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Oxford English Dictionary (PDFDrive)
Oxford English Dictionary (PDFDrive)
Oxford English Dictionary (PDFDrive)
Aback adv. take aback surprise, disconcert. [old english: related to *a2]
Abacus n. (pl. -cuses) 1 frame with wires along which beads are slid for
calculating. 2 archit. Flat slab on top of a capital. [latin from greek from hebrew]
Abaft naut. —adv. In the stern half of a ship. —prep. Nearer the stern than.
[from *a2, -baft: see *aft]
Abandon —v. 1 give up. 2 forsake, desert. 3 (often foll. By to; often refl.) Yield
to a passion, another’s control, etc. —n. Freedom from inhibitions. abandonment
n. [french: related to ad-, ban]
Abandoned adj. 1 deserted, forsaken. 2 unrestrained, profligate.
Abate v. (-ting) make or become less strong etc.; diminish. abatement n. [french
abatre from latin batt(u)o beat]
Abbé n. (in france) abbot or priest. [french from latin: related to *abbot]
Abdomen n. 1 the belly, including the stomach, bowels, etc. 2 the hinder part of
an insect etc. abdominal adj. [latin]
Aberrant adj. Deviating from what is normal or accepted. [latin: related to *err]
Abet v. (-tt-) (usu. In aid and abet) encourage or assist (an offender or offence).
[french: related to ad-, bait]
Abeyance n. (usu. Prec. By in, into) temporary disuse. [french: related to *ad-,
beer gape]
Abide v. (-ding; past abided or rarely abode) 1 (usu. In neg.) Tolerate, endure
(can’t abide him). 2 (foll. By by) a act in accordance with (abide by the rules). B
keep (a promise). 3 archaic remain, continue. [old english a-intensive prefix,
*bide]
Abjure v. (-ring) renounce on oath (an opinion, cause, etc.). abjuration n. [latin
juro swear]
Ablative gram. —n. Case (in latin) of nouns and pronouns indicating an agent,
instrument, or location. —adj. Of or in the ablative. [latin ablatus taken away]
Ablaze predic. Adj. & adv. 1 on fire. 2 glittering, glowing. 3 greatly excited.
Able adj. (abler, ablest) 1 (often foll. By to + infin.; used esp. In is able, will be
able, etc., replacing tenses of can) having the capacity or power (not able to
come). 2 talented, clever. ably adv. [latin habilis]
Ablution n. (usu. In pl.) 1 ceremonial washing of the hands, sacred vessels, etc. 2
colloq. A ordinary bodily washing. B place for this. [latin ablutio from luo lut-
wash]
Abnormal adj. Deviating from the norm; exceptional. abnormality n. (pl. -ies).
Abnormally adv. [french: related to *anomalous]
Abo (also abo) austral. Slang usu. Offens. —n. (pl. -s) aboriginal. —adj.
Aboriginal. [abbreviation]
Aboard adv. & prep. On or into (a ship, aircraft, etc.). [from *a2]
Aboriginal —adj. 1 indigenous, inhabiting a land from the earliest times, esp.
Before the arrival of colonists. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) of australian aborigines. —n.
1 aboriginal inhabitant. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) aboriginal inhabitant of australia.
[latin: related to *origin]
Usage when referring to the people, aboriginal is preferred for the singular form
and aborigines for the plural, although aboriginals is also acceptable.
Aboriginal —adj. 1 indigenous, inhabiting a land from the earliest times, esp.
Before the arrival of colonists. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) of australian aborigines. —n.
1 aboriginal inhabitant. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) aboriginal inhabitant of australia.
[latin: related to *origin]
Usage when referring to the people, aboriginal is preferred for the singular form
and aborigines for the plural, although aboriginals is also acceptable.
Abound v. 1 be plentiful. 2 (foll. By in, with) be rich; teem. [latin unda wave]
Above —prep. 1 over; on the top of; higher than; over the surface of (head above
water; above the din). 2 more than (above twenty people). 3 higher in rank,
importance, etc., than. 4 a too great or good for (not above cheating). B beyond
the reach of (above my understanding; above suspicion). —adv. 1 at or to a
higher point; overhead (the floor above; the sky above). 2 earlier on a page or in
a book (as noted above). —adj. Preceding (the above argument). —n. (prec. By
the) preceding text (the above shows). above all most of all, more than anything
else. Above oneself conceited, arrogant. [old english: related to *a2]
Abrade v. (-ding) scrape or wear away (skin, rock, etc.) By rubbing. [latin rado
scrape]
Abrasion n. 1 scraping or wearing away (of skin, rock, etc.). 2 resulting damaged
area.
Abreast adv. 1 side by side and facing the same way. 2 (foll. By of) up to date.
Abrogate v. (-ting) repeal, abolish (a law etc.). abrogation n. [latin rogo propose
a law]
Abrupt adj. 1 sudden, hasty (abrupt end). 2 (of manner etc.) Curt. 3 steep,
precipitous. abruptly adv. Abruptness n. [latin: related to *rupture]
Abscess n. (pl. Abscesses) swelling containing pus. [latin: related to ab-, cede]
Abseil —v. Descend by using a doubled rope coiled round the body and fixed at
a higher point. —n. Descent made by abseiling. [german ab down, seil rope]
Absence n. 1 being away. 2 time of this. 3 (foll. By of) lack of. absence of mind
inattentiveness. [latin absentia]
Absent —adj. 1 not present. 2 not existing; lacking. 3 inattentive. —v.refl. Go,
or stay, away. absently adv. (in sense 3 of adj.).
Absolve v. (-ving) (often foll. By from, of) set or pronounce free from blame or
obligation etc. [latin: related to *solve]
Abundant adj. 1 plentiful. 2 (foll. By in) rich (abundant in fruit). abundantly adv.
Abuse —v. (-sing) 1 use improperly, misuse. 2 insult verbally. 3 maltreat. —n. 1
misuse. 2 insulting language. 3 unjust or corrupt practice. 4 maltreatment (child
abuse). abuser n. [latin: related to *use]
Abut v. (-tt-) 1 (foll. By on) (of land) border on. 2 (foll. By on, against) (of a
building) touch or lean upon (another). [anglo-latin butta strip of land: related to
*butt1]
Ac symb. Actinium.
-ac suffix forming adjectives often (or only) used as nouns (cardiac; maniac).
[latin -acus, greek -akos]
Acacia n. Tree with yellow or white flowers, esp. One yielding gum arabic.
[latin from greek]
Academic —adj. 1 scholarly, of learning. 2 of no practical relevance; theoretical.
—n. Teacher or scholar in a university etc. academically adv.
A cappella adj. & adv. (of choral music) unaccompanied. [italian, = in church
style]
Accede v. (-ding) (foll. By to) 1 take office, esp. As monarch. 2 assent or agree.
[latin: related to *cede]
Accelerator n. 1 device for increasing speed, esp. The pedal controlling the
speed of a vehicle’s engine. 2 physics apparatus for imparting high speeds to
speed of a vehicle’s engine. 2 physics apparatus for imparting high speeds to
charged particles.
Access —n. 1 way of approach or entry (shop with rear access). 2 a right or
opportunity to reach or use or visit; admittance (access to secret files, to the
prisoner). B accessibility. 3 archaic outburst (an access of anger). —v. 1
computing gain access to (data etc.). 2 accession. [french: related to *accede]
Accession —n. 1 taking office, esp. As monarch. 2 thing added. —v. Record the
addition of (a new item) to a library etc.
Access road n. Road giving access only to the properties along it.
Accompany v. (-ies, -ied) 1 go with; escort. 2 (usu. In passive; foll. By with, by)
be done or found with; supplement. 3 mus. Partner with accompaniment.
[french: related to *companion]
Accession —n. 1 taking office, esp. As monarch. 2 thing added. —v. Record the
addition of (a new item) to a library etc.
Access road n. Road giving access only to the properties along it.
Accompany v. (-ies, -ied) 1 go with; escort. 2 (usu. In passive; foll. By with, by)
be done or found with; supplement. 3 mus. Partner with accompaniment.
[french: related to *companion]
Accouterments n.pl. (brit. Accoutrements) 1 equipment, trappings. 2 soldier’s
equipment excluding weapons and clothes. [french]
Accrue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) (often foll. By to) come as a natural increase or
advantage, esp. Financial. [latin: related to *accretion]
Accumulator n. 1 rechargeable electric cell. 2 bet placed on a sequence of
events, with the winnings and stake from each placed on the next.
Accurate adj. Careful, precise; conforming exactly with the truth or a standard.
accurately adv.
Accuse v. (-sing) (often foll. By of) charge with a fault or crime; blame. [latin
accusare: related to *cause]
Accustomed adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By to) used to a thing. 2 customary, usual.
Ace —n. 1 playing-card etc. With a single spot and generally signifying ‘one’. 2
a person who excels in some activity. B pilot who has shot down many enemy
aircraft. 3 (in tennis) unreturnable stroke (esp. A service). —adj. Slang excellent.
within an ace of on the verge of. [latin as unity]
Aceous suffix forming adjectives in the sense ‘of the nature of’, esp. In the
natural sciences (herbaceous). [latin -aceus]
Acerbic adj. Harsh and sharp, esp. In speech or manner. acerbity n. (pl. -ies).
[latin acerbus sour]
Acetate n. 1 salt or ester of acetic acid, esp. The cellulose ester. 2 fabric made
from this.
Acetic acid n. Clear liquid acid giving vinegar its characteristic taste.
Acetylene n. Hydrocarbon gas burning with a bright flame, used esp. In welding.
Ache —n. 1 continuous dull pain. 2 mental distress. —v. (-ching) suffer from or
be the source of an ache. [old english]
Achilles heel n. Person’s weak or vulnerable point. [achilles, greek hero in the
iliad]
Achilles tendon n. Tendon connecting the heel with the calf muscles.
Acid —n. 1 a any of a class of substances that liberate hydrogen ions in water,
Acid —n. 1 a any of a class of substances that liberate hydrogen ions in water,
are usu. Sour and corrosive, turn litmus red, and have a ph of less than 7. B any
compound or atom donating protons. 2 any sour substance. 3 slang the drug lsd.
—adj. 1 sour. 2 biting, sharp (an acid wit). 3 chem. Having the essential
properties of an acid. acidic adj. Acidify v. (-ies, -ied). Acidity n. Acidly adv.
[latin aceo be sour]
Acid house n. A type of synthesized music with a simple repetitive beat, often
associated with hallucinogenic drugs.
Acid rain n. Acid, esp. From industrial waste gases, falling with rain.
Acorn n. Fruit of the oak, with a smooth nut in a cuplike base. [old english]
Acoustic adj. 1 of sound or the sense of hearing. 2 (of a musical instrument etc.)
Without electrical amplification (acoustic guitar). acoustically adv. [greek akouo
hear]
Acquire v. (-ring) gain for oneself; come into possession of. [latin: related to
*ad-, quaero quisit-seek]
Acquit v. (-tt-) 1 (often foll. By of) declare not guilty. 2 refl. A behave or
perform in a specified way (acquitted herself well). B (foll. By of) discharge (a
duty or responsibility). acquittal n. [latin: related to ad-, quit]
Acre n. Measure of land, 4,840 sq. Yds., 0.405 ha. [old english]
Acrid adj. (-er, -est) bitterly pungent. acridity n. [latin acer keen, pungent]
Acronym n. Word formed from the initial letters of other words (e.g. Laser,
nato). [greek akron end, onoma name]
Acropolis n. Citadel of an ancient greek city. [greek akron summit, polis city]
Across —prep. 1 to or on the other side of (across the river). 2 from one side to
another side of (spread across the floor). 3 at or forming an angle with (a stripe
across the flag). —adv. 1 to or on the other side (ran across). 2 from one side to
another (stretched across). across the board applying to all. [french à, en, croix:
related to *cross]
Acrostic n. Poem etc. In which certain letters (usu. The first and last in each line)
form a word or words. [greek akron end, stikhos row]
Acrylic —adj. Of synthetic material made from acrylic acid. —n. Acrylic fibre
or fabric. [latin acer pungent, oleo to smell]
Act —n. 1 something done; a deed. 2 process of doing (caught in the act). 3 item
of entertainment. 4 pretence (all an act). 5 main division of a play etc. 6 a decree
of a legislative body. B document attesting a legal transaction. —v. 1 behave
(acted wisely). 2 perform an action or function; take action (act as referee;
brakes failed to act; he acted quickly). 3 (also foll. By on) have an effect (alcohol
acts on the brain). 4 a perform a part in a play, film, etc. B pretend. 5 a play the
part of (acted othello; acts the fool). B perform (a play etc.). C portray (an
incident) by actions. act for be the (esp. Legal) representative of. Act of god
natural event, e.g. An earthquake. Act up colloq. Misbehave; give trouble (car is
acting up). Get one’s act together slang become properly organized; prepare. Put
on an act colloq. Make a pretence. [latin ago act-do]
Action stations n.pl. Positions taken up by troops etc. Ready for battle.
Activate v. (-ting) 1 make active. 2 chem. Cause reaction in. 3 make radioactive.
Active —adj. 1 marked by action; energetic; diligent (an active life). 2 working,
operative (active volcano). 3 not merely passive or inert; positive (active
support; active ingredients). 4 radioactive. 5 gram. Designating the form of a
verb whose subject performs the action (e.g. Saw in he saw a film). —n. Gram.
Active form or voice of a verb. actively adv. [latin: related to *act]
Active service n. Military service in wartime.
Activity n. (pl. -ies) 1 being active; busy or energetic action. 2 (often in pl.)
Occupation or pursuit (outdoor activities). 3 = *radioactivity.
Actor n. Person who acts in a play, film, etc. [latin: related to *act]
Actual adj. (usu. Attrib.) 1 existing in fact; real. 2 current. [latin: related to *act]
Actually adv. 1 as a fact, really (not actually very rich). 2 strange as it may seem
(he actually refused!).
Actuary n. (pl. -ies) statistician, esp. One calculating insurance risks and
premiums. actuarial adj. [latin actuarius bookkeeper]
Acute —adj. (acuter, acutest) 1 serious, severe (acute hardship). 2 (of senses
etc.) Keen, penetrating. 3 shrewd. 4 (of a disease) coming quickly to a crisis. 5
(of an angle) less than 90°. 6 (of a sound) high, shrill. —n. = *acute accent.
acutely adv. [latin acutus pointed]
Acute accent n. Diacritical mark (´) placed over certain letters in french etc., esp.
To show pronunciation.
Adagio mus. —adv. & adj. In slow time. —n. (pl. -s) such a movement or
passage. [italian]
Adam n. The first man. not know a person from adam be unable to recognize a
person. [hebrew, = man]
Adapt v. 1 a (foll. By to) fit, adjust (one thing to another). B (foll. By to, for)
make suitable for a purpose. C modify (esp. A text for broadcasting etc.). 2 (also
refl., usu. Foll. By to) adjust to new conditions. adaptable adj. Adaptation n.
[latin: related to ad-, apt]
Addendum n. (pl. -da) 1 thing to be added. 2 material added at the end of a book.
Adder n. Small venomous snake, esp. The common viper. [old english,
originally nadder]
Addicted adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By to) dependent on a drug etc. As a habit. 2 devoted
to an interest. addiction n.
Addition n. 1 adding. 2 person or thing added. in addition (often foll. By to) also,
as well (as). [latin: related to *add]
Addle v. (-ling) 1 muddle, confuse. 2 (usu. As addled adj.) (of an egg) become
rotten. [old english, = filth]
Adenoids n.pl. Area of enlarged lymphatic tissue between the nose and the
throat, often hindering breathing in the young. adenoidal adj. [greek aden gland]
Adept —adj. (foll. By at, in) skilful. —n. Adept person. [latin adipiscor adept-
attain]
Adhere v. (-ring) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) stick fast to a substance etc. 2 (foll. By to)
behave according to (a rule, undertaking, etc.). 3 (foll. By to) give allegiance.
[latin haereo stick]
Ad hoc adv. & adj. For one particular occasion or use. [latin]
Adipose adj. Of fat; fatty (adipose tissue). adiposity n. [latin adeps fat]
Adjacent adj. (often foll. By to) lying near; adjoining. adjacency n. [latin jaceo
lie]
Adjourn v. 1 put off, postpone; break off (a meeting etc.) Temporarily. 2 (of a
meeting) break and disperse or (foll. By to) transfer to another place (adjourned
to the pub). adjournment n. [latin: related to *ad-, diurnum day]
Ad lib —v. (-bb-) improvise. —adj. Improvised. —adv. As one pleases, to any
desired extent. [abbreviation of latin ad libitum according to pleasure]
Admiralty n. (pl. -ies) (in full admiralty board) hist. Committee superintending
the royal navy.
Admixture n. 1 thing added, esp. A minor ingredient. 2 adding of this.
Ado n. Fuss, busy activity; trouble. [from at, do1: originally in much ado = much
to do]
Adore v. (-ring) 1 love intensely. 2 worship as divine. 3 colloq. Like very much.
adoration n. Adorer n. [latin adoro worship]
Adorn v. Add beauty to; decorate. adornment n. [latin: related to *ad-, orno
decorate]
Adrenal —adj. 1 at or near the kidneys. 2 of the adrenal glands. —n. (in full
adrenal gland) either of two ductless glands above the kidneys, secreting
adrenalin. [from ad-, renal]
Adsorb v. (usu. Of a solid) hold (molecules of a gas or liquid etc.) To its surface,
forming a thin film. adsorbent adj. & n. Adsorption n. [from ad-, absorb]
Advance —v. (-cing) 1 move or put forward; progress. 2 pay or lend (money)
beforehand. 3 promote (a person, cause, etc.). 4 present (a suggestion etc.). 5 (as
advanced adj.) A well ahead. B socially progressive. —n. 1 going forward;
progress. 2 prepayment; loan. 3 (in pl.) Amorous approaches. 4 rise in price. —
attrib. Adj. Done or supplied beforehand (advance warning). advance on
approach threateningly. In advance ahead in place or time. [latin: related to *ab-,
ante before]
Adverse adj. Unfavourable; harmful. adversely adv. [latin: related to *ad-, verto
vers-turn]
Usage the variant advisor is fairly common, but is considered incorrect by many
people.
Advocate —n. 1 (foll. By of) person who supports or speaks in favour. 2 person
who pleads for another, esp. In a lawcourt. —v. (-ting) recommend by argument.
[latin: related to *ad-, voco call]
Adz n. (brit adze) tool like an axe, with an arched blade at right angles to the
handle. [old english]
Adze n. (us adz) tool like an axe, with an arched blade at right angles to the
handle. [old english]
Aeolian harp n. Stringed instrument or toy sounding when the wind passes
through it. [latin aeolus wind-god, from greek]
Aeon n. (also eon) 1 long or indefinite period. 2 an age. [latin from greek]
Aerate v. (-ting) 1 charge (a liquid) with carbon dioxide. 2 expose to air. aeration
n. [latin aer *air]
Aerial —n. Device for transmitting or receiving radio waves. —adj. 1 by or from
the air; involving aircraft (aerial attack). 2 existing in the air. 3 of or like air.
[greek: related to *air]
Aeronautics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Science or practice of motion in the air.
aeronautic adj. Aeronautical adj. [from *aero-, *nautical]
Usage affect should not be confused with effect, meaning ‘to bring about’. Note
also that effect is used as a noun as well as a verb.
also that effect is used as a noun as well as a verb.
Affiliate —v. (-ting) (foll. By to, with) attach, adopt, or connect as a member or
branch. —n. Affiliated person etc. [latin: related to *filial]
Affix —v. 1 attach, fasten. 2 add in writing. —n. 1 addition. 2 gram. Prefix or
suffix. [latin: related to *fix]
Afford v. 1 (prec. By can or be able to) a have enough money, time, etc., for; be
able to spare. B be in a position (can’t afford to be critical). 2 provide (affords a
view of the sea). [old english ge-prefix implying completeness, *forth]
Afforest v. 1 convert into forest. 2 plant with trees. afforestation n. [latin: related
to *forest]
Affront —n. Open insult. —v. Insult openly; offend, embarrass. [latin: related to
*front]
Afield adv. To or at a distance (esp. Far afield). [old english: related to *a2]
Afore prep. & adv. Archaic before; previously; in front (of). [old english: related
to *a2]
Afore prep. & adv. Archaic before; previously; in front (of). [old english: related
to *a2]
Afraid predic. Adj. Alarmed, frightened. be afraid colloq. Politely regret (i’m
afraid we’re late). [originally past part. Of *affray]
African violet n. House-plant with velvety leaves and blue, purple, or pink
flowers.
Afro —adj. (of hair) tightly-curled and bushy. —n. (pl. -s) afro hairstyle.
Aft adv. Naut. & aeron. At or towards the stern or tail. [earlier baft]
After —prep. 1 following in time; later than (after a week). 2 in view of, in spite
of (after what you did what do you expect?; after all my efforts i still lost). 3
behind (shut the door after you). 4 in pursuit or quest of (run after them). 5
about, concerning (asked after her). 6 in allusion to (named after the prince). 7 in
imitation of (a painting after rubens). 8 next in importance to (best one after
mine). —conj. Later than (left after they arrived). —adv. 1 later (soon after). 2
behind (followed on after). —adj. 1 later, following (in after years). 2 naut.
Nearer the stern (after cabins). after all in spite of everything (after all, what does
it matter?). After one’s own heart to one’s taste. [old english]
Afterwards adv. (us afterward) later, subsequently. [old english: related to after,
-ward]
Again adv. 1 another time; once more. 2 as previously (home again; well again).
3 in addition (as much again). 4 further, besides (again, what about you?). 5 on
the other hand (i might, and again i might not). again and again repeatedly. [old
english]
Agaric n. Fungus with a cap and stalk, e.g. The common mushroom. [greek
agarikon]
Agave n. Plant with rosettes of narrow spiny leaves and flowers on tall stem.
[agave, name of a woman in greek mythology]
Age —n. 1 length of time that a person or thing has existed. 2 a colloq. (often in
pl.) A long time (waited for ages). B distinct historical period (bronze age). 3 old
age. —v. (ageing) 1 show or cause to show signs of advancing age. 2 grow old. 3
mature. come of age reach adult status (esp. Law at 18, formerly 21). [latin
aetas]
Agent n. 1 a person who acts for another in business etc. B spy. 2 person or thing
that exerts power or produces an effect.
Agglomerate —v. (-ting) collect into a mass. —n. Mass, esp. Of fused volcanic
fragments. —adj. Collected into a mass. agglomeration n. [latin glomus -meris
ball]
Aggrandize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 increase the power, rank or wealth of.
2 make seem greater. aggrandizement n. [french: related to *grand]
Aggregate —n. 1 sum total, amount assembled. 2 crushed stone etc. Used in
making concrete. 3 rock formed of a mass of different particles or minerals. —
adj. Combined, collective, total. —v. (-ting) 1 collect, combine into one mass. 2
colloq. Amount to. 3 unite. in the aggregate as a whole. aggregation n.
Aggregative adj. [latin grex greg-flock]
Aghast predic. Adj. Filled with dismay or consternation. [past part. Of obsolete
(a)gast frighten]
Agile adj. Quick-moving, nimble, active. agility n. [latin agilis: related to *act]
Agnail n. Piece of torn skin at the root of a fingernail; resulting soreness. [old
english, = tight (metal) nail, hard excrescence in flesh]
Agnostic —n. Person who believes that the existence of god is not provable. —
adj. Of agnosticism. agnosticism n. [from a-, gnostic]
Ago adv. (prec. By duration) earlier, in the past. [originally agone = gone by]
Agog predic. Adj. Eager, expectant. [french gogue fun]
Agonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 undergo (esp. Mental) anguish; suffer or
cause to suffer agony. 2 (as agonized adj.) Expressing agony (an agonized look).
Agony aunt n. Colloq. Person (esp. A woman) who answers letters in an agony
column.
Agree v. (-ees, -eed, -eeing) 1 hold the same opinion (i agree with you). 2
consent (agreed to go). 3 (often foll. By with) a become or be in harmony. B suit
(fish didn’t agree with him). C gram. Have the same number, gender, case, or
person as. 4 reach agreement about (agreed a price). 5 (foll. By on) decide
mutually on (agreed on a compromise). be agreed be of one opinion. [latin:
related to *ad-, gratus pleasing]
Agrimony n. (pl. -ies) perennial plant with small yellow flowers. [greek
argemone poppy]
Aground predic. Adj. & adv. On or on to the bottom of shallow water (run
aground).
Ah abbr. In the year of the hegira (ad 622); of the muslim era. [latin anno
hegirae]
Aha int. Expressing surprise, triumph, mockery, etc. [from ah, ha1]
Ahead adv. 1 further forward in space or time. 2 in the lead (ahead on points).
Ahem int. Used to attract attention, gain time, etc. [from *hem2]
Aid —n. 1 help. 2 person or thing that helps. —v. 1 help. 2 promote (sleep will
aid recovery). in aid of 1 in support of. 2 colloq. For the purpose of (what’s it all
in aid of?). [latin: related to *ad-, juvo help]
Aids n. (also aids) acquired immune deficiency syndrome, an often fatal viral
Aids n. (also aids) acquired immune deficiency syndrome, an often fatal viral
syndrome marked by severe loss of resistance to infection. [abbreviation]
Aim —v. 1 intend or try; attempt (aim at winning; aim to win). 2 (usu. Foll. By
at) direct or point (a weapon, remark, etc.). 3 take aim. —n. 1 purpose or object.
2 the directing of a weapon etc. At an object. take aim direct a weapon etc. At a
target. [latin aestimare reckon]
Ain’t contr. Colloq. 1 am, is, or are not. 2 have or has not.
Usage the use of ain’t is usually regarded as unacceptable in spoken and written
english.
Ain’t contr. Colloq. 1 am, is, or are not. 2 have or has not.
Usage the use of ain’t is usually regarded as unacceptable in spoken and written
english.
Air —n. 1 mixture mainly of oxygen and nitrogen surrounding the earth. 2
earth’s atmosphere; open space in it; this as a place for flying aircraft. 3 a
distinctive impression or manner (air of mystery). B (esp. In pl.) Pretentiousness
(gave himself airs). 4 tune. 5 light wind. —v. 1 expose (clothes, a room, etc.) To
fresh air or warmth to remove damp. 2 express and discuss publicly (an opinion,
question, grievance, etc.). by air by or in an aircraft. In the air 1 (of opinions etc.)
Prevalent. 2 (of plans etc.) Uncertain. On (or off) the air being (or not being)
broadcast. [greek aer]
Airborne adj. 1 transported by air. 2 (of aircraft) in the air after taking off.
Air chief marshal n. Raf officer of high rank, above air marshal.
Airer n. Stand for airing or drying clothes etc.
Air letter n. Sheet of light paper forming a letter for sending by airmail.
Airlift —n. Emergency transport of supplies etc. By air. —v. Transport thus.
Airplane n. Us = *aeroplane.
Air vice-marshal n. Raf officer of high rank, just below air marshal.
Aisle n. 1 the part of a church on either side of the nave, divided from it by
pillars. 2 passage between rows of pews, seats, etc. [latin ala wing]
Ajar adv. & predic.adj. (of a door) slightly open. [from *a2, obsolete char from
old english cerr a turn]
Akela n. Adult leader of cub scouts. [name of the leader of the wolf-pack in
kipling’s jungle book]
Akimbo adv. (of the arms) with hands on the hips and elbows turned outwards.
[originally in kenebowe, probably from old norse]
Al symb. Aluminium.
-al suffix 1 (also -ial) forming adjectives meaning ‘relating to, of the kind of’
(central; tidal; dictatorial). 2 forming nouns, esp. Of verbal action (removal).
[latin -alis]
Alabaster —n. Translucent usu. White form of gypsum, used for carving etc. —
adj. 1 of alabaster. 2 white or smooth. [greek alabastros]
Alas int. Expressing grief, pity, or concern. [french: related to *ah, latin lassus
weary]
Alb n. Long white vestment worn by christian priests. [latin albus white]
Albino n. (pl. -s) 1 person or animal lacking pigment in the skin and hair (which
are white), and the eyes (usu. Pink). 2 plant lacking normal colouring. albinism
n. [spanish and portuguese: related to *alb]
Albumen n. 1 egg-white. 2 substance found between the skin and germ of many
seeds, usu. The edible part. [latin: related to *album]
Alchemy n. Medieval chemistry, esp. Seeking to turn base metals into gold.
alchemist n. [arabic]
Alcohol n. 1 (in full ethyl alcohol) colourless volatile inflammable liquid, esp.
As the intoxicant in wine, beer, spirits, etc., and as a solvent, fuel, etc. 2 liquor
containing this. 3 chem. Any of many organic compounds containing one or
more hydroxyl groups attached to carbon atoms. [arabic: related to *kohl]
Aldehyde n. Chem. Any of a class of compounds formed by the oxidation of
alcohols. [from *alcohol, de-, hydrogen]
Al dente adj. (of pasta etc.) Cooked so as to be still firm when bitten. [italian, =
‘to the tooth’]
Alexandrine —adj. (of a line of verse) having six iambic feet. —n. Alexandrine
line. [french alexandre, title of a romance using this metre]
Algebra n. Branch of mathematics that uses letters etc. To represent numbers and
quantities. algebraic adj. [ultimately from arabic al-jabr, = reunion of broken
parts]
Algorithm n. Process or set of rules used for calculation etc., esp. With a
computer. algorithmic adj. [persian, name of a 9th-c. Mathematician al-
kuwarizmi]
Alias —adv. Also named or known as. —n. Assumed name. [latin, = at another
time]
Alibi n. (pl. -s) 1 claim or proof that one was elsewhere when a crime etc. Was
committed. 2 informal excuse. [latin, = elsewhere]
Alight1 predic. Adj. 1 on fire. 2 lit up; excited. [on a light (= lighted) fire]
Alight2 v. 1 (often foll. By from) descend from a vehicle. 2 come to earth, settle.
[old english]
Align v. 1 put or bring into line. 2 (usu. Foll. By with) ally (oneself etc.) With (a
cause, party, etc.). alignment n. [french à ligne into line]
Aliphatic adj. Chem. Of organic compounds in which carbon atoms form open
chains, not aromatic rings. [greek aleiphar -phat-fat]
Aliquot —adj. (of a part or portion) contained by the whole an integral number
of times (4 is an aliquot part of 12). —n. 1 aliquot part. 2 (in general use) any
known fraction of a whole; sample. [latin, = several]
Alive adj. (usu. Predic.) 1 living. 2 lively, active. 3 (foll. By to) aware of; alert. 4
(foll. By with) swarming or teeming with. [old english: related to a2, life]
Alkali n. (pl. -s) 1 a any of a class of substances that liberate hydroxide ions in
water, usu. Form caustic or corrosive solutions, turn litmus blue, and have a ph
of more than 7, e.g. Caustic soda.
All —adj. 1 whole amount, quantity, or extent of (all day; all his life; take it all).
2 any whatever (beyond all doubt). 3 greatest possible (with all speed). —n. 1 all
concerned; everything (all were present; all is lost). 2 (foll. By of) a the whole of
(take all of it). B every one of (all of us). C colloq. As much as (all of six feet). D
colloq. In a state of (all of a dither). 3 one’s whole strength or resources (prec.
By my, your, etc.). 4 (in games) each (two goals all). —adv. 1 a entirely, quite
(dressed all in black). B as an intensifier (stop all this grumbling). 2 colloq. Very
(went all shy). 3 (foll. By the + compar.) To that, or the utmost, extent (if they
go, all the better; that makes it all the worse). all along from the beginning. All
and sundry everyone. All but very nearly. All for colloq. Strongly in favour of.
All found with board and lodging provided free. All in colloq. Exhausted. All in
All found with board and lodging provided free. All in colloq. Exhausted. All in
all everything considered. All manner of every kind of. All of a sudden
suddenly. All one (or the same) (usu. Foll. By to) a matter of indifference. All
out using all one’s strength (also (with hyphen) attrib.: all-out effort). All over 1
completely finished. 2 in or on all parts of (mud all over the carpet). 3 colloq.
Typically (you all over). 4 slang effusively attentive to (a person). All right
(predic.) 1 satisfactory; safe and sound; in good condition. 2 satisfactorily (it
worked out all right). 3 a expressing consent. B as an intensifier (that’s the one
all right). All round 1 in all respects. 2 for each person. All the same
nevertheless. All there colloq. Mentally alert or normal. All the time throughout
(despite some contrary expectation etc.). All together all at once; all in one place
or in a group (came all together) (cf. *altogether). All up with hopeless for (a
person). At all (with neg. Or interrog.) In any way; to any extent (did not swim
at all; did you like it at all?). In all in total; altogether. [old english]
Usage note the differences in meaning between all together and altogether: see
note at altogether.
Allay v. 1 diminish (fear, suspicion, etc.). 2 alleviate (pain etc.). [old english a-
intensive prefix, *lay1]
Allegretto mus. —adv. & adj. In a fairly brisk tempo. —n. (pl. -s) such a passage
or movement. [italian, diminutive of *allegro]
Allegro mus. —adv. & adj. In a brisk tempo. —n. (pl. -s) such a passage or
movement. [italian, = lively]
Alleluia (also hallelujah) —int. God be praised. —n. Song or shout of praise to
god. [hebrew]
Allen key n. Propr. Spanner designed to turn an allen screw. [allen, name of the
us manufacturer]
Allergic adj. 1 (foll. By to) a having an allergy to. B colloq. Having a strong
dislike for. 2 caused by an allergy.
Alleviate v. (-ting) make (pain etc.) Less severe. alleviation n. [latin levo raise]
Alley n. (pl. -s) 1 narrow street or passageway. 2 enclosure for skittles, bowling,
etc. 3 walk or lane in a park etc. [french aller go]
Alligator n. Large reptile of the crocodile family with a head broader and shorter
than a crocodile’s. [spanish el lagarto the lizard]
Allow v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin.) Permit. 2 assign a limited amount etc. (was
allowed £500). 3 (usu. Foll. By for) provide or set aside for a purpose; add or
deduct in consideration (allow £50 for expenses; allow for wastage). [originally
= commend, from french: related to *ad-, latin laudo praise, loco place]
Alloy —n. 1 mixture of two or more metals. 2 inferior metal mixed esp. With
gold or silver. —v. 1 mix (metals). 2 debase by admixture. 3 moderate (pleasure
alloyed with pain). [french: related to *ally]
All souls’ day n. 2 nov., roman catholic festival with prayers for the souls of the
dead.
Allspice n. 1 aromatic spice obtained from the berry of the pimento plant. 2 the
berry.
Allude v. (-ding) (foll. By to) refer to, esp. Indirectly or briefly. [latin: related to
*ad-, ludo play]
Allure —v. (-ring) attract, charm, or entice. —n. Attractiveness, personal charm,
fascination. allurement n. [french: related to ad-, lure]
Allusion n. (often foll. By to) passing or indirect reference. allusive adj. [latin:
related to *allude]
Alleluia (also hallelujah) —int. God be praised. —n. Song or shout of praise to
god. [hebrew]
Allen key n. Propr. Spanner designed to turn an allen screw. [allen, name of the
us manufacturer]
Allergic adj. 1 (foll. By to) a having an allergy to. B colloq. Having a strong
dislike for. 2 caused by an allergy.
Alleviate v. (-ting) make (pain etc.) Less severe. alleviation n. [latin levo raise]
Alleviate v. (-ting) make (pain etc.) Less severe. alleviation n. [latin levo raise]
Alley n. (pl. -s) 1 narrow street or passageway. 2 enclosure for skittles, bowling,
etc. 3 walk or lane in a park etc. [french aller go]
Alligator n. Large reptile of the crocodile family with a head broader and shorter
than a crocodile’s. [spanish el lagarto the lizard]
Allow v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin.) Permit. 2 assign a limited amount etc. (was
allowed £500). 3 (usu. Foll. By for) provide or set aside for a purpose; add or
deduct in consideration (allow £50 for expenses; allow for wastage). [originally
= commend, from french: related to *ad-, latin laudo praise, loco place]
Alloy —n. 1 mixture of two or more metals. 2 inferior metal mixed esp. With
gold or silver. —v. 1 mix (metals). 2 debase by admixture. 3 moderate (pleasure
alloyed with pain). [french: related to *ally]
All souls’ day n. 2 nov., roman catholic festival with prayers for the souls of the
dead.
Allspice n. 1 aromatic spice obtained from the berry of the pimento plant. 2 the
berry.
Allude v. (-ding) (foll. By to) refer to, esp. Indirectly or briefly. [latin: related to
*ad-, ludo play]
Allure —v. (-ring) attract, charm, or entice. —n. Attractiveness, personal charm,
fascination. allurement n. [french: related to ad-, lure]
Allusion n. (often foll. By to) passing or indirect reference. allusive adj. [latin:
related to *allude]
related to *allude]
Alluvium n. (pl. -via) deposit of usu. Fine fertile soil left behind by a flood, esp.
In a river valley. [latin luo wash]
Ally —n. (pl. -ies) state, person, etc., formally cooperating or united with
another, esp. (also ally) in war. —v. Also (-ies, -ied) (often refl. And foll. By
with) combine in alliance. [latin alligo bind]
Almighty adj. 1 having complete power. 2 (the almighty) god. 3 slang very great
(almighty crash). [old english: related to all, mighty]
Almond n. 1 nutlike kernel of a fruit allied to the peach and plum. 2 tree bearing
this. [greek amugdale]
Almost adv. All but; very nearly. [old english: related to all, most]
Alms n.pl. Hist. Donation of money or food to the poor. [greek eleemosune pity]
Aloe n. 1 plant of the lily family with toothed fleshy leaves. 2 (in pl.) (in full
bitter aloes) strong laxative from aloe juice. [old english from greek]
Aloft predic. Adj. & adv. 1 high up, overhead. 2 upwards. [old norse á lopti in
air]
Alone —predic. Adj. 1 without the presence or help of others. 2 lonely (felt
alone). —adv. Only, exclusively. [earlier al one: related to all, one]
Along —prep. Beside or through (part of) the length of. —adv. 1 onward, into a
more advanced state (come along; getting along nicely). 2 with oneself or others
(bring a book along). 3 beside or through part or the whole length of a thing.
along with in addition to; together with. [old english, originally adj. = facing
against]
Aloof —adj. Distant, unsympathetic. —adv. Away, apart (he kept aloof).
[originally naut., from *a2 + *luff]
Alpaca n. 1 shaggy s. American mammal related to the llama. 2 its wool; fabric
made from this. [spanish from quechua]
Alpha n. 1 first letter of the greek alphabet (a, a). 2 first-class mark for a piece of
work etc. alpha and omega beginning and end. [latin from greek]
Alpine —adj. Of mountainous regions or (alpine) the alps. —n. 1 plant growing
in mountainous regions. 2 = *rock-plant. [latin: related to *alp]
Already adv. 1 before the time in question (i knew that already). 2 as early or as
soon as this (is back already). [from all, ready]
Alter ego n. (pl. -s) 1 one’s hidden or second self. 2 intimate friend. [latin, =
other self]
Alter ego n. (pl. -s) 1 one’s hidden or second self. 2 intimate friend. [latin, =
other self]
Alternate —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By with) occur or cause to occur by turns. 2
(foll. By between) go repeatedly from one to another (alternated between hope
and fear). —adj. 1 (with noun in pl.) Every other (on alternate days). 2 (of things
of two kinds) alternating (alternate joy and misery). alternately adv. Alternation
n. [latin alterno do by turns: related to *alter]
Alternate angles n.pl. Two angles formed alternately on two sides of a line.
Usage the adjective alternative should not be confused with alternate, as in ‘there
will be a dance on alternate saturdays’.
Altitude n. Height, esp. Of an object above sea level or above the horizon. [latin
altus high]
Alto n. (pl. -s) 1 = *contralto. 2 a highest adult male singing-voice, above tenor.
B singer with this voice. 3 instrument pitched second-or third-highest in its
family. [italian alto (canto) high (singing)]
Usage note that altogether means ‘in total’, whereas all together means ‘all at
once’ or ‘all in one place’. The phrases six rooms altogether (in total) and six
rooms all together (in one place) illustrate the difference.
Alumnus n. (pl. Alumni; fem. Alumna, pl. Alumnae) former pupil or student.
[latin, = nursling, pupil]
Alyssum n. Plant with small usu. Yellow or white flowers. [greek, = curing
madness]
Am symb. Americium.
Amalgam n. 1 mixture or blend. 2 alloy of mercury and another metal, used esp.
In dentistry. [greek malagma an emollient]
Amanuensis n. (pl. -enses) literary assistant, esp. Writing from dictation. [latin a
manu ‘at hand’]
Amaranth n. 1 plant with small green, red, or purple tinted flowers. 2 imaginary
unfading flower. 3 purple colour. amaranthine adj. [greek amarantos unfading]
Amass v. Heap together; accumulate. [french: related to ad-, mass1]
Amaze v. (-zing) surprise greatly, fill with wonder. amazement n. Amazing adj.
[earlier amase from old english amasod]
Amazon n. 1 female warrior of a mythical race in the black sea area. 2 (amazon)
large, strong, or athletic woman. amazonian adj. [latin from greek]
Ambidextrous adj. Able to use either hand equally well. [latin ambi-on both
sides, *dexter]
Amble —v. (-ling) move at an easy pace. —n. Such a pace. [latin ambulo walk]
Ambush —n. 1 surprise attack by persons hiding. 2 hiding-place for this. —v.
Attack from an ambush; waylay. [french: related to in-1, bush1]
Amen int. (esp. At the end of a prayer etc.) So be it. [church latin from hebrew, =
certainly]
Amenable adj. 1 responsive, docile. 2 (often foll. By to) answerable to law etc.
[french: related to *ad-, latin mino drive animals]
Usage amend is often confused with emend, a more technical word used in the
context of textual correction.
American —adj. Of america, esp. The united states. —n. 1 native, citizen, or
inhabitant of america, esp. The us. 2 english as used in the us. americanize v.
(also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [name of navigator amerigo vespucci]
Americanism n. Word etc. Of us origin or usage.
Amiable adj. (esp. Of a person) friendly and pleasant, likeable. amiably adv.
[latin: related to *amicable]
Amiable adj. (esp. Of a person) friendly and pleasant, likeable. amiably adv.
[latin: related to *amicable]
Amid prep. In the middle of, among. [old english: related to on, mid]
Amidships adv. In or into the middle of a ship. [from *amid, alternative form
midships]
midships]
Ammonia n. 1 pungent strongly alkaline gas. 2 (in general use) solution of
ammonia in water. [as *sal ammoniac]
Amnesty —n. (pl. -ies) general pardon, esp. For political offences. —v. (-ies, -
ied) grant an amnesty to. [greek amnestia oblivion]
Among prep. (also amongst) 1 surrounded by, with (lived among the trees; be
among friends). 2 included in (among us were dissidents). 3 in the category of
(among his best works). 4 a between; shared by (divide it among you). B from
the joint resources of (among us we can manage it). 5 with one another (talked
among themselves). [old english, = in a crowd]
Amorous adj. Of, showing, or feeling sexual love. [latin amor love]
Amount —n. Quantity, esp. A total in number, size, value, extent, etc. —v. (foll.
By to) be equivalent to in number, significance, etc. [latin ad montem upward]
Ampelopsis n. (pl. Same) climbing plant related to the vine. [greek ampelos
vine, opsis appearance]
Amplify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 increase the strength of (sound, electrical signals, etc.).
2 add detail to, expand (a story etc.). amplification n. [latin: related to *ample]
Ampulla n. (pl. -pullae) 1 roman globular flask with two handles. 2 ecclesiastical
vessel. [latin]
An see *a1.
An-see *a-.
-an suffix (also -ian) forming adjectives and nouns, esp. From names of places,
systems, classes, etc. (mexican; anglican; crustacean). [french -ain, latin -anus]
Anabaptist n. Member of a religious group believing in baptism only of adults.
[greek ana again]
Anaesthetize v. (us anes-) (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) administer an anaesthetic to.
Analogize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) use, or represent or explain by, analogy.
Analogous adj. (usu. Foll. By to) partially similar or parallel. [greek analogos
proportionate]
Analogue n. (us analog) 1 analogous thing. 2 (attrib.) (usu. Analog) (of a
computer etc.) Using physical variables, e.g. Voltage, to represent numbers (cf.
*digital).
Anapaest n. Metrical foot consisting of two short syllables followed by one long
syllable (&anapaest.). [greek anapaistos reversed (dactyl)]
Anarchism n. Political theory that all government and laws should be abolished.
[french: related to *anarchy]
Anarchy n. Disorder, esp. Political. anarchic adj. [greek an-without, arkhe rule]
Anathema n. (pl. -s) 1 detested thing (is anathema to me). 2 ecclesiastical curse.
[greek, = thing devoted (i.e. To evil)]
Ancestor n. 1 person, animal, or plant from which another has descended or
evolved. 2 prototype or forerunner. [latin ante-before, cedo go]
Anchor —n. 1 heavy metal weight used to moor a ship or a balloon. 2 stabilizing
thing. —v. 1 secure with an anchor. 2 fix firmly. 3 cast anchor. 4 be moored by
an anchor. [greek agkura]
Anchovy n. (pl. -ies) small strong-flavoured fish of the herring family. [spanish
and portuguese anchova]
Ancien régime n. (pl. Anciens régimes pronunc. Same) 1 political and social
system of pre-revolutionary (before 1787) france. 2 any superseded regime.
[french, = old rule]
Ancient adj. 1 of long ago, esp. Before the fall of the roman empire in the west.
2 having lived or existed long. the ancients people of ancient times, esp. The
greeks and romans. [latin ante before]
Andante mus. —adv. & adj. In a moderately slow tempo. —n. Such a passage or
movement. [italian, = going]
Andiron n. Metal stand (usu. One of a pair) for supporting logs in a fireplace.
[french andier]
Andiron n. Metal stand (usu. One of a pair) for supporting logs in a fireplace.
[french andier]
Androgynous adj. 1 hermaphrodite. 2 bot. With stamens and pistils in the same
flower. [greek aner andr-man, gune woman]
flower. [greek aner andr-man, gune woman]
Anecdote n. Short, esp. True, account or story. anecdotal adj. [greek anekdota
things unpublished]
Aneroid —adj. (of a barometer) measuring air-pressure by its action on the lid of
a box containing a vacuum. —n. Aneroid barometer. [greek a-not, neros water]
Anger —n. Extreme or passionate displeasure. —v. Make angry. [old norse angr
grief]
Angina n. (in full angina pectoris) chest pain brought on by exertion, caused by
an inadequate blood supply to the heart. [greek agkhone strangling]
Angle n. (usu. In pl.) Member of a n. German tribe that settled in e. Britain in the
5th c. [latin anglus, from the name angul in germany]
Angle1 —n. 1 space between two meeting lines or surfaces, esp. As measured in
degrees. 2 corner. 3 point of view. —v. (-ling) 1 move or place obliquely. 2
present (information) in a biased way. [latin angulus]
Angle2 v. (-ling) 1 fish with hook and line. 2 (foll. By for) seek an objective
indirectly (angled for a loan). angler n. [old english]
Anglican —adj. Of the church of england. —n. Member of the anglican church.
anglicanism n. [latin anglicanus: related to *angle]
Anglicize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make english in character etc.
Anglo-french —adj. English (or british) and french. —n. French language as
developed in england after the norman conquest.
Anglo-norman —adj. English and norman. —n. Norman dialect used in england
after the norman conquest.
Angora n. 1 fabric or wool from the hair of the angora goat or rabbit. 2 long-
haired variety of cat, goat, or rabbit. [angora (= ankara) in turkey]
Angostura n. Aromatic bitter bark used as a flavouring. [angostura (= ciudad
bolívar) in venezuela]
Angry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 feeling, showing, or suggesting anger (angry sky). 2 (of
a wound etc.) Inflamed, painful. angrily adv.
Anhydrous adj. Chem. Without water, esp. Water of crystallization. [greek an-
without, hudor water]
Aniline n. Colourless oily liquid used in making dyes, drugs, and plastics.
[german anil indigo, former source]
Animal —n. 1 living organism, esp. Other than man, which feeds and usu. Has
sense-organs and a nervous system and can move quickly. 2 brutish person. —
adj. 1 of or like an animal. 2 bestial; carnal. [latin animalis having breath]
Animalism n. 1 nature and activity of animals. 2 belief that humans are mere
animals.
Animate —adj. 1 having life. 2 lively. —v. (-ting) 1 enliven. 2 give life to. [latin
anima breath]
Animated adj. 1 lively, vigorous. 2 having life. 3 (of a film etc.) Using
animation.
Animism n. Belief that inanimate and natural phenomena have souls. animist n.
Animistic adj.
Anion n. Negatively charged ion. anionic adj. [greek ana up, *ion]
Ankle n. 1 joint connecting the foot with the leg. 2 this part of the leg. [old
norse]
Annatto n. (also anatto) orange-red dye from the pulp of a tropical fruit, used for
Annatto n. (also anatto) orange-red dye from the pulp of a tropical fruit, used for
colouring foods. [carib name of the fruit-tree]
Anneal v. Heat (metal or glass) and cool slowly, esp. To toughen it. [old english
ælan bake]
Anno domini adv. Years after christ’s birth. [latin, = in the year of the lord]
Annotate v. (-ting) add explanatory notes to. annotation n. [latin nota mark]
Annoy v. 1 (often in passive) anger or distress slightly (am annoyed with you). 2
molest, harass. annoyance n. [latin in odio hateful]
Annulate adj. Marked with or formed of rings.
Anode n. Positive electrode in an electrolytic cell etc. [greek anodos way up]
Anodize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) coat (metal) with a protective layer by
electrolysis.
Anoint v. 1 apply oil or ointment to, esp. Ritually. 2 (usu. Foll. By with) smear.
[latin inungo anoint]
Anorexia n. Lack of appetite, esp. (in full anorexia nervosa) an obsessive desire
to lose weight by refusing to eat. anorexic adj. & n. [greek an-without, orexis
appetite]
Another —adj. 1 an additional; one more (another cake). 2 person like (another
hitler). 3 a different (another matter). 4 some other (another man’s work). —
pron. Additional, other, or different person or thing. [earlier an other]
Answerable adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By to, for) responsible (answerable to them for any
accident). 2 that can be answered.
Answering machine n. Tape recorder which answers telephone calls and takes
messages.
Ant n. Small usu. Wingless insect living in complex social colonies and
proverbial for industry. [old english]
Antarctic —adj. Of the south polar regions. —n. This region. [latin: related to
*arctic]
Antarctic circle n. Parallel of latitude 66° 32´ s., forming an imaginary line round
the antarctic region.
Ante —n. 1 stake put up by a player in poker etc. Before receiving cards. 2
amount payable in advance. —v. (-tes, -ted) 1 put up as an ante. 2 us a bet, stake.
B (foll. By up) pay.
Antechamber n. Ante-room.
Antedate v. (-ting) 1 precede in time. 2 assign an earlier than actual date to.
Antediluvian adj. 1 of the time before the flood. 2 colloq. Very old or out of
date. [from *ante-, latin diluvium deluge]
Antelope n. (pl. Same or -s) swift-moving deerlike ruminant, e.g. The gazelle
and gnu. [greek antholops]
Antenna n. 1 (pl. -tennae) each of a pair of feelers on the heads of insects,
crustaceans, etc. 2 (pl. -s) = *aerial n. [latin, = sail-yard]
Ante-post adj. (of betting) done at odds determined at the time of betting, in
advance of the event concerned. [from *ante-, *post1]
Anterior adj. 1 nearer the front. 2 (often foll. By to) prior. [latin from ante
before]
Anthracite n. Hard type of coal burning with little flame and smoke. [greek:
related to *anthrax]
Anti —prep. Opposed to. —n. (pl. -s) person opposed to a policy etc.
Anti-abortion adj. Opposing abortion. anti-abortionist n.
Antibiotic —n. Substance (e.g. Penicillin) that can inhibit or destroy susceptible
micro-organisms. —adj. Functioning as an antibiotic. [greek bios life]
Anticipate v. (-ting) 1 deal with or use before the proper time. 2 expect, foresee
(did not anticipate a problem). 3 forestall (a person or thing). 4 look forward to.
anticipation n. Anticipatory adj. [latin anti-before, capio take]
Anticlockwise adj. & adv. Moving in a curve opposite in direction to the hands
of a clock.
Antigen n. Foreign substance (e.g. Toxin) which causes the body to produce
antibodies. [greek -genes of a kind]
Antiknock n. Substance added to motor fuel to prevent premature combustion.
Anti-lock attrib. Adj. (of brakes) set up so as to prevent locking and skidding
when applied suddenly.
Antimony n. Brittle silvery metallic element used esp. In alloys. [medieval latin]
Antinomian —adj. Believing that christians need not obey the moral law. —n.
(antinomian) hist. Person believing this. [greek nomos law]
Antiparticle n. Elementary particle with the same mass but opposite charge etc.
To another particle.
Antipathy n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. By to, for, between) strong aversion or dislike.
antipathetic adj. [greek: related to *pathetic]
Antipodes n.pl. Places diametrically opposite to one another on the earth, esp.
(also antipodes) australasia in relation to europe. antipodean adj. & n. [greek, =
having the feet opposite]
Antique —n. Old object, esp. A piece of furniture, of high value. —adj. 1 of or
from an early date. 2 old-fashioned. [latin antiquus]
Antiquity n. (pl. -ies) 1 ancient times, esp. Before the middle ages. 2 great age. 3
(usu. In pl.) Relics from ancient times. [latin: related to *antique]
Antitrades n.pl. Winds blowing in the opposite direction to (and usu. Above)
trade winds.
Antrum n. (pl. Antra) natural cavity in the body, esp. In a bone. [greek, = cave]
Anus n. (pl. Anuses) excretory opening at the end of the alimentary canal. [latin]
Any —adj. 1 a one, no matter which, of several (cannot find any answer). B
some, no matter how much or many or of what sort (if any books arrive; have
you any sugar?). 2 a minimal amount of (hardly any difference). 3 whichever is
chosen (any fool knows). 4 an appreciable or significant (did not stay for any
length of time; has any amount of money). —pron. 1 any one (did not know any
of them). 2 any number or amount (are any of them yours?). —adv. (usu. With
neg. Or interrog.) At all (is that any good?). [old english ænig: related to one, -
y1]
Anything pron. Any thing; thing of any sort. anything but not at all.
Anywhere —adv. In or to any place. —pron. Any place (anywhere will do).
Aorta n. (pl. -s) main artery, giving rise to the arterial network carrying
oxygenated blood to the body from the heart. aortic adj. [greek aeiro raise]
Apart adv. 1 separately, not together (keep your feet apart). 2 into pieces (came
apart). 3 to or on one side. 4 to or at a distance. apart from 1 excepting, not
considering. 2 in addition to (apart from roses we grow irises). [french à part to
one side]
Apartment n. 1 (in pl.) Suite of rooms. 2 single room. 3 us flat. [italian a parte,
apart]
Ape —n. 1 tailless monkey-like primate, e.g. The gorilla, chimpanzee, orang-
utan, or gibbon. 2 imitator. —v. (-ping) imitate, mimic. [old english]
Apex n. (also apex) (often attrib.) System of reduced fares for scheduled flights.
[advance purchase excursion]
Aphelion n. (pl. -lia) point in a celestial body’s orbit where it is furthest from the
sun. [greek aph’heliou from the sun]
Aphid n. Small insect infesting and damaging plants, e.g. The greenfly.
Antitrades n.pl. Winds blowing in the opposite direction to (and usu. Above)
trade winds.
Antrum n. (pl. Antra) natural cavity in the body, esp. In a bone. [greek, = cave]
Anus n. (pl. Anuses) excretory opening at the end of the alimentary canal. [latin]
Any —adj. 1 a one, no matter which, of several (cannot find any answer). B
some, no matter how much or many or of what sort (if any books arrive; have
you any sugar?). 2 a minimal amount of (hardly any difference). 3 whichever is
chosen (any fool knows). 4 an appreciable or significant (did not stay for any
length of time; has any amount of money). —pron. 1 any one (did not know any
of them). 2 any number or amount (are any of them yours?). —adv. (usu. With
neg. Or interrog.) At all (is that any good?). [old english ænig: related to one, -
y1]
Anything pron. Any thing; thing of any sort. anything but not at all.
Anywhere —adv. In or to any place. —pron. Any place (anywhere will do).
Aorta n. (pl. -s) main artery, giving rise to the arterial network carrying
oxygenated blood to the body from the heart. aortic adj. [greek aeiro raise]
Apart adv. 1 separately, not together (keep your feet apart). 2 into pieces (came
apart). 3 to or on one side. 4 to or at a distance. apart from 1 excepting, not
considering. 2 in addition to (apart from roses we grow irises). [french à part to
considering. 2 in addition to (apart from roses we grow irises). [french à part to
one side]
Apartment n. 1 (in pl.) Suite of rooms. 2 single room. 3 us flat. [italian a parte,
apart]
Ape —n. 1 tailless monkey-like primate, e.g. The gorilla, chimpanzee, orang-
utan, or gibbon. 2 imitator. —v. (-ping) imitate, mimic. [old english]
Apex n. (also apex) (often attrib.) System of reduced fares for scheduled flights.
[advance purchase excursion]
Aphelion n. (pl. -lia) point in a celestial body’s orbit where it is furthest from the
sun. [greek aph’heliou from the sun]
Aphid n. Small insect infesting and damaging plants, e.g. The greenfly.
Apiary n. (pl. -ies) place where bees are kept. apiarist n. [latin apis bee]
Apiece adv. For each one; severally (five pounds apiece). [originally a piece]
Apocrypha n.pl. 1 books included in the septuagint and vulgate versions of the
old testament but not in the hebrew bible. 2 (apocrypha) writings etc. Not
considered genuine. [greek apokrupto hide away]
Apostate n. Person who renounces a former belief etc. apostatize v. (also -ise) (-
zing or -sing).
Apostle n. 1 (apostle) any of the twelve men sent out by christ to preach the
gospel. 2 leader, esp. Of a new movement. [greek apostolos messenger]
Apothecary n. (pl. -ies) archaic dispensing chemist. [greek apotheke storehouse]
Appal v. (-ll-) 1 greatly dismay or horrify. 2 (as appalling adj.) Colloq. Very bad,
shocking. [french apalir grow pale: related to *pale1]
Apparel n. Formal clothing, dress. apparelled adj. [romanic, = make fit, from
latin par equal]
Appeal —v. 1 request earnestly or formally; plead. 2 (usu. Foll. By to) attract, be
of interest. 3 (foll. By to) resort to for support. 4 law a (often foll. By to) apply
(to a higher court) for reconsideration of a legal decision. B refer (a case) to a
higher court. 5 cricket call on the umpire to declare whether a batsman is out. —
n. 1 act of appealing. 2 request for public support, esp. Financial. 3 law referral
n. 1 act of appealing. 2 request for public support, esp. Financial. 3 law referral
of a case to a higher court. 4 attractiveness. [latin appello address]
Append v. (usu. Foll. By to) attach, affix, add, esp. To a written document. [latin
appendo hang]
Appendix n. (pl. -dices) 1 tissue forming a tube-shaped sac attached to the large
intestine. 2 addition to a book etc. [latin: related to *append]
Appetite n. 1 natural craving, esp. For food or sexual activity. 2 (usu. Foll. By
for) inclination or desire. [latin peto seek]
Appetizer n. (also -iser) small amount, esp. Of food or drink, to stimulate the
appetite.
Appetizing adj. (also -ising) stimulating the appetite, esp. For food; tasty.
Apple n. 1 roundish firm fruit with crisp flesh. 2 tree bearing this. apple of one’s
eye cherished person or thing. [old english]
Apple-pie bed n. Bed made (as a joke) with sheets folded so as to prevent a
person lying flat.
Applicable adj. (often foll. By to) that may be applied; relevant; appropriate.
applicability n. [medieval latin: related to *apply]
Applied adj. Practical, not merely theoretical (applied science).
Appliqué —n. Cutting out of fabric patterns and attaching them to another
fabric. —v. (-qués, -quéd, -quéing) decorate with appliqué. [french, = applied]
Apply v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By for, to, or to + infin.) Formally request. 2 be
relevant. 3 a make use of; employ (apply the rules; apply common sense). B
operate (apply the brakes). 4 (often foll. By to) put or spread on. 5 refl. (often
foll. By to) devote oneself. [latin applico fasten to]
Apply v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By for, to, or to + infin.) Formally request. 2 be
relevant. 3 a make use of; employ (apply the rules; apply common sense). B
operate (apply the brakes). 4 (often foll. By to) put or spread on. 5 refl. (often
foll. By to) devote oneself. [latin applico fasten to]
Appoint v. 1 assign a job or office to. 2 (often foll. By for) fix (a time, place,
etc.). 3 (as appointed adj.) Equipped, furnished (well-appointed). appointee n.
[french à point to a point]
Apposite adj. (often foll. By to) apt, appropriate; well expressed. [latin appono
apply]
Appraise v. (-sing) 1 estimate the value or quality of. 2 set a price on (esp.
Officially). [earlier apprize, assimilated to *praise]
Approach —v. 1 come near or nearer (to) in space or time. 2 tentatively propose
to. 3 be similar or approximate to (approaching 5 million). 4 set about (a task
etc.). —n. 1 act or means of approaching. 2 approximation. 3 technique (try a
new approach). 4 golf stroke from the fairway to the green. 5 aeron. Part of a
flight before landing. [latin prope near]
Appropriate —adj. Suitable, proper. —v. (-ting) 1 take, esp. Without authority. 2
devote (money etc.) To special purposes. appropriately adv. Appropriation n.
[latin proprius own]
Approve v. (-ving) 1 confirm; sanction. 2 (often foll. By of) regard with favour.
[latin probo test]
Approximate —adj. Fairly correct, near to the actual (approximate price). —v. (-
ting) (often foll. By to) bring or come near (esp. In quality, number, etc.).
approximately adv. Approximation n. [latin proximus nearest]
Après-ski —n. Social activities following a day’s skiing. —attrib. Adj. (of
clothes, drinks, etc.) Suitable for these. [french]
Apricot —n. 1 a small juicy soft orange-yellow peachlike fruit. B tree bearing it.
2 its colour. —adj. Orange-yellow. [portuguese and spanish from arabic,
ultimately from latin praecox early-ripe]
Apricot —n. 1 a small juicy soft orange-yellow peachlike fruit. B tree bearing it.
2 its colour. —adj. Orange-yellow. [portuguese and spanish from arabic,
ultimately from latin praecox early-ripe]
ultimately from latin praecox early-ripe]
A priori —adj. 1 (of reasoning) from causes to effects; deductive. 2 (of concepts
etc.) Logically independent of experience; not derived from experience. 3
assumed without investigation (an a priori conjecture). —adv. 1 deductively. 2
as far as one knows. [latin, = from what is before]
Apron n. 1 garment for covering and protecting the front of the clothes. 2 theatr.
Part of a stage in front of the curtain. 3 area on an airfield for manoeuvring or
loading. tied to a person’s apron-strings dominated by or dependent on that
person (usu. A woman). [originally napron, from french nape tablecloth]
Apropos —adj. 1 appropriate. 2 colloq. (often foll. By of) in respect of. —adv. 1
appropriately. 2 (absol.) Incidentally. [french à propos]
Apse n. Large arched or domed recess, esp. At the end of a church. [related to
*apsis]
Apsis n. (pl. Apsides) either of two points on the orbit of a planet etc. Nearest to
or furthest from the body round which it moves. [greek (h)apsis arch, vault]
Apt adj. 1 appropriate, suitable. 2 tending (apt to break down). 3 clever; quick to
Apt adj. 1 appropriate, suitable. 2 tending (apt to break down). 3 clever; quick to
learn. [latin aptus fitted]
Aquaplane —n. Board for riding on water, pulled by a speedboat. —v. (-ning) 1
ride on this. 2 (of a vehicle) glide uncontrollably on a wet surface. [latin aqua
water, *plane1]
Aquarium n. (pl. -s) tank of water for keeping and showing fish etc. [latin
aquarius of water]
Aquarius n. (pl. -es) 1 constellation and eleventh sign of the zodiac (the water-
carrier). 2 person born when the sun is in this sign. [latin: related to *aquarium]
Aqua vitae n. Strong alcoholic spirit, esp. Brandy. [latin, = water of life]
Aqueous humour n. Clear fluid in the eye between the lens and the cornea.
Aquiline adj. 1 of or like an eagle. 2 (of a nose) curved. [latin aquila eagle]
Ar symb. Argon.
Arabesque n. 1 ballet posture with one leg extended horizontally backwards and
arms outstretched. 2 design of intertwined leaves, scrolls, etc. 3 mus. Florid
piece. [french from italian from arabo arab]
Usage in the sense ‘native of arabia’, the usual term is now arab.
Usage in the sense ‘native of arabia’, the usual term is now arab.
Arabic —n. Semitic language of the arabs. —adj. Of the arabs (esp. Their
language or literature).
Arable adj. (of land) suitable for crop production. [latin aro to plough]
Araldite n. Propr. Epoxy resin for mending china etc. [origin unknown]
Aramaic —n. Branch of the semitic family of languages, esp. The language of
syria used as a lingua franca in the near east from the sixth century bc. —adj. Of
or in aramaic. [greek aramaios of aram (hebrew name of syria)]
Arbor n. (brit. Arbour) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [latin herba
herb: assimilated to latin arbor tree]
Arbour n. (us arbor) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [latin herba herb:
assimilated to latin arbor tree]
Arcade n. 1 covered walk, esp. Lined with shops. 2 series of arches supporting or
set along a wall. [romanic: related to *arc]
Arcadian —n. Idealized country dweller. —adj. Poetically rural. [greek arkadia
in the peloponnese]
Archaean (us archean) —adj. Of the earliest geological era. —n. This time.
[greek arkhaios ancient]
Archaeopteryx n. Fossil bird with teeth, feathers, and a reptilian tail. [greek
arkhaios ancient, pterux wing]
Usage in the sense ‘native of arabia’, the usual term is now arab.
Arabic —n. Semitic language of the arabs. —adj. Of the arabs (esp. Their
language or literature).
Arable adj. (of land) suitable for crop production. [latin aro to plough]
Araldite n. Propr. Epoxy resin for mending china etc. [origin unknown]
Aramaic —n. Branch of the semitic family of languages, esp. The language of
syria used as a lingua franca in the near east from the sixth century bc. —adj. Of
or in aramaic. [greek aramaios of aram (hebrew name of syria)]
Arbor n. (brit. Arbour) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [latin herba
herb: assimilated to latin arbor tree]
Arbour n. (us arbor) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [latin herba herb:
assimilated to latin arbor tree]
Arcade n. 1 covered walk, esp. Lined with shops. 2 series of arches supporting or
set along a wall. [romanic: related to *arc]
Arcadian —n. Idealized country dweller. —adj. Poetically rural. [greek arkadia
in the peloponnese]
in the peloponnese]
Archaean (us archean) —adj. Of the earliest geological era. —n. This time.
[greek arkhaios ancient]
Archaeopteryx n. Fossil bird with teeth, feathers, and a reptilian tail. [greek
arkhaios ancient, pterux wing]
Archduke n. Hist. Chief duke (esp. As the title of a son of the emperor of
austria). archduchy n. (pl. -ies). [medieval latin archidux]
Archean (brit. Archaean) —adj. Of the earliest geological era. —n. This time.
[greek arkhaios ancient]
Archer n. 1 person who shoots with a bow and arrows. 2 (the archer) zodiacal
sign or constellation sagittarius. [latin arcus bow]
Archipelago n. (pl. -s) 1 group of islands. 2 sea with many islands. [greek arkhi-
chief, pelagos sea]
Architrave n. 1 (in classical architecture) main beam resting across the tops of
columns. 2 moulded frame around a doorway or window. [italian archi- *arch-,
latin trabs beam]
Archive —n. (usu. In pl.) 1 collection of documents or records. 2 store for these.
—v. (-ving) 1 place or store in an archive. 2 computing transfer (data) to a less
frequently used file. [greek arkheia public records]
Arctic —adj. 1 of the north polar regions. 2 (arctic) colloq. Very cold. —n.
Arctic regions. [greek arktos great bear]
Arctic circle n. Parallel of latitude 66° 33´ n, forming an imaginary line round
the arctic region.
Ardent adj. 1 eager, fervent, passionate. 2 burning. ardently adv. [latin ardeo
burn]
Are1 2nd sing. Present & 1st, 2nd, 3rd pl. Present of *be.
Are2 n. Metric unit of measure, 100 square metres. [latin: related to *area]
Arena n. 1 central part of an amphitheatre etc. 2 scene of conflict; sphere of
action. [latin, = sand]
Aren’t contr. 1 are not. 2 (in interrog.) Am not (aren’t i coming too?).
Areola n. (pl. -lae) circular pigmented area, esp. Around a nipple. areolar adj.
[latin diminutive of *area]
Argosy n. (pl. -ies) poet. Large merchant ship. [italian ragusea nave ship of
ragusa (in dalmatia)]
Argue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 (often foll. By with, about, etc.) Exchange views
forcefully or contentiously. 2 (often foll. By that) maintain by reasoning;
indicate. 3 (foll.
Argue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 (often foll. By with, about, etc.) Exchange views
forcefully or contentiously. 2 (often foll. By that) maintain by reasoning;
indicate. 3 (foll. By for, against) reason. 4 treat (a matter) by reasoning. 5 (foll.
indicate. 3 (foll. By for, against) reason. 4 treat (a matter) by reasoning. 5 (foll.
By into, out of) persuade. argue the toss colloq. Dispute a choice already made.
arguable adj. Arguably adv. [latin arguo make clear, prove]
Argus n. Watchful guardian. [greek argos mythical giant with 100 eyes]
Aries n. (pl. Same) 1 constellation and first sign of the zodiac (the ram). 2 person
born when the sun is in this sign. [latin, = ram]
Arise v. (-sing; past arose; past part. Arisen) 1 originate. 2 (usu. Foll. By from,
out of) result. 3 come to one’s notice; emerge. 4 rise, esp. From the dead or from
kneeling. [old english a-intensive prefix]
Ark n. Ship in which noah escaped the flood with his family and animals. [old
Ark n. Ship in which noah escaped the flood with his family and animals. [old
english from latin arca]
Ark of the covenant n. Chest or cupboard containing the tables of jewish law.
Arm1 n. 1 upper limb of the human body from shoulder to hand. 2 forelimb or
tentacle of an animal. 3 a sleeve of a garment. B arm support of a chair etc. C
thing branching from a main stem (an arm of the sea). D control, means of
reaching (arm of the law). arm in arm with arms linked. At arm’s length at a
distance. With open arms cordially. armful n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Arm2 —n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Weapon. 2 (in pl.) Military profession. 3 branch of the
military (e.g. Infantry, cavalry). 4 (in pl.) Heraldic devices (coat of arms). —v. 1
supply, or equip oneself, with weapons etc., esp. In preparation for war. 2 make
(a bomb etc.) Ready. take up arms go to war. Under arms equipped for war. Up
in arms (usu. Foll. By against, about) actively resisting, highly indignant. [latin
arma arms]
Armada n. Fleet of warships, esp. (armada) that sent by spain against england in
1588. [spanish from romanic]
Armadillo n. (pl. -s) s. American mammal with a plated body and large claws.
[spanish armado armed man]
Armageddon n. Huge battle or struggle, esp. Marking the end of the world. [rev.
16:16]
Armchair n. 1 chair with arm supports. 2 (attrib.) Theoretical rather than active
(armchair critic).
Armistice n. Truce, esp. Permanent. [latin arma arms, sisto make stand]
Armor (brit. Armour) —n. 1 protective usu. Metal covering formerly worn in
fighting. 2 a (in full armour-plate) protective metal covering for an armed
vehicle, ship, etc. B armed vehicles collectively. 3 protective covering or shell of
an animal or plant. 4 heraldic devices. —v. (usu. Asarmoured adj.) Provide with
protective covering, and often guns (armoured car; armoured train). [latin
armatura: related to *arm2]
Armour —n. 1 protective usu. Metal covering formerly worn in fighting. 2 a (in
full armour-plate) protective metal covering for an armed vehicle, ship, etc. B
armed vehicles collectively. 3 protective covering or shell of an animal or plant.
4 heraldic devices. —v. (usu. As armoured adj.) Provide with protective
covering, and often guns (armoured car; armoured train). [latin armatura: related
to *arm2]
Arm-wrestling n. Trial of strength in which each party tries to force the other’s
arm down.
arm down.
Army n. (pl. -ies) 1 organized armed land force. 2 (prec. By the) the military
profession. 3 (often foll. By of) very large number (army of locusts). 4 organized
civilian body (salvation army). [french: related to *arm2]
Arnica n. 1 plant of the daisy family with yellow flowers. 2 medicine prepared
from this. [origin unknown]
Aroma n. 1 esp. Pleasing smell, often of food. 2 subtle pervasive quality. [greek,
= spice]
Around —adv. 1 on every side; all round; round about. 2 colloq. A in existence;
available. B near at hand. 3 here and there (shop around). —prep. 1 on or along
the circuit of. 2 on every side of. 3 here and there in or near (chairs around the
room). 4 a round (church around the corner). B at a time near to (came around
four o’clock). have been around colloq. Be widely experienced.
Arouse v. (-sing) 1 induce (esp. An emotion). 2 awake from sleep. 3 stir into
activity. 4 stimulate sexually. arousal n. [a-intensive prefix]
Arpeggio n. (pl. -s) mus. Notes of a chord played in succession. [italian arpa
harp]
Arrack n. (also arak) alcoholic spirit, esp. Made from coco sap or rice. [arabic]
Arraign v. 1 indict, accuse. 2 find fault with; call into question (an action or
statement). arraignment n. [latin ratio reason]
Arrange v. (-ging) 1 put into order; classify. 2 plan or provide for; take measures
(arranged a meeting; arrange to see him; arranged for a taxi). 3 agree (arranged it
with her). 4 mus. Adapt (a composition) for a particular manner of performance.
[french: related to *range]
Arrant adj. Literary downright, utter (arrant liar). [var. Of *errant, originally in
arrant (= outlawed, roving) thief etc.]
Arrears n.pl. Amount (esp. Of work, rent, etc.) Still outstanding or uncompleted.
in arrears behind, esp. In payment. [medieval latin adretro behindhand]
Arrest —v. 1 lawfully seize (a suspect etc.). 2 stop or check the progress of. 3
attract (a person’s attention). —n. 1 arresting or being arrested. 2 stoppage
(cardiac arrest). [latin resto remain]
Arris n. Archit. Sharp edge at the junction of two surfaces. [french areste, =
*arête]
Arrival n. 1 arriving; appearance on the scene. 2 person or thing that has arrived.
Arrive v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. By at, in) reach a destination. 2 (foll. By at) reach
(a conclusion etc.). 3 colloq. Become successful. 4 colloq. (of a child) be born. 5
(of a time) come. [latin ripa shore]
Arrogate v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By to oneself) claim (power etc.) Without right.
2 (often foll. By to) attribute unjustly (to a person). arrogation n. [latin rogo ask]
Arrow n. 1 pointed slender missile shot from a bow. 2 representation of this, esp.
Indicating direction. [old english]
Arsenal n. 1 store, esp. Of weapons. 2 place for the storage and manufacture of
weapons and ammunition. [arabic, = workshop]
Arsenic —n. 1 non-scientific name for arsenic trioxide, a highly poisonous white
powder used in weed-killers etc. 2 chem. Brittle semi-metallic element. —adj.
Of or containing arsenic. [french, ultimately from persian zar gold]
Art n. 1 a human creative skill or its application. B work showing this. 2 a (in
pl.; prec. By the) branches of creative activity concerned with the production of
imaginative designs, sounds, or ideas, e.g. Painting, music, writing. B any one of
these. 3 creative activity resulting in visual representation (good at music but not
art). 4 human skill as opposed to nature (art and nature combined). 5 (often foll.
By of) a skill, knack. B cunning; trick, stratagem. 6 (in pl.; usu. Prec. By the)
supposedly creative subjects (esp. Languages, literature, and history) as opposed
to scientific, technical, or vocational subjects. [latin ars art-]
Art deco n. Decorative art style of 1910–30, with geometric motifs and strong
colours.
Artery n. (pl. -ies) 1 any of the blood-vessels carrying blood from the heart. 2
main road or railway line. [greek, probably from airo raise]
Artesian well n. Well in which water rises to the surface by natural pressure
through a vertically drilled hole. [artois, old french province]
Artichoke n. 1 plant allied to the thistle. 2 (in full globe artichoke) its partly
edible flower-head (see also *jerusalem artichoke). [italian from arabic]
Articulate —adj. 1 fluent and clear in speech. 2 (of sound or speech) having
clearly distinguishable parts. 3 having joints. —v. (-ting) 1 a pronounce
distinctly. B speak or express clearly. 2 (usu. In passive) connect by joints. 3
mark with apparent joints. 4 (often foll. By with) form a joint. articulately adv.
Artifice n. 1 trick or clever device. 2 cunning. 3 skill, ingenuity. [latin ars art-art,
facio make]
Artificial adj. 1 not natural (artificial lake). 2 imitating nature (artificial flowers).
3 affected, insincere. artificiality n. Artificially adv. [latin: related to *artifice]
Artillery n. (pl. -ies) 1 heavy guns used in land warfare. 2 branch of the army
using these. artilleryman n. [french artiller equip]
Artisan n. Skilled manual worker or craftsman. [latin artio instruct in the arts]
Artist n. 1 practitioner of any of the arts, esp. Painting. 2 artiste. 3 person using
skill or taste. artistry n. [french artiste from italian]
Artistic adj. 1 having natural skill in art. 2 skilfully or tastefully done. 3 of art or
artists. artistically adv.
Art nouveau n. Art style of the late 19th century, with flowing lines.
Artwork n. 1 illustrative material in printed matter. 2 works of art collectively
(exhibition of children’s artwork).
-ary suffix forming adjectives (contrary; primary). [french -aire, latin -ari(u)s]
As symb. Arsenic.
As1 —adv. & conj. (adv. As antecedent in main sentence; conj. In relative
clause expressed or implied) to the extent to which … is or does etc. (am as tall
as he; am as tall as he is; (colloq.) Am as tall as him; as recently as last week).
—conj. (with relative clause expressed or implied) 1 (with antecedent so)
expressing result or purpose (came early so as to meet us). 2 (with antecedent
adverb omitted) although (good as it is = although it is good). 3 (without
antecedent adverb) a in the manner in which (do as you like; rose as one man). B
in the capacity or form of (i speak as your friend; olivier as hamlet). C while
(arrived as i was eating). D since, seeing that (as you are here, we can talk). E for
instance (cathedral cities, as york). —rel. Pron.
Asafetida n. (brit. Asafoetida) resinous pungent plant gum used in cooking and
Asafetida n. (brit. Asafoetida) resinous pungent plant gum used in cooking and
formerly in medicine. [persian aza mastic: related to *fetid]
Asafoetida n. (us asafetida) resinous pungent plant gum used in cooking and
formerly in medicine. [persian aza mastic: related to *fetid]
Ascend v. 1 move or slope upwards, rise. 2 climb; go up. ascend the throne
become king or queen. [latin scando climb]
Ascendant —adj. 1 rising. 2 astron. Rising towards the zenith. 3 astrol. Just
above the eastern horizon. 4 predominant. —n. Astrol. Ascendant point of the
sun’s apparent path. in the ascendant gaining or having power or authority.
Ascertain v. Find out for certain. ascertainment n. [french: related to *certain]
Ascribe v. (-bing) (usu. Foll. By to) 1 attribute (ascribes his health to exercise). 2
regard as belonging. ascription n. [latin scribo write]
Asexual adj. 1 without sex, sexual organs, or sexuality. 2 (of reproduction) not
involving the fusion of gametes. asexually adv.
Ash1 n. 1 (often in pl.) Powdery residue left after burning. 2 (pl.) Human
remains after cremation. 3 (the ashes) cricket trophy competed for by australia
and england. [old english]
Ash2 n. 1 tree with silver-grey bark. 2 its hard, pale wood. [old english]
Ashamed adj. (usu. Predic.) 1 embarrassed by shame (ashamed of myself). 2
(foll. By to + infin.) Hesitant, reluctant out of shame (am ashamed to say). [old
english a-intensive prefix]
Ashcan n. Us dustbin.
Ashcan n. Us dustbin.
Asian —n. 1 native of asia. 2 person of asian descent. —adj. Of asia. [latin from
Asian —n. 1 native of asia. 2 person of asian descent. —adj. Of asia. [latin from
greek]
Aside —adv. To or on one side; away, apart. —n. Words spoken aside, esp.
Confidentially to the audience by an actor.
Asinine adj. Like an ass, esp. Stupid or stubborn. asininity n. [latin asinus ass]
Ask v. 1 call for an answer to or about (ask her about it; ask him his name). 2
seek to obtain from someone (ask a favour of). 3 (usu. Foll. By out, in, or over,
or to (a function etc.)) Invite (must ask them over; asked her to dinner). 4 (foll.
By for) seek to obtain, meet, or be directed to (ask for help; asking for you; ask
for the bar). ask after inquire about (esp. A person). Ask for it slang invite
trouble. [old english]
Asleep predic. Adj. & adv. 1 a in or into a state of sleep. B inactive, inattentive.
2 (of a limb etc.) Numb. 3 euphem. Dead.
2 (of a limb etc.) Numb. 3 euphem. Dead.
Asp n. Small venomous snake of north africa or southern europe. [greek aspis]
Asparagus n. 1 plant of the lily family. 2 edible shoots of this. [latin from greek]
Aspen n. Poplar with very tremulous leaves. [old english: originally adj.]
Asphalt —n. 1 dark bituminous pitch. 2 mixture of this with sand, gravel, etc.,
for surfacing roads etc. —v. Surface with asphalt. [latin from greek]
Aspic n. Savoury jelly used esp. To contain game, eggs, etc. [french, = *asp,
suggested by the colours of the jelly]
Aspirant —adj. Aspiring. —n. Person who aspires. [latin: related to *aspire]
Aspirate —adj. Pronounced with an exhalation of breath; blended with the sound
of h. —n. Sound of h; consonant pronounced in this way. —v. (-ting) 1
pronounce with breath or with initial h. 2 draw (fluid) by suction from a cavity
etc.
Aspirin n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 white powder, acetylsalicylic acid, used to reduce
pain and fever. 2 tablet of this. [german]
Assay —n. Testing of a metal or ore to determine its ingredients and quality. —
v. Make an assay of (a metal or ore). [french, var. Of essai *essay]
Assegai n. (also assagai) light iron-tipped s. African spear. [arabic, = the spear]
Assent —v. (usu. Foll. By to) 1 express agreement. 2 consent. —n. Consent or
approval, esp. Official. assenter n. [latin sentio think]
Assert v. 1 declare, state clearly. 2 refl. Insist on one’s rights. 3 enforce a claim
to (assert one’s rights). [latin assero -sert-]
Assess v. 1 estimate the size or quality of. 2 estimate the value of (property etc.)
For taxation. assessment n. [latin assideo -sess-sit by]
Assessor n. 1 person who assesses (esp. For tax or insurance). 2 legal adviser on
technical questions.
Asset-stripping n. The taking over of a company and selling off of its assets to
make a profit.
Assist v. (often foll. By in + verbal noun) help. assistance n. [latin assisto stand
by]
Assizes n.pl. Hist. Court periodically administering the civil and criminal law.
[french: related to *assess]
Usage in 1972 the civil jurisdiction of assizes in england and wales was
transferred to the high court and the criminal jurisdiction to the crown court.
Associate —v. (-ting) 1 connect mentally (associate holly with christmas). 2 join
or combine, esp. For a common purpose. 3 refl. Declare oneself or be in
agreement. 4 (usu. Foll. By with) meet frequently or deal. —n. 1 partner,
colleague. 2 friend, companion. 3 subordinate member of a society etc. —adj. 1
joined or allied. 2 of lower status (associate member). associative adj. [latin
socius allied]
Association football n. Football played with a round ball which may not be
handled except by the goalkeepers.
Ast abbr. Atlantic standard time.
Asterisk —n. Symbol (*) used to mark words or to indicate omission etc. —v.
Mark with an asterisk. [greek, = little star]
Asteroid n. 1 any of the minor planets orbiting the sun, mainly between the
orbits of mars and jupiter. 2 starfish. [greek: related to *aster]
Astrakhan n. 1 dark curly fleece of young astrakhan lambs. 2 cloth imitating this.
[astrakhan in russia]
Astray adv. & predic.adj. Out of the right way, erring. go astray be missing.
[latin extra away, vagor wander]
Astride —adv. 1 (often foll. By of) with a leg on each side. 2 with legs apart. —
prep. Astride of; extending across.
Astrolabe n. Instrument formerly used to measure the altitude of stars etc.
[greek, = star-taking]
Astrophysics n.pl. (treated as sing.) The study of the physics and chemistry of
celestial bodies. astrophysical adj. Astrophysicist n. [greek astron star]
Asylum n. 1 sanctuary; protection, esp. For fugitives from the law (seek asylum).
2 hist. Institution for the mentally ill or destitute. [greek a-not, sulon right of
seizure]
At symb. Astatine.
-ate2 suffix forming adjectives with the sense ‘having, full of’ (foliate;
passionate). [latin participial ending -atus]
Atheism n. Belief that there is no god. atheist n. Atheistic adj. [greek a-not, theos
god]
Athlete n. Person who engages in athletics, exercise, etc. [greek athlon prize]
Athletics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Physical exercises, esp. Track and field
Athletics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Physical exercises, esp. Track and field
events.
Atlantic adj. Of or adjoining the ocean between europe and africa to the east and
america to the west. [greek: related to *atlas]
Atlas n. Book of maps or charts. [greek atlas, the titan who held up the universe]
Atmosphere n. 1 a gases enveloping the earth, any other planet, etc. B air in a
room etc., esp. If fetid. 2 pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of
art. 3 unit of pressure equal to mean atmospheric pressure at sea level, 101,325
pascals. atmospheric adj. [greek atmos vapour, *sphere]
Atomic mass unit n. Unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights,
equal to one-twelfth of the mass of an atom of carbon-12.
Atone v. (-ning) (usu. Foll. By for) make amends (for a wrong). [from
*atonement]
Atrocity n. (pl. -ies) 1 wicked or cruel act. 2 extreme wickedness. [latin: related
to *atrocious]
Atrophy —n. Wasting away, esp. Through disuse; emaciation. —v. (-ies, -ied)
suffer atrophy or cause atrophy in. [greek a-without, trophe food]
Attach v. 1 fasten, affix, join. 2 (in passive; foll. By to) be very fond of. 3
attribute or be attributable; assign (can’t attach a name to it; no blame attaches to
us). 4 accompany; form part of (no conditions are attached). 5 refl. (usu. Foll. By
to) take part in; join (attached himself to the team). 6 seize by legal authority.
[french from germanic]
Attack —v. 1 try to hurt or defeat using force. 2 criticize adversely. 3 act
harmfully upon (rust attacks metal). 4 vigorously apply oneself to. 5 sport try to
gain ground or score (against). —n. 1 act of attacking. 2 offensive operation. 3
sudden onset of an illness. attacker n. [french from italian]
Attain v. 1 reach, gain, accomplish (a goal etc.). 2 (foll. By to) arrive at by effort
or development. [latin attingo reach]
or development. [latin attingo reach]
Attest v. 1 certify the validity of. 2 (foll. By to) bear witness to. attestation n.
[latin testis witness]
Attic —adj. Of ancient athens or attica, or the form of greek used there. —n.
Greek as used by the ancient athenians. [greek attikos]
Attic n. Space or room at the top of a house, usu. Under the roof. [from *attic,
with ref. To an architectural feature]
Attire formal —n. Clothes, esp. Formal. —v. (-ring) (usu. As attired adj.) Dress,
esp. Formally. [french à tire in order]
Attitude n. 1 opinion or way of thinking; behaviour reflecting this (don’t like his
attitude). 2 bodily posture; pose. 3 position of an aircraft etc. Relative to given
points. [latin aptus fitted]
Attitudinize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) adopt (esp. Affected) attitudes; pose.
Attitudinize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) adopt (esp. Affected) attitudes; pose.
Attorney n. (pl. -s) 1 lawyer etc. Appointed to act for another in business or legal
matters. 2 us qualified lawyer. [french atorner assign]
Attract v. 1 (also absol.) (of a magnet etc.) Draw to itself or oneself. 2 arouse
interest or admiration in. [latin traho draw]
Attribute —v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By to) 1 regard as belonging to, written or said
by, etc. (a poem attributed to milton). 2 ascribe to (a cause) (delays attributed to
snow). —n. 1 esp. Characteristic quality ascribed to a person or thing. 2 object
symbolizing or appropriate to a person, office, or status. attributable adj.
Attribution n. [latin tribuo allot]
Attributive adj. Gram. (of an adjective or noun) preceding the word described, as
old in the old dog.
Attrition n. 1 gradual wearing down (war of attrition). 2 abrasion, friction. [latin
tero trit-rub]
Attune v. (-ning) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) adjust to a situation etc. 2 mus. Tune.
[related to *tune]
Auction —n. Sale in which articles are sold to the highest bidder. —v. Sell by
auction. [latin augeo auct-increase]
Auction bridge n. Game in which players bid for the right to name trumps.
Auctioneer n. Person who conducts auctions, esp. For a living.
Audible adj. Able to be heard. audibility n. Audibly adv. [latin audio hear]
Audiotape n. (also audio tape) 1 a magnetic tape for recording sound. B a length
of this. 2 a sound recording on tape.
Audiotape n. (also audio tape) 1 a magnetic tape for recording sound. B a length
of this. 2 a sound recording on tape.
Audiovisual adj. (of teaching methods etc.) Using both sight and sound.
Audit —n. Official scrutiny of accounts. —v. (-t-) conduct an audit of.
Auditorium n. (pl. -s) part of a theatre etc. For the audience. [latin]
Au fait predic. Adj. (usu. Foll. By with) conversant (au fait with the rules).
[french]
Augean adj. Filthy. [greek augeas, a mythical king: his filthy stables were
cleaned by hercules diverting a river through them]
Auger n. Tool with a screw point for boring in wood. [old english]
Augur —v. Portend, serve as an omen (augur well or ill). —n. Hist. Roman
religious official interpreting natural phenomena in order to pronounce on
proposed actions. [latin]
August n. Eighth month of the year. [latin augustus, first roman emperor]
Auk n. Black and white sea bird with short wings, e.g. The guillemot, puffin, etc.
[old norse]
Auld lang syne n. Times long past. [scots, = old long since]
Aunt sally n. 1 game in which sticks or balls are thrown at a wooden dummy. 2
target of general abuse.
Aural adj. Of the ear or hearing. aurally adv. [latin auris ear]
Auricle n. 1 each atrium of the heart. 2 external ear of animals. auricular adj.
[related to *auricula]
Auricula n. (pl. -s) primula with ear-shaped leaves. [latin, diminutive of auris
ear]
Auscultation n. Listening, esp. To sounds from the heart, lungs, etc., for
purposes of diagnosis. [latin ausculto listen]
Auspice n. 1 (in pl.) Patronage (esp. Under the auspices of). 2 omen,
premonition. [originally ‘observation of bird-flight’: latin avis bird]
Auspicious adj. Promising well; favourable.
Austere adj. (-terer, -terest) 1 severely simple. 2 morally strict. 3 stern, grim.
[greek austeros]
Autocue n. Propr. Screen etc. From which a speaker reads a television script.
Autograph —n. Signature, esp. That of a celebrity. —v. Sign or write on in one’s
own hand. [greek grapho write]
Automation n. 1 use of automatic equipment in place of manual labour. 2
production of goods etc. By this.
Autoroute n. French motorway. [french]
Auxiliary —adj. 1 subsidiary, additional. 2 giving help. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 auxiliary
person or thing. 2 (in pl.) Foreign or allied troops in the service of a nation at
war. 3 verb used to form tenses or moods of other verbs (e.g. Have in i have
seen). [latin auxilium help]
Avail —v. 1 help; be of use. 2 refl. (foll. By of) make use of, profit by. —n. Use,
profit (of no avail). [latin valeo be strong]
Avarice n. Extreme greed for wealth. avaricious adj. [latin avarus greedy]
Avatar n. (in hindu mythology) descent of a deity etc. To earth in bodily form.
[sanskrit, = descent]
Ave n. (in full ave maria) prayer to the virgin mary (luke 1:28). [latin]
Avenge v. (-ging) 1 inflict retribution on behalf of. 2 take vengeance for (an
injury). be avenged avenge oneself. [latin vindico]
Aver v. (-rr-) formal assert, affirm. averment n. [latin verus true]
Average —n. 1 usual amount, extent, or rate. 2 amount obtained by adding two
or more numbers and dividing by how many there are. 3 (with ref. To speed etc.)
Ratio obtained by subtracting the inital from the final value of each element of
the ratio (average of 50 miles per hour). 4 law damage to or loss of a ship or
cargo. —adj. 1 a usual, ordinary. B mediocre. 2 constituting an average (the
average age is 72). —v. (-ging) 1 amount on average to. 2 do on average. 3
estimate the average of. average out (at) result in an average (of). Law of
averages principle that if one of two extremes occurs the other will also. On (or
on an) average as an average rate or estimate. [arabic, = damaged goods]
Averse predic. Adj. (usu. Foll. By to) opposed, disinclined. [latin verto vers-
turn]
Avert v. (often foll. By from) 1 turn away (one’s eyes or thoughts). 2 prevent or
ward off (esp. Danger).
Aviary n. (pl. -ies) large cage or building for keeping birds. [latin avis bird]
Avid adj. Eager, greedy. avidity n. Avidly adv. [latin aveo crave]
Avocado n. (pl. -s) 1 (in full avocado pear) dark green edible pear-shaped fruit
with yellowish-green creamy flesh. 2 tree bearing it. [spanish from aztec]
Avoid v. 1 keep away or refrain from. 2 escape; evade. 3 law quash, annul.
avoidable adj. Avoidance n. [french]
Avow v. Formal declare, confess. avowal n. Avowedly adv. [latin voco call]
Avuncular adj. Like or of an uncle, esp. In manner. [latin avunculus uncle]
Awake —v. (-king; past awoke; past part. Awoken) 1 cease to sleep or arouse
from sleep. 2 (often foll. By to) become or make alert, aware, or active. —
predic. Adj. 1 not asleep. 2 (often foll. By to) alert, aware. [old english: related
to *a2]
Awaken v. = *awake v.
Usage awake and awaken are interchangeable but awaken is much rarer than
awake as an intransitive verb.
Awash predic. Adj. 1 level with the surface of, and just covered by, water. 2
(foll. By with) overflowing, abounding.
Awe —n. Reverential fear or wonder. —v. (awing) inspire with awe. [old norse]
Awful adj. 1 colloq. Very bad or unpleasant (has awful writing; awful weather).
2 (attrib.) As an intensifier (awful lot of money). 3 poet. Inspiring awe.
Awl n. Small tool for piercing holes, esp. In leather. [old english]
Awn n. Bristly head of a sheath of barley and other grasses. [old norse]
Awning n. Sheet of canvas etc. Stretched on a frame as a shelter against the sun
or rain. [origin uncertain]
Ax (brit. Axe) —n. 1 chopping-tool with a handle and heavy blade. 2 (the ax)
dismissal (of employees); abandonment of a project etc. —v. (axing) cut (esp.
Costs or staff) drastically; abandon (a project). an ax to grind private ends to
serve. [old english]
Axe (us ax) —n. 1 chopping-tool with a handle and heavy blade. 2 (the axe)
dismissal (of employees); abandonment of a project etc. —v. (axing) cut (esp.
Costs or staff) drastically; abandon (a project). an axe to grind private ends to
serve. [old english]
Axil n. Upper angle between a leaf and stem. [latin axilla armpit]
Axis n. (pl. Axes) 1 a imaginary line about which a body rotates. B line which
divides a regular figure symmetrically. 2 fixed reference line for the
measurement of coordinates etc. 3 (the axis) alliance of germany, italy, and later
japan, in the war of 1939–45. [latin, = axle]
Axis n. (pl. Axes) 1 a imaginary line about which a body rotates. B line which
divides a regular figure symmetrically. 2 fixed reference line for the
measurement of coordinates etc. 3 (the axis) alliance of germany, italy, and later
japan, in the war of 1939–45. [latin, = axle]
Ayatollah n. Shiite religious leader in iran. [persian from arabic, = token of god]
Ayatollah n. Shiite religious leader in iran. [persian from arabic, = token of god]
Aye —adv. Archaic or dial. Yes. —n. Affirmative answer or vote. [probably
from i, expressing assent]
Azimuth n. Angular distance from a north or south point of the horizon to the
intersection with the horizon of a vertical circle passing through a given celestial
body. azimuthal adj. [french from arabic]
Azt abbr. Drug intended for use against the aids virus. [from the chemical name]
Aztec —n. 1 member of the native mexican people overthrown by the spanish in
1519. 2 language of this people. —adj. Of the aztecs or their language. [nahuatl,
= men of the north]
Azure —n. 1 deep sky-blue colour. 2 poet. Clear sky. —adj. Deep sky-blue.
[arabic]
B1 n. (pl. Bs or b’s) 1 (also b) second letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Seventh note
of the diatonic scale of c major. 3 second hypothetical person or example. 4
second highest category (of roads, academic marks, etc.). 5 (usu. B) algebra
second known quantity.
B2 symb. Boron.
Ba symb. Barium.
Baa —v. (baas, baaed or baa’d) bleat. —n. Sheep’s cry. [imitative]
Babe n. 1 literary baby. 2 innocent or helpless person. 3 us slang young woman.
[as *baby]
Baby —n. (pl. -ies) 1 very young child. 2 childish person. 3 youngest member of
a family etc. 4 (often attrib.) A very young animal. B small specimen. 5 slang
sweetheart. 6 one’s special concern etc. —v. (-ies, -ied) treat like a baby;
pamper. babyhood n. Babyish adj. [imitative of child’s ba ba]
Babysit v. (-tt-; past and past part. -sat) look after a child while its parents are
out. babysitter n.
Back —n. 1 a rear surface of the human body from shoulder to hip. B upper
surface of an animal’s body. C spine (broke his back). D keel of a ship. 2
backlike surface (back of the head, chair, shirt). 3 reverse or more distant part
(back of the room; sat in the back; write it on the back). 4 defensive player in
football etc. —adv. 1 to the rear (go back a bit; looked back). 2 in or into a
previous state, place, or time (came back; put it back; back in june). 3 at a
distance (stand back). 4 in return (pay back). 5 in check (hold him back). —v. 1
a give moral or financial support to. B bet on (a horse etc.). 2 (often foll. By up)
move backwards. 3 a put or serve as a back, background, or support to. B mus.
Accompany. 4 lie at the back of (beach backed by cliffs). 5 (of the wind) move
anticlockwise. —adj. 1 situated to the rear; remote, subsidiary (back teeth). 2
past; not current (back pay; back issue). 3 reversed (back flow). back and forth to
and fro. Back down withdraw from confrontation. The back of beyond very
remote place. Back off 1 draw back, retreat. 2 = back down. Back on to have its
back adjoining (backs on to a field). Back out (often foll. By of) withdraw from
a commitment. Back-pedal reverse one’s action or opinion. Back to back with
backs adjacent and facing each other (stood back to back). Back up 1 give (esp.
Moral) support to. 2 computing make a backup of (data, a disk, etc.). Get (or put)
a person’s back up annoy a person. Get off a person’s back stop troubling a
person. Turn one’s back on abandon; ignore. backer n. (in sense 1 of v.).
Backless adj. [old english]
Back-crawl n. = *backstroke.
Backdate v. (-ting) 1 make retrospectively valid. 2 put an earlier date to than the
actual one.
Backdrop n. = *backcloth.
Backfire v. (-ring) 1 (of an engine or vehicle) ignite or explode too early in the
cylinder or exhaust. 2 (of a plan etc.) Rebound adversely on its originator.
Backhand —attrib. Adj. (of a stroke) made with the hand across one’s body. —
n. Such a stroke.
Backhanded adj. 1 made with the back of the hand. 2 indirect; ambiguous
(backhanded compliment).
Back room n. (often, with hyphen, attrib.) Place where secret work is done.
Backslide v. (-ding; past -slid; past part. -slid or -slidden) return to bad habits
etc.
Backspace v. (-cing) move a typewriter carriage etc. Back one or more spaces.
Backstairs —n.pl. Rear or side stairs of a building. —attrib. Adj. (also backstair)
underhand; secret.
Backstitch n. Sewing with each stitch starting behind the end of the previous
one.
Back-stop n. 1 cricket etc. A position directly behind the wicket-keeper. B
fielder in this position. 2 last resort.
Backwards adv. 1 away from one’s front (lean backwards). 2 a with the back
Backwards adv. 1 away from one’s front (lean backwards). 2 a with the back
foremost (walk backwards). B in reverse of the usual way (count backwards). 3 a
into a worse state. B into the past. C (of motion) back towards the starting-point
(roll backwards). backwards and forwards to and fro. Bend (or fall or lean) over
backwards colloq. Make every effort, esp. To be fair or helpful.
Bacon n. Cured meat from the back or sides of a pig. [french from germanic]
Bad —adj. (worse, worst) 1 inadequate, defective (bad work, light). 2 unpleasant
(bad weather). 3 harmful (is bad for you). 4 (of food) decayed. 5 colloq. Ill,
injured (feeling bad today; a bad leg). 6 colloq. Regretful, guilty (feels bad about
it). 7 serious, severe (a bad headache, mistake). 8 a morally unacceptable (bad
man; bad language). B naughty. 9 not valid (a bad cheque). 10 (badder, baddest)
man; bad language). B naughty. 9 not valid (a bad cheque). 10 (badder, baddest)
esp. Us slang excellent. —n. Ill fortune; ruin. —adv. Us colloq. Badly. not (or
not so) bad colloq. Fairly good. Too bad colloq. Regrettable. [old english]
Badger —n. Nocturnal burrowing mammal with a black and white striped head.
—v. Pester, harass. [origin uncertain]
Badly adv. (worse, worst) 1 in a bad manner. 2 colloq. Very much (wants it
badly). 3 severely (badly defeated).
Baffle —v. (-ling) 1 perplex. 2 frustrate, hinder. —n. Device that checks flow
esp. Of fluid or sound waves. bafflement n. [origin uncertain]
Bagatelle n. 1 game in which small balls are struck into holes on a board. 2 mere
trifle. 3 short piece of esp. Piano music. [french from italian]
Bail1 —n. 1 money etc. Pledged against the temporary release of an untried
prisoner. 2 person(s) giving this. —v. (usu. Foll. By out) 1 release or secure the
release of (a prisoner) on payment of bail. 2 release from a difficulty; rescue. on
bail released after payment of bail. [latin bajulus carrier]
Bail2 n. 1 cricket either of two crosspieces bridging the stumps. 2 bar holding
the paper against a typewriter platen. 3 bar separating horses in an open stable.
[french]
Bail3 v. (also bale) 1 (usu. Foll. By out) scoop water out of (a boat etc.). 2 scoop
(water etc.) Out. bail out var. Of bale out 1 (see *bale1). [french]
Bail2 n. 1 cricket either of two crosspieces bridging the stumps. 2 bar holding
the paper against a typewriter platen. 3 bar separating horses in an open stable.
[french]
Bail3 v. (also bale) 1 (usu. Foll. By out) scoop water out of (a boat etc.). 2 scoop
(water etc.) Out. bail out var. Of bale out 1 (see *bale1). [french]
Bailey n. (pl. -s) 1 outer wall of a castle. 2 court enclosed by it. [french: related
to *bail2]
Bailey bridge n. Prefabricated military bridge for rapid assembly. [sir d. Bailey,
name of its designer]
name of its designer]
Bailiff n. 1 sheriff’s officer who executes writs and carries out distraints. 2
landlord’s agent or steward. [french: related to *bail1]
Bain-marie n. (pl. Bains-marie pronunc. Same) pan of hot water holding a pan
containing sauce etc. For slow heating. [french, translation of medieval latin
balneum mariae bath of maria (a supposed alchemist)]
Bait —n. 1 food used to entice prey. 2 allurement. —v. 1 harass, torment, or
annoy (a person or chained animal). 2 put bait on (a hook, trap, etc.). [old norse]
Baize n. Usu. Green woollen felted material, used for coverings. [french pl.
Baies chestnut-coloured]
Bake v. (-king) 1 cook or become cooked by dry heat, esp. In an oven. 2 colloq.
(usu. As be baking) (of weather, a person, etc.) Be very hot. 3 harden by heat.
[old english]
Baked beans n.pl. Baked haricot beans, usu. Tinned in tomato sauce.
Bakelite n. Propr. Plastic made from formaldehyde and phenol, used formerly
for buttons, plates, etc. [german from baekeland, name of its inventor]
Baker n. Person who bakes and sells bread, cakes, etc., esp. For a living.
Baker day n. Colloq. Day set aside for in-service training of teachers. [baker,
name of the education secretary responsible for introducing them]
Bakery n. (pl. -ies) place where bread and cakes are made or sold.
Bakewell tart n. Open pastry case lined with jam and filled with almond paste.
[bakewell in derbyshire]
Baksheesh n. Gratuity, tip. [persian]
Balaclava n. (in full balaclava helmet) usu. Woollen covering for the whole head
and neck, except for the face. [balaclava in the crimea, the site of a battle in
1854]
Balance of power n. 1 situation of roughly equal power among the chief states of
the world. 2 power held by a small group when larger groups are of equal
strength.
Bald adj. 1 lacking some or all hair on the scalp. 2 lacking the usual hair,
feathers, leaves, etc. 3 colloq. With a worn surface (bald tyre). 4 plain, direct
(bald statement, style). balding adj. (in senses 1–3). Baldly adv. (in sense 4).
Baldness n. [old english]
Bale1 —n. Tightly bound bundle of merchandise or hay. —v. (-ling) make up
into bales. bale out 1 (also bail out) (of an airman) make an emergency parachute
descent. 2 var. Of *bail1 v. 2. [dutch: related to *ball1]
Balk var. Of *baulk.
Balkan adj. 1 of the region of se europe bounded by the adriatic, aegean, and
black sea. 2 of its peoples or countries. [turkish]
Ball1 —n. 1 sphere, esp. For use in a game. 2 a ball-shaped object; material in
the shape of a ball (ball of snow, wool). B rounded part of the body (ball of the
foot). 3 cannon-ball. 4 single delivery or pass of a ball in cricket, baseball,
football, etc. 5 (in pl.) Coarse slang a testicles. B (usu. As int.) Nonsense. C =
*balls-up. D courage, ‘guts’. —v. Form into a ball. balls up coarse slang bungle;
make a mess of. On the ball colloq. Alert. [old norse]
Ball2 n. 1 formal social gathering for dancing. 2 slang enjoyable time (esp. Have
a ball). [greek ballo throw]
Ballast —n. 1 heavy material stabilizing a ship, the car of a balloon, etc. 2 coarse
stone etc. As the bed of a railway track or road. 3 mixture of coarse and fine
aggregate for making concrete. —v. Provide with ballast. [low german or
scandinavian]
Ballboy n. (fem. Ballgirl) (in tennis) boy or girl who retrieves balls.
Ballcock n. Floating ball on a hinged arm controlling the water level in a cistern.
Ball game n. 1 a game played with a ball. B us baseball game. 2 esp. Us colloq.
Affair; matter (a whole new ball game).
Ballista n. (pl. -stae) (in ancient warfare) catapult for hurling large stones etc.
[latin from greek ballo throw]
Ballistic missile n. Missile that is powered and guided but falls by gravity.
Balloon —n. 1 small inflatable rubber toy or decoration. 2 large usu. Round
inflatable flying bag, often carrying a basket for passengers. 3 colloq. Balloon
shape enclosing dialogue etc. In a comic strip or cartoon. —v. 1 (cause to) swell
out like a balloon. 2 travel by balloon. balloonist n. [french or italian, = large
ball]
Ballot —n. 1 occasion or system of voting, in writing and usu. Secret. 2 total of
such votes. 3 paper etc. Used in voting. —v. (-t-) 1 (usu. Foll. By for) a hold a
ballot; give a vote. B draw lots for precedence etc. 2 take a ballot of (balloted the
members). [italian ballotta: related to *balloon]
Ballot-paper n. = *ballot n. 3.
Ball-point n. (in full ball-point pen) pen with a tiny ball as its writing point.
Bally adj. & adv. Slang mild form of bloody (see *bloody adj. 3). [alteration of
*bloody]
Balm n. 1 aromatic ointment. 2 fragrant oil or resin exuded from certain trees
and plants. 3 thing that heals or soothes. 4 aromatic herb. [latin: related to
*balsam]
Balmy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 mild and fragrant; soothing. 2 slang = *barmy. balmily
adv. Balminess n.
Balsa n. 1 (in full balsa-wood) tough lightweight wood used for making models
etc. 2 tropical american tree yielding it. [spanish, = raft]
Balsam n. 1 resin exuded from various trees and shrubs. 2 ointment, esp.
Containing oil or turpentine. 3 tree or shrub yielding balsam. 4 any of several
flowering plants. balsamic adj. [latin balsamum]
Bamboo n. 1 tropical giant woody grass. 2 its stem, used for canes, furniture, etc.
[dutch from malay]
Ban —v. (-nn-) forbid, prohibit, esp. Formally. —n. Formal prohibition (ban on
smoking). [old english, = summon]
Banal adj. Trite, commonplace. banality n. (pl. -ies). Banally adv. [french,
related to *ban: originally = compulsory, hence = common]
Banana n. 1 long curved soft fruit with a yellow skin. 2 treelike plant bearing it.
go bananas slang go mad. [portuguese or spanish, from an african name]
Band —n. 1 flat, thin strip or loop of paper, metal, cloth, etc., put round
something esp. To hold or decorate it. 2 a strip of material on a garment. B
stripe. 3 group of esp. Non-classical musicians. 4 organized group of criminals
etc. 5 range of frequencies, wavelengths, or values. 6 belt connecting wheels or
pulleys. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By together) unite. 2 put a band on. 3 mark with
stripes. [old norse (related to *bind) and french]
Bandage —n. Strip of material used to bind a wound etc. —v. (-ging) bind with
a bandage. [french: related to *band]
Bandbox n. Hatbox.
Bandeau n. (pl. -x) narrow headband. [french]
Banderole n. 1 long narrow flag with a cleft end. 2 ribbon-like inscribed scroll.
[italian: related to *banner]
Bandit n. Robber or outlaw, esp. One attacking travellers etc. banditry n. [italian]
Bandog n. Fighting-dog bred for its strength and ferocity. [from band, dog]
Bandolier n. (also bandoleer) shoulder belt with loops or pockets for cartridges.
[dutch or french]
Bandy1 adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of the legs) curved so as to be wide apart at the knees.
2 (also bandy-legged) having bandy legs. [perhaps from obsolete bandy curved
stick]
Bandy2 v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By about) a pass (a story, rumour, etc.) To
and fro. B discuss disparagingly (bandied her name about). 2 (often foll. By
with) exchange (blows, insults, etc.). [perhaps from french]
Bang —n. 1 loud short sound. 2 sharp blow. 3 coarse slang act of sexual
intercourse. 4 us fringe cut straight across the forehead. —v. 1 strike or shut
noisily (banged the door). 2 (cause to) make a bang. 3 coarse slang have sexual
intercourse (with). —adv. 1 with a bang. 2 colloq. Exactly (bang in the middle).
bang on colloq. Exactly right. Go bang 1 shut noisily. 2 explode. 3 (as bang goes
etc.) Colloq. Be suddenly lost (bang go my hopes). [imitative]
Banger n. 1 slang sausage. 2 slang noisy old car. 3 firework designed to go bang.
Banister n. (also bannister) (usu. In pl.) Uprights and handrail beside a staircase.
[corruption of *baluster]
Bank1 —n. 1 sloping ground beside a river. 2 raised area, esp. In the sea; slope.
3 mass of cloud, fog, snow, etc. —v. 1 (often foll. By up) heap or rise into banks.
2 pack (a fire) tightly for slow burning. 3 a (of a vehicle, aircraft, etc.) Round a
curve with one side higher than the other. B cause to do this. [old norse: related
to *bench]
Bannock n. Scot. & n.engl. Round flat loaf, usu. Unleavened. [old english]
Banns n.pl. Notice announcing an intended marriage, read out in a parish church.
[pl. Of *ban]
Banquet —n. Sumptuous, esp. Formal, feast or dinner. —v. (-t-) attend, or
entertain with, a banquet; feast. [french diminutive of banc bench]
Banquette n. Upholstered bench, esp. In a restaurant or bar. [french from italian]
Banshee n. Ir. & scot. Wailing female spirit warning of death in a house. [irish, =
fairy woman]
Bantu —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 often offens. Member of a large group of central
and southern african blacks. 2 group of languages spoken by them. —adj. Of
these peoples or languages. [bantu, = people]
Banyan n. (also banian) indian fig tree with self-rooting branches. [portuguese
from sanskrit, = trader]
Baobab n. African tree with a massive trunk and large pulpy fruit. [probably
african dial.]
Baptism n. Symbolic admission to the christian church, with water and usu.
Name-giving. baptismal adj. [greek baptizo baptize]
Baptist n. 1 person who baptizes, esp. John the baptist. 2 (baptist) christian
advocating baptism by total immersion.
Baptistery n. (pl. -ies) 1 a part of a church used for baptism. B hist. Separate
building used for baptism. 2 (in a baptist chapel) receptacle used for immersion.
Baptize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 administer baptism to. 2 give a name or
nickname to.
Bar1 —n. 1 long piece of rigid material, esp. Used to confine or obstruct. 2 a
something of similar form (bar of soap; bar of chocolate). B band of colour or
light. C heating element of an electric fire. D metal strip below the clasp of a
medal, awarded as an extra distinction. E heraldry narrow horizontal stripe
across a shield. 3 a counter for serving alcohol etc. On. B room or building
containing it. C small shop or stall serving refreshments (snack bar). D counter
for a special service (heel bar). 4 a barrier. B restriction (colour bar; bar to
promotion). 5 prisoner’s enclosure in a lawcourt. 6 any of the sections into
which a piece of music is divided by vertical lines. 7 (the bar) law a barristers
collectively. B profession of barrister. —v. (-rr-) 1 a fasten with a bar or bars. B
(usu. Foll. By in, out) shut or keep in or out. 2 obstruct, prevent. 3 (usu. Foll. By
from) prohibit, exclude. 4 mark with stripes. —prep. Except. be called to the bar
be admitted as barrister. Behind bars in prison. [french]
Bar2 n. Esp. Meteorol. Unit of pressure, 105 newtons per square metre, approx.
One atmosphere. [greek baros weight]
Barbecue —n. 1 a meal cooked over charcoal etc. Out of doors. B party for this.
2 grill etc. Used for this. —v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) cook on a barbecue. [spanish
from haitian]
Barbed wire n. Wire with interwoven sharp spikes, used in fences and barriers.
Barbell n. Iron bar with removable weights at each end, used for weightlifting.
Barber n. Person who cuts men’s hair etc. By profession. [medieval latin barba
beard]
Barberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 shrub with yellow flowers and red berries. 2 its berry.
[french berberis]
Barber’s pole n. Pole with spiral red and white stripes as a barber’s sign.
Barbiturate n. Soporific or sedative drug from barbituric acid. [german, from the
name barbara]
Barefoot adj. & adv. (also barefooted) wearing nothing on the feet.
Bargain —n. 1 a agreement on the terms of a sale etc. B this from the buyer’s
viewpoint (a bad bargain). 2 cheap thing. —v. (often foll. By with, for) discuss
the terms of a sale etc. (bargained with me; bargain for the table). bargain for (or
colloq. On) be prepared for; expect. Bargain on rely on. Into the bargain
moreover. [french from germanic]
Bargeboard n. Board fixed to the gable-end of a roof to hide the ends of the roof
timbers. [perhaps from medieval latin bargus gallows]
Bargepole n. would not touch with a bargepole refuse to be associated or
concerned with.
Baritone n. 1 a second-lowest adult male singing voice. B singer with this voice.
2 instrument pitched second-lowest in its family. [greek barus heavy, tonos tone]
Bark1 —n. 1 sharp explosive cry of a dog, fox, etc. 2 sound like this. —v. 1 (of a
dog etc.) Give a bark. 2 speak or utter sharply or brusquely. 3 colloq. Cough
harshly. bark up the wrong tree make false assumptions. [old english]
Bark2 —n. Tough outer skin of tree-trunks, branches, etc. —v. 1 graze (one’s
shin etc.). 2 strip bark from. [scandinavian]
Barley n. 1 cereal used as food and in spirits. 2 (also barleycorn) its grain. [old
english]
Barley water n. Drink made from a boiled barley mixture.
Barmy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang crazy, stupid. [from *barm: earlier, = frothy]
Barn n. Large farm building for storing grain etc. [old english, = barley house]
Baronet n. Member of the lowest hereditary titled british order. baronetcy n. (pl.
-ies).
Baroque —adj. 1 highly ornate and extravagant in style, esp. Of european art etc.
Of the 17th and 18th c. 2 of this period. —n. Baroque style or art. [portuguese,
originally = misshapen pearl]
Barque n. 1 sailing-ship with the rear mast fore-and-aft rigged and other masts
square-rigged. 2 poet. Boat. [provençal from latin barca]
Barrack1 —n. (usu. In pl., often treated as sing.) 1 housing for soldiers. 2 large
bleak building. —v. Lodge (soldiers etc.) In barracks. [italian or spanish]
Barrack2 v. 1 shout or jeer at (players, a speaker, etc.). 2 (foll. By for) cheer for,
encourage (a team etc.). [perhaps from australian slang borak banter]
Barracouta n. (pl. Same or -s) long slender fish of southern oceans. [var. Of
*barracuda]
Barré n. Method of playing a chord on the guitar etc. With a finger laid across
the strings at a particular fret. [french barrer bar]
Barren adj. (-er, -est) 1 a unable to bear young. B (of land, a tree, etc.)
Unproductive. 2 unprofitable, dull. barrenness n. [french]
Barricade —n. Barrier, esp. Improvised. —v. (-ding) block or defend with this.
[french barrique cask]
Barrier n. 1 fence etc. That bars advance or access. 2 obstacle (class barriers).
[romanic: related to *bar1]
Barrister n. Advocate entitled to practise in the higher courts. [from bar1: cf.
minister]
Barter —v. 1 trade in goods without using money. 2 exchange (goods). —n.
Trade by bartering. [perhaps from french]
Basalt n. A dark volcanic rock. basaltic adj. [latin basaltes from greek]
Base2 adj. 1 cowardly, despicable. 2 menial. 3 alloyed (base coin). 4 (of a metal)
low in value. [latin bassus]
Baseball n. 1 game played esp. In the us with a circuit of four bases which
batsmen must complete. 2 ball used in this.
Base rate n. Interest rate set by the bank of england, used as the basis for other
banks’ rates.
Bash —v. 1 a strike bluntly or heavily. B (often foll. By up) colloq. Attack
violently. C (often foll. By down, in, etc.) Damage or break by striking forcibly.
2 (foll. By into) collide with. —n. 1 heavy blow. 2 slang attempt. [imitative]
Basilica n. 1 ancient roman hall with an apse and colonnades, used as a lawcourt
etc. 2 similar building as a christian church. [greek basilike (stoa) royal
(portico)]
Basilisk n. 1 mythical reptile with lethal breath and glance. 2 small american
crested lizard. [greek, diminutive of basileus king]
Basin n. 1 round open vessel for holding liquids or preparing food in. 2 = *wash-
basin. 3 hollow depression. 4 sheltered mooring area. 5 round valley. 6 area
drained by a river. basinful n. (pl. -s). [medieval latin ba(s)cinus]
Bask v. 1 relax in warmth and light. 2 (foll. By in) revel in (basking in glory).
[old norse: related to *bathe]
Basket n. 1 container made of interwoven cane, reed, wire, etc. 2 amount held by
this. 3 the goal in basketball, or a goal scored. 4 econ. Group or range (of
currencies). [french]
Basketball n. 1 game in which goals are scored by putting the ball through high
nets. 2 ball used in this.
Basketwork n. = *basketry.
Basking shark n. Large shark which lies near the surface of the sea.
Bass1 —n. 1 a lowest adult male singing voice. B singer with this voice. 2
instrument pitched lowest in its family. 3 colloq. Bass guitar or double-bass. 4
low-frequency output of a radio, record-player, etc. —adj. 1 lowest in musical
pitch. 2 deep-sounding. bassist n. (in sense 3). [from *base2 altered after italian
basso]
Bass2 n. (pl. Same or -es) 1 common perch. 2 other spiny-finned fish of the
perch family. [old english]
Bass clef n. Clef placing f below middle c on the second highest line of the staff.
Basset n. (in full basset-hound) sturdy hunting-dog with a long body and short
legs. [french diminutive of bas low]
Bast n. Fibre from the inner bark of a tree (esp. The lime). [old english]
Bastard often offens. —n. 1 person born of an unmarried mother. 2 slang a
unpleasant or despicable person. B person of a specified kind (poor, lucky,
bastard). 3 slang difficult or awkward thing. —attrib. Adj. 1 illegitimate by birth.
2 unauthorized, counterfeit, hybrid. bastardy n. (in sense 1 of n.). [french from
medieval latin]
Baste1 v. (-ting) 1 moisten (meat) with fat etc. During cooking. 2 beat, thrash.
[origin unknown]
Baste2 v. (-ting) sew with large loose stitches, tack. [french from germanic]
Bastinado —n. Beating with a stick on the soles of the feet. —v. (-es, -ed)
punish in this way. [spanish baston stick]
Bat1 —n. 1 implement with a handle, used for hitting balls in games. 2 turn with
this. 3 batsman. —v. (-tt-) 1 hit with or as with a bat. 2 take a turn at batting. off
one’s own bat unprompted, unaided. [old english from french]
Bat3 v. (-tt-) not (or never) bat an eyelid colloq. Show no reaction or emotion.
[var. Of obsolete bate flutter]
Bath —n. (pl. -s) 1 a (usu. Plumbed-in) container for sitting in and washing the
body. B its contents. 2 act of washing in it (have a bath). 3 (usu. In pl.) Public
building with baths or a swimming-pool. 4 a vessel containing liquid for
immersing something, e.g. A film for developing. B its contents. —v. 1 wash
(esp. A baby) in a bath. 2 take a bath. [old english]
Bath bun n. Round spiced bun with currants, often iced. [bath in s. England]
Bathe —v. (-thing) 1 immerse oneself in water, esp. To swim or wash oneself. 2
immerse in, wash, or treat with liquid. 3 (of sunlight etc.) Envelop. —n. Swim.
[old english]
Bathos n. Lapse in mood from the sublime to the absurd or trivial; anticlimax.
bathetic adj. Bathotic adj. [greek, = depth]
Bath salts n.pl. Soluble powder or crystals for scenting or softening bath-water.
Bathyscaphe n. Manned vessel for deep-sea diving. [greek bathus deep, skaphos
ship]
Batiste n. Fine linen or cotton cloth. [french from baptiste, name of the first
maker]
Baton n. 1 thin stick for conducting an orchestra etc. 2 short stick passed on in a
relay race. 3 stick carried by a drum major. 4 staff of office. [french from latin]
Batrachian —n. Amphibian that discards its gills and tail, esp. A frog or toad. —
adj. Of batrachians. [greek batrakhos frog]
Battalion n. 1 army unit usu. Of 300–1000 men. 2 large group with a common
aim. [italian battaglia *battle]
Batten1 —n. 1 a long flat strip of squared timber. B horizontal strip of wood to
which laths, tiles, etc., are fastened. 2 strip for securing tarpaulin over a ship’s
hatchway. —v. Strengthen or (often foll. By down) fasten with battens. [french:
related to *batter1]
Battenberg n. Oblong sponge cake, usu. Of two colours and covered with
marzipan. [battenberg in germany]
Batter1 v. 1 a strike hard and repeatedly. B (often foll. By against, at, etc.) Pound
insistently (batter at the door). 2 (often in passive) a subject to long-term
violence (battered baby, wife). B criticize severely. batterer n. [french battre
beat: related to *battle]
Batter2 n. Mixture of flour, egg, and milk or water, used for pancakes etc.
[french: related to *batter1]
Battle —n. 1 prolonged fight between armed forces. 2 difficult struggle; contest
(battle for supremacy; battle of wits). —v. (-ling) engage in battle; fight. half the
battle key to the success of an undertaking. [latin battuo beat]
Battledore n. Hist. 1 (in full battledore and shuttlecock) game played with a
shuttlecock and rackets. 2 racket used in this. [perhaps from provençal batedor
beater]
Battlement n. (usu. In pl.) Recessed parapet along the top of a wall, as part of a
fortification. [french batailler fortify]
Battleship n. Heavily armoured warship.
Baulk (also balk) —v. 1 (often foll. By at) jib, hesitate. 2 a thwart, hinder. B
disappoint. 3 miss, let slip (a chance etc.). —n. 1 hindrance; stumbling-block. 2
roughly-squared timber beam. [old english]
Bauxite n. Claylike mineral, the chief source of aluminium. [french from les
baux in s. France]
Bawdy —adj. (-ier, -iest) humorously indecent. —n. Such talk or writing. [bawd
brothel-keeper from french baudetrot]
Bawdy-house n. Brothel.
Bawl v. 1 speak or shout noisily. 2 weep loudly. bawl out colloq. Reprimand
angrily. [imitative]
Bay2 n. 1 laurel with deep green leaves. 2 (in pl.) Bay wreath, for a victor or
poet. [latin baca berry]
Bay4 —adj. (esp. Of a horse) dark reddish-brown. —n. Bay horse. [latin badius]
Bay5 —v. Bark or howl loudly and plaintively. —n. Sound of this, esp. Of
hounds in close pursuit. at bay cornered, unable to escape. Keep at bay hold off
(a pursuer). [french bayer to bark]
Bay window n. Window projecting outwards from a wall.
Bdellium n. 1 tree yielding resin. 2 this used in perfumes. [latin from greek]
Be symb. Beryllium.
Be symb. Beryllium.
Be v. (sing. Present am; are; is; past was; were; pres. Part. Being; past part.
Been) 1 exist, live (i think, therefore i am; there is no god). 2 a occur; take place
(dinner is at eight).
Bevel —n. 1 slope from the horizontal or vertical in carpentry etc.; sloping
surface or edge. 2 tool for marking angles. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 reduce (a square
edge) to a sloping edge. 2 slope at an angle. [french]
Bevy n. (pl. -ies) company (of quails, larks, women, etc.). [origin unknown]
Beware v. (only in imper. Or infin.; often foll. By of) be cautious (of) (beware of
the dog; beware the ides of march). [from *be, ware cautious]
Bezel n. 1 sloped edge of a chisel. 2 oblique faces of a cut gem. 3 groove holding
a watch-glass or gem. [french]
Bi symb. Bismuth.
Bi-comb. Form forming nouns, adjectives, and verbs, meaning: 1 division into
two (biplane; bisect). 2 a occurring twice in every one or once in every two (bi-
weekly). B lasting for two (biennial). 3 chem. Substance having a double
proportion of what is indicated by the simple word (bicarbonate). 4 bot. & zool.
Having divided parts which are themselves similarly divided (bipinnate). [latin]
Bias binding n. Strip of fabric cut obliquely and used to bind edges.
Biathlon n. Athletic contest in skiing and shooting or cycling and running. [from
*bi-, after *pentathlon]
Bib n. 1 piece of cloth etc. Fastened round a child’s neck while eating. 2 top
front part of an apron, dungarees, etc. [origin uncertain]
Bicameral adj. (of a legislative body) having two chambers. [from *bi-, latin
camera chamber]
Bicarbonate n. 1 any acid salt of carbonic acid. 2 (in full bicarbonate of soda)
sodium bicarbonate used as an antacid or in baking-powder.
Biceps n. (pl. Same) muscle with two heads or attachments, esp. That bending
the elbow. [latin caput head]
Bicuspid —adj. Having two cusps. —n. The premolar tooth in humans. [from bi-
, cusp]
Bid —v. (-dd-; past bid, archaic bade; past part. Bid, archaic bidden) 1 (past and
past part. Bid) a (esp. At an auction) make an offer (of) (bid for the vase; bid
£20). B offer a service for a stated price. 2 literary command; invite (bid the
soldiers shoot; bade her start). 3 literary utter (a greeting or farewell) to (i bade
him welcome). 4 (past and past part. Bid) cards state before play how many
tricks one intends to make. —n. 1 act of bidding. 2 amount bid. 3 colloq.
Attempt; effort (bid for power). bidder n. [old english]
Biddy n. (pl. -ies) slang woman (esp. Old biddy). [a form of the name bridget]
Bide v. (-ding) bide one’s time wait for a good opportunity. [old english]
Bidet n. Low basin for sitting on to wash the genital area. [french, = pony]
Biennial —adj. Lasting, or recurring every, two years. —n. Plant that grows
from seed one year and flowers and dies the following. [latin annus year]
Bifid adj. Divided by a deep cleft into two parts. [latin findo cleave]
Bifocal —adj. Having two focuses, esp. Of a lens with a part for distant and a
part for near vision. —n. (in pl.) Bifocal spectacles.
Bifurcate —v. (-ting) fork. —adj. Forked; branched. bifurcation n. [latin furca
fork]
Bigamy n. (pl. -ies) crime of marrying while still married to another person.
bigamist n. Bigamous adj. [greek gamos marriage]
Big bang theory n. Theory that the universe began with the explosion of dense
matter.
Big end n. (in a vehicle) end of the connecting-rod, encircling the crankpin.
Bigot n. Obstinate believer who is intolerant of others. bigoted adj. Bigotry n.
[french]
Big time n. (prec. By the) slang success, esp. In show business. big-timer n.
Bijou —n. (pl. -x pronunc. Same) jewel; trinket. —attrib. Adj. (bijou) small and
elegant. [french]
Bike colloq. —n. Bicycle or motor cycle. —v. (-king) ride a bike. biker n.
[abbreviation]
Bikini n. (pl. -s) two-piece swimsuit for women. [bikini, pacific atoll]
Bilateral adj. 1 of, on, or with two sides. 2 affecting or between two parties,
countries, etc. bilaterally adv.
Bilberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 hardy n. European shrub of heaths and mountains. 2 its
small dark-blue edible berry. [scandinavian]
Bile n. 1 bitter digestive fluid secreted by the liver. 2 bad temper; peevish anger.
[latin bilis]
Bilge n. 1 a the almost flat part of a ship’s bottom. B (in full bilge-water) filthy
water that collects there. 2 slang nonsense. [probably var. Of *bulge]
Bill2 —n. 1 bird’s beak. 2 narrow promontory. —v. (of doves etc.) Stroke bills.
bill and coo exchange caresses. [old english]
Billet1 —n. 1 a place where troops etc. Are lodged. B order to provide this. 2
colloq. Job. —v. (-t-) (usu. Foll. By on, in, at) quarter (soldiers etc.). [anglo-
french diminutive of *bill1]
Billiards n. 1 game played on a table, with three balls struck with cues. 2
(billiard) (in comb.) Used in billiards (billiard-ball). [french: related to *billet2]
Billion adj. & n. (pl. Same or (in sense 3) -s) 1 a thousand million (109). 2 (now
less often) a million million (1012). 3 (in pl.) Colloq. A very large number
(billions of years). billionth adj. & n. [french]
Billionaire n. Person who has over a billion pounds, dollars, etc. [after
*millionaire]
Bill of exchange n. Written order to pay a sum of money on a given date to the
drawer or to a named payee.
Billow —n. 1 wave. 2 any large mass. —v. Rise, fill, or surge in billows. billowy
adj. [old norse]
Billy1 n. (pl. -ies) (in full billycan) austral. Tin or enamel outdoor cooking-pot.
[perhaps from aboriginal billa water]
Billy2 n. (pl. -ies) (in full billy-goat) male goat. [from the name billy]
Bimbo n. (pl. -s or -es) slang usu. Derog. Attractive but unintelligent young
woman. [italian, = little child]
Binary —adj. 1 of two parts, dual. 2 of the binary system. —n. (pl. -ies) 1
something having two parts. 2 binary number. [latin bini two together]
Binary system n. System using the digits 0 and 1 to code information, esp. In
computing.
Binaural adj. 1 of or used with both ears. 2 (of sound) recorded using two
microphones and usu. Transmitted separately to the two ears. [from bi-, aural]
Bind —v. (past and past part. Bound) 1 tie or fasten tightly. 2 restrain forcibly. 3
(cause to) cohere. 4 compel; impose a duty on. 5 a edge with braid etc. B fasten
(the pages of a book) in a cover. 6 constipate. 7 ratify (a bargain, agreement,
etc.). 8 (often foll. By up) bandage. —n. Colloq. Nuisance; restriction. bind over
law order (a person) to do something, esp. Keep the peace. [old english]
Binder n. 1 cover for loose papers etc. 2 substance that binds things together. 3
hist. Reaping-machine that binds grain into sheaves. 4 bookbinder.
Binding —n. Thing that binds, esp. The covers, glue, etc., of a book. —adj.
Obligatory.
Bine n. 1 twisting stem of a climbing plant, esp. The hop. 2 flexible shoot. [dial.
Form of *bind]
Bin end n. One of the last bottles from a bin of wine, usu. Sold at a reduced
price.
Binge slang —n. Bout of excessive eating, drinking, etc.; spree. —v. (-ging)
indulge in a binge. [probably dial., = soak]
Bingo n. Gambling game in which each player has a card with numbers to be
Bingo n. Gambling game in which each player has a card with numbers to be
marked off as they are called. [origin uncertain]
Binocular adj. For both eyes. [latin bini two together, oculus eye]
Binoculars n.pl. Instrument with a lens for each eye, for viewing distant objects.
Binomial —n. Algebraic expression of the sum or the difference of two terms.
—adj. Of two terms. [greek nomos part]
Biology n. The study of living organisms. biologist n. [german: related to *bio-]
Bionics n.pl. (treated as sing.) The study of mechanical systems that function
like living organisms.
Biopsy n. (pl. -ies) examination of severed tissue for diagnosis. [greek bios life,
opsis sight]
Biotin n. Vitamin of the b complex, found in egg-yolk, liver, and yeast. [greek
bios life]
Bipartite adj. 1 of two parts. 2 shared by or involving two parties. [latin bipartio
divide in two]
Biped —n. Two-footed animal. —adj. Two-footed. bipedal adj. [latin bipes -
edis]
Biplane n. Aeroplane with two sets of wings, one above the other.
Birch —n. 1 tree with pale hard wood and thin peeling bark, bearing catkins. 2
bundle of birch twigs used for flogging. —v. Beat with a birch. [old english]
Birdie n. 1 colloq. Little bird. 2 golf hole played in one under par.
Bird’s-eye view n. Detached view from above.
Biretta n. Square usu. Black cap worn by roman catholic priests. [latin birrus
cape]
Biro n. (pl. -s) propr. A kind of ball-point pen. [biró, name of its inventor]
Birth rate n. Number of live births per thousand of population per year.
Biscuit n. 1 flat thin unleavened cake, usu. Crisp and sweet. 2 fired unglazed
pottery. 3 light brown colour. [latin bis twice, coquo cook]
Bisect v. Divide into two (strictly, equal) parts. bisection n. Bisector n. [from
*bi-, latin seco sect-cut]
Bisque3 n. = *biscuit 2.
Bit1 n. 1 small piece or quantity. 2 (prec. By a) fair amount (sold quite a bit). 3
often colloq. Short or small time, distance, or amount (wait a bit; move up a bit;
often colloq. Short or small time, distance, or amount (wait a bit; move up a bit;
a bit tired; a bit of an idiot). bit by bit gradually. Do one’s bit colloq. Make a
useful contribution. [old english]
Bitch —n. 1 female dog or other canine animal. 2 slang offens. Spiteful woman.
3 slang unpleasant or difficult thing. —v. 1 speak scathingly or spitefully. 2
complain. [old english]
Bite —v. (-ting; past bit; past part. Bitten) 1 cut or puncture with the teeth. 2
(foll. By off, away, etc.) Detach thus. 3 (of an insect etc.) Sting. 4 (of a wheel
etc.) Grip, penetrate. 5 accept bait or an inducement. 6 be harsh in effect, esp.
Intentionally. 7 (in passive) a swindle. B (foll. By by, with, etc.) Be infected by
(enthusiasm etc.). 8 colloq. Worry, perturb. 9 cause smarting pain (biting wind).
10 be sharp or effective (biting wit). 11 (foll. By at) snap at. —n. 1 act of biting.
2 wound etc. Made by biting. 3 a mouthful of food. B snack. 4 taking of bait by a
fish. 5 pungency (esp. Of flavour). 6 incisiveness, sharpness. 7 position of the
teeth when the jaws are closed. bite the dust slang die. Bite a person’s head off
colloq. Respond angrily. Bite one’s lip repress emotion etc. [old english]
Bitter —adj. 1 having a sharp pungent taste; not sweet. 2 causing, showing, or
feeling mental pain or resentment (bitter memories). 3 a harsh; virulent (bitter
animosity). B piercingly cold. —n. 1 beer flavoured with hops and tasting
slightly bitter. 2 (in pl.) Liquor flavoured esp. With wormwood, used in
cocktails. to the bitter end to the very end in spite of difficulties. bitterly adv.
Bitterness n. [old english]
Bittern n. Wading bird of the heron family. [french butor from latin butio]
Bivalve —n. Aquatic mollusc with a hinged double shell, e.g. The oyster and
mussel. —adj. With such a shell.
Bivouac —n. Temporary open encampment without tents. —v. (-ck-) make, or
camp in, a bivouac. [french, probably from german]
Bk symb. Berkelium.
Blabber —n. (also blabbermouth) person who blabs. —v. (often foll. By on) talk
foolishly or inconsequentially.
Black —adj. 1 reflecting no light, colourless from lack of light (like coal or
soot); completely dark. 2 (black) of the human group with dark-coloured skin,
esp. African. 3 (of the sky etc.) Heavily overcast. 4 angry; gloomy (black look,
mood). 5 implying disgrace etc. (in his black books). 6 wicked, sinister, deadly.
7 portending trouble (things look black). 8 comic but sinister (black comedy). 9
(of tea or coffee) without milk. 10 (of industrial labour or its products)
boycotted, esp. By a trade union, in a strike etc. —n. 1 black colour or pigment.
2 black clothes or material (dressed in black). 3 a (in a game) black piece, ball,
etc. B player of this. 4 credit side of an account (in the black).
Black —adj. 1 reflecting no light, colourless from lack of light (like coal or
soot); completely dark. 2 (black) of the human group with dark-coloured skin,
esp. African. 3 (of the sky etc.) Heavily overcast. 4 angry; gloomy (black look,
mood). 5 implying disgrace etc. (in his black books). 6 wicked, sinister, deadly.
7 portending trouble (things look black). 8 comic but sinister (black comedy). 9
(of tea or coffee) without milk. 10 (of industrial labour or its products)
boycotted, esp. By a trade union, in a strike etc. —n. 1 black colour or pigment.
2 black clothes or material (dressed in black). 3 a (in a game) black piece, ball,
etc. B player of this. 4 credit side of an account (in the black). 5 (black) member
of a dark-skinned race, esp. An african. —v. 1 make black (blacked his boots). 2
declare (goods etc.) ‘black’. black out 1 effect a blackout on. 2 undergo a
blackout. [old english]
Black and white —n. Writing or printing (in black and white). —adj. 1 (of a film
etc.) Monochrome. 2 consisting of extremes only, oversimplified.
Black beetle n. The common cockroach.
Black belt n. 1 highest grade of proficiency in judo, karate, etc. 2 holder of this
grade, entitled to wear a black belt.
Blackbird n. Common thrush of which the male is black with an orange beak.
Blackboard n. Board with a smooth dark surface for writing on with chalk.
Black forest gateau n. Chocolate sponge with cherries and whipped cream.
Black hole n. Region of space from which matter and radiation cannot escape.
Blackjack n. = *pontoon1.
Blacklead n. Graphite.
Blackleg —n. Derog. Person refusing to join a strike etc. —v. (-gg-) act as a
blackleg.
Black pepper n. Pepper made by grinding the whole dried pepper berry including
the outer husk.
Black spot n. 1 place of danger or trouble. 2 plant disease producing black spots.
Black tie n. 1 black bow-tie worn with a dinner jacket. 2 colloq. Man’s formal
evening dress.
Black widow n. Venomous spider of which the female devours the male.
Bladder n. 1 a sac in some animals, esp. That holding urine. B this adapted for
various uses. 2 inflated blister in seaweed etc. [old english]
Blade n. 1 cutting part of a knife etc. 2 flattened part of an oar, propeller, etc. 3 a
flat narrow leaf of grass etc. B broad thin part of a leaf. 4 flat bone, e.g. In the
shoulder. [old english]
Blame —v. (-ming) 1 assign fault or responsibility to. 2 (foll. By on) fix
responsibility for (an error etc.) On (blamed it on his brother). —n. 1
responsibility for an error etc. 2 blaming or attributing of responsibility (got all
the blame). be to blame be responsible; deserve censure. blameable adj.
Blameless adj. Blameworthy adj. [french: related to *blaspheme]
Bland adj. 1 a mild, not irritating. B tasteless; insipid. 2 gentle in manner; suave.
blandly adv. Blandness n. [latin blandus smooth]
Blank —adj. 1 a (of paper) not written or printed on. B (of a document) with
spaces left for a signature or details. 2 a empty (blank space). B unrelieved
(blank wall). 3 a without interest, result, or expression (blank face). B having
(temporarily) no knowledge etc. (mind went blank). 4 complete (a blank refusal;
blank despair). —n. 1 a unfilled space, esp. In a document. B document having
blank spaces. 2 (in full blank cartridge) cartridge containing gunpowder but no
bullet. 3 dash written instead of a word or letter. —v. (usu. Foll. By off, out)
screen, obscure. draw a blank get no response; fail. blankly adv. Blankness n.
[french blanc white, from germanic]
Blank cheque n. 1 cheque left for the payee to fill in. 2 colloq. Unlimited
freedom of action.
Blanket —n. 1 large esp. Woollen sheet used as a bed-covering etc. 2 thick
covering mass or layer. —attrib. Adj. Covering everything; inclusive. —v. (-t-) 1
cover. 2 stifle, suppress. [french: related to *blank]
Blare —v. (-ring) 1 sound or utter loudly. 2 make the sound of a trumpet. —n.
Blaring sound. [low german or dutch, imitative]
Blarney —n. Cajoling talk; flattery. —v. (-eys, -eyed) flatter, cajole. [blarney,
castle near cork]
Blast —n. 1 strong gust of air. 2 a explosion. B destructive wave of air from this.
3 loud note from a wind instrument, car horn, etc. 4 colloq. Severe reprimand. —
v. 1 blow up with explosives. 2 wither, blight (blasted oak; blasted her hopes). 3
(cause to) make a loud noise. —int. Expressing annoyance. at full blast colloq.
At maximum volume, speed, etc. Blast off take off from a launching site. [old
english]
Blather (also blether) —n. Foolish talk. —v. Talk foolishly. [old norse]
Blaze1 —n. 1 bright flame or fire. 2 violent outburst (of passion etc.). 3 brilliant
display (blaze of scarlet, of glory). —v. (-zing) 1 burn or shine brightly or
fiercely. 2 be consumed with anger, excitement, etc. blaze away (often foll. By
at) 1 shoot continuously. 2 work vigorously. [old english, = torch]
Blaze2 —n. 1 white mark on an animal’s face. 2 mark cut on a tree, esp. To
show a route. —v. (-zing) mark (a tree or a path) with blazes. blaze a trail show
the way for others. [origin uncertain]
Blazer n. Jacket without matching trousers, esp. Lightweight and often part of a
uniform. [from *blaze1]
Bleat —v. 1 (of a sheep, goat, or calf) make a wavering cry. 2 (often foll. By
out) speak or say plaintively. —n. Bleating cry. [old english]
Bleed —v. (past and past part. Bled) 1 emit blood. 2 draw blood from surgically.
Bleed —v. (past and past part. Bled) 1 emit blood. 2 draw blood from surgically.
3 colloq. Extort money from. 4 (often foll. By for) suffer wounds or violent
death. 5 a emit sap. B (of dye) come out in water. 6 empty (a system) of excess
air or fluid. —n. Act of bleeding. one’s heart bleeds usu. Iron. One is very
sorrowful. [old english]
Blemish —n. Flaw, defect, or stain. —v. Spoil, mark, or stain. [french]
Blend —v. 1 mix together as required. 2 become one. 3 (often foll. By with, in)
mingle; mix thoroughly. 4 (esp. Of colours) merge imperceptibly; harmonize. —
n. Mixture. [old norse]
Blenny n. (pl. -ies) small spiny-finned scaleless marine fish. [greek blennos
mucus]
Bless v. (past and past part. Blessed, poet. Blest) 1 ask god to look favourably
on, esp. By making the sign of the cross over. 2 consecrate (food etc.). 3 glorify
(god). 4 attribute one’s good luck to (stars etc.); thank. 5 (usu. In passive) make
happy or successful (blessed with children). bless me (or my soul) exclamation
of surprise etc. Bless you! Exclamation of endearment, gratitude, etc., or to a
person who has just sneezed. [old english]
Blessed adj. (also poet. Blest) 1 holy. 2 euphem. Cursed (blessed nuisance!). 3 rc
ch. Beatified. blessedness n.
Blight —n. 1 plant disease caused by insects etc. 2 such an insect etc. 3 harmful
or destructive force. 4 ugly urban area. —v. 1 affect with blight. 2 harm, destroy.
3 spoil. [origin unknown]
Blimey int. Coarse slang expression of surprise, contempt, etc. [(god) blind me!]
Blind date n. Colloq. Date between two people who have not previously met.
Blindfold —v. Cover the eyes of (a person) with a tied cloth etc. —n. Cloth etc.
So used. —adj. & adv. 1 with eyes covered. 2 without due care. [originally
blindfelled = struck blind]
Blind man’s buff n. Game in which a blindfold player tries to catch others.
Blind spot n. 1 point on the retina insensitive to light. 2 area where vision or
understanding is lacking.
Blindworm n. = *slow-worm.
Blink —v. 1 shut and open the eyes quickly. 2 (often foll. By back) prevent
(tears) by blinking. 3 shine unsteadily, flicker. —n. 1 act of blinking. 2
momentary gleam or glimpse. blink at 1 look at while blinking. 2 ignore, shirk.
On the blink slang not working properly; out of order. [dutch, var. Of *blench]
Blinker —n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Each of two screens on a bridle preventing lateral
vision. 2 device that blinks. —v. 1 obscure with blinkers. 2 (as blinkered adj.)
Having narrow and prejudiced views.
Blinking adj. & adv. Slang expressing annoyance etc. (it’s blinking stupid).
Blip —n. 1 minor deviation or error. 2 quick popping sound. 3 small image on a
radar screen. —v. (-pp-) make a blip. [imitative]
radar screen. —v. (-pp-) make a blip. [imitative]
Bliss n. 1 perfect joy. 2 being in heaven. blissful adj. Blissfully adv. [old english]
Blister —n. 1 small bubble on the skin filled with watery fluid and caused by
heat or friction. 2 similar swelling on plastic, wood, etc. —v. 1 come up in
blisters. 2 raise a blister on. 3 attack sharply. [origin uncertain]
Blithe adj. 1 cheerful, happy. 2 careless, casual. blithely adv. [old english]
Blitz colloq. —n. 1 a intensive or sudden (esp. Aerial) attack. B intensive period
of work etc. (must have a blitz on this room). 2 (the blitz) german air raids on
london in 1940. —v. Inflict a blitz on. [abbreviation of *blitzkrieg]
Bloat v. 1 inflate, swell. 2 (as bloated adj.) Inflated with pride, wealth, or food. 3
cure (a herring) by salting and smoking lightly. [old norse]
Block —n. 1 solid piece of hard material, esp. Stone or wood. 2 this as a base for
chopping etc., as a stand, or for mounting a horse from. 3 a large building, esp.
When subdivided. B group of buildings between streets. 4 obstruction. 5 two or
more pulleys mounted in a case. 6 piece of wood or metal engraved for printing.
7 slang head. 8 (often attrib.) Number of things as a unit, e.g. Shares, theatre
seats (block booking). 9 sheets of paper glued along one edge. —v. 1 a (often
foll. By up) obstruct. B impede. 2 restrict the use of. 3 cricket stop (a ball) with a
bat defensively. block in 1 sketch roughly; plan. 2 confine. Block out 1 shut out
(light, noise, a memory, view, etc.). 2 sketch roughly; plan. Block up confine;
enclose. [low german or dutch]
Blockage n. Obstruction.
Block and tackle n. System of pulleys and ropes, esp. For lifting.
Blockbuster n. Slang 1 thing of great power, esp. A very successful film, book,
etc. 2 highly destructive bomb.
Block capitals n.pl. (also block letters) letters printed without serifs, or written
with each letter separate and in capitals.
Blond (of a woman usu. Blonde) —adj. (of a person, hair, or complexion) light-
coloured, fair. —n. Blond person. [latin blondus yellow]
Blood —n. 1 usu. Red fluid circulating in the arteries and veins of animals. 2
bloodshed, esp. Killing. 3 passion, temperament. 4 race, descent, parentage (of
the same blood). 5 relationship; relations (blood is thicker than water). 6 dandy.
—v. 1 give (a hound) a first taste of blood. 2 initiate (a person). in one’s blood
inherent in one’s character. [old english]
Blood bank n. Store of blood for transfusion.
Blood pressure n. Pressure of the blood in the arteries etc., measured for
diagnosis.
Bloodshed n. Killing.
Bloody —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, running with, or smeared with blood. 2 a
involving bloodshed. B bloodthirsty, cruel. 3 coarse slang expressing annoyance
or antipathy, or as an intensifier (bloody fool; a bloody sight better). 4 red. —
adv. Coarse slang as an intensifier (bloody awful). —v. (-ies, -ied) stain with
blood.
Bloom —n. 1 a flower, esp. Cultivated. B state of flowering (in bloom). 2 one’s
prime (in full bloom). 3 a healthy glow of the complexion. B fine powder on
fresh fruit and leaves. —v. 1 bear flowers; be in flower. 2 be in one’s prime;
flourish. [old norse]
Bloomers n.pl. 1 women’s long loose knickers. 2 hist. Women’s loose knee-
length trousers. [mrs a. Bloomer, name of the originator]
Blot —n. 1 spot or stain of ink etc. 2 disgraceful act or quality. 3 blemish. —v. (-
tt-) 1 make a blot on, stain. 2 dry with blotting-paper. blot one’s copybook
damage one’s reputation. Blot out 1 obliterate. 2 obscure (a view, sound, etc.).
[probably scandinavian]
Blotto adj. Slang very drunk. [origin uncertain]
Blouse —n. 1 woman’s garment like a shirt. 2 upper part of a military uniform.
—v. (-sing) make (a bodice etc.) Full like a blouse. [french]
Blow1 —v. (past blew; past part. Blown) 1 direct a current of air (at) esp. From
the mouth. 2 drive or be driven by blowing (blew the door open). 3 (esp. Of the
wind) move rapidly. 4 expel by breathing (blew smoke). 5 sound or be sounded
by blowing. 6 (past part. Blowed) slang (esp. In imper.) Curse, confound (i’m
blowed if i know; blow it!). 7 clear (the nose) by blowing. 8 puff, pant. 9 slang
depart suddenly (from). 10 shatter etc. By an explosion. 11 make or shape (glass
or a bubble) by blowing. 12 a melt from overloading (the fuse has blown). B
break or burst suddenly. 13 (of a whale) eject air and water. 14 break into with
explosives. 15 slang a squander (blew £20). B bungle (an opportunity etc.). C
reveal (a secret etc.). —n. 1 act of blowing. 2 a gust of wind or air. B exposure to
fresh air. be blowed if one will colloq. Be unwilling to. Blow a gasket slang lose
one’s temper. Blow hot and cold colloq. Vacillate. Blow in 1 break inwards by
an explosion. 2 colloq. Arrive unexpectedly. Blow a person’s mind slang cause
to have hallucinations etc.; astound. Blow off 1 escape or allow (steam etc.) To
escape forcibly. 2 slang break wind noisily. Blow out 1 extinguish by blowing. 2
send outwards by an explosion. Blow over (of trouble etc.) Fade away. Blow
one’s top colloq. Explode in rage. Blow up 1 explode. 2 colloq. Rebuke strongly.
3 inflate (a tyre etc.). 4 colloq. A enlarge (a photograph). B exaggerate. 5 colloq.
Arise, happen. 6 colloq. Lose one’s temper. [old english]
Blow-dry —v. Arrange (the hair) while drying it. —n. Act of doing this.
Blowfly n. Bluebottle.
Blowlamp n. Device with a very hot flame for burning off paint, plumbing, etc.
Blowpipe n. 1 tube for blowing air through, esp. To intensify a flame or to blow
glass. 2 tube for propelling poisoned darts etc. By blowing.
Blowtorch n. Us = *blowlamp.
Blubber —n. Whale fat. —v. 1 sob loudly. 2 sob out (words). —adj. Swollen,
thick. [probably imitative]
Bludgeon —n. Heavy club. —v. 1 beat with this. 2 coerce. [origin unknown]
Blue —adj. (bluer, bluest) 1 having the colour of a clear sky. 2 sad, depressed. 3
pornographic (a blue film). 4 politically conservative. —n. 1 blue colour or
pigment. 2 blue clothes or material (dressed in blue). 3 person who represents a
university in a sport, esp. Oxford or cambridge. 4 conservative party supporter.
—v. (blues, blued, bluing or blueing) 1 make blue. 2 slang squander. once in a
blue moon very rarely. Out of the blue unexpectedly. [french from germanic]
Blue baby n. Baby with a blue complexion due to a congenital heart defect.
Blue peter n. Blue flag with a white square flown by a ship about to leave port.
Blues n.pl. 1 (prec. By the) bout of depression. 2 a (prec. By the; often treated as
sing.) Melancholic music of black american origin, usu. In a twelve-bar
sequence. B (pl. Same) (as sing.) Piece of such music (played a blues).
Bluff1 —v. Pretend strength, confidence, etc. —n. Act of bluffing. call a
person’s bluff challenge a person to prove a claim. [dutch bluffen brag]
Bluff2 —adj. 1 blunt, frank, hearty. 2 vertical or steep and broad in front. —n.
Steep cliff or headland. [origin unknown]
Blunt —adj. 1 not sharp or pointed. 2 direct, outspoken. —v. Make blunt or less
sharp. bluntly adv. (in sense 2 of adj.). Bluntness n. [probably scandinavian]
Blur —v. (-rr-) make or become unclear or less distinct; smear. —n. Blurred
object, sound, memory, etc. [perhaps related to *bleary]
Blush —v. 1 a become pink in the face from embarrassment or shame. B (of the
face) redden thus. 2 feel embarrassed or ashamed. 3 redden. —n. 1 act of
blushing. 2 pink tinge. [old english]
Blusher n. Rouge.
Bluster —v. 1 behave pompously or boisterously. 2 (of the wind etc.) Blow
fiercely. —n. Bombastic talk; empty threats. blustery adj. [imitative]
Boa n. 1 large snake which kills by crushing and suffocating. 2 long stole of
feathers or fur. [latin]
Board —n. 1 a flat thin piece of sawn timber, usu. Long and narrow. B material
resembling this, of compressed fibres. C thin slab of wood etc. D thick stiff card
used in bookbinding. 2 provision of regular meals, usu. With accommodation,
for payment. 3 directors of a company; official administrative body. 4 (in pl.)
Stage of a theatre. 5 side of a ship. —v. 1 go on board (a ship, train, etc.). 2
receive, or provide with, meals and usu. Lodging. 3 (usu. Foll. By up) cover with
boards; seal or close. go by the board be neglected or discarded. On board on or
on to a ship, aircraft, oil rig, etc. Take on board consider, take notice of; accept.
[old english]
Boast —v. 1 declare one’s virtues, wealth, etc. With excessive pride. 2 own or
have with pride (hotel boasts a ballroom). —n. 1 act of boasting. 2 thing one is
proud of. [anglo-french]
Boat —n. 1 small vessel propelled on water by an engine, oars, or sails. 2 any
ship. 3 long low jug for sauce etc. —v. Go in a boat, esp. For pleasure. in the
same boat having the same problems. [old english]
Bob1 —v. (-bb-) 1 move quickly up and down. 2 (usu. Foll. By back, up) bounce
or emerge buoyantly or suddenly. 3 cut (the hair) in a bob. 4 curtsy. —n. 1
jerking or bouncing movement, esp. Upward. 2 hairstyle with the hair hanging
evenly above the shoulders. 3 weight on a pendulum etc. 4 horse’s docked tail. 5
curtsy. [imitative]
Bob2 n. (pl. Same) hist. Slang shilling (now = 5 pence). [origin unknown]
Bob3 n. bob’s your uncle slang expression of completion or success. [pet form
of robert]
Bobby n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Police officer. [sir robert peel, 19th-c. Statesman]
Bob-sled n. Us = *bob-sleigh.
Bode v. (-ding) be a sign of, portend. bode well (or ill) be a good (or bad) sign.
[old english]
Bodily —adj. Of the body. —adv. 1 as a whole body (threw them bodily). 2 in
the flesh, in person.
Bodkin n. Blunt thick needle for drawing tape etc. Through a hem. [origin
uncertain]
Body n. (pl. -ies) 1 whole physical structure, including the bones, flesh, and
organs, of a person or an animal, whether dead or alive. 2 = *trunk 2. 3 main or
central part; bulk or majority (body of opinion). 4 a group regarded as a unit. B
(usu. Foll. By of) collection (body of facts). 5 quantity (body of water). 6 piece
of matter (heavenly body). 7 colloq. Person. 8 full or substantial quality of
flavour, tone, etc. in a body all together. [old english]
Bodysuit n. Close-fitting all-in-one garment for women, worn esp. For sport.
Boer —n. South african of dutch descent. —adj. Of the boers. [dutch, = farmer]
Bog —n. 1 a wet spongy ground. B stretch of this. 2 slang lavatory. —v. (-gg-)
(foll. By down; usu. In passive) impede (bogged down by snow). boggy adj. (-
ier, -iest). [irish or gaelic bogach]
Bogey1 n. (pl. -eys) golf 1 score of one stroke more than par at any hole. 2
(formerly) par. [perhaps from bogey, as an imaginary player]
Bogey2 n. (also bogy) (pl. -eys or -ies) 1 evil or mischievous spirit; devil. 2
awkward thing. 3 slang piece of dried nasal mucus. [originally (old) bogey the
devil]
Boil1 —v. 1 a (of a liquid) start to bubble up and turn into vapour on reaching a
certain temperature. B (of a vessel) contain boiling liquid (kettle is boiling). 2 a
bring to boiling point. B cook in boiling liquid. C subject to boiling water, e.g.
To clean. 3 a move or seethe like boiling water. B be very angry. —n. Act or
process of boiling; boiling-point (on the boil; bring to the boil). boil down 1
reduce in volume by boiling. 2 reduce to essentials. 3 (foll. By to) amount to.
Boil over 1 spill over in boiling. 2 lose one’s temper. [latin bullio to bubble]
Boiler n. 1 apparatus for heating a hot-water supply. 2 tank for heating water or
turning it to steam. 3 tub for boiling laundry etc. 4 fowl etc. For boiling.
Boisterous adj. 1 noisily exuberant, rough. 2 (of the sea etc.) Stormy. [origin
unknown]
Bolero n. (pl. -s) 1 spanish dance, or the music for it, in triple time. 2 woman’s
short open jacket. [spanish]
Bollard n. 1 short post in the road, esp. On a traffic island. 2 short post on a quay
or ship for securing a rope. [perhaps related to *bole]
Bolshevik —n. 1 hist. Member of the radical faction of the russian social
democratic party becoming the communist party in 1918. 2 russian communist. 3
any revolutionary socialist. —adj. 1 of the bolsheviks. 2 communist. bolshevism
n. Bolshevist n. [russian, = member of the majority]
Bolster —n. Long cylindrical pillow. —v. (usu. Foll. By up) encourage, support,
prop up. [old english]
Bolt1 —n. 1 sliding bar and socket used to fasten a door etc. 2 large metal pin
with a thread, usu. Used with a nut, to hold things together. 3 discharge of
lightning. 4 act of bolting. —v. 1 fasten with a bolt. 2 (foll. By in, out) keep (a
person etc.) In or out by bolting a door. 3 fasten together with bolts. 4 a dash off
suddenly. B (of a horse) suddenly gallop out of control. 5 gulp down (food)
unchewed. 6 (of a plant) run to seed. —adv. (usu. In bolt upright) rigidly, stiffly.
bolt from the blue complete surprise. [old english]
Bomb —n. 1 container filled with explosive, incendiary material, etc., designed
to explode and cause damage. 2 (prec. By the) the atomic or hydrogen bomb. 3
slang large sum of money (cost a bomb). —v. 1 attack with bombs; drop bombs
on. 2 (usu. Foll. By along, off) colloq. Go very quickly. like a bomb colloq. 1
very successfully. 2 very fast. [greek bombos hum]
Bombard v. 1 attack with heavy guns or bombs etc. 2 (often foll. By with)
question or abuse persistently. 3 physics direct a stream of high-speed particles
at. bombardment n. [latin: related to *bomb]
Bombay duck n. Dried fish as a relish, esp. With curry. [corruption of bombil,
native name of fish]
Bond —n. 1 thing or force that unites or (usu. In pl.) Restrains. 2 binding
agreement. 3 commerce certificate issued by a government or a company
promising to repay borrowed money at a fixed rate of interest. 4 adhesiveness. 5
law deed binding a person to make payment to another. 6 chem. Linkage
between atoms in a molecule. —v. 1 hold or tie together. 2 connect or reinforce
with a bond. 3 place (goods) in bond.
Bonded adj. 1 stored in or for storing in bond (bonded whisky, warehouse). 2 (of
a debt) secured by bonds.
Bone —n. 1 any piece of hard tissue making up the skeleton in vertebrates. 2 (in
pl.) A skeleton, esp. As remains. B body. 3 material of bones or similar material,
e.g. Ivory. 4 thing made of bone. 5 (in pl.) Essentials (the bones of an
agreement). 6 strip of stiffening in a corset etc. —v. (-ning) 1 remove the bones
from. 2 stiffen with bone etc. bone up (often foll. By on) colloq. Study
intensively. Have a bone to pick (usu. Foll. By with) have cause for dispute
(with a person). Make no bones about 1 be frank about. 2 not hesitate or scruple.
boneless adj. [old english]
Bone china n. Fine china made of clay mixed with bone ash.
Bone-marrow n. = *marrow 2.
Bonfire n. Large open-air fire, esp. For burning rubbish. [from bone (because
bones were once used), fire]
Bongo n. (pl. -s or -es) either of a pair of small drums usu. Held between the
knees and played with the fingers. [american spanish]
Bonk —v. 1 bang, bump. 2 coarse slang have sexual intercourse (with). —n.
Instance of bonking (bonk on the head). [imitative]
Bonnet n. 1 a hat tied under the chin, worn esp. By babies. B scotsman’s floppy
beret. 2 hinged cover over a vehicle’s engine. [french]
Bonny adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Scot. & n.engl. 1 a physically attractive. B healthy-
looking. 2 good, pleasant. [perhaps from french bon good]
Bonsai n. (pl. Same) 1 dwarfed tree or shrub. 2 art of growing these. [japanese]
Bon vivant n. (pl. Bon or bons vivants pronunc. Same) person fond of good food
and drink. [french]
Bony adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 thin with prominent bones. 2 having many bones. 3 of or
like bone. boniness n.
Boob1 colloq. —n. 1 silly mistake. 2 foolish person. —v. Make a silly mistake.
[shortening of *booby]
Booby trap n. 1 practical joke in the form of a trap. 2 disguised explosive device
triggered by the unknowing victim.
Book —n. 1 a written or printed work with pages bound along one side. B work
intended for publication. 2 bound blank sheets for notes, records, etc. 3 bound
set of tickets, stamps, matches, etc. 4 (in pl.) Set of records or accounts. 5 main
division of a large literary work. 6 telephone directory. 7 colloq. Magazine. 8
libretto, script, etc. 9 record of bets. —v. 1 a (also absol.) Reserve (a seat etc.) In
advance. B engage (an entertainer etc.). 2 a take the personal details of (an
offender or rule-breaker). B enter in a book or list. book in register at a hotel etc.
Book up 1 buy tickets in advance. 2 (as booked up) with all places reserved.
Bring to book call to account. Go by the book proceed by the rules. In a person’s
good (or bad) books in (or out of) favour with a person. [old english]
Bookworm n. 1 colloq. Devoted reader. 2 larva feeding on the paper and glue in
books.
Boolean logic n. Use of ‘and’, ‘or’, and ‘not’ in retrieving information from a
database.
Boom1 —n. Deep resonant sound. —v. Make or speak with a boom. [imitative]
Boon2 adj. Intimate, favourite (usu. Boon companion). [french bon from latin
bonus good]
Booth n. 1 small temporary structure used esp. As a market stall. 2 enclosure for
telephoning, voting, etc. 3 cubicle in a restaurant etc. [old norse]
Bootleg —adj. (esp. Of alcohol) smuggled, illicit. —v. (-gg-) illicitly make or
deal in (alcohol etc.). bootlegger n.
Bootstrap n. Loop used to pull a boot on. pull oneself up by one’s bootstraps
better oneself.
Booze colloq. —n. Alcoholic drink. —v. (-zing) drink alcohol, esp. To excess.
boozy adj. (-ier, -iest). [dutch]
Bop1 colloq. —n. 1 a spell of dancing, esp. To pop music. B social occasion for
this. 2 = *bebop. —v. (-pp-) dance, esp. To pop music. bopper n. [abbreviation]
Bop2 colloq. —v. (-pp-) hit or punch, esp. Lightly. —n. Esp. Light blow or hit.
[imitative]
Borage n. Plant with leaves used as flavouring. [french ultimately from arabic]
Borax n. Salt used in making glass and china, and as an antiseptic. [french
ultimately from persian]
Bordeaux n. (pl. Same) wine (esp. Red) from the bordeaux district in sw france.
Border —n. 1 edge or boundary, or the part near it. 2 a line or region separating
two countries. B (the border) boundary between scotland and england (usu. The
borders), or n. Ireland and the irish republic. 3 esp. Ornamental strip round an
edge. 4 long narrow flower-bed (herbaceous border). —v. 1 be a border to. 2
provide with a border. 3 (usu. Foll. By on, upon) a adjoin; come close to being.
B resemble. [french from germanic: related to *board]
Bore1 —v. (-ring) 1 make (a hole), esp. With a revolving tool. 2 make a hole in,
hollow out. —n. 1 hollow of a firearm barrel or of a cylinder in an internal-
combustion engine. 2 diameter of this. 3 deep hole made esp. To find water. [old
english]
Bore2 —n. Tiresome or dull person or thing. —v. (-ring) weary by tedious talk
or dullness. bored adj. Boring adj. [origin unknown]
or dullness. bored adj. Boring adj. [origin unknown]
Usage this term has now been replaced by detention centre and youth custody
centre.
Boss1 colloq. —n. Employer, manager, or supervisor. —v. (usu. Foll. By about,
around) give orders to; order about. [dutch baas]
Boss2 n. 1 round knob, stud, etc., esp. On the centre of a shield. 2 archit.
Ornamental carving etc. At the junction of the ribs in a vault. [french]
Bossa nova n. 1 dance like the samba. 2 music for this. [portuguese, = new flair]
Boss-eyed adj. Colloq. 1 cross-eyed; blind in one eye. 2 crooked. [boss = bad
shot, origin unknown]
Botany n. The study of plants. botanic adj. Botanical adj. Botanist n. [greek
botane plant]
Botch (also bodge) —v. 1 bungle; do badly. 2 patch clumsily. —n. Bungled or
spoilt work. [origin unknown]
Both —adj. & pron. The two, not only one (both boys; both the boys; both of the
boys; i like both). —adv. With equal truth in two cases (is both hot and dry). [old
norse]
Bother —v. 1 trouble; worry, disturb. 2 (often foll. By about, with, or to + infin.)
Take the time or trouble (didn’t bother to tell me; shan’t bother with dessert). —
Take the time or trouble (didn’t bother to tell me; shan’t bother with dessert). —
n. 1 a person or thing that bothers. B minor nuisance. 2 trouble, worry. —int.
Expressing irritation. [irish bodhraim deafen]
Bottle —n. 1 container, esp. Glass or plastic, for storing liquid. 2 amount filling
it. 3 baby’s feeding-bottle. 4 = hot-water bottle. 5 metal cylinder for liquefied
gas. 6 slang courage. —v. (-ling) 1 put into, or preserve in, bottles or jars. 2
(foll. By up) conceal or restrain (esp. A feeling). hit the bottle slang drink
heavily. [medieval latin: related to butt4]
Bottle green adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) dark green.
Bottle party n. Party to which guests bring bottles of drink.
Bouclé n. 1 looped or curled yarn (esp. Wool). 2 fabric made of this. [french, =
curled]
Boule n. (also boules pronunc. Same) french form of bowls played on rough
ground. [french]
Boulevard n. 1 broad tree-lined avenue. 2 esp. Us broad main road. [french from
german]
Bounce —v. (-cing) 1 (cause to) rebound. 2 slang (of a cheque) be returned by a
Bounce —v. (-cing) 1 (cause to) rebound. 2 slang (of a cheque) be returned by a
bank when there are no funds to meet it. 3 (foll. By about, up, in, out, etc.) Jump,
move, or rush boisterously. —n. 1 a rebound. B power of rebounding. 2 colloq.
A swagger, self-confidence. B liveliness. bounce back recover well after a
setback. bouncy adj. (-ier, -iest). [imitative]
Bound1 —v. 1 spring, leap. 2 (of a ball etc.) Bounce. —n. 1 springy leap. 2
bounce. [french bondir from latin bombus hum]
Bound3 adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By for) starting or having started (bound for stardom).
2 (in comb.) In a specified direction (northbound). [old norse, = ready]
Bound4 past and past part. Of *bind. bound to certain to (he’s bound to come).
Bound up with closely associated with.
Boundary n. (pl. -ies) 1 line marking the limits of an area etc. 2 cricket hit
crossing the limits of the field, scoring 4 or 6 runs. [related to *bound2]
Bounty n. (pl. -ies) 1 generosity. 2 reward, esp. From the state. 3 gift. [french
from latin bonus good]
Bouquet garni n. (pl. Bouquets garnis) bunch or bag of herbs for seasoning.
Bout n. 1 (often foll. By of) a spell (of work or activity). B attack (bout of flu). 2
wrestling-or boxing-match. [obsolete bought bending]
Bow1 —n. 1 a slip-knot with a double loop. B ribbon etc. So tied. 2 curved piece
of wood etc. With a string stretched across its ends, for shooting arrows. 3 rod
with horsehair stretched along its length, for playing the violin etc. 4 shallow
curve or bend; thing of this form. —v. (also absol.) Use a bow on (a violin etc.).
[old english]
Bow3 n. 1 (often in pl.) Front end of a boat. 2 rower nearest this. [low german or
dutch: related to *bough]
Bowel n. 1 (often in pl.) = *intestine. 2 (in pl.) Innermost parts. [latin botulus
sausage]
Bowie n. (in full bowie knife) a kind of long hunting-knife. [bowie, name of an
american soldier]
Bowl1 n. 1 a usu. Round deep basin for food or liquid. B contents of a bowl. 2
hollow part of a tobacco-pipe, spoon, etc. bowlful n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Bowl2 —n. 1 hard heavy ball, made with a bias to run in a curve. 2 (in pl.; usu.
Treated as sing.) Game played with these on grass. 3 spell or turn of bowling in
cricket. —v. 1 a roll (a ball etc.). B play bowls. 2 (also absol.) Cricket etc. A
deliver (a ball, over, etc.). B (often foll. By out) dismiss (a batsman) by knocking
down the wicket with a ball. 3 (often foll. By along) go along rapidly. bowl out
cricket etc. Dismiss (a batsman or a side). Bowl over 1 knock down. 2 colloq.
Impress greatly, overwhelm. [latin bulla bubble]
Bowler2 n. (in full bowler hat) man’s hard round felt hat. [bowler, name of a
hatter]
Bowline n. 1 rope from a ship’s bow keeping the sail taut against the wind. 2
knot forming a non-slipping loop at the end of a rope.
Bowman n. Archer.
Box1 —n. 1 container, usu. Flat-sided and firm. 2 amount contained in a box. 3
compartment, e.g. In a theatre or lawcourt. 4 receptacle or kiosk for a special
purpose (often in comb.: money box; telephone box). 5 facility at a newspaper
office for receiving replies to an advertisement. 6 (prec. By the) colloq.
Television. 7 enclosed area or space. 8 area of print enclosed by a border. 9 light
shield for the genitals in cricket etc. 10 (prec. By the) football colloq. Penalty
area. —v. 1 put in or provide with a box. 2 (foll. By in, up) confine. [latin buxis:
related to *box3]
Box2 —v. 1 a take part in boxing. B fight (an opponent) at boxing. 2 slap (esp.
A person’s ears). —n. Hard slap, esp. On the ears. [origin unknown]
Box3 n. 1 small evergreen tree with dark green leaves. 2 its fine hard wood.
[latin buxus, greek puxos]
Box and cox n. Two people sharing accommodation etc. In shifts. [names of
characters in a play (1847)]
Boxing day n. First weekday after christmas. [from *box1, from the custom of
giving christmas-boxes]
Box junction n. Road area marked with a yellow grid, which a vehicle should
enter only if its exit is clear.
enter only if its exit is clear.
Boxwood n. = *box3 2.
Boy —n. 1 male child, son. 2 young man. 3 male servant etc. —int. Expressing
pleasure, surprise, etc. boyhood n. Boyish adj. [origin uncertain]
Boyo n. (pl. -s) welsh & ir. Colloq. (esp. As a form of address) boy, mate.
Bq abbr. Becquerel.
Br symb. Bromine.
Brace —n. 1 device that clamps or fastens tightly. 2 timber etc. Strengthening a
framework. 3 (in pl.) Straps supporting trousers from the shoulders. 4 wire
device for straightening the teeth. 5 (pl. Same) pair (esp. Of game). 6 rope for
trimming a sail. 7 connecting mark { or } in printing. —v. (-cing) 1 make steady
by supporting. 2 fasten tightly to make firm. 3 (esp. As bracing adj.) Invigorate,
refresh. 4 (often refl.) Prepare for a difficulty, shock, etc. [latin bracchia arms]
Brace and bit n. Revolving tool for boring, with a d-shaped central handle.
Brachiosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) plant-eating dinosaur with forelegs longer than its
hind legs. [latin from greek brakhion arm, sauros lizard]
Bracket —n. 1 (esp. Angled) support projecting from a vertical surface. 2 shelf
fixed to a wall with this. 3 each of a pair of marks () [] {} enclosing words or
figures. 4 group or classification (income bracket). —v. (-t-) 1 enclose in
brackets. 2 group or classify together. [latin bracae breeches]
Brackish adj. (of water etc.) Slightly salty. [low german or dutch]
Bract n. Leaflike and often brightly coloured part of a plant, growing before the
flower. [latin bractea thin sheet]
Brad n. Thin flat nail with a head on only one side. [old norse]
Brag —v. (-gg-) talk boastfully. —n. 1 card-game like poker. 2 boastful
statement or talk. [origin unknown]
Brahman n. (also brahman) (pl. -s) 1 (also brahmin) member of the highest or
priestly hindu caste. 2 = *brahma 2. brahmanic adj. Brahmanism n.
Braille —n. System of writing and printing for the blind, with patterns of raised
dots. —v. (-ling) print or transcribe in braille. [braille, name of its inventor]
Brain —n. 1 organ of soft nervous tissue in the skull of vertebrates, the centre of
sensation and of intellectual and nervous activity. 2 a colloq. Intelligent person.
B (often in pl.) Intelligence. 3 (usu. In pl.; prec. By the) colloq. Cleverest person
in a group; mastermind. 4 electronic device functioning like a brain. —v. 1 dash
out the brains of. 2 colloq. Strike hard on the head. on the brain colloq.
Obsessively in one’s thoughts. [old english]
Braise v. (-sing) stew slowly with a little liquid in a closed container. [french
braise live coals]
Brake1 —n. 1 (often in pl.) Device for stopping or slowing a wheel, vehicle, etc.
2 thing that impedes. —v. (-king) 1 apply a brake. 2 slow or stop with a brake.
[probably obsolete brake = curb]
Brake3 —n. 1 toothed instrument for crushing flax and hemp. 2 (in full brake
harrow) heavy harrow. —v. (-king) crush (flax or hemp). [low german or dutch:
related to *break]
Brake drum n. Cylinder attached to a wheel, on which the brake shoes press to
brake.
Brake shoe n. Long curved block which presses on a brake drum to brake.
Bramble n. Wild thorny shrub, esp. The blackberry. brambly adj. [old english]
Brand —n. 1 a particular make of goods. B identifying trade mark, label, etc. 2
(usu. Foll. By of) characteristic kind (brand of humour). 3 identifying mark
burned esp. On livestock. 4 iron used for this. 5 piece of burning or charred
wood. 6 stigma; mark of disgrace. 7 poet. Torch. —v. 1 mark with a hot iron. 2
stigmatize (branded him a liar). 3 impress unforgettably. 4 assign a trademark
etc. To. [old english]
Brandy n. (pl. -ies) strong alcoholic spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit
juice. [dutch brandewijn]
Brass —n. 1 yellow alloy of copper and zinc. 2 brass objects collectively. 3 brass
wind instruments. 4 slang money. 5 brass memorial tablet. 6 colloq. Effrontery.
—adj. Made of brass. brassed off slang fed up. [old english]
Brasserie n. Restaurant, orig. One serving beer with food. [french brasser brew]
Brass monkey n. Coarse slang used in various phrases to indicate extreme cold.
Brassy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like brass. 2 impudent. 3 vulgarly showy. 4 loud
and blaring.
Brave —adj. 1 able or ready to face and endure danger, disgrace, or pain. 2
formal splendid, spectacular. —n. American indian warrior. —v. (-ving) face
bravely or defiantly. bravely adv. Braveness n. Bravery n. [ultimately latin
barbarus barbarian]
Bravo —int. Expressing approval. —n. (pl. -s) cry of ‘bravo’. [french from
italian]
Brawl —n. Noisy quarrel or fight. —v. 1 engage in a brawl. 2 (of a stream) run
noisily. [provençal]
Brawn n. 1 muscular strength. 2 muscle; lean flesh. 3 jellied meat made from a
pig’s head. brawny adj. (-ier, -iest). [french from germanic]
Bray —n. 1 cry of a donkey. 2 harsh sound like this. —v. 1 make a bray. 2 utter
harshly. [french braire]
Braze v. (-zing) solder with an alloy of brass and zinc. [french braser]
Brazier1 n. Metal pan or stand holding burning coals etc. [french: related to
*braise]
Brazil n. 1 tall s. American tree. 2 (in full brazil nut) its large three-sided nut.
[brazil in s. America]
Bread —n. 1 baked dough of flour and water, usu. Leavened with yeast. 2
necessary food. 3 slang money. —v. Coat with breadcrumbs for cooking. [old
english]
Bread and butter —n. One’s livelihood. —attrib. Adj. (bread-and-butter) done or
produced to earn a basic living.
Breadboard n. 1 board for cutting bread on. 2 board for making an experimental
model of an electric circuit.
Breadcrumb n. Small fragment of bread, esp. (in pl.) For use in cooking.
Break —v. (past broke; past part. Broken) 1 a separate into pieces under a blow
or strain; shatter. B make or become inoperative. C break a bone in or dislocate
(part of the body). 2 a interrupt (broke our journey). B have an interval (broke
for tea). 3 fail to keep (a law, promise, etc.). 4 a make or become subdued or
weak; (cause to) yield; destroy. B weaken the effect of (a fall, blow, etc.). C =
break in 3c. 5 surpass (a record). 6 (foll. By with) end a friendship with (a person
etc.). 7 a be no longer subject to (a habit). B (foll. By of) free (a person) from a
habit (broke them of their addiction). 8 reveal or be revealed (broke the news;
story broke). 9 a (of fine weather) change suddenly. B (of waves) curl over and
foam. C (of the day) dawn. D (of clouds) move apart. E (of a storm) begin
violently. 10 electr. Disconnect (a circuit). 11 a (of the voice) change with
emotion. B (of a boy’s voice) change at puberty. 12 a (often foll. By up) divide
(a set etc.). B change (a banknote etc.) For coins. 13 ruin financially (see also
*broke adj.). 14 penetrate (e.g. A safe) by force. 15 decipher (a code). 16 make
(a way, path, etc.) By force. 17 burst forth (sun broke through). 18 a (of troops)
disperse in confusion. B rupture (ranks). 19 a (usu. Foll.
Break-dancing n. Acrobatic style of street-dancing.
Breaker n. 1 heavy breaking wave. 2 person or thing that breaks something, esp.
Disused machinery.
Breaking and entering n. (formerly) the illegal entering of a building with intent
to commit a felony.
Breakup n. 1 disintegration or collapse. 2 dispersal.
Bream n. (pl. Same) 1 yellowish arch-backed freshwater fish. 2 (in full sea
bream) similar marine fish. [french from germanic]
Breastbone n. Thin flat vertical bone in the chest between the ribs.
Breath n. 1 a air drawn into or expelled from the lungs. B one respiration of air.
C breath as perceived by the senses. 2 a slight movement of air. B whiff (of
perfume etc.). 3 whisper, murmur (esp. Of scandal). catch one’s breath 1 cease
breathing momentarily in surprise etc. 2 rest to restore normal breathing. Hold
one’s breath cease breathing temporarily. Out of breath gasping for air, esp.
After exercise. Take one’s breath away surprise, delight, etc. Under one’s breath
in a whisper. [old english]
Breathe v. (-thing) 1 draw air into and expel it from the lungs. 2 be or seem
alive. 3 a utter or sound (esp. Quietly). B express (breathed defiance). 4 pause. 5
send out or take in (as if) with the breath (breathed new life into them; breathed
whisky). 6 (of wine etc.) Be exposed to the air. breathe again (or freely) feel
relief.
Breather n. 1 colloq. Brief pause for rest. 2 brief period in the fresh air.
Breathless adj. 1 panting, out of breath. 2 holding the breath. 3 still, windless.
breathlessly adv.
Breath test n. Test with a breathalyser.
Breech birth n. (also breech delivery) delivery of a baby with the buttocks or feet
foremost.
Breeches buoy n. Lifebuoy with canvas breeches for the user’s legs.
Breed —v. (past and past part. Bred) 1 (of animals) produce young. 2 propagate;
raise (animals). 3 yield; result in. 4 arise; spread. 5 bring up; train. 6 create
(fissile material) by nuclear reaction. —n. 1 stock of similar animals or plants
within a species, usu. Developed by deliberate selection. 2 race; lineage. 3 sort,
kind. breeder n. [old english]
Breeze1 —n. 1 gentle wind. 2 colloq. Quarrel. 3 esp. Us colloq. Easy task. —v.
Breeze1 —n. 1 gentle wind. 2 colloq. Quarrel. 3 esp. Us colloq. Easy task. —v.
(-zing) (foll. By in, out, along, etc.) Colloq. Saunter casually. [probably spanish
and portuguese briza]
Breeze-block n. Lightweight building block, esp. Of breeze mixed with sand and
cement.
Breezy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 slightly windy. 2 colloq. Cheerful, light-hearted, casual.
Breviary n. (pl. -ies) book containing the roman catholic daily office. [latin:
related to *brief]
related to *brief]
Brew —v. 1 a make (beer etc.) By infusion, boiling, and fermentation. B make
(tea etc.) By infusion. 2 undergo these processes. 3 gather force; threaten (storm
is brewing). 4 concoct (a plan etc.). —n. 1 liquid or amount brewed; concoction.
2 process of brewing. brew up make tea. brewer n. [old english]
Bribe —v. (-bing) (often foll. By to + infin.) Persuade to act improperly in one’s
favour by a gift of money etc. —n. Money or services offered in bribing. bribery
n. [french briber beg]
Brick —n. 1 a small usu. Rectangular block of fired or sun-dried clay used in
Brick —n. 1 a small usu. Rectangular block of fired or sun-dried clay used in
building. B material of this. 2 child’s toy block. 3 brick-shaped thing. 4 slang
generous or loyal person. —v. (foll. By in, up) close or block with brickwork. —
adj. 1 built of brick (brick wall). 2 (also brick-red) dull red. [low german or
dutch]
Bricklayer n. Person who builds with bricks, esp. For a living. bricklaying n.
Bride n. Woman on her wedding day and during the period just before and after
it. [old english]
Bridegroom n. Man on his wedding day and during the period just before and
after it. [old english]
Bridesmaid n. Girl or unmarried woman attending a bride at her wedding.
Bridge1 —n. 1 a structure providing a way across a river, road, railway, etc. B
thing joining or connecting. 2 operational superstructure on a ship. 3 upper bony
part of the nose. 4 piece of wood on a violin etc. Over which the strings are
stretched. 5 = *bridgework. —v. (-ging) 1 be or make a bridge over. 2 reduce (a
gap, deficiency, etc.). [old english]
Bridging loan n. Loan to cover the interval between buying a house etc. And
selling another.
Bridle —n. 1 headgear for controlling a horse, including reins and bit. 2
restraining thing. —v. (-ling) 1 put a bridle on. 2 curb, restrain. 3 (often foll. By
up) express anger, offence, etc., esp. By throwing up the head and drawing in the
chin. [old english]
Brief —adj. 1 of short duration. 2 concise; abrupt, brusque. 3 scanty (brief skirt).
—n. 1 (in pl.) Short pants. 2 a summary of a case drawn up for counsel. B piece
of work for a barrister. 3 instructions for a task. 4 papal letter on discipline. —v.
1 instruct (a barrister) by brief. 2 inform or instruct in advance. hold a brief for
argue in favour of. In brief to sum up. briefly adv. Briefness n. [latin brevis
short]
Brier1 n. (also briar) wild rose or other prickly bush. [old english]
Brier2 n. (also briar) 1 white heath of s. Europe. 2 tobacco pipe made from its
root. [french bruyère]
Brilliantine n. Dressing for making the hair glossy. [french: related to *brilliant]
Brim —n. 1 edge or lip of a vessel. 2 projecting edge of a hat. —v. (-mm-) fill or
be full to the brim. brim over overflow. [origin unknown]
Brindled adj. (esp. Of domestic animals) brown or tawny with streaks of another
colour. [scandinavian]
Brine n. 1 water saturated or strongly impregnated with salt. 2 sea water. [old
english]
Bring v. (past and past part. Brought) 1 come carrying; lead, accompany;
convey. 2 cause or result in (war brings misery). 3 be sold for; produce as
income. 4 a prefer (a charge). B initiate (legal action). 5 cause to become or to
reach a state (brings me alive; cannot bring myself to agree). 6 adduce (evidence,
an argument, etc.). bring about cause to happen. Bring back call to mind. Bring
down 1 cause to fall. 2 lower (a price). Bring forth 1 give birth to. 2 cause. Bring
forward 1 move to an earlier time. 2 transfer from the previous page or account.
3 draw attention to. Bring home to cause to realize fully. Bring the house down
receive rapturous applause. Bring in 1 introduce. 2 yield as income or profit.
Bring off achieve successfully. Bring on cause to happen, appear, or make
progress. Bring out 1 emphasize; make evident. 2 publish. Bring over convert to
progress. Bring out 1 emphasize; make evident. 2 publish. Bring over convert to
one’s own side. Bring round 1 restore to consciousness. 2 persuade. Bring
through aid (a person) through adversity, esp. Illness. Bring to restore to
consciousness (brought him to). Bring up 1 rear (a child). 2 vomit. 3 call
attention to. 4 (absol.) Stop suddenly. [old english]
Bring-and-buy sale n. Charity sale at which people bring items for sale and buy
those brought by others.
Brink n. 1 extreme edge of land before a precipice, river, etc. 2 furthest point
before danger, discovery, etc. on the brink of about to experience or suffer; in
imminent danger of. [old norse]
Briny —adj. (-ier, -iest) of brine or the sea; salty. —n. (prec. By the) slang the
sea.
Brisk —adj. 1 quick, lively, keen (brisk pace, trade). 2 enlivening (brisk wind).
—v. (often foll. By up) make or grow brisk. briskly adv. Briskness n. [probably
french *brusque]
Bristle —n. Short stiff hair, esp. One on an animal’s back, used in brushes. —v.
(-ling) 1 a (of hair) stand upright. B make (hair) do this. 2 show irritation. 3 (usu.
Foll. By with) be covered or abundant (in). bristly adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english]
British —adj. Of great britain, the british commonwealth, or their people. —n.
(prec. By the; treated as pl.) The british people. [old english]
British legion n. = *royal british legion.
British thermal unit n. Amount of heat needed to raise 1 lb of water through one
degree fahrenheit, equivalent to 1.055 x 103 joules.
Brittle adj. Hard and fragile; apt to break. brittlely adv. (also brittly). [old
english]
Broach —v. 1 raise for discussion. 2 pierce (a cask) to draw liquor. 3 open and
start using. —n. 1 bit for boring. 2 roasting-spit. [latin broccus projecting]
Broad —adj. 1 large in extent from one side to the other; wide. 2 in breadth (two
metres broad). 3 extensive (broad acres). 4 full and clear (broad daylight). 5
explicit (broad hint). 6 general (broad intentions, facts). 7 tolerant, liberal (broad
view). 8 coarse (broad humour). 9 markedly regional (broad scots). —n. 1 broad
part (broad of the back). 2 us slang woman. 3 (the broads) large areas of water in
e. Anglia, formed where rivers widen. broadly adv. Broadness n. [old english]
Broad bean n. 1 bean with large edible flat seeds. 2 one such seed.
Broad bean n. 1 bean with large edible flat seeds. 2 one such seed.
Broadcast —v. (past and past part. Broadcast) 1 transmit by radio or television. 2
take part in such a transmission. 3 scatter (seed etc.). 4 disseminate (information)
widely. —n. Radio or television programme or transmission. broadcaster n.
Broadcasting n.
Broadside n. 1 vigorous verbal attack. 2 simultaneous firing of all guns from one
side of a ship. 3 side of a ship above the water between the bow and quarter.
side of a ship. 3 side of a ship above the water between the bow and quarter.
broadside on sideways on.
Brocade —n. Rich fabric woven with a raised pattern. —v. (-ding) weave in this
way. [italian brocco twisted thread]
Broil v. Esp. Us 1 grill (meat). 2 make or become very hot, esp. From the sun.
[french bruler burn]
Broken past part. Of *break. —adj. 1 having been broken. 2 reduced to despair;
beaten. 3 (of language) badly spoken, esp. By a foreigner. 4 interrupted (broken
sleep).
Bromine n. Poisonous liquid element with a choking smell. [greek bromos stink]
Bronchial adj. Of the bronchi (see *bronchus) or of the smaller tubes into which
they divide.
Bronchus n. (pl. -chi) either of the two main divisions of the windpipe. [latin
from greek]
Bronco n. (pl. -s) wild or half-tamed horse of the western us. [spanish, = rough]
Brontosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) large plant-eating dinosaur with a long whiplike tail.
[greek bronte thunder, sauros lizard]
Bronze —n. 1 alloy of copper and tin. 2 its brownish colour. 3 thing of bronze,
esp. A sculpture. —adj. Made of or coloured like bronze. —v. (-zing) make or
become brown; tan. [french from italian]
Bronze age n. Archaeol. Period when weapons and tools were usu. Made of
bronze.
bronze.
Brood —n. 1 young of esp. A bird born or hatched at one time. 2 colloq.
Children in a family. —v. 1 worry or ponder (esp. Resentfully). 2 (of a bird) sit
on eggs to hatch them. [old english]
Broody adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a hen) wanting to brood. 2 sullenly thoughtful. 3
colloq. (of a woman) wanting pregnancy.
Brow n. 1 forehead. 2 eyebrow. 3 summit of a hill etc. 4 edge of a cliff etc. [old
english]
Brown —adj. 1 having the colour of dark wood or rich soil. 2 dark-skinned or
suntanned. 3 (of bread) made from wholemeal or wheatmeal flour. —n. 1 brown
colour or pigment. 2 brown clothes or material. —v. Make or become brown.
browned off colloq. Fed up, disheartened.
Brownie n. 1 (in full brownie guide) junior guide. 2 (brownie) small square of
chocolate cake with nuts. 3 (brownie) benevolent elf.
Brownie point n. Colloq. Notional mark awarded for good conduct etc.
Brown owl n. 1 any of various owls, esp. The tawny owl. 2 (brown owl) adult
leader of brownie guides.
Browse —v. (-sing) 1 read desultorily or look over goods for sale. 2 (often foll.
By on) feed on leaves, twigs, etc. —n. 1 twigs, shoots, etc. As fodder. 2 act of
browsing. [french brost bud]
Bruise —n. 1 discolouration of the skin caused esp. By a blow. 2 similar damage
on a fruit etc. —v. (-sing) 1 a inflict a bruise on. B hurt mentally. 2 be
susceptible to bruising. [originally = crush, from old english]
Brunt n. Chief impact of an attack, task, etc. (esp. Bear the brunt of). [origin
unknown]
Brush —n. 1 implement with bristles, hair, wire, etc. Set into a block, for
cleaning, painting, arranging the hair, etc. 2 act of brushing. 3 (usu. Foll. By
with) short esp. Unpleasant encounter. 4 fox’s bushy tail. 5 piece of carbon or
metal as an electrical contact esp. With a moving part. 6 = *brushwood 2. —v. 1
sweep, scrub, treat, or tidy with a brush. 2 remove or apply with a brush. 3 graze
in passing. brush aside dismiss curtly or lightly. Brush off dismiss abruptly.
Brush up 1 clean up or smarten. 2 revise (a subject). [french]
Brutal adj. 1 savagely cruel. 2 harsh, merciless. brutality n. (pl. -ies). Brutally
adv. [french: related to *brute]
Bryony n. (pl. -ies) climbing plant with red berries. [latin from greek]
Bubble —n. 1 a thin sphere of liquid enclosing air etc. B air-filled cavity in a
liquid or solidified liquid. 2 transparent domed canopy. 3 visionary or unrealistic
project. —v. (-ling) 1 rise in or send up bubbles. 2 make the sound of boiling.
bubble over (often foll. By with) be exuberant. [imitative]
Bubble and squeak n. Cooked cabbage etc. Fried with cooked potatoes.
Bubbly —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having or like bubbles. 2 exuberant. —n. Colloq.
Champagne.
Bubo n. (pl. -es) inflamed swelling in the armpit or groin. [greek boubon groin]
Buck1 —n. 1 male deer, hare, rabbit, etc. 2 archaic dandy. 3 (attrib.) Slang male.
—v. 1 (of a horse) jump upwards with its back arched. 2 (usu. Foll. By off)
throw (a rider) in this way. 3 (usu. Foll. By up) colloq. A cheer up. B hurry up;
make an effort. [old english]
Buck3 n. Slang (in poker) article placed before the next dealer. pass the buck
colloq. Shift responsibility (to another). [origin unknown]
Bucket —n. 1 a round open container with a handle, for carrying or drawing
water etc. B amount contained in this. 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Large quantities, esp. Of
rain or tears. 3 scoop in a water wheel, dredger, etc. —v. (-t-) colloq. 1 (often
foll. By down) (esp. Of rain) pour heavily. 2 (often foll. By along) move or drive
fast or bumpily. [anglo-french]
Bucket seat n. Seat with a rounded back for one person, esp. In a car.
Buckle —n. Clasp with a hinged pin for securing a belt, strap, etc. —v. (-ling) 1
(often foll. By up, on, etc.) Fasten with a buckle. 2 (often foll. By up) (cause to)
crumple under pressure. buckle down make a determined effort. [latin buccula
cheek-strap]
Buckram n. Coarse linen etc. Stiffened with paste etc. [french boquerant]
Buck’s fizz n. Cocktail of champagne and orange juice. [buck’s club in london]
Buckskin n. 1 leather from a buck’s skin. 2 thick smooth cotton or woollen cloth.
Bucolic —adj. Of shepherds; rustic, pastoral. —n. (usu. In pl.) Pastoral poem or
Bucolic —adj. Of shepherds; rustic, pastoral. —n. (usu. In pl.) Pastoral poem or
poetry. [greek boukolos herdsman]
Bud —n. 1 a knoblike shoot from which a stem, leaf, or flower develops. B
flower or leaf not fully open. 2 asexual outgrowth from an organism separating
to form a new individual. —v. (-dd-) 1 form buds. 2 begin to grow or develop
(budding artist). 3 graft a bud of (a plant) on to another. [origin unknown]
Buddha n. 1 title of the indian philosopher gautama (5th c. Bc) and his
successors. 2 sculpture etc. Of buddha. [sanskrit, = enlightened]
Buddy —n. (pl. -ies) esp. Us colloq. Friend or mate. [perhaps from *brother]
Budge v. (-ging) (usu. With neg.) 1 move slightly. 2 (cause to) change an
opinion. budge up (or over) make room for another person by moving. [french
bouger]
Buff —adj. Of a yellowish beige colour (buff envelope). —n. 1 this colour. 2 (in
comb.) Colloq. Enthusiast (railway buff). 3 velvety dull-yellow ox-leather. —v.
1 polish (metal etc.). 2 make (leather) velvety. in the buff colloq. Naked.
[originally = buffalo, from french buffle]
Buffer1 n. 1 thing that deadens impact, esp. A device on a train or at the end of a
track. 2 substance that maintains the constant acidity of a solution. 3 computing
temporary memory area or queue for data. [imitative]
Buffer state n. Small state between two larger ones, regarded as reducing
friction.
Buffet2 —v. (-t-) 1 strike repeatedly. 2 contend with (waves etc.). —n. 1 blow,
esp. Of the hand. 2 shock. [french diminutive of bufe blow]
Bug —n. 1 a any of various insects with mouthparts modified for piercing and
sucking. B esp. Us small insect. 2 slang virus; infection. 3 slang concealed
microphone. 4 slang error in a computer program or system etc. 5 slang
obsession, enthusiasm, etc. —v. (-gg-) 1 slang conceal a microphone in. 2 slang
annoy. [origin unknown]
Buggy n. (pl. -ies) 1 small, sturdy, esp. Open, motor vehicle. 2 lightweight
pushchair. 3 light, horse-drawn vehicle for one or two people. [origin unknown]
pushchair. 3 light, horse-drawn vehicle for one or two people. [origin unknown]
Bugle —n. Brass military instrument like a small trumpet. —v. (-ling) 1 sound a
bugle. 2 sound (a call etc.) On a bugle. bugler n. [latin buculus young bull]
Bugloss n. Plant with bright blue tubular flowers, related to borage. [french
buglosse from greek, = ox-tongued]
Build —v. (past and past part. Built) 1 construct or cause to be constructed. 2 a
(often foll. By up) establish or develop (built the business up). B (often foll. By
on) base (hopes, theories, etc.). 3 (as built adj.) Of specified build (sturdily
built). —n. 1 physical proportions (slim build). 2 style of construction; make.
build in incorporate. Build on add (an extension etc.). Build up 1 increase in size
or strength. 2 praise; boost. 3 gradually become established. [old english]
Bulb n. 1 a globular base of the stem of some plants, sending roots downwards
and leaves upwards. B plant grown from this, e.g. A daffodil. 2 = *light-bulb. 3
object or part shaped like a bulb. [latin bulbus from greek, = onion]
Bulge —n. 1 irregular swelling. 2 colloq. Temporary increase (baby bulge). —v.
(-ging) swell outwards. bulgy adj. [latin bulga bag]
Bulimia n. (in full bulimia nervosa) disorder in which overeating alternates with
self-induced vomiting, fasting, etc. [greek bous ox, limos hunger]
Bulk —n. 1 a size; magnitude (esp. Large). B large mass, body, etc. C large
quantity. 2 (treated as pl. & usu. Prec. By the) greater part or number (the bulk of
the applicants are women). 3 roughage. —v. 1 seem (in size or importance)
(bulks large). 2 make (a book etc.) Thicker etc. in bulk in large quantities. [old
norse]
Bull1 n. 1 a uncastrated male bovine animal. B male of the whale, elephant, etc.
2 (the bull) zodiacal sign or constellation taurus. 3 bull’s-eye of a target. 4
person who buys shares hoping to sell them at a profit. take the bull by the horns
face danger or a challenge boldly. bullish adj. [old norse]
Bulldozer n. Powerful tractor with a broad vertical blade at the front for clearing
ground.
ground.
Bullet n. Small pointed missile fired from a rifle, revolver, etc. [french
diminutive of boule ball]
Bulletin n. 1 short official news report. 2 society’s regular list of information etc.
[italian diminutive: related to *bull2]
Bullshit coarse slang —n. (often as int.) Nonsense; pretended knowledge. —v. (-
tt-) talk nonsense or as if one has specialist knowledge (to). bullshitter n. [from
*bull3]
Bully1 —n. (pl. -ies) person coercing others by fear. —v. (-ies, -ied) persecute or
oppress by force or threats. —int. (foll. By for) often iron. Expressing approval
(bully for you). [dutch]
Bully2 (in full bully off) —n. (pl. -ies) start of play in hockey in which two
opponents strike each other’s sticks three times and then go for the ball. —v. (-
ies, -ied) start play in this way. [origin unknown]
Bully3 n. (in full bully beef) corned beef. [french: related to *boil1]
Bulrush n. 1 a kind of tall rush. 2 bibl. Papyrus. [perhaps from *bull1 = coarse +
*rush2]
Bum2 us slang —n. Loafer or tramp; dissolute person. —v. (-mm-) 1 (often foll.
By around) loaf or wander around. 2 cadge. —attrib. Adj. Of poor quality.
[german bummler loafer]
Bum-bag n. Slang small pouch worn on a belt round the waist or hips.
Bun n. 1 small sweet bread roll or cake, often with dried fruit. 2 hair coiled and
pinned to the head. [origin unknown]
Bunch —n. 1 things gathered together. 2 collection; lot (best of the bunch). 3
colloq. Group; gang. —v. 1 make into a bunch; gather into close folds. 2 form
into a group or crowd. [origin unknown]
Bundle —n. 1 things tied or fastened together. 2 set of nerve fibres etc. 3 slang
large amount of money. —v. (-ling) 1 (usu. Foll. By up) tie or make into a
bundle. 2 (usu. Foll. By into) throw or move carelessly. 3 (usu. Foll. By out, off,
away, etc.) Send away hurriedly. be a bundle of nerves (or fun etc.) Be
extremely nervous (or amusing etc.). Go a bundle on slang admire; like. [low
german or dutch]
Bung —n. Stopper, esp. For a cask. —v. 1 stop with a bung. 2 slang throw.
bunged up blocked up. [dutch]
Bungee n. (in full bungee cord, rope) elasticated cord or rope used for securing
baggage or in bungee jumping.
Bunk2 slang —v. (often foll. By off) play truant (from). —n. (in do a bunk)
leave or abscond hurriedly. [origin unknown]
Bunny n. (pl. -ies) 1 child’s name for a rabbit. 2 (in full bunny girl) club hostess,
waitress, etc., wearing rabbit ears and tail. [dial. Bun rabbit]
Buoy —n. 1 anchored float as a navigation mark etc. 2 lifebuoy. —v. 1 (usu.
Foll. By up) a keep afloat. B encourage, uplift. 2 (often foll. By out) mark with a
buoy. [dutch, perhaps from latin boia collar]
Burden —n. 1 load, esp. A heavy one. 2 oppressive duty, expense, emotion, etc.
3 bearing of loads (beast of burden). 4 a refrain of a song. B chief theme of a
speech, book, etc. —v. Load with a burden; oppress. burdensome adj. [old
english: related to *birth]
Burdock n. Plant with prickly flowers and docklike leaves. [from bur, dock3]
Bureau n. (pl. -x or -s) 1 a desk with drawers and usu. An angled hinged top. B
us chest of drawers. 2 a office or department for specific business. B government
department. [french, originally = baize]
Buret n. (brit. Burette) graduated glass tube with an end-tap for measuring liquid
in chemical analysis. [french]
Burette n. (us buret) graduated glass tube with an end-tap for measuring liquid in
chemical analysis. [french]
Burglary n. (pl. -ies) 1 illegal entry with intent to commit theft, do bodily harm,
or do damage. 2 instance of this.
Usage before 1968 in english law, burglary was a crime under statute and
common law; since 1968 it has been a statutory crime only; cf. *housebreaking.
Burgundy n. (pl. -ies) 1 (also burgundy) a red or white wine from burgundy in e.
France. B hist. Similar wine from elsewhere. 2 dark red colour of this.
Burn1 —v. (past and past part. Burnt or burned) 1 (cause to) be consumed or
destroyed by fire. 2 blaze or glow with fire. 3 (cause to) be injured or damaged
by fire, heat, radiation, acid, etc. 4 use or be used as fuel etc. 5 char in cooking. 6
produce (a hole, mark, etc.) By fire or heat. 7 a heat (clay, chalk, etc.). B harden
(bricks) by fire. 8 colour, tan, or parch with heat or light. 9 (be) put to death by
fire. 10 cauterize, brand. 11 make, be, or feel hot, esp. Painfully. 12 (often foll.
By with) (cause to) feel great emotion or passion (burn with shame). 13 slang
drive fast. —n. Mark or injury caused by burning. burn one’s boats (or bridges)
commit oneself irrevocably. Burn the candle at both ends work etc. Excessively.
Burner n. Part of a gas cooker, lamp, etc. That emits the flame.
Burn-out n. Exhaustion. burnt-out adj.
Burp colloq. —v. 1 belch. 2 make (a baby) belch. —n. Belch. [imitative]
Burr —n. 1 a whirring sound. B rough sounding of the letter r. 2 (also bur) a
rough edge on metal or paper. B surgeon’s or dentist’s small drill. 3 var. Of *bur
1, 2. —v. Make a burr. [imitative]
Burrow —n. Hole or tunnel dug by a rabbit etc. As a dwelling or shelter. —v. 1
make a burrow. 2 make (a hole, one’s way, etc.) (as) by digging. 3 (foll. By into)
investigate, search. [apparently var. Of *borough]
Bursary n. (pl. -ies) grant, esp. A scholarship. [medieval latin: related to *bursar]
Burst —v. (past and past part. Burst) 1 (cause to) break violently apart; open
forcibly from within. 2 a (usu. Foll. By in, out) make one’s way suddenly or by
force. B break away from or through (river burst its banks). 3 be full to
overflowing. 4 appear or come suddenly (burst into flame). 5 (foll. By into)
suddenly begin to shed (tears) or utter. 6 seem about to burst from effort,
excitement, etc. —n. 1 act of bursting. 2 sudden issue or outbreak (burst of
flame; burst of applause). 3 sudden effort, spurt. burst out 1 suddenly begin
(burst out laughing). 2 exclaim. [old english]
Bury v. (-ies, -ied) 1 place (a corpse) in the earth, a tomb, or the sea. 2 lose by
death (buried two sons). 3 a put or hide under ground. B cover up; conceal. 4
consign to obscurity; forget. 5 (refl. Or passive) involve deeply (buried in a
book). bury the hatchet cease to quarrel. [old english]
Bus —n. (pl. Buses or us busses) 1 large esp. Public passenger vehicle, usu.
Travelling a fixed route. 2 colloq. Car, aeroplane, etc. —v. (buses or busses,
bussed, bussing) 1 go by bus. 2 us transport by bus, esp. To aid racial
integration. [abbreviation of *omnibus]
Busby n. (pl. -ies) tall fur hat worn by hussars etc. [origin unknown]
Bush1 n. 1 shrub or clump of shrubs. 2 thing like a bush, esp. A clump of hair. 3
(esp. In australia and africa) uncultivated area; woodland or forest. [old english
and old norse]
Bush2 —n. 1 metal lining for a hole enclosing a revolving shaft etc. 2 sleeve
giving electrical insulation. —v. Fit with a bush. [dutch busse box]
Bushel n. Measure of capacity for corn, fruit, etc. (8 gallons or 36.4 litres).
[french]
Bushy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 growing thickly like a bush. 2 having many bushes.
Busk v. Perform esp. Music in the street etc. For tips. busker n. [obsolete busk
peddle]
Bust2 —v. (past and past part. Busted or bust) colloq. 1 break, burst. 2 a raid,
search. B arrest. —adj. (also busted) 1 broken, burst. 2 bankrupt. bust up 1
collapse. 2 (esp. Of a married couple) separate. [var. Of *burst]
Bustard n. Large land bird that can run very fast. [latin avis tarda slow bird
(‘slow’ unexplained)]
Bustle1 —v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By about) (cause to) move busily and
energetically. 2 (as bustling adj.) Active, lively. —n. Excited or energetic
activity. [perhaps from obsolete busk prepare]
Bustle2 n. Hist. Padding worn under a skirt to puff it out behind. [origin
unknown]
Busy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 occupied or engaged in work etc. 2 full of activity;
fussy (busy evening, street; busy design). 3 esp. Us (of a telephone line)
engaged. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often refl.) Keep busy; occupy. busily adv. [old
english]
Busy lizzie n. Plant with abundant esp. Red, pink, or white flowers.
But —conj. 1 a nevertheless, however (tried but failed). B on the other hand; on
the contrary (i am old but you are young). 2 except, otherwise than (cannot
choose but do it; what could we do but run?). 3 without the result that (it never
rains but it pours). —prep. Except; apart from; other than (all cried but me;
nothing but trouble). —adv. 1 only; no more than; only just (we can but try; is
but a child; had but arrived). 2 in emphatic repetition; definitely (would see
nobody, but nobody). —rel. Pron. Who not; that not (not a man but feels pity).
—n. Objection (ifs and buts). but for without the help or hindrance etc. Of (but
for you i’d be rich). But one (or two etc.) Excluding one (or two etc.) From the
number (next door but one; last but one). But then however (i won, but then i am
older). [old english]
Butchery n. (pl. -ies) 1 needless or cruel slaughter (of people). 2 butcher’s trade.
Butt1 —v. 1 push or strike with the head or horns. 2 (cause to) meet edge to
edge. —n. 1 push with the head. 2 join of two edges. butt in interrupt, meddle.
[french from germanic]
Butt2 n. 1 (often foll. By of) object of ridicule etc. 2 a mound behind a target. B
(in pl.) Shooting-range. [french but goal]
Butt3 n. 1 thicker end, esp. Of a tool or weapon. 2 stub of a cigarette etc. 3 esp.
Us slang buttocks. [dutch]
Butter-cream n. Mixture of butter, icing sugar, etc., as a filling etc. For a cake.
Butterfly n. (pl. -flies) 1 insect with four usu. Brightly coloured wings. 2 (in pl.)
Colloq. Nervous sensation in the stomach.
Butterfly stroke n. Stroke in swimming, with arms raised and lifted forwards
together.
Butter-icing n. = *butter-cream.
Buttery1 n. (pl. -ies) food store, esp. In a college; snack-bar etc. [related to
*butt4]
Buttock n. 1 each of the two fleshy protuberances at the rear of the human trunk.
2 corresponding part of an animal. [butt ridge]
Buttonhole —n. 1 slit in cloth for a button. 2 flower etc. Worn in a lapel
buttonhole. —v. (-ling) colloq. Accost and detain (a reluctant listener).
Buttress —n. 1 projecting support built against a wall. 2 source of help etc. —v.
(often foll. By up) 1 support with a buttress. 2 support by argument etc.
(buttressed by facts). [related to *butt1]
Butyl n. The univalent alkyl radical c4h9. [latin butyrum *butter]
Buxom adj. (esp. Of a woman) plump and rosy; busty. [earlier = pliant: related
to *bow2]
Buy —v. (buys, buying; past and past part. Bought) 1 a obtain for money etc. B
serve to obtain (money can’t buy happiness; the best that money can buy). 2 a
procure by bribery etc. B bribe. 3 get by sacrifice etc. 4 slang believe in, accept.
5 be a buyer for a store etc. —n. Colloq. Purchase. buy in buy a stock of. Buy
into pay for a share in (an enterprise). Buy off pay to get rid of. Buy oneself out
obtain one’s release (esp. From the armed services) by payment. Buy out pay (a
person) for ownership, an interest, etc. Buy up 1 buy as much as possible of. 2
absorb (a firm etc.) By purchase. [old english]
Buyer n. 1 person employed to purchase stock for a large store etc. 2 purchaser,
customer.
By —prep. 1 near, beside (sit by me; path by the river). 2 through the agency or
means of (by proxy; poem by donne; by bus; by cheating; divide by two; killed
by robbers). 3 not later than (by next week). 4 a past, beyond (drove by the
church). B through; via (went by paris). 5 during (by day; by daylight). 6 to the
extent of (missed by a foot; better by far). 7 according to; using as a standard or
unit (judge by appearances; paid by the hour). 8 with the succession of (worse by
the minute; day by day). 9 concerning; in respect of (did our duty by them; smith
by name). 10 used in mild oaths (by god). 11 expressing dimensions of an area
etc. (three feet by two). 12 avoiding, ignoring (passed us by). 13 inclining to
(north by north-west). —adv. 1 near (sat by). 2 aside; in reserve (put £5 by). 3
past (marched by). —n. (pl. Byes) = *bye1. by and by before long; eventually.
By and large on the whole. By the by (or bye) incidentally. By oneself 1 a
unaided. B unprompted. 2 alone. [old english]
Bye1 n. 1 cricket run scored from a ball that passes the batsman without being
hit. 2 status of an unpaired competitor in a sport, who proceeds to the next round
by default. [from *by as a noun]
Bygone —adj. Past, antiquated. —n. (in phr. Let bygones be bygones) forgive
and forget past quarrels.
Byline n. 1 line naming the writer of a newspaper article etc. 2 secondary line of
work. 3 goal-line or touchline.
Bypass —n. 1 main road passing round a town or its centre. 2 a secondary
channel or pipe etc. Used in emergencies. B alternative passage for the
circulation of blood through the heart. —v. Avoid, go round (a town, difficulty,
etc.).
Byssinosis n. Lung disease caused by textile fibre dust. [greek bussinos made of
linen]
Byte n. Computing group of eight binary digits, often representing one character.
[origin uncertain]
C1 n. (pl. Cs or c’s) 1 (also c) third letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. First note of the
diatonic scale of c major. 3 third hypothetical person or example. 4 third highest
category etc. 5 algebra (usu. C) third known quantity. 6 (as a roman numeral)
100. 7 (also ©) copyright.
C2 symb. Carbon.
C. Abbr. Circa.
Ca symb. Calcium.
Cabinet n. 1 a cupboard or case for storing or displaying things. B casing of a
radio, television, etc. 2 (cabinet) committee of senior ministers in a government.
[diminutive of *cabin]
Cable —n. 1 encased group of insulated wires for transmitting electricity etc. 2
thick rope of wire or hemp. 3 cablegram. 4 (in full cable stitch) knitting stitch
resembling twisted rope. —v. (-ling) transmit (a message) or inform (a person)
by cablegram. [latin caplum halter, from arabic]
Caboodle n. the whole caboodle slang the whole lot. [origin uncertain]
Cabriole n. A kind of esp. 18th-c. Curved table or chair leg. [french: related to
*capriole]
Cacao n. (pl. -s) 1 seed from which cocoa and chocolate are made. 2 tree bearing
these. [spanish from nahuatl]
Cache —n. 1 hiding-place for treasure, stores, guns, etc. 2 things so hidden. —v.
(-ching) put in a cache. [french cacher hide]
Cachou n. Lozenge to sweeten the breath. [portuguese cachu from malay kachu]
Cackle —n. 1 clucking of a hen etc. 2 raucous laugh. 3 noisy chatter. —v. (-ling)
1 emit a cackle. 2 chatter noisily. [imitative]
Cacophony n. (pl. -ies) harsh discordant sound. cacophonous adj. [greek kakos
bad, phone sound]
Cactus n. (pl. -ti or cactuses) plant with a thick fleshy stem and usu. Spines but
Cactus n. (pl. -ti or cactuses) plant with a thick fleshy stem and usu. Spines but
no leaves. [latin from greek]
Caddie (also caddy) —n. (pl. -ies) person who carries a golfer’s clubs during
play. —v. (-ies, -ied, caddying) act as a caddie. [french *cadet]
Cadet n. Young trainee for the armed services or police force. cadetship n.
[french, ultimately from latin caput head]
Caecum n. (us cecum) (pl. -ca) blind-ended pouch at the junction of the small
and large intestines. [latin caecus blind]
Caesura n. (pl. -s) pause in a line of verse. caesural adj. [latin caedo cut]
Caftan n. (also kaftan) 1 long tunic worn by men in the near east. 2 long loose
dress or shirt. [turkish]
Cage —n. 1 structure of bars or wires, esp. For confining animals or birds. 2
similar open framework, esp. A lift in mine etc. —v. (-ging) place or keep in a
cage. [latin cavea]
Cagey adj. (also cagy) (-ier, -iest) colloq. Cautious and non-committal. cagily
adv. Caginess n. [origin unknown]
Cain n. raise cain colloq. = raise the roof. [cain, eldest son of adam (gen. 4)]
Cake —n. 1 mixture of flour, butter, eggs, sugar, etc., baked in the oven and
often iced and decorated. 2 other food in a flat round shape (fish cake). 3 flattish
compact mass (cake of soap). —v. (-king) 1 form into a compact mass. 2 (usu.
Foll. By with) cover (with a hard or sticky mass). have one’s cake and eat it
colloq. Enjoy both of two mutually exclusive alternatives. A piece of cake
colloq. Something easily achieved. Sell (or go) like hot cakes colloq. Be sold (or
colloq. Something easily achieved. Sell (or go) like hot cakes colloq. Be sold (or
go) quickly; be popular. [old norse]
Calamine n. Powdered form of zinc carbonate and ferric oxide used as a skin
lotion. [french from latin]
Calamity n. (pl. -ies) disaster, great misfortune. calamitous adj. [french from
latin]
Calcium n. Soft grey metallic element occurring in limestone, marble, chalk, etc.
[related to *calx]
Calcium hydroxide n. White crystalline powder used in the manufacture of
mortar.
Calcium oxide n. White crystalline solid from which many calcium compounds
are manufactured.
Calendar —n. 1 system fixing the year’s beginning, length, and subdivision. 2
chart etc. Showing such subdivisions. 3 timetable of dates, events, etc. —v.
Enter in a calendar; register (documents). [latin: related to *calends]
Calender —n. Machine in which cloth, paper, etc. Is rolled to glaze or smooth it.
—v. Press in a calender. [french]
Calends n.pl. (also kalends) first of the month in the ancient roman calendar.
[latin kalendae]
Calendula n. Plant with large yellow or orange flowers, esp. The marigold. [latin
diminutive of kalendae]
Calf1 n. (pl. Calves) 1 young cow or bull. 2 young of other animals, e.g. The
elephant, deer, and whale. 3 calfskin. [old english]
Calf2 n. (pl. Calves) fleshy hind part of the human leg below the knee. [old
norse]
Calf-love n. Romantic adolescent love.
Calfskin n. Calf-leather.
Calico —n. (pl. -es or us -s) 1 cotton cloth, esp. Plain white or unbleached. 2 us
printed cotton fabric. —adj. 1 of calico. 2 us multicoloured. [calicut in india]
Caliph n. Esp. Hist. Chief muslim civil and religious ruler. caliphate n. [arabic, =
successor (of muhammad)]
Call —v. 1 a (often foll. By out) cry, shout; speak loudly. B (of a bird etc.) Emit
its characteristic sound. 2 communicate with by telephone or radio. 3 summon. 4
(often foll. By at, in, on) pay a brief visit. 5 order to take place (called a
meeting). 6 name; describe as. 7 regard as (i call that silly). 8 rouse from sleep. 9
(foll. By for) demand. 10 (foll. By on, upon) appeal to (called on us to be quiet).
11 name (a suit) in bidding at cards. 12 guess the outcome of tossing a coin etc.
—n. 1 shout, cry. 2 a characteristic cry of a bird etc. B instrument for imitating
it. 3 brief visit. 4 a act of telephoning. B telephone conversation. 5 a invitation,
summons. B vocation. 6 need, occasion (no call for rudeness). 7 demand (a call
on one’s time). 8 signal on a bugle etc. 9 option of buying stock at a fixed price
at a given date. 10 cards a player’s right or turn to make a bid. B bid made. call
in 1 withdraw from circulation. 2 seek the advice or services of. Call off 1 cancel
(an arrangement). 2 order (an attacker or pursuer) to desist. Call out 1 summon
to action. 2 order (workers) to strike. Call the shots (or tune) colloq. Be in
control; take the initiative. Call up 1 telephone. 2 recall. 3 summon to military
service. On call ready or available if required. [old english from old norse]
Caller n. Person who calls, esp. One who pays a visit or makes a telephone call.
Caller n. Person who calls, esp. One who pays a visit or makes a telephone call.
Calliper n. (also caliper) 1 (in pl.) Compasses for measuring diameters. 2 metal
splint to support the leg. [var. Of *calibre]
Callisthenics n.pl. (also calisthenics) exercises for fitness and grace. callisthenic
adj. [greek kallos beauty, sthenos strength]
Callosity n. (pl. -ies) area of hard thick skin. [latin: related to *callous]
Callus n. (pl. Calluses) 1 area of hard thick skin or tissue. 2 hard tissue formed
round bone ends after a fracture. [latin]
Calm —adj. 1 tranquil, quiet, windless. 2 serene; not agitated. —n. Calm
condition or period. —v. (often foll. By down) make or become calm. calmly
adv. Calmness n. [greek kauma heat]
Calor gas n. Propr. Liquefied butane gas stored under pressure in containers for
domestic use. [latin calor heat]
Calorie n. (pl. -ies) unit of quantity of heat, the amount needed to raise the
temperature of one gram (small calorie) or one kilogram (large calorie) of water
by 1 °c. [latin calor heat]
Calico —n. (pl. -es or us -s) 1 cotton cloth, esp. Plain white or unbleached. 2 us
Calico —n. (pl. -es or us -s) 1 cotton cloth, esp. Plain white or unbleached. 2 us
printed cotton fabric. —adj. 1 of calico. 2 us multicoloured. [calicut in india]
Caliph n. Esp. Hist. Chief muslim civil and religious ruler. caliphate n. [arabic, =
successor (of muhammad)]
Call —v. 1 a (often foll. By out) cry, shout; speak loudly. B (of a bird etc.) Emit
its characteristic sound. 2 communicate with by telephone or radio. 3 summon. 4
(often foll. By at, in, on) pay a brief visit. 5 order to take place (called a
meeting). 6 name; describe as. 7 regard as (i call that silly). 8 rouse from sleep. 9
(foll. By for) demand. 10 (foll. By on, upon) appeal to (called on us to be quiet).
11 name (a suit) in bidding at cards. 12 guess the outcome of tossing a coin etc.
—n. 1 shout, cry. 2 a characteristic cry of a bird etc. B instrument for imitating
it. 3 brief visit. 4 a act of telephoning. B telephone conversation. 5 a invitation,
summons. B vocation. 6 need, occasion (no call for rudeness). 7 demand (a call
on one’s time). 8 signal on a bugle etc. 9 option of buying stock at a fixed price
at a given date. 10 cards a player’s right or turn to make a bid. B bid made. call
in 1 withdraw from circulation. 2 seek the advice or services of. Call off 1 cancel
(an arrangement). 2 order (an attacker or pursuer) to desist. Call out 1 summon
to action. 2 order (workers) to strike. Call the shots (or tune) colloq. Be in
control; take the initiative. Call up 1 telephone. 2 recall. 3 summon to military
service. On call ready or available if required. [old english from old norse]
Caller n. Person who calls, esp. One who pays a visit or makes a telephone call.
Calliper n. (also caliper) 1 (in pl.) Compasses for measuring diameters. 2 metal
splint to support the leg. [var. Of *calibre]
Callisthenics n.pl. (also calisthenics) exercises for fitness and grace. callisthenic
adj. [greek kallos beauty, sthenos strength]
Callosity n. (pl. -ies) area of hard thick skin. [latin: related to *callous]
Callus n. (pl. Calluses) 1 area of hard thick skin or tissue. 2 hard tissue formed
round bone ends after a fracture. [latin]
Calm —adj. 1 tranquil, quiet, windless. 2 serene; not agitated. —n. Calm
condition or period. —v. (often foll. By down) make or become calm. calmly
adv. Calmness n. [greek kauma heat]
Calor gas n. Propr. Liquefied butane gas stored under pressure in containers for
domestic use. [latin calor heat]
Calorie n. (pl. -ies) unit of quantity of heat, the amount needed to raise the
temperature of one gram (small calorie) or one kilogram (large calorie) of water
temperature of one gram (small calorie) or one kilogram (large calorie) of water
by 1 °c. [latin calor heat]
Calx n. (pl. Calces) powdery substance formed when an ore or mineral has been
heated. [latin calx calc-lime]
Calypso n. (pl. -s) w. Indian song with improvised usu. Topical words and a
Calypso n. (pl. -s) w. Indian song with improvised usu. Topical words and a
syncopated rhythm. [origin unknown]
Calyx n. (pl. Calyces or -es) (also calix) 1 sepals forming the protective case of a
flower in bud. 2 cuplike cavity or structure. [greek, = husk]
Camber —n. Convex surface of a road, deck, etc. —v. Build with a camber.
[latin camurus curved]
Cambrian —adj. 1 welsh. 2 geol. Of the first period in the palaeozoic era. —n.
This period. [welsh: related to *cymric]
Cambridge blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) pale blue. [cambridge in
england]
Came past of *come.
Camel n. 1 long-legged ruminant with one hump (arabian camel) or two humps
(bactrian camel). 2 fawn colour. [greek]
Camellia n. Evergreen shrub with shiny leaves and showy flowers. [camellus,
name of a botanist]
Cameo n. (pl. -s) 1 small piece of hard stone carved in relief with a background
of a different colour. 2 a short descriptive literary sketch or acted scene. B small
character part in a play or film, usu. Brief and played by a distinguished actor.
[french and medieval latin]
Camomile n. (also chamomile) aromatic plant with daisy-like flowers used esp.
To make tea. [greek, = earth-apple]
Camouflage —n. 1 a disguising of soldiers, tanks, etc. So that they blend into the
background. B such a disguise. 2 the natural blending colouring of an animal. 3
misleading or evasive behaviour etc. —v. (-ging) hide by camouflage. [french
camoufler disguise]
Campanology n. 1 the study of bells. 2 bell-ringing. campanologist n. [latin
campana bell]
Camper n. 1 person who camps. 2 large motor vehicle with beds etc.
Campion n. Wild plant with usu. Pink or white notched flowers. [origin
uncertain]
Can1 v.aux. (3rd sing. Present can; past could) 1 a be able to; know how to. B be
potentially capable of (these storms can last for hours). 2 be permitted to. [old
english, = know]
Can2 —n. 1 metal vessel for liquid. 2 sealed tin container for the preservation of
food or drink. 3 (in pl.) Slang headphones. 4 (prec. By the) slang a prison. B us
lavatory. —v. (-nn-) put or preserve in a can. in the can colloq. Completed,
ready. [old english]
Canada goose n. Wild n. American goose with a brownish-grey body and white
neck and breast.
Canalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 provide with or convert into a canal or
canals. 2 channel. canalization n. [french: related to *canal]
Canary n. (pl. -ies) small songbird with yellow feathers. [canary islands]
Candelabrum n. (also -bra) (pl. -bra, us -brums, -bras) large branched candlestick
Candelabrum n. (also -bra) (pl. -bra, us -brums, -bras) large branched candlestick
or lamp-holder. [latin: related to *candela]
Usage the form candelabra is, strictly speaking, the plural. However, candelabra
(singular) and candelabras (plural) are often found in informal use.
Candid adj. 1 frank; open. 2 (of a photograph) taken informally, usu. Without
subject’s knowledge. candidly adv. Candidness n. [latin candidus white]
Candle n. Cylinder or block of wax or tallow with a central wick which gives
light when burning. cannot hold a candle to is much inferior to. Not worth the
candle not justifying cost or trouble. [latin candela]
Candlemas n. Feast of the purification of the virgin mary (2 feb.). [old english:
related to *mass2]
Candlestick n. Holder for one or more candles.
Candy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 (in full sugar-candy) sugar crystallized by repeated
boiling and slow evaporation. 2 us sweets; a sweet. —v. (-ies, -ied) (usu. As
candied adj.) Preserve (fruit etc.) In candy. [french from arabic]
Candytuft n. Plant with white, pink, or purple flowers in tufts. [candia crete,
*tuft]
Cane —n. 1 a hollow jointed stem of giant reeds or grasses. B solid stem of
slender palms. 2 = *sugar cane. 3 cane used for wickerwork etc. 4 cane used as a
walking-stick, plant support, for punishment, etc. —v. (-ning) 1 beat with a cane.
2 weave cane into (a chair etc.). [greek kanna reed]
Canine —adj. Of a dog or dogs. —n. 1 dog. 2 (in full canine tooth) pointed tooth
between incisors and premolars. [latin canis dog]
Canister n. 1 small container for tea etc. 2 cylinder of shot, tear-gas, etc.,
exploding on impact. [greek kanastron wicker basket]
Canker —n. 1 destructive disease of trees and plants. 2 ulcerous ear disease of
animals. 3 corrupting influence. —v. 1 infect with canker. 2 corrupt. 3 (as
cankered adj.) Soured, malignant. cankerous adj. [latin: related to *cancer]
Canna n. Tropical plant with bright flowers and ornamental leaves. [latin: related
to *cane]
Cannon —n. 1 hist. (pl. Usu. Same) large heavy esp. Mounted gun. 2 billiards
hitting of two balls successively by the player’s ball. —v. (usu. Foll. By against,
into) collide. [italian: related to *cane]
Cannonade —n. Period of continuous heavy gunfire. —v. (-ding) bombard with
a cannonade. [italian: related to *cannon]
Canny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 shrewd, worldly-wise; thrifty. 2 scot. & n.engl. Pleasant,
agreeable. cannily adv. Canniness n. [from *can1]
Canoe —n. Small narrow boat with pointed ends, usu. Paddled. —v. (-noes, -
noed, -noeing) travel in a canoe. canoeist n. [spanish and haitian]
Canopy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 a covering suspended over a throne, bed, etc. B sky. C
overhanging shelter. 2 archit. Rooflike projection over a niche etc. 3 expanding
part of a parachute. —v. (-ies, -ied) supply or be a canopy to. [greek, =
mosquito-net]
Cant2 —n. 1 slanting surface, bevel. 2 oblique push or jerk. 3 tilted position. —
v. Push or pitch out of level; tilt. [low german or dutch, = edge]
Cantabile mus. —adv. & adj. In smooth flowing style. —n. Cantabile passage or
movement. [italian, = singable]
Cantaloup n. (also cantaloupe) small round ribbed melon. [cantaluppi near rome,
where it was first grown in europe]
Cantata n. Mus. Composition with vocal solos and usu. Choral and orchestral
accompaniment. [italian: related to *chant]
Canter —n. Horse’s pace between a trot and a gallop. —v. Go or make go at a
canter. [canterbury gallop of medieval pilgrims]
Canto n. (pl. -s) division of a long poem. [latin cantus: related to *chant]
Canton —n. Subdivision of a country, esp. Of switzerland. —v. Put (troops) into
Canton —n. Subdivision of a country, esp. Of switzerland. —v. Put (troops) into
quarters. [french, = corner: related to *cant2]
Canvas —n. 1 strong coarse cloth used for sails and tents etc. And for oil-
painting. 2 a painting on canvas, esp. In oils. —v. (-ss-; us -s-) cover with
canvas. under canvas 1 in tents. 2 with sails spread. [latin: related to *cannabis]
Cap —n. 1 a soft brimless hat, usu. With a peak. B head-covering worn in a
particular profession. C cap as a sign of membership of a sports team. D
mortarboard. 2 a cover like a cap (kneecap). B top for a bottle, jar, pen, camera
lens, etc. 3 = dutch cap. 4 = percussion cap. 5 dental crown. —v. (-pp-) 1 a put a
cap on. B cover the top or end of. C set a limit to (charge-capping). 2 award a
sports cap to. 3 form the top of. 4 surpass, excel. cap in hand humbly. If the cap
fits (of a remark) if it applies to you, so be it. To cap it all after everything else.
[latin cappa]
Capable adj. 1 competent, able, gifted. 2 (foll. By of) a having the ability,
fitness, etc. For. B admitting of (explanation, improvement, etc.). capably adv.
[latin capio hold]
Cape1 n. 1 sleeveless cloak. 2 this worn over or as part of a longer cloak or coat.
[latin cappa *cap]
Cape2 n. 1 headland, promontory. 2 (the cape) the cape of good hope. [latin
caput head]
Caper1 —v. Jump or run playfully. —n. 1 playful leap. 2 a prank. B slang illicit
activity. cut a caper frolic. [abbreviation of *capriole]
Caper2 n. 1 bramble-like shrub. 2 (in pl.) Its pickled buds used esp. In a sauce.
[greek kapparis]
Capillary —attrib. Adj. 1 of or like a hair, esp. (of a tube) of very small
diameter. 2 of the branching blood-vessels connecting arteries and veins. —n.
(pl. -ies) 1 capillary tube. 2 capillary blood vessel. [latin capillus hair]
Capital —n. 1 chief town or city of a country or region. 2 a money etc. With
which a company starts in business. B accumulated wealth. 3 capitalists
collectively. 4 capital letter. 5 head of a column or pillar. —adj. 1 a principal,
most important. B colloq. Excellent. 2 a involving punishment by death. B (of an
error etc.) Vitally harmful, fatal. 3 (of letters of the alphabet) large in size, used
to begin sentences and names etc. make capital out of use to one’s advantage.
[latin caput -itis head]
Capitalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (foll. By on) use to one’s advantage. 2
convert into or provide with capital. 3 a write (a letter of the alphabet) as a
capital. B begin (a word) with a capital letter. capitalization n. [french: related to
*capital]
Capital transfer tax n. Hist. Tax levied on the transfer of capital by gift or
bequest etc.
Capital transfer tax n. Hist. Tax levied on the transfer of capital by gift or
bequest etc.
Capo n. (pl. -s) device fitted across the strings of a guitar etc. To raise their pitch
equally. [italian capo tasto head stop]
Capricorn n. 1 constellation and tenth sign of the zodiac (the goat). 2 person born
when the sun is in this sign. [latin caper -pri goat, cornu horn]
Capriole —n. Leap, caper, esp. Of a trained horse. —v. (-ling) perform this.
[italian: related to *capricorn]
Capsicum n. 1 plant with edible fruits, esp. Any of several varieties of pepper. 2
red, green, or yellow fruit of these. [latin capsa case]
Capstan n. 1 thick revolving cylinder for winding a cable etc. 2 revolving spindle
carrying the spool on a tape recorder. [provençal]
Capsulize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) put (information etc.) In compact form.
Capture —v. (-ring) 1 a take prisoner; seize. B obtain by force or trickery. 2
portray; record on film etc. 3 absorb (a subatomic particle). 4 record (data) for
use in a computer. —n. 1 act of capturing. 2 thing or person captured. [latin:
related to *captive]
Car n. 1 (in full motor car) motor vehicle for a driver and small number of
passengers. 2 (in comb.) Road vehicle or railway carriage esp. Of a specified
kind (tramcar; dining-car). 3 us any railway carriage or van. 4 passenger
compartment of a lift, balloon, etc. [french from latin]
Carat n. 1 unit of weight for precious stones (200 mg). 2 measure of purity of
gold (pure gold = 24 carats). [french ultimately from greek keras horn]
Caravan —n. 1 vehicle equipped for living in and usu. Towed by a car. 2 people
travelling together, esp. Across a desert. —v. (-nn-) travel or live in a caravan.
caravanner n. [french from persian]
Caravel n. (also carvel) hist. Small light fast ship. [greek karabos, literally
‘horned beetle’]
Carbolic n. (in full carbolic acid) phenol. [from *carbon]
Carbonate —n. Chem. Salt of carbonic acid. —v. (-ting) fill with carbon dioxide.
[french: related to *carbon]
Carbon dating n. Determination of the age of an organic object from the ratio of
isotopes, which changes as carbon-14 decays.
isotopes, which changes as carbon-14 decays.
Car-boot sale n. Sale of goods from (tables stocked from) the boots of cars.
Card1 n. 1 thick stiff paper or thin pasteboard. 2 a piece of this for writing or
printing on, esp. To send greetings, to identify a person, or to record information.
B small rectangular piece of plastic used for identity etc. 3 a = *playing-card. B
(in pl.) Card-playing. 4 (in pl.) Colloq. Tax and national insurance documents
etc., held by an employer. 5 programme of events at a race-meeting etc. 6 colloq.
Card2 —n. Wire brush etc. For raising a nap on cloth etc. —v. Brush or comb
with a card. [latin caro card (v.)]
Cardboard city n. Area where homeless people make shelters from cardboard
boxes etc.
Cardinal —adj. 1 chief, fundamental. 2 deep scarlet. —n. 1 (as a title cardinal)
Cardinal —adj. 1 chief, fundamental. 2 deep scarlet. —n. 1 (as a title cardinal)
leading roman catholic dignitary, one of the college electing the pope. 2 small
scarlet american songbird. [latin cardo -din-hinge]
Cardinal points n.pl. Four main points of the compass (n., s., e., w.).
Cardoon n. Thistle-like plant with leaves used as a vegetable. [french from latin]
Careen v. 1 turn (a ship) on one side for repair etc. 2 tilt, lean over. 3 swerve
about. [latin carina keel]
Carer n. Person who cares for a sick or elderly person, esp. A relative at home.
Caress —v. Touch or stroke gently or lovingly. —n. Loving or gentle touch.
[latin carus dear]
Careworn adj. Showing the effects of prolonged worry.
Cargo n. (pl. -es or -s) goods carried on a ship or aircraft. [spanish: related to
*charge]
Caring adj. 1 kind, humane. 2 (attrib.) Concerned with looking after people
(caring professions).
Carioca n. 1 brazilian dance like the samba. 2 music for this. [portuguese]
Carmelite —n. 1 friar of the order of our lady of carmel. 2 nun of a similar order.
—adj. Of the carmelites. [mt. Carmel in palestine, where the order was founded]
Carmine —adj. Of vivid crimson colour. —n. 1 this colour. 2 carmine pigment
made from cochineal. [probably from latin carmesinum *crimson]
Carnal adj. 1 of the body or flesh; worldly. 2 sensual, sexual. carnality n. [latin
caro carn-flesh]
Carnival n. 1 a annual festivities including a parade through the streets in fancy
dress. B festival preceding lent. 2 merrymaking. 3 us funfair or circus. [latin
carnem levo put away meat]
Carol —n. Joyous song, esp. A christmas hymn. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 sing carols. 2
sing joyfully. [french]
Carotid —n. Each of the two main arteries carrying blood to the head and neck.
—adj. Of these arteries. [latin from greek]
Carouse —v. (-sing) have a lively drinking-party. —n. Such a party. carousal n.
Carouse —v. (-sing) have a lively drinking-party. —n. Such a party. carousal n.
Carouser n. [german gar aus (drink) right out]
Carp1 n. (pl. Same) freshwater fish often bred for food. [provençal or latin]
Carpal —adj. Of the bones in the wrist. —n. Wrist-bone. [from *carpus]
Carpet —n. 1 a thick fabric for covering floor or stairs. B piece of this. 2 thing
resembling this etc. (carpet of snow). —v. (-t-) 1 cover with or as with carpet. 2
colloq. Reprimand. on the carpet colloq. 1 being reprimanded. 2 under
consideration. Sweep under the carpet conceal (a problem or difficulty). [latin
carpo pluck]
Carpus n. (pl. -pi) small bones forming the wrist in humans and similar parts in
other mammals. [latin from greek]
Carrel n. Small cubicle for a reader in a library. [french from medieval latin]
Carrion n. 1 dead putrefying flesh. 2 something vile or filthy. [latin caro flesh]
Carrion crow n. Crow feeding on carrion.
Carry —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 support or hold up, esp. While moving. 2 convey with
one or have on one’s person. 3 conduct or transmit (pipe carries water). 4 (often
foll. By to) take (a process etc.) To a specified point; continue; prolong (carry
into effect; carry a joke too far). 5 involve, imply (carries 6% interest). 6 math.
Transfer (a figure) to a column of higher value. 7 hold in a specified way (carry
oneself erect). 8 a (of a newspaper etc.) Publish. B (of a radio or television
station) broadcast. 9 keep a regular stock of. 10 a (of sound) be audible at a
distance. B (of a missile or gun etc.) Travel or propel to a specified distance. 11
a win victory or acceptance for (a proposal etc.). B win acceptance from (carried
the audience with her). C win, capture (a prize, fortress, etc.). 12 a endure the
weight of; support. B be the driving force in (you carry the department). 13 be
pregnant with. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 act of carrying. 2 golf distance a ball travels
before reaching the ground. carry away 1 remove. 2 inspire. 3 deprive of self-
control (got carried away). Carry the can colloq. Bear the responsibility or
blame. Carry the day be victorious or successful. Carry forward transfer to a new
page or account. Carry it off do well under difficulties. Carry off 1 take away,
esp. By force. 2 win (a prize). 3 (esp.
Cart —n. 1 open usu. Horse-drawn vehicle for carrying loads. 2 light vehicle for
pulling by hand. —v. 1 convey in a cart. 2 slang carry or convey with effort. put
the cart before the horse reverse the proper order or procedure. [old norse]
Carte blanche n. Full discretionary power. [french, = blank paper]
Cartoon n. 1 humorous, esp. Topical, drawing in a newspaper etc. 2 sequence of
drawings telling a story. 3 animated sequence of these on film. 4 full-size
preliminary design for a tapestry etc. cartoonist n. [italian: related to *card1]
Cartouche n. 1 scroll-like ornamentation. 2 oval ring enclosing the name and title
of a pharaoh. [french: related to *cartoon]
Carve v. (-ving) 1 produce or shape by cutting. 2 a cut patterns etc. In. B (foll.
By into) form a pattern etc. From (carved it into a bust). 3 (absol.) Cut (meat
etc.) Into slices. carve out 1 take from a larger whole. 2 establish (a career etc.)
Purposefully. Carve up 1 subdivide. 2 drive aggressively into the path of
(another vehicle). [old english]
Carvel-built adj. (of a boat) made with planks flush, not overlapping.
Carver n. 1 person who carves. 2 carving knife. 3 chair with arms, for a person
carving.
Carvery n. (pl. -ies) buffet or restaurant with joints displayed for carving.
Cascade —n. 1 small waterfall, esp. One of series. 2 thing falling or arranged
like a cascade. —v. (-ding) fall in or like a cascade. [latin: related to *case1]
Casein n. The main protein in milk and cheese. [latin caseus cheese]
Cash —n. 1 money in coins or notes. 2 (also cash down) full payment at the time
of purchase. 3 colloq. Wealth. —v. Give or obtain cash for (a note, cheque, etc.).
cash in 1 obtain cash for. 2 colloq. (usu. Foll. By on) profit (from); take
advantage (of). Cash up count and check the day’s takings. [latin: related to
*case2]
Cash and carry n. 1 system (esp. In wholesaling) of cash payment for goods
taken away by the purchaser. 2 store where this operates.
Cash dispenser n. Automatic machine for the withdrawal of cash, esp. With a
Cash dispenser n. Automatic machine for the withdrawal of cash, esp. With a
cashcard.
Cashier2 v. Dismiss from service, esp. With disgrace. [french: related to *quash]
Cashmere n. 1 fine soft wool, esp. That of a kashmir goat. 2 material made from
this. [kashmir in asia]
Casino n. (pl. -s) public room or building for gambling. [italian diminutive of
Casino n. (pl. -s) public room or building for gambling. [italian diminutive of
casa house]
Cask n. 1 barrel, esp. For alcohol. 2 its contents. [french casque or spanish casco
helmet]
Casket n. 1 small often ornamental box for jewels etc. 2 us coffin. [latin: related
to *case2]
Cassava n. 1 plant with starchy roots. 2 starch or flour from these, used e.g. In
tapioca. [taino]
Casserole —n. 1 covered dish for cooking food in the oven. 2 food cooked in
this. —v. (-ling) cook in a casserole. [greek kuathion little cup]
Cassette n. Sealed case containing magnetic tape, film etc., ready for insertion in
a tape recorder, camera, etc. [french diminutive: related to *case2]
Cassock n. Long usu. Black or red clerical garment. cassocked adj. [french from
italian]
Cast —v. (past and past part. Cast) 1 throw, esp. Deliberately or forcefully. 2
(often foll. By on, over) a direct or cause (one’s eyes, a glance, light, a shadow, a
spell, etc.) To fall. B express (doubts, aspersions, etc.). 3 throw out (a fishing-
line etc.) Into the water. 4 let down (an anchor etc.). 5 a throw off, get rid of. B
shed or lose (horns, skin, a horseshoe, etc.). 6 register (a vote). 7 a shape (molten
metal etc.) In a mould. B make thus. 8 a (usu. Foll. By as) assign (an actor) to a
role. B allocate roles in (a play etc.). 9 (foll. By in, into) arrange (facts etc.) In a
specified form. 10 reckon, add up (accounts or figures). 11 calculate (a
horoscope). —n. 1 throwing of a missile, dice, line, net, etc. 2 a object made in a
mould. B moulded mass of solidified material, esp. Plaster for a broken limb. 3
actors in a play etc. 4 form, type, or quality. 5 tinge or shade of colour. 6 slight
squint. 7 worm-cast. cast about (or around) search. Cast adrift leave to drift. Cast
aside abandon. Cast loose detach (oneself). Cast lots see *lot. Cast off 1
abandon. 2 finish a piece of knitting. 3 set a ship free from a quay etc. Cast on
make the first row of a piece of knitting. Cast up 1 deposit on the shore. 2 add up
(figures etc.). [old norse]
Castanet n. (usu. In pl.) Each of a pair of hand-held pieces of wood etc., clicked
together as an accompaniment, esp. By spanish dancers. [latin: related to
*chestnut]
Caste n. 1 any of the hindu hereditary classes whose members have no social
contact with other classes. 2 exclusive social class or system of classes. lose
caste descend in social order. [spanish and portuguese: related to *chaste]
Casting vote n. Deciding vote when the votes on two sides are equal. [from an
obsolete sense of cast, = turn the scale]
Cast iron n. Hard alloy of iron, carbon, and silicon cast in a mould.
Castle —n. 1 large fortified building with towers and battlements. 2 chess =
Castle —n. 1 large fortified building with towers and battlements. 2 chess =
*rook2. —v. (-ling) chess move a rook next to the king and the king to the other
side of the rook. castles in the air day-dream; impractical scheme. [latin
castellum]
Castor n. (also caster) 1 small swivelled wheel on the leg or underside of a piece
of furniture. 2 small perforated container for sprinkling sugar, flour, etc. [from
*cast]
Castor oil n. Oil from the seeds of a tropical plant, used as a purgative and
lubricant. [origin uncertain]
Castrate v. (-ting) 1 remove the testicles of; geld. 2 deprive of vigour. castration
n. [latin castro]
Castrato n. (pl. -ti) hist. Castrated male soprano or alto singer. [italian: related to
*castrate]
Casualty n. (pl. -ies) 1 person killed or injured in a war or accident. 2 thing lost
or destroyed. 3 = casualty department. 4 accident, mishap. [medieval latin:
related to casual]
Casuist n. 1 person who uses clever but false reasoning in matters of conscience
etc. 2 sophist, quibbler. casuistic adj. Casuistry n. [latin: related to *case1]
Catafalque n. Decorated bier, used esp. In state funerals or for lying in state.
[french from italian]
Catalpa n. Tree with long pods and showy flowers. [n. American indian]
Catalyst n. 1 substance that does not itself change, but speeds up a chemical
reaction. 2 person or thing that precipitates change.
Catamaran n. 1 boat with parallel twin hulls. 2 raft of yoked logs or boats.
[tamil]
Catapult —n. 1 forked stick etc. With elastic for shooting stones. 2 mil hist.
Machine for hurling large stones etc. 3 device for launching a glider etc. —v. 1 a
hurl from or launch with a catapult. B fling forcibly. 2 leap or be hurled forcibly.
[latin from greek]
Catch —v. (past and past part. Caught) 1 capture in a trap, one’s hands, etc. 2
detect or surprise (esp. A guilty person). 3 a intercept and hold (a moving thing)
in the hands etc. B cricket dismiss (a batsman) by catching the ball before it
reaches the ground. 4 a contract (a disease) from an infected person. B acquire (a
quality etc.) From another. 5 a reach in time and board (a train, bus, etc.). B be in
time to see etc. (a person or thing about to leave or finish). 6 apprehend with the
senses or mind (esp. A thing occurring quickly or briefly). 7 (of an artist etc.)
Reproduce faithfully. 8 a (cause to) become fixed, entangled, or checked. B
(often foll. By on) hit, deal a blow to (caught his elbow on the table). 9 draw the
attention of; captivate (caught his eye; caught her fancy). 10 begin to burn. 11
reach or overtake (a person etc. Ahead). 12 (foll. By at) try to grasp. —n. 1 a act
of catching. B cricket etc. Chance or act of catching the ball. 2 a amount of a
thing caught, esp. Of fish. B thing or person caught or worth catching, esp. In
marriage. 3 a question, trick, etc., intended to deceive, incriminate, etc. B
unexpected or hidden difficulty or disadvantage. 4 device for fastening a door or
window etc. 5 mus. Round, esp. With words arranged to produce a humorous
effect. catch fire see *fire. Catch hold of grasp, seize. Catch it slang be punished.
Catch on colloq. 1 become popular. 2 understand what is meant. Catch out 1
detect in a mistake etc. 2 take unawares. 3 = sense 3b of v. Catch up 1 a (often
foll. By with) reach a person etc. Ahead (caught us up; caught up with us). B
(often foll. By with, on) make up arrears. 2 pick up hurriedly. 3 (often in
passive) a involve; entangle (caught up in crime). B fasten up (hair caught up in
a ribbon). [latin capto try to catch]
Catchline n. Short line of type, esp. At the head of copy or as a running headline.
Catchment area n. 1 area served by a school, hospital, etc. 2 area from which
rainfall flows into a river etc.
Category n. (pl. -ies) class or division (of things, ideas, etc.). [greek, = statement]
Cater v. 1 supply food. 2 (foll. By for) provide what is needed or desired (caters
for all tastes). 3 (foll. By to) pander to (esp. Low tastes). [anglo-french acatour
buyer, from latin capto: related to *catch]
Caterwaul —v. Make the shrill howl of a cat. —n. This noise. [from *cat, -waul
imitative]
Catfish n. (pl. Same) freshwater fish with whisker-like barbels round the mouth.
Cat flap n. (also cat door) small swinging flap in an outer door, for a cat to pass
in and out.
Catgut n. Material used for the strings of musical instruments and surgical
sutures, made of intestines of the sheep, horse, etc. (but not cat).
Catherine wheel n. Flat coiled firework spinning when lit. [st catherine, who was
martyred on a spiked wheel]
Catheter n. Tube inserted into a body cavity for introducing or removing fluid.
[greek kathiemi send down]
Catkin n. Small spike of usu. Hanging flowers on a willow, hazel, etc. [dutch, =
kitten]
Catnip n. = catmint. [from cat, dial. Nip catmint]
Catsuit n. Close-fitting garment with trouser legs, covering the whole body.
Cattle n.pl. Large ruminant animals with horns and cloven hoofs, esp. Bred for
milk or meat. [anglo-french catel: related to *capital]
Cattle-grid n. Grid over a ditch, allowing people and vehicles but not livestock to
pass over.
Caucus n. (pl. -es) 1 us meeting of party members, esp. In the senate etc., to
decide policy. 2 often derog. A meeting of a group within a larger organization
or party. B such a group. [perhaps from algonquian]
Caudal adj. 1 of or like a tail. 2 of the posterior part of the body. [latin cauda tail]
Cauldron n. (also caldron) large deep vessel used for boiling. [latin caldarium
hot bath]
Caulk v. (also calk) 1 stop up (the seams of a boat etc.). 2 make (esp. A boat)
watertight. [latin calco tread]
Causal adj. 1 of or forming a cause. 2 relating to cause and effect. causally adv.
Cause —n. 1 a thing that produces an effect. B person or thing that occasions or
produces something. C reason or motive. 2 adequate reason (show cause). 3
principle, belief, or purpose. 4 a matter to be settled at law. B case offered at law
(plead a cause). —v. (-sing) be the cause of, produce, make happen. [latin causa]
Cause célèbre n. (pl. Causes célèbres pronunc. Same) lawsuit that attracts much
interest. [french]
Causeway n. 1 raised road across low ground or water. 2 raised path by a road.
[anglo-french caucée from latin *calx]
Cauterize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) burn (tissue), esp. To stop bleeding.
[french: related to *caustic]
Cavalier —n. 1 hist. (cavalier) supporter of charles i in the civil war. 2 courtly
gentleman. 3 archaic horseman. —adj. Offhand, supercilious, curt. [related to
*cavalcade]
Cave —n. Large hollow in the side of a cliff, hill, etc., or underground. —v. (-
ving) explore caves. cave in 1 (cause to) subside or collapse. 2 yield, give up.
[latin cavus hollow]
Cavern n. Cave, esp. A large or dark one. cavernous adj. [latin caverna: related
to *cave]
Caviar n. (brit. Caviare) pickled roe of sturgeon or other large fish. [italian from
Caviar n. (brit. Caviare) pickled roe of sturgeon or other large fish. [italian from
turkish]
Caviare n. (us caviar) pickled roe of sturgeon or other large fish. [italian from
turkish]
Cavil —v. (-ll-, us -l-) (usu. Foll. By at, about) make petty objections; carp. —n.
Petty objection. [latin cavillor]
Cavity n. (pl. -ies) 1 hollow within a solid body. 2 decayed part of a tooth. [latin:
related to *cave]
Cavy n. (pl. -ies) small s. American rodent, esp. The guinea pig. [latin from
galibi]
Caw —n. Harsh cry of a rook, crow, etc. —v. Utter this cry. [imitative]
Cayman n. (also caiman) (pl. -s) s. American alligator-like reptile. [spanish and
Cayman n. (also caiman) (pl. -s) s. American alligator-like reptile. [spanish and
portuguese from carib]
Cd symb. Cadmium.
Cd abbr. Candela.
Cd-rom abbr. Compact disc read-only memory (for the retrieval of text or data
on a vdu screen).
Ce symb. Cerium.
Cease formal —v. (-sing) stop; bring or come to an end. —n. (in without cease)
unending. [latin cesso]
Cecum n. (brit. Caecum) (pl. -ca) blind-ended pouch at the junction of the small
and large intestines. [latin caecus blind]
Cedar n. 1 spreading evergreen conifer. 2 its hard fragrant wood. [greek kedros]
Cede v. (-ding) formal give up one’s rights to or possession of. [latin cedo cess-
yield]
Celebrant n. Person who performs a rite, esp. The priest at the eucharist.
Celery n. Plant with crisp long whitish leaf-stalks used as a vegetable. [greek
selinon parsley]
Celesta n. Small keyboard instrument with steel plates struck to give a bell-like
sound. [french: related to *celestial]
Celestial equator n. The great circle of the sky in the plane perpendicular to the
earth’s axis.
Celestial sphere n. Imaginary sphere, of any radius, of which the observer is the
centre and in which celestial bodies are represented as lying.
Cellar —n. 1 storage room below ground level in a house. 2 stock of wine in a
cellar. —v. Store in a cellar. [latin cellarium: related to *cell]
Cello n. (pl. -s) bass instrument of the violin family, held between the legs of the
seated player. cellist n. [abbreviation of *violoncello]
seated player. cellist n. [abbreviation of *violoncello]
Cellulite n. Lumpy fat, esp. On the hips and thighs of women. [french: related to
*cell]
Celluloid n. 1 plastic made from camphor and cellulose nitrate. 2 cinema film.
Usage see note at centigrade.
Celtic —adj. Of the celts. —n. Group of celtic languages, including gaelic and
irish, welsh, cornish, and breton.
Cement —n. 1 powdery substance of calcined lime and clay, mixed with water
to form mortar or used in concrete. 2 similar substance. 3 uniting factor or
principle. 4 substance used in filling teeth, doing hip replacements, etc. —v. 1 a
unite with or as with cement. B establish or strengthen (a friendship etc.). 2
apply cement to. 3 line or cover with cement. cementation n. [latin caedo cut]
Cemetery n. (pl. -ies) burial ground, esp. One not in a churchyard. [greek koimao
put to sleep]
Cenozoic (also cainozoic, caenozoic) —adj. Of the most recent geological era,
marked by the evolution and development of mammals etc. —n. This era. [greek
kainos new, zoion animal]
Census n. (pl. -suses) official count of population etc. [latin: related to *censor]
Centaur n. Creature in greek mythology with the upper half of a man and the
lower half of a horse. [latin from greek]
Centenarian —n. Person a hundred or more years old. —adj. A hundred or more
Centenarian —n. Person a hundred or more years old. —adj. A hundred or more
years old.
Centennial —adj. 1 lasting for a hundred years. 2 occurring every hundred years.
—n. Us = centenary n. [latin centum 100: cf. biennial]
Center (brit. Centre) —n. 1 middle point. 2 pivot or axis of rotation. 3 a place or
buildings forming a central point or a main area for an activity (shopping centre;
town centre). B (with a preceding word) equipment for a number of connected
functions (music centre). 4 point of concentration or dispersion; nucleus, source.
5 political party or group holding moderate opinions. 6 filling in chocolate etc. 7
sport a middle player in a line in some field games. B kick or hit from the side to
the centre of a pitch. 8 (attrib.) Of or at the centre. —v. (-ring) 1 (foll. By in, on,
round) have as its main centre. 2 place in the centre. 3 (foll. By in etc.)
Concentrate. [greek kentron sharp point]
Centerfold n. (brit. Centrefold) centre spread of a magazine etc., esp. With nude
photographs.
Centipede n. Arthropod with a segmented wormlike body and many legs. [latin
pes ped-foot]
Central adj. 1 of, at, or forming the centre. 2 from the centre. 3 chief, essential,
Central adj. 1 of, at, or forming the centre. 2 from the centre. 3 chief, essential,
most important. centrality n. Centrally adv.
Centre (us center) —n. 1 middle point. 2 pivot or axis of rotation. 3 a place or
buildings forming a central point or a main area for an activity (shopping centre;
town centre). B (with a preceding word) equipment for a number of connected
functions (music centre). 4 point of concentration or dispersion; nucleus, source.
5 political party or group holding moderate opinions. 6 filling in chocolate etc. 7
sport a middle player in a line in some field games. B kick or hit from the side to
the centre of a pitch. 8 (attrib.) Of or at the centre. —v. (-ring) 1 (foll. By in, on,
round) have as its main centre. 2 place in the centre. 3 (foll. By in etc.)
Concentrate. [greek kentron sharp point]
Usage the use of the verb in sense 1 with round is common and used by good
writers, but is still considered incorrect by some people.
Centrefold n. (us centerfold) centre spread of a magazine etc., esp. With nude
photographs.
Centre of gravity n. (also centre of mass) point at which the weight of a body
may be considered to act.
Centric adj. 1 at or near the centre. 2 from a centre. centrical adj. Centrically adv.
Centrifugal force n. Apparent force that acts outwards on a body moving about a
centre.
Century n. (pl. -ies) 1 a 100 years. B any century reckoned from the birth of
christ (twentieth century = 1901–2000; fifth century bc = 500–401 bc). 2 score
etc. Of 100 esp. By one batsman in cricket. 3 company in the ancient roman
army, orig. Of 100 men. [latin centuria: related to *cent]
Usage strictly speaking, since the first century ran from the year 1 to 100, the
first year of a given century should be that ending in 01. However, in popular
use this has been moved back a year, and so the twenty-first century will
commonly be regarded as running from 2000–2099.
Cephalopod n. Mollusc with a distinct tentacled head, e.g. The octopus. [from
*cephalic, greek pous pod-foot]
Ceramic —adj. 1 made of (esp.) Baked clay. 2 of ceramics. —n. Ceramic article
or product. [greek keramos pottery]
Cereal —n. 1 a grain used for food. B wheat, maize, rye, etc. Producing this. 2
breakfast food made from a cereal. —adj. Of edible grain. [latin ceres goddess of
agriculture]
Cerebellum n. (pl. -s or -bella) part of the brain at the back of the skull. [latin
diminutive of *cerebrum]
Cerebrum n. (pl. -bra) principal part of the brain in vertebrates, at the front of the
skull. [latin]
Cern abbr. European organization for nuclear research. [french conseil européen
pour la recherche nucléaire, former title]
Cern abbr. European organization for nuclear research. [french conseil européen
pour la recherche nucléaire, former title]
Certificate —n. Formal document attesting a fact, esp. Birth, marriage, or death,
a medical condition, or a qualification. —v. (-ting) (esp. As certificated adj.)
Provide with, license, or attest by a certificate. certification n. [latin: related to
*certify]
Certify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 attest; attest to, esp. Formally. 2 declare by certificate. 3
officially declare insane. [latin certus]
Cervical adj. Of the neck or the cervix (cervical vertebrae). [related to *cervix]
Cervical smear n. Specimen from the neck of the womb for examination.
Cervix n. (pl. Cervices) 1 necklike structure, esp. The neck of the womb. 2 the
neck. [latin]
Cesarean (brit. Caesarean) —adj. (of birth) effected by caesarean section. —n.
Caesarean section. [from *caesar: julius caesar was supposedly born this way]
Cesspit n. (also cesspool) covered pit for the temporary storage of liquid waste
or sewage. [origin uncertain]
Cetacean —n. Marine mammal, e.g. The whale. —adj. Of cetaceans. [greek
ketos whale]
Cf symb. Californium.
Cg abbr. Centigram(s).
Chablis n. (pl. Same) very dry white wine from chablis in e. France.
Chaff —n. 1 separated husks of corn etc. 2 chopped hay or straw. 3 light-hearted
teasing. 4 worthless things. —v. Tease, banter. [old english]
Chain —n. 1 a connected flexible series of esp. Metal links. B thing resembling
this. 2 (in pl.) Fetters; restraining force. 3 sequence, series, or set. 4 group of
associated hotels, shops, etc. 5 badge of office in the form of a chain worn round
the neck. 6 unit of length (66 ft). —v. (often foll. By up) secure or confine with a
chain. [latin catena]
Chain-smoke v. Smoke continually, esp. By lighting the next cigarette etc. From
the previous one. chain-smoker n.
Chair —n. 1 seat for one person usu. With a back. 2 professorship. 3 a
chairperson. B seat or office of a chairperson. 4 us = *electric chair. —v. 1
preside over (a meeting). 2 carry (a person) aloft in triumph. take the chair
preside over a meeting. [greek kathedra]
Chaise n. Esp. Hist. Horse-drawn usu. Open carriage for one or two persons.
[french]
Chaise longue n. (pl. Chaise longues or chaises longues pronunc. Same) sofa
with only one arm rest. [french, = long chair]
Chalcedony n. (pl. -ies) type of quartz with many varieties, e.g. Onyx. [latin
from greek]
Chalybeate adj. (of water etc.) Impregnated with iron salts. [latin chalybs steel,
from greek]
Chamois n. (pl. Same) 1 agile european and asian mountain antelope. 2 (in full
chamois leather) a soft leather from sheep, goats, deer, etc. B piece of this.
[french]
Champ1 —v. Munch or chew noisily. —n. Chewing noise. champ at the bit be
restlessly impatient. [imitative]
Usage the use of this word in sense 1b is, strictly speaking, incorrect.
Champion —n. 1 (often attrib.) Person or thing that has defeated or surpassed all
rivals. 2 person who fights or argues for a cause or another person. —v. Support
the cause of, defend. —adj. Colloq. Splendid. —adv. Colloq. Splendidly.
[medieval latin campio fighter]
Chancery n. (pl. -ies) 1 (chancery) lord chancellor’s division of the high court of
justice. 2 records office. 3 chancellery. [contraction of *chancellery]
Chandler n. Dealer in candles, oil, soap, paint, etc. [french: related to *candle]
Channel —n. 1 a piece of water wider than a strait, joining esp. Two seas. B (the
channel) the english channel. 2 medium of communication; agency. 3 band of
frequencies used in radio and television transmission, esp. By a particular
station. 4 course in which anything moves. 5 a hollow bed of water. B navigable
part of a waterway. 6 passage for liquid. 7 lengthwise strip on recording tape etc.
—v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 guide, direct. 2 form channel(s) in. [latin: related to *canal]
Chant —n. 1 spoken singsong phrase. 2 a simple tune used for singing
unmetrical words, e.g. Psalms. B song, esp. Monotonous or repetitive. —v. 1
talk or repeat monotonously. 2 sing or intone (a psalm etc.). [latin canto from
cano sing]
Chantry n. (pl. -ies) 1 endowment for the singing of masses. 2 priests, chapel,
etc., so endowed. [french: related to *chant]
Chap2 —v. (-pp-) 1 (esp. Of the skin) develop cracks or soreness. 2 (of the wind,
cold, etc.) Cause to chap. —n. (usu. In pl.) Crack in the skin etc. [origin
uncertain]
Chapatti n. (also chapati, chupatty) (pl. Chapat(t)is or chupatties) flat thin cake
of unleavened bread. [hindi]
Chaplet n. 1 garland or circlet for the head. 2 short string of beads; rosary. [latin:
related to *cap]
Chapman n. Hist. Pedlar. [old english: related to cheap, man]
Chapter n. 1 main division of a book. 2 period of time (in a person’s life etc.). 3
a canons of a cathedral or members of a religious community. B meeting of
these. [latin diminutive of caput head]
Charabanc n. Hist. Early form of motor coach. [french char à bancs seated
carriage]
carriage]
Characterize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 a describe the character of. B (foll.
By as) describe as. 2 be characteristic of. 3 impart character to. characterization
n.
Charade n. 1 (usu. In pl., treated as sing.) Game of guessing a word from acted
clues. 2 absurd pretence. [provençal charra chatter]
Charge —v. (-ging) 1 a ask (an amount) as a price. B ask (a person) for an
amount as a price. 2 a (foll. By to, up to) debit the cost of to (a person or
account). B debit (a person or account). 3 a (often foll. By with) accuse (of an
offence). B (foll. By that + clause) make an accusation that. 4 (foll. By to +
infin.) Instruct or urge. 5 (foll. By with) entrust with. 6 make a rushing attack
(on). 7 (often foll. By up) a give an electric charge to. B store energy in (a
battery). 8 (often foll. By with) load or fill (a vessel, gun, etc.) To the full or
proper extent. 9 (usu. As charged adj.) A (foll. By with) saturated with. B (usu.
Foll. By with) pervaded (with strong feelings etc.). —n. 1 a price asked for
services or goods. B financial liability or commitment. 2 accusation. 3 a task,
duty, commission. B care, custody. C person or thing entrusted. 4 a impetuous
rush or attack, esp. In battle. B signal for this. 5 appropriate amount of material
to be put into a receptacle, mechanism, etc. At one time, esp. Of explosive for a
gun. 6 a property of matter causing electrical phenomena. B quantity of this
carried by the body. C energy stored chemically for conversion into electricity. 7
exhortation; directions, orders. 8 heraldic device or bearing. in charge having
command. Take charge (often foll. By of) assume control. chargeable adj. [latin
carrus *car]
Charioteer n. Chariot-driver.
Charisma n. 1 power to inspire or attract others; exceptional charm. 2 divinely
conferred power or talent. charismatic adj. [greek kharis grace]
Charlady n. = *charwoman.
Charleston n. (also charleston) lively dance of the 1920s with side-kicks from
the knee. [charleston in s. Carolina]
Charming adj. Delightful. charmingly adv.
Chary adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 cautious, wary. 2 sparing; ungenerous. [old english:
related to *care]
Chase1 —v. (-sing) 1 run after; pursue. 2 (foll. By from, out of, to, etc.) Force to
run away or flee. 3 a (foll. By after) hurry in pursuit of. B (foll. By round etc.)
Colloq. Act or move about hurriedly. 4 (usu. Foll. By up) colloq. Pursue (a thing
overdue). 5 colloq. A try to attain. B court persistently. —n. 1 pursuit. 2
unenclosed hunting-land. 3 (prec. By the) hunting, esp. As a sport. [latin capto:
related to *catch]
Chasm n. 1 deep cleft or opening in the earth, rock, etc. 2 wide difference of
feeling, interests, etc. [latin from greek]
Chat —v. (-tt-) talk in a light familiar way. —n. 1 pleasant informal talk. 2 any
of various songbirds. chat up colloq. Chat to, esp. Flirtatiously or with an ulterior
motive. [shortening of *chatter]
Château n. (pl. -x) large french country house or castle. [french: related to
*castle]
Chat show n. Television or radio broadcast in which celebrities are interviewed
informally.
Chatty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 fond of chatting. 2 resembling chat. chattily adv.
Chattiness n.
Chauffeur —n. (fem. Chauffeuse) person employed to drive a car. —v. Drive (a
car or person) as a chauffeur. [french, = stoker]
Cheap —adj. 1 low in price; worth more than its cost. 2 charging low prices;
offering good value. 3 of poor quality; inferior. 4 costing little effort and hence
offering good value. 3 of poor quality; inferior. 4 costing little effort and hence
of little worth. —adv. Cheaply. on the cheap cheaply. cheaply adv. Cheapness n.
[old english, = price, bargain]
Cheapjack —n. Seller of inferior goods at low prices. —adj. Inferior, shoddy.
Cheat —v. 1 a (often foll. By into, out of) deceive or trick. B (foll. By of)
deprive of. 2 gain an unfair advantage by deception or breaking rules. —n. 1
person who cheats. 2 trick, deception. cheat on colloq. Be sexually unfaithful to.
[from *escheat]
Check —v. 1 a examine the accuracy or quality of. B make sure, verify. 2 a stop
or slow the motion of; curb. B colloq. Rebuke. 3 chess directly threaten (the
opposing king). 4 us agree on comparison. 5 us mark with a tick etc. 6 us deposit
(luggage etc.). —n. 1 means or act of testing or ensuring accuracy, quality, etc. 2
a stopping or slowing of motion. B rebuff or rebuke. C person or thing that
restrains. 3 a pattern of small squares. B fabric so patterned. C (attrib.) So
patterned. 4 (also as int.) Chess exposure of a king to direct attack. 5 us
restaurant bill. 6 us = *cheque. 7 esp. Us token of identification for left luggage
etc. 8 us cards counter used in games. 9 temporary loss of the scent in hunting.
check in 1 arrive or register at a hotel, airport, etc. 2 record the arrival of. Check
into register one’s arrival at (a hotel etc.). Check off mark on a list etc. As
having been examined. Check on examine, verify, keep watch on. Check out 1
(often foll. By of) leave a hotel etc. With due formalities. 2 esp. Us investigate.
Check up make sure, verify. Check up on = check on. [persian, = king]
Checkmate —n. (also as int.) Chess check from which a king cannot escape. —
v. (-ting) 1 chess put into checkmate. 2 frustrate. [french: related to *check,
persian mat is dead]
Cheek —n. 1 a side of the face below the eye. B side-wall of the mouth. 2 a
impertinence; cool confidence. B impertinent speech. 3 slang buttock. —v. Be
impertinence; cool confidence. B impertinent speech. 3 slang buttock. —v. Be
impertinent to. cheek by jowl close together; intimate. [old english]
Cheep —n. Weak shrill cry of a young bird. —v. Make such a cry. [imitative]
Cheery adj. (-ier, -iest) cheerful. cheerily adv. Cheeriness n.
Cheese n. 1 a food made from curds of milk. B cake of this with rind. 2 conserve
with the consistency of soft cheese. cheesy adj. [latin caseus]
Cheesecake n. 1 tart filled with sweetened curds etc. 2 slang portrayal of women
in a sexually stimulating manner.
Cheesed adj. Slang (often foll. By off) bored, fed up. [origin unknown]
Chef n. (usu. Male) cook, esp. The chief cook in a restaurant. [french]
Chelsea bun n. Currant bun in the form of a flat spiral. [chelsea in london]
Chelsea pensioner n. Inmate of the chelsea royal hospital for old or disabled
soldiers.
Chemistry n. (pl. -ies) 1 branch of science dealing with the elements and the
compounds they form and the reactions they undergo. 2 chemical composition
and properties of a substance. 3 colloq. Sexual attraction.
Cheque n. 1 written order to a bank to pay the stated sum from the drawer’s
account. 2 printed form on which this is written. [from *check]
Chequer —n. 1 (often in pl.) Pattern of squares often alternately coloured. 2 var.
Of *checker2 2. —v. 1 mark with chequers. 2 variegate; break the uniformity of.
3 (as chequered adj.) With varied fortunes (chequered career). [from
*exchequer]
Cherish v. 1 protect or tend lovingly. 2 hold dear, cling to (hopes, feelings, etc.).
[french cher dear, from latin carus]
Cherry —n. (pl. -ies) 1 a small soft round stone-fruit. B tree bearing this or
grown for its ornamental flowers. C its wood. 2 light red colour. —adj. Of light
grown for its ornamental flowers. C its wood. 2 light red colour. —adj. Of light
red colour. [greek kerasos]
Cherub n. 1 (pl. -im) angelic being of the second order of the celestial hierarchy.
2 a representation of a winged child or its head. B beautiful or innocent child.
cherubic adj. [ultimately from hebrew]
Cheshire n. A kind of firm crumbly cheese. like a cheshire cat with a broad fixed
grin. [cheshire in england]
Chess n. Game for two with 16 men each, played on a chessboard. [french:
related to *check]
Chessman n. Any of the 32 pieces and pawns with which chess is played.
Chest n. 1 large strong box. 2 a part of the body enclosed by the ribs. B front
surface of the body from the neck to the bottom of the ribs. 3 small cabinet for
medicines etc. get a thing off one’s chest colloq. Disclose a secret etc. To relieve
one’s anxiety about it. [latin cista]
Chesterfield n. Sofa with arms and back of the same height and curved outwards
Chesterfield n. Sofa with arms and back of the same height and curved outwards
at the top. [earl of chesterfield]
Chestnut —n. 1 a glossy hard brown edible nut. B tree bearing it. 2 = *horse
chestnut. 3 wood of any chestnut. 4 horse of a reddish-brown colour. 5 colloq.
Stale joke etc. 6 reddish-brown. —adj. Reddish-brown. [greek kastanea nut]
Chew —v. Work (food etc.) Between the teeth. —n. 1 act of chewing. 2 chewy
sweet. chew on 1 work continuously between the teeth. 2 think about. Chew over
1 discuss, talk over. 2 think about. [old english]
Chewy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 needing much chewing. 2 suitable for chewing.
chewiness n.
Chianti n. (pl. -s) red wine from the chianti area in italy.
Chick n. 1 young bird. 2 slang young woman. [old english: related to *chicken]
Chicken —n. 1 a domestic fowl. B its flesh as food. 2 young bird of a domestic
fowl. 3 youthful person (is no chicken). —adj. Colloq. Cowardly. —v. (foll. By
out) colloq. Withdraw through cowardice. [old english]
Chicory n. (pl. -ies) 1 plant with leaves used in salads. 2 its root, roasted and
ground and used with or instead of coffee. 3 esp. Us = *endive. [greek
kikhorion]
Chide v. (past chided or chid; past part. Chided or chidden) archaic scold,
rebuke. [old english]
Chief —n. 1 a leader or ruler. B head of a tribe, clan, etc. 2 head of a
department; highest official. —adj. 1 first in position, importance, influence, etc.
2 prominent, leading. [latin caput head]
Chieftain n. Leader of a tribe, clan, etc. chieftaincy n. (pl. -ies). [latin: related to
*chief]
Chiffon n. Light diaphanous fabric of silk, nylon, etc. [french chiffe rag]
Child n. (pl. Children) 1 a young human being below the age of puberty. B
unborn or newborn human being. 2 one’s son or daughter. 3 (foll. By of)
descendant, follower, or product of. 4 childish person. childless adj. [old english]
Childish adj. 1 of, like, or proper to a child. 2 immature, silly. childishly adv.
Childishness n.
Childlike adj. Having the good qualities of a child, such as innocence, frankness,
etc.
Chilli n. (also chili) (pl. -es) hot-tasting dried red capsicum pod. [spanish from
aztec]
Chilly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 somewhat cold. 2 sensitive to the cold. 3 unfriendly;
unemotional.
Chime —n. 1 set of attuned bells. 2 sounds made by this. —v. (-ming) 1 (of
bells) ring. 2 show (the time) by chiming. 3 (usu. Foll. By together, with) be in
Chimera n. 1 (in greek mythology) monster with a lion’s head, goat’s body, and
serpent’s tail. 2 bogey. 3 wild or fantastic conception. chimerical adj. [latin from
greek]
Chimney n. (pl. -s) 1 channel conducting smoke etc. Up and away from a fire,
engine, etc. 2 part of this above a roof. 3 glass tube protecting the flame of a
lamp. 4 narrow vertical crack in a rock-face. [latin caminus oven, from greek]
Chin n. Front of the lower jaw. keep one’s chin up colloq. Remain cheerful.
Take on the chin suffer a severe blow from; endure courageously. [old english]
Take on the chin suffer a severe blow from; endure courageously. [old english]
China —n. 1 fine white or translucent ceramic ware, porcelain, etc. 2 things
made of this. —adj. Made of china. [china in asia]
Chinchilla n. 1 a small s. American rodent. B its soft grey fur. 2 breed of cat or
rabbit. [spanish chinche bug]
Chine —n. 1 a backbone. B joint of meat containing all or part of this. 2 ridge.
—v. (-ning) cut (meat) through the backbone. [latin spina *spine]
Chink2 —v. (cause to) make a sound like glasses or coins striking together. —n.
This sound. [imitative]
Chintz n. Printed multicoloured usu. Glazed cotton fabric. [hindi from sanskrit]
Chintzy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like chintz. 2 gaudy, cheap. 3 characteristic of décor
associated with chintz soft furnishings.
Chip —n. 1 small piece removed by chopping etc. 2 place or mark where a piece
has been broken off. 3 a strip of potato, usu. Deep-fried. B us potato crisp. 4
counter used in some games to represent money. 5 = *microchip. —v. (-pp-) 1
(often foll. By off, away) cut or break (a piece) from a hard material. 2 (often
foll. By at, away at) cut pieces off (a hard material) to alter its shape etc. 3 be apt
to break at the edge. 4 (usu. As chipped adj.) Make (potatoes) into chips. chip in
colloq. 1 interrupt. 2 contribute (money etc.). A chip off the old block child
resembling its parent, esp. In character. A chip on one’s shoulder colloq.
Inclination to feel resentful or aggrieved. When the chips are down colloq. When
it comes to the point. [old english]
Chiropody n. Treatment of the feet and their ailments. chiropodist n. [greek pous
podos foot]
Chirp —v. 1 (of small birds, grasshoppers, etc.) Utter a short sharp note. 2 speak
or utter merrily. —n. Chirping sound. [imitative]
Chirpy adj. Colloq. (-ier, -iest) cheerful, lively. chirpily adv. Chirpiness n.
Chirrup —v. (-p-) chirp, esp. Repeatedly. —n. Chirruping sound. [imitative]
Chisel —n. Hand tool with a squared bevelled blade for shaping wood, stone, or
metal. —v. 1 (-ll-; us -l-) cut or shape with a chisel. 2 (as chiselled adj.) (of
facial features) clear-cut, fine. 3 slang cheat. [latin caedo cut]
Chit1 n. 1 derog. Or joc. Young small woman (esp. A chit of a girl). 2 young
child. [originally = whelp, cub]
Chivalry n. 1 medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code.
2 honour, courtesy, and readiness to help the weak. chivalric adj.
2 honour, courtesy, and readiness to help the weak. chivalric adj.
Chive n. Small plant with long onion-flavoured leaves. [latin cepa onion]
Chivvy v. (-ies, -ied) urge persistently, nag. [probably from ballad of chevy
chase]
Chloral n. 1 colourless liquid aldehyde used in making ddt. 2 (in full chloral
hydrate) pharm. Crystalline solid made from this and used as a sedative. [french:
related to chlorine, alcohol]
Chlorine n. Poisonous gaseous element used for purifying water etc. [greek
khloros green]
Chlorophyll n. Green pigment found in most plants. [greek khloros green,
phullon leaf]
Chock —n. Block or wedge to check the motion of a wheel etc. —v. Make fast
with chocks. [french]
Chocolate —n. 1 a food preparation in the form of a paste or solid block made
from ground cacao seeds and usu. Sweetened. B sweet made of or coated with
this. C drink containing this. 2 deep brown. —adj. 1 made from chocolate. 2
deep brown. [aztec chocolatl]
Choice —n. 1 a act of choosing. B thing or person chosen. 2 range from which
to choose. 3 power or opportunity to choose. —adj. Of superior quality.
[germanic: related to *choose]
Choler n. 1 hist. One of the four humours, bile. 2 poet. Or archaic anger,
irascibility. [greek khole bile]
Cholera n. Infectious often fatal bacterial disease of the small intestine. [related
to *choler]
Cholesterol n. Sterol found in most body tissues, including the blood where high
concentrations promote arteriosclerosis. [from *choler, greek stereos stiff]
Choose v. (-sing; past chose; past part. Chosen) 1 select out of a greater number.
2 (usu. Foll. By between, from) take or select one or another. 3 (usu. Foll. By to
+ infin.) Decide, be determined. 4 select as (was chosen leader). nothing (or
little) to choose between them they are very similar. [old english]
Chop1 —v. (-pp-) 1 (usu. Foll. By off, down, etc.) Cut or fell by the blow of an
axe etc. 2 (often foll. By up) cut into small pieces. 3 strike (esp. A ball) with a
short heavy edgewise blow. —n. 1 cutting blow. 2 thick slice of meat (esp. Pork
or lamb) usu. Including a rib. 3 short chopping stroke in cricket etc. 4 (prec. By
the) slang a = sack1 n. 2. B killing or being killed. [related to chap2]
Chop3 v. (-pp-) chop and change vacillate; change direction frequently. Chop
logic argue pedantically. [perhaps related to *cheap]
Choppy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of the sea etc.) Fairly rough. choppily adv. Choppiness
n. [from *chop1]
Chopstick n. Each of a pair of sticks held in one hand as eating utensils by the
chinese, japanese, etc. [pidgin english from chinese, = nimble ones]
Chopsuey n. (pl. -s) chinese-style dish of meat fried with vegetables and rice.
[chinese, = mixed bits]
Choral adj. Of, for, or sung by a choir or chorus. [medieval latin: related to
*chorus]
Chorale n. 1 simple stately hymn tune; harmonized form of this. 2 esp. Us choir.
[german: related to *choral]
Chord2 n. 1 straight line joining the ends of an arc or curve. 2 poet. String of a
harp etc. strike a chord elicit sympathy. [var. Of *cord]
Chordate —n. Animal having a cartilaginous skeletal rod at some stage of its
development. —adj. Of chordates. [latin chorda *chord2 after vertebrata etc.]
Chortle —n. Gleeful chuckle. —v. (-ling) utter or express with a chortle.
[probably from *chuckle, *snort]
Chorus —n. (pl. -es) 1 group of singers; choir. 2 music composed for a choir. 3
refrain or main part of a song. 4 simultaneous utterance. 5 group of singers and
dancers performing together. 6 gk antiq. A group of performers who comment
on the action in a greek play. B utterance made by it. 7 character speaking the
prologue in a play. —v. (-s-) speak or utter simultaneously. [latin from greek]
Chough n. Bird with glossy blue-black plumage and red legs. [imitative]
Chow n. 1 slang food. 2 dog of a chinese breed with long woolly hair. [chinese
chow-chow]
chow-chow]
Chow mein n. Chinese-style dish of fried noodles with shredded meat or shrimps
etc. And vegetables. [chinese chao mian fried flour]
Christ —n. 1 title, also now treated as a name, given to jesus. 2 messiah as
prophesied in the old testament. —int. Slang expressing surprise, anger, etc.
[greek, = anointed]
Christian science n. Christian sect believing in the power of healing by prayer
alone. christian scientist n.
Christmas pudding n. Rich boiled pudding of flour, suet, dried fruit, etc.
Usage the use of chronic in sense 3 is very informal, and its use in sense 4 is
considered incorrect by some people.
Chrysalis n. (pl. -lises) 1 pupa of a butterfly or moth. 2 case enclosing it. [greek
khrusos gold]
Chubb n. (in full chubb lock) propr. Lock with a device for fixing the bolt
immovably should someone try to pick it. [chubb, name of a locksmith]
Chuck1 —v. 1 colloq. Fling or throw carelessly or casually. 2 (often foll. By in,
up) colloq. Give up; reject. 3 touch playfully, esp. Under the chin. —n. 1 playful
touch under the chin. 2 toss. the chuck slang dismissal; rejection. Chuck out
colloq. 1 expel (a person) from a gathering etc. 2 get rid of, discard. [perhaps
from french chuquer knock]
Chuck2 —n. 1 cut of beef from neck to ribs. 2 device for holding a workpiece or
bit. —v. Fix to a chuck. [var. Of *chock]
Chuckle —v. (-ling) laugh quietly or inwardly. —n. Quiet or suppressed laugh.
[chuck cluck]
Chuff v. (of an engine etc.) Work with a regular sharp puffing sound. [imitative]
Chum n. Colloq. Close friend. chum up (-mm-) (often foll. By with) become a
close friend (of). chummy adj. (-ier, -iest). Chummily adv. Chumminess n.
[abbreviation of chamber-fellow]
Chunk n. 1 thick piece cut or broken off. 2 substantial amount. [var. Of *chuck2]
Church n. 1 building for public christian worship. 2 public worship (met after
church). 3 (church) a body of all christians. B clergy or clerical profession. C
organized christian society (the early church). [greek kuriakon lord’s (house)]
organized christian society (the early church). [greek kuriakon lord’s (house)]
Chute1 n. Sloping channel or slide for sending things to a lower level. [latin cado
fall]
Chutney n. (pl. -s) pungent condiment of fruits, vinegar, spices, etc. [hindi]
Chyle n. Milky fluid of food materials formed in the intestine after digestion.
[greek khulos juice]
Chyme n. Acid pulp formed from partly-digested food. [greek khumos juice]
Cicely n. (pl. -ies) flowering plant related to parsley and chervil. [greek seselis]
Cicerone n. (pl. -roni pronunc. Same) person who guides sightseers. [latin cicero,
name of a roman statesman]
Cilium n. (pl. Cilia) 1 minute hairlike structure on the surface of many animal
cells. 2 eyelash. ciliary adj. Ciliate adj. [latin, = eyelash]
Cinch n. Colloq. 1 sure thing; certainty. 2 easy task. [spanish cincha saddle-
girth]
Cinder n. 1 residue of coal or wood etc. After burning. 2 (in pl.) Ashes. [old
english sinder = slag]
Cineraria n. Composite plant with bright flowers and ash-coloured down on its
leaves. [latin cinis -ner-ashes]
Cinnamon n. 1 aromatic spice from the bark of a se asian tree. 2 this tree. 3
yellowish-brown. [greek kinnamon]
Cinque ports n.pl. Group of (orig. Five) ports in se england with ancient
privileges. [latin quinque portus five ports]
Circadian adj. Physiol. Occurring about once per day. [from *circa, latin dies
day]
Circumcise v. (-sing) cut off the foreskin or clitoris of. circumcision n. [latin
caedo cut]
Circumflex n. (in full circumflex accent) mark (ˆ) placed over a vowel to show
contraction, length, etc. [latin: related to *flex1]
Circumscribe v. (-bing) 1 (of a line etc.) Enclose or outline. 2 lay down the limits
of; confine, restrict. 3 geom. Draw (a figure) round another, touching it at points
but not cutting it. circumscription n. [latin scribo write]
Circus n. (pl. -es) 1 travelling show of performing acrobats, clowns, animals, etc.
2 colloq. A scene of lively action. B group of people in a common activity, esp.
Sport. 3 open space in a town, where several streets converge. 4 rom. Antiq.
Arena for sports and games. [latin, = ring]
Cirrhosis n. Chronic liver disease, as a result of alcoholism etc. [greek kirrhos
tawny]
Cirrus n. (pl. Cirri) 1 white wispy cloud at high altitude. 2 tendril or appendage
of a plant or animal. [latin, = curl]
Cisalpine adj. On the south side of the alps. [latin cis-on this side of]
Cistercian —n. Monk or nun of the order founded as a stricter branch of the
benedictines. —adj. Of the cistercians. [french cîteaux in france]
Cistern n. 1 tank for storing water. 2 underground reservoir. [latin cista box,
from greek]
Cistus n. Shrub with large white or red flowers. [latin from greek]
Cite v. (-ting) 1 mention as an example etc. 2 quote (a book etc.) In support. 3
mil. Mention in dispatches. 4 summon to appear in court. [latin cieo set in
motion]
Citron n. 1 tree with large lemon-like fruits. 2 this fruit. [french from latin
*citrus]
Citrus n. (pl. -es) 1 tree of a group including the lemon, orange, and grapefruit. 2
(in full citrus fruit) fruit of such a tree. [latin]
City n. (pl. -ies) 1 large town, strictly one created by charter and containing a
cathedral. 2 (the city) a part of london governed by the lord mayor and
cathedral. 2 (the city) a part of london governed by the lord mayor and
corporation. B business part of this. C commercial circles. [latin civitas: related
to *civic]
City-state n. Esp. Hist. City that with its surrounding territory forms an
independent state.
Civet n. 1 (in full civet-cat) catlike animal of central africa. 2 strong musky
perfume obtained from it. [french ultimately from arabic]
Civic centre n. 1 area where municipal offices etc. Are situated. 2 the offices
themselves.
Civics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) The study of the rights and duties of
citizenship.
Civil disobedience n. Refusal to comply with certain laws as a peaceful protest.
Civil engineer n. One who designs or maintains roads, bridges, dams, etc.
Civilian —n. Person not in the armed services or police force. —adj. Of or for
civilians.
Civil list n. Annual allowance voted by parliament for the royal family’s
household expenses.
Cl symb. Chlorine.
Cl abbr. Centilitre(s).
Clack —v. 1 make a sharp sound as of boards struck together. 2 chatter. —n.
Clacking noise or talk. [imitative]
Cladding n. Covering or coating on a structure or material etc.
Cladistics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Biol. Method of classifying animals and
plants on the basis of shared characteristics. [greek klados branch]
Clam —n. Edible bivalve mollusc. —v. (-mm-) (foll. By up) colloq. Refuse to
talk. [related to *clamp1]
Clamber —v. Climb laboriously using hands and feet. —n. Difficult climb.
[from *climb]
Clammy adj. (-ier, -iest) unpleasantly damp and sticky. clammily adv.
Clamminess n. [clam to daub]
Clamp1 —n. 1 device, esp. A brace or band of iron etc., for strengthening or
holding things together. 2 device for immobilizing an illegally parked vehicle.
—v. 1 strengthen or fasten with a clamp; fix firmly. 2 immobilize (a vehicle)
with a clamp. clamp down (usu. Foll. By on) become stricter (about); suppress.
[low german or dutch]
Clamp2 n. Potatoes etc. Stored under straw or earth. [dutch: related to *clump]
Clang —n. Loud resonant metallic sound. —v. (cause to) make a clang.
[imitative: cf. Latin clango resound]
Clank —n. Sound as of metal on metal. —v. (cause to) make a clank. [imitative]
Clannish adj. Often derog. (of a family or group) associating closely with each
other; inward-looking.
Clap1 —v. (-pp-) 1 a strike the palms of one’s hands together, esp. Repeatedly
as applause. B strike (the hands) together in this way. 2 applaud thus. 3 put or
place quickly or with determination (clapped him in prison; clap a tax on
whisky). 4 (foll. By on) give a friendly slap (clapped him on the back). —n. 1 act
of clapping, esp. As applause. 2 explosive sound, esp. Of thunder. 3 slap, pat.
clap eyes on colloq. See. [old english]
Clapper n. Tongue or striker of a bell. like the clappers slang very fast or hard.
Clarify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make or become clearer. 2 a free (liquid etc.) From
impurities. B make transparent. clarification n. [latin: related to *clear]
Clarity n. Clearness.
Clash —n. 1 a loud jarring sound as of metal objects struck together. B collision.
2 a conflict. B discord of colours etc. —v. 1 (cause to) make a clashing sound. 2
collide; coincide awkwardly. 3 (often foll. By with) a come into conflict or be at
variance. B (of colours) be discordant. [imitative]
Clasp —n. 1 device with interlocking parts for fastening. 2 a embrace. B grasp,
handshake. 3 bar on a medal-ribbon. —v. 1 fasten with or as with a clasp. 2 a
grasp, hold closely. B embrace. [old english]
Clasp-knife n. Folding knife, usu. With a catch to hold the blade open.
Classical adj. 1 a of ancient greek or roman literature or art. B (of a language)
having the form used by ancient standard authors. 2 (of music) serious or
conventional, or of the period from c.1750–1800. 3 restrained in style.
classicality n. Classically adv.
Classy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Superior, stylish. classily adv. Classiness n.
Clatter —n. Sound as of hard objects struck together. —v. (cause to) make a
clatter. [old english]
Clause 28 n. Clause in the local government bill (and later act) banning local
Clause 28 n. Clause in the local government bill (and later act) banning local
authorities from promoting homosexuality.
Clavichord n. Small keyboard instrument with a very soft tone. [medieval latin:
related to *clavicle]
Claw —n. 1 a pointed nail on an animal’s foot. B foot armed with claws. 2
pincers of a shellfish. 3 device for grappling, holding, etc. —v. Scratch, maul, or
pull with claws or fingernails. [old english]
Claw-hammer n. Hammer with one side of the head forked for extracting nails.
Claw-hammer n. Hammer with one side of the head forked for extracting nails.
Clay n. 1 stiff sticky earth, used for making bricks, pottery, etc. 2 poet.
Substance of the human body. clayey adj. [old english]
Clay pigeon n. Breakable disc thrown up from a trap as a target for shooting.
Clean —adj. 1 free from dirt or impurities, unsoiled. 2 clear; unused; pristine
(clean air; clean page). 3 not obscene or indecent. 4 attentive to personal hygiene
and cleanliness. 5 complete, clear-cut. 6 showing no record of crime, disease,
etc. 7 fair (a clean fight). 8 streamlined; well-formed. 9 adroit, skilful. 10 (of a
nuclear weapon) producing relatively little fallout. —adv. 1 completely, outright,
simply. 2 in a clean manner. —v. Make or become clean. —n. Act or process of
cleaning. clean out 1 clean thoroughly. 2 slang empty or deprive (esp. Of
money). Clean up 1 a clear away (a mess). B (also absol.) Put (things) tidy. C
make (oneself) clean. 2 restore order or morality to. 3 slang acquire as or make a
profit. Come clean colloq. Confess fully. Make a clean breast of see *breast. [old
english]
Clean-cut adj. 1 sharply outlined or defined. 2 (of a person) clean and tidy.
Cleanly2 adj. (-ier, -iest) habitually clean; with clean habits. cleanliness n.
Clear —adj. 1 free from dirt or contamination. 2 (of weather, the sky, etc.) Not
dull. 3 transparent. 4 a easily perceived; distinct; evident (a clear voice; it is clear
that). B easily understood. 5 discerning readily and accurately (clear mind). 6
confident, convinced. 7 (of a conscience) free from guilt. 8 (of a road etc.)
Unobstructed. 9 a net, without deduction. B complete (three clear days). 10
(often foll. By of) free, unhampered; unencumbered. —adv. 1 clearly. 2
completely (got clear away). 3 apart, out of contact (keep clear). —v. 1 make or
become clear. 2 (often foll. By of) make or become free from obstruction etc. 3
(often foll. By of) show (a person) to be innocent. 4 approve (a person etc.) For a
special duty, access, etc. 5 pass over or by, safely or without touching. 6 make
(an amount of money) as a net gain or to balance expenses. 7 pass (a cheque)
through a clearing-house. 8 pass through (customs etc.). 9 disappear (mist
cleared). clear the air remove suspicion, tension, etc. Clear away 1 remove (esp.
Dishes etc.). 2 disappear. Clear the decks prepare for action. Clear off colloq. Go
away. Clear out 1 empty, tidy by emptying. 2 remove. 3 colloq. Go away. Clear
up 1 tidy up. 2 solve. 3 (of weather) become fine. 4 disappear (cold has cleared
up). Clear a thing with get approval or authorization for it from (a person). In the
clear free from suspicion or difficulty. clearly adj. Clearness n. [latin clarus]
Clearance n. 1 removal of obstructions etc. 2 space allowed for the passing of
two objects or parts in machinery etc. 3 special authorization. 4 a clearing by
customs. B certificate showing this. 5 clearing of cheques. 6 clearing out.
Clearway n. Main road (other than a motorway) on which vehicles may not
normally stop.
Cleat n. 1 piece of metal, wood, etc., bolted on for fastening ropes to, or to
strengthen woodwork etc. 2 projecting piece on a spar, gangway, etc. To prevent
slipping. [old english]
Cleave1 v. (-ving; past clove or cleft or cleaved; past part. Cloven or cleft or
cleaved) literary 1 chop or break apart; split, esp. Along the grain or line of
cleavage. 2 make one’s way through (air or water). [old english]
Cleave2 v. (-ving) (foll. By to) literary stick fast; adhere. [old english]
Clef n. Mus. Symbol indicating the pitch of notes on a staff. [latin clavis key]
Clench —v. 1 close (the teeth, fingers, etc.) Tightly. 2 grasp firmly. —n.
Clenching action; clenched state. [old english]
Clergy n. (pl. -ies) (usu. Treated as pl.) Those ordained for religious duties.
[french (related to *cleric) and church latin]
Cleric n. Member of the clergy. [greek klerikos from kleros lot, heritage]
Clerk —n. 1 person employed to keep records, accounts, etc. 2 secretary or agent
of a local council, court, etc. 3 lay officer of a church. —v. Work as clerk. [old
english and french: related to *cleric]
Clever adj. (-er, -est) 1 skilful, talented; quick to understand and learn. 2 adroit,
dexterous. 3 ingenious. cleverly adv. Cleverness n. [old english]
Click —n. Slight sharp sound. —v. 1 (cause to) make a click. 2 colloq. A
become clear or understood. B be popular. C (foll. By with) strike up a rapport.
[imitative]
Climacteric n. Period of life when fertility and sexual activity are in decline.
[greek: related to *climax]
Climb —v. 1 (often foll. By up) ascend, mount, go or come up. 2 grow up a wall
etc. By clinging or twining. 3 progress, esp. In social rank. —n. 1 ascent by
climbing. 2 hill etc. Climbed or to be climbed. climb down 1 descend, esp. Using
hands. 2 withdraw from a stance taken up in an argument etc. climber n. [old
english]
Clinch —v. 1 confirm or settle (an argument, bargain, etc.) Conclusively. 2 (of
Clinch —v. 1 confirm or settle (an argument, bargain, etc.) Conclusively. 2 (of
boxers etc.) Become too closely engaged. 3 secure (a nail or rivet) by driving the
point sideways when through. —n. 1 a clinching action. B clinched state. 2
colloq. Embrace. [var. Of *clench]
Cling v. (past and past part. Clung) 1 (often foll. By to) adhere. 2 (foll. By to) be
unwilling to give up; be emotionally dependent on (a habit, idea, friend, etc.). 3
(often foll. By to) maintain grasp; keep hold; resist separation. clingy adj. (-ier, -
iest). [old english]
Clink1 —n. Sharp ringing sound. —v. (cause to) make a clink. [dutch: imitative]
Clinker n. 1 mass of slag or lava. 2 stony residue from burnt coal. [dutch: related
to *clink1]
Clinker-built adj. (of a boat) having external planks overlapping downwards and
secured with clinched nails. [clink, northern english var. Of *clinch]
Clip1 —n. 1 device for holding things together or for attaching something. 2
piece of jewellery fastened by a clip. 3 set of attached cartridges for a firearm. —
v. (-pp-) fix with a clip. [old english]
Clip2 —v. (-pp-) 1 cut (hair, wool, etc.) Short with shears or scissors. 2 trim or
remove the hair or wool of. 3 colloq. Hit smartly. 4 a omit (a letter etc.) From a
word. B omit letters or syllables of (words uttered). 5 punch a hole in (a ticket)
to show it has been used. 6 cut from a newspaper etc. 7 slang swindle, rob. —n.
1 act of clipping. 2 colloq. Smart blow. 3 sequence from a motion picture. 4
yield of wool etc. 5 colloq. Speed, esp. Rapid. [old norse]
Clipboard n. Small board with a spring clip for holding papers etc.
Clipper n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Instrument for clipping hair etc. 2 hist. Fast sailing-ship.
Clitoris n. Small erectile part of the female genitals at the upper end of the vulva.
clitoral adj. [latin from greek]
Cloak —n. 1 outdoor usu. Long and sleeveless over-garment. 2 covering (cloak
of snow). —v. 1 cover with a cloak. 2 conceal, disguise. under the cloak of using
as pretext. [ultimately from medieval latin clocca bell]
Clobber1 v. Slang 1 hit; beat up. 2 defeat. 3 criticize severely. [origin unknown]
Cloche n. 1 small translucent cover for protecting outdoor plants. 2 (in full
cloche hat) woman’s close-fitting bell-shaped hat. [french, = bell, medieval latin
clocca]
Clock1 —n. 1 instrument for measuring and showing time. 2 a measuring device
resembling this. B colloq. Speedometer, taximeter, or stopwatch. 3 slang
person’s face. 4 seed-head of the dandelion. —v. 1 colloq. A (often foll. By up)
attain or register (a stated time, distance, or speed). B time (a race) with a
stopwatch. 2 slang hit. clock in (or on) register one’s arrival at work. Clock off
(or out) register one’s departure from work. Round the clock all day and (usu.)
Night. [medieval latin clocca bell]
Clock2 n. Ornamental pattern on the side of a stocking or sock near the ankle.
[origin unknown]
Clockwise adj. & adv. In a curve corresponding in direction to that of the hands
of a clock.
Clog —n. Shoe with a thick wooden sole. —v. (-gg-) 1 (often foll. By up)
obstruct or become obstructed; choke. 2 impede. [origin unknown]
Clonk —n. Abrupt heavy sound of impact. —v. 1 make this sound. 2 colloq. Hit.
[imitative]
Close2 —v. (-sing) 1 a shut. B block up. 2 bring or come to an end. 3 end the
day’s business. 4 bring or come closer or into contact. 5 make (an electric circuit
etc.) Continuous. —n. Conclusion, end. close down (of a shop etc.) Discontinue
business. Close in 1 enclose. 2 come nearer. 3 (of days) get successively shorter.
Close up 1 (often foll. By to) move closer. 2 shut. 3 block up. 4 (of an aperture)
grow smaller. [latin: related to *close1]
Closed shop n. Business etc. Where employees must belong to a specified trade
union.
Close harmony n. Harmony in which the notes of a chord are close together.
Closure n. 1 closing. 2 closed state. 3 procedure for ending a debate and taking a
vote. [latin: related to *close2]
Clot —n. 1 thick mass of coagulated liquid etc., esp. Of blood. 2 colloq. Foolish
person. —v. (-tt-) form into clots. [old english]
Cloth n. 1 woven or felted material. 2 piece of this, esp. For a particular purpose;
tablecloth, dishcloth, etc. 3 fabric for clothes. 4 a status, esp. Of the clergy, as
shown by clothes. B (prec. By the) the clergy. [old english]
Clothe v. (-thing; past and past part. Clothed or formal clad) 1 put clothes on;
provide with clothes. 2 cover as with clothes. [old english]
Clothes n.pl. 1 garments worn to cover the body and limbs. 2 bedclothes. [old
english]
Clothes-line n. Rope etc. On which clothes are hung to dry.
Cloud —n. 1 visible mass of condensed watery vapour floating high above the
ground. 2 mass of smoke or dust. 3 (foll. By of) mass of insects etc. Moving
together. 4 state of gloom, trouble, or suspicion. —v. 1 cover or darken with
clouds or gloom or trouble. 2 (often foll. By over, up) become overcast or
gloomy. 3 make unclear. on cloud nine colloq. Extremely happy. Under a cloud
out of favour, under suspicion. With one’s head in the clouds day-dreaming.
cloudless adj. [old english]
Cloud chamber n. Device containing vapour for tracking the paths of charged
particles, x-rays, and gamma rays.
Cloudy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of the sky, weather) covered with clouds, overcast. 2
not transparent; unclear. cloudily adv. Cloudiness n.
Clout —n. 1 heavy blow. 2 colloq. Influence, power of effective action. 3 dial.
Piece of cloth or clothing. —v. Hit hard. [old english]
Clove1 n. Dried bud of a tropical plant used as a spice. [latin clavus nail (from
its shape)]
Clove hitch n. Knot by which a rope is secured to a spar etc. [clove, old past
part. Of *cleave1]
Cloven hoof n. (also cloven foot) divided hoof, esp. Of oxen, sheep, or goats, or
of the devil.
Clover n. Trefoil fodder plant. in clover in ease and luxury. [old english]
Clown —n. 1 comic entertainer, esp. In a circus. 2 foolish or playful person. —v.
(often foll. By about, around) behave like a clown. [origin uncertain]
Cloy v. Satiate or sicken with sweetness, richness, etc. [obsolete acloy from
anglo-french: related to *enclave]
Club —n. 1 heavy stick with a thick end, esp. As a weapon. 2 stick with a head
used in golf. 3 association of persons meeting periodically for a shared activity.
4 organization or premises offering members social amenities, meals, temporary
residence, etc. 5 a playing-card of the suit denoted by a black trefoil. B (in pl.)
This suit. 6 commercial organization offering subscribers special deals (book
club). —v. (-bb-) 1 beat with or as with a club. 2 (foll. By together, with)
combine, esp. To raise a sum of money for a purpose. [old norse]
Club class n. Class of fare on an aircraft etc. Designed for business travellers.
Club-root n. Disease of cabbages etc. With swelling at the base of the stem.
Club sandwich n. Sandwich with two layers of filling between three slices of
toast or bread.
Cluck —n. Guttural cry like that of a hen. —v. Emit cluck(s). [imitative]
Clue —n. 1 fact or idea that serves as a guide, or suggests a line of inquiry, in a
problem or investigation. 2 piece of evidence etc. In the detection of a crime. 3
verbal formula as a hint to what is to be inserted in a crossword. —v. (clues,
clued, cluing or clueing) provide a clue to. clue in (or up) slang inform. Not have
a clue colloq. Be ignorant or incompetent. [var. Of old english clew]
Clump —n. (foll. By of) cluster or mass, esp. Of trees. —v. 1 a form a clump. B
heap or plant together. 2 (also clomp) walk with a heavy tread. [low german or
dutch]
Clunk —n. Dull sound as of thick pieces of metal meeting. —v. Make such a
sound. [imitative]
Clutch1 —v. 1 seize eagerly; grasp tightly. 2 (foll. By at) try desperately to
seize. —n. 1 tight grasp. 2 (in pl.) Grasping hands; cruel or relentless grasp or
control. 3 a (in a vehicle) device for connecting and disconnecting the engine
and the transmission. B pedal operating this. [old english]
Clutch2 n. 1 set of eggs for hatching. 2 brood of chickens. [old norse, = hatch]
Clutter —n. 1 crowded and untidy collection of things. 2 untidy state. —v. (often
foll. By up, with) crowd untidily, fill with clutter. [related to *clot]
Cm symb. Curium.
Cm abbr. Centimetre(s).
Co symb. Cobalt.
Co-prefix added to: 1 nouns, with the sense ‘joint, mutual, common’ (co-author;
coequality). 2 adjectives and adverbs, with the sense ‘jointly, mutually’
(coequal). 3 verbs, with the sense ‘together with another or others’ (cooperate).
[var. Of *com-]
Coach —n. 1 single-decker bus, usu. Comfortably equipped for long journeys. 2
railway carriage. 3 closed horse-drawn carriage. 4 a instructor or trainer in a
sport. B private tutor. —v. Train or teach as a coach. [french from magyar]
Coal n. 1 hard black rock, mainly carbonized plant matter, found underground
and used as a fuel. 2 piece of this, esp. One that is burning. coals to newcastle
something brought to a place where it is already plentiful. Haul (or call) over the
coals reprimand. [old english]
Coal gas n. Mixed gases formerly extracted from coal and used for lighting and
heating.
Coalman n. Man who carries or delivers coal.
Coal tar n. Thick black oily liquid distilled from coal and used as a source of
benzene.
Coaming n. Raised border round a ship’s hatches etc. To keep out water. [origin
unknown]
Coast —n. Border of land near the sea; seashore. —v. 1 ride or move, usu.
Coast —n. Border of land near the sea; seashore. —v. 1 ride or move, usu.
Downhill, without the use of power. 2 make progress without much effort. 3 sail
along the coast. the coast is clear there is no danger of being observed or caught.
coastal adj. [latin costa side]
Coaster n. 1 ship that travels along the coast. 2 small tray or mat for a bottle or
glass.
Coat —n. 1 outer garment with sleeves, usu. Extending below the hips; overcoat
or jacket. 2 animal’s fur or hair. 3 covering of paint etc. Laid on a surface at one
time. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By with, in) cover with a coat or layer. 2 (of paint etc.)
Form a covering to. [french from germanic]
Coaxial adj. 1 having a common axis. 2 electr. (of a cable or line) transmitting
by means of two concentric conductors separated by an insulator.
Cobble1 —n. (in full cobblestone) small rounded stone used for paving. —v. (-
ling) pave with cobbles. [from *cob]
Cobbler n. 1 person who mends shoes professionally. 2 stewed fruit topped with
Cobbler n. 1 person who mends shoes professionally. 2 stewed fruit topped with
scones. 3 (in pl.) Slang nonsense. [origin unknown]
Cobra n. Venomous hooded snake of africa and asia. [latin colubra snake]
Coccyx n. (pl. Coccyges) small triangular bone at the base of the spinal column.
[greek, = cuckoo (from shape of its bill)]
Cochineal n. 1 scarlet dye used esp. For colouring food. 2 insects whose dried
bodies yield this. [latin coccinus scarlet, from greek]
Cock1 —n. 1 male bird, esp. Of the domestic fowl. 2 slang (as a form of
address) friend; fellow. 3 coarse slang penis. 4 slang nonsense. 5 a firing lever in
a gun, raised to be released by the trigger. B cocked position of this. 6 tap or
valve controlling flow. —v. 1 raise or make upright or erect. 2 turn or move (the
valve controlling flow. —v. 1 raise or make upright or erect. 2 turn or move (the
eye or ear) attentively or knowingly.
Cockade n. Rosette etc. Worn in the hat as a badge. [french: related to *cock1]
Cocker n. (in full cocker spaniel) small spaniel with a silky coat. [related to
*cock1]
Cock-eyed adj. Colloq. 1 crooked, askew. 2 absurd, not practical. [from *cock1]
Cockle n. 1 a edible bivalve shellfish. B its shell. 2 (in full cockle-shell) small
shallow boat. 3 pucker or wrinkle in paper, glass, etc. warm the cockles of one’s
heart make one contented. [french coquille from greek: related to *conch]
Cockney —n. (pl. -s) 1 native of london, esp. Of the east end. 2 dialect or accent
used there. —adj. Of cockneys or their dialect. [cokeney ‘cock’s egg’]
Cocktail stick n. Small pointed stick for serving an olive, cherry, etc.
Cocky adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Conceited, arrogant. cockily adv. Cockiness n.
[from *cock1]
Cocoa n. 1 powder made from crushed cacao seeds, often with other ingredients.
2 drink made from this. [altered from *cacao]
Coconut n. Large brown seed of the coco, with a hard shell and edible white
Coconut n. Large brown seed of the coco, with a hard shell and edible white
lining enclosing milky juice.
Cocoon —n. 1 silky case spun by insect larvae for protection as pupae. 2
protective covering. —v. Wrap or coat in a cocoon. [provençal coca shell]
Cocotte n. Small fireproof dish for cooking and serving an individual portion.
[french]
Cod2 slang —n. 1 parody. 2 hoax. —v. (-dd-) 1 perform a hoax. 2 parody.
[origin unknown]
Code —n. 1 system of words, letters, symbols, etc., used to represent others for
secrecy or brevity. 2 system of prearranged signals used to ensure secrecy in
transmitting messages. 3 computing piece of program text. 4 systematic set of
laws etc. 5 prevailing standard of moral behaviour. —v. (-ding) put into code.
[latin *codex]
Codeine n. Alkaloid derived from morphine, used to relieve pain. [greek kodeia
poppy-head]
Codger n. (usu. In old codger) colloq. Person, esp. A strange one. [origin
uncertain]
Codify v. (-ies, -ied) arrange (laws etc.) Systematically into a code. codification
n. Codifier n.
Codling1 n. (also codlin) 1 a kind of cooking apple. 2 moth whose larva feeds on
apples. [anglo-french quer de lion lion-heart]
Codpiece n. Hist. Bag or flap at the front of a man’s breeches. [cod scrotum]
Coed colloq. —n. 1 school for both sexes. 2 esp. Us female pupil of a coed
school. —adj. Coeducational. [abbreviation]
Coeval formal —adj. Of the same age; existing at the same time; contemporary.
—n. Coeval person or thing. coevally adv. [latin aevum age]
Coffee n. 1 a drink made from roasted and ground beanlike seeds of a tropical
shrub. B cup of this. 2 a the shrub. B its seeds. 3 pale brown. [turkish from
arabic]
Coffee bar n. Bar or café serving coffee and light refreshments from a counter.
Coffer n. 1 large strong box for valuables. 2 (in pl.) Treasury, funds. 3 sunken
panel in a ceiling etc. [latin cophinus basket]
Cognate object n. Gram. Object related in origin and sense to its verb (as in live
a good life).
Cognizant adj. (foll. By of) formal having knowledge or being aware of.
Cohabit v. (-t-) (esp. Of an unmarried couple) live together as husband and wife.
cohabitation n. Cohabitee n. [latin habito dwell]
Cohere v. (-ring) 1 (of parts or a whole) stick together, remain united. 2 (of
reasoning etc.) Be logical or consistent. [latin haereo haes-stick]
Coiff v. (usu. As coiffed adj.) Dress or arrange (the hair). [french coiffer]
Coin —n. 1 stamped disc of metal as official money. 2 (collect.) Metal money.
—v. 1 make (coins) by stamping. 2 make (metal) into coins. 3 invent (esp. A
new word or phrase). coin money make much money quickly. [latin cuneus
wedge]
Coincide v. (-ding) 1 occur at the same time. 2 occupy the same portion of space.
3 (often foll. By with) agree or be identical. [latin: related to *incident]
Coir n. Coconut fibre used for ropes, matting, etc. [malayalam kayar cord]
Coke1 —n. Solid substance left after gases have been extracted from coal. —v.
Coke1 —n. Solid substance left after gases have been extracted from coal. —v.
(-king) convert (coal) into coke. [dial. Colk core]
Col-see *com-.
Colander n. Perforated vessel used to strain off liquid in cookery. [latin colo
strain]
Cold call —n. Marketing call on a person who has previously not shown interest
in the product. —v. Visit or telephone (a person) in this way.
Cold-hearted adj. Lacking sympathy or kindness. cold-heartedly adv. Cold-
heartedness n.
Cold sore n. Inflammation and blisters in and around the mouth, caused by a
virus infection.
Coleopteron n. Insect with front wings serving as sheaths, e.g. The beetle and
weevil. coleopterous adj. [greek koleon sheath, pteron wing]
Coleslaw n. Dressed salad of sliced raw cabbage etc. [from *cole, dutch sla
salad]
Coley n. (pl. -s) any of several fish used as food, e.g. The rock-salmon. [origin
uncertain]
Collage n. Form or work of art in which various materials are fixed to a backing.
[french, = gluing]
Collar —n. 1 neckband, upright or turned over. 2 band of leather etc. Round an
animal’s neck. 3 band or ring or pipe in machinery. 4 piece of meat rolled up and
tied. —v. 1 capture, seize. 2 colloq. Accost. 3 slang appropriate. [latin collum
neck]
Collect2 n. Short prayer of the anglican or roman catholic church. [latin collecta:
related to *collect1]
Collective ownership n. Ownership of land etc., by all for the benefit of all.
Collide v. (-ding) (often foll. By with) come into collision or conflict. [latin
collido -lis-clash]
Collude v. (-ding) conspire together. collusion n. Collusive adj. [latin ludo lus-
play]
Colon2 n. Lower and greater part of the large intestine. [latin from greek]
Colonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 establish a colony in. 2 join a colony.
colonization n.
Color (brit. Colour) —n. 1 sensation produced on the eye by rays of light when
resolved as by a prism into different wavelengths. 2 one, or any mixture, of the
constituents into which light can be separated as in a spectrum or rainbow,
sometimes including (loosely) black and white. 3 colouring substance, esp.
Paint. 4 use of all colours in photography etc. 5 a pigmentation of the skin, esp.
When dark. B this as ground for discrimination. 6 ruddiness of complexion. 7 (in
pl.) Appearance or aspect (saw them in their true colours). 8 (in pl.) A coloured
ribbon or uniform etc. Worn to signify membership of a school, club, team, etc.
B flag of a regiment or ship. 9 quality, mood, or variety in music, literature, etc.
10 show of reason; pretext (lend colour to; under colour of). —v. 1 apply colour
to, esp. By painting, dyeing, etc. 2 influence. 3 misrepresent, exaggerate. 4 take
on colour; blush. show one’s true colours reveal one’s true character or
intentions. [latin color]
Colorado beetle n. Yellow and black beetle, with larva destructive to the potato
plant. [colorado in us]
Colorful adj. (brit. Colour-) 1 full of colour; bright. 2 full of interest; vivid.
colourfully adv.
Colossus n. (pl. -ssi or -ssuses) 1 statue much bigger than life size. 2 gigantic or
remarkable person etc. 3 imperial power personified. [latin from greek]
Colour (us color) —n. 1 sensation produced on the eye by rays of light when
resolved as by a prism into different wavelengths. 2 one, or any mixture, of the
constituents into which light can be separated as in a spectrum or rainbow,
sometimes including (loosely) black and white. 3 colouring substance, esp.
Paint. 4 use of all colours in photography etc. 5 a pigmentation of the skin, esp.
When dark. B this as ground for discrimination. 6 ruddiness of complexion. 7 (in
pl.) Appearance or aspect (saw them in their true colours). 8 (in pl.) A coloured
ribbon or uniform etc. Worn to signify membership of a school, club, team, etc.
B flag of a regiment or ship. 9 quality, mood, or variety in music, literature, etc.
10 show of reason; pretext (lend colour to; under colour of). —v. 1 apply colour
to, esp. By painting, dyeing, etc. 2 influence. 3 misrepresent, exaggerate. 4 take
on colour; blush. show one’s true colours reveal one’s true character or
intentions. [latin color]
Colouration var. Of *coloration.
Colourful adj. (us color-) 1 full of colour; bright. 2 full of interest; vivid.
colourfully adv.
Colour-sergeant n. Senior sergeant of an infantry company.
Colt n. 1 young male horse. 2 sport inexperienced player. coltish adj. [old
english]
Coltsfoot n. (pl. -s) wild plant with large leaves and yellow flowers.
Column n. 1 pillar, usu. Of circular section and with a base and capital. 2
column-shaped object. 3 vertical cylindrical mass of liquid or vapour. 4 vertical
division of a printed page. 5 part of a newspaper etc. Regularly devoted to a
particular subject.
Com-prefix (also co-, col-, con-, cor-) with, together, jointly, altogether. [latin
com-, cum with]
Usage com-is used before b, m, p, and occasionally before vowels and f; co-esp.
Before vowels, h, and gn; col-before l, cor-before r, and con-before other
consonants.
Comb —n. 1 a toothed strip of rigid material for tidying the hair. B similar
curved decorative strip worn in the hair. 2 thing like a comb, esp. A device for
tidying and straightening wool etc. 3 red fleshy crest of a fowl, esp. A cock. 4
honeycomb. —v. 1 draw a comb through (the hair). 2 dress (wool etc.) With a
comb. 3 colloq. Search (a place) thoroughly. comb out 1 arrange (the hair)
loosely by combing. 2 remove with a comb. 3 search out and get rid of. [old
english]
Combat —n. Fight, struggle, contest. —v. (-t-) 1 engage in combat (with). 2
oppose; strive against. [latin: related to *battle]
Combe var. Of *coomb.
Combine —v. (-ning) 1 join together; unite for a common purpose. 2 possess
(qualities usually distinct) together. 3 form or cause to form a chemical
compound. 4 harvest with a combine harvester. —n. 1 combination of esp.
Commercial interests. 2 (in full combine harvester) machine that reaps and
threshes in one operation. [latin bini a pair]
Combo n. (pl. -s) slang small jazz or dance band. [abbreviation of *combination]
Combustion n. 1 burning. 2 development of light and heat from the chemical
combination of a substance with oxygen.
Come —v. (-ming; past came; past part. Come) 1 move, be brought towards, or
reach a place. 2 reach a specified situation or result (came to no harm). 3 reach
or extend to a specified point. 4 traverse or accomplish (with compl.: have come
a long way). 5 occur, happen; (of time) arrive in due course (how did you come
to break your leg?; the day soon came). 6 take or occupy a specified position in
space or time (nero came after claudius). 7 become perceptible or known (it will
come to me). 8 be available (comes in three sizes). 9 become (come loose). 10
(foll. By from, of) a be descended from. B be the result of (that comes of
complaining). 11 colloq. Play the part of; behave like (don’t come the bully with
me). 12 slang have an orgasm. 13 (in subjunctive) colloq. When a specified time
is reached (come next month). 14 (as int.) Expressing mild protest or
encouragement (come, it cannot be that bad). —n. Slang semen ejaculated. come
about happen. Come across 1 meet or find by chance. 2 colloq. Be effective or
understood; give a specified impression. Come again colloq. 1 make a further
effort.
Comedy n. (pl. -ies) 1 a play, film, etc., of amusing character, usu. With a happy
ending. B such works as a dramatic genre. 2 humour; amusing aspects. comedic
adj. [greek: related to *comic]
Comedy of manners n. Satirical play portraying the social behaviour of the upper
classes.
Comer n. Person who comes as an applicant etc. (offered it to the first comer).
Comet n. Hazy object moving in a path about the sun, usu. With a nucleus of ice
surrounded by gas and with a tail pointing away from the sun. [greek kometes]
Comfort —n. 1 a state of physical well-being. B (usu. In pl.) Things that make
life easy or pleasant. 2 relief of suffering or grief, consolation. 3 person or thing
giving consolation. —v. Soothe in grief; console. [latin fortis strong]
Comfortable adj. 1 giving ease. 2 free from discomfort; at ease. 3 having an easy
conscience. 4 a having an adequate standard of living; free from financial worry.
B sufficient (comfortable income). 5 a with a wide margin (comfortable win). B
appreciable (comfortable margin). comfortably adv.
Comfrey n. (pl. -s) tall bell-flowered plant growing in damp, shady places.
[french from latin]
Command —v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin., or that + clause) give a formal order
or instruction to. 2 (also absol.) Have authority or control over. 3 have at one’s
disposal or within reach (a skill, resources, etc.). 4 deserve and get (sympathy,
respect, etc.). 5 dominate (a strategic position) from a superior height; look down
over. —n. 1 order, instruction. 2 mastery, control, possession. 3 exercise or
tenure of authority, esp. Naval or military. 4 a body of troops etc. B district
under a commander. [latin: related to *mandate]
Commandeer v. 1 seize (esp. Goods) for military use. 2 take arbitrary possession
of. [afrikaans kommanderen]
of. [afrikaans kommanderen]
Commensurable adj. 1 (often foll. By with, to) measurable by the same standard.
2 (foll. By to) proportionate to. 3 math. (of numbers) in a ratio equal to the ratio
of integers. commensurability n. [latin: related to *measure]
Commensurate adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By with) coextensive. 2 (often foll. By to, with)
proportionate.
Commercialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 exploit or spoil for profit. 2 make
commercial. commercialization n.
Commissariat n. 1 esp. Mil. A department for the supply of food etc. B food
supplied. 2 hist. Government department of the ussr. [related to *commissary]
Commissary n. (pl. -ies) 1 deputy, delegate. 2 us mil. Store for supplies of food
etc. [latin: related to *commit]
Commission —n. 1 a authority to perform a task etc. B person(s) entrusted with
such authority. C task etc. Given to such person(s). 2 order for something to be
produced specially. 3 a warrant conferring the rank of officer in the armed
forces. B rank so conferred. 4 pay or percentage paid to an agent. 5 act of
committing (a crime etc.). —v. 1 empower by commission.
Commission-agent n. Bookmaker.
Commit v. (-tt-) 1 do or make (a crime, blunder, etc.). 2 (usu. Foll. By to) entrust
or consign for safe keeping or treatment. 3 send (a person) to prison. 4 pledge or
bind (esp. Oneself) to a certain course or policy. 5 (as committed adj.) (often
foll. By to) a dedicated. B obliged. commit to memory memorize. Commit to
paper write down. [latin committo -miss-]
Common —adj. (-er, -est) 1 a occurring often. B ordinary; without special rank
or position. 2 a shared by, coming from, more than one (common knowledge). B
belonging to the whole community; public. 3 derog. Low-class; vulgar; inferior.
4 of the most familiar type (common cold). 5 math. Belonging to two or more
quantities (common denominator). 6 gram. (of gender) referring to individuals of
either sex. —n. 1 piece of open public land. 2 slang = *common sense. in
common 1 in joint use; shared. 2 of joint interest. In common with in the same
way as. [latin communis]
way as. [latin communis]
Commonalty n. (pl. -ies) 1 the common people. 2 the general body (esp. Of
mankind). [medieval latin: related to *common]
Commoner n. 1 one of the common people (below the rank of peer). 2 university
student without a scholarship. [medieval latin: related to *common]
Commonplace —adj. Lacking originality; trite; ordinary. —n. 1 event, topic, etc.
That is ordinary or usual. 2 trite remark. [translation of latin locus communis]
Communication n. 1 a communicating or being communicated. B information
etc. Communicated. C letter, message, etc. 2 connection or means of access. 3
social dealings. 4 (in pl.) Science and practice of transmitting information.
Community n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of people living in one place, district, or country.
2 body of people having religion, ethnic origin, profession, etc., in common. 3
fellowship (community of interest). 4 commune. 5 joint ownership or liability.
[latin: related to *common]
Usage the community charge, or poll tax, replaced household rates in 1989-90
and is itself to be replaced by a council tax in 1993.
Commute v. (-ting) 1 travel some distance to and from work. 2 (usu. Foll. By to)
change (a punishment) to one less severe. 3 (often foll. By into, for) change (one
kind of payment or obligation) for another. 4 exchange. commutable adj.
Commutation n. [latin muto change]
Usage use of comparable with to and with corresponds to the senses of compare:
to is more common.
Compare —v. (-ring) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) express similarities in; liken. 2 (often
foll. By to, with) estimate the similarity of. 3 (often foll. By with) bear
foll. By to, with) estimate the similarity of. 3 (often foll. By with) bear
comparison. 4 gram. Form comparative and superlative degrees of (an adjective
or adverb). —n. Literary comparison (beyond compare). compare notes
exchange ideas or opinions. [latin compar equal]
Usage in current use, to and with are generally interchangeable, but with often
implies a greater element of formal analysis.
Compassion n. Pity inclining one to help or be merciful. [church latin: related to
*passion]
Compère —n. Person who introduces a variety show etc. —v. (-ring) act as
compère (to). [french, = godfather]
Compete v. (-ting) 1 take part in a contest etc. 2 (often foll. By with, against a
person, for a thing) strive. [latin peto seek]
Compile v. (-ling) 1 a collect and arrange (material) into a list, book, etc. B
produce (a book etc.) Thus. 2 computing translate (a programming language)
into machine code. compilation n. [latin compilo plunder]
Usage complaisant is often confused with complacent.
Complete —adj. 1 having all its parts; entire. 2 finished. 3 total, in every way. —
v. (-ting) 1 finish. 2 make complete. 3 fill in (a form etc.). 4 conclude the sale or
purchase of property. complete with having (as an important feature) (comes
complete with instructions). completely adv. Completeness n. Completion n.
[latin: related to *complement]
Complexion n. 1 natural colour, texture, and appearance of the skin, esp. Of the
face. 2 aspect, character (puts a different complexion on the matter). [latin:
related to *complex]
Compliance n. 1 obedience to a request, command, etc. 2 capacity to yield. in
compliance with according to.
Compliment —n. 1 a polite expression of praise. B act implying praise. 2 (in pl.)
A formal greetings accompanying a present etc. B praise. —v. (often foll. By on)
congratulate; praise. [latin: related to *complement]
Compline n. 1 last of the canonical hours of prayer. 2 service during this. [latin:
related to *comply]
Comply v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By with) act in accordance (with a request or
command). [latin compleo fill up]
Component —n. Part of a larger whole. —adj. Being part of a larger whole.
[latin: related to *compound1]
Comport v.refl. Literary conduct oneself; behave. comport with suit, befit.
comportment n. [latin porto carry]
Composite —adj. 1 made up of parts. 2 of mixed ionic and corinthian style. 3 (of
a plant) having a head of many flowers forming one bloom. —n. Composite
thing or plant. [latin: related to *compose]
Compositor n. Person who sets up type for printing. [latin: related to *compose]
Compositor n. Person who sets up type for printing. [latin: related to *compose]
Compost —n. 1 mixture of decayed organic matter. 2 loam soil with fertilizer for
growing plants. —v. 1 treat with compost. 2 make into compost. [latin: related to
*compose]
Compress —v. 1 squeeze together. 2 bring into a smaller space or shorter time.
—n. Pad of lint etc. Pressed on to part of the body to relieve inflammation, stop
bleeding, etc. compressible adj. [latin: related to *press1]
Comprise v. (-sing) 1 include. 2 consist of. 3 make up, compose. [french: related
to *comprehend]
Usage the use of this word in sense 3 is considered incorrect and compose is
generally preferred.
Con1 slang —n. Confidence trick. —v. (-nn-) swindle; deceive. [abbreviation]
Con2 —n. (usu. In pl.) Reason against. —prep. & adv. Against (cf. *pro2). [latin
contra against]
Con4 v. (us conn) (-nn-) direct the steering of (a ship). [originally cond from
french: related to *conduct]
Con-see *com-.
Concave adj. Curved like the interior of a circle or sphere. concavity n. [latin:
related to *cave]
Conceivable adj. Capable of being grasped or imagined. conceivably adv.
Concentrate —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By on) focus one’s attention or thought. 2
bring together to one point. 3 increase the strength of (a liquid etc.) By removing
water etc. 4 (as concentrated adj.) Intense, strong. —n. Concentrated substance.
[latin: related to *centre]
Concern —v. 1 a be relevant or important to. B relate to; be about. 2 (refl.; often
foll. By with, about, in) interest or involve oneself. 3 worry, affect. —n. 1
anxiety, worry. 2 a matter of interest or importance to one. B interest, connection
(has a concern in politics). 3 business, firm. 4 colloq. Complicated thing,
contrivance. [latin cerno sift]
Concerted adj. 1 jointly arranged or planned. 2 mus. Arranged in parts for voices
or instruments.
Concertina —n. Musical instrument like an accordion but smaller. —v. (-nas, -
naed or -na’d, -naing) compress or collapse in folds like those of a concertina.
Concert pitch n. Pitch internationally agreed whereby the a above middle c = 440
hz.
Conch n. 1 thick heavy spiral shell of various marine gastropod molluscs. 2 any
such gastropod. [latin concha]
Conciliate v. (-ting) 1 make calm and amenable; pacify; gain the goodwill of. 2
reconcile. conciliation n. Conciliator n. Conciliatory adj. [latin: related to
*council]
Concordat n. Agreement, esp. Between the church and a state. [latin: related to
*concord]
*concord]
Concur v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By with) have the same opinion. 2 coincide. [latin
curro run]
Concurrent adj. 1 (often foll. By with) existing or in operation at the same time
or together. 2 (of three or more lines) meeting at or tending towards one point. 3
agreeing, harmonious. concurrence n. Concurrently adv.
Concuss v. Subject to concussion. [latin quatio shake]
Condemn v. 1 express utter disapproval of. 2 a find guilty; convict. B (usu. Foll.
By to) sentence to (a punishment). 3 pronounce (a building etc.) Unfit for use. 4
(usu. Foll. By to) doom or assign (to something unpleasant). condemnation n.
Condemnatory adj. [latin: related to *damn]
Condign adj. (of a punishment etc.) Severe and well-deserved. [latin dignus
Condign adj. (of a punishment etc.) Severe and well-deserved. [latin dignus
worthy]
Condition —n. 1 stipulation; thing upon the fulfilment of which something else
depends. 2 a state of being or fitness of a person or thing. B ailment, abnormality
(heart condition). 3 (in pl.) Circumstances, esp. Those affecting the functioning
or existence of something (good working conditions). —v. 1 a bring into a good
or desired state. B make fit (esp. Dogs or horses). 2 teach or accustom. 3 a
impose conditions on. B be essential to. in (or out of) condition in good (or bad)
condition. On condition that with the stipulation that. [latin dico say]
Condole v. (-ling) (foll. By with) express sympathy with (a person) over a loss
etc. [latin condoleo grieve with another]
Cone n. 1 solid figure with a circular (or other curved) plane base, tapering to a
point. 2 thing of similar shape. 3 dry fruit of a conifer. 4 ice-cream cornet. [latin
from greek]
Confederate —adj. Esp. Polit. Allied. —n. 1 ally, esp. (in a bad sense)
accomplice. 2 (confederate) supporter of the confederate states. —v. (-ting)
(often foll. By with) bring or come into alliance. [latin: related to *federal]
Confer v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By on, upon) grant or bestow. 2 (often foll. By
with) converse, consult. conferrable adj. [latin confero collat-bring together]
Confetti n. Small bits of coloured paper thrown by wedding guests at the bride
and groom. [italian]
Confide v. (-ding) 1 (foll. By in) talk confidentially to. 2 (usu. Foll. By to) tell (a
secret etc.) In confidence. 3 (foll. By to) entrust (an object of care, a task, etc.)
To. [latin confido trust]
Confidence n. 1 firm trust. 2 a feeling of reliance or certainty. B sense of self-
reliance; boldness. 3 something told as a secret. in confidence as a secret. In a
person’s confidence trusted with a person’s secrets. Take into one’s confidence
confide in. [latin: related to *confide]
Confine —v. (-ning) 1 keep or restrict (within certain limits). 2 imprison. —n.
(usu. In pl.) Limit, boundary. [latin finis limit]
Confirm v. 1 provide support for the truth or correctness of. 2 (foll. By in)
encourage (a person) in (an opinion etc.). 3 establish more firmly (power,
possession, etc.). 4 make formally valid. 5 administer the religious rite of
confirmation to. [latin: related to *firm1]
confirmation to. [latin: related to *firm1]
Conflate v. (-ting) blend or fuse together (esp. Two variant texts into one).
conflation n. [latin flo flat-blow]
Conform v. 1 comply with rules or general custom. 2 (foll. By to, with) comply
with; be in accordance with. 3 (often foll. By to) be or make suitable. [latin:
related to *form]
related to *form]
Conformable adj. 1 (often foll. By to) similar. 2 (often foll. By with) consistent.
3 (often foll. By to) adaptable.
Confound —v. 1 perplex, baffle. 2 confuse (in one’s mind). 3 archaic defeat,
overthrow. —int. Expressing annoyance (confound you!). [latin confundo -fus-
mix up]
Confuse v. (-sing) 1 perplex, bewilder. 2 mix up in the mind; mistake (one for
another). 3 make indistinct (confuse the issue). 4 (often as confused adj.) Throw
into disorder. confusedly adv. Confusing adj. [related to *confound]
Conga —n. 1 latin-american dance, with a line of dancers one behind the other.
2 tall narrow drum beaten with the hands. —v. (congas, congaed or conga’d,
congaing) perform the conga. [spanish conga (feminine), = of the congo]
Congenial adj. 1 (often foll. By with, to) pleasant because like-minded. 2 (often
foll. By to) suited or agreeable. congeniality n. Congenially adv. [from *com-,
*genial]
Congenital adj. 1 (esp. Of disease) existing from birth. 2 as such from birth
(congenital liar). congenitally adv. [latin: related to *com-]
Conger n. (in full conger eel) large marine eel. [greek goggros]
Congeries n. (pl. Same) disorderly collection; mass, heap. [latin congero heap
together]
Usage the form congery, formed under the misapprehension that congeries is
plural only, is incorrect.
Congest v. (esp. As congested adj.) Affect with congestion. [latin congero -gest-
heap together]
Congruent adj. 1 (often foll. By with) suitable, agreeing. 2 geom. (of figures)
coinciding exactly when superimposed. congruence n. Congruency n. [latin
congruo agree]
Conifer n. Tree usu. Bearing cones. coniferous adj. [latin: related to *cone]
Conjugal adj. Of marriage or the relationship of husband and wife. [latin conjux
consort]
Conjugate —v. (-ting) 1 gram. List the different forms of (a verb). 2 a unite. B
become fused. —adj. 1 joined together, paired. 2 fused. [latin jugum yoke]
Conjunct adj. Joined together; combined; associated. [latin from juntus joined]
Conjunctiva n. (pl. -s) mucous membrane covering the front of the eye and the
lining inside the eyelids.
Conk1 v. (usu. Foll. By out) colloq. 1 (of a machine etc.) Break down. 2 (of a
person) become exhausted and give up; fall asleep; faint; die. [origin unknown]
Conk2 slang —n. 1 nose or head. 2 punch on the nose or head. —v. Hit on the
nose or head. [perhaps = *conch]
Conker n. 1 fruit of the horse chestnut. 2 (in pl.) Children’s game played with
conkers on strings. [dial. Conker snail-shell]
Conn v. (brit. Con) (-nn-) direct the steering of (a ship). [originally cond from
french: related to *conduct]
Connect v. 1 (often foll. By to, with) join (two things, or one thing with another).
2 be joined or joinable. 3 (often foll. By with) associate mentally or practically. 4
(foll. By with) (of a train etc.) Be timed to arrive with another, so passengers can
transfer. 5 put into communication by telephone. 6 a (usu. In passive; foll. By
with) associate with others in relationships etc. B be meaningful or relevant. 7
colloq. Hit or strike effectively. [latin necto nex-bind]
Connoisseur n. (often foll. By of, in) expert judge in matters of taste. [french
connaître know]
Connote v. (-ting) 1 (of a word etc.) Imply in addition to the literal or primary
meaning. 2 mean, signify. connotation n. Connotative adj. [medieval latin:
related to *note]
Connubial adj. Of marriage or the relationship of husband and wife. [latin nubo
marry]
Conscience n. Moral sense of right and wrong, esp. As affecting behaviour. in all
conscience colloq. By any reasonable standard. On one’s conscience causing one
feelings of guilt. Prisoner of conscience person imprisoned by the state for his or
her political or religious views. [latin: related to *science]
her political or religious views. [latin: related to *science]
Conscious —adj. 1 awake and aware of one’s surroundings and identity. 2 (usu.
Foll. By of or that) aware, knowing. 3 (of actions, emotions, etc.) Realized or
recognized by the doer; intentional. 4 (in comb.) Aware of; concerned with
(fashion-conscious). —n. (prec. By the) the conscious mind. consciously adv.
Consciousness n. [latin scio know]
Conscript —v. Summon for compulsory state (esp. Military) service. —n.
Conscripted person. conscription n. [latin scribo write]
Consent —v. (often foll. By to) express willingness, give permission, agree. —n.
Voluntary agreement, permission. [latin sentio feel]
Conservancy n. (pl. -ies) 1 body controlling a port, river, etc., or preserving the
environment. 2 official environmental conservation. [latin: related to *conserve]
Conserve —v. (-ving) keep from harm or damage, esp. For later use. —n. Fresh
fruit jam. [latin servo keep]
Considering —prep. & conj. In view of; taking into consideration. —adv.
Colloq. Taking everything into account (not so bad, considering).
Consign v. (often foll. By to) 1 hand over; deliver. 2 assign; commit. 3 transmit
or send (goods). consignee n. Consignor n. [latin: related to *sign]
Consistory n. (pl. -ies) rc ch. Council of cardinals (with or without the pope).
[latin: related to *consist]
Consolation prize n. Prize given to a competitor who just fails to win a main
prize.
Console2 n. 1 panel for switches, controls, etc. 2 cabinet for a television etc. 3
cabinet with the keyboards and stops of an organ. 4 bracket supporting a shelf
etc. [french]
Consonant —n. 1 speech sound in which the breath is at least partly obstructed,
and which forms a syllable by combining with a vowel. 2 letter(s) representing
this. —adj. (foll. By with, to) consistent; in agreement or harmony. consonantal
adj.
Consort1 —n. Wife or husband, esp. Of royalty. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By with,
together) keep company. 2 harmonize. [latin: related to *sort]
Conspiracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 secret plan to commit a crime; plot. 2 conspiring. [latin:
Conspiracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 secret plan to commit a crime; plot. 2 conspiring. [latin:
related to *conspire]
Construct —v. 1 make by fitting parts together; build, form. 2 geom. Delineate
(a figure). —n. Thing constructed, esp. By the mind. constructor n. [latin struo
struct-build]
Consumer n. 1 person who consumes, esp. One who uses a product. 2 purchaser
of goods or services.
Consumer goods n.pl. Goods for consumers, not for producing other goods.
Contact lens n. Small lens placed directly on the eyeball to correct vision.
Container n. 1 box, jar, etc., for holding things. 2 large metal box for
transporting goods.
Contempt n. 1 feeling that a person or thing deserves scorn or extreme reproach.
2 condition of being held in contempt. 3 (in full contempt of court) disobedience
to or disrespect for a court of law. [latin temno tempt-despise]
Context n. 1 parts that surround a word or passage and clarify its meaning. 2
relevant circumstances. in (or out of) context with (or without) the surrounding
words or circumstances. contextual adj. Contextualize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -
sing). [latin: related to *text]
Contiguous adj. (usu. Foll. By with, to) touching; in contact. contiguity n. [latin:
related to *contact]
Continent2 adj. 1 able to control one’s bowels and bladder. 2 exercising self-
restraint, esp. Sexually. continence n. [latin: related to *contain]
Continental adj. 1 of or characteristic of a continent. 2 (continental) of or
characteristic of mainland europe.
Contingency n. (pl. -ies) 1 event that may or may not occur. 2 something
dependent on another uncertain event. [latin: related to *contingent]
Continue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 maintain, not stop (an action etc.) (continued to
read, reading). 2 (also absol.) Resume or prolong (a narrative, journey, etc.). 3 be
a sequel to. 4 remain, stay (will continue as manager; weather continued fine).
[latin: related to *contain]
Continuo n. (pl. -s) mus. Accompaniment providing a bass line, played usu. On a
keyboard instrument. [italian]
Contort v. Twist or force out of its normal shape. contortion n. [latin torqueo
tort-twist]
Contour —n. 1 outline. 2 (in full contour line) line on a map joining points of
equal altitude. —v. Mark with contour lines. [italian contornare draw in outline]
Contract bridge n. Bridge in which only tricks bid and won count towards the
game.
Contraflow n. Transfer of traffic from its usual half of the road to the other half
by borrowing one or more of the other half’s lanes.
Contralto n. (pl. -s) 1 lowest female singing-voice. 2 singer with this voice.
[italian: related to contra-, alto]
Contribute v. (-ting) (often foll. By to) 1 give (time, money, etc.) Towards a
common purpose. 2 help to bring about a result etc. 3 (also absol.) Supply (an
article etc.) For publication with others. contributor n. [latin: related to *tribute]
Contrite adj. Penitent, feeling great guilt. contritely adv. Contrition n. [latin:
related to *trite]
Control tower n. Tall building at an airport etc. From which air traffic is
controlled.
Conundrum n. 1 riddle, esp. One with a pun in its answer. 2 hard question.
[origin unknown]
Converge v. (-ging) 1 come together or towards the same point. 2 (foll. By on,
upon) approach from different directions. convergence n. Convergent adj. [latin
vergo incline]
Convex adj. Curved like the exterior of a circle or sphere. convexity n. [latin]
Conveyor n. (also conveyer) person or thing that conveys.
Conveyor belt n. Endless moving belt for conveying articles, esp. In a factory.
Convict —v. 1 (often foll. By of) prove to be guilty (of a crime etc.). 2 declare
guilty by a legal process. —n. Chiefly hist. Person serving a prison sentence.
[latin vinco vict-conquer]
Convivial adj. Fond of good company; sociable and lively. conviviality n. [latin
vivo live]
Convoke v. (-king) formal call together; summon to assemble. [latin voco call]
Convolution n. 1 coiling. 2 coil or twist. 3 complexity. 4 sinuous fold in the
surface of the brain.
Convoy —n. Group of ships, vehicles, etc., travelling together or under escort.
—v. Escort, esp. With armed force. in convoy as a group. [french: related to
*convey]
Coo —n. Soft murmuring sound as of a dove. —v. (coos, cooed) 1 emit a coo. 2
talk or say in a soft or amorous voice. —int. Slang expressing surprise or
disbelief. [imitative]
Cook —v. 1 prepare (food) by heating it. 2 (of food) undergo cooking. 3 colloq.
Falsify (accounts etc.). 4 (as be cooking) colloq. Be happening or about to
Falsify (accounts etc.). 4 (as be cooking) colloq. Be happening or about to
happen. —n. Person who cooks, esp. Professionally or in a specified way (a
good cook). cook up colloq. Concoct (a story, excuse, etc.). [latin coquus]
Cook-chill attrib. Adj. (of food, meals, etc.) Sold in pre-cooked and refrigerated
form.
Cooker n. 1 appliance or vessel for cooking food. 2 fruit (esp. An apple) suitable
for cooking.
Coolie n. Unskilled native labourer in eastern countries. [perhaps from kuli, tribe
in india]
Cooling tower n. Tall structure for cooling hot water before reuse, esp. In
industry.
Coomb n. (also combe) 1 valley on the side of a hill. 2 short valley running up
from the coast. [old english]
Coop —n. Cage for keeping poultry. —v. (often foll. By up, in) confine (a
person). [latin cupa cask]
Cooper n. Maker or repairer of casks, barrels, etc. [low german or dutch: related
to *coop]
Cooperate v. (also cooperate) (-ting) 1 (often foll. By with) work or act together.
2 be helpful and do as one is asked. cooperation n. [related to *co-]
Coot n. 1 black aquatic bird with a white horny plate on its forehead. 2 colloq.
Stupid person. [probably low german]
Cop slang —n. 1 police officer. 2 capture or arrest (it’s a fair cop). —v. (-pp-) 1
catch or arrest (an offender). 2 receive, suffer. 3 take, seize. cop it get into
trouble; be punished. Cop out 1 withdraw; give up. 2 go back on a promise. Not
much cop of little value or use. [french caper seize]
Copal n. Resin of a tropical tree, used for varnish. [spanish from aztec]
Cope2 —n. Priest’s long cloaklike vestment. —v. (-ping) cover with a cope or
coping. [latin cappa *cap]
Copernican system n. Theory that the planets (including the earth) move round
the sun. [copernicus, name of an astronomer]
Coping saw n. D-shaped saw for cutting curves in wood. [from *cope1]
Copious adj. 1 abundant. 2 producing much. copiously adv. [latin copia plenty]
Copt n. 1 native egyptian in the hellenistic and roman periods. 2 native christian
of the independent egyptian church. [french from arabic]
Copula n. (pl. -s) connecting word, esp. Part of the verb be connecting subject
and predicate. [latin]
Copy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing made to imitate another. 2 single specimen of a
publication or issue. 3 material to be printed, esp. Regarded as good etc. Reading
matter (the crisis will make exciting copy). —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make a copy of. 2
imitate, do the same as. [latin copia transcript]
Copyright —n. Exclusive legal right to print, publish, perform, film, or record
material. —adj. Protected by copyright. —v. Secure copyright for (material).
Coquette n. Woman who flirts. coquetry n. (pl. -ies). Coquettish adj. [french
diminutive: related to *cock1]
Cor-see *com-.
Coral —n. Hard red, pink, or white calcareous substance secreted by marine
polyps for support and habitation. —adj. 1 red or pink, like coral. 2 made of
coral. [greek korallion]
Coral island n. (also coral reef) island (or reef) formed by the growth of coral.
Coralline —n. Seaweed with a hard jointed stem. —adj. Of or like coral. [french
and italian: related to *coral]
Cor anglais n. (pl. Cors anglais) alto woodwind instrument of the oboe family.
[french]
Corbel n. Projection of stone, timber, etc., jutting out from a wall to support a
weight. corbelled adj. [latin corvus crow]
Cord —n. 1 a flexible material like thick string, made from twisted strands. B
piece of this. 2 similar structure in the body. 3 a ribbed fabric, esp. Corduroy. B
(in pl.) Corduroy trousers. 4 electric flex. —v. 1 fasten or bind with cord. 2 (as
corded adj.) (of cloth) ribbed. [greek khorde string]
Cordless adj. (of a hand-held electrical device) usable without a power cable
because working from an internal source of energy or battery.
Cordon —n. 1 line or circle of police, soldiers, guards, etc., esp. Preventing
access. 2 ornamental cord or braid. 3 fruit-tree trained to grow as a single stem.
—v. (often foll. By off) enclose or separate with a cordon of police etc. [italian
and french: related to *cord]
Cordon bleu cookery —adj. Of the highest class. —n. Cook of this class.
[french]
Corduroy n. 1 thick cotton fabric with velvety ribs. 2 (in pl.) Corduroy trousers.
[cord = ribbed fabric]
Core —n. 1 horny central part of certain fruits, containing the seeds. 2 central or
most important part of anything (also attrib.: core curriculum). 3 inner central
region of the earth. 4 part of a nuclear reactor containing fissile material. 5 hist.
Structural unit in a computer, storing one bit of data (see *bit4). 6 inner strand of
an electric cable. 7 piece of soft iron forming the centre of an electromagnet or
induction coil. —v. (-ring) remove the core from. corer n. [origin unknown]
Coriander n. 1 aromatic plant. 2 its seeds used for flavouring. [greek koriannon]
Corkage n. Charge made by a restaurant etc. For serving a customer’s own wine
etc.
Corked adj. 1 stopped with a cork. 2 (of wine) spoilt by a decayed cork.
Corkscrew —n. 1 spiral device for extracting corks from bottles. 2 (often attrib.)
Thing with a spiral shape. —v. Move spirally; twist.
Corm n. Underground swollen stem base of some plants. [greek kormos lopped
tree-trunk]
Cormorant n. Diving sea bird with black plumage. [latin corvus marinus sea-
raven]
Corn1 n. 1 a cereal before or after harvesting, esp. The chief crop of a region. B
grain or seed of a cereal plant. 2 colloq. Something corny or trite. [old english]
Corn2 n. Small tender area of horny skin, esp. On the toe. [latin cornu horn]
Cornea n. Transparent circular part of the front of the eyeball. corneal adj.
[medieval latin: related to *corn2]
Corner —n. 1 place where converging sides or edges meet. 2 projecting angle,
esp. Where two streets meet. 3 internal space or recess formed by the meeting of
two sides, esp. Of a room. 4 difficult position, esp. One with no escape. 5
two sides, esp. Of a room. 4 difficult position, esp. One with no escape. 5
secluded place. 6 region or quarter, esp. A remote one. 7 action or result of
buying or controlling the whole stock of a commodity. 8 boxing & wrestling
corner of the ring where a contestant rests between rounds. 9 football & hockey
free kick or hit from the corner of a pitch. —v. 1 force into a difficult or
inescapable position. 2 establish a corner in (a commodity). 3 (esp. Of or in a
vehicle) go round a corner. [latin: related to *corn2]
Cornflake n. 1 (in pl.) Breakfast cereal of toasted maize flakes. 2 flake of this
cereal.
Cornice n. Ornamental moulding, esp. Round a room just below the ceiling or as
the topmost part of an entablature. [french from italian]
Corn on the cob n. Maize cooked and eaten from the corn-cob.
Corny adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 banal. 2 feebly humorous. 3 sentimental. cornily
adv. Corniness n. [from *corn1]
Corollary n. (pl. -ies) 1 proposition that follows from one already proved. 2
(often foll. By of) natural consequence. [latin, = gratuity: related to *corolla]
Corona n. (pl. -nae) 1 a halo round the sun or moon. B gaseous envelope of the
sun, seen as an area of light around the moon during a total solar eclipse. 2 anat.
Crownlike structure. 3 crownlike outgrowth from the inner side of a corolla. 4
glow around an electric conductor. coronal adj. [latin, = crown]
Coronary —adj. Anat. Resembling or encircling like a crown. —n. (pl. -ies) =
*coronary thrombosis. [latin: related to *corona]
Corps n. (pl. Corps) 1 a body of troops with special duties (intelligence corps). B
main subdivision of an army in the field. 2 body of people engaged in a special
activity (diplomatic corps). [french: related to *corpse]
Corpus n. (pl. -pora) body or collection of writings, texts, etc. [latin, = body]
Corpuscle n. Minute body or cell in an organism, esp. (in pl.) The red or white
cells in the blood of vertebrates. corpuscular adj. [latin diminutive of *corpus]
Corral —n. 1 us pen for cattle, horses, etc. 2 enclosure for capturing wild
animals. —v. (-ll-) put or keep in a corral. [spanish and portuguese: related to
*kraal]
Correlate —v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By with, to) have or bring into a mutual relation
or dependence. —n. Each of two related or complementary things. correlation n.
[medieval latin correlatio]
Correlative —adj. 1 (often foll. By with, to) having a mutual relation. 2 (of
words) corresponding to each other and used together (as neither and nor). —n.
Correlative word or thing.
Corridor n. 1 passage giving access into rooms. 2 passage in a train giving access
into compartments. 3 strip of territory of one state passing through that of
another. 4 route which an aircraft must follow, esp. Over a foreign country.
[french from italian]
Corrugate v. (-ting) (esp. As corrugated adj.) Form into alternate ridges and
grooves, esp. To strengthen (corrugated iron). corrugation n. [latin ruga wrinkle]
Corrupt —adj. 1 dishonest, esp. Using bribery. 2 immoral; wicked. 3 (of a text
etc.) Made unreliable by errors or alterations. —v. Make or become corrupt.
corruptible adj. Corruptibility n. Corruption n. Corruptive adj. Corruptly adv.
Corruptness n. [latin rumpo rupt-break]
Corselette n. Combined corset and bra. [french corslet armour covering trunk]
Cortex n. (pl. -tices) outer part of an organ, esp. Of the brain or kidneys. cortical
adj. [latin, = bark]
Corvette n. 1 small naval escort-vessel. 2 hist. Warship with one tier of guns.
[french from dutch]
Cosecant n. Math. Ratio of the hypotenuse (in a right-angled triangle) to the side
opposite an acute angle.
Cosh1 colloq. —n. Heavy blunt weapon. —v. Hit with a cosh. [origin unknown]
Co-signatory n. (pl. -ies) person or state signing a treaty etc. Jointly with others.
Cosine n. Ratio of the side adjacent to an acute angle (in a right-angled triangle)
to the hypotenuse.
Cosmic adj. 1 of the cosmos or its scale; universal (of cosmic significance). 2 of
or for space travel.
Cosmogony n. (pl. -ies) 1 origin of the universe. 2 theory about this. [greek -
gonia -begetting]
Cosmopolitan —adj. 1 of, from, or knowing many parts of the world. 2 free from
national limitations or prejudices. —n. Cosmopolitan person. cosmopolitanism
n. [greek polites citizen]
Cosset v. (-t-) pamper. [dialect cosset = pet lamb, probably from old english, =
cottager]
Cost —v. (past and past part. Cost) 1 be obtainable for (a sum of money); have
as a price. 2 involve as a loss or sacrifice (it cost him his life). 3 (past and past
part. Costed) fix or estimate the cost of. —n. 1 what a thing costs; price. 2 loss or
sacrifice. 3 (in pl.) Legal expenses. at all costs (or at any cost) whatever the cost
or risk may be. [latin consto stand at a price]
Costermonger n. Person who sells produce from a barrow. [costard large apple:
related to *costal]
Cost price n. Price paid for a thing by one who later sells it.
Costume —n. 1 style of dress, esp. Of a particular place or time. 2 set of clothes.
3 clothing for a particular activity (swimming-costume). 4 actor’s clothes for a
part. —v. (-ming) provide with a costume. [latin: related to *custom]
Cosy (us cozy) —adj. (-ier, -iest) comfortable and warm; snug. —n. (pl. -ies)
cover to keep a teapot etc. Hot. cosily adv. Cosiness n. [origin unknown]
Cot1 n. 1 small bed with high sides for a baby. 2 small light bed. [hindi]
Cotoneaster n. Shrub bearing usu. Bright red berries. [latin cotoneum *quince]
Cotoneaster n. Shrub bearing usu. Bright red berries. [latin cotoneum *quince]
Cottage cheese n. Soft white lumpy cheese made from skimmed milk curds.
Cotter n. 1 bolt or wedge for securing parts of machinery etc. 2 (in full cotter
pin) split pin that can be opened after passing through a hole. [origin unknown]
Cotton n. 1 soft white fibrous substance covering the seeds of certain plants. 2
such a plant. 3 thread or cloth from this. cotton on (often foll. By to) colloq.
Begin to understand. [french from arabic]
Cotton wool n. Fluffy wadding of a kind orig. Made from raw cotton.
Couch1 —n. 1 upholstered piece of furniture for several people; sofa. 2 long
Couch1 —n. 1 upholstered piece of furniture for several people; sofa. 2 long
padded seat with a headrest at one end. —v. 1 (foll. By in) express in (certain
terms). 2 archaic (of an animal) lie, esp. In its lair. [latin colloco lay in place]
Couch2 n. (in full couch grass) a grass with long creeping roots. [var. Of
*quitch]
Cough —v. 1 expel air etc. From the lungs with a sudden sharp sound. 2 (of an
engine etc.) Make a similar sound. 3 slang confess. —n. 1 act of coughing. 2
condition of respiratory organs causing coughing. cough up 1 eject with coughs.
2 slang bring out or give (money or information) reluctantly. [imitative, related
to dutch kuchen]
Could past of *can1. —v. Colloq. Feel inclined to (i could murder him).
Coulter n. (us colter) vertical blade in front of a ploughshare. [latin culter knife]
Council tax n. Proposed new local tax based on the value of a property and the
number of people living in it, to replace the community charge.
Counsel —n. 1 advice, esp. Formally given. 2 consultation for advice. 3 (pl.
Same) legal adviser, esp. A barrister; body of these. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 advise (a
person). 2 give esp. Professional advice to (a person) on personal problems. 3
recommend (a course of action). keep one’s own counsel not confide in others.
Take counsel (usu. Foll. By with) consult. counselling n. [latin consilium]
Counselor n. (brit. Counsellor) 1 adviser. 2 person giving professional guidance
on personal problems. 3 us barrister.
Count1 —v. 1 determine the total number of, esp. By assigning successive
numbers. 2 repeat numbers in ascending order. 3 (often foll. By in) include or be
included in one’s reckoning or plan. 4 consider or regard to be (lucky etc.). 5
(often foll. By for) have value; matter (my opinion counts for little). —n. 1 a
counting or being counted. B total of reckoning. 2 law each charge in an
indictment. count against be reckoned to the disadvantage of. Count one’s
blessings be grateful for what one has. Count on (or upon) rely on; expect. Count
out 1 count while taking from a stock. 2 complete a count of ten seconds over (a
fallen boxer etc.). 3 colloq. Exclude, disregard. 4 polit. Procure the adjournment
of (the house of commons) when fewer than 40 members are present. Count up
find the sum of. Keep count take note of how many there have been etc. Lose
count forget the number etc. Counted. Out for the count 1 defeated. 2
unconscious; asleep. [latin: related to *compute]
Countable adj. 1 that can be counted. 2 gram. (of a noun) that can form a plural
or be used with the indefinite article.
Counter-intelligence n. = *counter-espionage.
Countersink v. (past and past part. -sunk) 1 shape (the rim of a hole) so that a
screw or bolt can be inserted flush with the surface. 2 sink (a screw etc.) In such
a hole.
Country n. (pl. -ies) 1 territory of a nation; state. 2 (often attrib.) Rural districts
as opposed to towns or the capital. 3 land of a person’s birth or citizenship. 4
region with regard to its aspect, associations, etc. (mountainous country; hardy
country). 5 national population, esp. As voters. [medieval latin contrata (terra)
(land) lying opposite]
Country dance n. Traditional dance, esp. English, usu. With couples facing each
other in lines.
Countryside n. Rural areas.
County —n. (pl. -ies) 1 territorial division in some countries, forming the chief
unit of local administration. 2 us political and administrative division of a state.
—adj. Of or like the gentry. [latin comitatus: related to *count2]
Coup n. (pl. -s) 1 successful stroke or move. 2 = *coup d’état. [medieval latin
colpus blow]
Coup d’état n. (pl. Coups d’état pronunc. Same) violent or illegal seizure of
power. [french]
Coupe n. (brit. Coupé) car with a hard roof, two doors, and usu. A sloping rear.
[french couper cut]
[french couper cut]
Coupé n. (us coupe) car with a hard roof, two doors, and usu. A sloping rear.
[french couper cut]
Couple —n. 1 a two (a couple of girls). B about two (a couple of hours). 2 a two
people who are married to, or in a sexual relationship with, each other. B pair of
partners in a dance etc. —v. (-ling) 1 link together. 2 associate in thought or
speech. 3 copulate. [latin *copula]
Couplet n. Two successive lines of verse, usu. Rhyming and of the same length.
[french diminutive: related to *couple]
Coupon n. 1 form etc. As an application for a purchase etc. 2 entry form for a
football pool or other competition. 3 discount voucher given with a purchase.
[french couper cut]
Court —n. 1 (in full court of law) a judicial body hearing legal cases. B =
courtroom. 2 quadrangular area for games (tennis-court; squash-court). 3 a
yard surrounded by houses with entry from the street. B = courtyard. 4 a the
residence, retinue, and courtiers of a sovereign. B sovereign and councillors,
constituting the ruling power. C assembly held by a sovereign; state reception. 5
attention paid to a person whose favour etc. Is sought (paid court to her). —v. 1
a try to win affection or favour of. B pay amorous attention to. 2 seek to win
(applause, fame, etc.). 3 invite (misfortune) by one’s actions. go to court take
legal action. Out of court 1 without reaching trial. 2 not worthy of consideration.
[latin: related to *cohort]
Courtesy n. (pl. -ies) courteous behaviour or act. by courtesy of with the formal
permission of. [french: related to *courteous]
Court martial —n. (pl. Courts martial) judicial court trying members of the
armed services. —v. (court-martial) (-ll-; us -l-) try by this.
Court shoe n. Woman’s light, usu. High-heeled, shoe with a low-cut upper.
Cousin n. 1 (also first cousin) child of one’s uncle or aunt. 2 person of a kindred
race or nation. [latin consobrinus]
Usage there is often some confusion as to the difference between cousin, first
cousin, second cousin, first cousin once removed, etc. For definitions see cousin,
second cousin and remove v. 5.
Cove1 —n. 1 small bay or creek. 2 sheltered recess. 3 moulding, esp. At the
junction of a wall and a ceiling. —v. (-ving) 1 provide (a room etc.) With a cove.
2 slope (the sides of a fireplace) inwards. [old english]
Cover —v. 1 (often foll. By with) protect or conceal with a cloth, lid, etc. 2 a
extend over; occupy the whole surface of. B (often foll. By with) strew thickly or
thoroughly. C lie over. 3 a protect; clothe. B (as covered adj.) Wearing a hat;
having a roof. 4 include; comprise; deal with. 5 travel (a specified distance). 6
describe as a reporter. 7 be enough to defray (£20 should cover it). 8 a refl. Take
measures to protect oneself. B (absol.; foll. By for) stand in for. 9 a aim a gun
etc. At. B (of a fortress, guns, etc.) Command (territory). C protect (an exposed
person etc.) By being able to return fire. 10 a esp. Cricket stand behind (another
player) to stop any missed balls. B mark (an opposing player). 11 (of a stallion
etc.) Copulate with. —n. 1 thing that covers, esp.: a lid. B book’s binding. C
either board of this. D envelope or wrapping (under separate cover). 2 shelter. 3
a pretence; screen. B pretended identity. C mil. Supporting force protecting an
advance party from attack. 4 a funds, esp. Obtainable from insurance to meet a
liability or secure against loss. B insurance protection (third-party cover). 5
person acting as a substitute. 6 place-setting at table. 7 cricket = *cover-point.
cover up completely cover or conceal. Take cover find shelter. [latin cooperio]
Coverage n. 1 area or amount covered. 2 amount of publicity received by an
event etc.
Covering letter n. (also covering note) explanatory letter sent with an enclosure.
Cover story n. News story in a magazine that is advertised etc. On the front
cover.
Covert —adj. Secret or disguised (covert glance). —n. 1 shelter, esp. A thicket
hiding game. 2 feather covering the base of a bird’s flight-feather. covertly adv.
[french: related to *cover]
Covet v. (-t-) desire greatly (esp. A thing belonging to another person). [french:
related to *cupid]
Covey n. (pl. -s) 1 brood of partridges. 2 small group of people. [latin cubo lie]
Cow1 n. 1 fully grown female of any esp. Domestic bovine animal, used as a
source of milk and beef. 2 female of other large animals, esp. The elephant,
whale, and seal. 3 derog. Slang woman. [old english]
Cowbell n. Bell worn round a cow’s neck.
Cowboy n. 1 (fem. Cowgirl) person who tends cattle, esp. In the western us. 2
colloq. Unscrupulous or incompetent person in business.
Cow-pat n. Flat round piece of cow-dung.
Cowrie n. 1 tropical mollusc with a bright shell. 2 its shell as money in parts of
africa and s. Asia. [urdu and hindi]
Cox —n. Coxswain, esp. Of a racing-boat. —v. Act as cox (of). [abbreviation]
Coxswain —n. 1 person who steers, esp. A rowing-boat. 2 senior petty officer in
a small ship. —v. Act as coxswain (of). [cock ship’s boat, *swain]
Coy adj. 1 affectedly shy. 2 irritatingly reticent. coyly adv. Coyness n. [french:
related to *quiet]
Coyote n. (pl. Same or -s) n. American wolflike wild dog. [mexican spanish]
Coyote n. (pl. Same or -s) n. American wolflike wild dog. [mexican spanish]
Cozy (brit. Cosy) —adj. (-ier, -iest) comfortable and warm; snug. —n. (pl. -ies)
cover to keep a teapot etc. Hot. cosily adv. Cosiness n. [origin unknown]
Cps abbr. (also c.p.s.) 1 computing characters per second. 2 sci. Cycles per
second.
Cr symb. Chromium.
Crab1 n. 1 a ten-footed crustacean, with the first pair of legs as pincers. B crab
as food. 2 (crab) sign or constellation cancer. 3 (in full crab-louse) (often in pl.)
Parasitic louse transmitted sexually to esp. Pubic hair. 4 machine for hoisting
Parasitic louse transmitted sexually to esp. Pubic hair. 4 machine for hoisting
heavy weights. catch a crab rowing jam an oar or miss the water. crablike adj.
[old english]
Crab2 n. 1 (in full crab-apple) small sour apple. 2 (in full crab tree or crab-apple
tree) tree (esp. Uncultivated) bearing this. 3 sour person. [origin unknown]
Cracker n. 1 paper cylinder pulled apart, esp. At christmas, with a sharp noise
and releasing a hat, joke, etc. 2 loud firework. 3 (usu. In pl.) Instrument for
cracking. 4 thin dry savoury biscuit. 5 slang attractive or admirable person. 6 us
biscuit.
Crackle —v. (-ling) make repeated slight cracking sound (radio crackled; fire
was crackling). —n. Such a sound. crackly adj. [from *crack]
Cradle —n. 1 a baby’s bed or cot, esp. On rockers. B place in which something
begins, esp. Civilization (cradle of democracy). 2 supporting framework or
structure. —v. (-ling) 1 contain or shelter as in a cradle. 2 place in a cradle. [old
english]
Cradle-song n. Lullaby.
Craft —n. 1 special skill or technique. 2 occupation needing this. 3 (pl. Craft) a
boat or vessel. B aircraft or spacecraft. 4 cunning or deceit. —v. Make in a
skilful way. [old english]
Crafty adj. (-ier, -iest) cunning, artful, wily. craftily adv. Craftiness n.
Craggy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of facial features, landscape, etc.) Rugged; rough-
Craggy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of facial features, landscape, etc.) Rugged; rough-
textured. cragginess n.
Crake n. Bird of the rail family, esp. The corncrake. [old norse, imitative of cry]
Cram v. (-mm-) 1 a fill to bursting; stuff. B (foll. By in, into; also absol.) Force
(a thing) in or into. 2 prepare intensively for an examination. 3 (often foll. By
with) feed to excess. [old english]
Cramped adj. 1 (of a space) too small. 2 (of handwriting) small and with the
letters close together.
Crampon n. (us crampoon) (usu. In pl.) Spiked iron plate fixed to a boot for
climbing on ice. [french: related to *cramp]
Crampoon n. (brit. Crampon) (usu. In pl.) Spiked iron plate fixed to a boot for
climbing on ice. [french: related to *cramp]
Cranberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 shrub with small red acid berries. 2 this berry used in
cookery. [german kranbeere crane-berry]
cookery. [german kranbeere crane-berry]
Crane —n. 1 machine with a long projecting arm for moving heavy objects. 2
tall wading bird with long legs, neck, and bill. —v. (-ning) (also absol.) Stretch
out (one’s neck) in order to see something. [old english]
Cranium n. (pl. -s or -nia) 1 skull. 2 part of the skeleton enclosing the brain.
cranial adj. Craniology n. [medieval latin from greek]
Crank —n. 1 part of an axle or shaft bent at right angles for converting
reciprocal into circular motion or vice versa. 2 eccentric person. —v. Cause to
move by means of a crank. crank up start (a car engine) with a crank. [old
english]
Cranky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. Eccentric. 2 working badly; shaky. 3 esp. Us
crotchety. crankily adv. Crankiness n.
Crap coarse slang —n. 1 (often as int. Or attrib.) Nonsense, rubbish. 2 faeces. —
v. (-pp-) defecate. crappy adj. (-ier, -iest). [dutch]
Crape n. Crêpe, usu. Of black silk, formerly used for mourning. [from *crêpe]
Craps n.pl. Us (also crap game) gambling dice game. [origin uncertain]
Crash1 —v. 1 (cause to) make a loud smashing noise. 2 throw, drive, move, or
fall with a loud smash. 3 (often foll. By into) collide or fall, or cause (a vehicle
etc.) To collide or fall, violently; overturn at high speed. 4 collapse financially. 5
colloq. Gatecrash. 6 computing (of a machine or system) fail suddenly. 7 colloq.
Pass (a red traffic-light etc.). 8 (often foll. By out) slang sleep, esp. On a floor
etc. —n. 1 loud and sudden smashing noise. 2 violent collision or fall, esp. Of a
vehicle. 3 ruin, esp. Financial. 4 computing sudden failure of a machine or
system. 5 (attrib.) Done rapidly or urgently (crash course in first aid). —adv.
With a crash (go crash). [imitative]
Crash-land v. Land or cause (an aircraft etc.) To land hurriedly with a crash.
crash landing n.
Crass adj. Gross; grossly stupid. crassly adv. Crassness n. [latin crassus thick]
Crate —n. 1 slatted wooden case etc. For conveying esp. Fragile goods. 2 slang
old aircraft or other vehicle. —v. (-ting) pack in a crate. [perhaps from dutch]
-cratic comb. Form (also -cratical) denoting a type of government etc.
(autocratic). -cratically comb. Form forming adverbs. [forming adverbs]
Crave v. (-ving) (often foll. By for) long or beg for. [old english]
Crawl —v. 1 move slowly, esp. On hands and knees or with the body close to
the ground etc. 2 walk or move slowly. 3 colloq. Behave obsequiously. 4 (often
foll. By with) be or appear to be covered or filled with crawling or moving
things or people. 5 (esp. Of the skin) creep. —n. 1 crawling. 2 slow rate of
movement. 3 high-speed overarm swimming stroke. [origin unknown]
Crayon —n. Stick or pencil of coloured chalk, wax, etc. —v. Draw with crayons.
[french craie chalk]
Craze —v. (-zing) 1 (usu. As crazed adj.) Make insane (crazed with grief). 2
produce fine surface cracks on (pottery glaze etc.); develop such cracks. —n. 1
usu. Temporary enthusiasm (craze for skateboarding). 2 object of this. [perhaps
from old norse]
Crazy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. Insane or mad; foolish. 2 (usu. Foll. By about)
colloq. Extremely enthusiastic. 3 (attrib.) (of paving etc.) Made up of irregular
pieces. crazily adv. Craziness n.
Creak —n. Harsh scraping or squeaking sound. —v. 1 make a creak. 2 a move
stiffly or with a creaking noise. B be poorly constructed (plot creaks). [imitative]
Creaky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 liable to creak. 2 a stiff or frail. B decrepit, outmoded.
creakiness n.
Cream cheese n. Soft rich cheese made from cream and unskimmed milk.
Creamy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like cream. 2 rich in cream. creamily adv. Creaminess
n.
Crease —n. 1 line caused by folding or crushing. 2 cricket line marking the
position of a bowler or batsman. —v. (-sing) 1 make creases in. 2 develop
creases. 3 slang (often foll. By up) make or become incapable through laughter.
[from *crest]
Create v. (-ting) 1 bring into existence; cause. 2 originate (actor creates a part). 3
invest with rank (created him a lord). 4 slang make a fuss. [latin creo]
Creature n. 1 any living being, esp. An animal. 2 person of a specified kind (poor
creature). 3 subservient person. creaturely adj. [french from latin: related to
*create]
Credibility gap n. Apparent difference between what is said and what is true.
Credit —n. 1 source of honour, pride, etc. (is a credit to the school). 2
acknowledgement of merit. 3 good reputation. 4 belief or trust. 5 a person’s
financial standing, esp. As regards money in the bank etc. B power to obtain
goods etc. Before payment. 6 (usu. In pl.) Acknowledgement of a contributor’s
services to a film etc. 7 grade above pass in an examination. 8 reputation for
solvency and honesty in business. 9 a entry in an account of a sum paid into it. B
sum entered. C side of an account recording such entries. 10 educational course
counting towards a degree. —v. (-t-) 1 believe (cannot credit it). 2 (usu. Foll. By
to, with) enter on the credit side of an account. credit a person with ascribe (a
good quality) to a person. Do credit to (or do a person credit) enhance the
reputation of. On credit with an arrangement to pay later. To one’s credit in
one’s favour. [italian or latin: related to *credo]
Credit card n. Plastic card from a bank etc. Authorizing the purchase of goods on
credit.
Credit note n. Note with a specific monetary value given by a shop etc. For
goods returned.
Creek n. 1 a inlet on a sea-coast. B short arm of a river. 2 esp. Us, austral., & nz
tributary of a river; stream. up the creek slang 1 in difficulties. 2 crazy. [old
norse and dutch]
Creep —v. (past and past part. Crept) 1 move with the body prone and close to
the ground. 2 move stealthily or timidly. 3 advance very gradually (a feeling
crept over her). 4 colloq. Act obsequiously in the hope of advancement. 5 (of a
plant) grow along the ground or up a wall etc. 6 (as creeping adj.) Developing
slowly and steadily. 7 (of flesh) shiver or shudder from fear, horror, etc. —n. 1
act or spell of creeping. 2 (in pl.; prec. By the) colloq. Feeling of revulsion or
fear. 3 slang unpleasant person. 4 (of metals etc.) Gradual change of shape under
stress. [old english]
Creeper n. 1 climbing or creeping plant. 2 bird that climbs, esp. The treecreeper.
3 slang soft-soled shoe.
Creepy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Feeling or causing horror or fear. creepily adv.
Creepiness n.
Cremate v. (-ting) burn (a corpse etc.) To ashes. cremation n. [latin cremo burn]
Creosote —n. 1 dark-brown oil distilled from coal tar, used as a wood-
preservative. 2 oily fluid distilled from wood tar, used as an antiseptic. —v. (-
ting) treat with creosote. [greek kreas flesh, soter preserver, because of its
antiseptic properties]
Crêpe n. 1 fine gauzy wrinkled fabric. 2 thin pancake with a savoury or sweet
filling. 3 hard-wearing wrinkled sheet rubber used for the soles of shoes etc.
crêpey adj. Crêpy adj. [latin: related to *crisp]
Crescendo —n. (pl. -s) 1 mus. Gradual increase in loudness. 2 progress towards
a climax. —adv. & adj. Increasing in loudness. [italian: related to *crescent]
Usage crescendo is sometimes wrongly used to mean the climax itself rather
than progress towards it.
Crescent —n. 1 curved sickle shape as of the waxing or waning moon. 2 thing of
Crescent —n. 1 curved sickle shape as of the waxing or waning moon. 2 thing of
this shape, esp. A street forming an arc. —adj. Crescent-shaped. [latin cresco
grow]
Cress n. Any of various plants with pungent edible leaves. [old english]
Crest —n. 1 a comb or tuft etc. On a bird’s or animal’s head. B plume etc. On a
helmet etc. 2 top of a mountain, wave, roof, etc. 3 heraldry a device above a coat
of arms. B such a device on writing-paper etc. —v. 1 reach the crest of. 2
provide with a crest or serve as a crest to. 3 (of a wave) form a crest. crested adj.
[latin crista]
Cretaceous —adj. 1 of or like chalk. 2 (cretaceous) geol. Of the last period of the
mesozoic era, with deposits of chalk. —n. (cretaceous) geol. This era or system.
[latin creta chalk]
Cretin n. 1 deformed and mentally retarded person, esp. As the result of thyroid
deficiency. 2 colloq. Stupid person. cretinism n. Cretinous adj. [french crétin:
related to *christian]
Cretonne n. (often attrib.) Heavy cotton upholstery fabric, usu. With a floral
pattern. [creton in normandy]
Crew1 —n. (often treated as pl.) 1 a people manning a ship, aircraft, train, etc. B
these as distinct from the captain or officers. C people working together; team. 2
colloq. Gang. —v. 1 supply or act as a crew or crew member for. 2 act as a crew.
[latin cresco increase]
Crewel n. Thin worsted yarn for tapestry and embroidery. [origin unknown]
Crib —n. 1 a baby’s small bed or cot. B model of the nativity with a manger. 2
rack for animal fodder. 3 colloq. A translation of a text used by students. B
plagiarized work etc. 4 colloq. A cribbage. B set of cards given to the dealer at
cribbage. —v. (-bb-) (also absol.) 1 colloq. Copy unfairly. 2 confine in a small
space. 3 colloq. Pilfer. [old english]
Crick —n. Sudden painful stiffness, esp. In the neck. —v. Cause this in. [origin
unknown]
Cri de cœur n. (pl. Cris de cœur pronunc. Same) passionate appeal, protest, etc.
[french, = cry from the heart]
Crier n. (also cryer) 1 person who cries. 2 official making public announcements
in a lawcourt or street. [related to *cry]
Crimp —v. 1 press into small folds; corrugate. 2 make waves in (hair). —n.
Crimped thing or form. [low german or dutch]
Crimson —adj. Of a rich deep red. —n. This colour. [ultimately from arabic:
related to *kermes]
Crinkle —n. Wrinkle or crease. —v. (-ling) form crinkles (in). crinkly adj.
[related to *cringe]
Cripple —n. Permanently lame person. —v. (-ling) 1 make a cripple of; lame. 2
disable, weaken, or damage seriously (crippled by strikes). [old english]
Crisp —adj. 1 hard but brittle. 2 a (of air) bracing. B (of style or manner) lively,
brisk and decisive. C (of features etc.) Neat, clear-cut. D (of paper) stiff and
crackling. E (of hair) closely curling. —n. (in full potato crisp) potato sliced
thinly, fried, and sold in packets. —v. Make or become crisp. crisply adv.
Crispness n. [latin crispus curled]
Crispbread n. 1 thin crisp biscuit of crushed rye etc. 2 these collectively (packet
of crispbread).
Criss-cross —n. Pattern of crossing lines. —adj. Crossing; in cross lines. —adv.
Crosswise; at cross purposes. —v. 1 a intersect repeatedly. B move crosswise. 2
mark or make with a criss-cross pattern. [christ’s cross]
Usage the plural form of criterion, criteria, is often used incorrectly as the
singular. In the singular criterion should always be used.
singular. In the singular criterion should always be used.
Critic n. 1 person who criticizes. 2 person who reviews literary, artistic, etc.
Works. [latin criticus from greek krites judge]
Critical path n. Sequence of stages determining the minimum time needed for an
operation.
Criticize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (also absol.) 1 find fault with; censure. 2
discuss critically.
Croak —n. Deep hoarse sound, esp. Of a frog. —v. 1 utter or speak with a croak.
2 slang die. [imitative]
Crocodile n. 1 a large tropical amphibious reptile with thick scaly skin, a long
tail, and long jaws. B (often attrib.) Its skin. 2 colloq. Line of schoolchildren etc.
Walking in pairs. [greek krokodilos]
Crocus n. (pl. -cuses) small plant with white, yellow, or purple flowers, growing
from a corm. [latin from greek]
Croft —n. 1 enclosed piece of (usu. Arable) land. 2 small rented farm in scotland
or n. England. —v. Farm a croft; live as a crofter. [old english]
Crooked adj. (-er, -est) 1 not straight or level; bent. 2 colloq. Not
straightforward; dishonest, criminal. crookedly adv. Crookedness n.
straightforward; dishonest, criminal. crookedly adv. Crookedness n.
Croon —v. Sing, hum, or say in a low sentimental voice. —n. Such singing etc.
crooner n. [low german or dutch]
Crop-eared adj. With the ears (esp. Of animals) or hair cut short.
Croquet —n. 1 lawn game in which wooden balls are driven through hoops with
mallets. 2 act of croqueting a ball. —v. (croqueted; croqueting) drive away (an
opponent’s ball) by placing and then striking one’s own against it. [perhaps a
dial. Form of french crochet hook]
Croquette n. Ball of breaded and fried mashed potato etc. [french croquer
crunch]
Crosier n. (also crozier) bishop’s ceremonial hooked staff. [french croisier cross-
Crosier n. (also crozier) bishop’s ceremonial hooked staff. [french croisier cross-
bearer and crossier crook-bearer]
Cross —n. 1 upright post with a transverse bar, as used in antiquity for
crucifixion. 2 a (the cross) cross on which christ was crucified. B representation
of this as an emblem of christianity. C = *sign of the cross. 3 staff surmounted
by a cross, carried in a religious procession. 4 thing or mark like a cross, esp.
Two short intersecting lines (+ or x). 5 cross-shaped military etc. Decoration. 6 a
hybrid. B crossing of breeds etc. 7 (foll. By between) mixture of two things. 8
crosswise movement, pass in football, etc. 9 trial or affliction. —v. 1 (often foll.
By over) go across. 2 intersect; (cause to) be across (roads cross; cross one’s
legs). 3 a draw line(s) across. B mark (a cheque) with two parallel lines to
indicate that it cannot be cashed. 4 (foll. By off, out, through) cancel etc. By
drawing lines across. 5 (often refl.) Make the sign of the cross on or over. 6 a
pass in opposite or different directions. B (of letters etc.) Be sent at the same
time. C (of telephone lines) be connected to an unwanted conversation. 7 a cause
to interbreed. B cross-fertilize (plants). 8 oppose or thwart (crossed in love). —
adj. 1 (often foll. By with) peevish, angry. 2 (usu. Attrib.) Transverse; reaching
from side to side. 3 (usu. Attrib.) Intersecting. 4 (usu. Attrib.) Contrary, opposed,
reciprocal. at cross purposes misunderstanding; conflicting. Cross one’s fingers
(or keep one’s fingers crossed) 1 put one finger across another to ward off bad
luck. 2 trust in good luck. Cross one’s heart make a solemn pledge, esp. By
crossing one’s front. Cross one’s mind occur to one, esp. Transiently. Cross
swords (often foll. By with) argue or dispute. Cross wires (or get one’s wires
crossed) 1 become wrongly connected by telephone. 2 have a misunderstanding.
On the cross diagonally. crossly adv. Crossness n. [latin crux]
Crossbill n. Finch with a bill with crossed mandibles for opening pine cones.
Cross-country —adj. & adv. 1 across open country. 2 not keeping to main roads.
—n. (pl. -ies) cross-country race.
Cross-cut —adj. Cut across the main grain. —n. Diagonal cut, path, etc.
Crossing n. 1 place where things (esp. Roads) cross. 2 place for crossing a street
etc. 3 journey across water.
Cross-legged adj. (sitting) with legs folded one across the other.
Crossply adj. (of a tyre) having fabric layers with crosswise cords.
Cross-question v. = *cross-examine.
Cross-reference —n. Reference from one part of a book etc. To another. —v.
Provide with cross-references.
Crossword n. (also crossword puzzle) printed grid of squares and blanks for
vertical and horizontal words to be filled in from clues.
Crotch n. Fork, esp. Between legs (of a person, trousers, etc.). [related to *crook]
Crotchet n. Mus. Note equal to a quarter of a semibreve and usu. One beat.
[french diminutive of croc: related to *crook]
Crouch —v. Lower the body with limbs close to the chest; be in this position. —
n. Crouching; crouching position. [old norse: related to *crook]
Croupier n. Person running a gaming-table, raking in and paying out money etc.
[french: related to *croup2]
Croûton n. Small cube of fried or toasted bread served with soup etc. [french:
related to *crust]
Crow1 n. 1 large black bird with a powerful black beak. 2 similar bird, e.g. The
raven, rook, and jackdaw. as the crow flies in a straight line. [old english]
Crow2 —v. 1 (past crowed or crew) (of a cock) utter a loud cry. 2 (of a baby)
utter happy cries. 3 (usu. Foll. By over) gloat; show glee. —n. Cry of a cock or
baby. [old english]
Crown —n. 1 monarch’s jewelled headdress. 2 (the crown) a monarch as head of
state. B power or authority of the monarchy. 3 a wreath for the head as an
emblem of victory. B award or distinction, esp. In sport. 4 crown-shaped
ornament etc. 5 top part of the head, a hat, etc. 6 a highest or central part (crown
of the road). B thing that completes or forms a summit. 7 a part of a tooth visible
outside the gum. B artificial replacement for this. 8 former british coin worth
five shillings. —v. 1 put a crown on (a person or head). 2 invest with a royal
crown or authority. 3 be a crown to; rest on top of. 4 a (often as crowning adj.)
(cause to) be the reward, summit, or finishing touch to (crowning glory). B bring
to a happy outcome. 5 fit a crown to (a tooth). 6 slang hit on the head. 7 promote
(a piece in draughts) to king. [latin corona]
Crown derby n. Porcelain made at derby and often marked with a crown.
Crown glass n. Glass without lead or iron used formerly in windows, now as
optical glass of low refractive index.
Cru n. 1 french vineyard or wine region. 2 grade of wine. [french crû grown]
Crucial adj. 1 decisive, critical. 2 very important. crucially adv. [latin crux crucis
cross]
Crucible n. 1 melting-pot for metals etc. 2 severe test. [medieval latin: related to
*crucial]
Cruciferous adj. Having flowers with four petals arranged in a cross. [latin:
related to *crucial]
Crucifix n. Model of a cross with the figure of christ on it. [latin cruci fixus fixed
to a cross]
Crud n. Slang 1 deposit of grease etc. 2 unpleasant person. cruddy adj. (-ier, -
iest). [var. Of *curd]
Crude —adj. 1 a in the natural state; not refined. B unpolished; lacking finish. 2
a rude, blunt. B offensive, indecent. 3 inexact. —n. Natural mineral oil. crudely
adv. Crudeness n. Crudity n. [latin crudus raw]
Cruet n. 1 set of small salt, pepper, etc. Containers for use at table. 2 such a
container. [anglo-french diminutive: related to *crock2]
Cruise —v. (-sing) 1 a travel by sea for pleasure, calling at ports. B sail about. 2
travel at a relaxed or economical speed. 3 achieve an objective, esp. Win a race
etc. With ease. 4 slang search for a sexual (esp. Homosexual) partner in bars,
streets, etc. —n. Cruising voyage. [dutch: related to *cross]
Crumble —v. (-ling) 1 break or fall into small fragments. 2 (of power etc.)
Gradually disintegrate. —n. Dish of stewed fruit with a crumbly topping.
Crumbly adj. (-ier, -iest) consisting of, or apt to fall into, crumbs or fragments.
crumbliness n.
Crumbs int. Slang expressing dismay or surprise. [euphemism for *christ]
Crummy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang dirty, squalid; inferior, worthless. crumminess n.
[var. Of *crumby]
Crumpet n. 1 soft flat yeasty cake toasted and buttered. 2 joc. Or offens.
Sexually attractive woman or women. [origin uncertain]
Crumple —v. (-ling) (often foll. By up) 1 crush or become crushed into creases
or wrinkles. 2 collapse, give way. —n. Crease or wrinkle. [obsolete crump curl
up]
Crunch —v. 1 a crush noisily with the teeth. B grind under foot, wheels, etc. 2
(often foll. By up, through) make a crunching sound. —n. 1 crunching;
crunching sound. 2 colloq. Decisive event or moment. [imitative]
Crupper n. 1 strap looped under a horse’s tail to hold the harness back. 2
hindquarters of a horse. [french: related to *croup2]
Crust —n. 1 a hard outer part of bread. B hard dry scrap of bread. C slang
livelihood. 2 pastry covering of a pie. 3 hard casing over a soft thing. 4 outer
portion of the earth. 5 deposit, esp. From wine on a bottle. —v. Cover or become
covered with or form into a crust. [latin crusta rind, shell]
Crustacean —n. Esp. Aquatic arthropod with a hard shell, e.g. The crab, lobster,
and shrimp. —adj. Of crustaceans.
Crusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having a crisp crust. 2 irritable, curt. crustily adv.
Crustiness n.
Crutch n. 1 usu. T-shaped support for a lame person fitting under the armpit. 2
support, prop. 3 crotch. [old english]
Cry —v. (cries, cried) 1 (often foll. By out) make a loud or shrill sound, esp. To
express pain, grief, etc., or to appeal for help. 2 shed tears; weep. 3 (often foll.
By out) say or exclaim loudly or excitedly. 4 (foll. By for) appeal, demand, or
show a need for. 5 (of an animal, esp. A bird) make a loud call. —n. (pl. Cries) 1
loud shout or scream of grief, pain, etc. 2 spell of weeping. 3 loud excited
utterance. 4 urgent appeal. 5 a public demand or opinion. B rallying call. 6 call
of an animal. cry down disparage. Cry off withdraw from an undertaking. Cry
out for need as an obvious requirement or solution. Cry wolf see *wolf. [latin
quirito]
Crypt n. Vault, esp. Beneath a church, used usu. As a burial-place. [latin crypta
Crypt n. Vault, esp. Beneath a church, used usu. As a burial-place. [latin crypta
from greek kruptos hidden]
Cryptogam n. Plant with no true flowers or seeds, e.g. Ferns, mosses, and fungi.
cryptogamous adj. [as *crypt, greek gamos marriage]
Crystalline adj. 1 of, like, or clear as crystal. 2 having the structure and form of a
crystal. crystallinity n.
Crystallize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 form into crystals. 2 (often foll. By
out) (of ideas or plans) make or become definite. 3 make or become coated or
impregnated with sugar (crystallized fruit). crystallization n.
Cs symb. Caesium.
Cs gas n. Tear-gas used to control riots etc. [corson and stoughton, names of
chemists]
Cub —n. 1 young of a fox, bear, lion, etc. 2 (cub) (in full cub scout) junior scout.
3 colloq. Young newspaper reporter. —v. (-bb-) (also absol.) Give birth to
(cubs). [origin unknown]
Cubic metre etc. N. Volume of a cube whose edge is one metre etc.
Cuckoo —n. Bird having a characteristic cry, and laying its eggs in the nests of
small birds. —predic. Adj. Slang crazy. [french, imitative]
Cuckoo clock n. Clock with the figure of a cuckoo emerging to make a call on
the hour.
Cucumber n. 1 long green fleshy fruit, used in salads. 2 climbing plant yielding
this. [french from latin]
Cuddle —v. (-ling) 1 hug, fondle. 2 nestle together, lie close and snug. —n.
Prolonged and fond hug. cuddlesome adj. [origin uncertain]
Cuddly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person, toy, etc.) Soft and yielding. 2 given to
cuddling.
Cudgel —n. Short thick stick used as a weapon. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) beat with a
cudgel. [old english]
Cue2 billiards etc. —n. Long rod for striking a ball. —v. (cues, cued, cueing or
cuing) strike (a ball) with or use a cue. [var. Of *queue]
Cuff1 n. 1 end part of a sleeve. 2 us trouser turn-up. 3 (in pl.) Colloq. Handcuffs.
off the cuff colloq. Without preparation, extempore. [origin unknown]
Cuff2 —v. Strike with an open hand. —n. Such a blow. [perhaps imitative]
Cull —v. 1 select or gather (knowledge culled from books). 2 gather (flowers
etc.). 3 a select (animals), esp. For killing. B reduce the population of (an
animal) by selective slaughter. —n. 1 culling or being culled. 2 animal(s) culled.
[french: related to *collect1]
Culminate v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By in) reach its highest or final point (culminate
in war). culmination n. [latin culmen top]
Cultivate v. (-ting) 1 prepare and use (soil etc.) For crops or gardening. 2 a raise
(crops). B culture (bacteria etc.). 3 a (often as cultivated adj.) Improve (the mind,
manners, etc.). B nurture (a person, friendship, etc.). cultivable adj. Cultivation
n. [latin colo cult-till, worship]
Cultured pearl n. Pearl formed by an oyster after the insertion of a foreign body
into its shell.
Cum prep. (usu. In comb.) With, combined with, also used as (bedroom-cum-
study). [latin]
Cumulus n. (pl. -li) cloud formation of rounded masses heaped up on a flat base.
[latin, = heap]
Cunnilingus n. Oral stimulation of the female genitals. [latin cunnus vulva, lingo
lick]
Cup —n. 1 small bowl-shaped container for drinking from. 2 a its contents. B =
*cupful. 3 cup-shaped thing. 4 flavoured wine, cider, etc., usu. Chilled. 5 cup-
shaped trophy as a prize. 6 one’s fate or fortune (a bitter cup). —v. (-pp-) 1 form
(esp. The hands) into the shape of a cup. 2 take or hold as in a cup. one’s cup of
tea colloq. What interests or suits one. [medieval latin cuppa]
Cupid n. 1 roman god of love, represented as a naked winged boy archer. 2 (also
cupid) representation of cupid. [latin cupio desire]
cupid) representation of cupid. [latin cupio desire]
Curable adj. Able to be cured. curability n.
Curative —adj. Tending or able to cure. —n. Curative agent. [medieval latin:
related to *curate]
Curb —n. 1 check, restraint. 2 strap etc. Passing under a horse’s lower jaw, used
as a check. 3 enclosing border, e.g. The frame round a well or a fender round a
hearth. 4 = kerb. —v. 1 restrain. 2 put a curb on (a horse). [french: related to
curve]
Curd n. (often in pl.) Coagulated acidic milk product made into cheese or eaten
as food. [origin unknown]
Curd cheese n. Soft smooth cheese made from skimmed milk curds.
Curdle v. (-ling) form into curds; congeal. make one’s blood curdle horrify one.
[from *curd]
Cure —v. (-ring) 1 (often foll. By of) restore to health; relieve (cured of
pleurisy). 2 eliminate (disease, evil, etc.). 3 preserve (meat, fruit, etc.) By salting,
drying, etc. 4 vulcanize (rubber); harden (plastic etc.). —n. 1 restoration to
health. 2 thing effecting a cure. 3 course of treatment. 4 curacy. [latin cura care]
Cure-all n. Panacea.
Curfew n. 1 signal or time after which people must remain indoors. 2 hist. Signal
for extinction of fires at a fixed hour. [french: related to cover, latin focus]
Curia n. (also curia) papal court; government departments of the vatican. [latin]
Curiosity n. (pl. -ies) 1 eager desire to know; inquisitiveness. 2 strange, rare, etc.
Object. [latin: related to *curious]
Curl —v. 1 (often foll. By up) bend or coil into a spiral. 2 move in a spiral form.
3 a (of the upper lip) be raised contemptuously. B cause (the lip) to do this. 4
play curling. —n. 1 lock of curled hair. 2 anything spiral or curved inwards. 3 a
curling movement. B being curled. curl one’s lip express scorn. Curl up 1 lie or
sit with the knees drawn up. 2 colloq. Writhe in embarrassment etc. [dutch]
Curling n. Game resembling bowls, played on ice with round flat stones.
Currant n. 1 small seedless dried grape. 2 a any of various shrubs producing red,
white, or black berries. B such a berry. [anglo-french from corinth in greece]
Current —adj. 1 belonging to the present; happening now (current events). 2 (of
money, opinion, rumour, etc.) In general circulation or use. —n. 1 body of
moving water, air, etc., esp. Passing through still water etc. 2 a ordered
movement of electrically charged particles. B quantity representing the intensity
of this. 3 (usu. Foll. By of) general tendency or course (of events, opinions, etc.).
currentness n. [latin curro curs-run]
Currently adv. At the present time; now.
Curry1 —n. (pl. -ies) meat, vegetables, etc., cooked in a spicy sauce, usu. Served
with rice. —v. (-ies, -ied) prepare or flavour with a curry sauce. [tamil]
Cursive —adj. (of writing) with joined characters. —n. Cursive writing.
[medieval latin, = running: related to *current]
Cursor n. 1 math. Etc. Transparent slide with a hairline, forming part of a slide-
rule. 2 computing indicator on a vdu screen identifying esp. The position that the
program will operate on with the next keystroke. [latin, = runner: related to
*cursive]
Curt adj. Noticeably or rudely brief. curtly adv. Curtness n. [latin curtus short]
Curtain —n. 1 piece of cloth etc. Hung as a screen, esp. At a window. 2 a rise or
fall of a stage curtain between acts or scenes. B = *curtain-call. 3 partition or
cover. 4 (in pl.) Slang the end. —v. 1 provide or cover with curtain(s). 2 (foll. By
off) shut off with curtain(s). [latin cortina]
Curtilage n. Esp. Law area attached to a house and forming one enclosure with
it. [french: related to *court]
Curtsy (also curtsey) —n. (pl. -ies or -eys) bending of the knees and lowering of
the body made by a girl or woman in acknowledgement of applause or as a
respectful greeting etc. —v. (-ies, -ied or -eys, -eyed) make a curtsy. [var. Of
*courtesy]
Curve —n. 1 line or surface of which no part is straight or flat. 2 curved form or
thing. 3 curved line on a graph. —v. (-ving) bend or shape to form a curve.
curved adj. [latin curvus curved]
Curvet —n. Horse’s frisky leap. —v. (-tt-or -t-) perform a curvet. [italian
diminutive: related to *curve]
Curvy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having many curves. 2 (of a woman’s figure) shapely.
curviness n.
Cushion —n. 1 bag stuffed with soft material, for sitting or leaning on etc. 2
protection against shock; measure to soften a blow. 3 padded rim of a billiard-
table etc. 4 air supporting a hovercraft etc. —v. 1 provide or protect with
cushion(s). 2 mitigate the adverse effects of. [latin culcita mattress]
Cushy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. (of a job etc.) Easy and pleasant. [hindi khush
pleasant]
Cusp n. Point at which two curves meet, e.g. The horn of a crescent moon etc.
[latin cuspis -id-point, apex]
Cuss colloq. —n. 1 curse. 2 usu. Derog. Person; creature. —v. Curse. [var. Of
*curse]
Cut —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Cut) 1 (also absol.) Penetrate or wound with a
sharp-edged instrument. 2 (often foll. By into) divide or be divided with a knife
etc. 3 trim or detach by cutting. 4 (foll. By loose, open, etc.) Loosen etc. By
cutting. 5 (esp. As cutting adj.) Wound (cutting remark). 6 (often foll. By down)
reduce (wages, time, etc.) Or cease (services etc.). 7 a make (a coat, gem, key,
record, etc.) By cutting. B make (a path, tunnel, etc.) By removing material. 8
perform, make (cut a caper; cut a sorry figure). 9 (also absol.) Cross, intersect.
10 (foll. By across, through, etc.) Traverse, esp. As a shorter way (cut across the
grass). 11 a deliberately ignore (a person one knows). B renounce (a
connection). 12 esp. Us deliberately miss (a class etc.). 13 cards a divide (a pack)
into two parts. B do this to select a dealer etc. 14 a edit (film or tape). B (often in
imper.) Stop filming or recording. C (foll. By to) go quickly to (another shot). 15
switch off (an engine etc.). 16 chop (a ball). —n. 1 cutting. 2 division or wound
made by cutting. 3 stroke with a knife, sword, whip, etc. 4 a reduction (in wages
etc.). B cessation (of power supply etc.). 5 removal of lines etc. From a play,
film, etc. 6 wounding remark or act. 7 style of hair, garment, etc. Achieved by
cutting. 8 particular piece of butchered meat. 9 colloq. Commission; share of
profits. 10 stroke made by cutting. 11 deliberate ignoring of a person. 12 =
*woodcut. a cut above colloq. Noticeably superior to. Be cut out (foll. By for, or
to + infin.) Be suited. Cut across 1 transcend (normal limitations etc.). 2 see
sense 10 of v. Cut and run slang run away. Cut back 1 reduce (expenditure etc.).
2 prune (a tree etc.). Cut both ways 1 serve both sides of an argument etc. 2 (of
an action) have both good and bad effects. Cut a corner go across it. Cut corners
do perfunctorily or incompletely, esp. To save time. Cut a dash make a brilliant
show. Cut a person dead deliberately ignore (a person one knows). Cut down 1 a
bring or throw down by cutting. B kill by sword or disease. 2 see sense 6 of v. 3
reduce the length of (cut down trousers to make shorts). 4 (often foll. By on)
reduce consumption (cut down on beer). Cut a person down to size colloq.
Deflate a person’s pretensions. Cut in 1 interrupt. 2 pull in too closely in front of
another vehicle. Cut it fine allow very little margin of time etc. Cut it out (usu. In
imper.) Slang stop doing that. Cut one’s losses abandon an unprofitable scheme.
Cut no ice slang have no influence. Cut off 1 remove by cutting. 2 a (often in
passive) bring to an abrupt end or (esp. Early) death. B intercept, interrupt. C
disconnect (a person on the telephone). 3 a prevent from travelling. B (as cut off
adj.) Isolated or remote. 4 disinherit. Cut out 1 remove from inside by cutting. 2
make by cutting from a larger whole. 3 omit. 4 colloq. Stop doing or using
(something) (cut out chocolate). 5 (cause to) cease functioning (engine cut out).
6 outdo or supplant (a rival). Cut short interrupt; terminate. Cut one’s teeth on
acquire experience from.
Cut and dried adj. 1 completely decided; inflexible. 2 (of opinions etc.) Ready-
made, lacking freshness.
Cutaway attrib. Adj. (of a diagram etc.) With parts of the exterior left out to
reveal the interior.
reveal the interior.
Cute adj. Colloq. 1 esp. Us attractive, quaint. 2 clever, ingenious. cutely adv.
Cuteness n. [shortening of *acute]
Cut glass n. (often hyphenated when attrib.) Glass with patterns cut on it.
Cutlass n. Hist. Short sword with a slightly curved blade. [latin cultellus: related
to *cutler]
Cutler n. Person who makes or deals in knives etc. [latin cultellus diminutive:
related to *coulter]
Cutlery n. Knives, forks, and spoons for use at table. [anglo-french: related to
*cutler]
Cutlet n. 1 neck-chop of mutton or lamb. 2 small piece of veal etc. For frying. 3
flat cake of minced meat or nuts and breadcrumbs etc. [french diminutive from
latin costa rib]
Cut-off n. 1 (often attrib.) Point at which something is cut off. 2 device for
stopping a flow.
Cut-out n. 1 figure cut out of paper etc. 2 device for automatic disconnection, the
release of exhaust gases, etc.
Cutter n. 1 a person or thing that cuts. B (in pl.) Cutting tool. 2 a small fast
sailing-ship. B small boat carried by a large ship.
Cutthroat —n. 1 murderer. 2 (in full cutthroat razor) razor with a long unguarded
blade set in a handle. —adj. 1 (of competition) ruthless and intense. 2 (of a card-
game) three-handed.
Cutting —n. 1 piece cut from a newspaper etc. 2 piece cut from a plant for
propagation. 3 excavated channel in a hillside etc. For a railway or road. —adj.
See *cut v. 5. cuttingly adv.
Cuttlefish n. (pl. Same or -es) mollusc with ten arms and ejecting a black fluid
when threatened. [old english]
Cutwater n. 1 forward edge of a ship’s prow. 2 wedge-shaped projection from a
pier or bridge.
-cy suffix denoting state, condition, or status (idiocy; captaincy). [latin -cia,
greek -kia]
Cyanic acid n. Unstable colourless pungent acid gas. [greek kuanos a blue
mineral]
Cyanide n. Highly poisonous substance used in the extraction of gold and silver.
Cycad n. Palmlike plant often growing to a great height. [greek koix egyptian
palm]
Cycle —n. 1 a recurrent round or period (of events, phenomena, etc.). B time
needed for this. 2 a physics etc. Recurrent series of operations or states. B electr.
= *hertz. 3 series of related songs, poems, etc. 4 bicycle, tricycle, etc. —v. (-
ling) 1 ride a bicycle etc. 2 move in cycles. [greek kuklos circle]
Cylinder n. 1 uniform solid or hollow body with straight sides and a circular
section. 2 thing of this shape, e.g. A container for liquefied gas, a piston-
chamber in an engine. cylindrical adj. [latin cylindrus from greek]
Cymbal n. Concave disc, struck usu. With another to make a ringing sound.
cymbalist n. [latin from greek]
Cyme n. Flower cluster with a single terminal flower that develops first. cymose
adj. [greek kuma wave]
Cypress n. Conifer with hard wood and dark foliage. [greek kuparissos]
Cyrillic —adj. Of the alphabet used by the slavonic peoples of the orthodox
church, now used esp. For russian and bulgarian. —n. This alphabet. [st cyril, d.
869]
Cyst n. Sac formed in the body, containing liquid matter. [greek kustis bladder]
Cytology n. The study of cells. cytological adj. Cytologist n. [greek kutos vessel]
D1 n. (also d) (pl. Ds or d’s) 1 fourth letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Second note
of the diatonic scale of c major. 3 (as a roman numeral) 500. 4 = *dee. 5 fourth
highest class or category (of academic marks etc.).
D2 symb. Deuterium.
Dab1 —v. (-bb-) 1 (often foll. By at) repeatedly press briefly and lightly with a
cloth etc. (dabbed at her eyes). 2 press (a cloth etc.) Thus. 3 (foll. By on) apply
by dabbing. 4 (often foll. By at) aim a feeble blow; strike lightly. —n. 1 dabbing.
2 small amount thus applied (dab of paint). 3 light blow. 4 (in pl.) Slang
fingerprints. [imitative]
Dabble v. (-ling) 1 (usu. Foll. By in, at) engage (in an activity etc.) Superficially.
2 move the feet, hands, etc. In esp. Shallow liquid. 3 wet partly; stain, splash.
dabbler n. [from *dab1]
Dabchick n. = *little grebe. [old english]
Dab hand n. (usu. Foll. By at) colloq. Expert. [dab adept, origin unknown]
Dace n. (pl. Same) small freshwater fish related to the carp. [french dars: related
to *dart]
Dactyl n. Metrical foot consisting of one long syllable followed by two short
syllables (&dactyl.). dactylic adj. [greek, = finger]
Dado n. (pl. -s) 1 lower, differently decorated, part of an interior wall. 2 plinth of
a column. 3 cube of a pedestal between the base and the cornice. [italian: related
to *die2]
Dago n. (pl. -s) slang offens. Foreigner, esp. A spaniard, portuguese, or italian.
[spanish diego = james]
Dáil n. (in full dáil éireann) lower house of parliament in the republic of ireland.
[irish, = assembly (of ireland)]
Daily —adj. Done, produced, or occurring every day or every weekday. —adv. 1
every day. 2 constantly. —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 daily newspaper. 2 cleaning
woman.
Dainty —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 delicately pretty. 2 delicate or small. 3 (of food)
choice. 4 fastidious; discriminating. —n. (pl. -ies) choice delicacy. daintily adv.
Daintiness n. [latin dignitas *dignity]
Daiquiri n. (pl. -s) cocktail of rum, lime juice, etc. [daiquiri in cuba]
Dairy n. (pl. -ies) 1 place for processing, distributing, or selling milk and its
products. 2 (attrib.) Of, containing, or used for, dairy products (and sometimes
eggs) (dairy cow). [old english]
Dais n. Low platform, usu. At the upper end of a hall. [latin *discus disc, (later)
table]
Daisy n. (pl. -ies) 1 small wild plant with white-petalled flowers. 2 plant with
similar flowers. [old english, = day’s eye]
Daisy wheel n. Spoked disc bearing printing characters, used in word processors
and typewriters.
Dally v. (-ies, -ied) 1 delay; waste time. 2 (often foll. By with) flirt, trifle.
dalliance n. [french]
Dal segno adv. Mus. Repeat from the point marked by a sign. [italian, = from the
sign]
Dam1 —n. 1 barrier across river etc., forming a reservoir or preventing flooding.
2 barrier made by beaver. —v. (-mm-) 1 provide or confine with a dam. 2 (often
foll. By up) block up; obstruct. [low german or dutch]
Damage —n. 1 harm or injury. 2 (in pl.) Law financial compensation for loss or
injury. 3 (prec. By the) slang cost. —v. (-ging) inflict damage on. [latin
damnum]
Damascene —v. (-ning) decorate (metal) by etching or inlaying esp. With gold
or silver. —n. Design or article produced in this way. —adj. Of this process.
[damascus in syria]
Damask —n. Reversible figured woven fabric, esp. White table linen. —adj. 1
made of damask. 2 velvety pink. —v. Weave with figured designs. [as
*damascene]
Damn —v. 1 (often absol. Or as int. Of anger or annoyance, = may god damn)
curse (a person or thing). 2 doom to hell; cause the damnation of. 3 condemn,
censure (review damning the book). 4 a (often as damning adj.) (of
circumstance, evidence, etc.) Show or prove to be guilty. B be the ruin of. —n. 1
uttered curse. 2 slang negligible amount. —adj. & adv. Colloq. = *damned.
damn all slang nothing at all. Damn well colloq. (for emphasis) simply (damn
well do as i say). Damn with faint praise commend feebly, and so imply
disapproval. I’m (or i’ll be) damned if colloq. I certainly do not, will not, etc.
Not give a damn see *give. Well i’m (or i’ll be) damned colloq. Exclamation of
surprise etc. [latin damnum loss]
Damp —adj. Slightly wet. —n. Slight diffused or condensed moisture, esp.
When unwelcome. —v. 1 make damp; moisten. 2 (often foll. By down) a
temper; mute (damps my enthusiasm). B make (a fire) burn less strongly by
reducing the flow of air to it. 3 reduce or stop the vibration of (esp. Strings of a
musical instrument). damply adv. Dampness n. [low german]
musical instrument). damply adv. Dampness n. [low german]
Damselfly n. Insect like a dragonfly but with wings folded when resting.
Dance —v. (-cing) 1 move rhythmically, usu. To music. 2 skip or jump about. 3
perform (a specified dance, role, etc.). 4 bob up and down. 5 dandle (a child). —
perform (a specified dance, role, etc.). 4 bob up and down. 5 dandle (a child). —
n. 1 a dancing as an art form. B style or form of this. 2 social gathering for
dancing. 3 single round or turn of a dance. 4 music for dancing to. 5 lively
motion. dance attendance on serve obsequiously. Lead a person a dance (or
merry dance) cause a person much trouble. danceable adj. Dancer n. [french]
D. And c. N. Dilatation (of the cervix) and curettage (of the uterus).
Dandelion n. Wild plant with jagged leaves, a yellow flower, and a fluffy seed-
head. [french dent-de-lion, = lion’s tooth]
Dandy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 man greatly devoted to style and fashion. 2 colloq.
Excellent thing. —adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Us colloq. Splendid. [perhaps from the
name andrew]
name andrew]
Dangle v. (-ling) 1 be loosely suspended and able to sway. 2 hold or carry thus. 3
hold out (hope, temptation, etc.) Enticingly. [imitative]
Danish —adj. Of denmark or the danes. —n. 1 danish language. 2 (prec. By the;
treated as pl.) The danish people. [latin: related to *dane]
Danish pastry n. Yeast cake topped with icing, fruit, nuts, etc.
Dank adj. Disagreeably damp and cold. dankly adv. Dankness n. [probably
scandinavian]
scandinavian]
Dapper adj. 1 neat and precise, esp. In dress. 2 sprightly. [low german or dutch
dapper strong]
Dapple —v. (-ling) mark or become marked with spots of colour or shade. —n.
Dappled effect. [origin unknown]
Dapple-grey adj. (of an animal’s coat) grey or white with darker spots.
Darby and joan n. Devoted old married couple. [names of a couple in an 18th-c.
Poem]
Dare —v. (-ring; 3rd sing. Present usu. Dare before an expressed or implied
infinitive without to) 1 (foll. By infin. With or without to) have the courage or
impudence (to) (dare he do it?; if they dare to come; how dare you?). 2 (usu.
Foll. By to + infin.) Defy or challenge (i dare you to own up). —n. 1 act of
daring. 2 challenge, esp. To prove courage. i dare say 1 (often foll. By that) it is
probable. 2 probably; i grant that much. [old english]
Dark —adj. 1 with little or no light. 2 of deep or sombre colour. 3 (of a person)
with dark colouring. 4 gloomy, dismal. 5 evil, sinister. 6 sullen, angry. 7 secret,
mysterious. 8 ignorant, unenlightened. —n. 1 absence of light. 2 lack of
knowledge. 3 dark area or colour, esp. In painting. after dark after nightfall. The
dark ages (or age) 1 period of european history from the 5th–10th c. 2 period of
supposed unenlightenment. In the dark 1 lacking information. 2 with no light.
darkish adj. Darkly adv. Darkness n. [old english]
Darken v. Make or become dark or darker. never darken a person’s door keep
away permanently. darkener n.
Darn1 —v. Mend (cloth etc.) By filling a hole with stitching. —n. Darned area.
[origin uncertain]
Darn2 v., int., adj., & adv. Colloq. = *damn (in imprecatory senses). [corruption]
Dart —n. 1 small pointed missile. 2 (in pl.; usu. Treated as sing.) Indoor game of
throwing darts at a dartboard to score points. 3 sudden rapid movement. 4
dartlike structure, e.g. An insect’s sting. 5 tapering tuck in a garment. —v. (often
foll. By out, in, past, etc.) Move, send, or go suddenly or rapidly. [french from
germanic]
Data n.pl. (also treated as sing., although the singular form is strictly datum) 1
known facts used for inference or in reckoning. 2 quantities or characters
operated on by a computer etc. [latin data from do give]
Usage (1) in scientific, philosophical, and general use, this word is usually
considered to denote a number of items and is thus treated as plural with datum
as the singular. (2) in computing and allied subjects (and sometimes in general
use), it is treated as a mass (or collective) noun and used with words like this,
that, and much, with singular verbs, e.g. Useful data has been collected. Some
people consider use (2) to be incorrect but it is more common than use (1).
However, data is not a singular countable noun and cannot be preceded by a,
every, each, either, or neither, or be given a plural form datas.
Date1 —n. 1 day of the month, esp. As a number. 2 particular, esp. Historical,
day or year. 3 day, month, and year of writing etc., at the head of a document
etc. 4 period to which a work of art etc. Belongs. 5 time when an event takes
place. 6 colloq. A appointment, esp. Social with a person of the opposite sex. B
us person to be met at this. —v. (-ting) 1 mark with a date. 2 a assign a date to
(an object, event, etc.). B (foll. By to) assign to a particular time, period, etc. 3
(often foll. By from, back to, etc.) Have its origins at a particular time. 4 appear
or expose as old-fashioned (design that does not date; that hat dates you). 5 us
colloq. A make a date with. B go out together as sexual partners. out of date
(attrib. Out-of-date) old-fashioned, obsolete. To date until now. Up to date
(attrib. Up-to-date) modern; fashionable; current. [french: related to *data]
Date2 n. 1 dark oval single-stoned fruit. 2 (in full date-palm) tree bearing it.
[greek: related to *dactyl, from the shape of the leaf]
Date-line n. 1 north–south line partly along the meridian 180° from greenwich,
to the east of which the date is a day earlier than to the west. 2 date and place of
writing at the head of a newspaper article etc.
Date-stamp —n. Adjustable rubber stamp etc. Used to record a date. —v. Mark
with a date-stamp.
Dative gram. —n. Case expressing the indirect object or recipient. —adj. Of or
in this case. [latin: related to *data]
Daub —v. 1 spread (paint etc.) Crudely or roughly. 2 coat or smear (a surface)
with paint etc. 3 paint crudely or unskilfully. —n. 1 paint etc. Daubed on a
surface. 2 plaster, clay, etc., esp. Coating laths or wattles to form a wall. 3 crude
painting. [latin: related to de-, alb]
Daughter n. 1 girl or woman in relation to her parent(s). 2 female descendant. 3
(foll. By of) female member of a family etc. 4 (foll. By of) female descendant or
inheritor of a quality etc. daughterly adj. [old english]
Daunt v. Discourage, intimidate. daunting adj. [latin domito from domo tame]
Dauphin n. Hist. Eldest son of the king of france. [french from latin delphinus
*dolphin, as a family name]
Davit n. Small crane on board ship, esp. For moving or holding a lifeboat.
[french diminutive of david]
Davy n. (pl. -ies) (in full davy lamp) miner’s safety lamp. [name of its inventor]
Davy jones n. Slang (in full davy jones’s locker) bottom of the sea, esp. As the
sailors’ graveyard. [origin unknown]
Daw n. = *jackdaw. [old english]
Dawdle v. (-ling) 1 walk slowly and idly. 2 waste time; procrastinate. [origin
unknown]
Day care n. Care of young children, the elderly, the handicapped, etc. During the
working day.
Day centre n. Place for care of the elderly or handicapped during the day.
Daylight n. 1 light of day. 2 dawn. 3 visible gap, e.g. Between boats in a race. 4
(usu. In pl.) Slang life or consciousness (scared the daylights out of me; beat the
living daylights out of them).
Day of reckoning n. Time when something must be atoned for or avenged.
Day return n. Reduced fare or ticket for a return journey in one day.
Daze —v. (-zing) stupefy, bewilder. —n. State of bewilderment. [old norse]
Dazzle —v. (-ling) 1 blind or confuse temporarily with a sudden bright light. 2
impress or overpower with knowledge, ability, etc. —n. Bright confusing light.
dazzling adj. Dazzlingly adv. [from *daze]
Db abbr. Decibel(s).
Dead end n. 1 closed end of road, passage, etc. 2 (often, with hyphen, attrib.)
Hopeless situation, job, etc.
Deadline n. Time-limit.
Deadly —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 causing or able to cause fatal injury or serious
damage. 2 intense, extreme (deadly dullness). 3 (of aim etc.) True; effective. 4
deathlike (deadly pale). 5 colloq. Dreary, dull. —adv. 1 like death; as if dead
(deadly faint). 2 extremely (deadly serious).
Dead man’s handle n. (also dead man’s pedal) device on an electric train
disconnecting the power supply if released.
Dead reckoning n. Calculation of a ship’s position from the log, compass, etc.,
when visibility is bad.
Dead set n. Determined attack. be dead set against strongly oppose. Be dead set
on be determined to do or get.
Dead weight n. (also dead-weight) 1 a inert mass. B heavy burden. 2 debt not
covered by assets. 3 total weight carried on a ship.
Deafen v. (often as deafening adj.) Overpower with noise or make deaf by noise,
esp. Temporarily. deafeningly adv.
Deal1 —v. (past and past part. Dealt) 1 (foll. By with) a take measures to
resolve, placate, etc. B do business with; associate with. C discuss or treat (a
subject). 2 (often foll. By by, with) behave in specified way (dealt honourably by
them). 3 (foll. By in) sell (deals in insurance). 4 (often foll. By out, round)
distribute to several people etc. 5 (also absol.) Distribute (cards) to players. 6
administer (was dealt a blow). 7 assign, esp. Providentially (were dealt much
happiness). —n. 1 (usu. A good or great deal) colloq. A large amount (good deal
of trouble). B considerably (great deal better). 2 colloq. Business arrangement;
transaction. 3 specified treatment (a rough deal). 4 a dealing of cards. B player’s
turn to do this. [old english]
Deal2 n. 1 fir or pine timber, esp. As boards of a standard size. 2 board of this.
[low german]
Usage in sense 3, this name has been merged with broker since oct. 1986 (see
broker 2, jobber 2).
Deathblow n. 1 blow etc. Causing death. 2 event etc. That destroys or ends
something.
Usage this term was replaced in 1975 by capital transfer tax and in 1986 by
inheritance tax.
Death-watch n. (in full death-watch beetle) small beetle which makes a ticking
sound, said to portend death.
Debar v. (-rr-) (foll. By from) exclude; prohibit (debarred from the club).
debarment n. [french: related to *bar1]
Debate —v. (-ting) 1 (also absol.) Discuss or dispute, esp. Formally. 2 consider
aspects of (a question); ponder. —n. 1 formal discussion on a particular matter. 2
discussion (open to debate). [french: related to *battle]
Debit —n. 1 entry in an account recording a sum owed. 2 sum recorded. 3 total
of such sums. 4 debit side of an account. —v. (-t-) 1 (foll. By against, to) enter
on the debit side of an account (debit £50 to my account). 2 (foll. By with)
charge (a person) with a debt (debited me with £500). [latin debitum *debt]
Debouch v. 1 (of troops or a stream) come out into open ground. 2 (often foll.
By into) (of a river, road, etc.) Merge into a larger body or area. debouchment n.
[french bouche mouth]
Debt n. 1 money etc. Owed (debt of gratitude). 2 state of owing (in debt; get into
debt). in a person’s debt under obligation to a person. [latin debeo debit-owe]
Debt of honour n. Debt not legally recoverable, esp. A sum lost in gambling.
Debut n. (brit. Début) first public appearance (as a performer etc.). [french]
Début n. (us debut) first public appearance (as a performer etc.). [french]
Debutante n. (brit. Débutante) (usu. Wealthy) young woman making her social
début.
Débutante n. (us debutante) (usu. Wealthy) young woman making her social
début.
Decade n. 1 period of ten years. 2 series or group of ten. [greek: related to *deca-
]
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people, even though it is much used in
broadcasting.
Decagon n. Plane figure with ten sides and angles. decagonal adj. [greek: related
to *deca-, -gonos -angled]
Decahedron n. Solid figure with ten faces. decahedral adj. [after *polyhedron]
Decanal adj. 1 of a dean. 2 of the south side of a choir (where the dean sits).
[latin: related to *dean1]
Decant v. 1 gradually pour off (esp. Wine), esp. Leaving the sediment behind. 2
transfer as if by pouring. [greek kanthos lip of jug]
Decapod n. 1 crustacean with ten limbs for walking, e.g. The shrimp. 2 ten-
tentacled mollusc, e.g. The squid. [greek: related to *deca-, pous pod-foot]
Decarbonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) remove the carbon etc. From (an
internal-combustion engine etc.). decarbonization n.
Decease formal esp. Law —n. Death. —v. (-sing) die. [latin cedo go]
Deceased formal —adj. Dead. —n. (usu. Prec. By the) person who has died, esp.
Recently.
Deceit n. 1 deception, esp. By concealing the truth. 2 dishonest trick. [latin capio
take]
December n. Twelfth month of the year. [latin decem ten, originally 10th month
of roman year]
Decennial adj. Lasting, recurring every, ten years. [latin decem ten, annus year]
Decentralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 transfer (power etc.) From central to
local authority. 2 reorganize to give greater local autonomy. decentralization n.
Decide v. (-ding) 1 (usu. Foll. By to, that, or on, about) resolve after
consideration (decided to stay; decided quickly; weather decided me; decided on
a blue hat). 2 resolve or settle (an issue etc.). 3 (usu. Foll. By between, for,
against, in favour of, or that) give a judgement. decidable adj. [latin caedo cut]
Deciduous adj. 1 (of a tree) shedding leaves annually. 2 (of leaves, horns, teeth,
etc.) Shed periodically. [latin cado fall]
Decimal —adj. 1 (of a system of numbers, weights, measures, etc.) Based on the
number ten. 2 of tenths or ten; reckoning or proceeding by tens. —n. Decimal
fraction. [latin decem ten]
Decimate v. (-ting) 1 destroy a large proportion of. 2 orig. Rom. Hist. Kill or
remove one in every ten of. decimation n.
Usage sense 1 is now the usual sense, but it is considered inappropriate by some
people. This word should not be used to mean ‘defeat utterly’.
Décolleté adj. (also décolletée) (of a dress, woman, etc.) Having or wearing a
low neckline.
Decompose v. (-sing) 1 rot. 2 separate (a substance, light, etc.) Into its elements.
decomposition n.
Décor n. Furnishing and decoration of a room, stage set, etc. [french: related to
*decorate]
Decorated style n. Archit. Highly ornamented late english gothic style (14th c.).
Decorator n. Person who decorates for a living.
Decoy —n. Person or thing used as a lure; bait, enticement. —v. Lure, esp.
Using a decoy. [dutch]
Decree —n. 1 official legal order. 2 legal judgement or decision, esp. In divorce
cases. —v. (-ees, -eed, -eeing) ordain by decree. [latin decretum from cerno sift]
Decree nisi n. Provisional order for divorce, made absolute after a fixed period.
[latin nisi unless]
Decrescendo adv., adj., & n. (pl. -s) = diminuendo. [italian: related to decrease]
Dedicate v. (-ting) (often foll. By to) 1 devote (esp. Oneself) to a special task or
purpose. 2 address (a book etc.) To a friend, patron, etc. 3 devote (a building
etc.) To a deity, saint, etc. 4 (as dedicated adj.) A (of a person) single-mindedly
loyal to an aim, vocation, etc. B (of equipment, esp.
Deduce v. (-cing) (often foll. By from) infer logically. deducible adj. [latin duco
duct-lead]
Deduct v. (often foll. By from) subtract, take away, or withhold (an amount,
portion, etc.). [related to *deduce]
Deductible adj. That may be deducted, esp. From tax or taxable income.
Deed poll n. Deed made by one party only, esp. To change one’s name.
Deep —adj. 1 extending far down or in (deep water; deep wound; deep shelf). 2
Deep —adj. 1 extending far down or in (deep water; deep wound; deep shelf). 2
(predic.) A to or at a specified depth (water 6 feet deep). B in a specified number
of ranks (soldiers drawn up six deep). 3 situated or coming from far down, back,
or in (deep in his pockets; deep sigh). 4 low-pitched, full-toned (deep voice). 5
intense, extreme (deep sleep; deep colour; deep interest). 6 (predic.) Fully
absorbed or overwhelmed (deep in a book; deep in debt). 7 profound; difficult to
understand (too deep for me). —n. 1 (prec. By the) poet. Sea, esp. When deep. 2
abyss, pit, cavity. 3 (prec. By the) cricket position of a fielder distant from the
batsman. 4 deep state (deep of the night). —adv. Deeply; far down or in (dig
deep). go off the deep end colloq. Give way to anger or emotion. In deep water
in trouble or difficulty. deeply adv. [old english]
Deep-freeze —n. Cabinet for freezing and keeping food for long periods. —v.
Freeze or store in a deep-freeze.
Deer n. (pl. Same) four-hoofed grazing animal, the male of which usu. Has
antlers. [old english]
Defame v. (-ming) libel; slander; speak ill of. defamation n. Defamatory adj.
[latin fama report]
Default —n. 1 failure to appear, pay, or act as one should. 2 preselected option
adopted by a computer program when no alternative is specified. —v. Fail to
adopted by a computer program when no alternative is specified. —v. Fail to
fulfil (esp. A legal) obligation. by default because of lack of an alternative or
opposition. In default of because of the absence of. defaulter n. [french: related
to *fail]
Defecate v. (-ting) evacuate the bowels. defecation n. [latin faex faecis dregs]
Defect —n. Fault, imperfection, shortcoming. —v. Leave one’s country or cause
for another. defection n. Defector n. [latin deficio -fect-fail]
Defend v. (also absol.) 1 (often foll. By against, from) resist an attack made on;
protect. 2 uphold by argument. 3 conduct a defence in a lawsuit. 4 compete to
retain (a title etc.) In a contest. defender n. [latin defendo -fens-]
Defer2 v. (-rr-) (foll. By to) yield or make concessions to. [latin defero carry
away]
Deficiency n. (pl. -ies) 1 being deficient. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) lack or shortage. 3
thing lacking. 4 deficit, esp. Financial.
Defile2 —n. Narrow gorge or pass. —v. (-ling) march in file. [french: related to
*file1]
Define v. (-ning) 1 give the meaning of (a word etc.). 2 describe or explain the
scope of (define one’s position). 3 outline clearly (well-defined image). 4 mark
out the boundary of. definable adj. [latin finis end]
Definite adj. 1 certain, sure. 2 clearly defined; not vague; precise. definitely adv.
[latin: related to *define]
Definitive adj. 1 (of an answer, verdict, etc.) Decisive, unconditional, final. 2 (of
a book etc.) Most authoritative.
Usage in sense 1, this word is often confused with definite, which does not imply
authority and conclusiveness. A definite no is a firm refusal, while a definitive
no is an authoritative judgement or decision that something is not the case.
Deflate v. (-ting) 1 empty (a tyre, balloon, etc.) Of air, gas, etc.; be so emptied. 2
(cause to) lose confidence or conceit. 3 a subject (a currency or economy) to
deflation. B pursue this as a policy. [from de-, inflate]
Deflect v. 1 bend or turn aside from a course or purpose. 2 (often foll. By from)
(cause to) deviate. deflection n. (also deflexion). Deflector n. [latin flecto bend]
Deft adj. Neat; dexterous; adroit. deftly adv. Deftness n. [var. Of *daft = ‘meek’]
Defuse v. (-sing) 1 remove the fuse from (a bomb etc.). 2 reduce tension etc. In
(a crisis, difficulty, etc.).
Defy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 resist openly; refuse to obey. 2 (of a thing) present
insuperable obstacles to (defies solution). 3 (foll. By to + infin.) Challenge (a
person) to do or prove something. [latin fides faith]
Degenerate —adj. 1 having lost its usual or good qualities; immoral, degraded. 2
biol. Having changed to a lower type. —n. Degenerate person or animal. —v. (-
ting) become degenerate. degeneracy n. [latin genus race]
Dehisce v. (-cing) (esp. Of a pod, cut, etc.) Gape or burst open. dehiscence n.
Dehiscent adj. [latin hio gape]
Dehumanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 take human qualities away from. 2
make impersonal. dehumanization n.
Dehydrate v. (-ting) 1 remove water from (esp. Foods). 2 make or become dry,
esp. Too dry. dehydration n. [greek hudor water]
De-ice v. 1 remove ice from. 2 prevent the formation of ice on. de-icer n.
Deify v. (-ies, -ied) make a god or idol of. deification n. [latin deus god]
Deign v. (foll. By to + infin.) Think fit, condescend. [latin dignus worthy]
Deism n. Reasoned belief in the existence of a god. deist n. Deistic adj. [latin
deus god]
Deity n. (pl. -ies) 1 god or goddess. 2 divine status or nature. 3 (the deity) god.
[french from church latin]
Deject v. (usu. As dejected adj.) Make sad; depress. dejectedly adv. Dejection n.
[latin jacio throw]
Delay —v. 1 postpone; defer. 2 make or be late; loiter. —n. 1 delaying or being
delayed. 2 time lost by this. 3 hindrance. [french]
Delayed-action attrib. Adj. (esp. Of a bomb, camera, etc.) Operating after a set
interval.
Delectable adj. Esp. Literary delightful, delicious. delectably adv. [latin: related
to *delight]
Delete v. (-ting) remove (a letter, word, etc.), esp. By striking out. deletion n.
[latin deleo]
Delft n. (also delftware) glazed, usu. Blue and white, earthenware. [delft in
holland]
Delicacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 being delicate (in all senses). 2 a choice food. [from
*delicate]
Delicate adj. 1 a fine in texture, quality, etc.; slender, slight. B (of a colour,
flavour, etc.) Subtle, hard to discern. 2 susceptible; weak, tender. 3 a requiring
tact; tricky (delicate situation). B (of an instrument) highly sensitive. 4 deft
(delicate touch). 5 modest. 6 (esp. Of actions) considerate. delicately adv. [latin]
Delicatessen n. 1 shop selling esp. Exotic cooked meats, cheeses, etc. 2 (often
attrib.) Such foods. [french: related to *delicate]
Delicious adj. Highly enjoyable, esp. To taste or smell. deliciously adv. [latin
deliciae delights]
Delight —v. 1 (often as delighted adj.) Please greatly (her singing delighted us;
delighted to help). 2 (foll. By in) take great pleasure in (delights in surprising
delighted to help). 2 (foll. By in) take great pleasure in (delights in surprising
everyone). —n. 1 great pleasure. 2 thing that delights. delighted adj. Delightful
adj. Delightfully adv. [latin delecto]
Delimit v. (-t-) fix the limits or boundary of. delimitation n. [latin: related to
*limit]
Delirious adj. 1 affected with delirium. 2 wildly excited, ecstatic. deliriously adv.
Delphinium n. (pl. -s) garden plant with tall spikes of usu. Blue flowers. [greek:
related to *dolphin]
Delta n. 1 triangular area of earth, alluvium etc. At the mouth of a river, formed
by its diverging outlets. 2 a fourth letter of the greek alphabet (d, d). B fourth-
class mark for work etc. [greek]
Delta wing n. Triangular swept-back wing of an aircraft.
Deluge —n. 1 great flood. 2 (the deluge) biblical flood (gen. 6-8). 3
overwhelming rush. 4 heavy fall of rain. —v. (-ging) flood or inundate (deluged
with complaints). [latin diluvium]
Delusion n. 1 false belief, hope, etc. 2 hallucination. delusive adj. Delusory adj.
[related to *delude]
Demagnetize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) remove the magnetic properties of.
demagnetization n.
Demand —n. 1 insistent and peremptory request. 2 desire for a commodity (no
demand for fur coats). 3 urgent claim (makes demands on her). —v. 1 (often foll.
By of, from, or to + infin., or that + clause) ask for insistently (demanded to
know). 2 require (task demanding skill). 3 insist on being told (demanded her
age). 4 (as demanding adj.) Requiring skill, effort, attention, etc. (demanding
job; demanding child). in demand sought after. On demand as soon as requested
(payable on demand). [french from latin: related to *mandate]
Demean v. (usu. Refl.) Lower the dignity of (would not demean myself). [from
*mean2]
Demilitarize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) remove an army etc. From (a frontier,
zone, etc.). demilitarization n.
Demonetize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) withdraw (a coin etc.) From use.
demonetization n. [french: related to de-, money]
Demoralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) destroy the morale of; dishearten.
demoralization n. [french]
Demur —v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By to, at) raise objections. 2 law put in a
demurrer. —n. (usu. In neg.) Objection; objecting (agreed without demur). [latin
moror delay]
Den n. 1 wild animal’s lair. 2 place of crime or vice (opium den). 3 small private
room. [old english]
Denarius n. (pl. Denarii) ancient roman silver coin. [latin deni by tens]
Denationalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) transfer (an industry etc.) From
public to private ownership. denationalization n.
Dengue n. Infectious tropical viral fever. [w. Indian spanish from swahili]
Denier n. Unit of weight measuring the fineness of silk, nylon, etc. [originally
the name of a small coin, from latin *denarius]
Denim n. 1 (often attrib.) Hard-wearing usu. Blue cotton twill used for jeans,
overalls, etc. 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Jeans etc. Made of this. [french de of, nîmes in
france]
Denominate v. (-ting) give a name to, call, describe as. [latin: related to
Denominate v. (-ting) give a name to, call, describe as. [latin: related to
*nominate]
Denominator n. Number below the line in a vulgar fraction; divisor. [latin nomen
name]
Denote v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By that) be a sign of; indicate; mean. 2 stand as a
name for; signify. denotation n. [latin: related to *note]
Dental adj. 1 of the teeth or dentistry. 2 (of a consonant) produced with the
tongue-tip against the upper front teeth (as th) or the ridge of the teeth (as n, s, t).
[latin dens dent-tooth]
Dentin n. (brit. Dentine) hard dense tissue forming the bulk of a tooth.
Dentine n. (us dentin) hard dense tissue forming the bulk of a tooth.
Deodorant n. (often attrib.) Substance applied to the body or sprayed into the air
to conceal smells. [related to *odour]
Deodorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) remove or destroy the smell of.
deodorization n.
deodorization n.
Depart v. 1 a (often foll. By from) go away; leave. B (usu. Foll. By for) start; set
out. 2 (usu. Foll. By from) deviate (departs from good taste). 3 esp. Formal or
literary leave by death; die (departed this life). [latin dispertio divide]
Departed —adj. Bygone. —n. (prec. By the) euphem. Dead person or people.
Depilatory —adj. Removing unwanted hair. —n. (pl. -ies) depilatory substance.
Deplore v. (-ring) 1 regret deeply. 2 find exceedingly bad. [latin ploro wail]
Deploy v. 1 spread out (troops) into a line ready for action. 2 use (arguments,
forces, etc.) Effectively. deployment n. [latin plico fold]
Deponent —adj. (of esp. A latin or greek verb) passive in form but active in
meaning. —n. 1 deponent verb. 2 person making deposition under oath. [latin
depono put down, lay aside]
Depose v. (-sing) 1 remove from office, esp. Dethrone. 2 law (usu. Foll. By to,
or that + clause) testify, esp. On oath. [french from latin: related to *deposit]
Deposit —n. 1 a money in a bank account. B anything stored for safe keeping. 2
a payment made as a pledge for a contract or as an initial part payment for a
thing bought. B returnable sum paid on the hire of an item. 3 a natural layer of
sand, rock, coal, etc. B layer of accumulated matter on a surface. —v. (-t-) 1 a
put or lay down (deposited the book on the shelf). B (of water etc.) Leave
(matter etc.) Lying. 2 a store or entrust for keeping. B pay (a sum of money) into
a bank account. 3 pay (a sum) as part of a larger sum or as a pledge for a
contract. [latin pono posit-put]
Deposit account n. Bank account that pays interest but is not usu. Immediately
accessible.
Depredation n. (usu. In pl.) Despoiling, ravaging. [latin: related to *prey]
Depress v. 1 make dispirited or sad. 2 push down; lower. 3 reduce the activity of
(esp. Trade). 4 (as depressed adj.) A miserable. B suffering from depression.
depressing adj. Depressingly adv. [latin: related to *press1]
Deprive v. (-ving) 1 (usu. Foll. By of) prevent from having or enjoying. 2 (as
deprived adj.) Lacking what is needed for well-being; underprivileged. deprival
n. [latin: related to *privation]
Depth n. 1 a deepness. B measurement from the top down, from the surface
inwards, or from front to back. 2 difficulty; abstruseness. 3 a wisdom. B
intensity of emotion etc. 4 intensity of colour, darkness, etc. 5 (usu. In pl.) A
deep water or place; abyss. B low, depressed state. C lowest, central, or inmost
part (depths of the country; depth of winter). in depth thoroughly. Out of one’s
depth 1 in water over one’s head. 2 engaged in a task etc. Too difficult for one.
[related to *deep]
Deputize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (usu. Foll. By for) act as deputy.
Deputy n. (pl. -ies) 1 person appointed to act for another (also attrib.: deputy
manager). 2 parliamentary representative in some countries. [var. Of *depute]
Derail v. (usu. In passive) cause (a train etc.) To leave the rails. derailment n.
[french: related to *rail1]
Derby n. (pl. -ies) 1 a annual flat horse-race at epsom. B similar race elsewhere.
2 important sporting contest. 3 (derby) us bowler hat. [earl of derby]
Derecognize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) cease to recognize the status of (esp. A
trade union). derecognition n.
Derisive adj. = derisory. derisively adv. [from deride]
Derivative —adj. Derived; not original (his music is derivative). —n. 1 derived
word or thing. 2 math. Quantity measuring the rate of change of another.
Derive v. (-ving) 1 (usu. Foll. By from) get or trace from a source (derived
satisfaction from work). 2 (foll. By from) arise from, originate in (happiness
derives from many things). 3 (usu. Foll. By from) show or state the origin or
formation of (a word etc.). [latin rivus stream]
Dermis n. 1 (in general use) the skin. 2 layer of living tissue below the
epidermis. [from *epidermis]
Derogate v. (-ting) (foll. By from) formal detract from (merit, right, etc.).
derogation n. [latin rogo ask]
Derrick n. 1 crane for heavy weights, with a movable pivoted arm. 2 framework
over an oil well etc., holding the drilling machinery. [derrick, name of a
hangman]
Derris n. 1 tropical climbing plant. 2 insecticide made from its root. [latin from
greek]
Desalinate v. (-ting) remove the salt from (esp. Sea water). desalination n. [from
*saline]
Descant —n. 1 harmonizing treble melody above the basic melody, esp. Of a
hymn tune. 2 poet. Melody; song. —v. (foll. By on, upon) talk prosily, esp. In
praise of. [latin cantus song: related to *chant]
Descry v. (-ies, -ied) literary catch sight of; discern. [french: related to *cry]
Descry v. (-ies, -ied) literary catch sight of; discern. [french: related to *cry]
Desecrate v. (-ting) violate (a sacred place etc.) With violence, profanity, etc.
desecration n. Desecrator n. [from de-, consecrate]
Desensitize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) reduce or destroy the sensitivity of.
desensitization n.
Desert2 —n. Dry barren, esp. Sandy, tract. —adj. Uninhabited, desolate, barren.
[latin desertus: related to *desert1]
Desert2 —n. Dry barren, esp. Sandy, tract. —adj. Uninhabited, desolate, barren.
[latin desertus: related to *desert1]
Desert3 n. 1 (in pl.) Deserved reward or punishment (got his deserts). 2 being
worthy of reward or punishment. [french: related to *deserve]
Desert boot n. Suede etc. Ankle-high boot.
Deserving adj. (often foll. By of) worthy (esp. Of help, praise, etc.).
Desk n. 1 piece of furniture with a surface for writing on, and often drawers. 2
counter in a hotel, bank, etc. 3 specialized section of a newspaper office (sports
desk). 4 unit of two orchestral players sharing a stand. [latin: related to *discus]
Despair —n. 1 complete loss or absence of hope. 2 cause of this. —v. (often foll.
By of) lose or be without hope (despaired of ever winning). [latin spero hope]
Desperado n. (pl. -es or us -s) desperate or reckless criminal etc. [as *desperate]
Despicable adj. Vile; contemptible, esp. Morally. despicably adv. [latin specio
spect-look at]
Dessert n. 1 sweet course of a meal. 2 fruit, nuts, etc., served at the end of a
meal. [french: related to dis-, serve]
Destitute adj. 1 without food, shelter, etc. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) lacking (destitute
of friends). destitution n. [latin]
Destroyer n. 1 person or thing that destroys. 2 fast armed warship escorting other
ships.
Destruct us esp. Astronaut. —v. Destroy (one’s own rocket etc.) Or be destroyed
deliberately, esp. For safety. —n. Destructing.
Detail —n. 1 small particular; item. 2 a these collectively (eye for detail). B
treatment of them (detail was unconvincing). 3 a minor decoration on a building
etc. B small part of a picture etc. Shown alone. 4 small military detachment. —v.
1 give particulars of. 2 relate circumstantially. 3 assign for special duty. 4 (as
detailed adj.) A (of a picture, story, etc.) Containing many details. B itemized
(detailed list). in detail item by item, minutely. [french: related to *tail2]
Detain v. 1 keep waiting; delay. 2 keep in custody, lock up. detainment n. [latin
teneo hold]
Detective n. Person, esp. A police officer, investigating crimes.
Deter v. (-rr-) (often foll. By from) discourage or prevent, esp. Through fear.
determent n. [latin terreo frighten]
Detergent —n. Synthetic cleansing agent used with water. —adj. Cleansing.
[latin tergeo wipe]
Detest v. Hate violently, loathe. detestation n. [latin detestor from testis witness]
Detonate v. (-ting) set off (an explosive charge); be set off. detonation n. [latin
tono thunder]
Detract v. (foll. By from) take away (a part); diminish; make seem less valuable
or important. [latin traho tract-draw]
Deuterium n. Stable isotope of hydrogen with a mass about double that of the
usual isotope. [greek deuteros second]
Devalue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 reduce the value of. 2 reduce the value of (a
currency) in relation to others or to gold. devaluation n.
Devastate v. (-ting) 1 lay waste; cause great destruction to. 2 (often in passive)
overwhelm with shock or grief. devastation n. [latin vasto lay waste]
Develop v. (-p-) 1 a make or become bigger, fuller, more elaborate, etc. B bring
or come to an active, visible, or mature state. 2 begin to exhibit or suffer from
(developed a rattle). 3 a build on (land). B convert (land) to new use. 4 treat
(photographic film etc.) To make the image visible. developer n. [french]
Development area n. Area where new industries are encouraged by the state.
Deviant —adj. Deviating from what is normal, esp. Sexually. —n. Deviant
person or thing. deviance n. Deviancy n.
Deviate v. (-ting) (often foll. By from) turn aside or diverge (from a course of
action, rule, etc.). deviation n. [latin via way]
Device n. 1 thing made or adapted for a special purpose. 2 plan, scheme, or trick.
3 design, esp. Heraldic. leave a person to his or her own devices leave a person
to do as he or she wishes. [french: related to *devise]
Devil —n. 1 (usu. The devil) (in christian and jewish belief) supreme spirit of
evil; satan. 2 a evil spirit; demon. B personified evil. 3 a wicked person. B
mischievously clever person. 4 colloq. Person of a specified kind (lucky devil). 5
fighting spirit, mischievousness (devil is in him tonight). 6 colloq. Awkward
thing. 7 (the devil or the devil) colloq. Used as an exclamation of surprise or
annoyance (who the devil are you?). 8 literary hack. 9 junior legal counsel. —v.
(-ll-; us -l-) 1 cook (food) with hot seasoning. 2 act as devil for an author or
barrister. 3 us harass, worry. between the devil and the deep blue sea in a
dilemma. A devil of colloq. Considerable, difficult, or remarkable. Devil’s own
colloq. Very difficult or unusual (the devil’s own job). The devil to pay trouble
colloq. Very difficult or unusual (the devil’s own job). The devil to pay trouble
to be expected. Speak (or talk) of the devil said when person appears just after
being mentioned. [greek diabolos accuser, slanderer]
Devise v. (-sing) 1 carefully plan or invent. 2 law leave (real estate) by will.
[latin: related to *divide]
Devoid predic. Adj. (foll. By of) lacking or free from. [french: related to *void]
Devolve v. (-ving) 1 (foll. By on, upon, etc.) Pass (work or duties) or be passed
to (a deputy etc.). 2 (foll. By on, to, upon) (of property etc.) Descend to.
devolvement n. [latin volvo volut-roll]
Devonian —adj. Of the fourth period of the palaeozoic era. —n. This period.
[devon in england]
Devote v. (-ting) (often refl.; foll. By to) apply or give over to (a particular
activity etc.). [latin voveo vot-vow]
Devotion n. 1 (usu. Foll. By to) great love or loyalty. 2 a religious worship. B (in
pl.) Prayers. devotional adj. [latin: related to *devote]
Devour v. 1 eat voraciously. 2 (of fire etc.) Engulf, destroy. 3 take in eagerly
(devoured the play). 4 preoccupy (devoured by fear). [latin voro swallow]
Dewlap n. Loose fold of skin hanging from the throat of cattle, dogs, etc. [from
*dew, *lap1]
Dexter adj. Esp. Heraldry on or of the right-hand side (observer’s left) of a shield
etc. [latin, = on the right]
Dhal n. (also dal) 1 a kind of split pulse common in india. 2 dish made with this.
[hindi]
Dharma n. Ind. 1 social custom; correct behaviour. 2 the buddhist truth. 3 the
hindu moral law. [sanskrit, = decree, custom]
Di-2 prefix = *dis-.
Diabetes n. Disease in which sugar and starch are not properly absorbed by the
body. [latin from greek]
Diaconal adj. Of a deacon. [church latin: related to *deacon]
Diaeresis n. (pl. Diaereses) (us dieresis) mark (as in naïve) over a vowel to
indicate that it is sounded separately. [greek, = separation]
Dial —n. 1 plate with a scale for measuring weight, volume, etc., indicated by a
pointer. 2 movable numbered disc on a telephone for making connection. 3 face
of a clock or watch, marking the hours etc. 4 a plate or disc etc. On a radio or
television for selecting a wavelength or channel. B similar device on other
equipment. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 (also absol.) Select (a telephone number) with a
dial. 2 measure, indicate, or regulate with a dial. [medieval latin diale from dies
day]
Dialectical materialism n. Marxist theory that political and historical events are
due to the conflict of social forces arising from economic conditions.
Diameter n. 1 straight line passing through the centre of a circle or sphere to its
edges; length of this. 2 transverse measurement; width, thickness. 3 unit of linear
magnifying power. [greek: related to *-meter]
Diametrical adj. (also diametric) 1 of or along a diameter. 2 (of opposites etc.)
Absolute. diametrically adv. [greek: related to *diameter]
Diaphanous adj. (of fabric etc.) Light, delicate, and almost transparent. [greek
phaino show]
Diapositive n. Positive photographic slide or transparency.
Diary n. (pl. -ies) 1 daily record of events or thoughts. 2 book for this or for
noting future engagements. [latin dies day]
Diaspora n. 1 the dispersion of the jews after their exile in 538 bc. 2 the
dispersed jews. [greek]
Diatom n. One-cell alga found as plankton and forming fossil deposits. [greek, =
cut in half]
Diatonic adj. Mus. (of a scale, interval, etc.) Involving only notes belonging to
the prevailing key. [greek: related to *tonic]
Dibble —n. (also dibber) hand tool for making holes for planting. —v. (-ling)
sow, plant, or prepare (soil) with a dibble. [origin uncertain]
Dice —n.pl. 1 a small cubes with faces bearing 1–6 spots, used in games or
gambling. B (treated as sing.) One of these cubes (see die2). 2 game played with
dice. —v. (-cing) 1 take great risks, gamble (dicing with death). 2 cut into small
cubes. [pl. Of die2]
Dichotomy n. (pl. -ies) division into two, esp. A sharply defined one. [greek
dikho-apart: related to *tome]
Dick1 n. 1 colloq. (in certain set phrases) person (clever dick). 2 coarse slang
penis. [dick, pet form of richard]
Dickens n. (usu. Prec. By how, what, why, etc., the) colloq. (esp. In
exclamations) deuce; the devil (what the dickens is it). [probably the name
dickens]
Dicky —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. False shirt-front. —adj. (-ier, -iest) slang unsound;
unhealthy. [dicky, pet form of richard]
Dicky-bird n. 1 child’s word for a little bird. 2 word (didn’t say a dicky-bird).
Dictaphone n. Propr. Machine for recording and playing back dictated words.
[from dictate, phone]
Dictionary n. (pl. -ies) 1 book listing (usu. Alphabetically) and explaining the
words of a language or giving corresponding words in another language. 2
reference book explaining the terms of a particular subject. [medieval latin:
related to *diction]
Diddums int. Often iron. Expressing commiseration. [= did ‘em, i.e. Did they
(tease you etc.)?]
Diddums int. Often iron. Expressing commiseration. [= did ‘em, i.e. Did they
(tease you etc.)?]
Die1 v. (dies, died, dying) 1 cease to live; expire, lose vital force. 2 a come to an
end, fade away (his interest died). B cease to function. C (of a flame) go out. 3
(foll. By on) die or cease to function while in the presence or charge of (a
person). 4 (usu. Foll. By of, from, with) be exhausted or tormented (nearly died
of boredom). be dying (foll. By for, or to + infin.) Wish for longingly or intently
(was dying for a drink). Die away fade to the point of extinction. Die back (of a
plant) decay from the tip towards the root. Die down become fainter or weaker.
plant) decay from the tip towards the root. Die down become fainter or weaker.
Die hard die reluctantly (old habits die hard). Die off die one after another. Die
out become extinct, cease to exist. [old norse]
Die2 n. 1 = *dice 1b. 2 (pl. Dies) a engraved device for stamping coins, medals,
etc. B device for stamping, cutting, or moulding material. the die is cast an
irrevocable step has been taken. [latin datum from do give]
Usage dice, rather than die, is now the standard singular as well as plural form in
the games sense (one dice, two dice).
Dieresis n. (pl. Diereses) (brit. Diaeresis) mark (as in naïve) over a vowel to
indicate that it is sounded separately. [greek, = separation]
Dietetics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) The study of diet and nutrition.
Dif-prefix = *dis-.
Different adj. 1 (often foll. By from or to) unlike, of another nature. 2 distinct,
separate. 3 unusual. differently adv.
Usage in sense 1, different from is more widely acceptable than different to,
which is common in less formal use.
Differentiate v. (-ting) 1 constitute a difference between or in. 2 recognize as
different; distinguish. 3 become different during development. 4 math. Calculate
the derivative of. differentiation n.
Diffract v. Break up (a beam of light) into a series of dark and light bands or
coloured spectra, or (a beam of radiation or particles) into a series of high and
low intensities. diffraction n. Diffractive adj. [latin diffringo: related to *fraction]
Diffuse —adj. 1 spread out, not concentrated. 2 not concise, wordy. —v. (-sing)
1 disperse or spread widely. 2 intermingle by diffusion. diffusible adj. Diffusive
adj. [latin: related to *found3]
Dig —v. (-gg-; past and past part. Dug) 1 (also absol.) Break up and remove or
turn over (ground etc.). 2 (foll. By up) break up the soil of (fallow land). 3 make
turn over (ground etc.). 2 (foll. By up) break up the soil of (fallow land). 3 make
(a hole, tunnel, etc.) By digging. 4 (often foll. By up, out) a obtain by digging. B
(foll. By up, out) find or discover. C (foll. By into) search for information in (a
book etc.). 5 (also absol.) Excavate (an archaeological site). 6 slang like;
understand. 7 (foll. By in, into) thrust (a sharp object); prod or nudge. 8 (foll. By
into, through, under) make one’s way by digging. —n. 1 piece of digging. 2
thrust or poke. 3 colloq. Pointed remark. 4 archaeological excavation. 5 (in pl.)
Colloq. Lodgings. dig one’s heels in be obstinate. Dig in colloq. Begin eating.
Dig oneself in 1 prepare a defensive trench or pit. 2 establish one’s position. [old
english]
Digest —v. 1 assimilate (food) in the stomach and bowels. 2 understand and
assimilate mentally. 3 summarize. —n. 1 periodical synopsis of current literature
or news. 2 methodical summary, esp. Of laws. digestible adj. [latin digero -gest-]
Digital adj. 1 of digits. 2 (of a clock, watch, etc.) Giving a reading by displayed
digits. 3 (of a computer) operating on data represented by a series of digits. 4 (of
a recording) with sound-information represented by digits for more reliable
transmission. digitally adv. [latin: related to *digit]
Digitalis n. Drug prepared from foxgloves, used to stimulate the heart. [related to
*digit, from the form of the flowers]
Digitize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) convert (data etc.) Into digital form, esp.
For a computer. digitization n.
Dignify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 confer dignity on; ennoble. 2 give a fine name to. [latin
dignus worthy]
Digraph n. Two letters representing one sound, e.g. Ph, ey as in phone, key.
[from di-1, -graph]
Usage digraph is sometimes confused with ligature, which means two or more
letters joined together.
Digress v. Depart from the main subject in speech or writing. digression n. [latin
digredior -gress-]
Dilatation n. 1 dilating of the cervix, e.g. For surgical curettage. 2 dilation. [from
*dilate]
Dildo n. (pl. -s) artificial erect penis for sexual stimulation. [origin unknown]
Dilute —v. (-ting) 1 reduce the strength of (a fluid) by adding water etc. 2
weaken or reduce in effect. —adj. Diluted. dilution n. [latin diluo -lut-wash
away]
Diluvial adj. Of a flood, esp. Of the flood in genesis. [latin: related to *deluge]
Dimension —n. 1 measurable extent, as length, breadth, depth, etc. 2 (in pl.)
Size (of huge dimensions). 3 aspect, facet (gained a new dimension). —v. (usu.
As dimensioned adj.) Mark dimensions on (a diagram etc.). dimensional adj.
[latin metior mens-measure]
Diminuendo mus. —n. (pl -s) gradual decrease in loudness. —adv. & adj.
Decreasing in loudness. [italian: related to *diminish]
Dimmer n. 1 (in full dimmer switch) device for varying the brightness of an
electric light. 2 us a (in pl.) Small parking lights on a vehicle. B headlight on low
electric light. 2 us a (in pl.) Small parking lights on a vehicle. B headlight on low
beam.
Dimple —n. Small hollow, esp. In the cheek or chin. —v. (-ling) form dimples
(in). dimply adj. [probably old english]
Din —n. Prolonged loud confused noise. —v. (-nn-) (foll. By into) force
(information) into a person by constant repetition; make a din. [old english]
Dinar n. Chief monetary unit of yugoslavia and several countries of the middle
east and n. Africa. [arabic and persian from latin *denarius]
Dine v. (-ning) 1 a eat dinner. B (foll. By on, upon) eat for dinner. 2 (esp. In phr.
Wine and dine) entertain with food. dine out dine away from home. [french diner
as *dis-, latin jejunus fasting]
Dingbat n. Slang us & austral. Stupid or eccentric person. [perhaps from ding to
beat + *bat1]
Dinghy n. (pl. -ies) 1 small boat carried by a ship. 2 small pleasure-boat. 3 small
inflatable rubber boat. [hindi]
Dingy adj. (-ier, -iest) dirty-looking, drab. dingily adv. Dinginess n. [origin
uncertain]
Dinkum adj. Austral. & nz colloq. Genuine, honest, true. dinkum oil the honest
truth. Fair dinkum 1 fair play. 2 genuine(ly), honest(ly), true, truly. [origin
unknown]
Dinky adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Neat and attractive; small, dainty. [scots dink]
Dinner n. 1 main meal of the day, either at midday or in the evening. 2 (in full
dinner-party) formal evening meal, esp. With guests. [french: related to *dine]
Dinner-jacket n. Man’s short usu. Black formal jacket for evening wear.
Dint —n. Dent. —v. Mark with dints. by dint of by force or means of. [old
english and old norse]
Diocese n. District under the pastoral care of a bishop. diocesan adj. [greek
Diocese n. District under the pastoral care of a bishop. diocesan adj. [greek
dioikesis administration]
Diode n. 1 semiconductor allowing the flow of current in one direction only and
having two terminals. 2 thermionic valve having two electrodes. [from di-1,
electrode]
Dioptre n. (us diopter) unit of refractive power of a lens. [greek: related to *dia-,
opsis sight]
Diorama n. 1 scenic painting lit to simulate sunrise etc. 2 small scene with three-
dimensional figures, viewed through a window etc. 3 small-scale model or film-
set. [from *dia-, greek horao see]
Dip —v. (-pp-) 1 put or lower briefly into liquid etc.; immerse. 2 a go below a
surface or level. B (of income, activity, etc.) Decline slightly, esp. Briefly. 3
slope or extend downwards (road dips). 4 go under water and emerge quickly. 5
(foll. By into) look cursorily into (a book, subject, etc.). 6 a (foll. By into) put a
hand, ladle, etc., into (a container) to take something out. B use part of (one’s
resources) (dipped into our savings). 7 lower or be lowered, esp. In salute. 8
lower the beam of (headlights) to reduce dazzle. 9 colour (a fabric) by
lower the beam of (headlights) to reduce dazzle. 9 colour (a fabric) by
immersing it in dye. 10 wash (sheep) in disinfectant. —n. 1 dipping or being
dipped. 2 liquid for dipping.
Diplodocus n. (pl. -cuses) giant plant-eating dinosaur with a long neck and tail.
[greek diplous double, dokos wooden beam]
Diplomatist n. Diplomat.
Dipsomania n. Alcoholism. dipsomaniac n. [greek dipsa thirst]
Dipstick n. Rod for measuring the depth of esp. Oil in a vehicle’s engine.
Dipterous adj. (of an insect) having two wings. [greek pteron wing]
Direct debit n. Regular debiting of a bank account at the request of the payee.
Direct debit n. Regular debiting of a bank account at the request of the payee.
Direct tax n. Tax that one pays directly to the government, esp. On income.
Dirge n. 1 lament for the dead. 2 any dreary piece of music. [latin imperative
dirige = direct, used in the office for the dead]
Dirham n. Principal monetary unit of morocco and the united arab emirates.
[arabic]
Dirndl n. 1 dress with a close-fitting bodice and full skirt. 2 full skirt of this kind.
[german]
Dirt n. 1 unclean matter that soils. 2 a earth, soil. B earth, cinders, etc., used to
make the surface for a road etc. (usu. Attrib.: dirt track). 3 foul or malicious
words or talk. 4 excrement. treat like dirt treat with contempt. [old norse drit
excrement]
Dirty —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 soiled, unclean. 2 causing dirtiness (dirty job). 3
sordid, lewd, obscene. 4 unpleasant, dishonourable, unfair (dirty trick). 5 (of
weather) rough, squally. 6 (of colour) muddied, dingy. —adv. Slang 1 very (a
dirty great diamond). 2 in a dirty manner (talk dirty; act dirty) (esp. In senses 3
and 4 of adj.). —v. (-ies, -ied) make or become dirty. do the dirty on colloq. Play
a mean trick on. dirtily adv. Dirtiness n.
Disabuse v. (-sing) (usu. Foll. By of) free from a mistaken idea; disillusion.
Disaffected adj. Discontented (esp. Politically); no longer loyal. disaffection n.
Disagree v. (-ees, -eed, -eeing) (often foll. By with) 1 hold a different opinion. 2
(of factors) not correspond. 3 upset (onions disagree with me). disagreement n.
Disappoint v. 1 fail to fulfil the desire or expectation of. 2 frustrate (a hope etc.).
disappointed adj. Disappointing adj.
Disarm v. 1 take weapons etc. Away from. 2 reduce or give up one’s own
weapons. 3 defuse (a bomb etc.). 4 make less angry, hostile, etc; charm, win
over. disarming adj. (esp. In sense 4). Disarmingly adv.
Disc n. (also disk esp. Us and in sense 4a) 1 a flat thin circular object. B round
flat or apparently flat surface or mark. 2 layer of cartilage between vertebrae. 3
gramophone record. 4 a (usu. Disk; in full magnetic disk) flat circular computer
storage device. B (in full optical disc) disc for data recorded and read by laser.
[latin *discus]
Discern v. 1 perceive clearly with the mind or senses. 2 make out with effort.
discernible adj. [latin cerno cret-separate]
Disciple n. Follower of a leader, teacher, etc., esp. Of christ. [latin disco learn]
Discipline —n. 1 a control or order exercised over people or animals, e.g. Over
members of an organization. B system of rules for this. 2 training or way of life
aimed at self-control and conformity. 3 branch of learning. 4 punishment. —v. (-
ning) 1 punish. 2 control by training in obedience. [latin disciplina from disco
learn]
Disco colloq. —n. (pl. -s) = *discothèque. —v. (-es, -ed) dance to disco music.
[abbreviation]
Discolor v. (brit. Discolour) cause to change from its normal colour; stain;
Discolor v. (brit. Discolour) cause to change from its normal colour; stain;
tarnish. discoloration n.
Discolour v. (us discolor) cause to change from its normal colour; stain; tarnish.
discoloration n.
Discomfort —n. 1 lack of comfort; slight pain or unease. 2 cause of this. —v.
Make uncomfortable.
Disconnect v. 1 break the connection of. 2 put out of action by disconnecting the
parts. disconnection n.
parts. disconnection n.
Discount —n. Amount deducted from a full or normal price, esp. For prompt or
advance payment. —v. 1 disregard as unreliable or unimportant. 2 deduct an
amount from (a price etc.). 3 give or get the present worth of (an investment
certificate which has yet to mature). at a discount below the usual price or true
value.
Discursive adj. Tending to digress, rambling. [latin curro curs-run]
Discus n. (pl. -cuses) heavy thick-centred disc thrown in athletic events. [latin
from greek]
Disdain —n. Scorn, contempt. —v. 1 regard with disdain. 2 refrain or refuse out
of disdain. disdainful adj. Disdainfully adv. [latin: related to de-, deign]
Disembarrass v. 1 (usu. Foll. By of) relieve (of a load etc.). 2 free from
embarrassment. disembarrassment n.
Disembodied adj. 1 (of the soul etc.) Freed from the body or concrete form. 2
lacking a body. disembodiment n.
Disenchant v. Disillusion. disenchantment n.
Disengage —v. (-ging) 1 detach, loosen, release. 2 remove (troops) from battle
etc. 3 become detached. 4 (as disengaged adj.) A at leisure. B uncommitted.
disengagement n.
Disgrace —n. 1 shame; ignominy. 2 shameful or very bad person or thing (bus
service is a disgrace). —v. (-cing) 1 bring shame or discredit on. 2 dismiss from
a position of honour or favour. in disgrace out of favour. [latin: related to dis-,
grace]
Disguise —v. (-sing) 1 conceal the identity of; make unrecognizable. 2 conceal
(disguised my anger). —n. 1 a costume, make-up, etc., used to disguise. B
action, manner, etc., used to deceive. 2 disguised state. 3 practice of disguising.
[french: related to *dis-]
Disgust —n. Strong aversion; repugnance. —v. Cause disgust in. disgusting adj.
Disgustingly adv. [french or italian: related to dis-, gusto]
Disinfectant —n. Substance that destroys germs etc. —adj. Disinfecting.
Disjoint v. 1 take apart at the joints. 2 (as disjointed adj.) Incoherent;
disconnected. 3 disturb the working of; disrupt.
Disjunction n. Separation.
Disk drive n. Computing mechanism for rotating a disk and reading or writing
data from or to it.
Dislike —v. (-king) have an aversion to; not like. —n. 1 feeling of repugnance
or not liking. 2 object of this.
Dislocate v. (-ting) 1 disturb the normal connection of (esp. A joint in the body).
2 disrupt. dislocation n.
Dismay —n. Intense disappointment or despair. —v. Fill with dismay. [french
from germanic: related to dis-, may]
Dismiss v. 1 send away, esp. From one’s presence; disperse. 2 terminate the
employment of, esp. Dishonourably; sack. 3 put from one’s mind or emotions. 4
consider not worth talking or thinking about; treat summarily. 5 law refuse
further hearing to (a case). 6 cricket put (a batsman or side) out (usu. For a stated
score). dismissal n. [latin mitto miss-send]
Disorient v. = *disorientate.
Disparate adj. Essentially different; not comparable. disparateness n. [latin
disparo separate]
Dispel v. (-ll-) drive away; scatter (fears etc.). [latin pello drive]
Dispensation n. 1 dispensing or distributing. 2 exemption from penalty, rule, etc.
3 ordering or management of the world by providence.
Dispense v. (-sing) 1 distribute; deal out. 2 administer. 3 make up and give out
(medicine etc.). 4 (foll. By with) do without; make unnecessary. [french from
latin pendo pens-weigh]
Displace v. (-cing) 1 move from its place. 2 remove from office. 3 take the place
of; oust.
Disport v. (often refl.) Play, frolic, enjoy oneself. [anglo-french porter carry,
from latin]
Usage disposal is the noun corresponding to the verb dispose of (get rid of, deal
with, etc.). Disposition is the noun from dispose (arrange, incline).
Dispose v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By to, or to + infin.) A make willing; incline (was
disposed to agree). B tend (wheel was disposed to buckle). 2 arrange suitably. 3
(as disposed adj.) Have a specified inclination (ill-disposed; well-disposed). 4
determine events (man proposes, god disposes). dispose of 1 a deal with. B get
rid of. C finish. D kill. 2 sell. 3 prove (an argument etc.) Incorrect. [french:
related to *pose]
Disproof n. Refutation.
Disputation n. 1 debate, esp. Formal. 2 argument; controversy.
Dispute —v. (-ting) 1 debate, argue. 2 discuss, esp. Heatedly; quarrel. 3 question
the truth or validity of (a statement etc.). 4 contend for (disputed territory). 5
resist, oppose. —n. 1 controversy; debate. 2 quarrel. 3 disagreement leading to
industrial action. in dispute 1 being argued about. 2 (of a workforce) involved in
industrial action. [latin puto reckon]
Disquietude n. Disquiet.
Disreputable adj. 1 of bad reputation. 2 not respectable in character or
appearance. disreputably adv.
Disrupt v. 1 interrupt the continuity of; bring disorder to. 2 break apart.
disruption n. Disruptive adj. Disruptively adv. [latin: related to *rupture]
Dissect v. 1 cut into pieces, esp. For examination or post mortem. 2 analyse or
criticize in detail. dissection n. [latin: related to *section]
Dissent —v. (often foll. By from) 1 disagree, esp. Openly. 2 differ, esp. From
the established or official opinion. —n. 1 such difference. 2 expression of this.
[latin: related to *dis-, sentio feel]
Dissentient —adj. Disagreeing with the established or official view. —n. Person
who dissents.
Dissident —adj. Disagreeing, esp. With the established government, system, etc.
—n. Dissident person. dissidence n. [latin: related to *dis-, sedeo sit]
Distaff n. Cleft stick holding wool or flax for spinning by hand. [old english]
Distance —n. 1 being far off; remoteness. 2 space between two points. 3 distant
point or place. 4 aloofness; reserve. 5 remoter field of vision (in the distance). 6
interval of time. —v. (-cing) (often refl.) 1 place or cause to seem far off; be
aloof. 2 leave far behind in a race etc. at a distance far off. Keep one’s distance
remain aloof. [latin: related to *dis-, sto stand]
Distant adj. 1 far away; at a specified distance (three miles distant). 2 remote in
time, relationship, etc. (distant prospect; distant relation). 3 aloof. 4 abstracted
(distant stare). 5 faint (distant memory). distantly adv.
Distaste n. (usu. Foll. By for) dislike; aversion. distasteful adj. Distastefully adv.
Distastefulness n.
Distemper1 hist —n. Paint using glue or size as a base, for use on walls. —v.
Paint with this. [latin, = soak: see *distemper2]
Distemper2 n. Disease of esp. Dogs, with coughing and weakness. [latin: related
to *dis-, tempero mingle]
Distil v. (us distill) (-ll-) 1 purify or extract the essence from (a substance) by
vaporizing and condensing it and collecting the resulting liquid. 2 extract the
essential meaning of (an idea etc.). 3 make (whisky, essence, etc.) By distilling
raw materials. 4 fall or cause to fall in drops. distillation n. [latin: related to *de-,
stillo drip]
Distill v. (brit. Distil) (-ll-) 1 purify or extract the essence from (a substance) by
vaporizing and condensing it and collecting the resulting liquid. 2 extract the
essential meaning of (an idea etc.). 3 make (whisky, essence, etc.) By distilling
raw materials. 4 fall or cause to fall in drops. distillation n. [latin: related to *de-,
stillo drip]
Distinct adj. 1 (often foll. By from) not identical; separate; different. 2 clearly
perceptible. 3 unmistakable, decided (distinct advantage). distinctly adv. [latin:
related to *distinguish]
Distract v. 1 (often foll. By from) draw away the attention of. 2 bewilder,
perplex. 3 (as distracted adj.) Confused, mad, or angry. 4 amuse, esp. To divert
from pain etc. [latin: related to *dis-, traho tract-draw]
Distrain v. (usu. Foll. By upon) impose distraint (on a person, goods, etc.). [latin:
related to *dis-, stringo strict-draw tight]
Distraught adj. Distracted with worry, fear, etc.; extremely agitated. [related to
*distrait]
Distribute v. (-ting) 1 give shares of; deal out. 2 scatter; put at different points. 3
arrange; classify. [latin tribuo -but-assign]
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the first syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
considered incorrect by some people.
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the first syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Distrust —n. Lack of trust; suspicion. —v. Have no trust in. distrustful adj.
Distrustfully adv.
Disturb v. 1 break the rest, calm, or quiet of. 2 agitate; worry. 3 move from a
settled position (disturbed my papers). 4 (as disturbed adj.) Emotionally or
mentally unstable. [latin: related to *dis-, turba tumult]
Ditch —n. Long narrow excavation esp. For drainage or as a boundary. —v. 1
make or repair ditches (hedging and ditching). 2 slang abandon; discard. dull as
ditch-water extremely dull. [old english]
Ditto n. (pl. -s) 1 (in accounts, inventories, etc.) The aforesaid, the same. 2
colloq. (used to avoid repetition) the same (came late today and ditto yesterday).
[latin *dictum]
Usage in sense 1, the word ditto is often replaced by ” under the word or sum to
be repeated.
Diuretic —adj. Causing increased output of urine. —n. Diuretic drug. [greek:
related to *dia-, oureo urinate]
Diurnal adj. 1 of the day or daytime. 2 daily. 3 occupying one day. diurnally adv.
[latin diurnalis from dies day]
Diva n. (pl. -s) great woman opera singer; prima donna. [italian from latin, =
goddess]
Divan n. Low couch or bed without a back or ends. [ultimately from persian
divan bench]
Dive —v. (-ving) 1 plunge head first into water. 2 a (of an aircraft, person, etc.)
Plunge steeply downwards. B (of a submarine) submerge; go deeper. 3 (foll. By
into) colloq. A put one’s hand into (a pocket, handbag, etc.). B become
enthusiastic about (a subject, meal, etc.). 4 move suddenly (dived into a shop).
—n. 1 act of diving; plunge. 2 steep descent or fall. 3 colloq. Disreputable
nightclub, bar, etc. [old english]
Diver n. 1 person who dives, esp. Working under water. 2 diving bird.
Diverge v. (-ging) 1 a spread out from a central point, become dispersed. B take
different courses (their interests diverged). 2 a (often foll. By from) depart from
a set course.
Diversify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make diverse; vary. 2 spread (investment) over several
enterprises. 3 (often foll. By into) expand one’s range of products. diversification
n.
Diversity n. Variety.
Divest v. (usu. Foll. By of) 1 unclothe; strip. 2 deprive, rid. [latin: related to
*vest]
Divide —v. (-ding) 1 (often foll. By in, into) separate into parts; break up; split.
2 (often foll. By out) distribute; deal; share. 3 a separate (one thing) from
another. B classify into parts or groups. 4 cause to disagree. 5 a find how many
times (a number) contains or is contained in another (divide 20 by 4; divide 4
into 20). B (of a number) be contained in (a number) without remainder (4
divides into 20). 6 parl. Vote (by members entering either of two lobbies) (the
house divided). —n. 1 dividing line. 2 watershed. [latin divido -vis-]
Divination n. Supposed supernatural insight into the future etc. [latin: related to
*divine]
Divine —adj. (diviner, divinest) 1 a of, from, or like god or a god. B sacred. 2
colloq. Excellent; delightful. —v. (-ning) 1 discover by intuition or guessing. 2
foresee. 3 practise divination. —n. Theologian or clergyman. divinely adv. [latin
divinus]
Diving-bell n. Open-bottomed enclosure, supplied with air, for descent into deep
water.
Diving-suit n. Watertight suit, usu. With helmet and air-supply, for work under
water.
Divining-rod n. = *dowsing-rod.
Division sign n. Sign (÷) indicating that one quantity is to be divided by another.
Divot n. Piece of turf cut out by a blow, esp. By the head of a golf club. [origin
unknown]
Divvy colloq. —n. (pl. -ies) dividend. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By up) share
out. [abbreviation]
out. [abbreviation]
Divvy colloq. —n. (pl. -ies) dividend. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By up) share
out. [abbreviation]
Diwali n. Hindu and jainist festival with illuminations, held between september
and november. [sanskrit dipa lamp]
Dixie n. Large iron cooking-pot used by campers etc. [hindustani from persian]
Dizzy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a giddy. B feeling confused. 2 causing giddiness. —v.
(-ies, -ied) 1 make dizzy. 2 bewilder. dizzily adv. Dizziness n. [old english]
Djellaba n. (also jellaba) loose hooded cloak (as) worn by arab men. [arabic]
Dl abbr. Decilitre(s).
Dm abbr. Deutschmark.
Dm abbr. Decimetre(s).
D-notice n. Government notice to news editors not to publish certain items for
security reasons. [defence, *notice]
Do1 —v. (3 sing. Pres. Does; past did; past part. Done; pres. Part. Doing) 1
perform, carry out, achieve, complete (work etc.) (did his homework; a lot to
do). 2 produce, make, provide (doing a painting; we do lunches). 3 grant; impart
(does you good; do me a favour). 4 act, behave, proceed (do as i do; would do
well to wait). 5 work at (do carpentry; do chemistry). 6 be suitable or acceptable;
satisfy (will never do; will do me nicely). 7 deal with; attend to (do one’s hair). 8
fare; get on (did badly in the test). 9 solve; work out (did the sum). 10 a traverse
(a certain distance) (did 50 miles today). B travel at a specified speed (was doing
eighty). 11 colloq. Act or behave like; play the part of. 12 produce (a play, opera,
etc.) (will do shakespeare). 13 a colloq. Finish (i’ve done in the garden). B (as
done adj.) Be finished (day is done). 14 cook, esp. Completely (do it in the oven;
potatoes aren’t done). 15 be in progress (what’s doing?). 16 colloq. Visit (did the
museums). 17 colloq. A (often as done adj.) Exhaust; tire out. B defeat, kill, ruin.
18 (foll. By into) translate or transform. 19 colloq. Cater for (they do one very
well here). 20 slang a rob (did a big bank). B swindle. 21 slang prosecute,
convict (done for shoplifting). 22 slang undergo (a term of imprisonment). 23
slang take (an illegal drug). —v.aux. 1 in questions and negative statements or
commands (do you understand?; i don’t smoke; don’t be silly). 2 ellipt. Or in
place of a verb (you know her better than i do; i wanted to go and i did; tell me,
do!). 3 for emphasis (i do want to; do tell me; they did go). 4 in inversion (rarely
does it happen). —n. (pl. Dos or do’s) colloq. Elaborate party, operation, etc. be
done with see *done. Be nothing to do with 1 be no business of. 2 be
unconnected with. Be to do with be concerned or connected with. Do away with
colloq. 1 get rid of; abolish. 2 kill. Do down colloq. 1 cheat, swindle. 2
overcome. Do for 1 be satisfactory or sufficient for. 2 colloq. (esp. As done for
adj.) Destroy, ruin, kill. 3 colloq. Act as cleaner etc. For. Do in 1 slang a kill. B
ruin. 2 colloq. Exhaust, tire out. Do justice to see justice. Do nothing for (or to)
colloq. Not flatter or enhance. Do or die persist recklessly. Do out colloq. Clean
or redecorate (a room). Do a person out of colloq. Cheat of. Do over 1 slang
attack; beat up. 2 colloq. Redecorate, refurbish. Do proud see proud. Dos and
don’ts rules of behaviour. Do something for (or to) colloq. Enhance the
appearance or quality of. Do up 1 fasten. 2 colloq. A refurbish, renovate. B
adorn, dress up. Do with (prec. By could) would be glad of; would profit by
(could do with a rest). Do without manage without; forgo.
Doe n. (pl. Same or -s) female fallow deer, reindeer, hare, or rabbit. [old english]
Doer n. 1 person who does something. 2 person who acts rather than theorizing.
Dog —n. 1 four-legged flesh-eating animal akin to the fox and wolf, and of
many breeds. 2 male of this, or of the fox or wolf. 3 colloq. A despicable person.
B person of a specified kind (lucky dog). 4 mechanical device for gripping. 5 (in
pl.; prec. By the) colloq. Greyhound-racing. —v. (-gg-) follow closely; pursue,
track. go to the dogs slang deteriorate, be ruined. Like a dog’s dinner colloq.
Smartly or flashily (dressed etc.). Not a dog’s chance no chance at all. [old
english]
Doge n. Hist. Chief magistrate of venice or genoa. [italian from latin dux leader]
Doggy —adj. 1 of or like a dog. 2 devoted to dogs. —n. (also doggie) (pl. -ies)
pet name for a dog.
Dog in the manger n. Person who stops others using a thing for which he or she
has no use.
Dog-star n. Chief star of the constellation canis major or minor, esp. Sirius.
Doh n. (also do) mus. First note of a major scale. [italian do]
Doily n. (also doyley) (pl. -ies or -eys) small lacey usu. Paper mat used on a
plate for cakes etc. [doiley, name of a draper]
Doing pres. Part. Of *do1. —n. 1 a action (famous for his doings). B effort
(takes a lot of doing). 2 (in pl.) Slang unspecified things (have we got all the
doings?).
Doll —n. 1 small model of esp. A baby or child as a child’s toy. 2 colloq. A
pretty but silly young woman. B attractive woman. 3 ventriloquist’s dummy. —
v. (foll. By up) colloq. Dress smartly. [pet form of dorothy]
Dollar n. Chief monetary unit in the us, australia, etc. [low german daler from
german taler]
Dollop —n. Shapeless lump of food etc. —v. (-p-) (usu. Foll. By out) serve in
dollops. [perhaps from scandinavian]
Dolly n. (pl. -ies) 1 child’s name for a doll. 2 movable platform for a cine-
camera etc. 3 easy catch in cricket.
Dolman sleeve n. Loose sleeve cut in one piece with a bodice. [turkish]
Dolmen n. Megalithic tomb with a large flat stone laid on upright ones. [french]
Dolor n. (brit. Dolour) literary sorrow, distress. dolorous adj. [latin dolor pain]
Dolour n. (us dolor) literary sorrow, distress. dolorous adj. [latin dolor pain]
Dolphin n. Large porpoise-like sea mammal with a slender pointed snout. [greek
delphis -in-]
Dolt n. Stupid person. doltish adj. [apparently related to obsolete dol = *dull]
Dom n. Title of some roman catholic dignitaries, and benedictine and carthusian
monks. [latin dominus master]
Domain n. 1 area under one rule; realm. 2 estate etc. Under one control. 3 sphere
of control or influence. [french: related to *demesne]
Domiciliary adj. Formal (esp. Of a doctor’s etc. Visit) to, at, or of a person’s
home. [medieval latin: related to *domicile]
Dominican —adj. Of st dominic or his order. —n. Dominican friar or nun. [latin
dominicus dominic]
Domino n. (pl. -es) 1 any of 28 small oblong pieces marked with 0–6 pips in
each half. 2 (in pl.) Game played with these. 3 loose cloak with a mask. [french,
probably as *dominion]
Domino effect n. (also domino theory) effect whereby (or theory that) one event
precipitates others in causal sequence.
Done adj. 1 completed. 2 cooked. 3 colloq. Socially acceptable (the done thing).
4 (often with in) colloq. Tired out. 5 (esp. As int. In reply to an offer etc.)
Accepted. be done with have or be finished with. Done for colloq. In serious
trouble. Have done with be rid of; finish dealing with. [past part. Of *do1]
Doner kebab n. Spiced lamb cooked on a spit and served in slices, often with
pitta bread. [turkish: related to *kebab]
Donkey n. (pl. -s) 1 domestic ass. 2 colloq. Stupid person. [perhaps from duncan:
cf. *neddy]
Donor n. 1 person who donates (e.g. To charity). 2 person who provides blood,
semen, or an organ or tissue for medical use.
Donor card n. Official card authorizing the use of organs, carried by a donor.
Doodle —v. (-ling) scribble or draw, esp. Absent-mindedly. —n. Such a scribble
or drawing. [originally = foolish person]
Door n. 1 a esp. Hinged barrier for closing and opening the entrance to a
building, room, cupboard, etc. B this as representing a house etc. (lives two
doors away). 2 a entrance or exit; doorway. B means of access. close (or open)
the door to exclude (or create) an opportunity for. [old english]
Doorkeeper n. = *doorman.
Doorstep —n. 1 step or area in front of the outer door of a house etc. 2 slang
thick slice of bread. —v. Colloq. 1 go from door to door canvassing, selling, etc.
2 call upon or wait on the doorstep for (a person) in order to interview etc. on
one’s doorstep very near.
Doorstop n. Device for keeping a door open or to prevent it from striking the
wall.
wall.
Dope —n. 1 a slang narcotic. B drug etc. Given to a horse, athlete, etc., to
improve performance. 2 thick liquid used as a lubricant etc. 3 varnish. 4 slang
stupid person. 5 slang information. —v.
Dopey adj. (also dopy) (dopier, dopiest) colloq. 1 half asleep or stupefied as if
by a drug. 2 stupid. dopily adv. Dopiness n.
Doppler effect n. Increase (or decrease) in the frequency of sound, light, etc.
Waves caused by moving nearer to (or further from) the source. [doppler, name
of a physicist]
Dorado n. (pl. Same or -s) sea-fish showing brilliant colours when dying out of
water. [spanish, = gilded]
Doric —adj. 1 archit. Of the oldest and simplest of the greek orders. 2 (of a
dialect) broad, rustic. —n. Rustic english or esp. Scots. [from doris in greece]
Dormer n. (in full dormer window) projecting upright window in a sloping roof.
[french: related to *dormant]
Dory n. (pl. Same or -ies) any of various edible marine fish, esp. The john dory.
[french dorée = gilded]
Do-se-do n. (also do-si-do) (pl. -s) figure in which two dancers pass round each
other back to back. [french dos-à-dos, = back to back]
Dot —n. 1 a small spot or mark. B this as part of i or j, or as a decimal point etc.
2 shorter signal of the two in morse code. —v. (-tt-) 1 a mark with dot(s). B
place a dot over (a letter). 2 (often foll. By about) scatter like dots. 3 partly cover
as with dots (sea dotted with ships). 4 slang hit. dot the i’s and cross the t’s
colloq. 1 be minutely accurate. 2 add the final touches to a task etc. On the dot
exactly on time. The year dot colloq. Far in the past. [old english]
Dote v. (-ting) (foll. By on) be excessively fond of. dotingly adv. [origin
uncertain]
Dotted line n. Line of dots on a document etc., esp. For writing a signature on.
Dotty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 crazy; eccentric. 2 (foll. By about) infatuated
with. dottiness n.
Double-barrelled adj. 1 (of a gun) having two barrels. 2 (of a surname)
hyphenated.
Double-book v. Reserve (the same seat, room, etc.) For two people at once.
Double-cross —v. Deceive or betray (a supposed ally). —n. Act of doing this.
double-crosser n.
Double-decker n. 1 bus having an upper and lower deck. 2 colloq. Sandwich
with two layers of filling.
Double entry n. System of bookkeeping with entries debited in one account and
credited in another.
Double helix n. Pair of parallel helices with a common axis, esp. In the structure
of a dna molecule.
of a dna molecule.
Double-park v. (also absol.) Park (a vehicle) alongside one already parked at the
roadside.
Double-talk n. (usu. Deliberately) ambiguous or misleading speech.
Douche —n. 1 jet of liquid applied to part of the body for cleansing or medicinal
purposes. 2 device for producing such a jet. —v. (-ching) 1 treat with a douche.
2 use a douche. [latin: related to *duct]
Dough n. 1 thick mixture of flour etc. And liquid for baking. 2 slang money.
doughy adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english]
Doughnut n. (us donut) small fried cake of sweetened dough.
Doughty adj. (-ier, -iest) archaic valiant. doughtily adv. Doughtiness n. [old
english]
Dour adj. Severe, stern, obstinate. [probably gaelic dúr dull, obstinate]
Douse v. (also dowse) (-sing) 1 a throw water over. B plunge into water. 2
extinguish (a light). [origin uncertain]
Dove n. 1 bird with short legs, a small head, and a large breast. 2 gentle or
innocent person. 3 advocate of peace or peaceful policies. [old norse]
Dovetail —n. Mortise and tenon joint shaped like a dove’s spread tail. —v. 1
join with dovetails. 2 fit together; combine neatly.
Dowager n. 1 widow with a title or property from her late husband (dowager
duchess). 2 colloq. Dignified elderly woman. [french: related to *dower]
Dowdy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of clothes) unattractively dull. 2 dressed dowdily.
dowdily adv. Dowdiness n. [origin unknown]
Dowel —n. Cylindrical peg for holding structural components together. —v. (-
ll-; us -l-) fasten with a dowel. [low german]
Dower n. 1 widow’s share for life of a husband’s estate. 2 archaic dowry. [latin
dos dowry]
Dower house n. Smaller house near a big one, as part of a widow’s dower.
Down1 —adv. 1 into or towards a lower place, esp. To the ground (fall down). 2
in a lower place or position (blinds were down). 3 to or in a place regarded as
lower, esp.: a southwards. B away from a major city or a university. 4 a in or
into a low or weaker position or condition (hit a man when he’s down; down
with a cold). B losing by (three goals down; £5 down). C (of a computer system)
out of action. 5 from an earlier to a later time (down to 1600). 6 to a finer or
thinner consistency or smaller amount or size (grind down; water down; boil
down). 7 cheaper (bread is down; shares are down). 8 into a more settled state
(calm down). 9 in writing or recorded form (copy it down; down on tape; down
to speak next). 10 paid or dealt with as a deposit or part (£5 down, £20 to pay;
three down, six to go). 11 with the current or wind. 12 (of a crossword clue or
answer) read vertically (five down). —prep. 1 downwards along, through, or
answer) read vertically (five down). —prep. 1 downwards along, through, or
into. 2 from the top to the bottom of. 3 along (walk down the road). 4 at or in a
lower part of (lives down the road). —attrib. Adj. 1 directed downwards (a down
draught). 2 from a capital or centre (down train; down platform). —v. Colloq. 1
knock or bring down. 2 swallow. —n. 1 act of putting down. 2 reverse of fortune
(ups and downs). 3 colloq.
Down3 n. 1 open rolling land. 2 (in pl.) Chalk uplands, esp. In s. England. [old
english]
Downbeat —n. Mus. Accented beat, usu. The first of the bar. —adj. 1
pessimistic, gloomy. 2 relaxed.
Downland n. = *down3.
Down-market adj. & adv. Colloq. Of or to the cheaper sector of the market.
Downstream adv. & adj. In the direction in which a stream etc. Flows.
Downtown esp. Us —attrib. Adj. Of the lower or more central part of a town or
city. —n. Downtown area. —adv. In or into the downtown area.
Downwind adj. & adv. In the direction in which the wind is blowing.
Downy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or covered with down. 2 soft and fluffy.
Dowry n. (pl. -ies) property or money brought by a bride to her husband. [anglo-
french, = french douaire *dower]
Doxology n. (pl. -ies) liturgical hymn etc. Of praise to god. doxological adj.
[greek doxa glory]
Doze —v. (-zing) sleep lightly; be half asleep. —n. Short light sleep. doze off
fall lightly asleep. [origin unknown]
Dozen n. 1 (prec. By a or a number) (pl. Dozen) twelve (a dozen eggs; two
dozen eggs). 2 set of twelve (sold in dozens). 3 (in pl.; usu. Foll. By of) colloq.
Very many (dozens of errors). talk nineteen to the dozen talk incessantly. [latin
duodecim twelve]
Dr abbr. Doctor.
Drachma n. (pl. -s) 1 chief monetary unit of greece. 2 silver coin of ancient
greece. [greek drakhme]
Draconian adj. (of laws) very harsh, cruel. [drakon, name of an athenian
lawgiver]
Drafty adj. (brit. Draughty) (-ier, -iest) (of a room etc.) Letting in sharp currents
of air. draughtiness n.
Drag —v. (-gg-) 1 pull along with effort. 2 a trail or allow to trail along the
ground. B (often foll. By on) (of time, a meeting, etc.) Go or pass slowly or
tediously. 3 a use a grapnel. B search the bottom of (a river etc.) With grapnels,
nets, etc. 4 (often foll. By to) colloq. Take (an esp. Unwilling person) with one. 5
(foll. By on, at) draw on (a cigarette etc.). —n. 1 a obstruction to progress. B
retarding force or motion. 2 colloq. Boring or tiresome person, duty, etc. 3 a lure
before hounds as a substitute for a fox. B hunt using this. 4 apparatus for
dredging. 5 = *drag-net. 6 slang inhalation. 7 slang women’s clothes worn by
men. drag one’s feet be deliberately slow or reluctant to act. Drag in introduce
(an irrelevant subject). Drag out protract. Drag up colloq. Introduce or revive (an
unwelcome subject). [old english or old norse]
Draggle v. (-ling) 1 make dirty, wet, or limp by trailing. 2 hang trailing. [from
*drag]
Drag-net n. 1 net drawn through a river or across the ground to trap fish or game.
2 systematic hunt for criminals etc.
Dragon n. 1 mythical usu. Winged monster like a reptile, able to breathe fire. 2
fierce woman. [greek, = serpent]
Dragonfly n. Large insect with a long body and two pairs of transparent wings.
Dragoon —n. 1 cavalryman. 2 fierce fellow. —v. (foll. By into) coerce or bully
into. [french dragon: related to *dragon]
Drain —v. 1 draw off liquid from. 2 draw off (liquid). 3 flow or trickle away. 4
dry or become dry as liquid flows away. 5 exhaust of strength or resources. 6 a
drink to the dregs. B empty (a glass etc.) By drinking the contents. —n. 1 a
channel, conduit, or pipe carrying off liquid, sewage, etc. B tube for drawing off
discharge etc. 2 constant outflow or expenditure. down the drain colloq. Lost,
wasted. [old english: related to *dry]
Drainpipe n. 1 pipe for carrying off water etc. 2 (attrib.) (of trousers) very
narrow. 3 (in pl.) Very narrow trousers.
Dralon n. Propr. 1 synthetic acrylic fibre. 2 fabric made from this. [invented
word, after *nylon]
Dram n. 1 small drink of spirits, esp. Whisky. 2 = drachm. [latin drama: related
to drachm]
Dramatize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 turn (a novel etc.) Into a play. 2 make a
dramatic scene of. 3 behave dramatically. dramatization n.
Drape —v. (-ping) 1 hang or cover loosely, adorn with cloth etc. 2 arrange
(hangings etc.) Esp. In folds. —n. (in pl.) Us curtains. [latin drappus cloth]
Drat colloq. —v. (-tt-) (usu. As int.) Curse (drat the thing!). —int. Expressing
anger or annoyance. dratted adj. [(go)d rot]
Draught beer n. Beer from the cask, not bottled or canned.
Draughtboard n. = *chessboard.
Draughty adj. (us drafty) (-ier, -iest) (of a room etc.) Letting in sharp currents of
air. draughtiness n.
Draw —v. (past drew; past part. Drawn) 1 pull or cause to move towards or after
one. 2 pull (a thing) up, over, or across. 3 pull (curtains etc.) Open or shut. 4 take
(a person) aside. 5 attract; bring; take in (drew a deep breath; felt drawn to her;
drew my attention; drew a crowd). 6 (foll. By at, on) inhale from (a cigarette,
pipe, etc.). 7 (also absol.) Take out; remove (a tooth, gun, cork, card, etc.). 8
obtain or take from a source (draw a salary; draw inspiration; drew £100 out). 9
a (also absol.) Make (a line or mark). B produce (a picture) thus. C represent
(something) thus. 10 (also absol.) Finish (a contest or game) with equal scores.
11 proceed (drew near the bridge; draw to a close; drew level). 12 infer (a
conclusion).
Drawback n. Disadvantage.
Drawer n. 1 person or thing that draws, esp. A cheque etc. 2 also lidless boxlike
storage compartment, sliding in and out of a table etc. (chest of drawers). 3 (in
pl.) Knickers, underpants.
Drawing n. 1 art of representing by line with a pencil etc. 2 picture etc. Made
thus.
Drawl —v. Speak with drawn-out vowel sounds. —n. Drawling utterance or way
of speaking. [low german or dutch]
Dray n. Low cart without sides for heavy loads, esp. Beer-barrels. [related to
*draw]
Dread —v. Fear greatly, esp. In advance. —n. Great fear or apprehension. —adj.
1 dreaded. 2 archaic awe-inspiring, dreadful. [old english]
Dreadful adj. 1 terrible. 2 colloq. Very annoying, very bad. dreadfully adv.
Dreadlocks n.pl. Rastafarian hairstyle with hair hanging in tight braids on all
sides.
Dreary adj. (-ier, -iest) dismal, dull, gloomy. drearily adv. Dreariness n. [old
english]
Dredge1 —n. Apparatus used to scoop up oysters etc., or to clear mud etc., from
a river or sea bed. —v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By up) a bring up or clear (mud etc.)
With a dredge. B bring up (something forgotten) (dredged it all up). 2 clean with
or use a dredge. [origin uncertain]
Dredge2 v. (-ging) sprinkle with flour, sugar, etc. [earlier = sweetmeat, from
french]
Dredger2 n. Container with a perforated lid, for sprinkling flour, sugar, etc.
Drench —v. 1 wet thoroughly. 2 force (an animal) to take medicine. —n. Dose
of medicine for an animal. [old english]
Dress —v. 1 a (also absol.) Put clothes on. B have and wear clothes (dresses
well). 2 put on evening dress. 3 arrange or adorn (hair, a shop window, etc.). 4
treat (a wound) esp. With a dressing. 5 a prepare (poultry, crab, etc.) For cooking
or eating. B add dressing to (a salad etc.). 6 apply manure to. 7 finish the surface
of (fabric, leather, stone, etc.). 8 correct the alignment of (troops). 9 make (an
artificial fly) for fishing. —n. 1 woman’s garment of a bodice and skirt. 2
clothing, esp. A whole outfit. 3 formal or ceremonial costume. 4 external
covering; outward form. dress down colloq. 1 reprimand or scold. 2 dress
informally. Dress up 1 put on special clothes. 2 make (a thing) more attractive or
interesting. [french dresser, ultimately related to *direct]
Dresser1 n. Kitchen sideboard with shelves for plates etc. [french dresser
prepare]
Dressing n. 1 putting one’s clothes on. 2 a sauce, esp. Of oil and vinegar etc., for
salads (french dressing). B sauce or stuffing etc. For food. 3 bandage, ointment,
etc., for a wound. 4 size or stiffening used to coat fabrics. 5 compost etc. Spread
over land.
Dressing-table n. Table with a flat top, mirror, and drawers, used while applying
make-up etc.
Dress-shirt n. Man’s shirt worn with evening dress, usu. White with concealed
buttons or studs.
Dressy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. (of clothes or a person) smart, elaborate, elegant.
dressiness n.
Dribble —v. (-ling) 1 allow saliva to flow from the mouth. 2 flow or allow to
flow in drops. 3 (also absol.) Esp. Football & hockey move (the ball) forward
with slight touches of the feet or stick. —n. 1 act of dribbling. 2 dribbling flow.
with slight touches of the feet or stick. —n. 1 act of dribbling. 2 dribbling flow.
[obsolete drib = *drip]
Drill1 —n. 1 tool or machine for boring holes, sinking wells, etc. 2 instruction in
military exercises. 3 routine procedure in an emergency (fire-drill). 4 thorough
training, esp. By repetition. 5 colloq. Recognized procedure (what’s the drill?).
—v. 1 a make a hole in or through with a drill. B make (a hole) with a drill. 2
train or be trained by drill. [dutch]
Drill2 —n. 1 machine for making furrows, sowing, and covering seed. 2 small
furrow. 3 row of seeds sown by a drill. —v. Plant in drills. [origin unknown]
Drill3 n. Coarse twilled cotton or linen fabric. [latin trilix having three threads]
Drink —v. (past drank; past part. Drunk) 1 a (also absol.) Swallow (liquid). B
swallow the contents of (a vessel). 2 take alcohol, esp. To excess. 3 (of a plant,
sponge, etc.) Absorb (moisture). 4 bring (oneself etc.) To a specified condition
by drinking. 5 wish (a person good health etc.) By drinking (drank his health).
—n. 1 a liquid for drinking. B draught or specified amount of this. 2 a alcoholic
liquor. B portion, glass, etc. Of this. C excessive use of alcohol (took to drink). 3
(the drink) colloq. The sea. drink in listen eagerly to. Drink to toast; wish
success to. Drink up (also absol.) Drink all or the remainder of. drinkable adj.
Drinker n.
Drink-driver n. Person who drives with excess alcohol in the blood. drink-
driving n.
Drip —v. (-pp-) 1 fall or let fall in drops. 2 (often foll. By with) be so wet as to
shed drops. —n. 1 a liquid falling in drops (steady drip of rain). B drop of liquid.
C sound of dripping. 2 colloq. Dull or ineffectual person. 3 = *drip-feed. be
dripping with be full of or covered with. [danish: cf. *drop]
Drip-dry —v. Dry or leave to dry crease-free when hung up. —adj. Able to be
drip-dried.
Drip-feed —v. Feed intravenously in drops. —n. 1 feeding thus. 2 apparatus for
doing this.
Drive —v. (-ving; past drove; past part. Driven) 1 urge forward, esp. Forcibly. 2
a compel (was driven to complain). B force into a specified state (drove him
mad). C (often refl.) Urge to overwork. 3 a operate and direct (a vehicle,
locomotive, etc.). B convey or be conveyed in a vehicle. C be competent to drive
(a vehicle) (does he drive?). D travel in a private vehicle. 4 (of wind etc.) Carry
along, propel, esp. Rapidly (driven snow; driving rain). 5 a (often foll. By into)
force (a stake, nail, etc.) Into place by blows. B bore (a tunnel etc.). 6 effect or
conclude forcibly (drove a hard bargain; drove his point home). 7 (of power)
operate (machinery). 8 (usu. Foll. By at) work hard; dash, rush. 9 hit (a ball)
forcibly. —n. 1 journey or excursion in a vehicle. 2 a (esp. Scenic) street or road.
B private road through a garden to a house. 3 a motivation and energy. B inner
urge (sex-drive). 4 forcible stroke of a bat etc. 5 organized effort (membership
drive). 6 a transmission of power to machinery, wheels, etc. B position of the
steering-wheel in a vehicle (left-hand drive). C computing = *disk drive. 7
organized whist, bingo, etc. Competition. drive at seek, intend, or mean (what is
he driving at?). [old english]
Drive-in —attrib. Adj. (of a bank, cinema, etc.) Used while sitting in one’s car.
—n. Such a bank, cinema, etc.
Drivel —n. Silly talk; nonsense. —v. (-ll-; us -l-, -ling) 1 talk drivel. 2 run at the
mouth or nose. [old english]
Driver n. 1 person who drives a vehicle. 2 golf-club for driving from a tee.
Drizzle —n. Very fine rain. —v. (-ling) (of rain) fall in very fine drops. drizzly
adj. [old english]
Droll adj. Quaintly amusing; strange, odd. drollery n. (pl. -ies). Drolly adv.
[french]
Dromedary n. (pl. -ies) one-humped (esp. Arabian) camel bred for riding. [greek
dromas -ados runner]
Droop —v. 1 bend or hang down, esp. From weariness; flag. 2 (of the eyes) look
downwards. —n. 1 drooping attitude. 2 loss of spirit. droopy adj. [old norse:
related to *drop]
Drop —n. 1 a globule of liquid that hangs, falls, or adheres to a surface. B very
small amount of liquid (just a drop left). C glass etc. Of alcohol. 2 a abrupt fall
or slope. B amount of this (drop of fifteen feet). C act of dropping. D fall in
prices, temperature, etc. E deterioration (drop in status). 3 drop-shaped thing,
esp. A pendant or sweet. 4 curtain or scenery let down on to a stage. 5 (in pl.)
Liquid medicine used in drops (eye drops). 6 minute quantity. 7 slang hiding-
place for stolen goods etc. 8 slang bribe. —v. (-pp-) 1 fall or let fall in drops,
shed (tears, blood). 2 fall or allow to fall; let go. 3 a sink down from exhaustion
or injury. B die. C fall naturally (drop asleep; drop into the habit). 4 a (cause to)
cease or lapse; abandon. B colloq. Cease to associate with or discuss. 5 set down
(a passenger etc.) (drop me here). 6 utter or be uttered casually (dropped a hint).
7 send casually (drop a line). 8 a fall or allow to fall in direction, amount,
condition, degree, pitch, etc. (voice dropped; wind dropped; we dropped the
price). B (of a person) jump down lightly; let oneself fall. C allow (trousers etc.)
To fall to the ground. 9 omit (a letter) in speech (drop one’s h’s). 10 (as dropped
adj.) In a lower position than usual (dropped handlebars; dropped waist). 11 give
birth to (esp. A lamb). 12 lose (a game, point, etc.). 13 deliver by parachute etc.
14 football send (a ball), or score (a goal), by a drop-kick. 15 colloq. Dismiss or
omit (dropped from the team). at the drop of a hat promptly, instantly. Drop back
(or behind) fall back; get left behind. Drop a brick colloq. Make an indiscreet or
embarrassing remark. Drop a curtsy curtsy. Drop in (or by) colloq. Visit
casually. Drop off 1 fall asleep. 2 drop (a passenger). Drop out colloq. Cease to
participate. droplet n. [old english]
Drop-kick n. Football kick as the ball touches the ground having been dropped.
Droppings n.pl. 1 dung of animals or birds. 2 thing that falls or has fallen in
drops.
Drop scone n. Scone made by dropping a spoonful of mixture into the pan etc.
Drove2 n. 1 a moving crowd. B (in pl.) Colloq. Great number (people arrived in
droves). 2 herd or flock driven or moving together. [old english: related to
*drive]
Drover n. Herder of cattle.
Drowsy adj. (-ier, -iest) very sleepy, almost asleep. drowsily adv. Drowsiness n.
[probably old english]
Drudge —n. Person who does dull, laborious, or menial work. —v. (-ging) work
laboriously, toil. drudgery n. [origin uncertain]
Drugget n. Coarse woven fabric used for floor coverings etc. [french]
Drum —n. 1 hollow esp. Cylindrical percussion instrument covered at the end(s)
with plastic etc. 2 (often in pl.) Percussion section of an orchestra etc. 3 sound
made by a drum. 4 thing resembling a drum, esp. A container, etc. 5 segment of
a pillar. 6 eardrum. —v. (-mm-) 1 play a drum. 2 beat or tap continuously with
the fingers etc. 3 (of a bird or insect) make a loud noise with the wings. drum
into drive (a lesson or facts) into (a person) by persistence. Drum out dismiss
with ignominy. Drum up summon or get by vigorous effort (drum up support).
[low german]
Drum brake n. Brake in which brake shoes on a vehicle press against the brake
drum on a wheel.
Drunk —adj. 1 lacking control from drinking alcohol. 2 (often foll. By with)
overcome with joy, success, power, etc. —n. Person who is drunk, esp.
Habitually. [past part. Of *drink]
Drupe n. Fleshy stone-fruit, e.g. The olive and plum. [latin from greek]
Dry —adj. (drier; driest) 1 free from moisture, esp.: a with moisture having
evaporated, drained away, etc. (clothes are not dry yet). B (of eyes) free from
tears. C (of a climate etc.) With insufficient rain; not rainy (dry spell). D (of a
river, well, etc.) Dried up. E using or producing no moisture (dry shampoo; dry
cough). F (of a shave) with an electric razor. 2 (of wine) not sweet (dry sherry).
3 a plain, unelaborated (dry facts). B uninteresting (dry book). 4 (of a sense of
humour) subtle, ironic, understated. 5 prohibiting the sale of alcohol (a dry
state). 6 (of bread) without butter etc. 7 (of provisions etc.) Solid, not liquid. 8
impassive. 9 (of a cow) not yielding milk. 10 colloq. Thirsty (feel dry). —v.
(dries, dried) 1 make or become dry. 2 (usu. As dried adj.) Preserve (food etc.)
By removing moisture. 3 (often foll. By up) colloq. Forget one’s lines. —n. (pl.
Dries) 1 act of drying. 2 dry ginger ale. 3 dry place (come into the dry). dry out 1
make or become fully dry. 2 treat or be treated for alcoholism. Dry up 1 make or
become utterly dry. 2 dry dishes. 3 colloq. (esp. In imper.) Cease talking. 4
become unproductive. 5 (of supplies) run out. dryness n. [old english]
Dry battery n. (also dry cell) electric battery or cell in which electrolyte is
absorbed in a solid.
Dry dock n. Dock that can be pumped dry for building or repairing ships.
Dry land n. Land as distinct from sea etc.
Dss abbr. Department of social security (formerly dhss).
Dual —adj. 1 in two parts; twofold. 2 double (dual ownership). —n. Gram. Dual
number or form. duality n. [latin duo two]
Dual control n. Two linked sets of controls, enabling operation by either of two
persons.
Dub2 v. (-bb-) 1 provide (a film etc.) With an, esp. Translated, alternative
soundtrack. 2 add (sound effects or music) to a film or broadcast. 3 transfer or
make a copy of (recorded sound or images). [abbreviation of *double]
Dubbin n. (also dubbing) thick grease for softening and waterproofing leather.
[see *dub1 3]
Ducat n. Gold coin, formerly current in most of europe. [medieval latin ducatus
*duchy]
Duchesse potatoes n.pl. Mashed potatoes mixed with egg, baked or fried, and
served as small cakes or used as piping. [french]
Duck1 —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 a swimming-bird, esp. The domesticated form of
the mallard or wild duck. B female of this. C its flesh as food. 2 score of 0 in
cricket. 3 (also ducks) colloq. (esp. As a form of address) dear. —v. 1 bob down,
esp. To avoid being seen or hit. 2 a dip one’s head briefly under water. B plunge
(a person) briefly in water. 3 colloq. Dodge (a task etc.). like water off a duck’s
back colloq. Producing no effect. [old english]
Duck2 n. 1 strong linen or cotton fabric. 2 (in pl.) Trousers made of this. [dutch]
Duckboard n. (usu. In pl.) Path of wooden slats over muddy ground, in a trench,
etc.
Ducks and drakes n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Game of making a flat stone skim
the surface of water. play ducks and drakes with colloq. Squander.
Duct —n. Channel or tube for conveying a fluid, cable, bodily secretions, etc.
(tear ducts). —v. Convey through a duct. [latin ductus from duco duct-lead]
Ductile adj. 1 (of metal) capable of being drawn into wire; pliable. 2 easily
moulded. 3 docile. ductility n. [latin: related to *duct]
Ductless gland n. Gland secreting directly into the bloodstream.
Dud slang —n. 1 useless or broken thing. 2 counterfeit article. 3 (in pl.) Clothes,
rags. —adj. Useless, defective. [origin unknown]
Due —adj. 1 owing or payable. 2 (often foll. By to) merited; appropriate. 3 (foll.
By to) that ought to be given or ascribed to (a person, cause, etc.) (first place is
due to milton; difficulty due to ignorance). 4 (often foll.
Usage the use of due to to mean ‘because of’ as in the example given is regarded
as unacceptable by some people and could be avoided by substituting his
lateness was due to an accident. Alternatively, owing to could be used.
Duel —n. 1 armed contest between two people, usu. To the death. 2 two-sided
contest. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) fight a duel. duellist n. [latin duellum war]
Duet n. Musical composition for two performers. duettist n. [latin duo two]
Duff1 —n. Boiled pudding. —adj. Slang worthless, counterfeit, useless. [var. Of
*dough]
Duke n. 1 person holding the highest hereditary title of the nobility. 2 sovereign
prince ruling a duchy or small state. dukedom n. [latin dux leader]
Dull —adj. 1 tedious; not interesting. 2 (of the weather) overcast. 3 (of colour,
light, sound, etc.) Not bright, vivid, or clear. 4 (of a pain) indistinct; not acute (a
dull ache). 5 slow-witted; stupid. 6 (of a knife-edge etc.) Blunt. 7 a (of trade etc.)
Sluggish, slow. B listless; depressed. 8 (of the ears, eyes, etc.) Lacking keenness.
—v. Make or become dull. dullness n. Dully adv. [low german or dutch]
Dumb-bell n. 1 short bar with a weight at each end, for muscle-building etc. 2
slang stupid person, esp. A woman.
Dumb waiter n. Small hand-operated lift for conveying food from kitchen to
dining-room.
Dumdum n. (in full dumdum bullet) soft-nosed bullet that expands on impact.
[dum-dum in india]
Dummy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 model of a human figure, esp. As used to display
clothes or by a ventriloquist or as a target. 2 (often attrib.) Imitation object used
to replace a real or normal one. 3 baby’s rubber or plastic teat. 4 colloq. Stupid
person. 5 figurehead. 6 imaginary player in bridge etc., whose cards are exposed
and played by a partner. —attrib. Adj.
Dumpling n. 1 ball of dough boiled in stew or containing apple etc. 2 small fat
person. [dump small round object]
Dumps n.pl. (usu. In down in the dumps) colloq. Low spirits. [low german or
dutch: related to *damp]
Dump truck n. Truck that tilts or opens at the back for unloading.
Dumpy adj. (-ier, -iest) short and stout. dumpily adv. Dumpiness n. [related to
*dumpling]
Dun —adj. Greyish-brown. —n. 1 dun colour. 2 dun horse. [old english]
Dune n. Drift of sand etc. Formed by the wind. [dutch: related to *down3]
Dung —n. Excrement of animals; manure. —v. Apply dung to (land). [old
english]
Dungaree n. 1 coarse cotton cloth. 2 (in pl.) Overalls or trousers of this. [hindi]
Dunk v. 1 dip (food) into liquid before eating. 2 immerse. [german tunken dip]
Duo n. (pl. -s) 1 pair of performers. 2 duet. [italian from latin, = two]
Duodenum n. (pl. -s) first part of the small intestine immediately below the
stomach. duodenal adj. [medieval latin: related to *duodecimal]
Duplex —n. (often attrib.) Esp. Us 1 flat on two floors. 2 house subdivided for
two families; semi-detached house. —adj. 1 of two parts. 2 computing (of a
circuit) allowing simultaneous two-way transmission of signals. [latin, = double]
Duplicator n. Machine for making multiple copies of a text etc.
Durable —adj. 1 lasting; hard-wearing. 2 (of goods) with a relatively long useful
life. —n. (in pl.) Durable goods. durability n. [latin durus hard]
Dura mater n. Tough outermost membrane enveloping the brain and spinal cord.
[medieval latin = hard mother, translation of arabic]
Dust —n. 1 finely powdered earth or other material etc. (pollen dust). 2 dead
person’s remains. 3 confusion, turmoil. —v. 1 wipe the dust from (furniture
etc.). 2 a sprinkle with powder, sugar, etc. B sprinkle (sugar, powder, etc.). dust
down 1 dust the clothes of. 2 colloq. Reprimand. 3 = dust off. Dust off 1 remove
the dust from. 2 use again after a long period. When the dust settles when things
quieten down. [old english]
Dusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of or covered with dust. 2 (of a colour) dull or
muted. not so dusty slang fairly good. dustily adv. Dustiness n.
Dutch —adj. Of the netherlands or its people or language. —n. 1 the dutch
language. 2 (prec. By the; treated as pl.) The people of the netherlands. go dutch
share expenses on an outing etc. [dutch]
Dutch courage n. Courage induced by alcohol.
Dutch oven n. 1 metal box with the open side facing a fire. 2 covered cooking-
pot for braising etc.
Dutch treat n. Party, outing, etc., at which people pay for themselves.
Duvet n. Thick soft quilt used instead of sheets and blankets. [french]
Dwarf —n. (pl. -s or dwarves) 1 person, animal, or plant much below normal
size. 2 small mythological being with magical powers. 3 small usu. Dense star.
—v. 1 stunt in growth. 2 make seem small. dwarfish adj. [old english]
Usage in sense 1, with regard to people, the term person of restricted growth is
now often preferred.
Dwell v. (past and past part. Dwelt or dwelled) live, reside. dwell on (or upon)
think, write, or speak at length on. dweller n. [old english, = lead astray]
Dy symb. Dysprosium.
Dye —n. 1 substance used to change the colour of hair, fabric, etc. 2 colour so
produced. —v. (dyeing, dyed) 1 colour with dye. 2 dye a specified colour (dyed
it yellow). dyer n. [old english]
Dying attrib. Adj. Of, or at the time of, death (dying words).
Dyke1 (also dike) —n. 1 embankment built to prevent flooding. 2 low wall of
turf or stone. —v. (-king) provide or protect with dyke(s). [related to *ditch]
Dynamics n.pl. 1 (usu. Treated as sing.) A mathematical study of motion and the
forces causing it. B branch of any science concerned with forces or changes. 2
motive forces in any sphere. 3 mus. Variation in loudness.
Dynamo n. (pl. -s) 1 machine converting mechanical into electrical energy, esp.
By rotating coils of copper wire in a magnetic field. 2 colloq. Energetic person.
[abbreviation of dynamo-electric machine]
Dyne n. Physics force required to give a mass of one gram an acceleration of one
centimetre per second per second. [greek dunamis force]
E1 n. (also e) (pl. Es or e’s) 1 fifth letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Third note of the
diatonic scale of c major.
Each —adj. Every one of two or more persons or things, regarded separately
(five in each class). —pron. Each person or thing (each of us). [old english]
Each way adj. (of a bet) backing a horse etc. To win or to come second or third.
Eager adj. Keen, enthusiastic (eager to learn; eager for news). eagerly adv.
Eagerness n. [latin acer keen]
Eagle n. 1 a large bird of prey with keen vision and powerful flight. B this as a
symbol, esp. Of the us. 2 score of two strokes under par at any hole in golf. [latin
symbol, esp. Of the us. 2 score of two strokes under par at any hole in golf. [latin
aquila]
Ear1 n. 1 organ of hearing, esp. Its external part. 2 faculty for discriminating
sounds (an ear for music). 3 attention, esp. Sympathetic (give ear to; have a
person’s ear). all ears listening attentively. Have (or keep) an ear to the ground
be alert to rumours or trends. Up to one’s ears (often foll. By in) colloq. Deeply
involved or occupied. [old english]
Earl n. British nobleman ranking between marquis and viscount. earldom n. [old
english]
Early —adj. & adv. (-ier, -iest) 1 before the due, usual, or expected time. 2 a not
far on in the day or night, or in time (early evening; at the earliest opportunity).
B prompt (early payment appreciated). 3 not far on in a period, development, or
process of evolution; being the first stage (early english architecture; early
spring). 4 forward in flowering, ripening, etc. (early peaches). —n. (pl. -ies)
(usu. In pl.) Early fruit or vegetable. earliness n. [old english: related to *ere]
Early bird n. Colloq. Person who arrives, gets up, etc. Early.
Earmark —v. Set aside for a special purpose. —n. Identifying mark.
Ear-piercing —adj. Shrill. —n. Piercing of the ears for wearing earrings.
Earplug n. Piece of wax etc. Placed in the ear to protect against water, noise, etc.
Earth —n. 1 a (also earth) the planet on which we live. B land and sea, as
distinct from sky. 2 a the ground (fell to earth). B soil, mould. 3 relig. This
world, as distinct from heaven or hell. 4 connection to the earth as the
completion of an electrical circuit. 5 hole of a fox etc. 6 (prec. By the) colloq.
Huge sum; everything (cost the earth; want the earth). —v. 1 cover (plant-roots)
with earth. 2 connect (an electrical circuit) to the earth. come back (or down) to
earth return to realities. Gone to earth in hiding. On earth colloq. Existing
anywhere; emphatically (the happiest man on earth; looked like nothing on
earth; what on earth have you done?). Run to earth find after a long search.
earthward adj. & adv. Earthwards adv. [old english]
Earthbound adj. 1 attached to the earth or earthly things. 2 moving towards the
earth.
Earthly adj. 1 of the earth or human life on it; terrestrial. 2 (usu. With neg.)
Colloq. Remotely possible (is no earthly use; there wasn’t an earthly reason). not
an earthly colloq. No chance or idea whatever.
Earth sciences n.pl. Those concerned with the earth or part of it.
Earthwork n. Artificial bank of earth in fortification or road-building etc.
Earthy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like earth or soil. 2 coarse, crude (earthy humour).
earthiness n.
Earwig n. Small insect with pincers at its rear end. [from *ear1, because they
were once thought to enter the head through the ear]
Easel n. Stand for an artist’s work, a blackboard, etc. [dutch ezel ass]
Easement n. Legal right of way or similar right over another’s land. [french:
related to *ease]
Easily adv. 1 without difficulty. 2 by far (easily the best). 3 very probably (it
Easily adv. 1 without difficulty. 2 by far (easily the best). 3 very probably (it
could easily snow).
East —n. 1 a point of the horizon where the sun rises at the equinoxes. B
compass point corresponding to this. C direction in which this lies. 2 (usu. The
east) a countries to the east of europe. B states of eastern europe. 3 eastern part
of a country, town, etc. —adj. 1 towards, at, near, or facing the east. 2 from the
east (east wind). —adv. 1 towards, at, or near the east. 2 (foll. By of) further east
than. to the east (often foll. By of) in an easterly direction. [old english]
Easterly —adj. & adv. 1 in an eastern position or direction. 2 (of a wind) from
the east. —n. (pl. -ies) such a wind.
Eastward —adj. & adv. (also eastwards) towards the east. —n. Eastward
direction or region.
Easy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 not difficult; not requiring great effort. 2 free from
pain, trouble, or anxiety. 3 free from constraint; relaxed and pleasant. 4
compliant. —adv. With ease; in an effortless or relaxed manner. —int. Go or
move carefully. easy on the eye (or ear etc.) Colloq. Pleasant to look at (or listen
to etc.). Go easy (foll. By with, on) be sparing or cautious. I’m easy colloq. I
have no preference. Take it easy 1 proceed gently. 2 relax; work less. easiness n.
[french: related to *ease]
Eat —v. (past ate; past part. Eaten) 1 a take into the mouth, chew, and swallow
(food). B consume food; take a meal. C devour (eaten by a lion). 2 (foll. By
away, at, into) a destroy gradually, esp. By corrosion, disease, etc. B begin to
consume or diminish (resources etc.). 3 colloq. Trouble, vex (what’s eating
you?). —n. (in pl.) Colloq. Food. eat one’s heart out suffer from excessive
longing or envy. Eat out have a meal away from home, esp. In a restaurant. Eat
up 1 eat completely.
Ebb —n. Movement of the tide out to sea. —v. (often foll. By away) 1 flow out
to sea; recede. 2 decline (life was ebbing away). [old english]
Ebony —n. Heavy hard dark wood of a tropical tree. —adj. 1 made of ebony. 2
Ebony —n. Heavy hard dark wood of a tropical tree. —adj. 1 made of ebony. 2
black like ebony. [greek ebenos ebony tree]
Eccles cake n. Round cake of pastry filled with currants etc. [eccles in n.
England]
Echinoderm n. (usu. Spiny) sea animal of the group including the starfish and
sea urchin. [greek ekhinos sea-urchin, derma skin]
Echo —n. (pl. -es) 1 a repetition of a sound by the reflection of sound waves. B
sound so produced. 2 reflected radio or radar beam. 3 close imitation or imitator.
4 circumstance or event reminiscent of an earlier one. —v. (-es, -ed) 1 a (of a
place) resound with an echo. B (of a sound) be repeated; resound. 2 repeat (a
sound) thus. 3 a repeat (another’s words). B imitate the opinions etc. Of. [latin
from greek]
Éclair n. Small elongated iced cake of choux pastry filled with cream. [french, =
lightning]
Eclectic —adj. Selecting ideas, style, etc., from various sources. —n. Eclectic
person or philosopher. eclectically adv. Eclecticism n. [greek eklego pick out]
Eclipse —n. 1 obscuring of light from one heavenly body by another. 2 loss of
light, importance, or prominence. —v. (-sing) 1 (of a heavenly body) cause the
eclipse of (another). 2 intercept (light). 3 outshine, surpass. [greek ekleipsis]
Ecliptic n. Sun’s apparent path among the stars during the year.
Ecology n. 1 the study of the relations of organisms to one another and to their
surroundings. 2 the study of the interaction of people with their environment.
ecological adj. Ecologically adv. Ecologist n. [greek oikos house]
Economics n.pl. (as sing.) 1 science of the production and distribution of wealth.
2 application of this to a particular subject (the economics of publishing).
-ectomy comb. Form denoting the surgical removal of part of the body
(appendectomy). [greek ektome excision]
Eczema n. Inflammation of the skin, with itching and discharge. [latin from
greek]
-ed1 suffix forming adjectives: 1 from nouns, meaning ‘having, wearing, etc.’
(talented; trousered). 2 from phrases of adjective and noun (good-humoured).
[old english]
-ed2 suffix forming: 1 past tense and past participle of weak verbs (needed). 2
participial adjectives (escaped prisoner). [old english]
Eddy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 circular movement of water causing a small whirlpool. 2
movement of wind, smoke, etc. Resembling this. —v. (-ies, -ied) whirl round in
eddies. [old english ed-again, back]
Eden n. Place or state of great happiness, with reference to the abode of adam
and eve at the creation. [hebrew, originally = delight]
Edentate —adj. Having no or few teeth. —n. Such a mammal. [latin dens dent-
tooth]
Edgeways adv. (also edgewise) with edge uppermost or foremost. get a word in
edgeways contribute to a conversation when the dominant speaker pauses.
Edifice n. Building, esp. An imposing one. [latin aedis dwelling]
Educate v. (-ting) 1 give intellectual, moral, and social instruction to. 2 provide
Educate v. (-ting) 1 give intellectual, moral, and social instruction to. 2 provide
education for. educable adj. Educability n. Educative adj. Educator n. [latin
educo -are rear]
Educated adj. 1 having had an (esp. Good) education. 2 resulting from this
(educated accent). 3 based on experience or study (educated guess).
Educe v. (-cing) literary bring out or develop from latency. eduction n. [latin
educo -ere draw out]
-ee suffix forming nouns denoting: 1 person affected by the verbal action
(employee; payee). 2 person concerned with or described as (absentee; refugee).
3 object of smaller size (bootee). [french -é in past part.]
Eerie adj. (eerier, eeriest) gloomy and strange; weird (eerie silence). eerily adv.
Eeriness n. [old english]
Ef-see *ex-1.
Efface v. (-cing) 1 rub or wipe out (a mark, recollection, etc.). 2 surpass, eclipse.
3 refl. (usu. As self-effacing adj.) Treat oneself as unimportant. effacement n.
[french: related to *face]
Effect —n. 1 result or consequence of an action etc. 2 efficacy (had little effect).
3 impression produced on a spectator, hearer, etc. (lights gave a pretty effect;
said it just for effect). 4 (in pl.) Property. 5 (in pl.) Lighting, sound, etc., giving
realism to a play, film, etc. 6 physical phenomenon (doppler effect; greenhouse
effect). —v. Bring about (a change, cure, etc.). bring (or carry) into effect
accomplish. Give effect to make operative. In effect for practical purposes. Take
effect become operative. To the effect that the gist being that. To that effect
having that result or implication. With effect from coming into operation at (a
stated time). [latin: related to *fact]
Usage effect should not be confused with affect which, as a verb, has more
Usage effect should not be confused with affect which, as a verb, has more
meanings and is more common, but which does not exist as a noun.
Efficacious adj. Producing the desired effect. efficacy n. [latin efficax: related to
*efficient]
Effigy n. (pl. -ies) sculpture or model of a person. burn in effigy burn a model of
a person. [latin effigies from fingo fashion]
Effloresce v. (-cing) 1 burst into flower. 2 a (of a substance) turn to a fine
powder on exposure to air. B (of salts) come to the surface and crystallize. C (of
a surface) become covered with salt particles. efflorescence n. Efflorescent adj.
[latin flos flor- *flower]
Effluence n. 1 flowing out of light, electricity, etc. 2 that which flows out. [latin
fluo flux-flow]
Effluent —adj. Flowing out. —n. 1 sewage or industrial waste discharged into a
river etc. 2 stream or lake flowing from a larger body of water.
Effuse v. (-sing) 1 pour forth (liquid, light, etc.). 2 give out (ideas etc.). [latin
fundo fus-pour]
Egalitarian —adj. Of or advocating equal rights for all. —n. Egalitarian person.
egalitarianism n. [french égal *equal]
Egg-flip n. (also egg-nog) drink of alcoholic spirit with beaten egg, milk, etc.
Eggplant n. = *aubergine.
Eggshell —n. Shell of an egg. —adj. 1 (of china) thin and fragile. 2 (of paint)
with a slight gloss.
Ego n. (pl. -s) 1 the self; the part of the mind that reacts to reality and has a sense
of individuality. 2 self-esteem; self-conceit. [latin, = i]
Usage the senses of egoism and egotism overlap, but egoism alone is used as a
term in philosophy and psychology to mean self-interest (often contrasted with
altruism).
Egress n. Formal 1 exit. 2 right of going out. [latin egredior -gress-walk out]
Egyptology n. The study of the language, history, and culture of ancient egypt.
egyptologist n.
Eight adj. & n. 1 one more than seven. 2 symbol for this (8, viii, viii). 3 size etc.
Denoted by eight. 4 eight-oared rowing-boat or its crew. 5 eight o’clock. [old
english]
Eighteen adj. & n. 1 one more than seventeen. 2 symbol for this (18, xviii, xviii).
3 size etc. Denoted by eighteen. 4 (18) (of films) suitable only for persons of 18
years and over. eighteenth adj. & n. [old english]
Eightfold adj. & adv. 1 eight times as much or as many. 2 consisting of eight
parts.
Eighth adj. & n. 1 next after seventh. 2 one of eight equal parts of a thing.
eighthly adv.
Eightsome n. (in full eightsome reel) lively scottish dance for eight people.
Eighty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 eight times ten. 2 symbol for this (80, lxxx, lxxx). 3
(in pl.) Numbers from 80 to 89, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life.
eightieth adj. & n. [old english]
eightieth adj. & n. [old english]
Either —adj. & pron. 1 one or the other of two (either of you can go; you may
have either book). 2 each of two (houses on either side of the road). —adv. &
conj. 1 as one possibility (is either right or wrong). 2 as one choice or
alternative; which way you will (either come in or go out). 3 (with neg.) A any
more than the other (if you do not go, i shall not either). B moreover (there is no
time to lose, either). [old english]
Eject v. 1 expel, compel to leave. 2 (of a pilot etc.) Cause oneself to be propelled
from an aircraft as an emergency measure. 3 cause to be removed, drop out, or
pop up automatically from a gun, cassette-player, etc. 4 dispossess (a tenant). 5
emit, send out. ejection n. [latin ejicio eject-throw out]
Ejector seat n. Device in an aircraft for the emergency ejection of a pilot etc.
Eke v. (eking) eke out 1 supplement (income etc.). 2 make (a living) or support
Eke v. (eking) eke out 1 supplement (income etc.). 2 make (a living) or support
(an existence) with difficulty. [old english]
Elaborate —adj. 1 minutely worked out. 2 complicated. —v. (-ting) work out or
explain in detail. elaborately adv. Elaborateness n. Elaboration n. [latin: related
to *labour]
Elapse v. (-sing) (of time) pass by. [latin elabor elaps-slip away]
Elastic —adj. 1 able to resume its normal bulk or shape after contraction,
dilation, or distortion. 2 springy. 3 flexible, adaptable. —n. Elastic cord or
fabric, usu. Woven with strips of rubber. elastically adv. Elasticity n. [greek
elastikos propulsive]
Elasticated adj. (of fabric) made elastic by weaving with rubber thread.
Elate v. (-ting) (esp. As elated adj.) Make delighted or proud. elatedly adv.
Elation n. [latin effero elat-raise]
Elbow —n. 1 a joint between the forearm and the upper arm. B part of a sleeve
covering the elbow. 2 elbow-shaped bend etc. —v. (foll. By in, out, aside, etc.) 1
jostle or thrust (a person or oneself). 2 make (one’s way) thus. give a person the
elbow colloq. Dismiss or reject a person. [old english: related to ell, bow1]
Elder1 —attrib. Adj. (of persons, esp. When related) senior; of greater age. —n.
1 older of two persons (is my elder by ten years). 2 (in pl.) Persons of greater age
or venerable because of age. 3 official in the early christian church and some
modern churches. [old english: related to *old]
Elder2 n. Tree with white flowers and dark berries. [old english]
Elecampane n. Plant with bitter aromatic leaves and roots. [latin enula this plant,
campana of the fields]
Elective adj. 1 chosen by or derived from election. 2 (of a body) having the
power to elect. 3 optional, not urgently necessary.
Elector n. 1 person who has the right to vote in an election. 2 (elector) hist. (in
the holy roman empire) any of the german princes entitled to elect the emperor.
electoral adj.
Electric —adj. 1 of, worked by, or charged with electricity; producing or capable
of generating electricity. 2 causing or charged with excitement. —n. (in pl.)
Colloq. Electrical equipment. [greek elektron amber]
Electric eye n. Colloq. Photoelectric cell operating a relay when a beam of light
is broken.
Electric guitar n. Guitar with a solid body and built-in pick-up rather than a
soundbox.
Electrify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 charge with electricity. 2 convert to the use of electric
power. 3 cause sudden excitement (news was electrifying). electrification n.
Electrode n. Conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an electrolyte,
gas, vacuum, etc. [from *electric, greek hodos way]
Electroplate —v. (-ting) coat with a thin layer of chromium, silver, etc., by
electrolysis. —n. Electroplated articles.
Electrotherapy n. Treatment of diseases by use of electricity.
Elegiac —adj. 1 used for elegies. 2 mournful. —n. (in pl.) Elegiac verses.
elegiacally adv.
Elegy n. (pl. -ies) 1 sorrowful poem or song, esp. For the dead. 2 poem in elegiac
metre. [latin from greek]
Elementary particle n. Physics subatomic particle, esp. One not known to consist
of simpler ones.
of simpler ones.
Elephant n. (pl. Same or -s) largest living land animal, with a trunk and ivory
tusks. [greek elephas]
Elevate v. (-ting) 1 raise, lift up. 2 exalt in rank etc. 3 (usu. As elevated adj.)
Raise morally or intellectually. [latin levo lift]
Eleven adj. & n. 1 one more than ten. 2 symbol for this (11, xi, xi). 3 size etc.
Denoted by eleven. 4 team of eleven players at cricket, football, etc. 5 eleven
o’clock. [old english]
Eleven-plus n. Esp. Hist. Examination taken at age 11–12 to determine the type
of secondary school a child would enter.
Eleventh adj. & n. 1 next after tenth. 2 each of eleven equal parts of a thing.
eleventh hour last possible moment.
Elf n. (pl. Elves) mythological being, esp. One that is small and mischievous.
elfish adj. Elvish adj. [old english]
Elicit v. (-t-) draw out (facts, a response, etc.), esp. With difficulty. [latin elicio]
Eligible adj. 1 (often foll. By for) fit or entitled to be chosen (eligible for a
rebate). 2 desirable or suitable, esp. For marriage. eligibility n. [latin: related to
*elect]
Electroplate —v. (-ting) coat with a thin layer of chromium, silver, etc., by
electrolysis. —n. Electroplated articles.
electrolysis. —n. Electroplated articles.
Elegiac —adj. 1 used for elegies. 2 mournful. —n. (in pl.) Elegiac verses.
elegiacally adv.
Elegy n. (pl. -ies) 1 sorrowful poem or song, esp. For the dead. 2 poem in elegiac
metre. [latin from greek]
Elementary particle n. Physics subatomic particle, esp. One not known to consist
of simpler ones.
Elephant n. (pl. Same or -s) largest living land animal, with a trunk and ivory
tusks. [greek elephas]
Elevate v. (-ting) 1 raise, lift up. 2 exalt in rank etc. 3 (usu. As elevated adj.)
Raise morally or intellectually. [latin levo lift]
Elevation n. 1 a elevating or being elevated. B angle with the horizontal. C
height above sea level etc. D high position. 2 drawing or diagram showing one
side of a building.
Eleven adj. & n. 1 one more than ten. 2 symbol for this (11, xi, xi). 3 size etc.
Denoted by eleven. 4 team of eleven players at cricket, football, etc. 5 eleven
o’clock. [old english]
Eleven-plus n. Esp. Hist. Examination taken at age 11–12 to determine the type
of secondary school a child would enter.
Eleventh adj. & n. 1 next after tenth. 2 each of eleven equal parts of a thing.
eleventh hour last possible moment.
Elf n. (pl. Elves) mythological being, esp. One that is small and mischievous.
elfish adj. Elvish adj. [old english]
Elicit v. (-t-) draw out (facts, a response, etc.), esp. With difficulty. [latin elicio]
Eligible adj. 1 (often foll. By for) fit or entitled to be chosen (eligible for a
rebate). 2 desirable or suitable, esp. For marriage. eligibility n. [latin: related to
*elect]
Eliminate v. (-ting) 1 remove, get rid of. 2 exclude from consideration. 3 exclude
from a further stage of a competition through defeat etc. elimination n.
Eliminator n. [latin limen limin-threshold] (-ting) 1 remove, get rid of. 2 exclude
from consideration. 3 exclude from a further stage of a competition through
defeat etc. elimination n. Eliminator n. [latin limen limin-threshold]
Élite n. 1 (prec. By the) the best (of a group). 2 select group or class. 3 a size of
letters in typewriting (12 per inch). [french: related to *elect]
Elizabethan —adj. Of the time of queen elizabeth i or ii. —n. Person of this
time.
Elk n. (pl. Same or -s) large deer of northern parts of europe, n. America, and
asia. [old english]
Ellipse n. Regular oval, resulting when a cone is cut obliquely by a plane. [greek
elleipsis deficit]
Ellipsoid n. Solid of which all the plane sections through one axis are circles and
all the other plane sections are ellipses.
Elm n. 1 tree with rough serrated leaves. 2 its wood. [old english]
Elocution n. Art of clear and expressive speech. [latin loquor speak]
Elucidate v. (-ting) throw light on; explain. elucidation n. Elucidatory adj. [latin:
related to *lucid]
Elusive adj. 1 difficult to find or catch. 2 difficult to remember. 3 avoiding the
point raised. elusiveness n.
Elysium n. 1 (also elysian fields) (in greek mythology) abode of the blessed after
death. 2 place of ideal happiness. elysian adj. [latin from greek]
Embargo —n. (pl. -es) 1 order forbidding foreign ships to enter, or any ships to
leave, a country’s ports. 2 official suspension of an activity. —v. (-es, -ed) place
under embargo. [spanish: related to *bar1]
Ember n. (usu. In pl.) Small piece of glowing coal etc. In a dying fire. [old
english]
Ember days n.pl. Days of fasting and prayer in the christian church, associated
with ordinations. [old english]
Embody v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make (an idea etc.) Actual or discernible. 2 (of a thing)
be a tangible expression of. 3 include, comprise. embodiment n.
Embrace —v. (-cing) 1 a hold closely in the arms. B (absol., of two people)
Embrace —v. (-cing) 1 a hold closely in the arms. B (absol., of two people)
embrace each other. 2 clasp, enclose. 3 accept eagerly (an offer etc.). 4 adopt (a
cause, idea, etc.). 5 include, comprise. 6 take in with the eye or mind. —n. Act of
embracing, clasp. embraceable adj. [latin: related to *brace]
Embrocation n. Liquid for rubbing on the body to relieve muscular pain. [greek
embrokhe lotion]
Emerald —n. 1 bright-green gem. 2 colour of this. —adj. Bright green. [greek
smaragdos]
Emerald green adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) bright green.
Emerge v. (-ging) 1 come up or out into view. 2 (of facts etc.) Become known,
be revealed. 3 become recognized or prominent. 4 (of a question, difficulty, etc.)
Become apparent. emergence n. Emergent adj. [latin: related to *merge]
Emergency n. (pl. -ies) 1 sudden state of danger etc., requiring immediate action.
2 a condition requiring immediate treatment. B patient with this. 3 (attrib.) For
use in an emergency. [medieval latin: related to *emerge]
Emeritus adj. Retired but retaining one’s title as an honour (emeritus professor).
[latin mereor earn]
Emery n. Coarse corundum for polishing metal etc. [greek smeris polishing
powder]
Emetic —adj. That causes vomiting. —n. Emetic medicine. [greek emeo vomit]
Éminence grise n. (pl. Éminences grises pronunc. Same) person who exercises
power or influence without holding office. [french, = grey cardinal (orig. Of
richelieu’s secretary)]
Emir n. (also amir) title of various muslim rulers. [french from arabic ‘amir]
Emit v. (-tt-) give or send out (heat, light, a smell, sound, etc.); discharge.
emission n. [latin emitto emiss-]
Emollient —adj. That softens or soothes the skin, feelings, etc. —n. Emollient
substance. [latin mollis soft]
Usage although the senses of emotive and emotional overlap, emotive is more
common in the sense ‘arousing emotion’, as in an emotive issue, and is not used
at all in sense 2 of emotional.
Empathize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (usu. Foll. By with) exercise empathy.
Employ —v. 1 use the services of (a person) in return for payment. 2 use (a
thing, time, energy, etc.) To good effect. 3 keep (a person) occupied. —n. (in
phr. In the employ of) employed by. employable adj. Employer n. [latin implicor
be involved]
Employee n. Person employed for wages.
Empty —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 containing nothing. 2 (of a house etc.) Unoccupied or
unfurnished. 3 (of a vehicle etc.) Without passengers etc. 4 a hollow, insincere
(empty threats). B without purpose (an empty existence). C vacuous (an empty
head). 5 colloq. Hungry. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 remove the contents of. 2 (often foll.
By into) transfer (contents). 3 become empty. 4 (of a river) discharge itself. —n.
(pl. -ies) colloq. Empty bottle etc. emptiness n. [old english]
Empyrean —n. The highest heaven, as the sphere of fire or abode of god. —adj.
Of the empyrean. empyreal adj. [greek pur fire]
En-1 prefix (also em-before b, p) forming verbs, = *in-2: 1 from nouns, meaning
‘put into or on’ (engulf; entrust; embed). 2 from nouns or adjectives, meaning
‘bring into the condition of’ (enslave); often with the suffix -en (enlighten). 3
from verbs: a in the sense ‘in, into, on’ (enfold). B as an intensifier (entangle).
[french en-, latin in-]
-en suffix forming verbs: 1 from adjectives, usu. Meaning ‘make or become so
or more so’ (deepen; moisten). 2 from nouns (happen; strengthen). [old english]
Enact v. 1 a ordain, decree. B make (a bill etc.) Law. 2 play (a part on stage or in
life). enactive adj.
Enamor v. (brit. Enamour) (usu. In passive; foll. By of) inspire with love or
delight. [french amour love]
delight. [french amour love]
Enamour v. (us enamor) (usu. In passive; foll. By of) inspire with love or
delight. [french amour love]
Encaustic —adj. (of painting etc.) Using pigments mixed with hot wax, which
are burned in as an inlay. —n. 1 art of encaustic painting. 2 product of this.
[greek: related to *caustic]
Encephalogram n. = *electroencephalogram.
Encephalograph n. = *electroencephalograph.
Enclave n. Territory of one state surrounded by that of another. [latin clavis key]
Enclose v. (-sing) 1 a surround with a wall, fence, etc. B shut in. 2 put in a
receptacle (esp. In an envelope with a letter). 3 (usu. As enclosed adj.) Seclude
(a religious community) from the outside world. [latin: related to *include]
Encompass v. 1 contain; include. 2 surround.
Encore —n. 1 audience’s demand for the repetition of an item, or for a further
item. 2 such an item. —v. (-ring) 1 call for the repetition of (an item). 2 call back
(a performer) for this. —int. Again, once more. [french, = once again]
Encrust v. 1 cover with or form a crust. 2 coat with a hard casing or deposit,
sometimes for decoration. [french: related to *en-1]
Encyclical —adj. For wide circulation. —n. Papal encyclical letter. [greek:
related to *cycle]
End —n. 1 a extreme limit. B extremity (to the ends of the earth). 2 extreme part
or surface of a thing (strip of wood with a nail in one end). 3 a finish (no end to
his misery). B latter part. C death, destruction (met an untimely end). D result. 4
goal (will do anything to achieve his ends). 5 remnant (cigarette-end). 6 (prec.
Endeavor (brit. Endeavour) —v. (foll. By to + infin.) Try earnestly. —n. Earnest
attempt. [from *en-1, french devoir owe]
Endeavour (us endeavor) —v. (foll. By to + infin.) Try earnestly. —n. Earnest
attempt. [from *en-1, french devoir owe]
Endemic adj. (often foll. By to) regularly or only found among a particular
people or in a particular region. endemically adv. [greek en-in, demos the
people]
Ending n. 1 end or final part, esp. Of a story. 2 inflected final part of a word.
Endocrine adj. (of a gland) secreting directly into the blood. [greek krino sift]
Endpaper n. Either of the blank leaves of paper at the beginning and end of a
book.
End-product n. Final product of manufacture etc.
Endue v. (also indue) (-dues, -dued, -duing) (foll. By with) provide (a person)
with (qualities etc.). [latin induo put on clothes]
Endways adv. (also endwise) 1 with end uppermost or foremost. 2 end to end.
Enema n. 1 introduction of fluid etc. Into the rectum, esp. To flush out its
contents. 2 fluid etc. Used for this. [greek hiemi send]
Enemy n. (pl. -ies) 1 person actively hostile to another. 2 a (often attrib.) Hostile
nation or army. B member of this. 3 adversary or opponent (enemy of progress).
[latin: related to *in-2, amicus friend]
Energize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 give energy to. 2 provide (a device) with
energy for operation.
Energy n. (pl. -ies) 1 capacity for activity, force, vigour. 2 capacity of matter or
radiation to do work. [greek ergon work]
Enfilade —n. Gunfire directed along a line from end to end. —v. (-ding) direct
an enfilade at. [french: related to *file1]
Engorged adj. 1 crammed full. 2 congested with fluid, esp. Blood. [french:
related to en-1, gorge]
Engraft v. (also ingraft) 1 bot. (usu. Foll. By into, on) graft. 2 implant. 3 (usu.
Foll. By into) incorporate.
Engrave v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. By on) carve (a text or design) on a hard surface.
2 inscribe (a surface) thus. 3 (often foll. By on) impress deeply (on a person’s
memory). engraver n. [from *grave3]
Engross v. 1 absorb the attention of; occupy fully. 2 write out in larger letters or
in legal form. engrossment n. [anglo-french: related to *en-1]
Engulf v. Flow over and swamp; overwhelm. engulfment n.
Enjoin v. 1 command or order. 2 (often foll. By on) impose (an action). 3 (usu.
Foll. By from) law prohibit by injunction (from doing a thing). [latin injungo
attach]
Enjoy v. 1 take pleasure in. 2 have the use or benefit of. 3 experience (enjoy
good health). enjoy oneself experience pleasure. enjoyment n. [french]
Enlarge v. (-ging) 1 make or become larger or wider. 2 (often foll. By on, upon)
describe in greater detail. 3 reproduce a photograph on a larger scale.
enlargement n. [french: related to *large]
Enlighten v. 1 (often foll. By on) inform (about a subject). 2 (as enlightened adj.)
Progressive.
Enrich v. 1 make rich or richer. 2 make more nutritive. 3 increase the strength,
wealth, value, or contents of. enrichment n. [french: related to *en-1]
Enrol v. (us enroll) (-ll-) 1 enlist. 2 a write the name of (a person) on a list. B
incorporate as a member. C enrol oneself, esp. For a course of study. enrolment
n. [french: related to *en-1]
Enroll v. (brit. Enrol) (-ll-) 1 enlist. 2 a write the name of (a person) on a list. B
incorporate as a member. C enrol oneself, esp. For a course of study. enrolment
n. [french: related to *en-1]
Ensemble n. 1 a thing viewed as the sum of its parts. B general effect of this. 2
set of clothes worn together. 3 group of performers working together. 4 mus.
Concerted passage for an ensemble. [latin simul at the same time]
Ensign n. 1 banner or flag, esp. The military or naval flag of a nation. 2 standard-
bearer. 3 a hist. Lowest commissioned infantry officer. B us lowest
commissioned naval officer. [french: related to *insignia]
Ensue v. (-sues, -sued, -suing) happen later or as a result. [latin sequor follow]
En suite —adv. Forming a single unit (bedroom with bathroom en suite). —adj.
1 forming a single unit (en suite bathroom). 2 with a bathroom attached (seven
en suite bedrooms). [french, = in sequence]
Ensure v. (-ring) 1 make certain. 2 (usu. Foll. By against) make safe (ensure
against risks). ensurer n. [anglo-french: related to *assure]
against risks). ensurer n. [anglo-french: related to *assure]
Entente cordiale n. Entente, esp. Between britain and france from 1904.
Envelope n. 1 folded paper container for a letter etc. 2 wrapper, covering. 3 gas
container of a balloon or airship.
Environs n.pl. District round a town etc.
Envy —n. (pl. -ies) 1 discontent aroused by another’s better fortune etc. 2 object
of this feeling. —v. (-ies, -ied) feel envy of (a person etc.). [latin invidia, from
video see]
Eocene geol. —adj. Of the second epoch of the tertiary period. —n. This epoch.
[greek eos dawn, kainos new]
Eolian harp n. (brit. Aeolian) stringed instrument or toy sounding when the wind
passes through it. [latin aeolus wind-god, from greek]
Eolithic adj. Of the period preceding the palaeolithic age. [greek eos dawn, lithos
stone]
stone]
Épée n. Sharp-pointed sword, used (with the end blunted) in fencing. [french:
related to *spathe]
Ephedrine n. Alkaloid drug used to relieve asthma, etc. [ephedra, genus of plants
yielding it]
Ephemeral adj. Lasting or of use for only a short time; transitory. [greek: related
to *epi-, hemera day]
Epi-prefix 1 upon. 2 above. 3 in addition. [greek]
Epic —n. 1 long poem narrating the adventures or deeds of one or more heroic
or legendary figures. 2 book or film based on an epic narrative. —adj. 1 of or
like an epic. 2 grand, heroic. [greek epos song]
Epicene —adj. 1 of, for, denoting, or used by both sexes. 2 having characteristics
of both sexes or of neither sex. —n. Epicene person. [greek koinos common]
Epicure n. Person with refined tastes, esp. In food and drink. epicurism n.
[medieval latin: related to *epicurean]
Epidermis n. Outer layer of the skin. epidermal adj. [greek derma skin]
Epidural —adj. (of an anaesthetic) introduced into the space around the dura
mater of the spinal cord. —n. Epidural anaesthetic. [from epi-, dura mater]
Episiotomy n. (pl. -ies) surgical cut made at the vaginal opening during
childbirth, to aid delivery. [greek epision pubic region]
Epistle n. 1 joc. Letter. 2 (epistle) any of the apostles’ letters in the new
testament. 3 poem etc. In the form of a letter. [greek epistole from stello send]
Epithelium n. (pl. -s or -lia) tissue forming the outer layer of the body and lining
many hollow structures. epithelial adj. [greek thele teat]
Epoxy adj. Relating to or derived from a compound with one oxygen atom and
two carbon atoms bonded in a triangle. [from epi-, oxygen]
Equable adj. 1 not varying. 2 moderate (equable climate). 3 (of a person) not
easily disturbed. equably adv. [related to *equal]
Equal —adj. 1 (often foll. By to, with) the same in quantity, quality, size, degree,
level, etc. 2 evenly balanced (an equal contest). 3 having the same rights or
status (human beings are essentially equal). 4 uniform in application or effect. —
n. Person or thing equal to another, esp. In rank or quality. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 be
equal to. 2 achieve something that is equal to. be equal to have the ability or
resources for. [latin aequalis]
Equalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make or become equal. 2 reach one’s
opponent’s score. equalization n.
Equate v. (-ting) 1 (usu. Foll. By to, with) regard as equal or equivalent. 2 (foll.
By with) be equal or equivalent to. equatable adj. [latin aequo aequat-: related to
*equal]
Equator n. 1 imaginary line round the earth or other body, equidistant from the
poles. 2 = celestial equator. [medieval latin: related to equate]
Equerry n. (pl. -ies) officer attending the british royal family. [french esquierie
stable]
Equiangular adj. Having equal angles.
Equinoctial —adj. Happening at or near the time of an equinox. —n. (in full
equinoctial line) = *celestial equator. [latin: related to *equinox]
Equinox n. Time or date (twice each year) at which the sun crosses the celestial
equator, when day and night are of equal length. [latin nox noctis night]
Enthral v. (us enthrall) (-ll-) captivate, please greatly. enthralment n. [from en-1,
thrall]
Enthrall v. (brit. Enthral) (-ll-) captivate, please greatly. enthralment n. [from en-
1, thrall]
Entirety n. (pl. -ies) 1 completeness. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) sum total. in its entirety
in its complete form.
Entitle v. (-ling) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) give (a person) a just claim or right. 2 give a
title to. entitlement n. [latin: related to *title]
Entity n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing with distinct existence. 2 thing’s existence in itself.
[latin ens ent-being]
Entrant n. Person who enters (an examination, profession, etc.). [french: related
to *enter]
Entrée n. 1 dish served between the fish and meat courses. 2 us main dish. 3
right of admission. [french]
Entrench v. 1 a establish firmly (in a position, office, etc.). B (as entrenched adj.)
(of an attitude etc.) Not easily modified. 2 surround with a trench as a
fortification. entrenchment n.
Entrust v. (also intrust) 1 (foll. By to) give (a person or thing) into the care of a
person. 2 (foll. By with) assign responsibility for (a person or thing) to (a person)
(entrusted him with my camera).
Equip v. (-pp-) supply with what is needed. [old norse skipa to man a ship]
Equipage n. 1 archaic a requisites. B outfit. 2 hist. Carriage and horses with
attendants. [french: related to *equip]
Equitable adj. 1 fair, just. 2 law valid in equity as distinct from law. equitably
adv. [french: related to *equity]
Equivalent —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) equal in value, amount, importance, etc. 2
corresponding. 3 having the same meaning or result. —n. Equivalent thing,
amount, etc. equivalence n. [latin: related to *value]
Er symb. Erbium.
-er1 suffix forming nouns from nouns, adjectives, and verbs, denoting: 1 person,
animal, or thing that does (cobbler; poker). 2 person or thing that is (foreigner;
four-wheeler). 3 person concerned with (hatter; geographer). 4 person from
(villager; sixth-former). [old english]
-er2 suffix forming the comparative of adjectives (wider) and adverbs (faster).
[old english]
-er3 suffix used in a slang distortion of the word (rugger). [probably an extension
of *-er1]
Erase v. (-sing) 1 rub out; obliterate. 2 remove all traces of. 3 remove recorded
material from (magnetic tape or disk). [latin rado ras-scrape]
Eraser n. Thing that erases, esp. A piece of rubber etc. For removing pencil etc.
Marks.
Ere prep. & conj. Poet. Or archaic before (of time) (ere noon; ere they come).
[old english]
Erect —adj. 1 upright, vertical. 2 (of the penis etc.) Enlarged and rigid, esp. In
sexual excitement. 3 (of hair) bristling. —v. 1 set up; build. 2 establish. erection
n. Erectly adv. Erectness n. [latin erigere erect-set up]
Erectile adj. That can become erect (esp. Of body tissue in sexual excitement).
[french: related to *erect]
Ergonomics n. The study of the relationship between people and their working
environment. ergonomic adj. [greek ergon work]
Ermine n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 stoat, esp. When white in winter. 2 its white fur,
used to trim robes etc. [french]
Erode v. (-ding) wear away, destroy gradually. erosion n. Erosive adj. [latin rodo
ros-gnaw]
Erogenous adj. (of a part of the body) particularly sensitive to sexual stimulation.
[greek (as *erotic), *-genous]
Erotic adj. Of or causing sexual love, esp. Tending to arouse sexual desire or
excitement. erotically adv. [greek eros sexual love]
Erotica n.pl. Erotic literature or art.
Error n. 1 mistake. 2 condition of being morally wrong (led into error). 3 degree
of inaccuracy in a calculation etc. (2% error). [latin: related to *err]
Erse —adj. Irish or highland gaelic. —n. The gaelic language. [early scots form
of *irish]
Erupt v. 1 break out suddenly or dramatically. 2 (of a volcano) eject lava etc. 3
(of a rash etc.) Appear on the skin. eruption n. Eruptive adj. [latin erumpo erupt-
break out]
-ery suffix (also -ry) forming nouns denoting: 1 class or kind (greenery;
machinery; citizenry). 2 employment; state or condition (dentistry; slavery). 3
place of work or cultivation or breeding (brewery; rookery). 4 behaviour
(mimicry). 5 often derog. All that has to do with (popery). [french -erie]
Erysipelas n. Disease causing fever and a deep red inflammation of the skin.
[latin from greek]
Es symb. Einsteinium.
Escalope n. Thin slice of boneless meat, esp. Veal. [french, originally = shell]
Escape —v. (-ping) 1 (often foll. By from) get free of restriction or control. 2 (of
gas etc.) Leak. 3 succeed in avoiding punishment etc. 4 get free of (a person,
grasp, etc.). 5 avoid (a commitment, danger, etc.). 6 elude the notice or memory
of (nothing escapes you; name escaped me). 7 (of words etc.) Issue unawares
from (a person etc.). —n. 1 act or instance of escaping. 2 means of escaping
(often attrib.: escape hatch). 3 leakage of gas etc. 4 temporary relief from
unpleasant reality. [latin cappa cloak]
Escapement n. Part of a clock etc. That connects and regulates the motive power.
[french: related to *escape]
Escapism n. Pursuit of distraction and relief from reality. escapist n. & adj.
Escarpment n. Long steep slope at the edge of a plateau etc. [french from italian:
related to *scarp]
Escheat hist. —n. 1 reversion of property to the state etc. In the absence of legal
heirs. 2 property so affected. —v. 1 hand over (property) as an escheat. 2
confiscate. 3 revert by escheat. [latin cado fall]
Escudo n. (pl. -s) chief monetary unit of portugal. [spanish and portuguese from
latin scutum shield]
Eskimo —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 member of a people inhabiting n. Canada, alaska,
greenland, and e. Siberia. 2 language of this people. —adj. Of eskimos or their
language. [algonquian]
Esophagus n. (brit. Oesophagus) (pl. -gi or -guses) passage from the mouth to
the stomach; gullet. [greek]
Esoteric adj. Intelligible only to those with special knowledge. esoterically adv.
Esoteric adj. Intelligible only to those with special knowledge. esoterically adv.
[greek eso within]
Espadrille n. Light canvas shoe with a plaited fibre sole. [provençal: related to
*esparto]
Espalier n. 1 lattice-work along which the branches of a tree or shrub are trained.
2 tree or shrub so trained. [french from italian]
Esparto n. (pl. -s) (in full esparto grass) coarse grass of spain and n. Africa, used
to make good-quality paper etc. [greek sparton rope]
Esperanto n. An artificial language designed for universal use. [latin spero hope]
Esplanade n. 1 long open level area for walking on, esp. Beside the sea. 2 level
space separating a fortress from a town. [latin planus level]
space separating a fortress from a town. [latin planus level]
Extend v. 1 lengthen or make larger in space or time. 2 stretch or lay out at full
length. 3 (foll. By to, over) reach or be or make continuous over a specified area.
4 (foll. By to) have a specified scope (permit does not extend to camping). 5
offer or accord (an invitation, hospitality, kindness, etc.). 6 (usu. Refl. Or in
passive) tax the powers of (an athlete, horse, etc.). extendible adj. (also
passive) tax the powers of (an athlete, horse, etc.). extendible adj. (also
extensible). [latin extendo -tens-: related to *tend1]
Extended-play adj. (of a gramophone record) playing for somewhat longer than
most singles.
Extent n. 1 space over which a thing extends. 2 range, scope, degree. [anglo-
french: related to *extend]
Exterior —adj. 1 of or on the outer side. 2 coming from outside. —n. 1 outward
aspect or surface of a building etc. 2 outward demeanour. 3 outdoor scene in
filming. [latin]
Exterminate v. (-ting) destroy utterly (esp. A living thing). extermination n.
Exterminator n. [latin: related to *terminal]
Externalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) give or attribute external existence to.
externalization n.
Extinct adj. 1 that has died out. 2 a no longer burning. B (of a volcano) that no
longer erupts. 3 obsolete. [latin ex(s)tinguo -stinct-quench]
Extra-comb. Form 1 outside, beyond. 2 beyond the scope of. [latin extra outside]
Extra-comb. Form 1 outside, beyond. 2 beyond the scope of. [latin extra outside]
Extra cover n. Cricket 1 fielding position on a line between cover-point and mid-
off, but beyond these. 2 fielder at this position.
Extract —v. 1 remove or take out, esp. By effort or force. 2 obtain (money, an
admission, etc.) Against a person’s will. 3 obtain (a natural resource) from the
earth. 4 select or reproduce for quotation or performance. 5 obtain (juice etc.) By
pressure, distillation, etc. 6 derive (pleasure etc.). 7 find (the root of a number).
—n. 1 short passage from a book etc. 2 preparation containing a concentrated
constituent of a substance (malt extract). [latin traho tract-draw]
Extraneous adj. 1 of external origin. 2 (often foll. By to) a separate from the
object to which it is attached etc. B irrelevant, unrelated. [latin extraneus]
Extrapolate v. (-ting) (also absol.) Calculate approximately from known data etc.
(others which lie outside the range of those known). extrapolation n. [from extra-
, interpolate]
Extrasensory adj. Derived by means other than the known senses, e.g. By
telepathy.
Extraterrestrial —adj. Outside the earth or its atmosphere. —n. (in science
fiction) being from outer space.
Extreme unction n. Last rites in the roman catholic and orthodox churches.
Extremity n. (pl. -ies) 1 extreme point; very end. 2 (in pl.) The hands and feet. 3
condition of extreme adversity. [latin: related to *extreme]
Extricate v. (-ting) (often foll. By from) free or disentangle from a difficulty etc.
extricable adj. Extrication n. [latin tricae perplexities]
Extrinsic adj. 1 not inherent or intrinsic. 2 (often foll. By to) extraneous; not
belonging. extrinsically adv. [latin extrinsecus outwardly]
Extrude v. (-ding) 1 (foll. By from) thrust or force out. 2 shape metal, plastics,
etc. By forcing them through a die. extrusion n. Extrusive adj. [latin extrudo -
trus-thrust out]
Exuberant adj. 1 lively, high-spirited. 2 (of a plant etc.) Prolific. 3 (of feelings
etc.) Abounding. exuberance n. Exuberantly adv. [latin uber fertile]
Exude v. (-ding) 1 ooze out. 2 emit (a smell). 3 display (an emotion etc.) Freely.
exudation n. [latin sudo sweat]
Eye —n. 1 organ of sight. 2 eye characterized by the colour of the iris (has blue
eyes). 3 region round the eye (eyes swollen from weeping). 4 (in sing. Or pl.)
Sight. 5 particular visual ability (a straight eye). 6 thing like an eye, esp.: a a spot
on a peacock’s tail. B a leaf bud of a potato. 7 calm region at the centre of a
hurricane etc. 8 hole of a needle. —v. (eyes, eyed, eyeing or eying) (often foll.
By up) watch or observe closely, esp. Admiringly or with suspicion. all eyes
watching intently. An eye for an eye retaliation in kind. Have an eye for be
discerning about. Have one’s eye on wish or plan to procure. Have eyes for be
interested in; wish to acquire. Keep an eye on 1 watch. 2 look after. Keep an eye
open (or out) (often foll. By for) watch carefully. Keep one’s eyes open (or
peeled or skinned) watch out; be on the alert. Make eyes (or sheep’s eyes) (foll.
By at) look amorously or flirtatiously at. One in the eye (foll. By for)
disappointment or setback. See eye to eye (often foll. By with) agree. Set eyes
on see. Up to the (or one’s) eyes in deeply engaged or involved in. With one’s
eyes shut (or closed) with little effort. With an eye to with a view to. [old
english]
Eyeball —n. Ball of the eye within the lids and socket. —v. Us slang look or
stare (at).
Eyebrow n. Line of hair on the ridge above the eye-socket. raise one’s eyebrows
show surprise, disbelief, or disapproval.
Eyeful n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 (esp. In phr. Get an eyeful (of)) good look; as much as
the eye can take in. 2 visually striking person or thing. 3 thing thrown or blown
into the eye.
Eyelet n. 1 small hole for string or rope etc. To pass through. 2 metal ring
strengthening this. [french oillet from latin oculus]
Eyepiece n. Lens or lenses to which the eye is applied at the end of an optical
instrument.
Eye-tooth n. Canine tooth in the upper jaw just under the eye.
Eyewitness n. Person who saw a thing happen and can tell of it.
Eyrie n. 1 nest of a bird of prey, esp. An eagle, built high up. 2 house etc.
Perched high up. [french aire lair, from latin agrum piece of ground]
Espresso n. (also expresso) (pl. -s) strong black coffee made under steam
pressure. [italian, = pressed out]
Esprit n. Sprightliness, wit. esprit de corps devotion to and pride in one’s group.
[french: related to *spirit]
-esque suffix forming adjectives meaning ‘in the style of’ or ‘resembling’
(kafkaesque). [french from latin -iscus]
Esquire n. 1 (usu. As abbr. Esq.) Title added to a man’s surname when no other
title is used, esp. As a form of address for letters. 2 archaic = *squire. [french
from latin scutum shield]
-ess suffix forming nouns denoting females (actress; lioness). [greek -issa]
Essay —n. 1 short piece of writing on a given subject. 2 (often foll. By at, in)
formal attempt. —v. Attempt. essayist n. [latin exigo weigh: cf. *assay]
Essential oil n. Volatile oil derived from a plant etc. With its characteristic
odour.
-est suffix forming the superlative of adjectives (widest; nicest; happiest) and
adverbs (soonest). [old english]
Estate n. 1 property consisting of much land and usu. A large house. 2 modern
residential or industrial area with an integrated design or purpose. 3 person’s
assets and liabilities, esp. At death. 4 property where rubber, tea, grapes, etc., are
cultivated. 5 order or class forming (or regarded as) part of the body politic. 6
archaic or literary state or position in life (the estate of holy matrimony). the
three estates lords spiritual (the heads of the church), lords temporal (the
peerage), and the commons. [french estat, from latin sto stat-stand]
Estate agent n. Person whose business is the sale or lease of buildings and land
on behalf of others.
Estate car n. Car with a continuous area for rear passengers and luggage.
Usage estate duty was replaced in 1975 by capital transfer tax and in 1986 by
inheritance tax.
Esteem —v. 1 (usu. In passive) have a high regard for. 2 formal consider
(esteemed it an honour). —n. High regard; favour. [latin: related to *estimate]
Estimate —n. 1 approximate judgement, esp. Of cost, value, size, etc. 2
statement of approximate charge for work to be undertaken. —v. (-ting) (also
absol.) 1 form an estimate or opinion of. 2 (foll. By that) make a rough
calculation. 3 (often foll. By at) form an estimate; adjudge. estimator n. [latin
aestimo fix the price of]
Estrange v. (-ging) 1 (usu. In passive; often foll. By from) alienate; make hostile
or indifferent. 2 (as estranged adj.) (of a husband or wife) no longer living with
his or her spouse. estrangement n. [latin: related to *strange]
Estuary n. (pl. -ies) wide tidal river mouth. [latin aestus tide]
Et cetera (also etcetera) —adv. 1 and the rest. 2 and so on. —n. (in pl.) The usual
extras. [latin]
Etching n. 1 print made from an etched plate. 2 art of producing these plates.
Eternal triangle n. Two people of one sex and one person of the other involved in
a complex emotional relationship.
Eternity n. (pl. -ies) 1 infinite (esp. Future) time. 2 endless life after death. 3
being eternal. 4 colloq. (often prec. By an) a very long time. [latin: related to
*eternal]
Ethanal n. = *acetaldehyde.
Ethic —n. Set of moral principles (the quaker ethic). —adj. = ethical. [greek:
related to ethos]
Ethics n.pl. (also treated as sing.) 1 moral philosophy. 2 a moral principles. B set
Ethics n.pl. (also treated as sing.) 1 moral philosophy. 2 a moral principles. B set
of these.
Ethyl n. (attrib.) A radical derived from ethane, present in alcohol and ether.
[german: related to *ether]
Etiolate v. (-ting) 1 make (a plant) pale by excluding light. 2 give a sickly colour
to (a person). etiolation n. [latin stipula straw]
Et seq. Abbr. (also et seqq.) And the following (pages etc.). [latin et sequentia]
Eu symb. Europium.
Eucalyptus n. (pl. -tuses or -ti) (also eucalypt pl. -s) 1 tall evergreen australasian
tree. 2 its oil, used as an antiseptic etc. [from *eu-, greek kaluptos covered]
Eulogize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) praise in speech or writing. eulogistic adj.
Eurasian —adj. 1 of mixed european and asian parentage. 2 of europe and asia.
—n. Eurasian person.
Eureka int. I have found it! (announcing a discovery etc.). [greek heureka]
Europium n. Metallic element of the lanthanide series. [from the name europe]
Eustachian tube n. Tube from the pharynx to the cavity of the middle ear.
[eustachio, name of an anatomist]
Ev abbr. Electronvolt.
Evade v. (-ding) 1 a escape from, avoid, esp. By guile or trickery. B avoid doing
(one’s duty etc.). C avoid answering (a question). 2 avoid paying (tax). [latin
evado escape]
Evaluate v. (-ting) 1 assess, appraise. 2 find or state the number or amount of.
evaluation n. [french: related to *value]
Evangelize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (also absol.) Preach the gospel to. 2
convert to christianity. evangelization n.
Evaporate v. (-ting) 1 turn from solid or liquid into vapour. 2 (cause to) lose
moisture as vapour. 3 (cause to) disappear. evaporable adj. Evaporation n. [latin:
related to *vapour]
Evasive adj. 1 seeking to evade. 2 not direct in one’s answers etc. evasively adv.
Evasiveness n.
Eve n. 1 evening or day before a festival etc. (christmas eve; eve of the funeral).
2 time just before an event (eve of the election). 3 archaic evening. [= *even2]
Even1 —adj. (evener, evenest) 1 level; smooth. 2 a uniform in quality; constant.
B equal in amount or value etc. C equally balanced. 3 (of a person’s temper etc.)
Equable, calm. 4 a (of a number) divisible by two without a remainder. B
bearing such a number (no parking on even dates). C not involving fractions;
exact (in even dozens). —adv. 1 inviting comparison of the assertion, negation,
etc., with an implied one that is less strong or remarkable (never even opened
[let alone read] the letter; ran even faster [not just as fast as before]). 2
introducing an extreme case (even you must realize it). —v. (often foll. By up)
make or become even. even now 1 now as well as before. 2 at this very moment.
Even so nevertheless. Even though despite the fact that. Get (or be) even with
have one’s revenge on. evenly adv. Evenness n. [old english]
Evening n. End part of the day, esp. From about 6 p.m. To bedtime. [old english:
related to *even2]
Evening primrose n. Plant with pale-yellow flowers that open in the evening.
Evening star n. Planet, esp. Venus, conspicuous in the west after sunset.
Even money n. Betting odds offering the gambler the chance of winning the
amount staked.
Usage the phrase in the event that is considered awkward by some people. It can
usually be avoided by rephrasing, e.g. In the event that it rains can be replaced
by in the event of rain.
Eventual adj. Occurring in due course, ultimate. eventually adv. [from *event]
Eventual adj. Occurring in due course, ultimate. eventually adv. [from *event]
Ever adv. 1 at all times; always (ever hopeful; ever after). 2 at any time (have
you ever smoked?; nothing ever happens). 3 (used for emphasis) in any way; at
all (how ever did you do it?). 4 (in comb.) Constantly (ever-present). 5 (foll. By
so, such) colloq. Very; very much (ever so easy; thanks ever so). did you ever?
Colloq. Did you ever hear or see the like? Ever since throughout the period
since. [old english]
Usage when ever is used with a question word for emphasis it is written
separately (see sense 2). When used with a relative pronoun or adverb to give it
indefinite or general force, ever is written as one word with the relative pronoun
or adverb, e.g. However it’s done, it’s difficult.
Evergreen —adj. Retaining green leaves all year round. —n. Evergreen plant.
Everlasting —adj. 1 lasting for ever or for a long time. 2 (of flowers) keeping
their shape and colour when dried. —n. 1 eternity. 2 everlasting flower.
Every adj. 1 each single (heard every word). 2 each at a specified interval in a
series (comes every four days). 3 all possible (every prospect of success). every
bit as colloq. (in comparisons) quite as. Every now and again (or then) from time
bit as colloq. (in comparisons) quite as. Every now and again (or then) from time
to time. Every other each second in a series (every other day). Every so often
occasionally. [old english: related to *ever, *each]
Evict v. Expel (a tenant etc.) By legal process. eviction n. [latin evinco evict-
conquer]
Evidence —n. 1 (often foll. By for, of) available facts, circumstances, etc.
Indicating whether or not a thing is true or valid. 2 law a information tending to
prove a fact or proposition. B statements or proofs admissible as testimony in a
lawcourt. —v. (-cing) be evidence of. in evidence conspicuous. Queen’s (or
king’s or state’s) evidence law evidence for the prosecution given by a
participant in the crime at issue. [latin video see]
Evil —adj. 1 morally bad; wicked. 2 harmful. 3 disagreeable (evil temper). —n.
1 evil thing. 2 wickedness. evilly adv. [old english]
Ex1 prep. (of goods) sold from (ex-works). [latin, = out of]
Ex-1 prefix (also before some consonants e-, ef-before f) 1 forming verbs
meaning: a out, forth (exclude; exit). B upward (extol). C thoroughly
(excruciate). D bring into a state (exasperate). E remove or free from (expatriate;
exonerate). 2 forming nouns from titles of office, status, etc., meaning ‘formerly’
(ex-president; ex-wife). [latin from ex out of]
Exact —adj. 1 accurate; correct in all details (exact description). 2 precise. —v.
1 demand and enforce payment of (money etc.). 2 demand; insist on; require.
exactness n. [latin exigo exact-require]
Exaggerate v. (-ting) 1 (also absol.) Make (a thing) seem larger or greater etc.
Than it really is. 2 increase beyond normal or due proportions (exaggerated
politeness). exaggeration n. [latin agger heap]
Exalt v. 1 raise in rank or power etc. 2 praise highly. 3 (usu. As exalted adj.)
Make lofty or noble (exalted aims; exalted style). exaltation n. [latin altus high]
Exam n. = *examination 3.
Examine v. (-ning) 1 inquire into the nature or condition etc. Of. 2 look closely
at. 3 test the proficiency of. 4 check the health of (a patient). 5 formally question
in court. examinee n. Examiner n. [latin examen tongue of a balance]
Ex cathedra adj. & adv. With full authority (esp. Of a papal pronouncement).
Ex cathedra adj. & adv. With full authority (esp. Of a papal pronouncement).
[latin, = from the chair]
Excellency n. (pl. -ies) (usu. Prec. By your, his, her, their) title used in
addressing or referring to certain high officials.
Except —v. Exclude from a general statement, condition, etc. —prep. (often foll.
By for) not including; other than (all failed except him; is all right except that it
is too long). —conj. Archaic unless (except he be born again). [latin excipio -
cept-take out]
Usage excepting should be used only after not and always; otherwise, except
should be used.
Excerpt —n. Short extract from a book, film, etc. —v. (also absol.) Take
excerpts from. excerption n. [latin carpo pluck]
Exchange —n. 1 giving of one thing and receiving of another in its place. 2
giving of money for its equivalent in the money of the same or another country.
3 centre where telephone connections are made. 4 place where merchants,
bankers, etc. Transact business. 5 a office where information is given or a
service provided. B employment office. 6 system of settling debts without the
use of money, by bills of exchange. 7 short conversation. —v. (-ging) 1 (often
foll. By for) give or receive (one thing) in place of another. 2 give and receive as
equivalents. 3 (often foll. By with) make an exchange. in exchange (often foll.
By for) as a thing exchanged (for). exchangeable adj. [french: related to
*change]
Usage with reference to sense 1, the functions of this department in the uk now
belong to the treasury, although the name formally survives, esp. In the title
chancellor of the exchequer.
Excise1 —n. 1 tax on goods produced or sold within the country of origin. 2 tax
on certain licences. —v. (-sing) 1 charge excise on. 2 force (a person) to pay
excise. [dutch excijs from romanic: related to latin *census tax]
Excise2 v. (-sing) 1 remove (a passage from a book etc.). 2 cut out (an organ
etc.) By surgery. excision n. [latin excido cut out]
Exclude v. (-ding) 1 keep out (a person or thing) from a place, group, privilege,
etc. 2 remove from consideration (no theory can be excluded). 3 make
impossible, preclude (excluded all doubt). exclusion n. [latin excludo -clus-shut
out]
Exclusive —adj. 1 excluding other things. 2 (predic.; foll. By of) not including;
except for. 3 tending to exclude others, esp. Socially. 4 high-class. 5 not
obtainable elsewhere or not published elsewhere. —n. Article etc. Published by
only one newspaper etc. exclusively adv. Exclusiveness n. Exclusivity n.
[medieval latin: related to *exclude]
Excoriate v. (-ting) 1 a remove skin from (a person etc.) By abrasion. B strip off
(skin). 2 censure severely. excoriation n. [latin corium hide]
Exculpate v. (-ting) formal (often foll. By from) free from blame; clear of a
charge. exculpation n. Exculpatory adj. [latin culpa blame]
Excursion n. Journey (usu. A day-trip) to a place and back, made for pleasure.
[latin excurro run out]
Excuse —v. (-sing) 1 try to lessen the blame attaching to (a person, act, or fault).
2 (of a fact) serve as a reason to judge (a person or act) less severely. 3 (often
foll. By from) release (a person) from a duty etc. 4 forgive (a fault or offence). 5
(foll. By for) forgive (a person) for (a fault). 6 refl. Leave with apologies. —n. 1
reason put forward to mitigate or justify an offence. 2 apology (made my
excuses). be excused be allowed to leave the room etc. Or be absent. Excuse me
polite preface to an interruption etc., or to disagreeing. excusable adj. [latin
causa accusation]
Execute v. (-ting) 1 carry out, perform (a plan, duty etc.). 2 carry out a design for
(a product of art or skill). 3 carry out a death sentence on. 4 make (a legal
instrument) valid by signing, sealing, etc. [latin sequor follow]
Exempt —adj. (often foll. By from) free from an obligation or liability etc.
Imposed on others. —v. (foll. By from) make exempt. exemption n. [latin eximo
-empt-take out]
Exert v. 1 bring to bear, use (a quality, force, influence, etc.). 2 refl. (often foll.
By for, or to + infin.) Use one’s efforts or endeavours; strive. exertion n. [latin
exsero exsert-put forth]
exsero exsert-put forth]
Exert v. 1 bring to bear, use (a quality, force, influence, etc.). 2 refl. (often foll.
By for, or to + infin.) Use one’s efforts or endeavours; strive. exertion n. [latin
exsero exsert-put forth]
Exeunt v. (as a stage direction) (actors) leave the stage. [latin: related to *exit]
Exfoliate v. (-ting) 1 come off in scales or layers. 2 throw off layers of bark.
exfoliation n. [latin folium leaf]
Ex gratia —adv. As a favour; not from (esp. Legal) obligation. —attrib. Adj.
Granted on this basis. [latin, = from favour]
Exhale v. (-ling) 1 breathe out. 2 give off or be given off in vapour. exhalation n.
[french from latin halo breathe]
Exhaust —v. 1 consume or use up the whole of. 2 (often as exhausted adj. Or
exhausting adj.) Tire out. 3 study or expound (a subject) completely. 4 (often
foll. By of) empty (a vessel etc.) Of its contents. —n. 1 waste gases etc. Expelled
from an engine after combustion. 2 (also exhaust-pipe) pipe or system by which
these are expelled. 3 process of expulsion of these gases. exhaustible adj. [latin
haurio haust-drain]
Exhibit —v. (-t-) 1 show or reveal, esp. Publicly. 2 display (a quality etc.). —n.
Item displayed, esp. In an exhibition or as evidence in a lawcourt. exhibitor n.
[latin exhibeo -hibit-]
Exiguous adj. Scanty, small. exiguity n. [latin]
Exile —n. 1 expulsion from one’s native land or (internal exile) native town etc.
2 long absence abroad. 3 exiled person. —v. (-ling) send into exile. [french from
latin]
Exit —n. 1 passage or door by which to leave a room etc. 2 act or right of going
out. 3 place where vehicles can leave a motorway etc. 4 actor’s departure from
the stage. —v. (-t-) 1 go out of a room etc. 2 leave the stage (also as a direction:
exit macbeth). [latin exeo exit-go out]
Exit poll n. Poll of people leaving a polling-station, asking how they voted.
Exocrine adj. (of a gland) secreting through a duct. [greek krino sift]
Exonerate v. (-ting) (often foll. By from) free or declare free from blame etc.
exoneration n. [latin onus oner-burden]
Exorbitant adj. (of a price, demand, etc.) Grossly excessive. [latin: related to
*orbit]
Exorcize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 expel (a supposed evil spirit) by prayers
etc. 2 (often foll. By of) free (a person or place) in this way. exorcism n. Exorcist
n. [greek horkos oath]
Expatiate v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By on, upon) speak or write at length. expatiation
n. Expatiatory adj. [latin spatium *space]
Expatriate —adj. 1 living abroad. 2 exiled. —n. Expatriate person. —v. (-ting) 1
Expatriate —adj. 1 living abroad. 2 exiled. —n. Expatriate person. —v. (-ting) 1
expel (a person) from his or her native country. 2 refl. Renounce one’s
citizenship. expatriation n. [latin patria native land]
Expectorate v. (-ting) (also absol.) Cough or spit out (phlegm etc.). expectoration
n. [latin pectus pector-breast]
Expedite v. (-ting) 1 assist the progress of. 2 accomplish (business) quickly.
[latin expedio from pes ped-foot]
Expendable adj. That may be sacrificed or dispensed with; not worth preserving
or saving.
Expert —adj. 1 (often foll. By at, in) having special knowledge of or skill in a
subject. 2 (attrib.) Involving or resulting from this (expert advice). —n. (often
foll. By at, in) person with special knowledge or skill. expertly adv. [latin:
related to *experience]
Expiate v. (-ting) pay the penalty for or make amends for (wrongdoing). expiable
adj. Expiation n. Expiatory adj. [latin expio: related to *pious]
Expire v. (-ring) 1 (of a period of time, validity, etc.) Come to an end. 2 cease to
be valid. 3 die. 4 (also absol.) Breathe out (air etc.). expiration n. Expiratory adj.
(in sense 4). [latin spirare breathe]
Explicable adj. That can be explained.
Explicate v. (-ting) 1 develop the meaning of (an idea etc.). 2 explain (esp. A
literary text). explication n. [latin explico -plicat-unfold]
Explicit adj. 1 expressly stated, not merely implied; stated in detail. 2 definite. 3
outspoken. explicitly adv. Explicitness n. [latin: related to *explicate]
Exploit —n. Daring feat. —v. 1 make use of (a resource etc.). 2 usu. Derog.
Utilize or take advantage of (esp. A person) for one’s own ends. exploitation n.
Exploitative adj. Exploiter n. [latin: related to *explicate]
Explore v. (-ring) 1 travel through (a country etc.) To learn about it. 2 inquire
into. 3 surgery examine (a part of the body) in detail. exploration n. Exploratory
adj. Explorer n. [latin exploro search out]
Export —v. Sell or send (goods or services) to another country. —n. 1 exporting.
2 a exported article or service. B (in pl.) Amount exported. exportation n.
Exporter n. [latin porto carry]
Ex post facto adj. & adv. With retrospective action or force. [latin, = in the light
of subsequent events]
Expressionism n. Style of painting, music, drama, etc., seeking to express
emotion rather than the external world. expressionist n. & adj.
Expressway n. Us motorway.
Expropriate v. (-ting) 1 take away (property) from its owner. 2 (foll. By from)
dispossess. expropriation n. Expropriator n. [latin proprium property]
Expunge v. (-ging) erase, remove (objectionable matter) from a book etc. [latin
expungo prick out (for deletion)]
F1 n. (also f) (pl. Fs or f’s) 1 sixth letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Fourth note of
the diatonic scale of c major.
F3 symb. Fluorine.
F abbr. (also f.) 1 female. 2 feminine. 3 following page etc. 4 mus. Forte. 5 folio.
6 focal length.
Fa var. Of *fah.
Fable n. 1 a fictional, esp. Supernatural, story. B moral tale, esp. With animals as
characters. 2 legendary tales collectively (in fable). 3 a lie. B thing only
supposed to exist. [latin fabula discourse]
Face —n. 1 front of the head from forehead to chin. 2 facial expression. 3
coolness, effrontery. 4 surface, esp.: a the side of a mountain etc. (north face). B
= *coalface. C geom. Each surface of a solid. D the façade of a building. E the
dial of a clock etc. 5 functional side of a tool etc. 6 = *typeface. 7 aspect
(unacceptable face of capitalism). —v. (-cing) 1 look or be positioned towards or
in a certain direction. 2 be opposite. 3 meet resolutely. 4 confront (faces us with
a problem). 5 a coat the surface of (a thing). B put a facing on (a garment). face
the music colloq. Take unpleasant consequences without flinching. Face up to
accept bravely. Have the face be shameless enough. In face (or the face) of
despite. Lose face be humiliated. On the face of it apparently. Put a bold (or
brave) face on it accept difficulty etc. Cheerfully. Save face avoid humiliation.
Set one’s face against oppose stubbornly. To a person’s face openly in a person’s
presence. [latin facies]
Face-flannel n. = *face-cloth.
Face to face adv. & adj. (also face-to-face when attrib.) (often foll. By with)
facing; confronting each other.
Facial —adj. Of or for the face. —n. Beauty treatment for the face. facially adv.
Facile adj. Usu. Derog. 1 easily achieved but of little value. 2 glib, fluent. [latin
facio do]
Facsimile n. Exact copy, esp. Of writing, printing, a picture, etc. [latin, = make
like]
Fact n. 1 thing that is known to exist or to be true. 2 (usu. In pl.) Item of verified
information. 3 truth, reality. 4 thing assumed as the basis for argument. before
(or after) the fact before (or after) the committing of a crime. In (or in point of)
fact 1 in reality. 2 in short. [latin factum from facio do]
Faction n. Small organized dissentient group within a larger one, esp. In politics.
factional adj. [latin: related to *fact]
-faction comb. Form forming nouns of action from verbs in -fy (satisfaction).
[latin -factio]
Factorial —n. Product of a number and all the whole numbers below it. —adj.
Of a factor or factorial.
Factotum n. (pl. -s) employee who does all kinds of work. [medieval latin:
related to fact, total]
Facts of life n.pl. (prec. By the) information about sexual functions and
practices.
Faddy adj. (-ier, -iest) having petty likes and dislikes. faddiness n.
Fade —v. (-ding) 1 lose or cause to lose colour, light, or sound; slowly diminish.
2 lose freshness or strength. 3 (foll. By in, out) cinematog. Etc. Cause (a picture
or sound) to appear or disappear, increase or decrease, gradually. —n. Action of
fading. fade away 1 colloq. Languish, grow thin. 2 die away; disappear. [french
fade dull]
Faeces n.pl. (us feces) waste matter discharged from the bowels. faecal adj.
[latin]
Fag1 —n. 1 colloq. Tedious task. 2 slang cigarette. 3 (at public schools) junior
boy who runs errands for a senior. —v. (-gg-) 1 (often foll. By out) colloq.
Exhaust. 2 (at public schools) act as a fag. [origin unknown]
Faggot n. (us fagot) 1 ball of seasoned chopped liver etc., baked or fried. 2
bundle of sticks etc. 3 slang offens. A unpleasant woman. B us male
homosexual. [french from italian]
Fagot n. (brit. Faggot) 1 ball of seasoned chopped liver etc., baked or fried. 2
bundle of sticks etc. 3 slang offens. A unpleasant woman. B us male
homosexual. [french from italian]
Fah n. (also fa) mus. Fourth note of a major scale. [latin famuli: see *gamut]
Fah n. (also fa) mus. Fourth note of a major scale. [latin famuli: see *gamut]
Fahrenheit adj. Of a scale of temperature on which water freezes at 32° and boils
at 212°. [fahrenheit, name of a physicist]
Faience n. Decorated and glazed earthenware and porcelain. [french from faenza
in italy]
Fain archaic —predic. Adj. (foll. By to + infin.) Willing or obliged to. —adv.
Gladly (esp. Would fain). [old english]
Faint —adj. 1 indistinct, pale, dim. 2 weak or giddy. 3 slight. 4 feeble; timid. 5
Faint —adj. 1 indistinct, pale, dim. 2 weak or giddy. 3 slight. 4 feeble; timid. 5
(also feint) (of paper) with inconspicuous ruled lines. —v. 1 lose consciousness.
2 become faint. —n. Act or state of fainting. faintly adv. Faintness n. [french:
related to *feign]
Fair1 —adj. 1 just, equitable; in accordance with the rules. 2 blond; light or pale.
3 a moderate in quality or amount. B satisfactory. 4 (of weather) fine; (of the
wind) favourable. 5 clean, clear (fair copy). 6 archaic beautiful. —adv. 1 in a just
manner. 2 exactly, completely. in a fair way to likely to. fairness n. [old english]
Fair dos n.pl. (esp. As int.) Colloq. Fair shares; fair treatment.
Fair isle n. (also attrib.) Multicoloured knitwear design characteristic of fair isle.
[fair isle in the shetlands]
Fairly adv. 1 in a fair manner. 2 moderately (fairly good). 3 quite, rather (fairly
narrow).
Fairy n. (pl. -ies) 1 (often attrib.) Small winged legendary being. 2 slang offens.
Male homosexual. [french: related to fay, -ery]
Fairy godmother n. Benefactress.
Fairy story n. (also fairy tale) 1 tale about fairies. 2 incredible story; lie.
Fait accompli n. Thing that has been done and is not capable of alteration.
[french]
Faithful adj. 1 showing faith. 2 (often foll. By to) loyal, trustworthy. 3 accurate
(faithful account). 4 (the faithful) the believers in a religion. faithfulness n.
Faithfully adv. In a faithful manner. yours faithfully formula for ending a formal
letter when it begins ‘dear sir’ or ‘dear madam’.
Fake —n. False or counterfeit thing or person. —adj. Counterfeit; not genuine.
—v. (-king) 1 make a fake or imitation of (faked my signature). 2 feign (a
feeling, illness, etc.). [german fegen sweep]
Fall —v. (past fell; past part. Fallen) 1 go or come down freely; descend. 2
(often foll. By over) come suddenly to the ground from loss of balance etc. 3 a
hang or slope down. B (foll. By into) (of a river etc.) Discharge into. 4 a sink
lower; decline, esp. In power, status, etc. B subside. 5 occur (falls on a monday).
6 (of the face) show dismay or disappointment. 7 yield to temptation. 8 take or
have a particular direction or place (his eye fell on me; accent falls on the first
syllable). 9 a find a place; be naturally divisible. B (foll. By under, within) be
classed among. 10 come by chance or duty (it fell to me to answer). 11 a pass
into a specified condition (fell ill). B become (fall asleep). 12 be defeated or
captured. 13 die. 14 (foll. By on, upon) a attack. B meet with. C embrace or
embark on avidly. 15 (foll. By to + verbal noun) begin (fell to wondering). —n.
1 act of falling. 2 that which falls or has fallen, e.g. Snow. 3 recorded amount of
rainfall etc. 4 overthrow (fall of rome). 5 a succumbing to temptation. B (the
fall) adam’s sin and its results. 6 (also fall) us autumn. 7 (esp. In pl.) Waterfall
etc. 8 wrestling-bout; throw in wrestling. fall about colloq. Be helpless with
laughter. Fall away 1 (of a surface) incline abruptly. 2 become few or thin;
gradually vanish. 3 desert. Fall back retreat. Fall back on have recourse to in
difficulty. Fall behind 1 be outstripped; lag. 2 be in arrears. Fall down (often foll.
By on) colloq. Fail. Fall for colloq. Be captivated or deceived by. Fall foul of
come into conflict with. Fall in 1 take one’s place in military formation. 2
collapse inwards. Fall in with 1 meet by chance. 2 agree with. 3 coincide with.
Fall off 1 become detached. 2 decrease, deteriorate. Fall out 1 quarrel. 2 (of the
hair, teeth, etc.) Become detached. 3 mil. Come out of formation. 4 result; occur.
Fall over backwards see *backwards. Fall over oneself colloq. 1 be eager. 2
stumble through haste, confusion, etc. Fall short be deficient. Fall short of fail to
reach or obtain. Fall through fail; miscarry. Fall to begin, e.g. Eating or working.
[old english]
Fallopian tube n. Either of two tubes along which ova travel from the ovaries to
the womb. [fallopius, name of an anatomist]
Fallow —adj. 1 (of land) ploughed but left unsown. 2 uncultivated. —n. Fallow
land. [old english]
Fallow deer n. Small deer with a white-spotted reddish-brown summer coat. [old
Fallow deer n. Small deer with a white-spotted reddish-brown summer coat. [old
english fallow pale brownish or reddish yellow]
False pretences n.pl. Misrepresentations made with intent to deceive (esp. Under
false pretences).
Falsetto n. Male singing voice above the normal range. [italian diminutive:
related to *false]
Falsies n.pl. Colloq. Pads worn to make the breasts seem larger.
Falter v. 1 stumble; go unsteadily. 2 lose courage. 3 speak hesitatingly. [origin
uncertain]
Familiar —adj. 1 a (often foll. By to) well known. B often met (with). 2 (foll. By
with) knowing a thing well. 3 (often foll. By with) well acquainted (with a
person). 4 informal, esp. Presumptuously so. —n. 1 close friend. 2 (in full
familiar spirit) supposed attendant of a witch etc. familiarity n. Familiarly adv.
[latin: related to *family]
Familiarize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (usu. Foll. By with) make (a person or
oneself) conversant or well acquainted. familiarization n.
Family n. (pl. -ies) 1 set of relations, esp. Parents and children. 2 a members of a
household. B person’s children. 3 all the descendants of a common ancestor. 4
group of similar objects, people, etc. 5 group of related genera of animals or
plants. in the family way colloq. Pregnant. [latin familia]
Family credit n. (also family income supplement) regular state payment to a low-
income family.
Family man n. Man who has a wife and children, esp. One fond of family life.
Fan1 —n. 1 apparatus, usu. With rotating blades, for ventilation etc. 2 folding
semicircular device waved to cool oneself. 3 thing spread out like a fan (fan
tracery). —v. (-nn-) 1 blow air on, with or as with a fan. 2 (of a breeze) blow
gently on. 3 (usu. Foll. By out) spread out like a fan. [latin vannus winnowing-
basket]
Fandango n. (pl. -es or -s) 1 lively spanish dance for two. 2 music for this.
[spanish]
Fan-jet n. = *turbofan.
Fanny n. (pl. -ies) 1 coarse slang the female genitals. 2 us slang the buttocks.
[origin unknown]
Fantasy n. (pl. -ies) 1 imagination, esp. When unrelated to reality (lives in the
realm of fantasy). 2 mental image, day-dream. 3 fantastic invention or
composition. [greek phantasia appearance]
Far (further, furthest or farther, farthest) —adv. 1 at, to, or by a great distance
(far away; far off; far out). 2 a long way (off) in space or time (are you travelling
far?). 3 to a great extent or degree; by much (far better; far too early). —adj. 1
remote; distant (far country). 2 more distant (far end of the hall). 3 extreme (far
left). as far as 1 right up to (a place). 2 to the extent that. By far by a great
amount. A far cry a long way. Far from very different from being; almost the
opposite of (far from being fat). Go far 1 achieve much. 2 contribute greatly. Go
too far overstep the limit (of propriety etc.). So far 1 to such an extent; to this
point. 2 until now. So (or in so) far as (or that) to the extent that. So far so good
satisfactory up to now. [old english]
Far east n. (prec. By the) china, japan, and other countries of e. Asia.
Fare-stage n. 1 section of bus etc. Route for which a fixed fare is charged. 2 stop
marking this.
Far-flung adj. 1 widely scattered. 2 remote.
Farm —n. 1 land and its buildings under one management for growing crops,
rearing animals, etc. 2 such land etc. For a specified purpose (trout-farm). 3 =
*farmhouse. —v. 1 a use (land) for growing crops, rearing animals, etc. B be a
farmer; work on a farm. 2 breed (fish etc.) Commercially. 3 (often foll. By out)
delegate or subcontract (work) to others. farming n. [french ferme from latin
firma fixed payment]
Far-off adj. Remote.
Farrago n. (pl. -s or us -es) medley, hotchpotch. [latin, = mixed fodder, from far
corn]
Farrow —n. 1 litter of pigs. 2 birth of a litter. —v. (also absol.) (of a sow)
produce (pigs). [old english]
Fart coarse slang —v. 1 emit wind from the anus. 2 (foll. By about, around)
behave foolishly. —n. 1 an emission of wind from the anus. 2 unpleasant or
foolish person. [old english]
Farthing n. Hist. Coin and monetary unit worth a quarter of an old penny. [old
english: related to *fourth]
Fascia n. (also facia) (pl. -s) 1 a instrument panel of a vehicle. B similar panel
etc. For operating machinery. 2 strip with a name etc. Over a shop-front. 3 a long
flat surface in classical architecture. B flat surface, usu. Of wood, covering the
ends of rafters. 4 stripe or band. [latin, = band, door-frame]
Fascinate v. (-ting) 1 capture the interest of; attract. 2 paralyse (a victim) with
fear. fascination n. [latin fascinum spell]
Fashion —n. 1 current popular custom or style, esp. In dress. 2 manner of doing
something. —v. (often foll. By into) make or form. after (or in) a fashion to
some extent, barely acceptably. In (or out of) fashion fashionable (or not
fashionable). [latin factio: related to *fact]
Fast1 —adj. 1 rapid, quick-moving. 2 capable of or intended for high speed (fast
car; fast road). 3 (of a clock etc.) Ahead of the correct time. 4 (of a pitch etc.)
Causing the ball to bounce quickly. 5 firm; firmly fixed or attached (fast knot;
fast friendship). 6 (of a colour) not fading. 7 pleasure seeking, dissolute. 8 (of
photographic film etc.) Needing only short exposure. —adv. 1 quickly; in quick
succession. 2 firmly, tightly (stand fast). 3 soundly, completely (fast asleep). pull
a fast one colloq. Perpetrate deceit. [old english]
Fast2 —v. Abstain from food, or certain food, for a time. —n. Act or period of
fasting. [old english]
Fast breeder n. (also fast breeder reactor) reactor using fast neutrons.
Fasten v. 1 make or become fixed or secure. 2 (foll. By in, up) lock securely;
shut in. 3 (foll. By on, upon) direct (a look, thoughts, etc.) Towards. 4 (foll. By
on, upon) a take hold of. B single out. 5 (foll. By off) fix with a knot or stitches.
fastener n. [old english: related to *fast1]
Fast worker n. Colloq. Person who rapidly makes esp. Sexual advances.
Fat —n. 1 natural oily or greasy substance found esp. In animal bodies. 2 part of
meat etc. Containing this. —adj. (fatter, fattest) 1 corpulent; plump. 2 containing
much fat. 3 fertile. 4 a thick (fat book). B substantial (fat cheque). 5 colloq. Iron.
Very little; not much (a fat chance; a fat lot). —v. (-tt-) make or become fat. the
fat is in the fire trouble is imminent. Kill the fatted calf celebrate, esp. At a
prodigal’s return (luke 15). Live off (or on) the fat of the land live luxuriously.
fatless adj. Fatness n. Fattish adj. [old english]
Fatal adj. 1 causing or ending in death (fatal accident). 2 (often foll. By to)
ruinous (fatal mistake). 3 fateful. fatally adv. [latin: related to *fate]
Father —n. 1 male parent. 2 (usu. In pl.) Forefather. 3 originator, early leader. 4
(fathers or fathers of the church) early christian theologians. 5 (also father)
(often as a title or form of address) priest. 6 (the father) (in christian belief) first
person of the trinity. 7 (father) venerable person, esp. As a title in
personifications (father time). 8 (usu. In pl.) Elders (city fathers). —v. 1 beget. 2
originate (a scheme etc.). fatherhood n. Fatherless adj. [old english]
Father’s day n. Day on which cards and presents are given to fathers.
Fathom —n. (pl. Often fathom when prec. By a number) measure of six feet,
esp. In depth soundings. —v. 1 comprehend. 2 measure the depth of (water).
fathomable adj. [old english]
Fatten v. Make or become fat.
Fatuous adj. Vacantly silly; purposeless, idiotic. fatuity n. (pl. -ies). Fatuously
adv. Fatuousness n. [latin fatuus]
Faulty adj. (-ier, -iest) having faults; imperfect. faultily adv. Faultiness n.
Faun n. Latin rural deity with goat’s horns, legs, and tail. [latin faunus]
Fauna n. (pl. -s or -nae) animal life of a region or period. [latin fauna, name of a
rural goddess]
Faux pas n. (pl. Same) tactless mistake; blunder. [french, = false step]
Favor (brit. Favour) —n. 1 kind act (did it as a favour). 2 approval, goodwill;
friendly regard (gained their favour). 3 partiality. 4 badge, ribbon, etc., as an
emblem of support. —v. 1 regard or treat with favour or partiality. 2 support,
promote, prefer. 3 be to the advantage of; facilitate. 4 tend to confirm (an idea
etc.). 5 (foll. By with) oblige. 6 (as favoured adj.) Having special advantages.
Favorite (brit. Favourite) —adj. Preferred to all others (favourite book). —n. 1
favourite person or thing. 2 sport competitor thought most likely to win. [italian:
related to *favour]
Favour (us favor) —n. 1 kind act (did it as a favour). 2 approval, goodwill;
friendly regard (gained their favour). 3 partiality. 4 badge, ribbon, etc., as an
emblem of support. —v. 1 regard or treat with favour or partiality. 2 support,
promote, prefer. 3 be to the advantage of; facilitate. 4 tend to confirm (an idea
etc.). 5 (foll. By with) oblige. 6 (as favoured adj.) Having special advantages. in
favour 1 approved of. 2 (foll. By of) a in support of. B to the advantage of. Out
of favour disapproved of. [latin faveo be kind to]
Favourite (us favorite) —adj. Preferred to all others (favourite book). —n. 1
favourite person or thing. 2 sport competitor thought most likely to win. [italian:
related to *favour]
Favouritism n. (us favoritism) unfair favouring of one person etc. At the expense
of another.
Fawn1 —n. 1 deer in its first year. 2 light yellowish brown. —adj. Fawn-
coloured. —v. (also absol.) Give birth to (a fawn). [latin: related to *foetus]
Fawn2 v. 1 (often foll. By on, upon) behave servilely, cringe. 2 (of esp. A dog)
show extreme affection. [old english]
Fax —n. 1 transmission of an exact copy of a document etc. Electronically. 2
copy produced by this. —v. Transmit in this way. [abbreviation of *facsimile]
Fealty n. (pl. -ies) 1 hist. Fidelity to a feudal lord. 2 allegiance. [latin: related to
*fidelity]
Fear —n. 1 a panic or distress caused by a sense of impending danger, pain, etc.
B cause of this. C state of alarm (in fear). 2 (often foll. By of) dread, awe
(towards) (fear of heights). 3 danger (little fear of failure). —v. 1 feel fear about
or towards. 2 (foll. By for) feel anxiety about (feared for my life). 3 (often foll.
By that) foresee or expect with unease, fear, or regret (fear the worst; i fear that
you are wrong). 4 (foll. By verbal noun) shrink from (feared meeting his ex-
wife). 5 revere (esp. God). for fear of (or that) to avoid the risk of (or that). No
fear colloq. Certainly not! [old english]
Fearless adj. (often foll. By of) not afraid, brave. fearlessly adv. Fearlessness n.
Feasible adj. Practicable, possible. feasibility n. Feasibly adv. [latin facio do]
Usage feasible should not be used to mean ‘possible’ or ‘probable’ in the sense
‘likely’. ‘possible’ or ‘probable’ should be used instead.
Feather —n. 1 one of the structures forming a bird’s plumage, with a horny stem
and fine strands. 2 (collect.) A plumage. B game-birds. —v. 1 cover or line with
feathers. 2 turn (an oar) edgeways through the air. feather in one’s cap a personal
achievement. Feather one’s nest enrich oneself. In fine (or high) feather colloq.
In good spirits. feathery adj. [old english]
February n. (pl. -ies) second month of the year. [latin februa purification feast]
Feces n.pl. (brit. Faeces) waste matter discharged from the bowels. faecal adj.
[latin]
Fed past and past part. Of *feed. fed up (often foll. By with) discontented or
bored.
bored.
Fee n. 1 payment made for professional advice or services etc. 2 a charge for a
privilege, examination, admission to a society, etc. (enrolment fee). B money
paid for the transfer to another employer of a footballer etc. 3 (in pl.) Regular
payments (esp. To a school). 4 law inherited estate, unlimited (fee simple) or
limited (fee tail) as to category of heir. [medieval latin feudum]
Feed —v. (past and past part. Fed) 1 a supply with food. B put food into the
mouth of. 2 give as food, esp. To animals. 3 (usu. Foll. By on) (esp. Of animals,
or colloq. Of people) eat. 4 (often foll. By on) nourish or be nourished by;
benefit from. 5 a keep (a fire, machine, etc.) Supplied with fuel etc. B (foll. By
into) supply (material) to a machine etc. C (often foll. By into) (of a river etc.)
Flow into a lake etc. D keep (a meter) supplied with coins to ensure continuity. 6
slang supply (an actor etc.) With cues. 7 sport send passes to (a player). 8 gratify
(vanity etc.). 9 provide (advice, information, etc.) To. —n. 1 food, esp. For
animals or infants. 2 feeding; giving of food. 3 colloq. Meal. 4 a raw material for
a machine etc. B provision of or device for this. feed back produce feedback.
Feed up fatten. [old english]
Feel —v. (past and past part. Felt) 1 a examine or search by touch. B (absol.)
Have the sensation of touch (unable to feel). 2 perceive or ascertain by touch
(feel the warmth). 3 experience, exhibit, or be affected by (an emotion,
conviction, etc.) (felt strongly about it; felt the rebuke). 4 (foll. By that) have an
impression (i feel that i am right). 5 consider, think (i feel it useful). 6 seem (air
feels chilly). 7 be consciously; consider oneself (i feel happy). 8 (foll. By for,
with) have sympathy or pity. 9 (often foll. By up) slang fondle sexually. —n. 1
feeling; testing by touch. 2 sensation characterizing a material, situation, etc. 3
sense of touch. feel like have a wish or inclination for. Feel up to be ready to
face or deal with. Feel one’s way proceed cautiously. Get the feel of become
accustomed to using. [old english]
Feeling —n. 1 a capacity to feel; sense of touch (lost all feeling). B physical
sensation. 2 a (often foll. By of) emotional reaction (feeling of despair). B (in
pl.) Emotional susceptibilities (hurt my feelings). 3 particular sensitivity (feeling
for literature). 4 a opinion or notion (had a feeling she would). B general
sentiment. 5 sympathy or compassion. 6 emotional sensibility or intensity
(played with feeling). —adj. Sensitive, sympathetic; heartfelt. feelingly adv.
Feint —n. 1 sham attack or diversionary blow. 2 pretence. —v. Make a feint. —
adj. = faint adj. 5. [french: related to feign]
Felicity n. (pl. -ies) formal 1 intense happiness. 2 a capacity for apt expression. B
well-chosen phrase. [latin felix happy]
Feline —adj. 1 of the cat family. 2 catlike. —n. Animal of the cat family. felinity
n. [latin feles cat]
Fell2 v. 1 cut down (esp. A tree). 2 strike or knock down. 3 stitch down (the
edge of a seam). [old english]
Fell4 adj. Poet. Or rhet. Ruthless, destructive. at (or in) one fell swoop in a single
(orig. Deadly) action. [french: related to *felon]
Feller n. = *fellow 1.
Felloe n. (also felly) (pl. -s or -ies) outer circle (or a section of it) of a wheel.
[old english]
Fellow n. 1 colloq. Man or boy (poor fellow!). 2 (usu. In pl.) Person in a group
etc.; comrade (separated from their fellows). 3 counterpart; one of a pair. 4
equal; peer. 5 a incorporated senior member of a college. B elected graduate paid
to do research. 6 member of a learned society. 7 (attrib.) Of the same group etc.
(fellow-countryman). [old english from old norse]
Fellow-feeling n. Sympathy.
Felt1 —n. Cloth of matted and pressed fibres of wool etc. —v. 1 make into felt;
mat. 2 cover with felt. 3 become matted. [old english]
Felucca n. Small mediterranean coasting vessel with oars and/or sails. [arabic
fulk]
Female —adj. 1 of the sex that can give birth or produce eggs. 2 (of plants) fruit-
bearing. 3 of women or female animals or plants. 4 (of a screw, socket, etc.)
Hollow to receive an inserted part. —n. Female person, animal, or plant. [latin
diminutive of femina woman, assimilated to male]
Feminism n. Advocacy of women’s rights and sexual equality. feminist n. & adj.
Fen n. 1 low marshy land. 2 (the fens) lowlying areas in cambridgeshire etc. [old
english]
Fence —n. 1 barrier, railing, etc., enclosing a field, garden, etc. 2 large upright
jump for horses. 3 slang receiver of stolen goods. 4 guard or guide in machinery.
—v. (-cing) 1 surround with or as with a fence. 2 (foll. By in, off, up) enclose,
separate, or seal, with or as with a fence. 3 practise fencing with a sword. 4 be
evasive. 5 slang deal in (stolen goods). fencer n. [from *defence]
Fend v. 1 (foll. By for) look after (esp. Oneself). 2 (usu. Foll. By off) ward off.
[from *defend]
Fennel n. Yellow-flowered fragrant herb used for flavouring. [latin fenum hay]
Fenugreek n. Leguminous plant with aromatic seeds used for flavouring. [latin, =
greek hay]
Feral adj. 1 wild; uncultivated. 2 (of an animal) escaped and living wild. 3 brutal.
[latin ferus wild]
Ferial adj. Eccl. (of a day) not a festival or fast. [latin feria *fair2]
Fern n. (pl. Same or -s) flowerless plant usu. Having feathery fronds. ferny adj.
[old english]
-ferous comb. Form (usu. -iferous) forming adjectives with the sense ‘bearing’,
‘having’ (odoriferous). [latin fero bear]
Ferret —n. Small polecat used in catching rabbits, rats, etc. —v. 1 hunt with
ferrets. 2 (often foll. By out, about, etc.) Rummage; search out (secrets,
criminals, etc.). [latin fur thief]
Ferric adj. 1 of iron. 2 containing iron in a trivalent form. [latin ferrum iron]
Ferris wheel n. Tall revolving vertical wheel with passenger cars in fairgrounds
etc. [ferris, name of its inventor]
Ferrule n. (also ferrel) 1 ring or cap on the lower end of a stick, umbrella, etc. 2
band strengthening or forming a joint. [latin viriae bracelet]
Ferry —n. (pl. -ies) 1 boat or aircraft etc. For esp. Regular transport, esp. Across
water. 2 place or service of ferrying. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 convey or go in a ferry. 2
(of a boat etc.) Cross water regularly. 3 transport, esp. Regularly, from place to
place. ferryman n. [old norse]
Fertile adj. 1 a (of soil) abundantly productive. B fruitful. 2 a (of a seed, egg,
etc.) Capable of growth. B (of animals and plants) able to reproduce. 3 (of the
mind) inventive. 4 (of nuclear material) able to become fissile by the capture of
mind) inventive. 4 (of nuclear material) able to become fissile by the capture of
neutrons. fertility n. [french from latin]
Fertilize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make (soil etc.) Fertile. 2 cause (an egg,
female animal, etc.) To develop by mating etc. fertilization n.
Fervent adj. Ardent, intense (fervent admirer). fervency n. Fervently adv. [latin
ferveo boil]
Festal adj. 1 joyous, merry. 2 of a feast or festival. festally adv. [latin: related to
*feast]
Festoon —n. Curved hanging chain of flowers, leaves, ribbons, etc. —v. (often
foll. By with) adorn with or form into festoons; decorate elaborately. [italian:
related to *festive]
Feta n. Soft white esp. Ewe’s-milk cheese made esp. In greece. [greek pheta]
Fetch —v. 1 go for and bring back (fetch a doctor). 2 be sold for (a price)
(fetched £10). 3 cause (blood, tears, etc.) To flow. 4 draw (breath), heave (a
sigh). 5 colloq. Give (a blow etc.) (fetched him a slap). —n.
Fête —n. 1 outdoor fund-raising event with stalls and amusements etc. 2 festival.
3 saint’s day. —v. (-ting) honour or entertain lavishly. [french: related to *feast]
Fetlock n. Back of a horse’s leg above the hoof with a tuft of hair. [ultimately
related to *foot]
Fetter —n. 1 shackle for the ankles. 2 (in pl.) Captivity. 3 restraint. —v. 1 put
into fetters. 2 restrict. [old english]
Fetus n. (brit. Foetus) (pl. -tuses) unborn mammalian offspring, esp. A human
embryo of eight weeks or more. foetal adj. [latin fetus offspring]
Feu scot. —n. 1 perpetual lease at a fixed rent. 2 land so held. —v. (feus, feued,
feuing) grant (land) on feu. [french: related to *fee]
Feud1 —n. Prolonged hostility, esp. Between families, tribes, etc. —v. Conduct
a feud. [germanic: related to *foe]
Feudal adj. 1 of, like, or according to the feudal system. 2 reactionary (feudal
attitude). feudalism n. Feudalistic adj.
Feudal system n. Medieval system of land tenure with allegiance and service due
to the landowner.
Fever —n. 1 a abnormally high temperature, often with delirium etc. B disease
characterized by this (scarlet fever). 2 nervous excitement; agitation. —v. (esp.
As fevered adj.) Affect with fever or excitement. [latin febris]
Feverfew n. Aromatic bushy plant, used formerly to reduce fever, now to cure
migraine. [latin febrifuga: related to *fever, fugo drive away]
Few —adj. Not many (few doctors smoke). —n. (as pl.) 1 (prec. By a) some but
not many (a few of his friends were there). 2 not many (few are chosen). 3 (prec.
By the) a the minority. B the elect. a good few colloq. Fairly large number. No
By the) a the minority. B the elect. a good few colloq. Fairly large number. No
fewer than as many as (a specified number). Not a few a considerable number.
[old english]
Fez n. (pl. Fezzes) man’s flat-topped conical red cap worn by some muslims.
[turkish]
Fiancé n. (fem. Fiancée pronunc. Same) person one is engaged to. [french]
Fib —n. Trivial lie. —v. (-bb-) tell a fib. fibber n. [perhaps from fible-fable, a
reduplication of *fable]
reduplication of *fable]
Fiberglass n. (brit. Fibreglass) 1 fabric made from woven glass fibres. 2 plastic
reinforced by glass fibres.
Fibreglass n. (us fiberglass) 1 fabric made from woven glass fibres. 2 plastic
reinforced by glass fibres.
Fibre optics n.pl. Optics using thin glass fibres, usu. For the transmission of
modulated light to carry signals.
Fibroid —adj. Of, like, or containing fibrous tissue or fibres. —n. Benign fibrous
tumour growing in the womb.
tumour growing in the womb.
Fibula n. (pl. Fibulae or -s) small outer bone between the knee and the ankle.
fibular adj. [latin, = brooch]
-fication suffix (usu. As -ification) forming nouns of action from verbs in -fy
(purification; simplification).
Fiddle —n. 1 colloq. Or derog. Stringed instrument played with a bow, esp. A
violin. 2 colloq. Cheat or fraud. 3 fiddly task. —v. (-ling) 1 a (often foll. By
with, at) play restlessly. B (often foll. By about) move aimlessly; waste time. C
(usu. Foll. By with) adjust, tinker; tamper. 2 slang a cheat, swindle. B falsify. C
get by cheating. 3 play (a tune) on the fiddle. as fit as a fiddle in very good
health. Play second (or first) fiddle take a subordinate (or leading) role. [old
english]
Fiddle-faddle —n. Trivial matters. —v. (-ling) fuss, trifle. —int. Nonsense!
[reduplication of *fiddle]
Fidget —v. (-t-) 1 move or act restlessly or nervously. 2 be or make uneasy. —n.
1 person who fidgets. 2 (usu. In pl.) Restless movements or mood. fidgety adj.
[obsolete or dial. Fidge twitch]
Fie int. Archaic expressing disgust, shame, etc. [french from latin]
Fief n. 1 land held under the feudal system or in fee. 2 person’s sphere of
operation. [french: related to *fee]
Field —n. 1 area of esp. Cultivated enclosed land. 2 area rich in some natural
product (gas field). 3 land for a game etc. (football field). 4 participants in a
contest, race, or sport, or all except those specified. 5 cricket a the side fielding.
B fielder. 6 expanse of ice, snow, sea, sky, etc. 7 a battlefield. B (attrib.) (of
artillery etc.) Light and mobile. 8 area of activity or study (in his own field). 9
physics a region in which a force is effective (gravitational field). B force
exerted in this. 10 range of perception (field of view). 11 (attrib.) A (of an
animal or plant) wild (field mouse).
Fielder n. = *fieldsman.
Field events n.pl. Athletic events other than races.
Fieldsman n. Cricket, baseball, etc. Member (other than the bowler or pitcher) of
the fielding side.
Field sports n.pl. Outdoor sports, esp. Hunting, shooting, and fishing.
Fiery adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 consisting of or flaming with fire. 2 bright red. 3 hot;
burning. 4 a flashing, ardent (fiery eyes). B pugnacious; spirited (fiery temper).
fierily adv. Fieriness n.
Fife n. Small shrill flute used in military music. fifer n. [german pfeife *pipe or
french fifre]
Fifteen adj. & n. 1 one more than fourteen. 2 symbol for this (15, xv, xv). 3 size
etc. Denoted by fifteen. 4 team of fifteen players, esp. In rugby. 5 (15) (of a film)
for persons of 15 and over. fifteenth adj. & n. [old english: related to *five, *-
teen]
Fifth adj. & n. 1 next after fourth. 2 any of five equal parts of a thing. 3 mus.
Interval or chord spanning five consecutive notes in a diatonic scale (e.g. C to g).
fifthly adv. [old english: related to *five]
Fifty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 five times ten. 2 symbol for this (50, l, l). 3 (in pl.)
Numbers from 50 to 59, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life. fiftieth
adj. & n. [old english]
Fig1 n. 1 soft pulpy fruit with many seeds. 2 (in full fig-tree) tree bearing figs.
not care (or give) a fig not care at all. [latin ficus]
Fig2 n. 1 dress or equipment (in full fig). 2 condition or form (in good fig).
[obsolete feague: related to *fake]
Fig2 n. 1 dress or equipment (in full fig). 2 condition or form (in good fig).
[obsolete feague: related to *fake]
Fight —v. (past and past part. Fought) 1 (often foll. By against, with) contend or
contend with in war, battle, single combat, etc. 2 engage in (a battle, duel, etc.).
3 contend (an election); maintain (a lawsuit, cause, etc.) Against an opponent. 4
strive to achieve something or to overcome (disease, fire, etc.). 5 make (one’s
way) by fighting. —n. 1 a combat. B boxing-match. C battle. 2 conflict, struggle,
or effort. 3 power or inclination to fight (no fight left). fight back 1 counter-
attack. 2 suppress (tears etc.). Fight for 1 fight on behalf of. 2 fight to secure.
Fight a losing battle struggle without hope of success. Fight off repel with effort.
Fight out (usu. Fight it out) settle by fighting. Fight shy of avoid. Put up a fight
offer resistance. [old english]
Fighter n. 1 person or animal that fights. 2 fast military aircraft designed for
attacking other aircraft.
Fig-leaf n. 1 leaf of a fig-tree. 2 concealing device, esp. For the genitals (gen.
3:7).
Figure —n. 1 external form or bodily shape. 2 a silhouette, human form (figure
on the lawn). B person of a specified kind or appearance (public figure; cut a
poor figure). 3 a human form in drawing, sculpture, etc. B image or likeness. 4
two-or three-dimensional space enclosed by lines or surface(s), e.g. A triangle or
sphere. 5 a numerical symbol or number, esp. 0–9. B amount; estimated value
(cannot put a figure on it). C (in pl.) Arithmetical calculations. 6 diagram or
illustration. 7 decorative pattern. 8 movement or sequence in a set dance etc. 9
mus. Succession of notes from which longer passages are developed. 10 (in full
figure of speech) metaphor, hyperbole, etc. —v. (-ring) 1 appear or be
mentioned, esp. Prominently. 2 represent pictorially. 3 imagine; picture
mentally. 4 embellish with a pattern etc. (figured satin). 5 calculate; do
arithmetic. 6 symbolize. 7 esp. Us a understand, consider. B colloq. Make sense;
be likely (that figures). figure on us count on, expect. Figure out work out by
arithmetic or logic. [latin figura: related to *feign]
Filbert n. 1 the cultivated hazel with edible nuts. 2 this nut. [anglo-french,
because ripe about st philibert’s day]
File1 —n. 1 folder, box, etc., for holding loose papers. 2 papers kept in this. 3
computing collection of (usu. Related) data stored under one name. 4 line of
people or things one behind another. —v. (-ling) 1 place (papers) in a file or
among (esp. Public) records. 2 submit (a petition for divorce, a patent
application, etc.). 3 (of a reporter) send (copy) to a newspaper. 4 walk in a line.
[latin filum thread]
File2 —n. Tool with a roughened surface for smoothing or shaping wood,
fingernails, etc. —v. (-ling) smooth or shape with a file. [old english]
Filial adj. Of or due from a son or daughter. filially adv. [latin filius, -a son,
daughter]
Filigree n. 1 fine ornamental work in gold etc. Wire. 2 similar delicate work.
filigreed adj. [latin filum thread, granum seed]
Filipino —n. (pl. -s) native or national of the philippines. —adj. Of the
philippines or filipinos. [spanish, = philippine]
Fill —v. 1 (often foll. By with) make or become full. 2 occupy completely;
spread over or through. 3 block up (a cavity in a tooth); drill and put a filling into
(a decayed tooth). 4 appoint a person to hold or (of a person) hold (a post). 5
hold (an office). 6 carry out or supply (an order, commission, etc.). 7 occupy
(vacant time). 8 (of a sail) be distended by wind. 9 (usu. As filling adj.) (esp. Of
food) satisfy, satiate. —n. 1 as much as one wants or can bear (eat your fill). 2
enough to fill something. fill the bill be suitable or adequate. Fill in 1 complete
(a form, document, etc.). 2 a complete (a drawing etc.) Within an outline. B fill
(an outline) in this way. 3 fill (a hole etc.) Completely. 4 (often foll. By for) act
as a substitute. 5 occupy oneself during (spare time). 6 colloq. Inform (a person)
more fully. 7 slang thrash, beat. Fill out 1 enlarge to the required size. 2 become
enlarged or plump. 3 us fill in (a document etc.). Fill up 1 make or become
completely full. 2 fill in (a document etc.). 3 fill the petrol tank of (a car etc.).
[old english]
Filler n. 1 material used to fill a cavity or increase bulk. 2 small item filling
space in a newspaper etc.
Fillet —n. 1 a boneless piece of meat or fish. B (in full fillet steak) undercut of a
sirloin. 2 ribbon etc. Binding the hair. 3 thin narrow strip or ridge. 4 narrow flat
band between mouldings. —v. (-t-) 1 remove bones from (fish or meat) or divide
into fillets. 2 bind or provide with fillet(s). [latin filum thread]
Fillip —n. 1 stimulus, incentive. 2 flick with a finger or thumb. —v. (-p-) 1
stimulate. 2 flick. [imitative]
Filly n. (pl. -ies) 1 young female horse. 2 colloq. Girl or young woman. [old
norse]
Film —n. 1 thin coating or covering layer. 2 strip or sheet of plastic etc. Coated
with light-sensitive emulsion for exposure in a camera. 3 a story, episode, etc.,
on film, with the illusion of movement. B (in pl.) The cinema industry. 4 slight
veil or haze etc. 5 dimness or morbid growth affecting the eyes. —v. 1 make a
photographic film of (a scene, story, etc.). 2 cover or become covered with or as
with a film. [old english]
Filmy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 thin and translucent. 2 covered with or as with a film.
Filo pastry n. (also phyllo pastry) leaved pastry like strudel pastry. [greek
phullon leaf]
Filter —n. 1 porous device for removing impurities etc. From a liquid or gas
passed through it. 2 = *filter tip. 3 screen or attachment for absorbing or
modifying light, x-rays, etc. 4 device for suppressing unwanted electrical or
sound waves. 5 arrangement for filtering traffic. —v. 1 (cause to) pass through a
filter. 2 (foll. By through, into, etc.) Make way gradually. 3 (foll. By out) (cause
to) leak. 4 allow (traffic) or (of traffic) be allowed to pass to the left or right at a
junction. [germanic: related to *felt1]
Filter tip n. 1 filter on a cigarette removing some impurities. 2 cigarette with this.
filter-tipped adj.
Filtrate —v. (-ting) filter. —n. Filtered liquid. filtration n. [related to *filter]
Fin n. 1 (usu. Thin) flat external organ of esp. Fish, for propelling, steering, etc.
(dorsal fin). 2 similar stabilizing projection on an aircraft, car, etc. 3 underwater
swimmer’s flipper. finned adj. [old english]
Final —adj. 1 situated at the end, coming last. 2 conclusive, decisive. —n. 1 last
or deciding heat or game in sports etc. (cup final). 2 last daily edition of a
newspaper. 3 (usu. In pl.) Examinations at the end of a degree course. finally
adv. [latin finis end]
Finale n. Last movement or section of a piece of music or drama etc. [italian:
related to *final]
Finality n. (pl. -ies) 1 fact of being final. 2 final act etc. [latin: related to *final]
Finalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) put into final form; complete. finalization
n.
Finance company n. (also finance house) company providing money, esp. For
hire-purchase transactions.
Financial year n. Year as reckoned for taxing or accounting, esp. From 6 april.
Find —v. (past and past part. Found) 1 a discover or get by chance or effort
(found a key). B become aware of. 2 a obtain, succeed in obtaining; receive (idea
found acceptance). B summon up (found courage). 3 seek out and provide or
supply (will find you a book; finds his own meals). 4 discover by study etc. (find
the answer). 5 a perceive or experience (find no sense in it). B (often in passive)
discover to be present (not found in shakespeare). C discover from experience
(finds england too cold). 6 law (of a jury, judge, etc.) Decide and declare (found
him guilty). 7 reach by a natural process (water finds its own level). —n. 1
discovery of treasure etc. 2 valued thing or person newly discovered. all found
(of wages) with board and lodging provided free. Find fault see *fault. Find
favour prove acceptable. Find one’s feet 1 become able to walk. 2 develop
independence. Find oneself 1 discover that one is (found herself agreeing).
Finder n. 1 person who finds. 2 small telescope attached to a large one to locate
an object. 3 viewfinder.
Fine2 —n. Money to be paid as a penalty. —v. (-ning) punish by a fine (fined
him £5). in fine in short. [french fin settlement of a dispute, from latin finis end]
Fine arts n.pl. Poetry, music, and the visual arts, esp. Painting, sculpture, and
architecture.
Fines herbes n.pl. Mixed herbs used in cooking. [french, = fine herbs]
Fine-tooth comb n. Comb with close-set teeth. go over with a fine-tooth comb
check or search thoroughly.
Finger —n. 1 any of the terminal projections of the hand (usu. Excluding the
thumb). 2 part of a glove etc. For a finger. 3 finger-like object or structure (fish
finger). 4 colloq. Small measure of liquor. —v. Touch, feel, or turn about with
the fingers. get (or pull) one’s finger out slang start to act. Lay a finger on touch,
however slightly. Put one’s finger on locate or identify exactly. fingerless adj.
[old english]
Finger-bowl n. (also finger-glass) small bowl for rinsing the fingers during a
meal.
Finger-dry v. Dry and style (the hair) by running one’s fingers through it.
Finish —v. 1 a (often foll. By off) bring or come to an end or the end of;
complete; cease. B (usu. Foll. By off) colloq. Kill; vanquish. C (often foll. By
off, up) consume or complete consuming (food or drink). 2 treat the surface of
(cloth, woodwork, etc.). —n. 1 a end, last stage, completion. B point at which a
race etc. Ends. 2 method, material, etc. Used for surface treatment of wood,
cloth, etc. (mahogany finish). finish up (often foll. By in, by) end (finished up by
crying). Finish with have no more to do with, complete using etc. [latin finis
end]
Finite adj. 1 limited; not infinite. 2 (of a part of a verb) having a specific number
and person. [latin: related to *finish]
Finnic adj. Of the group of peoples or languages related to the finns or finnish.
Finnish —adj. Of the finns or their language. —n. Language of the finns.
Fir n. 1 (in full fir-tree) evergreen coniferous tree with needles growing singly on
the stems. 2 its wood. firry adj. [old norse]
the stems. 2 its wood. firry adj. [old norse]
Fire —n. 1 a combustion of substances with oxygen, giving out light and heat. B
flame or incandescence. 2 destructive burning (forest fire). 3 a burning fuel in a
grate, furnace, etc. B = electric fire. C = gas fire. 4 firing of guns. 5 a fervour,
spirit, vivacity. B poetic inspiration. 6 burning heat, fever. —v. (-ring) 1 (often
foll. By at, into, on) a shoot (a gun, missile, etc.). B shoot a gun or missile etc. 2
produce (a broadside, salute, etc.) By shooting guns etc. 3 (of a gun etc.) Be
discharged. 4 explode or kindle (an explosive). 5 deliver or utter rapidly (fired
insults at us). 6 slang dismiss (an employee). 7 set fire to intentionally. 8 catch
fire. 9 (of esp. An internal-combustion engine) undergo ignition. 10 supply (a
furnace, engine, etc.) With fuel. 11 stimulate; enthuse. 12 bake, dry, or cure
(pottery, bricks, tea, tobacco, etc.). 13 become or cause to become heated,
excited, red, or glowing. catch fire begin to burn. Fire away colloq. Begin; go
ahead. On fire 1 burning. 2 excited. Set fire to (or set on fire) ignite, kindle. Set
the world (or thames) on fire do something remarkable or sensational. Under fire
1 being shot at. 2 being rigorously criticized or questioned. [old english]
Fire-bomb n. Incendiary bomb.
Fire-break n. Obstacle to the spread of fire in a forest etc., esp. An open space.
Firedamp n. Miners’ name for methane, which is explosive when mixed with air.
Firedog n. Andiron.
Fire-drill n. Rehearsal of the procedures to be used in case of fire.
Firefighter n. = *fireman 1.
Fire-practice n. Fire-drill.
Fireproof —adj. Able to resist fire or great heat. —v. Make fireproof.
Fire-screen n. 1 ornamental screen for a fireplace. 2 screen against the direct heat
of a fire. 3 fire-guard.
Fire-ship n. Hist. Ship set on fire and directed against an enemy’s ships etc.
Fire-watcher n. Person keeping watch for fires, esp. Those caused by bombs.
Firework n. 1 device that burns or explodes spectacularly when lit. 2 (in pl.)
Outburst of passion, esp. Anger.
First —adj. 1 earliest in time or order (took the first bus). 2 foremost in rank or
importance (first lord of the treasury). 3 most willing or likely (the first to admit
it). 4 basic or evident (first principles). —n. 1 (prec. By the) person or thing first
mentioned or occurring. 2 first occurrence of something notable. 3 place in the
first class in an examination. 4 first gear. 5 a first place in a race. B winner of
this. —adv. 1 before any other person or thing (first of all; first and foremost). 2
before someone or something else (get this done first). 3 for the first time (when
did you first see her?). 4 in preference; rather (will see him damned first). at first
at the beginning. At first hand directly from the original source.
First class —n. 1 best group or category. 2 best accommodation in a train, ship,
etc. 3 mail given priority. 4 highest division in an examination. —adj. & adv.
(first-class) 1 of or by the first class. 2 excellent.
First-day cover n. Envelope with stamps postmarked on their first day of issue.
First floor n. (us second floor) floor above the ground floor.
First-foot scot. —n. First person to cross a threshold in the new year. —v. Be a
first-foot.
First lady n. (in the us) wife of the president.
First post n. (also last post) bugle-call as a signal to retire for the night.
Firth n. (also frith) 1 narrow inlet of sea. 2 estuary. [old norse: related to *fiord]
Fiscal —adj. Of public revenue. —n. 1 legal official in some countries. 2 scot. =
*procurator fiscal. [latin fiscus treasury]
Fish1 —n. (pl. Same or -es) 1 vertebrate cold-blooded animal with gills and fins
living wholly in water. 2 any of various non-vertebrate animals living wholly in
water, e.g. The cuttlefish, shellfish, and jellyfish. 3 fish as food. 4 colloq. Person
of a specified, usu. Unpleasant, kind (an odd fish). 5 (the fish or fishes) sign or
constellation pisces. —v. 1 try to catch fish. 2 fish in (a certain river, pool, etc.).
3 (foll. By for) a search for. B seek indirectly (fishing for compliments). 4 (foll.
By up, out, etc.) Retrieve with effort. drink like a fish drink alcohol excessively.
Fish out of water person out of his or her element. Other fish to fry other matters
to attend to. [old english]
Fish2 n. Flat or curved plate of iron, wood, etc., used to strengthen a beam, joint,
or mast. [french ficher fix, from latin figere *fix]
Fish cake n. Breaded cake of fish and mashed potato, usu. Fried.
Fishery n. (pl. -ies) 1 place where fish are caught or reared. 2 industry of fishing
or breeding fish.
Fishy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like fish. 2 slang dubious, suspect. fishily adv.
Fishiness n.
Fissure —n. Crack or split, usu. Long and narrow. —v. (-ring) split, crack. [latin
findo fiss-cleave]
Fisticuffs n.pl. Fighting with the fists. [probably from obsolete fisty (from fist),
cuff2]
Fistula n. (pl. -s or -lae) abnormal or artificial passage between an organ and the
body surface or between two organs. fistular adj. Fistulous adj. [latin, = pipe]
Fitted adj. 1 made to fit closely or exactly (fitted carpet). 2 provided with built-in
fittings etc. (fitted kitchen). 3 built-in (fitted cupboards).
Fitter n. 1 mechanic who fits together and adjusts machinery. 2 supervisor of the
cutting, fitting, etc. Of garments.
Five adj. & n. 1 one more than four. 2 symbol for this (5, v, v). 3 size etc.
Denoted by five. 4 set or team of five. 5 five o’clock (is it five yet?). 6 cricket hit
scoring five runs. [old english]
Fivefold adj. & adv. 1 five times as much or as many. 2 consisting of five parts.
Five o’clock shadow n. Beard-growth visible in the latter part of the day.
Fives n. Game in which a ball is hit with a gloved hand or bat against the walls
of a court.
Fivestones n. Jacks played with five pieces of metal etc. And usu. No ball.
Fix —v. 1 make firm or stable; fasten, secure. 2 decide, settle, specify (a price,
date, etc.). 3 mend, repair. 4 implant in the mind. 5 a (foll. By on, upon) direct
(the eyes etc.) Steadily, set. B attract and hold (the attention, eyes, etc.). C (foll.
By with) single out with one’s look etc. 6 place definitely, establish. 7 determine
the exact nature, position, etc., of; refer (a thing) to a definite place or time;
identify, locate. 8 a make (the eyes, features, etc.) Rigid. B (of eyes, features,
etc.) Become rigid. 9 us colloq. Prepare (food or drink). 10 congeal or become
congealed. 11 colloq. Punish, kill, deal with (a person). 12 colloq. A bribe or
threaten into supporting. B gain a fraudulent result of (a race etc.). 13 slang
inject a narcotic. 14 make (a colour, photographic image, etc.) Fast or
permanent. 15 (of a plant etc.) Assimilate (nitrogen or carbon dioxide). —n. 1
colloq. Dilemma, predicament. 2 a finding one’s position by bearings etc. B
position found in this way. 3 slang dose of an addictive drug. be fixed (usu. Foll.
By for) colloq. Be situated (regarding) (how is he fixed for money?). Fix on (or
upon) choose, decide on. Fix up 1 arrange, organize. 2 accommodate. 3 (often
foll. By with) provide (a person) (fixed me up with a job). fixable adj. [latin figo
fix-]
Fixate v. (-ting) 1 direct one’s gaze on. 2 psychol. (usu. In passive; often foll. By
on, upon) cause (a person) to become abnormally attached to a person or thing.
[latin: related to *fix]
Fizz —v. 1 make a hissing or spluttering sound. 2 (of a drink) effervesce. —n. 1
effervescence. 2 colloq. Effervescent drink, esp. Champagne. [imitative]
Fizzle —v. (-ling) make a feeble hiss. —n. Such a sound. fizzle out end feebly.
[imitative]
Flabby adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of flesh etc.) Limp; flaccid. 2 feeble. flabbiness n.
[alteration of flappy: related to *flap]
Flag1 —n. 1 a usu. Oblong or square piece of cloth, attachable by one edge to a
pole or rope as a country’s emblem or standard, a signal, etc. B small toy etc.
Resembling a flag. 2 adjustable strip of metal etc. Indicating a taxi’s availability
for hire. —v. (-gg-) 1 a grow tired; lag (was soon flagging). B hang down;
droop. 2 mark out with or as if with a flag or flags. 3 (often foll. By that) inform
or communicate by flag-signals. flag down signal to stop. [origin unknown]
Flag2 —n. (also flagstone) 1 flat usu. Rectangular paving stone. 2 (in pl.)
Pavement of these. —v. (-gg-) pave with flags. [probably scandinavian]
Flag3 n. Plant with a bladed leaf (esp. The iris). [origin unknown]
Flag-day n. Fund-raising day for a charity, esp. With the sale of small paper
flags etc. In the street.
Flagon n. 1 large bottle, usu. Holding a quart (1.13 litres), esp. Of wine, cider,
etc. 2 large vessel for wine etc., usu. With a handle, spout, and lid. [latin flasco
*flask]
Flag-pole n. = *flagstaff.
Flagstone n. = *flag2.
Flail —n. Wooden staff with a short heavy stick swinging from it, used for
threshing. —v. 1 wave or swing wildly. 2 beat with or as with a flail. [latin
flagellum whip]
Flair n. 1 natural talent in a specific area (flair for languages). 2 style, finesse.
[french flairer to smell]
Flake —n. 1 small thin light piece of snow etc. 2 thin broad piece peeled or split
off. 3 dogfish etc. As food. —v. (-king) (often foll. By away, off) 1 take off or
come away in flakes. 2 sprinkle with or fall in flakes. flake out colloq. Fall
asleep or drop from exhaustion; faint. [origin unknown]
Flaky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or in flakes. 2 esp. Us slang crazy, eccentric.
Flambé adj. (of food) covered with alcohol and set alight briefly (following a
noun: pancakes flambé). [french: related to *flame]
Flame —n. 1 a ignited gas. B portion of this (flame flickered; burst into flames).
2 a bright light or colouring. B brilliant orange-red colour. 3 a strong passion,
esp. Love (fan the flame). B colloq. Sweetheart. —v. (-ming) 1 (often foll. By
away, forth, out, up) burn; blaze. 2 (often foll. By out, up) a (of passion) break
out. B (of a person) become angry. 3 shine or glow like flame. [latin flamma]
Flamenco n. (pl. -s) 1 style of spanish gypsy guitar music with singing. 2 dance
performed to this. [spanish, = flemish]
Flaming adj. 1 emitting flames. 2 very hot (flaming june). 3 colloq. A passionate
(flaming row). B expressing annoyance (that flaming dog). 4 bright-coloured.
Flamingo n. (pl. -s or -es) tall long-necked wading bird with mainly pink
plumage. [provençal: related to *flame]
Flan n. 1 pastry case with a savoury or sweet filling. 2 sponge base with a sweet
topping. [medieval latin flado -onis]
Flank —n. 1 side of the body between ribs and hip. 2 side of a mountain,
building, etc. 3 right or left side of an army etc. —v. (often in passive) be at or
move along the side of (road flanked by mountains). [french from germanic]
Flannel —n. 1 a woven woollen usu. Napless fabric. B (in pl.) Flannel garments,
esp. Trousers. 2 face-cloth, esp. Towelling. 3 slang nonsense; flattery. —v. (-ll-;
us -l-) 1 slang flatter. 2 wash with a flannel. [welsh gwlanen from gwlan wool]
Flap —v. (-pp-) 1 move or be moved up and down; beat. 2 colloq. Be agitated or
panicky. 3 sway; flutter. 4 (usu. Foll. By away, off) strike (flies etc.) With flat
object; drive. 5 colloq. (of ears) listen intently. —n. 1 piece of cloth, wood, etc.
Attached by one side esp. To cover a gap, e.g. A pocket-cover, the folded part of
an envelope, a table-leaf. 2 motion of a wing, arm, etc. 3 colloq. Agitation; panic
(in a flap). 4 aileron. 5 light blow with something flat. flappy adj. [probably
imitative]
Flapper n. 1 person apt to panic. 2 slang (in the 1920s) young unconventional
woman.
Flare —v. (-ring) 1 widen gradually (flared trousers). 2 (cause to) blaze brightly
and unsteadily. 3 burst out, esp. Angrily. —n. 1 a dazzling irregular flame or
light. B sudden outburst of flame. 2 flame or bright light used as a signal or to
illuminate a target etc. 3 a gradual widening, esp. Of a skirt or trousers. B (in pl.)
Wide-bottomed trousers. flare up burst into a sudden blaze, anger, activity, etc.
[origin unknown]
Flash —v. 1 (cause to) emit a brief or sudden light; (cause to) gleam. 2 send or
reflect like a sudden flame (eyes flashed fire). 3 a burst suddenly into view or
perception (answer flashed upon me). B move swiftly (train flashed past). 4 a
send (news etc.) By radio, telegraph, etc. B signal to (a person) with lights. 5
colloq. Show ostentatiously (flashed her ring). 6 slang indecently expose oneself.
—n. 1 sudden bright light or flame, e.g. Of lightning. 2 an instant (in a flash). 3
sudden brief feeling, display of wit, etc. (flash of hope). 4 = *newsflash. 5
photog. = *flashlight 1. 6 mil. Coloured cloth patch on a uniform. 7 bright patch
of colour. —adj. Colloq. Gaudy; showy; vulgar (flash car). [imitative]
Flasher n. 1 slang man who indecently exposes himself. 2 automatic device for
switching lights rapidly on and off.
Flashing n. (usu. Metal) strip used to prevent water penetration at a roof joint
etc. [dial.]
Flashpoint n. 1 temperature at which vapour from oil etc. Will ignite in air. 2
point at which anger etc. Is expressed.
Flashy adj. (-ier, -iest) showy; gaudy; cheaply attractive. flashily adv. Flashiness
n.
Flat2 n. Set of rooms, usu. On one floor, as a residence. flatlet n. [obsolete flet
floor, dwelling, from germanic: related to *flat1]
Flat-fish n. Sole, plaice, etc. With both eyes on one side of a flattened body.
Flat race n. Horse race without jumps, over level ground. flat racing n.
Flatter v. 1 compliment unduly, esp. For gain or advantage. 2 (usu. Refl.; usu.
Foll. By that) congratulate or delude (oneself etc.) (he flatters himself that he can
sing). 3 (of colour, style, portrait, painter etc.) Enhance the appearance of (that
blouse flatters you). 4 cause to feel honoured. flatterer n. Flattering adj.
Flatteringly adv. [french]
Flaunt v. (often refl.) Display proudly; show off; parade. [origin unknown]
Usage flaunt is often confused with flout which means ‘to disobey
contemptuously’.
Flavor (brit. Flavour) —n. 1 mingled sensation of smell and taste (cheesy
flavour). 2 characteristic quality (romantic flavour). 3 (usu. Foll. By of) slight
admixture (flavour of failure). —v. Give flavour to; season. flavourless adj.
Flavoursome adj. [french]
Flavour (us flavor) —n. 1 mingled sensation of smell and taste (cheesy flavour).
2 characteristic quality (romantic flavour). 3 (usu. Foll. By of) slight admixture
(flavour of failure). —v. Give flavour to; season. flavourless adj. Flavoursome
(flavour of failure). —v. Give flavour to; season. flavourless adj. Flavoursome
adj. [french]
Flavour of the month n. (also flavour of the week) temporary trend or fashion.
Flax n. 1 blue-flowered plant cultivated for its textile fibre and its seeds. 2 flax
fibres. [old english]
Flax-seed n. Linseed.
Flay v. 1 strip the skin or hide off, esp. By beating. 2 criticize severely. 3 peel off
(skin, bark, peel, etc.). 4 extort money etc. From. [old english]
Flea n. Small wingless jumping parasitic insect. a flea in one’s ear sharp reproof.
[old english]
Fleck —n. 1 small patch of colour or light. 2 particle, speck. —v. Mark with
flecks. [old norse, or low german or dutch]
Flection n. (brit. Flexion) 1 bending or being bent, esp. Of a limb or joint. 2 bent
part; curve. [latin flexio: related to *flex1]
Fledge v. (-ging) 1 provide or deck (an arrow etc.) With feathers. 2 bring up (a
young bird) until it can fly. 3 (as fledged adj.) A able to fly. B independent;
mature. [obsolete adj. Fledge fit to fly]
Fledgling n. (also fledgeling) 1 young bird. 2 inexperienced person.
Flee v. (past and past part. Fled) 1 (often foll. By from, before) a run away
(from); leave abruptly (fled the room). B seek safety by fleeing. 2 vanish. [old
english]
Fleece —n. 1 a woolly coat of a sheep etc. B wool sheared from a sheep at one
time. 2 thing resembling a fleece, esp. Soft fabric for lining etc. —v. (-cing) 1
(often foll. By of) strip of money, valuables, etc.; swindle. 2 shear (sheep etc.). 3
cover as if with a fleece (sky fleeced with clouds). fleecy adj. (-ier, -iest). [old
english]
Flesh n. 1 a soft, esp. Muscular, substance between the skin and bones of an
animal or a human. B plumpness; fat. 2 the body, esp. As sinful. 3 pulpy
substance of a fruit etc. 4 a visible surface of the human body. B (also flesh-
colour) yellowish pink colour. 5 animal or human life. all flesh all animate
creation. Flesh out make or become substantial. In the flesh in person. One’s
own flesh and blood near relatives. [old english]
Flesh and blood —n. 1 the body or its substance. 2 humankind. 3 human nature,
esp. As fallible. —adj. Real, not imaginary.
Flexion n. (us flection) 1 bending or being bent, esp. Of a limb or joint. 2 bent
part; curve. [latin flexio: related to *flex1]
Flick —n. 1 a light sharp blow with a whip etc. B sudden release of a bent digit,
esp. To propel a small object. 2 sudden movement or jerk, esp. Of the wrist in
throwing etc. 3 colloq. A cinema film. B (in pl.; prec. By the) the cinema. —v. 1
(often foll. By away, off) strike or move with a flick (flicked the ash off). 2 give
a flick with (a whip etc.). flick through 1 turn over (cards, pages, etc.). 2 a turn
over the pages etc. Of, by a rapid movement of the fingers. B glance through (a
book etc.). [imitative]
Flicker —v. 1 (of light or flame) shine or burn unsteadily. 2 flutter. 3 (of hope
etc.) Waver. —n. 1 flickering movement or light. 2 brief spell (of hope etc.).
flicker out die away. [old english]
Flick-knife n. Knife with a blade that springs out when a button is pressed.
Flight2 n. Fleeing, hasty retreat. put to flight cause to flee. Take (or take to)
flight flee. [old english]
Flighty adj. (-ier, -iest) (usu. Of a girl) frivolous, fickle, changeable. flightiness
n.
Flimsy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 insubstantial, rickety (flimsy structure). 2 (of an excuse
etc.) Unconvincing. 3 (of clothing) thin. flimsily adv. Flimsiness n. [origin
uncertain]
Fling —v. (past and past part. Flung) 1 throw or hurl forcefully or hurriedly. 2
(foll. By on, off) put on or take off (clothes) carelessly or rapidly. 3 put or send
suddenly or violently (was flung into jail). 4 rush, esp. Angrily (flung out of the
room). 5 (foll. By away) discard rashly. —n. 1 act of flinging; throw. 2 bout of
wild behaviour. 3 whirling scottish dance, esp. The highland fling. [old norse]
Flint n. 1 a hard grey siliceous stone. B piece of this, esp. As a primitive tool or
weapon. 2 piece of hard alloy used to give a spark. 3 anything hard and
unyielding. flinty adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english]
Flip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 flick or toss (a coin, pellet, etc.) So that it spins in the air. 2
Flip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 flick or toss (a coin, pellet, etc.) So that it spins in the air. 2
turn (a small object) over; flick. 3 slang = flip one’s lid. —n. 1 act of flipping. 2
colloq. Short trip. —adj. Colloq. Glib; flippant. flip one’s lid slang lose self-
control; go mad. Flip through = flick through. [probably from *fillip]
Flip2 n. 1 = egg-flip. 2 drink of heated beer and spirit. [perhaps from flip1]
Flip-flop n. (usu. Rubber) sandal with a thong between the toes. [imitative]
Flipper n. 1 broad flat limb of a turtle, penguin, etc., used in swimming. 2 similar
rubber foot attachment for underwater swimming. 3 slang hand.
Flirt —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By with) try to attract sexually but without serious intent.
2 (usu. Foll. By with) superficially engage in; trifle. —n. Person who flirts.
flirtation n. Flirtatious adj. Flirtatiously adv. Flirtatiousness n. [imitative]
Flit —v. (-tt-) 1 move lightly, softly, or rapidly. 2 make short flights. 3 colloq.
Disappear secretly to escape creditors etc. —n. Act of flitting. [old norse: related
to *fleet]
Flitter-mouse n. = *bat2.
Float —v. 1 a (cause to) rest or move on the surface of a liquid. B set (a stranded
ship) afloat. 2 colloq. A move in a leisurely way. B (often foll. By before) hover
before the eye or mind. 3 (often foll. By in) move or be suspended freely in a
liquid or gas. 4 a start or launch (a company, scheme, etc.). B offer (stock,
shares, etc.) On the stock market. 5 commerce cause or allow to have a
fluctuating exchange rate. 6 circulate or cause (a rumour or idea) to circulate. —
n. 1 thing that floats, esp.: a a raft. B a light object as an indicator of a fish biting
or supporting a fishing-net. C a hollow structure enabling an aircraft to float on
water. D a floating device on water, petrol, etc., controlling the level. 2 small
esp. Electrically-powered vehicle or cart (milk float). 3 decorated platform or
tableau on a lorry in a procession etc. 4 a supply of loose change in a shop, at a
fête, etc. B petty cash. 5 theatr. (in sing. Or pl.) Footlights. 6 tool for smoothing
plaster. floatable adj. [old english]
Flock1 —n. 1 animals of one kind as a group or unit. 2 large crowd of people. 3
people in the care of a priest or teacher etc. —v. (usu. Foll. By to, in, out,
together) congregate; mass; troop. [old english]
Flock2 n. 1 lock or tuft of wool, cotton, etc. 2 (also in pl.; often attrib.) Wool-
refuse etc. Used for quilting and stuffing. [latin floccus]
Floe n. Sheet of floating ice. [norwegian]
Flog v. (-gg-) 1 a beat with a whip, stick, etc. B make work through violent
effort (flogged the engine). 2 (often foll. By off) slang sell. flog a dead horse
waste one’s efforts. Flog to death colloq. Talk about or promote at tedious
length. [origin unknown]
Flood —n. 1 a overflowing or influx of water, esp. Over land; inundation. B the
water that overflows. 2 outpouring; torrent (flood of tears). 3 inflow of the tide
(also in comb.: flood-tide).
Floor —n. 1 lower supporting surface of a room. 2 a bottom of the sea, a cave,
etc. B any level area. 3 all the rooms etc. On one level of a building; storey. 4 a
(in a legislative assembly) place where members sit and speak. B right to speak
next in a debate (gave him the floor). 5 minimum of prices, wages, etc. 6 colloq.
Ground. —v. 1 provide with a floor; pave. 2 knock or bring (a person) down. 3
colloq. Confound, baffle. 4 colloq. Overcome. 5 serve as the floor of (lino
floored the hall). from the floor (of a speech etc.) Given by a member of the
audience. Take the floor 1 begin to dance. 2 speak in a debate. [old english]
Floozie n. (also floozy) (pl. -ies) colloq. Esp. Disreputable girl or woman. [origin
unknown]
Flop —v. (-pp-) 1 sway about heavily or loosely. 2 (often foll. By down, on,
into) fall or sit etc. Awkwardly or suddenly. 3 slang fail; collapse (play flopped).
4 make a dull soft thud or splash. —n. 1 flopping movement or sound. 2 slang
failure. —adv. With a flop. [var. Of *flap]
Floppy —adj. (-ier, -iest) tending to flop; flaccid. —n. (pl. -ies) (in full floppy
disk) computing flexible disc for the storage of data. floppiness n.
Flora n. (pl. -s or florae) 1 plant life of a region or period. 2 list or book of these.
[latin flora, name of the goddess of flowers]
[latin flora, name of the goddess of flowers]
Floral adj. Of, decorated with, or depicting flowers. florally adv. [latin]
Floruit —v. Flourished; lived and worked (of a painter, writer, etc., whose exact
dates are unknown). —n. Period or date of working etc. [latin, = he or she
flourished]
Floss —n. 1 rough silk of a silkworm’s cocoon. 2 silk thread used in embroidery.
3 = *dental floss. —v. (also absol.) Clean (teeth) with dental floss. flossy adj.
[french floche]
Flounce1 —v. (-cing) (often foll. By away, about, off, out) go or move angrily or
impatiently (flounced out in a huff). —n. Flouncing movement. [origin
unknown]
Flounce2 —n. Frill on a dress, skirt, etc. —v. (-cing) trim with flounces.
[alteration of frounce pleat, from french]
Flour —n. 1 meal or powder from ground wheat etc. 2 any fine powder. —v.
Sprinkle with flour. floury adj. (-ier, -iest). Flouriness n. [different spelling of
*flower ‘best part’]
Flout —v. Disobey (the law etc.) Contemptuously; mock; insult. —n. Flouting
speech or act. [dutch fluiten whistle: related to *flute]
Usage flout is often confused with flaunt which means ‘to display proudly, show
off’.
Flow —v. 1 glide along as a stream. 2 (of liquid, blood, etc.) Gush out; be spilt.
3 (of blood, money, electric current, etc.) Circulate. 4 move smoothly or steadily.
5 (of a garment, hair, etc.) Hang gracefully. 6 (often foll. By from) be caused by.
7 (esp. Of the tide) be in flood. 8 (of wine) be plentiful. 9 (foll. By with) archaic
be plentifully supplied with (flowing with milk and honey). —n. 1 a flowing
movement or mass. B flowing liquid (stop the flow). C outpouring; stream (flow
of complaints). 2 rise of a tide or river (ebb and flow). [old english]
Flow chart n. (also flow diagram or flow sheet) diagram of the movement or
action in a complex activity.
Flower —n. 1 part of a plant from which the fruit or seed is developed. 2
blossom, esp. Used for decoration. 3 plant cultivated for its flowers. —v. 1
bloom or cause (a plant) to bloom; blossom. 2 reach a peak. the flower of the
best of. In flower blooming. flowered adj. [latin flos flor-]
best of. In flower blooming. flowered adj. [latin flos flor-]
Flower-head n. = *head n. 3 c.
Flowery adj. 1 florally decorated. 2 (of style, speech, etc.) High-flown; ornate. 3
full of flowers. floweriness n.
Flowing adj. 1 (of style etc.) Fluent; easy. 2 (of a line, curve, etc.) Smoothly
continuous. 3 (of hair etc.) Unconfined. flowingly adv.
Flu n. Colloq. Influenza. [abbreviation]
Fluctuate v. (-ting) vary irregularly; rise and fall. fluctuation n. [latin fluctus
wave]
Fluent adj. 1 (of speech, style, etc.) Flowing, natural. 2 verbally facile, esp. In a
foreign language (fluent in german). fluency n. Fluently adv. [latin fluo flow]
Fluff —n. 1 soft fur, feathers, or fabric particles etc. 2 slang mistake in a
performance etc. —v. 1 (often foll. By up) shake into or become a soft mass. 2
colloq. Make a fluff; bungle. bit of fluff slang offens. Attractive woman. fluffy
adj. (-ier, -iest). Fluffiness n. [probably dial. Alteration of flue fluff]
Flugelhorn n. Valved brass wind instrument like a cornet. [german flügel wing,
horn horn]
Fluid —n. 1 substance, esp. A gas or liquid, whose shape is determined by its
confines. 2 fluid part or secretion. —adj. 1 able to flow and alter shape freely. 2
constantly changing (situation is fluid).
Fluke1 —n. Lucky accident (won by a fluke). —v. (-king) achieve by a fluke.
fluky adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin uncertain]
Fluke2 n. 1 parasitic flatworm, e.g. The liver fluke. 2 flat-fish, esp. A flounder.
[old english]
Flummery n. (pl. -ies) 1 flattery; nonsense. 2 sweet dish made with beaten eggs,
sugar, etc. [welsh llymru]
Flunkey n. (also flunky) (pl. -eys or -ies) usu. Derog. 1 liveried footman. 2
toady; snob. 3 us cook, waiter, etc. [origin uncertain]
Fluorescent lamp n. (also fluorescent bulb) esp. Tubular lamp or bulb radiating
largely by fluorescence.
Fluorspar n. = *fluorite. [fluor a mineral used as flux, from latin fluo flow]
Flurry —n. (pl. -ies) 1 gust or squall (of snow, rain, etc.). 2 sudden burst of
activity, excitement, etc.; commotion. —v. (-ies, -ied) confuse; agitate.
[imitative]
Flush1 —v. 1 blush, redden, glow warmly (he flushed with embarrassment). 2
(usu. As flushed adj.) Cause to glow or blush (often foll. By with: he was flushed
with pride). 3 a cleanse (a drain, lavatory, etc.) By a flow of water. B (often foll.
By away, down) dispose of in this way. 4 rush out, spurt. —n. 1 blush or glow. 2
a rush of water. B cleansing of a drain, lavatory, etc. Thus. 3 rush of esp. Elation
or triumph. 4 freshness; vigour. 5 a (also hot flush) sudden feeling of heat during
menopause. B feverish redness or temperature etc. —adj. 1 level, in the same
plane. 2 colloq. Having plenty of money. [perhaps = *flush3]
Flush2 n. Hand of cards all of one suit, esp. In poker. [latin fluxus *flux]
Flush3 v. 1 cause (esp. A game-bird) to fly up. 2 (of a bird) fly up and away.
flush out 1 reveal. 2 drive out. [imitative]
Fluster —v. 1 make or become nervous or confused (he flusters easily). 2 bustle.
—n. Confused or agitated state. [origin unknown]
Flutter —v. 1 flap (the wings) in flying or trying to fly. 2 fall quiveringly
(fluttered to the ground). 3 wave or flap quickly. 4 move about restlessly. 5 (of a
pulse etc.) Beat feebly or irregularly. —n. 1 act of fluttering. 2 tremulous
pulse etc.) Beat feebly or irregularly. —n. 1 act of fluttering. 2 tremulous
excitement (caused a flutter). 3 slang small bet, esp. On a horse. 4 abnormally
rapid heartbeat. 5 rapid variation of pitch, esp. Of recorded sound. [old english]
Fly1 —v. (flies; past flew; past part. Flown) 1 a (of an aircraft, bird, etc.) Move
through the air or space under control, esp. With wings. B travel through the air
or space. 2 control the flight of or transport in (esp. An aircraft). 3 a cause to fly
or remain aloft. B (of a flag, hair, etc.) Wave or flutter. 4 pass, move, or rise
quickly. 5 a flee; flee from. B colloq. Depart hastily. 6 be driven, forced, or
scattered (sent me flying). 7 (foll. By at, upon) a hasten or spring violently. B
attack or criticize fiercely. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 (usu. In pl.) A concealing flap, esp.
Over a trouser-fastening. B this fastening. 2 flap at a tent entrance. 3 (in pl.)
Space above a stage where scenery and lighting are suspended. 4 act of flying.
fly high be ambitious; prosper. Fly in the face of disregard or disobey. Fly a kite
test opinion. Fly off the handle colloq. Lose one’s temper. [old english]
Fly2 n. (pl. Flies) 1 insect with two usu. Transparent wings. 2 other winged
insect, e.g. A firefly. 3 disease of plants or animals caused by flies. 4 (esp.
Artificial) fly as bait in fishing. like flies in large numbers (usu. Of people dying
etc.). No flies on (him etc.) Colloq. (he is) very astute. [old english]
Flycatcher n. Bird catching insects during short flights from a chosen perch.
Flyer n. (also flier) colloq. 1 airman or airwoman. 2 thing that flies in a specified
way (poor flyer). 3 fast-moving animal or vehicle. 4 ambitious or outstanding
person. 5 small handbill.
Flying —adj. 1 fluttering, waving, or hanging loose. 2 hasty, brief (flying visit).
3 designed for rapid movement. 4 (of an animal) leaping with winglike
membranes etc. —n. Flight, esp. In an aircraft. with flying colours with
distinction.
Flying buttress n. (usu. Arched) buttress running from the upper part of a wall to
an outer support and transmitting the thrust of the roof or vault.
Flying fish n. Tropical fish with winglike fins for gliding through the air.
Flying start n. 1 start (of a race etc.) In which the starting-point is crossed at full
speed. 2 vigorous start (of an enterprise etc.).
Flysheet n. 1 canvas cover over a tent for extra protection. 2 short tract or
circular.
Fm symb. Fermium.
F-number n. Ratio of the focal length to the effective diameter of a camera lens.
[from focal]
Foal —n. Young of a horse or related animal. —v. Give birth to (a foal). in (or
with) foal (of a mare etc.) Pregnant. [old english]
Fob2 v. (-bb-) fob off 1 (often foll. By with a thing) deceive into accepting
something inferior. 2 (often foll. By on or on to a person) offload (an unwanted
thing). [cf. Obsolete fop dupe]
Focal adj. Of or at a focus. [latin: related to *focus]
Focal distance n. (also focal length) distance between the centre of a mirror or
lens and its focus.
Focus —n. (pl. Focuses or foci) 1 a point at which rays or waves meet after
reflection or refraction. B point from which rays etc. Appear to proceed. 2 a
point at which an object must be situated for a lens or mirror to give a well-
defined image. B adjustment of the eye or a lens to give a clear image. C state of
clear definition (out of focus). 3 = *focal point 2. —v. (-s-or -ss-) 1 bring into
focus. 2 adjust the focus of (a lens or eye). 3 concentrate or be concentrated on. 4
converge or make converge to a focus. [latin, = hearth]
Foetus n. (us fetus) (pl. -tuses) unborn mammalian offspring, esp. A human
embryo of eight weeks or more. foetal adj. [latin fetus offspring]
Fog —n. 1 thick cloud of water droplets or smoke suspended at or near the
earth’s surface. 2 cloudiness on a photographic negative etc. 3 uncertain or
confused position or state. —v. (-gg-) 1 cover or become covered with or as with
fog. 2 perplex. [perhaps a back-formation from *foggy]
Foggy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of fog. 2 of or like fog. 3 vague, indistinct. not have
the foggiest colloq. Have no idea at all. fogginess n. [perhaps from fog long
grass]
Fogy n. (also fogey) (pl. -ies or -eys) dull old-fashioned person (esp. Old fogy).
[origin unknown]
[origin unknown]
Foil2 n. 1 metal rolled into a very thin sheet. 2 person or thing setting off another
to advantage. [latin folium leaf]
Fold1 —v. 1 a bend or close (a flexible thing) over upon itself. B (foll. By back,
over, down) bend part of (a thing) (fold down the flap). 2 become or be able to
be folded. 3 (foll. By away, up) make compact by folding. 4 (often foll. By up)
colloq. Collapse, cease to function. 5 enfold (esp. Fold in the arms or to the
breast). 6 (foll. By about, round) clasp (the arms). 7 (foll. By in) mix (an
ingredient with others) gently. —n. 1 folding. 2 line made by folding. 3 folded
part. 4 hollow among hills. 5 curvature of geological strata.
-fold suffix forming adjectives and adverbs from cardinal numbers, meaning: 1
in an amount multiplied by (repaid tenfold). 2 with so many parts (threefold
blessing). [originally = ‘folded in so many layers’]
blessing). [originally = ‘folded in so many layers’]
Foliate —adj. 1 leaflike. 2 having leaves. —v. (-ting) split or beat into thin
layers. foliation n. [latin folium leaf]
Folio —n. (pl. -s) 1 leaf of paper etc., esp. Numbered only on the front. 2 sheet
of paper folded once making two leaves of a book. 3 book of such sheets. —adj.
(of a book) made of folios, of the largest size. in folio made of folios. [latin,
ablative of folium leaf]
Folk n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 (treated as pl.) People in general or of a specified class
(few folk about; townsfolk). 2 (in pl.) (usu. Folks) one’s parents or relatives. 3
(treated as sing.) A people or nation. 4 (in full folk-music) (treated as sing.)
Colloq. Traditional music or modern music in this style. 5 (attrib.) Of popular
origin (folk art). [old english]
Folksy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like folk art, culture, etc. 2 friendly, unpretentious.
folksiness n.
Follicle n. Small sac or vesicle in the body, esp. One containing a hair-root.
follicular adj. [latin diminutive of follis bellows]
Folly n. (pl. -ies) 1 foolishness. 2 foolish act, behaviour, idea, etc. 3 fanciful
ornamental building created for display. [french folie from fol mad, *fool1]
Fond adj. 1 (foll. By of) liking. 2 a affectionate. B doting. 3 (of beliefs etc.)
Foolishly optimistic or credulous. fondly adv. Fondness n. [obsolete fon fool, be
Foolishly optimistic or credulous. fondly adv. Fondness n. [obsolete fon fool, be
foolish]
Food n. 1 a substance taken in to maintain life and growth. B solid food (food
and drink). 2 mental stimulus (food for thought). [old english]
Fool1 —n. 1 rash, unwise, or stupid person. 2 hist. Jester; clown. 3 dupe. —v. 1
deceive. 2 (foll. By into or out of) trick; cheat. 3 joke or tease. 4 (foll. By about,
around) play or trifle. act (or play) the fool behave in a silly way. Be no (or
nobody’s) fool be shrewd or prudent. Make a fool of make (a person or oneself)
look foolish; trick, deceive. [latin follis bellows]
Fool2 n. Dessert of fruit purée with cream or custard. [perhaps from *fool1]
Foolhardy adj. (-ier, -iest) rashly or foolishly bold; reckless. foolhardily adv.
Foolhardiness n.
Foolscap n. Large size of paper, about 330 x 200 (or 400) mm. [from a
watermark of a fool’s cap]
Foot —n. (pl. Feet) 1 a part of the leg below the ankle. B part of a sock etc.
Covering this. 2 a lowest part of a page, stairs, etc. B end of a bed where the feet
rest. C part of a chair, appliance, etc. On which it rests. 3 step, pace, or tread
(fleet of foot). 4 (pl. Feet or foot) linear measure of 12 inches (30.48 cm). 5
metrical unit of verse forming part of a line. 6 hist. Infantry. —v. 1 pay (a bill). 2
(usu. As foot it) go or traverse on foot. feet of clay fundamental weakness in a
respected person. Have one’s (or both) feet on the ground be practical. Have one
foot in the grave be near death or very old. My foot! Int. Expressing strong
contradiction. On foot walking. Put one’s feet up colloq. Take a rest. Put one’s
foot down colloq. 1 insist firmly. 2 accelerate a vehicle. Put one’s foot in it
colloq. Make a tactless blunder. Under one’s feet in the way. Under foot on the
ground. footless adj. [old english]
Football n. 1 large inflated ball of leather or plastic. 2 outdoor team game played
with this. footballer n.
Football pool n. (also football pools pl.) Large-scale organized gambling on the
results of football matches.
Foot-fault n. (in tennis) placing of the foot over the baseline while serving.
Foothold n. 1 secure place for a foot when climbing etc. 2 secure initial position.
Footle v. (-ling) (usu. Foll. By about) colloq. Potter or fiddle about. [origin
uncertain]
Footmark n. Footprint.
Fop n. Dandy. foppery n. Foppish adj. [perhaps from obsolete fop fool]
For —prep. 1 in the interest or to the benefit of; intended to go to (did it all for
my country; these flowers are for you). 2 in defence, support, or favour of. 3
suitable or appropriate to (a dance for beginners; not for me to say). 4 in respect
of or with reference to; regarding (usual for ties to be worn; ready for bed). 5
representing or in place of (mp for lincoln; here for my uncle). 6 in exchange
with, at the price of, corresponding to (swapped it for a cake; give me £5 for it;
bought it for £5; word for word). 7 as a consequence of (fined for speeding;
decorated for bravery; here’s £5 for your trouble). 8 a with a view to; in the hope
or quest of; in order to get (go for a walk; send for a doctor; did it for the
money). B on account of (could not speak for laughing). 9 to reach; towards (left
for rome). 10 so as to start promptly at (meet at seven for eight). 11 through or
over (a distance or period); during (walked for miles). 12 as being (for the last
time; i for one refuse). 13 in spite of; notwithstanding (for all your fine words).
14 considering or making due allowance in respect of (good for a beginner). —
conj. Because, since, seeing that. be for it colloq. Be about to be punished etc.
For all (that) in spite of, although. For ever for all time (cf. *forever). [old
english reduced form of *fore]
Forage —n. 1 food for horses and cattle. 2 searching for food. —v. 1 search for
food; rummage. 2 collect food from. 3 get by foraging. [germanic: related to
*fodder]
Forasmuch as conj. Archaic because, since. [from for as much]
Foray —n. Sudden attack; raid. —v. Make a foray. [french: related to *fodder]
Forbear1 v. (past forbore; past part. Forborne) formal abstain or desist (from)
(could not forbear (from) speaking out; forbore to mention it). [old english:
related to *bear1]
Forbidden degrees n.pl. (also prohibited degrees) family relationship too close
for marriage to be permitted.
Forcible adj. Done by or involving force; forceful. forcibly adv. [french: related
to *force1]
Ford —n. Shallow place where a river or stream may be crossed by wading, in a
vehicle, etc. —v. Cross (water) at a ford. fordable adj. [old english]
Fore —adj. Situated in front. —n. Front part; bow of a ship. —int. (in golf)
warning to a person in the path of a ball. to the fore in or into a conspicuous
position. [old english]
Fore and aft —adv. At bow and stern; all over the ship. —adj. (fore-and-aft) (of
a sail or rigging) lengthwise.
Forebear n. (also forbear) (usu. In pl.) Ancestor. [from *fore, obsolete beer:
related to *be]
Forebode v. (-ding) 1 be an advance sign of, portend. 2 (often foll. By that) have
a presentiment of (usu. Evil).
Forecast —v. (past and past part. -cast or -casted) predict; estimate beforehand.
—n. Prediction, esp. Of weather. forecaster n.
Forecastle n. (also fo’c’s’le) forward part of a ship, formerly the living quarters.
Forehand n. 1 (in tennis etc.) Stroke played with the palm of the hand facing
forward. 2 (attrib.) (also forehanded) of or made with a forehand.
forward. 2 (attrib.) (also forehanded) of or made with a forehand.
Foreign adj. 1 of, from, in, or characteristic of, a country or language other than
one’s own. 2 dealing with other countries (foreign service). 3 of another district,
society, etc. 4 (often foll. By to) unfamiliar, alien. 5 coming from outside
(foreign body). foreignness n. [latin foris outside]
Foreland n. Cape, promontory.
Forelock n. Lock of hair just above the forehead. touch one’s forelock defer to a
person of higher social rank.
Foremost —adj. 1 most notable, best. 2 first, front. —adv. Most importantly
(first and foremost). [old english]
Forenoon n. Morning.
Foreshorten v. Show or portray (an object) with the apparent shortening due to
visual perspective.
visual perspective.
Forest —n. 1 (often attrib.) Large area of trees and undergrowth. 2 trees in this. 3
large number or dense mass. —v. 1 plant with trees. 2 convert into a forest. [latin
forestis: related to *foreign]
Foretell v. (past and past part. -told) 1 predict, prophesy. 2 indicate the approach
of.
Forever adv. Continually, persistently (is forever complaining) (cf. For ever).
Forge2 v. (-ging) move forward gradually or steadily. forge ahead 1 take the
lead. 2 progress rapidly. [perhaps an alteration of *force1]
Forget v. (forgetting; past forgot; past part. Forgotten or us forgot) 1 (often foll.
By about) lose remembrance of; not remember. 2 neglect or overlook. 3 cease to
think of. forget oneself 1 act without dignity. 2 act selflessly. forgettable adj.
[old english]
Forgive v. (-ving; past forgave; past part. Forgiven) 1 cease to feel angry or
resentful towards; pardon. 2 remit (a debt). forgivable adj. [old english]
Forgo v. (also forego) (-goes; past -went; past part. -gone) go without;
relinquish. [old english]
Fork —n. 1 pronged item of cutlery. 2 similar large tool used for digging, lifting,
etc. 3 forked support for a bicycle wheel. 4 a divergence of a branch, road, etc.
Into two parts. B place of this. C either part. —v. 1 form a fork or branch by
separating into two parts. 2 take one road at a fork. 3 dig, lift, etc., with a fork.
fork out slang pay, esp. Reluctantly. [latin furca pitchfork]
Fork-lift truck n. Vehicle with a fork for lifting and carrying loads.
Forlorn adj. 1 sad and abandoned. 2 in a pitiful state. forlornly adv. [lorn = past
part. Of obsolete leese *lose]
Forlorn hope n. Faint remaining hope or chance. [dutch verloren hoop lost troop]
Form comb. Form (usu. As -iform) forming adjectives meaning: 1 having the
form of (cruciform). 2 having so many forms (multiform).
Formalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 give definite (esp. Legal) form to. 2
make formal. formalization n.
Format —n. 1 shape and size (of a book, etc.). 2 style or manner of procedure
etc. 3 computing arrangement of data etc. —v. (-tt-) 1 arrange or put into a
format. 2 computing prepare (a storage medium) to receive data. [latin formatus
shaped: related to *form]
Forme n. Printing body of type secured in a chase ready for printing. [var. Of
*form]
Former attrib. Adj. 1 of the past, earlier, previous (in former times). 2 (the
former) (often absol.) The first or first-mentioned of two. [related to *foremost]
Formica n. Propr. Hard durable plastic laminate used for surfaces. [origin
uncertain]
Formic acid n. Colourless irritant volatile acid contained in fluid emitted by ants;
methanoic acid. [latin formica ant]
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
common but considered incorrect by some people.
Fornicate v. (-ting) archaic or joc. (of people not married to each other) have
sexual intercourse. fornication n. Fornicator n. [latin fornix brothel]
Forsake v. (-king; past forsook; past part. Forsaken) literary 1 give up; renounce.
2 desert, abandon. [old english]
Forsooth adv. Archaic or joc. Truly; no doubt. [old english: related to for, sooth]
Forsythia n. Shrub with bright yellow flowers in early spring. [forsyth, name of a
botanist]
Forte2 mus. —adj. Loud. —adv. Loudly. —n. Loud playing or passage. [italian:
related to *fort]
Forth adv. Archaic except in set phrases 1 forward; into view (bring forth; come
forth). 2 onwards in time (from this time forth). 3 forwards (back and forth). 4
out from a starting-point (set forth). and so forth see *so1. [old english]
Fortissimo mus. —adj. Very loud. —adv. Very loudly. —n. (pl. -s or -mi) very
loud playing or passage. [italian, superlative of *forte2]
Fortran n. (also fortran) computer language used esp. For scientific calculations.
[from formula translation]
Forty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 four times ten. 2 symbol for this (40, xl, xl). 3 (in pl.)
Numbers from 40 to 49, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life. fortieth
adj. & n. [old english: related to *four]
Forward —adj. 1 onward; towards the front. 2 lying in the direction in which one
is moving. 3 precocious; bold; presumptuous. 4 relating to the future (forward
contract). 5 a approaching maturity or completion. B (of a plant etc.) Early. —n.
Attacking player near the front in football, hockey, etc. —adv. 1 to the front; into
prominence (come forward; move forward). 2 in advance; ahead (sent them
forward). 3 onward so as to make progress (no further forward). 4 towards the
future (from this time forward). 5 (also forwards) a towards the front in the
direction one is facing. B in the normal direction of motion. C with continuous
forward motion (rushing forward). —v. 1 a send (a letter etc.) On to a further
destination. B dispatch (goods etc.). 2 help to advance; promote. [old english:
related to *forth, *-ward]
Foul play n. 1 unfair play in games. 2 treacherous or violent act, esp. Murder.
Found3 v. 1 a melt and mould (metal). B fuse (materials for glass). 2 make by
founding. founder n. [latin fundo fus-pour]
Founder v. 1 (of a ship) fill with water and sink. 2 (of a plan etc.) Fail. 3 (of a
horse or its rider) stumble, fall lame, stick in mud etc. [related to *found2]
Fount2 n. (also font) set of printing-type of same face and size. [french: related
to *found3]
Fountain-head n. Source.
Four adj. & n. 1 one more than three. 2 symbol for this (4, iv, iv). 3 size etc.
Denoted by four. 4 team or crew of four; four-oared rowing-boat. 5 four o’clock.
on all fours on hands and knees. [old english]
Fourfold adj. & adv. 1 four times as much or as many. 2 of four parts.
Fourteen adj. & n. 1 one more than thirteen. 2 symbol for this (14, xiv, xiv). 3
size etc. Denoted by fourteen. fourteenth adj. & n. [old english: related to four, -
teen]
Fourth adj. & n. 1 next after third. 2 any of four equal parts of a thing. fourthly
adv. [old english: related to *four]
Fowl —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 chicken kept for eggs and meat. 2 poultry as food. 3
archaic (except in comb.) Bird (guineafowl; wildfowl). —v. Catch or hunt
wildfowl. [old english]
Fox —n. 1 a wild canine animal with a bushy tail and red or grey fur. B its fur. 2
cunning person. —v. 1 deceive, baffle, trick. 2 (usu. As foxed adj.) Discolour
(leaves of a book etc.) With brownish marks. foxlike adj. [old english]
Foxtrot —n. 1 ballroom dance with slow and quick steps. 2 music for this. —v.
(-tt-) perform this.
Foxy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 foxlike. 2 sly or cunning. 3 reddish-brown. foxily adv.
Foxiness n.
Foyer n. Entrance-hall in a hotel, theatre, etc. [french, = hearth, home, from latin
*focus]
Fr symb. Francium.
Fraction n. 1 part of a whole number (e.g. 1/2, 0.5). 2 small part, piece, or
amount. 3 portion of a mixture obtained by distillation etc. fractional adj.
Fractionally adv. [latin frango fract-break]
Fracture —n. Breakage, esp. Of a bone or cartilage. —v. (-ring) cause a fracture
in; suffer fracture. [latin: related to *fraction]
Fragile adj. 1 easily broken; weak. 2 delicate; not strong. fragility n. [latin:
related to *fracture]
Fragment —n. 1 part broken off. 2 extant remains or unfinished portion (of a
book etc.). —v. Break or separate into fragments. fragmental adj. Fragmentary
adj. Fragmentation n. [latin: related to *fraction]
Frail adj. 1 fragile, delicate. 2 morally weak. frailly adv. Frailness n. [latin:
related to *fragile]
related to *fragile]
Frame —n. 1 case or border enclosing a picture, window, door, etc. 2 basic rigid
supporting structure of a building, vehicle, etc. 3 (in pl.) Structure of spectacles
holding the lenses. 4 human or animal body, esp. As large or small. 5 a
established order or system (the frame of society). B construction, build,
structure. 6 temporary state (esp. In frame of mind). 7 single complete image on
a cinema film or transmitted in a series of lines by television. 8 a triangular
structure for positioning balls in snooker etc. B round of play in snooker etc. 9
boxlike structure of glass etc. For protecting plants. 10 us slang = *frame-up. —
v. (-ming) 1 a set in a frame. B serve as a frame for. 2 construct, put together,
devise. 3 (foll. By to, into) adapt or fit. 4 slang concoct a false charge or
evidence against; devise a plot against. 5 articulate (words). [old english, = be
helpful]
Franciscan —adj. Of st francis or his order. —n. Franciscan friar or nun. [latin
franciscus francis]
Franglais n. Corrupt version of french using many english words and idioms.
[french français french, anglais english]
Frank n. Member of the germanic people that conquered gaul in the 6th c.
frankish adj. [old english]
Fraternize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (often foll. By with) 1 associate; make
friends. 2 enter into friendly relations with enemies etc. fraternization n. [french
and latin: related to *fraternal]
Fraught adj. 1 (foll. By with) filled or charged with (danger etc.). 2 colloq.
Distressing; tense. [dutch vracht *freight]
Fray1 v. 1 wear through or become worn; esp. (of woven material) unravel at the
edge. 2 (of nerves, temper, etc.) Become strained. [latin frico rub]
Freak —n. 1 (often attrib.) Monstrosity; abnormal person or thing (freak storm).
2 colloq. A unconventional person. B fanatic of a specified kind (health freak). C
drug addict. —v. (often foll. By out) colloq. 1 become or make very angry. 2
(cause to) undergo hallucinations etc., esp. As a result of drug abuse. 3 adopt an
unconventional lifestyle. freakish adj. Freaky adj. (-ier, -iest). [probably from
dial.]
Freckle —n. Small light brown spot on the skin. —v. (-ling) (usu. As freckled
adj.) Spot or be spotted with freckles. freckly adj. [old norse]
Free —adj. (freer; freest) 1 not a slave or under another’s control; having
personal rights and social and political liberty. 2 (of a state, its citizens, etc.)
Autonomous; democratic. 3 a unrestricted; not confined or fixed. B not
imprisoned. C released from duties etc. D independent (free agent). 4 (foll. By
of, from) a exempt from (tax etc.). B not containing or subject to (free of
preservatives; free from disease). 5 (foll. By to + infin.) Permitted; at liberty to. 6
costing nothing. 7 a clear of duties etc. (am free tomorrow). B not in use
(bathroom is free). 8 spontaneous, unforced (free offer). 9 available to all. 10
lavish (free with their money). 11 frank, unreserved. 12 (of literary style)
informal, unmetrical. 13 (of translation) not literal. 14 familiar, impudent. 15 (of
stories etc.) Slightly indecent. 16 chem. Not combined (free oxygen). 17 (of
power or energy) disengaged, available. —adv. 1 freely. 2 without cost or
payment. —v. (frees, freed) 1 make free; liberate. 2 (foll. By of, from) relieve
from. 3 disentangle, clear. for free colloq. Free of charge, gratis. Free on board
(or rail) without charge for delivery to a ship or railway wagon. freely adv. [old
english]
Freefone n. (also freefone, -phone) system whereby certain telephone calls, esp.
Freefone n. (also freefone, -phone) system whereby certain telephone calls, esp.
On business, can be made without cost to the caller.
Freehand —adj. (of a drawing etc.) Done without special instruments. —adv. In
a freehand manner.
Freeman n. 1 person who has the freedom of a city etc. 2 person who is not a
slave or serf.
Free port n. 1 port without customs duties. 2 port open to all traders.
Free radical n. Chem. Atom or group of atoms with one or more unpaired
electrons.
Free-range adj. 1 (of hens etc.) Roaming freely; not kept in a battery. 2 (of eggs)
produced by such hens.
Freesia n. African bulb with fragrant flowers. [freese, name of a physician]
Freeway n. Us motorway.
Free wheel n. Driving wheel of a bicycle, able to revolve with the pedals at rest.
Free-wheel v. 1 ride a bicycle with the pedals at rest. 2 act without constraint.
Freeze —v. (-zing; past froze; past part. Frozen) 1 a turn into ice or another solid
by cold. B make or become rigid from the cold. 2 be or feel very cold. 3 cover or
become covered with ice. 4 (foll. By to, together) adhere by frost. 5 refrigerate
(food) below freezing point. 6 a make or become motionless through fear,
surprise, etc. B (as frozen adj) devoid of emotion (frozen smile). 7 make (assets
etc.) Unrealizable. 8 fix (prices, wages, etc.) At a certain level. 9 stop (the
movement in a film). —n. 1 period or state of frost. 2 fixing or stabilization of
prices, wages, etc. 3 (in full freeze-frame) still film-shot. freeze up obstruct or be
obstructed by ice. [old english]
Freezer n. Refrigerated cabinet etc. For preserving frozen food at very low
temperatures.
Freezing point n. Temperature at which a liquid, esp. Water, freezes.
French bean n. Kidney or haricot bean as unripe sliced pods or ripe seeds.
French chalk n. A kind of talc used for marking cloth, as a dry lubricant, etc.
French fried potatoes n.pl. (or french fries) us potato chips.
Frenchify v. (-ies, -ied) (usu. As frenchified adj.) Colloq. Make french in form,
manners, etc.
Frenzy —n. (pl. -ies) wild or delirious excitement, agitation, or fury. —v. (-ies, -
ied) (usu. As frenzied adj.) Drive to frenzy. frenziedly adv. [medieval latin:
related to *frenetic]
Fresco n. (pl. -s) painting done in water-colour on a wall or ceiling before the
plaster is dry. [italian, = fresh]
Fresh —adj. 1 newly made or obtained. 2 a other, different; new (start a fresh
page; fresh ideas). B additional (fresh supplies). 3 (foll. By from) lately arrived.
4 not stale, musty, or faded. 5 (of food) not preserved; newly caught, grown, etc.
6 not salty (fresh water). 7 a pure, untainted, refreshing (fresh air). B bright and
pure in colour (fresh complexion). 8 (of wind) brisk. 9 colloq. Cheeky;
amorously impudent. 10 inexperienced. —adv. Newly, recently (esp. In comb.:
fresh-baked). freshly adv. Freshness n. [old english fersc and french freis]
Freshen v. 1 make or become fresh. 2 (foll. By up) a wash, tidy oneself, etc. B
revive.
Freshet n. 1 rush of fresh water flowing into the sea. 2 flood of a river.
Freshman n. = *fresher.
Fret2 —n. Ornamental pattern of straight lines joined usu. At right angles. —v.
(-tt-) embellish with a fret or with carved or embossed work. [french freter]
Fretful adj. Anxious, irritable. fretfully adv.
Friday —n. Day of the week following thursday. —adv. Colloq. 1 on friday. 2
(fridays) on fridays; each friday. [old english]
Friend n. 1 person one likes and chooses to spend time with (usu. Without sexual
or family bonds). 2 sympathizer, helper. 3 ally or neutral person (friend or foe?).
4 person already mentioned (our friend at the bank). 5 regular supporter of an
institution. 6 (friend) quaker. [old english]
Friendly match n. Match played for enjoyment rather than competition.
Friesian n. One of a breed of black and white dairy cattle orig. From friesland.
[var. Of *frisian]
Frighten v. 1 fill with fright (the bang frightened me; frightened of dogs). 2 (foll.
By away, off, out of, into) drive by fright. frightening adj. Frighteningly adv.
By away, off, out of, into) drive by fright. frightening adj. Frighteningly adv.
Fringe —n. 1 border of tassels or loose threads. 2 front hair hanging over the
forehead. 3 outer limit of an area, population, etc. (often attrib.: fringe theatre). 4
unimportant area or part. —v. (-ging) 1 adorn with a fringe. 2 serve as a fringe
to. [latin fimbria]
Frippery n. (pl. -ies) 1 showy finery, esp. In dress. 2 empty display in speech,
literary style, etc. 3 (usu. In pl.) Knick-knacks. [french friperie]
Frisbee n. Propr. Concave plastic disc for skimming through the air as an
outdoor game. [perhaps from frisbie bakery pie-tins]
Frisian —adj. Of friesland. —n. Native or language of friesland. [latin frisii (n.
Frisian —adj. Of friesland. —n. Native or language of friesland. [latin frisii (n.
Pl.) From old frisian frisa]
Frisk —v. 1 leap or skip playfully. 2 slang search (a person) for a weapon etc.
By feeling. —n. 1 playful leap or skip. 2 slang frisking of a person. [french
frisque lively]
Fritillary n. (pl. -ies) 1 plant with bell-like flowers. 2 butterfly with red-brown
wings chequered with black. [latin fritillus dice-box]
Fritter1 v. (usu. Foll. By away) waste (money, time, etc.) Triflingly. [obsolete
fritter(s) fragments]
Fritter2 n. Fruit, meat, etc. Coated in batter and fried. [french friture from latin
frigo *fry1]
Frivolous adj. 1 not serious, silly, shallow. 2 paltry, trifling. frivolity n. (pl. -ies).
Frivolously adv. Frivolousness n. [latin]
Frizz —v. Form (hair) into tight curls. —n. Frizzed hair or state. [french friser]
Frizzle1 v. (-ling) 1 fry or cook with a sizzling noise. 2 (often foll. By up) burn
or shrivel. [obsolete frizz: related to *fry1, with imitative ending]
Frizzle2 —v. (-ling) form into tight curls. —n. Frizzled hair. [perhaps related to
*frizz]
Fro adv. Back (now only in to and fro: see *to). [old norse: related to *from]
Frog2 n. Horny substance in the sole of a horse’s foot. [origin uncertain: perhaps
a use of *frog1]
Frogman n. Person with a rubber suit, flippers, and an oxygen supply for
underwater swimming.
Frolic —v. (-ck-) play about cheerfully. —n. 1 cheerful play. 2 prank. 3 merry
party. [dutch vrolijk (adj.) From vro glad]
From prep. Expressing separation or origin, followed by: 1 person, place, time,
etc., that is the starting-point (dinner is served from 8; from start to finish). 2
place, object, etc. At a specified distance etc. (10 miles from rome; far from
sure). 3 a source (gravel from a pit; quotations from shaw). B giver or sender
(not heard from her). 4 thing or person avoided, deprived, etc. (released him
from prison; took his gun from him). 5 reason, cause, motive (died from fatigue;
did it from jealousy). 6 thing distinguished or unlike (know black from white). 7
lower limit (from 10 to 20 boats). 8 state changed for another (from being poor
he became rich). 9 adverb or preposition of time or place (from long ago; from
abroad; from under the bed). from time to time occasionally. [old english]
Front —n. 1 side or part most prominent or important, or nearer the spectator or
direction of motion (front of the house). 2 a line of battle. B ground towards an
enemy. C scene of actual fighting. 3 a activity compared to a military front. B
organized political group. 4 demeanour, bearing. 5 forward or conspicuous
position. 6 a bluff. B pretext. 7 person etc. As a cover for subversive or illegal
activities. 8 promenade. 9 forward edge of advancing cold or warm air. 10
auditorium of a theatre. 11 breast of a garment (spilt food down his front). —
attrib. Adj. 1 of the front. 2 situated in front. —v. 1 (foll. By on, to, towards,
upon) have the front facing or directed towards. 2 (foll. By for) slang act as a
front or cover for. 3 provide with or have a front (fronted with stone). 4 lead (a
band, organization, etc.). in front in an advanced or facing position. In front of 1
ahead of, in advance of. 2 in the presence of. [latin frons front-face]
Frontal adj. 1 of or on the front (frontal view; frontal attack). 2 of the forehead
(frontal bone).
Frosting n. Icing.
Frosty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 cold with frost. 2 covered with or as with frost. 3
unfriendly in manner. frostily adv. Frostiness n.
Froth —n. 1 foam. 2 idle or amusing talk etc. —v. 1 emit or gather froth. 2 cause
(beer etc.) To foam. frothy adj. (-ier, -iest). [old norse]
Frowzy adj. (also frowsy) (-ier, -iest) 1 fusty. 2 slatternly, dingy. [origin
unknown]
Fructify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 bear fruit. 2 make fruitful. [latin: related to *fruit]
Frugal adj. 1 sparing or thrifty, esp. As regards food. 2 meagre, cheap. frugality
n. Frugally adv. [latin]
Fruity adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a of fruit. B tasting or smelling like fruit. 2 (of a voice
etc.) Deep and rich. 3 colloq. Slightly indecent or suggestive. fruitily adv.
Fruitiness n.
Frump n. Dowdy unattractive woman. frumpish adj. Frumpy adj. (-ier, -iest).
[perhaps dial. Frumple wrinkle]
Frustum n. (pl. -ta or -s) geom. Remaining part of a decapitated cone or pyramid.
[latin, = piece cut off]
Fry1 —v. (fries, fried) cook or be cooked in hot fat. —n. (pl. Fries) 1 offal, usu.
Eaten fried (lamb’s fry). 2 fried food, esp. Meat. [latin frigo]
Fryer n. (also frier) 1 person who fries. 2 vessel for frying esp. Fish.
Frying-pan n. Shallow pan used in frying. out of the frying-pan into the fire from
a bad situation to a worse one.
Fry-up n. Colloq. Fried bacon, eggs, etc.
Ft-se abbr. Financial times stock exchange 100 share index (based on the share
values of britain’s largest public companies).
Fuchsia n. Shrub with drooping red, purple, or white flowers. [fuchs, name of a
botanist]
Fuck coarse slang —v. 1 (often absol. Or as int. Expressing annoyance) curse (a
person or thing). 2 have sexual intercourse (with). 3 (foll. By about, around)
mess about; fool around. 4 (as fucking adj., adv.) Expressing annoyance etc. —n.
1 a act of sexual intercourse. B partner in this. 2 slightest amount (don’t give a
fuck). fuck-all nothing. Fuck off go away. Fuck up 1 bungle. 2 disturb
emotionally. fucker n. (often as a term of abuse). [origin unknown]
Usage although widely used, fuck is still considered to be the most offensive
word in the english language by many people. In discussions about bad language
it is frequently referred to as the ‘f’ word.
Fuddle —v. (-ling) confuse or stupefy, esp. With alcohol. —n. 1 confusion. 2
intoxication. [origin unknown]
Fuddy-duddy slang —adj. Old-fashioned or quaintly fussy. —n. (pl. -ies) such a
person. [origin unknown]
Fudge —n. 1 soft toffee-like sweet made of milk, sugar, butter, etc. 2 piece of
dishonesty or faking. —v. (-ging) make or do clumsily or dishonestly; fake
(fudge the results). [origin uncertain]
Fuel —n. 1 material for burning or as a source of heat, power, or nuclear energy.
2 food as a source of energy. 3 thing that sustains or inflames passion etc. —v. (-
ll-; us -l-) 1 supply with, take in, or get, fuel. 2 inflame (feeling etc.). [french
from latin]
Fugitive —n. (often foll. By from) person who flees, e.g. From justice or an
enemy. —adj. 1 fleeing. 2 transient, fleeting. [latin fugio flee]
-ful comb. Form forming: 1 adjectives from a nouns, meaning full of or having
qualities of (beautiful; masterful). B adjectives (direful). C verbs, meaning ‘apt
to’ (forgetful). 2 nouns (pl. -fuls) meaning ‘amount that fills’ (handful;
spoonful).
Fulfil v. (us fulfill) (-ll-) 1 carry out (a task, prophecy, promise, etc.). 2 a satisfy
(conditions, a desire, prayer, etc.). B (as fulfilled adj.) Completely happy. 3
answer (a purpose). fulfil oneself realize one’s potential. fulfilment n. [old
english: related to *full1, *fill]
Fulfill v. (brit. Fulfil) (-ll-) 1 carry out (a task, prophecy, promise, etc.). 2 a
satisfy (conditions, a desire, prayer, etc.). B (as fulfilled adj.) Completely happy.
3 answer (a purpose). fulfil oneself realize one’s potential. fulfilment n. [old
english: related to *full1, *fill]
Full1 —adj. 1 holding all it can (bucket is full; full of water). 2 having eaten all
one can or wants. 3 abundant, copious, satisfying (a full life; full details). 4 (foll.
By of) having an abundance of (full of vitality). 5 (foll. By of) engrossed in (full
of himself). 6 complete, perfect (full membership; in full bloom). 7 (of tone)
deep and clear. 8 plump, rounded (full figure). 9 (of clothes) ample, hanging in
folds. —adv. 1 very (knows full well). 2 quite, fully (full six miles). 3 exactly
(full on the nose). full up colloq. Completely full. In full 1 without abridgement.
2 to or for the full amount
Full back n. Defensive player near the goal in football, hockey, etc.
Fuller n. Person who fulls cloth. fuller’s earth type of clay used in fulling. [latin
fullo]
Full-frontal adj. 1 (of a nude figure) fully exposed at the front. 2 explicit,
unrestrained.
Full house n. 1 maximum attendance at a theatre etc. 2 hand in poker with three
of a kind and a pair.
Full-length adj. 1 not shortened. 2 (of a mirror, portrait, etc.) Showing the whole
figure.
Full moon n. 1 moon with its whole disc illuminated. 2 time of this.
Fullness n. Being full. the fullness of time the appropriate or destined time.
Full-time —adj. For or during the whole of the working week (full-time job). —
adv. On a full-time basis (work full-time).
Fully adv. 1 completely, entirely (am fully aware). 2 at least (fully 60).
Fulmar n. Arctic sea bird related to the petrel. [old norse: related to *foul, mar
gull]
Usage the phrase fulsome praise is sometimes wrongly used to mean generous
praise rather than excessive praise.
Fumble —v. (-ling) 1 use the hands awkwardly, grope about. 2 handle clumsily
or nervously (fumbled the ball). —n. Act of fumbling. [low german fummeln]
Fume —n. (usu. In pl.) Exuded gas, smoke, or vapour, esp. When harmful or
unpleasant. —v. (-ming) 1 emit fumes or as fumes. 2 be very angry. 3 subject
(oak, film, etc.) To fumes to darken. [latin fumus smoke]
Usage the use of fun as an attributive adjective is common in informal use, but is
considered incorrect by some people.
Funicular —adj. (of a mountain railway) operating by cable with ascending and
descending cars counterbalanced. —n. Funicular railway. [latin funiculus
diminutive of funis rope]
Funk1 slang —n. 1 fear, panic. 2 coward. —v. 1 evade through fear. 2 be afraid
(of). [origin uncertain]
Funky adj. (-ier, -iest) slang (esp. Of jazz or rock music) earthy, bluesy, with a
heavy rhythm.
Funnel —n. 1 tube widening at the top, for pouring liquid etc. Into a small
opening. 2 metal chimney on a steam engine or steamship. —v. (-ll-; us -l-)
guide or move through or as through a funnel. [provençal fonilh from latin
(in)fundibulum]
Funny-bone n. Part of the elbow over which a very sensitive nerve passes.
Fur —n. 1 a short fine soft animal hair. B hide with fur on it, used esp. For
clothing. 2 garment of or lined with fur. 3 (collect.) Animals with fur. 4 fur-like
coating on the tongue, in a kettle, etc. —v. (-rr-) 1 (esp. As furred adj.) Line or
trim with fur. 2 (often foll. By up) (of a kettle etc.) Become coated with fur.
make the fur fly colloq. Cause a disturbance, stir up trouble. [french from
germanic]
Furcate —adj. Forked, branched. —v. (-ting) fork, divide. furcation n. [latin:
related to *fork]
Furious adj. 1 very angry. 2 raging, frantic. furiously adv. [latin: related to *fury]
Furl v. 1 roll up and secure (a sail etc.). 2 become furled. [french ferler]
Furlong n. Eighth of a mile. [old english: related to furrow, long1]
Furlough —n. Leave of absence, esp. Military. —v. Us 1 grant furlough to. 2
spend furlough. [dutch: related to for-, leave1]
Furnish v. 1 provide (a house, room, etc.) With furniture. 2 (often foll. By with)
supply. [french from germanic]
Furore n. (us furor) 1 uproar; fury. 2 enthusiastic admiration. [latin: related to
*fury]
Furrow —n. 1 narrow trench made by a plough. 2 rut, groove, wrinkle. 3 ship’s
track. —v. 1 plough. 2 make furrows in. [old english]
Usage the form farther is used esp. With reference to physical distance, although
further is preferred by many people even in this sense.
Furthest (also farthest) —adj. Most distant. —adv. To or at the greatest distance.
Usage the form farthest is used esp. With reference to physical distance,
although furthest is preferred by many people even in this sense.
Furtive adj. Sly, stealthy. furtively adv. Furtiveness n. [latin fur thief]
Fury n. (pl. -ies) 1 a wild and passionate anger. B fit of rage. 2 violence of a
storm, disease, etc. 3 (fury) (usu. In pl.) (in greek mythology) avenging goddess.
4 avenging spirit. 5 angry or malignant woman. like fury colloq. With great force
or effort. [latin furia]
Fuse1 —v. (-sing) 1 melt with intense heat. 2 blend into one whole by melting. 3
provide (an electric circuit) with a fuse. 4 a (of an appliance) fail owing to the
melting of a fuse. B cause to do this. —n. Device with a strip or wire of easily
melted metal placed in an electric circuit so as to interrupt an excessive current
by melting. [latin fundo fus-melt]
Fuse2 (also fuze) —n. 1 device of combustible matter for igniting a bomb or
explosive charge. 2 component made of this in a shell, mine, etc. —v. (-sing) fit
a fuse to. [latin fusus spindle]
Fusible adj. That can be melted. fusibility n. [latin: related to *fuse1]
Fuss —n. 1 excited commotion, bustle. 2 excessive concern about a trivial thing.
3 sustained protest or dispute. —v. 1 behave with nervous concern. 2 agitate,
worry. make a fuss complain vigorously.
Fustian —n. 1 thick usu. Dark twilled cotton cloth. 2 bombast. —adj. 1 made of
fustian. 2 bombastic. 3 worthless. [french]
Fusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 musty, stuffy. 2 antiquated. fustiness n. [french fust cask,
from latin fustis cudgel]
Futile adj. 1 useless, ineffectual. 2 frivolous. futility n. [latin futilis leaky, futile]
Futon n. Japanese quilted mattress used as a bed; this sold with a low wooden
frame, often convertible into a couch. [japanese]
Future —adj. 1 about to happen, be, or become. 2 a of time to come. B gram. (of
a tense) describing an event yet to happen. —n. 1 time to come. 2 future events.
3 future condition of a person, country, etc. 4 prospect of success etc. (no future
in it). 5 gram. Future tense. 6 (in pl.) Stock exch. Goods etc. Sold for future
delivery. in future from now onwards. [latin futurus future part. Of sum be]
Future perfect n. Gram. Tense giving the sense ‘will have done’.
Futurity n. (pl. -ies) literary 1 future time. 2 (in sing. Or pl.) Future events.
Fuzz n. 1 fluff. 2 fluffy or frizzed hair. 3 slang a (prec. By the) the police. B
police officer. [probably low german or dutch]
Fuzzy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like fuzz, fluffy. 2 blurred, indistinct. fuzzily adv.
Fuzziness n.
-fy suffix forming: 1 verbs from nouns, meaning: a make, produce (pacify). B
make into (deify; petrify). 2 verbs from adjectives, meaning ‘bring or come into
a state’ (frenchify; solidify). 3 verbs in a causative sense (horrify; stupefy).
[french -fier from latin facio make]
G1 n. (also g) (pl. Gs or g’s) 1 seventh letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Fifth note of
the diatonic scale of c major.
G7 attrib. Adj. Designating the world’s seven richest nations. [group of seven]
Ga symb. Gallium.
Gabble —v. (-ling) talk or utter unintelligibly or too fast. —n. Fast unintelligible
talk. [dutch, imitative]
Gable n. 1 triangular upper part of a wall at the end of a ridged roof. 2 gable-
topped wall. gabled adj. [old norse and french]
Gadfly n. 1 fly that bites cattle and horses. 2 irritating person. [obsolete gad
spike]
Gaelic —n. Celtic language of ireland and scotland. —adj. Of the celts or the
celtic languages.
Gaff1 —n. 1 a stick with an iron hook for landing large fish. B barbed fishing-
Gaff1 —n. 1 a stick with an iron hook for landing large fish. B barbed fishing-
spear. 2 spar to which the head of a fore-and-aft sail is bent. —v. Seize (a fish)
with a gaff. [provençal gaf hook]
Gaff2 n. Slang blow the gaff reveal a plot or secret. [origin unknown]
Gag —n. 1 thing thrust into or tied across the mouth, esp. To prevent speaking or
crying out. 2 joke or comic scene. 3 parliamentary closure. 4 thing restricting
free speech. —v. (-gg-) 1 apply a gag to. 2 silence; deprive of free speech. 3
choke, retch. 4 make gags as a comedian etc. [origin uncertain]
Gage2 (brit. Gauge: see also sense 6) —n. 1 standard measure, esp. Of the
capacity or contents of a barrel, fineness of a textile, diameter of a bullet, or
thickness of sheet metal. 2 instrument for measuring pressure, width, length,
thickness, etc. 3 distance between rails or opposite wheels. 4 capacity, extent. 5
criterion, test. 6 (usu. Gage) naut. Position relative to the wind. —v. (-ging) 1
measure exactly. 2 measure the capacity or content of. 3 estimate (a person,
situation, etc.). [french]
Gaily adv. In a gay or careless manner (gaily decorated; gaily announced their
departure).
Gain —v. 1 obtain or win (gain advantage; gain recognition). 2 acquire as profits
etc., earn. 3 (often foll. By in) get more of, improve (gain momentum; gain in
experience). 4 benefit, profit. 5 (of a clock etc.) Become fast; become fast by (a
specified amount of time). 6 (often foll. By on, upon) come closer to a person or
thing pursued. 7 a reclaim (land from the sea). B win (a battle). 8 reach (a
desired place). —n. 1 increase of wealth etc.; profit, improvement. 2 (in pl.)
Sums of money got by trade etc. 3 increase in amount. gain ground 1 advance. 2
(foll. By on) catch up (a person pursued). [french from germanic]
Gaiter n. Covering of cloth, leather, etc., for the lower leg. [french guêtre]
Gaiter n. Covering of cloth, leather, etc., for the lower leg. [french guêtre]
Galantine n. White meat boned, stuffed, spiced, etc., and served cold. [french
from latin]
Galaxy n. (pl. -ies) 1 independent system of stars, gas, dust, etc., in space. 2 (the
galaxy) milky way. 3 (foll. By of) brilliant company (galaxy of talent). [greek
gala milk]
Gallery n. (pl. -ies) 1 room or building for showing works of art. 2 balcony, esp.
In a church, hall, etc. (minstrels’ gallery). 3 highest balcony in a theatre. 4 a
covered walk partly open at the side; colonnade. B narrow passage in the
thickness of a wall or on corbels, open towards the interior of the building. 5
long narrow room or passage (shooting-gallery). 6 horizontal underground
passage in a mine etc. 7 group of spectators at a golf-match etc. play to the
gallery seek to win approval by appealing to popular taste. [french galerie]
Galley n. (pl. -s) 1 hist. A long flat single-decked vessel usu. Rowed by slaves or
criminals. B ancient greek or roman warship. 2 ship’s or aircraft’s kitchen. 3
printing (in full galley proof) proof in continuous form before division into
pages. [latin galea]
Galley-slave n. Drudge.
Gallic adj. 1 french or typically french. 2 of gaul or the gauls. [latin gallicus]
Gallinaceous adj. Of the order including domestic poultry, pheasants, etc. [latin
gallina hen]
Gallon n. 1 measure of capacity equal to eight pints (4.5 litres; for wine, or us,
3.8 litres). 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Large amount. [french]
Gallop —n. 1 fastest pace of a horse etc., with all the feet off the ground together
in each stride. 2 ride at this pace. —v. (-p-) 1 a (of a horse etc. Or its rider) go at
a gallop. B make (a horse etc.) Gallop. 2 read, talk, etc., fast. 3 progress rapidly
(galloping inflation). [french: related to *wallop]
Gallows n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Structure, usu. Of two uprights and a
crosspiece, for hanging criminals. [old norse]
Galvanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (often foll. By into) rouse forcefully,
esp. By shock or excitement (was galvanized into action). 2 stimulate by or as by
electricity. 3 coat (iron) with zinc to protect against rust. galvanization n.
[galvani, name of a physiologist]
Gamble —v. (-ling) 1 play games of chance for money. 2 a bet (a sum of money)
in gambling. B (often foll. By away) lose by gambling. 3 risk much in the hope
of great gain. 4 (foll. By on) act in the hope of. —n. 1 risky undertaking. 2 spell
of gambling. gambler n.
Gambol —v. (-ll-; us -l-) skip or jump about playfully. —n. Frolic, caper.
[french gambade leap, from italian gamba leg]
Game1 —n. 1 form of play or sport, esp. A competitive one with rules. 2 portion
of play forming a scoring unit, e.g. In bridge or tennis. 3 (in pl.) Series of athletic
etc. Contests (olympic games). 4 a piece of fun, jest (didn’t mean to upset you; it
was only a game). B (in pl.) Dodges, tricks (none of your games!). 5 colloq. A
scheme (so that’s your game). B type of activity or business (have been in the
antiques game a long time). 6 a wild animals or birds hunted for sport or food. B
their flesh as food. —adj. Spirited; eager and willing (are you game for a walk?).
—v. (-ming) gamble for money stakes. the game is up scheme is revealed or
foiled. On the game slang involved in prostitution. gamely adv. [old english]
Game2 adj. Colloq. (of a leg, arm, etc.) Crippled. [origin unknown]
Gamester n. Gambler.
Gamete n. Mature germ cell able to unite with another in sexual reproduction.
gametic adj. [greek, = wife]
Gamma n. 1 third letter of the greek alphabet (g, g). 2 third-class mark for a
piece of work etc. [greek]
Gamut n. Entire range or scope. run the gamut of experience or perform the
complete range of. [latin gamma ut, words arbitrarily taken as names of notes]
Gander n. 1 male goose. 2 slang look, glance (take a gander). [old english]
Gangling adj. (of a person) loosely built; lanky. [frequentative of old english
gang go]
Gangue n. Valueless earth etc. In which ore is found. [german: related to *gang]
Gannet n. 1 large diving sea bird. 2 slang greedy person. [old english]
Gape —v. (-ping) 1 a open one’s mouth wide. B be or become wide open; split.
2 (foll. By at) stare at. —n. 1 open-mouthed stare; open mouth. 2 rent, opening.
[old norse]
Garage —n. 1 building for housing a vehicle. 2 establishment selling petrol etc.,
or repairing and selling vehicles. —v. (-ging) put or keep in a garage. [french]
Garb —n. Clothing, esp. Of a distinctive kind. —v. (usu. In passive or refl.)
Dress. [germanic: related to *gear]
Garden —n. 1 piece of ground for growing flowers, fruit, or vegetables, and as a
place of recreation. 2 (esp. In pl.) Grounds laid out for public enjoyment. 3
(attrib.) Cultivated (garden plants). —v. Cultivate or tend a garden. gardening n.
[germanic: related to *yard2]
Garden centre n. Place where plants and garden equipment are sold.
Garfish n. (pl. Same or -es) fish with a long spearlike snout. [old english, =
spear-fish]
Gargle —v. (-ling) wash (the throat) with a liquid kept in motion by breathing
through it. —n. Liquid for gargling. [french: related to *gargoyle]
Gargoyle n. Grotesque carved face or figure, esp. As a spout from the gutter of a
building. [french, = throat]
Garland —n. Wreath of flowers etc., worn on the head or hung as a decoration.
—v. Adorn or crown with a garland or garlands. [french]
—v. Adorn or crown with a garland or garlands. [french]
Garlic n. Plant of the onion family with a pungent bulb used in cookery. garlicky
adj. [old english, = spear-leek]
Garner —v. 1 collect. 2 store. —n. Literary storehouse or granary. [latin: related
to *granary]
Garnet n. Glassy silicate mineral, esp. A red kind used as a gem. [medieval latin
granatum *pomegranate]
Garnish —v. Decorate (esp. Food). —n. Decoration, esp. To food. [french garnir
from germanic]
Garrison —n. Troops stationed in a town etc. To defend it. —v. (-n-) 1 provide
with or occupy as a garrison. 2 place on garrison duty. [french garir defend, from
germanic]
Garrote (brit. Garrotte) —v. (-ting) execute or kill by strangulation, esp. With a
wire collar. —n. Device used for this. [french or spanish]
Garter n. 1 band worn to keep a sock or stocking up. 2 (the garter) a highest
order of english knighthood. B badge or membership of this. [french]
Gas —n. (pl. -es) 1 any airlike substance (i.e. Not solid or liquid) moving freely
to fill any space available. 2 such a substance (esp. Found naturally or extracted
from coal) used as fuel (also attrib.: gas cooker; gas industry). 3 nitrous oxide or
other gas as an anaesthetic. 4 poisonous gas used in war. 5 us colloq. Petrol,
gasoline. 6 slang idle talk; boasting. 7 slang enjoyable or amusing thing or
person. —v. (gases, gassed, gassing) 1 expose to gas, esp. To kill. 2 colloq. Talk
idly or boastfully.
Gas chamber n. Room filled with poisonous gas to kill people or animals.
Gash —n. Long deep slash, cut, or wound. —v. Make a gash in; cut. [french]
Gasket n. Sheet or ring of rubber etc., shaped to seal the junction of metal
surfaces. [french garcette]
Gasman n. Man who installs or services gas appliances, or reads gas meters.
Gas ring n. Hollow ring perforated with gas jets, for cooking etc.
Gassy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a of or like gas. B full of gas. 2 colloq. Verbose.
Gate —n. 1 barrier, usu. Hinged, used to close an opening made for entrance and
exit through a wall, fence, etc. 2 such an opening. 3 means of entrance or exit. 4
numbered place of access to aircraft at an airport. 5 device regulating the passage
of water in a lock etc. 6 a number of people entering by payment at the gates of a
sports ground etc. B amount of money taken thus. 7 a electrical signal that
causes or controls the passage of other signals. B electrical circuit with an output
that depends on the combination of several inputs. —v. (-ting) confine to college
or school as a punishment. gated adj. [old english]
Gateau n. (pl. -s or -x) large rich cake filled with cream etc. [french]
Gatecrasher n. Uninvited guest at a party etc. gatecrash v.
Gateleg n. (in full gateleg table) table with folding flaps supported by legs swung
open like a gate. gatelegged adj.
Gall2 —n. 1 sore made by chafing. 2 mental soreness or its cause. 3 place
rubbed bare. —v. 1 rub sore. 2 vex, humiliate. [low german or dutch galle]
Gall3 n. Growth produced by insects etc. On plants and trees, esp. On oak. [latin
galla]
Gallant —adj. 1 brave. 2 fine, stately. 3 very attentive to women. —n. Ladies’
man. gallantly adv. [french galer make merry]
Gaucho n. (pl. -s) cowboy from the s. American pampas. [spanish from quechua]
Gaudy adj. (-ier, -iest) tastelessly showy. gaudily adv. Gaudiness n. [obsolete
gaud ornament, from latin gaudeo rejoice]
Gauge (us gage: see also sense 6) —n. 1 standard measure, esp. Of the capacity
or contents of a barrel, fineness of a textile, diameter of a bullet, or thickness of
sheet metal. 2 instrument for measuring pressure, width, length, thickness, etc. 3
distance between rails or opposite wheels. 4 capacity, extent. 5 criterion, test. 6
(usu. Gage) naut. Position relative to the wind. —v. (-ging) 1 measure exactly. 2
measure the capacity or content of. 3 estimate (a person, situation, etc.). [french]
Gauntlet1 n. 1 stout glove with a long loose wrist. 2 hist. Armoured glove. pick
up (or take up) the gauntlet accept a challenge. Throw down the gauntlet issue a
challenge. [french diminutive of gant glove]
Gauntlet2 n. run the gauntlet 1 undergo harsh criticism. 2 pass between two rows
of people and receive blows from them, as a punishment or ordeal. [swedish
gatlopp from gata lane, lopp course]
Gauze n. 1 thin transparent fabric of silk, cotton, etc. 2 fine mesh of wire etc.
gauzy adj. (-ier, -iest). [french from gaza in palestine]
Gavotte n. 1 old french dance. 2 music for this. [french from provençal]
Gawk —v. Colloq. Gawp. —n. Awkward or bashful person. [obsolete gaw
*gaze]
Gaze —v. (-zing) (foll. By at, into, on, etc.) Look fixedly. —n. Intent look.
[origin unknown]
Gazebo n. (pl. -s) summerhouse, turret, etc., with a wide view. [perhaps a
fanciful formation from *gaze]
Gazump v. Colloq. 1 raise the price of a property after accepting an offer from (a
buyer). 2 swindle. [origin unknown]
Gazunder v. Colloq. Lower an offer made to (a seller) for a property just before
the exchange of contracts. [from gazump, under]
Gd symb. Gadolinium.
Ge symb. Germanium.
Gear —n. 1 (often in pl.) A set of toothed wheels that work together, esp. Those
connecting the engine of a vehicle to the road wheels. B particular setting of
these (first gear). 2 equipment, apparatus, or tackle. 3 colloq. Clothing. —v. 1
(foll. By to) adjust or adapt to. 2 (often foll. By up) equip with gears. 3 (foll. By
up) make ready or prepared. 4 put in gear. in gear with a gear engaged. Out of
gear with no gear engaged. [old norse]
Gearbox n. 1 set of gears with its casing, esp. In a vehicle. 2 the casing itself.
Gear lever n. (also gear shift) lever used to engage or change gear.
Gee1 int. (also gee whiz) esp. Us colloq. Expression of surprise etc. [perhaps an
abbreviation of *jesus]
Gee2 int. (usu. Foll. By up) command to a horse etc. To start or go faster. [origin
unknown]
Geisha n. (pl. Same or -s) japanese woman trained to entertain men. [japanese]
Gel —n. 1 semisolid jelly-like colloid. 2 jelly-like substance used for setting the
hair. —v. (-ll-) 1 form a gel. 2 = jell 2. [from gelatin]
Gelatin n. (also gelatine) transparent tasteless substance from skin, tendons, etc.,
used in cookery, photography, etc. gelatinize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing).
[italian: related to *jelly]
Gem —n. 1 precious stone, esp. Cut and polished or engraved. 2 thing or person
of great beauty or worth. —v. (-mm-) adorn with or as with gems. [latin gemma
bud, jewel]
Gemini n. (pl. -s) 1 constellation and third sign of the zodiac (the twins). 2
person born when the sun is in this sign. [latin, = twins]
Gemma n. (pl. Gemmae) small cellular body in plants such as mosses, that
separates from the mother-plant and starts a new one. gemmation n. [latin, see
*gem]
Gen slang —n. Information. —v. (-nn-) (foll. By up) gain or give information.
[probably general information]
-gen comb. Form chem. That which produces (hydrogen; antigen). [greek -genes
born]
General anaesthetic n. Anaesthetic affecting the whole body, usu. With loss of
consciousness.
Generalissimo n. (pl. -s) commander of a combined military and naval and air
force, or of combined armies. [italian superlative]
Generally adv. 1 usually; in most respects or cases (generally get up early; was
generally well-behaved). 2 in a general sense; without regard to particulars or
exceptions (generally speaking). 3 for the most part (not generally known).
General practitioner n. Community doctor treating cases of all kinds in the first
instance.
Generation n. 1 all the people born at about the same time. 2 single stage in a
family history (three generations were present in the photograph). 3 stage in
(esp. Technological) development (fourth-generation computers). 4 average time
in which children are ready to take the place of their parents (about 30 years). 5
production, esp. Of electricity. 6 procreation. first- (or second-, third-, etc.)
Generation (attrib.) Designating a person who emigrated to a place (or whose
parents or grandparents etc. Emigrated). [latin: related to *generate]
Genetics n.pl. (treated as sing.) The study of heredity and the variation of
inherited characteristics. geneticist n.
Genial adj. 1 jovial, sociable, kindly. 2 (of the climate) mild and warm;
conducive to growth. 3 cheering. geniality n. Genially adv. [latin: related to
*genius]
Genie n. (pl. Genii) (in arabian tales) spirit or goblin with magical powers.
[french génie genius: cf. jinnee]
Genital —adj. Of animal reproduction or the reproductive organs. —n. (in pl.)
External reproductive organs. [latin gigno genit-beget]
Genre n. 1 kind or style of art etc. 2 painting of scenes from ordinary life.
[french: related to *gender]
Gentian n. Mountain plant usu. With blue flowers. [latin gentiana from gentius,
king of illyria]
Gentile —adj. Not jewish; heathen. —n. Person who is not jewish. [latin gentilis
from gens family]
Gentle adj. (gentler, gentlest) 1 not rough or severe; mild, kind (a gentle nature).
2 moderate (gentle breeze). 3 (of birth, pursuits, etc.) Honourable, of or fit for
gentlefolk. 4 quiet; requiring patience (gentle art). gentleness n. Gently adv.
[latin: related to *gentile]
Gentleman n. 1 man (in polite or formal use). 2 chivalrous well-bred man. 3 man
Gentleman n. 1 man (in polite or formal use). 2 chivalrous well-bred man. 3 man
of good social position (country gentleman). 4 man of gentle birth attached to a
royal household (gentleman in waiting). 5 (in pl.) (as a form of address) male
audience or part of this.
Gentry n.pl. 1 people next below the nobility. 2 derog. People (these gentry).
[french: related to *gentle]
Genuine adj. 1 really coming from its reputed source etc. 2 properly so called;
not sham; sincere. genuinely adv. Genuineness n. [latin]
Geocentric adj. 1 considered as viewed from the earth’s centre. 2 having the
earth as the centre. geocentrically adv.
Geode n. 1 cavity lined with crystals. 2 rock containing this. [greek geodes
earthy]
Geodesic line n. Shortest possible line between two points on a curved surface.
Geodesy n. The study of the shape and area of the earth. [greek geodaisia]
Geology n. 1 science of the earth’s crust, strata, origin of its rocks, etc. 2
geological features of a district. geological adj. Geologically adv. Geologist n.
Geometry n. Science of the properties and relations of lines, surfaces, and solids.
geometrician n. [from *geo-, *-metry]
George cross n. Decoration for bravery awarded esp. To civilians. [king george
vi]
Georgian1 adj. Of the time of kings george i–iv or of george v and vi.
Geranium n. (pl. -s) 1 (in general use) cultivated pelargonium. 2 herb or shrub
bearing fruit shaped like a crane’s bill. [greek geranos crane]
Gerbil n. (also jerbil) mouselike desert rodent with long hind legs. [french:
related to *jerboa]
Geriatric —adj. 1 of old people. 2 colloq. Old, outdated. —n. Old person. [greek
geras old age, iatros doctor]
German adj. (placed after brother, sister, or cousin) having both parents the
same, or both grandparents the same on one side (brother german; cousin
german). [latin germanus]
Germane adj. (usu. Foll. By to) relevant (to a subject). [var. Of *german]
Gerontology n. The study of old age and the process of ageing. [greek geron
geront-old man]
Gerund n. Verbal noun, in english ending in -ing (e.g. Do you mind my asking
you?). [latin]
Get v. (getting; past got; past part. Got or us gotten) (and in comb.) 1 come into
possession of; receive or earn (get a job; got £200 a week; got first prize). 2 fetch
or procure (get my book for me; got a new car). 3 go to reach or catch (a bus,
train, etc.). 4 prepare (a meal etc.). 5 (cause to) reach some state or become (get
rich; get married; get to be famous; got them ready; got him into trouble). 6
obtain as a result of calculation. 7 contract (a disease etc.). 8 establish contact by
telephone etc. With; receive (a broadcast signal). 9 experience or suffer; have
inflicted on one; receive as one’s lot or penalty (got four years in prison). 10 a
succeed in bringing, placing, etc. (get it round the corner; get it on to the
agenda). B (cause to) succeed in coming or going (will get you there somehow;
got absolutely nowhere; got home). 11 (prec. By have) a possess (have not got a
penny). B (foll. By to + infin.) Be bound or obliged (have got to see you). 12
(foll. By to + infin.) Induce; prevail upon (got them to help me). 13 colloq.
Understand (a person or an argument) (have you got that?; i get your point; do
you get me?). 14 colloq. Harm, injure, kill, esp. In retaliation (i’ll get you for
that). 15 colloq. A annoy. B affect emotionally. C attract. 16 (foll. By to + infin.)
Develop an inclination (am getting to like it). 17 (foll. By verbal noun) begin
(get going). 18 establish (an idea etc.) In one’s mind. 19 archaic beget. get about
1 travel extensively or fast; go from place to place. 2 begin walking etc. (esp.
After illness). Get across 1 communicate (an idea etc.). 2 (of an idea etc.) Be
communicated. Get ahead make progress (esp. In a career etc.). Get along (or
on) (foll. By together, with) live harmoniously. Get around = get about. Get at 1
reach; get hold of. 2 colloq. Imply. 3 colloq. Nag, criticize. Get away 1 escape,
start. 2 (as int.) Colloq. Expressing disbelief or scepticism. 3 (foll. By with)
escape blame or punishment for. Get back at colloq. Retaliate against. Get by
colloq. Manage, even if with difficulty. Get cracking see *crack. Get down 1
alight, descend (from a vehicle, ladder, etc.). 2 record in writing.
Ghetto n. (pl. -s) 1 part of a city occupied by a minority group. 2 hist. Jewish
quarter in a city. 3 segregated group or area. [italian]
Ghetto-blaster n. Slang large portable radio, esp. For playing loud pop music.
Ghost train n. (at a funfair) open-topped miniature railway in which the rider
experiences ghoulish sights, sounds, etc.
Giant —n. 1 (fem. Giantess) imaginary or mythical being of human form but
superhuman size. 2 person or thing of great size, ability, courage, etc. —attrib.
Adj. 1 gigantic. 2 of a very large kind. [greek gigas gigant-]
Gibbet —n. Hist. 1 a gallows. B post with an arm on which an executed criminal
was hung. 2 (prec. By the) death by hanging. —v. (-t-) 1 put to death by
hanging. 2 expose or hang up on a gibbet. [french gibet]
hanging. 2 expose or hang up on a gibbet. [french gibet]
Gibbous adj. 1 convex. 2 (of a moon or planet) having the bright part greater
than a semicircle and less than a circle. 3 humpbacked. [latin gibbus hump]
Gibe (also jibe) —v. (-bing) (often foll. By at) jeer, mock. —n. Jeering remark,
taunt. [perhaps from french giber handle roughly]
Giblets n.pl. Edible organs etc. Of a bird, removed and usu. Cooked separately.
[french gibelet game stew]
Giddy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 dizzy, tending to fall or stagger. 2 a mentally intoxicated
(giddy with success). B excitable, frivolous, flighty. 3 making dizzy (giddy
heights). giddily adv. Giddiness n. [old english]
Gift n. 1 thing given; present. 2 natural ability or talent. 3 the power to give (in
his gift). 4 giving. 5 colloq. Easy task. [old norse: related to *give]
Gift token n. (also gift voucher) voucher used as a gift and exchangeable for
goods.
Gig1 n. 1 light two-wheeled one-horse carriage. 2 light ship’s boat for rowing or
sailing. 3 rowing-boat esp. For racing. [probably imitative]
Gig2 colloq. —n. Engagement to play music etc., usu. For one night. —v. (-gg-)
perform a gig. [origin unknown]
Gigolo n. (pl. -s) young man paid by an older woman to be her escort or lover.
[french]
Gild1 v. (past part. Gilded or as adj. In sense 1 gilt) 1 cover thinly with gold. 2
tinge with a golden colour. 3 give a false brilliance to. gild the lily try to improve
what is already satisfactory. [old english: related to *gold]
Gild2 var. Of *guild.
Gill1 n. (usu. In pl.) 1 respiratory organ in a fish etc. 2 vertical radial plate on the
underside of a mushroom etc. 3 flesh below a person’s jaws and ears. [old norse]
Gill3 n. (also ghyll) 1 deep usu. Wooded ravine. 2 narrow mountain torrent. [old
norse]
Gillie n. (also ghillie) scot. Man or boy attending a person hunting or fishing.
[gaelic]
Gilt1 —adj. 1 thinly covered with gold. 2 gold-coloured. —n. 1 gilding. 2 gilt-
edged security. [from *gild1]
Gilt-edged adj. (of securities, stocks, etc.) Having a high degree of reliability.
Gimbals n.pl. Contrivance of rings and pivots for keeping instruments horizontal
in ships, aircraft, etc. [var. Of gimmal from french gemel double finger-ring]
Gimcrack —adj. Showy but flimsy and worthless. —n. Showy ornament; knick-
knack. [origin unknown]
Gimp n. (also gymp) 1 twist of silk etc. With cord or wire running through it. 2
fishing-line of silk etc. Bound with wire. [dutch]
Gin1 n. Spirit made from grain or malt and flavoured with juniper berries. [dutch
geneva: related to *juniper]
Gin2 —n. 1 snare, trap. 2 machine separating cotton from its seeds. 3 a kind of
crane and windlass. —v. (-nn-) 1 treat (cotton) in a gin. 2 trap. [french: related to
*engine]
Ginger —n. 1 a hot spicy root usu. Powdered for use in cooking, or preserved in
syrup, or candied. B plant having this root. 2 light reddish-yellow. 3 spirit,
mettle. —adj. Of a ginger colour. —v. 1 flavour with ginger. 2 (foll. By up)
mettle. —adj. Of a ginger colour. —v. 1 flavour with ginger. 2 (foll. By up)
enliven. gingery adj. [old english and french, ultimately from sanskrit]
Ginkgo n. (pl. -s) tree with fan-shaped leaves and yellow flowers. [chinese, =
silver apricot]
silver apricot]
Giraffe n. (pl. Same or -s) large four-legged african animal with a long neck and
forelegs. [french, ultimately from arabic]
Gird v. (past and past part. Girded or girt) 1 encircle, attach, or secure, with a
belt or band. 2 enclose or encircle. 3 (foll. By round) place (a cord etc.) Round.
gird (or gird up) one’s loins prepare for action. [old english]
Girdle1 —n. 1 belt or cord worn round the waist. 2 corset. 3 thing that
surrounds. 4 bony support for the limbs (pelvic girdle). —v. (-ling) surround
surrounds. 4 bony support for the limbs (pelvic girdle). —v. (-ling) surround
with a girdle. [old english]
Girlie adj. Colloq. (of a magazine etc.) Depicting young women in erotic poses.
Giro —n. (pl. -s) 1 system of credit transfer between banks, post offices, etc. 2
cheque or payment by giro. —v. (-es, -ed) pay by giro. [german from italian]
Girth n. 1 distance round a thing. 2 band round the body of a horse to secure the
saddle etc. [old norse: related to *gird]
Give —v. (-ving; past gave; past part. Given) 1 transfer the possession of freely;
hand over as a present; donate. 2 a transfer temporarily; provide with (gave him
the dog to hold; gave her a new hip). B administer (medicine). C deliver (a
message). 3 (usu. Foll. By for) make over in exchange or payment. 4 a confer;
grant (a benefit, honour, etc.). B accord; bestow (love, time, etc.). C pledge
(gave his word). 5 a perform (an action etc.) (gave a jump; gave a performance;
gave an interview). B utter; declare (gave a shriek; gave the batsman out). 6 (in
passive; foll. By to) be inclined to or fond of (is given to boasting; is given to
strong drink). 7 yield to pressure; collapse. 8 yield as a product or result (gives
an average of 7). 9 a consign, put (gave him into custody). B sanction the
marriage of (a daughter etc.). 10 devote; dedicate (gave his life to the cause). 11
present; offer; show; hold out (gives no sign of life; gave her his arm; give me an
example). 12 impart; be a source of; cause (gave me a cold; gave me trouble;
gave much pain). 13 concede (i give you the benefit of the doubt). 14 deliver (a
judgement etc.) Authoritatively. 15 provide (a party, meal, etc.) As host. 16 (in
past part.) Assume or grant or specify (given the circumstances; in a given
situation; given that we earn so little). 17 (absol.) Colloq. Tell what one knows.
—n. Capacity to yield or comply; elasticity. give and take 1 exchange of words,
ideas, blows, etc. 2 ability to compromise. Give away 1 transfer as a gift. 2 hand
over (a bride) to a bridegroom. 3 reveal (a secret etc.). Give the game (or show)
away reveal a secret or intention. Give in 1 yield; acknowledge defeat. 2 hand in
(a document etc.) To an official etc. Give it to a person colloq. Scold or punish.
Give me i prefer (give me greece any day). Give off emit (fumes etc.). Give
oneself up to 1 abandon oneself to (despair etc.). 2 addict oneself to. Give on to
(or into) (of a window, corridor, etc.) Overlook or lead into. Give or take colloq.
Accepting as a margin of error in estimating. Give out 1 announce; emit;
distribute. 2 be exhausted. 3 run short. Give over 1 colloq. Stop or desist. 2 hand
over. 3 devote. Give rise to cause. Give a person to understand inform or assure.
Give up 1 resign; surrender. 2 part with.
Glacé adj. 1 (of fruit, esp. Cherries) preserved in sugar. 2 (of cloth etc.) Smooth;
polished. [french]
Glacial adj. 1 of ice. 2 geol. Characterized or produced by ice. [latin glacies ice]
Glacial period n. Period when an exceptionally large area was covered by ice.
Glacier n. Mass of land ice formed by the accumulation of snow on high ground.
[french: related to *glacial]
Gladiator n. Hist. Trained fighter in ancient roman shows. gladiatorial adj. [latin
gladius sword]
Gladiolus n. (pl. -li) plant of the lily family with sword-shaped leaves and
flower-spikes. [latin, diminutive of gladius sword]
Glance —v. (-cing) 1 (often foll. By down, up, over, etc.) Look briefly, direct
one’s eye. 2 strike at an angle and glide off an object (glancing blow; ball
glanced off his bat). 3 (usu. Foll. By over) refer briefly or indirectly to a subject
or subjects. 4 (of light etc.) Flash or dart. —n. 1 brief look. 2 flash or gleam. 3
glancing stroke in cricket. at a glance immediately upon looking. [origin
uncertain]
Gland n. 1 organ or similar structure secreting substances for use in the body or
for ejection. 2 bot. Similar organ in a plant. [latin glandulae pl.]
Glasnost n. (in the former soviet union) policy of more open government and
access to information. [russian, = openness]
Glass —n. 1 a (often attrib.) Hard, brittle, usu. Transparent substance, made by
fusing sand with soda and lime etc. B substance of similar properties. 2 glass
objects collectively. 3 a glass drinking vessel. B its contents. 4 mirror. 5 glazed
frame for plants. 6 barometer. 7 covering of a watch-face. 8 lens. 9 (in pl.) A
spectacles. B binoculars. —v. (usu. As glassed adj.) Fit with glass. glassful n.
(pl. -s). [old english]
Glass-blowing n. Blowing semi-molten glass to make glassware.
Glass-paper n. Paper coated with glass particles, for smoothing and polishing.
Glass wool n. Mass of fine glass fibres for packing and insulation.
Glassy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like glass. 2 (of the eye, expression, etc.) Abstracted;
dull; fixed.
Glaze —v. (-zing) 1 fit (a window etc.) With glass or (a building) with windows.
2 a cover (pottery etc.) With a glaze. B fix (paint) on pottery thus. 3 cover
(pastry, cloth, etc.) With a glaze. 4 (often foll. By over) (of the eyes) become
glassy. 5 give a glassy surface to. —n. 1 vitreous substance for glazing pottery. 2
smooth shiny coating on food etc. 3 thin coat of transparent paint to modify
underlying tone. 4 surface formed by glazing. [from *glass]
Gleam —n. Faint or brief light or show. —v. Emit gleams, shine. [old english]
Glean v. 1 acquire (facts etc.) In small amounts. 2 gather (corn left by reapers).
[french]
Glee n. 1 mirth; delight. 2 part-song for three or more (esp. Male) voices. [old
english]
Glengarry n. (pl. -ies) brimless scottish hat cleft down the centre and with
ribbons at the back. [glengarry in scotland]
Glib adj. (glibber, glibbest) speaking or spoken quickly or fluently but without
sincerity. glibly adv. Glibness n. [obsolete glibbery slippery, perhaps imitative]
Glide —v. (-ding) 1 move smoothly and continuously. 2 (of an aircraft or pilot)
fly without engine-power. 3 pass gradually or imperceptibly. 4 go stealthily. 5
cause to glide. —n. Gliding movement. [old english]
Glimpse —n. (often foll. By of, at) 1 brief view or look. 2 faint transient
appearance (glimpses of the truth). —v. (-sing) have a brief view of (glimpsed
his face in the crowd). [related to *glimmer]
Glissando n. (pl. -di or -s) mus. Continuous slide of adjacent notes. [french
glissant sliding: related to *glissade]
Glisten —v. Shine like a wet or polished surface. —n. Glitter; sparkle. [old
english]
Glitter —v. 1 shine with a bright reflected light; sparkle. 2 (usu. Foll. By with)
be showy or splendid. —n. 1 sparkle. 2 showiness. 3 tiny pieces of sparkling
material as decoration etc. glittery adj. [old norse]
Glitz n. Slang showy glamour. glitzy adj. (-ier, -iest). [from glitter, ritzy]
Gloat —v. (often foll. By over etc.) Look or consider with greed, malice, etc. —
n. Act of gloating. [origin unknown]
Glob n. Colloq. Mass or lump of semi-liquid substance, e.g. Mud. [perhaps from
blob, gob2]
Gloomy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 dark; unlit. 2 depressed or depressing. gloomily adv.
Gloominess n.
Glorify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make glorious. 2 make seem better or more splendid than
it is. 3 (as glorified adj.) Invested with more attractiveness, importance, etc.
Than it has in reality (glorified waitress). 4 extol. glorification n. [latin: related to
*glory]
Glory —n. (pl. -ies) 1 renown, fame; honour. 2 adoring praise. 3 resplendent
majesty, beauty, etc. 4 thing that brings renown, distinction, or pride. 5 heavenly
bliss and splendour. 6 colloq. State of exaltation, prosperity, etc. 7 halo of a saint
etc. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By in) pride oneself. [latin gloria]
Gloss2 —n. 1 explanatory comment added to a text, e.g. In the margin. 2
interpretation or paraphrase. —v. Add a gloss to (a text, word, etc.). [latin glossa
tongue]
Glossy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 smooth and shiny (glossy paper). 2 printed on such
paper. —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Glossy magazine or photograph. glossily adv.
Glossiness n.
Glottal stop n. Sound produced by the sudden opening or shutting of the glottis.
Glottis n. Opening at the upper end of the windpipe and between the vocal cords.
[greek]
Glove —n. 1 hand-covering for protection, warmth, etc., usu. With separate
fingers. 2 boxing glove. —v. (-ving) cover or provide with gloves. [old english]
Glove compartment n. Recess for small articles in the dashboard of a car etc.
Glove puppet n. Small puppet fitted on the hand and worked by the fingers.
Glover n. Glove-maker.
Glow —v. 1 a emit light and heat without flame. B shine as if heated in this way.
2 (often foll. By with) a (of the body) be heated. B show or feel strong emotion
(glowed with pride). 3 show a warm colour. 4 (as glowing adj.) Expressing pride
or satisfaction (glowing report). —n. 1 glowing state. 2 bright warm colour. 3
feeling of satisfaction or well-being. [old english]
Glower —v. 1 (often foll. By at) look angrily. 2 look dark or threatening. —n.
Glowering look. [origin uncertain]
Glow-worm n. Beetle whose wingless female emits light from the end of the
abdomen.
Glucose n. Sugar found in the blood or in fruit juice etc., and as a constituent of
starch, cellulose, etc. [greek gleukos sweet wine]
Glue —n. Adhesive substance. —v. (glues, glued, gluing or glueing) 1 fasten or
join with glue. 2 keep or put very close (eye glued to the keyhole). gluey adj.
(gluier, gluiest). [latin glus: related to *gluten]
Glue ear n. Blocking of the eustachian tube, esp. In children.
Glum adj. (glummer, glummest) dejected; sullen. glumly adv. Glumness n. [var.
Of *gloom]
Glut —v. (-tt-) 1 feed (a person, one’s stomach, etc.) Or indulge (a desire etc.)
To the full; satiate. 2 fill to excess. 3 overstock (a market). —n. 1 supply
exceeding demand. 2 full indulgence; surfeit. [french gloutir swallow: related to
*glutton]
Glutamate n. Salt or ester of glutamic acid, esp. A sodium salt used to enhance
the flavour of food.
Glutamic acid n. Amino acid normally found in proteins. [from gluten, amine]
Glutton n. 1 greedy eater. 2 (often foll. By for) colloq. Person insatiably eager
(glutton for work). 3 voracious animal of the weasel family. gluttonous adj.
Gluttonously adv. [latin gluttio *swallow1]
Gluttonously adv. [latin gluttio *swallow1]
Glycerin n. (also glycerol, brit. Glycerine) thick sweet colourless liquid used as
medicine, ointment, etc., and in explosives. [greek glukeros sweet]
Glycerol n. = *glycerine.
Gm abbr. Gram(s).
Gnarled adj. (of a tree, hands, etc.) Knobbly, twisted, rugged. [var. Of knarled:
related to *knurl]
Gnash v. 1 grind (the teeth). 2 (of the teeth) strike together. [old norse]
Gnaw v. 1 a (usu. Foll. By away etc.) Wear away by biting. B (often foll. By at,
into) bite persistently. 2 a corrode; wear away. B (of pain, fear, etc.) Torment.
[old english]
Gnomon n. Rod or pin etc. On a sundial, showing the time by its shadow. [greek,
= indicator]
Go1 —v. (3rd sing. Present goes; past went; past part. Gone) 1 a start moving or
be moving from one place or point in time to another; travel, proceed. B (foll. By
and + verb) colloq. Expressing annoyance (you went and told him). 2 (foll. By
verbal noun) make a special trip for; participate in (went skiing; goes running). 3
lie or extend in a certain direction (the road goes to london). 4 leave; depart (they
had to go). 5 move, act, work, etc. (clock doesn’t go). 6 a make a specified
movement (go like this with your foot). B make a sound (often of a specified
kind) (gun went bang; door bell went). C (of an animal) make (its characteristic
cry) (the cow went ‘moo’). D colloq. Say (so he goes to me ‘why didn’t you like
it?’). 7 be in a specified state (go hungry; went in fear of his life). 8 a pass into a
specified condition (gone bad; went to sleep). B colloq. Die. C proceed or escape
in a specified condition (poet went unrecognized). 9 (of time or distance) pass,
elapse; be traversed (ten days to go before easter; the last mile went quickly). 10
a (of a document, verse, song, etc.) Have a specified content or wording (the
tune goes like this). B be current or accepted (so the story goes). C be suitable;
fit; match (the shoes don’t go with the hat; those pinks don’t go). D be regularly
kept or put (the forks go here). E find room; fit (this won’t go into the cupboard).
11 a turn out, proceed; take a course or view (things went well; liverpool went
labour). B be successful (make the party go). 12 a be sold (went for £1; went
cheap). B (of money) be spent. 13 a be relinquished or abolished (the car will
have to go). B fail, decline; give way, collapse (his sight is going; the bulb has
gone). 14 be acceptable or permitted; be accepted without question (anything
goes; what i say goes). 15 (often foll. By by, with, on, upon) be guided by; judge
or act on or in harmony with (have nothing to go on; a good rule to go by). 16
attend regularly (goes to school). 17 (foll. By pres. Part.) Colloq. Proceed (often
foolishly) to do (went running to the police; don’t go making him angry). 18 act
or proceed to a certain point (will go so far and no further; went as high as
£100). 19 (of a number) be capable of being contained in another (6 into 5 won’t
go). 20 (usu. Foll. By to) be allotted or awarded; pass (first prize went to the
girl). 21 (foll. By to, towards) amount to; contribute to (12 inches go to make a
foot; this will go towards your holiday). 22 (in imper.) Begin motion (a starter’s
order in a race) (ready, steady, go!). 23 (usu. Foll. By by, under) be known or
called (goes by the name of droopy). 24 colloq. Proceed to (go jump in the lake).
25 (foll. By for) apply to (that goes for me too). —n. (pl. Goes) 1 mettle;
animation (has a lot of go in her). 2 vigorous activity (it’s all go). 3 colloq.
Success (made a go of it). 4 colloq. Turn; attempt (i’ll have a go; it’s my go). —
adj. Colloq. Functioning properly (all systems are go). go about 1 set to work at.
2 be socially active. 3 (foll. By pres. Part.) Make a habit of doing. Go ahead
proceed without hesitation. Go along with agree to or with. Go back on fail to
keep (a promise etc.). Go begging see *beg. Go down 1 a (of an amount) become
less through use (coffee has gone down). B subside (the flood went down). C
decrease in price. 2 a (of a ship) sink. B (of the sun) set. C (of a curtain) fall. 3
deteriorate; (of a computer system etc.) Cease to function. 4 be recorded in
writing. 5 be swallowed. 6 (often foll. By with) find acceptance. 7 colloq. Leave
university.
Goad —v. 1 urge on with a goad. 2 (usu. Foll. By on, into) irritate; stimulate. —
n. 1 spiked stick used for urging cattle forward. 2 anything that torments or
incites. [old english]
Goat n. 1 hardy domesticated mammal, with horns and (in the male) a beard. 2
lecherous man. 3 colloq. Foolish person. 4 (the goat) zodiacal sign or
constellation capricorn. get a person’s goat colloq. Irritate a person. [old english]
Gob2 slang —n. Clot of slimy matter. —v. (-bb-) spit. [french go(u)be mouthful]
Gobbet n. 1 piece or lump of flesh, food, etc. 2 extract from a text, esp. One set
for translation or comment. [french diminutive of gobe *gob2]
Go-between n. Intermediary.
Goblet n. Drinking-vessel with a foot and stem. [french diminutive of gobel cup]
Goby n. (pl. -ies) small fish with ventral fins joined to form a disc or sucker.
Goby n. (pl. -ies) small fish with ventral fins joined to form a disc or sucker.
[greek kobios *gudgeon1]
Godparent n. Person who presents a child at baptism and responds on the child’s
behalf.
Goer n. 1 person or thing that goes (slow goer). 2 (often in comb.) Person who
Goer n. 1 person or thing that goes (slow goer). 2 (often in comb.) Person who
attends, esp. Regularly (churchgoer). 3 colloq. A lively or persevering person. B
sexually promiscuous person.
Goggle —v. (-ling) 1 a (often foll. By at) look with wide-open eyes. B (of the
eyes) be rolled about; protrude. 2 roll (the eyes). —adj. (usu. Attrib.) (of the
eyes) protuberant or rolling. —n. (in pl.) Spectacles for protecting the eyes.
[probably imitative]
Go-go adj. Colloq. (of a dancer, music, etc.) In modern style; lively, erotic, and
rhythmic.
Going —n. 1 act or process of going. 2 a condition of the ground for walking,
riding, etc. B progress affected by this. —adj. 1 in or into action (set the clock
going). 2 existing, available (there’s cold beef going). 3 current, prevalent (the
going rate). get going start steadily talking, working, etc. Going on fifteen etc.
Esp. Us approaching one’s fifteenth etc. Birthday. Going on for approaching (a
time, age, etc.). Going strong continuing vigorously. Going to intending to;
about to. To be going on with to start with; for the time being. While the going is
good while conditions are favourable.
Goiter n. (brit. Goitre) morbid enlargement of the thyroid gland. [latin guttur
throat]
Goitre n. (us goiter) morbid enlargement of the thyroid gland. [latin guttur
throat]
Gold-digger n. Slang woman who cultivates men to obtain money from them.
Golden rule n. Basic principle of action, esp. ‘do as you would be done by’.
Goldfinch n. Songbird with a yellow band across each wing.
Golf —n. Game in which a small hard ball is driven with clubs into a series of
18 or 9 holes with the fewest possible strokes. —v. Play golf. golfer n. [origin
unknown]
Golf ball n. 1 ball used in golf. 2 colloq. Small ball used in some electric
typewriters to carry the type.
Golf club n. 1 club used in golf. 2 association for playing golf. 3 premises of
this.
Gonad n. Animal organ producing gametes, esp. The testis or ovary. [greek gone
seed]
Gone adj. 1 (of time) past (not until gone nine). 2 a lost; hopeless. B dead. 3
colloq. Pregnant for a specified time (already three months gone). 4 slang
completely enthralled or entranced, esp. By rhythmic music, drugs, etc. be gone
depart; leave temporarily (cf. begone). Gone on slang infatuated with. [past part.
Of go1]
Gong n. 1 metal disc with a turned rim, giving a resonant note when struck. 2
saucer-shaped bell. 3 slang medal. [malay]
Good —adj. (better, best) 1 having the right or desired qualities; adequate. 2 a
(of a person) efficient, competent (good at french; good driver). B effective,
reliable (good brakes). 3 a kind. B morally excellent; virtuous (good deed). C
well-behaved (good child). 4 enjoyable, agreeable (good party; good news). 5
thorough, considerable (a good wash). 6 a not less than (waited a good hour). B
considerable in number, quality, etc. (a good many people). 7 beneficial (milk is
good for you). 8 a valid, sound (good reason). B financially sound (his credit is
good). 9 in exclamations of surprise (good heavens!). 10 (sometimes
patronizing) commendable, worthy (good old george; my good man). 11 in
courteous greetings and farewells (good morning). —n. 1 (only in sing.) That
which is good; what is beneficial or morally right (only good can come of it;
what good will it do?). 2 (in pl.) A movable property or merchandise. B things to
be transported. C (prec. By the) colloq. What one has undertaken to supply (esp.
Deliver the goods). —adv. Us colloq. Well (doing pretty good). as good as
practically. Be (a certain amount) to the good have as net profit or advantage.
For good (and all) finally, permanently. Good for 1 beneficial to; having a good
effect on. 2 able to perform. 3 able to be trusted to pay. Good riddance see
*riddance. Have the goods on a person slang have information about a person
giving one an advantage over him or her. In good faith with honest or sincere
intentions. In good time 1 with no risk of being late. 2 (also all in good time) in
due course but without haste. To the good having as profit or benefit. [old
english]
Good faith n. Sincerity of intention.
Goodly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 handsome. 2 of imposing size etc. goodliness n. [old
english]
Good will n. Intention that good will result (see also *goodwill).
Goody —n. (also goodie) (pl. -ies) 1 colloq. Good or favoured person. 2 (usu. In
pl.) Something good or attractive, esp. To eat. —int. Expressing childish delight.
Goody-goody colloq. —n. (pl. -ies) smug or obtrusively virtuous person. —adj.
Obtrusively or smugly virtuous.
Gooey adj. (gooier, gooiest) slang 1 viscous, sticky. 2 sentimental. [from *goo]
Goof slang —n. 1 foolish or stupid person. 2 mistake. —v. 1 bungle. 2 blunder.
[latin gufus coarse]
Goofy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang 1 stupid. 2 having protruding or crooked front teeth.
Goon n. Slang 1 stupid person. 2 esp. Us ruffian hired by racketeers etc. [origin
uncertain]
Goose n. (pl. Geese) 1 a large water-bird with webbed feet and a broad bill. B
female of this (opp. *gander 1). C flesh of a goose as food. 2 colloq. Simpleton.
[old english]
Gooseberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 yellowish-green berry with juicy flesh. 2 thorny shrub
bearing this. play gooseberry colloq. Be an unwanted extra person. [origin
uncertain]
Goose-step n. Military marching step in which the knees are kept stiff.
Gordian adj. cut the gordian knot solve a problem by force or by evasion.
[gordius king of phrygia, who tied a knot later cut by alexander the great]
Gorge —n. 1 narrow opening between hills. 2 act of gorging. 3 contents of the
stomach. —v. (-ging) 1 feed greedily. 2 a (often refl.) Satiate. B devour greedily.
one’s gorge rises at one is sickened by. [french, = throat]
Gorilla n. Largest anthropoid ape, native to africa. [greek, perhaps from african =
wild man]
Goth n. 1 member of a germanic tribe that invaded the roman empire in the 3rd–
5th c. 2 uncivilized or ignorant person. [old english gota and greek gothoi]
Goth n. 1 style of rock music with an intense or droning blend of guitars, bass,
and drums, often with apocalyptic or mystical lyrics. 2 performer or devotee of
this music, or member of the subculture favouring black clothing and white-
painted faces with black make-up.
Gouge —n. Chisel with a concave blade. —v. (-ging) 1 cut with or as with a
gouge. 2 (foll. By out) force out (esp. An eye with the thumb) with or as with a
gouge. [latin gubia]
Gourd n. 1 a fleshy usu. Large fruit with a hard skin. B climbing or trailing plant
of the cucumber family bearing this. 2 dried skin of the gourd-fruit, used as a
drinking-vessel etc. [latin cucurbita]
Gourmandise n. Gluttony.
Gout n. Disease with inflammation of the smaller joints, esp. Of the toe. gouty
adj. [latin gutta drop]
Govern v. 1 rule or control with authority; conduct the policy and affairs of. 2
influence or determine (a person or course of action). 3 be a standard or principle
for. 4 check or control (esp. Passions). 5 gram. (esp. Of a verb or preposition)
have (a noun or pronoun or its case) depending on it. [greek kubernao steer]
Gown n. 1 loose flowing garment, esp. A woman’s long dress. 2 official robe of
an alderman, judge, cleric, academic, etc. 3 surgeon’s overall. [latin gunna fur]
Goy n. (pl. -im or -s) jewish name for a non-jew. [hebrew, = people]
Grab —v. (-bb-) 1 seize suddenly. 2 take greedily or unfairly. 3 slang attract the
attention of, impress. 4 (foll. By at) snatch at. 5 (of brakes) act harshly or jerkily.
—n. 1 sudden clutch or attempt to seize. 2 mechanical device for clutching. [low
german or dutch]
Gradate v. (-ting) 1 (cause to) pass gradually from one shade to another. 2
arrange in steps or grades of size etc.
Grade —n. 1 a certain degree in rank, merit, proficiency, etc. B class of persons
or things of the same grade. 2 mark indicating the quality of a student’s work. 3
us class in school. 4 gradient, slope. —v. (-ding) 1 arrange in grades. 2 (foll. By
up, down, off, into, etc.) Pass gradually between grades, or into a grade. 3 give a
grade to (a student). 4 reduce (a road etc.) To easy gradients. [latin gradus step]
Gradient n. 1 stretch of road, railway, etc., that slopes. 2 amount of such a slope.
[probably from *grade after salient]
Usage the singular or collective use of the form graffiti is considered incorrect
by some people, but it is frequently found, e.g. Graffiti has appeared.
Graft1 —n. 1 bot. A shoot or scion inserted into a slit of stock, from which it
receives sap. B place where a graft is inserted. 2 surgery piece of living tissue,
organ, etc., transplanted surgically. 3 slang hard work. —v. 1 (often foll. By into,
on, together, etc.) Insert (a scion) as a graft. 2 transplant (living tissue). 3 (foll.
By in, on) insert or fix (a thing) permanently to another. 4 slang work hard.
[greek graphion stylus]
Graft2 colloq. —n. 1 practices, esp. Bribery, used to secure illicit gains in
politics or business. 2 such gains. —v. Seek or make such gains. [origin
unknown]
Grail n. (in full holy grail) (in medieval legend) cup or platter used by christ at
the last supper. [medieval latin gradalis dish]
Grain —n. 1 fruit or seed of a cereal. 2 (collect.) Wheat or any allied grass used
as food; corn. 3 small hard particle of salt, sand, etc. 4 unit of weight, 0.0648
gram. 5 smallest possible quantity (not a grain of truth in it). 6 roughness of
surface. 7 texture of skin, wood, stone, etc. 8 a pattern of lines of fibre in wood
or paper. B lamination in stone etc. —v. 1 paint in imitation of the grain of wood
etc. 2 give a granular surface to. 3 form into grains. against the grain contrary to
one’s natural inclination or feeling. grainy adj. (-ier, -iest). [latin granum]
-gram comb. Form forming nouns denoting a thing written or recorded (often in
a certain way) (anagram; epigram; telegram). [greek gramma thing written]
Grammar school n. Esp. Hist. Selective state secondary school with a mainly
academic curriculum.
Grampus n. (pl. -puses) a kind of dolphin with a blunt snout. [latin crassus piscis
Grampus n. (pl. -puses) a kind of dolphin with a blunt snout. [latin crassus piscis
fat fish]
Granary n. (pl. -ies) 1 storehouse for threshed grain. 2 region producing, and esp.
Exporting, much corn. [latin: related to *grain]
Grand jury n. Esp. Us jury selected to examine the validity of an accusation prior
to trial.
Grand slam n. 1 sport winning of all of a group of matches etc. 2 bridge winning
of 13 tricks.
Grandstand n. Main stand for spectators at a racecourse etc.
Granite n. Granular crystalline rock of quartz, mica, etc., used for building.
[italian granito: related to *grain]
Granny knot n. Reef-knot crossed the wrong way and therefore insecure.
Granulate v. (-ting) 1 form into grains. 2 roughen the surface of. granulation n.
Grape n. Berry (usu. Green, purple, or black) growing in clusters on a vine, used
as fruit and in making wine. [french, probably from grappe hook]
Grape hyacinth n. Plant of the lily family with clusters of usu. Blue flowers.
Grapeshot n. Hist. Small balls used as charge in a cannon and scattering when
fired.
Graph —n. Diagram showing the relation between variable quantities, usu. Of
two variables, each measured along one of a pair of axes. —v. Plot or trace on a
graph. [abbreviation of graphic formula]
-graph comb. Form forming nouns and verbs meaning: 1 thing written or drawn
etc. In a specified way (photograph). 2 instrument that records (seismograph).
-grapher comb. Form forming nouns denoting a person concerned with a subject
(geographer; radiographer). [greek -grapho write]
Grape hyacinth n. Plant of the lily family with clusters of usu. Blue flowers.
Grapeshot n. Hist. Small balls used as charge in a cannon and scattering when
fired.
Graph —n. Diagram showing the relation between variable quantities, usu. Of
two variables, each measured along one of a pair of axes. —v. Plot or trace on a
graph. [abbreviation of graphic formula]
-graph comb. Form forming nouns and verbs meaning: 1 thing written or drawn
etc. In a specified way (photograph). 2 instrument that records (seismograph).
-grapher comb. Form forming nouns denoting a person concerned with a subject
(geographer; radiographer). [greek -grapho write]
Graphic adj. 1 of or relating to the visual or descriptive arts, esp. Writing and
drawing. 2 vividly descriptive. graphically adv. [greek graphe writing]
Graphic arts n.pl. Visual and technical arts involving design or the use of
lettering.
Graphics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) 1 products of the graphic arts. 2 use of
diagrams in calculation and design.
Graph paper n. Paper printed with a network of lines as a basis for drawing
graphs.
Grapnel n. 1 device with iron claws, for dragging or grasping. 2 small anchor
with several flukes. [french grapon: related to *grape]
Grapple —v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By with) fight in close combat. 2 (foll. By
with) try to manage (a difficult problem etc.). 3 a grip with the hands; come to
close quarters with. B seize with or as with a grapnel. —n. 1 a hold or grip in or
as in wrestling. B contest at close quarters. 2 clutching-instrument; grapnel.
[french grapil: related to *grapnel]
Grasp —v. 1 a clutch at; seize greedily. B hold firmly. 2 (foll. By at) try to seize;
accept avidly. 3 understand or realize (a fact or meaning). —n. 1 firm hold; grip.
2 (foll. By of) a mastery (a grasp of the situation). B mental hold. grasp the nettle
tackle a difficulty boldly. [earlier grapse: related to *grope]
Grass —n. 1 a any of a group of wild plants with green blades that are eaten by
Grass —n. 1 a any of a group of wild plants with green blades that are eaten by
ruminants. B plant of the family which includes cereals, reeds, and bamboos. 2
pasture land. 3 grass-covered ground, lawn. 4 grazing (out to grass). 5 slang
marijuana. 6 slang informer. —v. 1 cover with turf. 2 us provide with pasture. 3
slang a betray, esp. To the police. B inform the police. grassy adj. (-ier, -iest).
[old english]
Grassland n. Large open area covered with grass, esp. Used for grazing.
Grass roots n.pl. 1 fundamental level or source. 2 ordinary people; rank and file
of an organization, esp. A political party.
Grass widow n. (also grass widower) person whose husband (or wife) is away
for a prolonged period.
Grate2 n. 1 fireplace or furnace. 2 metal frame confining fuel in this. [latin cratis
hurdle]
Grave1 n. 1 trench dug in the ground for the burial of a corpse; mound or
memorial stone placed over this. 2 (prec. By the) death. [old english]
Grave3 v. (-ving; past part. Graven or graved) 1 (foll. By in, on) fix indelibly (on
one’s memory). 2 archaic engrave, carve. [old english]
Grave accent n. A mark (`) placed over a vowel to denote pronunciation, length,
etc.
Gravel —n. 1 mixture of coarse sand and small stones, used for paths etc. 2 med.
Aggregations of crystals formed in the urinary tract. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) lay or
strew with gravel. [french diminutive, perhaps of grave shore]
Graveyard n. Burial ground.
Gravity n. 1 a force that attracts a body to the centre of the earth etc. B degree of
intensity of this. C gravitational force. 2 property of having weight. 3 a
importance, seriousness. B solemnity. [latin: related to *grave2]
Gravy n. (pl. -ies) 1 juices exuding from meat during and after cooking. 2 sauce
for food, made from these etc. [perhaps from a misreading of french grané from
grain spice, *grain]
Gray (brit. Grey) —adj. 1 of a colour intermediate between black and white. 2
dull, dismal. 3 a (of hair) turning white with age etc. B having grey hair. 4
anonymous, unidentifiable. —n. 1 a grey colour or pigment. B grey clothes or
material (dressed in grey). 2 grey or white horse. —v. Make or become grey.
greyish adj. Greyness n. [old english]
Graze1 v. (-zing) 1 (of cattle, sheep, etc.) Eat growing grass. 2 a feed (cattle etc.)
On growing grass. B feed on (grass). 3 pasture cattle. [old english: related to
*grass]
Graze2 —v. (-zing) 1 rub or scrape (part of the body, esp. The skin). 2 a touch
lightly in passing. B (foll. By against, along, etc.) Move with a light passing
contact. —n. Abrasion. [perhaps from *graze1, as if ‘take off the grass close to
the ground’]
Grazier n. 1 person who feeds cattle for market. 2 austral. Large-scale sheep-
farmer etc. [from *grass]
Grease —n. 1 oily or fatty matter, esp. As a lubricant. 2 melted fat of a dead
animal. —v. (-sing) smear or lubricate with grease. grease the palm of colloq.
animal. —v. (-sing) smear or lubricate with grease. grease the palm of colloq.
Bribe. [latin crassus (adj.) Fat]
Greaser n. Slang member of a gang of youths with long hair and motor cycles.
Greasy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a of or like grease. B smeared or covered with grease. C
containing or having too much grease. 2 a slippery. B (of a person or manner)
unpleasantly unctuous. greasily adv. Greasiness n.
Great circle n. Circle on the surface of a sphere whose plane passes through the
sphere’s centre.
Great tit n. Eurasian songbird with black and white head markings.
Grecian adj. (of architecture or facial outline) greek. [latin graecia greece]
Grecian adj. (of architecture or facial outline) greek. [latin graecia greece]
Grecian nose n. Straight nose that continues the line of the forehead without a
dip.
Greedy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having or showing greed. 2 (foll. By for, or to + infin.)
Very eager. greedily adv. Greediness n. [old english]
Green —adj. 1 of the colour between blue and yellow in the spectrum; coloured
like grass. 2 covered with leaves or grass. 3 (of fruit etc. Or wood) unripe or
unseasoned. 4 not dried, smoked, or tanned. 5 inexperienced, gullible. 6 a (of the
complexion) pale, sickly-hued. B jealous, envious. 7 young, flourishing. 8 not
withered or worn out (a green old age).
Green belt n. Area of open land round a city, designated for preservation.
Greenhouse n. Light structure with the sides and roof mainly of glass, for rearing
plants.
Greenhouse effect n. Trapping of the sun’s warmth in the lower atmosphere of
the earth, caused by an increase in carbon dioxide, methane, etc.
Greenhouse gas n. Any of the gases, esp. Carbon dioxide and methane, that
contribute to the greenhouse effect.
Green pound n. Exchange rate for the pound for payments for agricultural
produce in the ec.
Green-room n. Room in a theatre for actors and actresses who are off stage.
Greensward n. Expanse of grassy turf.
Grey (us gray) —adj. 1 of a colour intermediate between black and white. 2 dull,
dismal. 3 a (of hair) turning white with age etc. B having grey hair. 4
anonymous, unidentifiable. —n. 1 a grey colour or pigment. B grey clothes or
material (dressed in grey). 2 grey or white horse. —v. Make or become grey.
greyish adj. Greyness n. [old english]
Greyhound n. Dog of a tall slender breed capable of high speed. [old english, =
bitch-hound]
Greylag n. (in full greylag goose) european wild goose. [from *grey]
Grey matter n. 1 the darker tissues of the brain and spinal cord. 2 colloq.
Intelligence.
Griddle n. Circular iron plate placed over a source of heat for baking etc. [latin
cratis hurdle]
Grief n. 1 intense sorrow. 2 cause of this. come to grief meet with disaster.
[french: related to *grieve]
[french: related to *grieve]
Grieve v. (-ving) 1 cause grief to. 2 suffer grief. [latin: related to *grave2]
Grievous adj. 1 (of pain etc.) Severe. 2 causing grief. 3 injurious. 4 flagrant,
heinous. grievously adv. [french: related to *grieve]
Griffin n. (also gryphon) fabulous creature with an eagle’s head and wings and a
lion’s body. [latin gryphus from greek]
Grille n. (also grill) 1 grating or latticed screen, used as a partition etc. 2 metal
grid protecting the radiator of a vehicle.
Grilse n. (pl. Same or -s) young salmon that has returned to fresh water from the
sea for the first time. [origin unknown]
Grimace —n. Distortion of the face made in disgust etc. Or to amuse. —v. (-
cing) make a grimace. [french from spanish]
Grime —n. Soot or dirt ingrained in a surface. —v. (-ming) blacken with grime;
befoul. griminess n. Grimy adj. (-ier, -iest). [low german or dutch]
Grin —v. (-nn-) 1 a smile broadly, showing the teeth. B make a forced,
unrestrained, or stupid smile. 2 express by grinning. —n. Act of grinning. grin
and bear it take pain etc. Stoically. [old english]
Grind —v. (past and past part. Ground) 1 reduce to small particles or powder by
crushing. 2 a sharpen or smooth by friction. B rub or rub together gratingly. 3
(often foll. By down) oppress; harass with exactions. 4 a (often foll. By away)
work or study hard. B (foll. By out) produce with effort. —n. 1 act or instance of
grinding. 2 colloq. Hard dull work (the daily grind). 3 size of ground particles.
grind to a halt stop laboriously.
Grip —v. (-pp-) 1 a grasp tightly. B take a firm hold, esp. By friction. 2 compel
the attention of. —n. 1 a firm hold; tight grasp. B manner of grasping or holding.
2 power of holding attention. 3 a intellectual mastery. B effective control of
one’s behaviour etc. (lose one’s grip). 4 a part of a machine that grips. B part by
which a weapon etc. Is held. 5 = *hairgrip. 6 travelling bag. come (or get) to
grips with approach purposefully; begin to deal with. [old english]
Gripe —v. (-ping) 1 colloq. Complain. 2 affect with gastric pain. —n. 1 (usu. In
pl.) Colic. 2 colloq. Complaint. 3 grip, clutch. [old english]
Grisly adj. (-ier, -iest) causing horror, disgust, or fear. grisliness n. [old english]
Grist n. Corn to grind. grist to the (or a person’s) mill source of profit or
advantage. [old english: related to *grind]
Gristle n. Tough flexible animal tissue; cartilage. gristly adj. [old english]
Grits n.pl. 1 coarsely ground grain, esp. Oatmeal. 2 oats that have been husked
but not ground. [old english]
Grizzled adj. 1 (of hair) grey or streaked with grey. 2 having grizzled hair.
[grizzle grey from french grisel]
Grizzly —adj. (-ier, -iest) grey, grey-haired. —n. (pl. -ies) (in full grizzly bear)
large variety of brown bear, found in n. America and n. Russia.
Groan —v. 1 a make a deep sound expressing pain, grief, or disapproval. B utter
with groans. 2 (usu. Foll. By under, beneath, with) be loaded or oppressed. —n.
Sound made in groaning. [old english]
Groat n. Hist. Silver coin worth four old pence. [low german or dutch: related to
*great]
Grocery n. (pl. -ies) 1 grocer’s trade or shop. 2 (in pl.) Goods, esp. Food, sold by
a grocer.
Groin1 —n. 1 depression between the belly and the thigh. 2 archit. A edge
formed by intersecting vaults. B arch supporting a vault. —v. Archit. Build with
groins. [origin uncertain]
Groin n. (brit. Groyne) timber, stone, or concrete wall built at right angles to the
coast to check beach erosion. [dial. Groin snout, from french]
Groove —n. 1 channel or elongated hollow, esp. One made to guide motion or
receive a corresponding ridge. 2 spiral track cut in a gramophone record. —v. (-
ving) 1 make a groove or grooves in. 2 slang enjoy oneself. [dutch]
Grope —v. (-ping) 1 (usu. Foll. By for) feel about or search blindly. 2 (foll. By
for, after) search mentally. 3 feel (one’s way) towards something. 4 slang fondle
clumsily for sexual pleasure. —n. Act of groping. [old english]
Grosgrain n. Corded fabric of silk etc. [french, = coarse grain: related to *gross,
*grain]
Gross domestic product n. Total value of goods produced and services provided
in a country in one year.
Gross national product n. Gross domestic product plus the total of net income
from abroad.
Grotto n. (pl. -es or -s) 1 picturesque cave. 2 artificial ornamental cave. [italian
grotta from greek krupte *crypt]
Grotty adj. (-ier, -iest) slang unpleasant, dirty, shabby, unattractive. [shortening
of *grotesque]
Ground1 —n. 1 a surface of the earth, esp. As contrasted with the air around it.
B part of this specified in some way (low ground). 2 a position, area, or distance
on the earth’s surface. B extent of a subject dealt with (the book covers a lot of
ground). 3 (often in pl.) Reason, justification. 4 area of a special kind or use
(often in comb.: cricket-ground; fishing-grounds). 5 (in pl.) Enclosed land
attached to a house etc. 6 area or basis for agreement etc. (common ground). 7
(in painting etc.) The surface giving the predominant colour. 8 (in pl.) Solid
particles, esp. Of coffee, forming a residue. 9 us electr. = *earth n. 4. 10 bottom
of the sea. 11 floor of a room etc. 12 (in full ground bass) mus. Short theme in
the bass constantly repeated with the upper parts of the music varied. 13 (attrib.)
(of animals) living on or in the ground; (of plants) dwarfish or trailing. —v. 1
refuse authority for (a pilot or an aircraft) to fly. 2 a run (a ship) aground; strand.
B (of a ship) run aground. 3 (foll. By in) instruct thoroughly (in a subject). 4
(often as grounded adj.) (foll. By on) base (a principle, conclusion, etc.) On. 5 us
electr. = *earth v. break new (or fresh) ground treat a subject previously not dealt
with. Get off the ground colloq. Make a successful start. Give (or lose) ground
retreat, decline. Go to ground 1 (of a fox etc.) Enter its earth etc. 2 (of a person)
become inaccessible for a prolonged period. Hold one’s ground not retreat. On
the grounds of because of. [old english]
Ground frost n. Frost on the surface of the ground or in the top layer of soil.
Groundnut n. = *peanut 1, 2.
Ground-rent n. Rent for land leased for building.
Groundsel n. Wild plant with small yellow flowers, used as a food for cage-birds
etc. [old english]
Groupie n. Slang ardent follower of touring pop groups, esp. A young woman
seeking sexual relations with them.
Group therapy n. Therapy in which people are brought together to assist one
another psychologically.
Grouse1 n. (pl. Same) 1 game-bird with a plump body and feathered legs. 2 its
flesh as food. [origin uncertain]
Grout —n. Thin fluid mortar. —v. Provide or fill with grout. [origin uncertain]
Grow v. (past grew; past part. Grown) 1 increase in size, height, quantity,
degree, etc. 2 develop or exist as a living plant or natural product. 3 a produce
(plants etc.) By cultivation. B allow (a beard etc.) To develop. 4 become
gradually (grow rich). 5 (foll. By on) become gradually more favoured by. 6 (in
passive; foll. By over etc.) Be covered with a growth. grow out of 1 become too
large to wear. 2 become too mature to retain (a habit etc.). 3 develop from. Grow
up 1 advance to maturity. 2 (of a custom) arise. [old english]
Growl —v. 1 a (often foll. By at) make a low guttural sound, usu. Of anger. B
murmur angrily. 2 rumble. 3 (often foll. By out) utter with a growl. —n. 1
growling sound. 2 angry murmur. 3 rumble. [probably imitative]
Groyne n. (us groin) timber, stone, or concrete wall built at right angles to the
coast to check beach erosion. [dial. Groin snout, from french]
Grub —n. 1 larva of an insect. 2 colloq. Food. —v. (-bb-) 1 dig superficially. 2
(foll. By up, out) a extract by digging. B extract (information etc.) By searching
in books etc. 3 rummage. [old english]
Grubby adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 dirty. 2 of or infested with grubs. grubbily adv.
Grubbiness n.
Gruel n. Liquid food of oatmeal etc. Boiled in milk or water. [french from
germanic]
Gruff adj. 1 a (of a voice) low and harsh. B (of a person) having a gruff voice. 2
surly. gruffly adv. Gruffness n. [low german or dutch grof coarse]
Grunt —n. 1 low guttural sound made by a pig. 2 similar sound. —v. 1 make a
grunt. 2 make a similar sound, esp. To express discontent. 3 utter with a grunt.
[old english, imitative]
Gstring n. 1 mus. String sounding the note g. 2 narrow strip of cloth etc.
Covering only the genitals and attached to a string round the waist.
Guano n. (pl. -s) 1 excrement of sea birds, used as manure. 2 artificial manure,
esp. That made from fish. [spanish from quechua]
Guaranty n. (pl. -ies) 1 written or other undertaking to answer for the payment of
a debt or for the performance of an obligation by another person liable in the
first instance. 2 thing serving as security.
Guard —v. 1 (often foll. By from, against) watch over and defend or protect. 2
keep watch by (a door etc.) To control entry or exit. 3 supervise (prisoners etc.)
And prevent from escaping. 4 keep (thoughts or speech) in check. 5 (foll. By
against) take precautions. —n. 1 state of vigilance. 2 person who protects or
keeps watch. 3 soldiers etc. Protecting a place or person; escort. 4 official in
general charge of a train. 5 part of an army detached for some purpose (advance
guard). 6 (in pl.) (usu. Guards) body of troops nominally employed to guard a
monarch. 7 thing that protects (fire-guard). 8 us prison warder. 9 defensive
posture or motion in boxing etc. be on (or keep or stand) guard keep watch. Off
(or off one’s) guard unprepared for some surprise or difficulty. On (or on one’s)
guard prepared for all contingencies. [germanic: related to *ward]
Guava n. 1 edible pale orange fruit with pink flesh. 2 tree bearing this. [spanish]
Gudgeon1 n. Small freshwater fish often used as bait. [french goujon from latin
gobio *goby]
Guelder rose n. Shrub with round bunches of creamy-white flowers. [dutch from
gelderland in the netherlands]
Guernsey n. (pl. -s) 1 one of a breed of dairy cattle from guernsey in the channel
islands. 2 (guernsey) type of thick woollen sweater.
islands. 2 (guernsey) type of thick woollen sweater.
Guide —n. 1 person who leads or shows the way. 2 person who conducts tours.
3 adviser. 4 directing principle. 5 book with essential information on a subject,
esp. = *guidebook. 6 thing marking a position or guiding the eye. 7 bar etc.
Directing the motion of something. 8 (guide) member of a girls’ organization
similar to the scouts. —v. (-ding) 1 act as guide to. 2 be the principle or motive
of. [french from germanic]
Guild n. (also gild) 1 association of people for mutual aid or the pursuit of a
common goal. 2 medieval association of craftsmen or merchants. [low german or
dutch gilde]
Guile n. Cunning or sly behaviour; treachery, deceit. guileful adj. Guileless adj.
[french from scandinavian]
Guillotine —n. 1 machine with a blade sliding vertically in grooves, used for
beheading. 2 device for cutting paper etc. 3 method of preventing delay in the
discussion of a legislative bill by fixing times at which various parts of it must
be voted on. —v. (-ning) use a guillotine on. [guillotin, name of a physician]
Guinea n. 1 hist. Sum of 21 old shillings (£1.05). 2 hist. Former british gold coin
first coined for the african trade. [guinea in w. Africa]
Gujarati (also gujerati) —n. (pl. -s) 1 native of gujarat. 2 language of gujarat. —
adj. Of gujarat, its people, or language. [gujarat, state in india]
Gulf n. 1 stretch of sea consisting of a deep inlet with a narrow mouth. 2 deep
hollow; chasm. 3 wide difference of feelings, opinion, etc. [greek kolpos]
Gulf stream n. Warm current flowing from the gulf of mexico to newfoundland
Gulf stream n. Warm current flowing from the gulf of mexico to newfoundland
where it is deflected across the atlantic ocean.
Gull2 v. Dupe, fool. [perhaps from obsolete gull yellow from old norse]
Gullet n. Food-passage extending from the mouth to the stomach. [latin gula
throat]
Gulp —v. 1 (often foll. By down) swallow hastily, greedily, or with effort. 2
swallow gaspingly or with difficulty; choke. 3 (foll. By down, back) suppress
(esp. Tears). —n. 1 act of gulping. 2 large mouthful of a drink. [dutch gulpen,
imitative]
Gum1 —n. 1 a viscous secretion of some trees and shrubs. B adhesive substance
made from this. 2 us chewing gum. 3 = gumdrop. 4 = gum arabic. 5 = *gum-
tree. —v. (-mm-) 1 (usu. Foll. By down, together, etc.) Fasten with gum. 2 apply
gum to. gum up colloq. Interfere with the smooth running of. [greek kommi from
egyptian kemai]
Gum2 n. (usu. In pl.) Firm flesh around the roots of the teeth. [old english]
Gun —n. 1 weapon consisting of a metal tube from which bullets or other
missiles are propelled with great force, esp. By a contained explosion. 2 starting
pistol. 3 device for discharging insecticide, grease etc., in the required direction.
4 member of a shooting-party. 5 us gunman. —v. (-nn-) 1 a (usu. Foll. By down)
shoot (a person) with a gun. B shoot at with a gun. 2 go shooting. 3 (foll. By for)
seek out determinedly to attack or rebuke. go great guns colloq. Proceed
vigorously or successfully. Stick to one’s guns colloq. Maintain one’s position
under attack. [perhaps an abbreviation of the scandinavian woman’s name
gunnhildr, applied to cannon etc.]
Gunge colloq. —n. Sticky or viscous matter. —v. (-ging) (usu. Foll. By up) clog
with gunge. gungy adj. [origin uncertain]
with gunge. gungy adj. [origin uncertain]
Gunny n. (pl. -ies) 1 coarse sacking, usu. Of jute fibre. 2 sack made of this.
[hindi and marathi]
Gunwale n. (also gunnel) upper edge of the side of a boat or ship. [from gun,
wale, because it was formerly used to support guns]
Guppy n. (pl. -ies) freshwater fish of the w. Indies and s. America frequently
kept in aquariums. [guppy, name of a clergyman]
Gurgle —v. (-ling) 1 make a bubbling sound as of water from a bottle. 2 utter
with such a sound. —n. Gurgling sound. [probably imitative]
Gurnard n. (pl. Same or -s) marine fish with a large spiny head and finger-like
pectoral rays. [french]
Guru n. (pl. -s) 1 hindu spiritual teacher or head of a religious sect. 2 influential
Guru n. (pl. -s) 1 hindu spiritual teacher or head of a religious sect. 2 influential
or revered teacher. [hindi]
Gush —v. 1 emit or flow in a sudden and copious stream. 2 speak or behave
effusively. —n. 1 sudden or copious stream. 2 effusive manner. [probably
imitative]
Gusher n. 1 oil well from which oil flows without being pumped. 2 effusive
person.
Gusset n. 1 piece let into a garment etc. To strengthen or enlarge it. 2 bracket
strengthening an angle of a structure. [french]
Gust —n. 1 sudden strong rush of wind. 2 burst of rain, smoke, emotion, etc. —
v. Blow in gusts. gusty adj. (-ier, -iest). [old norse]
Gut —n. 1 the intestine. 2 (in pl.) The bowel or entrails. 3 (in pl.) Colloq.
Personal courage and determination; perseverance. 4 slang stomach, belly. 5 (in
pl.) A contents. B essence. 6 a material for violin strings etc. B material for
fishing-lines made from the silk-glands of silkworms. 7 (attrib.) A instinctive (a
gut reaction). B fundamental (a gut issue). —v. (-tt-) 1 remove or destroy the
internal fittings of (a house etc.). 2 remove the guts of (a fish). hate a person’s
guts colloq. Dislike a person intensely. [old english]
Gutter —n. 1 shallow trough below the eaves of a house, or a channel at the side
of a street, to carry off rainwater. 2 (prec. By the) poor or degraded background
or environment. 3 open conduit. 4 groove. —v. (of a candle) burn unsteadily and
melt away rapidly. [latin gutta drop]
Guy1 —n. 1 colloq. Man; fellow. 2 effigy of guy fawkes burnt on 5 nov. —v.
Ridicule. [guy fawkes, name of a conspirator]
Guy2 —n. Rope or chain to secure a tent or steady a crane-load etc. —v. Secure
with a guy or guys. [probably low german]
Guzzle v. (-ling) eat or drink greedily. [probably french gosiller from gosier
throat]
Gybe v. (us jibe) (-bing) 1 (of a fore-and-aft sail or boom) swing across. 2 cause
(a sail) to do this. 3 (of a ship or its crew) change course so that this happens.
[dutch]
Gypsy n. (also gipsy) (pl. -ies) member of a nomadic people of europe and n.
America, of hindu origin with dark skin and hair. [from *egyptian]
America, of hindu origin with dark skin and hair. [from *egyptian]
Gyrfalcon n. Large falcon of the northern hemisphere. [french from old norse]
Gyroscope n. Rotating wheel whose axis is free to turn but maintains a fixed
direction unless perturbed, esp. Used for stabilization or with the compass in an
aircraft, ship, etc.
H2 abbr. (also h.) 1 (of a pencil-lead) hard. 2 (water) hydrant. 3 slang heroin. 4
henry(s).
H3 symb. Hydrogen.
Ha symb. Hahnium.
Ha1 (also hah) —int. Expressing surprise, derision, triumph, etc. (cf. *ha ha). —
v. In hum and ha: see *hum. [imitative]
Haberdasher n. Dealer in dress accessories and sewing-goods. haberdashery n.
(pl. -ies). [probably anglo-french]
Habiliment n. (usu. In pl.) Archaic clothes. [french from habiller fit out]
Habitable adj. Suitable for living in. habitability n. [latin habito inhabit]
Hácek n. Diacritic ( ) placed over a letter to modify its sound in some languages.
[czech, diminutive of hák hook]
Hachures n.pl. Parallel lines on a map indicating the degree of steepness of hills.
[french: related to *hatch3]
Hack1 —v. 1 cut or chop roughly. 2 football etc. Kick the shin of (an opponent).
3 (often foll. By at) deliver cutting blows. 4 cut (one’s way) through foliage etc.
5 colloq. Gain unauthorized access to (data in a computer). 6 slang manage, cope
with; tolerate. 7 (as hacking adj.) (of a cough) short, dry, and frequent. —n. 1
kick with the toe of a boot. 2 gash or wound, esp. From a kick. 3 a mattock. B
miner’s pick. [old english]
Hack2 —n. 1 a = *hackney. B horse let out for hire. 2 person hired to do dull
routine work, esp. Writing. —attrib. Adj. 1 used as a hack. 2 typical of a hack;
commonplace (hack work). —v. Ride on horseback on a road at an ordinary
pace. [abbreviation of *hackney]
Hacker n. 1 person or thing that hacks or cuts roughly. 2 colloq. A person whose
hobby is computing or computer programming. B person who uses a computer
to gain unauthorized access to a computer network.
Hackle n. 1 a (in pl.) Erectile hairs on an animal’s neck, rising when it is angry
or alarmed. B feather(s) on the neck of a domestic cock etc. 2 steel comb for
dressing flax. make one’s hackles rise cause one to be angry or indignant. [old
english]
Hacksaw n. Saw with a narrow blade set in a frame, for cutting metal.
Haddock n. (pl. Same) n. Atlantic marine fish used as food. [probably french]
Haemophilia n. (us hem-) hereditary failure of the blood to clot normally with
the tendency to bleed severely from even a slight injury. [greek haima blood,
philia loving]
Haemorrhage (us hem-) —n. 1 profuse loss of blood from a ruptured blood-
vessel. 2 damaging loss, esp. Of people or assets. —v. (-ging) suffer a
haemorrhage. [greek haima blood, rhegnumi burst]
Haemorrhoids n.pl. (us hem-) swollen veins in the wall of the anus; piles. [greek
haima blood, -rhoos -flowing]
Haggis n. Scottish dish of offal boiled in a sheep’s stomach with suet, oatmeal,
etc. [origin unknown]
Haggle —v. (-ling) (often foll. By about, over) bargain persistently. —n.
Haggling. [old norse]
Hah var. Of *ha1.
Hail1 —n. 1 pellets of frozen rain. 2 (foll. By of) barrage or onslaught. —v. 1 a
(prec. By it as subject) hail falls. B come down forcefully. 2 pour down (blows,
words, etc.). [old english]
Hailstone n. Pellet of hail.
Hair n. 1 a any of the fine threadlike strands growing from the skin of mammals,
esp. From the human head. B these collectively (has long hair). 2 thing
resembling a hair. 3 elongated cell growing from a plant. 4 very small quantity
or extent (also attrib.: hair crack). get in a person’s hair colloq. Annoy a person.
Keep one’s hair on colloq. Keep calm; not get angry. Let one’s hair down colloq.
Enjoy oneself by abandoning restraint. Make one’s hair stand on end colloq.
Horrify one. Not turn a hair remain unmoved or unaffected. hairless adj. [old
english]
Haircut n. 1 act of cutting the hair (needs a haircut). 2 style in which the hair is
cut.
Hairdresser n. 1 person who cuts and styles the hair, esp. For a living. 2
hairdresser’s shop. hairdressing n.
Hairdrier n. (also hair-dryer) device for drying the hair with warm air.
Hairdrier n. (also hair-dryer) device for drying the hair with warm air.
Hairline n. 1 edge of a person’s hair, esp. On the forehead. 2 very narrow line,
crack (usu. Hairline crack), etc.
Hair of the dog n. Further alcoholic drink taken to cure the effects of drink.
Hairy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 covered with hair. 2 slang frightening, dangerous.
hairiness n.
Hajji n. (also hadji) (pl. -s) muslim who has made the pilgrimage to mecca.
[persian from arabic]
Hake n. (pl. Same) marine fish resembling the cod, used as food. [origin
uncertain]
Halal n. (also hallal) (often attrib.) Meat from an animal killed according to
muslim law. [arabic]
Hale adj. Strong and healthy (esp. In hale and hearty). [var. Of *whole]
Half —n. (pl. Halves) 1 either of two (esp. Equal) parts into which a thing is
divided. 2 colloq. Half a pint, esp. Of beer. 3 sport either of two equal periods of
play. 4 colloq. Half-price fare or ticket, esp. For a child. 5 colloq. = half-back. —
adj. 1 amounting to half (half the men). 2 forming a half (a half share). —adv. 1
(often in comb.) To the extent of half; partly (half cooked). 2 to some extent (esp.
In idiomatic phrases: half dead; am half convinced). 3 (in reckoning time) by the
amount of half (an hour etc.) (half past two). at half cock see cock1. By half
(prec. By too + adj.) Excessively (too clever by half). By halves imperfectly or
incompletely (does nothing by halves). Half a mind see mind. Half the time see
time. Not half 1 slang extremely, violently (he didn’t half swear). 2 not nearly
(not half long enough). 3 colloq. Not at all (not half bad). [old english]
Usage in sense 3 of the adverb, the word ‘past’ is often omitted in colloquial
usage, e.g. Came at half two. In some parts of scotland and ireland this means
‘half past one’.
Half-baked adj. Colloq. 1 not thoroughly thought out; foolish. 2 (of enthusiasm
etc.) Only partly committed.
Half board n. Provision of bed, breakfast, and one main meal at a hotel etc.
Half-brother n. Brother with whom one has only one parent in common.
Half-crown n. (also half a crown) former coin and monetary unit worth 2s. 6d.
(121/2p).
Half-hardy adj. (of a plant) able to grow in the open except in severe frost.
Half hitch n. Knot formed by passing the end of a rope round its standing part
and then through the loop.
Half-life n. Time taken for radioactivity etc. To fall to half its original value.
Half moon n. 1 moon when only half its surface is illuminated. 2 time when this
occurs. 3 semicircular object.
Half-sister n. Sister with whom one has only one parent in common.
Half-timbered adj. Having walls with a timber frame and a brick or plaster
filling.
Half-title n. Title or short title of a book printed on the front of the leaf preceding
the title-page.
Half-truth n. Statement that (esp. Deliberately) conveys only part of the truth.
Half-volley n. (in ball games) playing of the ball as soon as it bounces off the
ground.
Halibut n. (pl. Same) large marine flat-fish used as food. [from *holy (perhaps
because eaten on holy days), butt flat-fish]
Hall n. 1 area into which the front entrance of a house etc. Opens. 2 large room
or building for meetings, concerts, etc. 3 large country house or estate. 4 (in full
hall of residence) residence for students. 5 (in a college etc.) Dining-room. 6
premises of a guild (fishmongers’ hall). 7 large public room in a palace etc. [old
english]
Hallmark —n. 1 mark indicating the standard of gold, silver, and platinum. 2
distinctive feature. —v. Stamp with a hallmark.
Halloo int. Inciting dogs to the chase or calling attention. [perhaps from hallow
pursue with shouts]
Halo —n. (pl. -es) 1 disc or circle of light shown surrounding the head of a
sacred person. 2 glory associated with an idealized person etc. 3 circle of white
or coloured light round a luminous body, esp. The sun or moon. —v. (-es, -ed)
surround with a halo. [greek halos threshing-floor, disc of the sun or moon]
Halt2 —v. (esp. As halting adj.) Proceed hesitantly. —adj. Archaic lame.
haltingly adv. [old english]
Halter n. 1 headstall and rope for leading or tying up a horse etc. 2 a strap round
the neck holding a dress etc. Up and leaving the shoulders and back bare. B (also
halterneck) dress etc. Held by this. [old english]
Halva n. Confection of sesame flour and honey etc. [yiddish from turkish helva
from arabic halwa]
Halve v. (-ving) 1 divide into two halves or parts; share equally between two. 2
reduce by half. 3 golf use the same number of strokes as one’s opponent in (a
hole or match).
Halyard n. (also halliard) rope or tackle for raising or lowering a sail, yard, etc.
[archaic hale drag forcibly]
Ham —n. 1 a upper part of a pig’s leg salted and dried or smoked for food. B
meat from this. 2 back of the thigh; thigh and buttock. 3 colloq. (often attrib.)
Inexpert or unsubtle actor or piece of acting. 4 colloq. Operator of an amateur
Inexpert or unsubtle actor or piece of acting. 4 colloq. Operator of an amateur
radio station. —v. (-mm-) (usu. In ham it up) colloq. Overact. [old english]
Hamburger n. Cake of minced beef, usu. Eaten in a soft bread roll. [hamburg in
germany]
Hamitic —n. Group of african languages including ancient egyptian and berber.
—adj. Of this group. [from the name ham (gen. 10:6 ff.)]
Hammer —n. 1 a tool with a heavy metal head at right angles to its handle, used
for driving nails etc. B similar device, as for exploding the charge in a gun,
striking the strings of a piano, etc. 2 auctioneer’s mallet. 3 metal ball attached to
a wire for throwing in an athletic contest. —v. 1 a hit or beat with or as with a
hammer. B strike loudly. 2 a drive in (nails) with a hammer. B fasten or secure
by hammering (hammered the lid down). 3 (usu. Foll. By in) inculcate (ideas,
knowledge, etc.) Forcefully or repeatedly. 4 colloq. Defeat utterly; beat up. 5
(foll. By at, away at) work hard or persistently at. come under the hammer be
sold at auction. Hammer out 1 make flat or smooth by hammering. 2 work out
details of (a plan etc.) Laboriously. 3 play (a tune, esp. On the piano) loudly or
clumsily. hammering n. (esp. In sense 4 of v.). [old english]
Hammer and sickle n. Symbols of the industrial worker and peasant used as an
emblem of the former ussr and international communism.
Hammer and tongs adv. Colloq. With great vigour and commotion.
Hammer and tongs adv. Colloq. With great vigour and commotion.
Hammerhead n. Shark with a flattened head and with eyes in lateral extensions
of it.
Hammerlock n. Wrestling hold in which the arm is twisted and bent behind the
back.
Hamper1 n. Large basket, usu. With a hinged lid and containing food. [french
hanap goblet]
Hamster n. Mouselike rodent with a short tail and large cheek-pouches for
storing food. [german]
Hamstring —n. 1 each of five tendons at the back of the knee. 2 great tendon at
the back of the hock in quadrupeds. —v. (past and past part. -strung or -stringed)
the back of the hock in quadrupeds. —v. (past and past part. -strung or -stringed)
1 cripple by cutting the hamstrings of (a person or animal). 2 impair the activity
or efficiency of.
Hand —n. 1 a end part of the human arm beyond the wrist. B (in other primates)
end part of a forelimb. 2 a (often in pl.) Control, management, custody, disposal
(is in good hands). B agency or influence (suffered at their hands). C share in an
action; active support (had a hand in it; give me a hand). 3 thing like a hand, esp.
The pointer of a clock. 4 right or left side or direction relative to a person or
thing. 5 a skill (has a hand for making pastry). B person skilful in some respect.
6 person who does or makes something, esp. Distinctively (picture by the same
hand). 7 person’s writing or its style. 8 person etc. As a source (at first hand). 9
pledge of marriage. 10 manual worker, esp. At a factory or farm; member of a
ship’s crew. 11 a playing-cards dealt to a player. B round of play. 12 colloq.
Burst of applause. 13 unit of measure of a horse’s height, 4 inches (10.16 cm).
14 forehock of pork. 15 (attrib.) A operated by or held in the hand (hand-drill). B
done by hand, not machine (hand-knitted). —v. 1 (foll. By in, to, over, etc.)
Deliver; transfer by hand or otherwise. 2 colloq. Give away too readily (handed
them the advantage). all hands entire crew or workforce. At hand 1 close by. 2
about to happen. By hand 1 by a person, not a machine. 2 delivered privately,
not by post. From hand to mouth satisfying only one’s immediate needs. Get (or
have or keep) one’s hand in become (or be or remain) in practice. Hand down 1
pass ownership or use of to a later generation etc. 2 a transmit (a decision) from
a higher court etc. B us express (an opinion or verdict). Hand it to colloq. Award
deserved praise to. Hand on pass (a thing) to the next in a series. Hand out 1
serve, distribute.
Handball n. 1 game with a ball thrown by hand among players or against a wall.
2 football intentional touching of the ball, constituting a foul.
Handcuff —n. Each of a pair of linked metal rings for securing a prisoner’s
wrist(s). —v. Put handcuffs on.
Handful n. (pl. -s) 1 quantity that fills the hand. 2 small number or amount. 3
colloq. Troublesome person or task.
Handicraft n. Work requiring manual and artistic skill. [from earlier *handcraft]
Hand in hand adv. 1 in close association (power and money go hand in hand). 2
(hand-in-hand) holding hands.
Handkerchief n. (pl. -s or -chieves) square of cloth for wiping one’s nose etc.
Handle —n. 1 part by which a thing is held, carried, or controlled. 2 fact that
may be taken advantage of (gave a handle to his critics). 3 colloq. Personal title.
—v. (-ling) 1 touch, feel, operate, or move with the hands. 2 manage, deal with
(can handle people). 3 deal in (goods). 4 treat (a subject). [old english: related to
*hand]
Handler n. 1 person who handles or deals in something. 2 person who trains and
looks after an animal (esp. A police dog).
Hand-out n. 1 thing given free to a needy person. 2 statement given to the press
etc.; notes given out in a class etc.
Hand-over n. Handing over.
Hands off —int. Warning not to touch or interfere with something. —adj. & adv.
(also hands-off) not requiring the manual use of controls.
Handstand n. Supporting oneself on one’s hands with one’s feet in the air.
Handwriting n. 1 writing done with a pen, pencil, etc. 2 person’s particular style
of this. handwritten adj.
Handy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 convenient to handle or use; useful. 2 ready to hand. 3
clever with the hands. handily adv. Handiness n.
Hang —v. (past and past part. Hung except in sense 7) 1 a secure or cause to be
supported from above, esp. With the lower part free. B (foll. By up, on, on to,
etc.) Attach by suspending from the top. 2 set up (a door etc.) On hinges. 3 place
(a picture) on a wall or in an exhibition. 4 attach (wallpaper) to a wall. 5 (foll. By
on) colloq. Blame (a thing) on (a person) (can’t hang that on me). 6 (foll. By
with) decorate by suspending pictures etc. (hall hung with tapestries). 7 (past and
past part. Hanged) a suspend or be suspended by the neck with a noosed rope
until dead, esp. As a form of capital punishment. B as a mild oath (hang the
expense). 8 let droop (hang one’s head). 9 suspend (meat or game) from a hook
and leave until dry, tender, or high. 10 be or remain hung (in various senses). 11
remain static in the air. 12 (often foll. By over) be present or imminent, esp.
Oppressively or threateningly (a hush hung over the room). 13 (foll. By on) a be
contingent or dependent on (everything hangs on his reply). B listen closely to
(hangs on my every word). —n. Way a thing hangs or falls. get the hang of
colloq. Understand the technique or meaning of. Hang about (or around) 1 a
stand about or spend time aimlessly; not move away. B linger near (a person or
place). 2 (often foll. By with) colloq. Associate with. Hang back show reluctance
to act or move. Hang fire be slow in taking action or in progressing. Hang
heavily (or heavy) (of time) seem to pass slowly. Hang in us colloq. 1 persist,
persevere. 2 linger. Hang on 1 (often foll. By to) continue to hold or grasp. 2
(foll. By to) retain; fail to give back. 3 colloq. A wait for a short time. B (in
telephoning) not ring off during a pause in the conversation. 4 colloq. Continue;
persevere. Hang out 1 suspend from a window, clothes-line, etc. 2 a protrude
downwards (shirt hanging out). B (foll. By of) lean out of (a window etc.). 3
slang frequent or live in a place. Hang together 1 make sense. 2 remain
associated. Hang up 1 hang from a hook etc. 2 (often foll. By on) end a
telephone conversation by replacing the receiver (he hung up on me). 3 (usu. In
passive, foll. By on) slang be a psychological problem or obsession for (is hung
up on her father). Not care (or give) a hang colloq. Not care at all. [old english]
Hanger n. 1 person or thing that hangs. 2 (in full coat-hanger) shaped piece of
wood etc. For hanging clothes on.
Hang-glider n. Glider with a fabric wing on a light frame, from which the
operator is suspended. hang-glide v. Hang-gliding n.
Hangnail n. = *agnail.
Hangover n. 1 severe headache etc. From drinking too much alcohol. 2 survival
from the past.
Hanker v. (foll. By for, after, or to + infin.) Long for; crave. hankering n. [from
obsolete hank]
Hansom n. (in full hansom cab) hist. Two-wheeled horse-drawn cab. [hansom,
name of an architect]
Haphazard adj. Done etc. By chance; random. haphazardly adv. [archaic hap
chance, luck, from old norse happ]
Haploid adj. (of an organism or cell) with a single set of chromosomes. [greek
haplous single, eidos form]
haplous single, eidos form]
Happy hour n. Time of the day when goods, esp. Drinks, are sold at reduced
prices.
Harangue —n. Lengthy and earnest speech. —v. (-guing) make a harangue to;
lecture. [french arenge from medieval latin]
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
common, but is considered incorrect by some people.
Harbor (brit. Harbour) —n. 1 place of shelter for ships. 2 shelter; refuge. —v. 1
give shelter to (esp. A criminal). 2 keep in one’s mind (esp. Resentment etc.).
[old english, = army shelter]
Harbour (us harbor) —n. 1 place of shelter for ships. 2 shelter; refuge. —v. 1
give shelter to (esp. A criminal). 2 keep in one’s mind (esp. Resentment etc.).
[old english, = army shelter]
Hard —adj. 1 (of a substance etc.) Firm and solid. 2 a difficult to understand,
explain, or accomplish. B (foll. By to + infin.) Not easy to (hard to please). 3
difficult to bear (a hard life). 4 unfeeling; severely critical. 5 (of a season or the
weather) severe. 6 unpleasant to the senses, harsh (hard colours). 7 a strenuous,
enthusiastic, intense (a hard worker). B severe, uncompromising (a hard
bargain). C polit. Extreme; most radical (the hard right). 8 a (of liquor) strongly
alcoholic. B (of drugs) potent and addictive. C (of pornography) highly obscene.
9 (of water) containing mineral salts that make lathering difficult. 10 established;
not disputable (hard facts). 11 (of currency, prices, etc.) High; not likely to fall in
value. 12 (of a consonant) guttural (as c in cat, g in go). —adv. Strenuously,
intensely, copiously (try hard; raining hard). be hard on 1 be difficult for. 2 be
severe in one’s treatment or criticism of. 3 be unpleasant to (the senses). Be hard
put to it (usu. Foll. By to + infin.) Find it difficult. Hard by close by. Hard on (or
upon) close to in pursuit etc. hardish adj. Hardness n. [old english]
Hard and fast adj. (of a rule or distinction) definite, unalterable, strict.
Hardback —adj. Bound in boards covered with cloth etc. —n. Hardback book.
Hard-boiled adj. 1 (of an egg) boiled until the white and yolk are solid. 2 colloq.
(of a person) tough, shrewd.
Hard core n. 1 irreducible nucleus. 2 colloq. A the most committed members of a
society etc. B conservative or reactionary minority (see also *hardcore).
Hardly adv. 1 scarcely; only just (hardly knew me). 2 only with difficulty (can
hardly see). 3 surely not (can hardly have realised). hardly any almost no; almost
none. Hardly ever very seldom.
Hardy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 robust; capable of enduring difficult conditions. 2 (of a
plant) able to grow in the open air all year. hardiness n. [french hardi made bold]
Hare —n. Mammal like a large rabbit, with long ears, short tail, and long hind
legs. —v. (-ring) run rapidly. [old english]
Haricot n. (in full haricot bean) variety of french bean with small white seeds
dried and used as a vegetable. [french]
Hark v. (usu. In imper.) Archaic listen attentively. hark back revert to earlier
topic. [old english]
Harlequin —n. (harlequin) name of a mute character in pantomime, usu. Masked
and dressed in a diamond-patterned costume. —attrib. Adj. In varied colours.
[french]
Harm —n. Hurt, damage. —v. Cause harm to. out of harm’s way in safety. [old
english]
Harmless adj. 1 not able or likely to cause harm. 2 inoffensive. harmlessly adv.
Harmlessness n.
Harp —n. Large upright stringed instrument plucked with the fingers. —v. (foll.
By on, on about) talk repeatedly and tediously about. harpist n. [old english]
Harpoon —n. Barbed spearlike missile with a rope attached, for catching whales
etc. —v. Spear with a harpoon. [greek harpe sickle]
Harpy n. (pl. -ies) 1 mythological monster with a woman’s head and body and a
bird’s wings and claws. 2 grasping unscrupulous person. [greek harpuiai
snatchers]
Harrow —n. Heavy frame with iron teeth dragged over ploughed land to break
up clods etc. —v. 1 draw a harrow over (land). 2 (usu. As harrowing adj.)
Distress greatly. [old norse hervi]
Harsh adj. 1 unpleasantly rough or sharp, esp. To the senses. 2 severe, cruel.
harshen v. Harshly adv. Harshness n. [low german]
Hart n. (pl. Same or -s) male of the (esp. Red) deer, esp. After its 5th year. [old
english]
Harum-scarum colloq. —adj. Wild and reckless. —n. Such a person. [rhyming
formation on *hare, *scare]
Harvest moon n. Full moon nearest to the autumn equinox (22 or 23 sept.).
Hash1 —n. 1 dish of cooked meat cut into small pieces and reheated. 2 a
mixture; jumble. B mess. 3 recycled material. —v. (often foll. By up) recycle
(old material). make a hash of colloq. Make a mess of; bungle.
Haslet n. Pieces of (esp. Pig’s) offal cooked together, usu. As a meat loaf.
[french hastelet]
Hasp n. Hinged metal clasp fitting over a staple and secured by a padlock. [old
english]
Hassle colloq. —n. Trouble; problem; argument. —v. (-ling) harass, annoy.
[originally a dial. Word]
Haste —n. Urgency of movement or action; excessive hurry. —v. (-ting) archaic
= *hasten 1. in haste quickly, hurriedly. Make haste hurry; be quick. [french
from germanic]
Hasty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 hurried; acting too quickly. 2 said, made, or done too
quickly or too soon; rash. hastily adv. Hastiness n.
Hat n. 1 (esp. Outdoor) covering for the head. 2 colloq. Person’s present capacity
(wearing his managerial hat). keep it under one’s hat colloq. Keep it secret. Pass
the hat round collect contributions of money. Take one’s hat off to colloq.
Acknowledge admiration for. [old english]
Hatch2 —v. 1 a (often foll. By out) (of a young bird or fish etc.) Emerge from
the egg. B (of an egg) produce a young animal. 2 incubate (an egg). 3 (also foll.
By up) devise (a plot etc.). —n. 1 act of hatching. 2 brood hatched. [earlier
hacche, from germanic]
Hatch3 v. Mark with close parallel lines. hatching n. [french hacher: related to
*hash1]
Hatchback n. Car with a sloping back hinged at the top to form a door.
Hatchet man n. Colloq. Person hired to kill, dismiss, or otherwise harm another.
Hat trick n. 1 cricket taking of three wickets by the same bowler with three
successive balls. 2 three consecutive successes etc.
Haughty adj. (-ier, -iest) arrogant and disdainful. haughtily adv. Haughtiness n.
Haughty adj. (-ier, -iest) arrogant and disdainful. haughtily adv. Haughtiness n.
[haught, haut from french, = high]
Haul —v. 1 pull or drag forcibly. 2 transport by lorry, cart, etc. 3 turn a ship’s
course. 4 colloq. (usu. Foll. By up) bring for reprimand or trial. —n. 1 hauling. 2
amount gained or acquired. 3 distance to be traversed (a short haul). haul over
the coals see *coal. [french haler from old norse hala]
Haulm n. (also halm) 1 stalk or stem. 2 stalks or stems of peas, beans, etc.,
collectively. [old english]
Haunch n. 1 fleshy part of the buttock with the thigh. 2 leg and loin of a deer etc.
As food. [french from germanic]
Haunt —v. 1 (of a ghost) visit (a place) regularly. 2 frequent (a place). 3 linger
in the mind of. —n. Place frequented by a person or animal. [french from
germanic]
Haunting adj. (of a memory, melody, etc.) Tending to linger in the mind;
poignant, evocative.
Haute couture n. High fashion; leading fashion houses or their products. [french]
Have —v. (-ving; 3rd sing. Present has; past and past part. Had) 1 as an auxiliary
verb with past part. Or ellipt., to form the perfect, pluperfect, and future perfect
tenses, and the conditional mood (has, had, will have, seen; had i known, i would
have gone; yes, i have). 2 own or be able to use; be provided with (has a car; had
no time). 3 hold in a certain relationship (has a sister; had no equals). 4 contain
as a part or quality (box has a lid; has big eyes). 5 a experience (had a good time,
a shock, a pain). B be subjected to a specified state (had my car stolen; book has
a page missing). C cause (a person or thing) to be in a particular state or take
particular action (had him sacked; had us worried; had my hair cut; had a copy
made; had them to stay). 6 a engage in (an activity) (have an argument, sex). B
hold (a meeting, party, etc.). 7 eat or drink (had a beer). 8 (usu. In neg.) Accept
or tolerate; permit to (i won’t have it; won’t have you say that). 9 a feel (have no
doubt; has nothing against me). B show (mercy, pity, etc.). C (foll. By to +
infin.) Show by action that one is influenced by (a feeling, quality, etc.) (have
the sense to stop). 10 a give birth to (offspring). B conceive mentally (an idea
etc.). 11 receive, obtain (had a letter from him; not a ticket to be had). 12 be
burdened with or committed to (has a job to do). 13 a have obtained (a
qualification) (has six o levels). B know (a language) (has no latin). 14 slang a
get the better of (i had him there). B (usu. In passive) cheat, deceive (you were
had). 15 coarse slang have sexual intercourse with. —n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Colloq.
Person with wealth or resources. 2 slang swindle. had best see best. Had better
see better. Have got to colloq. = have to. Have had it colloq. 1 have missed one’s
chance. 2 have passed one’s prime. 3 have been killed, defeated, etc. Have it 1
(foll. By that) maintain that. 2 win a decision in a vote etc. 3 colloq. Have found
the answer etc. Have it away (or off) coarse slang have sexual intercourse. Have
it in for colloq. Be hostile or ill-disposed towards. Have it out (often foll. By
with) colloq. Attempt to settle a dispute by argument. Have on 1 wear (clothes).
2 have (an engagement). 3 colloq. Tease, hoax. Have to be obliged to, must.
Have up colloq. Bring (a person) before a judge, interviewer, etc. [old english]
Haversack n. Stout canvas bag carried on the back or over the shoulder. [german
habersack, = oats-sack]
Hawfinch n. Large finch with a thick beak for cracking seeds. [from *haw1,
*finch]
Hawk1 —n. 1 bird of prey with a curved beak, rounded short wings, and a long
tail. 2 polit. Person who advocates aggressive policies. —v. Hunt with a hawk.
tail. 2 polit. Person who advocates aggressive policies. —v. Hunt with a hawk.
hawkish adj. [old english]
Hawk2 v. Carry about or offer (goods) for sale. [back-formation from *hawker]
Hawk3 v. 1 clear the throat noisily. 2 (foll. By up) bring (phlegm etc.) Up from
the throat. [imitative]
Hawker n. Person who travels about selling goods. [low german or dutch]
Hawser n. Thick rope or cable for mooring or towing a ship. [french, haucier
hoist, from latin altus high]
Health visitor n. Trained nurse who visits mothers and babies, or the sick or
elderly, at home.
Heap —n. 1 disorderly pile. 2 (esp. In pl.) Colloq. Large number or amount. 3
Heap —n. 1 disorderly pile. 2 (esp. In pl.) Colloq. Large number or amount. 3
slang dilapidated vehicle. —v. 1 (foll. By up, together, etc.) Collect or be
collected in a heap. 2 (foll. By with) load copiously with. 3 (foll. By on, upon)
give or offer copiously (heaped insults on them). [old english]
Hear v. (past and past part. Heard) 1 (also absol.) Perceive with the ear. 2 listen
to (heard them on the radio). 3 listen judicially to (a case etc.). 4 be told or
informed. 5 (foll. By from) be contacted by, esp. By letter or telephone. 6 be
ready to obey (an order). 7 grant (a prayer). have heard of be aware of the
existence of. Hear! Hear! Int. Expressing agreement. Hear a person out listen to
all a person says. Will not hear of will not allow. hearer n. [old english]
Hearken v. Archaic (often foll. By to) listen. [old english: related to *hark]
Hearse n. Vehicle for conveying the coffin at a funeral. [french herse harrow,
from latin hirpex large rake]
Heart-lung machine n. Machine that temporarily takes over the functions of the
heart and lungs.
Heartthrob n. Colloq. Person for whom one has (esp. Immature) romantic
feelings.
Hearty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 strong, vigorous. 2 (of a meal or appetite) large. 3
warm, friendly. heartiness n.
Heat —n. 1 condition of being hot. 2 physics form of energy arising from the
motion of bodies’ molecules. 3 hot weather. 4 warmth of feeling; anger or
excitement. 5 (foll. By of) most intense part or period of activity (heat of battle).
6 (usu. Preliminary or trial) round in a race etc. —v. 1 make or become hot or
warm. 2 inflame. on heat (of mammals, esp. Females) sexually receptive. [old
english]
Heath n. 1 area of flattish uncultivated land with low shrubs. 2 plant growing on
a heath, esp. Heather. [old english]
Heather n. Any of various shrubs growing esp. On moors and heaths. [origin
unknown]
Heave —v. (-ving; past and past part. Heaved or esp. Naut. Hove) 1 lift or haul
with great effort. 2 utter with effort (heaved a sigh). 3 colloq. Throw. 4 rise and
fall rhythmically or spasmodically. 5 naut. Haul by rope. 6 retch. —n. Heaving.
heave in sight come into view. Heave to esp. Naut. Bring or be brought to a
standstill. [old english]
Heaven n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of god and the angels,
and of the blessed after death. 2 place or state of supreme bliss. 3 colloq.
Delightful thing. 4 (usu. Heaven) god, providence (often as an exclamation or
mild oath: heavens). 5 (the heavens) esp. Poet. The sky as seen from the earth, in
which the sun, moon, and stars appear. heavenward adv. (also heavenwards).
[old english]
Heavier-than-air attrib. Adj. (of an aircraft) weighing more than the air it
displaces.
Heavy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of great or unusually high weight; difficult to lift. 2 of
great density (heavy metal). 3 abundant, considerable (heavy crop; heavy
traffic). 4 severe, intense, extensive (heavy fighting; a heavy sleep). 5 doing a
thing to excess (heavy drinker). 6 striking or falling with force; causing strong
impact (heavy blows; heavy rain; heavy sea; a heavy fall). 7 (of machinery,
artillery, etc.) Very large of its kind; large in calibre etc. 8 needing much
physical effort (heavy work). 9 carrying heavy weapons (the heavy brigade). 10
serious or sombre in tone or attitude; dull, tedious. 11 a hard to digest. B hard to
read or understand. 12 (of bread etc.) Too dense from not having risen. 13 (of
ground) difficult to traverse or work. 14 oppressive; hard to endure (heavy
demands). 15 a coarse, ungraceful (heavy features). B unwieldy. —n. (pl. -ies) 1
colloq. Large violent person; thug (esp. Hired). 2 villainous or tragic role or
actor. 3 (usu. In pl.) Colloq. Serious newspaper. 4 anything large or heavy of its
kind, e.g. A vehicle. —adv. Heavily (esp. In comb.: heavy-laden).
Heavy metal n. 1 heavy guns. 2 metal of high density. 3 colloq. Loud kind of
rock music with a pounding rhythm.
Hebdomadal adj. Formal weekly, esp. Meeting weekly. [greek hepta seven]
Hebe n. Evergreen flowering shrub from new zealand. [greek goddess hebe]
Heckle —v. (-ling) interrupt and harass (a public speaker). —n. Act of heckling.
heckler n. [var. Of *hackle]
Hectare n. Metric unit of square measure, 100 ares (2.471 acres or 10,000 square
metres). [french: related to hecto-, are2]
Hectic adj. 1 busy and confused; excited. 2 feverish. hectically adv. [greek
hektikos habitual]
Hector —v. Bully, intimidate. —n. Bully. [from the name hector in the iliad]
Heed —v. Attend to; take notice of. —n. Careful attention. heedful adj. Heedless
adj. Heedlessly adv. [old english]
Heel1 —n. 1 back of the foot below the ankle. 2 a part of a sock etc. Covering
this. B part of a shoe etc. Supporting this. 3 thing like a heel in form or position.
4 crust end of a loaf of bread. 5 colloq. Scoundrel. 6 (as int.) Command to a dog
to walk close to its owner’s heel. —v. 1 fit or renew a heel on (a shoe etc.). 2
touch the ground with the heel as in dancing. 3 (foll. By out) rugby pass the ball
with the heel. at heel 1 (of a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under
control. At (or on) the heels of following closely after (a person or event). Cool
(or kick) one’s heels be kept waiting. Down at heel 1 (of a shoe) with the heel
worn down. 2 (of a person) shabby. Take to one’s heels run away. To heel 1 (of
a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under control. Turn on one’s heel turn
sharply round. [old english]
Heel2 —v. (often foll. By over) 1 (of a ship etc.) Lean over. 2 cause (a ship etc.)
To do this. —n. Act or amount of heeling. [obsolete heeld, from germanic]
To do this. —n. Act or amount of heeling. [obsolete heeld, from germanic]
Hefty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person) big and strong. 2 (of a thing) large, heavy,
powerful. heftily adv. Heftiness n. [heft weight: related to *heave]
Hegira n. (also hejira) 1 muhammad’s flight from mecca in ad 622. 2 muslim era
reckoned from this date. [arabic hijra departure]
Heifer n. Young cow, esp. One that has not had more than one calf. [old english]
Height n. 1 measurement from base to top or head to foot. 2 elevation above the
ground or a recognized level. 3 considerable elevation (situated at a height). 4
high place or area. 5 top. 6 a most intense part or period (battle was at its height).
B extreme example (the height of fashion). [old english]
Heinous adj. Utterly odious or wicked. [french haïr hate]
Heir n. (fem. Heiress) person entitled to property or rank as the legal successor
of its former holder. [latin heres hered-]
Heir apparent n. Heir whose claim cannot be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Heirloom n. 1 piece of personal property that has been in a family for several
generations. 2 piece of property as part of an inheritance.
Heir presumptive n. Heir whose claim may be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Hele v. (-ling) (also heel) (foll. By in) set (a plant) in the ground temporarily and
cover its roots. [old english]
Heliocentric adj. 1 regarding the sun as centre. 2 considered as viewed from the
sun’s centre.
Heliotrope n. Plant with fragrant purple flowers. [greek: related to *helio-, trepo
turn]
Helix n. (pl. Helices) spiral curve (like a corkscrew) or coiled curve (like a watch
spring). [latin from greek]
Hell —n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of the dead, or of
devils and condemned sinners. 2 place or state of misery or wickedness. —int.
Expressing anger, surprise, etc. the hell (usu. Prec. By what, where, who, etc.)
Expressing anger, disbelief, etc. (who the hell is this?; the hell you are!). Beat
etc. The hell out of colloq. Beat etc. Without restraint. Come hell or high water
no matter what the difficulties. For the hell of it colloq. Just for fun. Get hell
colloq. Be severely scolded or punished. Give a person hell colloq. Scold or
punish a person. A (or one) hell of a colloq. Outstanding example of (a hell of a
mess; one hell of a party). Like hell colloq. 1 not at all. 2 recklessly,
exceedingly. [old english]
Hellebore n. Evergreen plant with usu. White, purple, or green flowers, e.g. The
christmas rose. [greek (h)elleborus]
Hellenistic adj. Of greek history, language, and culture of the late 4th to the late
1st c. Bc.
Hell for leather adv. At full speed.
Helm n. Tiller or wheel for controlling a ship’s rudder. at the helm in control; at
the head of an organization etc. [old english]
Helot n. Serf, esp. (helot) of a class in ancient sparta. [latin from greek]
Help —v. 1 provide with the means towards what is needed or sought (helped
Help —v. 1 provide with the means towards what is needed or sought (helped
me with my work; helped me (to) pay my debts; helped him on with his coat). 2
(often absol.) Be of use or service to (does that help?). 3 contribute to alleviating
(a pain or difficulty). 4 prevent or remedy (it can’t be helped). 5 (usu. With neg.)
A refrain from (can’t help it; could not help laughing). B refl. Refrain from
acting (couldn’t help himself). 6 (often foll. By to) serve (a person with food). —
n. 1 helping or being helped (need your help; came to our help). 2 person or
thing that helps. 3 colloq. Domestic assistant or assistance. 4 remedy or escape
(there is no help for it). help oneself (often foll. By to) 1 serve oneself (with food
etc.). 2 take without permission. Help a person out give a person help, esp. In
difficulty. helper n.
Helter-skelter —adv. & adj. In disorderly haste. —n. (at a fairground) external
spiral slide round a tower. [imitative]
Hem1 —n. Border of cloth where the edge is turned under and sewn down. —v.
(-mm-) turn down and sew in the edge of (cloth etc.). hem in confine; restrict the
movement of. [old english]
Hemipterous adj. Of the insect order including aphids, bugs, and cicadas, with
piercing or sucking mouthparts. [greek pteron wing]
Hemisphere n. 1 half a sphere. 2 half of the earth, esp. As divided by the equator
(into northern and southern hemisphere) or by a line passing through the poles
(into eastern and western hemisphere). hemispherical adj. [greek: related to
hemi-, sphere]
Hemlock n. 1 poisonous plant with fernlike leaves and small white flowers. 2
poison made from this. [old english]
Hemophilia n. (brit. Haem-) hereditary failure of the blood to clot normally with
the tendency to bleed severely from even a slight injury. [greek haima blood,
philia loving]
Hemorrhage (brit. Haem-) —n. 1 profuse loss of blood from a ruptured blood-
vessel. 2 damaging loss, esp. Of people or assets. —v. (-ging) suffer a
haemorrhage. [greek haima blood, rhegnumi burst]
Hemorrhoids n.pl. (brit. Haem-) swollen veins in the wall of the anus; piles.
[greek haima blood, -rhoos -flowing]
Hemp n. 1 (in full indian hemp) asian herbaceous plant. 2 its fibre used to make
rope and stout fabrics. 3 narcotic drug made from the hemp plant. [old english]
Hemstitch —n. Decorative stitch. —v. Hem with this stitch.
Hence adv. 1 from this time (two years hence). 2 for this reason (hence we seem
to be wrong). 3 archaic from here. [old english]
Henchman n. Usu. Derog. Trusted supporter. [old english hengst horse, *man]
Henna —n. 1 tropical shrub. 2 reddish dye made from it and used to colour hair.
—v. (hennaed, hennaing) dye with henna. [arabic]
Heptagon n. Plane figure with seven sides and angles. heptagonal adj. [greek:
related to *hepta-, -gonos angled]
Her —pron. 1 objective case of she (i like her). 2 colloq. She (it’s her all right;
am older than her). —poss. Pron. (attrib.) Of or belonging to her or herself (her
house; her own business). [old english dative and genitive of she]
Herb n. 1 any non-woody seed-bearing plant. 2 plant with leaves, seeds, or
flowers used for flavouring, food, medicine, scent, etc. herby adj. (-ier, -iest).
[latin herba]
Herbal —adj. Of herbs in medicinal and culinary use. —n. Book describing the
medicinal and culinary uses of herbs.
Herbivore n. Animal that feeds on plants. herbivorous adj. [latin voro devour]
Herculean adj. Having or requiring great strength or effort. [from the name
hercules, latin alteration of greek herakles]
hercules, latin alteration of greek herakles]
Hereafter —adv. From now on; in the future. —n. 1 the future. 2 life after death.
Hereditary adj. 1 (of a disease, instinct, etc.) Able to be passed down genetically
from one generation to another. 2 a descending by inheritance. B holding a
position by inheritance. [latin: related to *heir]
Hereford n. Animal of a breed of red and white beef cattle. [hereford in england]
Hereinafter adv. Esp. Law formal 1 from this point on. 2 in a later part of this
document etc.
Heresy n. (pl. -ies) 1 esp. Rc ch. Religious belief or practice contrary to orthodox
Heresy n. (pl. -ies) 1 esp. Rc ch. Religious belief or practice contrary to orthodox
doctrine. 2 opinion contrary to what is normally accepted or maintained. [greek
hairesis choice]
Hermaphrodite —n. Person, animal, or plant having both male and female
reproductive organs. —adj. Combining both sexes. hermaphroditic adj. [from
hermaphroditus, son of hermes and aphrodite who became joined in one body to
a nymph]
a nymph]
Hermetic adj. With an airtight closure. hermetically adv. [from the greek god
hermes, regarded as the founder of alchemy]
Hernia n. Protrusion of part of an organ through the wall of the body cavity
containing it. [latin]
Hero n. (pl. -es) 1 person noted or admired for nobility, courage, outstanding
achievements, etc. 2 chief male character in a play, story, etc. [greek heros]
Heroic —adj. Of, fit for, or like a hero; very brave. —n. (in pl.) 1 high-flown
language or sentiments. 2 unduly bold behaviour. heroically adv.
Heroine n. 1 woman noted or admired for nobility, courage, outstanding
achievements, etc. 2 chief female character in a play, story, etc. [greek: related to
*hero]
Heron n. Long-legged wading bird with a long sshaped neck. [french from
germanic]
Herr n. (pl. Herren) 1 title of a german man; mr. 2 german man. [german]
Herring n. (pl. Same or -s) n. Atlantic fish used as food. [old english]
Hers poss. Pron. The one or ones belonging to or associated with her (it is hers;
hers are over there). of hers of or belonging to her (friend of hers).
hers are over there). of hers of or belonging to her (friend of hers).
Herself pron. 1 a emphat. Form of *she or her (she herself will do it). B refl.
Form of her (she has hurt herself). 2 in her normal state of body or mind (does
not feel quite herself today). be herself see oneself. By herself see by oneself.
[old english: related to her, *self]
Hertz n. (pl. Same) si unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second. [hertz,
name of a physicist]
Heterodox adj. Not orthodox. heterodoxy n. [from *hetero-, greek doxa opinion]
Heterodyne adj. Radio relating to the production of a lower frequency from the
combination of two almost equal high frequencies. [from *hetero-, greek
combination of two almost equal high frequencies. [from *hetero-, greek
dunamis force]
Het up predic. Adj. Colloq. Excited, overwrought. [het, a dial. Word = heated]
Hew v. (past part. Hewn or hewed) 1 chop or cut with an axe, sword, etc. 2 cut
into shape. [old english]
Hexagon n. Plane figure with six sides and angles. hexagonal adj. [greek: related
to *hexa-, -gonos angled]
Hey int. Calling attention or expressing joy, surprise, inquiry, etc. [imitative]
Hezbollah n. (also hiz-) extreme shiite muslim group, active esp. In lebanon.
[arabic hisbullah party of god]
Hf symb. Hafnium.
Hg symb. Mercury.
Hg abbr. Hectogram(s).
Hiatus n. (pl. -tuses) 1 break or gap in a series or sequence. 2 break between two
vowels coming together but not in the same syllable, as in though oft the ear.
[latin hio gape]
Hibernian archaic poet. —adj. Of ireland. —n. Native of ireland. [latin hibernia
ireland]
Hickory n. (pl. -ies) 1 n. American tree yielding wood and nutlike edible fruits. 2
the tough heavy wood of this. [virginian pohickery]
Hide1 —v. (-ding; past hid; past part. Hidden) 1 put or keep out of sight. 2
conceal oneself. 3 (usu. Foll. By from) keep (a fact) secret. 4 conceal. —n.
Camouflaged shelter used for observing wildlife. hider n. [old english]
Hide2 n. 1 animal’s skin, esp. When tanned or dressed. 2 colloq. The human
skin, esp. The backside. [old english]
Hide-and-seek n. Game in which players hide and another searches for them.
Hideous adj. 1 very ugly, revolting. 2 colloq. Unpleasant. hideosity n. (pl. -ies).
Hideously adv. [anglo-french hidous]
Hiding2 n. 1 act of hiding. 2 state of remaining hidden (go into hiding). [from
*hide1]
Hierarchy n. (pl. -ies) system of grades of status or authority ranked one above
the other. hierarchical adj. [greek hieros sacred, arkho rule]
Hi-fi colloq. —adj. Of high fidelity. —n. (pl. -s) set of high-fidelity equipment.
[abbreviation]
Highball n. Us drink of spirits and soda etc., served with ice in a tall glass.
High chair n. Infant’s chair with long legs and a tray for meals.
High court n. (also in england high court of justice) supreme court of justice for
civil cases.
Higher animal n. (also higher plant) animal or plant evolved to a high degree.
High gear n. Gear such that the driven end of a transmission revolves faster than
the driving end.
High jump n. 1 athletic event consisting of jumping over a high bar. 2 colloq.
Drastic punishment (he’s for the high jump).
Highland —n. (usu. In pl.) 1 area of high land. 2 (the highlands) mountainous
part of scotland. —adj. Of or in a highland or the highlands. highlander n. (also
highlander). [old english, = promontory: related to *high]
High priest n. (fem. High priestess) 1 chief priest, esp. Jewish. 2 head of a cult.
High-rise —attrib. Adj. (of a building) having many storeys. —n. Such a
building.
High sea n. (also high seas) open seas not under any country’s jurisdiction.
High tea n. Evening meal usu. Consisting of a cooked dish, bread and butter, tea,
etc.
High time n. Time that is overdue (it is high time they arrived).
Highway n. 1 a public road. B main route. 2 direct course of action (on the
highway to success).
highway to success).
Hike —n. 1 long walk, esp. In the country for pleasure. 2 rise in prices etc. —v.
(-king) 1 go for a hike. 2 walk laboriously. 3 (usu. Foll. By up) hitch up (clothing
etc.); become hitched up. 4 (usu. Foll. By up) raise (prices etc.). hiker n. [origin
unknown]
Hill n. 1 naturally raised area of land, lower than a mountain. 2 (often in comb.)
Heap, mound (anthill). 3 sloping piece of road. over the hill colloq. Past the
prime of life. [old english]
Hilt n. Handle of a sword, dagger, etc. up to the hilt completely. [old english]
Him pron. 1 objective case of he (i saw him). 2 colloq. He (it’s him again; taller
than him). [old english, dative of he]
Himself pron. 1 a emphat. Form of *he or him (he himself will do it). B refl.
Form of him (he has hurt himself). 2 in his normal state of body or mind (does
not feel quite himself today). be himself see oneself. By himself see by oneself.
[old english: related to him, *self]
Hind1 adj. At the back (hind leg). [old english hindan from behind]
Hind2 n. Female (esp. Red) deer, esp. In and after the third year. [old english]
Hindu —n. (pl. -s) follower of hinduism. —adj. Of hindus or hinduism. [urdu
hind india]
Hinduism n. Main religious and social system of india, including the belief in
reincarnation, several gods, and a caste system.
reincarnation, several gods, and a caste system.
Hinge —n. 1 movable joint on which a door, lid, etc., turns or swings. 2
principle on which all depends. —v. (-ging) 1 (foll. By on) depend (on a
principle, an event, etc.). 2 attach or be attached by a hinge. [related to *hang]
Hinny n. (pl. -ies) offspring of a female donkey and a male horse. [greek hinnos]
Hip1 n. Projection of the pelvis and the upper part of the thigh-bone. [old
english]
Hip3 int. Introducing a united cheer (hip, hip, hooray). [origin unknown]
Hip4 adj. (also hep) (-pper, -ppest) slang trendy, stylish. [origin unknown]
Hip hop n. (also hip-hop) subculture combining rap music, graffiti art, and
break-dancing. [from *hip4]
Hippie n. (also hippy) (pl. -ies) colloq. (esp. In the 1960s) person rejecting
convention, typically with long hair, jeans, beads, etc., and taking hallucinogenic
drugs. [from *hip4]
Hippopotamus n. (pl. -muses or -mi) large african mammal with short legs and
thick skin, living by rivers, lakes, etc. [greek hippos horse, potamos river]
Hipster1 —attrib. Adj. (of a garment) hanging from the hips rather than the
waist. —n. (in pl.) Such trousers.
Hire —v. (-ring) 1 purchase the temporary use of (a thing) (hired a van). 2 esp.
Us employ (a person). —n. 1 hiring or being hired. 2 payment for this. for (or
on) hire ready to be hired. Hire out grant the temporary use of (a thing) for
payment. hireable adj. Hirer n. [old english]
His poss. Pron. 1 (attrib.) Of or belonging to him or himself (his house; his own
business). 2 the one or ones belonging to or associated with him (it is his; his are
over there). of his of or belonging to him (friend of his). [old english, genitive of
*he]
Hispanic —adj. 1 of spain or spain and portugal. 2 of spain and other spanish-
speaking countries. —n. Spanish-speaking person living in the us. [latin hispania
spain]
Hiss —v. 1 make a sharp sibilant sound, as of the letter s. 2 express disapproval
of by hisses. 3 whisper urgently or angrily. —n. 1 sharp sibilant sound as of the
letter s. 2 electronics interference at audio frequencies. [imitative]
History n. (pl. -ies) 1 continuous record of (esp. Public) events. 2 a the study of
past events, esp. Human affairs. B total accumulation of past events, esp.
Relating to human affairs or a particular nation, person, thing, etc. 3 eventful
past (this house has a history). 4 (foll. By of) past record (had a history of
illness). 5 a systematic or critical account of or research into past events etc. B
similar record or account of natural phenomena. 6 historical play. make history
do something memorable. [greek historia inquiry]
Histrionic —adj. (of behaviour) theatrical, dramatic. —n. (in pl.) Insincere and
dramatic behaviour designed to impress. [latin histrio actor]
Hit —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Hit) 1 a strike with a blow or missile. B (of a
moving body) strike with force (the plane hit the ground). C reach (a target etc.)
With a directed missile (hit the wicket). 2 cause to suffer; affect adversely. 3
(often foll. By at, against) direct a blow. 4 (often foll. By against, on) knock (a
part of the body) (hit his head). 5 achieve, reach (hit the right tone; can’t hit the
high notes). 6 colloq. A encounter (hit a snag). B arrive at (hit town). C indulge
heavily in, esp. Liquor etc. (hit the bottle). 7 esp. Us slang rob or kill. 8 occur
forcefully to (it only hit him later). 9 a propel (a ball etc.) With a bat etc. To
score runs or points. B score in this way (hit a six). —n. 1 a blow, stroke. B
collision. 2 shot etc. That hits its target. 3 colloq. Popular success. hit back
retaliate. Hit below the belt 1 esp. Boxing give a foul blow. 2 treat or behave
unfairly. Hit the hay (or sack) colloq. Go to bed. Hit it off (often foll. By with,
together) colloq. Get on well (with a person). Hit the nail on the head state the
truth exactly. Hit on (or upon) find by chance. Hit out deal vigorous physical or
verbal blows. Hit the road slang depart. Hit the roof see *roof. [old english from
old norse]
Hit-and-run attrib. Adj. 1 (of a driver, raider, etc.) Causing damage or injury and
leaving the scene immediately. 2 (of an accident, attack, etc.) Perpetrated by
such a person or people.
Hitch —v. 1 fasten or be fastened with a loop, hook, etc.; tether. 2 move (a
thing) slightly or with a jerk. 3 colloq. A = *hitchhike. B obtain (a lift) by
hitchhiking. —n. 1 temporary obstacle or snag. 2 abrupt pull or push. 3 noose or
knot of various kinds. 4 colloq. Free ride in a vehicle. get hitched colloq. Marry.
Hitch up lift (esp. Clothing) with a jerk. [origin uncertain]
Hittite —n. Member or language of an ancient people of asia minor and syria. —
adj. Of the hittites. [hebrew]
Hiv abbr. Human immunodeficiency virus, either of two viruses causing aids.
Hive n. Beehive. hive off (-ving) separate from a larger group. [old english]
Ho symb. Holmium.
He symb. Helium.
He —pron. (obj. Him; poss. His; pl. They) 1 the man, boy, or male animal
previously named or in question. 2 person etc. Of unspecified sex (if anyone
comes he will have to wait; he who hesitates). —n. 1 male; man. 2 (in comb.)
Male (he-goat). [old english]
Head —n. 1 upper part of the human body, or foremost or upper part of an
animal’s body, containing the brain, mouth, and sense-organs. 2 a seat of
intellect (use your head). B mental aptitude or tolerance (a good head for
business; no head for heights). 3 thing like a head in form or position, esp.: a the
operative part of a tool. B the top of a nail. C the leaves or flowers at the top of a
stem. D foam on the top of a glass of beer etc. 4 a person in charge, esp. The
principal teacher of a school. B position of command. 5 front part of a queue etc.
6 upper end of a table or bed etc. 7 top or highest part of a page, stairs, etc. 8 a
individual person as a unit (£10 per head). B (pl. Same) individual animal as a
unit (20 head). 9 a side of a coin bearing the image of a head. B (usu. In pl.) This
as a choice when tossing a coin. 10 a source of a river etc. B end of a lake at
which a river enters it. 11 height or length of a head as a measure. 12 part of a
machine in contact with or very close to what is being worked on, esp.: a the part
of a tape recorder that touches the moving tape and converts signals. B the part
of a record-player that holds the playing cartridge and stylus. 13 (usu. In phr.
Come to a head) climax, crisis. 14 a confined body of water or steam in an
engine etc. B pressure exerted by this. 15 promontory (esp. In place-names)
(beachy head). 16 heading or headline. 17 fully developed top of a boil etc. 18
colloq. Headache. 19 (attrib.) Chief, principal. —v. 1 be at the head or front of. 2
be in charge of. 3 provide with a head or heading. 4 (often foll. By for) face,
move, or direct in a specified direction (is heading for trouble). 5 hit (a ball etc.)
With the head. above (or over) one’s head beyond one’s understanding. Come to
a head reach a crisis. Get it into one’s head (foll. By that) 1 adopt a mistaken
idea. 2 form a definite plan. Give a person his (or her) head allow a person to act
freely. Go to one’s head 1 make one slightly drunk. 2 make one conceited. Head
off 1 get ahead of so as to intercept and turn aside. 2 forestall. Keep (or lose)
one’s head remain (or fail to remain) calm. Off one’s head slang crazy. Off the
top of one’s head colloq. Impromptu. On one’s (or one’s own) head as one’s
own responsibility. Out of one’s head slang crazy. Over one’s head 1 beyond
one’s understanding. 2 without one’s rightful knowledge or involvement, esp. Of
action taken by a subordinate consulting one’s own superior. 3 with disregard for
one’s own (stronger) claim (was promoted over my head). Put heads together
consult together. Take it into one’s head (foll. By that + clause or to + infin.)
Decide, esp. Impetuously. Turn a person’s head make a person conceited. [old
english]
Headband n. Band worn round the head as decoration or to confine the hair.
Headbanger n. Slang 1 person who shakes his or her head violently to the
rhythm of music; fan of loud music. 2 crazy or eccentric person.
Head-butt —n. Thrust with the head into the chin or body of another person. —
v. Attack with a head-butt.
Headdress n. Covering for the head.
Header n. 1 football shot or pass made with the head. 2 colloq. Headlong fall or
dive. 3 brick etc. Laid at right angles to the face of a wall. 4 (in full header-tank)
tank of water etc. Maintaining pressure in a plumbing system.
Headlamp n. = *headlight.
Headland n. Promontory.
Head-on adj. & adv. 1 with the front foremost (head-on crash). 2 in direct
confrontation.
Headphones n.pl. Set of earphones fitting over the head, for listening to audio
equipment etc.
Headrest n. Support for the head, esp. On a seat.
Headscarf n. Scarf worn round the head and tied under the chin.
Heady adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of liquor) potent. 2 intoxicating, exciting. 3 impulsive,
rash. 4 headachy. headily adv. Headiness n.
Heal v. 1 (often foll. By up) become sound or healthy again. 2 cause to heal. 3
put right (differences etc.). 4 alleviate (sorrow etc.). healer n. [old english:
related to *whole]
Health centre n. Building containing various local medical services and doctors’
practices.
Health visitor n. Trained nurse who visits mothers and babies, or the sick or
elderly, at home.
Heap —n. 1 disorderly pile. 2 (esp. In pl.) Colloq. Large number or amount. 3
slang dilapidated vehicle. —v. 1 (foll. By up, together, etc.) Collect or be
collected in a heap. 2 (foll. By with) load copiously with. 3 (foll. By on, upon)
give or offer copiously (heaped insults on them). [old english]
Hear v. (past and past part. Heard) 1 (also absol.) Perceive with the ear. 2 listen
to (heard them on the radio). 3 listen judicially to (a case etc.). 4 be told or
informed. 5 (foll.
Hearing-aid n. Small device to amplify sound, worn by a partially deaf person.
Hearken v. Archaic (often foll. By to) listen. [old english: related to *hark]
Hearse n. Vehicle for conveying the coffin at a funeral. [french herse harrow,
from latin hirpex large rake]
Heart-lung machine n. Machine that temporarily takes over the functions of the
heart and lungs.
Heartthrob n. Colloq. Person for whom one has (esp. Immature) romantic
feelings.
Hearty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 strong, vigorous. 2 (of a meal or appetite) large. 3
warm, friendly. heartiness n.
Heat —n. 1 condition of being hot. 2 physics form of energy arising from the
motion of bodies’ molecules. 3 hot weather. 4 warmth of feeling; anger or
excitement. 5 (foll. By of) most intense part or period of activity (heat of battle).
6 (usu. Preliminary or trial) round in a race etc. —v. 1 make or become hot or
warm. 2 inflame. on heat (of mammals, esp.
Heath n. 1 area of flattish uncultivated land with low shrubs. 2 plant growing on
a heath, esp. Heather. [old english]
Heather n. Any of various shrubs growing esp. On moors and heaths. [origin
unknown]
Heave —v. (-ving; past and past part. Heaved or esp. Naut. Hove) 1 lift or haul
with great effort. 2 utter with effort (heaved a sigh). 3 colloq. Throw. 4 rise and
fall rhythmically or spasmodically. 5 naut. Haul by rope. 6 retch. —n. Heaving.
heave in sight come into view. Heave to esp. Naut. Bring or be brought to a
standstill. [old english]
Heaven n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of god and the angels,
and of the blessed after death. 2 place or state of supreme bliss. 3 colloq.
Delightful thing. 4 (usu. Heaven) god, providence (often as an exclamation or
mild oath: heavens). 5 (the heavens) esp. Poet. The sky as seen from the earth, in
which the sun, moon, and stars appear. heavenward adv. (also heavenwards).
[old english]
Heavenly bodies n.pl. The sun, stars, planets, etc.
Heavier-than-air attrib. Adj. (of an aircraft) weighing more than the air it
displaces.
Heavy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of great or unusually high weight; difficult to lift. 2 of
great density (heavy metal). 3 abundant, considerable (heavy crop; heavy
traffic). 4 severe, intense, extensive (heavy fighting; a heavy sleep). 5 doing a
thing to excess (heavy drinker). 6 striking or falling with force; causing strong
impact (heavy blows; heavy rain; heavy sea; a heavy fall). 7 (of machinery,
artillery, etc.) Very large of its kind; large in calibre etc. 8 needing much
physical effort (heavy work). 9 carrying heavy weapons (the heavy brigade). 10
serious or sombre in tone or attitude; dull, tedious. 11 a hard to digest. B hard to
read or understand. 12 (of bread etc.) Too dense from not having risen. 13 (of
ground) difficult to traverse or work. 14 oppressive; hard to endure (heavy
demands). 15 a coarse, ungraceful (heavy features). B unwieldy. —n. (pl. -ies) 1
colloq. Large violent person; thug (esp. Hired). 2 villainous or tragic role or
actor. 3 (usu. In pl.) Colloq. Serious newspaper. 4 anything large or heavy of its
kind, e.g. A vehicle. —adv. Heavily (esp. In comb.: heavy-laden). heavy on
using a lot of (heavy on petrol). Make heavy weather of see *weather. heavily
adv. Heaviness n. Heavyish adj. [old english]
Heavy metal n. 1 heavy guns. 2 metal of high density. 3 colloq. Loud kind of
rock music with a pounding rhythm.
Hebdomadal adj. Formal weekly, esp. Meeting weekly. [greek hepta seven]
Hebe n. Evergreen flowering shrub from new zealand. [greek goddess hebe]
Heckle —v. (-ling) interrupt and harass (a public speaker). —n. Act of heckling.
heckler n. [var. Of *hackle]
Hectare n. Metric unit of square measure, 100 ares (2.471 acres or 10,000 square
metres). [french: related to hecto-, are2]
Hectic adj. 1 busy and confused; excited. 2 feverish. hectically adv. [greek
hektikos habitual]
Hector —v. Bully, intimidate. —n. Bully. [from the name hector in the iliad]
He’d contr. 1 he had. 2 he would.
Heed —v. Attend to; take notice of. —n. Careful attention. heedful adj. Heedless
adj. Heedlessly adv. [old english]
Heel1 —n. 1 back of the foot below the ankle. 2 a part of a sock etc. Covering
this. B part of a shoe etc. Supporting this. 3 thing like a heel in form or position.
4 crust end of a loaf of bread. 5 colloq. Scoundrel. 6 (as int.) Command to a dog
to walk close to its owner’s heel. —v. 1 fit or renew a heel on (a shoe etc.). 2
touch the ground with the heel as in dancing. 3 (foll. By out) rugby pass the ball
with the heel. at heel 1 (of a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under
control. At (or on) the heels of following closely after (a person or event). Cool
(or kick) one’s heels be kept waiting. Down at heel 1 (of a shoe) with the heel
worn down. 2 (of a person) shabby. Take to one’s heels run away. To heel 1 (of
a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under control. Turn on one’s heel turn
sharply round. [old english]
Heel2 —v. (often foll. By over) 1 (of a ship etc.) Lean over. 2 cause (a ship etc.)
To do this. —n. Act or amount of heeling. [obsolete heeld, from germanic]
Hefty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person) big and strong. 2 (of a thing) large, heavy,
powerful. heftily adv. Heftiness n. [heft weight: related to *heave]
Hegira n. (also hejira) 1 muhammad’s flight from mecca in ad 622. 2 muslim era
reckoned from this date. [arabic hijra departure]
Heifer n. Young cow, esp. One that has not had more than one calf. [old english]
Height n. 1 measurement from base to top or head to foot. 2 elevation above the
ground or a recognized level. 3 considerable elevation (situated at a height). 4
high place or area. 5 top. 6 a most intense part or period (battle was at its height).
B extreme example (the height of fashion). [old english]
Heir n. (fem. Heiress) person entitled to property or rank as the legal successor
of its former holder. [latin heres hered-]
Heir apparent n. Heir whose claim cannot be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Heirloom n. 1 piece of personal property that has been in a family for several
generations. 2 piece of property as part of an inheritance.
Heir presumptive n. Heir whose claim may be set aside by the birth of another
Heir presumptive n. Heir whose claim may be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Hele v. (-ling) (also heel) (foll. By in) set (a plant) in the ground temporarily and
cover its roots. [old english]
Heliocentric adj. 1 regarding the sun as centre. 2 considered as viewed from the
sun’s centre.
Heliotrope n. Plant with fragrant purple flowers. [greek: related to *helio-, trepo
turn]
Helix n. (pl. Helices) spiral curve (like a corkscrew) or coiled curve (like a watch
spring). [latin from greek]
Hell —n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of the dead, or of
devils and condemned sinners. 2 place or state of misery or wickedness. —int.
Expressing anger, surprise, etc. the hell (usu. Prec. By what, where, who, etc.)
Expressing anger, disbelief, etc. (who the hell is this?; the hell you are!). Beat
etc. The hell out of colloq. Beat etc. Without restraint. Come hell or high water
no matter what the difficulties. For the hell of it colloq. Just for fun. Get hell
colloq. Be severely scolded or punished. Give a person hell colloq. Scold or
punish a person. A (or one) hell of a colloq. Outstanding example of (a hell of a
mess; one hell of a party). Like hell colloq. 1 not at all. 2 recklessly,
exceedingly. [old english]
Hellebore n. Evergreen plant with usu. White, purple, or green flowers, e.g. The
christmas rose. [greek (h)elleborus]
Hellenistic adj. Of greek history, language, and culture of the late 4th to the late
1st c. Bc.
Helm n. Tiller or wheel for controlling a ship’s rudder. at the helm in control; at
the head of an organization etc. [old english]
Helot n. Serf, esp. (helot) of a class in ancient sparta. [latin from greek]
Help —v. 1 provide with the means towards what is needed or sought (helped
me with my work; helped me (to) pay my debts; helped him on with his coat). 2
(often absol.) Be of use or service to (does that help?). 3 contribute to alleviating
(a pain or difficulty). 4 prevent or remedy (it can’t be helped). 5 (usu. With neg.)
A refrain from (can’t help it; could not help laughing). B refl. Refrain from
acting (couldn’t help himself). 6 (often foll. By to) serve (a person with food). —
n. 1 helping or being helped (need your help; came to our help). 2 person or
thing that helps. 3 colloq. Domestic assistant or assistance. 4 remedy or escape
(there is no help for it). help oneself (often foll. By to) 1 serve oneself (with food
etc.). 2 take without permission. Help a person out give a person help, esp. In
difficulty. helper n. [old english]
Helter-skelter —adv. & adj. In disorderly haste. —n. (at a fairground) external
spiral slide round a tower. [imitative]
Hem1 —n. Border of cloth where the edge is turned under and sewn down. —v.
(-mm-) turn down and sew in the edge of (cloth etc.). hem in confine; restrict the
movement of. [old english]
Hemipterous adj. Of the insect order including aphids, bugs, and cicadas, with
piercing or sucking mouthparts. [greek pteron wing]
Hemisphere n. 1 half a sphere. 2 half of the earth, esp. As divided by the equator
(into northern and southern hemisphere) or by a line passing through the poles
(into eastern and western hemisphere). hemispherical adj. [greek: related to
hemi-, sphere]
Hemlock n. 1 poisonous plant with fernlike leaves and small white flowers. 2
poison made from this. [old english]
Hemophilia n. (brit. Haem-) hereditary failure of the blood to clot normally with
the tendency to bleed severely from even a slight injury. [greek haima blood,
philia loving]
Hemophiliac n. (brit. Haem-) person with haemophilia.
Hemorrhage (brit. Haem-) —n. 1 profuse loss of blood from a ruptured blood-
vessel. 2 damaging loss, esp. Of people or assets. —v. (-ging) suffer a
haemorrhage. [greek haima blood, rhegnumi burst]
Hemorrhoids n.pl. (brit. Haem-) swollen veins in the wall of the anus; piles.
[greek haima blood, -rhoos -flowing]
Hemp n. 1 (in full indian hemp) asian herbaceous plant. 2 its fibre used to make
rope and stout fabrics. 3 narcotic drug made from the hemp plant. [old english]
Hence adv. 1 from this time (two years hence). 2 for this reason (hence we seem
to be wrong). 3 archaic from here. [old english]
Henchman n. Usu. Derog. Trusted supporter. [old english hengst horse, *man]
Henna —n. 1 tropical shrub. 2 reddish dye made from it and used to colour hair.
—v. (hennaed, hennaing) dye with henna. [arabic]
Heptagon n. Plane figure with seven sides and angles. heptagonal adj. [greek:
related to *hepta-, -gonos angled]
Her —pron. 1 objective case of she (i like her). 2 colloq. She (it’s her all right;
am older than her). —poss. Pron. (attrib.) Of or belonging to her or herself (her
house; her own business). [old english dative and genitive of she]
Herbal —adj. Of herbs in medicinal and culinary use. —n. Book describing the
medicinal and culinary uses of herbs.
Herbivore n. Animal that feeds on plants. herbivorous adj. [latin voro devour]
Herculean adj. Having or requiring great strength or effort. [from the name
hercules, latin alteration of greek herakles]
Here —adv. 1 in or at or to this place or position (come here; sit here). 2
indicating a person’s presence or a thing offered (my son here will show you;
here is your coat). 3 at this point in the argument, situation, etc. (here i have a
question). —n.
Hereafter —adv. From now on; in the future. —n. 1 the future. 2 life after death.
Hereditary adj. 1 (of a disease, instinct, etc.) Able to be passed down genetically
from one generation to another. 2 a descending by inheritance. B holding a
position by inheritance. [latin: related to *heir]
Hereford n. Animal of a breed of red and white beef cattle. [hereford in england]
Hereinafter adv. Esp. Law formal 1 from this point on. 2 in a later part of this
document etc.
Heresy n. (pl. -ies) 1 esp. Rc ch. Religious belief or practice contrary to orthodox
doctrine. 2 opinion contrary to what is normally accepted or maintained. [greek
hairesis choice]
Heritable adj. 1 law capable of being inherited or of inheriting. 2 biol.
Genetically transmissible from parent to offspring. [french: related to *heir]
Hermaphrodite —n. Person, animal, or plant having both male and female
reproductive organs. —adj. Combining both sexes. hermaphroditic adj. [from
hermaphroditus, son of hermes and aphrodite who became joined in one body to
a nymph]
Hermetic adj. With an airtight closure. hermetically adv. [from the greek god
hermes, regarded as the founder of alchemy]
Hernia n. Protrusion of part of an organ through the wall of the body cavity
containing it. [latin]
Hero n. (pl. -es) 1 person noted or admired for nobility, courage, outstanding
achievements, etc. 2 chief male character in a play, story, etc. [greek heros]
Heroic —adj. Of, fit for, or like a hero; very brave. —n. (in pl.) 1 high-flown
language or sentiments. 2 unduly bold behaviour. heroically adv.
Hay n. Grass mown and dried for fodder. make hay (while the sun shines) seize
opportunities. [old english]
Hay fever n. Allergy with asthmatic symptoms etc., caused by pollen or dust.
Haystack n. (also hayrick) packed pile of hay with a pointed or ridged top.
Hazard —n. 1 danger or risk. 2 source of this. 3 golf obstacle, e.g. A bunker. —
v. 1 venture (hazard a guess). 2 risk. [arabic az-zahr chance, luck]
Hazy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 misty. 2 vague, indistinct. 3 confused, uncertain. hazily
adv. Haziness n. [origin unknown]
He symb. Helium.
He —pron. (obj. Him; poss. His; pl. They) 1 the man, boy, or male animal
previously named or in question. 2 person etc. Of unspecified sex (if anyone
comes he will have to wait; he who hesitates). —n. 1 male; man. 2 (in comb.)
Male (he-goat). [old english]
Head —n. 1 upper part of the human body, or foremost or upper part of an
animal’s body, containing the brain, mouth, and sense-organs. 2 a seat of
intellect (use your head). B mental aptitude or tolerance (a good head for
business; no head for heights). 3 thing like a head in form or position, esp.: a the
operative part of a tool. B the top of a nail. C the leaves or flowers at the top of a
stem. D foam on the top of a glass of beer etc. 4 a person in charge, esp. The
principal teacher of a school. B position of command. 5 front part of a queue etc.
6 upper end of a table or bed etc. 7 top or highest part of a page, stairs, etc. 8 a
individual person as a unit (£10 per head). B (pl. Same) individual animal as a
unit (20 head). 9 a side of a coin bearing the image of a head. B (usu. In pl.) This
as a choice when tossing a coin. 10 a source of a river etc. B end of a lake at
which a river enters it. 11 height or length of a head as a measure. 12 part of a
machine in contact with or very close to what is being worked on, esp.: a the part
of a tape recorder that touches the moving tape and converts signals. B the part
of a record-player that holds the playing cartridge and stylus. 13 (usu. In phr.
Come to a head) climax, crisis. 14 a confined body of water or steam in an
engine etc. B pressure exerted by this. 15 promontory (esp. In place-names)
(beachy head). 16 heading or headline. 17 fully developed top of a boil etc. 18
colloq. Headache. 19 (attrib.) Chief, principal. —v. 1 be at the head or front of. 2
be in charge of. 3 provide with a head or heading. 4 (often foll. By for) face,
move, or direct in a specified direction (is heading for trouble). 5 hit (a ball etc.)
With the head. above (or over) one’s head beyond one’s understanding. Come to
a head reach a crisis. Get it into one’s head (foll. By that) 1 adopt a mistaken
idea. 2 form a definite plan. Give a person his (or her) head allow a person to act
freely. Go to one’s head 1 make one slightly drunk. 2 make one conceited. Head
off 1 get ahead of so as to intercept and turn aside. 2 forestall. Keep (or lose)
one’s head remain (or fail to remain) calm. Off one’s head slang crazy. Off the
top of one’s head colloq. Impromptu. On one’s (or one’s own) head as one’s
own responsibility. Out of one’s head slang crazy. Over one’s head 1 beyond
one’s understanding.
Headband n. Band worn round the head as decoration or to confine the hair.
Headbanger n. Slang 1 person who shakes his or her head violently to the
rhythm of music; fan of loud music. 2 crazy or eccentric person.
Head-butt —n. Thrust with the head into the chin or body of another person. —
v. Attack with a head-butt.
Header n. 1 football shot or pass made with the head. 2 colloq. Headlong fall or
dive. 3 brick etc. Laid at right angles to the face of a wall. 4 (in full header-tank)
tank of water etc. Maintaining pressure in a plumbing system.
Headlamp n. = *headlight.
Headland n. Promontory.
Head-on adj. & adv. 1 with the front foremost (head-on crash). 2 in direct
confrontation.
Headphones n.pl. Set of earphones fitting over the head, for listening to audio
equipment etc.
Headroom n. Space or clearance above a vehicle, person’s head, etc.
Headscarf n. Scarf worn round the head and tied under the chin.
Heady adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of liquor) potent. 2 intoxicating, exciting. 3 impulsive,
rash. 4 headachy. headily adv. Headiness n.
Heal v. 1 (often foll. By up) become sound or healthy again. 2 cause to heal. 3
put right (differences etc.). 4 alleviate (sorrow etc.). healer n. [old english:
related to *whole]
Health centre n. Building containing various local medical services and doctors’
practices.
Health visitor n. Trained nurse who visits mothers and babies, or the sick or
elderly, at home.
Heap —n. 1 disorderly pile. 2 (esp. In pl.) Colloq. Large number or amount. 3
slang dilapidated vehicle. —v. 1 (foll. By up, together, etc.) Collect or be
collected in a heap. 2 (foll. By with) load copiously with. 3 (foll. By on, upon)
give or offer copiously (heaped insults on them). [old english]
Hear v. (past and past part. Heard) 1 (also absol.) Perceive with the ear. 2 listen
to (heard them on the radio). 3 listen judicially to (a case etc.). 4 be told or
informed. 5 (foll. By from) be contacted by, esp. By letter or telephone. 6 be
ready to obey (an order). 7 grant (a prayer). have heard of be aware of the
existence of. Hear! Hear! Int. Expressing agreement. Hear a person out listen to
all a person says. Will not hear of will not allow. hearer n. [old english]
Hearing-aid n. Small device to amplify sound, worn by a partially deaf person.
Hearken v. Archaic (often foll. By to) listen. [old english: related to *hark]
Hearse n. Vehicle for conveying the coffin at a funeral. [french herse harrow,
from latin hirpex large rake]
Heart-lung machine n. Machine that temporarily takes over the functions of the
heart and lungs.
Heartthrob n. Colloq. Person for whom one has (esp. Immature) romantic
feelings.
Hearty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 strong, vigorous. 2 (of a meal or appetite) large. 3
warm, friendly. heartiness n.
Heat —n. 1 condition of being hot. 2 physics form of energy arising from the
motion of bodies’ molecules. 3 hot weather. 4 warmth of feeling; anger or
excitement. 5 (foll. By of) most intense part or period of activity (heat of battle).
6 (usu. Preliminary or trial) round in a race etc. —v. 1 make or become hot or
warm. 2 inflame. on heat (of mammals, esp. Females) sexually receptive. [old
english]
Heath n. 1 area of flattish uncultivated land with low shrubs. 2 plant growing on
a heath, esp. Heather. [old english]
Heather n. Any of various shrubs growing esp. On moors and heaths. [origin
unknown]
Heave —v. (-ving; past and past part. Heaved or esp. Naut. Hove) 1 lift or haul
with great effort. 2 utter with effort (heaved a sigh). 3 colloq. Throw. 4 rise and
fall rhythmically or spasmodically. 5 naut. Haul by rope. 6 retch. —n. Heaving.
heave in sight come into view. Heave to esp. Naut. Bring or be brought to a
standstill. [old english]
Heaven n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of god and the angels,
and of the blessed after death. 2 place or state of supreme bliss. 3 colloq.
Delightful thing. 4 (usu. Heaven) god, providence (often as an exclamation or
mild oath: heavens). 5 (the heavens) esp. Poet. The sky as seen from the earth, in
which the sun, moon, and stars appear. heavenward adv. (also heavenwards).
[old english]
Heavier-than-air attrib. Adj. (of an aircraft) weighing more than the air it
displaces.
Heavy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of great or unusually high weight; difficult to lift. 2 of
great density (heavy metal). 3 abundant, considerable (heavy crop; heavy
traffic). 4 severe, intense, extensive (heavy fighting; a heavy sleep). 5 doing a
thing to excess (heavy drinker). 6 striking or falling with force; causing strong
impact (heavy blows; heavy rain; heavy sea; a heavy fall). 7 (of machinery,
artillery, etc.) Very large of its kind; large in calibre etc. 8 needing much
physical effort (heavy work). 9 carrying heavy weapons (the heavy brigade). 10
serious or sombre in tone or attitude; dull, tedious. 11 a hard to digest. B hard to
read or understand. 12 (of bread etc.) Too dense from not having risen. 13 (of
ground) difficult to traverse or work. 14 oppressive; hard to endure (heavy
demands). 15 a coarse, ungraceful (heavy features). B unwieldy. —n. (pl. -ies) 1
colloq. Large violent person; thug (esp. Hired). 2 villainous or tragic role or
actor. 3 (usu. In pl.) Colloq. Serious newspaper. 4 anything large or heavy of its
kind, e.g. A vehicle. —adv. Heavily (esp. In comb.: heavy-laden).
Heavy metal n. 1 heavy guns. 2 metal of high density. 3 colloq. Loud kind of
rock music with a pounding rhythm.
Hebdomadal adj. Formal weekly, esp. Meeting weekly. [greek hepta seven]
Hebe n. Evergreen flowering shrub from new zealand. [greek goddess hebe]
Heckle —v. (-ling) interrupt and harass (a public speaker). —n. Act of heckling.
heckler n. [var. Of *hackle]
Hectare n. Metric unit of square measure, 100 ares (2.471 acres or 10,000 square
metres). [french: related to hecto-, are2]
Hectic adj. 1 busy and confused; excited. 2 feverish. hectically adv. [greek
hektikos habitual]
Hector —v. Bully, intimidate. —n. Bully. [from the name hector in the iliad]
Heed —v. Attend to; take notice of. —n. Careful attention. heedful adj. Heedless
adj. Heedlessly adv. [old english]
Heel1 —n. 1 back of the foot below the ankle. 2 a part of a sock etc. Covering
this. B part of a shoe etc. Supporting this. 3 thing like a heel in form or position.
4 crust end of a loaf of bread. 5 colloq. Scoundrel. 6 (as int.) Command to a dog
to walk close to its owner’s heel. —v. 1 fit or renew a heel on (a shoe etc.). 2
touch the ground with the heel as in dancing. 3 (foll. By out) rugby pass the ball
with the heel. at heel 1 (of a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under
control. At (or on) the heels of following closely after (a person or event). Cool
(or kick) one’s heels be kept waiting. Down at heel 1 (of a shoe) with the heel
worn down. 2 (of a person) shabby. Take to one’s heels run away. To heel 1 (of
a dog) close behind. 2 (of a person etc.) Under control. Turn on one’s heel turn
sharply round. [old english]
Heel2 —v. (often foll. By over) 1 (of a ship etc.) Lean over. 2 cause (a ship etc.)
To do this. —n. Act or amount of heeling. [obsolete heeld, from germanic]
Hefty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person) big and strong. 2 (of a thing) large, heavy,
powerful. heftily adv. Heftiness n. [heft weight: related to *heave]
Hegemony n. Leadership, esp. By one state of a confederacy. [greek hegemon
leader]
Hegira n. (also hejira) 1 muhammad’s flight from mecca in ad 622. 2 muslim era
reckoned from this date. [arabic hijra departure]
Heifer n. Young cow, esp. One that has not had more than one calf. [old english]
Height n. 1 measurement from base to top or head to foot. 2 elevation above the
ground or a recognized level. 3 considerable elevation (situated at a height). 4
high place or area. 5 top. 6 a most intense part or period (battle was at its height).
B extreme example (the height of fashion). [old english]
Heir n. (fem. Heiress) person entitled to property or rank as the legal successor
of its former holder. [latin heres hered-]
Heir apparent n. Heir whose claim cannot be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Heirloom n. 1 piece of personal property that has been in a family for several
generations. 2 piece of property as part of an inheritance.
Heir presumptive n. Heir whose claim may be set aside by the birth of another
heir.
Hele v. (-ling) (also heel) (foll. By in) set (a plant) in the ground temporarily and
cover its roots. [old english]
Heliocentric adj. 1 regarding the sun as centre. 2 considered as viewed from the
sun’s centre.
Heliograph —n. 1 signalling apparatus reflecting sunlight in flashes. 2 message
sent by means of this. —v. Send (a message) by heliograph.
Heliotrope n. Plant with fragrant purple flowers. [greek: related to *helio-, trepo
turn]
Helix n. (pl. Helices) spiral curve (like a corkscrew) or coiled curve (like a watch
spring). [latin from greek]
Hell —n. 1 place regarded in some religions as the abode of the dead, or of
devils and condemned sinners. 2 place or state of misery or wickedness. —int.
Expressing anger, surprise, etc. the hell (usu. Prec. By what, where, who, etc.)
Expressing anger, disbelief, etc. (who the hell is this?; the hell you are!). Beat
etc. The hell out of colloq. Beat etc. Without restraint.
Hellebore n. Evergreen plant with usu. White, purple, or green flowers, e.g. The
christmas rose. [greek (h)elleborus]
Hellenistic adj. Of greek history, language, and culture of the late 4th to the late
1st c. Bc.
Helm n. Tiller or wheel for controlling a ship’s rudder. at the helm in control; at
the head of an organization etc. [old english]
Helot n. Serf, esp. (helot) of a class in ancient sparta. [latin from greek]
Help —v. 1 provide with the means towards what is needed or sought (helped
me with my work; helped me (to) pay my debts; helped him on with his coat). 2
(often absol.) Be of use or service to (does that help?). 3 contribute to alleviating
(a pain or difficulty). 4 prevent or remedy (it can’t be helped). 5 (usu. With neg.)
A refrain from (can’t help it; could not help laughing). B refl. Refrain from
acting (couldn’t help himself). 6 (often foll. By to) serve (a person with food). —
n. 1 helping or being helped (need your help; came to our help). 2 person or
thing that helps. 3 colloq. Domestic assistant or assistance. 4 remedy or escape
(there is no help for it). help oneself (often foll. By to) 1 serve oneself (with food
etc.). 2 take without permission. Help a person out give a person help, esp. In
difficulty. helper n. [old english]
Helter-skelter —adv. & adj. In disorderly haste. —n. (at a fairground) external
spiral slide round a tower. [imitative]
Hem1 —n. Border of cloth where the edge is turned under and sewn down. —v.
(-mm-) turn down and sew in the edge of (cloth etc.). hem in confine; restrict the
movement of. [old english]
Hemipterous adj. Of the insect order including aphids, bugs, and cicadas, with
piercing or sucking mouthparts. [greek pteron wing]
Hemisphere n. 1 half a sphere. 2 half of the earth, esp. As divided by the equator
(into northern and southern hemisphere) or by a line passing through the poles
(into eastern and western hemisphere). hemispherical adj. [greek: related to
hemi-, sphere]
Hemlock n. 1 poisonous plant with fernlike leaves and small white flowers. 2
poison made from this. [old english]
Hemophilia n. (brit. Haem-) hereditary failure of the blood to clot normally with
the tendency to bleed severely from even a slight injury. [greek haima blood,
philia loving]
Hemorrhage (brit. Haem-) —n. 1 profuse loss of blood from a ruptured blood-
vessel. 2 damaging loss, esp. Of people or assets. —v. (-ging) suffer a
haemorrhage. [greek haima blood, rhegnumi burst]
Hemorrhoids n.pl. (brit. Haem-) swollen veins in the wall of the anus; piles.
[greek haima blood, -rhoos -flowing]
Hemp n. 1 (in full indian hemp) asian herbaceous plant. 2 its fibre used to make
rope and stout fabrics. 3 narcotic drug made from the hemp plant. [old english]
Hence adv. 1 from this time (two years hence). 2 for this reason (hence we seem
to be wrong). 3 archaic from here. [old english]
Henchman n. Usu. Derog. Trusted supporter. [old english hengst horse, *man]
Henchman n. Usu. Derog. Trusted supporter. [old english hengst horse, *man]
Henna —n. 1 tropical shrub. 2 reddish dye made from it and used to colour hair.
—v. (hennaed, hennaing) dye with henna. [arabic]
Heptagon n. Plane figure with seven sides and angles. heptagonal adj. [greek:
Heptagon n. Plane figure with seven sides and angles. heptagonal adj. [greek:
related to *hepta-, -gonos angled]
Her —pron. 1 objective case of she (i like her). 2 colloq. She (it’s her all right;
am older than her). —poss. Pron. (attrib.) Of or belonging to her or herself (her
house; her own business). [old english dative and genitive of she]
Herbal —adj. Of herbs in medicinal and culinary use. —n. Book describing the
medicinal and culinary uses of herbs.
Herbivore n. Animal that feeds on plants. herbivorous adj. [latin voro devour]
Herculean adj. Having or requiring great strength or effort. [from the name
hercules, latin alteration of greek herakles]
Hereafter —adv. From now on; in the future. —n. 1 the future. 2 life after death.
Hereditary adj. 1 (of a disease, instinct, etc.) Able to be passed down genetically
from one generation to another. 2 a descending by inheritance. B holding a
position by inheritance. [latin: related to *heir]
Heredity n. 1 a passing on of physical or mental characteristics genetically. B
these characteristics. 2 genetic constitution.
Hereford n. Animal of a breed of red and white beef cattle. [hereford in england]
Hereinafter adv. Esp. Law formal 1 from this point on. 2 in a later part of this
document etc.
Heresy n. (pl. -ies) 1 esp. Rc ch. Religious belief or practice contrary to orthodox
doctrine. 2 opinion contrary to what is normally accepted or maintained. [greek
hairesis choice]
Hermaphrodite —n. Person, animal, or plant having both male and female
reproductive organs. —adj. Combining both sexes. hermaphroditic adj. [from
hermaphroditus, son of hermes and aphrodite who became joined in one body to
a nymph]
Hermetic adj. With an airtight closure. hermetically adv. [from the greek god
hermes, regarded as the founder of alchemy]
Hernia n. Protrusion of part of an organ through the wall of the body cavity
containing it. [latin]
Hero n. (pl. -es) 1 person noted or admired for nobility, courage, outstanding
achievements, etc. 2 chief male character in a play, story, etc. [greek heros]
Heroic —adj. Of, fit for, or like a hero; very brave. —n. (in pl.) 1 high-flown
language or sentiments. 2 unduly bold behaviour. heroically adv.
Heron n. Long-legged wading bird with a long sshaped neck. [french from
germanic]
Herr n. (pl. Herren) 1 title of a german man; mr. 2 german man. [german]
Herring n. (pl. Same or -s) n. Atlantic fish used as food. [old english]
Hers poss. Pron. The one or ones belonging to or associated with her (it is hers;
hers are over there). of hers of or belonging to her (friend of hers).
Herself pron. 1 a emphat. Form of *she or her (she herself will do it). B refl.
Form of her (she has hurt herself). 2 in her normal state of body or mind (does
not feel quite herself today). be herself see oneself. By herself see by oneself.
[old english: related to her, *self]
Hertz n. (pl. Same) si unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second. [hertz,
name of a physicist]
Heterodox adj. Not orthodox. heterodoxy n. [from *hetero-, greek doxa opinion]
Heterodyne adj. Radio relating to the production of a lower frequency from the
combination of two almost equal high frequencies. [from *hetero-, greek
dunamis force]
Het up predic. Adj. Colloq. Excited, overwrought. [het, a dial. Word = heated]
Het up predic. Adj. Colloq. Excited, overwrought. [het, a dial. Word = heated]
Hew v. (past part. Hewn or hewed) 1 chop or cut with an axe, sword, etc. 2 cut
into shape. [old english]
Hexagon n. Plane figure with six sides and angles. hexagonal adj. [greek: related
to *hexa-, -gonos angled]
Hey int. Calling attention or expressing joy, surprise, inquiry, etc. [imitative]
Heyday n. Time of greatest success or prosperity. [low german]
Hezbollah n. (also hiz-) extreme shiite muslim group, active esp. In lebanon.
[arabic hisbullah party of god]
Hf symb. Hafnium.
Hg symb. Mercury.
Hg abbr. Hectogram(s).
Hiatus n. (pl. -tuses) 1 break or gap in a series or sequence. 2 break between two
Hiatus n. (pl. -tuses) 1 break or gap in a series or sequence. 2 break between two
vowels coming together but not in the same syllable, as in though oft the ear.
[latin hio gape]
Hibernian archaic poet. —adj. Of ireland. —n. Native of ireland. [latin hibernia
ireland]
Hickory n. (pl. -ies) 1 n. American tree yielding wood and nutlike edible fruits. 2
the tough heavy wood of this. [virginian pohickery]
Hide1 —v. (-ding; past hid; past part. Hidden) 1 put or keep out of sight. 2
conceal oneself. 3 (usu. Foll. By from) keep (a fact) secret. 4 conceal. —n.
Camouflaged shelter used for observing wildlife. hider n. [old english]
Hide2 n. 1 animal’s skin, esp. When tanned or dressed. 2 colloq. The human
skin, esp. The backside. [old english]
Hide-and-seek n. Game in which players hide and another searches for them.
Hideous adj. 1 very ugly, revolting. 2 colloq. Unpleasant. hideosity n. (pl. -ies).
Hideously adv. [anglo-french hidous]
Hiding2 n. 1 act of hiding. 2 state of remaining hidden (go into hiding). [from
*hide1]
Hierarchy n. (pl. -ies) system of grades of status or authority ranked one above
the other. hierarchical adj. [greek hieros sacred, arkho rule]
Hi-fi colloq. —adj. Of high fidelity. —n. (pl. -s) set of high-fidelity equipment.
[abbreviation]
High —adj. 1 a of great vertical extent (high building). B (predic.; often in
comb.) Of a specified height (one inch high; waist-high). 2 a far above ground or
sea level etc. (high altitude). B inland, esp. When raised (high asia).
Highball n. Us drink of spirits and soda etc., served with ice in a tall glass.
High chair n. Infant’s chair with long legs and a tray for meals.
High colour n. Flushed complexion.
High court n. (also in england high court of justice) supreme court of justice for
civil cases.
Higher animal n. (also higher plant) animal or plant evolved to a high degree.
High gear n. Gear such that the driven end of a transmission revolves faster than
the driving end.
High jump n. 1 athletic event consisting of jumping over a high bar. 2 colloq.
Drastic punishment (he’s for the high jump).
Highland —n. (usu. In pl.) 1 area of high land. 2 (the highlands) mountainous
part of scotland. —adj. Of or in a highland or the highlands. highlander n. (also
highlander). [old english, = promontory: related to *high]
Highness n. 1 state of being high (highness of taxation). 2 (highness) title used
when addressing or referring to a prince or princess (her highness; your royal
highness).
High priest n. (fem. High priestess) 1 chief priest, esp. Jewish. 2 head of a cult.
High-rise —attrib. Adj. (of a building) having many storeys. —n. Such a
building.
High sea n. (also high seas) open seas not under any country’s jurisdiction.
High tea n. Evening meal usu. Consisting of a cooked dish, bread and butter, tea,
etc.
High time n. Time that is overdue (it is high time they arrived).
Highway n. 1 a public road. B main route. 2 direct course of action (on the
highway to success).
Hike —n. 1 long walk, esp. In the country for pleasure. 2 rise in prices etc. —v.
(-king) 1 go for a hike. 2 walk laboriously. 3 (usu. Foll. By up) hitch up (clothing
etc.); become hitched up. 4 (usu. Foll. By up) raise (prices etc.). hiker n. [origin
unknown]
Hill n. 1 naturally raised area of land, lower than a mountain. 2 (often in comb.)
Heap, mound (anthill). 3 sloping piece of road. over the hill colloq. Past the
prime of life. [old english]
Hilt n. Handle of a sword, dagger, etc. up to the hilt completely. [old english]
Him pron. 1 objective case of he (i saw him). 2 colloq. He (it’s him again; taller
than him). [old english, dative of he]
Himself pron. 1 a emphat. Form of *he or him (he himself will do it). B refl.
Form of him (he has hurt himself). 2 in his normal state of body or mind (does
not feel quite himself today). be himself see oneself. By himself see by oneself.
[old english: related to him, *self]
Hind1 adj. At the back (hind leg). [old english hindan from behind]
Hind1 adj. At the back (hind leg). [old english hindan from behind]
Hind2 n. Female (esp. Red) deer, esp. In and after the third year. [old english]
Hindu —n. (pl. -s) follower of hinduism. —adj. Of hindus or hinduism. [urdu
hind india]
Hinduism n. Main religious and social system of india, including the belief in
Hinduism n. Main religious and social system of india, including the belief in
reincarnation, several gods, and a caste system.
Hinge —n. 1 movable joint on which a door, lid, etc., turns or swings. 2
principle on which all depends. —v. (-ging) 1 (foll. By on) depend (on a
principle, an event, etc.). 2 attach or be attached by a hinge. [related to *hang]
Hinny n. (pl. -ies) offspring of a female donkey and a male horse. [greek hinnos]
Hip1 n. Projection of the pelvis and the upper part of the thigh-bone. [old
english]
Hip3 int. Introducing a united cheer (hip, hip, hooray). [origin unknown]
Hip3 int. Introducing a united cheer (hip, hip, hooray). [origin unknown]
Hip4 adj. (also hep) (-pper, -ppest) slang trendy, stylish. [origin unknown]
Hip hop n. (also hip-hop) subculture combining rap music, graffiti art, and
break-dancing. [from *hip4]
Hippie n. (also hippy) (pl. -ies) colloq. (esp. In the 1960s) person rejecting
convention, typically with long hair, jeans, beads, etc., and taking hallucinogenic
drugs. [from *hip4]
Hippopotamus n. (pl. -muses or -mi) large african mammal with short legs and
thick skin, living by rivers, lakes, etc. [greek hippos horse, potamos river]
Hipster1 —attrib. Adj. (of a garment) hanging from the hips rather than the
waist. —n. (in pl.) Such trousers.
Hire —v. (-ring) 1 purchase the temporary use of (a thing) (hired a van). 2 esp.
Us employ (a person). —n. 1 hiring or being hired. 2 payment for this. for (or
on) hire ready to be hired. Hire out grant the temporary use of (a thing) for
payment. hireable adj. Hirer n. [old english]
Hire purchase n. System of purchase by paying in instalments.
His poss. Pron. 1 (attrib.) Of or belonging to him or himself (his house; his own
business). 2 the one or ones belonging to or associated with him (it is his; his are
over there). of his of or belonging to him (friend of his). [old english, genitive of
*he]
Hispanic —adj. 1 of spain or spain and portugal. 2 of spain and other spanish-
speaking countries. —n. Spanish-speaking person living in the us. [latin hispania
spain]
Hiss —v. 1 make a sharp sibilant sound, as of the letter s. 2 express disapproval
of by hisses. 3 whisper urgently or angrily. —n. 1 sharp sibilant sound as of the
letter s. 2 electronics interference at audio frequencies. [imitative]
History n. (pl. -ies) 1 continuous record of (esp. Public) events. 2 a the study of
past events, esp. Human affairs. B total accumulation of past events, esp.
Relating to human affairs or a particular nation, person, thing, etc. 3 eventful
past (this house has a history). 4 (foll. By of) past record (had a history of
illness). 5 a systematic or critical account of or research into past events etc. B
similar record or account of natural phenomena. 6 historical play. make history
do something memorable. [greek historia inquiry]
Histrionic —adj. (of behaviour) theatrical, dramatic. —n. (in pl.) Insincere and
dramatic behaviour designed to impress. [latin histrio actor]
Hit —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Hit) 1 a strike with a blow or missile. B (of a
moving body) strike with force (the plane hit the ground). C reach (a target etc.)
With a directed missile (hit the wicket). 2 cause to suffer; affect adversely. 3
(often foll. By at, against) direct a blow. 4 (often foll. By against, on) knock (a
part of the body) (hit his head). 5 achieve, reach (hit the right tone; can’t hit the
high notes). 6 colloq. A encounter (hit a snag). B arrive at (hit town). C indulge
heavily in, esp. Liquor etc. (hit the bottle). 7 esp. Us slang rob or kill. 8 occur
forcefully to (it only hit him later). 9 a propel (a ball etc.) With a bat etc. To
score runs or points. B score in this way (hit a six). —n. 1 a blow, stroke. B
collision. 2 shot etc. That hits its target. 3 colloq. Popular success. hit back
retaliate. Hit below the belt 1 esp.
Hit-and-run attrib. Adj. 1 (of a driver, raider, etc.) Causing damage or injury and
leaving the scene immediately. 2 (of an accident, attack, etc.) Perpetrated by
such a person or people.
Hitch —v. 1 fasten or be fastened with a loop, hook, etc.; tether. 2 move (a
thing) slightly or with a jerk. 3 colloq. A = *hitchhike. B obtain (a lift) by
hitchhiking. —n. 1 temporary obstacle or snag. 2 abrupt pull or push. 3 noose or
knot of various kinds. 4 colloq. Free ride in a vehicle. get hitched colloq. Marry.
Hitch up lift (esp. Clothing) with a jerk. [origin uncertain]
Hittite —n. Member or language of an ancient people of asia minor and syria. —
adj. Of the hittites. [hebrew]
Hiv abbr. Human immunodeficiency virus, either of two viruses causing aids.
Hive n. Beehive. hive off (-ving) separate from a larger group. [old english]
Ho symb. Holmium.
Hoard —n. Stock or store (esp. Of money or food). —v. Amass and store.
hoarder n. [old english]
Hoarse adj. 1 (of the voice) rough and deep; husky, croaking. 2 having such a
voice. hoarsely adv. Hoarseness n. [old norse]
Hoary adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a (of hair) grey or white with age. B having such hair;
aged. 2 old and trite (hoary joke). [old english]
Hobble —v. (-ling) 1 walk lamely; limp. 2 tie together the legs of (a horse etc.)
To prevent it from straying. —n. 1 uneven or infirm gait. 2 rope etc. For
hobbling a horse etc. [probably low german]
Hobby n. (pl. -ies) leisure-time activity pursued for pleasure. [from the name
robin]
Hobnob v. (-bb-) (usu. Foll. By with) mix socially or informally. [hab nab have
or not have]
Hobson’s choice n. Choice of taking the thing offered or nothing. [hobson, name
of a carrier who let out horses thus]
Hock1 n. Joint of a quadruped’s hind leg between the knee and the fetlock. [old
english]
Hockey n. Team game with hooked sticks and a small hard ball. [origin
unknown]
Hod n. 1 v-shaped trough on a pole used for carrying bricks etc. 2 portable
receptacle for coal. [french hotte pannier]
Hoe —n. Long-handled tool with a blade, used for weeding etc. —v. (hoes,
hoed, hoeing) weed (crops); loosen (earth); dig up with a hoe. [french from
germanic]
Hog —n. 1 castrated male pig. 2 colloq. Greedy person. —v. (-gg-) colloq. Take
greedily; hoard selfishly; monopolize. go the whole hog colloq. Do something
completely or thoroughly. hoggish adj. [old english]
Hoick v. Colloq. (often foll. By out) lift or pull, esp. With a jerk. [perhaps var.
Of *hike]
Hoi polloi n. The masses; the common people. [greek, = the many]
Usage this phrase is often preceded by the, which is, strictly speaking,
unnecessary, since hoi means ‘the’.
Hoist —v. 1 raise or haul up. 2 raise by means of ropes and pulleys etc. —n. 1
act of hoisting, lift. 2 apparatus for hoisting. hoist with one’s own petard caught
by one’s own trick etc. [earlier hoise, probably from low german]
Hold1 —v. (past and past part. Held) 1 a keep fast; grasp (esp. In the hands or
arms). B (also refl.) Keep or sustain (a thing, oneself, one’s head, etc.) In a
particular position. C grip so as to control (hold the reins). 2 have the capacity
for, contain (holds two pints). 3 possess, gain, or have, esp.: a be the owner or
tenant of (land, property, stocks, etc.). B gain or have gained (a qualification,
record, etc.). C have the position of (a job or office). D keep possession of (a
place etc.), esp. Against attack. 4 remain unbroken; not give way (roof held
under the storm). 5 celebrate or conduct (a meeting, festival, conversation, etc.).
6 a keep (a person etc.) In a place or condition (held him in suspense). B detain,
esp. In custody. 7 a engross (book held him for hours). B dominate (held the
stage). 8 (foll. By to) keep (a person etc.) To (a promise etc.). 9 (of weather)
continue fine. 10 think, believe; assert (held it to be plain; held that the earth was
flat). 11 regard with a specified feeling (held him in contempt). 12 cease; restrain
(hold your fire). 13 keep or reserve (please hold our seats). 14 be able to drink
(alcohol) without effect (can’t hold his drink). 15 (of a court etc.) Lay down;
decide. 16 mus. Sustain (a note). 17 = hold the line. —n. 1 (foll. By on, over)
influence or power over (has a strange hold over me). 2 manner of holding in
wrestling etc. 3 grasp (take hold of him). 4 (often in comb.) Thing to hold by
(seized the handhold). hold (a thing) against (a person) resent or regard it as
discreditable to (a person). Hold back 1 impede the progress of; restrain. 2 keep
for oneself. 3 (often foll. By from) hesitate; refrain. Hold one’s breath see
breath. Hold down 1 repress. 2 colloq. Be competent enough to keep (one’s job
etc.). Hold the fort 1 act as a temporary substitute. 2 cope in an emergency.
Hold forth speak at length or tediously. Hold one’s ground see ground1. Hold
hands grasp one another by the hand as a sign of affection or for support or
guidance. Hold it cease action or movement. Hold the line not ring off (in a
telephone connection).
Hold2 n. Cavity in the lower part of a ship or aircraft for cargo. [old english:
related to *hollow]
Holiday —n. 1 (often in pl.) Extended period of recreation, esp. Spent away
from home or travelling; break from work. 2 day of festivity or recreation when
no work is done, esp. A religious festival etc. —v. Spend a holiday. [old english:
related to *holy, *day]
Holism n. (also wholism) 1 philos. Theory that certain wholes are greater than
the sum of their parts. 2 med. Treating of the whole person rather than the
symptoms of a disease. holistic adj. [greek holos whole]
Hollow —adj. 1 a having a cavity; not solid. B sunken (hollow cheeks). 2 (of a
sound) echoing. 3 empty; hungry. 4 meaningless (hollow victory). 5 insincere
(hollow laugh). —n. 1 hollow place; hole. 2 valley; basin. —v. (often foll. By
out) make hollow; excavate. —adv. Colloq. Completely (beaten hollow).
hollowly adv. Hollowness n. [old english]
Holly n. (pl. -ies) evergreen shrub with prickly leaves and red berries. [old
english]
Hollyhock n. Tall plant with showy flowers. [from *holy, obsolete hock mallow]
Holm n. (in full holm-oak) evergreen oak with holly-like young leaves. [dial.
Holm holly]
Holograph —adj. Wholly written by hand by the person named as the author. —
n. Holograph document. [greek holos whole, *-graph]
Holster n. Leather case for a pistol or revolver, worn on a belt etc. [dutch]
Holy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 morally and spiritually excellent or perfect, and to be
revered. 2 belonging to or devoted to god. 3 consecrated, sacred. [old english:
related to *whole]
Holy land n. Area between the river jordan and the mediterranean sea.
Holy of holies n. 1 sacred inner chamber of the jewish temple. 2 thing regarded
as most sacred.
Homage n. Tribute, expression of reverence (pay homage to). [latin homo man]
Homburg n. Man’s felt hat with a narrow curled brim and a lengthwise dent in
the crown. [homburg in germany]
Home farm n. Principal farm on an estate, providing produce for the owner.
Home farm n. Principal farm on an estate, providing produce for the owner.
Home guard n. Hist. British citizen army organized for defence in 1940.
Home help n. Person helping with housework etc., esp. One provided by a local
authority.
Home office n. British government department dealing with law and order,
immigration, etc., in england and wales.
Homeric adj. 1 of, or in the style of, homer. 2 of bronze age greece as described
in homer’s poems.
Homespun —adj. 1 made of yarn spun at home. 2 plain, simple. —n. Homespun
cloth.
Homing attrib. Adj. 1 (of a pigeon) trained to fly home. 2 (of a device) for
guiding to a target etc.
Hominid —adj. Of the primate family including humans and their fossil
ancestors. —n. Member of this family. [latin homo homin-man]
Homograph n. Word spelt like another but of different meaning or origin (e.g.
pole1, pole2).
Hone —n. Whetstone, esp. For razors. —v. (-ning) sharpen on or as on a hone.
[old english]
Honest —adj. 1 fair and just; not cheating or stealing. 2 free of deceit and
untruthfulness; sincere. 3 fairly earned (an honest living). 4 blameless but
undistinguished. —adv. Colloq. Genuinely, really. [latin honestus]
Honey n. (pl. -s) 1 sweet sticky yellowish fluid made by bees from nectar. 2
colour of this. 3 a sweetness. B sweet thing. 4 esp. Us (usu. As a form of
address) darling. [old english]
address) darling. [old english]
Honeycomb —n. 1 bees’ wax structure of hexagonal cells for honey and eggs. 2
pattern arranged hexagonally. —v. 1 fill with cavities or tunnels, undermine. 2
mark with a honeycomb pattern. [old english]
Honk —n. 1 sound of a car horn. 2 cry of a wild goose. —v. (cause to) make a
honk. [imitative]
Honor (brit. Honour) —n. 1 high respect, public regard. 2 adherence to what is
right or an accepted standard of conduct. 3 nobleness of mind, magnanimity
(honour among thieves). 4 thing conferred as a distinction, esp. An official
award for bravery or achievement. 5 privilege, special right (had the honour of
being invited). 6 a exalted position. B (honour) (prec. By your, his, etc.) Title of
a circuit judge etc. 7 (foll. By to) person or thing that brings honour (an honour
to her profession). 8 a chastity (of a woman). B reputation for this. 9 (in pl.)
Specialized degree course or special distinction in an examination. 10 (in card-
games) the four or five highest-ranking cards. 11 golf the right of driving off
first. —v. 1 respect highly.
Honour (us honor) —n. 1 high respect, public regard. 2 adherence to what is
right or an accepted standard of conduct. 3 nobleness of mind, magnanimity
(honour among thieves). 4 thing conferred as a distinction, esp. An official
award for bravery or achievement. 5 privilege, special right (had the honour of
being invited). 6 a exalted position. B (honour) (prec. By your, his, etc.) Title of
a circuit judge etc. 7 (foll. By to) person or thing that brings honour (an honour
to her profession). 8 a chastity (of a woman). B reputation for this. 9 (in pl.)
Specialized degree course or special distinction in an examination. 10 (in card-
games) the four or five highest-ranking cards. 11 golf the right of driving off
first. —v. 1 respect highly. 2 confer honour on. 3 accept or pay (a bill or cheque)
when due. do the honours perform the duties of a host to guests etc. In honour of
as a celebration of. On one’s honour (usu. Foll. By to + infin.) Under a moral
obligation. [latin honor repute]
Hood1 —n. 1 a covering for the head and neck, esp. As part of a garment. B
separate hoodlike garment. 2 folding top of a car etc. 3 us bonnet of a car etc. 4
protective cover. —v. Cover with or as with a hood. [old english]
Hooded adj. 1 having a hood. 2 (of an animal) having a hoodlike part (hooded
crow).
Hoodoo n. Esp. Us 1 a bad luck. B thing or person that brings this. 2 voodoo.
[alteration of *voodoo]
Hoof n. (pl. -s or hooves) horny part of the foot of a horse etc. hoof it slang go
on foot. [old english]
Hook —n. 1 a bent or curved piece of metal etc. For catching hold or for
hanging things on. B (in full fish-hook) bent piece of wire for catching fish. 2
curved cutting instrument (reaping-hook). 3 bend in a river, curved strip of land,
etc. 4 a hooking stroke. B boxing short swinging blow. —v. 1 grasp or secure
with hook(s). 2 catch with or as with a hook. 3 slang steal. 4 (in sports) send (the
ball) in a curve or deviating path. 5 rugby secure (the ball) and pass it backward
with the foot in the scrum. by hook or by crook by one means or another. Off the
hook 1 colloq. Out of difficulty or trouble. 2 (of a telephone receiver) not on its
rest. [old english]
Hookah n. Oriental tobacco-pipe with a long tube passing through water for
cooling the smoke as it is drawn through. [urdu from arabic, = casket]
Hook and eye n. Small metal hook and loop as a fastener on a garment.
Hooker n. 1 rugby player in the front row of the scrum who tries to hook the
ball. 2 slang prostitute.
Hoop —n. 1 circular band of metal, wood, etc., esp. As part of a framework. 2
ring bowled along by a child, or for circus performers to jump through. 3 arch
through which balls are hit in croquet. —v. Bind or encircle with hoop(s). be put
(or go) through the hoop (or hoops) undergo rigorous testing. [old english]
Hoopoe n. Salmon-pink bird with black and white wings and a large erectile
crest. [latin upupa (imitative of its cry)]
Hoot —n. 1 owl’s cry. 2 sound made by a car’s horn etc. 3 shout expressing
scorn or disapproval. 4 colloq. A laughter. B cause of this. 5 (also two hoots)
slang anything at all, in the slightest degree (don’t care a hoot; doesn’t matter
two hoots). —v. 1 utter or make hoot(s). 2 greet or drive away with scornful
hoots. 3 sound (a car horn etc.). [imitative]
Hooter n. 1 thing that hoots, esp. A car’s horn or a siren. 2 slang nose.
Hoover —n. Propr. Vacuum cleaner. —v. (hoover) 1 (also absol.) Clean with a
vacuum cleaner. 2 (foll. By up) a suck up with a vacuum cleaner. B clean a room
etc. With a vacuum cleaner. [name of the manufacturer]
Hop1 —v. (-pp-) 1 (of a bird, frog, etc.) Spring with two or all feet at once. 2 (of
a person) jump on one foot. 3 move or go quickly (hopped over the fence). 4
cross (a ditch etc.) By hopping. —n. 1 hopping movement. 2 colloq. Informal
dance. 3 short journey, esp. A flight. hop in (or out) colloq. Get into (or out of) a
car etc. Hop it slang go away. On the hop colloq. Unprepared (caught on the
hop). [old english]
Hop2 n. 1 climbing plant bearing cones. 2 (in pl.) Its ripe cones, used to flavour
Hop2 n. 1 climbing plant bearing cones. 2 (in pl.) Its ripe cones, used to flavour
beer. [low german or dutch]
Hope —n. 1 expectation and desire for a thing. 2 person or thing giving cause
for hope. 3 what is hoped for. —v. (-ping) 1 feel hope. 2 expect and desire. 3 feel
fairly confident. hope against hope cling to a mere possibility. [old english]
Hopper2 n. Hop-picker.
Hopscotch n. Children’s game of hopping over squares marked on the ground to
retrieve a stone etc. [from hop1, scotch]
Horizon n. 1 line at which the earth and sky appear to meet. 2 limit of mental
perception, experience, interest, etc. on the horizon (of an event) just imminent
or becoming apparent. [greek horizo bound]
Horizontal —adj. 1 parallel to the plane of the horizon, at right angles to the
vertical. 2 of or concerned with the same work, status, etc. (it was a horizontal
move rather than promotion). —n. Horizontal line, plane, etc. horizontality n.
Horizontally adv.
Horn n. 1 a hard outgrowth, often curved and pointed, on the head of esp.
Hoofed animals. B each of two branched appendages on the head of (esp. Male)
deer. C hornlike projection on animals, e.g. A snail’s tentacle. 2 substance of
which horns are made. 3 mus. A = *french horn. B wind instrument played by
lip vibration, orig. Made of horn, now usu. Of brass. 4 instrument sounding a
warning. 5 receptacle or instrument made of horn. 6 horn-shaped projection. 7
extremity of the moon or other crescent. 8 arm of a river etc. horn in slang
intrude, interfere. horned adj. Hornist n. (in sense 3 of n.). [old english]
Hornet n. Large wasp capable of inflicting a serious sting. [low german or dutch]
Hornpipe n. 1 lively dance (esp. Associated with sailors). 2 music for this.
Horny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like horn. 2 hard like horn. 3 slang sexually
excited. horniness n.
Horror —n. 1 painful feeling of loathing and fear. 2 a (often foll. By of) intense
dislike. B (often foll. By at) colloq. Intense dismay. 3 a person or thing causing
horror. B colloq. Bad or mischievous person etc. 4 (in pl.; prec. By the) fit of
depression, nervousness, etc. —attrib. Adj. (of films etc.) Designed to interest by
arousing feelings of horror.
Hors d’œuvre n. Food served as an appetizer at the start of a meal. [french, =
outside the work]
Horse —n. 1 a large four-legged mammal with flowing mane and tail, used for
riding and to carry and pull loads. B adult male horse; stallion or gelding. C
(collect.; as sing.) Cavalry. 2 vaulting-block. 3 supporting frame (clothes-horse).
—v. (-sing) (foll. By around) fool about. from the horse’s mouth colloq. (of
information etc.) From the original or an authoritative source. [old english]
Horse chestnut n. 1 large tree with upright conical clusters of flowers. 2 dark
brown fruit of this.
Horsehair n. Hair from the mane or tail of a horse, used for padding etc.
Horsepower n. (pl. Same) imperial unit of power (about 750 watts), esp. For
measuring the power of an engine.
Horsewhip —n. Whip for driving horses. —v. (-pp-) beat with a horsewhip.
Horsy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like a horse. 2 concerned with or devoted to horses.
Hosanna n. & int. Shout of adoration (matt. 21:9, 15, etc.). [hebrew]
Hose —n. 1 (also hose-pipe) flexible tube for conveying water. 2 a (collect.; as
pl.) Stockings and socks. B hist. Breeches (doublet and hose). —v. (-sing) (often
foll. By down) water, spray, or drench with a hose. [old english]
Hospice n. 1 home for people who are ill (esp. Terminally) or destitute. 2
lodging for travellers, esp. One kept by a religious order. [latin: related to
*host2]
Host1 n. (usu. Foll. By of) large number of people or things. [latin hostis enemy,
army]
Host3 n. (usu. Prec. By the; often host) bread consecrated in the eucharist. [latin
hostia victim]
Hostility n. (pl. -ies) 1 being hostile, enmity. 2 state of warfare. 3 (in pl.) Acts of
warfare.
Hot-air balloon n. Balloon containing air heated by burners below it, causing it
to rise.
Hot cross bun n. Bun marked with a cross and traditionally eaten on good friday.
Hotelier n. Hotel-keeper.
Hot flush see *flush1.
Hotfoot —adv. In eager haste. —v. Hurry eagerly (esp. Hotfoot it).
Hot line n. Direct exclusive telephone etc. Line, esp. For emergencies.
Hotplate n. Heated metal plate etc. (or a set of these) for cooking food or
keeping it hot.
Hot rod n. Vehicle modified to have extra power and speed.
Hot spot n. 1 small region that is relatively hot. 2 lively or dangerous place.
Hot-water bottle n. (usu. Rubber) container filled with hot water to warm a bed.
Hound —n. 1 dog used in hunting. 2 colloq. Despicable man. —v. Harass or
pursue. [old english]
Hour n. 1 twenty-fourth part of a day and night, 60 minutes. 2 time of day, point
in time (a late hour; what is the hour?). 3 (in pl. With preceding numerals in
form 18.00, 20.30, etc.) This number of hours and minutes past midnight on the
24-hour clock (will assemble at 20.00 hours). 4 a period for a specific purpose
(lunch hour; keep regular hours). B (in pl.) Fixed working or open period (office
hours; opening hours). 5 short period of time (an idle hour).
Houri n. (pl. -s) beautiful young woman of the muslim paradise. [persian from
arabic, = dark-eyed]
House —n. (pl.) 1 building for human habitation. 2 building for a special
purpose or for animals or goods (opera-house; summerhouse; hen-house). 3 a
religious community. B its buildings. 4 a body of pupils living in the same
building at a boarding-school. B such a building. C division of a day-school for
games, competitions, etc. 5 royal family or dynasty (house of york). 6 a firm or
institution. B its premises. 7 a legislative or deliberative assembly. B building for
this. 8 audience or performance in a theatre etc. 9 astrol. Twelfth part of the
heavens. —v. (-sing) 1 provide with a house or other accommodation. 2 store
(goods etc.). 3 enclose or encase (a part or fitting). 4 fix in a socket, mortise, etc.
keep house provide for or manage a household. Like a house on fire 1
vigorously, fast. 2 successfully, excellently. On the house free. Put (or set) one’s
house in order make necessary reforms. [old english]
House music n. Style of pop music, typically using drum machines and
synthesized bass lines with sparse repetitive vocals and a fast beat.
House of keys n. (in the isle of man) elected chamber of the tynwald.
Housetop n. Roof of a house. shout etc. From the housetops announce publicly.
House-trained adj. 1 (of animals) trained to be clean in the house. 2 colloq. Well-
mannered.
Housewife n. 1 woman who manages a household and usu. Does not have a full-
time paid job. 2 case for needles, thread, etc. housewifely adj. [from house, wife
= woman]
Hover —v. 1 (of a bird etc.) Remain in one place in the air. 2 (often foll. By
about, round) wait close at hand, linger. —n. 1 hovering. 2 state of suspense.
[obsolete hove hover]
How —interrog. Adv. 1 by what means, in what way (how do you do it?; tell me
how you do it; how could you?). 2 in what condition, esp. Of health (how are
you?; how do things stand?). 3 a to what extent (how far is it?; how would you
like to take my place?; how we laughed!). B to what extent good or well, what
… like (how was the film?; how did they play?). —rel. Adv. In whatever way, as
(do it how you can). —conj. Colloq. That (told us how he’d been in india). how
about colloq. Would you like (how about a quick swim?). How do you do? A
formal greeting. How many what number. How much 1 what amount. 2 what
price. How’s that? 1 what is your opinion or explanation of that? 2 cricket (said
to an umpire) is the batsman out or not? [old english]
Howitzer n. Short gun for the high-angle firing of shells. [czech houfnice
catapult]
Howl —n. 1 long loud doleful cry of a dog etc. 2 prolonged wailing noise. 3
loud cry of pain, rage, derision, or laughter. —v. 1 make a howl. 2 weep loudly.
3 utter with a howl. howl down prevent (a speaker) from being heard by howls
of derision. [imitative]
Hq abbr. Headquarters.
Hub n. 1 central part of a wheel, rotating on or with the axle. 2 centre of interest,
activity, etc. [origin uncertain]
Huddle —v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By up) crowd together; nestle closely. 2 (often
foll. By up) curl one’s body into a small space. 3 heap together in a muddle. —n.
1 confused or crowded mass. 2 colloq. Close or secret conference (esp. In go
into a huddle). [perhaps from low german]
Huff —n. Colloq. Fit of petty annoyance. —v. 1 blow air, steam, etc. 2 (esp.
Huff and puff) bluster self-importantly but ineffectually. 3 draughts remove (an
opponent’s piece) as a forfeit. in a huff colloq. Annoyed and offended. [imitative
of blowing]
Huffy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 apt to take offence. 2 offended. huffily adv.
Huffiness n.
Hug —v. (-gg-) 1 squeeze tightly in one’s arms, esp. With affection. 2 (of a
bear) squeeze (a person) between its forelegs. 3 keep close to; fit tightly around.
—n. 1 strong clasp with the arms. 2 squeezing grip in wrestling. [probably
scandinavian]
scandinavian]
Huge adj. 1 extremely large; enormous. 2 (of an abstract thing) very great.
hugeness n. [french ahuge]
Hull2 —n. Outer covering of a fruit, esp. The pod of peas and beans, the husk of
grain, or the green calyx of a strawberry. —v. Remove the hulls from (fruit etc.).
[old english]
Hum —v. (-mm-) 1 make a low steady continuous sound like a bee. 2 sing with
closed lips. 3 utter a slight inarticulate sound. 4 colloq. Be active (really made
things hum). 5 colloq. Smell unpleasantly. —n. 1 humming sound. 2 colloq. Bad
smell. hum and haw (or ha) hesitate; be indecisive. [imitative]
Human chain n. Line of people formed for passing things along, as a protest, etc.
Humane adj. 1 benevolent, compassionate. 2 inflicting the minimum of pain. 3
(of learning) tending to civilize. humanely adv. Humaneness n.
Humanity n. (pl. -ies) 1 a the human race. B human beings collectively. C being
human. 2 humaneness, benevolence. 3 (in pl.) Subjects concerned with human
culture, e.g. Language, literature, and history.
Human rights n.pl. Rights held to be common to all.
Human shield n. Person(s) placed in the line of fire in order to discourage attack.
Humerus n. (pl. -ri) bone of the upper arm. humeral adj. [latin, = shoulder]
Humid adj. (of the air or climate) warm and damp. [latin humidus]
Hummingbird n. Small tropical bird that makes a humming sound with its wings
when it hovers.
Humoresque n. Short lively piece of music. [german humoreske]
Humpback n. 1 a deformed back with a hump. B person with this. 2 whale with a
dorsal fin forming a hump. humpbacked adj.
Hunch —v. Bend or arch into a hump. —n. 1 intuitive feeling or idea. 2 hump.
[origin unknown]
Hundred adj. & n. (pl. Hundreds or (in sense 1) hundred) (in sing., prec. By a or
one) 1 ten times ten. 2 symbol for this (100, c, c). 3 (in sing. Or pl.) Colloq. A
large number. 4 (in pl.) The years of a specified century (the seventeen
hundreds). 5 hist. Subdivision of a county or shire, having its own court.
hundredfold adj. & adv. Hundredth adj. & n. [old english]
Hundreds and thousands n.pl. Tiny coloured sweets for decorating cakes etc.
Hundredweight n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 unit of weight equal to 112 lb, or us equal to
100 lb. 2 unit of weight equal to 50 kg.
Hungry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 feeling or showing hunger; needing food. 2 inducing
hunger (hungry work). 3 craving (hungry for news). hungrily adv. [old english]
Hunk n. 1 large piece cut off (hunk of bread). 2 colloq. Sexually attractive man.
hunky adj. (-ier, -iest). [probably dutch]
Hunt —v. 1 (also absol.) A pursue and kill (wild animals, esp. Foxes, or game)
for sport or food. B use (a horse or hounds) for hunting. C (of an animal) chase
(its prey). 2 (foll. By after, for) seek, search. 3 (of an engine etc.) Run alternately
too fast and too slow. 4 scour (a district) for game. 5 (as hunted adj.) (of a look
too fast and too slow. 4 scour (a district) for game. 5 (as hunted adj.) (of a look
etc.) Terrified as if being hunted. —n. 1 practice or instance of hunting. 2 a
association of people hunting with hounds. B area for hunting. hunt down pursue
and capture. hunting n. [old english]
Hurl —v. 1 throw with great force. 2 utter (abuse etc.) Vehemently. —n.
Forceful throw. [imitative]
Hurley n. 1 (also hurling) irish game resembling hockey. 2 stick used in this.
Hurrah int. & n. (also hurray) exclamation of joy or approval. [earlier huzza,
origin uncertain]
Hurry —n. 1 great or eager haste. 2 (with neg. Or interrog.) Need for haste (there
is no hurry; what’s the hurry?). —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 move or act hastily. 2 cause to
hurry.
Hurt —v. (past and past part. Hurt) 1 (also absol.) Cause pain or injury to. 2
cause mental pain or distress to. 3 suffer pain (my arm hurts). —n. 1 injury. 2
harm, wrong. [french hurter knock]
Hurtle v. (-ling) 1 move or hurl rapidly or noisily. 2 come with a crash. [from
*hurt in the obsolete sense ‘strike hard’]
Husband —n. Married man, esp. In relation to his wife. —v. Use (resources)
economically; eke out. [old english, = house-dweller]
Hush —v. Make or become silent or quiet. —int. Calling for silence. —n.
Expectant stillness or silence. hush up suppress public mention of (an affair).
[husht, an obsolete exclamation, taken as a past part.]
Husk —n. 1 dry outer covering of some fruits or seeds. 2 worthless outside part
of a thing. —v. Remove husk(s) from. [probably low german]
Husky1 adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person or voice) dry in the throat; hoarse. 2 of or
full of husks. 3 dry as a husk. 4 tough, strong, hefty. huskily adv. Huskiness n.
Husky2 n. (pl. -ies) dog of a powerful breed used in the arctic for pulling
sledges. [perhaps from corruption of *eskimo]
Hussar n. Soldier of a light cavalry regiment. [magyar huszár]
Hustle —v. (-ling) 1 jostle, bustle. 2 (foll. By into, out of, etc.) Force, coerce, or
hurry (hustled them out of the room; was hustled into agreeing). 3 slang a solicit
business. B engage in prostitution. 4 slang obtain by energetic activity. —n. Act
or instance of hustling. hustler n. [dutch]
Hut n. Small simple or crude house or shelter. [french hutte from germanic]
Hydra n. 1 freshwater polyp with a tubular body and tentacles. 2 something hard
to destroy. [greek, a mythical snake with many heads that grew again when cut
off]
Hydrangea n. Shrub with globular clusters of white, pink, or blue flowers. [greek
hudor water, aggos vessel]
Hydrant n. Outlet (esp. In a street) with a nozzle for a hose, for drawing water
from the main. [as *hydro-]
Hydraulic adj. 1 (of water, oil, etc.) Conveyed through pipes or channels. 2 (of a
mechanism etc.) Operated by liquid moving in this way (hydraulic brakes).
hydraulically adv. [greek hudor water, aulos pipe]
Hydro n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 hotel or clinic etc., orig. Providing hydropathic
treatment. 2 hydroelectric power plant. [abbreviation]
Hydrofoil n. 1 boat equipped with planes for lifting its hull out of the water to
increase its speed. 2 such a plane.
Hydrogen n. Tasteless odourless gas, the lightest element, occurring in water and
all organic compounds. hydrogenous adj. [french: related to *hydro-, *-gen]
Hydroplane n. 1 light fast motor boat that skims over water. 2 finlike attachment
enabling a submarine to rise and descend.
Hydrostatic adj. Of the equilibrium of liquids and the pressure exerted by liquid
at rest. [related to *static]
Hygrometer n. Instrument for measuring the humidity of the air or a gas. [greek
hugros wet]
hugros wet]
Hygroscope n. Instrument indicating but not measuring the humidity of the air.
Hymen n. Membrane at the opening of the vagina, usu. Broken at the first
occurrence of sexual intercourse. [greek humen membrane]
Hype slang —n. Extravagant or intensive promotion of a product etc. —v. (-
ping) promote with hype. [origin unknown]
Hyperbola n. (pl. -s or -lae) plane curve produced when a cone is cut by a plane
that makes a larger angle with the base than the side of the cone makes.
hyperbolic adj. [greek hyperbole, = excess: related to *hyper-, ballo throw]
Hyperglycaemia n. (us hyperglycemia) excess of glucose in the bloodstream.
[from *hyper-, greek glukus sweet, haima blood]
Hypersonic adj. 1 of speeds of more than five times that of sound. 2 of sound-
frequencies above about a thousand million hertz.
Hyphen —n. Sign (-) used to join words semantically or syntactically (e.g. Fruit-
tree, pick-me-up, rock-forming), to indicate the division of a word at the end of a
line, or to indicate a missing or implied element (as in man-and womankind). —
v. = *hyphenate. [greek huphen together]
Hypnosis n. 1 state like sleep in which the subject acts only on external
suggestion. 2 artificially produced sleep. [greek hupnos sleep]
Hypodermic —adj. 1 of the area beneath the skin. 2 a injected beneath the skin.
B (of a syringe, etc.) Used to do this. —n. Hypodermic injection or syringe.
[from *hypo-, greek derma skin]
Hyssop n. 1 small bushy aromatic herb, formerly used medicinally. 2 bibl. Plant
whose twigs were used for sprinkling in jewish rites. [ultimately from greek
hyssopos, of semitic origin]
Hysterectomy n. (pl. -ies) surgical removal of the womb. [greek hustera womb,
*-ectomy]
Hz abbr. Hertz.
I
I1 n. (also i) (pl. Is or i’s) 1 ninth letter of the alphabet. 2 (as a roman numeral) 1.
I2 pron. (obj. Me; poss. My, mine; pl. We) used by a speaker or writer to refer to
himself or herself. [old english]
I3 symb. Iodine.
Iambic prosody —adj. Of or using iambuses. —n. (usu. In pl.) Iambic verse.
Iambus n. (pl. -buses or -bi) metrical foot consisting of one short followed by
one long syllable (&iambus.). [greek, = lampoon]
Iberian —adj. Of iberia, the peninsula comprising spain and portugal; of spain
and portugal. —n. Native or language of iberia. [latin iberia]
Ibex n. (pl. -es) wild mountain goat with thick curved ridged horns. [latin]
Ibid. Abbr. In the same book or passage etc. [latin ibidem in the same place]
Ibis n. (pl. -es) wading bird with a curved bill, long neck, and long legs. [greek,
from egyptian]
-ible suffix forming adjectives meaning ‘that may or may be’ (forcible;
possible). [latin]
-ible suffix forming adjectives meaning ‘that may or may be’ (forcible;
possible). [latin]
Ibo n. (also igbo) (pl. Same or -s) 1 member of a black people of se nigeria. 2
their language. [native name]
-ic suffix 1 forming adjectives (arabic; classic; public) and nouns (critic; epic;
-ic suffix 1 forming adjectives (arabic; classic; public) and nouns (critic; epic;
mechanic; music). 2 combined in higher valence or degree of oxidation (ferric;
sulphuric). [latin -icus, greek -ikos]
Ice —n. 1 a frozen water. B sheet of this on water. 2 ice-cream or water-ice (ate
an ice). —v. (icing) 1 mix with or cool in ice (iced drinks). 2 (often foll. By over,
up) a cover or become covered with ice. B freeze. 3 cover (a cake etc.) With
icing. on ice 1 performed by skaters. 2 colloq. In reserve. On thin ice in a risky
situation. [old english]
Iceberg n. Large floating mass of ice. the tip of the iceberg small perceptible part
of something very large or complex. [dutch]
Ice blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) very pale blue.
Ice-breaker n. 1 ship designed to break through ice. 2 joke, incident, etc. That
breaks the ice.
Ice-pack n. 1 = *pack ice. 2 ice applied to the body for medical purposes.
Ice-rink n. = *rink n. 1.
Ice-skate —n. Boot with a blade beneath, for skating on ice. —v. Skate on ice.
ice-skater n.
Ichneumon n. 1 (in full ichneumon fly) small wasp depositing eggs in or on the
larva of another as food for its own larva. 2 mongoose noted for destroying
crocodile eggs. [greek from ikhnos footstep]
-ician suffix forming nouns denoting persons skilled in subjects having nouns
usu. Ending in -ic or -ics (magician; politician). [french -icien]
Icicle n. Hanging tapering piece of ice, formed from dripping water. [from *ice,
obsolete ickle icicle]
Icon n. (also ikon) 1 painting of christ etc., esp. In the eastern church. 2 image or
statue. 3 symbol on a vdu screen of a program, option, or window, esp. For
selection. iconic adj. [greek eikon image]
Iconostasis n. (pl. -stases) (in the eastern church) screen bearing icons. [greek:
related to *icon]
Icosahedron n. Solid figure with twenty faces. [greek eikosi twenty, hedra base]
-ics suffix (treated as sing. Or pl.) Forming nouns denoting arts, sciences, etc.
(athletics; politics).
Icy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 very cold. 2 covered with or abounding in ice. 3 (of a tone
or manner) unfriendly, hostile. icily adv. Iciness n.
Idea n. 1 plan etc. Formed by mental effort (an idea for a book). 2 a mental
impression or concept. B vague belief or fancy (had an idea you were married). 3
intention or purpose (the idea is to make money). 4 archetype or pattern. 5
ambition or aspiration (have ideas; put ideas into a person’s head). have no idea
colloq. 1 not know at all. 2 be completely incompetent. Not one’s idea of colloq.
Not what one regards as (not my idea of a holiday). [greek, = form, kind]
Idealism n. 1 forming or pursuing ideals, esp. Unrealistically. 2 representation of
things in ideal form. 3 system of thought in which objects are held to be in some
way dependent on the mind. idealist n. Idealistic adj. Idealistically adv.
Idée fixe n. (pl. Idées fixes pronunc. Same) dominating idea; obsession. [french,
= fixed idea]
Identical adj. 1 (often foll. By with) (of different things) absolutely alike. 2 one
and the same. 3 (of twins) developed from a single ovum. identically adv. [latin
identicus: related to *identity]
Identify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 establish the identity of; recognize. 2 select or discover
(identify the best solution). 3 (also refl.; foll. By with) associate inseparably or
very closely (with a party, policy, etc.). 4 (often foll. By with) treat as identical.
5 (foll. By with) put oneself in the place of (another person). identifiable adj.
[medieval latin identifico: related to *identity]
Ides n.pl. Day of the ancient roman month (the 15th day of march, may, july, and
october, the 13th of other months). [latin idus]
Idiom n. 1 phrase etc. Established by usage and not immediately comprehensible
from the words used (e.g. Over the moon, see the light). 2 form of expression
peculiar to a language etc. 3 language of a people or country. 4 characteristic
mode of expression in art etc. [greek idios own]
Idle —adj. (idler, idlest) 1 lazy, indolent. 2 not in use; not working. 3 (of time
etc.) Unoccupied. 4 purposeless; groundless (idle rumour). 5 useless, ineffective
(idle protest). —v. (-ling) 1 be idle. 2 run (an engine) or (of an engine) be run
slowly without doing any work. 3 (foll. By away) pass (time etc.) In idleness.
idleness n. Idler n. Idly adv. [old english]
Idyllic adj. 1 blissfully peaceful and happy. 2 of or like an idyll. idyllically adv.
Igneous adj. 1 of fire; fiery. 2 (esp. Of rocks) volcanic. [latin ignis fire]
Ignite v. (-ting) 1 set fire to. 2 catch fire. 3 provoke or excite (feelings etc.).
[latin ignio ignit-set on fire]
Ignorant adj. 1 (often foll. By of, in) lacking knowledge (esp. Of a fact or
Ignorant adj. 1 (often foll. By of, in) lacking knowledge (esp. Of a fact or
subject). 2 colloq. Uncouth. ignorantly adv.
Ignore v. (-ring) refuse to take notice of; intentionally disregard. [latin ignoro not
know]
Ileum n. (pl. Ilea) third and last portion of the small intestine. [latin ilium]
Ilex n. (pl. -es) 1 tree or shrub of the genus including the common holly. 2 holm-
oak. [latin]
Iliac adj. Of the lower body (iliac artery). [latin ilia flanks]
Iliac adj. Of the lower body (iliac artery). [latin ilia flanks]
Ilk n. 1 colloq., usu. Derog. Sort, family, class, etc. 2 (in of that ilk) scot. Of the
ancestral estate with the same name as the family (guthrie of that ilk). [old
english]
Ill —adj. (attrib. Except in sense 1) 1 (usu. Predic.) Not in good health; unwell. 2
wretched, unfavourable (ill fortune; ill luck). 3 harmful (ill effects). 4 hostile,
unkind (ill feeling). 5 faulty, unskilful (ill management). 6 (of manners or
conduct) improper. —adv. 1 badly, wrongly, imperfectly (ill-matched; ill-
provided). 2 scarcely (can ill afford it). 3 unfavourably (spoke ill of them). —n.
1 injury, harm. 2 evil. ill at ease embarrassed, uneasy. [old norse]
Illegal adj. 1 not legal. 2 criminal. illegality n. (pl. -ies). Illegally adv.
Illicit adj. Unlawful, forbidden. illicitly adv.
Illuminate v. (-ting) 1 light up; make bright. 2 decorate (buildings etc.) With
lights. 3 decorate (a manuscript etc.) With gold, colour, etc. 4 help to explain (a
subject etc.). 5 enlighten spiritually or intellectually. 6 shed lustre on.
illuminating adj. Illumination n. Illuminative adj. [latin lumen light]
Ill-use v. = *ill-treat.
Illusionist n. Conjuror.
Imaginary adj. 1 existing only in the imagination. 2 math. Being the square root
of a negative quantity. [latin: related to *image]
Imbecile —n. 1 colloq. Stupid person. 2 person with a mental age of about five.
—adj. Mentally weak; stupid, idiotic. imbecilic adj. Imbecility n. (pl. -ies).
[french from latin]
Imbue v. (-bues, -bued, -buing) (often foll. By with) 1 inspire or permeate (with
feelings, opinions, or qualities). 2 saturate. 3 dye. [latin imbuo]
Imitate v. (-ting) 1 follow the example of; copy. 2 mimic. 3 make a copy of. 4 be
like. imitable adj. Imitator n. [latin imitor -tat-]
Imitative adj. 1 (often foll. By of) imitating; following a model or example. 2 (of
a word) reproducing a natural sound (e.g. Fizz), or otherwise suggestive (e.g.
Blob).
Immaculate conception n. Rc ch. Doctrine that the virgin mary was without
original sin from conception.
Immanent adj. 1 (often foll. By in) naturally present, inherent. 2 (of god)
omnipresent. immanence n. [latin: related to *in-2, maneo remain]
Immersion heater n. Electric device immersed in a liquid to heat it, esp. In a hot-
water tank.
Immoderate adj. Excessive; lacking moderation. immoderately adv.
Immortal —adj. 1 a living for ever; not mortal. B divine. 2 unfading. 3 famous
for all time. —n. 1 a immortal being. B (in pl.) Gods of antiquity. 2 person, esp.
An author, remembered long after death. immortality n. Immortalize v. (also -
ise) (-zing or -sing). Immortally adv.
Immune adj. 1 a (often foll. By against, from, to) protected against infection
through inoculation etc. B relating to immunity (immune system). 2 (foll. By
from, to) exempt from or proof against a charge, duty, criticism, etc. [latin
immunis exempt]
Immure v. (-ring) 1 imprison. 2 refl. Shut oneself away. [latin murus wall]
Imp n. 1 mischievous child. 2 small devil or sprite. [old english, = young shoot]
Impact —n. 1 effect of sudden forcible contact between two solid bodies etc.;
collision. 2 strong effect or impression. —v. 1 press or fix firmly. 2 (as impacted
adj.) (of a tooth) wedged between another tooth and the jaw. 3 (often foll. By on)
have an impact on. impaction n. [latin: related to *impinge]
Impale v. (-ling) transfix or pierce with a sharp stake etc. impalement n. [latin
palus *pale2]
Impatiens n. Any of several plants including the busy lizzie. [latin: related to
*impatient]
Impeach v. 1 charge with a crime against the state, esp. Treason. 2 us charge (a
public official) with misconduct. 3 call in question, disparage. impeachable adj.
Impeachment n. [french empecher from latin pedica fetter]
Impecunious adj. Having little or no money. impecuniosity n. Impecuniousness
n. [related to *pecuniary]
Impenetrable adj. 1 not able to be penetrated. 2 inscrutable. 3 inaccessible to
ideas, influences, etc. impenetrability n. Impenetrableness n. Impenetrably adv.
Imperfect —adj. 1 not perfect; faulty, incomplete. 2 gram. (of a tense) denoting
action in progress but not completed (e.g. They were singing). —n. Imperfect
tense. imperfectly adv.
Impervious adj. (usu. Foll. By to) 1 impermeable. 2 not responsive (to argument
etc.).
Impetigo n. Contagious skin infection forming pimples and sores. [latin impeto
assail]
Impetus n. 1 force with which a body moves. 2 driving force or impulse. [latin
impeto assail]
Impiety n. (pl. -ies) 1 lack of piety or reverence. 2 act etc. Showing this.
Implant —v. 1 (often foll. By in) insert or fix. 2 (often foll. By in) instil (an idea
etc.) In a person’s mind. 3 plant. 4 a insert (tissue etc.) In a living body. B (in
passive) (of a fertilized ovum) become attached to the wall of the womb. —n.
Thing implanted, esp. A piece of tissue. implantation n. [latin: related to *plant]
Implement —n. Tool, instrument, utensil. —v. Put (a decision, plan, contract,
etc.) Into effect. implementation n. [latin impleo fulfil]
Implode v. (-ding) (cause to) burst inwards. implosion n. [from *in-2: cf.
*explode]
Imply v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By that) strongly suggest or insinuate without
directly stating (what are you implying?). 2 signify, esp. As a consequence
(silence implies guilt). [latin: related to *implicate]
Impose v. (-sing) 1 (often foll. By on, upon) lay (a tax, duty, charge, or
obligation) on. 2 enforce compliance with. 3 also refl. (foll. By on, upon, or
absol.) Take advantage of (will not impose on you any longer). 4 (often foll. By
on, upon) inflict (a thing) on. [latin impono]
Impresario n. (pl. -s) organizer of public entertainment, esp. A theatrical etc.
Manager. [italian]
Imprint —v. 1 (often foll. By on) impress firmly, esp. On the mind. 2 a (often
foll. By on) make a stamp or impression of (a figure etc.) On a thing. B make an
impression on (a thing) with a stamp etc. —n. 1 impression, stamp. 2 printer’s or
publisher’s name etc. Printed in a book.
Impromptu —adj. & adv. Extempore, unrehearsed. —n. (pl. -s) 1 extempore
performance or speech. 2 short, usu. Solo, instrumental composition, often
improvisatory in style. [french from latin in promptu in readiness]
Impute v. (-ting) (foll. By to) attribute (a fault etc.) To. imputation n. [latin puto
reckon]
In symb. Indium.
In-1 prefix (also il-, im-, ir-) added to: 1 adjectives, meaning ‘not’ (inedible;
insane). 2 nouns, meaning ‘without, lacking’ (inaction). [latin]
In-2 prefix (also il-, im-, ir-) in, on, into, towards, within (induce; influx; insight;
intrude). [from *in, or from latin in (prep.)]
Inamorato n. (fem. Inamorata) (pl. -s) literary lover. [italian inamorato: related to
*in-2, latin amor love]
Inane adj. 1 silly, senseless. 2 empty, void. inanely adv. Inanity n. (pl. -ies).
[latin inanis]
Inanimate adj. 1 not endowed with, or deprived of, animal life (an inanimate
object). 2 spiritless, dull.
Inarticulate adj. 1 unable to express oneself clearly. 2 (of speech) not articulate;
indistinct. 3 dumb. 4 esp. Anat. Not jointed. inarticulately adv.
Inasmuch adv. (foll. By as) 1 since, because. 2 to the extent that. [from in as
much]
Inboard —adv. Within the sides or towards the centre of a ship, aircraft, or
vehicle. —adj. Situated inboard.
Incandescent adj. 1 glowing with heat. 2 shining. 3 (of artificial light) produced
by a glowing filament etc. incandescence n. [latin candeo be white]
Incantation n. Magical formula; spell, charm. incantational adj. [latin canto sing]
Incarnate —adj. Embodied in flesh, esp. In human form (is the devil incarnate).
—v. (-ting) 1 embody in flesh. 2 put (an idea etc.) Into concrete form. 3 be the
living embodiment of (a quality). [latin incarnor be made flesh: related to
*carnage]
Incessant adj. Unceasing, continual, repeated. incessantly adv. [latin cesso cease]
Incessant adj. Unceasing, continual, repeated. incessantly adv. [latin cesso cease]
Incest n. Sexual intercourse between persons too closely related to marry. [latin
castus chaste]
Inch —n. 1 linear measure of 1/12 of a foot (2.54 cm). 2 (as a unit of rainfall) 1
inch depth of water. 3 (as a unit of map-scale) so many inches representing 1
mile. 4 small amount (usu. With neg.: would not yield an inch). —v. Move
gradually. every inch entirely (looked every inch a queen). Within an inch of
almost to the point of. [old english from latin uncia *ounce]
Incident —n. 1 occurrence, esp. A minor one. 2 public disturbance (the march
took place without incident). 3 clash of armed forces (frontier incident). 4
distinct piece of action in a play, film, etc. —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) apt to
occur; naturally attaching. 2 (often foll. By on, upon) (of light etc.) Falling. [latin
cado fall]
Incidental —adj. (often foll. By to) 1 small and relatively unimportant, minor;
supplementary. 2 not essential. —n. (usu. In pl.) Minor detail, expense, event,
etc.
Incite v. (-ting) (often foll. By to) urge or stir up. incitement n. [latin cito rouse]
Inclined plane n. Sloping plane used e.g. To reduce work in raising a load.
Inclusive adj. 1 (often foll. By of) including. 2 including the limits stated (pages
Inclusive adj. 1 (often foll. By of) including. 2 including the limits stated (pages
7 to 26 inclusive). 3 including all or much (inclusive terms). inclusively adv.
Inclusiveness n.
Incognito —predic. Adj. & adv. With one’s name or identity kept secret. —n.
(pl. -s) 1 person who is incognito. 2 pretended identity. [italian, = unknown:
related to in-1, cognition]
Incomplete adj. Not complete.
Incongruous adj. 1 out of place; absurd. 2 (often foll. By with) out of keeping.
incongruity n. (pl. -ies). Incongruously adv.
Inconsiderate adj. (of a person or action) lacking regard for others; thoughtless.
Inconsiderate adj. (of a person or action) lacking regard for others; thoughtless.
inconsiderately adv. Inconsiderateness n.
Inconsolable adj. (of a person, grief, etc.) That cannot be consoled. inconsolably
adv.
Inconvenient adj. Causing trouble, difficulty, or discomfort; awkward.
inconveniently adv.
Increase —v. (-sing) make or become greater or more numerous. —n. 1 growth,
enlargement. 2 (of people, animals, or plants) multiplication. 3 amount or extent
of an increase. on the increase increasing. [latin cresco grow]
Inculcate v. (-ting) (often foll. By upon, in) urge or impress (a habit or idea)
persistently. inculcation n. [latin calco tread]
Incunabulum n. (pl. -la) 1 early printed book, esp. From before 1501. 2 (in pl.)
Early stages of a thing. [latin, (in pl.) = swaddling-clothes]
Incur v. (-rr-) bring on oneself (danger, blame, loss, etc.). [latin curro run]
Incursion n. Invasion or attack, esp. Sudden or brief. incursive adj. [latin: related
to *incur]
Incurve v. (-ving) 1 bend into a curve. 2 (as incurved adj.) Curved inwards.
incurvation n.
incurvation n.
Indecisive adj. 1 (of a person) not decisive; hesitating. 2 not conclusive (an
indecisive battle). indecisively adv. Indecisiveness n.
Indefeasible adj. Literary (esp. Of a claim, rights, etc.) That cannot be forfeited
or annulled. indefeasibly adv.
Indelible adj. That cannot be rubbed out or removed. indelibly adv. [latin deleo
efface]
Indent —v. 1 make or impress marks, notches, dents, etc. In. 2 start (a line of
print or writing) further from the margin than others. 3 draw up (a legal
document) in duplicate. 4 a (often foll. By on, upon a person, for a thing) make a
requisition. B order (goods) by requisition. —n. 1 a order (esp. From abroad) for
goods. B official requisition for stores. 2 indented line. 3 indentation. 4
indenture. [latin dens dentis tooth]
Independent —adj. 1 a (often foll. By of) not depending on authority or control.
B self-governing. 2 a not depending on another person for one’s opinions or
livelihood. B (of income or resources) making it unnecessary to earn one’s
living. 3 unwilling to be under an obligation to others. 4 acting independently of
any political party. 5 not depending on something else for its validity etc.
(independent proof). 6 (of broadcasting, a school, etc.) Not supported by public
funds. —n. Person who is politically independent. independence n.
Independently adv.
Indeterminate adj. 1 not fixed in extent, character, etc. 2 left doubtful; vague. 3
math. Of no fixed value. indeterminacy n.
Index —n. (pl. Indexes or indices) 1 alphabetical list of subjects etc. With
references, usu. At the end of a book. 2 = *card index. 3 measure of prices or
wages compared with a previous month, year, etc. (retail price index). 4 math.
Exponent of a number. 5 pointer, sign, or indicator. —v. 1 provide (a book etc.)
With an index. 2 enter in an index. 3 relate (wages etc.) To a price index.
indexation n. (in sense 3 of v.). [latin]
Indiaman n. (pl. -men) hist. Ship engaged in trade with india or the east indies.
Indian —n. 1 a native or national of india. B person of indian descent. 2 (in full
american indian) a original inhabitant of america. B any of the languages of the
american indians. —adj. 1 of india or the subcontinent comprising india,
pakistan, and bangladesh. 2 of the original peoples of america.
Indian elephant n. The elephant of india, smaller than the african elephant.
Indian summer n. 1 dry warm weather in late autumn. 2 late tranquil period of
life.
Indicate v. (-ting) (often foll. By that) 1 point out; make known. 2 be a sign of;
show the presence of. 3 call for; require (stronger measures are indicated). 4
state briefly. 5 give as a reading or measurement. 6 point by hand; use a
vehicle’s indicator (failed to indicate). indication n. [latin dico make known]
Indictable adj. 1 (of an offence) making the doer liable to be charged with a
crime. 2 (of a person) so liable.
Indie colloq. —adj. (of a pop group or record label) independent, not belonging
to one of the major companies. —n. Such a group or label. [abbreviation of
*independent]
Indigenous adj. (often foll. By to) native or belonging naturally to a place. [latin:
from a root gen-be born]
Indigo n. (pl. -s) 1 colour between blue and violet in the spectrum. 2 dye of this
colour. [greek indikon indian dye]
Indirect adj. 1 not going straight to the point. 2 (of a route etc.) Not straight. 3 a
not directly sought (indirect result). B not primary (indirect cause). indirectly
adv.
Indirect object n. Gram. Person or thing affected by a verbal action but not
primarily acted on (e.g. Him in give him the book).
Indissoluble adj. 1 that cannot be dissolved or broken up. 2 firm and lasting.
indissolubly adv.
Indite v. (-ting) formal or joc. 1 put (a speech etc.) Into words. 2 write (a letter
etc.). [french: related to *indict]
Individual —adj. 1 of, for, or characteristic of, a single person etc. 2 a single
(individual words). B particular; not general. 3 having a distinct character. 4
designed for use by one person. —n. 1 single member of a class. 2 single human
being. 3 colloq. Person (a tiresome individual). 4 distinctive person. [medieval
latin: related to *divide]
Indolent adj. Lazy; averse to exertion. indolence n. Indolently adv. [latin doleo
suffer pain]
Indubitable adj. That cannot be doubted. indubitably adv. [latin dubito doubt]
Induct v. (often foll. By to, into) 1 introduce into office, install (into a benefice
etc.). 2 archaic lead (to a seat, into a room, etc.); install. [related to *induce]
Indulge v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By in) take pleasure freely. 2 yield freely to (a
desire etc.). 3 (also refl.) Gratify the wishes of. 4 colloq. Take alcoholic liquor.
[latin indulgeo give free rein to]
Industrial adj. 1 of, engaged in, or for use in or serving the needs of industries. 2
(of a nation etc.) Having developed industries. industrially adv.
Industrialism n. System in which manufacturing industries are prevalent.
-ine suffix 1 forming adjectives, meaning ‘belonging to, of the nature of’ (alpine;
asinine). 2 forming feminine nouns (heroine). [latin -inus]
Inebriate —v. (-ting) 1 make drunk. 2 excite. —adj. Drunken. —n. Drunkard.
inebriation n. Inebriety n. [latin ebrius drunk]
Ineffable adj. 1 too great for description in words. 2 that must not be uttered.
ineffability n. Ineffably adv. [latin effor speak out]
Ineffective adj. Not achieving the desired effect or results. ineffectively adv.
Ineffectiveness n.
Inefficient adj. 1 not efficient or fully capable. 2 (of a machine etc.) Wasteful.
inefficiency n. Inefficiently adv.
Inept adj. 1 unskilful. 2 absurd, silly. 3 out of place. ineptitude n. Ineptly adv.
[latin: related to *apt]
Inertia reel n. Reel allowing a seat-belt to unwind freely but locking on impact
etc.
Inexpert adj. Unskilful; lacking expertise.
Infallible adj. 1 incapable of error. 2 unfailing; sure to succeed. 3 (of the pope)
incapable of doctrinal error. infallibility n. Infallibly adv.
Infant n. 1 a child during the earliest period of its life. B schoolchild below the
age of seven years. 2 (esp. Attrib.) Thing in an early stage of its development. 3
law person under 18. infancy n. [latin infans unable to speak]
Infanticide n. 1 killing of an infant, esp. Soon after birth. 2 person who kills an
infant.
Infatuate v. (-ting) (usu. As infatuated adj.) 1 inspire with intense usu. Transitory
fondness or admiration. 2 affect with extreme folly. infatuation n. [latin: related
fondness or admiration. 2 affect with extreme folly. infatuation n. [latin: related
to *fatuous]
Infer v. (-rr-) 1 deduce or conclude. 2 imply. inferable adj. [latin fero bring]
Inferior —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) lower in rank, quality, etc. 2 of poor quality.
3 situated below. 4 written or printed below the line. —n. Person inferior to
another, esp. In rank. [latin, comparative of inferus]
Inferno n. (pl. -s) 1 raging fire. 2 scene of horror or distress. 3 hell. [italian:
related to *infernal]
Infidel —n. Unbeliever in esp. The supposed true religion. —adj. 1 of infidels. 2
unbelieving. [latin fides faith]
Infighting n. 1 conflict or competitiveness between colleagues. 2 boxing within
arm’s length.
Infill —n. 1 material used to fill a hole, gap, etc. 2 filling gaps (esp. In a row of
buildings). —v. Fill in (a cavity etc.).
Infilling n. = *infill n.
Infinite —adj. 1 boundless, endless. 2 very great or many. —n. 1 (the infinite)
god. 2 (the infinite) infinite space. infinitely adv. [latin: related to in-1, finite]
Infinitive —n. Form of a verb expressing the verbal notion without a particular
subject, tense, etc. (e.g. See in we came to see, let him see). —adj. Having this
form.
Inflate v. (-ting) 1 distend with air or gas. 2 (usu. Foll. By with; usu. In passive)
puff up (with pride etc.). 3 a cause inflation of (the currency). B raise (prices)
artificially. 4 (as inflated adj.) (esp. Of language, opinions, etc.) Bombastic,
overblown, exaggerated. [latin inflo -flat-]
Inflect v. 1 change the pitch of (the voice). 2 a change the form of (a word) to
express grammatical relation. B undergo such a change. 3 bend, curve. inflective
adj. [latin flecto flex-bend]
Inflict v. (usu. Foll. By on) 1 deal (a blow etc.). 2 often joc. Impose (suffering,
oneself, etc.) On (shall not inflict myself on you any longer). infliction n.
Inflictor n. [latin fligo flict-strike]
Influence —n. 1 (usu. Foll. By on) effect a person or thing has on another. 2
(usu. Foll. By over, with) moral ascendancy or power. 3 thing or person
exercising this. —v. (-cing) exert influence on; affect. under the influence
colloq. Drunk. [latin influo flow in]
Influenza n. Virus infection causing fever, aches, and catarrh. [italian: related to
*influence]
Influx n. Flowing in, esp. Of people or things into a place. [latin: related to
*flux]
Inform v. 1 tell (informed them of their rights). 2 (usu. Foll. By against, on) give
incriminating information about a person to the authorities. [latin: related to
*form]
Infra adv. Below, further on (in a book etc.). [latin, = below]
Infra dig predic. Adj. Colloq. Beneath one’s dignity. [latin infra dignitatem]
Infrared adj. Of or using rays with a wavelength just longer than the red end of
the visible spectrum.
Infringe v. (-ging) 1 break or violate (a law, another’s rights, etc.). 2 (usu. Foll.
By on) encroach; trespass. infringement n. [latin frango fract-break]
Infuse v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By with) fill (with a quality). 2 steep (tea leaves
Infuse v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By with) fill (with a quality). 2 steep (tea leaves
etc.) In liquid to extract the content; be steeped thus. 3 (usu. Foll. By into) instil
(life etc.). [latin infundo -fus-: related to *found3]
-ing1 suffix forming nouns from verbs denoting: 1 verbal action or its result
(asking). 2 material associated with a process etc. (piping; washing). 3
occupation or event (banking; wedding). [old english]
-ing2 suffix 1 forming the present participle of verbs (asking; fighting), often as
adjectives (charming; strapping). 2 forming adjectives from nouns (hulking) and
verbs (balding). [old english]
Ingest v. 1 take in (food etc.). 2 absorb (knowledge etc.). ingestion n. [latin gero
carry]
Ingot n. (usu. Oblong) piece of cast metal, esp. Gold. [origin uncertain]
Ingrained adj. 1 deeply rooted; inveterate. 2 (of dirt etc.) Deeply embedded.
Ingratiate v.refl. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By with) bring oneself into favour.
Ingratiate v.refl. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By with) bring oneself into favour.
ingratiating adj. Ingratiatingly adv. [latin in gratiam into favour]
Ingrowing adj. (esp. Of a toenail) growing into the flesh. ingrown adj.
Inhabit v. (-t-) dwell in; occupy. inhabitable adj. [latin: related to *habit]
Inhale v. (-ling) (often absol.) Breathe in (air, gas, smoke, etc.). inhalation n.
[latin halo breathe]
Inherit v. (-t-) 1 receive (property, rank, title, etc.) By legal succession. 2 derive
(a characteristic) from one’s ancestors. 3 derive (a situation etc.) From a
predecessor. inheritable adj. Inheritor n. [latin heres heir]
Usage this tax was introduced in 1986 to replace capital transfer tax.
Inhospitable adj. 1 not hospitable. 2 (of a region etc.) Not affording shelter,
favourable conditions, etc. inhospitably adv.
Iniquity n. (pl. -ies) 1 wickedness. 2 gross injustice. iniquitous adj. [french from
latin aequus just]
Initial —adj. Of or at the beginning. —n. Initial letter, esp. (in pl.) Those of a
person’s names. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) mark or sign with one’s initials. initially adv.
[latin initium beginning]
Initiate —v. (-ting) 1 begin; set going; originate. 2 a admit (a person) into a
society, office, etc., esp. With a ritual. B instruct (a person) in a subject. —n.
society, office, etc., esp. With a ritual. B instruct (a person) in a subject. —n.
(esp. Newly) initiated person. initiation n. Initiator n. Initiatory adj. [latin initium
beginning]
Injury n. (pl. -ies) 1 physical harm or damage. 2 offence to feelings etc. 3 esp.
Law wrongful action or treatment. [latin injuria]
Injury time n. Extra playing-time at a football etc. Match to compensate for time
lost in dealing with injuries.
Ink —n. 1 coloured fluid or paste used for writing, printing, etc. 2 black liquid
ejected by a cuttlefish etc. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By in, over, etc.) Mark with ink. 2
cover (type etc.) With ink. [greek egkauston purple ink used by roman emperors]
Inky adj. (-ier, -iest) of, as black as, or stained with ink. inkiness n.
Inlay —v. (past and past part. Inlaid) 1 embed (a thing in another) so that the
surfaces are even. 2 decorate (a thing with inlaid work). —n. 1 inlaid work. 2
material inlaid. 3 filling shaped to fit a tooth-cavity. [from in-2, lay1]
Inlet n. 1 small arm of the sea, a lake, or a river. 2 piece inserted. 3 way of entry.
[from in, let1]
Inner —adj. (usu. Attrib.) 1 inside; interior. 2 (of thoughts, feelings, etc.)
Deeper. —n. Archery 1 division of the target next to the bull’s-eye. 2 shot
striking this. innermost adj. [old english, comparative of *in]
Inner city n. Central area of a city, esp. Regarded as having particular problems
(also (with hyphen) attrib.: inner-city housing).
Innings n. (pl. Same) 1 esp. Cricket part of a game during which a side is batting.
2 period during which a government, party, person, etc. Is in office or can
achieve something. [obsolete in (verb) = go in]
Innocent —adj. 1 free from moral wrong. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) not guilty (of a
crime etc.). 3 simple; guileless. 4 harmless. —n. Innocent person, esp. A young
child. innocence n. Innocently adv. [latin noceo hurt]
Inn of court n. Each of the four legal societies admitting people to the english
bar.
Innovate v. (-ting) bring in new methods, ideas, etc.; make changes. innovation
n. Innovative adj. Innovator n. Innovatory adj. [latin novus new]
Innuendo n. (pl. -es or -s) allusive remark or hint, usu. Disparaging or with a
double meaning. [latin, = by nodding at: related to *in-2, nuo nod]
Inoperative adj. Not working or taking effect.
Inorganic adj. 1 chem. (of a compound) not organic, usu. Of mineral origin. 2
without organized physical structure. 3 extraneous.
Input —n. 1 what is put in or taken in. 2 place where energy, information, etc.,
enters a system. 3 action of putting in or feeding in. 4 contribution of
information etc. —v. (inputting; past and past part. Input or inputted) (often foll.
By into) 1 put in. 2 supply (data, programs, etc., to a computer etc.).
Inquest n. 1 law inquiry by a coroner’s court into the cause of a death. 2 colloq.
Discussion analysing the outcome of a game, election, etc. [romanic: related to
*inquire]
Inri abbr. Jesus of nazareth, king of the jews. [latin iesus nazarenus rex
iudaeorum]
Insane adj. 1 mad. 2 colloq. Extremely foolish. insanely adv. Insanity n. (pl. -
ies).
Inscribe v. (-bing) 1 a (usu. Foll. By in, on) write or carve (words etc.) On a
surface, page, etc. B (usu. Foll. By with) mark (a surface) with characters. 2
(usu. Foll. By to) write an informal dedication in or on (a book etc.). 3 enter the
name of (a person) on a list or in a book. 4 geom. Draw (a figure) within another
so that points of it lie on the boundary of the other. [latin scribo write]
Insectivore n. 1 animal that feeds on insects. 2 plant which captures and absorbs
insects. insectivorous adj. [from *insect, latin voro devour]
Insecure adj. 1 a unsafe; not firm. B (of a surface etc.) Liable to give way. 2
uncertain; lacking confidence. insecurity n.
Insensible adj. 1 unconscious. 2 (usu. Foll. By of, to) unaware (insensible of her
needs). 3 callous. 4 too small or gradual to be perceived. insensibility n.
Insensibly adv.
Insensitive adj. (often foll. By to) 1 unfeeling; boorish; crass. 2 not sensitive to
physical stimuli. insensitively adv. Insensitiveness n. Insensitivity n.
Insert —v. Place or put (a thing) into another. —n. Something (esp. Pages)
inserted. [latin sero sert-join]
In-service attrib. Adj. (of training) for those actively engaged in the profession or
activity concerned.
Inset —n. 1 a extra section inserted in a book etc. B small map etc. Within the
border of a larger one. 2 piece let into a dress etc. —v. (insetting; past and past
part. Inset or insetted) 1 put in as an inset. 2 decorate with an inset.
Inside —n. 1 a inner side. B inner part; interior. 2 side away from the road. 3
(usu. In pl.) Colloq. Stomach and bowels. —adj. 1 situated on or in the inside. 2
football & hockey nearer to the centre of the field. —adv. 1 on, in, or to the
inside. 2 slang in prison. —prep. 1 on the inner side of; within. 2 in less than
(inside an hour). inside out 1 with the inner surface turned outwards. 2
thoroughly (knew his subject inside out).
Insider dealing n. Stock exch. Illegal practice of trading to one’s own advantage
through having access to confidential information.
Insinuate v. (-ting) 1 hint obliquely, esp. Unpleasantly. 2 (often refl.; usu. Foll.
By into) a introduce (a person etc.) Into favour etc., by subtle manipulation. B
introduce (a thing, oneself, etc.) Deviously into a place. insinuation n. [latin
sinuo curve]
Insistent adj. 1 (often foll. By on) insisting. 2 forcing itself on the attention.
insistence n. Insistently adv.
Insolvent —adj. Unable to pay one’s debts; bankrupt. —n. Insolvent person.
insolvency n.
Inspiration n. 1 a creative force or influence. B person etc. Stimulating creativity
etc. C divine influence, esp. On the writing of scripture etc. 2 sudden brilliant
idea. inspirational adj.
Install v. (also instal) (-ll-) 1 place (equipment etc.) In position ready for use. 2
place (a person) in an office or rank with ceremony. 3 establish (oneself, a
person, etc.). installation n. [latin: related to *stall1]
Instance —n. 1 example or illustration of. 2 particular case (that’s not true in this
instance). —v. (-cing) cite as an instance. for instance as an example. In the first
(or second etc.) Instance in the first (or second etc.) Place; at the first (or second
etc.) Stage (of a proceeding). [french from latin instantia contrary example]
Instant —adj. 1 occurring immediately. 2 (of food etc.) Processed for quick
preparation. 3 urgent; pressing. 4 commerce of the current month (the 6th
instant). —n. 1 precise moment (come here this instant). 2 short space of time (in
an instant). [latin insto be urgent]
Instep n. 1 inner arch of the foot between the toes and the ankle. 2 part of a shoe
etc. Over or under this. [ultimately from in-2, step]
Instil v. (us instill) (-ll-) (often foll. By into) 1 introduce (a feeling, idea, etc.)
Into a person’s mind etc. Gradually. 2 put (a liquid) into something in drops.
instillation n. Instilment n. [latin stillo drop]
Instill v. (brit. Instil) (-ll-) (often foll. By into) 1 introduce (a feeling, idea, etc.)
Into a person’s mind etc. Gradually. 2 put (a liquid) into something in drops.
instillation n. Instilment n. [latin stillo drop]
Instruction n. 1 (often in pl.) A order. B direction (as to how a thing works etc.).
2 teaching (course of instruction). instructional adj.
Instrument n. 1 tool or implement, esp. For delicate or scientific work. 2 (in full
musical instrument) device for producing musical sounds. 3 a thing used in
performing an action. B person made use of. 4 measuring-device, esp. In an
aeroplane. 5 formal, esp. Legal, document. [latin instrumentum: related to
*instruct]
Insubstantial adj. 1 lacking solidity or substance. 2 not real.
Insulin n. Hormone regulating the amount of glucose in the blood, the lack of
which causes diabetes. [latin insula island]
Insult —v. 1 speak to or treat with scornful abuse. 2 offend the self-respect or
modesty of. —n. Insulting remark or action. insulting adj. Insultingly adv. [latin
insulto leap on, assail]
Insurance n. 1 insuring. 2 a sum paid for this. B sum paid out as compensation
for theft, damage, etc. [french: related to *ensure]
Insure v. (-ring) (often foll. By against; also absol.) Secure compensation in the
event of loss or damage to (property, life, a person, etc.) By advance regular
payments. [var. Of *ensure]
Insurgent —adj. In active revolt. —n. Rebel. insurgence n. [latin surgo surrect-
rise]
Intaglio n. (pl. -s) 1 gem with an incised design. 2 engraved design. [italian:
related to in-2, tail2]
Intake n. 1 action of taking in. 2 a number (of people etc.), or amount, taken in or
received. B such people etc. (this year’s intake). 3 place where water is taken
into a pipe, or fuel or air enters an engine etc.
Usage the alternative pronunciation given for the adjective, stressed on the
second syllable, is considered incorrect by some people.
Integument n. Natural outer covering, as a skin, husk, rind, etc. [latin tego cover]
Intend v. 1 have as one’s purpose (we intend to go; we intend going). 2 (usu.
Foll. By for, as) design or destine (a person or a thing) (i intend him to go; i
intend it as a warning). [latin tendo stretch]
Intensifier n. 1 thing that makes something more intense. 2 word or prefix used
to give force or emphasis, e.g. Thundering in a thundering nuisance.
Intent —n. Intention; purpose (with intent to defraud). —adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By on)
a resolved, determined. B attentively occupied. 2 (esp. Of a look) earnest; eager.
to all intents and purposes practically; virtually. intently adv. Intentness n. [latin
intentus]
Interbreed v. (past and past part. -bred) 1 (cause to) breed with members of a
different race or species to produce a hybrid. 2 breed within one family etc.
Intercept v. 1 seize, catch, or stop (a person or thing) going from one place to
another. 2 (usu. Foll. By from) cut off (light etc.). interception n. Interceptive
another. 2 (usu. Foll. By from) cut off (light etc.). interception n. Interceptive
adj. Interceptor n. [latin intercipio -cept-from capio take]
Interchange —v. (-ging) 1 (of two people) exchange (things) with each other. 2
put each of (two things) in the other’s place; alternate. —n. 1 (often foll. By of)
exchange between two people etc. 2 alternation. 3 road junction where traffic
streams do not cross.
Interchangeable adj. That can be interchanged, esp. Without affecting the way a
thing works. interchangeably adv.
Usage the use of the noun and verb in sense 2 is deplored by some people.
Interferon n. Any of various proteins inhibiting the development of a virus in a
cell etc.
Interior —adj. 1 inner. 2 inland. 3 internal; domestic. 4 (usu. Foll. By to) situated
further in or within. 5 existing in the mind. 6 coming from inside. —n. 1 interior
part; inside. 2 interior part of a region. 3 home affairs of a country (minister of
the interior). 4 representation of the inside of a room etc. [latin]
Interlard v. (usu. Foll. By with) mix (writing or speech) with unusual words or
phrases. [french]
Interleave v. (-ving) insert (usu. Blank) leaves between the leaves of (a book
etc.).
Interlock —v. 1 engage with each other by overlapping. 2 lock or clasp within
each other. —n. 1 machine-knitted fabric with fine stitches. 2 mechanism for
preventing a set of operations from being performed in any but the prescribed
sequence.
Interloper n. 1 intruder. 2 person who interferes in others’ affairs, esp. For profit.
[after landloper vagabond, from dutch loopen run]
Intermarry v. (-ies, -ied) (foll. By with) (of races, castes, families, etc.) Become
connected by marriage. intermarriage n.
Intermediary —n. (pl. -ies) intermediate person or thing, esp. A mediator. —adj.
Acting as mediator; intermediate.
Intermediate —adj. Coming between two things in time, place, order, character,
etc. —n. 1 intermediate thing. 2 chemical compound formed by one reaction and
then used in another. [latin intermedius]
Interment n. Burial.
Intern —n. (also interne) esp. Us = *houseman. —v. Oblige (a prisoner, alien,
etc.) To reside within prescribed limits. internment n. [french: related to
*internal]
Internal adj. 1 of or situated in the inside or invisible part. 2 of the inside of the
body (internal injuries). 3 of a nation’s domestic affairs. 4 (of a student)
attending a university etc. As well as taking its examinations. 5 used or applying
within an organization. 6 a intrinsic. B of the mind or soul. internality n.
Internally adv. [medieval latin internus internal]
Internal evidence n. Evidence derived from the contents of the thing discussed.
Interpret v. (-t-) 1 explain the meaning of (words, a dream, etc.). 2 make out or
bring out the meaning of (creative work). 3 act as an interpreter. 4 explain or
understand (behaviour etc.) In a specified manner. interpretation n. Interpretative
adj. Interpretive adj. [latin interpres -pretis explainer]
adj. Interpretive adj. [latin interpres -pretis explainer]
Interpreter n. Person who interprets, esp. One who translates foreign speech
orally.
Interrelate v. (-ting) 1 relate (two or more things) to each other. 2 (of two or
more things) relate to each other. interrelation n. Interrelationship n.
Interrogative —adj. Of, like, or used in a question. —n. Interrogative word (e.g.
What?).
Interrogatory —adj. Questioning (interrogatory tone). —n. (pl. -ies) formal set of
questions.
Intersect v. 1 divide (a thing) by crossing it. 2 (of lines, roads, etc.) Cross each
other. [latin: related to *section]
Interstate adj. Existing or carried on between states, esp. Those of the us.
Intertwine v. (-ning) (often foll. By with) entwine (together).
Interval n. 1 intervening time or space. 2 pause or break, esp. Between the parts
of a performance. 3 difference in pitch between two sounds. at intervals here and
there; now and then. [latin intervallum space between ramparts]
Interweave v. (-ving; past -wove; past part. -woven) 1 weave together. 2 blend
intimately.
Interpret v. (-t-) 1 explain the meaning of (words, a dream, etc.). 2 make out or
bring out the meaning of (creative work). 3 act as an interpreter. 4 explain or
understand (behaviour etc.) In a specified manner. interpretation n. Interpretative
adj. Interpretive adj. [latin interpres -pretis explainer]
Interpreter n. Person who interprets, esp. One who translates foreign speech
orally.
Interrelate v. (-ting) 1 relate (two or more things) to each other. 2 (of two or
more things) relate to each other. interrelation n. Interrelationship n.
Interrogative —adj. Of, like, or used in a question. —n. Interrogative word (e.g.
What?).
Interrogatory —adj. Questioning (interrogatory tone). —n. (pl. -ies) formal set of
questions.
Intersect v. 1 divide (a thing) by crossing it. 2 (of lines, roads, etc.) Cross each
other. [latin: related to *section]
Interstate adj. Existing or carried on between states, esp. Those of the us.
Interstate adj. Existing or carried on between states, esp. Those of the us.
Interval n. 1 intervening time or space. 2 pause or break, esp. Between the parts
of a performance. 3 difference in pitch between two sounds. at intervals here and
there; now and then. [latin intervallum space between ramparts]
Interweave v. (-ving; past -wove; past part. -woven) 1 weave together. 2 blend
intimately.
Intestate —adj. Not having made a will before death. —n. Person who has died
intestate. intestacy n. [latin: related to *testament]
—adj. Not having made a will before death. —n. Person who has died
intestate. intestacy n. [latin: related to *testament]
Intestine n. (in sing. Or pl.) Lower part of the alimentary canal. intestinal adj.
[latin intus within]
Intimacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 state of being intimate. 2 intimate remark or act; sexual
intercourse.
Intimate2 v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By that) state or make known. 2 imply, hint.
intimation n. [latin intimo announce: related to *intimate1]
Intoxicant —adj. Intoxicating. —n. Intoxicating substance.
Intramural adj. 1 situated or done within the walls of an institution etc. 2 forming
part of normal university etc. Studies. intramurally adv. [latin murus wall]
Intrepid adj. Fearless; very brave. intrepidity n. Intrepidly adv. [latin trepidus
alarmed]
Introit n. Psalm or antiphon sung or said as the priest approaches the altar for the
eucharist. [latin introitus entrance]
Introvert —n. 1 person predominantly concerned with his or her own thoughts. 2
shy thoughtful person. —adj. (also introverted) characteristic of an introvert.
introversion n.
Intrude v. (-ding) (foll. By on, upon, into) 1 come uninvited or unwanted. 2 force
on a person. [latin trudo trus-thrust]
Intrust var. Of *entrust.
Inuit n. (also innuit) (pl. Same or -s) n. American eskimo. [eskimo inuit people]
Invade v. (-ding) (often absol.) 1 enter (a country etc.) Under arms to control or
subdue it. 2 swarm into. 3 (of a disease) attack. 4 encroach upon (a person’s
rights, esp. Privacy). invader n. [latin vado vas-go]
Invalid2 adj. Not valid. invalidity n.
Invasive adj. 1 (of weeds, cancer cells, etc.) Tending to spread. 2 (of surgery)
involving large incisions etc. 3 tending to encroach.
Inveigh v. (foll. By against) speak or write with strong hostility. [latin invehor -
vect-assail]
Inventory —n. (pl. -ies) 1 complete list of goods etc. 2 goods listed in this. —v.
(-ies, -ied) 1 make an inventory of. 2 enter (goods) in an inventory. [medieval
latin: related to *invent]
Inverse proportion n. (also inverse ratio) relation between two quantities such
that one increases in proportion as the other decreases.
Invert v. 1 turn upside down. 2 reverse the position, order, or relation of. [latin
verto vers-turn]
Inverted commas n.pl. = *quotation marks.
Invest v. 1 a (often foll. By in) apply or use (money), esp. For profit. B (foll. By
in) put money for profit into (stocks etc.). 2 (often foll. By in) devote (time etc.)
To an enterprise. 3 (foll. By in) colloq. Buy (something useful). 4 a (foll. By
with) provide or credit (a person etc. With qualities) (invested her with magical
importance; invested his tone with irony). B (foll. By in) attribute or entrust
(qualities or feelings) to (a person etc.) (power invested in the doctor). 5 (often
foll. By with, in) clothe with the insignia of office; install in an office. investor n.
[latin vestis clothing]
Investment trust n. Trust that buys and sells shares in selected companies to
make a profit for its members.
Inveterate adj. 1 (of a person) confirmed in a habit etc. 2 (of a habit etc.) Long-
established. inveteracy n. [latin vetus old]
Invidious adj. Likely to cause resentment or anger (invidious position; invidious
task). [latin invidiosus: related to *envy]
Invigorate v. (-ting) give vigour or strength to. invigorating adj. [medieval latin:
related to *vigour]
Invisible exports n.pl. (also invisible imports etc.) Intangible commodities, esp.
Services, involving payment between countries.
Invite —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By to, or to + infin.) Ask (a person) courteously
Invite —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By to, or to + infin.) Ask (a person) courteously
to come, or to do something. 2 make a formal courteous request for. 3 tend to
call forth unintentionally. 4 a attract. B be attractive. —n. Colloq. Invitation.
[latin invito]
Invoice —n. Bill for usu. Itemized goods or services. —v. (-cing) 1 send an
invoice to. 2 make an invoice of. [earlier invoyes pl. Of invoy: related to
*envoy]
Involuted adj. Complicated, abstruse.
Involve v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. By in) cause (a person or thing) to share the
experience or effect (of a situation, activity, etc.). 2 imply, entail, make
necessary. 3 (often foll. By in) implicate (a person) in a charge, crime, etc. 4
include or affect in its operations. 5 (as involved adj.) A (often foll. By in)
concerned. B complicated in thought or form. C amorously associated.
involvement n. [latin volvo roll]
Inward —adj. 1 directed towards the inside; going in. 2 situated within. 3
mental, spiritual. —adv. (also inwards) 1 towards the inside. 2 in the mind or
soul. [old english: related to in, -ward]
Inwrought adj. 1 (often foll. By with) (of a fabric) decorated (with a pattern). 2
(often foll. By in, on) (of a pattern) wrought (in or on a fabric).
Iodine n. 1 black crystalline element forming a violet vapour. 2 solution of this
as an antiseptic. [french iode from greek iodes violet-like]
Ion n. Atom or group of atoms that has lost one or more electrons (= *cation), or
gained one or more electrons (= *anion). [greek, = going]
-ion suffix (usu. As -sion, -tion, -xion) forming nouns denoting: 1 verbal action
(excision). 2 instance of this (a suggestion). 3 resulting state or product
(vexation; concoction). [latin -io]
Ionize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) convert or be converted into an ion or ions.
ionization n.
Iota n. 1 ninth letter of the greek alphabet (i, i). 2 (usu. With neg.) A jot. [greek
iota]
Iraqi —adj. Of iraq. —n. (pl. -s) 1 a native or national of iraq. B person of iraqi
descent. 2 the form of arabic spoken in iraq.
Irate adj. Angry, enraged. irately adv. Irateness n. [latin iratus from ira anger]
Iris n. 1 circular coloured membrane behind the cornea of the eye, with a circular
opening (pupil) in the centre. 2 plant of a family with bulbs or tuberous roots,
sword-shaped leaves, and showy flowers. 3 adjustable diaphragm for regulating
the size of a central hole, esp. For the admission of light to a lens. [greek iris
iridos rainbow]
Irish —adj. Of ireland or its people. —n. 1 celtic language of ireland. 2 (prec. By
Irish —adj. Of ireland or its people. —n. 1 celtic language of ireland. 2 (prec. By
the; treated as pl.) The people of ireland. [old english]
Irish coffee n. Coffee with a dash of whiskey and a little sugar, topped with
cream.
Iron —n. 1 grey metallic element used for tools and constructions and found in
some foods, e.g. Spinach. 2 this as a symbol of strength or firmness (man of
iron; iron will). 3 tool made of iron. 4 implement with a flat base which is heated
to smooth clothes etc. 5 golf club with an iron or steel sloping face. 6 (usu. In
pl.) Fetter. 7 (usu. In pl.) Stirrup. 8 (often in pl.) Iron support for a malformed
leg. —adj. 1 made of iron. 2 very robust. 3 unyielding, merciless. —v. Smooth
(clothes etc.) With an iron. iron out remove (difficulties etc.). [old english]
Iron age n. Period when iron replaced bronze in the making of tools and
weapons.
Ironclad —adj. 1 clad or protected with iron. 2 impregnable. —n. Hist. Warship
protected by iron plates.
Iron curtain n. Hist. Former notional barrier to the passage of people and
information between the soviet bloc and the west.
Iron in the fire n. Undertaking, opportunity (usu. In pl.: too many irons in the
fire).
Iron lung n. Rigid case fitted over a patient’s body for administering prolonged
artificial respiration.
Ironworks n. (as sing. Or pl.) Factory where iron is smelted or iron goods are
made.
Irradiate v. (-ting) 1 subject to radiation. 2 shine upon; light up. 3 throw light on
(a subject). irradiation n. [latin irradio shine on, from radius ray]
Irrational adj. 1 illogical; unreasonable. 2 not endowed with reason. 3 math. Not
commensurate with the natural numbers. irrationality n. Irrationally adv.
Irrelevant adj. (often foll. By to) not relevant. irrelevance n. Irrelevancy n. (pl. -
ies).
ies).
Irreparable adj. (of an injury, loss, etc.) That cannot be rectified or made good.
irreparably adv.
Irrespective adj. (foll. By of) not taking into account; regardless of.
Irrigate v. (-ting) 1 a water (land) by means of channels etc. B (of a stream etc.)
Supply (land) with water. 2 supply (a wound etc.) With a constant flow of liquid.
irrigable adj. Irrigation n. Irrigator n. [latin rigo moisten]
Irritable adj. 1 easily annoyed. 2 (of an organ etc.) Very sensitive to contact.
irritability n. Irritably adv. [latin: related to *irritate]
Irritate v. (-ting) 1 excite to anger; annoy. 2 stimulate discomfort in (a part of the
body). 3 biol. Stimulate (an organ) to action. irritating adj. Irritation n. Irritative
adj. [latin irrito]
-ish suffix forming adjectives: 1 from nouns, meaning: a having the qualities of
(boyish). B of the nationality of (danish). 2 from adjectives, meaning
‘somewhat’ (thickish). 3 colloq. Denoting an approximate age or time of day
(fortyish; six-thirtyish). [old english]
Isinglass n. 1 gelatin obtained from fish, esp. Sturgeon, and used in making
jellies, glue, etc. 2 mica. [dutch huisenblas sturgeon’s bladder]
Isle n. Poet. (and in place-names) island, esp. A small one. [french ile from latin
insula]
Ism n. Colloq. Usu. Derog. Any distinctive doctrine or practice. [from *-ism]
-ism suffix forming nouns, esp. Denoting: 1 action or its result (baptism;
organism). 2 system or principle (conservatism; jingoism). 3 state or quality
(heroism; barbarism). 4 basis of prejudice or discrimination (racism; sexism). 5
peculiarity in language (americanism). [greek -ismos]
Isobar n. Line on a map connecting places with the same atmospheric pressure.
isobaric adj. [greek baros weight]
Isomer n. One of two or more compounds with the same molecular formula but a
different arrangement of atoms. isomeric adj. Isomerism n. [greek *iso-, meros
share]
Isometric adj. 1 of equal measure. 2 (of muscle action) developing tension while
the muscle is prevented from contracting. 3 (of a drawing etc.) With the plane of
projection at equal angles to the three principal axes of the object shown. [greek
isometria equality of measure]
Isosceles adj. (of a triangle) having two sides equal. [from *iso-, greek skelos
leg]
Isotope n. One of two or more forms of an element differing from each other in
relative atomic mass, and in nuclear but not chemical properties. isotopic adj.
[from *iso-, greek topos place]
Isotropic adj. Having the same physical properties in all directions. isotropy n.
[from *iso-, greek tropos turn]
Israeli —adj. Of the modern state of israel. —n. (pl. -s) 1 native or national of
israel. 2 person of israeli descent. [hebrew]
Issue —n. 1 a act of giving out or circulating shares, notes, stamps, etc. B
quantity of coins, copies of a newspaper, etc., circulated at one time. C each of a
regular series of a magazine etc. (the may issue). 2 a outgoing, outflow. B way
out, outlet, esp. The place of the emergence of a stream etc. 3 point in question;
important subject of debate or litigation. 4 result; outcome. 5 law children,
progeny (without male issue). —v. (issues, issued, issuing) 1 literary go or come
out. 2 a send forth; publish; put into circulation. B supply, esp. Officially or
authoritatively (foll. By to, with: issued passports to them; issued them with
passports). 3 a (often foll. By from) be derived or result. B (foll. By in) end,
result. 4 (foll. By from) emerge from a condition. at issue under discussion; in
dispute. Join (or take) issue (foll. By with a person etc., about, on, over a
subject) disagree or argue. [latin exitus: related to *exit]
-ist suffix forming personal nouns denoting: 1 adherent of a system etc. In -ism:
(marxist; fatalist). 2 person pursuing, using, or concerned with something as an
interest or profession (balloonist; tobacconist). 3 person who does something
expressed by a verb in -ize (plagiarist). 4 person who subscribes to a prejudice or
practises discrimination (racist; sexist). [greek -istes]
Isthmus n. (pl. -es) narrow piece of land connecting two larger bodies of land.
[greek isthmos]
It pron. (poss. Its; pl. They) 1 thing (or occasionally an animal or child)
previously named or in question (took a stone and threw it). 2 person in question
(who is it? It is i). 3 as the subject of an impersonal verb (it is raining; it is
winter; it is two miles to bath). 4 as a substitute for a deferred subject or object
(it is silly to talk like that; i take it that you agree). 5 as a substitute for a vague
object (brazen it out). 6 as the antecedent to a relative word or clause (it was an
owl that i heard). 7 exactly what is needed. 8 extreme limit of achievement. 9
colloq. A sexual intercourse. B sex appeal. 10 (in children’s games) player who
has to perform a required feat. that’s it colloq. That is: 1 what is required. 2 the
difficulty. 3 the end, enough. [old english]
Italic —adj. 1 a of the sloping kind of letters now used esp. For emphasis and in
foreign words. B (of handwriting) compact and pointed like early italian
handwriting. 2 (italic) of ancient italy. —n. 1 letter in italic type. 2 this type.
[latin italicus: related to *italian]
Itch —n. 1 irritation in the skin. 2 impatient desire. 3 (prec. By the) (in general
use) scabies. —v. 1 feel an irritation in the skin. 2 feel a desire to do something
(itching to tell you). [old english]
Itchy adj. (-ier, -iest) having or causing an itch. have itchy feet colloq. 1 be
restless. 2 have a strong urge to travel. itchiness n.
-ite suffix forming nouns meaning ‘a person or thing connected with’ (israelite;
trotskyite; graphite; dynamite). [greek -ites]
Iterate v. (-ting) repeat; state repeatedly. iteration n. Iterative adj. [latin iterum
again]
-itic suffix forming adjectives and nouns corresponding to nouns in -ite, -itis, etc.
(semitic; arthritic). [latin -iticus, greek -itikos]
Itinerant —adj. Travelling from place to place. —n. Itinerant person. [latin iter
itiner-journey]
Itself pron. Emphatic and refl. Form of it. be itself see oneself. By itself see by
oneself. In itself viewed in its essential qualities (not in itself a bad thing). [old
english: related to it, self]
-ive suffix forming adjectives meaning ‘tending to’, and corresponding nouns
(suggestive; corrosive; palliative). [latin -ivus]
Ivory n. (pl. -ies) 1 hard substance of the tusks of an elephant etc. 2 creamy-
white colour of this. 3 (usu. In pl.) A article made of ivory. B slang thing made
of or resembling ivory, esp. A piano key or a tooth. [latin ebur]
Ivory tower n. Seclusion or withdrawal from the harsh realities of life (often
attrib.: ivory tower professors).
Ivy n. (pl. -ies) climbing evergreen shrub with shiny five-angled leaves. [old
english]
-ize suffix (also -ise) forming verbs, meaning: 1 make or become such
(americanize; realize). 2 treat in such a way (monopolize; pasteurize). 3 a follow
a special practice (economize). B have a specified feeling (sympathize). -ization
suffix forming nouns. [greek -izo]
Usage the form -ize has been in use in english since the 16th c.; it is widely used
in american english, but is not an americanism. The alternative spelling -ise
(reflecting a french influence) is in common use, esp. In british english, and is
obligatory in certain cases: (a) where it forms part of a larger word-element, such
as -mise (= sending) in compromise, and -prise (= taking) in surprise; and (b) in
verbs corresponding to nouns with -s-in the stem, such as advertise and televise.
Jab —v. (-bb-) 1 a poke roughly. B stab. 2 (foll. By into) thrust (a thing) hard or
abruptly. —n. 1 abrupt blow, thrust, or stab. 2 colloq. Hypodermic injection.
[var. Of job = prod]
Jabber —v. 1 chatter volubly. 2 utter (words) in this way. —n. Chatter; gabble.
[imitative]
Jack —n. 1 device for raising heavy objects, esp. Vehicles. 2 court-card with a
picture of a soldier, page, etc. 3 ship’s flag, esp. Showing nationality. 4 device
using a single-pronged plug to connect an electrical circuit. 5 small white target
ball in bowls. 6 a = *jackstone. B (in pl.) Game of jackstones. 7 (jack) familiar
form of john, esp. Typifying the common man, male animal, etc. (i’m all right,
jack). —v. (usu. Foll. By up) 1 raise with or as with a jack (in sense 1). 2 colloq.
Raise (e.g. Prices). every man jack every person. Jack in slang abandon (an
attempt etc.). [familiar form of the name john]
Jackal n. 1 african or asian wild animal of the dog family, scavenging in packs
for food. 2 colloq. Menial. [persian]
Jackanapes n. Archaic rascal. [earlier jack napes, supposed to refer to the duke of
suffolk]
Jackknife —n. 1 large clasp-knife. 2 dive in which the body is bent and then
straightened. —v. (-fing) (of an articulated vehicle) fold against itself in an
accident.
Jack plug n. Plug for use with a jack (see *jack n. 4).
Jackpot n. Large prize, esp. Accumulated in a game, lottery, etc. hit the jackpot
colloq. 1 win a large prize. 2 have remarkable luck or success.
Jackstone n. 1 metal etc. Piece used in tossing-games. 2 (in pl.) Game with a ball
and jackstones.
Jacobean —adj. 1 of the reign of james i. 2 (of furniture) heavy and dark in style.
—n. Jacobean person. [latin jacobus james]
Jacquard n. 1 apparatus with perforated cards, for weaving figured fabrics. 2 (in
full jacquard loom) loom with this. 3 fabric or article so made. [name of its
inventor]
Jacuzzi n. (pl. -s) propr. Large bath with massaging underwater jets of water.
[name of its inventor and manufacturers]
Jade1 n. 1 hard usu. Green stone used for ornaments etc. 2 green colour of jade.
[spanish ijada from latin ilia flanks (named as a cure for colic)]
J’adoube int. Chess declaration of the intention to adjust a piece without moving
J’adoube int. Chess declaration of the intention to adjust a piece without moving
it. [french, = i adjust]
Jag1 —n. Sharp projection of rock etc. —v. (-gg-) 1 cut or tear unevenly. 2 make
indentations in. [imitative]
Jagged adj. 1 unevenly cut or torn. 2 deeply indented. jaggedly adv. Jaggedness
n.
Jaguar n. Large american flesh-eating spotted animal of the cat family. [tupi]
Jail (also gaol) —n. 1 place for the detention of prisoners. 2 confinement in a
jail. —v. Put in jail. [french jaiole, ultimately from latin cavea cage]
Jalap n. Purgative drug from the tuberous roots of a mexican climbing plant.
[spanish xalapa, name of a mexican city, from aztec]
Jalousie n. Slatted blind or shutter to keep out rain etc. And control light.
[french: related to *jealousy]
Jam1 —v. (-mm-) 1 a (usu. Foll. By into, together, etc.) Squeeze, cram, or
wedge into a space. B become wedged. 2 cause (machinery etc.) To become
wedged or (of machinery etc.) Become wedged and unworkable. 3 a block (a
passage, road, etc.) By crowding etc. B (foll. By in) obstruct the exit of (was
jammed in). 4 (usu. Foll. By on) apply (brakes etc.) Forcefully or abruptly. 5
make (a radio transmission) unintelligible by interference. 6 colloq. (in jazz etc.)
Improvise with other musicians. —n. 1 squeeze, crush. 2 crowded mass (traffic
jam). 3 colloq. Predicament. 4 stoppage (of a machine etc.) Due to jamming. 5
(in full jam session) colloq. (in jazz etc.) Improvised ensemble playing.
[imitative]
Jam2 n. 1 conserve of boiled fruit and sugar. 2 colloq. Easy or pleasant thing
(money for jam). jam tomorrow promise of future treats etc. That never
materialize. [perhaps from *jam1]
Jamb n. Side post or side face of a doorway, window, or fireplace. [french jambe
leg, from latin]
Jammy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 covered with jam. 2 colloq. A lucky. B profitable.
Jangle —v. (-ling) 1 (cause to) make a (esp. Harsh) metallic sound. 2 irritate (the
nerves etc.) By discord etc. —n. Harsh metallic sound. [french]
January n. (pl. -ies) first month of the year. [latin janus, guardian god of doors]
Japan —n. Hard usu. Black varnish, orig. From japan. —v. (-nn-) 1 varnish with
japan. 2 make black and glossy. [japan in e. Asia]
Jape —n. Practical joke. —v. (-ping) play a joke. [origin unknown]
Japonica n. Flowering shrub with bright red flowers and round edible fruits.
[latinized name for japanese]
Jar2 —v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By on) (of sound, manner, etc.) Sound discordant,
grate (on the nerves etc.). 2 a (often foll. By against, on) (cause to) strike (esp.
Part of the body) with vibration or shock (jarred his neck). B vibrate with shock
etc. 3 (often foll. By with) be at variance or in conflict. —n. 1 jarring sound or
sensation. 2 physical shock or jolt. [imitative]
Jar3 n. on the jar ajar. [obsolete char turn: see *ajar, *char2]
Jasmine n. Ornamental shrub with white or yellow flowers. [french from arabic
Jasmine n. Ornamental shrub with white or yellow flowers. [french from arabic
from persian]
Jasper n. Opaque quartz, usu. Red, yellow, or brown. [french from latin from
greek iaspis]
Jaundice —n. 1 yellowing of the skin etc. Caused by liver disease, bile disorder,
etc. 2 disordered (esp. Mental) vision. 3 envy. —v. (-cing) 1 affect with
jaundice. 2 (esp. As jaundiced adj.) Affect (a person) with envy, resentment, etc.
[french jaune yellow]
Jaunt —n. Short pleasure trip. —v. Take a jaunt. [origin unknown]
Jaunty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 cheerful and self-confident. 2 sprightly. jauntily adv.
Jauntiness n. [french: related to *gentle]
Jaw —n. 1 a upper or lower bony structure in vertebrates containing the teeth. B
corresponding parts of certain invertebrates. 2 a (in pl.) The mouth with its bones
and teeth. B narrow mouth of a valley, channel, etc. C gripping parts of a tool
etc. D grip (jaws of death). 3 colloq. Tedious talk (hold your jaw). —v. Colloq.
Speak, esp. At tedious length. [french]
Jay n. Noisy european bird of the crow family with vivid plumage. [latin gaius,
gaia, perhaps from the name gaius: cf. Jackdaw, robin]
Jazzman n. Jazz-player.
Jcb n. Propr. Mechanical excavator with a shovel and a digging arm. [j. C.
Bamford, name of the makers]
Jealous adj. 1 resentful of rivalry in love. 2 (often foll. By of) envious (of a
person etc.). 3 (often foll. By of) fiercely protective (of rights etc.). 4 (of god)
intolerant of disloyalty. 5 (of inquiry, supervision, etc.) Vigilant. jealously adv.
[medieval latin zelosus: related to *zeal]
Jealousy n. (pl. -ies) 1 jealous state or feeling. 2 instance of this. [french: related
to *jealous]
Jeans n.pl. Casual esp. Denim trousers. [earlier geane fustian, = material from
genoa]
Jeep n. Propr. Small sturdy esp. Military vehicle with four-wheel drive.
[originally us, from the initials of general purposes]
Jeer —v. (often foll. By at) scoff derisively; deride. —n. Taunt. jeeringly adv.
[origin unknown]
Jejunum n. Small intestine between the duodenum and ileum. [latin: related to
*jejune]
Jekyll and hyde n. Person having opposing good and evil personalities. [names
of a character in a story by r. L. Stevenson]
Jell v. Colloq. 1 a set as jelly. B (of ideas etc.) Take a definite form. 2 cohere.
[back-formation from *jelly]
Jellify v. (-ies, -ied) turn into jelly; make or become like jelly. jellification n.
Jelly —n. (pl. -ies) 1 a (usu. Fruit-flavoured) translucent dessert set with gelatin.
B similar preparation as a jam, condiment, or sweet (redcurrant jelly). C similar
B similar preparation as a jam, condiment, or sweet (redcurrant jelly). C similar
preparation from meat, bones, etc., and gelatin (marrowbone jelly). 2 any similar
substance. 3 slang gelignite. —v. (-ies, -ied) (cause to) set as or in a jelly,
congeal (jellied eels). jelly-like adj. [french gelée from latin gelo freeze]
Jellyfish n. (pl. Same or -es) marine animal with a jelly-like body and stinging
tentacles.
Jemmy n. (pl. -ies) burglar’s short crowbar. [from the name james]
Jenny n. (pl. -ies) 1 hist. = *spinning-jenny. 2 female donkey. [from the name
janet]
Jerk1 —n. 1 sharp sudden pull, twist, twitch, start, etc. 2 spasmodic muscular
twitch. 3 (in pl.) Colloq. Exercises (physical jerks). 4 slang fool. —v. Move,
pull, thrust, twist, throw, etc., with a jerk. jerk off coarse slang masturbate.
[imitative]
Jerk2 v. Cure (beef) by cutting it in long slices and drying it in the sun. [quechua
echarqui dried fish in strips]
Jerky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 moving suddenly or abruptly. 2 spasmodic. jerkily adv.
Jerkiness n.
Jeroboam n. Wine bottle of 4–12 times the ordinary size. [jeroboam in the old
testament]
Jest —n. 1 joke; fun. 2 a raillery, banter. B object of derision. —v. Joke; fool
about. in jest in fun. [latin gesta exploits]
Jesuit n. Member of the society of jesus, a roman catholic order. [latin jesus,
founder of the christian religion]
Jesus int. Colloq. Exclamation of surprise, dismay, etc. [name of the founder of
the christian religion]
Jet1 —n. 1 stream of water, steam, gas, flame, etc., shot esp. From a small
opening. 2 spout or nozzle for this purpose. 3 jet engine or jet plane. —v. (-tt-) 1
spurt out in jets. 2 colloq. Send or travel by jet plane. [french jeter throw from
latin jacto]
Jet2 n. (often attrib.) Hard black lignite often carved and highly polished. [french
jaiet from gagai in asia minor]
Jet black adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) deep glossy black.
Jet lag n. Exhaustion etc. Felt after a long flight across time zones.
Jet propulsion n. Propulsion by the backward ejection of a high-speed jet of gas
etc.
Jet set n. Wealthy people who travel widely, esp. For pleasure. jet-setter n. Jet-
setting n. & attrib. Adj.
Jettison —v. 1 a throw (esp. Heavy material) overboard to lighten a ship etc. B
drop (goods) from an aircraft. 2 abandon; get rid of. —n. Jettisoning. [anglo-
french getteson: related to *jet1]
Jetty n. (pl. -ies) 1 pier or breakwater to protect or defend a harbour, coast, etc. 2
landing-pier. [french jetee: related to *jet1]
Jeweler n. (brit. Jeweller) maker of or dealer in jewels or jewellery.
Jib2 v. (-bb-) 1 (esp. Of a horse) stop and refuse to go on. 2 (foll. By at) show
aversion to. jibber n. [origin unknown]
Jibe1 var. Of *gibe.
Jibe2 v. (brit. Gybe) (-bing) 1 (of a fore-and-aft sail or boom) swing across. 2
cause (a sail) to do this. 3 (of a ship or its crew) change course so that this
happens. [dutch]
Jiff n. (also jiffy, pl. -ies) colloq. Short time; moment (in a jiffy). [origin
unknown]
Jig —n. 1 a lively leaping dance. B music for this. 2 device that holds a piece of
work and guides the tools operating on it. —v. (-gg-) 1 dance a jig. 2 (often foll.
By about) move quickly and jerkily up and down; fidget. 3 work on or equip
with a jig or jigs. [origin unknown]
Jiggered adj. Colloq. (as a mild oath) confounded (i’ll be jiggered). [euphemism]
Jiggle —v. (-ling) (often foll. By about etc.) Shake or jerk lightly; fidget. —n.
Light shake. [from *jig]
Jigsaw n. 1 a (in full jigsaw puzzle) picture on board or wood etc. Cut into
irregular interlocking pieces to be reassembled as a pastime. B problem
consisting of various pieces of information. 2 mechanical fretsaw with a fine
blade.
Jihad n. (also jehad) muslim holy war against unbelievers. [arabic jihad]
Jingo n. (pl. -es) supporter of war; blustering patriot. by jingo! Mild oath.
jingoism n. Jingoist n. Jingoistic adj. [conjuror’s word]
Jink —v. 1 move elusively; dodge. 2 elude by dodging. —n. Dodging or eluding.
[originally scots: imitative]
Jinnee n. (also jinn, djinn) (pl. Jinn or djinn) (in muslim mythology) spirit in
Jinnee n. (also jinn, djinn) (pl. Jinn or djinn) (in muslim mythology) spirit in
human or animal form having power over people. [arabic]
Jinx colloq. —n. Person or thing that seems to cause bad luck. —v. (esp. As
jinxed adj.) Subject to bad luck. [perhaps var. Of jynx wryneck, charm]
Jitter colloq. —n. (the jitters) extreme nervousness. —v. Be nervous; act
nervously. jittery adj. Jitteriness n. [origin unknown]
Jitterbug —n. 1 nervous person. 2 hist. Fast popular dance. —v. (-gg-) hist.
Dance the jitterbug.
Jive —n. 1 lively dance popular esp. In the 1950s. 2 music for this. —v. (-ving)
dance to or play jive music. jiver n. [origin uncertain]
Job —n. 1 piece of work to be done; task. 2 position in, or piece of, paid
employment. 3 colloq. Difficult task (had a job to find it). 4 slang crime, esp. A
robbery. 5 state of affairs etc. (bad job). —v. (-bb-) 1 do jobs; do piecework. 2
deal in stocks; buy and sell (stocks or goods). 3 deal corruptly with (a matter).
just the job colloq. Exactly what is wanted. Make a job (or good job) of do well.
On the job colloq. 1 at work. 2 engaged in sexual intercourse. Out of a job
unemployed. [origin unknown]
Usage up to oct. 1986 jobbers were permitted to deal only with brokers, not
directly with the public. From oct. 1986 the name ceased to be in official use
(see *broker 2).
Job’s comforter n. Person who intends to comfort but increases distress. [job in
the old testament]
Jobs for the boys n.pl. Colloq. Appointments for members of one’s own group
etc.
Jockey —n. (pl. -s) rider in horse-races, esp. Professional. —v. (-eys, -eyed) 1
trick, cheat, or outwit. 2 (foll. By away, out, into, etc.) Manoeuvre (a person).
jockey for position manoeuvre for advantage. [diminutive of *jock]
Jockstrap n. Support or protection for the male genitals, worn esp. In sport.
[slang jock genitals]
Jocose adj. Playful; jocular. jocosely adv. Jocosity n. (pl. -ies). [latin jocus jest]
Jocular adj. 1 fond of joking. 2 humorous. jocularity n. (pl. -ies). Jocularly adv.
Jocund adj. Literary merry, cheerful. jocundity n. (pl. -ies). Jocundly adv.
[french from latin jucundus pleasant]
Jodhpurs n.pl. Riding breeches tight below the knee. [jodhpur in india]
Jog —v. (-gg-) 1 run slowly, esp. As exercise. 2 push or jerk, esp. Unsteadily. 3
nudge, esp. To alert. 4 stimulate (the memory). 5 (often foll. By on, along)
trudge; proceed ploddingly (must jog on somehow). 6 (of a horse) trot. —n. 1
spell of jogging; slow walk or trot. 2 push, jerk, or nudge. [probably imitative]
John dory n. (pl. Same or -ies) edible marine fish. [see *dory]
Johnny n. (pl. -ies) 1 slang condom. 2 colloq. Fellow; man. [diminutive of john]
Johnny-come-lately n. Colloq. Newcomer; upstart.
Join —v. 1 (often foll. By to, together) put together; fasten, unite (with one or
several things or people). 2 connect (points) by a line etc. 3 become a member of
(a club, organization, etc.). 4 a take one’s place with (a person, group, etc.). B
(foll. By in, for, etc.) Take part with (others) in an activity etc. (joined them in
prayer). 5 (often foll. By with, to) come together; be united. 6 (of a river etc.) Be
or become connected or continuous with. —n. Point, line, or surface at which
things are joined. join battle begin fighting. Join forces combine efforts. Join
hands 1 clasp hands. 2 combine in an action etc. Join in (also absol.) Take part in
(an activity). Join up 1 enlist for military service. 2 (often foll. By with) unite,
connect. [latin jungo junct-]
Joint —n. 1 place at which two or more things or parts of a structure are joined;
device for joining these. 2 point at which two bones fit together. 3 division of an
animal carcass as meat. 4 slang restaurant, bar, etc. 5 slang marijuana cigarette. 6
geol. Crack in rock. —adj. 1 held, done by, or belonging to, two or more persons
etc. (joint mortgage; joint action). 2 sharing with another (joint author; joint
favourite). —v. 1 connect by joint(s). 2 divide at a joint or into joints. out of joint
1 (of a bone) dislocated. 2 out of order. jointly adv. [french: related to *join]
Jointure —n. Estate settled on a wife by her husband for use after his death. —v.
Provide with a jointure. [latin: related to *join]
Joist n. Supporting beam in a floor, ceiling, etc. [french giste from latin jaceo lie]
Jojoba n. Plant with seeds yielding an oily extract used in cosmetics etc.
[mexican spanish]
Joke —n. 1 thing said or done to cause laughter; witticism. 2 ridiculous person
or thing. —v. (-king) make jokes; tease (only joking). no joke colloq. Serious
matter. jokingly adv. Joky adj. (also jokey). Jokily adv. Jokiness n. [probably
latin jocus jest]
Joker n. 1 person who jokes. 2 slang person. 3 playing-card used in some games.
Jolly1 —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 cheerful; merry. 2 festive, jovial. 3 colloq. Pleasant,
delightful. —adv. Colloq. Very. —v. (-ies, -ied) (usu. Foll. By along) colloq.
Coax or humour in a friendly way. —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Party or celebration.
jollily adv. Jolliness n. [french jolif gay, pretty: perhaps related to *yule]
Jolly2 n. (pl. -ies) (in full jolly boat) clinker-built ship’s boat smaller than a
Jolly2 n. (pl. -ies) (in full jolly boat) clinker-built ship’s boat smaller than a
cutter. [origin unknown: perhaps related to *yawl]
Jolly roger n. Pirates’ black flag, usu. With skull and crossbones.
Jolt —v. 1 disturb or shake (esp. In a moving vehicle) with a jerk. 2 shock;
perturb. 3 move along jerkily. —n. 1 jerk. 2 surprise or shock. jolty adj. (-ier, -
iest). [origin unknown]
Jonah n. Person who seems to bring bad luck. [jonah in the old testament]
Jostle —v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By away, from, against, etc.) Push against;
elbow, esp. Roughly or in a crowd. 2 (foll. By with) struggle roughly. —n.
Jostling. [from *joust]
Jot —v. (-tt-) (usu. Foll. By down) write briefly or hastily. —n. Very small
amount (not one jot). [greek *iota]
Journey —n. (pl. -s) 1 act of going from one place to another, esp. At a long
distance. 2 time taken for this (a day’s journey). —v. (-s, -ed) make a journey.
[french jornee day, day’s work or travel, from latin diurnus daily]
Joust hist. —n. Combat between two knights on horseback with lances. —v.
Engage in a joust. jouster n. [french jouste from latin juxta near]
Jove n. (in roman mythology) jupiter. by jove! Exclamation of surprise etc. [latin
jupiter jov-]
Jovial adj. Merry, convivial, hearty. joviality n. Jovially adv. [latin jovialis:
related to *jove]
Jowl2 n. Loose hanging skin on the throat or neck. jowly adj. [old english]
Joy n. 1 (often foll. By at, in) pleasure; extreme gladness. 2 thing causing joy. 3
colloq. Satisfaction, success (got no joy). joyful adj. Joyfully adv. Joyfulness n.
Joyless adj. Joyous adj. Joyously adv. [french joie from latin gaudium]
Joyride colloq. —n. Pleasure ride in esp. A stolen car. —v. (-ding; past -rode;
past part -ridden) go for a joyride. joyrider n.
Joystick n. 1 colloq. Control column of an aircraft. 2 lever controlling movement
of an image on a vdu screen etc.
Judder —v. Shake noisily or violently. —n. Juddering. [imitative: cf. Shudder]
Judge —n. 1 public official appointed to hear and try legal cases. 2 person
appointed to decide in a contest, dispute, etc. 3 a person who decides a question.
B person regarded as having judgement of a specified type (am no judge; good
judge of art). —v. (-ging) 1 form an opinion or judgement (about); estimate,
appraise. 2 act as a judge (of). 3 a try (a case) at law. B pronounce sentence on. 4
(often foll. By to + infin. Or that + clause) conclude, consider. [latin judex judic-
]
Judgement day n. (in judaism, christianity, and islam) day on which mankind
will be judged by god.
Judicial adj. 1 of, done by, or proper to a court of law. 2 having the function of
judgement (judicial assembly). 3 of or proper to a judge. 4 impartial. judicially
adv. [latin judicium judgement]
Judo n. Sport derived from ju-jitsu. [japanese, = gentle way]
Jug —n. 1 deep vessel for liquids, with a handle and a lip for pouring. 2 contents
of this. 3 slang prison. —v. (-gg-) (usu. As jugged adj.) Stew or boil (esp. Hare)
in a casserole etc. jugful n. (pl. -s). [origin uncertain]
Juggle —v. (-ling) 1 a (often foll. By with) keep several objects in the air at once
by throwing and catching. B perform such feats with (balls etc.). 2 deal with
(several activities) at once. 3 (often foll. By with) misrepresent or rearrange
(facts) adroitly. —n. 1 juggling. 2 fraud. juggler n. [french from latin jocus jest]
Jugular —adj. Of the neck or throat. —n. = *jugular vein. [latin jugulum collar-
bone]
Jugular vein n. Any of several large veins in the neck carrying blood from the
head.
Juicy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of juice; succulent. 2 colloq. Interesting; racy,
Juicy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of juice; succulent. 2 colloq. Interesting; racy,
scandalous. 3 colloq. Profitable. juicily adv. Juiciness n.
Julian calendar n. Calendar introduced by julius caesar, with a year of 365 days,
Julian calendar n. Calendar introduced by julius caesar, with a year of 365 days,
every fourth year having 366.
Julienne —n. Vegetables cut into short thin strips. —adj. Cut into thin strips.
[french from name jules or julien]
Juliet cap n. Small net skullcap worn by brides etc. [juliet in shakespeare’s
romeo & juliet]
July n. (pl. Julys) seventh month of the year. [latin julius caesar]
Jumble —v. (-ling) (often foll. By up) confuse; mix up; muddle. —n. 1 confused
state or heap; muddle. 2 articles in a jumble sale. [probably imitative]
Jumbo n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 (often attrib.) Large animal (esp. An elephant), person,
or thing (jumbo packet). 2 (in full jumbo jet) large airliner for several hundred
passengers. [probably from *mumbo-jumbo]
Jump —v. 1 rise off the ground etc. By sudden muscular effort in the legs. 2
(often foll. By up, from, in, out, etc.) Move suddenly or hastily (jumped into the
car). 3 jerk or twitch from shock or excitement etc. 4 a change, esp. Advance in
status or rise, rapidly (prices jumped). B cause to do this. 5 (often foll. By about)
change the subject etc. Rapidly. 6 pass over (an obstacle etc.) By jumping. 7 skip
(a passage in a book etc.). 8 cause (a horse etc.) To jump. 9 (foll. By to, at) reach
(a conclusion) hastily. 10 (of a train) leave (the rails). 11 pass (a red traffic-light
etc.). 12 get on or off (a train etc.) Quickly, esp. Illegally or dangerously. 13
attack (a person) unexpectedly. —n. 1 act of jumping. 2 sudden jerk caused by
shock or excitement. 3 abrupt rise in amount, value, status, etc. 4 obstacle to be
jumped. 5 a sudden transition. B gap in a series, logical sequence, etc. jump at
accept eagerly. Jump bail fail to appear for trial having been released on bail.
Jump down a person’s throat colloq. Reprimand or contradict a person fiercely.
Jump the gun colloq. Begin prematurely. Jump on colloq. Attack or criticize
severely. Jump out of one’s skin colloq. Be extremely startled. Jump the queue
take unfair precedence. Jump ship (of a seaman) desert. Jump to it colloq. Act
promptly. One jump ahead one stage further on than a rival etc. [imitative]
Jumper2 n. 1 person or animal that jumps. 2 short wire used to make or break an
electrical circuit.
Jumping bean n. Seed of a mexican plant that jumps with the movement of a
larva inside.
Jump-lead n. Cable for conveying current from the battery of one vehicle to that
of another.
Jumpy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 nervous; easily startled. 2 making sudden movements.
jumpiness n.
June n. Sixth month of the year. [latin junius from juno, name of a goddess]
Jungian —adj. Of the swiss psychologist carl jung or his theories. —n. Supporter
of jung or of his theories.
Junior —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) inferior in age, standing, or position. 2 the
younger (esp. Appended to the name of a son for distinction from his father). 3
of the lower or lowest position (junior partner). 4 (of a school) for younger
pupils, usu. Aged 7–11. —n. 1 junior person. 2 person at the lowest level (in an
office etc.). [latin, comparative of juvenis young]
Juniper n. Evergreen shrub or tree with prickly leaves and dark-purple berry-like
cones. [latin juniperus]
Junk bond n. Bond bearing high interest but deemed to be a risky investment.
Junk food n. Food, such as sweets and crisps, with low nutritional value.
Junta n. (usu. Military) clique taking power in a coup d’état. [spanish: related to
*join]
Jural adj. 1 of law. 2 of rights and obligations. [latin jus jur-law, right]
Jurassic geol. —adj. Of the second period of the mesozoic era. —n. This era or
system. [french from jura mountains]
Juridical n. 1 of judicial proceedings. 2 relating to the law. [latin jus jur-law, dico
say]
Jury n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of usu. Twelve people giving a verdict in a court of
justice. 2 body of people awarding prizes in a competition.
Just —adj. 1 morally right or fair. 2 (of treatment etc.) Deserved (just reward). 3
well-grounded; justified (just anger). 4 right in amount etc.; proper. —adv. 1
exactly (just what i need). 2 a little time ago; very recently (has just seen them).
3 colloq. Simply, merely (just good friends; just doesn’t make sense). 4 barely;
no more than (just managed it). 5 colloq. Positively; indeed (just splendid; won’t
i just tell him!). 6 quite (not just yet). just about colloq. Almost exactly; almost
completely. Just in case as a precaution. Just now 1 at this moment. 2 a little
time ago. Just the same = all the same. Just so 1 exactly arranged (everything
just so). 2 it is exactly as you say. justly adv. Justness n. [latin justus from jus
right]
Justice of the peace n. Unpaid lay magistrate appointed to hear minor cases.
Justify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 show the justice or correctness of (a person, act, assertion,
etc.). 2 (esp. In passive) cite or constitute adequate grounds for (conduct, a
claim, etc.); vindicate. 3 (as justified adj.) Just, right (justified in assuming). 4
printing adjust (a line of type) to give even margins. justification n. Justificatory
adj.
Jut —v. (-tt-) (often foll. By out, forth) protrude, project. —n. Projection. [var.
Of *jet1]
Jute n. 1 fibre from the bark of an e. Indian plant, used esp. For sacking, mats,
etc. 2 plant yielding this. [bengali]
Juxtapose v. (-sing) 1 place (things) side by side. 2 (foll. By to, with) place (a
thing) beside another. juxtaposition n. Juxtapositional adj. [latin juxta next, pono
put]
Kaiser n. Hist. Emperor, esp. Of germany, austria, or the holy roman empire.
[latin *caesar]
Kalashnikov n. Type of soviet rifle or sub-machine-gun. [russian]
Kale n. Variety of cabbage, esp. With wrinkled leaves and no heart. [northern
var. Of *cole]
Kangaroo n. (pl. -s) australian marsupial with strong hind legs for jumping.
[aboriginal]
Kaolin n. Fine soft white clay used esp. For porcelain and in medicines. [chinese
kao-ling high hill]
Kapok n. Fine fibrous cotton-like substance from a tropical tree, used for
padding. [malay]
Karakul n. (also caracul) 1 asian sheep with a dark curled fleece when young. 2
fur of or like this. [russian]
Karate n. Japanese system of unarmed combat using the hands and feet as
weapons. [japanese, = empty hand]
Kauri n. (pl. -s) coniferous new zealand tree yielding timber and resin. [maori]
Kazoo n. Toy musical instrument into which the player sings or hums. [origin
uncertain]
Kea n. New zealand parrot with brownish-green and red plumage. [maori,
imitative]
Kebab n. Pieces of meat, vegetables, etc. Cooked on a skewer (cf. doner kebab,
shish kebab). [urdu from arabic]
Kedge —v. (-ging) 1 move (a ship) with a hawser attached to a small anchor. 2
(of a ship) move in this way. —n. (in full kedge-anchor) small anchor for this
purpose. [origin uncertain]
Keel —n. Main lengthwise member of the base of a ship etc. —v. 1 (often foll.
By over) (cause to) fall down or over. 2 turn keel upwards. on an even keel
steady; balanced. [old norse]
Keen1 adj. 1 enthusiastic, eager. 2 (foll. By on) enthusiastic about, fond of. 3 (of
the senses) sharp. 4 intellectually acute. 5 (of a knife etc.) Sharp. 6 (of a sound,
light, etc.) Penetrating, vivid. 7 (of a wind etc.) Piercingly cold. 8 (of a pain etc.)
Acute. 9 (of a price) competitive. keenly adv. Keenness n. [old english]
Keen2 —n. Irish wailing funeral song. —v. (often foll. By over, for) wail
mournfully, esp. At a funeral. [irish caoine from caoinim wail]
Keep —v. (past and past part. Kept) 1 have continuous charge of; retain
possession of. 2 (foll. By for) retain or reserve for (a future time) (kept it for
later). 3 retain or remain in a specified condition, position, place, etc. (keep cool;
keep out; keep them happy; knives are kept here). 4 (foll. By from) restrain, hold
back. 5 detain (what kept you?). 6 observe, honour, or respect (a law, custom,
commitment, secret, etc.) (keep one’s word; keep the sabbath). 7 own and look
after (animals). 8 a clothe, feed, maintain, etc. (a person, oneself, etc.). B (foll.
By in) maintain (a person) with a supply of. 9 carry on; manage (a business etc.).
10 maintain (a diary, house, accounts, etc.) Regularly and in proper order. 11
normally have on sale (do you keep buttons?). 12 guard or protect (a person or
place). 13 preserve (keep order). 14 (foll. By verbal noun) continue; repeat
habitually (keeps telling me). 15 continue to follow (a way or course). 16 a (esp.
Of food) remain in good condition. B (of news etc.) Not suffer from delay in
telling. 17 (often foll. By to) remain in (one’s bed, room, etc.). 18 maintain (a
person) as one’s mistress etc. (kept woman). —n. 1 maintenance, food, etc.
(hardly earn your keep). 2 hist. Tower, esp. The central stronghold of a castle.
for keeps colloq. Permanently, indefinitely. How are you keeping? How are you?
Keep at (cause to) persist with. Keep away (often foll. By from) avoid, prevent
from being near. Keep back 1 remain or keep at a distance. 2 retard the progress
of. 3 conceal. 4 withhold (kept back £50). Keep down 1 hold in subjection. 2
keep low in amount. 3 stay hidden. 4 not vomit (food eaten). Keep one’s hair on
see hair. Keep one’s hand in see hand. Keep in with remain on good terms with.
Keep off 1 (cause to) stay away from. 2 ward off. 3 abstain from. 4 avoid (a
subject) (let’s keep off religion). Keep on 1 continue; do continually (kept on
laughing). 2 continue to employ. 3 (foll. By at) nag. Keep out 1 keep or remain
outside. 2 exclude. Keep to 1 adhere to (a course, promise, etc.). 2 confine
oneself to. Keep to oneself 1 avoid contact with others. 2 keep secret. Keep track
of see *track. Keep under repress. Keep up 1 maintain (progress, morale, etc.). 2
keep in repair etc. 3 carry on (a correspondence etc.). 4 prevent from going to
bed. 5 (often foll. By with) not fall behind.
Kelp n. 1 large brown seaweed suitable for manure. 2 its calcined ashes,
formerly a source of sodium, potassium, etc. [origin unknown]
Ken —n. Range of knowledge or sight (beyond my ken). —v. (-nn-; past and
past part. Kenned or kent) scot. & n.engl. 1 recognize at sight. 2 know. [old
past part. Kenned or kent) scot. & n.engl. 1 recognize at sight. 2 know. [old
english, = make known: related to *can1]
Kennel —n. 1 small shelter for a dog. 2 (in pl.) Breeding or boarding place for
dogs. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) put into or keep in a kennel. [french chenil from latin
canis dog]
Kepi n. (pl. -s) french military cap with a horizontal peak. [french képi]
Keratin n. Fibrous protein in hair, feathers, hooves, claws, horns, etc. [greek
keras kerat-horn]
Kernel n. 1 (usu. Soft) edible centre within the hard shell of a nut, fruit stone,
seed, etc. 2 whole seed of a cereal. 3 essence of anything. [old english: related to
*corn1]
Kerosene n. (also kerosine) esp. Us fuel oil for use in jet engines, boilers, etc.;
paraffin oil. [greek keros wax]
Ketch n. Small two-masted sailing-boat. [probably from *catch]
Ketchup n. (us catsup) spicy esp. Tomato sauce used as a condiment. [chinese]
Kettle n. Vessel for boiling water in. a different kettle of fish a different matter
altogether. A fine (or pretty) kettle of fish iron. An awkward state of affairs. [old
norse]
Key1 —n. (pl. -s) 1 (usu. Metal) instrument for moving the bolt of a lock. 2
similar implement for operating a switch. 3 instrument for grasping screws, nuts,
etc., or for winding a clock etc. 4 (often in pl.) Finger-operated button or lever
on a typewriter, piano, computer terminal, etc. 5 means of advance, access, etc.
(key to success). 6 (attrib.) Essential (key element). 7 a solution or explanation.
B word or system for solving a cipher or code. C explanatory list of symbols
used in a map, table, etc. 8 mus. System of notes related to each other and based
on a particular note (key of c major).
Keypunch —n. Device for recording data by means of punched holes or notches
on cards or paper tape. —v. Record (data) thus.
Kg abbr. Kilogram(s).
Khaki —adj. Dull brownish-yellow. —n. (pl. -s) 1 khaki fabric or uniform. 2
dull brownish-yellow colour. [urdu, = dusty]
Khan n. Title of rulers and officials in central asia, afghanistan, etc. khanate n.
[turki, = lord]
Kibosh n. Slang nonsense. put the kibosh on put an end to. [origin unknown]
Kick —v. 1 strike, strike out, or propel forcibly, with the foot or hoof. 2 (often
foll. By at, against) protest at; rebel against. 3 slang give up (a habit). 4 (often
foll. By out etc.) Expel or dismiss forcibly. 5 refl. Be annoyed with oneself. 6
football score (a goal) by a kick. —n. 1 kicking action or blow. 2 colloq. A sharp
stimulant effect, esp. Of alcohol. B (often in pl.) Thrill (did it for kicks). 3
strength, resilience (no kick left). 4 colloq. Specified temporary interest (on a
jogging kick). 5 recoil of a gun when fired. kick about (or around) colloq. 1 a
drift idly from place to place. B be unused or unwanted. 2 a treat roughly. B
discuss unsystematically. Kick the bucket slang die. Kick one’s heels see *heel1.
Kickback n. Colloq. 1 recoil. 2 (usu. Illegal) payment for help or favours, esp. In
business.
Kick-start —n. (also kick-starter) device to start the engine of a motor cycle etc.
By the downward thrust of a pedal. —v. Start (a motor cycle etc.) In this way.
Kid1 —n. 1 young goat. 2 leather from this. 3 colloq. Child. —v. (-dd-) (of a
goat) give birth. handle with kid gloves treat carefully. [old norse]
Kid2 v. (also refl.) (-dd-) colloq. Deceive, trick, tease (don’t kid yourself; only
kidding). no kidding slang that is the truth. [origin uncertain]
Kidnap v. (-pp-; us -p-) 1 abduct (a person etc.), esp. To obtain a ransom. 2 steal
(a child). kidnapper n. [from kid1, nap = nab]
Kidney n. (pl. -s) 1 either of two organs in the abdominal cavity of vertebrates
which remove nitrogenous wastes from the blood and excrete urine. 2 animal’s
kidney as food. [origin unknown]
Kidney machine n. Machine able to take over the function of a damaged kidney.
Kidney-shaped adj. Having one side concave and the other convex.
Kill —v. 1 (also absol.) Deprive of life or vitality; cause death or the death of. 2
destroy (feelings etc.). 3 refl. Colloq. A overexert oneself (don’t kill yourself
trying). B laugh heartily. 4 colloq. Overwhelm with amusement. 5 switch off (a
light, engine, etc.). 6 computing colloq. Delete. 7 colloq. Cause pain or
discomfort to (my feet are killing me). 8 pass (time, or a specified period) usu.
While waiting (an hour to kill before the interview). 9 defeat (a bill in
parliament). 10 a tennis etc. Hit (the ball) so that it cannot be returned. B stop
(the ball) dead. 11 make ineffective (taste, sound, pain, etc.) (carpet killed the
sound). —n. 1 act of killing (esp. In hunting). 2 animal(s) killed, esp. By a
hunter. 3 colloq. Destruction or disablement of an enemy aircraft etc. dressed to
kill dressed showily or alluringly. In at the kill present at a successful
conclusion. Kill off 1 destroy completely. 2 (of an author) bring about the death
of (a fictional character). Kill or cure (usu. Attrib.) (of a remedy etc.) Drastic,
extreme. Kill two birds with one stone achieve two aims at once. Kill with
kindness spoil with overindulgence. [perhaps related to *quell]
Kiln n. Furnace or oven for burning, baking, or drying, esp. For calcining lime or
firing pottery etc. [old english from latin culina kitchen]
Kilobyte n. Computing 1,024 (i.e. 210) bytes as a measure of memory size etc.
Kilometer n. (brit. -metre) 1,000 metres (approx. 0.62 miles). kilometric adj.
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Kilometre n. (us -meter) 1,000 metres (approx. 0.62 miles). kilometric adj.
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Kilt —n. Pleated knee-length usu. Tartan skirt, traditionally worn by highland
men. —v. 1 tuck up (the skirts) round the body. 2 (esp. As kilted adj.) Gather in
vertical pleats. [scandinavian]
Kilter n. (also kelter) good working order (esp. Out of kilter). [origin unknown]
Kimono n. (pl. -s) 1 long sashed japanese robe. 2 similar dressing-gown.
[japanese]
Kin —n. One’s relatives or family. —predic. Adj. Related. [old english]
Kind —n. 1 race, species, or natural group of animals, plants, etc. (human kind).
2 class, type, sort, variety. 3 natural way, fashion, etc. (true to kind). —adj.
(often foll. By to) friendly, generous, or benevolent. in kind 1 in the same form,
likewise (was insulted and replied in kind). 2 (of payment) in goods or labour,
not money. 3 character, quality (differ in degree but not in kind). Kind of colloq.
To some extent (i kind of expected it). A kind of loosely resembling (he’s a kind
of doctor). [old english]
Usage in sense 2 of the noun, these kinds of is usually preferred to these kind of.
Kindling n. Small sticks etc. For lighting fires.
Kindly1 adv. 1 in a kind manner (spoke kindly). 2 often iron. Please (kindly go
away). look kindly upon regard sympathetically. Take kindly to be pleased by;
like.
Kindly2 adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 kind, kind-hearted. 2 (of a climate etc.) Pleasant, mild.
kindlily adv. Kindliness n.
Kinematics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Branch of mechanics concerned with the
motion of objects without reference to cause. kinematic adj. [greek kinema -
matos motion]
King n. 1 (as a title usu. King) male sovereign, esp. A hereditary ruler. 2 pre-
eminent person or thing (oil king). 3 (attrib.) Large (or the largest) kind of plant,
animal, etc. (king penguin). 4 chess piece which must be checkmated for a win.
5 crowned piece in draughts. 6 court-card depicting a king. 7 (the king) national
anthem when the sovereign is male. kingly adj. Kingship n. [old english]
Kingfisher n. Small bird with brightly coloured plumage, diving for fish etc.
King-post n. Upright post from the tie-beam of a roof to the apex of a truss.
Kink —n. 1 a twist or bend in wire etc. B tight wave in hair. 2 mental twist or
quirk, esp. When perverse. —v. (cause to) form a kink. [low german or dutch]
Kip slang —n. 1 sleep; nap. 2 bed or cheap lodgings. —v. (-pp-) (often foll. By
down) sleep. [cf. Danish kippe mean hut]
Kipper —n. Fish, esp. A herring, split, salted, dried, and usu. Smoked. —v. Cure
(a herring etc.) Thus. [origin uncertain]
Kirby-grip n. (also kirbigrip propr.) Type of sprung hairgrip. [kirby, name of the
manufacturer]
Kirk n. Scot. & n.engl. 1 church. 2 (the kirk or the kirk of scotland) church of
scotland. [old norse kirkja = *church]
Kiss —v. 1 touch with the lips, esp. As a sign of love, affection, greeting, or
reverence. 2 (of two people) touch each others’ lips in this way. 3 lightly touch.
—n. 1 touch with the lips. 2 light touch. kiss and tell recount one’s sexual
exploits. Kiss a person’s arse coarse slang toady to. Kiss the dust submit
abjectly. [old english]
Kiss-curl n. Small curl of hair on the forehead, nape, etc.
Kit —n. 1 articles, equipment, etc. For a specific purpose (first-aid kit). 2
specialized, esp. Sports, clothing or uniform (football kit). 3 set of parts needed
to assemble furniture, a model, etc. —v. (-tt-) (often foll.
Kitbag n. Large usu. Cylindrical bag used for a soldier’s or traveller’s kit.
Kitchen n. 1 place where food is prepared and cooked. 2 kitchen fitments (half-
price kitchens). [latin coquina]
Kitchenware n. Cooking utensils.
Kite n. 1 light framework with a thin covering flown on a string in the wind. 2
soaring bird of prey. [old english]
Kith n. kith and kin friends and relations. [old english, originally ‘knowledge’:
related to *can1]
Kitsch n. (often attrib.) Vulgar, pretentious, or worthless art. kitschy adj. (-ier, -
iest). [german]
Kitten —n. Young cat, ferret, etc. —v. (of a cat etc.) Give birth (to). have kittens
colloq. Be very upset or anxious. [anglo-french diminutive of chat *cat]
Kitty1 n. (pl. -ies) 1 fund of money for communal use. 2 pool in some card-
games. [origin unknown]
Kitty2 n. (pl. -ies) childish name for a kitten or cat.
Kiwi n. (pl. -s) 1 flightless long-billed new zealand bird. 2 (kiwi) colloq. New
zealander. [maori]
Kj abbr. Kilojoule(s).
Kl abbr. Kilolitre(s).
Km abbr. Kilometre(s).
Knacker —n. Buyer of useless horses etc. For slaughter, or of old houses, ships,
etc. For the materials. —v. Slang (esp. As knackered adj.) Exhaust, wear out.
[origin unknown]
Knapsack n. Soldier’s or hiker’s usu. Canvas bag carried on the back. [german
knappen bite, *sack1]
Knapweed n. Plant with thistle-like purple flowers. [from knop ornamental knob
or tuft]
Knee —n. 1 a (often attrib.) Joint between the thigh and the lower leg in humans.
B corresponding joint in other animals. C area around this. D lap (sat on his
knee). 2 part of a garment covering the knee. —v. (knees, kneed, kneeing) 1
touch or strike with the knee (kneed him in the groin). 2 colloq. Make (trousers)
bulge at the knee. bring a person to his (or her) knees reduce a person to
submission. [old english]
Kneecap —n. 1 convex bone in front of the knee. 2 protective covering for the
knee. —v. (-pp-) slang (of a terrorist) shoot (a person) in the knee or leg as a
punishment.
Kneel v. (past and past part. Knelt or esp. Us kneeled) fall or rest on the knees or
a knee. [old english: related to *knee]
Knell —n. 1 sound of a bell, esp. For a death or funeral. 2 announcement, event,
etc., regarded as an ill omen. —v. 1 ring a knell. 2 proclaim by or as by a knell.
[old english]
[old english]
Knickerbocker n. (in pl.) Loose-fitting breeches gathered at the knee or calf. [the
pseudonym of w. Irving, author of history of new york]
Knife —n. (pl. Knives) 1 metal blade for cutting or as a weapon, with usu. One
long sharp edge fixed in a handle. 2 cutting-blade in a machine. 3 (as the knife)
surgical operation. —v. (-fing) cut or stab with a knife. at knife-point threatened
with a knife or an ultimatum etc. Get (or have got) one’s knife into treat
maliciously, persecute. [old english]
Knit v. (-tt-; past and past part. Knitted or (esp. In senses 2–4) knit) 1 (also
absol.) A make (a garment etc.) By interlocking loops of esp. Wool with
knitting-needles or a knitting-machine. B make (a plain stitch) in knitting (knit
one, purl one). 2 momentarily wrinkle (the forehead) or (of the forehead)
become momentarily wrinkled. 3 (often foll. By together) make or become close
or compact. 4 (often foll. By together) (of a broken bone) become joined; heal.
knit up make or repair by knitting. knitter n. [old english]
Knitting-needle n. Thin pointed rod used esp. In pairs for knitting by hand.
Knob n. 1 rounded protuberance, esp. At the end or on the surface of a thing, e.g.
The handle of a door, drawer, a radio control, etc. 2 small piece (of butter etc.).
with knobs on slang that and more (same to you with knobs on). knobby adj.
Knoblike adj. [low german knobbe knot, knob]
Knobbly adj. (-ier, -iest) hard and lumpy. [knobble, diminutive of *knob]
Knock —v. 1 a strike with an audible sharp blow. B (often foll. By at) strike (a
door etc.) To gain admittance. 2 make (a hole etc.) By knocking. 3 (usu. Foll. By
in, out, off, etc.) Drive (a thing, person, etc.) By striking (knocked the ball into
the hole; knocked those ideas out of him). 4 slang criticize. 5 a (of an engine)
make a thumping or rattling noise. B = *pink3. 6 coarse slang offens. = knock
off 6. —n. 1 act or sound of knocking. 2 knocking sound in esp. An engine.
knock about (or around) colloq. 1 strike repeatedly; treat roughly. 2 a wander
aimlessly or adventurously. B be present, esp. By chance (a cup knocking about
somewhere). C (usu. Foll. By with) be associated socially. Knock back 1 slang
eat or drink, esp. Quickly. 2 slang disconcert. Knock down 1 strike (esp. A
person) to the ground. 2 demolish. 3 (usu. Foll.
Knockabout attrib. Adj. 1 (of comedy) boisterous; slapstick. 2 (of clothes) hard-
wearing.
Knock-down attrib. Adj. 1 overwhelming. 2 (of a price) very low. 3 (of a price at
auction) reserve. 4 (of furniture etc.) Easily dismantled and reassembled.
Knocker n. 1 hinged esp. Metal instrument on a door for knocking with. 2 (in
pl.) Coarse slang woman’s breasts.
Knock knees n.pl. Abnormal curvature of the legs inwards at the knee. knock-
kneed adj.
Knotgrass n. Wild plant with creeping stems and small pink flowers.
Know v. (past knew; past part. Known) 1 (often foll. By that, how, what, etc.) A
have in the mind; have learnt; be able to recall (knows a lot about cars). B (also
absol.) Be aware of (a fact) (i think he knows). C have a good command of
(knew german; knows his tables).
Knowing adj. 1 suggesting that one has inside information (a knowing look). 2
showing knowledge; shrewd.
Knuckle —n. 1 bone at a finger-joint, esp. That connecting the finger to the
hand. 2 a knee-or ankle-joint of a quadruped. B this as a joint of meat, esp. Of
bacon or pork. —v. (-ling) strike, press, or rub with the knuckles. knuckle down
(often foll. By to) 1 apply oneself seriously (to a task etc.). 2 (also knuckle
under) give in; submit. [low german or dutch diminutive of knoke bone]
Knuckleduster n. Metal guard worn over the knuckles in fighting, esp. In order
to inflict greater damage.
Ko abbr. Knockout.
Koala n. (in full koala bear) small australian bearlike marsupial with thick grey
fur. [aboriginal]
Kohl n. Black powder used as eye make-up, esp. In eastern countries. [arabic]
Kohlrabi n. (pl. -bies) cabbage with an edible turnip-like swollen stem. [german,
from italian cavolo rapa]
Kook n. Us slang crazy or eccentric person. kooky adj. (-ier, -iest). [probably
from *cuckoo]
Koppie n. (also kopje) s.afr. Small hill. [afrikaans koppie little head]
Kowtow —n. Hist. Chinese custom of kneeling with the forehead touching the
ground, esp. In submission. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By to) act obsequiously. 2 hist.
Perform the kowtow. [chinese, = knock the head]
Kr symb. Krypton.
Kr symb. Krypton.
Kraal n. S.afr. 1 village of huts enclosed by a fence. 2 enclosure for cattle or
sheep. [afrikaans from portuguese curral, of hottentot origin]
Krona n. 1 (pl. Kronor) chief monetary unit of sweden. 2 (pl. Kronur) chief
monetary unit of iceland. [swedish and icelandic, = *crown]
Krone n. (pl. Kroner) chief monetary unit of denmark and norway. [danish and
norwegian, = *crown]
Krypton n. Inert gaseous element used in fluorescent lamps etc. [greek krupto
hide]
Ku symb. Kurchatovium.
Kudu n. (also koodoo) (pl. Same or -s) african antelope with white stripes and
corkscrew-shaped ridged horns. [xhosa]
Kufic (also cufic) —n. Early angular form of the arabic alphabet used esp. In
decorative inscriptions. —adj. Of or in this script. [from kufa, city in iraq]
Ku klux klan n. Secret white racist society in the southern us. [origin uncertain]
Kümmel n. Sweet liqueur flavoured with caraway and cumin seeds. [german:
related to *cumin]
Kv abbr. Kilovolt(s).
Kw abbr. Kilowatt(s).
La symb. Lanthanum.
La var. Of *lah.
Label —n. 1 piece of paper etc. Attached to an object to give information about
it. 2 short classifying phrase applied to a person etc. 3 logo, title, or trademark of
a company. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 attach a label to. 2 (usu. Foll. By as) assign to a
category. 3 replace (an atom) by an atom of a usu. Radioactive isotope as a
means of identification. [french]
Labial —adj. 1 a of the lips. B of, like, or serving as a lip. 2 (of a sound)
requiring partial or complete closure of the lips. —n. Labial sound (e.g. P, m, v).
[latin labia lips]
Labium n. (pl. Labia) (usu. In pl.) Each fold of skin of the two pairs enclosing
the vulva. [latin, = lip]
Laborer n. (brit. Labourer) person doing unskilled, usu. Manual, work for wages.
Laborious adj. 1 needing hard work or toil. 2 (esp. Of literary style) showing
signs of toil. laboriously adv. [latin: related to *labour]
Labour (us & austral. Labor) —n. 1 physical or mental work; exertion. 2 a
workers, esp. Manual, considered as a political and economic force. B (labour)
labour party. 3 process of childbirth. 4 particular task. —v. 1 work hard; exert
oneself. 2 a elaborate needlessly (don’t labour the point). B (as laboured adj.)
oneself. 2 a elaborate needlessly (don’t labour the point). B (as laboured adj.)
Done with great effort; not spontaneous.
Labour day n. May 1 (or in the us and canada the first monday in september),
celebrated in honour of working people.
Labourer n. (us laborer) person doing unskilled, usu. Manual, work for wages.
Lace —n. 1 fine open fabric or trimming, made by weaving thread in patterns. 2
cord etc. Passed through holes or hooks for fastening shoes etc. —v. (-cing) 1
(usu. Foll. By up) fasten or tighten with a lace or laces. 2 add spirits to (a drink).
3 (often foll. By through) pass (a shoelace etc.) Through. [latin laqueus noose]
Lacerate v. (-ting) 1 mangle or tear (esp. Flesh etc.). 2 cause pain to (the feelings
etc.). laceration n. [latin lacer torn]
Lace-up —n. Shoe fastened with a lace. —attrib. Adj. (of a shoe etc.) Fastened
by a lace or laces.
Lachrymal adj. (also lacrimal) of or for tears (lacrimal duct). [latin lacrima tear]
Lack —n. (usu. Foll. By of) want, deficiency. —v. Be without or deficient in.
[low german or dutch]
Lackey n. (pl. -s) 1 servile follower; toady. 2 footman, manservant. [catalan
alacay]
Laconic adj. Terse, using few words. laconically adv. [greek lakon spartan]
Lacrosse n. Game like hockey, but with the ball carried in a crosse. [french la
the, *crosse]
Lacteal —adj. 1 of milk. 2 conveying chyle etc. —n. (in pl.) Anat. Vessels which
absorb fats. [latin lacteus: related to *lactic]
Lacuna n. (pl. Lacunae or -s) 1 gap. 2 missing portion etc., esp. In an ancient ms
etc. [latin: related to *lake1]
Ladder —n. 1 set of horizontal bars fixed between two uprights and used for
climbing up or down. 2 vertical strip of unravelled stitching in a stocking etc. 3
hierarchical structure, esp. As a means of career advancement. —v. 1 cause a
ladder in (a stocking etc.).
Lade v. (-ding; past part. Laden) 1 a load (a ship). B ship (goods). 2 (as laden
adj.) (usu. Foll. By with) loaded, burdened. [old english]
Ladle —n. Deep long-handled spoon used for serving liquids. —v. (-ling) (often
foll. By out) transfer (liquid) with a ladle. [old english]
Lady’s slipper n. Plant of the orchid family with a slipper-shaped lip on its
flowers.
Lag1 —v. (-gg-) fall behind; not keep pace. —n. Delay. [origin uncertain]
Lag2 —v. (-gg-) enclose in heat-insulating material. —n. Insulating cover. [old
norse]
Lager lout n. Colloq. Youth behaving violently etc. As a result of excessive
drinking.
Lagoon n. Stretch of salt water separated from the sea by a sandbank, reef, etc.
[latin *lacuna pool]
Lah n. (also la) mus. Sixth note of a major scale. [latin labii, word arbitrarily
taken]
Lakh n. Ind. (usu. Foll. By of) hundred thousand (rupees etc.). [hindustani lakh]
Lamb —n. 1 young sheep. 2 its flesh as food. 3 mild, gentle, or kind person. —v.
Give birth to lambs. the lamb (or lamb of god) name for christ. [old english]
Lambada n. Fast erotic brazilian dance in which couples dance with their
stomachs touching each other. [portuguese, = a beating]
Lambaste v. (-ting) (also lambast) colloq. Thrash, beat. [from *lam, *baste1]
Lambent adj. 1 (of a flame or a light) playing on a surface. 2 (of the eyes, sky,
wit, etc.) Lightly brilliant. lambency n. [latin lambo lick]
Lame —adj. 1 disabled in the foot or leg. 2 a (of an excuse etc.) Unconvincing;
feeble. B (of verse etc.) Halting. —v. (-ming) make lame; disable. lamely adv.
Lameness n. [old english]
Lament —n. 1 passionate expression of grief. 2 song etc. Of mourning etc. —v.
(also absol.) 1 express or feel grief for or about. 2 (as lamented adj.) Used to
refer to a recently dead person. lament for (or over) mourn or regret. [latin
lamentor]
Laminate —v. (-ting) 1 beat or roll into thin plates. 2 overlay with metal plates, a
plastic layer, etc. 3 split into layers. —n. Laminated structure, esp. Of layers
fixed together. —adj. In the form of thin plates. lamination n.
Lammas n. (in full lammas day) first day of august, formerly kept as harvest
festival. [old english: related to loaf1, mass2]
Lamp n. 1 device for producing a steady light, esp.: a an electric bulb, and usu.
Its holder. B an oil-lamp. C a gas-jet and mantle. 2 device producing esp.
Ultraviolet or infrared radiation. [greek lampas torch]
Lamprey n. (pl. -s) eel-like aquatic animal with a sucker mouth. [latin lampreda]
Lance —n. Long spear, esp. One used by a horseman. —v. (-cing) 1 prick or cut
open with a lancet. 2 pierce with a lance. [french from latin]
Lanceolate adj. Shaped like a lance-head, tapering at each end.
Lancer n. 1 hist. Soldier of a cavalry regiment armed with lances. 2 (in pl.) A
quadrille. B music for this.
Lancet arch n. (also lancet light or window) narrow arch or window with a
pointed head.
Land —n. 1 solid part of the earth’s surface. 2 a expanse of country; ground,
soil. B this in relation to its use, quality, etc., or as a basis for agriculture. 3
country, nation, state. 4 a landed property. B (in pl.) Estates. —v. 1 a set or go
ashore. B (often foll. By at) disembark. 2 bring (an aircraft) to the ground or
another surface. 3 alight on the ground etc. 4 bring (a fish) to land. 5 (also refl.;
often foll. By up) colloq. Bring to, reach, or find oneself in a certain situation or
place. 6 colloq. A deal (a person etc. A blow etc.). B (foll. By with) present (a
person) with (a problem, job, etc.). 7 colloq. Win or obtain (a prize, job, etc.).
how the land lies what is the state of affairs. Land on one’s feet attain a good
position, job, etc., by luck. landless adj. [old english]
Landlady n. 1 woman who owns and lets land or premises. 2 woman who keeps
a public house, boarding-house, etc.
Landlord n. 1 man who owns and lets land or premises. 2 man who keeps a
public house, boarding-house, etc.
Landslip n. = *landslide 1.
Lane n. 1 narrow road. 2 division of a road for a stream of traffic. 3 strip of track
etc. For a competitor in a race. 4 path regularly followed by a ship, aircraft, etc.
5 gangway between crowds of people. [old english]
Language laboratory n. Room equipped with tape recorders etc. For learning a
foreign language.
Languid adj. Lacking vigour; idle; inert. languidly adv. [related to *languish]
Languish v. Lose or lack vitality. languish for droop or pine for. Languish under
suffer under (depression, confinement, etc.). [latin langueo]
Lank adj. 1 (of hair, grass, etc.) Long and limp. 2 thin and tall. [old english]
Lanky adj. (-ier, -iest) ungracefully thin and long or tall. lankiness n.
Lanolin n. Fat found on sheep’s wool and used in cosmetics etc. [latin lana wool,
oleum *oil]
Lanyard n. 1 cord worn round the neck or the shoulder, to which a knife etc.
May be attached. 2 naut. Short rope or line used for securing, tightening, etc.
[french laniere, assimilated to *yard1]
Laodicean half-hearted, esp. In religion or politics. [laodicea in asia minor (rev.
3:16)]
Lap1 n. 1 front of the body from the waist to the knees of a sitting person. 2
clothing covering this. in the lap of the gods beyond human control. In the lap of
luxury in extremely luxurious surroundings. [old english]
Lap3 —v. (-pp-) 1 a (esp. Of an animal) drink with the tongue. B (usu. Foll. By
up, down) consume (liquid) greedily. C (usu. Foll. By up) consume (gossip,
praise, etc.) Greedily. 2 (of waves etc.) Ripple; make a lapping sound against
(the shore). —n. 1 a act of lapping. B amount of liquid taken up. 2 sound of
wavelets. [old english]
Lapel n. Part of either side of a coat-front etc., folded back against itself. [from
*lap1]
Lapis lazuli n. 1 blue mineral used as a gemstone. 2 bright blue pigment. 3 its
colour. [related to lapidary, azure]
Lappet n. 1 small flap or fold of a garment etc. 2 hanging piece of flesh. [from
*lap1]
Lapse —n. 1 slight error; slip of memory etc. 2 weak or careless decline into an
inferior state. 3 (foll. By of) passage of time. —v. (-sing) 1 fail to maintain a
position or standard. 2 (foll. By into) fall back into an inferior or previous state.
3 (of a right or privilege etc.) Become invalid through disuse, failure to renew,
etc. 4 (as lapsed adj.) That has lapsed. [latin lapsus from labor laps-slip]
Lapwing n. Plover with a shrill cry. [old english: related to leap, wink: from its
mode of flight]
Larboard n. & adj. Archaic = port3. [originally ladboard, perhaps ‘side on
which cargo was taken in’: related to lade]
Larceny n. (pl. -ies) theft of personal property. larcenous adj. [anglo-french from
latin latrocinium]
Usage in 1968 larceny was replaced as a statutory crime in english law by theft.
Larch n. 1 deciduous coniferous tree with bright foliage. 2 its wood. [latin larix -
icis]
Lard —n. Pig fat used in cooking etc. —v. 1 insert strips of fat or bacon in (meat
etc.) Before cooking. 2 (foll. By with) garnish (talk etc.) With strange terms.
[french = bacon, from latin lardum]
Large adj. 1 of relatively great size or extent. 2 of the larger kind (large
intestine). 3 comprehensive. 4 pursuing an activity on a large scale (large
farmer). at large 1 at liberty. 2 as a body or whole. 3 at full length, with all
details. largeness n. Largish adj. [latin largus copious]
Largesse n. (also largess) money or gifts freely given. [latin largus: related to
*large]
Largo mus. —adv. & adj. In a slow tempo and dignified style. —n. (pl. -s) largo
passage or movement. [italian, = broad]
Lark1 n. Small bird with a tuneful song, esp. The skylark. [old english]
Lark2 colloq. —n. 1 frolic; amusing incident. 2 type of activity (fed up with this
digging lark). —v. (foll. By about) play tricks. [origin uncertain]
Larva n. (pl. -vae) stage of an insect’s development between egg and pupa. larval
adj. [latin, = ghost]
Larynx n. (pl. Larynges or -xes) hollow organ in the throat holding the vocal
cords. [latin from greek]
Lasagne n. Pasta in the form of sheets. [italian pl., from latin lasanum cooking-
pot]
Lash —v. 1 make a sudden whiplike movement. 2 beat with a whip etc. 3 (often
foll. By against, down, etc.) (of rain etc.) Beat, strike. 4 criticize harshly. 5 rouse,
incite. 6 (foll. By down, together, etc.) Fasten with a cord etc. —n. 1 sharp blow
made by a whip etc. 2 flexible end of a whip. 3 eyelash. lash out 1 speak or hit
out angrily. 2 colloq. Spend money extravagantly. [imitative]
Lass n. Esp. Scot. & n.engl. Or poet. Girl. [old norse]
Lassa fever n. Acute febrile viral disease of tropical africa. [lassa in nigeria]
Lasso —n. (pl. -s or -es) rope with a noose at one end, esp. For catching cattle.
—v. (-es, -ed) catch with a lasso. [spanish lazo: related to *lace]
Last1 —adj. 1 after all others; coming at or belonging to the end. 2 most recent;
next before a specified time (last christmas). 3 only remaining (last chance). 4
(prec. By the) least likely or suitable (the last person i’d want). 5 lowest in rank
(last place). —adv. 1 after all others (esp. In comb.: last-mentioned). 2 on the
most recent occasion (when did you last see him?). 3 lastly. —n. 1 person or
thing that is last, last-mentioned, most recent, etc. 2 (prec. By the) last mention
or sight etc. (shall never hear the last of it). 3 last performance of certain acts
(breathed his last). 4 (prec. By the) the end; death (fighting to the last). at last (or
long last) in the end; after much delay. [old english, = latest]
Last3 n. Shoemaker’s model for shaping a shoe etc. stick to one’s last not
meddle in what one does not understand. [old english]
Last minute n. (also last moment) the time just before an important event (often
(with hyphen) attrib.: last-minute panic).
Last post n. Bugle-call at military funerals or as a signal to retire for the night.
Last straw n. (prec. By the) slight addition to a burden that makes it finally
unbearable.
Last trump n. (prec. By the) trumpet-blast to wake the dead on judgement day.
Last word n. (prec. By the) 1 final or definitive statement. 2 (often foll. By in)
latest fashion.
Lat. Abbr. Latitude.
Latch —n. 1 bar with a catch and lever as a fastening for a gate etc. 2 spring-
lock preventing a door from being opened from the outside without a key. —v.
Fasten with a latch. latch on (often foll. By to) colloq. 1 attach oneself (to). 2
understand. On the latch fastened by the latch (sense 1) only. [old english]
Late —adj. 1 after the due or usual time; occurring or done after the proper time.
2 a far on in the day or night or in a specified period. B far on in development. 3
flowering or ripening towards the end of the season. 4 no longer alive; no longer
having the specified status, former (my late husband; the late prime minister). 5
of recent date. —adv. 1 after the due or usual time. 2 far on in time. 3 at or till a
late hour. 4 at a late stage of development. 5 formerly but not now (late of the
scillies). late in the day colloq. At a late stage in the proceedings. lateness n. [old
english]
Lateen adj. (of a ship) rigged with a lateen sail. [french voile latine latin sail]
Lateen sail n. Triangular sail on a long yard at an angle of 45° to the mast.
Lately adv. Not long ago; recently. [old english: related to *late]
Latent adj. Existing but not developed or manifest; concealed, dormant. latency
n. [latin lateo be hidden]
n. [latin lateo be hidden]
Latent heat n. Physics heat required to convert a solid into a liquid or vapour, or
a liquid into a vapour, without change of temperature.
Lateral —adj. 1 of, at, towards, or from the side or sides. 2 descended from the
sibling of a person in direct line. —n. Lateral shoot or branch. laterally adv.
[latin latus later-side]
Latex n. (pl. -xes) 1 milky fluid of esp. The rubber tree. 2 synthetic product
resembling this. [latin, = liquid]
Lathe n. Machine for shaping wood, metal, etc., by rotating the article against
cutting tools. [origin uncertain]
Lather —n. 1 froth produced by agitating soap etc. And water. 2 frothy sweat. 3
state of agitation. —v. 1 (of soap etc.) Form a lather. 2 cover with lather. 3
colloq. Thrash. [old english]
Latin —n. Language of ancient rome and its empire. —adj. 1 of or in latin. 2 of
the countries or peoples using languages descended from latin. 3 of the roman
the countries or peoples using languages descended from latin. 3 of the roman
catholic church. [latin latium district around rome]
Latinize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) give a latin form to. latinization n.
Usage the use of latter to mean ‘last mentioned of three or more’ is considered
incorrect by some people.
Lattice window n. Window with small panes set in diagonally crossing strips of
lead.
Laud —v. Praise or extol. —n. 1 praise; hymn of praise. 2 (in pl.) The first
morning prayer of the roman catholic church. [latin laus laud-]
Usage laudable is sometimes confused with laudatory.
Laugh —v. 1 make the sounds and movements usual in expressing lively
amusement, scorn, etc. 2 express by laughing. 3 (foll. By at) ridicule, make fun
of. —n. 1 sound, act, or manner of laughing. 2 colloq. Comical thing. laugh off
get rid of (embarrassment or humiliation) by joking. Laugh up one’s sleeve
laugh secretly. [old english]
Launch1 —v. 1 set (a vessel) afloat. 2 hurl or send forth (a weapon, rocket, etc.).
3 start or set in motion (an enterprise, person, etc.). 4 formally introduce (a new
product) with publicity etc. 5 (foll. By out, into, etc.) A make a start on (an
enterprise etc.). B burst into (strong language etc.). —n. Act of launching.
[anglo-norman launcher: related to *lance]
Launch pad n. (also launching pad) platform with a supporting structure, for
launching rockets from.
Launder v. 1 wash and iron (clothes etc.). 2 colloq. Transfer (funds) to conceal
their origin. [french: related to *lave]
Laundry n. (pl. -ies) 1 a place for washing clothes etc. B firm washing clothes
etc. Commercially. 2 clothes or linen for laundering or newly laundered.
Laureate —adj. Wreathed with laurel as a mark of honour. —n. = *poet laureate.
laureateship n. [related to *laurel]
Lava n. Matter flowing from a volcano and solidifying as it cools. [latin lavo
wash]
Lavatory n. (pl. -ies) 1 receptacle for urine and faeces, usu. With a means of
disposal. 2 room or compartment containing this. [latin: related to *lava]
Lave v. (-ving) literary 1 wash, bathe. 2 (of water) wash against; flow along.
[latin lavo wash]
Lavender n. 1 a evergreen shrub with purple aromatic flowers. B its flowers and
stalks dried and used to scent linen etc. 2 pale mauve colour. [latin lavandula]
Lawcourt n. Court of law.
Lawful adj. Conforming with or recognized by law; not illegal. lawfully adv.
Lawfulness n.
Law lord n. Member of the house of lords qualified to perform its legal work.
Lawmaker n. Legislator.
Lawn tennis n. Tennis played with a soft ball on outdoor grass or a hard court.
Lawrencium n. Artificially made transuranic metallic element. [lawrence, name
of a physicist]
Lax adj. 1 lacking care or precision. 2 not strict. laxity n. Laxly adv. Laxness n.
[latin laxus loose]
Lay1 —v. (past and past part. Laid) 1 place on a surface, esp. Horizontally or in
the proper or specified place. 2 put or bring into the required position or state
(lay carpet). 3 make by laying (lay foundations). 4 (often absol.) (of a hen bird)
produce (an egg). 5 cause to subside or lie flat. 6 (usu. Foll. By on); attribute or
impute (blame etc.). 7 prepare or make ready (a plan or trap). 8 prepare (a table)
for a meal. 9 arrange the material for (a fire). 10 put down as a wager; stake. 11
(foll. By with) coat or strew (a surface). 12 slang offens. Have sexual intercourse
with (esp. A woman). —n. 1 way, position, or direction in which something lies.
2 slang offens. Partner (esp. Female) in, or act of, sexual intercourse. lay about
one hit out on all sides. Lay aside 1 put to one side. 2 cease to consider. Lay at
the door of impute to. Lay bare expose, reveal. Lay claim to claim as one’s own.
Lay down 1 put on a flat surface. 2 give up (an office). 3 formulate (a rule). 4
store (wine) for maturing. 5 sacrifice (one’s life). Lay (one’s) hands on obtain,
locate. Lay hands on seize or attack. Lay hold of seize. Lay in provide oneself
with a stock of. Lay into colloq. Punish or scold harshly. Lay it on thick (or with
a trowel) colloq. Flatter or exaggerate grossly. Lay low overthrow or humble.
Lay off 1 discharge (unneeded workers) temporarily; make redundant. 2 colloq.
Desist. Lay on 1 provide. 2 impose. 3 inflict (blows). 4 spread on (paint etc.).
Desist. Lay on 1 provide. 2 impose. 3 inflict (blows). 4 spread on (paint etc.).
Lay open 1 break the skin of. 2 (foll. By to) expose (to criticism etc.). Lay out 1
spread out, expose to view. 2 prepare (a corpse) for burial. 3 colloq. Knock
unconscious. 4 arrange (grounds etc.) According to a design.
Lay2 adj. 1 a non-clerical. B not ordained into the clergy. 2 a not professionally
qualified. B of or done by such persons. [greek laos people]
Lay-by n. (pl. -bys) area at the side of a road where vehicles may stop.
Layette n. Set of clothing etc. For a newborn child. [french from dutch]
Lay figure n. 1 jointed figure of a human body used by artists for arranging
drapery on etc. 2 unrealistic character in a novel etc. [dutch led joint]
Layman n. (fem. Laywoman) 1 non-ordained member of a church. 2 person
without professional or specialized knowledge.
Layout n. 1 way in which land, a building, printed matter, etc., is arranged or set
out. 2 something arranged in a particular way; display.
Laze —v. (-zing) 1 spend time idly. 2 (foll. By away) pass (time) idly. —n. Spell
of lazing. [back-formation from *lazy]
Lazy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 disinclined to work, doing little work. 2 of or inducing
idleness. lazily adv. Laziness n. [perhaps from low german]
L.c. Abbr. 1 = *loc. Cit. 2 lower case.
Lcd abbr. 1 liquid crystal display. 2 lowest (or least) common denominator.
Leach v. 1 make (a liquid) percolate through some material. 2 subject (bark, ore,
ash, or soil) to the action of percolating fluid. 3 (foll. By away, out) remove
(soluble matter) or be removed in this way. [old english]
Lead1 —v. (past and past part. Led) 1 cause to go with one, esp. By guiding or
going in front. 2 a direct the actions or opinions of. B (often foll. By to, or to +
infin.) Guide by persuasion or example (what led you to think that). 3 (also
absol.) Provide access to; bring to a certain position (gate leads you into a field;
road leads to lincoln). 4 pass or go through (a life etc. Of a specified kind). 5 a
have the first place in. B (absol.) Go first; be ahead in a race etc. C (absol.) Be
pre-eminent in some field. 6 be in charge of (leads a team). 7 (also absol.) Play
(a card) or a card of (a particular suit) as first player in a round. 8 (foll. By to)
result in. 9 (foll. By with) (of a newspaper or news broadcast) have as its main
story (led with the royal wedding). 10 (foll. By through) make (a liquid, strip of
material, etc.) Pass through a certain course. —n. 1 guidance given by going in
front; example. 2 a leading place (take the lead). B amount by which a
competitor is ahead of the others. 3 clue. 4 strap etc. For leading a dog etc. 5
conductor (usu. A wire) conveying electric current to an appliance. 6 a chief part
in a play etc. B person playing this. C (attrib.) Chief performer or instrument of a
specified type (lead guitar). 7 cards a act or right of playing first. B card led. lead
by the nose cajole into compliance. Lead off begin. Lead on entice dishonestly.
Lead up the garden path colloq. Mislead. Lead up to form a preparation for;
direct conversation towards. [old english]
Lead2 —n. 1 heavy bluish-grey soft metallic element. 2 a graphite. B thin length
of this in a pencil. 3 lump of lead used in sounding water. 4 (in pl.) A strips of
lead covering a roof. B piece of lead-covered roof. 5 (in pl.) Lead frames holding
the glass of a lattice etc. 6 blank space between lines of print. —v. 1 cover,
weight, or frame with lead. 2 space (printed matter) with leads. [old english]
Leaflet —n. 1 sheet of paper, pamphlet, etc. Giving information. 2 young leaf. 3
bot. Division of a compound leaf. —v. (-t-) distribute leaflets (to).
League2 n. Hist. Varying measure of distance, usu. About three miles. [latin
from celtic]
Leak —n. 1 a hole through which matter passes accidentally in or out. B matter
passing through thus. C act of passing through thus. 2 a similar escape of
passing through thus. C act of passing through thus. 2 a similar escape of
electrical charge. B charge that escapes. 3 disclosure of secret information. —v.
1 a pass through a leak. B lose or admit through a leak. 2 disclose (secret
information). 3 (often foll. By out) become known. have (or take) a leak slang
urinate. leaky adj. (-ier, -iest). [low german or dutch]
Lean1 —v. (past and past part. Leaned or leant) 1 (often foll. By across, back,
over, etc.) Be or place in a sloping position; incline from the perpendicular. 2
(foll. By against, on, upon) (cause to) rest for support against etc. 3 (foll. By on,
upon) rely on. 4 (foll. By to, towards) be inclined or partial to. —n. Deviation
from the perpendicular; inclination. lean on colloq. Put pressure on (a person) to
act in a certain way. Lean over backwards see *backwards. [old english]
Lean2 —adj. 1 (of a person or animal) thin; having no superfluous fat. 2 (of
meat) containing little fat. 3 meagre. —n. Lean part of meat. leanness n. [old
english]
Lean-to n. (pl. -tos) building with its roof leaning against a larger building or a
wall.
Leap —v. (past and past part. Leaped or leapt) jump or spring forcefully. —n.
Forceful jump. by leaps and bounds with startlingly rapid progress. Leap in the
Forceful jump. by leaps and bounds with startlingly rapid progress. Leap in the
dark daring step or enterprise. [old english]
Leap-frog —n. Game in which players vault with parted legs over others
bending down. —v. (-gg-) 1 perform such a vault (over). 2 overtake alternately.
Leap year n. Year with 366 days (including 29th feb. As an intercalary day).
Learn v. (past and past part. Learned or learnt) 1 gain knowledge of or skill in. 2
commit to memory. 3 (foll. By of) be told about. 4 (foll. By that, how, etc.)
Become aware of. 5 receive instruction. 6 archaic or dial. Teach. [old english]
Learner n. 1 person who is learning a subject or skill. 2 (in full learner driver)
person who is learning to drive but has not yet passed a driving test.
Lease —n. Contract by which the owner of property allows another to use it for
a specified time, usu. In return for payment. —v. (-sing) grant or take on lease.
new lease of (us on) life improved prospect of living, or of use after repair.
[anglo-french lesser let, from latin laxo loosen]
Leash —n. Strap for holding a dog etc.; lead. —v. 1 put a leash on. 2 restrain.
straining at the leash eager to begin. [french lesse: related to *lease]
Least —adj. 1 smallest, slightest. 2 (of a species etc.) Very small. —n. The least
amount. —adv. In the least degree. at least 1 at any rate. 2 (also at the least) not
less than. In the least (or the least) (usu. With neg.) At all (not in the least
offended). To say the least putting the case moderately. [old english, superlative
of *less]
Leather —n. 1 material made from the skin of an animal by tanning etc. 2 piece
of leather for polishing with. 3 leather part(s) of a thing. 4 slang cricket-ball or
football. 5 (in pl.) Leather clothes. —v. 1 beat, thrash. 2 cover with leather. 3
polish or wipe with a leather. [old english]
Leather-jacket n. Crane-fly grub with a tough skin.
Leave1 v. (-ving; past and past part. Left) 1 a go away from. B (often foll. By
for) depart. 2 cause to or let remain; depart without taking. 3 (also absol.) Cease
to reside at or belong to or work for. 4 abandon; cease to live with (one’s family
etc.). 5 have remaining after one’s death. 6 bequeath. 7 (foll. By to + infin.)
Allow (a person or thing) to do something independently. 8 (foll. By to) commit
to another person etc. (leave that to me). 9 a abstain from consuming or dealing
with. B (in passive; often foll. By over) remain over. 10 a deposit or entrust (a
thing) to be attended to in one’s absence (left a message with his secretary). B
depute (a person) to perform a function in one’s absence. 11 allow to remain or
cause to be in a specified state or position (left the door open; left me exhausted).
leave alone refrain from disturbing, not interfere with. Leave a person cold not
impress or excite a person. Leave off 1 come to or make an end. 2 discontinue.
Leave out omit; exclude. [old english]
Leaved adj. Having a leaf or leaves, esp. (in comb.) Of a specified kind or
number (four-leaved clover).
Lech colloq. —v. (often foll. By after) lust. —n. 1 lecherous man. 2 lust. [back-
formation from *lecher]
Lectern n. 1 stand for holding a book in a church etc. 2 similar stand for a
lecturer etc. [latin lectrum from lego read]
Lecture —n. 1 talk giving specified information to a class etc. 2 long serious
speech, esp. As a reprimand. —v. (-ring) 1 (often foll. By on) deliver lecture(s).
2 talk seriously or reprovingly to. lectureship n. [latin: related to *lectern]
Lederhosen n.pl. Leather shorts as worn by some men in bavaria etc. [german, =
leather trousers]
Lee n. 1 shelter given by a close object (under the lee of). 2 (in full lee side) side
away from the wind. [old english]
Leek n. 1 plant of the onion family with flat leaves forming a cylindrical bulb,
used as food. 2 this as a welsh national emblem. [old english]
Leer —v. Look slyly, lasciviously, or maliciously. —n. Leering look. [perhaps
from obsolete leer cheek]
Leery adj. (-ier, -iest) slang 1 knowing, sly. 2 (foll. By of) wary.
Leeward —adj. & adv. On or towards the side sheltered from the wind. —n.
Leeward region or side.
Left1 —adj. 1 on or towards the west side of the human body, or of any object,
when facing north. 2 (also left) polit. Of the left. —adv. On or to the left side. —
n. 1 left-hand part, region, or direction. 2 boxing a left hand. B blow with this. 3
(often left) group or section favouring socialism; socialists collectively. [old
english, originally = ‘weak, worthless’]
Left-hand attrib. Adj. 1 on or towards the left side of a person or thing. 2 done
Left-hand attrib. Adj. 1 on or towards the left side of a person or thing. 2 done
with the left hand. 3 (of a screw) = *left-handed 4b.
Left-handed adj. 1 naturally using the left hand for writing etc. 2 (of a tool etc.)
For use by the left hand. 3 (of a blow) struck with the left hand. 4 a turning to the
left. B (of a screw) turned anticlockwise to tighten. 5 awkward, clumsy. 6 a (of a
compliment) ambiguous. B of doubtful sincerity. left-handedly adv. Left-
handedness n.
Leftover —n. (usu. In pl.) Surplus items (esp. Of food). —attrib. Adj. Remaining
over, surplus.
Leftward —adv. (also leftwards) towards the left. —adj. Going towards or
facing the left.
Left wing —n. 1 more socialist section of a political party or system. 2 left side
of a football etc. Team on the field. —adj. (leftwing) socialist, radical. left-
winger n.
Lefty n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 polit. Often derog. Left-winger. 2 left-handed person.
Leg n. 1 each of the limbs on which a person or animal walks and stands. 2 leg
of an animal or bird as food. 3 part of a garment covering a leg. 4 support of a
chair, table, etc. 5 cricket the half of the field (divided lengthways) in which the
batsman’s feet are placed. 6 a section of a journey. B section of a relay race. C
stage in a competition. leg it (-gg-) colloq. Walk or run hard. Not have a leg to
stand on be unable to support one’s argument by facts or sound reasons. On
one’s last legs near death or the end of usefulness etc. legged adj. (also in
comb.). [old norse]
Legacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 gift left in a will. 2 thing handed down by a predecessor.
[latin lego bequeath]
Legalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make lawful. 2 bring into harmony with
the law. legalization n.
Legation n. 1 diplomatic minister and his or her staff. 2 this minister’s official
residence. [latin: related to *legate]
Legato mus. —adv. & adj. In a smooth flowing manner. —n. (pl. -s) 1 legato
passage. 2 legato playing. [italian, = bound, from ligo bind]
Leg before —adj. & adv. (in full leg before wicket) cricket (of a batsman) out
because of stopping the ball, other than with the bat or hand, which would
otherwise have hit the wicket. —n. Such a dismissal.
Leg-bye n. Cricket run scored from a ball that touches the batsman.
Leger line n. Mus. Short line added for notes above or below the range of a staff.
[var. Of *ledger]
Legible adj. Clear enough to read; readable. legibility n. Legibly adv. [latin lego
read]
Legion —n. 1 division of 3,000–6,000 men in the ancient roman army. 2 large
organized body. —predic. Adj. Great in number (his good works were legion).
[latin legio -onis]
Legislation n. 1 law-making. 2 laws collectively. [latin lex legis law, latus past
part. Of fero carry]
Legitimate adj. 1 (of a child) born of parents married to each other. 2 lawful,
proper, regular. 3 logically acceptable. legitimacy n. Legitimately adv. [latin
legitimo legitimize, from lex legis law]
Leg-of-mutton sleeve n. Sleeve which is full and loose on the upper arm but
close-fitting on the forearm.
Leguminous adj. Of the family of plants with seeds in pods (e.g. Peas and
beans).
Leg warmer n. Either of a pair of tubular knitted garments covering the leg from
ankle to knee or thigh.
Lemming n. Small arctic rodent reputed to rush into the sea and drown during
migration. [norwegian]
Lemon n. 1 a yellow oval citrus fruit with acidic juice. B tree bearing it. 2 pale
Lemon n. 1 a yellow oval citrus fruit with acidic juice. B tree bearing it. 2 pale
yellow colour. 3 colloq. Person or thing regarded as a failure. lemony adj.
[arabic laimun]
Lemonade n. 1 drink made from lemon juice. 2 synthetic substitute for this.
Lemon curd n. (also lemon cheese) creamy conserve made from lemons.
Lemon sole n. (pl. Same or -s) flat-fish of the plaice family. [french limande]
Lend v. (past and past part. Lent) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) grant (to a person) the use
of (a thing) on the understanding that it or its equivalent shall be returned. 2
allow the use of (money) at interest. 3 bestow or contribute (lends a certain
charm). lend an ear listen. Lend a hand help. Lend itself to (of a thing) be
suitable for. lender n. [old english: related to *loan]
Lengthy adj. (-ier, -iest) of unusual or tedious length. lengthily adv. Lengthiness
n.
Lenient adj. Merciful, not severe. lenience n. Leniency n. Leniently adv. [latin
lenis gentle]
Lens n. 1 piece of a transparent substance with one or (usu.) Both sides curved
for concentrating or dispersing light-rays esp. In optical instruments. 2
combination of lenses used in photography. 3 transparent substance behind the
iris of the eye. 4 = *contact lens. [latin lens lent-lentil (from the similarity of
shape)]
Lent n. Eccl. Period of fasting and penitence from ash wednesday to holy
saturday. lenten adj. [old english, = spring]
Lentil n. 1 pea-like plant. 2 its seed, esp. Used as food. [latin lens]
Leo n. (pl. -s) 1 constellation and fifth sign of the zodiac (the lion). 2 person
born when the sun is in this sign. [latin]
Leopard n. Large african or asian animal of the cat family with a black-spotted
yellowish or all black coat, panther. [greek leon lion, pardos panther]
Leper n. 1 person with leprosy. 2 person who is shunned. [greek lepros scaly]
Leprosy n. Contagious disease that damages the skin and nerves. leprous adj.
[related to *leper]
-less suffix forming adjectives and adverbs: 1 from nouns, meaning ‘not having,
without, free from’ (powerless). 2 from verbs, meaning ‘not accessible to,
affected by, or performing the action of the verb’ (fathomless; ceaseless). [old
english]
Lessee n. (often foll. By of) person holding a property by lease. [french: related
to *lease]
Lesser adj. (usu. Attrib.) Not so great as the other(s) (lesser evil; lesser mortals).
Lesson n. 1 spell of teaching. 2 (in pl.; foll. By in) systematic instruction. 3 thing
learnt by a pupil. 4 experience that serves to warn or encourage (let that be a
lesson). 5 passage from the bible read aloud during a church service. [french
leçon from latin lego lect-]
Lest conj. Formal 1 in order that not, for fear that (lest he forget). 2 that (afraid
lest we should be late). [old english: related to *less]
Let1 —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Let) 1 a allow to, not prevent or forbid. B
cause to (let me know). 2 (foll. By into) allow to enter. 3 grant the use of (rooms,
land, etc.) For rent or hire. 4 allow or cause (liquid or air) to escape (let blood). 5
aux. Supplying the first and third persons of the imperative in exhortations (let
us pray), commands (let it be done at once; let there be light), assumptions, etc.
(let ab equal cd). —n. Act of letting a house, room, etc. let alone 1 not to
mention, far less or more (hasn’t got a television, let alone a video). 2 = let be.
Let be not interfere with, attend to, or do. Let down 1 lower. 2 fail to support or
satisfy, disappoint. 3 lengthen (a garment). 4 deflate (a tyre). Let down gently
reject or disappoint without humiliating. Let drop (or fall) drop (esp. A word or
hint) intentionally or by accident. Let go 1 release. 2 a (often foll. By of) lose
one’s hold. B lose hold of. Let oneself go 1 act spontaneously. 2 neglect one’s
appearance or habits. Let in 1 allow to enter (let the dog in; let in a flood of
light). 2 (foll. By for) involve (a person, often oneself) in loss or difficulty. 3
(foll. By on) allow (a person) to share a secret, privileges, etc. Let loose release,
unchain. Let off 1 a fire (a gun). B explode (a bomb). 2 allow or cause (steam
etc.) To escape. 3 a not punish or compel. B (foll. By with) punish lightly.
Lcd abbr. 1 liquid crystal display. 2 lowest (or least) common denominator.
Let2 —n. Obstruction of a ball or player in tennis etc., requiring the ball to be
served again. —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Letted or let) archaic hinder, obstruct.
without let or hindrance unimpeded. [old english: related to *late]
Let-down n. Disappointment.
Lethal adj. Causing or sufficient to cause death. lethally adv. [latin letum death]
Letter —n. 1 character representing one or more of the sounds used in speech. 2
a written or printed message, usu. Sent in an envelope by post. B (in pl.)
Addressed legal or formal document. 3 precise terms of a statement, the strict
verbal interpretation (letter of the law). 4 (in pl.) A literature. B acquaintance
with books, erudition. —v. 1 inscribe letters on. 2 classify with letters. to the
letter with adherence to every detail. [french from latin littera]
letter with adherence to every detail. [french from latin littera]
Letter of credit n. Letter from a bank authorizing the bearer to draw money from
another bank.
Lettuce n. Plant with crisp leaves used in salads. [latin lactuca from lac lact-
milk]
Leucocyte n. White blood cell.
Level crossing n. Crossing of a railway and a road, or two railways, at the same
level.
Lever —n. 1 bar resting on a pivot, used to prise. 2 bar pivoted about a fulcrum
(fixed point) which can be acted upon by a force (effort) in order to move a load.
3 projecting handle moved to operate a mechanism. 4 means of exerting moral
pressure. —v. 1 use a lever. 2 (often foll. By away, out, up, etc.) Lift, move, etc.
With a lever. [latin levo raise]
Usage the pronunciation is american because the practice takes place mainly in
the us.
Leveret n. Young hare, esp. One in its first year. [latin lepus lepor-hare]
Levis n.pl. (also levi’s propr.) Type of (orig. Blue) denim jeans or overalls
reinforced with rivets. [levi strauss, name of the manufacturer]
Levitate v. (-ting) 1 rise and float in the air (esp. With reference to spiritualism).
2 cause to do this. levitation n. [latin levis light, after *gravitate]
Levy —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 impose or collect compulsorily (payment etc.). 2 enrol
(troops etc.). 3 wage (war). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 a collecting of a contribution, tax,
etc. B contribution etc. Levied. 2 a act of enrolling troops etc. B (in pl.) Troops
enrolled. [latin levo raise]
Leyden jar n. Early capacitor consisting of a glass jar with layers of metal foil on
the outside and inside. [leyden (now leiden) in holland]
Li symb. Lithium.
Liable predic. Adj. 1 legally bound. 2 (foll. By to) subject to. 3 (foll. By to +
infin.) Under an obligation. 4 (foll. By to) exposed or open to (something
undesirable). 5 (foll. By to + infin.) Apt, likely (it is liable to rain). 6 (foll. By
for) answerable. [french lier bind, from latin ligo]
Liberal —adj. 1 abundant, ample. 2 giving freely, generous. 3 open-minded. 4
not strict or rigorous. 5 for the general broadening of the mind (liberal studies). 6
a favouring moderate political and social reform. B (liberal) of or characteristic
of liberals. —n. 1 person of liberal views. 2 (liberal) supporter or member of a
liberal party. liberalism n. Liberality n. Liberally adv. [latin liber free]
Usage in the uk the name liberal was discontinued in official political use in
1988 when the party regrouped to form the social and liberal democrats. In 1989
this name was officially replaced by liberal democratic party.
Liberal democrat n. Member of the party formed from the liberal party and the
social democratic party.
Liberalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make or become more liberal or less
strict. liberalization n.
Liberate v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By from) set free. 2 free (a country etc.) From an
oppressor or enemy. 3 (often as liberated adj.) Free (a person) from rigid social
conventions. liberation n. Liberator n. [latin liberare liberat-from liber free]
Liberty n. (pl. -ies) 1 freedom from captivity etc. 2 right or power to do as one
pleases. 3 (usu. In pl.) Right or privilege granted by authority. at liberty 1 free. 2
(foll. By to + infin.) Permitted. Take liberties (often foll. By with) behave in an
unduly familiar manner. [latin: related to *liberal]
Libido n. (pl. -s) psychic drive or energy, esp. That associated with sexual desire.
libidinal adj. [latin, = lust]
Libra n. 1 constellation and seventh sign of the zodiac (the scales). 2 person born
when the sun is in this sign. [latin, = pound weight]
Library n. (pl. -ies) 1 collection of books. 2 room or building where these are
kept. 3 a similar collection of films, records, computer routines, etc. B place
where these are kept. 4 set of books issued in similar bindings. [latin liber book]
Libretto n. (pl. -ti or -s) text of an opera etc. librettist n. [italian, = little book]
License2 v. (-sing) 1 grant a licence to. 2 authorize the use of (premises) for a
certain purpose.
Lick —v. 1 pass the tongue over. 2 bring into a specified condition by licking
(licked it all up; licked it clean). 3 (of a flame etc.) Play lightly over. 4 colloq.
Defeat. 5 colloq. Thrash. —n. 1 act of licking with the tongue. 2 colloq. Fast
pace (at a lick). 3 smart blow. lick a person’s boots be servile. Lick into shape
make presentable or efficient. Lick one’s lips (or chops) look forward with
relish. Lick one’s wounds be in retirement regaining strength etc. After defeat.
[old english]
Lid n. 1 hinged or removable cover, esp. For a container. 2 = *eyelid. put the lid
on colloq. 1 be the culmination of. 2 put a stop to. lidded adj. (also in comb.).
[old english]
Lie1 —v. (lies; lying; past lay; past part. Lain) 1 be in or assume a horizontal
position on a surface; be at rest on something. 2 (of a thing) rest flat on a surface.
3 remain undisturbed or undiscussed etc. (let matters lie). 4 a be kept, remain, or
be in a specified state or place (lie hidden; lie in wait; books lay unread). B (of
abstract things) exist; be in a certain position or relation (answer lies in
education). 5 a be situated (village lay to the east). B be spread out to view. —n.
Way, direction, or position in which a thing lies. lie down assume a lying
position; have a short rest. Lie down under accept (an insult etc.) Without
protest. Lie in stay in bed late in the morning. Lie low 1 keep quiet or unseen. 2
be discreet about one’s intentions. Lie with be the responsibility of (a person)
(decision lies with you). Take lying down (usu. With neg.) Accept (an insult
etc.) Without protest. [old english]
Usage the transitive use of lie, meaning lay, as in lie her on the bed, is incorrect
in standard english.
Lie2 —n. 1 intentionally false statement (tell a lie). 2 something that deceives.
—v. (lies, lied, lying) 1 tell a lie or lies. 2 (of a thing) be deceptive. give the lie
to show the falsity of (a supposition etc.). [old english]
Lied n. (pl. Lieder) german song, esp. Of the romantic period. [german]
Liege usu. Hist. —adj. Entitled to receive, or bound to give, feudal service or
allegiance. —n. 1 (in full liege lord) feudal superior or sovereign. 2 (usu. In pl.)
Vassal, subject. [medieval latin laeticus, probably from germanic]
Lien n. Law right to hold another’s property until a debt on it is paid. [latin ligo
bind]
bind]
Lieu n. in lieu 1 instead. 2 (foll. By of) in the place of. [latin locus place]
Lieutenant n. 1 a army officer next in rank below captain. B naval officer next in
rank below lieutenant commander. 2 deputy. lieutenancy n. (pl. -ies). [french:
related to *lieu place, *tenant holder]
Life n. (pl. Lives) 1 capacity for growth, functional activity, and continual
change until death. 2 living things and their activity (insect life; is there life on
mars?). 3 a period during which life lasts, or the period from birth to the present
time or from the present time to death (have done it all my life; will regret it all
my life). B duration of a thing’s existence or ability to function. 4 a person’s
state of existence as a living individual (sacrificed their lives). B living person
(many lives were lost). 5 a individual’s actions or fortunes; manner of existence
(start a new life). B particular aspect of this (private life). 6 business and
pleasures of the world (in paris you really see life). 7 energy, liveliness (full of
life). 8 biography. 9 colloq. = *life sentence. for dear (or one’s) life as if or in
order to escape death. For life for the rest of one’s life. Not on your life colloq.
Most certainly not. [old english]
Lifeboat n. 1 special boat for rescuing those in distress at sea. 2 ship’s small boat
for use in emergency.
Life insurance n. Insurance for a sum to be paid after a set period or on the death
of the insured person if earlier.
Life-size adj. (also -sized) of the same size as the person or thing represented.
Lift —v. 1 (often foll. By up, off, out, etc.) Raise or remove to a higher position.
2 go up; be raised; yield to an upward force. 3 give an upward direction to (the
eyes or face). 4 elevate to a higher plane of thought or feeling. 5 (of fog etc.)
Rise, disperse. 6 remove (a barrier or restriction). 7 transport (supplies, troops,
etc.) By air. 8 colloq. A steal. B plagiarize (a passage of writing etc.). 9 dig up
(esp. Potatoes etc.). —n. 1 lifting or being lifted. 2 ride in another person’s
vehicle (gave them a lift).
Ligament n. Band of tough fibrous tissue linking bones. [latin ligo bind]
Ligature —n. 1 tie or bandage. 2 mus. Slur, tie. 3 two or more letters joined, e.g.
Æ. 4 bond; thing that unites. —v. (-ring) bind or connect with a ligature. [latin
ligo bind]
Usage sense 3 of this word is sometimes confused with digraph, which means
‘two separate letters together representing one sound’.
Light1 —n. 1 the natural agent (electromagnetic radiation) that stimulates sight
and makes things visible. 2 the medium or condition of the space in which this is
present (just enough light to see). 3 appearance of brightness (saw a distant
light). 4 source of light, e.g. The sun, a lamp, fire, etc. 5 (often in pl.) Traffic-
light. 6 a flame or spark serving to ignite. B device producing this. 7 aspect in
which a thing is regarded (appeared in a new light). 8 a mental illumination. B
spiritual illumination by divine truth. 9 vivacity etc. In a person’s face, esp. In
the eyes. 10 eminent person (leading light). 11 bright parts of a picture etc. 12
window or opening in a wall to let light in. —v. (past lit; past part. Lit or lighted)
(attrib.) 1 set burning; begin to burn. 2 (often foll. By up) provide with light or
lighting; make prominent by means of light. 3 show (a person) the way or
surroundings with a light. 4 (usu. Foll. By up) (of the face or eyes) brighten with
animation, pleasure, etc. —adj. 1 well provided with light; not dark. 2 (of a
colour) pale (light blue; light-blue ribbon). bring (or come) to light reveal or be
revealed. In a good (or bad) light giving a favourable (or unfavourable)
impression. In the light of taking account of. Light up 1 colloq. Begin to smoke a
cigarette etc. 2 = sense 2 of v. 3 = sense 4 of v. lightish adj. [old english]
Light-bulb n. Glass bulb containing an inert gas and a metal filament, providing
light when an electric current is passed through it.
Lighten1 v. 1 a make or become lighter in weight. B reduce the weight or load
of. 2 bring relief to (the mind etc.). 3 mitigate (a penalty).
Lighter-than-air attrib. Adj. (of an aircraft) weighing less than the air it
displaces.
Light heavyweight n. 1 weight in certain sports between middleweight and
heavyweight, in amateur boxing 75–81 kg: also called *cruiserweight. 2
sportsman of this weight.
Lighthouse n. Tower etc. Containing a beacon light to warn or guide ships at sea.
Lighting-up time n. Time after which vehicles must show the prescribed lights.
Light meter n. Instrument for measuring the intensity of the light, esp. To show
the correct photographic exposure.
Lights n.pl. Lungs of sheep, pigs, etc., used as a food esp. For pets. [from light2:
cf. lung]
Light-year n. Distance light travels in one year, nearly 6 million million miles.
Ligneous adj. 1 (of a plant) woody. 2 of the nature of wood. [latin lignum wood]
Like1 —adj. (more like, most like) 1 a having some or all of the qualities of
another, each other, or an original. B resembling in some way, such as (good
writers like dickens). 2 characteristic of (not like them to be late). 3 in a suitable
state or mood for (felt like working; felt like a cup of tea). —prep. In the manner
of; to the same degree as (drink like a fish; acted like an idiot). —adv. 1 slang so
to speak (did a quick getaway, like). 2 colloq. Likely, probably (as like as not).
—conj. Colloq. 1 as (cannot do it like you do). 2 as if (ate like they were
starving). —n. 1 counterpart; equal; similar person or thing. 2 (prec. By the)
thing or things of the same kind (will never do the like again). and the like and
similar things. Like anything colloq. Very much, vigorously. The likes of colloq.
A person such as. More like it colloq. Nearer what is required. What is he (or it
etc.) Like? What sort of person is he (or thing is it etc.)? [old english]
Like2 —v. (-king) 1 find agreeable or enjoyable. 2 a choose to have; prefer (like
my tea weak). B wish for or be inclined to (would like a nap; should like to
come). —n. (in pl.) Things one likes or prefers. [old english]
Like2 —v. (-king) 1 find agreeable or enjoyable. 2 a choose to have; prefer (like
my tea weak). B wish for or be inclined to (would like a nap; should like to
come). —n. (in pl.) Things one likes or prefers. [old english]
-like comb. Form forming adjectives from nouns, meaning ‘similar to,
characteristic of’ (doglike; shell-like; tortoise-like).
Usage in formations not generally current the hyphen should be used. It may be
Usage in formations not generally current the hyphen should be used. It may be
omitted when the first element is of one syllable, unless it ends in -l.
Likely —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 probable; such as may well happen or be true. 2 to be
reasonably expected (not likely to come now). 3 promising; apparently suitable
(a likely spot). —adv. Probably. not likely! Colloq. Certainly not, i refuse. [old
norse: related to *like1]
Liken v. (foll. By to) point out the resemblance of (a person or thing to another).
[from *like1]
Liking n. 1 what one likes; one’s taste (is it to your liking?). 2 (foll. By for)
regard or fondness; taste or fancy.
Lilac —n. 1 shrub with fragrant pinkish-violet or white blossoms. 2 pale pinkish-
violet colour. —adj. Of this colour. [persian]
Lilo n. (also li-lo propr.) (pl. -s) type of inflatable mattress. [from lie low]
Lilt —n. 1 light springing rhythm. 2 tune with this. —v. (esp. As lilting adj.)
Speak etc. With a lilt; have a lilt. [origin unknown]
Lily n. (pl. -ies) 1 bulbous plant with large trumpet-shaped flowers on a tall
stem. 2 heraldic fleur-de-lis. [latin lilium]
Lily white adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) pure white.
Limb1 n. 1 arm, leg, or wing. 2 large branch of a tree. 3 branch of a cross. out on
a limb isolated. [old english]
a limb isolated. [old english]
Limb2 n. Specified edge of the sun, moon, etc. [latin limbus hem, border]
Limber1 —adj. 1 lithe. 2 flexible. —v. (usu. Foll. By up) 1 make (oneself or a
part of the body etc.) Supple. 2 warm up in preparation for athletic etc. Activity.
[origin uncertain]
Limber2 —n. Detachable front part of a gun-carriage. —v. Attach a limber to.
[perhaps from latin limo -onis shaft]
Limber2 —n. Detachable front part of a gun-carriage. —v. Attach a limber to.
[perhaps from latin limo -onis shaft]
Limbo1 n. (pl. -s) 1 (in some christian beliefs) supposed abode of the souls of
unbaptized infants, and of the just who died before christ. 2 intermediate state or
condition of awaiting a decision etc. [latin in limbo: related to *limb2]
Limbo2 n. (pl. -s) w. Indian dance in which the dancer bends backwards to pass
under a horizontal bar which is progressively lowered. [w. Indian word, perhaps
= *limber1]
Lime1 —n. 1 (in full quicklime) white substance (calcium oxide) obtained by
heating limestone. 2 (in full slaked lime) calcium hydroxide obtained by reacting
quicklime with water, used as a fertilizer and in making mortar. —v. (-ming)
treat with lime. limy adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english]
Lime2 n. 1 a fruit like a lemon but green, rounder, smaller, and more acid. B tree
Lime2 n. 1 a fruit like a lemon but green, rounder, smaller, and more acid. B tree
which produces this fruit. 2 (in full lime-green) yellowish-green colour. [french
from arabic]
Lime3 n. (in full lime-tree) tree with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant creamy
blossom. [alteration of line = old english lind = *linden]
Limelight n. 1 intense white light used formerly in theatres. 2 (prec. By the) the
glare of publicity.
Limey n. (pl. -s) us slang offens. British person (orig. A sailor) or ship. [from
*lime2, because of the former enforced consumption of lime juice in the british
navy]
Limit —n. 1 point, line, or level beyond which something does not or may not
extend or pass. 2 greatest or smallest amount permissible. —v. (-t-) 1 set or serve
as a limit to. 2 (foll. By to) restrict. be the limit colloq. Be intolerable. Within
limits with some degree of freedom. limitless adj. [latin limes limit-boundary,
frontier]
Limitation n. 1 limiting or being limited. 2 limit (of ability etc.) (often in pl.:
know one’s limitations). 3 limiting circumstance.
Limited adj. 1 confined within limits. 2 not great in scope or talents. 3 restricted
to a few examples (limited edition). 4 (after a company name) being a limited
company.
Limited company n. (also limited liability company) company whose owners are
legally responsible only to a specified amount for its debts.
Limp1 —v. Walk or proceed lamely or awkwardly. —n. Lame walk. [perhaps
from obsolete limphalt: related to *halt2]
Limp2 adj. 1 not stiff or firm. 2 without energy or will. limply adv. Limpness n.
[perhaps from *limp1]
Limpet n. Marine gastropod with a conical shell, sticking tightly to rocks. [old
english]
english]
Linctus n. Syrupy medicine, esp. A soothing cough mixture. [latin lingo lick]
Line1 —n. 1 continuous mark made on a surface. 2 similar mark, esp. A furrow
or wrinkle. 3 use of lines in art. 4 a straight or curved continuous extent of length
without breadth. B track of a moving point. 5 contour or outline (has a slimming
line). 6 a curve connecting all points having a specified common property. B (the
line) the equator. 7 a limit or boundary.
Line2 v. (-ning) 1 cover the inside surface of (a garment, box, etc.) With a layer
of usu. Different material. 2 serve as a lining for. 3 colloq. Fill, esp. Plentifully.
[obsolete line linen used for linings]
Lineal adj. 1 in the direct line of descent or ancestry. 2 linear. lineally adv.
Linear adj. 1 of or in lines. 2 long and narrow and of uniform breadth. linearity
n. Linearly adv.
Linen —n. 1 cloth woven from flax. 2 (collect.) Articles made or orig. Made of
linen, as sheets, shirts, underwear, etc. —adj. Made of linen. [old english: related
to latin linum flax]
Line-out n. (in rugby) parallel lines of opposing forwards at right angles to the
touchline for the throwing in of the ball.
Line printer n. Machine that prints output from a computer a line at a time.
Linger v. 1 stay about. 2 (foll. By over, on, etc.) Dally (linger over dinner;
lingered on the final note). 3 (esp. Of an illness) be protracted. 4 (often foll. By
on) be slow in dying. [old english lengan: related to *long1]
Liniment n. Embrocation. [latin linio smear]
Link —n. 1 one loop or ring of a chain etc. 2 a connecting part; one in a series. B
state or means of connection. 3 cuff-link. —v. 1 (foll. By together, to, with)
connect or join (two things or one to another). 2 clasp or intertwine (hands or
arms). 3 (foll. By on, to, in to) be joined; attach oneself to (a system, company,
etc.). link up (foll. By with) connect or combine. [old norse]
Linkage n. 1 linking or being linked, esp. The linking of quite different political
issues in negotiations. 2 link or system of links.
Links n.pl. (treated as sing. Or pl.) Golf-course. [old english, = rising ground]
Linnet n. Brown-grey finch. [french linette from lin flax, because it eats flax-
Linnet n. Brown-grey finch. [french linette from lin flax, because it eats flax-
seed]
Linseed oil n. Oil extracted from linseed and used in paint and varnish.
Lint n. 1 linen or cotton with a raised nap on one side, used for dressing wounds.
2 fluff. [perhaps from french linette from lin flax]
Lintel n. Horizontal timber, stone, etc., across the top of a door or window.
[french: related to *limit]
Lion n. 1 (fem. Lioness) large tawny flesh-eating wild cat of africa and s. Asia. 2
(the lion) zodiacal sign or constellation leo. 3 brave or celebrated person. [latin
leo]
Lip —n. 1 either of the two fleshy parts forming the edges of the mouth-opening.
2 edge of a cup, vessel, etc., esp. The part shaped for pouring from. 3 colloq.
Impudent talk. —v. (-pp-) 1 touch with the lips; apply the lips to. 2 touch lightly.
lipped adj. (also in comb.). [old english]
Lipid n. Any of a group of fatlike substances that are insoluble in water but
soluble in organic solvents, including fatty acids, oils, waxes, and steroids.
[greek lipos fat]
Lipstick n. Stick of cosmetic for colouring the lips.
Liquid —adj. 1 having a consistency like that of water or oil, flowing freely but
of constant volume. 2 having the qualities of water in appearance. 3 (of sounds)
clear and pure. 4 (of assets) easily converted into cash. —n. 1 liquid substance. 2
phonet. Sound of l or r. [latin liqueo be liquid]
Liquid crystal n. Turbid liquid with some order in its molecular arrangement.
Liquor n. 1 alcoholic (esp. Distilled) drink. 2 other liquid, esp. That produced in
cooking. [latin: related to *liquid]
Liquorice n. (also licorice) 1 black root extract used as a sweet and in medicine.
2 plant from which it is obtained. [greek glukus sweet, rhiza root]
Lira n. (pl. Lire pronunc. Same or) 1 chief monetary unit of italy. 2 chief
monetary unit of turkey. [latin libra pound]
List1 —n. 1 number of items, names, etc., written or printed together as a record
or aid to memory. 2 (in pl.) A palisades enclosing an area for a tournament. B
scene of a contest. —v. 1 make a list of. 2 enter in a list. 3 (as listed adj.) A (of
securities) approved for dealings on the stock exchange. B (of a building) of
securities) approved for dealings on the stock exchange. B (of a building) of
historical importance and officially protected. enter the lists issue or accept a
challenge. [old english]
List2 —v. (of a ship etc.) Lean over to one side. —n. Process or instance of
listing. [origin unknown]
Litany n. (pl. -ies) 1 a series of supplications to god recited by a priest etc. With
set responses by the congregation. B (the litany) that in the book of common
prayer. 2 tedious recital (litany of woes). [greek litaneia prayer]
Liter n. (brit. Litre) metric unit of capacity equal to 1 cubic decimetre (1.76
pints). [greek litra]
Literal —adj. 1 taking words in their basic sense without metaphor or allegory. 2
corresponding exactly to the original words (literal translation). 3 prosaic;
matter-of-fact. 4 so called without exaggeration (literal bankruptcy). 5 of a letter
or the letters of the alphabet. —n. Misprint. literally adv. [latin littera letter]
Literate —adj. Able to read and write; educated. —n. Literate person.
Literature n. 1 written works, esp. Those valued for form and style. 2 writings of
a country or period or on a particular subject. 3 literary production. 4 colloq.
Printed matter, leaflets, etc.
Lithium n. Soft silver-white metallic element. [greek lithion from lithos stone]
Lithography n. Process of printing from a plate so treated that ink adheres only
to the design to be printed. lithographer n. Lithographic adj. Lithographically
adv.
Litmus n. Dye from lichens, turned red by acid and blue by alkali. [old norse, =
dye-moss]
Litmus paper n. Paper stained with litmus, used to test for acids or alkalis.
Litotes n. (pl. Same) ironic understatement, esp. Using the negative (e.g. I shan’t
be sorry for i shall be glad). [greek litos plain, meagre]
Litre n. (us liter) metric unit of capacity equal to 1 cubic decimetre (1.76 pints).
[greek litra]
Litter —n. 1 a refuse, esp. Paper, discarded in a public place. B odds and ends
lying about. 2 young animals brought forth at one birth. 3 vehicle containing a
couch and carried on men’s shoulders or by animals. 4 a kind of stretcher for the
sick and wounded. 5 straw etc., as bedding for animals. 6 granulated material for
use as an animal’s, esp. A cat’s, toilet indoors. —v. 1 make (a place) untidy with
refuse. 2 give birth to (whelps etc.). 3 a provide (a horse etc.) With litter as
bedding. B spread straw etc. On (a stable-floor etc.). [latin lectus bed]
Little —adj. (littler, littlest; less or lesser, least) 1 small in size, amount, degree,
etc.; often used affectionately or condescendingly (friendly little chap; silly little
fool). 2 a short in stature. B of short distance or duration. 3 (prec. By a) a certain
though small amount of (give me a little butter). 4 trivial (questions every little
thing).
Littoral —adj. Of or on the shore. —n. Region lying along a shore. [latin litus
litor-shore]
litor-shore]
Liturgy n. (pl. -ies) 1 prescribed form of public worship. 2 (the liturgy) the book
of common prayer. liturgical adj. Liturgically adv. [greek leitourgia public
worship]
Live1 v. (-ving) 1 have life; be or remain alive. 2 have one’s home (lives up the
road). 3 (foll. By on) subsist or feed (lives on fruit). 4 (foll. By on, off) depend
for subsistence (lives off the state; lives on a pension). 5 (foll. By on, by) sustain
one’s position (live on their reputation; lives by his wits). 6 a spend or pass
(lived a full life). B express in one’s life (lives his faith). 7 conduct oneself,
arrange one’s habits, etc., in a specified way (live quietly). 8 (often foll. By on)
(of a person or thing) survive; remain (memory lived on). 9 enjoy life to the full
(not really living). live and let live condone others’ failings so as to be similarly
tolerated. Live down cause (past guilt, a scandal, etc.) To be forgotten by
blameless conduct thereafter. Live for regard as one’s life’s purpose (lives for
her music). Live in (or out) reside on (or off) the premises of one’s work. Live it
up colloq. Live gaily and extravagantly. Live a lie keep up a pretence. Live
together (esp. Of a couple not married to each other) share a home and have a
sexual relationship. Live up to fulfil. Live with 1 share a home with. 2 tolerate.
[old english]
Live2 —adj. 1 (attrib.) That is alive; living. 2 (of a broadcast, performance, etc.)
Heard or seen at the time of its performance or with an audience present. 3 of
current interest or importance (a live issue). 4 glowing, burning (live coals). 5 (of
a match, bomb, etc.) Not yet kindled or exploded. 6 (of a wire etc.) Charged with
or carrying electricity. —adv. 1 in order to make a live broadcast (going live
now to the house of commons). 2 as a live performance etc. (show went out
live). [from *alive]
Liveable adj. (also livable) 1 colloq. (usu. Liveable-in) (of a house etc.) Fit to
live in. 2 (of a life) worth living. 3 colloq. (usu. Liveable-with) (of a person)
easy to live with.
Lived-in adj. 1 (of a room etc.) Showing signs of habitation. 2 colloq. (of a face)
marked by experience.
Live-in attrib. Adj. (of a sexual partner, employee, etc.) Cohabiting; resident.
Livelong adj. In its entire length (the livelong day). [from obsolete lief,
assimilated to *live1]
Lively adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of life; vigorous, energetic. 2 vivid (lively
imagination). 3 cheerful. 4 joc. Exciting, dangerous (made things lively for him).
liveliness n. [old english]
Liven v. (often foll. By up) colloq. Make or become lively, cheer up.
Livery stable n. Stable where horses are kept at livery or let out for hire.
Livestock n. (usu. Treated as pl.) Animals on a farm, kept for use or profit.
Livid adj. 1 colloq. Furious. 2 of a bluish leaden colour (livid bruise). [latin]
Living —n. 1 being alive (that’s what living is all about). 2 livelihood. 3 position
held by a clergyman, providing an income. —adj. 1 contemporary; now alive. 2
(of a likeness) exact, lifelike. 3 (of a language) still in vernacular use. within
living memory within the memory of people still alive.
Lizard n. Reptile with usu. A long body and tail, four legs, and a rough or scaly
hide. [latin lacertus]
Llama n. S. American ruminant kept as a beast of burden and for its soft woolly
fleece. [spanish from quechua]
Loaded adj. 1 slang a rich. B drunk. C us drugged. 2 (of dice etc.) Weighted. 3
(of a question or statement) carrying some hidden implication.
Loaf1 n. (pl. Loaves) 1 unit of baked bread, usu. Of a standard size or shape. 2
other food made in the shape of a loaf and cooked. 3 slang head as the seat of
common sense. [old english]
Loaf2 v. (often foll. By about, around) spend time idly; hang about. [back-
formation from *loafer]
Loafer n. 1 idle person. 2 (loafer) propr. Flat soft-soled leather shoe. [origin
uncertain]
Loam n. Rich soil of clay, sand, and humus. loamy adj. [old english]
Loan —n. 1 thing lent, esp. A sum of money. 2 lending or being lent. —v. Lend
(money, works of art, etc.). on loan being lent. [old english]
Loan shark n. Colloq. Person who lends money at exorbitant rates of interest.
Loath predic. Adj. (also loth) disinclined, reluctant (loath to admit it). [old
english]
Lob —v. (-bb-) hit or throw (a ball etc.) Slowly or in a high arc. —n. Such a
ball. [probably low german or dutch]
Lobby —n. (pl. -ies) 1 porch, ante-room, entrance-hall, or corridor. 2 a (in the
house of commons) large hall used esp. For interviews between mps and the
public. B (also division lobby) each of two corridors to which mps retire to vote.
3 a body of lobbyists (anti-abortion lobby). B organized rally of lobbying
members of the public. 4 (prec. By the) group of journalists who receive
unattributable briefings from the government (lobby correspondent). —v. (-ies, -
ied) 1 solicit the support of (an influential person). 2 (of members of the public)
inform in order to influence (legislators, an mp, etc.). 3 frequent a parliamentary
lobby. [latin lobia lodge]
Lobe n. 1 lower soft pendulous part of the outer ear. 2 similar part of other
organs, esp. The brain, liver, and lung. lobed adj. [greek lobos lobe, pod]
Lobelia n. Plant with bright, esp. Blue, flowers. [lobel, name of a botanist]
Lobotomy n. (pl. -ies) incision into the frontal lobe of the brain, formerly used in
some cases of mental disorder. [from *lobe]
Lobscouse n. Sailor’s dish of meat stewed with vegetables and ship’s biscuit.
[origin unknown]
Lobster n. 1 marine crustacean with two pincer-like claws. 2 its flesh as food.
Lobster n. 1 marine crustacean with two pincer-like claws. 2 its flesh as food.
[latin locusta lobster, *locust]
Local —adj. 1 belonging to, existing in, or peculiar to a particular place (local
history). 2 of the neighbourhood (local paper). 3 of or affecting a part and not the
whole (local anaesthetic). 4 (of a telephone call) to a nearby place and charged at
a lower rate. —n. 1 inhabitant of a particular place. 2 (often prec. By the) colloq.
Local public house. 3 local anaesthetic. locally adv. [latin locus place]
Locality n. (pl. -ies) 1 district. 2 site or scene of a thing. 3 thing’s position. [latin:
related to *local]
related to *local]
Locate v. (-ting) 1 discover the exact place of. 2 establish in a place; situate. 3
state the locality of. [latin: related to *local]
Location n. 1 particular place. 2 locating. 3 natural, not studio, setting for a film
etc. (filmed on location).
Lock1 —n. 1 mechanism for fastening a door etc., with a bolt that requires a key
of a particular shape to work it. 2 confined section of a canal or river within
sluice-gates, for moving boats from one level to another. 3 a turning of a
vehicle’s front wheels. B (in full full lock) maximum extent of this. 4 interlocked
or jammed state. 5 wrestling-hold that keeps an opponent’s limb fixed. 6 (in full
lock forward) player in the second row of a rugby scrum. 7 mechanism for
exploding the charge of a gun. —v. 1 a fasten with a lock. B (foll. By up) shut (a
house etc.) Thus. C (of a door etc.) Be lockable. 2 a (foll. By up, in, into) enclose
(a person or thing) by locking. B (foll. By up) colloq. Imprison (a person). 3
(often foll. By up, away) store inaccessibly (capital locked up in land). 4 (foll.
By in) hold fast (in sleep, an embrace, a struggle, etc.). 5 (usu. In passive) (of
land, hills, etc.) Enclose. 6 make or become rigidly fixed. 7 (cause to) jam or
catch. lock on to (of a missile etc.) Automatically find and then track (a target).
Lock out 1 keep out by locking the door. 2 (of an employer) subject (employees)
to a lockout. Under lock and key locked up. lockable adj. [old english]
Lock2 n. 1 portion of hair that hangs together. 2 (in pl.) The hair of the head
(golden locks). [old english]
Locket n. Small ornamental case for a portrait or lock of hair, worn on a chain
round the neck. [french diminutive of loc latch, *lock1]
Locomotion n. Motion or the power of motion from place to place. [latin *locus,
*motion]
Locomotive —n. Engine for pulling trains. —adj. Of, having, or effecting
locomotion.
Locum tenens n. (pl. Locum tenentes) (also colloq. Locum) deputy acting esp.
For a doctor or clergyman. [latin, = (one) holding a place]
Locus n. (pl. Loci) 1 position or locality. 2 line or curve etc. Formed by all the
points satisfying certain conditions, or by the defined motion of a point, line, or
surface. [latin, = place]
Locus classicus n. (pl. Loci classici) best known or most authoritative passage on
a subject. [latin: related to *locus]
Lodestar n. 1 star used as a guide in navigation, esp. The pole star. 2 a guiding
principle. B object of pursuit. [from *lode in obsolete sense ‘way, journey’]
Lodge —n. 1 small house at the entrance to a park or grounds of a large house,
occupied by a gatekeeper etc. 2 small house used in the sporting seasons
(hunting lodge). 3 porter’s room at the gate of a college, factory, etc. 4 members
or meeting-place of a branch of a society such as the freemasons. 5 beaver’s or
otter’s lair. —v. (-ging) 1 a reside or live, esp. As a lodger. B provide with
temporary accommodation. 2 submit or present (a complaint etc.) For attention.
3 become fixed or caught; stick. 4 deposit (money etc.) For security. 5 (foll. By
in, with) place (power etc.) In a person. [french loge: related to *leaf]
Loess n. Deposit of fine wind-blown soil, esp. In the basins of large rivers.
[swiss german, = loose]
Loft —n. 1 attic. 2 room over a stable. 3 gallery in a church or hall. 4 pigeon-
house. 5 backward slope on the face of a golf-club. 6 lofting stroke. —v. Send (a
ball etc.) High up. [old english, = air, upper room]
Lofty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of things) of imposing height. 2 haughty, aloof. 3
exalted, noble (lofty ideals). loftily adv. Loftiness n.
Log1 —n. 1 unhewn piece of a felled tree; any large rough piece of wood, esp.
Cut for firewood. 2 hist. Floating device for gauging a ship’s speed. 3 record of
events occurring during the voyage of a ship or aircraft. 4 any systematic record
of deeds, experiences, etc. 5 = *logbook. —v. (-gg-) 1 a enter (a ship’s speed, or
other transport details) in a logbook. B enter (data etc.) In a regular record. 2
attain (a distance, speed, etc., thus recorded) (had logged over 600 miles). 3 cut
into logs. log in = log on. Log on (or off) open (or close) one’s online access to a
computer system. Sleep like a log sleep soundly. [origin unknown]
Logan n. (in full logan-stone) poised heavy stone rocking at a touch. [= (dial.)
Logging, = rocking]
Loganberry n. (pl. -ies) dark red fruit, hybrid of a blackberry and a raspberry.
[logan, name of a horticulturalist]
Logger n. Us lumberjack.
Logging n. Work of cutting and preparing forest timber.
-logist comb. Form forming nouns meaning ‘person skilled in -logy’ (geologist).
Log-jam n. Deadlock.
Logo n. (pl. -s) emblem of an organization used in its display material etc.
[abbreviation of logotype from greek logos word]
Loin n. 1 (in pl.) Side and back of the body between the ribs and the hip-bones. 2
joint of meat from this part of an animal. [french loigne from latin lumbus]
Loiter v. 1 stand about idly; linger. 2 go slowly with frequent stops. loiter with
intent linger in order to commit a felony. loiterer n. [dutch]
Lollipop man n. (also lollipop lady) colloq. Warden using a circular sign on a
pole to stop traffic for children to cross the road.
Lollop v. (-p-) colloq. 1 flop about. 2 move in ungainly bounds. [probably from
*loll, *trollop]
Londoner n. Native or inhabitant of london.
Lone hand n. 1 hand played or player playing against the rest at cards. 2 person
or action without allies.
Lonely adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 without companions (lonely existence). 2 sad because
of this. 3 unfrequented, isolated, uninhabited. loneliness n.
Lonesome adj. Esp. Us 1 lonely. 2 making one feel forlorn (a lonesome song).
Long1 —adj. (longer; longest) 1 measuring much from end to end in space or
time. 2 (following a measurement) in length or duration (2 metres long; two
time. 2 (following a measurement) in length or duration (2 metres long; two
months long). 3 a consisting of many items (a long list). B seemingly more than
the stated amount; tedious (ten long miles). 4 of elongated shape. 5 lasting or
reaching far back or forward in time (long friendship). 6 far-reaching; acting at a
distance; involving a great interval or difference. 7 (of a vowel or syllable)
having the greater of the two recognized durations. 8 (of odds or a chance)
reflecting a low level of probability. 9 (of stocks) bought in large quantities in
advance, with the expectation of a rise in price. 10 (foll. By on) colloq. Well
supplied with. —n. Long interval or period (will not take long; won’t be long).
—adv. (longer; longest) 1 by or for a long time (long before; long ago). 2
(following nouns of duration) throughout a specified time (all day long). 3 (in
compar.) After an implied point of time (shall not wait any longer). as (or so)
long as provided that. Before long soon. In the long run (or term) eventually,
ultimately. The long and the short of it 1 all that need be said. 2 the eventual
outcome. Not by a long shot (or chalk) by no means. longish adj. [old english]
Long2 v. (foll. By for or to + infin.) Have a strong wish or desire for. [old
english, = seem *long1 to]
Longing —n. Intense desire. —adj. Having or showing this. longingly adv.
Long jump n. Athletic contest of jumping as far as possible along the ground in
one leap.
Long-life adj. (of milk etc.) Treated to prolong its period of usability.
Long-lost attrib. Adj. That has been lost for a long time.
Long-playing adj. (of a gramophone record) playing for about 20–30 minutes on
each side.
Long-range adj. 1 having a long range. 2 relating to a period of time far into the
future (long-range weather forecast).
Longshoreman n. Us docker.
Loo n. Colloq. Lavatory. [origin uncertain]
Loofah n. Rough bath-sponge made from the dried pod of a type of gourd.
[arabic]
Look —v. 1 a (often foll. By at, down, up, etc.) Use one’s sight; turn one’s eyes
in some direction. B turn one’s eyes on; examine (looked me in the eyes; looked
us up and down). 2 a make a visual or mental search (i’ll look in the morning). B
(foll. By at) consider, examine (must look at the facts). 3 (foll. By for) search
for, seek, be on the watch for. 4 inquire (when one looks deeper). 5 have a
specified appearance; seem (look a fool; future looks bleak). 6 (foll. By to) a
consider; be concerned about (look to the future). B rely on (look to me for
support). 7 (foll. By into) investigate. 8 (foll. By what, where, whether, etc.)
Ascertain or observe by sight. 9 (of a thing) face some direction. 10 indicate
(emotion etc.) By one’s looks. 11 (foll. By that) take care; make sure. 12 (foll.
By to + infin.) Aim (am looking to finish it soon). —n. 1 act of looking; gaze,
glance. 2 (in sing. Or pl.) Appearance of a face; expression. 3 appearance of a
thing (by the look of it). 4 style, fashion (this year’s look; the wet look). —int.
(also look here!) Calling attention, expressing a protest, etc. look after attend to;
take care of. Look one’s age appear as old as one really is. Look back 1 (foll. By
on, to) turn one’s thoughts to (something past). 2 (usu. With neg.) Cease to
progress (he’s never looked back). Look down on (or look down one’s nose at)
regard with contempt or superiority.
Look-in n. Colloq. Chance of participation or success (never gets a look-in).
Looking-glass n. Mirror.
Loom2 v. 1 appear dimly, esp. As a vague and often threatening shape. 2 (of an
event) be ominously close. [probably low german or dutch]
Loon n. 1 a kind of diving bird. 2 colloq. Crazy person (cf. *loony). [old norse]
Loony slang —n. (pl. -ies) lunatic. —adj. (-ier, -iest) crazy. looniness n.
[abbreviation]
Loop —n. 1 a figure produced by a curve, or a doubled thread etc., that crosses
itself. B thing, path, etc., forming this figure. 2 similarly shaped attachment used
as a fastening. 3 ring etc. As a handle etc. 4 contraceptive coil. 5 (in full loop-
line) railway or telegraph line that diverges from a main line and joins it again. 6
skating or aerobatic manoeuvre describing a loop. 7 complete circuit for an
electric current. 8 endless band of tape or film allowing continuous repetition. 9
sequence of computer operations repeated until some condition is satisfied. —v.
1 form or bend into a loop. 2 fasten with a loop or loops. 3 form a loop. 4 (also
loop the loop) fly in a circle vertically. [origin unknown]
Loose —adj. 1 not tightly held, fixed, etc. (loose handle; loose stones). 2 free
from bonds or restraint. 3 not held together (loose papers). 4 not compact or
dense (loose soil). 5 inexact (loose translation). 6 morally lax. 7 (of the tongue)
indiscreet. 8 tending to diarrhoea. 9 (in comb.) Loosely (loose-fitting). —v. (-
sing) 1 free; untie or detach; release. 2 relax (loosed my hold). 3 discharge (a
missile). at a loose end unoccupied. On the loose 1 escaped from captivity. 2
enjoying oneself freely. loosely adv. Looseness n. Loosish adj. [old norse]
Loose-leaf adj. (of a notebook etc.) With pages that can be removed and
replaced.
Loot —n. 1 spoil, booty. 2 slang money. —v. 1 rob or steal, esp. After rioting
etc. 2 plunder. looter n. [hindi]
Lop v. (-pp-) 1 a (often foll. By off, away) cut or remove (a part or parts) from a
whole, esp. Branches from a tree. B remove branches from (a tree). 2 (often foll.
By off) remove (items) as superfluous. [old english]
Lope —v. (-ping) run with a long bounding stride. —n. Long bounding stride.
[old norse: related to *leap]
Lord —n. 1 master or ruler. 2 hist. Feudal superior, esp. Of a manor. 3 peer of
the realm or person with the title lord. 4 (lord) (often prec. By the) god or christ.
5 (lord) a prefixed as the designation of a marquis, earl, viscount, or baron, or (to
the christian name) of the younger son of a duke or marquis. B (the lords) =
*house of lords. —int. (lord, good lord, etc.) Expressing surprise, dismay, etc.
lord it over domineer. [old english, = bread-keeper: related to loaf1, ward]
Lord chancellor n. (also lord high chancellor) highest officer of the crown,
presiding in the house of lords etc.
Lordly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 haughty, imperious. 2 suitable for a lord. lordliness n.
Lords temporal n.pl. Members of the house of lords other than bishops.
Lorn adj. Archaic desolate, forlorn. [old english, past part. Of *lose]
Lorry n. (pl. -ies) large vehicle for transporting goods etc. [origin uncertain]
Lose v. (-sing; past and past part. Lost) 1 be deprived of or cease to have, esp.
By negligence. 2 be deprived of (a person) by death. 3 become unable to find,
follow, or understand (lose one’s way). 4 let or have pass from one’s control or
reach (lost my chance; lost his composure). 5 be defeated in (a game, lawsuit,
battle, etc.). 6 get rid of (lost our pursuers; lose weight). 7 forfeit (a right to a
thing). 8 spend (time, efforts, etc.) To no purpose.
Loser n. 1 person or thing that loses, esp. A contest (is a bad loser). 2 colloq.
Person who regularly fails.
Loss n. 1 losing or being lost. 2 thing or amount lost. 3 detriment resulting from
losing. at a loss (sold etc.) For less than was paid for it. Be at a loss be puzzled or
uncertain. [probably back-formation from *lost]
Lottery n. (pl. -ies) 1 means of raising money by selling numbered tickets and
giving prizes to the holders of numbers drawn at random. 2 thing whose success
is governed by chance. [dutch: related to *lot]
Lotto n. Game of chance like bingo, but with numbers drawn by players instead
of called. [italian]
Lotus position n. Cross-legged position of meditation with the feet resting on the
thighs.
Loud —adj. 1 strongly audible, noisy. 2 (of colours etc.) Gaudy, obtrusive. —
adv. Loudly. out loud aloud. loudish adj. Loudly adv. Loudness n. [old english]
Lounge —v. (-ging) 1 recline comfortably; loll. 2 stand or move about idly. —n.
1 place for lounging, esp.: a a sitting-room in a house. B a public room (e.g. In a
hotel). C a place in an airport etc. With seats for waiting passengers. 2 spell of
lounging. [origin uncertain]
Lounge suit n. Man’s suit for ordinary day (esp. Business) wear.
Lour v. (also lower) 1 frown; look sullen. 2 (of the sky etc.) Look dark and
threatening. [origin unknown]
Louse —n. 1 (pl. Lice) parasitic insect. 2 (pl. Louses) slang contemptible person.
—v. (-sing) delouse. louse up slang make a mess of. [old english]
Lousy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. Very bad; disgusting; ill (feel lousy). 2 (often
foll. By with) colloq. Well supplied, teeming. 3 infested with lice. lousily adv.
Lousiness n.
Louvre n. (also louver) 1 each of a set of overlapping slats designed to admit air
and some light and exclude rain. 2 domed structure on a roof with side openings
for ventilation etc. louvred adj. [french lover skylight]
Lovage n. Herb used for flavouring etc. [french levesche from latin ligusticum
ligurian]
Love-bird n. Parrot, esp. One seeming to show great affection for its mate.
Lovely —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. Pleasing, delightful. 2 beautiful. —n. (pl. -
ies) colloq. Pretty woman. lovely and colloq. Delightfully (lovely and warm).
loveliness n. [old english]
Lover n. 1 person in love with another. 2 person with whom another is having
sexual relations. 3 (in pl.) Unmarried couple in love or having sexual relations. 4
person who likes or enjoys a specified thing (music lover).
Love-seat n. Small sofa in the shape of an s, with two seats facing in opposite
directions.
Low1 —adj. 1 not high or tall (low wall). 2 a not elevated in position (low
altitude). B (of the sun) near the horizon. 3 of or in humble rank or position (of
low birth).
Low2 —n. Sound made by cattle; moo. —v. Make this sound. [old english]
Low-down —adj. Mean, dishonourable. —n. Colloq. (prec. By the; usu. Foll. By
on) relevant information.
Lower house n. Larger and usu. Elected body in a legislature, esp. The house of
commons.
Low gear n. Gear such that the driven end of a transmission revolves slower than
the driving end.
Low-pitched adj. 1 (of a sound) low. 2 (of a roof) having only a slight slope.
Low-rise —adj. (of a building) having few storeys. —n. Such a building.
Low tide n. (also low water) time or level of the tide at its ebb.
Loyal adj. 1 (often foll. By to) faithful. 2 steadfast in allegiance etc. loyally adv.
Loyalty n. (pl. -ies). [latin: related to *legal]
L-plate n. Sign bearing the letter l, attached to a vehicle to show that it is being
driven by a learner. [from *plate]
L.s.d. N. (also £.s.d.) 1 hist. Pounds, shillings, and pence (in former british
currency). 2 money, riches. [latin librae, solidi, denarii]
Lu symb. Lutetium.
Lubricate v. (-ting) 1 apply oil or grease etc. To. 2 make slippery. lubrication n.
Lubricator n. [latin lubricus slippery]
Lucky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having or resulting from good luck. 2 bringing good
luck (lucky charm). luckily adv.
Lucky dip n. Tub containing articles varying in value and chosen at random.
Lucre n. Derog. Financial gain. [latin lucrum gain]
Ludo n. Simple board-game played with dice and counters. [latin, = i play]
Luff v. (also absol.) 1 steer (a ship) nearer the wind. 2 raise or lower (a crane’s
jib). [french, probably from low german]
Lug —v. (-gg-) 1 drag or carry with effort. 2 pull hard. —n. 1 hard or rough pull.
2 colloq. Ear. 3 projection on an object by which it may be carried, fixed in
place, etc. [probably scandinavian]
Lugsail n. Four-cornered sail on a yard. [probably from *lug]
Lull —v. 1 soothe or send to sleep. 2 (usu. Foll. By into) deceive (a person) into
undue confidence (lulled into a false sense of security). 3 allay (suspicions etc.),
usu. By deception. 4 (of noise, a storm, etc.) Abate or fall quiet. —n. Temporary
quiet period. [imitative]
Lullaby n. (pl. -ies) soothing song to send a child to sleep. [related to *lull]
Lumbago n. Rheumatic pain in the muscles of the lower back. [latin lumbus
loin]
Lumbar puncture n. Withdrawal of spinal fluid from the lower back for
diagnosis.
Lumber —n. 1 disused and cumbersome articles. 2 partly prepared timber. —v.
Lumber —n. 1 disused and cumbersome articles. 2 partly prepared timber. —v.
1 (usu. Foll. By with) leave (a person etc.) With something unwanted or
unpleasant. 2 (usu. Foll. By up) obstruct, fill inconveniently. 3 cut and prepare
forest timber. 4 move in a slow clumsy way. [origin uncertain]
Lump1 —n. 1 compact shapeless mass. 2 tumour; swelling, bruise. 3 heavy, dull,
or ungainly person. 4 (prec. By the) slang casual workers in the building trade.
—v. 1 (usu. Foll. By together etc.) Treat as all alike; put together in a lump. 2 (of
sauce etc.) Become lumpy. lump in the throat feeling of pressure there, caused
by emotion. [scandinavian]
Lump2 v. Colloq. Put up with ungraciously (like it or lump it). [imitative]
Lump sum n. 1 sum covering a number of items. 2 money paid down at once.
Lumpy adj. (-ier, -iest) full of or covered with lumps. lumpily adv. Lumpiness n.
Lunacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 insanity. 2 mental unsoundness. 3 great folly. [latin: related
to *lunar]
Lunar adj. Of, like, concerned with, or determined by the moon. [latin luna
moon]
Lunar module n. Small craft for travelling between the moon and a spacecraft in
orbit around it.
Lunar month n. 1 period of the moon’s revolution, esp. The interval between
new moons (about 291/2 days). 2 (in general use) four weeks.
Lunatic —n. 1 insane person. 2 wildly foolish person. —adj. Insane; extremely
reckless or foolish. [related to *lunacy]
Lunation n. Interval between new moons, about 291/2 days. [medieval latin:
related to *lunar]
Lunch —n. Midday meal. —v. 1 take lunch. 2 entertain to lunch. [shortening of
*luncheon]
Lung n. Either of the pair of respiratory organs in humans and many other
vertebrates. [old english: related to *light2]
Lunge —n. 1 sudden movement forward. 2 the basic attacking move in fencing.
3 long rope on which a horse is held and made to circle round its trainer. —v. (-
ging) (usu. Foll. By at, out) deliver or make a lunge. [french allonger from long
*long1]
Lurch1 —n. Stagger; sudden unsteady movement or leaning. —v. Stagger; move
or progress unsteadily. [originally naut., of uncertain origin]
Lurch2 n. leave in the lurch desert (a friend etc.) In difficulties. [obsolete french
lourche a kind of backgammon]
Lure —v. (-ring) 1 (usu. Foll. By away, into) entice. 2 recall with a lure. —n. 1
thing used to entice. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) enticing quality (of a pursuit etc.). 3
thing used to entice. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) enticing quality (of a pursuit etc.). 3
falconer’s apparatus for recalling a hawk. [french from germanic]
Lurid adj. 1 bright and glaring in colour. 2 sensational, shocking (lurid details). 3
ghastly, wan (lurid complexion). luridly adv. [latin]
Lurk v. 1 linger furtively. 2 a lie in ambush. B (usu. Foll. By in, under, about,
etc.) Hide, esp. For sinister purposes. 3 (as lurking adj.) Dormant (a lurking
suspicion). [perhaps from *lour]
Lust —n. 1 strong sexual desire. 2 (usu. Foll. By for, of) passionate desire for or
enjoyment of (lust for power; lust of battle). 3 sensuous appetite regarded as
sinful (lusts of the flesh). —v. (usu. Foll. By after, for) have a strong or
excessive (esp. Sexual) desire. lustful adj. Lustfully adv. [old english]
Lusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 healthy and strong. 2 vigorous, lively. lustily adv.
Lustiness n. [from *lust]
Lute2 —n. Clay or cement for making joints airtight etc. —v. (-ting) apply lute
to. [latin lutum mud]
Lw symb. Lawrencium.
-ly1 suffix forming adjectives, esp. From nouns, meaning: 1 having the qualities
-ly1 suffix forming adjectives, esp. From nouns, meaning: 1 having the qualities
of (princely). 2 recurring at intervals of (daily). [old english]
-ly2 suffix forming adverbs from adjectives (boldly; happily). [old english]
Lychee n. (also litchi, lichee) 1 sweet white juicy fruit in a brown skin. 2 tree,
orig. From china, bearing this. [chinese]
Lye n. 1 water made alkaline with wood ashes. 2 any alkaline solution for
washing. [old english]
Lymph n. 1 colourless fluid from the tissues of the body, containing white blood
cells. 2 this fluid used as a vaccine. [latin lympha]
Lymphatic adj. 1 of, secreting, or conveying lymph. 2 (of a person) pale, flabby,
or sluggish.
Lymph gland n. (also lymph node) small mass of tissue in the lymphatic system.
Lynch v. (of a mob) put (a person) to death without a legal trial. lynching n.
[originally us, after lynch, 18th-c. Justice of the peace in virginia]
Lynx n. (pl. Same or -s) wild cat with a short tail and spotted fur. [greek lugx]
Lyre-bird n. Australian bird, the male of which has a lyre-shaped tail display.
Lyric —adj. 1 (of poetry) expressing the writer’s emotions, usu. Briefly and in
stanzas. 2 (of a poet) writing in this manner. 3 meant or fit to be sung, songlike.
—n. 1 lyric poem. 2 (in pl.) Words of a song. [latin: related to *lyre]
Lyrical adj. 1 = *lyric. 2 resembling, or using language appropriate to, lyric
poetry. 3 colloq. Highly enthusiastic (wax lyrical about). lyrically adv.
Macaque n. A kind of monkey, e.g. The rhesus monkey and barbary ape, with
prominent cheek-pouches. [portuguese, = monkey]
Mccoy n. the real mccoy colloq. The real thing; the genuine article. [origin
uncertain]
Mace1 n. 1 staff of office, esp. Symbol of the speaker’s authority in the house of
commons. 2 person bearing this. [french from romanic]
Mach n. (in full mach number) ratio of the speed of a body to the speed of sound
in the surrounding medium. [mach, name of a physicist]
Machete n. Broad heavy knife, esp. Of central america. [spanish from latin]
Machine-gun —n. Automatic gun giving continuous fire. —v. (-nn-) shoot at
with a machine-gun.
with a machine-gun.
Mach one n. (also mach two etc.) The speed (or twice etc. The speed) of sound.
Mackerel n. (pl. Same or -s) marine fish used as food. [anglo-french]
Mackerel sky n. Sky dappled with rows of small white fleecy clouds.
Macron n. Mark ( ) over a long or stressed vowel. [greek, neuter of makros long]
Macron n. Mark ( ) over a long or stressed vowel. [greek, neuter of makros long]
Macroscopic adj. 1 visible to the naked eye. 2 regarded in terms of large units.
Macula n. (pl. -lae) dark, esp. Permanent, spot in the skin. maculation n. [latin, =
spot, mesh]
Mad adj. (madder, maddest) 1 insane; frenzied. 2 wildly foolish. 3 (often foll. By
about, on) colloq. Wildly excited or infatuated. 4 colloq. Angry. 5 (of an animal)
rabid. 6 wildly light-hearted. like mad colloq. With great energy or enthusiasm.
madness n. [old english]
Madder n. 1 herbaceous plant with yellowish flowers. 2 a red dye from its root.
Madder n. 1 herbaceous plant with yellowish flowers. 2 a red dye from its root.
B its synthetic substitute. [old english]
Made past and past part. Of *make. —adj. 1 built or formed (well-made). 2
successful (self-made man; be made). have (or have got) it made colloq. Be sure
of success. Made for ideally suited to. Made of consisting of. Made of money
colloq. Very rich.
Madeira n. 1 fortified white wine from madeira. 2 (in full madeira cake) a kind
of sponge cake.
Mafia n. 1 organized body of criminals, orig. In sicily, now also in italy and the
us. 2 (mafia) group regarded as exerting an intimidating and corrupt power.
[italian dial., = bragging]
Magazine n. 1 illustrated periodical publication containing articles, stories, etc. 2
chamber holding cartridges to be fed automatically to the breech of a gun. 3
similar device in a slide projector etc. 4 military store for arms etc. 5 store for
explosives. [arabic makazin]
Magic eye n. Photoelectric device used for detection, automatic control, etc.
Magma n. (pl. -s) molten rock under the earth’s crust, from which igneous rock
is formed by cooling. [greek masso knead]
Magna carta n. (also magna charta) charter of liberty obtained from king john in
1215. [medieval latin, = great charter]
Magnet n. 1 piece of iron, steel, alloy, ore, etc., having the properties of
attracting iron and of pointing approximately north and south when suspended. 2
lodestone. 3 person or thing that attracts. [greek magnes -etos of magnesia:
related to *magnesia]
Magnetic pole n. Point near the north or south pole where a magnetic needle dips
vertically.
Magnetic storm n. Disturbance of the earth’s magnetic field by charged particles
from the sun etc.
Magnetic tape n. Plastic strip coated with magnetic material for recording sound
or pictures.
Magnetize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 give magnetic properties to. 2 make
into a magnet. 3 attract as a magnet does. magnetizable adj. Magnetization n.
Magneto n. (pl. -s) electric generator using permanent magnets (esp. For the
ignition of an internal-combustion engine). [abbreviation of magneto-electric]
Magnificat n. Hymn of the virgin mary used as a canticle. [from its opening
word]
Magnify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make (a thing) appear larger than it is, as with a lens. 2
exaggerate. 3 intensify. 4 archaic extol. magnifiable adj. Magnifier n. [latin:
related to *magnificent]
related to *magnificent]
Magnum n. (pl. -s) wine bottle twice the normal size. [latin, neuter of magnus
great]
Magnum opus n. Great work of art, literature, etc., esp. An artist’s most
important work. [latin]
Magpie n. 1 a kind of crow with a long tail and black and white plumage. 2
chatterer. 3 indiscriminate collector. [from mag, abbreviation of margaret, *pie2]
Magus n. (pl. Magi) 1 priest of ancient persia. 2 sorcerer. 3 (the magi) the ‘wise
men’ from the east (matt. 2:1–12). [persian magus]
Magyar —n. 1 member of the chief ethnic group in hungary. 2 their language. —
adj. Of this people. [native name]
Maharaja n. (also maharajah) hist. Title of some indian princes. [hindi, = great
rajah]
Maharanee n. (also maharani) (pl. -s) hist. Maharaja’s wife or widow. [hindi, =
great ranee]
Mah-jong n. (also -jongg) game played with 136 or 144 pieces called tiles.
[chinese dial. Ma-tsiang sparrows]
Mahogany n. (pl. -ies) 1 reddish-brown tropical wood used for furniture. 2 its
colour. [origin unknown]
Mail1 —n. 1 a letters and parcels etc. Carried by post. B postal system. C one
complete delivery or collection of mail. 2 email. 3 vehicle carrying mail. —v.
Send by post or email. [french male wallet]
Mail2 n. Armour of metal rings or plates. [french maille from latin macula]
Mailbox n. Us letter-box.
Main —adj. 1 chief, principal. 2 exerted to the full (by main force). —n. 1
principal duct etc. For water, sewage, etc. 2 (usu. In pl.; prec. By the) a central
distribution network for electricity, gas, water, etc. B domestic electricity supply
as distinct from batteries. 3 poet. High seas (spanish main). in the main mostly.
[old english]
Mainspring n. 1 principal spring of a watch, clock, etc. 2 chief motivating force;
incentive.
Mainstay n. 1 chief support. 2 stay from the maintop to the foot of the foremast.
Maisonette n. 1 flat on more than one floor. 2 small house. [french maisonnette
diminutive of maison house]
Major-domo n. (pl. -s) chief steward of a great household. [medieval latin major
domus highest official of the household]
Majority n. (pl. -ies) 1 (usu. Foll. By of) greater number or part. 2 a number of
votes by which a candidate wins. B party etc. Receiving the greater number of
votes. 3 full legal age. 4 rank of major. [medieval latin: related to *major]
Usage in sense 1, majority is strictly used only with countable nouns, as in the
majority of people, and not (e.g.) The majority of the work.
Majority rule n. Principle that the greater number should exercise the greater
power.
Make —v. (-king; past and past part. Made) 1 construct; create; form from parts
or other substances. 2 cause or compel (made me do it). 3 a cause to exist; bring
about (made a noise). B cause to become or seem (made him angry; made a fool
of me; made him a knight). 4 compose; prepare; write (made her will; made a
film). 5 constitute; amount to; be reckoned as (2 and 2 make 4). 6 a undertake
(made a promise; make an effort). B perform (an action etc.) (made a face; made
a bow). 7 gain, acquire, procure (money, a living, a profit, etc.). 8 prepare (tea,
coffee, a meal, etc.). 9 a arrange (a bed) for use. B arrange and light materials for
(a fire). 10 a proceed (made towards the river). B (foll. By to + infin.) Act as if
with the intention to (he made to go). 11 colloq. A arrive at (a place) or in time
with the intention to (he made to go). 11 colloq. A arrive at (a place) or in time
for (a train etc.). B manage to attend; manage to attend on (a certain day) or at (a
certain time) (couldn’t make the meeting last week; can make any day except
friday). C achieve a place in (made the first eleven). 12 establish or enact (a
distinction, rule, law, etc.). 13 consider to be; estimate as (what do you make the
total?). 14 secure the success or advancement of (his second novel made him; it
made my day).
Making n. (in pl.) 1 earnings; profit. 2 essential qualities or ingredients (has the
makings of a pilot). be the making of ensure the success of. In the making in the
course of being made or formed. [old english: related to *make]
Maladjusted adj. (of a person) unable to adapt to or cope with the demands of a
social environment. maladjustment n.
Male —adj. 1 of the sex that can beget offspring by fertilization. 2 of men or
male animals, plants, etc.; masculine. 3 (of plants or flowers) containing stamens
but no pistil. 4 (of parts of machinery etc.) Designed to enter or fill the
corresponding hollow part (male screw). —n. Male person or animal. maleness
n. [latin masculus from mas a male]
Malleable adj. 1 (of metal etc.) That can be shaped by hammering. 2 easily
influenced; pliable. malleability n. Malleably adv. [medieval latin: related to
*mallet]
Mallow n. Plant with hairy stems and leaves and pink or purple flowers. [latin
malva]
Malnutrition n. Condition resulting from the lack of foods necessary for health.
Malt —n. 1 barley, or other grain, steeped, germinated, and dried, for brewing
etc. 2 colloq. Malt whisky; malt liquor. —v. Convert (grain) into malt. malty adj.
(-ier, -iest). [old english]
Malted milk n. Drink made from dried milk and extract of malt.
Maltese cross n. Cross with the arms broadening outwards, often indented at the
ends.
Maltose n. Sugar made from starch by enzymes in malt, saliva, etc. [french:
related to *malt]
Mambo n. (pl. -s) latin american dance like the rumba. [american spanish]
Mammography n. X-ray technique for screening the breasts for tumours etc.
Mammoth —n. Large extinct elephant with a hairy coat and curved tusks. —adj.
Huge. [russian]
Man —n. (pl. Men) 1 adult human male. 2 a human being; person. B the human
race. 3 a workman (the manager spoke to the men). B manservant, valet. 4 (usu.
In pl.) Soldiers, sailors, etc., esp. Non-officers. 5 suitable or appropriate person;
expert (he is your man; the man for the job). 6 a husband (man and wife). B
colloq. Boyfriend, lover. 7 human being of a specified type or historical period
(renaissance man; peking man). 8 piece in chess, draughts, etc. 9 colloq. As a
form of address. 10 person pursued; opponent (police caught their man). —v. (-
nn-) 1 supply with a person or people for work or defence. 2 work, service, or
defend (man the pumps). 3 fill (a post). as one man in unison. Be one’s own man
be independent. To a man without exception. manlike adj. [old english]
Manacle —n. (usu. In pl.) 1 fetter for the hand; handcuff. 2 restraint. —v. (-ling)
fetter with manacles. [latin manus hand]
Mandible n. 1 jaw, esp. The lower jaw in mammals and fishes. 2 upper or lower
part of a bird’s beak. 3 either half of the crushing organ in the mouthparts of an
insect etc. [latin mando chew]
Mandolin n. A kind of lute with paired metal strings plucked with a plectrum.
mandolinist n. [french from italian]
Mane n. 1 long hair on the neck of a horse, lion, etc. 2 colloq. Person’s long hair.
[old english]
Manganese n. 1 grey brittle metallic element. 2 black mineral oxide of this used
in glass-making etc. [italian: related to *magnesia]
Mange n. Skin disease in hairy and woolly animals. [french mangeue itch, from
latin manduco chew]
Manger n. Box or trough for horses or cattle to feed from. [latin: related to
*mange]
Mange-tout n. A kind of pea eaten in the pod. [french, = eat-all]
Mangle1 —n. Machine of two or more cylinders for squeezing water from and
pressing wet clothes. —v. (-ling) press (clothes etc.) In a mangle. [dutch mangel]
Mango n. (pl. -es or -s) 1 tropical fruit with yellowish flesh. 2 tree bearing this.
[tamil mankay]
Maniac —n. 1 colloq. Person behaving wildly (too many maniacs on the road). 2
colloq. Obsessive enthusiast. 3 person suffering from mania. —adj. Of or
behaving like a maniac. maniacal adj. Maniacally adv.
-maniac comb. Form forming adjectives and nouns meaning ‘affected with -
mania’ or ‘a person affected with -mania’ (nymphomaniac).
Manicure —n. Cosmetic treatment of the hands and fingernails. —v. (-ring) give
a manicure to (the hands or a person). manicurist n. [latin manus hand, cura care]
Manifest —adj. Clear or obvious to the eye or mind. —v. 1 show (a quality or
feeling) by one’s acts etc. 2 show plainly to the eye or mind. 3 be evidence of;
prove. 4 refl. (of a thing) reveal itself. 5 (of a ghost) appear. —n. Cargo or
passenger list. manifestation n. Manifestly adv. [latin manifestus]
Manifold —adj. 1 many and various. 2 having various forms, parts, applications,
etc. —n. 1 manifold thing. 2 pipe or chamber branching into several openings.
[old english: related to *many, *-fold]
Manila n. 1 (in full manila hemp) strong fibre of a kind of tree native to the
philippines. 2 (also manila) strong brown paper made from this. [manila in the
philippines]
Manipulative adj. Tending to exploit a situation, person, etc., for one’s own
ends. manipulatively adv.
Manky adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 bad, inferior, defective. 2 dirty. [obsolete mank
defective]
Manly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having qualities associated with a man (e.g. Strength
and courage). 2 befitting a man. manliness n.
Manner n. 1 way a thing is done or happens. 2 (in pl.) A social behaviour (good
manners). B polite behaviour (has no manners). C modes of life; social
conditions. 3 outward bearing, way of speaking, etc. 4 style (in the manner of
rembrandt). 5 kind, sort (not by any manner of means). in a manner of speaking
in a way; so to speak. To the manner born colloq. Naturally at ease in a
particular situation etc. [latin manus hand]
Mannered adj. 1 (in comb.) Having specified manners (ill-mannered). 2 esp. Art
full of mannerisms.
Manor n. 1 (also manor-house) large country house with lands. 2 hist. Feudal
lordship over lands. 3 slang district covered by a police station. manorial adj.
[latin maneo remain]
Manqué adj. (placed after noun) that might have been but is not (an actor
manqué). [french]
Mansard n. Roof with four sloping sides, each of which becomes steeper
halfway down. [mansart, name of an architect]
Mansion n. 1 large grand house. 2 (in pl.) Large building divided into flats.
[latin: related to *manor]
Mantilla n. Lace scarf worn by spanish women over the hair and shoulders.
[spanish: related to *mantle]
Mantis n. (pl. Same or mantises) (in full praying mantis) predatory insect that
holds its forelegs like hands folded in prayer. [greek, = prophet]
Manual —adj. 1 of or done with the hands (manual labour). 2 a worked by hand,
not automatically (manual gear-change). B (of a vehicle) worked by manual
gear-change. —n. 1 reference book. 2 organ keyboard played with the hands, not
the feet. 3 colloq. Vehicle with manual transmission. manually adv. [latin manus
hand]
Manure —n. Fertilizer, esp. Dung. —v. (-ring) apply manure to (land etc.).
[anglo-french mainoverer *manoeuvre]
Manx —adj. Of the isle of man. —n. 1 former celtic language of the isle of man.
2 (prec. By the; treated as pl.) Manx people. [old norse]
Many —adj. (more; most) great in number; numerous (many people). —n. (as
pl.) 1 many people or things. 2 (prec. By the) the majority of people. a good (or
great) many a large number. Many’s the time often. Many a time many times.
[old english]
Maoism n. Communist doctrines of mao zedong. maoist n. & adj. [mao zedong,
name of a chinese statesman]
Maori —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 member of the aboriginal people of new zealand. 2
their language. —adj. Of this people. [native name]
Map —n. 1 a flat representation of the earth’s surface, or part of it. B diagram of
a route etc. 2 similar representation of the stars, sky, moon, etc. 3 diagram
showing the arrangement or components of a thing. —v. (-pp-) 1 represent on a
map. 2 math. Associate each element of (a set) with one element of another set.
map out plan in detail. [latin mappa napkin]
Maple n. 1 any of various trees or shrubs grown for shade, ornament, wood, or
sugar. 2 its wood. [old english]
Maple sugar n. Sugar produced by evaporating the sap of some kinds of maple.
Maple syrup n. Syrup made by evaporating maple sap or dissolving maple sugar.
Marabou n. 1 large w. African stork. 2 its down as trimming etc. [french from
arabic]
Maraschino n. (pl. -s) sweet liqueur made from black cherries. [italian]
March1 —v. 1 (cause to) walk in a military manner with a regular tread (army
marched past; marched him away). 2 a walk purposefully. B (often foll. By on)
(of events etc.) Continue unrelentingly (time marches on). 3 (foll. By on)
(of events etc.) Continue unrelentingly (time marches on). 3 (foll. By on)
advance towards (a military objective). —n. 1 a act of marching. B uniform
military step (slow march). 2 long difficult walk. 3 procession as a
demonstration. 4 (usu. Foll. By of) progress or continuity (march of events). 5 a
music to accompany a march. B similar musical piece. marcher n. [french
marcher]
March2 —n. Hist. 1 (usu. In pl.) Boundary, frontier (esp. Between england and
scotland or wales). 2 tract of land between two countries, esp. Disputed. —v.
(foll. By upon, with) (of a country, an estate, etc.) Border on. [french marche
from medieval latin marca]
March1 —v. 1 (cause to) walk in a military manner with a regular tread (army
marched past; marched him away). 2 a walk purposefully. B (often foll. By on)
(of events etc.) Continue unrelentingly (time marches on). 3 (foll. By on)
advance towards (a military objective). —n. 1 a act of marching. B uniform
military step (slow march). 2 long difficult walk. 3 procession as a
demonstration. 4 (usu. Foll. By of) progress or continuity (march of events). 5 a
music to accompany a march. B similar musical piece. marcher n. [french
marcher]
March2 —n. Hist. 1 (usu. In pl.) Boundary, frontier (esp. Between england and
scotland or wales). 2 tract of land between two countries, esp. Disputed. —v.
(foll. By upon, with) (of a country, an estate, etc.) Border on. [french marche
from medieval latin marca]
March hare n. Hare exuberant in the breeding season (mad as a march hare).
Marching orders n.pl. 1 order for troops to mobilize etc. 2 dismissal (gave him
his marching orders).
March past —n. Marching of troops past a saluting-point at a review. —v. (of
troops) carry out a march past.
Mare2 n. (pl. Maria or -s) 1 large dark flat area on the moon, once thought to be
sea. 2 similar area on mars. [latin, = sea]
Mare’s tail n. 1 tall slender marsh plant. 2 (in pl.) Long straight streaks of cirrus
cloud.
Margarine n. Butter-substitute made from vegetable oils or animal fats with milk
etc. [greek margaron pearl]
Margin —n. 1 edge or border of a surface. 2 blank border flanking print etc. 3
amount by which a thing exceeds, falls short, etc. (won by a narrow margin). 4
lower limit (his effort fell below the margin). —v. (-n-) provide with a margin or
marginal notes. [latin margo -ginis]
Marigold n. Plant with golden or bright yellow flowers. [mary (probably the
virgin), gold (dial.) Marigold]
virgin), gold (dial.) Marigold]
Marinade —n. 1 mixture of wine, vinegar, oil, spices, etc., for soaking meat,
fish, etc. Before cooking. 2 meat, fish, etc., so soaked. —v. (-ding) soak in a
marinade. [spanish marinar pickle in brine: related to *marine]
Marine —adj. 1 of, found in, or produced by the sea. 2 a of shipping or naval
matters (marine insurance). B for use at sea. —n. 1 soldier trained to serve on
land or sea. 2 country’s shipping, fleet, or navy (merchant marine). [latin mare
sea]
Mariner n. Seaman.
Mark1 —n. 1 spot, sign, stain, scar, etc., on a surface etc. 2 (esp. In comb.) A
written or printed symbol (question mark). B number or letter denoting
proficiency, conduct, etc. (black mark; 46 marks out of 50). 3 (usu. Foll. By of)
sign of quality, character, feeling, etc. (mark of respect). 4 a sign, seal, etc., of
identification. B cross etc. Made as a signature by an illiterate person. 5 lasting
effect (war left its mark). 6 a target etc. (missed the mark). B standard, norm (his
work falls below the mark). 7 line etc. Indicating a position. 8 (usu. Mark)
(followed by a numeral) particular design, model, etc., of a car, aircraft, etc.
(mark 2 ford granada). 9 runner’s starting-point in a race. —v. 1 a make a mark
on. B mark with initials, name, etc. To identify etc. 2 correct and assess (a
student’s work etc.). 3 attach a price to (marked the doll at £5). 4 notice or
observe (marked his agitation). 5 a characterize (day was marked by storms). B
acknowledge, celebrate (marked the occasion with a toast). 6 name or indicate
on a map etc. (the pub isn’t marked). 7 keep close to (an opponent in sport) to
hinder him. 8 (as marked adj.) Have natural marks (is marked with dark spots).
beside (or off or wide of) the mark 1 irrelevant. 2 not accurate. Make one’s mark
attain distinction; make an impression. One’s mark colloq. Opponent, object,
etc., of one’s own size etc. (the little one’s more my mark). Mark down 1 reduce
the price of (goods etc.). 2 make a written note of. 3 reduce the examination
marks of. Mark off separate by a boundary etc. Mark out 1 plan (a course of
action etc.). 2 destine (marked out for success). 3 trace out (boundaries etc.).
Mark time 1 march on the spot without moving forward. 2 act routinely while
awaiting an opportunity to advance. Mark up 1 add a proportion to the price of
(goods etc.) For profit. 2 mark or correct (text etc.). Off the mark 1 having made
a start. 2 = beside the mark. On the mark ready to start. On your mark (or marks)
get ready to start (esp. A race). Up to the mark normal (esp. Of health). [old
english]
Marker n. 1 thing marking a position etc. 2 person or thing that marks. 3 broad-
tipped felt-tipped pen. 4 scorer in a game.
Marketeer n. 1 supporter of the ec and british membership of it. 2 marketer.
Market garden n. Farm where vegetables and fruit are grown for sale in markets.
Marl —n. Soil of clay and lime, used as fertilizer. —v. Apply marl to. marly adj.
[medieval latin margila]
Marlinspike n. Pointed iron tool used to separate strands of rope etc. [marling
from dutch marlen from marren bind]
Marmite n. Propr. Thick brown spread made from yeast and vegetable extract.
[french, = cooking-pot]
Marmot n. Heavy-set burrowing rodent with a short bushy tail. [latin mus
mouse, mons mountain]
Maroon2 v. 1 leave (a person) isolated, esp. On an island. 2 (of weather etc.)
Cause (a person) to be forcibly detained. [french marron wild person, from
spanish cimarrón]
Marque n. Make of car, as distinct from a specific model (the jaguar marque).
[french, = *mark1]
Marquis n. (pl. -quises) foreign nobleman ranking between duke and count.
[french: related to *march2]
Marriage n. 1 legal union of a man and a woman for cohabitation and often
procreation. 2 act or ceremony marking this. 3 particular such union (a happy
marriage). 4 intimate union, combination. [french marier *marry]
Marron glacé n. (pl. Marrons glacés pronunc. Same) chestnut preserved in syrup.
[french]
Marrow n. 1 large fleshy usu. Striped gourd eaten as a vegetable. 2 soft fatty
substance in the cavities of bones. 3 essential part. to the marrow right through.
[old english]
Marry v. (-ies, -ied) 1 take, join, or give in marriage. 2 a enter into marriage. B
(foll. By into) become a member of (a family) by marriage. 3 a unite intimately,
combine. B pair (socks etc.). marry off find a spouse for. Marry up link, join.
[latin maritus husband]
Marsh n. (often attrib.) Low watery land. marshy adj. (-ier, -iest). Marshiness n.
[old english]
Marshmallow n. Soft sticky sweet made of sugar, albumen, gelatin, etc. [*marsh
mallow]
Martello n. (pl. -s) (also martello tower) small circular coastal fort. [cape
mortella in corsica]
Martial arts n.pl. Oriental fighting sports such as judo and karate.
Martian —adj. Of the planet mars. —n. Hypothetical inhabitant of mars. [latin]
Martini n. (pl. -s) 1 propr. Type of vermouth. 2 cocktail of gin and french
vermouth. [martini and rossi, name of a firm selling vermouth]
Martyr —n. 1 a person killed for persisting in a belief. B person who suffers for
a cause etc. C person who suffers or pretends to suffer to get pity etc. 2 (foll. By
to) colloq. Constant sufferer from (an ailment). —v. 1 put to death as a martyr. 2
torment. martyrdom n. [greek martur witness]
Marzipan —n. Paste of ground almonds, sugar, etc., used in confectionery. —v.
(-nn-) cover with marzipan. [german from italian]
Mascara n. Cosmetic for darkening the eyelashes. [italian, = mask]
Mash —n. 1 soft or confused mixture. 2 mixture of boiled grain, bran, etc., fed
to horses etc. 3 colloq. Mashed potatoes. 4 mixture of malt and hot water used in
brewing. 5 soft pulp made by crushing, mixing with water, etc. —v. 1 crush
(potatoes etc.) To a pulp. 2 dial. A infuse (tea). B (of tea) draw. masher n. [old
english]
Mask —n. 1 covering for all or part of the face as a disguise or for protection
against infection etc. 2 respirator. 3 likeness of a person’s face, esp. One from a
mould (death-mask).
Masking tape n. Adhesive tape used in decorating to protect areas where paint is
not wanted.
Masque n. Musical drama with mime, esp. In the 16th and 17th c. [var. Of
*mask]
Masquerade —n. 1 false show, pretence. 2 masked ball. —v. (-ding) (often foll.
By as) appear falsely or in disguise. [spanish máscara mask]
Massacre —n. 1 mass killing. 2 utter defeat or destruction. —v. (-ring) 1 kill
(esp. Many people) cruelly or violently. 2 colloq. Defeat heavily. [french]
Massage —n. Rubbing and kneading of the muscles and joints with the hands, to
relieve stiffness, cure strains, stimulate, etc. —v. (-ging) 1 apply massage to. 2
manipulate (statistics etc.) To give an acceptable result. 3 flatter (a person’s ego
etc.). [french]
Masseur n. (fem. Masseuse) person who gives massage for a living. [french:
related to *massage]
Massive adj. 1 large and heavy or solid. 2 (of the features, head, etc.) Relatively
large or solid. 3 exceptionally large or severe (massive heart attack). 4
substantial, impressive. massively adv. Massiveness n. [latin: related to *mass1]
Mass noun n. Gram. Noun that is not normally countable and cannot be used
with the indefinite article (e.g. Bread).
Mast1 n. 1 long upright post of timber etc. On a ship’s keel to support sails. 2
post etc. For supporting a radio or television aerial. 3 flag-pole (half-mast).
before the mast as an ordinary seaman. masted adj. (also in comb.). Master n.
(also in comb.). [old english]
Mast2 n. Fruit of the beech, oak, etc., esp. As food for pigs. [old english]
Master —n. 1 person having control or ownership (master of the house; dog
obeyed his master; master of the hunt). 2 captain of a merchant ship. 3 male
teacher. 4 prevailing person. 5 a skilled tradesman able to teach others (often
attrib.: master carpenter). B skilled practitioner (master of innuendo). 6 holder of
a usu. Postgraduate university degree (master of arts). 7 revered teacher in
philosophy etc. 8 great artist. 9 chess etc. Player at international level. 10
original copy of a film, recording, etc., from which others can be made. 11
(master) title for a boy not old enough to be called mr. 12 archaic employer. —
attrib. Adj. 1 commanding, superior (master hand).
Master of the rolls n. Judge who presides over the court of appeal.
Mastic n. 1 gum or resin from the mastic tree, used in making varnish. 2 (in full
mastic tree) evergreen tree yielding this. 3 waterproof filler and sealant. [greek
mastikhé]
Mastiff n. Dog of a large strong breed with drooping ears. [latin mansuetus
tame]
Mastodon n. (pl. Same or -s) large extinct mammal resembling the elephant.
[greek mastos breast, odous tooth]
Mastoid —adj. Shaped like a breast. —n. 1 = *mastoid process. 2 (usu. In pl.)
Colloq. Inflammation of the mastoid process. [greek mastos breast]
Mastoid process n. Conical prominence on the temporal bone behind the ear.
Mat1 —n. 1 small piece of coarse material on a floor, esp. For wiping one’s
shoes on. 2 piece of cork, rubber, etc., to protect a surface from a hot dish etc.
Placed on it. 3 padded floor covering in gymnastics, wrestling, etc. —v. (-tt-)
(esp. As matted adj.) Entangle or become entangled in a thick mass (matted
hair). on the mat slang being reprimanded. [old english]
Matador n. Bullfighter whose task is to kill the bull. [spanish from matar kill:
related to mate in *checkmate]
Match2 n. 1 short thin piece of wood etc. With a combustible tip. 2 wick or cord
etc. For firing a cannon etc. [french mesche]
Match point n. Tennis etc. 1 position when one side needs only one more point
to win the match. 2 this point.
Mate1 —n. 1 friend or fellow worker. 2 colloq. Form of address, esp. To another
man. 3 a each of a breeding pair, esp. Of birds. B colloq. Partner in marriage. C
(in comb.) Fellow member or joint occupant of (team-mate; room-mate). 4
officer on a merchant ship. 5 assistant to a skilled worker (plumber’s mate). —v.
(-ting) (often foll. By with) 1 come or bring together for breeding. 2 mech. Fit
well. [low german]
Material —n. 1 matter from which a thing is made. 2 cloth, fabric. 3 (in pl.)
Things needed for an activity (building materials). 4 person or thing of a
specified kind or suitable for a purpose (officer material). 5 (in sing. Or pl.)
Information etc. For a book etc. 6 (in sing. Or pl., often foll. By of) elements,
constituent parts, or substance. —adj. 1 of matter; corporeal; not spiritual. 2 of
bodily comfort etc. (material well-being). 3 (often foll. By to) important,
significant, relevant. [latin materia *matter]
Materialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 become actual fact; happen. 2 colloq.
Appear or be present. 3 represent in or assume bodily form. materialization n.
Matey (also maty) —adj. (-tier, -tiest) sociable; familiar, friendly. —n. (pl. -s)
colloq. (as a form of address) mate. mateyness n. (also matiness). Matily adv.
Matins n. (also mattins) (as sing. Or pl.) Morning prayer, esp. In the church of
england. [latin matutinus of the morning]
Matricide n. 1 killing of one’s mother. 2 person who does this. [latin: related to
*mater, *-cide]
Matrix n. (pl. Matrices or -es) 1 mould in which a thing is cast or shaped. 2 place
etc. In which a thing is developed. 3 rock in which gems, fossils, etc., are
embedded. 4 math. Rectangular array of elements treated as a single element.
[latin, = womb]
Matt (also mat) —adj. Not shiny or glossy; dull. —n. (in full matt paint) paint
giving a dull flat finish. [french: related to *mate2]
Matter —n. 1 physical substance having mass and occupying space, as distinct
from mind and spirit. 2 specified substance (colouring matter; reading matter). 3
(prec. By the; often foll. By with) (thing) amiss (something the matter with him).
4 content as distinct from style, form, etc. 5 (often foll. By of, for) situation etc.
Under consideration or as an occasion for (regret etc.) (matter for concern;
matter of discipline). 6 pus or a similar substance discharged from the body. —v.
(often foll. By to) be of importance; have significance. as a matter of fact in
reality; actually. For that matter 1 as far as that is concerned. 2 and indeed also.
A matter of approximately; amounting to (a matter of 40 years). No matter 1
(foll. By when, how, etc.) Regardless of. 2 it is of no importance. [latin materia
timber, substance]
Mattock n. Agricultural tool like a pickaxe, with an adze and a chisel edge. [old
english]
Maturate v. (-ting) (of a boil etc.) Come to maturation. [latin: related to *mature]
Mature —adj. (maturer, maturest) 1 a fully developed, adult. B sensible, wise. 2
ripe; seasoned. 3 (of thought etc.) Careful, considered. 4 (of a bill, insurance
policy, etc.) Due, payable. —v. (-ring) 1 develop fully; ripen. 2 perfect (a plan
etc.). 3 (of a bill, insurance policy, etc.) Become due or payable. maturely adv.
Matureness n. Maturity n. [latin maturus timely]
Maul —v. 1 tear the flesh of; claw. 2 handle roughly. 3 damage by criticism. —
n. 1 rugby loose scrum. 2 brawl. 3 heavy hammer. [latin malleus hammer]
Maulstick n. (also mahlstick) stick held to support the hand in painting. [dutch
malen paint]
Maundy money n. Specially minted silver coins distributed by the british
sovereign on maundy thursday.
Mauve —adj. Pale purple. —n. This colour. mauvish adj. [latin: related to
*mallow]
Maxi-comb. Form very large or long. [abbreviation of maximum; cf. mini-]
Maxilla n. (pl. -llae) jaw or jawbone, esp. (in vertebrates) the upper jaw.
maxillary adj. [latin]
Usage maximize should not be used in standard english to mean ‘to make as
good as possible’ or ‘to make the most of’.
Maximum —n. (pl. -ma) highest possible amount, size, etc. —adj. Greatest in
amount, size, etc. [latin maximus greatest]
May n. 1 fifth month of the year. 2 (may) hawthorn, esp. In blossom. [latin
maius of the goddess maia]
May v.aux. (3rd sing. Present may; past might) 1 expressing: a (often foll. By
well for emphasis) possibility (it may be true; you may well lose your way). B
permission (may i come in?). C a wish (may he live to regret it). D uncertainty or
irony (who may you be?; who are you, may i ask?). 2 in purpose clauses and
after wish, fear, etc. (hope he may succeed). be that as it may (or that is as may
be) it is possible (but) (be that as it may, i still want to go). May as well = might
as well (see *might1). [old english]
Usage in sense 1b, both can and may are used to express permission; in more
formal contexts may is preferred since can also denotes capability (can i move?
= am i physically able to move?; may i move? = am i allowed to move?).
Maze n. 1 network of paths and hedges designed as a puzzle for those who enter
it. 2 labyrinth. 3 confused network, mass, etc. [related to *amaze]
Mazurka n. 1 lively polish dance in triple time. 2 music for this. [french or
german from polish]
Md symb. Mendelevium.
Me1 pron. 1 objective case of *i2 (he saw me). 2 colloq. = i2 (it’s me all right; is
taller than me). [old english accusative and dative of i2]
Me2 n. (also mi) mus. Third note of a major scale. [latin mira, word arbitrarily
taken]
Meadow n. 1 piece of grassland, esp. One used for hay. 2 low marshy ground,
esp. Near a river. meadowy adj. [old english]
Meager adj. (brit. Meagre) 1 scant in amount or quality. 2 lean, thin. [anglo-
french megre from latin macer]
Meagre adj. (us meager) 1 scant in amount or quality. 2 lean, thin. [anglo-french
megre from latin macer]
Meal1 n. 1 occasion when food is eaten. 2 the food eaten at a meal. make a meal
Meal1 n. 1 occasion when food is eaten. 2 the food eaten at a meal. make a meal
of colloq. Treat (a task etc.) Too laboriously or fussily. [old english]
Meals on wheels n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Regular voluntary esp. Lunch
deliveries to old people, invalids, etc.
Mealy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or containing meal. 2 (of a complexion) pale.
mealiness n.
Mean1 v. (past and past part. Meant) 1 have as one’s purpose or intention (meant
no harm by it; i didn’t mean to break it). 2 design or destine for a purpose (meant
to be used). 3 intend to convey or refer to (i mean richmond in surrey). 4 (often
foll. By that) entail, involve, portend, signify (this means war; means that he is
dead). 5 (of a word) have as its equivalent in the same or another language. 6
(foll. By to) be of specified importance to (that means a lot to me). mean
business colloq. Be in earnest. Mean it not be joking or exaggerating. Mean well
have good intentions. [old english]
Mean3 —n. 1 median point (mean between modesty and pride). 2 a term
midway between the first and last terms of an arithmetical etc. Progression. B
quotient of the sum of several quantities and their number; average. —adj. 1 (of
a quantity) equally far from two extremes. 2 calculated as a mean. [latin
medianus *median]
Mean3 —n. 1 median point (mean between modesty and pride). 2 a term
midway between the first and last terms of an arithmetical etc. Progression. B
quotient of the sum of several quantities and their number; average. —adj. 1 (of
a quantity) equally far from two extremes. 2 calculated as a mean. [latin
medianus *median]
Meander —v. 1 wander at random. 2 (of a stream) wind about. —n. 1 (in pl.)
Sinuous windings of a river, path, etc. 2 circuitous journey. [greek maiandros, a
winding river in ancient phrygia]
Means n.pl. 1 (often treated as sing.) Action, agent, device, or method producing
a result (means of quick travel). 2 a money resources (live beyond one’s means).
B wealth (man of means). by all means certainly. By means of by the agency etc.
Of. By no means certainly not. [from *mean3]
Mean sea level n. Level halfway between high and low water.
Means test —n. Inquiry into income as a basis for eligibility for state benefit etc.
—v. (means-test) subject to or base on a means test.
Meanwhile —adv. 1 in the intervening period of time. 2 at the same time. —n.
Intervening period (esp. In the meanwhile).
Measles n.pl. (also treated as sing.) Infectious viral disease marked by a red rash.
[low german masele or dutch masel]
Measureless adj. Not measurable; infinite.
Meat n. 1 animal flesh as food. 2 (often foll. By of) substance; chief part.
meatless adj. [old english]
Meaty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of meat; fleshy. 2 of or like meat. 3 substantial, full
of interest, satisfying. meatiness n.
Mecca n. Place one aspires to visit. [mecca, muslim holy city in arabia]
Medal n. Commemorative metal disc etc., esp. Awarded for military or sporting
prowess. [latin: related to *metal]
Medallion n. 1 large medal. 2 thing so shaped, e.g. A decorative panel etc.
[italian: related to *medal]
Meddle v. (-ling) (often foll. By with, in) interfere in others’ concerns. meddler
n. [latin: related to *mix]
Media n.pl. 1 pl. Of *medium. 2 (usu. Prec. By the) mass communications (esp.
Newspapers and broadcasting) regarded collectively.
Usage media is commonly used with a singular verb (e.g. The media is biased),
but this is not generally accepted (cf. *data).
Median —adj. Situated in the middle. —n. 1 straight line drawn from any vertex
of a triangle to the middle of the opposite side. 2 middle value of a series. [latin:
related to *medial]
Medical officer n. Person in charge of the health services of a local authority etc.
Medicament n. = *medicine 2.
Medicare n. Us federally funded health insurance scheme for the elderly. [from
medical, care]
Meditate v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By on, upon) engage in (esp. Religious)
contemplation. 2 plan mentally. meditation n. Meditator n. [latin meditor]
Medium —n. (pl. Media or -s) 1 middle quality, degree, etc. Between extremes
(find a happy medium). 2 means of communication (medium of television). 3
substance, e.g. Air, through which sense-impressions are conveyed. 4 physical
environment etc. Of a living organism. 5 means. 6 material or form used by an
artist, composer, etc. 7 liquid (e.g. Oil or gel) used for diluting paints. 8 (pl. -s)
person claiming to communicate with the dead. —adj. 1 between two qualities,
degrees, etc. 2 average (of medium height). [latin medius middle]
Medium wave n. Radio wave of frequency between 300 khz and 3 mhz.
Medlar n. 1 tree bearing small brown apple-like fruits, eaten when decayed. 2
such a fruit. [french medler from greek mespile]
Medley n. (pl. -s) 1 varied mixture. 2 collection of tunes etc. Played as one piece.
[french medlee]
Medulla n. 1 inner part of certain organs etc., e.g. The kidney. 2 soft internal
tissue of plants. medullary adj. [latin]
Meek adj. Humble and submissive or gentle. meekly adv. Meekness n. [old
norse]
Meet1 —v. (past and past part. Met) 1 encounter (a person etc.) Or (of two or
more people) come together by accident or design; come face to face (with) (met
on the bridge). 2 be present by design at the arrival of (a person, train, etc.). 3
come or seem to come together or into contact (with); join (where the sea and
the sky meet; jacket won’t meet). 4 make the acquaintance of (delighted to meet
you; all met at oxford). 5 come together for business, worship, etc. (union met
management). 6 a deal with or answer (a demand, objection, etc.) (met the
proposal with hostility). B satisfy or conform with (agreed to meet the new
terms). 7 pay (a bill etc.); honour (a cheque) (meet the cost). 8 (often foll. By
with) experience, encounter, or receive (met their death; met with hostility). 9
confront in battle etc. —n. 1 assembly for a hunt. 2 assembly for sport, esp.
Athletics. make ends meet see *end. Meet the case be adequate. Meet the eye be
visible or evident. Meet a person half way compromise with. Meet up colloq.
(often foll. By with) = sense 1 of v. Meet with 1 see sense 8 of v. 2 receive (a
reaction) (met with her approval). 3 esp. Us = sense 1 of v. [old english]
Megahertz n. (pl. Same) one million hertz, esp. As a measure of radio frequency.
Megalosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) large flesh-eating dinosaur with stout hind legs and
small forelimbs. [greek megas great, sauros lizard]
Meiosis n. (pl. Meioses) 1 cell division that results in gametes with half the
normal chromosome number. 2 = *litotes. [greek meion less]
Melanin n. Dark pigment in the hair, skin, etc., causing tanning in sunlight.
[greek melas black]
Melee n. (brit. Mêlée) 1 confused fight, skirmish, or scuffle. 2 muddle. [french:
related to *medley]
Mellifluous adj. (of a voice etc.) Pleasing, musical, flowing. mellifluously adv.
Mellifluousness n. [latin mel honey, fluo flow]
Mellow —adj. 1 (of sound, colour, light) soft and rich, free from harshness. 2 (of
character) gentle; mature. 3 genial, jovial. 4 euphem. Partly intoxicated. 5 (of
fruit) soft, sweet, and juicy. 6 (of wine) well-matured, smooth. 7 (of earth) rich,
loamy. —v. Make or become mellow. mellowly adv. Mellowness n. [origin
unknown]
Melon n. 1 sweet fleshy fruit of various climbing plants of the gourd family. 2
such a gourd. [greek melon apple]
Memento mori n. Skull etc. As a reminder of death. [latin, = remember you must
die]
Memorandum n. (pl. -da or -s) 1 note or record for future use. 2 informal written
message, esp. In business, diplomacy, etc. [see *memorable]
Memory n. (pl. -ies) 1 faculty by which things are recalled to or kept in the
mind. 2 a this in an individual (my memory is failing). B store of things
remembered (deep in my memory). 3 recollection; remembrance, esp. Of a
person etc.; person or thing remembered (memory of better times; his mother’s
memory). 4 storage capacity of a computer etc. 5 posthumous reputation (his
memory lives on; of blessed memory). 6 length of remembered time of a specific
person, group, etc. (within living memory). 7 remembering (deed worthy of
memory). from memory as remembered (without checking). In memory of to
keep alive the remembrance of. [latin memoria from memor mindful]
Menace —n. 1 threat. 2 dangerous thing or person. 3 joc. Pest, nuisance. —v. (-
cing) threaten. menacingly adv. [latin minax from minor threaten]
cing) threaten. menacingly adv. [latin minax from minor threaten]
Mend —v. 1 restore to good condition; repair. 2 regain health. 3 improve (mend
matters). —n. Darn or repair in material etc. mend one’s ways reform oneself.
On the mend recovering, esp. In health. [anglo-french: related to *amend]
Mendicant —adj. 1 begging. 2 (of a friar) living solely on alms. —n. 1 beggar. 2
mendicant friar. [latin mendicus beggar]
Menhir n. Usu. Prehistoric monument of a tall upright stone. [breton men stone,
hir long]
Menial —adj. (of esp. Work) degrading, servile. —n. Domestic servant. [anglo-
french meinie retinue]
Meninges n.pl. Three membranes enclosing the brain and spinal cord. [greek
menigx membrane]
Menses n.pl. Flow of menstrual blood etc. [latin, pl. Of mensis month]
-ment suffix 1 forming nouns expressing the means or result of verbal action
(abridgement; embankment). 2 forming nouns from adjectives (merriment;
oddment). [latin -mentum]
Mental adj. 1 of, in, or done by the mind. 2 caring for mental patients. 3 colloq.
Insane. mentally adv. [latin mens ment-mind]
Insane. mentally adv. [latin mens ment-mind]
Mention —v. 1 refer to briefly or by name. 2 reveal or disclose (do not mention
this to anyone). 3 (usu. As mention in dispatches) award a minor military honour
to in war. —n. 1 reference, esp. By name. 2 minor military or other honour.
don’t mention it polite reply to an apology or thanks. Not to mention and also.
[latin mentio]
[latin mentio]
Mercenary —adj. Primarily concerned with or working for money etc. —n. (pl. -
ies) hired soldier in foreign service. mercenariness n. [latin from merces reward]
Mercerize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) treat (cotton) with caustic alkali to
strengthen and make lustrous. [mercer, name of its alleged inventor]
Merchandise —n. Goods for sale. —v. (-sing) 1 trade, traffic (in). 2 advertise or
promote (goods, an idea, or a person). [french: related to *merchant]
Merchant n. 1 wholesale trader, esp. With foreign countries. 2 esp. Us & scot.
Retail trader. 3 colloq. Usu. Derog. Person devoted to a specified activity etc.
(speed merchant). [latin mercor trade (v.)]
Mercifully adv. 1 in a merciful manner. 2 fortunately (mercifully, the sun came
out).
Mere1 attrib. Adj. (merest) being solely or only what is specified (a mere boy;
no mere theory). merely adv. [latin merus unmixed]
Merganser n. (pl. Same or -s) a diving duck. [latin mergus diver, anser goose]
Meringue n. 1 sugar, whipped egg-whites, etc., baked crisp. 2 small cake of this,
esp. Filled with whipped cream. [french]
Merino n. (pl. -s) 1 (in full merino sheep) variety of sheep with long fine wool. 2
soft cashmere-like material, orig. Of merino wool. 3 fine woollen yarn. [spanish]
Meritocracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 government by those selected for merit. 2 group
selected in this way. 3 society governed thus.
Mermaid n. Legendary creature with a woman’s head and trunk and a fish’s tail.
[from *mere2 ‘sea’, *maid]
Merry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a joyous. B full of laughter or gaiety. 2 colloq. Slightly
drunk. make merry be festive. merrily adv. Merriment n. Merriness n. [old
english]
Mescal buttons n.pl. Disc-shaped dried tops from the mescal, esp. As an
Mescal buttons n.pl. Disc-shaped dried tops from the mescal, esp. As an
intoxicant.
Mesh —n. 1 network fabric or structure. 2 each of the open spaces in a net or
sieve etc. 3 (in pl.) A network. B snare. —v. 1 (often foll. By with) (of the teeth
of a wheel) be engaged. 2 be harmonious. 3 catch in a net. in mesh (of the teeth
of wheels) engaged. [dutch]
Mesolithic adj. Of the part of the stone age between the palaeolithic and
neolithic periods. [greek lithos stone]
Messiah n. 1 a promised deliverer of the jews. B christ regarded as this. 2
liberator of an oppressed people. [hebrew, = anointed]
Met2 adj. Colloq. 1 meteorological. 2 metropolitan. 3 (the met) a (in full the met
office) meteorological office. B metropolitan police in london. [abbreviation]
Metabolism n. All the chemical processes in a living organism producing energy
and growth. metabolic adj. [greek metabole change: related to *meta-, greek
ballo throw]
Metacarpus n. (pl. -carpi) 1 part of the hand between the wrist and the fingers. 2
set of five bones in this. metacarpal adj. [related to meta-, carpus]
Metal —n. 1 a any of a class of workable elements such as gold, silver, iron, or
tin, usu. Good conductors of heat and electricity and forming basic oxides. B
alloy of any of these. 2 molten material for making glass. 3 (in pl.) Rails of a
railway line. 4 = *road-metal. —adj. Made of metal. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 make or
mend (a road) with road-metal. 2 cover or fit with metal. [greek metallon mine]
Metallic adj. 1 of or like metal or metals (metallic taste). 2 sounding like struck
metal. 3 shiny (metallic blue). metallically adv.
Metallize v. (also -ise; us metalize) (-zing or -sing) 1 render metallic. 2 coat with
a thin layer of metal.
Metaphysics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) 1 branch of philosophy dealing with the
nature of existence, truth, and knowledge. 2 colloq. Abstract talk; mere theory.
[greek, as having followed physics in aristotle’s works]
Metatarsus n. (pl. -tarsi) 1 part of the foot between the ankle and the toes. 2 set
of five bones in this. metatarsal adj. [related to meta-, tarsus]
Meteor n. 1 small solid body from outer space that becomes incandescent when
entering the earth’s atmosphere. 2 streak of light from a meteor. [greek meteoros
lofty]
Meteoric adj. 1 rapid; dazzling (meteoric rise to fame). 2 of meteors.
meteorically adv.
Meteoroid n. Small body that becomes visible as it passes through the earth’s
atmosphere as a meteor.
Meter1 —n. 1 instrument that measures or records, esp. Gas, electricity, etc.
Used, distance travelled, etc. 2 = parking-meter. —v. Measure or record by
meter. [from mete]
Meter1 n. (brit. Metre) metric unit and the base si unit of linear measure, equal to
about 39.4 inches. metreage n. [greek metron measure]
Meter2 n. (brit. Metre) 1 a poetic rhythm, esp. As determined by the number and
length of feet in a line. B metrical group or measure. 2 basic rhythm of music.
[related to *metre1]
Meticulous adj. 1 giving great attention to detail. 2 very careful and precise.
meticulously adv. Meticulousness n. [latin metus fear]
Metre1 n. (us meter) metric unit and the base si unit of linear measure, equal to
about 39.4 inches. metreage n. [greek metron measure]
Metre2 n. (us meter) 1 a poetic rhythm, esp. As determined by the number and
length of feet in a line. B metrical group or measure. 2 basic rhythm of music.
[related to *metre1]
Metric system n. Decimal measuring system with the metre, litre, and gram (or
kilogram) as units of length, volume, and mass.
Metro n. (pl. -s) underground railway system, esp. In paris. [french shortened
from métropolitain metropolitan]
-metry comb. Form forming nouns denoting procedures and systems involving
measurement (geometry).
Mev abbr. Mega-electronvolt(s).
Mew1 —n. Characteristic cry of a cat, gull, etc. —v. Utter this sound. [imitative]
Mews n. (treated as sing.) Stabling round a yard etc., now used esp. For housing.
[originally sing. Mew ‘cage for hawks’: french from latin muto change]
Meticulous adj. 1 giving great attention to detail. 2 very careful and precise.
meticulously adv. Meticulousness n. [latin metus fear]
Metre1 n. (us meter) metric unit and the base si unit of linear measure, equal to
about 39.4 inches. metreage n. [greek metron measure]
Metre2 n. (us meter) 1 a poetic rhythm, esp. As determined by the number and
length of feet in a line. B metrical group or measure. 2 basic rhythm of music.
[related to *metre1]
Metric system n. Decimal measuring system with the metre, litre, and gram (or
kilogram) as units of length, volume, and mass.
Metro n. (pl. -s) underground railway system, esp. In paris. [french shortened
from métropolitain metropolitan]
-metry comb. Form forming nouns denoting procedures and systems involving
measurement (geometry).
measurement (geometry).
Mew1 —n. Characteristic cry of a cat, gull, etc. —v. Utter this sound. [imitative]
Mews n. (treated as sing.) Stabling round a yard etc., now used esp. For housing.
[originally sing. Mew ‘cage for hawks’: french from latin muto change]
Mezzanine n. Storey between two others (usu. Between the ground and first
floors). [italian: related to *median]
Mezzo mus. —adv. Half, moderately. —n. (in full mezzo-soprano) (pl. -s) 1
female singing-voice between soprano and contralto. 2 singer with this voice.
female singing-voice between soprano and contralto. 2 singer with this voice.
[latin medius middle]
Mg symb. Magnesium.
Mg abbr. Milligram(s).
Miaow —n. Characteristic cry of a cat. —v. Make this cry. [imitative]
Mickey n. (also micky) take the mickey (often foll. By out of) slang tease, mock,
ridicule. [origin uncertain]
Mickey finn n. Slang drugged drink intended to make the victim unconscious.
[origin uncertain]
Mickle n. (also muckle) archaic or scot. Large amount. many a little makes a
mickle (orig. Erroneously many a mickle makes a muckle) small amounts
accumulate. [old norse]
Microcosm n. (often foll. By of) miniature representation, e.g. Mankind or a
community seen as a small-scale model of the universe; epitome. microcosmic
adj. [from micro-, cosmos]
Microfiche n. (pl. Same or -s) small flat piece of film bearing microphotographs
of documents etc. [from *micro-, french fiche slip of paper]
Micro-organism n. Microscopic organism, e.g. Bacteria, protozoa, and viruses.
Microphone n. Instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy for
reconversion into sound after transmission or recording. [from *micro-, greek
phone sound]
Mid attrib. Adj. (usu. In comb.) The middle of (mid-air; mid-june). [old english]
Midday n. (often attrib.) Middle of the day; noon. [old english: related to mid,
day]
Middle age n. Period between youth and old age. middle-aged adj.
Middle ages n. (prec. By the) period of european history from c.1000 to 1453.
Middle c n. C near the middle of the piano keyboard, (in notation) the note
between the treble and bass staves.
Middle class n. Social class between the upper and the lower, including
professional and business workers. middle-class adj.
Middle distance n. 1 (in a landscape) part between the foreground and the
background. 2 athletics race distance of esp. 400 or 800 metres.
Middle east n. (prec. By the) area covered by countries from egypt to iran
inclusive. middle eastern adj.
Middle name n. 1 name between first name and surname. 2 colloq. Person’s
Middle name n. 1 name between first name and surname. 2 colloq. Person’s
most characteristic quality (tact is my middle name).
Midfield n. Football central part of the pitch, away from the goals. midfielder n.
Midland —n. 1 (the midlands) inland counties of central england. 2 middle part
of a country. —adj. Of or in the midland or midlands.
Midnight blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) very dark blue.
Midnight sun n. Sun visible at midnight during the summer in polar regions.
Mid-off n. Cricket position of the fielder near the bowler on the off side.
Mid-on n. Cricket position of the fielder near the bowler on the on side.
Midriff n. Front of the body just above the waist. [old english, = mid-belly]
Midst —prep. Poet. Amidst. —n. Middle. in the midst of among; in the middle
of. In our (or your or their) midst among us (or you or them). [related to *mid]
Midstream —n. Middle of a stream etc. —adv. (also in midstream) in the middle
of an action etc. (abandoned the project midstream).
Midway adv. In or towards the middle of the distance between two points.
Midwicket n. Cricket position of a fielder on the leg side opposite the middle of
Midwicket n. Cricket position of a fielder on the leg side opposite the middle of
the pitch.
Midwinter n. Period of or near the winter solstice, about 22 dec. [old english]
Might2 n. Strength, power. with might and main with all one’s power. [old
english: related to *may]
Mightn’t contr. Might not.
Mighty —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 powerful, strong. 2 massive, bulky. 3 colloq. Great,
considerable. —adv. Colloq. Very (mighty difficult). mightily adv. Mightiness n.
[old english: related to *might2]
Migrate v. (-ting) 1 move from one place and settle in another, esp. Abroad. 2
(of a bird or fish) change its habitation seasonally. 3 move under natural forces.
migration n. Migrator n. Migratory adj. [latin migro]
Mild —adj. 1 (esp. Of a person) gentle and conciliatory. 2 not severe or harsh. 3
(of the weather) moderately warm. 4 (of flavour etc.) Not sharp or strong. 5
tame, feeble; lacking vivacity. —n. Dark mild draught beer (cf. *bitter). mildish
adj. Mildness n. [old english]
Mile n. 1 (also statute mile) unit of linear measure equal to 1,760 yards (approx.
1.6 kilometres). 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Great distance or amount (miles better). 3 race
extending over a mile. [latin mille thousand]
Mileage n. (also milage) 1 number of miles travelled, esp. By a vehicle per unit
of fuel. 2 colloq. Profit, advantage.
Milfoil n. Common yarrow with small white flowers. [latin: related to mile,
foil2]
Militarize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 equip with military resources. 2 make
Militarize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 equip with military resources. 2 make
military or warlike. 3 imbue with militarism. militarization n.
Military honours n.pl. Burial rites of a soldier, royalty, etc., performed by the
military.
Militate v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By against) have force or effect; tell. [latin: related
to *military]
Milk —n. 1 opaque white fluid secreted by female mammals for the nourishment
of their young. 2 milk of cows, goats, or sheep as food. 3 milklike juice of the
coconut etc. —v. 1 draw milk from (a cow etc.). 2 exploit (a person or situation)
to the utmost. [old english]
Milk round n. 1 fixed route for milk delivery. 2 regular trip with calls at several
places.
Milky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or mixed with milk. 2 (of a gem or liquid)
cloudy; not clear. milkiness n.
Mill —n. 1 a building fitted with a mechanical device for grinding corn. B such
a device. 2 device for grinding any solid to powder etc. (pepper-mill). 3 a
building fitted with machinery for manufacturing processes etc. (cotton-mill). B
such machinery. —v. 1 grind (corn), produce (flour), or hull (seeds) in a mill. 2
(esp. As milled adj.) Produce a ribbed edge on (a coin). 3 cut or shape (metal)
with a rotating tool. 4 (often foll. By about, around) move aimlessly, esp. In a
confused mass. go (or put) through the mill undergo (or cause to undergo)
intensive work, pain, training, etc. [latin molo grind]
Millefeuille n. Rich cake of puff pastry split and filled with jam, cream, etc.
[french, = thousand-leaf]
Millet n. 1 cereal plant bearing small nutritious seeds. 2 seed of this. [latin
milium]
Millibar n. Unit of atmospheric pressure equivalent to 100 pascals.
Milliner n. Person who makes or sells women’s hats. millinery n. [milan in italy]
Million n. & adj. (pl. Same or (in sense 2) -s) (in sing. Prec. By a or one) 1
thousand thousand. 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Very large number. 3 million pounds or
dollars. millionth adj. & n. [french, probably from italian mille thousand]
Millstone n. 1 each of two circular stones for grinding corn. 2 heavy burden or
responsibility.
Mime —n. 1 acting without words, using only gestures. 2 performance using
mime. 3 (also mime artist) mime actor. —v. (-ming) 1 (also absol.) Convey by
mime. 2 (often foll. By to) mouth words etc. In time with a soundtrack (mime to
a record). [greek mimos]
Mimic —v. (-ck-) 1 imitate (a person, gesture, etc.) Esp. To entertain or ridicule.
2 copy minutely or servilely. 3 resemble closely. —n. Person skilled in imitation.
mimicry n. [greek mimikos: related to *mime]
Mimosa n. 1 shrub with globular usu. Yellow flowers. 2 acacia plant with showy
yellow flowers. [latin: related to *mime]
Minaret n. Slender turret next to a mosque, from which the muezzin calls at
hours of prayer. [french or spanish from turkish from arabic]
Mince —v. (-cing) 1 cut up or grind (esp. Meat) finely. 2 (usu. As mincing adj.)
Speak or esp. Walk effeminately or affectedly. —n. Minced meat. mince matters
(or one’s words) (usu. With neg.) Speak evasively or unduly mildly. mincer n.
[latin minutia something small]
Minded adj. 1 (in comb.) A inclined to think in some specified way, or with a
specified interest (mathematically minded; fair-minded; car-minded). B having a
specified kind of mind (high-minded). 2 (usu. Foll. By to + infin.) Disposed or
inclined.
Mindful adj. (often foll. By of) taking heed or care; giving thought (to).
mindfully adv.
Mine1 poss. Pron. The one(s) of or belonging to me (it is mine; mine are over
there). of mine of or belonging to me (a friend of mine). [old english]
Mine2 —n. 1 excavation to extract metal, coal, salt, etc. 2 abundant source (of
information etc.). 3 military explosive device placed in the ground or in the
water. —v. (-ning) 1 obtain (metal, coal, etc.) From a mine. 2 (also absol., often
foll. By for) dig in (the earth etc.) For ore etc. Or to tunnel. 3 lay explosive
mines under or in. mining n. [french]
Mineralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) impregnate (water etc.) With a mineral
substance.
Mineworker n. Miner.
Ming n. (often attrib.) Chinese porcelain made during the ming dynasty (1368–
1644).
Mingle v. (-ling) 1 mix, blend. 2 (often foll. By with) mix socially. [old english]
Mingy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Mean, stingy. mingily adv. [probably from
*mean2, *stingy]
Mini n. (pl. -s) 1 colloq. Miniskirt. 2 (mini) propr. Make of small car.
[abbreviation]
Minimize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 reduce to, or estimate at, the smallest
possible amount or degree. 2 estimate or represent at less than true value or
importance. minimization n.
Minister of state n. Government minister, esp. Holding a rank below that of head
of department.
Mink n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 small semi-aquatic stoatlike animal bred for its thick
brown fur. 2 this fur. 3 coat of this. [swedish]
Minoan —adj. Of the bronze age civilization centred on crete (c.3000–1100 bc).
—n. Person of this civilization. [minos, legendary king of crete]
Minority n. (pl. -ies) 1 (often foll. By of) smaller number or part, esp. In politics.
2 state of having less than half the votes or support (in the minority). 3 small
group of people differing from others in race, religion, language, etc. 4 (attrib.)
Of or done by the minority (minority interests). 5 a being under full legal age.
Mint2 —n. 1 (esp. State) establishment where money is coined. 2 colloq. Vast
sum (making a mint). —v. 1 make (a coin) by stamping metal. 2 invent, coin (a
word, phrase, etc.). in mint condition as new. [latin moneta]
Minuet —n. 1 slow stately dance for two in triple time. 2 music for this, often as
a movement in a suite etc. —v. (-t-) dance a minuet. [french diminutive]
Minus —prep. 1 with the subtraction of (7 minus 4 equals 3). 2 below zero
(minus 2°). 3 colloq. Lacking (returned minus their dog). —adj. 1 math.
Negative. 2 electronics having a negative charge. —n. 1 = *minus sign. 2 math.
Negative quantity. 3 colloq. Disadvantage. [latin, neuter of *minor]
Minute1 —n. 1 sixtieth part of an hour. 2 distance covered in one minute (ten
minutes from the shops). 3 a moment (expecting her any minute). B (prec. By
the) colloq. Present time (not here at the minute). C (prec. By the, foll. By a
clause) as soon as (the minute you get back). 4 sixtieth part of an angular degree.
5 (in pl.) Summary of the proceedings of a meeting. 6 official memorandum
authorizing or recommending a course of action. —v. (-ting) 1 record in
minutes. 2 send the minutes of a meeting to. up to the minute completely up to
date. [latin minuo lessen]
Minute2 adj. (-est) 1 very small. 2 accurate, detailed. minutely adv. [latin
minutus: related to *minute1]
Minutiae n.pl. Very small, precise, or minor details. [latin: related to *minute1]
Miocene geol. —adj. Of the fourth epoch of the tertiary period. —n. This epoch.
[greek meion less, kainos new]
Mire —n. 1 area of swampy ground. 2 mud, dirt. —v. (-ring) 1 plunge or sink in
a mire. 2 involve in difficulties. 3 bespatter; besmirch. miry adj. [old norse]
Mirror image n. Identical image or reflection with left and right reversed.
Mis-1 prefix added to verbs and verbal derivatives: meaning ‘amiss’, ‘badly’,
‘wrongly’, ‘unfavourably’ (mislead; misshapen; mistrust). [old english]
Mis-2 prefix occurring in some verbs, nouns, and adjectives meaning ‘badly’,
‘wrongly’, ‘amiss’, ‘ill-’, or having a negative force (misadventure; mischief).
[latin minus]
Misappropriate v. (-ting) take (another’s money etc.) For one’s own use;
embezzle. misappropriation n.
Miscarry v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (of a woman) have a miscarriage. 2 (of a plan etc.) Fail.
Miscast v. (past and past part. -cast) allot an unsuitable part to (an actor) or
unsuitable actors to (a play etc.).
Mischief n. 1 troublesome, but not malicious, conduct, esp. Of children (get into
mischief). 2 playfulness; malice (eyes full of mischief). 3 harm, injury (do
someone a mischief). make mischief create discord. [french: related to *mis-2,
chever happen]
Miscopy v. (-ies, -ied) copy inaccurately.
Misdial v. (also absol.) (-ll-; us -l-) dial (a telephone number etc.) Incorrectly.
Misdoing n. Misdeed.
Miser n. 1 person who hoards wealth and lives miserably. 2 avaricious person.
miserly adj. [latin, = wretched]
Misericord n. Projection under a choir stall seat serving (when the seat is turned
up) to support a person standing. [latin misericordia pity]
Misfield —v. (also absol.) (in cricket, baseball, etc.) Field (the ball) badly. —n.
Instance of this. [from *mis-1]
Misfire —v. (-ring) 1 (of a gun, motor engine, etc.) Fail to go off or start or
function smoothly. 2 (of a plan etc.) Fail to have the intended effect. —n. Such
failure.
Misgive v. (-ving; past -gave; past part. -given) (of a person’s mind, heart, etc.)
Fill (a person) with suspicion or foreboding.
Mishit —v. (-tt-; past and past part. -hit) hit (a ball etc.) Badly. —n. Faulty or
bad hit.
Misinterpret v. (-t-) 1 interpret wrongly. 2 draw a wrong inference from.
misinterpretation n.
Misjudge v. (-ging) (also absol.) 1 judge wrongly. 2 have a wrong opinion of.
misjudgement n. (also -judgment).
Mislay v. (past and past part. -laid) accidentally put (a thing) where it cannot
readily be found.
Mislead v. (past and past part. -led) cause to infer what is not true; deceive.
misleading adj. [old english]
Miss1 —v. 1 (also absol.) Fail to hit, reach, find, catch, etc. (an object or goal). 2
fail to catch (a bus, train, etc.) Or see (an event) or meet (a person). 3 fail to seize
(an opportunity etc.) (missed my chance). 4 fail to hear or understand (missed
what you said). 5 a regret the loss or absence of (did you miss me?). B notice the
loss or absence of (won’t be missed until evening). 6 avoid (go early to miss the
traffic). 7 (of an engine etc.) Fail, misfire. —n. Failure to hit, reach, attain,
connect, etc. be missing not have (am missing a page) (see also *missing).
Missal n. Rc ch. 1 book containing the texts for the mass throughout the year. 2
book of prayers. [latin missa *mass2]
Missing adj. 1 not in its place; lost. 2 (of a person) not yet traced or confirmed as
alive but not known to be dead. 3 not present.
Missionary —adj. Of or concerned with religious missions. —n. (pl. -ies) person
doing missionary work. [latin: related to *mission]
Missionary position n. Colloq. Position for sexual intercourse with the woman
lying on her back and the man lying on top and facing her.
Missis n. (also missus) colloq. Or joc. 1 form of address to a woman. 2 wife. the
missis my or your wife. [from *mistress]
Misspend v. (past and past part. -spent) (esp. As misspent adj.) Spend amiss or
wastefully.
Mist —n. 1 a water vapour near the ground in minute droplets limiting visibility.
B condensed vapour obscuring glass etc. 2 dimness or blurring of the sight
caused by tears etc. 3 cloud of particles resembling mist. —v. (usu. Foll. By up,
over) cover or become covered with mist or as with mist. [old english]
Mister n. Colloq. Or joc. Form of address to a man. [from *master; cf. *mr]
Mistle thrush n. (also missel thrush) large thrush with a spotted breast, feeding
on mistletoe berries. [old english]
Mistletoe n. Parasitic plant with white berries growing on apple and other trees.
[old english]
Mistook past of *mistake.
Mistrust —v. 1 be suspicious of. 2 feel no confidence in. —n. 1 suspicion. 2 lack
of confidence. mistrustful adj. Mistrustfully adv.
Misty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or covered with mist. 2 dim in outline. 3 obscure,
vague (misty idea). mistily adv. Mistiness n. [old english: related to *mist]
Misuse —v. (-sing) 1 use wrongly; apply to the wrong purpose. 2 ill-treat. —n.
Wrong or improper use or application.
Mite1 n. Small arachnid, esp. Of a kind found in cheese etc. [old english]
Mite2 n. 1 any small monetary unit. 2 small object or person, esp. A child. 3
modest contribution. [probably the same as *mite1]
Miter (brit. Mitre) —n. 1 tall deeply-cleft headdress worn by bishops and abbots,
esp. As a symbol of office. 2 joint of two pieces of wood etc. At an angle of 90°,
such that the line of junction bisects this angle. —v. (-ring) 1 bestow a mitre on.
2 join with a mitre. [greek mitra turban]
Mitigate v. (-ting) make less intense or severe. mitigation n. [latin mitis mild]
Mitosis n. Biol. Type of cell division that results in two nuclei each having the
same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus. mitotic adj. [greek
mitos thread]
Mitre (us miter) —n. 1 tall deeply-cleft headdress worn by bishops and abbots,
esp. As a symbol of office. 2 joint of two pieces of wood etc. At an angle of 90°,
such that the line of junction bisects this angle. —v. (-ring) 1 bestow a mitre on.
2 join with a mitre. [greek mitra turban]
Mitt n. 1 (also mitten) glove with only two compartments, one for the thumb and
the other for all four fingers. 2 glove leaving the fingers and thumb-tip exposed.
3 slang hand or fist. 4 baseball glove. [latin: related to *moiety]
Mix —v. 1 combine or put together (two or more substances or things) so that
the constituents of each are diffused among those of the other(s). 2 prepare (a
compound, cocktail, etc.) By combining the ingredients. 3 combine (activities
etc.) (mix business and pleasure). 4 a join, be mixed, or combine, esp. Readily
(oil and water will not mix). B be compatible. C be sociable (must learn to mix).
5 a (foll. By with) (of a person) be harmonious or sociable with; have regular
dealings with. B (foll. By in) participate in. 6 drink different kinds of (alcoholic
liquor) in close succession. 7 combine (two or more sound signals) into one. —n.
1 a mixing; mixture. B proportion of materials in a mixture. 2 ingredients
prepared commercially for making a cake, concrete, etc. be mixed up in (or with)
be involved in or with (esp. Something undesirable). Mix it colloq. Start
fighting. Mix up 1 mix thoroughly. 2 confuse. [back-formation from *mixed]
Mixed doubles n.pl. Tennis doubles game with a man and a woman on each side.
Mixer n. 1 machine for mixing foods etc. 2 person who manages socially in a
specified way (a good mixer). 3 (usu. Soft) drink to be mixed with another. 4
device that receives two or more separate signals from microphones etc. And
combines them in a single output.
Mixer tap n. Tap through which both hot and cold water can be drawn together.
Mixture n. 1 process or result of mixing. 2 combination of ingredients, qualities,
characteristics, etc. [latin: related to *mixed]
Mizen n. (also mizzen) (in full mizen-sail) lowest fore-and-aft sail of a fully
rigged ship’s mizen-mast. [italian: related to *mezzanine]
Mm abbr. Millimetre(s).
Mn symb. Manganese.
Mo symb. Molybdenum.
Moa n. (pl. -s) extinct flightless new zealand bird resembling the ostrich. [maori]
Moat n. Defensive ditch round a castle etc., usu. Filled with water. [french mote
mound]
Mob —n. 1 disorderly crowd; rabble. 2 (prec. By the) usu. Derog. The populace.
3 colloq. Gang; group. —v. (-bb-) crowd round in order to attack or admire.
[latin mobile vulgus excitable crowd]
Mob-cap n. Hist. Woman’s large indoor cap covering all the hair. [obsolete mob,
originally = slut]
Mobile —adj. 1 movable; able to move easily or get out and about. 2 (of the face
etc.) Readily changing its expression. 3 (of a shop etc.) Accommodated in a
vehicle so as to serve various places. 4 (of a person) able to change his or her
social status. —n. Decoration that may be hung so as to turn freely. mobility n.
[latin moveo move]
Mobile home n. Large caravan usu. Permanently parked and used as a residence.
Mobilize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) esp. Mil. Make or become ready for
service or action. mobilization n.
Möbius strip n. Math. One-sided surface formed by joining the ends of a narrow
rectangle after twisting one end through 180°. [möbius, name of a
mathematician]
Mocha n. 1 coffee of fine quality. 2 flavouring made with this. [mocha, port on
the red sea]
Mock —v. 1 (often foll. By at) ridicule; scoff (at); act with scorn or contempt
for. 2 mimic contemptuously. 3 defy or delude contemptuously. —attrib. Adj. 1
sham, imitation. 2 as a trial run (mock exam). —n. (in pl.) Colloq. Mock
examinations. mockingly adv. [french moquer]
Mocker n. Person who mocks. put the mockers on slang 1 bring bad luck to. 2
put a stop to.
Mock turtle soup n. Soup made from a calf’s head etc. To resemble turtle soup.
Mod colloq. —adj. Modern. —n. Young person (esp. In the 1960s) of a group
known for its smart modern dress. [abbreviation]
Modal adj. 1 of mode or form, not of substance. 2 gram. A of the mood of a
verb. B (of an auxiliary verb, e.g. Would) used to express the mood of another
verb. 3 mus. Denoting a style of music using a particular mode. [latin: related to
*mode]
Modern —adj. 1 of present and recent times. 2 in current fashion; not antiquated.
—n. Person living in modern times. modernity n. [latin modo just now]
Modernize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make modern; adapt to modern needs
or habits. 2 adopt modern ways or views. modernization n.
Modicum n. (foll. By of) small quantity. [latin: related to *mode]
Modify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make less severe or extreme. 2 make partial changes in. 3
gram. Qualify or expand the sense of (a word etc.). [latin: related to *mode]
Modulus n. (pl. Moduli) math. Constant factor or ratio. [latin, = measure: related
to *mode]
Mohair n. 1 hair of the angora goat. 2 yarn or fabric from this. [ultimately from
arabic, = choice]
Mohican —adj. (of a hairstyle) with the head shaved except for a strip of hair
from the middle of the forehead to the back of the neck, often worn in long
spikes. —n. Such a hairstyle. [mohicans, n. American indian people]
Moiety n. (pl. -ies) law or literary 1 half. 2 each of the two parts of a thing. [latin
medietas from medius middle]
Moire n. (in full moire antique) watered fabric, usu. Silk. [french: related to
Moire n. (in full moire antique) watered fabric, usu. Silk. [french: related to
*mohair]
Moiré adj. 1 (of silk) watered. 2 (of metal) having a clouded appearance. [french:
related to *moire]
Moiré pattern n. Pattern observed when one pattern of lines etc. Is superimposed
on another.
Moisturize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make less dry (esp. The skin by use of a
cosmetic). moisturizer n.
Molar —adj. (usu. Of a mammal’s back teeth) serving to grind. —n. Molar
tooth. [latin mola millstone]
Molasses n.pl. (treated as sing.) 1 uncrystallized syrup extracted from raw sugar.
2 us treacle. [portuguese from latin mel honey]
Mold1 (brit. Mould) —n. 1 hollow container into which a substance is poured or
pressed to harden into a required shape. 2 a vessel for shaping puddings etc. B
pudding etc. Made in this way. 3 form or shape. 4 frame or template for
producing mouldings. 5 character or type (in heroic mould). —v. 1 make (an
object) in a required shape or from certain ingredients (moulded out of clay). 2
give shape to. 3 influence the development of. [french modle from latin
*modulus]
Mold2 n. (brit. Mould) furry growth of fungi occurring esp. In moist warm
conditions. [old norse]
Mold3 n. (brit. Mould) 1 loose earth. 2 upper soil of cultivated land, esp. When
rich in organic matter. [old english]
Moldy adj. (brit. Mouldy) (-ier, -iest) 1 covered with mould. 2 stale; out of date.
3 colloq. Dull, miserable. mouldiness n.
Mole1 n. 1 small burrowing mammal with dark velvety fur and very small eyes.
2 slang spy established in a position of trust in an organization. [low german or
dutch]
Mollusc n. (us mollusk) invertebrate with a soft body and usu. A hard shell, e.g.
Snails and oysters. [latin molluscus soft]
Mollusk n. (brit. Mollusc) invertebrate with a soft body and usu. A hard shell,
e.g. Snails and oysters. [latin molluscus soft]
Molt (brit. Moult) —v. (also absol.) Shed (feathers, hair, a shell etc.) In the
process of renewing plumage, a coat, etc. —n. Moulting. [latin muto change]
Moment n. 1 very brief portion of time. 2 an exact point of time (i came the
moment you called). 3 importance (of no great moment). 4 product of a force
and the distance from its line of action to a point. at the moment now. In a
moment very soon. Man (or woman etc.) Of the moment the one of importance
at the time in question. [latin: related to *momentum]
Monad n. 1 the number one; unit. 2 philos. Ultimate unit of being (e.g. A soul,
an atom, a person, god). monadic adj. [greek monas -ados unit]
Monarchy n. (pl. -ies) 1 form of government with a monarch at the head. 2 state
with this. monarchial adj. [greek: related to *monarch]
Monday —n. Day of the week following sunday. —adv. Colloq. 1 on monday. 2
(mondays) on mondays; each monday. [old english]
Money n. 1 coins and banknotes as a medium of exchange. 2 (pl. -eys or -ies) (in
pl.) Sums of money. 3 a wealth. B wealth as power (money talks). C rich person
or family (married into money). for my money in my opinion; for my preference.
In the money colloq. Having or winning a lot of money. Money for jam (or old
rope) colloq. Profit for little or no trouble. [latin moneta]
Moneymaker n. 1 person who earns much money. 2 thing, idea, etc., that
produces much money. moneymaking n. & adj.
Money order n. Order for payment of a specified sum, issued by a bank or post
Money order n. Order for payment of a specified sum, issued by a bank or post
office.
Mongol —adj. 1 of the asian people. 2 resembling this people. 3 (mongol) often
offens. Suffering from down’s syndrome. —n. 1 mongolian. 2 (mongol) often
offens. Person suffering from down’s syndrome. [native name: perhaps from
mong brave]
Monism n. 1 doctrine that only one ultimate principle or being exists. 2 theory
denying the duality of matter and mind. monist n. Monistic adj. [greek monos
single]
Monitor —n. 1 person or device for checking or warning. 2 school pupil with
disciplinary or other special duties. 3 a television receiver used in a studio to
select or verify the picture being broadcast. B = *visual display unit. 4 person
who listens to and reports on foreign broadcasts etc. 5 detector of radioactive
contamination. —v. 1 act as a monitor of. 2 maintain regular surveillance over. 3
regulate the strength of (a recorded or transmitted signal). [latin moneo warn]
Monkey —n. (pl. -eys) 1 any of various primates, including marmosets, baboons
Monkey —n. (pl. -eys) 1 any of various primates, including marmosets, baboons
etc., esp. A small long-tailed kind. 2 mischievous person, esp. A child. —v. (-
eys, -eyed) 1 (often foll. By with) tamper or play mischievous tricks. 2 (foll. By
around, about) fool around. [origin unknown]
Monkey-nut n. Peanut.
Mono-comb. Form (usu. Mon-before a vowel) one, alone, single. [greek monos
alone]
Monocle n. Single eyeglass. monocled adj. [latin: related to *mono-, oculus eye]
Monody n. (pl. -ies) 1 ode sung by a single actor in a greek tragedy. 2 poem
lamenting a person’s death. monodist n. [greek: related to mono-, ode]
Monolith n. 1 single block of stone, esp. Shaped into a pillar etc. 2 person or
thing like a monolith in being massive, immovable, or solidly uniform.
monolithic adj. [greek lithos stone]
Monsignor n. (pl. -nori) title of various roman catholic priests and officials.
[italian: related to *monseigneur]
Monstrance n. Rc ch. Vessel in which the host is exposed for veneration. [latin
monstro show]
Month n. 1 (in full calendar month) a each of twelve periods into which a year is
divided. B period of time between the same dates in successive calendar months.
2 period of 28 days. [old english]
Monthly —adj. Done, produced, or occurring once every month. —adv. Every
month. —n. (pl. -ies) monthly periodical.
Moo —n. (pl. -s) cry of cattle. —v. (moos, mooed) make this sound. [imitative]
Moody —adj. (-ier, -iest) given to changes of mood; gloomy, sullen. —n. (pl. -
ies) colloq. Bad mood; tantrum. moodily adv. Moodiness n. [related to *mood1]
Moonie n. Colloq. Offens. Member of the unification church. [sun myung moon,
name of its founder]
Moonlight —n. 1 light of the moon. 2 (attrib.) Lit by the moon. —v. (-lighted)
colloq. Have two paid occupations, esp. One by day and one by night.
moonlighter n.
Moor1 n. 1 open uncultivated upland, esp. When covered with heather. 2 tract of
ground preserved for shooting. [old english]
Mooring n. 1 (often in pl.) Place where a boat etc. Is moored. 2 (in pl.) Set of
permanent anchors and chains.
Moot —adj. Debatable, undecided (moot point). —v. Raise (a question) for
discussion. —n. Hist. Assembly. [old english]
Mop —n. 1 bundle of yarn or cloth or a sponge on the end of a stick, for
cleaning floors etc. 2 similarly-shaped implement for various purposes. 3 thick
mass of hair. 4 mopping or being mopped (gave it a mop). —v. (-pp-) 1 wipe or
clean with or as with a mop. 2 a wipe tears or sweat etc. From (one’s face etc.).
B wipe away (tears etc.). mop up 1 wipe up with or as with a mop. 2 colloq.
Absorb. 3 dispatch; make an end of. 4 a complete the occupation of (a district
etc.) By capturing or killing enemy troops left there. B capture or kill
(stragglers). [origin uncertain]
Moquette n. Thick pile or looped material used for upholstery etc. [french]
Morality play n. Hist. Drama with personified abstract qualities and including a
moral lesson.
Moralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (often foll. By on) indulge in moral
reflection or talk. 2 make moral or more moral. moralization n.
Moral victory n. Defeat that has some of the satisfactory elements of victory.
Moratorium n. (pl. -s or -ria) 1 (often foll. By on) temporary prohibition or
suspension (of an activity). 2 a legal authorization to debtors to postpone
payment. B period of this postponement. [latin moror delay]
Morbid adj. 1 a (of the mind, ideas, etc.) Unwholesome. B given to morbid
feelings. 2 colloq. Melancholy. 3 med. Of the nature of or indicative of disease.
morbidity n. Morbidly adv. [latin morbus disease]
More —adj. Greater in quantity or degree; additional (more problems than last
time; bring some more water). —n. Greater quantity, number, or amount (more
than three people; more to it than meets the eye). —adv. 1 to a greater degree or
extent. 2 forming the comparative of adjectives and adverbs, esp. Those of more
than one syllable (more absurd; more easily). more and more to an increasing
degree. More of to a greater extent. More or less approximately; effectively;
nearly. What is more as an additional point. [old english]
Moreish adj. (also morish) colloq. (of food) causing a desire for more.
Morganatic adj. 1 (of a marriage) between a person of high rank and one of
lower rank, the spouse and children having no claim to the possessions or title of
the person of higher rank. 2 (of a spouse) married in this way. [latin
morganaticus from germanic, = ‘morning gift’, from a husband to his wife on the
morning after consummation of a marriage]
Moribund adj. 1 at the point of death. 2 lacking vitality. [latin morior die]
Morning n. 1 early part of the day, ending at noon or lunch-time (this morning;
during the morning). 2 attrib. Taken, occurring, or appearing during the morning
(morning coffee). in the morning colloq. Tomorrow morning. [from *morn]
Morning coat n. Coat with tails, and with the front cut away.
Morning star n. Planet, usu. Venus, seen in the east before sunrise.
Morocco n. (pl. -s) fine flexible leather of goatskin tanned with sumac. [morocco
in nw africa]
Moron n. 1 colloq. Very stupid person. 2 adult with a mental age of 8–12.
moronic adj. [greek moros foolish]
Morose adj. Sullen, gloomy. morosely adv. Moroseness n. [latin mos mor-
manner]
manner]
Morphine n. Narcotic drug from opium, used to relieve pain. [latin morpheus
god of sleep]
Morphology n. The study of the forms of things, esp. Of animals and plants and
of words and their structure. morphological adj. [greek morphe form]
Morris dance n. Traditional english dance in fancy costume, with ribbons and
bells. morris dancer n. Morris dancing n. [morys, var. Of moorish: related to
*moor]
Morrow n. (usu. Prec. By the) literary the following day. [related to *morn]
Morse —n. (in full morse code) code in which letters are represented by
combinations of long and short light or sound signals. —v. (-sing) signal by
morse code. [morse, name of an electrician]
Mortal —adj. 1 subject to death. 2 causing death; fatal. 3 (of combat) fought to
Mortal —adj. 1 subject to death. 2 causing death; fatal. 3 (of combat) fought to
the death. 4 associated with death (mortal agony). 5 (of an enemy) implacable. 6
(of pain, fear, an affront, etc.) Intense, very serious. 7 colloq. Long and tedious
(for two mortal hours). 8 colloq. Conceivable, imaginable (every mortal thing; of
no mortal use). —n. Human being. mortally adv. [latin mors mort-death]
Mortality n. (pl. -ies) 1 being subject to death. 2 loss of life on a large scale. 3 a
number of deaths in a given period etc. B (in full mortality rate) death rate.
Mortar —n. 1 mixture of lime or cement, sand, and water, for bonding bricks or
stones. 2 short large-bore cannon for firing shells at high angles. 3 vessel in
which ingredients are pounded with a pestle. —v. 1 plaster or join with mortar. 2
bombard with mortar shells. [latin mortarium]
Mortarboard n. 1 academic cap with a stiff flat square top. 2 flat board for
holding mortar.
Mortise (also mortice) —n. Hole in a framework designed to receive the end of
another part, esp. A tenon. —v. (-sing) 1 join securely, esp. By mortise and
tenon. 2 cut a mortise in. [french from arabic]
Mortuary —n. (pl. -ies) room or building in which dead bodies are kept until
burial or cremation. —attrib. Adj. Of death or burial. [medieval latin mortuus
dead]
Mosaic n. 1 a picture or pattern produced by arranging small variously coloured
pieces of glass or stone etc. B this as an art form. 2 diversified thing. 3 (attrib.)
Of or like a mosaic. [greek: ultimately related to *muse2]
Mosaic law n. The laws attributed to moses and listed in the pentateuch.
Mosquito n. (pl. -es) biting insect, esp. One of which the female punctures the
skin with a long proboscis to suck blood. [spanish and portuguese, diminutive of
mosca fly]
Most —adj. 1 greatest in quantity or degree. 2 the majority of (most people think
so). —n. 1 greatest quantity or number (this is the most i can do). 2 the majority
(most of them are missing). —adv. 1 in the highest degree. 2 forming the
superlative of adjectives and adverbs, esp. Those of more than one syllable (most
absurd; most easily). 3 us colloq. Almost. at most no more or better than (this is
at most a makeshift). At the most 1 as the greatest amount. 2 not more than. For
the most part 1 mainly. 2 usually.
-most suffix forming superlative adjectives and adverbs from prepositions and
other words indicating relative position (foremost; uttermost). [old english]
Mot abbr. (in full mot test) compulsory annual test of vehicles of more than a
specified age. [ministry of transport]
Moth n. 1 nocturnal insect like a butterfly but without clubbed antennae. 2 insect
of this type breeding in cloth etc., on which its larva feeds. [old english]
Mother —n. 1 female parent. 2 woman, quality, or condition etc. That gives rise
to something else (necessity is the mother of invention). 3 (in full mother
superior) head of a female religious community. —v. 1 treat as a mother does. 2
give birth to; be the mother or origin of. motherhood n. Motherless adj. [old
english]
Mother’s day n. Day when mothers are honoured with presents, (in the uk) the
fourth sunday in lent, (in the us) the second sunday in may.
Mothproof —adj. (of clothes) treated so as to repel moths. —v. Treat (clothes) in
this way.
Motivate v. (-ting) 1 supply a motive to; be the motive of. 2 cause (a person) to
act in a particular way. 3 stimulate the interest of (a person in an activity).
motivation n. Motivational adj.
Mot juste n. (pl. Mots justes pronunc. Same) most appropriate expression.
Motor —n. 1 thing that imparts motion. 2 machine (esp. One using electricity or
internal combustion) supplying motive power for a vehicle or other machine. 3 =
*car 1. 4 (attrib.) A giving, imparting, or producing motion. B driven by a motor
(motor-mower). C of or for motor vehicles. D anat. Relating to muscular
movement or the nerves activating it. —v. Go or convey in a motor vehicle.
[latin: related to *move]
[latin: related to *move]
Motorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 equip with motor transport. 2 provide
with a motor.
Motor vehicle n. Road vehicle powered by an internal-combustion engine.
Motorway n. Road for fast travel, with separate carriageways and limited access.
Motown n. Music with elements of rhythm and blues, associated with detroit.
[motor town, = detroit in us]
Mottle v. (-ling) (esp. As mottled adj.) Mark with spots or smears of colour.
[back-formation from *motley]
Mould1 (us mold) —n. 1 hollow container into which a substance is poured or
pressed to harden into a required shape. 2 a vessel for shaping puddings etc. B
pudding etc. Made in this way. 3 form or shape. 4 frame or template for
producing mouldings. 5 character or type (in heroic mould). —v. 1 make (an
object) in a required shape or from certain ingredients (moulded out of clay). 2
give shape to. 3 influence the development of. [french modle from latin
*modulus]
Mould2 n. (us mold) furry growth of fungi occurring esp. In moist warm
conditions. [old norse]
Mould3 n. (us mold) 1 loose earth. 2 upper soil of cultivated land, esp. When
rich in organic matter. [old english]
rich in organic matter. [old english]
Mouldy adj. (us moldy) (-ier, -iest) 1 covered with mould. 2 stale; out of date. 3
colloq. Dull, miserable. mouldiness n.
Moult (us molt) —v. (also absol.) Shed (feathers, hair, a shell etc.) In the process
of renewing plumage, a coat, etc. —n. Moulting. [latin muto change]
Mound n. 1 raised mass of earth, stones, etc. 2 heap or pile; large quantity. 3
hillock. [origin unknown]
Mount1 —v. 1 ascend; climb on to. 2 a get up on (a horse etc.) To ride it. B set
on horseback. C (as mounted adj.) Serving on horseback (mounted police). 3 a
(often foll. By up) accumulate. B (of a feeling) increase. 4 (often foll. By on, in)
set (an object) on a support or in a backing, frame, etc., esp. For viewing. 5
organize, arrange, set in motion (a play, exhibition, attack, guard, etc.). 6 (of a
male animal) get on to (a female) to copulate. —n. 1 backing, etc. On which a
picture etc. Is set for display. 2 horse for riding. 3 setting for a gem etc. [latin:
related to *mount2]
Mount2 n. Archaic (except before a name): mountain, hill (mount everest). [latin
mons mont-]
mons mont-]
Mount2 n. Archaic (except before a name): mountain, hill (mount everest). [latin
mons mont-]
Mountain n. 1 large abrupt natural elevation of the ground. 2 large heap or pile;
huge quantity. 3 large surplus stock (butter mountain). make a mountain out of a
molehill see molehill. [latin: related to mount2]
Mountain bike n. Sturdy bike with many gears for riding over rough terrain.
Mourn v. (often foll. By for, over) feel or show deep sorrow or regret for (a dead
person, a lost thing, a past event, etc.). [old english]
Mouse —n. (pl. Mice) 1 small rodent, esp. Of a kind infesting houses. 2 timid or
feeble person. 3 (pl. -s) computing small hand-held device controlling the cursor
on a vdu screen. —v. (-sing) (of a cat, owl, etc.) Hunt mice. mouser n. [old
english]
Mousetrap n. 1 trap for catching mice. 2 (often attrib.) Colloq. Poor quality
cheese.
Moussaka n. (also mousaka) greek dish of minced meat, aubergine, etc. [greek or
turkish]
Mousse n. 1 a dessert of whipped cream, eggs, etc., usu. Flavoured with fruit or
chocolate. B meat or fish purée made with whipped cream etc. 2 foamy
substance applied to the hair to enable styling. [french, = froth]
Moustache n. (us mustache) hair left to grow on a man’s upper lip. [greek
mustax]
Mousy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like a mouse. 2 (of a person) timid, feeble. 3
nondescript light brown.
Mouth —n. (pl. Mouths) 1 a external opening in the head, through which most
animals take in food and emit communicative sounds. B (in humans and some
animals) cavity behind it containing the means of biting and chewing and the
vocal organs. 2 opening of a container, cave, trumpet, etc. 3 place where a river
enters the sea. 4 an individual as needing sustenance (an extra mouth to feed). 5
colloq. A meaningless or ineffectual talk. B impudent talk; cheek. —v. (-thing) 1
say or speak by moving the lips but with no sound. 2 utter or speak insincerely
or without understanding (mouthing platitudes). put words into a person’s mouth
represent a person as having said something. Take the words out of a person’s
mouth say what another was about to say. [old english]
Mouthful n. (pl. -s) 1 quantity of food etc. That fills the mouth. 2 small quantity.
3 colloq. Long or complicated word or phrase.
Mouth-organ n. = *harmonica.
Movable adj. (also moveable) 1 that can be moved. 2 variable in date from year
to year (movable feast). [related to *move]
Move —v. (-ving) 1 (cause to) change position or posture. 2 put or keep in
motion; rouse, stir. 3 a take a turn in a board-game. B change the position of (a
piece) in a board-game. 4 (often foll. By about, away, off, etc.) Go or proceed. 5
take action, esp. Promptly (moved to reduce crime). 6 make progress (project is
moving fast). 7 (also absol.) Change (one’s home or place of work). 8 (foll. By
in) be socially active in (a specified group etc.) (moves in the best circles). 9
affect (a person) with (usu. Tender) emotion. 10 (foll. By to) provoke (a person
to laughter etc.) (was moved to tears). 11 (foll. By to, or to + infin.) Prompt or
incline (a person to a feeling or action). 12 (cause to) change one’s attitude
(nothing can move me on this issue). 13 a cause (the bowels) to be evacuated. B
(of the bowels) be evacuated. 14 (often foll. By that) propose in a meeting, etc.
15 (foll. By for) make a formal request or application. 16 sell; be sold. —n. 1 act
or process of moving. 2 change of house, premises, etc. 3 step taken to secure an
object. 4 a changing of the position of a piece in a board-game. B player’s turn to
do this. get a move on colloq. Hurry up. Make a move take action. Move along
(or on) advance, progress, esp. To avoid crowding etc. Move away go to live in
another area. Move heaven and earth (foll. By to + infin.) Make extraordinary
efforts. Move in 1 take up residence in a new home. 2 get into a position of
readiness or proximity (for an offensive action etc.). Move in with start to share
accommodation with (an existing resident). Move out leave one’s home. Move
over (or up) adjust one’s position to make room for another. On the move
moving. [latin moveo]
Moving staircase n. Escalator.
Mow v. (past part. Mowed or mown) 1 (also absol.) Cut (grass, hay, etc.) With a
scythe or machine. 2 cut down the produce of (a field) or the grass etc. Of (a
lawn) by mowing. mow down kill or destroy randomly or in great numbers.
mower n. [old english]
Mr n. (pl. Messrs) 1 title of a man without a higher title (mr jones). 2 title
prefixed to a designation of office etc. (mr president; mr speaker). [abbreviation
of *mister]
Mrs n. (pl. Same) title of a married woman without a higher title (mrs jones).
Mrs n. (pl. Same) title of a married woman without a higher title (mrs jones).
[abbreviation of *mistress]
Much —adj. 1 existing or occurring in a great quantity (much trouble; too much
noise). 2 (prec. By as, how, that, etc.) With relative sense (i don’t know how
much money you want). —n. 1 a great quantity (much of that is true). 2 (prec.
By as, how, that, etc.) With relative sense (we do not need that much). 3 (usu. In
neg.) Noteworthy or outstanding example (not much to look at). —adv. 1 in a
great degree (much to my surprise; is much the same; i much regret it; much
annoyed; much better; much the best). 2 for a large part of one’s time; often (he
is not here much). as much so (i thought as much). A bit much colloq. Excessive,
immoderate. Much as even though (cannot come, much as i would like to).
Much of a muchness very nearly the same. Not much of a colloq. A rather poor.
[from *mickle]
Mucilage n. 1 viscous substance obtained from plants. 2 adhesive gum. [latin:
related to *mucus]
Mucker n. Slang friend, mate. [probably from muck in: related to *muck]
Mud n. Soft wet earth. fling (or sling or throw) mud speak disparagingly or
slanderously. One’s name is mud one is in disgrace. [german]
Muddle —v. (-ling) (often foll. By up) 1 bring into disorder. 2 bewilder, confuse.
—n. 1 disorder. 2 confusion. muddle along (or on) progress in a haphazard way.
Muddle through succeed despite one’s inefficiency. [perhaps dutch, related to
*mud]
Muddy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like mud. 2 covered in or full of mud. 3 (of liquid,
colour, or sound) not clear, impure. 4 vague, confused. —v. (-ies, -ied) make
muddy. muddiness n.
Mudguard n. Curved strip over a bicycle wheel etc. To protect the rider from
splashes.
Muesli n. Breakfast food of crushed cereals, dried fruits, nuts, etc., eaten with
milk. [swiss german]
Muff1 n. Covering, esp. Of fur, for keeping the hands or ears warm. [dutch mof]
Muffin n. 1 light flat round spongy cake, eaten toasted and buttered. 2 us similar
round cake made from batter or dough. [origin unknown]
Muffle v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By up) wrap or cover for warmth, or to deaden
sound. 2 (usu. As muffled adj.) Stifle (an utterance). [perhaps french moufle
thick glove, *muff1]
Muffler n. 1 wrap or scarf worn for warmth. 2 thing used to deaden sound. 3 us
silencer of a vehicle.
Mufti n. Civilian clothes (in mufti). [arabic]
Mug2 v. (-gg-) (usu. Foll. By up) slang learn (a subject) by concentrated study.
[origin unknown]
Muggy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of weather etc.) Oppressively humid. mugginess n. [old
norse]
Usage the term muhammadan is not used by muslims, and is often regarded as
offensive.
Mulatto n. (pl. -s or -es) person of mixed white and black parentage. [spanish
mulato young mule]
Mulberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 tree bearing edible purple or white berries, and leaves
used to feed silkworms. 2 its fruit. 3 dark-red or purple. [latin morum mulberry,
*berry]
Mulch —n. Layer of wet straw, leaves, or plastic, etc., spread around or over a
plant to enrich or insulate the soil. —v. Treat with mulch. [old english, = soft]
Mule1 n. 1 offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, or (in general use) of
a female donkey and a male horse (cf. *hinny). 2 stupid or obstinate person. 3 (in
full spinning mule) a kind of spinning-machine. [latin mulus]
Mull2 v. Warm (wine or beer) with added sugar, spices, etc. [origin unknown]
Mullah n. Muslim learned in theology and sacred law. [ultimately arabic mawla]
Mullet n. (pl. Same) any of several kinds of marine fish valued for food. [greek
mullos]
Mullion n. Vertical bar dividing the lights in a window. mullioned adj. [probably
french moinel middle: related to *mean3]
Multi-access adj. (of a computer system) allowing access to the central processor
from several terminals simultaneously.
Multimedia —attrib. Adj. Using more than one medium of communication. —n.
= *hypermedia.
Multiplication n. Multiplying.
Multiply v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (also absol.) Obtain from (a number) another that is a
specified number of times its value (multiply 6 by 4 and you get 24). 2 increase
in number, esp. By procreation. 3 produce a large number of (instances etc.). 4 a
breed (animals). B propagate (plants). [latin multiplico: related to *multiplex]
Mum2 adj. Colloq. Silent (keep mum). mum’s the word say nothing. [imitative]
Mummy2 n. (pl. -ies) body of a human being or animal embalmed for burial,
esp. In ancient egypt. [persian mum wax]
Mumps n.pl. (treated as sing.) Infectious disease with swelling of the neck and
face. [imitative of mouth-shape]
Mung n. (in full mung bean) leguminous indian plant used as food. [hindi mung]
Muon n. Physics unstable elementary particle like an electron, but with a much
greater mass. [m (*mu), the symbol for it]
greater mass. [m (*mu), the symbol for it]
Mural —n. Painting executed directly on a wall. —adj. Of, on, or like a wall.
[latin murus wall]
Murderous adj. 1 (of a person, weapon, action, etc.) Capable of, intending, or
involving murder or great harm. 2 colloq. Extremely arduous or unpleasant.
Murky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 dark, gloomy. 2 (of darkness, liquid, etc.) Thick, dirty.
3 suspiciously obscure (murky past). murkily adv. Murkiness n.
Murphy’s law n. Joc. Any of various maxims about the perverseness of things.
[murphy, irish surname]
Murrain n. Infectious disease of cattle. [anglo-french moryn]
Mus.b. Abbr. (also mus. Bac.) Bachelor of music. [latin musicae baccalaureus]
Muscadet n. 1 a dry white wine from the loire region of france. 2 variety of
grape used for this. [muscadet grape]
Muscat n. 1 sweet usu. Fortified white wine made from musk-flavoured grapes.
2 this grape. [provençal: related to *musk]
Muscle-bound adj. With muscles stiff and inelastic through excessive exercise.
Muscovy duck n. Crested duck with red markings on its head. [muscovy,
principality of moscow]
Mus.d. Abbr. (also mus. Doc.) Doctor of music. [latin musicae doctor]
Muse1 v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By on, upon) ponder, reflect. 2 say meditatively.
[french]
Muse2 n. 1 (in greek and roman mythology) any of the nine goddesses who
inspire poetry, music, etc. 2 (usu. Prec. By the) poet’s inspiration. [greek mousa]
Museum piece n. 1 specimen of art etc. Fit for a museum. 2 derog. Old-
fashioned or quaint person or object.
Mushroom —n. 1 edible fungus with a stem and domed cap. 2 pinkish-brown
colour of this. —v. Appear or develop rapidly. [french mousseron from latin]
Mushy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like mush; soft. 2 feebly sentimental. mushiness n.
Musical —adj. 1 of music. 2 (of sounds etc.) Melodious, harmonious. 3 fond of,
sensitive to, or skilled in music. 4 set to or accompanied by music. —n. Musical
film or play. musicality n. Musically adv.
Musical chairs n.pl. 1 party game in which the players compete in successive
rounds for a decreasing number of chairs. 2 series of changes or political
manoeuvring etc.
Musk n. 1 substance secreted by the male musk deer and used in perfumes. 2
plant which orig. Had a smell of musk. musky adj. (-ier, -iest). Muskiness n.
[latin muscus from persian]
Muskrat n. 1 large n. American aquatic rodent with a musky smell. 2 its fur.
Muslim (also moslem) —n. Follower of the islamic religion. —adj. Of the
muslims or their religion. [arabic: related to *islam]
Muslin n. Fine delicately woven cotton fabric. [italian mussolo mosul in iraq]
Mussel n. Bivalve mollusc, esp. Of the kind used for food. [old english: related
to *muscle]
Must1 —v.aux. (present must; past had to or in indirect speech must) (foll. By
infin., or absol.) 1 a be obliged to (you must go to school). B in ironic questions
(must you slam the door?). 2 be certainly (you must be her sister). 3 ought to
(must see what can be done). 4 expressing insistence (must ask you to leave). 5
(foll. By not + infin.) A not be permitted to, be forbidden to (must not smoke). B
ought not; need not (mustn’t think he’s angry; must not worry). C expressing
insistence that something should not be done (they must not be told). —n.
Colloq. Thing that should not be missed (this exhibition is a must). i must say
often iron. I cannot refrain from saying (i must say he tries hard; a fine way to
behave, i must say). Must needs see *needs. [old english]
Usage in sense 1a, the negative (i.e. Lack of obligation) is expressed by not have
to or need not; must not denotes positive forbidding, as in you must not smoke.
Must2 n. Grape juice before fermentation is complete. [old english from latin]
Mustache n. (brit. Moustache) hair left to grow on a man’s upper lip. [greek
mustax]
Mustard n. 1 a plant with slender pods and yellow flowers. B seeds of this
crushed into a paste and used as a spicy condiment. 2 plant eaten at the seedling
stage, often with cress. 3 brownish-yellow colour. [romanic: related to *must2]
Muster —v. 1 collect (orig. Soldiers) for inspection, to check numbers, etc. 2
collect, gather together. 3 summon (courage etc.). —n. Assembly of persons for
inspection. pass muster be accepted as adequate. [latin monstro show]
Musty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 mouldy, stale. 2 dull, antiquated. mustily adv. Mustiness
n. [perhaps an alteration of moisty: related to *moist]
Mutatis mutandis adv. (in comparing cases) making the necessary alterations.
Mutatis mutandis adv. (in comparing cases) making the necessary alterations.
[latin]
Mutiny —n. (pl. -ies) open revolt, esp. By soldiers or sailors against their
officers. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By against) revolt; engage in mutiny.
Mutter —v. 1 (also absol.) Utter (words) in a barely audible manner. 2 (often
foll. By against, at) murmur or grumble. —n. 1 muttered words or sounds. 2
muttering. [related to *mute]
Mutual adj. 1 (of feelings, actions, etc.) Experienced or done by each of two or
more parties to or towards the other(s) (mutual affection). 2 colloq. Common to
two or more persons (a mutual friend). 3 having the same (specified) relationship
to each other (mutual well-wishers). mutuality n. Mutually adv. [latin mutuus
borrowed]
Usage the use of mutual in sense 2, although often found, is considered incorrect
by some people, for whom common is preferable.
Muzzle —n. 1 projecting part of an animal’s face, including the nose and mouth.
2 guard, usu. Of straps or wire, put over an animal’s nose and mouth to stop it
biting or feeding. 3 open end of a firearm. —v. (-ling) 1 put a muzzle on. 2
impose silence on. [medieval latin musum]
Muzzy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 mentally hazy. 2 blurred, indistinct. muzzily adv.
Muzziness n. [origin unknown]
Myna n. (also mynah, mina) talking bird of the starling family. [hindi]
Myrrh n. Gum resin used in perfume, medicine, incense, etc. [latin myrrha from
greek]
Myrtle n. Evergreen shrub with shiny leaves and white scented flowers. [greek
murtos]
Myself pron. 1 emphat. Form of *i2 or me1 (i saw it myself). 2 refl. Form of me1
(i was angry with myself). be myself see oneself. I myself i for my part (i myself
am doubtful). [old english: related to me1, *self]
Mystic —n. Person who seeks by contemplation etc. To achieve unity with the
deity, or who believes in the spiritual apprehension of truths that are beyond the
understanding. —adj. = *mystical. mysticism n. [greek mustes initiated person]
Mythology n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of myths. 2 the study of myths. mythological adj.
Mythology n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of myths. 2 the study of myths. mythological adj.
Mythologize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [greek: related to *myth]
N3 symb. Nitrogen.
Na symb. Sodium.
Naafi abbr. 1 navy, army, and air force institutes. 2 canteen for servicemen run
by the naafi.
Nacho n. (pl. -s) tortilla chip, usu. Topped with melted cheese and spices etc.
[origin uncertain]
Naevus n. (us nevus) (pl. Naevi) 1 raised red birthmark. 2 = *mole2. [latin]
Nag1 v. (-gg-) 1 a persistently criticize or scold. B (often foll. By at) find fault or
urge, esp. Persistently. 2 (of a pain) be persistent. [originally a dial. Word]
Nail —n. 1 small metal spike hammered in to join things together or as a peg or
decoration. 2 horny covering on the upper surface of the tip of the human finger
or toe. —v. 1 fasten with a nail or nails. 2 secure or get hold of (a person or
thing). 3 keep (attention etc.) Fixed. 4 expose or discover (a lie or liar). nail
down 1 bind (a person) to a promise etc. 2 define precisely. 3 fasten (a thing)
with nails. Nail in a person’s coffin something thought to increase the risk of
death. On the nail (esp. Of payment) without delay. [old english]
Nail-file n. Roughened metal or emery strip used for smoothing the nails.
Nail polish n. (also nail varnish) varnish, usu. Coloured, applied to the nails.
Naïve adj. (also naive) 1 innocent; unaffected. 2 foolishly credulous. 3 (of art)
produced in a sophisticated society but lacking conventional expertise. naïvely
adv. Naïvety n. (also naïveté). [latin nativus *native]
Naked adj. 1 without clothes; nude. 2 without its usual covering. 3 undisguised
(the naked truth). 4 (of a light, flame, sword, etc.) Unprotected or unsheathed.
nakedly adv. Nakedness n. [old english]
Naked eye n. (prec. By the) unassisted vision, e.g. Without a telescope etc.
Name —n. 1 word by which an individual person, family, animal, place, or thing
is spoken of etc. 2 a (usu. Abusive) term used of a person etc. (called him
names). B word denoting an object or esp. A class of objects etc. (what is the
name of those flowers?). 3 famous person. 4 reputation, esp. A good one. —v. (-
ming) 1 give a name to. 2 state the name of. 3 mention; specify; cite. 4 nominate.
have to one’s name possess. In the name of as representing; by virtue of (in the
name of the law). In name only not in reality. Make a name for oneself become
famous. nameable adj. [old english]
Namesake n. Person or thing having the same name as another. [probably from
for the name’s sake]
Nancy n. (pl. -ies) (in full nancy boy) slang offens. Effeminate man, esp. A
homosexual. [pet form of ann]
Nanny n. (pl. -ies) 1 child’s nurse. 2 colloq. Grandmother. 3 (in full nanny-goat)
female goat. [related to *nancy]
Nap1 —v. (-pp-) sleep lightly or briefly. —n. Short sleep or doze, esp. By day.
catch a person napping detect in negligence etc; catch off guard. [old english]
Nap3 —n. 1 form of whist in which players declare the number of tricks they
expect to take. 2 racing tip claimed to be almost a certainty. —v. (-pp-) name (a
horse etc.) As a probable winner. go nap 1 attempt to take all five tricks in nap.
Napalm —n. Thick jellied hydrocarbon mixture used in bombs. —v. Attack with
napalm bombs. [from *naphthalene, *palm1]
Naphtha n. Inflammable hydrocarbon distilled from coal etc. [latin from greek]
Napkin n. 1 piece of linen etc. For wiping the lips, fingers, etc. At meals. 2
baby’s nappy. [french nappe from latin mappa *map]
Nappy n. (pl. -ies) piece of towelling etc. Wrapped round a baby to absorb or
retain urine and faeces. [from *napkin]
Narcissus n. (pl. -cissi) any of several flowering bulbs, including the daffodil.
[latin from greek]
Nark slang —n. Police informer or decoy. —v. Annoy. [romany nak nose]
Narwhal n. Arctic white whale, the male of which has a long tusk. [dutch from
danish]
Nasa abbr. (in the us) national aeronautics and space administration.
Nasal —adj. 1 of the nose. 2 (of a letter or a sound) pronounced with the breath
passing through the nose, e.g. M, n, ng. 3 (of the voice or speech) having many
nasal sounds. —n. Nasal letter or sound. nasalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing).
Nasally adv. [latin nasus nose]
Nascent adj. 1 in the act of being born. 2 just beginning to be; not yet mature.
nascency n. [latin: related to *natal]
Nasturtium n. Trailing plant with edible leaves and bright orange, yellow, or red
flowers. [latin]
Natal adj. Of or from one’s birth. [latin natalis from nascor nat-be born]
National health n. (also national health service) system of national medical care
paid for mainly by taxation.
Nationalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 take (railways, industry, land, etc.)
Into state ownership. 2 make national. nationalization n.
National park n. Area of natural beauty protected by the state for the use of the
public.
Native —n. 1 a (usu. Foll. By of) person born in a specified place. B local
inhabitant. 2 often offens. Member of a non-white indigenous people, as
regarded by colonial settlers. 3 (usu. Foll. By of) indigenous animal or plant. —
adj. 1 inherent; innate. 2 of one’s birth (native country). 3 (usu. Foll. By to)
belonging to a specified place. 4 (esp. Of a non-european) indigenous; born in a
place. 5 (of metal etc.) Found in a pure or uncombined state. [latin: related to
place. 5 (of metal etc.) Found in a pure or uncombined state. [latin: related to
*natal]
Nativity n. (pl. -ies) 1 (esp. The nativity) a christ’s birth. B festival of christ’s
birth. 2 birth. [latin: related to *native]
Natter colloq. —v. Chatter idly. —n. Aimless chatter. [imitative, originally dial.]
Natty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Trim; smart. nattily adv. [cf. *neat]
Natural science n. 1 the study of the natural or physical world. 2 (in pl.) Sciences
used for this.
used for this.
Naught archaic or literary —n. Nothing, nought. —adj. (usu. Predic.) Worthless;
useless. come to naught come to nothing, fail. Set at naught despise. [old
english: related to no2, wight]
Nautilus n. (pl. Nautiluses or nautili) cephalopod mollusc with a spiral shell, esp.
(pearly nautilus) one having a chambered shell. [greek nautilos: related to
*nautical]
Nave1 n. Central part of a church, usu. From the west door to the chancel
excluding the side aisles. [latin navis ship]
Navel n. Depression in the centre of the belly marking the site of attachment of
the umbilical cord. [old english]
Navigable adj. 1 (of a river etc.) Suitable for ships to pass through. 2 seaworthy.
3 steerable. navigability n. [latin: related to *navigate]
Navvy —n. (pl. -ies) labourer employed in building or excavating roads, canals,
etc. —v. (-ies, -ied) work as a navvy. [abbreviation of navigator]
Navy n. (pl. -ies) 1 (often the navy) a whole body of a state’s ships of war,
including crews, maintenance systems, etc. B officers and men of a navy. 2 (in
full navy blue) dark-blue colour as of naval uniforms. 3 poet. Fleet of ships.
[romanic navia ship: related to *naval]
Nay —adv. 1 or rather; and even; and more than that (large, nay, huge). 2
archaic = *no2 adv. 1. —n. Utterance of ‘nay’; ‘no’ vote. [old norse, = not ever]
Nazi —n. (pl. -s) hist. Member of the german national socialist party. —adj. Of
the nazis or nazism. nazism n. [representing pronunciation of nati-in german
nationalsozialist]
Nb symb. Niobium.
Usage since 1987 the official name has been british coal.
Nd symb. Neodymium.
Ne symb. Neon.
Neap n. (in full neap tide) tide at the times of the month when there is least
difference between high and low water. [old english]
Near east n. (prec. By the) region comprising the countries of the eastern
mediterranean. near eastern adj.
Near miss n. 1 bomb etc. Falling close to the target. 2 narrowly avoided
collision. 3 not quite successful attempt.
Neat adj. 1 tidy and methodical. 2 elegantly simple. 3 brief, clear, and pointed. 4
a cleverly executed. B dexterous. 5 (of esp. Alcoholic liquor) undiluted. neatly
adv. Neatness n. [french net from latin nitidus shining]
Nebula n. (pl. Nebulae) cloud of gas and dust seen in the night sky, sometimes
glowing and sometimes appearing as a dark silhouette. nebular adj. [latin, =
glowing and sometimes appearing as a dark silhouette. nebular adj. [latin, =
mist]
Necessitarian —n. Person who holds that all action is predetermined and free
will is impossible. —adj. Of such a person or theory. necessitarianism n.
Neck —n. 1 a part of the body connecting the head to the shoulders. B part of a
Neck —n. 1 a part of the body connecting the head to the shoulders. B part of a
garment round the neck. 2 something resembling a neck; narrow part of a cavity,
vessel, or object such as a bottle or violin. 3 length of a horse’s head and neck as
a measure of its lead in a race. 4 flesh of an animal’s neck as food. 5 slang
impudence. —v. Colloq. Kiss and caress amorously. get it in the neck colloq. 1
be severely reprimanded or punished. 2 suffer a severe blow. Up to one’s neck
(often foll. By in) colloq. Very deeply involved; very busy. [old english]
Neck and neck adj. & adv. (running) level in a race etc.
Necklace n. 1 chain or string of beads, precious stones, etc., worn round the
neck. 2 s.afr. Tyre soaked or filled with petrol, placed round a victim’s neck, and
set alight.
Nectar n. 1 sugary substance produced by plants and made into honey by bees. 2
(in greek and roman mythology) the drink of the gods. 3 drink compared to this.
nectarous adj. [latin from greek]
Neddy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. 1 donkey. 2 (neddy) = *nedc. [pet form of edward]
Nee adj. (brit. Née) (used in adding a married woman’s maiden name after her
surname) born (mrs ann hall, née brown). [french, feminine past part. Of naître
be born]
Née adj. (us nee) (used in adding a married woman’s maiden name after her
surname) born (mrs ann hall, née brown). [french, feminine past part. Of naître
surname) born (mrs ann hall, née brown). [french, feminine past part. Of naître
be born]
Need —v. 1 stand in want of; require. 2 (foll. By to + infin.; 3rd sing. Present
neg. Or interrog. Need without to) be under the necessity or obligation (needs to
be done well; he need not come; need you ask?). —n. 1 requirement (my needs
are few). 2 circumstances requiring some course of action (no need to worry; if
need be).
Needle —n. 1 a very thin pointed rod of smooth steel etc. With a slit (‘eye’) for
thread at the blunt end, used in sewing. B larger plastic, wooden, etc. Slender rod
without an eye, used in knitting etc. 2 pointer on a dial. 3 any of several small
thin pointed instruments, esp.: a the end of a hypodermic syringe. B = *stylus 1.
4 a obelisk (cleopatra’s needle). B pointed rock or peak. 5 leaf of a fir or pine
tree. 6 (the needle) slang fit of bad temper or nervousness. —v. (-ling) colloq.
Irritate; provoke. [old english]
Needle-point n. 1 lace made with needles, not bobbins. 2 = *gros point or *petit
point.
Negate v. (-ting) 1 nullify. 2 assert or imply the non-existence of. [latin nego
deny]
Neglect —v. 1 fail to care for or to do; be remiss about. 2 (foll. By to + infin.)
Fail; overlook the need to. 3 not pay attention to; disregard. —n. 1 negligence. 2
neglecting or being neglected. 3 (usu. Foll. By of) disregard. neglectful adj.
Neglectfully adv. [latin neglego neglect-]
Usage the term negress is often considered offensive; black is usually preferred.
Negro —n. (pl. -es) member of a dark-skinned race orig. Native to africa. —adj.
1 of negroes. 2 (as negro) zool. Black or dark. [latin niger nigri black]
Usage the term negro is often considered offensive; black is usually preferred.
Negroid —adj. (of physical features etc.) Characteristic of black people. —n.
Black.
Neighbor (brit. Neighbour) —n. 1 person living next door to or near or nearest
another. 2 fellow human being. 3 person or thing near or next to another. —v.
Border on; adjoin. [old english: related to *nigh, *boor]
Neighbour (us neighbor) —n. 1 person living next door to or near or nearest
another. 2 fellow human being. 3 person or thing near or next to another. —v.
Border on; adjoin. [old english: related to *nigh, *boor]
Neither —adj. & pron. (foll. By sing. Verb) not the one nor the other (of two
things); not either (neither of the accusations is true; neither of them knows;
neither wish was granted; neither went to the fair). —adv. 1 not either; not on the
one hand (foll. By nor; introducing the first of two or more things in the
negative: neither knowing nor caring; neither the teachers nor the parents nor the
children). 2 also not (if you do not, neither shall i). —conj. Archaic nor yet; nor
(i know not, neither can i guess). [old english: related to no2, whether]
Nelson n. Wrestling-hold in which one arm is passed under the opponent’s arm
from behind and the hand is applied to the neck (half nelson), or both arms and
hands are applied (full nelson). [apparently from the name nelson]
Neo-comb. Form 1 new, modern. 2 new form of. [greek neos new]
Neolithic adj. Of the later part of the stone age. [greek lithos stone]
Neon n. Inert gaseous element giving an orange glow when electricity is passed
through it. [greek, = new]
Nerd n. (also nurd) esp. Us slang foolish, feeble, or uninteresting person. [origin
uncertain]
uncertain]
Nervous adj. 1 easily upset, timid, highly strung. 2 anxious. 3 affecting the
nerves. 4 (foll. By of + verbal noun) afraid (am nervous of meeting them).
nervously adv. Nervousness n.
Nescient adj. Literary (foll. By of) lacking knowledge. nescience n. [latin ne-not,
scio know]
Nest —n. 1 structure or place where a bird lays eggs and shelters its young. 2
any creature’s breeding-place or lair. 3 snug retreat or shelter. 4 brood or swarm.
5 group or set of similar objects, often of different sizes and fitting one inside the
other (nest of tables). —v. 1 use or build a nest. 2 take wild birds’ nests or eggs.
3 (of objects) fit together or one inside another. [old english]
Nestle v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By down, in, etc.) Settle oneself comfortably. 2
press oneself against another in affection etc. 3 (foll. By in, into, etc.) Push (a
head or shoulder etc.) Affectionately or snugly. 4 lie half hidden or embedded.
[old english]
Net1 —n. 1 open-meshed fabric of cord, rope, etc. 2 piece of net used esp. To
restrain, contain, or delimit, or to catch fish etc. 3 structure with a net used in
various games. —v. (-tt-) 1 a cover, confine, or catch with a net. B procure as
with a net. 2 hit (a ball) into the net, esp. Of a goal. [old english]
Net2 (also nett) —adj. 1 (esp. Of money) remaining after all necessary
deductions. 2 (of a price) not reducible. 3 (of a weight) excluding that of the
packaging etc. 4 (of an effect, result, etc.) Ultimate, actual. —v. (-tt-) gain or
yield (a sum) as net profit. [french: related to *neat]
Netball n. Team game in which goals are scored by throwing a ball through a
high horizontal ring from which a net hangs.
Net profit n. Actual gain after working expenses have been paid.
Nettle —n. 1 plant with jagged leaves covered with stinging hairs. 2 plant
resembling this. —v. (-ling) irritate, provoke. [old english]
Neural adj. Of a nerve or the central nervous system. [greek neuron nerve]
Neuralgia n. Intense pain along a nerve, esp. In the head or face. neuralgic adj.
Neurosurgery n. Surgery on the nervous system, esp. The brain or spinal cord.
neurosurgeon n. Neurosurgical adj.
Neuter —adj. 1 neither masculine nor feminine. 2 (of a plant) having neither
pistils nor stamen. 3 (of an insect) sexually undeveloped. —n. 1 neuter gender or
word. 2 a non-fertile insect, esp. A worker bee or ant. B castrated animal. —v.
Castrate or spay. [latin]
Neutrino n. (pl. -s) elementary particle with zero electric charge and probably
zero mass. [italian, diminutive of neutro neutral: related to *neuter]
Neutron n. Elementary particle of about the same mass as a proton but without
an electric charge. [from *neutral]
Neutron bomb n. Bomb producing neutrons and little blast, destroying life but
not property.
Nevus n. (brit. Naevus) (pl. Naevi) 1 raised red birthmark. 2 = *mole2. [latin]
New age n. Set of beliefs replacing traditional western culture, with alternative
approaches to religion, medicine, the environment, etc.
Newel n. 1 supporting central post of winding stairs. 2 (also newel post) top or
bottom supporting post of a stair-rail. [latin nodus knot]
Newfangled adj. Derog. Different from what one is used to; objectionably new.
[= new taken]
New mathematics n.pl. (also new maths) (also treated as sing.) System of
elementary maths teaching with an emphasis on investigation and set theory.
New moon n. 1 moon when first seen as a crescent after conjunction with the
sun. 2 time of its appearance.
Newscaster n. = *newsreader.
Newsflash n. Single item of important news, broadcast urgently and often
interrupting other programmes.
News-stand n. Stall for the sale of newspapers.
News-vendor n. Newspaper-seller.
Newt n. Small amphibian with a well-developed tail. [ewt, with n from an: var.
Of evet *eft]
New testament n. Part of the bible concerned with the life and teachings of christ
and his earliest followers.
Newton n. Si unit of force that, acting on a mass of one kilogram, increases its
velocity by one metre per second every second. [newton, name of a scientist]
New town n. Town planned and built all at once with government funds.
New year n. Year just begun or about to begin; first few days of a year.
Next —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) being, positioned, or living nearest. 2 nearest in
order of time; soonest encountered (next friday; ask the next person you see). —
adv. 1 (often foll. By to) in the nearest place or degree (put it next to mine). 2 on
the first or soonest occasion (when we next meet). —n. Next person or thing. —
prep. Colloq. Next to. next to almost (next to nothing left). [old english,
superlative of *nigh]
Next door adj. & adv. (as adj. Often hyphenated) in the next house or room.
Ni symb. Nickel.
Nib n. 1 pen-point. 2 (in pl.) Shelled and crushed coffee or cocoa beans. [low
german or dutch]
Nibble —v. (-ling) 1 (foll. By at) a take small bites at. B take cautious interest in.
2 eat in small amounts. 3 bite at gently, cautiously, or playfully. —n. 1 act of
nibbling. 2 very small amount of food. [low german or dutch]
Nibs n. his nibs joc. Colloq. Mock title used with reference to an important or
self-important person. [origin unknown]
Nice adj. 1 pleasant, satisfactory. 2 (of a person) kind, good-natured. 3 iron. Bad
or awkward (nice mess). 4 fine or subtle (nice distinction). 5 fastidious;
or awkward (nice mess). 4 fine or subtle (nice distinction). 5 fastidious;
delicately sensitive. 6 (foll. By an adj., often with and) satisfactory in terms of
the quality described (a nice long time; nice and warm). nicely adv. Niceness n.
Nicish adj. (also niceish). [originally = foolish, from latin nescius ignorant]
Nick —n. 1 small cut or notch. 2 slang a prison. B police station. 3 colloq.
Condition (in good nick). —v. 1 make a nick or nicks in. 2 slang a steal. B arrest,
catch. in the nick of time only just in time. [origin uncertain]
Niff n. & v. Colloq. Smell, stink. niffy adj. (-ier, -iest). [originally a dial. Word]
Nifty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 clever, adroit. 2 smart, stylish. [origin uncertain]
Nigh adv., prep., & adj. Archaic or dial. Near. [old english]
Night n. 1 period of darkness between one day and the next; time from sunset to
sunrise. 2 nightfall. 3 darkness of night. 4 night or evening appointed for some
activity regarded in a certain way (last night of the proms). [old english]
Nightcap n. 1 hist. Cap worn in bed. 2 hot or alcoholic drink taken at bedtime.
Nightgown n. = *nightdress.
Night safe n. Safe with access from the outer wall of a bank for the deposit of
money etc. When the bank is closed.
Nightspot n. Nightclub.
Nihilism n. 1 rejection of all religious and moral principles. 2 belief that nothing
really exists. nihilist n. Nihilistic adj. [latin nihil nothing]
-nik suffix forming nouns denoting a person associated with a specified thing or
quality (beatnik). [russian (as *sputnik) and yiddish]
Nikkei index n. (also nikkei average) a figure indicating the relative price of
representative shares on the tokyo stock exchange. [japanese]
Nimble adj. (-bler, -blest) quick and light in movement or function; agile. nimbly
adv. [old english, = quick to seize]
Nine adj. & n. 1 one more than eight. 2 symbol for this (9, ix, ix). 3 size etc.
Denoted by nine. [old english]
Ninefold adj. & adv. 1 nine times as much or as many. 2 consisting of nine parts.
Ninepin n. 1 (in pl.; usu. Treated as sing.) Game in which nine pins are bowled
at. 2 pin used in this game.
at. 2 pin used in this game.
Nineteen adj. & n. 1 one more than eighteen. 2 symbol for this (19, xix, xix). 3
size etc. Denoted by nineteen. talk nineteen to the dozen see *dozen. nineteenth
adj. & n. [old english]
Ninety adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 product of nine and ten. 2 symbol for this (90, xc,
xc). 3 (in pl.) Numbers from 90 to 99, esp. The years of a century or of a
person’s life. ninetieth adj. & n. [old english]
Ninth adj. & n. 1 next after eighth. 2 any of nine equal parts of a thing. ninthly
adv.
Nip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 pinch, squeeze, or bite sharply. 2 (often foll. By off) remove
by pinching etc. 3 (of the cold etc.) Cause pain or harm to. 4 (foll. By in, out,
etc.) Colloq. Go nimbly or quickly. —n. 1 a pinch, sharp squeeze. B bite. 2
biting cold. nip in the bud suppress or destroy (esp. An idea) at an early stage.
[low german or dutch]
Nip2 n. Small quantity of spirits. [from nipperkin small measure]
Nipper n. 1 person or thing that nips. 2 claw of a crab etc. 3 colloq. Young child.
4 (in pl.) Any tool for gripping or cutting.
Nippy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 quick, nimble. 2 chilly. [from *nip1]
Nissen hut n. Tunnel-shaped hut of corrugated iron with a cement floor. [nissen,
name of an engineer]
Nit n. 1 egg or young form of a louse or other parasitic insect. 2 slang stupid
person. [old english]
Nitrate —n. 1 any salt or ester of nitric acid. 2 potassium or sodium nitrate as a
Nitrate —n. 1 any salt or ester of nitric acid. 2 potassium or sodium nitrate as a
fertilizer. —v. (-ting) treat, combine, or impregnate with nitric acid. nitration n.
[french: related to *nitre]
No1 adj. 1 not any (there is no excuse). 2 not a, quite other than (is no fool). 3
hardly any (did it in no time). 4 used elliptically in a notice etc., to forbid etc.
The thing specified (no parking). no way colloq. 1 it is impossible. 2 i will not
agree etc. No wonder see wonder. [related to none]
No2 —adv. 1 indicating that the answer to the question is negative, the statement
etc. Made or course of action intended or conclusion arrived at is not correct or
satisfactory, the request or command will not be complied with, or the negative
statement made is correct. 2 (foll. By compar.) By no amount; not at all (no
better than before). —n. (pl. Noes) 1 utterance of the word no. 2 denial or
refusal. 3 ‘no’ vote. no longer not now or henceforth as formerly. Or no or not
(pleasant or no, it is true). [old english]
Nobble v. (-ling) slang 1 try to influence (e.g. A judge), esp. Unfairly. 2 tamper
with (a racehorse) to prevent its winning. 3 steal. 4 seize, catch. [dial. Knobble
beat]
Nobel prize n. Any of six international prizes awarded annually for physics,
Nobel prize n. Any of six international prizes awarded annually for physics,
chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature, economics, and the promotion of
peace. [from nobel, swedish chemist and engineer, who endowed them]
Noble gas n. Any of a group of gaseous elements that almost never combine
with other elements.
Nobleman n. Peer.
Noblewoman n. Peeress.
Nocturnal adj. Of or in the night; done or active by night. [latin nox noct-night]
Nod —v. (-dd-) 1 incline one’s head slightly and briefly in assent, greeting, or
command. 2 let one’s head fall forward in drowsiness; be drowsy. 3 incline
(one’s head). 4 signify (assent etc.) By a nod. 5 (of flowers, plumes, etc.) Bend
downwards and sway. 6 make a mistake due to a momentary lack of alertness or
attention. —n. Nodding of the head. nod off colloq. Fall asleep. [origin
unknown]
Node n. 1 a part of a plant stem from which leaves emerge. B knob on a root or
branch. 2 natural swelling. 3 either of two points at which a planet’s orbit
intersects the plane of the ecliptic or the celestial equator. 4 point of minimum
disturbance in a standing wave system. 5 point at which a curve intersects itself.
6 component in a computer network. nodal adj. [latin nodus knot]
Noggin n. 1 small mug. 2 small measure, usu. 1/4 pint, of spirits. 3 slang head.
[origin unknown]
Noise —n. 1 sound, esp. A loud or unpleasant one. 2 series or confusion of loud
sounds. 3 irregular fluctuations accompanying a transmitted signal. 4 (in pl.)
Conventional remarks, or speechlike sounds without actual words (made
sympathetic noises). —v. (-sing) (usu. In passive) make public; spread abroad (a
person’s fame or a fact). [latin *nausea]
Noisy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 making much noise. 2 full of noise. noisily adv.
Noisiness n.
No man’s land n. 1 space between two opposing armies. 2 area not assigned to
any owner.
Nom de plume n. (pl. Noms de plume pronunc. Same) writer’s assumed name.
[sham french, = pen-name]
Nominal adj. 1 existing in name only; not real or actual. 2 (of a sum of money
etc.) Very small. 3 of or in names (nominal and essential distinctions). 4 of, as,
or like a noun. nominally adv. [latin nomen name]
Nominative gram. —n. Case expressing the subject of a verb. —adj. Of or in this
Nominative gram. —n. Case expressing the subject of a verb. —adj. Of or in this
case.
Non-prefix giving the negative sense of words with which it is combined. [latin
non not]
Non-prefix giving the negative sense of words with which it is combined. [latin
non not]
Usage the number of words that can be formed from the suffix non-is unlimited;
consequently, only the most current and noteworthy can be given here.
Nonagon n. Plane figure with nine sides and angles. [latin nonus ninth, after
*hexagon]
Non-aligned adj. (of a state) not aligned with a major power. non-alignment n.
Nonce n. for the nonce for the time being; for the present occasion. [from for
than anes = for the one]
Non compos mentis adj. (also non compos) not in one’s right mind. [latin, = not
having control of one’s mind]
None —pron. 1 (foll. By of) a not any of (none of this concerns me; none of
them have found it). B not any one of (none of them has come). 2 a no persons
(none but fools believe it). B no person (none but a fool believes it). 3 (usu. With
(none but fools believe it). B no person (none but a fool believes it). 3 (usu. With
the preceding noun implied) not any (you have money and i have none). —adv.
(foll. By the + compar., or so, too) by no amount; not at all (am none the wiser).
[old english, = not one]
Usage in sense 1b, the verb following none can be singular or plural according to
meaning.
Nones n.pl. Day of the ancient roman month (the 7th day of march, may, july,
and october, the 5th of other months). [latin nonus ninth]
Non-ferrous adj. (of a metal) other than iron or steel.
Non-interference n. = *non-intervention.
Non-nuclear adj. 1 not involving nuclei or nuclear energy. 2 (of a state etc.) Not
having nuclear weapons.
Non sequitur n. Conclusion that does not logically follow from the premisses.
[latin, = it does not follow]
Non-smoker n. 1 person who does not smoke. 2 train compartment etc. Where
smoking is forbidden. non-smoking adj.
Non-stop —adj. 1 (of a train etc.) Not stopping at intermediate places. 2 done
Non-stop —adj. 1 (of a train etc.) Not stopping at intermediate places. 2 done
without a stop or intermission. —adv. Without stopping.
Non-u adj. Colloq. Not characteristic of the upper class. [from *u2]
Non-union adj. 1 not belonging to a trade union. 2 not done or made by trade-
union members.
Non-voting adj. 1 not having or using a vote. 2 (of shares) not entitling the
holder to vote.
Noodle1 n. Strip or ring of pasta. [german]
Noon n. Twelve o’clock in the day, midday. [latin nona (hora) ninth (hour):
originally = 3 p.m.]
Noonday n. Midday.
Noose —n. 1 loop with a running knot. 2 snare, bond. —v. (-sing) catch with or
enclose in a noose. [french no(u)s from latin nodus *node]
Nor conj. And not; and not either (neither one thing nor the other; can neither
read nor write). [contraction of obsolete nother: related to no2, whether]
Nor’ n., adj., & adv. (esp. In compounds) = *north (nor’wester). [abbreviation]
Norfolk jacket n. Man’s loose belted jacket with box pleats. [norfolk in england]
Norman french n. French as spoken by the normans or (after 1066) in english
lawcourts.
North —n. 1 a point of the horizon 90° anticlockwise from east. B compass point
corresponding to this. C direction in which this lies. 2 (usu. The north) a part of a
country or town lying to the north. B the industrialized nations. —adj. 1 towards,
at, near, or facing the north. 2 from the north (north wind). —adv. 1 towards, at,
or near the north. 2 (foll. By of) further north than. to the north (often foll. By of)
in a northerly direction. [old english]
Northeast —n. 1 point of the horizon midway between north and east. 2
direction in which this lies. —adj. Of, towards, or coming from the north-east.
—adv. Towards, at, or near the north-east.
Northerly —adj. & adv. 1 in a northern position or direction. 2 (of wind) from
the north. —n. (pl. -ies) such a wind.
Northward —adj. & adv. (also northwards) towards the north. —n. Northward
direction or region.
Northwest —n. 1 point of the horizon midway between north and west. 2
direction in which this lies. —adj. Of, towards, or coming from the north-west.
—adv. Towards, at, or near the north-west.
Nor’wester n. Northwester.
Nose —n. 1 organ above the mouth of a human or animal, used for smelling and
breathing. 2 a sense of smell. B ability to detect a particular thing (a nose for
scandal). 3 odour or perfume of wine etc. 4 front end or projecting part of a
thing, e.g. Of a car or aircraft. —v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By about, around, etc.)
Pry or search. 2 (often foll. By out) a perceive the smell of, discover by smell. B
detect. 3 thrust one’s nose against or into. 4 make one’s way cautiously forward.
by a nose by a very narrow margin.
Nosedive —n. 1 steep downward plunge by an aeroplane. 2 sudden plunge or
drop. —v. (-ving) make a nosedive.
Nose-to-tail adj. & adv. (of vehicles) one close behind another.
Nostril n. Either of the two openings in the nose. [old english, = nose-hole]
Nostrum n. 1 quack remedy, patent medicine. 2 pet scheme, esp. For political or
social reform. [latin, = ‘of our own make’]
Nosy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Inquisitive, prying. nosily adv. Nosiness n.
Not adv. Expressing negation, esp.: 1 (also n’t joined to a preceding verb)
following an auxiliary verb or be or (in a question) the subject of such a verb (i
cannot say; she isn’t there; am i not right?). 2 used elliptically for a negative
phrase etc. (is she coming? — i hope not; do you want it? — certainly not!). not
at all (in polite reply to thanks) there is no need for thanks. Not half see *half.
Not quite 1 almost. 2 noticeably not (not quite proper). [contraction of *nought]
Usage the use of not with verbs other than auxiliaries or be is now archaic except
with participles and infinitives (not knowing, i cannot say; we asked them not to
come).
Notary n. (pl. -ies) (in full notary public) solicitor etc. Who attests or certifies
deeds etc. notarial adj. [latin notarius secretary]
Notch —n. V-shaped indentation on an edge or surface. —v. 1 make notches in.
2 (usu. Foll. By up) record or score with or as with notches. [anglo-french]
Note —n. 1 brief written record as an aid to memory (often in pl.: make notes). 2
observation, usu. Unwritten, of experiences etc. (compare notes). 3 short or
informal letter. 4 formal diplomatic communication. 5 short annotation or
additional explanation in a book etc. 6 a = *banknote. B written promise of
payment. 7 a notice, attention (worthy of note). B eminence (person of note). 8 a
single musical tone of definite pitch. B written sign representing its pitch and
duration. C key of a piano etc. 9 quality or tone of speaking, expressing mood or
attitude etc. (note of optimism). —v. (-ting) 1 observe, notice; give attention to.
2 (often foll. By down) record as a thing to be remembered or observed. 3 (in
passive; often foll. By for) be well known. hit (or strike) the right note speak or
act in exactly the right manner. [latin nota mark (n.), noto mark (v.)]
Notelet n. Small folded usu. Decorated sheet of paper for an informal letter.
Nothing —n. 1 not anything (nothing has been done). 2 no thing (often foll. By
compl.: i see nothing that i want). 3 person or thing of no importance. 4 non-
existence; what does not exist. 5 no amount; nought. —adv. Not at all, in no
way. be (or have) nothing to do with 1 have no connection with. 2 not be
involved or associated with. For nothing 1 at no cost. 2 to no purpose. Have
nothing on 1 be naked. 2 have no engagements. Nothing doing colloq. 1 no
prospect of success or agreement. 2 i refuse. [old english: related to no1, thing]
Notifiable adj. (of a disease etc.) That must be notified to the health authorities.
Notify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By of or that) inform or give formal notice to
(a person). 2 make known. notification n. [latin notus known]
Nougat n. Sweet made from sugar or honey, nuts, and egg-white. [french from
provençal]
Noun n. Word used to name a person, place, or thing. [latin nomen name]
Nourish v. 1 sustain with food. 2 foster or cherish (a feeling etc.). nourishing adj.
[latin nutrio to feed]
Nouveau riche n. (pl. Nouveaux riches pronunc. Same) person who has recently
acquired (usu. Ostentatious) wealth. [french, = new rich]
Nova n. (pl. Novae or -s) star showing a sudden burst of brightness and then
subsiding. [latin, = new]
Novella n. (pl. -s) short novel or narrative story. [italian: related to *novel1]
November n. Eleventh month of the year. [latin novem nine, originally the 9th
month of the roman year]
Nowadays —adv. At the present time or age; in these times. —n. The present
time.
Nozzle n. Spout on a hose etc. From which a jet issues. [diminutive of *nose]
Np symb. Neptunium.
Nth see *n1.
Nuance n. Subtle shade of meaning, feeling, colour, etc. [latin nubes cloud]
Nub n. 1 point or gist (of a matter or story). 2 (also nubble) small lump, esp. Of
coal. nubbly adj. [related to *knob]
Nuclear adj. 1 of, relating to, or constituting a nucleus. 2 using nuclear energy.
Nuclear bomb n. Bomb using the release of energy by nuclear fission or fusion
or both.
Nuclear fusion n. Nuclear reaction in which atomic nuclei of low atomic number
fuse to form a heavier nucleus with the release of energy.
Nucleate —adj. Having a nucleus. —v. (-ting) form or form into a nucleus.
[latin: related to *nucleus]
Nucleic acid n. Either of two complex organic molecules (dna and rna), present
in all living cells.
Nucleus n. (pl. Nuclei) 1 a central part or thing round which others are collected.
B kernel of an aggregate or mass. 2 initial part meant to receive additions. 3
central core of an atom. 4 large dense part of a cell, containing the genetic
material. [latin, = kernel, diminutive of nux nuc-nut]
Nude —adj. Naked, bare, unclothed. —n. 1 painting, sculpture, etc. Of a nude
human figure. 2 nude person. in the nude naked. nudity n. [latin nudus]
Nudge —v. (-ging) 1 prod gently with the elbow to attract attention. 2 push
gradually. —n. Prod; gentle push. [origin unknown]
Nugatory adj. 1 futile, trifling. 2 inoperative; not valid. [latin nugae jests]
Nuke colloq. —n. Nuclear weapon. —v. (-king) attack with nuclear weapons.
[abbreviation]
Null adj. 1 (esp. Null and void) invalid. 2 non-existent. 3 without character or
expression. nullity n. [latin nullus none]
expression. nullity n. [latin nullus none]
Numb —adj. (often foll. By with) deprived of feeling; paralysed. —v. 1 make
numb. 2 stupefy, paralyse. numbness n. [obsolete nome past part. Of nim take:
related to *nimble]
Usage in sense 4b, a number of is normally used with a plural verb: a number of
problems remain.
Numberless adj. Innumerable.
Number one —n. Colloq. Oneself. —adj. Most important (the number one
priority).
Numerator n. Number above the line in a vulgar fraction showing how many of
the parts indicated by the denominator are taken (e.g. 2 in 2/3). [latin: related to
*number]
Nuptial —adj. Of marriage or weddings. —n. (usu. In pl.) Wedding. [latin nubo
nupt-wed]
Nurse —n. 1 person trained to care for the sick or infirm and assist doctors or
dentists. 2 = *nursemaid. —v. (-sing) 1 a work as a nurse. B attend to (a sick
person). 2 feed or be fed at the breast. 3 hold or treat carefully. 4 a foster;
promote the development of. B harbour (a grievance etc.). [latin: related to
*nourish]
Nursery n. (pl. -ies) 1 a a room or place equipped for young children. B = day
nursery. 2 place where plants are reared for sale. [probably anglo-french:
related to nurse]
Nursery school n. School for children between the ages of three and five.
Nursing home n. Privately run hospital or home for invalids, old people, etc.
Nurture —n. 1 bringing up, fostering care. 2 nourishment. —v. (-ring) bring up;
rear. [french: related to *nourish]
Nut n. 1 a fruit consisting of a hard or tough shell around an edible kernel. B this
kernel. 2 pod containing hard seeds. 3 small usu. Hexagonal flat piece of metal
etc. With a threaded hole through it for screwing on the end of a bolt to secure it.
4 slang person’s head. 5 slang crazy or eccentric person. 6 small lump (of coal
etc.). 7 (in pl.) Coarse slang testicles. do one’s nut slang be extremely angry. [old
english]
Nutmeg n. 1 hard aromatic seed used as a spice and in medicine. 2 e. Indian tree
bearing this. [french nois nut, mugue *musk]
Nuts predic. Adj. Slang crazy, mad. be nuts about (or on) colloq. Be very fond
of. [pl. Of *nut]
Nutty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a full of nuts. B tasting like nuts. 2 slang crazy. nuttiness
Nutty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a full of nuts. B tasting like nuts. 2 slang crazy. nuttiness
n.
Nux vomica n. 1 e. Indian tree. 2 seeds of this tree, containing strychnine. [latin,
= abscess nut]
Nuzzle v. (-ling) 1 prod or rub gently with the nose. 2 (foll. By into, against, up
to) press the nose gently. 3 nestle; lie snug. [from *nose]
Nylon n. 1 tough light elastic synthetic fibre. 2 nylon fabric. 3 (in pl.) Stockings
of nylon. [invented word]
O1 n. (also o) (pl. Os or o’s) 1 fifteenth letter of the alphabet. 2 (0) nought, zero.
O3 symb. Oxygen.
Oaf n. (pl. -s) 1 awkward lout. 2 stupid person. oafish adj. Oafishly adv.
Oafishness n. [old norse: related to *elf]
Oak n. 1 acorn-bearing tree with lobed leaves. 2 its durable wood. 3 (attrib.) Of
oak. 4 (the oaks) (treated as sing.) Annual race at epsom for fillies. [old english]
Oak-apple n. (also oak-gall) a kind of growth formed on oak trees by the larvae
of certain wasps.
Oakum n. Loose fibre obtained by picking old rope to pieces and used esp. In
caulking. [old english, = off-comb]
Oar n. 1 pole with a blade used to propel a boat by leverage against the water. 2
rower. put one’s oar in interfere. [old english]
Oasis n. (pl. Oases) 1 fertile place in a desert. 2 area or period of calm in the
midst of turbulence. [latin from greek]
Oat n. 1 a hardy cereal plant grown as food. B (in pl.) Grain yielded by this. 2
oat plant or a variety of it. 3 (in pl.) Slang sexual gratification. off one’s oats
colloq. Not hungry. oaten adj. [old english]
Oath n. (pl. -s) 1 solemn declaration naming god etc. As witness. 2 profanity,
curse. on (or under) oath having sworn a solemn oath. [old english]
Oatmeal n. 1 meal ground from oats. 2 greyish-fawn colour flecked with brown.
Obelus n. (pl. Obeli) dagger-shaped reference mark (†). [greek, = pointed pillar,
*spit2]
Obey v. 1 a carry out the command of. B carry out (a command). 2 do what one
is told to do. 3 be actuated by (a force or impulse). [latin obedio from audio hear]
Object —n. 1 material thing that can be seen or touched. 2 person or thing to
which action or feeling is directed (object of attention). 3 thing sought or aimed
at. 4 gram. Noun or its equivalent governed by an active transitive verb or by a
preposition. 5 philos. Thing external to the thinking mind or subject. —v. (often
foll. By to, against) 1 express opposition, disapproval, or reluctance. 2 protest.
no object not forming an important or restricting factor (money no object).
objector n. [latin jacio ject-throw]
Objective —adj. 1 external to the mind; actually existing. 2 dealing with outward
things or exhibiting facts uncoloured by feelings or opinions. 3 gram. (of a case
or word) in the form appropriate to the object. —n. 1 something sought or aimed
at. 2 gram. Objective case. objectively adv. Objectivity n. [medieval latin:
related to *object]
Objet d’art n. (pl. Objets d’art pronunc. Same) small decorative object. [french,
= object of art]
Oblate adj. Geom. (of a spheroid) flattened at the poles. [latin: related to *ob-;
cf. *prolate]
Oblique —adj. 1 slanting; at an angle. 2 not going straight to the point; indirect.
3 gram. (of a case) other than nominative or vocative. —n. Oblique stroke (/).
obliquely adv. Obliqueness n. Obliquity n. [french from latin]
Obliterate v. (-ting) blot out, destroy, leave no clear traces of. obliteration n.
[latin oblitero erase, from litera letter]
Oblong —adj. Rectangular with adjacent sides unequal. —n. Oblong figure or
object. [latin oblongus longish]
Obsess v. Fill the mind of (a person) continually; preoccupy. obsessive adj. & n.
Obsessively adv. Obsessiveness n. [latin obsideo obsess-besiege]
Obsidian n. Dark glassy rock formed from lava. [latin from obsius, discoverer of
a similar stone]
Obstacle n. Thing that obstructs progress. [latin obsto stand in the way]
Obstetrics n.pl. (treated as sing.) Branch of medicine and surgery dealing with
childbirth. obstetric adj. [latin obstetrix midwife, from obsto be present]
Obtuse adj. 1 dull-witted. 2 (of an angle) between 90° and 180°. 3 of blunt form;
not sharp-pointed or sharp-edged. obtuseness n. [latin obtundo obtus-beat
against, blunt]
Obviate v. (-ting) get round or do away with (a need, inconvenience, etc.). [latin
obvio prevent]
Oc-see *ob-.
Occident n. Poet. Or rhet. 1 (prec. By the) west. 2 western europe. 3 europe and
america as distinct from the orient. [latin occidens -entis setting, sunset, west]
Occlude v. (-ding) 1 stop up or close. 2 chem. Absorb and retain (gases). 3 (as
occluded adj.) Meteorol. (of a frontal system) formed when a cold front
overtakes a warm front, raising warm air from ground level. occlusion n. [latin
occludo occlus-close up]
Occult adj. 1 involving the supernatural; mystical. 2 esoteric. the occult occult
phenomena generally. [latin occulo occult-hide]
Occupant n. Person who occupies, esp. Lives in, a place etc. occupancy n. (pl. -
ies). [latin: related to *occupy]
Occupy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 live in; be the tenant of. 2 take up or fill (space, time, or
a place). 3 hold (a position or office). 4 take military possession of. 5 place
oneself in (a building etc.) Forcibly or without authority as a protest. 6 keep busy
or engaged. [latin occupo seize]
Ocean n. 1 large expanse of sea, esp. Each of the main areas called the atlantic,
pacific, indian, arctic, and antarctic oceans. 2 (often in pl.) Colloq. Very large
expanse or quantity. oceanic adj. [greek okeanos]
Ocher n. (brit. Ochre) 1 earth used as yellow, brown, or red pigment. 2 pale
brownish-yellow colour. ochreous adj. [greek okhra]
Ochre n. (us ocher) 1 earth used as yellow, brown, or red pigment. 2 pale
brownish-yellow colour. ochreous adj. [greek okhra]
Octa-comb. Form (also oct-before a vowel) eight. [latin octo, greek okto eight]
Octagon n. Plane figure with eight sides and angles. octagonal adj. [greek:
related to *octa-, -gonos -angled]
Octahedron n. (pl. -s) solid figure contained by eight (esp. Triangular) plane
Octahedron n. (pl. -s) solid figure contained by eight (esp. Triangular) plane
faces. octahedral adj. [greek]
Octane number n. (also octane rating) figure indicating the antiknock properties
of a fuel.
Octave n. 1 mus. A interval between (and including) two notes, one having twice
or half the frequency of vibration of the other. B eight notes occupying this
interval. C each of the two notes at the extremes of this interval. 2 eightline
stanza. [latin octavus eighth]
Octavo n. (pl. -s) 1 size of a book or page given by folding a sheet of standard
size three times to form eight leaves. 2 book or sheet of this size. [latin: related
to *octave]
October n. Tenth month of the year. [latin octo eight, originally the 8th month of
the roman year]
Octopus n. (pl. -puses) sea mollusc with eight suckered tentacles. [greek: related
to *octo-, pous foot]
Ocular adj. Of, for, or by the eyes; visual. [latin oculus eye]
Od slang —n. Drug overdose. —v. (od’s, od’d, od’ing) take an overdose.
[abbreviation]
Odd adj. 1 strange, remarkable, eccentric. 2 casual, occasional (odd jobs; odd
moments). 3 not normally considered; unconnected (in some odd corner; picks
up odd bargains). 4 a (of numbers) not integrally divisible by two, e.g. 1, 3, 5. B
bearing such a number (no parking on odd dates). 5 left over when the rest have
been distributed or divided into pairs (odd sock). 6 detached from a set or series
(odd volumes). 7 (appended to a number, sum, weight, etc.) Somewhat more
than (forty odd; forty-odd people). 8 by which a round number, given sum, etc.,
is exceeded (we have 102 – do you want the odd 2?). oddly adv. Oddness n. [old
norse oddi angle, point, third or odd number]
Odd man out n. Person or thing differing from the others in a group in some
Odd man out n. Person or thing differing from the others in a group in some
respect.
Oddment n. 1 odd article; something left over. 2 (in pl.) Miscellaneous articles.
Odds n.pl. 1 ratio between the amounts staked by the parties to a bet, based on
the expected probability either way. 2 balance of probability or advantage (the
odds are against it; the odds are in your favour). 3 difference giving an
advantage (it makes no odds). at odds (often foll. By with) in conflict or at
variance. Over the odds above the normal price etc. [apparently from *odd]
Odds-on —n. State when success is more likely than failure. —adj. (of a chance)
better than even; likely.
Ode n. Lyric poem of exalted style and tone. [greek oide song]
Odyssey n. (pl. -s) long adventurous journey. [title of the homeric epic poem on
the adventures of odysseus]
Oedipus complex n. Child’s, esp. A boy’s, subconscious sexual desire for the
parent of the opposite sex. oedipal adj. [greek oidipous, who unknowingly
married his mother]
Oesophagus n. (us esophagus) (pl. -gi or -guses) passage from the mouth to the
stomach; gullet. [greek]
stomach; gullet. [greek]
Of-see *ob-.
Off —adv. 1 away; at or to a distance (drove off; 3 miles off). 2 out of position;
not on, touching, or attached; loose, separate, gone (has come off; take your coat
off). 3 so as to be rid of (sleep it off). 4 so as to break continuity or continuance;
discontinued, stopped (turn off the radio; take a day off; the game is off). 5 not
available on a menu etc. (chips are off). 6 to the end; entirely; so as to be clear
(clear off; finish off; pay off). 7 situated as regards money, supplies, etc. (well
off). 8 off stage (noises off). 9 (of food etc.) Beginning to decay. —prep. 1 a
from; away, down, or up from (fell off the chair; took something off the price). B
not on (off the pitch). 2 a temporarily relieved of or abstaining from (off duty). B
temporarily not attracted by (off his food). C not achieving (off form). 3 using as
a source or means of support (live off the land). 4 leading from; not far from (a
street off the strand). 5 at a short distance to sea from (sank off cape horn). —
adj. 1 far, further (off side of the wall). 2 (of a part of a vehicle, animal, or road)
right (the off front wheel). 3 cricket designating the half of the field (as divided
lengthways through the pitch) to which the striker’s feet are pointed. 4 colloq. A
annoying, unfair (that’s really off). B somewhat unwell (feeling a bit off). —n. 1
the off side in cricket. 2 start of a race. off and on intermittently; now and then.
Off the cuff see cuff1. Off the peg see peg. [var. Of *of]
Usage the use of off of for the preposition off (sense 1a), e.g. Picked it up off of
the floor, is non-standard and should be avoided.
Offal n. 1 less valuable edible parts of a carcass, esp. The heart, liver, etc. 2
refuse, scraps. [dutch afval: related to *off, *fall]
Offbeat —adj. 1 not coinciding with the beat. 2 eccentric, unconventional. —n.
Any of the unaccented beats in a bar.
Offend v. 1 cause offence to, upset. 2 displease, anger. 3 (often foll. By against)
do wrong; transgress. offender n. Offending adj. [latin offendo offens-strike
against, displease]
Offertory n. (pl. -ies) 1 offering of the bread and wine at the eucharist. 2
collection of money at a religious service. [church latin: related to *offer]
Offing n. More distant part of the sea in view. in the offing not far away; likely
to appear or happen soon. [probably from *off]
Offline computing —adj. Not online. —adv. With a delay between the
production of data and its processing; not under direct computer control.
Off-peak adj. Used or for use at times other than those of greatest demand.
Offscreen adj. & adv. Beyond the range of a film camera etc.; when not being
filmed.
Offshore adj. 1 at sea some distance from the shore. 2 (of the wind) blowing
seawards.
Offside —adj. (of a player in a field game) in a position where he or she may not
play the ball. —n. (often attrib.) Right side of a vehicle, animal, etc.
Offstage adj. & adv. Not on the stage; not visible to the audience.
Off white adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) white with a grey or yellowish
tinge.
Ogle —v. (-ling) look amorously or lecherously (at). —n. Amorous or lecherous
look. [probably low german or dutch]
Oh int. (also o) expressing surprise, pain, entreaty, etc. oh (or o) for i wish i had.
[var. Of *o4]
Oil —n. 1 any of various viscous, usu. Inflammable liquids insoluble in water
(cooking oil; drill for oil). 2 petroleum. 3 (in comb.) Using oil as fuel (oil-
heater). 4 a (usu. In pl.) = *oil-paint. B picture painted in oil-paints. —v. 1 apply
oil to; lubricate. 2 impregnate or treat with oil (oiled silk). oil the wheels help
make things go smoothly. [latin oleum olive oil]
Oilcake n. Compressed linseed from which the oil has been extracted, used as
fodder or manure.
Oil-paint n. (also oil-colour) paint made by mixing powdered pigment in oil. oil-
painting n.
Oilskin n. 1 cloth waterproofed with oil. 2 a garment of this. B (in pl.) Suit of
this.
Oilstone n. Fine-grained flat stone used with oil for sharpening flat tools, e.g.
Chisels, planes, etc.
Oily adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like oil. 2 covered or soaked with oil. 3 (of a manner
etc.) Fawning, unctuous, ingratiating. oiliness n.
Ointment n. Smooth greasy healing or cosmetic preparation for the skin. [latin
unguo anoint]
Ok (also okay) colloq. —adj. (often as int.) All right; satisfactory. —adv. Well,
satisfactorily. —n. (pl. Oks) approval, sanction. —v. (ok’s, ok’d, ok’ing)
satisfactorily. —n. (pl. Oks) approval, sanction. —v. (ok’s, ok’d, ok’ing)
approve, sanction. [originally us: probably abbreviation of orl (or oll) korrect,
jocular form of ‘all correct’]
Okapi n. (pl. Same or -s) african giraffe-like mammal but with a shorter neck
and striped body. [mbuba]
Okra n. Tall, orig. African plant with long ridged seed-pods used for food. [west
african native name]
-ol suffix in the names of alcohols or analogous compounds. [from *alcohol and
latin oleum oil]
Old adj. (older, oldest) 1 a advanced in age; far on in the natural period of
existence. B not young or near its beginning. 2 made long ago. 3 long in use. 4
worn, dilapidated, or shabby from the passage of time. 5 having the
characteristics of age (child has an old face). 6 practised, inveterate (old
offender). 7 belonging to the past; lingering on; former (old times; old
memories; our old house). 8 dating from far back; long established or known;
ancient, primeval (an old family; old friends; old as the hills). 9 (appended to a
period of time) of age (is four years old; four-year-old boy; a four-year-old). 10
(of a language) as used in former or earliest times. 11 colloq. As a term of
affection or casual reference (good old charlie; old thing). oldish adj. Oldness n.
[old english]
Old boy n. 1 former male pupil of a school. 2 colloq. A elderly man. B (as a
form of address) = *old man.
Old gold adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) dull brownish-gold colour.
Old gold adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) dull brownish-gold colour.
Old maid n. 1 derog. Elderly unmarried woman. 2 prim and fussy person.
Old man’s beard n. Wild clematis, with grey fluffy hairs round the seeds.
Old master n. 1 great artist of former times, esp. Of the 13th–17th c. In europe. 2
painting by such a painter.
Old norse n. 1 germanic language from which the scandinavian languages are
derived. 2 language of norway and its colonies until the 14th c.
Old school tie n. Excessive loyalty to traditional values and to former pupils of
one’s own, esp. Public, school.
Old testament n. Part of the bible containing the scriptures of the hebrews.
Olfactory adj. Of the sense of smell (olfactory nerves). [latin oleo smell, facio
make]
Oligocene —adj. Of the third geological epoch of the tertiary period. —n. This
epoch. [greek oligos little, kainos new]
Olive —n. 1 small oval hard-stoned fruit, green when unripe and bluish-black
Olive —n. 1 small oval hard-stoned fruit, green when unripe and bluish-black
when ripe. 2 tree bearing this. 3 its wood. 4 olive green. —adj. 1 olive-green. 2
(of the complexion) yellowish-brown. [latin oliva from greek]
Olive green adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) dull yellowish green.
Olympic —adj. Of the olympic games. —n.pl. (the olympics) olympic games.
[greek from olympia in s. Greece]
Olympic games n.pl. 1 ancient greek athletic festival held at olympia every four
Olympic games n.pl. 1 ancient greek athletic festival held at olympia every four
years. 2 modern international revival of this.
Omega n. 1 last (24th) letter of the greek alphabet (w, w). 2 last of a series; final
development. [greek o mega = great o]
Omelette n. Beaten eggs fried and often folded round a savoury filling. [french]
Omicron n. Fifteenth letter of the greek alphabet (o, o). [greek o mikron = small
o]
Omit v. (-tt-) 1 leave out; not insert or include. 2 leave undone. 3 (foll. By verbal
Omit v. (-tt-) 1 leave out; not insert or include. 2 leave undone. 3 (foll. By verbal
noun or to + infin.) Fail or neglect. [latin omitto omiss-]
On —prep. 1 (so as to be) supported by, attached to, covering, or enclosing (sat
on a chair; stuck on the wall; rings on her fingers; leaned on his elbow). 2 carried
with; about the person of (have you a pen on you?). 3 (of time) exactly at; during
(on 29 may; on the hour; on schedule; closed on tuesday). 4 immediately after or
before (i saw them on my return). 5 as a result of (on further examination).
Once —adv. 1 on one occasion only. 2 at some point or period in the past. 3 ever
or at all (if you once forget it). 4 multiplied by one. —conj. As soon as. —n. One
time or occasion (just the once). all at once 1 suddenly. 2 all together. At once 1
immediately. 2 simultaneously. For once on this (or that) occasion, even if at no
other. Once again (or more) another time. Once and for all (or once for all) in a
final manner, esp. After much hesitation. Once (or every once) in a while from
time to time. Once or twice a few times. Once upon a time at some unspecified
time in the past. [originally genitive of *one]
Oncogene n. Gene which can transform a cell into a cancer cell. [greek ogkos
mass]
One —adj. 1 single and integral in number. 2 (with a noun implied) a single
person or thing of the kind expressed or implied (one of the best; a nasty one). 3
person or thing of the kind expressed or implied (one of the best; a nasty one). 3
particular but undefined, esp. As contrasted with another (that is one view; one
night last week). 4 only such (the one man who can do it). 5 forming a unity (one
and undivided). 6 identical; the same (of one opinion). —n. 1 a lowest cardinal
number. B thing numbered with it. 2 unity; a unit (one is half of two; came in
ones and twos).
One another pron. Each the other or others (as a formula of reciprocity: love one
another).
One-horse attrib. Adj. 1 using a single horse. 2 colloq. Small, poorly equipped.
One-horse race n. Contest in which one competitor is far superior to all the
others.
One-off —attrib. Adj. Made or done as the only one; not repeated. —n. One-off
occurrence, achievement, etc.
Oneself pron. Reflexive and emphatic form of one (kill oneself; do it oneself). be
oneself act in one’s normal unconstrained manner.
One-to-one adj. & adv. 1 involving or between only two people. 2 with one
member of one group corresponding to one of another.
Onion n. Vegetable with an edible bulb of a pungent smell and flavour. oniony
adj. [latin unio -onis]
Only —adv. 1 solely, merely, exclusively; and no one or nothing more besides
(needed six only; is only a child). 2 no longer ago than (saw them only
yesterday). 3 not until (arrives only on tuesday). 4 with no better result than
(hurried home only to find her gone). —attrib. Adj. 1 existing alone of its or
their kind (their only son). 2 best or alone worth considering (the only place to
eat). —conj. Colloq. Except that; but (i would go, only i feel ill). [old english:
related to *one]
Usage in informal english only is usually placed between the subject and verb
regardless of what it refers to (e.g. I only want to talk to you); in more formal
english it is often placed more exactly, esp. To avoid ambiguity (e.g. I want to
talk only to you). In speech, intonation usually serves to clarify the sense.
Onscreen adj. & adv. Within the range of a film camera etc; when being filmed.
Onshore adj. 1 on the shore. 2 (of the wind) blowing landwards from the sea.
Usage the form onto is still not fully accepted in the way that into is, although it
is in wide use. It is however useful in distinguishing sense as between we drove
on to the beach (i.e. In that direction) and we drove onto the beach (i.e. In
contact with it).
Onward —adv. (also onwards) 1 forward, advancing. 2 into the future (from
1985 onwards). —adj. Forward, advancing.
Oomph n. Slang 1 energy, enthusiasm. 2 attractiveness, esp. Sex appeal. [origin
uncertain]
Ooze1 —v. (-zing) 1 trickle or leak slowly out. 2 (of a substance) exude fluid. 3
(often foll. By with) exude (a feeling) freely (oozed (with) charm). —n. Sluggish
flow. oozy adj. [old english]
Op-see *ob-.
Op. Cit. Abbr. In the work already quoted. [latin opere citato]
Open —adj. 1 not closed, locked, or blocked up; allowing access. 2 unenclosed,
unconfined, unobstructed (the open road; open views). 3 a uncovered, bare,
exposed (open drain; open wound). B (of a goal etc.) Unprotected, undefended. 4
undisguised, public, manifest (open hostilities). 5 expanded, unfolded, or spread
out (had the map open on the table). 6 (of a fabric) not close; with gaps. 7 a frank
and communicative. B open-minded. 8 a accessible to visitors or customers;
ready for business. B (of a meeting) admitting all, not restricted to members etc.
9 (of a race, competition, scholarship, etc.) Unrestricted as to who may compete.
10 (foll. By to) a willing to receive (is open to offers). B (of a choice, offer, or
opportunity) available (three courses open to us). C vulnerable to, allowing of
(open to abuse; open to doubt). 11 (of a return ticket) not restricted as to the day
of travel. —v. 1 make or become open or more open. 2 (foll. By into, on to, etc.)
(of a door, room, etc.) Give access as specified (opened on to a patio). 3 a start,
establish, or set going (a business, activity, etc.) (opened a new shop; opened
fire). B start (conference opens today). 4 (often foll. By with) start; begin
speaking, writing, etc. (show opens with a song; he opened with a joke). 5
ceremonially declare (a building etc.) In use. —n. 1 (prec. By the) a open space,
country, or air. B public notice; general attention (esp. Into the open). 2 open
championship or competition etc. open a person’s eyes enlighten a person. Open
out 1 unfold. 2 develop, expand. 3 become communicative. Open up 1 unlock
(premises). 2 make accessible. 3 reveal; bring to notice. 4 accelerate. 5 begin
shooting or sounding. openness n. [old english]
Opencast adj. (of a mine or mining) with removal of the surface layers and
working from above, not from shafts.
Open day n. Day when the public may visit a place normally closed to them.
Open-heart surgery n. Surgery with the heart exposed and the blood made to
bypass it.
Opening-time n. Time at which public houses may legally open for custom.
Open-plan adj. (of a house, office, etc.) Having large undivided rooms.
Open verdict n. Verdict affirming that a crime has been committed but not
specifying the criminal or (in case of violent death) the cause.
Operatic adj. Of or like an opera or opera singer (an operatic voice). operatically
adv.
Operculum n. (pl. -cula) 1 fish’s gill-cover. 2 any of various other parts covering
or closing an aperture in an animal or plant. [latin operio cover (v.)]
Opine v. (-ning) (often foll. By that) literary hold or express as an opinion. [latin
opinor believe]
Opinion n. 1 unproven belief. 2 view held as probable. 3 what one thinks about
something. 4 piece of professional advice (a second opinion). 5 estimation (low
opinion of). [latin: related to *opine]
Opium n. Drug made from the juice of a certain poppy, used esp. As an
analgesic and narcotic. [latin from greek opion]
Opportune adj. 1 well-chosen or especially favourable (opportune moment). 2
(of an action or event) well-timed. [latin opportunus (of the wind) driving
towards the *port1]
Opposable adj. Zool. (of the thumb in primates) capable of facing and touching
the other digits on the same hand.
Oppose v. (-sing) 1 set oneself against; resist; argue or compete against. 2 (foll.
By to) place in opposition or contrast. as opposed to in contrast with. opposer n.
[latin: related to *opponent]
Opposite —adj. 1 facing, on the other side (opposite page; the house opposite). 2
(often foll. By to, from) contrary; diametrically different (opposite opinion). —n.
Opposite thing, person, or term. —adv. Facing, on the other side (lives opposite).
—prep. 1 facing (sat opposite me). 2 in a complementary role to (another actor
etc.).
Oppressive adj. 1 oppressing. 2 (of weather) close and sultry. oppressively adv.
Oppressiveness n.
Opt v. (usu. Foll. By for) make a choice, decide. opt out (often foll. By of)
choose not to participate (in). [latin opto choose, wish]
Optic adj. Of the eye or sight (optic nerve). [greek optos seen]
Optical art n. Art using contrasting colours to create the illusion of movement.
Optical fibre n. Thin glass fibre through which light can be transmitted to carry
signals.
Optimize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make the best or most effective use of.
optimization n.
Optimum —n. (pl. Optima) 1 most favourable conditions (for growth etc.). 2
best practical solution. —adj. = *optimal. [latin, neuter of optimus best]
Or1 conj. 1 introducing an alternative (white or black; take it or leave it; whether
or not). 2 introducing an alternative name (the lapwing or peewit). 3 introducing
an afterthought (came in laughing – or was it crying?). 4 = or else 1 (run or
you’ll be late). or else 1 otherwise (run, or else you will be late). 2 colloq.
you’ll be late). or else 1 otherwise (run, or else you will be late). 2 colloq.
Expressing a warning or threat (be good or else). [old english]
-or suffix forming nouns denoting esp. An agent (actor; escalator) or condition
(error; horror). [latin]
Oral —adj. 1 by word of mouth; spoken; not written (oral examination). 2 done
or taken by the mouth (oral sex; oral contraceptive). —n. Colloq. Spoken
examination. orally adv. [latin os oris mouth]
Orange —n. 1 a roundish reddish-yellow juicy citrus fruit. B tree bearing this. 2
its colour. —adj. Orange-coloured. [arabic naranj]
Orangery n. (pl. -ies) place, esp. A building, where orange-trees are cultivated.
Oration n. Formal or ceremonial speech. [latin oratio discourse, prayer, from oro
speak, pray]
Oratorio n. (pl. -s) semi-dramatic work for orchestra and voices, esp. On a sacred
theme. [church latin]
Oratory n. (pl. -ies) 1 art of or skill in public speaking. 2 small private chapel.
oratorical adj. [french and latin oro speak, pray]
Orbit —n. 1 a curved course of a planet, satellite, etc. B one complete passage
around a body. 2 range or sphere of action. 3 eye socket. —v. (-t-) 1 move in
orbit round. 2 put into orbit. orbiter n. [latin orbitus circular]
Orbital adj. 1 of an orbit or orbits. 2 (of a road) passing round the outside of a
town.
Orcadian —adj. Of orkney. —n. Native of orkney. [latin orcades orkney islands]
Orchid n. Any of various plants with brilliant flowers. [greek orkhis, originally =
testicle]
Ordain v. 1 confer holy orders on. 2 decree, order. [latin ordino: related to
*order]
*order]
Order —n. 1 a condition in which every part, unit, etc. Is in its right place;
tidiness. B specified sequence, succession, etc. (alphabetical order; the order of
events). 2 authoritative command, direction, instruction, etc. 3 state of obedience
to law, authority, etc. 4 a direction to supply or pay something. B goods etc. To
be supplied. 5 social class; its members (the lower orders). 6 kind; sort (talents of
a high order). 7 constitution or nature of the world, society, etc. (the moral order;
the order of things). 8 taxonomic rank below a class and above a family. 9
religious fraternity with a common rule of life. 10 grade of the christian ministry.
11 any of the five classical styles of architecture (doric order). 12 a company of
persons distinguished by a particular honour (order of the garter). B insignia
worn by its members. 13 eccl. The stated form of divine service (the order of
confirmation). 14 system of rules or procedure (at meetings etc.) (point of order).
—v. 1 command; bid; prescribe. 2 command or direct (a person) to a specified
destination (ordered them home). 3 direct a waiter, tradesman, etc. To supply
(ordered dinner; ordered a new suit). 4 (often as ordered adj.) Put in order;
regulate (an ordered life). 5 (of god, fate, etc.) Ordain. in (or out of) order 1 in
the correct (or incorrect) sequence or position. 2 fit (or not fit) for use. 3
according (or not according) to the rules at a meeting etc. In order that with the
intention; so that. In order to with the purpose of doing; with a view to. Of (or
in) the order of approximately. On order ordered but not yet received. Order
about command officiously. To order as specified by the customer. [latin ordo
ordin-row, command, etc.]
Orderly —adj. 1 methodically arranged or inclined, tidy. 2 well-behaved. —n.
(pl. -ies) 1 male cleaner in a hospital. 2 soldier who carries orders for an officer
etc. orderliness n.
Ordinal n. (in full ordinal number) number defining position in a series, e.g.
‘first’, ‘second’, ‘third’, etc. [latin: related to *order]
Ordinary seaman n. Sailor of the lowest rank.
Ordovician —adj. Of the second period in the palaeozoic era. —n. This period.
[latin ordovices, an ancient british tribe in n. Wales]
Ore n. Solid rock or mineral from which metal or other valuable minerals may
be extracted. [old english]
Organ n. 1 a musical instrument having pipes supplied with air from bellows and
operated by keyboards and pedals. B instrument producing similar sounds
operated by keyboards and pedals. B instrument producing similar sounds
electronically. C harmonium. 2 a part of an animal or plant body serving a
particular function (vocal organs; digestive organs). B esp. Joc. Penis. 3 medium
of communication, esp. A newspaper representing a party or interest. [greek
organon tool]
Organist n. Organ-player.
Organize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 a give an orderly structure to,
systematize. B make arrangements for (a person or oneself). 2 initiate, arrange
for. 3 (often absol.) A enlist (a person or group) in a trade union, political party,
etc. B form (a trade union etc.). 4 (esp. As organized adj.) Make organic; make
into living tissue. organizer n. [latin: related to *organ]
Organza n. Thin stiff transparent silk or synthetic dress fabric. [origin uncertain]
Orgasm —n. Climax of sexual excitement. —v. Have a sexual orgasm. orgasmic
adj. [greek, = excitement]
Orgy n. (pl. -ies) 1 wild party with indiscriminate sexual activity. 2 excessive
indulgence in an activity. orgiastic adj. [greek orgia pl.]
Oriel n. (in full oriel window) projecting window of an upper storey. [french]
Orient —n. (the orient) countries east of the mediterranean, esp. E. Asia. —v. 1 a
place or determine the position of with the aid of a compass; find the bearings of.
B (often foll. By towards) direct.
Oriental (often oriental) —adj. Of the east, esp. E. Asia; of the orient. —n.
Native of the orient.
Orifice n. Opening, esp. The mouth of a cavity. [latin os or-mouth, facio make]
Originate v. (-ting) 1 cause to begin; initiate. 2 have as an origin; begin.
origination n. Originator n.
Oriole n. (in full golden oriole) bird with black and yellow plumage in the male.
[latin aurum gold]
Orotund adj. 1 (of the voice) full, round; imposing. 2 (of writing, style, etc.)
Pompous; pretentious. [latin ore rotundo with rounded mouth]
Orphan —n. Child whose parents are dead. —v. Bereave (a child) of its parents.
[latin from greek, = bereaved]
Orphanage n. Home for orphans.
Orrery n. (pl. -ies) clockwork model of the solar system. [earl of orrery]
Orthopaedics n.pl. (treated as sing.) (us -pedics) branch of medicine dealing with
the correction of diseased, deformed, or injured bones or muscles. orthopaedic
adj. Orthopaedist n. [greek pais paid-child]
adj. Orthopaedist n. [greek pais paid-child]
Os symb. Osmium.
Oscar n. Any of the statuettes awarded by the us academy of motion picture arts
and sciences for excellence in film acting, directing, etc. [man’s name]
Oscillate v. (-ting) 1 (cause to) swing to and fro. 2 vacillate; vary between
extremes. 3 (of an electric current) undergo high-frequency alternations.
oscillation n. Oscillator n. [latin oscillo swing]
-osity suffix forming nouns from adjectives in -ose and -ous (verbosity;
curiosity). [latin -ositas]
Osprey n. (pl. -s) large bird of prey feeding on fish. [latin ossifraga from os
bone, frango break]
Ossify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 turn into bone; harden. 2 make or become rigid, callous,
or unprogressive. ossification n. [latin: related to *osseous]
Ostensible adj. Concealing the real; professed. ostensibly adv. [latin ostendo
ostens-show]
Ostracize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) exclude from society; refuse to associate
with. ostracism n. [greek (ostrakon potsherd, on which a vote was recorded in
ancient athens to expel a powerful or unpopular citizen)]
Other —adj. 1 not the same as one or some already mentioned or implied;
separate in identity or distinct in kind (other people; use other means). 2 a
further; additional (a few other examples). B second of two (open your other
eye). 3 (prec. By the) only remaining (must be in the other pocket; where are the
other two?). 4 (foll. By than) apart from. —n. Or pron. Other person or thing.
Usage in sense 2 of other than, otherwise is standard except in less formal use.
Other day n. (also other night) (prec. By the) a few days (or nights) ago.
Otiose adj. Serving no practical purpose; not required. [latin otium leisure]
Otter n. 1 aquatic fish-eating mammal with webbed feet and thick brown fur. 2
its fur. [old english]
Ottoman —adj. 1 of the dynasty of osman (or othman) i or the empire ruled by
his descendants. 2 turkish. —n. (pl. -s) 1 turk of the ottoman period. 2 (ottoman)
upholstered seat without back or arms, sometimes a box with a padded top.
[french from arabic]
Ou abbr. 1 open university. 2 oxford university.
Ought v.aux. (as present and past, the only form now in use) 1 expressing duty
or rightness (we ought to be thankful; it ought to have been done long ago). 2
advisability (you ought to see a dentist). 3 probability (it ought to rain soon).
ought not negative form of ought (he ought not to have stolen it). [old english,
past of *owe]
Ouija n. (in full ouija board) propr. Board marked with letters or signs and used
with a movable pointer to try to obtain messages at a seance. [french oui, german
ja, yes]
Ours poss. Pron. The one or ones belonging to or associated with us (it is ours;
ours are best; a friend of ours).
-ous suffix 1 forming adjectives meaning ‘abounding in, characterized by, of the
nature of’ (envious; glorious; mountainous; poisonous). 2 chem. Denoting a state
of lower valence than -ic (ferrous; sulphurous). [anglo-french -ous, from latin
asus]
Oust v. Drive out or expel, esp. By seizing the place of. [latin obsto oppose]
Out —adv. 1 away from or not in or at a place etc. (keep him out; get out; tide is
out). 2 indicating: a dispersal away from a centre etc. (share out). B coming or
bringing into the open (call out; will look it out for you). C need for attentiveness
(watch out; listen out). 3 not in one’s house, office, etc. (tell them i’m out). 4 to
or at an end; completely (tired out; die out; fight it out; my luck was out; typed it
out). 5 (of a fire, candle, etc.) Not burning. 6 in error (was 3% out). 7 colloq.
Unconscious (is out cold). 8 (of a limb etc.) Dislocated (put his arm out). 9 (of a
political party etc.) Not in office. 10 (of a jury) considering its verdict. 11 (of
workers) on strike. 12 (of a secret) revealed. 13 (of a flower) open. 14 (of a
book, record, etc.) Published, on sale. 15 (of a star) visible after dark. 16 no
longer in fashion (turn-ups are out). 17 (of a batsman etc.) Dismissed from
batting. 18 not worth considering (that idea is out). 19 (prec. By superl.) Colloq.
Known to exist (the best game out). 20 (of a mark etc.) Removed (washed the
stain out). —prep. Out of (looked out the window). —n. Way of escape. —v.
Come or go out; emerge (murder will out). out for intent on, determined to get.
Out of 1 from within. 2 not within. 3 from among. 4 beyond the range of (out of
reach). 5 so as to be without, lacking (was swindled out of his money; out of
sugar). 6 from (get money out of him). 7 because of (asked out of curiosity). 8
by the use of (what did you make it out of?). Out of bounds see *bound2. Out of
date see date1. Out of order see order. Out of pocket see pocket. Out of the
question see question. Out of sorts see sort. Out of this world see world. Out of
the way see *way. Out to determined to. [old english]
Usage the use of out as a preposition, e.g. He walked out the room, is non-
standard. Out of should be used.
Out and about adj. Active outdoors (esp. After an illness etc.).
Outbid v. (-bidding; past and past part. -bid) bid higher than.
Outcome n. Result.
Outdo v. (-doing; 3rd sing. Present -does; past -did; past part. -done) exceed,
excel, surpass.
Outdoor attrib. Adj. 1 done, existing, or used out of doors. 2 fond of the open air
(an outdoor type).
Outdoors —adv. In or into the open air. —n. The open air.
Outer adj. 1 outside; external (pierced the outer layer). 2 farther from the centre
or the inside. outermost adj.
Outfox v. Outwit.
Outgoing —adj. 1 friendly. 2 retiring from office. 3 going out. —n. (in pl.)
Expenditure.
Outgrow v. (past -grew; past part. -grown) 1 grow too big for. 2 leave behind (a
childish habit etc.). 3 grow faster or taller than.
Outlaw —n. 1 fugitive from the law. 2 hist. Person deprived of the protection of
the law. —v. 1 declare (a person) an outlaw. 2 make illegal; proscribe.
Outlay n. Expenditure.
Outline —n. 1 rough draft. 2 summary. 3 sketch consisting of only contour lines.
4 (in sing. Or pl.) A lines enclosing or indicating an object. B contour. C external
boundary. 5 (in pl.) Main features or principles. —v. (-ning) 1 draw or describe
in outline. 2 mark the outline of.
Outlive v. (-ving) 1 live longer than (a person). 2 live beyond (a period or date).
Output —n. 1 amount produced (by a machine, worker, etc.). 2 electrical power
etc. Delivered by an apparatus. 3 printout, results, etc. From a computer. 4 place
where energy, information, etc. Leaves a system. —v. (-tt-; past and past part. -
put or -putted) (of a computer) supply (results etc.).
Outré adj. Eccentric, unconventional. [french, past part. Of outrer: see *outrage]
Outrigger n. 1 spar or framework projecting over the side of a ship, racing boat,
or canoe to give stability. 2 boat fitted with this.
Outrun v. (-nn-; past -ran; past part. -run) 1 run faster or farther than. 2 go
beyond (a point or limit).
Outsell v. (past and past part. -sold) 1 sell more than. 2 be sold in greater
quantities than.
Outshine v. (-ning; past and past part. -shone) 1 shine brighter than. 2 surpass in
excellence etc.
Outspoken adj. Saying openly what one thinks; frank. outspokenly adv.
Outspokenness n.
Ouzel n. (also ousel) 1 (in full ring ouzel) white-breasted thrush. 2 (in full water
ouzel) diving bird; dipper. [old english, = blackbird]
Ova pl. Of *ovum.
Ovary n. (pl. -ies) 1 each of the female reproductive organs in which ova are
produced. 2 hollow base of the carpel of a flower. ovarian adj.
Oven n. Enclosed compartment for heating or cooking food etc. [old english]
Oven-ready adj. (of food) prepared before sale for immediate cooking in the
oven.
Overall —attrib. Adj. 1 total, inclusive of all (overall cost). 2 taking everything
into account, general (overall improvement). —adv. 1 including everything (cost
£50 overall). 2 on the whole, generally (did well overall). —n. 1 protective outer
garment. 2 (in pl.) Protective outer trousers or suit.
Overarm adj. & adv. With the hand above the shoulder (bowl overarm; overarm
service).
Overbear v. (past -bore; past part. -borne) 1 (as overbearing adj.) A domineering,
bullying. B overpowering. 2 bear down by weight, force, or emotion. 3 repress
by power or authority.
Overbid —v. (-dd-; past and past part. -bid) make a higher bid than. —n. Bid
that is higher than another, or higher than is justified.
Overboard adv. From a ship into the water (fall overboard). go overboard colloq.
1 be highly enthusiastic. 2 behave immoderately.
Overbook v. (also absol.) Make too many bookings for (an aircraft, hotel, etc.).
Overcast adj. 1 (of the sky) covered with cloud. 2 (in sewing) edged with
stitching to prevent fraying.
Overcharge v. (-ging) 1 charge too high a price to (a person). 2 put too much
charge into (a battery, gun, etc.). 3 put excessive detail into (a description,
picture, etc.).
Overcome v. (-ming; past -came; past part. -come) 1 prevail over, master, be
victorious. 2 (usu. As overcome adj.) A make faint (overcome by smoke). B
(usu. Foll. By with, by) make weak or helpless (overcome with grief).
Overcrowd v. (usu. As overcrowded adj.) Fill beyond what is usual or
comfortable. overcrowding n.
Overdevelop v. (-p-) 1 develop too much. 2 photog. Treat with developer for too
long.
Overdo v. (-doing; 3rd sing. Present -does; past -did; past part. -done) 1 carry to
excess, go too far. 2 (esp. As overdone adj.) Overcook. overdo it (or things)
colloq. Exhaust oneself.
Overdraw v. (past -drew; past part. -drawn) 1 draw more from (a bank account)
than the amount credited. 2 (as overdrawn adj.) Having overdrawn one’s
account.
Overdue adj. Past the due time for payment, arrival, return, etc.
Overemphasize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) give too much emphasis to.
Overestimate —v. (-ting) form too high an estimate of. —n. Too high an
estimate. overestimation n.
Overexpose v. (-sing) 1 expose too much to the public. 2 expose (film) too long.
overexposure n.
Overflow —v. 1 flow over (the brim etc.). 2 a (of a receptacle etc.) Be so full
that the contents overflow. B (of contents) overflow a container. 3 (of a crowd
etc.) Extend beyond the limits of (a room etc.). 4 flood (a surface or area). 5 (of
kindness, a harvest, etc.) Be very abundant. —n. 1 what overflows or is
superfluous. 2 outlet for excess water etc.
Overfly v. (-flies; past -flew; past part. -flown) fly over or beyond (a place or
territory).
Overfond adj. (often foll. By of) having too great an affection or liking for
(overfond of chocolate; overfond parent).
Overgrown adj. 1 grown too big. 2 wild; covered with weeds etc. overgrowth n.
Overhang —v. (past and past part. -hung) project or hang over. —n. 1
overhanging. 2 overhanging part or amount.
Overhead —adv. 1 above head height. 2 in the sky. —adj. Placed overhead. —n.
(in pl.) Routine administrative and maintenance expenses of a business.
Overhear v. (past and past part. -heard) (also absol.) Hear unintentionally or as
an eavesdropper.
Overlap —v. (-pp-) 1 (cause to) partly cover and extend beyond (don’t overlap
them). 2 (of two things) be placed so that one overlaps the other (overlapping
tiles). 3 partly coincide. —n. 1 overlapping. 2 overlapping part or amount.
Overlay —v. (past and past part. -laid) 1 lay over. 2 (foll. By with) cover (a
thing) with (a coating etc.). —n. Thing laid over another.
Overlie v. (-lying; past -lay; past part. -lain) 1 lie on top of. 2 smother (a child
etc.) Thus.
Overload —v. 1 load excessively (with baggage, work, etc.). 2 put too great a
demand on (an electrical circuit etc.). —n. Excessive quantity or demand.
Overnight —adv. 1 for a night. 2 during the night. 3 instantly, suddenly. —adj. 1
done or for use etc. Overnight. 2 instant (overnight success).
Overpass n. Road or railway line that passes over another by means of a bridge.
Overpay v. (past and past part. -paid) pay too highly or too much. overpayment
n.
Overplay v. Give undue importance to; overemphasize. overplay one’s hand act
on an unduly optimistic estimation of one’s chances.
Overprint —v. Print over (a surface already printed). —n. Words etc.
Overprinted.
Overrate v. (-ting) 1 assess or value too highly. 2 (as overrated adj.) Not as good
as it is said to be.
Override —v. (-ding; past -rode; past part. -ridden) 1 (often as overriding adj.)
Have priority over (overriding consideration). 2 a intervene and make
ineffective. B interrupt the action of (an automatic device), esp. To take manual
control. —n. 1 suspension of an automatic function. 2 device for this.
control. —n. 1 suspension of an automatic function. 2 device for this.
Overrun v. (-nn-; past -ran; past part. -run) 1 swarm or spread over. 2 conquer (a
territory) by force. 3 (usu. Absol.) Exceed (an allotted time).
Overseas —adv. Across the sea; abroad. —attrib. Adj. Of places across the sea;
foreign.
Oversee v. (-sees; past -saw; past part. -seen) officially supervise (workers etc.);
superintend. overseer n.
Oversew v. (past part. -sewn or -sewed) sew (two edges) with stitches passing
over the join.
Overshadow v. 1 appear much more prominent or important than. 2 cast into the
shade.
Overshoot v. (past and past part. -shot) 1 pass or send beyond (a target or limit).
2 fly beyond or taxi too far along (the runway) when landing or taking off.
overshoot the mark go beyond what is intended or proper.
Oversleep v. (past and past part. -slept) sleep beyond the intended time of
waking.
Overspecialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) concentrate too much on one aspect
or area. overspecialization n.
Overspend v. (past and past part. -spent) spend too much or beyond one’s means.
Overspend v. (past and past part. -spent) spend too much or beyond one’s means.
Overspread v. (past and past part. -spread) 1 cover the surface of. 2 (as
overspread adj.) (usu. Foll. By with) covered.
Oversteer —n. Tendency of a vehicle to turn more sharply than was intended. —
v. (of a vehicle) exhibit oversteer.
Overstrung adj. 1 (of a person, nerves, etc.) Too highly strung. 2 (of a piano)
with strings in sets crossing each other obliquely.
Overstuffed adj. 1 (of furniture) made soft and comfortable by thick upholstery.
2 stuffed too full.
Overt adj. Done openly; unconcealed. overtly adv. [french, past part. Of ouvrir
open]
Overtake v. (-king; past -took; past part. -taken) 1 (also absol.) Catch up with
and pass while travelling in the same direction. 2 (of misfortune etc.) Come
suddenly upon.
Overthrow —v. (past -threw; past part. -thrown) 1 remove forcibly from power.
2 conquer, overcome. —n. Defeat, downfall.
Overtime —n. 1 time worked in addition to regular hours. 2 payment for this. —
adv. In addition to regular hours.
Overtone n. 1 mus. Any of the tones above the lowest in a harmonic series. 2
subtle extra quality or implication.
Overwind v. (past and past part. -wound) wind (a watch etc.) Beyond the proper
stopping point.
Overwork —v. 1 (cause to) work too hard. 2 weary or exhaust with too much
work. 3 (esp. As overworked adj.) Make excessive use of (an overworked
phrase). 4 (as overworked adj.) = *overwrought 2. —n. Excessive work.
Oviparous adj. Producing young from eggs hatching after leaving the body.
[from *ovum, latin -parus bearing]
Ovulate v. (-ting) produce ova or ovules, or discharge them from the ovary.
ovulation n. [related to *ovum]
Ovule n. Structure that contains the germ cell in a female plant. [related to
*ovum]
Ovum n. (pl. Ova) female egg-cell from which young develop after fertilization.
[latin, = egg]
Owing predic. Adj. 1 owed; yet to be paid. 2 (foll. By to) a caused by. B (as
prep.) Because of.
Owl n. 1 nocturnal bird of prey with large eyes and a hooked beak. 2 solemn or
wise-looking person. owlish adj. [old english]
Own brand n. (often attrib.) Goods manufactured specially for a retailer and
bearing the retailer’s name.
Own goal n. 1 goal scored by mistake against the scorer’s own side. 2 act etc.
That has the unintended effect of harming one’s own interests.
Ox n. (pl. Oxen) 1 large usu. Horned ruminant used for draught, milk, and meat.
Ox n. (pl. Oxen) 1 large usu. Horned ruminant used for draught, milk, and meat.
2 castrated male of a domesticated species of cattle. [old english]
Oxalic acid n. Very poisonous and sour acid found in sorrel and rhubarb leaves.
[greek oxalis wood sorrel]
Oxford blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) a dark blue, often with a purple
tinge.
Oxidation n. Process of oxidizing. [french: related to *oxide]
Oxidize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 combine with oxygen. 2 make or become
rusty. 3 coat (metal) with oxide. oxidization n.
Oxon abbr. (esp. In degree titles) of oxford university. [latin oxoniensis: related
to *oxonian]
Oxygen n. Tasteless odourless gaseous element essential to plant and animal life.
[greek oxus sharp, *-gen (because it was thought to be present in all acids)]
Oxygen tent n. Tentlike enclosure supplying a patient with air rich in oxygen.
Oyez int. (also oyes) uttered, usu. Three times, by a public crier or a court officer
to command attention. [anglo-french, = hear!, from latin audio]
Oyster white adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) greyish white.
Ozone layer n. Layer of ozone in the stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun’s
ultraviolet radiation.
P2 abbr. (also p.) 1 (on road signs) parking. 2 chess pawn. 3 proprietary.
P3 symb. Phosphorus.
Pa symb. Protactinium.
Pace1 —n. 1 a single step in walking or running. B distance covered in this. 2
speed in walking or running. 3 rate of movement or progression. 4 way of
walking or running; gait (ambling pace). —v. (-cing) 1 a walk slowly and evenly
(pace up and down). B (of a horse) amble. 2 traverse by pacing. 3 set the pace
for (a rider, runner, etc.). 4 (foll. By out) measure by pacing. keep pace (often
foll. By with) advance at an equal rate (to). Put a person etc. Through his (or her)
paces test a person’s qualities in action etc. Set the pace determine the speed;
lead. [french pas from latin passus]
Pace2 prep. (in stating a contrary opinion) with due respect to (the person
named). [latin, ablative of pax peace]
Pacifism n. Belief that war and violence are morally unjustifiable. pacifist n. &
adj.
Pacify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 appease (a person, anger, etc.). 2 bring (a country etc.) To
a state of peace. pacification n. Pacificatory adj.
Package —n. 1 a bundle of things packed. B parcel, box, etc., in which things
are packed. 2 (in full package deal) set of proposals or items offered or agreed to
as a whole. 3 computing piece of software suitable for a wide range of users. 4
colloq. = *package holiday. —v. (-ging) make up into or enclose in a package.
packager n.
packager n.
Package holiday n. (also package tour) holiday (or tour) with travel, hotels, etc.
At an inclusive price.
Packed lunch n. Lunch of sandwiches etc. Prepared and packed to be eaten away
from home.
Packer n. Person or thing that packs, esp. A dealer who prepares and packs food.
Packet n. 1 small package. 2 colloq. Large sum of money won, lost, or spent. 3
(in full packet-boat) hist. Mail-boat or passenger ship.
Pad1 —n. 1 thick piece of soft material used to protect, fill out hollows, hold or
absorb liquid, etc. 2 sheets of blank paper fastened together at one edge, for
writing or drawing on. 3 fleshy underpart of an animal’s foot or of a human
finger. 4 guard for the leg and ankle in sports. 5 flat surface for helicopter take-
off or rocket-launching. 6 slang lodgings, flat, etc. 7 floating leaf of a water lily.
—v. (-dd-) 1 provide with a pad or padding; stuff. 2 (foll. By out) lengthen or fill
out (a book etc.) With unnecessary material. [probably low german or dutch]
Pad2 —v. (-dd-) 1 walk with a soft dull steady step. 2 travel, or tramp along (a
road etc.), on foot. —n. Sound of soft steady steps. [low german pad *path]
Paddle2 —v. (-ling) walk barefoot, or dabble the feet or hands, in shallow water.
—n. Act of paddling. [probably low german or dutch]
Paddock n. 1 small field, esp. For keeping horses in. 2 turf enclosure at a
racecourse for horses or cars. [parrock, var. Of *park]
Paddy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Often offens. Irishman. [irish padraig patrick]
Paddy1 n. (pl. -ies) 1 (in full paddy-field) field where rice is grown. 2 rice before
threshing or in the husk. [malay]
Padlock —n. Detachable lock hanging by a pivoted hook on the object fastened.
—v. Secure with a padlock. [origin unknown]
Padre n. Chaplain in the army etc. [italian, spanish, and portuguese, = father,
priest]
Paediatrics n.pl. (treated as sing.) (us pediatrics) branch of medicine dealing with
children and their diseases. paediatric adj. Paediatrician n. [from *paedo-, greek
iatros physician]
Paella n. Spanish dish of rice, saffron, chicken, seafood, etc., cooked and served
in a large shallow pan. [latin *patella]
Page1 —n. 1 a leaf of a book, periodical, etc. B each side of this. C what is
written or printed on this. 2 episode; memorable event. —v. (-ging) paginate.
[latin pagina]
Page2 —n. 1 liveried boy or man employed to run errands, attend to a door, etc.
2 boy as a personal attendant of a bride etc. —v. (-ging) 1 (in hotels, airports,
etc.) Summon, esp. By making an announcement. 2 summon by pager. [french]
Pager n. Bleeping radio device, calling its wearer to the telephone etc.
Pail n. 1 bucket. 2 amount contained in this. pailful n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Pain —n. 1 any unpleasant bodily sensation produced by illness, accident, etc. 2
mental suffering. 3 (also pain in the neck or arse) colloq. Troublesome person or
thing; nuisance. —v. 1 cause pain to. 2 (as pained adj.) Expressing pain (pained
expression). be at (or take) pains take great care. In pain suffering pain.
Painful adj. 1 causing bodily or mental pain. 2 (esp. Of part of the body)
suffering pain. 3 causing trouble or difficulty; laborious (painful climb).
painfully adv.
Paint —n. 1 pigment, esp. In liquid form, for colouring a surface. 2 this as a
dried film or coating (paint peeled off). —v. 1 a cover (a wall, object, etc.) With
paint. B apply paint of a specified colour to (paint the door green). 2 depict (an
object, scene, etc.) In paint; produce (a picture) thus. 3 describe vividly (painted
a gloomy picture). 4 joc. Or archaic a apply make-up to (the face, skin, etc.). B
apply (a liquid to the skin etc.). paint out efface with paint. Paint the town red
colloq. Enjoy oneself flamboyantly. [latin pingo pict-]
Painter2 n. Rope attached to the bow of a boat for tying it to a quay etc. [origin
unknown]
Paint shop n. Part of a factory where cars etc. Are sprayed or painted.
Pair —n. 1 set of two people or things used together or regarded as a unit. 2
article (e.g. Scissors, trousers, or pyjamas) consisting of two joined or
corresponding parts. 3 a engaged or married couple. B mated couple of animals.
4 two horses harnessed side by side (coach and pair). 5 member of a pair in
relation to the other (cannot find its pair). 6 two playing-cards of the same
denomination. 7 either or both of two mps etc. On opposite sides agreeing not to
vote on certain occasions. —v. 1 (often foll. By off) arrange or be arranged in
couples. 2 a join or be joined in marriage. B (of animals) mate. [latin paria:
related to *par]
Paisley n. (pl. -s) (often attrib.) 1 pattern of curved feather-shaped figures. 2 soft
woollen shawl etc. Having this pattern. [paisley in scotland]
Pajamas n.pl. (brit. Pyjamas) 1 suit of loose trousers and jacket for sleeping in. 2
loose trousers worn by both sexes in some asian countries. 3 (pyjama) (attrib.)
Of either part of a pair of pyjamas (pyjama jacket). [urdu, = leg-clothing]
Pal —n. Colloq. Friend, mate, comrade. —v. (-ll-) (usu. Foll. By up) associate;
form a friendship. [romany]
Palaeolithic adj. (us paleolithic) of the early part of the stone age. [greek lithos
stone]
Palanquin n. (also palankeen) (in india and the east) covered litter for one.
[portuguese]
Palatal —adj. 1 of the palate. 2 (of a sound) made by placing the tongue against
the hard palate (e.g. Y in yes). —n. Palatal sound.
Palate n. 1 structure closing the upper part of the mouth cavity in vertebrates. 2
sense of taste. 3 mental taste; liking. [latin palatum]
Palatial adj. (of a building) like a palace; spacious and splendid. palatially adv.
[latin: related to *palace]
Palatine adj. (also palatine) hist. 1 (of an official etc.) Having local authority that
elsewhere belongs only to a sovereign (count palatine). 2 (of a territory) subject
to this authority. [latin: related to *palace]
Palaver n. Colloq. Tedious fuss and bother. [latin: related to *parable]
Pale1 —adj. 1 (of a person, colour, or complexion) light or faint; whitish, ashen.
2 of faint lustre; dim. —v. (-ling) 1 grow or make pale. 2 (often foll. By before,
beside) seem feeble in comparison (with). palely adv. Paleness n. Palish adj.
[latin pallidus]
Pale2 n. 1 pointed piece of wood for fencing etc.; stake. 2 boundary. beyond the
pale outside the bounds of acceptable behaviour. [latin palus]
Paleface n. Name supposedly used by n. American indians for the white man.
Paleocene (brit. Palaeocene) geol. —adj. Of the earliest epoch of the tertiary
period. —n. This epoch or system. [from *palaeo-, greek kainos new]
Paleolithic adj. (brit. Palaeolithic) of the early part of the stone age. [greek lithos
stone]
Palette n. 1 artist’s thin board or slab for laying and mixing colours on. 2 range
of colours used by an artist. [french from latin pala spade]
Palette-knife n. 1 thin flexible steel blade with a handle for mixing colours or
applying or removing paint. 2 blunt round-ended flexible kitchen knife.
Palisade —n. 1 fence of pales or iron railings. 2 strong pointed wooden stake. —
v. (-ding) enclose or provide with a palisade. [french: related to *pale2]
Pall1 n. 1 cloth spread over a coffin etc. 2 shoulder-band with pendants, worn as
an ecclesiastical vestment and sign of authority. 3 dark covering (pall of
darkness). [latin pallium cloak]
Pallet2 n. Portable platform for transporting and storing loads. [french: related to
*palette]
Pallid adj. Pale, esp. From illness. [latin: related to *pale1]
Palm1 n. 1 (also palm-tree) (usu. Tropical) treelike plant with no branches and a
mass of large leaves at the top. 2 leaf of this as a symbol of victory. [latin palma]
Palm2 —n. 1 inner surface of the hand between the wrist and fingers. 2 part of a
glove that covers this. —v. Conceal in the hand. palm off 1 (often foll. By on)
impose fraudulently (on a person) (palmed my old car off on him). 2 (often foll.
By with) cause (a person) to accept unwillingly or unknowingly (palmed him off
with my old car). [latin palma]
Palmate adj. 1 shaped like an open hand. 2 having lobes etc. Like spread fingers.
[latin palmatus: related to *palm2]
Palmistry n. Fortune-telling from lines etc. On the palm of the hand. palmist n.
Palm sunday n. Sunday before easter, celebrating christ’s entry into jerusalem.
Palsy —n. (pl. -ies) paralysis, esp. With involuntary tremors. —v. (-ies, -ied)
affect with palsy. [french: related to *paralysis]
Paltry adj. (-ier, -iest) worthless, contemptible, trifling. paltriness n. [from palt
rubbish]
rubbish]
Pamphlet —n. Small usu. Unbound booklet or leaflet. —v. (-t-) distribute
pamphlets to. [pamphilus, name of medieval poem]
Pan1 —n. 1 a broad usu. Metal vessel used for cooking etc. B contents of this. 2
panlike vessel in which substances are heated etc. 3 similar shallow container,
e.g. The bowl of a pair of scales. 4 lavatory bowl. 5 part of the lock in old guns.
6 hollow in the ground (salt-pan). —v. (-nn-) 1 colloq. Criticize severely. 2 a
(foll. By off, out) wash (gold-bearing gravel) in a pan. B search for gold thus.
pan out 1 (of an action etc.) Turn out; work out well or in a specified way. 2 (of
gravel) yield gold. panful n. (pl. -s). Panlike adj. [old english]
Pan2 —v. (-nn-) 1 swing (a film camera) horizontally to give a panoramic effect
or to follow a moving object. 2 (of a camera) be moved thus. —n. Panning
movement. [from *panorama]
Pan-comb. Form 1 all; the whole of. 2 relating to the whole of a continent, racial
group, religion, etc. (pan-american). [greek pan, neuter of pas pantos all]
Panama n. Straw hat with a brim and indented crown. [panama in central
america]
Pancake n. 1 thin flat cake of fried batter usu. Rolled up with a filling. 2 flat cake
of make-up etc.
Panchromatic adj. (of a film etc.) Sensitive to all visible colours of the spectrum.
Pancreas n. Gland near the stomach supplying digestive fluid and secreting
insulin. pancreatic adj. [greek kreas flesh]
Panda n. 1 (also giant panda) large bearlike black and white mammal native to
china and tibet. 2 (also red panda) reddish-brown himalayan racoon-like
mammal. [nepali]
Pandemic adj. (of a disease etc.) Widespread; universal. [greek demos people]
Pander —v. (foll. By to) gratify or indulge (a person or weakness etc.). —n. 1
procurer; pimp. 2 person who encourages coarse desires. [pandare, name of a
character in the story of troilus and cressida]
Pandora’s box n. Process that once begun will generate many unmanageable
problems. [a box in greek mythology from which many ills were released on
mankind]
Panel —n. 1 distinct, usu. Rectangular, section of a surface (e.g. Of a wall, door,
or vehicle). 2 strip of material in a garment. 3 team in a broadcast game,
discussion, etc. 4 a list of available jurors. B jury. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) fit, cover, or
decorate with panels. [latin diminutive of pannus: related to *pane]
Pang n. (often in pl.) Sudden sharp pain or painful emotion. [obsolete pronge]
Pannier n. Basket, bag, or box, esp. One of a pair carried by a donkey etc.,
bicycle, or motor cycle. [latin panis bread]
Pansy n. (pl. -ies) 1 cultivated plant with flowers of various rich colours. 2
colloq. Offens. A effeminate man. B male homosexual. [french pensée thought,
pansy]
Pant —v. 1 breathe with short quick breaths. 2 (often foll. By out) utter
breathlessly. 3 (usu. Foll. By for) yearn, crave. 4 (of the heart etc.) Throb
violently. —n. 1 panting breath. 2 throb. [greek: related to *fantasy]
Pantaloons n.pl. (esp. Women’s) baggy trousers gathered at the ankles. [french
from italian]
Pantheism n. 1 belief that god is in all nature. 2 worship that admits or tolerates
all gods. pantheist n. Pantheistic adj. [greek theos god]
Pantograph n. 1 instrument with jointed rods for copying a plan or drawing etc.
On a different scale. 2 jointed framework conveying a current to an electric
vehicle from overhead wires. [from pan-, -graph]
Pantry n. (pl. -ies) 1 small room or cupboard in which crockery, cutlery, table
linen, etc., are kept. 2 larder. [latin panis bread]
Pants n.pl. 1 underpants or knickers. 2 us trousers. bore (or scare etc.) The pants
off colloq. Bore, scare, etc., greatly. With one’s pants down colloq. In an
off colloq. Bore, scare, etc., greatly. With one’s pants down colloq. In an
embarrassingly unprepared state. [abbreviation of *pantaloons]
Pap1 n. 1 soft or semi-liquid food for infants or invalids. 2 light or trivial reading
matter. [low german or dutch]
Papacy n. (pl. -ies) 1 pope’s office or tenure. 2 papal system. [medieval latin
papatia: related to *pope]
Paper —n. 1 material made in thin sheets from the pulp of wood etc., used for
writing, drawing, or printing on, or as wrapping material etc. 2 (attrib.) A made
of or using paper. B flimsy like paper. 3 = *newspaper. 4 a printed document. B
(in pl.) Identification etc. Documents.
Paper tiger n. Apparently threatening, but ineffectual, person or thing.
Papier mâché n. Paper pulp moulded into boxes, trays, etc. [french, = chewed
paper]
Papist n. Often derog. 1 (often attrib.) Roman catholic. 2 hist. Advocate of papal
supremacy. [related to *pope]
Par n. 1 average or normal amount, degree, condition, etc. (feel below par). 2
equality; equal status or footing (on a par with). 3 golf number of strokes a first-
class player should normally require for a hole or course. 4 face value of stocks
and shares etc. (at par). 5 (in full par of exchange) recognized value of one
country’s currency in terms of another’s. par for the course colloq. What is
normal or to be expected. [latin, = equal]
Para-2 comb. Form protect, ward off (parachute; parasol). [latin paro defend]
Parabola n. Open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane
parallel to its side. parabolic adj. [greek parabole placing side by side: related to
*parable]
Paracetamol n. 1 drug used to relieve pain and reduce fever. 2 tablet of this.
[from para-acetylaminophenol]
Parallel —adj. 1 a (of lines or planes) continuously side by side and equidistant.
B (foll. By to, with) (of a line or plane) having this relation (to or with another).
2 (of circumstances etc.) Precisely similar, analogous, or corresponding. 3 a (of
processes etc.) Occurring or performed simultaneously. B computing involving
processes etc.) Occurring or performed simultaneously. B computing involving
the simultaneous performance of operations. —n. 1 person or thing precisely
analogous to another. 2 comparison (drew a parallel between them). 3 (in full
parallel of latitude) a each of the imaginary parallel circles of constant latitude
on the earth’s surface. B corresponding line on a map (49th parallel). 4 printing
two parallel lines (||) as a reference mark. —v. (-l-) 1 be parallel, or correspond,
to. 2 represent as similar; compare. 3 cite as a parallel instance. in parallel (of
electric circuits) arranged so as to join at common points at each end. parallelism
n. [greek, = alongside one another]
Paralytic —adj. 1 affected by paralysis. 2 slang very drunk. —n. Person affected
by paralysis.
Paramedical adj. (of services etc.) Supplementing and assisting medical work.
Paramilitary —adj. (of forces) organized on military lines. —n. (pl. -ies)
member of an unofficial paramilitary organization, esp. In n. Ireland.
Parapet n. 1 low wall at the edge of a roof, balcony, bridge, etc. 2 defence of
earth or stone. [french or italian: related to *para-2, petto breast]
Paraphrase —n. Expression of a passage in other words. —v. (-sing) express the
meaning of (a passage) thus. [greek: related to *para-1]
Paraplegia n. Paralysis below the waist. paraplegic adj. & n. [greek: related to
*para-1, plesso strike]
Parasol n. Light umbrella giving shade from the sun. [italian: related to *para-2,
sole sun]
Parboil v. Boil until partly cooked. [latin par- = per-, confused with part]
Parch v. 1 make or become hot and dry. 2 roast (peas, corn, etc.) Slightly. [origin
unknown]
Parchment n. 1 a skin, esp. Of sheep or goat, prepared for writing or painting on.
B manuscript written on this. 2 high-grade paper resembling parchment. [latin
pergamum, now bergama in turkey]
pergamum, now bergama in turkey]
Pardon —n. 1 forgiveness for an offence, error, etc. 2 (in full free pardon)
remission of the legal consequences of a crime or conviction. —v. 1 forgive or
excuse. 2 release from the legal consequences of an offence, error, etc. —int.
(also pardon me or i beg your pardon) 1 formula of apology or disagreement. 2
request to repeat something said. pardonable adj. [latin perdono: related to *per-,
dono give]
Pare v. (-ring) 1 a trim or shave by cutting away the surface or edge. B (often
foll. By off, away) cut off (the surface or edge). 2 (often foll. By away, down)
diminish little by little. [latin paro prepare]
Parent —n. 1 person who has or adopts a child; father or mother. 2 animal or
plant from which others are derived. 3 (often attrib.) Source, origin, etc. —v.
(also absol.) Be the parent of. parental adj. Parenthood n. [latin pario bring forth]
Par excellence adv. Being the supreme example of its kind (the short story par
excellence). [french]
Parfait n. 1 rich iced pudding of whipped cream, eggs, etc. 2 layers of ice-cream,
meringue, etc., served in a tall glass. [french parfait *perfect]
Parietal adj. Of the wall of the body or any of its cavities. [latin paries wall]
Parish n. 1 area having its own church and clergyman. 2 (in full civil parish)
local government district. 3 inhabitants of a parish. [latin parochia from greek
oikos dwelling]
Park —n. 1 large public garden in a town, for recreation. 2 land attached to a
country house etc. 3 a large area of uncultivated land for public recreational use.
B large enclosed area where wild animals are kept in captivity (wildlife park). 4
area for parking vehicles etc. (car park). 5 area for a specified purpose (business
park). 6 a us sports ground. B (usu. Prec. By the) football pitch. —v. 1 (also
absol.) Leave (a vehicle) temporarily. 2 colloq. Deposit and leave, usu.
Temporarily. park oneself colloq. Sit down. [french from germanic]
Parka n. 1 long usu. Green anorak with fur round the hood. 2 hooded skin jacket
worn by eskimos. [aleutian]
Parkinson’s law n. Notion that work expands to fill the time available for it.
[parkinson, name of a writer]
Parley —n. (pl. -s) conference of disputants, esp. To discuss peace terms etc. —
v. (-leys, -leyed) (often foll. By with) hold a parley. [french parler: related to
*parlance]
Parmesan n. Hard dry cheese made orig. At parma and usu. Used grated. [italian
parmegiano of parma]
Parochial adj. 1 of a parish. 2 (of affairs, views, etc.) Merely local, narrow, or
provincial. parochialism n. Parochially adv. [latin: related to *parish]
Parotid —adj. Situated near the ear. —n. (in full parotid gland) salivary gland in
front of the ear. [greek: related to *para-1, ous ot-ear]
Paroxysm n. 1 (often foll. By of) sudden attack or outburst (of rage, coughing,
etc.). 2 fit of disease. paroxysmal adj. [greek oxus sharp]
Parrot —n. 1 mainly tropical bird with a short hooked bill, often vivid plumage,
and the ability to mimic the human voice. 2 person who mechanically repeats
another’s words or actions. —v. (-t-) repeat mechanically. [french, diminutive of
pierre peter]
Parry —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 avert or ward off (a weapon or attack), esp. With a
countermove. 2 deal skilfully with (an awkward question etc.). —n. (pl. -ies) act
of parrying. [italian parare ward off]
Parsec n. Unit of stellar distance, equal to about 3.25 light-years. [from parallax,
second2]
Parsley n. Herb with crinkly aromatic leaves, used to season and garnish food.
[greek petra rock, selinon parsley]
Part —n. 1 some but not all of a thing or group of things. 2 essential member,
constituent, or component (part of the family; spare parts). 3 portion of a human
or animal body. 4 division of a book, broadcast serial, etc., esp. Issued or
broadcast at one time. 5 each of several equal portions of a whole (3 parts sugar
to 2 parts flour). 6 a allotted share. B person’s share in an action etc. (had no part
in it). C duty (not my part to interfere). 7 a character assigned to, or words
spoken by, an actor on stage. B melody etc. Assigned to a particular voice or
instrument. C printed or written copy of an actor’s or musician’s part. 8 side in
an agreement or dispute. 9 (in pl.) Region or district (am not from these parts).
10 (in pl.) Abilities (man of many parts). —v. 1 divide or separate into parts
(crowd parted). 2 a leave one another’s company (parted the best of friends). B
(foll. By from) say goodbye to. 3 (foll. By with) give up; hand over. 4 separate
(hair of the head) to make a parting. —adv. In part; partly (part iron and part
wood). for the most part see *most. For one’s part as far as one is concerned. In
part (or parts) partly. On the part of made or done by (no objection on my part).
Part and parcel (usu. Foll. By of) an essential part. Part company see *company.
Play a part 1 be significant or contributory. 2 act deceitfully. 3 perform a
theatrical role. Take in good part not be offended by. Take part (often foll. By in)
assist or have a share (in). Take the part of support; side with. [latin pars part-]
Partake v. (-king; past partook; past part. Partaken) 1 (foll. By of, in) take a share
or part. 2 (foll. By of) eat or drink some or colloq. All (of a thing). [back-
formation from partaker = part-taker]
Part-exchange —n. Transaction in which goods are given as part of the payment.
—v. Give (goods) thus.
Partial adj. 1 not complete; forming only part. 2 biased. 3 (foll. By to) having a
liking for. partiality n. Partially adv. Partialness n. [latin: related to *part]
Participant n. Participator.
Participate v. (-ting) (often foll. By in) take part or a share (in). participation n.
Participator n. Participatory adj. [latin particeps -cip-taking *part]
Participle n. Word formed from a verb (e.g. Going, gone, being, been) and used
Participle n. Word formed from a verb (e.g. Going, gone, being, been) and used
in compound verb-forms (e.g. Is going, has been) or as an adjective (e.g.
Working woman, burnt toast). participial adj. [latin: related to *participate]
Particolored adj. (brit. -coloured) of more than one colour. [related to *part,
*colour]
Particoloured adj. (us -colored) of more than one colour. [related to *part,
*colour]
Particularize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (also absol.) 1 name specially or one
by one. 2 specify (items). particularization n.
Partition —n. 1 structure dividing a space, esp. A light interior wall. 2 division
into parts, esp. Polit. Of a country. —v. 1 divide into parts. 2 (foll. By off)
separate (part of a room etc.) With a partition. [latin partior divide]
Partitive —adj. (of a word, form, etc.) Denoting part of a collective group or
quantity. —n. Partitive word (e.g. Some, any) or form. [french or medieval latin:
related to *partition]
Partner —n. 1 person who shares or takes part with another or others, esp. In a
business. 2 companion in dancing. 3 player (esp. One of two) on the same side in
a game. 4 either member of a married or unmarried couple. —v. Be the partner
of. [alteration of parcener joint heir]
Partnership n. 1 state of being a partner or partners. 2 joint business. 3 pair or
group of partners.
Partridge n. (pl. Same or -s) game-bird, esp. European or asian. [greek perdix]
Part-time —adj. (esp. Of a job) occupying less than the normal working week
etc. —adv. (also part time) as a part-time activity (works part time).
Parturient adj. Formal about to give birth. [latin pario part-bring forth]
Party —n. (pl. -ies) 1 social gathering, usu. Of invited guests. 2 people working
or travelling together (search party). 3 political group putting forward candidates
in elections and usu. Organized on a national basis. 4 each side in an agreement
in elections and usu. Organized on a national basis. 4 each side in an agreement
or dispute. 5 (foll. By to) law accessory (to an action). 6 colloq. Person. —v. (-
ies, -ied) attend a party; celebrate. [romanic: related to *part]
Party line n. 1 policy adopted by a political party etc. 2 shared telephone line.
Parvenu n. (pl. -s; fem. Parvenue) (often attrib.) Newly rich social climber;
upstart. [latin: related to *per-, venio come]
Pasha n. Hist. Title (placed after the name) of a turkish military commander,
governor, etc. [turkish]
Pass1 —v. 1 (often foll. By along, by, down, on, etc.) Move onward, esp. Past
something. 2 a go past; leave on one side or behind. B overtake, esp. In a
vehicle. 3 (cause to) be transferred from one person or place to another (title
passes to his son; pass the butter). 4 surpass; exceed (passes all understanding). 5
get through. 6 a go unremarked or uncensured (let the matter pass). B (foll. By
as, for) be accepted or known as. 7 move; cause to go (passed her hand over her
face). 8 a be successful or adequate, esp. In an examination. B be successful in
(an examination). C (of an examiner) judge (a candidate) to be satisfactory. 9 a
(of a bill) be approved by (parliament etc.). B cause or allow (a bill) to proceed.
C (of a bill or proposal) be approved. 10 occur, elapse; happen (time passes
slowly; heard what passed). 11 (cause to) circulate; be current. 12 spend (time or
a period) (passed the afternoon reading). 13 (also absol.) (in field games) send
(the ball) to a team-mate. 14 a forgo one’s turn or chance. B leave a quiz
question etc. Unanswered. 15 (foll. By to, into, from) change (from one form or
state to another). 16 come to an end. 17 discharge (esp. Faeces or urine) from the
body. 18 (foll. By on, upon) utter (legal sentence, criticism) upon; adjudicate. —
n. 1 act of passing. 2 a success in an examination. B university degree without
honours. 3 a permit, esp. For admission, leave, etc. B ticket or permit giving free
entry, access, travel, etc. 4 (in field games) transference of the ball to a team-
mate. 5 desperate position (come to a fine pass). in passing in the course of
conversation etc. Make a pass at colloq. Make sexual advances to. Pass away 1
euphem. Die. 2 cease to exist. Pass by 1 go past. 2 disregard, omit. Pass muster
see *muster. Pass off 1 (of feelings etc.) Disappear gradually. 2 (of proceedings)
be carried through (in a specified way). 3 (foll. By as) misrepresent or disguise
(a person or thing) as something else. 4 evade or lightly dismiss (an awkward
remark etc.). Pass on 1 proceed. 2 euphem. Die. 3 transmit to the next person in
a series. Pass out 1 become unconscious. 2 complete military training. Pass over
1 omit, ignore, or disregard. 2 ignore the claims of (a person) to promotion etc. 3
euphem. Die. Pass round 1 distribute. 2 give to one person after another. Pass the
time of day see time. Pass up colloq. Refuse or neglect (an opportunity etc.).
Pass water urinate. [latin passus pace1]
Passable adj. 1 barely satisfactory; adequate. 2 (of a road, pass, etc.) That can be
traversed. passably adv.
Passerine —n. Perching bird such as the sparrow and most land birds. —adj. Of
passerines. [latin passer sparrow]
Passover n. Jewish spring festival commemorating the exodus from egypt. [from
*pass1, *over]
Past —adj. 1 gone by in time (in past years; the time is past). 2 recently gone by
(the past month). 3 of a former time (past president). 4 gram. Expressing a past
action or state. —n. 1 (prec. By the) a past time. B past events (cannot undo the
past). 2 person’s past life, esp. If discreditable (man with a past). 3 past tense or
form. —prep. 1 beyond in time or place (is past two o’clock; lives just past the
pub). 2 beyond the range, duration, or compass of (past endurance). —adv. So as
to pass by (ran past). not put it past believe it possible of (a person). Past it
colloq. Old and useless. [from *pass1]
Pasta n. Dried flour paste in various shapes (e.g. Lasagne or spaghetti). [italian:
related to *paste]
Paste —n. 1 any moist fairly stiff mixture, esp. Of powder and liquid. 2 dough of
flour with fat, water, etc. 3 liquid adhesive used for sticking paper etc. 4 meat or
fish spread (anchovy paste). 5 hard glasslike composition used for imitation
gems. —v. (-ting) 1 fasten or coat with paste. 2 slang a beat or thrash. B bomb or
bombard heavily. pasting n. (esp. In sense 2 of v.). [latin pasta lozenge, from
greek]
Pastern n. Part of a horse’s foot between fetlock and hoof. [french from latin]
Pasteurize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) partially sterilize (milk etc.) By heating.
pasteurization n. [pasteur, name of a chemist]
Pastoral —adj. 1 of shepherds, flocks, or herds. 2 (of land) used for pasture. 3 (of
a poem, picture, etc.) Portraying (esp. Romanticized) country life. 4 of a pastor.
—n. 1 pastoral poem, play, picture, etc. 2 letter from a pastor (esp. A bishop) to
the clergy or people. [latin pastoralis: related to *pastor]
Pastry n. (pl. -ies) 1 dough of flour, fat, and water used as a base and covering
for pies etc. 2 cake etc. Made wholly or partly of this. [from *paste]
Pasture —n. 1 grassland suitable for grazing. 2 herbage for animals. —v. (-ring)
1 put (animals) to pasture. 2 (of animals) graze. [latin: related to *pastor]
Pasty1 n. (pl. -ies) pastry shaped around esp. A meat and vegetable filling. [latin:
related to *paste]
Pat1 —v. (-tt-) 1 strike gently with a flat palm, esp. In affection, sympathy, etc. 2
flatten or mould by patting. —n. 1 light stroke or tap, esp. With the hand in
affection etc. 2 sound made by this. 3 small mass (esp. Of butter) formed by
patting. pat on the back congratulatory gesture. [probably imitative]
Patchouli n. 1 strongly scented e. Indian plant. 2 perfume from this. [native name
in madras]
Patch test n. Test for allergy by applying patches of allergenic substances to the
skin.
skin.
Pâté n. Paste of mashed and spiced meat or fish etc. [french, = *pasty1]
Patella n. (pl. Patellae) kneecap. patellar adj. [latin, = pan, diminutive of patina:
related to *paten]
Patent —n. 1 official document conferring a right or title, esp. The sole right to
make, use, or sell a specified invention. 2 invention or process so protected. —
adj. 1 obvious, plain. 2 conferred or protected by patent. 3 a proprietary. B to
which one has a proprietary claim. —v. Obtain a patent for (an invention).
patently adv. (in sense 1 of adj.). [latin pateo lie open]
Paternal adj. 1 of, like, or appropriate to a father; fatherly. 2 related through the
father. 3 (of a government etc.) Limiting freedom and responsibility by well-
meant regulations. paternally adv. [latin: related to *pater]
Paternoster n. Lord’s prayer, esp. In latin. [latin pater noster our father]
Path n. (pl. Paths) 1 way or track made for or by walking. 2 line along which a
person or thing moves (flight path). 3 course of action. [old english]
Patina n. (pl. -s) 1 film, usu. Green, formed on old bronze. 2 similar film on
other surfaces. 3 gloss produced by age on woodwork. [latin: related to *paten]
Patio n. (pl. -s) 1 paved usu. Roofless area adjoining a house. 2 inner roofless
court in a spanish or spanish-american house. [spanish]
Patisserie n. 1 shop where pastries are made and sold. 2 pastries collectively.
[latin: related to *paste]
Patna rice n. Rice with long firm grains. [from patna in india]
Patois n. (pl. Same) regional dialect, differing from the literary language.
[french]
Patriarchy n. (pl. -ies) male-dominated social system, with descent through the
male line.
Patrician —n. Hist. Member of the nobility in ancient rome. —adj. 1 aristocratic.
2 hist. Of the ancient roman nobility. [latin patricius: related to *pater]
Patriot n. Person devoted to and ready to defend his or her country. patriotic adj.
Patriotically adv. Patriotism n. [greek patris fatherland]
Patristic adj. Of the early christian writers or their work. [latin: related to *pater]
Patristic adj. Of the early christian writers or their work. [latin: related to *pater]
Patrol —n. 1 act of walking or travelling around an area, esp. Regularly, for
security or supervision. 2 guards, police, etc. Sent out on patrol. 3 a troops sent
out to reconnoitre. B such reconnaissance. 4 unit of six to eight scouts or guides.
—v. (-ll-) 1 carry out a patrol of. 2 act as a patrol. [german patrolle from french]
Patronymic n. Name derived from the name of a father or ancestor (e.g. Johnson,
o’brien, ivanovich). [greek pater father, onoma name]
Patten n. Hist. Shoe or clog with a raised sole or set on an iron ring, for walking
in mud etc. [french patin]
Patter1 —n. Sound of quick light steps or taps. —v. Make this sound (rain
pattering on the window-panes). [from *pat1]
Patty n. (pl. -ies) little pie or pasty. [french *pâté, after *pasty1]
Paunch n. Belly, stomach, esp. When protruding. paunchy adj. (-ier, -iest).
[anglo-french pa(u)nche from latin pantices bowels]
Pause —n. 1 temporary stop or silence. 2 mus. Mark over a note or rest that is to
be lengthened. —v. (-sing) make a pause; wait. give pause to cause to hesitate.
[greek pauo stop]
Pavane n. (also pavan) hist. 1 a kind of stately dance. 2 music for this. [french
from spanish]
Pave v. (-ving) cover (a street, floor, etc.) With a durable surface. pave the way
(usu. Foll. By for) make preparations. paving n. [latin pavio ram (v.)]
Pavlova n. Meringue cake with cream and fruit. [pavlova, name of a ballerina]
Paw —n. 1 foot of an animal having claws or nails. 2 colloq. Person’s hand. —v.
1 strike or scrape with a paw or foot. 2 colloq. Fondle awkwardly or indecently.
[french poue from germanic]
Pawl n. 1 lever with a catch for the teeth of a wheel or bar. 2 naut. Short bar used
to lock a capstan, windlass, etc. [low german or dutch]
Pawn1 n. 1 chess piece of the smallest size and value. 2 person used by others
for their own purposes. [french poun from latin pedo -onis foot-soldier]
Pawn2 —v. 1 deposit (a thing) with a pawnbroker as security for money lent. 2
pledge or wager (one’s life, honour, etc.). —n. Object left in pawn. in pawn held
as security. [french pan from germanic]
Pax n. 1 kiss of peace. 2 (as int.) Slang call for a truce (used esp. By
schoolchildren). [latin, = peace]
Pay —v. (past and past part. Paid) 1 (also absol.) Give (a person etc.) What is
due for services done, goods received, debts incurred, etc. (paid him in full). 2 a
give (a usu. Specified amount) for work done, a debt, etc. (they pay £6 an hour).
B (foll. By to) hand over the amount of (a debt, wages, etc.) To (paid the money
to the assistant). 3 a give, bestow, or express (attention, a compliment, etc.) (paid
them no heed). B make (a visit) (paid a call on their uncle). 4 (also absol.) (of a
business, attitude, etc.) Be profitable or advantageous to (a person etc.). 5 reward
or punish (shall pay you for that). 6 (usu. As paid adj.) Recompense (work, time,
etc.) (paid holiday). 7 (usu. Foll. By out, away) let out (a rope) by slackening it.
—n. Wages. in the pay of employed by. Pay back 1 repay. 2 punish or have
revenge on. Pay for 1 hand over the money for. 2 bear the cost of. 3 suffer or be
punished for (a fault etc.). Pay in pay (money) into a bank etc. Account. Pay its
(or one’s) way cover costs. Pay one’s last respects attend a funeral to show
respect. Pay off 1 dismiss (workers) with a final payment. 2 colloq. Yield good
results; succeed. 3 pay (a debt) in full. Pay one’s respects make a polite visit. Pay
through the nose colloq. Pay much more than a fair price. Pay up pay the full
amount (of). Put paid to colloq. 1 deal effectively with (a person). 2 terminate
(hopes etc.). payee n. [latin paco appease: related to *peace]
Paying guest n. Boarder.
Paymaster n. 1 official who pays troops, workmen, etc. 2 usu. Derog. Person,
organization, etc., to whom another owes loyalty because of payment given. 3
(in full paymaster general) treasury minister responsible for payments.
Payola n. Esp. Us slang bribe offered for unofficial promotion of a product etc.
In the media.
Pd symb. Palladium.
Pea n. 1 a hardy climbing plant with edible seeds growing in pods. B its seed. 2
similar plant (sweet pea; chick-pea). [from *pease taken as a plural]
Peach1 n. 1 a round juicy fruit with downy yellow or pink skin. B tree bearing
this. 2 yellowish-pink colour. 3 colloq. A person or thing of superlative quality.
B attractive young woman. peachy adj. (-ier, -iest). [latin persica persian (apple)]
Peach2 v. (usu. Foll. By against, on) colloq. Turn informer; inform. [from
obsolete appeach: related to *impeach]
Peacock n. (pl. Same or -s) male peafowl, with brilliant plumage and an erectile
fanlike tail with eyelike markings. [from latin pavo peacock, *cock1]
Peacock blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) lustrous greenish blue of a
peacock’s neck.
Pea green adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) bright green.
Peak1 —n. 1 projecting usu. Pointed part, esp.: a the pointed top of a mountain.
B a mountain with a peak. C a stiff brim at the front of a cap. 2 a highest point of
a curve, graph, etc. (peak of the wave). B time of greatest success, fitness, etc. 3
attrib. Maximum, busiest (peak viewing; peak hours). —v. Reach its highest
value, quality, etc. (output peaked). peaked adj. [related to *pick2]
Peal —n. 1 a loud ringing of a bell or bells, esp. A series of changes. B set of
bells. 2 loud repeated sound, esp. Of thunder, laughter, etc. —v. 1 (cause to)
sound in a peal. 2 utter sonorously. [from *appeal]
Peanut n. 1 plant of the pea family bearing pods underground that contain seeds
used for food and oil. 2 seed of this. 3 (in pl.) Colloq. Paltry thing or amount,
esp. Of money.
Pear n. 1 yellowish or greenish fleshy fruit, tapering towards the stalk. 2 tree
bearing this. [latin pirum]
Pearl —n. 1 a (often attrib.) Rounded usu. White or bluish-grey lustrous solid
formed within the shell of certain oysters, highly prized as a gem. B imitation of
this. C (in pl.) Necklace of pearls.
Pearly —adj. (-ier, -iest) like, containing, or adorned with pearls; lustrous. —n.
(pl. -ies) 1 pearly king or queen. 2 (in pl.) Pearly king’s or queen’s clothes.
Pearly king n. (also pearly queen) london costermonger (or his wife) wearing
clothes covered with pearl buttons.
Pease-pudding n. Boiled split peas (served esp. With boiled beef or ham).
Peat n. 1 partly carbonized vegetable matter used for fuel, in horticulture, etc. 2
cut piece of this. peaty adj. [perhaps celtic: related to *piece]
Pebble n. Small stone worn smooth esp. By the action of water. pebbly adj. [old
english]
Peccadillo n. (pl. -es or -s) trifling offence; venial sin. [spanish pecadillo, from
Peccadillo n. (pl. -es or -s) trifling offence; venial sin. [spanish pecadillo, from
latin pecco to sin (v.)]
Peck1 —v. 1 strike or bite with a beak. 2 kiss hastily or perfunctorily. 3 a make
(a hole) by pecking. B (foll. By out, off) remove or pluck out by pecking. 4 (also
absol.) Colloq. Eat listlessly; nibble at. —n. 1 stroke, mark, or bite made by a
beak. 2 hasty or perfunctory kiss. peck at 1 eat (food) listlessly; nibble. 2 carp at;
nag. 3 strike repeatedly with a beak. [probably low german]
Pecker n. Us coarse slang penis. keep your pecker up colloq. Remain cheerful.
Pectin n. Soluble gelatinous carbohydrate found in ripe fruits etc. And used as a
setting agent in jams and jellies. pectic adj. [greek pegnumi make solid]
Pectoral —adj. Of or worn on the breast or chest (pectoral fin; pectoral muscle;
pectoral cross). —n. Pectoral muscle or fin. [latin pectus -tor-chest]
Peculiar adj. 1 strange; odd; unusual. 2 a (usu. Foll. By to) belonging exclusively
(peculiar to the time). B belonging to the individual (in their own peculiar way).
3 particular; special (point of peculiar interest). [latin peculium private property,
from pecu cattle]
Pederasty n. (also paederasty) anal intercourse between a man and a boy. [greek
pais paid-boy, erastes lover]
Pedestal n. 1 base supporting a column or pillar. 2 stone etc. Base of a statue etc.
put on a pedestal admire disproportionately, idolize. [italian piedestallo, = foot of
stall]
Pedestrian —n. (often attrib.) Person who is walking, esp. In a town. —adj.
Prosaic; dull; uninspired. pedestrianize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [latin:
related to *pedal]
Pedicure n. 1 care or treatment of the feet, esp. The toenails. 2 person practising
this for a living. [latin pes ped-foot, cura care]
Pediment n. Triangular part crowning the front of a building, esp. Over a portico.
[from periment, perhaps a corruption of *pyramid]
Pedlar n. (us peddler) 1 travelling seller of small items. 2 (usu. Foll. By of)
retailer (of gossip etc.). [alteration of pedder from ped pannier]
Pee colloq. —v. (pees, peed) urinate. —n. 1 act of urinating. 2 urine. [from
*piss]
Peek —v. (usu. Foll. By in, out, at) peep slyly, glance. —n. Quick or sly look.
[origin unknown]
Peel —v. 1 a strip the skin, rind, wrapping, etc. From. B (usu. Foll. By off) strip
(skin, peel, wrapping, etc.). 2 a become bare of skin, paint, etc. B (often foll. By
off) (of skin, paint, etc.) Flake off. 3 (often foll. By off) colloq. (of a person)
strip ready for exercise etc. —n. Outer covering of a fruit, vegetable, etc.; rind.
peel off veer away and detach oneself from a group etc. peeler n. [old english
from latin pilo strip of hair]
Peep1 —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By at, in, out, into) look through a narrow opening; look
furtively. 2 (usu. Foll. By out) come slowly into view; emerge. —n. 1 furtive or
peering glance. 2 first appearance (peep of day). [origin unknown]
Peep2 —v. Make a shrill feeble sound as of young birds, mice, etc. —n. 1 such a
sound. 2 slight sound, utterance, or complaint (not a peep out of them).
[imitative]
Peep-show n. Small exhibition of pictures etc. Viewed through a lens or hole set
into a box etc.
Peer1 v. (usu. Foll. By into, at, etc.) Look closely or with difficulty. [origin
unknown]
Peeve colloq. —v. (-ving) (usu. As peeved adj.) Irritate, annoy. —n. Cause or
state of irritation. [back-formation from *peevish]
Peg —n. 1 pin or bolt of wood, metal, etc., for holding things together, hanging
garments on, holding up a tent, etc. 2 each of the pins used to tighten or loosen
the strings of a violin etc. 3 pin for marking position, e.g. On a cribbage-board. 4
= *clothes-peg. 5 occasion or pretext (peg to hang an argument on). 6 drink, esp.
Of spirits. —v. (-gg-) 1 (usu. Foll. By down, in, out, etc.) Fix (a thing) with a
peg. 2 stabilize (prices, wages, etc.). 3 mark (the score) with pegs on a cribbage-
board. off the peg (of clothes) ready-made. Peg away (often foll. By at) work
consistently. Peg out 1 slang die. 2 mark the boundaries of. Square peg in a
round hole misfit. Take a person down a peg or two humble a person. [probably
low german or dutch]
Pegboard n. Board with small holes for pegs, used for displays, games, etc.
Pelargonium n. Plant with red, pink, or white flowers and, often, fragrant leaves;
geranium. [greek pelargos stork]
Pelican n. Large water-bird with a large bill and a pouch in its throat for storing
fish. [greek pelekan]
Pelisse n. Hist. 1 woman’s long cloak with armholes or sleeves. 2 fur-lined cloak
as part of a hussar’s uniform. [latin pellicia (garment) of fur, from pellis skin]
Pellagra n. Disease with cracking of the skin and often ending in insanity.
[italian pelle skin]
Pellet n. 1 small compressed ball of paper, bread, etc. 2 pill. 3 piece of small
shot. [french pelote from latin pila ball]
Pellucid adj. 1 transparent. 2 (of style, speech, etc.) Clear. [latin: related to *per-]
Pelmet n. Narrow border of cloth, wood, etc. Fitted esp. Above a window to
conceal the curtain rail. [probably french]
Pelt1 —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By with) strike repeatedly with thrown objects. 2 (usu.
Foll. By down) (of rain etc.) Fall quickly and torrentially. 3 run fast. —n.
Pelting. at full pelt as fast as possible. [origin unknown]
Pen1 —n. 1 instrument for writing etc. With ink. 2 (the pen) occupation of
writing. —v. (-nn-) write. [latin penna feather]
Pen2 —n. Small enclosure for cows, sheep, poultry, etc. —v. (-nn-) (often foll.
By in, up) enclose or shut up, esp. In a pen. [old english]
Penalty area n. Football ground in front of the goal in which a foul by defenders
involves the award of a penalty kick.
Penalty kick n. Football free kick at the goal resulting from a foul in the penalty
area.
Pencil —n. 1 instrument for writing or drawing, usu. A thin rod of graphite etc.
Enclosed in a wooden cylinder or metal case. 2 (attrib.) Resembling a pencil in
shape (pencil skirt). —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 write, draw, or mark with a pencil. 2 (usu.
Foll. By in) write, note, or arrange provisionally. [latin penicillum paintbrush]
Pendant n. Hanging jewel etc., esp. One attached to a necklace, bracelet, etc.
[french pendre hang]
Pendulous adj. Hanging down; drooping and swinging. [latin pendulus from
pendeo hang]
Pendulum n. (pl. -s) weight suspended so as to swing freely, esp. A rod with a
weighted end regulating a clock. [latin neuter adjective: related to *pendulous]
Penetrate v. (-ting) 1 a find access into or through. B (usu. Foll. By with) imbue
with; permeate. 2 see into, find out, or discern. 3 see through (darkness, fog,
etc.). 4 be absorbed by the mind. 5 (as penetrating adj.) A having or suggesting
sensitivity or insight. B (of a voice etc.) Easily heard through or above other
sounds; piercing. penetrable adj. Penetrability n. Penetration n. Penetrative adj.
[latin]
Penguin n. Flightless black and white sea bird of the southern hemisphere, with
wings developed into flippers for swimming underwater. [origin unknown]
Penitent —adj. Repentant. —n. 1 repentant sinner. 2 person doing penance under
the direction of a confessor. penitence n. Penitently adv. [latin paeniteo repent]
Penny n. (pl. For separate coins -ies, for a sum of money pence) 1 british coin
and monetary unit equal to one-hundredth of a pound. 2 hist. British bronze coin
and monetary unit equal to one-two-hundred-and-fortieth of a pound. in for a
penny, in for a pound exhortation to total commitment to an undertaking.
Pennies from heaven unexpected benefits. The penny drops colloq. One
understands at last. Penny wise and pound foolish mean in small expenditures
but wasteful of large amounts. A pretty penny a large sum of money. Two a
penny easily obtained and so almost worthless. [old english]
Penny black n. First adhesive postage stamp (1840, price one penny).
Penny farthing n. Early type of bicycle with a large front and small rear wheel.
Pennywort n. Wild plant with rounded leaves, growing esp. In marshy places.
Pent adj. (often foll. By in, up) closely confined; shut in (pent-up feelings).
[from *pen2]
Pentagon n. 1 plane figure with five sides and angles. 2 (the pentagon) a
pentagonal washington headquarters of the us forces. B leaders of the us forces.
pentagonal adj. [greek pentagonon: related to *penta-]
Pentameter n. Line of verse with five metrical feet. [greek: see penta-, -meter]
Pentateuch n. First five books of the old testament. [greek teukhos book]
Pentecost n. 1 whit sunday. 2 jewish harvest festival, on the fiftieth day after the
second day of passover. [greek pentekoste fiftieth (day)]
Pentecostal adj. (of a religious group) emphasizing the divine gifts, esp. The
power to heal the sick, and often fundamentalist.
Penthouse n. (esp. Luxurious) flat on the roof or top floor of a tall building.
[latin: related to *append]
Penultimate adj. & n. Last but one. [latin paenultimus from paene almost,
ultimus last]
Peony n. (also paeony) (pl. -ies) plant with large globular red, pink, or white
flowers. [greek paionia]
Pep colloq. —n. Vigour; spirit. —v. (-pp-) (usu. Foll. By up) fill with vigour.
[abbreviation of *pepper]
[abbreviation of *pepper]
Pepper —n. 1 hot aromatic condiment from the dried berries of certain plants. 2
anything pungent. 3 a capsicum plant, grown as a vegetable. B its fruit. —v. 1
sprinkle or treat with or as if with pepper. 2 pelt with missiles. [sanskrit pippali]
Pepper-and-salt adj. With small patches of dark and light colour intermingled.
Peppercorn n. 1 dried pepper berry. 2 (in full peppercorn rent) nominal rent.
Peppermint n. 1 a mint plant grown for its strong-flavoured oil. B this oil. 2
sweet flavoured with peppermint.
Pepperoni n. Beef and pork sausage seasoned with pepper. [italian peperone
chilli]
Per prep. 1 for each (two sweets per child; five miles per hour). 2 by means of;
by; through (per post). 3 (in full as per) in accordance with (as per instructions).
as per usual colloq. As usual. [latin]
Perambulate v. (-ting) 1 walk through, over, or about (streets, the country, etc.).
2 walk from place to place. perambulation n. [latin perambulo: related to
*amble]
Per capita adv. & adj. (also per caput) for each person. [latin, = by heads]
Perceive v. (-ving) 1 apprehend, esp. Through the sight; observe. 2 (usu. Foll. By
that, how, etc.) Apprehend with the mind; understand; see or regard. perceivable
adj. [latin percipio -cept-seize, understand]
Per cent (us percent) —adv. In every hundred. —n. 1 percentage. 2 one part in
every hundred (half a per cent).
Percent (brit. Per cent) —adv. In every hundred. —n. 1 percentage. 2 one part in
every hundred (half a per cent).
Perch1 —n. 1 bar, branch, etc. Used by a bird to rest on. 2 high place for a
person or thing to rest on. 3 hist. Measure of length, esp. For land, of 51/2 yards.
—v. (usu. Foll. By on) settle or rest on or as on a perch etc. [latin pertica pole]
Perch2 n. (pl. Same or -es) edible european spiny-finned freshwater fish. [latin
perca from greek]
Percolate v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By through) a (of liquid etc.) Filter or ooze
gradually. B (of an idea etc.) Permeate gradually. 2 prepare (coffee) in a
percolator. 3 strain (a liquid, powder, etc.) Through a fine mesh etc. percolation
n. [latin colum strainer]
Peregrine n. (in full peregrine falcon) a kind of falcon much used for hawking.
[latin peregrinus foreign]
Perennial —adj. 1 lasting through a year or several years. 2 (of a plant) lasting
several years. 3 lasting a long time or for ever. —n. Perennial plant. perennially
adv. [latin perennis from annus year]
adv. [latin perennis from annus year]
Perestroika n. (in the former ussr) reform of the economic and political system.
[russian, = restructuring]
Perfidy n. Breach of faith; treachery. perfidious adj. [latin perfidia from fides
faith]
Perforate v. (-ting) 1 make a hole or holes through; pierce. 2 make a row of small
holes in (paper etc.) So that a part may be torn off easily. perforation n. [latin
perforo pierce through]
Perform v. 1 (also absol.) Carry into effect; do. 2 execute (a function, play, piece
of music, etc.). 3 act in a play; play music, sing, etc.; execute tricks. 4 function.
performer n. [anglo-french: related to per-, furnish]
Perfume —n. 1 sweet smell. 2 fluid containing the essence of flowers etc.; scent.
—v. (-ming) impart a sweet scent to. [italian parfumare smoke through]
Pergola n. Arbour or covered walk formed of growing plants trained over trellis-
work. [italian]
Pericardium n. (pl. -dia) membranous sac enclosing the heart. [greek kardia
heart]
Perigee n. Point of a planet’s or comet’s orbit where it is nearest the earth. [greek
perigeion]
Perihelion n. (pl. -lia) point of a planet’s or comet’s orbit where it is nearest the
sun’s centre. [related to *peri-, greek helios sun]
Peril n. Serious and immediate danger. perilous adj. Perilously adv. [latin
peric(u)lum]
Perineum n. (pl. -nea) region of the body between the anus and the scrotum or
vulva. perineal adj. [latin from greek]
Period —n. 1 length or portion of time. 2 distinct portion of history, a person’s
life, etc. 3 time forming part of a geological era. 4 interval between recurrences
of an astronomical or other phenomenon. 5 time allowed for a lesson in school. 6
occurrence of menstruation (often attrib.: period pains). 7 complete sentence,
esp. One consisting of several clauses. 8 esp. Us a = *full stop 1. B colloq. Used
at the end of a statement to indicate finality (i’m not going, period). —adj.
Characteristic of some past period (period furniture). [greek hodos way]
Peripatetic —adj. 1 (of a teacher) working in more than one school or college
etc. 2 going from place to place; itinerant. —n. Peripatetic person, esp. A
teacher. [greek pateo walk]
Peripheral nervous system n. Nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord.
Perish v. 1 be destroyed; suffer death or ruin. 2 a (esp. Of rubber) lose its normal
qualities; deteriorate, rot. B cause to rot or deteriorate. 3 (in passive) suffer from
cold. [latin pereo]
Perishable —adj. Liable to perish; subject to decay. —n. Thing, esp. A foodstuff,
subject to rapid decay.
Peritoneum n. (pl. -s or -nea) membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen.
peritoneal adj. [greek peritonos stretched around]
Periwinkle1 n. Evergreen trailing plant with blue, purple, or white flowers. [latin
pervinca]
Perjure v.refl. (-ring) law 1 wilfully tell a lie when on oath. 2 (as perjured adj.)
Guilty of or involving perjury. perjurer n. [french from latin juro swear]
Perjury n. (pl. -ies) law act of wilfully telling a lie when on oath.
Perlite n. (also pearlite) glassy type of vermiculite used for insulation etc. [french
perle pearl]
Perm1 —n. Permanent wave. —v. Give a permanent wave to. [abbreviation]
Permafrost n. Subsoil which remains frozen all year, as in polar regions. [from
*permanent, *frost]
Permian —adj. Of the last period of the palaeozoic era. —n. This period. [perm
Permian —adj. Of the last period of the palaeozoic era. —n. This period. [perm
in russia]
Permit —v. (-tt-) 1 give permission or consent to; authorize. 2 a allow; give an
opportunity to. B give an opportunity (circumstances permitting). 3 (foll. By of)
admit. —n. 1 a document giving permission to act. B document etc. Which
allows entry. 2 formal permission. [latin permitto -miss-allow]
Perpendicular —adj. 1 a (usu. Foll. By to) at right angles (to a given line, plane,
or surface). B at right angles to the plane of the horizon. 2 upright, vertical. 3 (of
a slope etc.) Very steep. 4 (perpendicular) archit. Of the third stage of english
gothic (15th–16th c.) With vertical tracery in large windows. —n. 1
perpendicular line. 2 (prec. By the) perpendicular line or direction (is out of the
perpendicular). perpendicularity n. [latin perpendiculum plumb-line]
Per pro. Abbr. Through the agency of (used in signatures). [latin per
procurationem]
Perry n. (pl. -ies) drink made from fermented pear juice. [french peré: related to
*pear]
Usage the preferred terms for the language (see sense 2 of the noun) are iranian
and farsi respectively.
Persian lamb n. Silky tightly curled fur of a young karakul, used in clothing.
Personal adj. 1 one’s own; individual; private. 2 done or made in person (my
personal attention). 3 directed to or concerning an individual (personal letter). 4
referring (esp. In a hostile way) to an individual’s private life or concerns
(personal remarks; no need to be personal). 5 of the body and clothing (personal
hygiene). 6 existing as a person (a personal god). 7 gram. Of or denoting one of
the three persons (personal pronoun).
Personalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make personal, esp. By marking with
one’s name etc. 2 personify.
Personally adv. 1 in person (see to it personally). 2 for one’s own part (speaking
personally). 3 in a personal manner (took the criticism personally).
Personal pronoun n. Pronoun replacing the subject, object, etc., of a clause etc.,
e.g. I, we, you, them, us.
Personal property n. Law all one’s property except land and those interests in
land that pass to one’s heirs.
Personal stereo n. Small portable cassette player, often with radio or cd player,
used with lightweight headphones.
Pert adj. 1 saucy, impudent. 2 jaunty. pertly adv. Pertness n. [latin apertus open]
Pervert —v. 1 turn (a person or thing) aside from its proper use or nature. 2
misapply (words etc.). 3 lead astray from right conduct or (esp. Religious)
beliefs; corrupt. 4 (as perverted adj.) Showing perversion. —n. Perverted person,
esp. Sexually. [latin verto vers-turn]
Pesky adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Us colloq. Troublesome; annoying. [origin unknown]
Peso n. (pl. -s) chief monetary unit of several latin american countries and of the
philippines. [spanish]
Pessary n. (pl. -ies) 1 device worn in the vagina to support the uterus or as a
contraceptive. 2 vaginal suppository. [latin from greek]
Pestilence n. Fatal epidemic disease, esp. Bubonic plague. [latin pestis plague]
Pet2 n. Fit of ill-humour. [origin unknown]
Petal n. Each of the parts of the corolla of a flower. petalled adj. [greek petalon
leaf]
Petard n. Hist. Small bomb used to blast down a door etc. [french]
Petit bourgeois n. (pl. Petits bourgeois pronunc. Same) member of the lower
middle classes. [french]
Petite adj. (of a woman) of small and dainty build. [french, = little]
Petite adj. (of a woman) of small and dainty build. [french, = little]
Petit four n. (pl. Petits fours) very small fancy cake. [french, = small oven]
Petition —n. 1 supplication, request. 2 formal written request, esp. One signed
by many people, appealing to an authority. 3 law application to a court for a writ
etc. —v. 1 make or address a petition to. 2 (often foll. By for, to) appeal
earnestly or humbly. [latin peto petit-ask]
Petit point n. Embroidery on canvas using small stitches. [french, = little point]
Petrel n. Sea bird, usu. Flying far from land. [origin unknown]
Petri dish n. Shallow covered dish used for the culture of bacteria etc. [petri,
name of a bacteriologist]
Petrify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 paralyse with fear, astonishment, etc. 2 change (organic
matter) into a stony substance. 3 become like stone. petrifaction n. [latin petra
rock, from greek]
Petrodollar n. Notional unit of currency earned by a petroleum-exporting
country.
Petroleum n. Hydrocarbon oil found in the upper strata of the earth, refined for
use as fuel etc. [latin petra rock, oleum oil]
Petunia n. Cultivated plant with white, purple, red, etc., funnel-shaped flowers.
[french petun tobacco]
Pew n. 1 (in a church) long bench with a back; enclosed compartment. 2 colloq.
Seat (esp. Take a pew). [latin *podium]
Pewter n. 1 grey alloy of tin, antimony, and copper. 2 utensils made of this.
[french peutre]
Pharaoh n. 1 ruler of ancient egypt. 2 title of this ruler. [old english from church
latin pharao, ultimately from egyptian]
Pharynx n. (pl. Pharynges or -xes) cavity behind the nose and mouth. pharyngeal
adj. Pharyngitis n. [latin from greek]
adj. Pharyngitis n. [latin from greek]
Usage the plural form of this word, phenomena, is often used mistakenly for the
singular. This should be avoided.
Phial n. Small glass bottle, esp. For liquid medicine. [greek phiate broad flat
dish]
Phil-var. Of *philo-.
Philadelphus n. Flowering shrub, esp. The mock orange. [latin from greek]
Philander v. Flirt or have casual affairs with women. philanderer n. [greek aner
andr-male person]
-phile comb. Form (also -phil) forming nouns and adjectives denoting fondness
for what is specified (bibliophile). [greek philos loving]
Philharmonic adj. Fond of music (usu. In the names of orchestras etc.). [italian:
related to *harmonic]
Philosophy n. (pl. -ies) 1 use of reason and argument in seeking truth and
knowledge of reality, esp. Knowledge of the causes and nature of things and of
the principles governing existence. 2 a particular system or set of beliefs reached
by this. B personal rule of life. [greek: related to *philo-, sophia wisdom]
Phlox n. (pl. Same or -es) plant with scented clusters of esp. White, blue, or red
flowers. [greek phlox, name of a plant (literally ‘flame’)]
-phobe comb. Form forming nouns denoting a person with a specified fear or
aversion (xenophobe). [greek phobos fear]
Phobia n. Abnormal or morbid fear or aversion. phobic adj. & n. [from *-phobia]
Phoenix n. Mythical bird, the only one of its kind, that burnt itself on a pyre and
rose from the ashes to live again. [greek phoinix]
Phonetics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) 1 vocal sounds. 2 the study of these.
phonetician n.
Phoney (also phony) colloq. —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 sham; counterfeit. 2 fictitious.
—n. (pl. -eys or -ies) phoney person or thing. phoniness n. [origin unknown]
Phono-comb. Form sound. [greek phone voice, sound]
Photocopy —n. (pl. -ies) photographic copy of printed or written material. —v.
(-ies, -ied) make a photocopy of.
Photostat —n. Propr. 1 type of photocopier. 2 copy made by it. —v. (photostat)
(-tt-) make a photostat of.
Phrase —n. 1 group of words forming a conceptual unit, but not a sentence. 2
idiomatic or short pithy expression. 3 mode of expression. 4 mus. Group of notes
forming a distinct unit within a melody. —v. (-sing) 1 express in words. 2 mus.
Divide (music) into phrases, esp. In performance. phrasal adj. [greek phrasis
from phrazo tell]
Phrase book n. Book for travellers, listing useful expressions with their foreign
equivalents.
Phrenology n. Hist. The study of the shape and size of the cranium as a supposed
indication of character and mental faculties. phrenological adj. Phrenologist n.
[greek phren mind]
Phylactery n. (pl. -ies) small leather box containing hebrew texts, worn by
jewish men at prayer. [greek phulasso guard]
Physics n.pl. (treated as sing.) Branch of science dealing with the properties and
interactions of matter and energy. [latin physica (pl.) From greek: related to
*physic]
Pi n. 1 sixteenth letter of the greek alphabet (p, p). 2 (as p) the symbol of the
Pi n. 1 sixteenth letter of the greek alphabet (p, p). 2 (as p) the symbol of the
ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter (approx. 3.14). [greek]
Pia mater n. Delicate innermost membrane enveloping the brain and spinal cord.
[latin, = tender mother]
Pianissimo mus. —adj. Very soft. —adv. Very softly. —n. (pl. -s or -mi) very
soft playing or passage. [italian, superlative of *piano2]
Pianist n. Piano-player.
Piano1 n. (pl. -s) keyboard instrument with metal strings struck by hammers.
[italian, abbreviation of *pianoforte]
Piano2 mus. —adj. Soft. —adv. Softly. —n. (pl. -s or -ni) soft playing or
passage. [latin planus flat, (of sound) soft]
Pianoforte n. Formal or archaic = *piano1. [italian, earlier piano e forte soft and
loud]
Pica n. 1 unit of type-size (1/6 inch). 2 size of letters in typewriting (10 per
inch). [latin: related to *pie2]
Picaresque adj. (of a style of fiction) dealing with the episodic adventures of
rogues etc. [spanish pícaro rogue]
Piccalilli n. (pl. -s) pickle of chopped vegetables, mustard, and hot spices. [origin
unknown]
Piccaninny n. (us pickaninny) (pl. -ies) often offens. Small black or australian
aboriginal child. [west indian negro from spanish pequeño or portuguese
pequeno little]
Piccolo n. (pl. -s) small flute sounding an octave higher than the ordinary one.
Piccolo n. (pl. -s) small flute sounding an octave higher than the ordinary one.
[italian, = small]
Pick1 —v. 1 (also absol.) Choose carefully. 2 detach or pluck (a flower, fruit,
etc.) From a stem, tree, etc. 3 a probe with the finger, an instrument, etc. To
remove unwanted matter. B clear (a bone, carcass, etc.) Of scraps of meat etc. 4
(also absol.) (of a person) eat (food, a meal, etc.) In small bits. —n. 1 act of
picking. 2 a selection, choice. B right to select (had first pick of the prizes). 3
(usu. Foll. By of) best (the pick of the bunch). pick and choose select
fastidiously. Pick at 1 eat (food) without interest. 2 find fault with. Pick a
person’s brains extract ideas, information, etc., from a person for one’s own use.
Pick holes in find fault with (an idea etc.). Pick a lock open a lock with an
instrument other than the proper key, esp. With criminal intent. Pick off 1 pluck
(leaves etc.) Off. 2 shoot (people etc.) One by one without haste. Pick on 1 find
fault with; nag at. 2 select. Pick out 1 take from a larger number. 2 distinguish
from surrounding objects; identify. 3 play (a tune) by ear on the piano etc. 4
(often foll. By in, with) accentuate (decoration, a painting, etc.) With a
contrasting colour. Pick over select the best from. Pick a person’s pockets steal
from a person’s pockets. Pick a quarrel start an argument deliberately. Pick to
pieces = take to pieces (see *piece). Pick up 1 grasp and raise. 2 a acquire by
chance or without effort. B learn effortlessly. 3 stop for and take along with one.
4 become acquainted with (a person) casually, esp for sexual purposes. 5 (of
one’s health, the weather, share prices, etc.) Recover, improve, etc. 6 (of an
engine etc.) Recover speed. 7 (of the police etc.) Arrest. 8 detect by scrutiny or
with a telescope, radio, etc. 9 accept the responsibility of paying (a bill etc.). 10
resume, take up anew (picked up where we left off). picker n. [from *pike]
Pick2 n. 1 long-handled tool with a usu. Curved iron bar pointed at one or both
ends, used for breaking up hard ground etc. 2 colloq. Plectrum. 3 any instrument
for picking. [from *pike]
Pickaninny n. (brit. Piccaninny) (pl. -ies) often offens. Small black or australian
aboriginal child. [west indian negro from spanish pequeño or portuguese
pequeno little]
Picket —n. 1 one or more persons stationed outside a place of work to persuade
others not to enter during a strike etc. 2 pointed stake driven into the ground. 3 a
small body of troops sent out to watch for the enemy. B group of sentries. —v. (-
t-) 1 a station or act as a picket. B beset or guard with a picket or pickets. 2
secure (a place) with stakes. 3 tether (an animal).
Pickle —n. 1 a (often in pl.) Food, esp. Vegetables, preserved in brine, vinegar,
mustard, etc. B the liquid used for this. 2 colloq. Plight (in a pickle). —v. (-ling)
1 preserve in or treat with pickle. 2 (as pickled adj.) Slang drunk. [low german or
dutch pekel]
Pick-me-up n. 1 tonic for the nerves etc. 2 a good experience that cheers.
Pick-up n. 1 slang person met casually, esp. For sexual purposes. 2 small open
motor truck. 3 part of a record-player carrying the stylus. 4 device on an electric
guitar etc. That converts string vibrations into electrical signals. 5 act of picking
up.
Pick-your-own adj. (usu. Attrib.) (of fruit and vegetables) dug or picked by the
customer at the farm etc.
Picnic —n. 1 outing including an outdoor meal. 2 meal eaten out of doors. 3
(usu. With neg.) Colloq. Something agreeable or easily accomplished etc. —v. (-
ck-) take part in a picnic. [french pique-nique]
Picturesque adj. 1 beautiful or striking to look at. 2 (of language etc.) Strikingly
graphic. [italian pittoresco, assimilated to *picture]
Piddle v. (-ling) 1 colloq. Urinate. 2 (as piddling adj.) Colloq. Trivial; trifling. 3
(foll. By about, around) work or act in a trifling way. [origin unknown]
Pidgin english n. Pidgin in which the chief language is english, used orig.
Between chinese and europeans.
Pie1 n. 1 baked dish of meat, fish, fruit, etc., usu. With a top and base of pastry.
2 thing resembling a pie (mud pie). easy as pie very easy. [origin uncertain]
Piebald —adj. (esp. Of a horse) having irregular patches of two colours, esp.
Black and white. —n. Piebald animal. [from pie2, bald]
Piece —n. 1 a (often foll. By of) distinct portion forming part of or broken off
from a larger object. B each of the parts of which a set or category is composed
(five-piece band). 2 coin. 3 (usu. Short) literary or musical composition; picture;
play.
Pied-à-terre n. (pl. Pieds-à-terre pronunc. Same) (usu. Small) flat, house, etc.
Kept for occasional use. [french, literally ‘foot to earth’]
Pier n. 1 a structure built out into the sea, a lake, etc., as a promenade and
landing-stage. B breakwater. 2 a support of an arch or of the span of a bridge;
pillar. B solid masonry between windows etc. [latin pera]
Pierce v. (-cing) 1 a (of a sharp instrument etc.) Penetrate. B (often foll. By with)
make a hole in or through with a sharp-pointed instrument. C make (a hole etc.).
2 (as piercing adj.) (of a glance, sound, light, pain, cold, etc.) Keen, sharp, or
unpleasantly penetrating. 3 (often foll. By through, into) force a way through or
into, penetrate. [french percer from latin pertundo bore through]
Pietà n. Representation of the virgin mary holding the dead body of christ on her
lap. [italian, = *piety]
Piety n. (pl. -ies) 1 quality of being pious. 2 pious act. [latin: related to *pious]
Piffle colloq. —n. Nonsense; empty speech. —v. (-ling) talk or act feebly; trifle.
[imitative]
Pigeon-hole —n. Each of a set of compartments on a wall etc. For papers, letters,
etc. —v. 1 assign to a preconceived category. 2 deposit in a pigeon-hole. 3 put
aside for future consideration.
Piggy —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Little pig. —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like a pig. 2 (of
features etc.) Like those of a pig.
Piggyback (also pickaback) —n. Ride on the back and shoulders of another
person. —adv. On the back and shoulders of another person. [origin unknown]
Pigsty n. (pl. -ies) 1 pen for pigs. 2 filthy house, room, etc.
Pike n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 large voracious freshwater fish with a long narrow
snout. 2 hist. Weapon with a pointed metal head on a long wooden shaft. [old
english]
Pilau n. (also pilaff, pilaf) middle eastern or indian dish of rice boiled with meat,
vegetables, spices, etc. [turkish]
Pile1 —n. 1 heap of things laid upon one another. 2 large imposing building. 3
colloq. A large quantity. B large amount of money. 4 a series of plates of
dissimilar metals laid one on another alternately to produce an electric current. B
= *nuclear reactor. 5 funeral pyre. —v. (-ling) 1 a (often foll. By up, on) heap
up. B (foll. By with) load. 2 (usu. Foll. By in, into, on, out of, etc.) Crowd
hurriedly or tightly. pile it on colloq. Exaggerate. Pile up 1 accumulate; heap up.
2 colloq. Cause (a vehicle etc.) To crash. [latin pila]
Pile2 n. 1 heavy beam driven vertically into the ground to support a bridge, the
foundations of a house, etc. 2 pointed stake or post. [latin pilum javelin]
Pile3 n. Soft projecting surface on a carpet, velvet, etc. [latin pilus hair]
Pilfer v. (also absol.) Steal (objects), esp. In small quantities. [french pelfre]
Pilgrim fathers n.pl. English puritans who founded the colony of plymouth,
massachusetts, in 1620.
Pill n. 1 a ball or flat disc of solid medicine for swallowing whole. B (usu. Prec.
By the) colloq. Contraceptive pill. 2 unpleasant or painful necessity. [latin pila
ball]
Pillage —v. (-ging) (also absol.) Plunder, sack. —n. Pillaging, esp. In war.
[french piller plunder]
Pillbox n. 1 shallow cylindrical box for holding pills. 2 hat of a similar shape. 3
mil. Small partly underground enclosed concrete fort.
mil. Small partly underground enclosed concrete fort.
Pillion n. Seating for a passenger behind a motor cyclist. ride pillion travel
seated behind a motor cyclist. [gaelic pillean small cushion]
Pillory —n. (pl. -ies) hist. Wooden framework with holes for the head and
hands, holding a person and allowing him or her to be publicly ridiculed. —v. (-
ies, -ied) 1 expose to ridicule. 2 hist. Put in the pillory. [french]
Pillow —n. 1 soft support for the head, esp. In bed. 2 pillow-shaped block or
support. —v. Rest on or as if on a pillow. [latin pulvinus cushion]
Pilot —n. 1 person who operates the controls of an aircraft. 2 person qualified to
take charge of a ship entering or leaving harbour. 3 (usu. Attrib.) Experimental
undertaking or test (pilot scheme). 4 guide. —v. (-t-) 1 act as a pilot of. 2
conduct or initiate as a pilot. [greek pedon]
Pilot-light n. 1 small gas burner kept alight to light another. 2 electric indicator
light or control light.
Pimento n. (pl. -s) 1 tree native to jamaica. 2 berries of this, usu. Crushed for
culinary use; allspice. 3 = pimiento. [latin: related to pigment]
Pimp —n. Man who lives off the earnings of a prostitute or a brothel. —v. Act
as a pimp. [origin unknown]
Pin abbr. Personal identification number (for use with a cashcard etc.).
Pin —n. 1 small thin pointed piece of metal with a round or flattened head used
(esp. In sewing) for holding things in place, attaching one thing to another, etc. 2
peg of wood or metal for various purposes. 3 (in idioms) something of small
value (not worth a pin). 4 (in pl.) Colloq. Legs. —v. (-nn-) 1 a (often foll. By to,
up, together) fasten with a pin or pins. B transfix with a pin, lance, etc. 2 (usu.
Foll. By on) put (blame, responsibility, etc.) On (a person etc.). 3 (often foll. By
against, on, etc.) Seize and hold fast. pin down 1 (often foll. By to) bind (a
person etc.) To a promise, arrangement, etc. 2 force (a person) to declare his or
her intentions. 3 restrict the actions of (an enemy etc.). 4 specify (a thing)
precisely. Pin one’s faith (or hopes etc.) On rely implicitly on. [latin pinna point
etc.]
Pinafore n. 1 apron, esp. With a bib. 2 (in full pinafore dress) collarless
sleeveless dress worn over a blouse or jumper. [from *pin, *afore]
Pinball n. Game in which small metal balls are shot across a board to strike pins.
Pincers n.pl. 1 (also pair of pincers) gripping-tool resembling scissors but with
blunt jaws. 2 front claws of lobsters and some other crustaceans. [related to
*pinch]
Pinch —v. 1 a squeeze tightly, esp. Between finger and thumb. B (often absol.)
(of a shoe etc.) Constrict painfully. 2 (of cold, hunger, etc.) Affect painfully. 3
slang a steal. B arrest. 4 (as pinched adj.) (of the features) drawn. 5 a (usu. Foll.
By in, of, for, etc.) Stint. B be niggardly. 6 (usu. Foll. By out, back, down)
remove (leaves, buds, etc.) To encourage bushy growth. —n. 1 act of pinching. 2
amount that can be taken up with fingers and thumb (pinch of snuff). 3 the stress
caused by poverty etc. at (or in) a pinch in an emergency. [french pincer]
Pinchbeck —n. Goldlike alloy of copper and zinc used in cheap jewellery etc. —
adj. Counterfeit, sham. [pinchbeck, name of a watchmaker]
Pine2 v. (-ning) 1 (often foll. By away) decline or waste away from grief etc. 2
long eagerly. [old english]
Pineal adj. Shaped like a pine cone. [latin pinea: related to *pine1]
Pineal body n. (also pineal gland) conical gland in the brain, secreting a
hormone-like substance.
Pineapple n. 1 large juicy tropical fruit with yellow flesh and tough segmented
skin. 2 plant bearing this. [from *pine1, *apple]
Ping —n. Single short high ringing sound. —v. (cause to) make a ping.
[imitative]
Pinhead n. 1 head of a pin. 2 very small thing or spot. 3 colloq. Stupid person.
Pinion1 —n. 1 outer part of a bird’s wing. 2 poet. Wing; flight-feather. —v. 1
cut off the pinion of (a wing or bird) to prevent flight. 2 a bind the arms of (a
person). B (often foll. By to) bind (the arms, a person, etc.) Fast to a thing. [latin
pinna]
Pink1 —n. 1 pale red colour. 2 cultivated plant with fragrant flowers. 3 (prec. By
the) the most perfect condition, the peak (the pink of health). 4 person with
socialist tendencies. —adj. 1 of a pale red colour. 2 tending to socialism. in the
pink colloq. In very good health. pinkish adj. Pinkness n. Pinky adj. [origin
unknown]
Pink2 v. 1 pierce slightly. 2 cut a scalloped or zigzag edge on. [perhaps from low
german or dutch]
Pinking shears n.pl. Dressmaker’s serrated shears for cutting a zigzag edge.
Pin-money n. 1 hist. Allowance to a woman from her husband. 2 very small sum
of money.
Pinnate adj. (of a compound leaf) having leaflets on either side of the leaf-stalk.
[latin pinnatus feathered: related to *pinnacle]
Pinpoint —n. 1 point of a pin. 2 something very small or sharp. 3 (attrib.)
Precise, accurate. —v. Locate with precision.
Pins and needles n.pl. Tingling sensation in a limb recovering from numbness.
Pinstripe n. 1 (often attrib.) Narrow stripe in cloth (pinstripe suit). 2 (in sing. Or
pl.) Pinstripe suit (came wearing his pinstripes). pinstriped adj.
Pint n. 1 measure of capacity for liquids etc., 1/8 gal. (0.57, us 0.47, litre). 2 a
colloq. Pint of beer. B pint of a liquid, esp. Milk. 3 measure of shellfish
containable in a pint mug. [french]
Pintle n. Pin or bolt, esp. One on which some other part turns. [old english]
Pion n. (also pi meson) subatomic particle having a mass many times greater
than that of an electron. [from *pi]
Pip1 —n. Seed of an apple, pear, orange, grape, etc. —v. (-pp-) remove the pips
from (fruit etc.). pipless adj. [abbreviation of *pippin]
Pip3 v. (-pp-) colloq. 1 hit with a shot. 2 (also pip at the post) defeat narrowly or
at the last moment. [origin unknown]
Pip5 n. 1 disease of poultry etc. 2 colloq. Fit of disgust or bad temper (esp. Give
one the pip). [low german or dutch]
Pipe —n. 1 tube of metal, plastic, etc., used to convey water, gas, etc. 2 a narrow
tube with a bowl at one end containing tobacco for smoking. B quantity of
tobacco held by this. 3 a wind instrument of a single tube. B any of the tubes by
which sound is produced in an organ. C (in pl.) = *bagpipes. 4 tubular organ,
vessel, etc. In an animal’s body. 5 high note or song, esp. Of a bird. 6 a
boatswain’s whistle. B sounding of this. 7 cask for wine, esp. As a measure, usu.
= 105 gal. (about 477 litres). —v. (-ping) 1 a convey (oil, water, gas, etc.) By
pipes. B provide with pipes. 2 play (a tune etc.) On a pipe or pipes. 3 (esp. As
piped adj.) Transmit (recorded music etc.) By wire or cable. 4 (usu. Foll. By up,
on, to, etc.) Naut. A summon (a crew). B signal the arrival of (an officer etc.) On
board. 5 utter in a shrill voice. 6 decorate or trim with piping. 7 lead or bring (a
person etc.) By the sound of a pipe or pipes. pipe down colloq. Be quiet or less
insistent. Pipe up begin to play, sing, speak, etc. pipeful n. (pl. -s). [latin pipo
chirp]
Pipeclay n. Fine white clay used for tobacco-pipes, whitening leather, etc.
Pipeline n. 1 long, usu. Underground, pipe for conveying esp. Oil. 2 channel
supplying goods, information, etc. in the pipeline being dealt with or prepared;
under discussion, on the way.
Pippin n. 1 apple grown from seed. 2 red and yellow eating apple. [french]
Pique —v. (piques, piqued, piquing) 1 wound the pride of, irritate. 2 arouse
(curiosity, interest, etc.). —n. Resentment; hurt pride. [french: related to
*piquant]
Piracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 robbery of ships at sea. 2 similar practice, esp. Hijacking. 3
infringement of copyright etc. [related to *pirate]
Pirate —n. 1 a seafaring robber attacking ships. B ship used by pirates. 2 (often
attrib.) Person who infringes another’s copyright or business rights or who
broadcasts without official authorization (pirate radio station). —v. (-ting)
reproduce (a book etc.) Or trade (goods) without permission. piratical adj. [latin
pirata from greek]
Pirouette —n. Dancer’s spin on one foot or the point of the toe. —v. (-tting)
perform a pirouette. [french, = spinning-top]
Pisces n. (pl. Same) 1 constellation and twelfth sign of the zodiac (the fish or
fishes). 2 person born when the sun is in this sign. [latin, pl. Of piscis fish]
Piscina n. (pl. -nae or -s) 1 stone basin near the altar in a church for draining
water used in rinsing the chalice etc. 2 fish-pond. [latin, from piscis fish]
Piss coarse slang —v. 1 urinate. 2 discharge (blood etc.) With urine. 3 (as pissed
adj.) Drunk. —n. 1 urine. 2 act of urinating. piss about fool or mess about. Piss
down rain heavily. Piss off 1 go away. 2 (often as pissed off adj.) Annoy;
depress. Piss on (a person or thing) show utter contempt for. Take the piss (often
foll. By out of) mock; make fun of. [french, imitative]
Pistachio n. (pl. -s) 1 edible pale-green nut. 2 tree yielding this. [persian pistah]
Pistil n. Female organs of a flower, comprising the stigma, style, and ovary.
pistillate adj. [latin: related to *pestle]
Piston-ring n. Ring on a piston sealing the gap between piston and cylinder wall.
Pit1 —n. 1 a deep hole in the ground, usu. Large. B coalmine. C covered hole as
a trap for animals. 2 hollow on a surface, esp. An indentation of the skin. 3 a =
orchestra pit (see *orchestra 2). B usu. Hist. Seating at the back of the stalls. 4
(the pits) slang worst imaginable place, situation, person, etc. 5 a area at the side
of a track where racing cars are serviced and refuelled. B sunken area in a
workshop floor for access to a car’s underside. —v. (-tt-) 1 (usu. Foll. By
against) set (one’s wits, strength, etc.) In competition. 2 (usu. As pitted adj.)
Make pits, scars, craters, etc. In. 3 put into a pit. [old english from latin puteus
well]
Pit2 v. (-tt-) (usu. As pitted adj.) Remove stones from (fruit). [origin uncertain]
Pit-a-pat (also pitter-patter) —adv. 1 with a sound like quick light steps. 2
falteringly (heart went pit-a-pat). —n. Such a sound. [imitative]
Pitch1 —v. 1 erect and fix (a tent, camp, etc.). 2 throw. 3 fix in a definite
position. 4 express in a particular style or at a particular level. 5 (often foll. By
against, into, etc.) Fall heavily, esp. Headlong. 6 (of a ship etc.) Plunge
backwards and forwards in a lengthwise direction. 7 mus. Set at a particular
pitch. 8 cricket a cause (a bowled ball) to strike the ground at a specified point
etc. B (of a ball) strike the ground thus. —n. 1 area of play in a field-game. 2
height, degree, intensity, etc. (excitement had reached such a pitch). 3 degree of
slope, esp. Of a roof. 4 mus. Quality of a sound governed by the rate of
vibrations producing it; highness or lowness of a note. 5 act of throwing. 6
pitching motion of a ship etc. 7 colloq.
Pitch2 —n. Dark resinous substance from the distillation of tar or turpentine,
used for making ships watertight etc. —v. Coat with pitch. pitchy adj. (-ier, -
iest). [latin pix pic-]
Pitchfork —n. Long-handled two-pronged fork for pitching hay etc. —v. 1 throw
with or as if with a pitchfork. 2 (usu. Foll. By into) thrust (a person) forcibly into
a position, office, etc.
Pith n. 1 spongy white tissue lining the rind of an orange etc. 2 essential part. 3
spongy tissue in the stems and branches of plants. 4 strength; vigour; energy.
[old english]
Pithy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of style, speech, etc.) Terse and forcible. 2 of or like
pith. pithily adv. Pithiness n.
pith. pithily adv. Pithiness n.
Piton n. Peg driven into rock or a crack to support a climber or rope. [french]
Pitta n. (also pita) flat hollow unleavened bread which can be split and filled.
[modern greek, = a kind of cake]
Pituitary n. (pl. -ies) (also pituitary gland) small ductless gland at the base of the
brain. [latin pituita phlegm]
Pity —n. 1 sorrow and compassion for another’s suffering. 2 cause for regret
(what a pity!). —v. (-ies, -ied) feel (often contemptuous) pity for. take pity on
help out of pity for. pitying adj. Pityingly adv. [latin: related to *piety]
Pizzicato mus. —adv. Plucking. —adj. (of a note, passage, etc.) Performed
pizzicato. —n. (pl. -s or -ti) note, passage, etc. Played pizzicato. [italian]
Placable adj. Easily placated; mild; forgiving. placability n. [latin placo appease]
Placard —n. Large notice for public display. —v. Set up placards on (a wall
etc.). [french from dutch placken glue (v.)]
Place-kick n. Kick in football with the ball placed on the ground.
Placenta n. (pl. -tae or -s) organ in the uterus of pregnant mammals nourishing
the foetus through the umbilical cord and expelled after birth. placental adj.
[greek, = flat cake]
Placid adj. 1 calm; not easily excited or irritated. 2 tranquil, serene. placidity n.
Placidly adv. Placidness n. [latin placeo please]
Plagiarize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (also absol.) Take and pass off
(another’s thoughts, writings, etc.) As one’s own. 2 pass off the thoughts etc. Of
(another person) as one’s own. plagiarism n. Plagiarist n. Plagiarizer n. [latin
plagiarius kidnapper]
Plague —n. 1 deadly contagious disease. 2 (foll. By of) colloq. Infestation of a
pest etc. 3 great trouble or affliction. 4 colloq. Nuisance. —v. (plagues, plagued,
plaguing) 1 colloq. Pester, annoy. 2 afflict, hinder (plagued by back pain). 3
affect with plague. [latin plaga stroke, infection]
Plaid n. 1 (often attrib.) Chequered or tartan, esp. Woollen, twilled cloth (plaid
skirt). 2 long piece of this worn over the shoulder in highland scottish costume.
[gaelic]
Plainchant n. = *plainsong.
Plaintiff n. Person who brings a case against another into court. [french plaintif:
related to *plaintive]
Plait —n. Length of hair, straw, etc., in three or more interlaced strands. —v. 1
weave (hair etc.) Into a plait. 2 make by interlacing strands (plaited belt). [french
pleit from latin plico fold]
Planchette n. Small board on castors with a pencil, said to write spirit messages
when a person’s fingers rest lightly on it. [french diminutive: related to *plank]
Plane1 —n. 1 flat surface such that a straight line joining any two points on it
lies wholly in it. 2 level surface. 3 colloq. = *aeroplane. 4 flat surface producing
lift by the action of air or water over and under it (usu. In comb.: hydroplane). 5
(often foll. By of) level of attainment, knowledge, etc. —adj. 1 (of a surface etc.)
Perfectly level. 2 (of an angle, figure, etc.) Lying in a plane. —v. (-ning) glide.
[latin planus *plain]
Plane2 —n. Tool for smoothing a usu. Wooden surface by paring shavings from
it. —v. (-ning) 1 smooth with a plane. 2 (often foll. By away, down) pare with a
plane. [latin: related to *plane1]
Plane3 n. Tall tree with maple-like leaves and bark which peels in uneven
patches. [greek platanos]
Planet n. Celestial body orbiting round a star. planetary adj. [greek, = wanderer]
Plangent adj. Literary 1 loud and reverberating. 2 plaintive. [latin: related to
*plaint]
Plank —n. 1 long flat piece of timber. 2 item in a political or other programme.
—v. 1 provide or cover with planks. 2 (usu. Foll. By down) colloq. A put down
or deposit roughly or violently. B pay (money) on the spot. walk the plank hist.
Be made to walk blindfold along a plank over the side of a ship to one’s death in
the sea. [latin planca]
Planner n. 1 person who plans new towns etc. 2 person who makes plans. 3 list,
table, etc., with information helpful in planning.
Planning permission n. Formal permission for building etc., esp. From a local
authority.
Plantain1 n. Plant with broad flat leaves spread close to the ground and seeds
used as food for birds. [latin plantago]
Plantain2 n. 1 a kind of banana plant, grown for its fruit. 2 banana-like fruit of
this. [spanish]
Plaster —n. 1 soft mixture of lime, sand, and water etc. Applied to walls,
ceilings, etc., to dry into a smooth hard surface. 2 = *sticking-plaster. 3 =
*plaster of paris. —v. 1 cover (a wall etc.) With plaster. 2 coat, daub, cover
thickly. 3 stick or apply (a thing) thickly like plaster. 4 (often foll. By down)
smooth (esp. Hair) with water etc. 5 (as plastered adj.) Slang drunk. plasterer n.
[greek emplastron]
Plasterboard n. Two boards with a filling of plaster for partitions, walls, etc.
Plaster cast n. 1 bandage stiffened with plaster of paris and applied to a broken
limb etc. 2 statue or mould made of plaster.
Plaster of paris n. Fine white gypsum plaster for plaster casts etc.
Plastic —n. 1 synthetic resinous substance that can be given any shape. 2 (in full
plastic money) colloq. Credit card(s). —adj. 1 made of plastic. 2 capable of
being moulded; pliant, supple. 3 giving form to clay, wax, etc. plasticity n.
Plasticize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). Plasticizer n. (also -iser). Plasticky adj.
[greek: related to *plasma]
Plastic arts n.pl. Arts involving modelling or the representation of solid objects.
Plate —n. 1 a shallow usu. Circular vessel from which food is eaten or served. B
contents of this. 2 similar vessel used for a collection in church etc. 3 (collect.) A
utensils of silver, gold, or other metal. B objects of plated metal. 4 piece of metal
with a name or inscription for affixing to a door etc. 5 illustration on special
paper in a book. 6 thin sheet of metal, glass, etc., coated with a sensitive film for
photography. 7 flat thin usu. Rigid sheet of metal etc., often as part of a
mechanism. 8 a smooth piece of metal etc. For engraving. B impression from
this. 9 a silver or gold cup as a prize for a horse-race etc. B race with this as a
prize. 10 a thin piece of plastic material, moulded to the shape of the mouth, on
which artificial teeth are mounted. B colloq. Denture. 11 each of several rigid
sheets of rock thought to form the earth’s outer crust. 12 thin flat organic
structure or formation. —v. (-ting) 1 apply a thin coat esp. Of silver, gold, or tin
to (another metal). 2 cover (esp. A ship) with plates of metal, for protection. on a
plate colloq. Available with little trouble to the recipient. On one’s plate colloq.
For one to deal with. plateful n. (pl. -s). [latin platta from plattus flat]
Plateau —n. (pl. -x or -s) 1 area of fairly level high ground. 2 state of little
variation after an increase. —v. (plateauing, plateaus, plateaued) (often foll. By
out) reach a level or static state after an increase. [french: related to *plate]
Platen n. 1 plate in a printing-press which presses the paper against the type. 2
cylindrical roller in a typewriter etc. Against which the paper is held. [french
platine: related to *plate]
Plate tectonics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) The study of the earth’s surface based
on the concept of moving ‘plates’ (see sense 11 of *plate) forming its structure.
Platform n. 1 raised level surface, esp. One from which a speaker addresses an
audience or one alongside the line at a railway station. 2 floor area at the
entrance to a bus etc. 3 thick sole of a shoe. 4 declared policy of a political party.
[french: related to *plate, *form]
Platinum n. Chem. White heavy precious metallic element that does not tarnish.
[earlier platina from spanish, diminutive from plata silver]
Platinum blonde (also platinum blond) —adj. Silvery-blond. —n. Person with
such hair.
Platonic adj. 1 of plato or his ideas. 2 (platonic) (of love or friendship) not
sexual. [greek platon (5th-4th c. Bc), name of a greek philosopher]
Platoon n. 1 subdivision of a military company. 2 group of persons acting
together. [french peloton diminutive of pelote *pellet]
Play —v. 1 (often foll. By with) occupy or amuse oneself pleasantly. 2 (foll. By
with) act light-heartedly or flippantly with (a person’s feelings etc.). 3 a perform
on or be able to perform on (a musical instrument). B perform (a piece of music
etc.). C cause (a record, record-player, etc.) To produce sounds. 4 a (foll. By in)
perform a role in (a drama etc.). B perform (a drama or role) on stage etc. C give
a dramatic performance at (a particular theatre or place). 5 act in real life the part
of (play truant; play the fool). 6 (foll. By on) perform (a trick or joke etc.) On (a
person). 7 colloq. Cooperate; do what is wanted (they won’t play). 8 gamble,
gamble on. 9 a take part in (a game or recreation). B compete with (another
player or team) in a game. C occupy (a specified position) in a team for a game.
D assign (a player) to a position. 10 move (a piece) or display (a playing-card) in
one’s turn in a game. 11 (also absol.) Strike (a ball etc.) Or execute (a stroke) in
a game. 12 move about in a lively manner; flit, dart. 13 (often foll. By on) a
touch gently. B emit light, water, etc. (fountains gently playing). 14 allow (a
fish) to exhaust itself pulling against a line. 15 (often foll. By at) a engage half-
heartedly (in an activity). B pretend to be. —n. 1 recreation, amusement, esp. As
the spontaneous activity of children. 2 a playing of a game. B action or manner
of this. 3 dramatic piece for the stage etc. 4 activity or operation (the play of
fancy). 5 a freedom of movement. B space or scope for this. 6 brisk, light, or
fitful movement. 7 gambling. in (or out of) play sport (of the ball etc.) In (or not
in) a position to be played according to the rules. Make a play for colloq. Make a
conspicuous attempt to acquire. Make play with use ostentatiously. Play about
(or around) behave irresponsibly. Play along pretend to cooperate. Play back
play (sounds recently recorded). Play ball colloq. Cooperate. Play by ear 1
perform (music) without having seen it written down. 2 (also play it by ear)
colloq. Proceed step by step according to results. Play one’s cards right (or well)
colloq. Make good use of opportunities; act shrewdly. Play down minimize the
importance of. Played out exhausted of energy or usefulness. Play fast and loose
act unreliably. Play the field see *field. Play for time seek to gain time by
delaying. Play the game observe the rules; behave honourably. Play havoc (or
hell) with colloq. Cause great confusion or difficulty to; disrupt. Play into a
person’s hands act so as unwittingly to give a person an advantage. Play it cool
colloq. Be relaxed or apparently indifferent. Play the market speculate in stocks
etc. Play off (usu. Foll. By against) 1 oppose (one person against another), esp.
For one’s own advantage. 2 play an extra match to decide a draw or tie. Play on
1 continue to play. 2 take advantage of (a person’s feelings etc.). Play safe (or
for safety) avoid risks. Play up 1 behave mischievously. 2 annoy in this way. 3
cause trouble; be irritating. Play up to flatter, esp. To win favour. Play with fire
take foolish risks. [old english]
Playfellow n. Playmate.
Playhouse n. Theatre.
Playing-card n. One of a set of usu. 52 oblong cards, divided into four suits and
used in games.
Plaything n. 1 toy or other thing to play with. 2 person used merely as an object
of amusement or pleasure.
Plead v. 1 (foll. By with) make an earnest appeal to. 2 (of an advocate) address a
lawcourt. 3 maintain (a cause) in a lawcourt. 4 (foll. By guilty or not guilty)
declare oneself to be guilty or not guilty of a charge. 5 allege as an excuse (plead
insanity). 6 (often as pleading adj.) Make an appeal or entreaty (in a pleading
voice). [anglo-french pleder: related to *plea]
Pleasant adj. (-er, -est) pleasing to the mind, feelings, or senses. pleasantly adv.
[french: related to *please]
Please v. (-sing) 1 be agreeable to; make glad; give pleasure. 2 (in passive) a
(foll. By to + infin.) Be glad or willing to (am pleased to help). B (often foll. By
about, at, with) derive pleasure or satisfaction (from). 3 (with it as subject) be the
inclination or wish of (it did not please him to attend). 4 think fit (take as many
as you please). 5 used in polite requests (come in, please). if you please if you
are willing, esp. Iron. To indicate unreasonableness (then, if you please, we had
to pay). Please oneself do as one likes. pleased adj. Pleasing adj. [french plaisir
from latin placeo]
Pleat —n. Fold or crease, esp. A flattened fold in cloth doubled upon itself. —v.
Make a pleat or pleats in. [from *plait]
Plectrum n. (pl. -s or -tra) thin flat piece of plastic etc. For plucking the strings of
a guitar etc. [greek plesso strike]
Pledge —n. 1 solemn promise. 2 thing given as security against a debt etc. 3
thing put in pawn. 4 thing given as a token of favour etc., or of something to
come. 5 drinking of a person’s health, toast. 6 solemn promise to abstain from
alcohol (sign the pledge). —v. (-ging) 1 a deposit as security. B pawn. 2 promise
solemnly by the pledge of (one’s honour, word, etc.). 3 bind by a solemn
promise. 4 drink to the health of. pledge one’s troth see *troth. [french plege]
Pleiades n.pl. Cluster of seven stars in the constellation taurus. [latin from greek]
Pleistocene geol. —adj. Of the first epoch of the quaternary period. —n. This
epoch. [greek pleistos most, kainos new]
Plenipotentiary —n. (pl. -ies) person (esp. A diplomat) invested with full
authority to act. —adj. Having this power. [latin: related to plenary, potent]
Plenty —n. (often foll. By of) abundance, sufficient quantity or number (we
have plenty; plenty of time; a time of plenty). —adj. Colloq. Plentiful. —adv.
Colloq. Fully, quite. [latin plenitas: related to *plenary]
Pleonasm n. Use of more words than are needed (e.g. See with one’s eyes).
pleonastic adj. [greek pleon more]
Pleura n. (pl. -rae) membrane enveloping the lungs. pleural adj. [greek pleura
rib]
Pliers n.pl. Pincers with parallel flat surfaces for holding small objects, bending
wire, etc. [from dial. Ply bend: related to *pliable]
Plimsoll n. (also plimsole) rubber-soled canvas sports shoe. [from *plimsoll line]
Plimsoll line n. (also plimsoll mark) marking on a ship’s side showing the limit
of legal submersion under various conditions. [plimsoll, name of a politician]
Plinth n. 1 lower square slab at the base of a column. 2 base supporting a vase or
statue etc. [greek, = tile]
Pliocene geol. —adj. Of the last epoch of the tertiary period. —n. This epoch.
[greek pleion more, kainos new]
Plod —v. (-dd-) 1 walk doggedly or laboriously; trudge. 2 work slowly and
steadily. —n. Spell of plodding. plodder n. [probably imitative]
Plonk1 —v. 1 set down hurriedly or clumsily. 2 (usu. Foll. By down) set down
firmly. —n. Heavy thud. [imitative]
Plop —n. Sound as of a smooth object dropping into water without a splash. —
v. (-pp-) fall or drop with a plop. —adv. With a plop. [imitative]
Plosive —adj. Pronounced with a sudden release of breath. —n. Plosive sound.
[from *explosive]
Plot —n. 1 defined and usu. Small piece of land. 2 interrelationship of the main
events in a play, novel, film, etc. 3 conspiracy or secret plan. —v. (-tt-) 1 make a
plan or map of. 2 (also absol.) Plan or contrive secretly (a crime etc.). 3 mark on
a chart or diagram. 4 make (a curve etc.) By marking out a number of points. 5
provide (a play, novel, film, etc.) With a plot. plotter n. [old english and french
complot]
Plough (us plow) —n. 1 implement for cutting furrows in the soil and turning it
up. 2 implement resembling this (snowplough). 3 (the plough) the great bear (see
*bear2) or its seven bright stars. —v. 1 (also absol.) Turn up (the earth) with a
plough. 2 (foll. By out, up, etc.) Turn or extract with a plough. 3 furrow or
scratch (a surface) as with a plough. 4 produce (a furrow or line) thus. 5 (foll. By
through) advance laboriously, esp. Through work, a book, etc. 6 (foll. By
through, into) move violently like a plough. 7 colloq. Fail in an examination.
plough back 1 plough (grass etc.) Into the soil to enrich it.
Ploughman’s lunch n. Meal of bread and cheese with pickle and salad.
Plover n. Plump-breasted wading bird, e.g. The lapwing. [latin pluvia rain]
Plow (us plow) —n. 1 implement for cutting furrows in the soil and turning it
up. 2 implement resembling this (snowplough). 3 (the plough) the great bear (see
*bear2) or its seven bright stars. —v. 1 (also absol.) Turn up (the earth) with a
plough. 2 (foll. By out, up, etc.) Turn or extract with a plough. 3 furrow or
scratch (a surface) as with a plough. 4 produce (a furrow or line) thus. 5 (foll. By
through) advance laboriously, esp. Through work, a book, etc. 6 (foll. By
through, into) move violently like a plough. 7 colloq. Fail in an examination.
plough back 1 plough (grass etc.) Into the soil to enrich it. 2 reinvest (profits) in
the business producing them. [old english]
Pluck —v. 1 pick or pull out or away. 2 strip (a bird) of feathers. 3 pull at,
twitch. 4 (foll. By at) tug or snatch at. 5 sound (the string of a musical
instrument) with a finger or plectrum. 6 plunder. —n. 1 courage, spirit. 2
plucking; twitch. 3 animal’s heart, liver, and lungs as food. pluck up summon up
(one’s courage etc.). [old english]
Plug —n. 1 piece of solid material fitting tightly into a hole, used to fill a gap or
cavity or act as a wedge or stopper. 2 a device of metal pins in an insulated
casing, fitting into holes in a socket for making an electrical connection. B
colloq. Electric socket. 3 = *spark-plug. 4 colloq. Piece of free publicity for an
idea, product, etc. 5 cake or stick of tobacco; piece of this for chewing. —v. (-
gg-) 1 (often foll. By up) stop (a hole etc.) With a plug. 2 slang shoot or hit (a
person etc.). 3 colloq. Seek to popularize (an idea, product, etc.) By constant
recommendation. 4 colloq. (foll. By away (at)) work steadily (at). plug in
connect electrically by inserting a plug into a socket. [low german or dutch]
Plum n. 1 a small sweet oval fleshy fruit with a flattish pointed stone. B tree
bearing this. 2 reddish-purple colour. 3 raisin used in cooking. 4 colloq.
Something prized (often attrib.: plum job). have a plum in one’s mouth have an
affectedly rich voice. [latin: related to *prune1]
Plumb —n. Lead ball, esp. Attached to the end of a line for finding the depth of
water or testing whether a wall etc. Is vertical. —adv. 1 exactly (plumb in the
centre). 2 vertically. 3 us slang quite, utterly (plumb crazy). —adj. Vertical. —v.
1 a provide with plumbing. B (often foll. By in) fit as part of a plumbing system.
C work as a plumber. 2 sound or test with a plumb. 3 reach or experience (an
extreme feeling) (plumb the depths of fear).
Plumber n. Person who fits and repairs the apparatus of a water-supply, heating,
etc.
Plume —n. 1 feather, esp. A large one used for ornament. 2 ornament of feathers
etc. Worn on a helmet or hat or in the hair. 3 something resembling this (plume
of smoke). —v. (-ming) 1 decorate or provide with a plume or plumes. 2 refl.
(foll. By on, upon) pride (oneself on esp. Something trivial). 3 (of a bird) preen
(itself or its feathers). [latin pluma]
Plummy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 abounding or rich in plums. 2 colloq. (of a voice)
sounding affectedly rich in tone. 3 colloq. Good, desirable.
Plump1 —adj. Full or rounded in shape; fleshy. —v. (often foll. By up, out)
make or become plump (plumped up the cushion). plumpness n. [low german or
dutch plomp blunt]
Plump2 —v. 1 (foll. By for) decide on, choose. 2 (often foll. By down) drop or
fall abruptly. —n. Abrupt or heavy fall. —adv. Colloq. With a plump. [low
german or dutch plompen, imitative]
Plunder —v. 1 rob or steal, esp. In wartime; loot. 2 exploit (another person’s or
common property) for one’s own profit. —n. 1 activity of plundering. 2 property
so acquired. [german plündern]
Plunge —v. (-ging) 1 (usu. Foll. By in, into) a thrust forcefully or abruptly. B
dive. C (cause to) enter a condition or embark on a course impetuously (they
plunged into marriage; the room was plunged into darkness). 2 immerse
completely. 3 a move suddenly and dramatically downward. B (foll. By down,
into, etc.) Move with a rush (plunged down the stairs). 4 colloq. Run up
gambling debts. —n. Plunging action or movement; dive. take the plunge colloq.
Take a decisive step. [romanic: related to *plumb]
Pluperfect gram. —adj. (of a tense) denoting an action completed prior to some
past point of time (e.g. He had gone by then). —n. Pluperfect tense. [latin plus
quam perfectum more than perfect]
quam perfectum more than perfect]
Plural —adj. 1 more than one in number. 2 gram. (of a word or form) denoting
more than one. —n. Gram. 1 plural word or form. 2 plural number. [latin: related
to *plus]
Pluralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make plural, express in the plural.
Plus —prep. 1 with the addition of (symbol +). 2 (of temperature) above zero
(plus 2°). 3 colloq. With; having gained; newly possessing. —adj. 1 (after a
number) at least (fifteen plus). 2 (after a grade etc.) Rather better than (beta
plus). 3 math. Positive. 4 having a positive electrical charge. 5 (attrib.)
Additional, extra. —n. 1 the symbol +.
Usage the use of plus as a conjunction, as in they arrived late, plus they wanted a
meal, is considered incorrect by some people.
Plus-fours n.pl. Men’s long wide knickerbockers. [the length was increased by 4
inches to create an overhang]
Plush —n. Cloth of silk or cotton etc., with a long soft nap. —adj. 1 made of
Plush —n. Cloth of silk or cotton etc., with a long soft nap. —adj. 1 made of
plush. 2 colloq. = *plushy. plushly adv. Plushness n. [latin: related to *pile3]
Pluto n. Outermost known planet of the solar system. [greek plouton, god of the
underworld]
Plutonic adj. Formed as igneous rock by solidification below the surface of the
earth. [latin pluto, god of the underworld]
Pluvial adj. 1 of rain; rainy. 2 geol. Caused by rain. [latin pluvia rain]
Ply1 n. (pl. -ies) 1 thickness or layer of cloth or wood etc. 2 strand of yarn or
rope etc. [french pli: related to *plait]
Ply2 v. (-ies, -ied) 1 use or wield (a tool, weapon, etc.). 2 work steadily at (ply
one’s trade). 3 (foll. By with) a supply continuously (with food, drink, etc.). B
one’s trade). 3 (foll. By with) a supply continuously (with food, drink, etc.). B
approach repeatedly (with questions, etc.). 4 a (often foll. By between) (of a
vehicle etc.) Travel regularly to and fro. B work (a route) thus. 5 (of a taxi-driver
etc.) Attend regularly for custom (ply for hire). [from *apply]
Plymouth brethren n.pl. Calvinistic religious body with no formal creed and no
official order of ministers. [plymouth in devon]
Plywood n. Strong thin board made by gluing layers of wood with the direction
of the grain alternating.
Pm symb. Promethium.
Pneumoconiosis n. Lung disease caused by the inhalation of dust or small
particles. [greek pneumon lung, konis dust]
Po symb. Polonium.
Poach1 v. 1 cook (an egg) without its shell in or over boiling water. 2 cook (fish
etc.) By simmering in a small amount of liquid. poacher n. [french pochier:
related to *poke2]
Poach2 v. 1 (also absol.) Catch (game or fish) illegally. 2 (often foll. By on)
trespass or encroach on (another’s property, territory, etc.). 3 appropriate
(another’s ideas, staff, etc.). poacher n. [earlier poche: related to *poach1]
Pock n. (also pock-mark) small pus-filled spot on the skin, esp. Caused by
chickenpox or smallpox. pock-marked adj. [old english]
Pocket —n. 1 small bag sewn into or on clothing, for carrying small articles. 2
pouchlike compartment in a suitcase, car door, etc. 3 one’s financial resources
(beyond my pocket). 4 isolated group or area (pockets of resistance). 5 cavity in
the earth containing ore, esp. Gold. 6 pouch at the corner or on the side of a
billiard-or snooker-table into which balls are driven. 7 = *air pocket. 8 (attrib.) A
small enough or intended for carrying in a pocket.
Pod —n. Long seed-vessel, esp. Of a pea or bean. —v. (-dd-) 1 bear or form
pods. 2 remove (peas etc.) From pods. [origin unknown]
Podgy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 short and fat. 2 plump, fleshy. podginess n. [podge short
fat person]
Poet laureate n. (pl. Poets laureate) poet appointed to write poems for state
occasions.
Pogo n. (pl. -s) (also pogo stick) stiltlike toy with a spring, used for jumping
about on. [origin uncertain]
about on. [origin uncertain]
Poinsettia n. Plant with large scarlet bracts surrounding small yellow flowers.
[poinsett, name of a diplomat]
Point —n. 1 sharp or tapered end of a tool, weapon, pencil, etc. 2 tip or extreme
end. 3 that which in geometry has position but not magnitude. 4 particular place
or position. 5 precise or critical moment (when it came to the point, he refused).
6 very small mark on a surface. 7 dot or other punctuation mark. 8 = *decimal
point. 9 stage or degree in progress or increase (abrupt to the point of rudeness).
10 temperature at which a change of state occurs (freezing point). 11 single item
or particular (explained it point by point). 12 unit of scoring in games or of
measuring value etc. 13 significant or essential thing; what is intended or under
discussion (the point of my question; get to the point). 14 sense, purpose;
advantage, value (saw no point in staying). 15 characteristic (tact is not his
strong point). 16 a each of 32 directions marked at equal distances round a
compass. B corresponding direction towards the horizon.
Point-blank —adj. 1 a (of a shot) aimed or fired at very close range. B (of a
range) very close. 2 (of a remark etc.) Blunt, direct. —adv. 1 at very close range.
2 directly, bluntly.
Pointed adj. 1 sharpened or tapering to a point. 2 (of a remark etc.) Having point;
cutting. 3 emphasized. pointedly adv.
Pointer n. 1 thing that points, e.g. The index hand of a gauge. 2 rod for pointing
to features on a chart etc. 3 colloq. Hint. 4 dog of a breed that on scenting game
stands rigid looking towards it. 5 (in pl.) Two stars in the great bear in line with
the pole star.
Point-of-sale adj. (usu. Attrib.) Of the place at which goods are retailed.
Point-of-sale adj. (usu. Attrib.) Of the place at which goods are retailed.
Poison ivy n. N. American climbing plant secreting an irritant oil from its leaves.
Poke1 —v. (-king) 1 a thrust or push with the hand, a stick, etc. B (foll. By out,
up, etc.) Be thrust forward, protrude. 2 (foll. By at etc.) Make thrusts. 3 thrust the
end of a finger etc. Against. 4 (foll. By in) produce (a hole etc. In a thing) by
poking. 5 stir (a fire) with a poker. 6 a (often foll. By about, around) potter. B
(foll. By about, into) pry; search. 7 coarse slang have sexual intercourse with. —
n. 1 act of poking. 2 thrust, nudge. poke fun at ridicule. Poke one’s nose into
colloq. Pry or intrude into. [german or dutch]
Poke2 n. Dial. Bag, sack. buy a pig in a poke see *pig. [french dial.]
Poker2 n. Card-game in which bluff is used as players bet on the value of their
hands. [origin unknown]
Poky adj. (-ier, -iest) (of a room etc.) Small and cramped. pokiness n. [from
*poke1]
Polar 1 adj. Of or near a pole of the earth or of the celestial sphere. 2 having
magnetic or electric polarity. 3 directly opposite in character. [latin: related to
*pole2]
Polar circle n. Each of the circles parallel to the equator at 23° 27´ from either
Polar circle n. Each of the circles parallel to the equator at 23° 27´ from either
pole.
Polarity n. (pl. -ies) 1 tendency of a magnet etc. To point with its extremities to
the magnetic poles of the earth, or of a body to lie with its axis in a particular
direction. 2 state of having two poles with contrary qualities. 3 state of having
two opposite tendencies, opinions, etc. 4 electrical condition of a body (positive
or negative). 5 attraction towards an object.
Polaroid n. Propr. 1 material in thin sheets polarizing light passing through it. 2
camera with internal processing that produces a print rapidly after each
exposure. 3 (in pl.) Sunglasses with polaroid lenses.
Polder n. Piece of land reclaimed from the sea or a river, esp. In the netherlands.
[dutch]
Pole1 n. 1 long slender rounded piece of wood, metal, etc., esp. With the end
placed in the ground as a support etc. 2 = *perch1 3. up the pole slang 1 crazy. 2
in difficulty. [latin palus stake]
Pole2 n. 1 (in full north pole, south pole) a each of the two points in the celestial
sphere about which the stars appear to revolve. B each of the ends of the axis of
rotation of the earth (north pole; south pole). 2 each of the two opposite points
on the surface of a magnet at which magnetic forces are strongest. 3 each of two
terminals (positive and negative) of an electric cell or battery etc. 4 each of two
opposed principles. be poles apart differ greatly. [greek, = axis]
Usage the spelling is north pole and south pole when used as geographical
designations.
Poleax (brit. -axe) —n. 1 hist. = battleaxe 1. 2 butcher’s axe. —v. (-xing) 1 hit or
kill with a poleaxe. 2 (esp. As poleaxed adj.) Colloq. Dumbfound, overwhelm.
[low german or dutch: related to poll, *axe]
Poleaxe (us -ax) —n. 1 hist. = battleaxe 1. 2 butcher’s axe. —v. (-xing) 1 hit or
kill with a poleaxe. 2 (esp. As poleaxed adj.) Colloq. Dumbfound, overwhelm.
[low german or dutch: related to poll, *axe]
Polemic —n. 1 forceful verbal or written controversy or argument. 2 (in pl.) Art
or practice of controversial discussion. —adj. (also polemical) involving dispute;
controversial. polemicist n. [greek polemos war]
Pole star n. 1 star in the little bear, near the north pole in the sky. 2 thing serving
as a guide.
as a guide.
Pole-vault (also pole-jump) —n. Vault, or sport of vaulting, over a high bar with
the aid of a pole held in the hands. —v. Perform this. pole-vaulter n.
Police —n. (as pl.) 1 (usu. Prec. By the) the civil force responsible for
maintaining public order. 2 its members. 3 force with similar functions (military
police). —v. (-cing) 1 keep (a place or people) in order by means of police or a
similar body. 2 provide with police. 3 keep in order, administer, control
(problem of policing the new law). [latin: related to *policy1]
Poliomyelitis n. Infectious viral disease of the grey matter of the central nervous
system with temporary or permanent paralysis. [greek polios grey, muelos
marrow]
Polish —v. (often foll. By up) 1 make or become smooth or glossy by rubbing. 2
(esp. As polished adj.) Refine or improve; add the finishing touches to. —n. 1
substance used for polishing. 2 smoothness or glossiness produced by friction. 3
refinement, elegance. polish off finish (esp. Food) quickly. [latin polio]
Polite adj. (politer, politest) 1 having good manners; courteous. 2 cultivated,
refined. politely adv. Politeness n. [latin politus: related to *polish]
Politicize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 a give a political character to. B make
politically aware. 2 engage in or talk politics. politicization n.
Politics n.pl. 1 (treated as sing. Or pl.) A art and science of government. B public
life and affairs. 2 (usu. Treated as pl.) Political principles or practice (what are
his politics?). 3 activities concerned with seeking power, status, etc.
Polka —n. 1 lively dance of bohemian origin. 2 music for this. —v. (-kas, -kaed
or -ka’d, -kaing) dance the polka. [czech pulka]
Polka dot n. Round dot as one of many forming a regular pattern on a textile
fabric etc.
Poll —n. 1 a (often in pl.) Voting or the counting of votes at an election (go to
the polls). B result of voting or number of votes recorded. 2 = *opinion poll. 3
human head. —v. 1 a take the vote or votes of. B receive (so many votes). C
give (a vote). 2 record the opinion of (a person or group) in an opinion poll. 3 cut
off the top of (a tree or plant), esp. Make a pollard of. 4 (esp. As polled adj.) Cut
the horns off (cattle). [perhaps from low german or dutch]
the horns off (cattle). [perhaps from low german or dutch]
Pollack n. (also pollock) (pl. Same or -s) edible marine fish related to the cod.
[origin unknown]
Pollard —n. 1 animal that has lost or cast its horns; ox, sheep, or goat of a
hornless breed. 2 tree whose branches have been cut back to encourage the dense
growth of young branches. —v. Make (a tree) a pollard. [from *poll]
Pollen n. Fine dustlike grains discharged from the male part of a flower, each
containing the fertilizing element. [latin]
Pollen count n. Index of the amount of pollen in the air, published as a warning
to hay fever sufferers.
Polling-station n. Building, often a school, used for voting at an election.
Poll tax n. 1 informal = *community charge. 2 hist. Tax levied on every adult.
Polonaise n. 1 slow dance of polish origin. 2 music for this. [french: related to
*pole]
Polyethene n. = *polythene.
Polyethylene n. = *polythene.
Polygamy n. Practice of having more than one wife or (less usu.) Husband at
once. polygamist n. Polygamous adj. [greek gamos marriage]
Polygon n. Figure with many (usu. Five or more) sides and angles. polygonal
adj. [greek -gonos angled]
Polygyny n. Polygamy in which a man has more than one wife. polygynous adj.
[greek gune woman]
Polyhedron n. (pl. -dra) solid figure with many (usu. More than six) faces.
polyhedral adj. [greek hedra base]
Polyphony n. (pl. -ies) mus. Contrapuntal music. polyphonic adj. [greek phone
sound]
Polypropene n. = *polypropylene.
Pom n. Austral. & nz slang offens. = *pommy. [abbreviation]
Pomade n. Scented ointment for the hair and head. [italian: related to *pomace]
Pomegranate n. 1 tropical fruit with a tough rind, reddish pulp, and many seeds.
2 tree bearing this. [french pome grenate from romanic, = many-seeded apple]
Pommel —n. 1 knob, esp. At the end of a sword-hilt. 2 upward projecting front
of a saddle. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) = *pummel. [latin pomum apple]
Pommy n. (also pommie) (pl. -ies) austral. & nz slang offens. British person,
esp. A recent immigrant. [origin uncertain]
Ponce slang —n. 1 man who lives off a prostitute’s earnings; pimp. 2 offens.
Homosexual or effeminate man. —v. (-cing) act as a ponce. ponce about move
about effeminately or ineffectually. [origin unknown]
Poncho n. (pl. -s) cloak of a usu. Blanket-like piece of cloth with a slit in the
middle for the head. [south american spanish]
Ponderous adj. 1 slow and awkward, esp. Because of great weight. 2 (of style
etc.) Laborious; dull. ponderously adv. Ponderousness n. [latin pondus -
derweight]
Pontoon1 n. Card-game in which players try to acquire cards with a face value
totalling 21. [probably a corruption of *vingt-et-un]
Pony n. (pl. -ies) horse of any small breed. [perhaps from french poulenet foal]
Pony-tail n. Hair drawn back, tied, and hanging down behind the head.
Pony-tail n. Hair drawn back, tied, and hanging down behind the head.
Poodle n. 1 dog of a breed with a curly coat that is usually clipped. 2 servile
follower. [german pudel]
Pool1 n. 1 small body of still water. 2 small shallow body of any liquid. 3
swimming-pool. 4 deep place in a river. [old english]
Poop n. Stern of a ship; the deck which is furthest aft and highest. [latin puppis]
Poor adj. 1 without enough money to live comfortably. 2 (foll. By in) deficient
in (a possession or quality). 3 a scanty, inadequate. B less good than is usual or
expected (poor visibility; is a poor driver). C paltry; inferior (came a poor third).
4 deserving pity or sympathy; unfortunate (you poor thing). 5 spiritless,
despicable. poor man’s inferior or cheaper substitute for. [latin pauper]
Pop1 —n. 1 sudden sharp explosive sound as of a cork when drawn. 2 colloq.
Effervescent drink. —v. (-pp-) 1 (cause to) make a pop. 2 (foll. By in, out, up,
etc.) Go, move, come, or put unexpectedly or abruptly (pop out to the shop). 3
slang pawn. —adv. With the sound of a pop (go pop). pop off colloq. Die. Pop
the question colloq. Propose marriage. [imitative]
Pop2 n. Colloq. 1 (in full pop music) highly successful commercial music, esp.
Since the 1950s. 2 (attrib.) Of or relating to pop music (pop concert, group,
song). 3 pop record or song (top of the pops). [abbreviation]
Pop art n. Art based on modern popular culture and the mass media.
Pope n. (also pope) head of the roman catholic church (the pope; we have a new
pope). [greek papas patriarch]
Pop-eyed adj. Colloq. 1 having bulging eyes. 2 wide-eyed (with surprise etc.).
Popgun n. Child’s toy gun shooting pellets etc. By the compression of air.
Poplar n. Tall slender tree with a straight trunk and often tremulous leaves. [latin
populus]
Poppadam n. (also poppadom, popadam) ind. Thin, crisp, spiced bread eaten
with curry etc. [tamil]
Poppy n. (pl. -ies) 1 plant with showy esp. Scarlet flowers and a milky sap. 2
artificial poppy worn on remembrance sunday. [latin papaver]
Popular adj. 1 liked by many people. 2 a of or for the general public. B prevalent
among the general public (popular fallacies). 3 (sometimes derog.) Adapted to
the understanding, taste, or means of the people (popular science; the popular
press). popularity n. Popularly adv.
Populate v. (-ting) 1 inhabit, form the population of. 2 supply with inhabitants.
[medieval latin: related to *people]
Population explosion n. Sudden large increase of population.
Pop-up adj. Involving parts that pop up automatically (pop-up toaster; pop-up
book).
Porcupine n. Rodent with a body and tail covered with erectile spines.
[provençal: related to *pork, *spine]
Pore1 n. Esp. Biol. Minute opening in a surface through which fluids etc. May
pass. [greek poros]
Pork n. Flesh (esp. Unsalted) of a pig, used as food. [latin porcus pig]
Pork pie hat n. Hat with a flat crown and a brim turned up all round.
Porous adj. 1 full of pores. 2 letting through air, water, etc. porosity n. [latin:
related to *pore1]
Porphyry n. (pl. -ies) hard rock composed of crystals of white or red feldspar in a
Porphyry n. (pl. -ies) hard rock composed of crystals of white or red feldspar in a
red matrix. porphyritic adj. [greek: related to *purple]
Porpoise n. Sea mammal of the whale family, with a blunt rounded snout. [latin
porcus pig, piscis fish]
Porringer n. Small bowl, often with a handle, for soup etc. [french potager:
related to *pottage]
Port3 —n. Left-hand side of a ship or aircraft looking forward. —v. (also absol.)
Turn (the helm) to port. [probably originally the side turned to *port1]
Port4 n. 1 opening in the side of a ship for entrance, loading, etc. 2 porthole.
[latin porta gate]
Portable —adj. 1 easily movable, convenient for carrying. 2 (of a right, opinion,
etc.) Capable of being transferred or adapted in altered circumstances (portable
pension). —n. Portable version of an item, e.g. A television. portability n. [latin
porto carry]
Portal n. Doorway or gate etc., esp. An elaborate one. [latin: related to *port4]
Porter1 n. 1 person employed to carry luggage etc. 2 dark beer brewed from
charred or browned malt. [latin porto carry]
Portfolio n. (pl. -s) 1 a folder for loose sheets of paper, drawings, etc. B samples
of an artist’s work. 2 range of investments held by a person, company, etc. 3
office of a minister of state (cf. *minister without portfolio). [italian portafogli
sheet-carrier]
Portion —n. 1 part or share. 2 amount of food allotted to one person. 3 one’s
destiny or lot. —v. 1 divide (a thing) into portions. 2 (foll. By out) distribute.
[latin portio]
Portland cement n. Cement manufactured from chalk and clay. [isle of portland
in dorset]
Portmanteau n. (pl. -s or -x) trunk for clothes etc., opening into two equal parts.
[latin porto carry: related to *mantle]
Portmanteau word n. Word combining the sounds and meanings of two others
(e.g. Motel, oxbridge).
Portuguese man-of-war n. (pl. Men-) jellyfish with a large crest and poisonous
sting.
sting.
Pose —v. (-sing) 1 assume a certain attitude of the body, esp. When being
photographed or painted. 2 (foll. By as) pretend to be (another person etc.)
(posing as a celebrity). 3 behave affectedly to impress others. 4 put forward or
present (a question etc.). 5 place (an artist’s model etc.) In a certain attitude. —n.
1 attitude of body or mind. 2 affectation, pretence. [latin pauso *pause, confused
with latin pono place]
Posh colloq. —adj. Smart; upper-class. —adv. In an upper-class way (talk posh).
posh up smarten up. poshly adv. Poshness n. [perhaps from slang posh a dandy,
money]
Position —n. 1 place occupied by a person or thing. 2 way in which a thing or its
parts are placed or arranged. 3 proper place (in position). 4 advantage (jockeying
for position). 5 attitude; view on a question. 6 situation in relation to others (puts
one in an awkward position). 7 rank, status; social standing. 8 paid employment.
9 place where troops etc. Are posted for strategical purposes. —v. Place in
position. in a position to able to. positional adj. [latin pono posit-place]
Positive vetting n. Inquiry into the background etc. Of a candidate for a post
involving national security.
Positron n. Physics elementary particle with the same mass as but opposite
(positive) charge to an electron. [positive electron]
Possessive —adj. 1 wanting to retain what one has, reluctant to share. 2 jealous
and domineering. 3 gram. Indicating possession. —n. (in full possessive case)
gram. Case of nouns and pronouns expressing possession. possessiveness n.
Possibility n. (pl. -ies) 1 state or fact of being possible. 2 thing that may exist or
happen. 3 (usu. In pl.) Capability of being used; potential (have possibilities).
[latin posse be able]
Post1 —n. 1 long stout piece of timber or metal set upright in the ground etc. To
support something, mark a position or boundary, etc. 2 pole etc. Marking the
start or finish of a race. —v. 1 (often foll. By up) attach (a notice etc.) In a
prominent place. 2 announce or advertise by poster or list. [latin postis]
Post2 —n. 1 official conveyance of parcels, letters, etc. (send it by post). 2 single
collection or delivery of these; the letters etc. Dispatched (has the post arrived?).
3 place where letters etc.
Post2 —n. 1 official conveyance of parcels, letters, etc. (send it by post). 2 single
collection or delivery of these; the letters etc. Dispatched (has the post arrived?).
3 place where letters etc. Are collected (take it to the post). —v. 1 put (a letter
etc.) In the post. 2 (esp. As posted adj.) (often foll. By up) supply with
information (keep me posted). 3 a enter (an item) in a ledger. B (often foll. By
up) complete (a ledger) in this way. [latin: related to *position]
Post3 —n. 1 place where a soldier is stationed or which he or she patrols. 2 place
of duty. 3 a position taken up by a body of soldiers. B force occupying this. C
fort. 4 job, paid employment. 5 = *trading post. —v. 1 place (soldiers, an
employee, etc.). 2 appoint to a post or command. [french: related to *post2]
Postage stamp n. Official stamp affixed to a letter etc., showing the amount of
postage paid.
Postbag n. = *mailbag.
Postdate v. (-ting) 1 give a date later than the actual one to (a document etc.). 2
follow in time.
Poste restante n. Department in a post office where letters are kept till called for.
[french]
Posterior —adj. 1 later; coming after. 2 at the back. —n. (in sing. Or pl.)
Buttocks. [latin, comparative of posterus: related to *post-]
Postern n. Archaic back door; side way or entrance. [latin: related to *posterior]
Post-free adj. & adv. Carried by post free of charge, or with postage prepaid.
Postgraduate —n. Person engaged in a course of study after taking a first degree.
—adj. Of or concerning postgraduates.
Posthumous adj. 1 occurring after death. 2 (of a book etc.) Published after the
author’s death. 3 (of a child) born after the death of its father. posthumously adv.
[latin postumus last]
Postilion n. (also postillion) person riding on the near horse of a team drawing a
coach when there is no coachman. [italian: related to *post2]
Post-impressionism n. Art intending to express the individual artist’s conception
of the objects represented. post-impressionist n. & adj.
Postman n. (fem. Postwoman) person employed to deliver and collect letters etc.
Postmark —n. Official mark on a letter, giving the place, date, etc., and
cancelling the stamp. —v. Mark (an envelope etc.) With this.
Post-modern adj. (in the arts etc.) Of the movement reacting against modernism,
esp. By drawing attention to former conventions. post-modernism n. Post-
modernist n. & adj.
Post-mortem —n. 1 examination made after death, esp. To determine its cause. 2
colloq. Discussion after a game, election, etc. —adv. & adj. After death. [latin]
Post-office box n. Numbered place in a post office where letters are kept until
Post-office box n. Numbered place in a post office where letters are kept until
called for.
Postpone v. (-ning) cause or arrange (an event etc.) To take place at a later time.
postponement n. [latin pono place]
Postprandial adj. Formal or joc. After dinner or lunch. [latin prandium a meal]
Postscript n. Additional paragraph or remark, usu. At the end of a letter after the
signature and introduced by ‘ps’.
Postulate —v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By that) assume as a necessary condition, esp.
As a basis for reasoning; take for granted. 2 claim. —n. 1 thing postulated. 2
prerequisite or condition. postulation n. [latin postulo]
Posture —n. 1 relative position of parts, esp. Of the body; carriage, bearing. 2
mental attitude. 3 condition or state (of affairs etc.). —v. (-ring) 1 assume a
mental or physical attitude, esp. For effect. 2 pose (a person). postural adj. [latin:
related to *posit]
Pot1 —n. 1 rounded ceramic, metal, or glass vessel for holding liquids or solids
or for cooking in. 2 flowerpot, teapot, etc. 3 contents of a pot. 4 chamber-pot;
child’s potty. 5 total amount bet in a game etc. 6 (usu. In pl.) Colloq. Large sum
(pots of money). 7 slang silver cup etc. As a trophy. —v. (-tt-) 1 place in a pot. 2
(usu. As potted adj.) Preserve in a sealed pot (potted shrimps). 3 pocket (a ball)
in billiards etc. 4 abridge or epitomize. 5 shoot at, hit, or kill (an animal) with a
pot-shot. 6 seize or secure. go to pot colloq. Deteriorate; be ruined. potful n. (pl.
-s). [old english from latin]
Potato n. (pl. -es) 1 starchy plant tuber used for food. 2 plant bearing this.
[spanish patata from taino batata]
Pot-bound adj. (of a plant) with roots filling the flowerpot, leaving no room to
expand.
Poteen n. Ir. Illicit alcoholic spirit. [irish poitín diminutive of pota *pot1]
Potent adj. 1 powerful; strong. 2 (of a reason) cogent; forceful. 3 (of a male)
capable of sexual erection or orgasm. potency n. [latin potens -ent-: related to
*posse]
Potential —adj. Capable of coming into being or action; latent. —n. 1 capacity
for use or development. 2 usable resources. 3 physics quantity determining the
energy of mass in a gravitational field or of charge in an electric field.
potentiality n. Potentially adv. [latin: related to *potent]
potentiality n. Potentially adv. [latin: related to *potent]
Pothole n. 1 deep hole or cave system in rock. 2 hole in a road surface. potholer
n. Potholing n.
Pot-hook n. 1 hook over a hearth for hanging or lifting a pot. 2 curved stroke in
handwriting.
Pot-hunter n. 1 person who hunts for game at random. 2 person who competes
merely for the prize.
Potion n. Dose of a liquid medicine, drug, poison, etc. [latin poto drink]
Pot-pourri n. (pl. -s) 1 scented mixture of dried petals and spices. 2 musical or
Pot-pourri n. (pl. -s) 1 scented mixture of dried petals and spices. 2 musical or
literary medley. [french, = rotten pot]
Potter1 v. (us putter) 1 (often foll. By about, around) work or occupy oneself in a
desultory manner. 2 go slowly, dawdle, loiter (pottered up to the pub). [dial. Pote
push]
Pottery n. (pl. -ies) 1 vessels etc. Made of fired clay. 2 potter’s work. 3 potter’s
workshop. [french: related to *potter2]
Potting shed n. Shed in which plants are potted and tools etc. Are stored.
Potty1 adj. (-ier, -iest) slang 1 foolish, crazy. 2 insignificant, trivial. pottiness n.
[origin unknown]
Pouch —n. 1 small bag or detachable outside pocket. 2 baggy area of skin under
the eyes etc. 3 a pocket-like receptacle of marsupials. B similar structure in
various animals, e.g. In the cheeks of rodents. —v. 1 put or make into a pouch. 2
take possession of; pocket. [french: related to *poke2]
Poultice —n. Soft medicated usu. Heated mass applied to the body and kept in
place with muslin etc., to relieve soreness and inflammation. —v. (-cing) apply a
poultice to. [latin puls pottage]
Pounce —v. (-cing) 1 spring or swoop, esp. As in capturing prey. 2 (often foll.
By on, upon) a make a sudden attack. B seize eagerly upon a remark etc. —n.
Act of pouncing. [origin unknown]
Pound2 v. 1 crush or beat with repeated blows. 2 (foll. By at, on) deliver heavy
blows or gunfire. 3 (foll. By along etc.) Make one’s way heavily or clumsily. 4
(of the heart) beat heavily. [old english]
Pound3 n. Enclosure where stray animals or officially removed vehicles are kept
until claimed. [old english]
Pound coin n. (also pound note) coin or note worth one pound.
Pour v. 1 (usu. Foll. By down, out, over, etc.) Flow or cause to flow esp.
Downwards in a stream or shower. 2 dispense (a drink) by pouring. 3 rain
Downwards in a stream or shower. 2 dispense (a drink) by pouring. 3 rain
heavily. 4 (usu. Foll. By in, out, etc.) Come or go in profusion or rapid
succession (the crowd poured out; letters poured in). 5 discharge or send freely.
6 (often foll. By out) utter at length or in a rush (poured out their story). [origin
unknown]
Pout —v. 1 push the lips forward as a sign of displeasure or sulking. 2 (of the
lips) be pushed forward. —n. This action. [origin unknown]
Poverty n. 1 being poor; want. 2 (often foll. By of, in) scarcity or lack. 3
inferiority, poorness. [latin pauper]
Powder —n. 1 mass of fine dry particles. 2 medicine or cosmetic in this form. 3
= *gunpowder. —v. 1 apply powder to. 2 (esp. As powdered adj.) Reduce to a
fine powder (powdered milk). powdery adj. [latin pulvis -ver-dust]
Powder blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) pale blue.
Powder-puff n. Soft pad for applying powder to the skin, esp. The face.
Power of attorney n. Authority to act for another person in legal and financial
matters.
Power point n. Socket in a wall etc. For connecting an electrical device to the
mains.
Powwow —n. Meeting for discussion (orig. Among n. American indians). —v.
Hold a powwow. [algonquian]
Poxy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 infected by pox. 2 slang of poor quality; worthless.
Pp abbr. Pianissimo.
Pr symb. Praseodymium.
Prairie oyster n. Seasoned raw egg, swallowed without breaking the yolk.
Praise —v. (-sing) 1 express warm approval or admiration of. 2 glorify (god) in
words. —n. Praising; commendation. [french preisier from latin pretium price]
Prance —v. (-cing) 1 (of a horse) raise the forelegs and spring from the hind
legs. 2 walk or behave in an elated or arrogant manner. —n. Prancing, prancing
movement. [origin unknown]
Prang slang —v. 1 crash (an aircraft or vehicle). 2 damage by impact. 3 bomb (a
target) successfully. —n. Act of pranging. [imitative]
Prate —v. (-ting) 1 chatter; talk too much. 2 talk foolishly or irrelevantly. —n.
Prating; idle talk. [low german or dutch]
Pray v. (often foll. By for or to + infin. Or that + clause) 1 say prayers; make
devout supplication. 2 a entreat. B ask earnestly (prayed to be released). 3 (as
imper.) Archaic please (pray tell me). [latin precor]
Prayer2 n. Person who prays.
Pre-prefix before (in time, place, order, degree, or importance). [latin prae
before]
Precambrian geol. —adj. Of the earliest geological era. —n. This era.
Precast adj. (of concrete) cast in its final shape before positioning.
Precedent —n. Previous case etc. Taken as a guide for subsequent cases or as a
justification. —adj. Preceding in time, order, importance, etc. [french: related to
*precede]
Precentor n. Person who leads the singing or (in a synagogue) the prayers of a
congregation. [latin praecentor from cano sing]
Precept n. 1 rule or guide, esp. For conduct. 2 lawful demand, esp. From one
authority to another to levy rates. [latin praeceptum maxim, order]
Preciosity n. Affected refinement in art etc., esp. In the choice of words. [related
to *precious]
Precipitate —v. (-ting) 1 hasten the occurrence of; cause to occur prematurely. 2
(foll. By into) send rapidly into a certain state or condition (was precipitated into
war). 3 throw down headlong. 4 chem. Cause (a substance) to be deposited in
solid form from a solution. 5 physics condense (vapour) into drops and so
deposit it. —adj. 1 headlong; violently hurried (precipitate departure).
Précis —n. (pl. Same) summary, abstract. —v. (-cises; -cised; -cising) make a
précis of. [french]
Precisely adv. 1 in a precise manner; exactly. 2 (as a reply) quite so, as you say.
Precocious adj. 1 often derog. (of esp. A child) prematurely developed in some
respect. 2 (of an action etc.) Indicating such development. precociously adv.
Precociousness n. Precocity n. [latin praecox -cocis early ripe]
Predicant hist. —adj. (of a religious order) engaged in preaching. —n. Predicant
person, esp. A dominican. [latin: related to *predicate]
Pre-echo n. (pl. -es) 1 faint copy heard just before an actual sound in a recording,
caused by the accidental transfer of signals. 2 foreshadowing.
Pre-embryo n. (pl. -s) potential human embryo in the first fourteen days after
fertilization.
Preen v. 1 (of a bird) tidy (the feathers or itself) with its beak. 2 (of a person)
smarten or admire (oneself, one’s hair, clothes, etc.). 3 (often foll. By on)
congratulate or pride (oneself). [origin unknown]
Preface —n. 1 introduction to a book stating its subject, scope, etc. 2 preliminary
part of a speech. —v. (-cing) 1 (foll. By with) introduce or begin (a speech or
event). 2 provide (a book etc.) With a preface. 3 (of an event etc.) Lead up to
(another). prefatory adj. [latin praefatio]
Prefecture n. 1 district under the government of a prefect. 2 prefect’s office or
tenure. [latin: related to *prefect]
Prefer v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By to, or to + infin.) Like better (prefers coffee to
tea). 2 submit (information, an accusation, etc.) For consideration. 3 promote or
advance (a person). [latin praefero -lat-]
Preference shares n.pl. (also preference stock n.sing.) Shares or stock whose
entitlement to dividend takes precedence over that of ordinary shares.
Prefix —n. 1 verbal element placed at the beginning of a word to qualify its
meaning (e.g. Ex-, non-). 2 title before a name (e.g. Mr). —v. (often foll. By to)
1 add as an introduction. 2 join (a word or element) as a prefix.
1 add as an introduction. 2 join (a word or element) as a prefix.
Prehensile adj. Zool. (of a tail or limb) capable of grasping. [latin prehendo -
hens-grasp]
Prehistoric adj. 1 of the period before written records. 2 colloq. Utterly out of
date. prehistory n.
Prelate n. High ecclesiastical dignitary, e.g. A bishop. [latin: related to *prefer]
Première —n. First performance or showing of a play or film. —v. (-ring) give a
première of. [french feminine: related to *premier]
Premise n. 1 logic = *premiss. 2 (in pl.) A house or other building with its
grounds, outbuildings, etc. B law houses, lands, or tenements previously
specified in a document etc. on the premises in the building etc. Concerned.
[latin praemissa set in front]
Premolar n. (in full premolar tooth) tooth between the canines and molars.
Preoccupy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (of a thought etc.) Dominate the mind of (a person) to
the exclusion of all else. 2 (as preoccupied adj.) Otherwise engrossed; mentally
distracted. preoccupation n. [latin praeoccupo seize beforehand]
Prepare v. (-ring) 1 make or get ready for use, consideration, etc. 2 assemble (a
meal etc.). 3 a make (a person or oneself) ready or disposed in some way
(prepared them for a shock). B get ready (prepare to jump). be prepared (often
foll. By for, or to + infin.) Be disposed or willing to. [latin paro make ready]
Prepay v. (past and past part. Prepaid) 1 pay (a charge) in advance. 2 pay postage
on (a letter etc.) Before posting. prepayment n.
Usage prerequisite is sometimes confused with perquisite which means ‘an extra
profit, allowance, or right’.
Presbyter n. 1 (in the episcopal church) minister of the second order; priest. 2 (in
the presbyterian church) elder. [church latin from greek, = elder]
Presbyterian —adj. (of a church) governed by elders all of equal rank, esp. With
ref. To the church of scotland. —n. Member of a presbyterian church.
presbyterianism n.
Preschool adj. Of the time before a child is old enough to go to school.
Present1 —adj. 1 (usu. Predic.) Being in the place in question. 2 a now existing,
occurring, or being such. B now being considered etc. (in the present case). 3
gram. Expressing an action etc. Now going on or habitually performed (present
participle). —n. (prec. By the) 1 the time now passing (no time like the present).
2 gram. Present tense. at present now. By these presents law by this document.
For the present just now; for the time being. [latin praesens -ent-]
Presently adv. 1 soon; after a short time. 2 esp. Us & scot. At the present time;
now.
Preserve —v. (-ving) 1 keep safe or free from decay etc. 2 maintain (a thing) in
its existing state. 3 retain (a quality or condition). 4 treat (food) to prevent
decomposition or fermentation. 5 keep (game etc.) Undisturbed for private use.
—n. (in sing. Or pl.) 1 preserved fruit; jam. 2 place where game etc. Is
preserved. 3 sphere of activity regarded as a person’s own. preservation n. [latin
servo keep]
Pre-set v. (-tt-; past and past part. -set) set or fix (a device) in advance of its
operation.
Preshrunk adj. (of fabric etc.) Treated so that it shrinks during manufacture and
not in use.
Press2 v. 1 hist. Force to serve in the army or navy. 2 bring into use as a
makeshift (was pressed into service). [obsolete prest from french, = loan]
Press-gang —n. 1 hist. Body of men employed to press men into army or navy
service. 2 any group using coercive methods. —v. Force into service.
Press-stud n. Small fastening device engaged by pressing its two halves together.
Press-up n. Exercise in which the prone body is raised from the ground by
placing the hands on the floor and straightening the arms.
Pressure point n. Point where an artery can be pressed against a bone to inhibit
bleeding.
Presto mus. —adv. & adj. In quick tempo. —n. (pl. -s) presto passage or
movement. [latin praestus quick]
Presume v. (-ming) 1 (often foll. By that) suppose to be true; take for granted. 2
(often foll. By to + infin.) A take the liberty, be impudent enough (presumed to
question their authority). B dare, venture (may i presume to ask?). 3 be
presumptuous. 4 (foll. By on, upon) take advantage of or make unscrupulous use
of (a person’s good nature etc.). [latin praesumo]
Preterit (brit. Preterite) gram. —adj. Expressing a past action or state. —n.
Preterite tense or form. [latin praeteritum past]
Preterite tense or form. [latin praeteritum past]
Preterite (us preterit) gram. —adj. Expressing a past action or state. —n.
Preterite tense or form. [latin praeteritum past]
Pretty —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 attractive in a delicate way (pretty girl; pretty dress). 2
fine or good of its kind. 3 iron. Considerable, fine (a pretty penny). —adv.
Colloq. Fairly, moderately. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. By up) make pretty.
pretty much (or nearly or well) colloq. Almost; very nearly. prettily adv.
Prettiness n. [old english]
Usage prevaricate is often confused with procrastinate, which means ‘to defer or
put off action’.
Prevent v. (often foll. By from + verbal noun) stop from happening or doing
something; hinder; make impossible (the weather prevented me from going).
preventable adj. (also preventible). Prevention n. [latin praevenio -vent-hinder]
Preview —n. Showing of a film, play, exhibition, etc., before it is seen by the
general public. —v. See or show in advance.
Previous —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) coming before in time or order. 2 colloq.
Hasty, premature. —adv. (foll. By to) before. previously adv. [latin praevius
Hasty, premature. —adv. (foll. By to) before. previously adv. [latin praevius
from via way]
Prey —n. 1 animal that is hunted or killed by another for food. 2 (often foll. By
to) person or thing that is influenced by or vulnerable to (something undesirable)
(prey to morbid fears). —v. (foll. By on, upon) 1 seek or take as prey. 2 (of a
disease, emotion, etc.) Exert a harmful influence (it preyed on his mind). [latin
praeda]
Price —n. 1 amount of money for which a thing is bought or sold. 2 what is or
must be given, done, sacrificed, etc., to obtain or achieve something (peace at
any price). 3 odds in betting. —v. (-cing) 1 fix or find the price of (a thing for
sale). 2 estimate the value of. at a price at a high cost. Price on a person’s head
reward for a person’s capture or death. What price …? (often foll. By verbal
noun) colloq. 1 what is the chance of …? (what price your finishing the course?).
2 iron. The much boasted … proves disappointing (what price your friendship
now?). [latin pretium]
Prick —v. 1 pierce slightly; make a small hole in. 2 (foll. By off, out) mark with
small holes or dots. 3 trouble mentally (my conscience pricked me). 4 tingle. 5
(foll. By out) plant (seedlings etc.) In small holes pricked in the soil. —n. 1 act
of pricking. 2 small hole or mark made by pricking. 3 pain caused as by
pricking. 4 mental pain. 5 coarse slang a penis. B derog. Contemptible man.
prick up one’s ears 1 (of a dog etc.) Make the ears erect when alert. 2 (of a
person) become suddenly attentive. [old english]
Prickly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having prickles. 2 (of a person) ready to take offence. 3
tingling. prickliness n.
Prickly heat n. Itchy inflammation of the skin, causing a tingling sensation and
common in hot countries.
Prim adj. (primmer, primmest) stiffly formal and precise; prudish. primly adv.
Primness n. [french: related to *prime1]
Prima facie —adv. At first sight. —adj. (of evidence) based on the first
impression. [latin]
Prime2 v. (-ming) 1 prepare (a thing) for use or action. 2 prepare (a gun) for
firing or (an explosive) for detonation. 3 pour (liquid) into a pump to enable it to
work. 4 prepare (wood etc.) For painting by applying a substance that prevents
paint from being absorbed. 5 equip (a person) with information etc. 6 ply (a
person) with food or drink in preparation for something. [origin unknown]
Primeval adj. 1 of the first age of the world. 2 ancient, primitive. primevally adv.
[latin: related to *prime1, aevum age]
Primp v. 1 make (the hair, clothes, etc.) Tidy. 2 refl. Make (oneself) smart. [var.
Of *prim]
Primrose n. 1 a wild plant bearing pale yellow spring flowers. B its flower. 2
pale yellow colour. [french and medieval latin, = first rose]
Primus n. Propr. Portable cooking stove burning vaporized oil. [latin, = first]
Prince n. (as a title usu. Prince) 1 male member of a royal family other than the
reigning king. 2 ruler of a small state. 3 noble man in some countries. 4 (often
foll. By of) chief or greatest (the prince of novelists). [latin princeps -cip-]
Prince consort n. (title conferred on) the husband of a reigning queen who is
himself a prince.
Prince of wales n. (title conferred on) the eldest son and heir apparent of the
british monarch.
Prince regent n. Prince who acts as regent, esp. The future george iv.
Princess royal n. (title conferred on) the british monarch’s eldest daughter.
Principal parts n.pl. Gram. Parts of a verb from which all other parts can be
deduced.
Prink v. 1 a (usu. Refl.; often foll. By up) smarten (oneself) up. B dress oneself
up. 2 (of a bird) preen. [origin unknown]
Printed circuit n. Electric circuit with thin strips of conductor printed on a flat
insulating sheet.
Printer n. 1 person who prints books etc. 2 owner of a printing business. 3 device
that prints, esp. From a computer.
Prior —adj. 1 earlier. 2 (often foll. By to) coming before in time, order, or
importance. —adv. (foll. By to) before (left prior to his arrival). —n. (fem.
Prioress) 1 superior of a religious house or order. 2 (in an abbey) deputy of an
abbot. [latin, = earlier]
Priority n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing that is regarded as more important than others. 2
high(est) place among various things to be done (gave priority to). 3 right to do
something before other people. 4 right to proceed ahead of other traffic. 5 (state
of) being more important. prioritize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [medieval
latin: related to *prior]
Prise v. (also prize) (-sing or -zing) force open or out by leverage. [french:
related to *prize2]
Prism n. 1 solid figure whose two ends are equal parallel rectilinear figures, and
whose sides are parallelograms. 2 transparent body in this form, usu. Triangular
with refracting surfaces at an acute angle with each other, which separates white
light into a spectrum of colours. [greek prisma -matthing sawn]
Prismatic adj. 1 of, like, or using a prism. 2 (of colours) distributed (as if) by a
transparent prism. [greek: related to *prism]
Prisoner n. 1 person kept in prison. 2 (in full prisoner at the bar) person in
custody on a criminal charge and on trial. 3 person or thing confined by illness,
another’s grasp, etc. 4 (in full prisoner of war) person captured in war. take
prisoner seize and hold as a prisoner. [anglo-french: related to *prison]
Prissy adj. (-ier, -iest) prim, prudish. prissily adv. Prissiness n. [perhaps from
prim, sissy]
Private means n.pl. Income from investments etc., apart from earned income.
Private sector n. The part of the economy free of direct state control.
Privatize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) transfer (a business etc.) From state to
private ownership. privatization n.
Privy —adj. 1 (foll. By to) sharing in the secret of (a person’s plans etc.). 2
archaic hidden, secret. —n. (pl. -ies) lavatory, esp. An outside one. [french privé
private place]
Privy purse n. Allowance from the public revenue for the monarch’s private
expenses.
Privy seal n. Seal formerly affixed to minor state documents.
Prize1 —n. 1 something that can be won in a competition, lottery, etc. 2 reward
given as a symbol of victory or superiority. 3 something striven for or worth
striving for. 4 (attrib.) A to which a prize is awarded (prize poem). B excellent of
its kind. —v. (-zing) value highly (a much prized possession). [french: related to
*praise]
Prize2 n. Ship or property captured in naval warfare. [french prise from latin
prehendo seize]
Pro2 —adj. (of an argument or reason) for; in favour. —n. (pl. -s) reason in
Pro2 —adj. (of an argument or reason) for; in favour. —n. (pl. -s) reason in
favour. —prep. In favour of. [latin, = for, on behalf of]
Pro2 —adj. (of an argument or reason) for; in favour. —n. (pl. -s) reason in
favour. —prep. In favour of. [latin, = for, on behalf of]
Pro-2 prefix before in time, place, order, etc. [greek pro before]
Proactive adj. (of a person, policy, etc.) Taking the initiative. [from *pro-2, after
*reactive]
Probable —adj. (often foll. By that) that may be expected to happen or prove
true; likely (the probable explanation; it is probable that they forgot). —n.
Probable candidate, member of a team, etc. probably adv. [latin: related to
*prove]
Proboscis n. (pl. -sces) 1 long flexible trunk or snout of some mammals, e.g. An
elephant or tapir. 2 elongated mouth parts of some insects. [greek bosko feed]
Proceeds n.pl. Profits from sale etc. [pl. Of obsolete proceed (n.) From *proceed]
Process1 —n. 1 course of action or proceeding, esp. A series of stages in
manufacture etc. 2 progress or course (in process of construction). 3 natural or
involuntary course or change (process of growing old). 4 action at law; summons
or writ. 5 natural projection of a bone, stem, etc. —v. 1 deal with by a particular
process. 2 (as processed adj.) Treat (food, esp. To prevent decay) (processed
cheese). [latin: related to *proceed]
Procurer n. (fem. Procuress) person who obtains women for prostitution. [latin
*procurator]
Prod —v. (-dd-) 1 poke with a finger, stick, etc. 2 stimulate to action. 3 (foll. By
at) make a prodding motion. —n. 1 poke, thrust. 2 stimulus to action. [origin
unknown]
Produce —v. (-cing) 1 manufacture or prepare (goods etc.). 2 bring forward for
consideration, inspection, or use (will produce evidence). 3 bear, yield, or bring
into existence (offspring, fruit, a harvest, etc.). 4 cause or bring about (a reaction,
sensation, etc.). 5 geom. Extend or continue (a line). 6 supervise the production
of (a play, film, broadcast, record, etc.). —n. 1 a what is produced, esp.
Agricultural products collectively (dairy produce). B amount of this. 2 (often
foll. By of) result (of labour, efforts, etc.). producible adj. [latin duco duct-lead]
Producer n. 1 person who produces goods etc. 2 person who supervises the
production of a play, film, broadcast, etc.
Proficient adj. (often foll. By in, at) adept, expert. proficiency n. Proficiently
adv. [latin proficio -fect-advance]
Profile —n. 1 a outline, esp. Of a human face, as seen from one side. B
representation of this. 2 short biographical or character sketch. —v. (-ling)
represent or describe by a profile. keep a low profile remain inconspicuous.
[italian profilare draw in outline]
Profit —n. 1 advantage or benefit. 2 financial gain; excess of returns over outlay.
—v. (-t-) 1 (also absol.) Be beneficial to. 2 obtain advantage or benefit (profited
by the experience). at a profit with financial gain. [latin profectus: related to
*proficient]
Profit and loss account n. Account showing net profit or loss at any time.
Profiteer —v. Make or seek excessive profits, esp. Illegally or on the black
market. —n. Person who profiteers.
Profiterole n. Small hollow choux bun, usu. Filled with cream and covered with
chocolate. [french diminutive: related to *profit]
Pro forma —adv. & adj. As or being a matter of form. —n. (in full pro-forma
invoice) invoice sent in advance of goods supplied. [latin]
Profuse adj. 1 (often foll. By in, of) lavish; extravagant. 2 exuberantly plentiful;
copious (profuse variety). profusely adv. Profusion n. [latin fundo fus-pour]
Prognostic —n. 1 (often foll. By of) advance indication, esp. Of the course of a
disease. 2 prediction, forecast. —adj. (often foll. By of) foretelling, predictive.
[latin: related to *prognosis]
Projectile —n. 1 missile, esp. Fired by a rocket. 2 bullet, shell, etc. —adj. 1
capable of being projected by force, esp. From a gun. 2 projecting or impelling.
Prokaryote n. Organism in which the chromosomes are not separated from the
cytoplasm by a membrane; bacterium. [from *pro-2, karyo-from greek karuon
kernel, -ote as in *zygote]
Prolactin n. Hormone that stimulates milk production after childbirth. [from pro-
1, lactation]
Prolegomenon n. (pl. -mena) (usu. In pl.) Preface to a book etc., esp. When
critical or discursive. [greek lego say]
Proletarian —adj. Of the proletariat. —n. Member of the proletariat. [latin proles
offspring]
Prolific adj. 1 producing many offspring or much output. 2 (often foll. By of)
abundantly productive. 3 (often foll. By in) abounding, copious. prolifically adv.
[medieval latin: related to *proliferate]
Prolix adj. (of speech, writing, etc.) Lengthy; tedious. prolixity n. [latin]
Prologue n. 1 preliminary speech, poem, etc., esp. Of a play. 2 (usu. Foll. By to)
introductory event. [greek logos word]
Promenade —n. 1 paved public walk, esp. Along the sea front at a resort. 2 walk,
ride, or drive, taken esp. For display or pleasure. —v. (-ding) 1 make a
promenade (through). 2 lead (a person etc.) About, esp. For display. [french]
Promenade concert n. Concert with restricted seating and a large area for
standing.
Promethean adj. Daring or inventive. [prometheus, a mortal punished by the
greek gods for stealing fire]
Promise —n. 1 assurance that one will or will not undertake a certain action etc.
(promise of help). 2 sign of future achievements, good results, etc. (writer of
great promise). —v. (-sing) 1 (usu. Foll. By to + infin., or that + clause; also
absol.) Make a promise (promise not to be late). 2 (often foll. By to + infin.)
Seem likely (to) (promises to be a good book). 3 colloq. Assure (i promise you,
it will not be easy). promise well (or ill etc.) Hold out good (or bad etc.)
Prospects. [latin promissum from mitto miss-send]
Promised land n. (prec. By the) 1 bibl. Canaan (gen. 12:7 etc.). 2 any desired
place, esp. Heaven.
Promising adj. Likely to turn out well; hopeful, full of promise (promising start).
promisingly adv.
Promo n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 (often attrib.) Promotion, advertising (promo video). 2
promotional video, trailer, etc. [abbreviation]
Promontory n. (pl. -ies) point of high land jutting out into the sea etc.; headland.
[latin]
Promote v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. By to) raise (a person) to a higher office, rank,
etc. (promoted to captain). 2 help forward; encourage (a cause, process, etc.). 3
publicize and sell (a product). 4 chess raise (a pawn) to the rank of queen etc.
promotion n. Promotional adj. [latin promoveo -mot-]
Prompt —adj. Acting, made, or done with alacrity; ready (prompt reply). —adv.
Punctually (at six o’clock prompt). —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By to, or to + infin.) Incite;
urge (prompted them to action). 2 a (also absol.) Supply a forgotten word etc. To
(an actor etc.). B assist (a hesitating speaker) with a suggestion. 3 give rise to;
inspire (feeling, thought, action, etc.). —n. 1 a act of prompting. B thing said to
prompt an actor etc. C = *prompter. 2 computing sign on a vdu screen to show
that the system is waiting for input. promptitude n. Promptly adv. Promptness n.
[latin]
Prone adj. 1 a lying face downwards. B lying flat, prostrate. C having the front
part downwards, esp. The palm. 2 (usu. Foll. By to, or to + infin.) Disposed or
liable (prone to bite his nails). 3 (usu. In comb.) Likely to suffer (accident-
prone). proneness n. [latin]
Prong n. Each of two or more projecting pointed parts at the end of a fork etc.
[origin unknown]
Proofread v. (past and past part. -read) read and correct (printer’s proofs).
proofreader n.
Prop1 —n. 1 rigid, esp. Separate, support. 2 person or thing that supports,
comforts, etc. —v. (-pp-) (often foll. By against, up, etc.) Support with or as if
with a prop. [low german or dutch]
Propagate v. (-ting) 1 a breed (a plant, animal, etc.) From the parent stock. B
(refl. Or absol.) (of a plant, animal, etc.) Reproduce itself. 2 disseminate (a
belief, theory, etc.). 3 transmit (a vibration, earthquake, etc.). propagation n.
[latin propago]
Propel v. (-ll-) drive or push forward; urge on. propellant n. & adj. [latin pello
puls-drive]
Propeller n. Revolving shaft with blades, esp. For propelling a ship or aircraft.
Proper adj. 1 a accurate, correct (gave him the proper amount). B fit, suitable,
right (at the proper time). 2 decent; respectable, esp. Excessively so (not quite
proper). 3 (usu. Foll. By to) belonging or relating (respect proper to them). 4
(usu. Placed after the noun) strictly so called; genuine (this is the crypt, not the
cathedral proper). 5 colloq. Thorough; complete (a proper row). [latin proprius
one’s own]
Proper fraction n. Fraction less than unity, with the numerator less than the
denominator.
Proper noun n. (also proper name) capitalized name for an individual person,
place, animal, country, title, etc., e.g. ‘jane’, ‘everest’.
Property n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing(s) owned; possession, esp. A house, land, etc. (has
money in property). 2 attribute, quality, or characteristic (property of dissolving
grease). 3 movable object used on a theatre stage or in a film. [latin proprietas:
related to *proper]
Prophesy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (usu. Foll. By that, who, etc.) Foretell (an event etc.). 2
speak as a prophet; foretell the future. [french profecier: related to *prophecy]
Propitious adj. 1 (of an omen etc.) Favourable, auspicious. 2 (often foll. By for,
to) suitable, advantageous. [latin propitius]
Proposal n. 1 a act of proposing something. B course of action etc. Proposed. 2
offer of marriage.
Pros and cons n.pl. Reasons or considerations for and against a proposition etc.
Proscenium n. (pl. -s or -nia) part of the stage in front of the curtain and the
Proscenium n. (pl. -s or -nia) part of the stage in front of the curtain and the
enclosing arch. [greek: related to *scene]
Proselyte n. 1 person converted, esp. Recently, from one opinion, creed, party,
etc., to another. 2 convert to judaism. proselytism n. [latin proselytus from
greek]
Proselytize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (also absol.) Convert or seek to convert
from one belief etc. To another.
Prospect —n. 1 a (often in pl.) Expectation, esp. Of success in a career etc. (job
with no prospects). B something one expects (don’t relish the prospect of
meeting him). 2 extensive view of landscape etc. (striking prospect). 3 mental
picture. 4 possible or probable customer, subscriber, etc. —v. (usu. Foll. By for)
explore, search (esp. A region) for gold etc. prospector n. [latin: related to
*prospectus]
Prostate n. (in full prostate gland) gland round the neck of the bladder in male
mammals, releasing part of the semen. prostatic adj. [greek prostates one who
stands before]
Prosthesis n. (pl. -theses) 1 artificial leg etc; false tooth, breast, etc. 2 branch of
surgery dealing with prostheses. prosthetic adj. [greek, = placing in addition]
Prostitute —n. 1 woman who engages in sexual activity for payment. 2 (usu.
Male prostitute) man or boy who engages in sexual activity, esp. With
homosexual men, for payment. —v. (-ting) 1 (esp. Refl.) Make a prostitute of
(esp. Oneself). 2 misuse or offer (one’s talents, skills, name, etc.) For money etc.
prostitution n. [latin prostituo -tut-offer for sale]
Prosy adj. (-ier, -iest) tedious, commonplace, dull (prosy talk). prosily adv.
Prosiness n.
Protean adj. Variable, taking many forms; versatile. [proteus, greek sea-god who
took various shapes]
Protect v. 1 (often foll. By from, against) keep (a person, thing, etc.) Safe;
defend, guard. 2 shield (home industry) from competition with import duties.
[latin tego tect-cover]
Pro tempore adj. & adv. For the time being. [latin]
Proterozoic geol. —adj. Of the later part of the precambrian era. —n. This time.
[greek proteros former, zoe life]
Protestant —n. Member or follower of any of the churches separating from the
roman catholic church after the reformation. —adj. Of the protestant churches or
their members etc. protestantism n. [related to *protest]
Protrude v. (-ding) thrust forward; stick out; project. protrusion n. Protrusive adj.
[latin trudo trus-thrust]
Proud adj. 1 feeling greatly honoured or pleased (proud to know him). 2 a (often
foll. By of) haughty, arrogant (too proud to speak to us). B (often in comb.)
Having a proper pride; satisfied (house-proud; proud of a job well done). 3 (of
an occasion, action, etc.) Justly arousing or showing pride (proud day; proud
smile). 4 imposing, splendid. 5 (often foll. By of) slightly projecting (nail stood
proud of the plank). do proud colloq. Treat with lavish generosity or honour (did
us proud). proudly adv. [french prud valiant]
Prove v. (-ving; past part. Proved or proven) 1 (often foll. By that) demonstrate
the truth of by evidence or argument. 2 a (usu. Foll. By to + infin.) Be found (it
proved to be untrue). B emerge as (will prove the winner). 3 test the accuracy of
(a calculation). 4 establish the validity of (a will). 5 (of dough) rise in bread-
making. not proven (in scottish law) verdict that there is insufficient evidence to
establish guilt or innocence. Prove oneself show one’s abilities, courage, etc.
provable adj. [latin probo test, approve]
Usage the use of proven as the past participle is uncommon except in certain
expressions, such as of proven ability. It is, however, standard in scots and
american english.
Provenance n. Origin or place of origin; history. [french provenir from latin]
Proverb n. Short pithy saying in general use, held to embody a general truth.
[latin proverbium from verbum word]
Proviso n. (pl. -s) 1 stipulation. 2 clause containing this. provisory adj. [latin, = it
being provided]
Provocative adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By of) tending to provoke, esp. Anger or sexual
desire. 2 intentionally annoying or controversial. provocatively adv.
Provocativeness n.
Prowl —v. (often foll. By about, around) roam (a place) esp. Stealthily or
restlessly or in search of prey, plunder, etc. —n. Act of prowling. on the prowl
prowling. prowler n. [origin unknown]
Proximate adj. 1 nearest or next before or after (in place, order, time, causation,
thought process, etc.). 2 approximate. [latin proximus nearest]
Proximity n. Nearness in space, time, etc. (in close proximity). [latin: related to
*proximate]
Proximo adj. Commerce of next month (the third proximo). [latin, = in the next
(mense month)]
Prudent adj. Cautious; politic. prudence n. Prudently adv. [latin prudens -ent-:
Prudent adj. Cautious; politic. prudence n. Prudently adv. [latin prudens -ent-:
related to *provident]
Prune2 v. (-ning) 1 a (often foll. By down) trim (a bush etc.) By cutting away
dead or overgrown branches etc. B (usu. Foll. By off, away) lop (branches etc.)
Thus. 2 reduce (costs etc.) (prune expenses). 3 a (often foll. By of) clear or
remove superfluities from. B remove (superfluities). [french prooignier from
romanic: related to *round]
Prussian —adj. Of prussia, or esp. Its rigidly militaristic tradition. —n. Native of
prussia. [prussia, former german state]
Prussian blue n. & adj. (as adj. Often hyphenated) deep blue (pigment).
Pry v. (pries, pried) 1 (usu. Foll. By into) inquire impertinently. 2 (usu. Foll. By
into, about, etc.) Look or peer inquisitively. [origin unknown]
Ps abbr. Postscript.
Psalm n. 1 (also psalm) sacred song, esp. From the book of psalms, esp.
Metrically chanted in a service. 2 (the psalms or the book of psalms) old
testament book containing the psalms. [latin psalmus from greek]
Psalter n. 1 the book of psalms. 2 (psalter) version or copy of this. [old english
and french from greek psalterion stringed instrument]
Psaltery n. (pl. -ies) ancient and medieval instrument like a dulcimer but played
by plucking the strings. [latin: related to *psalter]
Pseud colloq. —adj. (esp. Intellectually) pretentious; not genuine. —n. Such a
person; poseur. [from *pseudo-]
Psoriasis n. Skin disease marked by red scaly patches. [greek psora itch]
Psych v. Colloq. 1 (usu. Foll. By up; often refl.) Prepare (oneself or another)
mentally for an ordeal etc. 2 (often foll. By out) intimidate or frighten (a person),
esp. For one’s own advantage. 3 (usu. Foll. By out) analyse (a person’s
motivation etc.) For one’s own advantage (can’t psych him out). [abbreviation]
Psychology n. (pl. -ies) 1 the study of the human mind. 2 treatise on or theory of
this. 3 a mental characteristics etc. Of a person or group. B mental aspects of an
activity, situation, etc. (psychology of crime). psychologist n.
Psychosis n. (pl. -choses) severe mental disorder with loss of contact with
reality. [greek: related to *psyche]
Pt symb. Platinum.
Pteridophyte n. Flowerless plant, e.g. Ferns, club-mosses, etc. [greek pteris fern]
Pterosaur n. Flying reptile with large batlike wings. [greek pteron wing, saura
lizard]
Ptolemaic system n. Theory that the earth is the stationary centre of the universe.
Pu symb. Plutonium.
Pubes1 n. (pl. Same) 1 lower part of the abdomen at the front of the pelvis. 2
colloq. Pubic hair. [latin]
Pubis n. (pl. Pubes) either of a pair of bones forming the two sides of the pelvis.
[latin os pubis bone of the *pubes1]
Public —adj. 1 of the people as a whole (public holiday). 2 open to or shared by
all (public baths). 3 done or existing openly (public apology). 4 (of a service,
funds, etc.) Provided by or concerning government (public money; public
records). 5 of or involved in the affairs, esp. The government or entertainment,
of the community (distinguished public career; public figures). —n. 1 (as sing.
Or pl.) Community, or members of it, in general. 2 specified section of the
community (reading public; my public). go public 1 become a public company. 2
reveal one’s plans etc. In public openly, publicly. publicly adv. [latin]
Public figure n. Famous person.
Public house n. Inn providing alcoholic drinks for consumption on the premises.
Public lending right n. Right of authors to payment when their books etc. Are
lent by public libraries.
Public prosecutor n. Law officer acting on behalf of the state or in the public
interest.
Public school n. 1 private fee-paying secondary school, esp. For boarders. 2 us,
austral., & scot. Non-fee-paying school.
Public transport n. Buses, trains, etc., charging set fares and running on fixed
routes.
Public works n.pl. Building operations etc. Done by or for the state.
Publish v. 1 (also absol.) Prepare and issue (a book, newspaper, etc.) For public
sale. 2 make generally known. 3 announce formally. [latin: related to *public]
Publisher n. Person or (esp.) Company that publishes books etc. For sale.
Pucker —v. (often foll. By up) gather into wrinkles, folds, or bulges (this seam is
puckered up). —n. Such a wrinkle, bulge, fold, etc. [origin unknown]
Puddle —n. 1 small pool, esp. Of rainwater. 2 clay and sand worked with water
used as a watertight covering for embankments etc. —v. (-ling) 1 knead (clay
and sand) into puddle. 2 stir (molten iron) to produce wrought iron by expelling
carbon. puddly adj. [old english]
Pudendum n. (pl. Pudenda) (usu. In pl.) Genitals, esp. Of a woman. [latin pudeo
be ashamed]
Pudgy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. (esp. Of a person) plump, podgy. pudginess n. [cf.
*podgy]
Puerile adj. Childish, immature. puerility n. (pl. -ies). [latin puer boy]
Puff —n. 1 a short quick blast of breath or wind. B sound of or like this. C small
quantity of vapour, smoke, etc., emitted in one blast (puff of smoke). 2 light
pastry cake containing jam, cream, etc. 3 gathered material in a dress etc. (puff
sleeve). 4 extravagantly enthusiastic review, advertisement, etc., esp. In a
newspaper. 5 = *powder-puff. —v. 1 emit a puff of air or breath; blow with short
blasts. 2 (usu. Foll. By away, out, etc.) Emit or move with puffs (puffing away at
his cigar; train puffed out). 3 (usu. In passive; often foll. By out) colloq. Put out
of breath (arrived puffed). 4 breathe hard; pant. 5 (usu. Foll. By up, out) inflate;
swell (his eye was puffed up). 6 (usu. Foll. By out, up, away) blow or emit (dust,
smoke, etc.) With a puff. 7 smoke (a pipe etc.) In puffs. 8 (usu. As puffed up
adj.) Elate; make proud or boastful. 9 advertise or promote with exaggerated or
false praise. puff up = sense 8 of v. [imitative]
Puff-adder n. Large venomous african viper which inflates the upper part of its
body.
body.
Puffin n. N. Atlantic and n. Pacific sea bird with a large head and brightly
coloured triangular bill. [origin unknown]
Puff pastry n. Leaved pastry made light and flaky by rolling and folding the
dough many times.
Puffy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 swollen, puffed out. 2 colloq. Short-winded. puffily adv.
Puffiness n.
Pug n. (in full pug-dog) dog of a dwarf breed with a broad flat nose and wrinkled
face. [origin unknown]
Pull —v. 1 exert force upon (a thing, person, etc.) To move it to oneself or the
origin of the force (pulled it nearer). 2 exert a pulling force (engine will not
pull). 3 extract (a cork or tooth) by pulling. 4 damage (a muscle etc.) By
abnormal strain. 5 a move (a boat) by pulling on the oars. B (of a boat etc.) Be
caused to move, esp. In a specified direction. 6 (often foll. By up) proceed with
effort (up a hill etc.). 7 (foll. By on) bring out (a weapon) for use against (a
person). 8 check the speed of (a horse), esp. To lose a race. 9 attract (custom or
support). 10 draw (liquor) from a barrel etc. 11 (foll. By at) tear or pluck at. 12
(often foll. By on, at) inhale or drink deeply; draw or suck (on a pipe etc.). 13
(often foll. By up) remove (a plant) by the root. 14 a cricket strike (the ball) to
the leg side. B golf strike (the ball) widely to the left. 15 print (a proof etc.). 16
slang succeed in attracting sexually. —n. 1 act of pulling. 2 force exerted by this.
3 influence; advantage. 4 attraction or attention-getter. 5 deep draught of liquor.
6 prolonged effort, e.g. In going up a hill. 7 handle etc. For applying a pull. 8
printer’s rough proof. 9 cricket & golf pulling stroke. 10 suck at a cigarette. pull
about 1 treat roughly. 2 pull from side to side. Pull apart (or to pieces) = take to
pieces (see *piece). Pull back (cause to) retreat. Pull down 1 demolish (esp. A
building). 2 humiliate. Pull a face distort the features, grimace. Pull a fast one
see *fast1. Pull in 1 (of a bus, train, etc.) Arrive to take passengers. 2 (of a
vehicle) move to the side of or off the road. 3 colloq. Earn or acquire. 4 colloq.
Arrest. Pull a person’s leg deceive playfully. Pull off 1 remove by pulling. 2
succeed in achieving or winning. Pull oneself together recover control of
oneself. Pull the other one colloq. Expressing disbelief (with ref. To pull a
person’s leg). Pull out 1 take out by pulling. 2 depart. 3 withdraw from an
undertaking. 4 (of a bus, train, etc.) Leave a station, stop, etc. 5 (of a vehicle)
move out from the side of the road, or to overtake. Pull over (of a vehicle) pull
in. Pull one’s punches avoid using one’s full force. Pull the plug on put an end to
(by withdrawing resources etc.). Pull rank take unfair advantage of one’s
seniority. Pull round (or through) (cause to) recover from an illness. Pull strings
exert (esp. Clandestine) influence. Pull together work in harmony. Pull up 1
(cause to) stop moving. 2 pull out of the ground. 3 reprimand. 4 check oneself.
Pull one’s weight (often refl.) Do one’s fair share of work. [old english]
Pullet n. Young hen, esp. One less than one year old. [latin pullus]
Pulley n. (pl. -s) 1 grooved wheel or wheels for a cord etc. To pass over, set in a
block and used for changing the direction of a force. 2 wheel or drum fixed on a
shaft and turned by a belt, used esp. To increase speed or power. [french polie:
related to *pole2]
Pullover n. Knitted garment put on over the head and covering the top half of the
body.
Pullulate v. (-ting) 1 (of a seed, shoot, etc.) Bud, sprout. 2 swarm, teem. 3
develop; spring up. 4 (foll. By with) abound. pullulation n. [latin pullulo sprout]
Pulmonary adj. 1 of the lungs. 2 having lungs or lunglike organs. 3 affected with
or susceptible to lung disease. [latin pulmo -onis lung]
Pulp —n. 1 soft fleshy part of fruit etc. 2 soft thick wet mass, esp. From rags,
wood, etc., used in paper-making. 3 (often attrib.) Cheap fiction etc., orig.
Printed on rough paper. —v. Reduce to or become pulp. pulpy adj. Pulpiness n.
[latin]
Pulpit n. 1 raised enclosed platform in a church etc. From which the preacher
delivers a sermon. 2 (prec. By the) preachers collectively; preaching. [latin
pulpitum platform]
Pulse1 —n. 1 a rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through
them, esp. In the wrists, temples, etc. B each beat of the arteries or heart. 2 throb
or thrill of life or emotion. 3 general feeling or opinion. 4 single vibration of
sound, electric current, light, etc., esp. As a signal. 5 rhythmical beat, esp. Of
music. —v. (-sing) pulsate. [latin pello puls-drive, beat]
Pulse2 n. (as sing. Or pl.) 1 edible seeds of various leguminous plants, e.g.
Chick-peas, lentils, beans, etc. 2 plant producing these. [latin puls]
Pumice n. (in full pumice-stone) 1 light porous volcanic rock used in cleaning or
polishing. 2 piece of this used for removing hard skin etc. [latin pumex pumic-]
Pummel v. (-ll-; us -l-) strike repeatedly, esp. With the fists. [from *pommel]
Pun —n. Humorous use of a word or words with two or more meanings; play on
words. —v. (-nn-) (foll. By on; also absol.) Make a pun or puns with (words).
[origin unknown]
Punch1 —v. 1 strike, esp. With a closed fist. 2 a pierce a hole in (metal, paper,
etc.) As or with a punch. B pierce (a hole) thus. —n. 1 blow with a fist. 2 ability
to deliver this. 3 colloq. Vigour, momentum; effective force. 4 tool, machine, or
device for punching holes or impressing a design in leather, metal, etc. puncher
n. [var. Of pounce emboss]
Punch2 n. Drink of wine or spirits mixed with water, fruit juices, spices, etc., and
usu. Served hot. [origin unknown]
Punch card n. (also punched card or tape) card etc. Perforated according to a
code, for conveying instructions or data to a data processor etc.
Punctuate v. (-ting) 1 insert punctuation marks in. 2 interrupt at intervals
(punctuated his tale with heavy sighs). [medieval latin: related to *punctual]
Punctuation mark n. Any of the marks (e.g. Full stop and comma) used in
writing to separate sentences etc. And clarify meaning.
Punjabi —n. (pl. -s) 1 native of punjab. 2 language of punjab. —adj. Of punjab,
its people, or language. [punjab, state in india and province in pakistan]
Punt2 —v. Kick (a ball, esp. In rugby) after it has dropped from the hands and
before it reaches the ground. —n. Such a kick. [origin unknown]
Punt3 v. 1 colloq. A bet on a horse etc. B speculate in shares etc. 2 (in some
card-games) lay a stake against the bank. [french ponter]
Puny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 undersized. 2 weak, feeble. [french puisné born
afterwards]
Pup —n. Young dog, wolf, rat, seal, etc. —v. (-pp-) (also absol.) (of a bitch etc.)
Bring forth (young). [from *puppy]
Pupa n. (pl. Pupae) insect in the stage between larva and imago. pupal adj. [latin,
= doll]
Pupil2 n. Dark circular opening in the centre of the iris of the eye. [related to
*pupil1]
Puppet state n. Country that is nominally independent but actually under the
control of another power.
Puppy n. (pl. -ies) 1 young dog. 2 conceited or arrogant young man. [french:
related to *poppet]
Purchase —v. (-sing) 1 buy. 2 (often foll. By with) obtain or achieve at some
cost. —n. 1 buying. 2 thing bought. 3 a firm hold to prevent slipping; leverage. B
device or tackle for moving heavy objects. 4 annual rent or return from land.
purchaser n. [anglo-french: related to pro-1, chase1]
Purée —n. Smooth pulp of vegetables or fruit etc. —v. (-ées, -éed) make a purée
of. [french]
Purgatory —n. (pl. -ies) 1 rc ch. Supposed place or state of expiation of petty
sins after death and before entering heaven. 2 place or state of temporary
suffering or expiation. —adj. Purifying. purgatorial adj. [medieval latin: related
to *purge]
Purge —v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By of, from) make physically or spiritually
clean. 2 remove by cleansing. 3 rid (an organization, party, etc.) Of unacceptable
members. 4 a empty (the bowels). B empty the bowels of (a person). 5 law atone
for (an offence, esp. Contempt of court). —n. 1 act of purging. 2 purgative. [latin
purgo purify]
Purify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 clear of extraneous elements; make pure. 2 (often foll. By
of, from) make ceremonially pure or clean. purification n. Purificatory adj.
Purifier n.
Purl1 —n. 1 knitting stitch made by putting the needle through the front of the
previous stitch and passing the yarn round the back of the needle. 2 chain of
minute loops decorating the edges of lace etc. —v. (also absol.) Knit with a purl
stitch. [origin unknown]
Purlieu n. (pl. -s) 1 person’s bounds, limits, or usual haunts. 2 hist. Tract on the
border of a forest. 3 (in pl.) Outskirts, outlying region. [anglo-french puralé from
aller go]
Purloin v. Formal or joc. Steal, pilfer. [anglo-french purloigner from loign far]
Purloin v. Formal or joc. Steal, pilfer. [anglo-french purloigner from loign far]
Purple —n. 1 colour between red and blue. 2 (in full tyrian purple) crimson dye
obtained from some molluscs. 3 purple robe, esp. Of an emperor or senior
magistrate. 4 scarlet official dress of a cardinal. 5 (prec. By the) position of rank,
authority, or privilege. —adj. Of a purple colour. —v. (-ling) make or become
purple. purplish adj. [greek porphura, a shellfish yielding dye]
Purr —v. 1 (of a cat) make a low vibratory sound expressing contentment. 2 (of
machinery etc.) Run smoothly and quietly. 3 (of a person) express pleasure; utter
purringly. —n. Purring sound. [imitative]
Purse —n. 1 small pouch for carrying money on the person. 2 us handbag. 3
money, funds. 4 sum as a present or prize in a contest. —v. (-sing) 1 (often foll.
By up) pucker or contract (the lips etc.). 2 become wrinkled. hold the purse-
strings have control of expenditure. [greek, = leather bag]
Purser n. Officer on a ship who keeps the accounts, esp. The head steward in a
passenger vessel.
Pursuance n. (foll. By of) carrying out or observance (of a plan, idea, etc.).
Pus n. Thick yellowish or greenish liquid produced from infected tissue. [latin
pus puris]
Pushchair n. Folding chair on wheels, for pushing a young child along in.
Pushing adj. 1 pushy. 2 predic. Colloq. Having nearly reached (a specified age).
Push-start —n. Starting of a vehicle by pushing it to turn the engine. —v. Start (a
vehicle) in this way.
Push-up n. = *press-up.
Push-up n. = *press-up.
Pushy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Excessively self-assertive. pushily adv. Pushiness
n.
Puss n. Colloq. 1 cat (esp. As a form of address). 2 sly or coquettish girl. [low
german or dutch]
Pussy n. (pl. -ies) 1 (also pussy-cat) colloq. Cat. 2 coarse slang vulva.
Put —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Put) 1 move to or cause to be in a specified
place or position (put it in your pocket; put the children to bed). 2 bring into a
specified condition or state (puts me in great difficulty). 3 (often foll. By on, to)
impose, enforce, assign, or apply (put a tax on beer; where do you put the
blame?; put a stop to it; put it to good use). 4 place (a person) or (refl.) Imagine
(oneself) in a specified position (put them at their ease; put yourself in my
shoes). 5 (foll. By for) substitute (one thing) for (another). 6 express in a
specified way (to put it mildly). 7 (foll. By at) estimate (an amount etc.) At so
much (put the cost at £50). 8 (foll. By into) express or translate in (words, or
another language). 9 (foll. By into) invest (money in an asset, e.g. Land). 10
(foll. By on) stake (money) on (a horse etc.). 11 (foll. By to) submit for attention
(put it to a vote). 12 throw (esp. A shot or weight) as a sport. 13 (foll. By back,
off, out to sea, etc.) (of a ship etc.) Proceed in a specified direction. —n. Throw
of the shot etc. put about 1 spread (information, a rumour, etc.). 2 naut. Turn
round; put (a ship) on the opposite tack. Put across 1 communicate (an idea etc.)
Effectively. 2 (often in put it (or one) across) achieve by deceit. Put away 1
restore (a thing) to its usual or former place. 2 lay (money etc.) Aside for future
use. 3 imprison or commit to a home etc.
Putative adj. Formal reputed, supposed (his putative father). [latin puto think]
Putt —v. (-tt-) strike (a golf ball) gently on a putting-green. —n. Putting stroke.
[from *put]
Puttee n. Hist. Long strip of cloth wound round the leg from ankle to knee for
protection and support, worn esp. By soldiers. [hindi]
Putter2 v. (brit. Potter) 1 (often foll. By about, around) work or occupy oneself
in a desultory manner. 2 go slowly, dawdle, loiter (pottered up to the pub). [dial.
Pote push]
Putty —n. Cement of whiting and linseed oil, used for fixing panes of glass,
filling holes, etc. —v. (-ies, -ied) cover, fix, join, or fill with putty. [french potée:
related to *pot1]
Pw abbr. Policewoman.
Pygmy n. (also pigmy) (pl. -ies) (often attrib.) 1 member of a dwarf people of
esp. Equatorial africa. 2 very small person, animal, or thing. 3 insignificant
person. [latin from greek]
Pyjamas n.pl. (us pajamas) 1 suit of loose trousers and jacket for sleeping in. 2
loose trousers worn by both sexes in some asian countries. 3 (pyjama) (attrib.)
loose trousers worn by both sexes in some asian countries. 3 (pyjama) (attrib.)
Of either part of a pair of pyjamas (pyjama jacket). [urdu, = leg-clothing]
Pylon n. Tall structure, esp. As a support for electric-power cables etc. [greek
pule gate]
Pyracantha n. Evergreen thorny shrub with white flowers and bright red or
yellow berries. [latin from greek]
Pyramid n. 1 monumental, esp. Stone, structure, with a square base and sloping
triangular sides meeting at an apex, esp. An ancient egyptian royal tomb. 2 solid
of this shape with esp. A square or triangular base. 3 pyramid-shaped thing or
pile of things. pyramidal adj. [greek puramis -mid-]
Pyramid selling n. System of selling goods in which agency rights are sold to an
increasing number of distributors at successively lower levels.
Pyre n. Heap of combustible material, esp. For burning a corpse. [greek: related
to *pyro-]
Pyrethrum n. 1 aromatic chrysanthemum. 2 insecticide from its dried flowers.
[latin from greek]
Pyrex n. Propr. Hard heat-resistant glass, used esp. For ovenware. [invented
word]
Pyrites n. (in full iron pyrites) lustrous yellow mineral that is a sulphide of iron.
[greek: related to *pyre]
Pyro-comb. Form 1 denoting fire. 2 denoting a mineral etc. Changed under the
action of heat, or fiery in colour. [greek pur fire]
Pyrrhic adj. (of a victory) won at too great a cost. [pyrrhus of epirus, who
defeated the romans in 279 bc, but suffered heavy losses]
Pyx n. Vessel for the consecrated bread of the eucharist. [greek puxis *box1]
Qm abbr. Quartermaster.
Qt abbr. Quart(s).
Quack1 —n. Harsh sound made by ducks. —v. Utter this sound. [imitative]
Quack2 n. 1 unqualified practitioner, esp. Of medicine; charlatan (often attrib.:
quack cure). 2 slang any doctor. quackery n. [abbreviation of quacksalver from
dutch: probably related to quack1, salve1]
Quadrate —adj. Esp. Anat. & zool. Square or rectangular. —n. Rectangular
object. —v. (-ting) make square. [latin quadro make square]
object. —v. (-ting) make square. [latin quadro make square]
Quadriplegia n. Paralysis of all four limbs. quadriplegic adj. & n. [from *quadri-,
greek plege a blow]
Quadruple —adj. 1 fourfold; having four parts. 2 (of time in music) having four
beats in a bar. —n. Fourfold number or amount. —v. (-ling) multiply by four.
[latin: related to *quadri-]
Quadruplet n. Each of four children born at one birth.
Quadruplicate —adj. 1 fourfold. 2 of which four copies are made. —v. (-ting)
multiply by four.
Quaff v. Literary 1 drink deeply. 2 drain (a cup etc.) In long draughts. quaffable
adj. [perhaps imitative]
Quail1 n. (pl. Same or -s) small game-bird related to the partridge. [french
quaille]
Quake —v. (-king) shake, tremble. —n. Colloq. Earthquake. [old english]
Qualify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often as qualified adj.) Make competent or fit for a
position or purpose. 2 make legally entitled. 3 (usu. Foll. By for) (of a person)
satisfy conditions or requirements. 4 modify or limit (a statement etc.) (qualified
approval). 5 gram. (of a word) attribute a quality to esp. A noun. 6 moderate,
mitigate; make less severe. 7 (foll. By as) be describable as, count as (a grunt
hardly qualifies as conversation). qualifier n. [latin qualis such as, of what kind]
Quango n. (pl. -s) semi-public body with financial support from and senior
appointments made by the government. [abbreviation of quasi (or quasi-
autonomous) non-government(al) organization]
autonomous) non-government(al) organization]
Quantum mechanics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) (also quantum theory) physics
theory assuming that energy exists in discrete units.
Quarry1 —n. (pl. -ies) place from which stone etc. May be extracted. —v. (-ies,
-ied) extract (stone) from a quarry. [latin quadrum square]
Quarry2 n. (pl. -ies) 1 intended victim or prey. 2 object of pursuit. [latin cor
heart]
Quart n. Liquid measure equal to a quarter of a gallon; two pints (0.946 litre).
[latin quartus fourth]
Quarter —n. 1 each of four equal parts into which a thing is divided. 2 period of
three months. 3 point of time 15 minutes before or after any hour. 4 a 25 us or
canadian cents. B coin for this. 5 part of a town, esp. As occupied by a particular
class (residential quarter). 6 a point of the compass. B region at this. 7 direction,
district, or source of supply (help from any quarter). 8 (in pl.) A lodgings. B
accommodation of troops etc. 9 a one fourth of a lunar month. B moon’s position
between the first and second (first quarter) or third and fourth (last quarter) of
these. 10 a each of the four parts into which a carcass is divided. B (in pl.) =
*hindquarters. 11 mercy towards an enemy etc. On condition of surrender. 12 a
grain measure equivalent to 8 bushels. B one-fourth of a hundredweight. C
colloq. One-fourth of a pound weight. 13 each of four divisions on a shield. —v.
1 divide into quarters. 2 hist. Divide (the body of an executed person) in this
way. 3 a put (troops etc.) Into quarters. B provide with lodgings. 4 heraldry place
(coats of arms) on the four quarters of a shield. [latin quartarius: related to
*quart]
Quarter day n. One of four days on which quarterly payments are due, tenancies
begin and end, etc.
Quarterdeck n. Part of a ship’s upper deck near the stern, usu. Reserved for
officers.
Quarter-final n. Match or round preceding the semifinal.
Quarter sessions n.pl. Hist. Court of limited criminal and civil jurisdiction, usu.
Held quarterly.
Quarterstaff n. Hist. Stout pole 6–8 feet long, formerly used as a weapon.
Quarto n. (pl. -s) 1 size of a book or page given by folding a sheet of standard
size twice to form four leaves. 2 book or sheet of this size. [latin: related to
*quart]
Quartz n. Silica in various mineral forms. [german from slavonic]
Quaternary —adj. 1 having four parts. 2 (quaternary) geol. Of the most recent
period in the cenozoic era. —n. (quaternary) geol. This period. [latin quaterni
four each]
Quattrocento n. 15th-c. Italian art. [italian, = 400, used for the years 1400–99]
Quaver —v. 1 (esp. Of a voice or sound) vibrate, shake, tremble. 2 sing or say
Quaver —v. 1 (esp. Of a voice or sound) vibrate, shake, tremble. 2 sing or say
with a quavering voice. —n. 1 mus. Note half as long as a crotchet. 2 trill in
singing. 3 tremble in speech. quavery adj. [probably imitative]
Queasy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a (of a person) nauseous. B (of the stomach) easily
upset, weak of digestion. 2 (of the conscience etc.) Overscrupulous. queasily
adv. Queasiness n. [origin uncertain]
Queen —n. 1 (as a title usu. Queen) female sovereign. 2 (in full queen consort)
king’s wife. 3 woman, country, or thing pre-eminent of its kind. 4 fertile female
among ants, bees, etc. 5 most powerful piece in chess. 6 court-card depicting a
queen. 7 (the queen) national anthem when the sovereign is female. 8 slang
offens. Male homosexual. 9 belle or mock sovereign for some event (queen of
the may). —v. Chess convert (a pawn) into a queen when it reaches the
opponent’s side of the board. queenly adj. (-ier, -iest). Queenliness n. [old
english]
Queen bee n. 1 fertile female bee. 2 woman who behaves as if she is the most
important person in a group.
Queen-post n. Either of two upright timbers between the tie-beam and main
rafters of a roof-truss.
Queensberry rules n.pl. Standard rules, esp. Of boxing. [from the name marquis
of queensberry]
Queen’s guide n. Guide who has reached the highest rank of proficiency.
Queen’s proctor n. Official who has the right to intervene in probate, divorce,
and nullity cases when collusion or the suppression of facts is alleged.
Queen’s scout n. Scout who has reached the highest standard of proficiency.
Quell v. 1 crush or put down (a rebellion etc.). 2 suppress (fear etc.). [old
english]
Query —n. (pl. -ies) 1 question. 2 question mark or the word query as a mark of
interrogation. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 ask or inquire. 2 call in question. 3 dispute the
accuracy of. [latin quaere imperative of quaero inquire]
Quest —n. 1 search or seeking. 2 thing sought, esp. By a medieval knight. —v.
(often foll. By about) go about in search of something (esp. Of dogs seeking
game). [latin quaero quaesit-seek]
game). [latin quaero quaesit-seek]
Queue —n. Line or sequence of persons, vehicles, etc. Waiting their turn. —v.
(queues, queued, queuing or queueing) (often foll. By up) form or join a queue.
[latin cauda tail]
Quick —adj. 1 taking only a short time (quick worker). 2 arriving after a short
time, prompt. 3 with only a short interval (in quick succession). 4 lively,
intelligent, alert. 5 (of a temper) easily roused. 6 archaic alive (the quick and the
dead). —adv. (also as int.) Quickly. —n. 1 soft sensitive flesh, esp. Below the
nails. 2 seat of emotion (cut to the quick). quickly adv. [old english]
Quicken v. 1 make or become quicker; accelerate. 2 give life or vigour to; rouse.
3 a (of a woman) reach a stage in pregnancy when movements of the foetus can
be felt. B (of a foetus) begin to show signs of life.
Quicklime n. = *lime1.
Quick one n. Colloq. Drink (usu. Alcoholic) taken quickly.
Quicksand n. (often in pl.) 1 area of loose wet sand that sucks in anything placed
on it. 2 treacherous situation etc.
Quickset —attrib. Adj. (of a hedge etc.) Formed of cuttings, esp. Hawthorn. —n.
Hedge formed in this way.
Quicksilver n. Mercury.
Quid1 n. (pl. Same) slang one pound sterling. quids in slang in a position of
profit. [probably from latin quid what]
Quid pro quo n. (pl. Quid pro quos) return made (for a gift, favour, etc.). [latin, =
something for something]
Quietus n. Release from life; death, final riddance (will get its quietus).
[medieval latin: related to *quiet]
Quiff n. 1 man’s tuft of hair, brushed upward over the forehead. 2 curl plastered
down on the forehead. [origin unknown]
Quill n. 1 (in full quill-feather) large feather in a wing or tail. 2 hollow stem of
this. 3 (in full quill pen) pen made of a quill. 4 (usu. In pl.) Porcupine’s spine.
[probably low german quiele]
Quilt —n. Coverlet, esp. Of quilted material. —v. Line a coverlet or garment
with padding enclosed between layers of cloth by lines of stitching. quilter n.
Quilting n. [latin culcita cushion]
Quince n. 1 acid pear-shaped fruit used in jams etc. 2 tree bearing this.
[originally a plural, from french cooin, from cydonia in crete]
Quincunx n. Five objects, esp. Trees, at the corners and centre of a square or
rectangle. [latin, = five-twelfths]
Quinine n. Bitter drug obtained from cinchona bark, used as a tonic and to
reduce fever. [spanish quina cinchona bark, from quechua kina bark]
Quinquagesima n. Sunday before lent. [latin quinquagesimus fiftieth]
Quinquereme n. Ancient roman galley with five files of oarsmen on each side.
[latin quinque five, remus oar]
Quintessence n. 1 (usu. Foll. By of) purest and most perfect form, manifestation,
or embodiment of a quality etc. 2 highly refined extract. quintessential adj.
Quintessentially adv. [latin quinta essentia fifth substance (underlying the four
elements)]
Quintuple —adj. Fivefold; having five parts. —n. Fivefold number or amount.
—v. (-ling) multiply by five. [latin quintus fifth]
Quintuplicate —adj. 1 fivefold. 2 of which five copies are made. —v. (-ting)
multiply by five.
Quip —n. Clever saying; epigram. —v. (-pp-) make quips. [perhaps from latin
quippe forsooth]
quippe forsooth]
Quirk n. 1 peculiar feature, peculiarity. 2 trick of fate. quirky adj. (-ier, -iest).
[origin unknown]
Quit —v. (-tting; past and past part. Quitted or quit) 1 (also absol.) Give up, let
go, abandon (a task etc.). 2 us cease, stop (quit grumbling). 3 leave or depart
from. —predic. Adj. (foll. By of) rid of (glad to be quit of the problem). [latin:
related to *quiet]
Quite adv. 1 completely, entirely, wholly. 2 to some extent, rather. 3 (often foll.
By so) said to indicate agreement. quite a (or some) remarkable or outstanding
(thing). Quite a few colloq. A fairly large number of. Quite something colloq.
Remarkable thing or person. [var. Of *quit]
Quiver1 —v. Tremble or vibrate with a slight rapid motion. —n. Quivering
motion or sound. [obsolete quiver nimble]
Quoit n. 1 ring thrown to encircle an iron peg. 2 (in pl.) Game using these.
[origin unknown]
Quondam attrib. Adj. That once was, sometime, former. [latin adv., = formerly]
Quondam attrib. Adj. That once was, sometime, former. [latin adv., = formerly]
Quotation marks n.pl. Inverted commas (‘’ or “ ”) used at the beginning and end
of a quotation etc.
Quote —v. (-ting) 1 cite or appeal to (an author, book, etc.) In confirmation of
some view. 2 a repeat or copy out a passage from. B (foll. By from) cite (an
author, book, etc.). 3 (foll. By as) cite (an author etc.) As proof, evidence, etc. 4
a enclose (words) in quotation marks. B (as int.) Verbal formula indicating
opening quotation marks (he said, quote, ‘i shall stay’). 5 (often foll. By at, also
absol.) State the price of. —n. Colloq. 1 passage quoted. 2 price quoted. 3 (usu.
In pl.) Quotation marks. [latin quoto mark with numbers]
Quoth v. (only in 1st and 3rd person) archaic said. [old english]
R2 abbr. (also r.) 1 regina (elizabeth r). 2 rex. 3 river. 4 (also ®) registered as a
trademark. 5 chess rook.
Ra symb. Radium.
Rabbet —n. Step-shaped channel cut along the edge or face of a length of wood
etc., usu. To receive the edge or tongue of another piece. —v. (-t-) 1 join or fix
with a rabbet. 2 make a rabbet in. [french rab(b)at: related to *rebate1]
Rabbi n. (pl. -s) 1 jewish scholar or teacher, esp. Of the law. 2 jewish religious
leader. rabbinical adj. [hebrew, = my master]
Rabbit punch n. Short chop with the edge of the hand to the nape of the neck.
Rabbit punch n. Short chop with the edge of the hand to the nape of the neck.
Rabble-rouser n. Person who stirs up the rabble or a crowd, esp. To agitate for
social change.
Rabelaisian adj. 1 of or like the french satirist rabelais or his writings. 2 marked
by exuberant imagination and coarse humour.
Rabid adj. 1 affected with rabies, mad. 2 violent, fanatical. rabidity n. [latin rabio
rave]
Race1 —n. 1 contest of speed between runners, horses, vehicles, ships, etc. 2 (in
pl.) Series of these for horses, dogs, etc., at a fixed time on a regular course. 3
contest between persons to be first to achieve something. 4 a strong current in
the sea or a river. B channel (mill-race). —v. (-cing) 1 take part in a race. 2 have
a race with. 3 try to surpass in speed. 4 (foll. By with) compete in speed with. 5
cause to race. 6 a go at full or excessive speed. B cause to do this. 7 (usu. As
racing adj.) Follow or take part in horse-racing (a racing man). [old norse]
Raceme n. Flower cluster with separate flowers attached by short stalks at equal
distances along the stem. [latin racemus grape-bunch]
Race relations n.pl. Relations between members of different races in the same
country.
Rack1 —n. 1 framework, usu. With rails, bars, etc., for holding things. 2 cogged
or toothed bar or rail engaging with a wheel or pinion etc. 3 hist. Instrument of
torture stretching the victim’s joints. —v. 1 (of disease or pain) inflict suffering
on. 2 hist. Torture (a person) on the rack. 3 place in or on a rack. 4 shake
violently. 5 injure by straining. on the rack suffering acute mental or physical
pain. Rack one’s brains make a great mental effort. [low german or dutch]
Rack3 v. (often foll. By off) draw off (wine, beer, etc.) From the lees. [provençal
Rack3 v. (often foll. By off) draw off (wine, beer, etc.) From the lees. [provençal
arracar from raca stems and husks of grapes, dregs]
Racket1 n. (also racquet) 1 bat with a round or oval frame strung with catgut,
nylon, etc., used in tennis, squash, etc. 2 (in pl.) Game like squash, played in a
court of four plain walls. [french raquette from arabic rahat palm of the hand]
Racket2 n. 1 disturbance, uproar, din. 2 slang a scheme for obtaining money etc.
By dishonest means. B dodge; sly game. 3 colloq. Line of business. [perhaps
imitative]
Racoon n. (also raccoon) (pl. Same or -s) 1 n. American mammal with a bushy
tail and sharp snout. 2 its fur. [algonquian]
Racy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 lively and vigorous in style. 2 risqué. 3 of distinctive
quality (a racy wine). raciness n. [from *race2]
Raddle —n. Red ochre. —v. (-ling) 1 colour with raddle or too much rouge. 2
(as raddled adj.) Worn out. [related to *ruddy]
Radian n. Si unit of angle, equal to an angle at the centre of a circle the arc of
which is equal in length to the radius (1 radian is approx. 57°).
Radiant —adj. 1 emitting rays of light. 2 (of eyes or looks) beaming with joy,
hope, or love. 3 (of beauty) splendid or dazzling. 4 (of light) issuing in rays. —n.
Point or object from which light or heat radiates. radiance n. Radiantly adv.
Radiate —v. (-ting) 1 a emit rays of light, heat, etc. B (of light or heat) be
emitted in rays. 2 emit (light, heat, etc.) From a centre. 3 transmit or demonstrate
(joy etc.). 4 diverge or spread from a centre. —adj. Having divergent rays or
parts radially arranged.
Radiator n. 1 device for heating a room etc., consisting of a metal case through
which hot water or steam circulates. 2 engine-cooling device in a motor vehicle
or aircraft.
Radicle n. Part of a plant embryo that develops into the primary root; rootlet.
[latin: related to *radix]
Radio —n. (pl. -s) 1 (often attrib.) A transmission and reception of sound
messages etc. By electromagnetic waves of radio frequency. B apparatus for
receiving, broadcasting, or transmitting radio signals. 2 a sound broadcasting
(prefers the radio). B broadcasting station or channel (radio one). —v. (-es, -ed)
1 a send (a message) by radio. B send a message to (a person) by radio. 2
communicate or broadcast by radio. [short for radio-telegraphy etc.]
Radio-controlled adj. Controlled from a distance by radio.
Radiology n. The study of x-rays and other high-energy radiation, esp. As used
in medicine. radiologist n.
Radish n. 1 plant with a fleshy pungent root. 2 this root, eaten esp. Raw. [latin
*radix]
Radius n. (pl. Radii or radiuses) 1 a straight line from the centre to the
circumference of a circle or sphere. B length of this. 2 distance from a centre
(within a radius of 20 miles). 3 a thicker and shorter of the two bones in the
human forearm. B corresponding bone in a vertebrate’s foreleg or a bird’s wing.
[latin]
Raffia n. 1 palm-tree native to madagascar. 2 fibre from its leaves, used for
weaving and for tying plants etc. [malagasy]
Raffle —n. Fund-raising lottery with prizes. —v. (-ling) (often foll. By off) sell
by means of a raffle. [french raf(f)le, a dice-game]
Raft n. Flat floating structure of timber or other materials for conveying persons
or things. [old norse]
Rafter n. Each of the sloping beams forming the framework of a roof. [old
english]
Rag1 n. 1 torn, frayed, or worn piece of woven material. 2 (in pl.) Old or worn
clothes. 3 (collect.) Scraps of cloth used as material for paper, stuffing, etc. 4
derog. Newspaper. in rags much torn. Rags to riches poverty to affluence.
[probably a back-formation from *ragged]
Rag3 n. Ragtime composition. [abbreviation]
Rage —n. 1 fierce or violent anger. 2 fit of this. 3 violent action of a natural
force. —v. (-ging) 1 be full of anger. 2 (often foll. By at, against) speak furiously
or madly. 3 (of wind, battle, etc.) Be violent; be at its height. 4 (as raging adj.)
Extreme, very painful (raging thirst; raging headache). all the rage very popular,
fashionable. [latin *rabies]
Ragged adj. 1 torn; frayed. 2 in ragged clothes. 3 with a broken or jagged outline
or surface. 4 faulty, imperfect; lacking finish, smoothness, or uniformity. [old
norse]
Raglan —adj. (of a sleeve) running up to the neck of a garment. —n. (often
attrib.) Overcoat without shoulder seams, the sleeves running up to the neck.
[lord raglan]
Ragout n. Meat stewed with vegetables and highly seasoned. [french]
Ragtag n. (in full ragtag and bobtail) derog. Rabble or common people. [from
*rag1]
Ragtime n. Form of highly syncopated early jazz, esp. For the piano.
Rail1 —n. 1 level or sloping bar or series of bars: a used to hang things on. B as
the top of banisters. C forming part of a fence or barrier as protection. 2 steel bar
or continuous line of bars laid on the ground, usu. As a railway. 3 (often attrib.)
Railway. —v. 1 furnish with a rail or rails. 2 (usu. Foll. By in, off) enclose with
rails. off the rails disorganized; out of order; deranged. [french reille from latin
regula *rule]
Rail2 v. (often foll. By at, against) complain or protest strongly; rant. [french
railler]
Railman n. = *railwayman.
Railroad —n. Esp. Us = *railway. —v. (often foll. By into, through, etc.)
Coerce; rush (railroaded into agreeing; railroaded through the cabinet).
Railway n. 1 track or set of tracks of steel rails upon which trains run. 2 such a
system worked by a single company. 3 organization and personnel required for
its working.
Rainbow —n. Arch of colours formed in the sky by reflection, refraction, and
dispersion of the sun’s rays in falling rain or in spray or mist. —adj. Many-
coloured. [old english: related to *rain, *bow1]
Rain check n. Esp. Us ticket given for later use when an outdoor event is
interrupted or postponed by rain. take a rain check on reserve the right not to
take up (an offer) until convenient.
Rainfall n. 1 fall of rain. 2 quantity of rain falling within a given area in a given
time.
Rainproof adj. Impervious to rain.
Rainy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of weather, a climate, day, etc.) In or on which rain is
falling or much rain usually falls. [old english: related to *rain]
Raise —v. (-sing) 1 put or take into a higher position. 2 (often foll. By up) cause
to rise or stand up or be vertical. 3 increase the amount, value, or strength of. 4
(often foll. By up) construct or build up. 5 levy, collect, or bring together (raise
money). 6 cause to be heard or considered (raise an objection). 7 set going or
bring into being (raise hopes). 8 bring up, educate. 9 breed, grow. 10 promote to
a higher rank. 11 (foll. By to) multiply a quantity to a power. 12 cause (bread) to
rise. 13 cards bet more than (another player). 14 end (a siege etc.). 15 remove (a
barrier etc.). 16 cause (a ghost etc.) To appear. 17 colloq. Get hold of, find. 18
rouse from sleep or death, or from a lair. —n. 1 cards increase in a stake or bid. 2
esp. Us increase in salary. raise cain colloq. = raise the roof. Raise one’s
eyebrows see *eyebrow. Raise from the dead restore to life. Raise a laugh cause
others to laugh. Raise the roof be very angry; cause an uproar. [old norse]
Raison d’être n. (pl. Raisons d’être pronunc. Same) purpose or reason that
accounts for, justifies, or originally caused a thing’s existence. [french]
Raja n. (also rajah) hist. 1 indian king or prince. 2 petty dignitary or noble in
india. [hindi from sanskrit]
Rake1 —n. 1 implement consisting of a pole with a toothed crossbar at the end
for drawing together hay etc. Or smoothing loose soil or gravel. 2 similar
implement used (e.g.) To draw in money at a gaming-table. —v. (-king) 1 collect
or gather with or as with a rake. 2 make tidy or smooth with a rake. 3 use a rake.
4 search thoroughly, ransack. 5 direct gunfire along (a line) from end to end. 6
scratch or scrape. rake in colloq. Amass (profits etc.). Rake up revive the
(unwelcome) memory of. [old english]
Rake3 —v. (-king) 1 set or be set at a sloping angle. 2 (of a mast or funnel)
incline from the perpendicular towards the stern. —n. 1 raking position or build.
2 amount by which a thing rakes. [origin unknown]
Rallentando mus. —adv. & adj. With a gradual decrease of speed. —n. (pl. -s or
-di) passage to be performed in this way. [italian]
Rally1 —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By round) bring or come together as support
or for action. 2 bring or come together again after a rout or dispersion. 3 recover
after illness etc., revive. 4 revive (courage etc.). 5 (of share-prices etc.) Increase
after a fall. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 rallying or being rallied. 2 mass meeting of
supporters or persons with a common interest. 3 competition for motor vehicles,
mainly over public roads. 4 (in tennis etc.) Extended exchange of strokes.
[french rallier: related to re-, ally]
Ram —n. 1 uncastrated male sheep. 2 (the ram) zodiacal sign or constellation
aries. 3 hist. = *battering-ram. 4 falling weight of a pile-driving machine. 5
hydraulically operated water pump. —v. (-mm-) 1 force or squeeze into place by
pressure. 2 (usu. Foll. By down, in, etc.) Beat down or drive in by heavy blows.
3 (of a ship, vehicle, etc.) Strike violently, crash against. 4 (foll. By against, into)
dash or violently impel. [old english]
Ramadan n. Ninth month of the muslim year, with strict fasting from sunrise to
sunset. [arabic]
Ramble —v. (-ling) 1 walk for pleasure. 2 talk or write incoherently. —n. Walk
taken for pleasure. [dutch rammelen]
Rambutan n. 1 red plum-sized prickly fruit. 2 e. Indian tree bearing this. [malay]
Ramekin n. 1 small dish for baking and serving an individual portion of food. 2
food served in this. [french ramequin]
Ramp —n. 1 slope, esp. Joining two levels of ground, floor, etc. 2 movable stairs
for entering or leaving an aircraft. 3 transverse ridge in a road making vehicles
slow down. —v. 1 furnish or build with a ramp. 2 a assume a threatening
posture. B (often foll. By about) storm, rage. [french ramper crawl]
Rampage —v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By about) rush wildly or violently about. 2
rage, storm. —n. Wild or violent behaviour. on the rampage rampaging. [perhaps
from *ramp]
Rampart n. 1 a defensive wall with a broad top and usu. A stone parapet. B
walkway on top of this. 2 defence, protection. [french remparer fortify]
Rancid adj. Smelling or tasting like rank stale fat. rancidity n. [latin rancidus
stinking]
Rancour n. (us rancor) inveterate bitterness, malignant hate. rancorous adj. [latin
rancor: related to *rancid]
Rand n. Chief monetary unit of south africa. [the rand, gold-field district near
johannesburg]
Random adj. Made, done, etc., without method or conscious choice. at random
without a particular aim. randomize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). Randomization
n. Randomly adv. Randomness n. [french randon from randir gallop]
Random-access adj. Computing (of a memory or file) having all parts directly
accessible, so that it need not read sequentially.
Randy adj. (-ier, -iest) eager for sexual gratification, lustful. randily adv.
Randiness n. [perhaps related to *rant]
Ranee n. (also rani) (pl. -s) hist. Raja’s wife or widow. [hindi]
Rank2 adj. 1 luxuriant, coarse; choked with or apt to produce weeds or excessive
foliage. 2 a foul-smelling. B loathsome, corrupt. 3 flagrant, virulent, gross,
complete (rank outsider). [old english]
Rankle v. (-ling) (of envy, disappointment, etc., or their cause) cause persistent
annoyance or resentment. [french (d)rancler fester, from medieval latin
dra(cu)nculus little serpent]
Ranunculus n. (pl. -luses or -li) plant of the genus including buttercups. [latin,
Ranunculus n. (pl. -luses or -li) plant of the genus including buttercups. [latin,
diminutive of rana frog]
Rap1 —n. 1 smart slight blow. 2 knock, sharp tapping sound. 3 slang blame,
punishment. 4 a rhythmic monologue recited to music. B (in full rap music) style
of rock music with words recited. —v. (-pp-) 1 strike smartly. 2 knock; make a
sharp tapping sound. 3 criticize adversely. 4 perform a rap. take the rap suffer
the consequences. rapper n. [probably imitative]
Rap2 n. Small amount, the least bit (don’t care a rap). [irish ropaire counterfeit
coin]
Rape1 —n. 1 a act of forcing a woman or girl to have sexual intercourse against
her will. B forcible sodomy. 2 (often foll. By of) violent assault or plunder,
forcible interference. —v. (-ping) commit rape on. [latin rapio seize]
Rape2 n. Plant grown as fodder, and for its seed from which oil is extracted.
[latin rapum, rapa turnip]
Rapid —adj. (-er, -est) 1 quick, swift. 2 acting or completed in a short time. 3 (of
a slope) descending steeply. —n. (usu. In pl.) Steep descent in a river-bed, with a
swift current. rapidity n. Rapidly adv. Rapidness n. [latin: related to *rape1]
Rapid eye movement n. Type of jerky movement of the eyes during dreaming.
Rapier n. 1 light slender sword for thrusting. 2 (attrib.) Sharp (rapier wit).
[french rapière]
Rapt adj. 1 fully absorbed or intent, enraptured. 2 carried away with feeling or
lofty thought. [latin raptus: related to *rape1]
Rare2 adj. (rarer, rarest) (of meat) cooked so that the inside is still red and juicy;
underdone. [old english]
Rarefy v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make or become less dense or solid. 2 purify or refine (a
person’s nature etc.). 3 make (an idea etc.) Subtle. rarefaction n. [french or
medieval latin: related to *rare1]
Raring adj. Colloq. Enthusiastic, eager (raring to go). [participle of rare, dial.
Var. Of roar or rear2]
Rase var. Of *raze.
Rash1 adj. Reckless, impetuous, hasty. rashly adv. Rashness n. [probably old
english]
Rash2 n. 1 eruption of the skin in spots or patches. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) sudden
widespread phenomenon (rash of strikes). [origin uncertain]
Rasp —n. 1 coarse kind of file having separate teeth. 2 grating noise or
utterance. —v. 1 a scrape with a rasp. B scrape roughly. C (foll. By off, away)
remove by scraping. 2 a make a grating sound. B say gratingly. 3 grate upon (a
person or feelings). [french raspe(r)]
Rastafarian (also rasta) —n. Member of a jamaican sect, often having dreadlocks
and regarding haile selassie of ethiopia as god. —adj. Of this sect. [ras tafari,
title of former emperor haile selassie]
Rat —n. 1 a rodent like a large mouse. B similar rodent (muskrat; water-rat). 2
turncoat. 3 colloq. Unpleasant or treacherous person. 4 (in pl.) Slang
exclamation of annoyance etc. —v. (-tt-) 1 hunt or kill rats. 2 (also foll. By on)
inform (on); desert, betray. [old english]
Ratchet n. 1 set of teeth on the edge of a bar or wheel with a catch ensuring
motion in one direction only. 2 (in full ratchet-wheel) wheel with a rim so
toothed. [french rochet lance-head]
Rate1 —n. 1 numerical proportion between two sets of things (moving at a rate
of 50 m.p.h.) Or as the basis of calculating an amount or value (rate of interest).
2 fixed or appropriate charge, cost, or value; measure of this (postal rates; the
rate for the job). 3 pace of movement or change (prices increasing at a great
rate). 4 (in comb.) Class or rank (first-rate). 5 (in pl.) Tax levied by local
authorities on businesses (and formerly on private individuals) according to the
value of buildings and land occupied. —v. (-ting) 1 a estimate the worth or value
of. B assign a value to. 2 consider, regard as. 3 (foll. By as) rank or be
considered. 4 a subject to the payment of a local rate. B value for the purpose of
assessing rates. 5 be worthy of, deserve. at any rate in any case, whatever
happens. At this rate if this example is typical. [latin rata: related to *ratio]
Rather adv. 1 by preference (would rather not go). 2 (usu. Foll. By than) more
truly; as a more likely alternative (is stupid rather than dishonest). 3 more
precisely (a book, or rather, a pamphlet). 4 slightly, to some extent (became
rather drunk). 5 (as an emphatic response) assuredly (did you like it? – rather!).
had rather would rather. [old english comparative of rathe early]
Ratify v. (-ies, -ied) confirm or accept (an agreement made in one’s name) by
formal consent, signature, etc. ratification n. [medieval latin: related to *rate1]
Ratio n. (pl. -s) quantitative relation between two similar magnitudes expressed
as the number of times one contains the other (in the ratio of three to two). [latin
reor rat-reckon]
Rationalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (often foll. By away) offer a rational
but specious explanation of (one’s behaviour or attitude). 2 make logical and
but specious explanation of (one’s behaviour or attitude). 2 make logical and
consistent. 3 make (a business etc.) More efficient by reorganizing it to reduce or
eliminate waste. rationalization n.
Ratline n. (also ratlin) (usu. In pl.) Any of the small lines fastened across a
sailing-ship’s shrouds like ladder-rungs. [origin unknown]
Rat race n. Colloq. Fiercely competitive struggle for position, power, etc.
Rattan n. 1 climbing palm with long thin jointed pliable stems, used for furniture
etc. 2 piece of rattan stem used as a walking-stick etc. [malay]
Rattle —v. (-ling) 1 a give out a rapid succession of short sharp hard sounds. B
cause to do this. C cause such sounds by shaking something. 2 (often foll. By
along) a move with a rattling noise. B move or travel briskly. 3 a (usu. Foll. By
off) say or recite rapidly. B (usu. Foll. By on) talk in a lively thoughtless way. 4
colloq. Disconcert, alarm. —n. 1 rattling sound. 2 device or plaything made to
rattle. rattly adj. [probably low german or dutch]
Rattling —adj. 1 that rattles. 2 brisk, vigorous (rattling pace). —adv. Colloq.
Remarkably (rattling good story).
Ratty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 relating to or infested with rats. 2 colloq. Irritable, bad-
tempered. rattily adv. Rattiness n.
Raunchy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Coarse, earthy, sexually boisterous. raunchily
adv. Raunchiness n. [origin unknown]
Ravage —v. (-ging) devastate, plunder. —n. 1 devastation. 2 (usu. In pl.; foll.
By of) destructive effect. [french alteration from ravine rush of water]
Ravel v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 entangle or become entangled. 2 fray out. 3 (often foll. By
out) disentangle, unravel, separate into threads. [probably dutch ravelen]
Raven —n. Large glossy blue-black crow with a hoarse cry. —adj. Glossy black.
[old english]
[old english]
Ravening adj. Hungrily seeking prey; voracious. [french raviner from latin:
related to *rapine]
Raving —n. (usu. In pl.) Wild or delirious talk. —adj. & adv. Colloq. As an
intensifier (a raving beauty; raving mad).
Ray1 n. 1 single line or narrow beam of light from a small or distant source. 2
straight line in which radiation travels to a given point. 3 (in pl.) Radiation of a
specified type (x-rays). 4 trace or beginning of an enlightening or cheering
influence (ray of hope). 5 any of a set of radiating lines, parts, or things. 6
marginal floret of a composite flower, e.g. A daisy. [latin *radius]
Ray2 n. Large edible marine fish with a flat body and a long slender tail. [latin
raia]
Ray3 n. (also re) mus. Second note of a major scale. [latin resonare, word
arbitrarily taken]
arbitrarily taken]
Raze v. (also rase) (-zing or -sing) completely destroy; tear down (esp. Raze to
the ground). [latin rado ras-scrape]
Razor n. Instrument with a sharp blade used in cutting hair, esp. Shaving. [french
rasor: related to *raze]
Razor-blade n. Flat piece of metal with a sharp edge, used in a safety razor.
Rb symb. Rubidium.
Re symb. Rhenium.
Re1 prep. 1 in the matter of (as the first word in a heading). 2 commerce about,
concerning (in letters). [latin, ablative of res thing]
Usage in sense 1, a hyphen is normally used when the word begins with e (re-
enact), or to distinguish the compound from a more familiar one-word form (re-
form = form again).
Reach —v. 1 (often foll. By out) stretch out, extend. 2 (often foll. By for) stretch
out the hand etc.; make a stretch or effort. 3 get as far as. 4 get to or attain. 5
make contact with the hand etc., or by telephone etc. (could not be reached). 6
hand, pass (reach me that book). 7 take with an outstretched hand. 8 naut. Sail
with the wind abeam or abaft the beam. —n. 1 extent to which a hand etc. Can
be reached out, influence exerted, motion carried out, or mental powers used. 2
act of reaching out. 3 continuous extent, esp. Of river between two bends or of
canal between locks. 4 naut. Distance traversed in reaching. reachable adj. [old
english]
Reactionary —adj. Tending to oppose (esp. Political) change or reform. —n. (pl.
-ies) reactionary person.
Reactive adj. 1 showing reaction. 2 reacting rather than taking the initiative. 3
susceptible to chemical reaction.
Read —v. (past and past part. Read) 1 (also absol.) Reproduce mentally or (often
foll. By aloud, out, off, etc.) Vocally the written or printed words of (a book,
author, etc.). 2 convert or be able to convert into the intended words or meaning
(written or other symbols or the things expressed in this way) (can’t read music).
3 understand by observing; interpret (read me like a book; read his silence as
consent; read my mind; reads tea-leaves). 4 find (a thing) stated in print etc.
(read that you were leaving). 5 (often foll. By into) assume as intended or
deducible (read too much into it). 6 bring into a specified state by reading (read
myself to sleep). 7 a (of a recording instrument) show (a specified figure etc.). B
interpret (a recording instrument) (read the meter). 8 convey meaning when read;
have a certain wording (it reads persuasively; reads from left to right). 9 sound
or affect a hearer or reader when read (the book reads like a parody). 10 study by
reading (esp. A subject at university). 11 (as read adj.) Versed in a subject (esp.
Literature) by reading (well-read person). 12 (of a computer) copy or transfer
(data). 13 hear and understand (over a radio) (are you reading me?). 14 replace
(a word etc.) With the correct one(s) (for ‘this’ read ‘these’). —n. 1 spell of
reading. 2 colloq. Book etc. As regards readability (is a good read). read between
the lines look for or find hidden meaning. Read up (often followed by on) make
a special study of (a subject). Take as read treat (a thing) as if it has been agreed.
[old english]
Readdress v. 1 change the address of (an item for posting). 2 address (a problem
etc.) Anew. 3 speak or write to anew.
etc.) Anew. 3 speak or write to anew.
Reader n. 1 person who reads. 2 book intended to give reading practice, esp. In a
foreign language. 3 device for producing an image that can be read from
microfilm etc. 4 (also reader) university lecturer of the highest grade below
professor. 5 publisher’s employee who reports on submitted manuscripts. 6
printer’s proof-corrector. 7 person appointed to read aloud, esp. In church.
Ready —adj. (-ier, -iest) (usu. Predic.) 1 with preparations complete (dinner is
ready). 2 in a fit state. 3 willing, inclined, or resolved (he is always ready to
complain). 4 within reach; easily secured (ready source of income). 5 fit for
immediate use. 6 immediate, unqualified (found ready acceptance). 7 prompt (is
always ready with excuses). 8 (foll. By to + infin.) About to (ready to burst). 9
provided beforehand. —adv. (usu. In comb.) Beforehand; so as not to require
doing when the time comes for use etc. (is ready packed; ready-mixed concrete;
ready-made family). —n. (pl. -ies) slang (prec. By the) = *ready money. —v. (-
ies, -ied) make ready, prepare. at the ready ready for action. Make ready prepare.
[old english]
Realism n. 1 practice of regarding things in their true nature and dealing with
them as they are. 2 fidelity to nature in representation; the showing of life etc. As
it is. 3 philos. Doctrine that abstract concepts have an objective existence. realist
n.
Realize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (often foll. By that) be fully aware of;
conceive as real. 2 understand clearly. 3 present as real. 4 convert into actuality.
5 a convert into money. B acquire (profit). C be sold for (a specified price).
realizable adj. Realization n.
Real life n. 1 life lived by actual people. 2 (attrib.) (real-life) actual, not fictional
(her real-life husband).
Real time n. 1 actual time during which a process occurs. 2 (attrib.) (real-time)
computing (of a system) in which the response time is the actual time during
which an event occurs.
Ream n. 1 twenty quires of paper. 2 (in pl.) Large quantity of writing. [arabic, =
bundle]
Reap v. 1 cut or gather (esp. Grain) as a harvest. 2 harvest the crop of (a field
etc.). 3 receive as a result of one’s own or others’ actions. [old english]
Reaper n. 1 person who reaps. 2 reaping machine. 3 (the reaper or grim reaper)
death personified.
Reapply v. (-ies, -ied) apply again, esp. Submit a further application (for a
position etc.). reapplication n.
Rear1 —n. 1 back part of anything. 2 space behind, or position at the back of,
anything. 3 colloq. Buttocks. —adj. At the back. bring up the rear come last.
[probably from rearward or rearguard]
Rear2 v. 1 a bring up and educate (children). B breed and care for (animals). C
cultivate (crops). 2 (of a horse etc.) Raise itself on its hind legs. 3 a set upright. B
build. C hold upwards. 4 extend to a great height. [old english]
Rearguard n. Body of troops detached to protect the rear, esp. In retreats. [french
rereguarde]
Rearm v. (also absol.) Arm again, esp. With improved weapons. rearmament n.
Rearward —n. (esp. In prepositional phrases) rear (to the rearward of; in the
rearward). —adj. To the rear. —adv. (also rearwards) towards the rear. [anglo-
french rerewarde = *rearguard]
Rebel —n. 1 person who fights against, resists, or refuses allegiance to, the
established government. 2 person or thing that resists authority or control. —
attrib. Adj. 1 rebellious. 2 of rebels. 3 in rebellion. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) (usu. Foll.
By against) 1 act as a rebel; revolt. 2 feel or display repugnance. [latin: related to
*re-, bellum war]
Rebid —v. (-dd-; past and past part. Rebid) bid again. —n. 1 act of rebidding. 2
bid so made.
bid so made.
Rebind v. (past and past part. Rebound) bind (esp. A book) again or differently.
Rebound —v. 1 spring back after impact. 2 (foll. By upon) (of an action) have an
adverse effect upon (the doer). —n. Act of rebounding; recoil, reaction. on the
rebound while still recovering from an emotional shock, esp. Rejection by a
lover. [french rebonder: related to *bound1]
Rebroadcast —v. (past -cast or -casted; past part. -cast) broadcast again. —n.
Repeat broadcast.
Rebuff —n. 1 rejection of one who makes advances, proffers help, shows
interest, makes a request, etc. 2 snub. —v. Give a rebuff to. [french from italian]
Rebuke —v. (-king) express sharp disapproval to (a person) for a fault; censure.
—n. Rebuking or being rebuked. [anglo-french]
Rebus n. (pl. Rebuses) representation of a word (esp. A name) by pictures etc.
Suggesting its parts. [latin rebus, ablative pl. Of res thing]
Recast —v. (past and past part. Recast) 1 cast again (a play, net, votes, etc.). 2
put into a new form; improve the arrangement of. —n. 1 recasting. 2 recast form.
Recent —adj. 1 not long past; that happened, began to exist, or existed, lately. 2
not long established; lately begun; modern. 3 (recent) geol. Of the most recent
epoch of the quaternary period. —n. (recent) geol. This epoch. recently adv.
[latin recens -ent-]
Recess —n. 1 space set back in a wall. 2 (often in pl.) Remote or secret place. 3
temporary cessation from work, esp. Of parliament. —v. 1 make a recess in. 2
place in a recess. 3 us take a recess; adjourn. [latin recessus: related to *recede]
Recessional —adj. Sung while the clergy and choir withdraw after a service. —
n. Recessional hymn.
Reckless adj. Disregarding the consequences or danger etc.; rash. recklessly adv.
Recklessness n. [old english reck concern oneself]
Reclaim v. 1 seek the return of (one’s property, rights, etc.). 2 bring (land) under
cultivation, esp. From being under water. 3 win back or away from vice, error, or
cultivation, esp. From being under water. 3 win back or away from vice, error, or
a waste condition. reclaimable adj. Reclamation n. [latin reclamare cry out
against]
Recoil —v. 1 suddenly move or spring back in fear, horror, or disgust. 2 shrink
Recoil —v. 1 suddenly move or spring back in fear, horror, or disgust. 2 shrink
mentally in this way. 3 rebound after an impact. 4 (foll. By on, upon) have an
adverse reactive effect on (the originator). 5 (of a gun) be driven backwards by
its discharge. —n. Act or sensation of recoiling. [french reculer from latin culus
buttocks]
Reconcile v. (-ling) 1 make friendly again after an estrangement. 2 (usu. In refl.
Or passive; foll. By to) make acquiescent or contentedly submissive to
(something disagreeable). 3 settle (a quarrel etc.). 4 a harmonize, make
compatible. B show the compatibility of by argument or in practice. reconcilable
adj. Reconciliation n. [latin: related to *conciliate]
Recondite adj. 1 (of a subject or knowledge) abstruse, out of the way, little
known. 2 (of an author or style) dealing in abstruse knowledge or allusions,
obscure. [latin recondo -dit-put away]
Recorded delivery n. Post office service in which the dispatch and receipt of an
item are recorded.
Recording n. 1 process by which audio or video signals are recorded for later
reproduction. 2 material or a programme recorded.
Recreant literary —adj. Craven, cowardly. —n. Coward. [medieval latin: related
to *creed]
Recrudesce v. (-cing) formal (of a disease, problem, etc.) Break out again.
recrudescence n. Recrudescent adj. [latin: related to *crude]
Rectangle n. Plane figure with four straight sides and four right angles, esp.
Other than a square. rectangular adj. [french or medieval latin]
Rectify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 adjust or make right. 2 purify or refine, esp. By repeated
distillation. 3 convert (alternating current) to direct current. rectifiable adj.
Rectification n. Rectifier n. [latin rectus straight, right]
Recto n. (pl. -s) 1 right-hand page of an open book. 2 front of a printed leaf.
[latin, = on the right]
Rector n. 1 (in the church of england) incumbent of a parish where all tithes
formerly passed to the incumbent (cf. *vicar). 2 rc ch. Priest in charge of a
church or religious institution. 3 head of some universities and colleges.
rectorship n. [latin rego rect-rule]
Rectory n. (pl. -ies) rector’s house. [french or medieval latin: related to *rector]
Rectum n. (pl. -s) final section of the large intestine, terminating at the anus.
[latin, = straight]
Red —adj. (redder, reddest) 1 of the colour ranging from that of blood to deep
pink or orange. 2 flushed in the face with shame, anger, etc. 3 (of the eyes)
bloodshot or red-rimmed. 4 (of the hair) reddish-brown, tawny. 5 having to do
with bloodshed, burning, violence, or revolution. 6 colloq. Communist or
socialist. 7 (red) hist. Russian, soviet. —n. 1 red colour or pigment. 2 red clothes
or material. 3 colloq. Communist or socialist. in the red in debt or deficit. reddish
adj. Redness n. [old english]
Red card n. Football card shown by the referee to a player being sent off.
Red-handed adv. In the act of committing a crime, doing wrong, etc.
Red-hot adj. 1 heated until red. 2 colloq. Highly exciting. 3 colloq. (of news)
fresh; completely new. 4 intensely excited. 5 enraged.
Red-hot poker n. Cultivated plant with spikes of usu. Red or yellow flowers.
Rediscover v. Discover again. rediscovery n. (pl. -ies).
Usage the second pronunciation given, with the stress on the second syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Red meat n. Meat that is red when raw (e.g. Beef or lamb).
Redo v. (redoing; 3rd sing. Present redoes; past redid; past part. Redone) 1 do
Redo v. (redoing; 3rd sing. Present redoes; past redid; past part. Redone) 1 do
again. 2 redecorate.
Red pepper n. 1 cayenne pepper. 2 ripe red fruit of the capsicum plant.
Redwing n. Thrush with red underwings.
Reed n. 1 a water or marsh plant with a firm stem. B tall straight stalk of this. 2 a
strip of cane etc. Vibrating to produce the sound in some wind instruments. B
(esp. In pl.) Such an instrument. reeded adj. [old english]
Reedy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of reeds. 2 like a reed. 3 (of a voice) like a reed
instrument in tone. reediness n.
Reef1 n. 1 ridge of rock or coral etc. At or near the surface of the sea. 2 a lode of
ore. B bedrock surrounding this. [old norse rif]
Reef2 —n. Each of several strips across a sail, for taking it in or rolling it up to
reduce its surface area in a high wind. —v. Take in a reef or reefs of (a sail).
[dutch from old norse]
Reek —v. (often foll. By of) 1 smell strongly and unpleasantly. 2 have
unpleasant or suspicious associations (reeks of corruption). —n. 1 foul or stale
smell. 2 esp. Scot. Smoke. 3 vapour, visible exhalation. [old english]
Reel —n. 1 cylindrical device on which thread, silk, yarn, paper, film, wire, etc.,
are wound. 2 quantity of thread etc. Wound on a reel. 3 device for winding and
unwinding a line as required, esp. In fishing. 4 revolving part in various
machines. 5 a lively folk or scottish dance. B music for this. —v. 1 wind (thread,
fishing-line, etc.) On a reel. 2 (foll. By in, up) draw (fish etc.) In or up with a
reel. 3 stand, walk, or run unsteadily. 4 be shaken mentally or physically. 5 rock
from side to side, or swing violently. 6 dance a reel. reel off say or recite very
rapidly and without apparent effort. [old english]
Re-entry n. (pl. -ies) act of entering again, esp. (of a spacecraft, missile, etc.) Re-
entering the earth’s atmosphere.
Reeve2 v. (past rove or reeved) naut. 1 (usu. Foll. By through) thread (a rope or
rod etc.) Through a ring or other aperture. 2 fasten (a rope or block) in this way.
[probably dutch reven]
Refer v. (-rr-) (usu. Foll. By to) 1 make an appeal or have recourse to (some
authority or source of information) (referred to his notes). 2 send on or direct (a
person, or a question for decision). 3 (of a person speaking) make an allusion or
direct the hearer’s or reader’s attention (did not refer to our problems). 4 (of a
statement etc.) Be relevant; relate (these figures refer to last year). 5 send (a
person) to a medical specialist etc. 6 (foll. By back to) a return (a document etc.)
To its sender for clarification. B send (a proposal etc.) Back to (a lower body,
court, etc.). 7 fail (a candidate in an examination). referable adj. [latin refero
relat-carry back]
Referred pain n. Pain felt in a part of the body other than its actual source.
Referred pain n. Pain felt in a part of the body other than its actual source.
Refill —v. Fill again. —n. 1 thing that refills, esp. Another drink. 2 act of
refilling. refillable adj.
Refiner n. Person or firm whose business is to refine crude oil, metal, sugar, etc.
Refit —v. (-tt-) esp. Naut. Make or become serviceable again by repairs,
renewals, etc. —n. Refitting.
Reflect v. 1 (of a surface or body) throw back (heat, light, sound, etc.). 2 (of a
mirror) show an image of; reproduce to the eye or mind. 3 correspond in
appearance or effect to (their behaviour reflects their upbringing). 4 a (of an
action, result, etc.) Show or bring (credit, discredit, etc.). B (absol.; usu. Foll. By
on, upon) bring discredit on. 5 a (often foll. By on, upon) meditate on; think
about. B (foll. By that, how, etc.) Consider; remind oneself. [latin flecto flex-
bend]
Reflective adj. 1 (of a surface etc.) Reflecting. 2 (of mental faculties) concerned
in reflection or thought. 3 (of a person or mood etc.) Thoughtful; given to
meditation. reflectively adv. Reflectiveness n.
Reflexive gram. —adj. 1 (of a word or form, esp. Of a pronoun) referring back
to the subject of a sentence (e.g. Myself). 2 (of a verb) having a reflexive
pronoun as its object (as in to wash oneself). —n. Reflexive word or form, esp.
A pronoun (e.g. Myself).
Reflexology n. Massage through points on the feet, hands, and head, to relieve
tension and treat illness. reflexologist n.
Reform —v. 1 make or become better by the removal of faults and errors. 2
abolish or cure (an abuse or malpractice). —n. 1 removal of faults or abuses, esp.
Moral, political, or social. 2 improvement made or suggested. reformative adj.
Reformatory —n. (pl. -ies) us & hist. Institution for the reform of young
offenders. —adj. Producing reform.
Refract v. (of water, air, glass, etc.) Deflect (a ray of light etc.) At a certain angle
when it enters obliquely from another medium. refraction n. Refractive adj. [latin
refringo -fract-break open]
Refrain1 v. (foll. By from) avoid doing (an action) (refrain from smoking). [latin
frenum bridle]
Refresh v. 1 give new spirit or vigour to. 2 revive (the memory), esp. By
consulting the source of one’s information. refreshing adj. Refreshingly adv.
[french: related to *fresh]
Refresher n. 1 something that refreshes, esp. A drink. 2 law extra fee payable to
counsel in a prolonged case.
Refresher course n. Course reviewing or updating previous studies.
Refrigerant —n. Substance used for refrigeration. —adj. Cooling. [latin: related
to *refrigerate]
Refuel v. (-ll-; us -l-) replenish a fuel supply; supply with more fuel.
Refusal n. 1 refusing or being refused. 2 (in full first refusal) right or privilege of
deciding to take or leave a thing before it is offered to others.
Refusenik n. Hist. Soviet jew who has been refused permission to emigrate to
israel.
Refute v. (-ting) 1 prove the falsity or error of (a statement etc. Or the person
advancing it). 2 rebut by argument. 3 deny or contradict (without argument).
refutation n. [latin refuto]
Regenerate —v. (-ting) 1 bring or come into renewed existence; generate again.
2 improve the moral condition of. 3 impart new, more vigorous, or spiritually
higher life or nature to. 4 biol.
Regicide n. 1 person who kills or helps to kill a king. 2 killing of a king. [latin
rex reg-king, *-cide]
Regimen n. Prescribed course of exercise, way of life, and diet. [latin rego rule]
Regina n. 1 (after the name) reigning queen (elizabeth regina). 2 law the crown
(regina v. Jones). [latin, = queen: related to *rex]
Register —n. 1 official list, e.g. Of births, marriages, and deaths, of children in a
class, of shipping, of professionally qualified persons, or of qualified voters in a
constituency. 2 book in which items are recorded for reference. 3 device
recording speed, force, etc. 4 a compass of a voice or instrument. B part of this
compass (lower register). 5 adjustable plate for widening or narrowing an
opening and regulating a draught, esp. In a fire-grate. 6 a set of organ pipes. B
sliding device controlling this. 7 = *cash register. 8 form of a language
(colloquial, literary, etc.) Used in particular circumstances. 9 computing a
memory location having specific properties and quick access time. —v. 1 set
down (a name, fact, complaint, etc.) Formally; record in writing. 2 enter or cause
to be entered in a particular register. 3 commit (a letter etc.) To registered post. 4
(of an instrument) record automatically; indicate. 5 a express (an emotion)
facially or by gesture (registered surprise). B (of an emotion) show in a person’s
face or gestures. 6 make an impression on a person’s mind. [latin regero -gest-
transcribe, record]
Registered post n. Postal procedure with special precautions for safety and for
compensation in case of loss.
Usage register office is the official name, although registry office is often heard
in colloquial usage.
Registry n. (pl. -ies) place where registers or records are kept. [medieval latin:
related to *register]
Regress —v. 1 move backwards; return to a former, esp. Worse, state. 2 psychol.
(cause to) return mentally to a former stage of life. —n. Act of regressing.
regression n. Regressive adj. [latin regredior -gress-go back]
Regret —v. (-tt-) 1 feel or express sorrow, repentance, or distress over (an action
or loss etc.). 2 acknowledge with sorrow or remorse (regret to say). —n. Feeling
of sorrow, repentance, etc., over an action or loss etc. give (or send) one’s
regrets formally decline an invitation. [french regretter]
Regretful adj. Feeling or showing regret. regretfully adv.
Rehash —v. Put (old material) into a new form without significant change or
improvement. —n. 1 material rehashed. 2 rehashing.
Rehear v. (past and past part. Reheard) hear (esp. A judicial case) again.
Rehearse v. (-sing) 1 practise (a play, music, etc.) For later public performance.
2 hold a rehearsal. 3 train (a person) by rehearsal. 4 recite or say over. 5 give a
list of, enumerate. [anglo-french: related to *hearse]
Reich n. The former german state, esp. The third reich. [german, = empire]
Reign —v. 1 be king or queen. 2 prevail (confusion reigns). 3 (as reigning attrib.
Adj.) (of a winner, champion, etc.) Currently holding the title etc. —n. 1
sovereignty, rule. 2 period during which a sovereign rules.
Rein —n. (in sing. Or pl.) 1 long narrow strap with each end attached to the bit,
used to guide or check a horse etc. 2 similar device used to restrain a child. 3
means of control. —v. 1 check or manage with reins. 2 (foll. By up, back) pull
up or back with reins. 3 (foll. By in) hold in as with reins. 4 govern, restrain,
control. give free rein to allow freedom of action or expression. Keep a tight rein
on allow little freedom to. [french rene from latin retinere *retain]
Reindeer n. (pl. Same or -s) subarctic deer with large antlers. [old norse]
Reissue —v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) issue again or in a different form. —n. New
issue, esp. Of a previously published book.
Reject —v. 1 put aside or send back as not to be used, done, or complied with
etc. 2 refuse to accept or believe in. 3 rebuff or withhold affection from (a
person). 4 show an immune response to (a transplant) so that it fails. —n. Thing
or person rejected as unfit or below standard. rejection n. [latin rejicio -ject-
throw back]
Rejig v. (-gg-) 1 re-equip (a factory etc.) For a new kind of work. 2 rearrange.
Rejoice v. (-cing) 1 feel great joy. 2 be glad. 3 (foll. By in, at) take delight.
[french rejoir: related to *joy]
Rejoinder n. What is said in reply; retort. [anglo-french: related to *rejoin2]
Rejuvenate v. (-ting) make (as if) young again. rejuvenation n. [latin juvenis
young]
Relapse —v. (-sing) (usu. Foll. By into) fall back or sink again (into a worse
state after improvement). —n. Relapsing, esp. A deterioration in a patient’s
condition after partial recovery. [latin labor laps-slip]
Relate v. (-ting) 1 narrate or recount. 2 (usu. Foll. By to, with) connect (two
things) in thought or meaning; associate. 3 (foll. By to) have reference to. 4 (foll.
By to) feel connected or sympathetic to. [latin: related to *refer]
Relative atomic mass n. The ratio of the average mass of one atom of an element
to one-twelfth of the mass of an atom of carbon-12.
Relative density n. The ratio between the mass of a substance and that of the
same volume of a substance used as a standard (usu. Water or air).
Relative molecular mass n. The ratio of the average mass of one molecule of an
element or compound to one-twelfth of the mass of an atom of carbon-12.
Relax v. 1 make or become less stiff, rigid, or tense. 2 make or become less
formal or strict (rules were relaxed). 3 reduce or abate (one’s attention, efforts,
etc.). 4 cease work or effort. 5 (as relaxed adj.) At ease; unperturbed. [latin
etc.). 4 cease work or effort. 5 (as relaxed adj.) At ease; unperturbed. [latin
relaxo: related to *lax]
Relay —n. 1 fresh set of people etc. Substituted for tired ones. 2 supply of
material similarly used. 3 = *relay race. 4 device activating an electric circuit
etc. In response to changes affecting itself. 5 a device to receive, reinforce, and
transmit a message, broadcast, etc. B relayed message or transmission. —v.
Receive (a message, broadcast, etc.) And transmit it to others. [french relai from
latin laxo: see *lax]
Relay race n. Race between teams of which each member in turn covers part of
the distance.
Release —v. (-sing) 1 (often foll. By from) set free; liberate, unfasten. 2 allow to
move from a fixed position. 3 a make (information, a recording, etc.) Publicly
available. B issue (a film etc.) For general exhibition. —n. 1 liberation from a
restriction, duty, or difficulty. 2 handle or catch that releases part of a
mechanism. 3 news item etc. Made available for publication (press release). 4 a
film or record etc. That is released. B releasing or being released in this way.
[french relesser from latin relaxo *relax]
Relegate v. (-ting) 1 consign or dismiss to an inferior position. 2 transfer (a
sports team) to a lower division of a league etc. 3 banish. relegation n. [latin
relego send away]
Re-let —v. (-tt-; past and past part. -let) let (a property) for a further period or to
a new tenant. —n. Re-let property.
Relevant adj. (often foll. By to) bearing on or having reference to the matter in
hand. relevance n. [latin relevo: related to *relieve]
Relict n. Object surviving in its primitive form. [french relicte: related to *relic]
Relief map n. Map indicating hills and valleys by shading etc. Rather than by
contour lines alone.
Relieve v. (-ving) 1 bring or give relief to. 2 mitigate the tedium or monotony of.
3 release (a person) from a duty by acting as or providing a substitute. 4 (foll. By
of) take (esp. A burden or duty) away from (a person). relieve one’s feelings use
strong language or vigorous behaviour when annoyed. Relieve oneself urinate or
defecate. relieved adj. [latin relevo raise again, alleviate]
Relight v. (past and past part. -lit) light (a fire etc.) Again.
Reliquary n. (pl. -ies) esp. Relig. Receptacle for a relic or relics. [french
reliquaire: related to *relic]
Relocate v. (-ting) 1 locate in a new place. 2 move to a new place (esp. To live
or work). relocation n.
Rely v. (-ies, -ied) (foll. By on, upon) 1 depend on with confidence or assurance.
2 be dependent on. [latin religo bind closely]
Remain v. 1 be left over after others or other parts have been removed, used, or
dealt with. 2 be in the same place or condition during further time; stay
(remained at home). 3 (foll. By compl.) Continue to be (remained calm; remains
president). [latin remaneo]
Remains n.pl. 1 what remains after other parts have been removed or used etc. 2
relics of antiquity, esp. Of buildings. 3 dead body.
Remake —v. (-king; past and past part. Remade) make again or differently. —n.
Thing that has been remade, esp. A cinema film.
Remand —v. Return (a prisoner) to custody, esp. To allow further inquiry. —n.
Recommittal to custody. on remand in custody pending trial. [latin remando]
Remark —v. 1 (often foll. By that) a say by way of comment. B archaic take
notice of; regard with attention. 2 (usu. Foll. By on, upon) make a comment. —
n. 1 written or spoken comment; anything said. 2 a noticing (worthy of remark).
B commenting (let it pass without remark). [french remarquer: related to
*mark1]
Remedial adj. 1 affording or intended as a remedy. 2 (of teaching etc.) For slow
or disadvantaged pupils. [latin: related to *remedy]
Remedy —n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. By for, against) 1 medicine or treatment. 2
means of counteracting or removing anything undesirable. 3 redress; legal or
other reparation. —v. (-ies, -ied) rectify; make good. remediable adj. [latin
remedium from medeor heal]
Remembrance sunday n. Sunday nearest 11 nov., when those killed in the wars
of 1914–18 and 1939–45 and later conflicts are commemorated.
Reminder n. 1 thing that reminds, esp. A repeat letter or bill. 2 (often foll. By of)
memento.
Remittance n. 1 money sent, esp. By post. 2 sending of money.
Remnant n. 1 small remaining quantity. 2 piece of cloth etc. Left when the
greater part has been used or sold. [french: related to *remain]
Remold (brit. Remould) —v. 1 mould again; refashion. 2 re-form the tread of (a
tyre). —n. Remoulded tyre.
Remortgage —v. (-ging) (also absol.) Mortgage again; revise the terms of an
existing mortgage on (a property). —n. Different or altered mortgage.
Remote adj. (remoter, remotest) 1 far away, far apart, distant. 2 isolated;
secluded. 3 distantly related (remote ancestor). 4 slight, faint (a remote hope; not
the remotest chance). 5 aloof; not friendly. remotely adv. Remoteness n. [latin
remotus: related to *remove]
Remould (us remold) —v. 1 mould again; refashion. 2 re-form the tread of (a
tyre). —n. Remoulded tyre.
Remove —v. (-ving) 1 take off or away from the place occupied. 2 a convey to
another place; change the situation of. B get rid of; dismiss. 3 cause to be no
longer present or available; take away (privileges were removed). 4 (in passive;
foll. By from) distant or remote in condition (country is not far removed from
anarchy). 5 (as removed adj.) (esp. Of cousins) separated by a specified number
of steps of descent (a first cousin twice removed = a grandchild of a first cousin).
—n. 1 degree of remoteness; distance. 2 stage in a gradation; degree (several
removes from what i expected). 3 form or division in some schools. removable
adj. [latin removeo -mot-]
Remunerate v. (-ting) 1 reward; pay for services rendered. 2 serve as or provide
recompense for (work etc.) Or to (a person). remuneration n. Remunerative adj.
[latin munus -ner-gift]
Renaissance man n. Person with many talents or pursuits, esp. In the humanities.
Rend v. (past and past part. Rent) archaic tear or wrench forcibly. [old english]
Renege v. (-ging) (often foll. By on) go back on (one’s word etc.). [latin nego
deny]
Renew v. 1 revive; make new again; restore to the original state. 2 reinforce;
resupply; replace. 3 repeat or re-establish, resume after an interruption (renewed
our acquaintance). 4 (also absol.) Grant or be granted continuation of (a licence,
subscription, lease, etc.). 5 recover (strength etc.). renewable adj. Renewal n.
Rent1 —n. 1 tenant’s periodical payment to an owner for the use of land or
premises. 2 payment for the use of equipment etc. —v. 1 (often foll. By from)
take, occupy, or use at a rent. 2 (often foll. By out) let or hire (a thing) for rent. 3
(foll. By at) be let at a specified rate. [french rente: related to *render]
Rent2 n. 1 large tear in a garment etc. 2 opening in clouds etc. [from *rend]
Reorder —v. 1 order again. 2 put into a new order. —n. Renewed or repeated
order for goods.
Repaint —v. 1 paint again or differently. 2 restore the paint or colouring of. —n.
Act of repainting.
Repair1 —v. 1 restore to good condition after damage or wear. 2 set right or
make amends for (a loss, wrong, error, etc.). —n. 1 restoring to sound condition
(in need of repair). 2 result of this (the repair hardly shows). 3 good or relative
condition for working or using (in bad repair). repairable adj. Repairer n. [latin
paro make ready]
Repair2 v. (foll. By to) resort; have recourse; go. [latin: related to *repatriate]
Reparable adj. (of a loss etc.) That can be made good. [latin: related to *repair1]
Repast n. Formal 1 meal. 2 food and drink for this. [latin repasco -past-feed]
Repatriate —v. (-ting) return (a person) to his or her native land. —n.
Repatriated person. repatriation n. [latin repatrio go back home, from patria
native land]
Repay v. (past and past part. Repaid) 1 pay back (money). 2 make repayment to
(a person). 3 requite, reward (a service, action, etc.) (repaid their kindness; book
repays study). repayable adj. Repayment n.
Repeal —v. Revoke or annul (a law etc.). —n. Repealing. [french: related to
*appeal]
Repeat —v. 1 say or do over again. 2 recite, rehearse, or report (something learnt
or heard). 3 recur; appear again. 4 (of food) be tasted after being swallowed due
to belching. —n. 1 a repeating. B thing repeated (often attrib.: repeat
prescription). 2 repeated broadcast. 3 mus. A passage intended to be repeated. B
mark indicating this. 4 pattern repeated in wallpaper etc. repeat itself recur in the
same form. Repeat oneself say or do the same thing over again. repeatable adj.
Repeatedly adv. [latin peto seek]
Repeater n. 1 person or thing that repeats. 2 firearm which fires several shots
without reloading. 3 watch or clock which repeats its last strike when required. 4
device for the re-transmission of an electrical message.
Repel v. (-ll-) 1 drive back; ward off (repel an attacker). 2 refuse to accept
(repelled offers of help). 3 be repulsive or distasteful to. 4 resist mixing with or
admitting (oil and water repel each other; surface repels moisture). 5 (of a
magnetic pole) push away from itself (like poles repel). repellent adj. & n. [latin
repello -puls-]
Repent v. 1 (often foll. By of) feel deep sorrow about one’s actions etc. 2 (also
absol.) Wish one had not done; resolve not to continue (a wrongdoing etc.).
repentance n. Repentant adj. [latin paeniteo]
Repertory n. (pl. -ies) 1 performance of various plays for short periods by one
company. 2 repertory theatres collectively. 3 store or collection, esp. Of
information, instances, etc. 4 = *repertoire. [latin reperio find]
Repine v. (-ning) (often foll. By at, against) fret; be discontented. [from *pine2,
after repent]
Replace v. (-cing) 1 put back in place. 2 take the place of; succeed; be
substituted for. 3 find or provide a substitute for. 4 (often foll. By with, by) fill
up the place of.
Replay —v. Play (a match, recording, etc.) Again. —n. Replaying of a match,
recorded incident in a game, etc.
Replica n. 1 exact copy, esp. A duplicate of a work, made by the original artist. 2
copy or model, esp. On a smaller scale. [italian replicare *reply]
Reply —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By to) make an answer, respond in word or
action. 2 say in answer. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 replying (what did they say in reply?). 2
what is replied; response. [latin replico fold back]
Report —v. 1 a bring back or give an account of. B state as fact or news, narrate
or describe or repeat, esp. As an eyewitness or hearer etc. C relate as spoken by
another. 2 make an official or formal statement about. 3 (often foll. By to) bring
(an offender or offence) to the attention of the authorities. 4 (often foll. By to)
present oneself to a person as having returned or arrived. 5 (also absol.) Take
down word for word, summarize, or write a description of for publication. 6
make or send in a report. 7 (foll. By to) be responsible to (a superior etc.). —n. 1
account given or opinion formally expressed after investigation or consideration.
2 description, summary, or reproduction of a scene, speech, law case, etc., esp.
For newspaper publication or broadcast. 3 common talk; rumour. 4 way a person
or thing is spoken of (hear a good report of you). 5 periodical statement on (esp.
A school pupil’s) work, conduct, etc. 6 sound of a gunshot etc. reportedly adv.
[latin porto bring]
Reportage n. 1 reporting of news for the media. 2 typical style of this. 3 factual
journalistic material in a book etc. [from *report, after french]
Reported speech n. Speaker’s words with the person, tense, etc. Adapted, e.g. He
said that he would go.
Repose2 v. (-sing) (foll. By in) place (trust etc.) In. [from re-, pose]
Repository n. (pl. -ies) 1 place where things are stored or may be found, esp. A
warehouse or museum. 2 receptacle. 3 (often foll. By of) a book, person, etc.
Regarded as a store of information etc. B recipient of secrets etc. [latin: related
to *repose2]
Reprimand —n. (esp. Official) rebuke. —v. Administer this to. [latin: related to
*repress]
Reprint —v. Print again. —n. 1 reprinting of a book etc. 2 book etc. Reprinted. 3
quantity reprinted.
Republic n. State in which supreme power is held by the people or their elected
representatives or by an elected or nominated president, not by a monarch etc.
[latin res concern: related to *public]
Repulse —v. (-sing) 1 drive back by force of arms. 2 a rebuff. B refuse. —n. 1
repulsing or being repulsed. 2 rebuff. [latin: related to *repel]
Reputation n. 1 what is generally said or believed about a person’s or thing’s
character (reputation for honesty; reputation of being a crook). 2 state of being
well thought of; respectability (lost its reputation). [latin: related to *repute]
Repute —n. Reputation. —v. (as reputed adj.) 1 be generally considered (is
reputed to be the best). 2 passing as, but probably not (his reputed father).
reputedly adv. [latin puto think]
Request —n. 1 act of asking for something (came at his request). 2 thing asked
for. —v. 1 ask to be given, allowed, or favoured with. 2 (foll. By to + infin.) Ask
(a person) to do something. 3 (foll. By that) ask that. by (or on) request in
response to an expressed wish. [latin: related to *require]
Requiem n. 1 (requiem) (also attrib.) Chiefly rc ch. Mass for the repose of the
souls of the dead. 2 music for this. [latin, = rest]
Require v. (-ring) 1 need; depend on for success or fulfilment (the work requires
patience). 2 lay down as an imperative (required by law). 3 command; instruct (a
person etc.). 4 order; insist on (an action or measure). requirement n. [latin
requiro -quisit-seek]
Requisition —n. 1 official order laying claim to the use of property or materials.
Requisition —n. 1 official order laying claim to the use of property or materials.
2 formal written demand that some duty should be performed. 3 being called or
put into service. —v. Demand the use or supply of, esp. By requisition order.
[latin: related to *require]
Reredos n. Ornamental screen covering the wall at the back of an altar. [anglo-
french: related to *arrears, dos back]
Re-release —v. (-sing) release (a record, film, etc.) Again. —n. Re-released
record, film, etc.
Rerun —v. (-nn-; past reran; past part. Rerun) 1 run (a race, film, etc.) Again. 2
repeat (a course of action). —n. 1 act of rerunning. 2 film etc. Shown again. 3
repetition (of events).
Resale n. Sale of a thing previously bought.
Rescue —v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) (often foll. By from) save or set free from danger
or harm. —n. Rescuing or being rescued. rescuer n. [romanic: related to re-, ex-
1, *quash]
Usage the second pronunciation, with the stress on the first syllable, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Resell v. (past and past part. Resold) sell (an object etc.) After buying it.
Resemble v. (-ling) be like; have a similarity to, or the same appearance as.
[french sembler seem]
Reserve —v. (-ving) 1 put aside, keep back for a later occasion or special use. 2
Reserve —v. (-ving) 1 put aside, keep back for a later occasion or special use. 2
order to be specially retained or allocated for a particular person or at a particular
time. 3 retain or secure (reserve the right to). —n. 1 thing reserved for future use;
extra amount. 2 limitation or exception attached to something. 3 self-restraint;
reticence; lack of cordiality. 4 company’s profit added to capital. 5 (in sing. Or
pl.) Assets kept readily available. 6 (in sing. Or pl.) A troops withheld from
action to reinforce or protect others. B forces in addition to the regular army etc.,
but available in an emergency. 7 member of the military reserve. 8 extra player
chosen as a possible substitute in a team. 9 land reserved for special use, esp. As
a habitat (nature reserve). in reserve unused and available if required. Reserve
judgement postpone giving one’s opinion. [latin servo keep]
Reserve price n. Lowest acceptable price stipulated for an item sold at auction.
Reset v. (-tt-; past and past part. Reset) set (a bone, gems, a clock etc.) Again or
differently.
Reshuffle —v. (-ling) 1 shuffle (cards) again. 2 change the posts of (government
ministers etc.). —n. Act of reshuffling.
Reside v. (-ding) 1 have one’s home, dwell permanently. 2 (foll. By in) (of
power, a right, etc.) Be vested in. 3 (foll. By in) (of a quality) be present or
inherent in. [latin sedeo sit]
Resignation n. 1 resigning, esp. From one’s job or office. 2 letter etc. Conveying
this. 3 reluctant acceptance of the inevitable. [medieval latin: related to *resign]
Resigned adj. 1 (often foll. By to) having resigned oneself; resolved to endure. 2
indicative of this resignedly adv.
Resilient adj. 1 resuming its original shape after compression etc. 2 readily
recovering from a setback. resilience n. [latin: related to *salient]
Resin —n. 1 adhesive substance secreted by some plants and trees. 2 (in full
synthetic resin) organic compound made by polymerization etc. And used in
plastics. —v. (-n-) rub or treat with resin. resinous adj. [latin]
Resist —v. 1 withstand the action or effect of. 2 stop the course or progress of. 3
abstain from (pleasure, temptation, etc.). 4 strive against; try to impede; refuse to
comply with (resist arrest). 5 offer opposition; refuse to comply. —n. Protective
coating of a resistant substance. resistible adj. [latin sisto stop]
Resit —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Resat) sit (an examination) again after failing.
—n. 1 resitting of an examination. 2 examination specifically for this.
Resoluble adj. 1 that can be resolved. 2 (foll. By into) analysable into. [latin:
related to *resolve]
Resolve —v. (-ving) 1 make up one’s mind; decide firmly (resolved to leave, on
leaving). 2 cause (a person) to do this (events resolved him to leave). 3 solve,
explain, or settle (a doubt, argument, etc.). 4 (foll. By that) (of an assembly or
meeting) pass a resolution by vote. 5 (often foll. By into) (cause to) separate into
constituent parts; analyse. 6 (foll. By into) reduce by mental analysis into. 7 mus.
Convert or be converted into concord. —n. Firm mental decision or intention;
determination. [latin: related to *solve]
Resort —n. 1 place frequented esp. For holidays or for a specified purpose or
quality (seaside resort; health resort). 2 a thing to which one has recourse;
expedient, measure. B (foll. By to) recourse to; use of (without resort to
violence). —v. 1 (foll. By to) turn to as an expedient (resorted to force). 2 (foll.
By to) go often or in large numbers to. in the (or as a) last resort when all else
has failed. [french sortir go out]
Resound v. 1 (often foll. By with) (of a place) ring or echo. 2 (of a voice,
instrument, sound, etc.) Produce echoes; go on sounding; fill a place with sound.
3 a (of a reputation etc.) Be much talked of. B (foll. By through) produce a
sensation. 4 (of a place) re-echo (a sound). [latin: related to *sound1]
Respectively adv. For each separately or in turn, and in the order mentioned (she
and i gave £10 and £1 respectively).
Respell v. (past and past part. Respelt or respelled) spell again or differently,
esp. Phonetically.
Respirator n. 1 apparatus worn over the face to warm, filter, or purify inhaled air.
2 apparatus for maintaining artificial respiration.
Respire v. (-ring) 1 (also absol.) Breathe (air etc.); inhale and exhale. 2 (of a
plant) carry out respiration. respiratory adj.
Responsible adj. 1 (often foll. By to, for) liable to be called to account (to a
person or for a thing). 2 morally accountable for one’s actions; capable of
rational conduct. 3 of good credit, position, or repute; respectable; evidently
trustworthy. 4 (often foll. By for) being the primary cause. 5 involving
responsibility. responsibly adv.
Responsive adj. 1 (often foll. By to) responding readily (to some influence). 2
Responsive adj. 1 (often foll. By to) responding readily (to some influence). 2
sympathetic. 3 a answering. B by way of answer. responsiveness n.
Respray —v. Spray again (esp. A vehicle with paint). —n. Act of respraying.
Rest1 —v. 1 cease from exertion, action, etc. 2 be still or asleep, esp. To refresh
oneself or recover strength. 3 give relief or repose to; allow to rest. 4 (foll. By
on, upon, against) lie on; be supported by. 5 (foll. By on, upon) depend or be
based on. 6 (foll. By on, upon) (of a look) alight or be steadily directed on. 7
(foll. By on, upon) place for support or foundation on. 8 (of a problem or
subject) be left without further investigation or discussion (let the matter rest). 9
a lie in death. B (foll. By in) lie buried in (a churchyard etc.). 10 (as rested adj.)
Refreshed by resting. —n. 1 repose or sleep. 2 cessation of exertion, activity, etc.
3 period of resting. 4 support for holding or steadying something. 5 mus. A
interval of silence. B sign denoting this. at rest not moving; not agitated or
troubled; dead. Be resting euphem. (of an actor) be out of work. Rest one’s case
conclude one’s argument etc. Rest on one’s laurels not seek further success. Rest
on one’s oars relax one’s efforts. Set at rest settle or relieve (a question, a
person’s mind, etc.). [old english]
Rest2 —n. (prec. By the) the remaining part or parts; the others; the remainder of
some quantity or number. —v. 1 remain in a specified state (rest assured). 2
(foll. By with) be left in the hands or charge of (the final arrangements rest with
you). for the rest as regards anything else. [french rester remain]
Restaurant n. Public premises where meals may be bought and eaten. [french
Restaurant n. Public premises where meals may be bought and eaten. [french
from restaurer *restore]
Restaurateur n. Restaurant-keeper.
Restful adj. Giving rest or a feeling of rest; quiet, undisturbed. restfully adv.
Restfulness n.
Rest home n. Place where old or convalescent people are cared for.
Restive adj. 1 fidgety; restless. 2 (of a horse) jibbing; refractory. 3 (of a person)
resisting control. restively adv. Restiveness n. [french: related to *rest2]
Restock v. (also absol.) Stock again or differently.
Restore v. (-ring) 1 bring back to the original state by rebuilding, repairing, etc. 2
bring back to health etc. 3 give back to the original owner etc. 4 reinstate. 5
replace; put back; bring back to a former condition. 6 make a representation of
the supposed original state of (a ruin, extinct animal, etc.). restorer n. [latin
restauro]
Restrain v. 1 (often refl., usu. Foll. By from) check or hold in; keep in check,
under control, or within bounds. 2 repress, keep down. 3 confine, imprison. [latin
restringo -strict-]
Resultant —adj. Resulting, esp. As the total outcome of more or less opposed
forces. —n. Force etc. Equivalent to two or more acting in different directions at
the same point.
Résumé n. Summary. [french: related to *resume]
Resurface v. (-cing) 1 lay a new surface on (a road etc.). 2 return to the surface.
3 turn up again.
Resurrect v. 1 colloq. Revive the practice, use, or memory of. 2 raise or rise from
the dead. [back-formation from *resurrection]
Resurrection n. 1 rising from the dead. 2 (resurrection) christ’s rising from the
dead. 3 revival after disuse, inactivity, or decay. [latin: related to *resurgent]
Retail —n. Sale of goods in small quantities to the public, and usu. Not for
resale. —adj. & adv. By retail; at a retail price. —v. 1 sell (goods) by retail. 2
(often foll. By at, of) (of goods) be sold in this way (esp. For a specified price). 3
recount; relate details of. retailer n. [french taillier cut: related to *tally]
Retain v. 1 a keep possession of; not lose; continue to have. B not abolish,
discard, or alter. 2 keep in one’s memory. 3 keep in place; hold fixed. 4 secure
the services of (a person, esp. A barrister) with a preliminary payment. [latin
retineo -tent-]
retineo -tent-]
Retainer n. 1 fee for securing a person’s services. 2 faithful servant (esp. Old
retainer). 3 reduced rent paid to retain unoccupied accommodation. 4 person or
thing that retains.
Retake —v. (-king; past retook; past part. Retaken) 1 take (a photograph, exam,
etc.) Again. 2 recapture. —n. 1 act of filming a scene or recording music etc.
Again. 2 film or recording obtained in this way. 3 act of taking an exam etc.
Again.
Retch v. Make a motion of vomiting, esp. Involuntarily and without effect. [old
english]
Retentive adj. 1 tending to retain. 2 (of memory etc.) Not forgetful. [french or
medieval latin: related to *retain]
Rethink —v. (past and past part. Rethought) consider again, esp. With a view to
making changes. —n. Reassessment; rethinking.
Retina n. (pl. -s or -nae) layer at the back of the eyeball sensitive to light. retinal
adj. [latin rete net]
Retirement pension n. Pension paid by the state to retired people above a certain
age.
Retort1 —n. Incisive, witty, or angry reply. —v. 1 a say by way of a retort. B
make a retort. 2 repay (an insult or attack) in kind. [latin retorqueo -tort-twist]
Retort2 —n. 1 vessel with a long neck turned downwards, used in distilling
liquids. 2 vessel for heating coal to generate gas. —v. Purify (mercury) by
heating in a retort. [medieval latin: related to *retort1]
heating in a retort. [medieval latin: related to *retort1]
Retrace v. (-cing) 1 go back over (one’s steps etc.). 2 trace back to a source or
beginning. 3 recall the course of (a thing) in one’s memory.
Retread —v. 1 (past retrod; past part. Retrodden) tread (a path etc.) Again. 2
(past, past part. Retreaded) put a fresh tread on (a tyre). —n. Retreaded tyre.
Retribution n. Requital, usu. For evil done; vengeance. retributive adj. [latin:
related to *tribute]
Retro slang —adj. Reviving or harking back to the past. —n. Retro fashion or
style.
Retro-comb. Form 1 denoting action back or in return. 2 anat. & med. Denoting
location behind. [latin]
Retrodden past part. Of *retread.
Retrospective —adj. 1 looking back on or dealing with the past. 2 (of a statute
etc.) Applying to the past as well as the future. —n. Exhibition, recital, etc.
Showing an artist’s development over his or her lifetime. retrospectively adv.
Retroverted adj. (of the womb) inclined backwards. [latin: related to *retro-,
verto turn]
Retrovirus n. Any of a group of rna viruses which form dna during the
replication of their rna, and so transfer genetic material into the dna of host cells.
[from the initial letters of reverse transcriptase + *virus]
Return —v. 1 come or go back. 2 bring, put, or send back. 3 pay back or
reciprocate; give in response. 4 yield (a profit). 5 say in reply; retort. 6 (in cricket
or tennis etc.) Hit or send (the ball) back. 7 state, mention, or describe officially,
esp. In answer to a writ or formal demand. 8 (of an electorate) elect as an mp,
government, etc. —n. 1 coming or going back. 2 a giving, sending, putting, or
paying back. B thing given or sent back. 3 (in full return ticket) ticket for a
journey to a place and back to the starting-point. 4 (in sing. Or pl.) A proceeds or
profit of an undertaking. B acquisition of these. 5 formal statement compiled or
submitted by order (income-tax return). 6 (in full return match or game) second
match etc. Between the same opponents. 7 a person’s election as an mp etc. B
returning officer’s announcement of this. by return (of post) by the next
available post in the return direction. In return as an exchange or reciprocal
action. Many happy returns (of the day) greeting on a birthday. returnable adj.
[romanic: related to *turn]
Returnee n. Person who returns home from abroad, esp. After war service.
Reuse —v. (-sing) use again. —n. Second or further use. reusable adj.
Rev colloq. —n. (in pl.) Number of revolutions of an engine per minute. —v. (-
vv-) 1 (of an engine) revolve; turn over. 2 (also absol.; often foll. By up) cause
(an engine) to run quickly. [abbreviation]
Revalue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) give a different, esp. Higher, value to (a currency
etc.). revaluation n.
Revel —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 have a good time; be extravagantly festive. 2 (foll. By
in) take keen delight in. —n. (in sing. Or pl.) Revelling. reveller n. Revelry n.
(pl. -ies). [latin: related to *rebel]
Revenue n. 1 a income, esp. A substantial one. B (in pl.) Items constituting this.
2 state’s annual income from which public expenses are met. 3 department of the
civil service collecting this. [french revenu from latin revenio return]
Revere v. (-ring) hold in deep and usu. Affectionate or religious respect. [latin
vereor fear]
Reverence —n. 1 revering or being revered. 2 capacity for revering. —v. (-cing)
regard or treat with reverence. [latin: related to *revere]
Reverse —v. (-sing) 1 turn the other way round or up or inside out. 2 change to
the opposite character or effect. 3 (cause to) travel backwards. 4 make (an engine
etc.) Work in a contrary direction. 5 revoke or annul (a decree, act, etc.). —adj. 1
backwards or upside down. 2 opposite or contrary in character or order; inverted.
—n. 1 opposite or contrary (the reverse is the case). 2 contrary of the usual
manner (printed in reverse). 3 piece of misfortune; disaster; defeat. 4 reverse
gear or motion. 5 reverse side. 6 side of a coin etc. Bearing the secondary design.
7 verso of a printed leaf. reverse arms hold a rifle with the butt upwards. Reverse
the charges have the recipient of a telephone call pay for it. reversal n.
Reversible adj. [latin verto vers-turn]
Reversing light n. White light at the rear of a vehicle showing that it is in reverse
gear.
Revert v. 1 (foll. By to) return to a former state, practice, opinion, etc. 2 (of
property, an office, etc.) Return by reversion. revertible adj. (in sense 2).
Revitalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) imbue with new life and vitality.
Revoke —v. (-king) 1 rescind, withdraw, or cancel. 2 cards fail to follow suit
when able to do so. —n. Cards revoking. revocable adj. Revocation n. [latin
voco call]
Revolt —v. 1 rise in rebellion. 2 a affect with strong disgust. B (often foll. By at,
against) feel strong disgust. —n. 1 act of rebelling. 2 state of insurrection. 3
sense of disgust. 4 mood of protest or defiance. [italian: related to *revolve]
Revolve v. (-ving) 1 (cause to) turn round, esp. On an axis; rotate. 2 move in a
circular orbit. 3 ponder (a problem etc.) In the mind. 4 (foll. By around) have as
its chief concern; be centred upon (his life revolves around his job). [latin
revolvo -volut-]
Revolving door n. Door with usu. Four partitions turning round a central axis.
Revue n. Entertainment of short usu. Satirical sketches and songs. [french:
related to *review]
Reward —n. 1 a return or recompense for service or merit. B requital for good or
evil. 2 sum offered for the detection of a criminal, restoration of lost property,
etc. —v. Give a reward to (a person) or for (a service etc.). [anglo-french
reward(er) *regard]
Rewind v. (past and past part. Rewound) wind (a film or tape etc.) Back.
Rewrite —v. (-ting; past rewrote; past part. Rewritten) write again or differently.
—n. 1 rewriting. 2 thing rewritten.
Rex n. 1 (after the name) reigning king (george rex). 2 law the crown (rex v.
Jones). [latin]
Rf symb. Rutherfordium.
Rh symb. Rhodium.
Rhesus n. (in full rhesus monkey) small n. Indian monkey. [rhesus, mythical
king of thrace]
Rhesus factor n. Antigen occurring on the red blood cells of most humans and
some other primates.
Rhetorical question n. Question used for effect but not seeking an answer (e.g.
Who cares? For nobody cares).
Rhinoceros n. (pl. Same or -roses) large thick-skinned mammal with usu. One
horn on its nose. [greek rhis rhin-nose, keras horn]
Rhizome n. Underground rootlike stem bearing both roots and shoots. [greek
rhizoma]
Rho n. Seventeenth letter of the greek alphabet (r, r). [greek]
Rhodium n. Hard white metallic element used in making alloys and plating
jewellery. [greek rhodon rose]
Rhombus n. (pl. -buses or -bi) geom. Parallelogram with oblique angles and
equal sides. [greek rhombos]
Rhyme —n. 1 identity of sound between words or their endings, esp. In verse. 2
(in sing. Or pl.) Verse or a poem having rhymes. 3 use of rhyme. 4 word
providing a rhyme. —v. (-ming) 1 a (of words or lines) produce a rhyme. B (foll.
By with) act as or treat (a word) as a rhyme (with another). 2 make or write
rhymes. 3 put or make (a story etc.) Into rhyme. rhyme or reason sense, logic.
[latin: related to *rhythm]
[latin: related to *rhythm]
Rhyming slang n. Slang that replaces words by rhyming words or phrases, e.g.
Suit by whistle and flute.
Rhythm n. 1 a periodical accent and the duration of notes in music, esp. As beats
in a bar. B type of structure formed by this (samba rhythm). 2 measured regular
flow of verse or prose determined by the length of and stress on syllables. 3
physiol. Pattern of successive strong and weak movements. 4 regularly recurring
sequence of events. rhythmic adj. Rhythmical adj. Rhythmically adv. [greek
rhuthmos]
Rhythm and blues n. Popular music with blues themes and a strong rhythm.
Rhythm section n. Piano (or guitar etc.), bass, and drums in a dance or jazz band.
Rib —n. 1 each of the curved bones joined to the spine in pairs and protecting
the chest. 2 joint of meat from this part of an animal. 3 supporting ridge, timber,
rod, etc. Across a surface or through a structure. 4 knitting combination of plain
and purl stitches producing a ribbed design. —v.
Ribbon development n. Building of houses one house deep along a road leading
out of a town or village.
Rice n. 1 swamp grass cultivated in esp. Asian marshes. 2 grains of this, used as
food. [french ris ultimately from greek oruza]
Rice-paper n. Edible paper made from the pith of an oriental tree and used for
painting and in cookery.
Rich adj. 1 having much wealth. 2 splendid, costly, elaborate. 3 valuable (rich
offerings). 4 copious, abundant, ample (rich supply of ideas). 5 (often foll. By in,
with) (of soil or a region etc.) Fertile; abundant in resources etc. (rich in
nutrients). 6 (of food or diet) containing much fat or spice etc. 7 (of the mixture
in an internal-combustion engine) containing a high proportion of fuel. 8 (of
colour, sound, or smell) mellow and deep, strong and full. 9 highly amusing or
ludicrous; outrageous. richness n. [old english and french]
Rick2 (also wrick) —n. Slight sprain or strain. —v. Sprain or strain slightly.
[low german wricken]
Ricochet —n. 1 rebounding of esp. A shell or bullet off a surface. 2 hit made
after this. —v. (-cheted; -cheting or -chetted; -chetting) (of a projectile) make a
ricochet. [french]
Ricrac n. (also rickrack) zigzag braided trimming for garments. [from *rack1]
Rid v. (-dd-; past and past part. Rid) (foll. By of) free (a person or place) of
something unwanted. be (or get) rid of be freed or relieved of; dispose of. [old
norse]
norse]
Riddle1 —n. 1 verbal puzzle or test, often with a trick answer. 2 puzzling fact,
thing, or person. —v. (-ling) speak in riddles. [old english: related to *read]
Riddle2 —v. (-ling) (usu. Foll. By with) 1 make many holes in, esp. With
gunshot. 2 (in passive) fill; permeate (riddled with errors). 3 pass through a
riddle. —n. Coarse sieve. [old english]
Ride —v. (-ding; past rode; past part. Ridden) 1 (often foll. By on, in) travel or
be carried on (a bicycle etc.) Or esp. Us in (a vehicle); be conveyed (rode her
bike; rode on her bike; rode the tram). 2 (often foll. By on; also absol.) Be
carried by (a horse etc.). 3 be carried or supported by (ship rides the waves). 4
traverse or take part in on horseback etc. (ride 50 miles; rode the prairie). 5 a lie
at anchor; float buoyantly. B (of the moon) seem to float. 6 yield to (a blow) so
as to reduce its impact. 7 give a ride to; cause to ride (rode me home). 8 (of a
rider) cause (a horse etc.) To move forward (rode their horses at the fence). 9 (as
ridden adj.) (foll. By by, with, or in comb.) Be dominated by; be infested with
(ridden with guilt; rat-ridden cellar). —n. 1 journey or spell of riding in a
vehicle, or on a horse, bicycle, person’s back, etc. 2 path (esp. Through woods)
for riding on. 3 specified kind of ride (bumpy ride). 4 amusement for riding on at
a fairground etc. let a thing ride leave it undisturbed. Ride again reappear as
strong etc. As ever. Ride high be elated or successful. Ride out come safely
through (a storm, danger, etc.). Ride roughshod over see *roughshod. Ride up
(of a garment) work upwards out of place. Take for a ride colloq. Hoax or
deceive. [old english]
Ridge —n. 1 line of the junction of two surfaces sloping upwards towards each
other (ridge of a roof). 2 long narrow hilltop, mountain range, or watershed. 3
any narrow elevation across a surface. 4 elongated region of high barometric
pressure. 5 raised strip of esp. Ploughed land. —v. (-ging) mark with ridges.
ridgy adj. [old english]
Ridicule —n. Derision, mockery. —v. (-ling) make fun of; mock; laugh at. [latin
rideo laugh]
Riding-light n. Light shown by a ship at anchor.
Riffle —v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By through) leaf quickly through (pages). 2 a
turn (pages) in quick succession. B shuffle (playing-cards), esp. By flexing and
combining the two halves of a pack. —n. 1 act of riffling. 2 us a shallow
disturbed part of a stream. B patch of waves or ripples. [perhaps var. Of *ruffle]
Riff-raff n. (often prec. By the) rabble; disreputable people. [french rif et raf]
Rifle1 —n. 1 gun with a long rifled barrel, esp. One fired from the shoulder. 2
(in pl.) Riflemen. —v. (-ling) make spiral grooves in (a gun, its barrel, or its
bore) to make a projectile spin. [french]
Rifle2 v. (-ling) (often foll. By through) 1 search and rob. 2 carry off as booty.
[french]
Rift —n. 1 crack, split; break (in cloud etc.). 2 disagreement; breach. 3 cleft in
earth or rock. —v. Tear or burst apart. [scandinavian: related to *riven]
Rig1 —v. (-gg-) 1 provide (a ship) with sails, rigging, etc. 2 (often foll. By out,
up) fit with clothes or other equipment. 3 (foll. By up) set up hastily or as a
makeshift. 4 assemble and adjust the parts of (an aircraft). —n. 1 arrangement of
a ship’s masts, sails, etc. 2 equipment for a special purpose, e.g. A radio
transmitter. 3 = *oil rig. 4 colloq. Style of dress; uniform (in full rig). rigged adj.
(also in comb.). [perhaps from scandinavian]
Rig2 —v. (-gg-) manage or fix (a result etc.) Fraudulently (rigged the election).
—n. Trick, dodge, or way of swindling. rig the market cause an artificial rise or
fall in prices. rigger n. [origin unknown]
Rigger n. 1 worker on an oil rig. 2 person who rigs or who arranges rigging.
Rigger n. 1 worker on an oil rig. 2 person who rigs or who arranges rigging.
Right —adj. 1 (of conduct etc.) Just, morally or socially correct (do the right
thing). 2 true, correct (which is the right way?). 3 suitable or preferable (right
person for the job). 4 sound or normal; healthy; satisfactory (engine doesn’t
sound right). 5 on or towards the east side of the human body, or of any object
etc., when facing north. 6 (of a side of fabric etc.) Meant for display or use. 7
colloq. Real; complete (made a right mess of it). 8 (also right) polit. Of the right.
—n. 1 that which is correct or just; fair treatment (often in pl.: rights and wrongs
of the case). 2 justification or fair claim (has no right to speak). 3 legal or moral
entitlement; authority to act (human rights; right of reply). 4 right-hand part,
region, or direction. 5 boxing a right hand. B blow with this. 6 (often right) a
conservative political group or section. B conservatives collectively. 7 side of a
stage to the right of a person facing the audience. —v. 1 (often refl.) Restore to a
proper, straight, or vertical position. 2 correct or avenge (mistakes, wrongs, etc.);
set in order; make reparation. —adv. 1 straight (go right on). 2 colloq.
Immediately (do it right now). 3 a (foll. By to, round, through, etc.) All the way
(sank right to the bottom). B (foll. By off, out, etc.) Completely (came right off
its hinges). 4 exactly, quite (right in the middle). 5 justly, properly, correctly,
truly, satisfactorily (not holding it right; if i remember right). 6 on or to the right
side. —int. Colloq. Expressing agreement or assent. by right (or rights) if right
were done. Do right by act dutifully towards (a person). In one’s own right
through one’s own position or effort etc. In the right having justice or truth on
one’s side. In one’s right mind sane. Of (or as of) right having legal or moral etc.
Entitlement. On the right side of colloq. 1 in the favour of (a person etc.). 2
somewhat less than (a specified age). Put (or set) right 1 restore to order, health,
etc. 2 correct the mistaken impression etc. Of (a person). Put (or set) to rights
make correct or well ordered. Right away (or off) immediately. Right oh! (or
ho!) = *righto. Right on! Slang expression of strong approval or encouragement.
A right one colloq. Foolish or funny person. Right you are! Colloq. Exclamation
of assent. Too right slang expression of agreement. rightness n. [old english]
Right-hand attrib. Adj. 1 on or towards the right side of a person or thing. 2 done
with the right hand. 3 (of a screw) = *right-handed 4b.
Right-handed adj. 1 naturally using the right hand for writing etc. 2 (of a tool
etc.) For use by the right hand. 3 (of a blow) struck with the right hand. 4 a
turning to the right. B (of a screw) turned clockwise to tighten. right-handedly
adv. Right-handedness n.
Right honourable n. Title given to certain high officials, e.g. Privy counsellors.
Rightward —adv. (also rightwards) towards the right. —adj. Going towards or
facing the right.
Rigid adj. 1 not flexible; unbendable. 2 (of a person, conduct, etc.) Inflexible,
unbending, harsh. rigidity n. Rigidly adv. Rigidness n. [latin rigidus from rigeo
be stiff]
Rigorous adj. 1 firm; strict, severe. 2 strictly exact or accurate. rigorously adv.
Rigorousness n. [related to *rigour]
Rigour n. (us rigor) 1 a severity, strictness, harshness. B (in pl.) Harsh measures
or conditions. 2 logical exactitude. 3 strict enforcement of rules etc. (utmost
rigour of the law). 4 austerity of life. [latin: related to *rigor1]
Rime1 —n. 1 frost. 2 hoar-frost. —v. (-ming) cover with rime. [old english]
Rind n. Tough outer layer or covering of fruit and vegetables, cheese, bacon, etc.
[old english]
Ring1 —n. 1 circular band, usu. Of metal, worn on a finger. 2 circular band of
any material. 3 rim of a cylindrical or circular object, or a line or band round it. 4
mark etc. Resembling a ring (rings round his eyes; smoke rings). 5 ring in the
cross-section of a tree, produced by one year’s growth. 6 a enclosure for a circus
performance, boxing, betting at races, showing of cattle, etc. B (prec. By the)
bookmakers collectively. 7 a people or things in a circle.
Ring2 —v. (past rang; past part. Rung) 1 (often foll. By out etc.) Give a clear
resonant or vibrating sound of or as of a bell. 2 a make (esp. A bell) ring. B
(absol.) Call by ringing a bell (you rang, sir?). 3 (also absol.; often foll. By up)
call by telephone (will ring you). 4 (usu. Foll. By with, to) (of a place) resound
with a sound, fame, etc. (theatre rang with applause). 5 (of the ears) be filled
with a sensation of ringing. 6 a sound (a peal etc.) On bells. B (of a bell) sound
(the hour etc.). 7 (foll. By in, out) usher in or out with bell-ringing (rang out the
old year). 8 convey a specified impression (words rang true). —n. 1 ringing
sound or tone. 2 act or sound of ringing a bell. 3 colloq. Telephone call (give me
a ring). 4 specified feeling conveyed by words etc. (had a melancholy ring). 5 set
of esp. Church bells. ring back make a return telephone call to. Ring a bell
colloq. Begin to revive a memory. Ring down (or up) the curtain 1 cause the
curtain to be lowered or raised. 2 (foll. By on) mark the end or the beginning of
(an enterprise etc.). Ring in report or make contact by telephone. Ring off end a
telephone call. Ring round telephone several people. Ring up 1 call by
telephone. 2 record (an amount etc.) On a cash register. [old english]
Ring-dove n. Woodpigeon.
Ringer n. Bell-ringer. be a ringer (or dead ringer) for slang resemble (a person)
exactly.
Ring finger n. Third finger, esp. Of the left hand, on which a wedding ring is
usu. Worn.
Ring-pull attrib. Adj. (of a tin) having a ring for pulling to break its seal.
Ringside n. Area immediately beside a boxing or circus ring etc. (often attrib.:
ringside view).
Rink n. 1 area of ice for skating or curling etc. 2 enclosed area for roller-skating.
3 building containing either of these. 4 strip of bowling-green. 5 team in bowls
or curling. [apparently from french renc *rank1]
Rinse —v. (-sing) (often foll. By through, out) 1 wash or treat with clean water
etc. 2 wash lightly. 3 put (clothes etc.) Through clean water after washing. 4
(foll. By out, away) clear (impurities) by rinsing. —n. 1 rinsing (give it a rinse).
2 temporary hair tint (blue rinse). [french rincer]
Rip abbr. May he, she, or they rest in peace. [latin requiesca(n)t in pace]
Rip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 tear or cut (a thing) quickly or forcibly away or apart (ripped
out the lining). 2 a make (a hole etc.) By ripping. B make a long tear or cut in. 3
come violently apart; split. 4 rush along. —n. 1 long tear or cut. 2 act of ripping.
let rip colloq. 1 (allow to) proceed or act without restraint or interference. 2
speak violently. Rip into colloq. Attack (a person) verbally. Rip off colloq. 1
swindle. 2 steal. [origin unknown]
Ripe adj. 1 (of grain, fruit, cheese, etc.) Ready to be reaped, picked, or eaten. 2
mature, fully developed (ripe in judgement). 3 (of a person’s age) advanced. 4
(often foll. By for) fit or ready (ripe for development). ripeness n. [old english]
Riposte —n. 1 quick retort. 2 quick return thrust in fencing. —v. (-ting) deliver a
riposte. [italian: related to *respond]
Ripper n. 1 person or thing that rips. 2 murderer who mutilates the victims’
bodies.
Ripple —n. 1 ruffling of the water’s surface, small wave or waves. 2 gentle
lively sound, e.g. Of laughter or applause. 3 wavy appearance in hair, material,
etc. 4 slight variation in the strength of a current etc. 5 ice-cream with veins of
syrup (raspberry ripple). —v. (-ling) 1 (cause to) form or flow in ripples. 2 show
or sound like ripples. ripply adj. [origin unknown]
Ripsaw n. Coarse saw for sawing wood along the grain.
Rise —v. (-sing; past rose; past part. Risen) 1 come or go up. 2 grow, project,
expand, or incline upwards; become higher. 3 appear or be visible above the
horizon. 4 get up from lying, sitting, kneeling, or from bed; become erect. 5 (of a
meeting etc.) Adjourn. 6 reach a higher position, level, amount, intensity, etc. 7
make progress socially etc. (rose from the ranks). 8 a come to the surface of
liquid. B (of a person) react to provocation (rise to the bait). 9 come to life again.
10 (of dough) swell by the action of yeast etc. 11 (often foll. By up) rebel (rise
up against them). 12 originate (river rises in the mountains). 13 (of wind) start to
blow. 14 (of a person’s spirits) become cheerful. —n. 1 rising. 2 upward slope,
hill, or movement (house stood on a rise). 3 a increase in amount, extent, sound,
pitch, etc. (rise in unemployment). B increase in salary. 4 increase in status or
power; upward progress. 5 movement of fish to the surface. 6 origin. 7 a vertical
height of a step, arch, incline, etc. B = *riser 2. get (or take) a rise out of colloq.
Provoke a reaction from (a person), esp. By teasing. On the rise on the increase.
Rise above be superior to (petty feelings, difficulties, etc.). Rise to develop
powers equal to (an occasion). [old english]
Riser n. 1 person who rises from bed (early riser). 2 vertical section between the
treads of a staircase.
Risk —n. 1 chance or possibility of danger, loss, injury, etc. (health risk; risk of
fire). 2 person or thing causing a risk or regarded in relation to risk (is a poor
risk). —v. 1 expose to risk. 2 accept the chance of (risk getting wet). 3 venture
on. at risk exposed to danger. At one’s (own) risk accepting responsibility,
agreeing to make no claims. At the risk of with the possibility of (an adverse
consequence). Put at risk expose to danger. Run a (or the) risk (often foll. By of)
expose oneself to danger or loss etc. Take a risk (or risks) chance the possibility
of danger etc. [french risque(r) from italian]
Risky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 involving risk. 2 = *risqué. riskily adv. Riskiness n.
Risotto n. (pl. -s) italian savoury rice dish cooked in stock. [italian]
Risqué adj. (of a story etc.) Slightly indecent. [french: related to *risk]
Rite of passage n. (often in pl.) Event marking a change or stage in life, e.g.
Marriage.
Ritzy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. High-class, luxurious, showily smart. [from ritz,
name of luxury hotels]
Rival —n. (often attrib.) 1 person competing with another. 2 person or thing that
equals another in quality. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) be, seem, or claim to be the rival of or
comparable to. [latin rivus stream]
Riven adj. Literary split, torn. [past part. Of rive from old norse]
River n. 1 copious natural stream of water flowing to the sea or a lake etc. 2
copious flow (rivers of blood). sell down the river colloq. Betray or let down.
[latin ripa bank]
Rivet —n. Nail or bolt for joining metal plates etc., with the headless end beaten
out when in place. —v. (-t-) 1 a join or fasten with rivets. B beat out or press
down the end of (a nail or bolt). C fix, make immovable. 2 a (foll. By on, upon)
direct intently (one’s eyes or attention etc.). B (esp. As riveting adj.) Engross (a
person or the attention). [french river fasten]
Rn symb. Radon.
Roach n. (pl. Same or -es) small freshwater fish of the carp family. [french]
Road n. 1 a way with a prepared surface, for vehicles, pedestrians, etc. B part of
this for vehicles only (step out into the road). 2 one’s way or route. 3 (usu. In pl.)
Piece of water near the shore in which ships can ride at anchor. any road dial. =
*anyway 2, 3. Get out of the (or my etc.) Road dial. Stop obstructing a person. In
the (or one’s) road dial. Forming an obstruction. One for the road colloq. Final
(esp. Alcoholic) drink before departure. On the road travelling, esp.
Road fund licence n. Disc displayed on a vehicle certifying payment of road tax.
Roadstead n. = *road 3.
Roan —adj. (of esp. A horse) having a coat thickly interspersed with hairs of
another colour. —n. Roan animal. [french]
Roar —n. 1 a loud deep hoarse sound, as made by a lion. B similar sound. 2 loud
laugh. —v. 1 (often foll. By out) utter loudly or make a roar, roaring laugh, etc. 2
travel in a vehicle at high speed, esp. With the engine roaring. [old english]
Roaring forties n.pl. Stormy ocean tracts between lat. 40° and 50° s.
Roast —v. 1 a cook (food, esp. Meat) or (of food) be cooked in an oven or by
open heat (roast chestnuts). B heat (coffee beans) before grinding. 2 refl. Expose
(oneself etc.) To fire or heat. 3 criticize severely, denounce. —attrib. Adj.
Roasted (roast beef). —n. 1 a roast meat. B dish of this. C piece of meat for
roasting. 2 process of roasting. [french rost(ir) from germanic]
Roaster n. 1 oven, dish, apparatus, etc. For roasting. 2 fowl, potato, etc. For
roasting.
Rob v. (-bb-) (often foll. By of) 1 (also absol.) Take unlawfully from, esp. By
force or threat (robbed the safe; robbed her of her jewels). 2 deprive of what is
due or normal (robbed of sleep). robber n. [french rob(b)er from germanic]
Robe —n. 1 a long loose outer garment. B (often in pl.) This worn as an
indication of rank, office, profession, etc. 2 esp. Us dressing-gown. —v. (-bing)
clothe in a robe; dress. [french]
Robin hood n. Person who steals from the rich to give to the poor.
Robinia n. Any of various n. American trees or shrubs, e.g. A locust tree or false
acacia. [robin, name of a french gardener]
Robotics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Art, science, or study of robot design and
operation.
Robust adj. (-er, -est) 1 strong and sturdy, esp. In physique or construction. 2 (of
exercise, discipline, etc.) Vigorous, requiring strength. 3 (of mental attitude,
argument, etc.) Straightforward, vigorous. 4 (of a statement, reply, etc.) Bold,
firm, unyielding. robustly adv. Robustness n. [latin robur strength]
Rock1 n. 1 a hard material of the earth’s crust, often exposed on the surface. B
similar material on other planets. 2 geol. Any natural material, hard or soft (e.g.
Clay), consisting of one or more minerals. 3 a projecting rock forming a hill,
cliff, reef, etc. B (the rock) gibraltar. 4 large detached stone. 5 us stone of any
size. 6 firm and dependable support or protection. 7 hard sweet usu. In the form
of a peppermint-flavoured stick. 8 slang precious stone, esp. A diamond. get
one’s rocks off coarse slang achieve (esp. Sexual) satisfaction. On the rocks
colloq. 1 short of money. 2 (of a marriage etc.) Broken down. 3 (of a drink)
served neat with ice-cubes. [french roque, roche]
Rock2 —v. 1 move gently to and fro; set, maintain, or be in, such motion. 2
(cause to) sway; shake, oscillate, reel. 3 distress, perturb (rocked by the news).
—n. 1 rocking movement. 2 spell of this. 3 a = *rock and roll. B rock and roll-
influenced popular music. rock the boat colloq. Disturb a stable situation. [old
english]
Rock and roll n. (also rock ‘n’ roll) popular dance-music originating in the 1950s
with a heavy beat and often a blues element.
Rock-bottom —adj. (of prices etc.) The very lowest. —n. Very lowest level.
Rocker n. 1 curved bar etc. On which something can rock. 2 rocking-chair. 3
devotee of rock music, esp. A leather-clad motor cyclist. 4 a device for rocking.
B pivoted switch operating between ‘on’ and ‘off’ positions. off one’s rocker
slang crazy.
Rockery n. (pl. -ies) construction of stones with soil between them for growing
rock-plants on.
Rocket —n. 1 cylindrical firework or signal etc. Propelled to a great height after
ignition. 2 engine operating on the same principle, providing thrust but not
dependent on air intake. 3 rocket-propelled missile, spacecraft, etc. 4 slang
severe reprimand. —v. (-t-) 1 a move rapidly upwards or away. B increase
rapidly (prices rocketed). 2 bombard with rockets. [french roquette from italian]
Rock-garden n. = *rockery.
Rocky1 adj. (-ier, -iest) of, like, or full of rock or rocks. rockiness n.
Rod n. 1 slender straight cylindrical bar or stick. 2 a cane for flogging. B (prec.
By the) use of this. 3 = *fishing-rod. 4 hist. (as a measure) perch or square perch
(see *perch1). make a rod for one’s own back make trouble for oneself. [old
english]
Rodent n. Mammal with strong incisors and no canine teeth, e.g. The rat, mouse,
squirrel, beaver, and porcupine. [latin rodo gnaw]
Rodeo n. (pl. -s) 1 exhibition of cowboys’ skills in handling animals. 2 round-up
of cattle on a ranch for branding etc. [spanish]
Roe1 n. 1 (also hard roe) mass of eggs in a female fish’s ovary. 2 (also soft roe)
milt of a male fish. [low german or dutch]
Roe2 n. (pl. Same or -s) (also roe-deer) small kind of deer. [old english]
Rogation n. (usu. In pl.) Litany of the saints chanted on the three days before
ascension day. [latin rogo ask]
Roger int. 1 your message has been received and understood (used in radio
communication etc.). 2 slang i agree. [from the name, code for r]
Role n. (also rôle) 1 actor’s part in a play, film, etc. 2 person’s or thing’s
function. [french: related to *roll]
Roll —v. 1 (cause to) move or go in some direction by turning on an axis (ball
rolled under the table; rolled the barrel into the cellar). 2 a make cylindrical or
spherical by revolving between two surfaces or over on itself (rolled a
newspaper). B make thus (rolled a cigarette). C gather into a mass or shape
(rolled the dough into a ball; rolled himself into a ball). 3 (often foll. By along,
by, etc.) (cause to) move, advance, or be conveyed on or (of time etc.) As if on
wheels etc. (bus rolled past; rolled the tea trolley; years rolled by; rolled by in his
car). 4 flatten or form by passing a roller etc. Over or by passing between rollers
(roll the lawn; roll pastry). 5 rotate (his eyes rolled; he rolled his eyes). 6 a
wallow (dog rolled in the dust). B (of a horse etc.) Lie on its back and kick
about. 7 (of a moving ship, aircraft, vehicle, or person) sway to and fro sideways
or walk unsteadily (rolled out of the pub). 8 a undulate (rolling hills; rolling
mist). B carry or propel with undulations (river rolls its waters to the sea). 9
(cause to) start functioning or moving (cameras rolled). 10 sound or utter with
vibrations or a trill (thunder rolled; rolls his rs). —n. 1 rolling motion or gait;
undulation (roll of the hills). 2 a spell of rolling (roll in the mud).
Roller bearing n. Bearing like a ball-bearing but with small cylinders instead of
balls.
Roller-skate —n. Metal frame with small wheels, fitted to shoes for riding on a
hard surface. —v. (-ting) move on roller-skates. roller-skater n.
Rollmop n. Rolled uncooked pickled herring fillet. [german rollmops]
Roll-on —attrib. Adj. (of deodorant etc.) Applied by means of a rotating ball in
the neck of the container. —n. Light elastic corset.
Roll-on roll-off adj. (of a ship, etc.) In which vehicles are driven directly on and
off.
Roly-poly —n. (pl. -ies) (also roly-poly pudding) pudding made of a rolled strip
of suet pastry covered with jam etc. And boiled or baked. —adj. Podgy, plump.
[probably *roll]
Roman —adj. 1 of ancient rome, its territory, people, etc. 2 of medieval or
modern rome. 3 = *roman catholic. 4 (roman) (of type) plain and upright, used
in ordinary print. 5 (of the alphabet etc.) Based on the ancient roman system with
letters a–z. —n. 1 citizen or soldier of the ancient roman republic or empire. 2
citizen of modern rome. 3 = *roman catholic. 4 (roman) roman type. [latin]
Roman catholic —adj. Of the part of the christian church acknowledging the
pope as its head. —n. Member of this church. roman catholicism n.
Usage the alternative pronunciation given for the noun, with the stress on the
first syllable, is considered incorrect by some people.
Roman law n. Law-code of ancient rome, forming the basis of many modern
codes.
Romany —n. (pl. -ies) 1 gypsy. 2 language of the gypsies. —adj. Of gypsies or
the romany language. [romany rom gypsy]
Romp —v. 1 play roughly and energetically. 2 (foll. By along, past, etc.) Colloq.
Proceed without effort. —n. Spell of romping. romp in (or home) colloq. Win
easily. [perhaps from *ramp]
Rompers n. Pl. (also romper suit) young child’s one-piece garment covering the
legs and trunk.
Rondeau n. (pl. Rondeaux pronunc. Same or) poem of ten or thirteen lines with
only two rhymes throughout and with the opening words used twice as a refrain.
[french: related to *rondel]
[french: related to *rondel]
Rondel n. Rondeau, esp. One of special form. [french: related to *round: cf.
*roundel]
Rondo n. (pl. -s) musical form with a recurring leading theme. [french *rondeau]
Roof —n. (pl. -s) 1 a upper covering of a building. B top of a covered vehicle. C
top inner surface of an oven, refrigerator, etc. 2 overhead rock in a cave or mine
etc. —v. 1 (often foll. By in, over) cover with or as with a roof. 2 be the roof of.
go through the roof colloq. (of prices etc.) Rise dramatically. Hit (or go through)
the roof colloq. Become very angry. [old english]
Roof of the mouth n. Palate.
Rooftop n. 1 outer surface of a roof. 2 (in pl.) Tops of houses etc. shout it from
the rooftops make a thing embarrassingly public.
Rook1 —n. Black bird of the crow family nesting in colonies. —v. 1 colloq.
Charge (a customer) extortionately. 2 win money at cards etc., esp. By
swindling. [old english]
Room —n. 1 space for, or occupied by, something; capacity (takes up too much
room; room for improvement). 2 a part of a building enclosed by walls, floor,
and ceiling. B (in pl.) Apartments or lodgings. C people in a room (room fell
silent). —v. Us have room(s); lodge, board. [old english]
Rooming-house n. Lodging house.
Roost —n. Branch or perch for a bird, esp. To sleep. —v. Settle for rest or sleep.
come home to roost (of a scheme etc.) Recoil unfavourably. [old english hrost]
Rope —n. 1 a stout cord made by twisting together strands of hemp, wire, etc. B
piece of this. 2 (foll. By of) quantity of onions, pearls, etc. Strung together. 3
(prec. By the) a halter for hanging a person. B execution by hanging. —v. (-
ping) 1 fasten, secure, or catch with rope. 2 (usu. Foll. By off, in) enclose with
rope. 3 mountaineering connect with or attach to a rope. know (or learn or show)
the ropes know (or learn or show) how to do a thing properly. Rope in persuade
to take part. Rope into persuade to take part in (roped into washing up). [old
english]
Ropy adj. (also ropey) (-ier, -iest) colloq. Poor in quality. ropiness n.
Roquefort n. Propr. Soft blue cheese made from ewes’ milk. [roquefort in
france]
Rosaceous adj. Of a large plant family including the rose. [latin: related to
*rose1]
Rosary n. (pl. -ies) 1 rc ch. Repeated sequence of prayers. 2 string of beads for
keeping count in this. [latin rosarium rose-garden]
Rose1 —n. 1 prickly bush or shrub bearing usu. Fragrant red, pink, yellow, or
white flowers. 2 this flower. 3 flowering plant resembling this (christmas rose). 4
a pinkish-red colour. B (usu. In pl.) Rosy complexion (roses in her cheeks). 5
sprinkling-nozzle of a watering-can etc. 6 circular electric light mounting on a
ceiling. 7 a representation of a rose in heraldry etc. B rose-shaped design. 8 (in
pl.) Used to express luck, ease, success, etc. (roses all the way; everything’s
roses). —adj. = *rose-coloured 1. [latin rosa]
Rose-hip n. = *hip2.
Rosemary n. Evergreen fragrant shrub used as a herb. [rosmarine from latin ros
dew: related to *marine]
Rosin —n. Resin, esp. In solid form. —v. (-n-) rub (esp. A violin bow etc.) With
rosin. [alteration of *resin]
Roster —n. List or plan of turns of duty etc. —v. Place on a roster. [dutch
rooster, literally ‘gridiron’]
Rosy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 pink or red. 2 optimistic, hopeful (rosy future). rosily adv.
Rosiness n.
Rot —v. (-tt-) 1 (of animal or vegetable matter) lose its original form by the
chemical action of bacteria, fungi, etc.; decay. 2 gradually perish or waste away
(left to rot in prison). 3 cause to rot, make rotten. —n. 1 rotting; decay. 2 slang
nonsense (talks rot). 3 decline in standards etc. (rot set in). —int. Expressing
incredulity or ridicule. [old english]
Rotary —adj. Acting by rotation (rotary drill). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 rotary machine. 2
(rotary) (in full rotary international) worldwide charitable society of
businessmen, orig. Entertaining in rotation. [medieval latin: related to *rota]
Rotate v. (-ting) 1 move round an axis or centre, revolve. 2 take or arrange (esp.
Crops) in rotation. 3 act or take place in rotation (chairmanship will rotate).
rotatable adj. Rotatory adj. [latin: related to *rota]
Rotation n. 1 rotating or being rotated. 2 recurrence; recurrent series or period;
regular succession. 3 the growing of different crops in regular order to avoid
exhausting the soil. rotational adj.
Rotavator n. (also rotovator) propr. Machine with a rotating blade for breaking
up or tilling the soil. [from rotary, cultivator]
Rote n. (usu. Prec. By by; also attrib.) Mechanical or habitual repetition (in order
to memorize) (rote learning). [origin unknown]
Rotten adj. (-er, -est) 1 rotting or rotted; fragile from age or use. 2 morally or
politically corrupt. 3 slang a disagreeable, unpleasant, bad (had a rotten time). B
worthless (rotten idea). C ill (feel rotten). rottenly adv. Rottenness n. [old norse:
related to *rot]
Rotunda n. Circular building, hall, or room, esp. Domed. [italian rotonda: related
to *rotund]
Rouble n. (also ruble) chief monetary unit of russia etc. [french from russian]
Rouge —n. Red cosmetic for colouring the cheeks. —v. (-ging) 1 colour with or
apply rouge. 2 become red, blush. [latin rubeus red]
Roughcast —n. (often attrib.) Plaster of lime and gravel, used on outside walls.
—adj. (of a plan etc.) Roughly formed, preliminary. —v. (past and past part. -
cast) 1 coat with roughcast. 2 prepare in outline.
Rough-hewn adj. Uncouth, unrefined.
Roughshod adj. (of a horse) having shoes with nail-heads projecting to prevent
slipping. ride roughshod over treat inconsiderately or arrogantly.
Roulade n. 1 rolled piece of meat, sponge, etc. With a filling. 2 quick succession
of notes, usu. Sung to one syllable. [french rouler roll]
Round dance n. Dance in which couples move in circles or dancers form one
large circle.
Roundel n. 1 circular mark, esp. Identifying military aircraft. 2 small disc, esp. A
medallion. [french rondel(le): related to *round]
Rounder n. 1 (in pl.; treated as sing.) Ball game in which players hit the ball and
run through a round of bases. 2 complete run as a unit of scoring in rounders.
Roundhead n. Hist. Member of the parliamentary party in the english civil war.
Roundhead n. Hist. Member of the parliamentary party in the english civil war.
Round robin n. 1 petition, esp. With signatures in a circle to conceal the order of
writing. 2 us tournament in which each competitor plays every other.
Rouse v. (-sing) 1 (cause to) wake. 2 (often foll. By up, often refl.) Stir up, make
or become active or excited (was roused to protest). 3 anger (terrible when
roused). 4 evoke (feelings). [origin unknown]
Route —n. Way or course taken (esp. Regularly) from one place to another. —v.
(-teing) send, forward, or direct by a particular route. [french route road, from
latin rupta (via)]
Roux n. (pl. Same) mixture of fat and flour used in sauces etc. [french]
Rove1 v. (-ving) 1 wander without settling; roam, ramble. 2 (of eyes) look about.
[probably scandinavian]
[probably scandinavian]
Rover1 n. Wanderer.
Row1 n. 1 line of persons or things. 2 line of seats across a theatre etc. 3 street
with houses along one or each side. in a row 1 forming a row. 2 colloq. In
succession (two days in a row). [old english]
Row2 —v. 1 (often absol.) Propel (a boat) with oars. 2 convey (a passenger)
thus. —n. 1 spell of rowing. 2 trip in a rowing-boat. rower n. [old english]
Rowan n. (in full rowan-tree) 1 scot. & n.engl. Mountain ash. 2 (in full rowan-
berry) its scarlet berry. [scandinavian]
Row-boat n. Us = *rowing-boat.
Rowdy —adj. (-ier, -iest) noisy and disorderly. —n. (pl. -ies) rowdy person.
rowdily adv. Rowdiness n. Rowdyism n. [origin unknown]
Rowel n. Spiked revolving disc at the end of a spur. [latin rotella diminutive:
related to *rota]
Rowlock n. Device on a boat’s side for holding an oar in place. [oarlock from
old english: related to oar, lock1]
Royal —adj. 1 of, suited to, or worthy of a king or queen. 2 in the service or
under the patronage of a king or queen. 3 of the family of a king or queen. 4
majestic, splendid. 5 exceptional, first-rate (had a royal time). —n. Colloq.
Member of the royal family. royally adv. [latin: related to *regal]
Royal blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) deep vivid blue.
Royalist n. Supporter of monarchy, or hist. Of the royal side in the english civil
war. royalism n.
Royal jelly n. Substance secreted by worker bees and fed by them to future
queen bees.
Royalty n. (pl. -ies) 1 royal office, dignity, or power; being royal. 2 a royal
persons. B member of a royal family. 3 percentage of profit from a book, public
performance, patent, etc. Paid to the author etc. 4 a royal right (now esp. Over
minerals) granted by the sovereign. B payment made by a producer of minerals
etc. To the owner of the site etc. [french: related to *royal]
Rsa abbr. 1 royal society of arts. 2 royal scottish academy; royal scottish
academician.
Rsvp abbr. (in an invitation etc.) Please answer. [french répondez s’il vous plaît]
Ru symb. Ruthenium.
Rub —v. (-bb-) 1 move something, esp. One’s hand, with firm pressure over the
surface of. 2 (usu. Foll. By against, in, on, over) apply (one’s hand etc.) In this
way. 3 clean, polish, chafe, or make dry, sore, or bare by rubbing. 4 (foll. By in,
into, through, over) apply (polish etc.) By rubbing. 5 (often foll. By together,
against, on) move with contact or friction or slide (objects) against each other. 6
(of cloth, skin, etc.) Become frayed, worn, sore, or bare with friction. —n. 1 act
or spell of rubbing (give it a rub). 2 impediment or difficulty (there’s the rub).
rub along colloq. Cope or manage routinely. Rub down dry, smooth, or clean by
rubbing. Rub it in (or rub a person’s nose in it) emphasize or repeat an
embarrassing fact etc. Rub off 1 (usu. Foll. By on) be transferred by contact, be
transmitted (his attitudes have rubbed off on me). 2 remove by rubbing. Rub out
erase with a rubber. Rub shoulders with associate with. Rub up 1 polish. 2 brush
up (a subject or one’s memory). Rub up the wrong way irritate. [low german]
Rubber2 n. Match of esp. Three successive games between the same sides or
persons at whist, bridge, cricket, etc. [origin unknown]
Rubber stamp —n. 1 device for inking and imprinting on a surface. 2 a person
who mechanically copies or endorses others’ actions. B indication of such
endorsement. —v. (rubber-stamp) approve automatically.
Rubbish —n. 1 waste material; refuse, litter. 2 worthless material; trash. 3 (often
as int.) Nonsense. —v. Colloq. Criticize contemptuously. rubbishy adj. [anglo-
french rubbous]
Rubicon n. Boundary; point from which there is no going back. [rubicon, river
on ancient frontier of italy]
Rubicund adj. (of a face, complexion, etc.) Ruddy, high-coloured. [latin rubeo be
Rubicund adj. (of a face, complexion, etc.) Ruddy, high-coloured. [latin rubeo be
red]
Ruby —n. (pl. -ies) 1 rare precious stone varying in colour from deep crimson to
pale rose. 2 deep red colour. —adj. Of this colour. [latin rubeus red]
Ruck1 n. 1 (prec. By the) main body of competitors not likely to overtake the
Ruck1 n. 1 (prec. By the) main body of competitors not likely to overtake the
leaders. 2 undistinguished crowd or group. 3 rugby loose scrum. [apparently
scandinavian]
Ruck2 —v. (often foll. By up) make or become creased or wrinkled. —n. Crease
or wrinkle. [old norse]
Rudder n. Flat piece hinged vertically to the stern of a ship or on the tailplane of
an aircraft etc., for steering. rudderless adj. [old english]
Ruddy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a person, complexion, etc.) Freshly or healthily red.
2 reddish. 3 colloq. Bloody, damnable. ruddily adv. Ruddiness n. [old english]
Rude adj. 1 impolite or offensive. 2 roughly made or done; crude (rude plough).
3 primitive or uneducated (rude simplicity). 4 abrupt, sudden, startling (rude
awakening). 5 colloq. Indecent, lewd (rude joke). 6 vigorous or hearty (rude
health). rudely adv. Rudeness n. [latin rudis]
Rue1 v. (rues, rued, rueing or ruing) repent of; wish to be undone or non-existent
(esp. Rue the day). [old english]
Ruff1 n. 1 projecting starched frill worn round the neck, esp. In the 16th c. 2
projecting or coloured ring of feathers or hair round a bird’s or animal’s neck. 3
domestic pigeon. 4 (fem. Reeve) wading bird with a ruff. [perhaps = *rough]
Ruffle —v. (-ling) 1 a disturb the smoothness or tranquillity of. B undergo this. 2
gather (lace etc.) Into a ruffle. 3 (often foll. By up) (of a bird) erect (its feathers)
in anger, display, etc. —n. Frill of lace etc., esp. Round the wrist or neck. [origin
unknown]
Rug n. 1 thick floor covering, usu. Smaller than a carpet. 2 thick woollen
coverlet or wrap. pull the rug from under deprive of support; weaken, unsettle.
[probably scandinavian]
Rugby n. (in full rugby football) team game played with an oval ball that may be
kicked or carried. [rugby school, where it was first played]
Rum2 adj. (rummer, rummest) colloq. Odd, strange, queer. [origin unknown]
Rumba n. 1 latin american ballroom dance orig. From cuba. 2 music for this.
[american spanish]
Ruminant —n. Animal that chews the cud. —adj. 1 of ruminants. 2 meditative.
[related to *ruminate]
Rummage —v. (-ging) 1 search, esp. Unsystematically. 2 (foll. By out, up) find
among other things. —n. Rummaging. [french arrumage from arrumer stow
cargo]
Rumor (brit. Rumour) —n. (often foll. By of or that) general talk, assertion, or
hearsay of doubtful accuracy (heard a rumour that you are leaving). —v. (usu. In
passive) report by way of rumour (it is rumoured that you are leaving). [latin
rumor noise]
Rumour (us rumor) —n. (often foll. By of or that) general talk, assertion, or
hearsay of doubtful accuracy (heard a rumour that you are leaving). —v. (usu. In
passive) report by way of rumour (it is rumoured that you are leaving).
Run —v. (-nn-; past ran; past part. Run) 1 go with quick steps, never having both
or all feet on the ground at once. 2 flee, abscond. 3 go or travel hurriedly or
briefly (i’ll just run down to the shops). 4 a advance by or as by rolling or on
wheels, or smoothly or easily. B (cause to) be in action or operation or go in a
specified way (left the engine running; ran the car into a tree). 5 be current or
operative (lease runs for 99 years). 6 travel on its route (train is running late). 7
(of a play etc.) Be staged or presented (now running at the apollo). 8 extend;
have a course, order, or tendency (road runs by the coast; prices are running
high). 9 a (often absol.) Compete in (a race). B finish a race in a specified
position. 10 (often foll. By for) seek election (ran for president). 11 flow (with)
or be wet; drip (with) (walls running with condensation). 12 a cause (water etc.)
To flow. B fill (a bath) thus. 13 spread rapidly (ink ran over the table). 14
traverse (a course, race, or distance). 15 perform (an errand). 16 publish (an
article etc.) In a newspaper etc. 17 direct or manage (a business etc.). 18 own
and use (a vehicle) regularly. 19 transport in a private vehicle (ran me to the
station). 20 enter (a horse etc.) For a race. 21 smuggle (guns etc.). 22 chase or
hunt. 23 allow (an account) to accumulate before paying. 24 (of a dyed colour)
spread from the dyed parts. 25 a (of a thought, the eye, the memory, etc.) Pass
quickly (ideas ran through my mind). B pass (one’s eye) quickly (ran my eye
down the page). 26 (of tights etc.) Ladder. 27 (of esp. The eyes or nose) exude
liquid. —n. 1 running. 2 short excursion. 3 distance travelled. 4 general
tendency. 5 regular route. 6 continuous stretch, spell, or course (run of bad luck).
7 (often foll. By on) high general demand (run on the dollar). 8 quantity
produced at one time (print run). 9 average type or class (general run of
customers). 10 point scored in cricket or baseball. 11 (foll. By of) free use of or
access to (run of the house). 12 a animal’s regular track. B enclosure for fowls
etc. C range of pasture. 13 ladder in tights etc. 14 mus. Rapid scale passage. 15
(in full the runs) colloq. Diarrhoea. on the run fleeing. Run about 1 bustle, hurry.
2 (esp. Of children) play freely. Run across happen to meet or find. Run after 1
pursue at a run. 2 pursue, esp. Sexually. Run along colloq. Depart. Run around 1
take from place to place by car etc. 2 (often foll. By with) slang engage in esp.
Promiscuous sexual relations. Run away 1 (often foll. By from) flee, abscond. 2
mentally evade (a problem etc.). Run away with 1 carry off. 2 win easily. 3
deprive of self-control, carry away. 4 consume (money etc.). 5 (of a horse) bolt
with (a rider etc.). 6 leave home to have a relationship with (esp. Another
person’s husband or wife). Run down 1 knock down. 2 reduce the numbers etc.
Of. 3 (of an unwound clock etc.) Stop. 4 discover after a search. 5 colloq.
Disparage. Run dry 1 cease to flow. 2 = run out 1. Run for it seek safety by
fleeing. Run (or good run) for one’s money 1 vigorous or close competition. 2
some return for outlay or effort. Run the gauntlet see *gauntlet2. Run high (of
feelings) be strong. Run in 1 run (an engine or vehicle) carefully when new. 2
colloq. Arrest. Run in the family (of a trait) be common in a family. Run into 1
collide with. 2 encounter. 3 reach as many as (a usu. High figure). Run into the
ground colloq.
Runner n. 1 person, horse, etc. That runs, esp. In a race. 2 creeping rooting plant-
stem. 3 rod, groove, roller, or blade on which a thing, e.g. A sledge, slides. 4
sliding ring on a rod etc. 5 messenger. 6 (in full runner bean) twining bean plant
with long flat green edible seed pods. 7 long narrow ornamental cloth or rug. do
a runner slang leave hastily; flee.
Running —n. 1 action of runners in a race etc. 2 way a race etc. Proceeds. —adj.
1 continuous (running battle). 2 consecutive (three days running). 3 done with a
run (running jump). in (or out of) the running (of a competitor) with a good (or
poor) chance of success. Make (or take up) the running take the lead; set the
pace. Take a running jump (esp. As int.) Slang go away.
Running knot n. Knot that slips along a rope etc. To allow tightening etc.
Runway n. Specially prepared surface for aircraft taking off and landing.
Rural adj. In, of, or suggesting the country (rural seclusion). [latin rus rur-the
country]
Rush1 —v. 1 go, move, flow, or act precipitately or with great speed. 2 move or
transport with great haste (was rushed to hospital). 3 (foll. By at) a move
suddenly towards. B begin or attack impetuously. 4 perform or deal with
hurriedly (don’t rush your dinner). 5 force or induce (a person) to act hastily. 6
attack or capture by sudden assault. 7 slang overcharge (a customer). —n. 1 a
rushing; violent or speedy advance or attack. B sudden flow, flood. 2 period of
great activity. 3 (attrib.) Done with great haste or speed (a rush job). 4 sudden
migration of large numbers. 5 (foll. By on, for) sudden strong demand for a
commodity. 6 (in pl.) Colloq. First uncut prints of a film. [french ruser: related to
commodity. 6 (in pl.) Colloq. First uncut prints of a film. [french ruser: related to
*ruse]
Rush2 n. 1 marsh plant with slender tapering pith-filled stems, used for making
chair-bottoms, baskets, etc. 2 stem of this. rushy adj. [old english]
Rush hour n. (often hyphenated when attrib.) Time(s) each day when traffic is
heaviest.
Rusk n. Slice of bread rebaked as a light biscuit, esp. As baby food. [spanish or
portuguese rosca twist]
Russian —n. 1 a native or national of russia or (loosely) the former soviet union.
B person of russian descent. 2 language of russia. —adj. 1 of russia or (loosely)
the former soviet union or its people. 2 of or in russian.
Russian roulette n. Firing of a revolver, with one chamber loaded, at one’s head,
after spinning the chamber.
Russian salad n. Salad of mixed diced vegetables with mayonnaise.
Rust —n. 1 reddish corrosive coating formed on iron, steel, etc. By oxidation,
esp. When wet. 2 fungal plant-disease with rust-coloured spots. 3 impaired state
due to disuse or inactivity. 4 reddish-brown. —v. 1 affect or be affected with
rust. 2 become impaired through disuse. [old english]
Rustle —v. (-ling) 1 (cause to) make a gentle sound as of dry blown leaves. 2
(also absol.) Steal (cattle or horses). —n. Rustling sound. rustle up colloq.
Produce at short notice. rustler n. (esp. In sense 2 of v.). [imitative]
Rusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 rusted or affected by rust. 2 stiff with age or disuse. 3 (of
knowledge etc.) Impaired, esp. By neglect (my french is rusty). 4 rust-coloured.
5 (of black clothes) discoloured by age. rustiness n.
Rut1 —n. 1 deep track made by the passage of wheels. 2 established (esp.
Tedious) practice or routine (in a rut). —v. (-tt-) mark with ruts. [probably
french: related to *route]
Rut2 —n. Periodic sexual excitement of a male deer etc. —v. (-tt-) be affected
with rut. [latin rugio roar]
Ruthenium n. Rare hard white metallic element from platinum ores. [medieval
latin ruthenia russia]
Rye n. 1 a cereal plant. B grain of this used for bread and fodder. 2 (in full rye
whisky) whisky distilled from fermented rye. [old english]
S3 symb. Sulphur.
-s’ suffix denoting the possessive case of plural nouns and sometimes of singular
nouns ending in s (the boys’ shoes; charles’ book). [old english inflection]
‘S abbr. 1 is; has (he’s; she’s got it; john’s; charles’s). 2 us (let’s).
-‘s suffix denoting the possessive case of singular nouns and of plural nouns not
ending in -s (john’s book; book’s cover; children’s shoes).
Sabbatical —adj. (of leave) granted at intervals to a university teacher for study
or travel. —n. Period of sabbatical leave. [greek: related to *sabbath]
Sable —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 small brown-furred mammal of n. Europe and n.
Asia. 2 its skin or fur. —adj. 1 (usu. Placed after noun) heraldry black. 2 esp.
Poet. Gloomy. [slavonic]
Sachet n. 1 small bag or packet containing shampoo etc. 2 small scented bag for
perfuming drawers etc. [french diminutive: related to *sac]
Sack1 —n. 1 a large strong bag for storage or conveyance. B quantity contained
in a sack. 2 (prec. By the) colloq. Dismissal from employment. 3 (prec. By the)
us slang bed. —v. 1 put into a sack or sacks. 2 colloq. Dismiss from
employment. [latin saccus]
Sack2 —v. Plunder and destroy (a captured town etc.). —n. Such sacking.
[french mettre à sac put in a sack]
Sack3 n. Hist. White wine from spain and the canaries. [french vin sec dry wine]
Sackcloth n. 1 coarse fabric of flax or hemp used for sacks. 2 clothing for
Sackcloth n. 1 coarse fabric of flax or hemp used for sacks. 2 clothing for
penance or mourning (esp. Sackcloth and ashes).
Sacral adj. 1 anat. Of the sacrum. 2 of or for sacred rites. [latin sacrum sacred]
Sacred adj. 1 a (often foll. By to) dedicated to a god. B connected with religion
(sacred music). 2 safeguarded or required esp. By tradition; inviolable. [latin
sacer holy]
Sacristy n. (pl. -ies) room in a church where vestments, sacred vessels, etc., are
kept. [medieval latin: related to *sacred]
Sacrum n. (pl. Sacra or -s) triangular bone between the two hip-bones. [latin os
sacrum sacred bone]
Saddle —n. 1 seat of leather etc. Strapped on a horse etc. For riding. 2 bicycle
etc. Seat. 3 joint of meat consisting of the two loins. 4 ridge rising to a summit at
each end. —v. (-ling) 1 put a saddle on (a horse etc.). 2 (foll. By with) burden (a
person) with a task etc. in the saddle 1 mounted. 2 in office or control. [old
english]
Saddleback n. 1 roof of a tower with two opposite gables. 2 hill with a concave
upper outline. 3 black pig with a white stripe across the back. saddlebacked adj.
Saddle-bag n. 1 each of a pair of bags laid across the back of a horse etc. 2 bag
attached to a bicycle saddle etc.
Sadducee n. Member of a jewish sect of the time of christ that denied the
resurrection of the dead. [hebrew]
Safari n. (pl. -s) expedition, esp. In africa, to observe or hunt animals (go on
safari). [swahili from arabic safara to travel]
Safari park n. Park where wild animals are kept in the open for viewing from
vehicles.
Safe —adj. 1 free of danger or injury. 2 secure, not risky (in a safe place). 3
reliable, certain. 4 prevented from escaping or doing harm (have got him safe). 5
(also safe and sound) uninjured; with no harm done. 6 cautious, unenterprising.
—n. 1 strong lockable cabinet etc. For valuables. 2 = *meat safe. on the safe side
with a margin for error. safely adv. [french sauf from latin salvus]
Safe conduct n. 1 immunity given from arrest or harm. 2 document securing this.
Safe period n. Time during the month when conception is least likely.
Safe sex n. Sexual activity in which precautions are taken against sexually
transmitted diseases, esp. Aids.
saffron —n. 1 deep yellow food colouring and flavouring made from dried
crocus stigmas. 2 colour of this. —adj. Deep yellow. [french from arabic]
Sag —v. (-gg-) 1 sink or subside, esp. Unevenly. 2 have a downward bulge or
curve in the middle. 3 fall in price. —n. State or extent of sagging. saggy adj.
[low german or dutch]
Sagacious adj. Showing insight or good judgement. sagacity n. [latin sagax -acis]
Sage1 n. Culinary herb with dull greyish-green leaves. [french from latin
*salvia]
Sage2 —n. Often iron. Wise man. —adj. Wise, judicious, experienced. sagely
adv. [french from latin sapio be wise]
Sagittarius n. (pl. -es) 1 constellation and ninth sign of the zodiac (the archer). 2
person born when the sun is in this sign. sagittarian adj. & n. [latin, = archer]
Sago n. (pl. -s) 1 a starch used in puddings etc. 2 (in full sago palm) any of
several tropical palms and cycads yielding this. [malay]
Sahib n. Hist. (in india) form of address to european man. [arabic, = lord]
Sail —n. 1 piece of material extended on rigging to catch the wind and propel a
boat or ship. 2 ship’s sails collectively. 3 voyage or excursion in a sailing-boat. 4
ship, esp. As discerned from its sails. 5 wind-catching apparatus of a windmill.
—v. 1 travel on water by the use of sails or engine-power. 2 begin a voyage
(sails at nine). 3 a navigate (a ship etc.). B travel on (a sea). 4 set (a toy boat)
afloat. 5 glide or move smoothly or in a stately manner. 6 (often foll. By
through) colloq. Succeed easily (sailed through the exams). sail close to the wind
1 sail as nearly against the wind as possible. 2 come close to indecency or
dishonesty. Sail into colloq. Attack physically or verbally. Under sail with sails
set. [old english]
Sailor n. 1 member of a ship’s crew, esp. One below the rank of officer. 2 person
considered with regard to seasickness (a good sailor). [originally sailer: see *-
er1]
Saint —n. (abbr. St or s; pl. Sts or ss) 1 holy or (in some churches) formally
canonized person regarded as worthy of special veneration. 2 very virtuous
person. —v. (as sainted adj.) Saintly. sainthood n. Saintlike adj. [latin sanctus
holy]
St bernard n. (in full st bernard dog) very large dog of a breed orig. Kept in the
alps to rescue travellers.
Sake1 n. for christ’s (or god’s or goodness’ or heaven’s or pete’s etc.) Sake
expression of impatience, supplication, anger, etc. For the sake of (or for one’s
sake) out of consideration for; in the interest of; because of; in order to please,
honour, get, or keep. [old english]
Salaam —n. 1 (chiefly as a muslim greeting) peace! 2 muslim low bow with the
right palm on the forehead. 3 (in pl.) Respectful compliments. —v. Make a
salaam (to). [arabic]
Salad n. Cold mixture of usu. Raw vegetables, often with a dressing. [french
salade from latin sal salt]
Sal ammoniac n. Ammonium chloride, a white crystalline salt. [latin sal salt,
ammoniacus of jupiter ammon]
Salary —n. (pl. -ies) fixed regular wages, usu. Monthly or quarterly, esp. For
white-collar work. —v. (-ies, -ied) (usu. As salaried adj.) Pay a salary to. [latin
salarium money for buying salt]
Salicylic acid n. Chemical used as a fungicide and in aspirin and dyes. salicylate
n. [latin salix willow]
Saliva n. Colourless liquid secreted into the mouth by glands. salivary adj. [latin]
Sallow1 adj. (-er, -est) (esp. Of the skin) yellowish. [old english]
Sally (pl. -ies) —n. 1 sudden military charge; sortie. 2 excursion. 3 witticism. —
v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (usu. Foll. By out, forth) set out on a walk, journey, etc. 2 (usu.
Foll. By out) make a military sally. [french saillie from latin salio leap]
Salmon —n. (pl. Usu. Same or -s) large expensive edible fish with orange-pink
flesh. —adj. Salmon-pink. [latin salmo]
Salmon pink adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) orange-pink colour of salmon
flesh.
Saloon n. 1 a large room or hall on a ship, in a hotel, etc. B public room for a
specified purpose (billiard-saloon). 2 (in full saloon car) (usu. Four-seater) car
with the body closed off from the luggage area. 3 us drinking-bar. 4 (in full
saloon bar) more comfortable bar in a public house. [french salon]
Salsa n. A kind of dance music of cuban origin, with jazz and rock elements.
[spanish: related to *sauce]
Salsify n. (pl. -ies) plant with long fleshy edible roots. [french from italian]
Salt —n. 1 (also common salt) sodium chloride, esp. Mined or evaporated from
sea water, and used for seasoning or preserving food. 2 chemical compound
formed from the reaction of an acid with a base. 3 piquancy; wit. 4 (in sing. Or
pl.) A substance resembling salt in taste, form, etc. (bath salts). B (esp. In pl.)
Substance used as a laxative. 5 (also old salt) experienced sailor. 6 = *salt-cellar.
—adj. Containing, tasting of, or preserved with salt. —v. 1 cure, preserve, or
season with salt or brine. 2 sprinkle (a road etc.) With salt. salt away (or down)
slang put (money etc.) By. The salt of the earth most admirable or honest person
or people (matt. 5:13). Take with a pinch (or grain) of salt regard sceptically.
Worth one’s salt efficient, capable. [old english]
Salt-cellar n. Container for salt at table. [earlier salt saler from french salier salt-
box]
Salt-pan n. Vessel, or depression near the sea, used for getting salt by
evaporation.
Salty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 tasting of or containing salt. 2 (of wit etc.) Piquant.
saltiness n.
Salute —n. 1 gesture of respect, homage, greeting etc. 2 mil. & naut. Prescribed
gesture or use of weapons or flags as a sign of respect etc. 3 ceremonial
discharge of a gun or guns. —v. (-ting) 1 a make a salute to. B (often foll. By to)
perform a salute. 2 greet. 3 commend. [latin salus -ut-health]
Salvage —n. 1 rescue of property from the sea, a fire, etc. 2 property etc. So
saved. 3 a saving and use of waste materials. B materials salvaged. —v. (-ging) 1
save from a wreck etc. 2 retrieve from a disaster etc. (salvaged her pride).
salvageable adj. [latin: related to *save1]
Salve1 —n. 1 healing ointment. 2 (often foll. By for) thing that soothes or
consoles. —v. (-ving) soothe. [old english]
Salve2 v. (-ving) save from wreck or fire etc. salvable adj. [back-formation from
*salvage]
Salver n. Tray, esp. Silver, for drinks, letters, etc. [spanish salva assaying of
food]
Salvia n. Garden plant of the sage family with red or blue flowers. [latin, =
*sage1]
Salvo n. (pl. -es or -s) 1 simultaneous discharge of guns etc. 2 round of applause.
[italian salva]
Samaritan n. 1 (in full good samaritan) charitable or helpful person (luke 10:33
etc.). 2 member of a counselling organization. [originally = inhabitant of ancient
samaria]
Samba —n. 1 ballroom dance of brazilian origin. 2 music for this. —v. (-bas, -
baed or -ba’d, -baing) dance the samba. [portuguese]
Same —adj. 1 (often prec. By the) identical; not different (on the same bus). 2
unvarying (same old story). 3 (usu. Prec. By this, these, that, those) just
mentioned (this same man later died). —pron. (prec. By the) 1 the same person
or thing. 2 law or archaic the person or thing just mentioned. —adv. (usu. Prec.
By the) similarly; in the same way (feel the same). all (or just) the same 1
nevertheless. 2 emphatically the same. At the same time 1 simultaneously. 2
notwithstanding. Be all (or just) the same to make no difference to. Same here
colloq. The same applies to me. sameness n. [old norse]
Sanatorium n. (pl. -s or -ria) 1 residential clinic, esp. For convalescents and the
chronically sick. 2 room etc. For sick people in a school etc. [latin sano heal]
Sanctify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 consecrate; treat as holy. 2 free from sin. 3 justify;
sanction. sanctification n. [latin sanctus holy]
Sanction —n. 1 approval by custom or tradition; express permission. 2
confirmation of a law etc. 3 penalty for disobeying a law or rule, or a reward for
obeying it. 4 ethics moral force encouraging obedience to any rule of conduct. 5
(esp. In pl.) (esp. Economic) action by a state against another to abide by an
international agreement etc. —v. 1 authorize or agree to (an action etc.). 2 ratify;
make (a law etc.) Binding. [latin sancio sanct-make sacred]
Sanctuary n. (pl. -ies) 1 holy place. 2 a holiest part of a temple etc. B chancel. 3
place where birds, wild animals, etc., are bred and protected. 4 place of refuge.
Sand —n. 1 fine loose grains resulting from the erosion of esp. Siliceous rocks
and forming the seashore, deserts, etc. 2 (in pl.) A grains of sand. B expanse of
sand. C sandbank. —v. Smooth with sandpaper or sand. [old english]
Sandbag —n. Bag filled with sand, used for temporary defences etc. —v. (-gg-)
defend or hit with sandbag(s).
Sandblast —v. Roughen, treat, or clean with a jet of sand driven by compressed
air or steam. —n. This jet. sandblaster n.
Sandpaper —n. Paper with an abrasive coating for smoothing or polishing. —v.
Sandpaper —n. Paper with an abrasive coating for smoothing or polishing. —v.
Rub with this.
Sandwich —n. 1 two or more slices of bread with a filling. 2 layered cake with
jam or cream. —v. 1 put (a thing, statement, etc.) Between two of another
character. 2 squeeze in between others (sat sandwiched in the middle). [from the
earl of sandwich]
Sandwich course n. Course with alternate periods of study and work experience.
Sandy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having much sand. 2 a (of hair) reddish. B sand-
coloured. sandiness n.
Sane adj. 1 of sound mind; not mad. 2 (of views etc.) Moderate, sensible. [latin
Sane adj. 1 of sound mind; not mad. 2 (of views etc.) Moderate, sensible. [latin
sanus healthy]
Sangria n. Spanish drink of red wine with lemonade, fruit, etc. [spanish, =
bleeding]
Sanitary towel n. (us sanitary napkin) absorbent pad used during menstruation.
Sanitize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make sanitary; disinfect. 2 colloq. Censor
(information etc.) To make it more acceptable.
Sanserif n. (also sans-serif) form of type without serifs. [apparently from sans
without, *serif]
Sanskrit —n. Ancient and sacred language of the hindus in india. —adj. Of or in
this language. [sanskrit, = composed]
Santa claus n. Person said to bring children presents on christmas eve. [dutch, =
st nicholas]
Sap1 —n. 1 vital juice circulating in plants. 2 vigour, vitality. 3 slang foolish
person. —v. (-pp-) 1 drain or dry (wood) of sap. 2 weaken. [old english]
person. —v. (-pp-) 1 drain or dry (wood) of sap. 2 weaken. [old english]
Sap2 —n. Tunnel or trench dug to get nearer to the enemy. —v. (-pp-) 1 dig
saps. 2 undermine. [french sappe or italian zappa spade]
Sapient adj. Literary 1 wise. 2 aping wisdom. sapience n. [latin sapio be wise]
Sapper n. 1 person who digs saps. 2 soldier of the royal engineers (esp. As the
official term for a private).
Sapphire —n. 1 transparent blue precious stone. 2 its bright blue colour. —adj.
(also sapphire blue) bright blue. [greek sappheiros lapis lazuli]
Saraband n. 1 slow stately spanish dance. 2 music for this. [spanish zarabanda]
Saracen n. Hist. Arab or muslim at the time of the crusades. [greek sarakenos]
Sardine n. (pl. Same or -s) young pilchard etc. Sold in closely packed tins. like
sardines crowded close together. [french from latin]
Sardonyx n. Onyx in which white layers alternate with yellow or orange ones.
[greek sardonux]
Sargasso n. (pl. -s or -es) (also sargassum) (pl. -gassa) seaweed with berry-like
air-vessels. [portuguese]
Sari n. (pl. -s) length of cloth draped round the body, traditionally worn by
women of the indian subcontinent. [hindi]
Sarong n. Malay and javanese garment of a long strip of cloth tucked round the
waist or under the armpits. [malay]
Sarsenet n. Soft silk material used esp. For linings. [anglo-french from sarzin
*saracen]
Sartorial adj. Of men’s clothes or tailoring. sartorially adv. [latin sartor tailor]
Sash1 n. Strip or loop of cloth etc. Worn over one shoulder or round the waist.
[arabic, = muslin]
Sass us colloq. —n. Impudence, cheek. —v. Be impudent to. [var. Of *sauce]
Sassenach n. Scot. & ir. Usu. Derog. English person. [gaelic sasunnoch]
Sassy adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Us colloq. Impudent, cheeky. [var. Of *saucy]
Sassy adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Us colloq. Impudent, cheeky. [var. Of *saucy]
Sate v. (-ting) formal gratify fully; surfeit. [probably dial. Sade satisfy]
Satellite —n. 1 celestial or artificial body orbiting the earth or another planet. 2
(in full satellite state) small country controlled by another. —attrib. Adj.
(in full satellite state) small country controlled by another. —attrib. Adj.
Transmitted by satellite (satellite television). [latin satelles -lit-attendant]
Satin —n. Silk etc. Fabric glossy on one side. —adj. Smooth as satin. satiny adj.
[arabic zaituni]
Satire n. 1 ridicule, irony, etc., used to expose folly or vice etc. 2 work using
this. satirical adj. Satirically adv. [latin satira medley]
Saturate v. (-ting) 1 fill with moisture. 2 (often foll. By with) fill to capacity. 3
cause (a substance etc.) To absorb, hold, etc. As much as possible of another
substance etc. 4 supply (a market) beyond demand. 5 (as saturated adj.) (of fat
molecules) containing the greatest number of hydrogen atoms. [latin satur full]
Saturday —n. Day of the week following friday. —adv. Colloq. 1 on saturday. 2
(saturdays) on saturdays; each saturday. [latin: related to *saturnalia]
Saturnalia n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 (usu. Saturnalia) rom. Hist. Festival of saturn in
december, the predecessor of christmas. 2 (as sing. Or pl.) Scene of wild revelry.
[latin, pl. From saturnus roman god]
Satyr n. 1 (in greek and roman mythology) woodland god with some horselike or
goatlike features. 2 lecherous man. [greek saturos]
Saucepan n. Cooking pan, usu. Round with a lid and a projecting handle, used on
a hob.
Saucer n. 1 shallow circular dish for standing a cup on. 2 thing of this shape.
saucerful n. (pl. -s). [french saussier]
Sauna n. 1 period spent in a special room heated very hot, to clean the body. 2
such a room. [finnish]
Saunter —v. Walk slowly; stroll. —n. Leisurely walk. [origin unknown]
Sauté —attrib. Adj. (esp. Of potatoes) fried quickly in a little fat. —n. Food so
cooked. —v. (sautéd or sautéed) cook in this way. [french sauter jump]
Sauternes n. Sweet white wine from sauternes in the bordeaux region of france.
[sauternes in france]
Save1 —v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. By from) rescue or keep from danger, harm, etc.
2 (often foll. By up) keep (esp. Money) for future use. 3 a (often refl.) Relieve
(another or oneself) from spending (money, time, trouble, etc.); prevent exposure
to (annoyance etc.). B obviate the need for. 4 preserve from damnation; convert.
5 a avoid losing (a game, match, etc.). B prevent (a goal etc.) From being scored.
—n. Football etc. Prevention of a goal etc. savable adj. (also saveable). [latin
salvo from salvus safe]
Save2 archaic or poet. —prep. Except; but. —conj. (often foll. By for) except;
but. [latin salvo, salva, ablative sing. Of salvus safe]
Saver n. 1 person who saves esp. Money. 2 (often in comb.) Thing that saves
(time etc.). 3 cheap (esp. Off-peak) fare.
Saving —adj. (often in comb.) Making economical use of (labour-saving). —n.
1 anything that is saved. 2 an economy (a saving in expenses). 3 (usu. In pl.)
Money saved. 4 act of preserving or rescuing. —prep. 1 except. 2 without
offence to (saving your presence).
Savior n. (brit. Saviour) 1 person who saves from danger etc. 2 (saviour) (prec.
By the, our) christ. [latin: related to *save1]
Saviour n. (us savior) 1 person who saves from danger etc. 2 (saviour) (prec. By
the, our) christ. [latin: related to *save1]
Savor (brit. Savour) —n. 1 characteristic taste, flavour, etc. 2 hint of a different
quality etc. In something. —v. 1 appreciate and enjoy (food, an experience, etc.).
2 (foll. By of) imply or suggest (a specified quality). [latin sapor]
Savory (brit. Savoury) —adj. 1 having an appetizing taste or smell. 2 (of food)
salty or piquant, not sweet. 3 pleasant; acceptable. —n. (pl. -ies) savoury dish.
savouriness n.
savouriness n.
Savour (us savor) —n. 1 characteristic taste, flavour, etc. 2 hint of a different
quality etc. In something. —v. 1 appreciate and enjoy (food, an experience, etc.).
2 (foll. By of) imply or suggest (a specified quality). [latin sapor]
Savoury (us savory) —adj. 1 having an appetizing taste or smell. 2 (of food)
salty or piquant, not sweet. 3 pleasant; acceptable. —n. (pl. -ies) savoury dish.
savouriness n.
Savvy slang —v. (-ies, -ied) know. —n. Knowingness; understanding. —adj. (-
ier, -iest) us knowing; wise. [pidgin alteration of spanish sabe usted you know]
Saw1 —n. 1 hand tool with a toothed blade used to cut esp. Wood with a to-and-
fro movement. 2 power tool with a toothed rotating disk or moving band, for
cutting. —v. (past part. Sawn or sawed) 1 cut (wood etc.) Or make (boards etc.)
With a saw. 2 use a saw. 3 a move with a sawing motion (sawing away on his
violin). B divide (the air etc.) With gesticulations. [old english]
Sawfish n. (pl. Same or -es) large marine fish with a toothed flat snout.
Sawn-off adj. (us sawed-off) (of a shotgun) with part of the barrel sawn off.
Saxe n. & adj. (in full saxe blue; as adj. Often hyphenated) light greyish-blue
colour. [french, = saxony]
Saxifrage n. Rock-plant with small white, yellow, or red flowers. [latin saxum
rock, frango break]
Saxon —n. 1 hist. A member of the germanic people that conquered parts of
england in 5th–6th c. B (usu. Old saxon) language of the saxons. 2 = anglo-
saxon. —adj. 1 hist. Of the saxons. 2 = anglo-saxon. [latin saxo -onis]
Say —v. (3rd sing. Present says; past and past part. Said) 1 (often foll. By that) a
utter (specified words); remark. B express (say what you feel). 2 (often foll. By
that) a state; promise or prophesy. B have specified wording; indicate (clock
says ten to six). 3 (in passive; usu. Foll. By to + infin.) Be asserted (is said to be
old). 4 (foll. By to + infin.) Colloq. Tell to do (he said to hurry). 5 convey
(information) (spoke, but said little). 6 offer as an argument or excuse (much to
be said in favour of it). 7 (often absol.) Give an opinion or decision as to (hard to
say). 8 take as an example or as near enough (paid, say, £20). 9 recite or repeat
(prayers, mass, tables, a lesson, etc.). 10 convey (inner meaning etc.) (what is the
poem saying?). 11 (the said) law or joc. The previously mentioned. —n. 1
opportunity to express a view (let him have his say). 2 share in a decision (had
no say in it). i’ll say colloq. Yes indeed. I say! Exclamation of surprise etc. Or
drawing attention. That is to say in other words, more explicitly. [old english]
Sc symb. Scandium.
Scab —n. 1 crust over a healing cut, sore, etc. 2 (often attrib.) Colloq. Derog.
Blackleg. 3 skin disease, esp. In animals. 4 fungous plant disease. —v. (-bb-) 1
colloq. Derog. Act as a blackleg. 2 form a scab, heal over. scabby adj. (-ier, -
iest). [old norse: cf. *shabby]
Scalar math. & physics —adj. (of a quantity) having only magnitude, not
direction. —n. Scalar quantity. [latin: related to *scale3]
Scalar math. & physics —adj. (of a quantity) having only magnitude, not
direction. —n. Scalar quantity. [latin: related to *scale3]
Scald —v. 1 burn (the skin etc.) With hot liquid or steam. 2 heat (esp. Milk) to
near boiling point. 3 (usu. Foll. By out) clean with boiling water. —n. Burn etc.
Caused by scalding. [latin excaldo from calidus hot]
Scale1 —n. 1 each of the thin horny plates protecting the skin of fish and
reptiles. 2 something resembling this. 3 white deposit formed in a kettle etc. By
hard water. 4 tartar formed on teeth. —v. (-ling) 1 remove scale(s) from. 2 form
or come off in scales. scaly adj. (-ier, -iest). [french escale]
Scale3 —n. 1 graded classification system (high on the social scale). 2 a (often
attrib.) Ratio of reduction or enlargement in a map, model, picture, etc. (on a
scale of one inch to the mile; a scale model). B relative dimensions. 3 mus. Set
of notes at fixed intervals, arranged in order of pitch. 4 a set of marks on a line
used in measuring etc. B rule determining the distances between these. C rod etc.
On which these are marked. —v. (-ling) 1 a climb (a wall, height, etc.). B climb
(the social scale, heights of ambition, etc.). 2 represent proportionally; reduce to
a common scale. in scale in proportion. Scale down (or up) make or become
smaller (or larger) in proportion. To scale uniformly in proportion. [latin scala
ladder]
Scalene adj. (esp. Of a triangle) having unequal sides. [greek skalenos unequal]
Scallion n. Esp. Us shallot; spring onion etc. [latin from ascalon in ancient
palestine]
Scallop (also scollop) —n. 1 edible mollusc with two fan-shaped ridged shells. 2
(in full scallop shell) single shell of a scallop, often used for cooking or serving
food in. 3 (in pl.) Ornamental edging of semicircular curves. —v. (-p-) ornament
with scallops. scalloping n. (in sense 3 of n.). [french *escalope]
Scalp —n. 1 skin on the head, with the hair etc. Attached. 2 hist. This cut off as a
trophy by an american indian. —v. 1 hist. Take the scalp of (an enemy). 2 us
colloq. Resell (shares etc.) At a high or quick profit. [probably scandinavian]
Scamper —v. Run and skip. —n. Act of scampering. [perhaps from *scamp]
Scan —v. (-nn-) 1 look at intently or quickly. 2 (of a verse etc.) Be metrically
correct. 3 a examine (a surface etc.) To detect radioactivity etc. B traverse (a
particular region) with a radar etc. Beam. 4 resolve (a picture) into its elements
of light and shade for esp. Television transmission. 5 analyse the metrical
structure of (verse). 6 obtain an image of (part of the body) using a scanner. —n.
1 scanning. 2 image obtained by scanning. [latin scando climb, scan]
Scanty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of small extent or amount. 2 barely sufficient. scantily
adv. Scantiness n.
Scapegoat n. Person blamed for others’ shortcomings (with ref. To lev. 16).
[obsolete scape escape]
Scar1 —n. 1 usu. Permanent mark on the skin from a wound etc. 2 emotional
damage from grief etc. 3 sign of damage. 4 mark left on a plant by the loss of a
leaf etc. —v. (-rr-) 1 (esp. As scarred adj.) Mark with a scar or scars (scarred for
life). 2 form a scar. [french eschar(r)e]
Scar2 n. (also scaur) steep craggy outcrop of a mountain or cliff. [old norse, =
reef]
Scarce —adj. 1 (usu. Predic.) (esp. Of food, money, etc.) In short supply. 2 rare.
—adv. Archaic or literary scarcely. make oneself scarce colloq. Keep out of the
way; surreptitiously disappear. [french scars latin excerpto *excerpt]
Scarcely adv. 1 hardly, only just (had scarcely arrived). 2 surely not (can
scarcely have said so). 3 esp. Iron. Not (scarcely expected to be insulted).
Scarcity n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. By of) lack or shortage, esp. Of food.
Scare —v. (-ring) 1 frighten, esp. Suddenly. 2 (as scared adj.) (usu. Foll. By of,
or to + infin.) Frightened; terrified. 3 (usu. Foll. By away, off, up, etc.) Drive
away by frightening. 4 become scared (they don’t scare easily). —n. 1 sudden
attack of fright. 2 alarm caused by rumour etc. (a measles scare). [old norse]
Scarecrow n. 1 human figure dressed in old clothes and set up in a field to scare
birds away. 2 colloq. Badly-dressed, grotesque-looking, or very thin person.
Scarf1 n. (pl. Scarves or -s) piece of material worn esp. Round the neck or over
the head, for warmth or ornament. [french escarpe]
Scarf2 —v. Join the ends of (timber etc.) By bevelling or notching them to fit
and then bolting them etc. —n. (pl. -s) joint made by scarfing. [probably french
escarf]
Scarify1 v. (-ies, -ied) 1 a make slight incisions in. B cut off skin from. 2 hurt by
severe criticism etc. 3 loosen (soil). scarification n. [greek skariphos stylus]
Scarlet —adj. Of brilliant red tinged with orange. —n. 1 scarlet colour or
pigment. 2 scarlet clothes or material (dressed in scarlet). [french escarlate]
Scarlet fever n. Infectious bacterial fever with a scarlet rash.
Scarp —n. Steep slope, esp. The inner side of a ditch in a fortification. —v.
Make perpendicular or steep. [italian scarpa]
Scat2 —n. Wordless jazz singing. —v. (-tt-) sing scat. [probably imitative]
Scatology n. Excessive interest in excrement or obscenity. scatological adj.
[greek skor skat-dung]
Scatter —v. 1 a throw about; strew. B cover by scattering. 2 a (cause to) move in
flight etc.; disperse. B disperse or cause (hopes, clouds, etc.) To disperse. 3 (as
scattered adj.) Wide apart or sporadic (scattered villages). 4 physics deflect or
diffuse (light, particles, etc.). —n. 1 act of scattering. 2 small amount scattered. 3
extent of distribution. [probably var. Of *shatter]
Scavenge v. (-ging) (usu. Foll. By for; also absol.) Search for and collect
(discarded items). [back-formation from *scavenger]
Scenario n. (pl. -s) 1 outline of the plot of a play, film, etc. 2 postulated sequence
of future events. [italian]
Scepter n. (brit. Sceptre) staff as a symbol of sovereignty. [greek skepto lean on]
Sceptre n. (us scepter) staff as a symbol of sovereignty. [greek skepto lean on]
Schedule —n. 1 a list of intended events, times, etc. B plan of work. 2 list of
rates or prices. 3 us timetable. 4 tabulated list. —v. (-ling) 1 include in a
schedule. 2 make a schedule of. 3 list (a building) for preservation. according to
(or on) schedule as planned; on time. [latin schedula slip of paper]
Scheduled flight n. (also scheduled service etc.) Regular public flight, service,
etc.
Schema n. (pl. Schemata or -s) synopsis, outline, or diagram. [greek skhema -at-
Schema n. (pl. Schemata or -s) synopsis, outline, or diagram. [greek skhema -at-
form, figure]
Scherzo n. (pl. -s) mus. Vigorous, often playful, piece, esp. As part of a larger
work. [italian, = jest]
Schism n. Division of a group (esp. Religious) into sects etc., usu. Over doctrine.
schismatic adj. & n. [greek skhizo to split]
Schizophrenia n. Mental disease marked by a breakdown in the relation between
thoughts, feelings, and actions, and often with delusions and retreat from social
life. schizophrenic adj. & n. [greek skhizo split, phren mind]
School2 n. (often foll. By of) shoal of fish, whales, etc. [low german or dutch]
Sciatic adj. 1 of the hip. 2 of the sciatic nerve. 3 suffering from or liable to
sciatica. [greek iskhion hip]
sciatica. [greek iskhion hip]
Science fiction n. Fiction with a scientific theme, esp. Concerned with the future,
space, other worlds, etc.
Scion n. 1 shoot of a plant etc., esp. One cut for grafting or planting. 2
descendant; younger member of (esp. A noble) family. [french]
Scissors n.pl. (also pair of scissors sing.) Hand-held cutting instrument with two
pivoted blades opening and closing. [latin caedo cut: related to *chisel]
Scoff1 —v. (usu. Foll. By at) speak scornfully; mock. —n. Mocking words;
taunt. [perhaps from scandinavian]
Scoff2 colloq. —v. Eat greedily. —n. Food; a meal. [afrikaans schoff from
dutch]
Scold —v. 1 rebuke (esp. A child). 2 find fault noisily. —n. Archaic nagging
woman. scolding n. [probably old norse]
Scone n. Small cake of flour, fat, and milk, baked quickly. [origin uncertain]
Scoop —n. 1 spoon-shaped object, esp.: a a short-handled deep shovel for loose
materials. B a large long-handled ladle for liquids. C the excavating part of a
digging-machine etc. D an instrument for serving ice-cream etc. 2 quantity taken
up by a scoop. 3 scooping movement. 4 exclusive news item. 5 large profit made
quickly. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By out) hollow out (as if) with a scoop. 2 (usu. Foll.
By up) lift (as if) with a scoop. 3 forestall (a rival newspaper etc.) With a scoop.
4 secure (a large profit etc.), esp. Suddenly. [low german or dutch]
Scooter n. 1 child’s toy with a footboard on two wheels and a long steering-
handle. 2 (in full motor scooter) low-powered motor cycle with a shieldlike
protective front.
protective front.
Scorbutic adj. Of, like, or affected with scurvy. [latin scorbutus scurvy]
Scorch —v. 1 burn or discolour the surface of with dry heat. 2 become so
discoloured etc. 3 (as scorching adj.) Colloq. A (of the weather) very hot. B (of
criticism etc.) Stringent; harsh. —n. Mark made by scorching. [origin unknown]
Score —n. 1 a number of points, goals, runs, etc., made by a player or side in
some games. B respective numbers of points etc. At the end of a game (score
was five–nil). C act of gaining esp. A goal. 2 (pl. Same or -s) twenty or a set of
twenty. 3 (in pl.) A great many (scores of people). 4 reason or motive (rejected
on that score). 5 mus. A copy of a composition showing all the vocal and
instrumental parts arranged one below the other. B music for a film or play, esp.
For a musical. 6 notch, line, etc. Cut or scratched into a surface. 7 record of
money owing. —v. (-ring) 1 a win or gain (a goal, points, success, etc.). B count
for (points in a game etc.) (a boundary scores six). 2 a make a score in a game
(failed to score). B keep score in a game. 3 mark with notches etc. 4 have an
advantage (that is where he scores). 5 mus. (often foll. By for) orchestrate or
arrange (a piece of music). 6 slang a obtain drugs illegally. B make a sexual
conquest. keep score (or the score) register scores as they are made. Know the
score colloq. Be aware of the essential facts. On that score so far as that is
concerned. Score off (or score points off) colloq. Humiliate, esp. Verbally. Score
out delete. scorer n. [old norse: related to *shear]
Score-book n. (also score-card or -sheet) printed book etc. For entering esp.
Cricket scores in.
Scorpio n. (pl. -s) 1 constellation and eighth sign of the zodiac (the scorpion). 2
person born when the sun is in this sign. [greek skorpios scorpion]
Scorpion n. 1 arachnid with pincers and a jointed stinging tail. 2 (the scorpion)
zodiacal sign or constellation scorpio.
Scotch —adj. Var. Of *scottish or scots. —n. 1 var. Of scottish or scots. 2 scotch
whisky. [from scottish]
Scotch v. 1 put an end to; frustrate. 2 archaic wound without killing. [origin
unknown]
Scotch terrier n. (also scottish terrier) small rough-haired terrier.
Scots (also scotch) esp. Scot. —adj. 1 = *scottish adj. 2 in the dialect, accent,
etc., of (esp. Lowlands) scotland. —n. 1 = scottish n. 2 form of english spoken in
(esp. Lowlands) scotland. [var. Of scottish]
Scottish (also scotch) —adj. Of scotland or its inhabitants. —n. (prec. By the;
treated as pl.) People of scotland.
Scour1 —v. 1 a cleanse by rubbing. B (usu. Foll. By away, off, etc.) Clear (rust,
stains, etc.) By rubbing etc. 2 clear out (a pipe, channel, etc.) By flushing
through. —n. Scouring or being scoured. scourer n. [french escurer]
Scour2 v. Search thoroughly, esp. By scanning (scoured the streets for him;
scoured the newspaper). [origin unknown]
Scourge —n. 1 person or thing seen as causing suffering. 2 whip. —v. (-ging) 1
whip. 2 punish, oppress. [latin corrigia whip]
Scout —n. 1 soldier etc. Sent ahead to get esp. Military intelligence. 2 search for
this. 3 = *talent-scout. 4 (also scout) member of the scout association, an (orig.
Boys’) association intended to develop character. 5 domestic worker at an oxford
college. —v. 1 (often foll. By for) go about searching for information etc. 2 (foll.
By about, around) make a search. 3 (often foll. By out) colloq. Explore to get
information about (territory etc.). scouting n. [french escoute(r) from latin
ausculto listen]
Scrabble —v. (-ling) scratch or grope about, esp. In search of something. —n. 1
act of scrabbling. 2 (scrabble) propr. Game in which players build up words
from letter-blocks on a board. [dutch]
Scrag —n. 1 (also scrag-end) inferior end of a neck of mutton. 2 skinny person
or animal. —v. (-gg-) slang 1 strangle, hang. 2 handle roughly, beat up. [origin
uncertain]
Scramble —v. (-ling) 1 clamber, crawl, climb, etc., esp. Hurriedly or anxiously.
2 (foll. By for, at) struggle with competitors (for a thing or share). 3 mix together
indiscriminately. 4 cook (eggs) by stirring them in a pan over heat. 5 change the
speech frequency of (a broadcast transmission or telephone conversation) so as
to make it unintelligible without a decoding device. 6 (of fighter aircraft or
pilots) take off quickly in an emergency or for action. —n. 1 act of scrambling. 2
difficult climb or walk. 3 (foll. By for) eager struggle or competition. 4 motor-
difficult climb or walk. 3 (foll. By for) eager struggle or competition. 4 motor-
cycle race over rough ground. 5 emergency take-off by fighter aircraft.
[imitative]
Scrap2 colloq. —n. Fight or rough quarrel. —v. (-pp-) have a scrap. [perhaps
from *scrape]
Scrape —v. (-ping) 1 a move a hard or sharp edge across (a surface), esp. To
make smooth. B apply (a hard or sharp edge) in this way. 2 (foll. By away, off,
etc.) Remove by scraping. 3 a rub (a surface) harshly against another. B scratch
or damage by scraping. 4 make (a hollow) by scraping. 5 a draw or move with a
scraping sound. B make such a sound. C produce such a sound from. 6 (often
foll. By along, by, through, etc.) Move almost touching surrounding obstacles
etc. (scraped through the gap). 7 narrowly achieve (a living, an examination
pass, etc.). 8 (often foll. By by, through) a barely manage. B pass an examination
etc. With difficulty. 9 (foll. By together, up) bring, provide, or amass with
difficulty. 10 be economical. 11 draw back a foot in making a clumsy bow. 12
(foll. By back) draw (the hair) tightly back. —n. 1 act or sound of scraping. 2
scraped place; graze.
Scratch —v. 1 score, mark, or wound superficially, esp. With a sharp object. 2
(also absol.) Scrape, esp. With the nails to relieve itching. 3 make or form by
scratching. 4 (foll. By together, up, etc.) = *scrape 9. 5 (foll. By out, off,
through) strike (out) (writing etc.). 6 (also absol.) Withdraw (a competitor,
oneself, etc.) From a race or competition. 7 (often foll. By about, around, etc.) A
scratch the ground etc. In search. B search haphazardly (scratching about for
evidence). —n. 1 mark or wound made by scratching. 2 sound of scratching. 3
spell of scratching oneself. 4 colloq. Superficial wound. 5 line from which
competitors in a race (esp. Those not receiving a handicap) start. —attrib.adj. 1
collected by chance. 2 collected or made from whatever is available;
heterogeneous. 3 with no handicap given (scratch race). from scratch 1 from the
beginning. 2 without help. Scratch one’s head be perplexed. Scratch the surface
deal with a matter only superficially. Up to scratch up to the required standard.
[origin uncertain]
Scrawl —v. 1 write or make (marks) in a hurried untidy way. 2 (foll. By out)
cross out by scrawling over. —n. 1 hurried untidy manner of writing. 2 example
of this. scrawly adj. [origin uncertain]
Scream —n. 1 loud high-pitched cry of fear, pain, etc. 2 similar sound or cry. 3
colloq. Hilarious occurrence or person. —v. 1 emit a scream. 2 speak or sing
(words etc.) In a screaming tone. 3 make or move with a screaming sound. 4
laugh uncontrollably. 5 be blatantly obvious. [old english]
Scree n. (in sing. Or pl.) 1 small loose stones. 2 mountain slope covered with
these. [old norse, = landslip]
Screech —n. Harsh piercing scream. —v. Utter with or make a screech. screechy
adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english (imitative)]
Screed n. 1 long usu. Tiresome piece of writing or speech. 2 layer of cement etc.
Applied to level a surface. [probably from *shred]
Screen printing n. Printing process with ink forced through a prepared sheet of
fine material.
Screw —n. 1 thin cylinder or cone with a spiral ridge or thread running round
the outside (male screw) or the inside (female screw). 2 (in full wood-screw)
metal male screw with a slotted head and a sharp point. 3 (in full screw-bolt)
blunt metal male screw on which a nut is threaded to bolt things together. 4
straight screw used to exert pressure. 5 (in sing. Or pl.) Instrument of torture
acting in this way. 6 (in full screw-propeller) propeller with twisted blades acting
like a screw on the water or air. 7 one turn of a screw. 8 (foll. By of) small
twisted-up paper (of tobacco etc.). 9 (in billiards etc.) An oblique curling motion
of the ball. 10 slang prison warder. 11 coarse slang a act of sexual intercourse. B
partner in this. —v. 1 fasten or tighten with a screw or screws. 2 turn (a screw). 3
twist or turn round like a screw. 4 (of a ball etc.) Swerve. 5 (foll. By out of)
extort (consent, money, etc.) From. 6 (also absol.) Coarse slang have sexual
intercourse with. 7 swindle. have a screw loose colloq. Be slightly crazy. Put the
screws on colloq. Pressurize, intimidate. Screw up 1 contract or contort (one’s
screws on colloq. Pressurize, intimidate. Screw up 1 contract or contort (one’s
face etc.). 2 contract and crush (a piece of paper etc.) Into a tight mass. 3
summon up (one’s courage etc.). 4 slang a bungle. B spoil (an event,
opportunity, etc.). C upset, disturb mentally. [french escroue]
Screwdriver n. Tool with a tip that fits into the head of a screw to turn it.
Scrimmage —n. Tussle; brawl. —v. (-ging) engage in this. [from *skirmish]
Scriptwriter n. Person who writes scripts for films, tv, etc. scriptwriting n.
Scroll —n. 1 roll of parchment or paper, esp. Written on. 2 book in the ancient
roll form. 3 ornamental design imitating a roll of parchment. —v. (often foll. By
down, up) move (a display on a vdu screen) to view earlier or later material.
down, up) move (a display on a vdu screen) to view earlier or later material.
[originally (sc)rowle *roll]
Scrotum n. (pl. Scrota or -s) pouch of skin containing the testicles. scrotal adj.
[latin]
Scrub1 —v. (-bb-) 1 clean by rubbing, esp. With a hard brush and water. 2 (often
foll. By up) (of a surgeon etc.) Clean and disinfect the hands and arms before
operating. 3 colloq. Scrap or cancel. 4 use water to remove impurities from
(gases etc.). —n. Scrubbing or being scrubbed. [low german or dutch]
Scruff1 n. Back of the neck (esp. Scruff of the neck). [perhaps from old norse
skoft hair]
Scruffy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Shabby, slovenly, untidy. scruffily adv.
Scruffiness n. [scruff = *scurf]
Scrunch —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By up) crumple. 2 crunch. —n. Crunching sound.
[var. Of *crunch]
Scruple —n. 1 (often in pl.) Moral concern. 2 doubt caused by this. —v. (-ling)
Scruple —n. 1 (often in pl.) Moral concern. 2 doubt caused by this. —v. (-ling)
(foll. By to + infin.; usu. With neg.) Hesitate because of scruples. [latin]
Scud —v. (-dd-) 1 move straight and fast; skim along (scudding clouds). 2 naut.
Run before the wind. —n. 1 spell of scudding. 2 scudding motion. 3 vapoury
driving clouds or shower. [perhaps an alteration of *scut]
Scuff —v. 1 graze or brush against. 2 mark or wear out (shoes) in this way. 3
shuffle or drag the feet. —n. Mark of scuffing. [imitative]
shuffle or drag the feet. —n. Mark of scuffing. [imitative]
Scuffle —n. Confused struggle or fight at close quarters. —v. (-ling) engage in a
scuffle. [probably scandinavian: related to *shove]
Scull —n. 1 either of a pair of small oars. 2 oar over the stern of a boat to propel
it, usu. By a twisting motion. 3 (in pl.) Sculling race. —v. (often absol.) Propel
(a boat) with sculls. [origin unknown]
Scullery n. (pl. -ies) back kitchen; room for washing dishes etc. [anglo-french
squillerie]
Scullion n. Archaic 1 cook’s boy. 2 person who washes dishes etc. [origin
unknown]
Scum —n. 1 layer of dirt, froth, etc. At the top of liquid. 2 derog. Worst part,
person, or group (scum of the earth). —v. (-mm-) 1 remove scum from. 2 form a
scum (on). scummy adj. (-ier, -iest). [low german or dutch]
Scupper1 n. Hole in a ship’s side to drain water from the deck. [french escopir to
spit]
Scupper2 v. Slang 1 sink (a ship or its crew). 2 defeat or ruin (a plan etc.). 3 kill.
[origin unknown]
Scurry —v. (-ies, -ied) run or move hurriedly, esp. With short quick steps;
scamper. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 act or sound of scurrying. 2 flurry of rain or snow.
[abbreviation of hurry-scurry reduplication of *hurry]
Scuttle2 —v. (-ling) scurry; flee from danger etc. —n. Hurried gait; precipitate
flight. [perhaps related to dial. Scuddle frequentative of *scud]
Scuttle3 —n. Hole with a lid in a ship’s deck or side. —v. Let water into (a ship)
to sink it. [spanish escotilla hatchway]
Scylla and charybdis n.pl. Two dangers or extremes such that one can be
avoided only by approaching the other. [names of a monster and a whirlpool in
greek mythology]
Scythe —n. Mowing and reaping implement with a long handle and curved
blade swung over the ground. —v. (-thing) cut with a scythe. [old english]
Se symb. Selenium.
Sea n. 1 expanse of salt water that covers most of the earth’s surface. 2 any part
of this. 3 named tract of this partly or wholly enclosed by land (north sea). 4
large inland lake (sea of galilee). 5 waves of the sea; their motion or state
(choppy sea). 6 (foll. By of) vast quantity or expanse. 7 (attrib.) Living or used
in, on, or near the sea (often prefixed to the name of a marine animal, plant, etc.,
having a superficial resemblance to what it is named after) (sea lettuce). at sea 1
in a ship on the sea. 2 perplexed, confused. By sea in a ship or ships. Go to sea
become a sailor. On the sea 1 = at sea 1. 2 on the coast. [old english]
Sea anemone n. Marine animal with tube-shaped body and petal-like tentacles.
Seagull n. = *gull1.
Sea horse n. 1 small upright fish with a head like a horse’s. 2 mythical creature
with a horse’s head and fish’s tail.
Seal1 —n. 1 piece of stamped wax, lead, paper, etc., attached to a document or
to a receptacle, envelope, etc., to guarantee authenticity or security. 2 engraved
piece of metal etc. For stamping a design on a seal. 3 substance or device used to
close a gap etc. 4 anything regarded as a confirmation or guarantee (seal of
approval). 5 decorative adhesive stamp. —v. 1 close securely or hermetically. 2
stamp, fasten, or fix with a seal. 3 certify as correct with a seal or stamp. 4 (often
foll. By up) confine securely. 5 settle or decide (their fate is sealed). 6 (foll. By
off) prevent entry to or exit from (an area). set one’s seal to (or on) authorize or
confirm. [latin sigillum]
Seal2 —n. Fish-eating amphibious marine mammal with flippers. —v. Hunt for
seals. [old english]
Sea legs n.pl. Ability to keep one’s balance and avoid seasickness at sea.
Sea level n. Mean level of the sea’s surface, used in reckoning the height of hills
etc. And as a barometric standard.
Sealskin n. 1 skin or prepared fur of a seal. 2 (often attrib.) Garment made from
this.
Seals of office n.pl. Seals held, esp. By the lord chancellor or a secretary of state.
Seam —n. 1 line where two edges join, esp. Of cloth or boards. 2 fissure
between parallel edges. 3 wrinkle. 4 stratum of coal etc. —v. 1 join with a seam.
2 (esp. As seamed adj.) Mark or score with a seam. seamless adj. [old english]
Seaman n. 1 person whose work is at sea. 2 sailor, esp. One below the rank of
officer.
Seam bowler n. Cricket bowler who makes the ball deviate by bouncing it off its
seam.
Sea mile n. Unit varying between approx. 2,014 yards (1,842 metres) and 2,035
yards (1,861 metres).
Seamstress n. (also sempstress) woman who sews, esp. For a living. [old english:
related to *seam]
related to *seam]
Seamy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 disreputable or sordid (esp. The seamy side). 2 marked
with or showing seams. seaminess n.
Seance n. Meeting at which a spiritualist attempts to make contact with the dead.
[french]
Sear v. 1 scorch, cauterize. 2 cause anguish to. 3 brown (meat) quickly at a high
temperature to retain its juices in cooking. [old english]
Season —n. 1 each of the climatic divisions of the year (spring, summer,
autumn, winter). 2 proper or suitable time. 3 time when something is plentiful,
active, etc. 4 (usu. Prec. By the) = *high season. 5 time of year for an activity or
for social life generally (football season; london in the season). 6 indefinite
period. 7 colloq. = *season ticket. —v. 1 flavour (food) with salt, herbs, etc. 2
enhance with wit etc. 3 moderate. 4 (esp. As seasoned adj.) Make or become
suitable by exposure to the weather or experience (seasoned wood; seasoned
campaigner). in season 1 (of food) plentiful and good. 2 (of an animal) on heat.
[latin satio sowing]
Seasonal adj. Of, depending on, or varying with the season. seasonally adv.
Season ticket n. Ticket entitling the holder to unlimited travel, access, etc., in a
given period.
Seat —n. 1 thing made or used for sitting on. 2 a buttocks. B part of a garment
covering them. 3 part of a chair etc. On which the buttocks rest. 4 place for one
person in a theatre etc. 5 position as an mp, committee member, etc., or the right
to occupy it. 6 supporting or guiding part of a machine. 7 location (seat of
learning). 8 country mansion. 9 manner of sitting on a horse etc. —v. 1 cause to
sit. 2 provide sitting accommodation for (bus seats 50). 3 (as seated adj.) Sitting.
4 put or fit in position. be seated sit down. By the seat of one’s pants colloq. By
instinct rather than knowledge. Take a seat sit down. [old norse: related to *sit]
Seaward —adv. (also seawards) towards the sea. —adj. Going or facing towards
the sea.
Sebaceous adj. Fatty; secreting oily matter. [latin sebum tallow]
Secant n. Math. 1 ratio of the hypotenuse to the shorter side adjacent to an acute
angle (in a right-angled triangle). 2 line cutting a curve at one or more points.
[french]
Seclude v. (-ding) (also refl.) 1 keep (a person or place) apart from others. 2
(esp. As secluded adj.) Screen from view. [latin secludo -clus-]
Second1 —adj. 1 next after first. 2 additional (ate a second cake). 3 subordinate;
inferior. 4 mus. Performing a lower or subordinate part (second violins). 5 such
as to be comparable to (a second callas). —n. 1 runner-up. 2 person or thing
besides the first or previously mentioned one. 3 second gear. 4 (in pl.) Inferior
goods. 5 (in pl.) Colloq. Second helping or course. 6 assistant to a duellist,
boxer, etc. —v. 1 support; back up. 2 formally support (a nomination, resolution,
or its proposer). at second hand indirectly. seconder n. (esp. In sense 2 of v.).
[latin secundus from sequor follow]
Secondary —adj. 1 coming after or next below what is primary. 2 derived from
or supplementing what is primary. 3 (of education, a school, etc.) Following
primary, esp. From the age of 11. —n. (pl. -ies) secondary thing. secondarily
adv. [latin: related to *second1]
Second-degree adj. Denoting burns that cause blistering but not permanent scars.
Second fiddle see *fiddle.
Second-hand —adj. 1 a having had a previous owner; not new. B (attrib.) (of a
shop etc.) Where such goods can be bought. 2 (of information etc.) Indirect, not
from one’s own observation etc. —adv. 1 on a second-hand basis. 2 indirectly.
Second string n. Alternative course of action etc.
Secrete v. (-ting) 1 (of a cell, organ, etc.) Produce and discharge (a substance). 2
conceal. secretory adj. [from *secret]
Secret society n. Society whose members are sworn to secrecy about it.
Section —n. 1 each of the parts of a thing or out of which a thing can be fitted
together. 2 part cut off. 3 subdivision. 4 us a area of land. B district of a town. 5
act of cutting or separating surgically. 6 a cutting of a solid by a plane. B
resulting figure or area. —v. 1 arrange in or divide into sections. 2 compulsorily
commit to a psychiatric hospital. [latin seco sect-cut]
Secular adj. 1 not concerned with religion; not sacred; worldly (secular
education; secular music). 2 (of clerics) not monastic. secularism n. Secularize v.
(also -ise) (-zing or -sing). Secularization n. [latin saeculum an age]
Sedan n. 1 (in full sedan chair) hist. Enclosed chair for one, carried on poles by
two men. 2 us enclosed car with four or more seats. [origin uncertain]
Sedate —adj. Tranquil and dignified; serious. —v. (-ting) put under sedation.
sedately adv. Sedateness n. [latin sedo settle, calm]
Sedentary adj. 1 sitting. 2 (of work etc.) Done while sitting. 3 (of a person)
disinclined to exercise. [latin sedeo sit]
Sedge n. Waterside or marsh plant resembling coarse grass. sedgy adj. [old
english]
english]
Sedum n. Fleshy-leaved plant with yellow, pink, or white flowers, e.g. The
stonecrop. [latin, = houseleek]
See1 v. (past saw; past part. Seen) 1 perceive with the eyes. 2 have or use this
power. 3 discern mentally; understand. 4 watch (a film, game, etc.). 5 ascertain,
learn (will see if he’s here). 6 imagine, foresee (see trouble ahead). 7 look at for
information (see page 15). 8 meet and recognize (i saw your mother in town). 9 a
meet socially or on business; visit or be visited by (is too ill to see anyone; must
see a doctor). B meet regularly as a boyfriend or girlfriend. 10 reflect, wait for
clarification (we shall have to see). 11 experience (i never thought to see it). 12
find attractive (can’t think what she sees in him). 13 escort, conduct (saw them
home). 14 witness (an event etc.) (see the new year in). 15 ensure (see that it is
done). 16 a (in poker etc.) Equal (a bet). B equal the bet of (a player). see about 1
attend to. 2 consider. See the back of colloq. Be rid of. See fit see *fit1. See the
light 1 realize one’s mistakes etc. 2 undergo religious conversion. See off 1 be
present at the departure of (a person). 2 colloq. Ward off, get the better of. See
out 1 accompany out of a building etc. 2 finish (a project etc.) Completely. 3
survive (a period etc.). See over inspect; tour. See red colloq. Become enraged.
See stars colloq. See lights as a result of a blow on the head. See things colloq.
Have hallucinations. See through detect the truth or true nature of. See a person
through support a person during a difficult time. See a thing through finish it
completely. See to it (foll. By that) ensure. [old english]
Seed —n. 1 a part of a plant capable of developing into another such plant. B
seeds collectively, esp. For sowing. 2 semen. 3 prime cause, beginning. 4
offspring, descendants. 5 (in tennis etc.) Seeded player. —v. 1 a place seeds in.
B sprinkle (as) with seed. 2 sow seeds. 3 produce or drop seed. 4 remove seeds
from (fruit etc.). 5 place a crystal etc. In (a cloud) to produce rain. 6 sport a so
position (a strong competitor in a knockout competition) that he or she will not
meet other strong competitors in early rounds. B arrange (the order of play) in
this way. go (or run) to seed 1 cease flowering as seed develops. 2 become
degenerate, unkempt, etc. seedless adj. [old english]
Seedling n. Young plant raised from seed rather than from a cutting etc.
Seedy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 shabby, unkempt. 2 colloq. Unwell. 3 full of or going to
seed. seediness n.
Seeing conj. (usu. Foll. By that) considering that, inasmuch as, because.
Seek v. (past and past part. Sought) 1 (often foll. By for, after) search or inquire.
2 a try or want to find or get or reach (sought my hand). B request (sought help).
3 endeavour (seek to please). seek out 1 search for and find. 2 single out as a
friend etc. seeker n. [old english]
Seem v. (often foll. By to + infin.) Appear or feel (seems ridiculous). i etc. Can’t
seem to i etc. Appear unable to (can’t seem to manage it). It seems (or would
seem) (often foll. By that) it appears to be the case. [old norse]
Seeming adj. Apparent but perhaps doubtful (his seeming interest). seemingly
adv.
Seemly adj. (-ier, -iest) in good taste; decorous. seemliness n. [old norse: related
to *seem]
See-saw —n. 1 a long plank balanced on a central support, for children to sit on
at each end and move up and down alternately. B this game. 2 up-and-down or
to-and-fro motion. 3 close contest with alternating advantage. —v. 1 play on a
see-saw. 2 move up and down. 3 vacillate in policy, emotion, etc. —adj. & adv.
With up-and-down or backward-and-forward motion. [reduplication of *saw1]
Seethe v. (-thing) 1 boil, bubble over. 2 be very angry, resentful, etc. [old
english]
Segment —n. 1 each part into which a thing is or can be divided. 2 part of a
circle or sphere etc. Cut off by an intersecting line or plane. —v. Usu. Divide
into segments. segmental adj. Segmentation n. [latin seco cut]
Segregate v. (-ting) 1 put apart; isolate. 2 separate (esp. An ethnic group) from
the rest of the community. [latin grex greg-flock]
Seigneur n. Feudal lord. seigneurial adj. [french from latin senior *senior]
Seine —n. Fishing-net with floats at the top and weights at the bottom edge. —v.
(-ning) fish or catch with a seine. [old english segne]
Seize v. (-zing) 1 (often foll. By on, upon) take hold of forcibly or suddenly. 2
take possession of forcibly or by legal power. 3 affect suddenly (panic seized
us). 4 (often foll. By on, upon) take advantage of (an opportunity etc.). 5 (often
foll. By on, upon) comprehend quickly or clearly. 6 (also seise) (usu. Foll. By
of) law put in possession of. seized (or seised) of 1 possessing legally. 2 aware
or informed of. Seize up 1 (of a mechanism) become jammed. 2 (of part of the
body etc.) Become stiff. [french saisir]
Select —v. Choose, esp. With care. —adj. 1 chosen for excellence or suitability.
2 (of a society etc.) Exclusive. [latin seligo -lect-]
Self n. (pl. Selves) 1 individuality, personality, or essence (showed his true self;
is her old self again). 2 object of introspection or reflexive action. 3 a one’s own
interests or pleasure. B concentration on these. 4 commerce or colloq. Myself,
yourself, etc. (cheque drawn to self). [old english]
Self-addressed adj. (of an envelope) bearing one’s own address for a reply.
Self-adhesive adj. (of an envelope, label, etc.) Adhesive, esp. Without wetting.
Selfconscious adj. Nervous, shy, or embarrassed. selfconsciously adv.
Selfconsciousness n.
Self-consistent adj. (of parts of the same whole etc.) Consistent; not conflicting.
self-consistency n.
Self-employed adj. Working as a freelance or for one’s own business etc. self-
employment n.
Self-evident adj. Obvious; without the need of proof or further explanation. self-
evidence n. Self-evidently adv.
Self-financing adj. (of an institution or undertaking) that pays for itself without
subsidy.
Self-fulfilling adj. (of a prophecy etc.) Bound to come true as a result of its being
made.
Self-help n. (often attrib.) Use of one’s own abilities, resources, etc. To solve
one’s problems etc. (formed a self-help group).
Self-indulgent adj. 1 indulging in one’s own pleasure, feelings, etc. 2 (of a work
of art etc.) Lacking economy and control. self-indulgence n.
Selfish adj. Concerned chiefly with one’s own interests or pleasure; actuated by
or appealing to self-interest. selfishly adv. Selfishness n.
Self-pity n. Feeling sorry for oneself. self-pitying adj.
Self-propelled adj. (of a vehicle etc.) Propelled by its own power. self-propelling
adj.
Self-regulating adj. Regulating oneself or itself without intervention. self-
regulation n. Self-regulatory adj.
Self-restraint n. Self-control.
Self-rule n. Self-government.
Self-sealing adj. 1 (of a tyre etc.) Automatically able to seal small punctures. 2
Self-sealing adj. 1 (of a tyre etc.) Automatically able to seal small punctures. 2
(of an envelope) self-adhesive.
Self-service —adj. (often attrib.) (of a shop, restaurant, etc.) With customers
serving themselves and paying at a checkout etc. —n. Colloq. Self-service
restaurant etc.
Self-worth n. = *self-esteem.
Sell —v. (past and past part. Sold) 1 exchange or be exchanged for money (these
sell well). 2 stock for sale (do you sell eggs?). 3 (foll. By at, for) have a specified
price (sells at £5). 4 (also refl.) Betray or prostitute for money etc. 5 (also refl.)
Advertise or publicize (a product, oneself, etc.). 6 cause to be sold (name alone
will sell it). 7 colloq. Make (a person) enthusiastic about (an idea etc.). —n.
Colloq. 1 manner of selling (soft sell). 2 deception; disappointment. sell down
the river see *river. Sell off sell at reduced prices. Sell out 1 (also absol.) Sell
(all one’s stock, shares, etc.). 2 betray; be treacherous or disloyal. Sell short
disparage, underestimate. Sell up sell one’s business, house, etc. [old english]
Sellotape —n. Propr. Adhesive usu. Transparent tape. —v. (sellotape) (-ping) fix
with sellotape. [from *cellulose]
Sell-out n. 1 commercial success, esp. The selling of all tickets for a show. 2
betrayal.
betrayal.
Selvage n. (also selvedge) fabric edging woven to prevent cloth from fraying.
[from self, edge]
Semaphore —n. 1 system of signalling with the arms or two flags. 2 railway
signalling apparatus consisting of a post with a movable arm or arms etc. —v. (-
ring) signal or send by semaphore. [greek sema sign, phero bear]
Semi-detached —adj. (of a house) joined to one other on one side only. —n.
Such a house.
Semiotics n. The study of signs and symbols and their use, esp. In language.
semiotic adj. [greek semeiotikos of signs]
Semi-skimmed adj. (of milk) from which some of the cream has been skimmed.
Semite n. Member of the peoples said to be descended from shem (gen. 10),
including esp. The jews and arabs. [greek sem shem]
Semitic adj. 1 of the semites, esp. The jews. 2 of languages of the family
including hebrew and arabic.
Semolina n. 1 hard grains left after the milling of flour, used in milk puddings
etc. 2 pudding of this. [italian semolino]
Senate n. 1 legislative body, esp. The upper and smaller assembly in the us,
france, etc. 2 governing body of a university or (us) a college. 3 ancient roman
state council. [latin senatus from senex old man]
Senile adj. 1 of old age. 2 mentally or physically infirm because of old age.
senility n. [latin: related to *senescent]
Senile dementia n. Illness of old people with loss of memory and control of
bodily functions etc.
Senior school n. School for children esp. Over the age of 11.
Usage sensual is sometimes confused with sensuous, which does not have the
sexual overtones of sensual.
Sentiment n. 1 mental feeling. 2 (often in pl.) What one feels, opinion. 3 opinion
or feeling, as distinct from its expression (the sentiment is good). 4 emotional or
irrational view. 5 such views collectively, esp. As an influence. 6 tendency to be
swayed by feeling. 7 a mawkish or exaggerated emotion. B display of this.
Sentry n. (pl. -ies) soldier etc. Stationed to keep guard. [perhaps from obsolete
centrinel, var. Of *sentinel]
Sepoy n. Hist. Native indian soldier under european, esp. British, discipline.
[persian sipahi soldier]
September n. Ninth month of the year. [latin septem seven, originally the 7th
month of the roman year]
Septennial adj. 1 lasting for seven years. 2 recurring every seven years.
Septic tank n. Tank in which sewage is disintegrated through bacterial activity.
Septuagint n. Greek version of the old testament including the apocrypha. [latin
septuaginta seventy]
Septum n. (pl. Septa) partition such as that between the nostrils or the chambers
of a poppy-fruit or of a shell. [latin s(a)eptum from saepio enclose]
Septuple —adj. 1 sevenfold, having seven parts. 2 being seven times as many or
as much. —n. Sevenfold number or amount. [latin septem seven]
Sepulcher (brit. Sepulchre) —n. Tomb, esp. Cut in rock or built of stone or
brick. —v. (-ring) 1 place in a sepulchre. 2 serve as a sepulchre for. [latin sepelio
bury]
Sepulchre (us sepulcher) —n. Tomb, esp. Cut in rock or built of stone or brick.
—v. (-ring) 1 place in a sepulchre. 2 serve as a sepulchre for. [latin sepelio bury]
Sepulture n. Burying, interment. [latin: related to *sepulchre]
Sequel n. 1 what follows (esp. As a result). 2 novel, film, etc., that continues the
story of an earlier one. [latin sequor follow]
Seraglio n. (pl. -s) 1 harem. 2 hist. Turkish palace. [italian serraglio from turkish]
Seraph n. (pl. -im or -s) angelic being of the highest order of the celestial
hierarchy. seraphic adj. [hebrew]
Serene adj. (-ner, -nest) 1 clear and calm. 2 tranquil, unperturbed. serenely adv.
Sereneness n. Serenity n. [latin]
Serf n. 1 hist. Labourer who was not allowed to leave the land on which he
worked. 2 oppressed person, drudge. serfdom n. [latin servus slave]
Serial —n. (also attrib.) Story etc. Published, broadcast, or shown in instalments.
—adj. 1 of, in, or forming a series. 2 mus. Using transformations of a fixed
series of notes (see series 4). serially adv. [from series]
Serpent n. 1 snake, esp. Large. 2 sly or treacherous person. [latin serpo creep]
Serried adj. (of ranks of soldiers etc.) Close together. [french serrer to close]
Serum n. (pl. Sera or -s) 1 liquid that separates from a clot when blood
coagulates, esp. Used for inoculation. 2 watery fluid in animal bodies. [latin, =
whey]
Servery n. (pl. -ies) room or counter from which meals etc. Are served.
Service —n. 1 work, or the doing of work, for another or for a community etc.
(often in pl.: the services of a lawyer). 2 work done by a machine etc. (has given
good service). 3 assistance or benefit given. 4 provision or supplying of a public
need, e.g. Transport, or (often in pl.) Of water, gas, electricity, etc. 5
employment as a servant. 6 state or period of employment (resigned after 15
years’ service). 7 public or crown department or organization (civil service). 8
(in pl.) The armed forces.
Serviceable adj. 1 useful or usable; able to render service. 2 durable but plain.
serviceability n.
Service area n. Area beside a major road providing petrol, refreshments, toilet
facilities, etc.
Service flat n. Flat in which domestic service and sometimes meals are provided
for an extra fee.
Service road n. Road serving houses, shops, etc., lying back from the main road.
Sesame n. 1 e. Indian plant with oil-yielding seeds. 2 its seeds. open sesame
magic phrase for opening a locked door or gaining access. [greek]
Sessile adj. 1 (of a flower, leaf, eye, etc.) Attached directly by its base without a
stalk or peduncle. 2 fixed in one position; immobile. [latin: related to *session]
Set1 v. (-tt-; past and past part. Set) 1 put, lay, or stand in a certain position etc. 2
apply (one thing) to (another) (set pen to paper). 3 a fix ready or in position. B
dispose suitably for use, action, or display. 4 a adjust (a clock or watch) to show
the right time. B adjust (an alarm clock) to sound at the required time. 5 a fix,
arrange, or mount. B insert (a jewel) in a ring etc. 6 make (a device) ready to
operate. 7 lay (a table) for a meal. 8 style (the hair) while damp. 9 (foll. By with)
ornament or provide (a surface). 10 make or bring into a specified state; cause to
be (set things in motion; set it on fire).
Set square n. Right-angled triangular plate for drawing lines, esp. At 90°, 45°,
60°, or 30°.
Setter n. Dog of a long-haired breed trained to stand rigid when scenting game.
Setting n. 1 position or manner in which a thing is set. 2 immediate surroundings
of a house etc. 3 period, place, etc., of a story, drama, etc. 4 frame etc. For a
jewel. 5 music to which words are set. 6 cutlery etc. For one person at a table. 7
level at which a machine is set to operate (on a high setting).
Settle2 n. High-backed wooden bench, often with a box below the seat. [old
english]
Seven adj. & n. 1 one more than six. 2 symbol for this (7, vii, vii). 3 size etc.
Denoted by seven. 4 seven o’clock. [old english]
Sevenfold adj. & adv. 1 seven times as much or as many. 2 consisting of seven
parts.
Seventeen adj. & n. 1 one more than sixteen. 2 symbol for this (17, xvii, xvii). 3
size etc. Denoted by seventeen. seventeenth adj. & n. [old english]
Seventh adj. & n. 1 next after sixth. 2 one of seven equal parts of a thing.
seventhly adv.
Seventy adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 seven times ten. 2 symbol for this (70, lxx, lxx). 3
(in pl.) Numbers from 70 to 79, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life.
(in pl.) Numbers from 70 to 79, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life.
seventieth adj. & n. [old english]
Several —adj. & pron. More than two but not many; a few. —adj. Formal
separate or respective (went their several ways). severally adv. [latin separ
distinct]
Severe adj. 1 rigorous and harsh (severe critic). 2 serious (severe shortage). 3
forceful (severe storm). 4 extreme (severe winter). 5 exacting (severe
competition). 6 plain in style. severely adv. Severity n. [latin severus]
Sew v. (past part. Sewn or sewed) fasten, join, etc., with a needle and thread or a
sewing-machine. sew up 1 join or enclose by sewing. 2 (esp. In passive) colloq.
Satisfactorily arrange or finish; gain control of. [old english]
Sewage farm n. (also sewage works) place where sewage is treated.
Sewer n. Conduit, usu. Underground, for carrying off drainage water and
sewage. [anglo-french sever(e): related to *ex-1, aqua water]
Sex —n. 1 each of the main groups (male and female) into which living things
are categorized on the basis of their reproductive functions (what sex is your
dog?). 2 sexual instincts, desires, etc., or their manifestation. 3 colloq. Sexual
intercourse. 4 (attrib.) Of or relating to sex or sexual differences. —v. 1
determine the sex of. 2 (as sexed adj.) Having a specified sexual appetite (highly
sexed). [latin sexus]
Sexless adj. 1 neither male nor female. 2 lacking sexual desire or attractiveness.
Sexton n. Person who looks after a church and churchyard, often acting as bell-
ringer and gravedigger. [french segerstein from latin sacristanus]
Sextuple —adj. 1 sixfold. 2 having six parts. 3 being six times as many or as
much. —n. Sixfold number or amount. [medieval latin from latin sex six]
Sexual adj. Of sex, the sexes, or relations between them. sexuality n. Sexually
adv.
Sexy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 sexually attractive, stimulating, or aroused. 2 colloq. (of a
Sexy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 sexually attractive, stimulating, or aroused. 2 colloq. (of a
project etc.) Exciting, trendy. sexily adv. Sexiness n.
Sf abbr. Sforzando.
Sforzando mus. —adj. & adv. With sudden emphasis. —n. (pl. -s or -di) 1
suddenly emphasized note or group of notes. 2 increase in emphasis and
loudness. [italian]
Sh int. = *hush.
Shabby adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 faded and worn, dingy, dilapidated. 2 contemptible (a
shabby trick). shabbily adv. Shabbiness n. [related to *scab]
Shack —n. Roughly built hut or cabin. —v. (foll. By up) slang cohabit, esp. As
lovers. [perhaps from mexican jacal wooden hut]
Shackle —n. 1 metal loop or link, closed by a bolt, used to connect chains etc. 2
fetter for the ankle or wrist. 3 (usu. In pl.) Restraint, impediment. —v. (-ling)
fetter, impede, restrain. [old english]
Shad n. (pl. Same or -s) large edible marine fish. [old english]
Shaddock n. 1 largest citrus fruit, with a thick yellow skin and bitter pulp. 2 tree
bearing these. [capt. Shaddock, who introduced it to the w. Indies in the 17th c.]
Shade —n. 1 comparative darkness (and usu. Coolness) given by shelter from
direct light and heat. 2 area so sheltered. 3 darker part of a picture etc. 4 colour,
esp. As darker or lighter than one similar. 5 comparative obscurity. 6 slight
amount (a shade better). 7 lampshade. 8 screen against the light. 9 (in pl.) Esp.
Us colloq. Sunglasses. 10 literary ghost. 11 (in pl.; foll. By of) reminder of,
suggesting (esp. Something undesirable) (shades of hitler!). —v. (-ding) 1 screen
from light. 2 cover, moderate, or exclude the light of. 3 darken, esp. With
parallel lines to show shadow etc. 4 (often foll. By away, off, into) pass or
change gradually. [old english]
Shading n. Light and shade shown on a map or drawing by parallel lines etc.
Shaft n. 1 narrow usu. Vertical space, for access to a mine, or (in a building) for
a lift, ventilation, etc. 2 (foll. By of) a ray (of light). B bolt (of lightning). 3 stem
or handle of a tool etc. 4 long narrow part supporting, connecting, or driving
thicker part(s) etc. 5 a archaic arrow, spear. B its long slender stem. 6 hurtful or
provocative remark (shafts of wit). 7 each of the pair of poles between which a
horse is harnessed to a vehicle. 8 central stem of a feather. 9 column, esp.
Between the base and capital. [old english]
Shag1 n. 1 coarse kind of cut tobacco. 2 a rough mass of hair etc. B (attrib.) (of a
carpet) with a long rough pile 3 cormorant, esp. The crested cormorant. [old
english]
Shag2 v. (-gg) coarse slang 1 have sexual intercourse with. 2 (usu. In passive;
often foll. By out) exhaust, tire out. [origin unknown]
Shake —v. (-king; past shook; past part. Shaken) 1 move forcefully or quickly
up and down or to and fro. 2 (cause to) tremble or vibrate. 3 agitate, shock, or
upset the composure of. 4 weaken or impair in courage, effectiveness, etc. 5 (of a
voice, note, etc.) Tremble; trill. 6 gesture with (one’s fist, a stick, etc.). 7 colloq.
Shake hands (they shook on the deal). —n. 1 shaking or being shaken. 2 jerk or
shock. 3 (in pl.; prec. By the) colloq. Fit of trembling. 4 mus. Trill. 5 = *milk
shake. no great shakes colloq. Mediocre, poor. Shake down 1 settle or cause to
fall by shaking. 2 settle down; become established. Shake hands (often foll. By
with) clasp hands as a greeting, farewell, in congratulation, as confirmation of a
deal, etc. Shake one’s head turn one’s head from side to side in refusal, denial,
disapproval, or concern. Shake off get rid of or evade (a person or thing). Shake
out 1 empty by shaking. 2 open (a sail, flag, etc.) By shaking. Shake up 1 mix by
shaking. 2 restore to shape by shaking.
Shaker n. 1 person or thing that shakes. 2 container for shaking together the
ingredients of cocktails etc.
Shako n. (pl. -s) cylindrical plumed peaked military hat. [hungarian csákó]
Shale n. Soft rock of consolidated mud or clay that splits easily. shaly adj.
[german: related to *scale2]
Shall v.aux. (3rd sing. Present shall; archaic 2nd sing. Present shalt; past should)
(foll. By infin. Without to, or absol.; present and past only in use) 1 (in the 1st
person) expressing the future tense or (with shall stressed) emphatic intention (i
shall return soon). 2 (in the 2nd and 3rd persons) expressing a strong assertion,
command, or duty (they shall go to the party; thou shalt not steal; they shall
obey). 3 (in 2nd-person questions) expressing an enquiry, esp. To avoid the form
of a request (shall you go to france?). shall i? (or we) do you want me (or us) to?
[old english]
Shallow —adj. 1 of little depth. 2 superficial, trivial. —n. (often in pl.) Shallow
place. shallowness n. [old english]
Sham —v. (-mm-) 1 feign, pretend. 2 pretend to be. —n. 1 imposture, pretence.
2 bogus or false person or thing. —adj. Pretended, counterfeit. [origin unknown]
Shaman n. Witch-doctor or priest claiming to communicate with gods etc.
shamanism n. [russian]
Shamble —v. (-ling) walk or run awkwardly, dragging the feet. —n. Shambling
gait. [perhaps related to *shambles]
Shampoo —n. 1 liquid for washing the hair. 2 similar substance for washing
cars, carpets, etc. —v. (-poos, -pooed) wash with shampoo. [hindustani]
Shandy n. (pl. -ies) beer with lemonade or ginger beer. [origin unknown]
Shanghai v. (-hais, -haied, -haiing) 1 colloq. Trick or force someone into doing
something. 2 trick or force (a person) into serving as a sailor. [shanghai in china]
Shank n. 1 a leg. B lower part of the leg. C shin-bone. 2 shaft or stem, esp. The
part of a tool etc. Joining the handle to the working end. [old english]
Shanty2 n. (pl. -ies) (in full sea shanty) sailors’ work song. [probably french
chanter: related to *chant]
Share1 —n. 1 portion of a whole allotted to or taken from a person. 2 each of the
equal parts into which a company’s capital is divided, entitling its owner to a
proportion of the profits. —v. (-ring) 1 (also absol.) Have or use with another or
others; get, have, or give a share of (we shared a room; refused to share; shared
his food). 2 (foll. By in) participate. 3 (often foll. By out) divide and distribute
(let’s share the last cake). 4 have in common (shared the same beliefs). [old
english: related to *shear]
english: related to *shear]
Sharp —adj. 1 having an edge or point able to cut or pierce. 2 tapering to a point
or edge. 3 abrupt, steep, angular. 4 well-defined, clean-cut. 5 a severe or intense.
B (of food etc.) Pungent, acid. 6 (of a voice etc.) Shrill and piercing. 7 (of words
or temper etc.) Harsh. 8 acute; quick to understand. 9 artful, unscrupulous. 10
vigorous or brisk. 11 mus. Above the normal pitch; a semitone higher than a
specified pitch (c sharp). —n. 1 mus. A note a semitone above natural pitch. B
sign indicating this. 2 colloq. Swindler, cheat. —adv. 1 punctually (at nine
o’clock sharp). 2 suddenly (pulled up sharp). 3 at a sharp angle. 4 mus. Above
true pitch (sings sharp). sharply adv. Sharpness n. [old english]
Sharpish colloq. —adj. Fairly sharp. —adv. 1 fairly sharply. 2 quite quickly.
Shave —v. (-ving; past part. Shaved or (as adj.) Shaven) 1 remove (bristles or
hair) with a razor. 2 (also absol.) Remove bristles or hair with a razor from (a
person, face, leg, etc.). 3 reduce by a small amount. 4 pare (wood etc.) To shape
it. 5 miss or pass narrowly. —n. 1 shaving or being shaved. 2 narrow miss or
escape. 3 tool for shaving wood etc. [old english]
Shawl n. Large usu. Rectangular piece of fabric worn over the shoulders or head,
or wrapped round a baby. [urdu from persian shal]
She —pron. (obj. Her; poss. Her; pl. They) the woman, girl, female animal, ship,
or country, etc. Previously named or in question. —n. 1 female; woman. 2 (in
comb.) Female (she-goat). [old english]
S/he pron. Written representation of ‘he or she’ used to indicate either sex.
Sheaf —n. (pl. Sheaves) bundle of things laid lengthways together and usu. Tied,
esp. Reaped corn or a collection of papers. —v. Make into sheaves. [old english]
Shear —v. (past sheared; past part. Shorn or sheared) 1 (also absol.) Clip the
wool off (a sheep etc.). 2 remove or take off by cutting. 3 cut with scissors or
shears etc. 4 (foll. By of) a strip bare. B deprive. 5 (often foll. By off) distort, be
distorted, or break, from structural strain. —n. 1 strain produced by pressure in
the structure of a substance. 2 (in pl.) (also pair of shears sing.) Large scissor-
shaped clipping or cutting instrument. shearer n. [old english]
Sheath n. (pl. -s) 1 close-fitting cover, esp. For the blade of a knife or sword. 2
condom. 3 enclosing case, covering, or tissue. 4 woman’s close-fitting dress.
[old english]
[old english]
Shed2 v. (-dd-; past and past part. Shed) 1 let, or cause to, fall off (trees shed
their leaves). 2 take off (clothes). 3 reduce (an electrical power load) by
disconnection etc. 4 cause to fall or flow (shed blood; shed tears). 5 disperse,
diffuse, radiate (shed light). 6 get rid of (ibm are shedding 200 jobs; shed your
inhibitions). shed light on help to explain. [old english]
Sheep n. (pl. Same) 1 mammal with a thick woolly coat, esp. Kept for its wool or
meat. 2 timid, silly, or easily-led person. 3 (usu. In pl.) Member of a minister’s
congregation. [old english]
Sheepdog n. 1 dog trained to guard and herd sheep. 2 dog of a breed suitable for
this.
Sheepskin n. 1 (often attrib.) Sheep’s skin with the wool on. 2 leather from
sheep’s skin.
Sheer1 —adj. 1 mere, complete (sheer luck). 2 (of a cliff etc.) Perpendicular. 3
(of a textile) diaphanous. —adv. Directly, perpendicularly. [old english]
Sheer2 v. 1 esp. Naut. Swerve or change course. 2 (foll. By away, off) turn
away, esp. From a person or topic one dislikes or fears. [origin unknown]
Sheet1 —n. 1 large rectangle of cotton etc. Used esp. In pairs as inner
bedclothes. 2 broad usu. Thin flat piece of paper, metal, etc. 3 wide expanse of
water, ice, flame, falling rain, etc. 4 page of unseparated postage stamps. 5
derog. Newspaper. —v. 1 provide or cover with sheets. 2 form into sheets. 3 (of
rain etc.) Fall in sheets. [old english]
Sheet2 n. Rope or chain attached to the lower corner of a sail to hold or control
it. [old english: related to *sheet1]
Shekel n. 1 chief monetary unit of modern israel. 2 hist. Silver coin and unit of
weight in ancient israel etc. 3 (in pl.) Colloq. Money; riches. [hebrew]
Shelduck n. (pl. Same or -s; masc. Sheldrake, pl. Same or -s) bright-plumaged
wild duck. [probably from dial. Sheld pied, *duck1]
Shelf n. (pl. Shelves) 1 wooden etc. Board projecting from a wall, or as part of a
unit, used to store things. 2 a projecting horizontal ledge in a cliff face etc. B reef
or sandbank. on the shelf 1 (of a woman) regarded as too old to hope for
marriage. 2 (esp. Of a retired person) put aside as if no longer useful. [low
german]
Shell —n. 1 a hard outer case of many molluscs, the tortoise, etc. B hard but
fragile case of an egg. C hard outer case of a nut-kernel, seed, etc. 2 a explosive
projectile for use in a big gun etc. B hollow container for fireworks, cartridges,
etc. 3 shell-like thing, esp.: a a light racing-boat. B the metal framework of a
vehicle etc. C the walls of an unfinished or gutted building, ship, etc. —v. 1
remove the shell or pod from. 2 bombard with shells. come out of one’s shell
become less shy. Shell out (also absol.) Colloq. Pay (money). shell-less adj.
Shell-like adj. [old english]
Shellac —n. Resin used for making varnish. —v. (-ck-) varnish with shellac.
[from shell, lac]
Shelta n. Ancient hybrid secret language used by irish tinkers, gypsies, etc.
[origin unknown]
Shelter —n. 1 protection from danger, bad weather, etc. 2 place giving shelter or
refuge. —v. 1 act or serve as a shelter to; protect; conceal; defend. 2 find refuge;
take cover. [origin unknown]
Shelve v. (-ving) 1 put aside, esp. Temporarily. 2 put (books etc.) On a shelf. 3
fit with shelves. 4 (of ground etc.) Slope. shelving n.
Sheriff n. 1 a (also high sheriff) chief executive officer of the crown in a county,
administering justice etc. B honorary officer elected annually in some towns. 2
us elected chief law-enforcing officer in a county. 3 (also sheriff-depute) scot.
Chief judge of a county or district. [old english: related to *shire, *reeve1]
Sherpa n. (pl. Same or -s) member of a himalayan people living on the borders
of nepal and tibet. [native name]
Sherry n. (pl. -ies) 1 fortified wine orig. From s. Spain. 2 glass of this. [xeres in
andalusia]
Shiatsu n. Japanese therapy in which pressure is applied, chiefly with fingers and
hands, to specific points on the body. [japanese, = finger pressure]
Shield —n. 1 a piece of armour held in front of the body for protection when
fighting. B person or thing giving protection. 2 shield-shaped trophy. 3
protective plate or screen in machinery etc. 4 heraldry stylized representation of
a shield for displaying a coat of arms etc. —v. Protect or screen. [old english]
Shift —v. 1 (cause to) change or move from one position to another. 2 remove,
esp. With effort. 3 slang a hurry. B consume (food or drink). 4 us change (gear)
in a vehicle. —n. 1 act of shifting. 2 a relay of workers. B time for which they
work. 3 a device, stratagem, or expedient. B trick or evasion. 4 woman’s straight
unwaisted dress or petticoat. 5 physics displacement of a spectral line. 6 key on a
keyboard used to switch between lower and upper case etc. 7 us a gear lever in a
vehicle. B mechanism for this. make shift manage; get along somehow. Shift for
oneself rely on one’s own efforts. Shift one’s ground take up a new position in
an argument etc. [old english]
Shifty adj. Colloq. (-ier, -iest) evasive; deceitful. shiftily adv. Shiftiness n.
Shiite —n. Adherent of the branch of islam rejecting the first three sunni caliphs.
—adj. Of this branch. [arabic shiah, = party]
Shilling n. 1 hist. Former british coin and monetary unit worth one-twentieth of a
pound. 2 monetary unit in kenya, tanzania, and uganda. [old english]
Shim —n. Thin wedge in machinery etc. To make parts fit. —v. (-mm-) fit or fill
up with a shim. [origin unknown]
Shimmer —v. Shine tremulously or faintly. —n. Tremulous or faint light. [old
english]
Shin —n. 1 front of the leg below the knee. 2 cut of beef from this part. —v. (-
nn-) (usu. Foll. By up, down) climb quickly by clinging with the arms and legs.
[old english]
Shin-bone n. = *tibia.
Shine —v. (-ning; past and past part. Shone or shined) 1 emit or reflect light; be
bright; glow. 2 (of the sun, a star, etc.) Be visible. 3 cause (a lamp etc.) To shine.
4 (past and past part. Shined) polish. 5 be brilliant; excel. —n. 1 light;
brightness. 2 high polish; lustre. take a shine to colloq. Take a fancy to. [old
english]
Shingle1 n. Small smooth pebbles, esp. On the seashore. shingly adj. [origin
uncertain]
Shingle2 —n. 1 rectangular wooden tile used on roofs etc. 2 archaic a shingled
hair. B shingling of hair. —v. (-ling) 1 roof with shingles. 2 archaic a cut (a
woman’s hair) short. B cut the hair of (a person or head) in this way. [latin
scindula]
Shingles n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Acute painful viral inflammation of the
nerve ganglia, with a rash often encircling the body. [latin cingulum girdle]
Shinty n. (pl. -ies) 1 game like hockey, but with taller goalposts. 2 stick or ball
used in this. [origin uncertain]
Shiny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having a shine. 2 (of clothing) with the nap worn off.
shininess n.
Ship —n. 1 large seagoing vessel. 2 us aircraft. 3 spaceship. —v. (-pp-) 1 put,
take, or send away in a ship. 2 a take in (water) over a ship’s side etc. B lay
(oars) at the bottom of a boat. C fix (a rudder etc.) In place. 3 a embark. B (of a
sailor) take service on a ship. 4 deliver (goods) to an agent for forwarding. ship
off send away.
Shipshape adv. & predic.adj. Trim, neat, tidy.
Shirk v. (also absol.) Avoid (duty, work, etc.). shirker n. [german schurke
scoundrel]
Shirr —n. Elasticated gathered threads in a garment etc. Forming smocking. —v.
Gather (material) with parallel threads. shirring n. [origin unknown]
Shirt n. Upper-body garment of cotton etc., usu. Front-opening. keep one’s shirt
on colloq. Keep one’s temper. Put one’s shirt on colloq. Bet all one has on.
shirting n. Shirtless adj. [old english]
Shirtsleeve n. (usu. In pl.) Sleeve of a shirt. in shirtsleeves without one’s jacket
on.
Shirty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Angry; annoyed. shirtily adv. Shirtiness n.
Shitty adj. (-ier, -iest) coarse slang 1 disgusting, contemptible. 2 covered with
excrement.
Shiver1 —v. Tremble with cold, fear, etc. —n. 1 momentary shivering
movement. 2 (in pl., prec. By the) attack of shivering. shivery adj. [origin
uncertain]
Shiver2 —n. (esp. In pl.) Small fragment or splinter. —v. Break into shivers.
[related to dial. Shive slice]
Shoal1 —n. Multitude, esp of fish swimming together. —v. (of fish) form
shoals. [dutch: cf. *school2]
Shock1 —n. 1 violent collision, impact, tremor, etc. 2 sudden and disturbing
effect on the emotions etc. 3 acute prostration following a wound, pain, etc. 4 =
*electric shock. 5 disturbance in the stability of an organization etc. —v. 1 a
horrify; outrage. B (absol.) Cause shock. 2 affect with an electric or pathological
shock. [french choc, choquer]
Shock absorber n. Device on a vehicle etc. For absorbing shocks, vibrations, etc.
Shocking adj. 1 causing shock; scandalous. 2 colloq. Very bad. shockingly adv.
Shocking pink adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) vibrant shade of pink.
Shoddy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 poorly made. 2 counterfeit. shoddily adv. Shoddiness
n. [origin unknown]
Shoe —n. 1 protective foot-covering of leather etc., esp. One not reaching above
the ankle. 2 protective metal rim for a horse’s hoof. 3 thing like a shoe in shape
or use. 4 = *brake shoe. —v. (shoes, shoeing; past and past part. Shod) 1 fit (esp.
A horse etc.) With a shoe or shoes. 2 (as shod adj.) (in comb.) Having shoes etc.
Of a specified kind (roughshod). be in a person’s shoes be in his or her situation,
difficulty, etc. [old english]
Shoo —int. Exclamation used to frighten away animals etc. —v. (shoos, shooed)
1 utter the word ‘shoo!’. 2 (usu. Foll. By away) drive away by shooing.
[imitative]
Shoot —v. (past and past part. Shot) 1 a (also absol.) Cause (a weapon) to fire. B
kill or wound with a bullet, arrow, etc. 2 send out, discharge, etc., esp. Swiftly. 3
(often foll. By out, along, forth, etc.) Come or go swiftly or vigorously. 4 a (of a
plant etc.) Put forth buds etc. B (of a bud etc.) Appear. 5 hunt game etc. With a
gun. 6 film or photograph. 7 (also absol.) Esp. Football a score (a goal). B take a
shot at (the goal). 8 (of a boat) sweep swiftly down or under (a bridge, rapids,
etc.). 9 (usu. Foll. By through, up, etc.) (of a pain) seem to stab. 10 (often foll.
By up; also absol.) Slang inject (a drug). —n. 1 a young branch or sucker. B new
growth of a plant. 2 a hunting party, expedition, etc. B land shot over for game. 3
= *chute1. —int. Colloq. Invitation to ask questions etc. shoot down 1 kill by
shooting. 2 cause (an aircraft etc.) To crash by shooting. 3 argue effectively
against. Shoot one’s bolt colloq. Do all that is in one’s power. Shoot one’s
mouth off slang talk too much or indiscreetly. Shoot up 1 grow rapidly. 2 rise
suddenly. 3 terrorize by indiscriminate shooting. The whole shoot (or the whole
shooting match) colloq. Everything. [old english]
Shop —n. 1 place for the retail sale of goods or services. 2 act of going shopping
(did a big shop). 3 place for manufacture or repair (engineering-shop). 4 one’s
profession etc. As a subject of conversation (talk shop). 5 colloq.
Shopping n. 1 (often attrib.) Purchase of goods etc. 2 goods purchased.
Shore1 n. 1 land adjoining the sea, a lake etc. 2 (usu. In pl.) Country (foreign
shores). on shore ashore. [low german or dutch]
Shore2 —n. Prop or beam set against a ship, wall, etc., as a support. —v. (-ring)
(often foll. By up) support (as if) with a shore or shores; hold up. [low german or
dutch]
Short —adj. 1 a measuring little from head to foot, top to bottom, or end to end;
not long. B not long in duration. C seeming short (a few short years of
happiness). 2 a (usu. Foll. By of, on) deficient; scanty (short of spoons). B not
happiness). 2 a (usu. Foll. By of, on) deficient; scanty (short of spoons). B not
far-reaching; acting or being near at hand (short range). 3 a concise; brief. B
curt; uncivil. 4 (of the memory) unable to remember distant events. 5 (of a vowel
or syllable) having the lesser of the two recognized durations. 6 (of pastry) easily
crumbled. 7 (of stocks etc.) Sold or selling when the amount is not in hand, with
reliance on getting the deficit at a lower price in time for delivery. 8 (of a drink
of spirits) undiluted. 9 (of odds or a chance) nearly even. —adv. 1 before the
natural or expected time or place; abruptly. 2 rudely. —n. 1 short circuit. 2
colloq. Short drink. 3 short film. —v. Short-circuit. be caught (or taken) short 1
be put at a disadvantage. 2 colloq. Urgently need to use the lavatory. Be short for
be an abbreviation for. Come short of = fall short of. For short as a short name
(tom for short). In short briefly. Short of 1 see sense 2a of adj. 2 less than
(nothing short of a miracle). 3 distant from (two miles short of home). 4 without
going so far as (did everything short of resigning). Short on colloq. See sense 2a
of adj. shortish adj. Shortness n. [old english]
Shortcake n. 1 = *shortbread. 2 cake of short pastry filled with fruit and cream.
Short circuit —n. Electric circuit through small resistance, esp. Instead of the
resistance of a normal circuit. —v. (short-circuit) 1 cause a short circuit (in). 2
shorten or avoid by taking a more direct route etc.
Short cut n. 1 route shorter than the usual one. 2 quick method.
Shortfall n. Deficit.
Short list —n. List of selected candidates from which a final choice is made. —
v. (short-list) put on a short list.
Shortly adv. 1 (often foll. By before, after) soon. 2 in a few words; curtly. [old
english]
Shorty n. (also shortie) (pl. -ies) colloq. Person or garment shorter than average.
Shot2 past and past part. Of *shoot. —adj. (of coloured material) woven so as to
show different colours at different angles. shot through (usu. Foll. By with)
permeated or suffused.
Should v.aux. (3rd sing. Should) past of *shall, used esp.: 1 in reported speech (i
said i should be home soon). 2 a to express obligation or likelihood (i should tell
you; you should have read it; they should have arrived by now). B to express a
tentative suggestion (i should like to add). 3 a expressing the conditional mood
in the 1st person (i should have been killed if i had gone). B forming a
conditional clause (if you should see him).
Shoulder —n. 1 part of the body at which the arm, foreleg, or wing is attached. 2
either of the two projections below the neck. 3 upper foreleg of an animal as
meat. 4 (often in pl.) Shoulder regarded as supportive, comforting, etc. (a
shoulder to cry on; has broad shoulders). 5 strip of land next to a road. 6 the part
of a garment covering the shoulder. —v. 1 a push with the shoulder. B make
one’s way thus. 2 take on (a burden etc.). put one’s shoulder to the wheel make a
great effort. Shoulder arms hold a rifle with the barrel against the shoulder and
the butt in the hand. Shoulder to shoulder 1 side by side. 2 with united effort.
[old english]
Shoulder-strap n. 1 strip of cloth going over the shoulder from front to back of a
garment. 2 strap suspending a bag etc. From the shoulder. 3 strip of cloth from
shoulder to collar, esp. On a military uniform.
Shout —v. 1 speak or cry loudly. 2 say or express loudly. —n. 1 loud cry of joy
etc., or calling attention. 2 colloq. One’s turn to buy a round of drinks etc. shout
down reduce to silence by shouting. [perhaps related to *shoot]
Shove —v. (-ving) 1 (also absol.) Push vigorously. 2 colloq. Put casually
(shoved it in a drawer). —n. Act of shoving. shove off 1 start from the shore in a
boat. 2 slang depart. [old english]
Shovel —n. 1 spadelike tool with raised sides, for shifting coal etc. 2 (part of) a
machine with a similar form or function. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 move (as if) with a
shovel. 2 colloq. Move in large quantities or roughly (shovelled peas into his
mouth). shovelful n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Show —v. (past part. Shown or showed) 1 be, allow, or cause to be, visible;
manifest (buds are beginning to show; white shows the dirt). 2 (often foll. By to)
offer for scrutiny etc. (show your tickets please). 3 a indicate (one’s feelings)
(showed his anger). B accord, grant (favour, mercy, etc.). 4 (of feelings etc.) Be
manifest (his dislike shows). 5 a demonstrate; point out; prove (showed it to be
false; showed his competence). B (usu. Foll. By how to + infin.) Instruct by
example (showed them how to knit). 6 (refl.) Exhibit oneself (as being) (showed
herself to be fair). 7 exhibit in a show. 8 (often foll. By in, out, up, round, etc.)
Conduct or lead (showed them to their rooms). 9 colloq. = show up 3 (he didn’t
show). —n. 1 showing. 2 spectacle, display, exhibition, etc. 3 public
entertainment or performance. 4 a outward appearance or display. B empty
appearance; mere display. 5 colloq. Undertaking, business, etc. 6 med. Discharge
of blood etc. At the onset of childbirth. good (or bad or poor) show! Colloq. That
was well (or badly) done. On show being exhibited. Show one’s hand disclose
one’s plans. Show off 1 display to advantage. 2 colloq. Act pretentiously. Show
up 1 make or be conspicuous or clearly visible. 2 expose or humiliate. 3 colloq.
Appear; arrive. Show willing show a willingness to help etc. [old english]
Showcase —n. 1 glass case for exhibiting goods etc. 2 event etc. Designed to
exhibit someone or something to advantage. —v. (-sing) display in or as if in a
showcase.
Shower —n. 1 brief fall of rain, snow, etc. 2 a brisk flurry of bullets, dust, etc. B
sudden copious arrival of gifts, honours, etc. 3 (in full shower-bath) a cubicle,
bath, etc. In which one stands under a spray of water. B apparatus etc. Used for
this. C act of bathing in a shower. 4 us party for giving presents to a prospective
bride etc. 5 slang contemptible person or group. —v. 1 discharge (water,
missiles, etc.) In a shower. 2 take a shower. 3 (usu. Foll. By on, upon) lavishly
bestow (gifts etc.). 4 descend in a shower. showery adj. [old english]
Show house n. (also show flat) furnished and decorated new house etc., on show
to prospective buyers.
Showy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 brilliant; gaudy. 2 striking. showily adv. Showiness n.
Shred —n. 1 scrap or fragment. 2 least amount (not a shred of evidence). —v. (-
dd-) tear or cut into shreds. shredder n. [old english]
Shrewd adj. Astute; clever and judicious. shrewdly adv. Shrewdness n. [perhaps
from obsolete shrew to curse, from *shrew]
Shriek —n. Shrill scream or sound. —v. Make or utter in a shriek. [old norse]
Shrike n. Bird with a strong hooked and toothed bill. [old english]
Shrimp —n. 1 (pl. Same or -s) small edible crustacean, turning pink when
boiled. 2 colloq. Very small person. —v. Try to catch shrimps. [origin uncertain]
Shrink —v. (past shrank; past part. Shrunk or (esp. As adj.) Shrunken) 1 make or
become smaller, esp. From moisture, heat, or cold. 2 (usu. Foll. By from) recoil;
flinch. —n. 1 act of shrinking. 2 slang psychiatrist. [old english]
Shrive v. (-ving; past shrove; past part. Shriven) rc ch. Archaic 1 (of a priest)
hear and absolve (a penitent). 2 (refl.) Submit oneself to a priest for confession
etc. [old english scrifan impose as penance]
Shrivel v. (-ll-; us -l-) contract into a wrinkled or dried-up state. [perhaps from
old norse]
Shroud —n. 1 wrapping for a corpse. 2 thing that conceals. 3 (in pl.) Ropes
supporting a mast. —v. 1 clothe (a body) for burial. 2 cover or conceal. [old
english, = garment]
english, = garment]
Shrub n. Any woody plant smaller than a tree and with branches near the ground.
shrubby adj. [old english]
Shrug —v. (-gg-) (often absol.) Slightly and momentarily raise (the shoulders) to
express indifference, doubt, etc. —n. Act of shrugging. shrug off dismiss as
unimportant. [origin unknown]
Shudder —v. 1 shiver, esp. Convulsively, from fear, cold, etc. 2 feel strong
repugnance, fear, etc. (shudder at the thought). 3 vibrate. —n. 1 act of
shuddering. 2 (in pl.; prec. By the) colloq. State of shuddering. [low german or
dutch]
Shuffle —v. (-ling) 1 (also absol.) Drag (the feet) in walking etc. 2 (also absol.)
Rearrange or intermingle (esp. Cards or papers). 3 a prevaricate, be evasive. B
keep shifting one’s position. —n. 1 act of shuffling; shuffling walk or
movement. 2 change of relative positions. 3 shuffling dance. shuffle off remove,
get rid of. [low german]
Shufti n. (pl. -s) colloq. Look, glimpse. [arabic saffa try to see]
Shunt —v. 1 move (a train) between sidings etc.; (of a train) be shunted. 2 move
or put aside; redirect. —n. 1 shunting or being shunted. 2 electr. Conductor
joining two points of a circuit, through which current may be diverted. 3 surgery
alternative path for the circulation of the blood. 4 slang collision of vehicles, esp.
One behind another. [perhaps from *shun]
Shush —int. Hush! —v. 1 quieten (a person or people) by saying “shush”. 2 fall
silent. [imitative]
Shut v. (-tt-; past and past part. Shut) 1 a move (a door, window, lid, etc.) Into
position to block an opening. B close or seal (a room, box, eye, etc.) By moving
a door etc. 2 become or be capable of being closed or sealed. 3 become or make
closed for trade. 4 fold or contract (a book, telescope, etc.). 5 (usu. Foll. By in,
out) keep in or out of a room etc. 6 (usu. Foll. By in) catch (a finger, dress, etc.)
By shutting something on it. 7 bar access to. be (or get) shut of slang be (or get)
rid of. Shut down 1 stop (a factory etc.) From operating. 2 (of a factory etc.) Stop
operating. Shut off 1 stop the flow of (water, gas, etc.). 2 separate from society
etc. Shut out 1 exclude. 2 screen from view. 3 prevent. 4 block from the mind.
Shut up 1 close all doors and windows of. 2 imprison. 3 put (a thing) away in a
box etc. 4 (esp. In imper.) Colloq. Stop talking. Shut up shop close a business,
shop, etc., temporarily or permanently. [old english]
Shutter —n. 1 movable hinged cover for a window. 2 device that exposes the
film in a camera. —v. Provide with shutters.
Shuttle —n. 1 a (in a loom) instrument pulling the weft-thread between the
warp-threads. B (in a sewing-machine) bobbin carrying the lower thread. 2 train,
bus, etc. Used in a shuttle service. 3 = space shuttle. —v. (-ling) (cause to) move
to and fro like a shuttle. [old english: related to shoot]
Shuttle service n. Transport service operating to and fro over a short route.
Shy1 —adj. (shyer, shyest or shier, shiest) 1 a timid and nervous in company;
selfconscious. B (of animals etc.) Easily startled. 2 (in comb.) Disliking or
fearing (work-shy). —v. (shies, shied) 1 (usu. Foll. By at) (esp. Of a horse) turn
suddenly aside in fright. 2 (usu. Foll. By away from, at) avoid involvement in.
—n. Sudden startled movement. shyly adv. (also shily). Shyness n. [old english]
Shy2 —v. (shies, shied) (also absol.) Fling, throw. —n. (pl. Shies) fling, throw.
[origin unknown]
Si symb. Silicon.
Siamese —n. (pl. Same) 1 native or language of siam (now thailand) in asia. 2
(in full siamese cat) cat of a cream-coloured short-haired breed with dark
markings and blue eyes. —adj. Of siam, its people, or language.
Siamese twins n.pl. 1 twins joined at some part of the body. 2 any closely
associated pair.
Sibilant —adj. 1 sounded with a hiss. 2 hissing. —n. Sibilant letter or sound.
Sibilant —adj. 1 sounded with a hiss. 2 hissing. —n. Sibilant letter or sound.
sibilance n. Sibilancy n. [latin]
Sibling n. Each of two or more children having one or both parents in common.
[old english, = akin]
Sick —adj. 1 esp. Us unwell, ill. 2 vomiting or likely to vomit. 3 (often foll. By
of) colloq. A disgusted; surfeited. B angry, esp. Because of surfeit. 4 colloq. (of
a joke etc.) Cruel, morbid, perverted, offensive. 5 a mentally disordered. B (esp.
In comb.) Pining (lovesick). —n. Colloq. Vomit. —v. (usu. Foll. By up) colloq.
Vomit. take (or fall) sick colloq. Be taken ill. [old english]
Sicken v. 1 affect with disgust etc. 2 a (often foll. By for) show symptoms of
illness. B (often foll. By at, or to + infin.) Feel nausea or disgust. 3 (as sickening
adj.) A disgusting. B colloq. Very annoying. sickeningly adv.
Sickle n. Short-handled tool with a semicircular blade, used for reaping etc. [old
english]
Sickly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 a weak; apt to be ill. B languid, faint, or pale. 2 causing
ill health. 3 sentimental or mawkish. 4 of or inducing nausea. [related to *sick]
Side —n. 1 a each of the surfaces bounding an object. B vertical inner or outer
surface. C such a surface as distinct from the top or bottom, front or back. 2 a
right or left part of a person or animal, esp. Of the torso. B left or right half or a
specified part of a thing. C (often in comb.) Adjoining position (seaside; stood at
my side). D direction (from all sides). 3 a either surface of a thing regarded as
having two surfaces. B writing filling one side of a sheet of paper. 4 aspect of a
question, character, etc. (look on the bright side). 5 a each of two competing
groups in war, politics, games, etc. B cause etc. Regarded as being in conflict
with another. 6 a part or region near the edge. B (attrib.) Subordinate, peripheral,
or detached part (side-road; side-table). 7 colloq. Television channel. 8 each of
the bounding lines of a plane rectilinear figure. 9 position nearer or farther than,
or right or left of, a given dividing line. 10 line of descent through one parent. 11
(in full side spin) spin given to a billiard-ball etc. By hitting it on one side. 12
slang cheek; pretensions (has no side about him). —v. (-ding) (usu. Foll. By
with) take part or be on the same side. by the side of 1 close to. 2 compared with.
Let the side down embarrass or fail one’s colleagues. On one side 1 not in the
main or central position. 2 aside. On the … side somewhat (on the high side). On
the side 1 as a sideline. 2 illicitly. 3 us as a side dish. Side by side standing close
together, esp. For mutual support. Take sides support one or other cause etc. [old
english]
Sideboard n. Table or esp. A flat-topped cupboard for dishes, table linen, etc.
Sideboards n.pl. Colloq. Hair grown by a man down the sides of his face.
Sided adj. 1 having sides. 2 (in comb.) Having a specified number or type of
sides.
Side-effect n. Secondary (usu. Undesirable) effect.
Sidelight n. 1 light from the side. 2 small light at the side of the front of a
vehicle. 3 naut. Light on the side of a moving ship.
Sideline n. 1 work etc. Done in addition to one’s main activity. 2 (usu. In pl.) A
line bounding the side of a hockey-pitch etc. B space next to these where
spectators etc. Sit. on the sidelines not directly concerned.
Side-saddle —n. Saddle for a woman riding with both legs on the same side of
the horse. —adv. Riding in this position.
Sidestep —n. Step to the side. —v. (-pp-) 1 avoid by stepping sideways. 2 evade.
Side-swipe —n. 1 glancing blow on or from the side. 2 incidental criticism etc.
—v. Hit (as if) with a side-swipe.
Sidewalk n. Us pavement.
Sideways —adv. 1 to or from a side. 2 with one side facing forward. —adj. To
or from a side.
Siding n. Short track at the side of a railway line, used for shunting.
Sidle v. (-ling) (usu. Foll. By along, up) walk timidly or furtively. [shortening of
*sidelong]
Sierra n. Long jagged mountain chain, esp. In spain or spanish america. [spanish
from latin serra saw]
Siesta n. Afternoon sleep or rest, esp. In hot countries. [spanish from latin sexta
(hora) sixth hour]
Sieve —n. Perforated or meshed utensil for separating solids or coarse material
from liquids or fine particles, or for pulping. —v. (-ving) sift. [old english]
Sift v. 1 put through a sieve. 2 (usu. Foll. By from, out) separate (finer or coarser
parts) from material. 3 sprinkle (esp. Sugar) from a perforated container. 4
examine (evidence, facts, etc.). 5 (of snow, light, etc.) Fall as if from a sieve.
[old english]
Sigh —v. 1 emit an audible breath in sadness, weariness, relief, etc. 2 (foll. By
for) yearn for. 3 express with sighs. 4 make a sighing sound. —n. 1 act of
sighing. 2 sound made in sighing. [old english]
Sight —n. 1 a faculty of seeing. B act of seeing or being seen. 2 thing seen. 3
opinion (in my sight). 4 range of vision (out of sight). 5 (usu. In pl.) Noteworthy
features of a town etc. 6 a device on a gun, telescope, etc., for assisting aim or
observation. B aim or observation so gained. 7 colloq. Unsightly person or thing
(looked a sight). 8 colloq. Great deal (a sight too clever). —v. 1 get sight of,
observe the presence of (they sighted land). 2 aim (a gun etc.) With a sight. at
first sight on first glimpse or impression. At (or on) sight as soon as a person or a
thing has been seen. Catch (or lose) sight of begin (or cease) to see or be aware
of. In sight 1 visible. 2 near at hand. Set one’s sights on aim at. [old english:
related to *see1]
Sighted adj. 1 not blind. 2 (in comb.) Having specified vision (long-sighted).
Sight-screen n. Cricket large white screen placed near the boundary in line with
the wicket to help the batsman see the ball.
Sigma n. Eighteenth letter of the greek alphabet (s, s, or, when final, v). [latin
from greek]
Sign —n. 1 thing indicating a quality, state, future event, etc. (sign of weakness).
2 mark, symbol, etc. 3 gesture or action conveying an order etc. 4 signboard;
signpost. 5 each of the twelve divisions of the zodiac. —v. 1 a (also absol.)
Write (one’s name) on a document etc. As authorization. B sign (a document) as
authorization. 2 communicate by gesture (signed to me to come). 3 engage or be
engaged by signing a contract etc. (see also sign on, sign up). sign away
relinquish (property etc.) By signing. Sign in 1 sign a register on arrival. 2 get (a
person) admitted by signing a register. Sign off 1 end work, broadcasting, etc. 2
withdraw one’s claim to unemployment benefit after finding work. Sign on 1
agree to a contract etc. 2 employ (a person). 3 register as unemployed. Sign out
sign a register on departing. Sign up 1 engage (a person). 2 enlist in the armed
forces. 3 enrol. [latin signum]
Signal-box n. Building beside a railway track from which signals are controlled.
Signatory —n. (pl. -ies) party that has signed an agreement, esp. A treaty. —adj.
Having signed such an agreement etc. [latin: related to *sign]
Signboard n. Board displaying a name or symbol etc. Outside a shop or hotel etc.
Sign of the cross n. Christian sign made by tracing a cross with the hand.
Signor n. (pl. -nori) title used of or to an italian-speaking man. [latin senior
*senior]
Signpost —n. 1 post on a road etc. Indicating direction etc. 2 indication, guide.
—v. Provide with a signpost or signposts.
Silencer n. Device for reducing the noise of a vehicle’s exhaust, a gun, etc.
Silent adj. Not speaking; not making or accompanied by any sound. silently adv.
[latin sileo be silent]
[latin sileo be silent]
Silent majority n. The mass of allegedly moderate people who rarely express an
opinion.
Silhouette —n. 1 picture showing the outline only, usu. In black on white or cut
from paper. 2 dark shadow or outline against a lighter background. —v. (-ting)
represent or (usu. In passive) show in silhouette. [silhouette, name of a
politician]
Silica gel n. Hydrated silica in a hard granular form used as a drying agent.
Silicone n. Any organic compound of silicon, with high resistance to cold, heat,
water, etc.
Silicosis n. Lung fibrosis caused by inhaling dust containing silica.
Silk n. 1 fine soft lustrous fibre produced by silkworms. 2 (often attrib.) Thread
or cloth from this. 3 (in pl.) Cloth or garments of silk, esp. As worn by a jockey.
4 colloq. Queen’s (or king’s) counsel, as having the right to wear a silk gown. 5
fine soft thread (embroidery silk). take silk become a queen’s (or king’s)
counsel. [old english sioloc]
Silky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 soft and smooth like silk. 2 suave. silkily adv. Silkiness
n.
Sill n. Slab of stone, wood, or metal at the foot of a window or doorway. [old
english]
Silo n. (pl. -s) 1 pit or airtight barn etc. In which green crops are kept for fodder.
2 pit or tower for storing grain, cement, etc. 3 underground storage chamber for
a guided missile. [spanish from latin]
Silt —n. Sediment in a channel, harbour, etc. —v. (often foll. By up) choke or be
choked with silt. [perhaps scandinavian]
Silurian geol. —adj. Of the third period of the palaeozoic era. —n. This period.
[silures, people of ancient wales]
Silver plate n. Vessels, cutlery, etc., plated with silver. silver-plated adj.
Silvery adj. 1 like silver in colour or appearance. 2 having a clear gentle ringing
sound.
Simian —adj. 1 of the anthropoid apes. 2 like an ape or monkey. —n. Ape or
monkey. [latin simia ape]
Similar adj. 1 like, alike. 2 (often foll. By to) having a resemblance. 3 geom.
Shaped alike. similarity n. (pl. -ies). Similarly adv. [latin similis like]
Simile n. 1 esp. Poetical comparison of one thing with another using the words
‘like’ or ‘as’ (e.g. As brave as a lion). 2 use of this. [latin, neuter of similis like]
Simnel cake n. Rich fruit cake, usu. With a marzipan layer and decoration, eaten
esp. At easter. [latin simila fine flour]
Simplicity n. Fact or condition of being simple.
Simultaneous adj. (often foll. By with) occurring or operating at the same time.
simultaneity n. Simultaneously adv. [latin simul at the same time]
Sin1 —n. 1 a breaking of divine or moral law, esp. Deliberately. B such an act. 2
offence against good taste or propriety etc. —v. (-nn-) 1 commit a sin. 2 (foll. By
against) offend. [old english]
Since —prep. Throughout or during the period after (has been here since june;
happened since yesterday). —conj. 1 during or in the time after (what have you
done since we met?). 2 because. —adv. 1 from that time or event until now (has
not seen him since). 2 ago (many years since). [old english, = after that]
Sincere adj. (sincerer, sincerest) 1 free from pretence. 2 genuine, honest, frank.
sincerity n. [latin]
Sine n. Ratio of the side opposite a given angle (in a right-angled triangle) to the
hypotenuse. [latin *sinus]
Sinew n. 1 tough fibrous tissue uniting muscle to bone; a tendon. 2 (in pl.)
Muscles; bodily strength. 3 (in pl.) Strength or framework of a thing. sinewy adj.
[old english]
Sinful adj. Committing or involving sin. sinfully adv. Sinfulness n.
Sing —v. (past sang; past part. Sung) 1 utter musical sounds, esp. Words with a
set tune. 2 utter or produce by singing. 3 (of the wind, a kettle, etc.) Hum, buzz,
or whistle. 4 (of the ears) hear a humming sound. 5 slang turn informer. 6 (foll.
By of) literary celebrate in verse. —n. Act or spell of singing. sing out shout.
Sing the praises of praise enthusiastically. singer n. [old english]
Singe —v. (-geing) 1 burn superficially; scorch. 2 burn off the tips of (hair). —n.
Superficial burn. [old english]
Single —adj. 1 one only, not double or multiple. 2 united or undivided. 3 for or
done by one person etc. 4 one by itself (a single tree). 5 regarded separately
(every single thing). 6 not married. 7 (with neg. Or interrog.) Even one (not a
single car). 8 (of a flower) having only one circle of petals. —n. 1 single thing,
esp. A single room in a hotel. 2 (in full single ticket) ticket valid for an outward
journey only. 3 pop record with one item on each side. 4 cricket hit for one run.
5 (usu. In pl.) Game with one player on each side. 6 (in pl.) Unmarried people.
—v. (foll. By out) choose for special attention etc. singly adv. [latin singulus]
Single-breasted adj. (of a coat etc.) Having only one vertical row of buttons and
overlapping little down the front.
Single combat n. Duel.
Single file —n. Line of people one behind another. —adv. One behind the other.
Singleton n. 1 one card only of a suit in a player’s hand. 2 single person or thing.
[after simpleton]
Singsong —n. Informal singing party. —adj. Monotonously rising and falling.
[from *sing, *song]
Sinhalese (also singhalese) —n. (pl. Same) 1 member of a n. Indian people now
forming the majority of the population of sri lanka. 2 their language. —adj. Of
this people or language. [sanskrit]
Sink —v. (past sank or sunk; past part. Sunk or as adj. Sunken) 1 fall or come
slowly downwards. 2 disappear below the horizon. 3 a go or penetrate below the
surface esp. Of a liquid. B (of a ship) go to the bottom of the sea etc. 4 settle
comfortably. 5 a decline in strength etc. B (of the voice) descend in pitch or
volume. 6 cause or allow to sink or penetrate. 7 cause (a plan, person, etc.) To
fail. 8 dig (a well) or bore (a shaft).
Sinking fund n. Money set aside gradually for the eventual repayment of a debt.
Sino-comb. Form chinese; chinese and (sino-american). [greek sinai the chinese]
Sinology n. The study of the chinese language, chinese history, etc. sinologist n.
Sinus n. Cavity of bone or tissue, esp. In the skull connecting with the nostrils.
[latin, = bosom, recess]
Sip —v. (-pp-) drink in small mouthfuls. —n. 1 small mouthful of liquid. 2 act
of taking this. [perhaps var. Of *sup1]
Siphon —n. 1 tube shaped like an inverted v or u with unequal legs, used to
convey liquid from a container to a lower level by atmospheric pressure. 2 bottle
from which aerated water is forced by the pressure of gas. —v. (often foll. By
off) 1 (cause to) flow through a siphon. 2 divert or set aside (funds etc.). [greek,
= pipe]
= pipe]
Sir n. 1 polite form of address or reference to a man. 2 (sir) title prefixed to the
forename of a knight or baronet. [from *sire]
Sire —n. 1 male parent of an animal, esp. A stallion. 2 archaic form of address to
a king. 3 archaic father or male ancestor. —v. (-ring) (esp. Of an animal) beget.
[french from latin senior *senior]
Siren n. 1 a device for making a loud wailing or warning sound. B this sound. 2
(in greek mythology) woman or winged creature whose singing lured unwary
sailors on to rocks. 3 (often attrib.) Temptress; seductress. [greek seiren]
Sirloin n. Upper and choicer part of a loin of beef. [french: related to sur-1, loin]
Sirocco n. (also scirocco) (pl. -s) 1 saharan simoom. 2 warm sultry wind in s.
Europe. [arabic sharuk]
Sisal n. 1 fibre made from a mexican agave. 2 this plant. [sisal, the port of
yucatan]
Sissy (also cissy) colloq. —n. (pl. -ies) effeminate or cowardly person. —adj. (-
ier, -iest) effeminate; cowardly. [from *sis]
Sisyphean adj. (of toil) endless and fruitless like that of sisyphus (who endlessly
pushed a stone uphill in hades). [latin from greek]
Sit v. (-tt-; past and past part. Sat) 1 support the body by resting the buttocks on
the ground or a seat etc. 2 cause to sit; place in a sitting position. 3 a (of a bird)
perch or warm the eggs in its nest. B (of an animal) rest with the hind legs bent
and the buttocks on the ground. 4 (of a committee etc.) Be in session. 5 (usu.
Foll. By for) pose (for a portrait). 6 (foll. By for) be a member of parliament for
(a constituency). 7 (often foll. By for) take (an examination). 8 be in a more or
less permanent position or condition (left sitting in rome; parcel sitting on the
doorstep). 9 (of clothes etc.) Fit or hang in a certain way. 10 babysit. be sitting
pretty be comfortably placed. Sit at a person’s feet be a person’s pupil. Sit back
relax one’s efforts. Sit down 1 sit after standing. 2 cause to sit. 3 (foll. By under)
submit tamely to (an insult etc.). Sit in 1 occupy a place as a protest. 2 (foll. By
for) take the place of. 3 (foll. By on) be present as a guest or observer at (a
meeting etc.). Sit in judgement be censorious or self-righteous. Sit on 1 be a
member of (a committee etc.). 2 hold a session or inquiry concerning. 3 colloq.
Delay action about. 4 colloq. Repress, rebuke, or snub. Sit on the fence remain
neutral or undecided. Sit out 1 take no part in (a dance etc.). 2 stay till the end of
(esp. An ordeal). 3 sit outdoors. Sit tight colloq. 1 remain firmly in one’s place. 2
not yield. Sit up 1 rise from lying to sitting. 2 sit firmly upright. 3 go to bed late.
4 colloq. Become interested or aroused etc. Sit well on suit or fit. [old english]
Sit-down —attrib. Adj. 1 (of a meal) eaten sitting at a table. 2 (of a protest etc.)
With demonstrators occupying their workplace or sitting down on the ground in
a public place. —n. 1 spell of sitting. 2 sit-down protest etc.
Site —n. 1 ground chosen or used for a town or building. 2 place of or for some
activity (camping site). —v. (-ting) locate, place. [latin situs]
Sitka n. (in full sitka spruce) fast-growing spruce yielding timber. [sitka in
alaska]
Sitter n. 1 person who sits, esp. For a portrait. 2 = babysitter (see *babysit). 3
colloq. Easy catch or shot.
Sitting —n. 1 continuous period spent engaged in an activity (finished the book
in one sitting). 2 time during which an assembly is engaged in business. 3
session in which a meal is served. —adj. 1 having sat down. 2 (of an animal or
bird) still. 3 (of an mp etc.) Current.
Sit-up n. Physical exercise of sitting up from a supine position without using the
arms or hands.
Six adj. & n. 1 one more than five. 2 symbol for this (6, vi, vi). 3 size etc.
Denoted by six. 4 cricket hit scoring six runs. 5 six o’clock. at sixes and sevens
in confusion or disagreement. Knock (or hit) for six colloq. Utterly surprise or
overcome. [old english]
Sixer n. 1 cricket hit for six runs. 2 brownie or cub in charge of a group of six.
Sixfold adj. & adv. 1 six times as much or as many. 2 consisting of six parts.
Sixpence n. 1 sum of six esp. Old pence. 2 hist. Coin worth this.
Sixteen adj. & n. 1 one more than fifteen. 2 symbol for this (16, xvi, xvi). 3 size
etc. Denoted by sixteen. sixteenth adj. & n. [old english]
Sixth adj. & n. 1 next after fifth. 2 any of six equal parts of a thing. sixthly adv.
Sixty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 six times ten. 2 symbol for this (60, lx, lx). 3 (in pl.)
Numbers from 60 to 69, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life. sixtieth
adj. & n. [old english]
Size1 —n. 1 relative dimensions, magnitude. 2 each of the classes into which
similar things are divided according to size. —v. (-zing) sort in sizes or
according to size. the size of it colloq. The truth of the matter. Size up colloq.
Form a judgement of. sized adj. (also in comb.). [french sise]
Size2 —n. Sticky solution used in glazing paper, stiffening textiles, etc. —v. (-
zing) treat with size. [perhaps = *size1]
Sizzle —v. (-ling) 1 sputter or hiss, esp. In frying. 2 colloq. Be very hot or
excited etc. —n. Sizzling sound. sizzling adj. & adv. [imitative]
Skate1 —n. 1 boot with a blade attached for gliding on ice; this blade. 2 =
*roller-skate. —v. (-ting) 1 a move on skates. B perform (a specified figure) on
skates. 2 (foll. By over) refer fleetingly to, disregard. get one’s skates on slang
make haste. Skate on thin ice colloq. Behave rashly, risk danger. skater n. [dutch
schaats from french]
Skate2 n. (pl. Same or -s) large flat marine fish used as food. [old norse]
Skateboard —n. Short narrow board on two pairs of trucks, for riding on while
standing. —v. Ride on a skateboard. skateboarder n.
Sketchy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 giving only a rough outline, like a sketch. 2 colloq.
Unsubstantial or imperfect, esp. Through haste. sketchily adv. Sketchiness n.
Skew —adj. Oblique, slanting, set askew. —n. Slant. —v. 1 make skew. 2
distort. 3 move obliquely. on the skew askew. [french: related to *eschew]
Skewbald —adj. (esp. Of a horse) with irregular patches of white and another
colour. —n. Skewbald animal. [origin uncertain]
Skewer —n. Long pin designed for holding meat together while cooking. —v.
Fasten together or pierce (as) with a skewer. [origin uncertain]
Ski —n. (pl. -s) 1 each of a pair of long narrow pieces of wood etc., fastened
under the feet for travelling over snow. 2 similar device under a vehicle or
aircraft. —v. (skis, ski’d or skied, skiing) travel on skis. skier n. [norwegian
from old norse]
Skid —v. (-dd-) 1 (of a vehicle etc.) Slide on slippery ground, esp. Sideways or
Skid —v. (-dd-) 1 (of a vehicle etc.) Slide on slippery ground, esp. Sideways or
obliquely. 2 cause (a vehicle) to skid. —n. 1 act of skidding. 2 runner beneath an
aircraft for use when landing. on the skids colloq. About to be discarded or
defeated. Put the skids under colloq. Hasten the downfall or failure of. [origin
unknown]
Ski-jump n. Steep slope levelling off before a sharp drop to allow a skier to leap
through the air. ski-jumping n.
Skilful adj. (us skillful) (often foll. By at, in) having or showing skill. skilfully
adv.
Ski-lift n. Device for carrying skiers up a slope, usu. A cable with hanging seats.
Skill n. (often foll. By in) ability to do something well; technique, expertise. [old
norse, = difference]
Skilled adj. 1 (often foll. By in) skilful. 2 (of work or a worker) requiring or
having skill or special training.
Skillful adj. (brit. Skilful) (often foll. By at, in) having or showing skill. skilfully
adv.
Skim —v. (-mm-) 1 a take a floating layer from the surface of (a liquid). B take
(cream etc.) From the surface of a liquid. 2 a barely touch (a surface) in passing
over. B (often followed by over) deal with or treat (a matter) superficially. 3
(often foll. By over, along) go or glide lightly. 4 (often followed by through)
read or look over cursorily. —n. Skimming. [french: related to *scum]
Skim milk n. (also skimmed milk) milk from which the cream has been
removed.
Skinflint n. Miser.
Skip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 a move along lightly, esp. With alternate hops. B jump
lightly, esp. Over a skipping-rope. C gambol, caper, frisk. 2 (often foll. By from,
off, to) move quickly from one point, subject, etc. To another. 3 (also absol.)
Omit parts of (a text, subject, etc.). 4 colloq. Miss intentionally, not attend. 5
colloq. Leave hurriedly. —n. Skipping movement or action. skip it colloq.
Abandon a topic etc. [probably scandinavian]
Skip2 n. 1 large container for building refuse etc. 2 container for transporting or
raising materials in mining etc. [old norse]
Skipjack n. (in full skipjack tuna) (pl. Same or -s) small striped pacific tuna used
as food. [from *skip1, *jack]
Skipping-rope n. Length of rope turned over the head and under the feet while
jumping it as a game or exercise.
Skirl —n. Shrill sound, esp. Of bagpipes. —v. Make a skirl. [probably
scandinavian]
Skirmish —n. 1 minor battle. 2 short argument or contest of wit etc. —v. Engage
in a skirmish. [french from germanic]
Skirt —n. 1 woman’s garment hanging from the waist. 2 the part of a coat etc.
Hanging below the waist. 3 hanging part at the base of a hovercraft. 4 (in sing.
Or pl.) Edge, border, extreme part. 5 (also bit of skirt) slang offens. Woman. 6
(in full skirt of beef etc.) Cut of meat from the flank or diaphragm. —v. (often
foll. By around) 1 go or lie along or round the edge of. 2 avoid dealing with (an
issue etc.). [old norse: related to *shirt]
Skit n. Light, usu. Short, piece of satire or burlesque. [perhaps from old norse:
related to *shoot]
Skittish adj. 1 lively, playful. 2 (of a horse etc.) Nervous, inclined to shy.
[perhaps related to *skit]
Skittle n. 1 pin used in skittles. 2 (in pl.; usu. Treated as sing.) Game of trying to
bowl down usu. Nine wooden pins. [origin unknown]
Skive v. (-ving) (often followed by off) slang evade work; play truant. skiver n.
[old norse]
Skivvy —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Derog. Female domestic servant. —v. (-ies, -ied)
work as a skivvy. [origin unknown]
Skua n. Large predatory sea bird. [old norse]
Skull n. 1 bony case of the brain of a vertebrate. 2 bony skeleton of the head. 3
head as the seat of intelligence. [origin unknown]
Skull and crossbones n.pl. Representation of a skull with two crossed thigh-
bones as an emblem of piracy or death.
Skunk n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 black and white striped mammal emitting a powerful
stench when attacked. 2 colloq. Contemptible person. [american indian]
Sky —n. (pl. Skies) (in sing. Or pl.) Atmosphere and outer space as seen from
the earth. —v. (skies, skied) cricket etc. Hit (a ball) high. to the skies without
reserve (praise to the skies). [old norse, = cloud]
Sky blue adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) bright clear blue.
Skylark —n. Lark that sings while soaring. —v. Play tricks, frolic.
Skyward —adv. (also skywards) towards the sky. —adj. Moving skyward.
Slab n. 1 flat thick esp. Rectangular piece of solid material, esp. Stone. 2
mortuary table. [origin unknown]
Slack1 —adj. 1 (of rope etc.) Not taut. 2 inactive or sluggish. 3 negligent,
remiss. 4 (of tide etc.) Neither ebbing nor flowing. —n. 1 slack part of a rope
(haul in the slack). 2 slack period. 3 (in pl.) Informal trousers. —v. 1 loosen
(rope etc.). 2 colloq. Take a rest, be lazy. slack off 1 loosen. 2 (also slack up)
reduce one’s level of activity; reduce speed. slackness n. [old english]
Slacken v. Make or become slack. slacken off = slack off (see *slack1).
Slacker n. Shirker.
Slag —n. 1 refuse left after smelting etc. 2 slang derog. Prostitute; promiscuous
woman. —v. (-gg-) 1 form slag. 2 (often foll. By off) slang insult, slander.
slaggy adj. [low german]
Slalom n. 1 ski-race down a zigzag obstacle course. 2 obstacle race in canoes
etc. [norwegian]
Slam1 —v. (-mm-) 1 shut forcefully and loudly. 2 put down loudly. 3 put or do
suddenly (slam the brakes on; car slammed to a halt). 4 slang criticize severely. 5
slang hit. 6 slang conquer easily. —n. Sound or action of slamming. [probably
scandinavian]
Slander —n. 1 false and damaging utterance about a person. 2 uttering of this. —
v. Utter slander about. slanderous adj. [french esclandre: related to *scandal]
Slang —n. Very informal words, phrases, or meanings, not regarded as standard
and often used by a specific profession, class, etc. —v. Use abusive language
(to). slangy adj. [origin unknown]
Slant —v. 1 slope; lie or (cause to) go obliquely. 2 (often as slanted adj.) Present
(information) in a biased or particular way. —n. 1 slope; oblique position. 2
point of view, esp. A biased one. —adj. Sloping, oblique. on a (or the) slant
aslant. [scandinavian]
Slap —v. (-pp-) 1 strike with the palm or a flat object, or so as to make a similar
noise. 2 lay forcefully (slapped it down). 3 put hastily or carelessly (slap paint
on). 4 (often foll. By down) colloq. Reprimand or snub. —n. 1 blow with the
palm or a flat object. 2 slapping sound. —adv. Suddenly, fully, directly (ran slap
into him). [low german, imitative]
Slash —v. 1 cut or gash with a knife etc. 2 (often foll. By at) deliver or aim
cutting blows. 3 reduce (prices etc.) Drastically. 4 censure vigorously. —n. 1
slashing cut or stroke. 2 printing oblique stroke; solidus. 3 slang act of urinating.
[origin unknown]
Slate —n. 1 (esp. Bluish-grey) metamorphic rock easily split into flat smooth
plates. 2 piece of this as a tile or hist. For writing on. 3 bluish-grey colour of
slate. 4 list of nominees for office etc. —v. (-ting) 1 roof with slates. 2 colloq.
Criticize severely. 3 us make arrangements for (an event etc.). 4 us nominate for
office etc. —adj.
Slaughter —v. 1 kill (animals) for food or skins or because of disease. 2 kill
(people) ruthlessly or on a great scale. 3 colloq. Defeat utterly. —n. Act of
slaughtering. slaughterer n. [old norse: related to *slay]
Slav —n. Member of a group of peoples in central and eastern europe speaking
slavonic languages. —adj. Of the slavs. [latin sclavus, ethnic name]
Slave —n. 1 person who is owned by and has to serve another. 2 drudge, hard
worker. 3 (foll. By of, to) obsessive devotee (slave of fashion). 4 machine, or
part of one, directly controlled by another. —v. (-ving) (often foll. By at, over)
work very hard. [french esclave from latin sclavus *slav (captive)]
Slaver2 —v. 1 dribble. 2 (foll. By over) drool over. —n. 1 dribbling saliva. 2 a
fulsome flattery. B drivel, nonsense. [low german or dutch]
Slavonic —adj. 1 of the group of languages including russian, polish, and czech.
2 of the slavs. —n. Slavonic language-group. [related to *slav]
Slay v. (past slew; past part. Slain) 1 literary = *kill 1. 2 = *kill 4. slayer n. [old
english]
english]
Sleazy adj. (-ier, -iest) squalid, tawdry. sleazily adv. Sleaziness n. [origin
unknown]
Sledge —n. Vehicle on runners for use on snow. —v. (-ging) travel or convey by
sledge. [dutch sleedse]
Sleek —adj. 1 (of hair, skin, etc.) Smooth and glossy. 2 looking well-fed and
comfortable. —v. Make sleek. sleekly adv. Sleekness n. [var. Of *slick]
Sleeping policeman n. Ramp etc. In the road to make traffic slow down.
Sleepy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 drowsy. 2 quiet, inactive (sleepy town). sleepily adv.
Sleepiness n.
Sleet —n. 1 snow and rain falling together. 2 hail or snow melting as it falls. —
v. (prec. By it as subject) sleet falls (it is sleeting). sleety adj. [old english]
Sleigh —n. Sledge, esp. For riding on. —v. Travel on a sleigh. [dutch slee:
related to *sledge]
Slender adj. (-er, -est) 1 a of small girth or breadth. B gracefully thin. 2 relatively
small, scanty, inadequate. [origin unknown]
Sleuth colloq. —n. Detective. —v. Investigate crime etc. [old norse]
Slew1 (also slue) —v. (often foll. By round) turn or swing forcibly to a new
position. —n. Such a turn. [origin unknown]
position. —n. Such a turn. [origin unknown]
Slice —n. 1 thin flat piece or wedge of esp. Food cut off or out. 2 share; part. 3
long-handled kitchen utensil with a broad flat perforated blade. 4 sport stroke
that sends the ball obliquely. —v. (-cing) 1 (often foll. By up) cut into slices. 2
(foll. By off) cut off. 3 (foll. By into, through) cut (as) with a knife. 4 strike (a
ball) with a slice. [french esclice from germanic]
Slide —v. (past and past part. Slid) 1 move along a smooth surface with
continuous contact on the same part of the thing moving. 2 move quietly or
smoothly; glide. 3 glide over ice without skates. 4 (foll. By over) barely touch
upon (a delicate subject etc.). 5 (often foll. By into) move quietly or
unobtrusively. —n. 1 act of sliding. 2 rapid decline. 3 inclined plane down which
children, goods, etc., slide. 4 track made by or for sliding, esp. On ice. 5 part of a
machine or instrument that slides. 6 a mounted transparency viewed with a
projector. B piece of glass holding an object for a microscope. 7 = *hair-slide. let
things slide be negligent; allow deterioration. [old english]
Sliding scale n. Scale of fees, taxes, wages, etc., that varies according to some
other factor.
other factor.
Slim —adj. (slimmer, slimmest) 1 not fat, slender. 2 small, insufficient (slim
chance). —v. (-mm-) (often foll. By down) 1 become slimmer by dieting,
exercise, etc. 2 make smaller (slimmed it down to 40 pages). slimmer n.
Slimming n. & adj. Slimmish adj. [low german or dutch]
Slimy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like, covered with, or full of slime. 2 colloq.
Disgustingly obsequious. sliminess n.
Sling1 —n. 1 strap etc. Used to support or raise a thing. 2 bandage supporting an
injured arm from the neck. 3 strap etc. For firing a stone etc. By hand. —v. (past
and past part. Slung) 1 colloq. Throw. 2 suspend with a sling. sling one’s hook
slang go away. [old norse or low german or dutch]
Sling2 n. Sweetened drink of spirits (esp. Gin) and water. [origin unknown]
Slink v. (past and past part. Slunk) (often foll. By off, away, by) move in a
stealthy or guilty manner. [old english]
Slip2 n. 1 small piece of paper, esp. For writing on. 2 piece cut from a plant for
grafting or planting. slip of a small and slim (slip of a girl). [low german or
dutch]
Slip3 n. Clay and water mixture for decorating earthenware. [old english, =
slime]
Slip of the pen n. (also slip of the tongue) small written (or spoken) mistake.
Slip-on —attrib. Adj. Easily slipped on and off. —n. Slip-on shoe or garment.
Slippery adj. 1 difficult to grasp, stand on, etc. Because smooth or wet. 2
unreliable, unscrupulous. slipperiness n. [old english]
Slippy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Slippery. look (or be) slippy make haste.
Slit —n. Straight narrow incision or opening. —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Slit) 1
make a slit in. 2 cut into strips. [old english]
Slither —v. Slide unsteadily. —n. Act of slithering. slithery adj. [var. Of slidder:
related to *slide]
Sliver —n. Long thin piece cut or split off. —v. 1 break off as a sliver. 2 break
or form into slivers. [old english]
Sloane n. (in full sloane ranger) slang fashionable and conventional upper-class
young person. sloaney adj. [sloane square in london, and lone ranger, cowboy
hero]
Slob n. Colloq. Derog. Lazy, untidy, or fat person. [irish slab mud]
Slobber —v. 1 dribble. 2 (foll. By over) drool over. —n. Dribbling saliver.
slobbery adj. [dutch]
slobbery adj. [dutch]
Slog —v. (-gg-) 1 hit hard and usu. Wildly. 2 work or walk doggedly. —n. 1
hard random hit. 2 a hard steady work or walk. B spell of this. [origin unknown]
Slop —v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. By over) spill over the edge of a vessel. 2 wet (the
floor etc.) By slopping. —n. 1 liquid spilled or splashed. 2 sloppy language. 3 (in
pl.) Dirty waste water or wine etc. From a kitchen, bedroom, or prison vessels. 4
(in sing. Or pl.) Unappetizing weak liquid food. slop about move about in a
slovenly manner. Slop out carry slops out (in prison etc.). [old english]
Sloppy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 wet, watery, too liquid. 2 careless, untidy. 3 foolishly
sentimental. sloppily adv. Sloppiness n.
Slosh —v. 1 (often foll. By about) splash or flounder. 2 slang hit, esp. Heavily. 3
Slosh —v. 1 (often foll. By about) splash or flounder. 2 slang hit, esp. Heavily. 3
colloq. A pour (liquid) clumsily. B pour liquid on. —n. 1 slush. 2 act or sound of
splashing. 3 slang heavy blow. [var. Of *slush]
Slot —n. 1 slit in a machine etc. For a thing, esp. A coin, to be inserted. 2 slit,
groove, etc. For a thing. 3 allotted place in a schedule, esp. In broadcasting. —v.
(-tt-) 1 (often foll. By in, into) place or be placed (as if) into a slot. 2 provide
with slots. [french esclot hollow of breast]
Slouch —v. Stand, move, or sit in a drooping fashion. —n. 1 slouching posture
or movement. 2 slang incompetent or slovenly worker etc. [origin unknown]
Slough2 —n. Part that an animal casts or moults, esp. A snake’s cast skin. —v.
(often foll. By off) cast or drop off as a slough. [origin unknown]
Slow —adj. 1 a taking a relatively long time to do a thing (also foll. By of: slow
of speech). B acting, moving, or done without speed, not quick. 2 not conducive
to speed (slow route). 3 (of a clock etc.) Showing a time earlier than is correct. 4
(of a person) not understanding or learning readily. 5 dull, tedious. 6 slack,
sluggish (business is slow). 7 (of a fire or oven) giving little heat. 8 photog. (of a
film) needing long exposure. 9 reluctant; not hasty (slow to anger). —adv.
Slowly (also in comb.: slow-moving traffic). —v. (usu. Foll. By down, up) 1
reduce one’s speed or the speed of (a vehicle etc.). 2 reduce one’s pace of life.
slowish adj. Slowly adv. Slowness n. [old english]
Slow motion n. 1 speed of a film at which actions etc. Appear much slower than
usual. 2 simulation of this in real action.
Sludge n. 1 thick greasy mud or sediment. 2 sewage. sludgy adj. [cf. *slush]
Slug2 us —v. (-gg-) hit hard. —n. Hard blow. slug it out fight it out. [origin
unknown]
Sluice —n. 1 (also sluice-gate, sluice-valve) sliding gate or other contrivance for
Sluice —n. 1 (also sluice-gate, sluice-valve) sliding gate or other contrivance for
regulating the volume or flow of water. 2 water so regulated. 3 (sluice-way)
artificial water-channel, esp. For washing ore. 4 place for rinsing. 5 act of
rinsing. —v. (-cing) 1 provide or wash with a sluice or sluices. 2 rinse, esp. With
running water. 3 (foll. By out, away) wash out or away with a flow of water. 4
(of water) rush out (as if) from a sluice. [french escluse]
Slum —n. 1 house unfit for human habitation. 2 (often in pl.) Overcrowded and
squalid district in a city. —v. (-mm-) visit slums, esp. Out of curiosity. slum it
colloq. Put up with conditions less comfortable than usual. slummy adj.
[originally cant]
Slump —n. Sudden severe or prolonged fall in prices and trade, usu. Bringing
widespread unemployment. —v. 1 undergo a slump. 2 sit or fall heavily or
limply. [imitative]
Slur —v. (-rr-) 1 pronounce indistinctly with sounds running into one another. 2
mus. Perform (notes) legato. 3 archaic or us put a slur on (a person or a person’s
character). 4 (usu. Foll. By over) pass over (a fact, fault, etc.) Lightly. —n. 1
imputation of wrongdoing. 2 act of slurring. 3 mus. Curved line joining notes to
be slurred. [origin unknown]
Slurp colloq. —v. Eat or esp. Drink noisily. —n. Sound of this. [dutch]
Slurry n. Thin semi-liquid cement, mud, manure, etc. [related to dial. Slur thin
mud]
Slush n. 1 thawing muddy snow. 2 silly sentimentality. slushy adj. (-ier, -iest).
[origin unknown]
Sm symb. Samarium.
Smack1 —n. 1 sharp slap or blow. 2 hard hit at cricket etc. 3 loud kiss. 4 loud
sharp sound. —v. 1 slap. 2 part (one’s lips) noisily in anticipation of food. 3
move, hit, etc., with a smack. —adv. Colloq. 1 with a smack. 2 suddenly;
directly; violently. 3 exactly (smack in the centre). a smack in the eye (or face)
colloq. Rebuff; setback. [imitative]
Smack2 (foll. By of) —v. 1 have a flavour of; taste of. 2 suggest (smacks of
nepotism). —n. 1 flavour. 2 barely discernible quality. [old english]
Small —adj. 1 not large or big. 2 not great in importance, amount, number,
power, etc. 3 not much; little (paid small attention). 4 insignificant (from small
beginnings). 5 of small particles (small shot). 6 on a small scale (small farmer). 7
poor or humble. 8 mean; ungenerous. 9 young (small child). —n. 1 slenderest
part of a thing, esp. Of the back. 2 (in pl.) Colloq. Underwear, esp. As laundry.
—adv. Into small pieces (chop it small). feel (or look) small be humiliated or
ashamed. smallish adj. Smallness n. [old english]
Smallpox n. Hist. Acute contagious disease with fever and pustules, usu.
Leaving scars.
Smarm —v. Colloq. 1 (often foll. By down) smooth, plaster flat (hair etc.). 2 be
ingratiating. —n. Colloq. Obsequiousness. [dial.]
Smash —v. 1 (often foll. By up) a break into pieces; shatter. B bring or come to
sudden destruction, defeat, or disaster. 2 (foll. By into, through) move with great
force. 3 (foll. By in) break with a crushing blow. 4 hit (a ball etc.) With great
force, esp. Downwards. —n. 1 act of smashing, collision. 2 sound of this. 3 (in
full smash hit) very successful play, song, performer, etc. —adv. With a smash.
[imitative]
Smear —v. 1 daub or mark with grease etc. 2 smudge. 3 defame. —n. 1 act of
smearing. 2 med. A material smeared on a microscopic slide etc. For
examination. B specimen of this. smeary adj. [old english]
Smelt1 v. 1 extract metal from (ore) by melting. 2 extract (metal) in this way.
smelter n. [low german or dutch smelten]
Smelt3 n. (pl. Same or -s) small edible green and silver fish. [old english]
Smidgen n. (also smidgin) colloq. Small bit or amount. [perhaps from smitch in
the same sense]
Smile —v. (-ling) 1 have or assume a happy, kind, or amused expression, with
the corners of the mouth turned up. 2 express by smiling (smiled a welcome). 3
give (a smile) of a specified kind (smiled a sardonic smile). 4 (foll. By on, upon)
favour (fortune smiled on me). —n. 1 act of smiling. 2 smiling expression or
aspect. [perhaps from scandinavian]
Smirk —n. Conceited or silly smile. —v. Give a smirk. [old english]
Smite v. (-ting; past smote; past part. Smitten) 1 archaic or literary a hit. B
chastise; defeat. 2 (in passive) affect strongly; seize (smitten with regret; smitten
by her beauty). [old english]
Smock —n. 1 loose shirtlike garment often ornamented with smocking. 2 loose
overall. —v. Adorn with smocking. [old english]
Smoky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 emitting, filled with, or obscured by, smoke. 2 stained
with or coloured like smoke. 3 having the flavour of smoked food. smokiness n.
Smolder (brit. Smoulder) —v. 1 burn slowly without flame or internally. 2 (of
emotions) be fierce but suppressed. 3 (of a person) show silent emotion. —n.
Smouldering. [origin unknown]
Smooch colloq. —n. 1 period of slow close dancing. 2 period of kissing and
caressing. —v. Engage in a smooch. smoochy adj. [imitative]
Smooth —adj. 1 having an even surface; free from projections, dents, and
roughness. 2 that can be traversed without check. 3 (of the sea etc.) Calm, flat. 4
(of a journey etc.) Easy. 5 not harsh in sound or taste. 6 suave, conciliatory;
slick. 7 not jerky. —v. 1 (often foll. By out, down) make or become smooth. 2
(often foll. By out, down, over, away) reduce or get rid of (differences, faults,
difficulties, etc.) In fact or appearance. —n. Smoothing touch or stroke. —adv.
Smoothly. smoothly adv. Smoothness n. [old english]
Smoulder (us smolder) —v. 1 burn slowly without flame or internally. 2 (of
emotions) be fierce but suppressed. 3 (of a person) show silent emotion. —n.
Smouldering. [origin unknown]
Smudge —n. Blurred or smeared line, mark, blot, etc. —v. (-ging) 1 make a
smudge on or of. 2 become smeared or blurred. smudgy adj. [origin unknown]
Smuggle v. (-ling) 1 (also absol.) Import or export illegally, esp. Without paying
duties. 2 (foll. By in, out) convey secretly. smuggler n. Smuggling n. [low
german]
Smut —n. 1 small flake of soot etc. 2 spot or smudge made by this. 3 obscene
talk, pictures, or stories. 4 fungous disease of cereals. —v. (-tt-) mark with
smuts. smutty adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin unknown]
Snack n. 1 light, casual, or hurried meal. 2 small amount of food eaten between
meals. [dutch]
Snaffle —n. (in full snaffle-bit) simple bridle-bit without a curb. —v. (-ling)
colloq. Steal; seize. [low german or dutch perhaps from snavel beak]
Snafu slang —adj. In utter confusion. —n. This state. [acronym of ‘situation
normal: all fouled (or fucked) up’]
Snake —n. 1 long limbless reptile. 2 (also snake in the grass) traitor; secret
enemy. —v. (-king) move or twist like a snake. [old english]
Snakes and ladders n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Board-game with counters
moved up ‘ladders’ and down ‘snakes’.
Snap —v. (-pp-) 1 break suddenly or with a cracking sound. 2 (cause to) emit a
sudden sharp crack. 3 open or close with a snapping sound. 4 speak or say
irritably. 5 (often foll. By at) make a sudden audible bite. 6 move quickly (snap
into action). 7 photograph. —n. 1 act or sound of snapping. 2 crisp biscuit
(brandy snap). 3 snapshot. 4 (in full cold snap) sudden brief spell of cold
(brandy snap). 3 snapshot. 4 (in full cold snap) sudden brief spell of cold
weather. 5 a card-game in which players call ‘snap’ when two similar cards are
exposed. B (as int.) On noticing an (often unexpected) similarity. 6 vigour,
liveliness. —adv. With a snap (heard it go snap). —adj. Done without
forethought (snap decision). snap out of slang get rid of (a mood, etc.) By a
sudden effort. Snap up accept (an offer etc.) Quickly or eagerly. [low german or
dutch snappen seize]
Snap-fastener n. = *press-stud.
Snappy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 brisk, lively. 2 neat and elegant (snappy
dresser). 3 snappish. make it snappy be quick. snappily adv.
Snare —n. 1 trap, esp. With a noose, for birds or animals. 2 trap, trick, or
temptation. 3 (in sing. Or pl.) Twisted strings of gut, hide, or wire stretched
across the lower head of a side-drum to produce a rattle. 4 (in full snare drum)
drum fitted with snares. —v. (-ring) catch in a snare; trap. [old norse]
Snarl1 —v. 1 growl with bared teeth. 2 speak, say, or express angrily. —n. Act
or sound of snarling. [snar from low german]
Snarl2 —v. (often foll. By up) twist; entangle; hamper the movement of (traffic
etc.); become entangled or congested. —n. Knot, tangle. [from *snare]
Snatch —v. 1 (often foll. By away, from) seize or remove quickly, eagerly, or
unexpectedly. 2 a steal (a handbag etc.) By grabbing. B slang kidnap. 3 secure
with difficulty. 4 (foll. By at) a try to seize. B take (an offer etc.) Eagerly. —n. 1
act of snatching. 2 fragment of a song or talk etc. 3 us slang kidnapping. 4 short
spell of activity etc. [related to *snack]
Snazzy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang smart, stylish, showy. snazzily adv. Snazziness n.
[origin unknown]
Sneak —v. 1 (foll. By in, out, past, away, etc.) Go or convey furtively. 2 slang
steal unobserved. 3 slang tell tales; turn informer. 4 (as sneaking adj.) A furtive
(sneaking affection). B persistent and puzzling (sneaking feeling). —n. 1 mean-
spirited underhand person. 2 slang tell-tale; informer. —adj. Acting or done
without warning; secret. sneaky adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin uncertain]
Sneer —n. Contemptuous smile or remark. —v. 1 (often foll. By at) smile or
Sneer —n. Contemptuous smile or remark. —v. 1 (often foll. By at) smile or
speak derisively. 2 say with a sneer. sneering adj. Sneeringly adv. [origin
unknown]
Sneeze —n. Sudden loud involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth
caused by irritation of the nostrils. —v. (-zing) make a sneeze. not to be sneezed
at colloq. Worth having or considering. [old english]
Snick —v. 1 make a small notch or incision in. 2 cricket deflect (the ball)
slightly with the bat. —n. 1 small notch or cut. 2 cricket slight deflection of the
ball. [snickersnee long knife, ultimately from dutch]
Sniff —v. 1 inhale air audibly through the nose. 2 (often foll. By up) draw in
through the nose. 3 smell the scent of by sniffing. —n. 1 act or sound of sniffing.
2 amount of air etc. Sniffed up. sniff at show contempt for. Sniff out = smell out.
[imitative]
Sniffer n. Person who sniffs, esp. A drug etc. (often in comb.: glue-sniffer).
Sniffle —v. (-ling) sniff slightly or repeatedly. —n. 1 act of sniffling. 2 (in sing.
Sniffle —v. (-ling) sniff slightly or repeatedly. —n. 1 act of sniffling. 2 (in sing.
Or pl.) Cold in the head causing sniffling. [imitative: cf. *snivel]
Snip —v. (-pp-) (also absol.) Cut with scissors etc., esp. In small quick strokes.
—n. 1 act of snipping. 2 piece snipped off. 3 slang a something easily done. B
bargain. [low german or dutch snippen]
Snipe —n. (pl. Same or -s) wading bird with a long straight bill. —v. (-ping) 1
fire shots from hiding, usu. At long range. 2 (often foll. By at) make a sly critical
attack. sniper n. (in sense 1 of v.). [probably scandinavian]
Snippet n. 1 small piece cut off. 2 (usu. In pl.) A scrap of information etc. B
short extract from a book etc.
Snitch slang —v. 1 steal. 2 (often foll. By on) inform on a person. —n. Informer.
[origin unknown]
Snivel —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 weep with sniffling. 2 run at the nose; sniffle. 3 show
weak or tearful sentiment. —n. Act of snivelling. [old english]
Snob n. Person who despises those inferior in social position, wealth, intellect,
taste, etc. (intellectual snob). snobbery n. Snobbish adj. Snobby adj. (-ier, -iest).
[origin unknown]
Snog slang —v. (-gg-) engage in kissing and caressing. —n. Period of this.
[origin unknown]
Snood n. Ornamental hairnet, worn usu. At the back of the head. [old english]
Snook n. Slang contemptuous gesture with the thumb to the nose and the fingers
spread. cock a snook (often foll. By at) 1 make this gesture. 2 register one’s
contempt. [origin unknown]
Snoop colloq. —v. 1 pry into another’s affairs. 2 (often foll. By about, around)
investigate transgressions of rules, the law, etc. —n. Act of snooping. snooper n.
Snoopy adj. [dutch]
Snooty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Supercilious; conceited; snobbish. snootily adv.
[origin unknown]
Snooze colloq. —n. Short sleep, nap. —v. (-zing) take a snooze. [origin
unknown]
unknown]
Snore —n. Snorting or grunting sound of breathing during sleep. —v. (-ring)
make this sound. [imitative]
Snort —n. 1 explosive sound made esp. By horses by the sudden forcing of
breath through the nose. 2 similar human sound showing contempt, incredulity,
etc. 3 colloq. Small drink of liquor. 4 slang inhaled dose of powdered cocaine
etc. —v. 1 make a snort. 2 (also absol.) Slang inhale (esp. Cocaine). 3 express or
utter with a snort. [imitative]
Snot n. Slang nasal mucus. [probably low german or dutch: related to *snout]
Snotty adj. (-ier, -iest) slang 1 running or covered with nasal mucus. 2 snooty. 3
mean, contemptible. snottily adv. Snottiness n.
Snow —n. 1 frozen atmospheric vapour falling to earth in light white flakes. 2
fall or layer of this. 3 thing resembling snow in whiteness or texture etc. 4 slang
cocaine. —v. 1 (prec. By it as subject) snow falls (it is snowing; if it snows). 2
(foll. By in, over, up, etc.) Confine or block with snow. be snowed under be
overwhelmed, esp. With work. [old english]
Snowball —n. Ball of compressed snow for throwing in play. —v. 1 throw or
pelt with snowballs. 2 increase rapidly.
Snowmobile n. Motor vehicle, esp. With runners or caterpillar tracks, for travel
over snow.
Snow white adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) pure white.
Snowy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like snow. 2 (of the weather etc.) With much
snow.
Snub —v. (-bb-) rebuff or humiliate with sharp words or coldness. —n. Act of
snubbing. —adj. Short and blunt in shape. [old norse, = chide]
Snuff1 —n. Charred part of a candle-wick. —v. Trim the snuff from (a candle).
snuff it slang die. Snuff out 1 extinguish (a candle flame). 2 put an end to (hopes
etc.). [origin unknown]
Snuff2 —n. Powdered tobacco or medicine taken by sniffing. —v. Take snuff.
[dutch]
Snuffle —v. (-ling) 1 make sniffing sounds. 2 speak or say nasally or whiningly.
3 breathe noisily, esp. With a blocked nose. —n. Snuffling sound or tone. snuffly
adj. [low german or dutch snuffelen]
Soak —v. 1 make or become thoroughly wet through saturation. 2 (of rain etc.)
Drench. 3 (foll. By in, up) absorb (liquid, knowledge, etc.). 4 refl. (often foll. By
in) steep (oneself) in a subject etc. 5 (foll. By in, into, through) (of liquid) go or
penetrate by saturation. 6 colloq. Extort money from. 7 colloq. Drink heavily. —
n. 1 act of soaking; prolonged spell in a bath. 2 colloq. Hard drinker. [old
english]
Soakaway n. Pit into which liquids may flow and then percolate slowly into the
subsoil.
Soap —n. 1 cleansing agent yielding lather when rubbed in water. 2 colloq. =
*soap opera. —v. Apply soap to. [old english]
Soapbox n. Makeshift stand for a speaker in the street etc.
Soap flakes n.pl. Thin flakes of soap for washing clothes etc.
Soap opera n. Broadcast drama serial with domestic themes (orig. Sponsored in
the us by soap manufacturers).
Soap powder n. Powdered soap, esp. With additives, for washing clothes etc.
Soapstone n. Steatite.
Soapwort n. Plant with pink or white flowers, and leaves yielding a soapy
substance.
Soapy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like soap. 2 containing or smeared with soap. 3
unctuous, flattering. soapily adv. Soapiness n.
Soar v. 1 fly or rise high. 2 reach a high level or standard. 3 fly without flapping
the wings or using power. [french essorer]
Sob —v. (-bb-) 1 inhale convulsively, usu. With weeping. 2 utter with sobs. —n.
Act or sound of sobbing. [imitative]
Act or sound of sobbing. [imitative]
Sober —adj. (soberer, soberest) 1 not drunk. 2 not given to drink. 3 moderate,
tranquil, sedate, serious. 4 not exaggerated. 5 (of a colour etc.) Quiet; dull. —v.
(often foll. By down, up) make or become sober. soberly adv. [french from latin]
Social contract n. Agreement between the state and population for mutual
advantage.
Socialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 mix socially. 2 make social. 3 organize
on socialistic principles. socialization n.
Social science n. The study of society and social relationships. social scientist n.
Social services n.pl. Welfare services provided by the state, esp. Education,
health, and housing.
Sock1 n. 1 knitted covering for the foot and lower leg. 2 insole. pull one’s socks
up colloq. Make an effort to improve. Put a sock in it slang be quiet. [old english
socc from greek sukkhos slipper]
Sock2 colloq. —v. Hit hard. —n. Hard blow. sock it to attack or address (a
person or people) vigorously. [origin unknown]
Socket n. Hollow for something to fit into etc., esp. A device receiving an
electric plug, light-bulb, etc. [anglo-french]
Sod1 n. 1 turf, piece of turf. 2 surface of the ground. [low german or dutch]
Sod2 coarse slang —n. 1 unpleasant or awkward person or thing. 2 fellow (lucky
sod). —v. (-dd-) 1 damn (sod them!). 2 (as sodding adj.) Damned. sod off go
away. [abbreviation of *sodomite]
Soda fountain n. 1 device supplying soda water. 2 shop or counter with this.
Sodden adj. 1 saturated; soaked through. 2 stupid or dull etc. With drunkenness.
[archaic past part. Of *seethe]
Sodium hydroxide n. Strongly alkaline compound used in soap etc.; caustic soda.
Sodium lamp n. Lamp using sodium vapour and giving a yellow light.
Soever adv. Literary of any kind; to any extent (how great soever it may be).
Sofa n. Long upholstered seat with a back and arms. [arabic shuffa]
Soft —adj. 1 not hard; easily cut or dented; malleable. 2 (of cloth etc.) Smooth;
fine; not rough. 3 (of wind etc.) Mild, gentle. 4 (of water) low in mineral salts
and lathering easily. 5 (of light or colour etc.) Not brilliant or glaring. 6 (of
sound) gentle, not loud. 7 (of a consonant) sibilant (as c in ice, s in pleasure). 8
(of an outline etc.) Vague, blurred. 9 gentle, conciliatory. 10 compassionate,
sympathetic. 11 feeble, halfwitted, silly, sentimental. 12 colloq. (of a job etc.)
Easy. 13 (of drugs) not highly addictive. 14 (also soft-core) (of pornography) not
highly obscene. 15 (of currency) likely to fall in value; not readily exchangeable
into other currencies. —adv. Softly. be soft on colloq. 1 be lenient towards. 2 be
infatuated with. Have a soft spot for be fond of. softish adj. Softly adv. Softness
n. [old english]
Soft-centred adj. 1 (of a sweet) having a soft centre. 2 soft-hearted; sentimental.
Soften v. 1 make or become soft or softer. 2 (often foll. By up) a make weaker
by preliminary attack. B make (a person) more receptive to persuasion. softener
n.
Softie n. (also softy) (pl. -ies) colloq. Weak, silly, or soft-hearted person.
Softly-softly adj. (also softly, softly) (of strategy) cautious and cunning.
Soft pedal —n. Piano pedal that softens the tone. —v. (soft-pedal) (-ll-; us -l-)
refrain from emphasizing; be restrained.
Soft soap —n. Colloq. Persuasive flattery. —v. (soft-soap) colloq. Persuade with
flattery.
Soggy adj. (-ier, -iest) sodden, saturated; too moist (soggy bread). sogginess n.
[dial. Sog marsh]
Soh n. (also so) mus. Fifth note of a major scale. [latin solve, word arbitrarily
taken]
Soil2 —v. 1 make dirty; smear or stain. 2 defile; discredit. —n. 1 dirty mark. 2
filth; refuse. [french soill(i)er]
Solan n. (in full solan goose) large gooselike gannet. [old norse]
Solar battery n. (also solar cell) device converting solar radiation into electricity.
Solarium n. (pl. -ria) room with sun-lamps or a glass roof etc. [latin: related to
*solar]
Solar panel n. Panel that absorbs the sun’s rays as an energy source.
Solar system n. The sun and the celestial bodies whose motion it governs.
Solar year n. Time taken for the earth to travel once round the sun.
Sola topi n. Sun-helmet made from the pith of the sola plant.
Sold past and past part. Of *sell. —adj. (foll. By on) colloq. Enthusiastic about.
Solder —n. Fusible alloy used to join metals or wires etc. —v. Join with solder.
[latin: related to *solid]
Soldier —n. 1 member of an army. 2 (in full common soldier) private or nco in
an army. 3 colloq. Finger of bread for dipping into egg. —v. Serve as a soldier.
soldier on colloq. Persevere doggedly. soldierly adj. [french soulde, originally =
soldier’s pay]
Sole1 —n. 1 undersurface of the foot. 2 part of a shoe, sock, etc., under the foot,
esp. Other than the heel. 3 lower surface or base of a plough, golf-club head, etc.
—v. (-ling) provide (a shoe etc.) With a sole. -soled adj. (in comb.). [latin solea
sandal]
Sole2 n. (pl. Same or -s) flat-fish used as food. [latin solea sandal, which the
Sole2 n. (pl. Same or -s) flat-fish used as food. [latin solea sandal, which the
shape of fish resembles]
Sole3 adj. One and only; single, exclusive. [french from latin solus]
Solely adv. 1 alone (solely responsible). 2 only (did it solely out of duty).
Sol-fa n. System of syllables representing musical notes. [sol var. Of soh, fa]
Soli pl. Of *solo.
Solid —adj. (-der, -dest) 1 firm and stable in shape; not liquid or fluid. 2 of such
material throughout, not hollow. 3 of the same substance throughout (solid
silver). 4 sturdily built; not flimsy or slender. 5 a three-dimensional. B of solids
(solid geometry). 6 a sound, reliable (solid arguments). B dependable (solid
friend). 7 sound but unexciting (solid piece of work). 8 financially sound. 9
uninterrupted (four solid hours). 10 unanimous, undivided. 11 (of printing)
without spaces. —n. 1 solid substance or body. 2 (in pl.) Solid food. 3 geom.
Three-dimensional body or magnitude. —adv. Solidly (jammed solid). solidly
adv. Solidness n. [latin solidus]
Solipsism n. Philosophical theory that the self is all that exists or can be known.
solipsist n. [latin solus alone, ipse self]
Solitaire n. 1 jewel set by itself. 2 ring etc. With this. 3 game for one player in
which pegs etc. Are removed from a board by jumping others over them. 4 us =
patience 3. [french: see solitary]
Solitary confinement n. Isolation in a separate prison cell.
Solo —n. (pl. -s) 1 (pl. -s or soli) musical piece or passage, or a dance,
performed by one person. 2 thing done by one person, esp. An unaccompanied
flight. 3 (in full solo whist) type of whist in which one player may oppose the
others. —v. (-es, -ed) perform a solo. —adv. Unaccompanied, alone. [italian
from latin: related to *sole3]
Solomon’s seal n. Flowering plant with drooping green and white flowers.
[solomon, king of israel]
Solstice n. Either of the times when the sun is furthest from the equator. [latin
solstitium ‘the sun standing still’]
Soluble adj. 1 that can be dissolved, esp. In water. 2 solvable. solubility n. [latin
solvo solut-release]
Solvent —adj. 1 able to pay one’s debts; not in debt. 2 able to dissolve or form a
solution with something. —n. Solvent liquid etc. solvency n. (in sense 2 of adj.).
Somatic adj. Of the body, not of the mind. somatically adv. [greek soma -mat-
body]
Somber adj. (also brit. Sombre) dark, gloomy, dismal. sombrely adv.
Sombreness n. [latin sub ombra under shade]
Sombre adj. (also us somber) dark, gloomy, dismal. sombrely adv. Sombreness
n. [latin sub ombra under shade]
Sombrero n. (pl. -s) broad-brimmed hat worn esp. In latin america. [spanish:
related to *sombre]
-some2 suffix forming nouns from numerals, meaning ‘a group of’ (foursome).
[old english]
Somehow adv. 1 for some reason or other (somehow i don’t trust him). 2 in
some way; by some means.
Somersault —n. Leap or roll with the body turning through a circle. —v.
Perform this. [french sobre above, saut jump]
Sonic bang n. (also sonic boom) noise made when an aircraft passes the speed of
sound.
Sonnet n. Poem of 14 lines with a fixed rhyme-scheme and, in english, usu. Ten
syllables per line. [french sonnet or italian sonetto]
Sonorous adj. 1 having a loud, full, or deep sound; resonant. 2 (of language,
style, etc.) Imposing. sonority n. [latin]
Soon adv. 1 in a short time (shall soon know). 2 relatively early (must you go so
soon?). 3 readily or willingly (would sooner go; would as soon stay). as (or so)
soon as at the moment that; not later than; as early as (came as soon as i could).
soon as at the moment that; not later than; as early as (came as soon as i could).
Sooner or later at some future time; eventually. soonish adv. [old english]
Soothe v. (-thing) 1 calm (a person, feelings, etc). 2 soften or mitigate (pain etc.).
[old english]
Sop —n. 1 thing given or done to pacify or bribe. 2 piece of bread etc. Dipped in
gravy etc. —v. (-pp-) 1 (as sopping adj.) Drenched (came home sopping;
sopping wet clothes). 2 (foll. By up) soak or mop up. [old english]
Sophism n. False argument, esp. One intended to deceive. [greek sophos wise]
Soppy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Mawkishly sentimental; silly; infatuated. soppily
adv. Soppiness n. [from *sop]
Soprano n. (pl. -s) 1 a highest singing-voice. B female or boy singer with this
voice. 2 instrument of a high or the highest pitch in its family. [italian sopra
above]
Sore —adj. 1 (of a part of the body) painful. 2 suffering pain. 3 aggrieved,
vexed. 4 archaic grievous or severe (in sore need). —n. 1 inflamed place on the
skin or flesh. 2 source of distress or annoyance. —adv. Archaic grievously,
severely. soreness n. [old english]
Sorry —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 pained, regretful, penitent (sorry about the mess). 2
(foll. By for) feeling pity or sympathy for. 3 (attrib.) Wretched (a sorry sight). —
int. Expression of apology. sorry for oneself dejected. [old english: related to
*sore]
Sort —n. 1 group of similar things etc.; class or kind. 2 colloq. Person of a
specified kind (a good sort). —v. (often foll. By out, over) arrange
systematically; put in order. of a sort (or of sorts) colloq. Barely deserving the
name (a holiday of sorts). Out of sorts slightly unwell; in low spirits. Sort of
colloq. As it were; to some extent. Sort out 1 separate into sorts. 2 select from a
varied group. 3 disentangle or put into order. 4 solve. 5 colloq. Deal with or
reprimand. [latin sors sort-lot]
Sortie —n. 1 sally, esp. From a besieged garrison. 2 operational military flight.
—v. (-ties, -tied, -tieing) make a sortie. [french]
Sostenuto mus. —adv. & adj. In a sustained or prolonged manner. —n. (pl. -s)
passage to be played in this way. [italian]
Sot n. Habitual drunkard. sottish adj. [old english]
Sou n. 1 colloq. Very small sum of money. 2 hist. Former french coin of low
value. [french from latin: related to *solid]
Soufflé n. Light spongy sweet or savoury dish usu. Made with stiffly beaten egg-
whites and gelatine. [french, = blown]
Sough —v. Moan or whisper like the wind in trees etc. —n. This sound. [old
english]
Soul music n. Black american music with rhythm and blues, gospel, and rock
elements.
Soul-searching n. Introspection.
Sound1 —n. 1 sensation caused in the ear by the vibration of the surrounding air
or other medium. 2 vibrations causing this sensation. 3 what is or may be heard.
4 idea or impression conveyed by words (don’t like the sound of that). 5 mere
words. —v. 1 (cause to) emit sound. 2 utter, pronounce (sound a warning note).
3 convey an impression when heard (sounds worried). 4 give an audible signal
for (an alarm etc.). 5 test (the lungs etc.) By the sound produced. sound off talk
loudly or express one’s opinions forcefully. soundless adj. [latin sonus]
Sound3 v. 1 test the depth or quality of the bottom of (the sea or a river etc.). 2
(often foll. By out) inquire (esp. Discreetly) into the opinions or feelings of (a
person). [french sonder from latin sub unda under the wave]
Sound barrier n. High resistance of air to objects moving at speeds near that of
sound.
Sound bite n. Short pithy extract from an interview, speech, etc., as part of a
news etc. Broadcast.
Sound effect n. Sound other than speech or music made artificially for a film,
broadcast, etc.
Sounding n. 1 measurement of the depth of water. 2 (in pl.) Region close enough
to the shore for sounding. 3 (in pl.) Cautious investigation.
Sound wave n. Wave of compression and rarefaction, by which sound is
transmitted in the air etc.
Soup —n. Liquid food made by boiling meat, fish, or vegetables. —v. (usu. Foll.
By up) colloq. 1 increase the power of (an engine). 2 enliven (a souped-up
version of the original). in the soup colloq. In difficulties. [french]
Sour —adj. 1 acid in taste or smell, esp. Because unripe or fermented. 2 morose;
bitter. 3 (of a thing) unpleasant; distasteful. 4 (of the soil) dank. —v. Make or
become sour. go (or turn) sour 1 turn out badly. 2 lose one’s keenness. sourly
adv. Sourness n. [old english]
Souse —v. (-sing) 1 immerse in pickle or other liquid. 2 (as soused adj.) Colloq.
Drunk. 3 (usu. Foll. By in) soak (a thing) in liquid. —n. 1 a pickle made with
salt. B us food in pickle. 2 plunge or drench in water. [french sous]
Soutane n. Cassock worn by a roman catholic priest. [french from italian sotto
under]
South —n. 1 point of the horizon 90° clockwise from east. 2 compass point
corresponding to this. 3 direction in which this lies. 4 (usu. The south) part of the
world, a country, or a town to the south. —adj. 1 towards, at, near, or facing the
south. 2 from the south (south wind). —adv. 1 towards, at, or near the south. 2
(foll. By of) further south than. to the south (often foll. By of) in a southerly
direction. [old english]
South african —adj. Of the republic of south africa. —n. 1 native or national of
south africa. 2 person of south african descent.
Southeast —n. 1 point of the horizon midway between south and east. 2
direction in which this lies. —adj. Of, towards, or coming from the south-east.
—adv. Towards, at, or near the south-east.
Southerly —adj. & adv. 1 in a southern position or direction. 2 (of a wind) from
the south. —n. (pl. -ies) such a wind.
Southward —adj. & adv. (also southwards) towards the south. —n. Southward
direction or region.
Southwest —n. 1 point of the horizon midway between south and west. 2
direction in which this lies. —adj. Of, towards, or coming from the southwest.
—adv. Towards, at, or near the southwest.
Sou’wester n. 1 waterproof hat with a broad flap covering the neck. 2 southwest
wind. [from *southwester]
Sovereign —n. 1 supreme ruler, esp. A monarch. 2 hist. British gold coin
nominally worth £1. —adj. 1 supreme (sovereign power). 2 self-governing
(sovereign state). 3 royal (our sovereign lord). 4 excellent; effective (sovereign
remedy). 5 unmitigated (sovereign contempt). [french so(u)verain: -g-by
association with reign]
Soviet hist. —adj. Of the ussr or its people. —n. 1 citizen of the ussr. 2 (soviet)
elected council in the ussr. 3 revolutionary council of workers, peasants, etc.
[russian]
Sow1 v. (past sowed; past part. Sown or sowed) 1 (also absol.) A scatter (seed)
on or in the earth. B (often foll. By with) plant with seed. 2 initiate (sow hatred).
on or in the earth. B (often foll. By with) plant with seed. 2 initiate (sow hatred).
sow one’s wild oats indulge in youthful excess or promiscuity. [old english]
Soy n. 1 (in full soy sauce) sauce from pickled soya beans. 2 (in full soy bean) =
*soya 1. [japanese]
Soya n. 1 (in full soya bean) a leguminous plant yielding edible oil and flour and
used to replace animal protein. B seed of this. 2 (in full soya sauce) = *soy 1.
[malay: related to *soy]
Sozzled adj. Colloq. Very drunk. [dial. Sozzle mix sloppily, imitative]
Space —n. 1 a continuous expanse in which things exist and move. B amount of
this taken by a thing or available. 2 interval between points or objects. 3 empty
area (make a space). 4 a outdoor urban recreation area (open space). B large
unoccupied region (wide open spaces). 5 = *outer space. 6 interval of time (in
the space of an hour). 7 amount of paper used in writing, available for
advertising, etc. 8 a blank between printed, typed, or written words, etc. B piece
of metal providing this. 9 freedom to think, be oneself, etc. (need my own
space). —v. (-cing) 1 set or arrange at intervals. 2 put spaces between. 3 (as
spaced adj.) (often foll. By out) slang euphoric, esp. From taking drugs. space
out spread out (more) widely. spacer n. [latin spatium]
Space age —n. Era of space travel. —attrib. Adj. (space-age) very modern.
Space age —n. Era of space travel. —attrib. Adj. (space-age) very modern.
Spaceship n. Spacecraft.
Space shuttle n. Spacecraft for repeated use, esp. Between the earth and a space
station.
Spade1 n. Long-handled digging tool with a broad sharp-edged metal blade. call
a spade a spade speak bluntly. spadeful n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Span1 —n. 1 full extent from end to end. 2 each part of a bridge between
supports. 3 maximum lateral extent of an aeroplane or its wing, or a bird’s wing,
etc. 4 a maximum distance between the tips of the thumb and little finger. B this
as a measure of 9 in. —v. (-nn-) 1 stretch from side to side of; extend across. 2
bridge (a river etc.). [old english]
Spandrel n. Space between the curve of an arch and the surrounding rectangular
moulding, or between the curves of adjoining arches and the moulding above.
[origin uncertain]
Spangle —n. Small piece of glittering material, esp. One of many used to
ornament a dress etc.; sequin. —v. (-ling) (esp. As spangled adj.) Cover with or
as with spangles (star-spangled). [obsolete spang from dutch]
Spaniel n. Dog of a breed with a long silky coat and drooping ears. [french
espaigneul spanish (dog)]
Spanish —adj. Of spain, its people, or language. —n. 1 the language of spain
and spanish america. 2 (the spanish) (pl.) The people of spain. [spain in europe]
Spank —v. 1 slap, esp. On the buttocks as punishment. 2 (of a horse etc.) Move
briskly. —n. Slap, esp. On the buttocks. [imitative]
Spanker n. Naut. Fore-and-aft sail set on the after side of the mizen-mast.
Spar1 n. 1 stout pole, esp. As a ship’s mast etc. 2 main longitudinal beam of an
aeroplane wing. [old norse sperra or french esparre]
Spar2 —v. (-rr-) 1 make the motions of boxing without heavy blows. 2 argue. —
n. 1 sparring motion. 2 boxing-match. [old english]
Spare —adj. 1 a not required for normal or immediate use; extra. B for
emergency or occasional use. 2 lean; thin. 3 frugal. —n. Spare part. —v. (-ring)
1 afford to give, do without; dispense with (spared me ten minutes). 2 a refrain
from killing, hurting, etc. B abstain from inflicting (spare me this task). 3 be
frugal or grudging of (no expense spared). go spare colloq. Become very angry
or distraught. Not spare oneself exert one’s utmost efforts. Spare a person’s life
not kill him or her. To spare left over; additional (an hour to spare). sparely adv.
Spareness n. [old english]
Spark —n. 1 fiery particle thrown from a fire, alight in ashes, or produced by a
flint, match, etc. 2 (often foll. By of) small amount (spark of interest). 3 a flash
of light between electric conductors etc. B this serving to ignite the explosive
mixture in an internal-combustion engine. 4 a flash of wit etc. B (also bright
spark) witty or lively person. —v. 1 emit a spark or sparks. 2 (often foll. By off)
stir into activity; initiate. sparky adj. [old english]
Sparkle —v. (-ling) 1 a emit or seem to emit sparks; glitter, glisten. B be witty;
scintillate. 2 (of wine etc.) Effervesce. —n. 1 glitter. 2 lively quality (the song
scintillate. 2 (of wine etc.) Effervesce. —n. 1 glitter. 2 lively quality (the song
lacks sparkle). sparkly adj.
Spasmodic adj. Of or in spasms, intermittent. spasmodically adv. [greek: related
to *spasm]
Spastic —adj. Of or having cerebral palsy. —n. 1 spastic person. 2 slang offens.
Stupid or incompetent person. [greek: related to *spasm]
Spawn —v. 1 a (of a fish, frog, etc.) Produce (eggs). B be produced as eggs or
young. 2 produce or generate in large numbers. —n. 1 eggs of fish, frogs, etc. 2
mycelium of mushrooms or other fungi. [anglo-french espaundre: related to
*expand]
Speak v. (past spoke; past part. Spoken) 1 utter words in an ordinary voice. 2
utter (words, the truth, etc.). 3 a converse; talk (spoke to her earlier; had to speak
to the children about rudeness). B (foll. By of, about) mention in writing etc. C
(foll. By for) act as spokesman for. 4 (foll. By to) speak with reference to;
support in words (spoke to the resolution). 5 make a speech. 6 use or be able to
use (a specified language). 7 a convey an idea (actions speak louder than words).
B (usu. Foll. By to) communicate feeling etc.; affect, touch (the sunset spoke to
her). generally (or strictly etc.) Speaking in the general (or strict etc.) Sense. Not
(or nothing) to speak of not (or nothing) worth mentioning. On speaking terms
friendly enough to converse. Speak for itself be sufficient evidence. Speak out
(often followed by against) give one’s opinion courageously. Speak up 1 speak
loudly or freely; speak louder. 2 (followed by for) defend. Speak volumes be
very significant. [old english]
Speakeasy n. (pl. -ies) us hist. Slang place where alcoholic liquor was sold
illicitly.
Speaker n. 1 person who speaks, esp. In public. 2 person who speaks a specified
language (esp. In comb.: a french-speaker). 3 (speaker) presiding officer in a
legislative assembly, esp. The house of commons. 4 = *loudspeaker.
Spear —n. 1 thrusting or throwing weapon with a long shaft and a pointed usu.
Steel tip. 2 a tip and stem of asparagus, broccoli, etc. B blade of grass etc. —v.
Pierce or strike (as) with a spear. [old english]
Spearhead —n. 1 point of a spear. 2 person or group leading an attack etc. —v.
Act as the spearhead of (an attack etc.).
Spearwort n. Aquatic plant with narrow spear-shaped leaves and yellow flowers.
Special —adj. 1 a exceptional. B peculiar; specific. 2 for a particular purpose. 3
for children with special needs (special school). —n. Special constable, train,
edition of a newspaper, dish on a menu, etc. specially adv. Specialness n. [latin:
related to *species]
Speciality n. (pl. -ies) 1 special subject, product, activity, etc. 2 special feature or
skill.
Specialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (often foll. By in) a be or become a
specialist. B devote oneself to an interest, skill, etc. (specializes in insulting
people). 2 (esp. In passive) adapt for a particular purpose (specialized organs). 3
(as specialized adj.) Of a specialist (specialized work). specialization n. [french:
related to *special]
Specific heat capacity n. Heat required to raise the temperature of the unit mass
of a given substance by a given amount (usu. One degree).
Speck —n. 1 small spot or stain. 2 particle. —v. (esp. As specked adj.) Marked
with specks. [old english]
Speckle —n. Speck, esp. One of many markings. —v. (-ling) (esp. As speckled
adj.) Mark with speckles. [dutch spekkel]
Spectacle n. 1 striking, impressive, or ridiculous sight. 2 public show. 3 object of
public attention. [latin specio spect-look]
Spectacles n.pl. Pair of lenses in a frame resting on the nose and ears, used to
correct defective eyesight.
Spectator n. Person who watches a show, game, incident, etc. spectate v. (-ting)
informal. [latin: related to *spectacle]
Spectre n. (us specter) 1 ghost. 2 haunting presentiment (spectre of war). [latin
spectrum from specio look]
Spectrum n. (pl. -tra) 1 band of colours as seen in a rainbow etc. 2 entire or wide
range of a subject, emotion, etc. 3 distribution of electromagnetic radiation in
which the parts are arranged according to wavelength. [latin specio look]
Speculate v. (-ting) 1 (usu. Foll. By on, upon, about) theorize, conjecture. 2 deal
in a commodity or asset in the hope of profiting from fluctuating prices.
speculation n. Speculative adj. Speculator n. [latin specula watch-tower, from
specio look]
Speculum n. (pl. -la) 1 instrument for dilating orifices of the body. 2 mirror of
polished metal in a telescope. [latin, = mirror]
Speedway n. 1 a motor-cycle racing. B arena for this. 2 us road or track for fast
traffic.
Speedwell n. Small plant with bright blue flowers. [from *speed, *well1]
Speedy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 rapid. 2 done without delay; prompt. speedily adv.
Speediness n.
Spell1 v. (past and past part. Spelt or spelled) 1 (also absol.) Write or name
correctly the letters of (a word etc.). 2 a (of letters) form (a word etc.). B result in
(spell ruin). spell out 1 make out (words etc.) Letter by letter. 2 explain in detail.
speller n. [french espeller related to *spell2]
Spell3 n. 1 short or fairly short period (a cold spell). 2 period of some activity or
work. [old english, = substitute]
Spellbind v. (past and past part. Spellbound) 1 (esp. As spellbinding adj.) Hold
the attention as if with a spell; entrance. 2 (as spellbound adj.) Entranced,
fascinated.
Spend v. (past and past part. Spent) 1 pay out (money). 2 a use or consume (time
or energy). B use up (material etc.). 3 (as spent adj.) Having lost its original
force or strength; exhausted. spend a penny colloq. Go to the lavatory. spender n.
[latin: related to *expend]
Spermaceti n. White waxy substance from the sperm whale, used for ointments
etc. [medieval latin, = whale sperm]
Spermatozoon n. (pl. -zoa) mature sex cell in semen. [from *sperm, greek zoion
animal]
Spew v. (also spue) 1 (often foll. By up) vomit. 2 (often foll. By out) (cause to)
gush. [old english]
Sphagnum n. (pl. -na) (in full sphagnum moss) moss growing in bogs, used as
packing etc. [greek sphagnos]
Sphere n. 1 solid figure with every point on its surface equidistant from its
centre; its surface. 2 ball, globe. 3 a field of action, influence, etc. B social class.
4 hist. Each of the revolving shells in which celestial bodies were thought to be
set. [greek sphaira ball]
Sphinx n. 1 (sphinx) (in greek mythology) winged monster with a woman’s head
and a lion’s body, whose riddle oedipus guessed. 2 antiq. A ancient egyptian
stone figure with a lion’s body and a human or animal head.
Spick and span adj. 1 neat and clean. 2 smart and new. [earlier span and span
new, fresh and new like a shaved chip]
Spidery adj. Elongated and thin (spidery handwriting).
Spigot n. 1 small peg or plug, esp. In a cask. 2 device for controlling the flow of
liquid in a tap. [related to *spike2]
Spike1 —n. 1 a sharp point. B pointed piece of metal, esp. The top of an iron
railing. 2 a metal point in the sole of a running-shoe to prevent slipping. B (in
pl.) Spiked running-shoes. 3 pointed metal rod used for filing rejected news
items. 4 large nail. —v. (-king) 1 put spikes on or into. 2 fix on a spike. 3 colloq.
A lace (a drink) with alcohol etc. B contaminate with something added. 4 colloq.
Reject (a newspaper story). spike a person’s guns spoil his or her plans. [low
german or dutch: related to *spoke1]
Spiky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like a spike; having or sticking up in spikes. 2 colloq.
Touchy, irritable. spikily adv. Spikiness n.
Spill1 —v. (past and past part. Spilt or spilled) 1 fall or run or cause (liquid,
powder, etc.) To fall or run out of a container, esp. Accidentally. 2 a throw from
a vehicle, saddle, etc. B (foll. By into, out etc.) (esp. Of a crowd) leave a place
quickly. 3 slang disclose (information etc.). 4 shed (blood). —n. 1 spilling or
being spilt. 2 tumble, esp. From a horse, bicycle, etc. spill the beans colloq.
Divulge information etc. Spill over overflow. spillage n. [old english]
Spill2 n. Thin strip of wood or paper etc. For lighting a fire, pipe, etc. [low
german or dutch]
Spillikin n. 1 splinter of wood etc. 2 (in pl.) Game in which thin rods are
removed one at a time from a heap without moving the others. [from *spill2]
Spin —v. (-nn-; past and past part. Spun) 1 (cause to) turn or whirl round
quickly. 2 (also absol.) A draw out and twist (wool, cotton, etc.) Into threads. B
make (yarn) in this way. 3 (of a spider, silkworm, etc.) Make (a web, cocoon,
etc.) By extruding a fine viscous thread. 4 (esp. Of the head) be dizzy through
excitement etc. 5 tell or write (a story etc.). 6 (as spun adj.) Made into threads
(spun glass; spun gold). 7 toss (a coin). 8 = spin-dry (*spin-drier). —n. 1
spinning motion; whirl. 2 rotating dive of an aircraft. 3 secondary twisting
motion, e.g. Of a ball in flight. 4 colloq. Brief drive, esp. In a car. spin out
prolong. Spin a yarn tell a story. [old english]
Spina bifida n. Congenital spinal defect in which part of the spinal cord
protrudes. [latin, = cleft spine]
Spinal adj. Of the spine. [latin: related to *spine]
Spindle n. 1 slender rod or bar, often tapered, for twisting and winding thread. 2
pin or axis that revolves or on which something revolves. 3 turned piece of wood
used as a banister, chair leg, etc. [old english: related to *spin]
Spindly adj. (-ier, -iest) long or tall and thin; thin and weak.
Spindrift n. Spray on the surface of the sea. [scots var. Of spoondrift from
obsolete spoon scud]
Spine n. 1 vertebrae extending from the skull to the coccyx; backbone. 2 needle-
like outgrowth of an animal or plant. 3 part of a book enclosing the page-
fastening. 4 sharp ridge or projection. [latin spina]
Spine-chiller n. Frightening and usu. Exciting story, film, etc. spine-chilling adj.
Spinney n. (pl. -s) small wood; thicket. [latin spinetum from spina thorn]
Spinning-jenny n. Hist. Machine for spinning fibres with more than one spindle
at a time.
Spinning wheel n. Household device for spinning yarn or thread, with a spindle
driven by a wheel with a crank or treadle.
Spiraea n. (us spirea) shrub with clusters of small white or pink flowers. [greek:
related to *spiral]
Spire n. 1 tapering structure, esp. On a church tower. 2 any tapering thing. [old
Spire n. 1 tapering structure, esp. On a church tower. 2 any tapering thing. [old
english]
Spirea n. (brit. Spiraea) shrub with clusters of small white or pink flowers.
[greek: related to *spiral]
Spirit-level n. Device with a glass tube nearly filled with alcohol, used to test
horizontality.
Spiritualism n. Belief in, and supposed practice of, communication with the
dead, esp. Through mediums. spiritualist n. Spiritualistic adj.
Spit1 —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Spat or spit) 1 a (also absol.) Eject (esp.
Saliva) from the mouth. B do this in contempt or anger. 2 utter vehemently. 3 (of
a fire, gun, etc.) Throw out with an explosion. 4 (of rain) fall lightly. 5 make a
spitting noise. —n. 1 spittle. 2 act of spitting. spit it out colloq. Say it quickly
and concisely. [old english]
Spit2 —n. 1 rod for skewering meat for roasting on a fire etc. 2 point of land
projecting into the sea. —v. (-tt-) pierce (as) with a spit. [old english]
Spite —n. Ill will, malice. —v. (-ting) hurt, harm, or frustrate (a person) through
spite. in spite of notwithstanding. [french: related to *despite]
Spiv n. Colloq. Man, esp. A flashily-dressed one, living from shady dealings.
spivvish adj. Spivvy adj. [origin unknown]
Splash —v. 1 scatter or cause (liquid) to scatter in drops. 2 wet with spattered
liquid etc. 3 a (usu. Foll. By across, along, about, etc.) Move while spattering
liquid etc. B jump or fall into water etc. With a splash. 4 display (news)
prominently. 5 decorate with scattered colour. 6 spend (money) ostentatiously.
—n. 1 act or noise of splashing. 2 quantity of liquid splashed. 3 mark etc. Made
by splashing. 4 prominent news feature, display, etc. 5 patch of colour. 6 colloq.
Small quantity of soda water etc. (in drink). make a splash attract attention.
Splash out colloq. Spend money freely. splashy adj. (-ier, -iest). [imitative]
Splashback n. Panel behind a sink etc. To protect the wall from splashes.
Splat colloq. —n. Sharp splattering sound. —adv. With a splat. —v. (-tt-) fall or
hit with a splat. [abbreviation of *splatter]
Splatter —v. Splash esp. With a continuous noisy action; spatter. —n. Noisy
splashing sound. [imitative]
Splay —v. 1 spread apart. 2 (of an opening) have its sides diverging. 3 construct
(an opening) with divergent sides. —n. Surface at an oblique angle to another.
—adj. Splayed. [from *display]
Splice —v. (-cing) 1 join (ropes) by interweaving strands. 2 join (pieces of wood
or tape etc.) By overlapping. 3 (esp. As spliced adj.) Colloq. Join in marriage. —
n. Join made by splicing. splice the main brace naut. Hist. Slang issue an extra
tot of rum. [probably dutch splissen]
Splint —n. Strip of wood etc. Bound to a broken limb while it sets. —v. Secure
with a splint. [low german or dutch]
Splinter —n. Small sharp fragment of wood, stone, glass, etc. —v. Break into
splinters; shatter. splintery adj. [dutch: related to *splint]
Split —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Split) 1 a break, esp. With the grain or into
halves; break forcibly. B (often foll. By up) divide into parts, esp. Equal shares
(they split the money). 2 (often foll. By off, away) remove or be removed by
breaking or dividing. 3 a (usu. Foll. By on, over, etc.) Divide into disagreeing or
hostile parties (split on the question of picketing). B (foll. By with) quarrel or
cease association with. 4 cause the fission of (an atom). 5 slang leave, esp.
Suddenly. 6 (usu. Foll. By on) colloq. Inform. 7 a (as splitting adj.) (of a
headache) severe. B (of the head) suffer from a severe headache, noise, etc. —n.
1 act or result of splitting. 2 disagreement; schism. 3 (in pl.) Feat of leaping in
the air or sitting down with the legs at right angles to the body in front and
behind or on either side. 4 dish of split bananas etc. With ice-cream. split the
difference take the average of two proposed amounts. Split hairs make
insignificant distinctions. Split one’s sides laugh uncontrollably. Split up
separate, end a relationship. [dutch]
Split infinitive n. Infinitive with an adverb etc. Inserted between to and the verb.
Split-level adj. (of a room etc.) With more than one level.
Split pin n. Metal cotter passed through a hole and held by the pressing back of
the two ends.
Split second —n. 1 very brief moment. 2 (of timing) very accurate. —attrib. Adj.
(split-second) 1 very rapid. 2 (of timing) very accurate.
Splodge colloq. —n. Daub, blot, or smear. —v. (-ging) make a splodge on.
splodgy adj. [alteration of *splotch]
Splosh colloq. —v. Move with a splashing sound. —n. 1 splashing sound. 2
splash of water etc. [imitative]
Spoil —v. (past and past part. Spoilt or spoiled) 1 a make or become useless or
unsatisfactory. B reduce the enjoyment etc. Of (the news spoiled his dinner). 2
make (esp. A child) unpleasant by overindulgence. 3 (of food) go bad. 4 render
(a ballot-paper) invalid by improper marking. —n. (usu. In pl.) 1 plunder, stolen
goods. 2 profit or advantage from success or position. be spoiling for
aggressively seek (a fight etc.). Spoilt for choice having so many choices that it
is difficult to choose. [latin spolio]
Spoke1 n. Each of the rods running from the hub to the rim of a wheel. put a
spoke in a person’s wheel thwart or hinder a person. spoked adj. [old english]
Spoken past part. Of *speak. —adj. (in comb.) Speaking in a specified way
(well-spoken). spoken for claimed (this seat is spoken for).
Sponge —n. 1 sea animal with a porous body wall and a rigid internal skeleton.
2 this skeleton or a piece of porous rubber etc. Used in bathing, cleaning, etc. 3
thing like a sponge in consistency etc., esp. A sponge cake. 4 act of sponging. —
v. (-ging) 1 wipe or cleanse with a sponge. 2 (often foll. By out, away, etc.)
Wipe off or efface (as) with a sponge. 3 (often foll. By up) absorb (as) with a
sponge. 4 (often foll. By on, off) live as a parasite. spongiform adj. (esp. In
senses 1, 2 of the n.). [latin spongia]
Sponger n. Parasitic person.
Spongy adj. (-ier, -iest) like a sponge, porous, elastic, absorbent. sponginess n.
Sponsor —n. 1 person who pledges money to a charity etc. In return for another
person fulfilling a sporting etc. Challenge. 2 a patron of an artistic or sporting
activity etc. B company etc. Supporting a broadcast in return for advertising
time. 3 person who introduces legislation. 4 godparent at a baptism or (esp. Rc
ch.) Person who presents a candidate for baptism. —v. Be a sponsor for.
sponsorial adj. Sponsorship n. [latin spondeo spons-pledge]
Spook —n. Colloq. Ghost. —v. Esp. Us frighten, unnerve. [low german or
dutch]
Spooky adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Ghostly, eerie. spookily adv. Spookiness n.
Spool —n. 1 reel for winding magnetic tape, yarn, etc., on. 2 revolving cylinder
of an angler’s reel. —v. Wind on a spool. [french espole or germanic spole]
Spoon —n. 1 a utensil with a bowl and a handle for lifting food to the mouth,
stirring, etc. B spoonful, esp. Of sugar. 2 spoon-shaped thing, esp. (in full spoon-
bait) a revolving metal fish-lure. —v. 1 (often foll. By up, out) take (liquid etc.)
With a spoon. 2 hit (a ball) feebly upwards. 3 colloq. Kiss and cuddle. spoonful
n. (pl. -s). [old english]
Spoonfeed v. (past and past part. -fed) 1 feed with a spoon. 2 give such extensive
help etc. To (a person) that he or she need make no effort.
Sport —n. 1 a game or competitive activity, usu. Played outdoors and involving
physical exertion, e.g. Cricket, football, racing. B these collectively. 2 (in pl.)
Meeting for competing in sports, esp. Athletics. 3 amusement, fun. 4 colloq. A
fair, generous, or sporting person. B person with a specified attitude to games,
rules, etc. 5 animal or plant deviating from the normal type. —v. 1 amuse
oneself, play about. 2 wear or exhibit, esp. Ostentatiously. in sport jestingly.
Make sport of ridicule. [from *disport]
Sporty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 fond of sport. 2 rakish, showy. sportily adv.
Sportiness n.
Spot —n. 1 small roundish area or mark differing in colour, texture, etc., from
the surface it is on. 2 pimple or blemish. 3 moral blemish or stain. 4 particular
place, locality. 5 particular part of one’s body or aspect of one’s character. 6
colloq. One’s esp. Regular position in an organization, programme, etc. 7 a
colloq. Small quantity (spot of trouble). B drop (spot of rain). 8 = *spotlight. 9
(usu. Attrib.) Money paid or goods delivered immediately after a sale (spot
cash). —v. (-tt-) 1 colloq. Pick out, recognize, catch sight of. 2 watch for and
take note of (trains, talent, etc.). 3 (as spotted adj.) Marked or decorated with
spots. 4 make spots, rain slightly. in a spot (or in a tight etc. Spot) colloq. In
difficulty. On the spot 1 at the scene of an event. 2 colloq. In a position
demanding response or action. 3 without delay. 4 without moving forwards or
backwards (running on the spot). [perhaps from low german or dutch]
Spotlight —n. 1 beam of light directed on a small area. 2 lamp projecting this. 3
full publicity. —v. (past and past part. -lighted or -lit) 1 direct a spotlight on. 2
draw attention to.
Spotty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 marked with spots. 2 patchy, irregular. spottiness n.
Spot-weld v. Join (two metal surfaces) by welding at discrete points. spot weld
n. Spot welder n. Spot welding n.
Spout —n. 1 projecting tube or lip used for pouring from a teapot, kettle, jug,
etc., or on a fountain, roof-gutter, etc. 2 jet or column of liquid etc. —v. 1
discharge or issue forcibly in a jet. 2 utter or speak at length or pompously. up
the spout slang 1 useless, ruined, broken down. 2 pregnant. [dutch]
Sprain —v. Wrench (an ankle, wrist, etc.), causing pain or swelling. —n. Such a
wrench. [origin unknown]
Sprawl —v. 1 a sit, lie, or fall with limbs flung out untidily. B spread (one’s
Sprawl —v. 1 a sit, lie, or fall with limbs flung out untidily. B spread (one’s
limbs) thus. 2 (of writing, a plant, a town, etc.) Be irregular or straggling. —n. 1
sprawling movement, position, or mass. 2 straggling urban expansion. [old
english]
Spray1 —n. 1 water etc. Flying in small drops. 2 liquid sprayed with an aerosol
etc. 3 device for this. —v. 1 (also absol.) Throw (liquid) as spray. 2 (also absol.)
Sprinkle (an object) thus, esp. With insecticide. 3 (of a tom-cat) mark its
environment with urine, to attract females. sprayer n. [origin uncertain]
Spread —v. (past and past part. Spread) 1 (often foll. By out) a open, extend, or
unfold. B cause to cover a surface or larger area. C display thus. 2 (often foll. By
out) have a wide, specified, or increasing extent. 3 become or make widely
known, felt, etc. (rumours are spreading). 4 a cover (spread the wall with paint).
B lay (a table). —n. 1 act of spreading. 2 capability or extent of spreading (has a
large spread). 3 diffusion (spread of learning). 4 breadth. 5 increased girth
(middle-aged spread). 6 difference between two rates, prices, etc. 7 colloq.
Elaborate meal. 8 paste for spreading on bread etc. 9 bedspread. 10 printed
matter spread across more than one column. spread oneself be lavish or
discursive. Spread one’s wings develop one’s powers fully. [old english]
Spread eagle —n. Figure of an eagle with legs and wings extended as an
emblem. —v. (spread-eagle) 1 (usu. As spread-eagled adj.) Place (a person) with
arms and legs spread out. 2 defeat utterly.
Sprig —n. 1 small branch or shoot. 2 ornament resembling this, esp. On fabric.
—v. (-gg-) ornament with sprigs (sprigged muslin). [low german sprick]
Sprightly adj. (-ier, -iest) vivacious, lively, brisk. sprightliness n. [from spright,
var. Of *sprite]
Spring —v. (past sprang; past part. Sprung) 1 rise rapidly or suddenly, leap,
jump. 2 move rapidly by or as by the action of a spring. 3 (usu. Foll. By from)
originate (from ancestors, a source, etc.). 4 act or appear suddenly or
unexpectedly (a breeze sprang up; spring to mind; spring to life). 5 (often foll.
By on) present (a thing or circumstance etc.) Suddenly or unexpectedly (sprang
it on me). 6 slang contrive the escape of (a person from prison etc.). 7 rouse
(game) from a covert etc. 8 (usu. As sprung adj.) Provide (a mattress etc.) With
springs. —n. 1 jump, leap. 2 recoil. 3 elasticity. 4 elastic device, usu. Of coiled
metal, used esp. To drive clockwork or for cushioning in furniture or vehicles. 5
a (often attrib.) The first season of the year, in which new vegetation begins to
appear. B (often foll. By of) early stage of life etc. 6 place where water, oil, etc.,
wells up from the earth; basin or flow so formed. 7 motive for or origin of an
action, custom, etc. spring a leak develop a leak. Spring up come into being,
appear. springlike adj. [old english]
Spring tide n. Tide just after the new and the full moon when there is the greatest
difference between high and low water.
Springy adj. (-ier, -iest) springing back quickly when squeezed, bent, or
stretched; elastic. springiness n.
Sprinkle —v. (-ling) 1 scatter in small drops or particles. 2 (often foll. By with)
subject to sprinkling with liquid etc. 3 (of liquid etc.) Fall on in this way. 4
distribute in small amounts. —n. (usu. Foll. By of) 1 light shower. 2 =
*sprinkling. [origin uncertain]
Sprint —v. 1 run a short distance at full speed. 2 run (a specified distance) thus.
—n. 1 such a run. 2 short burst in cycling, swimming, etc. sprinter n. [old norse]
Sprit n. Small diagonal spar from the mast to the upper outer corner of a sail.
[old english]
Sprout —v. 1 put forth (shoots, hair, etc.). 2 begin to grow. —n. 1 shoot of a
plant. 2 = *brussels sprout. [old english]
Spruce1 —adj. Neatly dressed etc.; smart. —v. (-cing) (usu. Foll. By up) make
or become smart. sprucely adv. Spruceness n. [perhaps from *spruce2]
Spruce2 n. 1 conifer with dense conical foliage. 2 its wood. [obsolete pruce
prussia]
Spry adj. (spryer, spryest) lively, nimble. spryly adv. [origin unknown]
Spud —n. 1 colloq. Potato. 2 small narrow spade for weeding. —v. (-dd-) (foll.
By up, out) remove with a spud. [origin unknown]
Spume n. & v. (-ming) froth, foam. spumy adj. (-ier, -iest). [latin spuma]
Spur —n. 1 small spike or spiked wheel worn on a rider’s heel for urging on a
horse. 2 stimulus, incentive. 3 spur-shaped thing, esp.: a a projection from a
mountain or mountain range. B a branch road or railway. C a hard projection on
a cock’s leg. —v. (-rr-) 1 prick (a horse) with spurs. 2 incite or stimulate. on the
spur of the moment on impulse. [old english]
Spurge n. Plant with an acrid milky juice. [latin expurgare to clean out]
Spurt —v. 1 (cause to) gush out in a jet or stream. 2 make a sudden effort. —n. 1
sudden gushing out, jet. 2 short burst of speed, growth, etc. [origin unknown]
Sputter —v. Make a series of quick explosive sounds, splutter. —n. This sound.
[dutch (imitative)]
Spy —n. (pl. Spies) 1 person who secretly collects and reports information for a
government, company, etc. 2 person watching others secretly. —v. (spies, spied)
1 discern, see. 2 (often foll. By on) act as a spy. 3 (often foll. By into) pry. spy
out explore or discover, esp. Secretly. [french espie, espier]
Spyhole n. Peep-hole.
Squab —n. 1 young (esp. Unfledged) pigeon or other bird. 2 short fat person. 3
stuffed cushion, esp. As part of a car-seat. 4 sofa, ottoman. —adj. Short and fat,
squat. [perhaps from scandinavian]
Squabble —n. Petty or noisy quarrel. —v. (-ling) engage in this. [probably
imitative]
Squad n. 1 small group sharing a task etc., esp. Of soldiers or policemen (drug
squad). 2 sport team. [french escouade]
Squall —n. 1 sudden or violent wind, esp. With rain, snow, or sleet. 2 discordant
cry; scream (esp. Of a baby). —v. 1 utter a squall; scream. 2 utter with a squall.
squally adj. [probably alteration of squeal after bawl]
Square —n. 1 rectangle with four equal sides. 2 object of (approximately) this
shape. 3 open (usu. Four-sided) area surrounded by buildings. 4 product of a
number multiplied by itself (16 is the square of 4). 5 l-or t-shaped instrument for
obtaining or testing right angles. 6 slang conventional or old-fashioned person.
—adj. 1 square-shaped. 2 having or in the form of a right angle (square corner).
3 angular, not round. 4 designating a unit of measure equal to the area of a
square whose side is one of the unit specified (square metre). 5 (often foll. By
with) level, parallel. 6 (usu. Foll. By to) at right angles. 7 sturdy, squat (a man of
square frame). 8 arranged; settled (get things square). 9 (also all square) a with
no money owed. B (of scores) equal. 10 fair and honest. 11 direct (met with a
square refusal). 12 slang conventional or old-fashioned. —adv. 1 squarely (hit
me square on the jaw). 2 fairly, honestly. —v. (-ring) 1 make square. 2 multiply
(a number) by itself. 3 (usu. Foll. By to, with) adjust; make or be suitable or
consistent; reconcile. 4 mark out in squares. 5 settle or pay (a bill etc.). 6 place
(one’s shoulders etc.) Squarely facing forwards. 7 colloq. Pay or bribe (a
person). 8 (also absol.) Make the scores of (a match etc.) Equal. back to square
one colloq. Back to the starting-point with no progress made. Out of square not
at right angles. Square the circle 1 construct a square equal in area to a given
circle. 2 do what is impossible. Square peg in a round hole see *peg. Square up
settle an account etc. Square up to 1 move threateningly towards (a person). 2
face and tackle (a difficulty etc.) Resolutely. squarely adv. Squareness n.
Squarish adj. [french esquare, latin quadra]
Square-bashing n. Slang military drill on a barrack-square.
Square dance n. Dance with usu. Four couples facing inwards from four sides.
Square leg n. Fielding position in cricket at some distance on the batsman’s leg
side and nearly opposite the stumps.
Square-rigged adj. With the principal sails at right angles to the length of the
ship.
Squash1 —v. 1 crush or squeeze, esp. Flat or into pulp. 2 (often foll. By into)
colloq. Put or make one’s way by squeezing. 3 belittle, bully (a person). 4
suppress (a proposal, allegation, etc.). —n. 1 crowd; crowded state. 2 drink made
of crushed fruit. 3 (in full squash rackets) game played with rackets and a small
of crushed fruit. 3 (in full squash rackets) game played with rackets and a small
ball in a closed court.
Squash2 n. (pl. Same or -es) 1 trailing annual plant. 2 edible gourd of this.
[narragansett]
Squat —v. (-tt-) 1 sit on one’s heels or on the ground with the knees drawn up. 2
colloq. Sit down. 3 occupy a building as a squatter. —adj. (squatter, squattest)
short and thick, dumpy. —n. 1 squatting posture. 2 place occupied by squatters.
[french esquatir flatten]
Squawk —n. 1 loud harsh cry, esp. Of a bird. 2 complaint. —v. Utter a squawk.
[imitative]
Squeak —n. 1 short high-pitched cry or sound. 2 (also narrow squeak) narrow
escape. —v. 1 make a squeak. 2 utter (words) shrilly. 3 (foll. By by, through)
colloq. Pass narrowly. 4 slang turn informer. [imitative: related to *squeal,
*shriek]
Squeaky adj. (-ier, -iest) making a squeaking sound. squeakily adv. Squeakiness
n.
Squeaky clean adj. (usu. Hyphenated when attrib.) Colloq. 1 completely clean. 2
above criticism.
above criticism.
Squeal —n. Prolonged shrill sound or cry. —v. 1 make, or utter with, a squeal. 2
slang turn informer. 3 colloq. Protest vociferously. [imitative]
Squeeze —v. (-zing) 1 (often foll. By out) a exert pressure on, esp. To extract
moisture etc. B extract (moisture) by squeezing. 2 reduce in size or alter in shape
by squeezing. 3 force or push into or through a small or narrow space. 4 a harass
or pressure (a person). B (usu. Foll. By out of) obtain by extortion, entreaty, etc.
5 press (a person’s hand) in sympathy etc. —n. 1 squeezing or being squeezed. 2
close embrace. 3 crowd, crowded state. 4 small quantity produced by squeezing
(squeeze of lemon). 5 restriction on borrowing, investment, etc., in a financial
crisis. put the squeeze on colloq. Coerce or pressure. [origin unknown]
Squelch —v. 1 a make a sucking sound as of treading in thick mud. B move with
a squelching sound. 2 disconcert, silence. —n. Act or sound of squelching.
squelchy adj. [imitative]
Squib n. 1 small hissing firework that finally explodes. 2 satirical essay. [perhaps
imitative]
imitative]
Squid n. (pl. Same or -s) ten-armed marine cephalopod used as food. [origin
unknown]
Squint —v. 1 have eyes that do not move together but look in different
directions. 2 (often foll. By at) look obliquely or with half-closed eyes. —n. 1
condition causing squinting. 2 stealthy or sidelong glance. 3 colloq. Glance,
look. 4 oblique opening in a church wall affording a view of the altar. [obsolete
asquint, perhaps from dutch schuinte slant]
Squire —n. 1 country gentleman, esp. The chief landowner of a district. 2 hist.
Knight’s attendant. —v. (-ring) (of a man) attend or escort (a woman). [related to
*esquire]
Squirrel —n. 1 bushy-tailed usu. Tree-living rodent. 2 its fur. 3 hoarder. —v. (-
ll-; us -l-) 1 (often foll. By away) hoard. 2 (often foll. By around) bustle about.
[greek skiouros, from skia shade, oura tail]
Squirt —v. 1 eject (liquid etc.) In a jet. 2 be ejected in this way. 3 splash with a
squirted substance. —n. 1 a jet of water etc. B small quantity squirted. 2 syringe.
3 colloq. Insignificant but self-assertive person. [imitative]
Squish colloq. —n. Slight squelching sound. —v. Move with a squish. squishy
adj. (-ier, -iest). [imitative]
Sr symb. Strontium.
Ss abbr. 1 steamship. 2 hist. Nazi special police force. 3 saints. [sense 2 from
german schutz-staffel]
St abbr. Saint.
Stab —v. (-bb-) 1 pierce or wound with a knife etc. 2 (often foll. By at) aim a
blow with such a weapon. 3 cause a sensation like being stabbed (stabbing pain).
4 hurt or distress (a person, feelings, etc.). —n. 1 act of stabbing. 2 wound from
this. 3 colloq. Attempt. [origin unknown]
Stabilizer n. (also -iser) 1 device used to keep esp. A ship, aircraft, or (in pl.)
Child’s bicycle stable. 2 food additive for preserving texture.
Stable —adj. (-bler, -blest) 1 firmly fixed or established; not likely to move or
change. 2 (of a person) not easily upset or disturbed. —n. 1 building for keeping
horses. 2 establishment for training racehorses. 3 racehorses from one stable. 4
persons, products, etc., having a common origin or affiliation. 5 such an origin or
affiliation. —v. (-ling) put or keep in a stable. stably adv. [latin stabilis from sto
to stand]
Staccato esp. Mus. —adv. & adj. With each sound or note sharply distinct. —n.
(pl. -s) staccato passage or delivery. [italian]
Stack —n. 1 (esp. Orderly) pile or heap. 2 = haystack. 3 colloq. Large quantity
(a stack of work; stacks of money). 4 a = chimney-stack. B = *smokestack. C tall
factory chimney. 5 stacked group of aircraft. 6 part of a library where books are
compactly stored. 7 high detached rock, esp. Off the coast of scotland. —v. 1
pile in a stack or stacks. 2 a arrange (cards) secretly for cheating. B manipulate
(circumstances etc.) To suit one. 3 cause (aircraft) to fly in circles while waiting
to land. [old norse]
Stadium n. (pl. -s) athletic or sports ground with tiered seats for spectators.
[greek stadion]
Staff —n. 1 a stick or pole for use in walking or as a weapon. B stick or rod as a
sign of office etc. C person or thing that supports. 2 a people employed in a
business etc. B those in authority in a school etc. C body of officers assisting an
officer in high command (general staff). 3 (pl. -s or staves) mus. Set of usu. Five
parallel lines on or between which notes are placed to indicate their pitch. —v.
Provide (an institution etc.) With staff. [old english]
Staff college n. College where officers are trained for staff duties.
Stag n. 1 adult male deer. 2 stock exch. Slang person who applies for new
shares, intending to sell at once for a profit. [old english]
Stagger —v. 1 (cause to) walk unsteadily. 2 shock, confuse. 3 arrange (events
Stagger —v. 1 (cause to) walk unsteadily. 2 shock, confuse. 3 arrange (events
etc.) So that they do not coincide. 4 arrange (objects) so that they are not in line.
—n. 1 tottering movement. 2 (in pl.) Disease, esp. Of horses and cattle, causing
staggering. [old norse]
Stag-party n. Colloq. All-male celebration held esp. For a man about to marry.
Staid adj. Of quiet and steady character; sedate. [= stayed, past part. Of *stay1]
Stair n. 1 each of a set of fixed indoor steps. 2 (usu. In pl.) Set of these. [old
english]
Stairway n. = *staircase.
Stake1 —n. 1 stout sharpened stick driven into the ground as a support,
boundary mark, etc. 2 hist. A post to which a condemned person was tied to be
burnt alive. B (prec. By the) such death as a punishment. —v. (-king) 1 secure or
support with a stake or stakes. 2 (foll. By off, out) mark off (an area) with stakes.
3 establish (a claim). stake out colloq. Place under surveillance. [old english]
Stake2 —n. 1 sum of money etc. Wagered on an event. 2 (often foll. By in)
interest or concern, esp. Financial. 3 (in pl.) A prize-money, esp. In a horse-race.
B such a race. —v. 1 wager. 2 us colloq. Support, esp. Financially. at stake
risked, to be won or lost. [old english]
Stale —adj. 1 a not fresh. B musty, insipid, or otherwise the worse for age or
use. 2 trite, unoriginal (stale joke). 3 (of an athlete or performer) impaired by
excessive training. —v. (-ling) make or become stale. staleness n. [anglo-french
excessive training. —v. (-ling) make or become stale. staleness n. [anglo-french
estaler halt]
Stall1 —n. 1 trader’s booth or table in a market etc. 2 compartment for one
animal in a stable or cowhouse. 3 fixed, usu. Partly enclosed, seat in the choir or
chancel of a church. 4 (usu. In pl.) Each of the seats on the ground floor of a
theatre. 5 a compartment for one person in a shower-bath etc. B compartment for
one horse at the start of a race. 6 a stalling of an engine or aircraft. B condition
resulting from this. —v. 1 (of a vehicle or its engine) stop because of an
overload on the engine or an inadequate supply of fuel to it. 2 (of an aircraft or
its pilot) lose control because the speed is too low. 3 cause to stall. [old english]
Stall2 v. 1 play for time when being questioned etc. 2 delay, obstruct. [stall
‘decoy’: probably related to *stall1]
Stammer —v. 1 speak haltingly, esp. With pauses or rapid repetitions of the
same syllable. 2 (often foll. By out) utter (words) in this way. —n. 1 tendency to
stammer. 2 instance of stammering. [old english]
Stamp —v. 1 a bring down (one’s foot) heavily, esp. On the ground. B (often
foll. By on) crush or flatten in this way. C walk heavily. 2 a impress (a design,
mark, etc.) On a surface. B impress (a surface) with a pattern etc. 3 affix a
postage or other stamp to. 4 assign a specific character to; mark out. —n. 1
instrument for stamping. 2 a mark or design made by this. B impression of an
official mark required to be made on deeds, bills of exchange, etc., as evidence
of payment of tax. 3 small adhesive piece of paper indicating that payment has
been made, esp. A postage stamp. 4 mark or label etc. On a commodity as
evidence of quality etc. 5 act or sound of stamping the foot. 6 characteristic mark
or quality. stamp on 1 impress (an idea etc.) On (the memory etc.). 2 suppress.
Stamp-collector n. Philatelist.
Stanch v. (also staunch) 1 restrain the flow of (esp. Blood). 2 restrain the flow
from (esp. A wound). [french estanchier]
Stanchion n. 1 upright post or support. 2 upright bar or frame for confining cattle
in a stall. [anglo-french]
Stand —v. (past and past part. Stood) 1 have, take, or maintain an upright
position, esp. On the feet or a base. 2 be situated (here once stood a village). 3 be
of a specified height. 4 be in a specified state (stands accused; it stands as
follows). 5 set in an upright or specified position (stood it against the wall). 6 a
move to and remain in a specified position (stand aside). B take a specified
attitude (stand aloof). 7 maintain a position; avoid falling, moving, or being
moved. 8 assume a stationary position; cease to move. 9 remain valid or
unaltered. 10 naut. Hold a specified course. 11 endure, tolerate. 12 provide at
one’s own expense (stood him a drink). 13 (often foll. By for) be a candidate (for
office etc.) (stood for parliament). 14 act in a specified capacity (stood proxy).
15 undergo (trial). —n. 1 cessation from progress, stoppage. 2 a mil. Halt made
to repel an attack. B resistance to attack or compulsion (esp. Make a stand). C
cricket prolonged period at the wicket by two batsmen. 3 position taken up;
attitude adopted. 4 rack, set of shelves, etc. For storage. 5 open-fronted stall or
structure for a trader, exhibitor, etc. 6 standing-place for vehicles. 7 a raised
structure to sit or stand on. B us witness-box. 8 each halt made for a performance
on a tour. 9 group of growing plants (stand of trees). as it stands 1 in its present
condition. 2 in the present circumstances. Stand by 1 stand nearby; look on
without interfering. 2 uphold, support (a person). 3 adhere to (a promise etc.). 4
be ready for action. Stand a chance see *chance. Stand corrected accept
correction. Stand down withdraw from a position or candidacy. Stand for 1
represent, signify, imply. 2 colloq. Endure, tolerate. Stand one’s ground not
yield. Stand in (usu. Foll. By for) deputize. Stand off 1 move or keep away. 2
temporarily dismiss (an employee). Stand on insist on, observe scrupulously.
Stand on one’s own feet (or own two feet) be self-reliant or independent. Stand
out 1 be prominent or outstanding. 2 (usu. Foll. By against, for) persist in
opposition or support. Stand to 1 mil. Stand ready for an attack. 2 abide by. 3 be
likely or certain to. Stand to reason be obvious. Stand up 1 a rise to one’s feet. B
come to, remain in, or place in a standing position. 2 (of an argument etc.) Be
valid. 3 colloq. Fail to keep an appointment with.
Standard time n. Uniform time for places in approximately the same longitude,
established in a country or region by law or custom.
Standing —n. 1 esteem or repute, esp. High; status. 2 duration (of long
Standing —n. 1 esteem or repute, esp. High; status. 2 duration (of long
standing). —adj. 1 that stands, upright. 2 established, permanent (a standing rule;
a standing army). 3 (of a jump, start, etc.) Performed with no run-up. 4 (of water)
stagnant.
Standing ovation n. Prolonged applause from an audience which has risen to its
feet.
Standoff half n. Rugby half-back forming a link between the scrum-half and the
three-quarters.
Standpipe n. Vertical pipe extending from a water supply, esp. One connecting a
temporary tap to the mains.
Stand-up attrib. Adj. 1 (of a meal) eaten standing. 2 (of a fight) violent and
thorough. 3 (of a collar) not turned down. 4 (of a comedian) telling jokes to an
audience.
Stanza n. Basic metrical unit of a poem etc., typically of four to twelve rhymed
lines. [italian]
Staple1 —n. U-shaped metal bar or piece of wire with pointed ends for driving
into and holding papers together, or holding an electrical wire in place, etc. —v.
(-ling) fasten or provide with a staple. stapler n. [old english]
Staple2 —n. 1 principal or important article of commerce (staples of british
industry). 2 chief element or main component. 3 fibre of cotton or wool etc.
With regard to its quality (cotton of fine staple). —attrib. Adj. 1 main or
principal (staple diet). 2 important as a product or export. [french estaple market]
Star —n. 1 celestial body appearing as a luminous point in the night sky. 2 large
naturally luminous gaseous body such as the sun. 3 celestial body regarded as
influencing fortunes etc. 4 thing like a star in shape or appearance. 5 decoration
or mark of rank or excellence etc., usu. With radiating points. 6 a famous or
brilliant person; principal performer (star of the show).
Starboard —n. Right-hand side of a ship or aircraft looking forward. —v. (also
absol.) Turn (the helm) to starboard. [old english, = steer board]
Starchy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or containing starch. 2 prim, formal. starchily
adv. Starchiness n.
Stare —v. (-ring) 1 (usu. Foll. By at) look fixedly, esp. In curiosity, surprise,
horror, etc. 2 reduce (a person) to a specified condition by staring (stared me into
silence). —n. Staring gaze. stare a person in the face be evident or imminent.
Stare a person out stare at a person until he or she looks away. [old english]
Starfish n. (pl. Same or -es) echinoderm with five or more radiating arms.
Starfish n. (pl. Same or -es) echinoderm with five or more radiating arms.
Stark —adj. 1 sharply evident (in stark contrast). 2 desolate, bare. 3 absolute
(stark madness). —adv. Completely, wholly (stark naked). starkly adv. Starkness
n. [old english]
Star of david n. Two interlaced equilateral triangles used as a jewish and israeli
symbol.
Start —v. 1 begin. 2 set in motion or action (started a fire). 3 set oneself in
motion or action. 4 begin a journey etc. 5 (often foll. By up) (cause to) begin
operating. 6 a cause or enable (a person) to make a beginning (started me in
business). B (foll. By pres. Part.) Cause (a person) to begin (started me
coughing). 7 (often foll. By up) establish. 8 give a signal to (competitors) to start
in a race. 9 (often foll. By up, from, etc.) Jump in surprise, pain, etc. 10 spring
out, up, etc. 11 conceive (a baby). 12 rouse (game etc.). 13 a (of timbers etc.)
Spring out; give way. B cause (timbers etc.) To do this. —n. 1 beginning. 2 place
from which a race etc. Begins. 3 advantage given at the beginning of a race etc.
4 advantageous initial position in life, business, etc. 5 sudden movement of
surprise, pain, etc. for a start colloq. As a beginning. Start off begin; begin to
move. Start out begin a journey. Start up arise; occur. [old english]
Starter n. 1 device for starting a vehicle engine etc. 2 first course of a meal. 3
person giving the signal for the start of a race. 4 horse or competitor starting in a
race. for starters colloq. To start with.
Stash colloq. —v. (often foll. By away) 1 conceal; put in a safe place. 2 hoard.
—n. 1 hiding-place. 2 thing hidden. [origin unknown]
Stately home n. Large historic house, esp. One open to the public.
State of the art —n. Current stage of esp. Technological development. —attrib.
Adj. (usu. State-of-the-art) absolutely up-to-date (state-of-the-art weaponry).
State school n. School largely managed and funded by the public authorities.
Stationery n. Writing-materials, office supplies, etc.
Station of the cross n. Rc ch. Each of a series of images representing the events
in christ’s passion before which prayers are said.
Statuary —adj. Of or for statues (statuary art). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 statues
collectively. 2 making statues. 3 sculptor. [latin: related to *statue]
Statuesque adj. Like, or having the dignity or beauty of, a statue.
Statute law n. 1 (collect.) Body of principles and rules of law laid down in
statutes. 2 a statute.
Staunch1 adj. 1 loyal. 2 (of a ship, joint, etc.) Strong, watertight, airtight, etc.
staunchly adv. [french estanche]
Stave —n. 1 each of the curved slats forming the sides of a cask, pail, etc. 2 =
staff n. 3. 3 stanza or verse. —v. (-ving; past and past part. Stove or staved) (usu.
Foll. By in) break a hole in, damage, crush by forcing inwards. stave off avert or
defer (danger etc.). [from staff]
Stay1 —v. 1 continue in the same place or condition; not depart or change. 2
(often foll. By at, in, with) reside temporarily. 3 archaic or literary a stop or
check. B (esp. In imper.) Pause. 4 postpone (judgement etc.). 5 assuage (hunger
etc.), esp. Temporarily. —n. 1 act or period of staying. 2 suspension or
postponement of a sentence, judgement, etc. 3 prop, support. 4 (in pl.) Hist. (esp.
Boned) corset. stay the course endure to the end. Stay in remain indoors. Stay
the night remain overnight. Stay put colloq. Remain where it is placed or where
one is. Stay up not go to bed (until late). [anglo-french from latin sto stand: sense
3 of n. From french, formed as *stay2]
Stay2 n. 1 naut. Rope or guy supporting a mast, flagstaff, etc. 2 supporting cable
on an aircraft etc. [old english from germanic]
Steady —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 firmly fixed or supported; unwavering. 2 uniform and
regular (steady pace; steady increase). 3 a constant. B persistent. 4 (of a person)
serious and dependable. 5 regular, established (steady girlfriend). —v. (-ies, -
ied) make or become steady. —adv. Steadily. —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Regular
boyfriend or girlfriend. go steady (often foll. By with) colloq. Have as a regular
boyfriend or girlfriend. Steady on! Be careful! steadily adv. Steadiness n. [from
*stead]
Steak n. 1 thick slice of meat (esp. Beef) or fish, usu. Grilled or fried. 2 beef cut
for stewing or braising. [old norse]
Steal —v. (past stole; past part. Stolen) 1 (also absol.) Take (another’s property)
illegally or without right or permission, esp. In secret. 2 obtain surreptitiously,
insidiously, or artfully (stole a kiss). 3 (foll. By in, out, away, up, etc.) Move,
esp. Silently or stealthily. —n. 1 us colloq. Act of stealing or theft. 2 colloq.
Easy task or good bargain. steal a march on get an advantage over by
surreptitious means. Steal the show outshine other performers, esp.
Unexpectedly. Steal a person’s thunder take away the attention due to someone
else by using his or her words, ideas, etc. [old english]
Stealthy adj. (-ier, -iest) done or moving with stealth; furtive. stealthily adv.
Stealthiness n.
Steam —n. 1 a gas into which water is changed by boiling. B condensed vapour
formed from this. 2 a power obtained from steam. B colloq. Power or energy. —
v. 1 a cook (food) in steam. B treat with steam. 2 give off steam. 3 a move under
steam power. B (foll. By ahead, away, etc.) Colloq. Proceed or travel fast or with
vigour. 4 (usu. Foll. By up) a cover or become covered with condensed steam. B
(as steamed up adj.) Colloq. Angry or excited. [old english]
Steamroller —n. 1 heavy slow-moving vehicle with a roller, used to flatten new-
made roads. 2 a crushing power or force. —v. Crush or move forcibly or
indiscriminately; force.
Steamy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like or full of steam. 2 colloq. Erotic. steamily adv.
Steaminess n.
Steed n. Archaic or poet. Horse. [old english]
Steel —n. 1 strong malleable alloy of iron and carbon, used esp. For making
tools, weapons, etc. 2 strength, firmness (nerves of steel). 3 steel rod for
sharpening knives. —adj. Of or like steel. —v. (also refl.) Harden or make
resolute. [old english]
Steep1 —adj. 1 sloping sharply. 2 (of a rise or fall) rapid. 3 (predic.) Colloq. A
exorbitant; unreasonable. B exaggerated; incredible. —n. Steep slope; precipice.
steepen v. Steepish adj. Steeply adv. Steepness n. [old english]
Steep2 —v. Soak or bathe in liquid. —n. 1 act of steeping. 2 liquid for steeping.
steep in 1 pervade or imbue with. 2 make deeply acquainted with (a subject etc.).
[old english]
Steeple n. Tall tower, esp. With a spire, above the roof of a church. [old english:
related to *steep1]
Steer1 v. 1 (also absol.) Guide (a vehicle, ship, etc.) With a wheel or rudder etc.
2 direct or guide (one’s course, other people, a conversation, etc.) In a specified
direction. steer clear of avoid. steering n. [old english]
Stela n. (pl. Stelae) (also stele) archaeol. Upright slab or pillar usu. Inscribed and
sculpted, esp. As a gravestone. [latin and greek]
Stem1 —n. 1 main body or stalk of a plant. 2 stalk of a fruit, flower, or leaf. 3
stem-shaped part, as: a the slender part of a wineglass. B the tube of a tobacco-
pipe. C a vertical stroke in a letter or musical note. 4 gram. Root or main part of
a noun, verb, etc., to which inflections are added. 5 main upright timber at the
bow of a ship (from stem to stern). —v. (-mm-) (foll. By from) spring or
originate from. [old english]
Stencil —n. 1 (in full stencil-plate) thin sheet in which a pattern is cut, placed on
a surface and printed or inked over etc. To reproduce the pattern. 2 pattern so
produced. 3 waxed sheet etc. From which a stencil is made by a typewriter. —v.
(-ll-; us -l-) 1 (often foll. By on) produce (a pattern) with a stencil. 2 mark (a
surface) in this way. [french estanceler sparkle, from latin scintilla spark]
Stentorian adj. Loud and powerful. [stentor, name of a herald in homer’s iliad]
Stepchild n. One’s husband’s or wife’s child by a previous partner.
Stereophonic adj. Using two or more channels, giving the effect of naturally
distributed sound.
Stern1 adj. Severe, grim; authoritarian. sternly adv. Sternness n. [old english]
Stern2 n. Rear part, esp. Of a ship or boat. [old norse: related to *steer1]
Stertorous adj. (of breathing etc.) Laboured and noisy. [latin sterto snore]
Stet v. (-tt-) (usu. Written on a proof-sheet etc.) Ignore or cancel (the alteration);
let the original stand. [latin, = let it stand]
Stethoscope n. Instrument used in listening to the heart, lungs, etc. [greek stethos
breast]
Stetson n. Slouch hat with a very wide brim and high crown. [stetson, name of a
hat-maker]
Stick2 v. (past and past part. Stuck) 1 (foll. By in, into, through) insert or thrust
(a thing or its point). 2 stab. 3 (foll. By in, into, on, etc.) A fix or be fixed on a
pointed thing. B fix or be fixed (as) by a pointed end. 4 fix or be fixed (as) by
adhesive etc. 5 remain (in the mind).
Stickler n. (foll. By for) person who insists on something (stickler for accuracy).
[obsolete stickle be umpire]
Stiff —adj. 1 rigid; inflexible. 2 hard to bend, move, or turn etc. 3 hard to cope
with; needing strength or effort (stiff climb). 4 severe or strong (stiff penalty). 5
formal, constrained. 6 (of a muscle, person, etc.) Aching owing to exertion,
injury, etc. 7 (of esp. An alcoholic drink) strong. 8 (foll. By with) colloq.
Abounding in. —adv. Colloq. Utterly, extremely (bored stiff). —n. Slang 1
corpse. 2 foolish or useless person. stiffish adj. Stiffly adv. Stiffness n. [old
english]
Stigma n. (pl. -s or, esp. In sense 3, stigmata) 1 shame, disgrace. 2 part of the
pistil that receives the pollen in pollination. 3 (in pl.) (in christian belief) marks
like those on christ’s body after the crucifixion, appearing on the bodies of
certain saints etc. [greek stigma -mat-brand, dot]
Stigmatize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (often foll. By as) brand as unworthy or
disgraceful. [greek stigmatizo: related to *stigma]
Stile n. Steps allowing people but not animals to climb over a fence or wall. [old
english]
Stiletto n. (pl. -s) 1 short dagger. 2 (in full stiletto heel) a long tapering heel of a
shoe. B shoe with such a heel. 3 pointed instrument for making eyelets etc.
[italian diminutive: related to *style]
Still1 —adj. 1 not or hardly moving. 2 with little or no sound; calm and tranquil.
3 (of a drink) not effervescing. —n. 1 deep silence (still of the night). 2 static
photograph (as opposed to a motion picture), esp. A single shot from a cinema
film. —adv. 1 without moving (sit still). 2 even now or at a particular time (is he
still here?). 3 nevertheless. 4 (with compar.) Even, yet, increasingly (still greater
efforts). —v. Make or become still; quieten. stillness n. [old english]
Still2 n. Apparatus for distilling spirits etc. [obsolete still (v.) = *distil]
Still life n. (pl. Lifes) painting or drawing of inanimate objects, e.g. Fruit or
flowers.
Stilt n. 1 either of a pair of poles with foot supports for walking at a distance
above the ground. 2 each of a set of piles or posts supporting a building etc. [low
german or dutch]
Stilted adj. 1 (of literary style etc.) Stiff and unnatural; bombastic. 2 standing on
stilts.
Sting —n. 1 sharp wounding organ of an insect, snake, nettle, etc. 2 a act of
inflicting a wound with this. B the wound itself or the pain caused by it. 3
painful quality or effect. 4 pungency, vigour. 5 slang swindle. —v. (past and past
part. Stung) 1 a wound or pierce with a sting. B be able to sting. 2 feel or give a
tingling physical or sharp mental pain. 3 (foll. By into) incite, esp. Painfully
(stung into replying). 4 slang swindle, charge exorbitantly. sting in the tail
unexpected final pain or difficulty. [old english]
Stingray n. Broad flat-fish with a poisonous spine at the base of its tail.
Stingy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Niggardly, mean. stingily adv. Stinginess n.
[perhaps from *sting]
Stink —v. (past stank or stunk; past part. Stunk) 1 emit a strong offensive smell.
2 (often foll. By out) fill (a place) with a stink. 3 (foll. By out etc.) Drive (a
person) out etc. By a stink. 4 colloq. Be or seem very unpleasant. —n. 1 strong
or offensive smell. 2 colloq. Row or fuss. [old english]
Stinking —adj. 1 that stinks. 2 slang very objectionable. —adv. Slang extremely
and usu. Objectionably (stinking rich).
Stint —v. 1 supply (food or aid etc.) Meanly or grudgingly. 2 (often refl.) Supply
(a person etc.) In this way. —n. 1 limitation of supply or effort (without stint). 2
allotted amount of work (do one’s stint). 3 small sandpiper. [old english]
Stipendiary —adj. Receiving a stipend. —n. (pl. -ies) person receiving a stipend.
[latin: related to *stipend]
Stipple —v. (-ling) 1 draw or paint or engrave etc. With dots instead of lines. 2
roughen the surface of (paint, cement, etc.). —n. 1 stippling. 2 effect of
stippling. [dutch]
Stir1 —v. (-rr-) 1 move a spoon etc. Round and round in (a liquid etc.), esp. To
mix ingredients. 2 a cause to move, esp. Slightly. B be or begin to be in motion.
3 rise from sleep. 4 arouse, inspire, or excite (the emotions, a person, etc.). 5
colloq. Cause trouble between people by gossiping etc. —n. 1 act of stirring. 2
commotion, excitement. stir in add (an ingredient) by stirring. Stir up 1 mix
thoroughly by stirring. 2 stimulate, excite. stirrer n. [old english]
Stitch —n. 1 a (in sewing, knitting, or crocheting) single pass of a needle, or the
resulting thread or loop etc. B particular method of sewing etc. 2 least bit of
clothing (hadn’t a stitch on). 3 sharp pain in the side induced by running etc. —
v. Sew; make stitches (in). in stitches colloq. Laughing uncontrollably. Stitch up
1 join or mend by sewing. 2 slang trick, cheat, betray. [old english: related to
*stick2]
Stoat n. Mammal of the weasel family with brown fur turning mainly white in
the winter. [origin unknown]
Stock —n. 1 store of goods etc. Ready for sale or distribution etc. 2 supply or
quantity of anything for use. 3 equipment or raw material for manufacture or
trade etc. (rolling-stock). 4 farm animals or equipment. 5 a capital of a business.
B shares in this. 6 reputation or popularity (his stock is rising). 7 a money lent to
a government at fixed interest. B right to receive such interest. 8 line of ancestry
(comes of cornish stock). 9 liquid basis for soup etc. Made by stewing bones,
vegetables, etc. 10 fragrant-flowered cruciferous cultivated plant. 11 plant into
which a graft is inserted. 12 main trunk of a tree etc. 13 (in pl.) Hist. Timber
frame with holes for the feet in which offenders were locked as a public
punishment. 14 base, support, or handle for an implement or machine. 15 butt of
a rifle etc. 16 (in pl.) Supports for a ship during building or repair. 17 band of
cloth worn round the neck. —attrib. Adj. 1 kept in stock and so regularly
available. 2 hackneyed, conventional. —v. 1 have (goods) in stock. 2 provide (a
shop or a farm etc.) With goods, livestock, etc. 3 fit (a gun etc.) With a stock. in
(or out of) stock available (or not available) immediately for sale etc. Stock up
(often foll. By with) provide with or get stocks or supplies (of). Take stock 1
make an inventory of one’s stock. 2 (often foll. By of) review (a situation etc.).
[old english]
Stockade —n. Line or enclosure of upright stakes. —v. (-ding) fortify with this.
[spanish estacada]
Stock exchange n. 1 place for dealing in stocks and shares. 2 dealers working
there.
Stocking n. 1 long knitted covering for the leg and foot, of nylon, wool, silk, etc.
2 differently-coloured lower leg of a horse etc. in one’s stocking (or stockinged)
feet without shoes. [from *stock]
Stockjobber n. = *jobber 2.
Stockpile —n. Accumulated stock of goods etc. Held in reserve. —v. (-ling)
accumulate a stockpile of.
Stocky adj. (-ier, -iest) short and sturdy. stockily adv. Stockiness n.
Stodge n. Colloq. Heavy fattening food. [imitative, after stuff and podge]
Stodgy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of food) heavy and glutinous. 2 dull and uninteresting.
stodgily adv. Stodginess n.
Stoic —n. 1 member of the ancient greek school of philosophy which sought
virtue as the greatest good and taught control of one’s feelings and passions. 2
(stoic) stoical person. —adj. 1 of or like the stoics. 2 (stoic) = *stoical. [greek
stoa portico]
Stoke v. (-king) (often foll. By up) 1 feed and tend (a fire or furnace etc.). 2
colloq. Fill oneself with food. [back-formation from *stoker]
Stole1 n. 1 woman’s garment like a long wide scarf, worn over the shoulders. 2
strip of silk etc. Worn similarly by a priest. [greek stole equipment, clothing]
Stomach —n. 1 a internal organ in which digestion occurs. B any of several such
organs in animals. 2 lower front of the body. 3 (usu. Foll. By for) a appetite. B
inclination. —v. 1 find palatable. 2 endure (usu. With neg.: cannot stomach it).
[greek stoma mouth]
Stomach-pump n. Syringe for forcing liquid etc. Into or out of the stomach.
Stomp —v. Tread or stamp heavily. —n. Lively jazz dance with heavy stamping.
[var. Of *stamp]
Stone —n. 1 a solid non-metallic mineral matter; rock. B small piece of this. 2
(often in comb.) Piece of stone of a definite shape or for a particular purpose. 3 a
thing resembling stone, e.g. The hard case of the kernel in some fruits. B (often
in pl.) Hard morbid concretion in the body. 4 (pl. Same) unit of weight equal to
14 lb. 5 = *precious stone. 6 (attrib.) Made of stone. —v. (-ning) 1 pelt with
stones. 2 remove the stones from (fruit). cast (or throw) stones speak ill of a
person. Leave no stone unturned try all possible means. A stone’s throw a short
distance. [old english]
Stone age n. Prehistoric period when weapons and tools were made of stone.
Stonewashed adj. (esp. Of denim) washed with abrasives to give a worn or faded
look.
Stonework n. Masonry.
Stonker n. Slang excellent person or thing. stonking adj. [20th c.: origin
unknown]
Stooge colloq. —n. 1 butt or foil, esp. For a comedian. 2 assistant or subordinate,
esp. For routine or unpleasant work. —v. (-ging) 1 (foll. By for) act as a stooge
for. 2 (foll. By about, around, etc.) Move about aimlessly. [origin unknown]
for. 2 (foll. By about, around, etc.) Move about aimlessly. [origin unknown]
Stook —n. Group of sheaves of grain stood on end in a field. —v. Arrange in
stooks. [related to low german stuke]
Stoolball n. Team game with pairs of batters scoring runs between two bases.
Stoop1 —v. 1 lower the body, sometimes bending the knee; bend down. 2 stand
or walk with the shoulders habitually bent forward. 3 (foll. By to + infin.)
Condescend. 4 (foll. By to) descend to (some conduct). —n. Stooping posture.
[old english]
Stop —v. (-pp-) 1 a put an end to the progress, motion, or operation of. B
effectively hinder or prevent. C discontinue (stop playing). 2 come to an end
(supplies suddenly stopped). 3 cease from motion, speaking, or action. 4 defeat.
5 slang receive (a blow etc.). 6 remain; stay for a short time. 7 (often foll. By up)
block or close up (a hole, leak, etc.). 8 not permit or supply as usual (stop their
wages). 9 (in full stop payment of or on) instruct a bank to withhold payment on
(a cheque). 10 fill (a tooth). 11 press (a violin etc. String) to obtain the required
pitch. —n. 1 stopping or being stopped. 2 designated stopping-place for a bus or
train etc. 3 = *full stop. 4 device for stopping motion at a particular point. 5
change of pitch effected by stopping a string. 6 a (in an organ) row of pipes of
one character. B knob etc. Operating these. 7 optics & photog. = diaphragm 3a.
8 a effective diameter of a lens. B device for reducing this. 9 (of sound) =
plosive. pull out all the stops make extreme effort. Put a stop to cause to end.
Stop at nothing be ruthless. Stop off (or over) break one’s journey. [old english]
Stopcock n. Externally operated valve regulating the flow through a pipe etc.
Stoppage n. 1 interruption of work owing to a strike etc. 2 (in pl.) Sum deducted
from pay, for tax, national insurance, etc. 3 condition of being blocked or
stopped.
Stopper —n. Plug for closing a bottle etc. —v. Close with this.
Stop press n. (often attrib.) Late news inserted in a newspaper after printing has
begun.
Stopwatch n. Watch that can be stopped and started, used to time races etc.
Storage battery n. (also storage cell) battery (or cell) for storing electricity.
Storage heater n. Electric heater releasing heat stored outside peak hours.
Store —n. 1 quantity of something kept available for use. 2 (in pl.) A articles
gathered for a particular purpose. B supply of, or place for keeping, these. 3 a =
*department store. B esp. Us shop. C (often in pl.) Shop selling basic necessities.
4 warehouse for keeping furniture etc. Temporarily. 5 device in a computer for
keeping retrievable data. —v. (-ring) 1 (often foll. By up, away) accumulate for
future use. 2 put (furniture etc.) In a store. 3 stock or provide with something
useful. 4 keep (data) for retrieval. in store 1 kept in readiness. 2 coming in the
future. 3 (foll. By for) awaiting. Set store by consider important. [french estore(r)
from latin instauro renew]
Storm —n. 1 violent atmospheric disturbance with strong winds and usu.
Thunder, rain, or snow. 2 violent political etc. Disturbance. 3 (foll. By of) a
violent shower of missiles or blows. B outbreak of applause, hisses, etc. 4 a
direct assault by troops on a fortified place. B capture by such an assault. —v. 1
attack or capture by storm. 2 (usu. Foll. By in, out of, etc.) Move violently or
angrily (stormed out). 3 (often foll. By at, away) talk violently, rage, bluster.
take by storm 1 capture by direct assault. 2 rapidly captivate. [old english]
Storm centre n. 1 point to which the wind spirals inward in a cyclonic storm. 2
centre of controversy etc.
Storm petrel n. (also stormy petrel) 1 small black and white n. Atlantic petrel. 2
person causing unrest.
Stormy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or affected by storms. 2 (of a wind etc.) Violent. 3
full of angry feeling or outbursts (stormy meeting). stormily adv. Storminess n.
Story n. (pl. -ies) 1 account of imaginary or past events; tale, anecdote. 2 history
of a person or institution etc. 3 (in full story-line) narrative or plot of a novel,
play, etc. 4 facts or experiences worthy of narration. 5 colloq. Fib. [anglo-french
estorie from latin: related to *history]
Storyteller n. 1 person who tells stories. 2 colloq. Liar. storytelling n. & adj.
Stout —adj. 1 rather fat, corpulent, bulky. 2 thick or strong. 3 brave, resolute. —
Stout —adj. 1 rather fat, corpulent, bulky. 2 thick or strong. 3 brave, resolute. —
n. Strong dark beer. stoutly adv. Stoutness n. [anglo-french from germanic]
Stow v. Pack (goods, cargo, etc.) Tidily and compactly. stow away 1 place (a
thing) out of the way. 2 be a stowaway on a ship etc. [from *bestow]
Straddle v. (-ling) 1 a sit or stand across (a thing) with the legs spread. B be
situated on both sides of. 2 part (one’s legs) widely. [from *stride]
Straight —adj. 1 extending uniformly in the same direction; not bent or curved.
2 successive, uninterrupted (three straight wins). 3 ordered; level; tidy (put
things straight). 4 honest, candid. 5 (of thinking etc.) Logical. 6 (of theatre,
music, etc.) Serious, classical, not popular or comic. 7 a unmodified. B (of a
drink) undiluted. 8 colloq. A (of a person etc.) Conventional, respectable. B
heterosexual. 9 direct, undeviating. —n. 1 straight part, esp. The concluding
stretch of a racetrack. 2 straight condition. 3 sequence of five cards in poker. 4
colloq. Conventional person; heterosexual. —adv. 1 in a straight line; direct. 2 in
the right direction. 3 correctly. go straight (of a criminal) become honest.
Straight away immediately. Straight off colloq. Without hesitation. straightish
adj. Straightness n. [originally a past part. Of *stretch]
Straighten v. 1 (often foll. By out) make or become straight. 2 (foll. By up) stand
erect after bending.
Strain1 —v. 1 stretch tightly; make or become taut or tense. 2 injure by overuse
or excessive demands. 3 exercise (oneself, one’s senses, a thing, etc.) Intensely;
press to extremes. 4 strive intensively. 5 (foll. By at) tug, pull. 6 distort from the
true intention or meaning. 7 a clear (a liquid) of solid matter by passing it
through a sieve etc. B (foll. By out) filter (solids) out from a liquid. —n. 1 a act
of straining. B force exerted in this. 2 injury caused by straining a muscle etc. 3
severe mental or physical demand or exertion (suffering from strain). 4 snatch of
music or poetry. 5 tone or tendency in speech or writing (more in the same
strain). [french estrei(g)n-from latin stringo]
Strait n. 1 (in sing. Or pl.) Narrow channel connecting two large bodies of water.
2 (usu. In pl.) Difficulty or distress. [french estreit from latin strictus narrow]
Strait-jacket —n. 1 strong garment with long sleeves for confining a violent
prisoner etc. 2 restrictive measures. —v. (-t-) 1 restrain with a strait-jacket. 2
severely restrict.
Strand1 —v. 1 run aground. 2 (as stranded adj.) In difficulties, esp. Without
money or transport. —n. Foreshore; beach. [old english]
Strand2 n. 1 each of the twisted threads or wires making a rope or cable etc. 2
single thread or strip of fibre. 3 lock of hair. 4 element; component. [origin
unknown]
Strap —n. 1 strip of leather etc., often with a buckle, for holding things together
etc. 2 narrow strip of fabric worn over the shoulders as part of a garment. 3 loop
for grasping to steady oneself in a moving vehicle. 4 (the strap) punishment by
beating with a leather strap. —v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. By down, up, etc.) Secure
or bind with a strap. 2 beat with a strap. strapless adj. [dial., = *strop]
Strategy n. (pl. -ies) 1 long-term plan or policy (economic strategy). 2 art of war.
3 art of moving troops, ships, aircraft, etc. Into favourable positions. strategist n.
Strathspey n. 1 slow scottish dance. 2 music for this. [strathspey, valley of the
river spey]
Stratify v. (-ies, -ied) (esp. As stratified adj.) Arrange in strata or grades etc.
stratification n. [french: related to *stratum]
Stratigraphy n. Geol. & archaeol. 1 relative position of strata. 2 the study of this.
stratigraphic adj. [from *stratum]
Stratum n. (pl. Strata) 1 layer or set of layers of any deposited substance, esp. Of
rock. 2 atmospheric layer. 3 social class. [latin sterno strew]
Straw n. 1 dry cut stalks of grain as fodder or material for bedding, packing, etc.
2 single stalk of straw. 3 thin tube for sucking drink through. 4 insignificant
thing. 5 pale yellow colour. clutch at straws try any remedy in desperation. Straw
in the wind indication of future developments. [old english]
Strawberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 pulpy red fruit with a seed-studded surface. 2 plant with
runners and white flowers bearing this. [old english: related to *straw, for
unknown reason]
Stray —v. 1 wander from the right place or from one’s companions; go astray. 2
deviate morally or mentally. —n. Strayed person, animal, or thing. —adj. 1
strayed, lost. 2 isolated, occasional. 3 physics wasted or unwanted. [anglo-french
strey: related to *astray]
Streak —n. 1 long thin usu. Irregular line or band, esp. Of colour. 2 strain in a
person’s character. 3 spell or series (winning streak). —v. 1 mark with streaks. 2
move very rapidly. 3 colloq. Run naked in public. streaker n. [old english, = pen-
stroke]
Streaky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 full of streaks. 2 (of bacon) with streaks of fat.
Stream —n. 1 flowing body of water, esp. A small river. 2 flow of a fluid or of a
mass of people. 3 current or direction in which things are moving or tending
(against the stream). 4 group of schoolchildren of similar ability taught together.
(against the stream). 4 group of schoolchildren of similar ability taught together.
—v. 1 move as a stream. 2 run with liquid. 3 be blown in the wind. 4 emit a
stream of (blood etc.). 5 arrange (schoolchildren) in streams. on stream in
operation or production.
Streamer n. 1 long narrow strip of ribbon or paper. 2 long narrow flag. 3 banner
headline.
Streamline v. (-ning) 1 give (a vehicle etc.) The form which presents the least
resistance to motion. 2 make simple or more efficient.
Street n. 1 a public road in a city, town, or village. B this with the houses etc. On
each side. 2 people who live or work in a particular street. on the streets living
by prostitution. Streets ahead (often foll. By of) colloq. Much superior (to). Up
(or right up) one’s street colloq. What one likes, knows about, etc. [old english]
Streetcar n. Us tram.
Street credibility n. (also street cred) slang familiarity with a fashionable urban
subculture.
Stretcher n. 1 two poles with canvas etc. Between, for carrying a person in a
lying position. 2 brick etc. Laid along the face of a wall.
Strew v. (past part. Strewn or strewed) 1 scatter or spread about over a surface. 2
(usu. Foll. By with) spread (a surface) with scattered things. [old english: related
to *straw]
Striate —adj. (also striated) marked with striae. —v. (-ting) mark with slight
ridges. striation n.
Stricken adj. Overcome with illness or misfortune etc. [archaic past part. Of
*strike]
Stricture n. (usu. In pl.; often foll. By on, upon) critical or censorious remark.
[latin: related to *strict]
[latin: related to *strict]
Stride —v. (-ding; past strode; past part. Stridden) 1 walk with long firm steps. 2
cross with one step. 3 bestride. —n. 1 a single long step. B length of this. 2 gait
as determined by the length of stride. 3 (usu. In pl.) Progress (great strides). 4
steady progress (get into one’s stride). take in one’s stride manage easily. [old
english]
Strident adj. Loud and harsh. stridency n. Stridently adv. [latin strido creak]
Strike —v. (-king; past struck; past part. Struck or archaic stricken) 1 deliver (a
blow) or inflict a blow on; hit. 2 come or bring sharply into contact with (ship
struck a rock). 3 propel or divert with a blow. 4 (cause to) penetrate (struck
terror into him). 5 ignite (a match) or produce (sparks etc.) By friction. 6 make (a
coin) by stamping. 7 produce (a musical note) by striking. 8 a (also absol.) (of a
clock) indicate (the time) with a chime etc. B (of time) be so indicated. 9 a attack
suddenly. B (of a disease) afflict. 10 cause to become suddenly (struck dumb).
11 reach or achieve (strike a balance). 12 agree on (a bargain). 13 assume (an
attitude) suddenly and dramatically. 14 discover or find (oil etc.) By drilling etc.
15 occur to or appear to (strikes me as silly). 16 (of employees) engage in a
strike. 17 lower or take down (a flag or tent etc.). 18 take a specified direction.
19 (also absol.) Secure a hook in the mouth of (a fish) by jerking the tackle. —n.
1 act of striking. 2 a organized refusal to work until a grievance is remedied. B
similar refusal to participate. 3 sudden find or success. 4 attack, esp. From the
air. on strike taking part in an industrial etc. Strike. Strike home 1 deal an
effective blow. 2 have the intended effect. Strike off 1 remove with a stroke. 2
delete (a name etc.) From a list, esp. A professional register. Strike out 1 hit out.
2 act vigorously. 3 delete (an item or name etc.). 4 set off (struck out eastwards).
Strike up 1 start (an acquaintance, conversation, etc.), esp. Casually. 2 (also
absol.) Begin playing (a tune etc.). Struck on colloq. Infatuated with. [old
english, = go, stroke]
String —n. 1 twine or narrow cord. 2 piece of this or of similar material used for
tying or holding together, pulling, forming the head of a racket, etc. 3 length of
catgut or wire etc. On a musical instrument, producing a note by vibration. 4 a
(in pl.) Stringed instruments in an orchestra etc. B (attrib.) Of stringed
instruments (string quartet). 5 (in pl.) Condition or complication (no strings
attached). 6 set of things strung together; series or line. 7 tough side of a bean-
pod etc. —v. (past and past part. Strung) 1 fit (a racket, violin, archer’s bow,
etc.) With a string or strings, or (a violin etc. Bow) with horsehairs etc. 2 tie with
string. 3 thread on a string. 4 arrange in or as a string. 5 remove the strings from
(a bean). on a string under one’s control. String along colloq. 1 deceive. 2 (often
foll. By with) keep company (with). String out extend; prolong. String up 1 hang
up on strings etc. 2 kill by hanging. 3 (usu. As strung up adj.) Make tense. [old
english]
Stringent adj. (of rules etc.) Strict, precise; leaving no loophole for discretion.
stringency n. Stringently adv. [latin: related to *strict]
Strip1 —v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. By of) remove the clothes or covering from. 2
(often foll. By off) undress oneself. 3 (often foll. By of) deprive (a person) of
property or titles. 4 leave bare. 5 (often foll. By down) remove the accessory
fittings of or take apart (a machine etc.). 6 damage the thread of (a screw) or the
teeth of (a gearwheel). 7 remove (paint) or remove paint from (a surface) with
solvent. 8 (often foll. By from) pull (a covering etc.) Off (stripped the masks
from their faces). —n. 1 act of stripping, esp. In striptease. 2 colloq. Distinctive
outfit worn by a sports team. [old english]
Strip2 n. Long narrow piece. tear a person off a strip colloq. Rebuke a person.
[low german strippe strap]
Stripe n. 1 long narrow band or strip differing in colour or texture from the
surface on either side of it. 2 mil. Chevron etc. Denoting military rank. [perhaps
from low german or dutch]
Strip-search —n. Search involving the removal of all a person’s clothes. —v.
Search in this way.
Strive v. (-ving; past strove; past part. Striven) 1 try hard (strive to succeed). 2
(often foll. By with, against) struggle. [french estriver]
Stroke —n. 1 act of striking; blow, hit. 2 sudden disabling attack caused esp. By
thrombosis; apoplexy. 3 a action or movement, esp. As one of a series. B
slightest action (stroke of work). 4 single complete motion of a wing, oar, etc. 5
(in rowing) the mode or action of moving the oar (row a fast stroke). 6 whole
motion of a piston in either direction. 7 specified mode of swimming. 8 specially
successful or skilful effort (a stroke of diplomacy).
Stroll —v. Walk in a leisurely way. —n. Short leisurely walk. [probably from
german strolch vagabond]
Strongroom n. Room, esp. In a bank, for keeping valuables safe from fire and
theft.
Strop —n. Device, esp. A strip of leather, for sharpening razors. —v. (-pp-)
sharpen on a strop. [low german or dutch]
Stroppy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Bad-tempered; awkward to deal with. [origin
uncertain]
Strudel n. Thin leaved pastry rolled round a filling and baked. [german]
Struggle —v. (-ling) 1 violently try to get free of restraint. 2 (often foll. By for,
or to + infin.) Try hard under difficulties (struggled for power; struggled to win).
3 (foll. By with, against) contend; fight. 4 (foll. By along, up, etc.) Progress with
difficulty. 5 (esp. As struggling adj.) Have difficulty in gaining recognition or a
living (struggling artist). —n. 1 act or spell of struggling. 2 hard or confused
contest. [origin uncertain]
Strum —v. (-mm-) 1 (often foll. By on; also absol.) Play on (a guitar, piano,
etc.), esp. Carelessly or unskilfully. 2 play (a tune etc.) In this way. —n. Sound
or spell of strumming. [imitative: cf. *thrum1]
Stubble n. 1 stalks of corn etc. Left in the ground after the harvest. 2 short stiff
hair or bristles. stubbly adj. [latin stupula]
Stucco —n. (pl. -es) plaster or cement for coating walls or moulding into
decorations. —v. (-es, -ed) coat with stucco. [italian]
Stud1 —n. 1 large-headed projecting nail, boss, or knob, esp. For ornament. 2
double button, esp. For use with two buttonholes in a shirt-front. —v. (-dd-) 1 set
with or as with studs. 2 (as studded adj.) (foll. By with) thickly set or strewn
with. [old english]
Stud2 n. 1 a number of horses kept for breeding etc. B place where these are
kept. 2 stallion. 3 colloq. Young man, esp. One noted for sexual prowess. 4 (in
full stud poker) form of poker with betting after the dealing of cards face up. at
stud (of a stallion) hired out for breeding. [old english]
Studio n. (pl. -s) 1 workroom of a painter, photographer, etc. 2 place for making
films, recordings, or broadcast programmes. [italian]
Study —n. (pl. -ies) 1 acquisition of knowledge, esp. From books. 2 (in pl.)
Pursuit of academic knowledge. 3 private room used for reading, writing, etc. 4
piece of work, esp. A drawing, done for practice or as an experiment. 5 portrayal
in literature etc. Of behaviour or character etc. 6 musical composition designed
to develop a player’s skill. 7 thing worth observing (his face was a study). 8
thing that is or deserves to be investigated. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make a study of;
investigate (a subject) (study law). 2 (often foll. By for) apply oneself to study. 3
scrutinize closely (a visible object). 4 learn (one’s role etc.). 5 take pains to
achieve (a result) or pay regard to (a subject or principle etc.). 6 (as studied adj.)
Deliberate, affected (studied politeness). [latin studium]
Stuffing n. 1 padding for cushions etc. 2 mixture used to stuff food, esp. Before
cooking.
Stuffy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a room etc.) Lacking fresh air. 2 dull or
uninteresting. 3 (of the nose etc.) Stuffed up. 4 dull and conventional. stuffily
adv. Stuffiness n.
Stumble —v. (-ling) 1 involuntarily lurch forward or almost fall. 2 (often foll.
By along) walk with repeated stumbles. 3 speak haltingly. 4 (foll. By on, upon,
across) find by chance. —n. Act of stumbling. [related to *stammer]
Stumbling-block n. Obstacle.
Stump —n. 1 part of a cut or fallen tree still in the ground. 2 similar part (e.g. Of
a branch or limb) cut off or worn down. 3 cricket each of the three uprights of a
wicket. 4 (in pl.) Joc. Legs. —v. 1 (of a question etc.) Be too hard for; baffle. 2
(as stumped adj.) At a loss, baffled. 3 cricket put (a batsman) out by touching the
stumps with the ball while he is out of the crease. 4 walk stiffly or noisily. 5
(also absol.) Us traverse (a district) making political speeches. stump up colloq.
Pay or produce (the money required). [low german or dutch]
Stunt1 v. Retard the growth or development of. [obsolete stunt foolish, short]
Stunt2 n. 1 something unusual done for publicity. 2 trick or daring feat. [origin
unknown]
Sturdy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 robust; strongly built. 2 vigorous (sturdy resistance).
sturdily adv. Sturdiness n. [french esturdi]
Sturgeon n. (pl. Same or -s) large sharklike fish yielding caviare. [anglo-french
from germanic]
Sty2 n. (also stye) (pl. Sties or styes) inflamed swelling on the edge of an eyelid.
[old english]
Sty2 n. (also stye) (pl. Sties or styes) inflamed swelling on the edge of an eyelid.
[old english]
Stygian adj. Literary dark, gloomy. [literally = of the styx, a river round hades in
greek mythology]
Style —n. 1 kind or sort, esp. In regard to appearance and form (elegant style of
house). 2 manner of writing, speaking, or performing. 3 distinctive manner of a
person, artistic school, or period. 4 correct way of designating a person or thing.
5 superior quality or manner (do it in style). 6 fashion in dress etc. 7 pointed tool
for scratching or engraving. 8 bot. Narrow extension of the ovary supporting the
stigma. —v. (-ling) 1 design or make etc. In a particular (esp. Fashionable) style.
2 designate in a specified way. [latin stilus]
Stymie (also stimy) —n. (pl. -ies) 1 golf situation where an opponent’s ball lies
between one’s ball and the hole. 2 difficult situation. —v. (-mies, -mied, -mying
or -mieing) 1 obstruct; thwart. 2 golf block with a stymie. [origin unknown]
Suave adj. Smooth; polite; sophisticated. suavely adv. Suavity n. [latin suavis]
Subaltern n. Officer below the rank of captain, esp. A second lieutenant. [latin:
related to *alternate]
Subconscious —adj. Of the part of the mind which is not fully conscious but
influences actions etc. —n. This part of the mind. subconsciously adv.
Sub-editor n. 1 assistant editor. 2 person who edits material for printing. sub-edit
v. (-t-).
Subfusc —adj. Formal dull; dusky. —n. Formal clothing at some universities.
Subfusc —adj. Formal dull; dusky. —n. Formal clothing at some universities.
[latin fuscus dark brown]
Subjective adj. 1 (of art, written history, an opinion, etc.) Not impartial or literal;
personal. 2 esp. Philos. Of the individual consciousness or perception;
imaginary, partial, or distorted. 3 gram. Of the subject. subjectively adv.
Subjectivity n. [latin: related to *subject]
Subjoin v. Add (an illustration, anecdote, etc.) At the end. [latin subjungo -junct-
]
Sub judice adj. Law under judicial consideration and therefore prohibited from
public discussion elsewhere. [latin]
Subjunctive gram. —adj. (of a mood) expressing what is imagined, wished, or
possible (e.g. If i were you; be that as it may). —n. This mood or form. [latin:
related to *subjoin]
Sublet —n. = sublease n. —v. (-tt-; past and past part. -let) = sublease v.
Sublimate —v. (-ting) 1 divert (esp. Sexual energy) into socially more
acceptable activity. 2 convert (a substance) from the solid state directly to
vapour by heat, and usu. Allow it to solidify again. 3 refine; purify; idealize. —
n. Sublimated substance. sublimation n. [latin: related to *sublime]
Sublime —adj. (sublimer, sublimest) 1 of the most exalted or noble kind; awe-
inspiring. 2 arrogantly unruffled (sublime indifference). —v. 1 = *sublimate v. 2.
2 purify or elevate by or as if by sublimation; make sublime. 3 become pure (as
if) by sublimation. sublimely adv. Sublimity n. [latin sublimis]
Subliminal adj. Psychol. (of a stimulus etc.) Below the threshold of sensation or
consciousness. subliminally adv. [latin limen -min-threshold]
Submarine —n. Vessel, esp. An armed warship, capable of operating under
water. —attrib. Adj. Existing, occurring, done, or used under the sea. submariner
n.
Submerge v. (-ging) 1 place, go, or dive under water. 2 inundate with work,
problems, etc. submergence n. Submersion n. [latin mergo mers-dip]
Submersible —n. Submarine operating under water for short periods. —adj.
Capable of submerging.
Submit v. (-tt-) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) a cease resistance; yield. B refl. Surrender
(oneself) to the control of another etc. 2 present for consideration. 3 (usu. Foll.
By to) subject (a person or thing) to a process, treatment, etc. [latin mitto miss-
send]
Subordinate —adj. (usu. Foll. By to) of inferior importance or rank; secondary,
subservient. —n. Person working under another. —v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By to)
make or treat as subordinate. subordination n. [latin: related to *ordain]
Suborn v. Induce by bribery etc. To commit perjury etc. [latin orno equip]
Subpoena —n. Writ ordering a person to attend a lawcourt. —v. (past and past
part. -naed or -na’d) serve a subpoena on. [latin, = under penalty]
Sub rosa adj. & adv. In secrecy or confidence. [latin, = under the rose]
Subscribe v. (-bing) 1 (usu. Foll. By to, for) a pay (a specified sum), esp.
Regularly, for membership of an organization, receipt of a publication, etc. B
contribute money to a fund, for a cause, etc. 2 (usu. Foll. By to) agree with an
opinion etc. (i subscribe to that). subscribe to arrange to receive (a periodical
etc.) Regularly. [latin scribo script-write]
Subscript —adj. Written or printed below the line. —n. Subscript number etc.
Subservient adj. 1 servile. 2 (usu. Foll. By to) instrumental. 3 (usu. Foll. By to)
subordinate. subservience n. [latin subservio]
Subset n. Set of which all the elements are contained in another set.
Subsidize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 pay a subsidy to. 2 partially pay for by
subsidy.
Subsidy n. (pl. -ies) 1 money granted esp. By the state to keep down the price of
commodities etc. 2 any monetary grant. [latin subsidium help]
Subsist v. 1 (often foll. By on) keep oneself alive; be kept alive. 2 remain in
being; exist. [latin subsisto]
Substantive —adj. 1 genuine, actual, real. 2 not slight; substantial. —n. Gram. =
*noun. substantively adv.
Substitute —n. 1 (also attrib.) Person or thing acting or used in place of another.
2 artificial alternative to a food etc. —v. (-ting) (often foll. By for) (cause to) act
as a substitute. substitution n. [latin substituo -tut-]
Subsume v. (-ming) (usu. Foll. By under) include (an instance, idea, category,
etc.) In a rule, class, etc. [latin sumo take]
Subtenant n. Person renting a room etc. From its tenant. subtenancy n. (pl. -ies).
Subtend v. (of a line) be opposite (an angle or arc). [latin: related to *tend1]
Subtle adj. (subtler, subtlest) 1 elusive, mysterious; hard to grasp. 2 (of scent,
colour, etc.) Faint, delicate. 3 a perceptive (subtle intellect). B ingenious (subtle
device). subtlety n. (pl. -ies). Subtly adv. [latin subtilis]
Suburbia n. Often derog. Suburbs, their inhabitants, and their way of life.
Succinct adj. Brief; concise. succinctly adv. Succinctness n. [latin cingo cinct-
gird]
Succor (brit. Succour) —n. Aid, esp. In time of need. —v. Give succour to. [latin
succurro run to help]
Succour (us succor) —n. Aid, esp. In time of need. —v. Give succour to. [latin
Succour (us succor) —n. Aid, esp. In time of need. —v. Give succour to. [latin
succurro run to help]
Succubus n. (pl. -buses or -bi) female demon formerly believed to have sexual
intercourse with sleeping men. [latin, = prostitute]
Succulent —adj. 1 juicy; palatable. 2 bot. (of a plant, its leaves, or stems) thick
and fleshy. —n. Bot. Succulent plant. succulence n. [latin succus juice]
Such —adj. 1 (often foll. By as) of the kind or degree indicated (such people;
people such as these). 2 so great or extreme (not such a fool as that). 3 of a more
than normal kind or degree (such awful food). —pron. Such a person or persons;
such a thing or things. as such as being what has been indicated or named; in
itself (there is no theatre as such). Such as for example. [old english, = so like]
Suchlike colloq. —attrib. Adj. Of such a kind. —n. Things, people, etc. Of such
a kind.
Suck —v. 1 draw (a fluid) into the mouth by suction. 2 (also absol.) Draw fluid
from (a thing) in this way. 3 roll the tongue round (a sweet etc.). 4 make a
sucking action or sound. 5 (usu. Foll. By down, in) engulf or drown in a sucking
movement. —n. Act or period of sucking. suck dry exhaust the contents of by
movement. —n. Act or period of sucking. suck dry exhaust the contents of by
sucking. Suck in 1 absorb. 2 involve (a person) esp. Against his or her will. Suck
up 1 (often foll. By to) colloq. Behave obsequiously. 2 absorb. [old english]
Suckle v. (-ling) 1 feed (young) from the breast or udder. 2 feed by sucking the
breast etc.
Sucrose n. Sugar from sugar cane, sugar beet, etc. [french sucre *sugar]
Sudden death n. Colloq. Decision in a tied game etc. Dependent on one move,
card, etc.
Sudorific —adj. Causing sweating. —n. Sudorific drug. [latin sudor sweat]
Suds n.pl. Froth of soap and water. sudsy adj. [low german sudde or dutch sudse
marsh, bog]
Sue v. (sues, sued, suing) 1 (also absol.) Begin a law suit against. 2 (often foll.
By to, for) make application to a lawcourt for redress. 3 (often foll. By to, for)
make entreaty to a person for a favour. [anglo-french suer from latin sequor
follow]
Suede n. (often attrib.) 1 leather with the flesh side rubbed to a nap. 2 cloth
imitating it. [french, = sweden]
Suet n. Hard white fat on the kidneys or loins of oxen, sheep, etc. suety adj.
[anglo-french seu, from latin sebum]
Suffix —n. Letter(s) added at the end of a word to form a derivative. —v.
Append, esp. As a suffix. [latin figo fix-fasten]
Suffragette n. Hist. Woman seeking suffrage by organized protest.
Suffuse v. (-sing) (of colour, moisture, etc.) Spread throughout from within.
suffusion n. [latin suffundo pour over]
Sugar —n. 1 sweet crystalline substance esp. From sugar cane and sugar beet,
used in cookery etc.; sucrose. 2 chem. Soluble usu. Sweet crystalline
carbohydrate, e.g. Glucose. 3 esp. Us colloq. Darling (as a term of address). —v.
Sweeten or coat with sugar. [french sukere, from arabic sukkar]
Suggest v. 1 (often foll. By that) propose (a theory, plan, etc.). 2 a evoke (an idea
etc.). B hint at. suggest itself (of an idea etc.) Come into the mind. [latin suggero
-gest-]
Suggestive adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By of) hinting (at). 2 (of a remark, joke, etc.)
Indecent. suggestively adv.
Suit —n. 1 set of matching clothes, usu. A jacket and trousers or skirt. 2 (esp. In
comb.) Clothes for a special purpose (swimsuit). 3 any of the four sets (spades,
hearts, diamonds, clubs) making up a pack of cards. 4 lawsuit. 5 a petition, esp.
To a person in authority. B archaic courting a woman (paid suit to her). —v. 1
go well with (a person’s appearance etc.). 2 (also absol.) Meet the demands or
requirements of; satisfy; agree with. 3 make fitting; accommodate; adapt. 4 (as
suited adj.) Appropriate; well-fitted (not suited to be a nurse). suit oneself do as
one chooses. [anglo-french siute]
Suitable adj. (usu. Foll. By to, for) well-fitted; appropriate. suitability n. Suitably
adv.
Suitcase n. Case for carrying clothes etc., with a handle and a flat hinged lid.
Suite n. 1 set, esp. Of rooms in a hotel etc. Or a sofa and armchairs. 2 mus. Set
of instrumental pieces performed as a unit. [french: related to *suit]
Sulfa n. (brit. Sulpha) any of various sulphonamides (often attrib.: sulpha drug).
[abbreviation]
Sulfuric adj. (brit. Sulphuric) chem. Containing sulphur with a valency of six.
Sulk —v. Be sulky. —n. (also in pl., prec. By the) period of sullen silence.
[perhaps a back-formation from *sulky]
Sulky adj. (-ier, -iest) sullen or silent, esp. From resentment or bad temper.
sulkily adv. Sulkiness n. [perhaps from obsolete sulke hard to dispose of]
Sullen adj. Passively resentful, sulky, morose. sullenly adv. Sullenness n. [anglo-
Sullen adj. Passively resentful, sulky, morose. sullenly adv. Sullenness n. [anglo-
french sol *sole3]
Sully v. (-ies, -ied) disgrace or tarnish (a reputation etc.). [french souiller: related
to *soil2]
Sulpha n. (us sulfa) any of various sulphonamides (often attrib.: sulpha drug).
[abbreviation]
Sulphur dioxide n. Colourless pungent gas formed by burning sulphur in air and
dissolving it in water.
Sulphuric adj. (us sulfuric) chem. Containing sulphur with a valency of six.
Sultry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of weather etc.) Hot and close. 2 (of a person etc.)
Passionate, sensual. sultrily adv. Sultriness n. [obsolete sulter (v.): related to
*swelter]
Sum —n. 1 total resulting from addition. 2 amount of money (a large sum). 3 a
arithmetical problem. B (esp. Pl.) Colloq. Arithmetic work, esp. Elementary. —
v. (-mm-) find the sum of. in sum in brief. Sum up 1 (esp. Of a judge) give a
summing-up. 2 form or express an opinion of (a person, situation, etc.). 3
summing-up. 2 form or express an opinion of (a person, situation, etc.). 3
summarize. [latin summa]
Sumac n. (also sumach) 1 shrub with reddish conical fruits used as a spice. 2
dried and ground leaves of this used in tanning and dyeing. [french from arabic]
Summary —n. (pl. -ies) brief account. —adj. Without details or formalities;
brief. summarily adv. [latin: related to *sum]
Summer n. 1 (often attrib.) Warmest season of the year. 2 (often foll. By of)
mature stage of life etc. summery adj. [old english]
Summertime n. Season or period of summer.
Summer time n. Period from march to october when clocks are advanced an
hour.
Summit n. 1 highest point, top. 2 highest degree of power, ambition, etc. 3 (in
full summit meeting, talks, etc.) Conference of heads of government. [latin
summus highest]
Sumptuary adj. Law regulating (esp. Private) expenditure. [latin sumptus cost]
Sun —n. 1 a the star round which the earth orbits and from which it receives
light and warmth. B this light or warmth. 2 any star. —v. (-nn-) refl. Bask in the
sun. under the sun anywhere in the world. sunless adj. [old english]
Sunbathe v. (-thing) bask in the sun, esp. To tan the body. sunbather n.
Sunbed n. 1 long lightweight, usu. Folding, chair for sunbathing. 2 bed for lying
on under a sun-lamp.
Sunburn n. Inflammation and tanning of the skin from exposure to the sun.
sunburnt adj. (also sunburned).
Sundae n. Ice-cream with fruit, nuts, syrup, etc. [perhaps from *sunday]
Sunday —n. 1 first day of the week, a christian holiday and day of worship. 2
colloq. Newspaper published on sundays. —adv. Colloq. 1 on sunday. 2
(sundays) on sundays; each sunday. [old english]
Sunday best n. Joc. Person’s best clothes, esp. For sunday use.
Sundown n. Sunset.
Sundry —adj. Various; several. —n. (pl. -ies) (in pl.) Items or oddments not
mentioned individually. [old english: related to *sunder]
Sunglasses n.pl. Glasses tinted to protect the eyes from sunlight or glare.
Sunken adj. 1 at a lower level; submerged. 2 (of the cheeks etc.) Hollow,
depressed. [past part. Of *sink]
Sunni —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 one of the two main branches of islam, accepting
law based not only on the koran, but on muhammad’s words and acts. 2 adherent
of this branch. —adj. (also sunnite) of or relating to sunni. [arabic sunna = way,
of this branch. —adj. (also sunnite) of or relating to sunni. [arabic sunna = way,
rule]
Sunny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 bright with or warmed by sunlight. 2 cheery, bright.
sunnily adv. Sunniness n.
Sunshine n. 1 a light of the sun. B area lit by the sun. 2 fine weather. 3
cheerfulness. 4 colloq. Form of address.
Suntan n. Brownish skin colour caused by exposure to the sun. suntanned adj.
Sup1 —v. (-pp-) 1 take by sips or spoonfuls. 2 esp. N.engl. Colloq. Drink
(alcohol). —n. Sip of liquid. [old english]
Supercargo n. (pl. -es) officer in a merchant ship managing sales etc. Of cargo.
[spanish sobrecargo]
Supercharge v. (-ging) 1 (usu. Foll. By with) charge (the atmosphere etc.) With
energy, emotion, etc. 2 use a supercharger on.
Superego n. (pl. -s) psychol. Part of the mind that acts as a conscience and
responds to social rules.
Superfluous adj. More than is needed or wanted; useless. [latin fluo to flow]
Superimpose v. (-sing) (usu. Foll. By on) lay (a thing) on something else.
superimposition n.
Supernatural —adj. Not attributable to, or explicable by, the laws of nature;
magical; mystical. —n. (prec. By the) supernatural forces, effects, etc.
supernaturally adv.
Supersede v. (-ding) 1 take the place of. 2 replace with another person or thing.
supersession n. [latin supersedeo]
Supine —adj. 1 lying face upwards. 2 inert, indolent. —n. Latin verbal noun
used only in the accusative and ablative. [latin]
Supper n. 1 late evening snack. 2 evening meal, esp. Light. [french souper]
Supplant v. Take the place of, esp. By underhand means. [latin supplanto trip up]
Supply —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 provide (a thing needed). 2 (often foll. By with)
provide (a person etc. With a thing). 3 meet or make up for (a deficiency or need
etc.). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 providing of what is needed. 2 stock, store, amount, etc., of
something provided or obtainable. 3 (in pl.) Provisions and equipment for an
army, expedition, etc. 4 (often attrib.) Schoolteacher etc. Acting as a temporary
substitute for another. in short supply scarce. Supply and demand econ.
Quantities available and required, as factors regulating price.
Support —v. 1 carry all or part of the weight of; keep from falling, sinking, or
failing. 2 provide for (a family etc.). 3 strengthen, encourage. 4 bear out; tend to
substantiate. 5 give help or approval to (a person, team, sport, etc.); further (a
cause etc.). 6 speak in favour of (a resolution etc.). 7 (also absol.) Take a
secondary part to (a principal actor etc.); perform a secondary act to (the main
act) at a pop concert etc. —n. 1 supporting or being supported. 2 person or thing
that supports. 3 secondary act at a pop concert etc. in support of so as to support.
[latin porto carry]
Supporting film n. (also supporting picture etc.) Less important film in a cinema
programme.
Supposition n. 1 thing supposed. 2 act of supposing.
Supra-prefix above.
Surcease literary —n. Cessation. —v. (-sing) cease. [french sursis delayed,
omitted]
Surd math —adj. (of a number) irrational. —n. Surd number, esp. The root of an
integer. [latin, = deaf]
Sure —adj. 1 (often foll. By of or that) convinced. 2 having adequate reason for
a belief or assertion. 3 (foll. By of) confident in anticipation or knowledge of. 4
reliable or unfailing. 5 (foll. By to + infin.) Certain. 6 undoubtedly true or
truthful. —adv. Colloq. Certainly. be sure (in imper. Or infin.; foll. By that +
clause or to + infin.) Take care to; not fail to. For sure colloq. Certainly. Make
sure make or become certain; ensure. Sure enough colloq. In fact; certainly. To
be sure admittedly; indeed, certainly. sureness n. [french from latin securus]
Surf —n. Foam of the sea breaking on the shore or reefs. —v. Practise surfing.
surfer n. [origin unknown]
Surface —n. 1 a the outside of a thing. B area of this. 2 any of the limits of a
solid. 3 top of a liquid or of the ground etc. 4 outward or superficial aspect. 5
geom. Set of points with length and breadth but no thickness. 6 (attrib.) A of or
on the surface. B superficial. —v. (-cing) 1 give the required surface to (a road,
paper, etc.). 2 rise or bring to the surface. 3 become visible or known. 4 colloq.
Wake up; get up. come to the surface become perceptible. [french: related to
*sur-1]
Surfeit —n. 1 an excess, esp. In eating or drinking. 2 resulting fullness. —v. (-t-)
1 overfeed. 2 (foll. By with) (cause to) be wearied through excess. [french:
related to sur-1, feat]
Surge —n. 1 sudden rush. 2 heavy forward or upward motion. 3 sudden increase
in price, activity, etc. 4 sudden increase in voltage of an electric current. 5 swell
of the sea. —v. (-ging) 1 move suddenly and powerfully forwards. 2 (of an
electric current etc.) Increase suddenly. 3 (of the sea etc.) Swell. [latin surgo
rise]
Surmise —n. Conjecture. —v. (-sing) (often foll. By that) infer doubtfully;
guess; suppose. [latin supermitto -miss-accuse]
Surplus —n. 1 amount left over. 2 excess of revenue over expenditure. —adj.
Exceeding what is needed or used. [anglo-french]
Surrender —v. 1 hand over; relinquish. 2 submit, esp. To an enemy. 3 refl. (foll.
By to) yield to a habit, emotion, influence, etc. 4 give up rights under (a life-
insurance policy) in return for a smaller sum received immediately. 5 abandon
(hope etc.). —n. Act of surrendering. surrender to bail duly appear in court after
release on bail. [anglo-french: related to *sur-1]
Surrogate mother n. Woman who bears a child on behalf of another woman, usu.
By artificial insemination of her own egg by the other woman’s partner.
Surround —v. Come or be all round; encircle, enclose. —n. 1 border or edging,
esp. An area of floor between the walls and carpet of a room. 2 surrounding area
or substance. [latin: related to *sur-1, unda wave]
Surveyor n. Person who surveys land and buildings, esp. For a living.
Survive v. (-ving) 1 continue to live or exist. 2 live or exist longer than. 3 remain
Survive v. (-ving) 1 continue to live or exist. 2 live or exist longer than. 3 remain
alive after or continue to exist in spite of (a danger, accident, etc.). survivor n.
[anglo-french survivre from latin supervivo]
Sushi n. Japanese dish of balls of cold rice topped with raw fish etc. [japanese]
Suss v. Slang (also sus) (-ss-) (usu. Foll. By out) 1 investigate, inspect. 2 work
out; realize. on suss on suspicion (of having committed a crime). [abbreviation]
Sustain v. 1 support, bear the weight of, esp. For a long period. 2 encourage,
support. 3 (of food) nourish. 4 endure, stand. 5 suffer (defeat or injury etc.). 6 (of
a court etc.) Uphold or decide in favour of (an objection etc.). 7 corroborate (a
statement or charge). 8 maintain (effort etc.). sustainable adj. [latin sustineo keep
up]
Suture —n. 1 stitching of the edges of a wound or incision. 2 thread or wire used
for this. —v. (-ring) stitch (a wound or incision). [latin suo sut-sew]
Swab —n. 1 a absorbent pad used in surgery. B specimen of a secretion taken
for examination. 2 mop etc. For cleaning or mopping up. —v. (-bb-) 1 clean with
a swab. 2 (foll. By up) absorb (moisture) with a swab. 3 mop clean (a ship’s
deck) [dutch]
Swain n. 1 archaic country youth. 2 poet. Young lover or suitor. [old norse, =
lad]
Swallow1 —v. 1 cause or allow (food etc.) To pass down the throat. 2 perform
the muscular movement required to do this. 3 accept meekly or credulously. 4
the muscular movement required to do this. 3 accept meekly or credulously. 4
repress (a feeling etc.) (swallow one’s pride). 5 articulate (words etc.)
Indistinctly. 6 (often foll. By up) engulf or absorb; exhaust. —n. 1 act of
swallowing. 2 amount swallowed. [old english]
Swallow-dive n. & v. Dive with the arms outspread until close to the water.
Swamp —n. (area of) waterlogged ground. —v. 1 overwhelm, flood, or soak
with water. 2 overwhelm or make invisible etc. With an excess or large amount
of something. swampy adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin uncertain]
Swan —n. Large usu. White water-bird with a long flexible neck. —v. (-nn-)
(usu. Foll. By about, off, etc.) Colloq. Move or go aimlessly, casually, or with a
superior air. [old english]
Swank colloq. —n. Ostentation, swagger. —v. Show off. swanky adj (-ier, -iest).
[origin uncertain]
Swansong n. Person’s last work or act before death or retirement etc.
Swap (also swop) —v. (-pp-) exchange or barter. —n. 1 act of swapping. 2 thing
for swapping or swapped. [originally = ‘hit’, imitative]
Swarm1 —n. 1 cluster of bees leaving the hive with the queen to establish a new
colony. 2 large cluster of insects, birds, or people. 3 (in pl.; foll. By of) great
numbers. —v. 1 move in or form a swarm. 2 (foll. By with) (of a place) be
overrun, crowded, or infested with. [old english]
Swarm2 v. (foll. By up) climb (a rope or tree etc.) By clinging with the hands
and knees etc. [origin unknown]
Swarthy adj. (-ier, -iest) dark, dark-complexioned. [obsolete swarty from swart
black, from old english]
Swat —v. (-tt-) 1 crush (a fly etc.) With a sharp blow. 2 hit hard and abruptly. —
n. Swatting blow. [dial. Var. Of *squat]
Swath n. (also swathe) (pl. -s) 1 ridge of cut grass or corn etc. 2 space left clear
by a mower etc. 3 broad strip. [old english]
Swathe —v. (-thing) bind or wrap in bandages or garments etc. —n. Bandage or
wrapping. [old english]
Sway —v. 1 (cause to) lean or move unsteadily from side to side. 2 oscillate;
waver. 3 a control the motion or direction of. B influence; rule over. —n. 1 rule,
influence, or government (hold sway). 2 swaying motion. [origin uncertain]
Swear —v. (past swore; past part. Sworn) 1 a (often foll. By to + infin. Or that +
clause) state or promise solemnly or on oath. B (cause to) take (an oath) (swore
them to secrecy). 2 colloq. Insist (swore he was fit). 3 (often foll. By at) use
profane or obscene language. 4 (foll. By by) a appeal to as a witness in taking an
oath (swear by almighty god). B colloq. Have great confidence in (swears by
yoga). 5 (foll. By to; usu. In neg.) Say certainly (could not swear to it). —n.
Spell of swearing. swear blind colloq. Affirm emphatically. Swear in induct into
office etc. With an oath. Swear off colloq. Promise to abstain from (drink etc.).
[old english]
Sweat —n. 1 moisture exuded through the pores, esp. From heat or nervousness.
2 state or period of sweating. 3 colloq. State of anxiety (in a sweat). 4 colloq. A
drudgery, effort. B laborious task.
Sweat-band n. Band fitted inside a hat or worn round a wrist etc. To absorb
sweat.
Sweep —v. (past and past part. Swept) 1 clean or clear (a room or area etc.) (as)
with a broom. 2 (often foll. By up) clean a room etc. In this way. 3 (often foll.
By up) collect or remove (dirt etc.) By sweeping. 4 (foll. By aside, away, etc.) A
push (as) with a broom. B dismiss abruptly. 5 (foll. By along, down, etc.) Carry
or drive along with force. 6 (foll. By off, away, etc.) Remove or clear forcefully.
7 traverse swiftly or lightly. 8 impart a sweeping motion to. 9 swiftly cover or
affect. 10 a glide swiftly; speed along. B go majestically. 11 (of landscape etc.)
Be rolling or spacious. —n. 1 act or motion of sweeping. 2 curve in the road,
sweeping line of a hill, etc. 3 range or scope. 4 = *chimney-sweep. 5 sortie by
aircraft. 6 colloq. = *sweepstake. make a clean sweep of 1 completely abolish or
expel. 2 win all the prizes etc. In (a competition etc.). Sweep away abolish
swiftly. Sweep the board 1 win all the money at stake. 2 win all possible prizes
etc. Sweep under the carpet see *carpet. [old english]
Sweepstake n. 1 form of gambling in which all stakes are pooled and paid to the
winners. 2 race with betting of this kind. 3 prize(s) won in a sweepstake.
Sweet —adj. 1 tasting of sugar. 2 smelling pleasant like roses or perfume etc.;
fragrant. 3 (of sound etc.) Melodious or harmonious. 4 fresh; not salt, sour, or
bitter. 5 gratifying or attractive. 6 amiable, pleasant. 7 colloq. Pretty, charming. 8
(foll. By on) colloq. Fond of; in love with. —n. 1 small shaped piece of sweet
substance, usu. Made with sugar or chocolate. 2 sweet dish or course of a meal.
sweetish adj. Sweetly adv. [old english]
Sweet potato n. 1 tropical climbing plant with sweet tuberous roots used for
food. 2 root of this.
Sweet talk colloq. —n. Flattery, blandishment. —v. (sweet-talk) flatter in order
to persuade.
Swell —v. (past part. Swollen or swelled) 1 (cause to) grow bigger, louder, or
more intense. 2 (often foll. By up) rise or raise up from the surrounding surface.
3 (foll. By out) bulge. 4 (of the heart etc.) Feel full of joy, pride, relief, etc. 5
(foll. By with) be hardly able to restrain (pride etc.). —n. 1 act or state of
swelling. 2 heaving of the sea with unbreaking waves. 3 a crescendo. B
mechanism in an organ etc. For producing a crescendo or diminuendo. 4 colloq.
Dandy. 5 protuberance. —adj. Colloq. 1 esp. Us fine, excellent. 2 smart,
fashionable. have (or get) a swelled (or swollen) head be (or become) conceited.
[old english]
Swerve —v. (-ving) (cause to) change direction, esp. Abruptly. —n. Swerving
movement. [old english, = scour]
Swift —adj. 1 quick, rapid. 2 prompt. —n. Swift-flying migratory bird with long
wings. swiftly adv. Swiftness n. [old english]
Swig —v. (-gg-) colloq. Drink in large draughts. —n. Swallow of drink, esp.
Large. [origin unknown]
Swill —v. 1 (often foll. By out) rinse or flush. 2 drink greedily. —n. 1 act of
rinsing. 2 mainly liquid refuse as pig-food. [old english]
Swim —v. (-mm-; past swam; past part. Swum) 1 propel the body through water
with limbs, fins, or tail. 2 traverse (a stretch of water or distance) by swimming.
3 perform (a stroke) by swimming. 4 float on a liquid. 5 appear to undulate, reel,
or whirl. 6 feel dizzy (my head swam). 7 (foll. By in, with) be flooded. —n.
Period or act of swimming. in the swim colloq. Involved in or aware of what is
going on. swimmer n. [old english]
Swimming-costume n. = *bathing-costume.
Swindle —v. (-ling) (often foll. By out of) 1 cheat of money etc. 2 cheat a
person of (money etc.) (swindled £200 out of him). —n. 1 act of swindling. 2
fraudulent person or thing. swindler n. [back-formation from swindler from
german]
Swine n. (pl. Same) 1 formal or us pig. 2 colloq. (pl. Same or -s) a contemptible
person. B unpleasant or difficult thing. swinish adj. [old english]
Swing —v. (past and past part. Swung) 1 a (cause to) move with a to-and-fro or
curving motion, as of an object attached at one end and hanging free at the other;
sway. B hang so as to be free to swing. 2 oscillate or revolve. 3 move by
gripping something and leaping etc. (swung from tree to tree). 4 walk with a
swing. 5 (foll. By round) move to face the opposite direction. 6 change one’s
opinion or mood. 7 (foll. By at) attempt to hit. 8 (also swing it) play (music) with
a swing rhythm. 9 colloq. (of a party etc.) Be lively etc. 10 have a decisive
influence on (voting etc.). 11 colloq. Achieve, manage. 12 colloq. Be executed
by hanging. —n. 1 act, motion, or extent of swinging. 2 swinging or smooth gait,
rhythm, or action. 3 a seat slung by ropes etc. For swinging on or in. B period of
swinging on this. 4 a jazz or dance music with an easy flowing rhythm. B
rhythmic feeling or drive of this. 5 discernible change, esp. In votes or points
scored etc. swings and roundabouts situation affording equal gain and loss.
swinger n. [old english]
Sweet potato n. 1 tropical climbing plant with sweet tuberous roots used for
food. 2 root of this.
Sweet talk colloq. —n. Flattery, blandishment. —v. (sweet-talk) flatter in order
to persuade.
Swell —v. (past part. Swollen or swelled) 1 (cause to) grow bigger, louder, or
more intense. 2 (often foll. By up) rise or raise up from the surrounding surface.
3 (foll. By out) bulge. 4 (of the heart etc.) Feel full of joy, pride, relief, etc. 5
(foll. By with) be hardly able to restrain (pride etc.). —n. 1 act or state of
swelling. 2 heaving of the sea with unbreaking waves. 3 a crescendo. B
mechanism in an organ etc. For producing a crescendo or diminuendo. 4 colloq.
Dandy. 5 protuberance. —adj. Colloq. 1 esp. Us fine, excellent. 2 smart,
fashionable. have (or get) a swelled (or swollen) head be (or become) conceited.
[old english]
Swerve —v. (-ving) (cause to) change direction, esp. Abruptly. —n. Swerving
movement. [old english, = scour]
Swift —adj. 1 quick, rapid. 2 prompt. —n. Swift-flying migratory bird with long
wings. swiftly adv. Swiftness n. [old english]
Swig —v. (-gg-) colloq. Drink in large draughts. —n. Swallow of drink, esp.
Large. [origin unknown]
Swill —v. 1 (often foll. By out) rinse or flush. 2 drink greedily. —n. 1 act of
rinsing. 2 mainly liquid refuse as pig-food. [old english]
Swim —v. (-mm-; past swam; past part. Swum) 1 propel the body through water
Swim —v. (-mm-; past swam; past part. Swum) 1 propel the body through water
with limbs, fins, or tail. 2 traverse (a stretch of water or distance) by swimming.
3 perform (a stroke) by swimming. 4 float on a liquid. 5 appear to undulate, reel,
or whirl. 6 feel dizzy (my head swam). 7 (foll. By in, with) be flooded. —n.
Period or act of swimming. in the swim colloq. Involved in or aware of what is
going on. swimmer n. [old english]
Swimming-costume n. = *bathing-costume.
Swindle —v. (-ling) (often foll. By out of) 1 cheat of money etc. 2 cheat a
person of (money etc.) (swindled £200 out of him). —n. 1 act of swindling. 2
fraudulent person or thing. swindler n. [back-formation from swindler from
german]
Swine n. (pl. Same) 1 formal or us pig. 2 colloq. (pl. Same or -s) a contemptible
person. B unpleasant or difficult thing. swinish adj. [old english]
Swing —v. (past and past part. Swung) 1 a (cause to) move with a to-and-fro or
curving motion, as of an object attached at one end and hanging free at the other;
sway. B hang so as to be free to swing. 2 oscillate or revolve. 3 move by
gripping something and leaping etc. (swung from tree to tree). 4 walk with a
swing. 5 (foll. By round) move to face the opposite direction. 6 change one’s
opinion or mood. 7 (foll. By at) attempt to hit. 8 (also swing it) play (music) with
a swing rhythm. 9 colloq. (of a party etc.) Be lively etc. 10 have a decisive
influence on (voting etc.). 11 colloq. Achieve, manage. 12 colloq. Be executed
by hanging. —n. 1 act, motion, or extent of swinging. 2 swinging or smooth gait,
rhythm, or action. 3 a seat slung by ropes etc. For swinging on or in. B period of
swinging on this. 4 a jazz or dance music with an easy flowing rhythm. B
rhythmic feeling or drive of this. 5 discernible change, esp. In votes or points
scored etc. swings and roundabouts situation affording equal gain and loss.
swinger n. [old english]
Swipe colloq. —v. (-ping) 1 (often foll. By at) hit hard and recklessly. 2 steal. —
n. Reckless hard hit or attempted hit. [perhaps var. Of *sweep]
Swirl —v. Move, flow, or carry along with a whirling motion. —n. 1 swirling
motion. 2 twist or curl. swirly adj. [perhaps from low german or dutch]
Swish —v. 1 swing (a thing) audibly through the air, grass, etc. 2 move with or
make a swishing sound. —n. Swishing action or sound. —adj. Colloq. Smart,
fashionable. [imitative]
Swiss —adj. Of switzerland or its people. —n. (pl. Same) 1 native or national of
switzerland. 2 person of swiss descent. [french suisse]
Switch —n. 1 device for completing and breaking an electric circuit. 2 a transfer,
change-over, or deviation. B exchange. 3 flexible shoot cut from a tree. 4 light
tapering rod. 5 us railway points. —v. 1 (foll. By on, off) turn (an electrical
device) on or off. 2 change or transfer. 3 exchange. 4 whip or flick with a switch.
switch off colloq. Cease to pay attention. [low german]
Switchback n. 1 ride at a fair etc., with extremely steep ascents and descents. 2
(often attrib.) Such a railway or road.
Swivel —n. Coupling between two parts enabling one to revolve without turning
the other. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) turn on or as on a swivel. [old english]
Swizzle n. 1 colloq. Frothy mixed alcoholic drink esp. Of rum or gin and bitters.
2 slang = *swizz. [origin unknown]
Swoop —v. 1 (often foll. By down) descend rapidly like a bird of prey. 2 (often
foll. By on) make a sudden attack. —n. Swooping movement or action. [old
english]
Sword n. 1 weapon with a long blade and hilt with a handguard. 2 (prec. By the)
a war. B military power. put to the sword kill. [old english]
Sword dance n. Dance with the brandishing of swords or with swords laid on the
ground.
Swordfish n. (pl. Same or -es) large marine fish with swordlike upper jaw.
Sworn past part. Of *swear. —attrib. Adj. Bound (as) by an oath (sworn
enemies).
Swot colloq. —v. (-tt-) 1 study hard. 2 (usu. Foll. By up, up on) study (a subject)
hard or hurriedly. —n. Usu. Derog. Person who swots. [dial. Var. Of *sweat]
Syllable n. 1 unit of pronunciation forming the whole or part of a word and usu.
Syllable n. 1 unit of pronunciation forming the whole or part of a word and usu.
Having one vowel sound often with consonant(s) before or after (e.g. Water has
two, inferno three). 2 character(s) representing a syllable. 3 the least amount of
speech or writing. in words of one syllable plainly, bluntly. [greek sullabe]
Sylph n. 1 elemental spirit of the air. 2 slender graceful woman or girl. sylphlike
adj. [latin]
Sylvan adj. (also silvan) 1 a of the woods. B having woods. 2 rural. [latin silva a
wood]
Sympathize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (often foll. By with) 1 feel or express
sympathy. 2 agree. sympathizer n.
Sync (also synch) colloq. —n. Synchronization. —v. Synchronize. in (or out of)
sync (often foll. By with) according or agreeing well (or badly). [abbreviation]
Synchronous adj. (often foll. By with) existing or occurring at the same time.
Synonym n. Word or phrase that means the same as another (e.g. Shut and
close). [greek onoma name]
Synonymous adj. (often foll. By with) 1 having the same meaning. 2 suggestive
of; associated with (his name is synonymous with terror).
Synovia n. Physiol. Viscous fluid lubricating joints etc. synovial adj. [medieval
latin]
Syntax n. 1 grammatical arrangement of words. 2 rules or analysis of this.
syntactic adj. Syntactically adv. [greek, = arrangement]
Syringa n. 1 = mock orange. 2 lilac or similar related plant. [related to syringe]
Syringe —n. Device for sucking in and ejecting liquid in a fine stream. —v. (-
ging) sluice or spray with a syringe. [greek surigx pipe]
Syrup n. (us sirup) 1 a sweet sauce of sugar dissolved in boiling water. B similar
fluid as a drink, medicine, etc. 2 condensed sugar-cane juice; molasses, treacle. 3
excessive sweetness of manner or style. syrupy adj. [arabic sharab]
Systemic adj. 1 physiol. Of the whole body. 2 (of an insecticide etc.) Entering
the plant via the roots or shoots and freely transported within its tissues.
systemically adv.
T2 symb. Tritium.
Ta symb. Tantalum.
Tab1 —n. 1 small flap or strip of material attached for grasping, fastening, or
hanging up, or for identification. 2 us colloq. Bill (picked up the tab). 3
distinguishing mark on a staff officer’s collar. —v. (-bb-) provide with a tab or
tabs. keep tabs (or a tab) on colloq. 1 keep account of. 2 have under observation
or in check. [probably dial.]
Tabard n. 1 herald’s official coat emblazoned with royal arms. 2 woman’s or
girl’s sleeveless jerkin. 3 hist. Knight’s short emblazoned garment worn over
armour. [french]
Tabasco n. 1 pungent pepper. 2 (tabasco) propr. Sauce made from this. [tabasco
in mexico]
Tabby n. (pl. -ies) 1 grey or brownish cat with dark stripes. 2 a kind of watered
silk. [french from arabic]
Tabernacle n. 1 hist. Tent used as a sanctuary by the israelites during the exodus.
2 niche or receptacle, esp. For the eucharistic elements. 3 nonconformist
meeting-house. [latin: related to *tavern]
Tabla n. Pair of small drums played with the hands, esp. In indian music. [arabic,
= drum]
Table —n. 1 flat surface on a leg or legs, used for eating, working at, etc. 2 a
food provided in a household (keeps a good table). B group seated for dinner etc.
3 a set of facts or figures in columns etc. (table of contents). B matter contained
in this. C = *multiplication table. —v. (-ling) 1 bring forward for discussion etc.
At a meeting. 2 esp. Us postpone consideration of (a matter). at table taking a
meal at a table. On the table offered for discussion. Turn the tables (often foll.
By on) reverse circumstances to one’s advantage (against). Under the table
colloq. 1 very drunk.
Tablecloth n. Cloth spread over a table, esp. For meals.
Table d’hôte n. (often attrib.) Meal from a set menu at a fixed price. [french, =
host’s table]
Tablet n. 1 small solid dose of a medicine etc. 2 bar of soap etc. 3 flat slab of
esp. Stone, usu. Inscribed. 4 us writing-pad. [latin diminutive: related to *table]
Table tennis n. Indoor ball game played with small bats on a table divided by a
net.
Taboo (also tabu) —n. (pl. -s) 1 ritual isolation of a person or thing as sacred or
accursed. 2 prohibition imposed by social custom. —adj. Avoided or prohibited,
esp. By social custom (taboo words). —v. (-oos, -ooed or -us, -ued) 1 put under
taboo. 2 exclude or prohibit, esp. Socially. [tongan]
Tacho n. (pl. -s) colloq. = *tachometer. [abbreviation]
Tachograph n. Device in a vehicle recording speed and travel time. [greek takhos
speed]
Tacit adj. Understood or implied without being stated (tacit consent). tacitly adv.
[latin taceo be silent]
Tack1 —n. 1 small sharp broad-headed nail. 2 us drawing-pin. 3 long stitch for
joining fabrics etc. Lightly or temporarily together. 4 (in sailing) direction, or
temporary change of direction, esp. Taking advantage of a side wind (starboard
tack). 5 course of action or policy (change tack). 6 sticky condition of varnish
etc. —v. 1 (often foll. By down etc.) Fasten with tacks. 2 stitch lightly together.
3 (foll. By to, on, on to) add or append. 4 a change a ship’s course by turning its
head to the wind. B make a series of such tacks. [probably related to french tache
clasp, nail]
Tack3 n. Colloq. Cheap or shoddy material; tat, kitsch. [back formation from
*tacky2]
*tacky2]
Tackle —n. 1 equipment for a task or sport. 2 mechanism, esp. Of ropes, pulley-
blocks, hooks, etc., for lifting weights, managing sails, etc. 3 windlass with its
ropes and hooks. 4 act of tackling in football etc. —v. (-ling) 1 try to deal with (a
problem or difficulty). 2 grapple with (an opponent). 3 confront (a person) in
discussion or argument. 4 intercept or stop (a player running with the ball).
tackler n. [low german]
Tacky2 adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 in poor taste, cheap. 2 tatty, shabby. tackiness
n. [origin unknown]
Taco n. (pl. -s) mexican dish of meat etc. In a folded tortilla. [mexican spanish]
Tactical adj. 1 of tactics (tactical retreat). 2 (of bombing etc.) Done in direct
support of military or naval operations. 3 adroitly planning or adroitly planned.
support of military or naval operations. 3 adroitly planning or adroitly planned.
tactically adv.
Taffeta n. Fine lustrous silk or silklike fabric. [french or medieval latin from
persian]
Tag1 —n. 1 label, esp. On an object to show its address, price, etc. 2 metal etc.
Point on a shoelace etc. 3 loop or flap for handling or hanging a thing. 4 loose or
ragged end. 5 trite quotation or stock phrase. —v. (-gg-) 1 provide with a tag or
tags. 2 (often foll. By on, on to) join or attach. tag along (often foll. By with) go
along, accompany passively. [origin unknown]
Tag2 —n. Children’s chasing game. —v. (-gg-) touch in a game of tag. [origin
unknown]
T’ai chi n. (in full t’ai chi ch’uan) chinese martial art and system of callisthenics
with slow controlled movements. [chinese, = great ultimate boxing]
Tail1 —n. 1 hindmost part of an animal, esp. Extending beyond the body. 2 a
thing like a tail, esp. An extension at the rear. B rear of a procession etc. 3 rear
part of an aeroplane, vehicle, or rocket. 4 luminous trail following a comet. 5
inferior, weaker, or last part of anything. 6 part of a shirt or coat below the waist
at the back. 7 (in pl.) Colloq. A tailcoat. B evening dress including this. 8 (in pl.)
Reverse of a coin as a choice when tossing. 9 colloq. Person following another.
—v. 1 remove the stalks of (fruit). 2 (often foll. By after) colloq. Follow closely.
on a person’s tail closely following a person. Tail off (or away) gradually
decrease or diminish; end inconclusively. With one’s tail between one’s legs
dejected, humiliated. tailless adj. [old english]
Tail2 law —n. Limitation of ownership, esp. Of an estate limited to a person and
that person’s heirs. —adj. So limited (estate tail). in tail under such a limitation.
[french taillier cut: related to *tally]
Tailcoat n. Man’s coat with a long divided flap at the back, worn as part of
formal dress.
Tailor —n. Maker of clothes, esp. Men’s outer garments to measure. —v. 1
make (clothes) as a tailor. 2 make or adapt for a special purpose. 3 work as or be
a tailor. [anglo-french taillour: related to *tail2]
Tailpiece n. 1 rear appendage. 2 final part of a thing. 3 decoration in a blank
space at the end of a chapter etc.
Tailspin n. 1 spin by an aircraft with the tail spiralling. 2 state of chaos or panic.
Taint —n. 1 spot or trace of decay, infection, corruption, etc. 2 corrupt condition
or infection. —v. 1 affect with a taint; become tainted. 2 (foll. By with) affect
slightly. [latin: related to *tinge]
Take —v. (-king; past took; past part. Taken) 1 lay hold of; get into one’s hands.
2 acquire, capture, earn, or win. 3 get by purchase, hire, or formal agreement
(take lodgings; took a taxi). 4 (in a recipe) use. 5 regularly buy (a newspaper
etc.). 6 obtain after qualifying (take a degree). 7 occupy (take a chair). 8 make
use of (take the next turning on the left; take the bus). 9 consume (food or
medicine). 10 a be effective (inoculation did not take). B (of a plant, seed, etc.)
Begin to grow. 11 require or use up (will only take a minute). 12 carry or
accompany (take the book home; bus will take you). 13 remove; steal (someone
has taken my pen). 14 catch or be infected with (fire or fever etc.). 15 a
experience, seek, or be affected by (take fright; take pleasure). B exert (take no
notice). 16 find out and note (took his address; took her temperature). 17
understand; assume (i took you to mean yes). 18 treat, deal with, or regard in a
specified way (took it badly; took the corner too fast). 19 (foll. By for) regard as
being (do you take me for an idiot?). 20 a accept, receive (take the offer; take a
call; takes boarders). B hold (takes 3 pints). C submit to; tolerate (take a joke).
21 wear (takes size 10). 22 choose or assume (took a job; took the initiative). 23
derive (takes its name from the inventor). 24 (foll. By from) subtract (take 3
from 9). 25 perform or effect (take notes; take an oath; take a look). 26 occupy
or engage oneself in (take a rest). 27 conduct (took prayers). 28 teach, be taught,
or be examined in (a subject). 29 a make (a photograph). B photograph (a person
etc.). 30 (in imper.) Use as an example (take napoleon). 31 gram. Have or
require as part of a construction (this verb takes an object). 32 have sexual
intercourse with (a woman). 33 (in passive; foll. By by, with) be attracted or
charmed by. —n. 1 amount taken or caught at a time etc. 2 scene or film
sequence photographed continuously at one time. be taken ill become ill, esp.
Suddenly. Have what it takes colloq. Have the necessary qualities etc. For
success. Take account of see account. Take advantage of see advantage. Take
after resemble (a parent etc.). Take against begin to dislike. Take aim see *aim.
Take apart 1 dismantle. 2 colloq. Beat or defeat. 3 colloq. Criticize severely.
Take away 1 remove or carry elsewhere. 2 subtract. 3 buy (hot food etc.) For
eating elsewhere. Take back 1 retract (a statement). 2 convey to an original
position. 3 carry in thought to a past time. 4 a return (goods) to a shop. B (of a
shop) accept such goods. 5 accept (a person) back into one’s affections, into
employment, etc. Take the biscuit (or bun or cake) colloq. Be the most
remarkable. Take down 1 write down (spoken words). 2 remove or dismantle. 3
lower (a garment worn below the waist). Take effect see *effect. Take for
granted see grant. Take fright see fright. Take heart be encouraged. Take in 1
receive as a lodger etc. 2 undertake (work) at home. 3 make (a garment etc.)
Smaller. 4 understand; observe (did you take that in?). 5 cheat. 6 include. 7
colloq. Visit (a place) on the way to another (took in bath). 8 absorb into the
body. Take in hand 1 undertake; start doing or dealing with. 2 undertake to
control or reform (a person). Take into account see account. Take it 1 (often foll.
By that) assume. 2 colloq. Endure in a specified way (took it badly). Take it easy
see easy. Take it into one’s head see *head. Take it on one (or oneself) (foll. By
to + infin.) Venture or presume. Take it or leave it (esp. In imper.) Accept it or
not. Take it out of 1 exhaust the strength of. 2 have revenge on. Take it out on
relieve one’s frustration by treating aggressively.
Take-away —attrib. Adj. (of food) bought cooked for eating elsewhere. —n. 1
this food. 2 establishment selling this.
Taking —adj. Attractive, captivating. —n. (in pl.) Amount of money taken at a
show, in a shop, etc.
Talc n. 1 talcum powder. 2 magnesium silicate formed as soft flat plates, used as
a lubricator etc. [arabic from persian talk]
Talcum n. 1 = *talc 2. 2 (in full talcum powder) powdered talc for toilet use, usu.
Perfumed. [medieval latin: see *talc]
Talent n. 1 special aptitude or faculty (talent for music). 2 high mental ability. 3
a person or persons of talent. B colloq. Attractive members of the opposite sex
(plenty of local talent). 4 ancient esp. Greek weight and unit of currency.
talented adj. [greek talanton]
talented adj. [greek talanton]
Talisman n. (pl. -s) ring, stone, etc. Thought to have magic powers, esp. To bring
good luck. talismanic adj. [french and spanish from greek]
Talk —v. 1 (often foll. By to, with) converse or communicate verbally. 2 have
the power of speech. 3 (often foll. By about) a discuss; express; utter (talked
cricket; talking nonsense). B (in imper.) Colloq. As an emphatic statement (talk
about expense!). 4 use (a language) in speech (talking spanish). 5 (foll. By at)
address pompously. 6 (usu. Foll. By into, out of) bring into a specified condition
etc. By talking (talked himself hoarse; did you talk them into it?). 7 betray
secrets. 8 gossip (people will talk). 9 have influence (money talks). —n. 1
conversation, talking. 2 particular mode of speech (baby-talk). 3 informal
address or lecture. 4 a rumour or gossip (talk of a merger). B its theme (the talk
was all babies). 5 empty promises; boasting. 6 (often in pl.) Discussions or
negotiations. now you’re talking colloq. I like what you say, suggest, etc. Talk
back reply defiantly. Talk down to speak condescendingly to. Talk a person
down 1 silence by loudness or persistence. 2 bring (a pilot or aircraft) to landing
by radio. Talk of 1 discuss or mention. 2 (often foll. By verbal noun) express
some intention of (talked of moving to london). Talk out block (a bill in
parliament) by prolonging discussion to the time of adjournment. Talk over
discuss at length. Talk a person over (or round) gain agreement by talking. Talk
shop talk about one’s occupation etc. Talk to rebuke, scold. talker n. [from *tale
or *tell]
Tall —adj. 1 of more than average height. 2 of a specified height (about six feet
tall). 3 higher than the surrounding objects (tall building). —adv. As if tall;
proudly (sit tall). tallish adj. Tallness n. [old english, = swift]
Tallow n. Hard (esp. Animal) fat melted down to make candles, soap, etc.
tallowy adj. [low german]
Tally —n. (pl. -ies) 1 reckoning of a debt or score. 2 total score or amount. 3
mark registering the number of objects delivered or received. 4 hist. A piece of
notched wood for keeping account. B account kept thus. 5 identification ticket or
label. 6 corresponding thing, counterpart, or duplicate. —v. (-ies, -ied) (often
foll. By with) agree or correspond. [latin talea rod]
Tally-ho —int. Huntsman’s cry on sighting a fox. —n. (pl. -s) cry of this. —v. (-
hoes, -hoed) 1 utter a cry of ‘tally-ho’. 2 indicate (a fox) or urge (hounds) with
this cry. [cf. French taïaut]
Talmud n. Body of jewish civil and ceremonial law and legend. talmudic adj.
Talmudist n. [hebrew, = instruction]
Tamarind n. 1 tropical evergreen tree. 2 fruit pulp from this used as food and in
drinks. [arabic, = indian date]
Tamarisk n. Seashore shrub usu. With small pink or white flowers. [latin]
Tambourine n. Small shallow drum with jingling discs in its rim, shaken or
banged as an accompaniment. [french, diminutive of *tambour]
Tame —adj. 1 (of an animal) domesticated; not wild or shy. 2 insipid; dull (tame
entertainment). 3 (of a person) amenable. —v. (-ming) 1 make tame;
domesticate. 2 subdue, curb. tameable adj. Tamely adv. Tameness n. Tamer n.
(also in comb.). [old english]
Tamil —n. 1 member of a people of south india and sri lanka. 2 language of this
people. —adj. Of this people or language. [native name]
Tamp v. Ram down hard or tightly. [tampion stopper for gun-muzzle, from
french tampon]
Tampon n. Plug of soft material used esp. To absorb menstrual blood. [french:
related to *tamp]
Tandem —n. 1 bicycle with two or more seats one behind another. 2 group of
two people etc. With one behind or following the other. 3 carriage driven
tandem. —adv. With two or more horses harnessed one behind another (drive
tandem). in tandem 1 one behind another. 2 alongside each other; together.
[latin, = at length]
Tandoori n. Food spiced and cooked over charcoal in a tandoor (often attrib.:
tandoori chicken). [hindustani]
Tangent n. 1 (often attrib.) Straight line, curve, or surface that meets a curve at a
point, but does not intersect it. 2 ratio of two sides (other than the hypotenuse)
opposite and adjacent to an acute angle in a right-angled triangle. at a tangent
diverging from a previous course or from what is relevant or central (go off at a
tangent). [latin tango tact-touch]
Tango —n. (pl. -s) 1 slow s. American ballroom dance. 2 music for this. —v. (-
goes, -goed) dance the tango. [american spanish]
Tank —n. 1 large container, usu. For liquid or gas. 2 heavy armoured fighting
vehicle moving on continuous tracks. —v. (usu. Foll. By up) fill the tank of (a
vehicle etc.) With fuel. tankful n. (pl. -s). [originally indian, = pond, from
gujarati]
Tankard n. 1 tall beer mug with a handle. 2 contents of or amount held by this
(drank a tankard of ale). [probably dutch tankaert]
Tank engine n. Steam engine with integral fuel and water containers.
Tanker n. Ship, aircraft, or road vehicle for carrying liquids, esp. Oil, in bulk.
Tansy n. (pl. -ies) plant with yellow flowers and aromatic leaves. [greek
athanasia immortality]
Tantalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 torment or tease by the sight or promise
of the unobtainable. 2 raise and then dash the hopes of. tantalization n. [tantalus,
mythical king punished in hades with sight of water and fruit which drew back
whenever he tried to reach them]
Tantalum n. Rare hard white metallic element. tantalic adj. [related to *tantalize]
Tantamount predic. Adj. (foll. By to) equivalent to. [italian tanto montare
amount to so much]
Tantra n. Any of a class of hindu or buddhist mystical or magical writings.
[sanskrit, = doctrine]
Tap1 —n. 1 device by which a flow of liquid or gas from a pipe or vessel can be
controlled. 2 tapping of a telephone etc. 3 taproom. —v. (-pp-) 1 provide (a cask)
or let out (liquid) with a tap. 2 draw sap from (a tree) by cutting into it. 3 obtain
information or supplies from. 4 extract or obtain; discover and exploit (mineral
wealth waiting to be tapped; tap skills of young people). 5 connect a listening
device to (a telephone etc.). on tap 1 ready to be drawn off by tap. 2 colloq.
Freely available. [old english]
Tap2 —v. (-pp-) 1 (foll. By at, on) strike a gentle but audible blow. 2 (often foll.
By against, on, etc.) Strike or cause (a thing) to strike lightly (tapped me on the
shoulder). 3 (often foll. By out) make by a tap or taps (tapped out the rhythm). 4
tap-dance. —n. 1 a light blow; rap. B sound of this. 2 a tap-dancing. B metal
attachment on a tap-dancer’s shoe. [imitative]
Tapas n.pl. (often attrib.) Small savoury esp. Spanish dishes. [spanish]
Tap-dance —n. Rhythmic dance performed with shoes with metal taps. —v.
Tap-dance —n. Rhythmic dance performed with shoes with metal taps. —v.
Perform a tap-dance. tap-dancer n. Tap-dancing n.
Tape —n. 1 narrow strip of woven material for tying up, fastening, etc. 2 this
across the finishing line of a race. 3 (in full adhesive tape) strip of adhesive
plastic etc. For fastening, masking, insulating, etc. 4 a = magnetic tape. B reel or
cassette containing this. C tape recording. 5 = tape-measure. —v. (-ping) 1 a
fasten or join etc. With tape. B apply tape to. 2 (foll. By off) seal or mark off
with tape. 3 record on magnetic tape. 4 measure with tape. have (or get) a person
or thing taped colloq. Understand (him, it, etc.) Fully. [old english]
Tape deck n. Machine for using audiotape (separate from the amplifier, speakers,
etc.).
Taper —n. 1 wick coated with wax etc. For conveying a flame. 2 slender candle.
—v. (often foll. By off) 1 diminish or reduce in thickness towards one end. 2
make or become gradually less. [old english]
Tapestry n. (pl. -ies) 1 a thick fabric in which coloured weft threads are woven to
form pictures or designs. B (usu. Wool) embroidery imitating this. C piece of
this. 2 events or circumstances etc. Seen as interwoven etc. (life’s rich tapestry).
tapestried adj. [tapissery from french tapis carpet]
Tapioca n. Starchy substance in hard white grains, obtained from cassava and
used for puddings etc. [tupi-guarani]
Tar1 —n. 1 dark thick inflammable liquid distilled from wood or coal etc., used
as a preservative of wood and iron, in making roads, as an antiseptic, etc. 2
similar substance formed in the combustion of tobacco etc. —v. (-rr-) cover with
tar. tar and feather smear with tar and then cover with feathers as a punishment.
Tarred with the same brush having the same faults. [old english]
Taramasalata n. (also taramosalata) pâté made from roe with olive oil, seasoning,
etc. [greek taramas roe, salata *salad]
Tarantella n. 1 whirling s. Italian dance. 2 music for this. [italian from taranto in
italy]
Tardy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 slow to act, come, or happen. 2 delaying or delayed.
tardily adv. Tardiness n. [latin tardus slow]
Tare1 n. 1 vetch, esp. As a cornfield weed or fodder. 2 (in pl.) Bibl. An injurious
cornfield weed (matt. 13:24-30). [origin unknown]
Tare2 n. 1 allowance made for the weight of packing or wrapping around goods.
2 weight of a vehicle without fuel or load. [arabic tarha]
Target —n. 1 mark fired or aimed at, esp. A round object marked with
concentric circles. 2 person or thing aimed or fired at etc. (an easy target). 3
objective or result aimed at. 4 butt for criticism, abuse, etc. —v. (-t-) 1 identify
or single out as a target. 2 aim or direct (missiles targeted on major cities).
[french targe shield]
Tarmac —n. Propr. 1 = *tarmacadam. 2 runway etc. Made of this. —v. (tarmac)
(-ck-) apply tarmacadam to. [abbreviation]
Tarmacadam n. Stone or slag bound with bitumen, used in paving roads etc.
[from tar1, macadam]
Tarnish —v. 1 (cause to) lose lustre. 2 impair (one’s reputation etc.). —n. 1 loss
of lustre, esp. As a film on a metal’s surface. 2 blemish, stain. [french ternir from
terne dark]
Taro n. (pl. -s) tropical plant with tuberous roots used as food. [polynesian]
Tarot n. (often attrib.) 1 (in sing. Or pl.) A pack of mainly picture cards used in
fortune-telling. B any game played with a similar pack of 78 cards. 2 any card
from a tarot pack. [french]
Tarpaulin n. 1 heavy-duty cloth waterproofed esp. With tar. 2 sheet or covering
of this. [from tar1, pall1]
Tarragon n. Bushy herb used in salads, stuffings, vinegar, etc. [medieval latin
from greek]
Tarsus n. (pl. Tarsi) 1 bones of the ankle and upper foot. 2 shank of a bird’s leg.
[greek]
Tart1 n. 1 open pastry case containing jam etc. 2 pie with a fruit or other sweet
filling. tartlet n. [french tarte]
Tart3 adj. 1 sharp or acid in taste. 2 (of a remark etc.) Cutting, bitter. tartly adv.
Tartness n. [old english]
Tartar n. 1 hard deposit that forms on the teeth. 2 deposit that forms a hard crust
in wine. [medieval latin from greek]
Tartaric acid n. Natural acid found esp. In unripe grapes, used in baking powders
etc.
Tartar sauce n. Sauce of mayonnaise and chopped gherkins, capers, etc. [from
*tartar]
Tartrazine n. Brilliant yellow dye from tartaric acid, used to colour food etc.
Tarty adj. Colloq. (-ier, -iest) (esp. Of a woman) vulgar, gaudy; promiscuous.
[from *tart2]
Task —n. Piece of work to be done. —v. Make great demands on (a person’s
powers etc.). take to task rebuke, scold. [medieval latin tasca, probably = taxa
*tax]
Task force n. (also task group) armed force or other group organized for a
specific operation or task.
Taste —n. 1 a sensation caused in the mouth by contact with a soluble substance.
B faculty of perceiving this (bitter to the taste). 2 small sample of food or drink.
3 slight experience (taste of success). 4 (often foll. By for) liking or predilection
(expensive tastes). 5 aesthetic discernment in art, clothes, conduct, etc. (in poor
taste). —v. (-ting) 1 sample the flavour of (food etc.) By taking it into the mouth.
2 (also absol.) Perceive the flavour of (cannot taste with a cold). 3 (esp.
Taste bud n. Cell or nerve-ending on the surface of the tongue by which things
are tasted.
Tasteful adj. Having, or done in, good taste. tastefully adv. Tastefulness n.
Tasteless adj. 1 lacking flavour. 2 having, or done in, bad taste. tastelessly adv.
Tastelessness n.
Tatter n. (usu. In pl.) Rag; irregularly torn cloth or paper etc. in tatters colloq. 1
torn in many places. 2 destroyed, ruined. [old norse]
Tatting n. 1 a kind of handmade knotted lace used for trimming etc. 2 process of
making this. [origin unknown]
Tattle —v. (-ling) prattle, chatter, gossip. —n. Gossip; idle talk. [flemish tatelen,
imitative]
Tattoo2 —v. (-oos, -ooed) 1 mark (skin) indelibly by puncturing it and inserting
pigment. 2 make (a design) in this way. —n. Such a design. tattooer n. Tattooist
n. [polynesian]
Tatty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 tattered; shabby. 2 inferior. 3 tawdry. tattily adv.
Tattiness n. [originally scots, = shaggy, apparently related to *tatter]
Taupe adj. & n. Grey tinged with esp. Brown. [french, = *mole1]
Taurus n. (pl. -es) 1 constellation and second sign of the zodiac (the bull). 2
person born when the sun is in this sign. taurean adj. & n. [latin, = bull]
Taut adj. 1 (of a rope etc.) Tight; not slack. 2 (of nerves etc.) Tense. 3 (of a ship
etc.) In good condition. tauten v. Tautly adv. Tautness n. [perhaps = *tough]
Tautology n. (pl. -ies) repetition using different words, esp. As a fault of style
(e.g. Arrived one after the other in succession). tautological adj. Tautologous adj.
[greek tauto the same]
Tawdry adj. (-ier, -iest) showy but worthless; gaudy. tawdrily adv. Tawdriness n.
[tawdry lace from st audrey’s lace]
[tawdry lace from st audrey’s lace]
Tax-deductible adj. (of expenditure) legally deductible from income before tax
assessment.
Taxi —n. (pl. -s) (in full taxi-cab) car licensed to ply for hire and usu. Fitted
with a taximeter. —v. (-xis, -xied, -xiing or -xying) 1 (of an aircraft or pilot)
drive on the ground before take-off or after landing. 2 go or convey in a taxi.
[abbreviation of taximeter cab]
Taxi rank n. (us taxi stand) place where taxis wait to be hired.
Tayberry n. (pl. -ies) hybrid fruit between the blackberry and raspberry. [river
tay in scotland]
Tb symb. Terbium.
T-bone n. T-shaped bone, esp. In steak from the thin end of a loin.
Tc symb. Technetium.
Te symb. Tellurium.
Te n. (also ti) seventh note of a major scale. [earlier si: french from italian]
Tea n. 1 a (in full tea plant) asian evergreen shrub or small tree. B its dried
leaves. 2 drink made by infusing tea-leaves in boiling water. 3 infusion of other
leaves etc. (camomile tea; beef tea). 4 a light afternoon meal of tea, bread, cakes,
etc. B = *high tea. [probably dutch tee from chinese]
Teacup n. 1 cup from which tea is drunk. 2 amount held by this. teacupful n. (pl.
-s).
Tea-leaf n. 1 dried leaf of tea. 2 (esp. In pl.) These as dregs. 3 rhyming sl. Thief.
Team —n. 1 set of players forming one side in a game. 2 two or more people
working together. 3 set of draught animals. —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By up) join in a
team or in common action (teamed up with them). 2 (foll. By with) match or
coordinate (clothes). [old english]
Teapot n. Pot with a handle, spout, and lid, for brewing and then pouring tea.
Tear1 —v. (past tore; past part. Torn) 1 (often foll. By up) pull apart or to pieces
with some force (tore up the letter). 2 a make a hole or rent in this way; undergo
this (have torn my coat; curtain tore). B make (a hole or rent). 3 (foll. By away,
off, at, etc.) Pull violently (tore off the cover; tore down the notice). 4 violently
disrupt or divide (torn by guilt). 5 colloq. Go hurriedly (tore across the road). —
n. 1 hole etc. Caused by tearing. 2 torn part of cloth etc. be torn between have
difficulty in choosing between. Tear apart 1 search (a place) exhaustively. 2
criticize forcefully. 3 destroy; divide utterly; distress greatly. Tear one’s hair out
colloq. Behave with extreme desperation. Tear into colloq. 1 severely reprimand.
2 start (an activity) vigorously. Tear oneself away leave reluctantly. Tear to
shreds colloq. Refute or criticize thoroughly. That’s torn it colloq. That has
spoiled things etc. [old english]
Tear2 n. 1 drop of clear salty liquid secreted by glands from the eye, and shed
esp. In grief. 2 tearlike thing; drop. in tears crying. [old english]
Tearful adj. 1 crying or inclined to cry. 2 sad (tearful event). tearfully adv.
Tearoom n. Small unlicensed café serving tea etc.
Teasel n. (also teazel, teazle) 1 plant with large prickly heads that are dried and
used to raise the nap on woven cloth. 2 other device used for this purpose.
teaseler n. [old english: related to *tease]
Teashop n. = *tearoom.
Teaspoon n. 1 small spoon for stirring tea. 2 amount held by this. teaspoonful n.
(pl. -s).
Teat n. 1 mammary nipple, esp. Of an animal. 2 rubber nipple for sucking from a
bottle. [french from germanic]
Tea trolley n. (us tea wagon) small trolley from which tea is served.
Technical adj. 1 of the mechanical arts and applied sciences (technical college).
2 of a particular subject or craft etc. Or its techniques (technical terms). 3 (of a
book or discourse etc.) Using technical language; specialized. 4 due to
mechanical failure (technical hitch). 5 strictly or legally interpreted (lost on a
technical point). technically adv.
Technical knockout n. Ruling by the referee that a boxer has lost because he is
not fit to continue.
Technology n. (pl. -ies) 1 knowledge or use of the mechanical arts and applied
sciences (lacked the technology). 2 these subjects collectively. technological adj.
sciences (lacked the technology). 2 these subjects collectively. technological adj.
Technologically adv. Technologist n. [greek tekhnologia systematic treatment,
from tekhne art]
Tectonics n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Study of the earth’s large-scale structural
features (see *plate tectonics).
Teddy n. (also teddy) (pl. -ies) (in full teddy bear) soft toy bear. [teddy, pet form
of theodore roosevelt]
Teddy boy n. Colloq. Youth, esp. Of the 1950s, wearing edwardian-style clothes,
hairstyle, etc. [teddy, pet form of edward]
Tee2 —n. 1 a cleared space from which the golf ball is struck at the start of play
for each hole. B small wooden or plastic support for a golf ball used then. 2 mark
aimed at in bowls, quoits, curling, etc. —v. (tees, teed) (often foll. By up) place
(a ball) on a golf tee. tee off 1 play a ball from a tee. 2 colloq. Start, begin.
[origin unknown]
Tee-hee (also te-hee) —int. Expressing esp. Derisive amusement. —n. Titter,
giggle. —v. (-hees, -heed) titter, giggle. [imitative]
Teem2 v. (often foll. By down) (of water etc.) Flow copiously; pour (teeming
with rain). [old norse]
Teeny-bopper n. Colloq. Young teenager, usu. A girl, who follows the latest
fashions.
Teetotal adj. Of or advocating total abstinence from alcohol. teetotalism n.
Teetotaller n. [reduplication of *total]
Teflon n. Propr. Non-stick coating for kitchen utensils. [from tetra-, fluor-, -on]
Usage since 1981 telegram has not been in uk official use, except for
international messages. See also telemessage.
Telemarketing n. Marketing of goods etc. By unsolicited telephone calls.
Usage telemessage has been in uk official use since 1981 for inland messages,
replacing telegram.
Telephone booth n. (also telephone kiosk, telephone box) booth etc. With a
telephone for public use.
Telephoto n. (pl. -s) (in full telephoto lens) lens used in telephotography.
Telesales n.pl. Selling by telephone.
Tell v. (past and past part. Told) 1 relate in speech or writing (tell me a story). 2
make known; express in words (tell me your name). 3 reveal or signify to (a
person) (your face tells me everything). 4 utter (tell lies). 5 a (often foll. By of,
about) divulge information etc.; reveal a secret, the truth etc. (told her about
venice; book tells you how to cook; promise you won’t tell; time will tell). B
(foll. By on) colloq. Inform against. 6 (foll. By to + infin.) Direct; order (tell
them to wait). 7 assure (it’s true, i tell you). 8 decide, determine, distinguish (tell
one from the other). 9 (often foll. By on) produce a noticeable effect or influence
(strain told on me; evidence tells against you). 10 (often absol.) Count (votes) at
a meeting, election, etc. tell apart distinguish between (could not tell them apart).
Tell off colloq. Scold. Tell tales make known another person’s faults etc. Tell the
time read the time from a clock or watch. You’re telling me colloq. I agree
wholeheartedly. [old english: related to *tale]
Teller n. 1 person working at the counter of a bank etc. 2 person who counts
votes. 3 person who tells esp. Stories (teller of tales).
Tell-tale n. 1 person who reveals secrets about another. 2 (attrib.) That reveals or
betrays (tell-tale smile). 3 automatic monitoring or registering device.
Temp colloq. —n. Temporary employee, esp. A secretary. —v. Work as a temp.
[abbreviation]
Temper —n. 1 mental disposition, mood (placid temper). 2 irritation or anger (fit
of temper). 3 tendency to lose one’s temper (have a temper). 4 composure,
calmness (lose one’s temper). 5 hardness or elasticity of metal. —v. 1 bring
(metal or clay) to a proper hardness or consistency. 2 (foll. By with) moderate,
mitigate (temper justice with mercy). in a bad (or out of) temper irritable, angry.
In a good temper amicable, happy. [latin tempero mingle]
Temperance n. 1 moderation, esp. In eating and drinking. 2 (often attrib.)
Abstinence, esp. Total, from alcohol (temperance hotel). [latin: related to
*temper]
Template n. Piece of thin board or metal plate etc., used as a pattern in cutting or
drilling etc. [originally templet, diminutive of temple, device in a loom to keep
the cloth stretched]
Temple2 n. Flat part of either side of the head between the forehead and the ear.
[french from latin]
[french from latin]
Temporary —adj. Lasting or meant to last only for a limited time. —n. (pl. -ies)
person employed temporarily. temporarily adv. Temporariness n.
Ten adj. & n. 1 one more than nine. 2 symbol for this (10, x, x). 3 size etc.
Denoted by ten. 4 ten o’clock. ten to one very probably. [old english]
Tenacious adj. 1 (often foll. By of) keeping a firm hold. 2 persistent, resolute. 3
(of memory) retentive. tenaciously adv. Tenacity n. [latin tenax -acis from teneo
hold]
Tenant n. 1 person who rents land or property from a landlord. 2 (often foll. By
of) occupant of a place. [french: related to *tenable]
Tench n. (pl. Same) european freshwater fish of the carp family. [latin tinca]
Ten commandments n.pl. (prec. By the) rules of conduct given by god to moses
(exod. 20:1–17).
(exod. 20:1–17).
Tend1 v. 1 (often foll. By to) be apt or inclined (tends to lose his temper; tends
to fat). 2 be moving; hold a course (tends in our direction). [latin tendo tens-or
tent-stretch]
Tend2 v. Take care of, look after (an invalid, sheep, a machine etc.). [from
*attend]
Tender1 adj. (tenderer, tenderest) 1 easily cut or chewed, not tough (tender
steak). 2 susceptible to pain or grief; vulnerable; compassionate (tender heart). 3
sensitive; fragile; delicate (tender skin; tender reputation). 4 loving, affectionate.
5 requiring tact (tender subject). 6 (of age) early, immature (of tender years).
tenderly adv. Tenderness n. [latin tener]
Tender3 n. 1 person who looks after people or things. 2 supply ship attending a
larger one etc. 3 truck coupled to a steam locomotive to carry fuel and water.
[from *tend2]
Tenderize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make (esp. Meat) tender by beating,
hanging, marinading, etc. tenderizer n.
Tendril n. Slender leafless shoot by which some climbing plants cling. [probably
from french tendrillon]
Tenfold adj. & adv. 1 ten times as much or as many. 2 consisting of ten parts.
Tennis n. Game in which two or four players strike a ball with rackets over a net
stretched across a court. [probably french tenez take! (as a server’s call)]
Tenon n. Wooden projection made for insertion into a cavity, esp. A mortise, in
another piece. [latin: related to *tenor]
Tenpin bowling n. Game in which ten pins or skittles are bowled at in an alley.
Tenter n. Machine for stretching cloth to dry in shape. [medieval latin tentorium:
related to *tend1]
Tenth adj. & n. 1 next after ninth. 2 any of ten equal parts of a thing. tenthly adv.
Tenure n. 1 condition, or form of right or title, under which (esp. Real) property
Tenure n. 1 condition, or form of right or title, under which (esp. Real) property
is held. 2 (often foll. By of) a holding or possession of an office or property. B
period of this. 3 guaranteed permanent employment, esp. As a teacher or
lecturer. tenured adj. [latin teneo]
Tercel n. (also tiercel) male hawk, esp. A peregrine or goshawk. [latin tertius
third]
Teredo n. (pl. -s) bivalve mollusc that bores into submerged timbers of ships etc.
[latin from greek]
Tergiversate v. (-ting) 1 change one’s party or principles; apostatize. 2 make
conflicting or evasive statements. tergiversation n. Tergiversator n. [latin tergum
back, verto turn]
Term —n. 1 word for a definite concept, esp. Specialized (technical term). 2 (in
pl.) Language used; mode of expression (in no uncertain terms). 3 (in pl.)
Relation, footing (on good terms). 4 (in pl.) A stipulations (accepts your terms).
B charge or price (reasonable terms). 5 a limited, usu. Specified, period (term of
five years; in the short term). B period of weeks during which instruction is
given or during which a lawcourt holds sessions. 6 logic word or words that may
be the subject or predicate of a proposition. 7 math. A each of the quantities in a
ratio or series. B part of an algebraic expression. 8 completion of a normal length
of pregnancy. —v. Call, name (was termed a bigot). bring to terms cause to
accept conditions. Come to terms yield, give way. Come to terms with reconcile
oneself to (a difficulty etc.). In terms of in the language peculiar to; referring to.
termly adj. & adv. [latin *terminus]
Terminate v. (-ting) 1 bring or come to an end. 2 (foll. By in) (of a word) end in
(a specified letter etc.).
Terminus n. (pl. -ni or -nuses) 1 station at the end of a railway or bus route. 2
point at the end of a pipeline etc. [latin, = end, limit, boundary]
Termite n. Small tropical antlike social insect destructive to timber. [latin termes
-mitis]
Terrace —n. 1 flat area made on a slope for cultivation. 2 level paved area next
to a house. 3 row of houses built in one block of uniform style. 4 tiered standing
accommodation for spectators at a sports ground. —v. (-cing) form into or
provide with a terrace or terraces. [latin terra earth]
Terrarium n. (pl. -s or -ria) 1 place for keeping small land animals. 2 sealed
transparent globe etc. Containing growing plants. [latin terra earth, after
aquarium]
Terrible adj. 1 colloq. Very great or bad (terrible bore). 2 colloq. Very
incompetent (terrible at maths). 3 causing or likely to cause terror; dreadful,
formidable. [latin terreo frighten]
Terrier n. Small dog of various breeds originally used for digging out foxes etc.
[french chien terrier dog that chases to earth]
Terrific adj. 1 colloq. A huge; intense (terrific noise). B excellent (did a terrific
job). 2 causing terror. terrifically adv. [latin: related to *terrible]
Terrify v. (-ies, -ied) fill with terror (terrified of dogs). terrifying adj.
Terrifyingly adv.
Terrine n. 1 pâté or similar food. 2 earthenware vessel, esp. For pâté. [latin terra
earth]
Territorial waters n.pl. Area of sea under the jurisdiction of a state, esp. Within a
stated distance of the shore.
Territory n. (pl. -ies) 1 extent of the land under the jurisdiction of a ruler, state,
etc. 2 (territory) organized division of a country, esp. One not yet admitted to the
full rights of a state. 3 sphere of action etc.; province. 4 commercial traveller’s
sales area. 5 animal’s or human’s defended space or area. 6 area defended by a
team or player in a game. [latin terra land]
Terrorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 fill with terror. 2 use terrorism against.
terrorization n.
Terry n. (often attrib.) Looped pile fabric used esp. For towels and nappies.
[origin unknown]
Terse adj. (terser, tersest) 1 brief, concise. 2 curt, abrupt. tersely adv. Terseness
n. [latin tergo ters-wipe]
n. [latin tergo ters-wipe]
Tertiary —adj. 1 third in order or rank etc. 2 (tertiary) of the first period in the
cenozoic era. —n. (tertiary) tertiary period. [latin tertius third]
Tessera n. (pl. Tesserae) small square block used in mosaic. [latin from greek]
Tessitura n. Range of a singing voice or vocal part. [italian, = *texture]
Testa n. (pl. Testae) seed’s protective outer covering. [latin: related to *test2]
Testament n. 1 will (esp. Last will and testament). 2 (usu. Foll. By to) evidence,
proof (is testament to his loyalty). 3 bibl. A covenant, dispensation. B
(testament) division of the bible (see *old testament, new testament). [latin
testamentum will: related to testate]
Testate —adj. Having left a valid will at death. —n. Testate person. testacy n.
(pl. -ies). [latin testor testify, from testis witness]
Testator n. (fem. Testatrix) (esp. Deceased) person who has made a will. [latin:
related to *testate]
related to *testate]
Test card n. Still television picture outside normal programme hours used for
adjusting brightness, definition, etc.
Test case n. Law case setting a precedent for other similar cases.
Tester n. 1 person or thing that tests. 2 bottle etc. Containing a cosmetic for trial
in a shop.
Testicle n. Male organ that produces spermatozoa etc., esp. One of a pair in the
scrotum in man and most mammals. [latin, diminutive of testis witness]
Testify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. By to) (of a person or thing) bear witness; be
evidence of (testified to the facts). 2 give evidence. 3 affirm or declare. [latin
testificor from testis witness]
Testis n. (pl. Testes) anat. & zool. Testicle. [latin, = witness (cf. *testicle)]
Testosterone n. Male sex hormone formed in the testicles. [from testis, sterol]
Test-tube n. Thin glass tube closed at one end, used for chemical tests etc.
Testy adj. (-ier, -iest) irritable, touchy. testily adv. Testiness n. [french teste
head: related to *test2]
Tetchy adj. (-ier, -iest) peevish, irritable. tetchily adv. Tetchiness n. [teche
blemish, fault]
Tête-à-tête —n. (often attrib.) Private conversation between two persons. —adv.
Privately without a third person (dined tête-à-tête). [french, literally ‘head-to-
head’]
Tether —n. Rope etc. Confining a grazing animal. —v. Tie with a tether. at the
end of one’s tether at the limit of one’s patience, resources, etc. [old norse]
Tetragon n. Plane figure with four angles and sides. tetragonal adj. [greek -gonos
-angled]
Tetralogy n. (pl. -ies) group of four related novels, plays, operas, etc.
Text n. 1 main body of a book as distinct from notes etc. 2 original book or
document, esp. As distinct from a paraphrase etc. 3 passage from scripture, esp.
As the subject of a sermon. 4 subject, theme. 5 (in pl.) Books prescribed for
study. 6 data in textual form, esp. As stored, processed, or displayed in a word
processor etc. [latin texo text-weave]
Textbook —n. Book for use in studying, esp. A standard account of a subject. —
attrib. Adj. 1 exemplary, accurate. 2 instructively typical.
Text editor n. Computing system or program allowing the user to enter and edit
text.
Textile —n. 1 (often in pl.) Fabric, cloth, or fibrous material, esp. Woven. 2
fibre, yarn. —adj. 1 of weaving or cloth (textile industry). 2 woven (textile
fabrics). [latin: related to *text]
Text processing n. Computing manipulation of text, esp. Transforming it from
one format to another.
Th symb. Thorium.
-th suffix (also -eth) forming ordinal and fractional numbers from four onwards.
[old english]
Thai —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 a native or national of thailand. B person of thai
descent. 2 language of thailand. —adj. Of thailand. [thai, = free]
Thallium n. Rare soft white metallic element. [greek thallos green shoot]
Than conj. Introducing a comparison (plays better than he did before; more
bread than meat in these sausages; cost more than £100; you are older than he).
[old english, originally = *then]
[old english, originally = *then]
Usage with reference to the last example, it is also legitimate to say you are older
than him, with than treated as a preposition, esp. In less formal contexts.
Thane n. Hist. 1 man who held land from an english king or other superior by
military service. 2 man who held land from a scottish king and ranked with an
earl’s son; chief of a clan. [old english]
Thank —v. 1 express gratitude to (thanked him for the present). 2 hold
responsible (you can thank yourself for that). —n. (in pl.) 1 gratitude. 2
expression of gratitude. 3 (as a formula) thank you (thanks for your help). thank
goodness (or god or heavens etc.) Colloq. Expression of relief etc. Thanks to as
the result of (thanks to my foresight; thanks to your obstinacy). Thank you polite
formula expressing gratitude. [old english]
Thankless adj. 1 not expressing or feeling gratitude. 2 (of a task etc.) Giving no
pleasure or profit; unappreciated.
Thatch —n. 1 roof-covering of straw, reeds, etc. 2 colloq. Hair of the head. —v.
(also absol.) Cover with thatch. thatcher n. [old english]
Thaw —v. 1 (often foll. By out) pass from a frozen into a liquid or unfrozen
state. 2 (usu. Prec. By it as subject) (of the weather) become warm enough to
melt ice etc. 3 become warm enough to lose numbness etc.
The —adj. (called the definite article) 1 denoting person(s) or thing(s) already
mentioned, under discussion, implied, or familiar (gave the man a wave). 2
describing as unique (the thames). 3 a (foll. By defining adj.) Which is, who are,
etc. (edward the seventh). B (foll. By adj. Used absol.) Denoting a class
described (from the sublime to the ridiculous). 4 best known or best entitled to
the name (with the stressed: do you mean the kipling?). 5 indicating a following
defining clause or phrase (the book that you borrowed). 6 a indicating that a
singular noun represents a species etc. (the cat is a mammal). B used with a noun
which figuratively represents an occupation etc. (went on the stage). C (foll. By
the name of a unit) a, per (5p in the pound). —adv. (preceding comparatives in
expressions of proportional variation) in or by that (or such a) degree; on that
account (the more the merrier; the more he has the more he wants). [old english]
Theatrical —adj. 1 of or for the theatre or acting. 2 (of a manner or person etc.)
Calculated for effect; showy. —n. (in pl.) Dramatic performances (amateur
theatricals). theatricality n. Theatrically adv.
Theirs poss. Pron. The one or ones of or belonging to them (it is theirs; theirs are
over here). of theirs of or belonging to them (a friend of theirs).
Them —pron. 1 objective case of *they. 2 colloq. They (it’s them again). —
demons. Adj. Slang or dial. Those. [old norse]
Theme song n. (also theme tune) 1 recurrent melody in a musical play or film. 2
signature tune.
Then —adv. 1 at that time. 2 a next; after that. B and also. 3 a in that case (then
you should have said so). B implying grudging or impatient concession (all right
then, if you must). C used parenthetically to resume a narrative etc. (the
policeman, then, knocked on the door). —attrib. Adj. Such at the time in
question (the then king). —n. That time (until then). then and there immediately
and on the spot. [old english]
Thence adv. (also from thence) archaic or literary 1 from that place. 2 for that
reason. [old english]
Thenceforth adv. (also thenceforward) archaic or literary from that time onward.
Theology n. (pl. -ies) the study or a system of theistic (esp. Christian) religion.
theological adj. Theologically adv. [greek: related to *theo-]
Theoretical adj. 1 concerned with knowledge but not with its practical
application. 2 based on theory rather than experience. theoretically adv.
Therapeutic adj. 1 of, for, or contributing to, the cure of disease. 2 soothing,
Therapeutic adj. 1 of, for, or contributing to, the cure of disease. 2 soothing,
conducive to well-being. therapeutically adv. [greek therapeuo wait on, cure]
There —adv. 1 in, at, or to that place or position (lived there for a year; goes
there daily). 2 at that point (in speech, performance, writing, etc.). 3 in that
respect (i agree with you there). 4 used for emphasis in calling attention (you
there!). 5 used to indicate the fact or existence of something (there is a house on
the corner). —n. That place (lives near there). —int. 1 expressing confirmation,
triumph, etc. (there! What did i tell you?). 2 used to soothe a child etc. (there,
there, never mind). there and then = then and there. [old english]
Thereabouts adv. (also thereabout) 1 near that place. 2 near that number,
quantity, etc.
Thereby adv. By that means, as a result of that. thereby hangs a tale much could
be said about that.
Therm n. Unit of heat, esp. As the statutory unit of gas supplied, equivalent to
100,000 british thermal units (1.055 x 108 joules). [greek therme heat]
Thermal —adj. 1 of, for, or producing heat. 2 promoting the retention of heat
(thermal underwear). —n. Rising current of warm air (used by gliders etc. To
gain height). thermally adv. [french: related to *therm]
Thermionic adj. Of electrons emitted from a very hot substance. [from thermo-,
ion]
Thermonuclear adj. 1 relating to nuclear reactions that occur only at very high
temperatures. 2 (of weapons) using thermonuclear reactions.
Thermos n. (in full thermos flask) propr. Vacuum flask. [greek: related to
*thermo-]
Thermosphere n. Region of the atmosphere beyond the mesosphere.
Thesaurus n. (pl. -ri or -ruses) book that lists words in groups of synonyms and
related concepts. [greek: related to *treasure]
Thespian —adj. Of drama. —n. Actor or actress. [greek thespis, name of a greek
tragedian]
They pron. (obj. Them; poss. Their, theirs) 1 pl. Of he, she, *it. 2 people in
general (so they say). 3 those in authority (they have raised taxes). [old norse]
Thiamine n. (also thiamin) b vitamin found in unrefined cereals, beans, and liver,
a deficiency of which causes beriberi. [greek theion sulphur, amin from
*vitamin]
Thick —adj. 1 of great or specified extent between opposite surfaces. 2 (of a line
etc.) Broad; not fine. 3 arranged closely; crowded together; dense. 4 (usu. Foll.
By with) densely covered or filled (air thick with smoke). 5 a firm in
consistency; containing much solid matter. B made of thick material (a thick
coat). 6 a muddy, cloudy; impenetrable by sight. B (of one’s head) suffering
from a hangover, headache, etc. 7 colloq. Stupid. 8 a (of a voice) indistinct. B (of
an accent) very marked. 9 colloq. Intimate, very friendly. —n. Thick part of
anything. —adv. Thickly (snow was falling thick). a bit thick colloq.
Unreasonable or intolerable. In the thick of at the busiest part of. Through thick
and thin under all conditions; in spite of all difficulties. thickish adj. Thickly adv.
[old english]
Thicket n. Tangle of shrubs or trees. [old english: related to *thick]
Thief n. (pl. Thieves) person who steals, esp. Secretly. [old english]
Thievery n. Stealing.
Thigh n. Part of the leg between the hip and the knee. [old english]
Thigh-bone n. = *femur.
Thimble n. Metal or plastic cap worn to protect the finger and push the needle in
sewing. [old english: related to *thumb]
Thing n. 1 entity, idea, action, etc., that exists or may be thought about or
perceived. 2 inanimate material object (take that thing away). 3 unspecified item
(a few things to buy). 4 act, idea, or utterance (silly thing to do). 5 event
(unfortunate thing to happen). 6 quality (patience is a useful thing). 7 person
regarded with pity, contempt, or affection (poor thing!). 8 specimen or type
(latest thing in hats). 9 colloq. One’s special interest (not my thing). 10 colloq.
Something remarkable (there’s a thing!). 11 (prec. By the) colloq. A what is
proper or fashionable. B what is needed (just the thing). C what is to be
considered (the thing is, shall we go or not?). D what is important. 12 (in pl.)
considered (the thing is, shall we go or not?). D what is important. 12 (in pl.)
Personal belongings or clothing (where are my things?). 13 (in pl.) Equipment
(painting things). 14 (in pl.) Affairs in general (not in the nature of things). 15 (in
pl.) Circumstances, conditions (things look good). 16 (in pl. With a following
adjective) all that is so describable (things greek). do one’s own thing colloq.
Pursue one’s own interests or inclinations. Have a thing about colloq. Be
obsessed or prejudiced about. Make a thing of colloq. 1 regard as essential. 2
cause a fuss about. [old english]
Think —v. (past and past part. Thought) 1 be of the opinion (think that they will
come). 2 judge or consider (is thought to be a fraud). 3 exercise the mind (let me
think for a moment). 4 (foll. By of or about) a consider; be or become aware of.
B form or entertain the idea of; imagine. 5 have a half-formed intention (i think
i’ll stay). 6 form a conception of. 7 recognize the presence or existence of
(thought no harm in it). —n. Colloq. Act of thinking (have a think). think again
revise one’s plans or opinions. Think aloud utter one’s thoughts as soon as they
occur. Think better of change one’s mind about (an intention) after
reconsideration. Think fit see *fit1. Think little (or nothing) of consider to be
insignificant. Think much (or a lot or highly) of have a high opinion of. Think
out 1 consider carefully. 2 produce (an idea etc.) By thinking. Think over reflect
upon in order to reach a decision. Think through reflect fully upon (a problem
etc.). Think twice use careful consideration, avoid hasty action, etc. Think up
colloq. Devise. [old english]
Thinker n. 1 person who thinks, esp. In a specified way (an original thinker). 2
person with a skilled or powerful mind.
Third adj. & n. 1 next after second. 2 each of three equal parts of a thing. thirdly
adv. [old english: related to *three]
Third degree —n. Long and severe questioning, esp. By police to obtain
information or a confession. —adj. (third-degree) denoting burns of the most
severe kind, affecting lower layers of tissue.
Third man n. Fielder positioned near the boundary behind the slips.
Third party —n. 1 another party besides the two principals. 2 bystander etc. —
adj. (third-party) (of insurance) covering damage or injury suffered by a person
other than the insured.
Third-rate adj. Inferior; very poor.
Third world n. (usu. Prec. By the) developing countries of asia, africa, and latin
america.
Thirst —n. 1 need to drink; discomfort caused by this. 2 desire, craving. —v.
(often foll. By for or after) 1 feel thirst. 2 have a strong desire. [old english]
Thirsty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 feeling thirst. 2 (of land, a season, etc.) Dry or parched.
3 (often foll. By for or after) eager. 4 colloq. Causing thirst (thirsty work).
thirstily adv. Thirstiness n. [old english: related to *thirst]
Thirteen adj. & n. 1 one more than twelve. 2 symbol for this (13, xiii, xiii). 3 size
etc. Denoted by thirteen. thirteenth adj. & n. [old english: related to *three]
Thirty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 three times ten. 2 symbol for this (30, xxx, xxx). 3 (in
pl.) Numbers from 30 to 39, esp. The years of a century or of a person’s life.
thirtieth adj. & n. [old english: related to *three]
This —demons. Pron. (pl. These) 1 person or thing close at hand or indicated or
already named or understood (can you see this?; this is my cousin). 2 (contrasted
with that) the person or thing nearer to hand or more immediately in mind. —
demons. Adj. (pl. These) 1 designating the person or thing close at hand etc. (cf.
Senses 1, 2 of pron.). 2 (of time) the present or current (am busy all this week). 3
colloq. (in narrative) designating a person or thing previously unmentioned (then
up came this policeman). —adv. To the degree or extent indicated (knew him
when he was this high). this and that colloq. Various unspecified things. [old
english]
Thistle n. 1 prickly plant, usu. With globular heads of purple flowers. 2 this as
the scottish national emblem. [old english]
Thistledown n. Light down containing thistle-seeds and blown about in the wind.
Thole n. (in full thole-pin) 1 pin in the gunwale of a boat as the fulcrum for an
oar. 2 each of two such pins forming a rowlock. [old english]
Thorax n. (pl. -races or -raxes) anat. & zool. Part of the trunk between the neck
and the abdomen. thoracic adj. [latin from greek]
Thorough adj. 1 complete and unqualified; not superficial. 2 acting or done with
great care and completeness. 3 absolute (thorough nuisance). thoroughly adv.
Thoroughness n. [related to *through]
Thou1 pron. (obj. Thee; poss. Thy or thine; pl. Ye or you) archaic second person
singular pronoun. [old english]
Usage thou has now been replaced by you except in some formal, liturgical,
dialect, and poetic uses.
Though (also tho’) —conj. 1 despite the fact that; in spite of being (though it was
early we left; though annoyed, i agreed). 2 (introducing a possibility) even if
(ask him though he may refuse). 3 and yet; nevertheless. —adv. Colloq.
However; all the same. [old norse]
Thousand adj. & n. (pl. Thousands or (in sense 1) thousand) (in sing. Prec. By a
or one) 1 ten hundred. 2 symbol for this (1,000, m, m). 3 (in sing. Or pl.) Colloq.
Large number. thousandfold adj. & adv. Thousandth adj. & n. [old english]
Thrall n. Literary 1 (often foll. By of, to) slave (of a person, or of a power or
influence). 2 slavery (in thrall). thraldom n. [old english from old norse]
Thread —n. 1 a spun-out cotton, silk, or glass etc.; yarn. B length of this. 2 thin
cord of twisted yarns used esp. In sewing and weaving. 3 continuous aspect of a
thing (the thread of life; thread of his argument). 4 spiral ridge of a screw. —v. 1
pass a thread through (a needle). 2 put (beads) on a thread. 3 insert (a strip of
material, e.g. Film or magnetic tape) into equipment. 4 make (one’s way)
carefully through a crowded place, over a difficult route, etc. [old english:
related to *throw]
Threadbare adj. 1 (of cloth) with the nap worn away and the thread visible. 2 (of
a person) wearing such clothes. 3 hackneyed.
a person) wearing such clothes. 3 hackneyed.
Three adj. & n. 1 a one more than two. B symbol for this (3, iii, iii). 2 size etc.
Denoted by three. [old english]
Threefold adj. & adv. 1 three times as much or as many. 2 consisting of three
parts.
Three-piece —n. Three-piece suit or suite. —attrib. Adj. (esp. Of a suit or suite)
consisting of three items.
Threeply —adj. Of three strands or layers etc. —n. 1 three-ply wool. 2 three-ply
wood.
Three-quarter n. (also three-quarter back) rugby any of three or four players just
behind the half-backs.
Thresh v. 1 beat out or separate grain from (corn etc.). 2 = *thrash v. 4. thresher
n. [old english]
Thrice adv. Archaic or literary 1 three times. 2 (esp. In comb.) Highly (thrice-
blessed). [related to *three]
Thrift n. 1 frugality; careful use of money etc. 2 the sea pink. [old norse: related
to *thrive]
Thrive v. (-ving; past throve or thrived; past part. Thriven or thrived) 1 prosper,
flourish. 2 grow rich. 3 (of a child, animal, or plant) grow vigorously. [old norse]
Throaty adj. (-ier, -iest) (of a voice) hoarsely resonant. throatily adv. Throatiness
n.
Throb —v. (-bb-) 1 pulsate, esp. With more than the usual force or rapidity. 2
vibrate with a persistent rhythm or with emotion. —n. 1 throbbing. 2 (esp.
Violent) pulsation. [imitative]
Throe n. (usu. In pl.) Violent pang, esp. Of childbirth or death. in the throes of
struggling with the task of. [old english, alteration of original throwe, perhaps by
association with woe]
Throne —n. 1 chair of state for a sovereign or bishop etc. 2 sovereign power
(came to the throne). —v. (-ning) enthrone. [greek thronos]
Throng —n. (often foll. By of) crowd, esp. Of people. —v. 1 come in great
numbers (crowds thronged to the stadium). 2 flock into or crowd round; fill with
or as with a crowd. [old english]
Throttle —n. 1 a valve controlling the flow of fuel or steam etc. In an engine. B
(in full throttle-lever) lever or pedal operating this valve. 2 throat, gullet, or
windpipe. —v. (-ling) 1 choke or strangle. 2 prevent the utterance etc. Of. 3
control (an engine or steam etc.) With a throttle. throttle back (or down) reduce
the speed of (an engine or vehicle) by throttling. [perhaps from *throat]
Through (also thro’, us thru) —prep. 1 a from end to end or side to side of. B
going in one side or end and out the other of. 2 between or among (swam
through the waves). 3 from beginning to end of (read through the letter; went
through many difficulties). 4 because of; by the agency, means, or fault of (lost it
through carelessness). 5 us up to and including (monday through friday). —adv.
1 through a thing; from side to side, end to end, or beginning to end. 2 so as to be
connected by telephone (will put you through). —attrib. Adj. 1 (of a journey,
route, etc.) Done without a change of line or vehicle etc. Or with one ticket. 2 (of
traffic) going through a place to its destination. 3 (of a road) open at both ends.
be through colloq. 1 (often foll. By with) have finished. 2 (often foll. By with)
cease to have dealings. 3 have no further prospects. Through and through
thoroughly, completely. [old english]
Throughout —prep. Right through; from end to end of. —adv. In every part or
respect.
Throw —v. (past threw; past part. Thrown) 1 propel with force through the air. 2
force violently into, or compel to be in, a specified position or state (thrown on
the rocks; threw themselves down; thrown out of work). 3 turn or move (part of
the body) quickly or suddenly (threw an arm out). 4 project or cast (light, a
shadow, etc.). 5 a bring to the ground in wrestling. B (of a horse) unseat (its
rider). 6 colloq. Disconcert (the question threw me). 7 (foll. By on, off, etc.) Put
(clothes etc.) Hastily on or off etc. 8 a cause (dice) to fall on a table etc. B obtain
(a specified number) by throwing dice. 9 cause to pass or extend suddenly to
another state or position (threw a bridge across the river). 10 operate (a switch or
lever). 11 form on a potter’s wheel. 12 have (a fit or tantrum etc.). 13 give (a
party). —n. 1 act of throwing or being thrown. 2 distance a thing is or may be
thrown. 3 (prec. By a) slang each; per item (sold at £10 a throw). throw away 1
discard as useless or unwanted. 2 waste or fail to make use of (an opportunity
etc.). Throw back 1 revert to ancestral character. 2 (usu. In passive; foll. By on)
compel to rely on. Throw in 1 interpose (a word or remark). 2 include at no extra
cost. 3 throw (a football) from the edge of the pitch where it has gone out of
play. Throw in the towel (or sponge) admit defeat. Throw off 1 discard; contrive
to get rid of. 2 write or utter in an offhand manner. Throw oneself at seek
blatantly as a sexual partner. Throw oneself into engage vigorously in. Throw
oneself on (or upon) rely completely on. Throw open (often foll. By to) 1 cause
to be suddenly or widely open. 2 make accessible. Throw out 1 put out forcibly
or suddenly. 2 discard as unwanted. 3 reject (a proposal).
Throw-away attrib. Adj. 1 meant to be thrown away after (one) use. 2 spoken in
a deliberately casual way. 3 disposed to throwing things away (throw-away
society).
Thrum1 —v. (-mm-) 1 play (a stringed instrument) monotonously or unskilfully.
2 (often foll. By on) drum idly. —n. 1 such playing. 2 resulting sound.
[imitative]
Thrum2 n. 1 unwoven end of a warp-thread, or the whole of such ends, left when
the finished web is cut away. 2 any short loose thread. [old english]
Thrush1 n. Any of various songbirds, esp. The song thrush and mistle thrush.
[old english]
Thrush2 n. 1 fungous disease, esp. Of children, affecting the mouth and throat. 2
similar disease of the vagina. [origin unknown]
Thrust —v. (past and past part. Thrust) 1 push with a sudden impulse or with
force. 2 (foll. By on) impose (a thing) forcibly; enforce acceptance of (a thing). 3
(foll. By at, through) pierce, stab; lunge suddenly. 4 make (one’s way) forcibly.
5 (as thrusting adj.) Aggressive, ambitious. —n. 1 sudden or forcible push or
lunge. 2 propulsive force produced by a jet or rocket engine. 3 strong attempt to
penetrate an enemy’s line or territory. 4 remark aimed at a person. 5 stress
between the parts of an arch etc. 6 (often foll. By of) chief theme or gist of
remarks etc. [old norse]
Thud —n. Low dull sound as of a blow on a non-resonant surface. —v. (-dd-)
make or fall with a thud. [probably old english]
Thulium n. Metallic element of the lanthanide series. [latin thule region in the
remote north]
Thumb —n. 1 short thick finger on the human hand, set apart from the other
four. 2 part of a glove etc. For a thumb. —v. 1 wear or soil (pages etc.) With a
thumb. 2 turn over pages with or as with a thumb (thumbed through the
directory). 3 request or get (a lift) by signalling with a raised thumb. 4 use the
thumb in a gesture. thumb one’s nose = cock a snook (see *snook). Thumbs
down indication of rejection. Thumbs up indication of satisfaction or approval.
Under a person’s thumb completely dominated by a person. [old english]
Thumb index n. Set of lettered grooves cut down the side of a book for easy
reference.
Thump —v. 1 beat or strike heavily, esp. With the fist. 2 throb strongly. 3 (foll.
By at, on, etc.) Knock loudly. —n. 1 heavy blow. 2 dull sound of this. [imitative]
Thunder —n. 1 loud noise caused by lightning and due to the expansion of
rapidly heated air. 2 resounding loud deep noise (thunders of applause). 3 strong
censure or denunciation. —v. 1 (prec. By it as subject) thunder sounds (it is
thundering; if it thunders). 2 make or proceed with a noise like thunder. 3 utter
(threats, compliments, etc.) Loudly. 4 (foll. By against etc.) Make violent threats
etc. Against. steal a person’s thunder see *steal. thundery adj. [old english]
Thunder-fly n. = *thrips.
Thunderstorm n. Storm with thunder and lightning and usu. Heavy rain or hail.
Thwack —v. Hit with a heavy blow. —n. Heavy blow. [imitative]
Thwart —v. Frustrate or foil (a person, plan, etc.). —n. Rower’s seat. [old norse,
= across]
Thy poss. Pron. (attrib.) (also thine predic. Or before a vowel) archaic of or
belonging to thee. [from *thine]
Usage thy has now been replaced by your except in some formal, liturgical,
dialect, and poetic uses.
Thyroid n. (in full thyroid gland) 1 large ductless gland in the neck of
vertebrates, secreting a hormone which regulates growth and development. 2
extract prepared from the thyroid gland of animals and used in treating goitre
etc. [greek thureos oblong shield]
Thyroid cartilage n. Large cartilage of the larynx, forming the adam’s apple.
Ti symb. Titanium.
Ti var. Of *te.
Tibia n. (pl. Tibiae) anat. Inner of two bones extending from the knee to the
ankle. tibial adj. [latin]
ankle. tibial adj. [latin]
Tic n. (in full nervous tic) occasional involuntary contraction of the muscles,
esp. Of the face. [french from italian]
Tick1 —n. 1 slight recurring click, esp. That of a watch or clock. 2 colloq.
Moment. 3 mark to denote correctness, check items in a list, etc. —v. 1 (of a
clock etc.) Make ticks. 2 a mark with a tick. B (often foll. By off) mark (an item)
with a tick in checking. tick off colloq. Reprimand. Tick over 1 (of an engine
etc.) Idle. 2 (of a person, project, etc.) Be functioning at a basic level. What
makes a person tick colloq. Person’s motivation. [probably imitative]
Tick2 n. 1 parasitic arachnid on the skin of dogs, cattle, etc. 2 parasitic insect on
sheep and birds etc. [old english]
Ticket —n. 1 written or printed piece of paper or card entitling the holder to
enter a place, participate in an event, travel by public transport, etc. 2
notification of a traffic offence etc. (parking ticket). 3 certificate of discharge
from the army. 4 certificate of qualification as a ship’s master, pilot, etc. 5 price
etc. Label. 6 esp. Us a list of candidates put forward by one group, esp. A
political party. B principles of a party. 7 (prec. By the) colloq. What is correct or
needed. —v. (-t-) attach a ticket to. [obsolete french étiquet]
Ticking n. Stout usu. Striped material used to cover mattresses etc. [from *tick4]
Tidbit n. (brit. Titbit) 1 dainty morsel. 2 piquant item of news etc. [perhaps from
dial. Tid tender]
Tiddly-wink n. 1 counter flicked with another into a cup etc. 2 (in pl.) This
game. [perhaps related to *tiddly1]
Tide n. 1 a periodic rise and fall of the sea due to the attraction of the moon and
sun. B water as affected by this. 2 time or season (usu. In comb.: whitsuntide). 3
marked trend of opinion, fortune, or events. tide (-ding) over provide (a person)
with what is needed during a difficult period. [old english, = *time]
Tidemark n. 1 mark made by the tide at high water. 2 a line left round a bath by
the dirty water. B colloq. Line between washed and unwashed parts of a person’s
body.
Tidings n. (as sing. Or pl.) Archaic or joc. News. [old english, probably from old
norse]
Tidy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 neat, orderly. 2 (of a person) methodical. 3 colloq.
Considerable (a tidy sum). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 receptacle for holding small objects
etc. 2 esp. Us cover for a chair-back etc. —v. (-ies, -ied) (also absol.; often foll.
By up) put in good order; make (oneself, a room, etc.) Tidy. tidily adv. Tidiness
n. [originally = timely etc., from *tide]
Tie —v. (tying) 1 attach or fasten with string or cord etc. 2 a form (a string,
ribbon, shoelace, necktie, etc.) Into a knot or bow. B form (a knot or bow) in this
way. 3 (often foll. By down) restrict (a person) in some way (is tied to his job). 4
(often foll. By with) achieve the same score or place as another competitor (tied
with her for first place). 5 hold (rafters etc.) Together by a crosspiece etc. 6 mus.
Unite (written notes) by a tie. —n. 1 cord or wire etc. Used for fastening. 2 strip
of material worn round the collar and tied in a knot at the front. 3 thing that
unites or restricts persons (family ties). 4 draw, dead heat, or equality of score
among competitors. 5 match between any pair from a group of competing
players or teams. 6 (also tie-beam etc.) Rod or beam holding parts of a structure
together. 7 mus. Curved line above or below two notes of the same pitch
indicating that they are to be played without a break between them. tie in (foll.
By with) bring into or have a close association or agreement. Tie up 1 bind
securely with cord etc. 2 invest or reserve (capital etc.) So that it is not
immediately available for use. 3 (often foll. By with) = tie in. 4 (usu. In passive)
fully occupy (a person). 5 bring to a satisfactory conclusion. [old english]
Tied attrib. Adj. 1 (of a house) occupied subject to the tenant’s working for its
owner. 2 (of a public house etc.) Bound to supply the products of a particular
brewery only.
Tie-dye n. (also tie and dye) method of producing dyed patterns by tying string
etc. To keep the dye away from parts of the fabric.
Tier n. Row, rank, or unit of a structure, as one of several placed one above
another (tiers of seats). tiered adj. [french tire from tirer draw, elongate]
Tiffin n. Ind. Light meal, esp. Lunch. [apparently from tiffing sipping]
Tiger n. 1 large asian animal of the cat family, with a yellow-brown coat with
black stripes. 2 fierce, energetic, or formidable person. [greek tigris]
Tiger-cat n. Any moderate-sized feline resembling the tiger, e.g. The ocelot.
Tight —adj. 1 closely held, drawn, fastened, fitting, etc. (tight hold; tight skirt).
2 too closely fitting. 3 impermeable, impervious, esp. (in comb.) To a specified
thing (watertight). 4 tense; stretched. 5 colloq. Drunk. 6 colloq. Stingy. 7 (of
money or materials) not easily obtainable. 8 a (of precautions, a programme,
etc.) Stringent, demanding. B presenting difficulties (tight situation). 9 produced
by or requiring great exertion or pressure (tight squeeze). —adv. Tightly (hold
tight!). tightly adv. Tightness n. [old norse]
Tightrope n. Rope stretched tightly high above the ground, on which acrobats
perform.
Tights n.pl. 1 thin close-fitting wool or nylon etc. Garment covering the legs,
feet, and the lower part of the torso, worn by women and girls. 2 similar garment
worn by a dancer, acrobat, etc.
Tilde n. Mark (˜) put over a letter, e.g. Over a spanish n when pronounced ny (as
in señor). [latin: related to *title]
Tile —n. 1 thin slab of concrete or baked clay etc. Used for roofing or paving
etc. 2 similar slab of glazed pottery, cork, linoleum, etc., for covering a wall,
floor, etc. 3 thin flat piece used in a game (esp. In mah-jong). —v. (-ling) cover
with tiles. on the tiles colloq. Having a spree. tiler n. [latin tegula]
Usage in all senses, till can be replaced by until which is more formal in style.
Till2 n. Drawer for money in a shop or bank etc., esp. With a device recording
the amount of each purchase. [origin unknown]
Tilt —v. 1 (cause to) assume a sloping position; heel over. 2 (foll. By at) strike,
thrust, or run at, with a weapon. 3 (foll. By with) engage in a contest. —n. 1
tilting. 2 sloping position. 3 (of medieval knights etc.) Charging with a lance
against an opponent or at a mark. 4 attack, esp. With argument or satire (have a
tilt at).
Timbre n. Distinctive character of a musical sound or voice apart from its pitch
and volume. [greek: related to *tympanum]
Time —n. 1 indefinite continued progress of existence, events, etc., in the past,
present, and future, regarded as a whole. 2 progress of this as affecting persons
or things. 3 portion of time belonging to particular events or circumstances (the
time of the plague; prehistoric times). 4 allotted or available portion of time (had
no time to eat). 5 point of time, esp. In hours and minutes (the time is 7.30). 6
(prec. By a) indefinite period. 7 time or an amount of time as reckoned by a
conventional standard (eight o’clock new york time; the time allowed is one
hour). 8 occasion (last time). 9 moment etc. Suitable for a purpose etc. (the time
to act). 10 (in pl.) Expressing multiplication (five times six is thirty). 11 lifetime
(will last my time). 12 (in sing. Or pl.) Conditions of life or of a period (hard
times). 13 slang prison sentence (is doing time). 14 apprenticeship (served his
time). 15 period of gestation. 16 date or expected date of childbirth or death. 17
measured time spent in work. 18 a any of several rhythmic patterns of music. B
duration of a note. —v. (-ming) 1 choose the time for. 2 do at a chosen or correct
time. 3 arrange the time of arrival of. 4 ascertain the time taken by. against time
with utmost speed, so as to finish by a specified time. Ahead of time earlier than
expected. All the time 1 during the whole of the time referred to (often despite
some contrary expectation etc.). 2 constantly. At one time 1 in a known but
unspecified past period. 2 simultaneously. At the same time 1 simultaneously. 2
nevertheless. At times intermittently. For the time being until some other
arrangement is made. Half the time colloq. As often as not. Have no time for 1
be unable or unwilling to spend time on. 2 dislike. Have a time of it undergo
trouble or difficulty. In no time 1 very soon. 2 very quickly. In time 1 not late,
punctual. 2 eventually. 3 in accordance with a given rhythm. Keep time move or
sing etc. In time. Pass the time of day colloq. Exchange a greeting or casual
remarks. Time after time 1 on many occasions. 2 in many instances. Time and
(or time and time) again on many occasions. The time of one’s life period of
exceptional enjoyment. Time out of mind a longer time than anyone can
remember. Time was there was a time. [old english]
Time and a half n. One and a half times the normal rate of payment.
Time capsule n. Box etc. Containing objects typical of the present time, buried
for future discovery.
Time clock n. Clock with a device for recording workers’ hours of work.
Time exposure n. Exposure of photographic film for longer than the slowest
normal shutter setting.
Timeless adj. Not affected by the passage of time. timelessly adv. Timelessness
Timeless adj. Not affected by the passage of time. timelessly adv. Timelessness
n.
Timely adj. (-ier, -iest) opportune; coming at the right time. timeliness n.
Time-server n. Derog. Person who changes his or her view to suit the prevailing
circumstances, fashion, etc. time-serving adj.
Time-shift —v. Move from one time to another, esp. Record (a television
programme) for later viewing. —n. Movement from one time to another (the
continual time-shifts make the plot difficult to follow).
Timetable —n. List of times at which events are scheduled to take place, esp.
The arrival and departure of transport or a sequence of lessons. —v. (-ling)
include in or arrange to a timetable; schedule.
Tin —n. 1 silvery-white metallic element, used esp. In alloys and in making tin
plate. 2 container made of tin or tinned iron, esp. Airtight for preserving food. 3
= *tin plate. —v. (-nn-) 1 seal (food) in a tin for preservation. 2 cover or coat
with tin. [old english]
Tincture —n. (often foll. By of) 1 slight flavour or trace. 2 tinge (of a colour). 3
medicinal solution (of a drug) in alcohol (tincture of quinine). —v. (-ring) 1
colour slightly; tinge, flavour. 2 (often foll. By with) affect slightly (with a
quality). [latin: related to *tinge]
Tinder n. Dry substance that readily catches fire from a spark. tindery adj. [old
english]
Tinder-box n. Hist. Box containing tinder, flint, and steel, formerly used for
kindling fires.
Tine n. Prong, tooth, or point of a fork, comb, antler, etc. [old english]
Tin foil n. Foil made of tin, aluminium, or tin alloy, used for wrapping food.
Tin foil n. Foil made of tin, aluminium, or tin alloy, used for wrapping food.
Ting —n. Tinkling sound as of a bell. —v. (cause to) emit this sound. [imitative]
Tinge —v. (-ging) (often foll. By with; often in passive) 1 colour slightly. 2
affect slightly. —n. 1 tendency towards or trace of some colour. 2 slight
admixture of a feeling or quality. [latin tingo tinct-dye]
Tinker —n. 1 itinerant mender of kettles and pans etc. 2 scot. & ir. Gypsy. 3
colloq. Mischievous person or animal. 4 spell of tinkering. —v. 1 (foll. By at,
with) work in an amateurish or desultory way. 2 work as a tinker. [origin
unknown]
Tinkle —v. (-ling) (cause to) make a succession of short light ringing sounds. —
n. 1 tinkling sound. 2 colloq. Telephone call. tinkly adj. [imitative]
Tinnitus n. Med. Condition with ringing in the ears. [latin tinnio tinnit-ring,
tinkle]
Tinny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like tin. 2 flimsy, insubstantial. 3 (of sound) thin
and metallic.
Tint —n. 1 variety of a colour, esp. Made by adding white. 2 tendency towards
or admixture of a different colour (red with a blue tint). 3 faint colour spread
over a surface. —v. Apply a tint to; colour. [tinct: related to *tinge]
Tintinnabulation n. Ringing or tinkling of bells. [latin tintinnabulum bell]
Tiny adj. (-ier, -iest) very small or slight. tinily adv. Tininess n. [origin
unknown]
Tip1 —n. 1 extremity or end, esp. Of a small or tapering thing. 2 small piece or
part attached to the end of a thing. 3 leaf-bud of tea. —v. (-pp-) provide with a
tip. on the tip of one’s tongue about to be said or remembered. Tip of the iceberg
small evident part of something much larger. [old norse]
Tip2 —v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. By over, up) a lean or slant. B cause to do this. 2
(foll. By into etc.) A overturn or cause to overbalance. B discharge the contents
of (a container etc.) In this way. —n. 1 a slight push or tilt. B light stroke. 2
place where material (esp. Refuse) is tipped. tip the scales see *scale2. [origin
uncertain]
Tip3 —v. (-pp-) 1 make a small present of money to, esp. For a service given. 2
name as the likely winner of a race or contest etc. 3 strike or touch lightly. —n. 1
small money present, esp. For a service given. 2 piece of private or special
information, esp. Regarding betting or investment. 3 small or casual piece of
advice. tip off give (a person) a hint or piece of special information or warning.
Tip a person the wink give a person private information. [origin uncertain]
Tip-off n. Hint or warning etc.
Tipper n. (often attrib.) Road haulage vehicle that tips at the back to discharge its
load.
Tippet n. 1 long piece of fur etc. Worn by a woman round the shoulders. 2
similar garment worn by judges, clergy, etc. [probably from *tip1]
Tiptoe —n. The tips of the toes. —v. (-toes, -toed, -toeing) walk on tiptoe, or
very stealthily. —adv. (also on tiptoe) with the heels off the ground.
Tire1 v. (-ring) 1 make or grow weary. 2 exhaust the patience or interest of;
bore. 3 (in passive; foll. By of) have had enough of; be fed up with. [old english]
Tire2 n. Band of metal placed round the rim of a wheel to strengthen it. [perhaps
= archaic tire ‘headdress’]
Tire3 n. (brit. Tyre) rubber covering, usu. Inflated, placed round a wheel to form
a soft contact with the road. [var. Of *tire2]
Tired adj. 1 weary; ready for sleep. 2 (of an idea etc.) Hackneyed. tiredly adv.
Tiredness n.
Tit2 n. tit for tat blow for blow; retaliation. [= earlier tip in tip for tap: see *tip2]
Titbit n. (us tidbit) 1 dainty morsel. 2 piquant item of news etc. [perhaps from
dial. Tid tender]
Titchy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. Very small. [titch small person, from tich, name of
a comedian]
Tithe —n. 1 one-tenth of the annual produce of land or labour, formerly taken as
a tax for the church. 2 tenth part. —v. (-thing) 1 subject to tithes. 2 pay tithes.
[old english, = tenth]
Titivate v. (-ting) (often refl.) Colloq. Smarten up; put the finishing touches to.
titivation n. [earlier tidivate, perhaps from *tidy after cultivate]
Title n. 1 name of a book, work of art, etc. 2 heading of a chapter, document, etc.
3 a = *title-page. B book, magazine, etc., in terms of its title (brought out two
new titles). 4 (usu. In pl.) Caption or credit in a film etc. 5 name indicating a
person’s status (e.g. Queen, professor) or used as a form of address or reference
(e.g. Lord, mr, your grace). 6 championship in sport. 7 law a right to ownership
of property with or without possession. B facts constituting this. C (foll. By to)
just or recognized claim. [latin titulus]
Title-page n. Page at the beginning of a book giving the title, author, etc.
Title role n. Part in a play etc. That gives it its name (e.g. Othello).
Titmouse n. (pl. Titmice) small active tit. [old english tit little, mase titmouse,
assimilated to *mouse]
Tittle n. 1 small written or printed stroke or dot. 2 particle; whit (not one jot or
tittle). [latin: related to *title]
Tittup —v. (-p-or -pp-) go about friskily or jerkily; bob up and down; canter. —
n. Such a gait or movement. [perhaps imitative]
Tizzy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. State of agitation (in a tizzy). [origin unknown]
T-junction n. Road junction at which one road joins another at right angles
without crossing it.
Tl symb. Thallium.
Tm symb. Thulium.
Toadstool n. Fungus, usu. Poisonous, with a round top and slender stalk.
Toady —n. (pl. -ies) sycophant. —v. (foll. By to) (-ies, -ied) behave servilely to;
fawn upon. toadyism n. [contraction of toad-eater]
Toast —n. 1 sliced bread browned on both sides by radiant heat. 2 a person or
thing in whose honour a company is requested to drink. B call to drink or an
instance of drinking in this way. —v. 1 brown by radiant heat. 2 warm (one’s
feet, oneself, etc.) At a fire etc. 3 drink to the health or in honour of (a person or
thing). [french toster roast]
Tobacco n. (pl. -s) 1 plant of american origin with narcotic leaves used for
smoking, chewing, or snuff. 2 its leaves, esp. As prepared for smoking. [spanish
tabaco, of american indian origin]
Toboggan —n. Long light narrow sledge for sliding downhill over snow or ice.
—v. Ride on a toboggan. [canadian french from algonquian]
Toby jug n. Jug or mug in the form of a stout man wearing a three-cornered hat.
[familiar form of the name tobias]
[familiar form of the name tobias]
Tod n. Slang on one’s tod alone; on one’s own. [rhyming slang on one’s tod
sloan]
Today —adv. 1 on this present day. 2 nowadays. —n. 1 this present day. 2
modern times. [old english]
Toddle —v. (-ling) 1 walk with short unsteady steps like a small child. 2 colloq.
A walk, stroll. B (usu. Foll. By off or along) depart. —n. Act of toddling. [origin
unknown]
Toddy n. (pl. -ies) drink of spirits with hot water and sugar etc. [hindustani tar
palm]
Toe —n. 1 any of the five terminal projections of the foot. 2 corresponding part
of an animal. 3 part of a shoe etc. That covers the toes. 4 lower end or tip of an
implement etc. —v. (toes, toed, toeing) touch (a starting-line etc.) With the toes.
on one’s toes alert. Toe the line conform, esp. Under pressure. [old english]
Toffee n. 1 firm or hard sweet made by boiling sugar, butter, etc. 2 this
substance. for toffee slang (prec. By can’t etc.) (denoting incompetence) at all
(they couldn’t sing for toffee). [origin unknown]
Tog1 colloq. —n. (usu. In pl.) Item of clothing. —v. (-gg-) (foll. By out, up)
dress. [apparently originally cant: ultimately related to latin *toga]
dress. [apparently originally cant: ultimately related to latin *toga]
Toga n. Hist. Ancient roman citizen’s loose flowing outer garment. togaed adj.
(also toga’d). [latin]
Toggle switch n. Electric switch with a lever to be moved usu. Up and down.
Toil —v. 1 work laboriously or incessantly. 2 make slow painful progress. —n.
Intensive labour; drudgery. [anglo-french toil(er) dispute]
Toilet n. 1 = *lavatory. 2 process of washing oneself, dressing, etc. (at one’s
toilet). [french toilette diminutive of toile cloth]
Toiletry n. (pl. -ies) (usu. In pl.) Article or cosmetic used in washing, dressing,
etc.
Toing and froing n. Constant movement to and fro; bustle; dispersed activity.
[from to, fro]
Tolerant adj. 1 disposed to tolerate others or their acts or opinions. 2 (foll. By of)
enduring or patient.
Toll1 n. 1 charge to use a bridge, road, etc. 2 cost or damage caused by a disaster
etc. take its toll be accompanied by loss, injury, etc.
Toll2 —v. 1 a (of a bell) sound with slow uniform strokes. B ring (a bell) in this
way. C (of a bell) announce or mark (a death etc.) In this way. 2 strike (the
hour). —n. 1 tolling. 2 stroke of a bell. [(now dial.) Toll entice, pull, from an old
english root]
Tom n. (in full tom-cat) male cat. [abbreviation of the name thomas]
Tomahawk n. N. American indian war-axe. [renape]
Tomato n. (pl. -es) 1 glossy red or yellow pulpy edible fruit. 2 plant bearing this.
[ultimately from mexican tomatl]
Tombola n. Lottery with tickets drawn from a drum for immediate prizes.
[french or italian]
Tom, dick, and harry n. (also tom, dick, or harry) (usu. Prec. By any or every)
person taken at random (any tom, dick, or harry can walk in).
Tommy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. British private soldier. [tommy atkins, name used in
specimens of completed official forms]
Tomorrow —adv. 1 on the day after today. 2 at some future time. —n. 1 the day
after today. 2 the near future. [from to, morrow]
Tom-tom n. 1 primitive drum beaten with the hands. 2 tall drum used in jazz
bands etc. [hindi tamtam, imitative]
Ton n. 1 (in full long ton) unit of weight equal to 2,240 lb (1016.05 kg). 2 (in full
short ton) unit of weight equal to 2,000 lb (907.19 kg). 3 = *metric ton. 4 (in full
displacement ton) unit of measurement of a ship’s weight or volume. 5 (usu. In
pl.) Colloq. Large number or amount (tons of people). 6 slang a speed of 100
m.p.h. B £100. weigh a ton colloq. Be very heavy. [originally the same word as
*tun]
Tonal adj. Of or relating to tone or tonality. tonally adv. [medieval latin: related
Tonal adj. Of or relating to tone or tonality. tonally adv. [medieval latin: related
to *tone]
Tonality n. (pl. -ies) 1 mus. A relationship between the tones of a musical scale.
B observance of a single tonic key as the basis of a composition. 2 colour
scheme of a picture.
Tone —n. 1 musical or vocal sound, esp. With reference to its pitch, quality, and
strength. 2 (often in pl.) Modulation of the voice expressing a particular feeling
or mood (a cheerful tone). 3 manner of expression in writing or speaking. 4 mus.
A musical sound, esp. Of a definite pitch and character. B interval of a major
second, e.g. C–d. 5 a general effect of colour or of light and shade in a picture. B
tint or shade of a colour. 6 prevailing character of the morals and sentiments etc.
In a group. 7 proper firmness of the body. 8 state of good or specified health. —
v. (-ning) 1 give the desired tone to. 2 modify the tone of. 3 (often foll. By to)
attune. 4 (foll. By with) (esp. Of colour) be in harmony with. tone down make or
become softer in tone. Tone up make or become stronger in tone. toneless adj.
Tonelessly adv. Toner n. [greek tonos from teino stretch]
Tongs n.pl. Implement with two arms for grasping coal, sugar, etc. [old english]
Tongue —n. 1 fleshy muscular organ in the mouth used in tasting, licking, and
swallowing, and (in man) for speech. 2 tongue of an ox etc. As food. 3 faculty of
or tendency in speech (a sharp tongue). 4 particular language (the german
tongue). 5 thing like a tongue in shape or position, esp.: a a long low
promontory. B a strip of leather etc. Under the laces in a shoe. C the clapper of a
bell. D the pin of a buckle. E a projecting strip on a board etc. Fitting into the
groove of another. —v. (-guing) use the tongue to articulate (notes) in playing a
wind instrument. find (or lose) one’s tongue be able (or unable) to express
oneself after a shock etc. Hold one’s tongue see *hold1. With one’s tongue in
one’s cheek insincerely or ironically. [old english]
Tonic water n. Carbonated water flavoured with quinine.
Tonsil n. Either of two small organs, one on each side of the root of the tongue.
[latin]
Tonsure —n. 1 shaving of the crown of the head or the entire head, esp. Of a
person entering the priesthood or a monastic order. 2 bare patch made in this
way. —v. (-ring) give a tonsure to. [latin: related to *tonsorial]
Ton-up attrib. Adj. Slang (of a motor cyclist) achieving a speed of 100 m.p.h.,
esp. Habitually.
esp. Habitually.
Toot —n. Short sharp sound as made by a trumpet. —v. 1 sound (a trumpet etc.)
With a short sharp sound. 2 give out such a sound. [probably imitative]
Tooth n. (pl. Teeth) 1 each of a set of hard bony enamel-coated structures in the
jaws of most vertebrates, used for biting and chewing. 2 toothlike part or
projection, e.g. The cog of a gearwheel, the point of a saw or comb, etc. 3 (often
foll. By for) taste; appetite. 4 (in pl.) Force, effectiveness. armed to the teeth
completely and elaborately armed. Fight tooth and nail fight very fiercely. Get
one’s teeth into devote oneself seriously to. In the teeth of 1 in spite of
(opposition or difficulty etc.). 2 contrary to (instructions etc.). 3 directly against
(the wind etc.). toothed adj. (also in comb.). Toothless adj. [old english]
Toothpick n. Small sharp stick for removing food lodged between the teeth.
Tootle v. (-ling) 1 toot gently or repeatedly. 2 (usu. Foll. By along, around, etc.)
Colloq. Move casually.
Top1 —n. 1 highest point or part. 2 a highest rank or place. B person occupying
this. C upper end or head (top of the table). 3 upper surface or part of a thing. 4
stopper of a bottle, lid of a jar, etc. 5 garment for the upper part of the body. 6
utmost degree; height (at the top of his voice). 7 (in pl.) Colloq. Person or thing
of the best quality. 8 (esp. In pl.) Leaves etc. Of a plant grown esp. For its root
(turnip-tops). 9 naut. Platform round the head of the lower mast. 10 = *top gear
(climbed the hill in top). —attrib. Adj. 1 highest in position. 2 highest in degree
or importance. —v. (-pp-) 1 provide with a top, cap, etc. 2 be higher or better
than; surpass; be at the top of (topped the list). 3 reach the top of (a hill etc.). 4
slang kill. 5 golf hit (a ball) above the centre. off the top of one’s head see *head.
On top in a superior position; above. On top of 1 fully in command of. 2 in close
proximity to. 3 in addition to. On top of the world colloq. Exuberant. Over the
top 1 over the parapet of a trench (and into battle). 2 beyond what is normally
acceptable (that joke was over the top). Top off (or up) put an end or the
finishing touch to.
Top-dress v. Apply fertilizer on the top of (earth) instead of ploughing it in. top-
dressing n.
Tope v. (-ping) archaic or literary drink alcohol to excess, esp. Habitually. toper
n. [origin uncertain]
Topgallant n. Mast, sail, yard, or rigging immediately above the topmast and
topsail.
Topi n. (also topee) (pl. -s) hat, esp. A sola topi. [hindi, = hat]
Topi n. (also topee) (pl. -s) hat, esp. A sola topi. [hindi, = hat]
Topiary —adj. Concerned with or formed by clipping shrubs, trees, etc. Into
ornamental shapes. —n. Topiary art. [greek topos place]
Topical adj. Dealing with the news, current affairs, etc. topicality n. Topically
adv.
Topknot n. Knot, tuft, crest, or bow of ribbon, worn or growing on the head.
Topless adj. 1 without a top. 2 a (of clothes) having no upper part. B (of esp. A
woman) bare-breasted. C (of a place) where women go topless; employing bare-
breasted women.
Topping —adj. Archaic slang excellent. —n. Thing that tops another thing, esp.
Sauce on a dessert etc.
Topple v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By over, down) (cause to) fall as if top-heavy. 2
overthrow. [from *top1]
Topsail n. Square sail next above the lowest; fore-and-aft sail on a gaff.
Topside n. 1 outer side of a round of beef. 2 side of a ship above the waterline.
Topsy-turvy adv. & adj. 1 upside down. 2 in utter confusion. [from *top1,
obsolete terve overturn]
Tornado n. (pl. -es) violent storm of small extent with whirling winds. [spanish
tronada thunderstorm]
Torr n. (pl. Same) unit of pressure equal to 133.32 pascals (1/760 of one
atmosphere). [torricelli, name of a physicist]
Torrent n. 1 rushing stream of liquid. 2 (in pl.) Great downpour of rain. 3 (usu.
Foll. By of) violent or copious flow (torrent of abuse). torrential adj. [french
from italian]
Torrid adj. 1 a (of the weather) very hot and dry. B (of land etc.) Parched by
such weather. 2 passionate, intense. [latin torreo tost-parch]
Torrid zone n. The part of the earth between the tropics of cancer and capricorn.
Torsion n. Twisting, esp. Of one end of a body while the other is held fixed.
torsional adj. [latin: related to *tort]
Torso n. (pl. -s) 1 trunk of the human body. 2 statue of this. [latin thyrsus rod]
Tort n. Law breach of duty (other than under contract) leading to liability for
damages. tortious adj. [latin torqueo tort-twist]
Tortilla n. Thin flat orig. Mexican maize cake eaten hot. [spanish diminutive of
torta cake]
Tortoise n. Slow-moving reptile with a horny domed shell. [medieval latin
tortuca]
Tortuous adj. 1 full of twists and turns. 2 devious, circuitous. tortuously adv.
[latin: related to *tort]
Usage tortuous should not be confused with torturous which means ‘involving
torture, excruciating’.
Tory —n. (pl. -ies) 1 colloq. = conservative n. 2. 2 hist. Member of the party that
gave rise to the conservative party (opp. whig). —adj. Colloq. = *conservative
adj. 3. toryism n. [originally = irish outlaw]
Toss —v. 1 throw up (a ball etc.), esp. With the hand. 2 roll about, throw, or be
thrown, restlessly or from side to side. 3 (usu. Foll. By to, away, aside, out, etc.)
Throw (a thing) lightly or carelessly. 4 a throw (a coin) into the air to decide a
choice etc. By the side on which it lands. B (also absol.; often foll. By for) settle
a question or dispute with (a person) in this way. 5 (of a bull etc.) Throw (a
person etc.) Up with the horns. 6 coat (food) with dressing etc. By shaking it. —
n. 1 act of tossing (a coin, the head, etc.). 2 fall, esp. From a horse. toss one’s
head throw it back esp. In anger, impatience, etc. Toss off 1 drink off at a
draught. 2 dispatch (work) rapidly or without effort. 3 coarse slang masturbate.
Toss up toss a coin. [origin unknown]
Tot2 v. (-tt-) 1 (usu. Foll. By up) add (figures etc.). 2 (foll. By up) (of items)
mount up. tot up to amount to. [abbreviation of *total or of latin totum the
whole]
Totalizator n. (also totalisator) 1 device showing the number and amount of bets
staked on a race, to facilitate the division of the total among those backing the
winner. 2 system of betting based on this.
Totalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) collect into a total; find the total of.
Tote2 v. (-ting) esp. Us colloq. Carry, convey (toting a gun). [originally us,
probably of dial. Origin]
T’other adj. & pron. Dial. Or joc. The other. [thet other ‘that other’]
Totter —v. 1 stand or walk unsteadily or feebly. 2 a (of a building etc.) Shake as
if about to collapse. B (of a system of government etc.) Be about to fall. —n.
Unsteady or shaky movement or gait. tottery adj. [dutch]
Touch —v. 1 come into or be in physical contact with (a thing, each other, etc.).
2 (often foll. By with) bring the hand etc. Into contact with. 3 bring (two things)
into mutual contact. 4 rouse tender or painful feelings in. 5 strike lightly. 6 (usu.
With neg.) A disturb, harm, or affect. B have any dealings with. C consume, use
(i don’t touch alcohol). 7 concern. 8 a reach as far as, esp. Momentarily. B (usu.
With neg.) Approach in excellence etc. (can’t touch him for style). 9 modify
(pity touched with fear). 10 (as touched adj.) Colloq. Slightly mad. 11 (usu. Foll.
Touching —adj. Moving; pathetic. —prep. Literary concerning. touchingly adv.
Touchline n. (in various sports) either of the lines marking the side boundaries of
the pitch.
Touchstone n. 1 dark schist or jasper used for testing alloys by marking it with
them. 2 criterion.
Touchwood n. Readily inflammable wood etc., esp. When made soft by fungi.
Touchy adj. (-ier, -iest) apt to take offence; over-sensitive. touchily adv.
Touchiness n.
Tough —adj. 1 hard to break, cut, tear, or chew. 2 able to endure hardship;
hardy. 3 unyielding, stubborn, difficult (it was a tough job). 4 colloq. A acting
sternly; hard (get tough with). B (of circumstances, luck, etc.) Severe, hard. 5
colloq. Criminal or violent. —n. Tough person, esp. A ruffian. toughen v.
Toughness n. [old english]
Tournedos n. (pl. Same) small round thick cut from a fillet of beef. [french]
Tourney —n. (pl. -s) tournament. —v. (-eys, -eyed) take part in a tournament.
[french: related to *turn]
Tousle v. (-ling) 1 make (esp. The hair) untidy. 2 handle roughly. [dial. Touse]
Tout —v. 1 (usu. Foll. By for) solicit custom persistently; pester customers. 2
solicit the custom of (a person) or for (a thing), esp. Sell (tickets) at a price
higher than the official one. 3 spy out the movements and condition of
racehorses in training. —n. Person who touts, esp. Tickets. [old english, = peep]
Tow1 —v. Pull (a boat, vehicle, etc.) Along by a rope etc. —n. Towing or being
towed. have in (or on) tow 1 be towing. 2 be accompanied by and often in charge
of (a person). On tow being towed. [old english]
Tow2 n. Coarse part of flax or hemp prepared for spinning. [low german touw]
Towel —n. Absorbent cloth or paper etc. Used for drying after washing. —v. (-
ll-; us -l-) (often refl.) Wipe or dry with a towel. [french toail(l)e from germanic]
Tower —n. 1 tall structure, often part of a church, castle, etc. 2 fortress etc. With
a tower. 3 tall structure housing machinery etc. (cooling tower; control tower).
—v. 1 (usu. Foll. By above, up) reach or be high or above; be superior. 2 (as
towering adj.) A high, lofty (towering intellect). B violent (towering rage).
[greek turris]
Town n. 1 a densely populated built-up defined area, between a city and a village
in size. B densely populated area, esp. As opposed to the country. 2 a london or
the chief city or town in an area (went up to town). B central business area in a
neighbourhood. go to town colloq. Do something with great energy or
enthusiasm. On the town colloq. Enjoying night-life in a town. [old english]
Town clerk n. Us & hist. Official in charge of the records etc. Of a town.
Town hall n. Headquarters of local government, with public meeting rooms etc.
Town house n. 1 town residence, esp. Of a person with a house in the country. 2
terrace house. 3 house in a planned group in a town.
Township n. 1 s.afr. Urban area set aside for black occupation. 2 us & can. A
division of a county. B district six miles square. 3 hist. Small town or village
forming part of a large parish. 4 austral. & nz small town.
Tow-path n. Path by a river or canal, orig. Used for towing a boat by horse.
Toxic adj. 1 poisonous. 2 of poison. toxicity n. [greek toxikon poison for arrows]
Trace2 n. Each of the two side-straps, chains, or ropes by which a horse draws a
vehicle. kick over the traces become insubordinate or reckless. [french trais, pl.
Of *trait]
Of *trait]
Tracer n. 1 bullet etc. That is visible in flight because of flames etc. Emitted. 2
artificial radioactive isotope which can be followed through the body by the
radiation it produces.
Tracery n. (pl. -ies) 1 ornamental stone openwork, esp. In the upper part of a
gothic window. 2 fine decorative pattern.
Track —n. 1 a mark(s) left by a person, animal, vehicle, etc. B (in pl.) Such
marks, esp. Footprints. 2 rough path, esp. One beaten by use. 3 continuous
railway line. 4 a racecourse; circuit. B prepared course for runners etc. 5 a
groove on a gramophone record. B section of a record, cd, or magnetic tape
containing one song etc. C lengthwise strip of magnetic tape containing a single
sequence of signals. 6 line of travel (track of the comet). 7 band round the
wheels of a tank etc. 8 line of thought or action. —v. 1 follow the track of. 2
trace (a course, development, etc.) By vestiges. 3 (often foll. By back, in, etc.)
(of a film or television camera) move in relation to the subject being filmed. in
one’s tracks colloq. Where one stands, instantly (stopped him in his tracks).
Keep (or lose) track of follow (or fail to follow) the course of. Make tracks
colloq. Depart. Make tracks for colloq. Go in pursuit of or towards. Off the track
away from the subject. Track down reach or capture by tracking. tracker n.
[french trac]
Trade —n. 1 a buying and selling. B this between nations etc. C business
conducted for profit (esp. As distinct from a profession). D business of a
specified nature or time (christmas trade; tourist trade). 2 skilled craft practised
professionally. 3 (usu. Prec. By the) people engaged in a specific trade (the trade
will never agree). 4 us transaction, esp. A swap. 5 (usu. In pl.) Trade wind. —v.
(-ding) 1 (often foll. By in, with) engage in trade; buy and sell. 2 a exchange in
commerce. B exchange (insults, blows, etc.). C us swap. 3 (usu. Foll. By with,
for) have a transaction with a person for a thing. trade in (often foll. By for)
exchange (esp. A used car) in part payment for another. Trade off exchange, esp.
As a compromise. Trade on take advantage of. tradable adj. Tradeable adj. [low
german, = track: related to *tread]
Tradescantia n. (usu. Trailing) plant with large blue, white, or pink flowers.
[tradescant, name of a naturalist]
Trade secret n. 1 secret device or technique used esp. In a trade. 2 joc. Any
secret.
Trades union congress n. Official representative body of british trade unions.
Trade wind n. Wind blowing continually towards the equator and deflected
westward.
Traditional adj. 1 of, based on, or obtained by tradition. 2 (of jazz) in the style of
the early 20th c. traditionally adv.
Traffic —n. 1 vehicles moving on a public highway or in the air or at sea. 2 (usu.
Foll. By in) trade, esp. Illegal (drugs traffic). 3 coming and going of people or
goods by road, rail, air, sea, etc. 4 dealings between people etc. (had no traffic
with them). 5 messages etc. Transmitted through a communications system;
volume of this. —v. (-ck-) 1 (usu. Foll. By in) deal in something, esp. Illegally. 2
deal in; barter. trafficker n. [french from italian]
Traffic island n. Raised area in a road to divide traffic streams and for
pedestrians to use in crossing.
Traffic warden n. Official employed to help control road traffic and esp. Parking.
Tragedy n. (pl. -ies) 1 serious accident, disaster, etc.; sad event. 2 a play dealing
Tragedy n. (pl. -ies) 1 serious accident, disaster, etc.; sad event. 2 a play dealing
with tragic events and ending unhappily, esp. With the downfall of the
protagonist. B such plays as a genre. [greek tragoidia]
Tragicomedy n. (pl. -ies) play or situation with a mixture of comedy and tragedy.
tragicomic adj.
Trail —n. 1 track or scent left by a moving thing, person, etc. 2 beaten path, esp.
Through a wild region. 3 long line of people or things following behind
something. 4 part dragging behind a thing or person. —v. 1 draw or be drawn
along behind, esp. On the ground. 2 (often foll. By behind) walk wearily. 3
follow the trail of; pursue. 4 be losing in a contest (trailing by three points). 5
(usu. Foll. By away, off) peter out; tail off. 6 a (of a plant etc.) Grow or hang
over a wall, along the ground, etc. B hang loosely. 7 (often refl.) Drag (oneself,
one’s limbs, etc.) Along wearily etc. [french or low german]
Trail-blazer n. 1 person who marks a new track through wild country. 2 pioneer.
trail-blazing n.
Trailer n. 1 set of brief extracts from a film etc., used to advertise it in advance. 2
vehicle towed by another, esp.: a the rear section of an articulated lorry. B an
open cart. C a platform for transporting a boat etc. D us a caravan.
Train —v. 1 a (often foll. By to + infin.) Teach (a person, animal, oneself, etc.)
A specified skill, esp. By practice. B undergo this process (trained as a teacher).
2 bring or come to physical efficiency by exercise, diet, etc. 3 (often foll. By
along, up) guide the growth of (a plant). 4 (usu. As trained adj.) Make (the mind,
eye, etc.) Discerning through practice etc. 5 (often foll. By on) point or aim (a
gun, camera, etc.) At an object etc. —n. 1 series of railway carriages or trucks
drawn by an engine. 2 thing dragged along behind or forming the back part of a
dress, robe, etc. 3 succession or series of people, things, events, etc. (train of
thought). 4 body of followers; retinue. in train properly arranged or directed.
trainee n. [latin traho draw]
Traipse colloq. —v. (-sing) tramp or trudge wearily. —n. Tedious journey on
foot. [origin unknown]
Trajectory n. (pl. -ies) path of an object moving under given forces. [latin traicio
-ject-throw across]
Tramlines n.pl. 1 rails for a tramcar. 2 colloq. Pair of long parallel lines at the
sides of a tennis or badminton court.
Tramp —v. 1 a walk heavily and firmly. B go on foot, esp. A distance. 2 a cross
on foot, esp. Wearily or reluctantly. B cover (a distance) in this way. 3 (often
foll. By down) tread on; trample; stamp on. 4 live as a tramp. —n. 1 itinerant
vagrant or beggar. 2 sound of a person, or esp. People, walking, marching, etc. 3
long walk. 4 slang derog. Promiscuous woman. [germanic]
Trample v. (-ling) 1 tread under foot. 2 press down or crush in this way. trample
on 1 tread heavily on. 2 treat roughly or with contempt. [from *tramp]
Transact v. Perform or carry through (business). [latin: related to *act]
Transcribe v. (-bing) 1 copy out. 2 write out (shorthand, notes, etc.) In full. 3
record for subsequent reproduction. 4 arrange (music) for a different instrument
etc. transcriber n. Transcription n. [latin transcribo -script-]
Transfer —v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. By to) a convey, remove, or hand over (a thing
etc.). B make over the possession of (property, a ticket, rights, etc.) To a person.
2 change or move to another group, club, department, etc. 3 change from one
station, route, etc., to another on a journey. 4 convey (a design) from one surface
to another. 5 change (meaning) by extension or metaphor. —n. 1 transferring or
being transferred. 2 design etc. Conveyed or to be conveyed from one surface to
another. 3 football player etc. Who is transferred. 4 document effecting
conveyance of property, a right, etc. transferable adj. [latin fero lat-bear]
Transistorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) equip with transistors (rather than
valves).
Transitive adj. (of a verb) taking a direct object (whether expressed or implied),
e.g. Saw in saw the donkey, saw that she was ill. [latin: related to *transit]
Translate v. (-ting) 1 (also absol.) (often foll. By into) express the sense of (a
word, text, etc.) In another language or in another, esp. Simpler, form. 2 be
translatable, bear translation (does not translate well). 3 interpret (translated his
silence as dissent). 4 move or change, esp. From one person, place, or condition,
to another. translatable adj. Translation n. Translator n. [latin: related to
*transfer]
Transmigrate v. (-ting) 1 (of the soul) pass into a different body. 2 migrate.
transmigration n. [latin]
Transmit v. (-tt-) 1 a pass or hand on; transfer (transmitted the message; how
diseases are transmitted). B communicate (ideas, emotions, etc.). 2 a allow (heat,
light, sound, electricity, etc.) To pass through. B be a medium for (ideas,
emotions, etc.) (his message transmits hope). 3 broadcast (a radio or television
emotions, etc.) (his message transmits hope). 3 broadcast (a radio or television
programme). transmissible adj. Transmittable adj. [latin mitto miss-send]
Transmute v. (-ting) 1 change the form, nature, or substance of. 2 hist. Change
(base metals) into gold. transmutation n. [latin muto change]
Transparent adj. 1 allowing light to pass through so that bodies can be distinctly
seen. 2 a (of a disguise, pretext, etc.) Easily seen through. B (of a quality etc.)
Evident; obvious. 3 easily understood; frank. transparently adv. [latin pareo
appear]
Transport —v. 1 take or carry (a person, goods, etc.) To another place. 2 hist.
Deport (a criminal) to a penal colony. 3 (as transported adj.) (usu. Foll. By with)
affected with strong emotion. —n. 1 a system of conveying people, goods, etc.,
from place to place. B means of this (our transport has arrived). 2 ship, aircraft,
etc. Used to carry soldiers, stores, etc. 3 (esp. In pl.) Vehement emotion
(transports of joy). transportable adj. [latin porto carry]
Transuranic adj. (of a chemical element) having a higher atomic number than
uranium.
Trap1 —n. 1 device, often baited, for catching animals. 2 trick betraying a
person into speech or an act. 3 arrangement to catch an unsuspecting person. 4
device for hurling an object, e.g. A clay pigeon, into the air to be shot at. 5
compartment from which a greyhound is released at the start of a race. 6 device
that sends a ball into the air. 7 curve in a downpipe etc. That fills with liquid and
forms a seal against the return of gases. 8 two-wheeled carriage (pony and trap).
9 = *trapdoor. 10 slang mouth (esp. Shut one’s trap). —v. (-pp-) 1 catch (an
animal) in a trap. 2 catch or catch out (a person) by means of a trick etc. 3 stop
and retain in or as in a trap. 4 provide (a place) with traps. [old english]
Trapezium n. (pl. -s or -zia) 1 quadrilateral with only one pair of sides parallel. 2
us = *trapezoid 1. [greek trapezion]
Trapper n. Person who traps wild animals, esp. For their fur.
Trappist —n. Monk of an order vowed to silence. —adj. Of this order. [la trappe
in normandy]
Travail literary —n. 1 painful effort. 2 pangs of childbirth. —v. Make a painful
effort, esp. In childbirth. [french travaillier]
Travel —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 go from one place to another; make a journey, esp. A
long one or abroad. 2 a journey along or through (a country). B cover (a
distance) in travelling. 3 colloq. Withstand a long journey (wines that do not
travel). 4 go from place to place as a salesman. 5 move or proceed as specified
(light travels faster than sound).
Travel agency n. Agency that makes the necessary arrangements for travellers.
travel agent n.
Traveller’s cheque n. Cheque for a fixed amount that may be cashed on signature
abroad.
abroad.
Traverse —v. (-sing) 1 travel or lie across (traversed the country; pit traversed
by a beam). 2 consider or discuss the whole extent of (a subject). —n. 1
sideways movement. 2 traversing. 3 thing that crosses another. traversal n.
[french: related to *transverse]
Trawl —v. 1 fish with a trawl or seine. 2 a catch by trawling. B (often foll. By
through) search thoroughly (trawled her memory for their names). —n. 1 act of
trawling. 2 (in full trawl-net) large wide-mouthed fishing-net dragged by a boat
along the sea bottom. [probably dutch traghel drag-net]
along the sea bottom. [probably dutch traghel drag-net]
Tray n. 1 flat board, usu. With a raised rim, for carrying dishes. 2 shallow lidless
box for papers or small articles, sometimes forming a drawer in a cabinet etc.
[old english]
Treacherous adj. 1 guilty of or involving treachery. 2 (of the weather, ice, the
memory, etc.) Likely to fail or give way. treacherously adv. [french from trichier
cheat: related to *trick]
Tread —v. (past trod; past part. Trodden or trod) 1 (often foll. By on) set down
one’s foot; walk, step. 2 a walk on. B (often foll. By down) press or crush with
the feet. 3 perform (steps etc.) By walking. 4 (often foll. By in, into) press down
into the ground with the feet (trod dirt into the carpet). —n. 1 manner or sound
of walking. 2 top surface of a step or stair. 3 thick moulded part of a vehicle tyre
for gripping the road. 4 a part of a wheel that touches the ground or rail. B part
of a rail that the wheels touch. 5 part of the sole of a shoe that rests on the
ground. tread the boards be an actor. Tread on air feel elated. Tread on a
person’s toes offend a person; encroach on a person’s privileges etc. Tread water
maintain an upright position in water by moving the feet and hands. [old english]
Treadle n. Lever worked by the foot and imparting motion to a machine. [old
english: related to *tread]
Treadwheel n. = *treadmill 1, 2.
Usage the crime of petty treason was abolished in 1828. This is why high
treason, originally distinguished from petty treason, now means the same as
treason.
Treasure hunt n. 1 search for treasure. 2 game in which players seek a hidden
object from a series of clues.
Treasury bill n. Bill of exchange issued by the government to raise money for
temporary needs.
Treat —v. 1 act or behave towards or deal with (a person or thing) in a certain
way (treated me kindly; treat it as a joke). 2 apply a process to (treat it with
acid). 3 apply medical care or attention to. 4 present or deal with (a subject) in
literature or art. 5 (often foll. By to) provide with food, drink, or entertainment at
one’s own expense (treated us to dinner). 6 (often foll. By with) negotiate terms
(with a person). 7 (often foll. By of) give a spoken or written exposition. —n. 1
event or circumstance (esp. When unexpected or unusual) that gives great
pleasure. 2 meal, entertainment, etc., designed to do this. 3 (prec. By a)
extremely good or well (they looked a treat; has come on a treat). treatable adj.
[latin tracto handle]
Treatment n. 1 process or manner of behaving towards or dealing with a person
or thing. 2 medical care or attention. 3 manner of treating a subject in literature
or art. 4 (prec. By the) colloq. The customary way of dealing with a person,
situation, etc. (got the full treatment).
Treble —adj. 1 a threefold. B triple. C three times as much or many (treble the
amount). 2 high-pitched. —n. 1 treble quantity or thing. 2 hit on the narrow band
between the two middle circles of a dartboard, scoring treble. 3 a mus. =
*soprano (esp. A boy’s voice or part, or an instrument). B high-pitched voice. 4
high-frequency output of a radio, record-player, etc. —v. (-ling) make or become
three times as much or many; increase threefold; multiply by three. trebly adv.
[latin: related to *triple]
Treble clef n. Clef placing the g above middle c on the second lowest line of the
staff.
Tree —n. 1 perennial plant with a woody self-supporting main stem or trunk and
usu. Unbranched for some distance above the ground. 2 piece or frame of wood
etc. For various purposes (shoe-tree). 3 = *family tree. —v. (trees; treed) force to
take refuge in a tree.
Tree surgeon n. Person who treats decayed trees in order to preserve them.
Trefoil n. 1 leguminous plant with leaves of three leaflets, esp. Clover. 2 three-
lobed ornamentation, esp. In tracery windows. [anglo-french: related to tri-,
foil2]
Trek orig. S.afr. —v. (-kk-) 1 travel or make one’s way arduously. 2 esp. Hist.
Migrate or journey with one’s belongings by ox-wagon. —n. 1 a long or arduous
journey or walk (quite a trek to the launderette). B each stage of this. 2 organized
migration of a body of people. trekker n. [dutch, = draw]
Trellis n. (in full trellis-work) lattice of light wooden or metal bars, esp. As a
support for climbing plants. [french trelis]
Tremor n. 1 shaking, quivering. 2 thrill (of fear, exultation, etc.). 3 (in full earth
tremor) slight earthquake. [latin tremo tremble]
Trench —n. 1 long narrow usu. Deep ditch. 2 mil. This dug by troops as a shelter
from enemy fire. —v. 1 dig a trench or trenches in (the ground). 2 turn over the
earth of (a field, garden, etc.) By digging a succession of ditches. [french
trenche, -ier cut]
Trenchant adj. (of style or language etc.) Incisive, terse, vigorous. trenchancy n.
Trenchantly adv. [french: related to *trench]
Trend —n. General direction and tendency (esp. Of events, fashion, or opinion).
—v. 1 bend or turn away in a specified direction. 2 have a general tendency. [old
english]
Trendy colloq.; often derog. —adj. (-ier, -iest) fashionable. —n. (pl. -ies)
fashionable person. trendily adv. Trendiness n.
Trepan —n. Cylindrical saw formerly used by surgeons for removing part of the
skull. —v. (-nn-) perforate (the skull) with a trepan. [greek trupanon auger]
Tress n. 1 long lock of human (esp. Female) hair. 2 (in pl.) Woman’s or girl’s
head of hair. [french]
Trestle n. 1 supporting structure for a table etc., consisting of two frames fixed at
an angle or hinged, or of a bar with two divergent pairs of legs. 2 (in full trestle-
table) table of a board or boards on trestles etc. 3 (in full trestle-work) open
braced framework to support a bridge etc. [latin transtrum cross-beam]
Trews n.pl. Close-fitting usu. Tartan trousers. [irish and gaelic: related to
*trousers]
Triad n. 1 group of three (esp. Notes in a chord). 2 the number three. 3 (also
triad) chinese secret society, usu. Criminal. triadic adj. [latin from greek]
Triangle n. 1 plane figure with three sides and angles. 2 any three things not in a
straight line, with imaginary lines joining them. 3 implement of this shape. 4
musical instrument consisting of a steel rod bent into a triangle, struck with a
small steel rod. 5 situation, esp. An emotional relationship, involving three
people. triangular adj. [latin: related to *tri-]
Triangulate v. (-ting) measure and map out (an area) by dividing it into triangles.
triangulation n.
Triassic geol. —adj. Of the earliest period of the mesozoic era. —n. This period.
[related to *triad]
Triathlon n. Athletic contest of three events for all competitors. [from tri-after
decathlon]
Tribology n. The study of friction, wear, lubrication, and the design of bearings.
[greek tribo rub]
Tributary —n. (pl. -ies) 1 river or stream flowing into a larger river or lake. 2
hist. Person or state paying or subject to tribute. —adj. 1 (of a river etc.) That is
a tributary. 2 hist. A paying tribute. B serving as tribute. [latin: related to
*tribute]
Trice n. in a trice in an instant. [trice haul up, from low german and dutch]
Triceps n. Muscle (esp. In the upper arm) with three points of attachment at one
end. [latin caput head]
Triceratops n. Dinosaur with three sharp horns on the forehead and a wavy-
edged collar round the neck. [greek, = three-horned face]
Trichromatic adj. 1 having or using three colours. 2 (of vision) having the
normal three colour-sensations, i.e. Red, green, and purple.
Trickle —v. (-ling) 1 (cause to) flow in drops or a small stream. 2 come or go
slowly or gradually (information trickles out). —n. Trickling flow. [probably
imitative]
Trickle charger n. Electrical charger for batteries that works at a steady slow
rate.
Tricky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 requiring care and adroitness (tricky job). 2 crafty,
deceitful. trickily adv. Trickiness n.
Tricolor n. (brit. Tricolour) flag of three bands of different colours, esp. The
french or irish national flags. [french: related to *tri-]
Tricolour n. (us tricolor) flag of three bands of different colours, esp. The french
or irish national flags. [french: related to *tri-]
Tridentine adj. Of the council of trent, held at trento in italy 1545–63, esp. As
the basis of roman catholic orthodoxy. [medieval latin tridentum trento]
Triennial adj. Lasting, or recurring every, three years. [latin annus year]
Triforium n. (pl. -ria) gallery or arcade above the arches of the nave, choir, and
transepts of a church. [anglo-latin]
Trigger —n. 1 movable device for releasing a spring or catch and so setting off a
mechanism (esp. That of a gun). 2 event, occurrence, etc., that sets off a chain
reaction. —v. (often foll. By off) set (an action or process) in motion;
precipitate. quick on the trigger quick to respond. [tricker from dutch trekker
from trekken pull]
Trilateral adj. 1 of, on, or with three sides. 2 involving three parties. [latin:
related to *tri-]
Trilby n. (pl. -ies) soft felt hat with a narrow brim and indented crown. [trilby,
name of a character in a novel by g. Du maurier]
name of a character in a novel by g. Du maurier]
Trill —n. 1 quavering sound, esp. A rapid alternation of sung or played notes. 2
bird’s warbling. 3 pronunciation of r with vibration of the tongue. —v. 1 produce
a trill. 2 warble (a song) or pronounce (r etc.) With a trill. [italian]
Trillion n. (pl. Same) 1 a million million (1012). 2 (now less often) a million
million million (1018). trillionth adj. & n. [french or italian: related to tri-,
million, after billion]
Trilobite n. A kind of fossil marine arthropod. [from *tri-, greek lobos lobe]
Trilogy n. (pl. -ies) group of three related novels, plays, operas, etc.
Trim —v. (-mm-) 1 a make neat or of the required size or form, esp. By cutting
away irregular or unwanted parts. B set in good order. 2 (foll. By off, away) cut
off (unwanted parts). 3 ornament, decorate. 4 adjust the balance of (a ship or
aircraft) by arranging its cargo etc. 5 arrange (sails) to suit the wind. 6 a
associate oneself with currently prevailing views, esp. To advance oneself. B
hold a middle course in politics or opinion. 7 colloq. A rebuke sharply. B thrash.
C get the better of in a bargain etc. —n. 1 state of readiness or fitness (in perfect
trim). 2 ornament or decorative material. 3 trimming of a person’s hair. —adj.
(trimmer, trimmest) 1 neat or spruce. 2 in good order; well arranged or equipped.
[old english, = make firm]
Trimaran n. Vessel like a catamaran, with three hulls side by side. [from
*catamaran]
Trimeter n. Prosody line of verse of three measures. [greek: see tri-, -meter]
Trinity n. (pl. -ies) 1 state of being three. 2 group of three. 3 (the trinity or holy
trinity) theol. The three persons of the christian godhead (father, son, and holy
spirit). [latin trinitas from trinus threefold]
Trio n. (pl. -s) 1 group of three. 2 mus. A composition for three performers. B
Trio n. (pl. -s) 1 group of three. 2 mus. A composition for three performers. B
the performers. [french and italian from latin]
Trip —v. (-pp-) 1 a (often foll. By up) (cause to) stumble, esp. By catching the
feet. B (foll. By up) (cause to) make a slip or blunder. 2 a move with quick light
steps. B (of a rhythm etc.) Run lightly. 3 make an excursion to a place. 4 a
operate (a mechanism) suddenly by knocking aside a catch etc. B automatically
cut out. 5 slang have a hallucinatory experience caused by a drug. —n. 1 journey
or excursion, esp. For pleasure. 2 a stumble or blunder. B tripping or being
tripped up. 3 nimble step. 4 slang drug-induced hallucinatory experience. 5
device for tripping a mechanism etc. [dutch trippen skip, hop]
Triple crown n. Winning of all three of a group of sporting events, esp. In rugby.
Triplet n. 1 each of three children or animals born at one birth. 2 set of three
things, esp. Three equal notes played in the time of two of the same value.
Tripod n. 1 three-legged stand for a camera etc. 2 stool, table, or utensil resting
on three feet or legs. [greek, = three-footed]
Triptych n. Picture or relief carving on three panels, usu. Hinged together at the
sides. [after *diptych]
Trireme n. Ancient greek warship, with three files of oarsmen on each side.
[latin remus oar]
Trisect v. Divide into three (usu. Equal) parts. trisection n. [latin seco sect-cut]
Trite adj. (of a phrase, observation, etc.) Hackneyed. tritely adv. Triteness n.
[latin tero trit-rub]
Tritium n. Radioactive isotope of hydrogen with a mass about three times that of
ordinary hydrogen. [greek tritos third]
Triumphalism n. Excessive exultation over the victories of one’s own party etc.
triumphalist adj. & n.
Triumvirate n. Ruling group of three men, esp. In ancient rome. [latin tres three,
Triumvirate n. Ruling group of three men, esp. In ancient rome. [latin tres three,
vir man]
Trivet n. Iron tripod or bracket for a pot or kettle to stand on. [apparently from
latin tripes three-footed]
Trochee n. Prosody metrical foot consisting of one long followed by one short
syllable (&trochee.). trochaic adj. [greek, = running]
Troglodyte n. Cave-dweller. [greek trogle hole]
Troika n. 1 a russian vehicle with a team of three horses abreast. B this team. 2
group of three people, esp. As an administrative council. [russian]
Trojan —adj. Of ancient troy in asia minor. —n. 1 native or inhabitant of troy. 2
person who works, fights, etc. Courageously. [latin troia troy]
Trojan horse n. 1 hollow wooden horse used by the greeks to enter troy. 2 person
or device planted to bring about an enemy’s downfall.
Troll2 v. Fish by drawing bait along in the water. [perhaps related to french
troller to quest]
Trolley n. (pl. -s) 1 table, stand, or basket on wheels or castors for serving food,
transporting luggage etc., gathering purchases in a supermarket, etc. 2 low truck
running on rails. 3 (in full trolley-wheel) wheel attached to a pole etc. Used for
collecting current from an overhead electric wire to drive a vehicle. [dial.,
perhaps from *troll2]
Tropic —n. 1 parallel of latitude 23°27´ north (tropic of cancer) or south (tropic
of capricorn) of the equator. 2 each of two corresponding circles on the celestial
sphere where the sun appears to turn when at its greatest declination. 3 (the
tropics) region between the tropics of cancer and capricorn. —adj. = *tropical.
[greek trope turn]
Trot —v. (-tt-) 1 (of a person) run at a moderate pace. 2 (of a horse) proceed at a
steady pace faster than a walk, lifting each diagonal pair of legs alternately. 3
colloq. Walk, go. 4 cause (a horse or person) to trot. 5 traverse (a distance) at a
trot. —n. 1 action or exercise of trotting (proceed at a trot; went for a trot). 2 (the
trots) slang diarrhoea. on the trot colloq. 1 in succession (six days on the trot). 2
continually busy (kept me on the trot). Trot out 1 colloq. Introduce (an opinion
etc.) Tediously or repeatedly. 2 cause (a horse) to trot to show his paces. [french]
Troth n. Archaic 1 faith, loyalty. 2 truth. pledge (or plight) one’s troth pledge
one’s word, esp. In marriage or betrothal. [old english: related to *truth]
Trotter n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Animal’s foot as food. 2 horse bred or trained for
trotting.
Trough n. 1 long narrow open receptacle for water, animal feed, etc. 2 channel or
hollow like this. 3 elongated region of low barometric pressure. [old english]
Trousers n.pl. 1 two-legged outer garment reaching from the waist usu. To the
ankles. 2 (trouser) (attrib.) Designating part of this (trouser leg). wear the
trousers (esp. Of a wife) dominate in a marriage. trousered adj. [in pl. After
drawers: irish and gaelic triubhas trews]
Trout n. (pl. Same or -s) fish related to the salmon, valued as food. [latin tructa]
Trowel n. 1 small flat-bladed tool for spreading mortar etc. 2 scoop for lifting
small plants or earth. [latin trulla]
Troy n. (in full troy weight) system of weights used for precious metals and
gems, with a pound of 12 ounces or 5,760 grains; 1 oz. Troy = 31.1035 g.
[probably troyes in france]
Truant —n. 1 child who stays away from school. 2 person who avoids work etc.
—adj. Shirking, idle, wandering. —v. (also play truant) be a truant. truancy n.
(pl. -ies). [french, probably from celtic]
Truck1 n. 1 lorry. 2 open railway wagon for freight. [perhaps from *truckle]
Truck2 n. Dealings. have no truck with avoid dealing with. [french troquer]
Truckle —n. (in full truckle-bed) low bed on wheels, stored under a larger bed.
—v. (-ling) (foll. By to) submit obsequiously. [latin trochlea pulley]
True —adj. (truer, truest) 1 in accordance with fact or reality (a true story). 2
genuine; rightly or strictly so called. 3 (often foll. By to) loyal, faithful. 4 (foll.
By to) accurately conforming to (a type or standard) (true to form). 5 correctly
positioned or balanced; upright, level. 6 exact, accurate (a true copy). —adv.
True-love n. Sweetheart.
True north n. North according to the earth’s axis, not magnetic north.
Trug n. Shallow oblong garden-basket usu. Of wood strips. [perhaps a dial. Var.
Of *trough]
Truism n. Statement too hackneyed to be worth making, e.g. ‘nothing lasts for
ever’.
Truly adv. 1 sincerely (am truly grateful). 2 really, indeed (truly, i do not know).
3 loyally (served them truly). 4 accurately (is not truly depicted). 5 properly
(well and truly). [old english: related to *true]
Trumpery —n. (pl. -ies) 1 worthless finery. 2 worthless thing; rubbish. —adj.
Showy but worthless; trashy; shallow. [french tromperie deceit]
Trumpet —n. 1 brass instrument with a flared bell and bright penetrating tone. 2
trumpet-shaped thing (ear-trumpet). 3 sound of or like a trumpet. —v. (-t-) 1 a
blow a trumpet. B (of an enraged elephant etc.) Make a trumpet-like cry. 2
proclaim loudly. trumpeter n. [french diminutive: related to *trump2]
Truncate v. (-ting) cut the top or the end from; shorten. truncation n. [latin:
related to *trunk]
Trundle v. (-ling) roll or move, esp. Heavily or noisily. [var. Of obsolete or dial.
Trendle: related to *trend]
Trunk n. 1 main stem of a tree. 2 body without the limbs and head. 3 large box
with a hinged lid for luggage, storage, etc. 4 us boot of a car. 5 elephant’s
elongated prehensile nose. 6 (in pl.) Men’s close-fitting shorts worn for
swimming etc. [latin truncus cut short]
Truss —n. 1 framework supporting a roof, bridge, etc. 2 surgical appliance worn
to support a hernia. 3 bundle of hay or straw. 4 compact terminal cluster of
flowers or fruit. —v. 1 tie up (a fowl) for cooking. 2 (often foll. By up) tie (a
person) up with the arms to the sides. 3 support (a roof or bridge etc.) With a
truss or trusses. [french]
Trust —n. 1 firm belief in the reliability, truth, or strength etc. Of a person or
thing. 2 confident expectation. 3 responsibility (position of great trust). 4
commercial credit (obtained goods on trust). 5 law a arrangement whereby a
person or group manages property on another’s behalf. B property so held. C
body of trustees. 6 association of companies for reducing competition etc. —v. 1
place trust in; believe in; rely on the character or behaviour of.
Trusty —adj. (-ier, -iest) archaic or joc. Trustworthy (a trusty steed). —n. (pl. -
ies) prisoner given special privileges for good behaviour.
Truth n. (pl. Truths) 1 quality or state of being true. 2 what is true. in truth
literary truly, really. [old english: related to *true]
Truthful adj. 1 habitually speaking the truth. 2 (of a story etc.) True. truthfully
adv. Truthfulness n.
Try —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make an effort with a view to success (often foll. By to +
infin.; colloq. Foll. By and + infin.: tried to be on time; try and be early). 2 make
an effort to achieve (tried my best). 3 a test by use or experiment. B test the
qualities of. 4 make severe demands on (tries my patience). 5 examine the
effectiveness of for a purpose (try cold water; have you tried kicking it?). 6
ascertain the state of fastening of (a door, window, etc.). 7 a investigate and
decide (a case or issue) judicially. B (often foll. By for) subject (a person) to trial
(tried for murder). 8 (foll. By for) apply or compete for; seek to reach or attain
(try for a gold medal). —n. (pl. -ies) 1 effort to accomplish something. 2 rugby
touching-down of the ball behind the opposing goal-line, scoring points and
entitling the scoring side to a kick at the goal. try one’s hand test how skilful one
is, esp. At the first attempt. Try it on colloq. Try to get away with an
unreasonable request etc. Try on put on (clothes etc.) To see if they fit etc. Try
out put to the test, test thoroughly. [originally = separate, distinguish, from
french trier sift]
Usage use of the verb try with and (see sense 1) is uncommon in negative
contexts (except in the imperative, e.g. Don’t try and get the better of me) and in
the past tense.
Tsar n. (also czar) (fem. Tsarina) hist. Title of the former emperors of russia.
tsarist n. (usu. Attrib.). [latin caesar]
T-shirt n. Short-sleeved casual top having the form of a t when spread out.
Tsunami n. (pl. -s) long high sea wave caused by underwater earthquakes etc.
[japanese]
Tub —n. 1 open flat-bottomed usu. Round vessel. 2 tub-shaped (usu. Plastic)
carton. 3 colloq. Bath. 4 colloq. Clumsy slow boat. —v. (-bb-) plant, bathe, or
wash in a tub. [probably low german or dutch]
Tube —n. 1 long hollow cylinder. 2 soft metal or plastic cylinder sealed at one
end and holding a semi-liquid substance (tube of toothpaste). 3 hollow
cylindrical organ in the body. 4 (often prec. By the) colloq. London underground
(went by tube). 5 a cathode-ray tube, esp. In a television set. B (prec. By the)
esp. Us colloq. Television. 6 us thermionic valve. 7 = *inner tube. 8 austral.
esp. Us colloq. Television. 6 us thermionic valve. 7 = *inner tube. 8 austral.
Slang can of beer. —v. (-bing) 1 equip with tubes. 2 enclose in a tube. [latin]
Tuber n. 1 thick rounded part of a stem or rhizome, usu. Found underground and
covered with modified buds, e.g. In a potato. 2 similar root of a dahlia etc. [latin,
= hump, swelling]
Tuck —v. 1 (often foll. By in, up) a draw, fold, or turn the outer or end parts of
(cloth or clothes etc.) Close together so as to be held; push in the edge of (a
thing) so as to confine it (tucked his shirt into his trousers). B push in the edges
of bedclothes around (a person) (came to tuck me in). 2 draw together into a
small space (tucked its head under its wing). 3 stow (a thing) away in a specified
place or way (tucked it in a corner; tucked it out of sight). 4 make a stitched fold
in (cloth etc.). —n. 1 flattened usu. Stitched fold in cloth etc. 2 colloq. Food, esp.
Cakes and sweets (also attrib.: tuck box). tuck in colloq. Eat heartily. Tuck into
(or away) colloq. Eat (food) heartily (tucked into their dinner; could really tuck it
away). [low german or dutch]
Tudor adj. 1 of the royal family of england 1485–1603 or this period. 2 of the
architectural style of this period, esp. With half-timbering. [owen tudor, name of
the grandfather of henry vii]
Tuesday —n. Day of the week following monday. —adv. 1 colloq. On tuesday.
2 (tuesdays) on tuesdays; each tuesday. [old english]
Tufa n. 1 porous limestone rock formed round mineral springs. 2 = tuff. [italian:
related to tuff]
Tuft n. Bunch or collection of threads, grass, feathers, hair, etc., held or growing
together at the base. tufted adj. Tufty adj. [probably french tofe]
Tug —v. (-gg-) 1 (often foll. By at) pull hard or violently; jerk. 2 tow (a ship
etc.) By a tugboat. —n. 1 hard, violent, or jerky pull. 2 sudden strong emotion. 3
small powerful boat for towing ships. [related to *tow1]
Tugboat n. = *tug n. 3.
Tug of war n. 1 trial of strength between two sides pulling opposite ways on a
rope. 2 decisive or severe contest.
Tuition n. 1 teaching, esp. If paid for. 2 fee for this. [latin tueor tuit-look after]
Tulle n. Soft fine silk etc. Net for veils and dresses. [tulle in france]
Tumble —v. (-ling) 1 (cause to) fall suddenly, clumsily, or headlong. 2 fall
rapidly in amount etc. (prices tumbled). 3 (often foll. By about, around) roll or
toss to and fro. 4 move or rush in a headlong or blundering manner. 5 (often foll.
By to) colloq. Grasp the meaning behind an idea, circumstance, etc. (he quickly
tumbled to our plan). 6 overturn; fling or push roughly or carelessly. 7 perform
acrobatic feats, esp. Somersaults. 8 rumple or disarrange. —n. 1 sudden or
headlong fall. 2 somersault or other acrobatic feat. 3 untidy or confused state.
[low german tummeln]
Tumbrel n. (also tumbril) hist. Open cart in which condemned persons were
taken to the guillotine in the french revolution. [french tomber fall]
Tumid adj. 1 swollen, inflated. 2 (of style etc.) Inflated, bombastic. tumidity n.
Tummy-button n. Navel.
Tuna n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 large edible marine fish. 2 (in full tuna-fish) its flesh
as food. [american spanish]
Tundra n. Vast level treeless arctic region with underlying permafrost. [lappish]
Tune —n. Melody. —v. (-ning) 1 put (a musical instrument) in tune. 2 a adjust
(a radio etc.) To the frequency of a signal. B (foll. By in) adjust a radio receiver
to the required signal. 3 adjust (an engine etc.) To run efficiently. in (or out of)
tune 1 having (or not having) the correct pitch or intonation (sings in tune). 2
(usu. Foll. By with) harmonizing (or clashing) with one’s company,
surroundings, etc. To the tune of colloq. To the considerable sum of. Tuned in
(often foll. By to) colloq. Acquainted; in rapport; up to date. Tune up 1 bring
one’s instrument to the proper pitch. 2 bring to the most efficient condition. [var.
Of *tone]
Tuner n. 1 person who tunes musical instruments, esp. Pianos. 2 a part of a radio
or television receiver for tuning. B radio receiver as a separate unit in a high-fi
system. 3 electronic device for tuning a guitar etc.
Tungsten n. Dense metallic element with a very high melting point. [swedish, =
heavy stone]
Tunic n. 1 close-fitting short coat of police or military etc. Uniform. 2 loose
often sleeveless garment reaching to the knees. [latin]
Tunnel —n. 1 underground passage dug through a hill or under a road, river,
etc., esp. For a railway or road. 2 underground passage dug by an animal. —v. (-
ll-; us -l-) 1 (foll. By through, into, etc.) Make a tunnel through. 2 make (one’s
way) by tunnelling. [french diminutive of tonne *tun]
Tunnel vision n. 1 vision which is poor or lost outside the centre of the normal
field of vision. 2 colloq. Inability to grasp a situation’s wider implications.
Tup —n. Ram. —v. (-pp-) (of a ram) copulate with (a ewe). [origin unknown]
Tupi —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 member of an american indian people of the amazon
valley. 2 their language. —adj. Of this people or language. [tupi]
Tupperware n. Propr. Range of plastic containers for storing food. [tupper, name
of the manufacturer]
Turban n. 1 man’s headdress of fabric wound round a cap or the head, worn esp.
By muslims and sikhs. 2 woman’s hat resembling this. turbaned adj. [persian: cf.
*tulip]
Turbid adj. 1 (of a liquid or colour) muddy, thick; not clear. 2 (of style etc.)
Confused, disordered. turbidity n. [latin turba crowd]
Usage turbid is sometimes confused with turgid which means ‘swollen, inflated;
pompous’.
Turbine n. Rotary motor driven by a flow of water, steam, gas, wind, etc. [latin
turbo -in-spinning-top, whirlwind]
Turbojet n. 1 jet engine in which the jet also operates a turbine-driven air-
compressor. 2 aircraft powered by this.
Turbot n. (pl. Same or -s) large european flat-fish prized as food. [french from
swedish]
Turco-comb. Form (also turko-) turkish; turkish and. [medieval latin: related to
*turk]
Turf —n. (pl. -s or turves) 1 a layer of grass etc. With earth and matted roots as
the surface of grassland. B piece of this cut from the ground. 2 slab of peat for
fuel. 3 (prec. By the) a horse-racing generally. B general term for racecourses.
—v. 1 cover (ground) with turf. 2 (foll. By out) colloq. Expel or eject (a person
or thing). turfy adj. [old english]
Usage turgid is sometimes confused with turbid which means ‘muddy, not clear;
confused’.
Turkey n. (pl. -s) 1 large orig. American bird bred for food. 2 its flesh as food. 3
us slang theatrical failure; flop. talk turkey us colloq. Talk frankly; get down to
business. [originally of the guineafowl, imported from turkey]
Turki —adj. Of a group of languages and peoples including turkish. —n. This
group. turkic adj. [persian: related to *turk]
Turkish —adj. Of turkey, the turks, or their language. —n. This language.
Turkish bath n. 1 hot-air or steam bath followed by washing, massage, etc. 2 (in
sing. Or pl.) Building for this.
Turkish carpet n. Wool carpet with a thick pile and traditional bold design.
Turko-var. Of *turco-.
Turmeric n. 1 e. Indian plant of the ginger family. 2 its powdered rhizome used
as a spice in curry etc. Or for yellow dye. [perhaps from french terre mérite]
Turn —v. 1 move around a point or axis; give or receive a rotary motion (turned
the wheel; the wheel turns). 2 change in position so that a different side, end, or
part becomes outermost or uppermost etc.; invert or reverse (it turned inside out;
turned it upside down). 3 a give a new direction to (turn your face this way). B
take a new direction (turn left here). 4 aim in a certain way (turned the hose on
them). 5 (foll. By into) change in nature, form, or condition to (turned into a
frog; turned the book into a play). 6 (foll. By to) a set about (turned to doing the
ironing). B have recourse to (turned to drink; turned to me for help). C go on to
consider next (let us now turn to your report). 7 become (turned nasty). 8 a (foll.
By against) make or become hostile to (has turned her against us). B (foll. By on,
upon) become hostile to; attack (suddenly turned on them). 9 (of hair or leaves)
change colour. 10 (of milk) become sour. 11 (of the stomach) be nauseated. 12
cause (milk) to become sour or (the stomach) to be nauseated. 13 (of the head)
become giddy. 14 translate (turn it into french). 15 move to the other side of; go
round (turned the corner). 16 pass the age or time of (he has turned 40; it has
turned 4 o’clock). 17 (foll. By on) depend on; be determined by. 18 send or put;
cause to go (was turned loose; turned the water out into a basin). 19 perform (a
somersault etc.). 20 remake (esp. A sheet) putting the less worn outer side on the
inside. 21 make (a profit). 22 divert (a bullet). 23 blunt (a knife etc.). 24 shape
(an object) on a lathe. 25 give an (esp. Elegant) form to (turn a compliment). 26
(of the tide) change direction. —n. 1 turning; rotary motion. 2 changed or a
change of direction or tendency (took a sudden turn to the left). 3 point at which
a turning or change occurs. 4 turning of a road. 5 change of direction of the tide.
6 change in the course of events (a turn for the worse). 7 tendency or disposition;
facility of forming (is of a mechanical turn of mind; has a neat turn of phrase). 8
opportunity or obligation etc. That comes successively to each of several persons
etc. (my turn to pay). 9 short walk or ride (took a turn in the park). 10 short
performance, variety act. 11 service of a specified kind (did me a good turn). 12
purpose (served my turn). 13 colloq. Momentary nervous shock (gave me a
turn). 14 mus. Ornament consisting of the principal note with those above and
below it. at every turn continually. By turns in rotation; alternately. In turn in
succession. In one’s turn when one’s turn comes.
Turning n. 1 a road that branches off another. B place where this occurs. 2 a use
of a lathe. B (in pl.) Chips or shavings from a lathe.
Turnip n. 1 plant with a globular root. 2 its root as a vegetable. turnipy adj. [dial.
Neep (old english from latin napu)]
Turn-off n. 1 turning off a main road. 2 colloq. Something that repels or causes a
loss of interest.
loss of interest.
Turret n. 1 small tower, esp. Decorating a building. 2 low flat usu. Revolving
armoured tower for a gun and gunners in a ship, aircraft, fort, or tank. 3 rotating
holder for tools in a lathe etc. turreted adj. [french diminutive: related to *tower]
Turtle n. 1 aquatic reptile with flippers and a horny shell. 2 its flesh, used for
soup. turn turtle capsize. [alteration of earlier tortue: related to *tortoise]
Turtle-dove n. Wild dove noted for its soft cooing and affection for its mate.
[latin turtur]
Tusk n. Long pointed tooth, esp. Protruding from a closed mouth, as in the
elephant, walrus, etc. tusked adj. [old english]
Tussle —n. Struggle, scuffle. —v. (-ling) engage in a tussle. [originally scots
and northern english, perhaps diminutive of touse: related to *tousle]
Tussock n. Clump of grass etc. tussocky adj. [perhaps from dial. Tusk tuft]
Tutti mus. —adj. & adv. With all voices or instruments together. —n. (pl. -s)
such a passage. [italian, pl. Of tutto all]
Tutti-frutti n. (pl. -s) ice-cream containing small pieces of mixed glacé fruit.
[italian, = all fruits]
Tv abbr. Television.
Twain adj. & n. Archaic two. [old english, masculine form of *two]
Tweak —v. 1 pinch and twist sharply; jerk. 2 make fine adjustments to (a
mechanism). —n. Act of tweaking. [probably dial. Twick, *twitch]
Tweet —n. Chirp of a small bird. —v. Make this noise. [imitative]
Tweezers n.pl. Small pair of pincers for taking up small objects, plucking out
hairs, etc. [originally tweezes pl. Of obsolete tweeze, a case for small
instruments]
Twelfth adj. & n. 1 next after eleventh. 2 each of twelve equal parts of a thing.
[old english: related to *twelve]
Twelve adj. & n. 1 one more than eleven. 2 symbol for this (12, xii, xii). 3 size
etc. Denoted by twelve. 4 twelve o’clock. 5 (the twelve) the apostles. [old
english]
Twenty adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 product of two and ten. 2 symbol for this (20, xx,
xx). 3 (in pl.) Numbers from 20 to 29, esp. The years of a century or of a
person’s life. twentieth adj. & n. [old english]
Twice adv. 1 two times; on two occasions. 2 in double degree or quantity (twice
as good). [old english: related to *two]
Twiddle —v. (-ling) twirl, adjust, or play randomly or idly. —n. Act of
twiddling. twiddle one’s thumbs 1 make them rotate round each other. 2 have
nothing to do. twiddly adj. [probably imitative]
Twig1 n. Very small thin branch of a tree or shrub. twiggy adj. [old english]
Twilight n. 1 light from the sky when the sun is below the horizon, esp. In the
evening. 2 period of this. 3 faint light. 4 period of decline or destruction. [from
two, light1]
Twine —n. 1 strong coarse string of twisted strands of fibre. 2 coil, twist. —v. (-
ning) 1 form (a string etc.) By twisting strands. 2 weave (a garland etc.). 3 (often
foll. By with) garland (a brow etc.). 4 (often foll. By round, about) coil or wind.
5 refl. (of a plant) grow in this way. [old english]
Twinkle —v. (-ling) 1 (of a star or light etc.) Shine with rapidly intermittent
gleams. 2 (of the eyes) sparkle. 3 (of the feet) move lightly and rapidly. —n. 1
sparkle or gleam of the eyes. 2 twinkling light. 3 light rapid movement. in a
twinkle (or a twinkling or the twinkling of an eye) in an instant. twinkly adj. [old
english]
Twirl —v. Spin, swing, or twist quickly and lightly round. —n. 1 twirling
motion. 2 flourish made with a pen. [origin uncertain]
Twist —v. 1 a change the form of by rotating one end and not the other or the
two ends in opposite directions. B undergo such a change. C wrench or pull out
of shape with a twisting action (twisted my ankle). 2 a wind (strands etc.) About
each other. B form (a rope etc.) In this way. 3 a give a spiral form to. B take a
spiral form. 4 (foll. By off) break off by twisting. 5 misrepresent the meaning of
(words). 6 a take a winding course. B make (one’s way) in a winding manner. 7
colloq. Cheat. 8 (as twisted adj.) Derog. (of a person or mind) neurotic;
perverted. 9 dance the twist. —n. 1 act of twisting. 2 twisted state. 3 thing
formed by twisting. 4 point at which a thing twists or bends. 5 usu. Derog.
Peculiar tendency of mind or character etc. 6 unexpected development of events,
esp. In a story etc. 7 (prec. By the) popular 1960s dance with a twisting
movement of the hips. round the twist slang crazy. Twist a person’s arm colloq.
Coerce, esp. Using moral pressure. Twist round one’s finger easily persuade or
dominate (a person). twisty adj. (-ier, -iest). [related to twin, twine]
Twitch —v. 1 (of features, muscles, etc.) Move or contract spasmodically. 2 pull
sharply at. —n. 1 sudden involuntary contraction or movement. 2 sudden pull or
jerk. 3 colloq. State of nervousness. twitchy adj. (-ier, -iest) (in sense 3 of n.).
[probably old english]
Two adj. & n. 1 one more than one. 2 symbol for this (2, ii, ii). 3 size etc.
Denoted by two. 4 two o’clock. in two in or into two pieces. Put two and two
together infer from known facts. [old english]
Twofold adj. & adv. 1 twice as much or as many. 2 consisting of two parts.
Two-handed adj. 1 having, using, or requiring the use of two hands. 2 (of a card-
game) for two players.
Twopence n. 1 sum of two pence. 2 (esp. With neg.) Colloq. Thing of little value
(don’t care twopence).
Two-piece —adj. (of a suit etc.) Consisting of two matching items. —n. Two-
piece suit etc.
Two-ply —adj. Of two strands or layers etc. —n. 1 two-ply wool. 2 two-ply
wood.
Two-way mirror n. Panel of glass that can be seen through from one side and is a
mirror on the other.
-ty1 suffix forming nouns denoting quality or condition (cruelty; plenty). [french
from latin -tas -tatis]
Tyke n. (also tike) 1 unpleasant or coarse man. 2 small child. [old norse]
Type —n. 1 sort, class, or kind. 2 person, thing, or event exemplifying a class or
group. 3 (in comb.) Made of, resembling, or functioning as (ceramic-type
material; cheddar-type cheese). 4 colloq. Person, esp. Of a specified character (a
quiet type; not my type). 5 object, conception, or work of art, serving as a model
for subsequent artists. 6 printing a piece of metal etc. With a raised letter or
character on its upper surface for printing. B kind or size of such pieces (printed
in large type). C set or supply of these (ran short of type). —v. (-ping) 1 write
with a typewriter. 2 typecast. 3 esp. Biol. & med. Assign to a type; classify.
[greek tupos impression]
Typecast v. (past and past part. -cast) assign (an actor or actress) repeatedly to
the same type of role.
Typewriter n. Machine with keys for producing printlike characters one at a time
on paper inserted round a roller.
Typhoid n. (in full typhoid fever) infectious bacterial fever attacking the
intestines.
intestines.
Typhus n. Infectious fever with a purple rash, headaches, and usu. Delirium.
[greek, = stupor]
Tyrannize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (often foll. By over) treat despotically or
cruelly. [french: related to *tyrant]
Tyrannosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) (also tyrannosaur) dinosaur with very short front
legs and a long well-developed tail. [from *tyrant, after dinosaur]
Tyranny n. (pl. -ies) 1 cruel and arbitrary use of authority. 2 a rule by a tyrant. B
period of this. C state ruled by a tyrant. tyrannous adj. [greek: related to *tyrant]
Tyre n. (us tire) rubber covering, usu. Inflated, placed round a wheel to form a
soft contact with the road. [var. Of *tire2]
Tyrian —adj. Of ancient tyre in phoenicia. —n. Native or citizen of tyre. [latin
tyrus tyre]
U3 abbr. (also u.) Universal (of films classified as suitable for all).
U4 symb. Uranium.
Udder n. Baglike mammary organ of cattle etc., with several teats. [old english]
Ugli n. (pl. -lis or -lies) propr. Mottled green and yellow hybrid of a grapefruit
and a tangerine. [from *ugly]
Ugly adj. (-lier, -liest) 1 unpleasant to the eye, ear, or mind etc. (ugly scar; ugly
snarl). 2 unpleasantly suggestive; discreditable (ugly rumours). 3 threatening,
dangerous (an ugly look). 4 morally repulsive (ugly vices). ugliness n. [old
norse]
Uht abbr. Ultra heat treated (esp. Of milk, for long keeping).
Ulcer n. 1 open sore on or in the body, often forming pus. 2 corrupting influence
etc. ulcerous adj. [latin ulcus -cer-]
Ullage n. 1 amount by which a cask etc. Falls short of being full. 2 loss by
evaporation or leakage. [french from latin]
Ulna n. (pl. Ulnae) 1 thinner and longer bone in the forearm, opposite to the
thumb. 2 corresponding bone in an animal’s foreleg or a bird’s wing. ulnar adj.
[latin]
Ulterior adj. Not evident or admitted; hidden, secret (esp. Ulterior motive).
[latin, = further]
Ultimatum n. (pl. -s) final statement of terms, the rejection of which could cause
hostility etc. [latin: related to *ultimate]
Ultimo adj. Commerce of last month (the 28th ultimo). [latin, = in the last
(mense month)]
Ultra —adj. Extreme, esp. In religion or politics. —n. Extremist. [see *ultra-]
Ultramarine —n. 1 brilliant blue pigment orig. From lapis lazuli. 2 colour of this.
—adj. Of this colour. [italian and medieval latin, = beyond the sea, from where
lapis lazuli was brought]
Ultrasonic adj. Of or using sound waves pitched above the range of human
hearing. ultrasonically adv.
Ultraviolet adj. Of or using radiation with a frequency just beyond that of the
violet end of the visible spectrum.
Ultra vires adv. & predic.adj. Beyond one’s legal power or authority. [latin]
Umbelliferous adj. (of a plant) bearing umbels, such as parsley and carrot.
Umber —n. 1 natural pigment like ochre but darker and browner. 2 colour of
this. —adj. Of this colour. [latin umbra shadow]
Umbra n. (pl. -s or -brae) total shadow, esp. That cast on the earth by the moon
during a solar eclipse. [latin, = shadow]
Umbrage n. Offence taken (esp. Take umbrage at). [latin: related to *umbra]
Umlaut n. 1 mark (¨) used over a vowel, esp. In germanic languages, to indicate
a vowel change. 2 such a vowel change, e.g. German mann, männer, english
man, men. [german]
Umpire —n. Person enforcing rules and settling disputes in esp. Cricket or
between disputants. —v. (-ring) (often foll. By for, in, etc.) Act as umpire (in).
[french nonper not equal: related to *peer2]
Umpteen colloq. —adj. Indefinitely many; a lot of. —pron. Indefinitely many.
umpteenth adj. [jocular formation on *-teen]
Un abbr. United nations.
Un-1 prefix 1 added to adjectives and participles and their derivative nouns and
adverbs, meaning: a not (unusable). B reverse of (esp. With implied approval
etc.) (unselfish; unsociable). 2 (less often) added to nouns, meaning ‘a lack of’,
‘the reverse of’ (unrest; untruth). [old english]
Usage the number of words that can be formed with this prefix (and with un-2)
is virtually unlimited; consequently only a selection can be given here.
Un-2 prefix added to verbs and (less often) nouns, forming verbs denoting: 1
reversal (undress; unsettle). 2 deprivation (unmask). 3 release from (unburden;
uncage). 4 causing to be no longer (unman). [old english]
Un-3 prefix chem. Denoting ‘one’, combined with other numerical roots nil (=
0), un (= 1), bi (= 2), etc., to form the names of elements based on the atomic
number, and terminated with -ium, e.g. Unnilquadium = 104, ununbium = 112.
[latin unus one]
Unacquainted adj. (usu. Foll. By with) not acquainted.
Unaffected adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By by) not affected. 2 free from affectation.
unaffectedly adv.
Unattached adj. 1 not engaged, married, etc. 2 (often foll. By to) not attached,
esp. To a particular organization etc.
Unattended adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By to) not attended. 2 (of a person, vehicle, etc.)
Alone.
Unavoidable adj. Inevitable. unavoidably adv.
Unbecoming adj. 1 unflattering (unbecoming hat). 2 (usu. Foll. By to, for) not
fitting; indecorous. unbecomingly adv.
Unbeknown adj. (also unbeknownst) (foll. By to) without the knowledge of
(unbeknown to us).
Unbend v. (past and past part. Unbent) 1 straighten. 2 relax; become affable.
Unborn adj. Not yet, or never to be, born (unborn child; unborn hopes).
Unbridle v. (-ling) remove a bridle, constraints, etc., from (a horse, one’s tongue,
etc.) (unbridled insolence).
Uncapped adj. Sport (of a player) not yet awarded his cap or never having been
selected to represent his country.
Uncial —adj. Of or written in rounded unjoined letters similar to capitals, found
in manuscripts of the 4th–8th c. —n. Uncial letter, style, or ms. [latin uncia inch]
Unclasp v. 1 loosen the clasp(s) of. 2 release the grip of (a hand etc.).
Unclear adj. 1 not clear or easy to understand. 2 (of a person) uncertain (i’m
unclear as to what you mean).
Unclench v. 1 release (clenched hands etc.). 2 (of hands etc.) Become relaxed or
open.
Uncoil v. Unwind.
Uncouple v. (-ling) release from couplings or couples.
Uncross v. 1 remove from a crossed position. 2 (as uncrossed adj.) (of a cheque)
not crossed.
Uncured adj. 1 not cured. 2 (of pork etc.) Not salted or smoked.
Uncut adj. 1 not cut. 2 (of a book) with the pages sealed or untrimmed. 3 (of a
book, film, etc.) Complete; uncensored. 4 (of esp. A diamond) not shaped. 5 (of
fabric) with a looped pile.
Underarm —adj. & adv. Sport, esp. Cricket with the arm below shoulder-level.
—attrib. Adj. 1 under the arm (underarm seam). 2 in the armpit.
Underbid —v. (-dd-; past and past part. -bid) 1 make a lower bid than. 2 (also
absol.) Bridge etc. Bid less on (one’s hand) than warranted. —n. Such a bid.
Undercharge v. (-ging) 1 charge too little to (a person). 2 give too little charge to
(a gun, electric battery, etc.).
Underclothes n.pl. Clothes worn under others, esp. Next to the skin.
Undercoat n. 1 a layer of paint under a topcoat. B paint for this. 2 animal’s under
layer of hair etc.
Undercut —v. (-tt-; past and past part. -cut) 1 sell or work at a lower price than.
2 strike (a ball) to make it rise high. 3 cut away the part below. 4 undermine. —
n. Underside of sirloin.
Underdeveloped adj. 1 not fully developed; immature. 2 (of a country etc.) With
unexploited potential. underdevelopment n.
Underestimate —v. (-ting) form too low an estimate of. —n. Estimate that is too
low. underestimation n.
Underexpose v. (-sing) expose (film) for too short a time etc. underexposure n.
Underfoot adv. (also under foot) 1 under one’s feet. 2 on the ground.
Undergo v. (3rd sing. Present -goes; past -went; past part. -gone) be subjected to;
suffer; endure.
Underlay1 —v. (past and past part. -laid) lay something under (a thing) to
support or raise it. —n. Thing so laid (esp. Under a carpet).
Underlie v. (-lying; past -lay; past part. -lain) 1 (also absol.) Lie under (a stratum
etc.). 2 (also absol.) (esp. As underlying adj.) Be the basis of (a doctrine,
conduct, etc.). 3 exist beneath the superficial aspect of.
Underline v. (-ning) 1 draw a line under (a word etc.) To give emphasis, indicate
italic type, etc. 2 emphasize, stress.
Underpants n.pl. Undergarment, esp. Men’s, covering the genitals and buttocks.
Underpart n. Lower or subordinate part.
Underpay v. (past and past part. -paid) pay too little to (a person) or for (a thing).
underpayment n.
Underprivileged adj. Less privileged than others; having below average income,
rights, etc.
Underseal —v. Seal the underpart of (esp. A vehicle against rust etc.). —n.
Protective coating for this.
Undersell v. (past and past part. -sold) sell at a lower price than (another seller).
Undershoot v. (past and past part. -shot) land short of (a runway etc.).
Undershot adj. 1 (of a water-wheel) turned by water flowing under it. 2 (of a
lower jaw) projecting beyond the upper jaw.
Underskirt n. Petticoat.
Underspend v. (past and past part. -spent) (usu. Absol.) Spend less than (the
expected amount), or too little.
Understand v. (past and past part. -stood) 1 perceive the meaning of (words, a
person, a language, a subject, etc.) (understood you perfectly; cannot understand
algebra). 2 perceive the significance or cause of (do not understand why he
came). 3 (often absol.) Sympathize with, know how to deal with (quite
understand your difficulty; ask her, she understands). 4 (often foll. By that or
absol.) Infer, take as implied (am i to understand that you refuse?; he is old, i
understand).
Understudy esp. Theatr. —n. (pl. -ies) person ready to take on another’s role etc.
When required. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 study (a role etc.) Thus. 2 act as an understudy
to.
Undertaking n. 1 work etc. Undertaken, enterprise (serious undertaking). 2
promise. 3 professional funeral management.
Undertow n. Current below the surface of the sea contrary to the surface current.
Undervest n. Vest.
Underwear n. Underclothes.
Underworld n. 1 those who live by organized crime and vice. 2 mythical abode
of the dead under the earth.
Underwrite v. (-ting; past -wrote; past part. -written) 1 a sign and accept liability
under (an insurance policy, esp. On shipping etc.). B accept (liability) in this
way. 2 undertake to finance or support. 3 engage to buy all the unsold stock in (a
company etc.). underwriter n.
Undescended adj. (of a testicle) not descending normally into the scrotum.
Undigested adj. 1 not digested. 2 (of facts etc.) Not properly arranged or
considered.
Undo v. (3rd sing. Present -does; past -did; past part. -done; pres. Part. -doing) 1
unfasten (a coat, button, parcel, etc.), or the clothing of (a person). 2 annul,
cancel (cannot undo the past). 3 ruin the prospects, reputation, or morals of.
Undreamed adj. (also undreamt) (often foll. By of) not dreamed, thought, or
imagined.
Undress —v. 1 take off one’s clothes. 2 take the clothes off (a person). —n. 1
ordinary or casual dress, esp. As opposed to full dress or uniform. 2 naked or
scantily clad state.
Undressed adj. 1 not, or no longer, dressed. 2 (of food) without a dressing. 3 (of
leather etc.) Not treated.
Undulate v. (-ting) (cause to) have a wavy motion or look. undulation n. [latin
unda wave]
Unearned income n. Income from investments etc. Rather than from working.
Unequal adj. 1 (often foll. By to) not equal. 2 of varying quality. 3 unfair
(unequal contest). unequally adv.
Unesco abbr. (also unesco) united nations educational, scientific, and cultural
organization.
Uneven adj. 1 not level or smooth. 2 of variable quality etc. 3 (of a contest)
unequal. unevenly adv. Unevenness n.
Unexplored adj. Not explored.
Unfledged adj. 1 (of a person) inexperienced. 2 (of a bird) not yet fledged.
Unfold v. 1 open the fold or folds of, spread out. 2 reveal (thoughts etc.). 3
become opened out. 4 develop.
Unfreeze v. (-zing; past unfroze; past part. Unfrozen) 1 (cause to) thaw. 2
derestrict (assets, credits, etc.).
Unfrock v. = *defrock.
Ungreen adj. Not concerned with the protection of the environment; harmful to
the environment.
Ungulate —adj. Hoofed. —n. Hoofed mammal. [latin ungula hoof, claw]
Unhinge v. (-ging) 1 take (a door etc.) Off its hinges. 2 (esp. As unhinged adj.)
Make mad or crazy.
Unhistorical adj. Not historical.
Uniat (also uniate) —adj. Of the church in e. Europe or the near east,
acknowledging papal supremacy but retaining its own liturgy etc. —n. Member
of such a church. [latin unio *union]
Unicorn n. Mythical horse with a single straight horn. [latin cornu horn]
Uniform —adj. 1 unvarying (uniform appearance). 2 conforming to the same
standard, rules, etc. 3 constant over a period (uniform acceleration). —n.
Distinctive clothing worn by soldiers, police, schoolchildren, etc. uniformed adj.
Uniformity n. Uniformly adv. [latin: related to *form]
Unify v. (-ies, -ied) make or become united or uniform. [latin: related to *uni-]
Union-bashing n. Colloq. Media or government campaign against trade unions.
Union jack n. (also union flag) national ensign of the united kingdom.
Unique adj. 1 being the only one of its kind; having no like, equal, or parallel. 2
remarkable (unique opportunity). uniquely adv. [latin unicus from unus one]
Unisex adj. (of clothing, hairstyles, etc.) Designed for both sexes.
Unitarian —n. 1 person who believes that god is one, not a trinity. 2 member of
a religious body so believing. —adj. Of unitarians. unitarianism n. [latin unitas
*unity]
Unite v. (-ting) 1 join together; combine, esp. For a common purpose or action
(united in their struggle). 2 join in marriage. 3 (cause to) form a physical or
chemical whole (oil will not unite with water). [latin unio -it-from unus one]
United reformed church n. Church formed in 1972 from the english presbyterian
and congregational churches.
United states n. (in full united states of america) federal republic of 50 states,
United states n. (in full united states of america) federal republic of 50 states,
mostly in n. America and including alaska and hawaii.
Universal —adj. Of, belonging to, or done etc. By all; applicable to all cases. —
n. Term, characteristic, or concept of general application. universality n.
Universally adv. [latin: related to *universe]
Universal coupling n. (also universal joint) coupling or joint which can transmit
rotary power by a shaft at any angle.
Universe n. 1 all existing things; creation. 2 all mankind. 3 statistics & logic all
the objects under consideration. [latin universus combined into one]
Unknown —adj. (often foll. By to) not known, unfamiliar. —n. Unknown thing,
person, or quantity. unknown to without the knowledge of (did it unknown to
me).
Unlace v. (-cing) 1 undo the lace(s) of. 2 unfasten or loosen in this way.
Unlearn v. (past and past part. Unlearned or unlearnt) 1 forget deliberately. 2 rid
oneself of (a habit, false information, etc.).
Unless conj. If not; except when (shall go unless i hear from you). [= on less]
Unlikely adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 improbable (unlikely tale). 2 (foll. By to + infin.) Not
expected (unlikely to die). 3 unpromising (unlikely candidate). unlikeliness n.
Unlisted adj. Not in a published list, esp. Of stock exchange prices or telephone
numbers.
Unload v. 1 (also absol.) Remove a load from (a vehicle etc.). 2 remove (a load)
from a vehicle etc. 3 remove the ammunition from (a gun etc.). 4 colloq. Get rid
of.
Unmake v. (-king; past and past part. Unmade) undo; destroy, depose, annul.
Unmask v. 1 a remove the mask from. B expose the true character of. 2 remove
one’s mask.
Unmentionable —adj. Unsuitable for polite conversation. —n. (in pl.) Joc.
Undergarments.
Unnatural adj. 1 contrary to nature; not normal. 2 lacking natural feelings, esp.
Cruel or wicked. 3 artificial. 4 affected. unnaturally adv.
Unofficial strike n. Strike not ratified by the strikers’ trade union.
Unpack v. 1 (also absol.) Open and empty (a package, luggage, etc.). 2 take (a
thing) from a package etc.
Unpaired adj. 1 not being one of a pair. 2 not united or arranged in pairs.
Unplaced adj. Not placed, esp. Not one of the first three in a race etc.
Unplayable adj. 1 sport (of a ball) too fast etc. To be returned. 2 that cannot be
played.
Unplug v. (-gg-) 1 disconnect (an electrical device) by removing its plug from
the socket. 2 unstop.
Unpracticed adj. (brit. Unpractised) 1 not experienced or skilled. 2 not put into
practice.
Unpractised adj. (us unpracticed) 1 not experienced or skilled. 2 not put into
practice.
Unputdownable adj. Colloq. (of a book) compulsively readable.
Unread adj. 1 (of a book etc.) Not read. 2 (of a person) not well-read.
Unrehearsed adj. Not rehearsed.
Unrepeatable adj. 1 that cannot be done, made, or said again. 2 too indecent to
repeat.
Unrewarded adj. Not rewarded.
Unroll v. 1 open out from a rolled-up state. 2 display or be displayed like this.
Unsaturated adj. Chem. (of esp. A fat or oil) having double or triple bonds in its
molecule and therefore capable of further reaction.
Unscreened adj. 1 a (esp. Of coal) not passed through a screen or sieve. B not
checked, esp. For security or medical problems. 2 not having a screen. 3 not
shown on a screen.
Unseasonal adj. Not typical of, or appropriate to, the time or season.
unseasonally adv.
Unseat v. 1 remove from (esp. A parliamentary) seat. 2 dislodge from a seat, esp.
On horseback.
Unsex v. Deprive (a person, esp. A woman) of the qualities of her or his sex.
Unskilled adj. Lacking, or (of work) not needing, special skill or training.
Unskillful adj. (brit. Unskilful) not skilful.
Unsocial adj. 1 not social; not suitable for or seeking society. 2 outside the
normal working day (unsocial hours). 3 antisocial.
Unstable adj. (unstabler, unstablest) 1 not stable; likely to fall. 2 not stable
emotionally. 3 changeable. unstably adv.
Unsteady adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 not steady or firm. 2 changeable. 3 not uniform or
regular. unsteadily adv. Unsteadiness n.
Unstick v. (past and past part. Unstuck) separate (a thing stuck to another). come
unstuck colloq. Come to grief, fail.
Unstinted adj. Not stinted.
Unstring v. (past and past part. Unstrung) 1 remove or relax the string(s) of (a
bow, harp, etc.). 2 remove (beads etc.) From a string. 3 (esp. As unstrung adj.)
Unnerve.
Unstudied adj. Easy, natural, spontaneous.
Unsuited adj. 1 (usu. Foll. By for) not fit. 2 (usu. Foll. By to) not adapted.
Unteachable adj. (of a person, subject, etc.) Incapable of being taught.
Untidy adj. (-ier, -iest) not neat or orderly. untidily adv. Untidiness n.
Until prep. & conj. = *till1. [earlier untill: un from old norse und as far as]
Usage until, as opposed to till, is used esp. At the beginning of a sentence and in
formal style, e.g. Until you told me, i had no idea; he resided there until his
decease.
Unto prep. Archaic = *to (in all uses except signalling the infinitive). [from
*until, with to replacing til]
Usage the use of this term, and social restrictions accompanying it, were
declared illegal under the indian constitution in 1949.
Untouched adj. 1 not touched. 2 not affected physically, emotionally, etc. 3 not
discussed.
Untrue adj. 1 not true. 2 (often foll. By to) not faithful or loyal. 3 deviating from
an accepted standard.
Unturned adj. 1 not turned over, round, away, etc. 2 not shaped by turning.
Unused adj. 1 a not in use. B never having been used. 2 (foll. By to) not
accustomed.
Unwanted adj. Not wanted.
Unwary adj. (often foll. By of) not cautious. unwarily adv. Unwariness n.
Unwashed adj. Not washed or clean. the great unwashed colloq. The rabble.
Unwieldy adj. (-ier, -iest) cumbersome or hard to manage, owing to size, shape,
etc. unwieldily adv. Unwieldiness n. [wieldy active, from *wield]
Unwind v. (past and past part. Unwound) 1 draw out or become drawn out after
having been wound. 2 colloq. Relax.
Unworthy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (often foll. By of) not worthy of or befitting a person
etc. 2 discreditable, unseemly. unworthily adv. Unworthiness n.
Unwritten adj. 1 not written. 2 (of a law etc.) Based on custom or judicial
decision, not on statute.
Up —adv. 1 at, in, or towards a higher place or a place regarded as higher, e.g.
The north, a capital or a university (up in the air; up in scotland; went up to
london; came up in 1989). 2 a to or in an erect or required position or condition
(stood it up; wound up the watch). B in or into an active condition (stirred up
trouble; the hunt is up). 3 in a stronger or leading position (three goals up; am
£10 up; is well up in class). 4 to a specified place, person, or time (a child came
up to me; fine up till now). 5 higher in price or value (our costs are up; shares are
up). 6 a completely (burn up; eat up). B more loudly or clearly (speak up). 7
completed (time is up). 8 into a compact, accumulated, or secure state (pack up;
save up; tie up). 9 out of bed, having risen (are you up yet?; sun is up). 10
happening, esp. Unusually (something is up). 11 (usu. Foll. By before) appearing
for trial etc. (up before the magistrate). 12 (of a road etc.) Being repaired. 13 (of
a jockey) in the saddle. —prep. 1 upwards and along, through, or into (climbed
up the ladder; went up the road). 2 from the bottom to the top of. 3 a at or in a
higher part of (is up the street). B towards the source of (a river). —adj. 1
directed upwards (up stroke). 2 of travel towards a capital or centre (the up
train). —n. Spell of good fortune. —v. (-pp-) 1 colloq. Start, esp. Abruptly, to
speak or act (upped and hit him). 2 raise (upped their prices). be all up with be
hopeless for (a person). On the up (or up and up) colloq. Steadily improving. Up
against 1 close to. 2 in or into contact with. 3 colloq. Confronted with (a problem
etc.).
Up-and-over adj. (of a door) opening by being raised and pushed back into a
horizontal position.
Upbraid v. (often foll. By with, for) chide, reproach. [old english: related to
*braid = brandish]
Update —v. (-ting) bring up to date. —n. 1 updating. 2 updated information etc.
Upfront colloq. —adv. (usu. Up front) 1 at the front; in front. 2 (of payments) in
advance. —adj. 1 honest, frank, direct. 2 (of payments) made in advance.
Uphold v. (past and past part. Upheld) 1 confirm (a decision etc.). 2 support,
maintain (a custom etc.). upholder n.
Upholsterer n. Person who upholsters, esp. For a living. [obsolete upholster from
*uphold in sense ‘keep in repair’]
Upland —n. (usu. In pl.) Higher or inland parts of a country. —adj. Of these
parts.
Up-market adj. & adv. Of or directed at the upper end of the market; classy.
Usage upon is sometimes more formal than on, but is standard in once upon a
time and upon my word.
Upper1 —attrib. Adj. 1 higher in place; situated above another part. 2 higher in
rank etc. (upper class). —n. Part of a boot or shoe above the sole. on one’s
uppers colloq. Very short of money.
Upper-cut —n. Upwards blow delivered with the arm bent. —v. Hit upwards
with the arm bent.
Upper hand n. (prec. By the) dominance, control.
Upright —adj. 1 erect, vertical. 2 (of a piano) with vertical strings. 3 honourable
or honest. —n. 1 upright post or rod, esp. As a structural support. 2 upright
piano. [old english]
Uprising n. Insurrection.
Upset —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Upset) 1 overturn. 2 disturb the composure or
digestion of. 3 disrupt. —n. 1 emotional or physical disturbance. 2 surprising
result. —adj. Disturbed (upset stomach).
Upside down adv. & adj. 1 with the upper and lower parts reversed; inverted. 2
in or into total disorder. [from up so down, perhaps = ‘up as if down’]
Upsilon n. Twentieth letter of the greek alphabet (u, u). [greek, = slender u, from
psilos slender, with ref. To its later coincidence in sound with greek oi]
Upstage —adj. & adv. Nearer the back of a theatre stage. —v. (-ging) 1 move
upstage to make (another actor) face away from the audience. 2 divert attention
from (a person) to oneself.
Upstairs —adv. To or on an upper floor. —attrib. Adj. Situated upstairs. —n.
Upper floor.
Upstart —n. Newly successful, esp. Arrogant, person. —adj. 1 that is an upstart.
2 of upstarts.
Upstate us —n. Provincial, esp. Northern, part of a state. —attrib. Adj. Of this
part. —adv. In or to this part.
Upstream adv. & adj. In the direction contrary to the flow of a stream etc.
Upward —adv. (also upwards) towards what is higher, more important, etc. —
adj. Moving or extending upwards. upwards of more than (upwards of forty).
Upwind adj. & adv. In the direction from which the wind is blowing.
Urban adj. Of, living in, or situated in a town or city. [latin urbs city]
Urbanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make urban, esp. By destroying the rural
quality of (a district). urbanization n.
Urdu n. Language related to hindi but with many persian words, used esp. In
pakistan. [hindustani]
Ureter n. Duct conveying urine from the kidney to the bladder. [greek oureo
urinate]
Urethra n. (pl. -s) duct conveying urine from the bladder. [greek: related to
*ureter]
Urge —v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By on) drive forcibly; hasten. 2 encourage or
entreat earnestly or persistently. 3 (often foll. By on, upon) advocate (an action
or argument etc.) Emphatically (to a person). —n. 1 urging impulse or tendency.
2 strong desire. [latin urgeo]
Urine n. Waste fluid secreted by the kidneys and discharged from the bladder.
[latin urina]
Urn n. 1 vase with a foot and usu. A rounded body, used esp. For the ashes of the
dead. 2 large vessel with a tap, in which tea or coffee etc. Is made or kept hot.
[latin urna]
Urogenital adj. Of the urinary and reproductive systems. [greek ouron urine]
Us pron. 1 objective case of *we (they saw us). 2 colloq. = we (it’s us again). 3
colloq. = me1 (give us a kiss). [old english]
Use —v. (using) 1 cause to act or serve for a purpose; bring into service. 2 treat
in a specified manner (used him shamefully). 3 exploit for one’s own ends. 4 did
or had habitually (i used to drink; it used not (or did not use) to rain so often). 5
(as used adj.) Second-hand. 6 (as used predic. Adj.) (foll. By to) familiar by
habit; accustomed (used to hard work). —n. 1 using or being used. 2 right or
power of using (lost the use of his legs). 3 benefit, advantage (a torch would be
of use; it’s no use talking). 4 custom or usage (established by long use). have no
use for 1 not need. 2 dislike, be contemptuous of. In use being used. Make use of
1 use. 2 benefit from. Out of use not being used. Use up 1 consume completely.
2 find a use for (leftovers etc.). [french us, user, ultimately from latin utor us-]
Usher —n. 1 person who shows people to their seats in a cinema, church, etc. 2
doorkeeper at a court etc. —v. 1 act as usher to. 2 (usu. Foll. By in) announce,
herald, or show in. [latin ostium door]
Usual adj. 1 customary, habitual (the usual time). 2 (absol., prec. By the, my,
etc.) Colloq. Person’s usual drink etc. as usual as (or was) usual. usually adv.
[latin: related to *use]
Utensil n. Implement or vessel, esp. For kitchen use. [medieval latin: related to
*use]
Utilitarianism n. Doctrine that actions are right if they are useful or benefit a
majority.
Utilize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) use; turn to account. utilization n. [italian:
related to *utility]
Utmost —attrib. Adj. Furthest, extreme, greatest. —n. Utmost point or degree
etc. do one’s utmost do all that one can. [old english, = outmost]
Utopia n. Imagined perfect place or state of things. utopian adj. (also utopian).
[title of a book by thomas more, from greek ou not, topos place]
Utter1 attrib. Adj. Complete, absolute. utterly adv. [old english, comparative of
*out]
Utter2 v. 1 emit audibly. 2 express in words. 3 law put (esp. Forged money) into
circulation. [dutch]
Uv abbr. Ultraviolet.
Uvula n. (pl. Uvulae) fleshy part of the soft palate hanging above the throat.
uvular adj. [latin diminutive of uva grape]
V2 abbr. Volt(s).
V3 symb. Vanadium.
Vacant adj. 1 not filled or occupied. 2 not mentally active; showing no interest.
vacantly adv. [latin: related to *vacate]
Vacate v. (-ting) leave vacant, cease to occupy (a house, post, etc.). [latin vaco
be empty]
be empty]
Vacuole n. Tiny space in an organ or cell, containing air, fluid, etc. [latin vacuus
empty]
Vacuum —n. (pl. -s or -cua) 1 space entirely devoid of matter. 2 space or vessel
from which all or some of the air has been pumped out. 3 absence of the normal
or previous content, activities, etc. 4 (pl. -s) colloq. Vacuum cleaner. —v.
Colloq. Clean with a vacuum cleaner. [latin vacuus empty]
Vacuum flask n. Vessel with a double wall enclosing a vacuum, ensuring that
the contents remain hot or cold.
Vacuum tube n. Tube with a near-vacuum for the free passage of electric
current.
Vagabond —n. Wanderer, esp. An idle one. —attrib. Adj. Wandering, roving.
vagabondage n. [latin vagor wander]
Vagina n. (pl. -s or -nae) canal from the uterus to the vulva in female mammals.
vaginal adj. [latin, = sheath]
Vain adj. 1 having too high an opinion of one’s looks, abilities, etc. 2 empty,
trivial (vain triumphs). 3 useless; futile (in the vain hope of finding it). in vain 1
without success. 2 lightly or profanely (take his name in vain). vainly adv. [latin
vanus]
Valance n. (also valence) short curtain round the frame or canopy of a bedstead,
above a window, etc. [anglo-french valer descend]
Valence1 n. = *valency.
Valency n. (pl. -ies) combining power of an atom measured by the number of
hydrogen atoms it can displace or combine with. [latin valentia power]
Valet —n. Gentleman’s personal servant. —v. (-t-) 1 work as a valet (for). 2
clean or clean out (a car). [french va(s)let, related to *varlet, *vassal]
Valid adj. 1 (of a reason, objection, etc.) Sound, defensible. 2 a executed with
the proper formalities, legally acceptable (valid contract; valid passport). B not
yet expired. validity n. [latin validus strong: related to *valiant]
Valley n. (pl. -s) low area between hills, usu. With a stream or river flowing
through it. [french: related to *vale]
Valor n. (brit. Valour) courage, esp. In battle. valorous adj. [latin valeo be
strong]
Valour n. (us valor) courage, esp. In battle. valorous adj. [latin valeo be strong]
Valuable —adj. Of great value, price, or worth. —n. (usu. In pl.) Valuable thing.
valuably adv.
Value added tax n. Tax levied on the rise in value of services and goods at each
stage of production.
Valve n. 1 device controlling flow through a pipe etc., esp. Allowing movement
in one direction only. 2 structure in an organ etc. Allowing a flow of blood etc.
In one direction only. 3 = *thermionic valve. 4 device to vary the effective
length of the tube in a trumpet etc. 5 half-shell of an oyster, mussel, etc. valvular
adj. [latin valva leaf of a folding door]
Vamp1 —n. Upper front part of a boot or shoe. —v. 1 (often foll. By up) repair
or furbish. 2 (foll. By up) make by patching or from odds and ends. 3 improvise
a musical accompaniment. [french avantpié front of the foot]
Vamp2 colloq. —n. Woman who uses sexual attraction to exploit men. —v.
Allure and exploit (a man). [abbreviation of *vampire]
Van1 n. 1 small covered goods vehicle. 2 railway carriage for luggage and for
the guard. [abbreviation of *caravan]
Vanadium n. Hard grey metallic element used to strengthen steel. [old norse
vanadís name of the scandinavian goddess freyja]
Vanishing-point n. 1 point at which receding parallel lines appear to meet. 2
stage of complete disappearance.
Variable —adj. 1 changeable, adaptable. 2 apt to vary; not constant. 3 math. (of
a quantity) indeterminate; able to assume different numerical values. —n.
Variable thing or quantity. variability n. Variably adv.
Varicose adj. (esp. Of a vein etc.) Permanently and abnormally dilated. [latin
varix varicose vein]
Usage various (unlike several) cannot be used with of, as (wrongly) in various of
the guests arrived late.
Varnish —n. 1 resinous solution used to give a hard shiny transparent coating. 2
similar preparation (nail varnish). 3 deceptive outward appearance or show. —v.
1 apply varnish to. 2 give a deceptively attractive appearance to. [french vernis,
probably ultimately from berenice in cyrenaica]
probably ultimately from berenice in cyrenaica]
Varsity n. (pl. -ies) colloq. (esp. With ref. To sports) university. [abbreviation]
Vascular adj. Of or containing vessels for conveying blood, sap, etc. [latin
vasculum diminutive of *vas]
Vasectomy n. (pl. -ies) removal of part of each vas deferens, esp. For
sterilization.
Vat n. Tank, esp. For holding liquids in brewing, distilling, food manufacture,
dyeing, and tanning. [dial. Var. Of fat, from old english]
Veda n. (in sing. Or pl.) Oldest hindu scriptures. vedic adj. [sanskrit, =
knowledge]
Veer —v. 1 change direction, esp. (of the wind) clockwise. 2 change in course or
opinion etc. —n. Change of direction. [french virer]
Vegan —n. Person who does not eat animals or animal products. —adj. Using or
containing no animal products. [shortening of *vegetarian]
Vegetable —n. 1 plant, esp. A herbaceous plant used for food, e.g. A cabbage,
potato, or bean. 2 colloq. Derog. A offens. Person who is severely mentally
incapacitated, esp. Through brain injury etc. B dull or inactive person. —adj. Of,
derived from, or relating to plant life or vegetables as food. [latin: related to
*vegetate]
Vegetarian —n. Person who does not eat meat or fish. —adj. Excluding animal
food, esp. Meat (vegetarian diet). vegetarianism n. [from *vegetable]
Veggie burger n. (also vegeburger) flat cake like a hamburger but containing
vegetables or soya protein instead of meat.
Veil —n. 1 piece of usu. Transparent fabric attached to a woman’s hat etc., esp.
To conceal or protect the face. 2 piece of linen etc. As part of a nun’s headdress.
3 thing that hides or disguises (a veil of silence). —v. 1 cover with a veil. 2 (esp.
As veiled adj.) Partly conceal (veiled threats). beyond the veil in the unknown
state of life after death. Draw a veil over avoid discussing; hush up. Take the veil
become a nun. [latin velum]
Vein n. 1 a any of the tubes conveying blood to the heart. B (in general use) any
blood-vessel. 2 rib of an insect’s wing or leaf. 3 streak of a different colour in
wood, marble, cheese, etc. 4 fissure in rock filled with ore. 5 specified character
or tendency; mood (spoke in a sarcastic vein). veined adj. Veiny adj. (-ier, -iest).
[latin vena]
Velcro n. Propr. Fastener consisting of two strips of fabric which cling when
pressed together. [french velours croché hooked velvet]
Velocity n. (pl. -ies) speed, esp. Of inanimate things (wind velocity; velocity of
light). [latin velox swift]
Velvet —n. 1 soft fabric with a thick short pile on one side. 2 furry skin on a
growing antler. —adj. Of, like, or soft as velvet. on velvet in an advantageous or
growing antler. —adj. Of, like, or soft as velvet. on velvet in an advantageous or
prosperous position. velvety adj. [latin villus tuft, down]
Venal adj. Corrupt; able to be bribed; involving bribery. venality n. Venally adv.
[latin venum thing for sale]
Vend v. Offer (small wares) for sale. vendible adj. [latin vendo sell]
Veneer —n. 1 thin covering of fine wood etc. 2 (often foll. By of) deceptively
pleasing appearance. —v. 1 apply a veneer to (wood etc.). 2 disguise. [german
furnieren to furnish]
Venial adj. (of a sin or fault) pardonable; not mortal. veniality n. Venially adv.
[latin venia forgiveness]
Venous adj. Of, full of, or contained in, veins. [latin: related to *vein]
Vent1 —n. 1 opening allowing the passage of air etc. 2 outlet; free expression
(gave vent to my anger). 3 anus, esp. Of a lower animal. —v. 1 make a vent in (a
cask etc.). 2 give free expression to. vent one’s spleen on scold or ill-treat
without cause. [latin ventus wind]
Vent2 n. Slit in a garment, esp. In the lower edge of the back of a jacket. [french
fente from latin findo cleave]
Ventricle n. 1 cavity in the body. 2 hollow part of an organ, esp. The brain or
heart. ventricular adj. [latin ventriculus diminutive of venter belly]
Venue n. Place for a match, meeting, concert, etc. [french, from venir come]
Veracious adj. Formal 1 truthful by nature. 2 (of a statement etc.) True. veracity
n. [latin verax from verus true]
Veranda n. (usu. Covered) platform along the side of a house. [hindi from
portuguese varanda]
Verb n. Word used to indicate action, a state, or an occurrence (e.g. Hear, be,
happen). [latin verbum word]
Usage some people reject sense 2 of verbal as illogical, and prefer oral.
However, verbal is the usual term in expressions such as verbal communication,
verbal contract, and verbal evidence.
Verbatim adv. & adj. In exactly the same words. [medieval latin: related to
*verb]
Verbena n. (pl. Same) plant of a genus of usu. Annual or biennial plants with
clusters of fragrant flowers. [latin]
Verbose adj. Using more words than are needed. verbosity n. [latin verbosus
from verbum word]
Verdant adj. 1 (of grass, a field, etc.) Green, lush. 2 (of a person)
unsophisticated, green. verdancy n. [perhaps from french verdeant from viridis
green]
Verge1 n. 1 edge or border. 2 brink (on the verge of tears). 3 grass edging of a
road etc. [latin virga rod]
Verisimilitude n. Appearance of being true or real. [latin verus true, similis like]
Veritable adj. Real; rightly so called (a veritable feast). veritably adv. [french:
related to *verity]
Verity n. (pl. -ies) 1 a fundamental truth. 2 archaic truth. [latin veritas truth]
Vermicide n. Drug that kills intestinal worms. [latin vermis worm]
Vermiform appendix n. Small blind tube extending from the caecum in man and
some other mammals.
Vermilion —n. 1 cinnabar. 2 a brilliant red pigment made esp. From this. B
colour of this. —adj. Of this colour. [latin vermiculus diminutive of vermis
worm]
Vermin n. (usu. Treated as pl.) 1 mammals and birds harmful to game, crops,
etc., e.g. Foxes and rats. 2 parasitic worms or insects. 3 vile people. verminous
adj. [latin vermis worm]
Verruca n. (pl. Verrucae or -s) wart or similar growth, esp. On the foot. [latin]
Versed adj. (foll. By in) experienced or skilled in. [latin versor be engaged in]
Verso n. (pl. -s) 1 left-hand page of an open book. 2 back of a printed leaf. [latin
verso (folio) on the turned (leaf)]
Versus prep. Against (esp. In law and sport). [latin: related to *verse]
Vertebra n. (pl. -brae) each segment of a backbone. vertebral adj. [latin verto
turn]
Vertex n. (pl. -tices or -texes) 1 highest point; top, apex. 2 a each angular point
of a triangle, polygon, etc. B meeting-point of lines that form an angle. [latin, =
whirlpool, crown of a head, from verto turn]
Vertigo n. Dizziness caused esp. By heights. [latin, = whirling, from verto turn]
Vervain n. Any of several verbenas, esp. One with small blue, white, or purple
flowers. [latin: related to *verbena]
Very —adv. 1 in a high degree (did it very easily). 2 in the fullest sense (foll. By
own or superl. Adj.: do your very best; my very own room). —adj. Actual; truly
such (the very thing we need; his very words; the very same). not very in a low
degree, far from being. Very good (or well) formula of consent or approval.
Very high frequency (in radio) 30-300 megahertz. Very reverend title of a dean.
[latin verus true]
Very light n. Flare projected from a pistol for signalling or illuminating part of a
battlefield etc. [very, name of its inventor]
Vessel n. 1 hollow receptacle, esp. For liquid. 2 ship or boat, esp. A large one. 3
duct or canal etc. Holding or conveying blood or sap, etc., esp. = blood-vessel.
[latin diminutive: related to vas]
Vest —n. 1 undergarment worn on the trunk. 2 us & austral. Waistcoat. —v. 1
(foll. By with) bestow (powers, authority, etc.) On. 2 (foll. By in) confer
(property or power) on (a person) with an immediate fixed right of future
possession. 3 clothe (oneself), esp. In vestments. [latin vestis garment]
Vestal virgin n. Rom. Antiq. Virgin consecrated to vesta and vowed to chastity.
[vesta, roman goddess of the hearth and home]
Vestry n. (pl. -ies) church room or building for keeping vestments etc. In.
Vet1 —n. Colloq. Veterinary surgeon. —v. (-tt-) make a careful and critical
examination of (a scheme, work, candidate, etc.). [abbreviation]
Vetch n. Plant of the pea family used largely for fodder. [latin vicia]
Veterinary —adj. Of or for the diseases and injuries of animals. —n. (pl. -ies)
veterinary surgeon. [latin veterinae cattle]
Veto —n. (pl. -es) 1 right to reject a measure, resolution, etc. Unilaterally. 2
rejection, prohibition. —v. (-oes, -oed) 1 reject (a measure etc.). 2 forbid,
prohibit. [latin, = i forbid]
Via prep. Through (london to rome via paris; send it via your son). [latin,
ablative of via way]
Viable adj. 1 (of a plan etc.) Feasible, esp. Economically. 2 (esp. Of a foetus)
capable of developing and surviving independently. viability n. [french vie life]
Viaduct n. Long bridge, esp. A series of arches, carrying a road or railway across
a valley or hollow. [latin via way, after *aqueduct]
Vial n. Small (usu. Cylindrical glass) vessel, esp. For holding medicines. [related
to *phial]
Viaticum n. (pl. -ca) eucharist given to a dying person. [latin via road]
Vibrant adj. 1 vibrating. 2 (often foll. By with) thrilling, lively. 3 (of sound)
resonant. 4 (of colours) bright and striking. vibrancy n. Vibrantly adv. [latin:
related to *vibrate]
Vibrate v. (-ting) 1 move rapidly to and fro. 2 (of a sound) throb; resonate. 3
(foll. By with) quiver, thrill. 4 swing to and fro, oscillate. [latin vibro shake]
Vice2 n. (us vise) clamp with two jaws holding an object so as to leave the hands
free to work on it. [vis screw, from latin vitis vine]
Vice3 prep. In the place of; succeeding. [latin, ablative of (vix) vicis change]
Vice versa adj. With the order of the terms changed; the other way round. [latin,
= the position being reversed]
Victorian —adj. 1 of the time of queen victoria. 2 prudish; strict. —n. Person of
this time.
Victual —n. (usu. In pl.) Food, provisions. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 supply with
victuals. 2 obtain stores. 3 eat victuals. [latin victus food]
Victualer n. (brit. Victualler) 1 person etc. Who supplies victuals. 2 (in full
licensed victualler) publican etc. Licensed to sell alcohol.
Victualler n. (us victualer) 1 person etc. Who supplies victuals. 2 (in full licensed
victualler) publican etc. Licensed to sell alcohol.
Vicuña n. 1 s. American mammal like a llama, with fine silky wool. 2 a cloth
from its wool. B imitation of this. [spanish from quechua]
Vide v. (in imper.) See, consult (a passage in a book etc.). [latin video see]
Video recorder n. (also video cassette recorder) apparatus for recording and
playing videotapes.
Videotape —n. Magnetic tape for recording moving pictures and sound. —v. (-
ping) record on this.
Vie v. (vies; vied; vying) (often foll. By with) compete; strive for superiority.
[probably french: related to *envy]
View —n. 1 range of vision (came into view). 2 a what is seen; prospect, scene,
etc. B picture etc. Of this. 3 a opinion. B manner of considering a thing (took a
long-term view). 4 inspection by the eye or mind (private view). —v. 1 look at;
inspect with the idea of purchasing; survey visually or mentally. 2 form a mental
impression or opinion of; consider. 3 watch television. have in view 1 have as
one’s object. 2 bear (a circumstance) in mind. In view of considering. On view
being shown or exhibited. With a view to with the hope or intention of. [latin
video see]
Viewer n. 1 person who views, esp. Television. 2 device for looking at film
transparencies etc.
Vigil n. 1 keeping awake during the night etc., esp. To keep watch or pray. 2 eve
of a festival or holy day. [latin vigilia]
Villa n. 1 country house; mansion. 2 rented holiday home, esp. Abroad. 3 (usu.
As part of an address) detached or semi-detached house in a residential district.
[italian and latin]
Village n. 1 country settlement, larger than a hamlet and smaller than a town. 2
self-contained village-like community within a city etc. (greenwich village;
olympic village). villager n. [latin: related to *villa]
Villain n. 1 wicked person. 2 chief evil character in a play, story, etc. 3 colloq.
Professional criminal. 4 colloq. Rascal. [latin: related to *villa]
Villainous adj. Wicked.
Vinaigrette n. 1 salad dressing of oil, wine vinegar, and seasoning. 2 small bottle
for smelling-salts. [french, diminutive: related to *vinegar]
Vine n. 1 climbing or trailing plant with a woody stem, esp. Bearing grapes. 2
stem of this. [latin vinea vineyard]
Vinegar n. Sour liquid got from malt, wine, cider, etc., by fermentation and used
as a condiment or for pickling. vinegary adj. [french, = sour wine: related to
*eager]
Vinous adj. 1 of, like, or due to wine. 2 addicted to wine. [latin vinum wine]
Viol n. Medieval stringed instrument of various sizes, like a violin but held
vertically. [french from provençal]
Viola1 n. Instrument larger than the violin and of lower pitch. [italian and
spanish: related to *viol]
Viola2 n. Any plant of the genus including the pansy and violet, esp. A
cultivated hybrid. [latin, = violet]
Violate v. (-ting) 1 disregard; break (an oath, treaty, law, etc.). 2 treat (a
sanctuary etc.) Profanely; disrespect. 3 disturb (a person’s privacy etc.). 4 rape.
violable adj. Violation n. Violator n. [latin violo]
Violent adj. 1 involving or using great physical force (violent person; violent
storm). 2 a intense, vehement (violent pain; violent dislike). B lurid (violent
colours). 3 (of death) resulting from violence or poison. violently adv. [french
from latin]
Violet —n. 1 sweet-scented plant with usu. Purple, blue, or white flowers. 2
bluish-purple colour at the end of the spectrum opposite red. 3 pigment or
clothes or material of this colour. —adj. Of this colour. [french diminutive of
viole *viola2]
Violoncello n. (pl. -s) formal = *cello. [italian, diminutive of violone bass viol]
Virgin —n. 1 person who has never had sexual intercourse. 2 (the virgin) christ’s
mother mary. 3 (the virgin) sign or constellation virgo. —adj. 1 not yet used etc.
2 virginal. [latin virgo -gin-]
Virginal —adj. Of or befitting a virgin. —n. (usu. In pl.) Mus. Legless spinet in
a box. [latin: related to *virgin]
Virgin birth n. 1 (usu. Preceded by the) doctrine of christ’s birth from a virgin
mother. 2 parthenogenesis.
mother. 2 parthenogenesis.
Virgo n. (pl. -s) 1 constellation and sixth sign of the zodiac (the virgin). 2 person
born when the sun is in this sign. [latin: related to *virgin]
Virtual adj. Being so in practice though not strictly or in name (the virtual
manager; a virtual promise). [medieval latin: related to *virtue]
Virtuous adj. 1 morally good. 2 archaic chaste. virtuously adv. [latin: related to
*virtue]
Viscid adj. Glutinous, sticky. [latin: related to *viscous]
Viscose n. 1 cellulose in a highly viscous state, used for making rayon etc. 2
fabric made from this. [latin: related to *viscous]
Vise n. (brit. Vice) clamp with two jaws holding an object so as to leave the
hands free to work on it. [vis screw, from latin vitis vine]
Visit —v. (-t-) 1 (also absol.) Go or come to see or inspect (a person, place, etc.).
2 stay temporarily with (a person) or at (a place). 3 (of a disease, calamity, etc.)
Attack. 4 a (foll. By with) punish (a person). B (often foll. By upon) inflict
punishment for (a sin). —n. 1 a act of visiting. B temporary stay, esp. As a guest.
2 (foll. By to) occasion of going to a doctor etc. 3 formal or official call. [latin:
related to *vision]
Visitor n. 1 person who visits. 2 migrant bird staying for part of the year.
Visitors’ book n. Book for visitors to a hotel, church, etc., to sign, make remarks
in, etc.
Visor n. (also vizor) 1 movable part of a helmet covering the face. 2 shield for
Visor n. (also vizor) 1 movable part of a helmet covering the face. 2 shield for
the eyes, esp. One at the top of a vehicle windscreen. [anglo-french viser: related
to *visage]
Vista n. 1 long narrow view as between rows of trees. 2 mental view of a long
series of events. [italian]
Vitalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 endow with life. 2 make lively or
vigorous. vitalization n.
Vital statistics n.pl. 1 joc. Measurements of a woman’s bust, waist, and hips. 2
the number of births, marriages, deaths, etc.
Vitreous humour n. Clear fluid in the eye between the lens and the retina.
Vitrify v. (-ies, -ied) change into glass or a glasslike substance, esp. By heat.
vitrifaction n. Vitrification n. [french or medieval latin: related to *vitreous]
Viva1 colloq. —n. (pl. -s) = *viva voce. —v. (vivas, vivaed, vivaing) = viva-
voce. [abbreviation]
Viva2 —int. Long live. —n. Cry of this as a salute etc. [italian, = let live]
Vivacious adj. Lively, animated. vivacity n. [latin vivax from vivo live]
Vivarium n. (pl. -ria or -s) 1 glass bowl etc. For keeping animals for scientific
study. 2 enclosure for keeping animals in (nearly) their natural state. [latin]
Viva voce —adj. Oral. —adv. Orally. —n. Oral examination. —v. (viva-voce) (-
vocees, -voceed, -voceing) examine orally. [medieval latin, = with the living
voice]
Vivid adj. 1 (of light or colour) strong, intense. 2 (of a memory, description, the
imagination, etc.) Clear, lively, graphic. vividly adv. Vividness n. [latin]
imagination, etc.) Clear, lively, graphic. vividly adv. Vividness n. [latin]
Vivify v. (-ies, -ied) enliven, animate, give life to. [french from latin]
Viviparous adj. Zool. Bringing forth young alive. [latin vivus alive, pario
produce]
Vizier n. Hist. High official in some muslim countries. [ultimately from arabic]
Vocable n. Word, esp. With reference to form not meaning. [latin voco call]
Vocal —adj. 1 of or uttered by the voice. 2 outspoken (very vocal about his
rights). —n. (in sing. Or pl.) Sung part or piece of music. vocally adv. [latin:
related to *voice]
Vocalist n. Singer.
Vocalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 form (a sound) or utter (a word) with the
voice. 2 articulate, express. vocalization n.
Vocative gram. —n. Case of a noun used in addressing a person or thing. —adj.
Of or in this case.
Vodka n. Alcoholic spirit distilled esp. In russia from rye etc. [russian]
Vogue n. 1 (prec. By the) prevailing fashion. 2 (often attrib.) Popular use (had a
great vogue). in vogue in fashion. voguish adj. [french from italian]
Voice —n. 1 a sound formed in the larynx and uttered by the mouth, esp. By a
person speaking, singing, etc. B power of this (lost her voice). 2 a use of the
voice; spoken or written expression (esp. Give voice). B opinion so expressed. C
right to express an opinion. D medium for expression. 3 gram. Set of verbal
forms showing whether a verb is active or passive. —v. (-cing) 1 express. 2 (esp.
As voiced adj.) Utter with vibration of the vocal cords (e.g. B, d). in good voice
singing or speaking well or easily. With one voice unanimously. [latin vox voc-]
Voice-box n. Larynx.
Voiceless adj. 1 dumb, speechless. 2 uttered without vibration of the vocal cords
(e.g. F, p).
Voice-over n. Commentary in a film etc. By an unseen narrator.
Void —adj. 1 empty, vacant. 2 (of a contract etc.) Invalid, not legally binding
(null and void). —n. Empty space, vacuum. —v. 1 render void. 2 excrete; empty
(the bowels etc.). void of lacking, free from. [french]
Vol-au-vent n. Small puff pastry case with a savoury filling. [french, literally
‘flight in the wind’]
Volcano n. (pl. -es) 1 mountain or hill from which lava, steam, etc. Escape
through openings in the earth’s crust. 2 volatile situation. [latin volcanus vulcan,
roman god of fire]
Volleyball n. Game for two teams of six hitting a large ball by hand over a high
net.
Volt n. Si unit of electromotive force, the difference of potential that would carry
one ampere of current against one ohm resistance. [volta, name of a physicist]
Volume n. 1 single book forming part or all of a work. 2 a solid content, bulk. B
space occupied by a gas or liquid. C (foll. By of) amount or quantity. 3 strength
of sound, loudness. 4 (foll. By of) a moving mass of water etc. B (usu. In pl.)
Mass of smoke etc. [latin volumen: related to *voluble, ancient books being in
roll form]
Voluminous adj. 1 (of drapery etc.) Loose and ample. 2 written or writing at
great length. [latin: related to *volume]
Volunteer —n. Person who voluntarily undertakes a task or enters military etc.
Service. —v. 1 (often foll. By to + infin.) Undertake or offer (one’s services, a
remark, etc.) Voluntarily. 2 (often foll. By for) be a volunteer. [french: related to
*voluntary]
Voluptuary n. (pl. -ies) person who seeks luxury and sensual pleasure. [latin:
related to *voluptuous]
Voluptuous adj. 1 of, tending to, occupied with, or derived from, sensuous or
sensual pleasure. 2 (of a woman) curvaceous and sexually desirable.
voluptuously adv. [latin voluptas pleasure]
Vomit —v. (-t-) 1 eject (contents of the stomach) through the mouth; be sick. 2
(of a volcano, chimney, etc.) Eject violently, belch forth. —n. Matter vomited
from the stomach. [latin]
Voodoo —n. Religious witchcraft as practised esp. In the w. Indies. —v. (-doos,
-dooed) affect by voodoo; bewitch. [dahomey]
Votary n. (pl. -ies; fem. Votaress) (usu. Foll. By of) 1 person dedicated to the
service of a god or cult. 2 devotee of a person, occupation, etc. [latin: related to
*vote]
Vouch v. (foll. By for) answer for, be surety for (will vouch for the truth of this;
can vouch for him). [french vo(u)cher summon, invoke]
Vow —n. Solemn, esp. Religious, promise (monastic vows; marriage vows). —
v. 1 promise solemnly. 2 archaic declare solemnly. [french vou(er): related to
v. 1 promise solemnly. 2 archaic declare solemnly. [french vou(er): related to
*vote]
Vowel n. 1 speech-sound made with vibration of the vocal cords but without
audible friction. 2 letter(s) representing this, as a, e, i, o, u, aw, ah. [latin: related
to *vocal]
Vox populi n. Public opinion, popular belief. [latin, = the people’s voice]
Voyage —n. Journey, esp. A long one by sea or in space. —v. (-ging) make a
voyage. voyager n. [latin *viaticum]
Voyeur n. 1 person who derives sexual pleasure from secretly observing others’
sexual activity or organs. 2 (esp. Covert) spectator. voyeurism n. Voyeuristic adj.
[french voir see]
V-sign n. 1 sign of the letter v made with the first two fingers pointing up and
the back of the hand facing outwards, as a gesture of abuse etc. 2 similar sign
made with the palm of the hand facing outwards, as a symbol of victory.
Vulcanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) treat (rubber etc.) With sulphur at a high
temperature to strengthen it. vulcanization n. [vulcan: related to *volcano]
Vulgarian n. Vulgar (esp. Rich) person.
Wad —n. 1 lump of soft material used esp. To keep things apart or in place or to
block a hole. 2 bundle of banknotes or documents. —v. (-dd-) 1 stop up or keep
in place with a wad. 2 line, stuff, or protect with wadding. [origin uncertain]
Waddle —v. (-ling) walk with short steps and a swaying motion. —n. Waddling
gait. [from *wade]
gait. [from *wade]
Wade —v. (-ding) 1 walk through water, mud, etc., esp. With difficulty. 2 (foll.
By through) go through (a tedious task, book, etc.). 3 (foll. By into) colloq.
Attack (a person or task) vigorously. —n. Spell of wading. wade in colloq. Make
a vigorous attack or intervention. [old english]
Wader n. 1 long-legged water-bird that wades. 2 (in pl.) High waterproof boots.
Wadi n. (pl. -s) rocky watercourse in n. Africa etc., dry except in the rainy
season. [arabic]
Wafer n. 1 very thin light crisp sweet biscuit. 2 disc of unleavened bread used in
the eucharist. 3 disc of red paper stuck on a legal document instead of a seal.
[anglo-french wafre from germanic]
Waffle1 colloq. —n. Verbose but aimless or ignorant talk or writing. —v. (-ling)
indulge in waffle. [dial., = yelp]
Waffle-iron n. Utensil, usu. Of two shallow metal pans hinged together, for
baking waffles.
Waft —v. Convey or travel easily and smoothly as through air or over water. —
n. (usu. Foll. By of) whiff or scent. [originally ‘convoy (ship etc.)’ From dutch
or low german wachter from wachten to guard]
Wag1 —v. (-gg-) shake or wave to and fro. —n. Single wagging motion (with a
wag of his tail). tongues wag there is talk. [old english]
Wage —n. (in sing. Or pl.) Fixed regular payment to an employee, esp. A
manual worker. —v. (-ging) carry on (a war etc.). [anglo-french from germanic]
Waggly adj. Unsteady; waggling.
Waifs and strays n.pl. 1 homeless or neglected children. 2 odds and ends.
Wail —n. 1 prolonged plaintive high-pitched cry of pain, grief, etc. 2 sound like
this. —v. 1 utter a wail. 2 lament or complain persistently or bitterly. [old norse]
Waist n. 1 a part of the human body below the ribs and above the hips; narrower
middle part of the normal human figure. B circumference of this. 2 narrow
middle of a violin, wasp, etc. 3 a part of a garment encircling the waist. B us
blouse, bodice. 4 part of a ship between the forecastle and the quarterdeck.
waisted adj. (also in comb.). [old english: related to *wax2]
Wait —v. 1 a defer action or departure for a specified time or until some event
occurs (wait a minute; wait till i come; wait for a fine day). B be expectant. 2
await (an opportunity, one’s turn, etc.). 3 defer (a meal etc.) Until a person’s
arrival. 4 (usu. As waiting n.) Park a vehicle for a short time. 5 act as a waiter or
attendant. 6 (foll. By on, upon) a await the convenience of. B serve as an
attendant to. C pay a respectful visit to. —n. 1 period of waiting. 2 (usu. Foll. By
for) watching for an enemy (lie in wait). 3 (in pl.) Archaic street singers of
christmas carols. wait and see await the progress of events. Wait up (often foll.
By for) not go to bed until a person arrives or an event happens. You wait! Used
to imply a threat, warning, etc. [germanic: related to *wake1]
Waiting game n. The delaying of action in order to have a greater effect later.
Waiting-room n. Room for people to wait in, esp. To see a doctor etc. Or at a
station.
Wake1 —v. (-king; past woke or waked; past part. Woken or waked) 1 (often
foll. By up) (cause to) cease to sleep. 2 (often foll. By up) (cause to) become
alert or attentive. 3 archaic (except as waking adj. & n.) Be awake (waking
hours). 4 disturb with noise. 5 evoke (an echo). —n. 1 watch beside a corpse
before burial; attendant lamentation and (less often) merrymaking. 2 (usu. In pl.)
Annual holiday in (industrial) northern england. [old english]
Wake2 n. 1 track left on the water’s surface by a moving ship. 2 turbulent air left
behind a moving aircraft etc. in the wake of following, as a result of. [low
german from old norse]
Wakeful adj. 1 unable to sleep. 2 (of a night etc.) Sleepless. 3 vigilant. wakefully
adv. Wakefulness n.
Wale n. 1 = *weal1. 2 ridge on corduroy etc. 3 naut. A broad thick timber along
a ship’s side. [old english]
Walk —v. 1 a progress by lifting and setting down each foot in turn, never
having both feet off the ground at once. B (of a quadruped) go with the slowest
gait. 2 a travel or go on foot. B take exercise in this way. 3 traverse on foot at
walking speed, tread the floor or surface of. 4 cause to walk with one (walk the
dog). —n. 1 a act of walking, the ordinary human gait. B slowest gait of an
animal. C person’s manner of walking. 2 a distance which can be walked in a
(usu. Specified) time (ten minutes’ walk from here). B excursion on foot. 3 place
or track intended or suitable for walking. walk all over colloq. 1 defeat easily. 2
take advantage of. Walk away from 1 easily outdistance. 2 refuse to become
involved with. Walk away with colloq. = walk off with. Walk into colloq. 1
encounter through unwariness. 2 get (a job) easily. Walk off with colloq. 1 steal.
2 win easily. Walk on air feel elated.
Walk-in attrib. Adj. (of a storage area) large enough to walk into.
Walking frame n. Tubular metal frame for disabled or old people to help them
walk.
Walk-on n. 1 (in full walk-on part) non-speaking dramatic role. 2 player of this.
Wall —n. 1 continuous vertical narrow structure of usu. Brick or stone, esp.
Enclosing or dividing a space or supporting a roof. 2 thing like a wall, esp.: a a
steep side of a mountain. B anat. The outermost layer or enclosing membrane
etc. Of an organ etc. —v. 1 (esp. As walled adj.) Surround with a wall. 2 a (usu.
Foll. By up, off) block (a space etc.) With a wall. B (foll. By up) enclose within
a sealed space. go to the wall be defeated or pushed aside. Off the wall us slang
unorthodox. Up the wall colloq. Crazy or furious. Walls have ears beware of
eavesdroppers. wall-less adj. [latin vallum rampart]
Wall bar n. One of a set of parallel bars attached to the wall of a gymnasium, on
which exercises are performed.
Wallet n. Small flat esp. Leather case for holding banknotes etc. [anglo-french]
Wall-eye n. 1 eye with a streaked or opaque white iris. 2 eye squinting outwards.
wall-eyed adj. [old norse]
Wallop colloq. —v. (-p-) 1 thrash; beat. 2 (as walloping adj.) Huge. —n. 1 heavy
blow. 2 beer. [earlier senses ‘gallop’, ‘boil’, from french waloper from germanic:
cf. *gallop]
Wallow —v. 1 (esp. Of an animal) roll about in mud etc. 2 (usu. Foll. By in)
indulge in unrestrained pleasure, misery, etc. —n. 1 act of wallowing. 2 place
used by buffalo etc. For wallowing. [old english]
Wall-to-wall adj. 1 (of a carpet) fitted to cover a whole room etc. 2 colloq.
Ubiquitous (wall-to-wall pop music).
Walnut n. 1 tree with aromatic leaves and drooping catkins. 2 nut of this tree. 3
its timber. [old english, = foreign nut]
Waltz —n. 1 ballroom dance in triple time performed by couples revolving with
sliding steps. 2 music for this. —v. 1 dance a waltz. 2 (often foll. By in, out,
round, etc.) Colloq. Move easily, lightly, casually, etc. waltz off with colloq. 1
steal. 2 win easily. [german walzer from walzen revolve]
Wampum n. Beads made from shells and strung together for use as money,
decoration, etc. By n. American indians. [algonquian]
Wander v. 1 (often foll. By in, off, etc.) Go about from place to place aimlessly.
2 a wind about; meander. B stray from a path etc. 3 talk or think incoherently; be
inattentive or delirious. wanderer n. [old english: related to *wend]
Wane —v. (-ning) 1 (of the moon) decrease in apparent size. 2 decrease in
power, vigour, importance, size, etc. —n. Process of waning. on the wane
waning; declining. [old english]
Wangle colloq. —v. (-ling) (often refl.) Contrive to obtain (a favour etc.). —n.
Act of wangling. [origin unknown]
Wank coarse slang —v. Masturbate. —n. Act of masturbating. [origin unknown]
Wannabe n. Slang 1 avid fan who tries to emulate the person he or she admires.
2 anybody who would like to be someone else. [corruption of want to be]
Want —v. 1 a (often foll. By to + infin.) Desire; wish for possession of; need
(wants a drink; wants it done immediately). B require to be attended to; need
(garden wants weeding). C (foll. By to + infin.) Colloq. Ought; should (you want
to be careful). 2 (usu. Foll. By for) lack; be deficient. 3 be without or fall short
by. 4 (as wanted adj.) (of a suspected criminal etc.) Sought by the police. —n. 1
(often foll. By of) lack, absence, or deficiency (could not go for want of time). 2
poverty; need. [old norse]
poverty; need. [old norse]
War —n. 1 a armed hostilities between esp. Nations; conflict. B specific instance
or period of this. C suspension of international law etc. During this. 2 hostility or
contention between people, groups, etc. 3 (often foll. By on) sustained campaign
against crime, poverty, etc. —v. (-rr-) 1 (as warring adj.) Rival; fighting. 2 make
war. at war (often foll. By with) engaged in a war. Go to war declare or begin a
war.
War crime n. Crime violating the international laws of war. war criminal n.
War cry n. 1 phrase or name shouted to rally one’s troops. 2 party slogan etc.
-ward suffix (also -wards) added to nouns of place or destination and to adverbs
of direction and forming: 1 adverbs (usu. -wards) meaning ‘towards’
(backwards; homewards). 2 adjectives (usu. -ward) meaning ‘turned or tending
towards’ (downward; onward). 3 (less commonly) nouns meaning ‘the region
towards or about’ (look to the eastward). [old english]
Wardship n. Tutelage.
Ware n. 1 (esp. In comb.) Things of a specified kind made usu. For sale
(chinaware; hardware). 2 (usu. In pl.) Articles for sale. 3 ceramics etc. Of a
specified kind (delft ware). [old english]
Warehouse —n. 1 building in which goods are stored. 2 wholesale or large retail
store. —v. (-sing) store temporarily in a repository.
Warming-pan n. Hist. Container for live coals with a flat body and a long
handle, used for warming a bed.
Warm work n. 1 work etc. That makes one warm through exertion. 2 dangerous
conflict etc.
Warp —v. 1 a make or become distorted, esp. Through heat, damp, etc. B make
or become perverted or strange (warped sense of humour). 2 haul (a ship) by a
rope attached to a fixed point. —n. 1 a warped state, esp. Of timber. B
perversion of the mind. 2 lengthwise threads in a loom. 3 rope used in warping a
ship. [old english]
Warpaint n. 1 paint used to adorn the body before battle, esp. By n. American
indians. 2 colloq. Make-up.
Wart n. 1 small hard round growth on the skin. 2 protuberance on the skin of an
animal, surface of a plant, etc. warts and all colloq. With no attempt to conceal
blemishes. warty adj. [old english]
Wary adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 on one’s guard; circumspect. 2 (foll. By of) cautious. 3
showing caution. warily adv. Wariness n. [ware look out for, avoid]
Wash —v. 1 cleanse with liquid, esp. Water. 2 (foll. By out, off, away, etc.) A
remove (a stain) in this way. B (of a stain etc.) Be removed by washing. 3 wash
oneself or one’s hands and face. 4 wash clothes, dishes, etc. 5 (of fabric or dye)
bear washing without damage. 6 (of an argument etc.) Stand scrutiny; be
believed or acceptable. 7 (of a river, waters, etc.) Touch. 8 (of liquid) carry along
in a specified direction (was washed overboard; washed up on the shore). 9 (foll.
By over, along, etc.) Sweep, move, or splash. 10 (foll. By over) occur all around
without greatly affecting (a person). 11 sift (ore) by the action of water. 12 brush
watery paint or ink over. 13 poet. Moisten, water. —n. 1 a washing or being
washed. B (prec. By the) a laundry etc. (sent them to the wash). 2 clothes etc.
For washing or just washed. 3 motion of agitated water or air, esp.
Washed out adj. (also washed-out) 1 faded; pale. 2 colloq. Pale, exhausted.
Washerwoman n. Laundress.
Washing-soda n. Sodium carbonate, used dissolved in water for washing and
cleaning.
Washing-up n. 1 process of washing dishes etc. 2 used dishes etc. For washing.
Washy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 too watery or weak. 2 lacking vigour or intensity.
washily adv. Washiness n.
Wasp n. Stinging insect with black and yellow stripes. [old english]
Wassail archaic —n. Festive occasion; drinking-bout. —v. Make merry. [old
norse ves heill be in health: related to *whole]
Waste disposal unit n. Device fitted to a sink etc. For disposing of household
waste.
Waste-paper basket n. Receptacle for waste paper.
Watch —v. 1 keep the eyes fixed on. 2 keep under observation; follow
observantly. 3 (often foll. By for) be in an alert state; be vigilant. 4 (foll. By
over) look after; take care of. —n. 1 small portable timepiece for carrying on the
wrist or in a pocket. 2 state of alert or constant observation or attention. 3 naut.
A usu. Four-hour spell of duty. B (in full starboard or port watch) each of the
halves into which a ship’s crew is divided to take alternate watches. 4 hist.
Watchman or watchmen. on the watch for waiting for (an anticipated
occurrence). Watch it (or oneself) colloq. Be careful. Watch out (often foll. By
for) be on one’s guard. watcher n. (also in comb.). [old english: related to
*wake1]
Watching brief n. Brief of a barrister who follows a case for a client not directly
concerned.
Watch-night service n. Religious service held on the last night of the year.
Water bus n. Boat carrying passengers on a regular run on a river, lake, etc.
Water-diviner n. Dowser.
Water-glass n. Solution of sodium or potassium silicate used esp. For preserving
eggs.
Waterline n. Line along which the surface of water touches a ship’s side.
Waterman n. 1 boatman plying for hire. 2 oarsman as regards skill in keeping the
boat balanced.
Watermark —n. Faint design in some paper identifying the maker etc. —v. Mark
with this.
Water melon n. Large dark-green melon with red pulp and watery juice.
Water-pistol n. Toy pistol shooting a jet of water.
Water-rat n. = *water-vole.
Water-ski —n. Each of a pair of skis for skimming the surface of the water when
towed by a motor boat. —v. Travel on water-skis. water-skier n.
Waterspout n. Gyrating column of water and spray between sea and cloud.
Waterwings n.pl. Inflated floats fixed on the arms of a person learning to swim.
Watt-hour n. Energy used when one watt is applied for one hour.
Wattle1 n. 1 structure of interlaced rods and sticks used for fences etc. 2
australian acacia with pliant branches and golden flowers used as the national
emblem. [old english]
Wattle and daub n. Network of rods and twigs plastered with clay or mud as a
building material.
Wave —v. (-ving) 1 a (often foll. By to) move a hand etc. To and fro in greeting
or as a signal. B move (a hand etc.) In this way. 2 a show a sinuous or sweeping
motion as of a flag, tree, corn, etc. In the wind. B impart a waving motion to. 3
direct (a person) by waving (waved them away; waved them to follow). 4
express (a greeting etc.) By waving. 5 give an undulating form to (hair etc.). 6
(of hair etc.) Have such a form. —n. 1 ridge of water between two depressions. 2
long body of water curling into an arch and breaking on the shore. 3 thing
compared to this, e.g. A body of persons in one of successive advancing groups.
4 gesture of waving. 5 a process of waving the hair. B undulating form produced
by this. 6 temporary occurrence or increase of a condition or influence (wave of
enthusiasm; heat wave). 7 physics a disturbance of the particles of esp. A fluid
medium for the propagation or direction of motion, heat, light, sound, etc. B
single curve in this motion. 8 undulating line or outline. make waves colloq.
Cause trouble. Wave aside dismiss as intrusive or irrelevant. Wave down wave
to (a vehicle or driver) to stop. [old english]
Wavy adj. (-ier, -iest) having waves or alternate contrary curves. waviness n.
Wax1 —n. 1 sticky plastic yellowish substance secreted by bees as the material
of honeycomb. 2 this bleached and purified, used for candles, modelling, etc. 3
any similar substance, e.g. The yellow substance secreted by the ear. —v. 1
cover or treat with wax. 2 remove unwanted hair from (legs etc.) Using wax.
waxy adj. (-ier, -iest). [old english]
Wax2 v. 1 (of the moon) increase in apparent size. 2 become larger or stronger. 3
pass into a specified state or mood (wax lyrical). wax and wane undergo
alternate increases and decreases. [old english]
Waxwing n. Any of various birds with tips like red sealing-wax to some wing-
feathers.
Way —n. 1 road, track, path, etc., for passing along. 2 course or route for
reaching a place (asked the way to london; the way out). 3 method or plan for
attaining an object. 4 style, manner (i like the way you dress). 5 person’s chosen
or habitual course of action. 6 normal course of events (that is always the way).
7 travelling distance; length traversed or to be traversed. 8 unimpeded
opportunity or space to advance (make way). 9 advance in some direction;
impetus, progress (under way). 10 being engaged in movement from place to
place; time spent in this (on the way home). 11 specified direction (step this
way). 12 colloq. Scope or range. 13 line of occupation or business. 14 specified
condition or state (things are in a bad way). 15 respect (is useful in some ways).
16 (in pl.) Part into which a thing is divided (split it three ways). 17 (in pl.)
Structure of timber etc. Down which a new ship is launched. —adv. Colloq. Far
(way off). by the way incidentally. By way of 1 by means of. 2 as a form of. 3
passing through. Come one’s way become available to one. Get out of the (or my
etc.) Way stop obstructing a person. Go out of one’s way make a special effort.
In a way to some extent. In the (or one’s) way forming an obstruction. Lead the
way act as guide or leader. Look the other way ignore what one should notice.
On the (or one’s) way 1 in the course of a journey etc. 2 having progressed. 3
colloq. (of a child) conceived but not yet born. On the way out colloq. Going out
of fashion or favour. Out of the way 1 no longer an obstacle. 2 disposed of. 3
unusual. 4 (of a place) remote. [old english]
Waylay v. (past and past part. Waylaid) 1 lie in wait for. 2 stop to talk to or rob.
Wb abbr. Weber(s).
We pron. (obj. Us; poss. Our, ours) 1 pl. Of *i2. 2 used for or by a royal person
in a proclamation etc. Or by an editor etc. In a formal context. [old english]
Weak-kneed adj. Colloq. Lacking resolution.
Weakly —adv. In a weak manner. —adj. (-ier, -iest) sickly, not robust.
Weak point n. (also weak spot) 1 place where defences are assailable. 2 flaw in
an argument or character or in resistance to temptation.
Weal1 —n. Ridge raised on the flesh by a stroke of a rod or whip. —v. Mark
with a weal. [var. Of *wale]
Wean v. 1 accustom (an infant or other young mammal) to food other than (esp.
Its mother’s) milk. 2 (often foll. By from, away from) disengage (from a habit
etc.) By enforced discontinuance. [old english, = accustom]
Weapon n. 1 thing designed, used, or usable for inflicting bodily harm. 2 means
for gaining the advantage in a conflict. [old english]
Wear —v. (past wore; past part. Worn) 1 have on one’s person as clothing or an
ornament etc. 2 exhibit or present (a facial expression etc.) (wore a frown). 3
colloq. (usu. With neg.) Tolerate. 4 (often foll. By away, down) a injure the
surface of, or partly obliterate or alter, by rubbing, stress, or use. B undergo such
injury or change. 5 (foll. By off, away) rub or be rubbed off. 6 make (a hole etc.)
By constant rubbing or dripping etc. 7 (often foll. By out) exhaust. 8 (foll. By
down) overcome by persistence. 9 (foll. By well etc.) Endure continued use or
life. 10 (of time) pass, esp. Tediously. 11 (of a ship) fly (a flag). —n. 1 wearing
or being worn. 2 things worn; fashionable or suitable clothing (sportswear;
footwear). 3 (in full wear and tear) damage from continuous use. wear one’s
heart on one’s sleeve show one’s feelings openly. Wear off lose effectiveness or
intensity. Wear out 1 use or be used until useless. 2 tire or be tired out. Wear thin
(of patience, excuses, etc.) Begin to fail. Wear the trousers see *trousers. wearer
n. [old english]
Weary —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 very tired after exertion or endurance. 2 (foll. By of)
Weary —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 very tired after exertion or endurance. 2 (foll. By of)
no longer interested in, tired of. 3 tiring, tedious. —v. (-ies, -ied) make or grow
weary. wearily adv. Weariness n. [old english]
Weasel n. Small flesh-eating mammal related to the stoat and ferret. [old
english]
Weather —n. 1 state of the atmosphere at a place and time as regards heat,
cloudiness, dryness, sunshine, wind, and rain etc. 2 (attrib.) Naut. Windward. —
v. 1 expose to or affect by atmospheric changes; season (wood). 2 be discoloured
or worn in this way. 3 a come safely through (a storm). B survive (a difficult
period etc.). 4 get to the windward of (a cape etc.). keep a weather eye open be
watchful. Make heavy weather of colloq. Exaggerate the difficulty presented by.
Under the weather colloq. Indisposed. [old english]
Weave1 —v. (-ving; past wove; past part. Woven or wove) 1 a form (fabric) by
interlacing long threads in two directions. B form (thread) into fabric in this way.
2 make fabric in this way. 3 a (foll. By into) make (facts etc.) Into a story or
connected whole. B make (a story) in this way. —n. Style of weaving. [old
english]
Weave2 v. (-ving) move repeatedly from side to side; take an intricate course to
avoid obstructions. get weaving slang begin action; hurry. [old norse: related to
*wave]
Weaver n. 1 person who weaves fabric. 2 (in full weaver-bird) tropical bird
building elaborately woven nests.
Web n. 1 a woven fabric. B amount woven in one piece. 2 complex series (web
of lies). 3 cobweb, gossamer, or a similar product of a spinning creature. 4
membrane between the toes of a swimming animal or bird. 5 large roll of paper
used in printing. 6 thin flat connecting part in machinery etc. webbed adj. [old
english]
Webbing n. Strong narrow closely-woven fabric used for belts etc.
Wed v. (-dd-; past and past part. Wedded or wed) 1 usu. Formal or literary
marry. 2 unite. 3 (as wedded adj.) Of or in marriage (wedded bliss). 4 (as
wedded adj.) (foll. By to) obstinately attached or devoted to (a pursuit etc.). [old
english, = pledge]
Wedding breakfast n. Meal etc. Between a wedding and departure for the
honeymoon.
Wedge —n. 1 piece of tapering wood or metal etc. Driven between two objects
or parts to secure or separate them. 2 anything resembling a wedge. 3 golf club
with a wedge-shaped head. —v. (-ging) 1 secure or fasten with a wedge. 2 force
open or apart with a wedge. 3 (foll. By in, into) pack or thrust (a thing or
oneself) tightly in or into. thin end of the wedge colloq. Thing of little
importance in itself, but likely to lead to more serious developments. [old
english]
Wedgwood n. Propr. 1 a kind of fine stoneware usu. With a white cameo design.
2 its characteristic blue colour. [wedgwood, name of a potter]
Wedlock n. The married state. born in (or out of) wedlock born of married (or
unmarried) parents. [old english, = marriage vow]
Wee1 adj. (weer; weest) 1 esp. Scot. Little. 2 colloq. Tiny. [old english]
Weed —n. 1 wild plant growing where it is not wanted. 2 thin weak-looking
person or horse. 3 (prec. By the) slang a marijuana. B tobacco. —v. 1 a clear (an
area) of weeds. B remove unwanted parts from. 2 (foll. By out) a sort out and
remove (inferior or unwanted parts etc.). B rid of inferior parts, unwanted
members, etc. 3 cut off or uproot weeds. [old english]
Weeds n.pl. (in full widow’s weeds) archaic deep mourning worn by a widow.
[old english, = garment]
Week n. 1 period of seven days reckoned usu. From midnight on saturday. 2 any
period of seven days. 3 the six days between sundays. 4 a the five days monday
to friday. B time spent working in this period (35-hour week; three-day week).
[old english]
Weekender n. Person who spends the weekend away from home; weekend
visitor.
Weekly —adj. Done, produced, or occurring once a week. —adv. Once a week.
—n. (pl. -ies) weekly newspaper or periodical.
—n. (pl. -ies) weekly newspaper or periodical.
Weep —v. (past and past part. Wept) 1 shed tears. 2 (often foll. By for) bewail,
lament over. 3 a be covered with or send forth drops. B come or send forth in
drops; exude liquid. 4 (as weeping adj.) (of a tree) having drooping branches. —
n. Spell of weeping. [old english]
Wee-wee colloq. —n. 1 act of urinating. 2 urine. —v. (-wees, -weed) urinate.
[origin unknown]
Weft n. 1 threads woven across a warp to make fabric. 2 yarn for these. 3 thing
woven. [old english: related to *weave1]
Weigh v. 1 find the weight of. 2 balance in the hands to guess or as if to guess
the weight of. 3 (often foll. By out) take a definite weight of (a substance);
measure out (a specified weight) (weigh out the flour; weigh out 6 oz). 4 a
estimate the relative value, importance, or desirability of. B (foll. By with,
against) compare. 5 be equal to (a specified weight). 6 have (esp. A specified)
importance; exert an influence. 7 (often foll. By on) be heavy or burdensome
(to); be depressing (to). weigh down 1 bring down by exerting weight. 2 be
(to); be depressing (to). weigh down 1 bring down by exerting weight. 2 be
oppressive to. Weigh in (of a boxer before a contest, or a jockey after a race) be
weighed. Weigh in with colloq. Advance (an argument etc.) Boldly. Weigh out
(of a jockey) be weighed before a race. Weigh up colloq. Form an estimate of.
Weigh one’s words carefully choose the way one expresses something. [old
english, = carry]
Weightless adj. (of a body, esp. In an orbiting spacecraft etc.) Not apparently
acted on by gravity. weightlessness n.
Weighty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 heavy. 2 momentous. 3 (of utterances etc.) Deserving
consideration. 4 influential, authoritative. weightily adv. Weightiness n.
Weir n. Dam across a river to raise the level of water upstream or regulate its
flow. [old english]
Welcome —n. Act of greeting or receiving gladly; kind or glad reception. —int.
Expressing such a greeting. —v. (-ming) receive with a welcome. —adj. 1 that
one receives with pleasure (welcome guest; welcome news). 2 (foll. By to, or to
+ infin.) Cordially allowed or invited (you are welcome to use my car). make
welcome receive hospitably. Outstay one’s welcome stay too long as a visitor
etc. You are welcome there is no need for thanks. [old english]
Weld —v. 1 a hammer or press (pieces of iron or other metal usu. Heated but not
melted) into one piece. B join by fusion with an electric arc etc. C form by
welding into some article. 2 fashion into an effectual or homogeneous whole. —
n. Welded joint. welder n. [alteration of *well2, probably influenced by the form
welled]
Welfare state n. 1 system whereby the state undertakes to protect the health and
well-being of its citizens by means of grants, pensions, etc. 2 country practising
this system.
Welfare work n. Organized effort for the welfare of the poor, disabled, etc.
Well1 —adv. (better, best) 1 in a satisfactory way (works well). 2 with some
distinction (plays the piano well). 3 in a kind way (treated me well). 4
thoroughly, carefully (polish it well). 5 with heartiness or approval (speak well
of). 6 probably, reasonably (you may well be right). 7 to a considerable extent (is
well over forty). —adj. (better, best) 1 (usu. Predic.) In good health. 2 (predic.)
A in a satisfactory state or position. B advisable (it would be well to enquire). —
int. Expressing surprise, resignation, etc., or used to introduce speech. leave well
alone avoid needless change or disturbance. Well and truly decisively,
completely. Well away 1 having made considerable progress. 2 colloq. Fast
asleep or drunk. Well done! Expressing praise for something done. Well worth
certainly worth. [old english]
Well2 —n. 1 shaft sunk into the ground to obtain water, oil, etc. 2 enclosed
space like a well-shaft, e.g. In the middle of a building for stairs or a lift, or for
light or ventilation. 3 (foll. By of) source. 4 (in pl.) Spa. 5 = *ink-well. 6 archaic
water-spring. 7 railed space in a lawcourt. —v. (foll. By out, up) spring as from a
fountain. [old english]
Well-head n. Source.
Wellington n. (in full wellington boot) waterproof boot usu. Reaching the knee.
[duke of wellington]
Well off adj. (also well-off) 1 having plenty of money. 2 in a fortunate situation.
Well-paid adj. 1 (of a job) that pays well. 2 (of a person) amply rewarded for a
job.
Well-preserved adj. 1 in good condition. 2 (of an old person) showing little sign
of age.
Well-spring n. = *well-head.
Welsh —adj. Of or relating to wales or its people or language. —n. 1 the celtic
language of wales. 2 (prec. By the; treated as pl.) The people of wales. [old
english, ultimately from latin volcae, name of a celtic people]
Welsh v. (also welch) 1 (of a loser of a bet, esp. A bookmaker) decamp without
paying. 2 evade an obligation. 3 (foll. By on) a fail to carry out a promise to (a
person). B fail to honour (an obligation). [origin unknown]
Welsh rabbit n. (also, by folk etymology, welsh rarebit) dish of melted cheese
etc. On toast.
Welt —n. 1 leather rim sewn round the edge of a shoe-upper for the sole to be
Welt —n. 1 leather rim sewn round the edge of a shoe-upper for the sole to be
attached to. 2 = *weal1. 3 ribbed or reinforced border of a garment. 4 heavy
blow. —v. 1 provide with a welt. 2 raise weals on; thrash. [origin unknown]
Welter1 —v. 1 roll, wallow. 2 (foll. By in) lie prostrate or be soaked in. —n. 1
general confusion. 2 (foll. By of) disorderly mixture or contrast. [low german or
dutch]
Wen n. Benign tumour on the skin, esp. On the scalp. [old english]
Wench n. Joc. Girl or young woman. [abbreviation of wenchel, from old english,
= child]
Wend v. wend one’s way make one’s way. [old english, = turn]
Wendy house n. Children’s small houselike tent or structure for playing in.
[wendy, name of a character in barrie’s peter pan]
Were 2nd sing. Past, pl. Past, and past subjunctive of *be.
Werewolf n. (pl. -wolves) mythical being who at times changes from a person to
a wolf. [old english]
West —n. 1 a point of the horizon where the sun sets at the equinoxes. B
compass point corresponding to this. C direction in which this lies. 2 (usu. The
west) a european civilization. B states of western europe and n. America. C
western part of a country, town, etc. —adj. 1 towards, at, near, or facing the
west. 2 from the west (west wind). —adv. 1 towards, at, or near the west. 2 (foll.
By of) further west than. go west slang be killed or destroyed etc. To the west
(often followed by of) in a westerly direction. [old english]
West country n. South-western england.
Westerly —adj. & adv. 1 in a western position or direction. 2 (of a wind) from
the west. —n. (pl. -ies) such a wind.
Western —adj. Of or in the west. —n. Film or novel about cowboys in western
north america. westernmost adj.
Westernize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) influence with, or convert to, the ideas
and customs etc. Of the west.
West indian n. 1 native or national of the west indies. 2 person of west indian
descent.
Westward —adj. & adv. (also westwards) towards the west. —n. Westward
direction or region.
Wet —adj. (wetter, wettest) 1 soaked or covered with water or other liquid. 2 (of
the weather etc.) Rainy. 3 (of paint etc.) Not yet dried. 4 used with water (wet
shampoo). 5 colloq. Feeble, inept. —v. (-tt-; past and past part. Wet or wetted) 1
make wet. 2 a urinate in or on (wet the bed).
Wet-nurse —n. Woman employed to suckle another’s child. —v. 1 act as a wet-
nurse to. 2 colloq. Treat as if helpless.
Whack colloq. —v. 1 strike or beat forcefully. 2 (as whacked adj.) Tired out. —
n. 1 sharp or resounding blow. 2 slang share. have a whack at slang attempt.
[imitative]
Whale —n. (pl. Same or -s) very large marine mammal with a streamlined body
and horizontal tail. —v. (-ling) hunt whales. a whale of a colloq. An exceedingly
good or fine etc. [old english]
Wharf —n. (pl. Wharves or -s) quayside area to which a ship may be moored to
load and unload. —v. 1 moor (a ship) at a wharf. 2 store (goods) on a wharf. [old
load and unload. —v. 1 moor (a ship) at a wharf. 2 store (goods) on a wharf. [old
english]
What —interrog. Adj. 1 asking for a choice from an indefinite number or for a
statement of amount, number, or kind (what books have you read?). 2 colloq. =
which interrog.adj. (what book have you chosen?). —adj. (usu. In an
exclamation) how great or remarkable (what luck!). —rel. Adj. The or any …
that (will give you what help i can). —pron. (corresponding to the functions of
the adj.) 1 what thing or things? (what is your name?; i don’t know what you
mean). 2 (asking for a remark to be repeated) = what did you say? 3 how much
(what you must have suffered!). 4 (as rel. Pron.) That or those which; a or the or
any thing which (what followed was worse; tell me what you think). —adv. To
what extent (what does it matter?). what about what is the news or your opinion
of. What-d’you-call-it colloq. Substitute for a name not recalled. What ever what
at all or in any way (what ever do you mean?) (see also whatever). What for
colloq. 1 for what reason? 2 severe reprimand (esp. Give a person what for).
What have you (prec. By or or and) colloq. Anything else similar. What not
(prec. By and) other similar things. What’s-his (or -her or -its) -name colloq.
Substitute for a name not recalled. What’s what colloq. What is useful or
important etc. What with colloq. Because of (usu. Several things). [old english]
Whatever adj. & pron. 1 = *what (in relative uses) with the emphasis on
indefiniteness (lend me whatever you can; whatever money you have). 2 though
anything (we are safe whatever happens). 3 (with neg. Or interrog.) At all; of
any kind (there is no doubt whatever).
Wheat n. 1 cereal plant bearing dense four-sided seed-spikes. 2 its grain, used in
making flour etc. [old english]
Wheatmeal n. Flour made from wheat with some of the bran and germ removed.
Wheel —n. 1 circular frame or disc which revolves on an axle and is used for
vehicular or other mechanical motion. 2 wheel-like thing. 3 motion as of a
wheel, esp. The movement of a line of soldiers with one end as a pivot. 4 (in pl.)
Slang car. 5 = *steering-wheel. —v. 1 a turn on an axis or pivot. B swing round
in line with one end as a pivot. 2 a (often foll. By about, round) change direction
or face another way. B cause to do this. 3 push or pull (a wheeled thing, or its
load or occupant). 4 go in circles or curves. at the wheel 1 driving a vehicle. 2
directing a ship. 3 in control. On wheels (or oiled wheels) smoothly. Wheel and
deal engage in political or commercial scheming. Wheels within wheels 1
intricate machinery. 2 colloq. Indirect or secret agencies. wheeled adj. (also in
comb.). [old english]
Wheelbarrow n. Small handcart with one wheel and two shafts.
Wheel-clamp n. = *clamp1 n. 2.
Wheelie n. Slang stunt of riding a bicycle or motor cycle with the front wheel off
the ground.
Wheeze —v. (-zing) 1 breathe with an audible whistling sound. 2 utter with this
Wheeze —v. (-zing) 1 breathe with an audible whistling sound. 2 utter with this
sound. —n. 1 sound of wheezing. 2 colloq. Clever scheme. wheezy adj. (-ier, -
iest). Wheezily adv. Wheeziness n. [probably from old norse, = hiss]
Whelp —n. 1 young dog; puppy. 2 archaic cub. 3 ill-mannered child or youth. —
v. (also absol.) Give birth to (a whelp or whelps or (derog.) A child). [old
english]
When —interrog. Adv. 1 at what time? 2 on what occasion? 3 how soon? —rel.
Adv. (prec. By time etc.) At or on which (there are times when i could cry). —
conj. 1 at the or any time that; as soon as (come when you like; come when
ready). 2 although (why stand when you could sit?). 3 after which; and then; but
just then (was nearly asleep when the bell rang). —pron. What time?; which
time (till when can you stay?; since when it has improved). —n. Time, occasion
(fixed the where and when). [old english]
Whence formal —interrog. Adv. From what place? —conj. 1 to the place from
which (return whence you came). 2 (often prec. By place etc.) From which. 3
and thence (whence it follows that). [old english: related to *when]
Usage the use of from whence rather than simply whence (as in the place from
whence they came), though common, is generally considered incorrect.
Whenever conj. & adv. 1 at whatever time; on whatever occasion. 2 every time
Whenever conj. & adv. 1 at whatever time; on whatever occasion. 2 every time
that.
Whereas conj. 1 in contrast or comparison with the fact that. 2 (esp. In legal
preambles) taking into consideration the fact that.
Wherefore —adv. Archaic 1 for what reason? 2 for which reason. —n. See
*why.
Wherry n. (pl. -ies) 1 light rowing-boat usu. For carrying passengers. 2 large
light barge. [origin unknown]
Whet v. (-tt-) 1 sharpen (a tool). 2 stimulate (the appetite or a desire etc.). [old
english]
Whey n. Watery liquid left when milk forms curds. [old english]
Which —interrog. Adj. Asking for choice from a definite set of alternatives
(which john do you mean?; say which book you prefer). —rel. Adj. Being the
one just referred to; and this or these (ten years, during which time they admitted
nothing). —interrog. Pron. 1 which person or persons? (which of you is
responsible?). 2 which thing or things? (say which you prefer). —rel. Pron.
(poss. Of which, whose) 1 which thing or things, usu. Introducing a clause not
essential for identification (the house, which is empty, has been damaged). 2
used in place of that after in or that (there is the house in which i was born; that
which you have just seen). [old english]
Whichever adj. & pron. Any which (take whichever you like).
Whiff n. 1 puff or breath of air, smoke, etc. 2 smell. 3 (foll. By of) trace of
scandal etc. 4 small cigar. [imitative]
While —n. Period of time (a long while ago; waited a while; all this while). —
conj. 1 during the time that; for as long as; at the same time as (while i was
away, the house was burgled; fell asleep while reading). 2 in spite of the fact
that; whereas (while i want to believe it, i cannot). —v. (-ling) (foll. By away)
pass (time etc.) In a leisurely or interesting way. —rel. Adv. (prec. By time etc.)
During which (the summer while i was abroad). between whiles in the intervals.
For a while for some time. In a while soon. The while in the meantime. Worth
while (or worth one’s while) worth the time or effort spent. [old english]
Usage worth while (two words) is used only predicatively, as in thought it worth
while to ring the police, whereas worthwhile is used both predicatively and
attributively.
attributively.
Whimper —v. Make feeble, querulous, or frightened sounds. —n. Such a sound.
[imitative]
Whinny —n. (pl. -ies) gentle or joyful neigh. —v. (-ies, -ied) give a whinny.
[imitative]
Whip —n. 1 lash attached to a stick for urging on animals or punishing etc. 2 a
member of a political party in parliament appointed to control its discipline and
tactics. B whips’ written notice requesting or requiring attendance for voting at a
division etc., variously underlined according to the degree of urgency (three-line
whip). C (prec. By the) party discipline and instructions (asked for the labour
whip). 3 dessert made with whipped cream etc. 4 = *whipper-in. —v. (-pp-) 1
beat or urge on with a whip. 2 beat (cream or eggs etc.) Into a froth. 3 take or
move suddenly, unexpectedly, or rapidly (whipped out a knife; whipped behind
the door). 4 slang steal. 5 slang a excel. B defeat. 6 bind with spirally wound
twine. 7 sew with overcast stitches. whip in bring (hounds) together. Whip on
urge into action. Whip up excite or stir up. [low german or dutch]
Whip hand n. 1 hand that holds the whip (in riding etc.). 2 (usu. Prec. By the)
advantage or control in a situation.
Whiplash injury n. Injury to the neck caused by a jerk of the head, esp. As in a
motor accident.
Whippet n. Crossbred dog of the greyhound type used for racing. [probably from
obsolete whippet move briskly, from whip it]
Whirl —v. 1 swing round and round; revolve rapidly. 2 (foll. By away) convey
or go rapidly in a vehicle etc. 3 send or travel swiftly in an orbit or a curve. 4 (of
the brain etc.) Seem to spin round. —n. 1 whirling movement. 2 state of intense
activity (the social whirl). 3 state of confusion (in a whirl). give it a whirl colloq.
Attempt it. [old norse, and low german or dutch]
Whirr —n. Continuous rapid buzz or soft clicking sound. —v. (-rr-) make this
sound. [scandinavian]
Whisk —v. 1 (foll. By away, off) a brush with a sweeping movement. B take
suddenly. 2 whip (cream, eggs, etc.). 3 convey or go (esp. Out of sight) lightly or
quickly. 4 wave or lightly brandish. —n. 1 whisking action or motion. 2 utensil
for whisking eggs or cream etc. 3 bunch of grass, twigs, bristles, etc., for
removing dust or flies. [scandinavian]
Whisker n. 1 (usu. In pl.) Hair growing on a man’s face, esp. On the cheek. 2
each of the bristles on the face of a cat etc. 3 colloq. Small distance (within a
whisker of). whiskered adj. Whiskery adj. [from *whisk]
Whiskey n. (brit. Whisky) (pl. -eys) spirit distilled esp. From malted grain, esp.
Barley or rye. [abbreviation of usquebaugh from gaelic, = water of life]
Whisky n. (ir. & us whiskey) (pl. -ies or -eys) spirit distilled esp. From malted
grain, esp. Barley or rye. [abbreviation of usquebaugh from gaelic, = water of
life]
Whisper —v. 1 a speak very softly without vibration of the vocal cords. B talk or
say in a barely audible tone or in a secret or confidential way. 2 rustle or
murmur. —n. 1 whispering speech or sound. 2 thing whispered. it is whispered
there is a rumour. [old english]
Whist n. Card-game usu. For two pairs of players. [earlier whisk, perhaps from
*whisk (with ref. To whisking away the tricks): perhaps associated with whist!
(= silence)]
Whistle —n. 1 clear shrill sound made by forcing breath through a small hole
between nearly closed lips. 2 similar sound made by a bird, the wind, a missile,
etc. 3 instrument used to produce such a sound. —v. (-ling) 1 emit a whistle. 2 a
give a signal or express surprise or derision by whistling. B (often foll. By up)
summon or give a signal to (a dog etc.) By whistling. 3 (also absol.) Produce (a
tune) by whistling. 4 (foll. By for) vainly seek or desire. [old english]
Whit n. Particle; least possible amount (not a whit better). [apparently = *wight]
Whitebait n. (pl. Same) (usu. In pl.) Small silvery-white young of herrings and
sprats, esp. As food.
White heat n. 1 temperature at which metal emits white light. 2 state of intense
passion or activity. white-hot adj.
White lead n. Mixture of lead carbonate and hydrated lead oxide used as
pigment.
White tie n. Man’s white bow-tie as part of full evening dress.
White wedding n. Wedding at which the bride wears a formal white wedding
dress.
Whiting1 n. (pl. Same) small white-fleshed fish used as food. [dutch: related to
*white]
Whittle v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. By at) pare (wood etc.) With repeated slicing with
a knife. 2 (often foll. By away, down) reduce by repeated subtractions. [dial.
Thwittle]
Whiz (also whizz) —n. Sound made by a body moving through the air at great
speed. —v. (-zz-) move with or make a whiz. [imitative]
Who pron. (obj. Whom or colloq. Who; poss. Whose) 1 a what or which person
or persons? (who called?; you know who it was). B what sort of person or
persons? (who am i to object?). 2 (a person) that (anyone who wishes can come;
the woman whom you met; the man who you saw). 3 and or but he, they, etc.
(gave it to tom, who sold it to jim). [old english]
Usage in the last two examples of sense 2 whom is correct, but who is common
in less formal contexts.
Whoa int. Used to stop or slow a horse etc. [var. Of *ho]
Whodunit n. (also whodunnit) colloq. Detective story, play, or film. [= who done
(illiterate for did) it?]
Whole —adj. 1 uninjured, unbroken, intact, or undiminished. 2 not less than; all
there is of. 3 (of blood or milk etc.) With no part removed. —n. 1 thing complete
in itself. 2 all there is of a thing. 3 (foll. By of) all members etc. Of (the whole of
london knows it). as a whole as a unity; not as separate parts. On the whole
taking everything relevant into account. Whole lot see *lot. wholeness n. [old
english]
Wholegrain attrib. Adj. Made with or containing whole grains (wholegrain rice).
Wholemeal n. (usu. Attrib.) Meal or flour with none of the bran or germ
Wholemeal n. (usu. Attrib.) Meal or flour with none of the bran or germ
removed.
Wholewheat n. (usu. Attrib.) Wheat with none of the bran or germ removed.
Whoop —n. 1 loud cry of or as of excitement etc. 2 long rasping indrawn breath
in whooping cough. —v. Utter a whoop. whoop it up colloq. 1 engage in revelry.
2 us make a stir. [imitative]
Whoopee int. Expressing exuberant joy. make whoopee colloq. 1 have fun, make
merry. 2 make love. [imitative]
Whore-house n. Brothel.
Whorl n. 1 ring of leaves etc. Round a stem. 2 one turn of a spiral. [apparently
var. Of *whirl]
Who’s who n. 1 who or what each person is (know who’s who). 2 list with facts
about notable persons.
Why —adv. 1 for what reason or purpose (why did you do it?; i do not know
why you came). 2 (prec. By reason etc.) For which (the reasons why i did it). —
int. Expressing: 1 surprised discovery or recognition (why, it’s you!). 2
impatience (why, of course i do!). 3 reflection (why, yes, i think so). 4 objection
(why, what is wrong with it?). whys and wherefores reasons; explanation. [old
english: related to *what]
Wick n. Strip or thread feeding a flame with fuel. get on a person’s wick colloq.
Annoy a person. [old english]
Wicked adj. (-er, -est) 1 sinful, iniquitous, immoral. 2 spiteful. 3 playfully
malicious. 4 colloq. Very bad. 5 slang excellent. wickedly adv. Wickedness n.
[origin uncertain]
Wide —adj. 1 having sides far apart, broad, not narrow (wide river; wide sleeve;
wide angle). 2 (following a measurement) in width (a metre wide). 3 a extending
far (wide range; wide experience). B considerable (wide margin). 4 not restricted
(a wide public). 5 a liberal; unprejudiced (takes wide views). B not specialized;
general. 6 open to the full extent (wide eyes). 7 (foll. By of) not within a
reasonable distance of, far from (wide shot; wide of the target). 8 (in comb.)
Extending over the whole of (nationwide). —adv. 1 widely. 2 to the full extent. 3
far from the target etc. (shooting wide). —n. = *wide ball. give a wide berth to
see berth. Wide of the mark see mark1. Wide open (often foll. By to) exposed (to
attack etc.). The wide world all the world, great as it is. [old english]
Wide ball n. Cricket ball judged to be beyond the batsman’s reach, so scoring a
run.
Widely adv. 1 to a wide extent; far apart. 2 extensively. 3 by many people (it is
widely thought that). 4 considerably; to a large degree (holds a widely different
view).
Widow —n. 1 woman who has lost her husband by death and not married again.
2 woman whose husband is often away on a specified activity (golf widow). —v.
1 make into a widow or widower. 2 (as widowed adj.) Bereft by the death of a
spouse. widowhood n. [old english]
Widower n. Man who has lost his wife by death and not married again.
Widow’s peak n. V-shaped growth of hair towards the centre of the forehead.
Wield v. Hold and use; command, exert (a weapon, tool, power, etc.). [old
english]
Wife n. (pl. Wives) 1 married woman, esp. In relation to her husband. 2 archaic
woman. wifely adj. [old english, = woman]
Wiggle colloq. —v. (-ling) move from side to side etc. —n. Act of wiggling;
kink in a line etc. wiggly adj. (-ier, -iest). [low german or dutch wiggelen]
Wight n. Archaic person. [old english, = thing, creature]
Wild card n. 1 card having any rank chosen by the player holding it. 2
computing character that will match any character or combination of characters.
3 person or thing that can be used in several different ways.
Wilderness n. 1 desert; uncultivated region or garden area. 2 (foll. By of)
confused assemblage. [old english: related to wild, deer]
Wildfire n. Hist. Combustible liquid used in war. spread like wildfire spread
with great speed.
Wile —n. (usu. In pl.) Stratagem, trick. —v. (-ling) (foll. By away, into, etc.)
Lure. [perhaps from scandinavian]
Wilful adj. (us willful) 1 intentional, deliberate (wilful murder; wilful neglect). 2
obstinate. wilfully adv. [from *will2]
Will1 v.aux. (3rd sing. Present will; past would) 1 (strictly only in the 2nd and
3rd persons: see *shall) expressing a future statement, command, etc. (you will
regret this; they will leave at once). 2 expressing the speaker’s intention (i will
return soon). 3 wish or desire (will you have a drink?; come when you will). 4
expressing a request as a question (will you please open the window?). 5 be able
to (the jar will hold a kilo). 6 have a habit or tendency to (accidents will happen;
will sit there for hours). 7 expressing probability or expectation (that will be my
wife). [old english]
Will2 —n. 1 faculty by which a person decides what to do. 2 strong desire or
intention (will to live). 3 determination, will-power (has a strong will). 4 legal
written directions for the disposal of one’s property after death. 5 disposition
towards others (good will). 6 archaic what one desires or ordains. —v. 1 try to
cause by will-power (willed her to win). 2 intend; desire. 3 bequeath by a will. at
will whenever one wishes. With a will energetically or resolutely. [old english]
Willful adj. (brit. Wilful) 1 intentional, deliberate (wilful murder; wilful neglect).
2 obstinate. wilfully adv. [from *will2]
Willow n. Tree with pliant branches yielding osiers and timber for cricket-bats
etc., usu. Growing near water. [old english]
Willy-nilly adv. Whether one likes it or not. [later spelling of will i, nill i i am
willing, i am unwilling]
Wilt —v. 1 wither, droop. 2 lose energy, flag. —n. Plant-disease causing wilting.
[originally dial.]
Wimple n. Headdress also covering the neck and the sides of the face, worn by
some nuns. [old english]
Win —v. (-nn-; past and past part. Won) 1 secure as a result of a fight, contest,
bet, effort, etc. 2 be the victor; be victorious in. —n. Victory in a game etc. win
the day be victorious in battle, argument, etc. Win over persuade, gain the
support of. Win one’s spurs colloq. Gain distinction or fame. Win through (or
out) overcome obstacles. You can’t win colloq. There is no way to succeed or to
please. winnable adj. [old english, = toil]
Wince —n. Start or involuntary shrinking movement of the face, showing pain
or distress. —v. (-cing) give a wince. [germanic: related to *wink]
Wincey n. (pl. -s) lightweight fabric of wool and cotton or linen. [apparently an
alteration of woolsey in *linsey-woolsey]
Winch —n. 1 crank of a wheel or axle. 2 windlass. —v. Lift with a winch. [old
english]
Wind1 —n. 1 air in natural motion, esp. A current of this. 2 a breath, esp. As
needed in exercise or playing a wind instrument. B power of breathing easily. 3
empty talk. 4 gas generated in the bowels etc. 5 wind instruments of an orchestra
etc. 6 scent carried by the wind. —v. 1 cause to be out of breath by exertion or a
blow. 2 make (a baby) bring up wind after feeding. 3 detect the presence of by a
scent.
Wind2 —v. (past and past part. Wound) 1 (often as winding adj.) Go in a spiral,
curved, or crooked course. 2 make (one’s way) thus. 3 wrap closely; coil. 4 a
provide with a coiled thread etc. B surround with or as with a coil. 5 wind up (a
clock etc.). —n. 1 bend or turn in a course. 2 single turn when winding. wind
down 1 lower by winding. 2 unwind. 3 draw gradually to a close. Wind off
unwind. Wind up 1 coil the whole of. 2 tighten the coiling or coiled spring of
(esp. A clock). 3 colloq. A increase the intensity of (feelings etc.), excite. B
provoke (a person) to anger etc. 4 bring to a conclusion; end. 5 a arrange the
affairs of and dissolve (a company). B cease business and go into liquidation. 6
colloq. Arrive finally. [old english]
Windbag n. Colloq. Person who talks a lot but says little of any value.
Wind-cone n. = *wind-sock.
Windlass n. Machine with a horizontal axle for hauling or hoisting. [old norse, =
winding-pole]
Windmill n. 1 mill worked by the wind acting on its sails. 2 toy consisting of a
stick with curved vanes that revolve in a wind. tilt at windmills attack an
imaginary enemy.
Window n. 1 a opening in a wall etc., usu. With glass to admit light etc. B the
glass itself. 2 space for display behind the window of a shop. 3 window-like
opening. 4 opportunity to learn from observation. 5 transparent part in an
envelope showing an address. 6 vdu display showing a particular part of the
data. windowless adj. [old norse, = wind-eye]
Windshield n. Us = *windscreen.
Windward —adj. & adv. On the side from which the wind is blowing. —n.
Windward direction.
Wine bar n. Bar or small restaurant where wine is the main drink available.
Winebibber n. Tippler.
Wine vinegar n. Vinegar made from wine as distinct from malt etc.
Wing —n. 1 each of the limbs or organs by which a bird etc. Is able to fly. 2
winglike structure supporting an aircraft. 3 part of a building etc. Extended in a
certain direction. 4 a forward player at either end of a line in football, hockey,
etc. B side part of a playing-area. 5 (in pl.) Sides of a theatre stage. 6 polarized
section of a political party in terms of its views. 7 flank of a battle array. 8 the
part of a vehicle over a wheel. 9 air-force unit of several squadrons or groups. —
v. 1 travel or traverse on wings. 2 wound in a wing or an arm. 3 equip with
wings. 4 enable to fly; send in flight. on the wing flying, in flight. Take under
one’s wing treat as a protégé. Take wing fly away. winged adj. Winglike adj.
[old norse]
Winger n. 1 (in football etc.) Wing player. 2 (in comb.) Member of a specified
political wing.
Wink —v. 1 (often foll. By at) close and open one eye quickly, esp. As a signal.
2 close and open (one or both eyes) quickly. 3 (of a light etc.) Twinkle; (of an
indicator) flash on and off. —n. 1 act of winking. 2 colloq. Short sleep. in a wink
very quickly. Wink at purposely avoid seeing; pretend not to notice. winker n.
(in sense 3 of v.). [old english]
Winkle —n. Small edible sea snail. —v. (-ling) (foll. By out) extract with
difficulty. [abbreviation of *periwinkle2]
Winner n. 1 person etc. That wins. 2 colloq. Successful or highly promising idea
etc.
Winter —n. 1 coldest and last season of the year. 2 (attrib.) Characteristic of or
fit for winter. —v. (usu. Foll. By at, in) pass the winter. [old english]
fit for winter. —v. (usu. Foll. By at, in) pass the winter. [old english]
Wipe —v. (-ping) 1 clean or dry the surface of by rubbing. 2 rub (a cloth) over a
surface. 3 spread (a liquid etc.) Over a surface by rubbing. 4 (often foll. By
away, off, etc.) A clear or remove by wiping. B erase or eliminate completely.
—n. 1 act of wiping. 2 piece of specially treated material for wiping (antiseptic
wipes). wipe down clean (a wall etc.) By wiping. Wipe the floor with colloq.
Inflict a humiliating defeat on. Wipe off annul (a debt etc.). Wipe out 1 destroy,
annihilate, obliterate. 2 clean the inside of. Wipe up 1 dry (dishes etc.). 2 take up
annihilate, obliterate. 2 clean the inside of. Wipe up 1 dry (dishes etc.). 2 take up
(a liquid etc.) By wiping. [old english]
Wire —n. 1 a metal drawn out into a thread or thin flexible rod. B piece of this.
C (attrib.) Made of wire. 2 length of this for fencing or to carry an electric
current etc. 3 colloq. Telegram. —v. (-ring) 1 provide, fasten, strengthen, etc.,
with wire. 2 (often foll. By up) install electrical circuits in (a building,
equipment, etc.). 3 colloq. Telegraph. get one’s wires crossed become confused
and misunderstood. [old english]
Wiry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 sinewy, untiring. 2 like wire; tough, coarse. wiriness n.
Wise2 n. Archaic way, manner, or degree. in no wise not at all. [old english]
Wish —v. 1 (often foll. By for) have or express a desire or aspiration for (wish
for happiness). 2 have as a desire or aspiration (i wish i could sing). 3 want or
demand (i wish to go; i wish you to do it). 4 express one’s hopes for (wish you
success). 5 (foll. By on, upon) colloq. Foist on. —n. 1 a desire, request. B
expression of this. 2 thing desired. best (or good) wishes hopes felt or expressed
for another’s happiness etc. [old english]
Wishbone n. Forked bone between the neck and breast of a fowl often broken
between two people, the longer portion entitling the holder to make a wish.
Wishing-well n. Well into which coins are dropped and a wish is made.
Wisp n. 1 small bundle or twist of straw etc. 2 small separate quantity of smoke,
hair, etc. 3 small thin person etc. wispy adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin uncertain]
Wisteria n. (also wistaria) climbing plant with blue, purple, or white hanging
flowers. [wistar, name of an anatomist]
Witch n. 1 sorceress, woman supposed to have dealings with the devil or evil
spirits. 2 old hag. 3 fascinating girl or woman. [old english]
Witchery n. = *witchcraft.
Withdraw v. (past withdrew; past part. Withdrawn) 1 pull or take aside or back.
2 discontinue, cancel, retract. 3 remove; take away. 4 take (money) out of an
account. 5 retire or move apart. 6 (as withdrawn adj.) Abnormally shy and
account. 5 retire or move apart. 6 (as withdrawn adj.) Abnormally shy and
unsociable; mentally detached. [from *with = away]
Withe n. (also withy) (pl. Withes or withies) tough flexible shoot, esp. Of
willow, used for binding, basketwork, etc. [old english]
Wither v. 1 (often foll. By up) make or become dry and shrivelled. 2 (often foll.
By away) deprive of or lose vigour or freshness. 3 (esp. As withering adj.) Blight
with scorn etc. witheringly adv. [apparently var. Of *weather]
Withhold v. (past and past part. -held) 1 hold back; restrain. 2 refuse to give,
grant, or allow. [from *with = away]
Withstand v. (past and past part. -stood) oppose, hold out against. [old english:
related to with, stand]
Witty adj. (-ier, -iest) showing esp. Verbal wit. wittily adv. Wittiness n. [old
english: related to *wit]
Wo abbr. Warrant-officer.
Woad n. 1 plant yielding a blue dye. 2 dye from this. [old english]
Wobble —v. (-ling) 1 sway from side to side. 2 stand or go unsteadily; stagger. 3
waver, vacillate. —n. State or instance of wobbling. [cf. Low german wabbeln]
Wobbly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 tending to wobble. 2 wavy (wobbly line). 3 weak after
illness. 4 wavering, insecure (the economy was wobbly). throw a wobbly slang
have a tantrum or fit of nerves.
Woe n. 1 affliction; bitter grief. 2 (in pl.) Calamities. woe betide see *betide.
Woe is me alas. [old english]
Woggle n. Leather etc. Ring through which the ends of a scout’s neckerchief are
passed at the neck. [origin unknown]
Wolf —n. (pl. Wolves) 1 wild animal related to the dog, usu. Hunting in packs. 2
slang man who seduces women. —v. (often foll. By down) devour greedily. cry
wolf raise false alarms. Keep the wolf from the door avert starvation. wolfish
adj. [old english]
Wolfsbane n. Aconite.
Woman n. (pl. Women) 1 adult human female. 2 the female sex. 3 colloq. Wife
or girlfriend. 4 (prec. By the) feminine characteristics (brought out the woman in
him). 5 (attrib.) Female (woman doctor). 6 (in comb.) Woman of a specified
nationality, skill, etc. (englishwoman; horsewoman). 7 colloq. Charwoman. [old
english]
Women’s rights n.pl. Position of legal and social equality with men.
Wonky adj. (-ier, -iest) slang 1 crooked, askew. 2 loose, unsteady. 3 unreliable.
[fanciful]
Woo v. (woos, wooed) 1 court; seek the hand or love of. 2 try to win (fame,
fortune, etc.). 3 seek the favour or support of. 4 coax or importune. wooer n. [old
english]
Woodbine n. Honeysuckle.
Woodman n. Forester.
Woodpigeon n. Dove with white patches like a ring round its neck.
Woodshed n. Shed where wood for fuel is stored. something nasty in the
woodshed colloq. Shocking thing kept secret.
Woodwind n. 1 wind instruments that were (mostly) orig. Made of wood, e.g.
The flute, clarinet, oboe, and saxophone. 2 one such instrument.
Woodwork n. 1 making of things in wood. 2 things made of wood. crawl out of
the woodwork colloq. (of something distasteful) appear.
Wool n. 1 fine soft wavy hair from the fleece of sheep etc. 2 woollen yarn or
cloth or clothing. 3 wool-like substance (steel wool). pull the wool over a
person’s eyes deceive a person. [old english]
Woolen (brit. Woollen) —adj. Made wholly or partly of wool. —n. 1 woollen
fabric. 2 (in pl.) Woollen garments. [old english]
fabric. 2 (in pl.) Woollen garments. [old english]
Wool-gathering n. Absent-mindedness.
Woollen (us woolen) —adj. Made wholly or partly of wool. —n. 1 woollen
fabric. 2 (in pl.) Woollen garments. [old english]
Woolly —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 bearing wool. 2 like wool. 3 woollen (a woolly
cardigan). 4 (of a sound) indistinct. 5 (of thought) vague or confused. —n. (pl. -
ies) colloq. Woollen garment, esp. A pullover. woolliness n.
Woozy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 dizzy or unsteady. 2 slightly drunk. woozily
adv. Wooziness n. [origin unknown]
Word —n. 1 meaningful element of speech, usu. Shown with a space on either
side of it when written or printed. 2 speech, esp. As distinct from action. 3 one’s
promise or assurance. 4 (in sing. Or pl.) Thing said, remark, conversation. 5 (in
pl.) Text of a song or an actor’s part. 6 (in pl.) Angry talk (have words). 7 news,
message (send word). 8 command (gave the word to begin). —v. Put into words;
select words to express. in other words expressing the same thing differently. In
so many words in those very words; explicitly. In a (or one) word briefly. My (or
upon my) word exclamation of surprise etc. Take a person at his or her word
interpret a person’s words literally. Take a person’s word for it believe a
person’s statement without investigation etc. The word (or word of god) the
bible. Word for word in exactly the same or (of translation) corresponding
words. wordless adj. [old english]
Word-blindness n. = *dyslexia.
Wordy adj. (-ier, -iest) using or expressed in too many words. wordily adv.
Wordy adj. (-ier, -iest) using or expressed in too many words. wordily adv.
Wordiness n.
Workable adj. That can be worked, will work, or is worth working. workability
n.
Workbox n. Box for tools, needlework, etc.
Worker n. 1 person who works, esp. For an employer. 2 neuter bee or ant. 3
person who works hard.
Working class n. Social class employed, esp. In manual or industrial work, for
wages. working-class adj.
wages. working-class adj.
Workstation n. 1 location of a stage in a manufacturing process. 2 computer
terminal or the desk etc. Where this is located.
World n. 1 a the earth, or a planetary body like it. B its countries and people. 2
the universe, all that exists. 3 a the time, state, or scene of human existence. B
(prec. By the, this) mortal life. 4 secular interests and affairs. 5 human affairs;
active life. 6 average, respectable, or fashionable people or their customs or
opinions. 7 all that concerns or all who belong to a specified class or sphere of
activity (the world of sport). 8 (foll. By of) vast amount. 9 (attrib.) Affecting
many nations, of all nations (world politics; world champion). bring (or come)
into the world give birth (or be born). For all the world (foll. By like, as if)
precisely. In the world of all; at all (what in the world is it?). Man (or woman) of
the world person experienced and practical in human affairs. Out of this world
colloq. Extremely good etc. Think the world of have a very high regard for. [old
english]
World-class adj. Of a quality or standard regarded as high throughout the world.
Worldly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of the affairs of the world, temporal, earthly (worldly
goods). 2 experienced in life, sophisticated, practical. worldliness n.
World music n. Pop music that incorporates local or ethnic elements (esp. From
the developing world).
Worm —n. 1 any of various types of creeping invertebrate animals with long
slender bodies and no limbs. 2 larva of an insect, esp. In fruit or wood. 3 (in pl.)
Intestinal parasites. 4 insignificant or contemptible person. 5 spiral part of a
screw. —v. 1 (often refl.) Move with a crawling motion. 2 refl. (foll. By into)
insinuate oneself into favour etc. 3 (foll. By out) obtain (a secret etc.) By
cunning persistence. 4 rid (a dog etc.) Of worms. [old english]
Worn past part. Of *wear. —adj. 1 damaged by use or wear. 2 looking tired and
exhausted.
Worry —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 give way to anxiety. 2 harass, importune; be a trouble
or anxiety to. 3 (of a dog etc.) Shake or pull about with the teeth. 4 (as worried
or anxiety to. 3 (of a dog etc.) Shake or pull about with the teeth. 4 (as worried
adj.) Uneasy. —n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing that causes anxiety or disturbs tranquility. 2
disturbed state of mind; anxiety. worrier n. [old english, = strangle]
Worry beads n.pl. String of beads manipulated with the fingers to occupy or
calm oneself.
Worse —adj. 1 more bad. 2 (predic.) In or into worse health or a worse condition
(is getting worse). —adv. More badly; more ill. —n. 1 worse thing or things
(you might do worse than accept). 2 (prec. By the) worse condition (a change for
the worse). none the worse (often foll. By for) not adversely affected (by). The
worse for wear 1 damaged by use. 2 injured. Worse luck unfortunately. Worse
off in a worse (esp. Financial) position. [old english]
Worst —adj. Most bad. —adv. Most badly. —n. Worst part or possibility
(prepare for the worst). —v. Get the better of; defeat. at its etc. Worst in the
worst state. At worst (or the worst) in the worst possible case. Do your worst
expression of defiance. Get the worst of it be defeated. If the worst comes to the
worst if the worst happens. [old english: related to *worse]
Worsted n. 1 fine woollen yarn. 2 fabric made from this. [worste(a)d in norfolk]
Worthy —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 deserving respect, estimable (lived a worthy life). 2
entitled to (esp. Condescending) recognition (a worthy old couple). 3 a (foll. By
of or to + infin.) Deserving (worthy of a mention). B (foll. By of) adequate or
suitable to the dignity etc. Of (words worthy of the occasion). —n. (pl. -ies) 1
worthy person. 2 person of some distinction. worthily adv. Worthiness n.
Would v.aux. (3rd sing. Would) past of *will1, used esp.: 1 in reported speech
(he said he would be home by evening). 2 to express a condition (they would
have been killed if they had gone). 3 to express habitual action (would wait
every evening). 4 to express a question or polite request (would they like it?;
would you come in, please?). 5 to express probability (she would be over fifty by
now). 6 to express consent (they would not help).
Wound1 —n. 1 injury done to living tissue by a deep cut or heavy blow etc. 2
pain inflicted on one’s feelings; injury to one’s reputation. —v. Inflict a wound
on. [old english]
Wrangle —n. Noisy argument or dispute. —v. (-ling) engage in a wrangle. [low
german or dutch]
Wrap —v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. By up) envelop in folded or soft encircling
material. 2 (foll. By round, about) arrange or draw (a pliant covering) round (a
person). 3 (foll. By round) slang crash (a vehicle) into (a stationary object). —n.
1 shawl, scarf, etc. 2 esp. Us wrapping material. take the wraps off disclose.
Under wraps in secrecy. Wrapped up in engrossed or absorbed in. Wrap up 1
colloq. Finish off (a matter). 2 put on warm clothes (wrap up well). 3 (in imper.)
Slang be quiet. [origin unknown]
Wrap-over —attrib. Adj. (of a garment) overlapping when worn. —n. Such a
garment.
Wrapper n. 1 cover for a sweet, book, posted newspaper, etc. 2 loose enveloping
robe or gown.
Wreak v. 1 (usu. Foll. By upon) give play to (vengeance or one’s anger etc.). 2
cause (damage etc.) (wreak havoc). [old english, = avenge]
Wreath n. (pl. -s) 1 flowers or leaves fastened in a ring, esp. As an ornament for
the head or for laying on a grave etc. 2 curl or ring of smoke, cloud, or soft
fabric. [old english: related to *writhe]
Wreck —n. 1 the sinking or running aground of a ship. 2 ship that has suffered a
wreck. 3 greatly damaged building, thing, or person. 4 (foll. By of) wretched
remnant. —v. 1 a seriously damage (a vehicle etc.). B ruin (hopes, a life, etc.). 2
cause the wreck of (a ship). [anglo-french wrec from germanic]
Wren n. Member of the women’s royal naval service. [from the abbreviation
wrns]
Wren n. Small usu. Brown short-winged songbird with an erect tail. [old english]
Wrench —n. 1 violent twist or oblique pull or tearing off. 2 tool like a spanner
for gripping and turning nuts etc. 3 painful uprooting or parting. —v. 1 twist or
pull violently round or sideways. 2 (often foll. By off, away, etc.) Pull off with a
wrench. [old english]
Wrest v. 1 wrench away from a person’s grasp. 2 (foll. By from) obtain by effort
or with difficulty. [old english]
Wrestle —n. 1 contest in which two opponents grapple and try to throw each
other to the ground, esp. As an athletic sport. 2 hard struggle. —v. (-ling) 1
(often foll. By with) take part or fight in a wrestle. 2 a (foll. By with, against)
struggle. B (foll. By with) do one’s utmost to deal with (a task, difficulty, etc.).
wrestler n. Wrestling n. [old english]
Wriggle —v. (-ling) 1 (of a worm etc.) Twist or turn its body with short writhing
movements. 2 make wriggling motions. 3 (foll. By along, through, etc.) Go thus
(wriggled through the gap). 4 be evasive. —n. Act of wriggling. wriggle out of
colloq. Avoid on a pretext. wriggly adj. [low german wriggelen]
Wring —v. (past and past part. Wrung) 1 a squeeze tightly. B (often foll. By out)
squeeze and twist, esp. To remove liquid. 2 break by twisting. 3 distress, torture.
4 extract by squeezing. 5 (foll. By out, from) obtain by pressure or importunity;
extort. —n. Act of wringing. wring one’s hands clasp them as a gesture of
distress. Wring the neck of kill (a chicken etc.) By twisting its neck. [old
english]
Wringing adj. (in full wringing wet) so wet that water can be wrung out.
Wrinkle —n. 1 crease in the skin, esp. Caused by age. 2 similar mark in another
flexible surface. 3 colloq. Useful tip or clever expedient. —v. (-ling) 1 make
flexible surface. 3 colloq. Useful tip or clever expedient. —v. (-ling) 1 make
wrinkles in. 2 form wrinkles. [probably related to old english gewrinclod
sinuous]
Wrinkly —adj. (-ier, -iest) having wrinkles. —n. Slang offens. Old or middle-
aged person.
Wrist n. 1 joint connecting the hand with the arm. 2 part of a garment covering
this. [old english]
Writ1 n. Form of written command to act or not act in some way. [old english:
related to *write]
Writ2 archaic past part. Of *write. writ large in magnified or emphasized form.
C v. (-ting; past wrote; past part. Written) 1 mark paper or some other surface
with symbols, letters, or words. 2 form or mark (such symbols etc.).
Wren n. Member of the women’s royal naval service. [from the abbreviation
wrns]
Wren n. Small usu. Brown short-winged songbird with an erect tail. [old english]
Wrench —n. 1 violent twist or oblique pull or tearing off. 2 tool like a spanner
for gripping and turning nuts etc. 3 painful uprooting or parting. —v. 1 twist or
pull violently round or sideways. 2 (often foll. By off, away, etc.) Pull off with a
wrench. [old english]
Wrest v. 1 wrench away from a person’s grasp. 2 (foll. By from) obtain by effort
or with difficulty. [old english]
Wrestle —n. 1 contest in which two opponents grapple and try to throw each
other to the ground, esp. As an athletic sport. 2 hard struggle. —v. (-ling) 1
(often foll. By with) take part or fight in a wrestle. 2 a (foll. By with, against)
struggle. B (foll. By with) do one’s utmost to deal with (a task, difficulty, etc.).
wrestler n. Wrestling n. [old english]
Wriggle —v. (-ling) 1 (of a worm etc.) Twist or turn its body with short writhing
movements. 2 make wriggling motions. 3 (foll. By along, through, etc.) Go thus
(wriggled through the gap). 4 be evasive. —n. Act of wriggling. wriggle out of
colloq. Avoid on a pretext. wriggly adj. [low german wriggelen]
Wring —v. (past and past part. Wrung) 1 a squeeze tightly. B (often foll. By out)
squeeze and twist, esp. To remove liquid. 2 break by twisting. 3 distress, torture.
4 extract by squeezing. 5 (foll. By out, from) obtain by pressure or importunity;
extort. —n. Act of wringing. wring one’s hands clasp them as a gesture of
distress. Wring the neck of kill (a chicken etc.) By twisting its neck. [old
english]
Wringing adj. (in full wringing wet) so wet that water can be wrung out.
Wrinkle —n. 1 crease in the skin, esp. Caused by age. 2 similar mark in another
flexible surface. 3 colloq. Useful tip or clever expedient. —v. (-ling) 1 make
wrinkles in. 2 form wrinkles. [probably related to old english gewrinclod
sinuous]
Wrinkly —adj. (-ier, -iest) having wrinkles. —n. Slang offens. Old or middle-
aged person.
Wrist n. 1 joint connecting the hand with the arm. 2 part of a garment covering
this. [old english]
Writ1 n. Form of written command to act or not act in some way. [old english:
related to *write]
Writ2 archaic past part. Of *write. writ large in magnified or emphasized form.
Write v. (-ting; past wrote; past part. Written) 1 mark paper or some other
surface with symbols, letters, or words. 2 form or mark (such symbols etc.). 3
form or mark the symbols of (a word or sentence, or document etc.). 4 fill or
complete (a sheet, cheque, etc.) With writing. 5 transfer (data) into a computer
store. 6 (esp.
Write-off n. Thing written off, esp. A vehicle too badly damaged to be repaired.
Writer n. 1 person who writes or has written something. 2 person who writes
books, author.
Writing-desk n. Desk for writing at, esp. With compartments for papers etc.
Wrong —adj. 1 mistaken; not true; in error. 2 unsuitable; less or least desirable
(the wrong road; a wrong decision). 3 contrary to law or morality (it is wrong to
steal). 4 amiss; out of order, in a bad or abnormal condition (something wrong
with my heart; has gone wrong). —adv. (usually placed last) in a wrong manner
or direction; with an incorrect result (guessed wrong). —n. 1 what is morally
wrong. 2 unjust action (suffer a wrong). —v. 1 treat unjustly. 2 mistakenly
attribute bad motives to. do wrong sin. Do wrong to malign or mistreat (a
person). Get wrong 1 misunderstand (a person etc.). 2 obtain an incorrect answer
to. Get (or get hold of) the wrong end of the stick misunderstand completely. Go
wrong 1 take the wrong path. 2 stop functioning properly. 3 depart from virtuous
behaviour. In the wrong responsible for a quarrel, mistake, or offence. On the
wrong side of 1 out of favour with (a person). 2 somewhat more than (a stated
age). Wrong side out inside out. Wrong way round in the opposite or reverse of
the normal or desirable orientation or sequence etc. wrongly adv. Wrongness n.
[old english]
Wrong-foot v. Colloq. 1 (in tennis, football, etc.) Catch (an opponent) off
balance. 2 disconcert; catch unprepared.
Wrought archaic past and past part. Of *work. —adj. (of metals) beaten out or
shaped by hammering.
Wrought iron n. Tough malleable form of iron suitable for forging or rolling, not
cast.
Wry adj. (wryer, wryest or wrier, wriest) 1 distorted or turned to one side. 2 (of a
face, smile, etc.) Contorted in disgust, disappointment, or mockery. 3 (of
humour) dry and mocking. wryly adv. Wryness n. [old english]
Wryneck n. Small woodpecker able to turn its head over its shoulder.
Wt abbr. Weight.
Usage this symbol was superseded in the uk in 1983 by 18, but it is still used in
the us.
Xe symb. Xenon.
Xerox —n. Propr. 1 machine for copying by xerography. 2 copy thus made. —v.
(xerox) reproduce by this process.
Xmas n. Colloq. = *christmas. [abbreviation, with x for the initial chi of greek
khristos christ]
X-ray —n. 1 (in pl.) Electromagnetic radiation of short wavelength, able to pass
through opaque bodies. 2 photograph made by x-rays, esp. Showing the position
of bones etc. By their greater absorption of the rays. —v. Photograph, examine,
or treat with x-rays. [x, originally with ref. To the unknown nature of the rays]
Y2 symb. Yttrium.
-y1 suffix forming adjectives: 1 from nouns and adjectives, meaning: a full of;
having the quality of (messy). B addicted to (boozy). 2 from verbs, meaning
‘inclined to’, ‘apt to’ (sticky). [old english]
-y2 suffix (also -ey, -ie) forming diminutive nouns, pet names, etc. (granny;
sally; nightie). [originally scottish]
-y3 suffix forming nouns denoting state, condition, or quality (orthodoxy). [latin
-ia, greek -eia]
Yacht —n. 1 light sailing-vessel. 2 larger usu. Power-driven vessel for cruising.
—v. Race or cruise in a yacht. [dutch jaghtschip, literally ‘pursuit-ship’]
Yack slang —n. Trivial or unduly persistent conversation. —v. Engage in this.
[imitative]
Yale lock n. Propr. Type of lock with a revolving barrel, used for doors etc.
[yale, name of its inventor]
Yammer colloq. Or dial. —n. 1 lament, wail, grumble. 2 voluble talk. —v. Utter
a yammer. [old english]
Yang n. (in chinese philosophy) the active male principle of the universe (cf.
*yin).
Yap —v. (-pp-) 1 bark shrilly or fussily. 2 colloq. Talk noisily, foolishly, or
complainingly. —n. Sound of yapping. yappy adj. (-ier, -iest) in sense 1 of v.
[imitative]
Yard1 n. 1 unit of linear measure (3 ft., 0.9144 metre). 2 this length of material.
3 square or cubic yard. 4 spar slung across a mast for a sail to hang from. 5 (in
pl.; foll. By of) colloq. A great length. [old english, = stick]
Yarn —n. 1 spun thread, esp. For knitting, weaving, etc. 2 colloq. Story,
traveller’s tale, anecdote. —v. Colloq. Tell yarns. [old english]
Yashmak n. Veil concealing the face except the eyes, worn by some muslim
women. [arabic]
Yaw —v. (of a ship or aircraft etc.) Fail to hold a straight course; go unsteadily.
—n. Yawing of a ship etc. From its course. [origin unknown]
Yawn —v. 1 open the mouth wide and inhale, esp. When sleepy or bored. 2
gape, be wide open. —n. 1 act of yawning. 2 colloq. Boring idea, activity, etc.
[old english]
Yaws n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Contagious tropical skin-disease with large red
Yaws n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) Contagious tropical skin-disease with large red
swellings. [origin unknown]
Yb symb. Ytterbium.
Ye2 adj. Pseudo-archaic = *the (ye olde tea-shoppe). [from the obsolete y-
shaped letter for th]
Yea archaic —adv. 1 yes. 2 indeed (ready, yea eager). —n. Utterance of ‘yea’;
‘yes’ vote. [old english]
Year n. 1 time occupied by the earth in one revolution round the sun, approx.
3651/4 days. 2 = *calendar year. 3 period of twelve months, starting at any point
(four years ago; tax year). 4 (in pl.) Age, time of life (young for his years). 5
(usu. In pl.) Colloq. Very long time. 6 group of students entering college etc. In
the same academic year. [old english]
Yeast n. Greyish-yellow fungus obtained esp. From fermenting malt liquors and
used as a fermenting agent, to raise bread, etc. [old english]
Yeasty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, or tasting of yeast; frothy. 2 in a ferment. 3
working like yeast. 4 (of talk etc.) Light and superficial.
Yell —n. Loud sharp cry; shout. —v. Cry, shout. [old english]
Yellowhammer n. Bunting of which the male has a yellow head, neck, and
breast.
Yellow pages n.pl. Propr. Telephone directory on yellow paper, listing and
classifying business subscribers.
Yelp —n. Sharp shrill cry as of a dog in pain or excitement. —v. Utter a yelp.
[old english]
Yen1 n. (pl. Same) chief monetary unit of japan. [japanese from chinese]
Yen1 n. (pl. Same) chief monetary unit of japan. [japanese from chinese]
Yen2 colloq. —n. Longing or yearning. —v. (-nn-) feel a longing. [chinese]
Yeoman n. 1 esp. Hist. Man holding and cultivating a small landed estate. 2
member of the yeomanry force. yeomanly adj. [from earlier yoman, yeman, etc.,
probably = young man]
Yeomanry n. (pl. -ies) 1 body or class of yeomen. 2 hist. Volunteer cavalry force
raised from the yeoman class.
Yes —adv. 1 indicating that the answer to the question is affirmative, the
statement etc. Made is correct, the request or command will be complied with, or
the person summoned or addressed is present. 2 (yes?) A indeed? Is that so? B
what do you want? —n. 1 utterance of the word yes. 2 affirmation or assent. 3
‘yes’ vote. say yes grant a request, confirm a statement. [old english, = yea let it
be]
Yesterday —adv. 1 on the day before today. 2 in the recent past. —n. 1 the day
before today. 2 the recent past. [old english]
Yesteryear n. Archaic or rhet. 1 last year. 2 the recent past. [old english yester-
that is last past, *year]
Yet —adv. 1 as late as, or until, now or then (there is yet time; your best work
yet). 2 (with neg. Or interrog.) So soon as, or by, now or then (it is not time yet;
have you finished yet?). 3 again; in addition (more and yet more). 4 in the
remaining time available (i will do it yet). 5 (foll. By compar.) Even (a yet more
difficult task). 6 nevertheless; and or but in spite of that. —conj. But at the same
time; but nevertheless. [old english]
Yew n. 1 dark-leaved evergreen tree bearing berry-like cones. 2 its wood. [old
english]
Y-fronts n. Propr. Men’s or boys’ briefs with a y-shaped seam at the front.
Yiddish —n. Language used by jews in or from europe, orig. A german dialect
with words from hebrew etc. —adj. Of this language. [german jüdisch jewish]
Yield —v. 1 produce or return as a fruit, profit, or result. 2 give up; surrender,
concede. 3 a (often foll. By to) surrender; submit; defer to. B (as yielding adj.)
Compliant; submissive; soft and pliable. 4 (foll. By to) give right of way to
(other traffic). 5 (foll.
Yin n. (in chinese philosophy) the passive female principle of the universe (cf.
*yang).
Yob n. Slang lout, hooligan. yobbish adj. [back slang for *boy]
Yodel —v. (-ll-; us -l-) sing with melodious inarticulate sounds and frequent
changes between falsetto and normal voice in the manner of swiss mountain-
dwellers. —n. Yodelling cry. yodeller n. [german]
Yoghurt n. (also yogurt) semisolid sourish food made from milk fermented by
added bacteria. [turkish]
Yoicks int. Cry used by fox-hunters to urge on the hounds. [origin unknown]
Yoke —n. 1 wooden crosspiece fastened over the necks of two oxen etc. And
attached to the plough or wagon to be pulled. 2 (pl. Same or -s) pair (of oxen
etc.). 3 object like a yoke in form or function, e.g. A wooden shoulder-piece for
carrying a pair of pails, the top section of a garment from which the rest hangs. 4
sway, dominion, or servitude. 5 bond of union, esp. Of marriage. —v. (-king) 1
put a yoke on. 2 couple or unite (a pair). 3 (foll. By to) link (one thing) to
(another). 4 match or work together. [old english]
Yom kippur n. Most solemn religious fast day of the jewish year, day of
atonement. [hebrew]
Yon adj. & adv. Literary & dial. Yonder. [old english]
Yonder —adv. Over there; at some distance in that direction; in the place
indicated. —adj. Situated yonder.
Yorker n. Cricket ball that pitches immediately under the bat. [probably with ref.
To the practice of yorkshire cricketers]
Yorkist —n. Hist. Follower of the house of york, esp. In the wars of the roses. —
adj. Of the house of york.
You pron. (obj. You; poss. Your, yours) 1 the person or persons addressed. 2 (as
int. With a noun) in an exclamatory statement (you fools!). 3 (in general
statements) one, a person, people (you get used to it). you and yours you and
your family, property, etc. [old english, originally objective case of *ye1]
Your poss. Pron. 1 of or belonging to you. 2 colloq. Often derog. Much talked
of; well known (your typical professor). [old english]
Yours poss. Pron. 1 the one or ones belonging to you (it is yours; yours are over
there). 2 your letter (yours of the 10th). 3 introducing a formula ending a letter
(yours ever; yours truly). of yours of or belonging to you (friend of yours).
Yourself pron. (pl. Yourselves) 1 a emphat. Form of *you. B refl. Form of you. 2
in your normal state of body or mind (are quite yourself again). be yourself see
oneself.
Youth n. (pl. -s) 1 being young; period between childhood and adult age. 2
vigour, enthusiasm, inexperience, or other characteristic of this period. 3 young
man. 4 (as pl.) Young people collectively (the youth of the country). [old
english: related to *young]
Youthful adj. Young or still having the characteristics of youth. youthfully adv.
Youthfulness n.
Yowl —n. Loud wailing cry of or as of a cat or dog in distress. —v. Utter a
yowl. [imitative]
Yo-yo n. (pl. Yo-yos) 1 toy consisting of a pair of discs with a deep groove
between them in which string is attached and wound, and which can be made to
fall and rise. 2 thing that repeatedly falls and rises. [origin unknown]
Yucky adj. (also yukky) (-ier, -iest) slang 1 messy, repellent. 2 sickly,
sentimental.
Yule n. (in full yule-tide) archaic the christmas festival. [old english]
Yum-yum int. Expressing pleasure from eating or the prospect of eating. [natural
exclamation]
Yuppie n. (also yuppy) (pl. -ies) (often attrib.) Colloq., usu. Derog. Young
ambitious professional person working in a city. [from young urban
professional]
Zabaglione n. Italian dessert of whipped and heated egg-yolks, sugar, and wine.
[italian]
Zany adj. (-ier, -iest) comically idiotic; crazily ridiculous. [french or italian]
Zap slang —v. (-pp-) 1 a kill or destroy; attack. B hit hard (zapped the ball over
the net). 2 move quickly. 3 overwhelm emotionally. —int. Expressing the sound
or impact of a bullet, ray gun, etc., or any sudden event. [imitative]
Zebra n. (pl. Same or -s) black-and-white striped african animal of the family
including the ass and horse. [italian or portuguese from congolese]
Zend-avesta n. Zoroastrian sacred writings of the avesta (or text) and zend (or
commentary).
Zenith n. 1 point of the heavens directly above an observer. 2 highest point (of
power or prosperity etc.). [latin from arabic]
power or prosperity etc.). [latin from arabic]
Zeppelin n. Large dirigible german airship of the early 20th c. [count f. Von
zeppelin, name of an airman]
Zero n. (pl. -s) 1 figure 0; nought; nil. 2 point on the scale of a thermometer etc.
From which a positive or negative quantity is reckoned. 3 (attrib.) No, not any
(zero growth). 4 (in full zero-hour) a hour at which a planned, esp. Military,
operation is timed to begin. B crucial moment. 5 lowest or earliest point (down
to zero; the year zero). zero in on (-oes, -oed) 1 take aim at. 2 focus one’s
attention on. [arabic: related to *cipher]
Zero option n. Disarmament proposal for the total removal of certain types of
weapons on both sides.
Zeugma n. Figure of speech using a verb or adjective with two nouns, to one of
Zeugma n. Figure of speech using a verb or adjective with two nouns, to one of
which it is strictly applicable while the word appropriate to the other is not used
(e.g. With weeping eyes and [sc. Grieving] hearts) (cf. *syllepsis). [greek, = a
yoking, from zugon yoke]
Zigzag —adj. With abrupt alternate right and left turns (zigzag line). —n. Zigzag
line; thing having the form of a zigzag or having sharp turns. —adv. With a
zigzag course. —v. (-gg-) move in a zigzag course. [french from german]
Zing colloq. —n. Vigour, energy. —v. Move swiftly, esp. With a high-pitched
ringing sound. [imitative]
Zinnia n. Garden plant with showy flowers. [zinn, name of a physician and
botanist]
botanist]
Zion n. 1 ancient jerusalem; its holy hill. 2 a the jewish people or religion. B the
christian church. 3 the kingdom of heaven. [hebrew siyôn]
Zip —n. 1 light fast sound. 2 energy, vigour. 3 a (in full zip-fastener) fastening
device of two flexible strips with interlocking projections, closed or opened by
sliding a clip along them. B (attrib.) Having a zip-fastener (zip bag). —v. (-pp-)
1 (often foll. By up) fasten with a zip-fastener. 2 move with zip or at high speed.
[imitative]
Zircon n. Zirconium silicate of which some translucent varieties are cut into
gems. [german zirkon]
Zit n. Esp. Us slang pimple. [origin unknown]
Zn symb. Zinc.
Zodiac n. 1 belt of the heavens including all apparent positions of the sun, moon,
and planets as known to ancient astronomers, and divided into twelve equal parts
(signs of the zodiac). 2 diagram of these signs. zodiacal adj. [greek zoion animal]
Zone —n. 1 area having particular features, properties, purpose, or use (danger
zone; smokeless zone). 2 well-defined region of more or less beltlike form. 3
area between two concentric circles. 4 encircling band of colour etc. 5 archaic
belt, girdle. —v. (-ning) 1 encircle as or with a zone. 2 arrange or distribute by
zones. 3 assign as or to a particular area. zonal adj. [greek zone girdle]
Zonked adj. Slang (often foll. By out) exhausted; intoxicated. [zonk hit]
Zoological garden n. (also zoological gardens n.pl.) Public garden or park with a
collection of animals for exhibition and study.
Usage the second pronunciation given for zoology, zoological, and zoologist,
with the first syllable pronounced as in zoo, although extremely common, is
considered incorrect by some people.
Zoom —v. 1 move quickly, esp. With a buzzing sound. 2 cause an aeroplane to
mount at high speed and a steep angle. 3 (often foll. By in or in on) (of a camera)
change rapidly from a long shot to a close-up (of). 4 (of prices etc.) Rise sharply.
—n. 1 aeroplane’s steep climb. 2 zooming camera shot. [imitative]
Zoom lens n. Lens allowing a camera to zoom by varying the focal length.
Zoophyte n. Plantlike animal, esp. A coral, sea anemone, or sponge. [greek zoion
animal, phuton plant]
animal, phuton plant]
Zr symb. Zirconium.
Zucchini n. (pl. Same or -s) esp. Us & austral. Courgette. [italian, pl. Of
zucchino, diminutive of zucca gourd]
Zulu —n. (pl. -s) 1 member of a s. African bantu people. 2 their language. —adj.
Of this people or language. [native name]
Zygote n. Biol. Cell formed by the union of two gametes. [greek zugotos yoked:
related to *zeugma]