie detector’s galvanometer Antonio followed his mother gasped
indicated that the subject was lying. through the crowded market,
keeping a sharp eye on her bright gastrostomy
gambrel garibaldi. n
/ gaSstrBstEmG /
gamester garlicky Gk
the surgical formation of an
gamier garment opening through the abdominal
adj wall into the stomach to serve for
/ SgCmGE(r) / garner the introduction of food.
E + Ecff The doctor recommends a
more malodorous. garnet gastrostomy as the best solution to
The smell in the hut was gamier n keeping Alice alive during her
than Maria could tolerate. / SgBrnDt / coma.
F>E
gamin a brittle mineral usually red in color gateado
and occurring mainly in crystals n
gammon and used as a semiprecious stone / TgBZGSB(T)dP /
and as an abrasive. L > Sp
ganancial Alice asked the jeweler to suggest a a tropical American timber tree that
setting for the garnet she inherited yields a hard dense black-streaked
ganglionitis from her great aunt. wood used to make furniture.
The antique library table was made
gangly garnish from gateado.
v
gangrenous / SgBrnish / gatepost
Gmc > F > E
gangway add decorative or savory touches gatherum
to. n
gannet Rita used fresh dill to garnish the / SgaLErEm /
platter of smoked salmon. E + Ecf
gape a collection of miscellaneous items.
garniture Alan referred to his assortment of
gaping n beach glass and driftwood as a
adj / SgBrnDchE(r) / “gatherum,” but his mother called
/ SgCpiN / F it “Alan’s junk.”
ON > E the material in fireworks that gaud
wide open. produces stars, fiery rain, or other n
The giant raised his hand toward display after explosion. / SgOd /
his gaping mouth, and the Humbug Lin Yu calculated how much L>F>E
shut his eyes tightly and clasped garniture would be needed to [has homonym: god] ornament;
both hands over his head. create the special fireworks for the especially : a showy or flashy bit of
Independence Day celebration. jewelry or finery.
garbage The blackbird was attracted by the
gasket red glass gaud pinned to the shirt
garbologist of the scarecrow.
gaslight
garbure gaudery
gasohol
garganey gaudify
Page 111 of 289

gaudy gemination Although he always means well,
Cedric has a positive genius for
gaullist Gemini getting into embarrassing
situations.
gaunt gemmary
adj n genotype
/ SgOnt / / SjemErG / n
Scand? > E L / SjEnETtIp /
thin and angular. the science of precious or Gk + Gk
On a high podium in front stood the sometimes semiprecious stones cut the totality of specific transmitters
conductor—a tall, gaunt man with and polished for ornament. of hereditary characters possessed
dark deep-set eyes. Perry has written many articles on by an individual or group.
gemmary for jewelers’ trade Because Richard’s blood type is O,
gauzy magazines. he knows that his genotype is
recessive.
gavage genealogical
n adj gentlest
/ gESvBzh / / TjGnGESlBjDkEl /
F Gk genuine
introduction of material (as of or relating to an enumeration of
nutrients) into the stomach by ancestors and their descendents in genus
means of a stomach tube. the natural order of succession. n
Gavage is a common method of A family tree is a representation of / SjGnEs /
feeding babies who are unable to genealogical relationships. L
swallow enough for good nutrition. a class, kind, or group marked by
generalize one or more common
gavel characteristics.
generator The housefly belongs to the genus
gawkiness n Musca.
/ SjenETrCZE(r) /
gbo L geocentric
a machine by which mechanical adj
gear energy is changed into electrical / TjGPSsentrik /
energy. Gk + Gk + Ecf
geisha The generator at the cabin ran on taking or based on Earth as the
gasoline. center of perspective and
geishas evaluation.
genes The most highly developed
gelid geocentric system was that of
adj genetic Ptolemy of Alexandria.
/ SjelDd /
L genialize geographical
extremely cold : icy. v
When Frank was in Finland, he / SjGnyETlIz / geologist
took a memorable swim in gelid L + Ecf n
water. cause to be marked by sympathetic / jGSBlEjDst /
cheerfulness, warmth, and L
gelignite friendliness. a specialist in the history of Earth
n Kim’s goal as president is to and its life especially as recorded in
/ SjelDgTnIt / genialize club members and thus rocks.
L minimize their cliquish behavior. The geologist conducted a survey
a gelatin dynamite in which the of the rock masses and mineral
adsorbent base is largely potassium genius resources of the area.
nitrate or a similar nitrate usually n
with some wood pulp. / SjGnyEs / geology
Gelignite was used to blast a L
passage through the rocks for a [has near homonym: genus] a
roadway. strongly marked capacity or
aptitude : notable talent.
Page 112 of 289

geometrically germinate geyser
adv v
/ TjGESmetrDk(E)lG / / SjErmETnCt / geyserite
Gk L n
in a manner relating to or according begin to grow : sprout—used / SgIzErIt /
to the principles of geometry. especially of a spore or seed. ON > Icelandic
The art gallery is displaying a The beans were allowed to a hydrous silica that constitutes one
collection of geometrically based germinate in the greenhouse before variety of opal and is deposited
abstractions. being transferred to outdoor soil. around some hot springs and
geysers in white or grayish
geophagy germproof concretions.
n While at Yellowstone National
/ jGSBfEjG / gerontology Park, Kyle took several pictures of
Gk + Gk n the gray mounds of geyserite.
the practice of eating earthy / SjerEnStBlEjG /
substances (as clay) in an attempt Gk gherkin
to supply elements lacking in an a scientific study of the phenomena
unbalanced diet. of aging and of the problems of the ghost
Research in geophagy reveals that aged.
some who practice it are protecting Kathy’s research in gerontology ghostly
themselves against plant toxins and was complemented by weekly visits adj
others are trying to meet an with retirement center residents. / SgPstlG /
increased need for minerals. E
gerrymandered of or relating to a mark or visible
geostrophic sign left by something dead, lost, or
adj gestation no longer present.
/ TjGPSstrBfik / n The fog gave commonplace objects
Gk / jeSstCshEn / a ghostly appearance.
of or relating to deflective force L
due to the rotation of Earth. the carrying of young usually in the giantess
Geostrophic winds in the upper uterus from conception to delivery :
troposphere often reach high pregnancy. gibbet
velocities. The Indian elephant’s period of n
gestation can be as long as 22 / SjibDt /
gerenuk months. F>E
n a frame usually of two upright
/ SgerETnUk / geta posts and a crossbeam from which
Somali n pl is suspended the rope with which
a long-necked antelope native to / Sge(T)tB / criminals are executed by hanging.
eastern Africa. Jpn Only through the queen’s mercy
The film showed a gerenuk Japanese wooden clogs for outdoor was the pirate able to escape the
gracefully rising on its hind legs to wear. gibbet.
reach the leaves it feeds on. Yukio wore his clunky geta to the
public baths. gibbon
geriatrician n
n getaway / SgibEn /
/ TjerGEStrishEn / F
Gk gethsemane any of a genus of tailless apes of
a specialist in a branch of medicine southeastern Asia that are the
that deals with the problems and geusioleptic smallest of the arboreal anthropoid
diseases of old age and aging adj apes.
people. / TgyVzGPSleptik / Its powerful upper limbs enable the
A geriatrician was consulted to find Gk gibbon to swing from tree to tree
out how to treat Grandpa’s having or characterized by pleasant through the forest canopy.
grumpiness and loss of appetite. flavor.
Drug companies have put much gibbosity
germicidal effort into producing geusioleptic
medicines for children.
Page 113 of 289

Gibraltar gigue gitano
n n n
/ jDSbrOltE(r) / / SzhGg / / hGStB(T)nP /
Iberian geog name F Gk geog name > L > Sp
an impregnable stronghold. [Note: Could be confused with a Spanish male gypsy.
Louis viewed his private club as a jig.] a lively dance movement A strolling gitano played folk songs
Gibraltar of civility. having compound triple rhythm and on his violin for the restaurant
consisting of two sections, each of patrons.
gibus which is repeated.
n The gigue is a major part of several giusto
/ SjIbEs / European folk dances.
F name glaciarium
a man’s collapsible top hat—called gilded
also “opera hat.” adj gladdened
In the 19th century, men often wore / SgildDd / v
a gibus to formal occasions. E / SgladFnd /
covered or tinged with gold or a E
giddily golden color. made happy or cheerful.
The gilded icons in the church’s The aging king was gladdened by
giddiness transepts were ruined by vandals the birth of an heir.
n last weekend.
/ SgidGnDs / gland
E gimbal
the quality or state of being n glandular
exuberant, impulsive, or / SgimbEl /
thoughtless. L>F>E glare
The soccer team’s giddiness [has homonym: gimble] a v
resulted from winning the match. contrivance that permits a body to / Sgla(a)(E)r /
incline freely in any direction or E
gigabyte suspends something so that it will shine especially by reflection with
remain level when its support is a harsh uncomfortably brilliant
gigahertz tipped. light.
n A rusty gimbal caused the compass Late afternoon sun tends o glare off
/ SgigEThErts / to remain fixed while the boat the windows across from Joan’s
Gk > ISV + G name listed. apartment.
a unit of frequency equal to 1
billion cycles per second. ginger glary
A radio signal with a frequency of adj adj
1 gigahertz lies in the microwave / SjinjE(r) / / Sgla(a)rG /
range. Skt? > Gk > L > E E
having the reddish brown color of shining with or reflecting a harsh
gigantean the spice ginger. uncomfortably bright light.
Mrs. Collins would die if anyone Jeremy had a difficult time driving
giggle knew that her ginger hair is east in the glary early morning
v actually gray. hours.
/ SgigEl /
imit girder gleam
laugh in an affected or silly v
manner. gisarme / SglGm /
Although she could not see the E
boys, Mrs. Rowe heard them giggle gist shine with subdued emitted or
behind the sofa. reflected light.
Captain Cook watched the moon
gleam on the water in the harbor.
glean
gleanings
Page 114 of 289

gleefully gloom glutton
n
glengarry / SglVm / glyceride
n E
/ glenSgarG / an appearance or atmosphere of glycerinated
Scot geog name melancholy and despondency. v
a woolen cap of Scottish origin The overhanging trees cast a gloom / Sglis(E)rDTnCZDd /
typically having a crease in the over the dilapidated house. Gk + F + Ecf
crown from front to back and edges treated with or preserved in
bound with ribbon that ends in the glossolalia glycerin.
back in two small streamers. n The ointment contained gelatin that
Each bagpiper was wearing a / TglBsPSlClGE / had been glycerinated.
glengarry, a kilt, a sporran, and Gk + Gk
spats. ecstatic speech that is usually glycogenolysis
unintelligible to hearers and is n
glessite uttered in worship services of / TglIkEjESnBlEsDs /
various contemporary religious Gk
glint groups laying great stress on the breakdown of animal starch
v religious excitation and emotional especially to glucose in the animal
/ Sglint / fervor. body.
E Both glossolalia and healing by the Low blood sugar triggers
shine usually by reflection : laying on of hands were glycogenolysis in the liver, which
sparkle. commonplace at the tent revival. produces the needed glucose.
Some rhinestones glint almost as
brightly as diamonds. glossopathy glycolytic
adj
glitch glottalize / TglIkESliZik /
Gk
glittering Gloucester of, relating to, or inducing the
adj n enzymatic breakdown of glucose
/ SgliZEriN / / SglBstE(r) / and other carbohydrates, with the
ON > E E geog name release of energy.
resplendent, brilliant. a hard cheese resembling derby. Athletes often eat foods like pasta
Maxine’s glittering Mardi Gras Garrett topped his ham sandwich to counter glycolytic effects.
mask was the hit of the party. with a slice of Gloucester.
glyph
gloaming glummest
n adj glyptic
/ SglPmiN / / SglEmDst / n
E E / Sgliptik /
twilight, dusk. most dismal, dreary, or gloomy. Gk
Bart heard the robins singing in the At his glummest, Terry could still the art or process of carving or
gloaming. crack a joke. engraving especially on gems.
The amber was enhanced by a
globalization glut beautiful example of glyptic.
n
/ TglPbElDSzCshEn / gluten gnarled
L + Ecff
the act of making something glutinous gnarly
worldwide in scope or application. adj
One of the nation’s goals is the / SglVt(F)nEs / gnash
globalization of democracy. L
having the physical properties of gnat
glue.
When Matthew’s mother told him gnatcatcher
to eat his stewed okra, he dropped
his fork in the glutinous mass and
burst into tears.
Page 115 of 289

gnathic goateed Goldwynism
adj adj n
/ Snathik / / (T)gPStGd / / SgPldwDTnizEm /
Gk E US name
of or relating to the jaw. having a small trim pointed or a phrase or expression (as include
The zoology students compared the tufted beard on the chin. me out) involving a grotesque use
gnathic features of various The portly, goateed restaurant of a word.
animals. owner stopped by each table to ask One well-known Goldwynism is the
how everything was. saying “A verbal contract isn’t
gnathonic worth the paper it’s printed on.”
goatherd
gnawed golgotha
goblet n
gneiss / gBlSgBthE /
n goblins Heb > Aram> Gk > L
/ SnIs / n pl a place of burial : cemetery.
G / SgBblDnz / A chill ran down Henrietta’s spine
[has homonym: nice] a laminated Gk > L > F > E as she walked through the old
or foliated metamorphic rock ugly or grotesque sprites. golgotha.
corresponding in composition to Remembering all the stories of
granite. ghosts and goblins influenced his gomphosis
The geologist easily identified the imagination to run wild.
rock sample as a form of gneiss. goneness
gobo
gnomonics n goner
n pl / SgP(T)bP /
/ nPSmBniks / unknown gonitis
Gk a portable black cloth-covered
the art of using or making dials, screen used to shield a camera from goodies
especially sundials. unwanted light.
Gnomonics had its beginning when Flora adjusted the gobo before the gooey
the ancient Egyptians started using next take.
shadows for measuring time. googolplex
goddess
gnostic n gopher
adj / SgBdDs / n
/ SnBstik / E / SgPfE(r) /
Gk a female god. unknown
of or relating to knowledge or The Hindu goddess Devi was the any of several burrowing rodents.
cognition : intellectual. subject of a recent exhibit at the “The old man was as spry as a
Georgina’s teacher said that her Smithsonian. gopher,” said his grandson.
gnostic abilities were far greater
than her grades indicated. godsend goracco
gnu goggles gorge

n
/ Sn(y)V / goldenfleece gorgio
Bushman
[has homonym: new] any of goldfinch gorgon
several large African antelopes
with a head like that of an ox, short goshenite
mane, long tail, and horns that
curve downward and outward and gossoon
then up.
The brindled gnu, sometimes called gouache
a wildebeest, is one of the fastest
animals in southern Africa.
goad
Page 116 of 289

Gouda graduate Grandisonian
n adj adj
/ SgVdE / / Sgraj(E)wDt / / TgrandESsPnGEn /
Netherlands geog name L E name
a whole-milk mild-flavored cheese of, relating to, or engaged in studies of, relating to, or befitting a model
shaped in flattened spheres and that go beyond the first or gentleman of the 18th century.
usually covered by a red protective bachelor’s degree and are usually In a wig and knee britches,
coating. specialized or professional. Jonathan played the part of the
The Gouda and grapes were a hit Although he is only a junior in Grandisonian earl perfectly.
at Marcy’s party. college, Cecil is taking several
courses on the graduate level. grandomania
gourmand
gradus granitic
government adj
Grail / graSniZik /
governor n L > It + Ecf
/ SgrCl / resembling an igneous crystalline
grabble L>F>E rock formation in austere
v the cup or platter which according inflexibility.
/ SgrabEl / to medieval legend was used by Rowan’s boss has a terrifying
D Christ at the Last Supper, was granitic personality.
move the hand (as in searching) in brought to Britain, and thereafter
a groping fashion. became the object of knightly granivorous
Every morning Tiffany has to quests. adj
grabble for her glasses. The Holy Grail is sometimes / grESniv(E)rEs /
referred to as “the silver chalice.” L
gracefully grainy feeding on seeds or grain.
adv Ursula reinforced the silo to
/ SgrCsfElG / graminivorous protect it from granivorous pests.
L + Ecff
in a manner marked by fitness and grammatical granular
proportion of line or movement.
Fred Astaire danced gracefully up grampus granulation
the wall and across the ceiling. n n
/ SgrampEs / / TgranyESlCshEn /
gracilis L>F>E L
n a cetacean of temperate and the act or process of forming or
/ SgrasElDs / tropical seas having a blunt snout crystallizing into grains or small
L and teeth in the lower jaw only. masses.
the most superficial muscle of the Squid and octopus are the main The granulation of sugar is an
inside of the thigh. foods of the grampus. important development in the
At the bodybuilding contest the history of food.
judges were so critical that they granary
insisted on seeing if every muscle, grapefruit
including the gracilis, was grandee
developed. graphic
grandeeship adj
gracioso / Sgrafik /
grandiloquent Gk
gradeability adj written, drawn, or engraved.
/ granSdilEkwEnt / The graphic symbols of Linear A, a
L Cretan script, have not yet been
marked by a lofty, extravagantly deciphered.
colorful, pompous, or bombastic
style, manner, or quality especially
in language.
The senator dedicated the
monument with an entertainingly
grandiloquent speech.
Page 117 of 289

graphologist graustark gravy
n n
/ graSfBlEjDst / Graustarkian / SgrCvG /
Gk adj F>E
a specialist in the study of / graUSstBrkGEn / any of several thickened sauces
handwriting especially for the fictional name served especially with meat or
purpose of character analysis. of or relating to an imaginary place potatoes.
When Claire signed the form, she of high romance. The so-called “red-eye” gravy
was not told that a graphologist Dr. Furter’s castle was far from the often served with ham and biscuits
would be analyzing her signature. Graustarkian ideal. is usually made with strong coffee
or cola.
graphorrhea grave
adj graywacke
grasp / SgrCv /
v L>F graze
/ Sgrasp / having a serious, sedate, and
E dignified appearance or demeanor. great
comprehend : understand. The judge appeared grave and
Victor was able to grasp the new impassive as she pronounced greave
concept the first time it was sentence on the convicted felon. n
presented. / SgrGv /
gravid E
grasshopper adj [has homonym: grieve] armor for
/ SgravDd / the leg below the knee.
grateful L Memnon removed the soldier’s
pregnant. greave, exposing the wound
graticulation The gravid mare seemed to give a underneath.
sigh of relief as her rider
gratis dismounted. grebe
adv
/ SgraZDs / gravimetry Grecian
L n adj
without charge or recompense. / grESvimEtrG / / SgrGshEn /
Some restaurants no longer provide L + Gk + Ecf Gk > L
water gratis. the measurement of weight or of, relating to, or characteristic of
density. Greeks.
gratitude Arleen’s physics book has a Grecian cuisine famously includes
n chapter devoted to the study of octopus and squid.
/ SgraZETtVd / gravimetry.
L grecize
thankfulness. gravitational v
Tim’s parents make many sacrifices adj / SgrGTsIz /
so that he can train for the / TgravEStCshEnFl / Gk > L > F
Olympics, but he shows them little L make Greek or Hellenistic in
gratitude. of or relating to a force manifested quality, traits, or cultural
by acceleration towards each other characteristics.
grattoir of two free material particles or The locals wouldn’t allow invaders
bodies. to grecize their culture.
gratuitously If the gravitational force of Earth
adv were turned off momentarily, we greedy
/ grEStVEZEslG / would all get a free ride into space.
L greenbrier
without involving a return benefit, gravity
compensation, or consideration. greengage
The travel agency gratuitously gravure
provided the family with greenhouse
transportation to and from the
airport.
Page 118 of 289

greenness griffonage grope
n n v
/ SgrGnnDs / / grifESnBzh / / SgrPp /
E F E
the quality or state of being green. [Note: Could be confused with search about blindly or uncertainly.
The clear little stream ran quite griffinage.] careless handwriting : a The daydreaming student had to
merrily along on its narrow way crude or illegible scrawl. grope for an answer when the
through the luscious damp The pharmacist assured us that teacher asked him a question.
greenness. what looked like griffonage was
simply a string of Latin gross
gremlin abbreviations. n
/ SgrPs /
grenade grimy L>F>E
[has near homonym: grows] an
grenadierial grip aggregate of 12 dozen things;
n specifically : a lot made up of 12
grenadine / Sgrip / dozen usually relatively small and
E substantially identical commercial
griddle [Note: The definition provided is objects.
n not the one most commonly Mrs. Lin ordered a gross of gel
/ SgridFl / associated with this word. In pens to use for special rewards.
L>F>E addition, word has homonym:
a flat surface on which food is grippe.] a worker who moves the grotesqueness
placed to be cooked by dry heat. scenes in a theater. n
Dad makes buttermilk pancakes on Til worked as a grip at the Country / grPStesknDs /
the griddle every Sunday morning. Dinner Playhouse. F&It
the quality or state of being
gridiron grippe comically incongruous or
n ridiculously ugly.
/ SgriTdI(E)rn / grisard Each horror movie seems to be
(L > F > E) + E trying to outdo the others in
[Note: Although the definition griseofulvin grotesqueness.
provided is the original sense, it is
not the one most commonly grissino grotto
associated with this word.] a grated n
metal frame for grilling food over / grDSsG(T)nP / grottoed
coals. It adj
Sara’s hot dog rolled off the a long slender crusty breadstick / SgrBZPd /
gridiron and fell on the ground. usually of Italian style or origin. L > It
For a mid-afternoon snack, a enclosed in or made into a natural
grievances grissino was all that Amelia covered opening in the earth.
n pl needed. The gangsters fled to their grottoed
/ SgrGvEn(t)sDz / hideaway.
F>E grivoiserie
causes of uneasiness or distress felt grouchiness
to afford rightful reason for grobianism
reproach, complaint, or resistance. groundless
During his new-employee grok
orientation, Stan was briefed on the v groundsel
procedure for filing grievances. / SgrBk / n
US literary name / SgraUn(d)sEl /
understand profoundly and E
intuitively : establish deep an herb of the genus Senecio
compassionate rapport with. sometimes used for medicinal
Robert Heinlein’s most popular purposes.
books are about a character who Groundsel is found in swamps and
could grok his friends in a meadows from Newfoundland to
profound way. Ontario.
Page 119 of 289

grouper gudgeon gulag
n n
grouse / SgEjEn / / SgVTlBg /
L>F>E Russ acronym
grout an iron pin for fastening together the penal system of the former
n blocks of stone. Soviet Union consisting of a
/ SgraUt / The stoneworker selected a heavy network of labor camps.
E gauge of iron for the gudgeon that Stalin chose a 15th-century
thin mortar fluid enough to be would hold together the parts of the monastery as the site for the first
poured and used for filling in granite park bench. labor camp of the gulag.
spaces as in the joints of masonry
or brickwork. guenon gules
Randy carefully spread new grout n n
and set the tiles into the counter / gESnPM / / SgyVlz /
top. F F>E
any of various long-tailed chiefly the heraldic color red.
growthy arboreal African monkeys. One is never allowed to change a
The guenon is a favorite zoo coat of arms, since even the use of
grubstake monkey because of its bright gules has a certain meaning.
markings, good nature, and its
grudgingness habit of grimacing at observers. gulp
n n
/ SgrEjiNnDs / guest / SgElp /
Gmc > F > E D or G > E
the quality or state of being guichet the amount taken in a single large
unwilling, reluctant, or ungenerous. swallow.
With some grudgingness, Ron came guidance Soot took the entire half of a
to accept Sam as his daughter’s buttered crumpet and decided to
fiance. guilelessness swallow it all joyfully in one gulp.
n
gruine / SgI(E)llDsnDs / gumdrop
Gmc > F > E + Ecff
gryllus the quality or state of being gunpowder
innocent, naïve, and
gryposis unsophisticated. gunrunning
n Mrs. Waldron said that she loved
/ grDSpPsDs / teaching young children because of guppy
Gk their natural guilelessness.
abnormal curvature especially of gurgitation
the fingernail. guiltsick
When one of Sarah’s fingernails gurry
exhibited gryposis, her doctor guilty n
removed it surgically. / SgErG /
guinea unknown
guarantee [has homonym: ghurry] the refuse
Guinean from cutting up a whale and
guaranteed adj extracting the oil.
v / SginGEn / The captain ordered the younger
/ TgarEnStGd / African geog name crewmen to clear the deck of gurry.
Gmc > F of, relating to, or characteristic of
given or furnished security to. the region of Guinea, West Africa.
Results are not guaranteed, but if Guinea pigs are paradoxically not
not perfectly satisfied, your wasted Guinean animals: They originate
time will be refunded. in South America.
guise
guitarist
Page 120 of 289

gusset gyromancy hailstones
n n n pl
/ SgEsDt / / SjIrETman(t)sG / / ShClTstPnz /
F>E Gk + Gk E+E
a usually triangular or diamond- divination in which one walking in balls or lumps of ice falling from a
shaped insert (as of cloth or leather) or around a circle falls from cloud.
placed in a seam to give ease or dizziness and prognosticates from The hailstones damaged the finish
expansibility. the place of the fall. of many cars in the neighborhood.
Eileen sewed a gusset into the In one form of gyromancy, a circle
waistband of her hiking pants. is marked with the alphabet so that haircut
words may be formed as the diviner
guttate falls on the letters. hairdo
adj
/ SgEZTCt / habit hairiest
L n adj
resembling a drop or having spots / ShabDt / / Sha(a)rGDst /
that resemble drops. L>F>E E
Symptoms of Janet’s illness a behavior pattern acquired by the most covered with or as if with
included a high fever and guttate frequent repetition. hair.
skin lesions. It is a Yorkshire habit to say what “That’s the hairiest baby I’ve ever
you think with blunt frankness, and seen!” exlaimed Mr. Feeney.
guyot old Ben Weatherstaff was a
Yorkshire moor man. halfback
gyascutus
habitable hallucinations
gymnast
habituated hallucinatory
gymnure adj
n / hESbichETwCZDd / hallux
/ SjimTn(y)U(E)r / L n
Gk made familiar through use or / ShalEks /
a small whitish insectivorous experience : accustomed. L
mammal of southeastern Asia Although now habituated to a the innermost digit (as the big toe)
having a long snout and a long comfortable life, Edna never forgot of the hind limb : big toe.
naked tail. the pain of her poverty-stricken The football player became
The gymnure, also called the childhood. afflicted with an arthritic hallux
moonrat, is usually black with that affected his mobility.
whitish head, but some individuals habitue
are all white. halogen
haddock n
gynecocentric / ShalEjDn /
adj hafnium Gk
/ TgInDkPSsentrik / any of the five elements fluorine,
Gk haggardly chlorine, bromine, iodine, and
dominated by or emphasizing astatine forming group VII A of the
feminine interests or point of view. hagiographer periodic table.
Lucy enjoyed the movie mostly for n A halogen normally appears in the
its gynecocentric plot. / ThagGSBgrEfE(r) / free state as a diatomic molecule.
Gk
gynecocracy one who writes about the life of a halter
saint.
gynecology Most biographies of the saints are
anonymous, but some are
gyration attributed to a particular
hagiographer.
gyrocompass
hagiolith
Page 121 of 289

hambo hangdog hariolation
n adj
/ ShBm(T)bV / / ShaNTdOg / harmfully
Sw geog name E+E
a Swedish round danced to various dejected, cowed, pitiful. harmless
melodies in triple time. When asked why he had such a adj
Joel learned to dance the hambo hangdog look, the little boy replied / ShBrmlDs /
when he visited relatives in that he couldn’t find his puppy. E
Sweden. lacking capacity or intent to injure.
hangul The snake was a harmless little
hammer n thing that would not hurt anyone
/ ShBNgEl / and seemed in a hurry to get out of
hamotzi Kashmiri the room.
a deer of Kashmir closely related to
hamper the red deer of Europe. harmony
The deer hunter pointed out his
hamster most recent trophy — the mounted harpy
head of a hangul. n
handbill / ShBrpG /
haori Gk > L
handicap a predatory monster in chiefly
n hapchance classical mythology represented as
/ ShandGTkap / having a woman’s head and body
E haphazardry and claws of a vulture and as being
an advantage given a weaker an instrument of divine vengeance.
contestant or a disadvantage happenstance Mrs. Byrd did not realize that the
imposed upon a stronger contestant n harpy Jill drew to illustrate Roman
in order to equalize chances of / ShapEnz(T)tan(t)s / mythology had personal
winning. E+L significance.
Mr. Shore’s golf handicap has a circumstance regarded as being
remained unchanged after six years due to chance. harras
of play. By happenstance, Gloria found
herself in the position of being a harried
handicapper witness to a robbery. v
/ SharGd /
handiwork haptic E
adj kept under constant attack or threat
handkerchief / ShapTtik / of attack : harassed.
n Gk A mosquito harried Charlie as he
/ ShaNkE(r)chEf / relating to or based on the sense of tried to sleep.
E+F>E touch.
a piece of cloth that is used for The human body’s haptic sensor is harrow
various personal purposes or as a the skin.
costume accessory. harrowing
Mr. Van Deventer bought a harassment adj
matching tie and handkerchief off n / Sha(T)rPiN /
the bargain rack. / hESrasmEnt / E
F acutely distressing or painful :
handsome the act or an instance of vexing, agonizing.
troubling, or annoying continually Laura worried that a trip to the
hangar or chronically. South Dakota badlands would be a
The employee sued the company for trip through miles of harrowing
harassment that occurred over a and hazardous countryside.
period of two years.
harvester
hardihood
hardscrabble
Page 122 of 289

hastate hawker hebephrenia
adj n n
/ ShaTstCt / / ShOkE(r) / / ThGbESfrGnGE /
L G&E Gk
shaped like a spear or the head of a one that sells wares especially in a form of schizophrenia that is
spear. the streets : peddler. characterized by silliness,
Michael has a letter opener with a Sabrina tried to ignore the hawker delusions, hallucinations, and
hastate blade that looks like a as he extolled the virtues of beef regression and that has an early
Neolithic weapon. jerky. insidious onset.
The prognosis for hebephrenia,
hastener hawse which presents itself initially
during youth, is unfavorable.
hastilude hawser
n hebetudinous
hastily / ShOzE(r) /
adv L>F>E hecatomb
/ ShCstDlG / [Note: Could be confused with n
F>E Hausa, houser.] a large rope for / ShekETtPm /
hurriedly. towing or mooring a ship or Gk
The hastily executed maneuver securing it at a dock. a large number or quantity.
saved the ship from the rocks. Jody passed the hawser around the The hecatomb of soldiers slain in
mooring post and disembarked the War Between the States makes
hatched from the boat. this war the deadliest conflict in
our country’s history.
haul hawthorn
heckle
haunches hayloft
n pl n hector
/ ShOnchEs / / ShCTlOft / v
Gmc > F > E E + ON > E / ShektE(r) /
hips : hindquarters. a loft or scaffold for hay. Gk name
The guard dog sat on his haunches Uncle Albert forbade the children harass, intimidate, bully, or
and growled a warning to all who from playing in the hayloft. domineer by bluster, scolding, or
came near. personal pressure.
hazard Some seniors like to hector
hausfrau underclassmen on the first day of
haziness school.
Havarti
n hazing hedebo
/ hESvBrtG /
Danish geog name headpiece hedge
a semisoft Danish cheese with a
mild to sharp flavor. headset hedgehopper
Rivka served raw vegetables and
mild Havarti with crackers to her hearse hedgerow
party guests. n
heartburn / ShejTrP /
Hawaiian E
adj heartthrob a row of shrubs or trees enclosing
/ hESwByEn / or separating fields.
Hawaiian heathenness The property belonging to the
of or relating to the island, state, or estate extended from the hedgerow
Territory of Hawaii, the Hawaiian heaven at the left of the house to the stone
islands, or the inhabitants of pillar one mile down the road.
Hawaii. heavyweight
Maureen won a Hawaiian vacation hedonic
on a game show. hebdomadal
heedful
hawk
Page 123 of 289

heedless heliophyte hemera
n n
hefty / ShGlGETfIt / / ShemErE /
adj Gk + Gk Gk
/ SheftG / a plant thriving in or tolerating full a stratigraphic zone comprising the
E sunlight. time range of a particular fossil
impressively large. The cactus is a good example of a species.
Little Jolene sat on several hefty heliophyte. Work on the excavation stopped
books in order to reach the when the workers accidentally
desktop. heliosis unearthed a wide, rich hemera.
n
heiferette / ThGlGSPsDs / hemic
Gk adj
heighten sunstroke. / ShGmik /
Ben stayed indoors for a week Gk
heist following his bout with heliosis on of or relating to blood.
the rafting trip. Hemic problems caused Ron's
heliacal breathing difficulty.
adj heliport
/ hDSlIEkEl / hemiplegia
Gk helix
relating to or near the Sun—used n hemiplegic
especially of the last setting of a / ShGliks / adj
star before and its first rising after Gk > L / ThemDSplGjik /
invisibility due to conjunction with something spiral in form. Gk
the Sun. Each tendril of a grape vine forms marked by paralysis of one lateral
The Egyptian rural year was a helix. half of the body or part of it
determined by the heliacal rising of resulting from injury to the motor
Sirius. hellebore centers of the brain.
Marc’s automobile accident left
helical helmet him in a hemiplegic condition.
n
heliciform / ShelmDt / hemlock
adj Gmc > F
/ hDSlisDTfOrm / any of various protective head hemochromatosis
Gk + Ecf coverings usually made of a hard n
spiral. material to resist impact. / ThGmPTkrPmEStPsDs /
Emmett picked up several small The steel helmet protected the Gk
heliciform shells while playing on soldier from shrapnel. a disease characterized by
the beach. widespread deposition of iron-
helminthoid containing pigments in the tissues
helicline adj resulting in bronzing of the skin,
/ helSminTthOid / associated with cirrhosis of the
heliocentric Gk liver and pancreas.
adj resembling a parasitic worm (as a “Bronze diabetes” is the common
/ ShGlGPTsentrik / roundworm, tapeworm, or leech). name for hemochromatosis.
Gk The calves’ emaciation and stunted
having or relating to the Sun as the growth were found to be a result of hemodialysis
center. infestation by helminthoid n
Copernicus proposed in the 16th organisms. / ThGmPdISalEsDs /
century a heliocentric theory of Gk + Gk + Gk
planetary arrangement. helpful the process of removing blood from
an artery (as of a kidney patient),
purifying it, adding vital
substances, and returning it to a
vein.
Mr. Barnes is glad that his
hemodialysis can be done at home
instead of at the hospital.
Page 124 of 289

hemolymph herald heritably
n
/ ShGmETlim(p)f / heraldry hermetic
Gk > L > E n
the circulatory fluid of various / SherEldrG / hero
invertebrate animals that is Gmc > F > E
functionally comparable to the a branch of knowledge that deals heroism
blood and lymph of vertebrates. with the history and practice of
The hemolymph of insects is bearing and displaying armorial heron
usually green, yellow, or colorless. ensigns and with the art of
describing them. herpetofauna
hemophilic When she began studying heraldry,
Jenny realized that she would have hesitate
hemostat to learn a dictionary full of
n specialized terms. hessian
/ ShGmETstat /
Gk herb hesychast
an instrument for compressing a n
bleeding vessel. herbal / ShesDkast /
A hemostat is an indispensable tool Gk
in surgery. herbicide one of a set of Eastern Orthodox
monastics practicing a solitary
hennery herbivore meditative form of prayer.
n A monk who is a hesychast seeks
/ ShenETrG / herbivorous inner stillness through prayer.
E + Ecf adj
[has near homonym: henry] an / T(h)ErSbivErEs / heterodyned
enclosure or house for poultry. L v
Bill painted the small hennery and feeding on plants. / SheZErETdInd /
put fresh straw inside it for the Most insects are herbivorous and Gk
chickens. feed on virtually every part of a combined (a radio frequency) with
plant, from the flower to the root. a different frequency so that a beat
heortology is produced.
n herbs The incoming radio signals had to
/ ThGTO(r)StBlEjG / n pl be heterodyned down to 150
Gk + Gk / S(h)Erbz / kilohertz for recording with a tape
a study of religious calendars; L>F>E recorder.
especially : a study of the history plants or plant parts valued for their
and the meaning of the seasons and medicinal, savory, or aromatic heterogeneity
festivals of the church year. qualities. n
Barbara’s thesis on medieval Karl guarded carefully the secret of / TheZErEjDSnGEZG /
Italian heortology was published which herbs he put in his barbecue Gk + Lcf
last year to modest critical acclaim. sauce. the quality or state of differing in
kind.
hepatectomy hereafter Sherman was amazed at the
heterogeneity of the fraternity
hepatomegaly hereinbelow members.
n
/ ThepEZPSmegElG / heresimach heteronomy
Gk + Gk n
enlargement of the liver. / hESrGzETmak /
An accumulation of glycogen in the Gk
liver can result in hepatomegaly. an active opponent of heresy and
heretics.
heptachord During the Inquisition,
Torquemada was Spain’s most
heptagonal zealous heresimach.
heptastich heretofore
Page 125 of 289

heteronym hexafoos Hippocratic
n adj
/ SheZErETnim / hexagonal / ThipESkraZik /
Gk adj Gk name
one of two or more words spelled / hekSsagEnFl / of or relating to Hippocrates or to
alike that differ in pronunciation Gk + Ecf the school of medicine that took his
and meaning. having six angles and six sides : name.
Each of the words spelled b-a-s-s in six-sided. Dr. Owens takes the Hippocratic
the following sentence is a A cell of a honeycomb is one of oath literally.
heteronym: The fisherman in his many hexagonal forms in nature.
bass voice cried out that he had hippocrepiform
caught a bass. hexameter
n hirsuteness
heterotrichosis / hekSsamEZE(r) /
n Gk hirsutism
/ TheZErPtrESkPsDs / a line of six metrical feet. n
Gk Gil read the difficult hexameter / ShErTsVtTizEm /
a condition of having hair of without pause or problem, to the L
variegated color. astonishment of Professor excessive growth of hair of normal
When Granny saw rainbow-colored Winterbottom. or abnormal distribution.
hair for the first time, she Hirsutism is often the result of a
wondered if she were seeing a hexerei hormonal imbalance in the body.
freakish case of heterotrichosis.
hideaway histogenesis
heterozygote
n hideosity histogeny
/ TheZErPSzIgPt / n
Gk hidrosis / hiSstBjEnG /
an animal or plant that contains Gk
genes for both members of at least highbinding the formation and differentiation of
one pair of alternative Mendelian tissues.
characters such as whether or not highlight The 19th-century physiologist
one can roll one’s tongue. Theodor Schwann was renowned
Certain genetic disorders are highroad for his pioneering study of
asymptomatic in the heterozygote. n histogeny.
/ ShITrPd /
hew E+E historian
v the best approach : an easy way.
/ ShyV / The highroad to the lodge was very historicize
E scenic.
[has homonym: hue] shape, form, Hitchcockian
create, or bring into being with or hilarity adj
as if with hard rough blows or / hichSkBkGEn /
efforts. hinder American name
Dr. King told his listeners that with of, relating to, or suggestive of the
faith they would be able to “hew hindquarter cinematic style or technique of
out of the mountain of despair a Alfred Hitchcock.
stone of hope.” hindrance One Hitchcockian mark was to put
hewgag himself in the background of a
hindsight scene in the film, usually when the
hewn audience would least expect to see
adj hintingly the director.
/ ShyVn /
E hither
felled, cut, or shaped by hewing (as
with an ax).
From the hewn stump in the front
yard new shoots began to sprout.
Page 126 of 289

hitherto hokum hombre
adv n
/ ShiLE(r)TtV / holcodont / SBm(T)brC /
E L > Sp
up to this time. holdall [has homonym: ombre] man,
Frieda discovered an opening to a fellow, guy.
hitherto unknown cave. holiday Tex was too fast to let that hombre
get the drop on him.
Hitlerian holistic
adj homebound
/ hitSlirGEn / Hollerith
G name n homeopathy
of, relating to, or suggestive of / ShBlETrith /
dictator Adolf Hitler or his regime name Homeric
in Germany. a code for representing adj
The regime’s Hitlerian disregard of alphanumeric information on punch / hPSmerik /
human life and human rights cards. Gk name
repulsed and disgusted the Billy started programming back of or relating to the Greek poet
commission. when mainframe computers still Homer, his age, or his writings.
had special readers for Hollerith. The Homeric portrayal of death is
hittable pessimistic and offers no
adj hollygrape unambiguously attractive hope of a
/ ShiZEbEl / reward for a good life.
ON > E + L holography
capable of being struck. homestretch
The batter cursed himself for holometabolous
missing a perfectly hittable ball. adj homiletic
/ hBlPTmDStabElEs /
hobbyist Gk > L + Ecf hominivorous
of an insect : characterized by
hobgoblin development with complete hominoid
metamorphosis. n
hobnail Most beetles, butterflies, and moths / ShBmETnOid /
are holometabolous insects. L + Ecf
hobnob resembling the family of mammals
holophrasis to which humans and their
hodad ancestors belong.
holophrastic Chewbacca has markedly hominoid
hoedown adj features.
n / ThBlESfrastik /
/ ShPTdaUn / Gk + Gk homogeneous
E+E expressing a complex of ideas in a adj
a lively old-time dance. single word. / ShPmETjGnGEs /
Pamela enjoyed the hoedown Holophrastic utterances are one of Gk
tremendously. the first stages in children’s relating to, occurring in, or being a
acquisition of speech. system that contains no internal
hoggish physical boundaries.
holozoic Roger’s lecture was about the
hogshead homogeneous catalytic role that
n holster chlorine plays in the depletion of
/ ShOgzThed / the ozone layer.
E+E homage
a U.S. unit of capacity equal to 63 n homonymous
gallons. / S(h)Bmij /
We grew enough apples in our L>F>E
backyard this year to yield 1 reverential regard : respect,
hogshead of cider. deference.
The Lord Chancellor demanded
hogwash homage wherever he went.
Page 127 of 289

homophone hoodlum horrifically
n n adv
/ ShBmETfPn / / ShVdlEm / / hOSrifDk(E)lG /
Gk unknown L
one of two or more words a criminal usually belonging to a in a manner inspiring horror or
pronounced alike but different in gang : thug. fear.
meaning or derivation or spelling. The young hoodlum was arrested The real consequences of a nuclear
When Andrew’s mom was in for vandalism. war could be horrifically worse
school, a homophone was called a than previously imagined.
“homonym.” hooey
horrified
homuncular hoofer
adj horrify
/ ThPSmENkyElEr / hooroosh
L horsehair
resembling or characteristic of a hooves
little man, specifically one horst
artificially produced by an hopper
alchemist. horticultural
The three-dimensional gingerbread hopperdozer
man that Jana baked had a hostile
homuncular quality. horizontalize adj
/ ShBstFl /
honcho hornpipe L
n [has homonym: hostel] offering an
hone / ShO(E)rnTpIp / unpleasant or forbidding
E environment.
honestly a lively folk dance of the British The snow and ice-covered
Isles. mountains presented a hostile
honestone A musical instrument called “the picture of the next segment of the
hornpipe” gave its name to a journey.
honeycomb popular sailors’ dance.
n hostilely
/ ShEnGTkPm / horologist
E n hovel
a mass of hexagonal prismatic wax / hESrBlEjDst /
cells built by bees as a nest and L howbeit
store of food. a maker of clocks or watches.
A swarm of bees covered the large After working as a watch howled
honeycomb. repairman for seven years, Matt v
decided to become a full-fledged / ShaUld /
honeypot horologist. E
uttered or emitted a loud sustained
honeysuckle horoscope doleful sound or outcry
characteristic of dogs and wolves.
honor horoscopic The wind howled cruelly in an
effort to tear them loose.
honorarium horrible
n adj hox
/ TBnESrerGEm / / ShOrEbEl /
L L hoydenish
an honorary payment or reward likely to arouse fear, dread, or adj
usually given as compensation for abhorrence. / ShOidFnish /
services. A horrible sound came from inside D? + Ecf
Dr. Ferraro donated the the fall festival’s haunted house. lively, tomboyish, unladylike.
honorarium she received for her Mrs. Taylor remarked that even a
speech at the Rotary Club to a horrid die-hard feminist would consider
local animal shelter. Zoe’s behavior hoydenish.
Page 128 of 289

hubristic humanitarian humstrum
adj n
/ hyVSbristik / / (T)hyVTmanESterGEn / humus
Gk L + Ecf n
insolent, vain, arrogant. a person who is actively concerned / S(h)yVmEs /
Without question, Rick was the in promoting human welfare and L
most hubristic intern Dr. Hallberg especially social reform. [Note: Could be confused with
had ever encountered. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will adjective humous. Also, has near
always be remembered as a great homonym: hummus.] the organic
huckaback humanitarian. portion of soil.
Mario’s compost heap provides an
huckster humbly annual supply of humus for his
adv garden.
hue / ShEmblG /
n E hunching
/ ShyV / in a modest or meek manner. v
E Anita humbly protested that her / ShEnchiN /
gradation of color. work did not deserve to hang on the unknown
An inspired painter reveals mood museum’s walls. assuming a bent or crooked
through the use of hue and shade. posture.
humdinger After hours of hunching in the car,
hueless Huey was glad for an opportunity
humid to stretch at the rest stop.
hula
v humidity hundred
/ ShVlE / n
Hawaiian / hyVSmidEZG / hundredweight
perform a sinuous mimetic L n
Polynesian dance of traditional a moderate degree of wetness / ShEndrDdTwCt /
form and topical adaptation, especially of the atmosphere. E+E
usually accompanied by chants and In addition to the heat and a unit of weight equal to 100
rhythmic drumming. humidity, the hikers had to deal pounds—called also “short
Leilani was invited to hula for the with pesky mosquitoes. hundredweight.”
guests at the luau. Ronnie may be teased for only
humiliate being a hundredweight, but he is
hulking respected for his quickness.
adj humility
/ ShElkiN / n Hungarian
Gk > L > E + Ecf / hyVSmilEZG / n
of great size or powerful build. L / ThENSga(a)rGEn /
One look at the hulking guard the quality or state of being humble European geog name
would cause anyone to think twice in spirit : freedom from pride or a native or inhabitant of Hungary, a
about making him angry. arrogance. country in central Europe.
We all need humility in the face of Many a Hungarian has settled
humaniora what we do not understand. happily in the United States.
n pl
/ (h)yVTmanGSPrE / humiture hungry
L n
the branches of learning regarded / ShyVmETchU(E)r / hurdle
as having primarily a cultural L&L n
character and usually including an integer average of temperature / ShErdFl /
languages, literature, history, and humidity. E
mathematics, and philosophy. When the temperature is 85 an artificial barrier over which
Mateo received his degree in degrees Fahrenheit and the relative horses leap in a race.
general studies or, as he likes to humidity is 90, the humiture is 88. Gordon’s mount cleared the last
call it, “humaniora.” hurdle with ease and won the race.
hummingbird
hummocky
Page 129 of 289

hure hydra hydrophobia
n n n
/ ShyU(E)r / / ShIdrE / / ThIdrESfPbGE /
F>E Gk > L Gk
[has homonym: hewer] a close- a many-sided problem or obstacle an acute viral disease of the
fitting cap. that presents new difficulties each nervous system of warm-blooded
The 15th-century painting depicted time one aspect of it is solved or animals that is fatal when untreated
a peasant wearing a gray hure. overcome. and is transmitted with infected
The problem was a hydra of saliva usually through the bite of an
hurling immense proportion. animal : rabies.
v In recent years many raccoons
/ ShErliN / hydroacoustic have succumbed to hydrophobia.
imit? E adj
impelling with great vigor. / ThI(T)drPESkVstik / hydroponics
For lack of something better to do, Gk n pl
Simon spent the afternoon hurling of or relating to the transmission of / ThIdrESpBniks /
stones into the creek. sound in water. Gk
Whales use a form of hydroacoustic the growing of plants in nutrient
hurriedly communication. solutions with or without sand,
adv gravel, or other inert medium to
/ ShErDdlG / hydrocortisone provide mechanical support.
E? + Ecff n Hydroponics is invaluable in
quickly, hastily. / ThI(T)drPSkO(r)ZETsPn / regions having poor or no soil.
Jennifer dressed hurriedly in the Gk + L
cold room. a crystalline hormone that is used hydroxyzine
in the treatment of certain allergic
husbandry diseases. hyetometer
n At one time available only in n
/ ShEzbEndrG / compounds prescribed by doctors, / ThIEStBmEZE(r) /
ON > E hydrocortisone is now found in Gk
the cultivation or production of many over-the-counter rain gage.
plants and animals : agriculture, medications. Ambrose set up a hyetometer in the
farming. front yard as part of his science
The barn was well stocked with hydrological fair project.
tools of husbandry. adj
/ ThIdrESlBjDkEl / hygeian
husky Gk adj
of or relating to the study of water / hISjGEn /
hustings on the surface of the land, in the Gk name
n pl soil and underlying rocks, and in [Note: Could be confused with
/ ShEstiNz / the atmosphere. hygiene.] of or relating to health or
ON > E The hydrological cycle includes the medical practice.
an election platform : stump. evaporation of oceanic water into Janice does not know which
After the political conventions, the the atmosphere and its eventual hygeian career she will pursue, but
election heated up as each party’s return as precipitation. she is currently very interested in
nominee took to the hustings with nutrition.
renewed zeal. hydropathy
hustle
v
/ ShEsEl /
D
move or act with vigorous speed.
“You’d better hustle if you want to
make your train!” Betty shouted.
Page 130 of 289

hygienic hyperkalemia hypotactic
adj adj
/ ThIjGSenik / hyperopia / ThIpEStaktik /
Gk n Gk
of, relating to, or conducive to / ThIpESrPpGE / of, relating to, or exhibiting
health or the science which deals Gk syntactic subordination (as by
with the establishment and a condition in which visual images conjunction).
maintenance of health in the come to a focus behind the retina Yun loved the complicated
individual and the group. and vision is better for distant than hypotactic prose of academic
The minister reported that better for near objects : farsightedness. German.
hygienic conditions had reduced Mom attributed her difficulty in
infant mortality significantly over reading fine print to hyperopia. Hypotheria
the past ten years. n pl
hypertonic / ThIpPSthirGE /
hygienically Gk
hyphenic a hypothetical order including the
hygrometer as yet undiscovered ancestors of
n hypnosis the mammals.
/ hISgrBmEZE(r) / Speculation about the ancestors of
Gk hypocaust the mammals will remain just that
any of several instruments for n until a member of the order
measuring the humidity of the / ShIpPTkOst / Hypotheria is discovered.
atmosphere. Gk
Eileen wondered what would a central heating system of an hypothermia
happen if she took the hygrometer ancient Roman building consisting
into the shower with her. of an underground furnace or fire hypothesize
chamber and a series of tile flues v
hygroscope for distribution of the heat. / hISpBthETsIz /
Jessamyn pointed out the remains Gk
hyoid of the hypocaust that had heated make an assumption in order to
n the public baths. draw out its logical or empirical
/ ShITOid / consequences.
Gk hypochlorite We can hypothesize that every
a bone or complex of bones n statement is true, but then we will
situated at the base of the tongue, / ThI(T)pPSklPrTIt / have to accept contradictions as
supporting the tongue and its Gk truth.
muscles. a salt or ester of a weak acid used
X rays showed damage to the chiefly as an oxidizing agent, hypoxemia
patient’s larynx and hyoid. bleaching agent, disinfectant, and
chlorinating agent. hypozeuxis
hypallage Sodium hypochlorite is the primary
n ingredient in commercial laundry hypsometer
/ hISpalE(T)jG / bleaches. n
Gk / hipSsBmEZE(r) /
the interchange in syntactic hypocrite Gk + Gk
relationship between two terms. any of various instruments used to
The sentence “you are become hypopharynx determine the height of trees by
dead to the law” is hypallage for n triangulation.
“the law has become dead to you.” / ThI(T)pPSfariN(k)s / Being a forester, Steve was an
hyperborean Gk expert at using a hypsometer.
adj a thickened fold on the floor of the
/ ThIpE(r)SbPrGEn / mouth of many insects that
Gk resembles a tongue.
of, relating to, or inhabiting an In a chewing insect the
extreme northern region : frigid. hypopharynx secretes digestive
Polar bears are among the few juices.
animals that can survive in
hyperborean regions.
Page 131 of 289

hyrax ichorous idealist
n adj
/ ShITraks / / SIkErEs / idealize
Gk > L Gk v
any of a family of small thickset [has near homonym: Icarus] thin, / ISdG(E)TlIz /
mammals with short legs and ears, watery. Gk
feet with soft pads and broad nails, In severe psoriasis the skin make into a perfect example.
and a rudimentary tail. becomes hard and then cracks, and Greer tends to idealize her friends.
The hyrax feeds on a wide variety from the cracks there is an
of plants and can digest fiber very ichorous discharge. ideate
efficiently. v
ichthyic / SIdGTCt /
hysterics Gk + Ecf
ichthyism remember, imagine, or think of
hysterogenic when not in the presence of.
ichthyologist Painters often rely on their ability
ibex to ideate a landscape or a face.
n ichthyosaur
/ SITbeks / n ideological
L / SikthGPTsO(E)r /
one of several wild goats living Gk + Gk idiasm
chiefly in high mountain areas and any of an order of extinct fishlike n
having large recurved horns. reptiles of the Mesozoic era having / SidGTazEm /
While on a ski trip in the Swiss a long snout and a large caudal fin. Gk
Alps, Pierre spotted an ibex. Its streamlined body and paddle- an individual mannerism (as in
like limbs enabled the ichthyosaur literary style).
ibidem to move swiftly through the water. James Joyce’s main idiasm was his
penchant for writing in stream of
ibuprofen ickiness consciousness.
n
/ TIbyUSprPfDn / iconoclasm idiom
ISV
a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory iconoduly idiomatic
drug used to relieve pain and fever.
Because aspirin upsets her iconographer idiomatically
stomach, Angela takes ibuprofen to n adv
relieve minor pains. / TIkESnBgrEfE(r) / / TidGESmaZDk(E)lG /
G Gk
iceberg a maker or designer of figures or in a manner conforming to the
drawings especially of a language peculiar to a people or to
icebound conventional or mechanical type. a district, community, or class.
adj The congregation was quite The immigrant student quickly
/ SIsTbaUnd / pleased with the inspirational scene learned to speak English
E+E depicted by the iconographer. idiomatically.
surrounded with ice so as to be
incapable of advancing. icotype idiopathic
The harbor was icebound during adj
much of the winter. icteric / TidGESpathik /
adj Gk
ichor / SikTterik / arising spontaneously or from an
Gk > L obscure or unknown cause.
of, relating to, or affected with After carefully examining Leila, the
jaundice. doctor announced that her sudden
Hepatitis A is one common disease hearing loss was idiopathic and
that has an icteric stage lasting might disappear with time.
from days to weeks.
idiophone
ictus
idiosyncrasies
Page 132 of 289

idiosyncrasy illimitable imagine
adj v
idle / i(l)SlimDZEbEl / / DSmajDn /
adj L L>F>E
/ SIdFl / not capable of being restricted or form an idea of.
E bounded. Louis became dizzy when he tried
[has homonyms: idol, idyl, idyll] The capacity of human beings to to imagine himself sky-diving or
given to rest or ease. absorb what they wish to absorb hang-gliding.
Not one to be idle, Ben assists and to ignore the rest seems to be
others whenever he completes his illimitable. imago
assigned tasks. n
illiteracy / DSmC(T)gP /
idol n L
/ i(l)SliZErEsG / an insect in its final adult mature
idolization L usually winged state.
n inability to read or write. A butterfly has a caterpillar stage
/ TIdFlDSzCshEn / The administration promised to and a chrysalis stage before it
Gk > L > F > E launch a campaign against emerges as an imago, or butterfly.
the act of loving or revering to illiteracy.
excess, or the state of being revered imbibition
to excess. illogical
The public’s idolization of imbroglio
celebrities inevitably causes them illogicality
to change the nature of their public n imitate
contacts. / (T)i(l)TlBjESkalEZG /
Gk + Ecff immanent
idunit the quality or state of reasoning adj
n unsoundly through ignorance or / SimEnEnt /
/ ISdEnDt / negligence of logic. L
E The English teacher pointed out the remaining or operating within the
an autobiographical or confessional illogicality in saying “My cup is subject considered : indwelling.
account usually of a sensational fuller than yours.” Stefan told a story about a forest
character. illuminable god immanent in the large redwood
Everyone expected the colorful near our camping spot.
Wall Street broker to write an illuminometer
idunit after his conviction for n immaterial
embezzlement. / DTlVmESnBmEZE(r) /
L + Ecf + Gk immeasurable
ignescent a photometer for measuring the
illumination of surfaces. immeasurably
ignition Houston and Kennelly called their adv
invention an illuminometer. / i(m)Smezh(E)rEblG /
ignore L > Ecf + L + L > F > E
illustrious in a manner that is incapable of
illaudable adj being measured.
/ DSlEstrGEs / A two-volume index adds
illeist L + Ecf immeasurably to the usefulness of
notably or brilliantly outstanding. the encyclopedia.
illfare The ambassador’s illustrious
achievements are known immediacy
throughout the land.
Page 133 of 289

immemorial impartiality imperil
adj n v
/ i(m)mDSmPrGEl / / TimTpBrshGSalEZG / / DmSperEl /
L>F L L>F>E
not within the reach of memory, freedom from bias or favoritism. expose to danger of imminent harm
record, or tradition : indefinitely Justice is often personified with a or loss.
ancient. blindfold and scales to represent The investigation into fund-raising
Daring teenagers have been impartiality. efforts could imperil the
climbing Devil’s Rock since time candidate’s political future.
immemorial. impartible
imperilment
immerge impassionate
imperious
immigrant impatient
imperiously
immiscibility impeach
n impermeable
/ i(m)SmisESbilEZG / impeachment
L n impertinent
inability to mix or become / DmSpGchmEnt /
homogeneous. F>E impetrated
Rain falling on an oil slick conviction of misconduct and v
demonstrates the immiscibility of usually removal from office. / SimpETtrCZEd /
the two liquids. Faced with almost certain L
impeachment, Richard Nixon obtained by request or entreaty :
immitigable became the first United States procured.
president to resign from office. Lisa impetrated a bottle of Dijon
immittance mustard from the couple at the next
impel table and spread some on her
immobile v sandwich.
/ DmSpel /
immobilize L impetuous
v urge or drive by force or constraint.
/ i(m)SmPbETlIz / Contrary to the best calculations of impignorate
L>F policy, the nation will impel its
interfere with or prevent freedom government to war. impingement
of movement or effective use of.
The general planned to use his impenitently impious
secret weapon to immobilize enemy
forces. impercipient impish
adj adj
immortelle / TimpE(r)SsipGEnt / / Simpish /
L E
immund lacking intuitive recognition or relating to a person who behaves
insight. mischievously.
immune The critic complained that the Troy’s impish behavior was not
adj novel’s characters were so tolerated at his new school.
/ DSmyVn / impercipient that no one could
L possibly care about them. impishness
protected, guarded.
Wearing her heavy parka made imperfect implicate
Judith immune to the cold wind.
immunity
immunize
immunology
Page 134 of 289

implosion imprecate impudent
n v adj
/ DmSplPzhEn / / SimprDTkCt / / SimpyEdEnt /
L L L
the action of bursting inward. invoke evil upon : curse. disrespectful, insolent.
Judd’s chemistry experiment The defendant’s attorney expects The bully stood before the principal
created a small implosion after the that the angry plaintiff may with an impudent and haughty look
oxygen was consumed. imprecate her during cross- in his eye.
examination.
impluvium impugnable
imprecatory adj
impofo / DmSpyVnEbEl /
impreg L
impolite capable of being called into
adj impregnable question.
/ TimpESlIt / adj Although the senator’s loyalty was
L / imSpregnEbEl / never doubted, his judgment was
lacking in politeness, in etiquette, L>F>E certainly impugnable.
or in consideration of others. incapable of being taken by assault.
“All I meant was that perhaps it Three feet of densely packed snow impugnment
isn’t too important,” Milo enveloping Dieter’s fort rendered it
repeated, trying not to be impolite. impregnable. impuissant
imponderable impressive imu

adj
importunate / DmSpresiv / inability
adj L + Ecf
/ DmSpOrchEnDt / tending to arouse the strong interest inaccessible
L or admiration of another. adj
troublesomely urgent : overly The singer’s vocal range is very / TinikSsesEbEl /
persistent in request or demand. impressive. L
Peter’s importunate requests for not capable of being reached,
assistance cause people to ignore improvement entered, or approached.
and also avoid him. Damian remodeled his store’s
improvident entrance because it was
importune inaccessible to people in
v improving wheelchairs.
/ TimpErStVn /
L&F improvisation inadequacy
press or urge with frequent or n n
unreasonable requests or / (T)imTprBvESzCshEn / / inSadDkwEsG /
troublesome persistence. L>F L
The political organization was the act of creating an the state of being not fully
asked not to importune shoppers to extemporaneous composition (as of sufficient for a specified or implied
sign petitions in front of the store. music or poetry). requirement.
Joel found he had a real gift for The psychologist spoke about the
imposing improvisation on his saxophone. feelings of failure, powerlessness,
adj and inadequacy that overwhelm
/ DmSpPziN / improvisational people in a society obsessed with
L > F + Ecf adj success.
impressive because of size, scope, / imTprBvESzCshEnFl /
bearing, dignity, or grandeur. L inadvertently
The imposing statues at the composed extemporaneously. adv
temple’s entrance awed the Patrick enjoys improvisational / TinEdSvErtEntlG /
visitors. dancing but not ballroom dancing. Ecf + L + Ecf
unintentionally.
Grace inadvertently locked her
keys in the trunk of her car.
Page 135 of 289

inamissible incisive incommensurate
adj adj
inappetence / inSsIsiv / / TinkESmen(t)s(E)rDt /
L L
inaudible having a cutting edge or piercing not equal in measure or extent.
point. Stephanie’s expenditures are
inaugurate Mr. Cunningham’s wit was as incommensurate with her salary, so
incisive as the stroke of a fang. she is looking for a higher-paying
inaugurator position.
n incisor
/ DSnOgyETrCZE(r) / incommoding
L incite v
a person who begins or brings v / TinkESmPdiN /
about the beginning of something. / DnSsIt / L
Geoffrey of Monmouth is credited L giving inconvenience or distress to.
as the inaugurator of the legends of [has near homonym: insight] move Mr. Elton offered to take the
King Arthur. to a course of action : stir up : urge drawing to London, and Emma did
on. her best to pack it as to ensure its
incalescent Patrick Henry’s goal was to incite safety without much incommoding
his listeners to rebel. him.
incandesce
inclemency incommunicado
incantations
n pl inclinometer incompatible
/ TinTkanStCshEnz / adj
L inclusion / TinkEmSpaZEbEl /
uses of spells or verbal charms L
spoken or sung as part of ritual or incogitant incapable of harmonious
magic. combination.
The priest pronounced barely incognita Marriage would not do for Emma;
audible incantations over the sick n it would be incompatible with what
man. / TinTkBgSnGZE / she owed to her father.
L
incarnadine [has near homonym: incognito] a incompletable
woman in disguise; especially : one
incavation concealing her real quality or state incomplete
under some unobtrusive
incentive appearance. inconcinnity
Though her employers knew her as n
inched Jane Swanson, the incognita was / inTkEnSsinEZG /
really a dangerous terrorist named L
incinerated Carmen Leblanc. lack of suitability or congruity :
v awkward or unsuitable form or
/ DnSsinETrCZDd / incoherently character.
L adv There was an obvious inconcinnity
caused to burn to ashes. / TinkPShirEntlG / between the lawyer’s offense and
Janna incinerated her love letters L the penalty imposed by the judge.
in the wood stove. in a manner lacking orderly
continuity or relevance. incongruent
incipiently The distraught woman explained
rather incoherently that she inconsolable
incise couldn’t find her three-year-old adj
daughter. / TinkEnSsPlEbEl /
incision L
incapable of being consoled :
grieved beyond comfort.
A friend advised the inconsolable
widow to consider going to live
with her daughter for a while.
Page 136 of 289

inconvenient incurrable indisputable
adj adj adj
/ TinkEnSvGnyEnt / / DnSkErEbEl / / indDSspyVZEbEl /
L L L
giving trouble, uneasiness, or [has near homonym: incurable] that is beyond argument :
annoyance. liable to be brought down upon unquestionable.
Rachel’s mom complains that the oneself. Geraldo considered the result of
location of the kitchen in relation to When laws are violated, penalties his experiment indisputable.
their garage is terribly are incurrable.
inconvenient. indistinguishable
indecisively adj
incorporeal adv / TindDSstiNgwishEbEl /
/ TindDSsIsDvlG / L
incorporeity L + Ecf incapabable of being perceived as
n indistinctly, vaguely. being separate or different.
/ TinTkO(r)pESrGEZG / Tim’s answer was given Mom could not be conned into
L indecisively. believing that margarine is
the quality or state of having no indistinguishable from butter.
material body or form. indefectible
The students in the introductory individual
physics class were puzzled by the indehiscent
incorporeity of the photon. individuality
indelibly
incorruptible individually
adj index
/ TinkESrEptEbEl / indivisible
L indexically adj
incapable of being bribed or / TindDSvizEbEl /
changed from good to bad in indignant L
morals, manners, or actions. adj not separable into parts.
The local police force prided itself / DnSdignEnt / Democritus postulated the
on being incorruptible. L existence of the atom, which he
filled with or marked by intense thought was the smallest indivisible
incrassate resentment. unit of matter.
Mrs. Calloway was indignant over
incredulous the committee’s decision. inducible
incremental indignity industry

adj n
/ TiNkrESmentFl / / DnSdignEZG / inebriacy
L>E L
of, relating to, constituting, or something humiliating or injurious inebriety
resulting from slight or to one’s self-esteem : insult, n
imperceptible augmentations. outrage. / TinESbrIEZG /
Though Nathan’s day-to-day The prisoners were forced to suffer L
growth was incremental, he grew one indignity after another. drunkenness.
eight inches in a year’s time. Arthur saw very little humor in the
indirect comedian’s feigned inebriety.
incriminate
indirectly inedita
incroyable
indirubin ineffaceable
incunabula
indiscreet
incur
indispensable
Page 137 of 289

inefficient inestimable infatuate
adj adj
/ inDSfishEnt / / inSestEmEbEl / infatuated
Ecf + L L adj
wasteful of time or energy in too valuable or excellent to be / DnSfachETwCZDd /
performing work. measured or appreciated. L
Measuring once and cutting twice The soldier died in battle, unaware possessed with or marked by a
is more inefficient than measuring of the inestimable service he had strong attachment or foolish or
twice and cutting once. performed for his country. unreasoning love.
The young man, infatuated with his
ineligibility inevitability first love, was blind to her faults.
n
ineligible / (T)iTnevEZESbilEZG / infer
adj L v
/ inSelDjEbEl / the quality or state of being / DnSfEr /
L incapable of being avoided or L
not qualified to be chosen. evaded. derive by reasoning or implication.
According to the rules, last year’s The character rages throughout the The reader was left to infer what
champion is ineligible to compete play at the unfairness of life and Jojo’s crime was.
this year. the inevitability of death.
inference
inerrant inexcusable
adj inferential
/ inSerEnt / inexcusably
L adv infidel
free from error or mistake. / TinikSskyVzEblG / n
The minister expressed staunch L + Ecf / SinfETdel /
commitment to the inerrant not justifiably, not apologetically. L>F
authority of Scripture. Toby is inexcusably late for his an unbeliever in respect to a
violin lesson. particular religion.
inescapable Ann’s favorite painting in the
inexhaustible museum is a 17th-century portrait
inesculent adj entitled Conversion of the Infidel.
adj / TinigSzOstEbEl /
/ inSeskyElEnt / L infiltration
L incapable of being used up :
not suitable for use as food unfailing. infirmarian
especially for human beings : After her visit to Third World
inedible. countries, Jody realized that she infirmary
Gary was sick for several days lived in a land that had an n
after eating an inesculent inexhaustible wealth in agriculture. / DnSfErm(E)rG /
mushroom. L
inexpensiveness a hospital or place where the sick
inessential are lodged for treatment.
adj infallibility The camp nurse confined Jason to
/ TinDSsenchEl / the infirmary after he fainted.
L infamous
not necessary : dispensable. infirmity
The soldier claims that enforcement infanticide n
of inessential regulations is petty n / DnSfErmEZG /
harassment of the weak by the / DnSfantETsId / L
strong. L feebleness, frailty.
a killing of a newly or recently Fortunately Grandpa Edgar’s
born child. infirmity of body is not
In ancient Rome the head of the accompanied by mental infirmity.
family had the right to commit
infanticide.
infantry
Page 138 of 289

inflammable ingenuity injudiciously
adj
/ DnSflamEbEl / ingots inkblot
L
capable of being easily set on fire. ingravescence inlier
Inflammable hair products carry a
warning label. ingredient innate
n
inflexible / DnSgrGdGEnt / innavigable
adj L adj
/ inSfleksEbEl / something that enters into a / i(n)SnavDgEbEl /
L>E compound or is a component part L
rigid. of any combination or mixture. not deep enough or wide enough to
Nature’s laws are more inflexible Grandma refuses to reveal the afford passage to ships.
than iron. secret ingredient that makes her Since the dam was built, the Green
chocolate cake so delicious. River has been innavigable.
inflorescence
ingress innocuously
influence
ingurgitate innoxious
influenceable v
/ DnSgErjETtCt / innuendo
influential L
swallow, devour, or drink greedily inoculum
infralittoral or in large quantity. v
Even if Fran’s dog has recently / DSnBkyElEm /
infrared been fed, he will ingurgitate L
adj anything that is put in front of him . material (as spores, bacteria, or
/ TinfrESred / contaminated fluids) used or
L+E inhaust suitable for use as an immunity-
lying outside the visible spectrum inducing agent.
at its red end. inherent Dr. Srinivasan administered the
The sun’s infrared radiation is diphtheria inoculum quickly and
responsible for the warmth felt in inhospitable placed a small bandage over the
direct sunlight. adj spot.
/ TinhBSspiZEbEl /
infrastructure L inordinate
n providing no shelter or sustenance. adj
/ SinfrETstrEkchE(r) / Deserts seem to be inhospitable to / DSnO(r)dFnDt /
L frogs, yet 23 species live in L
the underlying foundation or basic Australia’s arid regions. exceeding in amount, quantity,
framework (as of an organization force, intensity, or scope the
or a system). inhumanness ordinary, reasonable, or prescribed
Martin’s economics project limits.
required him to set up a city inion Andrew thought Amanda was
government, complete with n taking an inordinate amount of
infrastructure. / SinGTBn / time getting ready for her date.
Gk
infrigidate the external occipital protuberance inosculate
of the skull. v
infundibular The coroner determined that the / DnSBskyETlCt /
cause of the hitchhiker’s death was L
infuriated a blow to the inion. unite or join so as to become or
v make as if one : blend.
/ DnSfyUrGTCtEd / inirritability Through surgery Dr. Manning will
L inosculate the torn tissues.
enraged, maddened. initiate
The traffic jam infuriated those
drivers with little or no patience. inject
Page 139 of 289

insatiate inseparably instantly
adj adv
/ inSsCsh(G)Dt / / inSsepErEblG / instep
L L
not satisfied. in a manner so as not to be instigator
The pirates were fierce fighters, separated or disjoined. n
hardy seamen, and insatiate The city of Las Vegas is / SinztETgCZE(r) /
plunderers. inseparably associated with L
gambling. one that provokes or incites.
inscription The substitute teacher named Verne
insignificant as the instigator of the disruption.
inseam adj
/ TinTsigSnifDkEnt / instinct
insecticolous L
of little size or importance. instinctively
insectival Marcella told her brother not to let adv
an insignificant quarrel with his / inzStiN(k)tDvlG /
insectivorous best friend spoil the friendship. L + Ecff
adj in a manner determined by natural
/ TinTsekStiv(E)rEs / insincerity impulse or propensity.
L + Ecf n Instinctively Josey knew that he
feeding on insects : depending on / TinsEnSserEZG / had taken a wrong turn at the
insects as food. L corner.
Some birds and spiders are the quality or state in which one is
insectivorous. not what one appears to be or does institute
not express what one appears to
inselberg express. instructed
n George’s apology oozed with
/ Sin(t)sElTbErg / insincerity. instructible
G
an isolated mountain partly buried insinuator instrument
by the debris derived from and
overlapping its slopes. insinuendo insufferable
The bare, rounded inselberg of
rock stands like an island in a sea insistence insufflator
of vegetation.
insolation insular
insensate n
adj / Tin(t)(T)sPSlCshEn / insulate
/ inSsenTsCt / L v
L [has near homonym: insulation] / Sin(t)sETlCt /
unfeeling : cruel, harsh. solar radiation that has been L
Brian despised and protested the received (as by Earth). separate or shield from conducting
insensate strategy of the war. Insolation can cause a lake’s bodies by means of nonconductors
temperature to rise by several so as to prevent transfer of
insensitive degrees in a matter of hours. electricity, heat, or sound.
adj The material used to insulate the
/ inSsen(t)sEZiv / insoluble music department’s practice rooms
L>F>E was ineffective.
lacking feeling. inspection
Only a thoroughly insensitive insuperable
person would not respond to a inspector
child’s cry for help.
inspissate
installation
instantaneity
Page 140 of 289

insuppressible intellectualize interference
adj v n
/ insESpresEbEl / / TintFlSekchE(wE)lIz / / TintE(r)SfirEn(t)s /
L > Ecf + L + L > Ecf L + Ecf L
impossible to put down or out of give rational form or content to. the act of meddling in or hampering
existence. Sometimes Marie tries so hard to an activity or process.
The crowd’s anger proved intellectualize her problems that Rachel’s contribution to the group
insuppressible, and the police had she loses track of what she really project turned out to be
to be called. feels. interference, not help.
insurgency intelligentsia interfering

n v
/ DnSsErjEnsG / intemperance / TintE(r)Sfi(E)riN /
L + Ecf L + Ecf
a condition of revolt against a intenerate entering into or taking a part in the
recognized government that does v concerns of others.
not reach the proportions of an / DnStenETrCt / Gladden thought his older brother
organized revolutionary L was interfering in his decision to
government and is not recognized make sympathetic or sensitive : attend Ohio University.
as belligerency. soften.
Installation of a puppet government The captive’s pleas served to interferon
resulted in widespread insurgency. intenerate the victor’s heart.
interfluve
insurgents intense
n pl adj intergalactic
/ DnSsErjEn(t)s / / DnSten(t)s /
L L interim
[has homonym: insurgence] existing in a strained or extreme
persons who rise in revolt against degree. interject
civil authority or an established Mr. Siberell’s slight twitch was a v
government. sign of intense anxiety. / TintE(r)Sjekt /
To strengthen, perpetuate, and L
extend slavery was the object for intensification interpose, interpolate.
which the insurgents would rend Jared tried without success to
the Union even by war. intensively interject a comment at the meeting.
adv
integer / inSten(t)sDvlG / interlace
L v
integral zealously, eagerly. / TintE(r)SlCs /
adj This summer Jeremy is studying F>E
/ SintDgrEl / intensively for the Utah bar exam. unite by or as if by weaving or
L twining together.
of, relating to, or serving to form a intercut The counselor showed the campers
whole. how to interlace leather cords to
Political and economic interested make a lanyard.
independence are integral to one
another. interferant interloper
integrand interfere intermediate
integrity intermission
n
intellectualism / TintE(r)SmishEn /
L
a planned interruption in a
program.
During the intermission the lobby
was filled with patrons discussing
the first act.
Page 141 of 289

internecion intestate intrude
n
/ TintErSneshEn / intimidated intruder
L v
[Note: Could be confused with / DnStimETdCZDd / intuition
internecine.] mutual destruction : L
massacre. made timid or fearful : frightened. intuitive
The Civil War Battle of Antietam is Jerry’s dog is intimidated by loud
the bloodiest single-day battle in noises and hides under the bed intussusception
American history, an internecion during thunderstorms.
that claimed more than 23,000 inunction
lives. intimidator
inunctum
interosseous intolerant
adj invadable
/ TintE(r)SBsGEs / intonaco
L invariably
situated between bones; especially : intonation adv
lying between the bones of the leg n / inSverGEblG /
or forearm. / TintESnCshEn / L>F
When Kate fell, she damaged the L without exception or change :
interosseous membrane of her right a pitch phenomenon in speech that always, consistently.
forearm. makes a syntactical or emotional He invariably leaped before he
distinction. looked and never cared where he
interpretant Molly judged from Luke’s was going as long as he knew why
intonation that he was more he shouldn’t have gone to where
interpretation disappointed than he would admit. he’d been.
interrogate intrados invasion

v n
/ DnSterETgCt / / SintrETdBs / invention
L L+F
question typically with formality, the interior curve of an arch. inverness
command, and thoroughness for Maryanne believed that the arched
full information and circumstantial doorway of her new home needed inversion
detail. some decoration, so she stenciled n
Ms. Chapin called Darina to the the intrados. / DnSvErzhEn /
office to interrogate her about the L
missing bicycle. intramontane a reversal of normal atmospheric
temperature gradient : increase of
interstices intraneous temperature of the air with
increasing altitude.
interstitial intravasation Rapid cooling of Earth’s surface
causes an inversion wherein the
intertrigo intricacy lower levels of air are colder than
n the higher levels.
/ TintE(r)StrI(T)gP / intriguingly
L invertebrate
inflammation produced by chafing introspect n
of adjacent areas of skin. v / inSvErZETbrCt /
The shirtless runner developed / SintrETspect / L
intertrigo along his sides from L an animal having no backbone or
pumping his arms while running. look within (as one’s own mind). internal skeleton.
Bokeem likes to sit on the edge of Carla’s example of an invertebrate
interval the pond in his aunt’s backyard and was the jellyfish that she found on
introspect. the beach last summer.
interveinal
introuvable
interwrought
Page 142 of 289

inverted involute irksome
adj adj adj
/ DnSvErZEd / / SinvETlVt / / SErksEm /
L L E
turned upside down or inside out. curled spirally. causing annoyance or vexation :
The blood rushed to his head as he Seashells are generally either irritating.
zoomed across the field in inverted involute or orbicular. Gary found the speaker’s nasal
flight. voice irksome.
involve
investiture iroko
n iodopsin n
/ DnSvestETchU(E)r / n / DSrP(T)kP /
L / TIESdBpsDn / Yoruba
the ceremonial conferral of Gk a very large timber tree of tropical
symbols of office or honor. a photosensitive violet pigment in western Africa with strong durable
The new archbishop arrived at his the retinal cones of most animals streaky lustrous brown wood that is
investiture with a letter of that is important in daylight vision. extremely resistant to termite attack
appointment from the pope, then The cone cells in the human eye and often used as a substitute for
donned his miter and offered a contain three types of iodopsin that teak.
homily. respond to red, blue, and green. Logs of iroko were shipped to
Mystic Seaport from Ghana for the
invigorating iridaceous building of the Amistad replica.
adj
inviscate / TirESdCshEs / ironclad
v Gk > L
/ DnSviTskCt / resembling an iris. ironically
L The showy iridaceous flowers were
encase in a sticky substance : make the hit of the exhibit. ironworker
viscid.
When Lauren learned that some iridesce irony
hunters smear birdlime on v
branches to inviscate birds, she / TirESdes / irrebuttable
became enraged. Gk adj
show colors like those of the / TirESbEZEbEl /
invisible rainbow especially in shifting Ecf + F > F + Ecf
adj patterns of hues and shades that impossible to refute or contradict.
/ TinSvizEbEl / vary with a change of light or point The researchers were convinced
L of view. that their findings were
of such small size as to be hardly Fini sat on the dock watching the irrebuttable.
noticeable. gasoline spill iridesce on the water.
Isaiah felt invisible sitting in the irrefutable
back of the lecture hall. iridescence
irremeable
invite iridescently
irremediable
involucre iridium
n irremovable
/ SinvETlVkE(r) / iridize
L v irreproachable
a rosette of bracts surrounding a / SirEdIz / adj
composite flower head. L + Ecf / irDSprPchEbEl /
The florist pointed out the make to show colors like those of L+F>E
involucre around the daisy’s flower the rainbow. blameless, faultless, impeccable.
head. Mohandas proceeded to iridize the The Seeing Eye dog’s behavior
polished metal surface by applying during the airplane flight was
involuntary heat to it. irreproachable.
irreption
Page 143 of 289

irresponsible isarithm isogenous
n
irretrievable / SIsETriLm / isogloss
adj Gk n
/ TirDStrGvEbEl / [has homonym: isorhythm] a line / SIsPTglBs /
Ecf + F > E + Ecf drawn on a chart or map to connect Gk
impossible to recoup, repair, or points having equal numerical a boundary line between places or
overcome. values (as of temperature, regions that differ in a particular
By not going to college when he elevation, or density of population). linguistic feature.
had the opportunity, Jack suffered Noelle traced the elevation isarithm The shape of the isogloss confirmed
an irretrievable loss. from the topographical map onto Matilda’s theory about regional
her hiking map. dialects.
irreverent
adj iscariotic isolate
/ iSrev(E)Trent /
L ischium isolation
not proceeding from or expressing
honor or respect. isentropic isolationist
Mother considers it irreverent to adj adj
leave church before the service is / TIsFnStrBpik / / TIsESlCsh(E)nDst /
over. Gk L > It > F + Ecff
taking place without change of the of, characterized by, or favoring a
irrision amount of energy in a system not policy directed towards keeping a
n available for doing work. nation apart from other nations by a
/ DSrizhEn / If steam could be expanded in a deliberate abstention from alliances
L turbine with no friction or other and other international and
a laughing at a person or thing. losses, expansion would be economic relations.
When Mrs. Scott’s hat blew off, the isentropic. Isolationist sentiment has often
class broke out in irrision. been strong in the United States.
island
irritable isometric
adj islay
/ SirEZEbEl / isometrics
L isobar n pl
likely to become impatient, angry, n / TIsESmetriks /
or disturbed. / SIsPbBr / Gk + Gk
Caleb is especially irritable when Gk > ISV exercise or a system of exercises
he is tired. an imaginary line on a map involving contraction of the
connecting places on the surface of muscles against resistance.
irritator Earth with equal barometric On January first, Maggie began an
n pressure. ambitious program of isometrics.
/ SirETtCZE(r) / Ned noted that the weather map’s
L isobar passed directly through his isonomy
one that aggravates or incites hometown.
displeasure. isothermal
Calvin is the class irritator and isochronal
likes to make the teacher shout at adj Israelite
him. / ISsBkrEnFl / n
Gk / SizrGElTIt /
uniform in time : recurring at Heb > Gk
regular intervals. a member of one of the ten Hebrew
Even early humans realized that tribes anciently inhabiting the
sunrise was isochronal and not northern part of Palestine.
randomly recurring. On his trip through the valley
Jacob met an Israelite tending a
isochronous small flock of sheep.
isocracy issuance
Page 144 of 289

issue jacopever jejunum
italicize jacqueminot jellify
ivied jaded jeopardous

adj
/ SIvGd / jagged jersey
E
covered with ivy. jailbird jessamine
The ivied ruins attested to the
magnificence of the original jangling jessamy
cathedral. v
/ SjaNgliN / jetbead
iwan Gmc > F > E
sounding harshly or discordantly. jettisonable
jabber Though Hector’s alarm clock was
jangling, he remained fast asleep. jetty
jackboot
n japonaiserie jewel
/ SjakTbVt / n
nickname + E / zhATpOnez(E)SrG / jewels
a laceless military boot reaching to F n pl
the calf. a style of art reflecting Japanese / SjVElz /
The jackboot has come to qualities or motifs. F>E
symbolize cruel military The restaurant’s ambience was ornaments of precious metal often
oppression. enhanced by the use of set with gems.
japonaiserie. “The last rays of sun were falling
jackdaw through a glade of the wood and
jarana were shining bright as jewels on
jackhammer n the flowery mantle of the wreck,”
/ hESrBnE / Sam read aloud.
jackrabbit Sp
a couple dance of Yucatan that is jimmies
jackroller performed with waltz and n pl
zapateado steps. / SjimGz /
Jacksonian In Cancun one still sees couples unknown
adj dancing the jarana. tiny rod-shaped bits of variously
/ jakSsPnGEn / flavored candy often sprinkled on
American name jasm ice cream and pastry.
of or relating to Andrew Jackson, Carol order vanilla ice cream with
his views or policies, or his era. jasminewood chocolate jimmies.
The politician preached his brand
of Jacksonian politics in all the jaywalk jingle
town squares through which he
passed. jazz jingly
Jacobin jealous jingoish

n adj
/ SjakEbDn / jeans / SjiN(T)gPish /
L proper name? + Ecf
member of an extremist political jejunely marked by arrogant nationalism.
group advocating equalitarian adv Senator Clark’s jingoish foreign
democracy and famous for its / jDSjVnlG / policy recommendations were
terrorist policies during the French L roundly denounced by his
Revolution of 1789. in an immature or juvenile manner. colleagues.
The Bostonian Federalists grew up Although the colors of the painting
under the impression that a were unusual and bold, Sam jitney
Jacobin was a repulsive creature. guessed that the brushstrokes had
been executed jejunely. jockey
Page 145 of 289

jodhpurs joyfully juror
adv
jogger / SjOif(E)lG / jury
E
join in a happy or jubilant manner. justified
At the age of six Malachy joyfully
jollity began school. justify
jordanon joyous jut

n adj
/ SjO(r)dFnTBn / / SjOiEs / jute
F name + Gkcf L > F > E + Ecf
a small usually localized population happy, joyful. kale
slightly but effectively Jeremy was utterly joyous as he
differentiated from related forms. revealed his latest work of art. Kallikak
The Himalayan blackberry plant is n
a very aggressive jordanon that joyride / SkalETkak /
can spread over a radius of 10 feet Gk > US literary name
in a year. judge a stupid person.
v Andrea’s brother teased her by
joropo / SjEj / calling her a Kallikak.
L>F>E
jorum form an authoritative opinion kalon
about.
jounce An experienced editor can judge kamelaukion
the quality of a manuscript from a n
journalese few sample pages. / TkBmESlaUkTyOn /
n Gk
/ TjErnFlSGz / judgmental a tall brimless hat worn by priests
L > F > E + L > Pg&It and monks in some Eastern rites.
a style of writing held to be judicature When Kathy visited Crete, a
characteristic of newspapers. bearded priest in a tall black
The word transpired is considered juggins kamelaukion asked her if she was
journalese because it rarely occurs from Chicago.
outside of newspapers. jughead
kamik
journalist juicily n
/ SkBmik /
jovially julep Esk
adv [has homonym: comic] an Eskimo
/ SjPvGElG / junco sealskin boot.
L Among Alaskan natives, the
in a jolly, good-humored manner. Jungian homemade kamik is still the most
Mr. Edwards jovially donned the adj common footwear.
Santa Claus suit and took a seat / SyUNGEn /
near the children. Swiss name kanji
of, relating to, or having the n
Jovian characteristics of the psychological / SkBn(T)jG /
adj doctrines of Carl G. Jung. Jpn
/ SjPvGEn / Becky showed how the novel Mists a Japanese system of writing based
L of Avalon made extensive use of on the Chinese one and composed
relating to the planet Jupiter. Jungian archetypes. principally of characters borrowed
The Jovian magnetic field is much or adapted from Chinese.
stronger than Earth’s. juration Evan was awarded the university
linguistics prize for his paper on
jowly juratory the history of kanji.
jurimetrics
Page 146 of 289

Kantian kathakali Kelvin
adj n adj
/ SkantGEn / / TkBZESkBlG / / SkelvDn /
G name Skt > Malayalan E name
of or relating to the German a spectacular lyric dance drama of relating to, conforming to, or
philosopher Immanuel Kant. southern India performed with having a thermometric scale on
Professor Smith’s lectures betrayed acrobatic energy and highly which the unit of measurement
a strong bias toward Kantian stylized pantomime. equals the Celsius degree and
metaphysics. The dancers in the kathakali had according to which absolute zero is
painted faces and stylized costumes 0 degrees Kelvin.
kaolinic and headwear. The Kelvin scale has been adopted
as the international standard for
kaolinize Katmandu scientific temperature
adj measurement.
karma / TkatTmanSdV /
n Nepalese geog name kemancha
/ SkBrmE / of or from Katmandu, the capital of n
Skt Nepal. / kESmBnchE /
in Hinduism and Buddhism, the Marisa has a Katmandu prayer rug Per > Ar
sum total of the ethical hanging on her wall. an Arabian violin that has usually a
consequences of a person’s good or single string and a gourd resonator
bad actions comprising thoughts, Keatsian and is held vertically when played.
words, and deeds. adj When his mother was transferred to
In Buddhism, harming another / SkGtsGEn / the Middle East for her job,
being is believed to contribute to E name Michael took up the kemancha.
bad karma. of, relating to, or characteristic of
the English poet John Keats. kench
karyogamy Mr. Gardner criticized the poet’s
excessive use of Keatsian allusions. kentledge
karyology
keelage kerchoo
karyotin
keenly kernelly
karyotype adv adj
n / SkGnlG / / SkErnFlG /
/ SkarGETtIp / E E
Gk + Gk in a manner characterized by [has near homonym: carnally]
the sum of the specific intense interest. having or containing whole grains
characteristics of a cell nucleus The cat watched keenly as the or seeds.
including chromosome number, nuthatches came and went from the Jeffrey is quite fond of a certain
form, size, and points of spindle- birdfeeder. kind of kernelly bread.
fiber attachment.
Most male children are of the 46- keenness ketone
XY karyotype, which means they n
have 46 chromosomes including keitloa / SkGTtPn /
one XY pair. n G
/ SkItlEwE / any of a class of organic
kathak Sechuana compounds (as acetone) that are
n a black rhinoceros that has a characterized by a carbonyl group
/ kEStBk / posterior horn and which has been attached to two carbon atoms.
Skt > Beng considered to constitute a distinct Certain diseases in humans are
an intricate dance of northern India species. marked by the presence of
that includes passages of narrative While on safari, Roger and Sandy excessive amounts of ketone in the
pantomime. saw a rare keitloa. circulatory system.
The kathak Simon saw in Delhi told
the story of an emperor disguised kelpfish
as a poor beggar.
Page 147 of 289

kettle kick kiloliter
n v
/ SkeZFl / / Skik / kilometer
ON > E E n
a cooking utensil with a bail give impetus to something with a / kDSlBmEZE(r) /
handle. usually fast blow with the foot, Gk > F
A soup kettle hung from a hook in generally with the intention of a metric unit of length equal to
the castle kitchen’s enormous scoring or gaining ground. 1,000 meters.
fireplace. Julio could kick the football 75 Bob knew he was out of shape
yards but was uninterested in when he couldn’t run a kilometer
kewpie trying out for the team. without gasping for air.
keyhole kicksorter kilowatts

n
/ SkGThPl / kidney Kilroy
E+E n n
a hole or aperture for receiving a / SkidnG / / SkilTrOi /
key. E Amer name
In the dark, Demmie could not find one of a pair of vertebrate organs an inveterate traveler.
the keyhole. situated in the body cavity near the Most of Lyra’s postcard collection
spinal cavity that serve to excrete comes from her uncle Thor, who is
Keynesian waste products. quite a Kilroy.
adj In an effort to save his daughter’s
/ SkCnzGEn / life, the prisoner sued the state to kindhearted
E name be allowed to give her his only
of or relating to the advocacy of kidney. kindred
monetary and fiscal programs by
government to increase kidskin kingfisher
employment.
Professor Rabin is a proponent of kiekie kinless
Keynesian economics.
kier kinship
keystone
kilderkin kinsman
khatun n
/ SkildE(r)kDn / kipper
khedive (L + D) > E
a cask about half the size of a kirimon
kibbutz common barrel and sometimes
n smaller. kirsch
/ kiSbUts / By a 16th-century English statute a
Heb kilderkin for beer had to contain 18 kirtle
a collective farm or settlement in gallons; one for ale, 16 gallons. n
Israel. / SkErZFl /
Meredith’s pen pal lives on a killarney E
kibbutz. n [has homonyms: curdle, curtal] a
/ kDSlBrnG / garment resembling a tunic or coat
kibbutznik Ir geog name usually reaching to the knees and
a moderate yellowish green to worn by men often as the principal
kibe green that is stronger than Gretna body garment until the 16th
green. century.
Seamus said that all the fuss about Ethelred’s kirtle snagged as he
the difference between killarney mounted his steed.
and Gretna green was nonsense.
kiteflying
killcrop
kitten
killjoy
klavern
Page 148 of 289

kleptomania knot koshare
n n
klezmorim / SnBt / / kPSsha(a)(E)r /
E Keres
klipspringer [Note: The definition provided is a Pueblo Indian clown society
n not the one most commonly whose members imitate ancestral
/ SklipTspriNE(r) / associated with this word. In spirits in ceremonies invoking rain.
Afrikaans addition, word has homonyms: While visiting a Pueblo Indian
a small agile African antelope naught, not.] 1 nautical mile per historical site Alan learned about
inhabiting mountainous regions. hour—used as a unit of the tribe’s different societies,
Because of its specially adapted measurement in expressing the rate including the koshare.
hooves, the klipspringer can of speed of airplanes and seagoing
traverse the mountain crags. ships. koto
Lester had trouble explaining the
klister difference between a ship moving kouros
n at 1 knot and a car moving at 1
/ SklistE(r) / mile per hour. kraft
G > Norw
[has homonym: clyster] a soft wax knothole kraken
used on skis especially for corn n
snow or crust. knottiness / SkrBkEn /
Wary of the spring skiing Norw
conditions, Maria applied some known a fabulous Scandinavian sea
klister to her skis. monster perhaps imagined on the
knucklesome basis of chance sightings of giant
klompen squids.
kobold Granddad has an engraving that
klutz depicts a kraken in a fjord.
koftgari
klystron n krakowiak
/ SkOftgE(T)rG / n
knack Per > Hindi / krESkPvGTak /
Indian damascene work in which Pol
knavish steel is inlaid with gold. a Polish group folk dance that
While on vacation in India, Tyler combines elements of the ancient
kneeboard saw many types of koftgari for sale. round, the more recent square, and
the modern polka.
knell koinonia The krakowiak is a lively dance
n named for the area of Poland
knelt / TkOinESnGE / where it originated.
Gk
knickknack intimate spiritual communion and krill
participative sharing in a common n
knife religious commitment and spiritual / Skril /
community. Norw
knifelike Karl’s book details how koinonia [has near homonym: creel]
adj developed among the 12 apostles. planktonic crustaceans and larvae
/ SnIfTlIk / that constitute the principal food of
ON? > E + E komatik whalebone whales.
resembling an instrument with a Researchers are studying ways to
sharp edge. process protein-rich krill into
The tops of the trees created a human food.
knifelike silhouette on the horizon.
krone
knitwear
Page 149 of 289

kugel labile laguna
n adj n
/ SkVgEl / / SlCbDl / / lESgVnE /
G > Yiddish L L > Sp
a baked pudding (as of potatoes, [has homonym: label] readily or [Note: The pronunciation of this
noodles, bread, or cabbage) served continually undergoing chemical or word is close to that of lagoon,
as a side dish or dessert. physical or biological change or which can also be spelled l-a-g-u-n-
Natalie often makes a noodle kugel breakdown. e.] lagoon, lake, pond.
to accompany a roast chicken. The problem at the end of the Water at the bottom of a tropical
chapter was to explain how a laguna is almost always foul.
kulak substance can be
n thermodynamically stable but still laicize
/ kVSlak / labile.
Turkish > Russ lakefront
a prosperous or wealthy peasant labiovelar
farmer in 19th-century Russia. lalopathy
The kulak was a member of the laborer
middle class in pre-revolutionary lamentations
Russia. laburnum n pl
n / TlamEnStCshEnz /
kundalini / lESbErnEm / L
n L vocal expressions of sorrow :
/ TkUndFlSGnG / any plant of a small genus of complaints.
Skt poisonous shrubs and trees having The chorus in the Greek tragedy
the yogic life-force that is held to pendulous racemes of bright yellow uttered wild lamentations for the
lie at the base of the spine until it is flowers. fallen hero.
sent to the head to trigger The laburnum, also known as
enlightenment. “golden rain,” is often cultivated lamina
The ultimate goal of a yogi is to for Easter decoration.
awaken the kundalini. laminectomy
lacertilian
kuru adj lampistry
n / TlasE(r)StilGEn / n
/ SkV(T)rV / L / SlampDstrG /
Fore of or relating to a lizard. Gk > L > F
a rare progressive fatal disease of The zoo’s exhibit included the work of a maker or tender of
the brain that is caused by a slow serpentine and lacertilian reptiles. light-giving devices.
virus and occurs among Tonia recently completed an
tribespeople in eastern New lacery apprenticeship in lampistry.
Guinea.
People who have kuru have lacework lance
symptoms similar to those of n
Alzheimer’s disease. laches / Slan(t)s /
L>F>E
kvetch lackluster a weapon consisting of a long shaft
with a sharp steel head.
kyoodle laconism The jouster settled the lance firmly
v under his arm and charged at the
/ kIS(y)VdFl / lacquer target.
imit
make loud useless noises : holler, lacquering landlubber
yap.
Rover began to kyoodle from the lactoprene landowner
backyard whenever the letter
carrier approached the house. lacustrine landwehr
ladybug
lagging
Page 150 of 289

langley laparotomy larnax
n n n
/ SlaNlG / / TlapESrBZEmG / / SlBrTnaks /
Am name Gk + Gk Gk
a unit of solar radiation equivalent surgical cutting of the abdominal a chest usually of terra cotta and
to 1 gram calorie per square wall. often ornamented that was used in
centimeter of irradiated surface. Kevin’s appendix was removed via ancient Greece especially as a
Like many other measurement a laparotomy. sepulchral chest.
terms, the langley was named after Francis saw a larnax in Greece
a prominent scientist. lapidarian that was said to contain the
adj remains of a general in Alexander
languidly / TlapESda(a)rGEn / the Great’s army.
L+E
languish of, relating to, or inscribed on larvarium
v stone.
/ SlaNgwish / Janice enjoyed reading the lase
L>F lapidarian epitaphs in the old v
lose strength or animation : lose cemetery. / SlCz /
force or vividness : fade. E back-formation
Watching her plants languish in the lapidicolous emit coherent light.
drought was difficult for the adj When excited by an electric
gardener. / TlapESdikElEs / current, the rube crystal began to
L+L lase.
lank living under a stone—used
adj especially of an insect. lasque
/ SlaNk / As Jake overturned the large stone,
E he saw hundreds of lapidicolous latch
slender and thin. beetles scurrying about.
Abe Lincoln was tall and latchet
exceedingly lank with long arms lapse n
and legs. / SlachDt /
lapwing L>F>E
lansquenet n a narrow strap especially of leather
n / SlaTpwiN / by which a shoe or sandal is
/ Tlan(t)skESnet / E fastened upon the foot.
G>F an abundant crested plover that is Nora used a nylon shoelace to
a card game similar to faro played noted for its slow irregular flapping replace her sandal’s leather
in central Europe since the 15th flight and its shrill wailing cry. latchet.
century or before. Some species of lapwing have wing
Unknown to the duke, the duchess spurs for use in fighting. latent
was in deep debt from long nights
spent playing lansquenet. largamente laterite
lanthanum larghissimo latifundia

adv
laparoscopy / lBrSgGsETmP / latke
n L > It n
/ TlapESrBskEpG / in as slow a manner as possible—- / SlBtkE /
Gk + Gk used as a direction in music. Gk > Russ > Yiddish
visual examination of the interior During the dream scene the griddle cake; especially : one made
of the abdomen by using a long orchestra was told to play from grated raw potato.
slender optical instrument inserted larghissimo. Mary preferred her latke without
through the abdominal wall. onion.
Modern-day surgeons are well larkspur
trained in the techniques of
laparoscopy.
Page 151 of 289

latterly lavabo lecture
adv n
/ SlaZE(r)lG / / lESvB(T)bP / lecturer
E + Ecf L
coming after something else : later. a washbasin and a tank with a ledge
Margo was a fishing guide for a spigot that are both fastened to a
while and latterly a mechanic. wall. ledger
Alessandra purchased an antique
latticed lavabo shaped like a lion’s head leech
adj and installed it in her garden.
/ SlaZDst / leewardly
Gmc? > F > E lavish adj
furnished with a framework made / SlVE(r)dlG /
by crossing laths or other thin strips lavishly E + E + Ecf
so as to form a network. tending to fall off away from the
Cyrus fashioned a latticed roof for lawyer wind.
his tree house. She was such a leewardly vessel
laziness that the captain was more than
latticework once forced to anchor on a lee
lazuline shore.
latticinio
leaflet lefse
lauan
n leakage legal
/ lESwBn /
Tag lean legalese
any of various Philippine timbers
that are moderately close-grained leapfrog legatee
and rather stringy and of moderate n
strength and durability. / SlGpfrOg / legato
The contractor told Mrs. Zemeckis E+E adv
that hollow-core doors with a a game in which one player bends / lDSgB(T)tP /
veneer of lauan were the most down on all fours and another L > It
economical choice for her new places his hands on the first in a manner that is smooth and
home. player’s shoulders or back and connected between successive
leaps over him. tones.
laudanum Only children under tha age of 13 The opposite of legato in musical
were allowed to enter the leapfrog direction is staccato.
laugh races.
legendary
laundry learnable
leggings
laureate leash
n legionary
laureateship / SlGsh /
n F>E legitimately
/ SlOrGDtTship / [Note: The definition provided is adv
L+E not the one most commonly / lDSjiZEmDtlG /
the office of poet laureate. associated with this word.] a set of L
In Britain, the poet laureateship is three animals (as greyhounds, according to law or rules.
awarded by the sovereign on the foxes, bucks, or hares). Mabel legitimately owned the
recommendation of the prime A leash of borzois was on the trail automobile, even though she
minister. of a wolf. couldn’t locate her title or
registration.
lebbek
legroom
lebensraum
lekvar
leberwurst
Page 152 of 289

lemma libertarian lightfastness
n n
lengthwise / TlibE(r)SterGEn / / SlItTfastnEs /
adv L > F > E + Ecff E + E + Ecf
/ SleN(k)thTwIz / one who upholds the principles of resistance to fading or change of
E+E individual freedom of thought and color by light.
in the direction of the length. action. Oleanna was satisfied with the
The subway passenger opened his A libertarian would cut down lightfastness of the dyes.
paper and expertly folded it constitutional authority to the
lengthwise. smallest proportions, while an lighthouse
authoritarian leaves but little scope n
lepidote for private judgment. / SlItThaUs /
adj E+E
/ SlepETdPt / liberty a tower or other building equipped
Gk to guide navigators by means of a
covered with flakes or scurfy libration powerful light.
scales. n The damage done to the lighthouse
Lepidote rhododendrons have tiny / lISbrCshEn / was repaired as soon as possible
scales on the undersides of their L after the storm.
leaves. an oscillation in the apparent aspect
of a secondary body (as a planet or lighttight
leporid a satellite) as seen from the primary adj
object around which it revolves. / SlItTtIt /
lepper The latitudinal libration of the E + Scand > E
Moon occurs because its axis is impenetrable by light.
leprechaun tilted slightly. Brother Stephen made sure that the
room was lighttight.
leprosarium libri
n pl lignite
lerot / SlITbrI /
L likelihood
lesions books of records (as of deeds or
wills). likely
letterhead Working among the old, dusty libri
all day gave Curtis a sinus likewise
leucocholy headache.
lilies
leukergy licentious
lilt
lever licitation
limacine
levitate lido
limbless
lexical lieblich
limbo
lexigraphy lierre n
/ SlimTbP /
liar lifeguard L>E
a West Indian acrobatic dance that
libation lifemanship involves bending over backward
and passing under a horizontal pole
liberal ligation which is lowered slightly for each
successive pass.
The limbo is often enjoyed at
informal backyard parties.
Page 153 of 289

limeade lineaments lintel
n n pl n
/ SlITmCd / / SlinGEmEnts / / SlintFl /
Ar > F > E L L>F>E
a drink made with lime juice, sugar, [has near homonym: liniments] the a horizontal architectural member
and water. distinguishing or characteristic spanning and usually carrying the
Gertrude served chilled limeade features of something immaterial. load above an opening.
and sugar cookies. Frieda decided to entitle her thesis The lintel over the front door of the
“The Lineaments of Democracy.” sea captain’s house was decorated
limelight linearity with a carving of a pineapple.
n n
/ SlImTlIt / / TlinGSarEZG / lioness
E+E L + Ecf
the white light produced by a stage the quality or state of involving lionized
lighting instrument in which an measurement in one dimension v
oxyhydrogen flame is directed on a only. / SlIETnIzd /
cylinder of lime. When he graphed the data, Gus Gk > L > F > E + Ecf
The limelight followed the actor as was pleased with the linearity. treated or regarded as a celebrity or
he paced back and forth across the object of interest.
stage. lineolate The Olympic gold medalist was
lionized by her proud hometown.
limen lingual
lipogenous
limequat linguipotence adj
/ lDSpBjEnEs /
limicolous linguistics Gk
n pl producing or tending to produce
limited / liNSgwistiks / fat.
L The veterinarian advised Beth to
limned the study of human speech in its feed Fluffy a less lipogenous diet.
various aspects (as the structure of
Limoges a language including such factors lipogram
n as phonetics, accent, syntax, n
/ lGSmPzh / semantics, grammar, and the / SlipETgram /
F geog name relation between writing and Gk
a superior variety of china. speech). a writing composed of words not
On Thanksgiving Mother set the The professor of linguistics spent having a certain letter.
table with Limoges. more time in class on word Samantha used the search function
formation than he had originally of her word processing program to
linden allocated. ensure that her lipogram was
accurately constructed.
lineage linkage
n lipogrammatism
/ SlinGij / linnet n
F>E / TlipESgramETtizEm /
a group of persons (as a family or linsang Gk
clan) tracing descent from a n the practice of writing something
common ancestor who is regarded / SlinTsaN / composed of words not having a
as its founder. Malay certain letter.
Marcel can trace his lineage to two either of two nocturnal chiefly As an exercise in lipogrammatism,
passengers on the Mayflower. forest-dwelling Asian mammals the writer wrote a novel without
that are related to the mongooses, once using a word with an e in it.
civets, and genets.
The linsang has a yellowish coat
with dark spots in one species and
dark bands in another species.
Page 154 of 289

lipolytic litter lobbyist
adj n n
/ TlIpESliZik / / SliZE(r) / / SlBbGDst /
Gk + Gk L>F>E Gmc > L + Ecf
of, relating to, causing, or resulting [has near homonym: lidder] the a person who conducts activities
from the hydrolysis of fat. offspring at one birth of a with the objective of influencing
The taste of rancid butter is caused multiparous animal. public officials and especially
by the action of lipolytic All the pups except one in Daisy’s members of a legislative body.
microorganisms. litter are black and white. The firm employed an experienced
lobbyist to make their case to the
liquation littlish legislators.
liquefacient liturate lobster
liquefy liturgiologist localitis
liquor livelong locoweed

n
listener livery / SlPkPTwGd /
n Sp + E
literacy / Sliv(E)rG / any of several wild larkspurs of
n F>E western North America that are
/ SliZErEsG / distinctive dress (as of an poisonous to livestock.
L+ Ecf organization, profession, A cow that has eaten locoweed
the quality or state of being able to occupation). behaves very strangely.
read and write. The hotel doorman’s spotless livery
Barbara and Laura Bush are both was green with gold braid. locution
very active in promoting literacy in
our country. livestock lodge
literatim lizard loftily
lithe llanero loge

n
lithely / lBSne(T)rP / logopedics
Sp n pl
lithoglyph a cowboy or herdsman in Spanish / TlOgESpGdiks /
America. Gk
lithophane The llanero stared curiously as the the scientific study and treatment of
revolutionary army sped past. speech defects.
lithophyte Many children with speech defects
n llano have been successfully treated at
/ SlithETfIt / the center for logopedics.
Gk + Gk loathe
a plant or a plantlike organism that v logrolling
grows on the surface of rocks. / lPL /
Lichen is a very common type of E loitering
lithophyte. [Note: Adjective can be spelled v
loath, loth, loathe.] feel strong / SlOiZE(r)iN /
litigate aversion for : detest, abhor. D>E
Practically all the students at frittering away time in the course of
litigious Ridgeview Middle School loathe doing something or proceeding
the vice-principal. somewhere.
litigiously Amanda would have been ready to
meet the bus if she hadn’t been
loitering in front of the TV.
loneliest
Page 155 of 289

longeron luciform lumbago
adj n
longirostrine / SlVsETfOrm / / TlEmSbCTgP /
L L
longitude of, relating to, or having the muscular rheumatism involving the
characteristics of light. muscles of the lower back and
loose Some Platonists held that the soul usually accompanied by pain.
is luciform. Because of his father’s lumbago,
loquat Tim had to do all the snow
lucifugous shoveling.
lorcha adj
/ lVSsifyEgEs / lumberjack
lord L
avoiding light. lumbriciform
lotic Owls and bats are lucifugous adj
creatures of the night. / TlEmSbrisETfOrm /
lotion L+L
lucigen resembling an earthworm.
lottery n The anteater, with its elongated
/ SlVsEjDn / snout and lumbriciform tongue, is
louche L + Gk well adapted to licking up insects.
adj a lamp or torch giving a bright light
/ SlVsh / by burning a mixture of oil mixed lumbricoid
L>F with hot air.
[has near homonym: luge] devious, Mr. Hannay of Glasgow invented luminance
perverse, sinister. the lucigen, which can be used to n
After she caught the boys who had light large, open spaces. / SlVmEnEn(t)s /
teased her poodle, Miss Vorrell L + Ecf
told them she had never seen such lucre the quality or state of emitting a
“louche behavior.” n steady suffused light from within.
louse / SlVkE(r) / The luminance of the 25-watt bulb
n L was not great enough for reading
/ SlaUs / [has near homonym: (trademark the map.
E word) luger] monetary gain : profit,
[has homonym: Laos] any of reward. luminarism
various small wingless usually Sarah was eager to be a runner for n
flattened insects that are parasitic the investment firm because of the / SlumETnETrizEm /
on warm-blooded animals. contacts she could make, not for L > F + Ecf
The sucking louse has piercing and the lucre the job would bring. the concern with or skill in the
sucking mouthparts and lives on portrayal of effects of light and
blood and tissue fluids of mammals luff shade in painting.
as an external parasite. The painter Joseph Turner was a
luggage pioneer of luminarism.
lousicide
lugubriously luminoscope
lousy n
lulled / SlVmEnETskPp /
louvar v L + Gk
/ SlEld / an instrument used for detecting
lovelorn E imit? rare metals in the soil by means of
made quiet. ultraviolet light.
lucarne The sound of Debby crooning to The survey team used a
n him usually lulled Roger to sleep luminoscope and other devices to
/ lVSkBrn / quickly. determine the composition of
OFrk > F various soils.
dormer window.
Violette waved to her father before
closing the lucarne.
Page 156 of 289

lumpen lurking lyncine
adj v
/ SlUmpEn / / SlErkiN / lyophilize
G E
of, relating to, or being an lying in ambush : prowling. lyrebird
amorphous group of dispossessed Patrick’s runaway imagination
and uprooted individuals set off by pictured a monster lurking under lyric
their inferior station from the his bed or in his closet. adj
economic and social class with / Slirik /
which they are identified. lusciously Gk
Though he was a member of the adv characterized by or expressive of
Communist Party, Jerome / SlEshEslG / direct usually intense personal
considered himself an intellectual, E emotion.
not one of the lumpen proletariat. in a manner that is richly luxurious The lyric quality of Sue-Lynn’s
or highly appealing to the senses. poetry is tremendously powerful.
lumpkin The colors of the silk carpet glowed
lusciously in the firelight. lyrical
lunar
adj lutaceous lyricism
/ SlVnE(r) / adj
L / lVStCshEs / lyricist
of, taking place on, or relating to L + Ecf
the Moon. formed from or having the fine lysis
The Babylonian calendar was texture of mud : clayey—used of n
based on the lunar cycle. conglomerate rock. / SlIsDs /
Nina dug a fossil shell out of the Gk
lunation lutaceous river bluff. the gradual decline of a disease
process.
lunette luteovirescent The lysis of Hugh’s fever was
n swifter than Dr. Quinley expected.
/ lVSnet / Lutz
L>F n lyssa
the figure or shape of a crescent / SlUts /
moon. Swiss name maar
The wiper formed a lunette of a figure-skating jump in which the n
visibility on the rain-speckled skater takes off from the back / SmBr /
windshield. outside edge of one skate, rotates G
counterclockwise, and lands on the a more or less circular volcanic
lupine back outside edge of the other crater that is produced by
adj skate. explosion.
/ SlVTpIn / Nancy Kerrigan demonstrated a Jenny had always pictured a
L>E perfect Lutz in the instructional volcano as a conical mountain
of, relating to, or resembling a skating video. topped by a maar, but while
wolf. visiting Hawaii she learned that
The stray dog had a lupine look to luxuriate there are several other shapes.
it.
lyddite mabe
lurid
adj lying macaroons
/ SlUrDd / n pl
L lymphocyte / TmakESrVnz /
wan and ghastly pale in n It > F
appearance. / Slim(p)fETsIt / small cakes composed chiefly of
Jessie was frightened by the lurid Gk egg whites, sugar, and ground
figures at Madame Tussaud’s wax a colorless weakly motile cell that almonds or coconut.
museum, especially that of Jack the is produced in lymphoid tissue. Joel serves tea and macaroons to
Ripper. When a lymphocyte recognizes a the hotel guests at three o’clock
virus in a cell, it will attempt to kill every afternoon.
that cell.
Page 157 of 289

mace macrophagous magnate
adj n
machinate / maSkrBfEgEs / / SmagTnCt /
v Gk + Gk L>E
/ SmakETnCt / [Note: Could be confused with [Note: Alternate pronunciation has
Gk > L microphagous.] feeding on homonym: magnet.] a person
scheme or contrive to bring relatively large particulate matter. prominent in the management of a
(something undesirable) about : The textbook described the large industry or enterprise.
plot. macrophagous tissue cell. The oil magnate bequeathed his
Robert feared that one of his fortune to the local university.
coworkers would machinate to macroscopic
have the entire accounting magnesium
department replaced. macrotia
magnificence
machinery macrotous
magnificently
machismo macrurous adv
n / magSnifEsEntlG /
/ mBSchGz(T)mP / maculacy L + Ecf
Sp grandly, impressively.
a strong sense of masculine pride : macumba At her coronation the queen was
an exaggerated masculinity. n magnificently dressed in a robe of
The Olympic boxer raised his fist to / mESkVmbE / purple velvet and ermine.
the crowd in a display of Pg
machismo. a Brazilian ritual or cult that is magnify
largely of African origin and
machtpolitik combines sorcery with dancing, magniloquent
drumming, and chanting.
macilency The tourists were invited to see an magnitude
n exhibition of macumba in Rio de n
/ SmasElEnsG / Janeiro. / SmagnETtVd /
L L>E
leanness of body : emaciation. madras greatness of size or extent :
It seems that now, as in the early vastness.
’60s, macilency is important to maduro The magnitude of the shift from
fashion models. previous policies left all members
mage of the organization unsure of their
mackereler n roles.
/ SmCj /
maco Gk > L > E magnum
magician.
macrodont The mage muttered a few words, maguey
adj waved his hand, and disappeared.
/ SmakrPTdBnt / mahimahi
Gk magical n
having large teeth. / SmBhGSmBhG /
Little Red Riding Hood found it magician Marquesan, Tahitian, & Hawaiian
strange that her grandmother had n a spiny-finned fish which is widely
become a macrodont creature since / mESjishEn / distributed in tropical and
their last visit. Gk > L > F > E temperate seas and is esteemed as
one who entertains an audience by food.
macron tricks of illusion and sleight of Today’s special is mahimahi
hand. marinated in a soy-ginger sauce.
The magician specialized in card
tricks.
magma
Page 158 of 289

maieutic maledictory mammon
adj n
/ mCSyVZik / maleficence / SmamEn /
Gk Aram > Gk > L
of or relating to the dialectic malevolently material wealth or possessions
method practiced by Socrates in especially having an evil power or
order to elicit and clarify ideas of malfeasance debasing influence : wealth,
others. money.
Instead of giving lectures, malfunction After becoming a millionaire, Mr.
Professor Ewing used maieutic Wei renounced mammon and
dialogs to get students to think for malicious entered a monastery.
themselves.
malignancy mammonism
maim
malison mana
Mainer n
n / SmalEsEn / manacles
/ SmCnE(r) / L>F>E n pl
American geog name malediction, curse. / SmanDkElz /
a native or resident of Maine. Jared muttered one malison after L>F>E
The old Mainer tried his hand at another when he took a look at his something used as a restraint.
raising buffalo. algebra test grade. Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream”
speech delineated how many lives
mainprise malleation were still “sadly crippled by the
manacles of segregation and the
majestic Malthusian chains of discrimination.”
adj manageability
majorette / malSth(y)VzhEn / n
E name + Ecf / TmanijESbilEZG /
makeshift of or relating to doctrines holding L > It + Ecff
adj that population tends to increase at the quality or state of being capable
/ SmCkTshift / a faster rate than its means of of being managed or controlled.
E subsistence, resulting in poverty After shampooing her hair, Milly
serving as a temporary expedient. and degradation unless the applied a conditioner for
Until he could afford something population is checked by moral manageability.
better, Mr. Gray made makeshift restraint, disease, or war.
bookshelves out of boards and milk The candidate’s Malthusian mancinism
crates. suggestion that the epidemic was a
blessing in disguise was poorly mandala
malacology received by voters. n
/ SmEndElE /
maladroitly maltreat Skt
adv a graphic mystic symbol of the
/ TmalESdrOitlG / mamba universe that is typically in the
F + Ecf form of a circle enclosing a square
in a manner marked by a lack of mamelon and often bearing symmetrically
dexterity or skill : clumsily. arranged representations of deities
The driving instructor reached for mammalian and is used chiefly in Hinduism and
the wheel when his student Buddhism as an aid to meditation.
maladroitly steered the car onto the The lama took three days to
shoulder. construct an elaborate mandala
from colored sand and then
malapert destroyed it.
malar mandibular
malarial
malcontent
Page 159 of 289

mandir manifold manual
n adj
/ SmEnTdir / / SmanETfPld / manually
Skt > Hindi E
a Hindu temple. marked by diversity or variety : manufacture
The 900-year-old mandir at Angkor numerous and varied.
Wat is the object of a massive Andrew is intrigued by the manzanilla
restoration project that has lasted manifold opportunities in the field
several decades. of engineering. manzanita
n
mandlen manipuri / TmanzESnGZE /
n L > Sp
mandorla / TmanESpUrG / an evergreen tree or shrub of the
n Indian geog name Pacific coast of North America that
/ SmBndPrTlB / a dance form associated with the has a smooth bark, thick shiny
L > It Manipur region of northern India leaves, and edible red berries.
a panel or contour in the shape of and characterized by a gentle Steven took many photographs of
an almond. lyrical style. the large manzanita standing alone
At the top of the altarpiece Christ is Rajiv is writing his thesis on the on the windswept cliff.
depicted seated within a mandorla history of the manipuri.
full-face and holding a book. mapped
mankind
mane maquette
manometer
manes n marathon
n pl / mESnBmEZE(r) / n
/ SmBTnCs / Gk + Gk / SmarETthBn /
L an instrument for measuring the Gk geog name
the spirits of the dead and gods of pressure of gases and vapors. a footrace usually 26 miles 385
the lower world in ancient Roman Mr. Glazebrook used a manometer yards in length.
belief. to measure the densities of the Ernie’s goal is to become a
Roman household members were currents on either side of the successful long-distance runner
expected to call on the manes of partition. and win at least one big marathon.
their ancestors for comfort and
guidance in their daily lives. manor marathoner
n
mania / SmanE(r) / marcasite
n L>F>E
/ SmCnGE / [has homonym: manner] the house marcottage
Gk or hall of an estate : mansion. n
excessive or unreasonable The lord of the manor was a / SmBrTkBZij /
enthusiasm. gracious man, giving the servants L? > F
During half time at the Super Bowl, good food and plenty of time off. a form of plant propagation in
one sportscaster reported on the which the rooting medium is bound
mania of many of the fans. manse to the plant rather than enclosed in
a pot or other container.
maniac mantilla Philip’s nursery is widely known
n for its successful marcottage using
maniacally / manStG(y)E / sphagnum.
Sp
manicurist a light scarf often of black lace maremma
worn over the head and shoulders
especially by Spanish and Latin
American women.
Before leaving for church, Angela
covered her long black hair with a
lacy mantilla.
mantissa
Page 160 of 289

marginalia marmoraceous Martian
n pl adj
/ TmBrjESnClGE / marmorate / SmBrshEn /
L L
notes written in the border of a marmoration of or relating to the planet Mars or
page. n its hypothetical inhabitants.
Gordon was excited to find some / TmBrmESrCshEn / The Martian year is approximately
historically interesting marginalia L 687 Earth days.
in his great-grandfather’s law variegation resembling that of
books. marble : marbling. martin
The interior decorator showed n
marginality Jonathan how to use two colors of / SmBrtFn /
paint, a sponge, and a feather to F name
mariculture create marmoration. [has homonym: marten] a small
European swallow.
marigold marmot Although a martin is a small bird, it
n is often the terror of hawks, crows,
marigolds / SmBrmEt / and eagles.
n pl F
/ SmarETgPldz / a stout-bodied short-legged rodent martyrolatry
E name + E that has coarse fur, a short bushy
any of numerous yellow-flowered tail and very small ears, lives in martyrs
plants. burrows, and hibernates in winter. n pl
Paul planted a border of marigolds When sensing danger, the marmot / SmBrZErz /
around his vegetable garden. sits upright and gives an alarm Gk > L > E
whistle. those who sacrifice their life,
marimba station, or what is of great value for
maroon the sake of principle.
marinade Many early Christians became
n marque martyrs in the Roman Coliseum.
/ SmarETnCd / n
L > It / SmBrk / Marxist
a brine or pickle usually containing It > F adj
vinegar or wine, oil, spices, and a brand or make of a product—used / SmBrksDst /
herbs in which a food (as meat or especially of sports cars. G name
fish) is soaked to enrich its flavor. The car salesman made a face of, relating to, or having the
Elise added chili oil to the when Derek drove up in a coupe of characteristics of Karl Marx’s
marinade. a competing marque. doctrine based on the definition of
all value as being created by labor.
marinara marten Lenin was influenced by Marxist
n thought when he developed his
marinate / SmBrtFn / communist theory of government.
v Gmc > F > E
/ SmarETnCt / [has homonym: martin] any of mascot
L > It? several slender semiarboreal
[Note: Could be confused with carnivorous mammals chiefly of masochistic
marinade.] season (as meat or fish) the Northern Hemisphere that are adj
by steeping in a brine usually larger than the related weasels. / TmasESkistik /
containing vinegar or wine, oil, The marten is an opportunistic G name + Ecf
spices, and herbs. hunter, thriving on mice, squirrels, relating to, marked by, or given to
Becky will marinate the pork in rabbits, and grouse. taking pleasure in physical or
Italian dressing overnight for a mental suffering inflicted on one by
spicy effect. oneself or by another.
Runners have long endured
marionettes derisive comments from
nonrunners about their apparently
marital masochistic tendencies.
marlin
Page 161 of 289

massive matripotestal meaningful
adj adj
/ Smasiv / / TmatrGTpPStestFl / meanness
L>F>E L
weighty, heavy. of, relating to, or being the power meant
The Neanderthal’s massive, sturdy exercised by a matriarch.
limbs were much stronger than the Even the queen’s matripotestal meantime
Cro-Magnon’s. authority was not enough to save
the prince’s marriage. meanwhile
massotherapy
mature measure
masthead v
maud / SmezhE(r) /
matchbook L
maunder ascertain a unit quantity.
materfamilias v The class spent an entire hour
/ SmOndE(r) / trying to measure the Dawson
materialist L>F>E twins to see who was taller.
move or progress slowly and
materialize uncertainly without definite aim or mechanic
v course.
/ mEStirGETlIz / Ken and Barb maunder down the medalet
L + Ecf boulevard every Sunday.
come into actual existence : medevac
develop into something tangible. maxillae n
The skill of the artist was evident as n pl / SmeZD(T)vak /
the portrait began to materialize. / makSsilG / L+L
L emergency evacuation of the sick
materially the mouthparts posterior to the or wounded (as from a combat
mandibles in insects. area).
maternal In most insects the pair of maxillae During the simulated battle the
is used to manipulate the food. lieutenant called for medevac of his
matriculate platoon’s wounded soldiers.
v maxillary
/ mEStrikyETlCt / mediastinum
L maxixe
become admitted to membership in n mediator
a body, society, or institution (as a / mESshGsh(E) /
college or university) and have Pg medicaster
one’s name officially registered a ballroom dance of Brazilian
after having previously met origin roughly like the two-step. medicate
entrance requirements. The maxixe became a popular
Meredith received a letter inviting dance in Europe and the United mediocrity
her to matriculate at MIT. States in 1914.
meditate
matrifocal mazer v
adj / SmedETtCt /
/ TmatrESfPkEl / meadowwink L
L+L dwell in thought; especially :
gravitating toward or centered upon meagerness practice religious contemplation.
the mother. n Eileen likes to meditate in the
A matrifocal culture, for example, / SmGgE(r)nDs / chapel every morning before
is one where a newlywed couple is L > F > E + Ecf breakfast.
expected to move to the bride’s the quality or state of being small,
mother’s village. thin, or inadequate. medius
The meagerness of supporting
evidence rendered the politician’s medley
book and speeches unconvincing to
Albert.
Page 162 of 289

medusa meiobars melismatic
n n pl adj
/ mDd(y)VsE / / SmIETbBrz / / TmelDzSmaZik /
Gk Gk Gk
[Note: Could be confused with regions of low barometric pressure. relating to or having melodic
medusan.] a small hydrozoan On most weather maps, meiobars embellishment or ornamentation.
jellyfish. are indicated by the letter L. The chorus embroidered the
The medusa propels itself through anthem with melismatic lines.
the water by contracting its bell- meiosis
shaped body and ejecting water melittologist
from under the bell. Meistersinger n
n / TmelEStBlEjDst /
meekness / SmIstE(r)TsiNE(r) / Gk
G an entomologist specializing in the
meeting a member of a German guild in the study of bees.
15th and 16th centuries formed for It was a big breakthrough for the
megalopolitan the cultivation of poetry and music. melittologist who discovered how
Mr. Heinz can trace his family tree bees communicate with each other.
megathere back to a Bavarian Meistersinger
n born in 1498. melleous
/ SmegETthi(E)r / adj
Gk + Gk melange / SmelGEs /
a member of the genus L
Megatherium of ground sloths of melanocomous resembling or containing honey.
the Pliocene and Pleistocene The beekeeper cut a melleous
epochs. melanoma chunk of honeycomb from the hive
The movie Jurassic Park would n and put it in a jar.
have been much less exciting if the / TmelESnPmE /
scientists had cloned a megathere Gk > L melody
rather than giant reptiles. a malignant skin tumor that starts
as a black mole and metastasizes melon
megaton rapidly.
n People who have black moles are membranate
/ SmegETtEn / encouraged to check them
Gk + E regularly for signs of a melanoma. membrane
an explosive force equivalent to
that of a million tons of TNT. meld membranous
The latest military creation is a n adj
bomb that will deliver 1 megaton of / Smeld / / SmembrEnEs /
explosive force directly to the G L>F
target specified without any error [Note: The definition provided is thin, pliable, and often somewhat
whatsoever. not the one most commonly transparent.
associated with this word.] a card The dragonfly’s membranous wings
megrims or combination of cards that has seemed very delicate.
n pl scoring value in a game.
/ SmGgrDmz / After drawing a seventh ace in memoirs
F>E canasta, Lauren could hardly
low spirits : the blues. suppress her smile as she laid the memorize
Whenever Ben got the megrims, he meld down on the table. v
would play a recording of the / SmemETrIz /
William Tell Overture to revive his melichrous L
spirits. learn something in a manner that
meliorate can be remembered.
Camille used flashcards to
melis memorize the multiplication tables.
Page 163 of 289

menaced mercantilist merino
v adj n
/ SmenEst / / SmErkEnTtGlist / / mESrGTnP /
F>E L > It > F Sp
made a show of intention to harm : of or relating to the theory or [Note: Could be confused with
made a threatening gesture, practice of an economic system marina.] a fine wool and cotton
statement, or act against. intended to increase a nation’s yarn used for knitwear.
Rosemary watched as a blue jay power and especially monetary Darcy decided to use the leftover
and a stray cat menaced and wealth by a strict governmental skein of merino to knit a pair of
threatened each other in her back regulation of the entire national mittens.
yard. economy.
In pursuit of a “favorable balance merit
menacing of trade,” the mercantilist policy
put strict limits on imports of meritable
menald foreign goods.
meritorious
Menckenese mercaptan
n n meropia
/ TmeNkESnGz / / mErSkapTtan /
Amer name L>D>G mesa
the peculiarly vigorous racy any of a class of compounds that n
flamboyant and often caustic style are analogous to the alcohols and / SmCsE /
characteristic of the journalist H.L. phenols but contain sulfur instead L > Sp
Mencken. of oxygen and have very a usually isolated hill or mountain
It is difficult to read through a disagreeable odors. having abrupt or steeply sloping
daily paper without finding a A mercaptan is added to odorless sides and a level top.
feature writer who employs natural gas so that leaks can be The hikers planned to have their
Menckenese. detected. picnic on top of the faraway mesa.
menckenian mercerize mesentery

v n
mendelevium / SmErsETrIz / / SmesFnTterG /
E name + Ecf Gk
menhaden give (cotton yarn or cloth) luster, a membranous tissue or one of the
strength, and receptiveness to dyes membranes that envelop and
mensch by treatment under tension with support visceral organs (as the
caustic soda. intestines).
mental English cloth manufacturers began The mesentery attaches parts of the
to mercerize cotton in the 1860s. small intestine to the posterior wall
mentalist of the abdomen.
mercifully
menticide mesmerized
mercury v
mephitic / SmezmETrIzd /
meretricious Austrian name + Ecf
mercantile spellbound : hypnotized.
merfolk Tracy gazed at the screen saver,
mesmerized by the changing
meridienne patterns.
Page 164 of 289

mesomorph metacarpal meteor
n adj n
/ SmezPTmOrf / / meZESkBrpEl / / SmGZGE(r) /
Gk Gk + Gk Gk
an intermediate or average type of of or relating to the part of the hand [has homonym: meatier] a streak
human body. or forefoot between the wrist and of light in the night sky produced
Students classified the mummy as a the digits or fingers. by the passage through Earth’s
mesomorph. When the car door slammed shut atmosphere of one of the countless
on her hand, Sara suffered an small particles of solid matter in the
Mesopotamian injury to one of her metacarpal solar system.
adj bones. Hans accidentally captured a
/ TmesEpEStCmGEn / meteor on film as he was trying to
Gk metage take pictures of lightning.
of, relating to, or characteristic of n
Mesopotamia, a region between the / SmGZij / meteorologist
Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. E n
The Code of Hammurabi and the official measuring of contents / TmGZGESrBlEjDst /
Gilgamesh are famous or weight (as of coal or grain). Gk
Mesopotamian literary documents. Arrangements must be made with a specialist in a science that deals
respect to the metage of grain in with the atmosphere and its
mesotherm the port of London. phenomena.
Most television stations employ a
Mesozoic metallurgy meteorologist to deliver weather
adj n forecasts.
/ TmezESzPik / / SmeZFlTErjG /
Gk Gk > L metheglin
of or relating to a division of a science and technology that deals n
geological history that includes the with the extraction of metals from / mEStheglDn /
time between the Permian and the their ores, refining them, and W
Tertiary periods. preparing them for use and includes a beverage usually made of
Dinosaurs and evergreen trees processes and the study of the fermented honey and water and
arose during the Mesozoic era. structure and properties of metals. often spiced or medicated.
Several experts in metallurgy When Mr. Galen lost his voice,
messaline testified in the lawsuit regarding Glynnis said that a cup of her
the failure of welds at the steam metheglin might be just what he
messenger plant. needed.
mestizo metalworking methuselah

n
/ meSstG(T)zP / metamorphose meticulously
L > Sp v
a person whose ancestors belonged / TmeZESmPrTfPz / metrical
to two or more races. Gk > F?
The tour guide, a mestizo himself, change into a different physical metrology
spoke at length about the culture of form. n
his South American ancestors. The witch had a potion which could / mEStrBlEjG /
metamorphose a man into a mouse. Gk
metabolize the science of weights and
v metanoia measures.
/ mDStabETlIz / n Nobody as a child really plans a
Gk / TmeZESnOi(y)E / career in metrology; like
subject to the processes by which a Gk lexicography, it comes into one’s
particular substance is handled in a fundamental transformation of life by chance.
the living body. mind or character; specifically : a
Tooth decay results from the lactic spiritual conversion. metropolis
acid produced when bacteria After years of dissolute living,
metabolize sugar. Augustine experienced a metanoia
and became a leading
ecclesiastical figure.
Page 165 of 289

metropolitan microcircuitry midday
adj n
/ TmetrESpBlEtFn / microfilm / SmidTdC /
Gk E
of, relating to, or characteristic of microhmmeter noon.
an important city. n The clocktower bells chime every
One advantage of living in a / SmITkrPmTmGZE(r) / midday.
metropolitan area is the abundance Gk + G name + Gk
of cultural offerings. a sensitive ohmmeter for measuring midget
very small resistances.
miasmic In the physics lab Mr. McGurk mightily
demonstrated the use of a adv
micaceous microhmmeter to ascertain minute / SmIZFlG /
adj electrical resistances. E
/ mISkCshEs / in a powerful manner.
L micrometer The rebels triumphed mightily over
consisting of or containing any of a the dictator’s military forces.
group of minerals that crystallize in microns
monoclinic forms readily n pl mighty
separating into very thin leaves. / SmITkrBnz / adj
The class divided into small groups Gk / SmIZG /
to examine the micaceous minerals units of length, each equal to 0.001 E
under the microscope. millimeter or about 0.000039 inch. having or wielding great power or
A human hair is about 100 microns authority.
Micawberish thick. Will fancied himself one of the
adj more mighty and well-heeled men
/ mDSkOb(E)rish / microphakia in town.
E name n
being habitually expectant of an / TmIkrPSfCkGE / migrate
upturn in one's fortunes. Gk v
True to his Micawberish nature, abnormal smallness of the lens of / SmITgrCt /
Buddy spent his last dollar on a the eye. L
lottery ticket. Mr. Hurst’s vision is somewhat pass periodically from one region
impaired by his microphakia. or climate to another for feeding or
Michigander breeding.
n microphone Some birds migrate south to find
/ TmishESgandE(r) / n warmer weather during winter.
Algonquian + E / SmIkrETfPn /
a native or resident of Michigan. Gk + Gk migratory
Jack called himself a an instrument whereby sound adj
“Michigander” with a note of pride waves are caused to generate or / SmIgrETtPrG /
in his voice. modulate an electric current usually L
for the purpose of transmitting or marked by periodic movement
microbial recording sound (as speech or from one region or climate to
music). another.
microburst Each of the principal singers has a The migratory monarch butterflies
n cordless microphone attached to travel long distances southward in
/ SmIkrPTbErst / his or her costume. the fall, and those that survive
Gk + E return in the spring.
a violent short-lived localized microscopic
downdraft that creates extreme adj
wind shears at low altitudes that is / TmIkrESskBpik /
usually associated with Gk + Gk + Ecf
thunderstorms. invisible without the use of a
A microburst causes a condition magnification device.
known as “wind shear,” a quick The crime lab technician found
change in the wind’s speed or microscopic traces of blood on
direction. Wolfgang’s shoelaces.
Page 166 of 289

mihrab mimetic minium
n adj
/ SmGrEb / / mDSmeZik / minnow
Ar Gk
a niche or chamber in a mosque characterized by or exhibiting a minstrels
indicating the direction of Mecca superficial resemblance to other n pl
and usually containing a copy of organisms or to natural objects and / Smin(t)strElz /
the Koran. thereby securing concealment, L>F>E
A rich mosaic decorates the mihrab protection, or some other professional musical entertainers of
of the mosque that Mahmoud advantage. a kind originating in medieval
attends. A butterfly’s mimetic coloration times.
protects it against many predators. Off to one side a group of minstrels
mileage sang songs that delighted both the
mimetically young and old.
milieu
mimicked minute
milinch n
mimotype / SminDt /
militarize L
minareted a unit of time equal to the 60th part
miljee adj of an hour and containing 60
/ TminESreZDd / seconds.
milkman Ar > Turk > F Mary believes she could have
having or characterized by a finished all the exam questions if
milliampere slender lofty tower such as that she had had one more minute to
attached to a mosque. work.
millibars The outline of a large minareted
n pl palace appeared as the train minyan
/ SmilETbBrz / approached Istanbul. n
L > ISV + Gk > ISV / SminyEn /
units of atmospheric pressure, each minefield Heb
equal to 0.001 bar or 1,000 dynes [Word has homonym: minion.
per square centimeter. miniaceous Also, word might be confused with
A record low pressure of 870 mignon.] the number of
millibars was measured in the eye minim participants necessary for
of a typhoon near Guam in October n conducting Jewish public worship,
1979. / SminDm / defined by the rules of Mishnah as
L not fewer than ten males above the
millicurie a U.S. unit of liquid capacity age of 13.
equivalent to 0.003759 cubic inch. Until Mr. Green arrived at the
milline Ms. Brock told us to add a minim of synagogue, not enough people were
reactant to our acid solution, but present to constitute a minyan.
Miltonic she didn’t tell us how to measure it
adj out. miombo
/ milStBnik / n
E name minimum / mISBm(T)bP /
characteristic of or relating to the E Afr name
English poet John Milton or his minion a sparse open deciduous woodland
work. n characteristic of dry parts of eastern
A reading of those critics who have / SminyEn / Africa.
attempted an analysis of the Celt? > F The Oyondi family lived near a
Miltonic simile reveals a complete [has homonym and near homonym: small grove in the miombo, where
and far-reaching difference of minyan and mignon] an obsequious there was some shade from the hot
opinion. or servile dependent. sunshine.
The candidate’s most devoted
minion has high hopes of being
offered a prominent cabinet post.
minister
Page 167 of 289

mirages Mississippian mnemonically
n pl n adv
/ mDSrBzhDz / / TmisESsipGEn / / nGSmBnDk(E)lG /
L>F E name Gk + Ecff
optical phenomena that are often a native or resident of Mississippi. in a manner assisting or intended to
observed on still days over deserts As a native Mississippian, Drew assist memory.
or hot pavements and that have the thought he had an obligation to The word homes is often used
mirrorlike appearance of a quiet defend his state. mnemonically to name the Great
lake or pool in which distant Lakes.
objects are seen inverted by misspell
reflection though usually distorted. mobile
Janet explained that mirages are misspelling
illusions, which are not real. n moccasin
/ mi(s)SspeliN /
mirth E + Gmc > F > E + Ecf moch
an incorrect sequence of letters
mirthful composing a word. modern
adj Mr. Sommerstein was willing to
/ SmErthfEl / overlook the occasional misspelling modernization
E + Ecf or silly mistake, but he could not
full of gladness or gaiety. tolerate comma splices. modify
The stand-up comedian quickly put
his audience in a mirthful mood. misstatement modulation
n
miscegenation / mi(s)SstCtmEnt / modulo
Ecf + L > F > E + Ecf prep
misconception a false or incorrect declaration or / SmBjETlP /
n remark. L
/ miskEnSsepshEn / Jessie stands by her claim that her with respect to a number that
E+L misstatement was unintentional. divides the difference of two other
a wrong or inaccurate thought, numbers without leaving a
idea, or notion. misstep remainder.
That a cactus plant never needs n Betsy’s date calculation program
water is a misconception. / Smisstep / uses modulo seven arithmetic.
E
misconstrued a wrong step. moist
Higher and higher they climbed up
miscreants frightful crumbling cliffs and along molar
desperately narrow ledges where a adj
miser single misstep meant only “good- / SmPlE(r) /
by.” L
miserabilism mistiness [has homonym: moler] containing
n 6.023 x 10 to the 23rd power
misery / SmistGnDs / molecules of solute in one liter of
E solution.
mishap the quality or state of being To make 3.40 molar potassium
obscured by or covered with water nitrate, Eileen put 3.40 moles of
misinterpreted in the form of particles suspended potassium nitrate into one liter of
in the atmosphere. the solution.
misogamist A heavy mistiness hung in the
n valley and obscured the mountains. molehill
/ mDSsBgEmDst /
Gk mitomycin
one who hates marriage.
Ben explained that although he mitosis
enjoys being a bachelor, he is not a
misogamist. mixture
missal mizzenmast
Page 168 of 289

moline monoceros Montessorian
adj adj
/ SmPlDn / monochromat / TmBntESsPrGEn /
L > F > AF It name
(of a cross) having the end of each monofilament of, following, or relating to a
arm forked and recurved. system for training young children
There are twelve families of millers monogram emphasizing free physical activity,
who bear crosses moline on their informal and individual instruction,
family crests. monolater early development of writing and
reading, and extended sensory
mollycoddle monolithic motor training.
The Montessorian learning
moloch monophagous environment contains materials for
all levels of children’s readiness.
molybdenite monoplegia
monticle
momentary monopolization
n monture
monandry / mETnBpElDSzCshEn / n
Gk / SmBnchE(r) /
monarchically the quality or state of having or F
getting exclusive ownership or a frame or setting especially for a
monastic control through legal privilege, jewel.
adj command of supply, or group The diamond’s monture was
/ mESnastik / action. platinum, but the band was gold.
Gk > L The corporation was prosecuted for
secluded from earthly concerns and participating in a conspiracy for monument
devoted to religion. the purposes of restraint of trade
Though many people enjoy a and monopolization. monumental
period of retreat from materialism adj
and worldliness, real commitment monoprint / TmBnyESmentFl /
to a monastic life is rare. L
monorail having impressive bulk or size.
monaural The entrance to the library was
adj monostich flanked by monumental statues of
/ mBnSOrEl / lions.
L monosyllable
of, relating to, affecting, or moonlet
designed for use with one ear. monsieur n
Tom’s doctor referred him to a / SmVnlDt /
specialist to have his monaural and monster E
binaural hearing tested. [has near homonym: moonlit] a
monte small natural or artificial satellite of
moneyless n Earth or of another celestial body.
/ SmBntG / Each particle in the rings of Saturn
moniliform L > It > Sp is a moonlet.
a card game in which players select
monition any two of four cards faced in a mooring
layout and bet that one of them will
monitory be matched before the other as moquette
adj cards are dealt one at a time from
/ SmBnETtPrG / the pack. moral
L On the long bus trip Olivia taught
giving a friendly reproof, warning, her little sister how to play monte. morale
or reminder.
Randall spoke gently to his nephew, morcellation
but the monitory tone was
unmistakable. mordant
Page 169 of 289

morganite n
/ TmO(r)ZEfDSkCshEn / movimento
Mormon L
adj a sense of humiliation and shame moxie
/ SmOrmEn / caused by something that wounds
name of a book one’s pride or self-respect. Mozarabic
of or relating to members of the Sandy’s low test score filled him adj
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- with mortification. / mPSzarEbik /
day Saints. Ar > Sp
Mormon houses often have enough mosaicism of, relating to, or used by Spanish
preserved food in them to feed an Christians in the period of Muslim
army. moselle domination of Spain.
The talk on Mozarabic poetry at
Mornay moss seven o’clock interfered with
n Mica’s dinner plans.
/ TmOrSnC / moth
F name? muckraking
[has homonym: morné] a cheese- motherly n
flavored cream sauce. / SmEkTrCkiN /
Mornay can be served with seafood motif E
or vegetables. the action or practice of
motile investigating with the purpose of
morpheme digging up scandal.
n motitation Uncle Woody accused the
/ SmOrTfGm / n candidate for mayor of engaging in
Gk > F / TmPZEStCshEn / muckraking as a substitute for
a meaningful linguistic unit that L proposing an intelligent policy.
contains no smaller meaningful a quivering movement.
parts. Laurie could tell by the motitation mucronate
One morpheme that carries of her brother’s lower lip that he
meaning but does not stand on its was about to start sobbing. muddledom
own is the plural ending -s.
motivate muishond
mortadella n
n motive / SmIsThBnt /
/ TmO(r)ZESdelE / D > Afrikaans
L > It motto either of two southern African
a smoked sausage made of chopped n weasels that emit a fetid odor when
beef, pork, and pork fat and / SmBZ(T)P / disturbed.
seasoned with pepper and garlic. L > It Within two yards of his foot, Jerry
Barbara made a sandwich of a short suggestive expression of a saw a striped muishond with its two
Italian bread, provolone cheese, guiding principle. front feet firmly planted on a black
and sliced mortadella. Elaine’s personal motto is cobra.
“Fortune favors the bold.”
mortally moue mule
n
mortiferous mountebankery / SmyVl /
adj L>F
/ mO(r)Stif(E)rEs / mourning [Note: The definition provided is
L+L v not the one most commonly
deadly, fatal. / SmP(E)rniN / associated with this word. In
In the 14th century the mortiferous E addition, word has homonym:
black death wiped out about a third [has homonym: morning] feeling mewl.] a shoe or house slipper
of the population of Europe. sorrow or grief for. without quarter and often with a
Jacob was mourning the loss of his low heel.
turtle until a neighbor found it and As Dorothy was about to thrust her
returned it to him. foot into the velvet mule, she
noticed a tear in her stocking.
mortification movie
Page 170 of 289

multiloquence Muses mustiness
n pl n
multiphyletic / SmyVzDz / / SmEstGnDs /
Gk > L > F > E F + Ecff
multiple [has homonym: meuses] the nine the quality or state of smelling of
sister goddesses associated with the damp and decay.
multiply Graces in Greek mythology and Todd found the basement’s
v regarded as presiding over learning mustiness too much to bear.
/ SmEltETplI / and the creative arts (as poetry and
L music). mutagenic
increase in number especially The Muses gave the poet his song
greatly or in multiples. and sang it through his lips. mutagenicity
Before the printing press there was n
no way to multiply an original musette / TmyVZEjESnisEZG /
manuscript except by handwritten L + Gk
copies. musket the capacity to induce mutations.
The newly developed artificial
multivious musketeer sweetener was studied for evidence
of mutagenicity.
mummify muskrat
v n mutation
/ SmEmETfI / / SmETskrat / n
Per > L > E + Ecf Algonquian? / myVStCshEn /
make into or like a mummy. an abundant aquatic rodent found L>F>E
Ancient Egyptian embalmers used throughout the United States and an often abrupt major change.
resin and linen strips to mummify Canada living in holes in the banks The appearance of spots marked a
their subjects. of ponds or streams. mutation in the plant species.
Gloria shrieked as the muskrat
mundane sank its teeth into her ankle. mutely
adv
mundungus mustang / SmyVtlG /
n n L > F > E + Ecf
/ TmEnSdENgEs / / SmETstaN / in a manner characterized by the
Sp L > Sp inability to speak.
tobacco having an offensive smell. the small hardy naturalized horse of Nino sat by mutely as we conversed
Hank preferred his own blend of the western plains directly in the parlor.
mundungus and refused to try any descended from horses brought in
other. by the Spaniards. mutineer
Veronica’s father explained that a n
munificent wild mustang would not be a good / TmyVtFnSiE(r) /
house pet. L>F
murder one that refuses to obey or observe
Mustelidae authority.
murderer n pl The sailors protested that the very
n / TmESstelETdG / person who was accusing them was
/ SmErdErEr / L the ringleader and chief mutineer.
E a large family of rather small lithe
one who commits the crime of active carnivorous mammals mutiny
unlawfully killing a person including many important n
especially with malice furbearers and some destructive / SmyVt(F)nG /
aforethought. predators and varying greatly from L>F
The convicted murderer continued the weasel to the wolverine. insurrection against or willful
to claim that he acted in self- Karen thinks that of all the refusal to obey constituted,
defense. Mustelidae, the otter is the most recognized, or traditional authority.
fascinating to watch. Captain Bligh, unable to suppress
murmuration the mutiny, was set adrift in a
musteline rowboat.
Page 171 of 289

muzzle myrmidons myxovirus
n n
/ SmEzEl / myrtle / TmiksESvIrEs /
L>F>E Gk + L
the projecting jaws and nose of an mystic any of a group of rather large
animal : snout. adj RNA-containing viruses that
Sam’s dog was always poking its / Smistik / includes the influenza viruses.
muzzle into everything. Gk Upon returning from the
baffling or incomprehensible to the pediatrician’s office, Kelly
mycetismus understanding. frightened her father by
n Reason cannot traverse the mystic announcing that she had a
/ TmIsEStizmEs / gulf between god and man. myxovirus.
Gk
mushroom poisoning. mystify nadiral
In the Babar series of children’s
books, Babar succeeds the King of mytacism nagging
the Elephants, who has died from a
case of mycetismus. myth nahcolite
n
mycophile / Smith / naillike
Gk
mydriatic a traditional story that is usually of naivete
unknown origin and that serves to
myeloma explain some practice, belief, nanization
n institution, or natural phenomenon.
/ TmIESlPmE / The Greek myth about Persephone nanogram
Gk explains the coming of winter
a primary tumor of the bone weather. naphtha
marrow. n
A combination of radiation and mythopoeia / SnafJE /
drugs is being used to treat Carla’s Iranian > Gk
myeloma. mythopoeic any of various volatile often
adj flammable liquid hydrocarbon
myosin / TmithESpGik / mixtures used chiefly as solvents
Gk + Ecf and diluents and as raw materials
myotonia creating or tending to create myth for conversion to gasoline.
n or myths. On the fractionation column used
/ TmIEStPnGE / Mythopoeic humans attempted to for separating the components of
Gk explain natural phenomena, such crude oil, naphtha lies between
tonic spasm of one or more as the rising and setting of the sun. gasoline and kerosene.
muscles; also : a condition
characterized by such spasms. myths naphthalated
The crash victim will be kept in the adj
emergency room until the doctors myxomatosis / SnafthETlCZDd /
know what is causing the myotonia. n Iranian > Gk > L
/ mikTsPmEStPsDs / cleaned with solvents to preserve
myriacanthous Gk strength and resiliency.
adj a severe virus disease of rabbits Peggy had her wool coat
/ TmirGESkan(t)thEs / that is marked by fever and naphthalated for the coming winter
Gk subcutaneous tumors, is transmitted season.
having numerous spines or by mosquitoes, and has been used
prickles. in biological control of rabbits in naphthalene
The prickly pear is Tina’s favorite plague areas.
myriacanthous plant. The warren of rabbits was naphthalenic
decimated by an outbreak of
myriad myxomatosis.
myringa
Page 172 of 289

naphthene narrator navicella
n
/ SnafTthGn / nasaump navicular
Iranian > Gk + ISV adj
any of a series of saturated cyclic nasute / nESvikyElE(r) /
hydrocarbons that occur in various adj L + Ecf
kinds of petroleum, in shale, and in / nCSsVt / [Note: Could be confused with
tar oil. L navicula.] resembling or having the
Naphthene is an important part of having a well-developed proboscis. shape of a boat.
all liquid refinery products. For Halloween, Emma wore a While discussing the skeletal
nasute rubber mask and large ears system, Mr. Gray called the
napkin made of gray felt. students’ attention to a small
navicular bone in the wrist.
napoleon national
n navigate
/ nESpPlyEn / nativistic
F name adj navigator
a man’s high boot worn especially / TnCZDSvistik /
in the 19th century. L > F > E + Ecff naysay
The artist asked the huntsman to of, being, or having the
wear a black napoleon as his boot characteristics of a movement neap
for the painting. advocating the perpetuation of
native cultural traits and a removal Neapolitan
naprapath of foreign culture elements. adj
The group’s nativistic efforts / TnGESpBlEtFn /
narcissism included the renunciation of the use Gk > L
n of electricity and fossil fuels. of, relating to, or characteristic of
/ SnBrsETsizEm / Naples, Italy, or its residents.
Gk name > L natte Merri enjoys going to an Italian
overevaluation of one’s own restaurant where the waiters sing
attributes or achievements or of naturally Neapolitan folk songs.
those of one’s own group.
The once successful politician fell naught nebbish
victim to narcissism and eventually
became less effective. naughty nebulosity
n
narcissist naumachia / TnebyESlBsEZG /
n L
narcohypnia / nOSmCkGE / the quality or state of being
Gk unclear, hazy, or indistinct.
narial an ancient Roman spectacle The author’s nebulosity invited
adj representing a naval battle. several different interpretations of
/ Sna(a)rGEl / To celebrate the naval victory the his work.
L emperor ordered an elaborate
of or relating to the nostrils. naumachia. necessitous
There are several different sorts of
septa, but perhaps the best known nauseously necessity
is the narial septum.
navel nectarivorous
naris n adj
n / SnCvEl / / TnektESriv(E)rEs /
/ Sna(a)rDs / E Gk > L + L
L [has homonym: naval] a mark or feeding on nectar.
the opening of the nose or nasal depression in the middle of the Samantha’s colorful flower garden
cavity of a vertebrate. abdomen, marking the point of attracts many nectarivorous birds
The biology book had an attachment of the umbilical cord. and insects.
illustration showing how a naris is John asked his religion teacher
connected to the throat by a whether Adam had a navel. needlecraft
passageway.
Page 173 of 289

nefandous neoterism neritic
n adj
nefariously / nGSBZETrizEm / / nDSriZik /
Gk Gk > L > ISV
negligence a newly invented word or phrase. of, relating to, or constituting the
Cineplex is a neoterism recently belt or region of shallow water
negotiability added to the dictionary. adjoining the seacoast and usually
n considered to extend from low-tide
/ nDTgPsh(G)ESbilEZG / nephritic mark to a depth of 100 fathoms.
L adj The neritic zone is home to a large
the quality or state of being / nDSfriZik / number of species such as corals,
successfully traversed or otherwise Gk oysters, and algae.
successfully managed. arising from, originating in, or
Department of Transportation affecting the kidneys. Neronian
officials explained that road Al’s nephritic inflammation adj
design, negotiability of curves, and alarmed the doctor. / nDSrPnGEn /
other factors determine speed L name
limits. nephritis of or relating to the Roman
emperor Nero or his times.
neighborly nephrolith Neronian rule was marked by
n tyranny.
neither / SnefrETlith /
Gk + Gk nervy
neoclassicist a kidney stone.
Physicians can now disintegrate a nestle
neodymium nephrolith by shock waves.
netherworld
neonatal nephrolithotomy
n netsuke
neoned / TnefrElDSthBZEmG / n
adj Gk + Gk + Gk / SnetskG /
/ SnGTBnd / the surgical operation of removing Jpn
Gk + Ecf a solid concretion from the kidney. a small object carved in wood or
of, equipped with, or lighted by Mr. Case regrets that a ivory or wrought in metal, pierced
neon lamps. nephrolithotomy rather than shock- with holes, and used by the
The museum installation was wave therapy is the necessary Japanese as a toggle to fasten a
neoned, which produced an eery treatment for his kidney stones. small pouch or purse to the kimono
bluish-white glow. sash.
neptunium Hiroko cherished her
neophiliac grandmother’s ivory netsuke.
n Nereid
/ TnGPSfilGTak / n neurasthenia
Gk / SnirGDd /
one who has a love of or Gk name neurergic
enthusiasm for what is new or an often malevolent nymph of
novel. Greek folklore dwelling in springs neuritis
A true neophiliac, Vince visits trade or trees as well as in the sea.
shows at every opportunity. In the adventure movie set in neuroticism
Atlantis, one Nereid after another n
neoprene swam by as the film began. / n(y)VSrBZETsizEm /
n Gk > L
/ SnGETprGn / a condition, character, or trait
Gk + ISV related to nervous dysfunction.
a synthetic rubber characterized by The critic observed that narcissism
resistance to the elements. and neuroticism are the trademarks
To waterski on the chilly lake, of many TV sitcoms.
Susan and Ed wore wetsuits made
of neoprene.
Page 174 of 289

neurotogenic nibble ninnyish
adj v
/ n(y)VTrBZESjenik / / SnibEl / ninth
Gk + Gk unknown
tending to produce a functional bite lightly. niobium
disorder of the central nervous Deer nibble on the leaves of plants. n
system usually manifested by / nISPbGEm /
anxiety, phobias, obsessions, or nibbling Gk name > L
compulsions. a platinum-gray ductile metallic
Abby is being treated for niccolite element that occurs combined in
neurotogenic problems resulting various rare minerals but almost
from interpersonal conflicts. nickel always is associated with tantalum
and that is used in alloys to inhibit
neutrino nickname corrosion.
n Niobium is a hypoallergenic metal
/ n(y)VStrG(T)nP / nicotine used in many items such as
L > It artificial joints, dental implants,
an uncharged elementary particle nidulation and the posts of pierced earrings.
that comes in two forms associated n
respectively with the electron and / TnijESlCshEn / nirvana
the muon. L n
The neutrino is the most nest-building. / nirSvBnE /
penetrating of the subatomic Carla is writing a book on varieties Skt
particles. of nidulation among small a place or state of rest, harmony, or
mammals. pleasure.
newfangled Fiona’s idea of nirvana is a
nighttime weekend at her lakeside cabin.
newlywed
nihilistic nitrogation
newscaster
nimble nitrogenous
newsworthy adj
nimbostratus / nIStrBjEnEs /
newton n Gk > L > F
n / Tnim(T)bPSstrCZEs / of, relating to, or containing
/ Sn(y)VtFn / L nitrogen in combined form (as in
E name a low dark gray rainy cloud layer. nitrates or proteins).
the unit of force in the meter- The day was dreary with the Every year farmers add
kilogram-second system of nimbostratus blocking the rays of nitrogenous fertilizers to the soil
physical units that is of such size the Sun completely. for better crop production.
that under its influence a body
whose mass is 1 kilogram would nimbus noblest
experience an acceleration of 1 n
meter per second per second. / SnimbEs / noctambulous
Monica learned that 1 newton L
equals 100,000 dynes. a luminous vapor, cloud, or noctilucent
atmosphere about a god or goddess adj
Newtonian when on Earth. / TnBktESlVsFnt /
adj Detecting a nimbus about the L
/ n(y)VStPnGEn / stranger, Sir Sidney treated her visible or glowing at night.
E name with extraordinary deference. Noctilucent clouds are thin sheets
of, relating to, or following Sir of ice crystals that form so high
Isaac Newton, his discoveries, or nineteen that the Sun can illuminate them at
doctrines. adj night when it is well below the
Perhaps the best known Newtonian / nInStGn / horizon.
discovery is his theory of E
gravitation. being one more than 18 in number.
Nineteen years is a long life for a
cat.
Page 175 of 289

noctilucous noncombatant nonrepatriable
adj adj
/ TnBktESlVkEs / / TnBnkEmSbatFnt / nonvolatile
L L adj
shining at night : phosphorescent. not usually engaged in or assigned / TnBnSvBlEZFl /
The noctilucous algae turned the to duties that directly forward L>F>E
stream into a shining path through conflict or controversy. not readily becoming a vapor at a
the trees. The red cross on the side of the relatively low temperature.
panel truck signaled that it was a Meteoric matter provides much
noctovision noncombatant vehicle. information about the abundance of
nonvolatile elements in space.
nodular nonentity
n noodledom
noisette / TnBnSentEZG /
L noosphere
noisy a person who is totally n
undistinguished or unimpressive in / SnPETsfi(E)r /
nomadic mind, character, or achievement : Gk
one of small or mediocre talents. the realm of human consciousness
nominalism For years treated as a nonentity by and mental activity especially in
recording companies, the singer regard to its influence on the
nominate now has a hit single and is well on biosphere and in relation to
the road to fame. evolution.
nomocracy Professor Morrison gave his
n nonexistent theoretical biology class a timeline
/ nPSmBkrEsG / adj of the history of the noosphere.
Gk / TnBnigSzistEnt /
government in accordance with a L Nordic
system of law. not having the state common to adj
Several Middle Eastern countries physical objects, living beings, / SnOrdik /
are governed according to Muslim objects of thought, and anything F
nomocracy. else. of or relating to the Germanic
The map is so old that some of the peoples of northern Europe.
nomographer indicated landmarks are now The Nordic languages, especially
n nonexistent. Old Norse, borrowed important
/ nPSmBgrEfE(r) / words from Anglo-Saxon.
Gk nonfeasance
a writer of laws. normal
During his term as a state senator, nonnative
Wilbur became an experienced adj Norwegian
nomographer. / TnBnSnCZiv / adj
L / nO(r)SwGjEn /
nonchalantly not born in the place or region to L geog name
adv which reference is had. of, relating to, or characteristic of
/ TnBnshESlBntlG / Metropolitan areas typically have Norway.
L>F relatively large proportions of Paul bought a pound of Norwegian
with an air of jaunty unconcern or nonnative population. smoked salmon.
indifference.
Ron’s cat lay nonchalantly in the nonnuclear nosegay
most highly trafficked area of his adj n
house. / TnBnSn(y)VklGE(r) / / SnPzTgC /
Ecf + L > F E+E
nonchitinous not involving the use of atom a small bunch of flowers suitable to
bombs : conventional. be worn on the person.
General Williams believes that the As the princess entered the theater,
worst kind of nonnuclear war is a small child in a colorful peasant
preferable to the mildest nuclear costume offered her a nosegay.
war.
nosography
Page 176 of 289

Nostradamus novelist nucleolus
n n n
/ TnBstrESdCmEs / / SnBvElDst / / n(y)VSklGElEs /
F name L L
one professing to foretell future a writer of prose narratives of a spherical body in a cell nucleus
events. considerable length and a certain that is associated with a specific
Wally consulted the local complexity that deal imaginatively part of a chromosome and contains
Nostradamus for football with human experience through a much ribosomal RNA.
predictions. connected sequence of events The nucleolus is that part of the
involving a group of persons in a cell in which protein-producing
notacanthous specific setting. ribosomes are formed.
adj As a novelist, Margaret specializes
/ TnPZESkan(t)Jes / in science-fiction stories. nucleus
Gk
having spines on the back. novelistic nudicaulous
Paleontologists have found adj adj
evidence that some dinosaurs were / TnBvESlistik / / Tn(y)VdESkOlEs /
notacanthous. L > F > E + Ecff L
of, relating to, or characteristic of a having leafless stems.
notch long prose narrative that usually Nudicaulous glassworts are plants
portrays imaginative characters and common in tidal marshes.
noticeable events.
adj Sandy preferred reading novelistic nullify
/ SnPZDsEbEl / fiction over the short-story form.
L + Ecff numen
likely to attract attention : novena
conspicuous. numerical
The bank teller reported that the novenary
only really noticeable thing about adj numismatics
the robber was his tiny mustache. / SnBvETnerG / n pl
L / Tn(y)VmEzSmaZiks /
notify of or relating to the number nine : Gk > F > L
based on the number nine. the study of coins, tokens, medals,
notochordal Mischievous Buttons did not attain paper money, and objects closely
the novenary life expectation resembling them in form or
notornis associated with her species. purpose.
An individual well known in the
notturno novillero field of numismatics gave a lecture
n on wampum to the class in Native
nougatine / TnPvGSye(E)(T)rP / American history.
Sp
nourishing a bullfighter aspiring to become a nuptial
adj matador.
/ SnErishiN / All summer the novillero practiced nuque
L > F > E + Ecf in the pasture with young bulls.
nutritious. nursery
Fresh fruits and vegetables are nowhere
thought to be more nourishing than nurturance
canned fruits and vegetables. nozzle n
/ SnErchErEn(t)s /
nourishment nuances L
affectionate care and attention.
nouveau Children who receive adequate
nurturance often are friendly and
novachord outgoing.
novelese
Page 177 of 289

nutate obduced obliterable
v v adj
/ Sn(y)VTtCt / / BbSd(y)Vst / / ESbliZErEbEl /
L L L
wobble so as to cause a small covered : enveloped. capable of being removed from
irregularity in the precession of the Melanie saw that the cells were existence or destroyed.
equinoxes. obduced by a thin membrane. Fortunately, the actor’s flubbed
The plane of the Moon’s orbit lines were obliterable from the
around Earth is tilted by about 5 obduracy videotape.
degrees, causing Earth to nutate.
obedience oblivescence
nutcracker
obediential oblivionize
nuthatch v
n obeliscal / ESblivGETnIz /
/ SnEtThach / L>E
E obelus relegate to a state of being
a small bird that creeps over the forgotten.
trunk and branches of trees and has obey Larry wondered if hypnosis might
habits similar to those of the help him oblivionize his feelings for
titmouse and creeper. obituarist his former girlfriend.
The tiny bird crawling headfirst n
down the tree is probably a / TPSbichETwerDst / oblong
nuthatch. L + Ecf
the writer of a record or notice of a obnoxiously
nutmeg person's death.
The obituarist composed a obnubilate
nutria balanced assessment of the artist’s v
n achievements. / BbSn(y)VbETlCt /
/ Sn(y)VtrGE / L
L > Sp objectivity cover or obscure by or as if by
the fur of an aquatic water rodent clouds : becloud.
that is treated to resemble beaver. objurgate Strong emotions can often
While windowshopping Lorene obnubilate sound reasoning.
stopped to look at a set of earmuffs oblast
made from nutria. n oboe
/ SBTblAst / n
nutritious OSlav > Russ / SPbP /
a governmental subdivision of the F
nyctinasty former USSR corresponding to an a wooden double-reed wind
autonomous province or state. instrument.
nylon Krasnoyarsk Province is a large Tommy introduced his mother to
oblast in central Russia. his friend who played the oboe in
oafish the orchestra.
oblation
oafishly obscure
obliged adj
oath adj / EbzSkyU(E)r /
n / ESblIjd / L>F>E
/ SPth / L>F>E not readily understood.
E constrained by physical, moral, or The idea the paragraph was trying
a usually formal affirmation made legal force. to convey was expressed in an
solemn by being coupled with the Calvin will feel obliged to behave unnecessarily obscure way.
invocation of something viewed as ethically even if he does not sign
sacred. the honor code.
Deirdre made Tom take an oath of
silence before telling him her
secret.
Page 178 of 289

obsequity obvelation octahedron
n n n
/ EbSsekwEZG / / TBbvESlCshEn / / TBktEShGdrEn /
L L Gk
the quality or state of being [Note: Could be confused with a solid bounded by eight plane
compliant to excess. obligation.] an act or instance of faces.
The server waited on the diners covering with or as if with a veil : Tanya bought a music box in the
with great obsequity. concealment. form of an octahedron for her new
A prophecy is often an obvelation grandson.
obsequy as well as a revelation.
octameter
observatory Occident
n n octarchy
/ EbSzErvETtPrG / / SBksEdEnt /
L L octogenary
a building or place given over to or regions or countries lying to the
equipped for observation of natural west of a specified or implied point octopodous
phenomena. of orientation.
Slowly, the roof of the observatory Jane knows where “the Orient” is, oddity
opened to afford a clear view for but she has not heard the term
the great reflecting telescope Occident. odiferous
within. adj
occupancy / PSdif(E)rEs /
obsessional n L>E
/ SBkyEpEnsG / having a strong gamy often acrid
obsidional L>F smell.
the condition of residing in a Mahmud stood in a doorway as the
obtestation building as an owner or tenant. long odiferous line of camels
The contractor promised the passed by.
obtrude owners that their house would be
ready for occupancy in two more odontalgic
obtruncate weeks.
v odori
/ BbStrENTkCt / occupation n
L / PSdPrTG /
cut the head or top from. occupied Jpn
George’s decision to obtruncate the any lively Japanese folk or theater
pin oak might be bad for the tree in oceanfront dance characterized by rapid
the long run. footwork.
oceanodromous The dancers in the odori were
obturator extraordinarily light on their feet.
n oceanography
/ SBbt(y)ETrCZE(r) / n odoriferous
L / TPshESnBgrEfG / adj
a device for preventing the escape Gk / PdESrif(E)rEs /
of gas through the breech a science that deals with the whole L
mechanism of a breech-loading body of salt water that covers bearing or yielding an odor.
gun. nearly three-fourths of the surface Perfumes are composed of solvents,
A faulty obturator was the cause of of the globe. fixatives, and odoriferous elements.
the backfire from the Civil War Recent advances in oceanography
reenactor’s gun. include the use of electronic echo odorless
sounders to monitor the structure
obtuse and movement of currents. oenomel
obtusely ochlocracy oenophilist
obvallate ochronosis
octagon
Page 179 of 289

oersted Ogygian olid
n adj adj
/ SErTsted / / PSjijGEn / / SBlDd /
Dan name Gk name L
the centimeter-gram-second ancient, primeval. having a strong disagreeable smell.
electromagnetic unit of magnetic The sailors found the uncharted An olid sticky liquid was seeping
intensity equal to the intensity of a island in an Ogygian state of from under the door of the
magnetic field in a vacuum in wilderness. cloakroom.
which a unit magnetic pole
experiences a mechanical force of 1 ohmmeter oligemia
dyne in the direction of the field. n adj
The oersted is used to measure / SP(m)TmGZE(r) / / TBlESgGmGE /
magnetic induction. G name + Gk Gk > L
an instrument for indicating a condition in which the total
offal directly electric resistance. volume of the blood is reduced.
Brent showed Aru how to use an One of the health seminar sessions
offensive ohmmeter to test the resistance of a explores the relationship between
adj circuit. oligemia and migraine headaches.
/ ESfen(t)siv /
L oily oligophagous
making attack : relating to or adj
characterized by attack. olecranon / TBlESgBfEgEs /
The offensive team is the one in n Gk
possession of the ball. / PSlekrETnBn / eating only a few specific kinds of
Gk > L food—used especially of an insect.
offertory the large process of the ulna that Oligophagous insects feed upon
n projects behind the elbow joint and only a limited number of usually
/ SOfE(r)TtPrG / forms the bony prominence of the related plants.
L elbow—called also “funny bone.”
an antiphon, anthem, or other When the arm is extended, the oligophrenic
musical selection sung or played olecranon fits into a depression in
during a religious service in which the humerus. oligopoly
monetary gifts are received from
the congregation. oleiferous oligopsony
Linda and Mike sang a duet for the adj n
offertory during last week’s church / TPlGSif(E)rEs / / TBlESgBpsEnG /
service. L+L Gk
producing oil. a market situation in which each of
officiate The oleiferous castor beans are the a limited number of buyers is
source of castor oil. strong enough to influence the
officinally market but not strong enough to
olfactometry ignore the reaction to such
officious n influence by his competitors.
adj / TBlTfakStBmEtrG / Buyers of expensive printing
/ ESfishEs / L + Gk + Ecf presses constitute an oligopsony,
L the testing and measurement of the since there are only a few dozen in
volunteering one’s services where sensitivity of the sense of smell. the whole world.
they are neither asked nor needed : When Godfrey couldn’t smell any
meddlesome. aromas from foods, his doctor olivaceous
The officious busybodies offered recommended that he undergo adj
help just to satisfy their curiosity. olfactometry. / TBlESvCshEs /
Gk > L > F > E + L + Ecf
often olfactorily of the color olive or olive green.
While walking through the salt
ogival marsh, Janice came upon a
laughing gull’s nest of three
olivaceous eggs.
olive
Page 180 of 289

olpe onychophagia opal
n
ombrology / TBnEkPSfCj(G)E / opaleye
Gk
ombrophobe nail-biting. opaquely
n Resa applied a bitter substance to
/ SBmbrETfPb / her nails in hopes of curing her openness
Gk + Gk onychophagia.
a plant incapable of withstanding opera
long-continued rain. onymous
Excessive rain can cause the leaves operable
of an ombrophobe to decay and oolite
fall. operant
oolong
omen operate
oomycete
omens n operetta
n pl / TPESmITsGt /
/ SPmDnz / Gk + Gk operose
L a fungus of a subclass of parasitic
occurrences believed to portend or or saprophytic fungi that includes operoseness
show the character of a future water molds, white rusts, and n
event. downy mildews. / TBpESrPsnDs /
Losing his lucky coin and spilling A new fungicide has been L + Ecf
the salt were omens that pointed to developed to combat the oomycete the quality of requiring or
a bad day ahead for Nick. causing root rot in many crops. involving effort or labor.
The diplomat was not discouraged
ominously ooporphyrin by the operoseness and slowness of
n the negotiations.
omniphibious / TPESpO(r)fErDn /
Gk + Gk ophidian
omphaloskepsis a pale brown pigment in eggshells adj
(as of the domestic hen). / PSfidGEn /
onegite Julia explained to her young Gk
daughter that the ooporphyrin in of, relating to, or resembling that of
oneiromancy brown-shelled eggs in no way snakes : snakelike.
alters their quality. Medusa’s ophidian hairdo is a
oneness tidbit from mythology that many
ooze students never forget.
onomastic n
adj / SVz / ophiophagous
/ SBnETmastik / E
Gk a stretch or piece of muddy ground. opinionator
[Note: Could be confused with Without a moment’s hesitation they
onomastics.] of, relating to, or started through a puddle of sticky opisometer
consisting of a name or names. ooze, which quickly became ankle-
Pape’s onomastic lexicon is deep. opium
immeasurably useful to students of
ancient Greece. opacate opponent
v
ontological / PSpCTkCt / opportunistic
L
make impervious to the rays of
visible light.
Because even a small amount of
daylight awakens Scott, he uses
special shades that opacate his
windows.
Page 181 of 289

oppress oracular ordinal
v adj n
/ ESpres / / OSrakyElE(r) / / Sord(F)nEl /
L L L
burden spiritually or mentally as if resembling an authoritative or wise a number designating the place (as
by pressure : weigh heavily upon. expression especially in solemnity first, second, third) occupied by
Feelings of failure oppress Candice of delivery. any item in an ordered sequence.
from time to time. Oz’s oracular pronouncement The ordinal for the number one is
impressed Dorothy and her friends. first.
oppressive
adj oracy ordinance
/ ESpresiv /
L orangelo orenda
overpowering or depressing to the n
spirit or senses. oration / PSrendE /
The troops battled the oppressive Wyandot
heat by drinking large amounts of oratorio extraordinary invisible power.
water. n The medicine man relied on his
/ TOrEStPrGTP / orenda to control others.
opsimath L > It
n a musical composition having a orexis
/ SBpsETmath / libretto based usually on a n
Gk scriptural subject and consisting / PSreksDs /
a person who begins to learn late in typically of recitatives, arias, Gk > L
life. choruses, orchestral interludes and the feeling and striving aspect of
The opsimath earned his high accompaniment, and sometimes mind as contrasted with the
school diploma at 77 and his spoken dialogue but having no intellectual.
college degree at 80. action, scenery, or costume. Anyone who has watched a baby
Handel’s oratorio Messiah is learn to walk knows that the human
optician performed annually at the orexis is innately strong.
n cathedral.
/ BpStishEn / organic
Gk > L > F oratory adj
one that grinds spectacle lenses to / O(r)Sganik /
prescription and dispenses orbicularity Gk
spectacles. n being, containing, or relating to
The new optician in town is / TO(r)TbikyESlarEZG / carbon compounds.
offering a special price on L Fadela’s science fiction novel
prescription sunglasses. the quality or state of resembling or starts with the discovery of organic
having the form of an orb or globe. compounds on Jupiter.
optics The geologist noted the stone’s
n pl highly unusual orbicularity. organization
/ SBptiks /
Gk orbiculate organophyly
a science that deals with light.
In the antiquarian shop, Liza found orchestrate organza
a 125-year-old book on optics.
orchestrelle organzine
optimum
ordain orguinette
optometer
ordered oriental
ordinable originated
orinasal
Page 182 of 289

orismology ortstein osmoscope
n n n
/ TOrDzSmBlEjG / / SOrtTstIn / / SBzmETskPp /
Gk + Gk G Gk
the science of defining technical a cemented or compacted and often an instrument for detecting and
terms. clayey layer in soil that hampers measuring odors.
At the conference of botanists, root penetration and may be caused The inspector used an osmoscope
problems relating to orismology by repeated plowing to the same to find the gas leak in the basement.
were discussed with reference depth.
especially to terms used in plant The local soil contains so much osseous
pathology. clay that the farmers have had to adj
use special techniques to avoid / SBsGEs /
ornithoid turning their fields to ortstein. L
adj [has near homonym: Aussies]
/ SO(r)nETJOid / oryzivorous composed of or resembling bone :
Gk bony.
birdlike. oscillate The oyster is protected by its
The ornithoid statue in Walcott osseous shell.
Park is always covered with oscillometer
pigeons. n ossificatory
/ TBsESlBmEZE(r) / adj
ornithology L + Gk / ESsifDkETtPrG /
an instrument for measuring the L
ornithoscopy changes in pulsations in the of or involving the process of bone
arteries. formation.
orography Some blood pressure instruments A poor diet can easily interfere
are equipped with an oscillometer with the ossificatory process.
orthic to measure the pressure
fluctuations within the bag. ossify
orthoepist
oscitancy osteogenesis
orthophoria n
/ SBsEZEnsG / osteomyelitis
orthopterology L
n drowsiness usually demonstrated osteopath
/ (T)O(r)TthBptESrBlEjG / by yawns. n
Gk >L By the third day of testimony on / SBstGETpath /
the study of insects with blood types, oscitancy had swept Gk
mouthparts fitted for chewing, two the courtroom. a practitioner of a system of
pairs of wings or none, and an medical practice based on the
incomplete metamorphosis. osier theory that diseases are due chiefly
The study of crickets and n to a loss of structural integrity in
grasshoppers, cockroaches, / SPzhE(r) / the tissues.
mantises, and stick insects is L>F>E If Dr. Fletcher can’t cure Reba’s
included in orthopterology. any of various willows whose headaches, she plans to consult an
pliable twigs are used for furniture osteopath.
ortolan and basketry.
The children wove many small osteopathy
baskets with the twigs of the osier.
osteophyte
Osirian n
adj / SBstGETfIt /
/ PSsIrGEn / Gk
Egyptian name a small pathological bony
of or relating to Osiris, ancient outgrowth.
Egyptian god of the underworld. George’s back pain was caused by
Thanks to Plutarch, the Osirian an osteophyte on one of his
legend was recorded for posterity. vertebrae.
Page 183 of 289

osteoplasty otoscope overcapitalize
n
osteotomy / SPZETskPp / overindulgent
Gk + Gk
ostium an instrument fitted with lighting oversight
n and magnifying lens systems and
/ SBstGEm / used to facilitate visual inspection overwhelm
L of the auditory canal and ear drum. v
one of the lateral slits in the heart Dr. Jamison peered through the / TPvE(r)S(h)welm /
of an arthropod by which the blood otoscope into Kayla’s ear. E
enters from the pericardium. overthrow and bury beneath :
The ostium allows blood to reenter ounce engulf completely.
the insect’s heart from the insect’s n Mudslides can overwhelm entire
one blood vessel, which runs / SaUn(t)s / communities in a matter of minutes.
dorsally the length of its body. L>F>E
a unit of weight equal to 1/16 overwrought
otherworldly avoirdupois pound. adj
To understand why gold is sold by / TPvE(r)SrOt /
otiose the ounce and silver is sold by the E
adj pound, check the prices. suffering from or revealing nervous
/ SPshGTPs / strain : agitated.
L oust Randy’s parents are overwrought
being at leisure or at ease : idle, v by his desire to get a tattoo.
unemployed. / SaUst /
The otiose travelers slept until L > F > AF ovibos
nearly noon. put out of possession : eject, n
dispossess from, or deprive of an / SPvETbBs /
otioseness inheritance. L
The rebels met in secret and voted a heavyset shaggy-coated wild ox
otiosity to oust the king by force if now confined to Greenland and the
n necessary. barren northern lands of North
/ TPshGSBsEZG / America—called also “musk ox.”
L>F outbreak The horns of the ovibos grow
the quality or state of lacking use, sideways from the skull, curving
effect, or function. outdoorsy downward at the sides of the head
Mr. Simmons advised that and then upwards at the ends.
complaining about the power outmoded
outage would be an exercise in ovine
otiosity, because nothing could be outrance adj
done about it. / SPTvIn /
outsert L
otorhinolaryngology of, being, or relating to sheep.
n outvote Selena wrote a paper on infectious
/ TPZETrInPTlarDnSgBlEjG / ovine diseases for the veterinary
Gk ouvert journal.
a branch of medicine that deals adj
with the ear, nose, and throat and / VSve(E)r / ovularian
their diseases and disorders. F
The Cleveland Clinic’s department having an open stance or owlet
of otorhinolaryngology examined a movement in ballet.
rock group and found that all its The prima ballerina demonstrated oxblood
members suffered from laryngitis. an ouvert plié to the class.
ovality
ovary
ovenware
Page 184 of 289

oxford padlock Paleozoic
n adj
/ SBksfE(r)d / padre / TpClGESzPik /
E geog name n Gk
a low-cut usually laced shoe / SpB(T)drC / of or relating to a division of
coming to the instep. L > Sp or It or Pg geological history from the
The salesclerk suggested a saddle a military chaplain. beginning of the Cambrian to the
oxford as a comfortable everyday Father Mulcahey, the base close of the Permian periods.
shoe. chaplain on the television series Seed-bearing plants and
M*A*S*H, was often referred to as amphibians first appeared in the
oxidization “the padre.” Paleozoic era.
n paduasoy
/ TBksEdDSzCshEn / n pales
Gk > F / SpajEwETsOi / n pl
the act or process of chemically It geog name + F / SpClz /
adding oxygen to. a rich heavy corded silk fabric for L
Oxidization is part of the process of clothing and upholstery. [Note: The definition provided is
releasing energy during the The Venetian prince wore a tunic of not the one most commonly
metabolism of carbohydrates. embroidered paduasoy. associated with this word. In
addition, word has homonym:
ozone paganism pails.] slats fastened to a rail at top
n and bottom for fencing : pickets.
/ SPTzPn / paginate They now walked on together
Gk > G quietly till within view of the
an allotropic triatomic form of pahoehoe vicarage pales.
oxygen that is normally a faintly n
blue irritating gas with a / pEShPGThPG / palette
characteristic pungent odor. Hawaiian
While browsing through the cooled hard lava marked by a palfrey
magazine, Ken learned that ozone smooth often billowy shiny surface. n
is formed in the atmosphere by a The geologist showed the class / SpOlfrG /
process involving diatomic oxygen samples of different types of lava, (Gk + Gaulish > L) > F > E
and solar radiation. including pahoehoe. a saddle horse other than a war-
horse having a light, easy gait.
ozostomia paillard With his war-horse lame, the knight
had no other choice but to ride a
pacemaker pair palfrey.
pachisi palatalize palingenesis

v n
pachymeter / SpalEZFlTIz / / TpalDnSjenEsDs /
n L + Ecf Gk
/ pESkimEZE(r) / pronounce with the front of the renewal by or as if by rebirth, as
Gk tongue near or touching the hard the doctrine of reincarnation.
an instrument for measuring roof of the mouth. The discussion of palingenesis
thickness (as of paper). English speakers palatalize the first started with the illustration of an
The paper mill’s superintendent of n in the word onion. oak tree producing acorns, which,
quality control finally ordered an in turn, produce oak trees.
electronic pachymeter. paleface
palisade
pachysandra paleography
n
pacifism / TpClGSBgrEfG /
Gk
packet the study of ancient modes of
writing including inscriptions.
pact The museum turned over the
mysterious stone tablets to a
paddle specialist in paleography.
Page 185 of 289

palisado paludicolous panached
n adj adj
/ TpalESsCdP / / TpalyESdikElEs / / pESnasht /
L > OProv > Sp L F
a fence of stakes used especially for living or thriving in a marshy variegated with stripes of color.
defense. environment. Donna planted a bed of red and
Irwin’s group walked along the The campers were not used to the white panached tulips.
fort’s entire palisado while the tour nightly cacophony of the nearby
guide talked endlessly. paludicolous frogs. panama
n
palladian palynological / SpanETmB /
adj adj Tupi > Central American geog
/ pESlCdGEn / / TpalEnESlBjDkEl / name
Gk > L Gk a fine lightweight hat of natural-
of or relating to wisdom or concerned with pollen or pollen colored straw hand-plaited of
learning. grains. narrow strips from the young
Ike tries to strike a balance Dr. Wickes hopes that her leaves of the jipijapa.
between palladian pursuits and palynological research will some While on a tropical vacation, Mr.
recreational activities. day help many who suffer from Pease bought a white, hand-woven
allergies. panama to shade his head.
palliasse
pampas panchreston
palliatory n pl n
/ SpampEz / / panSkrestEn /
pallid Quechua&Aymara > Sp Gk
adj extensive generally grass-covered a broadly inclusive and often
/ SpalDd / plains of temperate South America oversimplified thesis that is
L east of the Andes. intended to cover all possible
lacking in brightness or intensity : Morrie dreams of being a gaucho variations within an area of
pale—used of a color or a colored on the Argentine pampas. concern.
object. Michael’s doctoral advisor gently
Today’s pallid sky contrasts pamper explained that his thesis was a
sharply with yesterday’s brilliant panchreston and needed to be more
blue one. pampero focused.
n
pally / pamSperP / panchromatic
AmerSp
palmery a strong cold wind from the west or pancosmism
southwest that sweeps over the
palmetto pampas of South America from the pancreas
Andes.
palmistry The cattle were huddled together pandowdy
with their backs turned into the n
palpably pampero. / panSdaUdG /
unknown
palpus pamphletize a deep-dish apple dessert that is
n spiced; sweetened with sugar,
/ SpalTpEs / panachage molasses, or maple syrup; and
L n covered with a rich biscuit crust
a segmented process attached to a / TpanESshBzh / and baked.
mouthpart of an arthropod, usually F Mother serves pandowdy, our
having a tasting or feeling function. a variation of the list system that favorite dessert, whenever visitors
Jack found a species of allows a voter to redistribute names stay for dinner.
grasshopper with an unusually from several party lists into a list
large palpus. having names in an order of his or panegyrical
her own choice.
palter Harry proposed panachage as an panegyrist
alternative to the old procedure.
panforte
Page 186 of 289

Panglossian Pansil papillote
adj n n
/ panSglBsGEn / / Span(t)sDl / / SpapETlPt /
(Gk + Gk) > F literary name Skt > Pali > Singhalese L>F
marked by the view that “all is for [Note: Could be confused with a greased paper wrapper in which
the best in this best of possible pencil.] the rite in Hinayana food is cooked and served.
worlds.” Buddhism of undertaking Harvey carefully peeled the colored
The coach’s Panglossian attitude ceremonially a set of five precepts papillote from his chocolate
lifted his team’s sagging spirits. of morality. cupcake.
Pansil is taken individually before
pangolin a Buddhist shrine or collectively at papyraceous
n the beginning of a Buddhist
/ SpaNgElDn / meeting of any kind. parabola
Malay n
any of a family of Asian and pansit / pESrabElE /
African toothless mammals having n Gk + Gk
the body covered with large / SpBn(t)sDt / a plane curve generated in such a
overlapping horny scales and Tag manner that it is equal to a conic
feeding chiefly on ants. a Chinese noodle dish of the section formed by the intersection
Because of its overlapping scales, Philippines. of a cone with a plane parallel to an
the pangolin is sometimes called a As more and more ethnic element of the cone.
walking artichoke. restaurants open, Americans are The high fly ball described a
becoming familiar with dishes such parabola in the air.
panhandle as pansit.
parachronism
panicky pantaloonery
paradigms
panjandrum pantheon
n paradoxical
panophobia / Span(t)thGTBn /
n Gk paragoge
/ TpanESfPbGE / a temple dedicated to all the gods. n
L + Gk The pantheon in Rome has survived / SparETgPjG /
a condition of vague nonspecific remarkably intact since ancient Gk
anxiety : generalized fear. times. the addition of a sound or syllable
For several days after the to the end of a word.
earthquake, Rachel experienced a pantometer By paragoge, the word golden was
mild panophobia. n formed from the word gold.
/ panStBmEZE(r) /
panoplied Gk > F paragon
a device for measuring all angles.
panoply The pantometer can be used to paralogism
n measure all sorts of angles, n
/ SpanEplG / lengths, and heights. / pESralETjizEm /
Gk Gk
a magnificent or impressive array. panzer a reasoning contrary to logical rules
The panoply of wildflowers in the or formulas.
meadow took away Carla’s breath. panzootic The debate team was defeated once
its paralogism was exposed.
panorama papagallo
paralyze
papal
paranee
paparchical
papaverine
papered
Page 187 of 289

parapetless paratactic parliamentary
adj adj adj
/ SparETpDtlDs / / TparEStaktik / / TpBrlESmentErG /
L > It + Ecf Gk F>E
not having a wall, rampart or of, relating to, or exhibiting of, relating to, or having the nature
elevation designed to protect coordinate ranging of clauses, of a supreme legislative body of a
soldiers. phrases, or words one after another usually major political unit.
The castle was parapetless, the two without coordinating connectives. Members of the Senate were asked
towers having been destroyed by Herodotus was cited as an example not to delay parliamentary business
cannon fire a century earlier. of an author who used a paratactic with lengthy speeches.
style.
paraphrase parlous
parazonium
paraphrasia parmesan
parchment n
parapraxia / SpBrmDTzBn /
n pardon It geog name
/ TparESpraksGE / a very hard dry cheese with a sharp
Gk paregoric flavor that is cured for several years
a faulty act (as a slip of the tongue and used grated to season other
or of memory) : blunder, lapse. parentage foods (as spaghetti and sauces).
One parapraxia after another n Clem sprinkled a mound of
caused Mr. Aiken to wonder if he / Spa(a)rEntij / parmesan atop his vermicelli.
was in the early stages of senility. L > F + Ecf
descent from ancestors : lineage. parolee
parapsychology The earl asked his valet, “Can you n
n tell me anything of the parentage of / pETrPSlG /
/ TparEsISkBlEjG / the lady in this photo?” Gk > L
Gk parental one granted a conditional and
a science concerned with the revocable release from prison.
investigation especially by parenthesis Vanessa hoped that giving the
experimental means of events that parolee a job would help to keep
are considered to be evidence of parenthetic him from becoming a repeat
mental telepathy, clairvoyance, and offender.
psychokinesis. pargetry
Those claiming to be experts in n paronomasia
parapsychology find it easy to gain / SpBrjEtrG / n
attention in the tabloid press. E / TparEnPSmCzh(G)E /
ornamental plaster or stucco relief Gk > L
paraquat work applied to a flat surface. a play upon words in which the
n The corridors of the mansion were same word is used in different
/ SparETkwBt / ornamented with a variety of senses or words similar in sound
Gk + L pargetry. are set in opposition : pun.
an herbicide that is used especially Harold is usually quite clever with
as a weed killer. pariahism his puns, but this time his
The DEA officials sprayed paronomasia was purely silly.
paraquat on the marijuana fields. parish
n paronymous
parasoled / Sparish /
Gk > L > F > E parquetry
[has near homonym: perish] the
ecclesiastical unit of area
committed to one pastor;
collectively : the residents of such
area or the members of one church.
Father Johnson bought a car so he
could visit everyone in his parish.
parka
Page 188 of 289

parricide paseo patchy
n n
/ SparETsId / / pBSsCP / patently
L Sp adv
[has near homonym: parasite] one a leisurely stroll : promenade. / SpatFntlG /
that murders his or her father, Florrie and Georgia took an L
mother, or a close relative. afternoon paseo down the clearly, obviously, plainly.
The judge ordered a psychiatric boulevard. The marketing company was sued
evaluation of the accused because some parts of its
parricide. paskha infomercial were patently untrue.
n
parried / SpBsKE / paterfamilias
v Gk > Russ n
/ SparGd / a molded Russian dessert made of / TpaZE(r)fESmilGEs /
L > Prov > F cheese, cream, raisins, candied L
warded off a weapon or blow by fruit, and nuts and traditionally the male head of a household.
means of a defensive action. served at Easter. Kevin declared himself
Neither fencer scored as they Basking in the admiration of her paterfamilias for the day and took
parried for several minutes. family, Tatiana proudly brought the his younger siblings to the baseball
paskha to the table. game.
parrot
passably pathetic
parrotlet adj
passade / pEStheZik /
parsimonious Gk > L
passgang evoking tenderness, pity, sympathy,
parsley or sorrow : affecting, pitiable.
passim The pathetic man, whose clothes
partage were worn and tattered, had once
passimeter been a prominent community
partan leader.
passionately
partial adv pathology
/ Spash(E)nDtlG / n
partiality L + Ecf / pESthBlEjG /
with great feeling : enthusiastically. Gk
participation “Now let me see,” Mrs. Whatsit the study of diseases; their essential
pondered. “I’m passionately fond nature, causes, and development;
participle of Russian caviar.” and the structural and functional
pastel changes produced by them.
particular adj Carla, a second-year medical
adj / paSstel / student, was considering choosing
/ pE(r)StikyElEr / L > It > F pathology as her specialty.
L pale and light in color : lacking in
distinctive among others of the brilliance and intensity. pathways
same kind : out of the ordinary : Mrs. Cooper selected bold rather n pl
worthy of notice. than pastel colors for her new / SpathTwCz /
Was there a particular reason that baby’s bedroom decor. E+E
you overslept today? tracks specially constructed for a
parure pastime particular use (as walking).
Another open green door revealed
parvanimity pastor bushes and pathways between beds
containing winter vegetables.
parvitude pastoral
patina
pastoralism
patas
Page 189 of 289

patio pauperize peccavi
n v n
/ SpaZGTP / / SpOpESrIz / / peSkB(T)vG /
L > OProv? > Sp L + Ecf L
a recreation area adjoining a reduce to abject poverty. a humble acknowledgment of sin or
dwelling, often paved, and adapted Afraid that another market dip error : confession.
especially to outdoor dining. would pauperize him, Soren sold The leader stood in front of his
Rachel’s birthday party was held his shares in dot-com companies. followers and uttered a tearful
on the sunny patio. peccavi, hoping that they would
pawned forgive and forget.
patioed
payable pecksniffian
patisserie adj
payola / pekSsnifGEn /
patriliny n fictional E name + Ecf
/ pCSPlE / unctuously hypocritical : selfish
patronize L > F > E + E? and corrupt behind a display of
an undercover or indirect payment seeming benevolence.
patroons for a commercial favor. The pecksniffian humbug in charge
n pl The disc jockey was fired when it of the charity event took on the job
/ pEStrVnz / became known that he received merely as a public relations stunt.
L>F payola from a record company.
the proprietors of the tracts of land pectoral
granted to members of the Dutch payroll adj
West India Company. / Spekt(E)rEl /
Most of present-day New York and peabody L
New Jersey was once owned by n of, related to, situated or occurring
patroons. / SpGTbBdG / in or on, or worn on the chest.
E name Turning a so-called “painted”
patten a fast ballroom dance in open turtle over reveals beautiful orange
n position. and green patterns on its pectoral
/ SpatFn / The Lowensteins surprised plates.
L>F>E everyone at the Opera Ball when
[has homonym: paten] a clog, they danced the peabody. peculiarities
sandal, or overshoe often with a n pl
wooden sole or metal device to peacetime / pDTkyVlSyarEZGz /
elevate the foot and increase the L
wearer’s height or aid in walking in peacock qualities or states belonging
mud. exclusively or especially to a
Jack kicked aside the muddied peameal person or group.
patten that Marsha had left on the Among her less endearing
porch. pearl peculiarities is a penchant for
always arriving late.
pattern pebbled
peculiarly
paulopost peccancy adv
n / pDSkyVlyE(r)lG /
paunch / SpekEnsG / L>E
L particularly, unusually.
paunchy the quality or state of being guilty Lucille was peculiarly grumpy
of a moral offense. during lunch.
pauper The stockholders decided to
overlook the CEO’s peccancy and pedagogy
reelected him to another term.
peddle
Page 190 of 289

pedestal pegasus pelmatogram
n n n
/ SpedDstFl / / SpegEsEs / / pelSmaZETgram /
It > F Gk name Gk + Gk
the base of an upright structure (as a fabulous winged horse; especially an impression of the sole of the
a statue, vase, or lamp). : the winged steed thought of as foot.
Because tourists did so much bearing a poet in flights of fancy. Joan picked up the bronzed
damage to the statue in the town Monique drew a picture of Mother pelmatogram and reminisced about
square, it was moved to a much Goose riding on a pegasus instead the time when her son was a baby.
higher pedestal. of a goose.
pelorus
pediculosis peignoir
n n pelota
/ pDTdikyESlPsDs / / pCnSwB(r) /
L L>F peloton
infestation with lice. a woman’s loose negligee or n
The school nurse explained that dressing gown. / SpelETtBn /
about five percent of elementary Betty’s black peignoir fluttered as F
school children are affected with she walked past the air conditioner. a European ornamental glass.
pediculosis. There was a large display of
Pekingology peloton in the window of the
pedigerous n antique shop.
adj / TpG(T)kiNSBlEjG /
/ pDSdijErEs / Chinese geog name penalize
L the study of the policies and
having feet : footed. practices of Communist China. pendentive
The insect had three pedigerous Professor Chen was an expert in
segments. Pekingology. pendicle
pedigreed pelean pending

adj adj
pediment / pDSlGEn / / SpendiN /
Martinique geog name L + Ecf
pedodontics of, relating to, or resembling not yet decided : in continuance.
volcanic eruptions characterized by Most of the cases pending before
peerage violent expulsion of clouds or the honor council deal with
n blasts of incandescent volcanic ash. cheating.
/ Spirij / The pelean eruption of Mount St.
L>F>E Helens filled the Toutle River with pendulosity
the rank or dignity of nobility. many tons of ash.
The war hero’s name was penitent
submitted to the king for a peerage. pelelith n
/ SpenEZEnt /
peevish pelerine L
adj a person regretful of sin : one
/ SpGvish / pellet sorrowful because of his
E transgressions.
marked by ill temper. pellucidity St. Francis of Assisi spent several
The nurse showed great patience n years as a penitent at the beginning
and forbearance toward her / TpelyESsidEZG / of his conversion.
peevish patient. L
the quality or state of permitting penny
one to see through to a remarkable
degree. penologist
The pellucidity of the water in the
bay attracted many scuba divers.
pellucidly
Page 191 of 289

penology penultimate perciatelli
n adj n
/ pGSnBlEjG / / pDSnEltEmDt / / TperchESte(l)lG /
Gk + Gk L It
a branch of criminology dealing next to the last. long tubular pasta slightly thicker
with prison management and the In the word ammunition, the stress than spaghetti.
treatment of offenders especially falls on the penultimate syllable. The specialty at Antonio’s
with regard to their rehabilitation. restaurant was perciatelli with
In his course in penology, Jake peonage meatballs.
studied the procedures for
probation and parole. peppermint percolator
pensionnat peppery perdition

adj n
pentacle / Spep(E)rG / / pE(r)SdishEn /
n E L
/ SpentDkEl / hot, pungent, piquant. the place of eternal punishment in
L > It The peppery smell coming from the the future state.
a five-pointed star producible by wok almost made Josh choke when Overly remorseful for his minor
one continuous line. he entered the kitchen. wrongdoing, Bryce felt sure that a
The man who came to the door place in perdition was reserved for
wore a necklace with a bronze peradventure him.
pentacle on it. n
/ TpErEdSvenchE(r) / perdure
pentagonal L>F>E
an opinion based on guesswork : peregrination
pentastich surmise. n
n Thinking that Phil’s favorite color / TperEgrDSnCshEn /
/ SpentETstik / is red just because he purchased a L
Gk + Gk red car is a peradventure. an excursion especially on foot or
a unit, stanza, or poem consisting to a foreign country : journey.
of five lines. percale Julie’s peregrination to Italy
Eric recited a limerick as an opened her eyes to the splendors of
example of a pentastich. percaline Renaissance art.
Pentateuchal perceived peremptorily

adj v
/ TpentEStVkEl / / pE(r)SsGvd / perennially
Gk L>F>E
of or relating to the first five books became aware of through the perfectibilism
of the Old Testament. senses.
The synagogue’s guest lecturer was Through the mist, Steve perceived perfidiously
a world-famous Pentateuchal the shape of a house. adv
scholar. / pE(r)SfidGEslG /
perceptibly L
penthouse adv in a dishonest or disloyal manner.
n / pE(r)SseptEblG / Paul has a reputation for behaving
/ SpentThaUs / L perfidiously and should not be
L>E in a manner so as to be perceived. given confidential information.
a dwelling built on a roof. When Laura entered the
Lyla lives in the penthouse of a chic supermarket, the air was perfunctory
new apartment building. perceptibly cooler. adj
/ pE(r)SfEN(k)t(E)rG /
perch L
characterized by routine or
percheron superficiality : cursory.
The bureaucrat gave the teenager a
perfunctory smile and continued to
ignore her.
Page 192 of 289

pergola periphyton periwig
n n
pericardium / pESrifETtBn / / SperDTwig /
n Gk F
/ TperESkBrdGEm / organisms that live attached to one of several wigs popularly worn
Gk > L underwater surfaces. from the 17th century to the early
the conical sac of serous membrane Periphyton, such as certain algae, 19th century.
that encloses the heart. live on submerged plant stems and The museum exhibited an imposing
The bullet wound narrowly missed leaves. portrait of King Louis XIV wearing
piercing Officer Callahan’s an elaborate periwig.
pericardium. peripteral
adj permafrost
pericope / pESript(E)rEl /
Gk permanent
perigloea having a row of columns on all
sides. permeability
periglottis The Parthenon in Athens is a n
peripteral temple, and most of its / TpErmGESbilEZG /
perilous columns are still standing. L + Ecff
adj the quality or state of being
/ SperElEs / periscope passable, penetrable, or pervious—
L>F>E used especially of a substance that
full of, attended with, or involving perished allows the passage of fluids.
danger. adj The permeability of Larry’s tent to
Karen covered her eyes frequently / Sperisht / the rain resulted in a wet evening
during the movie, unable to watch L > F > E + Ecf for the campers.
her favorite actor face one perilous deadened or weakened by
pitfall after another. exposure. permissible
The perished cotton crop was a
periodic result of the severe hail storm permit
during the night. n
periodontal / SpErTmit /
adj peristyle Sp > E
/ TperGPSdBntFl / [Note: The definition provided is
Gk peritonitis not the one most commonly
of or affecting the tissues or regions n associated with this word.] a large
surrounding a tooth. / TperEtESnIZDs / up to three feet long blue and silver
The closeup photographs of Gk pompano found especially off the
advanced periodontal disease made inflammation of the membrane that West Indies and Florida.
Kara want to floss her teeth. lines the cavity of the abdomen of a The game warden wouldn’t allow
mammal. Vince to catch a permit without a
periosteal The cause of Beth’s abdominal fishing license.
adj pain was bacterial peritonitis.
/ TperGSBstGEl / permitted
Gk peritus
situated around bone or produced n perpend
external to existing bone. / pESrGZEs / v
The bone scan revealed periosteal L / pE(r)Spend /
inflammations around the tibia in an expert who acts as an adviser at L
both legs. a Vatican council. weigh carefully in the mind.
When the council reached an He retired to the inn to write notes
impasse, the peritus was called and perpend his situation.
upon for advice.
Page 193 of 289

perpendicularly perspective pertussis
adv n n
/ TpErpEnSdikyElErlG / / pE(r)Sspektiv / / pE(r)StEsDs /
L L L
exactly vertical or upright. the appearance to the eye of objects whooping cough.
Because he was so frightened, Paul in respect to their relative distance In the United States, babies are
could not sit perpendicularly upon and positions. routinely immunized against
the horse. Perspective made the long rows of pertussis.
machines seem almost to meet.
perpension pesade
perspicacity n
perpetrator / pESsCd /
n perspiry L > It > F
/ SpErpETtrCZE(r) / adj a dressage maneuver in which a
L / pE(r)SspIrG / horse is made to raise his
one that commits an offense or L > F + Ecf forequarters while keeping his hind
crime. sweaty. feet on the ground without
The perpetrator was apprehended In the muggy weather Kendall advancing.
after a high-speed car chase by wears lightweight clothing so as The pesade is the first lesson taught
police. not to become perspiry. a horse in order to bring him to
curvets.
perpetuity perstringe
v pessimism
perplex / pE(r)Sstrinj /
L pessimistic
perplexed find fault with : censure, criticize. adj
“Why must you perstringe / TpesESmistik /
persistent everything I do?” cried Emma. L>F
marked by disbelief, distrust, or a
personage persuasion lack of confidence, hope, or joy.
n The senator was pessimistic about
/ SpErs(F)nij / persuasively the passage of any tax-cutting bills
L>F>E adv this year.
an eminent man or woman; / pE(r)SswCsDvlG /
especially : one distinguished for L + Ecff pestiferous
presence and personal power. in a manner influencing the mind
Winston Churchill, a personage by arguments or reasons. petard
most widely known for his The puppy looked longingly at the
leadership during and after World boy’s cookie and wagged its tail petechial
War II, was also an accomplished persuasively. adj
artist. / pDStGkGEl /
pertaining L > It
personalia marked by minute reddish or
perturb purplish spots containing blood that
personify v appear in skin or mucous
v / pErStErb / membranes especially in some
/ pE(r)SsBnETfI / L infectious diseases.
Etruscan > L > F [Note: The definition provided is Dr. Owens told Boris to let him
be the embodiment of. not the one most commonly know if the petechial rash on his
Zoltan strove to personify the associated with this word.] cause (a hand did not disappear in a couple
perfect Boy Scout. planet or other celestial body) to of days.
deviate from a theoretically regular
orbital motion usually as a result of petite
extraordinary gravitational pull. adj
The black hole’s great density / pEStGt /
caused it to perturb a nearby star. F
small and trim of figure : little.
For such a petite woman, Alana
has a surprisingly resonant voice.
Page 194 of 289

petition phalangeal phenomenally
n adj
/ pDStishEn / / fESlanjGEl / philamot
L Gk > L adj
the act or action of formally asking of or relating to the digital bones of / SfilETmBt /
or humbly requesting. the hand or foot of a vertebrate. F
The students, through their right of Gert’s phalangeal joints were of the color of a dead leaf or
petition, have helped bring about swollen with rheumatism. brownish orange.
changes in the school cafeteria’s When Ken called Vicky’s coat a
menu. phalarope lovely shade of philamot, she had
no idea his remark was an insult.
petitionee phantasmagoria
philanderer
petrel phantom
philanthropist
petronella pharmaceuticals
n n pl philanthropy
/ TpetrESnelE / / fBrmESsUZDkElz / n
name? Gk > L / fDSlan(t)thrEpG /
a Scottish country dance of the 19th medicinal drugs. Gk
century. Congress reviewed the laws goodwill expressed through active
Fiona and Brian learned the governing the importation of efforts to promote human welfare :
petronella on the Isle of Skye. experimental pharmaceuticals. humanitarianism.
A few individuals with a well-
petticoat pharmaceutics developed sense of philanthropy
n pl can do wonders for society.
pettifog / TfBrmESsVZiks /
v Gk Philomel
/ SpeZGTfBg / the science of preparing, using, or n
G name dispensing medicines. / SfilETmel /
quibble over insignificant details. A degree in pharmaceutics is one of Gk name
You can expect Aunt Dana and the requirements for a job in the nightingale.
Aunt Elizabeth to pettifog over drug research laboratory. The Philomel usually sings at night.
every family story they can
remember. pharmacist philosophize
v
pettish pharmacology / fDSlBsETfIz /
n Gk + Ecf
pewter / TfBrmESkBlEjG / seek a rational basis for fact and
Gk > L experience : reflect, theorize.
pfeffernuss the study of drugs, their Jermain’s chemistry teacher
n composition, effects, and use in encouraged him to philosophize
/ SfefE(r)TnVs / medicine. about the nature of the elements.
G Having done well in both biology
a small hard highly spiced cookie and chemistry courses, Phyllis phobia
made traditionally for the decided to pursue a degree in
Christmas holidays. pharmacology. phobic
The aroma of pfeffernuss in the adj
oven brought back memories of pharmacy / SfPbik /
Christmas to the old man. Gk
pharyngeal of, relating to, characterized by, or
phaeochrous arising from an exaggerated and
adj pharyngology often disabling fear usually
/ fGSBkrEs / inexplicable to the subject.
Gk phasic A phobic person’s fear serves to
dusky. protect the ego from anxiety arising
A phaeochrous cloud hovered over phatic from unexpressed aggressive
the city for several hours following impulses.
the earthquake. phenol
Page 195 of 289

phonation photobiology photometeor
n n
phoneme / TfPZPTbISBlEjG / / SfPZ(T)PTmGZGE(r) /
Gk > ISV Gk > ISV
phonetic a branch of biology that deals with a temporary luminous phenomenon
adj the effects on living beings of light in the sky.
/ fPSneZik / and other forms of radiant energy. Many UFO sightings can be
Gk > L Part of Prof. Sanford’s grant was explained as some sort of naturally
of or relating to spoken language or to study the photobiology of occurring photometeor.
speech sounds. aquatic plants.
Carmen asked me to write the photometer
phonetic spellings next to the photochromic n
difficult words. adj / fPStBmEZE(r) /
/ TfPZESkrPmik / Gk + Gk
phonics Gk an instrument for measuring
capable of changing color on luminous intensity by comparison
phosgene exposure to radiant energy (as of two unequal lights from different
light). sources.
phosphorescent Gail doesn’t need sunglasses Astronomer Edward Charles
adj anymore because her new Pickering invented a photometer to
/ TfBsfESresFnt / prescription lenses are measure the brightness of stars.
Gk + Lcf photochromic.
exhibiting or characterized by photomicroscope
luminescence. photocopy n
The phosphorescent glow of / TfPZPSmIkrPTskPp /
decaying wood lit up the forest. photoelectric Gk
adj a combined microscope, camera,
phosphoric / TfPZPTDSlektrik / and suitable light source.
Gk > ISV Florio set up a photomicroscope to
phosphorus relating to or utilizing any of take pictures of the protozoa he
n various electrical effects due to the found in the pond.
/ SfBsfErEs / interaction of light and other
Gk > L radiation with matter. photomontage
a nonmetallic element of the Prof. Minchin showed by
nitrogen family that occurs widely experiment the photoelectric photon
in combined form especially as current set up by a beam of light n
inorganic phosphates in minerals, falling on a sheet immersed in a / SfPTtBn /
soils, natural waters, bones, and solution of acid carbonate of Gk
teeth and as organic phosphates in calcium. a massless elementary particle with
all living cells. one quantum unit of spin that is the
Photographers used to burn photoflood carrier of radiant energy (as light or
powdered phosphorus to create a n X rays).
flash. / SfPZPTflEd / The concept of the photon
Gk + E originated in Einstein’s
phosvitin an electric lamp using excess explanation of the photoelectric
voltage to give intense sustained effect.
photic illumination for taking
adj photographs.
/ SfPZik / The photoflood blew the fuse in the
Gk + Ecf old house.
of, pertaining to, or caused by light.
When a clam is placed on its side, photoing
it will tightly close its valve in v
response to both tactile and photic / SfPZPiN /
receptors. Gk + Ecf
obtaining an image with a camera.
While she was photoing, Darcy
bound her hair back with a
barrette.
Page 196 of 289

photovoltaic phugoid phytoplankton
adj adj n
/ TfPZPvBlStCik / / SfyVTgOid / / TfIZESplaNktEn /
(Gk + It name + E) > ISV Gk Gk
of, utilizing, or relating to the of, relating to, or representing the floating plant life of a body of
generation of an electromotive variations in the longitudinal water consisting largely of minute
force when radiant energy falls on motion or course of the center of plants (as diatoms and blue-green
the boundary between certain mass of an airplane in flight. algae).
dissimilar substances in close Glider designers study phugoid Phytoplankton are at the bottom of
contact. theory to develop stable aircraft. the ocean’s food chain, which
A photovoltaic effect can be means that they are vital to all
produced with cuprous oxide and phylic marine animals.
copper or with an electrode and an
electrolyte. phyllomancy piaffe
phrase phyllotaxy piano
phreatic phylogeny picador

adj n
/ frGSaZik / / fISlBjEnG / pickerel
Gk Gk
of or relating to a well—used of the history or course of the Pickwickian
underground waters reachable by development of an immaterial adj
drilling. thing. / pikSwikGEn /
Kathryn’s data indicate that there It would be difficult for phylogeny E name + Ecf
is a large phreatic source of water to explain the emergence of so marked by simplicity and
six miles northeast of the city. many different world philosophies. generosity of character or by an
appearance and manner suggesting
phrenic phylum these qualities.
adj n Matilda wishes that her principal
/ Sfrenik / / SfIlEm / were more like the Pickwickian
Gk Gk > L headmaster of Tom’s school.
of or relating to the mind. one of the usually primary
Julia was more concerned with her divisions of the animal kingdom. picnic
son’s phrenic development than Insects belong to the phylum
with his physical skills. Arthropoda. picotee
phrenicectomy physical picry
phrontistery physiology pictograph

n
/ SfrBntETsterG / phytopathogen picudo
Gk n n
a place for thinking or study. / TfIZ(T)PSpathEjDn / / pDSkV(T)dP /
On warm spring afternoons the Gk + Gk + Gk AmerSp
backyard gazebo was an organism parasitic on a plant a boll weevil.
Grandfather’s favorite host. After the picudo ravaged cotton
phrontistery. Biochemists have developed crops in 1916, many cotton farmers
antibiotic compounds to eradicate diversified and raised peanut
Phrygian the bacterial phytopathogen. crops.
adj
/ SfrijGEn /
Gk geog name
of, relating to, or characteristic of
the ancient country of Phrygia.
In Rome the Phrygian cap was
worn by emancipated slaves as a
symbol of their freedom.
Page 197 of 289

piebald pigeonwing pimpernel
adj n
/ SpITbOld / pigment / SpimpErTnel /
L>F>E+E L > E name
spotted or blotched with black and pigmentation a common herb having scarlet,
white. white, or purplish flowers that close
Young blue herons acquiring adult pigpen at the approach of rainy or cloudy
plumage have a piebald weather.
appearance. pigsty One variety of pimpernel is also
known as “poor man’s
pied pilcrow weatherglass.”
adj pinched
/ SpId / pileum
L>F>E n pincushion
variegated; also : wearing or having / SpIlGEm /
a parti-colored coat. L pincushions
Jenna’s favorite story is about the the top of the head of a bird from n pl
pied piper who took revenge when the bill to the nape. / SpinTkUshEnz /
the townspeople failed to pay him The woodpecker’s pileum was a E+L>F>E
for ridding their town of rats. brilliant red crest and looked to be small cushions in which pins may
two inches high. be stuck ready for use.
piedmont Kathryn has several pincushions in
adj pilfer her sewing cabinet.
/ SpGdTmBnt /
It geog name pilfery pinkeye
lying or formed at the base of
mountains. pilgrim pinnate
Alma thinks that North Carolina’s adj
piedmont region is heaven on pillage / SpiTnCt /
Earth. v L
/ Spilij / resembling a feather especially in
pierced L>F>E having similar parts arranged on
strip of valuables : loot. opposite sides of an axis like the
Pierian After the battle, opportunists came barbs on the spine of a feather.
adj from outside the city to pillage its The chick-pea plant bears pinnate
/ pISirGEn / neighborhoods. leaves.
Gk geog name
of or relating to learning or poetry. pilosity pinyin
Once a month the local Pierian n
society sponsors a poetry reading. pilot / SpinTyin /
n Chinese
pierrot / SpIlEt / a system for romanizing Chinese
n Gk > It > F ideograms in which tones are
/ SpGETrP / one who flies or is qualified to fly indicated by diacritics and
F name an airplane. unaspirated consonants are
a standard comic character of old Hugh is the pilot of a huge transcribed as voiced.
French pantomime usually with a transport plane. Our newspapers adopted pinyin for
whitened face and loose white spelling the names of Chinese
clothes. pilpul officials.
Hanna studied the painting of the
pierrot to get an idea for her pipable
pantomime costume.
piping
piezometer
pipit
piffling
piquant
pigeonhole
pique
Page 198 of 289

piquette pithecan plagiarist
adj
pirarucu / pDSthGkEn / plague
Gk n
Pisces of, relating to, or resembling apes, / SplCg /
n especially the anthropoid apes. L>F>E
/ SpI(T)sGz / The unearthed skull exhibited many [Note: The definition provided is
L pithecan characteristics. not the one most commonly
the 12th sign of the zodiac. associated with this word.] a
Pisces falls between Aquarius and pithos destructively numerous influx or
Aries. multiplication of a noxious animal.
pitiful Although only a foolish optimist
piscivorous could deny the dark realities of our
pitiless country in 1941, we were stricken
pisco adj by no plague of locusts.
/ SpiZGlDs /
pisiform E plaguing
adj devoid of or unmoved by
/ SpIsETfOrm / compassion. plaid
L The pitiless tornado bore onward,
resembling a pea in size or shape. ripping up everything in its path. plaidoyer
Johan purchased three cubic yards
of pisiform gravel for his new placards plainsong
driveway. n pl n
/ SplaTkBrdz / / SplCnTsON /
pistil F>E L>F>E+E
n posters, signs. the ancient nonmetrical
/ SpistFl / The demonstrators carried monophonic chant of the church
L placards protesting the use of service.
[has homonym: pistol] the ovule- animals for pharmaceutical testing. The psalm was chanted in
bearing organ of a seed plant. plainsong.
The lily has but one pistil; the placate
daffodil has several. v plainspoken
/ SplCTkCt /
pistilloid L plaintful
soothe or mollify especially by adj
pitch making concessions : appease. / SplCntfEl /
v The labor relations team worked L>F>E
/ Spich / hard to placate the factory workers mournful.
E to avoid a strike. Plaintful over the loss of her pet
toss so as to cause to fall at or near rabbit, Jennifer decided not to get
a particular mark. placeholder another pet.
On warm summer evenings Dad
likes to pitch horseshoes in the placement plaintive
backyard.
placid plaintively
pitchblende adv
n placidly / SplCntDvlG /
/ SpichTblend / adv F>E
G / SplasDdlG / in a manner expressive of grief or
a brown to black mineral that has a L sadness.
distinctive luster, contains radium, calmly, serenely. Three-year-old Jamie asked
and is the chief ore-mineral source The once-violent river now flows plaintively for his lost teddy bear.
of uranium. placidly along.
A German chemist discovered planeload
uranium in pitchblende in 1789. plafond
pitchfork plage
Page 199 of 289

plangency plasma platitudinal
n n adj
/ SplanjEnsG / / SplazmE / / TplaZEStVd(F)nEl /
L Gk > L > G F
an expressive especially plaintive an ionized gas (as in the having the characteristics of a
quality. atmosphere of stars) containing thought or remark that is stale, dull,
Regret and grief were expressed in about equal numbers of positive trite, or weak.
the plangency of the singer’s voice. ions and electrons and differing The old pastor’s homilies were
from an ordinary gas in being a usually portentously platitudinal.
plangent good conductor of electricity and in
being affected by a magnetic field. platitudinize
plangorous “The thing that looks like a blue v
donut on your handout is an / TplaZEStVdFnTIz /
planish illustration of how magnetic rings F + Lcf > Fcf + Ecff
are used in confinement of utter remarks that are flat, dull,
plantain plasma,” said Professor Rooki. trite, or weak.
n The politician’s tendency to
/ SplantFn / plastron platitudinize belies the fact that he
L>F>E has innovative ideas.
the starchy fruit of the plantain tree plateau
that is distinguished from the n Platonic
ordinary banana by its angular / plaStP / adj
shape and green color. F / plEStBnik /
Fried chips of plantain are a land area having a relatively level Gk name
common snack in the Caribbean. surface raised sharply above being in accordance with or in the
adjacent land on at least one side. manner of the Greek philosopher
plantigrade The Columbia lava plateau is Plato and his works.
adj located in eastern Washington and Iris Murdoch has written modern
/ SplantETgrCd / Oregon. Platonic dialogues.
L
walking on the sole with the heel platform platoon
touching the ground. n
Most primates are not plantigrade. / SplatTfOrm / platycrania
F
plaquette a shoe having a usually thick layer platypodia
n (as of cork or wood) between the n
/ plaSket / inner sole and outer sole. / TplaZGSpPdGE /
D>F In the ’70s, the platform was the Gk
a metal stamping die that is cut in shoe associated with bell-bottoms flat-footedness.
relief and used to decorate the sides and long skirts. Platypodia no longer disqualifies
of leather bookbindings. an applicant from joining the army.
Lars was required to make his own platina
plaquette to earn a merit badge for adj platysma
bookbinding. / plEStGnE / n
Sp / plEStizmE /
of the color platinum—used Gk > L
especially of pale bluish gray furs. a broad thin layer of muscle on
The platina fur coat was the most each side of the neck.
expensive garment in the store. Cory’s training for his massage
therapy license included learning
platitude the names of the muscles of the
neck and back, including the
platysma, the trapezius, and the
intracostal.
Page 200 of 289

plausibility plumbery plutonium
n n
/ TplOzESbilEZG / / SplEmErG / pluviosity
L L n
the quality or state of being the business or work of one who / TplVvGSBsEZG /
superficially worthy of belief. installs, repairs, and maintains L
Half-truths, because of their piping, fittings, and fixtures the quality of being marked by or
plausibility, are frequently more involved in the distribution and use regularly receiving heavy rainfall.
dangerous than outright lies. of water in a building. High pluviosity is a characteristic
While Paul was in vocational of most places along the equator.
plausibly school, he demonstrated a strong
aptitude for plumbery. plywood
pleasurable
plummeted pneumectomy
plebeian v n
/ SplEmDZDd / / n(y)VSmektEmG /
plebiscitary L>F>E Gk
dropped sharply and abruptly. the surgical removal of lung tissue.
plebiscite The San Francisco street The surgeon happily announced
plummeted down toward the bay. that the pneumectomy was
plectrum completely successful.
plumose
pledge adj pneumococci
/ SplVTmPs / n pl
pleiotropic L / Tn(y)VmESkBTkI /
adj having feathers or plumes : Gk + Gk
/ TplIEStrBpik / feathered. bacteria that cause acute
Gk + Gk Emily’s plumose mask was a hit at pneumonia involving one or more
producing more than one effect— the Mardi Gras party. lobes of the lung.
used of a gene. Penicillin-resistant pneumococci
The subject of David’s research is plunder are also usually resistant to
a pleiotropic gene that induces erythromycin and tetracycline.
shortening of the ear and reduces plunderbund
general body size in the mouse. n pneumococcus
/ SplEndE(r)TbUnd /
plenipotent G+G pneumonia
a league of commercial, political,
pleodont or financial interests that exploits pneumonic
the public. adj
pleuropneumonia Some people think the Internet has / n(y)VSmBnik /
n become nothing more than a Gk
/ TplUrPn(y)VSmPnyE / glorified plunderbund. of or relating to the lungs.
Gk Pneumonic diseases like asthma
inflammation of the lungs and their plundered and bronchitis are more prevalent
membranous sacs. in heavily polluted areas.
Parasitic microorganisms can pluperfect
cause pleuropneumonia in sheep pneumothorax
and goats. pluricellular n
/ Tn(y)VmPSthPrTaks /
pliable plutocratic Gk
adj a state in which air or other gas is
plicatile / TplVZESkraZik / present in the pleural cavity.
Gk The paramedic acted quickly to
plight of, relating to, or characterized by prevent a potentially debilitating
rule or dominion of wealth or of the pneumothorax in the accident
plotless rich. victim.
The suburb had clean air, good
ploy schools, and a plutocratic city
government.
Page 201 of 289

pochette pointe politely
n n
/ pPSshet / / SpwBMt / political
F L>F
kit : handbag. the extreme tip of the toe. politician
Tanya carried her money and keys The teacher told the students to
in a small silk pochette that stand on pointe while she evaluated politicization
matched her evening dress. their form.
politicize
pochismo poises
n n pl politico
/ pPSchGz(T)mP / / SpwBzDz /
Sp F name politics
a term of U.S. origin borrowed into centimeter-gram-second absolute
Mexican Spanish. units of viscosity, each equal to 1 poll
Juan believes that not a single dyne-second per square centimeter.
pochismo adds to the beauty of the After melting and conditioning, pollards
Spanish language. glass is delivered to a forming n pl
machine in a manageable shape at / SpBlE(r)dz /
pocketbook a viscosity of approximately 10,000 G>E
poises. trees that have been cut back to the
pocketing trunk to promote the growth of a
poison dense head of foliage.
pockmark Emma’s frequent walks along
pokal Vicarage Lane soon acquainted her
podagra with the hedges, gates, pools, and
n polarimeter pollards of that part of Highbury.
/ pESdagrE / n
Gk / TpPlESrimEZE(r) / polling
a painful condition of the big toe L + Gk adj
caused by gout. an instrument for determining the / SpPliN /
George’s podiatrist recommended amount of polarization of light. E
changes in his diet to relieve his Cagney required a very accurate of or relating to the registering or
podagra before resorting to polarimeter for his experiments. casting of votes.
medication. Harry got off work early to vote on
polariscopic polling day.
podium
polarizable polychotomous
pogamoggan
pole polycyclic
pogonotomy
policeman polygrapher
pogrom n
policy / pESligrEfEr /
poi Gk
poliorcetics one skilled in the use of an
poignancy instrument for making a graphic
polished record of the changes in blood
poimenics v pressure and pulse and respiration
n pl / SpBlisht / rate of someone being questioned
/ pOiSmeniks / L>F>E under or as if under suspicion of
Gk made smooth and glossy by a guilt.
the study or application of pastoral mechanical process usually by The law holds that the opinions of a
theology. friction. polygrapher regarding the veracity
Rather than compete with The wizard polished a small object of a person are not admissible
traditional theology programs, the vigorously on his robe. evidence.
university has started a graduate
program in poimenics. polissoir
Page 202 of 289

polymer polysyndeton poncelet
n n n
/ SpBlDmE(r) / / TpBlGSsindETtBn / / SpBn(t)slDt /
Gk Gk F name
a natural or synthetic chemical repetition of conjunctions in close a unit of power in physics equal to
compound or mixture of succession. the amount of power obtained from
compounds consisting essentially “We have our passports and our an output of 100 kilogram-meters
of repeating structural units. money and our tickets and our per second.
Fascinated by the polymer they had luggage, and the tank is full of Kristin’s advanced physics class
created, the students tossed it from gas,” said Mother Gazda in spent an entire week learning about
one side of the lab to the other. unconscious polysyndeton. units of measurement such as the
poncelet, the rankine, and the barn.
polymerize polyvinyl
poncho
polyonymous pomeridian
adj ponderal
polypropylene / TpPmESridGEn /
n L ponderance
/ TpBlGSprPpETlGn / blossoming after noon.
Gk + ISV A common pomeridian garden ponderosity
a polymer of propylene; especially plant is the four-o’clock that
: such a polymer used chiefly in blossoms late in the afternoon. ponderously
making fibers, films, and molded adv
and extruded products. pomiferous / SpBnd(E)rEslG /
Much of today’s indoor-outdoor L > F > E + Ecf
carpeting is made of woven pompeii in an oppressively heavy manner.
polypropylene. n A statue of Zeus sits ponderously
/ pBmSpC / atop the small pavilion.
polyptych It geog name
n a moderate to deep reddish brown. ponerology
/ SpBlDpTtik / Nancy’s favorite earth tone is n
Gk pompeii. / TpBnESrBlEjG /
an arrangement of four or more Gk
panels (as of a painting) usually pomposity a branch of theology dealing with
hinged and folding together. n the doctrine of evil.
Pauline used an antique polyptych / pBmSpBsEZG / Ponerology still made a lot of sense
as a room divider. L to Damian despite everything he
a self-important demeanor, speech, had been taught about genetics and
polystyrene or action. the influence of environment.
n Though he had much power, the
/ TpBlGSstITrGn / leader exhibited no trace of ponor
Gk pomposity. n
a rigid transparent thermoplastic / SpPTnO(E)r /
that has good physical and ponceau Serbo-Croatian
electrical insulating properties and n a steep-sided sinkhole.
is used chiefly in making / pBnSsP / Ms. Ventura cautioned the Scouts
containers and other molded L>F to avoid the ponor at the edge of
products and sheet materials. a strong red to reddish orange. the old quarry.
Some restaurants have stopped The artificial poppies worn on
using polystyrene cups because Veterans’ Day are of the distinct pontal
they are not biodegradable. color ponceau.
pontifical
pontoon
poolroom
popinjay
Page 203 of 289

poplar posit potency
adj
popular positron / SpPtFnsG /
L
populate post force, power, authority.
n Massed action and individual effort
population / SpPst / each has its own potency.
E
pore [has near homonym: posed] a potentiality
piece of timber or other solid
poroscopy substance (as metal) fixed or potentially
intended to be fixed firmly in an adv
porous upright position especially as a stay / pEStenchElG /
or support. L + Ecf
porphyous The first step in constructing a in a possible state or condition :
fence is to dig a hole for each post. with a possibility or capacity of
portable becoming actual.
postmortem The rash on Henrietta’s arm could
portent n potentially spread if not treated.
n / pPs(t)SmOrtEm /
/ SpOrTtent / L+L potentiometer
L an examination of a body after
something that foreshadows a death to determine the cause of potiche
coming event : omen. death or the character and extent of
The seer viewed the blood-red changes produced by disease. potoroo
moon as a portent of evil. The postmortem revealed that the n
cause of death was asphyxiation. / TpPZESrV /
portfolio Australian name
n postnuptial any of various small Australian and
/ pPrtSfPlGTP / adj Tasmanian kangaroos that are no
L > It / pPstSnEpshEl / larger than a rabbit.
a flat portable case for carrying L The rabbit-sized potoroo forages at
papers or drawings. made or happening after marriage. night for grass, tubers, and
Mr. Barnstone set his portfolio The bride and groom posed for underground fungi, which it digs up
behind the door as he entered the postnuptial photographs. with its forepaws.
house.
postponable potsherd
portico
n postulancy pounce
/ SpPrZDkP / v
L > It potamologist / SpaUn(t)s /
a colonnade or covered walkway. n E
The pair entered the shaded portico / TpBZESmBlEjDst / suddenly seize, grab, attack.
for a private conversation. Gk Stanley watched the owl pounce on
a specialist in the study of rivers. the rat.
portion Fran, who knew many rivers like
the back of her hand, was a pour
portulaca potamologist.
n powdery
/ TpPrchESlakE / potash
L n power
any plant of a genus of mainly / SpBZTash /
tropical succulent herbs having D
usually yellow, pink, red, white, or potassium carbonate.
purple ephemeral flowers with four In colonial days potash was used to
to six petals. make soap.
A hanging pot by Linda’s front
door contained a portulaca with
yellow flowers.
Page 204 of 289

powwows prattle precipitate
n pl n v
/ SpaUTwaUz / / TpraZFl / / prGSsipETtCt /
Algonquian G L
meetings or conferences for trifling or empty talk or chatter. cause a substance to separate from
discussion : sessions. The endless prattle on the bus ride a solution in a concrete state as a
The team holds daily powwows annoyed Mr. Danton. result of a chemical or physical
before practice. change.
preaudit Calcium and magnesium ions in
practical hard water can precipitate calcium
precarious and magnesium carbonate, often a
practitioner problem in domestic water pipes.
precariously
pragmatic adv precipitated
adj / prGSka(a)rGEslG / v
/ pragSmaZik / L / prGSsipETtCZDd /
Gk > L in a manner characterized by a lack L
practical, matter-of-fact. of security or stability. caused to move or act very rapidly.
Edmund took a pragmatic stance Teddy balanced precariously on the The completion of the railroad
on most things in his life, especially chair as he attempted to extract the precipitated the demise of
his finances. last Oreo from the cookie jar. waterborne transport.
pragmatically precede precipitation

n
prairie precedes / (T)prGTsipEStCshEn /
n v L
/ SprerG / / prGSsGdz / a deposit on Earth of hail, mist,
L>F L rain, sleet, or snow; also : the
a meadow or tract of grassland. [has near homonym: proceeds] quantity of water deposited.
The prairie stretched out broad and goes before in order of time : Low-pressure areas normally bring
flat to the horizon in every occurs before with relation to clouds and precipitation.
direction. something.
A certain stillness precedes a precise
prairillon tempest. adj
n / prGSsIs /
/ prCSrilyEn / precentor L>F
F devoid of anything vague,
a small meadow or tract of preceptor equivocal, or uncertain.
grassland. Mr. Rouse is quite precise about
Baron Munchausen’s ranch turned precession everything, and he has never been
out to be a two-room shack and a n known to joke with a student.
weed-covered prairillon. / prGSseshEn /
L preclude
praiss [has near homonym: procession] a v
comparatively slow gyration of the / TprGSklVd /
pralltriller rotation axis of a spinning body. L
Precession of Earth’s axis will prevent or hinder by necessary
prancer make Vega our North Star in about consequence or implication.
13,000 years. Being a movie star did not preclude
prankster Ronald Reagan from having a
precessional successful political career.
prase
preciosities
prate
precious
precipitancy
precipitant
Page 205 of 289

preconditioned prehistory preposition
v n
/ TprGkEnSdishEnd / / prGShist(E)rG / prepossessing
L + L + Ecf Lcf + Gk adj
put in proper or desired condition an account comprising a / TprGpESzesiN /
in advance of some intended chronological record of the L
treatment. preceding circumstances of an tending to please or arouse
Before new wood is painted it event or situation. confidence : creating a favorable
should be preconditioned with a The prehistory of the tension impression.
primer. between the boss and his employees With her impeccable carriage and
includes some family issues. her prematurely white hair, Lydia
predecease was a prepossessing figure at the
prelapsarian political convention.
predicament adj
n / TprGTlapSsa(a)rGEn / preprandial
/ prGSdikEmEnt / L + Ecf adj
L characteristic of or belonging to the / prGSprandGEl /
a difficult, perplexing, or trying time before the fall of man. L
situation. The painting depicted Adam and of, relating to, or suitable for the
Miss Bates, though having much Eve in prelapsarian paradise. time immediately before dinner.
public favor, stood in the very Before the main course, Benito
worst predicament in the world: prelude served a preprandial soup.
She was neither young, handsome, n
rich, nor married. / SprCTlVd / prerequisite
L n
preemptive a musical section or movement / prGSrekwEzDt /
adj introducing the theme or chief L
/ prGSem(p)tiv / subject. something that is mandatory
L Tycho arrived at the concert after beforehand.
being or related to a first military the prelude was over. A Juris Doctor degree is a
strike made to gain an advantage prerequisite for the practice of law.
when a strike by the enemy is premature
believed imminent. presbyopia
The ability to launch a preemptive prematurely
strike against a possible aggressor adv Presbyterian
is a major factor in the theory of / TprGmEStU(E)rlG / adj
nuclear deterrence. L + Ecf / TprezbEStirGEn /
before the proper time : too soon. Gk
preemptory Not wanting to tire prematurely, of, relating to, or constituting a
the rowing crew began the race by Protestant church that is governed
prefabricate pulling easily. by a graded system of
representative ecclesiastical bodies
prefabrication prenuptial and is traditionally Calvinistic in
doctrine.
preface prepaid While in college, William grew
interested in becoming a
preferred preparate Presbyterian minister.
prehensility preparations prescribe

n pl
/ TprepESrCshEnz / prescriptive
L
actions or processes of making
something ready for use or service.
Tina’s preparations for the party
included decorating the room and
baking the cookies.
preponderance
Page 206 of 289

preserve prevocalic priscan
v adj
/ prGSzErv / prey / SpriskEn /
L v L + Ecf
can, pickle, or similarly prepare (as / SprC / dealing with or existing in ancient
fruits or vegetables) for future use. L>F>E times.
Beverly hurried to preserve her make raids for the sake of booty. Professor McCowan is an expert
bumper crop of peaches before they Pirates prey on the coastal on druidism and other priscan
became overripe. shipping off Somalia’s coast. religions of Britain.
pressurization prickle prism

n
prestigious priggish / SprizEm /
Gk > L
presumptuous primacy a transparent body that is bounded
in part by two nonparallel plane
presylvian primatial faces and is used to refract or
disperse a beam of light.
pretender primatologist The prism cast an array of colors
n on the tablecloth.
preterient / TprImEStBlEjDst /
L + Gk prisoner
preterlabent a specialist in the study of members n
adj of the order Primates especially / Spriz(F)nE(r) /
/ TprGZE(r)SlCbEnt / other than recent humans. L>F>E
L Jane Goodall’s many years of a person held under arrest or in
flowing beside or by. studying chimpanzees has made her prison.
Mr. Ross pumped water from a the world’s most famous For good behavior at the
preterlabent stream to irrigate his primatologist. penitentiary, the prisoner was
vegetable garden. released after serving one-third of
primero his sentence.
prettier
primeval privet
pretzel n
n primogeniture / SprivDt /
/ SpretsEl / n unknown
L>G / TprImPSjenETchU(E)r / an ornamental Eurasian and
a glazed usually salted bakery L northern African shrub that is used
product made of a rope of dough the state of being the firstborn of extensively for hedges and has
typically twisted into a form the children of the same parents. half-evergreen leaves and small
resembling the letter B. In British law, male primogeniture white flowers.
Brian munched on a large pretzel is used to determine inheritance of Oliver planted privet along the
as he watched his favorite real estate and titles. edge of his front yard.
television program.
princely privileged
prevail
v principle
/ prGSvCl /
L prionodont
be or become effective or effectual
: be successful. priority
The attorney was confident that
justice would prevail in the case. priory
prevailing
prevaricator
previous
Page 207 of 289

privileges proclaim profligate
n pl adj
/ Spriv(E)lijDz / procrastination / SprBflDgDt /
L L
various fundamental rights procrypsis completely given up to wild
considered as peculiarly guaranteed extravagance or excess.
and secured to all persons (as the prodigy Lord Kensington’s profligate
enjoyment of life and liberty and spending was the reason for the
the right to pursue happiness). prodromal meeting with his banker.
Patrick Henry was convinced that adj
the colonists must fight if they / prPSdrPmEl / progenitors
wished to preserve inviolate the Gk n pl
privileges for which they had been precursory; especially : of, relating / prPSjenEZE(r)z /
contending. to, or marked by warning L
symptoms of a disease. ancestors in the direct line :
privy Half of the people who have heart forefathers.
adj attacks have had prodromal The land had been in the hands of
/ SprivG / symptoms ranging from nausea and Mr. Williamson and his progenitors
L>F>E dizziness to chest pressure. for several generations.
privately aware as one participating
secretly. production prohibit
Although she was not privy to their
secrets, Alice could guess what her profert projectile
sisters were up to. n
professional / prESjektFl /
probability L
professor a self-propelling weapon (as a
probation rocket, torpedo, or guided missile).
n professorial The sensing device will detect any
/ prPSbCshEn / adj projectile larger than a football.
L / TprPfESsPrGEl /
the action of suspending the L projicient
sentence of a convicted offender didactic, learned.
and giving the offender freedom The eminently professorial volume prolepsis
during good behavior under the on verb tenses in English was n
supervision of a probation officer. impractical for those learning / prPSlepsDs /
Because of the extenuating English as a foreign language. Gk
circumstances, the judge decided a figure in which a matter is set
on probation instead of a prison proffer forth in summary before being
sentence. stated in detail.
proficient Putnam begins with a prolepsis, but
probationer adj that does nothing to ruin the
/ prESfishEnt / suspense as the plot unfolds.
probity L
n [has near homonym: perficient] proliferate
/ SprPbEZG / well advanced in an art, v
L occupation, skill, or a branch of / prPSlifETrCt /
uprightness, rectitude. knowledge. L>F
Mr. C. Z. Armand is a man of Many educators feel that it is grow by rapid or repeated
indisputable probity. imperative for grade school production of new parts or of buds
children to become proficient in or offspring.
procacious more than one language. Blackberry vines will proliferate
very quickly if they are not cut
procacity profile back.
procathedral
processus
Page 208 of 289

prolocutor pronouncement propylene
n n n
/ prPSlBkyEZE(r) / / prESnaUn(t)smEnt / / SprPpETlGn /
L L>F>E Gk > ISV
one who speaks, pleads, or a usually formal declaration of a flammable gaseous hydrocarbon
interprets for another. opinion or judgment. obtained by cracking petroleum
The prolocutor for the department The whole town anxiously awaited hydrocarbons and used chiefly in
of public works explained that the Judge Milburn’s pronouncement. organic synthesis.
bridge would be under repair for Propylene is an important
the next several weeks. propellable constituent of automobile
antifreeze.
prolong prophecy
prorate
Promethean prophesy
adj prosaic
/ prESmGthGEn / prophet
Gk > L n proscription
daringly original. / SprBfDt / n
Daryl’s success as an inventor is Gk / prPSskripshEn /
largely the result of his [has homonym: profit] one who L
Promethean approach to problem speaks for God or a deity : a an imposed restraint or restriction :
solving. divinely inspired revealer, prohibition.
interpreter, or spokesperson. Judith’s consulting contract
promising Abraham is considered a great includes a six-month proscription
prophet by several different against working for a competing
promissory religions. firm.
promotion propitiatory prosecutor

n
prompter propound / SprBsDTkVZE(r) /
n L
/ SprBmT(p)tE(r) / proprietary an attorney who conducts
L>E proceedings especially of a
one who reminds another of the proprieties criminal nature in a court on behalf
words to be spoken next; n pl of the government.
specifically : one responsible for / prESprIEZGz / The prosecutor asked the judge for
reminding actors during L>F>E permission to approach the bench.
performance. the customs and manners of polite
The prompter was surprised that society : conventionally correct proselytize
none of the actors required a cue behavior.
during the performance. Not one to bother with proprieties, proselytizer
Luke is considered by most people
prone to be downright rude. prosopography
adj
/ SprPn / propriety prosperous
L>E
having the face, chest, or abdomen proprioceptive prostaglandin
turned toward the ground, floor, or adj n
other supporting surface. / TprPprGESseptiv / / TprBstESglandDn /
The paramedics turned the prone L+L L > E + L > E + Ecf
victim over so that they could activated by, relating to, or being any of various oxygenated
administer CPR. stimuli produced within the unsaturated cyclic fatty acids of
organism. animals that perform a variety of
pronoun Daniel’s study tested whether hormonelike actions (as in
blindfolded subjects could use controlling blood pressure or
proprioceptive feedback to move smooth muscle contraction).
one arm a prescribed distance. All aspirinlike analgesics inhibit
synthesis and release of
prostaglandin.
Page 209 of 289

prosthesis proven psammite
n
/ prBsSthGsDs / provender psammon
Gk
an artificial device to replace a provenience psammophile
missing part of the body.
After losing his right foot in an providence pschent
accident, Stan had to learn to walk n
again with a prosthesis. providential / S(p)skent /
adj Egypt > Gk
prostrate / TprBvESdenchEl / the headdress of the later Egyptian
adj L pharaohs formed of the two crowns
/ SprBTstrCt / of, relating to, or determined by worn by the respective pharaohs of
L divine guidance. Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt
extended in a horizontal position. Arthur’s arrival in the nick of time before the union of the country
Jeremy lay prostrate on the dock seemed providential. under one rule.
and watched the fishes in the water. The pharaoh’s statue stood 66 feet
providing high from the feet to the pschent
prostration covering his head.
n province
/ prBSstrCshEn / psephology
L provolone n
complete physical or mental / sGSfBlEjG /
exhaustion. prowl Gk
When Chris came down with the v the scientific study of elections.
flu, she suffered from chills, fever, / SpraUl / The pollster claims that prudent
and prostration. E psephology indicates that Liberals
move about or wander stealthily in may lose a few seats in the next
protégé the manner of a wild beast seeking election.
prey.
Proterozoic Captain Andrews and his pseudodoxy
adj submariners were ordered to prowl n
/ TprBZErESzPik / the North Atlantic. / SsVdPTdBksG /
Gk Gk
of or relating to a division of prudence an erroneous belief; also : the
geological time from the beginning holding of erroneous beliefs.
of the Huronian to the close of the prudently The pseudodoxy that walking under
Keweenawan. adv a ladder will bring bad luck is still
Annelid worms and blue-green and / SprVdFntlG / held by many reasonable people.
brown algae lived during the L>F>E
Proterozoic era. in a wise or judicious manner. pseudonym
Hakim prudently put suntan lotion
protervity on his ears. pseudonymity
n
proton pruner / TsVdFnSimEZG /
Gk + Ecf
protoplasm pruritus the fact or state of being signed (as
n n a book or other writing) with a
/ SprPZETplazEm / / prUSrIZEs / fictitious name.
(Gk + Gk) > G L To avoid becoming a celebrity,
organized living matter : the more localized or generalized itching due Professor Stanton hid his science-
or less fluid colloidal complex to irritation of sensory nerve fiction writings under the cloak of
making up each cell. endings. pseudonymity.
Under a microscope protoplasm Alice applied an ointment on the
exhibits a variety of appearances. rash to relieve the pruritus.
protostar psalmist
protractor psalterer
Page 210 of 289

pseudoptics pteric pulchritudinous
n pl adj adj
/ sVdSBptiks / / Sterik / / SpElkrETtVdFnEs /
Gk + Gk Gk L
the study of optical illusions. resembling a wing. beautiful.
The aspiring magician was very Hundreds of pteric maple seeds The hallway in the Fall Creek
much interested in the field of were wafting through the air in Theatre is lined with posters of
pseudoptics. George’s backyard. pulchritudinous movie stars.
pseudosyllogism Ptolemaic pulka

adj n
psittacism / TtBlESmCik / / SpElkE /
n Gk Finn&Lapp
/ SsiZETsizEm / of or relating to Ptolemy, the a one-person Lapp sledge shaped
Gk > L geographer and astronomer. like half a canoe and resting on a
automatic speech without thought Galileo got into big trouble by broad board or several runners.
of the meaning of the words challenging the Ptolemaic view of Timmy tried in vain to harness the
spoken. the universe. St. Bernard to the pulka.
Daniela was alarmed that her
pledge of allegiance to the flag had ptyalin pulley
become mere psittacism. n
/ StIElDn / pullulation
psittacosis Gk > ISV
n an enzyme found in the saliva of pulpiteering
/ TsiZESkPsDs / many animals including humans
Gk > L but not in that of horses, dogs, or pulpitry
an infectious disease of birds that is cats. n
transmissible to man. Ptyalin helps in the digestion of / SpUlTpitrG /
Vincent’s doctor has had him under starches. L
observation since his macaw was preaching.
diagnosed with psittacosis. publicist Jack is reading a book on the art of
n pulpitry.
psychagogy / SpEblEsDst /
L>F pulque
psychalgia an agent employed by an
individual, organization, or group pulsate
psychoanalysis to establish and maintain good
public relations. pulsebeat
psychology The author of the tell-all book once
worked as a publicist for several pulverized
psychotogenic rock stars. v
/ SpElvETrIzd /
psyllium puccoon L>F
n destroyed by or as if by smashing
/ SsilGEm / pueblo into fragments : disintegrated,
Gk n demolished.
[has homonym: cilium] an Old / Spwe(T)blP / The nightly news began with
World plantain having seeds that L > Sp footage of beach homes pulverized
swell and become gelatinous when a type of town founded by Mexican by Hurricane Fran.
moist and that are used as a mild Spanish settlers in the southwestern
laxative. United States. pumicite
When a laxative is needed, health Sadly, the ancient pueblo has been n
professionals recommend products abandoned by residents who have / SpEmETsIt /
that contain psyllium, a natural chosen to move to larger cities. L
fiber. a type of volcanic dust used for
puffin abrasive purposes.
The instructions recommended
pugnacity using pumicite to smooth the metal.
Page 211 of 289

pumpkin Purim pursuantly
n adv
puncheon / SpUrEm / / pE(r)SsVEntlG /
Heb L > F + Ecf
punctiliar a Jewish festival celebrated on the consequently.
14th of Adar in commemoration of Laura put all her effort into her
puncture the deliverance of the Jews from writing classes; pursuantly, she
the massacre plotted by Haman. won the Metzger Prize for best
pundonor Purim has its roots in the book of student journalist, but nearly failed
Esther. calculus.
punish
puritanical pursue
punster adj
/ TpyUrEStanDkEl / pursuing
puny L + Ecff
adj morally rigorous, strict. pursuit
/ SpyVnG / Mrs. Langley is a puritanical n
F woman who tolerates no nonsense / pE(r)SsVt /
slight or inferior in size. from her students. F > AF > E
No one would ever guess that the a chasing with haste.
strong and stocky wrestler was purl One of the others who was nearest
puny as a child. v the door leaped up and started in
/ SpErl / pursuit.
pupa unknown
n do knitting in a stitch that creates a pursuivant
/ SpyVpE / swirling appearance. n
L Claire’s mom will teach her to purl / SpErs(w)DvEnt /
an insect in an intermediate form now that Claire has mastered the F>E
that is between the larval and the basic knitting stitch. the lowest rank of one learning the
imaginal stages. profession of heraldry.
The pupa inside the beautiful jade purplish After studying for a year, James
shell with golden dots will soon earned the right to be called a
transform into a monarch butterfly. purport pursuivant.
pupillometer purported purview

adj
puppeteer / pErSpP(E)rZDd / putative
L > F > AF adj
purblind suspected of being : rumored. / SpyVZEZiv /
adj The purported spies were held in L
/ SpErTblInd / custody without being provided commonly accepted or supposed.
L>F>E+E legal assistance. The putative owner of the vicious
lacking in vision, insight, or dog claimed to have never seen the
understanding. purslane animal before.
Tom was despotic and purblind to n
the feelings of his wife and / SpErslDn / putrefaction
children. L>F>E
an annual herb widely distributed putrilage
purchase in both hemispheres whose fleshy n
succulent leaves are used in / SpyVtrElij /
purga cooking and salads. L
At the vegetarian café, Roberta matter that is rotting.
ordered a delicious salad of The pile of putrilage squirmed with
purslane and other greens. maggots and insects.
pursuant
Page 212 of 289

puzzle Pythagorean qualmish
v adj
/ SpEzEl / / pDTthagESrGEn / quantal
unknown Gk name
bewilder mentally. of or relating to the Greek quantimeter
Mark told Mary to stop trying to philosopher Pythagorus or his
puzzle his sad brains. philosophy. quantitate
The Pythagorean theorem states
pyelitis that in a right triangle, the square quarterback
of the hypotenuse is equal to the n
pyramidoidal sum of the squares of the other two / SkwOrZErTbak /
sides. L>F>E+E
pyrexia a backfield player in football who
n Pythian usually lines up behind the center,
/ pISreksGE / n calls the signals, and directs the
Gk / SpithGEn / offensive play of his team.
elevation of body temperature to an Gk The Denver Broncos quarterback
abnormal level : fever. of or relating to the ancient Greek John Elway led his team to a Super
The veterinarian was concerned god Apollo especially as patron Bowl championship in 1998.
about the dog’s pyrexia because it deity of Delphi.
could be an indication of The museum at Delphi contains quarterdeck
distemper. many Pythian statues from the
temple of Apollo. quarterly
pyrography
n pythonist quartile
/ pISrBgrEfG /
Gk quadragenary quartzite
the art or process of producing
designs or pictures by burning or quadratic quasquicentennial
scorching with hot instruments. n
Bone and ivory form good grounds quadrigamist / TkwBskwGTsenStenGEl /
for fine pyrography. L
quadrillion a 125th anniversary.
pyrolatry The city of Corner Brook, founded
quadroon in 1873, is hosting a large
pyrometer celebration for its
n quadrumana quasquicentennial this summer.
/ pISrBmEZE(r) /
Gk quadrumvirate quattrocento
an instrument for measuring n
temperatures. quadruped / TkwBtrPSchen(T)tP /
The pyrometer is often used to adj L > It
measure temperatures beyond the / SkwBdrETped / the 15th century; specifically : the
range of a mercurial thermometer. L 15th-century period in Italian
having four feet : using four limbs literature and art.
pyrophile when walking. Lorenzo De Medici was one of the
n Sally’s apartment lease restricts the chief supporters of Italian art
/ SpIrPTfIl / weight of any quadruped pets. during the quattrocento.
Gk + Gk
one who is enthusiastic over fire or quaff quaver
fireworks.
Being a pyrophile, Brian eagerly quaffingly
awaited the Fourth of July
fireworks display. quaintness
quake
qualify
Page 213 of 289

quavers quiescently quixote
n pl adv n
/ SkwCvE(r)z / / kwISesFntlG / / SkwikTsPt /
E L Sp name
tremulous uncertainties of tone (as in a manner marked by inactivity or an idealistic and utterly impractical
in the voice due to emotion). repose. person marked by rash lofty
The quavers in Leslie’s voice The virus insinuates itself into romantic ideas or chivalrous action
increased as she related the selected cells, where it may reside doomed to fail.
accident. quiescently for prolonged periods Because of his grandiose but
of time. unrealistic plan to eliminate
quavery poverty, the dictator has been
quiet called a “quixote.”
quayage quixotically
quila
queensware n quixotism
/ SkGlE /
quemadero Araucan > Sp quiz
a grass of the southern part of
querencia South America that resembles quizmaster
bamboo, is used as forage, and has
querist a fiber used in making paper. quoddy
Josefina knows how to make paper n
quesadilla from quila. / SkwBdG /
n American geog name
/ TkCsESdGyE / quilt an open sloop-rigged sailboat once
L > Sp used especially for fishing along
a turnover made usually with a quince the Maine coast.
cheese filling. Julia runs a business in Bar
Joyce usually eats a quesadilla as quindene Harbor, taking tourists fishing in
an afternoon snack. her quoddy.
quinquevir
questionable n quoit
/ SkwinkwETvi(E)r /
queued L rabanna
one of a commission, council, or n
quiaquia ruling body of five (as in ancient / rESbanE /
n Rome). Malagasy
/ SkGETkGE / When Karen was a quinquevir of a coarse matting handwoven from
Sp her school’s Student Council, she raffia fibers in Madagascar.
a small fusiform carangid fish of learned firsthand that too many The village woman sat on a mat of
the western Atlantic related to and cooks can spoil the stew. rabanna and watched the children
often included among the mackerel playing.
scads. quintal
The quiaquia is a food fish n rabbinical
frequently caught in the Caribbean. / SkwintFl /
Ar > L > F > E rabble
quibbling a metric unit equal to 100
kilograms. rabboni
quicksand It always makes Fred feel better to
say that he weighs only 1 quintal. rabies
quicksilver
quintuplet racetrack
quiddities
rachitogenic
racial
rackettail
Page 214 of 289

radiation ragwort ramentum
n
radiator / SragTwO(E)rt / ramify
E
radically any of several herbs with heads rampart
composed of flowers. n
radicicolous Ragwort can grow in very poor / SramTpBrt /
soil. L > Prov > F
radiesthesia a broad embankment raised as a
railbed fortification.
radiogoniometer With the army in retreat, the
rainbow invaders surged over the rampart
radiology adj and into the village.
/ SrCnTbP /
radiometer E ramuscule
n having the colors of the spectrum.
/ TrCdGSBmEZE(r) / The chorus wore glittering robes ranche
L + Gk and shiny, rainbow wings for the
an instrument for detecting and Christmas pageant. randomize
measuring the intensity of
electromagnetic or acoustic rainspout ranine
radiation. adj
The Crookes radiometer in the rainstorm / SrCTnIn /
form of a rotating toy survives in n L
jewelers’ windows as a supposed / SrCnTstO(E)rm / of or relating to frogs.
perpetual motion device. E+E The ceaseless ranine chirping from
a storm of or with rain. the pond kept Marcus awake all
radiosonde The sudden rainstorm caused night.
n flooding at many of the city’s
/ SrCdGPTsBnd / intersections. ranunculus
L+L>F>E n
a miniature radio transmitter that is rainy / rESnENkyElEs /
carried aloft (as by an unmanned adj L
balloon) with instruments for / SrCnG / any plant of a large and widely
broadcasting the humidity, E distributed genus of herbs that have
temperature, and pressure. wet, showery. simple or variously lobed leaves
The National Weather Service uses After a long dry spell, the rainy and mostly yellow flowers.
thin neoprene balloons to raise the weather was welcomed by Patsy planted a ranunculus in a pot
radiosonde to great heights. everyone. beside the kitchen door.
radish raisin rapacity

n
radome raj / rESpasEZG /
L
radon rale the quality or state of being
urgently eager for food.
radzimir rallentando Despite his rapacity, the freed
prisoner limited his food intake so
raffle rambunctiously as not to endanger his life.
adv
rafter / ramSbEN(k)shEsTlG / rapidity
L? > E
raggedy in an excessively exuberant rappee
manner.
The children were warned that if rappel
they behaved rambunctiously in the
restaurant, they would not be
allowed to have dessert.
Page 215 of 289

rarefaction rationalize reagent
n v n
/ Tra(a)rESfakshEn / / SrashEnFlTIz / / rGSCjEnt /
L L>E L
the act or process of making rare, give an explanation of that a substance used for various
thin, porous, or less dense. conforms with reason. purposes (as in detecting,
The rarefaction of air can be Chauvinists try to rationalize racial examining, or measuring other
accomplished with a vacuum pump, prejudice. substances, in preparing material,
but it is very difficult to achieve a in developing photographs)
true vacuum. rattail because it takes part in one or more
chemical reactions or biological
rarefy rattletrap processes.
Stuart explained that the substance
rareripe raucity used up first in the experiment is
n called a “limiting reagent.”
rariora / SrOsEZG / realgar
n pl L
/ Tra(a)rGSPrE / the quality or state of being realia
L disagreeably harsh or strident.
unusual collectors’ items. Fed up with the raucity of urban reamer
The old man’s study contained a street life, the Hamiltons moved to
whimsical mixture of rariora. a quiet suburb. reassurance
n
rasbora raucously / rGESshUrEn(t)s /
L > Ecf + L > F > E
rascal raunchy the action of inspiring or tending to
n inspire confidence again.
/ SraskEl / raven The coach’s reassurance was all
F? > E adj the encouragement Debbie needed
a mean, unprincipled, or dishonest / SrCvEn / to feel confident.
person. E
The children cheered during the [has homonym: ravin] of the color Reaumur
movie when the rascal fell to his or sheen of the raven, a large adj
doom. glossy-black bird. / SrCPTmyU(E)r /
Callie’s little sister had her heart F name
rasher set on the doll with raven curls. relating or conforming to a
thermometric scale on which under
rasorite rawhide standard atmospheric pressure the
boiling point of water is at 80
raspingly razor degrees above the 0 of the scale
adv and the freezing point is at 0.
/ SraspiNlG / reactionary Cecelia converted Celsius degrees
F into Reaumur degrees by
in a grating harsh manner. readily multiplying by four and dividing by
“Don’t try me,” he said in a five.
raspingly mean voice. readjourn
v rebiddable
ratel / TrGESjErn /
n L>F>E reblochon
/ SrCZFl / put off further proceedings of
D > Afrikaans again. rebuff
any of several powerful nocturnal When the court reconvened at two
carnivorous mammals resembling o’clock, the defense attorney rebuke
the badger and having the pelt ashy immediately asked the judge if she
gray above and black beneath. would readjourn the trial until the recalcitration
The ratel uses its strong claws for next day.
breaking open beehives to get its recamier
favorite food, honey.
Page 216 of 289

recant recommitment rectification
v n n
/ rDSkant / / TrGkESmitmEnt / / TrektEfDSkCshEn /
L L + Ecf L
withdraw or repudiate (a statement the act of pledging again to give the act or process of making or
or belief) formally and publicly. support to some policy or cause. setting right (as by correcting an
The witness decided to recant her The president urged a error or amending a fault).
testimony when she was shown the recommitment of the United Todd called the newspaper’s editor
photograph of the suspect at the Nations to the basic principles of to seek rectification of the
scene of the crime. human welfare. erroneous article.
recede recompensable rectifier

v n
/ rDSsGd / reconcilable / SrektETfI(E)r /
L L
move back or away. recoup a device for converting alternating
Buck watched the water recede as v current to direct current.
the tide went out. / rGSkVp / A vacuum tube can act as a
F rectifier in electronic machinery.
receivable compensate (as oneself) for
something (as expenses, losses). rectirostral
recency Dorene did not expect to recoup adj
her day-trading losses immediately. / TrektESrBstrEl /
reception L+L
recrement having a straight beak.
recession n Dowitchers are rectirostral shore
/ SrekrEmEnt / birds that feed in mud or shallow
recessional L water.
superfluous matter separated from
recessive that which is useful. rectitude
Slag is the recrement produced in n
reclamation smelting iron ore. / SrektETtVd /
L
reclusive recriminate strict observance of standards of
adj v integrity and honesty.
/ rDSklVsiv / / rDSkrimETnCt / Abraham Lincoln was renowned
L L for his moral rectitude.
marked by seclusion or retirement : make a counter accusation : charge
solitary. back a fault or crime against an rectitudinous
The reclusive movie star had not accuser.
given an interview for years, but Though she believed her accuser to recumbent
the media camped out in her be the guilty party, Chelsea refused adj
driveway nonetheless. to recriminate. / rDSkEmbEnt /
L
recollective recriminatory lying down.
adj Several sheep, recumbent in the
recommend / rDSkrimEnETtPrG / field, were roused and herded into
L their pen for the night.
recommended having the character or nature of a
v counter accusation. recumbentibus
/ TrekESmendDd / When charged with n
L insubordination, the soldier filed / TrekEmSbentDbEs /
advised, counseled. recriminatory charges against his L
The doctor recommended that commanding officer. a knockdown blow.
Robert get more sleep. The little old lady gave the purse
recruit snatcher a recumbentibus that
stunned witnesses and made her a
folk hero.
Page 217 of 289

recuperation redowa referendum
n n n
/ rDTk(y)VTpESrCshEn / / SredEwE / / TrefESrendEm /
L Czech > F > F L
restoration to health or strength. either of two popular Bohemian a popular vote on a measure passed
The doctor told Ernesto that his ballroom dances of the 19th upon or proposed by a legislative
recuperation after the skiing century. body or by popular initiative.
accident would take about two To Erica’s complete surprise, A referendum in Clay County
months. Ronald danced the redowa very raised the minimum age for
skillfully. purchasing alcohol to 21.
recurs
v reduce referral
/ rDSkErz /
L redundant referred
happens or takes place again. adj
Nikki has made great progress in / rDSdEndEnt / reflect
stopping her nail biting, but it is a L v
problem that recurs now and then. exceeding what is necessary or / rDSflekt /
normal : superfluous. L
recyclable The newspaper article proved to be think quietly and calmly.
adj more redundant than informative, Jimmy took time to reflect on his
/ rGSsIk(E)lEbEl / stating the same facts in several life goals.
L + Gk + Lcf different ways.
capable of being processed in order reflector
to regain material for human use. reek
Each office in the building has its v reflorescence
own receptacle for recyclable / SrGk /
paper. E reflorescent
give off a strong, often offensive
redaction odor. refractor
n Antiperspirant ads create the n
/ rDSdakshEn / impression that the human body / rDSfraktE(r) /
L will reek with sweat if the L
an act or instance of putting into a advertised product is not used. a telescope in which the principal
different written form. focusing element is a lens that is
Cindy did not realize that the reeled usually an achromat with crown
musical was a redaction of an 18th- glass and flint glass components.
century novel. reenactment The world’s largest refractor has
n an aperture of 40 inches.
redeeming / rGDSnak(t)mEnt /
E refrain
redemption the process of performing again.
The evening performance featured refrigerate
redivivus a reenactment of the role the actor
had made famous. refringent
redolence
refectory refugee
redouble n
/ rDSfekt(E)rG / refugeeism
redound L
a dining hall in a monastery, refund
convent, or religious college.
Brother Neil returned to the
refectory for dinner.
refer
Page 218 of 289

refurbish reify relinquished
v v v
/ rGSfErbish / / SrGETfI / / rDSliNwishd /
L > F > E + Gmc > F > E L L > F > E + Ecf
brighten or freshen up : renovate. regard an abstraction or mental let go of physically : stopped
Jeanne decided to refurbish her construction as a thing : convert holding : released.
bedroom with handmade curtains mentally into something concrete When the sled came to a stop,
and a new coat of paint. or objective. Bowser relinquished his hold on
Success in advanced mathematics Brian’s snow jacket.
refusal may depend on the ability to reify
abstract concepts. relinquishing
refute
v reign reliquiae
/ rDSfyVt / n pl
L reimbursable / rDSlikwETG /
overthrow by argument, evidence, adj L
or proof. / TrGDmSbErsEbEl / remains of the dead : organic
Try as he might, Richie could not L remains : relics.
refute his parents’ decision that he subject to repayment. Years after the war in Vietnam,
could not attend the party. Agatha’s medical insurance reliquiae are still being sent back
company did not consider a face- to the United States.
regaled lift a reimbursable expense.
reliquian
regelation reins
n pl reluctantly
regiminal / SrCnz / adv
L>F>E / rDSlEktEntlG /
regisseur [Note: The definition provided is L
n not the one most commonly unwillingly, grudgingly.
/ TrCzhGSsEr / associated with this word. In Elena reluctantly shared her candy
L>F addition, word has homonyms: bar with her little brother.
director : one that supervises the rains, reigns.] position of
production of a show with command. rem
responsibility for action, lighting, For some who have held the reins n
music, rehearsals, and generally for for so long, it is difficult to give up / Srem /
giving substance to the conception power. acronym
of the author. the dosage of any ionizing radiation
The regisseur met with the lighting rejoinder that will cause the same amount of
manager to discuss various ways of biological injury to human tissue as
using light to convey the mood of rejuvenescent 1 roentgen of X-ray or gamma-ray
the scene. dosage.
relative The rem takes into account the
register relative biologic effectiveness of
relaxed ionizing radiation.
registered
relentlessly remanence
registration adv
/ rDSlentlDslG / rembrandt
reglementary E n
in a mercilessly hard or harsh / SremTbrant /
regnant manner. D name
Frank relentlessly teased his sister. a dark grayish brown that is slightly
regressive less strong than average chocolate
relevant brown.
regular The color rembrandt is similar to
relieve the dark backgrounds of paintings
rehabilitant by the artist of the same name.
religion
Page 219 of 289

remediless remorseless renegade
adj adj n
/ SremEdGlDs / / rDSmO(E)rslDs / / SrenDTgCd /
L + Ecf L > F > E + Ecf L > Sp
having no relief or cure : having no distress arising from an individual who rejects the
irreparable. guilt for past wrongs. restraints of law or convention.
Maria’s whining can make the The vandals seemed to be Shana wanted people to think she
slightest difficulty seem remediless. remorseless, for they laughed when was a renegade, so she dyed her
the judge sentenced them. hair purple.
remember
v remote renewal
/ rDSmembE(r) /
L>F>E remuda reniform
bring to mind again : think of n adj
again. / rESmVdE / / SrenETfOrm /
Lonny could not remember the time L > Sp L
of his haircut appointment. the herd of saddle horses from resembling a mammalian kidney in
which are chosen those to be used shape;
remigrant for the day by the ranch hands : a specifically : bean-shaped in
relay of remounts. outline.
reminder The foreman told Jorge to go to the Highest on the preschool teacher’s
corral and choose another horse wish list was a reniform table.
remitment from the remuda.
renovate
remittent remunerate
renowned
remittitur remunerative adj
adj / rDSnaUnd /
remnant / rDSmyVnETrCZiv / E
L celebrated.
remonstrance serving to pay an equivalent for a Lake Geneva is a renowned inland
service, loss, or expense. sea.
remonstrate The governor instituted a new
program to help welfare recipients renunciant
remontant into remunerative employment.
adj renunciatory
/ rDSmBntFnt / renal
F adj reparative
flowering again. / SrGnFl /
Gretchen bought several remontant L repartimiento
roses for her garden. of, relating to, or involving the
kidneys. repatriate
remora Renal arteries divide into four or
n five branches and enter the hilum repatriation
/ SremErE / of the kidney.
L repeal
any of a family of marine fishes renascent
that have the front upper fin repeater
modified into a suctorial disk by rend
means of which they cling v
especially to other fishes. / Srend /
While receiving a free ride on the E
shark, the remora rid it of the divide (as a nation) into parties.
parasites on its skin. The dispute over the need for a new
educational wing will probably
rend the church’s congregation
permanently.
rendition
Page 220 of 289

repentant repose requital
adj n
/ rDSpentFnt / / rDSpPz / reredos
L L
experiencing contrition for one’s a state of rest. reresupper
sins together with the dedication of Caleb headed for the hammock,
oneself to the abandonment of hoping he could enjoy a few hours rescissible
unworthy purposes and values and of much-needed repose.
to the amendment of one’s life. rescission
When Scarlett O’Hara finally representative n
understood what Rhett Butler n / rDSsizhEn /
meant to her, she was repentant for / TreprDSzentEZiv / L
the many wrongs she had done him. L>F>E an act of annulling or of cancelling.
one that serves a constituency as a Bob’s comment about his mom’s
repercuss member of a governing body. rescission of his restrictions is
Brady felt honored when he was wishful thinking.
repercussion elected to be his homeroom’s
n representative to student council. rescissory
/ TrGpE(r)SkEshEn /
L reproachable reservoirs
an impact, action, or effect given or
exerted in return : a reciprocal repugnant resignation
action or effect.
Danny kicked Raul out of the club repugnatorial resiliently
without fear of repercussion.
repulsion resolutive
repetend
reputable resolvancy
repetiteur
n reputation resolve
/ TrCTpCZEStEr / n v
L>F / TrepyEStCshEn / / rDSzBlv /
a singing coach; especially : one L L
who coaches singers in operatic a particular character in popular find an answer to, clear up, or
roles. estimation or ascription. successfully deal with.
As part of her comeback strategy, The old dilapidated house had a Blair’s role as a professional
the diva hired a famous repetiteur. reputation for being haunted. mediator is to resolve disputes
between two or more parties.
replete reputed
adj adj resonant
/ rDSplGt / / rDSpyVZDd / adj
L L / Srez(F)nEnt /
fully or abundantly provided : well held in estimation. L
supplied. Frans hails from one of the most continuing or capable of continuing
The test preparation booklet is reputed law firms in the state. to sound.
replete with examples of various Rory marveled at the resonant tone
types of questions. requesting of the church bells.
replicate requisition resorcinol

v n n
/ SreplETkCt / / TrekwESzishEn / / rDzSOrsDTnOl /
L L (L + It? + Lcf + L?) > ISV
duplicate, repeat. a written request for something (as a soluble crystalline acidic
For an experiment to be considered materials, supplies, or personnel) compound obtained from various
valid, scientists must be able to authorized but not made available resins or artificially and used
replicate it independently. automatically. especially in making dyes,
The teacher filled out a requisition pharmaceuticals, and resins.
for the supplies to be requested on Resorcinol is now commonly used
a purchase order. in making adhesives for wood.
Page 221 of 289

resort resuscitable revelatory
adj adj
resourcefulness / rDSsEsEZEbEl / / rDSvelETtPrG /
n L L
/ rGSsP(E)rsfElnDs / capable of being revived from serving to disclose something (as
L > F + Ecff apparent death or from character or conditions).
fertility in devising ways and unconsciousness. Revelatory interviews with gang
means. The rescued swimmer was members brought to light their
Ingmarie’s resourcefulness made unconscious but considered goals, routines, and mentality.
up for her lack of artistic resuscitable.
experience. revelrous
retainer
respectable revelry
retaliate n
respirometer / SrevElrG /
n retaliator E
/ TrespESrBmEZE(r) / boisterous merrymaking.
L + Gk retaliatory The revelry at campaign
an instrument for studying the headquarters began after the
character and extent of the reticent arrival of the winning candidate.
consumption of oxygen.
Eggs and seeds have been studied retinitis revendicate
using a respirometer. v
retorts / rDSvendETkCt /
resplendent n pl L>F
/ rDStO(E)rts / recover by a formal demand for
responsible L restoration.
quick sharp witty cutting or severe After German reunification, many
restaurant replies. who had emigrated to the West
n Alison’s retorts quickly got on Mrs. during the Cold War attempted to
/ SreTstrBnt / Turner’s nerves. revendicate their former homes.
L>F
an establishment where retributive reverberance
refreshments or meals may be
procured by the public : a public retrieval review
eating house. v
Health inspectors visited Nellie’s retrocede / rGSvyV /
restaurant three times before they v F
would allow it to reopen. / TretrESsGd / [has homonym: revue] study anew.
L Isidora did not have time to review
resurgency give back (a territory or her lecture notes before the exam.
jurisdiction) usually by treaty.
resurrect In 1783 Great Britain agreed to revision
v retrocede to Spain all the territory
/ TrezESrekt / that Spain had turned over to Great revisory
L>E Britain in 1763.
raise from the dead : restore to life. revivalist
Emily hopes to resurrect the plans retrograde
for the Junior-Senior Banquet. adj revivifier
/ SretrETgrCd /
resurrected L revolution
v moving, directed, or tending in a n
/ TrezESrekZDd / backward direction. / TrevESlVshEn /
L The soldiers fought a retrograde L
brought to view, attention, or use action. completion by a celestial body of
again. an orbit or elliptic course.
Martha made a dessert from a retroussage The year is defined as the time it
resurrected recipe in a newspaper takes for Earth to make one
clipping from the 19th century. revehent revolution around the Sun.
Page 222 of 289

revolver rhetorically rhizomatous
adv adj
revolving / rDStOrDk(E)lG / / rISzBmEZEs /
Gk + Ecff Gk > L
revuist in a manner using the art of having the characteristics of or
expressive speech or discourse. resembling a somewhat elongate
revulsion Susan threw up her hands and usually horizontal subterranean
asked rhetorically what would plant stem.
reward happen to her next. Canna, certain types of iris, and the
calla lily are all rhizomatous.
rhabdoid rheum
adj n rhizome
/ SrabTdOid / / SrVm /
Gk + Gk > Ecf Gk rhodopsin
shaped like a rod. [has homonym: room] a watery n
Tests indicated that Jeremy had a discharge from the mucous / rPSdBpsDn /
rhabdoid tumor in his kidney. membranes especially of the eyes Gk + Gk
or nose. a red photosensitive pigment in the
rhadamanthine Catarrhs and colds are marked by retinal rods of marine fishes and
adj rheum as well as other symptoms. most higher vertebrates that is
/ TradESman(t)thDn / important for vision in dim light.
Gk name rhinal A deficiency of vitamin A results in
rigorously just. adj a loss of rhodopsin and could lead
Though the students did not always / SrInFl / to night blindness.
like Mrs. Moss’s decisions, they Gk
respected her rhadamanthine of or relating to the nose. rhonchus
judgment. The rhinal cavity lies between the n
cranium and the roof of the mouth / SrBNkEs /
rhagadiform and extends from the nostrils to the Gk > L
pharynx. a whistling or snoring sound heard
rhapsodic on auscultation of the chest when
adj rhinencephalon the air channels are partly
/ rapSsBdik / n obstructed.
Gk / TrInTDnSsefETlBn / When the doctor detected a
extravagantly emotional : Gk rhonchus with his stethoscope, he
rapturous. the anterior inferior part of the suspected pneumonia.
The singer grew rhapsodic as he forebrain that is chiefly concerned
sang of the virtues of his beloved. with the sense of smell. rhyparography
An electrode was inserted into the
rhapsodize rhinencephalon during the rhythmic
experiment. adj
rhapsody / SriLmik /
rhinologic Gk
rhathymia marked by pronounced rhythm :
rhinoplasty regularly recurrent.
rheostatic The rhythmic movements of the
rhinorrhagia waltz were very soothing to Laurie
rhesus n after dancing the mashed potato.
n / TrInESrCj(G)E /
/ SrGsEs / Gk > L rhythmical
Gk > L nosebleed.
a pale brown Asian monkey often After the fifth round the boxer had rhytidome
used in medical research. to be treated for rhinorrhagia.
A rhesus was the first monkey to be rhyton
rocketed into the stratosphere. rhinoscopy
ria
rhetorical rhinotracheitis
Page 223 of 289

riant rinderpest ritualistic
adj
/ SrIEnt / ringent ritzy
L
pleasingly mirthful. ringleader rivalless
The riant hostess spread good adj
cheer from guest to guest rinse / SrIvEl(l)Ds /
throughout the evening. L + Ecf
riot being without a competitive equal.
ribaldry The young Russian couple was
rioter considered rivalless in the world of
ribbon ice dancing.
riotous
ricketiness riverbank
rippling
rickey adj rivet
/ Srip(E)liN / n
riddle Flemish? / SrivDt /
having a fretted or highly ruffled F>E
riddling surface. a headed pin or bolt of some
The rippling stream held plenty of malleable material used for uniting
ridiculosity trout, beaver, and crayfish. two or more pieces.
Mr. Churchill placed a rivet in
ridiculously ripsnorter Mrs. Bates’s spectacles, which
adv have never been at fault since.
/ rDSdikyElEslG / riptide
L>F riviera
in an absurd, laughable, or risibles n
preposterous manner. / TrivGSerE /
The professor was ridiculously risorgimento L > F > Mediterranean geog name
absent-minded and became the butt n a coastline much frequented as a
of many jokes. / (T)rGTsO(r)jDSmen(T)tP / resort area and usually having a
L > It mild climate.
rifamycin a time of renewal or renaissance : Students flocked to the Florida
revival. riviera during spring break.
riffraff During the Victorian Age the
English novel experienced a roadster
righteousness risorgimento.
robbery
rightfully ritardando n
adv / SrBb(E)rG /
rigidify / TrGTtBrSdBn(T)dP / F>E
L > It the act of stealing by violence or
rimosely with a gradual slackening in tempo. threat of violence.
“Again! You must play that The FBI was called in to help solve
rimulose passage ritardando,” the conductor the armored car robbery.
adj exhorted.
/ SrimyETlPs / robust
L ritual
having small chinks or fissures. n rocketry
With a magnifying glass the / Srich(E)wEl /
rimulose structure of the lichen L roguery
became apparent. the forms of conducting a
devotional service especially as
rimy established by tradition : the
prescribed order and words of a
rinceau religious ceremony.
The Passover seder is filled with
rind spoken ritual and symbolic foods.
Page 224 of 289

roguish roque rosorial
adj n
/ SrPgish / / SrPk / rotatable
unknown F
dishonest, unprincipled. croquet played on a hard-surfaced rote
The roguish salesman tried to court having a raised border used as
convince Barbara that the car was a cushion in bank shots. rottweiler
in perfect condition. The city athletic club allows n
members to play roque on the roof. / SrBtTwITlE(r) /
roguishly G geog name
rorqual a dog of the breed of tall vigorous
roister n black cattle dogs having short hair,
/ SrOrkwEl / tan or brown markings, a short tail,
rollicking ON > Norw > F and small drooping ears.
any of a family of large baleen Sam’s rottweiler was an imposing
romaine whales (as a blue whale or guard dog.
humpback whale) having the skin
romantic of the throat marked with deep rotunda
longitudinal furrows.
romeo A rorqual filters its food out of the roturier
n water by means of baleen plates
/ SrPmGTP / growing down from the roof of its rouleau
Shakespearean name mouth. n
a man’s slipper or shoe with a high / rVSlP /
backing quarter, high front, and rosaceous F
usually U-shaped elastic gores at adj [Note: Plural form can be
the sides. / rPSzCshEs / pronounced identically.] a roll of
The romeo on display was made of L coins put up in paper.
one piece of black felt. of, relating to, or resembling a rose, Rhea counted her dimes and found
especially in having a five-petaled that she had enough for a rouleau.
rondeau regular corolla.
n Apple, pear, peach, and cherry rounce
/ SrBn(T)dP / trees have rosaceous blossoms.
F roundabout
[has homonym: rondo] a fixed roseate adj
form of verse usually of 15 lines. adj / SraUndETbaUt /
Shona sat up half the night / SrPzGDt / E+E
polishing the rondeau she would L deviating from a straight line or
read the next day aloud to the overly optimistic or pleasing. course.
class. The commentator seemed roseate The storm forced the pilot to take a
as he predicted a quick end to the roundabout path.
rookery strike.
n roundlet
/ SrUkErG / roseleaf n
F>E / SraUndlDt /
a breeding ground or common roseroot F>E
haunt of gregarious birds or n a 15th-century hat for men with a
animals (as rooks, herons, / SrPzTrVt / round padded edge and loose
penguins, or seals); also : a colony Gk > L > E + ON > E drapery forming the crown and
of such birds or animals. a perennial fleshy herb whose hanging over the edge.
Construction of the factory will subterranean parts have a floral Fashionable men in the mid-15th
jeopardize the rookery. odor. century wore pleated, fur-trimmed
Lorna planted roseroot along the tunics, fitted hose, and on their
sidewalk. heads, the roundlet.
rosette
rosinante
Page 225 of 289

roundsters rubble ruddy
n pl n adj
/ SraUn(d)ztE(r)z / / SrEbEl / / SrEdG /
E + Ecff E E
the privilege in marbles of shooting broken fragments of stone and having or marked by a reddish
from any point on the ring line. other matter resulting from the color associated with the glow of
If your shooter goes outside the decay or destruction of a building. good health or a suffusion of blood
ring line, you may take roundsters. The unkempt man sitting on a pile (as from exercise, excitement,
of rubble is a reporter who is doing exposure).
rouse a feature story on the homeless. Working in the sugarcane fields
v has given Caleb a ruddy
/ SraUz / rube complexion.
E
kindle to intensity : excite, inflame. rubescent rudenture
The producer of the documentary
on poverty hopes to rouse passion rubicelle rudiments
among many viewers for the long n pl
term. Rubicon / SrVdEmEnts /
n L
rousing / SrVbETkBn / fundamental skills taught or learned
L (as in an elementary school).
roussette a bounding or limiting line; Reading, writing, and arithmetic
especially : one that when crossed are the rudiments of elementary
rout commits a person to an irrevocable school education.
change or decision.
route Alta put off choosing a college rued
major because she felt that to do so v
routine would be crossing the Rubicon. / SrVd /
n E
/ rVStGn / rubify [has homonyms: rood, rude] felt
F regret for.
a standardized piece of rubricated How many a man has committed
entertainment or showmanship; v himself on a short acquaintance
specifically : a theatrical number. / SrVbrETkCZDd / and rued it all the rest of his life!
An emcee introduced each routine L rueful
in the variety show. provided with a heading adj
distinguished by being done in a / SrVfEl /
routinely color (as red) different from the rest E
of the text or by some other device. feeling or expressing sorrow or pity
routinize Mr. Byas was certain that the : mournful.
rubricated manuscript was written Grandpa grew a bit rueful as he
roux by Celia, an especially creative recalled the missed opportunities of
n student. his life.
/ SrV /
F rubrofugal rufescent
[has homonyms: roo, rue] a adj
mixture of flour and fat cooked ruction / rVSfesFnt /
sometimes until the flour browns n L
and used to thicken soups and / SrEkshEn / reddish.
sauces. L? Minga decided to apply more
After deglazing the pan with white a noisy rough-and-tumble fight. sunscreen to her shoulders when
wine, Graham added a roux made A fierce ruction broke out in the she saw how rufescent they looked.
of flour and butter. angry crowd, and the police had to
intervene. ruffianize
rowdyism
ruffianly
royale
ruffled
royalty
Page 226 of 289

rugged rutherford sabot
adj n n
/ SrEgDd / / SrELE(r)fE(r)d / / saSbP /
Scand > E E name F
harsh, ungentle. a unit strength of a radioactive a wooden work shoe worn in
The welder’s rugged demeanor source corresponding to 1 million various European countries.
belied his warm heart. disintegrations per second. An ill-fitting sabot can cause
Avery could easily calculate painful blisters.
rumfustian radioactive strength to the nearest
rutherford, but it was difficult for saccharimeter
runic him to conceive just how fast 1
adj million disintegrations per second saccharine
/ SrVnik / really was.
ON&E + Ecf saccharinity
relating to an alphabet of angular ruthful n
characters used for inscriptions and / TsakESrinEZG /
magic signs by the Germanic ruthless Skt > Pali > Gk > L+ Ecf
peoples from about the 3rd to the adj the quality or state of being sweet :
13th centuries and especially by the / SrVthlDs / sweetness.
Scandinavians and Anglo-Saxons. E Amy said that she couldn’t finish
Runic research in the ’30s and ’40s merciless, pitiless. her chocolate dessert because its
was so tainted by Nazi ideology Thomas was ruthless in the honesty saccharinity was too much for her
that the information from this with which he declared his taste.
period is considered useless to any opinions.
serious student of Teutonic lore. saccharoid
rutile
rupicolous sackbut
adj rutted
/ rVSpikElEs / adj sackcloth
L+L / SrEtDd /
living among, inhabiting, or F? sacrament
growing on rocks. having or marked by tracks worn
The crayfish is a rupicolous by a wheel or by habitual passage sacred
crustacean. of anything. adj
He guided them along one of five / SsCkrDd /
rustication narrow ledges, all of which led to a L
grooved and rutted plateau. devoted exclusively to the service
rustling or use (as of a particular person,
n rye purpose, or group).
/ SrEs(E)liN / The fund organizers promised that
E sabin all the monies collected would be
[has near homonym: wrestling] the n sacred to charity.
stealing of cattle. / SsCbDn /
When the sheriff was informed Am name sacrilegious
about the rustling, he assembled a [Note: Alternate pronunciation has
posse to round up the thieves. homonym: sabine.] a unit of sacristan
acoustic absorption equivalent to n
the absorption by 1 square foot of a / SsakrDstEn /
perfect absorber (as an open L
window). an officer of a church in charge of
In sound absorption, calculations the room where the sacred utensils
measured by the sabin, and vestments are kept.
reverberation time, and volume of The sacristan counted the
the room are critical factors. communion plates at the end of the
service and stacked them on a
shelf.
sadiron
Page 227 of 289

sadistic saliferous salutatorian
adj n
safeguard / sESlif(E)rEs / / sETlVZEtPrGEn /
n L L + Ecf
/ SsCfTgBrd / producing, impregnated with, or the graduating student who is
F>E containing salt. usually second highest in rank and
a means of protection against The tour guide recommended that who in some institutions delivers
something undesirable. the tourists resist the urge to taste the salutatory oration.
The police wore bulletproof vests the saliferous formations in the No one was more surprised than
as a safeguard against terrorist mine. Sharonne when she was named
attacks. salutatorian of her class.
sallow
saffian adj salute
/ Ssa(T)lP /
saga E salvageable
n of a grayish greenish yellow color adj
/ SsBgE / suggesting sickliness—usually used / SsalvijEbEl /
ON of the skin or complexion. L > F + Ecf
an episodic story centering about a Neil’s lethargy and sallow skin capable of being rescued or saved
usually heroic figure of earlier alarmed his mother. especially from wreckage or ruin.
ages. After the tornado hit their
Rubin traced the motif to a 13th saloon neighborhood, the residents
century Icelandic saga. returned to look for anything
saltatory salvageable.
sagely adj
adv / SsaltETtPrG / samara
/ SsCjlG / L
L>F>E of or relating to dancing. sameness
in a wise or prudent manner. Tiffany, dressed in her new leotard,
Vera invested her savings sagely. took a few saltatory steps around sanative
the living room.
saiga sanatory
n saltcellar
/ SsIgE / sanctimony
Jagatai > Russ saltimbocca
a sheeplike antelope of Siberia and n sanctuary
eastern Russia having ringed horns / TsOltimSbB(k)kE /
and tufts of long hair beneath the It sandbar
eyes and ears. scallops of veal prepared with sage,
The most outstanding feature of the slices of ham, and sometimes sandhi
saiga is its swollen snout with cheese and served with a wine
downward-directed nostrils. sauce. sane
Connor took a second serving of
sailboat saltimbocca from the buffet. sanglier
sala saltire sangria
salariat salubrious sanicle

n
salary / SsanDkEl /
n L>F>E
/ Ssal(E)rG / [has near homonyms: cenacle,
L cynical] any of several plants
fixed compensation paid regularly reputed to have healing powers.
for services. A sanicle by the name of “black
When Henrik switched over to a snakeroot” yields a drug that is
salary, he earned less than when he used to treat St. Vitus’s dance.
was paid by the hour.
sanity
Page 228 of 289

Santeria sarcastic sashimi
n n
/ TsanteSrGE / sarcolysis / SsBshEmG /
AmerSp n Jpn
a religion practiced originally in / sBrSkBlEsDs / raw fish served as an appetizer and
Cuba. Gk usually accompanied by a
Santeria identifies Yoruba deities the disintegration or dissolution of condiment.
with Roman Catholic saints. muscular tissue. At the reception, waiters in black
Examination of the patient’s heart tie passed trays of sashimi and
sapajou revealed areas of advanced other hors d’oeuvres.
n sarcolysis.
/ SsapETjV / Sasquatch
Tupi > F sarcoma n
a long-tailed South American n / SsasTkwBch /
monkey with the hair on its crown / sBrSkPmE / Halkomelem
resembling a monk’s cowl—called Gk a large hairy humanlike creature
also “capuchin.” a malignant tumor arising in that is reported to exist in the
Some zoologists believe that the connective tissue and especially in northwestern United States and
sapajou is the most intelligent of bone, cartilage, or striated muscle. western Canada—called also
the New World monkeys. The sarcoma in Pat’s arm was “bigfoot.”
treated early enough to prevent Periodically, someone reports that
sapient serious impairment. they have seen Sasquatch.
sapling sarcophilous satisfactorily
saponify sardonically satisfy

v adv
/ sESpBnETfI / / TsBrSdBnDk(E)lG / satori
L>F Gk > F n
convert (as a fat or fatty acid) into in a manner characterized by / sEStPrG /
soap. derision or scorn : with an attitude Jpn
The chart indicated that 12 ounces disdainfully or skeptically sudden enlightenment and a state of
of lye would completely saponify an humorous. consciousness attained by intuitive
ounce of the fat in question. Nancy remarked sardonically that illumination representing the
the best economic situation for the spiritual goal of Zen Buddhism.
saponin country would be a major war. The primary method of achieving
n satori is through the use of koans—
/ SsapEnDn / Sardoodledom riddles that enhance meditation.
L>F n
any of numerous glycosides that / sBrSdVdFldEm / saturator
occur in many plants (as soapbark, F name
soapwort) that are characterized by mechanically contrived plot Saturnian
their properties of foaming in structure and stereotyped or n
water. unrealistic characterization in / sEStErnGEn /
The hiker found some soapbark, drama : melodrama. L
pounded it underwater with a rock Excellent acting and directing a hypothetical inhabitant of the
to release the saponin, and used the masked the play’s Sardoodledom. planet Saturn.
resulting suds for a satisfying bath. A Saturnian was the villain in
sarrusophone Margaret’s story about life in
sapphirine space.
sappy saturnism
sapremia
saprogenic
saprophytic
Page 229 of 289

sault scagliola scatheless
n n adj
/ SsV / / skalSyPlE / / SskCLlDs /
L>F>E Gmc > It ON > E
[has homonyms: Sioux, sou, sue] a an imitation of ornamental marble [Note: Speller might confuse first
fall or rapid in a river. used for floors, columns, and other component with scath.] being
The canoeists, taken by surprise, ornamental interior work. without injury or damage :
barely made it through the sault. After a few years the scagliola in unharmed.
the hotel lobby began to look Fortunately, the Wagner family
sauna shabby. survived the earthquake scatheless.
sauntered scalable scattered

v
/ SsOntE(r)d / scalare scavenger
E
walked about idly and in a leisurely scalariform scenarist
manner.
Count von Saurau sauntered along scald scene
the shore with not a care in the v
world. / SskOld / scenery
L>F>E
saurophagous bring (a liquid) to a temperature schapping
just below the boiling point.
sauterelle To make perfect cocoa, first scald schedule
the milk.
savagely schematic
adv scalded
/ SsavijlG / schematically
E scalepan
in a ferocious manner. schloss
Nora struck her father savagely scallion n
with her little fists. / SshlOs /
scalper G
savant a German castle or manor house.
scanty Gretchen and Anders returned to
sawdust the schloss after a hard day of
scapegoat skiing.
sawyer
scarabaeiform schnauzer
saxifrage adj
n / TskarESbGETfOrm / schneider
/ SsaksEfrij / L+E n
L resembling a family of stout-bodied / SshnIdE(r) /
a member of a genus of plants with beetles of subsocial habits (as the G
showy five-part flowers and usually tumblebugs). failure of the loser of a game of gin
with leaves growing in tufts close One or more scarabaeiform beetles rummy to score any point.
to the ground. were regarded by the ancient If the loser has failed to score, the
Many types of saxifrage grow well Egyptians as symbolic of game is a shutout, or schneider,
in rocky alpine soil. resurrection and immortality. and the winner’s total score is
doubled.
saxifragous scarcely
scabbling
scabrid
scaffolding
Page 230 of 289

scholar scopolamine scrapie
n n
/ SskBlE(r) / / skESpBlETmGn / scrawl
Gk It name + G > ISV
[has near homonym: sculler] one an alkaloid occurring in certain scree
who has engaged in advanced study plants that is used in the prevention n
and acquired the minutiae of of motion sickness. / SskrG /
knowledge in some special field Cindy took scopolamine before the Scand
along with accuracy and skill in long car trip. a heap of stones or rocky debris
investigation and powers of critical lying on a slope or at the base of a
analysis in interpretation of such scorched cliff.
knowledge. The climbing instructor cleared the
Darlene’s goal is to be a renowned scordatura slope of scree before allowing the
Shakespeare scholar. novices to begin their ascent.
scorekeeper
scholarship screwdriver
scornfully
scholastic adv scribblative
/ SskO(E)rnfElG /
scholium Gmc > F > E + Ecff scribbled
contemptuously, disdainfully.
school When Ken complained that he was scribe
n too tired to continue playing, the
/ SskVl / others scornfully called him a scrimpy
Gk > L > E “baby.” adj
[Note: The definition provided is scorpion / SskrimpG /
not the one most commonly Scand
associated with this word.] a large scotoma small or barely sufficient in size or
number of one kind of fish or other quantity.
aquatic animals swimming or scoundrelly The living room was too scrimpy
feeding together. for a couch.
A school of dolphins surfaced scourged
alongside the yacht and v scripophily
accompanied it for about five / SskErjd / n
minutes. L>F>E / skriSpBfElG /
subjected to severe criticism or L + Gk
schuyt satire. a collection of old stock and bond
Even Tom’s friends found his certificates.
scissel campaign speech, which scourged The rarest item in Jill’s scripophily
the school administration, is a General Motors stock
scissile inappropriate. certificate from 1918.
sclerodermatous scramasax scripture

adj
/ TsklirPSdErmEZEs / scrape scrivenery
Gk + Gk n
having a hard external covering (as / SskrCp / scrobiculate
of bony plates or horny scales). ON > E adj
The armadillo is a good example of [Note: The definition provided is / skrPSbikyETlDt /
a sclerodermatous animal. not the one most commonly L
associated with this word.] a bare having numerous shallow grooves
scobiform place or hollow made by scratching or depressions : pitted.
or digging. A golf ball is scrobiculate.
scoff Carrie watched in awe as a doe
and four baby rabbits emerged
from a scrape.
scraper
Page 231 of 289

scrofulous scumble seaworthiness
adj v
/ SskrOfyElEs / / SskEmbEl / secant
L D>E
having a diseased run-down soften the lines or colors of (a secesh
appearance. drawing) by rubbing lightly (as
The mayoral candidate promised to with a finger). secluded
rehabilitate the city’s scrofulous The art teacher showed her
neighborhoods. students how to scumble an area of seclusive
canvas to achieve a softer effect.
scrounge secrecy
scurried n
scrubbing / SsGkrEsG /
scurviness L>E
scrumptiously the habit or practice of maintaining
scutage privacy or concealment.
scruple n Secrecy seems to be inherent in
/ SskyVZij / government administration.
scrutable L
a tax or fine levied against one who secret
scrutiny does not render required military
n service. secretary
/ SskrVt(F)nG / The young man resolved to pay the
L scutage rather than join the duke’s secrete
a searching study or inquiry : army.
investigation. secretory
Close scrutiny revealed that the scuttle
new edition of the textbook was not secretum
significantly different from the old Scylla
edition. n sect
/ SsilE / n
scuba Gk name / Ssekt /
a destructive peril—usually used as L
scudded the alternative to Charybdis. a group within an organized
v With no good outcome possible, religion whose adherents recognize
/ SskEdEd / Chester found himself caught a special set of teachings or
Scand? between Scylla and Charybdis. practices.
moved or ran swiftly especially as The Dead Sea Scrolls were written
if driven forward. scythestone by a Jewish sect that split from the
Behind the trees, clouds scudded n mainstream over matters of
frantically across the sky. / SsILTstPn / sacrifices and ritual purity.
E+E
scullion a whetstone for sharpening a sectator
n scythe.
/ SskElyEn / The scythestone was cut from a secular
L>F>E fine-grained porous sandstone.
a kitchen helper. secured
Dru’s first job was working as a seagirt
scullion in a local restaurant. sedan
searingly
adv sedate
/ SsiEriNlG /
E + Ecf sedative
in a manner causing withering or
drying.
The noonday sun blazed searingly
on the withered corn.
seaweed
Page 232 of 289

sederunt selenium seminar
n n n
/ sDSdirEnt / / sDSlGnGEm / / SsemETnBr /
L Gk L
a prolonged sitting (as for a nonmetallic toxic element that is a group of advanced students
relaxation, reading, or discussion). related to sulfur and tellurium and studying a subject under a
The seat under the vine trellis is resembles them chemically. professor, each doing some original
Mark and Linda’s favorite place Selenium is used chiefly as a research, and all exchanging results
for an evening sederunt. pigment and in photoelectric cells, by informal lectures, reports, and
rectifiers, and other electronic discussions.
seemingly devices. Competition for acceptance in the
spy novel seminar was intense.
seepage selfish
semiotics
segetal selfless n pl
adj / TseTmGSBZiks /
segment / SselflDs / Gk
E a general philosophical theory of
segmentate having no concern for self. signs and symbols that deals
adj Gail’s selfless actions during the especially with their function in
/ SsegmEnTtCt / flood earned her the gratitude of all both artifically constructed and
L her neighbors. natural languages.
composed of constituent parts into Dr. Perry’s paper on semiotics was
which a body is or may be divided : semainier well received at the linguistics
section, division. n seminar.
The segmentate abdomen of an / sESmen(T)yC /
insect may have as many as 11 L>F semitropical
divisions. a tall chest with seven drawers for adj
use in a bedroom or dressing room. / TsemGStrBpDkEl /
segno Sylvia purchased an antique L + Gk > L + Ecf
semainier and used it for storing of, relating to, or being the regions
segregable her hosiery and undergarments. bordering on the tropical zone.
The Conways are planning to
segregate semantic spend their retirement years in
semitropical Florida.
seidel semanticist
sempiternal
seigneur semantics
n n pl semplice
/ sCnSyEr / / sDSmantiks /
L>F Gk > F senatorial
[has near homonyms: saner, the study dealing with the relations
senior, senor] a lord or gentleman. between signs and what they refer senescing
Phillip’s expensive clothes and to, the relations between the signs
imposing personality gave him the of a system, and human behavior in senility
air of a grand seigneur. reaction to signs. n
A student survey revealed that the / sDSnilEZG /
seismic topic of body language was the L
most interesting aspect of the the loss of mental faculties
seize course in semantics. associated with old age.
Grandpa Wilson’s confused mental
seized semblance state and lapses of memory were
taken to be signs of encroaching
sejunction semicircle senility.
senium
sensation
Page 233 of 289

sensational septum serial
n n
sensile / SseptEm / / SsirGEl /
L L
sensitometer the bony and cartilaginous partition [has homonym: cereal] a motion
between the nasal passages. picture or radio or television play
sensorium Morris complained of a sharp pain presented in a number of
in his septum. successive installments or
sensuous continued indefinitely.
sequitur Mom has for years been a devotee
sentimentality n of the serial Days of Our Lives.
/ SsekwDZE(r) /
separability L sericulture
n an inference that follows from a n
/ Tsep(E)rESbilEZG / premise. / SserETkElchE(r) /
L Given that there is no water on L+E
the quality or state of being capable Mars, a sequitur that can be drawn the production of raw silk by
of being detached or disassociated. is that on Mars there is no life as raising silkworms.
One of the most widely held we know it. About A.D. 550 two Persian monks
religious beliefs is the separability smuggled silkworms out of China
of the soul from the body. sequoia in their hollow bamboo canes, and
sericulture was begun in
separation serendipity Constantinople.
n
separatory / TserDnSdipEZG / serious
Ar geog name adj
sepiment an assumed gift for finding / SsirGEs /
valuable or agreeable things not L>F
septennate sought for. [has homonyms: cereous, Cereus]
In the movie Paris When it Sizzles, grave in disposition, appearance, or
septic Audrey Hepburn’s character manner.
adj defines serendipity as “waking up Even the perennially serious
/ Sseptik / in the morning and seeing there’s a clergyman showed some
Gk whole new day and going lightheartedness at the church
characterized by or producing absolutely ape.” picnic.
bacterial decomposition. serenely
Septic action takes place at the adv seriously
bottom of a septic tank. / sDSrGnlG /
L + Ecf serotonin
septicentennial in a calm or peaceful manner. n
The balloon ride was serenely / TsirEStPnDn /
septifragal smooth. L+L
a brain chemical that serves as a
Septuagint serenity neurotransmitter, the lack of which
n n may cause depression.
/ sepSt(y)VEjDnt / / sDSrenEZG / In animal studies, scientists
L L discovered that low serotonin levels
a Greek translation of the Jewish the quality or state of being calm or may be associated with impulsive
Scriptures prepared in the third and peaceful. or risky behavior.
second centuries B.C. by about 70 Nothing ruffled the serenity of her
Jewish scholars. expression. serpentarium
The Septuagint was intended to
satisfy the needs of the Greek- serpentile
speaking Jews of Egypt whose
knowledge of Hebrew was
inadequate.
Page 234 of 289

serpentine sesame settleable
adj
/ SsErpEnTtGn / sesamoid settlement
L adj
winding or turning one way and / SsesETmOid / settlers
another. Gk n pl
All the tourists love to drive down of, relating to, or being a nodular / SseZFlE(r)z /
the steep serpentine street. mass of bone or cartilage in a E
tendon especially where the tendon those who first move into a new
sertulum passes over a joint or some bony region : colonists.
n prominence. The settlers sat about on the
/ SsErchElEm / The doctor decided that the wooden sidewalks in the little town
L sesamoid mass was not impairing and complained about the land and
a collection of scientifically studied the use of Maria’s elbow and did the weather.
plants. not need to be surgically removed.
The health food experts designed a several
sertulum of all cruciferous sesquilateral adj
vegetables. / Ssev(E)rEl /
sessile L>F>E
serval adj consisting of an indefinite number
n / SsesEl / more than two and fewer than
/ SsErvEl / L many usually of the same class or
L > Pg > F permanently attached : not free to group.
[has homonym: servile] a long- move about. The grade distribution on the final
legged African wildcat having large Sea anemones are sessile and must exam was two A’s, several B’s, and
ears and a tawny black-spotted wait for their food to come to them. one C.
coat.
The serval is a nocturnal hunter, seston severe
preying on birds, rodents, and n adj
hares. / SseTstBn / / sDSvi(E)r /
Gk > G L
servant minute material moving in water strict or uncompromising in
and including both living judgment, discipline, or
service organisms (as plankton and nekton) government.
n and nonliving matter (as plant Archibald’s temper was severe and
/ SsErvDs / debris or suspended soil particles). arbitrary.
L>F>E The high concentration of seston in
[Note: The definition provided is the lagoon gave it a cloudy sevillana
not the one most commonly appearance. n
associated with this word.] the act / TsCvG(l)SyBnE /
of putting the ball in play in any of seta Sp
various net or court games (as n the seguidilla as played or danced
tennis). / SsGZE / in Seville.
Serena foot-faulted twice during L As a child, Margarita learned to
the service. any of numerous slender typically dance the sevillana.
rigid or bristly and springy parts of
servitor animals or plants. sexagenarian
The microscope made each seta on
servomotor the body of the caterpillar stand sextant
n out. n
/ SsEr(T)vPTmPZEr / / SsekstEnt /
L setaceous L
a power-driven mechanism that an instrument for measuring
supplements a primary control setigerous altitudes of celestial bodies from a
operated by a comparatively feeble moving ship.
force. setscrew Chaucer was an expert in the use of
The servomotor that powers the sextant.
Sassan’s toy robot burns out settee
frequently.
Page 235 of 289

sfumato sheldrake shoaly
n
/ sfVSmB(T)tP / shellacking shoddiness
L > It
the definition of form without shepherd shoddy
abrupt outline by delicate gradation adj
from light to shadow. shiatsu / SshBdG /
The museum guide pointed out n unknown
Leonardo’s use of sfumato. / shGSBt(T)sV / employing, consisting of, or made
Jpn by hasty or unsound methods.
shabbiness a massage with the fingers applied The nuclear reactor will be put on
to those specific areas of the body line despite rumors of shoddy
shadowy used in acupuncture. construction.
adj Ramona’s acupuncturist
/ SshadEwG / recommended regular sessions of shogi
E shiatsu to keep her neck muscles n
fleeting, imaginary, unsubstantial. relaxed. / SshPgG /
Rob awoke to see a shadowy figure Jpn
recede into his closet. shield Japanese chess played on a board
of 81 squares with 40 pieces to the
shaggy shimmery set.
Alexander’s grandparents like to
shaky shine play shogi on the handmade set
v they bought in Kyoto.
shaman / SshIn /
n E shogunate
/ SshBmEn / emit rays of light.
Russ or Tungus In the mountains the stars shine shoji
a priest-doctor who uses magic to brighter than they ever do in the n
cure the sick, to divine the hidden, city. / SshPjG /
and to control events that affect the Jpn
welfare of the people. Shinto a paper screen serving as a wall,
The modern-day shaman is a n partition, or sliding door.
community healer. / SshinTtP / Teruko bought a beautifully painted
Jpn shoji for her mother.
shamateurism the indigenous religion of Japan
characterized by the reverence of shoofly
shameful deified nature spirits and sprits of
ancestors and its great antiquity but shoplifter
shapely lack of an historical founder or
organized teachings. shortsighted
shavetail The sun goddess is regarded as the
chief deity of Shinto. shovel
Shavian
adj shipmate shovellike
/ SshCvGEn /
Latinized E shipyard showery
of, relating to, or characteristic of adj
the British writer George Bernard shirr / SshaU(E)rG /
Shaw or his writings. E
Lucinda’s acting in the role of a shirring abounding with frequent showers
Shavian heroine amazed her n of rain.
parents. / SshEriN / November turned out to be a
unknown dismally cold and showery month.
sheath a decorative gathering of material
as at the top of a drapery. shredder
sheathing Rachel was happy to see that her
new sewing machine had an shrewd
sheepishly attachment for creating shirring.
Page 236 of 289

shrewish siamang sigmoid
adj n adj
/ SshrVish / / SsGETmaN / / SsigTmOid /
E Malay Gk
resembling or having the a black gibbon of Sumatra that is curved like the letter c.
characteristics of an ill-tempered, the largest of the gibbons and has The flower had a round sigmoid
scolding woman. the second and third toes partially stem.
Because Della is naturally ill- united by a web.
tempered, she had no difficulty A remarkable feature of the significance
acting the part of the shrewish siamang is its expandable throat
neighbor. sac that is used to produce a Sikhism
resonant, booming call. n
shrillness / SsGTkizEm /
siderography Skt > Hindi
shroff a monotheistic religion of India
sidewalk founded about A.D. 1500 and
shroud marked by rejection of idolatry and
sierra caste.
shrubbery n The last month of the world
n / TsGSerE / religion class was devoted to
/ SshrEb(E)rG / L > Sp Sikhism.
E a mountainous region.
a growth of low usually several- Mountain goats constitute the silo
stemmed woody plants : hedge. largest animal population in the
When the child had passed through high sierra. silverite
the gate in the shrubbery, she found
herself in great gardens. sieve silvicolous
shuttle sigh simian

n
shuttlecock / SsI / simianity
n E
/ SshEZFlTkBk / [has homonym: psi] a deep and similiter
E+E prolonged audible inspiration and
a feathered object with a rounded expiration of air especially when similitude
base that is volleyed back and forth involuntary and expressing some n
with rackets in badminton. emotion or feeling (as grief, / sDSmilETtVd /
With a quick flick of her wrist, yearning, weariness, or relief). L
Jenna sent the shuttlecock flying The teacher’s deep sigh was a sign a visible likeness : image,
across the net. that she would tolerate no more semblance.
nonsense. Federal law prohibits anyone from
shyster making a copy or document that is
sighingly a similitude of U.S. currency.
sialic
sight simoniacal
sialoid
adj sigillate simony
/ SsIETlOid / n
Gk > L sigillation / SsImEnG /
resembling saliva. Biblical name
The many snails in the garden have sigillography the buying or selling of a church
left a map of sialoid trails across office or ecclesiastical preferment.
the walkway. sigmatism In the late 11th century, church
reformers railed against the
practice of simony.
simperer
simplicity
Page 237 of 289

simulate siren skeuomorph
v n
/ SsimyETlCt / sirenian / SskyVETmOrf /
L n Gk
give the appearance or effect of : / sISrGnGEn / an ornament or design representing
imitate. L a utensil or implement.
Pegs in oak flooring simulate [has homonyms: cyrenaean, Eve’s favorite pin has a
pioneer construction. cyrenian] any of an order of aquatic skeuomorph of a garden spade and
herbivorous mammals including rake.
sincerely the manatee, dugong, and Steller’s
sea cow. skiagram
sinewy The future of the sirenian in n
Florida is in doubt because of the / SskIETgram /
sinfonietta increasing boat traffic. Gk
n a shadowgraph made by X rays : an
/ TsinfEnSyeZE / sish X-ray photograph.
It The breaks in Jody’s left tibia and
an orchestral musical composition sitcom fibula showed up clearly in the
of less than standard length or for skiagram.
fewer instruments. site
While the audience was returning skiagraphy
to their seats we encouraged them situated
with a brief sinfonietta. skiffling
sitzmark
singe skimpy
v sixsome
/ Ssinj / n skinnery
E / SsikTsEm /
burn (something) superficially or E+E skipjack
lightly as to remove the hair or a group of six persons.
down from (an animal or fowl) by The sixsome performed an skirreh
passing over a flame. interesting roundelay of medieval
Kate’s grandmother recalled the origin. skull
days when her job was to singe
chickens after they had been skandhas skycap
plucked. n
skating / SskITkap /
singultus ON > E + L > E
skeet one who is employed to carry hand
sinister luggage at an airport.
skeeter Furley called for a skycap after he
sinistrocular had retrieved his suitcase.
skein
sinkhole skylight
skeiner n
sinologist / SskITlIt /
sketch ON > E + E
siphonapterology n the general backgound of
n / Sskech / illumination of the nighttime sky
/ TsIfETnaptESrBlEjG / It > D that includes light from both
Gk > L + Ecf a slight theatrical piece having a natural and artificial forces.
a branch of entomology that is single scene; especially : a comic The skylight was too intense in the
concerned with fleas. often burlesque variety act typically city to see many stars.
Siphonapterology has discovered developed around a mishap and
that the rabbit flea and the shrew involving a small cast or a single skyscraper
flea limit their infestation to only performer.
the one particular host species. The most hilarious sketch in the slapdashery
show was the one on a driving
sippet lesson. slatternly
Page 238 of 289

slimy smother
slaughter adj v
/ SslImG / / SsmELE(r) /
slaughterous E E
adj of, relating to, resembling, or being destroy the life of by depriving of
/ SslOZErEs / slime : viscous, glutinous. air.
Scand > E Many people mistakenly think that The firefighter warned that the
of, relating to, or characterized by snakes have slimy skin. toxic smoke in the building would
mass killing and bloodshed. smother anyone in a matter of
After the slaughterous battle the slingshot seconds.
remaining invaders retreated to
their ships. slippery smudgily
slavery slithery smuggle
slavish slope snappish

adj
/ SslCvish / sluggard snatch
Slav > Gk > L > F > E
requiring hard work : laborious. smalto snazziness
“A slavish concern for the
composition of words is the sign of smaragdine sneakiness
a bankrupt intellect,” roared the adj
Humbug. / smESragdDn / sneeze
L v
sleeve of or relating to emerald : yellowish / SsnGz /
green in color like an emerald. E
sleeveless Legend has it that Alexander the make a sudden spasmodic
Great found a smaragdine tablet expiration of breath through the
sleigh containing 13 sentences considered nose.
to be basic principles in Greek Kaye refused to read magazines
slender alchemy. containing scented ads for
adj perfumes because the strong
/ SslendE(r) / smarmy fragrances made her sneeze.
E
not fleshy or large of bone. smelt sneezeweed
Because Waldo had such a slender
build, he never tried on anything smirky snidery
but the slim sizes when he went
clothes shopping. smitham sniffle
slenderize smithereens snippet

v n pl
/ SslendETrIz / / TsmiLESrGnz / snobbery
E + Ecf IrGael
make narrow in circumference or bits, fragments. snooperscope
width in proportion to the length or Elden’s mother refuses to allow
height. him to play video games in which snoopery
Peter used a lathe to slenderize the people or things are blown to
candlestick. smithereens. snoove
slentando smock snore
slide smooth
Page 239 of 289

snort soave Socratic
v adj
/ SsnO(E)rt / soberingly / sESkraZik /
E Gk name
force air violently through the nose sobriety of or relating to the philosopher
with a rough harsh sound. n Socrates or his philosophy or his
As many cartoons depict, the bull / sESbrIEZG / followers.
really does snort and paw the L The Socratic method of instruction,
ground when he is angry. the quality or state of being free simply put, enables the learner to
from the influence of intoxicating express what he already knows.
snouch beverages.
At times the drunkard wished he sodden
snowbound could lead a life of sobriety.
sodium
snowdrift socialite
n soilure
/ SsnPTdrift / societal
E+E adj soily
a bank of drifted snow. / sESsIEZFl /
The snowdrift completely covered L > F + Ecf soiree
the fire hydrant. of or relating to a community with n
common interests. / swBSrC /
snowstorm Both candidates promised to cure L>F
n the most vexatious societal woes. an evening party or reception.
/ SsnPTstO(E)rm / When the band’s new album was
E+E society released, the record company
a storm of falling snow. sponsored a soiree to celebrate the
The overnight snowstorm caused a sociocracy occasion.
two-hour delay of the school’s n
opening. / TsPs(h)GSBkrEsG / sojourn
L + Gk
snubbed the application of scientifically solar
determined principles promoting adj
snuffle the interests of society as a whole. / SsPlEr /
v Graham insisted that sociocracy L
/ SsnEfEl / was the answer to most of modern [has homonym: soler] of, derived
E society’s problems, while Melissa from, or relating to the Sun and its
draw in forcibly through the argued that increased philanthropy effects especially on Earth and
nostrils especially audibly and would accomplish more faster. other celestial bodies.
repeatedly. A solar diagonal is an attachment
A hungry dog will sometimes sociocrat for a telescope which permits
snuffle and gulp vigorously when observation of the Sun by
fed, seeming to inhale its food. sociogenesis discarding most of the unwanted
heat and light.
soakage sociologist
n solarium
soapbox / TsPsGSBlEjDst /
n L + Gk sole
/ SsPpTbBks / a specialist in the science of
E + Gk > L > E society, social institutions, and soleiform
an improvised platform used by a social relationships.
self-appointed, spontaneous, or The pioneering sociologist Emile soleil
informal orator. Durkheim was born in France in
Ned needed no encouragement to 1858.
leap upon his soapbox and hold
forth on any subject. sociology
soapstone
Page 240 of 289

solemn solmizate somatotonic
adj v adj
/ SsBlEm / / SsBlmETzCt / / sESmaZETtIp /
L L>F Gk
marked by full realization and sing using a set of syllables to exhibiting a pattern of
acceptance of all that is involved. denote the tones of a musical scale. aggressiveness, love of physical
Donald looked solemn as he In the musical The Sound of Music, activity, vigor, and alertness.
apologized to the class. Maria composes a song called “Do With his somatotonic personality,
Re Mi” to teach her young pupils Brian gets more done before nine
solemnly to solmizate. in the morning than most people
get done all day.
solenoglyph soloist
n somatotype
solenoid / SsPlEwDst / n
n L > It + Ecf / SsPmEZETtIp /
/ SsPlETnOid / one who performs with no partner Gk
Gk or associate. body type : physique.
a coil of wire commonly in the Charles is an occasional soloist in Considering Phil’s thin, slight
form of a long cylinder that carries his school’s modern dance build, the physician classified his
a current. performances. somatotype as ectomorphic.
It took a long time to trace the
power failure to a faulty solenoid. Solomonic sombra
adj n
soleprint / TsBlESmBnik / / SsBmbrE /
Heb name L > Sp
solfeggio marked by notable wisdom, the shady side or section of a
reasonableness, or discretion bullfight arena.
solicit especially under trying Richard was glad he had a seat in
circumstances. the sombra.
solicitude Naeem’s Solomonic solution to a
n workplace disagreement earned sommelier
/ sESlisETtVd / him a reputation as a peacemaker. n
L / TsOmElSyC /
uneasiness of mind due to fear. solution L > Prov > F
Having few wants, he had little a waiter in a restaurant who has
cause for solicitude. solve charge of wines and their service.
v The sommelier at L’Escoffier is
solipsist / SsBlv / famous for his knowledge of rare
n L>E and unusual European wines.
/ SsPlDpsDst / find an answer, solution, or
L+L explanation for. somniferous
an adherent or advocate of an The algebra teacher asked her adj
extreme version of subjective class to solve five word problems, / sBmSnif(E)rEs /
idealism. but only one student got a perfect L
To Traci, the sculptor was nothing score. tending to induce sleep.
more than an affected solipsist, For most of July the city baked in
pawning off junk as art. solvency somniferous heat.
n
solitary / SsBlvEnsG / somnipathy
adj L n
/ SsBlETterG / the quality or state of being able to / sBmSnipEthG /
L pay all legal debts. L
single, individual, sole. After Jack’s financial setbacks, he abnormal or disordered sleep (as in
The road raced ahead in a series of determinedly struggled back to a hypnotic state).
gentle curves that began to look solvency. Sleeping with open eyes is normal
familiar, and off in the distance a for Aaron, not some sort of
solitary tollbooth appeared. somnipathy.
Page 241 of 289

somnolent sorely sourly
adj adv adv
/ SsBmnElEnt / / SsP(E)rlG / / SsaU(E)rlG /
L E E
tending to induce drowsiness or severely, violently. in an unpleasant distasteful manner.
sleepiness. Mongo was sorely vexed when Lee sourly puckered up his mouth
Jeff could feel his eyelids getting faced with criticism. and walked away.
heavier as he listened to the
somnolent sermon. soricine sovereign
sonable sororal sowback

adj
sonata / sESrPrEl / soybean
L + Ecf
sonnet of, relating to, or being in the sozzle
n relationship of a sister.
/ SsBnDt / Due to their strong sororal bond, spaceport
L > OP Melanie and Lynette are aware of
a fixed verse form of Italian origin each other’s emotions, even though spadiceous
consisting of 14 lines. they live in different parts of the adj
Thomas remembered memorizing country. / spCSdishEs /
in high school a sonnet about Gk > L
Triton and a wreathed horn. sororate of a bright clear brown or a
chestnut color.
sonobuoy sorrow Madeline found a spadiceous
n feather, which she thought was
/ SsBnETbVi / sorrowful from a hawk.
L + Gmc > F > E adj
a float equipped with a hydrophone / SsBrPfEl / spanspek
for detecting underwater sounds E
and an automatic radio transmitter full of or characterized by spar
for transmitting the sounds. uneasiness or anguish due to loss
The airman dropped a sonobuoy (as of something loved or familiar). spareribs
over the submarine’s last known The author described his mother as n pl
location. a sorrowful, pathetic soul, plagued / Sspa(a)(r)Tribz /
by bad luck. G>E
sontag a cut of pork ribs and breastbone
sortilege separated from the bacon strip.
sophomoric Today’s featured items in the
adj soterial cafeteria are spareribs and peach
/ TsBf(E)SmPrik / adj pie.
Gk / sPStirGEl /
exhibiting a firm and often Gk sparkler
aggressive conviction of of or relating to salvation.
knowledge and wisdom and being After the offertory the choir sang a sparring
unaware of limitations and lack of soterial hymn.
maturity. sparrow
Cora’s sophomoric analysis soul
irritated the other board members. spasm
soundproof
sorbefacient spasmolysis
soupcon
sorbitol spasmolytic
source
sordid
sorehead
Page 242 of 289

spasms spectacles spellbinder
n pl n pl
/ SspazEmz / / SspektDkEls / spencer
Gk > L > F > E L n
sudden violent and temporary glasses that are supported by the / Sspen(t)sE(r) /
activities : bursts. ears. E name
The spasms of pain Terry is The pair of spectacles in the a woman’s fitted jacket of waist
experiencing are caused by a antique shop were very small with length or shorter.
spinal injury. round lenses and gold frames. Miss Bates got her bonnet and
spencer on and was ready to come
spasticity spectacular outside.
adj
spathe / spekStakyElEr / Spencerian
L adj
spatiography of, relating to, or constituting a / spenSsirGEn /
remarkable or noteworthy sight. American name
spearhead The fireworks launched from the of, relating to, or characteristic of a
n river barge displayed a spectacular form of slanting handwriting
/ Sspi(E)rThed / scene for the thousands watching. developed by American
E+E calligrapher Platt Rogers Spencer.
the sharp, pointed tip of a long, thin spectrometer The documents in the attic trunk
hurling weapon. n were written in Spencerian script.
Ada found an ancient spearhead / spekStrBmEZE(r) /
near the riverbank. L + Gk spendthrift
an instrument designed for the n
specialize examination and measurement of / Sspen(d)Tthrift /
chemical compounds. E + ON > E
specie The mass spectrometer is used to one that spends or uses wastefully
sort atoms and molecules or improvidently.
specific according to their atomic masses. The legislator resented being called
adj a spendthrift at the public trough.
/ spDSsifik / spectroscope
L sphere
[Note: The definition provided is speculate
not the one most commonly v sphericity
associated with this word.] being / SspekyETlCt / n
any of various arbitrary physical L / sfDSrisEZG /
constants and especially one ponder a subject in its different Gk
relating a quantitative attribute to aspects, relations, and implications. the quality or state of being
unit mass, volume, or area. Despite all his efforts to speculate spherical : roundness; especially :
Specific gravity is defined as the as to the outcome of his venture, the degree of perfection of the
ratio between the weight of a Art was not at all prepared for surface of a sphere.
substance and the weight of an what happened. By circumnavigating Earth,
equal volume of water at 4 degrees Magellan confirmed Earth’s
Celsius. speculative sphericity.
specificity specus spherometer

n n
/ TspesESfisEZG / speiss / sfDSrBmEZE(r) /
L + Ecff Gk
the quality or state of being free speleology an instrument for measuring the
from ambiguity. n curvature of a spherical object.
Mr. Spence values specificity in his / TspGlGSBlEjG / The invention of the spherometer
students’ essays. Gk + gk substituted the sense of sight for
the scientific study or systematic that of touch in the measurement of
speciosity exploration of caves. curved objects.
Dale’s research in speleology takes
speckled him to spectacular natural features
around the world.
Page 243 of 289

sphingine spidery splanchnology
adj adj n
/ SsfinTjIn / / SspIdErG / / splaNkSnBlEjG /
Gk E Gk
resembling a sphinx. resembling or suggesting a spider a branch of anatomy concerned
The writer described the Mona web; especially : composed of fine with the internal organs of the
Lisa’s enigmatic look as threads or lines in a weblike body.
“sphingine.” arrangement. Professor Adams supplemented his
sphragistic The spidery lines on Joan’s leg are lectures in splanchnology with
adj broken capillaries. graphic slides of the spleen, liver,
/ sfrESjistik / and intestines.
Gk spikiness
relating to seals and signets. splendiferous
The author discussed and spinose
illustrated the successive styles of adj splenomegaly
English sphragistic art. / SspITnPs / n
L / TsplGnESmegElG /
sphygmic full of spines : armed with spines. Gk
adj The spinose porcupine has little to enlargement of the spleen.
/ Ssfigmik / fear from most predators. Patients affected with malaria
Gk generally exhibit splenomegaly.
of or relating to the circulatory spintherism
pulse. splice
An instrument measured the spirit v
patient’s sphygmic changes during / SsplIs /
the operation. spirograph D
n unite two ropes or two parts of one
sphygmomanometer / SspIrETgraf / rope by sticking or tucking the
n L + Gk strands of one rope or part between
/ Tsfig(T)mPmESnBmEZE(r) / an instrument for recording or around each other.
Gk respiratory movements commonly Barton knew how to splice the old
an instrument for measuring blood consisting of a spirometer together rope to the new one so skillfully
pressure and especially arterial with a suitable recording device. that the join could hardly be seen.
blood pressure. Dr. Martinez scanned the
The nurse-practitioner checked spirograph for any irregularities splintered
Siggie’s blood pressure with a before making his diagnosis.
sphygmomanometer. splotchy
spirogyra
spiccato n spoiler
adj / TspIrESjIrE /
/ spDSkBZ(T)P / L > Gk > L spondean
It any plant of a genus of freshwater adj
performed with springing bow— green algae forming slimy masses / spBnSdGEn /
used as a direction in music for in still water and slow streams. Gk + Ecf
stringed instruments. The shallow pool was completely having, consisting of, or
The cellist excelled in playing the covered with spirogyra. characterized by metrical feet of
spiccato passages of the movement. two long or stressed syllables.
spirulate Poets occasionally use spondean
spiculiferous feet to break or slow down the
adj spite predominant rhythm of a poem.
/ TspikyESlif(E)rEs /
L+L+L spiteful spondylitic
bearing small fleshy points or adj
appendages. spittoon / TspBndESliZik /
The shape of the sponge is Gk
maintained by its spiculiferous spitz affected with inflammation of the
skeleton. vertebrae.
splanchnic The spondylitic patient was treated
with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Page 244 of 289

sponge spurrier squeaker
n
sponsor spy / SskwGkE(r) /
E
spoof squabash a contest won by a narrow margin.
The Raiders triumphed over the
spoofery squabble Rams in a 7-6 squeaker.
sporadic squally squealer

adj adj
/ spESraZik / / SskwOlG / squeeze
Gk Scand?
occurring occasionally, singly, or in marked by sudden violent winds squeg
scattered instances. often accompanied by rain or snow.
Mr. Gifford warned Katie that When the weather became squally, squelcher
completing her homework could the fishing boats headed back to
not be a sporadic activity if she port. squibbery
wanted to pass the class. n
squalor / SskwibErG /
sporadicity unknown
squamaceous the utterance or composition of
sprawling short, humorous, satiric, or
v squamulose lampooning writing or speech.
/ SsprOliN / adj The opponents exchanged
E / SskwamyETlPs / squibbery as if throwing darts at
lying or sitting with arms and legs L each other.
stretched out carelessly or covered with minute scales.
awkwardly. Squamulose lichens cover the squidgy
The bucking of the horse sent the seaside rocks.
cowboy sprawling on the ground. squiggle
squandermania n
sprightly n / SskwigEl /
/ TskwBndE(r)SmCnGE / (imit? + E) > E
sprinkling unknown + Gk > L a short wavy twist or
n the practice of spending money line : curl.
/ SspriNk(E)liN / extravagantly especially by a David made a long squiggle on his
E government. paper while he daydreamed.
a limited quantity or amount : a The mayoral candidate promised to
slight portion : modicum. halt the city’s squandermania if squire
Portia complained that she had elected. n
received only a sprinkling of / SskwI(E)r /
outstanding instruction in her first squawker L>F>E
year of college. a shield bearer or armor bearer of a
squawking knight.
spritzer During a lull in the battle, each
squdge knight’s squire came forward with
spruce v food, water, and replacement
n / SskwEj / weapons.
/ SsprVs / imit?
F>E ooze. squirm
a variable color averaging a dark Stacia drove slowly along the
grayish green. muddy road, worried that the mud stabilization
Mrs. Kim says that for her would squdge into every crevice of
Christmas dinner tablecloth, the the car.
perfect shade of green to go with
red napkins is spruce.
spunky
Page 245 of 289

stade staid staphyloma
n adj n
/ SstCd / / SstCd / / TstafESlPmE /
Gk > L > E L>F>E Gk
[has homonyms: staid, stayed] any [has homonyms: stade, stayed] a protrusion of the cornea or sclera
of various ancient Greek units of sober, grave, sedate. of the mammalian eye.
length equal to 600 Greek feet. Scrooge was a stingy, staid The ophthalmologist surgically
The footrace in the ancient curmudgeon. removed the staphyloma in Stella’s
Olympic Games at Olympia was left eye.
exactly a stade in length. staircase
starboard
stadimeter stakemaster n
/ SstBrbErd /
stadium stalemate E
n n the right side of a ship or airplane
/ SstCdGEm / / SstClTmCt / looking forward.
Gk > L > F > E F > AF > E + F > E The tour guide pointed to starboard
a large usually unroofed structure a drawing position in chess in when porpoises began leaping in
with tiers of seats for spectators and which only the king can move and the water.
enclosing a field usually for sports although not in check can move
events. only into check. stargazer
The new sports stadium will be Sasha and Vanya played to a
named after a large corporation stalemate in the Moscow city chess starry
thanks to a big contribution to championship. adj
cover construction costs. / SstBrG /
staleness E
stadthouse n abounding with stars.
/ SstClTnDs / Noel marveled at how much more
stagecraft E starry the sky appeared when he
n the quality or state of being altered was away from the city.
/ SstCjTkraft / in quality through the action of
L>F>E+E natural processes. startle
the art or practice of effective The bread’s staleness did not stop v
management of theatrical devices hungry Herbie from eating it. / SstBrZFl /
or techniques. E
The critic praised the opera not stallion move or jump suddenly as in
only for the singing but also for its n surprise, fear, or alarm.
effective stagecraft. / SstalyEn / Some babies startle easily.
Gmc > F > E
stagehand a mature male of any equine starvation
n mammal.
/ SstCjThand / The zoo has one zebra stallion and static
L>F>E+E three mares.
a stage worker who handles stationarily
scenery and properties. staminiferous
The stagehand tripped and fell with statuary
a loud thud during the stammeringly n
performance. / SstachETwerG /
standardization L
stagestruck a branch of sculpture dealing with
standpatter three-dimensional figures.
staggered In her study of ancient Greek
stannary statuary, Hillary was surprised to
stagnicolous learn that figures had often been
staphylococcus brightly painted.
stagnum
statue
statute
Page 246 of 289

statutorily stencilization sterilant
n
staurolatry stenecious / SsterElEnt /
n L
/ stOSrBlEtrG / stentorian a sterilizing agent; especially : an
Gk adj herbicide designed to completely
worship of the cross or crucifix. / stenStPrGEn / eliminate a kind of plant and to
After the missionaries left, many Gk name + Ecf have a rather persistent residual
natives turned what they had extremely loud : capable of effect in the soil.
learned into a primitive form of powerful utterance or sound. A sterilant was sprayed on the
staurolatry. Herman’s stentorian boom box brick walk to prevent the growth of
annoyed everyone on the bus. weeds.
staypak
stephanotis sterlet
stealthily n
/ TstefESnPZDs / stern
stealthy Gk adj
any plant of a genus of Old World / SstErn /
steamroller tropical woody vines with fragrant E
n white flowers. having a serious and strict manner.
/ SstGmTrPlE(r) / Madagascar jasmine is a Darryl always looks more stern
E stephanotis that is used as an when he wears glasses.
a steam-driven road roller. ornamental in warm regions and in
The cartoon character was greenhouses. sternocostal
flattened by a huge steamroller.
stereophonic sternutatory
steed adj
n / TsterGESfBnik / stet
/ SstGd / Gk + Gk v
E giving, relating to, or constituting a / Sstet /
horse. three-dimensional effect of L
The slow-moving steed could not be perspective attained or experienced annotate with the word stet or
coaxed or forced to move any through hearing. otherwise mark to nullify a
faster. Most television sets now are previous order to delete or omit.
equipped with stereophonic Every time Harry tried to get rid of
steeplechase speakers. part of a dictionary entry, the chief
n editor would stet the deletion.
/ SstGpElTchCs / stereotomist
E+L>F>E n steward
a horse race across country and / TsterGSBZEmDst /
over barriers ridden by a number of Gk stichic
participants. a practitioner of the art of adj
Bonnie won the steeplechase stonecutting. / Sstikik /
handily. A stereotomist will carve a Gk
gargoyle for the new library. of, relating to, or consisting of lines
steerage that are rhythmic units : arranged or
stereotomy divided by lines : serial in
steeved succession or recurrence.
Ancient Greek dramatists used
stein stichic form for spoken dialogues.
stench stichometry
n
/ Sstench / stickum
E
a malodorous smell.
Georgette attributed her nausea to
the stench emanating from the
chemical factory.
Page 247 of 289

stifling stockade storage
adj n n
/ SstIf(E)liN / / stBSkCd / / SstPrij /
F>E (Gmc + L) > Sp L>F>E
producing suffocation or an enclosure usually surrounded by space for collecting as a reserved
repression. barbed wire in which prisoners are supply.
The stifling smell of cigar smoke kept. When we designed the new garage,
killed Ashley’s appetite. The insubordinate soldier was sent extra space was allotted for
to the stockade for the rest of his general storage.
stigmatism enlistment.
storyless
stigmatization stockholders
stowaway
stile stodgily
n straight
/ SstI(E)l / stoic
E straightedge
steps or rungs to assist a person stolidity
over a fence while remaining a strategize
barrier for livestock. stomach v
Gigi had trouble getting over the / SstraZETjIz /
stile into the field. stomacher Gk
n devise a plan.
stillatitious / SstEmDkE(r) / The board met to strategize for
Gk expanding the company’s foreign
stimulogenous the center front section of a waist markets.
or underwaist or a usually heavily
stingy embroidered or jeweled separate strategy
piece for the center front of a n
stipiform bodice. / SstraZDjG /
If Jane but sends her aunt the Gk
stipule pattern of a stomacher or knits a a careful plan or method.
pair of garters for her At halftime the coach outlined a
stirpiculture grandmother, one hears of nothing new defensive strategy.
else for a month.
stoat straticulate
n stomatology
/ SstPt / stratification
E stoneware
ermine; broadly : any of various stratified
weasels that have a black-tipped stooge v
tail—used especially of the animal n / SstraZETfId /
when in the brown summer coat. / SstVj / L
The stoat was closing in on the unknown formed, deposited, or arranged in
rabbit, which seemed unaware of a subordinate participant in a comic layers.
the danger. act or dialogue whose function is to Mike pointed out the stratified
carry on repartee in such manner as sedimentary rock formations
stochastically to enable a principal comedian to revealed by erosion.
adv make humorous remarks or appear
/ stESkastDk(E)lG / in a humorous light. stratocracy
Gk In the western, Smiley played the
in a random manner. sheriff’s naïve stooge.
The company’s quality control
involved testing its products
stochastically.
Page 248 of 289

stratocumulus striated stubble
n adj n
/ TstraZPSkyVmyElEs / / SstrITCZDd / / SstEbEl /
L L L>F>E
stratified cumulus consisting of marked with threadlike lines or a short growth of beard.
large balls or rolls of dark cloud narrow bands. The unusual appearance of stubble
which often cover the whole sky Marcus found an interesting on Bob’s face must mean he’s
especially in winter. striated rock lying in the dry trying to grow a beard.
The satellite picture revealed a creekbed.
large deck of stratocumulus off the stubbornly
coast of California. stridulated
v stuccoed
stratose / SstrijETlCZDd /
adj L student
/ SstrCTtPs / made a shrill often vibrating noise. n
L The locusts stridulated so loudly / Sst(y)VdFnt /
arranged in layers. that the campers could hardly hear L
The stratose limestone was quite each other without raising their one devoted to learning, as one
visible where the hillside had been voices. enrolled in a class or course in a
cut during highway construction. school, college, or university.
stridulatory No student at Andrew’s school had
stratosphere adj 100 percent attendance last year.
/ SstrijElETtPrG /
streamline L + Ecff stulm
used in the act of producing a shrill
stremmatograph often vibrating noise. stumble
Most crickets tune up their
strengthen stridulatory organs at about stupa
twilight and keep them going all n
strenuosity night. / Sst(y)VpE /
Skt
strenuous strisciando a hemispherical or cylindrical
adj mound or tower artificially
/ SstrenyEwEs / strobe constructed of earth, brick, or
L stone, surmounted by a spire or
arduous, rigorous. stromuhr umbrella, and containing a relic
Paul relaxed after a strenuous chamber.
day’s work. strongylosis The stupa was said to contain a
n relic of the Buddha.
stretch / TstrBnjESlPsDs /
v Gk stupulose
/ Sstrech / infestation with or disease caused
E by any of a family of parasitic sturnine
extend in length. roundworms.
Sam got up to stretch his legs and An outbreak of strongylosis caused style
get a snack. the deaths of thousands of game
birds. stymie
stretchy v
strontium / SstImG /
strewn E
v struck block, check, thwart.
/ SstrVn / Brock’s negative attitude will
E structure stymie his ability to maximize his
spread by scattering. potential.
Yellow seed-cucumbers were struggle
strewn about the dry garden patch. stymied
struggling
stypticity
strychninism
Page 249 of 289

styrene sublimation subsequent
n adj
suave / TsEblESmCshEn / / SsEbsDkwEnt /
adj L L>E
/ SswBv / the action or process of passing following in time : coming or being
L from the solid to the vapor state by later than something else.
smoothly affable or polite though the action of heat. The earthquake and subsequent
often without deep interest or Steamy dry ice is an excellent aftershocks devastated the city.
sincerity. example of the process of
José had a suave way of treating sublimation. subservience
his guests. n
sublime / (T)sEbSsErvGEn(t)s /
subclavate v L
/ sESblIm / [Note: Could be confused with
subclavian L>F>E plural noun subservients.]
adj pass directly from the solid to the excessive willingness to submit to
/ TsEbSklCvGEn / vapor state. the control or demands of another.
L Causing naphthalene to sublime The columnist chided the
located under the collarbone. rids it of impurities. Congressmen for their
Leonard has a small subclavian subservience to wealthy and well-
scar from a long-ago skateboard subliminal organized lobbies.
accident.
sublittoral subsided
subimago v
n submarine / sEbSsIdEd /
/ TsEbDSmC(T)gP / L
L submit let oneself settle down : eased,
a stage in the development of some sank.
insects between the nymph and the subordinate After barking at the stranger for
adult in which the insect is able to adj several minutes, the dog subsided
fly but becomes mature only after a / sESbOrd(F)nDt / next to Julio.
further molt. L
The mayfly subimago flies from the holding a lower or inferior position. subsidiaries
surface of the water to some The soldier was ordered to spend
sheltered resting place nearby, three hours digging a ditch to help subsidize
where it will shed its skin and him learn that he was subordinate v
emerge as an adult. to the leader. / SsEbsETdIz /
L > E + Ecf
subito subornation aid or promote (as a private
adv n enterprise) with public money.
/ SsVbGZ(T)P / / (T)sETbO(r)SnCshEn / The fact that taxpayers subsidize
L > It L some tobacco growers continues to
immediately, suddenly—used as a the crime of procuring a person to irritate many nonsmokers.
direction in music. commit perjury.
It was the desire of the composer— The mobster was arrested and subsidy
not the director—to play the charged with subornation of a key
passage subito forte. witness. subsonic
subjectable subrogate substantiable

v
/ SsEbrPTgCt / substantial
L
put in the place of another :
substitute.
In an act of financial selflessness,
Louis decided to subrogate his
assets for his brother’s debt.
subsatellite
Page 250 of 289

substantiate succor sultana
v
/ sEbzStanchGTCt / succory Sumatran
L adj
prove, confirm, verify. succussatory / sESmBtrEn /
The suspect was unable to adj geog name
substantiate his whereabouts at the / sESkEsETtPrG / of, relating to, or characteristic of
time of the crime. L>E the island of Sumatra.
characterized by up-and-down The Sumatran rhinoceros is
substitution vibrations of short amplitude— becoming rare in Malaysia.
used of an earthquake.
subterete Fortunately, the earthquake’s sumi
succussatory movements caused
subtlety only minor damage to the summa
buildings.
suburb sunbow
succussion n
subversion / SsEnTbP /
suction E+E
succade n an arch resembling a rainbow.
/ SsEkshEn / A sunbow was clearly visible
succedaneum L through the mist at Niagara Falls.
n the act or process of exerting a
/ TsEksESdCnGEm / force upon a body by means of sunglo
L reduced air pressure over part of its n
one that comes next after or surface. / SsUNSlP /
replaces another in an office, To demonstrate suction, Alan used Chin geog name
position, or role. a drinking straw to lift a piece of [has near homonym: sunglow] a
If the president and the vice- paper. green Chinese tea characterized by
president of the United States die large loosely rolled leaves.
while in office, the Speaker of the suffragette The monks offered their visitor a
House of Representatives is their n cup of sunglo.
succedaneum. / TsEfrDSjet /
L + F > Ecf sunshiny
succeed a woman who militantly advocates adj
giving women the right to vote. / SsEnTshInG /
succeeding Sheldon’s great-aunt was a famous E+E
v English suffragette who was finally bright with or as if with the rays of
/ sEkSsGdiN / able to vote at the age of seventy- the Sun.
L + Ecf two. Because Saturday was such a
following after another especially sunshiny day, Mom spent most of
in a natural, prescribed, or suffusive her time gardening.
necessary order.
The senior class built a trail on the suicidology superb
mountain behind the school to adj
enable succeeding students to suint / sVSpErb /
appreciate the flora. L
suitcase stately, lordly.
success The statue of the king conveyed his
suitor superb demeanor well.
succinctly
adv sullen supercentrifuge
/ sEkSsiN(k)tlG / adj
L + Ecf / SsElEn / supercilium
with concise and precise brevity. L>F>E
The English teacher stressed the ill-humoredly unsociable :
importance of expressing ideas gloomily or resentfully silent.
clearly and succinctly. When her name was called, Judy
looked up in sullen resentment.
Page 251 of 289

supererogation supersessive suppliantly
n adj adv
/ TsVpETrerESgCshEn / / TsVpErSsesiv / / SsEplGEntlG /
L L L>F>E
the act or process or an instance of tending to take the place of or in a humble imploring manner.
performing more than necessary to cause to be supplanted. The servant suppliantly entreated
complete an undertaking. Jimmy is afraid the new baby will his employer to forgive his
The teacher asked for a three-page prove supersessive in his parents’ negligence.
essay on insects, but in a burst of affections.
supererogation, Duane wrote six supposition
pages. superstition
n suppress
superfluity / TsVpE(r)SstishEn / v
L / sESpres /
superjacent a fixed irrational idea : a notion L
maintained in spite of evidence to put down or out of existence by or
superlative the contrary. as if by authority, force, or
adj Harvey believes in the superstition pressure.
/ sESpErlEZiv / that breaking a mirror brings seven Despite much effort, Martha could
L years of bad luck. not suppress her hiccups.
most eminent of its kind : having
no peers. supervene suppuration
Austin’s superlative skill as a
violinist makes him the clear choice supervenient supralapsarian
for concertmaster. adj
/ TsVpE(r)SvGnyEnt / supremacy
supernaculum L n
coming or occurring as something / sESpremEsG /
supernal additional, extraneous, or L
adj unexpected. final authority or power.
/ sVSpErnFl / A corporation’s lawyers must keep Americans are wasting their breath
L abreast of all supervenient changes if they question the supremacy of
of a heavenly or spiritual character. in corporate laws. the Constitution.
Fran’s essay defends her belief that
humankind will never penetrate the supervise surette
supernal wisdom by which God
governs the universe. supineness surface
supernova supplanter surmise

n v
/ TsVpE(r)SnPvE / supple / sE(r)SmIz /
L adj L>F>E
one of the rarely observed nova / SsEpEl / form a notion of on slight proof :
outbursts in which the maximum L guess, suppose.
intrinsic luminosity may reach 100 characterized by ease in bending or It was not hard to surmise from
million times that of the Sun. other actions. Pedro’s evasive answer that he had
The supernova of 1054 was bright Ballet and other forms of dancing not completed the report.
enough to be seen during the day. make their participants more
supple. surmounted
supersede v
supplement / sErSmaUntDd /
F>E
stood at the top of : remained on
the top of.
A steeple surmounted the church.
surname
Page 252 of 289

surpass sussultatory swidden
v adj
/ sErSpas / / sESsEltETtPrG / swindler
F L > It n
become better, greater, or stronger characterized by up-and-down / Sswind(F)lE(r) /
than. vibrations of large amplitude— G
Jay’s semester grades will surpass used of an earthquake. one that deprives a person of
even his parents’ high expectations. The sussultatory patterns on the money or property by fraud or
seismograph warned everyone that deceit.
surplice Arizona was about to become The swindler was arrested after he
beachfront property. sold an undercover policeman a
surprise fake Rolex watch for $500.
sustentacular
surrender syllabify
svabite
surrendered sylvestrian
v swaddle
/ sESrendE(r)d / sympathetic
F swagger
gave or delivered up possession of v sympathetically
upon compulsion or demand. / SswagE(r) / adv
Clem surrendered his weapon Scand / TsimpEStheZDk(E)lG /
without a fight. conduct oneself in an arrogant Gk + Ecff
manner. in a manner marked by
surreptitiously Dave seemed to swagger slightly as compassion, kind friendly feeling,
he got up from his final exam. and sensitivity to others’ emotions.
survey Roald wrote sympathetically of the
Swahili migrant workers’ plight.
surveyor n
n / swBShGlG / symphily
/ TsErSvCEr / Ar
F>E a Bantu language of East Africa. symphonette
one whose occupation is finding Swahili was originally spoken in n
and representing the contours, Zaire and is now a trade language / Tsim(p)fESnet /
measurements, and position of a in much of East Africa and the Gk > L > F + Ecf
part of Earth’s surface. Congo. a symphony orchestra reduced in
In preparation for the Olympic personnel and typically playing
games, a surveyor measured all the swartback ensemble and salon music in
tracks and marked out the addition to the standard orchestral
individual areas for each event. swarthy literature.
The symphonette was just the right
survival swashbuckler size to play the baroque pieces.
susceptibility swather symphonious
suspense sweater symphysis
suspiciously sweatshop symptoms

adv n pl
/ sESspishEslG / swelter / Ssim(p)tEmz /
L Gk
in a manner arousing or intending swerve subjective evidence of disease.
to arouse distrust : questionably. v Headaches and fevers are
Conrad’s story sounded / SswErv / symptoms of many different
suspiciously like one his older E diseases.
brother had written two years ago. move from a straight line or course.
The driver had to swerve to avoid
hitting the dog.
Page 253 of 289

synchronism syncretism synovial
n n adj
/ SsiNkrETnizEm / / SsiNkrETtizEm / / sDSnPvGEl /
Gk > L + Ecf Gk Gk > L
concurrence of acts, events, or flagrant compromise in religion or secreting a transparent viscid
developments in time : philosophy : eclecticism that is lubricating fluid.
simultaneousness. illogical or leads to inconsistency : Healthy synovial tissue provides
Motion-picture cameras are uncritical acceptance of conflicting nutrients to surfaces of the body’s
devised to ensure good or divergent beliefs or principles. joints and ensures that these
synchronism between sound and Alice mistook her church’s surfaces are lubricated.
picture. ecumenical ideas for syncretism.
synovitis
synchroscope syncytium
n synthesize
/ SsiNkrETskPp / syndicator v
Gk / SsinJETsIz /
a device for showing whether two syndrome Gk + Gk + Ecf
moving parts are moving in time produce a chemical compound by
with each other or for giving an synergize the union of elements or simpler
indication of their relative phase. v compounds or by the degradation
The rotary synchroscope is used to / SsinErTjIz / of a complex compound especially
parallel two alternators. Gk by laboratory or industrial methods.
exhibit cooperative action such that Fritz Haber developed a process to
synchrotron the total effect of discrete agencies synthesize ammonia using
n is greater than the sum of the two atmospheric nitrogen.
/ SsiNkrETtrBn / or more effects taken
Gk independently. synthesizer
an apparatus for imparting very The pharmacist explained that a
high speeds to charged particles (as muscle relaxant and an anti- synthetic
electrons, protons) by means of a inflammatory could synergize to adj
combination of a high-frequency reduce Arnold’s shoulder pain / sinStheZik /
electric field and a low-frequency more effectively. Gk
magnetic field. produced by artificial processes :
The high-energy radiation from a synergy man-made.
synchrotron has been used in the To reduce calories, the sugar
attack on viruses. synonymy content of some foods is replaced
n by synthetic sweeteners.
syncopated / sDSnBnEmG /
Gk synthetically
syncretic the quality or fact of being alike or
adj nearly alike in meaning. syntrophism
/ sinSkreZik / The words destroy, annihilate, n
Gk demolish, and wreck are related by / SsintrETfizEm /
characterized or brought about by synonymy. Gk
the reconciliation or union of mutual dependence for the
conflicting (as religious) beliefs. synoptic satisfaction of nutritional needs.
Voodoo is a syncretic religion that adj The two bacterial strains exhibit
developed in Haiti with influences / sDSnBptik / syntrophism, with each strain
from many parts of Africa. Gk synthesizing the growth factor
relating to or displaying needed by the other.
atmospheric and weather
conditions as they exist syrinx
simultaneously over a broad area.
Synoptic meteorologists study
information on air pressure,
temperature, humidity, and wind
velocity in preparing weather
forecasts.
Page 254 of 289

syrphid tachistoscope tactility
n n
/ SsErfDd / / tESkistETskPp / taction
Gk > L Gk + Gk
a fly of the family Syrphidae : an apparatus for the brief exposure taeniate
syrphus fly. of visual stimuli that is used in the
The syrphid is also known as the study of learning, attention, and taffeta
“flowerfly” because it is so active perception.
in pollinating flowers. The teacher used a tachistoscope to tagliatelle
encourage the students to read n
syssarcosis faster. / TtBlyBStel(T)C /
n L > It
/ TsisBrSkPsDs / tachycardia pasta in the shape of noodles.
Gk n Last night’s dinner was a simple
the junction of two or more bones / TtakDSkBrdGE / tagliatelle with pesto.
by means of attached muscles. Gk
The dentist explained that there relatively rapid heart action tahini
was an abnormality in the way the whether physiological or n
syssarcosis of Thomas’s jaw pathological. / tEShG(T)nG /
functioned. Cardiologists have successfully Ar
used electrical shocks to treat a smooth paste made from sesame
systematic severe ventricular tachycardia. seeds.
adj Joyce made a dip with tahini for
/ TsistDSmaZik / tachymetry her guests to eat with crackers and
Gk vegetables.
marked by or manifesting method tachyon
or orderly procedure. n taiaha
Maria’s systematic approach to / StakGTBn /
drawing stunts her creativity. Gk tailleur
a hypothetical particle held to
systematician travel faster than light. tailory
The tachyon plays a large role in
systole science fiction stories that involve taint
time travel.
tabard taipan
n tachytely
/ StabE(r)d / talapoin
F>E tacit n
a tunic with or without short / StalETpOin /
sleeves worn by a knight over his Tacitean Mon > Pg > F
armor and emblazoned with his adj a western African monkey that is
arms. / TtasEStGEn / greenish above and whitish beneath
At the Renaissance Fair, the knight L name with a black face and yellowish
wearing the white tabard won the of or relating to the Roman whiskers.
jousting contest. historian Tacitus or resembling his The talapoin is one of the smallest
style of writing. of all African monkeys, weighing
tabletop The biting Tacitean brevity of the only about three pounds.
Senator’s speech had more impact
tacan than the rambling casual style of talaria
his opponent. n pl
/ tESla(a)rGE /
tackle L
winged shoes fastened to the ankles
tacky and chiefly used as an attribute of
the god Hermes or Mercury of
taco classical mythology.
The talaria symbolize the speed
tactical with which Hermes acts as the
messenger of the gods.
Page 255 of 289

talc talons Tammanyism
n pl n
talcky / StalEnz / / StamEnGTizEm /
adj L>F>E Amer name
/ StalkG / the claws of a bird of prey. the principle or practice of seeking
Ar > L > F + Ecf The eagle’s beak and talons are municipal political control through
of, relating to, or containing talc. indeed a formidable sight. corruption and bossism.
Benedict noticed that the rocks Tammanyism was rife in New York
scattered on the path had a talcky tamarin City politics in the 1870s.
appearance. n
/ StamErDn / tamper
talent Galibi > F
n [has near homonym: tamarind] any tanager
/ StalEnt / of numerous small chiefly South
Gk > L > E American monkeys that are related tanbark
[Note: The definition provided is to the marmosets and have silky
not the one most commonly fur, a long tail, and lower canine tandoori
associated with this word.] any of teeth that are longer than the adj
several ancient units of weight, as a incisors. / tBnSdU(E)rG /
Babylonian unit equal to 3,600 When put on the defense, the lion Hindi
shekels. tamarin raises its golden mane. cooked in a cylindrical clay or
The talent, probably of Babylonian earthenware oven over charcoal.
origin, was the basic unit of weight tamarind Meera made tandoori chicken and
among the ancient Hebrews. n vegetables for Sanjay’s birthday
/ StamErDnd / dinner.
taligrade Indian geog name > Ar > Pg&Sp
the fruit of a widely cultivated tangemon
talipot tropical tree that has seeds that are n
n cooked and also ground into meal. / tanSjemEn /
/ StalETpBt / After dinner, Ravi offered his geog name + Ar > L > F > E
Skt > Beng visitors some sweets made from the fruit of a hybrid between the
a showy fan palm bearing a crown tamarind. tangerine and the lemon.
of gigantic fan-shaped leaves that At the farmers’ market Pauline
are used as umbrellas and fans and tamarisk bought a pint of strawberries, a
when cut into strips as a substitute n tangemon, and a papaya to make a
for writing paper. / StamErDsk / fruit salad.
The illustrator’s beautiful collages L>E
made of talipot earned the book the a shrub or tree having tiny narrow tangent
Caldecott Medal. leaves and masses of minute
flowers. tangential
talkfest Since its importation, tamarisk has adj
become the dominant plant along / tanSjenchEl /
tallage streambeds in many western states. L
n acting on or lying on a line that
/ Stalij / tambouriens touches something at only one
E point.
a toll or fee paid by a feudal tenant tambourin Sharif wrote the equation on a line
to his lord. n tangential to the circle.
The farm family paid their annual / StambErDn /
tallage to their lord in fresh fruit Per > Ar > F tangentially
and vegetables. [has near homonym: tambourine] a
lively old Provençal dance tangibility
tallyho originally accompanied by a long
narrow drum.
Madeleine, a student of dance
history, taught herself the
tambourin from an old book.
Page 256 of 289

tangle tarriance taxonomically
v adv
/ StaNgEl / tarsier / TtaksESnBmDk(E)lG /
Scand > E n Gk > F + Ecff
involve so as to hamper, obstruct, / StBrsGTC / with regard to the principles of
or embarrass. L>F scientific classification.
Corinna found herself more and any of a family of small chiefly On the biology final the students
more involved in a bureaucratic nocturnal and arboreal carnivorous were shown photographs of five
and administrative tangle. primates of the Malay Archipelago common plants and animals and
that have large round eyes, long were asked to identify them
tango legs, and a long nearly hairless tail. taxonomically.
n Its large eyes and acute hearing
/ StaN(T)gP / enable the tarsier to find its prey at taxonomist
African > Sp night.
a ballroom dance of Spanish- teachable
American origin in three-quarter tarsus adj
time characterized by posturing, n / StGchEbEl /
frequent pointing positions, and a / StBrsEs / E
great variety of steps. Gk > L capable of being taught.
Ned and Naomi learned the the part of the vertebrate's foot Socrates had no doubt that virtue
Argentine tango while in college. between the metatarsus and the leg was teachable if he could only
: ankle. figure out what it was.
tangoreceptor When the orthopedist said Joanne
had a medial fracture of the tarsus, teak
tankard he meant that she had a broken
ankle. teal
tannin n
Tasmanian / StGl /
tanning adj E
/ tazSmCnGEn / [has homonyms: teel, til] a
tapia Pacific geog name variable color averaging a dark
of or belonging to the southern greenish blue.
tapioca Pacific island of Tasmania. In the mid ’90s teal was a popular
n The Tasmanian wolf is a marsupial color for new motor vehicles.
/ TtapGSPkE / animal that used to live in Australia
Tupi > Pg&Sp as well as Tasmania. teammate
a preparation of cassava starch
processed into granular, flake, tattle tearstain
pellet, or flour form and used as a
thickening agent in liquid foods, as tautologous technicality
pudding, soups, or juicy pies. n
Sam’s recipe for blueberry pie calls tavern / TteknESkalEZG /
for two tablespoons of quick- Gk + Ecf
cooking tapioca. tawny a detail that has meaning only for
adj the specialist.
tappable / StOnG / Because of a legal technicality, a
E mistrial was declared and the
tappet of a brownish orange to light brown defendant had to be retried for the
color. offense.
taraxein In the well-known children’s story,
the tawny scrawny lion loves carrot technician
tardily stew.
tectonics
tarogato taxeme
tectorial
tarot taxiway
tediously
tarpon
Page 257 of 289

teemed telemark televangelist
v n n
/ StGmd / / StelETmBrk / / TtelDSva(a)njElDst /
E Norw geog name Gk
[has homonym: teamed] abounded. a turn in which the ski that is to be a preacher who conducts regularly
The fort, which teemed with on the outside of the turn is televised religious programs.
historic interest before the area advanced considerably ahead of the The prominent televangelist liked to
flooded, will eventually be other ski and then turned inward at recall his days as an itinerant
reconstructed. a steadily widening angle until the revival preacher.
actual turn.
teeter Jason, still a novice skier, marveled television
at the beautiful form of Astrid’s n
teetotal telemark. / StelETvizhEn /
Gk + L
teetotum teleology a medium of communication
n whereby images and sounds are
tegumentary / telGSBlEjG / broadcast to receiving sets.
Gk + Gk If it weren’t for television, Jack
teknonymy the use of design, purpose, or utility wouldn’t know what was going on
n as an explanation of any natural in the world.
/ tekSnBnEmG / phenomenon.
Gk + Gk The theory of evolution relies telos
the custom of naming the parent heavily on teleology. n
after the child. / StGTlBs /
Some cultures employ teknonymy, telepathic Gk
while in the United States children adj an ultimate end or object.
are often named for their parents. / TtelESpathik / Finding the Holy Grail was the
Gk + Gk telos of Sir Galahad’s quest.
teledu of or relating to apparent
n communication from one mind to telyn
/ StelETdV / another other than through the
Malay channels of sense. tempeh
a small carnivorous mammal of the The twins seemed to have some sort n
mountains of Java and Sumatra of telepathic mode of / StemTpC /
resembling the badger and like the communication. Jav
skunk secreting an offensive fluid an Asian food prepared by
which it can expel a short distance. telepathist fermenting soybeans.
A teledu infected the region of a Lauren suggested that Celia
whole village with its offensive telescope crumble some tempeh in the
odor. n enchilada casserole for some extra
/ StelETskPp / protein.
telefacsimile Gk
an optical instrument for viewing temperamental
telegenic distant objects by means of the adj
refraction of light rays through a / Ttemp(E)rESmentFl /
telegram lens. L
Through the telescope Jorge marked by excessive sensitivity and
telegrammic watched the lunar eclipse. sudden impulsive and often
explosive changes of mood.
telegraphic When the temperamental player
disputed the umpire’s call, he was
ejected from the game.
temperance
Page 258 of 289

temperature tenebrism terminate
n n
/ StempE(r)TchU(E)r / / StenETbrizEm / termite
L L+E n
degree of hotness or coldness a style of painting typically / StErTmIt /
measured on one of several associated with the painter L
arbitrary scales based on some Caravaggio that submerges most of any of numerous pale-colored, soft-
observable phenomenon (as the the forms depicted in shadow but bodied, small to medium-sized
expansion of mercury). dramatically illuminates the social insects with a highly
In Washington, D.C., the average remaining forms by a beam of developed caste system of the order
temperature ranges from about 30 light. Isoptera.
degrees in winter to about 86 The photographer created a A termite has two pairs of
degrees in summer. photographic sort of tenebrism. membranous wings nearly equal in
size.
temporal tenebrous
adj ternary
/ Stemp(E)rEl / tentacled adj
L adj / StErnErG /
of or relating to time as opposed to / StentDkEld / L
eternity. L [has homonyms: ternery, turnery]
Temporal matters concerned Mr. having elongate flexible simple or containing, consisting of, or
Poke much more than branched processes that are borne relating to three different parts (as
philosophical questions about his by animals chiefly on the head or elements, atoms, radicals, or
soul. about the mouth. components).
All tentacled animals fascinate Dave listed sulfuric acid, which
temporarily Kevin, but jellyfish are his favorite. consists of hydrogen, sulfur, and
oxygen, as an example of a ternary
temporary tentativeness acid.
n
tempt / StentEZivnDs / terpsichorean
L adj
temptation the quality or state of being / TtErpTsikESrGEn /
uncertain or hesitant. Gk
tenancy The immense importance of the of or relating to dancing or
game accounted for much of the choreography.
tendril players’ tentativeness and Geoffrey is interested in the
n overdeliberateness. terpsichorean arts and wants to
/ StendrEl / major in dance when he goes to
L? > F tenuity college.
a portion or the whole of a leaf or
stem that is modified into a slender tephra terrene
spirally coiling sensitive organ adj
serving to attach a plant. tepidity / teSrGn /
The tendril of the grapevine L
wrapped itself so tightly around the terete [has homonym: terrine] of or
gate’s lock that it was difficult to adj relating to this world or life :
open the gate. / tESrGt / mundane.
L The missionary feels that all this
tendu approximately cylindrical but attention is out of place for such a
adj usually tapering at one or both terrene creature as himself.
/ tBMdX / ends.
L>F Chi Ming looked up from the sea terrestrially
extended in a taut manner, as a leg bottom and saw the terete form of a
in ballet. barracuda silhouetted against the terrier
Jordan did a series of leg exercises Sun.
in a tendu position. territory
termagant
terminal
Page 259 of 289

terror testify tetraploid
n v
/ SterE(r) / / StestETfI / tetrapodous
L L adj
a state of intense fright or make a solemn declaration under / teStrapEdEs /
apprehension : stark fear. oath for the purpose of establishing Gk + Gk
Franklin D. Roosevelt warned, a fact (as in a court). having four feet or walking
“The only thing we have to fear is A psychiatrist was called on to appendages.
fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, testify regarding the mental state of Tetrapodous animals are usually
unjustified terror which paralyzes the defendant. referred to as “quadrupeds.”
needed efforts to convert retreat textile
into advance.” testy
terrorism adj thalassocrat
/ StestG / n
terrorist L>F>E / JESlasETkrat /
n [has homonym: testee] easily Gk
/ SterErDst / annoyed : irritable. one who has maritime supremacy.
L>F The mayor became quite testy when In Twenty Thousand Leagues
an advocate or practitioner of terror asked about his private financial Under the Sea, Captain Nemo is
as a means of coercion. dealings. the perfect thalassocrat.
When the former terrorist came to
power, he immediately denounced tether thallophyte
the use of terror as a political tool. n n
/ SteLE(r) / / SthalETfIt /
terse Scand? > E Gk + Gk
something (as a rope or chain) by any plant of a primary division of
tertian which an animal is fastened so that the plant kingdom including the
it can range or feed only within the algae and fungi.
tessaraglot radius allowed. A fungus is a non-chlorophyll-
Joan used Rover’s leash as a tether bearing thallophyte.
tessellation to tie him to the bike rack before
she went into the supermarket. thalpotic
tesseract
n tetherball thanatology
/ StesETrakt / n n
Gk + Gk / SteLEr(T)bOl / / TJanEStBlEjG /
the four-dimensional analogue of a Scand? + ON > E Gk
cube. a game which is played with a ball the description or study of the
“Going beyond the fourth suspended by a string from an phenomena of somatic death.
dimension to the fifth dimension upright pole and in which the Thanatology is concerned with the
would be a tesseract,” explained object of each contestant is to wrap notion of death as popularly
Mrs. Whatsit. the string around the pole by perceived.
striking the ball in a direction
testament opposite to the other. thatch
Paula was injured playing
testator tetherball when she was thatching
n accidentally struck by the ball.
/ SteTstCZE(r) / theatrocracy
L tetragrammaton
a person who leaves a will or n thelygenic
testament in force at his death. / TtetrESgramEtEn /
When the wishes of the testator Gk
were made known, the local public the Hebrew word of four letters
library was a half million dollars constituting a name of God usually
richer. transliterated as YHWH or YHVH.
Out of reverence or for fear of
desecration, some pious Jews do
not pronounce or write the
tetragrammaton.
Page 260 of 289

theologaster theorize thermal
n v n
/ thGSBlETgastE(r) / / SthGETrIz / / SthErmEl /
Gk + Lcf Gk Gk > L
a shallow theologian; especially : speculate or generalize from facts. a rising body of warm air.
one who pretends to possess great Dr. Ahmad tried to theorize an Steve watched a couple of red-
knowledge relating to the explanation for his data. tailed hawks soaring upward in a
presentation of the traditional thermal.
doctrines of a religion or religious theory
group. thermoammeter
The bishop warned his flock to theosophy
beware of the theologaster who thermolabile
would subvert the word of God with theremin
his vain imaginings. n thermolysis
/ StherEmDn / n
theology Russ name / (T)thErSmBlEsDs /
n a purely melodic instrument of the Gk + Gk
/ thGSBlEjG / electronic family typically played the dissipation of heat from the
Gk by moving the right hand between living body.
the study of God and his relation to two projecting electrodes with the Thermolysis is accomplished by
humans and the world. left hand controlling dynamics and evaporation, excretion, and
Though Max is not personally articulation. radiation.
religious, she is fascinated by Paula was asked to play her
theology. theremin at the electronic music thermophilous
festival. adj
theomachy / (T)thErSmBfElEs /
n theriatrics Gk + Gk
/ thGSBmEkG / n pl of, relating to, or being an organism
Gk + Gk / TthirGSatriks / growing at a high temperature.
a battle or strife among the gods. Gk Thermophilous bacteria can
In the Iliad and the Odyssey, the science of veterinary medicine. flourish at temperatures exceeding
Homer relates many instances of Joanna bewildered all her friends 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
theomachy in which humans are when she said that her father, a
the unfortunate victims. veterinarian, is a specialist in thermos
theriatrics.
theorbo therophyte
n theriomorphic n
/ thGSOr(T)bP / adj / SJirETfIt /
Turkish > Slovenian > It / TthirGESmOrfik / Gk
an obsolete 17th century musical Gk an annual plant that overwinters as
instrument like a lute but having having an animal form. a seed.
two necks. Lydia’s boutique displayed Because a therophyte can endure
The young bard played a madrigal theriomorphic creamers in the unfavorable conditions as a seed, it
on the theorbo. forms of a cow and a hippo. can survive in deserts.
theorem theriomorphism thersitical
theoretician therm thew

n n
/ TthGErEStishEn / / SthErm / thickener
Gk Gk
one who formulates theories (as to 100,000 British thermal units. thief
account for perceived phenomena). Gas utilities frequently use the
Dr. Freud’s work as a theoretician therm as a measure of gas
in psychoanalysis earned him an consumption.
international reputation.
Page 261 of 289

thievery thorough throes
n adj n pl
/ SthGv(E)rG / / SthEr(T)P / / SthrPz /
E E E
the act, practice, or an instance of marked by sound systematic [has homonym: throws] a
stealing. attention to all aspects and details. condition of struggle, anguish,
Videocameras were installed A thorough music practice session disorder, or confusion characteristic
throughout the warehouse to for Keith usually takes about an of a transitional period (as the
prevent thievery by the workers. hour. active phase of creation of some
new thing).
thieves thoughtful In the throes of a search for a new
superintendent, the school board
thievish thrasonic ignored major problems that
deserved its attention.
thighbone threadiness
thrombolytic
thigmoreceptor thremmatology
n thrombophlebitis
thimble / TthremEStBlEjG /
Gk throttle
thimbleful the science of breeding animals and
plants under domestication. thrush
thionic The dog breeder’s bookshelf
contained several textbooks on thuggery
thirtieth thremmatology.
thumbscrew
thixotropic threptic n
adj adj / SthEmTskrV /
/ TthiksEStrBpik / / Sthreptik / E+L>F>E
Gk + Gk Gk a screw whose head is flattened at
of, relating to, or exhibiting the of or relating to the feeding or the side so that the screw may be
property of a gel that becomes fluid rearing of offspring especially turned by the thumb and forefinger.
when shaken or stirred and settles among ants or other social insects. Lois tightened the last thumbscrew
again to a gel when left Although ants share many physical on her new computer desk.
undisturbed. and social traits, distinct varieties
Mayonnaise is an example of a differ in their colonizing and thunderclap
thixotropic fluid. threptic methods. n
/ SthEndErTklap /
tholobate thrice E+E
adv a sudden crash of thunder.
Thomism / SthrIs / The thunderclap sent Mom
n E scurrying about the house to close
/ StPTmizEm / three times. windows.
It name Harold does his exercise regimen
a theological theory deriving from thrice weekly. thurification
the Italian theologian Thomas n
Aquinas. throbbed / Tth(y)UrEfDSkCshEn /
Thomism teaches that philosophy v Gk > L > F > E
and theology have separate spheres / SthrBbd / the act, process, or an instance of
that reach conclusions that support imit? > E censing.
each other. pulsated or vibrated in a rhythmic Prayers were offered and a
manner. thurification was performed around
thooid The school bus driver’s temples the body of the deceased.
throbbed after he had been driving
noisy children for two hours. thurm
Page 262 of 289

thwarted tight tinctured
v v
/ SthwO(E)rZDd / tighten / StiN(k)chE(r)d /
ON > E v L
opposed successfully. / StItFn / tinted or stained with a color.
The dog was not easily thwarted Scand > E Kirsten picked a blossom tinctured
when it attempted to go into the [has homonym: titan] fix more with deep blue.
house with Brian. securely in place.
Lisa tried to tighten the cap on the tinge
Thyestean soda bottle so that it wouldn’t leak v
adj inside the cooler. / Stinj /
/ thISestGEn / L>E
Gk name tightwad color with a slight shade or stain :
cannibal. tint.
The 1992 film about a Thyestean tignum Seeing the rainbow tinge the sandy
doctor known as “Hannibal the beach is Lauren’s most vivid
Cannibal” won five Academy till memory of her vacation.
Awards.
tillage tiniest
thymus adj
tilleul / StInGDst /
thyroiditis n E
n / tDSyEl / most small or diminutive.
/ TthITrOiSdIZDs / L>F Mrs. Yost said, “Whatever we learn
Gk + Lcf a pale greenish yellow. has a purpose and whatever we do
inflammation of the endocrine The tinge of tilleul on Carla’s face affects everything and everyone
gland which produces a hormone convinced her mother that she else, if even in the tiniest way.”
affecting growth, development, and really was sick. tintinnabulary
metabolic rate. adj
Dr. Dowd explained that Gary’s timbale / TtintESnabyETlerG /
thyroiditis was caused by his n L + Ecf
having the mumps. / StimbEl / of, relating to, or characterized by
F bells or their sounds.
tiara [has homonyms: timbal, tymbal] a The bell ringers gave a
creamy mixture (as of chicken, tintinnabulary rendition of “Winter
ticketer lobster, cheese, or fish) cooked in a Wonderland.”
drum-shaped mold or in individual tippee
ticklenburg molds or cups.
After the salad dishes were cleared, tippet
tidal Max served a curried chicken n
timbale. / StipDt /
tiddledies E
timbrel a shoulder cape of fur or cloth often
tiers with hanging ends.
n pl timeliness Mrs. Weston begged Jane to put on
/ Sti(E)rz / her tippet so that she would not
F timid catch cold.
[has homonym: tears] rows, ranks,
or layers of articles; especially : timocracy tiqueur
rows arranged one above another. n
The top two tiers of Gina’s wedding timoneer / tGSkEr /
cake got smashed in transport to F
the reception. tinamou one subject to a convulsive motion
of some muscles, especially of the
tiffin face.
Mary had become a tiqueur, with a
tige constant twitch near her eye.
tigerish tiredness
Page 263 of 289

tiresome tivoli toluene
adj n n
/ StI(E)rsEm / / StivElG / / StBlyETwGn /
E + Ecf It geog name ISV
possessing a quality that bores or a game resembling bagatelle and a liquid aromatic hydrocarbon that
annoys : irritatingly tedious. played on a special oblong board or is used as a solvent, in organic
The lecturer went into so many table. synthesis, and as an antiknock
details that listening to him was June and Monty learned to play agent in gasoline.
tiresome. tivoli on their aunt’s antique game Toluene is used as a raw material
table. for organic compounds such as
tissuey TNT and some dyes and
toadstool pharmaceuticals.
titan
n toehold tomahawk
/ StItFn /
Gk tofu tomatillo
[has homonym: tighten] one that n n
stands out among others of a group / StP(T)fV / / TtPmEStG(T)(y)P /
especially for greatness of stature Jpn Nahuatl > Sp
or achievement. bean curd. any of several solanaceous plants
Frank Lloyd Wright was and is a Charmagne ordered Thai rice with fruits resembling small
titan in furniture design and noodles with tofu. tomatoes.
architecture. The television chef explained that
toggle the tomatillo is rich in vitamins A
titanic n and C.
adj / StBgEl /
/ tIStanik / unknown tomato
Gk a wood or metal pin inserted in a
colossal, gigantic. nautical knot to make it more tomboyish
World War II brought political secure or easier to slip.
change on a titanic scale to Noah pulled the toggle to loosen tombstones
Europe. the knot in the anchor rope. n pl
/ StVmTstPnz /
titanism toile Gk > L > AF > E + E
n inscribed stones placed over
tithable / StwBl / graves.
adj L>F Vandals had removed tombstones
/ StILEbEl / an upholstery and drapery fabric. as a Halloween prank.
E When their new couch arrived,
subject or liable to payment of Martin and Linda were horrified to tonette
tithes. find that it was upholstered in a
The church asked for a tenth of flowery toile instead of plain blue tongawalla
each parishioner’s tithable denim.
property. tongs
toilsome
titillate adj tonic
/ StOilsEm / n
titubant F > AF > E + E / StBnik /
marked by or full of effort. Gk
titular Tula set herself the toilsome job of something that invigorates,
cleaning the garage. restores, refreshes, or stimulates.
A glorious sunrise can work as a
tolerable tonic and uplift downcast spirits.
tolerate tonnage
tollgate tonneau
tonsils
Page 264 of 289

topepo tornado torr
n n
topogaphize / tOrSnC(T)dP / / StO(E)r /
L > Sp It name
toque a violent destructive whirling wind [has homonyms: tor, tore] a unit of
n accompanied by a funnel-shaped pressure equal to 1/760 of an
/ StPk / cloud that progresses in a narrow atmosphere and very nearly equal
Sp > F path over the land. to the pressure of a column of
[has homonym: toke] a woman’s In a few moments of unforgettable mercury 1 millimeter high at 0
small brimless hat made in any of terror, a tornado roared into the degrees Celsius and standard
various soft close-fitting shapes. Texas town, killing three people gravity.
Margo buttoned her jacket and and destroying about 300 houses. Jill learned that 1 torr is an
adjusted her blue velvet toque in extremely small amount of
front of the mirror. torpedo pressure.
toquilla torpid torrenticole

adj
torero / StOrpDd / torrone
n L n
/ tESre(T)rP / sluggish in functioning or acting. / tESrPnG /
L > Sp Eric’s parents told him that too L > Sp > It
a bullfighter. many hours watching television a candy made of honey and
Pepe dreamed of being a famous would make his mind torpid. almonds.
torero like his uncle Luis. For the holidays the catalog offers
torporific a variety of Italian confections,
toreutics adj including panettone and torrone.
n pl / TtO(r)pESrifik /
/ tESrVZiks / L torsion
Gk producing mental or spiritual
the art or process of working in sluggishness or apathy. torte
metal especially by embossing or Ben’s allergy medicine had a n
engraving. torporific effect, robbing him of / StOrZE /
Archaeological artifacts attest to energy. L > It? > G
the ancient Celts’ excellence in [has homonym and near homonym:
toreutics. torque torta and tort] a cake or pastry
made of many eggs, sugar, and
torii Torquemada often grated nuts or dry bread
n crumbs in place of flour and baked
tormented / TtO(r)k(w)ESmBdE / in a large flat form, being
adj Sp sometimes filled with jam and
/ StOrTmentDd / one who harasses in a manner to usually covered with a rich frosting
L injure, grieve, or afflict usually Luke baked a chocolate torte for
distressed. because of some difference of his sister’s birthday.
The tormented hypochondriac outlook or opinion : oppressor.
finally decided to seek help from a The new police chief has been torus
psychotherapist. described as a ruthless
Torquemada. totalitarian
tormentil adj
n torquemeter / (T)tPTtalESterGEn /
/ StO(r)mEnTtil / n L + Ecff
L>E / StO(r)kTmGZE(r) / of or relating to centralized control
[Note: Could be confused with L > F + Gk by an autocratic leader or
tormentilla.] a yellow-flowered an instrument to measure or record hierarchy.
Eurasian herb with a root that a force that produces or tends to Totalitarian theory and practice
contains an astringent and is used produce rotation or torsion. are solidly opposed to any
sometimes in tanning and dyeing. A torquemeter is used to measure institutional division of power.
The hillside was ablaze with the the power delivered by airplane
bright color of tormentil. propellers, jet engines, and other
rotating machinery.
Page 265 of 289

totem tourniquet trachodon
n n
/ StPZEm / towhead / StrakETdBn /
Ojibwa Gk + Gk
[Note: The definition provided is townsite a dinosaur of a genus comprising
not the one most commonly large duck-billed dinosaurs of the
associated with this word.] a dark toxicity Upper Cretaceous that have a broad
reddish orange—called also “Mars spatulate snout.
red.” toxicology The trachodon had several hundred
Jessica’s fiery personality perhaps n blunt teeth and fed on twigs, seeds,
explains why she wants to paint her / TtBksESkBlEjG / fruits, and pine needles.
room totem. Gk
a science that deals with poisons traction
totipalmate and their effect on living organisms
and with the clinical, industrial, tractor
totipotency legal, or other problems involved.
n Dr. Krause quickly consulted his tradal
/ tPStipEZEnsG / textbook on toxicology to find the
L+L antidote. trademark
ability to generate or regenerate a
whole organism from a part. toxoid tradition
Certain cells from tadpoles have
been shown to have developmental trabeated traffic
totipotency. adj
/ StrCbGTCZDd / tragic
tottered L adj
v designed or constructed of / Strajik /
/ StBZE(r)d / horizontal beams or lintels. Gk
E A trabeated structural form gives a disastrous, fearful.
staggered, wobbled. building a solid, boxy shape. It is hard to conceive of the tragic
“Don’t look down,” advised Milo significance of the atomic bomb’s
as the bug tottered upward on tracheitis very existence.
unsteady legs. n
/ TtrCkGSIZDs / tragopan
toucanet Gk
n inflammation of the main trunk of trainable
/ StVkETnet / the system of tubes by which air
Tupi > Pg > F passes to and from the lungs in traineau
any of several small South and vertebrates. n
Central American toucans Because of the singer’s tracheitis, / trCSnP /
predominantly green in color. many of her concerts had to be F
While visiting her cousin in Costa canceled. sledge, sleigh.
Rica, Carla enjoyed the company of During the winter, guests at the
her pet toucanet. tracheole lodge are met at the station by a
n long, horse-drawn traineau.
tough / StrCkGTPl /
adj Gk > L trait
/ StEf / one of the minute delicate endings
E of a branched air-conveying tubule traitor
[has homonym: tuff] extremely of an insect.
difficult to cope with or In the respiratory system of insects, traitorous
comprehend. oxygen diffuses through the
The questions on the final exam tracheole to enter the body cells. tramontane
were so tough that only the well-
prepared students got a passing trample
grade.
tranquil
tourlourou
tranquillo
Page 266 of 289

transaction transistorize transposable
adj
transcalent transitory / tranzSpPzEbEl /
adj L
transceiver / StranzETtPrG / capable of being interchanged.
L In the early 1950s geneticists
transcript marked by the quality of passing discovered that transposable genes
away : evanescent, transient. may change their position on the
transcutaneous Last week’s homily emphasized the chromosome.
adj transitory nature of material
/ TtranzkyVStCnGEs / wealth. transposition
L
passing or entering through the transliterate transtracheal
skin. adj
Transcutaneous electrical nerve translucently / tranzStrCkGEl /
stimulation was used to relieve adv L + Gk
Kim’s chronic back pain. / tran(t)SslVsFntlG / extending or effected through the
L + Ecf trachea or windpipe.
transept in a manner permitting the passage Oxygen had to be supplied to the
of light and diffusing it so that patient through a transtracheal
transfer objects beyond cannot be clearly tube.
distinguished.
transfixed The frosted glass in the window let transversal
v the sunlight in translucently.
/ tranzSfikst / trapezoidal
L transmittal
affixed, fastened, or held n trapunto
motionless by or as if by piercing / tran(t)SsmiZFl / n
especially with an absorbing L / trESpVn(T)tP /
emotion or interest. an act, process, or instance of L
They were all transfixed by the giving or conveying (a disease or a decorative quilted fabric design in
Trivium’s soothing voice. infection) to another person or high relief.
organism. The oldest coverlet in the museum’s
transform Washing one’s hands is an effective collection features a central
method of preventing the medallion worked in trapunto and
transhumance transmittal of germs. embroidery.
n
/ tranzShyVmEn(t)s / transparency traumatic
L > Sp > F adj
[has homonym: transhumants] transparent / trOSmaZik /
seasonal movement of livestock adj Gk
and especially sheep between / tranzSpa(a)rEnt / of, relating to, or resulting from an
mountain and lowland pastures. L injury or wound to the human body
Transhumance remains an having the property of transmitting caused by the application of
essential pastoral activity in many light so that bodies lying beyond external force or violence.
sheep-raising areas. are entirely visible. It took Marsha years to get over
Because the protective book cover her traumatic experience with the
transilient was transparent, the colorful book revolving door.
jacket could be seen through it.
transistor travail
n transpicuous
/ tranSzistE(r) / traveler
L transpierce
a tiny electronic device that
amplifies, oscillates, or switches transportee
the flow of current.
If the transistor had not been
invented, today’s handheld
electronic devices would not exist.
Page 267 of 289

traverse tremolo triceratops
v n n
/ trESvErs / / StremETlP / / trISserETtBps /
L L > It Gk
go or travel across or over. a perceptible rapid variation of any animal or fossil of the huge
The minivan will traverse the pitch in the voice especially in herbivorous dinosaurs having a
middle of the state during the singing. skull with two large horns above
tornado watch. Tremolo in vocal music and vibrato the eyes, a median horn on the
in instrumental music are similar nose, and a great bony hood or
treacle sound effects. transverse crest over the neck.
n Of all Angela’s stuffed dinosaurs,
/ StrGkEl / trenchancy the triceratops is her favorite.
Gk > L > F > E
a blend of molasses, sugar, and trepak trichologist
corn syrup used as a table syrup. n
Put a small amount of treacle or a / trESpBk / trichotillomania
bit of sugar on your porridge. Russ n
a fiery Ukrainian folk dance / TtrikETtilESmCnGE /
tread performed by men and featuring an Gk + Gk + Gk
extension of the legs alternately abnormal desire to pull out one’s
treadle from a squatting position. hair.
n Olga’s favorite characters in The Susan has been diagnosed with
/ StredFl / Nutcracker are the Cossacks who trichotillomania, which explains
E dance the trepak. her lack of eyebrows and eyelashes.
a swiveling or lever device pressed
by the foot to drive a machine. trephone trichotomized
Janna set a basket of magazines on v
the antique sewing machine’s trespassing / trISkBZETmIzd /
treadle. Gk
trevally divided into three parts, elements,
treasurable or classes.
triacetate Sigmund Freud trichotomized the
treasurer mind into id, ego, and superego.
triannulate
treaty tricolette
triaxial
trebly tricolor
tribology
trellises n tricot
/ trISbBlEjG /
tremble Gk tricuspid
a study that deals with the design,
trembling friction, wear, and lubrication of tridactylous
v interacting surfaces in relative adj
/ Stremb(E)liN / motion to each other (as in bearings / trISdaktDlEs /
L>F>E or gears). Gk
quaking with or as if with fear or After getting an undergraduate having three fingers or toes.
other emotion. degree in mechanical engineering, The museum exhibit included the
She found him trembling from Jeff studied for a master’s degree fossilized footprint of a tridactylous
fright in a corner with a gun in in tribology. dinosaur.
each hand.
tremellose
Page 268 of 289

tridental trimaran troching
adj n
/ trISdentFl / tripartite / StrPTkiN /
L adj F>E
having the form of a three-pronged / trISpBrTtIt / [has homonym with regional label:
scepter or spear serving in classical L troking] a small point of a stag’s
mythology as the attribute or consisting of three parts or antler.
symbol of a sea god. divisions. During mating-season fights, it is
It is easy to see that Paul’s In Mr. Baker’s tripartite system of common for a troching or two to
tridental prop is actually a evaluation, one number represents break off of a stag’s antler.
modified pitchfork. classroom participation, one
number represents homework trochlea
triduum effort, and one number represents
grades. troglobiont
trifecta
n triphibian trombone
/ trISfektE /
L+L triphibious tromometer
a betting pool in which the bettor n
must pick the first, second, and triphthong / TtrPSmBmEZE(r) /
third finishers in a specified race or Gk + Gk
contest in the correct order. triptych an instrument for measuring or
Grandmother liked to bet the detecting minute earth tremors.
trifecta on her weekly visit to the triskaidekaphobia George’s new security system is
racetrack. n based on a tromometer that can
/ TtriTskITdekESfPbGE / detect footfalls anywhere in the
trifid Gk building.
fear of the number 13.
trifle Because of his triskaidekaphobia, trophobiosis
Alton called the front desk and n
trifling asked to be moved from Room / TtrBfPTbISPsDs /
1313. Gk
trifurcate a relation in which an organism of
v trismus one kind aids and protects an
/ StrIfErTkCt / organism of another kind in return
L tritor for some food product.
fork or divide into three branches. The entomologist described the
Under consideration is a proposal triumphant relation between some ants and
to trifurcate the small nation into adj aphids from whom they obtain
Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist / trISEm(p)fEnt / sweet secretions as “trophobiosis.”
sections. L>F>E trophy
conquering, victorious.
trigger The triumphant general was given tropism
a parade in his honor. n
triglycerides / StrPTpizEm /
n pl triumvir Gk
/ trISglisETrIdz / an innate tendency to react in a
Gk + Gk + Ecf trivial definite manner to stimuli.
esters formed from glycerol by Any type of tropism involves
reacting all three of its hydroxy trochee turning toward or away from a
groups with fatty acids. stimulus.
Triglycerides, researchers say,
significantly contribute to the
progression of coronary artery
disease.
trijugate
trillado
Page 269 of 289

troposphere truss tunic
n v n
/ StrPpETsfi(E)r / / StrEs / / St(y)Vnik /
Gk L? > F > E Sem > L
the portion of the mass of air [has near homonym: trust] arrange a simple slip-on garment made with
around Earth that extends outward for cooking by binding the wings or or without sleeves and usually
about seven to ten miles from legs of (as fowl) close to the body. knee-length or longer, belted at the
Earth’s surface. The woman on the Thanksgiving waist, and worn as an under or
The temperature of the troposphere turkey hotline told Kay how to truss outer garment.
decreases with altitude. a turkey properly so that the The prince’s tunic was
stuffing wouldn’t leak out during embroidered with his coat of arms.
trotteur roasting.
turbidity
trottoir trypanosomiasis
n turbulent
troupe / trDSpanEsPSmIEsDs /
Gk > L tureen
truancy an infectious disease spread by
certain bloodsucking insects. turnbuckle
truant American trypanosomiasis occurs n
primarily in the Central and South / StErnTbEkEl /
trudged American tropics. E+L>F>E
v a right-and-left screw link used for
/ StrEjd / tuba tightening a rod or stay.
unknown Each of the tension wires that
marched on foot wearily. tubercle supported the old tree had a
Omar picked up his youngest boy turnbuckle to allow adjustments.
and trudged off down the road, the tuberculate
other three children trotting after turnip
him. tubifacient
turquoise
trumpeter tuft
tussle
truncal tuition
adj tutorial
/ StrENkEl / tumbler
L tuxedo
[has near homonym: truckle] of or tumbleweed
relating to the trunk of the body. tweezer
The paramedics examined Rob for tumefacient
truncal bruises, but his only injury twig
was a broken finger. tumefy n
/ Stwig /
truncheoned tumid E
adj adj a small shoot or branch usually
/ StrEnchEnd / / St(y)VmDd / without its leaves.
L>F>E L Dicken could tell when an
having a nightstick. marked by swelling. unpromising bough or twig still
The truncheoned officer saw no Mark had a badly infected tumid had green life in it.
need to carry a handgun while leg.
walking his beat. twinkling
tumming
trunnion
tumorigenic
tumult
Page 270 of 289

twinkly ulcer umber
adj n
/ StwiNk(E)lG / uliginous / SEmbE(r) /
E adj L
beaming with lively feeling. / yVSlijEnEs / a brown earthen material highly
Beth was quite fond of her twinkly L valued by artists as a permanent
grandpa, who was always ready growing in wet or swampy ground. pigment.
with a good joke. Quentin is making a study of When umber is ground, washed,
uliginous mosses. and dried, it is called “raw
twister umber.”
n ullaged unaccommodating
/ StwistE(r) /
E ulmin unachieved
a tornado, waterspout, sand
column, or dust whirl in which the ulna unadulterated
rotatory ascending movement of a adj
column of air is especially ultimate / TEnESdEltETrCZEd /
apparent. Ecf + L
By the time people see or hear an ultimogeniture pure, unmixed, uncorrupted.
approaching twister, they have just n Children reared in poverty cannot
a few minutes to find shelter. / TEltEmPSjenETchU(E)r / experience the unadulterated
L happiness of childhood that they
twistiness a system of inheritance by which deserve.
the youngest son or sometimes
twitter daughter or collateral heir succeeds unanimity
v to the estate.
/ StwiZE(r) / Mr. Case, deciding that his father’s unappreciative
E adherence to ultimogeniture was adj
utter the successive chirping notes unfair, planned to divide the family / EnESprGshEZiv /
of a bird. farm equally among his siblings E+L
The parakeets fill the petstore with and himself. not having or showing sensitive
song when they twitter. awareness of worth or aesthetic
ultrafiche value.
twoling Tara thought her brother was
ultralight unappreciative of the help she gave
tychism him.
ultramarine
tydie n unasked
/ TEltrEmESrGn /
type L unassimilable
a vivid blue.
typeface The ultramarine of Billy’s eyes is unatonable
enhanced by tinted contact lenses.
typical unbowdlerized
ululate
typographical unbudgeable
Ulyssean adj
tyrant adj / TEnSbEjEbEl /
n / yVSlisGEn / Ecf + L > F
/ StIrEnt / Gk name incapable of being moved or
Gk of, relating to, or resembling shifted.
one who by unfair or unreasonable Ulysses, the hero of Homer’s The poem exemplifies the author’s
demands or rigorous exploitation Odyssey. unbudgeable belief in human
imposes burdens and hardships on James Joyce’s Ulysses describes a goodness.
those under his or her control. single day in the life of his
The Latin teacher, a bitter tyrant, Ulyssean hero, Leopold Bloom. uncanny
gave his students a huge homework
assignment over the holiday break. umbellulone unceremoniously
Page 271 of 289

unceremoniousness unconscionably understudy
n adv n
/ TEnTserESmPnGEsnDs / / TEnSkBnch(E)nEblG / / SEndE(r)TstEdG /
Ecf + Etruscan? > L + Ecf L E+L
state of being informal. in a manner not guided or one who stands prepared to act
Memories of the disagreement controlled by conscience. another’s part or take over the work
began to fade, and soon Mr. Nathan behaved so unconscionably or duties of another.
Knightley conducted himself with in elementary school that his While the leading lady was ill, her
the unceremoniousness of perfect juvenile delinquency surprises no understudy performed admirably in
amity. one. her role.
unchangeable unconscious undine

adj
/ TEnSchCnjEbEl / uncooperative undiscerned
E+F>E adj adj
not capable of being changed : / EnkPSBpErEZiv / / TEndDSsErnd /
immutable. Ecf + L Ecf + L
Mr. Jowett denied that age makes not marked by willingness and unseen.
habits unchangeable. ability to work with others in a Many circumstances had passed
common effort. undiscerned, but the two latest
uncial Mr. Jenkins sighed, “Do you enjoy occurrences were witnessed by
being the most belligerent, several individuals.
uncinus uncooperative child in school?”
n uncoquettish undisguisable
/ TEnSsInEs /
L unction unequally
a small hooklike structure or n
process. / SEN(k)shEn / unequivocally
An uncinus is one of a set of L
structures that the mollusk uses to the anointing of the sick with oil unexpugnable
tear up its food and draw it into its that is a religious rite of healing.
mouth. The Catholic sacrament of extreme unfastidious
unction can be given by a priest to
uncivilly any baptized person who has unfathomable
reached the age of reason. adj
uncle / TEnSfaLEmEbEl /
undecagon E
uncompliant incomprehensible, inscrutable.
undecided Maggie’s poker face was
uncomplimentary completely unfathomable.
adj undecipherable
/ EnkBmplESmentErG / unfavorable
Ecf + L > E undergrowth adj
degrading, derogatory. / TEnSfCvEr(E)bEl /
Betsy felt sure that her new haircut underlier E+L>E
would elicit many uncomplimentary opposed, contrary.
remarks. underling Willa decided the time was
unfavorable for her to tell her
unconcerned underrated mother the news.
v
/ TEndE(r)SrCZDd / unfirmamented
Ecf + L
undervalued.
The students soon learned that they
had underrated the intelligence of
their teacher.
Page 272 of 289

unforeseeable Unitarian unmitigated
adj n
/ TEnfPrSsHEbEl / / TVnESterGEn / unnecessarily
E L adv
incapable of being foreseen, a Christian who believes that the / TEnTneseSserElG /
foretold, or anticipated. deity exists only in one person. Ecf + L
The problem was made worse by a Horace’s father was a Unitarian, not in such a way that it cannot be
number of unforeseeable and his mother was agnostic. otherwise : to a needless degree.
complications. The taxi ride was unnecessarily
unite long because the driver did not
ungregarious know the best route to take.
univalve
ungrudgingly adj unneighborly
/ SyVnETvalv /
unguiferate L unnerve
having or consisting in one valve. v
ungulate The aquatic univalve will usually / EnSnErv /
n attach its eggs to leaves or sticks. E+L
/ SENgyElDt / deprive of courage and physical
L universality strength : cause to become weak
a hoofed typically herbivorous and ineffective especially from
quadruped mammal (as a cow, universe fear.
camel, horse, pig, or elephant). n Only after the rush of adrenaline
The elephant is the largest ungulate / SyVnETvErs / wore off did the horrible accident
in existence. L unnerve the paramedic.
the entire celestial cosmos.
uniaxial Many a philosopher has pondered unobtrusively
adj the question “Are we alone in the adv
/ TyVnGSaksGEl / universe?” / TEnEbStrVsDvlG /
L university E+L
having but one axis. in a manner that is not blatant,
Uniaxial orientation takes place univocal immodest, or overly aggressive.
during the drawing of a filament. The Italian film had English
unkempt subtitles placed unobtrusively near
unicellular adj the bottom of the frame.
/ TEnSkempt /
unideaed E unoccupied
deficient in order or neatness of
uniformity person : disheveled. unparallelable
Janice feared that she would look
unilaterally unkempt after her six-hour flight. unpersuadable
adv adj
/ TyVnESlaZErElG / unknowable / TEnpE(r)SswCdEbEl /
L + L + Ecff L
in a one-sided manner. unlute not capable of being induced by
The dictator unilaterally argument, entreaty, or
proclaimed the action a breach of unmanacle expostulation into some mental
international law and an act of position : adamant.
war. unmerciful Both the Mr. Knightleys were as
unpersuadable on that matter as
uninterrupted unmitigable Emma.
adj
unionize / EnSmiZDgEbEl / unperturbed
Ecf + L
uniquity not causing to make less severe, unpropitious
violent, cruel, intense, painful.
The traffic jam caused unmitigable unpropitiously
anger and frustration in Mr.
Nelson.
Page 273 of 289

unregenerate unsympathetic upbeat
adj adj adj
/ TEnrGSjen(E)rDt / / TEnTsimpEStheZik / / SEpTbGt /
E+L E + Gk E+E
obstinate, stubborn. not exhibiting ready marked by optimism : cheerful,
Orrin’s unregenerate refusal to comprehension of others’ mental happy.
admit he was wrong angered his states : unresponsive. The students came away from the
wife. Aaron found Mrs. Schubert totally pep rally in an upbeat mood.
unsympathetic to his ordeal.
unrehearsed updraft
untenable n
unreliable adj / SEpTdraft /
/ EnStenEbEl / E+E
unremitting E+L an upward movement of air or
adj not able to be defended or other gas.
/ TEnrDSmitiN / maintained. A storm’s life and power are
E+L Arlen found himself in an untenable determined by the middle
constant, incessant. position when his boss asked him to atmospheric winds around the
Doug was a careful and lie to the auditors. central updraft.
unremitting student of political
thought. untimely upheave
adj v
unremunerative / TEnStImlG / / TEpShGv /
E E
unresolved occurring at an inopportune time. lift or raise, usually with great
Slim’s untimely arrival interrupted force.
unscarred the ceremony. The engineer used dynamite to
upheave the boulder.
unseasonable untraceable
adj adj upholsterer
/ TEnSsGz(F)nEbEl / / TEnStrCsEbEl / n
Ecf + L > F > E + Lcf > Ecf Ecf + F > E + Ecf / (T)EpShPlzt(E)rE(r) /
not usual or normal and usually not capable of being tracked down. E
undesirable for the season of the The armored car was robbed of $2 one whose occupation is the
year. million in untraceable bills. covering of furniture with padding
An unseasonable cold snap proved and fabric.
deadly to many of Kate’s roses. untrammeled The upholsterer nearly fainted
when he ripped open the lumpy
unsentimental unvaccinated cushion and found it stuffed with
adj adj rolls of dollar bills.
/ TEnTsentESmentFl / / EnSvaksETnCZEd /
E+L Ecf + L uppityness
not characterized or dominated by not being inoculated with a vaccine
excessive emotion. in order to produce immunity. uprighteously
Jerome tried to be unsentimental in The injured, unvaccinated horse
his assessment of the situation. was given a tetanus antitoxin shot. uraeus
n
unsepulchered unwarrantable / yESrGEs /
Gk > L
unshunnable unweariable [has homonym and near homonym:
ureas and urias] a stylized
unwritten representation of the sacred asp
appearing on the headdress of
ancient rulers especially just over
the forehead and serving as a
symbol of sovereignty.
Robin admired the large golden
uraeus on the pharaoh’s crown.
Page 274 of 289

uranium uveitis vagabonds
n n pl
uranography / TyVvGSIZDs / / SvagETbBndz /
L + Ecf L>F>E
uranometry inflammation of the portion of the individuals who wander about from
eye composed of the iris and ciliary place to place.
urban body together with the choroid Jill and Jenny enjoyed being
coat. vagabonds in Europe the summer
urbane Uveitis in horses is sometimes after they graduated from high
called “moon blindness.” school.
urn uvula
vagarious
ursiform uvular
adj vagile
urticaria / SyVvyElE(r) / adj
L / SvajEl /
usage [Note: Could be confused with L
uvula.] of or relating to the pendent free to move about.
usance fleshy lobe in the posterior border Vagile organisms are inherently
of the soft palate; specifically : difficult to observe, which makes
usufructuary produced with the aid of this lobe. study of their interactions
n Try as she might, Joanie could not challenging.
/ TyVzESfrEkchETwerG / produce a uvular trill.
L vagueness
one having the use or enjoyment of uxoricide n
something. n / SvCgnDs /
Although he leased his farm to a / TEkSsPrETsId / L > F + Ecf
large corporation, Silas remained L+L the quality or state of lacking
the usufructuary of the wooded the murder of a wife by her expression.
sections. husband. Roy’s little eyes began to shine,
The police suspected the missing and they lost their vagueness.
usurp woman was a victim of uxoricide.
vain
utile uxoriously
adj vainglorious
/ SyVZFl / vacancy
L vair
[has homonym: util] practical, vacant n
useful. / Sva(a)(E)r /
Metals such as copper and tin are vacillant L>F>E
particularly utile in manufacturing. a heraldic pattern of interlocking
vacillatory shield-shaped panes.
utmost adj Rosalind had a difficult time trying
/ SvasElETtPrG / to paint the vair of her family’s
utopia L coat of arms.
characterized by changeableness or
utricle indecisiveness. valence
Lacking a strong leader, the n
utterable committee tended to be vacillatory / SvClEn(t)s /
in regard to budget cuts. L
uvala the degree of combining power of
vacuole any element or radical.
Iron has a variable valence: two in
vacuometer ferrous chloride and three in ferric
chloride.
valetudinary
valid
Page 275 of 289

valise vapid vasculature
n adj n
/ vESlGs / / SvapDd / / SvaskyElETchU(E)r /
It > F L L
traveling bag. lacking flavor, zest, animation, or the disposition or arrangement of
Mrs. McDonald asked the flight spirit : uninteresting. blood vessels in an organ or part.
attendant to put her valise in the The couple sat through the vapid In the biology lab, students are
overhead bin. movie simply because they had investigating the vasculature of a
paid good money to see it. fetal pig.
valorization
vapor vasoconstrictor
valuable n
adj / SvCpE(r) / vassalage
/ SvalyEbEl / L n
L>F>E diffused matter floating suspended / SvasElij /
possessing monetary worth in use in air and impairing its L>F>E
or exchange. transparency. a position of subordination or
After quitting her job, Brenda sold The vapor of exhaust hung thick in submission (as to a political power
a few valuable articles and took a the air near the truckstop. or a detrimental influence).
trip to Australia. After unifying China, Kublai Khan
vaporizer sent envoys to neighboring
valuta kingdoms, obliging them to accept
varietal vassalage.
van
variety vastitude
vanadium n
n varioliform / SvastETtVd /
/ vESnCdGEm / adj L
ON goddess / TverGSBlETfOrm / immensity.
a gray or white malleable ductile L + Ecf The vastitude of the proposal held
polyvalent metallic element that is resembling smallpox. him spellbound.
resistant to air, seawater, alkalies, When the relief worker saw the
and reducing acids except refugee’s varioliform lesions, she vaticinal
hydrofluoric acid. suspected an experiment in germ adj
Vanadium is often used as a dye in warfare had taken place. / vEStisFnFl /
ceramics and pottery. L
variometer of, relating to, or containing
vane prophecy.
n variorum Will just laughed at his
/ SvCn / grandmother’s vaticinal utterances,
E various for none of her predictions ever
[has homonyms: vain, vein] a came true.
movable device attached to a spire, variscite
mast, or other elevated object for vaticination
showing the direction of the wind. varlet n
Atop the barn is a metal weather n / vETtisFnSCshEn /
vane in the form of a rooster. / SvBrlDt / L
F something foretold : prediction.
vanillery a low fellow : a base unprincipled The doomsayer’s woeful
n person. vaticination fell on deaf ears.
/ vESnilErG / Some varlet put his parking ticket
L > Sp > F on Claudia’s car. vaunted
a plantation of vanilla. adj
Juan Aguiar owns a large vanillery varsity / SvOntEd /
north of Guatemala City. L>E
vary boasted about : praised to the skies.
vanishing Jess was looking forward to the
vascular vaunted Hawaiian sunshine, but it
vanity rained throughout his vacation.
Page 276 of 289

vector venality venture
n n
/ SvektE(r) / venatic / SvenchE(r) /
L E
a course or compass direction, venatorial an undertaking involving chance,
especially of an airplane. adj risk, or danger.
The pilot received the vector for / TvenEStPrGEl / “My heart was beating finely when
landing from the control tower. L we two set forth in the cold night
of, relating to, or used in hunting. upon this dangerous venture,” he
Vedic As the duck-hunting season begins, confided.
adj Jake can be counted on to retell
/ SvCdik / accounts of his past venatorial verbalize
Skt successes.
of or relating to the most ancient verbiage
sacred writings of the Hindus. vendue
Ivy took a class in Vedic Sanskrit in verbigeration
her first year of graduate school. venenate
verbose
veering venire
v n verbosity
/ Svi(E)riN / / vDSnIrG /
D or G > E L verdigrised
turning, shifting. an entire panel which is drawn for v
The sharks began veering abruptly jury duty and from which a jury is / SvErdETgrGsd /
when the diver pulled the dead fish to be selected. L>F>E
from her bag. On reporting for jury duty, Astrid covered or coated with a green or
was directed to join the venire in bluish deposit especially of copper
vega courtroom 17. carbonates formed on copper,
brass, or bronze surfaces.
vehement vent Five years of weathering
verdigrised the roof over the bay
veil ventilation window from the color of a shiny
n new penny.
/ SvCl / ventrally
L>F>E adv verein
[has homonym: vale] a length of / SventrElG /
cloth worn by women as a covering L veridical
for the head and shoulders and on, near, or in the direction of the adj
often especially in Eastern belly. / vDSridDkEl /
countries for the face. The aquarium fish was striped both L
After arriving at the church, the ventrally and dorsally. conforming to the truth : truthful.
bride frantically announced that The therapist tried to help the
she had forgotten her veil. ventricle patient distinguish veridical
n perceptions from illusory ones.
veined / SventrDSkEl /
L veridicality
velvet one of the chambers of the heart
which receives blood from a verify
velveteen corresponding atrium and from
n which blood is forced into the vermicular
/ TvelvEStGn / arteries.
L > F > E + Ecf The heart patient’s right ventricle vermiform
a clothing fabric usually of cotton is the source of his trouble. adj
in twill or plain weaves made with / SvErmETfOrm /
a short close weft pile in imitation ventricular L
of velvet. wormlike.
Jenny can’t wait to wear her ventripotent Some insect larvae are vermiform.
holiday dress made of dark green
velveteen. vermilion
Page 277 of 289

vermin vesta viability
n n
verminous / SvestE / / TvIESbilEZG /
adj L name L
/ SvErmEnEs / a short wooden match. the ability to live, grow, and
L Robin removed a vesta from the develop.
infested by small animals (as lice, vintage match safe and struck it on The viability of the crop was in
bedbugs, mice) that tend to occur in the grated exterior. question after the severe hailstorm.
great numbers, are difficult to
control, and are offensive as well as vestigial viaduct
injurious.
Mayor Skopek promised to Vesuvian vial
demolish the verminous abandoned adj
buildings. / vDSsVvGEn / viand
L geog name n
vernacularize marked by uncertainty or sudden / SvIEnd /
v outbursts : furious. L>F>E
/ vE(r)SnakyElETrIz / Gerald’s cardiologist advised him an article of food.
L to control his Vesuvian rage lest he The pantry was so full that there
render into or express in a native jeopardize his health. wasn’t room for a single viand
language or dialect of a country, more.
region, or person. veteran
Vera’s attempt to vernacularize the vibrant
dialog in her novel is requiring veterans adj
more research than she had n pl / SvIbrEnt /
anticipated. / SveZErEnz / L
L pulsating with life, vigor, or
verruca ones skilled through length of activity.
service. The nurse had a vibrant personality
version The supervisors depended on the that could cheer even the most
veterans to help the novices on the despondent patient.
versus assembly line.
prep vibrissa
/ SvErsEs / veterinarian
L n vicar
[has near homonym: verses] / TveZErESnerGEn /
against. L vicarious
The landmark court case “Brown one skilled in treating diseases and
versus Board of Education of injuries of animals. vicariously
Topeka” paved the way for school The veterinarian removed a large adv
desegregation. splinter from Misty’s paw. / vISka(a)rGEslG /
L
verticil vettura in a manner experienced or realized
n through imaginative or sympathetic
/ SvErZETsil / vexillary participation in the experience of
L n another.
a circle or whorl of similar body / SveksETlerG / Erin loves to read travel magazines
parts (as flowers about a point on L so that she can vicariously enjoy
an axis). standard-bearer. trips to exotic lands.
A verticil of flowers grew at the tip If the appointed vexillary fell in
of the plant’s stem. battle, it was the duty of the nearest vicinal
soldier to rescue the standard.
verve vicinity
vespetro vicious
Page 278 of 289

vicissitudes vigorish violaceous
n pl n adj
/ vESsisETtVdz / / SvigErish / / TvIESlCshEs /
L Russ > Yiddish? L
fluctuations in condition (as of a charge taken (as by a bookie or of the color violet.
wealth, prosperity, or happiness). gambling house) on bets. The prism cast a violaceous band
One could not have imagined the David won $500 at the races but across Sally’s face.
extreme vicissitudes the Great had to pay his bookie a vigorish of
Depression brought our nation’s $50. violate
populace.
vigorous violently
videlicet adv
vigorously / SvIElEntlG /
vidimus adv L>F>E
n / Svig(E)rEslG / in a manner characterized by
/ SvidEmEs / L>F>E extreme force.
L in a manner full of physical or The hail beat violently against the
an attested copy of a document. mental strength or active force. spring flowers.
In purely legalistic terms, a Jesse vigorously objected to the
notarized document could be called referendum. violet
a “vidimus.”
viga vilely virement
n
/ SvGgE / villager virent
Sp
one of the heavy rafters that is villanelle virgule
often a log and that supports the n n
roof in the native Indian and / TvilESnel / / SvErTgyVl /
Spanish colonial architecture of the It > F L>F
Southwest. a chiefly French poem having a short, usually slanting stroke or
At least one termite-infested viga typically five tercets and a quatrain. mark used in medieval
was responsible for the roof's One of the most striking aspects of manuscripts.
collapse. the villanelle is its rhyme scheme. In modern times a virgule is often
used to divide a date into month,
vigil vimineous day, and year.
n adj
/ SvijDl / / vDSminGEs / viridity
L L n
a religious service on the morning of or producing long slender twigs / vDSridEZG /
of the day before a holy day. or shoots. L
Deborah enjoyed the Christmas Ryan’s backyard is shaded by a the quality or state of being green :
Eve vigil as a respite from her huge vimineous willow tree. the color of grass or foliage.
hectic family life. Zoysia grass is known for its lack
vindaloo of viridity in cool months.
vigilant n
adj / SvindETlV / virility
/ SvijElEnt / Pg > Indo-Pg > Konkani
L a curried meat dish made with virtual
alertly or watchfully awake; garlic and wine or vinegar.
especially : alert or watchful to Sweet chutney is a delicious virulently
discover and avoid danger. counterpoint to spicy vindaloo. adv
The teachers on bus duty were not / Svir(y)ElEntlG /
very vigilant at their posts, vindictive L + Ecf
choosing instead to socialize with in a manner full of bitter malicious
each other. vintage hatred.
The campaign turned virulently
vigintillion hostile as the candidates exchanged
nasty personal insults.
Page 279 of 289

visceral vitellus vocalize
n v
viscid / vIStelEs / / SvPkETlIz /
adj L Gk > L > F > E
/ SvisDd / the yolk of egg. utter, speak, sing.
L In an egg, a ropelike structure Teresa had to relearn how to
having an adhesive quality : gluey, called a “chalaza” helps anchor vocalize some sounds while
sticky. the vitellus and protect it from recovering from a head injury.
Katie gazed in fascination at the damage while allowing it to turn
steaming vat of viscid sap, which easily. vocational
would soon be maple syrup.
viticetum voeu
vise n
n / TviZESsGZEm / voile
/ SvIs / L
F a growth or plantation of vines, volador
[has homonym: vice] any of especially grapevines. n
various tools having two jaws for Mr. Sampson owns the largest / TvPlESdO(E)r /
holding work that close usually by viticetum in the county. L > Sp
a screw, lever, or cam. [has near homonym: voladora] any
Keith put the copper bar in a vise viticulture of various flying fishes.
and hammered the end of it into the n Sammy was proud to have caught a
desired shape. / SviZETkElchE(r) / volador on his first day of fishing.
L
visible the cultivation of grapes. volary
Whitney has always been interested
Visigothic in viticulture; even as a child she volatilize
adj had two grapevines that she grew v
/ TvizESgBthik / herself. / SvBlEZFlTIz /
Gmc > L L>F>E
of or relating to the western vitrailed cause to pass off into vapor.
division of the Germanic peoples Sampson said it would be easy to
who invaded the Roman empire viuva volatilize the acid by heat.
beginning in the fourth century and
who later established kingdoms vivacious volcano
between the Loire and Gibraltar. adj n
Herve found several Visigothic / vDSvCshEs / / vBlSkC(T)nP /
artifacts while hiking in the L L
Pyrenees. lively in temper or conduct : a vent in Earth’s crust from which
sprightly. molten or hot rock and steam issue.
visualize The vivacious teenager thought Is that volcano in Hawaii still
v nothing of chatting for hours on the active?
/ SvizhETlIz / telephone. volley
L + E + Ecf v
see a mental image of. viviparous / SvBlG /
Arthur could still visualize the adj L>F
accident down to the smallest / vISvip(E)rEs / propel (an object of play) while in
detail. L the air and before touching the
producing living young instead of ground.
vitally eggs from within the body in the Cesar won his tennis match by
manner of nearly all mammals, staying close enough to the net to
many reptiles, and a few fishes. volley hard.
Some species of the eelpout lay
eggs, while others are viviparous. volleyball
vivisection voltage
vivisepulture voltolization
Page 280 of 289

voluble vouchsafe Wagnerian
adj
volucrine voussoir / vBgSnirGEn /
adj G name
/ SvBlyETkrIn / vowelless belonging to, characteristic of, or
L adj suggestive of the operas of the
of or relating to birds. / SvaU(E)llDs / German composer Richard
The adoption program at the zoo L > F > E + Ecf Wagner.
raised more money for the [Note: Could be confused with Star Trek Klingon opera is even
volucrine residents than for any foulest.] having only consonants. more somber than Wagnerian
other group of animals. Winifred amazed her friends by opera.
working a vowelless crossword
voluminous puzzle in less than an hour. wahine
adj
/ vESlVmEnEs / vulcanization wail
L
bulky, large, swelling. wafflestomper wailing
Sam’s chin sank into a billow of his n v
voluminous shirt front. / SwBfElTstBmpE(r) / / SwCliN /
D+E Scand > E
voluntary a hiking boot with a thick rubber expressing sorrow audibly.
sole with ridges patterned to The wailing cries of the relatives
volunteered increase traction. filled the cemetery.
v The typical wafflestomper has a
/ TvBlEnSti(E)rd / suede upper reaching to the ankle waistband
L>F and is lighter than many other
entered into or offered oneself for boots. waiter
any service of one’s own free will
without solicitation or compulsion : waft waitress
offered. v
Milo thought for just a moment and / SwBft / waiver
then resolutely volunteered to go. D or G > E n
bear along on or as if on a buoyant / SwCvE(r) /
voluptuous medium. F
As the aroma of coffee started to [has homonym: waver] the act of
volutation waft into the room, Mory woke up. intentionally relinquishing or
abandoning a known right, claim,
vorticity wafture or privilege.
n The attorney explained to her client
votary / SwBfchE(r) / how a waiver of a jury trial could
n D or G > E + Ecf be to his advantage.
/ SvPZErG / a wavelike motion : waft,
L beckoning. waldhorn
a devout or zealous worshiper. The wafture of the stadium crowd
It is said that there are eleven gave Ebenezer a thrill. walepiece
steps, or grades, that lead a Jainist
from householder to votary to waggery walkathon
monkhood. n
/ SwagErG / wallboard
votive E
adj mischievous merriment.
/ SvPZiv / The twins delighted in waggery.
L
undertaken or performed in
fulfillment of a vow.
This year Sue made her votive
pilgrimage to the estate of her
favorite performer.
Page 281 of 289

walleye warrant waterspout
n n n
/ SwOTlI / / SwOrEnt / / SwOZErTspaUt /
ON > E Gmc > F > E E+E
a large vigorous freshwater food a writ issued by a magistrate a slender funnel-shaped or tubular
and sport fish that has large authorizing an officer to make an column of rapidly rotating cloud-
prominent eyes. arrest, a seizure, or a search or to filled wind on the surface of an
The walleye put up a good fight but do other acts incident to the ocean or lake.
nevertheless ended up as dinner for administration of justice. The photograph is an aerial view of
the fisherman. Police officers, armed with a a waterspout about 2000 feet high.
search warrant, entered the
wallow suspect’s apartment and seized the waterwheel
stolen computers. n
walnut / SwOZE(r)ThwGl /
warrantee E+E
wane a hubbed circular frame mounted
v warranty vertically on an axle and made to
/ SwCn / n rotate by direct action of a liquid.
E / SwOrEntG / The gristmill operator opened the
[has homonym: wain] diminish in F>E gate in the sluice, and the
phase or intensity—used of the [has homonym: warrantee] a waterwheel creaked and groaned
Moon and other satellites and usually written guarantee of the as it began to turn.
inferior planets. integrity of a product specifying
Mercury will begin to wane on that the maker will for a period of waterzooi
June 23rd. time be responsible for the repair or n
replacement of defective parts. / SwOZErTzVG /
wantwit Celeste angrily waved the warranty D > Flem
for her refrigerator under the a stew of chicken or seafood and
wapentake repairman’s nose. vegetables in a seasoned stock
thickened with cream and egg
warble wary yolks.
adj Glen ordered the waterzooi simply
warbler / Swa(a)rG / because it was the most unusual
E item on the menu.
wardwite marked by keen caution, cunning,
and watchful prudence in detecting watteau
ware and escaping danger. n
The negotiator’s subtle diplomacy / wBStP /
warily and wary tactics were the result of F name
adv years of experience. [Note: Plural form is pronounced
/ Swa(a)rDlG / identically.] a hat having a shallow
E washin crown and a wide brim turned up at
cautiously. the back to hold flower trimmings.
The toddler approached the puppy waspish Betty celebrated the coming of
warily. spring by wearing her straw
wassail watteau delicately decorated with
warlock pink and red roses.
n wassailry
/ SwOrTlBk /
E waterbailage
one given to black magic.
The warlock shrieked in rage as the waterfowl
paladin shattered his amulet.
Page 282 of 289

watts Wednesday whammy
n pl n
/ SwBts / / Swenz(T)dC / wheelchair
Scot name E
[has homonym: what’s] absolute the day following Tuesday. wheeze
meter-kilogram-second units of Most schoolchildren look forward
power, each equal to 1 absolute to Wednesday as the day when the wheezed
joule per second : units of power school week is half over. v
1/746 horsepower each. / ShwGzd /
Tom’s smile was so bright that weighbridge Scand > E
photographers began to call it the breathed with difficulty with a
“smile of a thousand watts.” weighhouse usually audible sibilant or whistling
wavelet sound.
weight “Too much too quickly, too much
waviness too quickly,” wheezed the out-of-
weimaraner shape gentleman, between gulps.
waybill n
/ SvImETrBnE(r) / whelked
waywiser G geog name adj
a German breed of large gray, / Shwelkt /
weakling short-haired sporting dogs with E
pendulous ears and cropped tail. formed like the twisted shell of
wealthy The trembling and excessive numerous marine mollusks :
shyness of the weimaraner may be convoluted.
weapon signs of overbreeding. The antelope had whelked horns
that curved inward.
weaponry wejack
whencesoever
wear weka
whereas
weatherize Wellington
n whereupon
Websterian / SweliNtEn /
adj Brit name whether
/ webzStirGEn / a leather boot having a loose top conj
American name with the front usually coming / S(h)weLE(r) /
of, relating to, or characteristic of above the knee. E
the lexicographer Noah Webster or The Wellington was introduced into [has homonyms: weather,
his dictionary. the British army by the Duke of wether]—used as a function word
Jack’s Websterian skill at defining Wellington to replace the jackboot. followed usually by correlative or
and familiarity with word origins or by or whether to indicate
made him an ideal editor. weltpolitik alternative conditions or
possibilities.
wedel wentletrap Jill cannot decide whether or not
v she would like to go to the prom.
/ SvCdFl / westerlies
G n pl whew
[has near homonym: fatal] ski / SwestE(r)lGz /
downhill by moving the rear of the E whey
skis from side to side making a winds blowing from the west.
series of short quick turns while Groves of tall trees had been wheyey
following the fall line. planted to comb the meanness out
The ski instructor watched as of California’s prevailing whichever
Ursula began to wedel confidently westerlies.
down the steep slope. whiffet
westward
whiffle
whally
while
Page 283 of 289

whinchat wicket wiles
n n pl
whinny / SwikDt / / SwIlz /
Gmc > F > E E
whirlpool [has near homonym: wicked] the [has homonym: whiles] tricks or
period of play in cricket from the stratagems intended to ensnare or
whiskery commencement of a batter’s deceive.
innings to his or her dismissal. George Washington believed that
whiteout Edward scored five runs during the nations must ultimately depend on
n fourth wicket of the Eton themselves alone and warned
/ ShwItTaUt / championship. against “the insidious wiles of
E+E foreign influence.”
a surface weather condition in an widespread wiliness
arctic area in which no object casts adj
a shadow, the horizon cannot be / SwIdTspred / wiliwili
seen, and only dark objects are E
discernible. generally prevalent. willet
When the blizzard thickened to a The widespread Dutch Elm Disease n
whiteout, motorists pulled off the has all but eliminated the old elm / SwilDt /
road and waited until visibility trees in our town. imit
returned. a large shore bird of the snipe
wield family of the eastern and Gulf
whitewashed coasts and the central parts of
v wienerwurst North America.
/ ShwItTwOsht / n The willet feeds near the mud flats
E / SwGnE(r)TwErst / in the summer.
washed, treated, or covered with a G
white liquid composition. Vienna sausage. willies
Breanna and Logan whitewashed Blaine decided that it was the
the fence together. wienerwurst, not the 14 pickles, willow
that had caused his indigestion.
whitherward willowware
wiesenboden
whitster n wimble
/ SvGzFnTbPdFn /
whittle G winced
any of an intrazonal group of dark v
wholehearted brown to black meadow soils rich / Swin(t)st /
in organic matter. Gmc > F > E
wholly The sedge grass thrived in the shrank back involuntarily.
wiesenboden. Waldo winced at the Sun’s glare.
whorl
wigan winceyette
whosoever
wigwam windblown
whump
wilco
wickawee
wildfowl
wickedness
wile
Page 284 of 289

windchill witching woodsy
n adj adj
/ SwindTchil / / SwichiN / / SwUdzG /
E+E E E
a still-air temperature with the of, relating to, or suitable for of, relating to, characteristic of,
same cooling effect on exposed sorcery or supernatural suggestive of, or of the nature of
human flesh as a given occurrences. woods.
combination of temperature and Tension grew as the clock neared The Girl Scout Handbook tells us to
wind speed. the witching hour of midnight. “look for trillium and violets in
Winds ripped the air at 60 miles an woodsy, shady spots.”
hour, and the windchill dropped to withdrawal woold
50 degrees below zero.
withhold woolliness
winddog
withholding wootz
windlass
witticize wordle
windowpane
wizard workaholic
wingspan n n
/ SwizE(r)d / / TwErkEShOlik /
winnable E E + Ar > Sp > L + Ecf
adj magician. a compulsive worker.
/ SwinEbEl / The wizard vowed to use his Beth is a workaholic who hasn’t
E powers to help the townspeople. taken a vacation in over six years.
able to be won.
The coach knew that the game was wizened worrywart
winnable, but he watched his team
throw it away. wizzled worship
v
winnow woad / SwErshDp /
v n E
/ Swi(T)nP / / SwPd / honor or reverence as a divine
E E being or supernatural power :
treat so that the result is free of a blue dye prepared especially venerate.
unwanted or baser components. formerly from the leaves of a plant Joe found a Web page for people
The superintendent spent all day of the same name and containing who worship Athena, the ancient
trying to winnow the immense indigo as its essential constituent. Greek goddess of wisdom.
number of applications for director The ancient Picts of England were
of special education. known to use woad to make body worsted
paint. n
wistful / SwErstDd /
adj wokas E geog name
/ SwistfEl / any of various closely woven
E wolfsbane fabrics made from smooth yarn
full of timorous longing or spun from long combed fibers, used
unfulfilled desire : melancholy. wombat especially for suits and tailored
Glenn grew wistful as he n garments.
reminisced about his boyhood / SwBmTbat / The salesman brought out a jacket
friends. Australian name made from woolen worsted for
any of several stocky Australian Brandon to try on.
witan marsupials resembling small bears.
The wombat lives in burrows, worthwhile
witchcraft which it digs with its strong
foreclaws.
wonderful
woodburytype
Page 285 of 289

wounded writhed xenophobic
adj v adj
/ SwVndDd / / SrILd / / TzenESfPbik /
E E Gk + Gk
injured, hurt by, or suffering from moved or proceeded with twists of, relating to, or characterized by
an injury to the body consisting of and turns. fear and hatred of what is foreign
a laceration or a breaking of the A banner writhed in the wind as the and especially of people of foreign
skin. storm approached. origin.
Tommy nursed his wounded arm Roger’s xenophobic personality
carefully. writhen made him unfit for the Peace
Corps.
wrangle wrote
v xeroderma
/ SraNgEl / wrought
E xerophobous
engage in argument, dispute, or wry adj
controversy. / zDSrBfEbEs /
No matter what the topic is, the wryly Gk + Gk
MacNeil brothers all love to having little capacity to resist
wrangle. wryneck drought—used of a plant.
Knowing how forgetful she can be,
wrathful wrytail Rachel avoided buying any
xerophobous plants.
wreck Xanadu
n xerophyte
wrench / SzanETdV /
v E poetic name xiphoid
/ Srench / an idyllic, exotic, or luxurious adj
E place. / SzITfOid /
twist violently to one side or out of Kerry told her friends that Bali was Gk
line, shape, or position. just the Xanadu she had hoped for. shaped like a sword.
The sudden noise caused Merl to “The sword plant is so named for
wrench his head around. xanthomelanous its xiphoid leaves,” Simon told the
botany students.
wrenched xanthophyll
xoanon
wresting xanthosis
xylary
wrestling xenial
adj xylographer
wrinkly / SzGnGEl / n
Gk + Ecf / zISlBgrEfE(r) /
wristband of, relating to, or constituting Gk + Gk
hospitality or relations between one that practices or is skilled in
writ host and guest and especially artistic wood carving.
n among the ancient Greeks between The Chinese xylographer exhibited
/ Srit / persons of different cities. printings of Buddhist scripture that
E Gene is good at all the xenial he had made from woodcuts.
a written order held to constitute a niceties, offering his guests food
symbol of the power and authority and rest as soon as they arrive. xyloid
of the issuer. adj
President Kennedy pledged to xenomania / SzITlOid /
support the United Nations and to Gk
“enlarge the area in which its writ xenon having the qualities or nature of
may run.” wood.
Twigs and xyloid plants were used
for toothbrushes many years ago.
Page 286 of 289

xylology yawmeter zanily
n n
/ zISlBlEjG / / SyOTmGZE(r) / zaniness
Gk + Gk unknown + Gk
a branch of dendrology dealing an instrument for measuring the zany
with the gross and the minute angle of yaw of an airplane.
structure of wood. The pilot was sure her yawmeter zanyism
In xylology, students learn to was malfunctioning.
identify different woods and to zarzuela
distinguish real wood from yaws n
imitations. / zBrzSwClE /
yeanling Sp
yacca a Spanish opera having spoken
yearling dialogue and usually a comic
yakitori n subject.
n / Syi(E)rliN / Linda and Jaime attended an
/ TyBkiStOrG / E amusing zarzuela on their trip to
Jpn one that is a year old; especially : Barcelona.
bite-sized marinated pieces of an animal one year old or in the
chicken, beef, or seafood grilled on second year of its age. zealless
small bamboo skewers. Although its small size made Ken
Mrs. Saito brought an appetizer of think the rabbit was a yearling, it zealotry
chicken yakitori to the Japanese was actually closer to three years n
class’s end-of-year banquet. old. / SzelEtrG /
Gk
yamen yearnful fanatical devotion.
Terrorists typically justify their
yardang yearning violence as acts of zealotry.
n
/ SyBrTdBN / yellow zebraic
Turkish
a sharp-crested ridge carved by yelp zebroid
wind erosion.
A yardang marked the boundary Yiddishkeit zebu
between the sand dunes and the n n
surrounding hillside. / SyidishTkIt / / SzGTbyV /
G Tibetan > F
yardarm Jewish way of life. an Asiatic ox marked by a hump
n Rabbi Cohen answered questions behind the neck and used primarily
/ SyBrdTBrm / from the Hebrew school pupils for draft or riding.
E+E about the fundamental values of Yasmin used to ride on her family’s
either end of a long spar set Yiddishkeit. zebu when she was small, but now
perpendicularly on a mast to she milks it every morning instead.
support and spread a square sail. yieldable
The custom of the Royal Navy is to zeitgeist
fly the Union Jack from the yielding n
yardarm when a court martial is / StsItTgIst /
taking place aboard. yippee G
the spirit of the time : the general
yardbird yogism intellectual and moral state or the
trend of culture and taste
yardstick yoke characteristic of an era.
The fact that speed is part of our
yarmouth yolk zeitgeist is one explanation for the
popularity of e-mail.
youthful
zelkova
yperite
zephyrous
Page 287 of 289

zero ziti zoology
n n
zerography / SzGZG / / zPSBlEjG /
It Gk
zest medium-sized tubular pasta. a branch of the science of life
The waiter announced that concerned with the animal kingdom
zetetic Tuesday’s special was ziti in and its members.
adj tomato sauce with eggplant and It is surprising that Gretchen, an
/ zDSteZik / mushrooms. animal lover, dreads her studies in
Gk zoology.
proceeding by inquiry. zocalo
The class government has its own zoom
zetetic justice system. zoic
zoomorphic
zigzag zoism adj
n / TzPESmOrfik /
zigzagged / SzPTizEm / Gk > L
Gk having an animal form that often
zigzaggedly belief in animal powers and conforms to a style of expression
influences. that is extreme in character, not
zigzaggery Many Native American tribes true to the appearance of nature.
n practice zoism. The Mayan ruins included altars
/ SzigTzagErG / carved with zoomorphic figures.
G>F Zolaesque
a course having sharp turns or adj zoophagous
angles. / TzPlESesk /
The zigzaggery of the stitches is an F name zori
attractive feature of the afghan. of, relating to, or suggestive of n
Emile Zola or his writings. / SzPrG /
zilch The editor accepted two of Sophie’s Jpn
n short stories for publication in the a flat thonged sandal usually made
/ Szilch / literary magazine, declaring them of straw, cloth, leather, or rubber.
unknown Zolaesque. While running on the pier, Terry
zero, nil. caught his zori between two planks
Eliza told Kevin that the chance of zombiism and pulled out the thong.
his becoming her sweetheart was
zilch. zonation zouave
zillionaire zonda zumbooruk

n n n
/ SzilyETna(a)(E)r / / SzPndE / / zEmSbVTrEk /
E > L > It > F Sp Per > Ar
one whose wealth is of unspecified a hot enervating north wind that a small cannon mounted on a
millions (as of dollars, pounds, or sweeps down from the Andes over swivel; especially : one fired from a
francs). the Argentine pampas. rest on the back of a camel.
Nancy wants to start a software The zonda brings hot spells of The desert nomads were proud of
company and be a zillionaire, just many days’ duration when their marksmanship with the
like Bill Gates. temperatures can exceed 100 zumbooruk.
degrees.
zinc zwinger
zoogenic n
zincography / StsfiNE(r) /
G
zinfandel a fortress protecting a city.
The assailing army was unable to
zinnia breach the zwinger.
zirconium zygodactylous
Page 288 of 289

zygoneure
zymoscope
n
/ SzImETskPp /
Gk > ISV
an apparatus for determining the
fermenting power of yeast by
measuring the amount of carbon
dioxide evolved from a given
quantity of sugar.
The brewer used a zymoscope to
assess the yeast varieties.
zymosis
zymurgy
n
/ SzITmErjG /
Gk
a branch of applied chemistry that
deals with fermentation processes.
The chemist had performed many
experiments in zymurgy before
taking the job at the brewery.
zythum
Page 289 of 289

2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Infrequently
abacist abrader abuzz
aback abrash academese
abash abridge acalculia
abatable abridged acanthosis
abate abrotine accelerometer
abatement abruption acceptant

n
/ ESbCtmEnt / abscise accessibility
L>F
the act or process of reducing in absent accessioned
degree or intensity. adj
The city council passed a law / SabsEnt / accessit
allowing periodic bans on the L>F>E
burning of wood, paving the way not existing in a place. accessorized
for further pollution abatement. Zebra mussels were at one time
totally absent from the Great accessory
abbey Lakes.
accidence
abdication absentee
accident
abduct absolution
n acclimate
abeam / TabsESlVshEn /
L acclimatize
abhorrently a rite, ceremony, or form of words
in which a remission of sins is accommodating
abient pronounced, proclaimed, or adj
prayerfully implored by a priest or / ESkBmETdCZiN /
abigail minister. L + Ecf
Father O’Malley performed the rite disposed to be helpful or obliging.
abiogenic of absolution on behalf of the thief The accommodating chef prepared
adj who had just made his confession. the dish exactly as the diner asked.
/ TCTbIPSjenik /
Gk + Gk + Gk absonant accommodations
not produced by the action of living
organisms. absorb accomplished
Randy explained to the group that
rock formations are completely abstinent accomplishment
abiogenic.
abstractum accountable
abjure n
/ abzStraktEm / accountancy
abode L
an entity considered apart from any accounting
abolitionary particular object or specific
instance. accouplement
aboriginally Virtue is an abstractum.
accrete
aborigines abusage
accumulation
aboveboard abusing
accustom
abradant abut
Page 1 of 153
ace acromegaly adhesion
v n n
/ SCs / / TakrPSmegElG / / adShGzhEn /
L>F>E Gk + Gk L
make (a hole in golf) in one stroke. a chronic disease of adult life that the molecular attraction exerted
The golfer knew that he must ace is characterized by a gradual and between the surfaces of bodies in
the hole if he wanted to have a permanent enlargement of the flat contact.
chance at the championship. bones (as the lower jaw) and of the Water in a glass container is pulled
hands and feet, abdominal organs, upward by adhesion where its
acephalous nose, lips, and tongue. upper surface contacts the glass,
The circus giant was obviously which results in the formation of a
acequia afflicted with acromegaly. meniscus.
acervation actinide adhocracy

n
aces / SaktETnId / adit
ISV
acetous a chemical element of the series of adjoin
heavy radioactive metallic elements
achroite of increasing atomic number adjoining
considered to begin with actinium adj
acicula or thorium and end with / ESjOiniN /
lawrencium. L>F>E
acidic Timmy won the contest by correctly touching or bounding at some point
identifying plutonium as an or on some line.
acierage actinide. The Sampson family plans to build
a summer home on the two
acotyledonous actionable adjoining lake lots they recently
purchased.
acquisition actress
n adjutancy
/ TakwESzishEn / actually
L adman
the act or action of obtaining. adapt
The principal stated that the admass
students’ main goal should be the adapted
acquisition of knowledge. administrative
addenda
acquisitive administrator
addition
acquit admiration
additory
acquittance admonition
addressable
acrobatics adobo
adept n
acrolith / ESdPbP /
adequacy Gmc > F > Sp
acromegalic a dish of Spanish origin consisting
of meat (as chicken or pork)
marinated in a spicy sauce,
browned, and then simmered in the
marinade.
Annmarie’s favorite dish at the
restaurant is the chicken adobo.
Page 2 of 153
adonize adulate aeronautic
v adj
/ SadFnTIz / adulatory / TarESnOZik /
Gk name Gk > L
beautify—usually used of a man. adulterate of or relating to the science that
Gram assured Grandpa that he deals with the operation of aircraft.
needed nothing to adonize himself. adulthood The United States and Russia have
been cooperating in aeronautic
adoptee advanced research.
adorned advantage aeronomy

v
/ ESdO(E)rnd / advertent aerosolize
L>F>E
decorated : added to the advertise aerosols
pleasantness, attractiveness,
splendor, or beauty of. advice aerotrain
His shoes were polished, his nails
were clean, his hat was well adynamic Aesir
brushed, and a white handkerchief n pl
adorned his breast pocket. aerate / Sasir /
ON
adrenal aerated the chief gods of pagan
adj Scandinavia.
/ ESdrGnFl / aeriferous Although the Norse Aesir aged like
L mortal beings, they could become
adjacent to the kidneys; specifically aerobicize young again by eating magic fruit.
: relating to or derived from
endocrine glands located near the aerobics Aesopian
kidneys. adj
Janna formed a support group for aerodromics / GSsPpGEn /
people who have Addison’s n pl Gk name
disease, Cushing’s syndrome, and / Ta(E)rESdrBmiks / conveying an innocent meaning to
other adrenal diseases. Gk an outsider but a concealed
the science or art of flying aircraft. meaning to an informed member of
adret Jim watched a video about the a conspiracy or underground
Wright brothers on the first day of movement.
adroitly his course in aerodromics. Fearful that the inmates would use
adv Aesopian language in their
/ ESdrOitTlG / aerolithology communication, the warden placed
F + Ecf n each of them in solitary
in a manner that is dexterous in the / Ta(E)rE(T)liSthBlEjH / confinement.
use of the hands. Gk + Gk + Gk
The magician adroitly pulled a the science that deals with afar
silver dollar out of Mort’s right meteorites.
ear. Experts in aerolithology were affection
elated when five more meteorites n
adscription from Mars were found in early / ESfekshEn /
n 2002. L
/ adzSkripshEn / kind feeling : tender attachment.
L aerometer A deep bond of affection soon
[Note: Could be confused with n developed between the boy and his
ascription.] the quality or state of / a(E)SrBmEZE(r) / dog.
being added, annexed, or bound. Gk > F
The adscription of the colony to the an instrument for ascertaining the affettuoso
empire was protested by the native weight or density of air or other
residents. gases. affiance
Stanley calibrated the old
aerometer in his lab. affinal
Page 3 of 153
agisting aition
affluent n
n agitate / SIZGTBn /
/ SaTflVEnt / Gk
L agnolotti [has near homonyms: Idaean,
[Note: The definition provided is Idean, idaein, idein] a narrative
not the one most commonly agnostically devised to explain the origin of a
associated with this word. Also, religious observance.
word could be confused with agnosticism One familiar example of an aition
effluent.] a stream or river flowing is the story of Passover.
into a larger river or into a lake : a agog
tributary stream. akaryote
The affluent responsible for the agon
lake’s pollution is the creek that akinesia
runs beside the packing plant. agonistically
albarium
afflux agonizing
alburnum
afford agony
alcarraza
affray agree
alder
affright agribusiness
n alderman
affront / SagrDTbiznDs /
L+E alee
aflutter a combination of the producing
operations of a farm, the alewife
afterburner manufacture and distribution of
farm equipment and supplies, and alexandrite
aftercare the processing, storage, and
distribution of farm commodities. alexia
afternoon Agribusiness in Great Britain was
profoundly affected by the foot- algae
afterwards and-mouth epidemic of 2001.
algebra
agamy agriotype n
/ SaljEbrE /
agave aguish Ar > L
a branch of mathematics in which
agelong ahead arithmetic relations are generalized
and explored by using letter
aggraded ailment symbols to represent numbers,
v variable quantities, or other
/ ESgrCdDd / airbrush mathematical entities.
L The guidance counselor
filled with loose material that airbus encouraged George to wait one
results directly from rock more year before taking algebra to
disintegration or abrasion. airfoil fulfill his math requirement.
Silt had aggraded the river bed for
at least a hundred miles. airframe algesia
aggression airport algetic
aggrieve airtight algid
aggrievement aisle
agio aisling
Page 4 of 153
alias allergenic almuerzo
n adj
/ SClGEs / / TalE(r)Sjenik / aloft
L Gk > G adv
an assumed name. of or relating to a substance that / ESlOft /
To avoid publicity the movie star produces an exaggerated or ON > E
used an alias when registering at pathological reaction marked by high up into the air.
the hotel. sneezing, respiratory Mike’s kite went aloft with ease on
embarrassment, itching, and skin the windy afternoon.
aliquant rashes.
Eating too many tomatoes caused alogism
alison Horace’s allergenic reaction.
n aloisiite
/ SalEsEn / alleviant
common name > E alongside
[Note: Could be confused with allocution
alyssum.] a plant of a genus of alopecoid
European and Asiatic herbs having allotropic
small usually yellow flowers. adj alphabetize
Bernice added an alison to her / TalEStrBpik /
bouquet. Gk > ISV alphagram
aliunde allotrophic.] of, relating to, or althorn
exhibiting the phenomenon of the
alkalescence existence of a substance in two or although
more different modifications.
alkaline Diamonds and graphite are two altiplanation
adj native allotropic forms of carbon.
/ SalkElDn / altruistic
Ar > L > E + Ecf allotropy
of, relating to, or having the aluminiferous
properties of a substance having allowable
marked basic properties; especially amah
: relating to a hydroxide or alloy
carbonate of an alkali metal (as n amass
sodium or potassium). / SaTlOi / v
Having identified the mystery F / ESmas /
substance as alkaline, Olympia a substance composed of two or L > F + Gk > L > F
proceeded to the next lab exercise. more metals intimately mixed and collect into a mass : bring together.
united usually by being fused Laura accused her little brother of
alkane together and dissolving in each trying to amass a collection of
n other when molten. spiders and snakes just to annoy
/ SalTkCn / Brass is an alloy of copper and her.
ISV zinc.
any of a series of saturated amberjack
hydrocarbons derived from fat (as almandite
methane). ameliorant
Methane is the simplest alkane and Almighty
is a major by-product of the termite n ameliorative
digestive system. / OlSmIZG /
E amercing
alleged God.
The congregation decided they American
allegedly needed only a simple one-room
building in order to worship the americium
allegorize Almighty with appropriate humility.
almonds
Page 5 of 153
amine anaphylactic animation
n n
/ ESmGn / anarchism / TanESmCshEn /
ISV L
any of a class of basic compounds anchusa a series of drawings each of which
derived from ammonia by shows a successive position of a
replacement of hydrogen by one or androcracy figure or other object, the drawings
more univalent hydrocarbon being on film so the projection of
radicals or other nonacidic organic anecdotal the film produces a picture in
radicals. which the objects drawn seem to
Aniline, the simplest aromatic anemosis move in a lifelike and realistic
amine, is a toxic compound used in manner.
dyes. anenterous The history class viewed an
animation depicting how the
amitious angary pyramids were probably
constructed.
ammoniac angels
adj n pl animism
/ ESmPnGTak / / SCnjElz / n
Gk > L > E Gk > L > F > E / SanETmizEm /
containing or having the properties supernatural spirits commonly L
of a colorless gaseous alkaline depicted as being winged and attribution of conscious life and a
compound of nitrogen and serving as God’s messengers and discrete indwelling spirit to every
hydrogen. divine intermediaries and as special material form of reality, often
Gigi never could stand the guardians of an individual or including belief in the continued
ammoniac odor when she washed nation. existence of individual
windows. Thomas Jefferson believed that disembodied spirits.
man had found no angels in the Voodoo as practiced in Haiti is a
amperage forms of kings to govern him. combination of animism and
Roman Catholic ritual, in which a
ampersand angling supreme god rules a large group of
lesser spirits.
amphetamine angular
animosity
amphetamines anhydrous
adj anionic
amphicrania / SanThIdrEs / adj
Gk / SaTnITBnik /
amphoric destitute of water. Gk
Sodium carbonate is an anhydrous relating to or consisting of
amphoteric salt that is used in making soap, negatively charged atoms or groups
adj soap powders, glass, and paper. of atoms.
/ TamfESterik / By gaining an electron, a chlorine
Gk > ISV anility atom becomes anionic.
capable of reacting chemically
either as a base or as an acid. animal ankle
Ysadora determined that aluminum
oxide is amphoteric because it animalcule anlace
reacted with hydrochloric acid and
sodium hydroxide, a base. annex
ampliative annihilation
amygdala annotate
analytically announce
anaphoric annulment
Page 6 of 153
anorexia anzac applaudable
anosmatic aorta applicable
antacid aortography apply

n
/ TantSasDd / aphagia appoint
L+L v
[Note: Could be confused with aphonic / ESpOint /
antiacid.] an agent that counteracts L>F>E
or neutralizes acidity. aphoristic assign, designate, or set apart by
For some reason, the voice on authority.
television saying “A major function aphotic The prom committee’s chairman
of an antacid is to neutralize failed to appoint a cleanup crew.
hydrochloric acid in gastric juice” apiarist
kept running through Lorraine’s appraiser
mind. apocynthion n
/ ESprCzE(r) /
Antaean apogonid F>E
adj one that sets a value on property.
/ anStGEn / apograph The appraiser set the value of
Gk name Tim’s piano at $1200.
possessed of superhuman strength apojove
with suggestions of human appreciative
qualities. apologia adj
Marc cannot decide whether / ESprGshEZiv /
Superman or Wonder Woman is his apologist L
favorite Antaean figure. having or showing an expression of
aporematic gratitude.
ante The appreciative guest sent a
n appeal thank-you note to her host.
/ SantG / n
L / ESpGl / approach
[has homonyms: anti, auntie, L>F>E
aunty] a poker stake usually an application or reference (as to a approbatory
arbitrarily fixed and usually put up recognized authority) for
before the deal to build the pot. corroboration, vindication, or April
Each player in the lunchtime poker decision. n
game put a nickel on the table as Janice’s appeal to reason swayed / SCprEl /
an ante. even her most emotional Etruscan? > L
opponents. the fourth month of the Gregorian
antepirrhema calendar.
appear Afternoon showers occur frequently
anticipatory in many states during the month of
appertain April.
antihypertensive v
/ TapE(r)StCn / aptitude
antipyretic L>F>E
belong either as something aquacade
antiquing appropriate or as a part, possession,
right, or attribute.
antisocially Puerto Rico is one of several
islands that appertain to the United
antler States.
antrorse appetible
anythingarian applaud
Page 7 of 153
aqueous are army
adj n n
/ SCkwGEs / / Sa(a)(E)r / / SBrmG /
L L>F L>F>E
made from, with, or by means of [has homonym: air] a metric unit a great number : vast multitude.
water. of area equal to the area of a square Lance joked that his mom had
Pat set up the lab for the next 10 meters long on each side : 100 bought enough snacks to feed an
experiment, which dealt with square meters. army of guests.
electrolysis of an aqueous solution The new office has floor space of
of sodium chloride. almost 1 are. aromatize
arachnean argon arouse
arachnoid argument arpent

adj n n
/ ESrakTnOid / / SBrgyEmEnt / / SBrpEnt /
Gk > L L Gaulish > L > F
of, relating to, or characterizing a an act or process of contending or a unit of land area still used in
large class of arthropods including disagreeing in words : disputation. certain French sections of Canada
scorpions, spiders, mites, and Patrick Henry’s famous and the United States equal to
related forms. impassioned speech focused on about 0.85 acre.
Celia noted several arachnoid how ten years of argument with Henri started his farm on less than
features on the bug she found in England had been in vain. 1 arpent of land.
her sandbox.
argumentation arrangement
aralia
argute array
arbitrage
aria arrest
arbitrarily
ark arrestee
arbitrational n
armada / TaTreSstG /
arboreally n L>F>E
/ BrSmBdE / one who is under arrest.
arborescent L > Sp The arrestee demanded to see his
a fleet of warships. lawyer before answering any
arcanist Harry referred to his collection of questions.
model warships as his “armada.”
arcature armor arrhostia
n
arch / SBrmEr / arride
L
archangelic the usually metal defensive arrondissement
covering worn in combat in the
archduke medieval period. artemisia
Martin could not understand how a
archetypal medieval knight could mount a arthropod
horse while wearing a suit of
arcosolium armor.
armorer
Page 8 of 153
Arthurian aspic assize
adj n n
/ BrSthUrGEn / / Saspik / / ESsIz /
E name F L>F>E
of, relating to, or characteristic of a savory jelly made from fish or a statute or ordinance regulating
the legends or romances built meat stock thickened with gelatin weights and measures or the
around King Arthur and his and seasoned and used cold to weight, measure, proportions of
knights. garnish meat or fish or to make a ingredients, or price of articles sold
The quest for the Holy Grail is mold of meat, fish, or vegetables. in the market.
Greg’s favorite part of Arthurian Ella’s main course was garnished Predna’s silver jewelry was
legend. with aspic cut into heart shapes. produced in strict accordance with
the local assize.
articulable aspirate
assuasive
artificed assassination adj
n / ESswCsiv /
artistic / ETsasFnSCshEn / L
Ar > L having a pleasantly soothing
aryl act of murdering (a usually quality or effect : calming.
n prominent person) violently. The background music in the
/ SarDl / Theodore Roosevelt assumed the dentist’s office did not have an
G? > ISV presidency following the assuasive effect on Stella.
a univalent aromatic radical (as assassination of President William
phenyl or tolyl) derived from an McKinley. assurance
arene by removal of one hydrogen
atom from a carbon atom of the assay asteria
nucleus.
Natty wrote down that any member assessor astern
of a group that contains one or
more fused benzene rings is an asseverate astichous
aryl, but he remained confused
about the concept. assibilate astral
adj
ascensor assiduous / SastrEl /
Gk
ascham assiette of or relating to the stars.
The story of Juno and the baby
aseity assignment Hercules is an astral myth about
n the origin of the Milky Way.
aseptic / ESsInmEnt /
L>F astride
ashen a specified amount of work or a adv
definite task or mission prescribed / ESstrId /
ashtray by authority or undertaken as E+E
though so prescribed. with one leg on each side.
asiago Several students complained about Frieda set her son John astride the
the assignment that was due the pony.
aside day after spring break.
astringency
asperity assistance
astrocytoma
Page 9 of 153
astrologer audiophile Aztec
n n
/ ESstrBlEjE(r) / auge / SazTtek /
Gk > L > F Nahuatl > Sp
one that practices divination that Augean a Nahuatl people that founded the
treats of the supposed influences of adj Mexican empire conquered by
stars upon human affairs and of / OSjGEn / Cortez in 1519.
foretelling terrestrial events by their Gk name The shimmering golden mask was a
positions and aspects. extremely difficult and usually very superb example of the art of the
Nancy Reagan consulted an distasteful. Aztec.
astrologer before setting up the Cleaning the rat-infested shed was
president’s daily schedule. an Augean task indeed. azurean
astrology augend azurite
astute aurification babbled
asymmetrical auscultatory babel
atavism auslaut Babelization

n
atherosclerosis auspex / TbCbElDSzCshEn /
Assyr-Bab > Bible name
athwart auteurism the process of confusing through
the mingling of markedly different
Atlas authority languages and cultures.
n The Babelization of speech in the
/ SatlEs / autogenous big city made it difficult for the
Gk name adj visitors to get the information they
one who bears a heavy burden : / OStBjEnEs / needed.
chief supporter : mainstay. Gk
Without Dr. Cunningham as the of origin within or from oneself. baboonery
Atlas of the conservation project, Mrs. Griffin received an
support gradually waned. autogenous transplant in which babracot
some of her own bone marrow was
atmospherium extracted, cleansed of leukemia bacciform
cells, and then reinjected.
atomize baccivorous
automaton
atrociously bacilliform
avail
attack bacillosis
aviation
attentat n backblast
/ TCvGSCshEn /
attic L backboard
aircraft manufacture, development,
attune and design. backdrop
The sophisticated safety measures
attuned in modern aviation make air travel background
v safer than road travel. n
/ EStVnd / / SbakTgraUnd /
L+L>E award E+E
brought into harmony or accord. a position away from that which
The horse demonstrated that it was aweigh holds the center of attention.
attuned to its rider’s desires. Darby’s parents stayed in the
awning background during her party.
aubergine
Page 10 of 153
backhoe baku ballroom
n n n
/ SbakThP / / SbB(T)kV / / SbOlTrVm /
E+E Philippine name Gk > L > F > E
an excavating machine in which the a hat made of a fine lightweight a large room for dances.
bucket is rigidly attached to a straw made of fibers from the Karin’s birthday party was held in
hinged stick on the boom and is talipot palm. the ballroom of the Plaza Hotel.
drawn toward the machine in Tony was wearing a baku as he got
operation. off the airplane after his trip to the ballyhoo
Slim manned the backhoe while Jed Philippines.
directed him from the ground. ballyhooed
balata v
backlash / SbalGThVd /
balconied unknown
backpack drummed up interest in by means
baldmoney of exaggerated, flamboyant
backspin n publicity.
n / SbOldTmEnG / Every mile or two along the
/ SbakTspin / E highway there were large signs that
E any of several plants of the genus ballyhooed the popular amusement
a backward rotary motion imparted Gentiana. park.
especially to a ball that causes the The baldmoney likes the sun but
ball on touching the ground or doesn’t thrive in rich soil. balm
some other surface to recoil, n
bounce backward, stop dead, or roll balintawak / SbBm /
forward only a short distance. Gk > L > F > E
Tommy used backspin to position balisaur a spicy odor.
the cue ball for the next shot. The garden sent out radiance and
balistraria balm into the air.
bacteriolysin
balkline balmacaan
baculus n
ballabile / TbalmESkan /
badge n Scot geog name
/ bBSlBbETlC / a loose boxy overcoat made of
badly It rough wool and with raglan
adv a dance in classic ballet performed sleeves, a short turnover collar, and
/ SbadlG / by the corps de ballet by itself or a closing that may be buttoned to
E with the principal dancers. the throat.
poorly, faultily, defectively. The ballet ended with a ballabile As Sherlock Holmes crossed the
Roscoe says his car runs badly but that included many young dance moors, Dr. Watson followed
will make it to Cicero. students. closely, wrapped in a warm
balmacaan.
bagasse balladmongering
band
bagpipe balletic n
adj / Sband /
bailment / baSleZik / Gmc > Prov > E
Gk > L > It > F [has homonym: banned] a body of
baker [has near homonym: balladic] armed individuals : gang.
relating to or resembling ballet. Al Capone’s band of outlaws had a
The Russian ice dancers performed hideout in the northern woods of
a balletic program to win the Wisconsin.
Olympic gold medal.
banda
ballistician
bandit
bandy
Page 11 of 153
barong batter
baneful n
barracoon / SbaZE(r) /
banefully E
basalt [has homonym: badder] a mixture
banish (as for cake or waffles) that
baseball consists of flour, liquid, and other
bankbook ingredients and is thin enough to
based pour or drop from a spoon.
bannerstone Gordon mixed batter for waffles
basha while Julie sliced fruit and made
banquette bacon.
n basic
/ baNSket / adj battlement
Gmc > Prov > F / SbCsik / n
[has homonym: banket] a raised Gk > L > F > E / SbaZFlmEnt /
way or foot bank along the inside of, relating to, or characteristic of a Celt > L > F > E + Ecf
of a parapet on which soldiers are compound capable of reacting with a parapet that consists of alternate
posted to fire upon the enemy. an acid to form a salt, its aqueous solid parts and open spaces that is
The battle plan called for the solutions if it is water-soluble used in fortified buildings for
archers to stand on the banquette having an acrid brackish taste and defense.
and fire upon the approaching turning litmus blue. The soldiers on the west battlement
enemy. The textbook stated that basic had been bribed to ignore the
substances felt slippery and tasted advancing enemy.
bantamize bad, but the students were
forbidden to touch or taste the bawcock
bantling chemicals in the lab. n
/ SbOTkBk /
barbarity basil F>E
a fine fellow.
barbecue basilar “How art thou today, good
bawcock?” inquired Theo.
barbed basilect
bayadere
barbules basipetal n
/ SbI(y)ETdi(E)r /
barcelona basque L > Pg > F
a fabric made with a design of
barely bassinet horizontal stripes in strongly
contrasted colors.
barleycorn bastinado Leslyn planned to use the remnant
of bayadere for a wall hanging.
barn batea
n bazoo
/ SbBrn / bathe
E beachhead
[Note: The definition provided is bathetic n
not the one most commonly / SbGchThed /
associated with this word.] a unit of bathorse unknown + E
area used in nuclear physics for [Note: The definition provided is
measuring cross section. bathrobe not the one most commonly
Zirconium has an absorption cross associated with this word.] an
section of only 0.18 barn for low- bathtub initial advance position or foothold
energy neutrons. to be used as vantage ground for
extending to new areas.
barnacles The general discussed with the
president his selection of Site A as
baronetcy the beachhead for the invasion.
Page 12 of 153
beaming beaver begonia
adj n n
/ SbGmiN / / SbGvE(r) / / bDSgPnyE /
E E F name
marked by or expressive of extreme a large semiaquatic rodent having a plant of a large genus of
and unreserved joy, happiness, or webbed hind feet and a broad flat succulent herbs native to the tropics
satisfaction. tail, feeding chiefly on bark and but widely cultivated with
The beaming actress thanked the twigs. asymmetrical leaves and flowers
audience profusely for applauding. Thanks to the adaptations of its succeeded by capsular fruit.
teeth, the beaver has a remarkable Aunt Betsy planted a pink begonia
beaner ability to cut down trees for food beside Grandmother’s grave.
and building mats.
beanery behave
because
beanstalk behavioral
becerrista
bearskin behest
n bedchamber
/ Sbe(E)rTskin / n beleaguered
E+E / SbedTchCmbE(r) /
[Note: The definition provided is E + Gk > L > F > E beletter
not the one most commonly bedroom. v
associated with this word.] an often The ladies of the bedchamber were / bDSleZE(r) /
large full-dress military hat made the only ones who ever saw the E+L>F>E
of the skin of a bear. queen without her wig. decorate the name of (a person) by
The palace guard adjusted his appending abbreviations of official
saber and bearskin before bedevilment or academic rank.
reporting for duty. Horace looks forward to the day he
bedlamite can beletter his name with M.D.
beastie
beefsteak belief
beastly n
adj beeswax / bDSlGf /
/ SbGstlG / E
E beetle trust in religion : persuasion of the
[Note: Could be confused with n validity of religious ideas.
bestially, beastily, beastlily.] very / SbGZFl / Jennifer’s belief has been
nasty : abominable. E unshakable through many
The mountain climbers were [has homonym: beadle] any of unforeseen bumps in the road of
stymied in their attempt to reach various insects resembling those in life.
the summit because of the beastly the order Coleoptera.
weather. Both a cockroach and a ladybug bellarmine
may be called a “beetle.”
beautician befallen bellhop
v
beautiful / bDSfOlEn / bellowed
E
beauty taken place especially as if by bellowing
prompting of destiny or fate. v
beauvais Sandro would have been a rich / Sbe(T)lPiN /
man, if not for the fortune that has E
befallen him. emiting a loud deep hollow
prolonged sound.
befuddle “Stop bellowing,” Mr. Jenkins said
sharply. “Do you want the entire
beginner school to hear you?”
bellyband
belong
Page 13 of 153
berthage bicaudate
beloved adj
beryl / bISkOTdCt /
bementite L
beset having or terminating in two tails.
benday Tommy paid two dollars at the fair
besides to see a bicaudate salamander.
benedictory
betray bicolor
benefice
better bidentate
benighted
beverage bidet
benignancy
beware bienniums
benjamin
n bewitch bier
/ SbenjEmDn /
F>E bezoar bifid
a balsamic resin that is obtained
from various trees of the genus Bible bifurcate
Styrax that is used chiefly in n
treating irritations of the skin. / SbIbEl / bight
Zach smeared a dollop of benjamin Phoenician geog name > Gk
on his mosquito bite. a book containing the sacred bigwig
writings of a religion.
bensh The Koran is the Muslim Bible. bilabial
benumbed biblical bilander

v adj
/ bDSnEmd / / SbiblDkEl / billabong
E Gk n
deprived of sensation or feeling. of, relating to, derived from, or in / SbilETbON /
The skiers returned to the lodge to accord with the Bible. Australian native name
warm their benumbed fingers and Camp Joseph’s guidelines are a backwater caused by overflow
toes. biblical, although the counselors from a river and forming a stagnant
rarely ever mention the Bible. pool.
benzidine Jill’s postcard from Australia
bibliophagous pictured an emu standing by a
bequeathal billabong.
bibliophilic
bergylt billfold
bibliophilist
berkelium billionth
bibliotherapy
berloque n billycan
/ TbiblGEStherEpG / n
berserk Gk + Gk / SbilGTkan /
adj the use of selected reading Australian > E
/ bErSzErk / materials as curative facilitators in [Note: Could be confused with
ON medicine and in psychiatry; also : billiken.] a cylindrical container
marked by a display of violent guidance in the solution of personal having a set-in lid and a wire bail
erratic behavior indicative of problems through directed reading. and often used for outdoor cooking.
extreme excitement or agitation and The child psychologist spoke to the Arlene accidentally knocked over
suggestive of sudden mental parent group about the the billycan, scattering the coals
unbalance. effectiveness of bibliotherapy. and starting a small fire.
Jake almost went berserk when the
last concert tickets were sold to the bimanous
person in line just ahead of him.
Page 14 of 153
bimester bitter blancmange
adj n
bioethics / SbiZE(r) / / blESmBnj /
E F+L>F
biorhythm [Note: The definition provided is a dessert made from gelatinous or
not the one most commonly starchy substances and milk usually
biosensor associated with this word. In sweetened, flavored, and shaped in
n addition, word has homonym: a mold.
/ SbIPTsen(t)sE(r) / bidder.] distasteful to the mind : A touch of anisette is the secret to
Gk + L distressing to contemplate. Cassandra’s blancmange.
a device sensitive to a physical or Larry had to accept the bitter fact
chemical stimulus and transmitting that all his houseplants were dying. blare
information about a life process.
The technicians checked and bittersweet blas
rechecked every biosensor on
board the space station. bitumen blaspheme
biphyletic bivalve blasphemed
birder bivittate blastocyte

n
/ SbErdE(r) / bizarrely blastomere
E
an observer or identifier of wild bizygomatic bleak
birds in their natural surroundings. adj
Uncle Hayden is so avid a birder blackjack / SblGk /
that he never goes anywhere E
without binoculars and his blackmail lacking in warmth or kindliness :
notebook. n cheerless, grim.
/ SblakTmCl / The bleak environmentalist warned
birdlime E + ON > E of pollution’s impact on life on
n extortion of money by threats Earth.
/ SbErdTlIm / especially of subjecting someone to
E+E criminal prosecution or revealing blench
an extremely adhesive substance something injurious to his or her
formerly used to trap small birds by reputation. blepharitis
smearing twigs where the birds are Blackmail was originally
accustomed to perch. protection money that Scottish bletting
Marvin begged the gardener not to chieftains forced farmers and small
use birdlime to get rid of the landowners to pay for protection blewits
burgeoning sparrow population. against plunder.
blimp
birr blackout
blindfold
bisdiapason blacksmith v
/ SblIn(d)TfPld /
bisect blahs E
v cover the eyes of with or as if with
/ SbITsekt / blanch a bandage.
L v Club members insisted that
divide into two usually equal parts. / Sblanch / Demetrius blindfold his little
The teacher taught the class how to F>E brother before taking him to their
use a compass to bisect a line. scald or parboil (foods) in boiling secret hideout.
water or steam in order to remove
bismarckian the skin from, whiten, or stop blister
enzymatic action in.
bisulcate Jessica’s cooking teacher told her
to blanch and peel the tomatoes
bite before adding them to the sauce.
Page 15 of 153
blithesome blubbery bolivar
adj n
/ SblIthsEm / bluff / bPSlGTvBr /
E + Ecf S Amer name
lively in voice, manner, or blurbist the basic monetary unit of
appearance : cheery, merry. Venezuela.
The blithesome lottery winner boards Drew recently added a drachma, a
gushed that she had just booked a ruble, and a bolivar to his currency
Caribbean cruise. boardwalk collection.
blockhead boarish bolo

n
/ SblBkShed / boater bolshevism
D>F>E+E n
a dull and stupid person. / SbPZE(r) / bolshevize
Clara called Kory a “blockhead” E
for believing everything said in [Note: The definition provided is bolster
commercials. not the one most commonly
associated with this word.] a man’s bolt
blondined stiff straw hat with a flat crown, n
ribbon band, and straight brim. / SbPlt /
bloodhound Grandpa reminisced about when he E
attended Fourth of July picnics a rod or heavy pin designed to
bloodless wearing his white linen suit and a fasten two or more objects together
adj boater. or to hold one or more objects in
/ SblEdlDs / place, often having a head at one
E boatload end and a screw thread cut upon the
lacking or apparently lacking other end.
blood. bobble Ever earthquake-conscious, Becky
Martha’s face went bloodless with used a large bolt to fasten the
fright at the sight of her brother bodaciously heavy bookcase to the wall.
Joe’s Halloween costume.
bodhi bombardier
bloodstone
bodoni bomblet
bloodthirsty
boffo bond
blooming n
adj bogatyr / SbBnd /
/ SblVmiN / E
E boiling a mechanism by means of which
flowering. adj atoms, ions, or groups of atoms are
A blooming azalea sits on the cedar / SbOiliN / held together in a molecule or
chest in Paul’s house. L>F>E crystal.
bubbling from the action of heat. The fact that the length of the bond
blotter The boiling blue and yellow liquids between atoms can be calculated
in the lab fascinated young flabbergasted Tenacity.
blowgun Lucinda.
blowhole boisterously
n
/ SblPThPl /
E+E
a nostril in the top of the head of a
whale or other cetacean.
The whale gave one spout through
its blowhole, took in fresh air, and
was down again.
Page 16 of 153
bondsman boondockers borsholder
n n pl n
/ SbBn(d)zmEn / / SbVnTdBkE(r)z / / SbO(r)sThPldE(r) /
E Tag? E
[Note: Plural form is pronounced field shoes. a parish officer in Great Britain
identically. Also, has near After a long day of planting corn, corresponding to the petty
homonym: bondman.] one who Horace was relieved to get out of constable.
assumes legal liability for another’s his boondockers. William Dalton was appointed
debt, default, or failure to do a borsholder of Keston in 1790.
duty. boorish
The defendant was released from botchy
jail after a bondsman posted his bootlegger
bail. n bottle
/ SbVtTlegE(r) /
boneyard F > E + ON > E boubou
one who illegally manufactures,
bongo sells, or transports for sale boucharde
especially alcoholic liquor.
bonkers Government agents followed the bouchee
bootlegger to his secret still and
bonnetless destroyed it. boulter
bonspiel borage bouncer
boodle borane boundless

n
boohoo / SbPTrCn / bounteously
ISV
bookend a compound of boron and bounty
hydrogen. n
bookish The simplest borane is called / SbaUntG /
adj “diborane” and has 12 valence L>E
/ SbUkish / electrons. a reward, premium, or subsidy
E especially when offered or given by
of or relating to books. borax the government.
The result of Hilda’s bookish life is The state offered a $5000 bounty
that every available wall of her bordeaux for the apprehension of the escaped
home is lined with books. convict.
boreal
booklet bower
boresight
bookworm bowgrace
n boresome n
/ SbUkTwErm / / SbaUTgrCs /
E+E boric F>E
one unusually devoted to reading or adj a fender of rope or waste for
studying books. / SbPrik / protecting a ship from injury by
Vanessa was a bookworm when she L>F floating ice.
was in elementary school but of, relating to, or derived from a Captain Armstrong ordered the
recently started showing more high-melting trivalent metalloid deckhand to reattach the bowgrace
interest in extracurricular element that is known both in an to the ship’s prow.
activities. extremely hard shiny black
crystalline form and in the form of bowknot
a greenish yellow or brown
amorphous powder. bowl
Boric acid is used industrially to
make Pyrex.
boron
Page 17 of 153
bowler brandy breloque
n n
/ SbPlE(r) / / SbrandG / breve
E name D
a stiff felt hat with a dome-shaped [Note: The definition provided is bricole
crown and a rather narrow rolled not the one most commonly
brim—called also “derby.” associated with this word. In bridegroom
Until recent times a proper English addition, word could be confused n
gentleman wouldn’t leave home with barani.] a trampoline and / SbrIdTgrVm /
without his bowler and brolly. tumbling stunt in which the E
performer does a front somersault a man just married or about to be
bowsprit with a half twist. married.
The crowd went wild as Chris The bridegroom wiped frosting
bowstave executed a perfect brandy. from his mouth and smiled for the
photographer.
brace brassy
adj bridge
bracero / SbrasG / n
E / Sbrij /
bracketed of the color of brass, a usually E
yellow alloy of copper with zinc or any of various widely differing
brad formerly tin. card games for four players in two
n The brassy color of Mrs. Gilbert’s partnerships.
/ Sbrad / hair could not possibly be natural. Barb and Ray invited their
E neighbors over to play bridge and
a slender wire nail with a small brat watch videos.
deep round head.
Ricardo used a brad to attach the brattice brie
moulding.
brazenface brighten
bradytely
breakage brill
brainstorm
v breaker brilliantly
/ SbrCnTstO(E)rm / n
E+E / SbrCkE(r) / brio
find a solution for a specific F > Sp > E
problem by amassing [Note: The definition provided is briskly
spontaneously occurring ideas. not the one most commonly adv
Henley’s group decided to associated with this word. In / SbrisklG /
brainstorm in the morning session addition, word has homonym: F? + Ecf
and evaluate the produced ideas in braker.] a small water cask in a quick, energetic manner.
the afternoon session. especially for use in a lifeboat. Because of the cold Sam walked
The first thing the survivors did briskly to the store.
bramble was to ration the water in the
breaker. brisque
branchiae n
breastplate / Sbrisk /
brandied n F
/ SbrestTplCt / [has homonym: brisk] an ace or a
E + Gk? > L > F > E ten in certain card games in which
a metal plate protecting the torso as the ten ranks between the ace and
defensive armor. the king.
The knight with the broken Emily needed a brisque to take the
collarbone struggled painfully out trick and win the game.
of his breastplate.
breeze
Page 18 of 153
broadcast bronzesmith buckeye
n
/ SbrOdTkast / brood buckish
E + ON > E n
a single radio or television / SbrVd / buckle
program. E
Dad always stops whatever he is [has homonym: brewed] the buckles
doing in order to listen to the news offspring of the same hen
broadcast. especially if nearly of the same age. bucksaw
Tim selected the largest chick from
broaden the brood for a pet. buckshot
brocard brooklime buckwheat

n
brogue / SbrUTklIm / budding
E
broguery [Note: Could be confused with buddleia
geographical name Brookline.] any
broil of certain aquatic or semiaquatic budge
v plants of the genus Veronica.
/ SbrOil / American brooklime can be found buff
L? > F > E along stream banks, swamps, clear adj
cook by direct exposure to radiant ponds, and springs. / SbEf /
heat (as on a grill over live coals or Gk > L > It > F
beneath a gas flame or electric brother of a light to moderate yellow color.
coil). Cedric chose buff paper for his
Sharon brought two salmon steaks brow résumé.
to broil on Gary’s hibachi.
browbeat buffable
broken
brownstone buffer
brokenhearted n
adj / SbraUnTstPn / buffeted
/ TbrPkEnShBrZDd / E+E
E+E a reddish brown sandstone used for bulb
having the spirits depressed : building.
crushed by grief or despair. The house faced with brownstone bulge
Broke and brokenhearted, the was built about 75 years ago.
prodigal son returned to ask his bulging
father’s forgiveness. bruisewort
bumicky
broker brushability
n bunch
/ SbrPkE(r) / brusquerie n
F > AF > E / SbEnch /
an agent who for a fee or brute E
commission negotiates contracts of aggregate, cluster; especially : an
purchase and sale between buyers bruxomania aggregate of things of the same
and sellers. kind existing as a natural group or
Pat’s grandfather was a cotton bryology considered together.
broker who lost a fortune in the Jason selected the largest bunch of
Crash of ’29. buccally grapes he could find and put it in
his dad’s grocery cart.
bronchiole bucchero
bronchoconstrictor buchite
bronchoscope bucket
Page 19 of 153
bundle burning cack
n adj n
/ SbEndFl / / SbErniN / / Skak /
D>E E unknown
[Note: The definition provided is on fire. a baby’s heelless shoe with a soft
not the one most commonly Al backed his chair away from the leather sole.
associated with this word.] a heat of the burning campfire. The shoe clerk recommended a size
shipping unit of about 125 pounds 3 cack for Amanda’s three-month
that is used in papermaking. burnisher old boy.
Rick bargained to reduce the
shipping rate by 25 cents per burst cadastral
bundle.
burtoning caddisworm
bungee
burweed cadences
Bunraku n pl
n bury / SkCdFn(t)sDz /
/ bUnSrB(T)kV / L > It > E
Jpn bushels the modulated and rhythmic
Japanese puppet theater featuring n pl recurrences of any sound,
large costumed wooden puppets, / SbUshElz / especially the sounds of nature.
onstage puppeteers, and a chanter E Mary whispered in Jean’s ear so
who speaks all the lines. units of dry capacity used in the quietly that her words sounded
Bunraku features four-foot-high United States, each equal to merely like broken cadences of
dolls adroitly manipulated by 2,150.42 cubic inches. breathing.
black-clad puppeteers in full view By his reckoning, Herman had
of the audience. hauled over 10,000 bushels of cadential
leaves by the end of the fall.
bunt cadmium
v buskined
/ SbEnt / caducicorn
Gmc > F > E bustard
block or push (the ball) in a game cafard
of baseball within the infield by buttonboard
meeting it with a loosely held bat caftan
and no swing. bygones
The team coach told Jackson to cage
bunt the next pitch. byssoid
cahier
buoyage bystander
cairngorm
buoyance byway
calamander
burbark byzantinism
calamari
burble cabbage
v calash
/ SbErbEl / cabdriver n
imit E / kESlash /
become turbulent. cabin Czech > G > F
In the wind-tunnel tests, Hans a large hood worn by women in the
could see the air burble off the left cablese 18th century.
wing. Priscilla’s calash was made of
caboodle green silk and was supported by
burgee whalebone hoops.
cacholong
burmite calcaneal
caciquism
calciferous
Page 20 of 153
calfskin calzone camshaft
n
californium / kalSzPn / canaanite
L > It
Calinago a baked or fried turnover of pizza canaliculus
n dough stuffed with various fillings
/ kalESnB(T)gP / usually including cheese. cancan
Carib > Sp Jenna’s calzone was so large that it n
a native of the Lesser Antilles. nearly covered the entire plate. / SkanTkan /
The guide for the couple’s island F
tour was a Calinago. camber a woman’s dance of French origin
characterized by high kicking
caller cambistry usually while holding up the front
n of a full ruffled skirt.
/ SkOlE(r) / camcorder There used to be many clubs in
ON > E n Paris where the cancan was
[Note: The definition provided is / SkamTkO(r)dE(r) / performed.
not the one most commonly L>E+L>E
associated with this word. In a small portable videocassette candid
addition, word has near homonym: camera and recorder combined.
collar.] one that makes the calls for Jessica borrowed her neighbor’s candied
a square dance. camcorder to make a tape for her
Don is the senior square dance parents. canicular
club’s favorite caller.
camel canker
calligram
camelback cankerous
Callisaurus
n Camelot canned
/ TkalESsOrEs / n
Gk / SkamETlBt / cannery
a small genus of lizards (family E name
Iguanidae). a time, place, or atmosphere of cannoli
The gridiron-tailed lizard is a idyllic happiness. n pl
member of the genus Callisaurus The assassination of President / kESnPlG /
living in the southwestern United Kennedy is sometimes referred to L > It
States. as “the end of Camelot.” tubes of pastry fried in deep fat and
camisa filled with a sweetened mixture of
calories n ricotta cheese, cream, and
/ kESmGsE / flavoring.
calorimetric Gmc > L > Sp Aunt Carla’s cannoli are so good
adj a woman’s embroidered blouse that an Italian restaurant offered to
/ TkalErDSmetrik / with loose sleeves. buy her recipe.
(L + Gk) > F Jeri practiced her Spanish while
of or relating to the measurement of bargaining for a colorful camisa. canonize
quantities of heat.
The lab manual explained how to camouflet cantatrice
make a calorimetric device using n
two Styrofoam cups and a campaigner / TkBntEStrGchG /
thermometer. L > It > F
campfire [Note: One of plural forms is
calorimetry pronounced similarly.] a woman
camphoraceous singer; especially : an opera singer.
calotype The cantatrice sang most
camporee poignantly when she bid goodbye
calyculus in her death scene.
campsite
Cantonese
camptocormia
Page 21 of 153
canvasback carhop casement
n
caoutchouc cariostatic / SkCsmEnt /
F? > E
capacitance carious a window sash that opens on
hinges.
capillaceous carnation The imprisoned princess chipped
away at the mortar surrounding the
capriciously carnelian iron bars set in the casement.
capsicum caroche Cassandra

n
capsized carousal / kESsandrE /
Gk name
captive carouse one who prophesies misfortune or
disaster.
captivity carphology Mary’s accurate intuition about
impending adversity makes her a
car carport Cassandra whose warnings should
n be heeded.
/ SkBr / carrefour
L > G or D > E cassioberry
[Note: The definition provided is carrier
not the one most commonly cassis
associated with this word.] a large carroccio
live-box for keeping fish or lobsters caste
alive. carry n
Sherman tossed the lobster into the / Skast /
car and continued fishing. carsick L > Pg
[has homonym: cast] one of the
carbide carstone hereditary classes into which the
n n society of India is divided in
/ SkBrTbId / / SkBrTstPn / accordance with a system
L + ISVcf E fundamental in Hinduism.
a binary compound of carbon with a firmly cemented ferruginous Members of the Brahman caste
a more electropositive element. sandstone found in the British isles. have the exclusive right to become
Carbon combines with metals to Carstone, once a traditional Hindu priests.
form several kinds of carbide, some English building material, is now
of which are used in metal-cutting used largely for constructional fill. casteless
tools.
cartload castellatus
carbonnade n
/ SkBrtTlPd / casting
carcinolytic ON > E + E
one third of a cubic yard (as of casual
careful dirt).
Every spring, Glennis goes to the cataclysmically
carfare tree nursery and buys a cartload of
dirt for her garden. catallactics
carga
n cartoons catalogic
/ SkBrgE /
Sp carty catalufa
a unit of weight usually of a value
about equal to 300 pounds used in carvel catalyst
Mexico and certain other Spanish-
American countries. case catamount
Juan ordered a carga of rice from
his vendor. catatonic
Page 22 of 153
catawba Catholic cent
n adj
/ kEStObE / / Skath(E)lik / centenarian
Choctaw Gk > L > F
a very dark to blackish red. of, relating to, or being a body of centenary
When Morton added a layer of Christians belonging to any of
indigo paint to his red Volkswagen, various churches claiming center
the resulting color could only be historical continuity from the
called “catawba.” ancient undivided Christian centerpiece
Church.
catcall Roger and Theresa are planning a centesimate
Catholic wedding with a full mass.
catch centripetally
n cationic
/ Skach / adj centrolinead
L>F>E / SkaZTITBnik /
[has near homonyms: cache, cash, Gk > ISV ceramics
ketch] something that is taken in or relating to or consisting of
as if in a trap; especially : the total positively charged atoms or groups cerebellar
quantity trapped at one time. of atoms.
The commercial fishing boat Sodium atoms can easily lose an cerebration
returned to the harbor with an electron and thus become cationic.
unusually good catch. certiorari
cattery
catchy cervicorn
caulescent
cate cesspool
n caulocarpic n
/ SkCt / / SsesTpVl /
L>F>E cavalierly L>F>E
[has homonym: kate] a dainty or an underground catch basin that is
choice food : delicacy. caveman used where there is no sewer.
Some consider caviar a cate; A contractor determined the best
others disdainfully refer to it as cavern location for the farmhouse’s
“fish eggs.” cesspool.
ceilometer
catechesis chain
celature n
categorematic / SchCn /
celestialize L>F>E
categorical [Note: The definition provided is
celiotomy not the one most commonly
catenate associated with this word.] a unit of
v cembalo length equal to 66 feet.
/ SkaZETnCt / According to the original survey,
L cenacle Lynette’s property has a total
connect in a series of links or ties. frontage of 1 chain.
“The ability of carbon to catenate cense
is discussed on page 743 of your v chairman
textbook,” the lab technician said / Ssen(t)s /
condescendingly. L chairoplane
perfume.
cater During the ceremony, the priests chairwoman
cense the altar.
cathode chalazion
censor
chambray
censurable
channel
Page 23 of 153
chantilly chelate chiaus
v
chaotically / SkGTlCt / Chicano
Gk n
characterize combine with (a metal) so as to / chiSkBnP /
form a ring of usually five or six Sp
charbray atoms in which a central metallic [Note: Could be confused with
ion is held in a coordination Chicana.] a male American of
charm complex by one or more groups, Mexican descent.
n each of which can attach itself to Rodrigo is proud to be a Chicano.
/ SchBrm / the central ion by at least two
E bonds. chickabiddy
[Note: The definition provided is Lead poisoning is usually treated
not the one most commonly with agents such as EDTA or BAL chickling
associated with this word.] a flock that chelate with lead to form a n
of finches. stable complex of ions. / SchikliN /
The largest finch flew out of the L>F>E
charm and alighted on the chimney. cherish the grass pea of Europe cultivated
for seeds and forage.
charnel cherry Seeds of the chickling can be made
adj into paste balls, put in curry, or
charterhouse / ScherG / boiled and eaten like legumes.
n Gk > L > F > E
/ SchBrZErThaUs / [has homonym: chary] of a chide
F>E variable color averaging a moderate
a monastery for members of an red that has a hint of yellow. chiffchaff
austere religious order founded by Santa is often portrayed with
St. Bruno in 1084. cherry cheeks. chiller
Monks leave the charterhouse once
a week to take a long walk. chert chimerism
charwoman chessman china

n
chasseur / SchesTman / Chinarra
F&L > E n
checkers [Note: Could be confused with / chDSnBrE /
plural form of word.] one of 32 Amerind > Sp
checkrein pieces used in chess. an Indian people comprising a
Sasha’s cat knocked over a major subdivision of the Concho
cheekiness chessman as she jumped up on the group.
board. The small museum was devoted to
cheekpiece the culture of the Chinarra.
chesstree
cheeseburger n chine
/ SchesTtrG /
F>E chinfest
a piece of wood with a pulley or
pulleys bolted in the topside of an chintz
antiquated ship.
Elmo wrapped the line around the
chesstree to keep from tripping on
it as he swabbed the deck.
chestnut
cheviot
chez
Page 24 of 153
chiral choucroute chromosome
adj n
/ SkI(E)rEl / / shVkrVt / chronicles
Gk F+G>F n pl
of, relating to, or being a molecule sauerkraut. / SkrBnDkElz /
that is nonsuperimposable on its Elena ordered a bratwurst covered Gk > L > F
mirror image. with choucroute. historical accounts of facts or
Ray tried to explain why chiral events that are arranged in order of
compounds are called “optically chrematistics time and usually without analysis
active” and what they do to light or interpretation.
that passes through them. chrism In his chronicles the geologist
describes the many expeditions he
chirography christened took to study volcanos.
v
chirotony / SkrisFnd / chrononomy
Gk > L > E
chitchat received or initiated into a chrysolite
Christian church by the rite of
chlorella baptism. chrysopal
n The priest christened the Jensens’
/ klESrelE / new baby Theodore. chrysoprase
Gk > L
any of the nonmotile unicellular christening chuck
green algae of the genus Chlorella.
In the ponds studied, the chlorella Christian chucklehead
proved to be the most efficient n
photosynthetic organism. / Skris(h)chEn / church
Gk > L n
chloromelanite one who believes or professes or is / SchErch /
assumed to believe in Jesus Christ E
chlorophane and the truth as taught by him. a building set apart for public
When Marie was baptized a especially Christian worship.
chockablock Christian, she decided to read the The church of Hagia Sophia in
adv Bible daily. Istanbul was built in the sixth
/ SchBkETblBk / century A.D.
unknown + D > F > E chroma
in a crowded or overflowing n chylomicron
manner. / SkrPmE /
Condos and cabins were built Gk cicadellid
chockablock along the tiny beach. the color dimension on the Munsell
scales that correlates most closely cicatrix
cholla with saturation.
The aspect of color known as cider
choplogical “chroma” refers to its vividness.
cinch
chopper chromic
adj cinematize
choragic / SkrPmik /
Gk cinemobile
choralcelo of, relating to, or derived from a
blue-white usually hard and brittle
chordal metallic element that is resistant to
corrosion and is used chiefly in
chorography alloys and in electroplating.
Mr. McGonigle corrected Stan’s
choruses diagram of the structure of chromic
acid to include four oxygen atoms.
chrominance
Page 25 of 153
cinereal civilly cleaver
adj
/ sDSnirGEl / cladoptosis clef
L
gray tinged or shaded with black— claimant cleft
used especially in technical
descriptions in biology. claimer cleoid
The cinereal plumage of the vulture
made it look as if it had fallen in an clairvoyance clericature
ashpit.
clamor clever
cipher
clang cliffside
circulation
clapper climax
circumambient
adj claro clinamen
/ TsErkEmSambGEnt /
L clasp clingstone
surrounding, encompassing. n
The circumambient fog made / Sklasp / clingy
driving extremely difficult. E adj
a releasable catch for holding / SkliNG /
circumforaneous together two or more objects or E
complementary parts of something. having a strong emotional
circummure Sharon struggled impatiently with attachment or dependence.
the ornate clasp on the small box Dylan was nervous and clingy
circumspect that Jamal gave her. when his mother took him to his
new kindergarten.
circumspectly claustration
clinkerer
cirrostratus clausula
cloak
cis claybank n
adj / SklPk /
/ Ssis / cleanliness L > ON > F
L something resembling or
[has homonym and near homonym: clearing suggesting an outer garment.
sis and cyst] having or n The princesses decided, “Words
characterized by certain atoms or / SkliriN / and numbers are of equal value,
groups on the same side of the E for, in the cloak of knowledge, one
molecule. a tract of land made free of wood is warp and the other woof.”
Greg said that cis isomers and and brush.
trans isomers were molecules made The deer moved among the trees at cloakroom
of the same combination of atoms, the edge of the clearing.
but in different configurations and clog
often with very different properties. cleavage n
/ SklBg /
cisco cleave E
v [Note: The definition provided is
citrine / SklGv / not the one most commonly
E associated with this word.] a heavy
citron adhere firmly, loyally, and shoe, sandal, or overshoe having a
unwaveringly. thick typically wooden sole.
citrus The minister said that even though The thick-soled clog is the
doubt was a natural human failing, precursor of the modern tap shoe.
city believers must still cleave to the
doctrines of the church.
cityscape
Page 26 of 153
clogger coach cognate
n adj
/ SklBgE(r) / coact / SkBgTnCt /
E L
one who performs a dance with a coalmouse of a language : related by descent
clattering rhythm while wearing n from the same recorded or assumed
clogs. / SkPlTmaUs / ancestral language.
Skip is a clogger and performs E An 18th-century judge named
every year at the state fair. a small greenish gray European William Jones revealed that ancient
bird with a black cap and white Sanskrit is actually cognate with
clogging patch on the neck. Western European languages.
The coalmouse looked around
cloister suspiciously before flying off. cogwheel
v
/ SklOistE(r) / coaxial coherent
L>F>E adj
confine in or as if in an enclosed cobra / kPShirEnt /
space : seclude from the world. L
Brenda knew the property manager coccid having the quality of holding
would disapprove of her new together firmly.
puppy, but she couldn’t cloister cockleshell Marcello cooked the risotto for so
Muffin in her apartment any long that it came out of the pan in a
longer. cocotte single coherent lump.
clonal cocozelle cohort
clone codex coiffeuse
closure codices coimplicant
clothespin coeducation coincidence

n
clou coelacanth / kPSin(t)sDdEn(t)s /
L
cloy coesite the concurrence of events or
circumstances appropriate to one
clump cofeature another or having significance in
n relation to one another but between
clumsiness / kPSfGchE(r) / which there is no apparent causal
L>E+L>F>E connection.
clumsy a presentation in a program (as in By coincidence, Mary’s wedding
an entertainment) accompanying date is the same day her cousin
cluster but usually subordinate in interest plans to get married.
n to a main attraction.
/ SklEstE(r) / Kerry thought that the cofeature colcothar
E was more interesting than the
a number of similar things grouped feature presentation. cold
together in association or in adj
physical proximity. coffin / SkPld /
Several people who lived in the E
cluster of houses near the chemical coffle having a temperature notably below
plant have serious health problems. that compatible with human
cogitation comfort.
clydesdale The house grew so cold with the
heat cut off that Eric moved into
cnemis the garage, which had a kerosene
heater.
coacervation
colewort
Page 27 of 153
colin comatose companion
n
colitis combative / kEmSpanyEn /
L > It > D?
collaborative combinatorial [Note: The definition provided is
collared comedist associated with this word.] a
adj structure with frames and sashes
/ SkBlErd / commando formerly incorporated into the deck
L of a vessel to admit light to a cabin
[has homonym: collard] wearing, commeasurable or lower deck.
having, or depicted with a band, adj A large wave crashed into the
strip, or chain worn or placed / kESmezh(E)rEbEl / companion and startled the crew
around the neck. L + L > F > E + L > Ecf members below.
Several collared men stood holding [Note: Could be confused with
farm implements in the old commensurable.] equal in size, companionway
daguerreotype. extent, amount, or degree.
Iron has disadvantages almost comparable
colleague commeasurable with its virtues.
compellable
collect commingle
compendious
collectivize commitments
compensated
colleen commixture
competence
collegian commodatum
complanate
collie commoner
completely
collision commonweal
complexion
collodion commorant
component
colloidal communication
comportment
colluvies community n
/ kEmSpPrtmEnt /
collywobbles commutation F
n pl n manner of bearing : deportment,
/ SkBlGTwBbFlz / / TkBmyEStCshEn / demeanor.
(L + G)? > E? L The mysterious woman, who
a slight intestinal disturbance change of a legal penalty or claimed to be a princess, had a
accompanied by abdominal cramps. punishment to a lesser one. regal comportment and a very
Bruno came down with the At the last minute the governor tasteful wardrobe.
collywobbles after the pie-eating called in his commutation of the
contest. prisoner’s death sentence to life Compositae
imprisonment. n pl
colonization / kEmSpBzETtG /
companies L
colonnette a very large family of herbs,
shrubs, and trees considered to
colostrum constitute the most highly evolved
plants and characterized by florets
coltish arranged in dense heads that
resemble single flowers.
colubrine Plants in the Compositae can be as
small as a dandelion and as large
columbaceous as a sunflower.
Page 28 of 153
compositor concomitance confinement
n
compotation concrete / kEnSfInmEnt /
n L>F
comprehensible / SkBnTkrGt / the act of restraining or state of
L>E being restrained within a limited
comprehension a hard strong building material. area.
The dog walked on the concrete After three years’ confinement, the
compress before it set, leaving its paw prints. convict was released on parole.
v
/ kEmSpres / condescension confrerie
L n
reduce the volume of by or as if by / TkBndDSsenchEn / Confucian
pressure : make hard or solid. L adj
At the vitamin factory the children an act or instance of assuming an / kEnSfyVshEn /
were shown a machine that could air of superiority (as to one inferior Chin name
compress the ingredients into a pill or less fortunate). [has near homonym: confusion] of
in less than a second. With dry condescension Mr. Blain or relating to the Chinese
describes the natives as philosopher Confucius or his
compurgation “primitive” and “uncivilized.” teaching or followers.
Most Westerners’ knowledge of
comradeship condone Confucian thought is nonexistent or
limited to a few spurious
comtemptible conepate quotations.
n
comtemptuous / TkPnESpBZC / confusing
Nahuatl > Sp adj
conacaste hog-nosed skunk. / kEnSfyVziN /
Hernandez was the first naturalist L
conatus to classify the conepate and other misleading, perplexing.
skunks in Mexico. “Everything is so confusing and all
concameration your words only make things
confection worse,” he said.
concatenation n
/ kEnSfekshEn / congealed
concave L v
[has near homonym: convection] / kEnSjGld /
concede delicacy; usually : a preparation of L>F>E
fruits, nuts, roots, or other morsels made viscid or of a consistency like
conchiferous with sugar. jelly.
Turkish delight is a chewy The impudent soldier’s punishment
conchologist confection often flavored with was to clean the congealed grease
finely chopped nuts and rosewater. from the wall behind the
conciliating cookstoves.
adj conferencier
/ kEnSsilGTCZiN / congiary
L conferral
tending to become or try to become conglomeration
friendly. confidential
Jane’s fears will completely wear congrio
off when she gets a little acquainted configuration
with Mrs. Elton’s family, for there conjuration
is nothing in their manners but confine
what is highly conciliating.
conciliation
conciliatory
Page 29 of 153
connatural constraint continuity
adj n n
/ kBSnach(E)rEl / / kEnzStrCnt / / TkBntDSn(y)VEZG /
L+L L>F>E L
connected by nature : inborn, control over one’s own feelings, [Note: The definition provided is
inherent. behavior, or actions. not the one most commonly
Many pigeons have a connatural John’s parents taught him that he associated with this word.] the
sense of direction. must put some constraint on his script for a radio or television
quick temper. program (as of the introductory and
conscription transitional material used by an
construct announcer or master of
consequent ceremonies).
consular Mario’s job is to write the
conserve continuity for the variety show.
consulate
consignation contract
consulting
consistent v contraction
adj / kEnSsEltiN /
/ kEnSsistEnt / L contradicted
L asking the advice of : seeking the v
showing no significant change, opinion of. / kBntrESdiktDd /
unevenness, or contradiction. Duke would not take any medicine L
It was impossible for anyone to without consulting his doctor. asserted the contrary of : took issue
throw with such consistent with.
perfection. consultor Esther contradicted nearly
everything her younger brother
conspectus contaminate said.
conspergent contemn contrail
constable contemned contrarily

n adv
/ SkBnztEbEl / contemporaries / kBnStrerDlG /
L>F>E L
a public officer responsible for contempt in a manner opposite to what is
keeping the public peace and for expected.
certain petty judicial duties. contented Karin decided contrarily to stay
In English villages it is not adj home, disappointing her friends
uncommon to see a constable / kEnStentDd / who had planned a movie outing.
making his rounds on a bicycle. L
free from dissatisfaction, anxiety, contrariwise
constant or agitation : easy in mind.
n Steve is a charmer—very friendly contravallation
/ SkBnztEnt / and responsive, and contented with
L life. contravene
something that does not vary or v
change in its relationship or in an contents / TkBntrESvGn /
essential relationship with other L>F
things. go or act contrary to : obstruct the
Soren explained that knowing the operation of.
equilibrium constant of a reaction Ellie was sent to the principal’s
is the key to solving many office when she threatened to
chemistry problems. contravene the rule against leaving
campus.
contrivance
contriver
Page 30 of 153
controller coony cordwinder
n
conurbation coot / SkOrdTwIndEr /
F>E
convention copartner shoemaker.
n Alvin is the best cordwinder in
/ kEnSvenchEn / copen town, yet his prices are reasonable.
L
a practice in bidding or playing that copilot corgi
by agreement between partners in n
certain card games (as bridge) copper / SkOrgG /
conveys some information not W
necessarily deducible by logic. coppernose a short-legged long-backed dog
Doris and Henry played bridge n with foxy head belonging to either
using a convention of their own / SkBpE(r)TnPz / of two Welsh varieties.
devising. L>F>E The Pembroke Welsh corgi in the
an inflamed nose such as that of photo with Queen Elizabeth II is
conversance acne rosacea or that sometimes one of four such dogs she owns.
produced by habitual drunkenness.
conversion W. C. Fields was famous for his coriaceous
n misanthropy and his coppernose.
/ kEnSvErzhEn / corkscrew
L coppersmith
a change in one’s religious corky
orientation marked also by a coquina adj
concomitant change in belief. / SkOrkG /
The conversion of St. Paul on the coralline L > Ar > E
road to Damascus was a favorite peculiar to or suggestive of a
topic of Renaissance painters. corbiestep beverage spoiled by corking.
Sarnak rejected the corky wine and
convincing cord told the waiter to bring another
n bottle.
convocation / SkO(E)rd /
Gk > L > F > E cornupete
convulse [Note: The definition provided is
not the one most commonly coronated
cooncan associated with this word. In
n addition, word has homonym: corpulence
/ SkVnTkan / chord.] a unit of quantity of wood
Sp&E equal to a stack 4 x 4 x 8 feet or correction
[Note: Could be confused with 128 cubic feet.
conquian.] a game of rummy After splitting a cord of firewood, correctional
played by two or more with two Ray went inside for some hot adj
packs of cards including two oatmeal. / kESrekshEnFl /
jokers. L
After losing ten games of cooncan cordaites dealing with or charged with the
in a row, Troy threw up his hands treatment of offenders through a
in despair and quit. corde program involving penal custody,
parole, and probation.
coonskin cordiality After his conviction for
n counterfeiting, Matt had to serve
/ SkVnTskin / cordite several years in a correctional
Algonquian + E facility.
a cap made of the skin or pelt of the corduroys
raccoon.
The frontiersman wore a coonskin cordwainery
with the tail hanging down his
back.
Page 31 of 153
correlative cossack coulometric
adj n adj
/ kESrelEZiv / / SkBTsEk / / SkVlETmetrik /
L Turk > Russ&Ukrainian F name + Gk
of paired words or expressions : a member of a favored military of or relating to chemical analysis
regularly used together but caste of Russian frontiersmen and performed by determining the
typically not adjacent to each other. border guards in Czarist Russia amount of a substance released in
The teacher devoted an entire who played an important part in an electrolysis by measuring the
period to subject-verb agreement Russian expansion. amount of electrical charge used.
when correlative conjunctions are The museum’s hat display included Because an aqueous sodium
used. one worn by a cossack who was an chloride solution can contain
ancestor of Mr. Kuban, the curator. several species that can be oxidized
correlativity and reduced, Anna used
cotangent coulometric analysis.
corroborative
cottagey counterclockwise
corrosion adv
coucal / TkaUntE(r)SklBkTwIz /
corrugate L>F>E+L>F>D>E+E
couching in a direction opposite to that in
corruption n which the hands of a clock rotate.
/ SkaUchiN / Fay never can remember whether
corsepresent L>F>E turning the jar lid counterclockwise
a style of embroidery in which a tightens or loosens it.
cortile flat or raised design is made by
threads or cords fastened down by counterfeiting
corundum small stitches at regular intervals.
n The bodice of the queen’s gown counterfoil
/ kESrEndEm / was decorated with satin threads
Skt > Tamil and golden couching. countermure
aluminum oxide occurring in nature
in massive form and as variously cougar counterpane
colored rhombohedral crystals n
including the gems ruby, sapphire, couleur / SkaUntE(r)TpCn /
oriental amethyst, oriental emerald, L>F>E
and oriental topaz. coulis bedspread.
Ruby can’t believe that all the n Aretha received a silk and linen
different forms of corundum, / kVSlG / counterpane as a wedding present.
including the gem she was named F
after, contain the material from [has near homonyms: coolie, counterreformation
which aluminum foil is made. cooly, coolly, coulee, coulie] a
thick sauce made with pureed countersink
corvette vegetable or fruit and often used as
a garnish. countertrades
coryza For dessert, Kathy ordered a
chocolate torte with raspberry coupette
cosmicality coulis.
couple
cosmogony coulombic n
/ SkEpEl /
cosmonaut L>F>E
two or an indefinite number of.
cosmopolis George’s lunch consisted of a
couple of apples and a candy bar.
cosovereignty
Page 32 of 153
course crawl critical
n v adj
/ SkP(E)rs / / SkrOl / / SkriZDkEl /
L ON > E Gk + Ecf
[has homonym: coarse] policy [has homonym: kraal] move, relating to, indicating, or being a
chosen. progress, or advance slowly or state in which or a measurement or
Though he did not know what laboriously. point at which some quality,
course others would take, for The soldiers were forced to crawl property, or phenomenon suffers a
Patrick Henry the choice was across a minefield to escape the finite change or undergoes drastic
simple: liberty or death. enemy. alteration.
Every substance has a critical
courtyard creance temperature above which its gas
n form cannot be made to liquefy.
/ SkPrtTyBrd / crebrity
L>F>E+E critique
a court or enclosure adjacent to or credenda
attached to a house, castle, palace, croaker
or other building. credulous
The king was pacing in the crochet
courtyard when the messenger creosote
breathlessly announced the birth of crock
the prince. crepe
crocus
cowardice crevasse
croesus
crabwise crewel
croquette
crackle criant
croquettes
cradle criminality n pl
/ krPSkets /
craggy criminology F
n small cone-shaped or rounded
crake / TkrimESnBlEjG / masses consisting usually of
L + Gk minced fowl, meat, or vegetable
cram the scientific study of crime as a coated with egg and bread crumbs
v social phenomenon, of criminal and fried in deep fat.
/ Skram / investigation, of criminals, and of On Friday nights Minnie always
E penal treatment. makes salmon croquettes.
study intensively or under pressure Many police officers take courses
especially for an examination. in criminology and penology at crossopodia
Helga planned ahead so that she community colleges.
would not have to cram on croupade
Thursday night for Friday’s cringle
midterm. croupous
cripple
crane croutons
critic
cranny n crowbar
/ SkriZik /
crate Gk
one who engages often
craven professionally in the analysis,
artistic evaluation, or appreciation
cravenette of works of art (as literary or
dramatic works).
Although the critic enjoyed the play
as a whole, he wasn’t too pleased
with some of the acting.
Page 33 of 153
crown culturist curiological
n
/ SkraUn / cumuli curium
Gk > L > F > E n pl
a royal or imperial headdress or cap / SkyVmyETlI / curling
of sovereignty : a diadem. L n
Eric’s teacher asked him what massy cloud forms having a flat / SkErliN /
Shakespeare meant by the line base and rounded outlines often E
“Uneasy lies the head that wears piled up like mountains and [Note: The definition provided is
the crown.” commonly appearing in the early not the one most commonly
afternoon on warm days. associated with this word.] a game
crucifix Tracy filled the sky of her painting developed in Scotland in which two
with cumuli. teams of four persons each send
cruiser stones spinning over a stretch of ice
cumulonimbus about 42 yards long toward a target
crupper n circle.
/ TkyVmyETlPSnimbEs / Angus has loved curling all his life
cruse L and is the star player on his team.
thundercloud.
crushed As Stephanie drove down Interstate currycomb
v 80, she could see a dark
/ SkrEsht / cumulonimbus approaching from cursive
Gmc > F > E the west.
completely subdued in spirits. cursively
Kate was crushed with sorrow cumulus
when her pet cat met an untimely cursor
death. cunctation
curule
crustaceous cupid
n curvet
cryogenic / SkyVpDd /
L name curvilinear
cryptarithm a naked usually winged infantile
figure representing the Roman god cusp
crystalline of love and often holding a bow n
and arrow. / SkEsp /
crystallomancy Julia pasted a red cupid on a doily L
and slipped it in Tony’s locker. point, apex.
ctenoid Teddy attached a bright red tassel
cupidity to the cusp of the dunce cap.
cubbish
cupiuba cutting
cubby adj
curate / SkEZiN /
cubicle E
curatrices [has homonym: cudding] given to
cuisinier or designed for cutting, severing, or
curbstone dividing.
culicine n The nicks in the planer’s cutting
/ SkErbTstPn / blades annoyed Matt and made it
cult E>F>L+E impossible to get a smooth board.
n a stone set along a margin as a limit
/ SkElt / and protection. cyan
L Chris always managed to hit the
a religion regarded as unorthodox curbstone when he parked the car cyanotic
or spurious. on the street.
The police were warned that the cyberneticist
leaders of the doomsday cult might curfew
have been storing explosives.
Page 34 of 153
Cycladic dace dapper
adj
/ sDSkladik / dacoit dapple
Gk
of or relating to the pre-Mycenaean dado dappled
culture that prevailed in the v
Cyclades islands. dah / SdapEld /
The peoples of the Cycladic E
civilization were seafarers who daimonion marked or variegated with spots or
developed maritime trade with Asia patches of a different shade or
Minor and North Africa before daintiness color.
1000 B.C. The lion was dappled with patterns
dairymaid from the tangle of branches.
cyclogeny
dalmatian dare
cyclone
damage daredevil
Cyclops
n damascene dariole
/ SsITklBps /
Gk damper darning
one of a race of giants in Greek
mythology with a single eye in the damsel dashboard
middle of the forehead.
Kirk found a mask that would help dancery dashi
make him a perfect Cyclops at the n n
masquerade party. / Sdan(t)s(E)rG / / SdBsh(T)G /
L? > F > E + Ecf Jpn
cygneous a place of entertainment providing [has near homonyms: dasi, dassie]
facilities for dancing. a fish broth made from dried
cylindraceous Our neighborhood dancery has bonito.
country line dancing every Yasuko added some miso paste and
cylindrical Tuesday. scallions to the dashi.
adj
/ sDSlindrDkEl / dancy dashpot
Gk > F > E
relating to or having the form or dander dasyphyllous
properties of a tube.
The caterpillar looked like a small, dandify dater
cylindrical accordion, with pleats
running around its circumference danio daube
and spaced evenly along its axis.
danseur dauerlauf
cynegetic n
/ dBMSsEr / daunted
cytochrome L? > F v
n a male ballet dancer. / SdOntDd /
/ SsIZPTkrPm / The director chose a tall, graceful L>F>E
Gk + Gk danseur for the part of Siegfried in sapped of courage : discouraged,
any of several respiratory pigments Swan Lake. intimidated.
that occur in animal and plant cells Even the experienced kayakers
and play a major role in danza were daunted by the river’s
intracellular oxidations. n treacherous rapids.
Enzymes of cytochrome help to / SdBn(t)sE /
detoxify cells and break down fat. L? > F > Sp dauphin
a formal, stately dance.
Czechoslovak The bewigged actors in the daydream
commedia dell’arte began a slow
dabchick danza on the stage. dayroom
Page 35 of 153
deaconess decal declaim
v
deadened decap / dDSklCm /
v L>E
/ SdedFnd / decapod speak pompously, noisily, or
E theatrically.
[Note: Could be confused with decastere While in London, Sarah spent her
dead end.] impaired in vigor, force, Sundays at Speaker’s Corner in
activity, or sensation. decastich Hyde Park listening to various
A dental patient’s pain can be orators declaim about a variety of
effectively deadened by a local decay subjects.
anesthetic.
deceit declamation
deadhead
December declivitous
deal
decennium decoction
deathly n
adj dechlorinate / dDSkBkshEn /
/ SdeJlG / v L
E / dGSklPrETnCt / a liquid preparation made of a
like or having the characteristics of Ecf + Gk > ISV medicinal plant boiled in water.
death. remove chlorine from. In ancient times, a decoction of
A deathly stillness fell over the The gardener was advised to medicinal herbs was often the only
audience as Dracula descended on dechlorinate the tap water before treatment available for internal
his next victim. using it to water certain plants. injuries.
debabelization decide decollate

v
debit / dDSsId / decompression
L>F>E
debonairly arrive at a choice or a solution. decongestant
Jeri couldn’t decide what she
debouch wanted for dessert, so she asked the decontrol
v waiter for his recommendation.
/ dDSbVsh / decoy
L>F decimated
march out into open ground. decuple
Major Kipling ordered the three decimation v
regiments to debouch from the / Sdek(y)EpEl /
ravines. decipher L>F>E
make or become ten times as much
debouches decisive or as many.
adj No one would ever have dreamed
debubblizer / dDSsIsiv / that the company’s worth would
L decuple in two years.
debunk having the power or quality of
resolving : conclusive. dedans
decade Many historians say that the siege
n of Saratoga was the decisive battle dedition
/ SdeTkCd / of the Revolutionary War.
Gk > L > F > E deduction
a period of any ten years. decisively
Carla claims she is going to let her defalcator
hair grow for a decade without deckhand
cutting it. defeasance
decahedral defeat
Page 36 of 153
defeated deity demoralized
v
defenestration delaying / dDSmOrElIzd /
L
deferment delegitimation weakened in courage, fortitude, or
spirit.
deferral delight The employees became
demoralized when company layoffs
deferred delighted were announced.
adj
defiant / dDSlIZDd / demurred
L>F>E
defibrillate highly pleased : gratified, joyous. demythologize
The delighted visitors couldn’t help
deficiencies laughing at the monkey’s antics. denary
deficient deliriously dendroid

adj
deficit delitescence / SdenTdrOid /
Gk
definition deliver resembling a tree in form.
Andy brought back a dendroid
defrayal delouse coral specimen from Bora Bora.
defroster deltoid denial
deftly delusively denigrate
degenerative demanding denominations

adj n pl
degenerescence / dDSmandiN / / dDTnBmESnCshEnz /
L>F>E L
deglaze unremittingly severe or difficult in religious groups or communities of
v making requests. believers called by the same name.
/ dGSglCz / Although the guests were extremely Children of other denominations
Ecf + E demanding, Joyce enjoyed working were excused from attending mass
dissolve the small particles of at the Ritz. at the Roman Catholic school.
sautéed meat remaining in (a pan)
by adding a liquid and heating. demented denotatum
The chef explained that when n
making a meat gravy, one should demicannon / TdGnPStCZEm /
first deglaze the pan with water or L
broth. demigod an actually existing object referred
n to by a word, sign, or linguistic
degreaser / SdemGTgBd / expression.
L+E The denotatum of the word tree is a
degree a mythological divine or large woody plant having branches
n semidivine being (as the offspring and leaves.
/ dDSgrG / of a deity and a mortal) thought to
L>F>E possess less power than a god. density
a 360th measure for arcs and The hero Gilgamesh was a n
angles. demigod in ancient Babylonian / Sden(t)sEZG /
A miscalculation of only 1 degree mythology. L
on the reentry angle of the the mass of a substance per unit
spacecraft could drastically change demipique volume.
fuel consumption levels. Jorge calculated what the density
demonstrable of a bubble of gas at the bottom of
dehydrate the lake would be.
demonstrate
Page 37 of 153
dentelle describe detachability
denunciator desensitize detainer

n
depayse deserts / dDStCnE(r) /
n pl L > AF
depilous / SdezE(r)ts / a writ authorizing the keeper of a
L prison to continue to keep a person
deplete regions in which the vegetation is in custody.
so scanty as to be incapable of The Immigration and
depoliticize supporting any considerable Naturalization Service sent the
population. warden a detainer with instructions
deportee The class included Antarctica in its to hold a prisoner for deportation
study of deserts. proceedings.
deposition
n desiccation detent
/ TdepESzishEn /
L designee detention
testimony taken down in writing n
under oath or affirmation. designer / dDStenchEn /
The psychiatrist’s deposition was n L
presented to the judge and jury as / dDSzInE(r) / a holding in custody.
evidence of the defendant’s mental L>F The suspect was in detention until
condition. one who plans and directs the his alibi could be checked.
fashioning of theatrical stage
depository settings, costumes, and ballet deteriorate
settings.
deprecate The designer outdid himself with deteriorated
the lavish sets for the new opera.
depressed detorsion
desinent
deprogram detrain
v desist
/ dGSprPTgram / detumescence
L + Gk > L despicableness
dissuade or try to dissuade from deuterium
convictions usually of a religious despondency
nature often with the use of force. development
Sharon’s parents hired a specialist desquamation
in cult psychology to deprogram deviance
her after her rescue from the destine
People’s Temple at Jonestown. v devil
/ SdestDn / v
derangement L / SdevEl /
direct and impel inescapably on a Gk > L > E
dereistic fixed course. chop (food) fine and mix with hot
The family’s money and ambition seasoning or sauce usually after
derisory seemed to destine each newborn cooking.
child to a career in politics. Georgia planned to devil a dozen
derogate hard-boiled eggs for the potluck.
destined
derringer v devilish
/ SdestDnd /
descamisado L>F>E devilment
preordained.
descensional Despite his birth, the Prince did not devote
believe he was destined to attain
deschampsia the throne. devotee
Page 38 of 153
devotion diamondback dilettante
devotions diaphoretic dilettantism

n pl
/ dDSvPshEnz / diaphragmatic diligent
L adj
prayers or service of worship diastolic / SdilEjEnt /
usually intended for private L>F>E
nonliturgical services. diatomic characterized by steady, earnest,
Jordan read a pamphlet of daily adj attentive, and energetic application
devotions while waiting for her / TdIEStBmik / and effort in a pursuit or study.
appointment with the pastor. Gk + Gk Despite his diligent study habits,
having two of the the smallest Horatio always panics at exam
devout particles of an element that enter time.
into the composition of molecules.
dewlappy Hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and dimensions
the halogens exist as diatomic
dexter molecules. dimer
adj n
/ SdekstE(r) / dibatag / SdImEr /
L Gk + Gk
being or relating to the side of a dibble a compound formed by the union of
heraldic shield at the right of the two molecules of a simpler
person wearing it. dice compound.
The coat of arms had, among other A molecule of acetic acid can form
things, a dexter motto. dichotomize a dimer with another acetic acid
molecule held together by two
dextranase dictamina hydrogen bonds.
dharma dictionary dimetrodon

n
dhole dietary / dISmetrETdBn /
n Gk
/ SdPl / differ a genus of North American Lower
Kanarese? Permian reptiles comprising
[has homonym: dole] a fierce wild differentiation terrestrial carnivores of moderate
dog of India that hunts in packs and size distinguished by a crest or
may attack even large fierce difficile dorsal sail.
animals (as the tiger). Dinosaur buff that she is, Amy
Because of the russet color of its diffidence insists upon being a dimetrodon for
coat, the dhole is often called the Halloween.
red dog. diffract
v dimidiation
diaconate / dDSfrakt /
L diminish
dialyzable break or separate (as light) into
parts. diminution
dialyzer In 1912 Max von Laue suggested n
that a crystal lattice should be able / TdimESn(y)VshEn /
diamagnetic to diffract X rays. L
adj the act, process, or an instance of
/ TdIETmagSneZik / digital diminishing : decrease.
Gk > ISVcf + Gk > L > F By controlling his appetite and
having negative magnetic dignitary exercising, Frank hoped to see a
susceptibility. diminution in his weight.
Atoms with an odd number of dilapidation
electrons cannot be diamagnetic. dimity
dilatoriness
diamantine dimple
Page 39 of 153
dinergate discerned disembowel
v v
dinette / dDSsErnd / / TdisDmSbAu(E)l /
L L+L+L>F>E
dinosaur sensed or came to know or take out the entrails of : eviscerate.
recognize mentally especially The tour of the meat packing plant
diopter something that is obscure. will not include the step where the
n Nancy’s quick eye soon discerned workers disembowel the animals.
/ dISBptEr / the rabbit’s nest in the long grass.
Gk disenable
a unit of measurement of the discerning v
refractive power of a lens equal to / TdisDSnCbEl /
the reciprocal of the focal length in discernment L+L+L
meters. deprive of a power, right, or
Barb’s optometrist had to explain discharge privilege.
what a diopter was before being Conviction of a felony will
able to convince her that she discinct disenable an American citizen of
needed reading glasses. the right to vote.
discipline
diorama disenchantment
disco
diplacusis disentomb
discography
diplegia disgregate
discomfit
dipsomania disguisable
n discophile
/ TdipsESmCnGE / disheartened
Gk + Gk discouraged v
an uncontrollable often periodic v / disShBrtFnd /
craving for alcoholic liquors. / dDSskErijd / L+E
The actor’s portrayal of the pain of F deprived of courage and hope :
dipsomania won him universal deprived of courage or confidence : discouraged, dejected.
accolades. disheartened, dejected. After a long drought the
Dad became discouraged when he disheartened farmer reluctantly
directory couldn’t figure out how to program decided to sell his land.
the VCR.
direful dishelm
discover
disadvantageous v disherison
/ dDSskEvE(r) /
disagio L>F>E dishoard
obtain for the first time sight or
disarmament knowledge of. dishrag
n “What you learn today, for no
/ disSBrmEmEnt / reason at all, will help you discover dishwasher
L>F all the wonderful secrets of
the laying aside or depriving of tomorrow.” disinfect
weapons; especially : the reduction discreet
of a military establishment to some disingenuous
minimum set by some specified discretionary adj
authority. / TdisDnSjenyEwEs /
The disarmament of the defeated L
aggressor nation must be complete. lacking in candor or frankness;
often : giving a false appearance of
disavow simple frankness.
The senator’s disingenuous
answers did not satisfy the press.
Page 40 of 153
disingenuously dissociative diva
adj n
dislike / dESsPs(h)GTCZiv / / SdGvE /
L L > It
dislimn of, relating to, or tending to cause the leading or the principal female
the process by which a chemical singer in an opera or concert
dislocated combination breaks up into simpler organization.
v constituents. The little-known diva became
/ Sdis(T)lPTkCZDd / The dissociative energy required to nationally famous after her
L+L break the bond between the atoms performance in La Boheme.
put out of place, as put (a body in a hydrogen molecule is much
part) out of order by moving a bone higher than that required to break divagation
away from its normal connections the bond between atoms in a
with another bone or other bones. chlorine molecule. divaricate
Becky dislocated her shoulder
when she took a bad fall off her dissolve divarication
bicycle.
dissuasive diverge
disoblige v
dissuasively / dDSvErj /
disparages L
dissymmetrical move or extend in different
disparaging directions from a common point.
distance Deep in the forest two dangerous
dispensable paths diverge from the main road.
distensible
dispensation diverticulitis
distillation
dispersing n divine
/ TdistESlCshEn / adj
dispossessed L / dDSvIn /
the process of driving off gas or L
disproportionate vapor from liquids or solids by of or relating to God : proceeding
v heating and condensing to liquid from God.
/ TdisprESpPrshETnCt / products. The Torah teaches that every
L The petroleum industry uses person must be treated with respect
subject a substance to distillation on a large scale to because all are created in the
transformation into two or more separate the various components of divine image.
dissimilar substances usually by a crude oil.
process involving simultaneous divinity
oxidation and reduction. distress
Heat will disproportionate divisible
hydrogen peroxide into water and distressed
oxygen. adj divot
/ dDSstrest /
dissection L>F>E divulgation
afflicted with trouble, pain, or grief.
dissemble When his factory burned down, the dobbin
distressed owner resolved to build
dissentience a new one. dockize
disuse dockwalloper
ditali docorticate
doctor
doctrinal
Page 41 of 153
docudrama dogmatician Doppler
n adj
/ SdBkyUTdrBmE / dogvane / SdBplE(r) /
L + Gk Austrian name
a drama for television, motion dogwatch of, relating to, or utilizing a shift in
pictures, or theater dealing freely frequency caused by motion
with historical events and dolabrate between the source of
especially those of a recent and electromagnetic waves and the
controversial nature. dolentissimo observer.
The docudrama deals with the trial In Doppler navigation the change
of a scientist accused of espionage. dolichoid of frequency of reflected radar
waves is used to give information
documentation dolichopodous on velocity and position.
dodecahedron dollar dormant
dodge dolomitic dormette
doe dome dormition
does domiciled dose

n pl
/ dPz / domiciliary dotage
E
[has homonym: doze] the females dominance dotal
especially when adult of any of the
various mammals of which the dominant dove
male is called “buck” (as most
deer, antelope, goat, rabbit, and domineer dowlas
rat). n
Bobby got three rabbits at Easter: dompt / SdaUlEs /
two does and a buck. F geog name > E
dompty a coarse linen cloth used widely in
dogdom the 16th and 17th centuries and
doneness manufactured originally in Brittany
dogleg n but later especially in northern
n / SdEnnDs / England and Scotland.
/ SdOgleg / E The long coat, typical of the period,
E + ON > E [has homonym: dunness] the was lined with dowlas.
a golf hole having an angled condition of being cooked to the
fairway that offers the player a desired degree. down
choice of following the fairway or Patrick checked the roast beef for n
risking a shot across the rough. doneness before serving it to his / SdaUn /
When he came to the dogleg, Doug guests. E
teed up to shoot across the rough. [Note: The definition provided is
donnishness not the one most commonly
dogma associated with this word.] an
n donor undulating generally treeless
/ SdOgmE / upland with sparse soil.
Gk doodling The shape of the horse carved in
a doctrine or body of doctrines of chalk on the down could be seen
theology and religion formally for miles.
stated and authoritatively
proclaimed by a church.
The dogma of papal infallibility
marks one of the greatest
differences between the Catholic
and Protestant churches.
Page 42 of 153
downbeat dramatization drilling
adj n n
/ SdaUnTbGt / / TdramEZESzCshEn / / SdriliN /
E+E Gk > L L>G>E
pessimistic, gloomy, unhappy. an act, process, or product of [Note: The definition provided is
Tom has just finished reading a rewriting or adapting a story or not the one most commonly
novel about downbeat characters in incident for theatrical presentation. associated with this word.] a strong
an urban slum area. The author was not at all pleased durable cotton fabric in twill weave
with the recent television made in various weights for
downhaul dramatization of his novel. clothing, interior decoration, and
industrial uses.
downstage drawshave Civil War tents were sometimes
made from drilling.
downstairs drawstring
drillmaster
dozen dream
n v drivage
/ SdEzFn / / SdrGm /
L>F>E E drollery
a group of 12. have ideas or images in the mind n
Carly packaged a dozen of her while asleep. / SdrPl(E)rG /
freshly baked cookies and took After the horror film, Carlo knew F
them to her next-door neighbor. he would dream about spiders all whimsical humor.
night. The writer’s anecdotes were noted
drab not so much for their hilarity as for
adj dreggy their charming drollery.
/ Sdrab /
Celt > L > F dressing drongo
of the lifeless color of drab cloth,
which is dull brown or gray. dribble droopy
The embroidered figures are now a v adj
faded drab color, a far cry from / SdribEl / / SdrVTpG /
their original red and green E? E
splendor. [has near homonym: drivel] propel gloomy, dejected.
and maintain control of (a ball or When feeling tired and droopy,
drachma puck) by successive slight taps or Sarah usually treats herself to
bounces with hand, foot, or stick. lunch at her favorite restaurant.
draggletailed The coach told Becky to dribble the
basketball up and down the court dropsical
dragnet without looking at it.
n droshky
/ SdragTnet / dribbler
ON > E + F drosometer
a network of measures for drifting
apprehension (as of criminals). adj dross
The state police set up a dragnet to / SdriftiN /
find the escaped convicts. E
disposed to move aimlessly.
drahthaar Drifting loners were rounded up as
suspects after the shooting.
drain
drill
dramalogue
dramaticule
dramatist
Page 43 of 153
drove dumplings duramen
n n pl
/ SdrPv / / SdEmpliNz / duroc
E E?
[Note: The definition provided is small masses of leavened dough dustblu
not the one most commonly cooked by boiling or steaming.
associated with this word.] a crowd Jutta insisted on finding a dustheap
or group of people especially when restaurant in Munich where they
acting, following, or moving in could eat dumplings. dutifully
concert or in a docile manner as if adv
in a herd. dun / Sd(y)VZDf(E)lG /
The drove of students heading to adj F > E + Ecff
the playground is participating in a / SdEn / in a manner having respect for
fire drill. E one’s own moral obligations.
[has homonym: done] having a Henrietta had dutifully memorized
drub dull, drab color. the poem the evening before.
The dun cloth was so unappealing
drugget to the eye that not one yard from dwindle
the bolt was sold.
drum dying
dunce
drumhead dynamometry
dungaree
dryasdust dynast
dunlin n
dubitable / SdITnast /
duo Gk
ducat n a ruler over a state; especially : a
/ Sd(y)V(T)P / hereditary ruler.
ductus L The dynast of Jordan is King
a group of two : pair. Abdullah.
dudelsack The Penguin frequently referred to
Batman and Robin as “the dynamic dynastic
duel duo” in the television series.
n dysergia
/ Sd(y)VEl / duodecennial
L dyslogia
[has homonym: dual] a duodenal
prearranged formal combat with dysphonia
deadly weapons fought between duodenum n
two persons in the presence of / dDSsfPnGE /
witnesses usually as a result of an duple Gk
injury done or an insult given by adj impairment of the voice manifested
one to the other. / Sd(y)VpEl / by hoarseness or other defects of
Alexander Hamilton, first secretary L phonation due to organic,
of the Treasury of the United in music : having two or a multiple functional, or psychic causes.
States, was killed in a duel with of two beats per measure. Mark is a speech therapist
Aaron Burr. Marches are written in duple time. specializing in the treatment of
dysphonia.
dummel duplex
n dysproteinemia
/ Sd(y)VTpleks /
L
something having two parts or
elements (as a two-family house).
Kelly and her family live in one
part of the duplex; her
grandparents live in the other part.
Page 44 of 153
eagerly eclat edifices
adv n pl
/ SGgE(r)lG / econometrics / SedEfDsEs /
E L
with urgent desire or enthusiasm. economics buildings; especially : large or
His thoughts darted eagerly about n pl massive structures (as churches or
as everything looked new—and / TekESnBmiks / government buildings).
worth trying. Gk > L Among the most beautiful edifices
a social science that studies the in our nation’s capital is the
earage production, distribution, and National Cathedral.
consumption of commodities.
earrings Melissa signed up for economics in edifyingly
hopes that she would learn more
earthly about what causes a recession. editress
adj
/ SErJlG / ecosphere edulcoration
E
relating to actual human life on ecosystem eelpout
Earth : realistic, factual, worldly. n
Richard’s earthly concerns about / SekPTsistDm / effaceable
his checkbook put a damper on his Gk
dreams. an ecological community effectively
considered together with the
easement nonliving factors of its environment effigiate
as a unit.
easiness The fact that his diesel tank was an effigurate
ecosystem in itself came home to
eatage Ray when the algae clogged fuel effuse
n filter after fuel filter. v
/ SGZij / / eSfyVz /
E ecrus L
right of using grassland for flow out : emanate.
pasturage. ecstasize Christy was not surprised to see
Mr. Bosco granted eatage to his hostility and criticism effuse from
neighbor, Farmer Voss. ectasis the defeated candidate.
ebbet ecthlipsis effusion

n
/ SebDt / ectomorph egotism
E
the common green newt of the ectophagous egotist
eastern United States.
On a hike through Everglades ectopic egueiite
National Park, Joey pointed out a
small ebbet sitting on a rock. ecumene eidolon
ebonize ecumenicalism eigenvector

v
/ SebETnIz / eddyroot eight
Gk > L > E + Ecf n adj
make black or stain black in / SedGTrVt / / SCt /
imitation of ebony. Afr > E E
Garth used shoe polish in one of a plant of the Pacific islands that is [has homonym: ate] being one
his many attempts to ebonize the grown throughout the tropics for its more than seven in number.
figurine. edible starchy tuberous rootstocks. Nan didn’t learn the facts about
Eddyroot can be made into poi, a Santa Claus until she was eight
echoes thin, pasty mass of fermented taro years old.
starch.
echopraxia either
Page 45 of 153
eject eleven embalmment
adj n
elan / DSlevEn / / DmSbBmmEnt /
E F > E + Ecf
elastic being one more than ten in number. the act or process of preparing a
adj If a football team has more than body for burial by injecting into the
/ DSlastik / eleven players on the field when the arterial system and body cavities a
Gk > L ball is snapped, the team receives a preservative and disinfectant fluid
capable of recovering size and penalty. (as a solution of formaldehyde).
shape after deformation. Because the bodies of the
Even the dog got a Christmas gift, elf earthquake victims were going to
an elastic rubber toy. be cremated, there was no need for
elfin embalmment.
elation
eliminable embattled
elbow adj v
/ DSlimEnEbEl / / DmSbaZEld /
election L F>E
capable of being removed or made strong : strengthened, as
electrochemical excluded. furnished with resistant power.
adj It seems that the more eliminable Surrounded by a stone wall, the
/ DSlektrPTkemDkEl / political candidates are those who embattled fortress survived the
Gk + Gk spend less on their campaigns. attack.
of or relating to the science dealing
with the relation of electricity to elitism embellished
chemical changes.
Mr. Thorvald explained that the elliptical embellisher
order of elements in the
electrochemical series shows their elliptically embezzle
tendency to displace the ions of
other elements in the series. elocutionist embolize
electrocution elongated embolus

n
/ DTlektrESkyVshEn / else embrace
Gk > L
the act of killing or putting to death elsewhither embraceable
by electric current. adv
In 1890 New York became the first / Sel(t)sThwiLE(r) / emcee
state to execute criminals by E
electrocution. to some or any other place in a emendation
different direction or toward a n
electrograph different objective. / (T)GTmenSdCshEn /
n Marcus never missed a day of work L
/ DSlektrETgraf / in the factory, but his soul was [Note: The base of this word could
Gk aimed elsewhither. be confused with amend.] the word
a device used for the etching or or the matter substituted for
transfer of pictures or designs by elucidative incorrect or unsuitable matter in a
electrolytic means. work that has been altered.
An electrograph was used to elutriate There was at least one emendation
transfer the picture onto a metal written in the margin of every page
plate for printing. elysian in the manuscript.
electrolier emaciate emerge
elegiambus emanate emetic
emancipate emigrate
Page 46 of 153
emigration enact energy
n v
/ TemESgrCshEn / / DSnakt / enfeeble
L L>E+L>E
[has near homonym: immigration] make into a law; especially : enforce
departure from a place of abode, perform the last aspect of
natural home, or country for life or legislation upon (a bill) that gives enfrancishe
residence elsewhere. the validity of law.
Sylvia never tired of hearing about Today’s vote will, in all engage
her great-grandparents’ emigration probability, enact the bill.
from Poland. engastrimythic
enalid
emmeleia n engineering
n / SenFlDd / n
/ TemESlIE / Gk + ISV / TenjESniriN /
Gk [has near homonym: annelid] a F>E
a solemn and stately dance used in submerged marine plant. the science by which the properties
ancient Greek tragedy. Eelgrass is a common enalid found of matter and the sources of energy
The dancers performed the along the North Atlantic coast. in nature are made useful in
emmeleia with grave mournful structures, machines, and products.
gestures. enchytrae Terry is studying engineering and
has a special interest in the branch
emotional encircle concerned with the production of
tools, machinery, and their
empathize encroach products.
emphasis encryption enginery
empiricist endlessly enigma
empower endocrine enjambed

v adj
/ DmSpAu(E)r / endosteal / DnSjamd /
L > Ecf + L > F > E F
give faculties or abilities to : endothermic marked or characterized by the
enable. adj continuation in prosody of the
The teacher frequently tells her / SendETJErmik / sense in a phrase beyond the end of
students that a good education will Gk + Gk a verse or couplet.
empower them to be whatever they characterized by or formed with Haroldur’s analysis of the
wish to be. absorption of heat. enjambed lines was enlightening.
The decomposition of mercury
empty oxide at high temperature is an enlightened
adj example of an endothermic adj
/ Sem(p)tG / process. / DnSlItFnd /
E L + E + Ecff
containing nothing. endothermy freed from ignorance and
An empty box in the corner was a misinformation.
perfect place to keep Rowena’s new endysis The professors claimed to be an
ferret. enlightened group of individuals.
enepidermic
emulsifier adj
/ TenTepESdErmik /
emulsion Gk + Gk + Gk
applied to the unbroken skin for
enable medicinal purposes.
Dan feared that he would have to
get an injection when it became
obvious that the enepidermic
medication was not curing his rash.
Page 47 of 153
enorganic epidemiology erraticism
adj n
/ TenO(r)Sganik / / TepETdGmGSBlEjG / erratum
Gk + Gk Gk
[Note: Could be confused with a science that deals with the erring
inorganic.] arising within or incidence, distribution, and control
inherent in the organism : intrinsic. of disease in a population (as of erstwhile
Ian tried to write an essay animals or plants). adj
describing the difference between Sean’s knowledge about polio and / SErstThwIl /
enculturated and enorganic forms the history of the Salk vaccine E+E
of ignorance. reflects his strong interest in having been at some past time.
epidemiology. John recognized his erstwhile gym
enormity teacher as the runner leading the
epigraphic pack in the Boston Marathon.
ensiform
epilogue erysipelas
ensigncy
episcopate erythromycin
enslave
episematic esbat
ensorcellment
epulation escape
entangle
epuration escapist
enterprise
epure escheat
enterprising
equal escort
entity
equally esemplastic
entoleter
equanimous espagnole
entrada n
equestriennes / TespEnSyPl /
enunciation F
equipluve [has near homonym: Spanish word
envelop Español] a foundation sauce made
equus of stock thickened with flour
enveloping browned in fat with added
erbium seasonings to taste.
envisaged David’s steak came with a
eremitical tarragon-flavored espagnole.
envy
erethism esperanto
enzymology
ergo espouse
epanorthosis
ergophobe essentialist
epaulement n
/ SergETfPb / establishment
epideictic Gk + Gk n
one suffering from fear of or / DSstablishmEnt /
aversion to work. L>F>E
Willy, a self-proclaimed couch the act of bringing into existence,
potato, claims to be an ergophobe. creating, founding, or setting up.
The establishment of the
ericetal Environmental Protection Agency
has brought many advantages but
erosive also a good deal of controversy.
Page 48 of 153
eunomy evolutive
estancia
euphonize evolvement
ester
n eurodollar evulgate
/ SestE(r) /
G europium ewery
[has homonym: Esther] any of a
class of compounds that are usually euryene exacerbated
fragrant liquids if sufficiently
volatile, several of which are found Euterpean exacting
in essential oils and synthesized adj adj
especially for use in artificial fruit / yVStErpGEn / / igSzaktiN /
essences. Gk name L + Ecf
Scientists have identified the ester relating to the muse Euterpe or to tryingly or unremittingly severe in
that is responsible for the aroma of music. making demands or requiring the
pineapples. Shana had a wave of Euterpean fulfilling of obligations.
inspiration and wrote the lyrics to Trudy’s exacting standards for
estoque five songs in one evening. herself were never fully met.
estufa evangelary exactly
etamine evangelical exalt
eternity evangelize exaugural
ethanol evaporate excellence

n v
/ SeJETnOl / / DSvapETrCt / excellency
ISV L
a colorless volatile flammable undergo conversion from a liquid excellent
liquid formed by fermentation. state into a gas.
Breath analyzers subject ethanol to As liquid in a closed jar begins to excitability
an orange yellow substance that evaporate, molecules move from
changes into a green substance liquid to vapor. excitement
depending on how much ethanol is
present. even exclude
adj
ethereality / SGvEn / exculpated
E
ethnography being any member of a sequence of exculpatory
positive integers beginning with
ethnology two and counting by twos : being excursus
always exactly divisible by two. n
ethnozoology When an even number is multiplied / ikSskErsEs /
by either an even number or an odd L
ethology number, the result is always an an incidental discussion.
n even number. While editing the manuscript,
/ eSthBlEjG / Gloria turned a long excursus into
Gk + Gk evensong a short footnote.
a scientific study of animal
behavior. eventful excuse
Jane’s desire to save endangered
animals led her to take several eveque execration
courses in ethology.
evergreen
etiolate
everlasting
eulittoral
Page 49 of 153
execution expansive exquisitely
n adj
/ TeksESkyVshEn / / ikSspan(t)siv / exsiccosis
L L + Ecf n
a putting to death as a legal penalty. having considerable extent. / TeksDSkPsDs /
In some states, murder of a police The lecturers were directed to L
officer is punishable by execution. choose expansive topics of broad insufficient intake of fluids or the
interest. state of bodily dehydration
exemplar produced thereby.
expatiation During their desert survival course,
exequy the Marines learned how to avoid
expense exsiccosis.
exercitant
expertness extant
exeunt adj
explanans / SekstEnt /
exhilarative L
explodent [has near homonym: extent]
exile currently or actually in existence.
exploiting Some scientists believe that they
existentialism can use cloning to bring back
exponentiation creatures that are no longer extant.
exobiology
n exposition extenuating
/ Tek(T)sP(T)bISBlEjG / n
Gk / TekspESzishEn / exterior
a branch of the science of life L
concerned with the search for life a part of a composition (as of music extinction
outside Earth and its atmosphere or drama) in which the theme or
and with the effects of subject is presented. extrapolation
extraterrestrial environments on The first movement begins with a
living organisms. lively exposition of the theme that is extremely
Many of NASA’s programs in repeated several times throughout
exobiology have focused on life on the symphony. exult
Mars.
expository exultation
exodus
expostulation exultet
exorcist
expressionism exurb
exothermally n
adv / ikSspreshETnizEm / exurbia
/ SeksPTJErmElG / L
Gk a theory or practice of presenting eyeleteer
in a manner characterized by or the subjective or subconscious
formed with evolution of heat. thoughts and emotions of fabian
When a bombardier beetle squeezes characters, the struggle of abstract
a gland in its abdomen, it releases forces, or the inner realities of life fabula
a solution that reacts exothermally by techniques that include
with an enzyme to produce an abstraction, distortion, and fabulous
audible detonation and discharge. symbolism.
Dramatic lighting and distorted facedown
expand images exemplified expressionism
in early black-and-white movies. facient
expromissor facilities
expugnable factionary
Page 50 of 153
faddish fasting feijoada
n
fagin / SfastiN / feis
E n
faith the act of abstaining from food / Sfesh /
especially for an unusual time and IrGael
fajitas often as a form of religious an Irish folk festival featuring
n pl observance or for therapeutic games and competitions and
/ fEShGtEz / purposes. usually traditional Irish music and
AmerSp Bernadette hoped to reach a new dancing.
marinated strips of beef or chicken communion with God through Kelly and Heather performed
or sometimes shrimp grilled or regular prayer and occasional dances in the feis sponsored by the
broiled and served usually with a fasting. Irish-American Club.
flour tortilla and various savory
fillings (as sautéed peppers, fathogram feisty
guacamole, and sour cream).
Joshua made a special dinner of fatiguingly fellow
chicken fajitas for his Spanish n
tutor. fatuity / Sfe(T)lP /
ON > E
fakement fauces [has homonym: felloe] a graduate
student in an American university
falcula faulknerian who is granted money to continue
research usually in preparation for
fallaciousness faunizone an advanced degree and often with
certain teaching duties.
fallible fauteuil Robert, a senior fellow at the
University of Pennsylvania, will be
falsification fauvism the first speaker at the symposium.
famous faviform felonry
fanaticize fawningly fender
fancification fearful fermium

adj
fancy / Sfi(E)rfEl / fern
E
fandangle full of fear, alarm, awe, concern, or ferreous
apprehension.
fanlight When surgery was advised, the ferreter
fearful patient decided to seek a
fanon second opinion. ferric
adj
faradize fearfully / Sferik /
L
farmyard fearless of, relating to, or containing iron.
Amy’s report on the uses of iron
farsighted feather included a section on ferric
chloride, which is used in treating
farthing featurette industrial wastes and in etching,
among other things.
fascicled fedelini
ferritize
federate
ferrochromium
feebly
ferromagnetism
feedback
Page 51 of 153
ferruginous fiercest final
adj adj
fester / Sfi(E)rsDst / / SfInFl /
L>F>E L
festooned marked by the most furious not to be altered or undone.
unrestrained zeal or vehemence. After making what she thought was
fetching The newspaper editor became the her final decision about buying a
mayor’s fiercest critic. car, Sheila was bombarded with
fetlock new information.
fieriness
fever finch
fiesta
few n finery
pron pl / fGSestE /
/ SfyV / L > Sp fingerprint
E festival.
[has homonyms: feu, phew] not The fiesta was held under the stars. finickiness
many persons or things.
Few of the claims in the fifteen finitism
advertisement are true.
fifth fireman
fewer adj
/ Sfif(t)th / firing
fewness E adj
being number five in a countable / SfI(E)rN /
fiacre series. E
Middle school starts with the fifth of or relating to the operation or
fibranne grade in many school systems. operating parts of a firearm.
The firing mechanism on Tsuki’s
fibrocitis fiftieth gun kept jamming.
fibrocystic file firm

adj
fickle filiciform / SfErm /
L>F>E
fid filigree securely or solidly fixed in place.
The gate and its pillars were firm,
fiddlehead fillister but at one side the fence had fallen
n when a tree fell on it.
/ SfidFlThed / filmscript
L? > E + E n firman
one of the young unfurling fronds / SfilmTskript /
of certain ferns that are often eaten E+L firth
as greens. a written text for a motion picture.
Justin refused to try a fiddlehead The actor read every word of the fishgig
until he saw how much his sister filmscript before signing a contract n
loved them. to play the leading role. / SfishTgig /
E
fiducial filmy [Note: Could be confused with
fizgig.] a fish spear having two or
fiduciarily filter more barbed prongs.
Corinne found a rusty fishgig on
fieldpiece filthy the beach.
fiend
Page 52 of 153
fishy flannelly flock
adj n
/ SfishG / flare / SflBk /
E E
of or relating to a fish. flareback a company of domestic mammals
A fishy odor emanated from the bag (as sheep or goats) herded together.
in the trunk. flashback The Christmas card portrayed a
n shepherd watching over a flock of
fitful / SflashTbak / sheep.
E+E
fixation an instance of a literary or floe
n theatrical technique used especially n
/ fikSsCshEn / in motion pictures and television / SflP /
L>E that involves interruption of the ON > Norw
the conversion of free nitrogen into chronological sequence of events [has homonym: flow] floating ice
combined forms useful as such or by interjection of events or scenes formed in a large sheet on the
as starting materials for fertilizers, of earlier occurrence. surface of the sea or other body of
explosives, and a variety of The movie used a flashback to show water.
chemicals. the early family life of the main Jagged sections of floe around the
Fixation of nitrogen dioxide can character. tanker suddenly joined, trapping
occur in an electric arc from the vessel in a sea of solid ice.
nitrogen and oxygen in the air. flashlight
floggable
flabbergastingly flatter
floodlight
flabby flavescence n
/ SflEdTlIt /
flaccid flaxier E+E
adj artificial illumination in a broad
/ SflaksDd / flaxseed beam; also : a source of such
L illumination.
yielding to pressure for want of fleeceable As the cast came out for a curtain
firmness and stiffness : flabby. call, a floodlight brightened the
Joe looked at his flaccid muscles in fleer stage.
the mirror and vowed to join a
health club. fleshpot flora
n
flaccidity flickery / SflPrE /
n L
/ flakSsidEZG / flightily plant life : plants.
L The flora of South Carolina
the quality or state of yielding to flimsiness includes the palmetto, which is a
pressure for want of firmness and significant feature of the state’s
stiffness. flintlock flag.
As George entered his forties, he
found that he had to exercise flinty florentine
regularly to combat muscular adj
flaccidity. / SflintG / florulent
E
flacon harsh and unyielding : rigorous and flounce
stern.
flagellation The senator’s flinty character stood fluctuate
him in good stead on the finance
flaith committee. fluent
flameout flirtatious fluidity
flanger flixweed
Page 53 of 153
flunk fomented foreman
v
/ SflENk / font forename
(D or Norw&Danish + F)?
fail. foolproof forenoon
Evan fears that he will flunk his
final exam in chemistry. footcandles foreshorten
n pl
fluoride / SfUtTkandFlz / foresighted
n E+L>E
/ SflU(E)TrId / units of illuminance each equal to forestaysail
L > ISV + G&F > ISVcf the illuminance on a surface that is
a binary compound of fluorine everywhere 1 foot from a uniform forestry
usually with a more electropositive point source of light of one candle n
element or radical. and equal to 1 lumen per square / SfOrDstrG /
Free molecules of fluoride can be foot. L>F>E
formed by electrolysis of an An office or classroom usually a science of developing, caring for,
aqueous fluoride solution. requires about 70 footcandles; by or cultivating tracts of wooded land
comparison, direct sunlight at noon : the management of growing
fluoroscopic is about 1,000 footcandles. timber.
The pulp and paper mill wishes to
flurriment footlight hire an individual with a master’s
degree in forestry.
flute footnote
forgetive
flutterboard footslogger
forgive
fluvicoline footwork
n forlornness
flypaper / SfUtTwErk /
n E+E format
/ SflITpCpEr / the management of the feet and the
E + Gk > L > F > E work done with them, as in dancing forsaken
paper coated with a sticky or sports. adj
substance for killing flies. The star of the soccer team takes a / fE(r)SsCkEn /
David put the flypaper just outside ballet lesson every week to improve E
the screen door, hoping to catch his footwork. left desolate or empty.
insects before they got into the The forsaken town had
house. foramen tumbleweeds growing on Main
Street and the dust was inches deep
foggara forebitt in the buildings.
fogyism foreboding forte
foliageous forefront forthright
folklore foreganger fortify
folktale forehoof fortnight

n
folly forelegs / SfPrtTnIt /
n n pl E
/ SfBlG / / SfOrTlegz / the space of 14 days : two weeks.
F>E E Lewis had hoped to stay at the
a thoughtless act or irrational idea. any of the front legs of an insect. lodge for a fortnight, but he had to
His scheme was the despairing In worker bees the hairs of the return early.
folly of a powerful man who cannot forelegs are used to brush pollen
bear to grow old. from flowers. fortnightly
Page 54 of 153
forty framer Friday
adj n
/ SfOrZG / framework / SfrI(T)dC /
E E
being one more than 39 in number. francium the day following Thursday.
Mrs. Langdon spent the morning in Teachers, as well as students, often
tears the day she turned forty years francolin count the days to Friday.
old.
frangipane frigate
fossiliferous
frankenstein frigorimeter
fosterage
frantic frippery
fought
frap friskiness
foundling
fratority frog
fourrier n
fratricide / SfrOg /
fourscore E
adj freeloading [Note: The definition provided is
/ SfP(E)rTskP(E)r / not the one most commonly
E freewheeler associated with this word. In
being 80 in number. addition, speller might confuse
Granny declared that she would frenetic with homonym frage.] a card game
wear purple whenever she so developed from tarok and popular
desired, now that she was fourscore fresh especially in Mexico.
years old. adj Pablo and Lucita played a couple
/ Sfresh / of hands of frog before lunch.
fourteen E
adj [Note: The definition provided is fronds
/ fP(E)r(t)StGn / not the one most commonly n pl
E associated with this word.] / SfrBndz /
being one more than 13 in number. disposed to take liberties : saucy, L
Many of the Scripps Howard impudent, rude. [has near homonym: frons] fern
National Spelling Bee finalists are Mr. Broyles warned Walter not to leaves.
fourteen years old. be so fresh. The goldfish seem to prefer staying
away from the waving fronds in the
foxhound fret pond.
v
foxing / Sfret / frontal
n E
/ SfBksiN / become vexed, worried, impatient, frontenis
E or irritated.
discoloration; especially : brownish Many parents fret over the high frore
spots in the paper of old books. cost of feeding their families.
Faded print and foxing made the frostbite
old books in the attic very difficult friar
to read. n frostily
/ SfrI(E)r /
foxy L>F>E frothily
[has homonym: fryer] a member of
foyer a mendicant order. frothy
The Mediterranean monk seal is so
fractiously named because its dark brown coat frotton
resembles the brown robe of a
fragilely Franciscan friar. frowner
fragmentation friary frozen
Page 55 of 153
fructiferous funk gadroon
n n
fructify / SfEnk / / gESdrVn /
L>F F
frustrated a strong offensive smell. an ornament produced by notching
adj The sailors could barely breath or carving a rounded molding.
/ SfrETstrCZDd / below deck because of the funk Lucy examined the intricate
L from tobacco smoke. gadroon on the entry door.
filled with a deep chronic sense of
insecurity, discouragement, and furbish gaelicize
dissatisfaction.
Many workers feel frustrated furious gaffe
because they do not have the
opportunity to use their talents in furrier gaga
their jobs.
furrow gagman
fugleman
furry gainer
fulsomely
adv furtum gainful
/ SfUlsEmlG /
E fuseplug gala
copiously, abundantly. adj
Max was lunching in the cafeteria, fusibility / SgClE /
devouring a fulsomely garnished F > It
cheeseburger. fusiform belonging to, deserving, or attended
adj by festivities.
fumy / SfyVzETfOrm / The king declared that there would
adj L+L be parades through every city in
/ SfyVmG / shaped like a spindle : tapering the land and a gala carnival of
L>F>E toward each end. three days’ duration.
producing or full of gaseous Fusiform rust, a common disease of
emissions that are usually odorous loblolly pine trees, causes rod- galactia
and sometimes noxious. shaped cankers to develop on the
Vera’s eyes started to water from branches. galeate
the fumy ammonia she was using to
clean the floor. fustanella galeiform
functionary fusty gallium
funereal futile galloper

adj
/ fyVSnirGEl / futtock galoot
L
befitting or suggesting a funeral : futuramic galop
oppressively solemn. n
Ben and Trish enjoyed their elegant fylfot / SgalEp /
meal at the posh restaurant, but the F
piped-in music was too funereal for gabardine [has homonym: gallop] a lively
their mood. dance in duple time performed with
gabbroid sliding steps from side to side and
funereally popular in the 19th century.
gadfly The galop was introduced into
England in 1829 at a ball given by
gadget the king.
gadoid galvanneal
gadolinium gambusia
Page 56 of 153
gamete garbology gearing
n
gammoned / gBrSbBlEjG / gehlenite
Gmc > F + Gk
ganache the study of modern culture geistlich
through the analysis of what is
gander thrown away as garbage or trash. gelastic
The city’s landfill known as Mount
gandhian Trashmore will be a treasure trove gelidity
to future generations of students of
gang garbology. gematriot
n
/ SgaN / garcon gemellion
E
a group of persons working under gardener gemmiparous
the same direction or at the same
task. garlic gender
The movie was about an escape n
from prison by a member of a chain garret / SjendE(r) /
gang. L>F>E
garter any of two or more subclasses
gangling n within a grammatical class of a
/ SgBrZEr / language that determine agreement
gangplank Celt > F > E with and selection of other words
[has homonym: guarder] a circular or grammatical forms.
gangster band of elastic with or without a In Latin each noun is considered
n fastener worn to hold up a stocking masculine, feminine, or neuter, and
/ SgaNztE(r) / or sock. every adjective must change its
E The bride’s grandmother presented form to match the gender of the
a member of a gang of criminals. her with the traditional lucky noun that it modifies.
The actor won an award for his garter to wear on her wedding day.
portrayal of a Chicago gangster. gene
gastroenterology n
gaper n / SjGn /
/ Tga(T)strPTentErSBlEjG / Gk > G
garageman Gk [has homonym: jean] one of the
the study of the stomach and the elements of the germ plasm serving
garb intestines especially in respect to as specific transmitters of
n their diseases and pathology. hereditary characters.
/ SgBrb / It took no expert in Blue eyes are caused by a recessive
It or F gastroenterology to deduce that gene.
style of apparel : costume. Jeffrey was suffering from food
Mrs. Whatsit appeared in her poisoning. generally
familiar wild garb of shawls and
scarves and the old tramp’s coat gauntlet generate
and hat. v
gauss / SjenETrCt /
garbled n L
/ SgaUs / cause to be : bring into existence.
G name Claude’s speech about patriotism
the centimeter-gram-second was actually intended to generate
electromagnetic unit of magnetic money for the Olympic teams.
induction.
While looking at the exhibits at the geniality
science fair, Linda learned that the
gauss is a unit of measurement genocidal
associated with magnetism.
genoise
gazette
Page 57 of 153
genteelly geosynchronous giaour
adj n
gentle / TjGPSsiNkrEnEs / / SjaU(E)r /
adj Gk + Gk + Gk Per > Turkish
/ SjentFl / of or relating to an artificial one outside the Muslim faith :
L satellite that travels from west to infidel.
benignly gracious or kind in east above the equator and at the The coffee house posted a sign
manner : not harsh or stern : mild. same angular velocity as that of warning that no giaour would be
The psychiatrist maintained a Earth so that the satellite seems to admitted.
gentle and patient demeanor while remain in the same place.
probing for the source of the Satellites that handle telephone gibber
orphan’s paranoia. calls and television signals are in
geosynchronous orbits above gibberellin
gentrification Earth.
gills
gentry geotropism n pl
n / Sgilz /
/ SjentrG / geratology Scand > E
L>F>E organs for obtaining oxygen from
upper or ruling class : aristocracy. germanium water.
During the worst days of the Some water insects breathe by
French Revolution, the gentry all germiparity means of gills.
feared for their lives.
Geronimo gimlet
genuinely interj
/ jDSrBnETmP / gingival
genuineness Apache name
—used as a battle cry by gingivectomy
geode paratroopers typically at the
n moment of jumping. girasol
/ SjGTPd / Alex’s “Geronimo” trailed off as
Gk he fell toward the earth. giustamente
a nodule of stone having a cavity
lined with crystals or mineral gesso glabella
matter.
Jimmy bought a geode for a dollar gestalt glaciolacustrine
in Cerillos, New Mexico. n
/ gESs(h)tBlt / glacis
geogen G
a structure of physical, biological, gladiolus
geogenous or psychological phenomena so
integrated as to constitute a gladsome
geoglyphic functional unit with properties not adj
derivable from its parts in / SgladTsEm /
geomalism summation. E + Ecf
Lieutenant Henry’s many made happy : filled with joy.
georgic experiences as a prisoner of war The gladsome audience wildly
formed a gestalt from which he may applauded the pianist’s
geoscopy never recover. performance.
gewgawry glairy
ghoulie
Page 58 of 153
glassily glistened glycerol
adv v n
/ SglasDlG / / SglisFnd / / SglisETrOl /
E E Gk > F > ISV
in a manner resembling or shined brightly usually by a sweet syrupy alcohol that is used
suggestive of glass. reflection with a sparkling chiefly as a solvent and plasticizer
The surface of the lake glassily radiance. and as a moistening agent,
reflected the sky. The beaches glistened with smooth emollient, and lubricant.
stones and sea foam. The high viscosity of glycerol is
glasswort related to its molecules’ tendency
glitterati to become entangled as they slip
glaucescence past one another.
gloam
glaucescent glycogenesis
global
glaucomatous glyptography
gloomy
glaucope gnarl
glorify
gleamy gnats
gloss n pl
gleeful / Snats /
adj glossarial E
/ SglGfEl / various small two-winged flies.
E glossematician Hundreds of gnats hovered over the
exuberantly or exultantly joyful. basket of peaches.
The villain turned fiendishly gleeful glosseme
when the hero fell into his trap. gnaw
glossopyrosis
glen gnawingly
n glottology
/ Sglen / n gnomish
ScotGael > E / glBStBlEjG /
a secluded narrow valley. Gk gnomonic
The hikers pointed to a distant glen the study of human speech in its
and agreed it was a perfect place to various aspects (as the structure of gnosis
set up camp. a language including such factors n
as phonetics, accent, syntax, / SnPsDs /
glide semantics, grammar, and the Gk
v relation between writing and the act or process of cognition or
/ SglId / speech). knowing.
E Glottology is more frequently The most difficult philosopher to
move smoothly, continuously, and referred to as “linguistics.” follow was the one who insisted
effortlessly. gluhwein that human beings invent
Larry sharpened his skates to help knowledge and that true gnosis is
them glide over the ice. glum impossible.
adj
gliding / SglEm / gnosticism
E
glisten dismal, dreary, or gloomy. gnotobiotics
After receiving their report cards,
more than a few students went goatsucker
home glum.
gobbler
gluttonous
goby
gluttony
godet
glycerinate
Page 59 of 153
goitrogenesis gospel grain
n n
gold / SgBspEl / / SgrCn /
E L>F>E
goldbrick the teachings of Jesus and the [Note: The definition provided is
apostles as a body or system : the not the one most commonly
goldsmith Christian faith, revelation, or associated with this word.] a unit of
dispensation. weight based on the weight of a
gong The New Testament describes how grain of wheat taken as an average
the apostles traveled and preached of the weight of grains from the
goniometer the gospel. middle of the ear and equal to
0.0648 gram.
goniometry gossipmonger Janine wondered what item could
n be so valuable that it was measured
goniostat / SgBsDpTmBNgE(r) / with a unit as small as a grain.
E + Gk > L > E
goodish a person who habitually relates in graminaceous
adj detail facts, rumors, or behind-the-
/ SgUdish / scenes information of an intimate, grammatolatry
E personal, or sensational nature.
moderately good. Riley was eager to find out if grandpaternal
Pedro tasted the goodish white rumors about his company’s
wine and sighed for his native financial troubles were true but grandrelle
Spain. was worried about looking like a
gossipmonger. granjeno
goodly
gossipred granola
goofy
gossipry granules
googol
n gossipy grapevine
/ SgVTgOl / n
coined word gothamite / SgrCpTvIn /
the figure 1 followed by 100 zeroes Gmc > F > E + L > F > E
equal to a number that is ten to the governance a sidewise waltz step in which one
100th power. foot keeps crossing first before and
In January 1997, astronomers Fred grabbots then behind the other.
Adams and Gregory Laughlin The grapevine migrated into
predicted that the universe would grabby ballroom dancing from folk
end in a number of years equal to dancing.
approximately one googol. graben
graphite
gooiest graceful
graphitic
goombay graciosity
graphology
goonch gracious
graphometry
goondie gradgrind
grappa
gooseherd graft
v grapple
gordian / Sgraft /
adj E grapples
/ SgO(r)dGEn / [has homonym: graphed] implant
Phrygian name living tissue so as to form an grate
intricate, complicated. organic union.
No puzzle was too gordian for The doctors will graft skin to gratine
Evan. minimize Luther’s burn scar.
Page 60 of 153
gravimetric gringo grumbling
adj n v
/ SgravETmetrik / / SgriN(T)gP / / SgrEmb(E)liN /
L + Gk L > Sp D>F
of, involving, or relating to a white foreigner in Spain or Latin expressing dissatisfaction in a low
measurement by weight. America especially when of harsh voice and surly manner.
Sarai used gravimetric analysis to English or American origin. The class started grumbling when
help identify the unknown chemical Even though he is 100% Spanish, Mrs. Griffin announced a pop quiz.
in solution. Diego is sometimes called a
“gringo” because he has blonde grumpy
gravitation hair. adj
/ SgrEmpG /
graziery griseous E
moodily cross : surly, ill-humored.
grease grist The new cashier was trained in
n ways to deal with grumpy
greed / Sgrist / customers.
E
greedily [Note: The definition provided is grungy
gridlock associated with this word.] a large guardrail
n quantity : lot.
/ SgridTlBk / Aunt Bea exclaimed that she had guasa
E+E never seen “such a grist of washing
a traffic jam in which an for three people.” gueridon
intersection is so completely grog
congested that no vehicular guester
movement is possible. grogram
Gridlock can present a real danger guesthouse
to public safety by hindering grommets
emergency vehicles. guimpe
groom
grim guineas
adj groomsman
/ Sgrim / guiro
E groover n
stern or forbidding in action or / S(g)wG(T)rP /
appearance. groovy Taino > Sp
Grim security guards were a percussion instrument of Latin
stationed at each door of the bank. grotesquely American origin made of a serrated
gourd and played by scraping a
grimacing grouch stick along its surface.
Mrs. Turner’s fourth grade class
grinder growing gave an all-percussion recital that
featured a solo on the guiro.
grinding growl
adj guitguit
/ SgrIndiN / gruff
E adj gujerat
excruciating, agonizing. / SgrEf /
Obadiah took pain-killers for the D gullet
grinding pain of his injury. rough or stern in manner, speech,
or aspect. gunk
grindstone Although the teacher had a gruff
exterior, she was kind and gunnel
understanding.
gunnery
gunsmithy
Page 61 of 153
gurnard hafiz halide
n n
gust / ShBfDz / / ShaTlId /
v Ar Gk + ISVcf
/ SgEst / [Note: Could be confused with a binary compound of a halogen
ON? plural form hafis.] a Muslim who with a more electropositive element
blow or move in sudden bursts. knows the Koran by heart—used as or radical.
Tonya feared the wind would gust a title of respect. By combining with hydrogen, an
so fiercely that it would uproot her Hafiz Mehmet can quote an atom of fluorine forms a hydrogen
new sapling. appropriate verse from the Koran halide.
for every occasion.
gutsy hallelujah
haggadist
guttersnipe hallucinate
hagiology
guttiferous halo
hagride
gynecologic halterbreak
hailstone
gynecomorphous halve
hairhound v
gypseous n / Shav /
/ Sha(a)(E)rThaUnd / E
gyring E [has homonym: have] divide into
[Note: Could be confused with two equal parts.
gyro horehound.] a European aromatic Uncle Jimmy used a huge butcher
mint that has a very bitter taste and knife to halve the chilled
gyrodyne is used as a tonic. watermelon.
Dr. Bebak prepared a mixture of
gyve hairhound and camphor. halves
habanera hairiness hamburger

n
haberdashery hake / ShamTbErgEr /
G geog name
habitus halal a sandwich made of a cooked patty
v of ground beef in a split round bun.
hachures / hESlBl / The hamburger is supposed to have
Ar first been served in the United
hackney slaughter for food according to States at the St. Louis Louisiana
Muslim law. Purchase Exposition in 1904.
hacksaw To halal an animal, the slaughterer
must be Muslim and must follow hamlet
Hadean specific rituals.
adj hanaper
/ ShCTdGEn / halfpace
Gk name n hanaster
[has homonym: Haitian] of, / ShafTpCs /
relating to, or characteristic of hell. F&E
The Hadean temperatures caused a a raised floor or dais or a platform
rush to purchase fans and air or footpace at the top of steps (as
conditioning units. for a throne or an altar).
The flower girl approached the
hadrosaur halfpace and curtsied demurely.
Page 62 of 153
hand handyman hashslinger
n
/ Shand / hangnail hasp
E n
[Note: The definition provided is / ShaNTnCl / hatbox
not the one most commonly E
associated with this word.] [Note: Could be confused with hatful
something resembling a group of agnail.] a piece of skin from the n
fingers in appearance, as a bunch of nail fold hanging loose at the side / ShatTfUl /
8 to 20 bananas attached together or root of a fingernail. E + Ecf
on their stem. Morgan used his hangnail as an a considerable amount or number.
Mrs. Loveless knew that she would excuse for skipping gym class. Leslie turned down a hatful of
not be able to eat the entire hand of suitors before she met Mr. Right.
bananas before she went on her harborage
business trip. hatred
hardanger
handcuff haven
hardback
handcuffs hawsehole
n pl hardware
/ ShandTkEfs / haylage
E+E harmonize
metal fastenings that can be locked v headily
around the wrists and are usually / ShBrmETnIz / adv
connected by a chain or bar. F / ShedFlG /
The convicted felon was taken to play or sing in a combination of E
prison in handcuffs. simultaneous musical notes that rashly, headlong.
form a chord. The wheelbarrow ran headily down
handgun The trio, widely renowned for their the ravine straight into the side of
ability to harmonize, were asked to Joe’s garden shed.
handicraft make a recording of their songs.
headquarters
handle harp
heady
hands harpist adj
n pl / ShedG /
/ Shan(d)z / harsh E
E adj tending to make giddy or light-
[Note: The definition provided is / ShBrsh / headed.
not the one most commonly Scand > E Aunt Rosa’s heady perfume left
associated with this word.] units of starkly unpleasant or rigorous : Jonas reeling after her hug.
measure, each equal to 4 inches and stern.
used especially for the height of The harsh facts of court delays in health
horses. our cities lead to many iniquities.
Any horses other than Arabians heartsick
that are shorter than 14.2 hands haruspication adj
are classified as ponies. / ShBrtTsik /
hash E+E
handspike n very despondent : depressed.
n / Shash / Warren was heartsick at the
/ Shan(d)zTpIk / Gmc > F thought of having to sell the family
D>E chopped food; specifically : a dish farm.
a wooden bar or pole used as a usually consisting of leftover meat
lever (as in turning a windlass) or chopped into small pieces, mixed heater
as a support (as for carrying with potatoes, and browned by
timber). baking or frying. heath
Satish pushed the handspike with Red flannel hash is made red by
all his might until finally the adding beets to chopped corned heatstroke
ratchet emitted a satisfying click. beef.
Page 63 of 153
heavenly hematite henceforth
adj n
/ ShevEnlG / / ShemETtIt / henrician
E Gk > L
of or relating to the dwelling place a mineral consisting of ferric oxide henry
of the Deity or the place or state of and constituting an important iron n
the blessed dead. ore that occurs in splendent / ShenrG /
Georgia doesn’t expect payment for metallic-looking rhombohedral Am name
her good deeds now—she’s waiting crystals, in massive forms, and in the practical meter-kilogram-
for her heavenly rewards. red earthy forms—called also second unit of inductance.
“specular iron.” The henry is usually abbreviated h
hebraic Dad brought Jill a piece of or hy and is named for the
hematite from an ore deposit he American physicist Joseph Henry.
hebraize visited.
heparinize
heckler hematochrome
n hepatobiliary
hedonistic / ShemEZPTkrPm /
Gk heptad
heelball an orangish or reddish coloring n
matter found in various algae (as / ShepTtad /
heir red snow). Gk
Red snow seen in arctic and alpine a group of seven.
heliacally regions indicates a presence of A heptad of Charles’s closest
algae that contain hematochrome. friends roasted him at his
helicitic retirement party.
hematology
heliodor n heptagon
/ ThGmEStBlEjG /
heliophile Gk + Gk herd
a branch of biology that deals with n
helipad the blood and blood-forming / ShErd /
organs. E
hellenic The research in leukemia provided [has homonym: heard] a number of
synopses of several case studies in one kind of animal kept together
helleri hematology. under human care or control.
The herd of beefalos grazing in the
hello hemicrania pasture will be sent to the
stockyard next week.
helminthic hemimetabolous
adj herdic
helmsmanship / ThemGmDStabElEs /
Gk > L + Ecf hereby
helobious of or relating to those insects
characterized by incomplete heredity
hemachate metamorphosis; especially various
insects with aquatic larvae. heresiarch
Dragonflies are hemimetabolous
insects. herrenvolk
hemline hesperidium
hemophilia heterochromatic
hemophiliacs heterodont
hemorrhaging heterodyne
hemorrhoid heterophyte
Page 64 of 153
heterotrophic highwayman histology
n n
hewer / ShITwCmEn / / hiSstBlEjG /
E+E+E Gk
hexapod [Note: Plural form is pronounced a branch of anatomy that deals with
n identically.] a person who robs the minute structure of animal and
/ SheksETpBd / travelers on a public road. vegetable tissues as discernible
Gk As he approached the stopped with the microscope.
insect. stagecoach, the highwayman The primary tissue categories in
Chelsea cannot understand why so demanded, “Your money or your animal histology are epithelial,
many of her classmates think that a life!” connective, muscle, and nervous.
spider is a hexapod. hillcrest
histoplasmosis
hiatal hindmost
adj historic
hiatus / ShIn(d)TmPst /
n E+E historical
/ hiSCZEs / farthest in or toward the rear.
L Gary always sat in the hindmost historiographer
gap : aperture. pew in church.
A hiatus between theory and histozyme
practice caused Abbie unending hinterland
frustration in her job administering hitch
surveys. hipbone v
/ Shich /
hibernation hiplength E
n catch or fasten by or as if by a hook
/ ThIbE(r)SnCshEn / hippology or a knot.
L n Every house along the historical
the act of being inactive or / hiSpBlEjG / street still has a post in front for
dormant, especially in winter. Gk visitors to hitch their horses to.
During brief periods of mild winter the study of the horse.
weather, some insects may come The veterinary student decided that hoary
out of hibernation. his concentration would be adj
hippology. / ShPrG /
hiddenite E
hippophagy gray or white; specifically : gray or
hierarchical white with age.
hippotomy Tilting his hoary head to one side,
hierarchize the storyteller began his tale.
hircocervus
hieroglyphic hobble
hireling v
hieroglyphist / ShBbEl /
hirsutal E
hieroglyphs walk with a halting, labored,
hirtellous typically up-and-down movement
hierolatry often marked by lurching or
hispid wobbling.
highland Sarah started to hobble over to get
histocyte her coat, but Louis fetched it for
highway her.
hobbledehoy
hochmoor
hockey
Page 65 of 153
hodiernal homework hoomalimali
n
hogan / ShPmTwerk / hopeless
n E+E adj
/ ShPTgBn / preparatory reading or research. / ShPplDs /
Navaho Steve had to do quite a bit of E + Gkcf > Lcf
a conical, hexagonal, or octagonal homework before he could make an having no expectation of good :
dwelling characteristic of the effective presentation on his despairing.
Navaho made with a door assigned topic. After two days of searching for the
traditionally facing east and hikers, the rescue workers started
constructed of logs and sticks homicide feeling hopeless.
covered with mud, sod, or adobe or n
sometimes of stones. / ShBmETsId / hopples
The modern-day hogan is primarily L
used not for housing but for family a killing of one human being by hopscotch
ceremonies and curings. another.
The autopsy report stated that the hornet
hoggery woman’s death was a homicide. n
/ ShOrnDt /
hoisted homiletics E
v any of the larger social wasps that
/ ShOistDd / homoeoteleutic are vigorous strong-flying insects
imit > D or G with powerful stings.
raised into position. homogenize Amy was afraid that she would get
By the use of a crane the large stung by a hornet if she walked too
stone was hoisted into place. homonuclear close to the nest in the tree.
adj
holeproof / ThPmPSn(y)VklGE(r) / horotely
Gk + L
holishkes of or relating to a molecule horsepower
composed of like nuclei. n
hollowly All homonuclear diatomic / ShO(E)rsTpaU(E)r /
molecules lack polarity in the bond E+L>F>E
holluschick between their atoms. a standard unit of power equal in
the United States to 746 watts.
holmium homunculus Stan, my hot-rodder friend, likes to
brag about the horsepower of his
holoku honeybee car’s engine.
n
holophytic / ShEnGTbG / hortulan
E
holy any of certain social honey- host
adj producing bees. n
/ ShPlG / Commercially desirable honey is / ShPst /
E produced from clover by the L>E
[has homonyms: holey, wholly] set domestic honeybee. [Note: The definition provided is
apart and dedicated to religious not the one most commonly
service or worship. honorable associated with this word. In
Jerusalem is a holy city to people adj addition, word could be confused
of at least four different religions: / SBnEr(E)bEl / with hosed.] a very large number :
Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and L>F>E a great quantity : multitude,
Bahaism. ethical, upright. myriad.
Steve ran an honorable campaign Becky offered a host of reasons why
homegrown for sheriff. she should be allowed to go to the
mall with her friends.
homemade hookup
hostels
homesick hooliganism
hotmelt
Page 66 of 153
householder humic hydrogenated
adj v
howling / ShyVmik / / ShIdrDjDTnCZEd /
L Gk + Gk + Ecf
hoydenism relating to or derived from the combined with hydrogen.
organic portion of soil. Vegetable oils that have been
hsin Our tour guide explained that hydrogenated are used in making
humic acids in the soil dissolve margarine.
huaco limestone and aid in the formation
of stalagmites and stalactites in hydrogenous
huarizo caves.
hydrognosy
huckleberry humifuse
hydrolatry
huckstering hummock
hydrology
huddled hunger
hydrolytic
huddup hunker
hydropneumatic
huff husband
n hydroxide
/ ShEf / hyacinthine n
imit / hISdrBkTsId /
a fit of anger or pique. hyacinths Gk
The Spelling Bee, who was quite the univalent negative ion
upset by the whole affair, had flown hyalescent consisting of one atom of hydrogen
off in a huff. and one of oxygen.
hyaline The alkali metals react with water
huge to produce hydrogen gas and the
adj hyaloid corresponding metal hydroxide.
/ ShyVj / adj
F>E / ShIETlOid / hygrodeik
very large or extensive. Gk
The two ships settled to the bottom, glassy, transparent. hygroscopic
each with a huge hole in her side. The thin hyaloid membrane adj
envelops the vitreous humor of the / ThIgrESskBpik /
huguenot eye. Gk
huitain hybosis hydroscopic.] readily taking up and
retaining moisture.
huke hydrargyrum Rob was not surprised to read that
glycerol is highly hygroscopic,
humanely hydrate because he knew that it is used as
adv v an emollient and moistening agent.
/ hyVSmCnlG / / ShITdrCt /
L Gk hylean
in a manner marked by take up or combine with water or
compassion, sympathy, or with hydrogen and hydroxyl. hylophagous
consideration for other human When Beulah activated the cold
beings or animals. pack, she was making the
The veterinarian argued that it is ammonium nitrate in it hydrate.
precisely because animals are not
human that we must treat them hydrazine
humanely.
hydroelectric
hydrogenate
Page 67 of 153
Hymenoptera iambist icing
n pl n n
/ ThImESnBptErE / / ISambDst / / SIsiN /
Gk > L Gk E
an extensive order of highly one who writes verse containing a a sweet coating for baked goods
specialized insects that includes metrical foot of two syllables usually made from sugar and butter
bees, wasps, and ants. unstressed and stressed combined with water, milk, or egg
The order Hymenoptera is perhaps respectively. white, flavored, often colored, and
the most beneficial to man of all Willliam Shakespeare is a famous often cooked.
insect groups. iambist. The lemon icing on Granddad’s
birthday cake nearly melted from
hypalgesia ianthine the heat of all the candles.
hyphenate iatrophysics iconolater
hypnotist Icarian iconolatry

adj
hypnotizable / iSka(a)rGEn / icy
Gk name
hypoglycemia [has near homonym: acarian] ideal
inadequate for or incapable of adj
hypokalemia bringing about an ambitious / ISdG(E)l /
project. L>F
hypolithic William’s problem-solving methods existing as a perfect example.
are usually Icarian, but this time The ideal gas equation expresses a
hypophyllous his approach provided the perfect relationship between the pressure,
solution. volume, temperature, and the
hypostasis number of moles of an ideal gas.
n iceblink
/ hISpBstEsDs / n ideaphoria
Gk / SIsTbliNk /
something that settles at the bottom E+E ideomotor
of a fluid : sediment. a yellowish or whitish glare in the
A harmless-looking hypostasis in a sky over an ice field (as in polar ides
soft drink bottle led to a series of regions)—called also “ice sky.” n pl
expensive lawsuits. The polar explorers wore special / SIdz /
goggles to combat the iceblink. L
hypotonic the 15th day of March, May, July,
adj icebone or October or the 13th day of any
/ ThI(T)pEStBnik / n other month in the ancient Roman
Gk / SIsTbPn / calendar.
of a fluid : having a lower osmotic (L > D or G + D or G) > E Julius Caesar was murdered on the
pressure than a fluid used as a the hipbone especially of cattle. ides of March.
standard. Grandpa stopped carving when his
To study the contents of red blood knife hit the icebone. idgah
cells, scientists put them into a
hypotonic solution that swells and ichnography idiocrasy
eventually bursts the cells by
osmosis. ichthyomorphic idiocy
hypoxis icily idioglossia
hypozeugma idiolect
hyson idiotic
hysteresis
Page 68 of 153
idolatrous illusionist impatiently
adj n adv
/ ISdBlEtrEs / / DSlVzhEnDst / / imSpCshEntlG /
Gk L L+L
of or relating to the worship of a one (as a magician) who produces in a manner that is restless or short
physical object as a god. deceptive or misleading effects. of temper especially under
Muhammad condemned the The illusionist amazed the audience irritation, delay, or opposition.
idolatrous cults, proclaiming that when he levitated a reclining The actress waited impatiently in
there is one God. subject. the wings for her cue to go onstage.
idolize illusorily impellent

v
/ SIdFlTIz / imam impenitent
Gk n
give absolute religious devotion / DSmBm / imperium
and ultimate trust to something that Ar
is not God. the prayer leader of a mosque. impersonate
It is worrisome that so many people The imam at the local Islamic
idolize sports figures, rock stars, center teaches classes on the Koran impersonator
and millionaires. to teenagers. n
/ DmSpErsFnTCZE(r) /
idyllically imbecility Ecf + L > F > E + Ecf
an entertainer who assumes the
ignimbrite imbiber character of another individual, a
type of person, an animal, or an
ignoble imbricate inanimate object.
adj The Elvis impersonator had his
/ igSnPbEl / immediate hair appropriately styled into a
L pompadour.
displaying or characterized by immersed
baseness or meanness : despicable. adj impiety
The senator changed his vote on / DSmErst /
the health bill for the ignoble L implore
purpose of protecting his stock completely engrossed.
investments. Immersed in his reading impound
assignment, Nathan was unaware
ignorable that a thunderstorm was raging imprecision
outside.
iliad impressible
immunoassay
illegal improvisatrice
immunotherapy
illiberally imprudent
imparlance
illocutionary impudence
impartial
illuminant impulsion
impartite
illuminate inabsentia
impassable
illumine inactive
impassive
illumiometer
impatience
Page 69 of 153
inactivity inch indefensible
n n
/ TinakStivEZG / / Sinch / indemnitee
L+L L>E
the quality or state of being not a unit of length equal to 1/36 yard. indent
given to action or effort : idleness, Michelle came storming in after
sluggishness. her hair appointment, furious indexer
Too much inactivity can affect because one side of her hair was at
mental as well as physical health. least an inch shorter than the other. indicatrix
inadvertent incidental indices
inaja incipience indicial
inanga incoercible indict
inapposite incogitable indignation
inarticulate incommutable indigoferous
inbiber incompossibility indiscernible
inbroglio inconclusive indiscriminate
Inca inconsequential indispensably

n
/ SiNkE / inconsiderate indissociable
Quechua > Sp
a Quechuan people in Peru that incontestable indium
established hegemony over
surrounding peoples to form an incorporator indocile
empire from about 1100 until the
Spanish conquest in the 1530s; also increasable indocility
: a member of such people.
The last Inca calmly stared at the incredulity indulgently
Spanish conquistador before
turning around and vanishing into incriminating inebriate
the forest. v
/ DnSkrimETnCZiN / inebriated
incapable L
adj furnishing evidence or proof of inebrious
/ inSkCpEbEl / circumstances tending to show the
L+L+L guilt of someone. inelegant
lacking capacity, ability, or Gunpowder burns on the suspect’s
qualification for the purpose or end hand constituted strong inelude
in view. incriminating evidence of his guilt.
The popular author seemed inept
incapable of writing a dull novel. inculcation
inequitable
incapacitate inculpate
inerrancy
incarcerated incunabulist
incaution incurment
incendiarism incursive
incessantly indazole
Page 70 of 153
inert inflationary inorganic
adj adj
/ iSnErt / infraction / TinO(r)Sganik /
L n L + Gk > L
very slow to move or act : lifeless, / DnSfrakshEn / [Note: Could be confused with
sluggish. L enorganic.] being, containing, or
Peter could not tell if the inert a violation by failure to follow, relating to a chemical substance or
hamster was near death or not. observe, or obey. substances not relating to or
For a first infraction of the school’s derived from living organisms.
inevitable disciplinary code, a student may be Clarice uses no inorganic
suspended for one day or be fertilizers in her garden.
inexorably assigned four hours in detention.
inquest
inexpugnable infractor
inquiry
infamy infraneritic
inquisitorial
infancy ingrained
inroad
infant inhalator
insanity
infarction inherently n
n / DnSsanEZG /
/ DnSfBrkshEn / inhibit L
L such unsoundness of mind as
the producing of an area of tissue injunction excuses one from criminal or civil
death (as of the heart) resulting n responsibility.
from obstruction of blood / DnSjEN(k)shEn / At his arraignment the defendant
circulation in the area. L pleaded “not guilty by reason of
Angina is usually much less serious a writ granted by a court of equity insanity.”
than myocardial infarction because whereby one is required to do or to insider
in angina there is no death of the refrain from doing a specified act.
heart muscle. The court issued a temporary insight
injunction against the sale of the
infection allegedly forged work of art. insincere
infectivity injure insinuation
infelicitous injures insolubility
infelicity inland insolvable
infield inning insolvency

n
infinite / SiniN / insolvent
E
infinity a division of a baseball game inspiration
n consisting of a turn at bat for each
/ DnSfinEZG / team. inspiratory
L Dad wants to leave the game at the
an indefinitely great number or end of the eighth inning to avoid inspissating
amount. the traffic.
Helen was amazed that Walter inspissation
could look up at the infinity of stars innovate
and point out numerous instant
constellations. innovator
inflammation innuendoes
Page 71 of 153
instar intently interlinear
n adv adj
/ SinTstBr / / DnStentlG / / TintE(r)SlinGE(r) /
L L + Ecf L
a stage in the life of an insect in a directed manner marked by inserted between rows of written or
between two successive molts. strained or eager attention. printed characters.
In the first instar of whiteflies, the Karen was gazing so intently out The book contains the original
young, active, wingless forms are the window that she did not realize Latin text with an interlinear
usually called larvae. her brother had entered the room. translation.
instellation interactive interludial

adj
instinctive / TintE(r)Saktiv / intermediary
L+L
instruct of, relating to, or being a two-way intermolecular
electronic communication system adj
insubordination (as a telephone or a computer) that / TintE(r)mESlekyElEr /
n involves a user’s orders (as for L+L
/ TinsETbO(r)dFnSCshEn / information or merchandise) or existing or acting between
L responses (as to a poll). molecules.
defiance of authority. Cody has worked hard to develop The van der Waals equation takes
Principal Sawyer warned the his interactive Web site. into account the intermolecular
students that any insubordination forces exerted on a molecule by
to teachers would be dealt with intercalary neighboring molecules.
severely.
intercensal interofective
insularity
intercession interpreter
insult
intercom interreflection
insure n
intercostal / TintE(r)rDSflekshEn /
insurgent L+L
interdiction reciprocal partial or complete
intact return of a wave motion (as of light
interdisciplinary or sound) from a surface that it
intarsia adj encounters into the medium that it
/ TintE(r)SdisEplDTnerG / originally traversed.
intellectual L+L Interreflection enables light to
n characterized by participation or travel hundreds of miles through
/ TintFlSekch(ew)El / cooperation of two or more fields fiber-optic cable.
L of study.
one given to study, reflection, and Many colleges permit students to interrelate
speculation especially concerning create interdisciplinary majors. v
large, profound, or abstract issues. / TintE(r)rDSlCt /
The guidance counselor told the interest L+L
student that she should not be have a mutual connection by way
afraid to be an intellectual. interleaf of sympathy especially as marked
by community of interest.
intelligence interline Karen and Stella interrelate so well
that each often knows what the
intent other is going to say.
interrogation
interrogator
interruption
Page 72 of 153
intervolve invocation irreverence
n
intestine / TinvESkCshEn / irreverential
L
intonement a prayer of entreaty that is usually a irruptible
call for the divine presence and is
intransigent offered at the beginning of a isallotherm
meeting or service of worship.
intratelluric Reverend Billy Graham gave the isanemone
invocation at the World Games of
intravenous the Special Olympics. isepiptesis
intriguer involucred islamics
introducible invulnerable islandology
introgressant inwardly islet
introvert iodize isobase
introverted ionize isoelectronic

v adj
intrusion / SIETnIz / / TI(T)sPDTlekStrBnik /
Gk > ISV Gk > ISV
intumescent convert wholly or partly into atoms having the same number of
or groups of atoms that carry a negatively charged constituent
intussuscept positive or negative electric charge elementary particles—used of
as a result of having lost or gained atoms or their ions.
inure one or more electrons. Comparing the size of ions of
It takes a certain amount of energy elements in different groups on the
invader to ionize a given gaseous atom in periodic table is meaningful only if
its ground state and a different they are isoelectronic.
invariant amount to ionize the resulting ion a
second or third time. isolationism
invert
v ipilipil isolette
/ DnSvErt /
L iridectomize isomeric
undergo a conversion of a adj
substance showing dextrorotation iridology / TIsPSmerik /
into one showing levorotation or Gk > ISV
vice versa. iris of, relating to, or exhibiting the
Dr. Norton pointed on the phenomenon exhibited by two or
illustration where the quartz iron more chemical substances
started to invert to cristobalite. containing the same numbers of
irrational atoms of the same elements in the
investigator substances but differing in the
irrefragably structural arrangement of the
invigilate atoms.
irreligious Two isomeric substances may have
invigorate adj different colors, melting points,
/ TirDSlijEs / dipole moments, and chemical
invitee L+L reactivities.
lacking emotions, doctrines, or
invocable practices that show reverence for a isopleth
god or a supreme being : ungodly.
Trefger prayed every day that his isopropyl
irreligious relatives would
eventually see the light. isopycnic
Page 73 of 153
isoseismal jacobean jeerer
adj
/ TI(T)sPSsIzmEl / jactance jejunity
Gk + Gk
of, relating to, or marked by equal jade jequirity
intensity of earthquake shock.
The graph showed the isoseismal Jainism jester
zones around the epicenter of the n n
earthquake. / SjCTnizEm / / SjestE(r) /
Skt > Hindi E
isotopic a religion of India characterized by fool.
adj the belief that while gods control The court jester went too far with
/ TIsPStBpik / the realm of time and matter, no his jokes one day and landed in the
Gk > ISV being higher than an absolutely dungeon.
of, relating to, or having the perfect human soul is necessary for
relationship of one of two or more the creation or moral regulation of jesuitize
species of atoms of the same the universe.
chemical element that have the Jainism—along with Hinduism and jetport
same atomic number but differ in Buddhism—is one of the three most
atomic mass or mass number. ancient of India’s religious jibber
Hydrogen, deuterium, and tritium, traditions still practiced.
which differ only in number of jicara
neutrons, are three isotopic forms jalousies n
of hydrogen. / ShGkErE /
jambeaux Nahuatl > Sp
isotron [has near homonym: Jicarilla] a
jambstone cup or bowl made from the fruit of
ispaghul the calabash tree.
jangly Edward spent some of his free time
ispahan carving a jicara.
janitress
Italianate jiffy
adj January
/ DStalyEnDt / n jigger
Gk > L > It / SjanyETwerG /
having an Italian quality : marked L jiggling
by Italian characteristics or the first month of the Gregorian
influence. calendar. jigsaw
The Italianate style of Victorian Three Kings’ Day is the sixth day
architecture was very popular in of January. jingoist
the United States between 1840 and
1870. japanesy jinx
itchy japeries jitterbug

n
ivorine jargonistic / SjiZE(r)TbEg /
unknown + unknown
jacana jarrah a dance in which couples two-step,
balance, and twirl in standardized
jacaranda jasponyx patterns or with vigorous
acrobatics.
jacket javelineer Movies set during World War II
often show people dancing the
jackpot jawbreaker jitterbug.
jackscrew jaygee
jacksnipe jeep
Page 74 of 153
jive journeyman jumbo
v adj
/ jIv / joyful / SjEm(T)bP /
unknown adj name of a circus elephant
[has homonym: gyve] dance to hot / SjOifEl / being a very large specimen of its
jazz. L > F > E + Ecf kind.
Cecily loves to jive while listening experiencing pleasure or delight : The jumbo diamonds flashed at the
to her father’s collection of old jazz happy. awards ceremony.
tunes. Joyful people are said to outlive
their bilious, whining counterparts. jumping
jobholder
jubate June
joggle n
Judaica / SjVn /
joinery n pl L name
n / jVSdCDkE / the sixth month of the Gregorian
/ SjOinErG / Gk > L calendar.
F>E things Jewish. Nuptiality usually increases
the fastening together of pieces of Rebecca opened a shop devoted dramatically in June.
wood to construct furniture, entirely to Judaica.
cabinetry, or other articles. junior
Ronald admired the nearly Judaism
seamless joinery on the n junoesque
Hepplewhite table at the auction / SjVdCTizEm /
but couldn’t afford to bid on it. Heb > Gk > L jurel
the total complex of cultural,
jointer social, and religious beliefs and jurisconsult
practices of the Jews.
jolly Laura decided to convert to jurisprudential
adj Judaism when she married David.
/ SjBlG / justiciar
Scand? > F > E judaize
full of high spirits : joyous. justificatory
The students couldn’t figure out judder
why their bus driver was so jolly all juvenilize
the time. judgeship
juxtaposed
jornada judgmatically
n kaddish
/ hO(r)SnBdE / judiciously
L > OProv > Sp kafkaesque
an arduous usually one-day journey judo
across a stretch of desert. kalanchoe
The travelers almost perished for jugger
lack of water on the grim jornada. kapok
juggle
journeycake kappa
n juice
/ SjErnGTkCk / karaoke
E name + ON > E juliet
[Note: Could be confused with n karpas
johnnycake or jonny cake.] a bread / SjVlyEt /
made of white or yellow cornmeal Shakespearean name karyogram
mixed with salt and water or milk a woman’s slipper with a high front
and either baked thin in a pan or and back and low-cut sides. karyotheca
dropped by spoonfuls onto a hot As Ruth slipped her foot into the
greased griddle. juliet, she felt the sharp point of an kathenotheism
Hiram yelled at Mitch for eating earring she thought she had lost.
the last journeycake. kavass
Page 75 of 153
kayak kickshaw king
n n
kea / SkikTshO / / SkiN /
F>E E
keckling a fancy dish in cookery : tidbit, a male monarch who reigns over a
delicacy. major territorial unit.
kedushah Arlene is famous for whipping up When his brother left for the
some exotic kickshaw out of crusades, Prince John decided to
keelblock whatever she has on hand. make himself king.
keelboat kiddish kingly
keepable kiddush kingpin
keg kikepa kink

n
kekepa / kGSkCpE / kinky
Hawaiian
kelebe a sarong worn by Hawaiian women kinswoman
with the top under one arm and n
kelly over the shoulder of the opposite / SkinsTwUmEn /
n arm. E+E
/ SkelG / During the Hawaiian culture a female relative.
Ir name celebration known as Makahiki, By marrying a kinswoman of the
a variable color averaging a strong males must wear a malo and king, the earl gained even more
yellowish green. females must wear a kikepa. power and influence.
Sinead is adamant that the best
color of felt for her shamrocks is kiloware kisses
kelly.
kin kittel
kenning n n
n / Skin / / SkiZFl /
/ SkeniN / E Ar? > G > Yiddish
ON a member of the same family : a [has homonym: kittle] a white
a metaphorical compound word or blood relation. cotton or linen robe worn by
phrase used especially in Old After comparing notes for over an orthodox Jews on Rosh Hashana
English and Old Norse poetry. hour, we determined that Howard and Yom Kippur and at the
While reading Beowulf, Frieda was not any kin to us. Passover seder.
found a kenning that referred to the Mr. Eisen put on a brand-new kittel
ocean as a “whale road.” kind and prepared to greet his seder
kenosis n guests.
/ SkInd /
keratopathy E kittiwake
a group united by common traits or
kerion interests : category, class. kiva
When Mayor Winkle publicly
kerystic informed the migrant workers that klezmer
their kind was not welcome, they
kettledrum responded with a lawsuit. klipbok
keyboard kindle kneel
keypunch kinesalgia knickerbockers
khaya kinesics knickknackery
kineticism
Page 76 of 153
knit kolo labrum
v n n
/ Snit / / SkP(T)lP / / SlCbrEm /
E OSlav > Serbo-Croatian L
[has homonym: nit] form a fabric a central European folk dance in the upper or anterior lip of insects.
or garment by the interlacing of a which dancers form a circle and A sand wasp is most easily
yarn or yarns in a series of progress slowly to right and left recognized by an elongated,
connected loops by means of hand while one or more solo dancers triangular labrum which resembles
or machine needles. perform elaborate steps in the a beak.
Scott asked his aunt to knit him a center.
special wool sweater with his name The tourists clapped as Yelena lacertiform
on it. danced the kolo energetically.
lacis
knitted kornerupine
laconize
knobstick korrigan
n lactose
knotty / SkOrDTgBn /
adj Bret ladder
/ SnBZG / [has homonym: corrigan as in
E corrigan pulse] a long-haired laddery
[has homonyms: noddy, naughty] nocturnal often malevolent Breton
full of difficulties or complications fairy sorceress. ladino
: hard to solve or understand. The evil character in the French n
Felipe had trouble cutting through children’s film was a korrigan. / lESdGTnP /
the knotty information presented in L > Sp
the computer manual. korrigum [has near homonym: Latino] a
n cunningly vicious horse or steer.
knowing / SkBrDgEm / One ladino proved to be the
Kanuri downfall of 17 riders at the rodeo.
knowingly a reddish fawn antelope of western
adv Africa having black markings. laicization
/ SnPiNlG / The zoo recently obtained a
E reddish-orange korrigum from lair
with awareness, deliberateness, or Senegal.
intention. lake
The physician was indicted for krausen n
knowingly defrauding the / SlCk /
government. kummel E
knuckles kunzite not the one most commonly
associated with this word.] a
koan kyack purplish red pigment prepared from
n lac dye or cochineal.
/ SkPTBn / kylin Eva wiped off her lipstick when
Jpn Tom told her that it contained lake
a paradox used in Zen Buddhism as kyphosis made from dried female insect
an instrument of meditation in bodies.
training monks to despair of an label
ultimate dependence upon reason lama
and to force them into sudden labels n
intuitive enlightenment. / SlBmE /
The most widely known koan is the Tibetan
question “What is the sound of one [has homonym: llama] a priest or
hand clapping?” monk of Tibetan Buddhism.
The famous lama gave an
introductory talk on dharma at the
Buddhist retreat center in Berkeley.
Page 77 of 153
lambert laryngectomize leaching
n
/ SlambE(r)t / laryngectomy lead
G name
the centimeter-gram-second unit of latanier leaden
brightness equal to the brightness adj
of a perfectly diffusing surface that latecomer / SledFn /
radiates or reflects 1 lumen per E
square centimeter. lateen oppressively heavy.
The lambert is used in calculations After hours of trudging through the
by astronomers, physicists, lateral rain, Tibi’s clothes were leaden
engineers, and photographers. and her feet ached.
lather
lamellirostral leafcup
lathhouse
lamentable leag
laticifer
laminiplantar leanly
Latino
lampblack n learn
/ lEStGnP / v
lampoonery L > Sp / SlErn /
[has near homonym: ladino] a E
lanai person of Latin American origin gain knowledge or understanding
living in the United States. of or skill in by study, instruction,
lancers Comedian Paul Rodriguez has built or experience.
n pl his routine around being a Latino. Joel was determined to learn his
/ Slan(t)sE(r)z / multiplication tables before
F latitudinarian Thanksgiving.
a set of five square dances each in a
different meter. latrodectism least
In the lancers, the dancers salute in
military style. latter leather
landlord laudable leathery
lanuginous launch leaving
laocoon launcher lebhaft
laputan lavation lee
larcenist lawful leechcraft
larcenously lawrencium leeward
large laxative leeway

adj
/ SlBrj / lay leftover
L>F>E n
exceeding most other things of like / SlC / leftovers
kind in bulk, capacity, quantity, Scand n pl
superficial dimensions, or number [has homonym: lei] a simple / SleftTPvE(r)z /
of constituent units. narrative poem. E+E
Compared to saddle horses, A popular historical ballad can fragments of food remaining from a
Belgians and Clydesdales are quite properly be called a lay. meal.
large. The waiter brought Elbert a
layback container for his leftovers.
larrikin
Page 78 of 153
legalize Lethean ligand
adj n
legion / SlGthGEn / / SligEnd /
Gk L
legionnaire of, relating to, or causing a group, ion, or molecule
forgetfulness. coordinated to the central atom in a
legitim Blake said that the Lethean nature coordination complex.
of the novel was to blame for his Sphyros explained that a ligand is
legitimate poor grade on the literature quiz. just a molecule or ion surrounding
a transition metal in a complex
lei leucite molecule or ion.
leicester leucotomy lightened
leiotrichous leukemogen ligure
leisurely lexicology ligustrum

n
lemel / TleksESkBlEgG / lilacs
Gk
lemon the science of the derivation and liman
signification of words.
lengthen Jim is working on a graduate limber
degree in lexicology and has his
lengthy heart set on becoming a dictionary limburger
editor.
lenience lime
liaise n
lentil v / SlIm /
/ lGSCz / E
lepidopterology L>F>E a caustic highly infusible solid that
n establish communication for consists essentially of calcium
/ TlepETdBptErSBlEjG / purposes of mutual understanding. oxide.
Gk > L The U.S. Treasury agent had to Sidney learned at the museum that
a branch of the science of insect liaise with the local and state lime is one of the material
life dealing with the study of police in the matter of the components of glass.
butterflies and moths. suspected counterfeiters.
Dabbling in lepidopterology is a limekiln
hobby for Ian, who has a fabulous liberate
butterfly collection. limitless
librettist
leprous limousines
lichenology
leptodactylous limpa
lickerish
lessee limpet
lickspittle
lesser limpkin
adj lifeboat
/ SlesE(r) / limuloid
E lifelong
[has homonym: lessor] smaller :
inferior.
The lesser rivers and streams did
not have names on the Forest
Service map.
Page 79 of 153
lindy lintwhite lixiviate
n n
/ SlindG / / SlintT(h)wIt / loach
U.S. name E
a jitterbug dance originating in a common small Old World finch loafer
Harlem and later developing many having plumage that varies greatly. n
local variants. In his poem “Claribel” Tennyson / SlPfE(r) /
Sean and Miriam danced the lindy wrote: “Her song the lintwhite L > Sp > E
at the costume party. swelleth, the clear-voiced mavis [Note: The definition provided is
dwelleth. . . .” not the one most commonly
linebacker lionize associated with this word.] timber
wolf.
linenized lipoprotein Gunter spotted a loafer frolicking
in the snow.
linesman liquid
n adj loathing
/ SlInzmEn / / SlikwDd /
E&(L > F) + E L local
[Note: Plural form is pronounced being extremely fluid without being
identically.] an official who assists gaseous and having a definite localize
a referee especially in various goal volume without having a definite
and net games. shape except such as is temporarily localizer
The chief duty of the head linesman given by a container.
in football is to mark the yardage When air is liquefied, oxygen is the locker
gained or lost on each play. first component to become liquid.
locket
lingcod lisp
locomobile
lingo listen
locomote
linguistic listless
adj locomotive
linotypist / SlistlDs /
E loft
linoxyn characterized by lack of inclination
or impetus to exertion : languid, logaoedic
linseed spiritless.
People with abnormally low levels logical
linstock of thyroid hormones are often
n listless and apathetic. logodaedaly
/ SlinzTtBk /
D>E literal logorrheic
a pointed forked staff shod with
iron at the foot formerly used to literally lolloped
hold a lighted match for firing v
cannon. lithium / SlBlEpt /
Captain Braucher waved the imit E
linstock over his head to indicate lithophilous proceeded with a bounding or
he was ready to fire. bobbing motion.
litigant The jackrabbit lolloped across the
lawn in the twilight.
livable
lombard
livedo
longhorn
liverwurst
lividity
Page 80 of 153
longways lucubrate lutestring
adv v n
/ SlONTwCz / / SlVk(y)ETbrCt / / SlVtTstriN /
E+E L It > E
in two straight lines. discourse learnedly in writing. a plain glossy silk formerly much
Michael announced that the next Abraham had the opportunity to used for women’s dresses and
folk dance would be performed lucubrate in several journals before ribbons.
longways. he turned away from scholarship. Ephemia wore a flowing negligee
of white lutestring to the costume
loosen luge party.
v
/ SlVsFn / luger luthern
E n
set free : free from restraint. / SlVTzhE(r) / lycanthropic
The crook thought a little money F
might loosen his tongue, but Vince [has near homonym: loser] one lymph
never said a word about the jewels. who coasts on a small sled.
Ron likes Nordic skiing, but Arthur lyncean
loosestrife fancies himself a luger.
lynch
lope lukewarmly
lynching
lopolith luminophor n
/ SlinchiN /
loran lunate Am name
adj the act of a mob or group that
lorelei / SlVTnCt / hangs or otherwise kills someone in
L punishment of a presumed crime or
lorgnettes shaped like a crescent. offense.
A whimsical lunate window lit the Police were called in to prevent the
lose stairwell in Xavier’s house. riotous mob from lynching the
captured terrorist.
lots lupuline
adv lyrurus
/ SlBts / lurch
E lysin
to or by a considerable number or lure
amount : much. v macao
Ginny asserts that reading a book / SlU(E)r /
is lots more fun for her than Gmc > F > E maccus
watching television. [has homonym: loure] attract,
entice, invite. macellum
loutishness Wendy hopes that the new neon n
sign will lure customers into her / mESselEm /
lovable beauty salon. Heb > Gk > L
an ancient Roman market or market
lox lusterware building.
Phyllis toured the Colosseum, a
loyally lustral statuary garden, and a macellum
while on vacation in Rome.
loyalty lustrously
macfarlane
lubberly
luckily
Lucretian
Page 81 of 153
Mach magisterially major
n v
/ SmBk / magistrate / SmCjE(r) /
G name L
[has homonyms: moch, mock] a magmatic pursue a subject of academic study
number representing the ratio of the as a field of specialization.
speed of a body to the speed of magnet Like many students, Harold has no
sound in the surrounding idea what subject he would like to
atmosphere. magnetician major in.
The Mach required to reach low
Earth orbit is 25. magnetism makable
adj
machicotage magneto / SmCkEbEl /
E + Ecf
machinations magnific capable of being made.
adj Boris and Natasha argued over
machine / magSnifik / how to establish a makable bridge
L>F contract.
macho imposing in size.
Friedrich painted a magnific hill makara
macilent shooting high above the clouds. n
/ SmEkErE /
macrobian magnolia Skt
a water monster of Hindu religious
macrobiotic magpie myth that is represented in religious
art as having the body of a
macropterous magus crocodile and head of an antelope.
adj n A makara is portrayed on one of
/ maSkrBptErEs / / SmCgEs / the five types of flags mentioned in
Gk + Gk Gk > L Buddhist scripture.
having long or large wings—used magician.
of birds or insects. The magus practiced his shape- maladjustment
The macropterous bald eagle has a changing spells on his apprentice.
wingspan that ranges from six to malaise
eight feet. maiant
malapropos
macroscian maidservant
malefic
macular mailable
malevolence
maculose mailbox
malihini
madcap maile
malmignatte
maddeningly mainspring
malversation
maddish mainstream n
/ TmalvE(r)SsCshEn /
madeira majolica L>F
misbehavior and especially
madonna majoon corruption in an office, trust, or
commission.
maestoso The gubernatorial candidate claims
that malversation has become
maggotry rampant in the present
administration.
magi
magic
Page 82 of 153
mambo manslaughter marchpane
n n n
/ mBm(T)bP / / SmanTslOZE(r) / / SmBrchTpCn /
Sp E + Scand It
a complex, staccato, usually fast the slaying of a human being; a shapable confection made of
dance related to the rumba and of specifically : the unlawful killing of almond paste.
Cuban origin. a human being without express or The marchpane was sculpted into a
Mr. Varda was the best dancer of implied malice. tiny edible castle.
the mambo in Cleveland in the Because the prosecutor could not
1950s. prove premeditation, the suspect margin
was charged with manslaughter
mammalia instead of murder. marie
n
mammatus mantelpiece / mESrG /
F
mammonish mantra an often ornamented raised border
n of a plate or flat dish that forms a
manacled / SmantrE / plane nearly parallel to the bottom.
Skt The marie of Valetta’s china was
manager a verbal spell, ritualistic decorated with 14-karat gold.
incantation, or mystic formula used
manciple devotionally in popular Hinduism marina
and Buddhism.
manger While awaiting rescue from the marinated
earthquake, Ravi used a mantra to
mango keep his mind off the pain. marketfish
n
mangosteen manumitter / SmBrkDtTfish /
E geog name + E
manicure many [Note: Could be confused with
adj margate fish and margot fish.] a
maniple / TmenG / variable usually pearl gray fish of
E the tropical western Atlantic.
manipulate consisting of or amounting to a The marketfish is esteemed as a
large but indefinite number : not food fish.
manit few.
Many college students flock to the marmoreal
mannequin beaches during spring break.
marooned
mannish maoism
adj marquee
/ Smanish / maori
E marquette
resembling or suggesting that of a mar
man. marriage
Low-heeled mannish shoes maracas n
completed Louise’s outfit. / Smarij /
marasmus L>F>E
the state of being united to a person
marcescence as husband or wife.
In many countries marriage has a
March number of legal ramifications for
n both parties involved.
/ SmBrch /
L name > F > E marron
the third month of the Gregorian
calendar. marrow
March is typically a windy month
in the United States. marteline
Page 83 of 153
martingale matroclinal mazar
n
martinique matronly / mESzBr /
Ar
mascalage matsail a Muslim shrine or enshrined tomb.
The popular shrine was reputed to
masculinity maturity be the mazar of a saint, but none of
the pilgrims was certain who was
masher maunderer buried there.
n
/ SmashE(r) / mauvette mcleod
E
a kitchen utensil for crushing food maxilla mealiness
to a soft, pulpy consistency.
Brittany used a masher on the maximum mealy
potatoes before whipping in the
butter and milk. maxwell mean
n n
mashie / SmakTswel / / SmGn /
Scot name E
masochism the centimeter-gram-second [Note: The definition provided is
electromagnetic unit of magnetic not the one most commonly
masochist flux equal to the flux per square associated with this word. In
centimeter of normal cross section addition, word has homonym:
massecuite in a region where the magnetic mien.] a quantity formed by adding
induction is 1 gauss. quantities together in any order and
mastermind The maxwell is named after James dividing by their number.
Clerk Maxwell, who is ranked with When students average their
masterpiece Sir Isaac Newton and Albert grades, they are calculating the
Einstein for the fundamental nature arithmetic mean.
mastoid of his contributions to science.
meander
matchcoat may
n n meaning
/ SmachTkPt / / SmC /
Powhatan > E L meatball
a mantle or similar loose covering [Note: The definition provided is
of fur, feathers, or usually woolen not the one most commonly mechanics
cloth formerly extensively worn by associated with this word.] the n pl
Native Americans. early, vigorous part of human life : / mDSkaniks /
Running Fox took his rifle and his prime, heyday. Gk
matchcoat and headed out into the The quarterback knew that the end a branch of physical science that
night. of his may was at hand, so he deals with energy and forces and
began to think about a second their relation to the equilibrium,
matching career. deformation, or motion of solid,
liquid, and gaseous bodies.
matchless maypole A scientist in the field of fluid
n mechanics used a Ping-Pong ball
material / SmCTpPl / and a shop vacuum cleaner to
L>F>E+L>E demonstrate the Bernoulli effect.
matricide a tall pole in an open place and
n wreathed with flowers forming a mechanistic
/ SmatrETsId / center for May Day sports.
L The eighth-grade girls danced mechanize
murder of a mother by her son or around the maypole in the school’s
daughter. spring festival. mechanomorphic
In the Greek drama, Orestes
commits matricide in revenge for mazagran medal
his mother’s murder of his father.
Page 84 of 153
medallic memorable merciless
adj adj
median / Smem(E)rEbEl / / SmErsGlDs /
n L L > F > E + Ecf
/ SmGdGEn / worthy of being remembered or cruel, harsh, pitiless.
L noted. The columnist’s satire turned a
a value in an ordered set of “The Raven” is one of Edgar Allan merciless spotlight on the academic
quantities below and above which Poe’s most memorable poems. establishment.
fall an equal number of quantities
or which is the average of the two memorial mercuric
middle values if there is no one adj
middle number. menat / TmErSkyUrik /
The median of the set {8, 10, 14, L > ISV
36} is 12. mennonite of, relating to, or containing the
heavy silver-white poisonous
mediation menology metallic element that is the only
metal liquid at ordinary
medicament mensuration temperatures—used especially of
n compounds in which this element is
medievalist / Tmen(t)sESrCshEn / bivalent.
L “Mad hatters” are no myth: Toxic
medlar the act, process, art or an instance solutions of mercuric chloride and
of measuring : measurement. mercuric nitrate were once used in
meek The lab tests seemed to run the production of felt hats.
perfectly, but careless mensuration
megahertz resulted in the need to redo merge
everything.
megaprosopous merlin
mention
megrim n merlon
/ SmenchEn / n
melangeur L / SmErlEn /
the act or an instance of citing, L > It > F
melanin noting, or calling attention to [has homonym: merlin] one of the
someone or something especially in tall intervals between embrasures
melanite a brief or casual manner. on a battlement.
Harry was disappointed that his Sergeant Stammel took cover
melanochroi defensive play did not receive any behind a merlon as the enemy
mention in the newspaper account archers began to shoot.
melezitose of Saturday’s game.
meromictic
melic menu
n merrily
meliorism / Sme(T)nyV /
L>F merry
melismatics the dishes served at a meal or the adj
meal itself. / SmerG /
melliferous The menu for the country music E
awards banquet includes fried [has near homonym: marry] full of
melodious chicken and apple brown Betty. gaiety or high spirits : cheerful.
Dozens of movies have been made
melomania mercerized about Robin Hood and his merry
men.
merchant
meseta
merchantable
mesocracy
merciful
mesoprosopic
Page 85 of 153
mesoptile metathesis methanize
n v
mess / mDStaJEsDs / / SmeJETnIz /
n Gk ISV
/ Smes / a chemical reaction between two convert (as a mixture of carbon
L>F>E compounds in which part of the monoxide and hydrogen) to a
[Note: The definition provided is first compound becomes united colorless odorless flammable
not the one most commonly with part of the second and the gaseous saturated hydrocarbon that
associated with this word.] remainder of the first compound is lighter than air and forms
sufficient quantity (of a specified becomes united with the remainder explosive mixtures with air or
kind of food) for a dish or a meal. of the second. oxygen.
Janie went out to the garden and Metathesis between an aqueous Dan correctly wrote the chemical
picked a mess of green beans for solution of barium chloride and an equation illustrating how to
supper. aqueous solution of sodium sulfate methanize carbon monoxide and
produces a white precipitate of hydrogen.
message barium sulfate.
method
Messiah metempsychosis
n n methylate
/ mDSsIE / / TmEZTemTsISkPsDs /
Heb&Aram Gk meticulous
the expected king and deliverer of the passing of the soul at death into
the Jews. another body either human or metier
Messianic Jewish congregations animal.
believe that Jesus was the promised Hinduism and Buddhism are major metricize
Messiah, but they also observe religions that profess belief in
Jewish holidays. metempsychosis. mhometer
messianic meteorology miaul

n
messmate / TmGZGESrBlEjG / micraner
Gk
metacarpus a science that deals with the microangiopathy
atmosphere and its phenomena (as
metachronous variations of heat, moisture, or micrometeorite
winds).
metalloid Sarah was disappointed when she microphyll
n learned that her favorite weather
/ SmeZFlTOid / forecaster had no formal training microsecond
Gk? > L > F > E + Gk > ISVcf in meteorology. n
a nonmetal (as carbon or nitrogen) / SmIkrPTsekEnd /
that can combine with a metal to meter Gk + L
form an alloy. n a unit of time equal to 1 millionth
When asked to name a metalloid, / SmGZE(r) / of a second.
Xerxes gave two examples: silicon Gk Some writers need five paragraphs
and germanium. [Note: The definition provided is to explain an emotion that lasts
not the one most commonly only for a microsecond.
metallophone associated with this word.]
systematically arranged and microseism
metalware measured rhythm in verse.
Meter in English is by stress rather
metatarsus than by length of vowel as in
Greek.
Page 86 of 153
microwave milliammeter miniseries
v n n
/ SmITkrPTwCv / / TmilGSa(m)TmGZE(r) / / SminGTsi(T)rGz /
Gk + E L > F + F name + Gk > F L+L
cook or heat in an oven that an instrument for measuring a television production of a story
penetrates food with very short electric currents in milliamperes. presented in sequential episodes.
electromagnetic waves. The electrical output of a The novel’s plot was so long and
The instructions on the jumbo photoelectric cell is measured with convoluted that the television
package of frozen lasagna were to a milliammeter. producers decided to dramatize it
microwave the contents for 25 in a six-part miniseries instead of a
minutes. millionairess movie.
midbrain milonga mink

n n
middling / mDSlONgE / / SmiNk /
adj Sp E
/ SmidliN / an Argentine ballroom dance that any of several slender-bodied
E preceded the tango early in the 20th semiaquatic carnivorous mammals
falling between two extremes. century. that resemble and are closely
The fugitive was described as a It is unusual to see anyone dance related to the weasels.
man of middling height, with the milonga nowadays. The American mink generally feeds
blonde hair, and wearing a cape. on fish, muskrats, rabbits, and
milquetoast birds.
midway
adv mime minnesinger
/ SmidTwC / n
E minauderie / SminGTsiNE(r) /
in the middle of the distance. G
The alderman’s proposal was mince one of a class of aristocratic
midway between revolution and German lyric poets and musicians
reform. mineral of the 12th to the 14th centuries
characterized by having love and
miff mineralize beauty as the subject of their songs.
v The folk tale ended with the
milanaise / Smin(E)rETlIz / revelation that the apprentice
L + Ecf minnesinger was actually the son of
mile supply with minerals or any a German prince.
n inorganic compound.
/ SmIl / Mary’s science project was a minniebush
E poster explaining how fluorine ions
a unit of distance equal to 5,280 in toothpaste help to mineralize miraculously
feet. teeth and thereby fight decay.
Sasha thought it terribly unfair that mirifical
he had to walk a mile to school. mineralogy
miscalculations
military minification
miscella
millennial minikin
miscreancy
millesimal minimal
misdemeanant
Page 87 of 153
misemphasize mission mitchella
v n
/ TmisSem(p)fETsIz / / SmishEn / miticide
Ecf + Gk L
give a misplaced or wrong stress or a ministry (as preaching or mitigation
relative importance to. educational or medical work)
Mona worried that the highlighting commissioned by a church or some mitimae
in the used textbook would other religious organization for the
misemphasize the important points purpose of propagating its faith or mitral
she should learn. carrying on humanitarian work.
Most young Mormon men serve a mixer
misfortune two-year mission overseas. n
n / SmiksE(r) /
/ misSfOrchEn / missive L + Ecf
Ecf + L > F > E a stationary or portable kitchen
an instance of bad luck. missorted utensil equipped with one or more
What victim of a misfortune has not v beaters for mixing, beating,
asked “Why me?” / mi(s)SsO(E)rZDd / creaming, or whipping a variety of
mishit Ecf + E foods.
n incorrectly put in a given place or Grace and Harry received a large
/ SmisThit / rank according to kind, class, or mixer as a wedding present.
E + ON + E nature.
a poor hit in cricket. If the dirty laundry is missorted, moarian
David’s first swing was deemed a some nice clothes could be ruined.
mishit and booed by the crowd. moat
misspeak n
misinterpret v / SmPt /
v / mi(s)SspGk / F>E
/ TmisDnStErprDt / Ecf + E [has homonym: mote] a deep and
Ecf + L utter words or articulate sounds wide trench surrounding a castle.
give an incorrect explanation to : incorrectly. The oily, dark waters of the moat
explain wrongly. The president was relieved when he swirled as some unknown creature
It would be very hard to did not misspeak any words in his passed close to the surface.
misinterpret the body language inaugural address.
conveyed by the rolling of one’s mobcap
eyes. misstrike n
n / SmBbTkap /
miso / mi(s)SstrIk / D? + L > E
n Ecf + E a woman’s indoor cap; especially :
/ SmG(T)sP / a coin whose design is off center. a fancy cap made of sheer material
Jpn The misstrike in the coin collector’s with a high full crown and often
a paste used in preparing soups and shadow box is extremely valuable. tied under the chin.
other foods that is made by The chambermaid, dressed in black
grinding a mixture of steamed rice, mistakes and wearing a mobcap and a white
cooked soybeans, and salt and n pl apron, brought in the refreshments.
fermenting it in brine. / mDSstCks /
Akira made a light soup of miso, ON > E mobster
spinach, and tofu. wrong actions or statements n
proceeding from faulty judgment, / SmBbstE(r) /
misorientation inadequate knowledge, or L
n inattention : unintentional errors. a member of a criminal gang.
/ TmisTPrGEnStCshEn / The princess explained, “You must The mobster ordered Tony to pay
Ecf + L never feel badly about making his gambling debts or else.
the act of wrongly or incorrectly mistakes as long as you take the
determining one’s bearings or trouble to learn from them.” mockado
settling one’s sense of direction. mistreat
The pilot’s misorientation led him
to believe that the water below him mistrust
was the sky.
Page 88 of 153
mode molecular monogamy
n adj
/ SmPd / / mESlekyElE(r) / monograph
L L>F
[Note: The definition provided is relating to, connected with, monohull
not the one most commonly produced by, or consisting of units
associated with this word. In of matter that are the smallest monology
addition, word has homonym: particles of an element or chemical n
mowed.] the value that occurs most combination of atoms (as a / mESnBlEjG /
frequently : the most common compound) capable of retaining Gk
value. chemical identity with the the habit of talking to oneself.
In the set {2, 4, 6, 6, 8} the mode is substance in mass. Dmitri defended his monology,
6. A molecular formula shows the saying that only if he argued with
exact number of atoms of each himself should it be of concern.
moderne element in a molecule.
monophthalmic
modernize mollifier
monophthong
modestly mollyhawk
adv n monopolizer
/ SmBdDstlG / / SmBlGThOk /
L D>E monopolylogue
with a moderate opinion of one’s [Note: Could be confused with
own importance or merits. mollymawk.] one of several large monopsony
The firefighter who rescued the oceanic birds (as the fulmar or
child modestly explained that he petrel). monotheism
was just doing his job. A mollyhawk dove into the water
and plucked out a wriggling fish. monotheistic
modulus adj
molybdenum / TmBnE(T)thGSistik /
mofussil Gk + Gk
mombin of, relating to, or characterized by
moire the doctrine or belief that there is
momentous but one God.
mole Zoroastrianism is perhaps the
n momus oldest monotheistic religion.
/ SmPlG / n
Nahuatl > AmerSp / SmPmEs / monoxenous
[has homonym: moly] a highly Gk name
spiced sauce made principally of a carping critic : faultfinder. montane
chili and chocolate but containing People might enjoy Molly’s
numerous other ingredients and company more if she were not such monuron
served with meat (as beef or a momus.
turkey). moody
Maria’s recipe for mole requires monarchical adj
four different kinds of chile / SmVdG /
peppers. monarchy E
subject to or characterized by
monasterial depression or discontent : sullen.
The band’s lead singer is
mondial notoriously moody and publicity-
shy.
monitor
moonbeam
monkeyfy
moonstone
monkeys
moor
monody
Page 89 of 153
moorage mulct musicale
v n
moray / SmElkt / / TmVzDSkal /
L F
morbidity defraud especially of money : a usually private concert of music
swindle. typically comprising a social
morbilli The con artist will mulct Mrs. entertainment.
Crawford of her savings if she falls The governor’s mansion was the
morcellement for his story. site of a well-attended musicale
celebrating New Year’s Day.
morosophist muleta
musician
morphine muleteer n
/ myVSzishEn /
morphogeny mull L>F>E
v one skilled in music.
morphology / SmEl / Although she worked at a bank,
E Shirley always told people she was
mortgagee consider or talk over the aspects of a musician when asked what her
at length or at leisure. profession was.
mortmain After he finished the book, Simon
tried to mull it over, but he kept musk
mosesite being distracted. n
/ SmEsk /
motion mullet Skt > Per > Gk > L > F > E
a substance that has a penetrating
motivation multiplex persistent odor that is obtained
n from the male musk deer.
motocross / SmEltETpleks / Musk is used in many perfumes and
L+L in medicine as an antispasmodic.
motorcycle a complex housing several movie
theaters. mussalchee
mottlement The new multiplex featured a coffee
shop in its lobby for its theater mustard
mournful patrons. adj
/ SmEstE(r)d /
movement munchausen L>F>E
n a pungent yellow condiment which
/ SmVvmEnt / muniments is sometimes mixed with water and
L + Ecf vinegar and applied to the skin as a
the action of moving : change of murine poultice for skin irritation.
position. Angelique had been up during the
Serena’s jerky movement threw her murre night making mustard plasters to
partner off balance. relieve his colic.
murrelet
moving mutagenesis
muscadine
muddled mutchkin
muscular n
mudskipper / SmEchkDn /
museology E
muffled [has near homonym: munchkin] a
mushroom Scotch unit of liquid capacity equal
mug to 0.9 pint.
Mrs. Calderwood ordered a
muguet mutchkin of lemon juice from the
grocer.
mutilation
Page 90 of 153
mutilator nacho nasology
n
mutinously / SnBch(T)P / nastiness
Sp
mycology a tortilla chip topped with cheese nationalism
n and a savory substance (as chili
/ mISkBlEjG / peppers or refried beans) and native
Gk broiled.
a branch of the science of plant life Stevie grabbed the last nacho off naturalism
dealing with fungi. the platter just as his little brother n
Dana’s neighbor has studied reached for it. / Snach(E)rETlizEm /
mycology and probably knows the L
name of the fungus that is killing nachtmusik the quality, rendering, or
her flowers. expression of art or literature
nacre executed according to the theory
myelography that art or literature should conform
nacreous exactly to nature or depict every
myelosis appearance of the subject that
namaycush comes to the artist’s attention.
myology Naturalism in plays is often
n nameless exemplified by tough,
/ mISBlEjG / unsentimental characters, sordid
Gk namely urban settings, and fast-paced
a scientific study of muscles. adv slangy dialogue.
The pediatrician recommended that / SnCmlG /
Ron’s baby brother, who has E nautch
trouble swallowing, be taken to a that is to say : to wit.
specialist in orofacial myology. Yola chalked up another triumph to navar
her growing list; namely, she
myopically secured the biggest account in her navigable
company’s history.
myriameters nearsighted
n pl nameplate
/ SmirGETmGZE(r)z / nebulization
Gk > F nanmu
metric units of length, each equal to necessarily
10,000 meters. nao
The surveyors calculated that a necessitate
bridge over the narrowest part of nappe
the lake would shorten the route necrolatry
between the towns by several nappy
myriameters. necrology
narcolepsy
myrrhed necrotic
narcotic
mysticism nectariferous
narratage
mythologist neencephalon
nascence
mythology negate
naseberry
nabby n neglected
/ SnCzberG /
L > Sp > E negligibility
the fruit of the sapodilla tree with a
rough brownish skin and very neighbor
sweet brownish pulp.
The naseberry is a popular fruit
export of Jamaica.
Page 91 of 153
neighborhood neurility nightcap
n n n
/ SnCbE(r)ThUd / / n(y)VSrilEZG / / SnItTkap /
E+E Gk + Ecff E+L>E
a number of people forming a the special properties and functions a cloth cap worn with nightclothes.
loosely cohesive community within of the nerves. The cartoon depicted an elderly
a larger unit. When nerve fibers are subjected to gentleman in bed, complete with
“I’ve been in the neighborhood injury, neurility is adversely tasseled nightcap, casting a fly
only a short time,” Mrs. affected. across the room into a large urn.
Underwood explained.
neurolysis nightjar
nemo
neuropsychic nightshade
nene
neurosis nil
neofascist n
neurotransmitter / Snil /
neolithic n L
/ Tn(y)VrPtran(t)SsmiZE(r) / nothing, zero.
neology Gk + L + L Jill gave up making crafts for sale
a chemical substance that transmits at fairs because she felt she was
neoplasm nerve impulses across a synapse. earning absolutely nil.
Parkinson’s disease is caused by a
neoteric lack of the neurotransmitter nilpotent
adj dopamine in the brain. adj
/ TnGESterik / / TnilSpPtFnt /
Gk > L neuter L
recent in origin : modern. equal to zero when raised to some
Richard was a fan of neoteric neutrality power.
interior design. The number zero is nilpotent for
next every power except zero.
nephogram adj
/ Snekst / nincompoop
nephrite E
following that approaching or in nineties
nervulose progress. n pl
After the June test date, the next / SnIntGz /
ness date for the SAT I is not until E
October. the numbers 90 to 99 inclusive.
nether Jack should make an A in math this
adj ngege term because all his test scores are
/ SneLE(r) / in the high nineties.
E nicad
lower, under. n ninety
Mr. Ward feared that his company / SnITkad /
would be ground to powder Sw? + Gk > L nippers
between the upper millstone of a rechargeable dry cell that has a
rigidly set price ceilings and the nickel cathode and a cadmium nisse
nether millstone of high labor anode.
costs. The nicad in Carl’s shaver worked nitrite
even after having been left idle for n
three years. / SnITtrIt /
Gk > ISV
nickeline a salt or ester of an unstable acid
known only in pale blue solution.
nidology In the soil, ammonium from plants
and animals becomes nitrite as part
niggle of the nitrogen cycle.
Page 92 of 153
nitwit nomarchy nonnegotiable
adj
nivation nomenclatural / TnBnnDSgPsh(G)EbEl /
L
nix nominative that is not open to discussion or
n question or dispute.
/ Sniks / nomothetic The company’s settlement offer was
G nonnegotiable; Cameron was told
[Note: The definition provided is nonagesimal to “take it or leave it.”
not the one most commonly adj
associated with this word. Word / TnBnESjesEmEl / nonpartisan
has homonyms: knicks, nicks.] a L
creature originating in German being number 90 in a countable noological
folklore usually having the form of series.
half human and half fish and The party for the queen mother’s nopalry
usually unfriendly to humans. nonagesimal birthday paled in
The nix is the Germanic version of comparison with the celebration normality
the water monster we commonly honoring her hundredth birthday. n
call a “mermaid.” / nO(r)SmalEZG /
nonce L > F?
nobelium adj of a solution : concentration
/ SnBn(t)s / expressed in gram equivalents of
nobility E solute per liter.
occurring, used, or made only once The normality of a given solution
noble or for a special occasion. depends on its molarity as well as
adj The teacher could not challenge the the reaction that is undergone by
/ SnPbEl / spelling of the nonce terms Devon the oxidizing or reducing agent.
L sprinkled throughout his report.
resisting chemical action : normosplanchnic
chemically inert or inactive. nonet
All noble gases, with the exception n normothermia
of helium, have completely filled / nPSnet / n
outer subshells and therefore will L > It / TnOrmESthErmGE /
not react with other substances. a combination of nine instruments L + Gk
or voices; also : a musical typical body temperature.
noblesse composition for such a For small children, normothermia
combination. is often higher than it is in adults.
noctidiurnal Four violins, two violas, two cellos,
and a double bass made up the norns
noctilucence nonet. n pl
/ SnO(E)rnz /
nocturnality nonjoinder ON
goddesses presiding over personal
nodding nonnecessity destiny.
n Occasionally Roberta goes out and
noise / TnBnnDSsesEZG / buys something she cannot afford
L as a gesture of defiance of the
noisettes something that is not needed. norns.
n pl Gaynor’s suitcase exceeded the
/ nwESzets / weight limit, but she considered no norseller
L>F packed item a nonnecessity.
small rounded morsels of food. northabout
The noisettes of lamb are the local
French restaurant’s specialty of the northerly
house.
nolition
nomadism
Page 93 of 153
nosebleed notitia nutation
adj n
/ SnPzTblGd / notochord / n(y)VStCshEn /
E L
bleeding from the nose. notorious an involuntary nodding of the head.
Jim’s severe nosebleed finally adj When Harold started falling asleep
stopped after half an hour. / nPStPrGEs / in class, his nutation tipped off the
L teacher.
nosh being or constituting something
commonly known : well known. nuzzle
nosology Our town is notorious throughout v
the Midwest for noise and / SnEzEl /
nostrils pollution. E
n pl work with or as if with the nose :
/ SnBstrElz / nourish root.
E When the mare would nuzzle into
the external openings of the nose or nous his neck, Al would give her a pat
nasal cavity of a vertebrate. and gently push her away.
The bull’s wide eyes and flared novelettist
nostrils were signs that he was nyctitropism
unhappy. novella
n nymphal
notable / nPSvelE / adj
adj L / nim(p)fEl /
/ SnPZEbEl / a story with a compact and pointed Gk
L plot. of, relating to, or being an insect in
being of much weight, scope, or “The selection is not a major work the late larval stage of
significance : memorable. of fiction, but as a novella it is a development.
Despite his many successful gem,,” wrote Newsweek. The spinose ear tick attaches inside
cookbooks, Raoul felt that his most an animal’s ear during the
notable achievement was winning novelty parasitic larval and nymphal
the Iron Chef competition. stages.
novillada
notan nymphish
nowadays
notarization nymphs
noyau
notation nyssa
nth
note adj oatmeal
v / Sen(t)th /
/ SnPt / E obduce
L numbered with some unspecified or
record or fix in the mind or indefinitely large ordinal number. oberek
memory. The computer quietly crunched
Lorraine was pleased to note that through the numbers, figuring pi to object
she had been given the seat of the nth decimal.
honor at this year’s banquet. objection
nucleophilic
notion oblate
n nullo
/ SnPshEn / oblateness
L nummular
the meaning or context assigned by oblectation
the mind to a term. nunatak
The teacher admitted that his obley
notion of Abraham Lincoln’s oral nunciature
delivery came more from old obligatum
movies than from history books.
Page 94 of 153
oblige oceanic odorant
adj
obliging octagonal / SPdErEnt /
L>F>E
obliteration octennial that emits a scent.
At night, the odorant forests roar
oblivious octonocular with the dread sound of fierce
monsters.
obnebulate octopod
v adj odorivector
/ BbSnebyETlCt / / SBktETpBd /
L Gk oenophile
[Note: Could be confused with having eight feet, limbs, or arms.
obnubilate.] becloud, befog. The octopod robot walked with oenotherapy
The early morning haze will remarkable smoothness.
obnebulate the mountainscape. offbeat
octuple
obnubilation offeree
octuplicate
obrotund n officer
adj / BkSt(y)VplDkDt /
/ TBbrEStEnd / L officialese
L eight copies all alike—used with in.
nearly spherical but with one The documentation had to be officinal
diameter slightly exceeding the submitted in octuplicate so that
others. each judge could review it offscour
The obrotund object in the museum independently and simultaneously.
case was an old torpedo. oidioid
ocular
obscenity olden
odd
obscurative adj oleraceous
/ Bd /
observe ON > E oligarchical
v [has homonym and near homonym:
/ EbSzErv / od and awed] being any member of olivesheen
L a sequence of positive integers
conform one’s action or practice to beginning with one and counting olivine
: heed, obey. by twos : not divisible exactly by
Anyone who does not observe the two—opposed to even. oloroso
rules will have to go to detention Answers to the math problems that
hall. are designated by odd numbers are Olympian
in the back of the textbook. n
obsess / PSlimpGEn /
ode Gk geog name
obstinacy n a being of lofty detachment or
/ SPd / superior attainments.
obvolute Gk > L Standing beside the Olympian was
[has homonym: owed] a lyric a less conspicuous achiever who
occasional poem usually marked by particular was glad for his modest honors.
exaltation of feeling and style.
occidental Every element of the victory ode omissibility
was designed to praise the athlete.
occultism ommateal
odometer
occultist omnicompetent
odontalgia
occur
odontotomy
Page 95 of 153
once opportunity orienteering
adv n
/ SwEn(t)s / oppose / TPrGEnSti(E)riN /
E v L
one time and no more. / ESpPz / a cross-country race in which each
Cathy knows no one who has seen L participant uses a map and compass
The Wizard of Oz only once. [Note: Could be confused with to navigate between checkpoints
appose.] place over against along an unfamiliar course.
oncological something so as to provide Orienteering is used by the army as
resistance, counterbalance, or a way to train recruits in outdoor
oneirocritic contrast. survival skills.
Although Jim’s political beliefs
ongoing oppose Francine’s, the two are the origin
best of friends.
oolemma orlean
oppressor n
oologize / SOrlGEn /
opt Sp name > L > F
oops a red or yellowish red dyestuff
optical containing bixin prepared from the
opaline pulp surrounding the seeds of the
adj optically annatto tree.
/ SPpElIn / Orlean can be used as a food
Skt > L optimal coloring.
resembling especially in
appearance a mineral that is less orangeade ornate
dense than quartz and typically
with definite and often marked orbit orneriness
iridescent play of colors.
The fish’s opaline scales glimmered orc ornithophilous
softly in the aquarium.
orchesis orology
opaqueness n
orchestral / OSrBlEjG /
opaquer Gk
ordinary the science of mountains.
opening adj To Gina, a particularly fascinating
/ SO(r)dFnTerG / aspect of orology is the influence
operation L mountains have on precipitation.
n occurring or encountered in the
/ TBpESrCshEn / usual course of events : not orometry
L uncommon.
the quality or state of being The artist had a knack for taking orphans
functional—used with in or into. ordinary objects and turning them
The new factory has been in into works of art. orthodontist
operation for a few weeks.
ordnancemen orthography
ophiomorphic n
orfe / O(r)SthBgrEfG /
opinion Gk
orgeat a method of representing the
opinioned sounds of a language by written or
orhamwood printed symbols.
opisthenar After their conquest of England, the
oriency Norman invaders immediately took
oppenheimer to reforming English orthography.
orientation
opponency orthopter
Page 96 of 153
orthorhombic osteosarcoma overseas
adj
/ TO(r)JESrBmbik / otosclerosis overseer
Gk
of, relating to, or characterized by otosis overshoe
the crystal system characterized by n
three unequal axes at right angles. ouabain / SPvE(r)TshV /
Josquin did not understand the n E+E
difference between an / wBSbIDn / a shoe that is worn over another (as
orthorhombic and a tetragonal F? > ISV for extra warmth or for protection
crystal until he saw an illustration a very toxic compound obtained from wet); especially : a galosh.
of the crystal system. from the seeds of an African shrub Karl’s overshoe proved to be too
or tree that is used similarly to small to fit over his new shoe.
orthotics digitalis and in Africa as an arrow
poison. overslaugh
orwellian After being hit with an arrow
smeared with ouabain, the antelope overture
orzo ran about 50 yards and then fell.
n overvoltage
/ SOrd(T)zP / oud n
L > It / SPvE(r)TvPltij /
rice-shaped pasta. ought E + It name > ISV
Orzo is often cooked, then added to the excess potential required for the
thick Italian soups. ousia discharge of an ion at an electrode
over and above the equilibrium
oscillations ouster potential of the electrode.
Because the overvoltage required
osmagogue outburst to form oxygen is quite high,
chlorine is more likely than oxygen
osmics outright to form at the anode.
osmium outspoken overwhelmed

v
osmotic overboard / TPvE(r)S(h)welmd /
adj E
/ BzSmBZik / overhead subjected to the grip of an
Gk adv overpowering emotion.
of, relating to, or having the / TovE(r)Shed / Trudy was overwhelmed when she
property of the flow or diffusion E found out that she had the winning
that takes place through a above one’s head. lottery ticket.
semipermeable membrane typically The stewardess warned us that the
separating either a solvent and a contents of the compartments might overwhelming
solution or a dilute solution and a shift overhead during the flight.
concentrated solution. ovoviviparous
The large quantity of sugar in overindulgence
home-preserved jams and jellies owelty
helps to kill bacteria through overpowering
osmotic action that shrinks the adj owing
bacteria cells. / TPvE(r)SpaU(E)riN /
E+L>F>E owlets
osphretic exercising an irresistible influence :
overwhelming. owner
osteogenous Leslie’s overpowering garlic
adj breath kept his friends at arm’s oxer
/ TBstGSBjEnEs / length.
Gk + Gk oxidizable
originating in bone. overripe
Chemotherapy is used to treat
osteogenous cancer. overrule
Page 97 of 153
oxidize palberry panic
v n v
/ SBksETdIz / / SpalTb(E)rG / / Spanik /
Gk > F > ISV Austral > E Gk name
combine with oxygen or with more the edible berry of an Australian be stricken with a sudden terror
oxygen. tree. often accompanied by unreasoning
The sodium hypochlorite in bleach The palberry is sometimes referred or frantic efforts to secure safety.
can oxidize the color-bearing to as “native currant.” “Get in position and do not panic,”
substances in stains. said the teacher calmly when the
paleology tornado warning was announced.
oxyacetylene
paletot pannierman
oxygenic
palisades pannikin
oxyrhynch
palleting panornithic
ozonesonde
palmaceous panpipe
ozonizer
n paloma pansophism
/ SPTzPTnIzE(r) / n
Gk > G + Ecff / pESlPmE / pansophy
an apparatus for converting L > Sp
ordinary oxygen into ozone. any of several sharks used as food. Pantagruelism
One type of ozonizer works by Ling decided to be adventurous and n
passing a silent electric discharge ordered the grilled paloma. / TpantESgrVETlizEm /
through a current of oxygen or air. F name
paloverde buffoonery or coarse humor with a
pacific satirical purpose : cynical humor.
palsy Josh’s cynical humor is tiring to
pack everyone except those who enjoy
n pancetta Pantagruelism.
/ Spak / n
G>E / (T)panScheZE / pantaloons
[has homonym: pac] a group of L > It
usually wild animals of the same unsmoked bacon used in Italian pantheistic
kind congregating in herds, flocks, cuisine.
or schools; specifically : a group of Pancetta is cured with salt rather pantheress
predatory animals hunting together. than smoked.
A pack of wild dogs was reported pantomimic
to have killed sheep on several panchax
farms in the county. pantry
pandect
package paparazzo
pandemic
padding papeteries
pandit
padrone n papillon
/ SpandDt /
pail Skt > Hindi papoose
a Brahman expert in Sanskrit and in
paint the science, laws, and religion of parabolic
the Hindus.
paintbrush The temple’s senior priest was a parabomb
pandit from southern India.
palaka parabrake
paneity
pangrammatic
Page 98 of 153
parade parlatory passel
n n
/ pESrCd / parlay / SpasEl /
F L>F>E
a formal public procession : the parlor a large number : group.
movement of any body of people or n Mr. Jones is considering buying an
things marshaled in something like / SpBrlEr / old school bus so he can take his
military order. F>E passel of grandchildren on a cross-
The annual Thanksgiving Day a room used primarily for country trip.
parade featured many new floats conversation or the reception of
and balloons. guests. passerelle
“You are by yourself?” he asked,
paradiddle looking through the doorway into passionate
the parlor.
paradisiacal passkey
adj paroemiology
/ TparEdDSsIEkEl / Passover
Gk parole n
of, relating to, or resembling / SpasTPvEr /
paradise. paronychia L>F>E+E
Marjorie’s parents decided to an annual religious and spring
celebrate their 25th wedding parorexia agricultural festival of the Jews that
anniversary on a paradisiacal commemorates the liberation of the
tropical island. parotic Hebrews from slavery in Egypt.
At Passover, special dishes that
paralipomena parry symbolize various elements of the
v flight from Egypt are eaten.
parallelogram / SparG /
L > OProv > F paste
paralogistic [has near homonyms: peri, perry] v
ward off a weapon or blow by / SpCst /
paralytic means of a defensive action. Gk > L > F > E
Lola’s fencing opponent forced her [has homonym: paced] cause to
parament to parry repeatedly, and she lost adhere by or as if by means of a
ground quickly. soft plastic mixture or composition.
parameter “Let’s see if we can paste the
parson decorations on our masks without
paramilitary getting anything on our clothes,”
partition said the kindergarten teacher.
parandrus
n partway pasteboard
/ pESrandrEs / adv
Gk / SpBrtTwC / pasticcio
a mythical stag being able to L>F>E+E n
change colors like the chameleon. to some extent. / paSstG(T)chP /
When Vera learned what a There was a detour because the L > It
parandrus was, she immediately freeway was only partway finished. a musical composition or piece of
thought about the horse who pulled writing (as an opera or play) made
the carriage in Oz. partygoer up of selections from different
works.
parent passable The orchestra played a pasticcio of
works from the Romantic period.
parergal passageway
paresis
parget
parishioner
Page 99 of 153
pastina patricide peculation
n n n
/ pBSstGnE / / SpatrETsId / / TpekyESlCshEn /
L > It L L
very small bits of pasta used one that murders his or her own the act or practice of stealing or
especially in soup or broth. father. appropriating wrongfully to one’s
Pastina in the shape of little stars is The patricide expressed no remorse own use especially public money
usually served to babies and small before being sentenced to life entrusted to one’s care :
children. imprisonment. embezzlement.
The governor promised to crack
pastoralist patrilineal down on the peculation and
n inefficiency of state administrators.
/ Spast(E)rETlDst / patrix
L peculiarity
a breeder of cattle or sheep. patrolman
Mr. Chambers often dreams of pedagogic
quitting the urban rat race and patsy
becoming a pastoralist. pedant
patulously n
pastrycook / SpedFnt /
pavid L > It > F
patch one who is uninspired,
n pavlova unimaginative, or narrowly
/ Spach / n academic or who unduly
It? > E / paSvlPvE / emphasizes minutiae in the
[Note: The definition provided is Russ name presentation or use of knowledge.
not the one most commonly a dessert of Australian and New Harold got no respect from his
associated with this word.] a Zealand origin consisting of a colleagues on campus, all of whom
domestic fool or jester. meringue shell topped with viewed him as a mere pedant.
Stuart is playing a patch in the whipped cream and fruit.
school play. Pavlova was named for a famous pedicled
Russian ballerina.
patent pedigree
paycheck
patentee pedometer
peace
paternal peduncle
peanut
pathogenic pellicle
peasant
patience n pelycosaur
/ SpezFnt /
patient F>E pencil
one of a chiefly European class that
patriarchally tills the soil as small free penduline
adv landowners or hired laborers.
/ TpCtrGSBrkElG / The painting depicted a peasant penicillate
Gk + Ecf working with a hoe.
in a manner characteristic of or peninsulate
suggestive of a man regarded as peckish
father or founder (as of a race, penne
science, religion, or class of pectin n
people). / SpenTC /
After listening to his advisers, the peculate L > It
president patriarchally delivered short thick diagonally cut tubular
his decisions to be carried out. peculated pasta.
Penne is a sturdy pasta that is often
served with thick, hearty sauces.
Page 100 of 153

penniless perchance periapt
adv n
pennyroyal / pE(r)Schan(t)s / / SperGTapt /
n L>F>E+L>F>E Gk
/ SpenGTrOi(y)El / perhaps, possibly. a charm worn especially as a
F>E David hopes that perchance Fiona protection against disease or
a European perennial mint with saw his calculator in the lounge mischief : amulet.
small pungently aromatic leaves. and picked it up for him. Tonya’s research revealed that it
The pennyroyal makes a nice was not uncommon for soldiers to
ground cover and is known to repel perchlorinate wear a periapt into battle for
flies. v protection.
/ TpErSklPrETnCt /
pension L + Gk > ISV + L > F + Ecff perimeter
combine with the maximum
pensum amount of chlorine especially in period
place of hydrogen.
pentalogy Mr. Petty helped the students periodical
n perchlorinate the compound safely.
/ penStalEjG / periodontist
Gk + Gk percussion
a series of five closely related periotic
published works. percutaneous
Evelyn had read all but one novel periplus
in the pentalogy. percutaneously
periscii
pentarchy perduellion
peristalith
pentatonic peregrinations
peristaltic
pentryl perforce adj
/ TperESstOltik /
people performance Gk
n of, relating to, resulting from, or
pepper / pE(r)SfOrmEn(t)s / being successive waves of
L>F>E involuntary contraction passing
peptide a public presentation (as of a along the walls of the intestine or
n dramatic work). other hollow muscular structure
/ SpepTtId / Jennifer bought a ticket to a and forcing the contents onward.
Gk > G > ISV + ISVcf matinee performance of Giselle. What grandpa called indigestion,
any of a class of amides that are the doctor diagnosed as faulty
derived from two or more amino perfumery peristaltic action.
acids by combination of the amino
group of one acid with the carboxyl perfunctorily peristylar
group of another. adv
Two glycine molecules can join / pErSfENkt(E)rElG / periwinkle
together to form a peptide and one L
water molecule. in a manner characterized by perky
routine or superficiality. adj
perambulator The substitute teacher told the class / SpErkG /
rather perfunctorily not to run in L>F>E
percalines the halls. briskly self-assured.
Perky staffers were on hand to
percentage pergameneous greet the visitors to the theme park.
perlaceous
Page 101 of 153

perlingual pewterer philosophy
adj n
/ TpErSliNg(yE)wEl / pezograph / fDSlBs(E)fG /
L Gk
through or by way of the tongue. phantasmal a science that comprises logic,
Patients in the perlingual treatment ethics, aesthetics, metaphysics, and
group had results comparable to pharisaic epistemology.
those who received the medication Jeff’s study of philosophy enabled
intravenously. pharmacognosy him to make many cogent remarks
n regarding ethics in the workplace.
permeameter / TfBrmESkBgnEsG /
Gk philtrum
permillage a science dealing with the
composition, production, use, and phlebotomy
perorate history of drugs of plant and animal
v origin. phlogogenic
/ SperETrCt / Research in pharmacognosy led to
L the use of the heart stimulant phon
speak at length. digitalis, which is obtained from n
Granddad loves to perorate about the foxglove plant. / SfBn /
his experiences as a Grand Canyon Gk
trail guide. pharmacopedia [has homonyms: faun, fawn] the
unit of loudness level on a scale
perpetrate phenakistoscope beginning at 0 for the faintest
audible sound and corresponding to
perpetually phengite the decibel scale of sound intensity.
Jared fervently wished that his
persona phenom baby brother would cry at just 1
phon.
personable phenotype
phonemicize
perspicaciously philobiblist
n phonily
perspicuous / TfilESbiblDst /
Gk + Gk phonodeik
persuasive a lover of books.
The philobiblist had stacks of books phorometry
pert throughout the house, even in the
kitchen sink. phot
perverse n
philogynous / SfPt /
peskiness adj Gk
/ fDSlBjEnEs / the centimeter-gram-second unit of
pesto Gk illumination equal to 1 lumen per
n [Note: Base word could be square centimeter and therefore to
/ Spe(T)stP / confused with 10,000 luxes or about 929
L > It philogeny/phylogeny.] fond of footcandles.
a green spaghetti sauce made of women. In his lab report Richard was
green herbs, garlic, and olive oil. The philogynous James Bond required to note how many
Luigi put some spinach and basil always seems to have a beautiful footcandles are in 1 phot.
pesto on his spaghetti. woman at his side.
petiole philologaster
petitgrain
petroglyph
pettifoggery
Page 102 of 153

photolysis picksome pinata
n n
/ fPStBlEsDs / picosecond / TpGnSyBZE /
Gk L > It > Sp
chemical decomposition or pictorialization a decorated container filled with
dissociation by the action of radiant candies or other gifts and usually
energy (as light). pier suspended from the ceiling that
High-intensity ultraviolet light has blindfolded children try to break
been used to break down fats by pierce with a stick.
photolysis. The best part of Sadie’s birthday
piers party was the breaking of the
photostat n pl pinata.
/ Spi(E)rz /
phreatophyte L>E pincers
[has homonym: peers] structures
phthalate built out into the water on piles for pincette
use as landing places or pleasure
phthisiology resorts. pineal
n One of the huge piers at Myrtle
/ TthizGSBlEjG / Beach was destroyed by the pineapple
Gk hurricane.
[Note: Could be confused with pinecone
physiology.] the care, treatment, piezometry
and study of tuberculosis. pinhead
The expert in phthisiology reported pigsney
that up to 15 million Americans are pinion
estimated to have latent pigtail v
tuberculosis infections. / SpinyEn /
pikestaff F>E
phyllite [has homonym and near homonym:
pileiform pinyon and pinyin] disable or
phyllogenetic restrain by binding the arms usually
pillow to the body.
phyllophagous The police officer struggled to
adj pilotage pinion the suspect and radio for
/ fDSlBfEgEs / help at the same time.
Gk + Gk + Ecf pilpulist
feeding on leaves. pinking
Some farmers use pesticides to rid pimento
their crops of phyllophagous pint
insects. pimple n
/ SpInt /
physiolatry pinaceous L>F>E
any of various units of capacity
phytocidal pinacotheca equal to ½ quart.
Ben constantly argued that a lunch
picacho pinard consisting of four turkey
sandwiches, two apples, and a pint
pickpocket of milk was not enough for a
n growing boy.
/ SpikTpBkDt /
F&E + Gmc > F > E pinto
one who steals money or valuables
that someone is carrying in his or pinwheel
her pockets or on his or her person.
The pickpocket quickly disposed of piolet
his victim’s wallet after relieving it
of the money.
Page 103 of 153

pipetted plank pleat
v v
/ pISpeZEd / / SplaNk / plectridial
F E
transferred, drawn off, measured, cook and serve on a heavy board plenteous
or applied with a small piece of usually with an elaborate garnish.
apparatus which in simplest form Native Americans of the Northwest plenteously
consists of a narrow glass tube into used red cedar boards to plank
which liquid is drawn up by suction salmon and other fish. plesiosaur
and in which it is retained by
closing the upper end. plantable plesiosaurus
Dizzy warned her lab students
never to use their mouths to apply plantation pliancy
suction when they pipetted
solutions. plasticate plinth
pipkin plastisol ploce
pirate platitudinous plod
piratical platter plot

n v
piscifauna / SplaZE(r) / / SplBt /
F>E E
pistol a woman’s low-crowned hat that is plan or contrive.
distinctly flat in silhouette. Ogilvie refused to plot against his
pithy Atop the model’s head was a sister in spite of her treachery.
platter trimmed with a veil and a
pitta silk camellia. plugboard
pituitary platyopic plumb

v
pizza play / SplEm /
E
placket playgoer [has homonym: plum] examine
minutely and critically.
plaited playlet Heraclitus attempted to plumb the
depths of his soul, but never found
planar plaza its limit.
adj n
/ SplCnE(r) / / SplBzE / plumbing
L L > Sp
[has homonyms: plainer, planer] a public square in a city or town. plumicorn
lying in one surface defined by The summer festival was held n
three points. under the stars in the plaza. / SplVmETkOrn /
Section 13.4 of Kew’s textbook L
explained that a molecule with pleading one of the tufts of lengthened
three atoms can be either linear or feathers on the head of various
planar. pleasantry owls.
Paul’s cat’s hair is so long that it
plane pleased looks like she has a plumicorn in
adj front of each ear.
/ SplGzd /
L>F>E plunge
affected with or manifesting
pleasure : contented, gratified. plunger
Steve’s parents were extremely
pleased that he finally made the plural
honor roll.
Page 104 of 153

plutocracy podsnappery polenta
n
plutogoguery podunk / pPSlentE /
L > It
plutomania poetess mush originally made of chestnut
meal but now principally of
plutonian poetry cornmeal or sometimes of semolina
adj or farina.
/ plVStPnGEn / poignance Polenta is cooked very slowly on
Gk name top of the stove and can be cut into
grim and gloomy : harsh and poikilotherm slices after it cools.
unpleasing.
Some people would describe van pointedly poler
Gogh’s dark backgrounds as
“plutonian.” pointless polestar
pluvial
poitrel polity
pneumonectomy n
poivrade / SpBlEZG /
poach Gk
v poker political organization : civil order.
/ SpPch / n Walter claims that any form of
Gmc > F > E / SpPkE(r) / polity is more efficient, not morally
cook in a liquid kept just below the F? better, than none.
boiling point. one of several card games in which
The doctor told Betsy that she a player bets that the value of the pollard
should boil or poach her morning hand held is greater than the value
eggs to keep their calorie count of the hands held by the other pollee
down. players.
When Billy came home, he was pollex
pocket shocked to find his mother and her
n friends playing poker instead of pollinate
/ SpBkDt / bridge in the living room.
Gmc > F > E pollyanna
[Note: The definition provided is pokeweed
not the one most commonly polo
associated with this word.] an polarimetric n
English unit for hops equal to 168 adj / SpP(T)lP /
pounds. / pPTlarESmetrik / Balti
Cedric, the town’s brewmaster, was L > ISV + Gk > ISV a game of Asian origin played by
panicked to find only 1 pocket of of or relating to the use of an teams of three or four players
hops in the storeroom. instrument that determines the mounted on horseback and using
amount of polarization of light or mallets with long flexible handles
pococurante the proportion of polarized light in to drive a wooden ball down the
a partially polarized ray. field and through goalposts.
pod Oki told his niece that polarimetric The morning newspaper carried a
n observations helped him study the picture of Prince Charles playing
/ SpBd / interaction of plane-polarized light polo.
E and chiral molecules.
[Note: The definition provided is polonium
associated with this word. In polska
addition, word has near homonym: n
pawed.] a number of animals (as / SpPlTskE /
seals or whales) closely clustered Pol > Sw
together : school. a Swedish folk dance derived from
A pod of four or five whales was a Polish peasant dance.
about 50 yards starboard. The polska is usually danced to
music in a minor key.
Page 105 of 153

polyanthus pomology porcelainize
n
polydactylous / pPSmBlEjG / porch
L + Gk
polydentate the science of the cultivation of pores
adj fruits.
/ SpBlGTdenTtCt / John became familiar with fungi porkpie
Gk + L such as American brown rot, apple n
attached to the central atom in a rust, and banana freckle in his / SpP(E)rkTpI /
coordination complex by two or course in pomology. L>F>E+E
more bonds. a hat with a low telescoped crown,
Shara used a tripolyphosphate ponder flat top, and brim turned up all
atom as an example in her efforts v around or up in back and down in
to explain the difference between / SpBndE(r) / front.
polydentate ligands and other L>F>E While dancing in his movies, Fred
ligands. weigh in the mind. Astaire often wore a porkpie.
The setback forced Orson to
polyethylene ponder his position. position
n
polygenous pone / pESzishEn /
L
polyhedron pongee any of the postures of the feet and
n arms on which all steps and
polymorphic / pBnSjG / movements of classical ballet are
adj Chin based.
/ TpBlGSmOrfik / a thin soft clothing and curtain Mademoiselle Lebrun instructed
Gk + Gk fabric of Chinese origin woven the students to assume the first
having or occurring in several from uneven threads of raw silk position.
distinct forms. and possessing a characteristic ecru
The polymorphic wild foxes of or tan color. positive
Canada are of the red, smoky, and Sap’s grandmother, who lives in
silver types. China, sent her some curtains made positivity
of pongee.
polymythy postdoctoral
pontiff adj
polyphony n / postSdBkt(E)rEl /
/ SpBntDf / L+L
polypody L>F [Note: Speller might confuse
a high priest or chief religious doctoral with doctorial.] relating to,
polyptoton figure. awarded for, or engaged in
n Pope John Paul I was the Catholic advanced academic or professional
/ TpBlDpStPTtBn / pontiff for only one month. work after the attainment of a
Gk doctor’s degree.
the rhetorical repetition of a word ponytail It seems that Skye will always be a
in a different case, inflection, or student, for now he is immersed in
voice in the same sentence. poplin postdoctoral studies.
Tennyson’s “my own heart’s heart,
and ownest own” well illustrates popover postmark
polyptoton in English. n
/ SpBpTPvE(r) /
E+E
a quick bread made from a thin
batter of eggs, milk, and flour and
subjected in the first stage of
baking to such heat that steam
expands it into a hollow shell.
While a popover is delicious plain,
it can also be served with various
sweet or savory fillings.
Page 106 of 153

posttest powerhouse preexist
n v
/ Spos(t)Ttest / praseodymium / TprGigSzist /
L+L>F>E L
an examination given to students pratincolous have actual or real being before
after the completion of an (something).
instructional program to measure praxis The monuments on Easter Island
their achievement and the preexist written history.
effectiveness of the program. prayer
The teacher was mortified when n pregnant
half of her students failed the / Spra(a)(E)r / adj
posttest. L>F>E / SpregnEnt /
[Note: Could be confused with L
postulation preyer.] a solemn and humble containing unborn young within the
approach to a god or gods in word body.
potamic or thought, usually involving The zoo director called a press
beseeching, petition, confession, conference to announce that both
potent praise, or thanksgiving. female pandas are pregnant.
Calvin shut his eyes and said a
potion silent prayer before beginning the prehensible
n exam.
/ SpPshEn / prehensile
L preach
a liquid mixture or dose of a v prejudice
medicine or drug. / SprGch /
The princess declared haughtily L>F>E prepare
that she had no need for a love proclaim the gospel : discourse
potion. publicly on a religious subject or preponderating
from a text of Scripture.
potoo Dr. Mason is wont to preach the preprint
same sermon every Easter Sunday.
potshot presbytery
preacher
pottery preschooler
precipitous
pottle preshrink
n precrural
/ SpBZFl / pression
E preemergent
a liquid or dry measure equal to ½ adj pressure
gallon. / TprGDSmErjEnt /
The recipe in Ryan’s colonial L+L presybytery
cookbook calls for a pottle of used or occurring before seedlings
boiled milk. come forth or rise into view pretend
aboveground.
pouch Dramatic success in weed control preternatural
has been achieved with
poulterer preemergent herbicides. pretext
pound preempt pretty

n adj
/ SpaUnd / preengagement / SpriZG /
E n E
a unit of mass and weight equal to / TprGDnSgCjmEnt / pleasing by delicacy or grace.
16 avoirdupois ounces or 7,000 L + F + Ecf The pretty little garden on Prospect
grains or 0.45359237 kilogram. a prior obligation. Street was tended by Mrs. Walter’s
Donna’s first job was selling candy Valerie’s preengagement is a granddaughter.
by the pound at a bulk food store. commitment to baby-sit her
younger siblings. prewrap
Page 107 of 153

prideful productive pronto
adv
pridian proficiency / SprBn(T)tP /
adj n L > Sp
/ SpridGEn / / prESfishEnsG / quickly, promptly.
L L The principal bellowed, “Get in
of or relating to a previous day or the quality or state of being well here, pronto!”
to yesterday; also : former. advanced in an art, occupation, pronunciation
As the bills accumulated, Gina skill, or a branch of knowledge.
began to doubt her plan to restore Through steady practice the batter proofmark
the Victorian mansion to its pridian attained great proficiency at
glory. bunting the ball. propagandize
priggishness proficiently property

n
primary profilograph / SprBpE(r)ZG /
L
primigenial profiteer any article or object used in a play
or motion picture except painted
primiparous profundity scenery and actors’ costumes.
A large mirror was a stage
princess profusion property used in the first act.
printing prognathous prophetic
privateer prohibition prophetically
probabilism projectionist propjet

n
proclitic / prESjeksh(E)nDst / proponent
L
procrastinate one who operates a motion-picture proposal
projector.
procrastinating The skilled projectionist quickly proprietorial
v repaired the break in the film.
/ prPSkrastETnCZiN / proruption
L prolegomena
putting off intentionally and usually proscribe
habitually and for a reason held to prolegomenous
be reprehensible (as laziness, prosthetics
indifference to responsibility). prolificacy
The boss’s motto is that working prosthodontist
leaves no time for brooding or prolongate
procrastinating. protasis
promethium n
prodigality / SprBZEsDs /
promovent Gk
prodigiously the opening lines especially of a
promulgator drama or narrative poem :
product introduction.
n proneur In the protasis a narrator gives the
/ SprB(T)dEct / n background for the first scene of
L / prPSnEr / the play.
the number or magnitude resulting F
from the multiplication together of flatterer, eulogist. protector
two or more numbers or Mr. Dirking was a convincing
magnitudes. proneur and succeeded in
The product of 9 and 7 is 63. obtaining the most votes.
Page 108 of 153

protein protuberance psychodrama
n n n
/ SprPTtGn / / prPSt(y)Vb(E)rEn(t)s / / SsI(T)kPTdrBmE /
Gk > F + ISV L Gk + Gk
any of a very large class of the quality or state of being thrust a usually unrehearsed dramatic play
naturally occurring extremely forward or out. designed to afford catharsis and
complex combinations of amino The protuberance on the plank of social relearning for one or more of
acids. wood was easily sanded down. the participants from whose life
The dietician was concerned by the history the plot is abstracted.
amount of protein in Jenny’s daily proud The family members acted out a
diet. adj psychodrama of what went wrong
/ SpraUd / with their relationships.
Protestant L>F>E
n highly satisfied or pleased : elated. psychokinesis
/ SprBZEstEnt / Mike was proud to be a member of n
L the municipal police force. / TsI(T)kPkDSnGsDs /
a Christian not of a Roman Gk + Gk
Catholic or an Eastern church. proverb the production or alteration of
Mark, a staunch Protestant, felt out n motion by influence of the mind
of place during mass when the / SprBTvErb / without use of physical means.
friends he was visiting rose to take L The psychologist told of a gambler
communion. a brief epigrammatic saying that is who claimed he could influence the
a popular byword. fall of dice by psychokinesis.
protium Clark’s favorite proverb is “All
n work and no play makes Jack a dull psychorrhagy
/ SprPZGEm / boy.”
Gk + ISVcf provocateur psychosomatic
the ordinary light hydrogen isotope
of atomic mass 1. provocation psychosomatics
Protium, one of the two stable
isotopes of hydrogen, accounts for prowler publicize
99.985 percent of the naturally n
occurring hydrogen on Earth. / SpraUlE(r) / puckishness
E
protoconch one that roams over (an area) in a pudding
predatory manner; especially : a n
protonate sneak thief. / SpUdiN /
v Police warned residents to stay out E
/ SprPtFnTCt / of the park at night because there a usually boiled or baked
Gk + Ecf was a prowler on the loose. sweetened dessert of a soft, spongy,
add a positively charged or thick creamy consistency.
elementary particle to. proxemics After Gage had his wisdom teeth
Styro remembers the diagram of removed, he ate only rice pudding
how to protonate acetic acid proxy and milkshakes for three days.
molecules by thinking of a
horizontal Y. prudish pudginess
protostele pryingly pudibund
prototype psalmodist pudicity
protrusile psalter puerperal

adj
/ prPStrVsIl / pseudandry pugilant
L
so made that it can be thrust out. psilophyton pule
Only in slow motion could we see
the frog’s protrusile tongue snatch psittacine puli
the insect.
Page 109 of 153

pullet pupigerous purloiner
n
pullover pupil / pE(r)SlOinE(r) /
n L>F>E
pulpit / SpyVpDl / thief.
L The purloiner was apprehended as
pulpy a child or young person in school soon as he left the store.
or in the charge of a tutor or
pulsing instructor : student. purpura
v Every year at least one pupil in
/ SpElsiN / Miss Simpson’s kindergarten class purse
L + Ecf is already a skilled reader.
moving in beats or periodic spurts : pushover
vibrating with life, sound, or light. puppet
Jake’s legs were pulsing with the puttee
energy released as the waves puppetry
crashed on the dock under his feet. n pyramidal
/ SpEpDtrG /
pump L>F>E pyretic
n shows featuring small-scale figures
/ SpEmp / of human or other living beings pyrometallurgical
unknown often constructed with jointed adj
[Note: The definition provided is limbs and moved usually on a small / TpIrPTmeZFlSErjDkEl /
not the one most commonly stage by a rod or by hand from Gk + Gk + Ecff
associated with this word.] a low below or by strings or wires from of or relating to the chemical
shoe not fastened on and gripping above. science and technology that deals
the foot chiefly at the toe and heel. The children’s favorite with the extraction of metals from
Lois hobbled off the dance floor entertainment at the fair was the their ores, refining them, and
carrying a pump and its detached comical puppetry. preparing them for use and which
heel. depends on heat action (as roasting
purdah and smelting).
pumpkinseed The forest ranger told Sky that
puree pyrometallurgical processes are an
punctilio v important source of sulfur dioxide,
/ pyVSrC / a major component of acid rain.
punctiliously L>F
boil soft and then rub through a pyrope
punctuate sieve.
Geneva began to puree vegetables pyrostat
pungency for the baby when he was six n
months old. / SpIrETstat /
punji Gk + Gk
purfle any of various automatic devices
punt that when exposed to any
n purgatorial manifestation of fire actuate a
/ SpEnt / mechanism for giving a warning or
L>E purify for setting in operation a means of
[Note: The definition provided is v extinguishing the fire.
not the one most commonly / SpyUrETfI / Most commercial fire alarms
associated with this word. Also, L>F>E nowadays are not manual but are
similar word pont, with similar cleanse ceremonially. activated by a pyrostat.
definition, exists.] a long narrow In Native American religions the
flat-bottomed boat with square ends sweat lodge is used to purify the pyrotechnical
usually propelled with a pole. body and heal the spirit.
Peter stretched out in the punt and python
floated slowly to the other side of purity
the pond. quadder
punter quadrifilar
Page 110 of 153

quadrilingual quatrain quite
adj
/ TkwBdrESliNg(yE)wEl / quayside quittance
L n
speaking or having knowledge of quebrada / SkwitFn(t)s /
four languages. F
Mrs. Ramirez works for the State quelea the act of freeing or releasing;
Department as a quadrilingual specifically : discharge from a debt
interpreter. quenelles or an obligation.
Joseph offered his cousin an
quadrivium quersprung official deed of quittance, saying
that what he had already received
quadruple querulential was payment enough.
quadruplet quickstep quittor

n
quaesitum / SkwikTstep / quivered
E+E v
quagga a combination of short rapid dance / SkwivE(r)d /
n steps. Gmc? > F? E + Ecf
/ SkwagE / The competition judges will check shook or moved with slight
Bantu? > Afrikaans to make sure that the quickstep is tremulous motion : trembled.
a now-extinct wild ass of southern performed precisely in time to the When George talked about
Africa related to the zebras but with music. tomorrow’s race, his voice
stripes on the head, neck, and quivered with excitement.
forebody. quidditative
The quagga once roamed South quota
Africa in large herds, but quietly
overhunting led to its extinction in quote
the 1870s. quietude
rabbi
qualmishly quinary n
/ SraTbI /
quantities quinquagenary Heb > Gk > L
one acting as the official leader of a
quarrier quinquagesimal Jewish congregation and
performing various duties (as
quart quinquennially preaching, officiating at weddings
n adv and funerals).
/ SkwOrt / / kwinSkwenGElG / Aaron decided to become a rabbi in
L>F>E L his second year at the yeshiva.
a U.S. unit of liquid capacity equal every five years.
to ¼ gallon or 57.75 cubic inches. Marge’s high school class holds a rabbitlike
When the oil light in Kevin’s car reunion quinquennially, and each
came on, he stopped immediately time the intervening five years rabbitry
and added a quart of oil. seems shorter and shorter.
rabulistic
quashy quinsy
rachion
quasimodo quintuple
raciation
quassia quirk
quatenus quisqueite
quatercentenary quisutsch
quaternary quitclaim
Page 111 of 153

racket rangibility rapture
n n
/ SrakDt / rank / SrapchEr /
imit adj L
[has homonyms: rackett, racquet] / SraNk / Christ’s raising up of his true
noisy, disturbing, or objectionable E church and its members to a realm
talk or activity. having a heavy offensive smell. above Earth where the whole
Sojourner Truth said, “Where there There sat Ralph wreathed in smoke company will enjoy celestial bliss
is so much racket, there must be from a rank cigar. with its Lord.
something out of kilter.” A popular book series describes the
raclette Rankine struggles of a group of believers
adj who are left behind after the
racon / SraNkDn / rapture to fight the forces of
Scot name darkness.
raconteuse being, according to, or relating to
an absolute-temperature scale on rare
radially which the unit of measurement adj
adv equals a Fahrenheit degree and / Sra(a)(E)r /
/ SrCdGElG / according to which the freezing L>E
L + Ecf point of water is 491.67 degrees unusual, uncommon; specifically :
arranged or having parts arranged and the boiling point is 671.67 belonging to a small group or class.
like rays. degrees. Argon is classified as a rare gas,
Father Quinn’s diagram was The Rankine degree is only five- according to Larry’s basic
radially arranged with his goals ninths of the Kelvin degree, but the chemistry textbook.
placed in the center. 0 point of both scales is absolute
zero. rarefied
radicate
rankle rarity
radishes
rapidly rasceta
radium
rapparee rasp
rafale
rapper raspy
railhead n
/ SrapE(r) / Rastafarian
raisins F>E n
[Note: The definition provided is / TrBstESfBrGEn /
rake not the one most commonly Ethopian name
associated with this word. In an adherent of a religious cult that
raki addition, word has homonym: teaches the eventual redemption of
wrapper.] a short flat flexible steel blacks and their return to Africa
rallies sword made with a handle at each and venerates Haile Selassie as a
end and used in English folk god.
ramark dancing. The Rastafarian explained that his
The folk dancing teacher had Maia religion requires that he eat only
rambla use a stick instead of a rapper until natural and lightly cooked food.
her skills improved.
rampion ratio
rappini
ramrod ratoons
ramulus rauwolfia
rancio ravage
random ravehook
rangette ravenry
Page 112 of 153

razee recall reclining
v adj
razorbill / rDSkOl / / rDSklIniN /
E L
reactant summon forth a memory of : have a bending or curving gradually back
adj recollection or remembrance of. from the perpendicular.
/ rGSaktEnt / The photograph album made Tony The reclining figure in the painting
L recall many scenes from his bore a resemblance to Elmer Fudd.
of, relating to, or marked by a childhood.
substance that is transforming or recoilless
changing chemically. receded
Jayne, knowing the quantities of recollect
each reactant substance, calculated recent v
how much product would form. / TrekESlekt /
recessionary L
reactor adj call to mind.
/ rDSseshETnerG / Fran could not recollect where he
readable L had seen the waiter before.
of or relating to a period of reduced
real economic activity. recollection
A recessionary cycle is
realistic characterized by a rising recombine
adj unemployment rate, falling profits
/ TrGESlistik / and production, falling interest recompense
F rates, and decelerating inflation.
facing reality squarely : not reconciliation
impractical or visionary. recidivist
A realistic review of his prospects reconstitute
of reaching the summit convinced recidivous v
Ted to turn back. / rGSkBnztETt(y)Vt /
reciprocatory L
realization restore the composition of (as a
recitalist concentrated juice) by adding
really n water.
/ rDSsIZFlDst / Mitch decided to reconstitute the
ream L > F + Ecff canned tomato soup with milk
n one who performs programs of instead of plain water.
/ SrGm / vocal or instrumental music.
Ar > F > E The recitalist sang several recorder
a quantity of paper in lots that vary romantic arias from various
in the number of sheets included. operas. recourse
There are normally 500 sheets in a n
ream of copy paper. recitative / SrGTkP(E)rs /
L>F>E
reason reckon a turning to someone or something
v v in search of help, support,
/ SrGzFn / / SrekEn / protection, or safety.
F>E E If you lose your tickets, you have no
use the power of thinking so as to conclude on the basis of a recourse to obtain replacements.
arrive at conclusions. calculation or estimation.
George is able to reason brilliantly, As near as he can reckon, Mac has rectangular
but he seldom bothers. read a million pages in his life.
rectigrade
reassert reclama
rectilinearly
recalcitrate
rectipetality
Page 113 of 153

recto reelected refreshment
n v n
/ Srek(T)tP / / TrGDSlekZDd / / rDSfreshmEnt /
L L F > E + Ecf
a right-hand page (as of a book) selected (a person) by vote for something (as food or drink) that
usually carrying an odd page another term in office. restores strength and liveliness.
number. The candidate himself was not After watching the two-hour movie,
The librarian stamped the library’s surprised when he was not Dan decided it was time for some
name on the first recto following reelected. refreshment.
the copyright page of each new
book. reenact refrigerative
adj
redhibition reestablish / rDSfrijETrCZiv /
n v L
/ Tred(h)ESbishEn / / TrGDSstablish / tending to cool.
L L>F>E The fan had a refrigerative effect
an annulment of the sale of an set up, fix, or confirm again. on Frank’s overheated body.
article and return of it to the seller Mrs. Jackson thought that the start
because of some material defect. of the second semester would be a refutable
Dad is convinced that his new car good time to reestablish the class
is a lemon and has engaged an rules. refutatory
attorney who specializes in
consumer transactions and reevaluate regard
redhibition. v
/ TrGDSvalyETwCt / regards
redondilla L+L
examine and judge again regelate
redoubt concerning the worth, quality,
significance, amount, degree, or regenerative
redox condition of. adj
adj The company asked Chris to / rGSjenETrCZiv /
/ SrGTdBks / reevaluate the project’s potential L
L + Gk for profit. of, relating to, marked by, or using
[has near homonym: redux] of or a process of replacing or producing
relating to oxidation-reduction. reeve anew.
Juju’s comment that every basic The regenerative stage of a
chemistry student knows that reference perennial plant’s life cycle
metathesis is not a redox reaction generally takes place during the
was not welcome at the study reformatory winter months.
group. n
/ rDSfO(r)mETtPrG / regent
redroot L
a penal institution to which regie
reel especially young or first offenders
n are committed for training and regress
/ rGl / reformation.
E For stealing automobiles the regulatory
[has homonym: real] a lively dance juvenile was sent to a reformatory
of the Scottish highlanders marked until he reached the age of 18. reimburse
by circular figures and performed
with gliding movements. reformist
Several versions of the reel
migrated to the Americas from refract
Scotland.
Page 114 of 153

reincarnation remand repair
n v v
/ TrGTinTkBrSnCshEn / / rDSmand / / rDSpa(a)(E)r /
L L L>F>E
a fresh embodiment of someone or send (a person charged with a [Note: The definition provided is
something. crime) back into custody by court not the one most commonly
The reincarnation of our nation’s order. associated with this word.] go to a
colonial capital was initially The judge decided to remand the specified place for a specified
funded by an endowment made by prisoner to jail until his appeal purpose.
John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1926. could be considered. In his inaugural speech the
president indicated his desire to
reiteration remanet repair at once to the post voters
had assigned him.
rejectamenta remedy
n reparations
rejuvenation / SremEdG / n pl
L > AF > E / TrepESrCshEnz /
relegated something that relieves or cures a L
disease. the act of making amends, offering
relevancy Mom’s favorite remedy for a cold is expiation, or giving satisfaction for
n chicken soup and lots of rest. a wrong or injury.
/ SrelEvEnsG / The judge ordered the cat burglar
L reminiscences to make reparations to the victims
relation to the matter at hand. n pl of his crimes by standing guard
The search engine ranked the Web / TremESnisFn(t)sDz / outside their homes each night.
sites according to the relevancy to L
the word being searched. remembered experiences. repeated
The program about the history of adj
religioso jazz relied on reminiscences of / rDSpGZDd /
several older musicians. L>F>E
religious renewed or recurring again and
reminiscently again : frequent.
relish Mark was taken out of the game for
n remise his repeated fouls.
/ Srelish /
F>E remissible repent
a savory pickled or preserved food
prepared from mixed chopped remission repentance
vegetables or fruits and usually
served with meat. remoteness repercussive
Cameron put ketchup, onions, and
pickle relish on his hot dog. remount repetitiously
relleno remove replica
relocate reneger reportedly
reluctancy rennet repugnancy
reluctant rentable require
renunciation requisitorial
reseau
resemblance
residentiary
Page 115 of 153

resiniferous retrolental rheometer
n
resist returnable / rGSBmEZE(r) /
Gk + Gk
respell revelation an instrument for measuring the
v n flow of viscous substances.
/ rGSspell / / TrevESlCshEn / A rheometer is used for measuring
L > Ecf + Gmc > F > E L the flow properties of powders,
name the letters of again, anew, or an act of revealing or granules, and wet mixes in the drug
in another way. communicating divine truth. and cosmetic industries.
Marilyn gave her students a chance The humanist view is that religion
to respell all the misspelled words is a human creation rather than a rheophilic
in their essays. revelation from a god or gods.
rheumatoid
respirator revenuer
n rhexis
/ SrespETrCZE(r) / reverain
L rhinophonia
a device for protecting the reverent n
respiratory tract. / TrInESfPnGE /
Adam wore a filter respirator when reversal Gk + Gk
he worked in his laboratory. marked nasal resonance.
reverse The principal’s voice is so
respire characterized by rhinophonia that
reviler he is called “Mr. Quack” behind
respondent his back.
revisionist
ressaulted rhipidate
revivified
restive rhizoidal
revivify
resultant rhodochrosite
revocation
resurge rhumb
v revved
/ rDSsErj / rhynchophora
L rhabdomancy
[has homonym: reserge] rise again n rhythmization
: become resurrected. / SrabdETman(t)sG /
Byron wonders if negative feelings Gk ribat
toward his brother will resurge divination by rods or wands.
when his brother comes home from Harry Potter tried throwing a ribband
college. handful of rods on the floor, but he
didn’t know enough about ricer
resuscitative rhabdomancy to read the pattern. n
/ SrIsE(r) /
resuscitator rhapsodized Gk > It > F > E
a kitchen utensil designed for
retiary rhea pressing cooked soft vegetables or
uncooked soft foods through a
retool rhenium perforated container so that the
resulting product emerges as strings
retort about the diameter of a grain of
rice.
retraxit Jerry pushed all of the cooked
turnips through the ricer.
retroactive
richness
retrogressive
Page 116 of 153

rickettsial roble rootage
ridability robot roquelaure
ridgepole rochet rosace

n
ridgeway / SrBchDt / rosaline
F
ridicule a white ecclesiastical garment rosary
resembling a surplice worn n
riflery especially by bishops and / SrPz(E)rG /
privileged prelates. L
rightful The bishop entered the sanctuary a string of beads used in counting
wearing his rochet and miter. prayers.
rightless Eugenia’s collection of prayer
rocky beads includes a rosary that was
rigid blessed by the Pope.
rodeo
rigidity n rosella
/ SrPdGTP /
rigidly L > Sp rosemary
a public performance that features n
rijsttafel especially contests in calf roping / SrPzTmerG /
and bull riding. L>E
rimfire Little Mikey was only six, but he a fragrant shrubby mint that has a
took the blue ribbon for “Tiny Tot warm pungent bitterish taste and is
rimur Calf Roping” at the rodeo. used as a culinary herb and in
perfumery.
rinforzando roe Monique’s mother made her a cup
of tea flavored with rosemary.
ringside roentgenology
rosinweed
rinkafadda roey
n rostrular
/ SriNkESfBLE / rogation
IrGael rosy
an Irish dance resembling the roguishness adj
Virginia reel. / SrPzG /
Brendan loved to step dance, but he rollicksome Gk > L > E
refused to even try the rinkafadda. having a rose-colored complexion :
roman healthy, blooming.
risible Ally’s rosy appearance belies how
romaticism sick she feels.
risque
rongeur rotameter
rivalrous
roodle rotary
riverfront
rook rotorcraft
rivulose
rookie rotten
roadrunner n adj
/ SrUkG / / SrBtFn /
roadworthy (L > F)&E E
a new member of or candidate for decayed, putrid.
robber an athletic team. On at least one day every summer,
In 1963 Pete Rose was chosen as we put on our work clothes, go out
robin the National League’s Rookie of in the garden, and have a good old-
the Year. fashioned rotten tomato fight.
Page 117 of 153

roughrider ruffian sabbath
n
roughshod rugby / SsabEth /
n Heb > Gk > L > F > E
roulade / SrEgbG / the day of rest and solemn
E name assembly observed as sacred to
rousseauism a football game which is played God by Jews and some Christian
with an oval ball by teams of 15 churches on the seventh day of the
roustabout players each and in which play is week from sunset Friday until
continuous. sunset Saturday.
roustabouts After playing rugby for two hours, Orthodox Jews do not drive or ride
Terence was so dirty his mother in vehicles on the sabbath; if they
router made him rinse off outside under want to travel on Saturdays, they
the garden hose. must walk.
routineer
ruinous sabretache
rowan
n rumbustious sabreur
/ SraUEn /
Scand rummage sabulosity
a Eurasian tree with pinnate leaves
and flat corymbs of small white runesmith saccharide
flowers followed by red pomes
resembling berries—called also rung sacchariferous
“European mountain ash.”
The rowan at the edge of Aunt runnels sacque
Fiona’s garden was damaged n pl
during the ice storm. / SrEnFlz / sacrilege
E
royally rivulets, streamlets. saddle
The earthen dam gave way soon
rubasse after runnels of water zigzagged saddlebag
down its bank.
rubbish saddlebow
runny
rubbishly adj sadware
/ SrEnG /
rubellite E safecracking
excessively soft and liquid. n
rubidium The dough for the bran muffins / SsCfTkrakiN /
seemed much too runny to Tom. E+E
ruby the act or process of breaking into a
runway safe especially by explosives to
rucervine burglarize it.
rupee The robbers’ attempt at
ruckus safecracking was abruptly ended by
rupture the alert guard dogs.
rudd
rustler safety
ruff
v ruthenium sagittate
/ SrEf /
F rutidosis sailer
[has homonym: rough] play a
trump card when another suit is led. ryegrass sailor
Alice held so many trump cards
that she was able to ruff all but two
tricks of the bridge hand.
Page 118 of 153

saint salt saprobic
n n
/ SsCnt / / SsOlt / sapropelic
L>F>E E
one officially recognized or any of a class of compounds sapsucker
acknowledged as preeminent for typified by sodium chloride that are
consecration, holiness, and piety derived from acids by replacement sarothrum
especially through canonization by of part or all of the acid hydrogen
one of the branches of the Christian by a metal or radical acting like a sashayed
church. metal.
Elizabeth Seton, who founded the Before taking chemistry, Tak sashless
order of the Sisters of Charity of St. thought that all salt was the same.
Joseph, was the first native-born satanic
American to be canonized as a salvage
saint. satiny
samarium
saintly satirically
sambal
salable n satisfaction
/ SsBmTbBl /
salak Malay satrapy
a condiment made typically of
salamandroid peppers, pickles, grated coconut, saturable
salt fish, or fish roe and eaten
salangane especially with curry and rice in saturated
and around Indonesia and Malaya. adj
salaried Mindy ate a bowl of rice with / SsachETrCZEd /
vegetables and sambal for lunch. L
salience having the greatest concentration
sampans that can remain under given
saliently conditions (as of temperature and
samsonite pressure) in the presence of the
salify dissolved substance.
sanctimoniously Raising the temperature of a
salinelle saturated solution usually makes it
sandals no longer saturated because more
salinity solute can be dissolved at the
sander higher temperature.
salivate
v sandpiper saucerless
/ SsalETvCt /
L sandshoe sauterne
produce in the mouth an excessive n
flow of a secretion that serves to / SsandTshV / sautoir
lubricate ingested food. E+E
Whenever Alison thinks about a shoe (as a sneaker) designed for savagery
sushi, she begins to salivate. wear in sandy ground.
After a walk on the dunes, Sandra savarin
salsa stopped to retie her sandshoe.
n sawbuck
/ SsOlsE / sans
L > Sp sawhorse
popular music of Latin American sansculotte
origin that has absorbed sawtooth
characteristics of rhythm and blues, sansculottic
jazz, and rock. saxhorn
Salsa has given its name to a sapid
generic style of Latin American saxicolous
dancing. sapiens
Page 119 of 153

scabby scent scour
v
scalar / Ssent / scoured
L>F>E
scalding [has homonyms: cent, sent] use the scowl
olfactory organ in seeking or
scaler tracking prey. scrapbook
A hound will jump at the
scallions opportunity to scent squirrels and scrappy
rabbits.
scallom scratchy
schalstein
scalpriform screamer
scheduled
scan screech
v schismatical
/ Sskan / screed
L>E schlich
look through or over hastily. scribbling
The students asked the teacher if schnell
they could scan their notes for five scriber
minutes before the test. schokker
scrim
scandalous scholasticism n
/ Sskrim /
scandium schoolboyish unknown
a transparent theater drop or a
scansorial sciapodous transparent section in a drop that
appears opaque when a scene in
scant sciential front is lighted and transparent
when a scene in back is lighted.
scapular scintillator The play’s dream sequence was
performed behind a scrim to give
scarab sciolist the illusion of unreality.
scarf scission scrip
scathing scolopaceous scrivello
scaup scoop scrub
scazon scoot scrupulous
scenic scopious scrutineer

adj
/ SsGnik / scorch scuffle
Gk
affording or abounding in attractive scorching scum
scenery. adj
The Grand Canyon is one of / SskO(E)rchiN / scup
America’s greatest scenic Scand > E
attractions. burning or parching with intense scuppaug
heat.
With the temperature a scorching scurrilousness
98 degrees, it was simply too hot to
play outdoors. scurry
scoring
Page 120 of 153

scut secure semipermeable
n v adj
/ SskEt / / sDSkyU(E)r / / TsemGSpErmGEbEl /
unknown L L+L
the short erect tail of an animal and seize and confine a person : hold of or constituting a membrane that
especially a hare or rabbit. fast. is penetrable by some usually small
Haley found a rabbit’s scut on the The prison rules stated that the molecules (as of water or inorganic
barbed wire fence. guards were to secure all salts) but bars the passage of other
remaining prisoners in the event of usually larger particles (as protein
scuttled an escape. molecules).
Usually the size of a molecule
seaboot securely determines whether it will pass
n through a semipermeable
/ SsGTbVt / security membrane, but other factors are
E+E not well understood.
a very high waterproof boot used sedimentary
especially by sailors and fishermen. semiquaver
The sailor had no sooner taken off seditionary n
one seaboot than he was again / SsemGTkwCvE(r) /
summoned to the deck. seditious L+E
a sixteenth note in music.
seaborne seedbed The composer believed that every
adj semiquaver of her new symphony
/ SsGTbP(E)rn / seedy was perfect.
E
transported by ship. seer senator
China agreed to take measures to
prevent seaborne wood from seething senescence
introducing the pesky wood-eating
beetle to the United States. seicento seniority
seafarer seismatical senseless
seafowl seismograph sensitive
seapoose sejant sensual

n
/ SsGTpVs / selector sentence
Algonquian > E
a shallow inlet or tidal stream along selion sentimentalizing
the Long Island shore. v
Dirk floated a toy boat in the semanticize / TsentESmentFlTIziN /
seapoose. L + Ecff
semelfactive looking upon and imbuing with
season emotion.
semiarid Daren made the mistake of
secesssion sentimentalizing the politician as a
semifinal poor abused fellow.
secretaries
semilunar separable
secretion
septenarius
sectarian
sectile
sector
Page 121 of 153

septendecimal sermon shawl
adj n n
/ TsepTtenSdesEmEl / / SsErmEn / / SshOl /
L L Per
relating to the number 17 : based a religious discourse delivered in a usually square or oblong piece of
on the number 17. public usually by a clergyman as a fabric used especially as a covering
Rob mistakenly thought that once part of a worship service. for the head or shoulders.
he had lived beyond his John found the minister’s sermon Alexandra threw a shawl over her
septendecimal year he could do as unusually long and tedious but head and ran down the path to the
he pleased in his parents’ house. struggled to keep his mind on it. windmill.
septicization serology sheaf

n n
/ TseptEsDSzCshEn / serum / SshGf /
Gk > L + Ecff E
treatment of sewage by bacterial setting [Note: Could be confused with
action. chief, sheave.] a quantity of arrows
Engineers found a way to utilize the sexton sufficient to fill a quiver; also : the
gases produced by the septicization allowance of arrows (as 24) allotted
of sewage. sextuplet to each archer.
As a walk-on in the recently
septuplets sfogato released movie, Jason handed
n pl Robin Hood a sheaf of arrows for
/ sepStEplDts / sgabello his quiver.
L
a group of seven offspring born at sgraffito sheargrass
one birth.
In November 1997 many people in shad shearwater
the United States became
fascinated with the birth of shakuhachi sheaved
septuplets to a family in Iowa.
shalloon sheepish
sepulture
shameless sheepskin
sequacity n
shampoo / SshGpTskin /
sequestered E + ON > E
shamrock a document bearing record of
seraphically graduation from or of a degree
shandry conferred by an educational
serena institution.
shank Jesse was so proud of her
serfism sheepskin that she framed it and
shapeliness hung it in her den.
serialize
sharecropper sherry
serigraph
shark sherryvallies
serinette
sharkskin shigellosis
seriosity
sharp
sharpener
sharpshod
sharpshooter
Page 122 of 153

shimmered shock shorthanded
v n adj
/ SshimE(r)d / / SshBk / / SshO(E)rtThandDd /
E Gmc > F E+E
shone with a tremulous or fitful a state of profound depression of short of the regular or necessary
light : gleamed faintly. the vital processes of the body number of people.
As the patterns of moonlight characterized by pallor, rapid but Because the boys felt they had an
shifted, the frost-covered blades of weak pulse, anxiety, and nausea or advantage over their smaller
grass shimmered. vomiting. opponents, they agreed to play
Severe injuries in an automobile basketball shorthanded.
shimmy accident could cause a person to go
n into shock. should
/ SshimG /
F>E shogun showstopper
a jazz dance popular after World n
War I which is characterized by a shone / SshPTstBpE(r) /
shaking of the body from the v E+E
shoulders down. / SshPn / an act, song, or performer that wins
The shimmy enjoyed a brief E applause so prolonged as to
popularity among the flappers of [has homonym: shown] emitted interrupt a performance.
the 1920s. rays of light : beamed with steady The song “Memory” proved to be
radiance. the showstopper in the musical
shiner Shutters closed for many years Cats.
n were thrown open to let the
/ SshInE(r) / brilliant sunlight shine where it shrievalty
E hadn’t shone in so long.
black eye. shrine
Sporting a shiner, Clint said, “You shoo n
should see what the other guy looks / SshrIn /
like.” shoplifting L>E
shingler n an object, structure, or place that is
/ SshBpTliftiN / considered sacred by a religious
shingles E + ON > E group and that serves as the focus
n pl the stealing of goods on display in of the performance of some ritual.
/ SshiNgElz / a store. The Western Wall in Jerusalem is a
L>E Shoplifting becomes a serious Jewish shrine that receives millions
an acute inflammation of the problem for merchants especially of visitors annually.
sensory ganglia of spinal and around Christmas time.
cranial nerves that is associated shrivel
with a vesicular eruption and shortcake
neuralgic pains. n shrunken
Shingles kept Kyle out of school for / SshOrtTkCk /
two weeks. E + ON > E shuba
a sweet baked dough spread with
shinnery fruit and served cold. shuffle
Strawberry shortcake is a delicious v
shinplaster summer treat. / SshEfEl /
E
shiny shortening perform a dance with a dragging,
n sliding step.
shipboard / SshOrtFniN / As the dance marathon wore on,
E the tired participants began to
shipshape an edible fat used to make baked shuffle from side to side.
goods flaky or crumbly.
A good pie crust can be made with shutter
half a cup of shortening.
sial
sialagogue
Page 123 of 153

sibilance silver sinology
n
sibilatory similar / sISnBlEjG /
Chinese? > Ar > Gk > L > F + Gk
sibling simmer > Ecf
v [has homonym: cynology] the
sickish / SsimE(r) / study of the Chinese especially
adj imit E with reference to their language,
/ Ssikish / stew gently with a bubbling sound literature, history, and culture.
E below or just at the boiling point. Kim’s graduate work in sinology
making somewhat ill. The chef explained that the carrots led her to spend a semester at
A sickish odor filled the hospital should simmer in the broth for Heidelberg University’s Institute of
room. several minutes before the other Chinese Studies.
vegetables were added.
siesta sinople
n simoniac
/ sGSestE / sinuate
L > Sp simplicial
an afternoon nap or rest. sinus
Some Latin American countries sincere n
have extra periods of rush hour / SsInEs /
traffic as people go home for their single L
siesta. n a cavity in the substance of the
/ SsiNgEl / bone of the skull that usually
sieving L>F>E communicates with the nostrils and
a one-dollar bill. contains air.
siglum Maria searched her wallet for a Since Pauline has no frontal sinus,
single to give the cloak room she never gets bad sinus
signality attendant as a tip. headaches.
signet singlesticker siphorhinal
signifier singleton siriasis

n
signorina / SsiNgEltEn / sirop
L>F>E
Sikkimese a card (as in bridge) that is the only sisal
n pl one of its suit originally held in a
/ TsikESmGz / hand. situation
Indian geog name Daphne could see that she would
natives or inhabitants of the state of have a difficult time winning the sizzling
Sikkim in northeastern India. hand, since she held only a
Many Sikkimese believe that singleton of the trump suit. skate
certain mountains are protective n
deities. singsong / SskCt /
Gmc > F > D
silane sinistrad a shoe with a metal runner or a set
n of wheels fastened to the sole.
/ SsiTlCn / sinistration After a few laps around the rink,
ISV Jeff had to tighten up his skate.
any of several silicon hydrides sinkage
having the general formula skellum
analogous to that of hydrocarbons
of the methane series. skerrick
When exposed to air, some types of
silane will ignite spontaneously. sketchy
silencer skiametry
Page 124 of 153

skiff skunk slate
n adj
skiffle / SskENk / / SslCt /
Algonquian F>E
skiing any of various common New of the color of any of various grays
World mammals which eject an similar in color to common roofing
skim intensely malodorous secretion slates.
v when startled or attacked. The contractor recommends black
/ Sskim / Luckily the skunk has warning shutters and slate shingles for the
E coloration and is easy to recognize. house Karen’s family is building.
read, study, deal with, or examine
superficially and rapidly; skunkweed slavishly
specifically : glance through (as a n
book) for the chief ideas or the plot. / SskENkTwGd / slick
Haley often goes to the bookshop Algonquian + E
on Saturday mornings to skim the any of several offensive-smelling slickenside
current best sellers. herbs.
The skunkweed poked its nose slipper
skimmer through the surface of the swamp. n
n / SslipE(r) /
/ SskimE(r) / skydiving E
E a light low-cut shoe that is easily
a usually straw flat-crowned hat skyjack slipped on the foot.
with a wide straight brim. Fred’s puppy came running into
Dad had a photo of Grandpa at the skyjacking the room shaking a slipper in his
train station waving good-by with n mouth.
his skimmer. / SskITjakiN /
N > E + unknown slipstream
skin the commandeering of an airplane
in flight by the threat of violence. slither
skinny By skyjacking a passenger plane,
adj the terrorists intended to force the sloe
/ SskinG / authorities to release their
E imprisoned leader. sloeberry
thin and lacking flesh (as from
emaciation). slaked slogan
Barbara described Frank as “a
skinny little guy with a great sense slander sloop
of humor.” n
/ SslandE(r) / slough
skintight L>F>E
utterance of false charges or slovenliness
skit misrepresentations which defame
and damage reputation. sluiced
skua After the heated debate, one
candidate threatened to sue the slurp
skullcap other for slander because of his
n defamatory remarks. slurry
/ SskElTkap /
Scand > E + L > F > E slangkop slurvian
any of various close-fitting
brimless cloth caps for indoor or slanguage smallish
outdoor wear. adj
In a corner of the restaurant sat a slargando / SsmOlish /
solitary bearded man wearing a E
black skullcap and reading a slightly below normal size.
newspaper. Mr. Sidgwick bought a smallish
turkey for Thanksgiving.
Page 125 of 153

smallpox snare snitch
n n n
/ SsmOlTpBks / / Ssna(a)(E)r / / Ssnich /
E ON > E unknown
an acute contagious virus disease something by which one is one who gives incriminating
characterized by high fever and entangled or involved in evidence against someone,
skin eruptions which often result in difficulties; often : something especially an associate.
scar formation. deceptively attractive. A snitch tipped the police as to
A vaccine is available that will Danny has learned the hard way where they could find the robbery
prevent a person from contracting that a smile on the face of a suspect.
smallpox. dishonest salesperson can be a
snare. snivel
smattering v
n snazzy / SsnivEl /
/ SsmaZE(r)iN / E
imit? > E sneaker speak or act in a whining, sniffling,
an inconsiderable number or n tearful, or weakly emotional
amount especially of similar but / SsnGkE(r) / manner.
distinct individuals or parts : E Uncle Ron sternly told Susie not to
piecemeal collection. a shoe usually of canvas with a snivel when she asked for
After only a smattering of museum pliable rubber sole worn especially something.
goers showed interest in the for sports or hiking.
exhibit, it was replaced earlier than Chip complained that his mom had snook
originally planned. bought him the wrong kind of
sneaker for basketball. snooker
smileless n
sneer / SsnUkEr /
smirch n unknown
/ Ssni(E)r / pool played with 15 red balls
smiris G? having a value of 1 each and 6
an expression, remark, or saying variously colored balls having
smoothbore that manifests derision, disdain, or values of from 2 to 7 respectively
contempt. on which the striker may play only
smuggleable Roberto’s sneer hurt Rachel’s after pocketing a red ball.
feelings. Morris learned to play snooker
smuggler during his junior year abroad at a
n sniff British university.
/ SsmEg(E)lE(r) / v
G&D / Ssnif / snooty
one who imports or exports E
anything in violation of the draw air audibly up the nose. snout
customs laws. Klaus is wont to sniff at whatever n
The smuggler was arrested at the he does not like. / SsnaUt /
airport when cocaine was found in E
his luggage. snifter the human nose especially when
n large or grotesque.
snaffle / SsniftE(r) / Her scarlet eyes stared over her
E gruesomely fattened snout.
snaggletooth a large short-stemmed goblet with a
bowl narrowing toward the top in
snakily which the aroma of brandy can be
savored before drinking.
Heather poured a bit of calvados
into a snifter.
sniperscope
snipsnapsnorum
Page 126 of 153

snowshoe soda solvent
n n n
/ SsnPTshV / / SsPdE / / SsBlvEnt /
E+E Ar? > L > It L
a light oval frame that is the hygroscopic crystalline a liquid component of a solution
strengthened by two crosspieces anhydrous normal salt. present in greater amount than the
strung with thongs and attached to Soda, one of the constituents of solute.
the foot and that is used to enable a glass, used to be obtained from the “Obviously,” said Dr. Powers,
person to walk on soft snow ash of sea plants. ”the best solvent for a material is
without sinking. usually related to its chemical
The deeper the snow and the soilage structure.”
heavier the wearer, the larger the
snowshoe should be. solacement somatophyte
snuffer solate somatotonia
soapbush solderable somnifacient
sobeit soldering somnivolency
soberly solemnize somnolently
sobornost solenial sone

n
soccer solepiece / SsPn /
n L > ISV
/ SsBkEr / solicitudinous [has homonym: sewn] a subjective
shortened E form unit of loudness for a given listener
a game with 11 players on a side in solid equal to the loudness of a 1,000-
which the ball is advanced by adj cycle sound that has an intensity 40
kicking or by propelling it with any / SsBlDd / decibels above the listener’s own
part of the body except the hands L threshold.
and arms. having an interior filled with The sone is a more practical unit of
Worldwide, soccer is probably the matter. loudness than the phon, because
most popular team sport. The stalks of some plants are not sounds do not appear to increase
solid. proportionately with the number of
sockeye phons.
n solidarity
/ SsBTkI / songster
Salish dialect > E soligenous n
a small but very important Pacific / SsONztE(r) /
salmon attaining an average weight soliloquize E
of about five pounds and ascending one that is skilled in song.
rivers chiefly from the Columbia soluble The songster Cole Porter brought a
northward to spawn in late summer adj worldly enthusiasm to American
or fall. / SsBlyEbEl / musical comedy stage.
Tommy had to fight the sockeye for L
five minutes before finally landing susceptible of being dissolved in or soothsayer
it. as if in a fluid.
Salt and sugar are soluble in water. sophrosyne
socratically
sopranino
socratism
soprano
sorceress
sorites
Page 127 of 153

soroptimist spatha spindrift
sorosis spatialize spinster
sostenuto speakerphone spiracular

n
soteriology / SspGkE(r)TfPn / spiriform
E + Gk
souffle a combination microphone and spirited
loudspeaker device for two-way adj
soulful communication by telephone lines. / SspirDZDd /
Ruby turned on the speakerphone L
soulless so he could tend to the stove and full of life or vigor.
adj continue talking. The spirited debater delivered a
/ SsPllDs / persuasive speech.
E + Ecf special
having no manifestation of a spitzer
spiritual or moral nature. spectrology
After several years in a city they splacknuck
found soulless, Arthur and Sylvia speechifier
bought a dairy farm in Vermont. spleen
speedball
soundest n splendor
/ SspGdTbOl /
sounding E + ON > E splurge
a game resembling soccer but
sourdine permitting a ball caught in the air to splurgy
be passed with the hands.
sourwood The fourth grade played speedball spoil
at recess.
soutenu spoilage
spelunker
sovietologist spoilsport
sphenocephaly
spade spokeshave
spheroidize
spadeful spoliator
sphragistics
spaghettini spoor
sphygmometer n
spallation / SspU(E)r /
spicier D > Afrikaans
spanner adj a mark, a trail, a scent, a sound, or
/ SspIsGEr / droppings left by one that has
sparable L>F>E passed.
having more of a fragrance Moxie found the spoor of a cat in
spartanize suggestive of spices. the garden.
The new potpourri was much
spasmodically spicier than the old one. sporomorph
adv
/ spazSmBdDk(E)lG / spicigerous sporophore
Gk
in a sudden violent and temporary spikenard sportswear
manner.
Tupper spasmodically jerked his spiling spotlight
leg away from the blow.
spilth
spastic
spindle
Page 128 of 153

sprain squinch standard
v n
/ SsprCn / squint / SstandE(r)d /
unknown F>E
weaken by sudden and violent squirearch a pole or spear bearing some
twisting or wrenching. conspicuous object (as a banner) at
Unaccustomed to wearing high staatenbund the top formerly used to mark a
heels, Sarah might sprain her ankle rallying point, to signal, or to serve
if she tried to run in them. stabbing as an emblem.
Before Caesar entered the room, a
spreader stability messenger entered bearing his
standard.
sprig stabilizer
standing
springbok stachyose n
/ SstandiN /
spritsail staffage E
position or condition in society or
sprocket stagecoach in a profession.
Rumors about the mayor’s expense
spryness stagflation account have certainly hurt his
standing in the community.
spurnwater stagiary
standstill
squails staginess
staphylococci
squalidity stakeout
n staple
squandering / SstCkTaUt / n
v E+E / SstCpEl /
/ SskwBnd(E)riN / a surveillance maintained by one or E
unknown more police officers over an area or a small U-shaped wire both ends of
spending extravagantly or person suspected of criminal which are driven through layers of
wastefully. activity. thin and easily penetrable material
The wealthy heir was criticized for Police set up a stakeout at the (as paper or paperboard) and
squandering his inheritance at the intersection where drug dealers usually clinched to hold the layers
gambling casinos. were said to be doing business. together.
Leigh wanted to make a photocopy
square stalactites of the document, but first she had to
n remove the staple.
/ Sskwa(a)(E)r / stalag
L>F>E stapler
[Note: The definition provided is stamen
not the one most commonly n stapp
associated with this word.] a / SstCmDn / n
builder’s unit of floor or roof area L / Sstap /
equal to 100 square feet. [has near homonym: stamin] the Am name
The contractor told the Driscolls male reproductive organ of a a unit of force caused by
that they would need a square of flower. acceleration and equal to 1 G acting
roofing material to finish the job. When the honeybee touched the on a body for 1 second.
stamen, pollen stuck to its legs. Astronauts commonly use the stapp
squat when referring to the G-forces
endured at takeoff.
squatter
starer
squdgy
starling
squeak
startling
Page 129 of 153

stases steel sterling
n adj
stash / SstGl / / SstErliN /
E E
station [has homonyms: steal, stele] of full value or first quality :
n commercial iron that contains conforming to the highest standard
/ SstCshEn / carbon in any amount up to about : genuine.
L 1.7 percent. The recipient of the Citizen of the
the place or position in which Changing the carbon content of Year award was cited for her
something or someone stands or is steel greatly affects its malleability. sterling character and matchless
assigned to stand or remain; as : a energy.
post of duty. steely
Just before the mock fire drill each sternum
member of the observation team steeplejack
took his station. n sternutator
/ SstGpElTjak / n
statolatry E / SstErnyETtCZEr /
one whose work is building or L
status repairing smokestacks, towers, or an agent that induces a flow of
n steeples. nasal secretion or causes sneezing.
/ SstaZEs / The steeplejack found a stalk of A gaseous sternutator was used
L corn growing atop the belfry. against soldiers in World War I.
position or rank in relation to
others. stegosaurian sternway
Fernando’s status in the company
changed dramatically after he stelliferous stethoscopy
completed his degree.
stellify stew
stauroscope v
stenography / Sst(y)V /
stave Gk > L > F > E
stenophagous cook in a little liquid over a gentle
steadfast fire without boiling.
stenosis It is sometimes advisable to stew an
steadfastly older chicken rather than roast it.
adv stere
/ SstedTfastlG / n sthene
E / Ssti(E)r / n
in a firmly established manner. Gk > F / SsthGn /
The castle steadfastly weathered [has homonym: steer] a metric unit Gk > ISV
the storms through the ages. of volume equal to 1 cubic meter. a meter-kilogram-second absolute
The stere is the metric counterpart unit of force equal to 1,000
steam of the cord, which is 128 cubic feet newtons or 100 million dynes.
v of stacked wood. Part of Nick’s physics homework
/ SstGm / consisted of converting
E stereognosis measurements from the newton to
cook by direct exposure to or in a n the sthene to the dyne.
vessel surrounded by the vapor of / TsterGBgSnPsDs /
liquid heated to the boiling point. Gk + Gk stichomythia
Some cooks like to steam ability to perceive or the perception n
vegetables in broth rather than in of material qualities (as form, / TstikESmithGE /
water for added flavor. weight) of an object by handling or Gk
lifting it : tactile recognition. dialogue especially of altercation or
To test his stereognosis after his dispute delivered in alternating
head injury, Barry was blindfolded lines (as in classical Greek drama).
and handed different shapes to fit The argument continued in
into a form board. stichomythia until the characters
realized the futility of such
stereopsis bickering.
Page 130 of 153

stickleback stipple stout
adj
stickler stipulate / SstaUt /
v Gmc > F > E
sticky / SstipyETlCt / characterized by physical or moral
adj L bravery : courageous, valiant.
/ SstikG / make an express demand for some The scoutmaster praised Jim,
E term in an agreement. referring to him as “a brave lad
having the quality of adhering. Many corporations who allow with a stout heart.”
The sticky gum would not come off employees to telecommute also stoutly
of Ann’s finger. stipulate the working hours and
equipment to be used. stovepipe
stiffener n
stitch / SstPvTpIp /
stigma v G>D>E+E
/ Sstich / a very tall silk hat.
stigmata E In honor of Lincoln’s birthday,
fasten, join, or close with or as if David, wearing a frock coat,
stilb with loops of thread. stovepipe, and false beard, recited
n The brain surgeon was justly the “Gettysburg Address” for the
/ Sstilb / famous for the speed and skill with class.
Gk > ISV which she could stitch.
a centimeter-gram-second unit of stow
brightness equal to 1 candle per stomachic
square centimeter of cross section straddle
perpendicular to the rays. stomatitic
The luminous paint on a watch dial stragglingly
usually registers only a tiny stone
fraction of a stilb. n strait
/ SstPn /
stiletto E stramineous
stilt not the one most commonly straphangers
n associated with this word.] an
/ Sstilt / official British unit of weight equal strawberry
E to 14 pounds. n
one of two poles each with a rest or Elizabeth’s New Year’s resolution / SstrOTberG /
strap for the foot used to elevate the is to lose 1 stone before the arrival E
wearer above the ground in of summer. [Note: The definition provided is
walking. not the one most commonly
Waldo had to add the length of the stool associated with this word.] a small
stilt to his leg length to get the n mark or bruise that is of a moderate
proper trouser measurement for his / SstVl / red or purplish red color.
clown costume. E The strawberry on Martha’s thigh
a device for sitting usually is a birthmark.
stimulate consisting of a single wooden or
upholstered seat without back or strawbreadth
stingray arms supported by three or four
legs or by a central pedestal. streetscape
stinkstone The actor playing the court jester
n sat on a low stool near the king’s streptococcus
/ SstiNkTstPn / throne.
E stretchable
a stone that emits a fetid smell on stopwatch adj
being struck or rubbed owing to / SstrechEbEl /
decomposition of organic matter. storis E
Stinkstone, a variety of limestone, capable of being extended.
is also called swinestone. storyteller The kitten tugged at Alvin’s
stretchable sock.
Page 131 of 153

strictness stuff subdued
v adj
stridency / SstEf / / sEbSd(y)Vd /
F>E L
stridulous prepare (meat or vegetables) for reduced or lacking in force or
cooking or eating by filling or intensity.
stringendo lining with a seasoned mixture. The subdued dog could become
Bella plans to stuff the turkey with ferocious when threatened.
stripling a mixture of cornbread, sausage,
and onions. subereous
stromatolite
stuffily subfebrile
strong
adj stuffy subjacent
/ SstrON / adj adj
E / SstEfG / / TsEbSjCsFnt /
having great muscular power. F>E L
Johnny is as strong as a bull. oppressive to the breathing. lying under or below.
The air in the tunnel leading into The hills and subjacent valleys
stronghold the pyramid was stuffy. were cloaked in the heavy, wet
n snow.
/ SstrONThPld / stultify
E subjective
a fortified place. stummel
As the marching soldiers crested sublease
the hill, the duke’s stronghold came stupefacient
into view. sublunary
stupor adj
strophe n / SsEblVTnerG /
/ Sst(y)VpE(r) / L
strophic L characteristic of or pertinent to this
adj a chiefly mental condition marked world : terrestrial, mundane.
/ SstrBfik / by absence of spontaneous One suffragette declared that men
Gk movement, greatly diminished had undertaken the “absolute
relating to, containing, or responsiveness to stimulation, and control of all sublunary matters.”
consisting of a rhythmic system usually impaired consciousness. submerge
composed of two or more lines After staying up all night to study,
repeated as a unit. Ellen ended up taking her exam in suborning
The strophic pattern of the poem a stupor.
helped Miriam memorize it. subphylum
styliform
structural subplot
stymieing
stucco subreptary
subconscious
stuccowork subreption
subcontraoctave
studied subscribe
subcortex
study
v subculture
/ SstEdG /
L subdermal
apply the mind to the acquirement
of knowledge.
Flora helped her roommate to
study for her exam.
Page 132 of 153

subshell sudatory sundown
n n
/ SsEbTshel / sudorific / SsEnTdaUn /
L>E+E E+E
any of the one or more spaces sugarloaf [Note: The definition provided is
occupied by the orbits of a group of not the one most commonly
electrons of approximately equal suite associated with this word.] a broad-
energy surrounding the nucleus of brimmed hat for women.
an atom. sulcus Diane put on a straw sundown and
Fred explained that most elements took a stroll on the gorgeous
have more than one subshell of sulfofying beach.
electrons.
sulky sundry
substantive
sullenly sunflower
subsume adj
summit / SsEnTflaU(E)r /
subtle E+L>F>E
summons of or resembling any of various
subtrahend n pl plants with large yellow-rayed
n / SsEmEnz / flower heads bearing edible seeds
/ SsEbtrEThend / F>E that yield an edible oil.
L a warning or citation to appear in The brown iris was slashed with
a quantity that is to be deducted court. yellow, the color of sunflower
from a minuend in the As an eyewitness to the robbery, honey.
mathematical operation of Alicia received a summons to give
subtraction. testimony in court. sunny
In the equation 14 – 8 = 6, 8 is the adj
subtrahend. sumo / SsEnG /
n E
subtuberant / SsV(T)mP / [has homonym: sonny]
Jpn characterized by brilliant sunlight.
suburban a Japanese form of wrestling in Mo added a sunny porch to the
adj which a contestant loses the match back of her house.
/ sESbErbEn / if he is forced out of the ring or if
L any part of his body except his feet sunstone
of, relating to, inhabiting, or touches the ground.
located in the residential area on As part of their study of Japanese sunstroke
the outskirts of any city or large culture, the class watched an hour n
town. of sumo on ESPN. / SsEnTstrPk /
The farm on which George spent E
his childhood years has been sumptuously heatstroke caused by direct
swallowed up in suburban sprawl. exposure to the Sun.
sunbonnet Sharon suffered a sunstroke when
succinctness n she ran the marathon in mid-
/ SsEnTbBnDt / August.
sucrose E+L>F>E
n a woman’s bonnet with a wide brim superabundant
/ SsVTkrPs / framing the face and usually having adj
F > ISV + L > Ecf a ruffle at the back to protect the / TsVpE(r)ESbEndEnt /
a sweet water-soluble sugar that neck from the sun. L
occurs naturally in most land plants Meghan was so fair-skinned that being considerably more than is
especially in the juices, fruits, and she never left the house without a sufficient.
roots. sunbonnet. The cheerleader’s superabundant
Sucrose was the last in a long list zeal was a little sickening to Carla.
of organic substances whose
chemical formulas Callie had to superannuate
memorize that night.
Page 133 of 153

supercool suppletory suspenders
v n pl
/ SsVpErTkVl / supply / sESspendE(r)z /
L+F L > F > E + Ecf
reduce in temperature to below the suppositional two supporting bands of elastic,
freezing point without leather, or cloth worn across the
solidification or crystallization. surcharge shoulders and fastened at the
Tage had to first supercool the n waistline to trousers or a skirt.
liquid and then be careful not to / SsErTchBrj / They had worn their coats to town,
stir it; otherwise, it would quickly F>E but they ate in their striped shirts
solidify. a price demanded for a thing or and suspenders.
service in excess of the usual or
superego normal amount. suspiration
The overnight delivery service has
superencipherment a steep surcharge for weekend swampy
n delivery.
/ TsVpE(r)DnSsIfE(r)mEnt / swarm
L + L + Ar > L > F + Ecf surcingle n
converting into code what already / SswO(E)rm /
is a cryptogram especially in code. surmisable E
Jason is an ace code breaker and a great often overwhelming number
has recently become interested in surmountable usually in motion and especially
superencipherment. adj migratory : a dense moving crowd
/ TsErSmaUntEbEl / or throng.
supererogate F > E + Ecf A swarm of preteen girls and their
capable of being overcome. parents headed for the entrance
supererogatory Quentin is confident that most of doors of the concert hall.
the problems associated with his
superimposable learning disability are swarming
adj surmountable.
/ TsVpErDmSpPzEbEl / swartrutter
L surprising
capable of covering or of being swedes
covered. surrealist n pl
If a superimposable ion or / SswGdz /
molecule is placed over the other, surrogacy D>G
the positions of all the atoms will [Note: The definition provided is
match. surveil not the one most commonly
associated with this word.]
superrational suspend rutabagas.
adj v The farmer’s shed was filled with
/ TsVpE(r)SrashEnFl / / sESspend / baskets of potatoes, swedes, and
L L turnips.
transcending the power of reason. hang so as to be free on all sides
Many novelists address the except at the point of support. sweet
superrational aspects of love in Tony will suspend a tennis ball adj
their works. from the garage ceiling to help him / SswGt /
know how far he can drive into the E
supplant garage. pleasing to the smell : fragrant.
v Kara’s mother loves the sweet
/ sESplant / suspended smell of gardenia blossoms.
L>F>E adj
take the place of : oust from a / sESspendDd /
position and serve as a substitute L
for especially by reason of superior withheld for a time under specified
excellence or power. conditions.
Harry’s goal is to supplant the Because this offense was his first,
current floor supervisor. Mike was given a suspended
sentence instead of a jail term.
Page 134 of 153

swing synchronization tack
n n v
/ SswiN / / TsiNkrEnDSzCshEn / / Stak /
E Gk + Gk + Ecff E
jazz dancing in moderate tempo the act or result of making nail, pin, or affix with small sharp-
with a peculiar lilting syncopation. dialogue, music, or sound effects pointed, broad-headed nails.
Martin urged Rhonda to learn the exactly simultaneous with the The landlady told Tristan that
swing with him. action shown in a motion picture. although hanging large pictures
The synchronization in early was not permissible, he could tack
switch foreign movies was sometimes a calendar to the wall.
ludicrous, with mouths moving
switchback when no speech was heard. tacker
n
/ SswichTbak / synchronize tact
D? + E n
a zigzag road or trail in a synclastic / Stakt /
mountainous region. L
The switchback was so steep that syncretize [has homonym: tacked] a keen
Amber had to back her truck up the sense of what to do or say in a
next leg rather than turn around synodal difficult or delicate situation in
and go forward. order to maintain good relations
synonymical with others or avoid offense :
swizzle diplomacy.
syntactician Tact is an inestimable quality in an
syagush administrative assistant.
syntality
sycophants taffy
synusia
sycosis tagliarini
systaltic
syllabary tailspin
system
syllabic taintless
tabasco
syllepsis talking
tablets
symbiotically talmouse
tachyarrhythmia
symblepharon Talmud
tachygrapher n
sympatry / StBlTmUd /
tacitly Heb
symptomatic adv the authoritative body of Jewish
/ StasDtlG / law and tradition developed on the
synanthous L + Ecf basis of the scriptural law after the
in a manner that is implied or closing of the Pentateuchal text
synchnocarpous indicated but not actually about 400 B.C.
expressed. Benjamin studied Torah and
synchronistic The school administration does not Talmud at the yeshiva.
enforce the dress code, perhaps
tacitly acknowledging that it needs talmudism
to be changed.
talmudist
talon
talus
tammy
Page 135 of 153

tangled tasteless tearjerker
adj n
tantalum / StCstlDs / / Sti(E)rTjErkE(r) /
E + Ecf E+E
Taoism having no flavor. an extravagantly pathetic story,
n Giorgio, the son of a jeweler, was play, film, or radio or television
/ StaUTizEm / amused to hear his chemistry program.
Chin + Ecf professor describe diamonds as The movie turned out to be a two-
a religion and philosophy of China tasteless. hankie tearjerker.
traditionally founded by Lao-tzu in
the sixth century B.C. tatouay teasel
Many of the 20 million adherents of
Taoism practice tai chi and tatters teaspoon
Chinese herbal medicine. n
Taurus / StGTspUn /
taperer Chin + E
tautness a small commonly silver spoon
tapeworm suitable for stirring and sipping tea
tautomerism or coffee and having a standard
taphonomy capacity of 1/3 tablespoon.
n tawniness William realized that he had used a
/ taSfBnEmG / tablespoon of yeast instead of a
Gk taxidermist teaspoon, which led to the overflow
the study of the processes (as of bread dough from the oven.
burial, decay, and preservation) that taxidermy
affect animal and plant remains as technetium
they become fossils. taxonomy
The archaeology department n technocrat
frequently calls upon a consultant / takSsBnEmG /
whose expertise is in taphonomy. Gk + Gk technophobia
the study of the general principles
tapissier of scientific classification. tectiform
No one was surprised when the
tarboosh course in taxonomy began with a tectonosphere
discussion of Swedish botanist Carl n
targhee von Linné and his method of / tekStBnETsfi(E)r /
binomial nomenclature. Gk + Gk
tarry the zone within Earth in which
taxophily crustal movements originate.
tartareous The geologist specialized in the
tchaviche study of the evolution and structure
tartarly of Earth’s tectonosphere.
teacher
tartrazine teething
team
tasajillo n teethless
/ StGm /
taskmaster E telautograph
[has homonym: teem] two or more
tasteful horses, oxen, or other draft animals telecast
harnessed to the same vehicle (as a
coach, wagon, sled) or to the same telegraphy
plow or other implement.
A team of mules pulled a wagon telencephalon
along the street of the recreated
gold-mining town. teleological
telepathically
Page 136 of 153

telepathy tenseness tessera
n
telestich / Sten(t)snDs / tetanogenic
L + Ecf
tellurian the quality or state of being tetra
stretched tight.
tellurium As the starting time for the race got tetrachloride
closer, Brian’s tenseness increased. n
temple / StetrETklPrId /
n tentiform Gk
/ StempEl / a compound containing four atoms
L tenure of chlorine with another element or
an edifice dedicated to the worship radical.
of a deity. teonanacatl Carbon tetrachloride is a useful
The Johnsons admired the stately organic solvent.
architecture of the Mormon temple terbium
on their trip to Salt Lake City. tetradactyl
teredos
tempo tetrahedral
n tergiferous adj
/ Stem(T)pP / / StetrEThGdrEl /
L > It tergiversator Gk
rate of motion. having or made up of four sides.
The frenzied dance slowed to a tergiversatory Sid remembered that a tetrahedral
gentle, lyrical tempo. molecule is made up of five atoms
teriyaki with one at the center and the other
temporality four at each corner.
termolecular
tenace adj tetralemma
/ StErmETlekyElEr / n
tenant L+L / TtetrESlemE /
relating to or formed from three Gk
tenderfoot molecules. an argument analogous to a
Because a termolecular reaction is dilemma but presenting four
tenderize the result of the simultaneous alternatives in the premises.
encounter of three molecules, very When Rachel received four equally
tendinitis few termolecular reactions occur. attractive invitations to the prom,
she decided to draw straws to solve
tendinous tern the tetralemma.
tenor terpsichore tetramerous
tenorless terraciform tetrapteron
tenpins terran tetraptych

n pl n
/ StenTpinz / / SterEn / tetrastoon
E+E L
a bowling game using ten bottle- Earth inhabitant. tetrazzini
shaped bowling pins and a large “The terran departed Hartux
ball and allowing each player to Station three hours ago at warp thallium
bowl two balls in each of ten speed,” said Glarg.
frames. thalweg
Rip van Winkle played tenpins with terreplein
the strange little men. thankless
territoriality
tensely thawless
tessellate
Page 137 of 153

theatricality thermohydrometer thingummy
n n
/ thGTatrESkalEZH / / TthEr(T)mPhISdrBmEZE(r) / thirdborough
Gk + Ecff Gk n
the quality or state of having the an instrument for measuring the / SthErdTbEr(T)P /
characteristics of a stage play or an specific gravity of a liquid E
actor’s performance. containing an instrument for a former English peace officer
The exaggerated gestures and measuring the temperature of the especially of a tithing.
movements are part of the actor’s liquid under test. Old Mr. Hawkins has been the
theatricality. Stan took readings from the thirdborough of Warwickshire for
thermohydrometer every five the last two years.
theatrically minutes throughout the experiment.
thixotropy
theft thermophilic
thong
theme thermopile n
n / SthON /
thence / SthErmETpIl / E
Gk + L > F > E a sandal held on the foot by a strap
theocratic a thermoelectric battery. between the toes.
The thermopile is used in conection As Sarah walked down the marble
theologize with a galvanometer for measuring hallway, her every step was
minute quantities of radiant heat. sounded by a slapping thong.
theophobia
n thermoset thonnier
/ TthG(T)PSfPbGE / adj
Gk + Gk / SthErmETset / thoracostomy
dread of the wrath of God. Gk + E
In his theophobia, Brennan was relatively incapable of softening or thorium
sure that the thunderstorm was fusing when heated.
directed specifically at him. Thermoset plastics are sometimes thorny
used in manufacturing industrial adj
theoretically molds. / SthOrnG /
E
thereupon thermotropism beset with trials, vexations,
obstacles, or other difficulties.
thermochemical theta Grading papers is often a thorny
adj problem for teachers.
/ TJErmPSkemDkEl / theurgist
Gk those
of, relating to, or obtained by the theurgy
branch of chemistry that deals with n thousandth
the relations existing between heat / SthG(T)ErjG /
and chemical reaction or physical Gk thrasonical
changes of state. the art of compelling or persuading adj
George’s comparison of a god or beneficent supernatural / thrCSsBnDkEl /
thermochemical changes in several power to do or refrain from doing Roman name
reactions revealed a striking something: specifically : an occult bragging, boastful.
variation in enthalpy. art in which the operator is held to Cleo’s father asked her not to be
be capable of evoking or utilizing thrasonical about her birthday
thermocline the aid of divine and beneficent presents in front of her brother.
spirits.
thermoduric Theurgy is sometimes called “high thread
magic,” and thaumaturgy, the use
of magic for nonreligious purposes,
is called “low magic.”
thiazide
thigh
Page 138 of 153

thrilled tidewaiter tintinnabulum
v
/ Sthrild / tidology tiponi
E
caused to have a shivering or tidy tipsy
tingling sensation : affected
emotionally. tierce tiptoed
Jeff was so thrilled by the new Star n v
Wars movie that he got back in line / Sti(E)rs / / StipTtPd /
to see it again. L>F>E E+E
a sequence of three playing cards of walked or proceeded quietly or
thrips the same suit. cautiously walking on or as if
n pl Roland’s tierce led with the ace of walking on the tips or ends of the
/ Sthrips / hearts and beat Paul’s king, queen, toes.
Gk > L and jack of clubs handily. The toddler tiptoed slowly toward
any of some 5,000 species of tiny his parents with his arms
winged insects of the order tierer outstretched.
Thysanoptera.
To survive the cold winters, thrips tiger tiresomely
hibernate in hollow plant stems on
the ground. tigereye tiring
v
thrive tignon / StI(E)riN /
E
throttlebottom tiki fatiguing, wearying.
n Bridget found her job tiring and
throwaway / StGkG / boring.
Maori&Marquesan
thrummed a Polynesian wood or stone image tirralirra
set up as a temporary abode or
thrust embodiment of a god or other tithe
v supernatural power but not v
/ SthrEst / worshipped as an idol. / StIL /
ON > E The tiki at the entrance to the E
push or drive with physical force. Polynesian restaurant is genuine. pay or give a tenth part of
To open the can, Elmer had to especially for the support of the
thrust a screwdriver through the tilery church.
lid. The pastor used this Sunday’s
timbe sermon time to encourage members
thuggee of the congregation to tithe.
timber
thulium title
timberline
thunder titoism
timbery
thundering titration
timely n
thurifer adj / tIStrCshEn /
/ StImlG / F>E
Thursday E a determination of the reactive
n done or occurring at a suitable capacity usually of a solution;
/ SthErz(T)dC / time. especially : the analytical process
ON > E A timely downpour quenched the of successively adding measured
the day following Wednesday. fire. amounts of a reagent to a known
Pizza is served every Thursday in volume of a sample in solution
the school cafeteria. tin until a desired end point is reached.
Mark prepared to do a titration by
tickle tinderbox transferring 40 milliliters of sodium
hydroxide into a flask.
Page 139 of 153

tittuppy torpidity towser
titularly torridity toxicant
tizzy torture trabant
tjaele totally tracer
toadyism touchdown traceried

n
tocusso / StEchTdaUn / tractrix
L>F>E+E
toddler the act of scoring six points in a trade
football game by being lawfully in
tombolo possession of the ball on, above, or trafficker
behind an opponent’s goal line
tomfoolery when the ball is declared dead. tragicomedy
Barnaby intercepted the ball and
tonality ran 89 yards to score the most tragus
memorable touchdown in his
tonetics school’s history. trajection
tonne touchline tranchet

n
tonometer / StEchTlIn / trans
n L > F > E + E&(L > F) adj
/ tPSnBmEZE(r) / either of the lines between and at / Stran(t)s /
Gk right angles to the goal lines that L
an instrument for measuring the bound the sides of the field of play [has homonym: trance] having or
exact pitch or vibration rate of in rugby and soccer. characterized by various atoms or
tones. The referee ruled that Colin’s foot groups on opposite sides of the
In 1833, Scheibler put tonometry had come down on the wrong side molecule.
on a scientific basis with his of the touchline. Heat or irradiation with light can
tonometer. often change a compound from a
toupee cis to a trans isomer, although it
tonsillitic does not change the type or number
tournament of atoms in the compound.
tope n
/ StUrnEmEnt / transcription
topgallant F>E
a trial of skill in which many transenna
topiarist contestants compete for
championship in a series of transformation
topical elimination contests. n
Laszlo won first place in the state / TtranzfE(r)SmCshEn /
topodeme chess tournament. L>E
a physiological change of one thing
topology towering into another (as larva into adult
through metamorphosis).
toponomastic town During the pupal stage the larva of
n a butterfly undergoes a
toponymic / StaUn / transformation in which the wings
E appear and adult structures are
topos a compactly settled area usually developed.
larger than a village but smaller
toreutic than a city in population.
The town of Oliver Springs was
tormentor worst hit by the storm.
Page 140 of 153

transgression trencher tricouni
n n
/ tran(t)sSgreshEn / / StrenchE(r) / tricycle
L F>E
the infringement or violation of a a platter or tray for serving food. triennial
law, command, or duty. Ten minutes after entering the inn,
The union leader claimed that the the wayfarer was working his way triforium
company was guilty of a through a trencher piled with food.
transgression of the labor contract. triglyceride
trepan
transgressor trilemma
trepanation
transilience trillionth
trephine
translate trilocular
trestletree
translucence trilogy
triadism n
transmitted / StrilEjG /
trial Gk
transport a series of three dramas or
triangular sometimes three literary or musical
transported compositions that although each is
adj triassic in one sense complete have a close
/ tranzSpPrZDd / mutual relation and form one theme
L triceps or develop aspects of one basic
impassioned or enraptured by concept.
strong and usually pleasurable trichology The third novel in the trilogy was a
emotion. n sequel to the first, but the second
As Tom listened to the chanting / trDSkBlEjG / was a prequel to it.
monks, he felt transported and Gk
otherworldly. the scientific study of hair. trimester
Several experts in trichology
trapdoor manned booths at the cosmetology trinitrotoluene
fair.
trapeze trinked
trichotomous
trapezoid trinket
trickled
trawl v trinklied
/ StrikEld /
treasonable E trio
ran or fell in drops. n
trecentist Water trickled out from the hole in / StrG(T)P /
the jug. L > It > F
treeing a group or set of three.
v triclinic Ben belongs to a well-known trio of
/ StrGiN / adj musicians that plays for wedding
E / trISklinik / receptions.
driving to or up a tree. Gk
Strange to say, Jacques and Philip having or characterized by three triplicate
had a hard time treeing that unequal axes intersecting at oblique
squirrel. angles—used especially of a triploid
crystal.
tremor Dusty reminded Sam that triclinic tripodal
crystals have three unequal
dimensions and three unequal
angles, none of which is 90
degrees.
Page 141 of 153

tristful troublemaker trunk
adj n
/ StristfEl / / StrEbElTmCkE(r) / trying
L>E+E L>F>E+E adj
sad, melancholy. a person who foments strife and / StrIiN /
The tristful soldier longed for the disagreement often for ulterior F > AF > E
day he could return home. motives. causing severe hardship,
The teenaged troublemaker, having annoyance, or irritation.
triton proved to be too difficult for his The long and trying journey
n parents to handle, was sent to a exhausted Deeka.
/ StrItFn / reformatory as a last resort.
Gk name tryst
one of a class of minor sea troublesome
divinities or partly human monsters adj tubercular
usually represented as having the / StrEbElsEm /
upper body like that of a human L>F>E+E tubular
and the lower body like that of a disturbing, vexatious.
fish : merman. Gerald had a troublesome dream tubulifloral
Greek mythology has it that when last night.
the sea roars, a triton is blowing a tubuliflorous
conch shell trumpet. troublously
tucket
Troadic troughing
adj Tuesday
/ trPSadik / trout n
Gk geog name / St(y)Vz(T)dC /
of or relating to ancient Troy. truffled E
Many remains of the Troadic adj the day following Monday.
culture have been excavated near / StrEfEld / The English meaning of Mardi
the city of Hisarlik in Turkey. L > OProv > F Gras is “Fat Tuesday.”
cooked, stuffed, or garnished with
trochophore edible fungi of the genus Tuber. tumblebug
Emilia prepared a delicious truffled
trogon risotto with autumn vegetables. tumor
trophogenic truly tumultuary

adv
tropical / StrVlG / tun
adj E
/ StrBpDkEl / indeed. tunnel
L Mary is truly the best leader the
of, relating to, occurring in, or used student government association has turbinado
in the region lying between either had in many years.
of two parallels of Earth’s latitude turbojet
that are approximately 23½ degrees trump
north of the equator and v turboprop
approximately 23½ degrees south / StrEmp /
of the equator. L>F>E turfman
Diana’s cruise took her to several take a set of cards with a card of a
tropical islands. suit designated by chance or by an turkey
auction or declaration that if legally
troth played will win over a card that is turner
not of this suit. n
trouble Sighing, Joe laid down his final / StErnEr /
card and waited for Janice to E
trump the trick with a heart. [has homonyms: ternar, terner] one
that turns or is used for turning.
truncheons Matt grabbed a pancake turner and
lit out after the cat.
Page 142 of 153

turnery twice ufology
adv
turnout / StwIs / ugli
n E
/ StErnTaUt / for a first and second time : on two ugliness
E+E occasions.
[Note: The definition provided is After Reginald wrecked the car uhlan
not the one most commonly twice, his parents took his driving
associated with this word.] a privileges away for three months. uletic
position of the feet in ballet with
the heels back to back. twin ulmaceous
Kristin did many stretching adj
exercises to improve her turnout. / Stwin / ulpan
E
turnsole constituting two similar, closely ultimo
associated, or otherwise paired
turntable persons, topics, or objects. ultraism
n Ms. Venable purchased new
/ StErnTtCbEl / mattresses for the twin beds in the ultramontane
E+L>F>E guest room.
a machine that reproduces speech umbelliferous
or music from records. twirl
The CD player has replaced the v umbrous
turntable in many homes. / StwErl /
Scand? umland
turriculate revolve rapidly.
Janet hoped Gregory wouldn’t try umpirage
turtle to twirl her too fast around the n
n dance floor. / SEmTpIrij /
/ StErZFl / L>F>E
imit > L > E two an act or instance of deciding in the
tortoise. adj capacity of one having authority to
Jaime fed little bits of hamburger to / StV / arbitrate and make a final decision.
his pet turtle. E Daniel Webster declined the
[has homonyms: to, too] being one umpirage of any state that tried to
turtledove more than one in number. settle the validity of laws of
Betsy was more well behaved at Congress.
tussock two years than she was at three.
umpty
tutu tyg
n unaccountable
/ StVTtV / tying adj
F / TEnESkaUntEbEl /
a very short projecting skirt worn tylosaurus Ecf + F > E
by a ballet dancer. not answerable or responsible : free
In the football team’s parody of typewriter from control.
Swan Lake, the quarterback wore a The students were under the
large white tutu. typhonic mistaken impression that they
would be unaccountable for their
twain typist actions at the football game.
n
/ StwCn / typography unanimously
E
couple, pair. typp
The twain of volunteers who made
the fund raiser a success are Mr. tzigane
Burgess and Ms. Kent.
ubiquity
tweak
Page 143 of 153

unannotated underestimate unfulfilled
v adj
/ EnSanETtCZDd / underlineation / TEnfUlSfild /
Ecf + L Ecf + E
not furnished with critical or underneath not satisfied.
explanatory notes. prep The president promised to respond
The library’s only copy of the poem / TEndE(r)SnGth / to the unfulfilled needs of the
was unannotated, so Ivan searched E people.
the Internet for expert literary close under especially so as to be
criticism. covered or hidden by. ungenteel
Val found beetles, worms, and a
unappeasable cricket underneath the flagstone. unguerdoned
adj
/ SEnEpGzEbEl / underscore unhappy
Ecf + L > F > E + Ecf adj
not capable of being brought to a understand / EnShapG /
state of ease or content. E
The gladiators fought hour after undeterred dejected in spirit : melancholy, sad.
hour before seemingly Being such an outgoing person,
unappeasable spectators. undulating Joan is unhappy when she has no
one to talk to.
unbleached unearth
adj unicity
/ TEnSblGcht / unembroidered
E unicycle
not having the color or stains unencumbered
removed from. unify
Mr. Byng was dressed from head to unenforceable v
toe in unbleached linen. adj / SyVnETfI /
/ TEnDnSfP(E)rsEbEl / L
uncensored Ecf + F + Ecf make into a coherent group or
adj not capable of causing to take whole.
/ TEnSsen(t)sE(r)d / effect. The coach worked hard to unify the
Ecf + L Shasta believes that the state players on the team.
not subjected to the system or legislature’s recent education bill
practice of altering, deleting, or is unenforceable. unimpeachable
banning completely after adj
examination. unenviable / TEnDmSpGchEbEl /
Many parents want to protect their Ecf + E + L > F > E + Ecf
children from uncensored unequivocal exempt from liability to accusation
information on the Internet. : blameless.
unerringly An unimpeachable character is an
uncrystallized adv asset almost every candidate strives
/ TEnSe(E)riNlG / to project.
unctuously Ecf + L > F > E + Ecff
in a faultless manner : with unimpeded
uncurl precision. adj
Almost everyone leaving the theater / TEnDmSpGdDd /
undercook felt that the play had been Ecf + L
v unerringly performed. free from anything that hampers.
/ SEndE(r)TkUk / Many services are provided onsite
E+E uneventful at the plant to ensure that worker
heat food insufficiently or less than productivity is unimpeded.
thoroughly. unfasten
Care must be taken not to unipara
undercook poultry. unfilial
unireme
unfinished
Page 144 of 153

unity unnatural untalented
n adj
/ SyVnEZH / / TEnSnach(E)rEl / unupholstered
L E+L adj
the quality or state of being or inconsistent with what is expected / TEnEpShPlztE(r)d /
consisting of one : oneness, or in accordance with or E+E
singleness. determined by nature : strange. not furnished with or as if with
Seth quoted Benjamin Franklin’s Throughout the year, Ryan has materials (as fabric, padding, and
call for unity: “We must all hang dyed his hair all sorts of unnatural springs) used to make a soft
together, or assuredly we shall colors. covering especially for a seat.
hang separately.” The congregation discussed
univalent unpaid whether or not the unupholstered
adj church pews should be provided
/ TyVnESvClEnt / unpierceable with cushions.
L
capable usually of combining with unputrefied unurbane
only one atom of another element. adj
Mr. Greenwood said that the unravel / TEnTErSbCn /
hydrogen atom is taken to be E+L
univalent. unreadable not notably polite or finished in
adj manner : rustic, vulgar.
unkemptly / TEnSrGdEbEl / Donald’s unurbane table manners
Ecf + E + Ecf disgusted those sitting near him.
unknown lacking attraction or interest as
material for reading : alien or dull unutterable
unlaureled in vein or spirit. adj
adj Two years ago Joy found the novel / TEnSEZErEbEl /
/ TEnSlOrEld / unreadable, but now she cannot put E + E + Ecf
Ecf + L > F > E + Ecf it down. not capable of being spoken.
having no acclaim or reward. After repeating the phrase toy boat
Philo T. Farnsworth, a pioneering unredeemed five times in quick succession, Joel
researcher in television, went found the phrase unutterable.
mainly unlaureled after selling the unregal
rights to his work. unvariegated
unrelenting
unlawful adj unvitiated
adj / TEnrDSlentiN /
/ TEnSlOfEl / E+L>E unvoyageable
E not softening, yielding, or swerving
contrary to or prohibited by a in resolution or determination. unwontedly
binding custom or practice of a The chairman was a stern and
community. unrelenting taskmaster. upas
Everyone hoped for the capture of
those responsible for the hideous unruly upbraidingly
unlawful deed.
unsanguine uphill
unleash adv
unscathed / SEpThil /
unloveliness E
unsealed against difficulties.
unnameable Shawna kept working her way
unseizable uphill through school.
unselfish
unshipped
unsportsmanlike
Page 145 of 153

uplifted usurped valleys
adj v
/ TEpSlifZDd / / yVSsErpt / valvulotomy
E + ON > E L
raised in spirits. seized and held in possession by vamoose
After a walk along the beach, Pat force or without right.
returned uplifted and refreshed. The senator claimed that the vamplate
Supreme Court had usurped the
uprighteous powers of the legislatures. vanaspati
uproar utilize vanillin

n
/ SEpTrP(E)r / vacantly vaporize
D>E adv v
a loud usually disorderly noise of / SvCkEntlG / / SvCpETrIz /
some duration. L L + Ecf
An uproar swept the auditorium in a manner characterized by become converted to the gaseous
when Wayne sank a three-pointer absence of thought and reflection : state.
at the buzzer. idly, inanely. The cooling effect of rubbing
Kevin was staring vacantly out the alcohol on skin is caused by the
upsilon classroom window when the extraction of heat as the molecules
teacher asked him if he knew the acquire kinetic energy and
upstage answer to the question. vaporize.
upstairs vacherin vaporous

n
uranology / Tvash(E)Sran / vaquero
L>F
urbanism a dessert consisting of a meringue varicella
filled usually with cream, ice
urbanize cream, or fruit. varices
Muffy bit into a crisp vacherin
urceole filled with sweet chestnut puree. variegate
urceus vacillancy variolate
urgent vagal varrio

adj
/ SErjEnt / vagility vasculitis
L
calling for or demanding immediate vague vase
attention.
“Let’s go back,” Calvin said in an vainly vasopressor
urgent voice. adv
/ SvCnlG / Vatican
urgrund L>E adj
in a manner that fails to achieve a / SvaZDkEn /
urostyle purpose : unsuccessfully. L
Firefighters vainly tried to enter of or relating to the official
urushiye the burning house. residence of the pope in Vatican
City, Rome, especially as
usurer valedictorian symbolizing the papacy or its
policies.
usurpation validate The Vatican collection of religious
art is the largest in the world.
vallate
vaticinate
vallecula
vaulted
Page 146 of 153

vaunt vermiculated viaticum
adj n
vectored / vE(r)SmikyETlCZDd / / vISaZDkEm /
L L
Veda wormlike in shape. an allowance (as of transportation
n The old books that we found in the or supplies and money) for
/ SvCdE / cellar were filled with vermiculated traveling expenses.
Skt tunnels. Shirley has spent all but $50 of the
any of a class of the most ancient $500 viaticum her father gave her
sacred writings of the Hindus. verneuk for her spring break trip.
The Veda, which is divided into
four parts, was first translated into vernier vicarial
European languages in the late
18th and early 19th centuries. verriculate vicennial
adj
veer versatility / vISsenGEl /
L
veery versicle occurring once every 20 years.
n The university president recognized
vegan / SvErsDkEl / the vicennial medalists, who for
L two decades had dedicated
vegetablize a brief poem or set of metrical themselves to teaching,
lines. scholarship, and service.
veiled When he couldn’t sleep, Lord
Byron often sat up and wrote a viceroy
veiltail versicle or two.
vichyite
veinless versicolor
adj victory
velveret / SvErsDTkElE(r) /
L+L victuals
vendible having various hues : variegated.
The woman in the long, versicolor video
venial silk skirt turned out to be the
hostess. videography
veniremen n
versification / TvidGSBgrEfG /
venomous L + Gk
verso the practice or art of recording
ventiduct n images with a video camera.
/ SvEr(T)sP / The camcorders used in
ventriloquial L videography allow for more
a left-hand page (as of a book) realism in police drama programs.
ventriloquize usually carrying an even page
number. viewpoint
ventriloquy The first verso of a book often
displays its International Standard vihara
verbicide Book Number.
vilification
verbigerated verticillate
villa
verbosely verticity
vinaigrettes
verdureless vesicular
vinegarroon
veridically viands
vinegary
verism
vinic
Page 147 of 153

viol viscidity voiceprint
n
viola viscosity / SvOisTprint /
L>F>E+L>F>E
violence viselike an individually distinctive pattern
of certain voice characteristics that
violoncellist vision is spectrographically produced.
n Detectives testified that the
viomycin / SvizhEn / kidnapper’s voiceprint matches
L that of the defendant.
viraginous something seen otherwise than by
the ordinary sight. voidee
vireo Ravi keeps having a vision of a
giant bowling ball rolling toward volcanic
virescence him.
vole
virescent visitor n
/ vPl /
virginal visually Scand
adv any of various rodents that are
virtues / SvizhElG / closely related to the lemmings and
n pl L muskrats but in general resemble
/ SvEr(T)chVz / with regard to the act or power of murid mice or rats and inhabit both
L seeing. moist meadows and dry uplands.
characteristics, qualities, or traits A Seeing Eye dog is a great help to The vole is a rodent often
known or felt to be excellent. a visually impaired person. responsible for crop damage.
Patience was not one of Keith’s
virtues. vitiated volitation
virtuous vitiates volitional
virulence vitriol volitorial

n
/ Svir(y)ElEn(t)s / vituline voltammetry
L
the quality or property of being vituperatory voltigeur
able to overcome the defense
mechanism of the host. vivid voltmeter
Virulence is the capacity of an n
infectious agent to damage living vivificate / SvPltTmGZE(r) /
cells. It name + Gk
vocalise an instrument for measuring in
virus n volts the differences of potential
n / TvPkESlGz / between different points of an
/ SvIrEs / L electrical circuit.
L a vocalized melody or passage The voltmeter showed no current
the causative agent of an infectious without words. moving through the wire.
disease. Jazz singing with nonsense
The Salk vaccine creates immunity syllables is an improvised form of volume
to the virus responsible for polio. vocalise.
viscera vocalist
n pl
/ SvisErE / vocoder
L
internal organs of the body. voicecast
While on safari, the tourists passed
a group of vultures feeding on the
viscera of a dead zebra.
Page 148 of 153

volumetric wambenger warren
adj n n
/ TvBlyESmetrik / / SwamTbeNgE(r) / / SwOrDn /
L + Gk unknown Gmc? > F > E
of or relating to the measurement of a widely distributed Australian an area especially of uncultivated
space occupied or enclosed by pouched mouse. ground for the breeding of rabbits;
cubic units. The tail of the wambenger is also : a place abounding in rabbits.
The expensive volumetric flask distinctive for its red color. Some of the rabbits in the
shattered when it slipped from overpopulated warren went
Horace’s hands. wampum elsewhere to find a place to live.
n
volumette / SwBmpEm / washout
Narraganset
voluptuate beads made of shells polished and wassailer
strung together in strands, belts, or
voluptuousness sashes and used by the North wassails
American Indians as money,
vomitory ceremonial pledges, and ornaments. wastebasket
n Some of the oldest existing
/ SvBmETtPrG / wampum represents agreements wasteful
L between Native American tribes adj
an entrance piercing the banks of and Catholic missionaries and is / SwCstfEl /
seats of a theater or amphitheater. now in the Vatican collection. E + Ecf
After the game ended, every expending something valuable in a
vomitory was packed with fans wampumpeag useless or extravagant manner.
rushing to their cars. The newly elected mayor suspected
wangle wasteful spending and initiated a
vouvray thorough investigation of
warbonnet expenditures.
vulgarity n
/ SwO(E)rTbBnDt / waster
vying Gmc > F > E + L > F > E
an American Indian ceremonial water
waders headdress with a feathered n
n pl extension down the back. / SwOZE(r) /
/ SwCdE(r)z / The Sioux chief proudly posed for E
E the cameras in his eagle-feathered the liquid that descends from the
[has near homonym: waiters] high warbonnet. clouds as rain.
waterproof boots or a one-piece Water pelted the windshield so
waterproof garment usually wardrobe hard and fast that Etsu pulled off to
consisting of pants with attached the side of the road and waited for
boots that are used for wading (as wares it to stop.
when fishing).
As Bill and Tom canoed down the warhead waterborne
river, they passed a fly-fisherman
in waders who didn’t seem too warmouth watermark
happy to see them.
warp watermelon
waffles v
/ SwO(E)rp / watery
waftage E
turn or twist out of shape.
wager The constant wind began to warp
the entire row of saplings.
wake
wallydraigle
Page 149 of 153

wattle weber wheat
n n
/ SwBZFl / / SwebE(r) / wheatear
E G name
[has homonym: waddle] a the practical meter-kilogram- wheaten
fabrication of rods or poles second unit of magnetic flux equal n
interwoven with slender branches, to that flux which in linking a / ShwGtFn /
withes, or reeds. circuit of one turn produces in it an E
Wattle is often used for garden electromotive force of 1 volt : 100 the color of wheat; specifically : a
fences in the English countryside. million maxwells. pale yellow or fawn characteristic
Sarah’s homework problem of certain breeds of dogs.
waveson required her to find the voltage to Wheaten, the color of Missy’s soft-
the nearest weber. coated terrier, sharply contrasts
waxbill with that of her boyfriend’s black
wedeln Scottish terrier.
wayfarer
weedery wheatless
wayward
adj weeknight wheeled
/ SwCwE(r)d /
E weem wheelhorse
characterized by extreme
willfulness and by determination to weld whet
follow one’s own capricious, v
wanton, or depraved inclinations to / Sweld / whiff
the point of being ungovernable. E n
The wayward child insisted on unite or consolidate by heating to a / Shwif /
touching everybody’s food. plastic or fluid state the surfaces of imit
the parts to be joined and then an inhalation of odor, smoke, gas,
wayzgoose allowing them to flow together. or vapor.
As a sculptor, Erica has a The faintest whiff of cigarette
weald workshop full of equipment to help smoke made Fagan sneeze.
her weld large metal sheets
wean together. whillikers
wearying welder whiplash

adj
/ SwirGiN / wenzel whippoorwills
E
that causes to lose freshness or Wesak whirlicote
virtue or usefulness. n
Katerina found the congenial cafes / SwGTsBk / whirlybird
more interesting than the wearying Skt > Sinhalese
tense casinos. the Buddhist New Year festival whitewash
celebrating the birthday of the
weaselly Buddha at the May full moon. whither
In Sri Lanka, Buddhists dress in
weatherly white and carry baskets of flowers whitsunday
to the monastery to celebrate
weave Wesak. whizgig
v
/ SwGv / wesselton whopper
E
bring together and interrelate so as whalebone wight
to form a coherent whole.
No one else on the radio can weave whangdoodle wiikite
a wonderful story from whimsical
tidbits the way Garrison Keillor whatnot wildebeest
can.
Page 150 of 153

wily womanly worldwide
adv adj
windbreaks / SwUmEnlG / / SwErldTwId /
n pl E E
/ SwindTbrCks / possessed of the character or extended or extending throughout
E+E behavior befitting a grown woman. the entire world.
rowed or clumped trees or shrubs Mona’s womanly, capable, and There have been no successful
that give protection against the mature attitude belies her true age. attempts to build a worldwide
wind. empire in history, unless we count
The farm presented an orderly women multinational corporations.
appearance with the fencing and n pl
hedging, the windbreaks and sheds, / SwimDn / worry
and the symmetrical pasture ponds. E v
female human beings. / SwErG /
windjammer Sojourner Truth preached against E
the evils of slavery and for the afflict with mental distress or
windmill rights of women. agitation : make anxious.
n Despite her high grades, final
/ SwindTmil / wonder exams always worry Lynette
E v because she is a perfectionist.
a mechanism operated by wind / SwEndE(r) /
motion acting on oblique vanes or E wort
sails radiating from a horizontal be in a state of rapt or questioning
shaft. attention. woven
The windmill drew water up from Though no insight ever hit him,
the well for the cattle to drink. Jules was disposed nonetheless to wretch
wonder at life’s mysteries.
windup wretchedness
wood n
wink / SrechDdnDs /
woodchuck E
winkle n the quality or state of being deeply
/ SwUdTchEk / afflicted, dejected, or distressed
winterfeed Ojibwa or Cree > E from want, disease, or mental
a thickset marmot of the anguish.
winterim northeastern United States and The homeless man’s wretchedness
Canada with a chiefly grizzled brought Suzanne to tears.
winterize reddish brown color.
The world’s most famous wringstaff
wisecrack woodchuck is probably
Punxsutawney Phil. wrinkle
witchery n
woodcock / SriNkEl /
wittol E
woodier an innovation in method, technique,
woe or equipment.
n woodkern The newest wrinkle in Internet
/ SwP / technology seems to be wireless
E woodpecker communication.
[has homonyms and near
homonym: wo, woa, and whoa] woolder wrist
distress.
Woe to the student who must stay in woozy writhingly
detention hall with Mrs.
McGillicutty. workaholism
wolfishly
Page 151 of 153

writing xysti yelper
adj n pl
/ SrItiN / / SzistI / yeomanette
E Gk > L
of, relating to, or used in or for the long open porticoes used especially yesterday
act or art of forming letters on a by ancient Greeks or Romans for
suitable medium to communicate athletic exercises in wintry or yeti
the ideas which characters and stormy weather. n
words express. There were xysti at each end of the / SyetG /
Mr. Burrett grabbed a writing pad emperor’s villa, and athletes often Tibetan
off his desk before the meeting. trained there during the rainy abominable snowman.
season. The mountaineer claimed to have
wrong found his way out of a blizzard by
n yagi following the huge footprints of a
/ SrON / yeti.
E yak
the state of being mistaken or yew
incorrect. yam n
After listening to two skilled / SyV /
lawyers argue a case, it is often yarak E
difficult to tell which side is in the [has homonyms: ewe, you] any of
wrong. yardmaster numerous ornamental evergreen
shrubs and trees having stiff leaves
wrongful yards spirally arranged, a fruit consisting
n pl of a fleshy covering enclosing a
wurrung / SyBrdz / hard seed, and poisonous juice.
E Wood of the English yew is valued
wurst units of length in the United States, for cabinetwork and archery bows.
each equal to 0.9144 meter.
xebec The band marched eight-to-five: Yinglish
eight equal steps for every 5 yards. n
xenobiotic / SyiN(g)lish /
yautia G+E
xenoglossy English marked by numerous
yaw borrowings from Yiddish.
xenolith Max’s grandfather speaks a
yawn colorful Yinglish with the younger
xenophile v members of his family.
/ SyOn /
xerarch E yizkor
gape cavernously : present a wide
xerography gulf or breach. yokelish
In Rocky Mountain National Park
xeroplastic there is a dizzying road with valleys yucca
that yawn on either side.
xiphophyllous yugur
yawweed
xylitol zazen
Yeatsian n
adj / SzBTzen /
/ SyCtsGEn / Jpn
Irish name Zen meditation.
of or relating to W.B. Yeats or his Sitting in the lotus position, Naomi
poetic style or influence. found she slipped easily into a state
Many young poets publish a series of zazen.
of Yeatsian poems expressing the
romance of history and nature. zenana
yegg
Page 152 of 153

Zendo zooty
n
/ SzendP / Zoroastrian
Jpn adj
a place used for Zen meditation. / TzPrESwastrGEn /
Thom built a spacious Zendo Av > Gk > L
beside his house and went there of or relating to a religion founded
every afternoon. in Persia by the prophet Zoroaster
teaching the worship of Ahura
zestful Mazda as the source of all good.
adj The Zoroastrian scriptures preach
/ SzestfEl / the concepts of the immortal soul,
F + Ecf heaven, and hell.
full of vitality marked by vigor and
enthusiasm. zucchettos
Brian’s teacher described him as
lighthearted but not insensitive, zwetschenwasser
zestful but not aggressive.
zygote
zeta
zymogenic
zinciferous
zymotic
zinger
Zionist
n
/ SzIETnDst /
Hebrew > L > E
an adherent to or supporter of a
theory, plan, or movement for
setting up a Jewish national or
religious community in Palestine.
The old Zionist vowed he would not
take his last breath until the Jewish
state was established.
zipper
zither
zoetic
zonule
zoolatry
zoonosis
zoophorus
zoophyte
zooplankter
zooplankton
zootaxy
Page 153 of 153

2004 SB Scrpps PDF

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

2004 SB Scrpps PDF

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently

aardwolf abdomen abiogenist

abbreviation abhorrence abrasion

alnico alphabet alveolate

arenaceous argot armaments

arrogant arthroscopy ascertained

author auxiliary avocet

bole boniface bore

clemency clinquant cloture

contumacious convene convoy

contumacy convenience coordinate

contusion conversant Copernican

corral corybantic coterminous

croup cruller cryptic

declivate decreolization deficiency

dockhand dolorifuge domineering

Page 100 of 349

Page 101 of 349

Page 102 of 349

Page 103 of 349

Page 104 of 349

Page 105 of 349

Page 106 of 349

Page 107 of 349

Page 108 of 349

Page 109 of 349

Page 110 of 349

evincible exanimate excursion

eviscerate exaration exedent

Page 111 of 349

Page 112 of 349

Page 113 of 349

Page 114 of 349

Page 115 of 349

Page 116 of 349

Page 117 of 349

Page 118 of 349

Page 119 of 349

Page 120 of 349

Page 121 of 349

Page 122 of 349

Page 123 of 349

Page 124 of 349

Page 125 of 349

Page 126 of 349

Page 127 of 349

Page 128 of 349

Page 129 of 349

Page 130 of 349

Page 131 of 349

gerrymander gesundheit gibleh

Page 132 of 349

Page 133 of 349

Page 134 of 349

Page 135 of 349

Page 136 of 349

grandeur grapnel grazioso

Page 137 of 349

Page 138 of 349

Page 139 of 349

Page 140 of 349

Page 141 of 349

Page 142 of 349