~

~
~
-~

~
-~ A
~ a·ban·don·ment (~·ban'dan·mant) n.
I The act of deserting or giving up a person,
wrongdoing: to «lid the kidnapers was a serious

offensG.-a·bet'ior, a.bel'menl, a·bel'laln.

thing, or principle; the abandonment of a b'lby Syn. help, promote, encourage,

~ on Ihe church steps. 2 :I:'reedom from reBtraint Ant. hinder, "lop, preVt'nL

or ~elf-control: At the cumivul, the usually a·bey·ance (d·ba'Jllti) 11.

~ quiet people celebrated with abandonment.
8yn. I desertion, leaving. 2 unrestraint.
A holding up or pulling aside for future
action: He is holding his decision in aveyance
Allt. I care, protection, concern. 2 propriety, until he /ws 1111 the facts.
-!!I!!J constraint.
a·base (a·bll~') v. a·based, a·bas·jug
ab·hor (ah·hor') v. all·horred. ail·hor·rinl!

.......
To lower in position, rank, or esUmation;
Their cowardice under fire abased the soldiers.
8yn. humble, demean, degrade.

To feel mpugnallce or loathing fur; hat.e:

l\luny people abllor spi(lers.~~ab·llOr'rence,

ab-hor'rer n.; aL·hor'rellt adi.

8yn. detest, abominate, loathe.

~ Ant. exalt, honor.

Ant. love. like, admire, enjoy.

a·bash (a-bash') v.
ab,ject (ah'jckl or ab·jekt') (((tj.
~ To shame or embarrass: lie was uuas/wd (d his

brolher's rudeness.

I Sunk to a low cOlldilioll; despicahle: an

abject cuward. 2 Hopelessly low; wretched;
8yn. disconcert, faze.
abject poverty.
~ Ant. encourage, embolden.
Syn. 1 contemptible, dc;{raded, shameful.

a·bate (a-bat') v. a.bat·ed. a·bal·lng

2 miberaLle, squalid.

~ To reduce in value, force, or intensity: The

next morning the storm abated.

Ani. 1 dignified, noLle. ;;\ comfortable, pros­

perous.

8yn. decrease, lessen, subside.

ab·lu·tion (o·LliJO'shun) It.
~ Allt. increase, intensify.
A washiug Of cleansing of tile body ur purl of
abo bre·vi,ate (a-bre'vtHil) v. ab·bre·vi·at-ed.
the body, cSIJecially in a religiuus ceremony:
~ ab·bre·vi.al.ing

I To shorten a word or expression by leaving

10 perfom, one's mornillg ablutiuns; lJTicstly

aulutions before the al/ar.

out part of it; ".Mister" is abbrel'iated "11fr,"

Usage; A.bl1dion is usually in the plural. The

~ 2 To make shorter: to abbreviate the visit.

word tends to SOUIlU high-flown and literary,

8yn. I reuucc, curt"il, ahriuge.

but lnUllY people USe it htunoi'ou;sly a;; a

~ Ant. 2 increase. enlarge, extend.

ab·bre· vi·a·lion (a·bre've.a'shan) n.

synonym for washiny or vilil/iuf}.

a·born·j·na!e (,,-bom'a·nat) v. ,,·bond-nal-cd.

I A shortened form of a word or phrase, used
a.bom.i.nal.ing
~ to rcpfCHI!nt the full form: "N..I." is th"
To di:diiu~ HLrong)y; loatil\': to afw/llilialc dirl
uhd uttlidt"w'SI.L ,,·uutn'i,nu'liou. 1l.
abbreviation for "New Jersey." 2 The ad of

Syn. hute. abhor, detest.

~ making briefer: an abbreviation of a long

speech.
AnI. like, admire.
Usage: "U.S.A." is an abbreviatioH, but
abo o· rig·i· nes (ab',)·rij'u'llez) 1i.J!1.
~ "NATO" is an acronym. An acronym is an

abbrcviaLion that may IJC pronounced a" a

The origiual and earliest jJeople, plants, (}r

animals of u country ur af\:a: The; .!\laOl is ure
word rather than as a series of letters. See
the aburigilWd of New Zenlalld.
~ ACRONYM.
SYI!. native.
8yn. 2 abridgement, reduction.
Ant. emigrant, outsider, alien.
~ Ant. 2 extension, enlargement.
a·bor.live (a-bOr'tiv) adj.
ab.di,eate (ab'da·kat) v. aL-di.cat·ed. ab-di·
I Resulting in llothing; failing: an abortive
eal·jng
revvl!. 2 Dorn Loo pWlllalHr"ly to Le able to
~ '1'0 give up rights, as to a throne, \lOwer. ur
live: an ulwr!ive fd1<s.~ a-Lor'live·lya<iv.
high position: The king was forced to abdi­
8yn. I unsuccessful, futile. 2 miscarried.
~ ca!e.-ab'dl·ca'iion n.
Ant. I successful, fruitful, victorious. 2 full­

-...
8yn. resign, renounce.

Allt. seize, u~urp, retain.

ab·do.men (ab'da.man or ab·do'man) n.

I In man and in animals with backbones, the
~ part of the body between the chest and the
pelvis, containing the di~estive tract. 2 In
Insects, the hindmost diVision of the bodY.
Usage: ilbdomen is Ii more scientific and
formal term than either siamad! or belly, and
it refers precisely to the front of the body
between the diaphragm and the pelvis. Long
ago, belly was the atanclard word to reler to
the same region. Later on it was suppressed
in favor of stomach, which is actually the
internal digestive organ.
Syn. belly, stomach,
a·bet (a·bet') v. a·Let·ted, a·bel·ling
To give aid and encouragement, especially in
term, viable.
a·brade (,,-brad') v. a.bmd·ed, a-Lrad-ing
To rub or wear off by friction; The waves
abraded the rocks.
8yn. scrape. chafe, gulL
a·bra·sive (;:dJra'siv) adj., n.
adj. Tending to wear down or rub away: Ihe
abra~ive ((ction of an <'II/rry board.
11. A IlliJ'{l, coarse, 01' gritty material such as
sand, that smuoths or polishes.
a·brullt (a-Ill'U!'!') adj.
1 Hegll)lling~ ending) or changing su{hlen)y
and unexpectedly: an abmpt e/"''''Je of
subject. 2 Curt or rude: his ubrupt 1fHln7Wr.
8yn. I precipitous, impetuous. 2 brusque,
bluff, uncer~moniolls.
Ani. 1 gradual, prolongeil. 2 COlil'(.eOlls,
genial.

525

abscess
ab·scess (ab/ses) n.
A collection of pus in some part of the body,
resulting from an infection and often
accompanied by painful inflammation: an
abscess in his gum.
Spelling tip: Remember abscess has a c in
the middle.
~
ab'8cond (ab·skond / ) v.
To depart suddenly and secreily, especially
to escape the law or to avoid punishment:
The overnight guest ab"conded with the family
jewels.
Syn. lea ve, disappear.
Ant. stay, remain.
ab·so.\ute·\y (ab/sa·loot'le, emphatic ab'sa·
loot'le) adv.
Completely or unconditionally: I am absu­
lutely sure.
Spelling tip: Absolule + -Iy.
Syn. totally, uncategorically.
Ant. partially, conditionally, tentative\'y.
alJol:ml vc (ab·sulv' ur ab·zul V') v. ab·oolved,
ab·solv·ing
1 To free from a debt, obligation, promise, or
ruling: His illness absolved him frum attending
the rrt(dinlj. 2 To acquit, as of guilt or wrong­
doing; forg:iv~: A prie8t absulves siuners.
Syn. I excuse, exempt. 2 pardon, exonerate.
Ant. 1 oblige, bind. 2 coudemn, convict.
ab·sorb Cab·sorb' or ab·z6rb') v.
1 To drink in or soak up: A blotter ab"urbs ink.
iJrivht children absurb knuwledve. 2 To hold
the attention completely; engross: The man
was absorbed in his newspaper.
Syn. 1 take in, swallow, assimilate. 2 im­
merse, occupy:
ub·E!()rp.tion (au·gorp'Hh"n or ab·zorp'oh,m) II.
I The act or condition of drinking in or soak­
ing up: the absorption of water by a spollge.
2 Preoccupation of the mind; concentration:
his cumplete absurplion ill Ihe baseball omlte.
Spelling tip: Note the p in the second syllable
of this word. But remember that absorb, the
verb, has a final b.
ab·sti·llellce (ab'sta·nans) n.
A refraining from or doing without certain
fuods, drinks, or !Jleasures: lIe was pruu.d of
his ab"tinence from smoking and drinking.
Syn. temperance, self-deprivation.
Ant. indulgence, intemperance.
faster: The ear
ab·stract (ab'strakt adj., n.; ab·strakt' v.) adj.,
n., v.
adj. I Considered apart from matter or from
part icular examples: abstract trulh. 2 Express­
ing a quality thought that is apart from any
real object having the quality: "BnH'ery"
and "blueness" are abstract nouns. 3 In art
Presented as a form or pattern rather than as
a representation of a real obiect: Many
abstrael paintings have been created by Picassu.
n. A summary of the most important points
of a book or document: a Ihree-page abstract.
v. 1 To make a summary 01, as a book or
document: to abstract the main points of the
Constitulion. 2 To remove or take away, es­
pecially secretly: Unnoticed, a thief abstracted
526
~
~
accept ~
the documenls frum the jile".---ab·strac'tioll 11., ~
ab.stract'ly adv.
ab,stract·ed (ab·strak'tid) adj.
Lost in thought; absent-minded: lIe lOa" su
~
abstracted that he "Iumbled againsI (l lamppost.
Syn. inattentive, absorbed, preoecllpied.
Ant. alert, attentive, watchful.
~
ab·struse (ab·stroos') adj.
Difficult to understand: Pur must peoplt;
nuclear physics is an abstr'use subject.
Syn. obscure, cornplex InYBleriulls.
~
J
Ant. simple, plain, intelligible.
a·but (a·but') v. a·but·ted, a.but·ting ~
To touch or join at the edge or side; border:
Our farm abuts our neighbor's property. ~
u·bys·mal (a·biz'mal) adj.
Too great to measure; without limit: She was
'moved to tears by the abysmal 1vrclchedness of
~
the poor.-a·bys'mal.ly adv.
Usage: Abysm(ll frl·quently implil'" being ~
hopelessly l)(~y{)nd c()rr('etion ur n~deIllpliull.
Syn. immeasurable, limitless. ~
Ant. limited, slight.
a·byss (a·bis') n.
1 A bott()mlc~ss gulf; eba:->rn: The {l1O/lfllaill ~
trait ran alollY tlw edye of <lll <lbyos. 2 AllY
gl'lmt de\Jth or emptiness: the abyss of ti-me. ~
ac·a·dcm,ic (ak'a.dem'ik) adj.
I Pertaining to a school, college, or uni ver­
sil"y: 111"ltY J"'o]J/e Ihink ()f Jhl'ir w'ude1lli"
'year" as Ihe h"1'pil'sl uf their tive". 2 Olferillg
or having to .do with liberal arts or classical
subjects rather than vocational or technical
st.udies: Culleye preparatury COIlJ'ses are taught
in an aew/elllic high "ellDol. 3 Having little
Ilracti<:al use or I)llrp()Sl~: It i~ w:l1demic 10
think abullt what might /",,," bren.
Syn. 3 theoretical, impractical, speCUlative.
a·cad·e·my (a·kad'a·me) n., a·cad·e·mies 1'1.
1 A private high sehoul or ~eeondary :-whoul.
2 A school giving in~lruclion in some science
or art: an acwlClay of music. 3 A society of
learned men for the auvancement of arts or
sciences.
Spelling tip: Hemember that academy, like
school, has one c.
ac·cc\·er.ate (ak·sel' a·rat) v. ac.cel·er·at·ed,
ac·cel.er.at.illl(
1 To cause to act or move
quickty accderalcd to sixty mil,," per hour.
2 To Jnake happen 1110rc quiddy: lr(lTJH
wi wi::; acceleratea lilUU." aC'l'c]'cr·a'tioll,
ac.ce]'er.a'lor n.
Syn. hasten, s\Jeeu, hurry,
Ant. delay, hinder, retard.
ac·cept (uk'sept') v.
1 To receive willingly: They accepted ollr gif:.
2 To give an allirl1lative answer to: lL
accepted their illvital'iull. 3 To take with gGo::
grace; submit to: lie accept" the f,e::-,
philosophicallY. 4 To receive a peco_ ,.
warmly: The new boy was (Juickly (LceeV: .
the neighburhuod. 5 To believe in: Il, Co. .
Bulldhiwl.
Usage: Do not confuse accept \\ i~ 1.
~
~
~
~
~
-'~
access accrue

.~ Except as a verb means to leave out: 1I'[edi­ bank robbery was a sa/ecrach:l'.

cines are excepted /r01/! sales tax. Exceft is Syn. accessory, confederate.

more commonly used as a preposItion ac·com.plish (a.kom'plish) v.

~ meaning but, as in Everyone except me drank
caffee.
1 To get done: }[uw rnuch can you ucco",pli~h
in un huur? 2 '1'0 finish: I've accomplished my
..~ ac·cess (ak'ses) n.
very secret mi"sion.-ac.com'pJish.ment n .
1 The act or opportunity to enter, come
Usage: AccoliipHsh applies to things that are
near, or obtain: The child had access to the
completed fully.
~ cookie jar. 2 A way of enterinl'; passage or

path: The mountain pass proVlded access to

Syn. 1 do, perlaI'm, achieve. 2 complele,

fulfill.
the' valley.

~ Usage: Do not confuse access with excess,

ac·cord (a·kord') n., v.

n. Agreement or hal'ITlony: Puniskment,,}wuld
which means too much of something.
be il! accord 'With the set'Grily 0/ the crim". The
-'II!!I!!I Syn. 2 entrance, approach, entry.

Ant. 2 exit, egress.

treaty brouvitt accord between liw dispatillll

ac·ces·si·ble (ak·ses'a. ball adj.
-III!!!!!J 1 Possible to reach or enter: The small
mountain settlement was accessible only by
~ muleback. 2 Easy to approach or speak with:
The chaplail! was a/riendly and accessible man.
a Attainable; obtainable: 'Phe book is in the
~ library, 'where it is accessible to all students.
" Open to the influence of: Few policemen are
~ accessible to oribery.-ac.ces'si.bil'j·ty n.
ac·ces.8o·ry (ak·ses'~r·i!) n., adj.; ae·celj·lio·
ries pl.
~ 11. 1 Something added for display, con­
venience, decoration, etc.: Purses and gloves
~ {Ire accessories to a woman's costume. 2 Some­
one wh(, encourages or helps anottwr who
ac·cord·ing.ly (J·kor'ding·le) ,,<lv.
commits a felony: BJlltidiny the criminal s1le
~ became an accessory tn the robbery.
adj. Aiding or contributing to the main
~
thing: accessory benefits to an insurance plan.
SYli. to. 1 detail, appurtenance, 2 cunfedcrale,
accomplice. adj. supplemental, extra.
~ .Ant. n. 2 opponent, rival, adversary. adj.
essential, inherent.
ac·c1aim (a·klam / ) v., n.
v. 1 '1'0 proclaim orhail: llew{l8 acclaimed the
winner, 2l'rai8e; applaUd: 'l'he/ans acclaimed
his heroic action.
n. Enthusiastic approvaL 11e received world­
wide acclaim for landing Ol! the Moon.
ac·eli·mate (ak'la·mal) v. ac·di·mal·ed, ac·
cli.mat.ing
To adapt to a different climate or environ­
ment: He acclimated himsel/ to the arctic cold.
-ac'cli·ma'tion n.
Syn. accustom, adjust.
ac-co·lade (ak'a·lad') n.
An honor or a ward: 'They heaped accaiude8
upon the astronaut.
Syn. praise, tribute.
Syn. furnishings, accessories.
Ant. criticism, rebuke.
ac·ere·Uon (,)·kre's!!,,,,) n.
ac·com·pa·ny (a·kum'pa·ne) v. IIc·com.pu.nicd,
ac.com.pa.ny·ing
1 'ro go with: A guide accompanied tlwm 011
their tour. 2 To play or sing the background
music to or for: A pia"ist u:as accompanying
the singer. 3 To supplement: He accompanied
his orders with threats.
Spelling tip: The past tense (accompanied)
advantage: .Uany benefits arcnted to the
changes the y to i.
nation when women betame eligible to vole.
Syn. 1 attend, escort, conduct.
2 To be added periodically: OTW year's
ac·com·pJice (a·kom'plis) n.
A partner in crime: His accomplice in the
n{ll'io"••
v. 1 '1'0 give or gmnt as dlle: Accord him lhe
respect thut he tieserve•. 2 '1'0 be in agreement
or harmony with: Their ahns accuri/with ours.
Also ae.cord'ance n.
USlllle: 'l'he phrase ill accurdmlt·c 'With means
in agreement with: to act in accurdunce 'with
instructions. However, 0/ unc's OW1! acctJrd
means voluntarily, by one's own choiee: 11e
confessed 0/ his own (If'WTlt.
Syn. u. conformilY, cOllcord. v. I alluw,
award, concede. 2 agft0 , harJflOllize.
Ant. n. conflicl, discord, disagreement. v. 1
deny. 2 disagree, clash, conflict.
J In H.grCt!fn(~ni with what ha~ eOJl1e before;
11e received tile gel/era!'" order ,,,,d acted
accordingly. 2 Therefore; cOllsequently: 1'/te
men's c/uovoted to accept lI'01llC", and
acc{Jrdinyly the 1tll1i~C '(>us c/tanged.
Syn. 1 corroBpundingly. 2 suo
Ilc·cost (,,'ko~t') v.
To approach and speak to: A beggar
accosted }tim in tlte street.
Usage: The word accost is ullpleasant or
thf£.!uteuillg in Lone. i\ Iwrs()H lH llfcdl'd hy
someone he kIlow" or is glad tu lllm:t. 11e is
usually accosted by a stranger whom he
would rather avoid.
Syn. address, hail, confl'ont.
Ant. ignore, leave alone.
ac·cou·'er·mcnts (0·koo't0r·m~lltBJ ".pt.
A soldier's equipment, other than clothing
and weaponry: knapsacks, canteens, gun
bells, and other military accoutenneuis.
Spelling tip: This word may "IoU be "polled
Ilc·cou·trc·menu. (,,·koo/tr~·monls). W hich­
ever way you spell it, "c" that "u" don't
forgel the two c's and the tI.
1 CumulaUve growlh or increase, ur the
whole resultiJlg from sueh a pruces" of
growth: 1l1! (lccretivn 0/ 'Ilnwritten laws. 2 An
addition from without: Accrel'ioJ!s 0/ paint
covered the oriyilwl IfI)()d.
ac·crue (s·kroo/) v . .. c·crued, ac.cru·ing
1 '1'0 come as a natural result, addition, or
interest had accrued on hi~ "aviullo {lCCOUUt.
Syn. 2 accumulate, collect.

527
accumulate
ae·cu·mu·late (a·kyOiim'y",lat) v. ac·eu·mu.
lat·ed, ac.cu.mu.lat.ing
To increase by regular additions: Dust had
accumulated on the manlel.
actuality
ac·me (ak'me) n.
The highest point: A Hillis Ruyce is eoll~
si<lere<l the acme of autolllUiive exeellence.
Syn. height, peak, summit.

Spelling tip: Accumulate the c's and the u's..

Ant. depth, nadir.

You need two of each.

a·eous·tics (<l·koos'tiks) n.pl.
Syn. collect, amass, gather.
The quality of a room or hall with respect to
Ant. dissolve, dissipate.
sound production: Carnegie llull };a3 e:rcd­
ac·eu·rate (ak'yar.it) adj. lent acuustics.
Free from errors: Your addition is (lccurate.-~ ac.qui.es.cent (ak'we,es'ant) adj.
ac'cu.ra·cy 11., ac'eu.rate.ly at/v. Willing to go along with somet.hing: Because
Spelling tip: You'll rate high if you spell there was a school dunce tI",[ ,tight, 1/", teacher
accurale accurately. was acquiescent to their rcqltest for less itullle­
Syn. correct. precise, exact. 'Work.-ac'qui.es'cence n.
Ant. erroneo'us, wrong, incorrect. Syn. compliant, agreeable.
ae·eus·tom (il·kus'tam) i', Ant. opposed, udv(orse.
To adapt by custom or habit: 10 accus/om
oneself to hard.hip. ac·quire·mcn! (a·kwlr'm..ml) II.
Spelling tip: 'le- + custom = accustom. I The act of acquiring: the u.cquirement of
Syn. habituate, inure, acclimate. . knowledge. 2 Something acquired, as a skill:
an accomplished young lady with many
ae·eus·tomed (a·kus't"md) adj. acquirements. Also ac,qui.si·(ion (ak'wi)'
Habitual or usual: The walchman 1vont his zish 'an) n.
accustomed rounds. Usage: An (tc'luiremerli is gained through
Syn. appointed, scheduled, regular.
study or practice rather than through
Ant. unscheduled, irregular.
natural talent. An acquisitiun is usually a
ae·e·tate (as'a·tat) n. material possession: a prized (lC(ltlisition for
A chemical compound containing a.cctic aci?, the rarc-book roo Ill.
such all cellulose acetate, whIch 1S used In Syn. attainment, accumjJlishlllcnt.

making synthetic textile yarns and fabrics. ae·quit (a·kwit') v. ao.quit·ted, ltC,quit·ting

a·eet·y·lene (a,set'a·len) n. I To declare innocent: The (lCl'usetl was

A colorless gas burned to produce ligbt or to acquitted of the crime. 2 To conduct oneself:

gi ve off hea t for welding or lor cuttmg 11e au/uWed himself like (l gentlea"'il . .

metals: an acetylene torch. Spelling Up: When yuu add <in cncllng to

a·chieve (a,cbev') v. a·chieved, a.chiev·ing acquit, don't q!til until you double the t:

To accomplish or win, often through effort: acquittal, acquitter, acquit/ance.

Fie has finally achieved fame.-a.chiev'er n. ae.rid (ak'rid) adj.

Spelling Up: In spelling achieve, remember 1 Dbagreeably sha.rp, l)jttf~r, or pungent..; the

the basic rule, i belore e except after c.

acrid odur of ruUon eyuo. 2 ::l harp and biting

Syn. attain, realize, obtain.

in manner: Ilis acrid alluck ou his eneml1

a·ehieve·ment (a'cMv'mant) n. included charging him witlt extortiun, bribery,

1 The act of accomplishing: the achi"vemel!t and deceit.

of equal emplollment opporl1mily. 2, S,?mething Syn. I penetrating, irrit<iting. 2 callstie,

accomplished: an award for dtstmgmshcd sarc<t.:)Lte, vitriolic.

scltolastic acltievemenls. Ani. 1 Llanu, mild. 2 I,inu, gentle.

Spelling tip: Achieve +

ment achieve­ ac·ri·mo·l1i·ous (ak'ra·mo'nihls) adj.

ment.
Full of bitterness: 'l'lte political discussion

Syn. accomplishment,.attainment.
tUT'iled into un acrimol1 iOf{;) debale, ac'ri'l1w'­
Ant. failure.
lIy n, '

ac.knowl·edge (ak-nol'ij) v. ac.knowl.edged, Syn. sarcastic, caustic. stinging,

ac·knowl.edg.ing Ani. bland, mild, good~natured.

1 To recognize' and admit: lie acknowledged

Ihe guod work done by his predecessors. 2 To ac.ro·nym (al\'r,J,nim) 1/,

report receipt of or express thanks for: tu An abbreviation that forms a word: Had"r

acknowledge a gift. (radio delee/iun and w"yil/U) is ait (/,!lullym.

Spelling tip: Display your knowledge when Usage: An (leNny'" is a combination of initial

you spell acknowledge. letters that may be pronounced as a word,

Syn. 1 confess, concede. such as NATO (Nortb .4tlantic 'Treaty

Ant. 1 deny, disavow, repudiate. Organization). An ubLrcviatio1/ is Pw];oullced

as separate letters, such as FBI (Federal

ae·knowl·edg·ment (ak,nol'ij.mant) n. Bureau of 1nvestigallOn).

1 Recognition or admission: an acknowli'dy­

ment of error. 2 A response or reply: They ae·lu·al (ak'chOii,~l) adj.

received Ihe invitation and sent an acknowl­ Real: a story based Oil Ui' act"ul wse hi,tury.

edgment. Syn. true, authemic, bonu tide.

Spelling tip: When adding -ing or -ment to Ant. false, fictitious, made~up.

acknowledge, push the last e off the ledge. ae·lu·al·i·ty (ak'chOii·al\l-te) n. . ..

Reality: 1n his daydreams he dId haUle c ..

-
Syn. 1 confession.
Ant. 1 denial, disavowal. bUI in actuality he was a cuwu.rd.

,..
528

-
~
~
~
~
~
actuary
~
Syn. truth, verity, fact.
Ant. 1 sulJtraction, deduction, removal.
~ Ant. pretense, fantasy, iHusion.
2 deduction, withdrawal.
ac-tu·ar·y (ak'choo·er'1!) n., ac.tu·ar.ies pl.
-~ A statistician who calculates and states risks
premiums, etc. for insurance purposes.-ac' ~
tu.ar'i·al adj., ac'tu.ar'i·al.ly adv.
~ ae·tu·aie (ak'chocHl.t) v. ac·tu·at·ed. ac·tu·at·
ing
~ 1 '1'0 set into aetion or motion:"- u lever
actuated by an electric current. 2 To influence
01' impel to action: lIe wa~ aci.uaied by feelings
~ of pity.--ac'tu·a'tioll, llc'tu'll'!or II.
SYII. move, drive, start, urge.
~ Ant. uiscourage, preveut, stop.
ad·age (au'ij) n.
An old, widely known saying that expresses
~ a common observation in a way that gives it
the authority and force of II truth, such as:
~ "11. man is known by the C01nl)any he keeps."
ad·a·mant (au'a·mant) udj.
Immovable, uuyielding, or unshakable: The
~ candidate w<)s adamant in refusing to expluin
his campaign plans.
~ Etymology: Adamant originally denoted a
veri hard, legendary mineral. The woru is
derIved from the Latin aaam-us, which
~ means the hardest metal (hence, unyielding).
Syn. pigheaded, stubborn.
.~ Ant. adaptable, compliant, docile.
a·dapt (a·dapt') v.
1 '1'0 change and make suitable for a new use
~ or to fit new conditions: He was u,;signed the
job of adapting the play for telel'ision. 2 Of
~ living things, to adjust to a new situation or
environment: The childrcn had sumc di.Diculty
adapting tv city life.
~ Usage: Don't confuse adapt with adopt.
Adopt means to take and follow as one's own
wilhout change: adopted his predecessor's
markt!liu!J plan. Adapt means to take a thing
and change it to fit !lew requirements and
conditions. . adheres tu hi" ideals ill spite uf th"i,. ilnpJ'(1cii­
ad·den·dum (a·den'dam) n., ad·den·da
(a·den'da) pi.
1 A thing added or to be added: addendum to
the c/winf<{w's speech. 2 A ~upr)lement, as to
a book.
Syn. 1 addition, annex. 2 appendix.
ad·die·lioll (a·dik'shan) 11.
The state of iJeing given over to 80me
pursuit, practice, or habit, especially lhe
compulsive use of habit-forming drugs: Her
cmVl1lg for sweels amounted almost to all
addiction.
Syn. liking, craving, habit.
Ant. aversion, disinclination, dislike.
ad·di·lion (a·uisl!'ali) 11.
1 The act of joining or uniting so as lo
increas;, the quantity, impor~ance, size, or
scope. 1 wo plus two t8 a Iyptca/ problem ill
additioY!. The addition uf a new porch to (jur
lw~se was costly. 2 That which is joined or
un\~e~: The music I~brary is a mosl interesting
addthon 10 our lown s culluml cellter.-ad·di'­
tion·al adj., ad.dj'lion.al.ly adv.
Syn. 1 annexation, accession, supplemenl.a­
tion. 2 annex, appenuage, accessory.
adjacent
ad·dress (~.dres'; <1180 adtres for H. dcfs. z ami
3) V., n.
v. 1 To speak to: I udrlr"Sdcd Ifim by n"",".
2 To deliver a set speech to: The President
addressed CUllgress. 3 To write or mark a
letter, etc., to whom and where it is to go.
n. 1 A Bet or formal speech: a'll add res,:,; tv
Co"gresll. 2 The writing 011 all em'dupe, eLC.,
directing it tt) a person or place. 3 The name,
p.lace l residenee 1 of a person etc,} uf organiza­
tIOn.
lId·duce (,)·d (y )OOS')U. ud·duced, ud.dudng
To bring forward examples, reaBon, or proof
Ior consideration in a discussion or analysis:
to adduce c?:i<!tltce on au/onw!'il" safety rccvnls.
Usage: Adduce implies offering facts or other
evidence to sllpport something that has he(jn
staled.
Syu. cite, allege.
a·dept (ddept') "'ij.
Highly skilled; proficient: 11e is adept at
icrolis.-" a.dept'iy aav'l a,dcpl'ncss It.
Spelling tip! SorneLirnt:8 ad{!pl i::5 C011fused
with adapl. Careful pronunciation uf the
second vowel in each word will bdp you
a void this error.
Syn. skillful, expert.
Allt. unskillful, itwjJt.
ad·e·quate (ud'd.kwit) atlj.
Equal to what ioJ required; suitable or
sufficient for the ease, occasion, or need: iire
his abilities "dc,!,wte fur ",<ell <! rCSI)()"oible
PWjitluH? ad'e'(luatc.ly wlv.
Syn. enough, saliofaclory, suHicivnt.
Ant. uusatisfactory, insulficien t.
ad·here (ad·hir') t'. ad·hered, ad·her.jng
1 To Slick fast or together: Tlte stUll<P ,muld
not (l(lJu:re to the envelope . .2 To be attaeheti or
devoted, as to a faith or political pafly: lie
caii/II. 3 '1'0 Iollow closely or without devia­
tion: lIe adltered to the pla".--ad.her'ence,
"d·her'ent n.
Syn. 1 hohl, ding. 2 follow, holu. 3 sUI'1'orl,
hold iu,
Ant. 2 deny, waver, <"hange.
ad·he·sive (ud·he'siv) adj., Jt.
adj~ Tending or prepared to !.1Lick: atilt( aiill-'
tape.
n. A sub:;(.ance thut causes adhe:;ion, as glue
or jlaste.~ad·he'sive.ly ("Iv., ad·he'l:live.
ness n.
Syn. adj. slicky j gUlluued. It. CeHlCIlt,
binder.
ad.i·potie (ad'd'pos) wi).
Of or pertaining to fat; futty: "d'jlool' tissue.
Also ad.i·PQu" (ad'd'!),'S) "dl.
ad·ja.cen! ( ,)·jU'S0flt) adj.
Lyi,,;: Ilcar or close at. I,,,"u, We u"ltyht IUlld
adjacent to the river."--·ad·ja'cent.ly wi•.
Spelling lip: A newspaper ad is pla~ed
adjacent to the news-remember the silent
d in this word.
Syn. adjoining, eouliguoUH.
Ant distant, remote, far.
529

adjust
ad.just (,,·just') v.
~
1 To arrange so as to fit or match: to /ldjust
the height of a bicycle seat for a tall person.
2 To regUlate or make accurate for satis­
factory use: to adjust the siohts of a gun. 3 To
harmonize or compose: The two men had
many differences to adjust before they could
join forces in business. 4 To adapt oneself, as
to a new environment: the difficulties of a
country boy adjusting to the cily.
Syn. 1 adapt, fit. 2 alter, fix, set. 3 reconcile,
a·dul.ter.at·ing
settle. " conform.
To make impure or inferior by adding
ad.ju.tant (aj/(j"6·t"nt) n.
A mil"itary staff officer who assists a com­
manding oUicer in administrative duties.
ad<lition of tuna jish.-a.dlll'ter.,,'lion n.
ad·min·is·tra·tion (ad·min'is·tra'shan) n.
ad·ver.sar.y (ad'v"r.ser'e.) n., .. d·ver.sar·les
1 Managing or directing, or being managed
pl.
or directed: administration of office routines.
2 All the persons who compose a govern­
ment, especially the executive department.
ring.
S The term of office of such a government or
Syn. opponent, enemy, rival.
of one of its officials; The new Administra­
Ant. supporter, friend, confederate.
tion look office in January. 4 All the persons
ad· verse (ad·vurs' or ad'vurs) adj.
who manage or supervise something, as a
school system.-ad·min'is.tra'tive adj.
A<lverse winds forced the little ship back to
Syn. I, " management, direction, control.
shore. 2 Unfavorable or harmful: The jury
ad·mj.ra!·ty (ad/mar·al·tij) 11.., ad·mi·ral·ties pI.
1 The office or functions of an admiral.
2 (Capital A) A department of the British
government having supreme charge of naval
affairs. . hardship, trouble, or misfortune: Early
ail·mon·ish (ad·mon'ish) v.
1 To criticize mildly or talk to someone
about a fault: He admonished the inattentive
student. 2 To warn, especially in a friendly or
sy'mpathetic way': The mother admonished her
btl/e boy about fibbing.-ad.mon'ish.er 11.
Syn. 1 chide, rebuke, reproach. 2 counsel,
caution, advise.
ad nau·se·am (ad na'zl!·am)
A Latin phrase meaning to the point of
causing nausea or disgust, espeCIally by
continued repetition or prolonged duration:
At Ihe dedication dinner, speeches went on
ad nauseam.
a.do·be (a·do/bl!) n.
• An unburnt, sun-dried brick. 2 The mixed
earth or sandy clay from which such bricks
are made. 3 A structure made of such bricks.
ad·o·les·cencc (ad'a·les/uns) n.
The period of life and growth from the
beginning of puberty to the stage of adult
development, roughly the ages twelve to
twenty-one.
Spelling til': Adole.Genee is a time for
school-remember there is an sc in the
middle of the word, as in school.
!I·dopt ( a·dopt') v.
1 To take a child of other parents into one's
own family as one's own child by legal
measures. 2 To take from someone else and
follow or use .as one's own: The politician
adopled his foc's persuasive speahllg styic.
a To accept or choose: to adopt a particular
textbook for use in all Bchools.-Il·dopt'a.ble
adj., a.dop'ter n.
Usage: See ADAl'T.
530
~
~
~
~
aerial ~
Syn. 2 appropriate, borrow. 3 embrace,
support.
Ant. 2 reject, discard, renounce.
a·droit (a·droit') adj. ~
Skillful or prepared in the use of bodily or
mental powers; dexterous or expert: odroit in ~
mathematics.-a.droit/Jy adv., a.droit'ness n.
Syn. clever, deft, handy.
Ant. awkward, clumsy, dull. ~
a·dul·ter·ate (a·dul'ta·ra.t) v. a.dlll.ter.at·ed,
~
ingredients that are impure or of lesser
quality: chicken sala<l adulterated bU the ~
~
A person who is actively hostile to another:
The boxer stared at his adversu.ry across the
~
~
~
1 Acting against; opposing or opposed:
~
returned an adverse !Jcrdict.-ad.verse'ly adv.
Ant. 1 helpful. 2 favorable, advantageous. ~
ad.ver.si.tr (ad·vur'si}·Le) n., ad·ver·sHies 1,1.
A conditIOn, circumstance, or occurrence "f
settlers had to overcome many adversities.
Syn. affliction, trial, calamity.
ad·ver·tise·ment (ad'var·tlz'mant or ad·vur'­
tis·mant) n.
A public notice, as in a newspaper or on a
radio or TV program, about a product,
service, etc.
ad·vis·er (ad·vj'zar) n.
A person who offers thoughtful suggestions,
opmions, or counsel.
Spelling lip: Sometimes confusion arises in
words like adviser about whether the final
vowel is an e or an o. III this case there is no
problem bccau~e lite word can be spelled
either way, ({dviscr or advisor.
ad·vo·ca·ey (ad/v<l·ka·se) n •
'l'he act of supporting a position or person:
advocacy of free trade among the European
nalions.
8yn. support. defense, backing.
Ant. opposition.
ad·vo·cate (ad'va·kat v., ad/va·kit 11..) v. ad·
vo.cal·ed, ad·vo·cal·ing; n.
v. To epeuk or write in favor of: lie witJOcatf:1:l
free speech.
11. One who supports: He is an adt'ocute of a
strong peqcetime army.
Syn. v. support, defend, favor. n. supporter,
defender, bucker.
Ant. v. oppose, rCBisL n. oppunent, resister,
antagonist.
aer·at·ed ( lIr'iit·id) adj.
Purified by exposure to air: aerated wuter.
acr·j·al (!ir'!!·;)l or a.·ir'e·al) a<lj., n.
adj. Of or in the air: aerial vapor.
n. A radio or television antenna.
---
~
~
~
~
~
aeronautics akimbo
~
aer·o.nau·tics (ar'6·no'tiks) n.
~ The science dealing with the design, con­
Usage; Agenda was originally the plural of
the Latin agendum, but is now usually
struction, and operation of aircraft. considered as the singular form, with agendas
~ af·fect (a·fekt') v. as the plural.
Syn. calendar, scheuule, program.
To act upon or have an inlluence on:
.~ Malnulrition adversely affeels growlh. ag.gran.dize.ment (a'gran'diz·mant) n.
Usage: Tile verbs affect and effecl have '1'he accumuilltioll of power, rank, or wealth:
totally different meanings and should be Ii e put the welfare of his cOlmlry above persona!
~ carefulty used. Effect means to bring about. aggrandizement.

---,
accomplish, cause, result in. To effect is to
change the end result; to affect is to act
upon..-1 different climate may affect his health
(that is, may influence one way or another).
ag.gra·vate (ag'r,,·vat) v. ag·gra·yat·ed, ago
Il r a.val.ing
1 To make worse: the sc(wOlwl pullen thai
aygnIv"tr!d his ulleryies. 2 Informal To arouse
~ A sunnier climate may effect his recovery
(that is, may bring about his recovery).
anger: Don't keep aggravating me u'ilh your
indiltuatiorw!
Effect is also a noun. meaning a result or Usage: The informal sense of aggravate
-AI!!!!J influence: tile effect of smoking on lIealth. illustrated by the second definition is best
af·fec·ta·tion (af'ek·tii'shan) n.
avoided in formal writing,
~ An artificial display or manner: Grandfather's

love of classical music was mere affectation.

Syn. 1 worsen, intensify. 2 provoke, annoy,

exasperate,
Syn. pretense, pose. Ant. 1 improve, meliorate. 2 aoothe, placate,
~ af·fi·ance (a·fi'ans) v. af·li.anced, af.fi,anc.in~ mollify.
'1'0 promise in marriage: affianced to the gtrl ng.~res·sive (a·gres'iv) adj.
~
......
he had known since childhood.
Syn. betroth. engage.
aC·fi·da·vit (af'a·da'vit) n.
A written declaration sworn to be true
before an official authority.
DIsposed to act vigorously or boldly; Tile
fiercely aggressive man l)1(fSued his goals
rutltlessly.~ag,gres'si\'e.ly
sive,ness n.
Syn. assertive, ambitious.
adj., ag·gres'­

~ af·fil·j·ate (a·fil'iHit v., a·fiI'e,it n.) v. af./il,j,al.
ed. af·fil.j·al.ing; n.
~ tI. To associate or unite: The local cZ,ib voted
10 affiliate with a national organiZation.
n. An associated person, company, etc.;
~ lily uncle i8 an affiliate of a large law firm.
Syn. v. join, merge. n. associate, partner.
~ aC·fiI.i·a·lion (a·fil'l!·ij'shan) II.
Association or connection: He was suspected
of having Communist affilial.iolls.
~ Syn. dealings, alliance.
aC·fin·i·ly (,,·fin'a.te) n., uf.1ill-i,tica pI.
~ A natural attraction or inclination: lie has
all affinit/l for loud sport shirts.
~
Syn. liking, enthusiasm, interest.
Ant. disinclination, repulsion,
AnI. mild, meek, shy.
a.ghast (,,'gast') w!j.
Speechless with horror; terrified: aglwdt at
the suff'erillY of the war-turn nation.
Syn. shocked. benumbed.
ag·He (aj'al or aj'il) adj.
Able to move quickly and easily: The agile
athlete jumped over the hurdles effortlcssly.~
all'ile,ly udv.
Syn. nimble, spry.
Alit. clumsy, awkward, ull~aillly.
ag·i·tatc (ai'",tat) v. ag·i·tal..,d, ug·i-tat,ing
To stir up or disturb: A siorm agitated tlte
oeeew. 11 e 'um3 utrcmely agitaleet by the illness
of his daugltter.-ag'i.la'tion n.
Syn. (!xcite, per~url), up;;ol.

-.......
af·fir·ma·tion (af'ar·ma'shon) n.
Something asserted to be true: a solemn
affirmation of Ihe equal rights of ali men.
Syn. assertion.
~ Ant. denial, retraction.
af·flu·ence (afilpo.on~) n.
~ Abundant wealth: New cars and expensive
homes attest to the affiucnce of the nation.
~ Syn. opulence, abundallce, riches.
Ant. poverty, destitution, deprivation.
a·gape (a·gap') adv., adj.
Gaping; wide open: Mouth agape, he staggered
with siuprise.
~ a·ged (il'jid for def. 1; ajd for def. 2) adj.
101<1: An aged, bearded mart sat silently on the
park bench. 2 At the age of: allouny man, aged
.~
twenty-three.
Syn. 1 elderly, ancient.
~ a.!en.da (a·jen'da) 11.
, list, as of business to be acted upon at a
meeting: the agenda for the UN Security
~ Council.
Ant. calm, soothe, set tie UOWli.
a·grar·i·al1 (a·grar'e·an) adj.
Huving to do with land. "specially agricul­
tural land, and its distribution and 0 wner­
ship: The peasants received their own small
farms under the agrarian refurm l'rogrwm.
ai·le·roll (ij'I~'roll) n.
A movable purt near the trailing edge of un
airplane wing, used to bank the plane.
air·foil (ar'fuil') n.
A surface, such ,tS a wing, aileron, etc.,
designed to provide lift or control for an
ai(1l1ane in flight.
aiolc (iI) n.
A pas»ageway between rows of "eats: Tile
bride walked duwn tile aisle.
Syn. pathway, nav\!.
a·kim·bo (d·kim'bO) adj., adv.
With the hands on the hips and the elbows
extended outward: Ile stood dcjjantly 'With
arms akimbu, awuitillg my reply.

'--"" 531
 ~

alabaster
al-a-bas-ter (al'e.bas/tar) n.
A fine-textured, white or tinted stone.
a.lac·ri·ty (a·lak/ra·tel n.
alliteration
.....
~

al·jen·ate (al'yan·at or a/le·an·at) v. al·ien·

at·ed, al.ien.at.ing
To make unfriendly or unable to communi­ ~
Willingness or readiness to respond or act cate: If you reveal your friend's secrets you wUl
quickly: The President responded with alien ute hilll.--al'ien.a'lioll, al'len.a'tor n.
alacrity to the danger by calling up the N a­ Syn. estrange, lose, put off. ~
tional Guard. Ant. hold, keep, win, conciliate.
Syn. quickness, promptness, speed, swiftness,
a·lign (a·lin') v. ~
liveliness.
1 'fo arrange into a line: Align Ihe books on
Ant. sluggishness, hesitation, reluctance.
the shelf. 2 To ally oneself with one side in a ~
aI;be·it (ol·be'it) conj. controversy: The U.S. was (lligned with
Even though: I agreed to do it, albeit with England in World War 1I.
misgivings. Spelling tip: Aline is also acceptallle, but ~
Etymology: Albeit was derived from three
align is preferred.
Middle English words, at be it, meaning
al·i·mo.ny (al'a·mo'ne) n.
~
altho'ugh it be.
'fhe money that a court requires a man. to

Syn. notwithstanding, nevertheless, but.

pay to his divorced or legally separated WIfe.

al·bi·no (al·bi'na) n. ~
al·ka·1i (al'ka·li) n., al·ka.lis or ai·ka.lies p!.

A person or creature lacking normal pigmen­ A substance, such as soda or ammonia, that

tatIOn and therefore white or very pale in neutralizes acids.

~
color.
al·lay (a·la') v. al·layed, al.lay·lng
al·bu·men (al·byoo'man) n.
To calm, pacify, or diminish: ilis ca!'mness ~
The white of an egg_
alia yed her anx iet y.
al·che.my (al/ka'mi!) n. Syn. soothe, quiet, moderaie.
Chemistry as practiced in the Middle Ages. ~
It was concerned chiefly with attempts to al·lege (a·lej') v. ai·ieged, al.leg·jng
1 To assert as true in the allsence of proof:
change base metals into gold.-al'che.mist n. They al/eged that lie had been seeli purchasing
~
al·{res·co (al·fre'sk(j) adj., adv. the murder weapon. 2 To plead as an excuse

In the open air; outdoors: an alfresco exhibit.

We dined "I/r".<:o on the patio.
or reason: Ile alleoed overwork as the <,(!Use of

/do< II<'Y/"Ct.-- nl.leged (u·1ejd' or 'J·lci'id) wij.,

~
Spelling tip: Also spelled al fresco. al.leg·ed.ly adv.

al·ga (al/ga) n., al·gae (al'je) pl. Syn. 1 claim, theorize.

A primitive plant such as seaweed and a!·le·giallce (a·Wjans) n.

pond scum.-al'gal adj. Loyalty; faithful adherence: allegiuHce to the
Etymology: Alga comes directly from ihe flag.
Latin word for seaweed. Syn. dedication, devotion, fidelity.

al·ge·bra (al'ja·bra) n. Ant. hostility, enmity, antipathy.

The branch of mathematics dealing with al·Ie·go·ry (al'a·gor'e) n., al.le·go.ries pI.
abstract quantities and the relations of A story in which characters and images
abstract numbers; calculations are done Ily represent ahstract id"",,: an a!lcuory ill w/rich
means of letters and symllols. contentmetlt was portrayed as a'purring ca/.­
a·li·as (a'le·as) n., adv.; a·U·as·es ?L.pl. al'le.gor/l.cal ad).
n. A false or assumed name: The gangster was
Syn. parable, faille, apologue.
known by several aliases.
al·le.gro (a·la'gro or ,,·Ieg'rol adj., "dv., 11.,
adv. Also called: Jones, alius Smith.
al.le.gros pl.
Syn. n. pseudonym.
adj., adv. In music Lively and fasl.
al·j·bi (al'a·bI) n., al·i·bis pl.; v. al·j·bied, n. A musical piece or passage in fast tempo.
al.j.bi.ing
n. 1 A legal defense by which an accused al·le·vi·ate (a·lI!'ve·ilt) v. al·le·vi·at·ed, al·le·
person tries to show that he was somewhere vl.at·ing
else when the crime was committed; His alibi To make easier to bear: N ur,cs alleviate
was that he was in the hospital at the time of the s1lfferinu.-al.le'vi·a'tion n.
murder. 2 Informal An excuse; lIe used a Syn. lessen, relieve, assuage.
faulty alarm clock as his alibi for being late to Ant. worsen, aggravate.
work. al·lied (a lid' or al'ld) adj.
al·ien ( al/y,m or a'le· an) adj., n. 1 Joint; friendly; cooperating: the allied
adj. 1 Of or related to another country: powers in Word War II. 2 Closely related:
refugees in alien territory. 2 Not natural; Biology and genet ics are allied fields of science.
strange: an alien custom. Syn. 1 united, joined. 2 interdependent.
n. A person who iH not a citizen of Uw eouniry
Ant. 1 divided, hostile. 2 indl'pendent,
in which he lives: The law requires that
unrelated.
aliena reqister with the government.
al·lit·er·a-tion (a.lit/a·ra'shan) n.
Syn. ad]. 1 foreign, strange. 2 outlandish,
In a phrase or line, the presence of two or
peculiar. n. foreigner, stranger.
more words with the same initial sound, as

--.-
Ant. adj. 1 native, indigenous. 2 natural,
Ihe lovely lilt 0/ Lily's t""Q"ler.·~al.Iit'cr·a.
ordinary. n. native, citizen.
live adj.

532
...
~
allocate
~
al-lo·cate (al'a·kat) v. al·lo·cal·ed, al.I/Hal .
.~ ing
1 To set aside for a specific purpose: A
~ budget allocatea funds for various itema. 2 '1'0
distribute or divide into shares: lIe allocated
hia time among severallasks .
.~ Syn. 1 earmark, tag. 2 allot, apportion.
ai·lot (a· lot') v. al·lot·ted, al.lot.ting
~ To opportion or assign: to allot committee
.......,
assignments; to allot blame. -al·lot'ment n.
Spelling tip: Note that the final t of allot
is doubled in all forms of the word except
in the noun aUotment.
~ al·low·ance (a·lou'ans) n.
1 A fixed amount that is given, permitted,
or allotted, especially a sum of money paid at
~ regular intervals for personal exrenses: Ilis
wife feceives a weekly allowance. Ii arty pounds
~ is the usual airplane luggage alloulance. 2 A
taking into account of modifying circum­
stances: The judge lltade allowance for the
.~ criminal's youth and ordered a reduced sen­
tence.
Syn. allotment, portion.
~ al·lude (a·l06d') v. ai.iud,ed, ai.iud.jng
'1'0 make direct or casual mention (used with
~ to): In job hunling, she alluded 10 her father's
influential friends.
.~
al.lu·sion (a.ldO'zhan) n.
A brief or indirect reference: His allusions to
another job ojJ<:r inHpired a pay rai.e.
~ Usage: Distingui3h between this word and
illusioll (meaning fantasy) and the seldom­
encountered elusion (meaning escape). An
allusion, however brief, is based on reality;
an illusion may have no basis whatsoever in
reality.
al·ly (a·ll' or al'i) n., al·lies pI.; v. al·lied, al.
ly·ing
D. To affiliate in a common cause or delense:
Political bosses often ally themselves with the
leading candidate.
n. A person nation, etc., associated with an­
other for a ~pecific purpose: warlime allicf.
Syn. v. join, link. n. friend, backer, associate.
Ant. ~. sever, dissociate, separate. n. enemy,
foe, opponent.
al·ma ma·ter (al'ma ma'tar or iil'm<> ma'tar)
n.
1 '1'he school or college one has attended.
2 The song or hymn of a sehoul ur college.
Etymology: Alma mater is from a Latin
phrase that means fostering mother.
alms (amz) n. sing. and pl.
a group or in unison; Let's sing ilii. ~ong al!
A gift or gifts for the poor; charity.
together.
a·loor (a·loof') adj., adv.
Cool or distant in manner; apart: Tlte aloof
boss did 110t mingle with the workers.
Syn. withdraWIl, taciturn.
Ant. gregariolls, friendly.
al·pac.a (al·pak'a) n.
1 A domesticated mammal of South America,
related to the llama. 2 'fhe long silky wool of
this animal, or cloth containing this wool.
al.read.y (ol·red'il) adv.
1 As of now or a special time: We were al-
alumna
ready as leer when you called. 2 So soon: Are
you dresse( already?
Usage: Don't confuse this word with the
two-word phra~e all reatly, wldeh means com­
pletely prepared or finished: Ile is alrelldy
all ready to go.
all rigllt (01 rit) adj., II(lv.
1 Correct; well: satisfactory; His gttesses were
all right. I feel "II riahi. 2 Certainly: I'll re­
memoer all right.
al·ter (01'tDr) v•
'1'0 lIlal,e or become different; modify; 2'hcy
altered their itinerary to iuelwle London.--al·
ter,a'lion n.
Syn. change, l'evll'3c.
Alit. maintain, preserve.
al·ter·ca·tioll (ol'tar·ka'shen) n.
A heated dispute; wrangling, (often ~ccom­
panied by blows); The !!lllOlt meeting re­
mained free of any allercutiolls.
Syn. controversy, debate, quarrel.
Ant. agreement, cooperation.
al·ter·nate «(Wter,nat v.; ol'tar·nit adj., n.) v.
al·ter.n.at·ed, al,ter.nat.ing; adj., n. .
v. 1 To follow or cause to follow one another
by turns: Oood and bad limes alternate. 2
take turns at; Soldiers alternaled senlry duty.
To
adj. 1 Every other; every second: The city
museum is open Oll alinrnate weekends. 2 Offer­
ing or expressing a choice; an alternate ro~lc.
1l. A substitute: ... /1 ,,/tenUlte IS Ul'mlable 'I"
delegale becomes ill. - al.ler·na'lion n., al'ter.
nate·ly adc.
SYI1. v. interchange'. adj. 2 additiomd, exira.
n. deputy, replacement, proxy.
al,ter·na·tive (61·lUr'lla·tiv) 11., adj,
n. One of two or lUore things to be chosen,
or a choice bet ween these things: Ihe allerna­
tive of death or dishonor. .
adj. Offering a choice of two or more thmgs.
-al.ter'lIa.tive.iy "dv,
Syn. n, option, possibility.
al.t!lOugli (oHM') conj. .
Despite the fact that: Although I was afraid,
I did not panic.
Spelling tip; Altho is slill considered nOli­
standard by most authorities,
al·to·getll,er (61'ta'get;h'ar) adv.
1 'l'horoughly; completely; (W "lIooclll"r 100rth­
iess b«uk. 2 In all; all t"hi; 1'"/;",, a!iuiltltiter,
Ihe return~ are encuuraging.
Usage: Don't confuse this word with the
two-word phrase all together, meaning as
Syn. 1 wholly, entirely.
al·tru·ism (al'trOo·iz'..>m) It.
Selfless devotion to the well-being of others:
'i'he Peace Corps apJi"ab tv YOlttlllll1 «ltruism.
-,·al'tru·ist n., al'tru,is'tic aclj.
Syn. unselfishness, idealism.
Ant. selfishness, greed.
a·lum·llu (J·lun1'lla) 11., a·lum·nae (<J·lum'ne)
pl.
A female graduate or former student of a
scbool or college.
533
 C!!!!!!!.
~
alumnus among
~
a·lum·nus (a·lum'nas) n., a·lum·ni (d·lum'nI) Syn. obscure, equivocal.

pl. Ant. straightforward, direct. Il!!!!!.

A male graduate or former student of a school am·hro·sia (am-bro'zha OT am·bro'zhe.a) n.

or college.
Usage: The plural alumni is often used to
refer to graduates or students of coeduca­
tional institutions. .'
a·mal.gam (a·mal'gam) n.
A combination or mingling of two or more
things: Her con/used/eelinfl8 were an amalflam
1 In classical mythology, the food of the ~
l;ods: Nectar and ambTosiaweTe the dl"ink and
food 0/ the immortals. 2 Any very delicious
food or drink. ~
a·mel·io·rate (a·mel'Yd·rat) v. a.mel·io·rat·ed,
a.mel.io.rai.ing ~
To make or become better: Congress u'as

0/ love, hate, and fear. urged to pass legislation to ameliorate the

~
Syn. union, alloy, mixture. condition 0/ th6 American ludia1t.·~-a·mcl'­

a·mal·ga·mate (a·mal'g<l·miit) v. a·mal.ga.

io.ra'tion n.

mat·ed. a.mal.ga.mat.ing
Syn. improve. ~
To unite or combine: Various unions amal­
Ant. worsen, damage.

gamated to present a united/ront in wage ne(/o­

a·men (a'men' or ii'men') intcrj. ~
tiations.-a·mal.ga.ma'iion n.
So be it: used at the end of a prayer or state­
Syn. join, come together.
ment to express agreement.
Ant. separate, part, split up.
Etymology: Amen was originally a Hebrew ~
a·mass (a· mas') v. word meaning verily or truly.
To heap up; accumulate: lie amassed great a·me·na·hle (a.me'n,,·b~] or ,,·men';)·bol) adj. ~
wealth. Willing to be persuaded or to submit to
Syn. gather, collect, put together. direction or authority: 1'l/e 'Union was ~
Ant. dwindle, evaporate, subside. amenable to a proposal 0/ a wage increase.
am·a·teur (am'a·chi11)r, am'a·t(y)i11)r, or am',,· a·mend (a-mend') v.

tor) n., adj. To change, especially so as to improve: to

~
11. 1 A person who practices an art or acti vity amend the Constit'Ution.-a·mend'meni n.

for pleasure rather than as a profession: Spelling tip: '1'0 amend is a way of mending
~
Olympic game contestants must be amateurs. something that is lacking in some respect.

2 A person lacking skill in a particular

Syn. Correct, rectify, revise.

activity: Po!iticai amateurs can ruin a candi­

am·j·ca·ble (am'i·k,,·bal) adj.
~
date's image.
Characterized by good will or friendship:

adj. Not expert or professional. Also am'a·

Both parties reached an amicable settlement to

teur'ish adj.
the dtspute.~·-am'j.ca.bil'i·ty n., am'j·ca·hly

Syn. n. 1 adj. nonprofessional. n. 2 duffer,

adv.

beginner.
U8uge: A'",icaLle it; normally ulled to describe

An!. prOfessional, pro, expert.

an action, gesture, etc. Amiable, however, is

am.a·to.ry (am'a·tor'e or am'a·tO're) adj. usually used to describe a persOll.

Pertaining to or exciting love, especially Syn. peaceable, well-intentioned.

sexual love: an amatory poem. Ant. unfriendly, hostile.

Syn. eroLic, amorous. am·rna·nia (v·man'y" or v·mO'nth}) n.

am·a·zon (am'a·zan) n. 1 A colorless, suffocating gas formed from

A large, strong, or athletic woman. nitrogen and hydrogen. 2 Ammonia gas dis­

Etymology: Ama.on comes from Greek roots solved in water, used for cleaning.

meaning without a breast, because of the fable Spelling tip: Don't get ammonia in your "i"

that female Amazon warriors of Greek my­ -but remember the i in this word.

thology cut off their right breasts so that am·ne·sia (am·ne'zha) n.

they could more easily shoot with a bow. Partial or total loss or impairment of

am·bas·sa·dor (am·bas'a·dar) n. memory: A/ter the automobile crasll, he

1 A diplomat of the highest rank who suffered Jrom partial amnesia Jar several days.

represents his government in a foreign ~~am·nes·ic (am·ne'"ik or am·ne'zik) atli.

country: 'I'he new ambassador presented his am·nes·ty (am'nas.te) n.

~redentia!s to the President. 2 Any personal An official, general pardon of offenders by a

representative.-am.bas'sa.do'ri.al adj. government: A/ter the Civil War ended, the

Syn. 2 agent, go-between, minister. U.S. granted an amnesty to tnO"t captured

am·bi·dex·trous (am'ba-dek'stras) adj.

suldiurs.

Able to use both hands equally well.

a·mong (d'lUung') 'Prep.

1 In the midst of: a house amon!! {fw trees.

am·bi.gu·i·ty (am'ba·gyOo'a·t~) n., am·hi·gu· 2 Within or by the group of: agreement

i·iies pi. ail/Mig all the nations.

An expression, remark, etc. that can be U;mge: Among is preferred when more than

variously interpreted. two objects are considered as a group;

am·big.u.ous (am·big'yOo·as) adj. between is preferred when comparing only

Capable of beinjt variously understood: "Yes two things: The trade bet'ween the Dodgers and

and no," was hts ambiguous response.- am· lIfetswas the first stage 0/ a deal among four

blg'u.ous·ly adv. clubs.

534
~
~
---,
~
~ amoral
.~
a·mor·a! (a·mor/al) adj.
Not concerned with, or lacking sense of,
~ rightness and wronijness: Some scientists
regard the first atQmJC bomb project a8 an
~ amoral effort-the develorment oj the bomb
rather than its potentia use was the sale
consideration.-a'mor.al/Hy n., a·mor'aHy
-~ adv. . analgesic.
am·or4ize (am'ar·tiz) v. am·or·tized. am·or·
.~ Uz·lng
To extinguish ~radually, as a debt or
liability: to amorhze a debt by making periodic
~ installment payments.--am'or.ti.za'iion n.
am·pere (am'pir or am·pir') n.
boys and one rotten apple in ·a barrel.--·a.nal.
~ Efectricity The unit for measuring the
strength of current.
~
Etymology: Ampere was named after Andre
Marie Ampere, 1775-1886, a French physi­
Syn. comparison, agreement, likenes~.
cist.
Ani. difference, dissimilarity.
~ am· per· sand (am'par.sand) n.
The character H&," meaning and.
~ Usage; An ampersand should not be used in
formal composition. It occurs most often
in company names (Funk & Wagnalls. etc.).
~ am.phib·j·an (am'fib'~'iln) adj., n.
adj. Pertaining to a class of cold-blooded
~ organisms adapted for life both on land and
in water: Froga and salamanders are am­
phibian creatures.
~ n. Such an animal or plant.
am·phl·the·a·ter (am'!a·the'a·tar) n.
~ An oval structure with tiers of seats built
around an open area: Baseball stadiums are
~
amphitheaters.
am· pie (am'pvl) adj.
1 Large: a matronly woman with an ample
~ bosom. 2 Adequate: Many people consider
$10,000 all ample yearly income.-am'ply adv.
Syn. 1 full, big, abundant. 2 sufficient,
enough.
Ant. 1 smail, scanty, slight. 2 insufficient,
lacking.
am·pii.Cy (am'pla·fj) v. am·pli·fied, am.pli.fy.
ing
1 To enlarge or add to: After his brief speech,
reporters asked the President to amplify his
statements. 2 Electronics To increase the
strength of: to amplify a sil1nal.-am'pli./i.
ca'tion n.
Syn. 1 increase, expand.
Ant. 1 diminish, lessen.
am·pu·tate {am'pyoo·tat} v. am·pu·iat.ed,
am·pu.tat.ing
To cut olf ·by surgery: They were forced /0
amputate the gangrenous toe.
am·u·let (um'Yil·lit) 11.
An object worn by the superstitiCluB as a
supposed protection against sickness, acci­
dent, bad luck, etc. Amulets are most orten
worn around the neck, and are often engra ved
with magic .figures or inscriptions.
SYIl. charm, talisman, fetish.
an·a·gram (an/a.gram) u.
A word or phrase formed by reordering the
le~terti uf another word or plirase: "Tame" is
anemia
an anagram uf "male." Anagrams is a game
based on such word play.
an.al·ge.sic (an'al·je'zik) adj., n.
adj. Promoting or pertaining tu the allevia­
tion of pain: an analgeslc drug.
n. A drug that alleviates pain: Aspirin is (Ill
Syn. painkiller.
a.nal·o.gy (a.nal'a.jil) n .. a·nnl·o·gics pI.
A similarity or resemblance in certain
respects between things that are otherwise
dissimilar: The newspaper noled lite analog1J
between oue troublemaker in a group of twenty
o·gous (a·nal',,·gas) adj.
Spelling tip: Note the 0 in this wOl'd, and the
g in the last syllable (pl'onounced as a j).
a·nal·y·sie (a·nal'a·sis) n., a·nal·r·ses (a·nal ' ".
sl.\z) pl.
A way of determining or describillg some­
thing by separating it into its compollent
parts: A thorough analysis of the 11<11iou'8
economic situation requires manll statistics.
Spelling tip: Rememher the y In the middle
of the word.
an·l1·!yze (an'a·liz) v. un·a·lyzcd, ull.u·!yz·ing
To separate into parts or elements, e:;peciuily
in order to determine the nature or form of
something: He carefully analyzed the camli­
date's proposals.
an·ar·chy (an'ar·ldl) H.
1 Absence of government: Some radical:; in
tlle 19303 favored anarchy. 2 La wle"" confusion
and disorder: Riotitlg could lead to a state of
anarchy.
Srn. 2 chaos, turbulence, hedlanl.
Ant. 2 order, peace, serellity.
all·cho.yy (an'cho·vEl, an'ch,,·ve, or an·eha've)
11., an·cho·yies pl.
A small, herringlike fish that is cut into
small strips and packed in brine. This
delicacy is oHen u:;ed to garnish "aladl1 or is
served as an appetizer.
an·dan·te (an·dan'ta or an·dan'te) adj., adv.,
n.
adj., adv. In music Moderately slow: an an­
dante passage; played andante.
n. A moderately slow movement or pad"age
in a musical composition.
EtymQlogy: Andante comes from an Italian
word meaning walking.
and·j·roll (aHd'i'arn) lI.
One of two metul supports for ho!tling wood
in an open fireplace.
an·ec·dote (an'ik·dot) n.
A short narrative of an interesting or
entertaining indden t.
a·ne·mi·a (a·ne'me·a) n.
A condition of the blood in which there is a
deficiency in the number of red corpuscles or
in the amount of hemoglobin. It resulls in
pallor, 1088 of energy. and other symptoms.
~ ","e'mic adj.
535

anesthesia
an·es·the·sia (an'is·the'llha or an'is·the'­
zhll·a) n.
Localized or general insensitivity to pain,
with or without loss of consciousness, due to
the use of a drug such as ether, novocaine,
etc.
an·es·thet·ic (an'!s.thet'ik) n., adj.
. n. A substance that causes unconsciousness
or deadens sensation in part of the body,
used especially during surgery.
adj. Of or having to do with such a substance.
an·es·the·tist (a·nes'tha·tist) n.
income of $5000.
A person, especially a doctor, trained to
n. 1 A book or pampblef issued once a year:
administer anesthetics.
a pltotagra1,ily animal. 2 A plant that lives
an·gle (ang'gal)n., v. an.gled, an.gling
n. I A geometric figure formed by the
divergence of two straight lines or surfaces
from a commQn point. 2 The space between
these lines or surfaces, measured in degrees.
3 A point of view or aspect from which some­
thing is regarded: We looked at Ihe situalion
from all angles.
v. To move or turn at an angle or by angles:
The slartled deer angled across Ihe field.
~
an.go·ra (ang·gor'a or ang·go'ra) II.
I A goat, originally from Ankara, Turkey,
~
raised for its long, silky hair. 2 The long,
silky hair of this goat, or cloth woven from
it. 3 A variety of cat with long, silky hair.
an·j·mos·j·ty (an'a·mos'a·tel n., an·i.mos-i.
ties pl.
Dislike or hatred; hostility.
Syn. enmity, antalijonism.
Ant. love, friendshIp, amity.
an·ise (an'is) n.
A small South European and North African
plant cultivated for Its flavorful seeds, which
are UBcd in medicine and as a flavoring in
cooking.
an·nals (an'ulz) n.p!.
1 A record of events in their chronological
order, year by year: the annals of aerospace.
2 Historical records: the anna!a of the early
Eng!ish kings.
Etymology: Annals comes tram the Latin
word annus, meaning year.
an·nex (a·neks' v. an 'eks n.) v., n.
v. To add, as an additional or minor part:
The powerful bulsmall nation yearned to annex
8urroundin~ territories.
n. An addItion to a building, or a nearby
Before the war, especially before the Civil
building used in addition to the main one.
War in the U.S.: There were many large cotton
Syn. v. append, attach.
plantations in the anle-be/hlm Soath.
Ant. v. detach, separate.
an·te·date (an'ti·diit') I'. an·le·dat·ed, an·te·
IIn·ni·hi·lalc (~·nl',,·laL) v. an·ni·hi·!al·od, an·
ni·hi·lal·lng
To destroy completely; do uway with: ~'hc
platoon was annihilated during the viciolts
earlier than the acLual one: 10 allledaic a
attaek.-an.nl'hi.la!tion n.
check:
!3jlelling tip: Note this word has an h, as in
Syn. 1 precede, preexist. 2 prf!daLc.
H-bomb.
Ant. I follow, come after. 2 postdate.
Syn. exterminate, eradicate, abolish.
an·thro.poid (an'thre·poicl) adj., n.
Ant. preserve, protect, save.
adj. Like a human being in form or in other
an.ni.vcr.sa.ry (an'e·vilr'ser·e) n., an·nl·ver.
sa·des pI.
'I'he day of the year on which some event
536
~
~
anthropoid
~
took place in a preceding year: a wedding
anniversar·y. ~
an·no·tate (all'o·tat) v. an·no.taL·cd, IIn·no·
tat.ing ~
To provide a text, etc. with explanatory or
critical notes: The Bible has been annotated by
many scholars.-an'no·la'lion n . ~
an·nu·al (an'yoo.al) adj., n. ~
adj. 1 Performing or occurring every year:
Independence Day is an annual holiday.
2 Reckoned by the year: He has an annual ~
~
for only a single year or season.-an'nu.al.ly
ad!,. ~
Bn.nu·i·ly (a.n(y)oo'".le) n., an·nu·j·ties pl.
1 Money paid yearly or at specilled periods: ~
The widow receives an annuity from her
hllsband's estate. 2 The right to receive or the
obligation to pay such money. ~
an· nul (a·nul') v. an.nulled, an.nul·Hull
1 To make null or declare in valid: to umlUl a
marriage. 2 To put an end to something: His
mother Qnnulled Iris fears.-an.nul'ment n.
Syn. 1 nullify, cancel, void. 2 obliterate,
aboliBh, annihilate.
~
a·J1ol\l·a·lous (a·nom'a·las) adj.
Deviating from the ordinary rule or condi­
tioll or from what would normally be ~
expected; unusual: The illcorruptible politi­
cian was un anomaluus person m /I/O yraf/­
ridden city.
8yn. abnormal, atypical, aberrant.
Ant. normal, usual, typical.
jI.llom·jI.\y (a·nom'a·le) n., a·nom·a·lies 1)/.
I Devialioll from the common rule, type, OJ'
form; irregularity. 2 Anything allomalous:
The platypus, an egg-laying mammal, is an
anomaly.
Syn. 1, 2 peculiarity, abnormality.
a·llol\·y·mOUi:i (,,·non',,·mJs) ",lj.
I Having no acknowledged name; bearing 110
name: Ihe anonymous hordes of the poor. 2 By
or from someone whose name is unknown:
The famolts poet wrole an anonymuus poe·nt.
-a.non'y.mous.ly adv.
an· Ie-bellum (all'U;·bel'um) adj.
dut·ing
1 '1'0 be or occur earlier than: 'i'lw ~1Vord
auleclaics the gUll. 2 To assign to a dute
characteristics; manlike: The yorilla is Qll
anthropoid ape.
n. A manlike ape, such as the chimpallz()~.
~
--,
---,
anthropology
~ an.thro.po\.o.gy (an'thr,,·po\'a·je) n.
~ 1 The science that deals with the physical,
social, and cultural development of man, his
origin, evolution, and geographic distribu­
~ tion. 2 'fhe study of the customs, and folkways
of an ethnic group.-an'lhro.pol'o.gist n.
~ an·thro·po·mor.phic (an'thra·po·m(\r'fik) adj,
Described or thought of as having human
form and human characteristics: used in
~ referring to a deity or to any being that is not
human.-an'thra·pO·lI\or'phism n.
~ an·tic.i·pate (an·tis'a·pat) v. an·tic-i.pat·ed,
an.tic.i.pat·ing
l '1'0 look forward to or eXlwct: to anticipate a
~
pleasant vacation. 2 To foresee: Science-fiction
writers have long anticipated jlights to the
~ Moon. 3 To act or arrive sooner than,
especially so as to forestall: to anticipate the
enemy'. next move.·--all.lic'i.pa'tion n .
.~ Syn. 1 await, hope for.
an·ti·mo.n)' (an'ta.mo'ne) n.
~ A silver-white, hard metallic element used in
making alloys, and in medicine and the arts.
an.tip·a·th)' (an·tip'a·the) n., an.tip.!I.thieli pI.
~ 1 A feeling of aversion or dislike: an antipathy
to greasy foods. 2 A person or thing that
~ causes such aversion or dislike.
Syn. 1 hatred, loathing.
Ant. 1 liking, preference.
~ an.tj.quar.), (an'ti·kwer'e)n., an·li·qu.ar·ies pl.
A person who collects, deals in, or studIes
.~ antiques and very ancient relics.
an·ti.sep·tic (an'ta·sep'tik) adj., n.
~
adj. Preventing or counteracting the growth
of !,erms so that infection is stopped: the
anhseptic action of iodine.
~ n. Any substance having antiseptic qualities:
Medical alcohol ia a widely used antiseptic.
Syn. n. disinfectant.
~ an·tltb·e·sis (an·tith'a·sis) n., an·lHh·e-ses pI.
1 The direct opposite; a strong contrast:
~ Pleasure is the antithesis of pain. 2 Opposi­
tion, contrast: the antithesis of cold and hot.
Syn. 1, 2 reverse, converse.
~ "nt. 1, 2 agreement, accord.
anx.i·e·t)' (ang'2.I'".te) n., anx·l·e·ties pl.
~ • An uneasy or fearful feeling: He has great
anxiety about his health. 2 Great eagerness: his
anxiety to be successful.
Spelling tip: Remember that this word is
spelled with an x that is actually pronounced
liZ.
A.pach.e (o·pach'e) n., A.pacll·esor A.pach·e pl.
A member of a group of North American
Indians living in southern and southwestern
parts of the U.S. and famous as warriors.
up·Q·thet·ic (ap'a·thet'ik) adj.
Lacking emotion; indifferent: Many people
are apathetic about current eve1Lta.-ap'a.
thet'i.cal.ly adv.
Syn. uninterested, unconcerned, passive.
Ant. excited, interested, a ware.
ap.a.thy (ap'a.the) n.
1 Lack of emotion: the apathy oj a depre.sed
person. 2 Lack of interest; indifference: the
apathy toward religion in modern times.
apostle
Syn. 1 insensibility. 2 unconcern, coolness,
neutrality.
Ani. 1 f"eling, excitement, sensitivity. 2
interest, concern, involvement.
a·per·lure (ap'ar·ch06r or up'ar·char) n.
An opening or gap, as between sections of a
solid object: an (!perture between her froll!
teeth.
Syn. space, hole.
a·pex (a'peks) n., a·pcx·es or up.i.ces (ap'a·
sez) pI.
I The highest point; top: the apex of a
pyramid. 2 A climax: llis election 10 tiw
Presidency was Ihe apI''' oj his career.
Srn. I pinnacle, summit. 2 culmination,
111gh point, acme.
Ant. 1 base, foot. 2 nadir.
a.pi.ar.), (a'pe.er'e) 11., a.pj.ar.ies 1'1.
A place where bees are kept.
a.plomb (a·plom' Or a·plum') 11.
Assurance, self-confidence: She acted with
aplomb in the most difficul! social sitnutions.
Spelling tip: Watch the silent b.
SYll. poise. self-possession, cahnne:;s.
Ant. discomposure, confusion. embarrass­
ment.
a·poc.a.l)'p·!ic (a·pok' ,,·lip'tik) adj.
Of, like, or havll1g to do with a revelation:
a sermon wilh almosl apuwlyptic over/ones.
Syn. prophetic, revelatory.
iI·poc·ry·pha\ (a'l'0k'ra,fal) a(/j.
Having little or no authenticity: He toltl an
apocryphal glory a.buut ias:"wing !lriz,:.iy 11l;ar.
(l
Etymology: This 'Nord is deri "ed from
Apocrypha. the name for a group of books
included in some versions of the Old Testa­
ment. (The Apocrypha is llot included in
oLhers because it is con:;ith,red unauthenli­
cated.) .
Syn. questillnable, spurious, uubious.
Ant. authentic, genuine, reliable.
ap·o·gee (ap',,·je) n.
1 The point ill the orbit of u ce\eotial body,
such a.s the Moon or an artificial satellite,
that is farthest from the Earth. 2 r,'igura­
tively, the highest or farthest point: at Ihe
apogee of his career.
Syn. 2 culmination> al)CX, dimax.
a·pol·o.g)' (a·pol',,·je) n., a.pol.o·gies pl.
l A statement or explanation expressing
regret for some error or offense. 2 A justifica­
tion or defense, either written or spoken: to
offer all apology for one's 'I'hilusophy of life.
a A poor SUbstitute: The snack",,,s only an
apulogy Jor a flllZ meal.
n·pos·ia.s)' (0-pos'la·so) n .• u.pos·ta·;;ics '1'1.
Desertion of one's faith, religion, party,
principles, etc.
a.pos·!le (a·pos'vl) n.
1 A preacher or missionary, as one of
Christ's twelve disciples. 2 An early or
important advocate of a cause: one oj the
apostles of lhe ban-i/w-Dumo uwvemeut.
Syn. 1 evangelist, revivalist. 2 espouser,
promoter, supporter.
apostrophe.
a.pos·tro.phe (a·pos/tra·fe) n.
1 A symbol (') used to mark the omission of
a letter or letlers, or io indicate the posses­
sive case, as in Gene's hause. 2 A digression
from a discourse, consisting of an address to
an imaginary or absent person: 'The speaker
stirred us wilh an aposlrophe la Lincoln.
a.poth·e·car.y (a·poth'a·ker'e) 11., a·path·e,
ear·ies pl.
A person who sells drugs and fills pre­
scriptions.
Syn. druggist, pharmacist.
ap·pal·ling (a.po/ling) adj.
Causing dismay, horror, or terror: the
appalling devastation of Hiroshima.·~ap.pal'­
ling·ly adv.
Spelling tip: Remember that ihe root word,
appall, has two a's, two p's, and two I's.
Syn. frightful, shocking, horrifying.
ap·pa·ra·tus (ap'a·ra/tas or ap'a·rat/as) n.,
ap.pa·ra.tus or (rarely) ap.pa.ra·tus·es pl.
A device or machine, or group of toob,
appliances, instruments, etc., used for a
particular purpose: the complicated apparatus
llecessary to heat a large office building.
Syn. appliance, equipment, mechanism.
ap·par.en! (v·par/ant or "'par/ant) adj.
I Easily perceived by the mind or the eye~:
It was apparent that he was bluffing. 2 Seem­
ing, as opposed to real or true: apparent
optimism despite failure.-ap.par'ent,1y adv.
Spelling tip: Watch the .two p's and the e in
this word.
Syn. 1 obvious, self-evident. 2 ostensible.
Alit. 1 concealed, hidden, 2 actual, genuine.
ap.pa.ri·tion (ap/a.rish'an) n.
1 A visual aIJr){Jarance of a diHembodied
spirit: periodic sightings of a weird apparition
in the deserted castle. 2 Anything that appears,
especially if it is remarkable Of startling: Her
lalcnt was a glorious apparition in a child of
such ordinary parenls.
Syn. 1 ghost, phantom. 2 phenomenon,
marvel, wonder.
ap·pease (a,pez') v. ap,peased, ap.peas.ing
1 To make calm or peaceful, especially by
conceding something or giving into demands:
Concilialory moves by management lend to
ap· pre·ci·ale (a.pre'she·at) v. ap'iJTe.cj.a!.cd,
appease strikers. 2 To satisfy or cause to
ap.pre.ci.at·ing
subside: Appease your thirst with iced tea.
1 To be fully aware of the valuu, importance,
Syn. 1 placate, soothe, pacify. 2 lessen,
etc. of; understand or enjoy: 10 appreciale
alleviate, ease.
classical music. 2 To be keenly aware of or
Ant. 1 aggravate, worsen, irritate. 2 inten­
sensitive to: 10 appreciate lhe gravity of
sify, increase, magnify.
another's problems. a To feel gratitude for:
ap.pel·la·tion (ap'a·la'shan) n.
A nume or title, especially an added or
identifying name as a nickname, pseudonym,
etc., that is separate and dislinct from a
proper name: The appellation of King
Richart! I was Richard the Lion Hearted.
Syn. designation, moniker, cognomen.
ap·pend (a·pend') v.
To add or attach, as something subordinate
or supplemental: to append a series oj foot­
1Iotes.
538
apprehend
ap·pell·dage (a·pen'dij) n.
Anything that is added or attached to some­
thing larger or more important, as a leg to a
torso or a leaf to a tree.
Syn. addition, accessory, supplement.
ap·pen.dix (<J·pen'diks) n., ap.pen·dix·es or
ap.pen.di,ccs (a·jlCn'dil·s1lZ) p/.
1 An addition or app()nda~e. as of supple­
mentary matter at the end of a book. 2 A
slender wormlike structure, three to six
inches long, that protrudes from the large
intestine in tnan and in c(!rtain OUWT uninHllij~
Usage: lloth -plurals are acceptable for this
word, but appendixes is probahly more
common.
Syn. 1 addendum, postscript, sUPl'll'mellt.
ap·pli·ca.!ion (ap'Ji·ku'Bhun) n.
1 A substance that is placed on someone or
something, or the act of putting it there: lhe
applica.tion of furniture polish. 2 A written or
formal request, especially for a job, or the
act of making such a r<''1t!'''\.: S"blllil !IOU ..
appliC<ltion to the p",a<J?mcl manuger. 3 Em­
ployment for a special purpose or use; the
il1dllstrial applications of theoretiC<l! ehemistry.
4 Close attention to a tank, etc.; diligence:
application to one's sludirs.
ap·por·tion (J. por'shull) v.
To divide and give out proportionally or in
keeping with some rule: to apportion your
time between variolls tasks.-~ap.por/tion.ment
n.
Syn. allot, prorate, ,,!locale.
ap·prais.al (a·pra'zal) II.
1 An ollicial valuatiun as for sale taxation
etc.: appmisal of jewell:y. 2 An act 'of judging
the amount, quality, or wurth of s,,"willing:
LJeCUllse of his favorable apprai.al of the
secretary's skills, he hired her.
Syn. 1, 2 evaluation, estimate, assessment.
ap·praise (a·praz') v. ap·praised, ail.peals.jug
1 '1'0 make an omeial valuation of; set a l,ricc
or value on: If) appraise (I l,,,iuliIiY. 2 '1'0
estimate tbe amount, quality, or worth of: 10
appraise a currwt crop of no~el8 ,in a newspaper
review.-·ap.prais/a.ble adj., ap.prais'er 11.
Syn. 1 evaluate, value, assuss. 2 judge.
I appreciate your kind?<ess. 4 To become or
make more valuable: Rca! eslale (lJl1!reci(lit~
as a city gro1Vs...-ap,pre'ci.a'tion >t.
Syn. 1 esteem, cherish. 2 recognize, under·
stand:
Anl. 4 depreciate. cheapen.
ap.pre.hend (ap'ri.hend') v.
1 To capture or take into
The FBI apprehended the
understand the meaning of;
apprehend the difference bet wee"
-
-
.~
~
--.
~
.~
apprehensive
~
wrong. 3 To expect with anxiety; dread: to
~ apprehend the difficulties inherent in a new job.
ap.pre·hen.sive (ap'ra.hen'siv) adj.
~ Fearful concerning the future: apprehensive
about his next day's appointment with the
~ dentist.-ap'pre.hen'sive.ly adv., ap'lIre.
hen'sive·ness n.
Syn. anxious, worried, uneasy, afraid.
~ Ant. confldent, comp0J;ed, courageous, fear­
less.
~ ap·prise (a· prill') v. all·prised. ap.prls-Iug
To notify, as of some event: to lie apprised of
a friend's enayemc'Ilt.
~ Syn. Illfonn, tell, advise.
ap·pro·pri·ate (a-pro'pre·it wlj., a·pro'prtHit
v.) adj.; v. ap-pro.pri.ated, ap.pro-pri·at.ing
adj. Suitable or belonging, as to some persall,
~ circumstance, or place: Arc miniskirts
appropriate for women over fifty?
v. I To set apart for a particular use: Con­
~ gress appropriated funds for disaster areas.
2 To take for one's own use without permis­
sion: Don't appropriate someone else's
~ properly-ask and you may rer~ive.-ap.pro'­
pri.aLe.lr IIdv., ap.pro'pri.aLe.ness n.
~ SYll. adJ. proper, relevant. v. 1 allot. 2 steal.
Ant. adj. unfit, improper.
~ ap.pro.pri·a·tioll (a·pro'pre·a'"hdn) n.
I A sum of money allotted, as by legislation,
for a specified use, or the act of allotting: an
~ appropriation of millions for the spaceproYTaIil.
2 The act of taking possession, as of some­
.~ thing belonging to someone else: Iris daughter's
appropriation of his white shirf.
ap·prox.j.mate (a.prok'sa.mit adj" a.prok'sd'
~ mat v.) adj.; v. ap·lIrox·j·mated, ap.prox,j.
mat·jug
~ adJ, Nearly exact, accurate, or like: The
rCpoTtcr wrote down IIw approximale wurdin~
of t/U! speech.
~ v. To come near to; approach: !:lis illcoille
apllTo:cimates $10,000 allnually.-ap·prox'j·
mate·ly adv., ap·prox'i·ma'tioll n.
~ ap·ro·po!! (ap'ra·po') adj., adv.
adj. Suited to the time, place, or occasion;
~ Condolences are not apropos at a wedding.
adv. At the proper time or in the proper way:
He spoke quite apropos.
Usage: Apropos of is a phrase meaning u'ilh
reference to or in regard to: Apropos of our
~ next meeting, remember to bring a present for
an orphan.
.~ Syn. adj. pertinent, appropriate. adv. perti­
nently, appropriately.
Ant. adj. inopportune, irrelevant. adv. in~
~ opportunely, irrelevantly.
apt (apt) adj.
~ I Having a natural or habitual tendenc;(: An
idle person is apt to get into mischief. 2 (.tuick
to learn: }'our ability 10 read and remember
~ will make you an apt student. 3 Suitable, as to
some specific purpose or occasion: He made
apt comments on the previous speaker's
~ 8uggestions.-apl'ly adv" apt'ness n.
.~
Syn. I liable, likely. 2 intelligent, bright.
3 pertinent, relevant.
-~
arcade
Ant. I unlikely. 2 dull, incompetent. 3 im~
pertinent, irrelevant.
ap.tj.tude (ap't,,·t(y)611d) ",
Natural ability or capacity to learn or
become proficient: an aplitude for /J<!si,wss.
Syn. gift, genius, talent, faculty.
a·quar.i.um (a·k,war'ij·0m) n., a.quar.i,ums or
lI·quar·j·a (n·kwilr'e.a) Ill.
1 A tank, pond, or Ute 1i1H), for the (!xhilJilion
or study of aquatic animals or plants, 2 A
public building containing such an exhibition,
a·quat.ic (.. ·kwat'ik or ,,·kw(,t'ik) arlj,
I Living or growing; in or near wall~r: ~ka;
!lull" are a'l"atio birds. 2 l'"l'iol'llwd 011 ur in
water: lVater-skiing i$ an !Hlu(!tic sport.
Spelling tip: Remember that whenever q
appears in an English word it is always
followed by u,
Syn. 1 marine.
aq·ui.line (ak'wd·lln ur ak'wi}·Jin) adj.
I or or like an eagle. 2 Curving or hooked,
like all eagle's beak: an aquilinel/ose.
Syn. 2 bent, beaklike.
ar·a·ble (ar'a·bill) adj.
Cap"ble of being plowed or cultivated:
Rocky soil is usually '101 aralJlc.
ar.bi.ter (ar'bd·Lar) n.
I A chosen or appointed judge or umpire,
as between parties ill U dispute. 2 A person
or agency with absolute and final ]lower of
judgment or decision: lV/dei, magazine do yolt
consider the final arbiter of women's fW5hion$?
- ae'bl.tress n./cm.
SYll. I referee, mediator. 2 "uthority,
expert.
ar·bH·ra·menl (ar·bit'ra·mont) ?t.
I 'l'he act of deciding or judging as "n arbi­
ter; arbitration: submitting I/w labor dispute
to arbitrament. 2 The d<:tision of an arLiler.
Also ar·bU're.ment 11.
Syn. I mediation, conciliation. 2 "ward,
determination.
ae,bi.trar.y (ar'l"j·lrer'e) adj.
i Based merely on one's own opll11on,
judgment, prejudice, etc.: When he finally
learned all Ille facts he regretted hi, arbitmry
decision. 2 Bound by no law or rules: an
arbitrary dictator. ··-ar'bi.lrar'i.ly ,,,Iv., a.r'bi.
trur'i·nco<l n.
Syn. 1 capricious. 2 absolute, despotic.
Ant. 1 reasonable. 2 restricted, limited.
ar·bi·trate (ar'ba·tral) v. ar.bi.trat·cd, ar.bi.
tral.jug
1 'Po ael 01' dt',cidu as an arhitul': 10 nrt'firale
the dispnte beiwecu llcf) I/llLjuf world }Jowers.
2 To submit to or scHle a di'pute by
al·bitration.
Syn. 1 judge, umpire, referee,
arc Oirk) 11.
1 A part of a curve, especially a part of a
circle. 2 Something navmg the sllape of an
arch, bow, or similar curve: the (lrc of lire
rainbow.
ar· cade. (ur·k'lt!') n.
1 A series of arches with .uPPOl'tillg columns
or piers. 2 A roofed passageway or street,
539
ilfcalle articulate
especially one having shops, etc., opening cmnpaign was a series of arid, lIninforn",live
from it. speeches.
ar·cane (ar·kan') adj. Syn. I barren, parched. 2 monotonous.
Secret; hidden: The origin of rain was arcane a·ris·to·crat (a·ris'te·krat or ar'is·tdkrat') n.
to early Indians. A person who has the opinions, manners, or
Syn. mysterious, obscure.
ap,pearance of a privileged or upper class:
Ant. commonplace, familiar.
'1 here were few aris/acrats among Ihe early

ar·cha·ic (ar·kil'ik) adj. pioneers.-a.ris'lo.crat'ic adj., a·ris'lo·cral'·j.

I Belonging to an earlier periud and 110 cal.iy adv., ar'is.loc'ra.cy n.

longer in common use, as a word or phrase: Syn. noble.

"Methinka" is an archaic word. 2 Belonging Ant. peasant.

to a former time; antiquated: an exhibition a·rith·rne·tic (a·rith'mo·tik) n.

of archaic poltery.
Spelling tip: Remember the silent h.
numbers, mainly in addition, subtraction,
Syn. 1 old-fashioned, obsolete. 2 primitive,
division, and multiplication.
ancient.
ar·ma·da (ar,ma'd,,) II.
Ani. 1 current, new. 2 modem.
I A fleet of warships; "peeitic,diy, the
ar.che·ol.o.gy (ar'ke·ol',,·je) n.
'l'he study of history through examination 01
the remains of early human cultures as
discovered chiefly in excavations.-ar'che.
ol'o.gist n., ar'che·o.log'!.cal adj.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
archaeology.
ar.che·lype (ar'ka·tip) n.
A first model, form, or pattern from which
others are derived or copied: Daniel Boone
was the archeti/pe of A.merican frontiersmen.
Syn. ideal, prototype.
ar·chi·pel·a·go (ar'k,,·pel'a·go) n., ar·chi·pcl·
a·goes or ar.chi·pe!.a·gos p!.
1 A group of many islanus: '1'he Aleutian
Islands are an archipelago off Ihe Alaskan
coasl. 2 A sea with many islands in it: The
Aegean Sea is known as "the Archillelago."
ar·chl·tect (ar'ka·tekt) n.
A perSOll who desigI).s anu draws up the
plans for buildings.-ar'chj.lec'ture n.
ar·chives (ar'krvz) 11.1'1.
1 A place where public records and historical
papers are kept: Only authorized personnel
are allowed in the archives. 2 Such records and
papers: The Jefferson archives became the
property of the university.
arc·tic (ark'lik or ar'tik) n .• adj.
11. 1 (Usually capital A) The region arounu
the North Pole. 2 Usually pl. Warm, water­
proof overshoe.
adj. 1 (Usually capital A) Of or living in the
North Pole region: Polar bears are Arctic
animals. 2 Extremely cold; freezing: 1'lw
soldiers had to endure the arctic temperatures.
Spelling tip: Remember the two c's in this
The study or technique of working with
Armada, the fieet sent by Spain to battle the
English in 1588. 2 A large number 01 things,
especially moving things such as vehicles: An
armada of tanks led lhe attack.
ar·rni·stice (ar'ma·tltis) n.
An agreement to stop lighting for a short
time: D1LTing the armistice the two sides held
peace talks.
Spelling tip :·Note the i in the secolld syllable.
Syn. truce.
ar·o·rnat·ic (ar'a·mat'ik) adj.
Having a sweet ur spicy smell: an aromatic
blend of tobacco.
ar'raign (,,·nln') v.
To call into coun to answer to a charge or
accusation: The prisoner will be arraigned
lomorrow.-ar.raign'menl n.
Spelling lip: Remember the silent (l.
ar·rant (ur'ant) adJ.
Out-and-out; thorough (used in a negative
sense): arrant nonsense; arrant fool.
Syn. downright, utter.
ar·riv·al (a·rl'val) n.
1 The act of arriving: lVe uwaitut his (lrrival,
2 A person or thing that arrives: lVdcome the
new arrivals in your c011l'lnunity.
ar·ro.gant (ar',,·gcmt) adj.
Excessively proud and ovcrb(,aril1g, 01'
characterized by such excetlsivc pride: 1'l/e
dictator was WI arrogant man.
Syn. insolent, pre:mmpLuolls, uisdaillful.
Alit. diflident, humble, meek.
ar·ro·gate (ar'a,gaL) v.
'1'al", or elairu unjllotly: The ciwinna)t
arrogated power to himself from tile slart.
Syn. assume, usurp, appropriate.

word. Ani. delegate.

ar·dor (ar'dolr) n. ar·U·de (ar'ti·kall Ii.

Strong emotion or enthusiasm: lie spoke of
his cuuntry with the ardor of a lrue patriot.
Syn. passion, fervor, zeal.
ar·du·ous (ur'j60·es) adj.
Difficult to do or achieve: Climbing a moun­
tain is an arduo·us task. . SIlclling lip: De sure to put an i in this word.
Syn. hard, strenuous, laborious.
Ant. easy, facile.
ar·id (ar'id) adj.
1 Without moisture; dry: the arid waste­
lands of Nevada. 2 Without interest; dull: The
J An inuividuat item: an article vf ctuthillY·
2 A literary compusition: a good article on
bridge. 3 In the English language, the words
a, an, and the, used to make a noun detinitt:
(the chair) or indefinite (a chair, an ottoman).
Syn. 1 piece, object.
ar.tic.u.late (ar·tik'y,,·lit adj., ar·tik'ya,lat :
adj.; v. ar·tic·u·lat·ed, ar.!ic.u·!al·ing
adj. I Able to speak, especially havir.;; .:
power to express thoughts clearly: -'.: -­

54(}
~-~ ..

.~
artifact asseverate
~
.~ Lulher Kiny, Jr" lVas ail urticulale defender position, etc.: There ure many aspirants fur
of humau rig hIs. 2 Using clear and distinct each West Puint appuintmenl.
words or syllables: 100 shocked for articulale 8YII. candidate.
~ 81leceh.
v. 1 To speak dislinctly: too frightened 10
as·pi.ra.lioll (as'pv'fli'sbun) II.
Great hope or high ambition: liis lifelong
articulate. 2 To say or tell in words: to
~ aSlJimtion was to visit his /wmdmld.

---,

.
arliculate your feelings.
ar.tHact (ar/ta·fakt) n .
An object·~~m;ually a simple one such as a
as· sail (a·sal /) v.
1 To aHack violently, as by wonlB or blows:

---,
tool, ornament, or container-made by
human work: Archeologists discovered crude
Indian shovels and other simple artifacls.
The mayor was assai/ed 'Wilh every form of
ridicule and abuse. 2 Tu approach a diiliculLy,
task, etc., with lhe intent of mastering it: She
assaile,l the dirly windows.
ar·n·lice (ar/ta·fig) n.
Syn. ) a~~alllt, bombard. 2 tackh,.

~ A sly or clever trick: lie usd evay arl'ijice tv

Ant. 1 aid, uphold.

conceal his motive.

as·sas·sin (,,·sas/in) 11.

~ 8yn. device, wile, ruse.

ar·ti·san ( ar/ta·zan) n.

A murderer, especially a fanatic or a person

hired to kill another: ABBassi,," have killed
A trained or skilled workman: 1 ",/ian articlans

~ produce luvely silver jewelry.

fOlLr U.S. Pr((cli<leuls. as,sal::l'~i'lla'tion H.

Spelling tip: Hcmmnber to pUl fom s's in this

8yn. craftsman.
word.

~ as·bes·tos (as·bes/tds or az·bes/tas) iI., adj.

8yn. killer, slayer.

11. A grayish-white mineral that will not

as·scm.bly ("'sem/hle) II., as.:;cm·blics pI.

~ burn.

adj. Woven of or containing lhi~ mineral:

1 A group of persolls who have md Logether:

---,
asbestos shinyles.

Spelling lip: Put a diffenmt vowel in each

syllable-~a, e, o.
un assembly vf Ihe tuwllspcupie. 2 The act of

ntLill~ together the individual parts of a

macinne, etc.: the lnUlUlfuc/ure and assombly

of automobiles.

~ l1$·cellt (,,·s~nt/) 11.

The act of risinll or climbing: the usc!'"t vf the
Spelling lip: Note the " in tile Ilrst two

sYllables. allli note how the spdHu;; chanl(cs

rock.t (I" it left ltd lal!1lch parl. for tlw plural.

~ as·cer·taill (as'ar.tan / ) v. Syn. 1 meoLing, galherill,;, assembl:!gc,

To find out for certain; make sure of: all muslering.

investigation to (1~certain Ihe facts. as·senl (o,senV) v., n.

8yn. discover.
v. Agree or consent: The eUIIt/liitln; tlsswlcd to
as·cet·ic (l).set/ik) n., adj.
the rtquesl.
n. One who chooses to live without comfort
n. Agreemcnt or COlltient: 111' 'indicate,i his
and pleasure, usually for religious reasons.
aSBent to Ihe propos"l.
adj. Severely simple: lIe 'tel a lonely, asec/ic
as·serl (",~urtl) I'.
exi"tence."'as,cel·i-cilSm (a·set/,,·siz'um) n.
I State positively: The ciwirmcw 'lSscried liwt
Syn. adj. ausLere, self-denying, rigid.
the hearing would be held in .March. 2 Insist on;
Ant. n. sybarite.
defend: 7'cen~ugers assert their ii!(lC)lwciellc1' in
a.sep·tic (a·sep/lik Qr a·sep/tik) adj. various ways.
Free from infeclion~causing bacteria: Ster­ as·Bess (.).","') v.
ili.ed in8trumcnt~ arc aseptic. 1 To B(:t u value 011 pHJpcrty for laxation
Syn. clean
purp0ses: 'I'llCit huuse is tlssess(d at '$N.,OOO.
Ant. dirty, polluted.
.2 To charge with a tax, nne, or other pay··
a·skanee (,).skans / ) adv. menl, us a person or property: Each union
I WiLh diHlrwlt: Fun",," tlJiJk ".kwIC" at citll 'UH'/H/n![ /1)(1,'1 u:;:H'mH'(l .~tO P(,T nWHlll. :1 11'0 ~·)('l

s['ieker". 2 With a side glance: She louked lJw arnoullL oi t us u t ax, Hue, elc. ,1 (1'0 dl:t,cr~

askance allhe mirror as she hurried by. mine the importance, size, or value of: Vulers

as·per.sioll (d·spur/zhan Or a·spur'shan) n. should assess each candidale's fJu(lliJicaliuns.~·

A false or damaging report or remark: Do not IIs·sess /menl n.

caBt aspersions on his Q()url name. Spelling lip: Notice thaL this word has four

8'S,
Syn. slander, defamallon.

Ant. praise.
Syn. 1 appraise, estimale.
as.phalt (as/folt or us/falt) H.
A dark, tarlike substance mixed with rock or
sand to make paving or roofing material.
as.phyx·i·ate (as·fik'slHi.L) v. as.phyx.j.al·ed,
as.phyx·j·llt.ing
Suffocate; Two firemen were asphyxiated by
the smoke.··-as.phyx'l.a/lion n.
as·pir·ant (<l'splr/<lnt or as'par·anl) 11.
A person who tries to achieve ho nors, high
as·set (us 'et) 1'.
I OfI en pI. An ilum of properLy, as uf a
corpurationl nlc. lri~ a8i:wl~ indade a
jler:.;on,
touse alld car. 2 Any valuable qualily or
thing: Brains and wnbilion are great assets in
busillcss.
8yn. 2 allvanluge, benefit.
as·Bev·er·ale (d·oev/j.ral) v. n~,s"v·er'ul,ed,
a~·Bev·er·at·ing
'1'0 allirm or declare emphalically or soleml!­
assiduous
Iy: '1'lIe lawyer asseverated that his client was
take on or adopt (an aspect or characteristic):
innocent.-as·sev'er·a'tlon n.
'1'he stain on the wa!! assumed the shape of a
Syn. allege, assert, aver, protest.
dragon. 3 To undertake, as an office or duty:
Ant. deny, doubt, demur, dispute.
10 assume responsibility for another person.
as·sid·u·ous (a.sij'60·as) adj.
Showing or marked by constant effort and
attention: an assiduous student; assiduous
research.-as·sid'u·ous.ly adv., as·sid'u·ous.
ness n.
as· sign (".sin') v.
1 To set apart; designate: Monday is
assigned as washday. 2 To appoint to a post
or duty: The reporter was assigned 10 Ihe
slory. 3 To allot as a task: The teacher
assigned Iwentv. pages of reading. 4 To
ascribe or attribute: Jea/oMY 'was assiglled
as the murder motive.-as.sign'ment n.
as·sim·i·lale (a·sim'a·liit) v. aa·sim·i·lat·ed,
as.sim.i.lat.ing
1 To take into and make part of the body:
Milk is easily assimilaled. 2 To receive into
the mind and understand: to assimilale Ihe
rules of grammar. 3 To make or to become
alike or similar: to assimilale one's way of
speaking to that of one's friends.-as.sim'i·
la'tion n.
Spelling tip: Remember that assimilate has
two s's.
Syn. 2 digest. masler, learn.
as·go·d·ale (;Ho's(h)iHlt V.; os6's(h)!i-it n.,
adj.) v. as·so·ci·at·ed, as.so.ci.at.ing; n., adj.
v. 1 To bring into company with another or
with others. as in friendship or partnership:
to asaociatc 'with the neiyllbor•. 2 To connect
mentally: to associale Ihe smell of baking
bread wilh one's childhood.
n. One who is frequently in the company of
another: They were associa/e" in the sallie
office for twenty years.
adj. ! Joined with another or others in a
common pursuit or office: associate directors
of a hosptla1. 2 Having lower status or priv­
ileges: an associate profcosor.
Spelling tip: Although the third syllable is
IIs·lule ("'st(y)(fuL') ",Ij.
pronounced .ee or shee, remember that it is
Having or coming from a ~hrewd, dever
spelled ci.
mind: Psychiatrists are astule observers of
Syn. v. 1 fraternize, mix. n. companion, co­
people. The drama critic rnade a"tute cow­
worker. friend, ally. partner.
ments.- lls.lule'ly ode.• as·tute'neS!< n.
Ant. v. I reject, snub, ignore. n. rival,
Syn. ~harp, kH'n.
stranger enelny, antagoniBL.
j Ant. stupitl. uninLelltgenL.
as·so·ci·a·tion (a.so's(h)e·a'shan) n.
1 The act of joining with others. 2 Fellow­
ship: We enjoyed our long association wilh
the Brown~. 3 ·The connection or relation of
ideas, feelings. etc.: the association of June
with weddings. 4 A group of persons united
for some common purpose: all (ls$Ociation of
lawyers.
Syn. 2 friendship, fellowship, company.
alliance. 4 society, club, league.
as·suage (a·swaj') v., as·Buaged, as·suag·ing
1 To make less harsh or severe: Time will
assuafle his grief. 2 To satisfy: The cold spring
water assuaged his thirst.
as·sume (a'860m') v. as'Bumed, as.Bum.jug
1 To take for granted; suppose to be a fact;
I assume Ihat he will pay back the money. 2 To
542
atrocity
4 To pretend, feign: The culprit assumed an
air of innocence.
Syn. 1 imagine. beJieve. 3 shoulder, accept.
4 sham, counterfeit.
as.Bump.!ioll (a·sump'shan) n.
1 The act of taking over: assum1ltiul! of the
vy
dtllies ihe mayor-elecl. 2 Something that is
taken for granted: The ancient as>lumption
Ihat the 'Durld was l/at.
as·ter·isk (as'tar.isk) n.
A starlike figure (*) used in printing or
writing to indicate footnotes, references, or
something that has been left out.
as·tcr·aid (us'tJ·rohl) n., adj.
n. Any of seven'! humlred Sl1laU pIn nets
between 11,'1 urs and Jupiter.
adj _ Shaped lihe a star.
aslh·ma (az'mil) n.
A chronic canuition of the bronchial tubes
that makes breathing difiicult and brings on
wheezing and coughing.-asth.mat.ic (az­
mat'ik) 71., adj.
as·trill.gent (a·strin'jont) n., adj.
n. A substance such as alum that draws body
tissues together. It is sometimes used to stop
bleeding and to tighten the skin.
adj. 1 Having the ability to draw body
tissues together: aH a"frillljCn( lution for thc
skin. 2 \lamh; stern: lIis "'trilluntl lWT:l()ltaf
criticisms uii",wl"d itis friend:;. as.trin'gell.
cy n., as.lrin'gent.!y ad•.
Syu. adj. 2 strict, sharp, biting.
Ant. adj. 2 gentle, kindly.
aii·tro·naut (a~'tru'liol) 11.
A person who lra vels in space.
Etymology: .4slronaut comes from two
Greek roots, nautes meaning sailor and astro
meaning (among the) stars.
at·om ( at'um) 11.
1 The smallest uniL of all element that is
capable of existing alone or in comtlination,
and that cannot be changeti or destroyed 111
any chemical reaction. 2 A very small
quantity or particle; the least bit: She
doesn't lwu; tlil ulOIif. of corn-mOlL sense.
Syn. 2 hit, iota. fragment, modicum.
a·true.i·ly (.J·tros'Q·te) 11., a·trod·tie>! 1'1.
1 A very evil or horrible act: atrocities CUlli­
mitted against civilians in wartime. 2 Cruelty
or evil: the jailer's atrocity in dealing with /.. ,'
prisoners. 3 Informal Something in ver,' ~c ~
taste: FIer feathered purple Iwi !L'l!~ ,
(1b~()lute atrocily.
Syn. I crime, outrage. 2 infamy, vilL:,.'
Ant. 2 kindne:;s, mercy, humanity.
-
~
~
~
~
~
atrophy austerity
~
at·ro·phy (at'ra·fe) 11. at.To.phled, at·To.phy· to establish correctness: The accounting firm
~ jng; n., at'To'phles pI.
v. '1'0 waste away or cause to waste away or

audited the financial statement.

n. An examination of accounts. as of u
.~ decline: Prolonged bed rest will cause lite
business or other organization, to establish
muscles 10 atrophy. Boredom will atrophy Ihe
correctness: a bank audit.
mind.
au·gcr (o'gar) n.
~ n. 1 A wasting away or withering of the body

or any of its parts: the atrophy oj a p(lralyzed

A tool for boring into wood or into the

ground.
arm. 2 A stoppage of any growth or develop­

~ ment: tlte atrophy oj the ancient Roman

aught (ot) n.
-..,
Empire.

Syn. v. weaken, shrink, wane, deteriorate.

n. 1 weakening, deterioration. 2 decline,

The figure zero; naught; nothing.
Spelling lip: Aught may also be spelled ought.
aug·ment (oIP11cnt') v.
'ro makt; or becom.e grea ler as in gize.
deterioration, decay, crumbling. 1

~ at·ta·che (at'a·sha') n.
number, or amount: He augmented his small
income by driving a taxi on weekends.
A person officially attached to a diplomatic

Syn. increase enlarge.

~ mission or staff for a specific assignment: a

military attache.

Ant. decrease, reduce.

at·ten.dant (a·ten'dant) n., adj. au·gur (6'gur or 6'gy"r) n., v.
n. One who serves or accompanies; the
n. A person who foretells the future.
queen's retinue oj attendants.
v. To be a sign Or omen of: lIer good nalaer
adj. Accornpanying: a war and its altelldant
augurs UJelallg popularity.
destruction.
Syn. n. soothsayer. prophet.
Syn. n. follower, servant. adj. associated,
au·gu:;t (o·guoll') adj.
connected.
I Inspiring awo or reverence; imposing: tl,c
at·tor.ner (a·tur'ne) n. august beauty oj tile 01,1 cathedral. 2 Of high
A persoll empowered by another to act in rank or birth: an allgustjustice oj the Supreme
his stead; especially, a lawyer: Consult an Caurl.-au.gust'ly ".lv., au.gust'ness 11.
allorney about a libel suit. SYI1. 1 mujesLie, stately, awesollle. 2 hon(;red,
Syn. advocate, counsel. eminent.
at·trib·ute (a·trib'yoot v., at'ra·by60t n.) v. auld lang sync (01<1' lang Sin' or 61d' lang zln')
at·trib·ut·ed, at.trlb·ut.ing; n. Literally, old long sillce; long ago.
v. To consider as belonging to, resulting from, Etymology: .lluld lony SYliC is a Scottish
or caused by: to attribute wisdom to old age. expression popularized by l.be well-known
~ n. 1 A quality or characteristic of a person or song of the same name. which is often SUllg at
reunions, New Year's Eve parties, etc.
thing: Energy is an attribute oj childhood. 2 In
~ art or myth(Jlo9Y A distinctive mark or
symbol: Wing~d heels are an attribute oj the
au na·tu·rel (0 na·lU·rel')
1 Plainly cooked; ungarnbhed: potatoes
Roman Uod Mercury. 8errt:d (lU "aturel. 2 In the natura] condilion;
~ Syn. v. ascribe, impule. especiuily, in Lhe nude: to gu swill111dllY aU
at·tri·tion (a.trish'an) n. naturel.
~ l A gradual wearing down or weakening: a Etymology: "-tit nature! is a French expres­

.--...,
war oj attrition; the attrition oj a nation'8
economy. 2 A rubbing or grinding down. as by
friction: the attrition oj rocks by ylaciers.
sion that literally means "naturally" ur "to
the life."
au·ral (or' ')1) adj.
a·typ·i·cal ( Hip'i·kill) adj. Pertaining to the ear or to tbe sense of
~ Not typical; differing from the usual type: hearing: Dugs have kew aural abilitlJ.~-au'­
ral·lyadv.
Hippies exhibit atypical behavior. He had an
atypical c~se oj chickenpox.-·a.typ'i.cal.)y Usage: Do not confuse ({ural with oral, wbich
~ ad•. means of or having to do with the mouth ur
Syn. unusual, irregular, anomalous.
with speech.
~ Ant. usual, regular, typical.

au·dac.i·ty (o·das',,·te) 11.

au·ri·cle (6r'i·kal) n.
1 Boldness; daring: The Apaches were Jaliluus
~ Jor their skill and audacity as warrior •.
2 Disregard of decency or courlesy: She had
the audacity /0 ask how much 1 Iwd paid Jor
my dress.
Syn. 1 bravery. 2 impudence, brazenness,
nerve.
au·di·ble (6' da.bal) ad;.
'Loud enough to be heard: A microphone made
her voice audible 10 Ihe crowd.
Spelling tip: Remember the i in this word.
au·dit (o'dit) v., n.
v. To make an official examination of the
accounts of a business or other organization
lOne of the upper "hambers of the heart.
2 'file outside part of the ear.
aus.pi.ees (os'p,,·sez) n.»/.
A guiding or favoring inl1uence; ~ponsorship:
Tlte park was built Ulltier 1/", ut(spiceB oj the
city government.
Syn. palronage.
aus·ter·i·ty (6·ster',Hll) n., aus·ler·j.tie>l pI.
1 Sternness and severity, as of conduct and
appearance: the austerity oj tile Puritans.
2 U anal/y pI. Acts or practices of self-denial:
During a war people l,mst endure 1IIallY anster­
ities.
Syn. 1 strictness, harshness. 2 rigor, hardship.
Ant. 2 indulgence, pleasure.

543
 ~

~
authentic awry
~
au·lhen·tic (iHhen'tik) adj. av·a·ri·cious (av',,·rish'as) adj. ~
1 Genuine; not counterfeit: an authentic Greedy of gain: lIe was an avaricious

painting by Rembrandt. 2 Trustworthy; collector of paintings.·--av'a.ri'cious·)y adv.,

reliable: The scholar compiled an authentic av'a·ri'cious.ness 71~ ~

book on American Indian lore.-au·then'ti· Syn. acquisitive, covetous.

cal.iyadD. Ant. generous, liberal.

Syn. 1 real, true. 2 accurate, authoritative. ~

a·venge (a.venj') V., a·venged, a.veng.ing
au·then·tj·cate (o·then'ti·kat) v. au·then.li· To inflict punishment in retaliation for an ~
eat·ed, au.then·ti·cat·ing injury or offense: He avenged his brother's

1'0 show or prove to be true or genuine: an lIwrder.

authenticated tapestry of the Iwelfth cerlturll. Syn. pay back, revenge. ~

au·lhor·i·la·tive (a·thOr'a·ta'tiv) adj.
} Possessing or coming from proper author­
ity; official: an authoritative decision, an
authoritative book. 2 Exercising or showing
authority: j'he warden spoke in an author ita­
live voice.-·au.thor'j.ta'tive.ly adv.
au·to.bi.og·ra·phy (o'ta·bi·og'ra·fe or o'ta.
b~·og'ra·fe) n., au.to.bi.og.ra·rhies pl.
A person's written account 0 his own life.
au·toc·ra·cy (o·tok'ra·se)rI.• au.toc·ra·cies pl.
Absolute rule by one person, or a state so
ruled: Athens became an autocracy.-au·to·
era! (o'ta·krat) n., au'to·crat'jc or au'io·crat'­
Ant. forbear, pardon, forgive.
a·vert (d.vurt') v. ~
1 'fo tUrn away: Slw avcrlnt Iter "!II'S. 2 To
ward off: '1'hey avcr(l:d the dallller.--a.veri'ed.
Iy adv., a·yert'j.ble or a.yert'a·ble adj. ~
Syn. 2 prevent, avoid, escape.
a·vi·ar.y (a've,er'e) n., a·vi·ar·ies pl. ~
A large cage or enclosure for live bird".
av·id (av'jd) adj. ~
1 Eager; enthusiastic: He was an avid football
fan. 2 Greedy: The whole family was avid for
success. ~
Syn. 2 gluttonous, ambitious.

l,clIl adj., au'to.crat'j·cal.ly adv.

Syn. tyranny, dictatorship.
au·tom·a·ton (o·tom'a·ton or o·tom'a·tan) n.
1 A self-operating machine. 2 A living thing
that is or appears to be mechanical in its
actions: H? was an automaton when deaUrig
cards.
au·lon·o·mous (o·ton'a·mas) adj.
Ant. } indifferent, uninleresteu. ~
ay·o·ca,do (av'a·kii'do or a'va·kii'do) n., avo
o·ca.dos pl. ~
The pear-shaped fruit of a West Indian tree,
havin~ a green skin and fleshy, edible pulp
encloslIlg a single large pit. ~
Syn. alligator pear.
av·o·ca·tion (av'a·ka'sh,m) n.

Independent; self-governing: The former A casual or occasional occupation: Jier

colony became an auton07nOUB state. avocation was collecting stamps.

Syn. seJ(-determining, free. Syn. hobby, diversion, pastime.

au·top-sy (o'top·se or o'tap·s~) n., au·lop.sies aY·oir.du·pois (av'ar·da·poiz') n.

pI. } The system of weights in the U.S. and

Examination of a human body after death, Britain based on the pound of sixteen

especially when ordered by a coroner. ounces. 2 Informal Weight; corpUICl"'(>: ller

aux·il·ia·ry (og·zil'yar.{l or og·zil'ar·!':) adj., n.; figure was padded w-ith considerable avoirdu­
aux·i1·\a·ries n.pl. pois.

adj. Furnishing aid; subsidiary; supplemen­ Syn. 2 fat, bulk, flesh, adiposity.

tary: He kept an auxiliary set of keys in his Ant. 2 leanness, thinness, trimness.

briefcase. a·yow (a·vou') v.

n. Someone or something that aids or helps;

To assert openly as fact; admit: He avowed

assistant.
his part in the crime.-a·vow'al rI.

Syn. adj. reserve, spare, extra.

Syn. declare, acknowledge, assert.

a.vant·garde (a.vant'gard'; French a·viin'­ An!. disavow, disown, deny.

gard') n., adj. l1w·rul (6'fa\) adj.

n. The group, especially in the arts, regarded 1 Informal Exceedingly bad or unpleasant:

as being the most experimental: Op art and an awflt! haircJo. 2 'ferrifying; dreadful: the

pop art were the rage among the avant'garde.

adj. Having to do with the bold, new, or awful destruction of a tornado.

experimental: New novels oJten exhibit avant­ Spelling tip: If you write awe + full, your

yarde tendencies: spelling will lw awful.

Etymology; In French, this word literally

Syn. 2 appalling, horrible, terrible.

means aavallce guard.

awk·ward (ok'ward) «<ij.

Syn. adj. innovative, radical, far-out,

Ungraceful; embarrassing; difficult or incon­

extreme.
venient: an awkzvanl l1Wl!Clft.Cnt; an llwkward

Ant. adj. conservative, old-faijhloncd, rou­

situal'ion; an awkward position." awk'wanj·

tine, traditional.
Iy adv., awk'ward·ness n.

Bv.a.rice (av'a·ris) n. a·wry (a·rl') adj., adv.

Passion for accumulating riches; greed: Some 1 'I'oward one side: Your W'p is aiLT}

politicians are motivated by avarice. 2 Wrong; out of til" right courso: Our pi,-­
Syn. covetouijness, acquisitiveness. plans went awry because of the rain.

54~

--
 ~
~
......,
~
~ axiom
~
ax·i·om (ak'se-am) n.
.~ A self-evident or universally recognized
truth: It is an axiom that nature abhors a
. ~ vacuum.
Syn. theorem, law, principle, truism.
ax.i·o.mat·ic (ak'se·a,mat'ik) adj.
.~ 1 Self-evident: It is axiomatic that two things bal·ance (bal'ans) n.; v. bal·anced, bal,ane.jng
cannot occupy the same place at the same lime.
~
2 Full of axioms; aphoristic: a collection of
short, axiomatic 8ayings,~ax'i.o.mat'i·cal
adj., ax'j.j).mat'j.cal.ly adv.
.~ a.zal.ea (a·zal'ya) n.
A shrub having showy red or orange flowers.
~ Spelling tip: Each syllable has an a in it, bUi
remember to put an e before the final a.
az.ure (azh'ar) n., adj.
-4I!!!!!!J Sky blue: His favorite color was azure.
Delphiniums have azure flowers. _______ attempl.
-=~::.:.;.;..;.;.;.==.:.;;.:==.;.:.,::.;,;;,;;.;;;..:.:
~ n. 1 A hindrance, defeat, ur dillappointment:
B Timidity is a balk to succ,:s". 2 In haseball, an
~ bab·ble (bab'al) v. bab·bled, bab·bUng; n.
~. 1 To make inarticulate sounds': the baby
~ babbling in its playpen. 2 'fo talk foolishly:
She babbled on abollt Iwr genteel upbringing.
S To murmur or ripple: The stream babbled
~ along.
n. 1 Inarticulate sounds. 2 Foolish lalk. 3
~
Murmuring or rippling sound.~bab'bler 11.
Syn••• , n. 1. 2 prattle, chatter.
bac·ca·lau·re·ate (bak'o·16r'(!.it) n.
~ 1 A bachelor's degree. 2 An address to a
graduating class at commencement.
~ ba·cil·lus (ba,sil/as) n.• ba·cil.li (ba·ail'il pI.
Any of a class of rod-shaped bacteria, gome
of which cause diseases such as tuberculosis
-~
or tetanus:
bac:te.ri·a (bak·tir'e,a) ?l.p!.
~ One-celled microorganisms that ranlie in
their effect on other life from benefiCIal to
lethal.
~ Usage: Bacterium, the singular form of
bacteria, is almost never used except possibly
~ by biologists. Bacteria should take a plural
verb, except to designa te a class, in which
case a singular verb is used: Bacteria are
everywhere-in .the air we breathe and in the
food we eat. This bacteria is a new type.
badg.er (bai'or) n., v.
71. A "mali, burrowing animal with short,
cia w-toed legs.
v. To nag at or harass: He badgered me into
going to a football game wit" him.
Syn. v. pester, pressure, irritate, hound.
baf.fle (lJuf'"I) v. bar,lIed, baf·l!inli; n.
v. To confuse, bewilder, or perplex: The Url­
s(lll'cd crime batfletl Ihl' j)O/i,,<?
11. A screen or partition used to cuntrol or
~ hinder a flow, as of fluids or sound waves.
bag·a·ielle (bag'a'tel ' ) n.
1 A trifle: He would not accept thanks for what
~ he called a mere bagatelie. 2 A short musical
composition, often for piano.
~ baj·Ji·wick (ba'la·wik) n.
1 The jurisdiction o! a bailiff. 2 A person's
own field of concern or scope of knowledge:
~
~
~
banquet
Planning the food badge! is my 1Oife'3 buili­
wick, not mine.
baize (baz) n .
A loosely woven cloLh, usually l1nished tu
resemble green felt and used for table
coverings, etc.
n. 1 An instrument for weighing; scale. 2 A
stute of equilibrium or poise: Sh" lost hi'r
bet/cHLce. 3 Hemainder: They ole some of the
fooll and gave away Ihe balance,
v, 'l'o bring into or \{cep in equilibrium: The
juggleroa/anced the cane un his nose.
balk (bok) v., II.
v. 1 To stop short and refuse to proceed or
take action: The donkey balked when he saw
the steep cliff. 2 'l'o render unsuccessful;
thwart: Quick police action balked the robbery
illegal motion made by the pitcher,
Spelling lip: Be sure to write the I in this
word, but do not pronounce it.
bal,lis·tics (b"'lis'tiks) ".pl.
The science concerned with the motion of
proiectiles and missiles, such as bullets and
rocl<ets: The police laboratory specializes ill
ballislico.
bal·loon (b.J,lo-on') n., t.
n. 1 A large, airtight bag lhat riscs and Iltmts
in the air when inflated with a gas lighter
than air. 2 A small rubber bag that can be
inflated and used as a toy.
v. To swell out so as to resemllie a balluun:
'l'he sail ballooned in lite wind.
Spelling tip: DoulJle the I and the o.
bal-Iot (bal'at) n"v.
n. The piece of paper used in casting a
secret vote, or the system of voLin!; in this
way: Governmenls slwuld be ciw II UC(t by the
ballot, not the bullet.
v. To vote or decide by ballot: Citizens will
begin balloting today.
balm (bam) n.
1 A salve ur ointment made uf aromatic
resins exuded by certain trees. 2 Anything
that heals or soothes; lIer words were a balm
to his irLjllred feelings.
Spelling till: No!e that tbis word haH a Hihmt
I, a~ in cutm and psalm.
ba·nal (bii.'nal or ba·nal') "dj.
Meaningless from overuse; trite: llis spcec"
on brotherly IOIIe, llclivcred at the peak of the
riot, H(}uwlcd buwd {nut (!Itt vJ jtlll("('. bl.L'llal·
!·iy (b0.nal'J>lC) 11.
bunk.rupt.cy (bangk'rupt'se or bangle'rd!'·se)
n., lHlllk,rupi.cics pI.
A state in which a jJerson is declared unable
to pay his d~bts, and his remaining as"cis are
divided Ul110ng: his creditors; finandal ruin.
ban.quet (bang'kwit) n., v.
n. A feast or ceremonial dinner, often in­
cluding speeches.
v. 'fo ent<>rtuin at a baIH!Uet: We banqaeted
our vi"itor~. 2 To eat wd: We b"ltCludeit 011
caviar.~ban'quet.er n.
545
banter
ban·ter (ban'tar) 11., v.
n. Playful ridicule: He was amused by their
banler about his late arrit'al.
v. 'fa tease or exchange remarks in good
humor: The wits at the purty were bantering
with each other.
The British word for a member of the legal
Syn. n. badinage, raillery, repartee, riposte.
profession who argues cases in court: dis­
v. josh, twit.
bap·tize (bap·tiz' or bap'tIz)v. bap·tized,
bap.Hz.iug
1 To immerse a person in or sprinkle' with
water as a symbol of admission to Christi­
anity. 2 '1'0 give a first name to a person as
part of the baptismal ceremony: He was
~
baptized Rober/.
Syn. 2 chrbten.
bar (bar) v. barred, bar· ring
1 To fasten or secure with or as with a piece
of wood, metal, etc.: Bar the door. 2 '1'0
obstruct or hinder: The pulice barred the wuy.
3 To exdude or keep out: Women are barred
Jrom entering the men's grill.
Spelling tip: Before adding a suffix beginning
with a vowel, double the final consonant 01
all one-"yllable words ending in a single
consonant preceded by a single vowel.
Syn. 1 bolt. lock. 2 barricade. 3 blackball.
Alit. 1 unlock, unbar, unfasten. 2 open.
a permit, allow, welcome.
barb (barb) n.
1 Any sharp point that ~ticks out and back
from a main point, as on an arrow. fishhook,
spear, etc. 2 Pointedness or sting, as of wit;
also, a stinging remark: attacking political
candidates with personal barbs.
bar·ba.rous (bar'bGr·as) adj.
Unci vilized; savagely cruel: the ba rbaroHs
treatment of the prisoners.
Syn. savage, coarse, brutal.
bare (bar) adj. bar·er, bar·es!; v. bared,
bar.ing
adj. 1 Without clothing or covering; naked.
2 Without the usual furnishings or equip­
ment; empty: a bare roolll. a Unadorned,
plain: the bare truth. 4 Just sufficient; mere:
the bore necessities.
v. To make uncovered or lay open: to bare OllC'S
v. To struggle against opposition: ~"lIle
l/Cad; 10 bare one's hcart.-bare'ness n.
cause.
Spelling tip: The silent e that ends this word
Syn. n. conflict. v. fight, contend.
is dropped before adding a sufTix beginning
bau·ble (bo'bill) n.
with a vowel.
A worlhl~Hs, showy tl'inket.
Syn. adj. 1 nude, undressed. 2 unlurnisheu.
Syn. gewgaw, gimcrack, knieltknack.
a unembellished. 4 absolute, stark, sheer.
bay·ou (bi'OO) 11.
Ant. adj. 1 dressed, clothed. 2 full, well­
stocked. 3 embellished.
A marshy inlet or outlet 01 a lake, river, etc.
ba·roque (bv·rok') adj.
I. Of or characteristic of the art and architec­
ture of the seventeellth century, which was
elaborately ornate and had curved rather
than straight lines: The building's barO(llle
style looked out oj place in the midst of mudern
buildings. 2 Irreltular in shape (said of pearl~).
Etymology; ThiS word is derived from the
Portuguese bnrroco, which means rough or
imperfect pearl.
bar· rage (b.)·riiy.h') n.
l A curtain of gunflre uesigned to protect
546
beatitic ~
troops by impeding the movement of the
enemy. 2 Any overwhelming attack, as of ~
words or blows: a barrage oj critical comments.
bar·ris·ler (bar'is-ter) n. ~
~
tinguished from solicitor.
bar·ter (bar'tar) v., n. ~
v. '1'0 trade goods or services for something of
equal value: Tlte trapper bortered furs for Jooel ~
and supplies.
n. The act 01 bartering.
Syn. V., n. exchange, swap.
blls-re·lief (ba'riWf' ur bas'ri·lef') n.
A type of SCUlpture in which ti,e figures ~
project only slightly from the background.
bass ( bas) adj., 11. ~
adj. Very.low in pitch.
n. 1 The lowest-pitched nude singiHg voice.
2 The lowest part in vocal or instrumental ~
music. a One who sings or an instl'Ument that
plays such a part. ~
bas·tion (bas'chon or has'HH:lll) n.
1 In fortiJlcalion., the part of a rampart that ~
projects so as to give a wider firing range.
2 Any fortified or strongly defended place,
position, thing, ete.: a bastioll oj democracy. ~
-bas'Honed adj.
bathe (ba til) v. bathed, balh.jng ~
1 To wash or give a bath to someone else or
to oneself. 2 To go into or remain in water so
as to swim or cooi off. 3 To apply liquid for
comfort or healing: Bathe Y01IT brnised leg.
4 To cover or suffuse: The garden waS bathed
in moollligitt.--bathe'a.ble adj., balh'er n.
bat·tal·ion (bd·tal'yon) n.
1 A military unit consisting of a headquarters
and two or more companies batteries or
comparable units. 2 A large gl'~UP ()r Bum'ber:
A battalion of strikers picketed tile company.
bat· tie (bat'l) n.; v. bal.tled, bat·tJiug
n. A fight or struggle between hostile groups
or persons: " Congressiunal vaW" ol'ur gnn­
controt laws.
fur"
Usage: This word is u~ed principally in the
Houthern U.S.
ba·zaar (b,)·zar') II.
I An Oriental market or street of shops. 2 A
shop selling yarious kinds 01 merchandise.
3 A fair at which mi~cel\aneou" artid,," arc
sold, eSIHJcially to raise money for charity.
be·a·tif·ic (beJ·til'ik) adj.
Giving or expressing blessedness or bliss: i'_'
_Madonn«'s hCtLtijic smile.~be/a·lif'l-call;
wtv.
Syn. angelic, seraphic.
.-­
--
~
~
~
~
~
becoming
~
I>e.com·ing (hi·kum'ing) adj.
~ Appropriate or attractive: a very becoming
dress.
~ Spelling lip: 'l'his word is derived from the
verb become. As in most words that end in a
silent e, that e is dropped when a suffix such
.~ as -ing is added.
beg·gar (beg'ar) n., v.
~ n. 1 A person who asks or pleads. 2 A pOOl'
person; pauper.
v. 1 To reduce to a state of poverty: beggared
~ by the depression. 2 To make seem useless or
inadequate: a tragedy so terrible that it
~ beggared description.-beg'gar.ly ade.
Syn. v. 1 impoverish, ruin, bankrupt.
be· guile (bi·gil') v. be.guiled, be·guil·lng
1 To deceive; fool: The get-rich-(lUick scheme
beguiled him into investing all his money. 2 To
pass or while away pleasantly: to beguile a
Bummer afternoon aitting under a a/Huly tree.
a To charm; divert: ']'he chitd's attemr.ts to
dance on her toes beguiled me.··-be·guile ment
n., be.guil'er n.
Syn. 1 delude, dupe, bamboozle, trick.
a captivate, fascinate, enchant, delight.
Ant. a bore, weary, displease, annoy.
be·hav·ior (bi·hav'yar) n.
1 The manner in which a person conducts
~ himself: on good behavior. 2 The way some­
thing or someone acts under given circum­
stances: Test the behavior of a new cur under
~ optimum road conditions.
Syn. 1 deportment, demeanor, actions, man­
~
ner. 2 reaction, response, performance.
be·he·moth (bi·he'm~th or be'a·math) n.
.~ 1 In the Bible, a colossal heast, probably a
hippopotamus. 2 Any large beast or thing.
be·hoove (Li·hOov') v. be·hooved, be.hoov.ing
~ To be necessary, fit, or proper (used imper­
sonally): It behooves 1ne to leave before 1 over­
stay my we/come.
~
........,
be·la·bor (bi·la'bar) v.
1 To be cQncerned with or place emphasis on
in an overlong, nagging, repetitious way: He
made his point early in the speech and then
belabored ;It for an hour. 2 To attack, espe­
cially verbally; assail: '1'he nove! belabored
phony middle-class morality.
be·lat·ed (bi·la'tid) adj.
I Goodness or kindness: Her beufjicCl!CC was
Late or too late: a belated note oj thanks.
manifested cI'ery day of Iter lif". 2 An act that
Syn. delayed, slow, overdue.
reflects goodness or kindness: a bCllefi,'cnce
Ant. early, premature.
Owt was not full!1 appreciated by the recil'ierlt.
be·lea.guer (bi·le'gar) v.
1 1'0 surround or shut in with an armed
force: 7'/te lown w,w beleaguered for two weeks
before friendly troop" arrived. 2 To beset;
harass: '1'he widow was beleayuered by lhe
problems oj ruisiny five children.····be·lea'­
guered adj.
Syn. 1 beset, hesiege. 2 badger, worry.
be·Ueve (bi·lev') v. be·lieved. be.llev·ing
1 To accept as true or real: I do lIol believe hi"
SIOTY. 2 'l'o credit (a person) with ha ving told
the truth: I believe him. a 'l'o think; to
BUPllose: I bdieve Ite is away for the day.
'* To have confidence: HiB colleagues believe
beneficial
in him. 5 To have religious faith.-be·liev'a·
hie adj" be·liev'er n.
Spelling tip: Remember i before e except
after c (or when sounded like a a, ill neiphbor
andweigh.l
belles-leHres (bel'let'rd) n.pl.
Literature that is beautiful and artistic
rather than informative or moralistic: Poelry,
drama, and fiction are considered belles-lei/res.
bel·li·cose (bel'a·k,h) adj.
Having a tendency to fight: a bellicuse YOUll!l
mall.-bel'li·cose'ly adv.
Syn. pugnacious, warlike, helligerent, hustile,
quarrelsome.
Ani. ~riendlYl pi.'<H'('abll!, aluieahle, gentlL',
pacific.
bel·lig·er.ent (be·lij'3hllll) udj., n.
adj. 1 Raving or showing a tendency to fight:
II is bdligerent allitnde consistently yel., him into
froutlte. 2 Having to do with or "ngage,1 in
war: lhe bdliy,'reni powers vf W(JI 1(/ )V<l,. 11.
n. A person or nation engaged in warfare or
fighting. ~··bel.lig' er·cnt.ly adv.
Syn. 1 adj. pugnacious, quarrelsome, hostile.
bel.ly (bel'e) n., bel·lies 1'1.
1 The abdomen in man and in animals with
backbones. 2 Any curved or protruding line
or surface: lhe belly of a $uil. 3 A deep in­
terior cavity: the belly of a ship. 4 The curved
front piece, containing the sound 1101es, of
a violin, viola, etc.
Usage: Definition 1 The wonl "b<lumen is the
scientific, formal term for belly; stomach is
actually the internal digestive organ. Many
good writers ha ve recently begun using belly
rather than slomach or abdomen, and belly may
soon return to its once leading position in
common usage. However, belly is jarring to
some pe()ple, and it often suggests a large,
protruding abdomen.
ben·e,dic-tioll (Len';j·<lik'sh.m) n.
1 An asking of God's lJl,,:;:;ing on someone or
something, as at the end of a religious
service. 2 The expression of a hlessing or
good wishes: lle r,'ceiu",l hi$ father's benedic­
tion before he went ova8"",.
Syn .. 2 approval/ encouragelllent, sanetion~
Ant. 2 curse, malediction, denunciation.
be·nef·j·cence (ha·nef',,·sJfls) II.
Syn. 1 charity, benevolence, generosity,
graciousness.
Ant. 1 meanneHS, t5lingilless t economy, seHish­
ne::;::;,
be·llcf·i·cent (b'HlCf'd'S')lIt) adj.
Doing good: 11 e wa" a bel!CJicw/ ruler,
beloved by his people. ····Le,nef'j.cent.ly wlv.
Syn. benevolent, charitable, humane, gener­
ouo, kind, altruistic:.
ben·e·li·cial (ben'a·fish'al) adj,
Helpful: Country air is beneficial to health.~~·
ben'e·fi'cial.ly a<lv. .
Spelling tip: There is no fis', in bellr'ficinl.
Syn. udvu.nt<\geous, u})cful, good, bulutury.
Ant. harmful, bad, injurious, detrimental.
547
I>enevolence
l!e.nev·o·lence (ba·nev/a·lans) n.
Kindliness or charitableness: the benevolence
of nuns in caring for the homeless.
8yn. kindness, humaneness, philanthropy.
shape the end of a timber to a bevel.
Ant. cruelty. destructiveness.
v. To cut or bring to a bevel: to bevet the edges
be.nign (bi.nin') adj.
1 Favorable or mild: a benign influence; a
benign climate. 2 -Not dangerously harmful:
a benign tumor.
Spelling tip: Don't forget the silent g.
ben·zine (ben'zen or betHen') ><.
A colorless, flammable liquid derived from
crude petroleum and used as a solvent.
cleaner, and motor fuel.
be·quellth (bi-kwiHh' or bi·kweth') v.
To leave as an inheritance: In his will he
bequeatlwd his estate to his son. Moral concepts
bequeathed to us by the Victorian era,
Syn. will, devise, transmit.
be. rate (bi·rat') v. be·flll·ed, he.rat·ing
'1'0 scold severely: She berated him for his
coun.ud ice.
Syn. upbraid, chide, censure, rebuke, re­
Syn. partial. unfair, one-sided, slunted.
prove.
Ant. impartial, objective, fair.
Ant. praise, acclaim, extol, laud, commend,
Bi·ble (bi'bal) n.
be·reave·mellt (hi-rev'mant) n.
Loss through death of a loved one: The young
widow bore her bereavement bravely.
Spelling tip: Hemember the a in this word.
her·serk (ba(r)·so'rk' or ha(r)·zo'rk') adj.
In a frenzy of wild rage; violently destructive:
The wounded beast was berserk.
S,)'n. crazy, mad, frenzied, out of control.
Ant. calm, peaceful, placid, tranquil.
berth (burth) n., v.
n. 1 A bunk or bed in a ship or train: to sleep
ra.phies pl.
in the upper berth. 2 A space where a ship may
A A list of the works by a particular author
dock or anchor.
or on a particular subject: a Frost bibliog­
t>. To bring to or provide with a place to dock.
raphy; a bibliography of nineteenth-century
be·siege (bi·sej') v. be·sieged. be.sieg.ing
1 To surround with intent to capture: The
army besieged the enemy fort. 2 To harass or
overwhelm: Fans besieged the Btar wUh
requests for autographs.
Syn. 1 siege, beleaguer, beset, storm. 2 flood,
Etymology: Bibliography comes from two
swamp, deluge.
Greek words: biblion (book) + graphein (to
Ant. 1 aid, uphold, protect, defend, guard.
write).
bes·tial (beg'ehal or beat'yal) adj.
Savage, low, and brutish, like a beast: the
bestial appetites of a supposedly civilized man;
a bestial orfly.~bes.ti.aJ.i-ty (beg'cM·al'·
,,-tl!) n.
S,)'n. depraved, degenerate. animalistic, vi­
cious, degraded, base, vile, brutaL
Ant. human, civilized, refined, cultured.
be·stow (bi·sUj') v.
To give as .a gift: to bestow honors un a poet.
Syn. confer, present, award.
Ant. withhold, withdraw, deny.
be·trothed (bi·trothd' or bi-trotht') adj.• 11.
adj. Engaged to be married: a betrothed
couple.
n. A fiance or fiancee: 11e promised to return
years: Cabbage is a bi,,,,,,iul plant.
to his betro thed.
n. A plant that produces flowers and fruit
Syn. adj. affianced. n. sweetheart.
its second year and then dies.
548
biennial
bev·el (bev'al) n.; v. bev·eled or bev·elled.
bev.el.ing or bcv·e\·ling
n. A slanting angle, edge. or surface: to cut or
of a plate of glass for a car winduw.
bi·an·nu·al (bi·an'yoo·al) adj.
Occurring twiee a year: Tlw biui!1wul buard
meetings are held in January and July.
Syn. semiannual.
bi·as (bl·as) 11., bi·as·es pl.; v. bi.ased or bi.
assed, hl.as·lng or bi·as·sing
n. 1 A line running slantwise across a rabric:
10 cut an the bias. 2 A prejudice: The 1lniun
showed a bias for the children of members.
v. '1'0 prejudice: Her bad record biasecl the jury
against her.
S,)'n. n. 2 leaning, inclination, predisposition.
v. infhlPnce.
Ant. n. 2 impartiality, objectivity, f<lirne"s.
bi·ased (bl'ogd) adj.
Prejudiced: a biased jll), y; a biased siory of the
war.
The sacred writings of Christianity, J uduism,
or any oth~r religion.
Spelling lip: The first letter of thi" word is
alw:,y" capitalized when it mean" sacred
religious writings. It is written bible only
when used in the broad sense of any written
authority: That guidebook was his bible while
he traveled.
Syn. Scripture, the Scriptures, the Word,
Holy Writ.
bib.li·og·ra·phy (bib'le.og'ra·fe) n., bib·li.og.
novels. 2 A list of the works mentioned or
consulted by a writer, given at the end of his
text. ::I The detailed. technical history,
description, and classification of Looks and
texts.
bi·cam·er·a! (bi·kam'ar·.,!) adj.
Consisting of two chambers or branches: The
U.S. Congress and Brit-ish Parliament are
bicameral legislatures, each having (In upper
and a lower house.
Etymology: Bicameral comes from the Llltin
+
bi- (two) cameT<! (chumber).
bi.cen.te·nar.y (bi·sen't;J·ner'~) adj .. n.
adj. Of or concerning a ZOOeh anniversary: a
bicentenary celebration.
n. A 200th anniversary: 'The town was cel­
ebrating its biccHtenary.
Syn. bicentennial.
bi·en·ni·al ( bi·en'e-al) adj., n.
adj. 1 Happening every second year: (1
biennial election. 2 Lasting or living for twu
~
~
~
~
~ bifocal
~ bi·fo·cal (bl,[O'kui) adj.
~ Having a dual focus: said about a lens
ground for both near and far vision. Eye­
~
glasses having such len:;es ure called bifocalH.
big·ot·ry (big'a·tre) n., bil/.ut.ries pl.
Bitter, hostile prejudice, as against a group,
~ race, religion, etc.: the shameless bigotry of Ihe
employers who said Ihal immigrants neal not
~ apply.-hi~'OI n.
8yn. bias, Intolerance, narrow·minded •..,:;".
Ant. impartiality, tolerance, open·minded­
~ ness.
bit·ious (bil'Yds) adj.
~ 1 Caused by or affected with Ii vcr trouhle: a
bilious fever; a bilious patient. 2 Peevish in
temper: a bitiou.~ old codger.
"'!SJ 8yn. 2 ill-tempered, choleric, cross, irritable.
Ant. 2 amiable, sweet·tempered, good­
humored.
~
bil·let-doux (bil'ii.diJo' or he.yil·dQo') 11., uil·
lets·dou:.: (bil'a.d60z' or bi!·ylhl60') pI.
~ A love leUer: sweethearts exchangi1lg biLlcls­
doux.
Elymology; Billet-doux "orne" frurn two
~ French words: doux (sw~"t) and billel ('lOte).
Spelling lip: When writing more than one
~ note, add the B to billet.
bil·liards (bil'yardz) n.p!.
.~ A game played with hard balls that are hit
by cues on an oblong, cloth-covered table.
Usage: Use a singular verb with this word:
~ Billiards is often played with three halls.
bin·oe·u·lar (ba.nok'ya·lar) adj., n.
~ adj. Of, for, or used by both eyeo at once: a
binocular telescope.
n.pl. An optical insLrument consisting of two
~ short telescopes, one for each eye: Binuculars
are used for' viewing things at a distance.
Syn. n. field glasses, opera glasses.
~ bi·og·ra.phy (bi·og'r,,·fe) n., bi.og.ra.phies pi.
An account of a person's life: Sandburg'S biog­
~ raphy of Abraham Linco!ll.-· ...i·og'ra·pher n.
Etymology: BiogTtLphy comes from two Greek
words: bios (life) + gr<1pitein (to write).
~ bis·euit (bis/kit) n.
A kind of bread baked in small cakes.
bisque (bisk) n.
A thick, creamy soup: lobdler bisque.
bis·tro (bis'tro) n.
A small bur or nighteluL.
8yn. tavern.
biv·ou·ac (uiv'60·ak or biv'wak) n.; v. hiv·o\l·
acked, biv·ou·ack.ing
n, A t(,mporary ca'lll'. usually wilb(J(lt
~hellel', e~jJedally fur ""Ieli,,!"s.
v. To camp out in a bivouac.
Spelling lill: Wurds ending in t: (",'"lir.
three.
picnic, frolic, ole.) usually have a k ins(,rted
when adding an ending l;uch as -c,l or -iJlg,
boid·j"H:C (b()[<l'f"s') )1.
bi·zarre ( bi'"ar/) adj.
Very different from what is usual or normal:
biwrrc sf lIles; bizarre art forms.
Syn. fantastic, odd, eccentric.
Ant. comlllon, natural, ordinary.
blan·disb·mcnL (blan'elish·m<Jnt) rt.
Flattering speech or actions: It was difficult to
border
re.~ist lhe blandi"hll<cHis of the sa/csown.
Syn. coaxing.
Aul. abuse, contempt.
bla·se (blii·za') 11<lj.
Bored; She pre/ended a blase il<dilfcrence.
Syn. weary, exhausted, jadecl.
Aut. enthusiastic, keen.
blas'llhc.my (blas'f;)·m5) 'iI., blas·pile·tnie" 1)/.
Words or actiolls t.hal dl'IH",ralely mock or
show c()ntempt for sacred things, especially
for God: His blasl'itrmries "9" i'll 0/ Gud and
counlry made him un ou/cast.""blus'pllC.l\lous
adj., blus·phellle (blas·fem') v.
bla·taut (bla'Lant) adj.
I Disagreeably loud: « bla/mdjah:uu.(. 2 Com­
pletely or crassly obvious: SUI,," young people
show a blatant contempt for tradition,
Syn. 1 noisy, piercing durnoroll:::l. 2 oblru­
l
Hive, brazen.
Ant. 1 {tuiet, subdued.
bla·zoll (bla'zan) H., V.
n. A coat of arms.
t!, To rna 1" (! public; proelaiIn; display: CO(Uf­
Jut p()slcr::; bltuwtwti Oft 'Hr'IV prudaci jruJ!l flWfY
/,illvouni.
bleak ( hIck) "dj., hleak.cr, L>lcak,csl
Cold; dismal; barren: a vlmk wast; The
future tooks pretty bleak.
Syn. cheerkss, gloomy, bill·C.
blithe (bUlil vr ullth) adj.
Joyous, gay: " biilhe spirit.· biithe'ly "dr.
bloc (bluk) 11.
A grmlp of poliLicians. nalions, etc., fOl'med
to pl'omote certain interests: the far ,Ii bloc.
Usage: PaciivlI, wiuy, and hi,,,, rder to tiub·
groups, eSf",daliy within l'vliti<-al partieB. A
faction is o{ten a disruptive ';'lbgroul'. A wiflY
is one of Lwo ,lin;cLly opp(mcel groul"; the lib­
eral and cutts(rmliuc winys of lhe Republican
party. A bloc is u coalition tllal cuts across
purty lines. .
bludg·eon (lJJuj',m) n., v.
n. A short du'" used as a weapon.
v. To strike wilh a "'Iuelgeoll: 11 e was fuuml
bludgeoned 10 death.
board·er ( hor'd<lr) n.
A person who pay" to eat and "leep at
Ul1olher'l:l housc'.
bode ("'udl v. hod·ed, bod·illl(
Tu be an onwn 01' sign of: A uwiurCJjde gUlly
bud.:, trouble for (! lUII'll.
bois·tcr·ous OHJi})'(,JI"'ie, or iJ:li!')'trd.:1) at/j,
Noj:-;y .uld wild: €l fwi:;ki'llii:{ nlil;;'
SpcHing Up: Prolioulw~~ Ull:-. Wl)rd with LWo
or Ihn'" syHabl",;, bm I...."H<' to ,pdl iL with
A printiug type wilh L.lJiei:.. ll:W:i lu nHtl{(~ it
sLanei ouL, like lhi~.
boll (uOlJ II.
The seed pod of cerluill plants, as ('olton.
bor·der (b{}(,'d,lt) 1<.
A murgin, edgt~. or buundary: The 1r1l~)d li<id {[
pink bonia.
5-19
bouillon
bouil·lon (bB'6I'yon or b60\'yau) 11.
A clear soup made from beef, chicken, or
other meals.
Syn. consomme.
bound·a·ry (boun/dre or boun'da·re) n.,
bound·a·des pI.
A limiting or dividing line or mark: Tlte
iHi88i8.ippi lliver i3 Tem,".""e'. western
boundary.
Spelling tip: Whether you pronounce this
Usage: Bric-a-brac is a collective nOUll and
word with two or three syllables, be sure to
customarily takes a singular verb: The bric-a­
spell it with three.
brae needs dusting.
Syn. limit, edge, bounds.
Syn. bauble:;, ornaments, knickknacks.
bou.quet (boo·ka'; also bo·ka' for def. 1) n.
1 A bunch of flowers . .2 Delicate aroma,
especially of wine.
Syn. 1 nosegay, spray. 2 odor, scent.
bowd·ler·ize (boud'lar-iz) v. bowd·ler·ized.
bowd.ler.!z.ing
To prudishly remove supposedly objection­
able matter from a manuscript, etc.: The
censor bou'dlerized the avant-garde movie.
Etymology: This word comes from Dr.
Thomas BOlrdlcr, an English editor who in
brig.and (IJrig'..lluli n.
1818 published a "family" edition of Shake­
A bandit: The brigands of Sicilg werc wcll­
speare in which he removed all possibly
offensive passages.
Syn. outlaw, thug, robber, desperado.
Syn. censor, expurgate.
brin·dled (brin'ddld) adj.
brag·ga·do.ci.o (brag'e·do'shiH}) 11., brag·ga·
do·d·os pI.
Empty boasting, or a person who engages in
such boasting: Ihe braggadocio of a teen-ager.
bra·va·do (bra·va'do) n., bra·va·does or bra·
va·doB pI.
A pretense of bravery: His al/empt at r"sist­
ance WQS sheer bravado.
bra· zen (bra'ziln) adj.
Impudent, "hamel"sH: lira;,m d"ji(HlCC vf lhe
law by lh. r·iuters.
bra·zier (bra'zhor) 11.
A pan for holding live coals: She healed
water for tea Oll an antique brazier.
breach (brech) 11., v.
n. A break or violation: a breach of contract;
a breach of good manners.
v. To break through: The troops mallaged to
breach the enemy's defenses.
Syn. n. infraction. v. crack, fracture.
breadth (urcdlh or brettb) n.
Measure of distance from side to side: The
lailor had to allow for the breadth of the
(lthlele's shoulders.
Syn. width)· wjd(~rj(!~~il BlHU1, UrOaUIl(·;-)H.
breath (bretlt) n.
uruach « cu"k of wille.
Air inhaled and exhaled.
broad·side tbrM/sid') n., adr.
breathe (brelh) P. breathed (brewld), breath·
ing
'fa inhale and exhale.
Syn. respire.
bre·vi·ar·y (bre'ye·er'e or brev'e·er'e) 11.,
bre.vi.r.r·ics '{II.
(Usually capItal B) In the Roman Catholic
and Eastern Orthodox churches, Ii book 01
prayers for the canonical hours: The young
priest read ili8 Brelliary aB he walked in the
garden.
550
brocade
brev·j·ty (brev'a·te) n.
1 Brief time: the brevity of life. 2 Conciseness:
Brevity is w.id to be lhe so1l1 Of wit.
Syn. 1 shortness, transience. 2 terseness,
succinctness.
Ant. 1 lengthiness. 2 wordiness.
bric-a-brac (hrik',,·brak) 11.
Objed~ of curiooily or decoration: Siw
colkctcd china figurines and ollter bric-a-brac.
bri·dle (brJ'dal) n.; v. bri·dled, bri.dling
n. 1 'fhe head harness, including the bit and
reins, used to guide or restrain a horse. 2 A ~
check; restraint: Put a bridle on youI' tougue,
young man!
v. I To put a bridle on. 2 To control or check. ~
3 To show anger, pride, etc., by a movement
of the head: She bridled when her friend was ~
crilicized.
~
oryanized and fierce.
~
'fawny or grayish in color, with irregular ~
streaks or spots: a brindled cat.
bris·tle (bris'~l) n.; v. bris·tled. bris.tling
n. lOne of the coarse, stiff hairs from a hog,
used in making brushes. 2 Any similar hair,
real or arlificial: the brislle" of (\ mlls/acile;
nylon bristles on (l toothbrush.
v. I To be thickly set, as if with bristles: 'Phe
crowd bristled wilh sigh/seers. 2 To sland or
l",c(Jme ered like brbll<-H. 3 '1'" Hti{fPll \.he
uristles ill anger or fright: All "t oilce tlie
cat bristled. 4 To SllOW anger or irritation: fle
always bristles when aclked fur 1I(0ney.
Brit·ain ( brit'n) n.
The principal island or the Uniled Kingdum.
made up of England, Scotland, and Wales.
Usage: Britain is a shortened form of Great
Britain.
Spelling tip: Be careful not to confuse
Britain with Briloll, unothl'r name for a
UritiMlwr or Elluli.>I"""".
broach (broch) t'.
I To mention or suggest for the first lime:
lIe finally broached the subject of marriage.
.2 To pi.m'l; "0 as to withdraw :t litllli,l: It>
11. 1 A "lJill'S side above the watel' lille. 2 All
of the guns on one side of a warship; also, the
firing of all these guns at on" time. 3 A single
sheet of paller printed on one side: « broadside
ae/rer/ising supennarket bargains.
adv. With the side turned or exposed: The
truck went Ihruugh a red light and struck lit"
bus broadside.
bro·cude (lJr()·kad') II.; v. ilro·tad·cd, bro·cad·
ing
n. A rich fabric interwoven with a r~:07_
­
..--
~
~
~
~
.'!!'!!!j
broccoli
~ desi~n, often in silk or gold thread: an
a:; proteclion against all enemy; The soldiers
~ evemng wrap of brocade.
v_ To weave (a cloth) with a raised design or
figure.
liun. 3 U sHully pI. The raised side 01 a ship,
~ broc·co·1i (brok'a·le) n.
A green variety of cauliflower, of which the
-~ sprouts and tender stalks are eaten.
Etymology: Broccoli comes from the Italian
word bruccu/u, meaning "('abbage sproul."
~ bro·chure (hr'Hh06r') )"
A bookleL or similar publica lion, without a
-~ stiff cover; a gvve-rmnent brochure on 1Iow to
raise bees.
Elyruology: Brochure COIHU~ frum a Freuell
~ word meaning "a stitched hook,"
Syn. pamphlet.
brogue (brog) ll.
A speech characteristic common to a
specific region, especially an Irish accent in
the pronunciation of English.
Spelling tip: Note the silent ue in this word.
bron·chi·al (brong'ke·al) adj.
Of or pertaining to the bronchi, or chief air
pasHag':s of the lungs: bnJnchiut "IHtcU'fIwuia.
Spelling lip: Many people misspell and mis­
pronounce this word as brun'i·ella!'
bron,chi·tis (brong·kj'tis) 11.
Inflammation of the brullchial tubes, marked
by hcavy coughing,
brooch (broch OT brooch) n.
An ornamental pin with a clasp for wearing
at the neck or at the shoulder of a dress: 11Iy
grandmolher always 'wore a pearl brooch.
brusque (brusk) udj.
Rough and abrupt in manner; blunt; 'Phe
daetor is 11 kindly mal! but brusqlle,~brusque'­
Iy adu., brusque'ness n.
Syn. curt, terse, laconic, uncivil.
Aut. expansive, talkative, warm, ingratiating.
buc·ca·neer (buk'a·nir') n.
A pirate, especially one who robbed along the
Spanish coasts of America in the seventeenth
and eighteenth centuries.
bur,Coon (bu·lOOn') 11.
1 A clown. 2 A person given to jokes, pranks,
etc.: At parlies lie always (leis the buffooll.~­
buC·Coon er·y n" buC·foon'ish adj,
Syn. 2 jokester, prankster, fooL
bul·le·Un (bo-ol'o·tan) n.
1 A brief account of the news, as in a news­
paper or on the radio: Stand by for a spedal
bulletin. 2 A periodical publication, especially
one issued by a society or organization fur its
mernbers: the medical society bulletin. :; A
brief oilicial statement: " pulice balle!i" de­
scribing (lie kidnaper.
bul·lion (hirol'yan) n.
Gold and silver in bars, which may later he
made into coins: a bil/ioi! in bullion.
bul·rush (hool'rush') 11.
A tall, rush like plant, growing in damp
ground or shallow water: 'l'he baby Moses
was found in the bulrushe•.
bul·wllrk (bilOl'wark) n.
1 A defensive wall of stone, earth, etc., built
burglar
cruuched be/dud the bul-wark. 2 Any safeguard
or defense: The law is the bulwark uf civiliz,,~
above the upper deck.
bun·combe (bung'kdm) n.
1 I nforlllal Empty speechmakin;; fur political
effect or to please constituents: What the
candidate sal/i) is Jiure bluu~oml!!'. 2 Any
emply, {ooli"h talk,
Etymology and spelling tip: fiLii/combe,
wbieh is oilen spelled buukum or ShOl'lHWd
to the more familiar bunk, is derived {rom
Bunco",h" Counly, t;.C., whidl ",1('" bad a
cOHllre:-;srnau who fdad\,; lUl.!g, wiuuy speedJts.
llun.gle (bung'gal) t'. bun·gled, bun.gling; II.
v. To wurk, mahe, or do (something)
clumslly and unskillfully: The rubber Lu"ylui
Ihe job.
11. All awkward or badly done job or per­
- formunce: fie mwi;: a burlyie of irying 10 yo
inlo business for Ilimdclf.- bun'glerll.
Syn. 1'. botch, mesS up, muff, fail at. 'II. hotch,
mess, failure, flop,
buoy (bui Of l,oo'c) II., v.
11. I A fluating wood or melal obj«ct moored
in a sea, river, elc.; to mark a channel or
dangerous rockil and shoals. 2 A life p":oscrver.
tJ. 1 T'o KHep frurn ;.;inkillg in a )iqlJid; lu:{~p
aHoal: The child "tVll::; btwYI'd ·Itp by 1I:(lI{,f
'lI.duys. 2 Tu rai::;e the courtige or ::;pirit>j of
(usually followed by up): The new hul buoyed
up her spirits.
Syn. n. 1 float. 2 life buoy, lif\? jacket. c. I
sustain, hold up. 2 elleourage, ciwpr, cnlivoll,
elcvate.
Ant. v. 2 depress, dbcoumgc, deject.
buoy.all·cy (hoi",m-se or boo'y,m·se) 11.
I The tendency or ability to keep afloat: the
buuVllllcy of cork. 2 The pow",' of a fluid to
keep an ohject afloat. 3 lligbncs~ of spirits;
cheerfulness; his buoyancy at jilldin~ u new
job. Also buoy'ance n.
Syn.3 vivacity, hupefulness, jubilation.
AnI. 3 dejection, ,lepnossioll. discouragement.
buoy.ant (hui'ont ur bGU'y,HlL) udj.
1 Able to stay afloat or rise up, as ill a liquid
or air; B"lloons filled 'with lidium are buoyant.
2 Gay; lighthearted; a buoyant 'iw/comc.--­
buoy'ant.ly a£lv.
Syn. 2 cheerlul, happy.
Ant. 2 dejected, depressed, sad, discouraged.
bu.reauc·ra·cy (byuQ·l'ok'rd·se) n., bu·reauc.
ra·des pI,
I Government mude up of rnally depart­
ments or lJi.lreaUS, eaeh loliowing thdlBitc ~ets
of rules; also, the olliciab making up such
bUl'ealls. 2 Any sysU,l1l in which there is too
much red tupe and delay becanse of the
great numher of rigid rules that mllst be
folluwed.
bu·reau·crat (by,wr'",krat) II.
I A mem ber of a bureaucracy. 2 All oilicial
who narrowly and rigidly foilow~ the rules.
-bu'reau.crat'ic adj.
bur·glar (bur'gIM) 11.
A person who breaks into and enters a
551

burlesque
building, especially with intent to steal.­
v. 1 To support with a buttress: to buttress a
bur'gla.ry n.
1(Iall. 2 To prop up; sustain; II e buttressed his
~
Syn. thief, robber.
arguments with facts and figures.
bur·lesque (ber·lesk') n.; II. bUf.lesqued, bur.
les.quing
n. 1 A theatrical entertainment with dancing,
low comedy, striptease, etc. 2 A literary or
dramatic work that is a comic or satiric
imitation, usually of a serious, dignified
subject; a burlesque of Shakespeare's works.
v. To imitate in a laughable or satiric way;
The students burlesqued Ihe mannerisms af
their teachers.
bur.nish (bur/nish) v., n.
v. To polish by rubbing; make or become
shiny or lustrous; to burnish leather.
n. A lustrous or polished surface; to protect
the brmlish of a table top with a sheet of glass.
Syn. v. shine, buff. n. gloss, luster, sheen.
bur·nom;c (bar'nim~' or bur'nOos) n.
A hooded cloak worn by Arab men; The
1 A small evergreen tree tropical America.
burnoose offered proteclioll from the fierce desert
2 The large seeds of this tree, u~eJ in making ~
sun.
Spelling tip: Also sjJelled burnous.
burst (burst) v. burst, burst·ing; n.
v. 'l'o conceal Or store in a secret place: My
v. 1 To break open or apart suddenly and
violently: The inner tube burst. 2 To be full to
the point of breaking open: a suitcase
bunlting with dothes. 3 To give sudden
expression to an emotion; She burst into tears.
4 TQ appear or enter suddenly and violently:
She burst angrily into the room.
~
n. 1 A sudden exploding o'r breaking forth: (l
burst of thunder. 2 A sudden spurt: a burst of
speed. 3 A crack or break; a burst in the side
oj a water tank.
Usage: Burst is the correct past tense and
past participle of to burst: The dam burst
during the heavy floods. Bust (busted) is an
incorrect usage in any tense, but is some- •
times used humorously.
Syn. v. 1 explode, blow up, shatter. 2 bulge,
swell. 4 rush, run. n. 1 explosion.
busi·ness ( biz'nis) n.
1 Any occupation, trade, or profession. 2 Any
of the various operations or details of trade
or indUstry. 3 A commercial enterprise, such
as a store or factory. 4 A matter or affair:
Driving on icy streets is a dangerous business.
5 A proper interest or concern; duty: none of
your business.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse business with
busyness, which means being busy.
bus· tie (bus'al) v. bus·tied, bus·tling; n.
v. To move about noisily or energetically;
She bustled about the room dusting and tidying
fhings.
n. Excited activity; noisy slir; till; bustle of"
cac·su·ru (;;i·zhilOr',)) 'II., cae·ou·rll'" or cue·
CToulded playground.
A pau,e or break in a line uf vCl'se, indical~d
Spelling tip: Remember to write the t in l bb
by two vertical lines ([I).
word, but don't pronounce it.
Etymology; The Latin woru Ca"~"}'(t Illua!'.,
Syn. v. fuss, flutter. n. commotion, flurry,
cutting.
haste, energy.
but· tress (but'tris) n., v.
n. 1 A structure built against a wall to
strengthen it: a fiying bu.ttress on a cathedral.
.2 Something that strengthells, defends, or
upholds: a bUilres8 of world peace.
552
~
~
cajole
~
Syn. v. 2 reinforce, strengthen.
bUK·om (buk'sam) adj.
~
Plump and healthy; especially, full-bosomed:
In the 18908 buxom women were in fashion.­ ~
bux'om·ness n.
Usage: Buxom refers only to women. ~
c ~
ca·bal (ka,hal') 11.
1 A number of persons secretly ullileJ in a ~
plot or other plan, eSjJecially one to over­
throw a ruler. 2 An intrigue or jJlot by such
a group. ~
Syn. 1 junta, gang. 2 scheme, cOllspiracy,
plan, machination. ~
ca·ca·o (k,,·ka'o or ca-e"'OH 1'1.
cocoa and chocolate.
cacbc (kash) v. caclwd, each.jng; n. ~
grandfather cue/led silver dollars in an old ~
trullk. •
n. 1 A place for hiding provi~ions, equipment,
etc.; A,n abandoned mine served as an am­ ~
munition cache. 2 Things that are stored or
hidden in a cache.
Spelling tip: It's dangerous to cache your
cash. Watch the spelling of these two words
that are pronounced alike but have Jifferent
meanings.
ca·coph·o·ny (ke·ko['d·ne) n., ca.coph.o.niespt.
Disagreeable or discordant sound: the ca­
copllOny of a flock of crow3.··--ca·coph'o.nous
adj., ca.coph'o.nous.ly adv.
SYll. discord, dissonan~e, !loise, damor, hub­
buh, uproar.
ca·dav·er·ous (ka·dav'ar·as) adj.
Resembling a corpoe in appearance; pale and
gaunt; 'The cadaverous face of Boris Karloff
appeared in many horror films.
Syn. deathlike, deathly, macabre, gha~tly.
Ant. ruddy, wholesome, robust, hale.
ca·dellce (kad'ns) 1/.
I Rhythmic or measured flow or beai; When
the sergeant gape the order Jor 1j1Iick clldcnce,
the troops increased their pace. 2 Mouulation,
as of the voice; intonation. 3 The falling
inflection of the voice, as at the end of a
sentence. " A melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic
formula ending part of a piece of mu~ic.
su·rae (,[·zi1ilOr'()) 1'1.
culs·son (ka'san or ka'son) 11.
A large chamber within which work is (L:."
underwater, as in laying bridge sUjJPOTts.
cll)olc (b),jol') v. cajoled, cn.jol.ing
'10 coal( with flattery: She begged tn..] c~.
-,
.~
~
~
~
~
calamity
~
her parents until they consented to lei her go to
~ the parl·lI.-ca.jol'er.)' n.
ca·lam·i.(y (ka·!anl'a·te) n., ca.lam·j·ties pl.
~ A great misfortune; disaster: The 1966
jlooding in /i'lorence, Itoly, wag a calamity 10
~
Ihe world oj art, since many precious paintings
loere damaged amt destroyee!.
Syn. debacle, catastrophe.
~ cal-eu·late (kal'ky~·lat) v. cal·cu.lut·ed, cal·
cu·\at.jng
1 '1'0 determine by arithmetic: /0 calculate the
~ average grade. 2 To estimate: to calculale the
chance of failure. 3 Inforillal '1'0 think or
~ expect: I calculate he'll be here next Wed­
nesday., cal'cu·la'tion n.
~ cal·cu·la·tor (kal'kya·Hi't"r; n,
1 A person who calculatc6. 2 A calculating
machine or a set of tables for computing: a
calculator that can subtract, ",u!lip/y, and
divide as well as add.
cal,i·ber (lntl'a-bar) n.
~ 1 '!'he internal diameter of a tube, as of the
barrel of a !'un. 2 The diameter of a bullet,
~ shell, etc. 3 Degree of worth: a man oj the
highest caliber.
Spelling tip: Caliber is a common U.S.
~ spelling, hut calibre, the only form used in
Britain, is also widely used in the U.S.
~ cal·is·then·ics (kal'is·then'iks) n.pl.
Physical exercises to promote health and
agility: His morning calisthenics consislcd of
~
kne? belHis and toe-touching.
ca·lix (ka'liks or kal'iks) n., cal·i·ces (kal'a·
~ sez) pI,
A cup or a cup-shaped part, especially an
ecclesiastical chalice.
~ Etymology: Calix is the Latin word for cup.
cal,lig,ra'phy (ka·lig'ra·fe) n.
~ Beautiful penmanship, or handwriting in
general: Chinese calligraphy has been de­
~
veloped into a fine art.-cal.lig'ra..pher n.
cal.Ii·Q.pe (ku·Ii'd·pe or kal'[HljJ) 11.
A keyboard in~trument consisting of a series
~ of steam whistles. Also called a steam organ.
cal·lous (kill'us) odj.
Hardened in feelings: Don'/ be callous to the
suffering of oihers.-·cal'lous·ness n.
Usage: See CALLOW.
cal·low (l;al'oJ adj.
Inexperienced; immature.'" cal'low·ncss n.
Usage: A cultow youth is an immature or
inexperienced one; a callOltS .soldier is one
so used to cruelty or suffering as to be in­
scn,itive to it. The two words are OPI""itl)
in nl{~aning.
Syn. green, juvenile, pnerile, unsophislicated.
Alit. adult. cxpericllcl't!, mature, suphistieatl'd.
calm (kam) adj.
Quiet; still; peaceful: lie relfwiw,d "ul", in
"rlile of tlte t:lIwrgency. calm'l)' adv., cahn'·
lIess n,
~yn. 1 hypocrisy. 2 jargon, lingo.
Spelling lip: Relhember the I.
can't ~hallt) COll/furti""
Syn. sercne. tranquil, placid.
Cannot: I call'l hear you.
Alit. agitated, upset, disturbed.
~pelling till: '1'1", apost.roplH! ill,j;,'al!'s lhat
tam·c·o (l\a1n'{:·O) n., CUIU'C-OH pl.
A gem, stone, or shell ha ving a design car ved
can't
in relief on one layer. with the other layers
serving as background.
cam·Qu·{\age (kam',,·fiazh) n.; v. cam·Oli·
tinged, cam.ou.llag·illg
n. Means or material ubed to cOJl~eal or
disguise military installations, personnel, etc.
v. To hide or obscure, as with di:;guises.
cam.paign (kam·piin') n., ".
n. An organized seriE:'::; of evC'nt~)1 U!;) a luHitury
operation or a political movement, de"igned
to achieve some end.
v. To serve in or conduct such series of
events: to cul1lpaiyn for Congress.
can.a-pc (kan'd,pe ur hau'.J·pa) ll.
A thm piece of toa6ted or fried JJread spread
with cheese, caviar, etc.
can·t.el (kan'sd!) v. can·eeled or call.celled,
l:an.ceJ.ing or can.cel.lin"
1 To mark out or oif. a" J!y drawill" lines
throu;:il: The pOol office canetls slumjJs. 2 To
make null and void; delete Gr withdr", w: ],he
show was cancded (wHce/IeiI).
can·di·date (kan'dd·dat) '1.
One who seeks an office or honpr: (1 candidale
for gover)lOr.' ~ clln·di·da·cy (kan'da·da·se) n.
Elymology: This word is derived from a
Latin word meaning white, bectluoe ofilce
seekers in Rome wore white logas.
can·dor (kan'dClr) iI.
Frankne$B; openness: 1.1is caJ/dor -if! udmiltiny
/tis faults 311rprised me.
Syn. bluntness, honesty, candidness.
Ant. deviouslJes6, slyness.
call·ker (kang'kvr) I,.
1 An ulcera Lion or sore, as of till! mouth.
2 Anything causing corruption, decay, etc.:
7'I,e slums Were a c«nkcrin the urban environ­
menl.·..·can'ker.ous udj.
can·non (kan';:mJ n., call·nons or call·non pL
A large tubelike weapon that discharges a
projectile by means of an explosive charge.
SVellillg lip: Note the double 1/. Do not con­
fuse this word with cunon (rule 01' law).
which is pronounced lhe "arne Illlt spelled
without the dOllble n.
eall·Q·py (kan'd·pe) n .• call.o.pies pI.
1 A covering suspended over a throlH!, bcd,
shrille, elC.: Culouial bE cis har! cUHopi,"-;, 2 Any
ov()rhead covering, as the sky.
callt (kant) n.
1 Insincere religious or moralistic lalk: the
usual cant about Ihe neul to in"!,ire !lonth.
2 WOl'dH or talk dlara{'l(~ri:;li{' ll[ a pal'lieu\ar
group ur du.:):.:,;: kyal .cani. 3, Whining' .::llH:ecli,
especially of beggars; or l he ~ecrd ~lang of
Log-gars, lhiev(\:{, etc.: I cunlt 1.{lHi.-i';:;lll.ltd lhe
bcgyar' cl ell itt.
SI",lIing tip: Do nol confus" this \VOI',j witb
can'l (e~lIu1i)l).
certain !pttvr:i ill t.hb ctwt~ the It Hnd 0 of
cail1w/-·~ha ve been omitted.
553

cantaloupe
can·ta.loupe (kan'ta·lop) n.
A variety of muskmelon having a sweet,
orange flesh.
can·ta·ta (kan·tii'ta) n.
~
A vocal com position in the style of a short
drama, to be sung but not acted.
can·ter (kan'tar) n., v.
n. A moderate, easy gallop.
v. To ride or 'go at a canter: We cantered for a
mile and then broke into a full gallop.
Etymology: Canter is short for Canterbnry
gallop, derived from the pace of pilgrims
riding to Canterbury.
can·vas (kan'vas) n.
A heavy, closely woven cloth used for sails,
car·at (kar'at) 11.
tents, material 011 which to paint, etc.
A unit of weigbt for a gem,
can·vass (kan'vas) v., n.
v. To go about a region or among persons to
solicit votes, opinions, orders for goods, etc.:
The pollsters canvassed three typical commu­
nities for opinioJls on the war.
n. Tbe act of cal1vassing.---can'v3Ss,er n.
cap·n·Jur·y (kap'a,ler'e) n., cap,II,lar,ics pl.;
carat is I()()~cly used to wier to tl>,' fineness of
adj.
n. A very small blood vessel, as those con­
fused with karat: a one-carat dia mOlld in a 14­
necting arteries al1d veins.
karat gold seUing.
adj. Pertaining to or like a hair; slender or
car·di·o·graph (kar'de';,'graf') It.
fine: a capillary lube.
An instrument t.hat record" the foree all,l
cap·i·tal (kap'a·tal) n., udj.
1 The city or town in a country, state, etc.
that is the seat of government: Washington,
D.C., i8 the capital of the U.S. Lansing is tile
capital 01 Michigan. 2 Wealth used to pro­
duce more wealth: The business nerds more
capital to expand. 3 'fhe top part of a column.
4 An upper-case letter (A rather than a, etc.).
adj. 1 Chief: the capita! city. 2 Of excellent
quality: (t cupitul idea. 3 Punishable by
death: a capttal crime. <I Very injurious;
gra ve: u capital error.
Spellinl!' tip: Capitol (with an 0) refers only
to a legIslative building~often with a dome.
Thus the U.S, Congress meets in the Capito/,
located in Wasbington, D.C" the nation's
c'u.pital.
cap·j,tal·ism (kap'a·tal,iz'am) II.
An economic system depending primarily
upon the private ownership of the meal1s of
production and distribution of goods.
cap·i·lo} (kap'a.t<ll) n.
1 'fhe building in which a legislature
convenes. 2 (Capital C) Tbe oificial building
of the U.S. Congress in Washington, D,C.
'Spelling tip: See CAPITAL.
ca.pit·u·late. (ka·pich'06·latJ v. ca·pi!·u·lat.ed,
ca.pit·u.lat,ing
'l'o surrender, often On stipulated terms: The
enemy capitulated after being promised jClir
treatment.-ca·pit'u·ia'tion n.
Syn. yield, give up, give in.
Ant. hold out; reslSt.
ca· price (ka·pres') n.
A sudden, fanciful change of mind, mood, or
opinion; whim: She bought a huge bear rag,
merely out of caprice.
ca.prj·dous (k,,'prish'as) adj.
Resulting from caprice: 'Phe acti01!3 of
554
~
~
carp ~
diplomats must never lie capriciou8.~ca.pri'·
dous.ly adv.
tI!!!!!.
Syn. whimsical, fickle, fanciful.
Ant. tboughtful, reasoned, careful, deliberate,
cap·Lion (kap'sholl) 11.
A heading, as of a "hal'ler or lJeWSl'aper ~
article, or a description accompanyiull an
illustration. ~
cap·tious (kap'shas) adj.
Apt to lind fault: A. capliou8 crilic, he would
o/;ject to c!wp(er tiilC8 if he could find /lathing ~
else to olfend him.~cup'tious.ness n.
Syn. faultfinding, nit-picking, hypercriLical.
Ant. easygoing, uncritICal.
~
~
U~age: Be sure you don't. COllfll"" curat, card.
currot, and kuru.! (all pronouJlced the same). A ~
caret (1\) is a mark that shows where addition­
al words or letters should be illserted. A carrot
is an edible root. A karat indicates the fine­ ~
nesS or purity of gold (although sometimes
gold). Carat, however, sh(,tlid nut be con­
~
~
~
character of heart movcmcnt$, (The record
itself is called a cardiogram.)
ca·ress (ka·rcs') 11., v,
n. A tender, loving touch: the curess of her
hand,
v, 'l'o (Ir fondle lovingly and
gently: caressed Iile trec •.
Car.ib'\.;ean (kar'",be'an or ka·rib'e·Jn) Ii.
A sea in the Atlantic Ocean that touches on
the West Indies and on Central and South
America.
car.j.ca·ture (kar'i·kJ,choor) II.; v. car·i·ca·
lured, car,j.ca.!ur,ing
n. 1 A portrayal that u~es exaggerati()1\ or
di,tortiuTl to ridicule or provoke wry alllU"C­
ment: The curlvon cdriwture elltphasizcd th"
candidate's double chin. 2 An inept likeness or
rendition: The corrupt jury lIIade u caricature
01 just-ice.
v. To represent so as lo make ridiclIlouo: Ile
curicature,l !dB opponellt's vicl<'s,--car'i.ca.
tur'ist II.
car·iJ·lon (kar'e.lon or k,;.ril'YJIl) u.
1 A set of bells oil which melodies can l)e
played, often by hammers cOllnected to a
keyboard. 2 An organ stop imitating bells.
car·nage ( kar'nij) n.
A lllaS~ or wanton killing of people: the
carnage 01 b<lltle.
Syn. massacre, slaughter, butchery.
car·niv·o·rous (kiir.niv',,·ras) (Hij.
lVleat-eating: Waives ure camivorous animals.
carp (karp) v.
To find fault in a harsh, unreasonable,
insistent way: lJi.wife kept carpi-ng abo,,;
his low sulury,
Syn. nag, criticize, deplore.
Ant. praise, applaud, flatter.
~
~
--,
~
~ carriage
-~
car.riage (kar/ij) 11.
-"!!I!) I A wheeled vehicle or frame for transport­
ing people or things, often horse-drawn: a
ride through the park in their carriage. 2 A
~ moving machine part that supports or
conveys something: a typewriter carriage.
~ Spelling tip: This word rhymes with and is
spelled like marriage.
car·ri·er (kar'e·ar) n.
~ Someone or something involved in carrying,
conveying, or transporting people or things:
~ Interstate carriers include tmckers, bus com­
panies, railroads, and airlines.
-~ car·ri·on (kar'e·an) n., adj.
n. Dead and decaying flesh; meat unfit for
human consumption: Jackals live on carrior!.
adj. 1 Feeding on carrion: a carrion crow. 2
Resembling carrion.
car·ry (kar'e) v. car.ried, car·ry·ing
To have, transport, support, or include: The
flag carries a motto. He carried a package. 'l'he ~a.tarrh (kG' tar') n.
bridge can carry a lot of weight.
Spelling tip: Words ending iny preceded by
a consonant usually chanj:e the y to i before
any suffix except one begInning with i.
carte blanche (kart' blansh')
Unrestricted authority: They gave him carte
blanche to print controversial views in the news­
paper.
car·tog.ra.phy (kar·tog'fide) n.
The art of creating maps and charts.--car.
tog'ra.pher n. ­ included in a category: a categurical list of
car.tridge lkar'trij) n.
1 A casing containing the powder charge and
usually the bullf!t or sh"t for a firearm.
2 Any container used for holding or mount­
ing a piece of equipment, as a phonograph
needle.
cas·ae·role (kas'a·rol) n.
1 A dish, ofien covered, for baking and
serving food. 2 Food prepared in such a dish.
~ Spelling lip: 'fhe ingredients in this word
include a double 8 and two e's.
~ cas.tj.gate (kas'ta.gat) v. cas.tj.gat·ed, cas.ti·
gat·ing
To censure severely or unremittingly: She
~ endlessly castigated her husband for every
small failing.
~ cas·tle (kas'al) n.
1 In feudal times, the fortress or walled
town where the nobility lived. 2 Any large
~ house or stronghOld. 3 A place of refuge: His
home is his castle.
Spelling tip: Don't pronounce the silent t,
but don't forget to write it.
cas.u.al·ty (kazh'ilO·"J.te) n., cas.u·al·ties pI.
1 An accident, or someone who is injured or
killed ill all accident: an increase in auto­
mobile casual/ies. 2 Someone who is injured,
missing, or killed in hattie: Civilian casual­
lies eil:ceeded those of either army.
cat·a·clysm (kut'.. ·kliz'am) n.
A violent disruption such as a lIood, famine,
or insurrection: The eruption of Vesuvius was
an unforgettable cataclY8m.
8yft. catastrophe, holocaust, disaster.
catholic
cat·a.falque (kat'a.falk) n.
A structure on which a comu rCBts during a
fUlleral.
cat·a·logue (kat''''\og) n.; v. cal·a·logued,
cal·".logu.lng
n. A book, pamphlet, card file, or Jist of
names, titles, or objects, often including
description and ilIustratioll, in some order
convenient for reference: a mail-order
catalogue.
v. To list 01' enter items in a catalogue.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
catalog.
cat·a·ract (\<ai"Hakt) n.
1 A great waterfall or heavy downpour of
water: The rain fell in cataracts. 2 Cloudiness
of the lens of the eye, causing partial or total
blindness.
Spelling tip: Use 1\0 other vowel except (L in
cataract.
Inflammation of the mucous membranes of
the nose and throaL.
cat·e·chism lkut',,·ld,,',;m) n.
1 A manual pre~cnling reJigiu1l8 principles ill
the form of qupstions and answers. 2 Any list
of questions and answers like thb lIsed for
teaching.
cat·e· gor·i· cal (kat'd.gur'i· k"l) "<lj.
1 Defmite; without qualification: his categvr­
ical dellia! of the charges. 2 Pertaining to or
the library books.
Syn. 1 ahsolute, unequivocal, ullrt'h,'rved,
positive, complete, toted.
Ant. 1 partial, tentative, limited, qualilied.
cat.e.go.ry (kat'a.gor'e) n., cat.e.go.ries pl.
A division of any classified system or branch
oK any subject: Poe/ry io otte cate{Jory of
literature.
8yn. class, group, rank, subdivision.
ca·thar·sis (kv-thin'sis) n.
1 Purgation of the bowels. 2 The psycholog­
ical release of buried emotiolls, as in psycho­
therapy. 3 A purifying or purging of pity,
terror, or other emotions, through witnessing
a work of art such as a tragic drama.
ca·thar,tic (ka·thar'tik) n., adj.
n. A medicine used as a laxative.
adj. Purifying; purgative: Vin/eM"i" drama
can be cathartic.
Syn. adj. cleansing, expiatory.
cath·ode (kath' ad) 11.
1 The negatively charged el,'elrod" of a
battery. 2 The element of an elecLron tube
lImt emits electrons.
cath·o·lic (jmth'd.lik or kath'lik) adj.
1 Broad-minded or liberal: a cutlwli" r""pc"t
for different custums. 2 Broad or universal in
scope: a grasp of human hlOw/edge that is
catholic,
Syn. 1 tolerant, generous, cosmopolitan.
2 general, comprehensive, all-embracing.
Ant. 1 provincial, restricted. 2 narrow,
limited.
555

catsup
cat· sup (kech'ap, kach'ap, Or kat'sap) n.
A tomato sauce for meat, fish, etc., often
~
spiced.
Spelling tip: Secondary spellings are ketchup
and catchup.
Cau·ca·sian (k6·ka'zhan or kO·kash'an) n.,
adj.
n. A member of the so-called white race.
adj. I Of or pertainin~ to this group. 2 Of
the Caucasus rellion (m the southwest part
of the Soviet Union).
cau·cus (ko'kas) n.; v. cau·cused or cau'
cussed, cau.cus·jng or cau.cus.slng
n. A meeting of a political group to deter­
~
mine policy: a secret caucus of delegates
supporting the dark-horse candidate.
v. To hold a meeting or conference: They
caucused for an hour before deciding how to
vote.
Spelling tip: Both k sounds are spelled with
ac and both syllables include a u.
cause ce.le·bre (koz sa·leb'r') n" causes
ce .le·bres pi:
French 1 Any famous law case. 2 Any well­
known controversy or cause to which people
have rallied: The fiery death of the Czech
student became a cause cel~bre throughout the
world.
caus·tic ( kOs'tik) adj., n.
adj. 1 Capable of corroding organic tissues,
as lye. 2 Extremely hostile or biting: Ignore
the caustic slurs of your enemy.
n. A caustic substance.
colleagues for misusi11g government funds.
Syn. adj. I burning, corrosive. 2 sarcastic,
n. T.he expression of disapproval or blame;
acerbic, venomous, satirical.
reprimand.
Ant. adj. 2 admiring, flattering, approving.
cau·ter·ize (ko'tQ·riz) v. cau·ter·ized, cnu·tet·
iz.ing
To sear (living tissue) with a hot iron or
caustic substance: The doctor cauterized the
wound.
cav·al·cade (kav'ol·kad' or kav'el·kad) n.
1 A procession on horseback or in carriages.
2 Any parade or sequence of events: the
cavalcade of history.
cav·al.ry (kav'al·re) n., cay·al·ries pI.
Troops that fight on horseback or, more
recently, in armored motor vehicles.
Spelling iip: Do not confuse this word and
Calvary (the place where Christ was cruci­
fied).
cav·i·ar (ka v'tHir) tl.
The salted eggs of sturgeon, often eaten as an
appetizer.
Spelling tip; This word may also be spelled
caviare.
cav·iJ (kay'al) v. cay·Hed or cay·illed, cay·it.
ing or cay.iI.ling; n'
v. To find fault with or raise trivial objections
to: He caviled about tn'ery departure from the
leiter of the la1v.
n. A severe obiection to minor failings: His
cavils over procedure pre~en(ed them from
coping with the emergency.
ceil·jng (se'ling) n .
chief bulk. The cerebrum is assumeu t2
. • The top side of a room. 2 The height of the
the seat of conscious and voluntary prGC~,,,,,
556
cerebrum
bottom layer of clouds. 3 The upper limit set
on something: a wage ceiling.
Spelling tip; Remember i before e except
after c.
cel·er.y (sel'ar.e or sel're) n. ~
A biennial herb whose stalks are used as a
vegetable or in a salad. ~
ce.les·tial (sa·les'chal) adj.
1 Of or huviug to do with heaven, the ~
heavens, or the sky: a celestial map. 2 Having
qualities worthy of a divine origin (extremely
beautiful, benevolent, virtuous, etc.); Bach's ~
celestial music.-ce·\es'tiul.ly ado.
Syn. I heavenly, astral, supernal. 2 exqui­
site, sublime, perfect, divine.
cel·lo (che\'o) n., cel.los pI. ~
A large bass instrument of the violin family,
held between the performer's knees when
played.. . ~
Spelling tip: Tins word, short for vw/01Ocel/o,
may also be spelled 'cello.
~
cen·sor (sen'sar) V., n.
v. To examine, review, suppress, delete, or
change objectionable or forbidden matter in ~
literature, motion pictures, etc.: Parts of
the leller from Russia Iwd been censored. 'Phe
film was cellsored before it was released.
~
n. A person who censors.
cen·sure (sen'shar) v. cen·sured, cen.sur.jug; ~
n.
v. To express disapproval of; condemn; ~
blame: The sellator ~vas censured by his
cen·taur (sen'tor) 11.
In Greek mytlwloyy Olle of a race of mOllster.;
having the head, arms, and tor.o of a man
united to the body and legs of a horse.
cen·trif·u·gal (sen·trif' (y)a·gal) adj.
I Moving or tending to move away from a
center: r.entrifugal rays. 2 Using Cl'lltrifugal
[orce, which is the force that tends to move a
body away from a center about which it is
revolving: a centrifugal pump.
Ant. centripetal.
ce·ram·ics (sa·ram'iks) H.pl.
1 The art of molding, modeling, and baking
clay. 2 Objects made of fired and baked clay.
USIl~e: In definition 1, this word is construed
as smgular and therefore takes a singular
verb: Ceramics is an interesting hobby. Tlw
cer(ltnics we produced are nOlU on displ"y.
cer·e·bral (ser'a·bral or sa·re'bral) adj.
1 Of or having to do with the cerebrum (the
part of the brain controlling conscious proc­
esses) or the brain itself: a cerebral hemor­
rlwge. 2 Having, involving, requiring, or
appealing to the intellect; intellectual: a
drama thai was more cerebral thaI! emotion,,!,
cer·e·brum (ser'a·beam or sa·re'bram) n., cer·
e·brums or cer·e·bra (ser'a·bra or sa·re'brd
pI.
The upper part of the brain, constituting
.­ ...,
~
~
~
~
~
certified check
~
~
cer·ti·fied check (sur'ta·fjd chek)
A check issued by a bank that guarantees
that it is drawn on an account having suf­
~ ficient funds.
ce·ru·le·an (sa·roo'le·~n Or sa·roo'lyan) n., adj.
~ Sky blue.
ces·sa·tion (se·sa'shan) n.
~
A ceasing, either temporary or final; a cessa­
tiun of tlte war for the Christmas IwfidaYB.
Syn. stopping. pause, interruption, suspen­
n. 1 A wide strait: the Enylisli Clw1Iml. 2 The
~ sion, hull.
Ant. continuation, resumption. renewaL
chafe (chaO v. chaCed, chaC·jng
1 To rub so as to wear a way: Tlte tight cu/lar
was chafing his skin. 2 Tu irritate or be
irritated: The long delay chafed her.
cha.grin (shu·grin ' ) n., v.
n. A feeling of annoyance or embarrassment
caused by failure, disappointment. etc.: the
chagrin she felt when publicly insulted by her
husband.
v. To annoy or embarrass: ']'he student wacl
chagrined at failing the exam.
Syn. n. distress, humiliation, mortification.
v. di~trebs, humiliate, mortify.
cbaise longue (shiiz ' long', French shez long')
?I., chaise longues or cbaises longues pl.
A couchlike chair that has a long seat on
whieh the 8itter call Btrdch hix legs. The
term literally means long chair.
eha·let (sha·la' or shal'a) n.
1 A Swiss cottage with a gellLly sloping,
projecting roof. 2 Any cottage built in this
style.
chal·ice (chal'is) n.
1 A drinking cup or goblet, especially a cup
in which the wine is consecrated in a Com­
munion service. 2 'rhe consecrated wine.
chal·lis (shai'e) n.
A light fabric, as of wool, cotton, or a
synthetic. sometimes in a solid color but more
often in a small print.
eha·me·le·on (ka,me'le.an or kd·miH'yan) n.
1 Any of a number of different lizards that
have the ability to change color. 2.A person
who frequently changes his mind, habits, or
disposition: sucl, a chameleon that she 'Would
change her mind three times before deciding on
a luncheon spot.
cham·oil! (sham'e, French sha,mwii') n.,
cham.ois pI.
1 An antelope found in the mountains of
Europe, the Caucasus, and western Asia.
2 A soft leather originally prepared from the
skin of chamois, but now made from the skin
of sheep, goats, deer, etc.
Spelling tip: This word llJay also be ,pclled
charnmy for definition 2.
cham.pagne (sham· pan') 11.
1 A sparkling white wine made in the ar"a of
Chaml;>agne, :I<'rance; also. any wine made in char·la·lan ( sillir'la·tan) n.
imitatIOn of this. 2 The color of champagne
(pale or tawny yellow).
cbangc.a·blc ( chiin'j0-lhll) ,,,tj.
I Likely to change or vary: a WOlll<,m of very
charlatan
cluwgeable moods. 2 Reflecting light so as
to appear of different color from different
points of view: changeable taffda.-change'­
1I·lde.ness n.
Spelling tip: Words ending in ge retain the e
when adding -able.
Syn. 1 inconstant, lluctualing, mercurial.
Ant. constant, unchanging, fixed.
chan.nel (chan',,]) n.; v. chan·ucled or chan·
uelled, "han.nd.iug or chan·ncl.!iug
deep or uavigable part of a river, harbor, etc.
3 Any course or passage through which
fHJlllt'lhing n10ves: a CIUf1Dicl jor breafhing.
4 pl. The oHieiui ruutes of cOlnluunlcation:
I" a larye company you must go throngh
proper channels.
v. To direct, as along or through a channel:
to channel your efforts toward (l specific gual.
Spelling tip: There are two syllahl!!s in this
word and an n in each syllable.
chan· son (shan's,m, French silan'son') n.
A song. This word is taken directly from the
French,
eha·os (ku'os) 1'.
ToLal uisorder or COH[usuon; '.rlw ruu/IL was -itt
chaos after Ihe wild party.
Syn. disarray, turmoil.
Ant. order, calm, harmony.
chap·ur.ral (cllUp'.,·ml') H.
A thick, dense gruwlh, as of tiwarf oak, low
thorny shrubs, etc.
cba·peau (8Im·pCl', Prellch shil·po') n., elm·
peaux or ella·peaus (sha·poz', French sha·
po') pI.
A hat. This word is taken direetly from the
French.
chap·er·on (shap'a·ron) n., v.
n. 1 An older woman who, in eertail1 socieLies,
accolnpanies a yOUllg unInurried wonlan in
public. 2 An older person who supervises a
group of young people, as at a party, dance,
etc.
v. To act as a chaperoll io or for: 10 "I"'perun
a fraternily party.
Etymology; This word is derived from the
}i"'n:lllCh chape, meuning I'eape/' becau~e a
chaperon acts as a protector. It may also he
spelled chaperone.
char·ac·ter·is·tic (kal"ik·ta·ris'tik) 11., adj.
n. A distinctive quality, trllit, or f(!ature: .4,
chaT(lctericliic vf cals is independence.
adj. Making up or showing a special quality,
character, or disposition: a remark charac­
teristic of SOlltevlle with her 'partil:ular pre­
ju<lices.~ -char'ac.ter.js'ti.cal.ly adv.
Syn. II. peculiarity, property, idiusyncrasy.
ad}. typical, particular, idiosyncratic.
cha·riv·a·ri (::;.ha-riv'tl·re'! shiv'J·re / ) ur shii/­
re·va're) n., cha.riv.a·ris pI.
A mock serenade, as to newlywe(ls, per­
formed with tin pans, horns, kettles, eic.
A person who claim, to have skill and
knowledge he does nol possess: .t\ medicol
clwrlalan can (imlllnycT Llilur lif!~.
Syn. lake, quack, imp osler, fraud.
fJ57
 e'!!!!.
~
ehartreuse chiropodist
~
char·treuse (shar·trooz') n., adj. a short slip. 2 A dress hanging straight from
n. 1 A yellow, pale green, or white liqueur the shoulders. ~
made by Carthusian monks. 2 Yellowish SYII. 2 shift.
green.
adj. Yellow-green in color.
che·nille (sha·nel') n. ~
1 A soft. fuzzy yarn of silk, rayon. eOLtan, or

Etymology: This word is derived from La worsted, used for embroidery, fring(;s, etc.

Grande Chartreuse, the chief Carthusian 2 ,<\ fabric made with filling of this yarn, used ~
monastery in France. for bedspreads, rugs. etc.

char.y (chll.r'e) adj. char·i·er, char·i·est Etymology: Chenille is the .!<'reneh word lor ~
1 Cautious; careful; wary: chary of strangers. caterpillar.

2 Ungenerous; stingy: chary of praise. che·root (sha·root') n. ~

Syn. 1 guarded, cirCUmspect, suspicious,
leery, watchful. 2 thrifty, frugal, sparing,
miserly.
A cigar cut square at both ends.
chev·a·lier (shev'a,lir') n.
1 A member of certain orders of knighthood ~
·
Ant. 1 careless, incautious, unwary, reckless. or honor, as the French Legion of Honor.
2 generous, liberal, lavish, extravagant. 2 A knight; gallant; a chevrllier ?IWltrl!ecl on a C!!!!!.
chasm (kaz'am) n.
1 A deep crack in the Earth's surface: The
earthquake opened a steep, gaping chasm. 2 A
spirited steed.
Syn. 2 cavalier.
chic (shi!k) adj. ~
·
divisive difference of opinion: the chasm Smart and stylish: The Duche~s of Windsor
between North and South in the Cilii War. always looks chic. .~
Syn. 1 gorge, ravine, abyss, gap. 2 division, Syn. fashionable, voguich, elegant, modish.

rift, estrangement. Ant. dowdy, frowzy, tacky.

Ant. 2 union, reconciliation. chi.can.er.y (shi·kii'nar·e) 1l. ~

chas·sis (shas'!! or chas'e) n., chas·sis (shas'ez
or chas'!!z) pI.
A framework to which working parts are
aUached, as the frame that supports the
body of a motor vehicle and includes the
wheels, springs, motor, etc.
Spelling tip; Remember the three s's in this
word.
Petty trickery and cunning involving mis­
representation: The gullible jury 100S deceived ~
by the chicanery of u sltyster lawyer.
Syn. deceit, deception, quibbling, subterfuge.
Ant. honesty, veracity, candor. ~
chide (chid)' v. chid·ed or chid (chid), chid·ed
or chid or chid·den (chid'n), chid·ing ~
To scold: 10 chide a child for beillU lazy.

chas·ten (eba'san) v. Syn. relmke, reprimand, criticiz£;, upbraid.

I To correct or discipline through punish­ Ant. praise, commend, compliment, applaud. ~

ment: She chastened her son for striking lhe chief (ch!!O 11., adj.
younger bOll . .2 To moderate; soften: Her n. The leader of a group or organization: an ~
anger toward Mm was chastened by news of his Indian cllief; lite chief of po/ice.

illness. adj. First in rank or importance: the chief

Syn. punish, chastise, castigate.

justice; their chief purpose. f!!I!II!I!.
Ant. reward, praise, applaud, commend.

chas·tise (chas.tiz') v. chas·tised, chas.tis·ing

Spelling tip; Remember i before e.
chiC·fon (shi·fon') n., adj.
n. A sheer silk or rayon fabric.
~
·
To punish, especially by beating: A leather
sirap was used to chastise the disobedient boys. adj, In cooking Having a light, Huffy texture:

a lemon chiffon pie. ~

-chas·tise·ment (chas'tiz·mant or chas·tiz'­
mant) n.
Syn. whip, beat, flog, scourge.
chif·fo·nier (shWa·nir') n.
A high chest
at the top.

of drawers, often with a mirror ~

·
cha·teau (sha.t(l') n., cha·teau" (sha·tOz') pl. Spelling lip: Also spelled ddjfoldlia.

I A French castle or manor house. 2 A

country mansion. chim.ney (chim'ne) n. ~
Spelling tip: French spelling is chdteau. 1 A hollow structure rising above a roof,
serving to carry off fumes, as from a fire­
chat·tel (chat'l) n. place. 2 A glass tube for enclosing the 11ame
~
A piece of personal prol)erty that is not a of II lamp.

house or piece 01 land: 'j'hey auctioned off the Spelling tip: Common nouns ending in 11 ~
furniture and other chattels. preceded by a vowel form the plural by

chauf.feur (shO'far or shO·fur') 11., v. adding 3: boys, day>, chimneys. •

n. A person employed as the driver of a car:
a chauffeur limiting in a Rolls-Royce.
v. To serve as driver for: She chauffeured an
invalid friend to the doctor's office.
Etymology: ChaUffeur goes back to the
French word chauffer, to heat. It originally
chim.pan.zee (chim'pan,ze' or ehim·pan'ze) II. ~
A tree-dwelling anthropoid ape of Africa,
smaller and more intelligent than a gorilla. ~
Syn. monkey.
chi.rop.Q·dist (ka.rop'a.dist Or shQ·rop/a·disq ~
.
n.

meant stoker, a humorous term for a driver

~
A foot doctor.-chi·rop'o.dy n.

in the days of steam-propelled automobiles. Etymology: This word is from the G,0~;_
Syn. v. drive, ride. chir- (hand) + pod (foot), becauec ___ ~

che.mise ( sha·mez') n.
1 A woman's loose undergarment resembling
practitioners originally trealed be,:.

tremities.
~

55&
~
~
~
~
~ chivalrous circumspect
-~ Spelling lip: Remember to include two o's,
narrow watercourse. 4 Informal A parachute:

~ as in foot.

Syll. podiatrist.

His chute failed to open.

Syn. 1 shoot, slide. 3 rapids, flume.

~ chiv·al·rous (shiv/al·ras) adj.

GaHant and valiant, as the ideal knight: a
cj·ca·da (oj·ka'd" or si"ka'dd) n., d.eu·dus or
cj·ca·due (si·ka'de or si"ka'de) pI.
chillalraus gentleman. Also chi·val·ric (shiv'­ A large, four-winged insect, the male having
~ al·rlk ar shl.val'rik) adj.-chiv'at.ry n.
Syn. courteous, knightly.
vibrating membranes that produce a loud,
shrill sound when rubbed with the legs.
~
Ant. boorish, rude, vulgar, cowardly. Syn. locust.
chlo·rine (k16r'en) n.
ci·gar (sigal") n.
A greenish yellow, poisonous gaseous dement
A roll of tobacco lea yes prepared and shaped
~ with a suffocating odor, obtained principally

from common salt, and readily li<juefled.

for smoking.
cig.a.reUe (si!"d.rel' or sig'd'l'et) II.
~ choe·Q·lale (chok'lit or chok'" lit) II.

I A preparalion of cacao nuts roasted and

A tulle of thIll pUI"" {ilbI with u ~mall roll of

finely cut tobaccu for sl1LOking.
;,;"4 ground and usually sweetened and fla vored­
2 A candy or drink made from this. 3 A deep

Spelling lip: The suffix -die mean" ··lillle." A

cigarette is a liltle cigar, just as kitchendle is a
reddish brown color.
little kitchen. The word is sometimes spelled
~ choose khuoz) v. chose (dla;:;), dlO·,;cn (cho'­
zan), choos·ing (chooz'ing)
cigard.

cinch ("inch) n.

1 A band or strap used to fasten a saddle or

~ To select or prefer among alternatives: tv

elioose a gifl; free to pick and choose. pack onto an animal. 2 SluilY An easy or

Syn. pick, decide (on), elect. sure thing: Thai job's a cin,;/t.

~ Ant. refuse, decline, reject.

chord (kord) n.
Syn. 1 girth, surcingle, 2 snap. certainty.

cin·e·ma (sin'a·mil) n.

~ 1 A combination of three or more musical

tones sounded together. 2 A string of a
Chiefly British A motioll picture or Illotioll­

picture theater: the neighbor/lOud cinema.

musical instrument. 3 An emotional re­ Elymology: Cinema comes from the Greek

~ sponse: His plea struck a responsive chord in

the congregation. " In geometry A straight line
ward kinenw, meaning lTIOVenH:nt.

cin.(l.mat.Q.graph (sin'd·mnt'u·graf) II., v.

.. ~ connecting the extremitks "f an are, n. A molion-pIcture camera or projector.

chris· len (kris'an) v. v. 1'0 film with a molion-picture camera.
To name in a furmal ceremony; The priest Spelling lip: Also spelleu kiw",a/oU}'(l)lit.
~ christened Ihe child Irene; 10 christen a ship by
breaking a bottle of champagne over the pruw.
cin.e.ma·log.ra.phy (sin'a·l)l,,·tog'rd.fe) 1/.
The art and process of making mution
~ chron·ic (liron'ik) adj,
I Prolonged or recurrent; chrutlie unresl; a
pictures,·"~cill'e·ma·tog'ra·pher n.
cir·cu·j·(ouS (silr·kyoo',,·tas) adj.
~
chronic diseallc. 2 Babitual: a chronic alcoholic. Roundabout or indirect: He fullowed <l
-chron'j.cal.lyadv. circuitous ru"ute Lu escape detcction.
Usage: A chronic illness continues year in, Spelling tip: Circuil (q. circular course) ",
~ year out. An acute illness comes to a crisis
quickly: chroHic indigeslion; acute appendici­
-0113 (meaning like).
Syn. meandering, devious, zigzag, turtuous.
~
tis. Ant. straight, uimet, unswerving,
Syn. 1 persislent, lingering, conblanl. 2 Con­
ci r·cum·lo·cll·lion ('li r'kdnJ ·]u·ky{j,j 'Mlhm) II.
firmed, inveterate.
Indirect or ruundaboHL expre3~iun involving
~ Ant. I occasiunal, lClmporary.
the use of more worus than neeessary:
-" ehron·i·de (kron'j·k<ll) n.; v. chwn·j·c\ed, "Refrain from perumbuluting on ilw green
ehron·i·cling ~ro'Wing carpel" is (! circumi"cutiol! Jor
n. A detailed historical account 01 events in 'Don't -walk on the yru,'is/'
their order 01 "ccurrence: A chronicle uf Ihe Etymology: Circum- (umutld) "1- l"cutio
Presidenl's term of o[fiCi'. (speaking) .
v. To record in, or in the manner of, such an Syn. woruiness, verbosily, pleonasm, tau­
account: lIe chroniC/I'd Ihe eL'ellts ka<iillg la tology.
Ihe 111m. Ant. brevit.y, coneiseness, terseness.
Syn. n. hi~Lory, l:Ulllal:L v. f(~pUri, liHL dr·cutn·s(~rHH~ (SUI'Jk~Hu·skrlbl) fl. cir·{:Ulll'
churl·jsh (chur'lbh) adj. scribed, cir,cullI·scrib·ing
Rude and ill-tempered: iI churlish brut" 1,,110 I To Sel bound" to; limit: 11i. practical
mutlad menacingly when asked 10 move."~­ worktHg e,fpl!ricnce is circnJascrilied by his
churl'ish·ly adv., churl'ish ·ness n. {~:.clnnne NOHth. 2 '1'0 mark the boul1(laries of:

Syn. HUely, hooris,", Hlolh,n, inHolenl.

fl. field circu[H;;cribcd by a H'iT" j'Ci/tT.

Ant. I'ulite, civil, courteous, well-mannered.

Etymology: CirCH1t!- (aruuud.) + "cribne (to

chute ( shoot) n. write).

I An iHclined trough or vertical passage Syn. 1 restrict, curtail. 2 encompuss, enclose,

down which water, coal, trash, etc., may surround.

pass: an incineralor chule; a laundry chule. cir·cum·spccl (sur'kdm·spel,t) adj.

2 A slide, as for loboggans. 3 A steep, Carefully attentive to all circumstances and

559

citadel
possible consequences, usually involving
prudence and discretion: The circumspect
investor put his money in blue-chip stocks. A
lady always acts in a circumspect manner.
Elymology: CirCllm- (around) + specerc (to
look). .
gives me claustroph()bi(!.~clalls'tro,pho/bic
Syn. cautious, careful, judicious.
Ant. careless, heeqless, recklesH.
cit·a·del (sit'a.dal Or sit'a·del) n.
A fortress or stronghold, especially one over­
looking a tOWll.
Syn. fort.
cite (SIt) v. cit,ed, ci(.ing
1 To quote as authority or illustration: He
f!II!'!!!!.
cited mallY references to ghosts in Shakespeare's
plays. 2 To mention in a report, etc., espe­
~
cially for bravery: The sergeant was cited for
exceptional valor. 3 '1'0 summon to appear in
court.-ci·ta'tion n.
~
civ·il (siv'al) adj.
1 Of or relating to citizens or their govern­
ment: civil affairs; civil service; ci.>il war.
2 Not military or ecclesia~tical: civil mar­
riage; civil la'w. 3 Helating to private rights
and to legal proceedings involving those
rights: Divorce proceedings are a c'ivil court
action. 4 Polite; proper: Keep a civil tongue.
Syn. 4 courteous, amenable, decent.
Ant. 4 rude, surly, gruff, curt.
civ·i·li·za·tioll (siv'a·la,za'shan or siv'a,li·za'­
shan) n.
1 A state of human society characterized by a
high level of intellectual, social, and
cultural development: the advanced civiliza­
tion of the ancient Egyptians. 2 The countries
and peoples thought of as having reached
this stage: European cit>ilizalion. 3 The
cultural development 01 a particular people,
country, or region: the Aztec civilization.
Spelling tip: The spelling of the suffix
-izalion varies in British and American
usage; isation is preferred in England, but not
in the U.S.
c1air·voy·ant (klar,voi'ant) adj., n.
adj. Having alleged unnatural powers to see
or know things not present to the senses: The
medium was clairvoyant about the future.
n. A person who has clairvoyant powers.-­
religious seclusion; a nll.JJUlstery or convent.
clair·voy'ance n.
v. To seclude or confine, as in a cloister.
Etymology: Clairvoyallt comes from French
Syn. n. 1 gallery, passage, arcade, colonnade.
words meaning seeing clearly. '
2 priory, friary, nunnery, abbey.
Syn. adj. psychic, telepathic. n. medium,
clothes (kloz, klothz)n.pl.
spiritualist.
1 Articles uf dres); titH:h HH elialB, suilS 1
clan·des·tine (klan,des'tin) adj.
Kept secret {or a purpose, often for some­
thing illicit or evil: clandc:ltine meeti!igs
bcl1vetn 10vers.-c1an.des'tine.ly adv.
Syn. secret, furtive, stealthy, surreptitious,
underhand.
Ant. aboveboard, open, candid.
clar·i·fy (klar'a·fi) v. clad.tied, clar.j.fy.ing
1 To make or become clear or understand­
able: The speaker clarified his previous
remarks. 2 'fa make or become clear or pure;
free from impurities: to clarify melted butter.
-clar'i.ti·ca'tion n.
560
~
~
coalesce
Syn. 1 elucidate, explain, expound. 2 purify,
refine.
Ant. 1 confuse, ollfuscate.
.,.
~
c1aus.lro.pho.bi.a (kI6s'tr,,·fo'be·a) n.
A fear of enclosed or small spaces: Au elevator
!!!!l!!!!!.
adj. I!!!!!!!!!!I.
Elymology: Ctal1siropiluuia eo Illes lmm the
Latin claustrum (a closed place) and the ~
Greek root -phobia (fear).
cleft (kleft) adj., n. ~
adj. Divided partitll\y or completely: He was
born with a cleft patate.
n. 1 A division or indentation bi,twecn two
parts, as of a hoof, chin, etc. 2 A fissure or
crack: He dropped Iris watch in, a cleft between
two rocks.
Syn. adj. lli~ecte<l, split. 1!. 1 notch, split.
2 crevice, gap, split, cranny.
c1em·a·tis (klem'a,tis or kli·ma'tas) n.
One of a large gruup of climbing, ornamental ~
plants. often having purple or white flowers.
c1em·en·cy (klem'an,se) 11-, clem'en,des pl.
1 Gentleness and leniency, especially toward ~
offenders: '1'he judge exerci$ec1 clemency. 2 An
act of mercy or leniency. 3 Mildness of ~
weather: !fte dcmency of a JUlie clay.
Syn. 1 mercy, forhearance. 3 fairness.
~
eli·clle (kle·sha') n.
An expression tha t has been used so often
that it has become dl!1I and ordinary: "lInppy ~
as a lark" is a familiar cliche.
Syn. banality, platitude.
cli·en·tele (kll'an·tel') n,
The clients of a doctor, lawyer, etc., or the
usual customers of a store, hotel, etc.: The
store catered to a ww!llty clientele.
cli·mac·tic (kli·mak'tik) adj.
Having to do with Or constituting a climax:
The mUl'licr is tlte l'/ay's climactic moment. C!!!!.
Spelling lip: Don't cOllIu"c climactic with
climatic, which rdcrB to climate.
clois·ter (klois'tar) n., v. ~
n. 1 A eovered walk along the inside walls of
a building or around a cuurtyard, as in a ~
college or monastery. 2 A building used for
~
~
,
dresses, etc. 2 Bedclothes, ~
Spelling tip: See CLOTH.
Syn. 1 nlllUent, gann<:nts, clothing, army. ~
2 linens. ,
c1otll·j·er tkltitll'y<H') Ii. ~
A retailer of clothing, especially men's
~
clothing.
Spelling tip; Pronounce this wonl with two
syllables, but spell it with three.
~
Syn. haberdasher, tailor.
cO.8·lesce (ko'a,leg') v. co.a.Jesced, co.a.lcbdn~
To grow or come together into one: A. /H',';'.C
of 8mall businesses coalesced inlu II :_ -,
~
-~
.-4
~
~
~
~
~
coalition
~
corporalioH.-co'a·!es'cence n., co'a·leg'cent
~ adj.
Syn. fuse, blend, unite.
~ co·a·H·lion (ko'a·Ush'an) n.
1 A temporary alliance of persons, parties, or
~
states: The farmers formed a coalition to raise
fann prices. 2 The uniting of separate things
into a single body or group: ~"he coulitiun of
~ water u"d oii is impussible.
coarse (k&rs) w/j.
~ I Lacking refinement or delicacy: Gangsters
ofien speak in a coarse -;nalilla. 2 Composed
of large parls or particles; not fille in texture:
~ coarse gruvel; course wit.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse course with cuurse
Gi:"--l (a program of study).
Syn.l gross, vulgar, earthy, crude, indecent.
Ant. 1 civilized, decorous, gentle. 2 fille,
Ani. haphazardnes~, disconnectedness, loose­
~ refined.
eo·eoa (k6'ko) n.
I A powder made from the roast(·d husked
seed kernels of the cacao; choc~l~te. 2 A
beverage made from this.
~
co·co·nut (k6'kG·nul' or k6'k0'Il<Jl) 1<.
The fruit of the coconut palm, a large lIut
~ with white meat enclosed in a hard shell and
containing a drinkable milky liquid.
Spelling lip: This word may also be spelled
-~ cocuanut.
co·coon (ka·koon') 11.
~
-..., The protective envelope spun by the larvae
of certain insects, as moths, silkwonns ete,)
1
ill which they remain while undergoing the
stages of development into adulthood.
eod·j·cil (k"d''''8'']) n.
1 An additiun to a will. changing or explain­
ing something in ic: When Louis' grant/soH
was born he added a cudicil 10 his will be­
queulhillQ tI,e child muney for a college edac«­
tion, 2 An appendix or addition, as to a piece
of writing in order to correct errors, provide
additional information, etc.
Syn. 1 addendum, clause, 2 sUPlllement.
co·cree (ke·Qrs') u. co.ereed, co.ercing
To compel (a !Jerson) Ly use of aUlhorily.
force, or threats to act in a certain way: 2'l1e
witness "'(IS coerced illtu silence through fear of
persona! /wrm.--co·er·cion (ku·ur'shdn) n.
co· gent (k6'jant) wlj.
Appealing to the mind so as lO influence it
powerfully; a cogent «rgumenl JUT wlliny «
ceusc-jire.---co'gen.cy iL, co'gent.ly "dl'.
Syn. forcdul, convincing, persuasive,
Ant, weak, indIeetual, ine/I"ctive.
cog.i·taLe (koj',,·tal) v. cog·j·!ul·ed, cog·j.lal.
ing
'I'll gi,," cardul thought to sOllll'ti,ing;
ponder; meditate: 11e was collilulillg ,n, Ih,
err(Jr~ he 'Ilwtif' in tlte i'xum.
I;;yn. reflect, cOHtemp]u!".
co·gnac (kon'yak ur kon'yak) n.
Brandy, especially a type produced in the
Cognac reglon of western France.
cog·ni·zllnt (kog'n;}·zant) «dj.
lla ving knowledge, especially "pc!:;al or
certain knowledge at! from fir£t-haml
collateral
sources (used with : AWwuyli oj
his O'lOU 'U)cakuc;)i)cs,
the job.-o·,cog'ni,zallce n~
WH$ sure do
Syn. aware, informed.
Ant. una ware, i~noraHt.
co·here (kG·hif') n, co·hered, co·hef·jug
1 To stick or hold lirrnly [,,;.;ether: 'Phe grail'"
of damp salt cohered. 2 Tn be logically (:on­
n~eLvil; lJ(~ cOrlsi;;lent, as tilt: parLs!lf a :.;tllry,
--co·her'"nl uilL co·\wr'enl.jy ,,<II".
I;;YII. 1 cling, adhere.
to·hcr·encc O-;o-bir/dllt» 'iI.
A Slicking tog-elh(:,r; logieal eonneeliun: Tilt'
e::i;:Hlij lackt:d coh{ tenee of lIw!l!lht, dwelling VH
lou nuwy d£jJcreul and 'u.nrela[ed ;:;ltbjccl~.
Syn. cohe~ion, cunjUltCLion, congruity! cull­
sistency.
ness, inconsistency.
co·he·siva (ko·he'z\l",,) It.
I The act. or state of sticking together:
culi".ion of frcewurld i. buscd Oil
trust and 2 1 tL 'Ih!l~ic.'i Tht.! force
wllid! mlJlt:el1h~:; o[ tLI: 0ame kind or of
.sante body are ht~ld lug{~thel'.
coif·fUl'C (kwa·fyiiOr') II.; I'. coif.furcd, eoif.fnr·
ing
-n. 1 A style of arranging (;r
111 urie A litvilli'ilc'$ daborule
headdress.
v. To ures;; the hair: ('oilIufid for a Satu.rday
night dali:.
Syn • .n. 1 hairdo. I'. coif.
cll·in·ci·dcnl (l;iliu'sd·d.IlIt) <!lU_
I Occurring at exaclly the time: 11i.,
arril.:al a{ the }/(JH~(, was Icith win Co
2 In exact agree:nwnt; harnlonious: }fer
tastes 'were CUlHCiJud Ii'itlt hcr Juo:;buml'ti. co­
in'd·dcnl.ly ad".
Syn. 1 Bimullaneo\t::5. Z collldt1111g) c(Jrt'e::spOI1­
ding, indislinguishoble, lille.
col·an·dcr (ku]',1ll,dJr or kul'dIl·dJrj II.
A bowl-shaped perforatot! kitchen ulen~i1
used as u ::;trainer,
col·lal)o()·ralc (kJ·lal/d·ran I'. {'ol,lah.().ral.ed,
co!.lnb·o.ral.ing
1 To cuoperute {J1" \,'urk logethC:l\ as uU a
literary or ~dentitie proj(~et: Tile!! ('ullllbo­
raied V'll rc,ieHrching til(. b()oA:. 2 Tu {~ou~pit'e ur
work traitorously with tllLl Til" Fn'lI"h
ullrlergrulmd tdlliiale,l /I","" ",I,"
cuI/aboral,",} willt 111,' Nazi,. ,·ul·lab'o.r,,'­
tioll, {;ol·lal/o"ra'lur fI,' (·ol.lai,'u·ra'tivc
adj.
col·late (k,)· I<it' VI' ""I'll!.) v. coUaled, col.la!·
ing
1 fro as,~t'lllld,~ jwg,:s u[ a IHallll;,;,'rilJl, ,de., ill
prop!:!' I:lnler: 1'hl' ;.;c't:rdar{j ,'oUatt if the [OOSt'
sh(.'d;~ Hf the rt'jJorl uwl ;;lauln1 ('Udl c(lmJJ/dr
::set. 2 Ttl con1pare critieally, as \vritings or
faccB: Sdw/urs collukd all e"',tillY cupi,," (Jf
Ihe Siwiccspwre Polio. -col·\a·lor (k~·la'LJr
or koVa'Lar) n.
eoUal·cr.al (k,,·lal.'')h)i) ",Ij., Ii,
wlj. SecundarYI varalld~ or additiunal: 'file
5Gl
-~------------------
~ollation
danger of plague was a collateral factor in
causing the besieged town to surrender.
n. Money or valuables put up as security for
com·bus·ti·ble (kam·bus'ta·bal) adj., n.
a loan: A deed to the land was accepted as
collateral by the bank.
Sl'n. adj. subordinate, supporting, corrobora­
n. Anything easily burned.
tive, concomitant.
col·la·tion (ka·la'shan) n.
I The act of collating. 2 A light, informal
~
meal.
col·lo.qui.al (ka·lo'kwe·al) adj.
Ant. plain, awkward, homely.
~
Characteristic of familiar conversation;
com·i·cal (kom'i·bl) adj.
informal.-col·lo'qui.al·ism' n.
Funny; ludicrou~: U cU1nicul cartoUH.
col·lo·quy (kol'a·kw~) n., col·lo·quies pI.
I Conversation, especially a formal con­
ference: Several nations engaged in a colloquy
on disarmament. 2 A literary piece written in
dialogue form.
Syn. I discussion, talk, symposium.
col·lu·sion (ka·loo'zhen) n.
A secret agreement to achieve improper or
illegal ends: the collusion of enemies.
co·logne (ka·liln') n.
A fragrant liquid consisting of alcohol and
aromatic oils, used like perfume.
Spelling tip: Remember the silent g.
colo·nel (kur'nal) n.
In the U.S. Army, a commissioned officer who
ranks above a lieutenant colonel and below
a brigadier general.
co·los·sal (ka·los'al) adj.
I Of immense size: a colossal skyscraper.
2 Informal Beyond comprehension or
credibili ty: colossal pride.
Syn. I huge, gigantic, tremendous, titanic,
vast, mammoth.
Ant. I tiny, minuscule, rniniature, small,
miniaturized, infinitesimal.
col·umn (kol'am) n.
1 A pillar: the columns of the Parthenon.
2 Something that suggests or is shaped like a
column: to add a column of figures; a spinal
column. 3 Printed matter arranged in lines of
narrow widlh, as in a newspaper.
Spelling tip: The u and the silent n are the
troublemakers here.
co·ma (ko'ma) n.
A condition of stupor or pathological un­
consciousness: T_~e accident left him in a cuma.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse this word with
comma, the punctuation mark.
co·rna·lose (ko'ma·tos or kom'a·tos) adj.
1 Having to do with coma or unconscious­
ness: 'i'he Co1tcussion left him in a comatose
state. 2 Torpid; lethargic: The hot wealher
made hint feel comatose.
Syn.2 lazy, sleepy, dormant.
daily neces:;ities.
comb (kom) n., v.
com·mis·sion (ka·mish' an) n., v.
n. 1 A toothed instrument for grooming or
fastenin& hair: Jeweled combs held her hair in
place. 2 The fleshy crest 01\ the head of a fowl.
P. I To groom hair with or as with a comb.
2 To search carefully and exhaustively:
They combed the haystack for the missing
needle.
562
~
commission
~
Spelling tip: "B" wary of words that end in a
silent b-comb, lamb, bomb, climb, limb, etc. ~
adj. Readily ignited; flammable: Oily rugs arc
highly combustible.
~
come·ly (kum'le) adj. come·ii·er, comc·ii·est ~
Of pleasing appearance; handsome; graceful:
nur~(jra lind Joe were a comely YUHlIY cuuple.
Syn. attractive, pleasant.
Syn_ humorous, laughable, silly. ~
Ant. sober, serious, solemn, dour.
com·ma (ko~'a) n. ~
A punctuation mark (,) indicating a slight
separation in ideas or in grammatical con­
struction within a senlence. ~
com·man·dant (kom'an·dant' or kom'an·
dant') n. ~
A commanding otficer, as of an installation,
school, or military district. ~
corn·mall·decr (kom'vn.dir') v.
1 '1'0 force into military service or seize for
public use: A policeman may commandeer ~
a passing taxicab in an emergency. 2 I nforrnal
To seize by force or compUlsion. ~
Syn. appropriate, confiscate.
com·mence (ka·mens') v. com·mcnced, com·
menc.ing ~
To start or begin: Commence firi I/g!
Spelling tip: Note the two m's.
Ant. end, finish, complete.
com·men·su·rate (ka·men'sha·rit or ka·men'­
sa·rit) adj.
1 The same in scope or size: Our actiol1s are
seldom commensurate with our ideals. 2 In
proporlion: The (j"uaiily i::l COJHill{'1UHlrate with
the cost.-com.men'su.rate.ly adv.; com·
men'su·rate·ness, conl.nlen/su·ra'tion n.
com·merce (kom'ars) n.
The exchange of malerials and goods; trade:
[hUh tariffs rc,trict CO"!1/,crcc.
Spelling tip: Don't forget the two ·,11'8 or the
two c's.
com·mis·er·ate (ka·miz' ,Hat) v. com.mis.er.
at·ed, com·mis.er.at·ing
1 To feel or express pity for: Dun't just CUJll­
miserate; help the survivors. 2 To sympathize:
He cOlJlI'li"erated with lhe injured strikers.--­
com·mis'er·a·/tion n.
Spelling tip: As an aid to remembering the
double m, note that this word is from the
Latin COTr/- (with) + miserari (to feel pity).
com.mis.sar·i·at (kum'a.sar'c·al) JI.
A military agency responsible for fuud and
n. 1 The act uf entrusting something to
another, the thing Imtrusted, ur the fec given
to an agent for such action. 2 A document
conferring military rank, or the rank itself.
3 A body of persons authorized to perforrr.
duties, or the authorization conferring "'
commanding such powers. 4 The act of de _
~

commit complement
~
or perpetrating (opposed to o1nission): His com·pat·i.ble (kdm·pat'a·bel) adj.
~ attempts at bribery were a patent Sill of com­
mission.
Capable of getting along together or filling
in: Despite differences, Juek Spratt alld his
~
II. To give rank; appoint; empower; delegate: wife were cumpatible.-col\l'\Hll'i.bil'j·ly n.
A panel was commissioned to study (lir
Syn. congenial, agreeable, complementary.
pollutioll.--com·mis'sion.er n.
Ant. incompatible, at odds, discordant.
~ Spelling tip: Double both the m and the s.
rom· pel (k"m·pe!') v. com·pclled, "om·pcl·ling
com· mit (kv'mit') v. com·mit·led. com.mit.ting To urge irn;l3i;.;t.ibiy; illn'c:: lff' ll'{l;i compdlnt
~ 1 To do; p"rlorm: to commit an evil act. 2 To
entrust, pledge. or refer (or consideration:
tv ",Imit his bankruptcy.
Spclling lip: Apply the same rule as for
lie committed himself to helping others. commit: Word:; ending in an a<:ccnted vowel­
~ Spelling tip: Words ending in a consonant
preceded by a single vowel, with an accllnt
consonant double the consonant before
SUIli""H bcgiHllillg with a vowd (compelkd,
.-?~ on the last syllable, double the final conso­ compel/iag).
nant bE!fore adding a suffix beginning with a Syn. make, constrain, enjoin.
vowel-committed, forgetting, occurred, con­
~---~ trolling.

com·pel1.di·um (k"m.pcn'de·am) II., pl. cOlli·

pen.di·urns or com.pen,di.a pi.
com·mit·tee (ka·mit'eJ n.
A brief, COlTlIJTehensive al>l'idgmclll: The
~ A. group of people chosen La perform certain

tasks: the Senate committee.

o!JeIling chapler i, " c"/II}"cndialll (If liw le/lOle

book.
Spelling tip: Committee is the only word in
Syn. summary, digest, pr8cts, abstl'llet,
~ the followmg troublesome series to contain
synopsis.
three doubled letters: cummit, commitment,
CU!11·pc·tcnce (kom'p,,·tJllS) 1'­
~
commilled, committal, cummittee.
The state of being competent; ahility: the

com·mo·di·ous (ka·mo'dii·as) adj. doctor's professional competence.

Having a great deal of room; spacious: They

~
have a commodious seven-Toom apartment.
Syn. ample, capacious, vast, roomy.
~ Ant. confined, small, crowded, close.
com·mu·nal (kom'ya.nal or ka·myoo'nill) adj'
~
~
Ha ving to do with or belonging to a com­
munity; a communal July 1; celebration.
com·mu·ni·cate (ka·myoo'nil·kat'j v. com·
mll.ni.ca[.ed, com·mll·ni·cat.ing
To eause another to understand or ~hare in;
convey knowledge of: U is possible to lalk
with someone and slill nut communicale.-­
com·mU'ni·ca'tion 71­
Syn. expertise, capability, knowledge.
Ant. incompelence, ignorance, ineptitude.
com.pe·tent (kom'p,,·tJnl) adj.
Capable or adequate: " competent but lIn­
inSlJiring pi!lnist.~~ com'pe.lenl.ly aelv.
Spelling lip: Remember the e's in thi:; word.
Syn. skilled, able, efficient, trained.
Ant. inept, blundering, amat(mrish.
com.pe·[j·tion (kom'pa·tish'iln) n.
1 An attempt to excel others or to vie with
others for the attainment oj a goal: Two
t>upennurketa wtre in (·olll.pdilion fur ba~'iHC0$.
2 A cl.lntesL: an «(hldle compditilJ71.

Spelling tip: Double the m and include

Spelling lip: Note the e, as in compr:te.

every vowel.

Syn. impart, convey, transmit.

com· pile (kan1·pil') v. cOIII.piled, cOIlI,pil.jng
com.mu·ni·que (ka·myoo'na,ka' or kil·myoo'­ To assemble or compose from various
nil·ka') n. sources: 'Til<' (;""'1/S iJurwtl c(flls/unllv cum­
piles nelV 1'''plllatiun eslimates.~coln'Jlil'er,
A.n official bulletin: The President sent a com'pi.ta'tion n.

communique to all foreign embassies. Syn. gather, accumulate, list.

com·mu·ni·ty (ka·myoo'na·te) n., cOll\·rnu·ni· com·pla.cent (kdnl·pla's;mt) adj.

ties pI.
1 A group oj people living in the same local
area and sharing common interest~, customs,
etc.: a community of ltippies. 2 The district
or area in which these people live; a subur~
ban community.
cum·mu·tcr (k,,·myoo'l<Jr) It.
Salisfied wilh oneself; smug: I~al'l/J ""eel'S"
7iwdc hint complucc'nl, and from then un he
1IC!'a tried to iml'ro!'e.~com.pla'ccnt.ly adv.,
com.pla'.cen.cy n.
com,plai·sant (kDm·pl:l.'zent) ailj.
\Villing to please: If .. "''''' Zilch'V to lind"

complaisant Iww.wkcc}JCT.-- COlll.plaj'::;uncc 1I.

One who regularly travels some distance Syn. agreeable, good-humored, yielding,

between his home and place of work. compliant, ohedit'llt.

com.pa·ra·ble (kom'par'd,bJI) adj. Ant. intransigenL, stuubOl'H iIl.i1l.~xihli.::.

Capable or worthy of comparison: Arc cum'l'le·IlH,nt O,,,m'plv-m,ll1t II., kom'pld'

A,merican League ba.cb"ll teams colttpurable to mont v.l II .• v,
Natiana! League teams!--com'pa.ra,bil'i.ly n. ;,;omelhing thal compleles, lill; up, 01'

n .• com'pa.ra,bly adv. makes perfect: lyrics that (PUc" ",urvc/olts

com·par·a·tive (kam·par'a·tiv) adj. COlI(p/elilcllt 10 Ihe IIIlIsic.

1 Having to do with the noting of likenesses ~. To make complete, fll in with, or supply a

and differences: .4 shrewd bUller ,,,,. Ilw lack in: ({crt winc; cmnplemc:ntN 111nil.

comparative instinc€. 2 Relative: .4 true b!ond Etyltl()Jogy ~ CfJltljJle1tWHt and c{unpi( tlJ \.~{Hlle

is a "omparative rarily.·~~com,pllr'a·tive.ly from the Bame Latin word, com!,l"f" (to flll

adv. thoroughly) .

563

complexion
com·plcx·ion (kern'plek'shan) n.
1 Skin color: a fatr complexion. 2 Character
or quality: the serious complexion of the
world situation.-eom.plex'ion.al, com.plex'­
loned adj ..
Spelling tip: Be x-tra careful spelling this
word.
com· pli·ance (karn·pli' ans) n.
The act of complying or yielding: Courts
enforce compliance with their directives.
Syn. obedience, acquiescence.
Ant. defiance.
com.pli·ant (kern'pli'ant) adj.
Submissive or Yielding, as to the wishes or
pressure of another person: The cOll!pliapt
secretary (lflreed to lake work home.
~
Syn. due;I(', tlexible, pliable, complyinll.
con.cciv·a.blc (k""-S0V',"\,,,I) adj.
Ant. intractable, stubborn, resistant.
Possible to uelieve: It is //Urdly cOilc~ivablc
com·pli.men! (kom'pl,,·mant n., kom'pl".
ment v.) n., v.
n. 1 An expression of praise, congratulation,
or flattery: She loved hia complime11ts, 2
Usually pI. A formal greeting or remem­
brance: Send my compliments to your father.
v. 'fo praise; She complimented hilll on his
good taste.
com.po.nen! (kam-po'nant) H.
An element or part: the audiu componcnt of a
television set.
Syn. constituent, unit, ingredient.
com.pro·mise (kom'pra-mlz) 11.; v. com·pro­
mised, com.pro.mis.ing
n. An adjustment or settlement by mutual
concession.
v. 1 To make a mutual adjustment or setlle­
ment; We compromised on my salary demands.
2 To expose to risk, suspicion, or disrepute:
Staying out all night on a date may compromise
your reputation.
comp·tro!·!er (ken.tro'lar) n.
An administrator responsible for fiscal
planning and control; as of budgeting,
accounting, and tax procedures.
Spelling tip: Also spelled controller.
com-pul·sioll (kam·pul'shan) n.
1 The act of compelling, or the state of being
compelled: The police used physical compul­
sion to disperse the crowd. 2 In psychology All
irresistible impulse to perform an irrational
act: a compulsion to make obscene telephone
calls.
Syn. 1 force, constraint.
com,plll·so·ry (kam·plll'sar·e) adj.
Required; obligatory: compulsory military
service.
Spelling tip: 'l'wo o's are compulsory in this
electronics concern.
word.
con·cor·io (kan·cher'lO) 1<., CI.III·ccr-\os or
Syn. mandatory.
con·ccr·tj (ken-cher'e) pl.
Ant. optional, elective.
A musical composition performed by a solo
<:om·punc·tion (kem·pungk'sban) n.
l Uneasiness stemming from a sense of
guilt: He felt no compunction about wiping out
his business competitors. 2 A slight regret: He
lelt some computlction about leaving the party
early, but he had no choice.
564
?II:
!It
concerto
-..=­
~
put.lng
...
com·pute (kam·pyoot') v. com·put.cd, com·
ell
'1'0 find out (a number or amount) by calcu­
lating: Compute the area by Inuttiplyinglength
by widih.-com'pu.ta'tion n.
S)'n. figure out, reckon.
con·cave (kon·kav') adj. ~
Hollow and curving inward, a3 the interior of
a bow\'-con·cav·i·ty (kan-kav'a·te) n.
Ant. convex.
es
con· cede (lean.sed') v. con-ced·cd, con·ced-ing ~
To acknowledge as trlle, correct, or proper;
admit: The eyewitness conceded under ques­
tioning that he might hace been mistaken. ~
Syn. grant, confess, allow.
Ant. deny.
that he failed the /·xuI/I.--con-ceiv'a.bly adv. ~
Spelling lip: E before i when a c you spy.
Syn. beJieval.Jle, crediule.
Ant. inconceivable, incredible, unUeJievable.
con·ccive (kan<sev') v. cOIl-ceivcd, con.ceiv·ing
1 '1'0 become pregnant. 2 To form a notion of;
understand or imagine: to cunceive of a l1'orld
in 'Which all men ore treated e<l'U<Ii!y.
Spelling tip: See CONCEIVAllLE.
con,cell·trate (kon's;m·lrat) v. con.cen·lral-ed,
con·cen·trat·ing
1 To draw or direct 10 a comlllon jloinl: to
concenlrate Imops. 2 To direct one's attention:
to concentrale on learni1lg It"lim/.-- COU'CCIl'
tn,'Hun 1/.
Spelling tip: Concentrate 011 the two c·s.
Syn. focus.
Ant. 1 disperse, diffuse, spread out.
con·cell·tric (kan·sen'trik) adj.
Having a common center, as a circle within a
circle: Targets often consist of concentric
circles.
con.cep·lion (kan-sep'shan) n.
1 The act of conceiving; the onset of Jlreg­
nancy. 2 The forming of an idea, or that
which i8 conceived mentally: (! noble co/rcep­
tion of the role of the U.S. in 1i/(!ill/ai1ting
freedom.
COil· cern (kan-surn') D. n.
v. 1 To relate or pertain to: IiolO does that
concern me? 2 '1'0 affect with anxiety: His
illness concerned me deeply. 3 To occupy the
attention or mind of (reflexive or jJassive
word often followed by with or iu): Ie con­
cerns himself wilh petty dd<tils.
n. 1 That which relates or pertains to a
person: J{i~ salary is -liD concern of ,(Iline. 2
Anxiety or interest: my concern for her in
this difficult time. 3 A business enterprise; an
instrument or Instruments accompanied by
an" orchestra.
Spelling tip: Concerto, an Italian word, iakto
an Italian i plural. An English plural,
ventionally formed by adding s, is _
acceptable.
­
..
~

concession COli flagration

~ con·ees·sion (kan·sesh'an) 11. . con·do·lellce (kan·do'lans) n.

~ 1 The act of conceding or yielding, as to a
demand, point of argument, etc. 2 Anything
Sympathy, as expressed to a perSOll sulfering
from grief, sorrow, etc.: Please exlcnd my
so yielded. condolence to the witlow.
~ con·dl·i·ate (kan·sWe·at) v. con.cil·j·at·ed. con· eon·done (ken· don') v. con·doned, con·doll.jng
cil·j·at·jng To overlook an offense or treat it as if it had
~ 1 To overcome the hostility or mistrust of:
7'he medialor was able to conciliate both sides.
not haPJlened: This government will not con­
done actions that tram pic the "Fights of ulhers.
~
2 To make compatible or consistent: It is Syn. forgive, Jlardon, excuse.
impossible to conciliate my salary demands and
his offer.-con.cil'i.a'tion, con·cil'i·a/tor n. con·duit (kon'dit or kon'docdt) n.
~
1 A channel or pipe for conveying water or
con·cise (kan'sis') adj. other liquid. 2 A pa~sage or tube for electric
-,
Expressing much in brief form: Dictionary
definitions must be concise.-con.cise'ly adv.,
con.cise'ness n.
wires.
SYI!. 1 aquc()uct, canal.
cOIl·fer·ence (kon'far'dns or Iwn'fruns) n.
Syn. compact, terse, succinct.
oOl!-Jt Ant. lengthy, voluminous, expanded. A discussion on some important matter, or a
meeting at which "ueh a discussion tal«'s
con·com·j·tant (kon·kom'a·t:mt) adj.
plac(': t1 confcre?lce U1I :rwdcttl' di~artH(IIiLt'ill.
~ Existing or occurring together: A tax

increase was a concomitanl effect of the

Spelling tip: No malter bow you pl'OIWUnCe

this word, remember to write all three
~
expanded war effor!.-con.com'i.tant·ly adv.
syllables.
Syn. attendant, concurrent.

Ant. unrelated, unconnected.

cOII·Ii·danl (kon'fa·dant', kon'f,,·dlint', kon'­
~ cun ·cord (kon'kord) n.
Unity of feeling; agreement: The U.N.
f,,·dant, or kon'f,,·diint) n.
A persoll to whom one confides secrets or
personal confidences: m!J dearest friend and
~ strives 10 achieve concord among nalions.-con·
cor' dance n.
long-lime ronfidallt.
Spelling tip: A cunfidante (pronounced the
... -~ Syn. accord, peace, harmony.
Ant. discord, disharmony.
same as conji<ianl) is a female confidant. Do
not confuse these two words with confident
con· crete (kon'k,fit or kon·krel') adj., n • (assured).
.,~ adj. Specific or actual: Foster Parents' 1'1011 ton·fi·denl (kon'fa·dant) "dj.
is a concrete way to help needy children. Having confidence; sure of oneself: l1ewos
n. A buil<iinll material conHisting of sand and
conjident Ih"t iw Wl<ld i/o {he jul;. ,.",,'Jj.
~ gravel or broken roek, held together by

cement.-con.crete'ly ado., con·crete'ness n.

dence n., con /1j.denl.ly ({(iv.

Syn. assured, certain, "clf-u,;sured.

~ Syn. adj. particular, real.

Ant. adj. general, imaginary.

Ant. doubtful, dubious, uncertain.

cOll·n·den·lial (kon'f'Hien'Klhll ) adj.

~
con·cur·rence (kan·kQr'an~) n.
Cooperation or agreel1jent to bring about
some result: Congressional concurrence was
~
necessary before the trade agreement could be
ratified.
~ con·cur·ren! (k;:,n·kClr'ant) adj.
Occurrinj together or at the same time or
place: 7'1VO concurrent events, expanding
~ lI.Iorld population and increased technology,
have urged men to the M oon.-con.cur'rent·ly
~
adv. .
con·cur.ring (kan·kf\r'ing) adj.
~
Agreeing or approving: a cO)lcurring judicial
opinion.
Ant. disagreeing, contrary.
con·de'Bcend (kon'di·send') v.
I To come down voluntarily to equal terms
with inferiors: The prince often condescended
to chat with his subjects. 2 To lower oneself to
do something: Her boss lVould not even
condescend to get his own coffee. 3 To act in a
superior or patronizing way: a social worker
condescending 10 a prison inmale.-con'de·
scend'ing.ly adv., con/de·scen'sion n.
Syn. 2 deign. 3 patronize, look down on.
con·di·menl (kon'da·mant) n.
A sauce, relish, spice, etc., used to season
food.
1 Given iIl confideu(;e; llH.'ant to be secret:
confidential infurmation. 2 Intimate: a COllji­
dential lone.-con'fi.den'Ual.!y adj.
Syn. I private, secret. 2 friendly.
Ant. 1 public, general. 2 distant, reserved.
con·!ir·ma·tioll (kun'f..n··mu',benl Ii.
I That which confirms; proof: The Iact that he
did not try to jlce waa cOlljirmatioll 01 liis
innocence. 2 Formal apJlroval and accept­
ance: We awaited Senale conjinnaliun of tilt
['re,jci<",l'" nominee. 3 A religious cercmuny
in which a person is admitted to all the privi­
leges of the church.
eon·Cis·cate (kon'fis·k,it) v. con·fis·cat.ed,
con·fis·cat·ing
To seize or appruprial" as for public use or
in Jlayment of son\(! obligation: Mexican
farm holding,; a'ere ,·""fiscatcd alld redislrib­
uted to Ihe p"".anls.- con'lls.ca'tion n.
con.fis·ca.to·ry (k"nfis'k,,·tor'e) adi.
Of the nature of ()r r"Kulting from eonfisca­
lion: a confisciltory acliof! inc'olviny ",illions
of dollars.
con.fta.gra·tioll (kon'll,,·gl·ii'shan) n.
A great and widely uestructive fire: Tire
saluration bombing of Drc"lcn in IVa rid War
II caused a conflagration that leveled the city.

565
conformity
~on·form.i·ty (kan·{or'ma·te) n.
1 Correspondence in lorm, manner, etc.:
Confonnity of like parts is essential in mass­
producing goods. 2 The habit of conforming:
Hippies reject conformity to middle-class
con ven/ions.
Syn. 1 agreement, con~ruity.
AnI. 1 disagreement, difference.
con.geal (kiln·jel') v.
To change from a fluid to a solid condition:
The custard congealed after being refrigerated.
Syn. harden, solidify.
Sy". expert, critic, cognoscente.
Ant. melt, soften, liquefy.
Ant. amat.eur, novice.
cou.gen·ial (kan·jen'yal) adj.
I Having similar character, nature, or tastes;
a congenial group of friends. 2 Suited to one's
needs or disposition: She enjoyed her job
because of the congenial surroundings.
Syn. 1 kindred, sympathetic. 2 agreeable,
ing it calls up or the associations that cluster
likable.
around it. "Swarthy" alld "dusky" afe
Ant. dissimilar, unsympathetic. 2 disagree­
similar in denotation, both meaning dark­
able, repugnant, undesirable.
complexioned. But tlwy are rnuically
cOIl.~en.i.tal (kun·jen'v·tal) a(lj.
EXisting prior to or at birth, but not in­
herited: (1 congenital defect reJ;ulting from (1
temporary lack of oxygen during birth.
con·ger (kong'gar) n.
A marine eel from four to ten feet long, used
as a food fish.
con·glom·er·a·tiolt (ken.glom'a.rii'shan) n.
A mixed collection of things; a wild conglom­
erution of opillions and fads.
con·grat·u·)a·to·ry (k')fl·grach'oo·la·tor'e) adj.
Expressing congratulations: a congratulatory
telegram.
con.gru·ent (kong'groo·ant) adj.
1 in geometry Coinciding exactly when super­
imposed: Congruent triangles are identical in
sltape and size. 2 In agreement or conformily;
He kept his stories congruent with the logic of
reallife.~con'",ru.ence n., con'gru.ous adj.
Syn. 1 identical, duplicate. 2 consistent,
compatible, harmonious, concordant.
Ant. 1 different, dissimilar, unlike. 2 incom­
patible, inconsistent, discordant.
cOll·ic (kon'ik) adj.
Of at' like a cone; the conic ruot of a carrot.
Also con'i·cal adj.·~con/i.ca"'y adv.
con·i·fer (kon'a·lar or ko'na·far) n.
Any evergreen shrub or tree bearing cones
and needles and having resinous wood: Pines,
spruces, and firs are conifers.-co·niC·er.ous
(kO·nif'ar·as) adj.
Elymology: Conifer comes from two Latin
words: conus (cone) + jerre (to bear).
con·jec·ture (kan·jek'char) n.; v. conjec.
tured, con.jec.tur.ing
n. 1 A guess made when there are not enough
fa.cts to be certain: a deteclive's shrewd conjec­
ture about the murderer. 2 Guessing or guess­
work: Without concrete evidence, your theory
is mere conjecture.
v. To guess: He conjectured that the other side
would stall for time.-con.jec'tur.al adj.
Syn. n. 1 theory, surmise, hypothesis, notion.
conscqucllUy
2 supposition, inference, speCUlation. v. sur­
mise, speculate, suppose, think.
Ant. n. 1 certainty, knowledge, proof. 2 fact.
con·ju.gal (kon'joo·gal) adj.
Of or concerning marriage or the married; a
conjugal relationship; conjugal cou/entment.
Syn. matrimonial, marital.
con.nofs·seur (kon'a.sur') n.
A discriminating judge in· matters of art or
taste: The connoisseur of fine foods knc·w
exactly whH/ condiments to use.
con·no·la·tion (kon' a·ta'shan) n.
What a word or phrase suggests or implies,
as distinguished from what it means.
Usage: The denotation of a word is its aclual,
literal mealling. The connotation is the feel­
different in com,otation: "SwarLhy" Ims
vaguely sinister overtones, while the exotic
"dusky" carries an air of mystery rather than
menace.
Syn. implication, ovcrlone, sugge:.:;liun.
con·quer (kong'kdr) v.
I To defeat or take by force of arms: to con­
quer enemy territory. 2 To overcome by force
of will: to conquer fear. 3 To be victorious.
-con·quest (kon'kwest) n.
con·science {kon'shans) n.
A personal, inner sense of right and W!'Ollg:
H~s guilty cOllscience depri!'ed him of peace of
mtnd.
Spelling tip: Don'l confuse Lhis woni wiLh
consciolts.
con·sci·en·lious (kon'she·en'shas) adj.
1 Governed by conscience in trying to do
right: a conscientious welfare j,'orka. 2 Care­
luI and thorough: a conscientious reJlort cover­
ing all sides of the issue.
Syn. 1 scrupulous, honorable, et.hical. 2 pains­
taking, exact, precise.
Ani. 1 unscrupulous, dishonorable, unethical.
2 sloppy, careless, inexact.
cOll'scious (kon'Bh;,s) adj.
1 Mentally awake: A.Wwugh hit on the head,
he was still consciuiLs. 2 Aware: cOl/sciUlts of
my shortcomings. 3 Deliberate: a COn$ci()U8
slioht.-con'sciolls.ness n.
Spelling tip: Don't confu$c LhiB word wilh
conscience.
Syn. 1 sentient. 2 coguizant. 3 intentional.
Ant. ullconscious.
con·se·crate (kon'sa·kral) v. con·se·crat·ed,
con ·se.cral·jng
1 To dedicate to sacmd UBe: Tht bishup wW
CI.HlSecrate a chapel. 2 'fu devote Lo a cause:
He c07wecrated his life to service.
Syn. l sanctify, hallow. 2 dedicate, give.
COll.se.quent·)y (kon's~·kwenVI~) adv.
As a result: It was raining; consequently, ti«
picnic was postponed.
Syn. therefore, so, hence, ac(:ordingly.
~

....,

~
~ considerable contiguolls

~ con·sid.er.a·ble (kan.sid'"r.a·b"l) adj. con·strue lk;m·str60') v.

~ Great enough to be noticed: a considerable
for!une.~···con.8id'er.a.bly adv.
Spelling lip: Use -able, not -ible.
~ Syn. substantial, noteworthy, significant.
Ant. inconsiderable, insignificant, trivial.
~ con·sid·er·ate (ken·sid'ar.it) adj.
Thoughtful of others: Be considerale of older
people.
~ Syn. kind, solicitous, obliging.
1 To interpret: 'Phey cOllstmed Itis silellce liS
consent. 2 To analyze the grammatical
structure of a clause or sentence. 3 To USe
grammatically: "2IJathemalics" i:s collstrued
as a singular won/.
Syn. 1 understand, explain. 2 parse.
con·sul (kon'sal) n.
All olficial representative of one country

Ant. unkind, rude, neglectful.

living in a foreign city to protect his country's

~ con.sis·ten.cy (kan.sis'ten·se) n., con.sis·ten·
des pl.
.i;!~ 1 Degn,e of firmncss, thicknc.s, or. density:
liquid yrlalin cooled to the consistency of jelly.
2 A holding to the same line of thought or
""----*, action: his consistency in 0PPooing censorship
throughoul his career. 3 Agreement or unifor­
mity: the con"istency of his testimony. Also
~ con·sis'tence n.-con.~is'tent adj.
commercial interests and ensure the welfare
of its citizells,~con'sul·ar adj.
Usage; Don't confuse consul, counsel,
and cIHwcil, all of wbkh s()und quilt; alike.
Counsel meallS advice, or denotes ()llC or
more lawyers who give a client advice.
Council denotes a group that meets to dISCUSS
issues or to make decisions: The U.S. consltl
in l.tunbul ·wrole for co1tmJd to tite ,lliltl'(lukec
cily colt"ci/'

cun·sum·mate (kon'sa,mal"" kdn·sum'it adj.)

Syn. 3, correspondence, compatibility, har­

v. con·sum·mat.ed, cOII·sum.mat,ing; adj.
~ T~~y:i inconsistency, contradiction. v. To complete, perfect, or fulfill: The

Constitution consiwtmaled Ihe Itleio1t buttl'Vel!

~
con·Bom·me (kon'si)·ma') n. AU: slales. eon',sunl·lnu'Uon n.

A clear soup made of meat or meat stock adj. Of or in the highest degree: (! CO)l81WtlllUIe

boiled in water: beef or chicken consomme. artist.

~ con·so·nant (kon'se·nent) adj., n.

adj. In agreement or harmony: a decision
Syn. v. finish, crown, cap. adj. per feet, com­
plete. matchl<,,,~, flawless. . .
...~ cor~"mmtl u;ith his views of tlte situution.
n. A letter or speech sound other thall a

Ani. adj. poor, madequate, flawed, JlllperJect.

con·tam·i·naie (kdn·tam',HliH) v. eon·lam·i·
vowel, as b, f, s, and k. Consonants are

=~
nat·ed, con·tam·i·l1at·ing
pronounced by blocking the breath stream
'1'0 make dirty or impure: u ;:;lrUL;1l cUlllami­
with the lips, teeth, or tongue.
natell by iJt(ll,xtri(l/ u;",te.' cOI\·lam'j.na'­
Syn. adj. consistent, accordant, compatible.

~
Ijon 11.
Ant. adj. inconsistent, discordant, incom­
Syn. pollute, delile, taint.
patible. Ani. purify, sterilize, disinfect.
~ con·sort (kon's6rt 11., ken·s6rt' v.) n., v.
n' A spouse, companion, or escort: Prince
con-tem·piate (kOll'tJIII·plat) v. con.lom·plal,
ed, con·tem·plal.ing
A ILert was Queen Victoria's consurt.
~
1 To gaze at thoughtfully: 11e sluv'! Co"/ell/­
v. '1'0 keep company: He was accused of con­
plating the Parthenon by moolllight. 2 To
sorting with known criminals.
consider, anticipate, or plan: She is contem­
~ Syn. v. associate, fraternize.

Ant. v. part company, a void.

plating a trip 10 Europe. Do you contemplate

changing your job? 3 '1'0 medilat,,: " ,clwlar
con·spir.a·cy (ki.ln·spir'i.!,se) n., con·spir·a·cics conlc'nplu{ing in ids "tady.~ COII'lem.pla'­
-~ pl. lion n.
1 A plot involving two or more persons who
Syn. I regard, behold. 2 intend, propose,
-s:s, plan to commit an evil or unlawful act: a
envision. 3 ponder, think, muse, refleet.
price-fixing conspiracy. 2 An acting together:
con·tem·pla·tiYe (kim'lem'jJlll'tiv ur k,m·Letn'­
.:...­--, They were unuvoidably delayed by a conspiracy

of Ihe elemenls.~con·spir'a·tor n., con·spire

plHiv) adj .
Given to unhurried thought: the contemplative
(kan·spfr'J v.
life of a hermit or monk.
~ Syn. 1 scheme, intrigue, collusion. 2 con­

currence, conjunction.

Syn. thoughtful, meditative, refledi ve.

con·stel·la·tioll (kon'sta·la'sban) n.
~ 1 A group of stars imagined to represent the
outlin~ of a being or thing, and named
accordingly, as Orion, the Big Dipper (Ursa
Major), etc. 2 In astrology The position of
the stars at a particular time, especially at
one's birth.
con·stU·u·ent (kan·stich'60·antJ n.
1 A necessary part or element: Nitrogen is (l
constitueni of TNT. 2 A voter represented by
an elective official: The congressman sent u
quarterly re]lorl 10 his conslituenls.- con·stit'­
u·en·cy n.
Syn. I component, ingredient. 2 elector.
con·test·ant (kan·tes'tant) 11.
A person who enters a competition or who
challenges something: A local cunlcolunt won
the prize. Contestants oruke the di'lmied will.
con· text (kon'tekst.) u.
The passage or frame of reference in which a
word or group of words is used: Tlw "'''iming
vf the word u;:W((;" tlcpewl.., upon the' cOHlext.
1'aken alit of COltttxt, hi" statemeNt w(/.
misleading.
cOIl·(jg.u·ous (kan·tlg'y60·as) adj.
1 Touching at the edge or along a boundary:
Virg-iuiu (Lnd ivurlh Carolinil are COllfi!IlWWL
2 Close, bUl not touching: Two culttiyuoltB
rondHide stands compeied for LusinCHS.

567
contingency
cOll.tin·gen·cy (kon·tin'jan·se) n .• con·tin.gen.
cies pl.
I An unforeseen but possible event: The
expedition was prepared for any contingency.
2 The condition of being dependent on
chance or circumstance: the contingency of
their tentative plans.
Syn. 2 uncertainty, fortuitousness.
Spelling tip: For words ending in u vowel and
Ant. 2 certainty, firmness.
a consonant, with the accent on the last
con·tin·gent (kan-tin'j8nt) adj., n.
adj. 1 Dependent upon an uncertain event.
condition, or outcome: An increase in your
allowance is contingent upon your grades. 2
Liable but not certain to happen: a contin­
gent outcome. 3 Occurring by chance: contin­
gent catastrophes.
n. A representative group or proportional
part: tile liberal contingent at the nteetil1g; the
CaliforniL' contingent of troops.
con·tin·u·ous (kan·tin'yoo·as) adj.
Going on or extendin~ without a break or
letup: a continuolls expunse of ocean.-con­
Un'o-ous-Iy adv.
Syn. uninterrupted, unLroken, prolonged.
con·tor·Hon (ken.tllr/shen) n.
1 A twisting or being twisted: the contortion
of his featurea in anger {md hllte. 2 An un­
naturally twisted position or shape: th<l
contortions of a circus acrobat.-con·tor'tion·
1st n.
con·tour (kon't0'6r) n., adj.
n. The shape or outline of an object: the
Ant. confirm, support, prove, verily.
cylindrical contOllr of a cigarette.
con·tu·sion (kan·t(y)oo'zhal1) n.
adj. Shaped to fit the outline of something:
A bruise: Thanks to tile safety belt, he suffered
contour sheets.
only contusions and otller minor injuries.
con·tra·band (kon'tra·band) n., adj.
n. Goods that are illegal to import or export:
A gradual recovery after the termination of
1'he border guards searched for contraband.
an illness or after surgery, or· the period of
adj. IIle~al to import or export: The rebels
such a recovery: The heart openltion was
used contraband weapons.
successful, but compliclltions prolonged his
Usage: The phrase contrabund of war denotes
conl'alescellce.---con'va·lesce' v.
goods that a neutral nation may not furnish
Syn. recuperation.
to a belligerent nation in time of war.
con·vene (kan·ven'J v. con·vened, cOll.ven.lng
con·tral·to (k<ln·tral'tO) n.
The lowest female singing voice, or a singer
with such a voice: Her voice del'eloped into a
deep, husky eontraUo.
con·tra·vene (kon'tra-ven') v. con·tra·vened,
con.tra.ven.ing
To come into conflict with; oppose, or
contradict: to contravene a luw; contravening
an orthodox theory.
con·trib·ute (kan·trib'yoot) v_ con·trib·ut-ed,
con.trib·ut·ing
1 To give or provide jointly with others:
Contribllte your time to charitable groups. 2 To
help cause: Popular discontent contributed to
the king's downfaU.
Syn. I donate, subscribe. 2 influence, affect.
Ant. 1 take, receive. 2 prevent, impede.
con·trite (kan'trit' or kon'trlt) adj.
. Deeply and humbly sorry for one's sin or
sins; penitent: Reformed and contrite, he
/legged forgiveness.-con·tri'tion (kan·trish'­
9n) n.
568
COllversant
Syn. remorseful, repentant.
Ant. impenitent, uncontrite, unashamed.
con·trol (kan·trol') v. con·trolled. con-(ro!·!ing
I To exercise a directing, regulatory, or
governing influence over: Parents should
control IIleir children. 2 To regulate or verify,
as an experiment.
syllable, double the final consonant before a
suffix beginning with a vowel.
con·trol·ler (ken·tro/lar) n.
1 An administrator responsible for fiscal
planning and control, as of budgeting,
accounting. and tax procedul'Cs. 2 A person
who regulates or controls something.
Spelling tip: Controller, definition 1, may also
be spelled c01nptroller.
con·tro·ver.sial (kon'tn·vur'shal) ut/j.
Characterized by or subject to disagreem<?nt
and debate: Ihe cun/rvl'add Vi(,/lltllfl policy.
-con'tro.verJ'sy n.
Syn. contested, disputed, arguaLle.
Ant. unchallenged, undisputed.
cOII·tro·vert (kon'tr8·viirt 01' kon'ira·vllrt') v.
To dispute hy evidence 01' by reasoning: Thl'
d"f('ndant Ined to controvert the plantiff's
story.
llsnge: COiltrovert is a rather formal word
with standard legal usage.
Syn. contradict, challenge, reluie.
con·va·lea-cence (kon'vd·les'alls) 11.
To assemble. The delegates convowd (It 3:110
and dispersed at 5:30.
Syn. gather, collect.
Ant. adjourn, disperse, break up.
cOll·ven·ience (ki)n·vCn'yans) n.
1 Anything that increases comfort or saves
work: disitwQsliing machines and other
domeslic cOllvenience". 2 Suitability: lite
cOlll'cnience vf u~ing Frcllch us an ili1enwtional
language, 3 Personal comfort; ease: a hote!
beauty shop for the eonl'enience of gU"S/.5.
Usage: The phrase at one's convenience mean!;
at a time or occasiun suiting a person's needs
or preference: 1 will be glad to meet him at his
convenience.
Spelling lip: .w aich the spelling (and pro­
nunciatiun) of the last syilable.
con·vcr,sant (kon'Vdr-!$0nt or kcllt'VUI"Sdllt)
adj.
Familiar, as by extensive study: Professur
Smith is conversant with the history oj Iceland.
Syn. knowledgeable, informed.
Ant. ignorant, unfamiliar.
:....5
-~
~
~
~
~
~
~ correspondence
convex
~
con,vex (kon'veks or kon·veks') adj. Sincerity of feeling; warmth: lIe greetcd his
~ Curving outward, as the surface of a globe.
Ant. concave.
friend with much cortli«lity.
Syn. geniality, friendliness, heartiness.

~ con·vey·ance (kan·yji.',Hls) n.
1 A vehicle or other means of transport:
Ant. aloofness, coldness.

cor.dial·Iy (k6r'jaJ.e) ",Iv.

~
planes and other modern conveyances. 2 The
act of transporting: CQnveyance of sccrct
documents by diplomatic couriers.
In a warm, friendly manner: cord'ia!ly
we/.c01llcd.
Syn. warmly, l,eartily. genially, sincerely.

~ Syu. 1 carrier. 2 transport, transmittal. Ant. formally, coldly, grullly, Lelligerentiy.

cor.du·roy (k6r'da,roi) n.
con·vey·er (kan·vji.'ar) n.
A durabltl, heavy fabric;, usually of colloll.
~ Something or someone that transports, as

an en dless belt.
with vertical ribs.
Spelling lip:. This word may also be spelled
cor·nice (kor'nis) 1/.
~ conveyor. I A horizontal molding projecting from the
top of a wall, building, etc., for ornamentation.
con.viv.j.aI.(kan·viv'e.al) adj.

~
2 A decorative frame of woud or metal to
CharacteflZe? by good fellowship: a convivial
cover curtain fixtures.
college reu nwn. --can ·vi v'i.al'i ·Iy (ken· vi y'­

e·al'a·tii) n.
cor·nu·co.pi.a (k5r'na·ko'pe·8) n.
~ Syn. jovial, sociable, companionable merry.
A symbol of abundance, represented as a
curved horn overflowillg with fruits vege­
Ant. unfriendly, cold, stiff, gloomy. '

tables, grains, dc. '

~ con· yoke (kan·vok'J v. con·voked, con·vok·jng
To summon for a meeting: The President
Syn. horn of pl~nty.
cor·o·ner (kar'a·nar or kor'a·ncr) tl.

~
convoked tlte regional council. A local olticial who presides over inquests:

Syn. convene, call, assemble.

The verdict of the coroner's jury InlS munler by
Ant. adjourn.

~
coo·lie (k60'le) n.
In the Orien~. an unskilled. very low-paid
l'!"!I!J laborer: 11e hued a coolie to carry the trunk.
Spelling lip: This word may also be spelled
persons unknown.
cor.po.rate (k5r'par·it) ailj,
Pertaining to a business corporation: the
corporate charler.
cor,po.re.al (k6r·por'e·al or k6r·pil're·al) adj.

.
cooly.
~ co.op.er.ale. (ko.op'e.riit) v. co,op,er.ul·ed,
co.op·er·at·lIlg
Material; tangihle: corporeal IIlill!.!" such as
typewriters, as oP]JOSI'(/ to glIOsis VI' /" su('h
intanyibk. oS Iwppilwss.
-~~ To work together for a common end: Syn. physical, concrete. .
'I'eachers and students cooperated in producing
Ant, incorporeal, spiritual, intangible. ab­
the play.--co.oJl'er.a'lion n.

~
stract.
Spelling tip: Cooperate is the most common

spelling! but ea-operate and cooperate are also

corps (k61' or kor) II., corps 1'1.
1 A military unit or sp<;cial d."parlmcnt: the
~
!'ccept!.'ble. However, the use of a dieresis (")
Third Corps; the 'l'tat1$pv,'/ ('Or]!8. 2 A grollp
IS conSidered qUIte old-fashioned.

of persons acting or working t(Jgether.

co·pi·ous (ko~pe·"s) adj.
~ ~Ientiful; consisting of a large quantity or
cor.pu.lent (k6r'pya'!dnt) adj.

........

-J/I'
nch assortment.
Syn. abundant, bountiful, lavish.
Ant. meager, insufficient, minimal, spare.
Fat: it corpulent ma., 8/1011/(/ did.

Syn. oLese, fleshy, portly.

Ant. lean, skinny, thin, gaunt.

cor.pus de·lic·ti (k6r'pus di.lik'u) n.

co.quet·ry (k6'ka·tr~ or ko·ket're) 1I,
--*> Female flirting: lIer come-hitlter glances are
[nl!,W Literally, ':t.lle body of the crime," the
hUJHC piece ()f eVldence that prOVl'~ a crime
only CV(luetry .
..:.......
-"
Syn. flirtatiousness, vamping, dailiance. has Loen 70!ll~lilted: A dead b"c/y is the
corpus dellcll HI " Illurdcr, awl u ,la,IH:t/
co·quetle (ko·ket') n. painting is the corpas delicti ill u "uwlulis!iI.
~ A flirtll.tious woman: a pretty coquette, smilillg
8u~ge8t1Vdy.
cor·ral (k,,·ral') n.; v. cor·ralled, cor.ral.ling
u. An encitm(:d space or l,(-Ii for IiVt't"iLdd,,:
8yn. flirt. iJrive the hvrses illl" Ihe cufWI.
cor·al (k6r'al or kor'al) n. v. '1'0 drive into and enclose in a corral: lle

1 A substance formed from the external corru1l",1 tlw s/cer.

skeletons of certain primitive marine Syn. H. pen, enclosure, fold. v. p('n, coop,

orgamsms; also, the individual skeleton. 2 round up.

A color ranging from delicate pink-n,d to Ant. v. fn·,'.

orange-red. cor·re·late (kol",,·liit or kOl",,·Hit) v, cor·re·

Spelling lip: Do not confuse coral with corral. lat.ed, cor·re·lat.jng
cor·dial (kilr'jal) adj. v. To demonstrate a relationship bet ween:
adj. Friendly; warm: a cordial meeting of old Sneniv;ls Itavu corrdated Cancer uwl clyoretl(:
fnend8. 3wokiny.
Syn. adj. affable, genial. SYII. v. relate, connect, link.
Ant. adj. formal, hostile, surly. cor.re.spou.dence (kor'il·spon'ddlls Or kor'­
cor.diaI·j·ty (k6r.jal',,·te or. kilr·je·al'a·t1!) n. a·spon dans) n.

569

corroborate
1 An exchange of letters; also, the letters
written. 2 A resemblance or analogy: ihe
correspcmdence between the Greek and Roman
gods.
Syn. 1 notes, epistles. 2 congruity, similarity,
recommend; to counsel prudence in makiniJ
'!!!!!!!.I.
likeness.
decisions.
Ant. 2 incongruity, discrepancy, contrast,
difference.
cor·rob·o-rale (ka·rob'o·riitj v. cor·rob·o·ra!.
ed, cor.rob.o·ra!·ing
To confirm: Eyewitness testimony corroborated
tile CirClOl!stanliai eviilcllce.
Syn. confirm, verify, substantiate, support.
Ant. disprove, contradict, controvert.
cor· rode (kv'rod') v. cor,rod,cd, cor.rod·ing
with the intent to deceive: counterfeil ?IU""ey.
To eat away, as hy chemical action: an old
tin boz, badly corroded.
Syn. erode.
cor,ro·sive (kil·ro'sivj adj.
1 Having the power to eat away, as by
chemical action: a highly corrosive acid. 2
Tending to destroy or to hurt feelings: a
corrosive wit ..
cor.ru.gat,ed (kor'a.giit'Jd or kor'a·giit'ad)
adj.
Shaped in alternate parallel ridges and
furrows: cormgated cardboard.
Syn. ridged, furrowed, grooved.
Ani. smooth, flattened.
cor·tege (k6r·tezh' Dr kor.tiizh') n.
A group of attendants: the queen and her
cortege.
Syn. retinue, entourage, escort.
cos·mic (koz'mik) adj.
part?
Pertaining to the universe or cosmos.
Syn. 1 duplicate, copy, 2 complement.
Syn. macrocosmic, universal.
Ant. 1 antithesis, opposite.
cos·mos (koz'mils or koz'mos) 11.
coup (kOO) 1/" coups (kOOz) pI.
The universe.
A sudden and brilliant move; masterstroke:
Syn. macrocosm,
Ii e made a coup when he submitted the lowest
co·te·rie (ka'ta·rel n.
A small, exclusive group of persons who share
certain interests or pursuits: an artistic and
literary coterie.
Syn. clique, circle.
~
co·tiI·lion (ko· til'yvn or ka·til'yan) n.
A kind of dance or hall: tlte spring cotillion.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled cotil!on.
coun·cil (koun's>,)l) n.
1 A meeting of persons for discussion or con­
sultation: a council of physicians. 2 A group
of people elected or appointed to make laws
and administer the affairs of a territory,
colony, city, etc.
Uo;alje: Sce C()NtlUI..
coun·eil·or (koull'sal·ar) n.
A member of a council: a councilor of a city
government.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse councilor with
counselor.
coun·sel (koun'sal) 71.; v. coun·seled or coun·
selled, coun,sel.jng or coun.sel.1inlf
n. 1 Exchange of opinions and Ideas; dis·
cussion. 2 Advice: He followed the counsel of
his wise old professur. 3 A lawyer or group of
570
C'!'!!-.
~
coupling
~
lawyers engaged to give advice in legal
matters or to conduct a case in cnurt. 'I!!!!!I.
v. 1 To give advice; advise: lIe 'Was counseled
to sel! his stocks. 2 To advise in favor of;
Usage: See CONSUL. ~
coun-sel·or (koulI'sa·lar or kO\lIl'slar) n,
lOne who gives counsel; an adviser. 2 An ~
attorney at Jaw. 3 A member of ille super­
visory staff at a children's camp: (I s'Wimming (!!!I!I!!I.
counselor.
cOUIl·ter·Ceil (koun'tar·fit) adj., n., v.
adj. Made to rescmble some genuine thing ~
n. Something made fraudulently to resemble
something else: The large diamond she 'Wore
t\!!!!!!..
proved to be a cOllnlerfcit.
v. 1 To mal<e an imitation with the intent ~
to defraud: to coullierfcit fifty·dollar bills. 2 To
feign or sham: to counterfeit remorse.
Syn. adj. false, phony, sham. n. forgery, sham. ~
v. 2 pretend, affect.
~
coull·ter·mand (koun'tar·mand') 1'.
To cancel (a previous command or ordel'),
often by giving an opposite one: After ~
·
instructinu his mett 10 attack, he coltlliermanded
the order and called for a retrelli.
SYll. rescind, revoke. ~ ·
coun.ter.part (koun'tdr·pari') fl.
1 A person or thing precisely or closely ~
resembling another. 2 A person or thing
that supplements or completes another:
H ere's, my left shoe, but where is its counter­
bid and 'was awarded the contract. ~
Etymology: Coup, adopted from a French
word, literally means Ha struke 01' blow."
coup de grace (koo' d~ gras'), coups de grace pl.
~
·
1 A duath blow or shot given to a wounded
ellemy or to an animul to end suffering. 2 Any
act or <,vent putting an end to Romething:
'l'he large-scale production of the kfodel-T
Ford aave the coup de grAce to the horse ami
~
·
bUIJUY.
I<~tyrnology:Coup de fjraCe is' a Frcllch term ~
that literally means "a stroke of mercy."
coup d'e·tat (1<00' da·ta'), coups d'etat 1)1.
An unexpected stroko of political policy,
o}1Jwdally it litllld{~tl ~.dzure of a. gov{'tnnwllL
often involving force and violence: On Dec.
2, 1851, I,ollis Napoleon by a CUUJl d'e/a{ made
himself emperor of France,
Etymology: Coup d'etat is a French phrase
that literally means "a stroke of slat.e,"
coup·ling (kup'Jing) n.
1 A linking device, especially olle for joining
railroad cars. 2 'I'he act 01 joining or linking
one thing to another: a coupling of orcat
charm and kccn intdleel.
Syn. 2 union, uniting, pairing.
~
~
.--,
~
~
COllfageous
~
cou·ra·geous (ka .fil.'jas) adj.
~ Possessing or characterized by courage: a
courageous soldier.-cou.ra/geous.l), adv., cou·
~ ra'geous.ness n.
Syn. daring, brave, fearless, valorous.
AnI. cowardly, timid, fearful.
~
cour·te·ous (kOr'til'as) adj.
Showing courtesy to others.-cour'le.ous.l)'
~ adv., cour/le·ous·ness 11.
Syn. polite, courtly, obliging, gracious.
~
AnI. unmannerly, boorish, rude, impolite,
discourteous.
cour·te·san (kor'ta·zan or kor/ta·zen) n.
~ A woman who prostitutes herself to men of
wealth and high rank; a kept woman: Nell
oi!:~ Gwyn was a famous courtesan in the cuurt of
Charles I1 of England.
cour·te·sy (kur'ta.se) n., conr·le·sles pI.
~ 1 Politeness, kindness, and thoughtfulness
to others. 2 A polite, kind, or thoughtful
~ act: the courtesy of breaking a dale well in
advance.
Spelling lip: It is an old-Iashioned courtesy
~ for a woman to curtsy-but don't confuse
these two words.
~ Syn. 1 manners, affability, civility.
AnI. I ru(hmf!HH, inciviliLy, irnpolileneHH.
cour·H·cr (k6r'le·ar) n.
~ I A member of a sovereign's court. 2 A person
who seeks favor of those in a higher position
-J~ by flattery and a desire lo please.
cov·e·nant (kuv'a·mmL) n., v.
n. An agreement entered inLo by two or
~ more persons or parties: " cov"n,,?!! among
neighboring powers 10 kee p pe<lc~.
~
v. To promise by or in a covenant.
Syn. n. pact, treaty, concordat. v. agree,
contract.
~ cov·et (ku v'it) v.
1 To desire eagerly; long [or: MallY people
covete(i invilalions to the party. 2 To deslre
~ something belonging to Homeone else: Early
settiers coveted land bdm<gillQ to the Indian8.
~ cov·et·ous (Imv'a·t"s) adj.
Excessively desirous of something, especially
something belonging to another: covetolls of
his neighbor's wife.-cov/el.ou,dy adv., cov'­
el·ous·ness n.
cov·ey (kuv'e) n., cov·eys pl.
I A flock of quails or partridges. 2 A group;
A covey of autograph-seekers surrounded the
screen idol.
Syn. 2 bevy, !lock, herd, crowd.
cow·er (kou'M) v.
To crouch or cringe. as in fear or shame:
~Vhen the eutwas nearby, /he mice cowered in
their holes.
Syn. quail, tremble. shrink, flinch.
cox· swain (kok'san Or kok'swan') n.
A person who steers or has charge of a small
boat or racing shell.
coy.o.te (kr.o'tl!) n., coy·o·tes or coy.o·le 'pl.
-.....
A small wolf with a piercing howl, common
to the prairies of the western United States.
crass (kras) adj.
~ Grossly vulgar or stupid: She always makes
~
~
~-
creel
crass remarks about the cost of things.­
crass'ly adv., crass'ness n.
Syn. crude, ignorant, unmannerly.
era· vat (kra·vat') n.
1 A man's scarf, often worn in the open neck
01 a shirt in place of a necktie. 2 Formerly,
any necktie.
crea·ture (kre'char) n.
1 A living being, especiaUy all animal:
Rabbits alld deer are shy 'woodlund creatures.
2 A person, especially when regarded with
pity, scorn, etc.: The 1'oor crCU/UTC eould
scarcdy read or 11>,.il". 3 A person who is
dependent upon, illfluenc~d by, ur dominated
by anoth8r: 1'he king was U iliac cre((ture of
the 1Jfinw ul'illi?1lcr.
Syn. 3 puppet, lUol.
cre·dence (kred'(a)ns) n.
Belief, especially as bused upon the evidence
or reports of others; fl e does not giue cre,zence
to rumurs.
Syn" trust, faith, acceptance, confluence,
reliance.
AnI. disbelief, denial, distrust, doubt,
skep tieism.
ere·den·dals (kri·den'shalz) 11.1'1,
A certiHcale giving (~\'idl.'llee of ow:'}) aulhur­
ity, identity, or daim to trustworthiness: A
conv"ntiot! delegate must present his credentiats.
cred·j·ble (kred'a·bal) wlj.
I Cal,able of being believed; 11" luld ((
credib e'story to explain his delay. 2 Worthy
of confidence; )'elillble: a credible witness.-""
cred,j.bU·i,ly (kred'a·bW,,·te) n., cred'i·bly
adv.
Usage; Be carelul not to confuse credible
with creditable and creliul""s. Crnliiable
meami dt',':wrving ert'dit or eSleeUl; cn!dl~/(H!:;
mealls apt to believe anyLhing without
question. Both cre(liblc lind credi/able apply
to people aud statements, but ac,iulo«s
applies only to people.
ere· do (kre'do or krn'do) n., crc·dos pi.
1 A set 01 beliefB; creed: tlw credo of a docial­
iot. 2 (Olten capital C) In some Christian
churches, a confession of raith, either sung
or recited; also, a musical seltin;: lor this.
Syn. 1 doctrine, teneLs, principle,;.
cre·du·Jj·ty (kre·d(y)oo'la·te) n.
Readiness to believe anything'on very slight
evidence; foolish, unjustified trustfulness:
Advertisers depcnd 1'POll Ihe credulity of tlte
public to sell 1IWlty of Ihfir producls.
Syn. gullibility, nuivNe, unsophistlcalion.
Ant. skepticism, shrewdness, suspiciousness.
cred·u·lous (Iuej'o6,IJs) adj.
Apt to believe anything without question;
easy to mislead: [( credaloas young man from
the cuulllry.-cred'u.lous.ly adv., cred/u·lous·
ness 11.
Usage: See CUEDIBLE.
Syn. gullible, naive, trusting.
Ant. skeptical, shrewd, suspicious, cautious.
creel (krel) n.
1 An angler's wicker basket lor carrying fish.
2 A frame in a spinning machine that holds
the bobbins.
571

cre·ma·to.ry (kri!'ma·t6r'e) n., ere·ma·'o·ries
'pl.
A furnace for reducing dead bodies to ashes;
also, the building containing such a furnace.
ere·ole (kre'ol) adj.
!!!!!!!!!!!.
Cooked with a savory sauce containing
peppers, okra, tomatoes, onions, etc.; shrimp
creole.
}ltymo\ogy: Creole as a cooking term means
cooked in the style of the Creole8, descen­
dants of the original French settlers in and
about New Orleans.
~re·scen·do (kra.shen'do) n., ere·seen.dos pl.
. A gradual increase in the volume of sound or
in emotional intensity, usually used in
connection with singing or instrumental
playing: The sonata ended in a crescendo.
Etymology: Crescendo comes from the Italian
word crescere, to grow or to increase.
cres·cent (kres'ant) n., adj.
n. l The curved shape that is the visible part
of the moon in its first or last quarter. 2 Any­
thing so shaped: crescents of beautifully
decisive nature: This crucial game wlll
browned, crisp pastry.
determine the section 1oinner. 2 Involving
adj. Having such a shape: a crescent moon.
trials and difficulties; severe: a crucial
cre·vasse (kra·vas') n.
, 1 A deep crack or chasm, as in a glacier. 2 A
break in the levee of a river.
crev·ice (krev'is) n.
An opening or crack on or through the
surface of a wall, rock, etc.
Syn. split, fissure, cleft, chink.
crin.o·line (krin'a·lin) n.
1 A very stilI material used in puffed
sleeves, hems, interlinings, etc. 2 A petticoat
of this fabric. 3 A hoop skirt.
cri·te·ri·on (krHir'll·an) n., cri·te·d·a (krHir'­
ll·a) or cri·telri·ons pl.
A standard or rule by which a judgment can
be made.
Usage: Note that there are two acceptable
plurals for criterion, and be careful not to
mistake criteria for a singular noun takin~ a
singular verb: Each college-admission critenon
is being reviewed, and new criteria are expected
Boon.
crit·i·cize (krit'a·siz) V. crit·j·cized, cri~.j.ciz·ing
1 To judge severely; find fault with. 2 To
examine critically: to criticize a new novel.
Sr.elling tip: American and British spelling
dIffer on words ending in an -iz sound.
American spelling calJs for a z, while British
spelling is with an 8 (criticize, criticise;
organize, organise; etc.).
Syn. I censure, reprove, castigate. 2 appraise,
review, analyze.
Ant. I praise, commend, acclaim.
cro·chet (kro·sha') v. cro,che!ed (kro,shad'),
cro·chet·ing (krO·shii'ing)
To form or decorate a fabric by interlacing
thread with a hooked needle.
Spelling tip: The final -et of French-derived
words is pronounced Ii: crochet, beret,
sachet, filet mignon-and ~obert Goulet.
crone (kron) n.
cul-de-sacs pl.
A withered old woman.
1. A passage open only at one end. 2 A fib_"
•
~
cul-de-sac.
Jl!!!!!!!J.
cro.quet (kro·kii') n.
An outdoor game in which the players us., I!!!!!!!!!.
long-handled mallets to drive wooden balls
through a series of wire arches,
Spelling tip: Note the a-sounding -et. Als(, ..
do not confuse this word with croquette (:;.
cake of minced food). !!I!!!!!I!!.
1)ro·queHe (kro·ket') n.
A ball or cake of minced food, such as meat, ~
fowl, or flsh, fried in deep fat.
crotch·et (kroch'it) n.
An odd or perverse notion or whim: One, 0/ ~
,
the old man's crotchets was going to bed wit',
all his clothes on. ~
Syn. eccentricity, quirk, vagary, caprice.
crotch.et·y (kroch'a,te) adj. l!!!!!I.
1 Given to whimsical or cranky behavior: "­
crotchety old crone. 2 Like a crotchet: crotchetl.'
mannerisms. ~
Syn. eccentric, whimsical, capricious.
eru·cial (krilO'shal) adj.
1 Important because of its critical or
~
~
moment in her life. ~
Syn. 1 pivotal, deciding, deflnitive. 2 grave,
trying, acute, momentous.
cru·et (krilO'it) n. ~
1 A small glass bottle for vinegar, oil, etc.,
used at the dining table. 2 A similar vessel ~
used to hold wine or water at an ecclesiastical
service.
crux (kruks) n., crux·es or ern·ces (krilO'sez) pl.
A main, central, pivotal, or vital point: Many
consider lack of education the crux of the
poverty cycle.
cryp·tic (krip'tik) adj.
Not plainly evident or easily understandable:
a cryptic message hidden in a maze of unde­
cipherable prose.
Syn. hidden, secret, mysterious, occult.
Ant. clear, understandable, explicit.
crys·tal·!ine (kris'ta·line) adj.
1 Of, having to do wiLh, or like crystal or
crrstals: a crystalline cumpound. 2 Resem­
bhng crystal in appearance: a crystalline sky.
3 Composed or made of crystal or crystals:
Granite is crystalline.
Syn. 2 clear, transparent, pure, pellucid.
cuck·oo (k<mk'ilO; also kilO'kilO for adj.) n.,
euck·oos pl.; adj.
n. Any of a number of hirds whose call
sounds like the word "cuckoo."
adj. Slang Crazy, silly, stupid.
cu·cum·ber (kyilO'kum·bar) 11.
1 A long. cylindrical fruit that has a hard,
green rind and a crisp, white ftesh. 2 The
creeping plant on which this fruit grows.
cui·sine ( kwi·zen') n.
A type, method, or qualiLy of cooking:
Chinese cuisine; the excellent Cttisine of our
neighborhood restaurant.
cul-de-sac (kul'da,sak' or kOol'da·sak') n.,
.. ­
e""!I
-t'4
.;;;

~
~
~
~
culinary czar
~
!,osition, or Bitua lion in which one is trapped: cur·so·ry (kar'sar·e) adj.
~ His illogical arguments led him into a cul-de­
sac wllere lie was bested by his opponent's
Not thorough; too fast: A cursory reading of
the manuscript failed 10 rcvml its tn," icorlh.­
~ consistel1t reasoning.
cu.li.nar·y (ky60'la-ner'e or kul/a-ner/e) adj.
cur'so.ri.ly adv., cur'so.ri.nes;, n.
Syn. superficial, careless, slllpdasll, per­
functory,
~
Of or having to do with cooking or the
kitchen: Julia Child is a IIUlsler of culinary Ant. thorough, careltll, !Jaiustalling.
lecll1liqucs. cur·tail (ker.tal') v.
~ cul·lUi·nate (kul/min.at) v. cul.mi-nat-ed, cui.
mi.nat.ing
To cut off or cut short: to curtail e:t)!cmiitllres.
-cur,tail'er, cnr,taWment n.
Syn. redu.ce , ahbrevia te, lessen , dilllini~h.
~ To reach the highest !Joint or degree; come to
a final result or effect: 'The long strike culmi­
Ant. extend, expand, enlarge, increase.
nated in a setllement-cul'mi.na/tion 11. cur·tain (kCir'tdn) v.
~ Syn. climax, end. 11. I A piece or
in a window or
of cluth, etc., banging
opening. 2 Sumething
cu!·pa·ble (kul'pu·bal) adj. that conceals ur separates lil"" a curtain: {he
..r_--!j Deserving blame or censure: a nurse guilty of curt"in of darkneSS.
culpable neglect.-cul·pa-bil-j.!y (kul'pa-bil'­ v. Tu provide, shut vII, or cOllceal with ur as
~
,,-te) 11., cul'pa-bly adv. if with a curtain: fa off the
Syn. blameworthy, reproachable, censurable, Spelling tip: Be to spell
reprehensible_ an ain.

Ant. blameless, guiltless, innocent, faultless. Syn. n. 1 drapery, tapestry, itallgillg, portiere.

cui· vert (kul'varl) n. v. cover, conceal, screen, hide.

~ An artificial, covered channel for water, as
under a road.
cy.a.nide (,i'".nid) 1/,
Anyone of a number of highly poisonous
chemical compounds.
~
cu.ne·i·form (l<yoo,ne'a,form or ky60'ne,a·
fOrm') adj., 11. cyc·la.men (sik'lv'man or sf'klv,milll) )1.
adj. \Vedge-shaped, as the characters in some A plant of the primrose family, wilh large
~ ancient Sumerian, Assyrian, Babylonian, and
Persian inscriptions.
white, pink, or crimson flowers.
cy·clo·tron (sj'kla·lron) !l.
n. The writing; done in cuneiform charactero.
~
An accelerator in which electritkd partie\(:s
cu.pid·j·ly (ky(jo,pid/~,te) n. are whirled at very high s{weds in a strong
Eager desire for possession, especially of magnetic fIeld.
~ wealth. -
Syn. avarice, greed, covetousness.
cyl·in.der (sil'in-dur) 1/,
1 A solid figllre deseril",u by tl,e eirlOum­
ference of a circle 'vhos(~ centor along
~
Ant. liberality, generosity, unselfishness.
cu·po·la (ky60'p;>-la) n. a straight line: .{ cyli,l<lcr r"-'t'w/,/,,,, (l section
1 A rounded roof; dome. 2 A small, towerlike of pipe. 2 Any shape similar to ey·lin'­
~ structure with a dome-shaped top, ri,ing
above the roof of a building.
dri·cal adj.
cym·bal (sim'bul) 11.
A concave metal plate that is beaten or is
~ cu.ri.os·i·ty (kyoor'e·os'a·te) n., cu.ri.oB.i,ties
pl. clashed in pairs to produce a musical,
ringing oound.-cym'bal-ist n.
} Eager desire for knowledge of something,

~ especially of something novel or unusual.

2 Interest in the private affairs of others. 3

Spelling tip: Don't confuse this word with

symbol (something that stanus for something
else).
~ Something that is interesting because or its

strangeness or rarity.
cyn·jc (sill'ik) 1<,
A sneering, faultfinding !Jerson, especially
Syn.l inquisitiveness, interest. 2 meddlesome­

~ ness, nosiness. 3 oddity, marvel, phenomenon.

Ant. 1 disinterest, indifference, apathy.

one who believes that all men are motivated

by selfiolmess or insincerity.-~ eyn'i.cal adj.,
cyn/i.cal-Iy adv.
~ cur·mudg·eon (k<>r,muj'vn) 11.
A gruff or irritable person, especially an
Syn. ::;keptic, ::;neel"er J rni~anthrop(J, peHsindHt.
cyst (sist) n.
elderly ·man.-cur.mudg'eon,jy adj.
~ Any abnormal sac or vesicle in the body in

~
-
Syn. codger, churl.
cur.ric.u.lum (k,,-rik/ye-lam) n., cur·ric·u-Iums
or cur.ric-u-Ia (k,,·rik'ye,la) pI.
All the courses of study offered at a school or
czar (zar) ,,,
ror any particular grade in a school.
~ cur·ry (kllr'e) v. cur.ried, cur.ry.ing; n.
v. 'I'o rub down and clean with a currycomb;
~ groom (a horse, etc.).
n. A pungent sauce of East Indian origin,
used as a relish for meats, rice, etc.
~ Usage: 'I'his word is often used in the
pression to curry favor, which means to
which matter may collect and be retained.
1 An emperor or kill~, e~pecially one of the
former emperors of Ru~sia. 2 A person who
has great power ur authority: a tzur of
i"d,,"try.~- cza.ri'na n,ffilll.
Etymology: This word derives from Gaius
Julius Cae""r, the Ruman geneml and states­
man who died in 44 B.C,
Spelling tip: Although czar is the most
common spelling, tsar and tzur are acceptable
variations.

~ ravor by flattery, etc. Syn. 2 hOH:5 ehief, Jktatur, cHillain, aruiler.

~
573
~
~.

qachshund decadence
f.}
!iachs.hund (daks'hOont' or daks'hOond') n.
A breed of dog native to Germany, having a
long body, short legs, and a short coat.
SpelUng tip; Heed the two h's in dachshund.
qah\.ia (dal'ya) n.
A perennial plant having showy red, purple,
yellow, or white flowers.
Etymology: Named after Anders Dahl, an
eighteenth-century Swedish botanist.
gair.y (dflr'e) n., dair·ies pI.
. l A farm for producing milk. 2 A place
where milk and milk products are kept,
processed, or sold.
da.is (da'is, dr'es, or das) n.
A raised platform in a room or hall on which
a speaker, eminent guests, etc. may sit or
stand: II" had a Beat on the dais.
Syn. stage, rostrum, podium.
dal·ly (dal'e) v. dal.Jied. dal.ly.ing
1 To treat lightly or mockingly: the danger of
dallying with temptation. 2 To waste time:
We're already late. so stop dllllying.-dal'Ji.
anee n.
Syn. 1 play, trifle, sport, tamper, toy. 2
de·ben,ture (di·ben'char) n.
dawdle, delay, linger, tarry.
1 A certificate given as acknowledgment of
Ant. 2 hurry, hasten, rush.
debt. 2.A bond, usually without security,
dan.ger·ous (dan'jar·as) adj.
Involving risk or threatening peril: a danger­
ous mission.
Syn. perilous, hazardous, risky.
Ant. safe, secure, harmless.
da·ta (da'ta or dat'a) n.pl.
Filets or figures from which conclusions may
be drawn: data processing.
psage: Data is the Latin plural of datum,
arid'some still treat it as al.lural in English:
These dala have been sludie . But the word is
now widely used with a singular verb: No
data is available.
8yn. informatiop, intelligence, evidence.
daub (dob) v., n.
II. 1 To smear or coat with something sticky
or oily: She daubed her face with cold cream.
2 To apply paint or color in a crude or care­
less way: an unskilled amateur daubing on
splashes of paint.
n. Any sticky application, smear, or spot.
Syn. v. 1 cover, plaster. 2 splash, dash. n.
splash, smir\!h, stain.
daunt (dont OT dant) II.
To dishearten, frighten, or discourage: Fait­
ure did not daunt him.
Syn. intimidate, cow, dismay, abash.
dec·ade (dek'ad) n.
Ant. encourage, hearten, embolden.
A period of ten years: the decade of lhe 19508.
4aunt·less (dont'lis or dant'lis) adj.
. Not shak,en or discourageq by fear: lIe
pre88ed on with dauntless determination.
Syn. fearless, intrepid, valiant.
",nt. intimidated, timid, fainthearted,
I}au.phin (dO/fin; French d(l,fanJ ) n.
'The eldest son of a king of France, a title
used from 1349 to 1830.
Syn. decay, degeneration, wane, retrogr~~­
Spelling ilp: Don't confusedauphin(a prince)
Aion.
with dolphin (a porpoise).
Ant. rise, flowering, blossoming, progres,,_
514
..
<law.dle (dod'l) v. daw.dled, daw.dling
To waste time in slow trifling: IIHrry up­
don '/ dawdle ..
Syn. idle, dally, loiter, fiddle.
Ant. hurry, rush, hasten.
dearth (durth) n,
A lack or scarcity: a dearth of fresh ideas.
Syn. absence, shortage, deficiency.
Ant. abundance, plenitude, suiliciency.
de,base (di'bas') v. dc,bascd, dc·bas·lng
'1'0 lower in quality, character, or worth: In­
flation debases the currency.
Syn. degrade, demean, depreciat(' .
Ani. raise, exalt, uplift, cnlloble.
de,bauch (di,bOch') v., n.
v. 1 '1'0 corrupt in morals or principles: de­
bauched by evil associates. 2 To overindulge
one's sensual appetites.
n, A n act or period of gross senHua\ indul­
gence or riotous living: a week's debaHcl1.
Also de·bauch·er·y (di·bQ'char·e) n.
Syn. v. 1 seduce, degrade. 2 dissipate, ca­
rouse. 1!. orgy. carousal.
Ant. v. 1 purify, uplift. 2 abstain. n. self­
denial, continence, temperance.
issued by a corporation and orten convertible
into common stock,
Etymology: Debenture goes back to the Latin
verb debere, to owe.
de·bil·i·late (di·bil'a·tat) v. dc,bil.\.(at.ed, de·
bil,j.tat·ing
To make feehle or lallguici: It bod"y <lcbiliiaied
by a lingering illness; a hot, humid, debilitat­
ing climate.
Syn. weaken, enfeeble, enervate.
Ant. strengthen, invigorate, enliven.
deb·o·nair (deb'a·nar') adj.
Cheerful, pleasant, and assured, with care­
free good spirits or a worldly-wise air of
elegance: a lighthearted, debonair fellow with
a flower in his bHltonhole.
Syn. urbane, jaunty, suave, nonchalant.
Ant. sedate, staid, gauche, clumsy.
de·but (di·byoo', da.byoo', or da'byoo) n.
1 A first public appearance, as on the stage:
an actor's Broadway debut, 2 The formal en­
trance of a girl into fashionable society; She
made her debut at Ihe ball.
Syn. 1 bow. 2 coming-out.
deb·u·tante (deb'y06.tiint) n.
A young woman making a debut in society.
Etymology: Decade goes back to the Greek
word deka, meaning ten. A decagon has ten
sides; the decathton is a ten-event contest.
dec·a·dence (dek'a·d,ms or di·kad'ns) n.
A process or period of deterioratioll or de­
c1ine,"as in art or morals: the decadence of the
Roman Empire in its last years.
~
~
~
~
~ deceive defeatist
~
de·ceive (di-sev') v. de·ceived, de.ceiv.inil Syn. downgrad'c, inclim,.

~ To trick or mislead by deliberately givlllg a

false impression: I thouyht him hone~I, but he
Ant. acclivity, upgrade,

de· cor (da'kar or da·kor') n.

~
deceived me about his past. I The scheme or style of decoration in a
Spelling tip: Don't let this word deceive you

-~remember the c, and the old rule °i before

room, home, club, etc.: The guest hause has

Pren,,!! Prqvil!cial decur. 2 Stage scenery.
~ e except ailer c."

Syn. fool, delude, dupe, hoodwink.

Spelling tip: Also wrillon decor.

Syn .. 2 sets, lniae en sceue.
~ de·cent (de'sclnt) adj.
I Proper or respectable: decellt behavior. 2
dec·o·ra·tive (dek'(a)r.-liv or dek'i)·ra'tiv)
adj.
Fairly good: a decent place 10 live, but no
~ palace. 3 Generous or kind: lie was very
decellt in his treatment oJus.~-de'cen.c)' n.,
Serving to make more faney or aitraetive:
a decorat ive pinon her blouse.
Syn. ornamental, dressy.
-~
de'cent.lyadv.

Spelling tip: Don't confuse decent with de­

dec·o·rous (dek'"r.8s UT di.kar'"s) a<ij.
scent' (a going down) or with dis-sent' (dis­
I)rolwr and (;urrcLl in a rCKtralued or fortn:ll
~ agreement or to disagree). A decent mal!

expresses dissent without a descent to indecency.

way: the decurv"" behavior uj Sunday charch­

goers.----dec'o.rous.lya!lv.

~
S)'n. I appropriate, seemly, suitahle. 2 satis­
S),n. seemly, conventional, demure.
factory, adequate, passable. 3 honorable,
Ant. ullconventional, ullorthod(lx.
fair, reasonable. ­ de·co·rum (Ji-kGr".lm) n.
~ Ant. I indecent, unseemly. 2 poor, inade­

quate. 3 unfair, harsh.

Conformity Lo set requirements uf tatite

social convention: the governess's
~ de·cid·u·ous (di.sij'60.;)s) adj,
I Falling off when mature or at certain sea­
insistnlC( VI! ciigHily and decofllm.
S),ll. propriety, seemliness, etiquette.
SonA: deciduous fruit. An antler is a deciduous Ant~ iOlpropriely. illd{~corum! nOlH:onfonnit.y.
~ outgruwlit lhat a deer sheds annu,,!ly. 2 An­
nually shedding leaves or foliage: deciduous
de· coy (di·koi' or del",i -/I.; di-koi' 1'.) II., v.
n. A person, animal, or thing used to lure an
~ trees.
Ant. 2 evergreen.
unsuspecting victim into a trap.
v. To lure or be lured: A loue runner decuyed
;;~ dec·i·maie (deB'a-mlii) v. dec-i·mat·ed, dcc·i·
mat·ing
th(;m. flWt1!1 frOtH tlw rc(d e;:;C(lpc fouil'.
Syn. H. lure, bah" eniicl:rnent. 1). enlit:t>,
To destroy or kill a large proportion 01: dc·cry (di-kril) 1'. de-cried, dc-cry·inl(
~ Disease decimated their rai!ks.-dec'i·mu'­
lion n_
To denounce or condemn: 1'},( ncwlipaper
decried the cawurdice oj lite l,!gi,latlll'e.
Etymology: Decimate derives from the Latin
~ decimaTe, meaning to take a tenth part from.
Hence decimale came to inJicate the killing
SYIl. deplore, cel1l-3ure.

Aut. prahw t extol, laud, eUlnnlt;bd.

~ of one out of every ten of a given group. Now
it poiuts to an even more disastrous reduc­
tion.
~ Syn. massacre, slaughter.
de·ci·sion (di·sizh'iln) n.
de fac·to (de fak'to)
Existing ill fact, with or without legal "anc­
tion: ele jac/o .eyregulion in lleiyhborhood
schmds; u de: Judo gUllCrUitWllt oJler the coup
d'etat.

~ I 'The act of deciding: (I difficult decision. 2 A

conclusion or judgment: a cuurt decision.
def·a·ma·tjoll (d(,f'<l·ma'tih,m) I!.
Slanderous abuse of tile character or reputa­
3 Firmness in judgment, action, or charac­ tion of an individual or group: The potiticia"/!
-.~ ter: She actd'with decision. l;l1wd the uwg(lZi1LC for d,/urtwtiuH oj dwrucler;
Syn. I choice, determination. Z settlemem, the Anli-Deji{JllaiilJl! Lmyue of lJ'lwi n'rilh.·-·­
-S!J verdict, finding. 3 determination, resolution,
resolve.
de·fame (di-fam') r_, de·fam·".to.l')' (di-fam'­
a-tOr'e) adj.
Ant. _3 doubt, hesitation, indecision. S),I1. slander, libel, vilification, disparage­
~ ment, a'spersioH, ca~u[nny.

de·ci·sivc (di-sl'siv) adj.

I Settling a matter definitely: a decisi,j'c d~­ de·fault (Ji·fOlt') 1._. P.

feat. 2 Firm and definite: a decisive executive. n. A failure to fulfill an olllig;aLion or require­
~ 3 Unquestionahle: They had a decisit'e edge ment, as to pay money due, to appear in
on their competitors.-de.ci'sive·ly adl'., de· court, or to appear for or finish a contest:
~
~
-
d'::;ive·lIe!;o u.
S),n. I conclusive, delinitive, positive. 2 de­
termined, resolute. 3 unmistakable, undoubt­
able.
ttl /""e by default; jllilullli'Ht by defHull.
v. '1'0 fail to perform 01' pay: to de/mIlt i!
payment.
de·feai·isi (dUe'tist) 1/., adj.
Ant. I inconclusive, disputable, debatable. 1<. A person who expects to lose or fail and
~ Z indecisive, irresolute, vacillating. 3 dubious. therefore does not really try! A irl<" d"fcati"t

..........
de·eliv·i·ly (di·kliv'a·te) ll., de·c1iv.j·ties pl.
A downward slope or descending surface:
Thelliooked down to the bottom of the immel/s.,
dechvity fTom their upland l'unlage point.- dc­
is cOHlJinced he uilt never win.
adj. Typical of a defeatist: it dcfealist aUi­
t>"de.~de·(ellt'i~m n.
8yn .. n. pessimist. udj. Ii~.:;;tlilni$tic, IH!~<div8.
~ cli·vous (di·kli'vasJ adj. Ant. I!. olltimist. adj. optimistic, p()sitlve.

~
575
~
L
qefectiQl1
de·fec·tion (di·fek'shan) n.
The act of deserting one's own side and going
over to the opponents: the defection of a Com­
munist to the Wesl.--de·fecl' v., de·fcc'tor n.
de·fense (di·fens') n.
1 A guarding against danger or attack, or
something that gives protection: national
defense. 2 A justifying argument or answer
to charges: A plea of insanity was the basis of
his defense.
de·fer (di.ffjr ' ) v. dc·ferred, de·fer·ring
1 To put off or postpone; to defer payment.
'2 To yield out of respect: Defer to Ihe lvishes
of your elders.
Spelling tip: Words that end in a single
vowel and consonant, and are accented on
the last syllable, double the final consonant
before a sutnx beginning with a vowel.
Syn. 1 delay, procrastinate. 2 submit, give
in, accede.
Ant. 1 rush, expedite. 2 defy, resist.
Q,ef·er·ence (def'ar·,ms) n.
Respect for or obedience to another's opin­
ions or wishes: In deference to ihe wishes of
Ihe widow, charitable ton/dolliiuns shot.ld be
made in lieu of flowers.
Syn. consideration, submission.
or lawbreaking: juvenile deli1l<jucnls.
Ant. disregard, defiance, scorn.
adj, 1 Late or neglectful: lie is always de­
de.fi·cient (di·fish'ant) adj.
linquent ill puying/he relli. 2 Due but unpaid:
Not complete: a diet deficient ill pro/cin.
delinqltelll laxes.·-do.lill'quen·cy n.
def·i·cit (def'G·sit) n.
The amount by which an expected or re­
quired sum falls short, or an excess of debits
over credits: the national deficit.
Syn. shortage.
Ant. surplus, excess.
de·file (di.fi!'j v. de·filed, de.IWing
To make foul or dirty; to pollute something
previously pure or holy: Uns!cbstantiated
charges of corruplion defiled his reputation.
S),n. sully, besmirch.
AnI. enlighten.
Ant. cleanse, purify.
de·fin·j·tive (di·fin'a·tiv) adj,
1 Sharply defined; explicit: a definitive pro­
gram for reform. 2 Conclusive or final: a
definitive vic/ory.
Syn. 1 categorical, exact. 2 decisive, ultimate.
Ant. 1 vague, ill-defined. 2 equivocal, tenta­
tive, preliminary.
de·fleet (di·flekt') v.
To turn aside; to cause to swerve from a
straight course: The net deflected the tennis
ball.
Syn. divert, refract.
de·fund (dHungkt') adj.
Dead; extinct: _Many once-prosperous news­
papers have gone bankrupt and are now deflinct.
de·j·fy (de'a·fi) v. de·i·lied, de·j.Cy·jng
To make a god of: The Roman emperor Au­
gustus was deified and worshiped after his
Cf.,4.
death.
Spelling tip:. Remember the i in this word,
which is pronounceq a.
deign (dan) v.
To condescend to do something: The queen
deigned to speak to the commoner,
576
demagogue
de jure (de iOcr'e) adj.
By right; according to law: The government­
in-exile is recognized as the de jure gotlcrnment.
Syn. rightful, legitimate, legal.
del·e·gate (del'a·gat n., v.; also del''''gitfor n.)
n.; 11. del.e.gated. del·e·ga'.ing
n. A person with authority to ~l)('"k for or
act for others; a representative: congressional
delcgat~s.
v. 1 To send as a representative: lie delegated
his assistant 10 work out the dcloils. 2 To turn
over to an agent or represC!ntativc: fie dele­
gated his aulhority to his assistant.
Srn. n. deputy, envoy, emissary. v. 1 depu­
tize, comrnb;slon, authorizG, 2 assign, entrust.
de·lete (tli.leV) v. de·let·cd, uc·)d·ing
To take out written or printed matter: lle
deleted the last paragrupli of the arlicle.
Syn. strike out, excise, expunge, cancel.
Ant. insert, add.
de·lin.e·a·tion (dj·!in'1dl.'shdtl) n.
Pictorial or verbal portrayal: delincation of a
face; delincatiun of character.
Syn. depiction, representation.
de·lin·quellt (di·ling'kwant) n., adj.
n. A person guilty uf negJigenee wrongdulug,
1
de·lir·i· um (d i·lir ' e-dm) Ji.
A temporary mental dbt urbance cbaracter­
ized by hallucination and excitement, and
caused by fever, injury, or intoxication.
de·liv·er.ance (di·li Vi ar.011s) n.
Helease or resCUe: deliverance/rum hn' caplu1'a.
de·lude (dd6od ' ) v. de.iud·ed, dc.lud·ing
To deceive, mislead; They lilOltght the ,(lar
woald end by Christmas, bul tliey 'Were dcllukd.
Syn. fool, dupe.
del·uge (del'yooj) n.; I'. dcl-ugcd, del·ug.ing
n. 1 A great flood or downpour of water.
2 Something that overwhelms 01' 8ngulfs:
a deluge of Christ mas lItaii.
v. I 'ro flood with water: 'The raills deluged
the land. 2 To overwhelm or engulf; The stock
market is deluged with orders.
Syn. n. 1 cloudburst, inundation. 2 mass,
heap. v. 1 inundate, drown. 2 swamp.
de·lu·sioll (di·IOO'zhan) n. .
A false belief, or a persistent false belief held
in spite of evidence to the contrary: delusion.
of grandeur.
Syn. illusiolJ, ballucination.
de·luxe (di·IOcks ' or di.luks ' ) adj.
Of extra-nne quality; elegant and expensive:
the deIu:re suite at the very best hotd ill New
York Cily. ,
Syn. l.uxuriouB, sumptuous, princely.
Ant. cheap, second-rate.
dem'lI·gogue (dem'a·gog or dem ' a.gog) n. ~
A leader who influences the populace by ap­
pealing to prejudices and passion: Hitler W(!S
a demagogue. ~
Syn. rabble-rouser, agitator, haranguer.
~
~.;
~
~

......

~
~ demeanor deride
~
de·mean·or (di·ml3'nar) n.
~
de·pic! (di·pikt') v.
Tlie manner in which a person behaves: The To portray, either pictorially or verbally: /0

judge's dignified demeanor. de pici the sCene.

~ Syn. bearing, deportment, presence.

de·mise (di·mIz') n.
8yn. represent, describe, delineate-.

dc·plete (d1'pl,,1') v. de.plet.ed, de.plet.jug

Dea th: his untimely demise.
~ Byn. decease.
Ant. birth.
To reduel!, as by using up: lll,u'", dq,/dnt his
strength.
Syn. lessen, exhaust, drain.

~ dem·i·tasse (dem'l3·tas' or dem'iHas/ ) n.

A small cup of black coffee, or the cup itself:
Ant. supplement, increase, angment.

dep·o·si.(ion (dep'u·zish'an or de'pd·zisl/,m) n.

~
sipping a demitasse after dinner.
Law A written testimony given under oath:
Etymology: This is a French word meaning
a half (demi) cup (tasse). lIis deposition 'Was introduced as evidence dar­
ing lhe trial.
~ de·mol·ish (di·mol'ish) v.
To tear down; raze, as a building; destroy; de·prav·j·ty (di.prav'd·te) n.
Wickedness or sexual immorality: Nero's
OIL~ ruin.-dem·o.li·tion (dem'a·!ish',ln) n.
Syn. wreck. depravity.
Ant. build, erect, preserve. Syn. sinfulness, vice.

~
Ant. purity, chastity, virtue.

de·mon.stra·ble (di·mon/stN·bal or dem'an­

stra.bel) adj.
dep.re·cate (dep'ra·kat) v. dep.re·cat.cd, dep.
re.cat·lng
~
Capable of being demonstrated or proved;

provahle: tlte demonstrable fact that the earth

r"r() eXI;fe;;s di.xapproval of: He dr'prcCtded the

is round.
proposal 10 build fl 'Ill'''' hiyi/l!'<lY. dep.re.ca.
~ 8yn. confirmable, verifiable.

Ant. unverifiable.

to.ry (dep'ru·k,,·t6r'e or dep'r,)·k,,·to're) adj.

Etymology: Deprecate derives from the Latin
word deprecari, which means to pray away.
~ dem·on·strate (dem'an·strat) v. dem.on·
strat·ed, dern.on.strat.irig Usage: See IJEPHECIATl'l.
8yn. criticize, disparage, delllui'C.
1 To make clear by means of illustration or
~ by reasoning: Fie demonstrated how Ihe wn
opener worked. 2 'fo take part in a public
Ant. praise, compliment, acclaim.
de.pre·cj·a Ie (di,pre'shti-iH) v. de.prc.d.at.cd,

~
meeting, parade, etc.: The peace marchers
demonstraled last Tuesday.
Syn. I explain, show, illustrate.
~
dc·mur (di·mur') v. de·murred, de.rour.ring
To offer obiect.ions; to take exception: The
others agreed, but Jim demurred.
""U'*J Spelling tip: Do not confuse this word with
proval of or regret for. However, in recent
demure (di'mYO"br'), meaning prim or sedate.
de·pre,ci·at·jng
I To make or become less valuable. 2 To
LeJitilu; to nlinimize Uw inlIH.H'tan(~p of:
1
7 jw tobacco-industry spukesuUlu depreciated
Uw ",edical jiudillgs.-·dc.pre'd.a'tion H.
Usage: Deprecate means to express disap­
yHar~ tlcprl'{~alt; liaS ()flen been u~p(i in plueu

~ 8yn. dissent, object, hedge.

of depreei"l!! to mean belittle; 10 '),'pr"cale
Ant. agree, consent, comply, concur.
aHulher's dccompliHliTJIt:HIi'i.: (l ;3clj-tiupT(waling
de.mur·rage (di·mur'ij) n. smile.
~ 1 The detention of a freighter, freight car,
or other commercial conveyance beyond the
Syn. I devalue. lower. :1 disjlarage. underrate.
Ant. 1 influte. 2 exaggerate, uverrall;.

~ scheduled departure time as a result of delay

in loading or unloading: a twa-day demurraye
because of the strike. 2 Compensation for such
a delay: fifty dallars demurrage.
den·i.grate (den'a·grat) v. den·j·grat·ed, den.
j.grat.lng
To slander or defame: Journalists denigraled
the great man.
8yn. asperse, disparage, malign.
of thought or feeling: a piau with grcal deplh.
Alit. prabe, acdaim, laud, extol.
8yu. 2 prufundity, intensity.
dcn·im (den'ilm) n.
A strong, twilled cotton used for such gar­
ments as overalls: blue deni-m ''''''garees.
den·i·zen (den'a·zen) n.
All inhabitant or occupant: rabbits, chip­
dep.re·da.(ion (dep'r;)·du'"hdll) ''­
The act of plundering or robbing: IVartime
deprulaliolls kft lite cvltntry ill (l s{a/e of law­
lessness and disurder.
Syo. s(leking, thievHy, mpacity.
depth (depthj H.
I Extent or distance downward, in ward, or
backward: the ,tefl!1I vf the OC,'",1. 2 Deepness
Ant. 2 superficiality, shallowne~s.
der·e·lid (de)"')·lik1) 'hlj., II.
adj. Neglectful; remi"": '1'lte filthllltuu,,,
she iDas c/i:rdict i it j}('rfur wi ng Jwlt~H'hvld
n. A sodal outcast, U~ a trainp or vag:runt.~

munks, and other denizens of Ihe UJOOt/Ii. dcr'c·lic'HolI II.

8yn. resident, native, habitue. Syn. adj. negligent. II. bum, wast",,!, pall­

de·no·ta·tiOl1 (de'nO·tA'shan) n. handler, wino.

The literal meaning of a word, as distill­ Ant. adj. 1'8sp()nBible. dutiful. a. solid "iti~,,,l.

guished from its connotation (what it sug­ de· ride (di·rId') v. de.rid,ed, de.rid,iug
gests): The denotation of "tl blonde" is "u girl To treat scornfully; ridicule: He durid"d th"
!Oith golden hair." i,lea thai poverty could be elimi1taled /limpl'y by
Usage: See CONNOTATION.
handing 01lt IiWl!ey tn Ii",
Syn. meaning, designation.
Syn. mal,(! fun of, :sc:urn,

577
 e!!!!!!!I
CI!!!!S
qerision desultory
de.ri·sion (di·rizh'an) n.
Ridicule. mockery: The politician's claim
tlmt his visit lOas "nonpolitical" was the sub­
ject of some derision.
der.ma·ti·tis (dur'ma·tj'tis) n.
stricken and wretched: His sudden death

desolated his family.-des'o.la't\on n.

Syn. adj. 1 deserted, barren. 2 lonely, iso­

lated. 3 cheerless. v. 1 ravage. 2 depress.

Ant. adj. 1 populated, lively. 3 cheerful. v.

....
C!!!!!I.

't!!I!!!!!I.

Inflammation of the skin. 2 cheer. enJi ven.

Spelling tip: The suffix that means "inflam­ de.spair (di·spar') n., v. I!!!!!!!!!.
mation of" is -itis, as in appendicitis and n. Utter hopelessness and discouragement:

neuritis. I n despair he lUatched his burning house.

~
der.ma.tol.o.gist (dur'ma·tol'a·jist) n.
A doctor who specializes in dermatolol\Y, the
branch of medicine relating to the skill and
v. To lose or abandon hope: He despaired of
ever recapturing his youthfUl enthusiasm.
Syn. n. gloom. despondency, desperation.
·
f:!!!!!!!!I
its diseases. Ani. n. hopefulness, cheer.
de,rog·a·to·ry (di.rog'a·ti'ir'e) adj. v. hope. I!!!!!.
B~littling, disparaging: Her grandmother des·per.a.do (des'pa·ra'do or des'pa·ra'do) •
made derogatory remarks about her short skirt. n., des·per.a·does or des.pcr.a.dos pI.

Syn. critical.
A desperate or viulent CrIminal. ~
Ant. complimentary, laudatory.
Etymology: Desperado is an Old Spanish

de·scend (di.send') v.
word related to despair and desperate.

Syn. ruffian, brigand. gangster.

~
1 To go from a higher level to a lower one:
des.pi.ca.ble (des'pi·k;)ob;)1 or diosl'ik'a·b"l)
Site descended the stainvay. 2 To lower one­
self: She descended to taWing. 3 '1'0 be derived ad}. ~
by heredity: Alost Americans are descended Contemptible, vile, despicable mail who profit

from imllligrants. 4 To attack suddenly in by lIuman sufferill(J. ~

great numbers. so as to overwhelm: The Syn. mean, wicked, awful.

Nazis descended on Paris. Ani. admirable. wonderful.

de·seen·dun! (di·sen'd"nl) n. de,slloil (disJloil') v.

One who is descended from anuther; off­ '1'0 slrip of possessions; rob: '1'''" conquering
tribes des poil~d the land.
spring: a descendant of early Irish immigrants.
de. scent (di.sent') n.
Syn. plunder. pillage. .
The aCt of moving downward: The descent de·spon.den.cy (di·spon'danose) n.
from the !nountain "'U8 more danoerouB than A feeling 01 depression or hopelessness: de­
tlte ascent. 81wndency over his futher's death. Also dc·
Spelling tip: Do not confuse descent (from spon'dence '/I. ~
descend). dissent. and decent. Dissent (di­ Syn. dejection. despair, demoralization.
Ant. cheerfulness. joy, exuberance.
•
sent') refers to differences of opinion: Dissent ~
must be tolerated in a democracy. Decent (de'­
sant) means proper or respeclable: decent
de·spon.dent (di·spon'dunt) adj.
Depressed because of a sense of hopelessness

..
or loss of courage: The prolonged illness made ~
manners.
Syn. coming down.

Ant. going up, climbing.

him despondent.-de.spon'dent.ly ad •.
Syn. discouraged, dejected.
.

I\!!!!!!!Jls
de·sery (di·skrl') v. de.seried. de.sery·ing
To discover or discern visually: to descry a
Ant. cheerful, hopeful. uptimistic.
des.pot,ism (des'pa·tizfam) n.
.
~
man on horseback far up the road.
Syn. detect, perceive, spot.
Unlimited authority; tyrannical control:
Some adolescents regard parental control as a .
form of despotism. ~
des·e·crate (des'a·krat) v. des·e·erat·ed. dcs.
e·crat·ing
To treat sacrilegiously something held
Syn. authoritarianism, aosoluLism, totali­
tarianism.
..
~
sacred: to desecrate the shrine by h~rdi'/lg goat8
into it.
des·sert (di,zlIrt') )1.
A serving of paslry, iee cream, fruit. etc. at .
Syn. profane. defile, sully.
the end of lunch or dinner. ~
Ant. revere, consecrate. hallow.
des·{i·lule (des'ta·toot) adj.
1 Entirely lacking: destitute of hope. 2 Ex­
...
des·ic·cale (des'a·kat) v. des·ic·cat·ed, des.
tremely poor: destitute people who suffer from
~
ic.cat·ing
To remove the moisture from food in order
to preserve it; also. to dry thoroughly: to
malnutrition.-des'ii·tu'lion n.

Syn. 1 bereft. 2 poverty·stricken, ~

•
desfccale apricots.-des'ic.ca'lion n.
des·o·late (des'a·lit adj., des'a·liit v.) adj.; v.
de·struc·tion (diostrukfshan) n.
'1'he act of destroying, or the stale of being ~
•
des·o·lat·ed, des·o·lat·ing destl'oyed: the des/ruction of thc city by air

~
adj. 1 Destitute of inhabitants or dwellings; ,,!lack.

abandoned: towns '>nade desolate by the war. Syn. deva~tatjon. demolition, ruin.
2 Without friends; forlorn: the desolate im­ Ant. renewal, creation, birth.
migrant alone in the big city. 3 Gloomy. dreary:
the desolate, dark days of November.
des·u)·to·ry (des'al·tor'e or des'al·tofre) adj.
Passing abruptly from one thing to another;
~
v. l To lay waste or empty of inhabitants:
The plague dcsolated the city. 2 To leave grief-
disconnected: a desultory conversation.
Syn. unmethodical, casual, discontinuous.
(!"'!!!!!!
~
,
~

.........•
-"a.ij
.
~
~
~
~
~ detached diaphanous
~
de·taehed (di-tacht') adj. 1l<easurillg atmospheric pressurc. 2 A scheme,
~ 1 Separate from others: disconnected: a de­
tached garage. 2 Free from intellectual or
plan, etc., especially a crafty or evil one: Is
alco/wl a device of the dtvi!?
~ emotional involvement: .4. good judge is capa­
ble of taking a detached view oj a . case.
Syn. 1 instrument, tool. 2 stratagem, plot..
de·vi,ous (de've·as) adj.
Byn. I distinct, individual. 2 unconcerned, I Winding or leading away from tile regular,
~ impartial.
Ant. 1 joined, connected. 2 involved, con­
straight, or direct course: a devious country
lane that led nowhere. 2 Straying from the
~
cerned, biased. proper or accepted way: ,teviolts beil(ll'ior.'-­
de·tail (n. di,Hil', de'tal; v, di,tal'; llIil, de'tal) de'vi.ous.)y I1dv., de'vi.ous,ness n.
n., v. Byn. 1 roundabout, ram!Jling, indirect. 2 Ull­
~ n. 1 A separately considered part: the detail"
of the plan, 2 Military A small detachment
trustworthy, dishonest, erring.
Ant. 1 straight, direct, simple. 2 honest, trust­
~ picked to do a particular job: a detail assigned
to KP.
worthy, correct.
de· vise (tli·viz') v. de,vised, de·,is-ing
v. 1 '1'0 report minutely: to de/ail our govern­
~ 1nent's posilion in the peace talks. 2 l1Jilitary To plan or form a plan: He devised 11 scheme
fur escaping from 1Jrison.--de,vis'er n.
To pick and send off for a special duty: 10 Syn. invent, contrive, falJricate.
detail len men fOT reconnaissance.

~ Byn. n. 1 item. v. 1 spell out, specify.

de· void (dhoid') adj,
Not possessing; without: a peraullality enl irely
de·ter.gent (di·tur'jant) adj., n.
~ adj. Having cleansing qualities: a detergent
solulion.
devoid of humor.
Byn. destitute, empty, lacking.
Ant. replete, filled, abounding.
~
n. A cleansing agent: a li4Uid detergent for
cleaning dishes. de· you! (di· vout') adj.
dc·tcr·j·or·ate (di·tir'c,v,rat.') v. dc·lcr·j·or· 1 I~tlrtwstly religiou~: u. dCl1u(tl oltl (VOl/wn.
~ at·cd, de·ter.j.or.at.ing
To make or become worse: The quality of
2 Sincere, heartfelt: dCl'Oilt hope for his con­
tinue!l success.;--de.HJUl'ly ad•. , dc·voul'ness

~ workmanship has deteriomted since the turn n.

of the ce,dury.~de.lllr'j,or,a'li"n n. 8YI}. 1 PiOU,sl reverl.~nll holy. 2 (:arlie~t, fcr­
Syn. d"preciate; worRell, decay.
venL ,

~ Ant. improve, meliorate, better.

de·ter·rent (dHur'ant) adj., n.

Ant. irreligious, irnpious uHgodly. 2 inHiw:ere,

hypocritical, deceitful.

~~ adj. Tending to prevent or discourage some dex·ter,olls (dek'st(,,)ras) adj.

action: the delerren! effect of a lax increase on t Possessing skill and ease in tbe use of the
consumer spending. hands or body: (( dexterolls magician. 2 Pos­
~ n. That which prevents or discourages some
action: Military strength serves as a deterrent
sessing a quick, clever mind: a dexterous
lawyer. 3 Dune with skill and ease: his dex­
to would-be aggressors. teroll" handling of the <lisp1itc.~"dex'ler·ous.ly
~ Spelling tip: The need to remember three e' 8
and two ,'s is a deterrent to writing this word.
udv., dcx/ter.uus+ness 1t.
Spelling Up: This word may also lie spelled
~ det·o.na·tion (det'a·na'shan) n.
1 The act of exploding something: the delo­
dextrous.
di·a·be·tes (dr,a,ue'tis or dj·a-ue'te~) II.
.. ~ nation of a b01nb. 2 A sudden explosion: a
violent detonation shattered many windows.
A disease associated with deficient insulin
s(!(~rotioll, leading to an (;XCGs.<; of sugar in thi.!
bl<JOtl and urine and characterized by pro­
de·true·Hon ( di·trak'shan) n.
~ The act of diminishing i person's reputation:
All public figures suffer the detractions of
gressive elllaciation, extreme hunger and
thirst, and metabolic failuw,-·"di·,,·uel·jc
(di'a-bet'ik or di'a,be'tik) adj., 1/.
~
petty, jealous people.
Byn. disparagement, slander, defamation di·a·bol·ic (dj'a"uol'ik) wij.
Ant. flattery, praise. Of, belonging to, coming from, or lilw the
~
-

~
-

dev.as·tate (dev'as,tat) v, dev·as.tal,ed, dey.

as·tat·ing
To lay waste, as by war, fire, or flood; ravage:
Large parts of London were devastatcd by the
Nazi I!/itz.
devil: a diabolic crime. Also di'a,uol'i.cal
adj.-~di'a.bol'i.cal.ly "dv,
Byn. satanic, wicked, fiendi"h.
di·a·!oguc (di'a,log or dj'.)"h'g) n.
1 J\ cOHv(!r~5atiun in w\dch two or llh)n: per­
~ Syn. <Icciolate, destroy, ruin.
Ant. build, cr011 teo
sons talw part: Viti you hcuf the diulogue at
lltr /"bl<' )(I'xt tu (Jill'S! 2 '1'1", '''HlYcl'!'lation in

de.vel.op (di-vc!'"p) v.
1 To eXlland o. work out: to develop "" idea.
2 In photography To Hubject cxpoHCd photo­
a play, Hovel, etc_

S"dling lir: A It hough diu/uU is all aecepLable

Bpdling 0 lhb word, di!lloVH<~ iH pl'\~rl'l'red.

grapb material to a chemical treatment BO Syn. 1 talk, ehal, db"u:;,,!oll.

as to produce a visual image: to develop jilm. di·aph·a.\lous (di-af'",nJs) adj.

-de.vel'op.ment n., de·vel'oped adj. So thin in substance that light shows through:
de· vice (di,vls') n. " diupiUlliOU" nightyown.
1 Something devised or construct.ed for a Syn~ tramdueent, trantiparent, ;-;lll!er, gauzy,
specific purpose: A baromeier i8 a device for gossunler.

579

J _~_

diaphragm dilate
di.a.phragm' (dr'a·fram) n.
1 The muscular wall that separates the chest
and abdominal cavities in mammals. 2 Any
membrane or partition that separates or dI­
vides; also, any device that resembles such
a partition in a.ppearance or function: A di­
aphragm is a birth-contTol detice. 3 A disk
with an adjustable opening that can control
the amount of light passing through the lens
of a camera, telescope, etc.
Spelling tip: Watch the silent U and the ph
(pronounced f, as in phone).
di·ar·rhe·a (dj,,,.ri!'a) n. ,
A bodily disorder in which the bowels move
too frequently and tuo loosely.
di.a.ry (dI'(a)r€ ) n., di·a·ries pI.
1 A record of daily events, especially a per­
sonal record of a person's activities, experi­
ences, or observations. 2 A book for keeping
such a record.
Syn. bashfulncso. ll1oucoly.
di·a.ther.my (di'a·thur'me) n., di·a·ther.mies
pi.
A treatment used for medical or surgical pur­
poses, in which heat is generated in the body
tissues through their resistance to the pas­
sage of high-frequency electric currents.
di·a·tribe (di'a-trib) n.
A hitter or malicious speech or piece of writ­
ing, usually critical and often long: Castro's
frequent diatribes a9ainst the U.S.
Syn. harangue, tirade, vilification.
die·tn·tor (dik'UHar or dik·tll.'tar) n.
1 A person who has absolute powers of gov­
ernment in a state. 2 A person who rules, pre­
scribes, or suggests authoritatively: Dior is
a dictator of fashion. 3 A person who speaks
words that are to be recorded or written.­
die'la·to'd·al adj., dic'ta.to'ri.al.ly adv.,
dic·ta'tor·ship' n.
Syn. 1 tyrant, despot, autocrat. 2 arbiter,
czar.
die·tum (dik'tam) n., die· turns or dic·ta
(dik'ta) pl.
An authoritative statement, usually made in
a formal way: the first dictum of the junta after
their overthrow of the monarchy.
Syn. pronouncement, dictate.
di.dae·tic (di.dak'tik or di·dak'tik) adj.
1 Intended to instruct or guide: a didactic
e88UY. 2 Inclined to teach or moralize: a very
stuffy person whose mOBt casual conversation
revealed his didactic nalllre.-di·dac'ti.ca\.ly
adv.
Syn. 1 instructive, expository, informative.
2 pedantic, moralistic, pedagogic.
die (dO n., die" pI. for drJ. 1, dies pI. for til'/. 2;
u. 1 A small marked cube. Note that the
irregular plural form of this word, dice, not
only designates more than one die but also is
the name of the game of chance played with
thes!, cuh"". 2 Any of various tools or devic"s
for shaping, stamping, or cutting out some
object, as the eni\raved stamp used to press a
design on metal In coining money.
di·er·e·sis (dr·er'a·sis) n., di.er·e·ses (di·er'a·
si!z) pI.
Two dots ( .. ) placed over the second o[ two
580
~
3
~
~
adjacent vowels to indicate that two
~
~eparate vowel sounds are to be pronounced,
~
as sometimes in naive.
Spelling tip: Also spelled di"crt'si$.
dif·fer·en·Hal (dif'd'ren'sh"l) adj., n.
~
adj. Having to do with, indicating, or based
on a difference or differences: a differential
pay scale for union and nonunion employees.
N
n. An arrangement of gears used to connect
two or more shafts, as in the driving axle of
an automobile, so that the wheels can move
at different speeds on curves.
ell
+
Spelling tip: Different -in/-watch the last
e!II
syllable!
dif·fi·dcllcc (dif'v,dun,) n.
=­
Lack of confidence in oneself; timidity or
shyness: the diffidence of the trainee ill address·
ing the company president.-~dif'ti·dent adj.,
dif'jj.dent.ly adv. ~
Ant. self-confidence, tielf-ao,urance, boldness,
forwardness.
dif.fuse (dUyooz' v., di·fyOos' adj.) v. dif·fused,
dif·fus·ing; adj.
v. To spread ablJut in all directions: lIeat
from the fireplace diffused throughout the room.
adj. 1 Widel¥ spread out: diffuse injiamma­
tion of the tlSS1WS. 2 Characterized by the
excessive use of words: a diffuse prose style.
~dif·fu'sion n.
Syn. v. circulate, permeate. udj. 1 dispersed,
scattered, widespread. 2 verbose, wordy,
long-winded.
di.gest (di·jest' or di·jest' v.; di'jest n.) v., n.
v. 1 To change food chemicully in tile aliment­
ary canal into u form that can be assimilated
by the body: Some people find it difficult to
digest nuts. 2 '1'0 take in mentally: The student
scratched his head as he tried to digest 'What the
teacher was saying.
n. A collection or summary of literary,
scientific, or other material: a digest of articles ~
from leading 'magazine~.~-di.ges'tion '11.
Syn. v. 2 comprehend, understand. ~
dig.i·tal (dij'u·t"l) adj.
I or or relating to the fingers or toes: a baby
~
with poor digital grasp. 2 Of or relating to
calculation by numencal methods: a dig'ilai
computer. ~
di.~re8.sive (di·gr"s'iv ur di.gres'iv) adj.
Given to or marked by a turning aside from
the main subject: II digressive speech that
e;-5
overlooked essentials for incideHt(/ls.-~di.gres'·
sion n., di.gress' v. "" '
Syn. discursive, excursive, famllling, wander­
ing.
Ant. direct, pointed, succinct, terse. ~
di·)llp·j.llal·cd (di·jall''}·dfl'ti(\) adj.
Fallen into decay or partial ruin: " dilapi­ ~
dated 1950 Pord.
Spelling lip: Nole th" lwo i's ill tllis W.Ol'li.
Syn. negJected, ramshackle. decayed, rickety. ~
1 To make or become larger or wider: The r
di·late (dHat' or dilat') v. di.lat·ed, dl·lat.!ng
pupil of tlie cye dillttcs in the dark. 2 To speak
or write diJIusel~: to dilate on a subj«c/ tlral ~
required simplic~ty and directness.-di·lat'a.
~
-
"-­
~
"""!'!
..
~
~
~
~
~
~ disavowal
Q.ilatory

~ hie adj., di.)al'a·bil'j.ly, di·lat'a·ble·ness n.,

di.lat'a.blyadv.

Syn. 1 enlarge, widen, distend. 2 enlarge,

jurisdiction of a bishop: the diocese of New

York.-di·ne·e.san (df·os'a·san or dl'a,se'san)
adj., n.
~ expatiate, descant.

Ant. 1 contract, shrink, lessen. 2 shorten,

diph.the.rj.a (dif.thir'(j·a or dip·thir'e,a) n.
A highly contagious disease, usually con­
~
condense, abridge.'
tracted. by children, characterized by fever,
dil·Q·to·ry (dil'a·tOr'ij or dil',,·tO'rll) adj. great wcaknes", and the formatio!] of a fals"
I Given to or characterized by delay: membrane in the air pussages which impede;;
~ di/atory ill paying bills. 2 Tending to cause
delay: dilatory tactics thai hindered passage of
breathing.
Spelling tip: Beware of the ph, which may be
~ the tax reforms.-dil'a·lo'ri.ll' adv., dil'a·lo'·
ri.ness n.
Syn. 1 tardy, slow, sluggish. 2 obstructive,
pronounced f (as in phone) or p.
diph.lhong (dif'thOng or dip'thong) n.
~ impeding, retarding. A blend or two vowel sounds ill one srllable,
Ant. 1 prompt, punctual. wltether written with two letters (oi III coil)
or one letter (i in /ine).
~ di·lem·ma (di·lem'a) n.
A situation requiring a choice between two
Spelling tip: See DIPHTHERIA.
alternatives that are equally bad, unpleasant, di·plo·ma (di·pl6'ma) n.
~ or undesirable.
Syn. predicament, quandary, plight, impasse.
A certificate given by a school, college, or
university testifying thut a student has
earned a degree or completed a course of
~ dil·et·tan·te (dil'a·tant' or dil'a·tan'te) n.,
dil·el·tan.lea or dil·el·lan·ti (dil'J·tan'tll) pI. study.
Etymo]oIlY: LJil'lul1W comes from all ancient
A person who interests himself superficially
~ or merely for amusement in art, science, or
another subject.
Greek word thut literally means " paper
folded twice.

~ Syn. dabbler, amateur.

dil·j·gent (dil'a.jant) adj.
di·lllo.mat (dip'ld'mat) n.
1 A person engaged in conduding negotia­
tions between countries. 2 Any pemun having
~
I Showinlj: perseverence and application in
whatever IS undertaken: a diligent employee. skill and tact in dealing with oth,)!s: an office
2 Pursued with painstaking effort: a diligent divlomal.--dip'lo.mat'jc adj., dip'lo.lllUt'i.

~ seo:rch.--dil'j.gent.ly adv. cal.ll'adv.

Byn. 1 indu~trious, hard-working, aHsiduouH. Syn. 1 elniHsHry, envoy, lllnbassador, legate,
2 careful, precise, scrupulous. eO[i::'ul. 2 Htrategi:>t, rwgotiator, IHliit i{'ian.

~ Ant. 1 lazy, remiss. 2 careless, slipshod,

perfunctory.
Ant. 2 imngler, hlulltierer.
dip.sQ·ma·ni.ac (dip's,Hllu'n€ " ak) n., adj.
....,~ di·min·ish (di'min'ish) v. n. A person who has an uncontrollable

'fa make or grow smaller or less, as in size. craving for alcoholic drin];.

amount. or degree: IJack of rainfall dir"ini.ill'd (ii/j. HUVirI 1; to do willI or an"tTkd hy Hll

~ the water supply.

Byn. decrease, lessen, reduce.

uncuntrullable era v iug fur alcullulic drinIL~'

dip'so.ma'nj.a n.

.,~ Ant. enlarge, augment, increase.

Sy". It. alcoholic, drunkard, inebriate. adj.

dine (dm) v. dined, din.ing alcoholic, drunk, intemperate.

1 To eat a meal, especially the principal meal Ant. 1L teetotaler, ub;:.;tuiller. 1)_ Hober.

~ of the day: We dine at nine. 2 '1 0 entertain at

dinner: Wine and dine the visiting c~!ebrity.
temperate, abstinent.

dire (dfr) adj. dir·er, dir·esl

~ 3 To eat; feed upon: to dine on food that is too
rich.
din·ghy (dinl"gi! or ding',,) n., din·glJies pI.
Dn,udful; terrible: The lenythy illness left
them ill dire financial slrails.-~dirc'ly (ldv.,
dirc'J\cs~ n.

~ Any or vaTloUS kinds of small rowing boats,

as the tenders used by large vessels.
Syn. grim, hurruwing, woeful.
dis.up.point (di$'a·point') v.
~ Spelling tip: Beware of the silent h.
din.gy (din'jil) adj. din.gi.er, din.gi·est
To fail to fulfill the hupes of; frustrate: IIi.
vacation disappoinled him.-· dis'ap.point"­
Darkened or discolored as if soiled; grimy: menl n.
a dingy office in the old factory building.-din'­ dis·ap.prove «lis' d·pri;uv 'J v. di,,·ap·proved,
gi.ly adv., din'gi·ness n. dis·ap.prov·ing
Syn. dull, shabby, seedy, tacky. To reject or look upon with diofavur: 'l'hry
Ant. sparkling, clean, attractive. disapproved of her j1u)/ce.·-·dis'ap.prov'ing.ly
dint (dint) n., v. a<lv., dis'ap·prov'a] n.
n. 1 F'orce, elfort. means (usually used in the
Syn. condemn, censure, criticize.
phrase by dint of) : successful by dint of hard
Ant. praise, admire, like, accept.
work. 2 A dent: a dint in a car fender.
dis·a·vow·al (clis'"·vuu',,I) n.
v. To make a dent in: old cooking pats dintcd
Refusal to claim knowledge of or responsi­
by lIears of use. .
bility for something: his diwVDlcai of his own
Syn. n. 2 depression, indentation.
slwrlcom'inys.
di·o·cese (dl'a·ses or df'a·sis) n. Syn. denial, abnegation, forllwearing.

The territory and churches under the AnI. admission, acknowledgment, avowaL

581

discern
dis· cern (di·surn' or di·zurn') v.
1 To perceive, as with the sight or the mind:
to discern new buds on an apple tree; to
discern that the child was lying. 2 To recog­
nize as separate or different: to discern right
subject: a dit/cotlrae 011 world popUlation.
~
from wrong.-dis.cern'j.ble adj., dis·cern/i.
v. To set forth one's ideas concerning a
blyadv.
Spelling tip: Watch the sc.
Syn. 1 see, recognize. 2 distinguish, differ­
Syn. n. 1 speech, chut, palaver, 2 disserta­
entiate, discriminate.
tion.lecture, sermon, speech. v. discuss, orate,
e'!!!!I
dis·cern·ing (di.sur'ning or di.zur/ning) adj.
Quick to discern; discriminating: Many
pe~le follow the advice of a discerning movie
crihc..···-dis.cern'ing·ly adv.
Syn. knowing, sensitive, observant.
dis·ci·ple (di·si'pal) n.
lOne who accepts or follows a teacher or a
doctrine: a disciple of Freud, 2 (Often capital
D) One of the twelve chosen companions of
e!!!I.
Christ,
Syn. 1 follower, pupil, adherent, supporter.
2 apostle,
dis.ci.pline (dis/a·pJin) n.; v. dis.ci.plined,
dis,cl·plin.ing
n. 1 Systematic training in obedience to rules
and authority: army discipline. 2 Orllerliness
of behavior and s;o;lf-controJ resulting from
such training. 3 A branch of knowledge or
instruction. 4 Punishment for the sake of
training or correction: discipline for failing
to do homeu'o r k.
v, 1 To train to obedience: Discipline your
doq. 2 1'0 punish: Latecomers will be disci­
pltned.--dis'ci.pli.nar'yadj,
dis·c1uim (dis·klllm') v.
1 1'0 deny any claim to. connection with. or
knowledge of: He disclaimed any responsibil­
ity for tile firm's loss. 2 To reject or deny:
Protestants disclaim the authority of the Pope.
3 In law To renounce a right or claim to: to
(lisc/aim a share in an inheritance.
Syn. 1 disavow. disown. 2 repudiate. 3 give
dis· crete (dis·krH') adj.
up', abandon.
Disconnected from others; distinct or
Ant. 1 admit, acknowledge. 2 accept. 3 claim,
separate: A molecule is composed of discrete
demand.
atoms.-dis.crete'ly aciv., dis·crete'ness n.
dis,colI·tert (dis'kan.surt') v.
To disturb the self-possession or composure
of; upset: disconcerted at having to make a
8peech to a large audience.
Syn. embarrass, rattle, confuse, abash.
dis,colI·so·lute (dis·kon'sa·litj adj.
I Full of grief and sadness; unhappy: a dis­
consolale widow, 2 Cheerless, gloomy: a dis­
consolale hospital ward.-dis·con'so.lale.ly
adv., dis·con'so.late·ness n.
Syn. 1 incor.solable, forlorn, grief-"tricken.
2 dismal, dreary, depressing.
Ant. I happy, gay, hopeful. 2 cheerful,
bright, radiant.
dis·cor·dant (dis·k6r'd8nt) adj.
I Lacking agreement or unity; clashing: a
couple with 'discordant viewpoints Qn raising
children. 2 Harsh or disagreeable in sound:
discordant voices.-dis·cor'dant, y ade.
Syn. I differing, divergent, contradictory.
2 inharmonious, unmelodic, grating.
582
-~
=l1li
~
dis·coursed, dis.cours·ing
discriminating
-
~
~
dis· course (dis·kars'; also dis'kars lor n.) n.; v.
n. 1 Conversation, talk: intellectual discourse.
2 A formal written or oral treatment of a
subject: The minister discoursed upon brother­
ly love.
I!!!!!!I
declaim.
dis·cov·er (dis·kuv'dr) v. ~
I To get knowledl;e of or come upon, espe­
cially for the !lrst tln1e. 2 To find out; detect: e!!!!I!!l
lie discovered tilat his wallet was missing.
Usage: To come across something that was
always there but not previously Imown, t!!!!!!l
recognized. or understood is to discover it.
But to take things already at hand or a vuil­
able and put them together in ways that will
serve some special purpose is to illvent some­
thing: NC1cton discovered the law vf gravita­ ~
tion. Alexander Bell invented the tdcphone.
dis·creet (dis·krH') adj.
Taclful ill dealing with others; can,fui Hol to
~
do or say the wrong thing: He is Sf) discreet
that you can confide in him withollt u nwsiness.
-dis.creet'ly ad,)., dis·creet'ness n.
Spelling tir: Be careful not to confuse
~
.
(liscreet am ili~crcte, which are pronounced ~
alike. Discrete means distinct or separate.
Syn. prudent, circumspect, cautious, f!!i!!a
Ant. careless, imprudent, indiscreet.
dis,.crep·an·cy (dis·keep'all·se) n., dis.crep·nn.
au~. .
Luck of agrcenlt!llt or consistGJlcy, as between
facts: 'l'here were some discrepancies in the
accOlmts given by the two witn,'ssci!.
Syn. disparity, disagreement, inconsistency,
difference.
Ant. similarily, congruitYl acconl, agree­
ment.
dis·ere,lion (dis·kresn'.m) n.
1 'l'he quality of being discreet; tactfulness:
A doctor must use discretion in dealing uith
putients. 2 Freedom or power to make one's
own judgments and to act as one sees ill: U tie
your own di.~cr"tion in choosing a wrcer.
Syn. 1 prudellce, circumspection, restraint,
delicacy.
Ant. 1 heedlessness, recklessness, imprudence.
dis·crim·j·llu(ll. (dis·krim' ,,·nuL) v. dis·aim·i.
nat·ed, dis·crim·j·nat·ing
1 To draw a clear distinction; dilJ'erentiate:
to discriminate between good and evil. 2 '1'0
act toward a person or thing with prejudice
or partiality: to discriminate aga'inst a
minority group.-dis.crim'i.na'tion n., dis·
crim.i.na.to.ry (dis·krim'a·na·tor'e) adj.
dis.crim.i.llat·ing (dis·krim'a.na'ting) adj.
1 Able to make precise distinctions or per­
ccpti ve choices; II discri'"inatiIlY critic leh·.
could sort the good fnnn tlte bad. 2 Servihg ._
~
~
~
~
~
discursive disputable
~
identify or particularize: a discrimi11ating
csted if he does not stand to gain by his

~ mole on his forehead.

Spelling tip: There are four i's.

actions in a particular situation. An ullin­

terested person is aile without interest in

~ Syn. 1 fastidious! choosy, discerning, par­

ticular. 2 distingUlshing, unique.

something, either thrOllgh boredom or

indifference.

dis·cue·she (dis·kiir'Miv) adj. Syn. tllll'mjudiced, llllbia~('d, d"tadw,j, aloof.

~ Passing quickly from one subject to another;

wandering from the main point: The old
Ant. prejudiced, uius"<I, ,,,·If-suddllg.

dis.joint·ed (dis·join'tid) adj.

~ professor's lec{!<res tellded to be discursire.-­
dis.cur'sive.ly adv., dis·cur'sive·ness n.
Syn. digressive, long-winded, diffuse, ramlJ­
.~ ling.
Ant. orderly, coherent, logical.
OI:~ dis· ease (di·zez') n.
1 A condition of ill health in a person, plant,
or animal, especially a disordered physical
1 Taken apart at the joints: " disjointed
fowl. 2 Dislocated; a disjuin/cel knee. 3 Lack­
ing in coherence; rambling: u disj"",{ut COll­
t'crBalion between tlt'ollwllters, bolh trlling 10
watch their cit ildr"Jf , cook dinner, "wi tulk on
the telepiuHle.-··dis,joint'cd.]y ad,'., di/;,joinl'
ed.ness n.
Syn. 3 incoherent, wandering. d,,,,,dlory.

~ condition .having particular symptoms:

Diphtheria has become a rare disease. 2 Any
Ant. 3 coherent, logical, consistent.

dis·o.be·di·ent (dis'a·l,e'de·anL) adj.

~ disordered or unwholesome condition: Pover­
ty is a disease of our cities.
Refusin~ vr failing to follow orders or rules:
Disobedient ~tudellts assembled ltnlawfully.--­
Syn. 1 malady, illness, ailment, sickness. dis'o.be'di,cnce n., dis'o.be'di.en(.ly (idv.
~ 2 blight, scourge, plague.
dis.eased (di,zezd') adj.
Syn. insubordinate, refractury, detiant.
AnI. compliant, submissive, tractahle.

~ 1 Affected with an illness: Robert Louis

Stevenso1! had diseased hmgs. 2 Disordered or
dis· par· age (dis·par'ij) v. dis·par.aged, dis­
par.ag·ing
disturbed: a diseased mind; a society diseased To treat or sl'eal( or with disrespect or
~ by greed and fear.
Spelling tip: Be careful not to confuse

contempt; belittle: A. good leacher (/oel; not

disparage the efforts of stwlenls.--· dis· par' ­
~
diseased with deceased (di.sest'), which
age·mcnt n.
means dead.
Syn. rUll down, undervalue, underrate, dis­
Syn. 1 sickly, unhealthy. 2 unbalanced,
credit.
.,~ demented, unwholesome.
Ani. praise. extol.
Ant. 1 hearty, healthy, well. 2 sane, sensible,
dis·par.i,ly (dis·par',,·te) 11., dis'IHlr.i.tie,,; 1'1.
wholesome,

~
dis·ha·bille (dis'a·bill') n.
The state of being partially or negligently
~ dressed; the dishabille of the holel guests
rescued from the fire.
Etymology: Dishabille comes from
~ French word, deshubille, meaning undressed.
di·shev·eled (di.shev'ald) adj.
~ Untidy or unkempt: Afler traVeling by train
fur three days, he looked SO lite what disheveled.-­
di·shev'el·ment n.
~ Spelling lip: This word may also be spelled
disiw!'elled . .! \lost words that end in -vel offer
~
this alternate spelling: travelled, marvelled,
levelled.
Syn. tous\<,d, rumpled, slovenly, sloppy.
Ant. neat, tidy, spruce, well-groomed.
dis.in.~en.u.ous (dis'in·jen'y60·as) adj.
Lackllig sincerity, frankness, or simplicity;
An obvious difference or inequality: Ihe great
disparity between Ihe rich old mmt and tlte
penniless girl he married; the 'pain/"l disparity
between Imnwn ,"pcc/atiuns ami acilicl'"IHcuts.
Syn. unlikem:s~, disHirniiarity, discwpaney.
a Ant. likeness, similarity, equality.
dis· pel (dis.!)el') v. dis.pelled, dis'pel,ling
To drive away by or as if by seattering;
Education dispels supu,titions.
Syn. disperse, dissipate, dissolve.
dis.pen,sa·ry (dis,pen'tidr·e) n., dis·pen·sa·ries
pi.
A I'lace where medicines and medical advice
are given out fl'ee or at a nominal fee: first aid
at the schoo! disl'cnwry.
dis.perse (dis. PlUS') v. dis.persed, dis'pers.ing
To break up and scatter in different ,liree­
tions: The sun dispersed {he morning mists.

~
not straightforward: The candidate'. disin­
genuolI~ speech promising reforms failed Iv
COllvince his audieHce.--dis'in·gen'u,ous.ly
aav., dis'in.gen'u.ous·ness n.
Syn. insincere, underhanded, deceitful.
~ Ant. honest, frank, candid.
dis.in·ter·est·ed (dis·iu'tris,tid or dis·in'ta­
res/tid) adi,
Impartial and objective; without selfish
motives: Judges musl make di~i"lercs{{"(l
decisions.-·dis.in'ter.est.ed.ly adv., dis.in'­
ter.est·ed·ness n.
Usage: Disinterested is often used as a
synonym for uninterested, but careful
speakers will use it more precisel.y to mean
impartial and unbiased. A person 1S disinter-
Police ordered Ihe crowd to displ'rs(C. . dis.per'­
Hal, dis·per·sinn (db'l'ur':ch,nl) 11.
Syn. dispel, dissipate, separate, dishand.
Ant. gather, collect, condense, concentrate.
dis·pir·it·ed (dis·pir'it·id) adj.
Depressed or dejected: They 'were " IIwrunghly
<ii'l'irite(/ team after their clefc"t.
Syn. discouraged, downcast, disheartened.
Ant. encouraged, elated, heartened.
dil:i·pul·!l·ble (dis.py60'la·bal or diH'llyoo·ta­
bull adj.
Open to question or challenge: IV hether II",
National Football League or the A.merican is
stronger is a d'isputable puint.
Syn. arguable, debatable, questionable.
Ant. indisputahle, incontestable, undeniable.

583
disreputable
!p's.rep.u.ta.ble (dis·rep'ya·ta·bal) adj.
'Having a bad reputation: a disreputable bar
frequented by undesirables.
Syn. notorious, unsavory, shady, infamous.
Ant. respectable, reputable.
dis·sect (di·sekt' or di·sekt') v.
1 To cut apart in order to study the struc­
ture: to dissect a frog. 2 To analyze critically:
to dissect a poem line by line.-dis·see'tion n.
Spelling tip: Remember to write two s's, but
pronounce just one.
Syn. 1 anatomize, dismember, vivisect. 2
study, examine.
dis·sern,ble (di·sem'bal) v. dis·sem·bled. dis·
sern.bUng
1 To cover up one's true feelings or inten­
tions by pretending: She dissembled her
jealousy with a bright smile. 2 To pretend:
Hamlet dissembled madness to deceive the king.
-dis·sem'bler n.
Syn. 1 camouflage, conceal, disguise. 2 feign,
counterfeit, simulate.
Ant. 1 reveal, expose, show, manifest.
4is.sern.j.nate· (di·sem'a.nat) v. dis·sem·i·nat·
. ed, dis.sem.j.nat.ing
To spread far and wide, as if sowing seeds:
Television and radio di8seminate ideas ami
information.-dis.scm'i.na'tion n.
Etymology: Disseminate derives from Latin
roots meaning to scatter seed, or sow.
Syn. broadcast, circulate, propagate.
dis·sent (di·sent') v., n.
v. To differ in thought, opinion, or belief:
Three SU1?reme Court justices dissentell from
the majonty opinion.
n. Difference of opinion: Seventeenth-century
and distaff came to mean women in general.
religious dissent led to the Reformation.-dis.
sent'er n.
Syn. ~. disagree, demur, dispute. n. disagree­
ment, discord.
guished professor.
Ant. v. agree, assent, concur. n. agreement,
Syn. celebrated, eminent, illustrious.
concurrence.
dis·trill·ute (dis·triL'yU6l) v. dis·lrib·nt·ed,
dis·ser.ta·tion (dis'ar.t;a'shan) n.
1 An extended, formal, oral or written treat­
ment of a subject: The professor launched into
a dissertation on the habits of kangaroos. 2 A
long, written treatise required of a candidate
~
for a doctoral de!!.ree.
Syn. 1 treatise, dIscourse. 2 thesis.
(dis'tra·by60'shan) n.
dis.si·dent (dis'a.dant) ad;., n.
.adj. Expressing disagreement: a dissident
,.
faction within the university.
n. A person who actively disagrees: con­
1 The act of interrupting, bothering, or
scientious objectors and other peacefUl dissi­
denls. .
Syn. adj. dissenting. n. dissenter, noncon­
of being annoyed, troubled, or restive:
formist.
Ant. adj. concordant, harmonious. n. con­
formist.
dis· lSi· pale (dis'a·pat) v. dis·si.pat.cd, dis·si.
pat·ing
1 To break up and scatter away: With day­
light, their fears dissipated. 2 To spend waste­
fully: Don't dissipate your strength on useleBB
proJects. 3 To ov~rindulge in destructive
pleasures: dissipaling recklessly until he
became an alcolwlic.-dls'si.pa'tjon n.
Syn. l disperse, d.ispel. 2 squander.
diva
Ant. 1 consolidate, crystallize. 2 save, pre­
serve, conserve.
dis·so·lu·tion (dis'u·loo's\mn) n.
. 1 A breaking up or breaking down: the
dissolution of a marriage because of extreme
cruelty. 2 Separation into parts or compo­
nents: the disso~ution of a nation during civil
war. 3 Dismissal of a meeting or assembly.
Syn. 1 termination, destruction. 2 disintegra­
tion. 3 adiournment.
Ant. 1 building, creation. 2 integration,
uniting. 3 convocation.
dis·so.nance (dis'a-nells) n.
1 A mingling or comLination of clashing
sounds: Some modern music has jarring
dissonances. 2 Natural hostility: the disso­
nance between in-Iaws.~dis'so.nanl adj.
Syn. 1 discord, cacophony. 2 disagreement,
antagonism, conflict.
Ant. 1 harmony, concord. 2 agreement,
accord, affinity.
dis·snade (di·swad') u. dis·Bnad·ed, dis·suad·
ing
To discourage from some intention by per­
suasion; The policeman tried to dissuade him
from jtimping off lhe bridge.
Syn. deter, prevent, divert.
Ant. encourage, persuade, induce.
dis·talI (dis'tan n.
A rotating vertical staff that holds flax or
wool for use in spinning by hand.
Usage: The ilista If side refers to the maternal
branch or female line of a family, as opposed
to the. spear side, or male branch. In olden
times, spinning wa~ considered woman's work ~
II'
~
dis.til1.gnished (dis·ting'gwisht) at/j.
Outstanding because of excellence: a distin­ .
~
II'
dis.trib.nt.ing ~
1 To divide and give out: Distribute the books f
to the students. 2 To scatter or spread out: ~
Dandelions are widely dislributed over the
U.S. 3 To divide and classify: Dislribute the
,
new file records alphabelicaUy.~·dis.lti.bu.tion
Syn. 1 apportion, allol. 2 diffuse, disperse.
.
~
3 arrange, categorize.
dis·tur·bance (dis·tilr'bans) n.
~
upsetting someone or something: his dis­
turbance of the library silence. 2 The state ~
•
mental disturbance. 3 Tumult Or disruptive
disorder: ghetto disturbances that lead to riots. ~
•
Spelling lip: Watch the 11 and the a.
Syn. 2 uneasiness, agitation. 3 commotion, •
t;:-l'l!:'
unrest.
~
Ani. 2 calm, staLility. 3 peace, amity.
di·va (de'va) n., di.vas or di·ve (de'va) 1)1.
A famous female opera singer: lIfaria Callas
and Joan Sutherland are divas.
Etymology: Diva is an Italian word that
~
~
means divine.
Syn. prima donna.
~
1
~
•
~ --
..-:."""
~
~
......

~
~ diverge dominant
~ di·verge (di·vurj' or di·vurj') v. di·vergcd, v. 1 fro frc"C from the Jegal tieH of lnarriage.
~ di·verg.ing
1 To branch off in different directions from a
2 '1'0 separate forcibly, Ii is essen/i,/l 10 divorce
reasun from emution.
common point: Two roads diverged at a fork.
~ 2 To turn aside from a given course: She
diverged from her usual roule because of a
di·vor·cee (di·vor'se' or di'vor's~') n.
A divorced person.
Usage: When spelled divurcee. with an accent.
~ traffic jam. 3 '1'0 differ, as in opinion; There are
many diverging viewpoints on nuclear prolec­
thi~ word is applied only to women and
should be pronounced di·vor'sil'.
tion.~·di.ver.gence (di·vur'jans or di·yur'­
~ i~ns) n., di·ver'gent adj.

Srn. I radiate, fork. 2 deviate. 3 disagree,

di·vulge (di·vulj') v. di·vulged. di·vulg.iug

To tell. asa secret; He was accttsed of <lil,uiy­
~ dissent.
ing confidential infuTnliitiu1i.
Syn. disclose, reveal, expose.

di·verse (di·vurs' or di'vurs) adj. Ani. conceal, hide, withhold.

~
1 Marked by distinct differences; diverse
viewpoints on birth contra!' 2 Varied: The U.S.
has a diverse population, embracing many
~ ethnic jJroups.
Syn. I different, various. 2 heterogeneous.
Ant. 1 similar. 2 homogeneous.
~ di·ver·siol1 (di·vur'zhen) n.
1 Entertainment that draws the mind
~ away from work or worry; The movie was a
doc·ile (dos',)1) adj.
Easy to teach. train, or manage: (1 chilli as
docile as a lamb.---do.dl.j.(y (do·sil'a·tel 11.
Spelling lip: Hemcmber to write a c in this
word, but pronounce it as an s.
Syn. obedient, submissive, compliant.
Ant. willful, obstinate, intractable.
dock·et (dok'it) n., v.
n. 1 A court calendar of the cases still

pleasanl diversion. 2 A turning aside, as from

awaiting trial. 2 Any schedule or list of

~ a course: the diversion of his you/h/u! energy

into a safe c}w.nnel. 3 An attack or disturbance things to be done: a piece of business PHt on

the legislative docket.

meant to draw the enemy's attention away

~ from the principal point of open\tion.
Syn. I amusement, pastime. 2 deflection,
v. To enter in a docket: The case of Smith us.

Jones WaS docketed.

Syn. n. 1, 2 agenda. v. schedule.

~ divergence. 3 ruse, blind.

di·vest (di.vest' or dj·vo?st') v. doc· trine (dok'trin) n.
One or more principles or tends that are
~
1 To strip. as of clothes: He divested /timself taught and believed, as by a rPiigious or
of hi8 overcoat. 2 To deprive, as of ril,(hts or political group: the illlc/rine of IIw 'i'rinity;
po~sessions: To uvoicl confiict-uf-mlerest 1I1arxist doc/rinc.-doc'tri·ual adj.
~ charges, the political candidate divested him­
self of his stock in tlte company. Syn. theory, dogma, philosophy, t~achillg.
doll' (do! ur dOl) v.
~
div·j·dend (div'J·dend) II. To take olT, as clnihill~ or a hat; 11" (]oird
I A sum of money that is to be proportionally hi~ cap.
divided, as profits from a corporation to b(·
~
Syn. remove.

distributed among its stockholders. 2 An Ant. don.

individual share of such a sum: a quarterly

dividend on stock.
~ div·i·na·Hon (div'~·nil'tih~ll) n.
1 The art of foretelling the future or of dis­
"f% covering hidden things, as by reading omens
or using supernatural insight : Jeanne Dixon
~
is famed for her puwers of divination. 2 A
prophecy: a divination of the death of Caesar.
3 A successful or clever guess: her dil'illalion
~ of the trulh.
Syn. 1 augury, soothsaying. 2 prediction,
forecast. 3 surmise.
~
di·vine (di·vin') adj.; n.; v. di·vined, di·vin.ing
adj. 1 Of, like, from, or devoted to God:
divine wisdom. 2 So excellent as to seem
do~.ger.el (dog'dr-.ll or dog'dr·el) II.
'1 rivial, o"rUy writ!.e" Vel"", li is I,,,dry i.
nothing but doggerel.
dog.ma (dog'm8 or dog'md) n., dog.nlas or
dog.ma.Ia pl.
A religious or uther <toenille ollicially pro­
clahned us axi())natie" or u !Judy uf :,.)uch
du.. : trines! The im-UWCHiate CVilcep(ioil ii5 pari
of Calltolic dogma.
Ant. heresy, heterodoxy.
do·lor·ous (do'ldr'ds ur dol'8r'03) adj.
Mournful; sad; Ihe t/u/uru,," expn "io" vf u
basad hound.
Syn. melancholy, gloomy, woebegone.

heavenly: That perftIJne is divine. Ant. happy, cheerful, merry.

n. A clergyman or theologian: the Deal! of St.

dom·i·cile (dom';Hal or dom'd·sjl)
Paul's, and olher noted divines.
A person's dwe1lin~; home: lIis is
v. To find ou.t hidden or future things through
820 11I ail< Sireet.
~ divination or insight: Despite his evasions, Hlle

divined the tmth.

Syn. house, residence, abode.

Spelling lip: Divine, like religious, has two i's.
dom·i·Bllnt «iom',,-nant) adj.
di·vorce (di·yOrs') n.; v. di·vorced, di.vorc·jng
n. 1 The legal process by which a marriage is
dissol ved. 2 Any radical or complete separa­
tion: the divorce of sound and smse in her
poetry.
I Exercising the most authority; During Ihe
Depression. Franklin D. Roosevell waS the
dominantjiyure in the U.S. 2 Most noticeable:
The Empire Slate Building is the <luminallt
feature of the New Yurk sk·yline.
Spelling tip: Remember the i in this word.

585
 C!'!!!!I.
~
gomineering duel
Syn. predominant, paramount, controlling.
Anl.llubordinate, weak, unimportant.
jjom,·i.neer.ing (domJa·nirfing) adj.
Overbearing; tyrannical: Timid men ofien
have domineering wives.
Syn. bullying, strict, despotic, autocratic.
Ani. submissive, obedient, compliant, servile.
from whom all blessings flow"; or an ex­

pression of such praise used as the closing

words of a sermon: The minister pronounced

the doxology.

dregs (dregz) n.pl.

1 The sediment of liquids, especially of
beverages: the drcgs lcft in a glass of 'wine.
-­
CI!!!!!I.

t!l!!!!!!I.
@I!!!!!.

­
Don Juan (don wan') n. 2 The poorest or least desirable part: the
dregs of society.
. 1 A legendary Spanish nobleman and Syn. 2 scum, scrapings, rejecls. ~
seducer of women, who was the hero of
many poems, operas, plays, etc. 2 Any fickle droll (drOI) adj.
seducer: He daydreamed about being a Don
Jy.an. .
Syn. 2 philanderer, Casanova, I,othario,
Odd and amusing in a charming sort of way:
a droll man; a droll story.
Syn. comical, fantastical. ~
·
libertine.
do· nor (da'nar) n.
Ant. commonplace, ordinary, dull.
drom.e.dar.y (drom'a·der'e or drumJ,,·derJe)
~
·
One who gives: a blood donor.
Syn. contributor, giver, almsgiver.
Ant. recipient, taker.
n., drom·e·dar·ies pl.

The swift, one-humped Arabian camel.

drown (droun) v. ~
·
don't dant) contraction 1 To die or to kill by suffucation in waler or
Do not: Don't forget your appointment. other liquid: They drowned a short distance
from shore. 2 To become inundated or over­
~
dor·sal (dor'sal) adj. whelmed: drowning in self-pity.

Situated on or near, or pertaining to, the drudg·er·y (druj'ar·e) n. drudg·er·ies pI. ~

rear part of an animal or the human body: Hard and boring work: the drlH/gery of
the front fins and the dorsal fins.
Syn. back, posterior, tail.

scrubbing fioors. C!!!!!!.

Syn. toil, grind. •
Ani. front.

du.al (d(y)60·al) adj. Cl!!!!!.

dose (dos) n.
A specific quantity of medicine prescribed to
be taken at one time: a dose of cough syrup.
do·tage (do'tij) n.
Consisting of two things; duuble: The book

fills the dual need for education and for

entertainment.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse this word with
~
·
Feebleness of mind as a result of old age; duel.
senility. Syn. twofold, twin.

dote (dOt) v. dot·ed, dot·ing Ant. single.

To lavish love; to adore: He doted on his du·bi,oUB (d(y)50'beas) adj.

you ngest child. 1 Not sure' doubtful: Her husband was

Syn. love, cherish, treasure.

dubious about her need fur two mink coats. 2

Ani. hate, dislike, neglect, ignore.

Open to question or tu criticism: of dubious

dou·ble-en.ten·dre (d60·blillHiiil'dr J) n. quality.

A statement or phrase that can be inLer:, Syn. 1 skeptical, unconvinced. 2 questionable,

preted in. two ways with the less obvious debatable.

meaning often improper: the double-entendrcs Ant. 1 confident, positive. 2 indisputable,

of a nightclub entertainer. unassailable.

douche (d60sh) n.; v. douched. douch·ing
n. A jet of water or other fluid directed into
or onto some part of the body for medicinal
or cleansing purposes: The doctor prescribed
warm douches.
v. To administer a douche.
!loUgh·IY (dou'te) adj. dough.(j.er, dough·tl·est
Valiant; brave: Doughty Paul Bunyan wielded
his seven-foot ax.
Usage: This word is used chiefly in humorous
contexts.
Syn. bold. dauntless, fearless.
Ant. pusillanimous, craven, cowardly.
dour ( dJ6r or dour) adj.
Morose and grim; surly: The residents of the
dreary litt1e town were a dour lot.
Syn. forbidding, ill-tempered.
n. 1 That which is owed or appropriate: the
Ant. pleasant, agreeable, amiable.
due·at (dukJat) n.
Any of several gold or silver coins formerly
used in Europe and ranging in value from
about $2.34 to 83¢; especially, the Dutch or
Venetian gold coin.
due·tile (duk'tal or duk'tH) adj.
1 Moldable into many shapes, as certain
materials: Plastico are more ductile tlwn any
metal, even soft gold. 2 Easily influenced, as a •
person: an obedient, ductile child. ~
Syn. 1,2 pliable, malleable, plastic, yielding.
Ant. 1. 2 rigid, inelastic, unmalleable. ~
•
due (d(y)60) adj., n.
adj. Owing, expected, appropriate, or as­
~
•
cribable: the moneys due; a bus due at six
~
o'clock; with due appreciation; a delay due to
rain.

qox.ol.o.gy (dok·Bol'a·je) n., dox.ol·o.gies pI.

honor that is his due. 2 pl. Charge or fee: club
dues. ~
A hymn of praise to God, specifically du·el (d(y)60'ul) 1'.; v. du.clcd or du·cllcd,
applied to a stanza beginning, "l)raise God, du·el·lng or du.e1·ling ~
~
586

--.

~ du.et easel
~ n. I A prearranged combat between two eventful, momentous. 3 vigorous, high­

powered.

~
persons, usually fought with deadly weapons
and in the presence of witnesses or seconds. Ant. 1 static, inactive. 2 unimportant, Un­

2 By extension, any struggle: a duel of words. eventful. 3 impotent, powerless, weak.

~ v. To fight in a duel.
du·et ( d(y)60·et') n.
dy·nam.jcs (dl·num'iks) n.1)/.
I The branch of physics that treats of the
~ Musical composition for or performance by
two voices or instruments: The tellor and
motion of bodies and the effects of forces in
producing motion. 2 The forces producing
soprano sing a duet. or governing activity or movement of any
~ Syn. duo. kind: spiritttal dY7,amics.
Usage; This plural noun is construed as
duke (d(y)ook) n.

lit, 1 In England and some other European

singUlar and uses a singular verb.
countries, a nobleman having a heredItary
dy·na·mite (dI'na.,mlt) It.; v. dy.na.mil·ed, dy.
~
rank below that of a prince and above that
na·mit·jug
of a marquis. 2 A F~urojlean prince ruling
11.1 An explosive composed of nitroglycerin
over a duchy.
held in some absorbent substance. 2 Any­
~ du·1y (d(Yioo'le) adv.
Appropriately or to an adequate degree; lilly;
thing or anybody characterized by great
potential or effectiveness: Doris Day and
Rock Hudson 'vere <lyna'mile at Ihe box office.
~ thanks duly rendered.
Syn. suitably, llroperlr, adequately.
v. To charge, blow up, or shattt!T with ur as if
Ant. inapl)ropnately, Improperly.
with dynamite,~ dy'na·mifcr ll.
~ du·Q·de·num (d(y)oo'a·dll'nam or doo·od'a· dy.nas( (dl'nast or dj'nJ"tj Jt.

nam) n., du·o·de·na pI. A ruler, especially a hereditary one.

~ The part of the small intestine extending

from the stomach to the jejunum: in
dy·nus.(y (di'nas·te) 11., pI. dy·nas·tics
1 A group of rulers who belong to one family
~
digestiull, fuod passes through the stomach and and who succeed each other as rulers over a
then enlers the duodeJ/Um. long period of time. 2 The length of time
during which such a family is in power. 3 A
~
dupe (d(y)oop) v. duped, dup.ing; n.
group or family whose power or prominence

v. To trick; to deceIve deliberately: The cun

man t{sed rcalistic-Iooking .tock certificates to
~ dupe hi" victim".
n. One who is easily tricked: an unsuspecting
dupe.
~ du·pU·cai.e (d(y)oo'pla·kat v.; d(y)oo'pl<J·kit
dys·en·ler.y (dis'<ln-ter'e) n .
n., adj.) v. du'pli,cat·ed, du·pli.cat.ing; 11.,
.u~ adj.
v. To copy exactly or do a second time.
n. An exact copy: a duplicate of the memo.
~ adj. In pairs, or correspondinl' exactly to an
extends ov(;r a period of time as though
inlwrited £ruIn oHu gCll{:faLioH to the next: (1
political (tynasly.
A severe inflammation of the mucous mem­
brane of the large intestine, marked by the
passage of ulood grilJing puins, and
t ~onle
fever.
dys·pep·sia (dis·pep'glla or dis·pep'se·u) 11.

..

original: " duplicate key.-du pJi·ca'tor n. Difficult or painful digestion, usually

chronic,
~ Spelling lip: Use every vowel except an Q.
Syn. n. facsimile, replica, likeness.
~ du·plic·j·ty (d(y)oo·plis'a·te) n., dU·plic·j,ties E
pl. ear·nest (ur'nist) adj., n,
Tricky deceitfulness; double-dealing: Ihe con adj. Characterized by seriousll"'", sincel'ity,
• ~-*t man'" duplicity.
Syn. trickery, dishonesty, misrepresentation.
Ant. honesty, candor, good faith.
or determination: (Hi wnwsl pica for peace.
n. An assurance or token of something to

'.J!j come, as money paid in advance to bind a

du·ra·ble (d(y)iJor'",bel) adj. con tract. .- ear'nest·ly odv., ear'nest·ness 11.

Able to withstand det;ay or wear; hardy and Syn. adj, ardent, fervent, zealous.

~ lasting: Denim is a slrony, durable fabnc.

Syn. enduring, tough.
Ant. adj. frivolous, insincere.

Ant. fragile, fraiL earth·y (ur'thil) adj, earth·j.er, earlh·i.est

du·ress (d(y)oo·res' or d(y)oor'is) n.
Coercion or compUlsion by means of force or
threats: a confession e)'/rtwled untler clttress.
Syn. constraint, pressure.
1 Composed of or Buggesting the qualities
of earth: Ihe earthy flu""r of Bull'" wilt,,". 2 Hav­
ing qualities that pertain to the world: lIw
earthy ilialoOile in jl1"<'NC/iI-cla!l filII/B.
8yn.2 worldly, robust, lusty.

dY·llam·jc (dl·nam'ik) adj. Ant. 2 unworldly, spiritual, ethereal.

1 Of or having to do with physical force or e a·sel (,,'z<>1) u.

energy as the result of force. 2 Having to do
with or causing change or action: the most
dynamic perio(i ill our country's developmenl.
3 Characterized by energy or forcefulness: a
dynamic personalily.-,dy.nam'j.cal.ly adv.
Syn. 1 kmetic, active, propulsive. 2 active,
A folding fram" or tripod used to llllpport all
artist's canvas, a painting being displayed,
etc.
Etymllillgy: This word comes frqm the Dutch
ezel. which originally meant bea.t of burden
(as>!).

587
e~ullient
e·bul·lient (i·bul'yant) adj.
Bubbling over with enthusiasm or excite­
ment: the ebullient performance of Carol Chan­
ning.-e·bul'lien(·ly adv.
Syn. exuberant, high-spirited, vivacious.
An~. unenthusiastic, blase, ~ored.
ec·cen·tric (ek·sen'trik) adj., n.
adj. Differing greatly from conventional be­
havior, appearance, or opinions: The ec­
centric old man always wore his shoes to bed.
n. 1 A person or thing that behaves in an
A building or oiher structure, especially one
eccentric fashion. 2 A disk attached off center
that is large and impressive.
to a driving shaft and able to revolve freely
ed·j·ry (ed'a.fj) v. ed·i·fied, ed.j·fy.jng
within a ring or collar, used to change rotary
To instruct, benefit, or uplift, especially
motion into up-and-down motion.-ec·cen'­
spiritually or morally; The s'peaker enter­
.ri-cal.ly adv.
tained as well as edili(:d his audience.-ed'i·
Spelling tip: Watch the three c's.
fi·ca't1on n. . ~
131n. adj. strange, unorthodox, unusual.
Syn. teach, guide, direct, educate.
n. 1 crackpot, character.
Ant. adj. orthodox, conventional.
e·di·tion (i·dish'on) n.
ec·cle·si·as·ii.cal (i·kHi'ze·as'ti·kal) adj.
Of or having to do with the church; especially
as an organized and governing power. Also
ec·c1e'si·as'tic adj.-ec.c1e'si.as'ti.cal.ly adv.
ech·o (ek'O) n., echoes pL; v. ech.oed, ech·o·
Ing
n. The repetition of a sound by the reflection ed·u·cate (ej'Oo·kiit) v. ed.u·ca(·ed, "d·u·ca(·
~
of sound waves from an opposing surface.
•
v. 1 To repeat or send back sound by echo:
The walls echoed the shot. 2 To be repeated or
given back: His shouts echoed throuphout the
valley. 3 To repeat the words, opimons, etc.
of someone: to echo leaders of the past.
Spelling tip: Remember that the k sound ill
this word IS spelled eh and that the plural is
formed with ca, not just B.
e·c1air (a·kUr' or i·klar' or ii'kUir) n.
A small, oblong pastry shell filled with cus­
tard or whipped cream and usually iced with
chocolate.
ec·lec·tic (ek·lek'tik) adj.
Composed of elements selected from various
sources: an eclectic musical program.
Spelling tip: Remember that this word has
three e's, not three k's (it just sounds that
way).
ec.sta.sy (ek'sta·se) n., ec·sta·s1es pl.
A feeling of intense delight or great happi­
ness: the ecstas'Y of a young actress who re­
ceived rave opening-night notices.
Syn. rapture, bliss, exultation.
ec·stat·ic (ek'stat'ik) adj.
Filled with or exhibiting great joy or rap­
ture: the ecstatic bri<le.-ec.sta('I·cal.ly (ldv.
Syn. joyous, rapturous, sublime.
Ant. downcaat, depressed, apathetic.
ec·u·men·j·cal (ek'yil'6.men'j·kal) adj.
1 Belonging to, representing, or accepted by
the Chrislian church throughout the world:
an ecumenical council. 2 or, desiring, or pro­
moting worldwide Christian unity; an ecu­
menical movement.
ec·ze·rna (ek'sa.ma, eg'za·ma, or e~.ze'ma) n.
An inflammatory disease or the skill, marked
hy itehing, will-cry diachllrgc, IImj tho I1p­
pearance of red, scaly pimples.
588
effect
e·del·weiss (a'da!·vis) n.
A small, perennial herb growing chiefly in
the Alps, with white, woolly leaves that sug­
gest a flower.
ed·i·ble (ed'a·bal) adj., 1<'
adj. Suitable for eating: edible berT·ies.
n. Usually pI. Something that can be eaten;
a stockpile of emergency edibles.
ed·i·fiee (ed'i)·fis) n. ~
•
~
•
C!!!!.
•
•
~
1 The particular form in which a bool" maga­
zine, or other literary work is published: a
Ihree-volume edition. 2 The totul number of ~
copies of a publication issued at anyone
time and printed from the same plates; the ~
morninll "dilion. 3 A copy belonging to such
•
a printmg: a first edition.
ing
1 To teach or provide schooling for; to cdtl­
cate children ill private schouls. 2 To develop
or train taste, special ability, etc.: 10 educale
the eyes to appreciate lhe beauty of art.-ed'u·
ca'tion n., ed'u·ca'tion·al adj.
.
ee·rie (ir'e ur !l're) adj. "".ri·er, cc·ri·cs!
Causing a f"eling of fear and mystery: eerie
noises ill the deserled hOllse.-ce'ri.ly adv.,
ee'd·ness n.
Spelling lip: This word is also spelled eery.
Syn. weird, ghosUy, frightening.
er·race (i·las') v. cf·faced, eHac.jug
..
1 To rub out, as written characters: a tomb­
stone inscription effaced by time. 2 To destroy
or get rid of, as a memory. 3 1'0 make oneself
inconspicuous or insignificant: trying to ef­
face herself after making a disastrous social
blunder.
Syn. 1 erase, cancel, delete. 2 blot out, ob­
literate.
ef·fect (i·{ek!') n., v. .
n. I Something brought about by some cause
or action: Fire was one effect of the explosion.
2 The power or capacity to produce some
result: a statement of little effect. 3 The overall
reaction or impression made on the mind or
body by something seen, heard, eaten, etc.:
the effect of morphine; the effect (If (I <cork of art.
4 pI. Personal or movable goodB; uelongillgs.
v. To bring about or accomplish; /0 circet an
escape.
Usage.: E;ffcct as a verb should be eUl'ciully
distinguished from affect, meaning to act
upon or influence: Treatment effected an early
cure, but the long illness had affected his mind.
Syn. n. I result, consequence. 2 force, influ­
nn(~(!. 4. lHHiHt!tiHions, g{HHIH. P. r:H1JHt'1 t:l'(.'att',
produce, achieve.
•
~
~
~
~
~
effeminate elegiac
~
ef·fem·j·na!e (i·fem'a·nit) adj. usm,lly refers ~o a person's tendellCy to view

~ Having traits, qualities, or manneriHm. mure

usually found in a woman than in a man: He
things as they bear upon himself. Egotism

pOlnls to the practkn of talking or Wrilill~~

~ has ejJc,fftirwic volfe.

U;1't
ef.fem'j.nale·!y aLly.

c-C·fcln~i·Ju.I·(:Y 1'.,
aboliL ()lH!;wif exces:ihn'jy. J!J'(/Ot[:WI i!:l tlH:

n1ure conHnonl~! used of lilc;)(; two WUl.'u;:;, as

gyn. womanish, unmallly, feminine.

egoislI! is lWW largely a philosophical term,

~ Ant. masculine, virile, mannish.

Syn, 1 self-absorption, self-re;(ard.

Ant. 1 altruism, self-a\'lwgalioll, humility.

ef·fer·vesce (ef'ar.ves') v. ef·fer·vesced. cf·

~ Ccr,ycBc.ing
1 '1'0 give otf ur come furth in 1mbb\es: i)u(lu
{;-gO·ti::lIll (l:'g.)-liz'.HIl)
1 Exces6ive reference to om:sdf in speedl or
It.

U'(l/er effervesces. 2 To show enthusiasm or wriling; boastfulness; cOlleeil: Iler "uoti.'t"

~ lively spirits: childrcH cjfcfl'csciny at " birth­

day p(tTly.·~·ef'fcr.ves~cence n., d'Cer·

'Hlade hcl' tl borin~ CUHn'r;j(ltipfidli~r 2 Sul1i:.:lt­

nO;;;;';1 egoisrn.' '-c gu-Ust 11., (,;!go.Hsftk adj.

~ ycs'(:cnl adj.

Spelling lip: Rr,membcr that althuugh this

l),;age: ~",e \·;U1l8M.

Syn. 1 vanity, self-estceln, ndl-aggrandiw­
word has (wo 1'8 it has only one s,
lnelil.
~ gyn.l bubble, foam, froth, fizz.
Ant. 1 humility, self-etYacement, mod"sty.
e·grc·gious (i'gre'jds or i·gre'je·Cls) adj.
ef·fete (i·fel') adj. .
~ 1 Having lost strength. vitality, creativity.
etc,: ejfe/e nublemen unable 10 perform any use­
COllSpiclIoU31y had, as in t.asLe: or quality:
Pailill(J to fired VilC'::; gtlCS{;> is { y f ( UiO!l:i

ful fltTlelions in society. 2 Incapable of further suci,,! bluHticr.- e.gre'gious·ly " e·gre'­
~ production; barren. as an animal, plant, or gious·ness n.
the soil.~ef·Cete'\y adv., ef·fete'ness /l. Etymology: Egregiolls ('OWc'S hom the Latin
~ Syn. 1 worn out, exhau~ted> spent. 2 un­
fruitful, stcril~, unprolific.
words e (out) and gru, gTcgi, (herd" mean­
ing oul of (he herd or outstanding.
cf,fi.ca.cy (ef',,·k,,·se) 11. Syu, flagrant, gluring, intolerable, ,hocking.
~ Power to produce a desired or intended re­
sult: He q!<eslioned Ihe efficacy uf Ihe sc(luliL'c
ei,lhcr (e'thJl' ur j'lhJr) "cij., ,!,nui., wll'.
ac/j. lOne or tlw otl",r of l woo llo/d "lilier
~ prescribed by his dOelOT.
gyn. effectiveness, capabilily, value.
Iw.lid. 2 Olle aud Lht: oLlwr: They sat un either
side of him.

~ Olf·n·gy (cf'a·jii) n., ef·/l,gies pl. proH.'One or the other; ('Iw"",' eilher,
1 A likeness or representatIOn, especially, a conj. In one of two or mul'e cas"" lllsed before
sculptured portrait. 2 A crude image (,I a di~­ two or more alLernativvH joined by ur): Either

~ liked person: The eQuch was ,,,,,,yin effigy

afler the leam lost.
1 shull yu there ur Ill:; will {'Oil/I' here
Udll. Any rnore .so: fie CUfiiUd :3iuy (/dd 1 CaN­
nol eillter.
~ ef.fron!·er.)' (i·frull'tar~) .(,
Shameless or insolent boldness: The din,,'"
Usage: This word is 8in"ula!' and lake; a
singular vero in lonnal \\Tli ;llg: /:;'ithcr of
guest had the ejfron/cry /0 crilicize (wcryl/(iIlY
~
thnn is snilu{jir'. Ilovv'(!VP[', ill informal v;rillllg
abolll Ihl: Incal. or HjJe(:ch, a plural verb i;.; r:·I.~qW:HtIy used:
Syn. audacity, impudence, Herve, gall. Are either of you /(!(l"illU? When \I\(>l'e are two
~ cf·ful,genl (dul'jant) adj, subjects, one singulat· 'lIld Olle plural, the

.........

-:y
Shining brilliantly: lhe effulgent beauty of 1(('1
smile...· "f.ful'gent.iy ",Iv.
Syn. radiant, gluwing, du%;oUng.
verb agrL'e; with the nearer ,ubj"d: ElihU'
Ihe b<HN or hi,"1 tts:d,"(((Hf."') til'(' {f .'ilHl{u:iI,l,·, i.JU//f r
tlwu Of lIf(; lJUSii ia rt;;'[J0/H>il;l,c.
Spelliug tip: Note that tbis W()l'd is all (>~­
ef.fu·siYIl (i·fyoo'siv) adj.
Overflowing with sentiment or enthusiasm: ception to the i before t fule.
He was embarrassed by Irer effusive introdllc­
e·lan (a·lan') 11.
tion.·-ef.fu'sive.\y adv., ef·fu'sive.ness n.
El1thus'ia.srn or vigor as sh()\vn by a
Syn~ gU:1hing. profuse, exUberanL
nuuuter, beauly of POl'fUI'IlltLIH'I', 0]'
Ant. restrained, cold, reserved.
of iJnagiliutiuH: d !luU H!J 'i}ial!i~l oj ornd dwnn
e'foThe purl of a person's cunsciousness thut
(ego) tI.
a)l(l Iilan.
Syn. vivacity, z(;sl, livtdlm,,-,b.
is a ware of itself and also of its difference e·la,lion (i·lii'sild"! ,l,
iron} ttll! St-lVL'S of ot}J(;r:i uwl frtJln ttw oh­ gxaltt.:(l r(~nlill~, frotn :-:lH'\'i':;;, or Il'iulllp\!:
jects of iLlS thougllt alH1 uUwr ol)l.;raLiolls. his elutioll at JWl'iu;) biTIt l:lcit'('lld.
2 }o1gnti~m.
Syu. C'xhHaraliLHI. p}"clit'fl1l.'nl, joy, }lilppilH':->:-i,
)<~tYlllolo!lY: c''Jo ,'OllleS il'lllll the Latill w"I',1
Aut. (h'kei ion, dvprt·;..:.:-;intl, di:·;CHU!"q!,I'llWIli.
meaning 1.
el~e{;'ll1os.y·nar.y (df,)'mOH/}'Il(:r!{~ pf pl"e­
C·gO·iHUl ((/gC},i%'.HU) II, tH'r' (:) ltd).
,)-101):\ ',).
l
1 Great concern for one $ owu welfare and Of, having to du \yith, ur ;SUPIHJflet1 by
interests; selfishness: the elloism uf a person charIty: au dnnnUs.'!{fwry orgU'flli:tllion; a
who demands Ihe larllest shure for himself. 2 weul/ily 11/(111 f«(II«('(1 jor hid dt'i:iI("'IiWUlj
Self-conceit; egotism.~-e'go·ist 7(', e'go.
(left'pilit·s.
is'tic adj,
cl·c·gj·ac (d';)·ji'dk or i-H}'je,aln adj.
lJHug(!; J\ ILiwugh l!(loi<Hlt ulld {'(JtJlitHlt uru
1 Of or ha ViHg to 00 witb Ulvditati\'(: pm'!Wi
sometimes used interchangeably, elloism
or nnl.:1ical work~ uf hunentat.iun: elCyiHC

5SU

,ers6. 2 Expressing sorrow or regret, es­
Syn. gaunt, skinny, skeletal.
pecially for something in the past: elegiac
Ant. plump, fat, obese.
laments about one'8 los/, idyllic childhood.
e·man·ci·pate (i·man'sa·pAt) v. e.man·cj­
Syn. 2 nostalgic, poignant, melancholy.
pat·ed, e.man.cj.pat·!ng
Ant. 2 joyful, happy, jubilant.
To set free from slavery, oppression, or au­
e·Hc·it (His'it) v.
To draw out or bring forth: to elicit Ihe truth.
-e.Ue'i·ta'tlon n.
l1sage: Although they are pronounced alike,
elicit and illicit have completely different
meanings. Illicit is an adJeetive meaning
unlawful or not permWed: The district at­
torney elicited information about the illicit
selling of narcotic8.
Syn. extract, obtain, wrest, wring.
el·i.gi·ble (el'a·ja· bal) adj.
Qualified or suitable: eligible to vote; an eligible
young man.-el'i.gi·bil'i.ty n.
Syn. capable, fit, desirable.
e·lim·i·nate (Him'a·nat) v. e.lim.i·nat.ed,
e.Um.l.nat.ing
1 To get rid of; exclude: Some people must
eliminate salt from their diets. 2 To dIscard as
irrelevant; ignore: In Ids argument he elimi­
nated several major points. 3 To remove by de­
feating, as a eontestant, team, etc: Ilis second
defeat eliminated him from the tournament.­
e·lim'i·na'tion n.
Syn. 1 leave out, give up. 2 omit, overlook.
Ant. 1 add. 2 include.
ej·jip·sis (Hip'sis) 'II., el.lip.ses (Uip'sez) pI.
1 In grammar The omIssion of a word or
words necessary for the complete grammati­
cal construction of a sentence, but not re­
quired for the understanding of it. 2 The
marks (. .. or • 0 0) used to indicate such
omissions on a written or printed page.
e·lon.gate (i,long'gat) V. e·lon·gat.ed, e.lon.
gat.in~; adj.
V. To mcrease in length; stretch: Fiis face be­
em·broi·der.y (im,broi'dar.e) n" cm·broi.der.
came elongated when he heard the bad news.
ies pI.
adj, Drawn out; lengthened: A dachshund
1 Ornamental needlework, or the art of pro­
has short legs and an elongate body.-e'lou·
ducing such work: Every young lady should
ga'Lion n.
do embroidery. 2 Any elaborate ornamenta­
Syn. v. extend, lengthen. adj. long.
tion, as of facls or details: The ?Vitness 101<1
Ant. v. shorten, compress, adj. short.
what he had observed without embroideru.
e·ju·ci·date (i·liiO'sa,dAt)v. e.lu.cj.dat·ed, e·lu.
ci·dat.ing ,
em· broil (em·broil') v.
'1'0 make clear; explain: Pootnotes elucidale
To involve in dislurbances, conflicls, etc.:
the text.-e·lu'cj.da'tlon n.
'I'he whole neighborhoQ(/ became embroikd in
Syn. clarify, illuminate, make plain.
the dispute.-em.broil'ment n.
e·lude (i·\iiOd') V. e.lud.ed, e·!ud.ing
1 To avoid or escape from by trickery: The
fleeing thief eluded his pursuers. 2 '1'0 escape
the notice or understanding of: The meaning
of ilia remarks eluded me.
e·lu·sive (i·IOli'siv) adj.
• Tending to flee or avoid capture: Wild
rabbits are elusive creatures. 2 Hard to grasp,
perceive, or remember: an elu8ive fragrance.
-e·lu'sive.ly adv., e.!u'sive.ness n.
Syn. 2 intangible, shadowy, insubstantial.
e·ma·ci·a·ted ( i·mii'sh!Hi/tid) adj.
Very thin or· wasted away, as from illness or
poor nutrition: emaciated beggars in the streets
of Bombay,
590
..
emend
thority: to emancipate the prisoners of a can·
centration camp.-e.man'ci.pa'tion n.
Syn. release, liberate.
Ant. subjuga te, enslave.
em·bark (im·bark') v.
1 To put on or go aboard a ship before a
voyage: In Angust we embarked for South
Africa. 2 'fo begin a venture or undertaking:
At the age of sixty he embarked on a career as a
painter.-em'bar,ka'iion n.
Syn. 2 enter upon, start, launch. "
Ant. 1 land, arrive, disembark.
em·bar·rass (im·bar'as) v.
1 To make self-conscious and uncomfortable:
He was embarrassed by the compliment. 2 To
hinder, hamper: She was embarrassed by a
lack of funds.
Syn. 1 disconcert, discomfit. 2 impede.
em·be}'\ish (im·bel'ish) v.
1 To beautify by adding ornamental features;
decorate: to emb(;llish a room with fi;w paint­
ings. 2 To heighten the interest of II story by
adding extra or fanciful details: lie embel­
lished the description of the party b1l relating
antics of the guests.-em·bel'\ish.men! n.
Syn. 1 adorn, garnish. 2 enliven.
em·bez·zle (im·bez'al) V. em·bez·zled, em·
bez·zling
To take illegally for one's own use another
person's money, securities, ete.: It was dis­
covered that the bank clerk had embezzled thOl!­
sands of dollars.-em.bez'zle.ment, em·bez'·
zler n.
Syn. steal, appropriate.
Syn. 2 elaboration, embellishment.
Syn. implicate.
em·bry.o (em'bri.!-1i) n., em.bry.os pI.
1 In biology The earliest stage in the develop­
ment of a plant or animal before it has taken
on its distinctive form. In the human, the
developing child is an embryo for seven
weeks; after that and unlil birth il is called a
fetus. 2 Any early, undeveloped stage: His
plans for the future are still in embryo.
e·mend (i·mend') v.
'1'0 make corrections or changes, as in a liter­
ary work, especially after scholarly study:
In his novel about the Civil War, he emended
several chapters dealing with battle scenes.­
e.mcn.da·tion (e'men·da'shan) n.
Syn. revise, edit, rewrite.
...,

~
~
~ emeritus elldive
~ e·mer·i·tus (i·mer'a.tas) adj. em.pir·i.cal (em·pir'i·kel) adj.
~ Retired from active service, usually because
of age, but retained in an honorary position:
Based solely upon direct experience or ob­
servation: Empiriwl evidellce cOlljinned the
~
a professor emeritus. speed of light.-em·pir'i·cal-ly "dv.
e·met·ic (i·met'ik) adj., 11.
Syn. experiential, observational, inductive,
adj. Causing vomiting, as when deliberately
II poatenori.

~ given after a person has swallowed poison, a

foreign object, etc.

Ant. ded ueli ve, theoretical, a priori.

em.ploy.ee (im·ploi'e or em'ploi.e') 11.
3t21!!i!t 11. A subs lance that induces vomiting: A tea­
spoonful of mustard in warm waler is an ef­
A person who works for another for salary,
wages, or other return: a bakery with fit'e
fective emetie. employees.
~ em·i·grate (em'a·grat) v. em.i.grat·ed, em·i·

grat.ing

Spelling tip: E-mploye is an acceptable vari­

ant spelling.
~ To move from one country or one secti()ll ur
SY1l. worker; pillral help, personnel.
a country to settle in another: His anceslurs
",m·u·late (em'yo·lat) v. em.u·la(·ed, em·u·
emigratedfro1n Ireland before the Civil War.­
lat.iug ,
~ em'i.gra'tion, em'i.grant n.

Usage: To emigrate is to move from one's own

1 To try to equal or surpass: Emu/'lle the

achievements of your falher. 2 To rival: The
~
country in order to settle in another place.
repro</udion could lIot emulate ti", oriuiw/l
'1'0 immigrate is to come into a country of
painting.
which one is not a native in order to live
en·am·ored (in.am'drd) adj.

~ there permanently.
In love, especially in the phrase ella/llored

em·i·nen! (em'a·nant) adj. of, in love with: He has always been enamored

~ Esteemed or looked up to because of great

merit or high rank: Bernard Baruch was an
of Venice.

Syn. charmed, fascinated, infatuated.

eminent statesman.--~em'i.nent.ly adv.
~ Syn. outstanding, distinguished, prominent,

celebrated, illustrious.

en·dave (en'klav or lin'klav) n.

A territory completely or partially enclosed
within the territory of a nation to which it is
~ Ant. mediocre, worthless, infamous, notorious.

Usage: Eminent should not be confused

not politically subject. as the Vatican ill Italy.

with imminent, although their spellings and
en·co·mi,ulll (en-ko'me-vlll) 11., en·co.mi·ums
~ pronunciations are similar. Imminent means

about to happen, and is used especially of

or en·co.mi·a (en·kij'me·a) p/.

A formal expression of praise: polilical en­
comiums exchanged by members of the same
~
danger or catastrophe: We knew that a col­

lision with the oncoming truck was imminent.

party durina an dection year.
Syn. eulugy, panc!jyrie.

em·is·sar·y (em'a·ser'e) n., em·is-sar-j"" pl.

~ A person sent on a mission: an emissary has­
tily dispatched 10 the Middle East 10 at/crnpl 10
Ant. vilification, attack, disparagement.

en·com·pass (in·kum/pas) v.
~ arrange a cease-fire. To enclose or contain: The study "I/compasses
Syn. representative, agent, envoy. a )l-umber of different subjects.
Syn. include, rdate to, deal wilh.
~
e·mol·lient (i.mol'yant) adj., n.
adj. Soothing, especially to the skin: an emol­ cll·croach·men( (in.kr(jch'm~nt) n.
lient ointment. The act of stealthily intruding: 1'}w nation
#J!:; n. In medicine A softening or soothing me­
vigorously llrotestcd its neighbor's encroach­
uwnt upon lt8 lern!ory_
dicinal preparation.

Syn. adj. softening, relaxing, easing. n. salve,

Syn. inlru.siol1, lreBpa~:::;ill~, iuvut-Jiol1.
« -J!t unguent, ointment.
en·cy·c1o·pe·di·a (en·sl'kla.pe'de-,,) II.
em·pha·sis (em'fa.sis) n., em.pha·se" (em'­ A book or set of books with infOl'mation ar­
C.£j fa.sez.) pl. ranged alphabetically according to subject.
1 SpeCial significance or imparlance given Spelling tip: 'rhis word may als!) be spelled
encyclol'!Cd.u.
~
to something: The diplomatic note put great

~-
emphasis on Ihe choice of a neutrul meeting
place. 2 Stress given by voice or gesture: The
slrong emphasis he gave the u:ord "you" sug­
gested thai he mean! his remark sarcastically.
ern·pha.!>ize (~m'f()-si.) v. elll·pha.si:ted, ,,11\,
en·dear·ment (in·dir'mant) n.
A loving word, aet, etc.: He suspc"tcd thai her
enilearmellts were memi/ to dicltrad him from
/I,e ex/rm-agallc" of her slwppiny "pree.
!:iyn. blandishment, allurement, earcos.

pl1a·sl:t.lng en·deav·or (in·dev'"r) n., v.

To give emphasis to; stress: Iic emphasized n. An attempt or elIort to do or attain some..

that he was tssuing no ultimatums, 0111y mak­ thing: (in earnest endeavor to end the strike.

ing a suggestion. v. '1'0 try: The Red Cross ell(leavors to alleviate

em'phat.j·cal.ly (em·fat'i1de) adv. IIw SUffering of mankind.

WIth emphasis; strongly or forcefully: lie Syn. n. try, exertion, undertaldng.

emp/wticailll rejected the tdca that /Ie resigH.-­ v. attempt, underlllkll.

ern.pl1at'ic adj. en·dive ( en'drv or an'dev) n.
,.. Syn. firmly, vigorously, forcibly. An herb related to chicory, or it" leaves, u"ed
4nt. timidly, mildly, weakly. in a salad.

591

en·er.gize (en'ar·jiz.) v. en.er·glzed. en·er.giz.
Ing .
charming manner.
To give energy, force, or strength to: A big
Syn. charm, entrance, delight.
contribution energized plana to reconstruct the
Ant. put off, repel.
church.
en route (an root')
Syn. activate, invigorate, excite.
On the road; on the way: En route 10 Boston
Ant. impede, obstruct, retard, weaken.
he mel an old friend;we'll have lunch en route.
en·er·yate (en'ar.viU) v. en·er·vat-ed. en-er·
vat-Ing
To sap the strength or vitality of: The long
walk in the hot 8un enervated him.
Syn. enfeeble, weaken, drain.
Ant. energize, invigorate, strengthen.
en·sem·hle (an.sam'bal) n.
en..gen·der (in·jen'dar) v.
To give rise to; produce; The highhanded
methods of the captain engendered a sense of
insecurity in his men.
en·gross (in.gros') v.
, To occupy completely; absorb: I was 30 en­
grossed in a mystery story that I did not hear
the phone rillg.--en.gross'ing adj.
en·hance (in-hans') v. en·hanced, en.hane-ing
. To heighten or increase: His reputation was
greatly enhanced by the 3uccess of his new play.
Syn. strengthen, contribute to, improve.
Ant. diminish, Jessen, weaken.
e.nig.ma (i·nig'mu) n.
A baffling or ambiguous saying; also, any­
thing that puzzles or baffles: The Delphic
oracle spoke in enigmas; Teen-agers are
enigmas to many parenls.
en·ig·mal·jc (en'iK'mat'H<) (Jdj.
Puzzling 01' ballling: ller emymatic shrug W(($
impossible 10 understand.
Syn. ambiguous, inexplicable, mysterious.
. Ant. clear, obvious, understandable.
en.join (in.join') v.
1 To forbid or prohibit: The judye enjoined
him from operating a molar vehicle for three
months as punishment for speeding. 2 To
order authoritatively: The doctor enjoil1ed his
patients to slop smoking.
Syn. 2 command, direct.
en·mi,ty (en'ma·te) n., en·mi·ties pl.
Deep-seated unfriendliness or hostility: Al­
though the two candidates disagreed on many
iS8ue8, there was no enmity between Ihem.
Syn. antagonism, hatred, ill will.
Ant. affection, fondness, good will.
entree was roast beef and mashed potatoes.
en.nui (an'wll or an·wll') n.
Weary listlessness or discontent; boredom:
Retired people without outside interests may
suffer ennut.
Syn. weariness, indifference, lethargy.
prise or business.
Ant. enthusiasm, activity, interest.
e·nough (i-nuf') adj.
Adequate for any need: enough waler to last
through the drought.
SpeUing tip: Beware of the f sound of -ough:
rough, tough, cough.
Syn. sufficient, ample.
4nt. insufficient, inadequate.
en.rap.ture (in.rap'char) 11. en-rap·ture!!, en.
, rap·tuc.ing
To bring into a state of rapture or delight:
envelope
II e was enraptured by her warm smile ana
en·sconce (en·skons') v. en·sconced, en·sconc·
Ing
'fo settle or place snugly: The cat was happily
ensconced on the sofa.
! The parts of something viewed together as
a unit. 2 The entire cast of a play, ballet,
etc.; also, the cast's appearance together in a
particular scene.
en·sign (en'san; also en'sin for def. :2) n.
I In the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard, a com­
missioned officer of the lowest grade. 2 A r
flag or banner, especially a national standard
or naval flag.
en·tente (an·tant') 11 • ...
~
A mutual agreement: Representatives of the
tu;o nations finally reached an entente on the
disposition of the ~isputed territory.
.
en·thrall (irHlirill') v.
To keep spellbound; fascinate: 'j'he children
.
~
~
IVere enthralled by the puppet slw·1O.
Syn. charm, entrance, enrapture. ..
~
en·thu·si.asm (in-thoo'ze·az'am) n.
KCl'n intel'l'Ht in something: an "dive eH­
lilliHi".", fur 81'orl•.- cn·lhu'si.as'tic Ild.j_
.
Syn. zeal, ardor, fondness, devotion.
Ant. boredom, ennui, lethargy. .
~
en.tour·age (an'tOo,razh') n,
A group of followers or attelldan~s: The
candidate's entour(lge c"n~i$tcd of IttS vress
..
~
secretary, party lead.ers, several bodyglwrds, ~
flo
and a dozen reporters.
Syn. following, retinue. ~
en· trails (en'tralz) n.vl.
The intestines; bowels.
.
~
Syn. guts, innards.
en·tree (an'tra) n.
..
1 The act or privilege of entering: to gain
entree to au exclusive circle of l'rOmilwnt 1)eo­ •
pie. 2 The principal course of a meal: The
Spelling tip: This word may altio be written
without the accent: entree.
en·tre·pre·nel1r (an'tra·pra·mlr') n.
A person who starts and runs his own enter­
I
~
en.vel·op (in·vel'ap) v. en.vet·oped, en·vet.
op·ing
To enclose or cover, as by wrapping around:
The folds of the cloak enveloped him.
Etymology: See ENVELOPE_
Syn. encompass, surround, swathe.
Ant. uncover, expose.
en-ve·lope (en'va·lop or an'va·lop) n.
A paper case or wrapper for enclosing a letter,
or any enveloping cover or wrapper: He
placed the letter in the elioe/ope.
~

.--.

~
~ environ C(luivocate
~ Etymo!oI\Y: The words envelope and envelop Ant. excitability1 nervousne~:il agitation
~
J
both derive from the Old Frem::h word en­ passion.
veloper, which means "to wrap in.'~
e·ques·tri.an (i·kwes'tre·an) adj., 11.
~ en·vi·ron (in,vI'ran) v.
To extend around; encircle; surround: The
adj. 1 Pertaining to the riding of horses:
rodeo included a di"play oj eIJUI:~tri"n
suburbs environ the city. 2 Hepresenting a person on hon;;;l.mck; au
~ Syn_ ring, girdle, enclose, encompass. erlt<estrian statue.
n. A rider on horseback, especially a per­
en·vi·ron·nlent (in·vr'ran·mant or in·vi'"rn­
~ mant) n.
The aggregate of external circumstances,
former on horseback: The circus jeatured an
equeslrian who rode slan'/i',g up.

~
conditions, and things that afTeet an individ­
ual, organism, or group: the unstable environ­
ment of wartime London,
~ Syn. surroundings, milieu.
en·vi·rom; (in,vI'rvnz) tqJt.
~ A surrounding, outlying area, as around a
city; outskirts: The train passed through ihe
e·qui·lib.rj·um (e'kwu·lib're·um) n.
1 Any state of baJance or adjustment be­
tween opposing forc(;s: tire ·"""<lS1l nl"aiDri!tll!
between the two lIIUjur nation •. 2 A state of
balunce in the mind or kdingx: Ii" II'''B Ii()
longer dril.wH by cunjiidill!l j.lO;;J;:;;i(;ilB, bu.!
achieved a sort uf equilibriu Ill.
Syn. 2 stability, equanimity, calm.

environs and then entered the central city.

~ e·phem·er·al (i·fem'ar·,,\) adj.
Ant. 2 agitation, perturbation.

c.quille (e'kwln) adj., n.

Lasting hut a short time; transitory: Ephem­
~ eral summer flowers wilt a few hours afler
blooming.
udj. OC pert.aining to, ur }jlH~ a. horse: {IH
equine Bluble; a long, equine face.

1<. A hoI'S": The C(luiue beg a" /0 uullop.

~
Syn. fleeting, evanescent, short-liveri.
Ant. permanent, enduring, imperishable. e·quip (i·kwip') c. e·<luipped. ,,·quip.ping
1 To furnish, endow, or fit (Jut with whatever
~
ep·j·cure (ep'a·kyOor) n.
A person given to luxurious living and dis­ is needed for any purp""e 01' und,>rtaking.

criminating gratification of the sellses; es­
~ pecially. a fastidious devotee of good food
and drink: The French chef prepared a tncul
~
(lood enough fur an epicure.-·cep'i.cu.re'an adj.
Syn. gourmet, sybarite, gastronome.
ep·i·logue (cp'a.log or ep/a·log) n.
~ A short section· appended to a novel or poem,
or a short speech appended to a play, to give
eq·ui·ta.ble
2 To dress or attire: The king II'as ('(iuippeti in
regal robes.
Spelling tip: Note the double p ill equipped
andcfjuippi"(1 (but not in I'lluipuroi/l. Words
endlllg III a Single ('()nSOllant w,th the accent
on the Jast syllable. double the. Jir.al con­
sonant before a sullix beginning WILl! l1 vUln".
Syn. 1 outfit, rig. 2 array, garb, aceouler.
(ek'wJ·ta·bal) adj.

1t~ amplification or commentary.

Fair: an elluitable daisi,,/t.

e·pis·tle (i.pis'a!) n. 8yn. just, impartial, unbiased.

1 A letter, especially when long or formal:

~ the ambassador delivered his king's epistle.
2 (Usually capital E). One of the letters writ­
Ant. unfair, unjust, biased.

eq·ui·ly (ek'w.l·te) )1. CI!.ui.ties pI.

~ ten by an apostle of Christ, or a selection
from one of the apostles' letters read as part
of a religious servIce: 81. Paul's Epistle to tlie
= ..li% Romans.
Syn. 1 missive.
« . 2St ep·j·thet (ep'a·thet) n.
1 A deSCriptive word or phrase used with or
in place of the usual name of a person or
• . i'!S thing: In the phrase "ro~y-fingered dawn," Iile
term "rosy-fingered" i~ an epilhet. '1'1", lerm
~ "Lillle Father" used 10 be an epithet for tile
.\<'airness or impartiality, or something that
is fair or just: Ihe ell1<i/y oj an even divisiun oj
pr01)erty between lhe tZI'O SOItS.
8yn. justice, equitableness.
Ani. unfairness, injustice, discrimilHltion.
c.quiv./l.·lcn( (i·kwiv'"·l,,n!) adj., II.
adj. Equal in value, amount, force, eITect,
n10uning, etc.
1l. Sotnething l~quu.l in H0111e way to HOJnl~l,.hing
else: a dol/"r bill ur its equivalen/ in coins.'·-­
e.qnivJa,lcnce n.

~
Russian czar. 2 Loosely, any disparaging
name, especially for a person.
e·ph·o.llle (i·pit'a·me) n.
1 A person or thing that is a pc:rfcct example
~ of something: The works of PlaiD are an cpit­
ollie of logiral reasoning. 2 A condensed ac­
count of a theory, speech, etc.: un epitume of
the debate.
Syn. 2 synopsis, summary, pr6ds, ubstraet.
e·qua.nim·i.ty (ti/kw'l·nim/a·l!i ur ek'w,}­
.­ nim';)·lll) n.
Evenness of mind or temper; composure: He
accepted the bad news with equanimity.
Syn. calmness, equability.
Syn. adj. compamhle, similar, alike, parallel.
Ant. adj. different, ulll'l'lated.
e·quiv.o·cal (i·kwiv'J·kdl) odj.
Having fnOfe than olW pogbible iuterpn'ta­
lion; ambiguolls or indeterminale: "OJ;, "
tirfS$ you ~eu:c{l yuuri'idj" may be (tN. etJLril){)cal
com!'time,,/.
e·quiv.Q.cale (i·I{\viv',j·kllt) v. e·qlliv·o·t:at·ed.
e·quiv.o.(;ul,ing
To nse double llleunings in order tll mislead
ur decdve: The bigamist er[Uil'(JCutr't/ by re­
ferring to "my first wife" und letl'iny his bride
assume he meant a jormer wife.c-e.quiv'o,
ca'Uon n.

593
 etiquette
e·rad·i·cate (i.rad'a·kat) v. e.rad·j·cat·ed; comprehension: an esoteric treatise on nuclear
e.rad.j.cat.ing propulsion.
'1'0 destroy utterly; to wipe out: During the Syn. abstruse, arcane, recondite.

African civil war, a whole tribe was eradicated. Ant. exoteric, simple, comprehensible.

Syn. root out, extirpate, annihilate. es·pi·o·nage (es'pe.a·nij' or es'pe.e·nazh') n.

e·rode (i· rod') v. e.rod·ed, e.rod.ing
1 To wear away or wear down gradually by
constant friction: rocks eruded by the sea. 2 To
eat into; to corrode: The acid eroded the metal.
a To become worn down: Over the years, tlie
cliffs eroded.
Syn. 1 abrade, grind down.
er·rant (er'rant) adj.
1 Roving or wandering, especially in search
of adventure: a knight errant. 2 Straying from
the proper course of conduct: an errant son
who tried hard to reform.
Syn. 1 roaming, traveling. 2 wayward, erring.
er·rat·ic (i·rat'ik) adj.
Having no fixed course, or deviating from the
conventional, expected course; irregular,
eccentric, or both: He is so erratic that he may
wddenly decide to eat his dinner at midnight.
Syn. unpredictable, outlandish, odd.
Ant. regular, patterned, usual, conventional.
er·ro·ne·ous (a·ro'ne·as or e·rll'ne·as) adj.
i; e·s!i' for v.) n., v.
Wrong: the erroneous belief thai the world is
n. 1 A short composition presenting the
flat.
writer's ideas on a given topic: the essays of
Syn. mista~en, incorrect.
Addison and Steele. 2 An attempt: a crawling
Ant. right, correct, accurate.
child "bout to make his first essay at walking.
er,satz (er·zlits' or er'zlits) adj.
Substitute, and usually inferior: Biller ersatz
coffee was all we had during World War iI.
Ant. real, genuine.
Spying. especially the securing of one coun­
try's secret information by agents of another
country: Effective espionage require. skilled
spies.
~
eg·pou.sal (es.pou'zal) n. ,
1 Adoption or support, as of a cause: their
enthusiastic espousal of civil rights. 2 A n en­ ~
gagement: the espousal of his sisler to his
friend.-es·pouse' v.
•
Syn. I championing, advocacy, defense. 2 be­ ~
t
trothal.
eS'I)Tit de corps (es.pre' de kar') ~
Deep loyalty and enthusiastic devotion all
the part of members to their group and to ~
its goals: an enviable esprit de corps that united
the team against all challengers.
..
~
Etymology: Esprit de corps is a French phrase
and literally means corps spirit.
Syn. spirit, morale, solidarity.
..
es·say (es'a for n. def. 1; es'a or e·sa' Jar 11. def.
r
v. To attenlp.t or try: He essayed a comic little
~
dance step to reduce the tension in the waiting
roonL
,.
Usage: Do not confuse the verb ",,"uy with

assay, which means to analyze or test: to

~
er·u·dite (er'y6'6·dit) adj. assay an are to determine its gold content.
II'
Very learned; scholarly: an erudite professor. Syn. n. 1 theme, commentary. 2 trial, en­
~
Syn. cultured.
Ant. illiterate, unlettered.
deavor. v. undertake, venture.

cs·tu·ar.y (es'chOO·er'e) n., es·(u·ar.ics 1)1.

...
er·u·di·tion (er'y6'6·dish'an) n. ~
Great learning acquired by reading and
study: His erudition enabled him to write
I A wide mouth of a river where its current
meets the sea and is influenced by the tides. ...
Bcholarly articles on many different subjects.
2 An inlet or arm of the sea. ~
Syn. 2 bay, cove, fiord. r
cs·ca.padc (eslka.pad) n. etc. abbreviation
A brief incident of reckless behavio! or prank­ And so forth (et cetera). ~
ishly uncon.ventional behavior: After his Usage: Because the Latin phrase et cetera r
escapade, he res)lmed his conventional life. means and so forth, saying and etc. is repeti­ ~
Syn. spree, fling, adventure, Jark.

es·cape (a.skap') v. es·caped, es.cap.lng; n.

tious. When used to shorten a list, etc. should

follow at least two concrete examples: They
,..
v. 1 To get away, get loose, or break free: to award degrees in art, music, drama, etc. ~
escape from prison. 2 To get or slip a way
from, as by forgetfulness, evasion, or Inatten­
tion: His name escapes me. a To avoid: The
eth·i·cal (eth'j·kal) adj.
Conforming to certain standards of morality ~ "
spy escaped detection. 4 To leak out gradually:
Gas was escaping from the pipe.
or conduct: It is not ethical for a pl~b!ic servant
to take a bribe.
Syn. moral.
~
•
n. An act or means of escaping: Drinking was

~
Ant. unethical, immoral.

an escape for him.

eth·nic (eth'nik) adj,
Spelling tip: Watch the sc.
Of or belonging to a segment of mankind
es·chew (es·choo') v.
'fa shun, as something unworthy or InJuri­
united by heredity, culture, language, or
customs: a political candidate with a broad ~
ous: The minister told him to eschew going to
~
appeal to Negroes, ltalians, Puerto Ricans,
bara. Irish, and other ethnic groups.
SYil. avoid.
et·j·quette (et'a·ket) n.
Ant. embrace, seek out.

~s·o.ter·lc (es'a·ter'ik) adj.

The rules established by convelllion to
govern beha vior in polite society or in official
~
~
Understood by only iii. few specially instructed or professional life: Emily Post'sfarnous books
or initiated persons, or lying beyond ordinary on etiquette.

~
594
ed
..
~
~
•
~
.--,

......

~
~ Eucharist exceedingly
~
Eu·char.ist (y60'kil·rist) n. Byn. 1 disembowel, gut. 2 weaken, devituli".e.
~ 1 A Christian sacramellt in which bread and
wine are consecrated and partaken of in re~
Ant. 2 strengthen, toughen.
e·voke (i·yok') v. e.voked, e.vok.ing
~ membrance of the suffering and death of
Christ. 2 The consecrated bread and wine.
To call up or summon forth: The wriler vividly
evoked the memory of childhood s"",mers.
Etymology: Eucharist comes from a Latin
~
Byn. conjure up, invoke, arouse.
word meaning thanksgiving.
Syn. 1 Communion, Holy Communion. ev·o·lu·tion (ev'a·I60'shan) II.

~
eu·lo·gize (y60'ld·jiz) v. eu.lo.gized, eu·lo·
giz·ing
~
To prabe highly in a iormal way. as in a
public speech or written tribute: The bishop
eulogized the dead heroin an eloquent funeral
~ oralion.
Syn. extol, laud, acclaim, celebrate.
~
eu·lo·gy (y60'ld·je) n., eu.lo·gies pl.
A spoken or written riece of high praise,
especially when forma and delivered pub~
~ licly: a eulogy of the former President, de­
livered in the Stnate.-eu'lo.gis'tic adj.
Byn. encomium, pan12gyric, laudation.
~ eu·nuch (y60'nak) n.
A castrated man or youth, especially one
I!t!l!!av employed as an attendant in a harem or as
an Oriental palace chamberlain.
1 The gradual process of change from an
earlier or simpler form to a later, more ad­
vanced, or more complex form: the I eolutian
of a tadpole into a frog. 2 'fhe biologicallheory
that all existent forms of life are descended
from earlier forms through gradual changes
or abrupt mutations: Darwin's theory of
evolutioll.
ewe (yob)
A female
ex·ag·ger·ate (ig·zaj"Hat) v. cx·ag.ger.at.ed,
ex·ag.ger.at·ing
1 To represent Ol' look upon as greatcl' than
is reully the casu: Site tends (0 cxaggerate her
troubles. 2 To overstate things: Don't e:wg­
gerate. 3 To enlarge or heighten to an un­
na tural si"e or in tensity: She e:wygeraleH her
c"yes by U8iitO IHll..'W(lTU anti false ('yda;.;hc::;.-~

'Ist!et eu.phe·milSm (y60'fe·rniz'am) n.

A mild word or roundabout expression sub­
stituted for another that is felt to be blunt
ex.ut,(gcr.a'tion n.

Syn_ 1 overstate, magnify. 3 enhance.

~
ex·alt (ig·zolt') v.
or distasteful: "Pass away" is a euphemism 1 To glorify or praise: a psalm e:ralling the
for "die."-eu'phe.mis'tic adj. Lord. 2 To raise ill rank, honor, or esteem:
~ eu·pho.ni.ous (y60·fO'ne.as) adj.
Agreeable, pleasant, or sweet in sound: the
'1'lte (,1ueen e:calted Ida, 10 " high office. 3 To
fill with joy or rapture: They were exalted
euphonious speech of a Southern belle.-eu· by their vict()ry.·~ex·at.ta·tion (eg'z6\.ta'sh;)n)
~ pho·ny (y60/fa·ne) n.
Etymology: Euphonious goes back to Greek
n., ex·alt'ed adj.
Spelling lip: There is no z in emU. This word
roots: C!t- (good) + phOne (sound). Com,," from Latin roots: ex- (Ollt) + altus
~ Syn. melodious, mellifluous, duke!.
Ant. cacophonous, discordant, harsh.
(high).

Syn. 2 promote, elevate, uplift. 3 elate,

~ eu.re·ka (ymHe'ka) interj.

I have found it!
delight, enrapture.

Ant. 2 degrade. debase. :l depress, dishearten.

lhlage: Eureka is used OIB an exclamalion of cx.a.s·l)er.ah~ (ig''/.a~'Jld'rat) v. cX'~ls·})cr·at·cd,

triumph upon suddenly discovering or figur­ ex.ns.per·nl·ing

ing out something: "Eureka!" shouted the To annoy or irritate to the point of losing

inventor, "I've got iU" patience: Her cOlislant whining and complain­
eu·tha·na·t>i·a (y60'tha·na'zha) n. in!) finaHy exasperated fL'cryoHt.- ex.mlpcr·

The deliberate putting to death, in an easy, a/Lion n. .

painless way, of a person sulIering from an Syn. aggravate, infuriate, provoke, outrage.
Incurable and agonizing disease. Ant. please, soothe, mollify.
Syn. mercy killing. ex ca·the·dra (eks ka·the'dra) at/v., adj.
ev·j·dent (ev'a·dant) adj. adv. With the authority of one's oHicial posi­

----
OhvioUlI or apparent: lJecau81: /", diri"o/ mil,
it is evident that he is Hot interested.
Syn. clear, plain, unmistakable.
e<vince (i·vins') v. e·vinced, e·villc·jug
To show openly or clearly: 11el flui, for color
and form first evillced it""lf in grade-selwot
drawings.
tion: The JIt)JW Hjwh: ('J' caliwdrtl.
adj. 01lieial aod uutlHlrilaUvc: "" ex mU",·
dra proclamation,
Etymology: E.c cathedra is a Ladn phrase
that literally means from the chair.
Syn. ",Iv. alllliorilativl'ly, oili<:ially.
AnI. ad•. unolliciully, otT (Ill! reeonl.
Syn. display, manifest, reveal.
ex·ceed (ik·sed') v.
Ant. conceal, hide, camouflage.
1 To go beyond the limits of: DOlI't <,"'cccil the
e.vis.cer·ate (i·vis'il·rat) v. e.vis·cer·at·ed, speed limit. 2 '1'0 be greater thun: Tlwir mar­
e,vis·cer.at.ing yin of victory exceeded expectation". ex·teed'­
1 To take out the bowels or entrails of: to ing <ldj., adv.
eviscerale a chicken. 2 To remo ve the essential Syn. 1 overstep. 2 surpass, outstrip.
or vital part of: The gun-conirol bill was so Ant. 1 stay within. 2 full below.
e~iscerated by exceptions that it was practically ex·ceed·ing·ly (ik·se'ding.le) adv.

worthles8.-·e·vis'ccr·a'tion n. . Extremely: lle i; exceedingly angry.

-
--''4$
595

~

~xcenent
Syn. very, greatly, enormously.
so as to train or develop: Swimming exercises
Ant. slightlY, moderately.
the entire body. 2 To make use of: to exercise
ex·eel·lent (ek'sa·lent) adj.
Of the highest 3uality; extremely good: ex­
cellent work.-ex cel.lence n.
Syn. superior, first-rate, fine.
An~. poor, inferior, pad, worthless.
ex.cept (ik·sept') prep., 11., conj.
prep. But; Everyone agreed exce.p t Sue.
~. To leave 'out: The boss excepted John, a
lazy worker, when giving raises.
conj. Only: She could have come, except she
did not want to.-ex·cep'tion n.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse the verb except
with accept, which means to take.
Syn. v. exclude, omit. conj. but, however.
Ant. v. inclUde.
ex·cep·tion.al (ik·sep'shan·al) adj.
Out of the ordinary: The Medal of Honor
winner showed exceptional courage.-ex·cep'­
tion.al.ly adv.
Syn. remarkable, extraordinary, rare.
Ant. ordinary, normal, common.
ex·cerpt (ek'sl1rpt n., ik·sl1rpt' v.) n., v.
n. A passa~e selected from a book, article,
speech etc. and quoted separately: The
newspdper published excerpts from his spe~ch.
11. To select and quote a passage from a piece
of Writing: a collection of memorable quotations
excerpted from Shakespeare'a plays.
tlyn. n. extract, citation, quotation. v. cite,
cui!. extract.
~
ex· cess Ok-ses' or ek'ses) rI., adj.
n. 1 An amount above what is used, neces­
" ~
sary, or desirable: ~xplorer8 wei~hted down
with an excess of eqmpment. 2 GOing beyond
~
what is necessary: Avoid excess in all things.
adj. Over the necessary, desirable, or allotted
amount: Airlines charge for excess luggage.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse this word wilh
access which means right or chance of entry.
Syn. ~. 1 surplus, plethora. 2 overindulgence.
adj. surplus.
Ant. n. 1 shortage, deficiency. 2 temperance,
restraint. udj. insufficient.
ex.cru.ci.at.ing (iks·kroo'she·a'ting) adj.
.
Causing or mflicting intense pain: an ex­
cruciating toolhache.
Syn. agonizing, tormenting.
Ant. painless.
ex·em.pla.ry (ig.zem'plijr.e) adj.
J Serving as an example worthy of imitation:
exemplary conduct. 2 Serving as a warning:
exemplary punishment.
Syn. 1 commendable, model, laudable. 2 ad­
1 'fo dig up a corpse or other buned thing:
monitory.
Ant. 1 blameworthy, objectionable.
e~.e~.pli.fY (ig·zem'pla.fi) v. ex.em.pli·iied,
. h.em.pli.fy.ing
To show by example; illustrate: Lindbergh
exemplified t.he. young hero of the 19:eOs,-ex.
!m'plj.ji.ea'Uon fl.
~Yll; reptesent~' ~!UPody.
4lJ.er·cise (ek'sar·slz) l'. ex·cr·ciecl!. ex·cr·
~
• c:le.lng; n. .
f. i To subject to mental or physical drills,
596
.
exile
the right to !Jote. 3 'l'o perform exercises: He
exercises by jogging before breakfast.
n. 1 Activity of the body performed for train­
ing or physical conditioning: strenuous exer­
cises. 2 A putting into use, action, or practice:
an exercise of patience. 3 A lesson, problem,
etc. to train some particular skill; to play
exercises on the violin. 4 U sua!ly pI. A cere­
mony, program of speeches, etc.~ as at ,ll
graduatIon: COlnmencement exerCIseS.--ex­
er·cis'er n.
Spelling tip: Distinguish belween exercise
and exorcise which means to cast out an evil
spirit by pr~yers or magic words.
ex·hale (eks·bal') v. ex·haled, ex.hal.ing
1 To breathe out; Inhale and exhale. 2 To
give off or emanate, as II vapor or o,!or: 1'he
barn exhaled the odors of hay and ""Ik.-ex.
hal.a·tion (eks'ha·!a'shdn) n.
Syn. 2 emit, exude.
ex·haust (ig·z6st') v., n. ..
v. 1 To make extremely tired: The long jour­
ney exhausteel her. 2 To use up completely;
~
We have exhausted our foo(l supply. 3 To
II
empty a container of its contents; drain: to ~
exhaust a well of its water. 4 To study or de­
velop thoroughly or completely: After twelve
hours of conversalio" we have exhausted this
" ~
subject.
"
n. 1 'file escape of waste gases, as from an
engine; also, the gases or fumes lhat escape.
2 A pipe or other engine part through whICh
waste gases and fumes escape.
II
Syn. v. 1 weary, fatigne. wear out.
Ant. v. 1 refresh, invigorate, enliven.
ex·haus·tion ( ·zas'chan) n. II
1 Extreme fa : The soldiers suffered frO1/!
hunger anci e slion. 2 TllG con'~ili"n of ~
being completely used up.:. cxhatwlwn of a II
water supply. 3 The condItIOn of being de­
~
prived of valuable or useful elements: Crop II
rolation prevents soil exhausti01!'
~
Syn. 1 wearincs., ~iredness. famLIll'SS,
Ant. 1 vigor, verve, Iiveline"s.
ex·hU·a·rate (ig·zil'a·rat) v. ex·hH·a·rat·ed, ex· ~
hil·a·rat.ing . . III
To make buoyantly cheerlul or IIIvlgorated;
pep up: The young couple were c:rhilarated
over the birth of a son.-ex.hil'a.ra'tion 11., ~
Syn. gladden, delight, elate.
Ant. grieve, disappoint, depress.
ex·hume (ig·zyoom' or iks·hyoom') v. ex·
, ~
humed, cx·hum·ing .' ~
~
The coroner's office wos ordered to exlmme the
body of ihe supposed suicide. 2 '1'0 bring
~
something hiliden or uncertai!l to light: Re­
porters exl/ume,l some damagtng facts about
the candidate's past.-ex'hu·mu'tion n.
+
words: ex (out) humlls (earth).
~
Etymology: Exhume comes from two Latin
Syn. 1 disinter. 2 revelll, expo~e.
Ant. 1 bury. 2 hide, conceal.
ex·He (eg'zIl or ek'sil) v. cx·iled, ex·iI.ing; ?/.
w. To banish a person from his native land ~
~
•
ed
~
"
--r
.
~
~
~
~
~ exodus
~ or home and forbid him to return: He was
~ exiled for plot/ing against the governTl£enl.
n. 1 Separation from one's native country,
especially as a punishment: Napoleon's exile
~
to St. Flcll'lla. 2 A person who has been exiled:
Paris used 10 be full of lVilite Russian exiles.
~ 8yn. v. expatriate. n. 1 banishment, expatria­
tion. 2 expatriate.
~ ex·o·dus (t0k's,)·das) ll., ex·o·dus·es pI.
1 A going forth, as of many people, from a
• place or country: the summer exudus frum the
~ city 10 the mountains and the beaches. 2 (Capi­
tal E) The second book of the Old Testa­
~
ment, in whi~h the departure of Moses and
the Israelites from Egypt is described.
ex of·ft·d·Q (eks ,)·fish'e·o)
~ A Latin phrase meaning by virtue of or be­
cause of on<,'.'l oUlce or po~iLion: The Prr:ddeltt
~
is ex officio cUlllmander in chief of the arllled
services.
ex·on·er·ate (ig·zon',,·rat) v. ex·on·er·al·ed,
~ ex·on.er.al.lng
To free from blame or accusation: '1'he ac..
~ cU8ed 'W"3 exonerated from any cunncctiun u'ith
the crime.~--ex,on'er·a'tion n.) ex,on/er·u'~
Live adj.
~ 8yn. absolve, acquit, villdicate.
ex·or·bi·lant (ig·zor'b;,·tnnt) <ldj.
~ Going beyond usual or proper limits; ex­
cessive: cxorbitant taxes; exorbitcmt de1>wnd"
upon OH(,'8 lime Gild cnetgy.--·ex.or'bi-lance
~ n., eJ(.or'bl·lant,ly adv.
Syn. immoderate, high, gr<,ut.
~
Ant. ~('''nl, liltle, mode"t.
ex·or·cise (ek'sor·siz) v. ex·or·cised, ex·or·
cis·ing
'fu, 1 To cast aut an evil spirit by prayers or
incantations: to exorcise the devil. 2 To free
~
a peroon or place from an evil spirit.
ex·ot·ic (ig·zot'ik) adj., n.
adj. 1 Belonging by nature or origin to an­
~ other part of the world; not native: an exotic
plant. 2 Strangely different and fascinating:
~ an exotic custom; an exotic looman.
n. Something that is exutic.~ex,ol'i.caj.Jy
adv.
~ Ant. adj. 1 native, indigenous. 2 common­
place, ordinary, plain.
~ ex·pa·tri·ate (eks·pii'trii-iit V., eks·pa'treit n.J
v. ·ex.pa.lri.al·ed, ex.pa,lri.at.ing; n.
v. 1 To drive a person from his native land:
~ to expatriate political suspects. 2 To withdraw
oneself from one's native land to live else­
where: ~I any artists expatriute themselves to
Paris.
n. An expatriated person: For yeurs Heming­
way was an expairiate.~ex.pa'iri.a'iion n.
8yn. v. 1 exile, deport, banish. n. exile.
ex·pe·di·ent (ik·spil'diHmL) adj., n.
adi. 1 Serving to promote a deoired end: 1';./:·
amination by a doctor is expedient fur OW""
itlVolved in an auwmobile accident. 2 Prompted
by self·interest rather than by what is
proper; easy or selfish rather than right: It
was expedient to conceal his pa.•t from hi8 wife.
n. 1 Something.expedient; a means to an end:
11Ie expedient of cutting costs by giving inferior
exploit
sen'ice. 2 A means employed in an emergency:
the expedient of living on plants and berries
"vilen lost intlw·wildernes3.- ex.pe'di.cnt.ly atlv.
Syn. adj. 1 fitting. propel', d('sirable.
Ani. adj. 1 detrimental, incolTPct.
ex·pe·dile (ek'spJ·d,l) v. ex.pe.dit·cd, ex·pe·
dit.ing
To speed up the pl'oeess or lJl'ogre::l;;) of; fa­
cilitate: to expedite all "jI},li,:a/iulI for (l gov­
ernment jub.
Syn. quicken, hurry, further, advallce.
Aul. delay, bold up, procrastinate.
ex·pe·di·lious (ek'sjJo·ditih'os) "dj.
Marked by or done wiLh energy and
ciem:y: The hote! had cuurteuus and
lions service.-ex'pe,di'lious·ly adl'.
8yu. rapid, fast, prompt, quick, puneLual.
Ani. slow lncHlcienL.
1 lag~jllg_
ex·pe·ri·cnce (ik·tipir'e·.,ns) lI.; v. ex.pe·ri·
eneed, ex·pe.ri.enc·illg
n. 1 Actual parlicipalioll in or direct conLact
wit.h something: f;.eperi('nce in biUdlii'tiS. 2 All
activity or oeeurrene(~ in wbich hal:) par­
ticipated: Flying fur the first tilllV
e:.rperie,lcL 3 Knowl­
cXtJerie}lCt'; un inlcTf8ling
,{uile U)I
edge or skill del'ived from doilt;; ~umeLhing:
This job requir .., s('vDral years of e'cl'crinlce.
Ii. (1"0 huve an expericnee of: to LI:l}('ri~',wc war.
Syn. "IL 1 iuvolvml1i.!lil prat:tkl', 2 eVl'nl,
l
~pb;uJe, au venture, il<lpl)ening. 1'. ullderg;ol
me0l with.
ex·pe,ri·enced (ik·spir'e·011cli.j udj.
Having had 1ir<iL-hand in\'olvH1Wlll or 1"18­
Bt!s;')ing al>iliti{,tl dt'Vl:iOPI'd hy US!' or IJi'ilctit:\;:
un CIJhTinlced ~;ulciit:r,~ Uil rxpcricl/(nL piani\)l.
ex·per.j.meul (iJ\.sper'v,m0nL 11., ik·sper'i)­
ment v.) II., L
n. A test or trial earri"d out lIllder certain
condition!:> ill order to find out sonwthing or
to put a theory into pructi;;": u" ","perimellt
-in cheillidlry.
v. To make experiment~:
yuille" pigs to find a new vaCcine.
to uperimelll with
ex·pi·ate (ek'clIJjHil) v. "x·lli·al·cu, t:x·pi·a!.ing
'1'0 make atnends for, as Ull unease, failure,
sin, etc.-ex!pi.a'Lioll n.
Syn. atune for, do penance fur, absolve.
ex.pi·ra·tioll (ek'sp<l.rii'sh.mJ II.
I Completiull or rUllning out of Bonwthing:
Ihe expiration of u lease. 2 'I'll(; aet of breath­
ing out air from the lungs.
Syn. ] termination. condu,iull, end, finish.
2 ex hala tion.
Ani. 1 beginning, oLan, COmtllellcelllelll, iniLi­
ation. 2 in'piratiun, Lwathing ill.
ex·plall·a.to·ry (ek·splan'<l.tUr'eJ "<ij.
Clarifying;, interpretive. or justifying;: C,'­
pl,,;wlori/ fuul;wleiJ for diJjlc,,11 terms.
Sllclling lip; Put all " Oll eit.het· ~ide or the II.
eX'llloil (t:k.'pioit II .• ik·~pl"it· v.J " .. ".
JL A deed or act, especially oile tbaL is heroic
or daring: the e.eplails uf Daniel ];""110.
v. 1 T() use unfairly or meanly for one's own
advantage: sfwpkecpcrs in the slums who ex­
ploit the poor. 2 To put to practical HHU: io
exploil walerpower.
8yn. n. feat, adventure. v. 2 utilize,
597

~x.ploi4a·tion (eks'ploi-ta'shan) n.
I I The act of using or utilizing something: the
exploitation oj natural resources. 2 The using
of someone or something for purely selfish
ends: the exploitation of tenant farmers by
landlords.
Srn•• utilization.
~x.po.nent (ik·spo'n<lnt; also ek'spo·n<lnt Jor
def.3) n.
l A person or thing that explains or ex­
pounds: an exponent oj modern music. 2 A
person or thing that represents or symbolizes
something: Byron was the eXI'0l!ent oj ro­
mantic poetry. 11 In mathematics, a symbol
written above and to the right of another
symbol to indicate to what power the latter
is to be taken: 2 is the exponent in ..4,2.
Syn. 1 explainer, interpreter, expounder. 2
symbol, exemplifier.
ex.po.si·tion (eks'pv·zish'an) n.
1 A public display or show; especially, a
large exhibition of arts, products, etc.: the
.panama-Pacific International Exposition.
2 A detailed presentation of a process, idea,
work, etc.: an exposition oj the principles of
the stea'i/! engine.
Syn. 1 exhibit, fair . .2 explanation, elucida­
tion.
ex·punge (ikspunj') v. ex.punged, ex,pung·ing
•
To strike out something written; delete;
erase: to expunge a word frolll a B"ntence.
-1lx.pung'er n.
~
ex·pur.gate (eks'par·giit) v. ex.pur.gat·ed, ex·
~
pur.gat.lng
~
1 'fo take out obscene or otherwise objection­
able material from: Cen80rs expurgated the
novel. 2 To remove or omit objectionable
•
~
words, line&, etc.: to reprint a book aiter ex­
purgating several chapters.-ex'pur.ga'tion,
ex'pur.ga'tor n.
ex· qui· site (eks'kwi·zit or ik·skwiz'it) adj.
l Showing great care and delicacy of crafts­
manship: an exquisite lace tablecloth. 2 Very
beautiful: exquisite gardens. 11 Extremely
refined; fastidious: exquisite taste. 4 Intensely
keen or acute: exquisite pleasure.-ex'qul.
site·ly adv., ex'quJ·sUe.ness n.
Syn.2 lovely, magnificent. " sharp.
Ant. 4 dull, slight. .
ex·tant (ek'stant or ik·stant') adj,
Still existing; not lost or destroyed: the extant
firslfoli08 of Shakespeare's plal/8.
Syn. surviving, existent,
ex·tem·po·ra·ne,ou8 (ik·stem'pa·ra'ne·as) adj.
Spoken. performed. Of c<!mposed with little
or no advance preparatIOn: an extempora­
neous speech.-ex4ern'po.ra'ne.ous.!y adv.,
ex.tem'po.ra'ne.ous.ness n.
Srn. impromptu, improvised, offhand.
Ant. prepared, planned.
ex-ten·sion (ik·sten'shan) n.
1 The act of opening or stretching to full
length: the arm ex/ension necessary to swim
the Australian crawl. 2 That which extends
something. 11 An agreement by which a credi­
tor allows a debtor further time in which to
pay a debt: an extension 0/ thirty days. .
exuberant
ex.fen·u.a·ting (ik·sten'yoi).i('ting) adj.
Serving to excuse or lessen guilt, especially
in a crime: Ihe extenuating circumstances thai
surrounded the n!urder.
ex·tol Ok·stol' or ik·stol') v. ex·tolled, ex.tol·
ling
To praise in the highest terms: to extol lhe
virtues of your children.-ex.tol'ler, ex.tol'­
ment or ex.toll'ment n.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled e:tloll,
Syn. exalt, glorify.
Ant. disparage, condemn, discredit.
ex·tra·dite (eks'tra·dlt) v. ex·tra·dU·ed. ex·
tra·dit·ing
1 To deliver a suspect, prisoner, 01' fugitive
to the authority of some other state, country.
etc.: Britain will extradite the suspected as­
sassitl to the U.S. 2 To effect the return of a
suspect, fugitive, etc., from another state or
country; New Jersey extradited the murdere)'
•
from lYfassachuseUs.-ex.tra·di·tion (eks'tra·
dish'an) n.
•
ex.traor·di·nar·y (ik·stror'da·ncl"e ur eks'­
tm·Or'da·nere) adj. ~
t Far exceeding the ordinary or usual: an
•
extraordinary lalent. 2 Employed for a spe­
cial purpose or on an exceptional occasion: ~
adv.
an envoy extraordinary.~ex.Lraor'di.nar'i,ly
~
Spelling Up: J..:xlra + ordinary, as in the
.
•
second pronunciation. Note, however. that
the first pronunciation is more common. The
second is used most often with the second
meaning of the word.
Syn. 1 remarkahl", unu~ual, Hurprising, ex­
ceptional. 2 speciaL
Ant. 1 commonplace, u~ual. ordinary, cus­
tomary.
•
ex·trav·a·gan·za (ik·strav'a·gan'zcl) n.
An elaborate musical or dramatic composi­,
tion, especially a lavish, spectacular theatri­
~
cal production. ~
ex·treme·)y (ik·strem'le) adv.
tious driver.
•
Much more than usually: an extremely ca'u­
~
Syn. exceedingly. excessively. •
ex·tri·eate (aks'trd·kat) v, ex·tri·cat·ed, ex· ~
,d.tat·lng
To free from something that entangles, • ~
hinders. or causes difficulties: 'I'he lion ex­
tricated ilself from the net.
Syn. disentangle, liberate, loose.
• ~
Ant. entangle, enmesh, entrap.
ex·tro·vert (eks'tra·vurt) n. •
A person whose interest is toward objects ~
~
and actions outside himself rather than to­
ward his own thoughts or feelings.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled ex­
travert.
Ant. introvert. ~
ex·u·ber·llnt (ig,zQo'bar·allt) adj.
~
I Full of vitality, high spirits, joy, etc.: ex­
uberant youth, 2 Characterized by abundance
foliage.-ex·u'ber.ant.ly adv.
~
or overabundance: the beauty of the exuberant
~
Syn. 1 joyful. enthusiastic. 2 lavish. ample.
luxuriant.
~
~ ,
.~
-c:;

.....

~
~ exude familiarity
~ ex·ude (ig·z(y)ood' or iks(y)ood') v. ex.ud.ed, often in opposition to, a larger group, to gain
~ ex·ud.ing
To discharge something through or as if
its own ends. 2 Strife or disagreement within
a group; Faction 'withill Ihe political party
through pores, gashes, etc.: sweat exuding
~
caused a loss of strenYlh at Ihe pulk· fae'­
from his face; " young mall who exuded con­ lion·al adj.

fidence. Syn. I clique, splinter purty, bloc, wing. 2

~ S),n. excrete, emit, give off. radiate. dissension, contention, discord, feud.

fae·to·turn ((ak·to'tam) n.
--!!!!!at f A person who has tasks or responsibilities of
(ab·ri·cate (fab'ra·kat) I'. Cab·ri·cat.ed, Cab·ri. all kinds.
8yn. handyman, jack-of.all-trades.
~ cat.ing
1 To make or manufacture, as by combining filii ae.eolll·pH (fe·l,t·kOil·plc')
A F'rench phrase meaning a thing done be·
parts: to fabricate a bridge. 2 To make up or
~ mvent, as a lie or story; He Jabricated a story
about heavy traffic to cover up for oversleeping.
yond recall or opposition; literally, an ac­
complished fact: Why ""k the committee

~
-Cab'ri·ca'tion n. -members to give their approval to a Jait aC­
Syn. I assemble, build, construct. 2 trump compli?
up, concoct, devise. fa·kir (fa·kir' or fa'ker) 11.
~ rab·u·lous (fab'y;).l;)s) adj.
I Passing the hmits of belief; a fabulous story
A Moslem or Hindu religious devotee, e~­
pecially a Mo"lem holy man who i" a heggar.
~ that made us gasp in astonishment. 2 Of, like,
or recorded in fables; the griffill, the unicorn,
fal·la·dolls (fa·Hi/shas) adj.
I Deceptive or misleading: fallacious docu­
and other fubulous beasts.-Cab'u·lous.l), adv. ments. 2 Containing or involving reasoning
~ Syn. I incredible, astounding, amazing.
2 mythical, imaginary, legendary.
contrary to logic; a fallacious conclusion.­
Cal.la'cious.ly adv., fal.la'cious·ness n.
~ Cae·et (fas'it) n.
lOne of the small plane surfaces cut upon
SYI1. I erroneous, false. 2 unfounded, illogical,
inconsistent.
a gem: Each facet of the emerald sparkled in Ant. I correct, truthful, factual. 2 logical,
~ the Bunlight. 2. One of a number of aspects of
a subject or person: the many facets of Ids
consistent, sound.
fa!·la·cy (fal'a·se) 11., fal·la.des pI.
~ personality.
S),n. 2 side, phase.
I An erroneous or misleading notion; tlte ful­
lacy that money brings happiness. 2 Any rea­
fa·ce·tious (fa·se'sh;,s) udj. soning, argument, etc., contrary to the rules
~ Given to or marked by humor, espuei"lIy
humor that is flippant or ill-timed; a fucetiou"
of logic.
fal·li·ble (fal'a·b<>l) adj.
~
young hippie.-Ca.ce'!ious·l)' adv., fa·ee'· Liable to err, to be misled. or to be wrong:
tious'l1ess rio Humans are fallible.~-fal'li.bil'i.ty n., fal'­
Syn. flippant, friVOlous, tongue-in-cheek. li.blyadv.
~ fae·ne (fas'(a)l) udj.
1 Requiring little effort; easily achieved or
ral·low (fal'o) adj., )I.
adj. Left unseeded after being plowed: u
~
performed: a facile victory. 2 Showing so little falla w field.
expenditure of effort as to be superficial: a n. Land left ullseeded after plowing so as to
facile solution to a difficult problem. 3 Ready
=1!:; or quick in performance: a lacile speaker.-­ make it more fertile.
rac'!1e.ly adv., Cac'ile.n8ss n. {a·mil·iar (fa·mil'yar) adj., n.
uilj. 1 Having a thorough knowledge, as
~ ra·dl·i·tate (fa·sil'a·tat) v. Ca.eil·j·tat·ed. lao
cil.i.tat.ing
through study or experience: familiur with
electronic »tuBic. 2 \Vell-known because often
To make easier or more convenient; to facili­

--*=t tate the operation of u large corporation by the

U8e' of computers.-fll.·cil'l·ta'tion n ..

seen, heard, etc.; Snow is 11 Jamiliar sight in

~
Syn. expedite, assist, smooth.
Ant. hinder, complicate, handicap.
Al".ka. a l"ricndly, BOn)eUnwB overly or im­
properly so: to be on Jumiliar lenus.
n. 1 A friend or close associate. 2 A Bpirit

supposed to attend and serve a witch, usually

fa.cil·i.ty (fa·sll'a·te) n., fa.cif.i.ties pI. in animal form.--Ca.rnil'iar.ly adv.

I Ease or skill in performance or action: Syn. adj. I informed, aware. conversant. 2

facility oJ Movement. 2 U.ually 1)1. A )JUilding, frequent, UCClH)Locnod. 3 inlinw.t.e, duoe,

room, area, equipment, etc., that makes an impudent. n. I pal, confidant.

action oj' operation easier or serves a special Ani. adj. I unfamiliar, uninformed, unaware.

purpose: " lmivcrsity leith excellellt facilities 2 infrequent, unaccustomed.

for 8cientific research.

... 8yn. I qUlCknu~., rUlulilwBB, dextcrity, adroit­
ness.
fa.mij.j·lIr·i·!y (f,,·mWi:j·ur',,(i:! ",. r"'lllil'yar'­
a·t!!) n., Ca.mll·l·ar·j·tiC!l pl .
~ fllC·sim·i·le (fak·sim'a·le) n.
1 Thorough acquaintance: his jOllliliurity
with French slang. 2 Informality, friendliness,
An exact copy or reproduction; (I carbon copy

--

".
or impertinent intimacy: She found his
- 'l!!!!» ia a facsimile. familiarities to be offensive.
lac·Lion (fak'shan) n. Spelling tip; Put an i on either side 01 the
1 A group of people operating within, and Bingle I. .
~

~ 599
<......,

fanatic

fa·nat.ic (fa·nat'ik) n.
A person moved by exaggerated enthusiasm
or zeal to beliefs that go beyond the bounds
of reason; a speech that appealed to the prej1l­
feign

adj. Of, advocating, or pracLicing fascism:

a fascist state.
fas·lid·j·ous (fas·lid'e·as) adj.
Bard to please in matt(,rs of Laste: a fastidi­
-

~
I

I!!!!I.
~
dice of retiyiuu8 fanatica. ous diner.- fas·tid'i.ous,ly ",iii., fas·tid'i· '!!!!!!I.
Syn. zealot, extremist. ous·ness n. •
fa·nat·j·dsm (fa·nat'a·siz'am) n. Syn. refined, particular. ~
The spirit or conduct of a fanatic; beliefs or
actions that are not in accord with reason.
Ant. uncritical, easygoing.
fa·lal·ism (fat'(u)I·;z'am) n.
• e!!!!!.
flln·cj·fuJ (fan'gi·f~l) adj. . I The phiio"ophieui dodd"" lhat all thing"
f
1 Produced by or existing only in the imagi­ and events are predetermined un(l therefore
nation: fancif1l1 schemes. 2 Pleasantly odd in not alterable. 2 A disposition to accept every t!!'!!!I.
appearance: a fancif1il costume. 3 Indulging event or condition as being inevitable.
•
in imaginative ideas: a fanciful mind.­ fn·lher-in-law (fli'thJI'·in·!o') 11., fa·lhcrs-ill­ ~
fan'ci.ful.ly adv., fan'cHul·ness n.
Syn. 1 unreal, unsubstantial, imaginative,
law pI.
The fat.her of one's spouse.
,
I!!!!!!.
visionary. 2 quaint, strange, queer. 3 inven­
tive, whimsical, creative, romantic.
fal·u·ous (fach'60·as) adj.
Foolish or idiotic in a self-satisfied way: the .
fan·fare (fan'far') n.

1 A short, lively musical call or passa~e, as

fatitOus grins of Ihe audience in a burlesque

1I01l8e.-' fat'u.ous.!y ,HIli" fat'u.ous·ncss n. , ~
of trumpets. 2 Any display that is nOIsy or
Syn. silly, inane, vacant, stupid.
showy: BecQuse of security difficuUies, the
fau·na (W'nd) n. ~
President slipped into tile city with a minimum
The animals living within a given area or
of fanfare.
environment, or during a stated period.
Syn. 2 flourish, demonBtralion. faux pa:; (fo pa'), faux pas \fo paz') pI.
fan·tas·tic (fan·taB'tik) at/j. A French phrase that literally means a false
1 Odd, grotesque, or whimsical in appear­ step; a mistake or error, espeeiaHy a breach
lince, form, cOllstruclion, etc.; a fantastic of etiquette: He cummiUed a fmu pas at the
room. 2 Fanciful, capricioUS, or impUlsive, as dinner party by drinking from his fill gel' buwl.
ideas, moods, actions, etc.
Syn. 1 strange, unreal, bizarre. 2 romantic,
faze ([az) v. fazed, faz·ing ..
eccentric, erratic.
To bother. upset, or embarrasB: Their cat­ ~
calls did not faze him.
fan.ta.s)' (ian't·v·se) n., fan·la·sies pl.
I Unrestrained imagination; wild fancy; She
Etymology: Faze comes from the Old English
word /i!sian, to frighten.
8yn. worry, diH[urb, diHeuneerl, intimidate.
" ~
lired a life of fantasy. 2 A mental image or a
sequence of mental images, usually pleasant
in nature, often serving to fulfill a need not
Ant. encourage, embolden, reassure, calm.
fea·sj·ble (fe'za·bvl) adj.
" ~
gratified in the real world: In his fantasies he
always saw himself as a captain of indl<slry.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled
1 Capable of b!eing accomplished or put into
effect; liis utopian plans are nut feasible,
given the present cunditiuns. 2 Fairly probable;
" ~
phantasy.
far·ther (fiir'thar) comparative of far adv.,
a feasible explanation.
Syn. 1 practicable, possible, achievable, at­ " ~
adj.

adr. To or at a more advanced point in SI,aee,

or, less often, time; 1 shall walk no farther •.

tainable. 2 likely, reasonable.

Ant. 1 impracticable, unattainable. 2 un­
likely, improbable.
adj. 1 More distant or remote: the farther
fe·brile (fe'bral or feb'rd!) adj.
~"...
shore. 2 Additional; more.
I"everish; febrile delirium; the febrile, frantic ~
Usage: When referring to distance ill space,
pace of modem life. fI'
farther is preferred: We hal'e to drive ten miles

farther. When referring to time, degree, or

Syn. delirious, frclIyjed, hysterieal.

Ant. calm, cool.

~
quantity, flirt/wr is preferred: flu titer in the
Feb·ru·ar·y (feb'ro(),er'e or feb'yCi')'er'e) n. fI'
Ill/lire; gelling fllrlherinformatioll.
'I'he second month of the year. ~
fas·cism (fash'iz·am) II.
I A one-party system of government (or the
prillcipl,,~ ""'lind il) that is ltulo"raLi" or
Spelling lip: The Hccond month has two r'll.
fe·cund ([c'I'.HHI III' fd""Il'l) "dj.
Fruitful 0" ('!I·tile: II", Jr""illd molhr of twet",,;
"
~
dictatorial in nature, and under which the
governnlPllt ,,(rietir controls illdu~lry aud
tlw Jec'"nd brain uf Bel/jail/in Prmlklin.--­
fc·('un·di.ly (fi·lmll'd,,·tf·) II.

~
~
lahar Hud subordmales individualism by S),n. prolific, jlroduclive, crealive.

military aud police force and rigid censor­ Ant. slerile, barren, unproductive.

ship. 2 A ny kind of control that is autocratic feign (flin) v.

or dictatorial in nature.
fas.cist (fash'ist) 11., adj.
II. 1 An advocate of the principles of fascism.
2 A member of a party that ,advocates or
practices fascism. 3 A person who is ex­
tremely autocratic or dictatorial in nature.
600
~
To pretend: Tile child feigned ~lecJ! Iv foo! lier
molher.
Spelling til'; Remember i hefore /, execpt
after c, or when sounded as a as in neighbor ~
and weigh. '1'1", ci in feiyn is ""lIn<l,,([ as a.
SYll. sham, simulate, uissemb\e, eOllnterfdl. ~
~

.~
1
~

.....,
~

.---,

~ feigned fiance
~ feigned (rand) udj. or young: fertile soil; a fertile 'Woman. 2 Capa­
~ Imaginary, pretended, or meaut to deceive:
Hamlet's feigned madness.
ble of growth, development, or invention:
a fertile im"{Jination.-- fer·li!·i·ty (f"r·til',,·t!l)
Spelling tip: See FEIGN, and don't give up
n., fer'tiJ·iw v.
~ the silent g.

Syn. sham, false, counterfeit, make-believe.

fer. vent (fur'vanl) adj.

Ypry e~lf!lt'-~t <~nd intt:l1~t"; <':,/I:ili:: j'~-';'~'i:
~ Ant. gellUill~, real, true, authentic.

feint (fant) n., v.

(I t\~Ndidd!t' S j,r!', lit ;:.n~ppl!rt~r~.
II.
il'r ''''ll'~~,)'

~
n. 1 An apparent or pretended blow or at­ Etymolugy: Pen'elll, fervid, and fCfI'or come
tack meant to divert attention from an from the Latin word fervere, to boil, and
attack to be made elsewhere: a skillful feint imply the heat of strong feelings that are
~ in fencing. 2 A deceptive appearance or
movement: to make a feint of withdrawing in
deeply stirred.
SYI!. ardent, fervid, impassioned, passionate.
order to regroup the forces.
~
fer,vid (fur'vid) (it/j.
v. To make a feint: The boxer 1<'' ' fust 011 his Highly impassioned; II fen'id plea fur Jtclp.­
feet and good atlwrrying and feintillg. fer'vid·ly n.
~ Spelling tip: The ei in feint is sounded as a,
a8 in neighbor and weigh. See f·EIGN.
Etymology: See FgltVB~I'!'.
Usagc: Fervid is an intensification of fef!'cl/I.
Syn. n. 1 diversion. 2 prc;tense, show, ruse, Syn. vehement, fiery, passionate, zealous.
~ trick, stratagem.
fe·lic·i·tous ( fa·lis'a·tas) adj.
fer· vor (fur'vor) n.
Great earnestness; enthusiasm, or illtensity
~ Especially well chosen: a felicitous 1)itmHe
quoted by many reviewers.-·-fe.lic'i.(y II.
of feeling or exprestiton: (iH etwJl!lcli;;jl's jeTl/or
at a revival -1,lceli1iY,
Syn. apt, appropriate, pertinent, effective.
~
Etymology: See FEllVE;-;T.

Ant. unforluJlate, inept, awkward. Syn~ zeal, ardor) passioll; fervtncy.

fel·on (fel'an) II. Ant. coolness. indifference, impassivelless.

~ A perSOll who has committed a serious crime

such as muruer, rape, a"on, or burglary. for
fes·ler (fes'tar) v.
I To develop put>: All ulI.trcatf'd ::;urc or u/uHrHi
which the punishment is more severe than may fesler. 2 To be a constant source of
--.if:;
.. for Ii misdemeanor.-fe·lo·ni·ous (fa·jo/lle·as)
adj., fel'o·ny n.
smoldering rage, vexation, or irritation: Envy
of his brolher festercdwilliiil him .

.
~ fem·i·nine (fem'a·nin) adj.
Having to do with the female sex or with
~
what is like, typical 0[, or appropriate to
women: fClililline inluitioll,--fem'i·nin'i·ty n.
fct·id (fet'id) adj.
Having a foul odor, as of rut or decay: the
fetid staguaut ,raier.
Syn. stinking, rank, putrid, malotiorous.

fe'lUur (fe'mar) li . Ant. fragrant, ~weet, aromatic.

-~ The long leg bone extending from the pelvis fet·ish (fel'ish ur fe'tbh) n.
to the knee.·-fem'o·ral adj. 1 A natural object worshiped in some primi..
~
Syn. thighbone. live religions as 1I1l' uwelling place of a super­
fer·ment (fur'mant n., far·men!' v.) n., v. natural spirit and the Jlossessor of magic
n. 1 Fermentation, the gradual decomposi­
powers: Siolle$, teeth, u",/ canx:d bit, of !coud
~ tion of organic compounds induced by the

action of enzymes, yeast, bacteria, etc. 2

are SOIl/dillieS used us fetishes. 2 Anything to

which II person excessively or irrationally
.~ Any substance or agent producing such de­

composition: The enzyme zymase is u ferment.

devoted: Sill: u fvlis}, of deu Jlli>1<'So.

Syn. 1 talisman, amUlet, charm.
3 Excitemem or agitation: a mind in creative
fet·ter (fet'dr) n., v.
~ fermelli.

v. 1 '1'0 undergo fermentation or produce

11. 1 A chain or other bond put about the

ankles to restrain lnovpment: a j)risoncr in
~
fermentation in: apple cider tlw/ fenltents 'md
feller". 2 U"lnlly I'll/rat Anything c1wddllg
turns into vinegar. 2 To mak" or become men­
freedom of movemellt or expression: Ihe
tally or emotionally agit ated.--fer'mcn·
fel/ers of slavl'ry.
~
-

la'lion n.
v. To restrain with or as if wilh fetters: it

Usage: The verb ferment indicales activity

dic/uturship that fettered the pres.,.

within. The verb foment !loints to an out­

Syn. n. I shackle. 2 restraint. v. "hackie,

~ ward stirring up of discontent or discord:

chain, bind, confine, hobhle.

anarchi,ls worhng to foment a rebelliun. Ant. v. free, liberate, unchain.

Syn. n. 3 commotion, turmoil, resllesslwss. fe·tus (fc't,)s) 11., fe·tus·cs pI.

v. 1 work. 2 seethe.
In biology The unborn human Leing or ani­
rer.ret (fer'it) n., v.
mal carrieu in the uterus in the later stages
n. A small, weasellike !Jo!ecat, often tallled of its developmenl: espedally, the unborn
and used in hunting rats and rabbits. human child from the end of the second
v. To search out and uncover by carefui iu­ month until birth.-·fe'tal adj.
vestigation: Despite· the lack of clues, the de­ Spelling tip: 'rhis word is also spelled foetus.
tective managed to ferret 01.1 the facts. li·all·ce (fe'an·sa' or {e·an'sa) n.
Usage: Treat ferret out as a verb phrase. A man to whom a woman is engaged to be
fer·tile (CUr'tal) adj.

married.
-~ 1 Capable of bearing crops, vegetation, fruit, Syn. betrothed, intended.

601

fiancee
f1·an·cee (fE!'lin's!i' or IiHin's!i) n.
A woman to whom a man is engaged to be
married.
t!I!!!!!
Syn. betrothed, intended.
fi·as·co (fe·as'ko) n., fi.~s.coes or fi.as.cos pI.
A complete or humiliating failure: The nCw
Broadway play was a fiasco.
Syn. flop, bust, disaster.
Ant. success, winner, hit.
f1c·(i·tious (fik-tish'vs) adj.
~
Made up, rather than real: An alias is a
fictitious name.
~
Spelling tip: Fictitious has two Ii's.
Syn. invented, assumed, false, fake, phony.
Ant. real, genuine, actual, true.
~
fi.del·i·ty (fa·del',,·te or ii·del',He) n.
1 Faithfulness; loyalty: a husband's fidelity.
2 Truthfulness; accuracy: the fidelity of
sound reproduction on a recording.
8yn. 1 trustworthiness, constancy, devotion.
2 exactness, precision, reliability.
Ant. 1 disloyalty, infidelity. 2 inaccuracy,
!!!I!!
unreliability, distortion.
fi.du·ci.ar·y (fi·d60'she·er'e) n., adj.
n. One who is entrusted with property or
authority to be used for another's benefit, as
a trustee: A bank, acling as fiduciary. handled
C!'!!!!
(I,e trust funds set up for the heirs.
I
adj. Of or involving the kind of trust and
confidence placed in a trustee: the fiduciary
relalion bel ween a guardian and his ward.
fiend (fend) n.
1 An evil spirit: the fiends oj heLl. 2 An in­
tensely wicked or cruel person: The torturer
was a fiend. a An enthusiast or addict: a
bridge fiend; a dope ficnd.-·fiend'ish adj.,
fiend'ish.ly adv.
I!!!!!!!I
Syn. 1 devil, demon. 2 brute, savage, bar­
barian. a devotee, fanatic.
~
fierce (firs) adj. fiere·er, fiere.est
Violent, vehement, or intense: fierce warriors;
e!!!!!!!!!!!
a fierce argument; a fierce exp/osiUll.---fierce'ly
adv., fierce'ness n.
fig·ment (fig/mant) n.
An unreal invention of the mind: The dagger
in the air was a figment of his imagination.
Syn. fabrication, fiction, fancy.
Ant. fact, I:eality, actuality.
iiI·a·men! (fil/a·mant) n.
1 A fine thread, fiber, strand, or threadlike
structure: the filaments of a spider's web. 2
The slender wire in an electric bulb, which
produces light when an electric current is
passed through it in a vacuum.
IiIch (filch) v.
To steal slyly and in small amounts: to jile"
apples Jrom a fruit stand.
Syn. snitcn, swipe, pilfer, purloin.
iiI·i·al (fil/e·a!) adj.
Of or befitting a son or daughter: filial loy­
alty and devotion.
~
Etymology: Filial comes from filius, the
Latin word for son.
Syn. dutiful, respectful.
fil·i·bus·ter (fil'q·bus'tar) n" v.
n, 'The use of time-consuming l<Jgislative tac­
602
t;'!!!I
~
finite
l!!!!I
t/!!!!!!I
tics, especially long and irrelevant speeches,
to delay debate and prevent Jlassage of a bill:
A filibu$ter in the U.S. Senate stalled lile reform
legislation.
v. To block passage of legislation by long !..&
speeches and other delaying tuclles: 1'1,1'
Senator filibustered for a full t,ccnty-foltr
hours. t!!!!!!I!!I
n·na·le (fd·mll/e or f,,·na'le) n.
The last purt of a sequence or performance,
as the concluding section of a musical com­
position: til<' dazzling fiH"le oj a Broadway
musical, with the entire cast Oil .laye.
8yn. end, close, climax, conclusion.
Ant. opening, prelude, overture.
{j·nal·i,ty (fl·nal/,,·te) n., fi·nal.j·ties p!.
Conclusiwmess or decisiveness, or something ~
possessing these qualities: lle spoke wilh an
air of finality. ~
!i.nal,ly (fl/nGI·;:;) adv.
1 At or in the end: He finully won the girl.
2 Conclusively and decisively: The Supreme
Cuurl decided the issue finally.
Usage: Don't confuse finally with lindy: e!!!!!!
lIe filially cut Ids hair; tl finely ClIt diullwrHi.
"Finelytraineu" means very well trained.
"Finally trainbd" means trained at last.
Syn. 1 at last, in conclusion. 2 tlelinllively,
irrevocably. ~
AnI. 1 immediately, initially, first.
II·nance (fi·nans' or ii'nuns) n.; v. ii.nanced, ~
fi·nanc.;ng
n. 1 pI. Available funds, income, or revenue:
sound persona! finances. 2 Tile management '!!!!!
of money, income, or revenue: an approved
system of 11aliollal finance.
v. To s\ll'pl)1 or obtain tbe nece;;sary money
for: a uwrlYH!J(! loan to /ina.1tCe u honse.
Syn .. on. 1 re;:;our<:('s, assets.
lin·an·cier (fin'dl1·sir /) 11.
A financial expcrt, or a person engaged in
financial alTairs on a large scale.
Spelling lip: When writing the word Jimw­
cier, break the rule and }Jut i before e after c. t!!!I
Syn. banhr, broker, capitalist.
fi·nessc (f\·nes / ) n. 1t'!!I
1 Highly refined skill or technique: The pi­
anislw'o"tia/ecl the triclcy passuye with Jine3se,
2 Artful strategy ur tact: a skilled mediator e!!!
who handleillhe negotialions with finesse.
Syn. 1 adroitness, deftness, flair. 2 craft.
~
cunning, diplom:tcy.
Ant. 1 clumsiness, incompetence, itwptitude.
2 maladroitness, tactlessness. e"!!!
Un·ick·y (fin/i.kl!) adj.
~
Overly fastidious or fussy; exacting: fillie;';;,
about hfT appearHHcr.
Syn. particular) overnice) 'netjculvu~.
C!!'!
fin·is (fin'is or /i'nis) n., fin ·is·es pl.
The end; conclusion: Marriage murks ;'.,
finis of a man's carefree, bachelur eri2lo:
Syn. termination, finish, ending.
Ant. beginning, onset, start. ~
ti·nile (H'nit) adj.
Having bounds or limits; nol in:':. f!'!
C""!
I::!!
. -­ 11
fiord Horid
finite hUlIwn mind.-fi'nite·\y adv., fi'nite·
garden of flamboyant ftGwers.·~flall1.boy'ance
ness n.
n., fiam·boy/ant.ly adv.
Syn. measuraLle, terminaLle, restricted.
Syn. I overelaborate, ostentatious, florid,
Ant. measureless, unlimited, unbounded.
rococo. 2 showy, gorgeous, flaming.
fiord (fylirri or fyord) 11. Ant. 1 plain, simple, bare. 2 dull, dreary.
A long and narrow arm of the sea running be­ flange (ilanj) 11.; flanged, Ilang·ing
tween high rocky cliffs or bunks, especially n. 1 A projecting rim or collar on a wheel, de­
in Norway and Alaska. signed to keep it on a fixed track: the f/unge
Spelling tip: This Norwegian word may also on a buxcar whcel, 2 A similar I'rojeeting part
be spellud fjord. Notice that tne word is al­ of a beam, pipe, etc., ,lesigned to aid attach­
ways pronounced as one syllable. ment or to mcrea,e stiffness.
fis-cal (fis/kJI) 1Hij. v. To provide with a flunge; /0 flaNye u pipe.
I Of or having to do with the treasury or Haunt (/lont) v.
finances of a government. 2 Huving to do I To wave or flulter freely: bllnners flaan/i"y
with financial mallers in general: fi"enl ill tlrf' IJTf'('ZI'. 2 'To di~play in an iInpu(h-nt or
record~.;. hra%.(!11 nHlllll{~r: lit'- lUN's Iv Jta/utl !tis kJt(Jw[­
fis·sion (fish'8n) II.
edge of arl.-·- flaunt'er n., fiuunt'ing.ly adv.
. I The act of splitting or Lreaking apart: «
'lJsage: Plmwt and flout are fre4uently con­
fission of loyalties within a political paTty. fused, especially in the misuse of flaunt for
2 III biuloflY The division of a cell or organism flout. The wor<;! jlUlll means to eX!JrC>i~ scnrn
into new culls or organisms: 'The ameba r"­ or c(,ntempt for sorn<1thillg. Nole thl' ,liifer­
produces itself by fission. 3 [n physics The enee betweell the two words in thi" sentence;
breakdown of· the nucleus of a "wavy atom, Teen-ayers flallnt their yoathful indepcildeuce
leading to the formation of nuclei of lighter by flouting tile authority of their parents.
atoms with the release of great energy. lIay (tla) v.
Syn. 1 clea ving, parting, rupture, break. I To remove all or part oi the skin, hide, or
fis·sure (fish'ar) n.; v. lis·sured, fis.sur.ing bark: to flay a lion carcass. 2 '1'0 criticize
n. A narrow crevice or crack; afissHre in a rnc/e. harshIY:.l1is boss flayed him for laking long
v. To crack or split:' During the druuyhl, the
IUlleil hours. 3 To get money or goods byex­
parched earth became fissured.
tortion or swilldling; [0 fiuy gullible cu,,/omers.
Syn. n. split, cleft. v. cleave.
--fiay'er n.
Sy". 1 skin, strip. 2 scold, castigate, rebuke.
fis·tu·la (fis'chil6·la) n., lis.lu.las or fis.tu·lae 3 cheat, fleee".
(fis'chao.le) pI.
In medicine A duct or canal formed by the Iledg·ling (flej'ling) 11.
imperfect closing of a wound, abscess, He., 1 A young bird with enough feathers to
and leading to the outside of the body or irO!ll enable it to learn to fly, 2 A young inexperi­
one cavity or hollow organ to another. enced person; b(:ginner: "ine-year-ulcl fledg­
lings with Iheir Own baseball tcam.
ftac·cid (flak'sid or flas'ad) adj, Syn. 2 novice, tyro, apprentice, neophyte.
Lacking firmness or elasticity; limp or !labby: Ant. 2 expert, professional, old hand.
flaccid muscles; His leadership of the party is
ineffective and flaccid.--·flac'cid.ly adv., flae· flick (lIil<)n., v.
cid'j.ty or fiac/dd.ness n.
n. I A quick, light, snapping lllOvernent or
Syn. weak, lax, drooping, incompetent.
blow: the flick of a horse's toil. 2 A slight,
Ant. firm, effective, strong.
crackling sound made by such a movement
Or Llow: Ihe flick of " whip.
fiag·eJ.late ~flaj'a·lat) v., flag·cJ.lat.ed, flag.!!l. v. 1 To cau:;e to move; or snap with a 'luick,
lat.ing; ad). light movement: flicking a puwdt:r pltff "II
v. To whip or flog: Some members of religious
OVer her face. 2 '1'0 strike and remove with a
orders fioge/illte themseil.e. as II form of disci­
quick, light muvement: to flick crumbs from
pline.
a /abledath.
adj, III biology Shaped like a whip or lashlike
flip.pan.cy (iHp'dn·se) 11., flip.pan·dcs pl.
part, as of a protozuan.- flag'ei.la'tion n.
I A lack of respect or seriousness: trcating
Syn. v. beat, scourge.

his religions background with flippancy. 2 An

fia.grant (fla'gr<lnt) adj.
Openly disgraceful; shockingly bad: a fla­
grant breaking of lite lilw . .. ·fla'granee, Ila'­
gran.cy n.; flll'grant.l)' adv.
Syn. I ineveren(,c, levity, cheuk, pertness,
Syn~ glaring, gross, nOlorious. hL·inous! rank.
impUdence, impNtillenee.
Ant. mild. slight, venial.
HOIl (110) n.
flair (flaT) n.
1 A talent or natural aptitude: a flair fur
acting. 2 Instinctive perceptiveness; dis­
cernment.
flam·boy,ant Wam.boi'unt) adj.
I Extravagantly ornate; showy: Flamboyant
hllir styles prevailed during the reign of LouiB
XIV. 2 Brilliant in color; resplendent: a
impertinent or frivolouo act or remark; the
unpardonable flippancy of thlllll/,illg ol/e's
nose, flip/pant ad;i., fli})'punt·ly adt"
A large, comparatively level Held of lluating
lee on a sea or other LOlly of water; ulso, a
detached section of such a field: Pular OWl'S
Me often seen on ict j/oes.
ilor,id (ftllr'id or !lol";d) (Tltj.
I Having a ruddy color; flushed; (/ large,
stoul man ,"ilit 11 ftorid face. 2 Ornate, es­
peciully to un excessi vc degree: prose written

603

flotilla
in a wordy and florid style.-fior'id.ly adv.;
flor'id.nesB, flo.rid.j.ty (tla·rid'a·te) n.
Syn. 1 high-colored, rubicund, red. 2 tlowery,
embelhshed, tlamboyant. fancy, elaborate.
Ant. 1 pale, ashen. pallid, anemic. bloodless.
2 plain, unadorned, simple, classic.
flo·til·la (fl,Hil'a) n.
1 A fleet of small vessels: a flotilla oj fisl.ing
boals. 2 U.S. Navy A small tleet of ships of
the same or related types.
flot·sam (flot'sam) n.
1 Goods from or parts of a wrecked ship that
~
are found floating on the sea or are swept
ashore. 2 Homeless, very poor, or unattached
persons: the flotsam sleeping on park benches
in a big cit,y.
flour·ish (flnr'ish) v., n.
v. 1 To grow or fare well or prosperously;
thrive: Our tomalo plants are flourishing. 2 To
move with sweeping motions; wave about:
The orchestra conductor flourished his balon.
n. 1 The act of waving about or brandishing:
a flourish oj a Jencing Joil. 2 A curved or deco­
rative stroke in penmanship; She signed her
name with a flourish. 3 Something done pri­
marily for effect or display: He recited the
poem with a flourish. 4, A lively, decorative
passage of music; a flourish oj trumpets.
ilout (flout) v.
To express scorn or contempt for; defy \'lith
open contempt: to flout c071vention.-flout'er
n., flout'jng.ly adv.
Usage: See FLAUNT.
Syn. scoff, jeer, mock.
Ant. approve, respect, esteem.
flue·tu·ate (tluk'choo·at) v. fluc·tu·at·ed, flue·
tu.at.jng
To change or vary often and in an irregular
manner; be unsteady or move up and down:
His moods fluetllated Jrom great Jriendliness
diers Jorayed behind enemy lines.
to sullen a?lger.-fluc'tu.a'tion n.
Syn. n. incursion, invasion: I'. pillage, loot,
Syn. shift, swing, sway, waver.
despoil, strip, sack, raid.
Ant. abide. remain steady. hold fast.
for·bear (fOr·bilr') v. for· bore, for.borne, for·
ftu.en.cy (fl60'un·se) n.
Smoothness and readiness in speech and writ­
ing: a fluency in French.
Syn. ease. eloquence, mellifluousness.
flu·o· res· cent (tloo'a,res'ant Or fiiJ6r·es'ent) adj.
Absorbing radiation of a certain wavelength
and giving it ot!' as light: a fluorescent lamp .
•-flu'o.res'cence n.
fluor·o·scope (tlil6r'a·skOp) n.
A device for looking at the shadows projected
upon a fluorescent screen by objects put be­
tween it and a direct beam of X rays or other
radiation. Doctors often use fluoroscopes to
study the inner organs of the body.-fluor'­
(l·Bcop'icadj., f!uor.os.co·py (floor·os'ka·pe) n.
flux (fiuks) n.
1 A continuous flowing out: a flux of 'lew
~
publications to the newslands. 2 Constant
movement or change: Tile stock market is
always in a slale oj flux. 3 In medicine An
abnormal and excessive di8~harge of fluid
matter from the body, especially in dysen­
tery.
Syn. 1 flood, stream.
604
..
~
l
f!!IIII!I
.- I
I!!!!!I
forcible I
~
foi·ble (foi'bal) n.
A persollal weakness or failing; slight fault
I!!!!I,
of character: Dwelling on Ihe Pl1st is a Joible
oj many older people.
Syn. frailty, defect, imperfection, short­
coming.
fo·ment (fc·melle) v. "
To stir up or instigate rebellion. discord. etc.:
Communists Jomented a riot.-~fo'men·ta'tion,
fo·ment'er n.
Usage: See l'BRMBNT.
SYll. promote, encourage, stimulate.
Ant. quench. quell. discourage. I
fool·har.dy (fOoI'harJde) adj. fool·har.di.er,
fool.har·di·est ~
Bold and daring in a foolish and reckless I
way: Clilllbing a "lOwltain witl/()ut the proller ~
cquipmellt is a Juollwrdy venture.····fool'har'­ t
di·ness n.
Syn. rash. imprudent, careless, impUlsive. ~
Ant. sensible, careful, prudent.
for.age (fc)1"ij or for'iil n.; v. for.aged, for.ag.ing ~
n. I Food suitable for .horlles, cattle, and
other farm animals: Hay and grain are tupes
ojJorage. 2 A searching aLout for food or sup­ ~
plies. or a raid to captul'C such provisions: t
AJler tlte bulllc the soldiers went on a Jorage. ~
I'. 1 '1'0 search about or rUlllmage around for I
s{)mething, as food or supplies: 10 Jurare in
Ihe woods Jor grass and berries; Joraging w the ~
closet Jor Ids olher rubber. 2 To st.rip of pro­
visiolls Ly plundering and scizill~: Re/reating
armies Jorayed the enlire country~tdc.
Syn. 11. 1 feed. fodder, provender. 2 foray.
v. 1 hunt. 2 loot. ravage, despoil, maraud.
for·ay (for'a or for'a) n., v.
n. An expedition or raid, as for plunder: 1'he
college students went on Jorays in the town.
v. '1'0 make a foray; plunder: A group oj sol­
bear.ing
1 To refrain from or cease "orne action, etc.:
to Jorbear entering into an argument. 2 '1'0 act
with patience: to Jorbear Jrom punishing him
Jor his fits oj batlleJllper.~·for.bear'ance n.
for· bid (far·bid' or for·Lid') Il. for· bade (f.:.r­
bad') or for· bad, for·bid·den, [or.bid·ding
1 'fo command a person not to do something:
Tlw policeman Jorbade me to jaywalk. 2 To
ha ve the effect of preventing; make impossi­ I
ble: 'l'he .torm forbids 01(r drivinu to tlte beach.
-for·bid'dance n. ~
Syn. 1 prohibit. 2 hinder. hamper. I
Ant. 1 allow, permit. 2 facilitate, expedite. ~
for·ceps (!cr's<lps) n" for·ceps 1'1. 1
A pair of pincers for grasping and manipUlat­
ing small or delicate objects, used by doctors.
surgeons. dentists. etc.
for·cj·ble ({or'sa·bal) adj.
1 Brought about by strength: Ihe forcible
ejection oj tile inlwders. 2 lIa ving strength:
powerful; a forcible argument; a Jorcible biOi'"
Syn. 1 forced, violent. 2 forceful, strar:"
vigorous, mighty. ­
~
~
~
tss,
~ forebear foster
~
Ant. 1 nonviolent. 2 weak, ineffective, im­ form·a·tive (f6r'ma.tiv) adj.
~ potent. 1 Having power to shape or mold: Parents
are a formative influence. 2 Pertaining to
fore·bear (fOr'bdr) n.
~ An ancestor.
Spelling tip: Also spelled forbear.
formation or development: The formative
years occur in early childhood.
for·mi·da·ble (fOr'rni<dv·bul) adj.
~
Syn. progenitor, forefather.
t Exciting fear ur dread uy rCason of great
fore·bode (for·bOd' or f(lr·hOd') v. fo~e.bod.ed. size or strength: a formidable ol)pOllellt. 2 Ex­
fore.bod.lng tremely difficult because of great size, etc.:
'bit 1 To indicate in advance; to be an omen of:
Shooting stars were once thought to forebode
a formidable task.
Syn. 1 fierce, fearsome. 2 overpowering,

~ disaBter. 2 To have a premonition of some­

thing evil or harmful: He foreboded a disas­
massive, Herculean.

Ant. 1 weak. inferior, negligible. 2 easy, sim­

ter, but did not divulge his fear to anyone.

1fAs1:s, r
Syn. augur, bode, portend. 2 foresee.
ple, trifling.

for·mu·la (filr'mYd·j,l) n., for·mu-las or for.

fore·bod.iug (filr·hO'ding or for·to'ding) n. mu·lae (f6r'm:ra·1e) pI.
~ A feeling that something bad is going to
happen: to awaken with a foreboding of im­
1 A preseriptlon or recipe, or tbe mixture
prepared according to a prescription or
~
minent disaster. recipe: " formula for a cOj,gil medicille. We
Syn. premonition, presentiment, appre­ changed lhe baby's formula. 2 A set of words
hension. fixed by conventioll or traditioll. especially
~ forC-cRst (f6r'knst' or Illr'kast') n,; •. fore·
cast or fore.east·ed, fore·cast.lng
one which rllls h(~cornc n Ineauil1g1e~s for­
mality. 3 A rule or combination represented
IIbntv n. A prediction or prophecy: the weather fore­ in mathematical symbols.
coill. for.syth·i·a (!6r·sith'e·d, f6r·sj'the·;; ur f;Jr·
v. 1 To predict by means of observation and
sith'e'il) n.
~ study: to forecast rain; 10 forecast a stock­

market boum. 2 To be an advance illdieation

A shrub of the olive family that bears bright

yellow flowers: Fursythia JlulVer.~ appear in
of: The sudden drop in tile barometer forecast

1f'--l!jJ a }wrricane.

early spring.
EtynlOlogy: This shrub was mUlled. after
Syn. n. projection, prognustication. v. 2 au­
William Forsyth (1737-1804), a British
~ gur, presage, foreshadow.

fore·cas·tle (fok'sal) n.
botanist who brought it to England.
forth (forth or fOrth) adv.
~ The part 01 the upper deck of a ship located
forward of the mast nearest the bow, or a
1 Forward in place or time: from lhis day
furlh. 2 Out, a~ from hiding or place of origin:
section of a merchant ship near the bow in Come forth! Put forth SOUle effort!
4!-*'!e which the sailors' living quarters are located. Spelling lip: Do nut confuse furth and fourth
fo·ren·sic (fa·ren'sik) adj. (4th).
~ 1 Pertaining to, characteristic of, or used in
courts of justice or pUblic debate. 2 Pertain­
Syn. lon, onward.
fort· night ,filrt'nu' ur fOrt'nit') n.

~
ing to fnrensics (the art or study of argu­ Two weeks: tv gel ]laid ollce <l fortnight.

mentation): Hia forensic ability "wcie him a

.. ~
famous debater.
Syn. 1 legal. 2 dialectical.
fore·see (fOr·s!!' or for<se') t'. fore,saw, fore·
for·tu·i·tous (for-t(y)oo'o·tas) adj.
Occurring by chance rather than by design;
accidental: an une.(pected, forttlilvlls en­
counter.
~ seen, for.see.ing
To know about an event hefore it happens:
Syn. chance. ad v€ n titious.
for. ward (for'WDrd) wtv., adj., n., v.
The soolh"uyer foresaw Julius Caesar's assas­
.~ sination. adv. Toward the front or toward the future:
Syn. foreknow.
to move furward; to look forward luretirelllent.
adj. 1 At or in the front part: the forward Cars
~
-

for·feit (for'fit) n., V., adi.

of the/rain. 2 Overly aggres"ive; bold or rude:
11. SometLitlg taken away or giv,m up a~ a
penalty. or the giving up or loss of something
~ as a penalty: Ihe forfeit of his <guud name.
v. To lose or give up as a penalty: The team
diel nut appear awi !lwrefor, forfeilt:d the game.
adj. Taken away or liable to be taken away
as a penalty: Their lives will be furfeit.
S)'n. 1!. forfeiture, loss. adj. lost, forfeited.
for·mat (for'mat) n.
The overall arrangement of something, as
the form, size, margins, and graphic and
typographical style 01 a book or other publi­
cation: the format of the brochure; the forma! of
the televisiun show.
S1n. form, design.
'The iJOUHlj 'wan had a di$lrcs;tillrJfy JOrloHnl
nwnncr, (Ind was: not v(,ry popular.
11. A play£'r ill the front line, or one who leads
the offensive: the Iwo forwards U11 Ihe basket­
b,,11 leal".
". 1 To help to advance: A.I! "tlva,lced cieyree
furwarded his coreer. 2 To send on, as to a new
address: 10 forward mail.
Sp(!lIing tip: Do not confuse furwlIn.l with
foreword, meaning the preface of a book
(pronoun.:ed the same as furwanl).
Cos-ter (fos'tor or fos'tar) v., adj.
v. 1 '1'0 bring up a child: She lovinglY fustered
both children. 2 To promote the development
or growth of, or to keep alive: 1'uturing f08­

605
 ::-aI

....
~

~
,
•
•
O!!!!!I.
f!!!!!I.•
foyer fritter
tered hi8 genius. The iaterview fostered his

hopes of getting the job.

adj. Having a given relationship as a result

of rearing only, not by birth; a foster child or

foster 1)({rent.

Syn. v. I rear, raise, nurture. 2 advance,

promote, sustain.

Ant. v. 2. discourage, destroy, ruin. kill.

fraught (frOl) adj,

Filled with: a jounlCY fraught "'iilt ,/(mger.
Syn. laden, loaded.
fray (Ira) v.
1 To cause cloth, rope, ete., to separate into

loose threads at the edges l>y iridion or wear;

Long 'IFcar had fra!Jrd Ih" col/a I' of Id" shirl.

2 To become fray,,,]; The <'IJ/lur fmycd "fltr
~

...
~
t

•
•
foy·er (foj'ar or foi'a) n. a few munths uf wntr. ~
1 A public lobby in a hotel. theater. etc.: to Syn. 1, 2 frazzle, taller. I
smoke il) the foyer dnring iatrrmission. 2 An
entrance hall in II house or apartment: through
freeze (irez) v. froze, fro·zen, frcez·ing
1 To change into iee by the aetion of cold;
~
the front do()r into IIw fvyer. to !rr:cz(' lI)atcr illto it;!! cuue;:;, 2 '1'0 Iwt;onw or I
Hyn. I lohhy, hall. 2 vestibule, (:ntruneewuy. ca!l~e to be COVel',,,l or filled with ice: The f!I!!!!.
fru·cas ({ra'k"s or (rak'Js) 11.
pond fmze OI'CT. 3 To damage or kill, or be I
A noisy disturbance or fight; brawl: Their
damaged or killed, by great cold: The crop
fight allraeted a mob and turncd ill to are,,!
froze during the nigh/. 4 To hold prires, wages, I!!!!.
fracas.
ele., at a fixed level: to freeze wag". </nriuu •
Syn. row, melee, ruckus. wartime. 5 To becomG motionless. as through ~
frac·tious (frak'shas) adj. fear or sho(:k: They had frozen with terror. t
1 Apt to be unruly or rebellious: a fructiolls, 6 To l>ecome idly aloof, formal, oj' unfriendly
spoiled child, 2 Easily annoyed or angered; ill manlier: lie wanted to be a genial host btlt ~ ,
cranky; a fractious old man. he /ruze up as the fir.1 yws/ "rril'nl.
~
Syn. l wayward. disorderly. 2 irritable, pee­
vish, querulous. bad-tempered.
Ant. 1 obedient, docile. 2 good-natured,
fren.zied (fren/zed) adj.
Wildly, almost insanely, excited: 11 fl'clIzi",z ,
amiable,
mub at/acted Ihc }"t/ed {grem/.
Syn. wild, frantic, hysterical.
~
I
frag·He (fraj'"l) adj. fres·co (frt,;;'I(O) 11., fres·coes or fres·ros Ill.

F;aBily hrohen: a fragile porcelain le,I<'''1'. The art of painting on a pl",ler surface,
~
Syn. frail, delicate, brittle, breakable. especially while the plasler b still moist; also,

Ant. tough. sturdy. a picture so painted.

frail·ly (fral't!!) n., frail·tics pI. fric.as.sec (frik'<J·se') n.; I'. frie.as·seed, fric.

I '1'ho state or quality of being delicate and as·see·ing

weak: the frailty of a p·orce/ain va3C; Ihe frailty 11. Meat that is (:ut small, Slewed, and served
~
of an emaciated. tubercular old man. 2 A fault in gravy: chicken fT'j<'iII5scL I
or moral weakness: Drinking too rrwch is his v. To make into such a dish: She fricasseed f!!!!!iI!II!!.
great frailty. tlte chicken. I
Syn. 1 delicacy, fragility, weakness. 2 flaw,

failing.
friend (frend) 11. ~
Ant. l. strength, toughness, sturdin!!s$, re­
I A person one knows vcry well and for whom I
silience.
one has warm regard Or utreclion. 2 A putron
fran,ehise (fran'chjz) n.
I '1'he right to vote; suffrage: The fW11eilise
or supporter: a friend of IIw arts. 3 A persoll
who belongs to the samc l1utillll, party, etc.

~
,
as orw;;elf Of with \\'hOI1) one i::; uldtpd in BOlne

was extended to al! citizens. 2 A special privi­ purpose; Friend or fiJI) 4 (Capilal j.') A m8ln­ ~
lege granted by a government: a franc/tise to
operate a bus line. 3 Permission given to a
dealer to market a certain company's goods
bel' of the Society of Friends; Quak,'r.
Syn. 1 intimate, buddy. 2 uuvocate, hene­ ~ "
or services using the name of the parent factor. 3 associate, comrade, ally. I
Ant. 3 enemy, opponent, f",'.
company: 'J'he famous restaurant granted a ~
franchise to two individual". 4 The territory frieze (lrez) 11.
over which such special permissions extend: A decorative horizonlal strip. as along tbe
tile EasleT!! States franchise. top of u wall in a room. ~
I
fra,ter·ni·ly (frd·lur'na·te) n., frater.ni,tics pI. frig·id (frij'id) "dj.
1 The state or spirit of being brothers: Ih" I Bitterly c(Jltl: (I friyi<l will/('{ ,[" y. 2 Lue](­ ~
fraternity amony all who had been through Ihe ing; warnllh of feeling: u fn'U'id rcsJ)ollse to 'my I
revolution together. 2 In U.S. colleges A so­ illvilalion. 3 Habitually lacking sexualleeling
ciety of male s( ndenls, usually ha \' i ng a or reacl iOll l~aid of wOln(!n). rrig'id.!y adl'.,
~
Greek-Ieller nallle: the Sigma Chi fm/ani/y. fri'llid'i.ty )I. I
a A body of people shuring the sam" interests, Syn. 1 frl:czing) wintry, icy. j illditIerenl ~ l

profession, etc.: tlte medical fralernily. unent huslrU;lic, rc:.:)ervcd.

Srn. 1 brotherhood, camaraderie, fraternal­

ism. 3 Lrotherhood, fellowship.
Ant. 1 hot, tOl'l'itl, sultry. 2 warm, C!llthubi­

astic.
~
frand·n·lent (fr6'ja·hmt) adj.
Characterized by deception and trickery; a
frit·ter (frit'''r) ll., n.

v. To waste or squander little hy lilll,,; ~

fraudulent stock manipulation, frWM alvay an i llilr;ritUllce.
Srn. dishonest, deceitful.

Ant. honest, legal, aboveboard.

n. A small cake mnde of plain halter

corn, meat, fruit, etc.
~
C""'!!I
606
~
..,
~
frolicsome
~
~
frol.ie·some (frol'ik·sam) adj.
Gay and lighthearted; a frolicsome colt.
Syn. playful,. prankish.
~ frond (frond) n.
A large leaf, or a leafiike expansion, as of a
~ palm tree or fern.
fron.tal (trun'tal) adj.
~ I Of, in, on, or having to do with the front;
a masoive fronlal (tUack 0 il the enemy forces.
2 Of, for, or having to do with the forehead
~ or frontal bone.
frow.zy (lrou'ze) adj. frow.zi.er, frow·zi·est
~
1 Slovenly in appearance: a frowzy ItOusewife
in froni of her TV Bel. 2 Having a disagree­
able smell: a room fi!ledwith Ihe fro'wzy odor
~ of sl,de ciga.retie smoke and dirly laundry.··­
frow'zi,ness n.
~ Spelling tip: This word is ,11'0 spelled frowsy.
Syn. 1 mes"y, slatternly, unkempt. 2 musty,
stuffy, offensive.
~ Ant. 1 neat, attractive. 2 agreeable, {Jleasing.
fru.gal.i·t)" (frQ().gal'a·le) n.
~
The 4uality of being eClmomical; cardu[ne~B
in uBing and spending.
~
Syn. thrift, economy.
Ant. extravagance, wastefulness.
~
fuch·sia (iyoo'sha) n., adj.
n. J A flY ',f various 1)lantH wilh drooping,
t A fit of g'fl:at I'agl~j llIaniaeai fllry: The HlOU'S
four-pt:taled tioWel'H. 2 A bright blulBh red,
furor was terrifying. 2 Intense, usually wide­
~ the typical color of t he fuchsia.
adj. Bright bluish red: fuchsia ,1raperi(lS.
~ CuI· crum (Ur{,l'ln,)m) n., ful·crumB OT ful·cra
(tOt.I'kr.,) 1,1.
The support on whieh a lever rests, or about
~ which It turns.
fuJ.till (filUUil') v. ful·Jilled, ful.tll\.ing
~ 1·1'0 make real something promised, hO{Jcd
for, cte.: fulfilling lhe high /topes his parenls
had for him. 2 To do or perform something
~ commanded or requested: failing 10 fllifill a
direct order. 3 To come u{J to or satisfy: jul­
.~ filling the requirements for lwiversitll admis­
...
~
sion. 4 To gut through to tho end of: fulfi.lliHO
her assigned laska for the duy.--ful·nllment
11.
Spelling lip: Fulfil is an allernate spelling for
.~ this word. However, fulfill is preferred in
the U.H.
~
ful·mi·nate (lul/ma'nat) v. ful.mi·nat·ed, ful.
mi·nal·ing
I '1'0 make loud or violent verbal attacks:
Iv fulminate against laxes. 2 To explode sud­
dunly and violently, as a ehemieal,·- ful'mi·
na/tor 11. ' The body of all airplane. containing tlw
Syn. 1 denounce, inveigh.
rul·some (fOoI'sam) adj.
Exce5sive in such an insincere way as to Le
diBtaHccful: (L fu160",0 CO/lip/intel//.- ful'Home.
ly aav., ful',wfne.nesll n.
Etymology: Fulsome once meant plentiful,
abundant, or full. In time, however, the
word began to mean too full or full in a false
way, and this is the only sense in which it is
used today.
SYI\. immoderate, gross, exaggerated.
fusion
fu!\c·liol\·ar.y (fungk'shGn·er'e) n., fune·lion·
ar.ies pI.
A {Jerson who serves in some specific capac­
ity, especially in a governmental or {Jolitical
position: one of Ihe many ust/ess funvlionaries
in cily /tall.
Syn. ollicial, civil servant, bureaucrat.
fu·ne·re·al (fyoo·nir'e-<ll) adj.
Depressingly sad or gloomy: A. bas;;c! hound
/tas a junereal eJ:]Jrcs;Jion.
Syn. melancholy, doleful.
Ani. cheerful, joyous.
fUll. gus (fung/gJs) 11., run.gi (lun'i') or fun·
gus·os "I.
Any of a group of plants that are nonflower­
ing and have no chlon,phyll: Mushrooms,
molds, and milde!!'" aTe fungi.
fu·nic.lI·lar (fyOij.nik'YJ·iar) adj., H.
"t/j. Moved by the pull of a cuule, rope, etc.,
as a st.reetcar ill a hilly section.
n. A railway along which cable cars are
drawn.
fur·be·low (Hn'b,)· if)) i1,. il.
n. A rullle, frill. or similar piece of trimming:
an attractive/y simple dress with 110 fussy fur­
belows.
v. '1'0 trim with furbelows.
fll·ror (fYimr'or) I'.
spread excilement or "nthus]asl": Ihe great
furor c(lUsed by his /l'UC lJ/a!j.
Spelling iiI': Also s[wlkrl fur"re.
Syn~ 1 HHl-dlW~X, frt'llzy . .2 adlHiralioll, :st it'.
fur·ther (fur'bhal'j eUlllparalive of far; ado.,
adj., v.
adv. 1 A t or to a more di~lall t or remote
point; further back in hislory. 2 To a greater
degree; lit a lillie whik we will (j'ifstion him
further.
adj. 1 More distant: the fiLrlher side of lhe
village. 2 Additional; Make 110 fur titer remarks.
v. To help forwnrd; promote; 10 furtlter lite
project with a financial c(mtribalio)/.
Uklage: See j'i;In'll£I\.
fur·live (fUl"t.iv) adj.
I Done in secret: She slol" a jurlive glance.
2 Sly: 'There 'was a furlive look "bolll him that
made '/1'" im1Heiliatdll .mapicio",. fur/(jvc.ly
adv., fur/Uvc·ncsM IL
Syn, 1 stealthy, surreptitious, concealed.
2 evasive, shifty.
AnI. 1 open, ap{Jarent. 2 hOliest, forthright.
fu.se·lage (fyOli'",,·lij or fyi)O'".)-liizh) II.
cockpit, cabin, etc., uut excluding the wings
and tail.
fu·sil·lade (fyoo'sa-lud', fyoo'sa-llid', fyoo'sa.
IUfl', or fyiITJ'sJ·llid') II.
I Tho Z$irnuHaucou>i uf 1 apidlY n·pvatl..~d dis­
charge of many tlrearms. 2 Anything that is
like such a discharge: "fusillade uf hails/ones.
Syn. volley, salvo, broadside.
fu·sion (fyoo'zlwn) n.
1 A melting or blending togellwr: a lIwtallic
component, susceptible to fusiun. 2 The state
607

fustian
or condition of being melted or blended to·
gether, or something formed in this way: the
fusion that resulted from the reconciliation of
two dissident factiolls.3 A thermonuclear
reaction in which the nuclei of a light element
undergo transformation into those of a heav­
ier element, with the release of great energy.
Usage: See FISSION.
fus·tian (fus'chan) II.
I A coarse, twilled cotton fabric, as corduroy.
2 Pretentious speech or writing; a political
rally filled wilh fustian.
Syn. 2 bombast, rhetoric.
fu·tile (fyoo/lal) adj.
I Being of no avail; done in vain: fu.tile at­
tempts to change her husband, 2 Of no im­
portance: futile chatter.-Cu'tiIe.ly adv., ju'­
tile.ness 11.
Syn. 1 ineffectual, fruitless. 2 frivolous, triv­
ial, unimportant.
G ground.
gad·fiy (gad'/H') 1!., gad.llies pI.
lOne of various large fiies, as the horsefiy,
that bite cattle, horses, etc. 2 An irritating,
persistent person; especially, one who tries to
stimulate others to activity: The new~paper
columnist is a gadfly about improper govern­
ment spending.
Syn. 2 nuisance, annoyance, scourge.
gaff (gaf) n., v.
n. A sharp iran hook at the Elnd of a pole, for
landing a large fish. 2 A spar for extending
the upper edge of a fore-and·aft sail.
v. To strike or land with a gaff: to gaff a blue
marlin.
Usage: Gaff is. often used in the infurmal
idiom to stand the gaff, which means to
patiently endure hardship, ridicule, etc.: Why
don't you come to my little boy's birthday party,
if you can stand the gaff?
gai.e·ty (ga'a·te) n., gai'.e.lies pI.
1 Gay, merry spirits: the children's gaiety. 2
Fun and frolic: the gaiety of the festival. 3
Bright colorfulness; the gaiety of their
costumes.-gay'ness 1!.
gain. say (gan'sa') v. gain.said, gain·say.ing
1 To deny: That health is the flreatcst wealth
cannot be gainsaid. 2 To contradict: I -will not
gainsay Ids statement, although I do not believe
it is true.
ga.la (ga'lu or gal'Q) adj., n.
adj. Having to do with or fitting for a festive
occasion; gay: a gala night an the IOlnl.
n. A joyuus or festive occasion or celebra­
order to settle a debt.
tion.
n. A person whuse sala.ry, etc., has be(~n ~o
Syn. adj. fe$tal, colorful, splendid. n. holiday,
takell.-~gar·nish·ment (gar'nish'lIl"llt) n.
festival, feast, fete.
gal·ax.y (gal'uk·se) 71., gal.ax·ies pI.
1 In astronomy AllY large system of stars or
other heavenly bodies. 2 (Usually capital G)
The Milky Way. 3 Any brilliant group, as o[
persons; L! galaxy of well-known (lctors.
gam.ut ( gam'at) n.
I The whole range of anything from one
extreme to the other: His crimes ran the
608
:.f!!!!!I
~
;f!!!II
f!!!!!!!!
f!!!!!
garrulous
~
gamut from petty thievery to murder. 2 The
entire range or compass of tones used in ~
modern music.
ganl·let (glint'lit or gunt'lit) n.
1 A former military punishment in which the
I!!!!!!!
offender ran between two lines of nlen anned
with clubs, whips, etc .. who struck !lim us he ~
passed. 2 A series of diillculties of any kind.
Usage: Ca.1/11r/ is usually llsed only in the
phrase to run the gautlet: :ifiWory prisoners
ofttll had to 1'itn ihe ganilet as part of their
puui,:.;hrncfd. 'Jfl te new ?)iar fwd to run the
gantlet of ullfavurable (:riticul reviews.
Spelling tip: See GAUNTLET.
Syn. 2 ordeal, test, trial.
gape (gap) v. gaped. gap.ing; fl,
v. 1 To stare with the mouth open, as in
wonder or ~urprh5e: 'The cr01cd gaped at lite
aeeidwt. 2 To open the mouth wide, as in
ya wning: Baby birds gape to r"cdve fuod. 3 To
be or become open wide: a gUl'iny h"le ill the
n. 1 The act of gaping. 2 A wide opening or
gap: the h11gl gape of all extinct VO/CIlIlO.
Syn. v. 1 goggle, gawk, rubbel'l1eck.
Gar.gall·tu.un (gar·gun'eh60,un) adj.
Very large; having tremendolls size or ~
capaeity: the Gargantuan stretches of lI,nlare­
tica; a Gargn 1I/11an appetite.
~
•
- ••
Etymology: Gurgul1tllan comes {;'om UarY£lll­
lUll, the peace-loving giant prinee of the
French writer Rabelais' bouk of the :;ame ~
name (153,1). Thi> giant waS knowll especially
for his enormous appHite.
Syn. huge, colossal, enormous.
AIlI. average, small, Sl:ant.
~
,
gar·bh (gilr'iob) adj.
Too showy or gaudy: a II.'OJ//(W in (l garish red
dress; a garish electric sign.-gar'ish.ly ativ.,
~
,
gar'ish.ness 11. ~
Syn. fiaBhy, tawdry, umaia.
Allt. plain, :;impie, subdued. ~
•
gar·nish (gar'nish) v., n.
v. I In cooking To decorale a di,;h with (lavor­
~
•
some or colorful trimmings: Ruileti potatoes
garn'i.hed wilh plUs/ey. 2 '1'0 embellish.
n. 1 Sumething added to fuoC\ ready for ~
serving to decorate it or improve it:i flavor:
fish lvilh a garnish of lemo., wedges. 2 Any
added deeorntiull or emhellishment: 'Phe ~
led«re" oflcn had tI yarllish of II!!>iwr.
gar.nish·ee (giir'ni,h·e') v. gar,ubh,eed, ~
gar.nish·cc·ing; '1L
v. In law '1'0 take a certain percemage of a
person's salary, wages~ etc.) by legallneuns in ~
~
Syn. v. attach.
gar.ru·!i·ty (ga·rOO'ld·te) 11.
~
Glib, empty, or excessive talkativeness: The
garrulity of a lonely housewife is often ~
irritating.
gar·ru·lous (gar'a·lus or gar'Yd·l"s) adj, ,~
1 Talking a great deal, especially about un­
~
important or boring things: (! lonely, garru­
lou.s old man. 2 Rambling and wordy: a garfl<­
~
~
~

....

-=s,
~ gaseous gentian
~ lous account of his vacation.-gar/ru.lous.ly 1 A record or table showing the uescent of a
~ adv., gar/ru.lous.ness n.

Syn. 1 talkative, loquacious, chatty. 2 ver­

person or a filmily from a certllin ancestor:

the genealugy of the Ada1ll~ family. 2 Descent
bose, long-winded.
in a direct line from a specific ancest(Jr: proud
~ Ant. 1 quiet, laconic, unresponsive. 2 terse,

concise, succinct.

of his illu.striuus genealogy. 3 The 8tucly of

family descent: an expert in yen('(llo!ly.~~ge.
~ ga.s·e·ous (gas'e·as, gas'yvs, or gash'vs) adj.
Being, having to do with, or like gas: "
ne·a.log.ie (je'ne.e.loj'ik)
elll adj., ge'lIe.il.log'j.cal·ly
gc'lIe.a.log'i.
Spelling tip: ~Many of our words emling in
~ gaseous sllbstance.
gas·lri·iis (gas·trI/tis) n.
-logy have an 0 beior"e the ending, ~s oiology,
philology, embryology. Genealogy, however,
~
Inflammation of the lining of the stomach, has an a preceding -lugy, although the word
especially of the mucous membranes. is pronounced (je'ne·ol' '),je).
gas·iro·nome (gas'tra.nOm) n. Syn. 1 lillellge, ancestry, pedigreo.
~ A person who delights in fine food amI
drink.-·gas.tro.nom.ic (gas'tra·nom'ik) adj.,
gen·er·al,i·ty (jen'a.ral'a·te) n., gen·cr."I·i.lic,;

ass, gas·troll·o.my (gas.tron'a·me) n.

Syn. gourmet, epicure.
pi.
1 The state or tjualily of alreeling, pertaining
tn, or incluuing all 01' tbe whole. 2 A slate­
ga.uche (gosh') adj.
~
ment or idea lacking in detail and precise­
Awkward, clumsy, or illllpt, especiaJly in ness: a speech full of meaninyless [lenaalities.
social behavior: She 'WaS frequently embur­ 3 The greater number of a group: Th..;
~ rassed oy Ihe gauche actions of her roommale.
Etymology: Gauche has been borrowed from
glinerality of !IV/us selected a struig/,/ tick"'.
gC'ller.ic (ji·ner'ik) adj.
the :French word for left-handed.
1Ik:so Syn. maladroit, boorish.
Ant. adroit.
I Of or ha ving to do with a genus, group, or
class of related things: llamo is 1Iu: generic
1lame of l'ariol(8 species of erect, lurge-brained
'lisa, gaunt.let (gont'lit or gilnt'litj n.
1 In 7rI"dieval armur A glove eovCI'ed with
pri1nales, 2 IIaving a wide, general a.pplica­
tion; not ;;peeiHe: 1iH'uiul illnc.<);·;cs gruuped
melal plates to protect the hand. 2 A modern
~
under the generic heading of "psychu>!es."
type of glove with a long, often flaring ex­ ge.ner'j.cal.ly nt/v.
tension over the wrist. Syn. 2 collecti ve, oomprehensive.
~ Spelling tip: Be careful not to C(,BrUBe
gauntlet, the glove, with l/ulltld, the punish­
ment. Although both words may be spelied
Ant. 2particlllar, definite, explicit.
ge.nie (jl!'ne) n., lic·ni.j (ie'ntH) 1'1. .

~
In l11aslem myilwlogy A supernatural b(;ll\g
either way, gauntlet is preferred for the glove who has great powers and is often al the call
and gantlet for the punishment or ordeal. and service of men.
~ ga.zetie (ga·zet') n.; v. gll.zet.led, ga.zet.Ung
n. 1 A newspaper or similar regular publica­
tion (now usually used in the titles of sume
SpelLing tip: Genic is also spdje,j (lj,,,,,i (ii·
n~'), jimwe (jin.ne'), or jimd (jin'iJ or ji·ne'),
but genie is usually preferred.
CJfit1:;t publications). 2 An official publication, as of
gen.ius (jen'yas) n., gen·ius·es fur deis. 1, Z, 4,
a government or society; especially one issued
5, 6 and ge.ni.i (ie·niH) for def. :i.
lise, by the British government listing official
appointments, bankruptcies, etc.
v. To publish or announce in a gazelte.
I A very high degree of intelligence or talent,
or a person who posse:;se" this: the !lcuius uf

~ Etymology: Gazette comes from the Italian
(Venetian) dialect word gazeta, a small coin
that was originally the price of such a
~ publication.
gaz·et·teer (gaz'u·tir') 11.
~ A work or section of a work, such as a
dictionary, listing countries, cities, rivers,
~
etc., together with such statistics as their
loca tion, size, and population.
Eins!ein. 2 An aptitude for cloing some speci­
fic thing: SJ/U has" gertius for making tactless
remarks. 3 1 n ancient myliwlog y A super­
natural being appointed to guide " person
throughout life; guardian 3)lirit. ,1 The spirit
or distinguishing charactenstic uf a pm'';cu­
lar perSall, people, place. time in history,
etc.: the genius of Uerwissallce "rl <1'I(l letiers.
5 A person who exerts a strong inJlncnce over
another for gaud or ed!; R(wpulin waS the

....

~
~
gei·sha (ga'sha Or ge'sha) n., gel·sha or gel.shas
pI.
A. Japanese girl who has Leen trained to
furnish entertainment by singing, dancing,
conversing, and serving tea.
gen·darme (zhlln'dllrm) I/.
evil geniu$ of the Empress of R-,,"siu.
gen·re (zhan'rd) n.,
n. 1 A particular sort! or cal(:g,ory. l~::;;pe­
cially il category of art or literature charac~
terized by a certain form, "tyl", or subject
matter: liindu mHsie iSVUtids odd tv many
~ I In Fra1lce A memher of a corps of armed
...

~
police. 2 Any policeman (a humorous usage).
Etymology: Gendarme has been borrow,,<l
lVeslenwrs not familiurwilh til" genre. 2 A
type of painting that deals with eVPl"yday
life: the gl!1"u pruducc<i oy th.- 1)"lell "",,,kl"'.
,.,. directly from the :French, where it was once
written as a plural, liens d'ar11les, literally
adj. Of or having; to do with painting dealing
with everyday life: RembnlHdt" II genre
meaning men-at-arms. painter.
....

- !!!!IiI

ge.ne·al.o.gy (jil'nil·ol'a·jil or je'ne.al',,·je) n., gen·tian (jen'sihm) ,I.

.... "!!'!$ ge·ne.al.o·gies pI. 1 Any of a large group uf Europuan and

--,

. . . .'$

609
gentry
American plants with showy, usually blue or
yellow flowers. 2 The root of this plant from
which is made a medicine for soothing the
stomach.
gen·try (jen'tre) n.
1 People of good family or social back­
ground: a member of the New England pentry.
2 People of a particular area, occupatIOn, or
kind (now used chiefly in a patronizing or
humorous way): the local gentry; the gambling
gentry.
Syn. 1 aristocracy. 2 folks.
Syn. bauble. trifle, knickknack.
Ant. I masses, hoi polloi.
gey·ser ( gi'zar or gi'sar) n.
gen.u·f!ect (jen/ya·flekt) v.
To bend the knee, as in worship: The priest
genujlected before the altar.-gen'u.f!cc'!ion 1/.
Etymology: Genuflect comes from two Latin
words, genu (knee) and jledere (to bend).
ge·nus (jli'nas) n., gen·e·ra (jen/ar'a) or
ge·nus·es pI.
In biology A closely related group or categor y
of plants or animals made up of one or more
species: floth horses and donkeys belong to the
genus "Equus."
ger,mane (jGr·man') adj.
Related to what is being discussed or con­
sidered; relevant: Hi~ eomnwn/g are not
germane to this aruumenl.
Syn. pertinent, appropriate, relative, fitting,
1 A section of a city or town in which Jews
suitable. proper.
were made to 1I\'e in former times. 2 Any
Ant. irrelevant, alien, unsuitable, unrelated.
section of a city or tOWll inhabited by
ger.mi,nate (jur'ma.nat) v. ger.rni·nat·ed,
ger,rni.nat.ing
l To begin or cause to grow or develop;
sprout: S~eds germinate in the spring. 2 To
evolve or cause to evolve: :l'een-agers today
germinate new trends of thong/lt.-ger'mi.nll'­
lion, ger'rni.na'tor n.
Syn. 1 bud, shoot, burgeon, 2 develop, unfold.
produce, .
ger·ry·man·der (jer'i·man'dar) v,, n.
v. 1'0 alter a voting area so as to advance
unfairly the interests of on" political party.
n. The act or result of gerrymandering.
Etymology: Gerrymander was formed from
the name Gerry + (sala)mander, from the
n.
salamander shape of a voting district in
Massachusetts carved out for political
advantage while Elbridge Gerry (1744-1814)
was governor.
the
ges·tate (jes/tat) v. ges,lal·ed, ges,tat.ing
which
1 To carry unborn young in the uterus until
birth: A mouse gestates its 'young for only
nineteen dUYB. 2 '1'0 develop gradually in the
2
mind: to gestate new ways of sol17inll a problem.
-ges·ta'llon n'.
Syn. 2 ponder, consider, speculate.
ges·tic·u·!ate (jes·tik'ya.lat) v. ges·tic.u·lat·ed,
ges.(ic,u.lal.ing
'1'0 make emphatic or expressive gestures: lie
U'(LS unable to sail the simplest thing without
uesticulating.-ges.tic/u:la'tjon n.
Syn. gesture, signal, pantomime.
ges·ture (jes/ char) 71.; v. ges·lured, ges·tur.jng
n. , A bodily motion, as of the hands, head,
etc., made while speaking in order to empha­
size or express some idea or emotion: A nod is
6~O
gibbet
a gesture meaning "-yes." 2 Something done or
said as a mere formality or for an effect:
Because he was broke, everllone knew his offer
to pay the tab was a mere gesture.
v. 1 '1'0 make gestures: gesturing that his
mouth was fllll and that he could not answer.
2 To express by gestures: He gestured to me
to sit down.
gew·gaw (gyoo/go) n.
A small, ornamental article of little value;
trinket: gewgaws from the ten-cent store,
A natural hot spring from which jets of
steam, hot water, or mud are ejected at
intervals in a founlainlilw column: the
geysers at Yellowstone National Park.
ghasl·ly (gast/le or gast'Hl) adj. ghast.li·er,
ghast.li·esl
1 Horrible; terrifying: the glwst!lI siyltt of a
battlefield strewn with corpses. 2 Deathlike in
appearance; pale; The uneomwioHs 1U(ut
looked ghastly. 3 Informal Very bad or un­
pleasant: a ghastly, Ol'crlll sentimental
pailltiilg.-ghast'Jj·ness n.
Syn. 1 fearful, gruesome, appalling. 2 wan,
blanched, ashen. 3 tasteless, insipid, tawdry.
ghet·to (get'o) n" ghet.tos pI.
members of some minority group or by very
poor people: II arlem is a ghetto of Now Yark,
ghoul (gool) n.
1 A person who robs graves. 2 In llIoslem
legend An evil spirit who robs graves and
preys on corpses. 3 A person who takes
pleasure in revolting things or practices.­
ghoul/ish adj., ghoul/ish.ness n.
gib·bcr (jib'ar or gib'ar) v.. 11.
V. 1'0 talk rapidly and incoherently; jabb"r:
The streets secmed full of nw(t people clucking
and giubcrillU to litemst:/ves.
n. Rapid or unintelligible talk: tI,,; gibber of a
toothless old man.
Syn. v. babble. prattle, chatter. gabble.
gabble, palaver. babble, twacl,Ue. nonsense.
gib·bcr·ish ( jib'"rish or gib'"r·ish) >I.
I Hapid, inarticulate, or foolish talk:
gibberish of an idiot. 2 Needlessly ditIicult or
obscure language: the gibberish in
certain soci"l scien!"i.ts communicate wilh one
unother.
Syn. 1 chatler, gabble. gibber, prattl".
jargon, argl)t, gobbledygook.
gib·bet (jib/it) n.; ". gill.bel.ed or gib.bet.ted,
gib.bet·ing or gib.bet·ting
n, An upright timber with a ero:;spiece
projecLing from its Lop, upon which criminals
were formerly hanged or their corpses db­
played to the public.
v. ) 1'0 execute on a gibbet. 2 To expose to
public scorn: The innocent 'Wife and children
of the murderer were slandered and gibbeted by
the townspeople.
Syn. n. gallows, scaffold. v. 1 hang. 2 pillory,
persecute.
~
~
~
~
~ gibbon gnarled
~
~
gib.bon (gib'an) n. Etymology: Both glt(diolus and gladiator go
A slender, long-armed anthropoid ape that back to the Lalin word yladius, meaning
lives in trees and is found in Asia and the sword.
~ East Indies.
gibe (jIb) v. gibed, gib.ing; n.
glaze (gliiz) v. glazed, glaz·ing; JL
v. I To cover with a glossy, glasslike coating:

~
v. To utter jeers or make derisive remarks; (( ~!azed doughnut. 2 To overspread with a
taunt: gibing at him for his laziness. thm, glassy film: The alcoholic's eyes were
n. A derisive remark; jeer: The child tried /0 glazed. 3 To fit with glass panes: to glaze a
~ ignore the gibes oj the older boys.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled

window.
n. I A thin, smooth, glossy or glasslike

~
jibe, but gibe is preferred.
coating: an icy glaze on the sidewalk. 2 A
Syn. v. mock, ridicule, laugh at. n. taunt,
substance used for coating Bomething: Egg
derision, sarcasm.
white is a glaze for foods.
~ gib.let (jib'lit) n.
Usually pl. Any of the parts of a fowl that
gla.zier (glii'zhar) n.
1 A person who fits windows, doors, etc., with
panes of glass. 2 A person who applies glaze
~
are usually cooked separately, as the heart,
liver, and gizzard: gravy made with chopped to pottery.
giblets. glean (glen) v.
~ gill (gil for dej. 1, jil for dej. 2) n.
1 The organ used by fishes and some other
1'1'0 gather the leavings from a field after the
crop has been reaped: tv gleallw}'wt. 2 To
~ animals for breathing under water: Gills collect facts, elc., by patient effort: lIe tOW bed
absorb oxygen jrom the surrounding water and the files and gleaned 8vme aseful il<for mation.
give out carbon dioxide as waste. 2 A liquid -glean'er, glean'ing 11.

~ measure equal to one-fourth pint: Four gills

make a pint, and eight gills make a quart.
Syn. 1 harvest, pick, reap. 2 collect, cull,

gather, accumulate.

~ gil.ly.ftow.er Oil'e·flou'ar) n. glib (glib) adj. glib·ber, glib·best

lOne of various plants of the mustard Smooth-tongued but shallow or insincere: a
family. 2 A plant of the pink family, as the glib politician, full oj simplistic solutions for

..~ clove pink. 3 A variety of apple. . cOllLplex prublems.-glib'ly adv., glib'ness n.

Spelling tip: This word is also spelled giIli­ gloat (glot) v.
~~ jlower. To experience a strong, suifish, and often
gim.crack (jim'krak) n., adj. malicious or evil delight: lie glvuted over Ids
n. A cheap, showy knickknack: a souvenir
rival's bad luck.

""~
Etymology: From an Old l\'CJrbC word glolta

I~._~

stand selling 1!scless gimcracks.

adj. Cheap and flimsy or gaudy: gimcrack

souvenirs.

meaning to grin.
glob·u·lar (glob'Yil·ivr) adj.
Syn. n. trinket, trifle, bauble. gewgaw. adj.
1 Round like a sphere: a globular drop of
showy, worthless, trashy, sleazy.
litJuid. 2 Worhlwide: globular conjiicJ.
~ Ani. adj. substantial, well-made, valuable.

gim·let (gim'lit) n.
Etymology: Glubular goes back to the Latin
word for ball, globus.
Syn. 1 spherical. 2 global.
~
A small, sharp tool with a cross handle and·
a pointed, spiral tip for boring holes. glo8.sa·ry (glos/a·re) n., glos.sa.rics pI.
Syn. auger. A list of technical, obscure, or foreign words
'_4; gin.gi·vi·tis (jin'j,,·vi'tis) n.
used in a book or field. along with their
Inflammation of the gums.
definitions: The English textbook contained a
glossary of literary terms.
f~ gist (jist) n. Syn. It!xicon. vocabulary.

The main idea or essential part: You may not glut (glut) v. glut·led, glutting; 11.

grasp every detail, but do you understand the

'3!!t gist of my argument?
v. 1 To stuff full of food: She glutted ltendj

with pie. 2 To supply with an excess of any­

Syn. essence, substance, pith. thing; to glut Ihe market willi glamol<T stocb.

gl a·cial (gla'Bhu1) adj. n. An excessive supply: (/ glut of toma/ves at

I Of, pertainin~ to, or marked by the the end of summer.

presence of glaCIers: a vlacial formation. 2 Syn. v. 1 gorge, satiate. 2 flood, deluge,

Freezingly cold or chilhngly unfriendly: a swamp. 11. oversupply, plethora, super­

glacial u'ind; a glacial s(are.~·gla'cial.ly adv. abundance.

Syn.2 icy, frigid, frosly, wintry. Ani. v. I starv0. It. shol'la;;e, ,;",u'city.

gla·der (gW.'shar) 11. glut·ton.ous (g]ut'n'0s) adj.

A great field of ice or packed snow that
slowly moves down through valleys or
spreads across land until it melts in warmer
regions or breaks off in the sea to form
icebergs.
glad·i·o·lus (glad'i!·ij'las) n., glad.i.o.lus.es or
glad.j.o.Jj (glad'iH/ll) pI.
A plant of the iris family, having sword­
shaped leaves and spikes of colored flowers.
Greedy, especially in eating: a gluttonous
iilJpetite.-··glut'toll, glut'ton.y 11.
Syn. voracious, rapacious, ravenous.
Ant. sparing, temperal<l, abHie.mious.
gnarled ( narld) adj.
Knotty and twisted: (( lligltlnUlre IUlIdscape of
stunted and gnarled Irees; the gnarled, work­
hardened hands uf an old f<lrnlCr.
Spelling tip: Remember lhe silenl g.

611
gnaw
gnaw (nil) v. gnawed. gnawed or gnawn (non).
gnaw.jng
1 To bite or eat away little by little: a dog
gHawing a bone. 2 To make something by
gnawing with sharp teeth: The rat gnawed a
hole in the wall. 3 To torment constantly;
Guilt was gnawing at his conscience.
gnome (nom) n.
In folklore A dwarf resembling a little old
man, who lives in a cave guarding hidden
treasure.
Spelling tip: The silent 9 should be in plain
view, although the sound is hidden.
gnu (niTh or nyiTh) n., gnus or gnu pI.
A South African antelope with an oxlike
head, curved horns, a mane, and a long tail.
Spelling tip: Gnu looks strange, while who is
perfectly familiar. Yet both of these rhyming
words start with a silent letter,
Syn. wildebeest.
goad (god) n., v.
n. I A pointed stick used to drive animals
forward; a goad for oxen. 2 Anything that
acts as a spur or motive force: Fear was Ihe
goad that drove him to greater efforts.
v. To prick or drive with or as with a goad:
word - that literally means shepherd's
Repressive measures goaded Ihe captives inlo
meat.
open rebellion.
gourd (gord or go6rd) n.
Syn. n. 1 prod. 2 stimulus, incentive.
1 The hard-shelled, inedible fruit of a plant
god·dess (god'is) n.
1 A female deity: Aihena was ihe Greek goddeiSs
of wi.qi/om. 2 A woman or girl of extra­
ordinary beauty: a film guddess.
gon·do·la (gon'da·la) n, _ gour·mand (goor'maud or goor.man ' ) n.
A long, narrow, flat-bottomed boat with high
points at either end, used on the canals of
Venice. It i" propelled with a single oar by
the gondolier, who stands in the stern.·-gon·
do·lief (gon'da·lir') n.
gorge (gerD n.; v. gorged, gorg.ing
n. A narrow, deep ravine, especially one with
a stream flowing through it.
v. '1'0 stuff oneself greedily with food; lie
gorged himself with rich desser/s.
Syn. n. canyon, gully, pass. v. cram, glut, sate.
gor·geous (ger'j<ls) adj.
I Dazzlingly colorful: gorgeous displays of the
northern lights. 2 Informal Perfectly beauti­
ful; gorgeous girls.-·gor'geous·ly adv.
Syn. 1 brilliant, splendid, magnificent. 2
lovely.
Ant. I colorless, faded, drab. 2 ugly, awful.
go.ril.!a (ga.rWa) n.
'l'he largest and most powerful of the man­
like apes, native to central Africa.
go·ry (gor'e) adj. go-doer, go·ri.est
I Covered or stained with thick, clotted
blood: a gory ax. 2 Characterized by blood­
shed or violence; all the gory details of the
crime.-gore n.
Syn. 1 bloody, bloodstained. 2 sanguinary.
gos·ling (goz'ling) n.
factors: a pressure gradient.
A young goose.
Syn. I grade, inclination. 2 slope.
gos·sa·mer (gos'a·mar) n., adj.
n. 1 Fine strands oispider's silk. 2 Any flimsy,
612
graduation
delicate material or substance. The costumes
for the prima ballerina were sheer gossamer.
adj. Filmy and delicate; lIer gossamer gOjvn
seemed to fiuat behind her.
Etymology: Gossamer comes from an English
word meaning "goose summer,'! or Indian
summer. That was the time of year for
plucking geese, when gauzy cobwebs, like
fine goose down, floateu in the air.
Syn. n. 1 cobwebs. 2 gauze, chiffon. adj. light,
gauzy, silken, diaphanous.
gouge (gouj) n.; v. gouged, goug.lug
n. 1 A chisel wiLll a scoop-shaped blade, used
for cutting or carving wood. 2 A groove such
as is made by a gouge.
v.l To cut or carve with a gouge, 2 To scoop,
force, or tear out: to gouge out an eye with the
thumb. 3 Informal '1'0 cheat by overcharging:
He gouged the public by scalpiny lickels 10 hit
plays.
Syn. v. 3 swindle, victimize, exploit.
gou·lash (giTh'ltishl n.
A stew maue with beef or veal and with
vegetables.
Etymology: Goulash comes from a Hungarian
of the gourd family, which also includes the
squash, pumpkin, watermelon, and cucum­
ber. 2 A utensil, as a ladle or dipper, made
from the dried shell of a gourd.
One who finds hearty enjoyment in eating.
gour.met (goor-ma') 11.
A connoisseur of food and drink who has
highly refined, discriminating tastes: a true
gourmet, concerned with all aspects of the
ritual of dining.
Etymology: Gourmet was originally an Old
French word meaning winetaster.
S)'n. gastronome, epicure.
gov·er.nor (guv'ilr-nar) n.
1 The elected chief executive of a state; the
Governor of Michigan. 2 An oflieial who
administers the affairs of a province,
territory, organization, etc.: a board of
governors. 3 A device for controlling the
speed of an engine, motor, etc.: the governor
of a sleam engine.
Usage: Governor is capitali~ed when used
as the title of a high-ranking government
ofllcial; GOI'ernor Rockefeller, ihe Governor
of New York. However, when not accom­
panied by the nallle of the official, oovernor
IS often spelkd with a small leU"r: the
go!'emor's 1lCWS evllfaenee.
gra.di·ent (gra'de'dnt) n.
I Degree of upward or downward slope: the
grailient of a road. 2 An inclille or ramp. 3 In
physics A rate of change in certain variable
grad·u·a·tion (graj'oo·ii'sh<.>n) n.
1 The act of receiving a diploma or degree
~
~
~
~
~ grammatically
~ upon completion of a course of study: high
~ 8chool graduation. 2 The ceremony of
presenting diplomas or degrees, to wear a cap
and gown for graduation. 3 A mark on a
~ measured scale: the graduations on a yard­
stick.-grad'u.ate v.
~ 8rn. I promotion. 2 commencement. 3
division.
gram.mat·i·cal·\y (gra,mat'i·ka·le) adt.
~
According to the rules of grammar: This
sentence is grammatical/'Y correct.-gram,
~ mat'j·cal adj., gralll.mat'j·cal·ness n.
gran·a·ry (gra'n"r·e or gran'ar·il) '11., gran·a·
~ ries pl.
A storehollse for threshed gruin.
gran.di·ose (gran'de,Os or gran'd!i-lis') adj.
~ I ImwesB!vely grand:, grandiose plano for th"
world's fmr. 2 PretentIOusly grand: 0 grandi­
~ ose oration full of empty rhetoric.
Syn. 1 magnificent, imposing, majestic. 2
pompous, inflated, high-flown.
~ gran·u·late (gran'ya,jlit) v. gran.u.!a(.ed,
gran·u,lat,ing
~ To form into grains; make or become
granular: granulaled sugar .--~grantu·la'tion n.
~ graph·ic (gral'ik) adj.
1 Giving an exact picture; describing in full
detail: a graphic r"lwrl {,j Ihe crime. 2 Of
~ having to do with, or illustrated by graphs
diagrams. 3 Having to do with, made up of,
0;
~ or c!,pressed b~ writin~: gra1!hi~ signs. 4 Of,
havmg to do WIth, or hke pamtmg, drawing
engraving, etc.; making his living ia Ih;
~ graphic arls'--l:!rllph'j.caHy adv.
Syn. 1 vivid, pictorial, picturesque.
~ grate·ful (grat'fal) adj.
I Feeling or expressing gratitude: a graleful
look. 2 Giving pleasure: the gra/eIlIl rdipf of
~ an air-conditioned room on a hot summer day.
Syn. 1 thankful, appreciative. 2 agreeable
welcome, pleasing. ' Syn. 1 distressing, oppressive. 2 serious
~ Ant. I ungrateful, unthankful, unapprecia­
tive. 2 disagreeable, unwelcome, unpleasant.
I!ra·tis (grll.'tis or grat'is) adv., odj.
'adp. Wlthout payment: The orphall8were
allower/ illio the theater gratis,
adj. Free of charge: The gratis meal servcd by
the Salvatiorl .4rmy.
gra·tu·j·tous (gra.t(y)60 t a,tas) adj.
1 Given or accepted without requirement of
payment or return; gratis; free: a gratuitous
Itcket t~. a Broadway show. 2 Lacking cause
or JusllflcatlOn: a gra/mlous 8nub.~- gra,tu'i,
tous.ly adv., gra.tu'i.!ous·ness 11.
Syn. 2 uncalled-for, unwarranted, needless.
~rcns·y. (gre's1! or gre'ze) udj. grells.i·Cl'.
greas·l·cst·
J Smeared or Bpotted with grease: a greasy
apron. 2 Containing much grease or fat:
applying a greasy ointment. 3 Appearing or
feeling like grease: the greasy surface of the
wet rocks.
8yn. I staill<;<l, grimy, dirty. 2 oily, fatty.
3 shppery, sllek.
gre.gar·j·ous (gri-!s;ar'e.as) adj.
I Always aSSOCiating with others, as in
grotesque
flocks, herds, or groups. 2 Enjoying or
seeking the company of others: gregarious
teen-ager8 always ,vilh their friends.
Syn. 2 sociable, friendly, chummy,
gren.a·dier (gren/a·di!") n.
I In former times, a soldier assigned to throw
grenades. 2 A member of a specially consti­
tuted COl'pS or regiment, as the British
Grenadier Guards.
grief (gre£) n,
1 Deep sorrow or mental distress: his grief
over the loss of his w'ife, 2 A cause of acute
sorruw.
Usage: The idiom to come to grief meallS to
meet with disaster or end badly: ./ar-crossed
lovers, doomed to come 10 grief.
Spelling Ii,,: Hememher i he fore c.
Syn. I anguish, woc, bearl,wilt'. 2 ulllictioll
(rial, tribulation. '
Ant. I happiness, gladness.
griev.ance (\ire'vdns) n.
A real or lmaginary wrong regarded as a
caUse for complaint or resentment: The
slrikers submitted a long liot of gricvmwes.
Byn. dissatisfaction, injustice.
Ant. satisfaction.
grieve (grev) v. grieved, griev.ing
I To feel or ,n,ffer grid: The Il'i<ioi/!('r griCl'cd
for his wife. 2 To cause sorruw: lIer ingrati­
tude grieves 1111.
Syn. 1 mourn, sorrow, lament. 2 sadden, hurt,
wound, trouble,
AnI. I rejoice, exult. 2 comfort, gllul,len.
gricv,ouB (gre'v.)s) adj.
I . Causing grief, sorrow, ur misfortune: a
grievous sitlwtion. 2 Deserving severe punish­
ment or cellsure: a gric1'OUS offense. 3 Ex­
IJfesBing grief or sorrow: {l gr'id'UH:i cry. 4
Causing pain or physical nuJTcring: a grievous
wou/ld,-, griev'ous·ly ade., gciev'ous.ness 1/,
grave. 3 anguished, tortured. 4 s~vere, acute:
:\l1t. 1 happy, cheering. 2 trivial, minor. 3
Joyful, exultant.
gri.mace (grhmis' or grim'us) 11.; •• gri,maced,
gri.mae,ing
!I. A !1istorled facial expression, usually.
mdlCatIVe of pam, annoyance, disgu~t etc.
v. To distort the fealures; make faces.'
gris·iy (griz'le) adj, gris·li·er, gris·Jj,esl
Inspiring lear or horror; macahre; grue­
some.
Usage: Don'I confuse grisly with grizzly or
gristly, o;omell,ing yrisly mal,,,s nne afraid: "
grisly u1wst "tory. That whic:h is urizziy is gmy
or ,strellked with gray, as hair 01' Leards.
9nst!!J (gns'le) pet'lain, to yrislle, the
Inedible cartilage in meat.
gris·(le (grist.)l) n.
A tongh, elastic tissue hound in meat'
carWage.-- gris'liy adj. '
griz·zly (gri2'le) adj., griz·zli·er, griz.zli'esl· 11
adj, Grayish. '
n. A large, brownish or grayish loear.
gro·tesque ( gro,tesk') adj.
Distorted, ugly, or made up of elements that
613
grotto
do not properly belong together: the grotesque
guess (ges) v., n.
ll!akellp of I3ori~ Karloff.-gro.lesque'ly ad!'.,
v. 1 To form a judgment or opinion on un­
gro.lesque'ncss 11.
certain or incomplete knowledge: to V"CSS
Syn. fantastic, unnatural, misshapen, de­
somevnets weight-. 2 To arrive at a correct
formed.
answer in this way: to gHCSS the 1/umber of
grot·to (grot'B) II., gro(·tocs or grot.tos pl.
1 A cave. 2 An artificial cavelike structure as
for a recreational retreat, shrine, etc. ' n. An opinion, answer, etc., arrived at by
grov.el (gruv'al or grov'al) v. grov.eled or
groy.eUed, groy·el·ing or groy.el.ling
1 To lie prostrate or crawl face downward,
as in humility 01' fear. 2 To behave in an
excessively humble or submissive way,
usually out of fear or to curry favor: "
terrified recruit groveling before tlw sergeant.
Syn. 2 truckle, fawn, toady.
gru·el (gr60'al) n.
A semiliquid food made hy boiling cereal in
water or milk.
gru.el·ing or gru·e!·ling (groo'"I·illg) adj.
So trying or tiring as to cause strain or
exhaustion: a gru"li1lg murchill moulltailHH<s
te/rain.
Syn. taxing, severe) arduous.
grue·some (gro<,'sam) adj,
Causing ,Iisgust or fright: a graphic war
mOl'ie 'with grueso /lW scenes.-- gru 'sonlc·ness n.
Syn. l'epulsivc, frightful. di,;gustillg.
guar·an·tee (gar/on·te') 1I.;V. guar.an.leed,
guar.an.lee·ing
n. 1 A pledge or promise that something will
meet stated specifications or that a specified
act will be l"erformed or eont illued. 2 Some­
thing that assures or ::;(:cn1B lo assure 11
specilied condition or outcome: Dedication
is llO gl/{lrall/cD of ;lucc,'ssill a jt'Hchi)!~ career.
~. To assume or accept responsibility for: to
guaranlee payment vf a debt.
guar·an·ty (gar'on·te) n., guar·an·ties pi.
1 A pledge or promise to be responsible for
the contraCl. debt, or duty of another in case
(if his default or mitlcarriage. 2 Something
given or taken as security to insure that such
a pledg!: vI' promise will be carried out.
guard.j.an (~iir'de-en) 11., adj.
n. 1 A per~on who guards or watches over for
safekeeping, preservation, confinement, etc.:
tile guar<lilln" of justiICf'. 2 A I",r",n who 1M
legally assigned to eal'C lor someone who i.
young 01' incompetent to Cllre for 11im3el!.
adj. Keeping '~uard; protecting: (I -gl/unli""
0 71 9<1.
Syn. 1 guard, eustodian, trw.;Lee.
f'U· ber·na·(o·ri·al (gOi)'h"r- noJ tor'e-,,!) adj.
Of 01' having to do with a governor or the
office of govurnor: the gubcrlw/"rial camli­
daicd.
guer.ril·la (",,-ril',,) n., wlj_
11. One of a band uf tighter" that is Hot part
of a regular army. Guerrillas engage in
sabotage and surprise raids, often in the rellr
of the ellemy; partisall.
adj: O~ or having to do with guerrillas or
their kmd of warfare: t"keuver of the villlloe by
II guerrillu band.
Spelling tip: Also spelled ~/icriUa.
614
gypsum
marbles ill " jar. 3 To suppose: 1 gw'ss 1{'C'1l
gel lltere 01/ time.
guessing.
guf.l'aw (gil-fo / ) 11., v.
11. A loud burst of boislerous laughter.
v. To utter such laughter.
guile (gil) 11.
Treacheroug eUIlHing or craft: a jJIT,;O'H ·who
seemed honest but was really ful[ of guile.
Syn. deceit, slyness, trickery.
Ant. honesty, guilelessness, naivete.
guile·less (gll'Jis) adj.
.B~ree froln ireacheroulS cunning ur cl'aft.­
guilc'less.}y wll'.. guile'less.ness ll.
Syn. innocent, sincere, candie\.
Ant. insincere, crafty, cUllning.
guil·lo.tine (giJ'J-ten or ~(j'''·ten 11.; gil'".tell' or
gil',,-Uln v.) n.; v. gui!.!o·(ined, lluil·lo·(in.;ng
11. The instrument of capital Pllnishment in
:France, consisting of a weighted blade i hat
slides down bel ween twu vertical guides and
beheads the victim.
v. To behead with the gllillotilw.
guise (giz) n.
1 Style or form of dress; garb: lie appeared
in the gtti," of (j pirate. 2 Misleading uIJpear­
anee; pretense; iFe tiCl'er e:rpre/("d tli,,[ 81«:h
bdrflua/ would I"k" Ihe gui,,,, of frinll/'hip.
I:)Y1l. 1 costume. 2 semblance, aspeet.
gul-li·hle (gul'J·bul) wlj.
Easily cheated or fooled: a gullible newcomer
10 the citU.
Syn. unsophi3ticateu illZ:~Iwrit.:!)l.:ed1 trust­
J
ing.
Ant. (\ishdievillg, distrustful, sophisticated.
gUll.wale (gull'"I) n.
The upper edge of the side of " buat or ship.
gus.(a·to·ry (gus'to·LOr'e) adj.
Of or having to do with the sense of taste or
the act of tasting: the gustatory ddighis ill a
bakery.
gus·to (gus'lO) ,I.
Kcell enjoyment 01' enthusiaslll: 111' drank
lVith Ollslo.
Syn. zest, relish, delight.
gut·tnr·al (gut'vr-"l) adj.
1 [[<.Iving a harsh or mllfllcd gmtill;; quality,
as soundb prodnced in the titrout: Germall is
cutlsidered (l oulterllll""guage. 2 Formed with
the back of the tongue touching or near the
soH palate: 'l'he "gfl in "{Jou is a galieral
SOUl/d.
gYJn.na.sj·tnn (jiHl.nU'z.G'dJn) H.• gyul-na<.=;i.
ums or gym.na·si·a (jim·nu'ze-a) 1'1.
A building or room equipped for certuin
athletic activities or contests.
gyp,sum (jip'si7m) II.
A mineral found in maf>sive or ~~ranulal~
form, used to mUlw plaster of Paris, as a
fertilizer, etc.
gyrate huuul:1omc

gy.rate (ii'rat) v. gy.rat.ed, gy·rat·ing naif (haf or haf) 11., halves (ha vz or hii vz) )l/,
To tnrn in a spiral or circular motion: Elvis adj., !Hlv.
Presley used Iv gyrate when he S(!l!g.~-gy'rll'­ 11. 1 Either of two equal or alwost equal
tor, gy.rll'tion Ii.
parts; also a quantity equal to such a part:
Syn. rotate, revolve, swirl, whirl.
Ill' handed 1/(e half hi, smllilcich. 2 [II
gy·ro·scope (ji'r".skop) 1/. HIJOri:-; Eil!H:!' of l wo (·qual pl'riods il1to
A heavy wheel, so mounted that when set to a game is uivided: We left o,fun. lhe
rotate al high speeds it resists all forces IidlI of Ihe foulball game.
tending to change the angular position of ils adj. 1 Ileillg; half of a illalHlard llwasurv­
axis of rota Lion. Gyroscopes are used in ment: a half vull()n. 2 Not cOlllpletl'; partial:
stabilizing and navigational devices, as toys, Iwlf rhl/dle.
a<lv. I To exllmt of u half or approxi­
etc.
mately JHIlf: bottle -was half full. 2 Very
nearly: He 'hi there half ,,,Icc/!. 31 nforttw/ '1\)
H any extent; al all (used with 1Iot): Your c.ifurls
lla·bil·i·menl (ha·bi\'''·llliJnt) 1'­
(lre nul Iwlj guod e!lough.
Usually pl. Clothing or attire: to bc tin,"scd i;, bal.)e·)u·jan (hal',,·10ij'Y0) in/erj.,
priestly habilinwnls. inkrj. Pmise ye the Lord!
Syn. garb, dress, garments, apparel, costume, 1t. A 111usieul C0I11po»ltioll whose tlwnw is one
clothes. of vraise based 011 the wurd Iwllelujah.
l<~tYIIHJlogy: l1ulldujuh
fwm
na·bit·u·e (h,,·bich'60·a or h,,·bieh'60.a') 11. llebr~w w()rd~, ludldu,

A perSOll whu often goes to a specific

restaurant) dub) place of aI11ust..'lnent, etc,: and yuh, Jehovah.
the habit!!es of Ihe neighborhood lat'ern. hal·lowed (lml/otl;id
1 lIIade holy;
back·le (hat'"l) n. /'ull(J!lICd yrtJllud . .2 l!{)IlOf{~d or
lOne uf tlw lung, llarruw ["a lilloI'" on the holy: hallowed O("ul$. IUlI'lowed·lles!> n.
neck of a roosler, pigeon, cte. 21'1, The hairs SYIl.l sacred, sancli!kd. blessed. 2 vCl1<-rated,
on the neck of a dog, cat, He., that rise in revered, worshiped. huly.
anger or [ear: .48 we approachd, the wateh­
dog's hackles rose (/ ml he g{O IVied. ha·lo ,bu'lo) ha·los ur Ita·loes /II.
Usage: IIuck!c i, often u~ed flguralively of I I it arl A or ring of Hght ~llrrounuillg
people, especially in tbt: idiom to make S01l(C'­ tIle hc:ad a (If.:ily or holy person: _4Ilud~
ont/s huck!e;) rise Uneanlng to nluke are tiepidcd willi IUlI"s. 2 A splendor
very angry): 'l'eas'ing always or f1urrounding a Iwr8un or thing held
hackles risco in rever~nee ur great uHte.eI11: Uw hulu lhal
HHrlOH/H1K lin: fW('i.:Uf IJhU~ici . . t.
hack·neyed (hak'necl) w/j. 3 A ltuniuou:3 arou!Hl the :jlltl ur rnuull.
Made commonvlace and dull by too frequent SYlI. 1 nimbus, aUf(,,,ic.
use: a haclcilCyu1 story of boy meels girl.
'"llaste IiwkcH wHsie" is a hackrwyed e;lVn.:!:>­ halve (hav vI' huv) 1'. halved, l",h-·ing
siv{t, 1 Tu divide lntu two e'lUall'arts: 10 1",11'1: un
aP111e. 2 To iUSSl'll by half; take away Ila\! of:
Syn. trite, stereotyped\. eommon.

Ant. origin,]l, fresh, viVId.

D1<riHg tit" Depr"""i"" our income <CllS Iwl,,",!'
Ha·des (ha/dez) n. hal· yard (hal'y,)J'(l) II.
Naillictil A rope lor hoi:;til1g ur lu\\t!ring a
I In Orer,/; my/}wloY!I The underground sail, a yard, or a flag.
kingdum of tlle dead, rule,d oyer by the god
Pluto. 2 111 for owl Hell. hand·ker·chid (Langfk,ir·dlifj n.
Syn. I underworld, inferno, helL A piece of duth, usually square, u":Ju for
Ant. heaven, paradise. wiping the nose or faee, or worn or carried as
an ornamental U"Ct,,;sory: She ",,;;3 li081((:S
hag·gard (ilag'"rd) adj. inslewl of hallclkaddefs.
Having a worn or gaunt look, as from
fatigue, worry, iIIl1es~, hunger, etc.: Iwuyard han·dle (hun/d,)li han·dled. hlill.dUng; II.
from (IIuidy ailll luss uf s/I'el'.·- hag'gard.iy v. I To toueh, move, or hold with the hUlld
ailL"J hagJ'gard.ness n. or hands: She 1"",,/1<'<1 II;.- cl.-lil:<I/(, ehi,,,, ",ith
Syn. tired, weary, exhaus\ud. ellre. 2 To lise the han,b upon or in tlw
Ant. fresh, rested. op(Uatioll of: fo cluy, ltLlIlllle a i:io.il­
boat. 3 'l'c) ha Vi: Eu handle
hug.glc (1wg'dl} t" hag·gted, ll(l~·gling; n. UIWI;j jii!ililciol ll'v;d, of or
v. To H.r~Ll(, or bargain in a lWtt y} mean
disc:uss: I" <i"lJj,r/ 1<'cl/. 5 To
es,ll'l'iaI\y ,dlUllt money ur terlll": 10
trade or drlqjKl(Jr(;: }l!lIr(lle
over ,wimporiallt details. 1flfln!j iicms {} To 1"I:.;sl)o[l(1 t~)
n. The aet of haggling: Tlwy buea,,,,! iw:"lrl'il manipulatiun TI,j, nif !I.uHllcs
in a hagule "fer who was to -pay the lunchnH! lcdl.
chuck.--llag'gler n_ 11. The part of an ubjeet to be gras,JeJ by lhe
hal,berd (hal'bard) n. hand: Ihe handle uf a frying plln.·- hand'ler 11.
A weapon used in the fiftee!llih and sixteenth hund·some (han'som) aJj. hand.som.",r,
centuries thai (!onsiste<i of an IIX and a speur hand·som-est
point eomhim:d, mounlr:d <IT! a long jJolc. 1 l)kut;;ing v,' wdl-pft..lportiulIi,:tl in aP1>l:ar­

615
hang hectic
anee, especi~lly in a manly or stately way: a elements that combine agreeably: the

handsome man; a handsome dOlvager queen.

harmonious decor oj a room. 2 Agreeing in

2 Considerable in quantity: a handsome

points of view, attitudes, feelings, etc.: a

donation to charity. 3 Gracious; generous:

harmonicll" Ja'mily group in which tllere was

a handsome gesture.-hand/some.ly adv.,

little dissemiun. 3 Pleasing to the ear:

!land/some.ness n.
harmonious voices.~har.mo'ni,ous.ly adv.,

Syn. 1 good-looking, attractive. 2 generous,

har·mo'ni·ous·ness 11.

liberal. 3 kindly, courteous.

Syn. 1 tasteful, artistic, attractive. 2 con­

Ant. I ugly, unattractive. 2 stingy, skimpy.

genial, compatible. 3 melodious, euphonious,

3 ignoble, selfish. .
tuneful.

hang (hang) v. hung or hanged, hanging; n. Ant_ 1 garish, harsh, cla~hing. 2 quarrelsome,

v. 1 To fasten or be supported from above: hostile. 3 discordant, grating.

Hang up your coat. 2 To droop: Hang your
head in shame. 3 To put to death or to die
by Husp(mding with a noose around the neck:
'l'he murderer is to !tang next week. 4 To cause
a jury to be unable to reach a decision. 5 To
pay close attention: The audience hUllg on the
~
speaker's 'Words. 6 To depend: His promotion
har·row (har'o) n., t'.
n. A farm impiement set with spikes or disks
for lcveling plowed gruund, breaking up ~
clods of earth, etc.
v. 1 To use a harruw upon: 10 harrow a corn
field. 2 To upset the mind or feelings of
someone; distress: harrowed by lack of mOl<CU

hangs on his boss's recommendation. and mounting debls.- har'row.er n., har'­ ~
n. I The way in which a thing hangs; drape: row.ing adj., hartrow.ing.ly ad".

the hang of a coat. 2 Informal A knack or way Syn_ v. 2 afliict, burden, agonize, lorment.

of doing something: The boy finally got the ~

hang of riding a bicycle.
har·ry (har/e) v. har·ried, har.ry·ing
I To lay waste, as in war or invasion; sack:
han· gar (hang'ar) n. 'j'lte Danes harried many 1,ar!s of Englllnd in e!!
A shelter or workshop for aircraft: illallY jet tlte Dark Ayes. 2 To hara,;s or per,ocute a per­

planes are too large to ellter a hangar. son: The big boys always hturu the smaller unes.
~
hap·less (hap'lis) adj. Syn. 1 pillage, plunder, ravage, devastate.

Ha ving no luck; unfortunate: a hapless child 2 annoy, torment, tease.

deserted by his parents.-hap'leas.ly adv., haunch (hol1ch or hanch) 1<. ~

hap/less.ness n.
Syn. unlucky, miserable, wretched.
Ant. lucky, favored, fortunate.
hap. pen (hap/an) v.
I To take place or occur: The battle happened
7111943. 2 To occur by chance rather than by
plan: We happened to meet. 3 To become of:
I In man and animals, the part of Lhe body
consisting of the upper thigh including the ~
hip and bUltock: Cats and dugs sit on their
haunches. 2 The back leg and loin of an
animal considered as meaL: " haunc/, of beef.
-haunched adj.
haul· boy (ho'boi or i)'boi) n.

What happened to him7·-hap'pen.ing n. An oboe.

har·ass (har/as or ha.ras') e. Etymology: lIalt/boy comes from two French

1 To trouble with cares, annoyances, etc.: words, haut meaning high (in tone) and bois,

harassed by too many demilnds upon his time. wood.

2 To worry or annoy an enemy by constant

lIau·leur (ho·tur') n.

raids and at tacks: Indian tribes harassed the

A haughty manner or altitude; arrogance:

homesteaders in the early West.-har'ass·er,

the hauteur of the newly ricll.
har/ass·ment n.
Syn. snobbishness, haughtiness.

Syn. 1 bother, plague, fatigue. 2 besiege,

Ant. meekness, modesty.

harry, terrorize.

Ant. l refresh, comfort, solace, soothe,

have·n'l (hav'ant) colttraction

har·bin.ger (har/bin.jar) n., v. Have not: IVe havell't heard from him.

n. A pef80n or thing that goes before and

Spelling tip: It! contractions, the apostrophe

announces the coming of something: The

takes the place of the mbsing lelter or

crocus is a harbinger of spring,

letters: does not b~c()mcs doesn't, cannot

~. To act as a harbinger; presage: The collapse

changes to can't, and J will iB written I'll.

oj the stock market harbingered the Great

haz.ard·ous (haz'ar·dcls) adj.

Depression of the 19.10s.

Full of or involving dunger, risk, loss, etc.: A

Syn. n. herald, precursor, forerunner. v.

tust pilol has (I ltuzard",," job. nall/blillg is a

herald, foretell, predict, foreshadow.

hazardolls way to make a living. haz'ard·ous.

har·le.quin (har'la·kwin) 11., adj. Iy ailv., lJaz'ard·tlus·ncss II.

'/I. 1 (Capital H) A pantomime charader Srn. dangerous. peri lOlls, ullBl.\fe.

traditionally dressed in parti-colored tights Ant. safe, secure, prudent.

and a mask, and having a shaved head. 2 A bec·tic (hek'tik) IIIlj.

clown or buffo,m. Characterized by haste, helter-skelter, excite­

adj. Parti-colored or motley, like the ment, or turmoil: a hectic day at the office

costume of a Harlequin: a harlequin sweater. trying to meet lasl-minute deadhlles.--hec/ti.

Syn. n. 2 jester, entertainer, fool, comedian, caI.ly adv.

har,mo.ni·ous ( har.mo'ne·os) </dj. Syn. feverish, fl'untic, frenzied.

l Made up of sounds, colors" or other Ant. slow, calm, tranquil, relaxed.

616
~
~
~
~
~ hedonism
~ be· don. ism (hed'n-iz'am) H.
I The philosophical doctrine that pleasure
~ is the only good and proper goal of moral
endeavor. 2 1'he self-mdulgent pursuit of
~ pleasure: tile hedonism oj the idle riclt.-he'­
don·Ist n .• he'don·is'tic adj., he'don·is'ti.cal·
Iyadv.
~
Syn.2 epicureanism, sensualism, debauchery.
Ant. 2 temperance, abstemiousness, self­
~ restraint.
heed·less (hed'lis) adj.
Not showing any attention; careless or
~
reckless: The driver was heedless oj local speed
..-.,
limils.-heed'less.ly adv., heed'less·ness n.
8yn. thoughtless, unmindful, negligent.
Ant. careful, cautious, attentive.
heU·.er (hef'er) n.
~ A young cow that has not yet produced a
calf.
~ Spelling tip: This is another exception to the
rule i before e except after c, or when
sounded as a.
~ height (hlt) n.
I The state or quality of being high or
~ relatively high: a tree of great height. 2 The
distance from the bottom to the top: What
is the /wigM oj the Washingtoll Monument? 3
~ Ojten pI. A lofty or high place: ThelllL'(;nt up
into the heights tv ski. 4 The distance above a
~ given level, as the ground or sea level;
altitude: a 1,ione flying at a height of ;10,000
feet. 5 The highest part of anything; summit
Of ap(~Jc till: }u:iyht of thi: lwcial ~w(tS{JU.
highest d"gl"';: tlw height oj l!uaWy.
hei·nous (ha'n"s) adj.
Extremely wicked or evil; uLrocious: Q
heinous Inurder.-hei'nous·ly udr)., hei'nous.
ness'll.
Syn. OtlioUH t iufarnout;), villaiuow!.
heir (ar) 'II.
A person who inherits rank or property from
someone who has died; also, allY person likely
to inherit sU(,h rank or property.
be!·i·coJl.lcr (I,Pl'~.koJl't"l) n.
A type of aircraft with eJ;lginc-dri ven hori­
zontal blades that rotate around a vertical
axis. Helicopters can rise and descend
vertically, hover, and fly in any direction.
he·li·o·trope (be'le·a·troP') n., adj.
n. I A plaIlL with white or purplish fragrant
flowers. 2 A soft, 'l"osy purple color.
--
adj. Soft, rosy purple: /U'livtropl! draperies.
-
be·!i·mn (he'le·am) n.
An odorless, nonfiammablu, ga"eOllS element
tbat is found chiefly in certain natural gas
deposilS, used to inflate balloons, dirigibles,
etc.
helm ( helm) n., v.
1J. I The steering apparaLus of a vessel,
especially the tiller or wheel. 2 Any place of
control or responsibility: II small company
with a brilliant admini"trtttor at the helm.
v. 'fo manage the helm of; steer or direct.
hem·or.rhage (hem'ar·ij) n.,v.
11. A heavy flow of blood f rom a blood
vessel, especially one that has ruptured.
v. '1'0 bleed copiously.
heroic
her.aId (her'ald) n., v.
n. I Any bearer of important news: A heralrl
brat/ght 100nl oj Ihe kiug's dfotlt. 2 Sumeone or
something' Lha L anllOUHceS or indica teg what
is to follow: 'The jirs/ crOCll" is II ;'"r"l<I of
spring.
v. 1'0 annouuee forcteH f or u:::lher in; FUnUfaij
j
thunder heralded the appro(!ching sluT'l,'.
Syn. rt. 1 messenger, announeer, courier.
2 harbinger, forerunner, precursor. v. pro­
claim, inf(Jrm, foreshadow.
ber.ald.ry (her'"l·dre) >t., her.ald.ries pI.
I 'rhe art or occupatioll that has to do wilh
coa ts of arms, including their de:;ign and
execution and the tracing of family gene­
alogies that bear upon the right to Ilse a coat
of arms. 2 A coat of arms or a collection of
such ensigns. 3 Formal ceremony and pag­
eantry. especially with a display of hCl'uldk
devices.
berb.age (ur'bij ur hilr'Lij) 11.
GrUBS or oLhr,r green field piants Hscd for
grazing anirnab.
her.bar·j·um (hGr·Lar'''·<lm) n., her.bar·i·ums
or her·bar·j·a (hen·barte·,,) pI.
1 A collection of dr·jed planls s"ielllillcally
arranged. 2 A roorn or buihliIlg eontaiuillg
!iu(;h a colleetiuH.
hcr·cll·le·an (hur·kyo"0'I""lIl or hur'kYJ·le'un)
adj. .
1 Possessing great stnmgLh, daring, per­
G 'rht: )-j{'V('f'UH~(:, el(:,: Ii JU:f('/tlcUH ldiw/'r r. 2. It(!­
{juiring gn:at slreugth, dadng, PCl':-.il!Vpr'Ulc(!,
eLe.: Rebuilciing Luwtou "fll'r World Ihn 1I
a herculean t'IBk. 3 (Capilalll) lIa ving to
11'(lS
do with Hercules: Herculean lllytlis.
Etymology: This word comes from Bercnleti,
11 twro of (daS!.lcal illylholo!{y !lull'd fol' lii~i
great tiLrcagth ant! endurance.
SYll. 1 rugged, enduring, steadfast. 2 ardu­
ous, rigoroHs.
her·e·sy (her ' ,).se) n., her·e·sies pI.
1 A heliof or opinion cOHl-rary 1i) Llw ;l('Ct'plt'u
doctrine of a chureh, politieal organization,
professional group, e(c.: The liberal's ide",;
were ltac$Y to the cunsl;r""t'il'l'willY oj his
party. 2 The holding of such a belie! or
opinion: ill be guilty oj hcr,,"y.
Syu. 2 Jisl"1.cnt, JlulH:onforlnilYJ :.H.:hi~lIl!
aposlasy, disbelief.
her·c·lic (iwr',Hik) II.
A person who holds belids or opiniolls Col1­
trary Lo the established (Illdrincs of his
religion, political party, proh.ssilln, ',lc.
Syn. schismatic. di:;scnter, noncllilformitii,
apostate, separalist, deserter.
lter·mel·ic (hur.mct'il<) adj.
hnpervlolls to gUt;es or JiqlliLls; Hlnighl: a
IlCr1llctic om/.- her.met'j.eul·ly atir.
hcr·mit·ugc (h',r'md.(ij) II.
1 The retreat or dwelling pia"", of a b"nnit.
2 Any secluded dwelling pluc".
Syn.2 cloister, hideaway, haven.
he·ro·ic (hi'l'o'ilq wlj.
I Of, having to (10 with, like, or >uiluble tu a
hero: a heroic ·warrior. 2 Relating Lo 01"
617
heroine
describing a hero or heroic deeds; epic:
heroic poelrll.-he.ro'j.cal.!y adv.
8yn. 1 brave, fearless, dauntless.
Ant. cowardly.
her·o·ine (her'ii·in) n.
1 A girl or woman of heroic character; the
female counterpart of a hero. 2 The principal
female character of a drama, fictional work,
~
etc.
her·on (her'an) n.
brance. obstruction.
Any of several wading birds, having a long
Ant. 1 cooperation, assistance, collaboration,
neck, a long slender bill, and long legs.
het·er.o·ge·ne·ous (het'ar·a·je'ne·as) adj.
, Made up of p'arts or elements that are not
alike, not umfied, not compatible, or not in
proportion: a' heterogeneous sociely.--het'er.
o.ge'nc.ous·ly adv., hCl'er.o.ge'ne-ous-ness
n.
Syn. dis"imilar, incongruous, various, mixed.
Ant. homogeneous, uniform, similar, com­
patible.
hi·a·tuB (hHi.'tas) n., hi·a·tus·es or hi·a.tus pl.
1 A gap or space from which something is
missing, as in a manuscript. 2 Any break or
interruption of continuity: During the sum­
mer hiatus on TV, reruns are often shown.
hi.ber.nal (hi·bilr'na\) udj.
~
Of or having to do with winter; wintry.
Covered with hair or bristles; hairy; shaggy:
hi·ber·nate (hi'bar·nat) v. hi.ber.nat.ed, hi·
~
ber.nat·ing
To pass the winter in a dormant state, as
certain animals do.--hi'bcr:na'tion n.
hie· cup (hik'ap) n.; v. hic.cuped or hie.cupped,
hie-cup·ing or hic.cup·ping
n. 1 An involuntary contraction of the Jia­
phragm, causing a sudden gasp of breath that
IS immediately checked by a spasm in the
throat. 2 pl. A condition ill which such
spasms are repeated.
v. To undergo such a spasm or spasms.
Spelling tip; This word is also spelled
hiccough.
hi·er·ar.chy (hi'a·rar'kil) n., hi·er.ar.chies pI.
1 Any group of persons or things arranged
in successive orders or classes, each of which
is subject to or dependent on the one above
it. 2 A group of clergymen arranged in this
way.
hi.er.o.glyph·ie (hi'ar·a·glif'ik or hi'ra·glif'ik) n.
1 A picture or symbol representing an object,
idea, or sound, as in the writing system of
the ancient Egyptians. 2 pI. A system of
writing using such pictures or'symbols. 3 pl.
Writing that (or some reason is difficult to
read: a druggist trying to decipher the hiero­
glyphics of a doctor.
hi.lar.i·ous (hi·llIr'e,as or hHar'e·;;s) adj.
Characterized by or providing exuberant,
noisy merriment: a hilarious play.--hi.lar'­
i.ous·ly adv., hi.lar'j·ous·ness n.
Syn. boisterous, mirthful, jolly.
hi·lar·j·ty (hHar',,·ti,; or hHar'a·tel n., hi·lar·i·
ties pl.
Very exuberant and noisy merriment: The
hilarity of the party 'Was contagious, and each
new guest was 8uddenly dissolved in laughter.
618
holocaust
hind·most (hind'mosU) adj.
Farthest from the front; most to the rear.
hin·drance (hin'drans) n.
1 The act of delaying or thwarting. 2 Some­
one 01' something that delays or thwarts:
Lack of ed"calionis a hindrance /0 advance­
ment.
Syn. 1 retardaLion, restriction, restraint,
prohibition. 2 obstacle, impediment, encum­
~
support. 2 aid, help, asset, contribution.
~
hip·po.pot·a·mus (hip/o·pot'o·mas) n., hip.po­
pot·a·mus·es· or hip.po.pot·a·mi (hip'a·pot'a·
mIl pI. ~
A large, plant-eating mammal having four
short legs and a thick-skinned, hairless body,
found in and near African rivers.
O!'!!!!.
Etymology: A hippopotamus is literally a
river horse, from the Greek hippos (horse) ~
and po/umos (river).
Idre·ling (hir'ling) 1/. • ~
A person who works for wages; especmlly,
olle who does something unpleasant or
reprehensible for no reason except the wages ~
he receives.
Syn. flunky, hack, mercenary.
hir·sute (hur'soot or hilr·soot') adj.
--bir'sute·ness n.
his·tri·on.ie (bis'tre·on'ik) adj.
1 Of or having to do with actors or acting; ~
histrionic ability that was more at home on
stage than btlfore the camera. 2 Overly dra­
matic; atfectedly emotional: her embarrassitlg
histrio" ie display at the wedding.
8yn. 1 dramatic, theatrical. 2 Ilulllboyant,
melodramatic.
hoarse (hoI'S) ailj.
Deep, harsh, and l'rating in sound, a.s the
voice of a person WIth a cold, the croal<lng of
(rogs, etc.-hoarse'ly adv., hoarse'ness n.
Syn. husky, gruff, throaty, raucous, guttural
hoar·y (hOr'e) adj. hoar.i·er, boar·i·est
1 White or whitish gray, as from age:
tired old men wilh hoary locks. 2 White or
whitish in color: hoary foam. 3 Very old,
and usually impressive or venerable: a
hoary Roman 1I!all. 4 So old, familiar, or used
as to be hackneyed: a hoary jokc.--hoar'i·
ness n.
Syn. 3 ancient, aged, antique. 4 trite, stale,
cliched.
hoi pol·loi (hoi' pa·loi')
An expression taken from the Greek, meaning
the common people. It is usually used in a
contemptuous way, and it is preceded by a
redundant the: a politician who, in private,
always referred to volers as "the Iwi polloi."
Syn. masses, herd, crowd, riffraff.
Ant. elite, society.
hol·o·eaust (hol',,·koBt) n.
Vast destruction. especially by llre, and
usually accompanied by great loss of life:
preliccupalion with the threat of nuclear
holocaust.
Syn. conflagration, devastation, ruin.
~
homespWl
~ home-spun (hom'spun') adj.
~ Plain and simple: homespun humor.
Syn. unsophisticated, humble.
~
Ant. pretentious, sophisticated, fancy.
horn.j.ly (horn/e·le) n., hom·i·lies pl.
1 A sermon based on a Biblical text. 2 A
~ solemn discourse or reproof, especially on
morals or conduct: a }lOmily on the subject of
~
modesty oj dress.
Syn. 2 lecture, talk.
ho.rno·ge·ne·ous (hO'ma.je'ne·as or hom'e·
~
.-,
iii'nll.as) ndj.
Having the same composition, structure, or
character throughout: a homogeneous society.
Syn. uniform, consistent, harmonious, regular.
Ant. heterogeneous, mixed.
~ hon·or·ar·j·urn (on'a·rih'e·am) n., hon·or·ar·i·
urns or hon.or.ar.j.a pI.
~ A payment given, as to a professional man,
for services rendered when law, custom, or
propriety forbid a set fee: an /W1!OrariU1F< for
~ the phys-idst's lengthy book review ill the
professiollal journal.
~ hoof (hoof or hoof) n., hoofs or hooves (hoovz
or hoovz) p/.
1 The horny ~heath encasing the fout 01
~ certain mammals, as horses and cattle. 2 The
entire foot of such an animal.
~ hors' d'oeuvre (or durv'; French or deE'vr')
An appetizer, as olives, celery, etc., generally
~
served before a meal.
ho·sier. y (ho'zhar·e) n.
Stockings and socks: a sture specializing ill
~ women's hosiery.
hos.pi.ta.ble (hos'pi·t,j·ba! or hos·pit'e·bal)
~ adJ.
1 Acting in a kind and generous manner to­
ward guests. 2 Expressing such a manner: a
~ hospitable !t,e/come.
Syn. gracious, warm, friendly, welcoming.
Ant. cold, reserved, aloof, standoftish.
~ hOB.tile (hos'tal; esp. British hos'tIl) adj.
Expressing enmity or characteristic of an
11~~ enemy; antagonistic: The blockade was viewed
a8 a hu.tile ad.-'-ho8.til'i.ty n.
;C~ hour (our) n.
1 A span of time equal to 1/24 of a day;
sixty minutes. 2 A definite lime of day: The
.~ hour is 6:15. 3 pI. A set period of time, as for
work: office hours.
Spelling tip: Remember the h in hour.
~
hov·el (huv/el or hov'al) n.
A small, wretched dwelling: The povcrty­
striken tenant farmers lived in hovels.
Syn. shack, hut, shanty.
Syn. agriculture.
Ant. palace, mansion.
hus·tlc (hwl'dl) I'. hus·tled, hus·tlillb(; n.
how·i(·zer (hou'it·sar) n.
A cannon with a barrel of medium length
that operates at a relatively high angle of
fire.
Etymology: Howitzer comes from a Dutch
word that goes back ultimately to the
Czechoslovakian houfuice, which means
'~catapult.tJ
hoy.den (hold'n) n.
A boisteruus or ill-mannered girl; tomboy:
hustle
As SOoll 08 the teacher left llle rOD Ii!, the girls
began to act like blue-jeaned hOJitlen$.
hub·bub (hub/lib) n.
A loud,. confused uproar, as of many voices:
We cOlild barely hear the sp<'<lker over the
hubbub of s/wllte(l 'lue.liuns.
Syn. clatter, clamor, to-do, raelect.
Ant. quiet, serenity, stillness, silence.
hu·mane (hyoo·miln'j adj.
Having 01' characterized by kindness,
sympathy, tellderness, etc.: a humane suda!
wurker who cared abuut each individual client.
Syn. compassionate, benevolent, goo<l .
Ant. cruel, callous, heartless.
llum·druIII (hum'drum') adj.
Tedious and dull: It hUiI1dru,,1 existence that
nearly dw!'c iIii!! mad.
Syn. uninteresting, boring, monotonous.
Ani. exciting, interesting, challenging.
hu·mor (hyoo'mar) n., v.
n. 1 The quality of anything that seems
funny or comical: deroid of hl/iilor. 2 The
ability to appreciate this quality. 3 A
temllOrary state of mind or feeling: 10 be in
gU(U humor.
v. '1'0 go along with tile moods or desin;; of
someone; indulge: We Iwmored the child and
sairl he WilS indeed verY,very strong, since it
pleased him to think so.-·bum'or.ous adj.
Syn. n. 3 monel, temperament, disposition.
hu·mus (hyJ(/mJ') II.
The black or brvwn substance of the soil,
formed by the decay of animal and vegetable
matter, and providing nutrition for plant life.
hun.gry ( hung'gl'e) «(lj. hung.ri·er, hung·ri·est
1 Desiring or in lleed of fuod. 2 Showing or
characterized by hunger or Cl'a ving: (l lean
and hungry look.
Syn. 1 starved, famished. 2 yearnillg,
desirous.
Ant. 1 satiated, sateJ, full, stufYcJ.
hur·ri·caue (hUr'a·kan) n.
A tropical cyclone, especially ooe originating
in the West Indies, having a wind velocity of
over 75 miles per hour.
hur·ried·ly (hilr'ed·le) adv.
In a rushed manner; hastily: fIe spoke so
hurriedly, in his rush to be off, that we could
scarcely understand Mm.
Syn. quickly, rapiJly, fast.
Ant. leisurely, unhurriedly, slow.
hus·band·ry (huz'b3n·dre) n.
The occupation or business of fanning;
handreds of acres devoted 10 husbandry.
v. 1 '1'0 push or force: to hustle all intruder
outside. 2 Informal '1'0 move 01' work with
great energy: The manager -implored hiB team
lu 1!1(.~tle.
n. Informal Bnergetic activity: 'I'he team
slwwed a lut oj hustle but not much skill.
Syn. v. 1 thrust, jostle, crowd. n. get-up-and­
go, vigor, vim, ",fiort.
Ant. v. 2 take it easy, malinger. 11. luzim'ss,
lethargy, lassitude.
619

hybrid
hy·brid (hl'brid) n.
An animal or plant produced by a male and
female of different species, varieties, or breeds: i·bis (I'bis) no, i·bis-eli or i·bis pi.
hybrid corn.-hy'brid.ism, hy·brid'i-ty n,
hy·dran.ge.a (hi,drlln'je-a or hl,dran'ja) n.
A tree or shrub having opposite leaves and
large clusters of white, blue, or pink flowers.
hy.drant (hl'drant) n,
i·d·de (r'si-kal) n.
A large, upright pipe connected to a water
A hanging, tapering rod of ice formed
main, used for firefighting.
freezing of drops of dripping water.
Syn. fireplug.
ic.ing (r'sing) n.
hy.dro.~en (hr'dra -jan) n.
The hghtest of the elements (symbol: H),
an odorless, colorless, flammable gas, oc­
curring in water and uniting chemically with
many elements.
hy:giene (hl'jlin) n.
The science dealing with the preservation of
health.
hymn (him) n., v.
11. A song of praise, adoration, thanksgiving,
etc., especially one sung at a religious service.
v. 'ro sing hymns or praise with hymns.
~
hy·per.crit.i.cal ( hi'par-krit'i-kal) adj.
Overly critical: An astute judge of movies, he
tended however to be hypercritical.
Syn. carping, faultfinding, captious.
hy·po.chon·dri·a (hl'p,)-kon'dre·a) n.
A persistent anxiety about one's health,
usually involving imagined symptoms of
~
illness.
hy·pO.Cl!oll.dri·uc (hl'p;j-kon'drl:J-ak) 11., ",Ij_
11. A person 'lUbject to hypocholldria.
~
adj. Pertaining to or affected with hypo­
chondria: a hypochondriac patient.
hy·poc·ri·sy (hi-pok'r".se) no, hy-poc.ri·sies pl.
The pmtCtlBC of having feelings or quulitwt<
that one really does not have: It was sheer
Itypo~risy to ,!ct surprised when she knew very
welt 1t lVas gomg to happen.
Syn. dissembling, insincerity, deceit, false­
concept; the ideal of a peaceful world.
ness.
Ant. honesty, straightforwardness, integrity.
perfection, or existing only in the mind as a
hyp·o.crite (hip'a-krit) n.
Due who practices hypocrisy: No hypocrite,
he practiced what he preached.
Syn. deceiver, dissembler.
hyp·o.crit·i· cal (hip'a-krit'a- kal) adj.
Pertaining to or characterized by hypocrisy:
a hypocritical attitude.
Syn. two-faced, insincere, deceitful.
Ant. honest, straightforward.
i·den·ti-t)' (l-den'ti.te) 11., j·dell·ti-ties pl.
hy·poth·e·sis (hi·poth'a-sis or hi·poth'a-sis) n.,
hy.poth·c.ses pI.
An idea tentatively as,mmcd to be true for
the sake of argument or of further study: the
hypothesis Ihat racial prejudice is increasell liy
segregated housing.
hy·po·thet·j·cnl (hi'pa·thet'i·ki;ll) adj.
Based on hypothesis or on Bupposition;
theoretical or imaginary: the hypothetical
situation of winning the sweepstakes.
Byn. conjectural, suppositive, academic.
Ant. actual.
620
~
~
ides
~
~
One of various wading birds that are related
to the heron. especially the sacred ibis t!!'!!!!h
venerated by the ancient Egyptians: The ibis
has a long bill that curves d01vnward. ~
by the
A smooth glaze of sugar, butter, egg whites, ~
etc., used as a coating for cakes.
Syn. frosting. ~
i·con (i'kon) n.
1 In the Eastern Orthodox Church, a pic­ ~
torial representation of Jesus Christ, the
Virgin Mary, or some other sacn;d figure, to
which veneration is offered; an icon of a saint. ~
2 A picture or other image of someone or
something; a painted icon.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled ikon ~
and eikon.
Syn. 2 representation.
i·con·o·c1ast (i·kon'a-klast) n. ,
One who attacks or ridicules conventional
or cherished beliefs or institutions as being
~
false or hnrmfu\: an iconoclast 'Who matie fun
of patriotism. ~
j·con·o·c1as·tic (I·kon'i;l-klas'tik) adj.
Characterized hy overt contempt for conven­
tional or cherished ideas, institutions, etc.:
an iconuclastic 'writer who ridit"'lt,lex lw.trlalism.
i-de· III (I-Je'"l or [-del') n., (/(/).
n. 1 A concept of what something would be
like if it were perfect: The ideal of complete­
ness is often symbulized by a snake with il~ la"il
e 4
in its ?nUl/tI.. 2 All "tll;"a! slandard or
principle: to live 't.o tu une's ideal". 3 A perlect ~
modol; an exomplar: His teacher is his ideal.
4 Something that exists only in the mind as a
adj. 1 Embodying a standard of absolute
c: "
~
concept of ahsolute perfection: the ide,,!
society. 2 Representing the best of its kind;
completely desirable: an idUtI husband.
Syn. adj. 1 model, perfect, utopian. 2 perfect,
excellen t, Lest.
i·dee fixe (li-da'leks') 1'-, i·dees fixes pI.
A fixed idea, as a delusion or obsession: an
idee fixe that he 1vas of royal blood.
t The fact of being a specific person or thing
and no other: fl is pas~port established his
identily. 2 The stale of being the same thing;
complete similarity or cotnl'lete union: the
identity of tlte handwriting in two leiters. 3 The
unity and self-awareness of the perootlality:
hi" scuse of identity.
Syn. 2 unity, sameness, oneness, correspond­
ence.
Ant. 2 difference, separateness.
ides (rdz) 11., Jil.
In the ancient Uornan calendar, th" lilteenth
day of March, May, July, and October and
~
~
~
~
~
idiosyncrasy
~
~
the thirteenth day o.f the other eight months:
Beluare the ides of March.
id·i·o·syn.cra·sy (id'!H;.sing'kra·se) 11., id.i.o·
.~ syn ·era .sles pl.
A habit, mannerism, reaction, etc., that i~
~ peculiar to an individual; especially, an odd,
atypical, o.r eccentric trait: an idiodyncr"SlJ
such as "sing a sundiai instead "f a clock.
~ Syn. quirk, IJeculiarity, eccentricity, abnor­
mality.
~ i.dle (jd'!) adj. i·dler, i·dlest; v. i·dled, i·dling
adj. 1 Not active or in operatiqn: Machinery
idle during a strike. 2 Lazy; avoiding work:
~ an idle rogH". 3 Having no value; ineffectual,
of no imponance, or llngrounded: an idle
~
threat; idle chatter.
v. 1 To spend time doing nothing or engaged
in pointless, trivial activities: to spend a
~ morning idling. 2 To wander or loiter lazily
and aimlessly: to idle along the ri.erbank. 3 To
~
operate without power at reduced speed: to
idle a motor.
Spelling tip: Be carelul to difIerentiate
~ between idle, idyl, and idol (all pronounced
the same).
~ i·dol (fd'l) n.
1 An image or object representing or con­
sidered to be a god and worshiped as having
~ divine powers: to pay homage to a huge golden
...
idol representing the sun god. 2 Someone who
is loved or admired to all excessive degree;
~ an object of infatuation: She is his idol.
Syn. 1 fetish. 2 goddess, god.
~~ i.dal·a·try (j·dol'a·tre) n., i·dol·a.tries pI.
1 The worship of idols: the idolatry of primi­
-':-:;;, tive people who pray to a carved statue. 2 Ex­
ceSSIve or undIscerning admiration or rev­
erence; blind infatuation: She adores him
~ 10 the point of idolatry.
Syn. 1 idolism. 2 hero worship, infatuation.
~
i·dyl Od'l) n.
1 A short poem or prose piece uepicting
simple and pleasant scenes of pastoral,
;;""'11-'9 country, or domestic life. 2 Any scene or
event whose simple charm might inspire an
idyL-i.dyl'jc ad}.
s~~ Spelling tip: 'fhis word may also be spelled
idyll.
r~ i.e. (l'e')
The abhreviation for the Latin term id est,
~
meaning "that is": llis rwtionality is kmer­
ican, i.e., he is a citizen of the U.S.
ig.no.ble (ig·no'uill) adj.
~ Dishonorable and contemptihle; base: an
ignoble betmyal of his best friend.
Syn. mean, shameful, vile, despicable.
Ant. noble, honorable, high-minded.
ig·no.min.i.ous (ig'na.min'e·as) adj.
Involving dishono r or disgrace; dishonorable,
despkable, or humiliating: an illnOmi1!ioll3
defeat.
Syn. shameful, degrading.
Ant. honorable, dignified, illustrious.
ig.no·min.y (ig'na·min/e) n., ig·nQ·min.ies pI.
Public disgrace and dishonor: the ignominy of
losing a war to a tiny, ill·equipped army.
ill ustrious
Syn. shame, humiliation, stigma.
Ant. honor, glory, distinction.
ig.no·ra.rnus (ig/na·ra'mas or ig/na·ram'as) II.,
ig·no.ra·mus·es pl.
An ignorant person: 11,,'., sitch all ignoramus
he doesn't even know /h(/t China's in A3ia.
Syn. dolt, dune", dope.
Ant. genius, prodigy, scholar.
ig.no·l'ant (ig'nGr·ant) IIfij.
1 Having little or no learning or knowledge;
uneducated: an 'ignorant man 'Who had left
school afler Ihe fourth !lrm/':' 2 Lacking
information about; unaware of: /0 be iynor«nt
of a fact. 3 Indicating a lack of information:
an ignorant supers/ition.
Syn. 1 unlettered, unschooled, illiterate.
2 uninformed, Unaware. 3 naive.
Ant. 1 learned, educateLl. 2 informed, a ware.
j·gua·na (i·gwii'JlJ) n.
Any Of several tropical Amc,rican lizards
that sometimes attain a length uf six feet.
iI·leg·j.ble (i·lej';)·bal) adj.
Not capable of being read: un 'illegible scrawl.
-i\.leg'i.bly adv.
Spelling tip: Be careful and. don't cunfUilC
illegible (not legible) with ineligible (not
eligible) and unintelligible (not intelligible).
Syn. indecipherable, unreadable.
Ant. legible. readable, dedphera\Jle.
n·lie·it (i·lis'it) a<lj .
Not permitted Ly law, rule, or custom:
illicit traffic in dmg$; wlillidt l()ve aJf(!ir.~
il·lie'H.ly adv.
Spelling tip: Be careful and don't confuse
the adjective illicit (not lawful) with the verb
elicit (to draw or call forth).
Syn. iIIfrgal, unauthorizeLl, forbidden, im­
proper.
Ant. legal. proper, licit.
il·lit·er.a.cy (Hit'ar·i)·se) n., i1·Ji!·er·a.cies pl.
Lack of education, especially inability to
read and write: tlte Ividespreud illiteracy in
Asia.
Ant. literacy.
iI·lu·sion (i·I60'zhan)
1 A false. misleading, or overly optimistic
i(\t,a: to iU$e one's youtltful i!l"ai(nls. 2 A
deeei ving appearance or th" false impression
it gives: un o)ltical illusio1l.
Etymology: Illltsi()n is dr,ri ved from the
Latin verb ludere. meaning to play, mock, or
jeer.
Syn. 1 misconceptioll, ddu:;ioll. 2 mirage,
chimera.
Ant. 1 truth, writy.
n·lus·[ra·tive (i.lus'tri).tiv (lr il',).Slra'tiv) udj.
Serving to illustrate: all ilIi"lra!i,," diagram.
il·lus·{ra,(or (il'""Slrii.'ldr) !L.
All artist who does illustrations for Looks.
jI·lu8·[ri·ous (i·lus'tre·,)s) ad;'.
1 Very famous and highly distinguished: an
ilLuslriuus s/atcslll<w. 2 Bringing greatness or
glory: Tlte ]Juet saug oj il/u.strivII." <lceds.
Syn. 1 great, eminent, notable, renowned.
2 glorious, noble, brilliant, splendid.
Ant. I ordinary, undistinguished, ob~cur().
621
imagery impatient

im·age.ry (im'ij·re) n., im.age.ries pl. To come into a country or region of which

Images, especially word pictures or figures one is not a native in order to settle there;

of speech in poetry: the riel! imagery oJ his migrate.-im'mi.gra'tion, im'mi·grant n.

poetry. im·mi·nence (im'v·nans) n.

im.ag.j.nar.y (i.maj'a.nere) adj. The state or quality of being imminent;
Existing only in the imagination; unreal: an nearness; a driver unaware oj the imminence
imaginary creature suel! as a leprechaun. oj danger on the icy road. ~
Syn. fancied, fantastic, fictional.
Ant. distance, remoteness.
Ant. real, actual.
im.mi·i1ent (im'v·nant) adj. ~
im.ag.ine (i·maj'in) v. im.ag·ined, im.ag·in·ing About to happen: said c8pecially of danger

1 To form a mental picture or idea of: Try to or catastrophe; safety preparations against
~
imagine how a cave mall must have lived. 2 To the imminent hurricane.-im'mi.nent·ly adv.

suppose, guess, or conjecture: I imagine I'll SYIl. threatening, impending, coming, ap­

be able to go. proaching. I'!!!I.

Syn. 1 picture, visualize, conceive. 2 think,
Ant. remote, distant, far-off.
believe.

Ant. 2 doubt.

im.mo·late (im'a·lat) 11. im.mo·lat·ed, im·mo· ~

lat.ing
im.bibe (im·bib') v. im.bibed, im·bib.jng
1 '1'0 sacrifice, especially to kill as a sacrificial
1 To drink, especially to drink an alcoholic
victim: III prolesl against the war, the Viet­ ~
beverage: He imbibed too much ·whiskey. 2 '1'0
namese 1no1lk immolated himselJ. 2 '1'0 give up:

suck up as if drinking: The soil was imbibing

to immolate one's ambitiolls because oj a sense ~
the rain. 3 To absorb mentally: Scholars
oj duty.-im'mo.la'tion n.

imbibe learning.
Syn. 2 relinquish, renounce, forgo, abandon.

Syn. 1 quaff, swig. 2, 3 drink in, absorb, ~

im·mor·tal.ize {i·moT'tClHz) 11. Im.mor.lal·
ingest, soak up. ized, im.rnor,lal·lz·ing
im·bue (im·byOo') 11. lm.bued, im.bu.ing '1'0 give unending life or fame to; a rapturous ~
1 To pervade or permeate, as with ideals, poem that immortalized his beloved.-im·mor'­
emotions, etc.; to be imbued witl! the spirit oj tal·i·za'tion n. ~
de'mocracy. 2 'fo saturate, as with color or im·mune (i.myoon') adj.

moisture: to Boak clolh in a dye lt1lli! it is 1 Protected againsl a disease, poison, or the

imbued with color. like, as by inoculation; immune to typhoid

~
im·j·ta·tion (im'a·ta'shan) n., adj. Jever. 2 Not subject to, susceptible to, or

n. 1 The' act of copying or mimicking; his responsive to: immune to the criticisms oj his

imitation oj an orchestra conductor. 2 A copy; administration.

Tlte imitation was almost identical to the im·mu·ta·ble (i·myOo'tu·ba\) adj.

orillina!. Not capable of changing or being eilanr.ed: tlw

adJ. HesemuJing or made to resemble some­

immutable la IVS oj the universe.-im.mu ta.bil'­

thing superior: an imilation diamond.

j·ty, im.mu'ta·ble.ness n.; im.mu'ta·bly adv.

Syn. n. 1 mimicry, simulation, emulation.

Syn. unchanging, unalterable, invariable,

2 duplicate, facsimile, counterfeit. adj. mock,

permanent.

pseudo, sham, counterfeit, ersatz.

Ant. changeable, impermanent, variable,

Ant. n. 2 original, model. adj. real, genuine,

alterable,

original.

im·mac·u·late (i·mak'ya·lit) adj. im·passe {im'pas or im·pas') n.

1 Completely clean: With two maida, her A location or situation from which there

house was always immaculate. 2 Completely is or seCms to be no way out; Discussions

unsullied; without sin or blemish: an im­ between ma1lagement and labor reached an

maculate liJe. impasse and 'a strike was inevitable.

Syn. 1 spotless, spick-and-span. 2 stainless,

Syn. blind alley, deadlock, stalemate, dead

pure, untainted.
end, cul-de-sac.

Ant. 1 dirty, filthy. 2 stained, tainted,

im·pas·sive (im.pas'iv) adj.

defiled.
Not feeling or showing emotion; De Gaulle

im.me·di·ate·ly (i·me'de·it·le) adv. remained impassive in the midst oj nationwide

1 Without delay; instantly; Come home slrikes.-im.pas'sive.ly adv.; im,pas'sive.

immediately. 2 In close relation; with nothing ness, im'pas.siv'i,ty n.

between; Immediately beyond our yard is a Syn. unmoved, calm, dispas~ionate, uncon­

parking iol. cerned, insensitive.

Syn. 1 instantaneously, at once. 2 directly, Ant. emotional, demonstrative, excital.>ie,

proximately. sensitive, overwrought.

Ant. 1 later, belatedly. 2 far. im.pa.tient (im·pa'shent) adj,

1 Easily annoyed at delay, discomfort, etc.:

im·mense (i·mens') adj. impatient drivers in a traffic jam, blowing their

Extremely large; huge; an immense boulder. horns. 2 Showing a lack of patience: He dis­

Syn. mammoth, gigantic, enormous. missed their petition with all impatient

Ant. small, tiny, diminutive. gesture. 3 Restlessly eager: impatient Jar

im.lUi.grate (im'a·grat) v. im.mi·grat·ed, 1m· results. 4 Unwilling to tolerate; impatient oj

. mi.grat.ing . delall.-im.pa'tient.ly adv.

622
-::

~
~
~
~
impeach implement

~
Syn.1 irritable, fretful. 2 curt, abrupt. 3 avid,
im·per·vi·ous (im·pur've·as) adj.
anxious. 4 intolerant.
1 Incapable 01 being passed through, as by
Ant. I calm, resigned. 2 courteous, polite.
moisture or light rays; a coat impervious to
~ 3 apathetic, unconcerned. 4 tolerant, under­

standing.

rain. 2 Not open or receptive: It mind

irnperv·ious to reason ,~inl.pcr'vi.ous.nc:;s 'ti.

~ im·peach (im·p<!ch') v. Syn. I impeneuable, impermeahle, impass­

I 'fo accuse of doing wrong, especially to able. 2 unreceptive. ulll'espollsi I'e, unmovable.
formally charge II high public official with Ant. 1 perviolls, permeable. porous, penetra­
tfcs, crime or misdemeanor in office: President
Andrew Johnson wa" imp(;(1ched out Hoi
ble. 2 receptive, responsive.
im'pel.u,olls (im·pech'o<,.vs) adj.

~
convicted. 2 'l'o challenge or bring discredit
all, as for dishonesty, validity, etc.: to
impeach a witlless.~-im,pcach'menL n.
~ im·jlec.ca·ble (im-pek'a,b"l) adj.
I 'l'ending to act on sudden impulse anu with­
out foret.hought: all impcl1tons YOllllg 1IIall. 2
TI"sulting from sudden impulse: an impdllOlls

Free from error, fault, or flaw; lm impeccable

<le('i"io". il !vI Dving with vh)lcut force: an im­

pc/UO!!S wind.~-im.pct'u'Qus.ly «dv.; im-pel'­
u·ou,s·ncss, iln,pet'u.os'i.ty 'It.
~ dresser. -im·pec' ca·bly (H/V.

Syn. pe1'1ect, flawless, irreproachable, fault­

Syn. 1 impulsive, reckless, rash, carpless. 2
su(lden. spulllanc()us, precipitate, headlong.
less.

~ Ant. imperfect, uefective, marred.

im·pend·ing (im·pen'ding) adj.

3 furious, rushing, wild, intense.
Ant. 1, 2 cautious, wary, timid, deliberate.

~ 1 About to occur: Dark douds warned of the im·pe·lus (im'po·tds) n.

impclIdiHg snotus/orm. 2 Overhanging:im­ 1 'I'he force that sets a body in motion, or the

energy with which a budy moves. 2 Any

~
IJendinll cliffs. moving force: A,re r(1ist" ul1 impetus to belier

Syn. I imminent, threalening, coming,

approaching.
working h"bUs?

Syn. 2 stimulu:l, iucenlive, inlhwllce, ell­

~ Ant. 1 remote, di~tanl, far-olf.

im.per.cep·{j·ble (im'p<lr·sep'ta·b,,!) adj.

couragement.
im·pi·e.ly (im-jJl'e-te) n" im·pi-c·Lics 1'1.
~ So small, slight, subtle, or gradual a" to
escape nolice: a chonge imperccptible 10 lilt!
1 Lack of rpspect and reverence for those to
whcnn it. i~ duo or (~XfH:dc(l •• :;-;pe('inliy for God
naked e!1e.~ im'IH,r.cel,'li.hly wtv.
~
Of ;;acn~d thing:::;, 2 All impious net: :>JlOcknl (It
Spellin!l til': 'rile prefix in-, meaning "not," what she CU1l8idNC,/ Iii" unforgivaol" imp';cties
changes to im- be10re a p. Hence anything of 11u; hippies.
.~
"not perceptible" is imperceptible. Syn. 1 irrevel'ence, ungodliness, lllluutiful­

Syn. invisible, unuiscernible, unnoticeable. ness, disrespect. 2 sin~ offense, wrongdoing,

Ant. perceptible, apparent, uiscernible. tralu;gre;.;sion.

~ im·lle·ri.(}us (im·pir'e-"s) udj.

I Charaeterized by arrogance and command;
Ant. 1 ruverence, g(Juline:5::)! dulifull1es:3 ,

respect.

~
a petty o.tJidaZ who tried to compensafe for his
lack of tolent by an imperious manner, 2
Urgent, imperative: un imperio,,, nced,
~ 8yn. 1 dictatorial, overbearing, haughty,
despotic. 2 m;c"ssary, critical.
Ant. 1 submissive, yielding, humble. 2 ull­
~ necessary} intilgnifieant.
im·per·llw.a.Lle (im-pul"mc'il.b<ll) Ittlj.
C-Sj Not capable vi betHjl: passed through or
penetrated, as by a l1(~uid; an impermeuble
fabric.--jm.per'me.a,lJil j.ly 11.
--s, Syn. impervious, impenetrable, impassable.
Ant. permeaLle, porous,
im·pi·ollS (im'pe'Gs) adj.
Lacking in reverence or respect, as for God or
on0~S part:ntx; (;il'cn hi";:; total di;jintcrcst. in
religion, h.is behuvior ilL ihe church was 'Hot 130
much impiow, as ittst plain boori,h.-im'pi·
ous·ly adv" im'pi·olls.ness 11.
Syn. irrevl>rent, ungodly, uuullliful, uis­
respectful.
Ani. reverent, godly, dutiful, l'bl'l'dful.
im.p!a.ca.blc (irn-plii'kJ·bdl or im-phd,'v,Ldl)
adJ.
rrhat cannot be appeased 01' pacified: Hn im­
plac{(ble e1!e'lIy..~im'J:lalca,uil'i.ty, Im,pla'­

-J!t::;t im.per.ti·nent (im·pur'ta·n<lnt) adj. ca·ble·ncsll II.; illl-pla ea.bly wi",

1 Deliberat"ly uisrespedfui ur unmannerly: Syn. unrelenting, unforgiving, unappeatiable,

ail iml'erli1;cn/ lI'<1ilre85. 2 Not pertinent: a relentless.

remark thai was iml'crlillclIl to the coltverS!1­ Ant. placable, lenient, clement, yieluing,

lion.-.. im·per'tj.nent.Jy adv. forgi Vlllg.

Syn. 1 uncivil, impuulmt, fresh. 2 irrelevant, im.plc·menl (im'jJl,)·m0Ilt 'II., im'pj')'ment v.)
inapplicable, inappropriate. n., ll.
Ant. 1 civil, polite, mannerly. 2 relevant, n. A piece of equipment llHeu in SOlDe form of
applicable, appropriate. work or activity: :1 /lOe is an implement for
im·per·turb·l!·ble (im'par-tUr'b,,·b<ll) adj. renlol'ing'lL!Cctitj.
Incapable of being disturbed or agitated; v. 1 To provide with such equipment. 2 'I'u
She remained imperturbable even in the face of provide whatever is necessary to accomplish
disaster.-im'per.turb'a.bil'i.ly, im'per.turL'­
or earry s(lmething hlto effect; 10 implement a
a·ble·ness n.; im'per.turb'a.bly adv.
rdief prQ~ram." im'ple.men.ta'tion n.
Syn. calm, unshaken.
Syn. n. tool, instrument, utensil, device,
Ant. emotional, hystericaL
contl"ivance.

623

implicate
im·pli·cate (im'pla·kiH) v. im.pli.cat·ed, im·
. pU·cat.ing
To show or prove to be involved or concerned:
evidence implicating him in the bank robbery.
Syn. connect, associate, entangle.
im·pli·ca·tion (im'pla·ka'shan) n.
1 The act of involving: the mayor's implica­
tion of two top police officials in a narcotics
8candal. 2 The cond,ilion of being involved:
The police officers' implication in the scandal
brollght an end to their careers. 3 The act of
implying: Implication rather than accllsation
brought the witnes8 to the point of hysteria. 4
Something that is implied: The implicatiun
was that the witness was guilty of perjury.
Syn. 1, 2 involvement, entanglement, con­
nection. 3, 4 allusion, suggestion, inference.
im.plic.it (im·plis'it) adj.
1 Unreserved, absolute: implicit confidence.
2 Implied or understood, but not specifically
expressed: implicit agreement.-im.plic'it.ly
adv., im.plic'it.ness n.
Syn. 1 complete, unquestioning, positive.
2 tacit, inferred.
Ant. 1 limited, partial, moderate. 2 expressed,
spoken, written, formal.
im·piy (im·pH') v. im.plied, im.ply.ing
1 To involve necessarily as a conclusion,
circumstance, condition, effect, etc.: An
action implies an agent. 2 To indicate or
suggest without stating: He implied that his
employer was dishonest.
Usage: Imply and infer both mean to involve
as a necessary conclusion, and in this sense
they are often used interchangeably: An
effect implies a cause; an effect inf~r8 a cause.
Loosely, infer means to indicate or suggest
without stating, but in this sense imply has
1 The act of producing without previous
far better standing.
planning: the improvisation of jazz. 2 Some~
Syn. 1 infer, assume, presume. 2 hint,
thing produced without previous planning,
intimate, insinuate, suggest.
as a drama tic sketch: a comedian who could
im.por·tance (im.ptlr'tans) n.
1 Significance: the importance of the issue. 2
Prestige, authority, or standing: a man uf
80me impurtance in the bllsiness world.
Syn.l consequence, momentousness, weighti­
ness. 2 influence, rank, distinction.
Ant. 1, 2 unimportance, insignificance.
im.po·tent (im'pa.tent) adj.
I Without power, strength, or authority: The
deposed king was an impotent figurehead. 2 Sex­
ually incapable (said of males): an impotent
old man.-im'po.tence n., im'po·tent.ly adv.
Syn. 1 powerless, weak, helpless. 2 sterile.
Ant. 1 potent, powerful, strong. 2 polent.
im.preg.na·ble (i~.preg'll3.bal) adj.
I Too strong to be conquered or overcomc
when placed under attack: an impregnable
fortress; impregnable moral strength. 2 Capable
of being fertilized or filled (impregnated): an
impregnable egg.
Syn. 1 invincible, unconquerable, invulner­
name was omitted from the Baseball IIall of
able.
Fame list by inadvertence. 2 A result of in­
Ant. l vulnerable, weak, insecure.
attention, as an oversight, slip of the tongue,
im.preg.nate (im·preg'nat) v. im.preg.nat·ed,
Im·preg.naHng
l To make pr~gnant or (ertile: to impregnate
624
e-­
~
~.,.
~
inadvertence
~
an ovum. 2 To fill, spreading through every
part: air impregnated with poisonous gas. ~
Syn. 1 fertilize, fecundale. 2 permeate,
saturate, imbue.
im.pre·sa.ri·o (im'pra·sa're·6) n., im.pre.sa·
rj.os pI. ~
A person who manages performers 01' puts on r
performances, as the manager, director, or
sponsor of an opera, ballet, or concert ~
company: Uudolf Bing and S. I1urok (Ire well­
known impresarios.
Etymology: Impresario goes back to the ~
r
Italian wonl for cnterpriBe, imprcsa.
8yl\. enlrepfCneur, producer. ~
im.pri.ma·tur (im'pri·ma'tvr or im'pri·mu'­
tvr) n.
License to print or approval for publication,
granted by an official censor, especially in
~
.
the Roman Catholic Church: The DOllay ~
B;ble bears a bishop's ilt!primatur.
Etymology: In Latin imprimatur means ~
let it be printed.
im.promp·tu (im·promp'l60) adj., adv.
adj. Not planned ahead of time: Unexpectedly ~
besieged by reporters, he made an impromptu
speech. ~
adv. Without preparalioll: an entertainer
always able to perform impromptu.
Etymology: The Latin phrase in promptu ~
means in readiness.
Syn. adj. extemporaneous, spontaneous, off­ ~
the~cuff. adv. extemporaneously, extempore.
Ant. adj. planned, scheduled, prepared,
rehearsed.
im.pro.vi·sa.tion (im'prov·v·za'shan or im'­
pra,vl·za'shan) n.
do a series of improvisations around any prop
he was hmlded.-im'pro.vi.sa'tion.al adj.
Syn. 1 Gxlelnpol'izalion.
im.pro.vise (im'pr8.vjz) v. im.pro·viscd, im·
pro.vis.ing
I To make up music, drama, etc. on the spur
of the momenl, without previous planning: a
pianist good at imprut'ising. 2 To make from
whatever is at hand: to improvise a playhuuse
out of a card table and a sheet.
Syn. 1 invent, extemporize. 2 fashion,
fabricate.
in.ad.c.quatc (in·a(l'u·kwit) «dj.
Not enough or not good enough lo meet
requirements: an inadequate water supply.­
in·ad·c·qua.cy (in· ad'v·kwG·se) n.
Syn. insufficient, deficient, unsatisfactory.
Ant. adequate, sufilcient, satisfactory.
in·ad·ver·tcnce (in'0d·vur'tulls) n.
1 Lack of due care or attention: Babe Ruth's
boner, or other l>lunder.-in'u<i·ycr'tcnl adj.,
in'ad.ver'tent·lyadv.
Syn. 1 negligence, carelessness, inattention.
 inalienable
in·al.ien·a·ble (in.iil'yan.;j.bal) adj.
That cannot rightfully be taken away or
transferred: man's inalienable rights to life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Syn. undeniable, inviolable, irrevocable.
in a perfect example: lIi1ler '"1£1 Gorillg ",ere
Ant. diHputaLle, repealable, alienable.
CTlwily itlcarllulc,
in·am·Q·ra·ta (in·am'a·ra'tal n., in·am·o.ra·tas
pI.
A woman with whom a man is ill love.
Syn. beloved, mistress, love.
in·ane (in.an') adj.
Stupid, silly, or pointless: an illanc remark.
Syn. senseless, foolisb.
Ant. sensible, meaningful.
in·an·j·mate (in·an'a·mit} adj.
1 Not possessing animal life: sticks, "to1/es,
and other inanimate objecis. 2 No longer
conscious or alive: an inanimate body. 3 Lack­
ing spirit or liveliness: a listless, inanimate
acquiescence.
Syn. 1 lifeless, inert. 2 unconscious, dead.
Ant. I animate, sentient, living. 2 conscious,
alive. 3 lively, active.
in·ar·tic·u.late (in'iir·tik'ya.jit) adj.
1 Uttered without the distinct sounds of
spoken lar.guage: inarticulate cries. 2 Incap­
able of speech: inarticulate beasts. 3 Unable to
express oneself fully or well: tongue-tied ami
inarticltlate.
Syn. 1 indistinct, muflled. 2 mUle, speechless.
3 silent.
in·au·gu·rate (in·6'gy~,rat) v. in·au.gu·rat,ed.
in·au.gu.raj,ing
1 To induct into office with formal ceremony:
to ina1tg1lTaie a President. 2 To begin Of
commence formally: to iJl<11l0ltrute a new postal
system. 3 '1'0 celebrate the public opening or
first use of: to inaugurate a bridge.-in.au'gu.
ra'tion 11.
Syn. 1 install, invest. 2 initiate. 3 open.
in,eal·cu·la·ble (in·kal'kya.la·bal} adj.
1 Too great or numerous to be determined:
I1is blunder did incalculable harm. 2 Not
predictable: Iter incalCltlable reactions.
Syn. I immeasurable, inestimable, untold.
2 unpredictable, uncertain.
Ant. 1 little, limited. 2 prodictahle, reliable,
<Io!li:ndabJe,
ill·can·ta·lion (in'kan·ta'shan) n.
1 The uttering or intoning of words or
.... !!!!5
.... m~
.....
syllables supposed to produce magical
results: to cast out an evil spirit by inwntation.
2 The magic words or formnla intoned: a book
of occlilt iJlcmll(ltioll~ .
Syn. 2 spell, charm.
in·ea·IJac·i·ta(c (in'k",pas'ij·tat) t'. in,ca·pac·i.
tat· ed, in.ca,pac·j·tat,ing
....-
To render incapable, especially for nor111al
....!!$ physical activity: A stroke totally incapaci­
tated the former/v aclive man.
Syn. disable, crlpple.
~
in·car·cer·ate (in·klir'si>-ra.t) v. ill.car·cor,,,t·
ed. in·car.cer.at.illg
....
... :!'!!I!W To put in prison: to incarcerate a fe/all in u
maximum-security cell.
...
Syn. imprison, confine, jail.
Syn. k~en, trenchant, hiting, piercing.
-~ Ant. release, free.
Ant. bland, Llullt, g<!lllle,
....%
.....-£!I
L
incisive
in·ear·nale (in-kar'nit adj., in·kar'nat 11.) adj.;
v. in.car.nat·ed, in.car.nat·ing
adj. I Embodied in human form: lhe belief
that Jesns was Go(l incarnate. 2 Represented
v. To represent in living: or cuncrete fortH;
The child illcarna/e'/ll11lh<"ir hopes.
Syn. adj. 2 personified, c;.emplified, typified.
v. embody.
in·car·l\u·lioll (in'kar·na',I1dll) H.
1 The assumption of bodily form: "" aI/gel's
miraculous incarnation. 2 (Written the
Incarnation) The assulllPtion tlf human form
by Jesus Christ. 3 A person or thing that
perfectly typi/i('s HOlne abstract quality or
ldea: a 71HAhcr wlw was the very illW1'I1atioH of
kilidness.
Syn. 3 embodiment, personiilcution, exelll­
plification.
in·cen.di·ar.y (ill,sen'de-er';';) adj.; 11., in·cen·
di·ar.ies pI.
adj. 1 Of or involving the n;aliciou8 burning
of property: an illeel/diary Iw!o(,lIusl. 2 De­
signed to start a fire: incendiary bomb. 3
Tendillg to inllame jJUH8iollS: (l dnl/a­
gogHe's iucemtiury speeches.
n. I A person who maliciously sels fire to
property: un in('entiiary who bunted Dams. 2 A
person who stirs up strife and violence:
Y"I<tltj1<1 incwdiarics who illcileti a tiol.
Syn. at/j. 3 inflammatory. sediLiullS, fiery. n.
1 arsonist. 2 agitutor, firebrand.
in.cep.!ion (in,sell'"h,,") n.
13qdlllling as of nn undertaking; The business
j
W<lS (l SHCCLSS frum the time of iio inceptiun.
Syn. ;start, commenCClnent, inaugur'ation~
Ant. end, close, I1ni811, terminutioll.
in.d·dcnre (in'sv·dolls) 'II.
The degree, amount, or range of occurrence
or eJfect: The high incidence of illiteracy in
soUte renulle mountain reg-ions.
Syn. rate.
in·ci·dcll·tai·ly (in's;),den't.JI·e} ",tv.
I As a subordinute, casual, or chanee
occurrence alon~ with something ebe: 2'Ms
mN~lery 7wvd iflddrlltaliy cUiLldi,ts SIJlne
iniriguing descripliu)/s vf illorocco. 2 By the
way: Incidentally, I happened /0 rlm into
0110 yellterday.-- in'ci,<Icn'tal ad).
Spelling tip: Tally up twu l's wllt'l! you SPI,}!
incidentally.
in,cin·cr·ll·!or (in·sill',,·rfl'tdn II.
A furnace for bundllg trash, garlJ<.~1£(!1 and
other rei use.
in.cip·j·cn! (ilH;i;>'e'Jnt) wlj.
Just jwginning, and still in all ('arly ~lug":
an iucipicnt rebellion; alL i'icipieill ·ulcer.--·­
in.cip'i.cn(~c n,
Syn~ 13tarting (nnbryonic.
Ant. full-flmlgml, full-s,:alc.
in·cj·8ivc (in<si'siv) n(/j.
Sharp and penetrating or cULting: (w il/cisive
critical COrtlllWlI/«fU; incisive ",it .
625

incite
in· cite (in·sit') v. in.cit·ed, in.cit·ing
To stir up or spur on to action: He incited a
rio! by making inflammatory speeches.
Etymology: Incite goes back to Latin roots:
in- (thoroughly) and cit are (to rouse).
Usage: Don't confuse the verb incite (in·slt')
with the noun insight (in'srt'), which means
perception into the heart of something.
Syn. provoke, rouse, stimulate.
Ant. calm, discourage.
in·clem·ent (in·klem'ant) adj.
quential decision.-in'con.se·quen'tial.ly adv.
1 Bad, rough, or stormy (said of the weather):
Syn. unimportant, trivial.
'1'he outing was canceled because of inclement
weather. 2 Without mercy: a stiff sentence
imposed by an inclement judge.
Syn. 1 severe, rigorous. 2 harsh, merciless.
Ant. 1 mild, fair. 2 merciful, lenient.
in·eog·ni.to (in.kog'na·til or in'kog·ne'tO) adv.;
adj.; n., in·cog.ni.tos pI.
adv., adj. Under an assumed name or iden­
tity, especially so as to a void recognition:
'1'he star traveled incognito, using an alias.
n. 1 A person who takes on an assumed
name or identity. 2 An assumed name or
disguise. 3 'I'he state of being in disguise.
in.eom·pat.i·ble (in'kam·pat'a.bal) adj.
1 Unable to live together or to get along
easily with each other: an incompatible
cOILple, filing for divorce. 2 Unable to be
reconciled because of a basic difference in
nature: incompatible beliefs or theories.-in.
com.pa(.j.biJ.i.ty (in'kem·pat'a·bil'a·t{\) n.
Syn. clashing, conflicting, irreconcilable,
discordant.
Ant. congellial, harmonious, concordant.
in.com.pre·hen.si·ble (in'kom·pri·hen'sa·bal)
adj.
Impossible to understand: '1'0 him, nuclear
physics lOas incomprehensible.
Usage: See INCOMPREIIENSIVE.
Syn. unintelligible, unfathomable.
Ant. comprehensible, understandable.
in.com·pre.hen.sive (in'kom·pri·hen'siv) adj.
• Limited in scope: an iHco1ll1Jrehensive
course that concentrated on a specialized as­
pect of the subject. 2 Not able to understand
~
much: incomprehensive retarded children.
Usage: Don't confuse incomprehe.nsive with
incomprehensible: An incomprei!ensive child
~
might find even simple subjects incomprehen­
sible.
Syn. 1 narrow, restricted. 2 dull, slow-witted.
Ant. 1 broad, comprehensive. 2 intelligent.
bright, quick-witted.
in·eon·ceiv·a·ble (in'kan·se'va·bel) adj.
Impossible to conceive of or imagine; It is
inconceivable that man should utterly destroy
of an added quantity: an increnw,Ll of $1000.
the human race.-,in'con.ceiv'a.bly adv.
Syn. 1 increase, addition, augmentation.
Spelling tip: Remember i before e except
2 increase, raise.
~
after c.
Ant. 1 decrease, lessening, reduction, loss.
Syn. unthinkable, unimaginable, unbeliev­
in·cui·cate (in·kul'kat or in'kul·kaL) v. in·cul.
~
able.
cat·ell, in.cu)·ctlt.lng
Ant. expectable, predictable.
To impress upon the mind by ~requent
in·c·on·gru·ous (in·kong'gr60·as) adj.
~
, l Not suitable, proper, or appropriate: He
appeared at the formal dinner tn an absurdly
~
lncongruous cQ'Wboy outfit. 2 Composed of
~'
•
inculcate
elements or parts not properly belonging
together: the incongruous combination of a
formal gOlOn and tennis shoes.-in'con.gru'i·
ty n.
Syn. 1 inappropriate, improper. 2 inhar­
monious, incompatible, contradictory.
Ant. 1 apt, reasonable. 2 harmonious, con­
sistent.
in.con·se.quen·!ial (in'kon,sQ·kwen'sh<ll) adj.
Having little or no importance: an inconse­
Ant. important, significant.
in·eon.veu.ieuce (in'kan·ven'y;}ns) n.; v. in.
~
con.ven·ienced. in.con.ven.ienc.ing
n. 1 Trouble, annoyance, difficulty. or dis­ ~
comfort: the inconvenience of a lony delay. 2 A
source of trouble or annoyance: Having no
•
hot water is an inconvenience. ~
v. To trouble or annoy: lI'e are sorry. to
inconvenience YOll, but we lIIt1st make repmrs. \I!I!!I!!!!.
Syn. n. vexation, bother, nuisance. v. bother,
vex, disturb.
Ant. n. convenience, advantage. v. accommo­
· ~
date, oblige.
in.eor.ri,gi·ble (in·kor'a·ja·bal) adj.• n. ~
adj. Not capable of being improved. correct­
ed or reformed: an incorrigible criminal. ~
n. A perSOll who is incorrigible: 1'he yotlng boy
was considered an incorrigible by his teachers.
-in.cor'ri·gj,blyadv. ~
Syn. adj. unmanageable, incurable, uncor­
rectable. unregenerate.
Ant. adj. corrigible, correctable, improv­
able, manageable.
in. crease (in'kres' D., in'kres n,) v. in·creased.
in.creEls·jng; n.
v. To make or become greaLer, as in number,
~
size, degree, etc.: increasing his wealth.
n. 1 A growing or becoming greater: a gradual
increase in temperature. 2 The amount added
by such an increase: lliB wlary increase
· ~
i
amounted to $20 a week.-in.creas'ing.\y adv.
~
in·cre.du·Ji·ty (in'kra·d(y)60 ' la.te) n.
The quality or state of being incredulous;
doubt: A look of incr1,dulity covered. the
supervisor's face when his as"isl""t "lOplUlnad
his lale arrival at lvork.-ill·cred·u,\ous·ness
(in·krej'a.lus,nis) n.
Syn. uncertainty, indecision, skepticism,
disbelief. . ~
Ant. credulity, belief, cOllviction, certulIlty.
in.ere·ment (in'kra·mant) n, !!!!!.
1 The act or process of increasing; addition:
an anmLal increment in salary. 2 The amount
~
repetition or forceful persuasion: to meulcale
acceptable behavior patterns in children,-in'­
cul.ca'tion n.
Syn. teach, instill.
t"'!!
 incumbent
in· cum· bent (in·kum'bant) adj., n.
adj. 1 Resting upon a person as a moral
obligation, or as necessary under the
circumstances: It is incumbent u1Jon all of 1,S
to love our neighbors. 2 Being in the position
of an officeholder: an incumbent governor who
is a possible Presidential candidate.
n. A person who holds an ofllce or performs
oflicial duties: the present incumbent in the
White House.-··in.cum'ben.cy n.
ili·cur.sion (in·kflr'zhari or in·kilr'shan) n.
A hostile, often sudden, invasion or raid: an
incursion into the enemy's fortress.-···in,cur'­
sive adj.
Syn. attack, assault, sortie, foray.
in·de·cent (in·de'gant) adj.
1 Vulgar, immodest, or obscene: arrested for
indecent exposure. 2 Not proper or respect­
able: Afler King Hamlet died, the queen
remarried with indecent haste.-in.de'cen·ey n.
Syn. I lewd. shameless, wanton. 2 unseemly,
improper, indecorous.
Ant. 1 decent, modest, chaste. ,2 seemly,
proper, decorous.
in.dec·or·ous (in·dek'ar·as) adj.
Not fitting or proper; unseemly; unbecom­
ing: It is cunsidered indecorous to comb one's
hair at the dinner table.-in.dec'or,ous.ly adv.,
in·dec'or·ous·ness n.
Syn. ill-mannered, rude, crude.
Ant. polite, proper, refined.
in·de·fat,i, ~a. ble (in'da' {at'aga·b"l) adj.
Never tning or weakening: indefaligable
efforts 10 pass a strong gun-control law.
Syn. tireless, untiring, unflagging.
Ant. tired, flagging, halfhearted.
ill·de·fen·si·ble (in'di,fen'sa,bal) "dj.
I Incapable of being justified or excused: all
indefensible error. 2 Incapahle of being
defended against attack: an indefensible
position. exposed on a/I sides.
8yn. 1 unjustifiable, inexcusable, unpardon­
able. 2 vulnerable, untenable.
Ant. I justifiable, excusable, pardonable.
2 invulnerable, impregnable, defensible.
in,de\.i·lJle (in·del'a·b"n adj.
1 Incapable of being bl(;Lled out or erased:
Iiis leacher made an indelible impression on
Usage: Intii""s is the Latin pllll'ai (;f iIH/e.C,
him. 2 Leaving a mark or stain not easily
which is also a Latin word. Some puriots feel
erased: imiclible ink.-in.del'i,bly adv.
that indices is the proper fMm, but intleus
Etymology: Indelible comes from Latin
hus heen used hy most people for many years
-
~
+
roots: in- (not) de!ibilis (perishable).
Syn. 1 permanent, lasting, ineradicable.
Ant. 1 temporary, passing, momentary.
in·dem·lli·fy (in·dem'nJCI) v. in,dem·ni·lied,
in·dem·ni·(y·ing
1 To compensate a person, etc., for loss or
damage: The insurance company indemnifier!
him for the luss of his car. 2 To give security
against future loss or damage: a proposal to
indemnljy mercilants for 'Prupertll damage
during riots.-in,dern'nl·fi·ca'tjon n.
8yn. 1 recompense, pay, reimburse. 2 insure,
secure.
in·dem,ni·ty (in,dem'na·te) n., in·dem·ni·ties
pl.
I Payment given as eompensation for loss or
-L
......
.$!I
indigenous
dama~e: The 'insamnce company iwillo pay a
large mdemnily for Ids injuries. 2 An agree­
ment to insure another against loss or dam­
age: a plan that included in<ie){!I;ily against
financial loss durillg illness.
Syn . 1 recompense, remuneration.
in·den·ture (in·den'(:hor) n.; v. in.den·tured.
in,den·(ur·ing
n. In I"Ul A de",1 or contract made between
two or more parties, especially one between
master and apprentice.
e. To bind a person by indenture: lIe was if!­
dentured to the farmer for six years.
8yn. v. apprentice.
in.de.pen,dent ( in'di'pen'd,Jllt) adj" n.
adj. 1 Not subject to the authority of allOlher;
free: un independent eountry. 2 Acting so as to
manage one's own affairs: Women have become
very indepenilent in the Illst fifty years. 3 Not
I?art of some larger group, system, etc.: an
mdepellrient neighborhood grucer. .. Not
needing financial support or help'from others:
to find a job und become in<iejlendenl. 5 Not
belonging to a particular political party or
faction: an independent voter. 6 Not influenced
or guided hy others: an independent opinion.
7 SuHicient to live on without being em­
ployed: an i"dependnlti1leome. 8in grammar
Ahle to be a complete sentence: anind,;Jlcn­
dent clause.
n. A penlOn who is independent, eS[l"cially a
voler who helongs to no party or {action.
in.del' ( in'llcks) ~L, in,dex,es or in.di,c!!" (in'­
da,sez) pI.; v.
n. 1 An alphabetical list, as at the end o{ a
book, etc., of topic" anti names and the
numbers of the pages where they occur in the
text: the index of (! cooh·boo!:. 2 Anything that
indicates or give~ evidence of something:
A/erlr",ss is an index of inlclligcnce. 3 Any­
thing that surv,," as all intii"ator, a" u needle
on a dial. 4 The linger next to the thumh;
index fmger.
v. I To provide wit h an index, as a hook:
Books of fir/ion ure nul indexed. 2 To enter a
nUlnH or topic in an ihl1t;X: tv iwlt'x n,/crcnct:s
to Uooseedt.
and is quite correct.
in·diet (in·dit') v,
I To charge with a wwnil'. olfellse, or short­
coming: '1'h" mnyor iltdieted cilizc?IS who
remained imliff""",t 10 the cily's pl'"bl{,lIls. 2 In
law 1'0 bring a fonna} accusation against as a
basis for a trial (Baid of a prosecut;l1g
authority): The graHd jury [wh,:t",l him for
1Jlunler,..- ill,diet'ment iI.
Spelling tip: Remember to include the silent c.
Syn. I accuse, incriminate.
in·dig·e:nolls ( in·dij'a'nas) a<ij.
Originating or occurring naturally in the
place or country where found: Koala bears are
indigenous to Australia.~·in,dili'e.nous.ly
adv., in.dig'".nous,nesi; n.
627
Indigent
Syn. native. aboriginal.
in.ef·fa·ble (in.ef'a·bal) adj.
Ant. alien. foreign, immigrant.
Too overpowering to be expres~ed in words;
in·di.gent (in'da·jant} adj.
Having little or no money; poor: indigent
families forced to go on re!ief.-in'dj·gence 11.,
in'di.gent.lyadv.
Syn. needy, penniless. destitute.
Ant. rich, wealthy. prosperous.
in.dis·peu.sa·ble (in'dis.pen'sd.bal) adj.
Absolutely essential; necessary: He is indis­
pensable to his boss.-in'dis·pen'sa.bil'i.ty,
!n'dis.pen'sa·bIe.ness n.; in'dis·pen'sa.bIy adv.
Spelling lip: Notice that indispensable ends
in -able, not -ible. Since the choice of -able and
·ible, in the case of words derived from La tin,
depends upon the conjugation of the original
Latin verb to which the suffix is added, it is
easier for most people to learn the' spelling of
the individual words. However, -able is
always the suffix used to form adjectives from
English verbs, such as answerable, plowable,
understandable.
in·dis.put·a·ble (in'dis·py60'ta·b"l) adj.
Not to be disputed; unquestionable: His
canceled check was ind'isputable proof that he
had paid.-·in'dls.put'a.bil'j,ty, in'dis.put'a.
ble·ness n.; in'dis.pul'a.bly «rlv.
~
Syn. incontestable, undeniable, indubitable,
incontrovertible.
Ant. dubious, doubtful, questionable, un­
certain.
in·do.lent (in'da·lant) adj.
Averse to exertion or work; lazy: an indolent
boy who lounged on tlte porch all day.-in'do.
lence n., In'do.Ient·ly adv.
SYR. idle, inactive, sluggish.
Ant. active. busy, energetic.
in·dom·j,ta·ble ([n·dom'i.ta·bol) adj.
Not easily defeated; persevering; stubborn:
an indomitable urge to succeed.-in.dom'i·la·
blyadv.
Syn. unyielding, unconquerable, invincible.
Ant. feeble, languid, weak.
in.du·bi·ta· ble (in.d (y) 6O'ba·t,,· b~l) adj.
Not to be doubted; unquestionable: A birth
certificate is indubitable proof of age.-in.du'­
bi.ta.biy adv.
Syn. indisputable. undeniable, positive.
Ant. dubious, dOUbtful, uncertain.
in·duce·ment (in.d(y)60s'mant) n.
1 The act of inducing or persuading. 2 Some·
thing that serves to persuade a person to do
something: Is the piecework system an
inducement· to produce more per hOllr?
Syn.2 incentive, spur, stimulus.
sudden deaths are an inexphcable mystcry.­
Ant. 2 deterrent. hindrance.
in.exlpli.ca.bil'j.ly, in·ex'pli.ca.blc.ness n.;
in·e·bri.at·ed (in'ii'briH,'tid) adj.
Intoxicated; drunk: The policeman stated that
his prisoner was in an inebriated condition
at the time of the arrest.-in·e'bri·a'tion n.
Syn. tipsy. high.
Ant. sober.
jn·ed·j·ble {in·ed'a·bal} adj.
Not fit to eat: Squash and pumpkins are
edible, but gourds are inedible. that is an infallible source of informalion.-in·
Syn. uneatable, unpalatable.
fal'li.bil'i·ly, in·fal'li.bIe·ness n.; in·faI'li.bly
Ant. edible, eatable, palatable.
adv.
628
infallible
indescribable: When he saw the brilliant sunset
he experienced ineffable pcace.-in.cf'fa.biI'­
ity, in·cf'fa·ble.ness n.; in.ef'fa·bly mtv.
Syn. unutterable, inexpressible, mysterious.
in.el·i·gi·ble (in.ella·ie·bal) adj. ~
I
Not eligible, qualified, or suitable: [,ow gradc$
made him ineligible for a scholarship.-in·eI'j.
gi.bil'i-Iy n.
Syn, unqualified, disqualified, unfit.
Ant. eligIble, qualified, fit. ~
in·ept (in·ept') n.
1 Not suitable or appropriate; out of place: ~
!IlL inept and highl¥ tucl/ess rem~!fk. 2,Clumsy;
Incompetent: an wept c()Qk.~-m·epl ness n.,
in.cpt'Iy adv. ~
Syn. 1 ill-timed, inopportune. 2 inefficient. •
Ant. 1 proper, appropriate. 2 capable. ~
eiflcient, competent.
in.eq.ui·(y (in·ek'wu·te) n., in.eq·ui.tics 111.
~
1 A lack of justice or fairness: the inequity of a ,
rigid caste system. 2 An unfair act or course of
action; an instance of injustice. ~
Usage: Do not confuse ineq"ily with iniIJ"ity. ,
1 uequity is formetl from ",tuily (meaning
fairness or somet.hing that is fair) plus the
prefix in- (meaning noll. COIlsequently it
means unfairness or an unfair thing. I niqlliiy, ~
which is not the negative form of any other I
word, means wickedneRs or a wkked deed:
He will be punished for his iniql<ilics. ~
in.er·tia (in·fir'sha) ?l.
1 A disinclination to move or act; sluggish­
ness: the inertia produced by a hot, 1IIuggy day.
2 In physics A property of matter by which a
phYSICal body persists ill its state of rest or of
uniform motion until acted upon by some
external force.-in.er'liaI adj.
Syo. I laziness, inactivity, indolence.
An!. 1 alertness. energy, vigor.
in.ev·i·ta·ble (in·ev'a·ta·bal) adj., /!.
adj. Unable to be avoided or prevented from
happening; unavoidable; certain: To grolV old
is inevitable.
71. Something that is unavoidable: The mature
person learns to (lCCApt the incvitables of life.
Syn. adj. inescapable, destined, unprevent­
able. n. certainty.
Ant. adj. uncertain, avoidable, preventable.
n. uncertainty.
ill.ex·pli.ca.ble (in·eks'pli·ka·bvl 01' in'iks'plik'­
a·bol) adj.
Impossible to explain; unexplainable: Their
in.ex'pli.ca.blyadv.
Syn. Ulli\ccountable. mysterious.
Ant. clear, obvious.
in.fal·n·ble (in-tal'o·bol) a<ij.
I Incapable of error in thought or action;
never mistalHm; No human beinYlis infallible
-altliough 1018 of people would argue the point.
2 Not liable to fail; unerring: an encyclopedia
infaPlOUS
Syn. 1 unfailing, inerrable. 2 certain, trust­
A physical or mental defect or ailment: the
worthy, del?endable.
infirmities of old age.
Ant. l fallible, uncertain, unreliable. 2 in­
S),n. debility, weakness, illness.
accurate, unsure, uncertain.
in.fiam.ma.ble (in·flam'a-bal) adj.
in·fa·mous (in'la·mas) adj.
1 Having a bad reputation; notoriously bad:
Benedict Arnold. an infamous tmitor. 2 Ex­
tremely evil; shamelul; odious: the infamous
crimes of Jack the Ripper.-in'ia.mous.ly adv.,
in/ia·mous·ness n.
Syn. 1 evil, scandalous. 2 heinous, shocking,
vile.
Ant. 1 noble. honorable, reputable. 2 laudable,
excellent, meritorious.
in·fa.my (in'la-me) n., in·fa·mies pI.
1 Lack of honor or good reputation; evil
notoriety: the infamy of the gangsters of the
19208. 2 The state or quality of being
infamous: the infamy of infanticide. 3 An
infamous act: He included the killing of lIis
uvife among his infamies.
Syn. 1 ill-repute, disgrace, disrepute.
3 crime. offense, felony, wrongdoing.
in,fan·tile (in'fan·tll or in'fan·til) adj.
1 Of or having to do with inlancy or infants:
an infantile disease. 2 Like or characteristic of
infancy or infants; babyish: television pro­
grams geared 10 an infantile audience.
Syn. 2 immature, childish.
bad enviromrwni. 2 The kind of power that is
Ant. 2 grown-up, adult, mature.
indirect or nonforceful: Use your influence to
in·fer (in·fur f ) v. In·ferred. in·fer.ring
1 To arrive at by reasoning; conclude or
deduce from evidence or premises: From his
ailence at the party we inferred thai he was not
enjoyinq himself. 2 To involve or imply as a
conclUSIOn; give evidence of: A happy family
life infers contentment. 3 Loosely, to indicate
without actually stating; suggest; imply: 11e
inferred that otherB were involved in the plot.
Usage: See IMPLY.
in·fer'ence (in'far·ans) n.
1 That which is inferred; deduction: Certain
inference. may be drawn from ev(m a ea"ua!
study of the duta. 2 The act or process of
inferring. a Loosely, Ii guess or surmise:
Sdentific conclusions must be based on facts,
not on inferences.
Syn. 1 conclusion. a conjecture, supposition.
in·fin·ite (in'fa.nit) adj.
1 Having no boundaries or limits: infinite
space. 2 Very numerous or great: an infinite
8u'fl1y. :I All-embracing: infinite 1Visdom.­
in li·nlte.Iy adv., In'ft·nile·ness n.
Brn. 1 limitless, boundless. 2 vast, countless.
3 absolute, perfect.
Ant. 1 limited, definable. 2 measurable,
insignificant. 3 circumscribed, restricted.
in·tin.i·tes·i· mal (in'fin.a. tes'a· mal) adj.
So small in size, significance, etc., as to amount
to practically nothing: A grain of sand is an
infinitesimal part of the desert.~in'fin·i·tes'i·
mal·ly adv.
Syn. inappreciable, imperceptible.
Ant. huge, enormous, great.
in·flr·mi·!y (in·f(lr'ma·te) n,. in·lir·mi·ties pI.
ingenue
1 Capable of catching fire easily: a dangerou.ly
inflammable gas. 2 Easily excited or aroused:
an inflammable temper.
Usage: inflammable does 110/ meall "not
flammable"; it meansflumnwble, coming from
the same Latin source as the word injl"mc.
Flammable is preferred in technical conteds
because it is not confusing: Gasoline is a
flammable /ifll,itl.
in.fiam.ma.to.ry (in-flam'a.t6r'e) adj.
'rending to produce or arouse excitement,
violence, anger. etc.: a poliliciall given to
inji"ntm«/ory sprecites.
Syn. incendiary, rabble~rousillg.
ill·fiex·i·ble (in·flek'sa·bal) adj.
Incapable of being bent, swayed, or changed:
a It iTlflexible discipli Ilarian.-~in·flex'i.bil'i .Iy
n.
Syn. rigid, unbending. unyielding.
Ant. flexible, elastic, pliable.
in·fiu·ence (in/floo-ans) n.; v. in·f!u-enced, in·
t1u·endng
)1. 1 The power of pOl-sons or things to
produce effeds on others: the iuJltwlIce of a.
help me get a job. :I A pcraun or thing that
possesses such power: a teacher who was a
strong injluence for beller ",/ucrzlion.
v. To have Or produce an effect on: The
1I/oon influences the tide.~.
in. flux (in'fluks) II.
A flowing or coming in: (w illJhu of people
into the auditorium.
Syn. inftow, ingress, inrush.
Ant. outflow, efflux, emanati()n.
in·frac·tiol! (in·lrak'shan) n.
The act of breaking or violating a pledge,
law, etc.: all illfraction of liw cily's parking
regulations.
8yn. violation, infringement.
in·fringe (in.frinj') v. in·fringed, in-fring·ing
1 To break or disregard the terms or require­
ments of, as an oath or law: c<wl;illg an in­
ternational di.'Pule by infringing a treaty. 2 To
trespass or encroach: to infringe U1/ (/ 1wlcnt
riaht.-hdringe'ment n.
iu·gen.iolls (in·jen/yus) adj.
1 Showing originality in its conception or
execution: all ingenious 1Jlall. 2 Having in­
ventivenells and skill: a II i>!fI"uj",," d",igllcr.
-in.gen'iaus·ly at/v., in·gen'ious·ness JL
Syn. 1,2 clever, inventive, original.
Ant. 1,2 unoriginal, inept, uninventive.
ill·ge·llue (an'zha'lloo' or an'zhd"noo') n.
1 The role of a girl or young woman in a
play, film, etc. 2 An actress who plays such a
role. :I A girl or young woman of guileless
simplicity and innocence.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
without the accent on the e.
629

ingenuity
in·ge·nu·j·ty (in'ja·n(y)60'a·te) n., in·ge·nu.i·
ties pI.
1 Cleverness or skill, as in invention,
designing, problem-solving, etc.: the ingenuity
he displayed in building his own home. 2 A
@!!!!!.
clever plan, act, device, etc.: the numberless
ingenuities of the modern American kitchen.
~
Syn. 1 resourcefulness, ability, aptitude.
Ant. 1 unskillfulness, inexpertness, inaptitude.
in·gen·u·ous (in·jen'y60·as) adj.
Characterized by sincerity, openness, or
innocent candor: the young girl's ingenuous
remark.-in.gen'u.ous.ly adv., in.gen'u·ous·
ness n.
Syn. simple, guileless, naive.
Ant. disingenuous, insincere, sly.
in.gra.(i.ate (in·gra'shHlt) v. in·gra·tj·at·ed,
in.gra.tj.at·ing
To bring oneself deliberately into the favor
or confidence of others: a boss who resented
his employees' efforts to ingratiate themselves
with him.
in·her·ent (in·hir'ant or in·her'unt) adj.
Being a permanent and essential element or
quality of something: a person's inherent will
to live.-in.her'ent.ly adv.
Syn. intrinsic, innate, natural.
~
Ant. extrinsic, ex traneous.
in·her·i·tance (in·her'a·tans) n.
1 The act or fact of receiving something from
an anceslor at death: She is an heiress, rich
by inheritance. 2 Heredilary right: an earl by
~
inheritance. 3 Anything inherited, as a sum of
money or a family trait: He squandered his
inheritance and was soon penniless. -
Syn. 3 patrimony, bequest, legacy.
in·hib·it (in- hib'it) v.
To hold back or check an impulHe, action,
process, etc.: Lack of self-confidence inhibited
the young man's efforts to get ahead.
Syn. restrain, repress, suppress.
offensive.
Ant. support, encourage, promote.
in·no·va·tion (in'a-va'shun) n.
in·im·j·cal (in-im'i·kal) adj.
1 Showing harmful opposilion: a conservative
trend inimical to the advancement of the civil
rights movement. 2 Behaving in an unfriendly
or hostile way: inimical neighbors.-in.
im'i·cal.ly adv.
Syn. 1 antagonistic, opposed, adverse.
2 unsociable, contentious, bellicose.
Ant. 1 favorable, helpful. 2 friendly, peaceable.
in·im·i·ta·ble (in·im'a·ta·bdl) adj.
Impossible to copy or imitate: his inimitable
musical style.-in.im'i.ta.bly adv.
in·iq·ui·(ous (in·ik'wa·tas) adj.
Very wicked or unjust: illiquitutls behavior.­
in.iq'ui.tous.ly adv.
Syn. sinful, villainous.
in·iq·ui·(y (in.ik'wa·t~) 11., in·iq·ui·ties pl.
J Serious violation of right or justice: the
iniquity of segregation. 2 A wrong or unjust
~
action: the uncountable iniquities of the Hitler
regime.
Usage: See INEQUITY.
Syn. 1 wickedness, sinfulness, injustice. 2 sin,
crime, outrage.
630
•
inoculate
in·i·ti·a·tion (in·ish'e·a'shan) n.
1 The act of starting: At the iniliation of the
project we had no confidence in the ability of its
director. 2 The special instruction or ceremony
that admits a person to some position,
society, knowledge, etc.: His initiation into •
the fraternity was a solemn affair.
Syn. 1 beginning, commencement.
Ant. 1 conclusion, finish.
•
~
ink·ling (ingk'ling) n.
A slight suggestion or notion: I had no inkling
of his plans. ~
Syn. hint, intimation, idea.
in· nate (i.nat' or in'at.) adj. ~
Springing from a person's nature: an innate
love of music.~in.nate'ly adv.
•
Syn. inborn, natural, intrinsic, inherent. ~
Ant. extrinsic, acquired, learned.
in.no·cent (in'a·sant) adj., n. ~
adj. 1 Free from guilt, sin, or blame: an
innocent bystander. 2 Simple, unworldly, and
unspoiled: an innocent idea. 3 Harmless:
~
innocent pastimes. •
n. An innocent person, especially a young ~
child: the slaughter of the innocents.
Spelling lip: Don't confuse innucents (inno­
cent persons) with innocence (the quality or
fact of bcing innocent).
Syn. adj. 1 guiltless, blameless. 2 naive, in­ ~
genuous. 3 innocuous, inoffensive.
Ant. adj. 1 guilty, culpable. 2 worldly,
sophisticated. 3 harmful, evil.
in.noc·u·ous (i·nok'y60·"s) adj.
1 Having no harmful qualities or effects: an
innocuous garter snake. 2 Not likely to offend
or arouse strong feelings: an innocuous
speech.- in.noc'u.ous.ly adv., in·noc'u·QUs·
ne8S n.
Syn. 1 harmless, safe. 2 inolrensive, blant.!.
Ant. 1 harmful, dangerous. 2 inflammatory,
1 The introduction of a change or of some­
thing new: a dull office routine that 1V(tS
markedly impruved by creative innovation.
2 Something newly introduced: the innova­
tiuns of the last city administration.
in·nu·en·do (in'y60·en't.!o) n., in.nu·cn·does 1'1.
An indirect hint, comment, or suggestion,
especially one that is derogatory: The
woman's reputatiun u'as ruined by imlunu/ocs
concerning her personal life.
Syn. allusion, insinuation, intimation.
~
in·nu·mer·a·ble (i-n(y)oo'm"r·"·b,,l) adj. ,
'1'00 many to be counted or numbered.
Syn. counlless, measureless, numberless. ~
,
in.oc·u·late (in·ok'ya·lat) v. in.oe·u·lat·ed, in·
oc·u·lut·inl( ~
1 To give a mild form of a disease to a ,
person, animal, etc., by implanting its
bacteria or virus, usually as a means of
producing immunity: to inoCIIlate a child with
~
smallpox virus. 2 To implant ideas, opinions,
etc., III the mind of someone: lu inoculate"
child with racial prejUdice.
Syn. 2 instill, inculcate. ~
~
 inordiuate
in.or·di.nate (in·Or'da·nit) adj.
Exceeding usual or proper limits; an inor­
dinate devotion 10 her job that resulted in u
physical breakdown.~in.or'di.nate·ly adv.
Syn. immoderate, excessive.
~in·sjs'tence n., in.sls'tent.ly adv.
Ant. moderate, restrained.
integrate
Ant. 1 spirited, vivacious, exciting. 2 tasty,
appetizing.
in·sis·tent (in·sis'tant) adj.
Persistent or demanding: insisienipiwne culls.

in. sol· vent (ill-sol'vant) udj.

in.quir.y (in·kwlr'e or in'kwar·£!) n., in·quir.ice
pI.
l The act of seeking answers, facts, truth
etc., especially in rela~ion to some matter of
public interest; an inquiry -into the charges
of brutality brought against the police. 2 A
question: a girl hired to answer telephone
inquiries.
Spelling lip; A less common spelling of this
feelin!!', idea, ele.) in someone: He ino'Pired
word is enquiry.
fear til his fallowers. 3 To inhale.--- in'spi.
Syn. 1 investigation, examination. 2 query.
ra'lIon n., in'spir.a'tion·al adj.
in·sa·tia.ble (in·sa'sha·bal or in·sa'she·a·bill)
adj.
Incapabl(l of being satisfied; never getting
enough: illsatiable ambition.-in.saTlia.bly
adv.
Syn. unappeasable, unquenchable.
in.scru·ta.ble (in·skroo'ta·bal) adj.
That cannot be understood or searched into:
an inscrutable glance.~in·scru'ta.bil'i.ty 11,.,
n. A very short time.
Not able to pay debts as they become due;
bankrupt.--in.sol'yen.cy 1<.
in.som·ni·a (in.som'ne·a) n.
Chronic inability to get enough sleep.
in·spire (in·spIr') v. in.spired, in·spir.ing
1 To stir deeply; arouse to action: llis ~peech
inspired me to try harder. 2 To arouse (a
in·stal·la.tion (in'st;;,·la'shon) n.
1 The act of placing or positioning for use:
Workmen are ref/Hired for the installatian of
traffic lights. 2 A large complex of buildings in
which personnd work and, possibly, are
housed, as an army base or fort: military
installations in Germ.aH'Y.
in·stallt (in·stant) n .. adj.

in·scru'ta.bly adv.
adj. Happening with no delay; immediate.

Syn. mysterious, incomprehensible.

in.sti·gate (in'sta·gat) v. in.sti.gat.ed, in-sUo
Ant. clear, understandable.
gat·ing
i n·sen·sate (in·sen'satl adj.
1 Showing a lack of human feeling: insensate
cruelty. 2 Without sense or reason: his in­
sensate anger. 3 Lacking physical sensation:
insensate stone.
Syn. 1 unmoved, pitiless. 2 stupid, foolish.
in·sti.tute (in'sta·t(y)oot) v. in.sH.tut·ed, in·
3 inanimate. .
sti.tut.ing; n.
Ant. 1 humane, compassionate, kindly,
11. To set up; to found or get goill~: 1'he
sympathetic. 2 reasonable, sensible, thought­
Justice Department instituted an im·esl1gatiun.
ful, rational. 3 animate, sentient, sensible.
n. An organization or school devoted to a
in·sep.a·ra·ble (in·sep'ar·a·bal) adj.
Incapable of being separated: lifelong
inseparable friends.~in·sep'a.ra.bly adv.
jn·sid·j·ous (in·sid'e·os) adj.
1 Slyly cunning or deceitful: an insidious plot
to overthrow the government. 2 Acting or
dev!!lopi!lg gra?ually a!,d usually harmfully:
an tnslduJU8 dlsease.-·!n-"ld'l.ou!j.Jy adv., in·
sld'j,oU.!l·ness n.
S),n. 1 treacherous, wily, crafty. 2 undetected.
Ant. 1 overt, manifest, obvious.
in.~in.u.ate (in·sin'yoo·at) v. in..!lin·u·at.ed, in·
sln.u.at.lng
1 To suggest slyly or indirectly: insinuating
that her behavior was in bad taste. 2 To
introduce or work gradually in a subtle or
indirect way: insinuating himself into his
employer's favor.~ln.sln 'u.at'lng.ly udv•• In.
sin'u·a'tion n~
Syn. 1 hint, imply, infer. 2 instill, implant.
in·sip·id (in·sip'id) adj.
~ 1 Lacking spirit, vivacity, and interest: an
insipid recital. 2 Lacking flavor or savor: an
.c.-~ insipid meal.-in.slp'ld·ly adv., in·slp'ld.ness
n. .
Syn. 1 dull, spiritless, uninteresting. 2 taste­
~ less, bland, flat.
To bring about by inciting: to goad or spur
on to some drastic course or deed: 10 instigate
a nationwide revolt among car buyers.
Syn. incite, p~ovoke, foment.
Ant. prevent, discourage.
special study or cause: an arl instjlute.
Syn. v. establish, start, organize. initiate.
' in.sti.tu·tioll (in'sta-t(y)oo'shJn) 1'­
1 An established organization: iwspitals,
universities, and other i1lslitutiul!S. 2 An
accepted practice, belief, custom, etc.: the
institution of marriage. 3 The initiation of
something: the institution of " vuara1lteed
annual wage.
in.su.la·UolI (in's(y)o-la'st.,m) n.
Nonconducting material used to surround
something in order to prevent the leakage of
electricity, heat, "ound. etc.: a gas leak
caused by inadelluate insulation.
in·su. per.a·ble (in-soo'p<Jr-a-b<Jl) adj.
Not possible to surmount or overcome: an
insupemble obstacle.
Syn. insurmountable, unconquerable.
Ant. surmountable, defeatable.
in.sur·gent (in·sur'jant) adj., n.
adj. Rising in revolt against authority: The
insurgent forces defeated the <lictator's army.
n. A rebel: Castro's insurgents were victorious .
in·te·grate (in'ld-grat) 11. in.te.grat.ed, in.te·
grat·ing
1 To bring together or fit together into a
whole; to unify: lie integrated tlte various

<".

--L
....... ~

631
 :(;:

iutegrity intransigent

episodes into a narrative. 2 To cause to be

1 To explain the meaning of or to make clear:

used or occupied (as a school, park, neighbor­

to interpret a friend's nail-biting as a sign of

hood, etc.) by both blacks and whites:

nervousness. 2 To translate out loud: He

America's continued attempt to integrate publio

interprets Russian speeches for the U.N.­
schooI8.-in'te.gra'tion n.
in·ter'pret.er n.

Syn. 1 unite, consolidate, fuse.

in·ter.rupt (in/ta·rupt') v. ..
in·teg.rj·ty (in·teg'ra·te) n. 1 To hinder or stop someone who IS talkmg,
1 The quality or sta te of being honorable, working, etc. by speaking or otherwise
principled, and sincere: a man 0/ integrity who distracting attention: to j1lterrupt a conversa­
would never sel! out. 2 The qualttyor state of
being whole and undivided: the ~o81 integrity
.
tion. 2 To break the continuity of; to bring
to a temporary halt: The seamen's strike in­
0/ Germany. terrupted the activity of 'illost passenger ships.
S),n. 1 character, honor. 2 unity, complete­
in·ter.sperse (in/tor·spilrs') v. in.ler·spersed,
ness.
in.!cr.spcrs.ing
Ant. 1 unscrupulousness, immorality. 2 divi­
To scatter among olher things ur to diversify
aion, fragmentation.

or adorn with other things scattered here and

in·tel.li·gent (in.tel'a·gant) adj. there: to 'intersperse the lights with candy canes.
1. Having an active. discerning mind with

the power to reason: an intelligent child who

in·ter·state (in'tar·sl!lt') adj.
grew up to be a famous scholar. 2 Characterized
Involving two or more states of the United
by good reasoning: an intelligent remark.
Stales: inlerstate C01it1lleree belwccl! New York
3 :r.~ndowed with intellect or understanding:
and New Jer8ey.
Is there intelligent life on Mars?
in.ler.stel.lar (in'tar'5tel'ar) adj.

a
Syn. 1, 2 bright, brainy, smart. thinking,
Between or among the sLars: lhe vastness of

reasoning.
interstella r space.

in·ter ( in·tur') v. in·terred, in.ler·ring in·tes·tate (in·tes'tllt or in·tes'tit) adj.

To place in a grave; bury: The war hero was Not having made a will before death.

interred in Arlington.-in·ter'rnent n.
S),n. entomb.

ill·tes·ti·nal (in.tes'ta·nal) adj. •

Part of or affecting the intestines (the
Ant. exhume, disinter, disentomb.

in·ter.cept (in'tar·sept') v.
'1'0 prevent from reaching a destination, as by
seizmg or destroying: H i8 uncle intercepted
•
portion of the digestive system extending
from the st()mach to the anus): an intestinal
virus.
in·tim·i·date (in·tim'a·dilt) v. jn·tim·i.dat·ed,

all/ove leiters arldressed to him. in.tirn.i.dat.ing

in·ter.cep·tor (inftar·sep'tar) n. To arouse fear in or to frighten deliberately

A person or thing that intercepts, especially in order to make compliant: l1is deep voive

a fighter plane: a formation 0/ interceptors. intimidated the child.-in·tirn'j·da'tion n.

in.ter·fer·ence (in'tar·fir'ans) n. Syn. frighten, scare, terrify.

1 Obstructing, meddling. or conflicting: tlte in to·to (in to'tO) adv.

interference of a n electrical storm with television Latin for completely; with nothing omitted:

reception. 2 In sports' Illegal obstruction of an to publish the statesman's correspondence in toto.

opponent. S)'n. totally. entirely.
in·ter·im (in'tar.im) n., aiU. in·trac·ta·ble (in·trak'ta·bal) adj.

n. A time between periods or events; an

Stubborn and uncooperative; difficult to

intervening time: The interim of peace be­

con trol: a n intractable child who responds to

tween World Wars I and II.

every request by howling "No/"

adj. Temporary; existing only in the time

Syn. unmalleable, disobedient. strong-willed,

between periods or events: an interim

unruly.

appointment.
Ant. tractable, docile, submissive.

8),n. n. intermission, interlude.

in·tran·si·gence (in·tran'sa.jans) n.

in.ter·loc·u·to.ry (in'tar·lok'ya·torfj'! or inft.ar. The act or qUality of refusing to compromise:

10k'ya·tO'rl\) adj. The intransigence of both managejllen! and

Pertaining to or being like a dialogue; the labor resulted in a ten-illonth strike.

interlocutory format of TV panel shows. Syn. stubbornness, inflexibility. resoluteness.

Syn. conversational. chatty. Ant. cooperativeness, reasonableness.

in·ter·mi·na·ble (in·tUr'ma.na·bal) adj. in·tran.si·gent (ill·tran's",·jdnt) adj., n.

Unending or continuing for an undul,y long adj. Refusing to compromise: The intransi­
time: an evening 80 dull it seemed intermmable. gent candidate refused to deviate from his policy

in·ter·mit·tellt (in'tar·mit'ant) adj. even though no one else agreed wilh him.

Not continuous; stopping and then starting n. One who refuses to compromise: The con­
again at intervals: intermittent attacks 0/ hall vention ended in a deadlock because riahtist and

fever. leftist intransigents refused /0 release their

Syn. sporadic, discontinuous, interrupted. delegates to any other candidate.

Ant. continuous, unbroken, unremittmg. Syn. adj. ullcompromising, unbending,

in.ter.pret (in·tilr'pril) v. in.ter.pret.ed, in.ter· adamant. u. irreconcilable, holdout. die-hard.

pret·lng Ant. adj. reasonable, cooperaLivc, flexible.

632
 intrastate irascible

in·tra.state (in/tra.stat') adj. in.vei.gle (in·ve'gal or in·va'gal) v. in.vei·gled.

Confined within or pertaining to a single in.vel.gling .
state, especially one of the United States: To coax or entice by guile or flattery: If we
Certain Federal laws do not apply 10 intrastate Iry hard, we might inveigle lIlother into baking
commerce. us a cake.
iu.trep·id (in·trep'id) adj. Syn. cajole, beguile.
Unusually brave; fearless: an intrepid Ant. discourage.
mountain climber attempting a peak that no one in·ven·to·ry (in'van·tor'e) n., in.ven·to.ties pl.
else had dared to cUmbo A complete list of articles, with description,
Syn. dauntless, heroic. quantity, and value of each: The owner of the
Ant. cowardly, craven, yellow. shop submitted an inventory and the price he
ill·tri·ca.cy (in'tri·ka·se) n. wanted for the property.
1 The condition of being difficult to follow or Syn. stock, supply.
understand: We were amazed at the intricacy in· verse (in,vl1rs' or in'vl1rs) adj., n.
of his ideas. 2 Something difficult to follow or adj. Opposite or reversed in order, effect. etc.:
understand: the intricacies of the subway Subtraction is the inverse operation of addition.
!IIBtem • . n. The direct opposite: Subtraetiunis the
Syn. complexity.
inverse of addition.
Ant. simplicity.
Syn. contrary.
in·tri·cate (in/tri·kit) adj. in·vet·er·ate (in·vet'ar.it) adj.
Difficult to follow or understand: an intricate Firmly established by long habit or u~age: an
design. inveterate smoker; an inveterate garnulcr.
Syn. puzzling, complicated, involved. Syn. confirmed, habitual, persistent.
Ant. simple.
in.trigue (ill·tr~g' or in'treg) n.; v. in.trigued, in·vid·i·ous (in·vid'e·as) adj.
in·tri.guing Likely to cause ill will, resentment, or hatred:
n. A plot or scheme; They arrested the insur­
invidious remarks attributed to a (lisgrunlled
gents involved in the political intrigue.
employee.
f, To plot: to intrigue against those in
in·vin.ci·ble (in·vin'sa·bill) adj.
command.
Not to be overcome or defeated: invincible
Syn. n. conspiracy. v. conspire.
guerrillas.
in·trin·sic ( in·trin'sik) adj. Spclling tip: The first three vowels are i's;
Belonging to the true or inner nature of a there is 110 able in this word.
thing: First editions are collected for their Syn. unconquerable, indomitable, irresistible.
rarity, 110t for their intrinsic value. Ant. vulnerable, weak, submissive.
Syn. inherent, essential, real, actual. in·vis·j·ble (in·viz'"·b,,l) adj.
in·tro.vert (in'tra·vflrt) 11. Not capable of being seen: The bridge was
A person whose interest is directed toward invisible in the fog.
himself and his thoughts: He was/Do mucn of in·voice (iu'vois) n.; v. in. voiced. in.voidn~
an introvert to be q press agent. n. A list sent to a customer describmg
Ant, exhibitionist. merchandise shipped, including prices: There
in.tu·j·tion (in'tOl).ish'an) n. is an error in the invoice.
Direct knowledge based on an inner feeling v. '1'0 list on an invoice: 1'/te di,}ws were
rather tnan conscious reasoning: Woman's packed and invoiced.
intuition is often accurate.
Syn. instinct, hunch. in·volve (in·volv') v. in·volved, in.voking
To include or draw in; They were involved in
in·tu·j·tive (in·too'a·tiv) adj. his businesl! ven,tures.
ReSUlting from intuition: Her intuitive under­
standing of his unhappiness surprised him. ill·vul.ner·a·ble (in·vul'nar.a·b<ll) adj.
Incapable of being hurt or damaged: The
ill·un·date (in'un·dat) v. in·un·dat·ed, in·un· fortress was thought to be invulnerable.
dat.ing . Syn. invincible, secure, impregnable.
1 To cover by overflowing: The swollen river

- completeiy inundated the small farm. 2 To over­ j·o·dine (j'i)·din or i'a·din) n.

whelm with abundance or excess: 'j'he switch­ 1 A nonmetallic element. 2 All antiseptic.
board was inundated with calls. Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
8yn. 1 flood, submerge.. iodin.
"'''''!$ in·val·i·date (in·val/a.dIU) v. in.vlIl.j·dllt.ed, i·o·ta (Hl'ta) n.
in.vlIl·!·dat·lng 1 The ninth letter of the Greek alpllahet. 2 A
C!!!£7 To make worthless or invalid: His paasport very small amount: It duesn't make an iota of
was invalidated because lie traveled to Cuba. difference wilether you come or not.
~ Syn. annul, discredit, nullify.

Ant. ratify, confir;w. legalize.

Syn. 2 jot, bit.

j·ras·cj·ble (i.ras'a·bal) adj.
c-~ ill' veigh (in. va') 1>.
To make a bitter attack in words: The
Easily provoked to anger: The nurse curn­
plained aboul her irascible and uncooperative

:.
L!!'~
tenement awellers inveighed against e:torbitanl patientB.-i-ras'ci,bil'i.ty n.
rent increases. . Syn. irritable, quick-tempered.

<:-
633
<:
irate
i·rate (i'rat) adj.
Angry: The manager listened to the irate
customer.
Syn. enraged.
ir·i.des·cen~ (ir'a·des'ant) adj. . veneration, or respect: irreverent behavior in
Displaying the colors of the rainbow in shift­
ing hues and patterns: the iridescent glow of
80ap bubb!es.-ir'i.des'cence n.
i·ris (I'ris) n.
1 The colored part of the eye around the
pupil. 2 A plant with long leaves and colorful
".
flowers. 3 The rainbow.
Etymology: Iris is the Greek word for rain­
bow.
I·ro·ny (i'ra·ne.) n., '·ro.nies pl.
1 A sarcastic or humorous way of talking in
which a person means the opposite of what is
said, as "You're welcome' after something
has been taken away by force. 2 Such an
utterance.-i·ron'ic adj.
Syn. sarcasm.
ir·rec·on·cil·a·ble (i·rek'an.sl'I;;·bal) adj.
Not able or willing to be reconciled: irrecon­
cilable factions.
ir·re·cov·er·a·ble (ir'i·kuv'ar·a·bal) adj.
Incapable of being recovered or regained:
Youth is irrecoverable.
Ir·re·duc·i·ble (ir'i.dao'sa·bal) adj.
Not capable of being reduced or made
simpler: an irreducible formula.
ir·rel·e·vant (i·rel'a·vant) adj.
Not related to the subject or topic: She inter­
rupted uith a completely irrelevant comment.
ir·re.me·di·a.ble (ir/i·m~'de·a·bal) adj.
Incapable of being remedied, cured, or
corrected: an irremediable mistake.
Syn. incurable, irreparable, uncorrectable.
Ant. remediable, curable, reparable, correct­
able.
ir·rep.a·ra.ble (j·rep'ar·a·bal) adj.
Incapa ble of being repaired, rectified,
remedied, or made good: irreparable 1088 of
valued antiques destroyed by fire.-ir.rep'a.ra·
blyadv.
Syn. irremediable, irretrievable, irredeem­
able, irrecoverable.
Ant. remediable, retrievable, redeemable,
recoverable.
ir.re.sis·ti·ble (ir'i.zis'ta.bal) adj.
Incapable of being resisted or opposed:
irreststible charm.-ir're.sis'tj.bly adv.
Syn. overwhelming, overpowering, seductive,
alluring.
ir.re·spec·tive (ir'i·spek'tiv) adj.
Existing without regard or relationship to
something else.
Usage: Irrespective is. used in the adverbial
phrase irrespective of, which means regardless
of; independent of.
ir·re·triev.a·ble (ir'i·tre.'va.bal) adj.
Not capable of being retrieved, repaired, or
overcome: an irretrievable I088.-1r're.t.riev'·
a·blyadv.
Syn. irreparable, irrecoverable, irremediable,
incurable. . type: an italic passage.
63~
italic ~
..
Ant. retrievable. recoverable, reparable,
remediable. curable.
ir·rev·er·ent (f·rev'ar·ant) adj.
Characterized by or showing a lack of awe,
church.--ir·rev'er·ence !I., ir.rev'cr.cnt·ly adv.
Syn. disrespectful, irreligious, blasphemous.
Ant. respectful, pious, religious.
ir·reV·Q·ca.ble (i·rev'a·ka· ball adj.
Incapable of being revoked, repealed, or ~
brought back: the irrevocable l)(lst.--ir.rcY'o.
en·blyadv.
Syn. irretrievable, irrecoverable, irreversible, eI~
unalterable.
Ant. retrievable, recoverable, reversible,'"
alterable.
ir·ri·la·ble (ir'a·ta.bal) adj.
.. ~
1 Easily aroused, annoyed, or angered: 11 e ~
was unusually irritable because of (t bad night's
'"
sleep. 2 Responding readily or to an abnormal
degree to stimuli or the environment: an
irritable 7n1.scle.-ir'ri·ta.ble·ness 11., ir'ri·la·
blyadv.
Syn. 1 peevish, snappish, petulant. 2 sensi­
tive, susceptible.
Ant. 1 indifferent, calm, apathetic. 2 insensi­
tive, unsusceptible, insensible.
i·sin·glass (j'zjng·glas' or I'z"n.glas') H.
1 A preparation of nearly pure gelatin made
from the bladders of certain fishes. 2 Another
name for mica, a mineral that forms thin,
easily separated layers that arc tough,
flexible, and often transparent.
isle (II) n.
An island. especially one of comparatively
small size.
is·n't (iz'ant) contraction
Is not: Isn't he going?
Spelling tip: The apostrophe stands for the
omitted 0, so it must be placed between the 11
and the t.
i·so·late (i'sa.lilt) v. i·so·lat·ed, i·so·lat·ing
To aet apart, as from a mass, group, or
situation; cause to be alone: to isolate a
person who has a communicable disease.­
J'so.Ja'tion n., i'so.lafed adj.
Syn. separate, segregate, quarantine, eKclude.
Ant. jam, connect, integrate, include.
j·sos·ce·les (l·sos'a·l~z) adj.
In geometry A word used to describe a
triangle having two sides of equal length.
i·so·tope (i'sa·tOp) n.
Any of two or more forms of an element that
have the same atomic number and similar
chemical properties but differ in mass
number and radioactive behavior.
isth·mus Oa'mes} n.
A narrow piece of land extending into a body
of water and connecting two larger land
masses: the Isthmus of Panama.
j·tal·ic (i·tal'ik) n., adj.
n. Usually pl. A style of type in which the
letters slant upward to the right: These words
are printed i1l italics.
adj. Designating or printed in such a style of

Hin.er·ant (Hin'ar-ant) adj., n.
adj. Wandering or traveling from place to
place, as in search of employment or to fulfill
official duties: an itinerant preacher.
n. A person who wanders or travels from
too frankly.
place to place.
Syn. imperil, risk, endanger.
Syn. adj. roving, nomadic. n. nomad,
Ant. safeguard. protect. guard.
migrant.
jeop·ar.dy (jep'or·de) n.
j-(in·er.ar·y (Hin'a·rer'e) n., j·tin·er·ar·ies pl.
t A plan for or the route to be followed on a
journey. 2 A detailed account or record of a
journey. 3 A guidebook for travelers.
its (its) pron.
The possessive form of it: The tree has lost
its leaves.
Spelling Up: Don't confuse its with the
contraction it's (meaning it is or it has).
it's (its) contraction
1 It is: It's two o'clock. 2 It has: It's been two
years since I la8t saw her.
jack·al (jak'al) n.
A doglike mammal of Africa or Asia that
hunts in packs and feeds on small animals
and carrion.
jad.ed (ja'did) adj.
Dulled or wearied, as from having too much,
eating too much, drinking too much, etc.
Syn, satialed\ bored, surfl:ited.
Ant. excited, teen, titillated.
jag·uar (jag'war) n.
A large, tawny, spotted cat of Central and
South America.
jar·goll (jar'gan) n. . favors an aggressive foreign policy.
1 Confused, unintellillible speech. 2 A mixture
of two or more dIssimilar languages, as
Pidgin English. 3 The technical or specialized
vocabulary used by the members of a partic­
ular profession, sect, etc., when communicat­
ing among themselves: legal jargon.
jas.mine (jaz'min or jas'min) )1.
Any of various shrubs having very fragrant
white, red, or yellow flowers.
jaullt (jont) n., v.
n. A short journey, especially for pleasure: a
jaunt to the country.
v. To make such a journey: to jaunt to the sea­
shore for a qay of swimming.
jave.lin (jav'(a)lin) n.
1 A light spear thrown as a weapon. 2 A long
spear with a wooden shaft, thrown for
distance in an athletic contest.
jeal.ous ( jel'as) adj.
1 Fearful or suspicious of being displnced by a
~
-­ rival in affection or favor: jealous every lime
his girl friend even looked at another man.
2 Hostile toward someone because 01 what he
is, has, etc.; envious: jealou8 of his brother's
wealth. 3 Careful in guardIng or watching: 10
4!-:!!!!l!!;I be jealous of one's repulalion.-jeal'ous·y n.,
jeal'QUB.ly adv.
<.9$
Je·ho·vah <ii·ho/va) n.
w. To engage in Buch combat.
<:'­
c:~
. In the Old Testament, a name for God.
Syn. n., V. tourney, tilt.
joust
jeop.ard·ize (jep'ar.diz) v. jeop.ard.ized, jeop.
ard.\Z.lng
To expose to injury. loss, or failure: He jeop­
ardized his chances of being elected by speaking
Danger of death. loss, injury, failure, etc.: 10
put one's hfe in jeopardy by an act of bravado.
Syn. peril, ri~k, hazard.
Ant. saiety, security, sanctuary.
jest (jest) n., v.
n. t Something said or done to provoke
laughter: Iii. com/anticsl" kepi lite p"rly "live.
2 A spirit of playfulne:;s; a frivolous mood:
Many serious things are said in jest.
v. To speak or act in a joking, playful, or
frivolous way: jesting aboul his own failures.
Syn. n. 1 joke, quip, prank, antic. v. joke,
quip, caper, frolic.
jet·{i·son ( jet'a·san) v.
1 To drop or throw overboard auxiliary
equipnlent, cargo, etc.: 7'lIe airplane jettisoned
ils auxiliary fuel before makil.g an emergency
landing. 2 To throwaway or get rid o[ any­
thing tl,at hinders or burdens; 'I'he inhulmwe
boss jettisoned his employees as SOU11 as /hey
neared retirement age.
Syn. 2 eliminate, abandon, forsake.
jew·c1·ry (jill/al·ril) ...
Articles of personal adun,mtmt, as rings,
necklaces, brooches, etc.
jin.go (jing'gO) 71., jln.goes pl.
A person who boasts of his patriotism and
jin·go·ism (jing'go·iz'am) n.
Loud, boastful patriotism or chauvinism,
especially when accompanied by demands for
an aggressive foreign policy.
jo·cose (ja·kOs') adj.
Characterized by, like, or dispose,l to jesting
or joking: ajocosepersonality.-jo.cose Iyadv.
Syn. jocular, playful.
Ant. serious, solemn.
joc·u·lar (iok'ya·lor) adj.
1 Given to joking: The jocular newcomer was
the life of the party. 2 Having the nature of a
joke: A jocular remark destroyed Ihe serious
tone of the conversation.-joc'u.lar'i.ly n., joe'.
u·lar.Jy adv.
Syn. I jesting, waggish. 2 humorous, witty.
joie de vi·vre (zhwa da vev'r')
A French phrase meaning joy oi living: The
old man's joic de !livre was Ihe envy of IIwny
younger associates.
jour.ney.man (jur'nl>·mon) 71., jour.ney·men
pI.
A worker who hu. completed his appron! ice­
ship in a skilled trade or eraf L.
joust (joust or just) n., v.
n. A formal combat between two mounted
knights armed with lances.
635


jowl
jowl (joul) n.
The fleshy part under the lower jaw.
especially when it iII fat and pendulous.
ju·bi.la.tion (joo'ba·lii'shan) n.
Rejoicing; eXUltation: the jubilation of a
candidate's supporters after he was elected.
Syn. delight, elation.
Ant. unhappiness, depression.
judg.ment (juj'm~ntl n.
1 The act or result of hearing and deciding
cases, as by a judge in a court of law. 2 The
ability to make wise decisions: a man u,ilh
vision and judgment. 3 A disaster or mis­
fortune regarded as a punishment for sin.
Spelling tip; Words ending in a silent e
usually retain the e before adding -menl (as
in management or movement). However,
there are four notable exceptions in American
usage: abridgment, acknowledgment, argu­
ment, and judgment.
ju.di.ci·ar.y (joo·dish'e·er'e or joo·dish'a·re) 11.,
ju·di·ci.ar.ies pl.; adj.
n. 1 The department of government that
administers the law. 2 The system of courts
Bet up to carry out this function. 3 Judges as
a group.
adj. Of or having to do with courts, judges, or
the ~udgments made in courts of law:
judiCIary protocol.
To place close together; put side by side: 'J.'/te
ju·di.cious (joo·dish'as) adj.
deslgneT juxtaposed clashing colors to attain a
1 Hllving, showing, or exercising good
judgment: a judicious executive. 2 Proceeding
from or done with good judgment: a judicious
deciaion.-ju.di' clouB.ly adv., ju.dl'ciouB·nesB
n.
Byn. 1. 2 wise, sensible.
Etymology: Kaiser, as well as czar, is derived
Ant. 1. 2 unwise.
from the Latin word Caesar, the name given
jug·u·lar (jug'ye.);,r) 'II., adj.
to many Roman emperors following Gaius
n. One of the large veins on either side of the
Julius Caesar.
neck that returns blood from the brain, neck,
ka·lei·do.scope (ka·!i'da·sklip) n.
and face to the heart.
1 A tube-shaped optical toy that shows con­
adj. Of or having to do with the throat or a
stantly changing symmetrical patterns as
jUgular vein.
loose bits of colored glass are moved about
ju.jit.su (joo·jit'soo) 11.
A Japanese system 01 hand-to-hand fighting
in' which surprise and a knowledge of anat­
omy and leverage are used to overcome the
weight and strength of one's opponent.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled jiujitsu
lind jiujutsu.
june·ture (jungk'char) n.
1 A point or line where things are joined; a
joint or seam; the juncture of the finger and the
palm. 2 A point in time, especially one at
which a cdtical decision must ue made: At
Ihis Juncture, the U.N. mud attempt to resolve
the Mideast problem.
jun.ket (jung'kit) 'II., v.
n. 1 A mild-flavored pudding like dessert
made with milk and sugar and coagulated
with rennet. 2 A [east, banquet, party,
pleasure trip, outing, etc.: a weekend junket
to the country. 3 An excursion lor which all
expenses arc paid, especially one made by a
public official at public expense: a prcss
Junket made in conuection with the opening of
an important new motion picture.
636
..
..
keynote
..
..
v. To go on or take part in a junket.
Syn. n. 3 tour. v. trave!.
jun·ta (iun'to; Spanish hoon'ta) n.
A group of persons who band together fol'
some secret purpose, especially for political
intrigue.
Spelling tif.: This word may also be spelled
junto Oun to).
Syn. cabal, faction.
ju·ris·dic.tion (j06r'is·dik'shan) n.
..
1 The legal right to exercise official authority.
2 The extent of such authority, or the 1/
territory within which it may be lawfully
exercised. 3 The power of those persons who
exercise such authority.
ju·ris.pru·dence (j06r'is·prood'ns) 11.
1 The philosophy or science of law and its
administration. 2 A system of laws.
ju.ve.nile Ooo'va·nal or joo'v<l·nll) adj., n. to
adj. 1 Youthful, young, or immature: lie is
constautly crilicizedfoT his juvenile approach to
life. 2 Designed or proper for a young
person; juvenile books.
n. 1 A young person; youth. 2 A book for
young persons.
jux.ta·pose ( iuks'ta·poz') v. jux·ta.posed, jux.
ta.pos·ing
dramatic effect.-jux'ta.po.si'tion 11.
K
kai·8cr (l<l'z~r) n.
An emperor: the German Kaiser.
under a set of mirrors. 2 A swiftly changing
scene, patLern, etc.; As we flew CT£tss-country
we saw a kaleidodcope of land formations.
ka·lei·do.scop.ic (ka·!i'dij·Hkop'ik) adj.
Constantly and swiftly changing like the
patterns in a kaleidoscope; her kaleidoscopic
moads.
Byn. shifting, fluid.
Ant. steady, constant.
kan·ga·roo (kang'ga·roo') n.
A plant-eating animal native 10 All~tralia
that has short, weak forelegs, strong hind legs
used for leaping, and a long, thick tail;
Female hmgaroas carry their young inpDuches.
Syn. wallaby.
ker·o·sene (ker'a·sen Dr "er',j·sen') II.
An oil distilled from petroleum and used as
a fuel in lamps, stoves, and some engines.
key·note (ke'not') n.
The basic idea of a philosophy, political plat­
form, literary work, etc.: Personrl/ liberty is
the keynote of A.merican deJilocracy.
Byn. theme, nub.
khaki
khak.j (kak'e or kii!ke) 71., adj.
n. 1 A color ranging from light sand to me­
turning, and pulling with the hands: She
dium brown. 2 A sturdy cotton cloth of this
kneaded the dough. 2 '1'0 massage by thumps
color, usually used for uniforms: work panls
and squeezes with the hands: 'l'he maSSe1<T
of khaki. 3 pI. A uniform made of khaki cloth:
kneaded the soft flesh.
a soldier wearing his khakis.
knick·er·bock·ers (nik'ar·bok'erz) n.pl.
adj. Of the color khaki: a khaki shirt.
Wide, short breeches gathered below the
kid.nap (kid'nap) v. kid.naped or kid.napped,
kid.nap.jng or kid.nap·ping
To abduct forcefully or fraudulently, often
for ransom.-kid'nap·er or kid'nap.per n.
kiln (kil or kiln) n.
An oven or furnace used for baking pottery,
bricks, etc.: to fire a vase in a kiln.
kil·Q·me·ter (kil'a·me'tar or ki-lom'a·tar) /l.
A trifling article; a trinket: to arrallge china
In the metric system, 1000 meters.
dogs and oiher knickknacks on II shelf.
ki·mo·no (ka·mO'na or ki·mo'no) n.
1 A loose robe fastened with a wide sash,
worn in Japan as an outer garment by both
men and women. 2 A woman's robe that
resembles such a garment.
Syn. 2 dressing gown, housecoat.
kin.der.gar·ten (kin'dar·gar'ten) 11.
A school or class for young children, usually
between the ages of four and six, in which
activities include games, singing, handicrafts,
group play, etc.
ki·net·ic ( ki-net'ik) adj.
Pertaining to or involving motion: kinetic
energy.
Ant. static.
kins·man (kinz'man) n., kins·men pI.
A male relative: his cousins and other kinsmen
and kinswomen.
ki·osk (ke.osk', ke'osk, or ki'osk)n.
A lightly constructed open booth generally
used as a newsstand.
kis·met (kiz'met or kia'met) II.
Fate: People who believe in kismet think they
cannot escape their destinies.
Etymology: Kismet is the English translitera­
tion of gismet, the Turkish word meaning
fate.
Syn. destiny, predestination.
Syn. mound, hillock, hummock.
Ant. chance. accident, luck.
klep·to.ma.ni.a (klep'tg·ma'ne·a) n.
know (no) v. knew, known, know·ing
The compulsion to steal.
1 'fo be Ilware of or to have the facts about:
klep.tQ.ma.ni.ac (klep'ta.ma'nl)·ak) n.
A person with an irresistible and persistent
desire to steal.
knack (uak) n.
The ability to learn something eff.ortlessly
and do it skillfully: a knack for carpentry.
Syn. talent, aptitude.
knap·sack (uap'sak') 1/.
A case or bag worn strapped across the
shoulders and used for carryiug equipment
and supplies.
Syn. rucksack, haversack.
knave (nav) n.
1 A dishonest or dishonorable man; a scoun­
drel: Don't trust him-he's a knave. 2 A play­
ing card (the jack).
SY8. 1 rogue, rascal.
knead (ned) v.
1 To mix and work dough, clay, etc., into a
laboratory
mass of uniform consistency by pressing,
knee.
Etymology: This word came from Diedrich
Knickerbocker. the fictitious Dutch author of
Washington Irving'S History of New York,
because knickerbockers resemble Dutch
breeches.
knick·knack (nik'nak) n.
Syn. trifle, gewgaw, bagatelle.
knit (nit) v. knit or knit·ted, knit·tin!!; n.
11. 1 To form a fabric or garment by mterlock­
ing loops of a single yarn: to knit a sweater.
2 To fasten or unite closely and firmly, or to
reunite or mend: 11i" broken bone ",,,itted ",ell.
3 To draw the brow together into wrinkles;
to knit one's brows in thought.
n. The fabric or garment made by knitting:
a wool knit.
Syn. v. 3 furrow, contract, plJ.cker.
knob (nob) n.
1 A rounded handle, as for opening a door.
2 Any rounded protuberance; a lump: a knob
on the tree trunk,
Syn. 2 swelling, knurl.
knock (lIok) n., v.
n. A sharp rapping sound: a klwck at the door.
v. 1 To make a sharp rapping noise, as by
striking with the knuckles: to knock on a door.
2 To make a pounding or clanking noise, as
an engine with faulty trantimission: tlte car is
old and the engine knocks. 3 To bump or strike:
to knock a man down. 4 I 1IforJllai To disparage,
criticize, or belittle: Don't knock her efforts
at self-improvement.
knoll (nol) n.
A small; round hill: a grassy knoll.
Do you know what happened? 2 To be familiar
with or acquainted with: I have blOwn her
for years. 3 To be certain of: I bww the sun
uill rise lomorrolV. 4 To be able to identify
or to be able to distinguish between: to know
Ihe difference between right (1nd 'wroIlY·
knowl·edge (!loi'ii) n.
1 Awareness or recognition of: A bab'Y has no
knowledge of right and wrong. 2 What some­
one knows: llis knowledge is limited.
kum·quat (kum'kwot) n. or cum.quat
A small (,rangelike fruit with a sllUl' puip and
edible rind, or the tree that bears this fruit.
----=------------~
lab·Q·ra·to·ry (lab'ra·tur'e or lab'r;Ho're) n.
iab·o·ra·to·ri,,:;; pl.
A building or room equipped for scientific
experiments, analyses, tissue and blood
637
 lateral
examinations, etc.: to conduct an experiment la·men·ta·ble (Iam'an·ta·bal or la·ment'a·bal)
in a laboratory. adj.
!a·bo.ri.ous (la.bar'e·as or la·bo'rlHls) adj. Bail or unfortunate enough to warrant regret
1 Requiring much hard work: Digging a trench or pity: a shocking and lamentable failure.
is a laborious task. 2 Hard-working; indUll­ Syn. deplorable, distressing, sorrowful.
trious: A laborious worker earns quick lam.poon (Iam·p60n') n., v.
promotions. n. A written attack using humor to provoke
Syn. 1 strenuous, difficult. 2 diligent,
contempt: The losing coach was the object of a
assiduous.
lampoon in the college paper.
Ant. 1 easy, effortless. 2 lazy, feckless.
v. To attaek in a lampoon.

lab.y.rinth (Iab'a.rinth) n. Syn. n. satire, mockery. v. satirize, ridicule.

. 1 An arrangement of winding, intricate pas­ lan·guid (lang'gwid) adj•

sages or paths designed to confuse whoever Lacking energy or spirit: She extended her
tries to go through and find the exit. 2 By hand in a languid gesture of welcome.
extension. any intricate, perplexing, hard­ Syn. weak, listless.
to-solve problem. condition, etc.: The three­ Ant. energetic.
page labyrinth of instructions was utterly lan·guor (lang'gar) n.
confusing. A lack of energy or enthusiasm: the languor of
Syn. maze.
patients conualescing from serious i!lnesses.~­
lab.y.rin.thine (lab'a·rin'thin or lab'a·rin'­
Ian'guor.ous adj.
then) adj.
8yn. listlessness, lassitude.
Pertaining to a maze, or as intricate and
Ant. vivacity, liveliness.
perplexing as a maze: a labyrinthine geometry
lap·i·dar.y (lap'il·der'e) n.
problem.
A wQrkman who cuts, engraves, or polishes
Syn. baffling, complicated.
precious stones.
Ant. simple, uncomplicated.
lapse (laps) n.; v. lapsed, laps·iug
lack·a·dai·si·cal (lak',,·da'zi·k;;l) adj. n. 1 An error or slip: a lapse of taste. 2 An
Languid; listless: Everyone moves in a lacka­ interval; pause: a lapse of time.
daisical manner in verll hot weather. v. 1 To pass gradually: to lapse into a coma.
Syn. enervated, sluggISh, half-hearted.
2 To become void: His insurance policy
Ant. energetic, peppy, animated.
lapsed when he did not pay the premium.
la·con·ic (Ia·kon'ik) adj.
lar·ce·ny (Jar'sa·ne) Jl., lar:ce-nies pI.
Brief and concise: a laconic summary.
The unlawful taking of another person's
Syn. terse, pithy.
property: fIe was charged 7vith grand larceny.
Ant. wordy, verbose, redundant.
-Iar'ce·nous adj., lar'ce.nous-Iy adv.
8yn. theft.
la.ger (Ia'gar) n.
A beer stored for sedimentation before use: lar.gess (Jar-jea') n.
Drink lager frotn a stein. Liberal giving: The poor used to depend on the
largess of the wealthy for fooi! and clothing.
lag.gard (Iag'ard) n., adj.
n, One who is slow and usually falls behind; a lar.i·at (lar'e·at) n.
straggler: Everyone except a few laggards 1 A rope used to tie an animal to a stake
finished the task in twenty minutes. while grazing. 2 A lasso.
adj. Falling behind; sla w or delayed: The lar·va (lar'vo) n., lar.vae (lar'vil) pl.
laggard pD8tma~ never delivered our mail until An insect in its early stage of developmen~.
late afternoon. lar.yn·gi·iis (Iar'an.ji'tis) Jl.
Syn. n. slowpoke, dawdler. adj. tardy. Inflammation of the larynx: The singer Iwd
Ant. adj. fast, prompt, punctual. laryngitis, so tile performance was canceled.
la·gniappe (Ian'yap or lan·yap') n. lar·ynx (Iar'ingks) 11., la.ryn·ges or lar.ynx.espl.
A small gift given to a customer by a mer­ The upper part of the respiratory tract

chant: The grocer gave small boxes of candy containing the vocal cords.

as lagniappes. las·civ·j·ous (Ia·siv'i)·as) adj. I

Syn. gratuity, bonus, tip. Having or arousing sexual desires: :I'he piay ~
lais·sez faire (Ies'a Ur') was denoullced as beillg lewd and lascivious.
A doctrine opposing government control or Syn. lustfuL

interference in economic affairs. Ant. chaste, innocent.

la·j·ty (Ui.'a.til) n. las.si·tude (Ias'a,t(y)60d) n.

The people who are not members of the
clergy or of a specific profession: Such prob­
lems 1)lUst be decided by medical men and not
l}te laity,'
Syn. laymen.
lamb (lam) n.
A young sheeJ>.
Spelling tip: Watch the silent II in worqs such
as lamb, bomb, comb, and dumb.
A state of weariness or fatigue: A deep
lassitude overcame her, and she slept.
la·tent (la'toni) adj_
Present but not visible or active: the latent
force of an atomic bomb.
Syn. dormant, potential, abeyant.
lat·er·al (Iat'ar·al) adj.
Situated at, occurring, or coming from the
side: a lateral pass.

63&
lathe
lathe (Iii til) )L.
A machine used to hold and turn an article
against a cutting tool 80 as to shape it.
lat·i·tude (lat'a·t(y)iiOd) n.
1 Distance north and south of the Equator.
2 l"reedom from restriction: Seniors are
allowed a certain latitude by the faculty.
lat·ter (lat'er) adj.
1 Nearer to the end: reading the latier part of
the book. 2 Being the second of two things
referred to: Chocolate and vanilla ice cream are
equally popular, but do you prefer the laller?
Ant. former. first.
laud·a·ble (lad'a·bal) adj.
Deserving praise: Caring for foster children is
a laudable occupation.
Syn. commendable, admirable.
laud.a·tory (l&'da·t6r'e) adj.
Expressing or containing praise: a laudatory
speech commending the astronauts.
Syn. complimentary.
legend under the map explains the symbols.
Ant. derogatory.
Syn. 1 saga, myth.
launch (l6nch) V" n.
leg·en·dar.y (lei'an·der'e) adj.
v. 1 To move or push a vessel into the water,
especially for the first time: The battleship was
launched on Saturday. 2 '1'0 start off; be\1;in:
to launch an attack on crime. 3 To set forcibly
in motion: They plan to launch the rocket at
noon.
n. A motor-driven pleasure boat.
lau·rel (lor'al) 11.
An honor or distinction gained by outstand­
ing achievement: Hi.< promotion added
aWI!her lau reI to his career.
Syn. decoration, prize, trophy..
lav·ish (lav'ish) adj., v.
adj. Generous to the point of being excessive:
Such lavish hospitality shocked the neighbors.
11. To give generously: She lavished affection
'fa make a la w or la W8: COllgr,,"" is tlte brunch
on her family and fricHds.
of government that legislutes.
Syn. adj. profuse. bounteous. v. shower.
leg·is·la·lure (lei'is·la'char) 71.
Ant. adj. limited. v. withhold.
The lawmaking body of a nation or state.
lay (Iii) v. laid, lay·ing; adj.
v. 1 '1'0 put or place: IJay your keys all the
table. 2 To construct, produce, or establish
as a basis ur support: to lay the groundwork.
3 To settle: Water helped lay the dust. " To
set; prepare: Lay the table Jor dinner.
adj. 1 Having to do with the laity as opposed
to the clergy: a la.y preacher. 2 Not belonlling
to or endorsed by a learned profeSSIOn:
Solicit both expert and lay opinions.
lead (led) v. led, lead.ing; It.
v. 1 To go with or ahead of in order to show
the way: The guide led Ihe tourists. 2 1'0
control the' actions of. or to command or
influence greatly: to le"d (! child by tlw ""nd;
10 lead a cu!tlltry. 3 '1'0 be 11rst: The }',wkees
are leadinQ in the pennant race. 4 '1'0 be a way
or a ea use: I <ilene.s lead. to bor~do III.
n. 1 The act of commanding or guiding:
Follow his lead. 2 A starring role, or the
performer playing it: Cary Grant played the
male lead. 3 The distance or amount by
which one is ahead or winning: 'J'he home run
increased their lead. 4 Indication; clue: 'Phe
detectives searched for some lead.
lens
league (le~) n.
An assocIation of persons, organizations, or
states, formed for some common purpose: the
League of Nations.
Syn. alliance.
lech·er.y (lech'a.re) n., lech·er·ies 1'1.
Unrestrained and excessive sexual indulgence.
Syn. lasciviousness, debauchery.
Ant. celibacy, chastity.
lec·tern (Iek'tarn) n.
A stand having a sloping, shelfJike surface
on which a lecturer standing behind it can
place books, papers, etc.: The speaker ~too<l
behin<l the lectern.
ler·end (lei'and) n.
An unauthenticated story from very early
times preserved by tradition and popularly
thought to be historical: tile legends about
Charlemagne. 2 A title or caption. as accom­
panying an illustration, diagram, etc.: The
Pertaining to, of the nature of, or famous in
a legend: the legendary adventure.; of Robin
Hood.
Syn. mythical, fabled.
leg·i·ble (h;j',,·b01) adj.
Clearly written or printed; easy to fead:
large, very legible type.~~leg/i.!Jil'j.ty 11., leg'i·
blyadv.
Syn. readable. distinct, bold.
Ant. blurred, faint. unclear.
le.gion.naire (le'j."dir') It.
A member of any military or honorary
organization called a legion.
leg·is.late (lej'is·liit) v. leg·is·lat·ed, leg·is·lat·
ing
lei·sure (I<:;'"h"r or lezh'vr) l!.
Time a vailable for recrea \ion and relaxation:
After lie retired he did not know 'what to <10 wilh
So much leisure.
leit·mo·tif Oit'm/Hi!!') n.
In music A theme that represents a eertain
person, event. emotion. or idea throughout an
opera, <:tc.: tile leitmolif of a eharac/a in a
Wagnenan opera.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
leilmotiv.
length (lengkth or lenth) 11.
1 Linear extent from end to end, as distin­
guished from width and thiclmes$: 'Phe
length of the siring is t·u·o in,'j,t's. 2 Extent or
duration from beginning to end: the lenuth of
a book ..
le·ni·ent (le'ne~ant or len'YJnl) udj.
Gentle or merciful; mild: The lenient ju<lge
gave him a suspended sen ten ce.
Syn. easygoing, tolerant.
Ant. severe, han;h.
lens (lenz) 71.
1 A piece of glass or other transparent
639
leopard
substance that makes rays of light conver~e
or diverge, or two or more such pieces III
combination: a microscope lena. 2 The part
behind the iris of the eye that focuses images
on the retina.
leop·ard (iep'ard) n.
A carnivorous mammal of the cat family,
which has a ta wny coat with clusters 01 dark
brown or black spots.
le·sion (le'zhan) n.
Any abnormal or harmful change in the
structure of an organ or tissue: a lesion of the
kidney.
less·en (les'an) v.
To decrease: The drug lessened his pain.
Syn. reduce, diminish.
Ant. increase, augment.
Ie·thal (Ie/thaI) adj.
Syn. 1 contact, link.
Causing death: a lethal blow.
Ii· bel (Wbal) n.; v.li·beled or Ii.belled, Ii.bel.jng
Syn. fatal, deadly, mortal.
or Ii.bel.ling
le·thar·gic (!i·thar'jik) adj.
Apathetic and drowsy; sluggish: On hot,
humid days people fee! lethargic.-!eth·ar.gy
(leth'ar'i~) n.
Syn. languid, listless ..
or having made such a statement.
Ant. energetic, peppy.
v. To make such a statement or drawing
let·tuce Oet'is) n.
A cultivated herb having crisp, edible leaves,
01
or the leaves of such a plant.
leu·ke·mi·a (loo·ke'me·a) n.
are slander.
Cancer of the blood.
lev·ee (lev'e) n.
l An embankment, e~pecially alon\: the shore
of a river, built for protection agamst floods.
2 An official reception given by a person of
high rank early in the day; formerly, an
official audience held by a person of high
rank before or upon rising from bed: the
king's levee.
lev·er (lev'ar or le'var) n.
. I A device consisting of a rigid bar pivoting
on a fixed support and used to pry up
/lea vier objects: Use the lever 10 lift Ihe heavy
mass of iron. 2 A bar that operates on this
principle: A crowbar is a type of lever. :I Any
means of exerting effective power: Lobbyists
l'se muney as a lever. . impunity is not lib~rty but lic€llse. 3 Relaxa­
lev·er.age (lev'ar·ii or le'var-ij) n.
The use of a lever, or the power exerted by
using a lever: enough leverage to move a rock.
le.vi·a·than (la,vl'a·than) n., adj.
n. 1 A gigantic water beast mentioned Ii·chen
several times in the Bible. 2 Any enormous
creature or thing: a leuiathan of a ship.
adj. Gigantic: COlllpili1!g a dictiotlary is a
leviathan job.
lewd (loDd) adj.
I Characterized by lust or debauchery: a
lewd, cuil-minded -man. 2 Obscene: a lewd joke.
Syn. 1 lustful, lecherous, lascivious. 2 in­
decent, bawdy. . A German song, especially a l¥illad or love
Ant. 1 pure, strait·laced. 2 decent, refined.
lex·i·con (lek'se·kon) n.
! A dictionary, especially a dictionary of
640
Hen
Greek, Latin, or Hebrew. 2 A list of words
relating to a particular subiect: an enyineer­
ing lexicon.
Ii·a·bil·i·ty (li'a·bil'a·te) n., Ji·a·bil·i.ties pl.
1 The state or condition of being legally
responsible, as for debts or damages: Each
me-mber of a corporation has limited financial
liability. 2 An obslacle in the way of SUCcess:
Lack of confidence is a liability to an aclor. 3 pI.
Entries on a balance sheet showing debts.
Syn. 1 responsibility, accountability. 2 dis­
advantage, handicap.
Ii·ai·son (le'a,zon', HH1;'zon, or le'a·zon) n.
1 A means for maintaining communication,
or the act or state of such communication:
A.n ambassador is the official liaison bellveen
tu/O governments. 2 A love affair: a liaison
lastinr; twenty-five years.
n. 1 A false or malicious written statement or
drawing, especially a published one, that
damages a person's reputation or exposes
him to public ridicule. 2 The act of making •
about: 'The jury ruled that the author had
libeled Mr. X.-li'bel.ous adj.
Usage: Libel denotes written delamation of
character. Defamatory remarks made orally
lj·bid.i·nous(!i·bid'a·nas) a dj.
Characterized by excessive sexual uesire: a
man so libidinous that any woman excited him.
Syn. lustful, lecherous.
Ant. pure, chaste, ascetic.
Ii·bi·do (ii.he'dO or li·bj'dO) n.
1 In psychoanalysis The instinctual craving
or drive behind all human activities. 2 Sexual
desire or impUlse.
li·cense (li'sens) 11.; v. Ii.cansed. li·eens·ing
n. 1 An official document giving permission
to engage in some activity, own something,
etc.: Renew yO"lir driver's license. 2 Excessive,
unrestrained freedom that constitutes an
abuse of liberty: /<'rteJo'm to murder witli
tion of-the usual rules or restraints, especially
for artistic effect: poetic license.
v. To grant a license to or for: Each state
licenses automobiles.
(1I'kan) n.
Any of various flowerless plants composed
of algae and fungi growing in fiat, greenish
gray, brown, yellow, or black patches on
rocks, trees, etc.
lie.o·rice (Iik'.;·ris or lik'rish) n.
A perennial herb, the dried root or extract of
this plant, or a candy made from it.
lied (1M; German let) n., Iied·er pl.
poem set to music.
lien (len) n.
A legal right to claim or dispose of property
lieu
in paymel1t of or as security for a debt: The
ba.nk has a lien on his estate.
Syn. claim.
lieu (100) n.
Stead; place (now used only in the phrase in
lieu of): I'll take time off in lieu of overtime pay.
lieu·ten·ant (Ioo·ten'ant) n.
1 A military rank. 2 A person able to perform
the duties of his superior, either in the latter's
absence or under his direction.
Jj:tymology: This word comes from lieu (place)
+ tenant (to hold): someone who holds the
place of someone else.
light.ning ( lit'ning) n.
A sudden flash of light caused by a discharge
of electricity between two clouds or between
a cloud and the Earth.
Spelling note: There is no e in this word and
there are only two syllables.
like·ly (Ilk'i(l) adj. like·li·cr, like·li·est; adv.
adj. 1 Having or showing a tendency (to);
apt (to): He i8likely to forget our dale. 2 Plaus­
ible: a likely explanation. 3 Imminent; prob­
able: His promotion is likely.
adv. Probably: She will likely be early.
Ii·lac (li'lak) n., adj.
n. A shrub bearing fragrant purplish or white
Literate or educated persons collectively: He
flowers.
was highly esteemed by the literati of Paris.
adj. Having the purple color of lilac blossoms.
Syn. intelligentsia, scholars, avant-garde.
lirn·pid ( lim'pidl adj.
1 Not cloudy: a limpid pool of water. 2 Cleur
and simple, as in style: a. writer of limpid
verse.
Syn. 1 transparent. 2 lucid, logical.
Iit·j·ga.!ion (lit'a.ga'shan) n.
Ant. 1 foggy. 2 vague.
The act or ~rocess of bringin~ or carrying on
lin.e-age (lin'e·ij) n.
Line of descent: He ·was of royal lineage.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse lineage with
linage. Lirwge, which can also be spelled
lineage, refers to the number of lines ill
written or printed matter and is pronounced
(lin'ij).
Syn. ancestry. family, stock.
lin·e·a·rnent (lin'e·a·mant) n.
A facial feature or contour: 'The deep linea­
ments of his face e~'iderlced a hard life.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse this word wilh
liniment, a liquid preparation ttl relieve pain
and stiffness.
lin·ger·ie (ian'zh,,·rl!or lan'zh,,·ra) n.
Women's underwear or nightwear: That shop
specializes in stockings and lingerie.
lin.guist (ling'gwist) n.
1 A person who speaks several languages.
2 An expert or student of linguistics.
lin·guis·tics (ling·gwis'tiks) n.
loalh to gel np in the mvrninv.
The scientific study of language.
Syn. averse, disinclined.
Syn. philology.
Ant. willing, eager.
li·queur (Ii.kiir') n.
A sweet alcoholic liquor: cherry liqueur.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse this word with
liquor, meaning any alcoholic beverage.
Syn. cordial.
loathe
liq·ui·date (lik'we·dat) v. Iiq.ui.dat·ed, liq.ui.
dat.ing
1 To payoff or settle, as a debt: Afler twenty
years the mortgage was finally liquidated. 2 To
convert into cash, as securities: IIe liquidated
his stock and put the money in his checking
account.-liq'ui·da'tion 1'.
liq·uor (lik'ar) n.
I An alcholic beverage, as whiskey, rum, etc.
2 Any liquid, as broth, juice, etc.
lisle (Iii) n.
A fine twisted cotton thread, or a fabric
made from it.
lis·sorne (lis'am) adj.
Moving with. ease and grace: the lissollw body
of the Swedish starlet.
Syn. lithe, supple, agile.
Iit·a·ny (lit'a.ne) n., Iit·a.nies pI.
A form of prayer consisting of a series of
supplicatiolls by the minister with responses
by the congregation: the litany for the dead.
\i·ter (le't"r) n.
In the metric system, a measure of capacity
equal to the volume of one kilogram of water
or of 1.0567 quarts liquid measure.
lit·e·ra·ti (lil'a·ra'te or lit'a·ra'te) II.pl.
lithe (lall) adj.
Bending easily or gracefully: the lithe body of
a tmined dancer ...--Iithe ' ly ade.• Iithe'ness n.
Syn. supple, pliant, limber.
a lawsuit: :1 he estatell'aS in litlgatiun for years.
lit·ur·gy (Iit'ar·je) n., lit·ur.gies pI.
In various religions, the prescribed forms or
rituals for public worship.
Iive·li·hood (Ilv'11HlOod) n.
Means of supporting oneself: Do you earn
your own livelihood?
Syn. living. maintenance, support.
Iive·li·ness (Uv'\(!·nas) n.
The quality of being full of energy or motion:
tile liveliness of a fast dance.
Syn. animation, bounce, vivacity.
Ant. quietness, lethargy.
loan (Ion) 11.. v.
n. Something lent, especially a sum of money
lent at interest, or the act of lending.
v. To lend: Do,,'t loan money to a friend.
Ant. v. borrow.
loatll (loth) a(/j.
Very reluetant; 11l1willillg: Many pwplc arc
loathe (l()~h) v. loathed, loath.jng
To feel great hatred or disgust for: I loathe
slimy snakes!
Syn. detest, abhor, abominate.
Alit. like. love, admit'C.
641
 -
loathsome macadam
I()ath·some (Iot;h'sam) adj. sun or the moon: the luminaries of the night

C<Repulsive; arousing disgust: the loathsome sky. 2 A very famous person: Hollywood

stench of rotting garbage. luminaries.

Byn. disgusting, revolting.

SYll. 2 celebrity, star.
Ant. agreeable, pleasant.
lu·mi·naus (loo'ma<nas) adj.
lo.cale (lo·kal') n. Full of light or giving off light; glowing or
A place or location: The play is set in a rustic shining: her luminous e.yes; the luminous stars. ~
locale. Iu·nar (loo'nar) adj.
Syn. locality, setting.

lode (lod) n.

Pertaining to the moon: the lunar landscape. e.

< A large deposit of ore: the mother lode of iTOn
lu·rid (l(y)06r'id) adj.
ore. Shocking, vivid, or sensational: a magazine ~
with lurid reports of sex and murder.
loge (IOj) n.
A box or upper section in a theater.
i,!!s·ter (lus'tar) n. e!!I
1 Soft, reflected light; sheen: the luster of gold.

lon.gev.i·ty (lon<jev';;<te) n.
2 Brightness or brilliance of light: Ihe match­
< Great age, or the tendency to live long: The
less luster of the sun. 3 Splendor or glory, as e!!I

hundred-year-old man attributed his longevity of achievement, renown, beauty, etc.: the

to clean living. luster of Ihe golden age of Gr.eece. .

Syn. 1 gloss, shimmer. 2 radlance .. 3 brllllanc~.

e!!!!!II
<

lon.gi.tude (Ion'ja.t(y)ood or long'ga·t(y)ood)

Ant. 1, 2 dullness, darkness, tarmsh. 3 medi­

~istance east or west from the Earth's ocrity, insignificance. '!!!!I

center: Longitude can be expressed either in lus·trous (lus'tras) adj.

time or in arc.-lon'gj.tu'di.nal adj.
Ant. latitude.
Glossy or shining: Gold is a lustrous metal. !!!!!
Syn. bright, gleaming, sparkling.
lo·qua·cious (\o·kwa'shas) adj. Ant. dark, dull.
Very talkative: a loquacious woman who ~
chatters almost constantly. lux·u·ri·ant (lug.zh06r'(j<ant or luk<sh06r'e·
Syn. &arrulous, gabby.
ant) adj. .
Ant. Silent, taciturn.
Growing lushly and profusely, as vegetatlOll, ~
or abunu.ant and ornate, as a design: the
lar·gnette (lor·nyet') n. luxuriant vegetation of a tropical rain forest; a
1 Eyeglasses with an ornamental handle into luxuriant, noveau-art painting. ~
which they may be folded when not in use.
2 Opera glasses with a long handle. lux·u·ri·ous (lug·zh06r'ij·as or luksh06r'e·as)

adj.

la·thar·j·o (lo<thar';;·O) n<, lo.thar·i·oB pl. Characterized by or conducive to opulence

(Often capital L) A fickle seducer: a Lotharia or extreme comfort: a luxurious house com­
who had seduced alleast a hundred women. plete with hOD Olympic-size swimming 1)00Is.

Etymology: Latharia was a rake in Nicholas Syn. BUm(ltuous, plush, palatial.

Rowe's play The Fair Penitent. Ant. poor, shabby, seedy.

Byn. Don Juan, Casanova, rake.

Jy.ce·um (lj<se'"m) n., ly.ce·ums or Iy.ce.a

lout (lout) n. (II,sil'a) pI.

, An awkward, boorish fellow: The lout stepped 1 An organization providing lectures, con­

all over my feet when we waltzed. certs, etc., for the public.< 2 The building

Byn. boor, clod, oaf. in which such all orgamzutiun lS housed.

lu·tid (loo'sid) adj. (lj) n.

1 Easily understood; clearly explained: a lucid lye An acid solution usually leached [rom ashes

explanation. 2 Rational; sane: a lucid interval or derived from an alkaline substance; Lye is

between spells of delirium. used in making soap.

Syn. 1 clear, intelligible. 2 balanced.

Ant. 1 muddy, incomprehensible. 2 mad, lyre (llr) n.

deranged, irrational. A hurplike stringed instrument Wilh four to

lu·era·live (\oo'kra<tiv) adj. ten strings and a sounding board: 'l'he

Producing or yielding money or other gain; ancient Greeks played lyres.

profitable: a lucrative business.

Syn. money-making, remunerative. M
Ant. unprofitable.
ma.en·bre (ma<kii'bra or m<J·ka'bdr) adj.
lu·di·craus (loo'da·kres) adj. Suggesting death and decay; gruesome: a
IUdiculous: the ludicrous suggestion that macabre movie about varn:eires and ghouls.
Lassie run for President. Syn. bloodcurdling, hornble, creepy.
Syn. absurd, laughable, preposterous.
mae·ad·am (ma·kad'um) n.
lu·gu·bri·ous (loo·g(y)oo'br;;·as) adj. 1 A road paved by sr,reading and fusing
Very sad or mournful, especially in. a small pieces of stone. 2 'I he broken stone. used
ludicrous manner: the luguortoUS expre8swn to buifd such a road.
of a clown who has just taken a pratfali. Etymology: John L. McAdam (1756-1836),
lu·mj.nar·y (loo'm".ner';;) n., lu·ml·nar·ies pI. a Scottish engineer, invented the process.
1 Any body that gives light, especially the Ant. unpaved, dirt.

642
macerate
mac.er·ate (mas'a.rat) v. mac.er.at·ed, mac·
er·aUng
'1'0 reduce a solid substance to pulp by soak­
ing in liquid: Food is macerated as' jj passes
through the digestive system.
Mach·i·a·vel·Jj·an (mak'e·<)·vel'e·an) adj., 11.
adj. 1 Based on or resembling the amoral,
practical principles for getting and keeping
political power that were described in Nic­
colo Machiavelli's book The Prince: Stalin
maintained power through Machiaveltian acts
of persecution. 2 By extension, any behavior
involving scheming and deceitfulness: his
Machiavellian schemes to dis~race his boss.
n. A follower of Machiavelli s principles.
mach·j·na·tion (mak'a·na'shan) n.
the weakest have a magnitude of 6.
An act that is part of a scheme or plot: His
Syn. 1 extent, greatness.
devious machinations were never publicized.
main·tain (man-tan') v.
mad· am (mad'am) n., meg·dames (m!i·dihn')
pl.
A title moaning "my lady," formerly used
to address noblewomen but now used to any
woman: "Yes, madam," said the maid.
mad· arne (mad'am, French rna-dam') n., meso
dames (ma·dam', French ma·dam') pl.
The French title of courtesy for a married
woman, equivalent to the English 1I1r••
mad·e·moi·selle (mad'a·ma·zel', l!'rench mad·
mwa·zel') n., mad·e·moi-selles or French
mes·de.rnoi·selles (mad.mwa·zel') pl.
The title of an unmarried Frenchwoman,
equivalent to the English Miss.
mad·ri·gal (mad'ra·gal) n.
An unaccompanied song with parts for sev­
eral singers.
mael·strom (mal'atram) n.
A whirlpool or any turbulent, dangerous, and
irresistible force: the maelstrom of passion.
ma·es·tro (ma·es'tro or mls'trG) n., rna·es·lros
pI.
An eminent conductor, composer, or per­
former of mu~ic, or a master in any other art.
mag·a.zine (mag'a·zen' or mag'a·zen) n.
1 A periodical publication, usually with a
paper cover and illustrations, containing
stories, articles, etc_ 2 A purt of a gun hold­
ing ammunition: the mugazine of the rifle.
3 A building or room for storing explosives
and ammuniti<)n, or a warehouse for storing
military supplies.
mag·is.te·ri·al (maj'is·tir'e·al) adj.
1 Pertaining to or like a public official who
administers and enforces the law: the dean's
magisterial duties. 2 Dictatorial; domineer­
ing: He barked out orders in a magisterial
manner.
Syn. 2 bossy, imperious.
adj. Discontented; dissatisfied: restless and
Ant. 2 meek, deferential.
malcontent youth.
mag·na·nim.j.ly (mag'na.nim'a·te) n.
The qualitr of generosity, as in forgiving in­
sults or injuries: the magnanimity of a man
who goes out of his way to do a favor for a for­
mer enemy.
Syn. nobility, high-mindedness.
Syn. execration, imprecation.
An•• pettiness, meanness.
Ant. benediction, blessing.
malediction
mag·nan·i·molls (mag.nan'a-mes) adj.
Manifesting or characterized by generosity
in forgiving insults or injuries: a magnani­
mous gesture.
Syn. generalIS.
Ant. petty.
mag· nate (mag'nat) 11.
A famous or influential perSOll, especially
within some industry: Ilearst was a newspaper
magnate.
Sun. tycoon, mugul, VIP.
mag.ni·tude (mag'na·t(y)60d) n.
1 Size; importance: the magnitUde of the
problem. 2 The relative brightness of a star:
The brightest slars have a magnitude of 1 and
1 To carryon or to preserve; to keep in exist­
ence: to nwiniain friendly re/ations. 2 1'0
assert or to claim La be true: lIe lI",intllills
his innocence.
Syn. 1 sustain, continue. 2 uphold.
Ant. 1 discontinue, terminate, end. 2 deny.
main·te·nance (man'la-nans) n.
1 The act of keeping or continuing, or the
state of being I("pt or cuntinued: the ,nain­
tenance of a slundiny arm-yo 2 Means of sup­
port. 3 'l'he work of keeping roads, buildings,
etc., in good condition: tile maintenance of
highways.
maitre d'ha·tel (me'tr' do tel') 11.
A headwaiter or ,leward: The 1I!ultre a'hatel
led them to a table.
Usage: In informal Americall U8uge this
noun is often shortened to maitre (/' (ma'tra
dil').
ma·jor·j·ty (ma·jilr'a·tf.j or mil·jor',He) 'II., rna'
jor.i.ties pI.
1 More than half of a given number or group:
the majority of the voters. 2 The number of
votes cast for a candidate, bill, elc. over and
above the total number of remaining votes.
3 The time or fact of reaching legal age: II e
wi!! inherit the money on his majority.
rnal·a·prop.ism (mal'a·prop·iz'am) n.
1 A phrase or sentence that is comical or non­
senSical because the speaker used a wrong
word that sounded something like the word
he really meant. 2 The act of misusing
word(s) in this way.
Elymology: The word malapropism derives
from the name of Mrs. Malaprop, a charac­
ter who ludicrously misused words in the
1775 comedy The Rivals by Richard B_ Sheri­
dan.
mal·con·tent (mal'kan-tent) adj., n.
n. A person who is dissatisfied,
Syn. n. dissident, complainer. adj. unsatis­
fied, disgruntled.
mal·e·dic·tion (mal'a·dik'shan) n.
The pronouncing of a curse against someone:
his maledictions again~t his enemies.
643
malevolent marauder
ma·lev·o·lent (ma·lev'a·lant) adj. man.da·to.ry (man'da·tOr'e or man/da·tOr'e)
Wishing evil toward others: Fie is so malevo­ adj.
lent that he hDpes his enemies will die. Required by or as if required by an authori­

8yn. malign, malignant, malicious. tative command; compulsory: soldiets wear­

Ant. benign, friendly. ing the mandatory khaki uniform.

ma.\i.cious (ma·\ish'as) adj. Syu. obligatory.

Revealing or characterized by the desire to Ant. op tiona!.

~
injure another; spiteful: her malicious gos­ ma·neu·ver (ma·n(y)60'var) n .• v.
siping. n. 1 A planned movement, as of troops, war­ ~
8yn. rnal<:volent, vicious.

Ant. good-natured, helpful.

ships, etc.: to carry oul. mililary lIWlwuver8.

2 Any adroit move or instance 01 clever '"
management: a wily maneuver helped her get ~
lIlR·lign (lna·lfn') v. ma.ligned, ma.lign·ing; adj. introduced to the pri1lCe.
'/I
v. To spread false charges about someone:

Jiia enemies maligned him by sayinll he prac­

v. To manage or conduct skillfully; handle; ~
manipulate.
ticed black magic.

adj. 1 Wishing or trying to do evil to others;

mange (manD n. '" ~
a malign mall. 2 Tending to do harm; a ma­
An itching skin disease of dogs and other II
lign infection.
domestic animals caused by parasilic mites.
Syn. v. defame, villify. adj. 1 malevolent,
man.ger (man'jar) n. ~
malicious.
ffI'
A trough or box for feeding horses and cattle:
Ant. v. praise, extol. adj.
the oats in the manger. ~
ma.Jig.nant (ma·\ig'n<lnt) adj. man.gy (man'je) adj. man.gj·er, man.gi·el;l ffI'
1 Becoming progressively worse: a malignant 1 Affected with or resembling mange (an ani­
Iumor. 2 Tending to do great harm; the ma­
C'!!!!:.
mal skin disease): (l mangy dog. 2 Shabby: a '/I
lignant power of prejudice. 3 Having an evil mangy old rug.
dllipositJon toward others: The malignant old man·i·fest (man'a·fest) adj. v. ~
man liked to make olher people suffer. adj. Plainly apparent or self-evident; ob­ If!
Syn. 1 virulent, cancerOUB. 2 pernicious, de­
vious: a me",ifest truth. ~
structi ve. 3 evil, malevolent.
v. To reveal or make apparent. ffI'

Ant. 1 benign, self-limited. 2 beneficial, in­

Syn. adj. evident, clear. v. show, display.

nocuous. 3 kind, good-natured.

Ant. adj. doubtful, improbable. v. conceal,
mall (mol, mal, or mel) n.
A promenade or walk, usually public and
ha ving trees, or a street of shops closed off to
vehicles and enhanced with trees, benches, elc.
mal·le·a. hie (mal'e·a·bal) adj.
1 Capable of being hammered or rolled out
without breaking, as a metal: Soft gold is
very mal/cablc.2 ~asy to shape and mold:
a docile, mal/eablti child.
Syn. 1 ductile, pliable, flexible. 2 tractable.
Ant. 1 brittle, rigid, hard. 2 intractable, in­
dependellt.
~
mask.
man·i·fes·to (man!il·f~s'tO) n., man·j·fes·toes
'"
or man·j·fes·los pl.
A public and formal declaration of principles,
intentions, etc., as by a political factiol! or
other movement: the Dat/,.ist manifesto.
Syn. proclamation.
man·i·fold (man'a·fold) adj.
Having many and varied forms, types, ele­
ments, features, etc.: tlte manifuld joys of
lIiart.
Syn. multiple, many-faceted.

mam·mon (mam'an) n. ma·nil)·u·late (ma·nip'ya·!:it) v. ma·nip·u·

Riches regarded as an evil influence and ig­ lat·ed, ma.llip.u.lat.ing

noble goal: He who worships mammon does 1 To manage people, figures, stocks, etc.,

not worship God. shrewdly and deviously, especially for one's

mam·moth (mam'ath) n., adj. own profit: to manipulate people by 'll6-ing

n. 1 A large, once very abundant but now

flattery. 2 To control, move, etc., with the

extinct elephant. 2 By extension, anything

hands, especially to move skillfully: a loatch­
characterized by immense size, weight, etc.:
maker manipulating all the minute parts.

the ship was a mammoth.

man.ne·quin (man'a·kin) n.

adj. Huge: (j mammoth factory covering forty

1 A full-size model of a complete or partial

acres.
human figure, especially a model with mov­

Syn. n. 2 colossus, giant. adj. immense, gi­

able joints, used by tailors, artists, etc.:

gantic, enormous.
Drape the clothes on the mannequi'li. 2 A fash­

Ant. 11. adj. tiny, diminutive, miniature.

ion model: The memneqltills paraded down tile

man·date (man'dat or man'dil) 11. runway.

1 An instruction from an electoralc to its Syn. 1 dummy.

representative, expressed by the results of man·u·fac·lur·er (man'ya·fak'ehar·Clr) n.

an election: the people's mandate. 2 An au­ One who makes or produces some product,

thoritative command, as of a sovereign: Ihe especially with machinery: a radio manufac­

mandate of the king. 3 Formerly, a charge to turer.

a nation by the League of Nations authoriz­ Syn. maker, producer.

ing the administration and development oC a ma·raud·er (ma·rOd'ar) 11.

territory, colony, etc. A person who roves and raids in search of

644
margarine
plunder: The marauders stripped twenty farm­
houses.
Syn. raider, plunderer, pillager.
mar.ga.rine (mar'ja·rin or mar'ja.rlln) n.
A butter substitute made from vegetable oils,
milk, and seasoning.
mar·i·nate (mar'a,nat) v. mar.i·nal·ed, mar·i·
nat.ing
To soak a food in a liquid before cooking or
serving: He marinated Ihe beef in wine.
mar·i·tal (mar'a.tal) adj.
Pertaining to marriage: He liked marital life
better than life as a bachelor.
8yn. matrimonial, conjugal.
Ant. unmarried, single.
mar·i·time (mar'a·tIm) adj.
Situated on or near the sea or pertaining to
ocean shipping, navigation, etc.: Newfound­
land is a maritime province. Maritime com­
merce is fa~ter than overland commerce.
Syn. sea, marine. I 2 A pretense or disguise: It masquerade of
mar·mo·set (mar'ma·zet) 11.
A small, squirrellike monkey having Boft,
woolly hair and a long, hairy tail: ,Uannosels
live in Central and South America.
mar·quee (mar·kll') n.
A canopy, usually of metal, used as 11 sign­
board and shelter over the ~idewalk in front
of a theater, hotel, etc.: the neon-lit ma·rquee
ofa movie theater.
mar-quis (mar'kwis, French mar·ke') n.
An aristocrat ranking below a duke but above
a count or earl: The title of marquis is heredi­ etc.; the massacre of civilian popUlations.
tary.
mar·quise (mar·kez') n.
I 'l'he wife or widow of a }'rench marquis.
2 In gem cutting, a pointed oval form, es­
pecially for diamonds.
mar· row (mar'O) 1!.
I A soft tissue in the cavities of most bones. mas· sage (ma·sazh') n.; v. mas·saged, mas·
2 The essence, innermost part, or most im­
portant part of something: the marrow of
the problem.
8yn. 2 pith, core, quintessence.
etc.: A good massage relaxes the muscles.
Ant• .2 surface, periphery.
v. To rub and knead someone's body; The
mar·Hal (mar'shal) adj.
Characteristic of, suggesting, or suitable for
war or warriors: the martia, music of J okn
Philip Sousa.
Etymology: The word martial derives from
Mars, the Roman god of war.
8yn. warlike, military, militant.
ml\r4i.net (mar'ta·net') n.
Someone who demands rigid adherence to
rules, etc.; one who illlPOse~ military or
equally strict discipline: a martinet who in­
sisted that the cadets eat square meals while
sitti1l!l at attention.
Etymology: The word martinet derives [rom
General Jean Martinet, a seventeenth-cen­
tury French drillmaster.
Syn. disciplinarian, autocrat.
mar·trr (mar'tar) n., v.
n. I A person who submits to death rather
material
than renounce his religion: the early Christian
martllrs. 2 A person who dies, suffers, or sacri­
fices everything for a principle, cause, etc.:
a martyr .vhv e1<dt<red tvrture rather than be­
tray his comrades.
v. To make a martyr of someone by per­
secuting or killing him: J vun of A.rcwlts ilWT­
tl/red.
mar·vel·ous (mlir'val,as) adj.
I Causing astoni"hment: a marvelous juggler.
2 Informal Very good: a marvelous time­
mar'vel.ous.ly or mar'vej.\ous,ly adv.
S~el1lng tip: This word may "Iso be spelled
With two l's: marvello1Ls. Be sure to end the
word with -Ol<S.
Syn. I wondrous, amazing, awe-inspiring.
mas.quer.ade (mas'ka·rad' or mas'ka·rad')
11.; v. mas.quer,ad.ed, mns·qucr·ad·ing
n. I A Bocial gathering at which [he guests
are masked and dressed in costumes: She
wore a shepherdess costume to the masquerade.
piety.
v. I To take .l'art in a masquerade; to wear
a mask or disguise: masquerailing guests at
the Halloween ball. 2 To disguise one's true
identity or character; a Russian spy who
masqueraded (IS a British lleU'Slnan.
S),n. n. 1 costume ball. 2 silrluialiol1, jJo~e,
sham. v. 2 pose.
mas·sa·ere (mas'a·kar) n.; v. mas.sa·cred,
mas·sa·cring
n. A savage and indiscriminate killing of
human beings, as in warfare, p0rs~cutions,
11. I '1'0 kill indiscriminately or in great num­
bers: Nazis massacred the Jews. 2 To defeat
severly, as in sports; The llisitors mabsacred
our home team.
Syn. n. slaughter, butchery, bluudLuth. v.
slaughter, butcher, murder.
sag·lng
n. A mechanical or manual manipUlation uf
parts of the body, as by rubbing, kneading,
masseuse massq,ged ltis back.
mas·ti~cate (mas'ta·kat) v. mas.jj·cat·ed, mas'
Ii.cat·lng
To grind to a pulp before swallowing: lIu­
ma ns masticate solid food, but dogs swallow it
in chunks.
Syn. chew.
ma·te·ri·al (ma·tir'e·.,l) 11., adj.
n. I 'l'he substance of which anything is
ma(le: building materia! slLch (IS brick, con­
crete, and wood. 2 Cloth: Is that muierial cotion
or rayon? 3 Anything uBed for creating or
developing Bomething: fresh material for his
novel.
adj. 1 Pertaining to the body (as opposed to
the mind) or to tangible objects (as opposed
to ideas, spirits, etc.): their ma/.,,.;,,I well­
bcillll. 2 Important. or relevant; '1'1", ilealth of
the President was a 1naterial issue in the cam­
paign.
645

maternal
ma·ter·nal (ma·tur'nal) adj.
Pertaining to, resembling, or inherited from
a mother: maternal love.
Syn. motherly, matriarchal.
Ant. paternal, fatherly.
Plat.i.nee (mat'a·na') n.
A performance of a play, movie, concert, etc.,
during the daytime, usually the afternoon.
Etymology: This word goes back to Matula,
Roman goddess of morning.
Spelling tip: Matinee (same pronunciation)
ill an alternate spelling.
mat·n·tide (mat'ra·sId) n.
1 The killinj& of one's mother: Orestes com­
mitted matncide-he murdered his mother.
2 One who kills his mother: Orestes was a
matricide.
ma-irix (mll.'triks) n., ma·trix.es or ma.tri·ces
(ma:'tra·silz or mat'ra·sez) pI.
That in which something is created, shaped,
or contained: to cast a printing plale in a
metal matrix.
Syn. mold, womb, source.
~
ma·jure (ma·t(y)Ci'llr' or ma·chCi'llr') adj.,' v.
ma·tured, ma·tur.!ng
adj. Fully grown or developed: a puppy and
a mature dog; a mature. well-developed plan.
v. 1 To grow to adulthood or to full develop­
ment. 2 To come due: The promissoru note
had malured.-ma.tur'i·ty n.
Ant. adj. immature, undeveloped.
maud·lin (mlld'lin) adj.
Excessively and tearfully emotional or senti­
mental: a maudlin drunk.
Etymology: The word maudlin derives from
Madeleine, the Old French spelling of (Mary)
Magdalen, who is often depicted with eyes
swollen from weeping. . city of Mecca, where Moslems make pil­
~
Syn, self-pitying, bathetic, weepy.
Ant. cheerful, gay.
mau·so·le·um (mo'sa.le'em) n., mau·Bo·le,unJs
or mau·so·le·a (mO'sa.I<!'a) pl.
I A large, stately tomb: The ancient ruler was
interred in a magnificent mausoleum. 2 By
extension, a large and very gloomy house:
'l'he house he inherited was an ornate maU80­
leur" without sunlight or cheer.
med·dle·some (med'l·sam) adj.
mauve (mov or mawv) n.
Interfering: a meddlesome busybody.
II. 1 A coal-tar violet dyestuff: Mauve is
made by oxidizing aniline. 2 Any of various rne·di·an (me'dil·an) n.
purplish-rose shades: Mauve is brighter than
lavender but lighter than purple.
plav·er.ick (mav'ar·ik) n.
1 An unbranded or orphaned call or other
~
animal: The first :person to claim a11d brand a
maverick becomes lts owner. 2 One who is Ull­
orthodox in his ideas, attitudes, etc.: the
unconventional, odd-8ouliding opinions of a
maverick.
~tymology: Thill word derives from the
the media1i is 3 (two values are below the 3
name of Samuel A. Maverick, a nineteenth­
and two are above it).
century Texas lawyer who did not brand
Syn. middle, midpoint.
his cattle.
med·j·eal ( med'i·k"l) adj.
Syn. 2 nonconformist.
Pertaining to medicine: a ?nedical school for
Ant. 2 conformist, organization man.
future doctors.
646
.'
medical
max·im (mak'aim) n.
A proverb: a brief statement of a general
p'rlnciple or rule of conduct: '1'ltc saying
'Don't throw good money after blld" is a
maxim.
Syn. precept, adage.
may·hem (ma'hem) 11.
I In law The crime of violently injuring or
maiming someone's body: He was convicted ~
.­
of assault with the intent to commit mayhem.
2 Any situatioll of violence, nOise, confusion, ~
ran amok through the city. .­
etc.: the mayhem that resulted when five tigers
~
may.on·naise (ma'a·nll.z') n.
.­
A salad dressing made from egg yolks, butter
or olive oil,lemon juice or vinegar, and spices. ~
mean (m<!n) v. meant, mean-jug; adj. .­
1
something: Did you mean to hurt her feelings? ~
v. To intend: to be planning or trying to do
2 To intend to express: That's not what I ..
~
meant.
adj. Disagreeable or malicious, of inferior
quality, or
.
i~noble and contemptible: a mean,
sometimes vtcious dog.
Syn. v. 1 plan, desire. 2 denote, signify. •
me·an·der (me·an'dar) v_ , .~
To wander aimlessly or to follow a winding,
twisting path: meanderi?l!1 along tl18 river­
bank. ~
name of the extraordinarily winding Muander
River. '
­
Etymology: This word derives from the Greek
~
8yn. ramble, wind.
mee·ea (mek/a) n.
~
~
A place or attraction visited by many people,
or the thing to which onc aspires: 'l'/le Rivwra e:-~-.
is a vacationer's mecca,
Etymology: This word derives from the holy
grimages.
mech·a·nism (mek'a-niz'am) n. ~
I The parts or arrangement of parts of a •
in the working of its parts: the mechanism of a ~
machine, or something similar to !l maehine
watch; the wonderful mechanism of the human
body. 2 The process or technique by which ~
something works: the 71wciW1Ii.ill of democracy.
Syn. otlicious.
I
The point in a series in which there are as
many instances above as below. ~
Usage: M can and median are bolh terms for ,
an arithmeLic average. The mean is the aver­
age computed by adding the values and
dividing by the number of values; the 'me(lian
is the midpoint. Thus in the series 1, 2.3,4,
lU, the anthmetic mean is 4 (1 + :; + 3 + '1
+ 10 -;- 5, the total number of values) and
medicinal
me·dic·i·nal (ma·dis'a.nal) adj.
Having the properties of a medicine; cura·
tive: medicinal herbs.
med·i·cine (med'a·san) n.
1 Any substance used in the treatment of
disease or relief of pain: Aspirin is a medicine.
2 The science of the preservation of health
and curing of disease: 111edicine is practiCfd by
doclors.
Syn. 1 drug, medicament.
me·di·e·val (me'd~·e'val or mcd/e·e'val) adj.
Pertaining to the Middle Ages (about A.D. 476
to about 1450): Knights jousled in medieval
times.
Spelling tip: This word may also be spelled
medil£val.
me·di·Q·cre (me'd~·o'kar or me'diOHI'kar) adj..
Of onlr average quality; not of high quality:
a medlocre performance with nothing particu­
lar to recommend it.-me'di.oc'ri.ty r<.
me·men·to (ma·men'to) n., me·men·tos 01'
Usage: Although mediocre means "average,"
me·men.toes pI.
it is a much more derogatory word.
Anything that i:; a reminder of the pust: a
Syn. commonplace, ordinary, run-of-the­
mill. .
Syn. souvenir, remembrance.
Ant. excellent, fine, superior.
mern·oir (mem'war) n.
med·j·ta·tion (med'a·ta'shem) n.
The act of musing or reflecting upon a suu·
ject; continuous and contemplative think­
ing: /0 reach a conclusion after several hours
of meditation.
Syn. contemplation, pondering.
rne·di·urn (m~'d~·am) n., me·di·ums for def. 1.
me·di·urns or me·di·Q (mil'd~·a) for df:/s.
B, S, pI.; adj.
r,. 1 A person who can communicate with
supernatural forces, especially one who trans­
mIts messages from the spirits of the dead.
2 The form or materials used by an artist:
Sculptors' media include bronze, marbie, and
clay. His medium is poetry, not :1!rose. 3 A
substance in which somethinl< hves or is
traIll!mitted: Salt water is a fish's medium.
News media are papers, magazines, radio, and
television.
adj. Intermediate in quantity, quality, size,
degree, etc.: Do you like rare or medium rare
stedk?
Syn. rl. 1 spiritualist, clairvoyant.
rned·ley (med'le) n.
1 A mingled and confused group of separate
parts: HeT sewing basket is a medley of pins,
needles, buttons, and thread. 2 A musical com­
position made up of different airs or parts of
songs arranged as a continuous whole: a
medley consisting of snatches of songs from
"Oklaho1na!"
rneer·schaurn (mir'sham, mir'shom, or mir'­
shoum) n.
A soft, light, and heat-resistant material, or
a pipe made from this material: Does he Sl110ke
a corncob pipe or a meerschaum?
mel·an·chol.y (mel'an·kol'e) adj., n.
adj. Very sad or gloomy: a rainy, melanclwly
day.
n. A mood of great sadness; low spirits: He
endured deep melancholy after his wife died.
meningitis
Syn. depression, despondency.
Ant. gaIety, happiness.
me.lange (ma·lanzh') 11.
A mixture of many different elements: The
furniture 1{!<IS a m~lange of Victorian, Early
A meTical!, and modern stylco.
me·lcc ma·]a' or mil'hi) n.
A confused general fight invo]vinii many
people amI' hand-to-hand iighting: What
started off as (! fistfight between IIl'o me1l became
a melee when many passers-by joined in.
Syn. brawl, affray, fracas.
mel·lif·lu·ous (ma·lif'li:iO·as) adj.
Sweetly or smoothly fiowin!l': the 800(lIlng,
unbroken rhythm of a mellifluous rehglous
chant.-mel·\if'lu.ous.ly adv., mel.lif'lu·ous.
ness n.
Syn. dulcet, melodious.
Ant. harsh, discordant.
scrapbook with mementos of school days.
U sltally pl. Personal reminiscences, especiully
a narrative of events thut the writer partici­
pated in or observed: th" ge1wral's memoirs
abuut World War II.
mem.Q.ran·dum (mem'a·ran'dam) n., mem·o·
ran·durns or mern·o·ran·da (mem'a'Tan'da)
pi,
1 A brief note uf wmethil1g to ue remem­
bered, or an informal record of observations,
transactions, etc.: 1'}w businessman jotted
down (! menlOr(l"'/"'" of his lelep/wnc con­
ver8alion. 2 An informal letter, usually sent
between dCllUrtrnents in a firm: an hlleroffice
memoraudum. 3 In di'plomacy An informal
statement or summary of an issue, decision,
etc.: The ambassador sent tite foreign minister
a rnemontllduln delhling his gON'rnmcnt's posi­
tion.
me·nage (ma·nuzh') n.
The members of a household; a domestic
estau\lsilment.
Sl.'clling tip: This word may also he written
Without the accent mark.
rnen·da·cious (men·da'shas) adj.
Lying; deceitful or false: Don't bd-Icve any­
thing lw says for he is a lIlel/dacio'lIs man.-­
rnen.dn'cious.lyadv.
Ant. honest, trustworthy.
rnen·di·cant (men',ia·kdnt) n., adj.
n. 1 A beggar: <l mendicant beseechini/ passers­
by for mOlley. 2 A mem bet of an order of
monks who beii: Nul all friars are mendicants.
adj. Begging: 'I<e meruliwnt childroll of 1wr·
torn lands.
Syn. n. 1 panhandler.
Ant. 11. I philanthropist, benefactor. adj.
philanthropic.
men.jll.gi·tis (rnen',m·jj'tis) n.
A serious disease characterized hy inflam­
mation of the meninge~ (three membranes
that envelop the brain and spinal cord).
-men'in·git'ic adj.
647
lllentbol
men.thol (men'thol, men'thol, or men/thol) n.
A white, waxy-textured crystalline alcohol
obtained from (and smelllng like) oil of pep­
permint: lIfenthol is I~sed a3 a flavoring agent
in perfumes, medicines, and cigarettes.-men'7
tho.lai'ed adj.
men·tor (men'tar or men't6r) n.
A wise and trusted teacher and guide: The
boy's uncle was his mentor, guiding him and
molding his characler.-men.to/ri.al adj.
Etymology: This word derives from Mentor
Who, according to the Odyssey, was the wise
guardian of Ulysses' son Telemachus.
men·u (men'yoo) n.
1 A list of the dishes being served at a meal,
or a list of the dishes available in a restaurant
and (usually) the price of each dish: He read
the menu ancl then ordered his dinner. 2 The
dishes that constitute a meal: She planned
the week's menus.
Syn. 1 bill of fare.
~er·cu·ri·al (mar·kyi56r ' e·al) adj.
Lively, quick-witted, and characterized by
rapid, unpredictable chan~es of mood or
activity: the prima donna 8 Mercurial tem­
perament ..
Etymology: 1IIercurial derives from Mercury,
the Roman meRsenger of the gods who was
depicted as fleet-footed, quick-wilted, elo­
quent, and thievish.
Syn. volatile, changeable.
mere·iy (mir'le) adv.
Nothing more than; only: Don'! worry about
mJl i!lness'--il's merely a cold.
Syn. solely, simply.
mer.e-tri·cious (mer/o·trish'as) adj.
Flashy, attractive, or impressive but worth­
less or yhony : the meretricious kindliness of a
polilicfl canditlate kissing a baby.-mer'e·tri'­
ciom;.ly adv., mer'e·trl ' cious-ne8s n.
me·ringue (rna· rang ') n.
A cake, tart crust. or topping consisting of
stiffly beaten whites of eggs mixed with sugar
and baked.
mer·it (mer'it) n.
1 Excellence: a man of meril; a book's literary
merit. 2 Something admirable, of high qual­
ity, or valuable: Intelligence and 'Unselfish­
ness are his greatest merits.
Syn. 1 worth, value. 2 virtue.
Ant. 1 worthlessness, trashiness. 2 failing,
drawback, fault.
me·sa (ma'sa) n.
A high, broad, fiat plateau with steep, rocky
sides, common in the southwestern United
States.
mes·mer·ize (mes'ma·ri" or me,,'ma.riz) v.
mes·mer.ized. mes·mer.i:dng
To hypnotize: He mesmerized the subject,
putting him inlo a deep lrance and then hating
him obey orders.-mes'mer-ist n.
mes.quite (mes·ket' or mes'ket) n.
1 A spiny shrub that yields sweet pod~ used
for cattle fodder, found in the southwestern
U.S. and southward to Peru. 2 The screw
bean (a shrub of the mimosa family).
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled mesquit.
militant
met·al·lur.gy (met/a.lur'je) n. •
The science of extractmg metals from ores tI!!!J!.
and processing them into various raw ma­
terials.-mel'a!.!ur'gist n.
•
I!!!!h
met·a.mor.pho·sis (mella-mor'fa·sis) n., met·
a·mor.pho.ses (met'a.m6r'fa·sez) pl. •
t A great change in the form and structure of ~
an animal during its development from em­
bryo to adult: the metamorphosis of a tadpole
• ~
into a frog. 2 Any drastic change of appear­
ance, basic characteristics, etc_: her meta­
..
~
morphosis from a tomboy intu a flirt.
Syn.2 transformation, transfiguration, trall~'
mutation.
..
~
met·a.phor (met-v·[or or met'a-[~r) n.
A phrase or sentence that expresses a like­
..
~
ness between two things but does not contain
the word like Or as.
Usage: A simile is the same as a metaphor
..
~
excep,t that it does contain the word like or ..
as: ' He was a lion in battle" is a metaphor, but
"lIe was like a lion in battle" is a simile.
mete (met) v. met·ed. met·ing
To allot or distribute by or as by measure.
Spelling tip: Be careful not to confuse this
word with meet or mcal.
Syn. dole, measure.
me·te.or·ol·o·gy (me'te.a·rol'G·je) n.
The scientific ~ludy of wealhcr.-- lUe'le·or·
•
ol'o.gist n.
me·tic·u·lous (ma·tik'yG·las) adj.
Very or excessively careful about details,
including tiny and unimportant details.
-me·tic'u·lous·ly ariv., me-!ic'lI.!ous-ness n.
Syn. painstaking, finicl,y.
Ant. careless, sloppy.
me.trop·o·lis (ma·trap',dis) n., me·trop.o.
Iis-es pl.
A larl{c city that is II center of culture, trado
etc., or the principal city of a region: Omaha
is a thriving meir01Jolis in Nebraska.
mien (men) n.
Bearing or appearance: an oid general with a
soldierly mien_
Spelling tip: A nasty man with a mean mien
-watch the spelling of these two words.
which are prQnounced alike.
mi· grant (ml'gr<lnt) n., adj. .
n. One who moves from one regIOn to another
regularly or often, as an itinerant worker:
grape-pickers and otiter migrants.
adj. Moving from one region to another regu­
larly or often: migrant workers.
Syn. adj. itinerant, mil{ratory.
mile· age (mt/lii) n.
1 The total length (in miles) of a road, jour­
ney, etc. 2 The average number of miles
tra veled by a car per one gallon of fuel.
mi·licu (me·lyo./) n.
An environment; surroundings: Children
of lhe jet set grow Up in a high-society railieu.
Syn. background, atmosphere.
mil·i·taut (mil/a·tant) adj.
adj. Aggressive, warlike, or actively engaged
in conflict or fighting: lVas it a nonviolent or
militanl demonslration?
 militia misconstrue

n. One who believes in or practices militant adj. Very small; tiny; a miniatllr~ camera

political actions rather than eeaceful ones: about the size oj a matchbox.

Militants believe in massive cil'll disobedience.

Syn. adj. minute, wee, Lilliputian.

Syn. adj. activist, revolutionary, aggressive,

Ant. adj. big, large.

violent. n. activist.
min·jon (min'Yiln) n.
Ant. adj. nonviolent, peaceful, orderly, grad­
A despicably servile favorite or follower: The
ual.
prince's minions flattered him extravagantly.
mi·li·tia (ma·lish'a) n. Syn. lackey, flunkey, toady.
A group of citizens enrolled in military units min·is·ter (min'is·tar) 11., v.
separate from the national army and navy n. 1 A clergyman: the ?ninister's S,mday
and called out only in emergencies; He isn't sermon. 2 An ofllcial appointed to head a de­
in the armed jorces but he's in ihe mililia.­ partment of a government: the minister oj

...,

mi·li'tia·man n. finance. 3 An official diplomatic representa­

~
mil·len.ni·um (mi·len'lhlln) 71., mil·len·nl·"
(mi·len'ne·a) or miMen·ni·ums pI.
lOne thousand years: Nearlv two rnillennia
tive ranking just below an ambassador; a
minister accredited to the French government.
v. '1'0 give help or care: Nurses minister to

have passed since A.D. 1. 2 According to the Ihe sick.

New Testament, a thousand years during Syn. n. 1 pastor, cleric. v. tend, care for.

tI::se: which Christ will someday rule the world.

3 By extension, a hypothetical time of virtue,
happiness, human perfection, etc.; the Marxist
min·u·et (mintyiiO-et') n.
A stately dance for couples, or the music for
such a dance: The minuet originated in seven­
1Iha, millennimnoj economic equalitv.--mil.len'ni.al
adj.
teenlh-ce1!tury France.
min·utes (min'its) n.p!.
Syn. 3 utopia, paradise, golden age.
tfIIs::s, mil·li.ner·y (mH'a'ller'e) n.
Women's hats, or the trade of making
A fofmal record of the business discussed and
transacted at a meeting: The secrclary oj the
club read the minutes oj the last meeting.
tfIIs::s, women's hats: a shop selling berets, bonnets,
cloches, and oiher millinery.
mi·nu·ti·a (mi·n(y)60'shi'(1 or mi·ll(y)oo'sh~)
n. mi·nu·ti·ae (mi·n(y)60'shi·ti) pI.
~
mim·e.o·graph (mim'e.<)·g\-af' or mim'e·,,· Usually pI. Small, unimportant details: Con­

,
graf') 71., v. centrate on important things and no/ on minu­
n. A machine that reproduces copies of type­
~
tiae.
written pages, tracings, etc., by means of a Syn. trivia, trifles.

stencil wrapped around a rotary drum. Ant. essentials, basics.

v. To produce with a mimeograph machine; mir·a·c1e (mir'a.kal) n.

Mimeograph twelve mare copies.
mim.ic (mim'ik) v. mlm·lcked, mim·jck.jng;
~ 71., adj.
v. 1 To imitate by copying; a small boy mim­
1 A supernatnral happening or act: tile mir­
acle oj Lourdes. 2 Any wonderful or amazing
thing; marvel: This secretary is Il "tirade oj
efficiency.-mi.rac'u.lous adj.

~
icking his jather shalnng. 2 To ridicule some­
one by imitating: lIe cruelly mimicked her
lisp.
~ n. One who imitates, especiaUy olle clever at
mis·ad·ven·ture (mis'ad·ven'ch...r) n.
An unlucky happening or accident; mis­
fortune: Barring mi;mi{'cJI/tlrc, 11'e'/1 arrive

comic imitations; mimics, comedians, and

other nightclub entertainers.

bejore noon.
Syn. mischance, mishap.
~ adj. Imitative:. the playlul kitten's mimic je­

rocity.

mis·al·li·ance (mis'a·li'ans) n.
An undesirable alliance or marriage: With

~
f)yn. v. 1 ape, simulate, feign. 2 parudy, cari­
such dijfacnt backgrounds th,dr "",rriuge
catun,. adj. make-believe. mock.
would be u misulliance.
Ant. adj. natural, genuine.
mis·an·thrope (mis'an·thrap) n.
"*=:
min.a·ret (min'a·ret') n.
A high, ~lender, balconied tower attached to
A person who hates his fellow men.
mis·ap·pre·l!ell.sioll (mis'ap·ri·hcn'sh"n) n.
~ an Islamic mosque (temple) or lilly similar
tower.
A failure to understand or interpret correctly:
111 y misapprehensions about Ihe wndi<iate's
qualifications vanished when I T<'ur/ his plal­
mince (mins) v. minced, minc·ing
~ 1 To walk or behave in an excessively af­
fected way: The six-jooter mince« along with
jorm.
mis.ce·ge·na·!ion (mis'i·j"·nli'~han) 11.
~ ridiculuusly tiny steps. 2 '1'0 cut or chop into
tiny pieces; to mince all union.
Syn. 2 hash. dice.
Marriage between persons of different races.
mis·chanct: (mi~·clmns') n.

~
Bad luck: Ij by some mischanceyun lose tlte
min·er (min'"r) n. directions, call me.
One who digs for coal, metallic ores, etc.: Syn. mishap, misfortune, misadventure.
4:su a coal miucr.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse miner and mill"l'.
mis·coll.strue (mis'kan·striiO') v. 1l1l~'COll'
strued, mis·con.stru.ing
~ min.i·a·ture (mill'e·a·cher or min',,·chJr) 11.,
adj.
n. A very sma!! portrait or replica: A ship in
To interpret wrongly: He miscotlsirued my
intentions and tlwuyhi I lVlmted to rob him
instead oj help him.
c-~ a bottle is a mimalure oj an actual ship. Syn. misunderstand, misinterpret.

C'!% 649
4'~
L
miscreant
mis·ere·ant (mis'kr(!'ant) n., adj.
n. An evildoer: vicious crimes perpetrated by
adj.; n.; v. mod·cr·at·cd, mod·er.at·lng
miscreants.
adj. Not extreme or excessive: A. moderate
adj. Villainous: a miscreant gang of hoodlums.
amount of rain is needed for gardens.
mis·de·mean·or (mis'di·m(!'ner) n.
Any legal offense less serious than a felony.
mis·giv·ing (mis·giv'ing) n.
A feeling of doubt or mistrust: He found col­
lege work very difficult and had misgivings
about his ability to learn.
mis·hap (ll1is'hap or mis·hap') n.
Au unfortunate accident: She tripped on the
stair, and as a result of this mishap she was on
crutches for two weeks.
Syn. misfortune.
mis.no·mer (mis·no'mar) n.
An incorrect name; "Fun City" woul" be a
misnomer for a troubled to·wn.
mis.og·a·mist (mis.og'e·mist) n.
A person who hates marriage.
mis·og.y.ny (mis·oi/a·ne) n.
Hatred of womeu.--mis.og'y.nisl n., mis·
og'y.nous adj.
mis·sal (mis'al) n.
A book containing material used in cele­
brating Mass.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse 'missal and mis­
sile.
mis·shap.en (mis.sha'pan) adj.
Poorly shaped; deformed: The pitcher had a
'misshapen spout.
mis·sHe (mis'al) n.
A n object, especially a weapon, intended to
be thrown or projected: The mob threw rocks
and other missiles at the police.
mis.spell (mis·spel') v. mis·spelled or mis·
spell, mis·spell.ing
'Io spell incorrectly: List the words you mis­
~
!
spelled in this essay.
mis·tie·toe (mis'aHo) n.
A small evergreen plant having white, waxy
berries, often used as a Christmas decoration.
mit·i.gate (mit'a.gat) v. mit·j·gat·ed. mil·i·gat·
Ing
To make or become less severe or rigorous:
Morphine mitigates pain. The governor 1niti­
gated the prison sentence.
8yn. alleviate, soften, lessen.
mo·bile (mo'bal or mo'bel adj., mo'bill n.) adj.,
31.
adj. 1 Easily moved: a mobile army field hospi­
tal. 2 Capable of changing or responding
easily, as to emotions: He had the mobile face
of a well-trained actor.
n. A type of sculpture made of movable parts:
She enJoyed making mobiles.
mo·bi·Jize (mo'ba·IIz) v. mo.bi.!ized, mo·hi.liz.
ing.
1 '1'0 prepare for war: to mobilize troops. 2 To mo·not·O·llOUS (mil·not'a·llds) adj.
iWsemble and make ready for use: to mobilize
a nation's rC8ources.-mo'bi.n.za'l.ion n.
mode (mod) n .
. ' 1 A way; method: Flying is a swift mode of
travel. 21'revaUing or current style or fashion,
as of dress.
650
monsieur
mod·er·ate (mod/er·it adj., n.; mod/a· rat v.l
n. A person whose ideas or opinions are not
extreme or excessive: a political moderate.
v. To make or become less extreme or ex­
cessive: The labor union moderated its de­
mands.-mod'er·a'lion n.
mod·i.cum (mod'a·kam or med'a·kam) n.
A small amount: Doe3 that fool have even a
•
modicum of common sense?
mod·u·!ate (moj'ilO·liit) v. mod·u·lat.cd, mod.
ll.lat.ing
1 To vary the sound of: to modulate one's
voice. 2 To adjust: to modulate air pressure.-­ ~
mod'll·la'tion n.
mo.dus op·er.an.di (mo'das op'a.run/dj)
•
A Latin phrase meaning a manner of operat­ ~
ing or proceeding: The police were interested
in the criminal's modlts operandi. ~
mol·!Hy (mol'a·fj) v. mol·Ii·fled, mo).Ii·fy·ing •
To soothe or calm; The candidate tried to ~
mollify his angry campuign mal/llger.
Syn. conciliate, pacify, assuage.
mo.men·tous (me·men'tas) adj.
~
Very important: Deciding to drup the first •
atom bomb was a momentous deciaioll.-··mo. ~
men'tous·ly ac/v., mo·men/tolls·ness n.
mon·as·ler·y (mon'as·ter';;} n_, mOll.as·te·ries ~
pl.
A place where monks live in seclusion.
mOIl·e·lar·y (mon'o·ter'e) udj. , ~
Of or having to do with money; " >lwlldary
system based on gold. ~
Syn. financial, thea!.
mon·gre! (mung'gNl or mung'gral) n., adj.
n. An anima! or plant of mixed breed: Aly
dog is only a m01<grel, not a purebred.
a(lj. Of a mixed breed or kind; a mongrel lan­
, ~
guage.-·-mon'grel.ize v.
mon.j.!o.ry (mon'c·to/re or mon';)·ti.lr'e) adj. ~
Giving a warning or admonition: The kac"er
shook her finger in " 1II0nitory gesture.
mon.o.!ogue (mon/a·log) n.
A long speech by one perSOll. or a dramatic
speech or scene performed by one actor: The ~
'if(iWUnU became u: iHOnolo(lH-C 'whcn lIw 'mlt.ltaycr
got the 'IIlicropJI01!e.
ellS
mo·nop-o-!ize (m,,·nop' J·liz) v. mO.llop.o.!ized.
mo·nop.o.!iz·ing
To assume exclusive possession or control of: ~
She 1IlUnopolized the cOllversatiuI1.---mo.nop'o.
Iy n., mo.nop'o.!is'tic adj.
~
mon·o·the.ism (mon'a·the·iz',lln) n.
The doctrine or belief that there is. only one
eod. ~
Lacking change or variety: monotonous desert ~
!andscape.-mo.not'o.ny n.
Syn. repetitious. ~
mon·sieur (ma·syur / , French ma·sym') 11., meso
sieurs (mes/ar", French me'8ym') pl.
The French equivalent of Iftr. and sir. E!"!!!
@!!!!!
 moodiness nnmificcnt

mood·i·ness (mood'l!·nas) n. mot·ley (mot'lil) adj.

A depressed or nervous state of mind; On
:Mondays his moodiness became unbearable.
Syn. melancholy, moroseness.
Ant. gaiety, serenity.
moor (moor) v.
II. To secure or fasten a boat to the shore or
to an anchorage by ropes: We moored the boat
Made up of different colors, diverse elements,
or unrelated persons: The motley crowd in­
cluded hippies and crew-cut students.
moun·tain.ous (moun'td·nds) adj.
Full of mountains: Switzerland is a moun­
iainolts counlry.
SYR. hilly, rugged.

for the night. Ant. flat, plain.

mo·rass (ma·ras') n., roo·ras·ses p!. mourn·ful (morn'f8l) adj.

1 A marsh or bog. 2 Anything that perplexes Showing or causing grief; sad: tile Jmmrnful
or slows things up, as a difficult situation; whine of ihe wind.
He was trapped in a morass of paperwork. Syn. sad, doleful.
Ant. gay, happy.
mor·bid (mor'bid) adj.
mud·dle (mud'l) 1'.; v. mud·dled, lUud·dUng
1 Unhealthily concerned with death or grue~
n. A state of confusion, disorder, or uncer­
some topics: He gal morbid when depressed.
tainty; a jumble: He was in a lIwddle after
2 Grisly; unwholesome: a morbid fanlasy.·­
drinking too much.
mor'bid·ly adv.
v. '1'0 confuse, bewilder, or coniound: Tlte
mo·res (mor/az or mor'ez) n.pl. complicated figures muddled !tim.

The customs and accepted conventions of a mug.gy (mug'e) adj.

group or community: The town's mores in­ Warm and humid: a muggy June day.--mug / ­
clude regular churchgoing. gi.ness n.
mor·i.bund (mor'a·bund) adj.
mug·wump (mug'wump') n.
At the point of death; dying.
A person who is independent, as in politics:
mo·rose (ma.ros') adj. silling on the fence with the olher muvwull!ps.
Sullen or gloom¥'; ill-humored: He beca1l1e Elymology: 'Mugwump is from the Algonquin
morose when he dld not get his wa y. Indian word for "big chief." The word was
Ant. happy, bright. applied to the H.epublicans who bolted the
party when James G. Blaine was Republican
mor.phine (mor'fen) n.
~
Presidential candidate in 1884.
An addictive opiate used to induce sleep or
lessen pain. mulch (mulch) n.
Loose material such as straw, leaves, or
~
Spelling tip: The trouble spot here is phi.
manure laid around plants to protect their
mor·tal (mar'tal) adj., n. roots from cold and drying out and to prevent
~:;::..
adj. I Subject to or related to death: Humans the growth of weeds.
.........
are morial. 2 Lasting until or causing death:
He suffered a marla I wound. mulct (mulkt) v•
v. 1 '1'0 punish by a fine: The judge 1Iw/cied
~
n. A human being: laws that apply io every
morial.-mor'tal.ly adv. the corporation for improper trading practices.
2 To defraud; cheat; swindle.

~
mor·ti·cian (m6r·tish'en) n. mu!.li.pli.cu-tion (mul't;)·pl".ka'~h'>!l) >I.
A funeral director: 'i'he murticiull .I",wed the", I A mathemati(,al opBmtion to find th" sum
a lined casket. of a number that is repeatecl a certain num­
~ Syn. undertaker.
mor·ti·(y (mor'ta·fl) v. mar·ti·fled, mar.tj.!y·ing
ber of times: Multiplication oj J lime~ ;; gives
6. 2 A great or rapid increase: the multiplica­
fIs::;. 1 To humiliate; shame: HeT child's unruly be­
havior moriifi"d her. 2 To discipline the body
tiun of cars in cities.
Syn. 2 proliferation.

by fasting, etc.: The mOllk mortified himsetf Ant. 1 division. 2 clecl'ease.

~ by daily flagellation.
mo·sa·ic (mo·za'ik) n. .
mul·ti.plic·j·ty (mul'tJ'plis',He) n.
A large Ilumber: It multiplicity uj tupics was
.Cba, 1 Inlaid work in which a pattern or picture
is formed by small pieces of Ule, glass, etc.
discussed at the ,lIee/ing.
mun·dane (mun'clan) adj.
2 Anything resembling such work: The Concerning earthly things, especially ordi­
~ ligill through the stained-glass windows made a
musaic all the floor.
nary, day-to~day concerns: lIe was abuve the
mundane task of eorning a living.
~ mo·tiC (mo·tef') n.
1 A series of notes making up a theme or part
Syn. ordinary, common.
mu.nic.i.pal (Cny60·nd~,pill) adj.

~
of a theme in a musical composition: the Concerning a town or city 01' its government:
Siegfried motif in "Watkilre." 2 An underly­ 'The councillliall was a leader -in municipal
ing theme, or the main element of any work politics.
~ of art.
mo·ti·vate (mo'ta·vIH) v. mo·tj·vat·ed, mo· Ii·
mu.niC·j.cent (myoo.nif'8·sant) adj.
Extraordinarily generous (said of both gIft
.

~
vat.jog and giver): The private school received a mu­
To I;lrovide with an incentive or goal: He was nificent bequest of $1 million.
moltvated by a desire to make money. Syn. generous. liberal.
~ 8rn. incite, encourage. Ant. mean, stingy.

e~
651
<!'!!!::!I
L.

 ~t

muscle nebulous

mus·de (mus'el) n. president of General 111oiors is a nabob of

lOne of the bands of contraciile tissue that
produce bodily movement, or an organ com­
prised of these bands: shoulder muscles. 2
Power or brawn: Weight lifters hape <lIluscle.
The administration has enough muscle /0 get
the job done.
Spelling tip: Watch the -de ending.
muse (myooz) 11.; v. mused, mus<ing
n: Olle of the nine demigoddesses believed to
inspire artists: Terpsichme is the muse of the
industry.
na·dir (na'dur Or na'dir) ;1.
The lowest possible [luint: Afler ten parole
rejections the prisoner s faith ha,l rcached "its
nadir.
Ant. zenith, summit, pinnacle.
na·jve (na-ev') adj.
1 Having an unalfcctc_u or simple nature;
artless: a naive young country girl. 2 Lacking
deliberate or careful analysis: Tlwse ideas are

dance. naive.-na,he'ly adD., na.ive'ness n.

v. To consider thoughtfully: lie sat musing Spelling tip: This word is also spelled naive.

befOre the fire for an entire afternoon. Syn. 1 childlike, ingenuouo, unsophisticated.

Syn. v. ponder, meditate. Ant. 1 artful, sophisticated.

mu·si·cian (myoo·zish'"n) n. nape (nap) n.

A performer or composer uf music.--mu. The back of the neck. ~
si' cian,ly adj. naph·tha (naf'tha or nap'tha) II.
mus·lin (muz'lin) n. A volatile petroleum distillate used as a ~
solvent, cleaning fluid, fuel, etc.
A plain-weave cotton fabric, especially a
sturdy variety often used for sheets, •
nar·ds,sitiill (nar'sb-iz,um or nar'sis'iz'ulll) n.
mus·tache (mas-tash' or mus'tash) n. Excessive admiration for or fascination with ~
1 A growth of hair on the upper lip, especially oneself; self-love.-nar'ds,sist n., -nar'cis·
when cultivated or groomed. 2 The hair or sis'lic adj. ~
bristles growing near the mouth of an animal: nar·rate (na·rat' or nar'at) v. nar,ral,ed, nar·
the cat's ruustache.---mus·w.ched' adj. ral,jllg
mu·ti·latc (rnyoo'tu-l::tt) v. mu,tj,lat·cd, mu· 1 '1'0 tell or rda!,,: tv nurruie a "tory. ::\ To
~
ii.lat,jng
speak in accompaniment and explanation of: •
1 To deprive a living being of a limb or es­
He narrated movies vf their trip.-nar,ra'tor n. ~
sential part: He was mutilated in the war.
Syn. 1 recount, state, recite,
l
2 To damage or injure by the removal of an
nas·cent (na'sunt or nas'"nt) adj.
important part: Narruw-minded censorship
Beginning to exbt or develop; newly con­

~
mutilated the mOLie.--<mu'ti,la'tion, mu'ti,
ceived: the na,cent "cienee of sociofogy.-nas'­
la'tor n.
cenee, nas' cen, cy II.

mu·ii·nous ( myoo'ta·nes) adj. Syn. youthful, rising, Dudding.

Disposed to or involved in mutiny: The mu­ Ant. mature, developed, grown.

tinous crew hanged the caplain of the ship. na·tal (niH'I) adj.
Syn. seditiuus, rebellious.
Of or perLainill;( to a per:;on's birLh.
Ant. loyal, obedient.
nau·ti·cal (no'ti·k"l) adj.
rnu·tu·al (myoo'choo-al) adj. Pertaining to ur involving ships, seamen, or
navigation: Columbus' n(l!L/ieal churts were
1 Felt, expressed, or performed for or toward
quite primitive.-- nuu'ti.cal-Iy adc. ~
each other by the persons or parties con.
cerned: Their mutual hale de"troycli their lives. na·val (Ilii'val) adj.
2 Having the same attitude toward or re­ 1 Of, involving, or having a navy: England ~
lationship with each other or others: mutua! became a nava! power in Ihe sixteenth cenhtry. I

friends. 3 Possessed or held in common: 2 Of or pertaining to ships: " naval officer. ~

Tlieir friendship is based on mutual interests. nave (nilY) n. t
-mu'tu.al·ly adu. The main body of a church, situated hetween
rnyr.j·ad (mir'e,ad) ad.j., n. the side aisles: Golhic churchs usually have ~
<ldj. Consisting of a verr large, indefinite hllye narcs.
number: the myriad st"rs I'll the firmament, na·vel (na'vill) n. ~
n. 1 Ten thousand, 2 A vast number of per­
The depl'es~ion Oil the abdomen where the
sons or things: .4 myria(L of m.inor difficulties
umbilical cord was attached.
caused his nervous breakdowll.
Syn. umbilicus, bellybutton. ~
Syn. adj. innumerable, countless.
neb.u,la (neb'y.:l'l0) 1/" ncb,u,lae (neb'YJ,le)
Ant. adj. determinate, limited.
or neb.u-Ias pI. ~
myrrh ( mur) n. Any interstdlar mass of clolldlibl appear­
An aromatic gum resin exuding from certain ance and vast extent, often luminuus, and
small Arabian and African trees, used as in­ composed of gaseous matter in various
~
cense, perfume, and in medicine. degrees of density.

neb·u·\ous (ne!J'YJ,10s) adj. ~

N I Of, pertaining to, or like a nebula. 2 Cloudy;
misty: a nebulous day. 3 Vague or confused; ~
na·bob (na'bob) I!. unclear: JIe see"'ecllo have a nebulous idea of

1 A European who has become fic:h in India. his ligids,-'-neb'u.lous-Iy a,xv., neh'u,lous.

2 Any very rich or power!ul mall: '1'h.; nc:,.;:,.; 14. ~

~
652
necessary
nec·es·sar·y (nesta·sere) ad.j.
1 Absolutely needed; essential and indispens­
able: Hard work is necessary for success.
2 Being of such a nature that it must exist or
occur; inevitable: The cancellalion of the
program was a necessary consequence of the
lack of funds to finance it.
ne·ces·si·tate (na·ses'a·tal)v. ne.ces·si.tat·ed,
ne·ces·si·tat·ing
To make necessary: 'Phe rain necessitated a
postponement of the gamc.-ne·ces'si.ta'tion
n., ne·ces'si.la'tive ad.j.
Syn. force, oblige.
nee (na) adj.
Born with the name of (used chiefly to note
the maiden name of a married woman): Mrs.
Jane Jones, nee Jane Smilh.
Spelling lip: This word is also spelled nee.
ne·far·j·ous (ni.tar'e·as) adj.
Extremely wicked; vile; a nefarious plot 10
overthrow the Prcsident.~-ne.far'i.ous.ly adv.,
ne·far'j·ous·ness n.
Syn. villainous, infamous, evil.
ue·ga·tion (ni·ga'sh,m) 11.
1 The absence or opposite of something
considered affirmative or existent: Sleep is
the negation of consciousness. 2 The act of
denying or contradicting: Her negation of his
statement was based on femi1Line intuition.
8yn. 2 denial, contradiction, disavowal.
Ant. 2 affirmation, assertion, declaration.
neg·li·gent (neg'la·jant) adj.
Irresponsible or incautious: She was negligent
about w(ltching the baby. and that is why he fell.
8yn. careless. reckless.
Ant. reliable, careful, cautious.
nei·ther (ne'tJ.ar or ni'tJ.ar) adj.• pron., conj.
adj. Not either: Neither eye has perfect visioll.
proll. Not the one nor the other; Neither of
the huts is becoming.
conj. 1 Not either: He neither reads nor 1vrites.
2 N or yet: He cannot write; neither can he
read.
Spelling lip: Note that this word is an
exception to the i before e rule.
nem·e·sis (nem'Q'sis) n., nem·e·ses (nem'a·
sllz) pl.
1 An unusually tenacious or fearsome
opponent: Wellington was Napo/eon'l! neme­
SlS. 2 An instrument of just retribution or
vengeance: He urill meet his nemesis sooner or
la/,:r.
Etymology: In Greek mythology, Nemesis
was the goddess of retributive justice or
vengeanc.e.
ne·o.phyte (ne'a·flt) n.
AllY novice or beginner; 11speciully, ,)l1e who
is newly ordained or admitted into a religious
or mystic ordnr; 'I'he actress 1.'U8 such u
ncopllyte that her knees .honk wlwn she was on
stage.
nep,h.ew (nef'yOo) n.
'1 he son of a brother or brother-in-law or of
a sister or sister-in-Ia w.
nep.o·[iam (nep'a·tiz'am) n.
Favoritism; especially, governmental pa-
nocturnal
tronage extended toward relatives; IIe denied
that nepotism was a fllctor in the appoinlment
of his brolher-in-law to the high-paying job.
nes·tle ()les'al) v. nes.tled lI,,;;·iling
1 To lie or press closely and snugly; cuddle;
snuggle: 2'he kittens nestled up to their mother.
2 To settle down in comfort and pleasure: to
nestle among the pillows. 3 To lie or be
embedded, sheltered, or half-hidden: 'l'he
cot/age nestled in a quid valley.
net,tle (net'l) n.;v. net· tied, net.lIiug
n. A plant having leaves with minute hairs
tha t sting when touched.
V. '1'0 annoy or irritate; lleri"Bi,icllcc ,,"tlled
him.
Syn.v. provoke. pique, exasperate.
neu·rol.o.gy (n(y)oo.rol'il·je) n.
The branch of medicine that deals with the
nervous system and its disorders.-- neu'ro·
log'i·cal adj.• neu·rol'o·gist n.
new·el (n(y)60'v!) ll.
The post that terminates the handrail of a
stairc~se. It is also called a newel posl.
nib (tlib) n. .
1 The point of a pen. 2 '1'he projectmg,
pointed part of anything; tip. 3 The beak or
bill of a bird.
llj.ce·!y (nj's,,·te) 11., ni·ce·lics 1'1.
1 Usually pI. A minute or suLtie point,
detail. or distinction: The niceties of science
elude the untrained mind. 2 Usually pI.
Delicacy or refinement; Nicelies at dinnertime
include candlelight ,mt! linen napkins.
niche (nich) n.
1 A recessed space or hollow, usually in a
wall, for a statue or the like. 2 Any position
specially adapted to its occupant: The
graduates must find their own niches in society.
Syn. 1 nook, cavity. 2 spot. place.
nick·el (nik'al) n.
1 A hard. silver-white metallic element. 2 A
five-cent U.S. coin containing nickel.
nig.gard·Jy (nig'"rd.!e) (tc/j., wlv.
adj. Stingy or ~canty; She got !! niggardly
portion of spaghe/ii.
adv. In a stingy manner: 1'he governor acted
nigflardly in aut/wrizil1g moncy for lhe needy
umversily.
nir.va·na (nir·va'na or nur.van',,) n.
1 In Buddhism The state of absolute felicity,
characterized by freedom from passion,
desire, suffering, etc.: Nirva1ia is attained
through a",tiltillltia,j of II", "I'lf. 2 A ny state of
complete happiness; Nice clullio" (l1Id hand­
some friends are her idea of "in'm",.
no·bless o·blige (no-bles' Q·llled,')
A French phrasr; meaninl;{ that those of high
birth, wealth, Of SOCial pUHilion lJ1USt
b1lhave generously or nobly toward others
(literally, "nobility obligates").
noc·tur·nal (nok-tur'nal) adj.
1 Of, pertuining to, or occurring at night; Tlte
Anny acont 'rnade a noctuT1wt journey behind
enemy lines. 2 Active. blooming, etc., by night:
Owls are nocturnal birds."~noc·tur'nal.ly adv.
653
nocturne
noc·turne (nok/turn) n.
I'll music A composition of a pensive or
romantic nature.
no·mad (no'mad or nom'ad) n.
n. 1 Olle of a group of people that habitually
shifts its abode to find food, avoid drought,
etc.: She~pherder8 are often nomads, constantly
seeking better grazing lands. 2 A person who
constantly Illoves about, usually without
purpose.-no.mad'ic adj.
nom de plume (nom' d3 ploom')
A writer's assumed name: O. Henry was the
nom de plume of William Sydney Parler.
Etymology: Tbis French expression comes
from nom (name) + +
de (of) plume (pen).
Syn, pen name.
no.men·cla·ture (nO'men-kW.'char or no-men'·
kla·char) n.
The system of names used to describe every·
thing discussed in a particular science: The
nomenclature of botany includes Latin names
for every plant.
Syn. terminology.
nom·i·nal (nom'a·nal) adj.
1 Existing in name rather than in fact: The
kinQ waS nominal ruler of the country, but the
army had real control. 2 Trilling or inconsitler­
able; token: The entrance fee was a nominal
Bum of ten cents.--nom'j-nal-Iy adv.
Syn. 1 sa-called. 2 insignificant.
Ant. 1 actual, virtual. 2 significant, sub­
stantial.
non·cha·lanL (non'sha-Iant or non'sila·lant')
adj.
Marked by or acting with a lack of interest or
excitement: He was nonchalant about his
victory, and did not even appear at the award
ceremony.-non'cha-lancc n., Ilun'cha.lant.ly
adv.
Syn. casual, ullconcerned.
Ant. 1 veteran, expert.
Ant. excited, keen.
non·com·mit·tal (non'ka-miL'1) adj.
Avoiding committing oneself to an opinion,
attitude, etc.: He was noncommittal ab01<i
running for office.
Ant. forthright, outspoken.
non.de.script (non'da-skript) adj.
Lacking individual character: She described
the thief as a nondescript man of about forty.
non·en·ti·Ly (non·en'ta.te) n.
One who or that which is of liWe or no
account: Recent U.S. Presidents have given
specific responsibilities to the Vice President so
that he l,;iI! 1I0t be a noncnlity.
Syn. nobody.
Ant. somebody, personage.
non·pa·rei! (non'pa·rel') adj., n.
adj. Haying no equal; malchlesB: a nonpareil
performance by the great actor.
n. One who has no equal: A Stradivarius is "
nonpareil mnong violins.
Spelling tip: Note that nonpareil is one of the
celebrated on 'l'hursday.
i before e exceptions.
uu·tri·ent (noo'tre·anl) adj., n.
Syn. adj. unrivaled, peerless. n. paragon.
adj. Giving nourishment; nutritious: a nutri­
non seq·ui·tur (non sek'wa·tar)
A remark or. conclusion that is irrelevant to,
or does not follow from, what has been said
654
nutrient
before: It would be a non sequilur to relate the
whiteness of polar bea rs 10 the absellce of honey
in the Arctic.
Etymology: This Latin phrase literally tI!!!!!!!..
means "it does not follow."
nose· gay (noz'ga') n.
A small bunch of tlowers: Tlw jlowergir! ~ -
carried a 110segClY of violets.
Syn. posy, bouquet. ~
"
til
Ilos.tal'!lii.a (nos·tal'ja) n.
A longmg for things and place" that are far
away or gone forever: The old man looked ~
III
back lInth nostalgia on ihe days of his youth.­
nos·tal'gic adj. ~
Ilo·!a.rize (no'td-rlz) v. no·ta-rized, no·La·riz.
ing ~ "
To aUest to or authenticate as a notary: The III
document was notarized.
no·lice·a·ble (nOftis-a·bal) adj. ~
Easily seen or worthy of attention: The •
veteran has a noticeable limp. An (lctress
noticeable for her diction.·-no'tice·a·bly adv.
1I0·to·ri·ous (no-tar'e·as) adj.
Widely known and generally disapproved of:
fle is notorions for his <::rtr"""g(/l1CC.~- no'Lo· •
ri'c.iy n.
Syn. infamou".
nOll·veau riche (no(/vo' resh') Ilou-ycaux
riches (noo'vo' resh') pI.
Someone who has recenlly become rkh
(usually employed us a term of ab\l~c); The
hOUV(',w.c riches 11 ext duo I' /I,u·c built two
swimming pools.
nov·ice (noy'is) n.
1 A beginner in <lny occupation: He was a
lW!'ice at bri('uc. 2 A member of " rdigiolls
order who has not taken vows.
Syn. 1 lyro, beginner, recruit.
nox·ious (nok'shi>s) adj.
Causing harm to health or morals: nuxious
factor y fumes.
Syn. harmful, injurions.
Ant. beneficial, healthy.
nll·ga·to·ry (noo'gHar'e) wlj.
Having no worth or meaning.
nui·sance (n(y)oo'sQns) n.
Anything or anyone tlla t a nuoy" or causes
trouble: 'That insistent pallhandler is a rea!
nuisance.
Syn. trouble, annoyallce, }Jest.
nUlUb (num) adj.
Without feeling: lIer fingers were numb frorn
the cold.
Syn. senseless, ulliee\ing:.
lIup-lial (nup'sh01) adj .• n.
adj. Of or pertaiuing to marriug() or the
marriage ceremony: the n Itptial ritcH.
ll. U suaUy pI. Wedding: Their nuptials were
ent solution for intravelWllS fcerlifiY.
n. Something that nourishes; food: Planlo
reqllirc chemical nutrients,
oasis
o you were nice/" is an oblique co mpliment.
o·a·sis «).ii' sis) n., o·a·ses (i:Hi'sez) pI.
~ An area in a desert made fertile by natural
springs or irrigation. 2 Figuratively, a place
of relief or pleasure in otherwise unpleasant
surroundings: Her house was a musical oasis in
a cultural desert.
oath (nth) n.
1 A formal declaration in support of a pledge
or statement, usually based on an appeal to
God: He swore an oath to protect his country.
2 A blasphemous imprecation: With an oath,
Blackbeard sprang aboard.
ob·du.rate (ob'dya.rit or ob'dya·rat) adj.
Hardened against the influence or arguments
of others: He was obdurate in his determina­
tion to punish his son.
Syn. inflexible, hardhearted.
Ant. soft, compassionate.
o·be.di·ence (ii·be'de·ans) n.
The act or habit of submitting to authority:
The Nuremberg trials condemned obedience to
unjust laws.
Syn. Bubmissiveness, conformity.
Alit. rebellion, defiance ..
o·be·di·ent (i)·he'de·ant) adj.
Following or submitting to orders: an
obedient wije.-o.be'di.ent.ly adv.
Syn. compliant, docile.
Ant. unruly, defiant.
o·bei·sance (ii·ba'sans or (j·b;:;'sans) n.
An act of homage, such as a bow or curtsy:
He made his obeisances to his sovereign.
Spelling tip: Remember i before e except
after c, or when sounded like a-~as in one
pronunciation of obeisance.
ob·e·lisk (ob'a·Jisk) n.
A square shaft of stone tapering to a point,
used as a monument: The IVaahinglon
Monument is an obelisk.
o·bese (i)·bes') adj.
Exceedingly fat: He was so obese he could not
move himself.-o.bes'i.ty n.
o.bit·u·a.ry (o·bich'ao.er'e) n., o·bit·u.a.ries pI.
A published notice of a death, especially in
a newspaper: The obituary included a brief
biographical sketch of the dead mayor.
ob.lig.a.to.ry (,,·blig'a·tor'e or ob'la·ga.tOr'e)
adj.
Being a duty or obligation: It is obligatory 10
write thank-you notes for wedding presents.
Syn. required, expected.
Ant. unnecessary, optional.
1I.blige (a~blji') v. o.bliged, o.blig·ing
1 To make indebted, ail by a favor: 1'IIl
obliged to Y01' for your kindness. 2 To do a
favor: }It, obliged them by answering their
questions. 3 To require or coerce: StUdents arc
obliged to take examinations.
Syn. 2 help, assist. 3 compel, force.
obtwJe to under"tand a compler problem. 2
Ant. 2 hinder, resist.
Blunt or rounded, as opposed to sharp or
ob·lique (a·blek') adj.
angular: an obtuse object with no ~poinied
• Slanting: Draw an oblique line from the top
right-hand corner to the bottom left-hand corner.
2 Indirect: "When we met I didn't realize
obtuse
-ob·lique'ly adv~, ob·lique'ness n.
Syn. 1 sloping, diagonal. 2 devious, round­
about.
Ant. 2 straightforward, direct.
ob·lit·er·ate (a·blit'a·raLj v. ob.lit·er.al~ed, ob.
lit.er.at.ing
'fo destroy utterly, leaving no trace; COlll­
pletely exterminate or erase: The nuclcar
bomb obliterated an entire city.
Syn. wipe out, eradicate, raze.
Ant. create, preServe, build.
ob·liv·i·on (e·bliv'e·an) n.
1 Total forgetfulness or unawareness: the
oblivion of a man in a drunken stupor. 2 The
condition of being totally forgotten; the
eventual oblivion oj many onc(5-famollsmen.
Syn. 2 obscurity.
Ant. 1 awareness, realization. 2 fame,
immortality.
ob.nox·ious (eb·nok'shils) adj.
Very unpleasant (as a taste or smell) or very
disagreeable or vulgar (as a person); revolt­
ing or objectionable; a joul, obnoxious odor;
a vulgar, obnuxious businessman.
ob.se·qui·lIus ("b·se'kwe·as) adj.
Submissive and flattering in a cringing way:
an obsequious courlier fiallering the king. -ob.
se'qui.ous.ly adv., ob.se'qui.ou~.ness n.
Syn. servile, toadying, sycophantic.
Ant. proud, independent, rebellious.
ob·so.les·cence (ob'sa·les'ans) n.
The process of becoming out-ol-date and
going out of usc.
Syn. decline, displacement.
ob·so·lete (ob'sa·let or ob'sa·let') adj.
Qutdated or no longer used.
ob·sta·cle (ob'sta·kal) n.
A hindrance or obstruction: A stammer is an
obstacle to a public-speaking career.
Syn. handicap, barrier, impediment.
Ant. asset, advantage.
ob.sti·nate (ob'sta.nit) adj.
I Insisten tiy maintaining one's position; II e
was fired because of his obstina!e refusal 10
follow orders. 2 Difiicult to overcome: an
obstinate cold.
Syn. 1 stubborn, inflexible. .2 persistent,
tenacious.
Ant. 1 willing, reasonable.
ob.strcp·er.Qus (ab·strep'ar.as) adj.
Noisy or boisterous, especially in defiance of
instructions or requests: The leacher cunld not
force the obstreperous children to s'it (juietly.­
Qb.~trep'cr.ous.ly ,,<iv., ob.strep'er.QU8.11CSS n.
Syn. unruly, unnlUnageallle, wild.
Ant. quiet. obedient, docile.
ob·tuse ("b·L(y)Oos') adj.
1 Dull-witted or insen~itive; very slow or
unable to perceive or understand, lIe is 100
coruers.--ob.luse'ly "dv., ob·tuse'nells n .
Syn. 1 dull, stupid. 2 dull.
Ant. 1 bright, sharp. .2 sharp, lloinleu.
655
obviate
ob·vi·ate (ob'viHit) v. ob·vi·at·ed, ob.vi.at.ing
To prevent or remove a diffic.ulty, drawback,
etc.: Tinted light bulbs obviate the problem of
glare.~ob'vi.a'tion n.
Syn. eliminate, avoid.
Ant. create, aggravate.
oc·ca·sion (a·kli'zhan) n., v.
n. I An event, the time of an event, the cause
of something, or an opportunity to do some­
thing: I saw hcr on three occasions. Your
birthday is a good occasl'on for a party. 2 A
large, formal social event: 1'he inaugural ball
was quite an occasion!
v. To cause: What occusioned their quarrel?
oc·ca·sion.aI (a·kli'zhan·al) adj.
Occurring now and then: all occasional visit
/0 your in-law8.-oc.ca'sion.al.ly adv.
slve.ness n.
Syn. sporadic, infrequent.
Syn. disagreeable, foul.
Oc·ci·dent ( ok'sa·dent) n.
~
The area of the world west of Asia: the Asian
culture of the Orient and Ihe European culture
of the Occident.
Syn. West.
which the bread and wine to be cOll"ecrated
Ant. Orient, East, Asia.
are offered and alms are collected: The
oc·cu·py (ok'ya·pi) v. oe.eu.pied, oc.cu.py.lng
I To fill up a piece of ground or span of time:
1'he fuctory occupies two acres. 2 To li ve in a
house: Who occupies the cottage? 3 To keep a
person busy or interested: lIe occupies hl1iL­
sdf until stamp collecting. 4 To take and hold
I
possession of br, or as if by, conquest or
~
s<Jtll<:menl. S(;Vlet tro01J8 OCCU1,i.:d Czecl/Oslo­ oDiciul approval frow lht; UWlJO{'g ol]j(:e.
vakia.
Syn. 1 cover, span. 2 inhabit. :I concern,
authoritative, formal.
interest. " overrun, garrison.
AnI. adj. unotlicial, inform"l.
Ant. 4 liberate.
oc·cur (a·kur') v. oc·curred, oc.cur.ring
I To happen: 1'he hurrica1!e occurred 01\ May
7.'2 To be thought of; to enter the mind: II
never occurred to me!-oc.cur'rence 11.
Spelling tip: Note there is one r in the base
word occur. However. occurred, occurring,
and occurrence double the r.
o·ce·an·ic (ii'sM·an'ik) adj.
Living in or pertaining to the ocean: whales,
sharks, and other oceanic life.
oc·u·lar (ok'ya·lm) adj.
Pertaining to, Uke, or part or the eye:
Glaucoma is an ocular disease.
Syn. optical, optic, visual.
oc·u·list (ok'ya·list) n.
One skilled in treating diseases of the eye;
ophthalmologist.
o·di·ous (o'de.as) adj.
Syn. oleo.
Hateful or disgusting: an odious perSOIl.
ol·fac·to·ry (o!·fak'tur.(! or ol·fnk'tre) adj.
Syn. loathsome, abominable.
Pertaining to the sense of smell; liue perfumes
Ant. commendable, delightful.
and other oUaciory plea$ures.
o·dor.if·er·ous (a'da·rif'ar·as) adj.
Having or giving off an odor, especially an
agreeable odor: odoriferous lilacs.
Syn. fragrant, aromatic.
o·dor·ous (a'dar·as) adj.
Having an odor.-i)'dor.ous·ly adv., o'dor.
ous·ness n.
od·ys·sey (od'a·se) n.
A long, wandering trip: a seven-year round-
656
omelet
Ihe-tcorld odyssey.
Etymology: Thi" word derive" from the
Odyssey, a long poem by the ancient Greek
poet Homer. The poem describes travels of
Odysseus (or Ulysses), king of Ithaca, for ten
years after the Trojan War.
Syn. travels, journey.
of·fal (o'fal) n.
1 T he parts of a butchered animal that are
worthless: The Dffalis burned in an incirwra­
tor. 2 Rubbish or refuse of any kind: a garbage
cun filled ·with offul. ("!!!t!I
Syn. 2 waste, garbage.
of·fen·sive (a·fen'siv) adj. ~
Rude or unpleasant: an offensive remark; an
Offensive smell.-o(·fen'~ive.ly adv., of.fen'­
~
Ant. nice, appealing.
of·fer·to.ry (a'far·tor'e. a'far·to're, or oI'ur·tar'­
e) n., of·fer.to·ries pI.
1 The portion oI a church service during ~
I
~
offerlory t!sually follolVs the sayillg of the
Creed. 2 A collection taken, hymn sung, or
prayer recit.ed at such time. ~
I
of·.fi·dal (a·fish',,\) n., adj.
n. The holder of a public olllce: a minor ~
govcnmlenl official.
adj. Coming from or ,;upporlml by authority:
Syn. 11. oflic(Jhohler. adj. authorized,
of·H·cious (a·fish' "s) adj.
Meddlesome: interfering ill what i~ aot one's
concern: an officious busybody vff"ring un­
needed a;td umvdcome atlvicc.-· o(.Jj'cious.ly
aciv., oC./i'cious.ness n.
Syn. interfering, obtrusi ve.
oft·en (Of'.ln or Of'dll) uJv.
Frequently: lIe often visits hi$ mother.
Syn. repeatedly, recurrently.
Ant. seldom, rarely.
o.glc «.I'g01) v. o·gl..,d, o·gling
To look ac admiringly in all amorous and
iI!'l'ertinent manner: a man Qgliug a pretty
gul. .
o·le·o·mar·ga.rine (o'ltHHniir'j,,·rin) n.
A butter suLstitute containing more animal
fat than does margarine.
ol·i·gar·chy (ol',,·glir'ke) n., ol.i.gar.chies 1)1.
A form of government in which power is
restricted to a few: an oligarchy ruled by the
members of a small sect.
om·e·let (om'a·lit or om'lit) 11.
A dish of eggs beaten together with water or
milk and cooked in a frying pan.
Spelling Up: Note that thIS word is also
spelled omelette.
ominous
om·i·nous (om'a·nas) adj.
Threatening: an ominous silcnce.~om'i.nous.
Iyadv.
Syn. menacing, sinister.
adj. 1 Consisting of opium. 2 Tending to
Ant. encouraging, auspicious.
induce sleep.
o·mis.sion (o,mish'an) n.
The act of omitting or the state of being
omitted: The omission of a word in the
Bentence made it unintelligible.
om.nip.o.ten! (om.nip'a.tant) adj.
AlmIghty; not limited in authority or power.
om.ni.pres.ent (om'na.prez'ant) adj.
Being everywhere at the same time: The
Pr~sident must accept the omnipresent Secret
Service men.
Syn. ubiquitous.
om·nis·cience (om·nish',ms) n.
1 Infinite knowledge: Since no human has
omniscience, each '{(tUBt accept advice. 2 (Usu­
ally capital 0) God.-om.nis'cient.ly adv.
once (wuns) adv.
lOne time: I went there once. 2 At or during
some past time: a once famous writer.
on·cr·ous (on'ar·as) adj.
Burdensome or oppressive: the onerous work
of carrying bricks.-on'er.ous.ly adv.
on.o·ma!.o·poe.ia (on'a·mat'a·pe'a) n.
The formation of words in imitation of
natural Hounds, or the words so formed, H!:I
crack, splash, etc.
on· slaugh! (on'sI6t' or 6n'sI6t') n.
A violent, often hostile assault: a verbal on­
slaught by u,ilitants on conservative college
students.
on·yx (on'iks) n.
A semiprecious variety of quartz having
layers of different colors.
o·pal·es·cen! (o'pal·es'ant) adj.
Having an iridescent play of brilliant or
milky colors.
o·paque (o·pak') adj.
1 Impervious to light; not translucent or
transparent: The auditorium has opaque
shades to keep out the light when movies are
shown. 2 Impervious to radiant heat,
electric radiation, etc.-o.paljue'ly ad,'., o.
paque'ness n.
op·er·a(e (op'a·rat) v. op·er.at·ed, op.er.at.ing
1 To act or function; work: 'l'he clock
operates by batteries. 2 To bring about an
effect: The medicine operated quickly. 3 To
perform an operation on the body: The doctor
operated on the little girl. 4 To control the
working of, as a machine: 11e operates a lathe.
--op'er-a/tion n.
Syn. perform, function, work.
op·er·a·!or (op'a·ra'tar) n.
A person who works a mechanism or whu
runs a business, factory, etc.: a telephone
operator; the operator of a coal mine.
oph.thal.mol.o.gist (of'thal·mol'a·jist) n.
A physician specializing in the study of the
structure, functions, and diseases of the eye.
o·pi·a!e (o'pe.it or o'pe.at) n., adj.
n. 1 A medicine containing opium and there-
option
fore inducing relaxation or sleep. 2 Anything
bringing relaxation or sleep: Listening to
lightly falling rain was her opiate.
op·po·nent (a·po'nant) n.
One who opposes another, as in battle,
debate, sports etc.: football. opponents.
Syn. adversary, antagonist.
Ant. supporter.
op·por·tune (op'ar·t(y)oon') adj.
1 Especially right or fit: A patio is an
opportune place for a barbecue. 2 Occurring at
the right moment: The opportune time to
request a raise is when the boss is in a guod
mood.
Syn. 1 appropriate, suilable. 2 timely.
Ant. 1 inappropriate, unsuitable. 2 untimely.
op.por.(u·nis( (op'Jr·t(y)iJij'nisL) II.
A person w~lO uses every opporLullity to
achieve some end, paying little attention to
moral principles or sentimenL.-op'por.!u.
nis'tic adj., op'por.tu'nism n.
op.por.!u.ni.(y (op'Jr·t(y)6<J'llJ·te) n., op·por.
tu·ni.ties pI.
A fit or con venient time; favorable occasion
or circumstance: an opportunity tu buy a car.
Syn. chance, Qpening, break.
op· pose (a·paz') v. op'(lOsed, op·pos·ing
1 Tu act or bl; agajllsL; re:-li~L or fight:
Democrats oppose Republicans. 2 To set up
against or contrast: love as opposed to Itate.­
op.pos'er n.
op.po.site (op'a·zit) adj., n., prep.
adj. IOn the other side, or on each side, of an
intervening space or thing: opposite cuds of the
room. 2 Contrary: opposite directions.
n. Something or someone that is opposed or
contrary: That weakling is just th opposite of
his burly father.
prep. Across from; facing: IIe sat oppusite me.
-op·po·site·ly adv.
Usage: Opposite refers to things totally
contrary to each other. j1pposite, frequently
mistaken fur opposite, means apt or appro­
priate: All/wugh his political btli"fs were
totally opposite to mine, I found his remarks
quite apposite to the subject of the debate.
op· pro·bri. urn (a.prci'bre·am) n.
The reproach brought about by shameful
conduct; ignominy: JIer wild behavior has
brought great opprobrilon on her family.
Syn. infamy, disgrace.
op·(j·dan (op·tish',m) n.
One who makes or deals in optical goods.
op·ti·mism (op'ta·miz'm) n.
A disposition to look on the bright side of
tbings.-op'(i.mis( n., op'Li.mis'Lic adj.
An!. pes::limism.
op·lion (up'sh,HI) n.
1 The right, power, or liberty of choosing;
discretion: They rearranged his office while he
was away and did not give him any uption in
the mu/ter. 2 The purchased privil"ge of either
buying or sellillg something at a specific
price within a speeified time: an optiun to buy
657

optometrist
a house. 3 A thing that is or can be chosen: He
selected Ihe first of the two oftions open to him.
~op'tion.al adj., op'lion.a .Iy adv.
op·tom.e·trist (op·tom'o·trist) n.
A person trained to measure visual ability
and to prescribe corrective ien.es.
op·u.)cllce (op'yo.Jens) n.
I Wealth; affluence: the opulence of the palace.
2 Luxuriance; abundance: the opulence of the
Amazon vegetation. Also op.u.len.cy (op'ya.
lan·s!!) n.-op'u.lent adj.
o·pus (O'pas) n .• op·er·a (op'ar.a or op'ril) pI.
A literary or musical work or composition.
o·ral (Or 'a I or O'ral) adj., n.
adj. 1 Consisting of spoken words: oral testi­
mony. 2 Of or pertaining to the mouth; sit­
uated at or near the mouth: oral surgery.
n. Usually pl. An academic examination in
which the student speaks his answers aloud:
If e passed his orals yesterday.
Usage: Although aural and oral sound alike
to most speakers, the former refers to the ear
or the Bense of heuring, not to the mouth: an
aural acuity te~t.
o.rang·u·tari (O·rang'a·tan or o·rung'Cf6·tan)
n., o.rang·u·tans or o·rang·u·tan pl.
A large ape of Borneo and Sumatra, having
brownish red hair and extremeJy long arms.
or·a·to·ri,o (or'a-tor'iHl or Or'a·to'rii·o) n., or·
a·to·ri·os pl.
A musical composition for solo voices,
chorus, and orchestra, usually dramatizing
a sacred story, but without scenery or acting.
or·bit (or'bit) n., D.
n. The path followed by a heavenly body or
artificial satellite about its center of attrac­
tion: the orbit of the earth around the HUTL
II. To move or cause to move in an' orbit: The
moon orbits around the earth.-or'bHal adj.
or·deal ( or·del' or or'del) n.
A severe test of character or endurance: lie
survived the ordeal of two weeks alone in the
jungle.
of·di·nance (Or'da-nans) n.
An authoritative rule; an order, decree, or
law of a municipal body: a traffic ordinance.
or.di.nar-y (or'di)·ner'e) adj.
I Of common or everyday occurrence;
customary: an ordinary problem. 2 Of
average merit or consequence; commonplace:
an ordinary concer/.
ord'nance (Ord'nans) n.
11 Hitary weapons, ammunition, combat
vehicles, etc.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse ordinance and
ordnance.
of·gan·i·za·tion (Or·gan.a.za'shan) n.
I The act or state of arranging systemat­
ically: Careful organization made the meeting
mn smoolhly. 2 A group working together
with the same or similar aims: the Organiza­
tion of American States.
or.gan·iz·er (or'g;:m·!z'~r) n.
A person who puts things in good order,
works methodically, or brings people
658
.,
ostracize
together and motivates them in a common
cause: File clerks should be I/I)od organizers of '.
ddail. A union organizer recruited members.
Spelling tip: Remember the final -er by •
starling with orgauize and then adding r.
or·gy (or'je) n., or.gies pI. •
1 A debauched or drun],en party: The dcclilw
of kame wa. marked by a prevalence of orgies.
.,
2 Any uncontrolled excess: He indulged in an
orgy of self-abasement.,-- or'gi.as'tic adj.
or·i· lice (Or'a-fis) n.
An opening into a hole or cavily: Nvstrits and
mouths are facial orifices.
of.i.gin (Or'a·jill) n.
The beginning of anything; the primary
cause of something: The origins of man are
lost in obscurity.
Syn. source, rising, cause.
or· nate (or· nat') adj.
Elaborately ornamented; florid or showy:
The gold, jewel-encrusted 'Walls were too ornate
fur her taste.
Syn. elaborale, flamboyant.
Ant. plain, simple.
of.ni.thol·o·gy (Or'nd·thol'<).je) n.
The study of birds.~-or'ni.thol'o·gist n.
o·ro·tund (or'a·lund) adj.
I With a well-rounded, resonant voice:
Baritones should be orutund. 2 Pompous;
inflated: The senator ma(le an orotund speech.
Etymology: 'Orotund comes from the Latin
phrase ore rotut!<lo, meaning with a round
mouth.
or.phan (or'fan) n., v.
n. A child whose parenls are dead.
v. To make an orpban: Ile wus orphaned bll
the death of his IH"ellia in (lJl (lccident.
or·tho·dou-tist (6r'tha·don'tist) 11.
A dentist specializing in correcting irregular­
ities in the set of the teeth: The orthodontist
advised braces for the "hild's iceth.
os·cil·lute (os'J·Hil) v. os·dl·iut-cd, o,;·dl.lat.
ing
'ro swing buck and furth, as a pendulum: He
oscillated between two courses of action.~~~os'­
dUn'lion n.
Syn. vudHate, vibrate.
os·ten·si·ble (os·ten'sd·bdl) adj.
Offered as real or genuine: The ostensible
reason for the trip was to ailend a convention,
but actually he wall ted a vacalion.-os·ten'si.
blyadv.
Syn. apparent, professed.
os-ten·ta·tious ( os'tan·ta'sh.ls) adj.
Intended to attract nolice: fI is gold-plated
Rolls-Royce ~eemed unduly oiJtentaiious.
Syn. showy, conspicuous.
Ant. subdued, modest.
os·te·o·path (os'le,a-path') n.
A person who attempts to heal diseases by
manipulation of affected parts of the body.
--os'te·op'a.thy II.
Syn. chiropractur.
os·tra·cize (os'tra-slz) v. os-tra·cized, os·tra·
ciz·ing
ought panegyric

pa.luY.er (pa·lav'ar) n., v.

'1'0 exclude from a particular society or
group: lIe was socially oslracized afler his
n. 1 Empty talk. 2 A public discll;;sion or
scandalous divorce. cOllference.
ought (ot) v. v. '1'0 flatter or talk idly and at length.-pa.
lav'er.er n.
To be obliged by duty or common sense, or
to be expected: You ought 10 lell the truth. The
pal.elte (pal'it) n.
train ought to be here any minute.
1 A thin board with a hole for the thumb,
Spelling tip: Do not confuse ought with
used by artists to mix their colors. 2 The

augh! (meaning zero). colors characteristic of an artist, painting,

oust (oust) v. etc.: lIe used a wide palcite.

To force out from a place or position: The

Spelling tip: This word is also spelled pullet.

incompetent man wus ousted from his job.

Val .lid (pal'id) adj.
Syn. eject, expe\. Pale; weak; lackillg; ill color; " "<TY I',,/lid
out·ra.geous (out·ra'jas) adj. complexion.- pal'lid.ly adv., pal'lid.neBs n.
Extremely wrong, insulting, or fantastic:
Syn. wan, faint, cadaverous.
outrageous behavior; all outrageous alibi.
Ant. ruddy.
palm (pam) n., v.
Syn. flagrant, scandalous, reprehensible.
o·vert (o·vurt') adj. n. 1 The inner surface of the hand between
Open to view: an overt movement of the hand.
the wrist and the base of the linger". 2 That
Ant. hidden, secret, covert. which covers the inner surface of the hand,
o.ver.ween·ing (o,vilr,w1!'ning) adj.
as part of a glove or mitten.
Characterized by disdain for others; arrogant:
v. To hide something in or about tile hand:
a dictator's o,erweening exercise of power.
to palm a coin.
Syn. presumptuoUll.
Spelling lip: Remember the silent I, as in
Ant. humble, subtle.
calm and qualm.
o·vip·a.rous (Q·vip'ar·as) adj. pal.pa.ble (pal'pa·bal) adj.
Producing eljgs or ova that mature and are
1 Capable of being touched or felt. 2 Readily
hatched outSIde the body: Bird8 are oviparuus.
perceived: There is a 1,,,/pable iliff"nmce
ox.j.da.tion (ok'sa.da'shan) n. between chocolate alld vanilla. pal'pa.bil'i.ty
n.
The chemical process in which a substance
combines with oxygen: The oxidation of iron
Syn.2 obvious, evident.

.p
produces rust. Ant. 2 concealed, hidden .

::..;.~=.:....;--------------- pal·pi·tate (pal'p,,·Uit) v. pal.pi·lal·ed, pal'pi.

pach.y.derm (pak'a·durm) n.
Any of II. group of animals with thick skins,
including the elephant, rhinoceros, and
hippopotamus.
pac·i·fist (pas'a·fist) n.
One who opposes war as a means of settling
disputes: The pacifist served as an ambulance
driver.-pac'j.!ism n.
pad.dock (pad'ak) n.
A field or enclosure in which horses are
exercised: The colt was being saddled in the
paddock.
pae·an (pe'an) n.
A hymn of praise: used figuratively for any
lavish praise: a paean for the superb perform­
W~
1 To quiver; tremble. 2 'To llutier or beat
more rapidly than normal (said of the
heart): IIis hC(Irt palpitated with feLlr.~pal'­
pi.ta'tion n.
pal·sy (pol'ze) >t., pahlics 1'1.; v. pal·slcd, pal.
sy.ing
n. 1 Paralysis. 2 Any impairment or loss of
ability to control movement.
v. 1 To paralyze. 2 To cause to trembl~ or
becume helpless: She wus palsied with rage.
pal·try (p61 / t.re) adj. pal·tri.cr, pal·lri·el>l
1 Having little or no worth; trivial: One
dollar is a pullry contrioution from a million­
aire. 2 Contemptible; petty: '1'IIe pallry trick
of stealing candy from babies.
Syn. 1 insignificant, trifling. 2 mean.

ance~
Ant. 1 worthy, estimable. 2 admirable.

pag.eant (paj'ant) n.
A spectacular play or exhibition: a pageant of
A merican history.
pag·eant.ry (paj'an·tre) n.
Ceremonial splendor or display: the pageantry
accompanying the queen's· coronation.
pal.at.a·ble (pal'it·d·bal) adj.
1 Agreeable to the taste or palate: Thai dinner
was certainly palatable! 2 Acceptable: a
palatable demand.-pal' at·R·ble·ness n., pal'­
at·lI..bly adv.
Syn. 1 savary, tasteful.
pa·la·tial (pa·la'sha\) adj.
Of, like, or befitting a palace; magnificent: a
palatial residence.
pan·a·ee·a (pall'v·se'a) n.
remedy for all diseases or ills; a cure-all:
people 'use as piri 11 as if it weTe a panacea.
pan·ere·as (pan/kre'<ls or pang'kre.as) n.
A gland 8ituated behind the slomach that
produces a digestive juice and th" hormone
m~ulin.·- pan'ere·al'ic adj.
pan·de·mo·ni·um (pan'da.mii'lle'~Ill) n.
Wild disorder and uproar: The part·y ended in
absolute pand(;moniuTn.
Syn. chaos, riot, bedlam.
pan.e.gyr.ic (pan'~·jir'ik) n.
1 A speech or writing praising a person or
thing. 2 Elaborate praise; laudation.--pan'·

659
 ~
III
~

panic
~"till
parcel
e.gyr'jst n., pan'e·gyr'i.cal adj., pan'e.gyr'­
imaginary circles on the earth's surface,

~,.
l.cal.ly ado.
parallel to the equator, connecting points ~
Syn. 1 eulogy, encomium.
with the same latitude. II
Ant. 2 satire, lampoon.
v. To be, go. or extend parallel to; }Nftlt
A,'cllue parallels Sixth Avenue. ~
pan·ill (pan'ik) 71.; v. pan·icked, pan·ick.ing II
n. A sudden, unreasonable, overpowering
pa.ral·y·sis (pa·ral'a·sis) n., pa.ral.y.ses (pa.
fear, or an instance of such fear.
ral'a·sez) pl. ~
v. To affect with such a fear; The crowd

panicked.

Spelling tip : Warda ending in c usually add a

I The partial or complete loss uf the power

of motion or sensation in any part of the
body. 2 A ceasing or criPIJling of normal
~ "til
k before an ending beginning with e, i. or y:
activities: The pUols' strike brought about a
mimic-mimicking; piCllic-picnicked; shellac

-shellacked; panic-panicky.

pan.().ply (pan'a·ple) n., pan.o.plies pI.

paralysis of transportation by air.
par.a.\yze (par'a·lIz) v. par.a.lyzed, par.a·lyz.
ing
~

~
..
1 'l'he complete equipment of a warrior. 2 By 1 To cripple: The accidenl paralyzed his legs. III
extension, any complete covering; vaguely 2 To render powerless, ineffective, or inactive:
aeen through a panoply of smoke. 3 A magnif­ Fear paralyzed his longue.--par'a.lyz/er/ par/­ ~
icent array: Fall presents a panoply of 1lwg­ a.ly.za/tion n. III
nificent color. par·a·mour (par'a·moor) n. ~
pan·o·ram·a (pan'a·ram/a or pan/a·ra'ma) n. A lover, especially one who unlawfully takes II
• 1 A series of pictures representing a con­
tinuous scene, arranged to unroll and pass
the place of a husband or wife. ~
par.a.noi.a (par'a·noi'a) n. II
before the spectator. 2 A complete view in A psychosis characterized by an elaborate
every direction. 3 A complete or compre­ ~
hensive view of subject or of passing
system of delusions of persecution or
grandeur.-par'a.noi'ac or par'a.noid adj. ..
events: The mo,ie
Civil War.
a good panorama of the
par.a.pet (par'a·pit Or par'a·pet) n. ~
A low wall around the edge of a roof, terrace, II
pan.to·mime (IJan'ta.mlm) n., v. pan·to.
mimed, pan.to.mim.in.ll bridge, etc.: 10 build a IJarapct around a ~
n. 1 Any play in whICh the actors express
themselves by action and gestures only.
balcony so thai no one will fall off.
Syn. rampart, breastwork, rail.
~
•
2 Gestures without speech. par·a.pher.na.\i.a (par'a·far·nll'le·a or par/a.
v. To act or express in pantomime: He
panlomimed his fear.
far·nal'ya) n.p!.
1 Personal effects: an old trunk Jilted wilh ~
Grandmother's trinkets, monogrammed towels,

­
pa.pier-ma.ehe (pll'par.ma·sha / ) n., adj.
n. Paper pulp mixed with oil, resin, etc., that
can be molded into various shapes when wet
and other paraphernalia. 2 A group of articles

used for a special purpose: a fireman's para­ ~ ­

and becomes hard and tough when dry. phernalia.

adj. Made of papier-mache: a parJier-mache

Syn. 1 belongings, possessions. 2 equipment,
gear, apparatus.

<2&.
Roldier. ..
pa·py·rus (pa·pI'res) n., pa'py.ri (pa·pl'rI) p/. par·a·phrase (par'a·fraz) v. par·a·phrased, par.

a.phras·!ng; n.
~
1 A tall water plant found m Israel, Ethiopia, v. To reword an essay, sIJeech, poem, etc., as

etc., and formerly common in Egypt. 2 A for clarity: to paraphrase (l scientific article
~
type of writing ll.aper made from this plant using words that laymen can un<lt:Tsta1HI.
by the ancient Egyptians. 3 A manuscript n. A rewording of something: a paraphrase of

4
written on this material.
Ihe mayor' 8 speech. ~
par·a·dox (par'a·doks) n. Syn. v. restate, rephrase. n. recapitulation.

. 1 A statement that seems absurd or contra­ Ant. v. repeat, recite, quote. n. transcript,

dictory, but is .in fact true. 2 A self-contra­ excerpt.

dictory, false, or absurd statement, as

"Nothing is true." par·a·site ( par'e.slt) n.

1 A IJlant or animal that lives on or in

par.af·fin (par'a·fin) n. another organism from which it lakes food

A translucent, waxy substanc'l obtained and shelter; A tapeworm is a parasile. 2 A

principally from petroleum and widely used person who lives at someone else's expense

for waterproofing, making candles, etc. without giving anything in relurn: The

par·a·gon (par'a·gon) n. couTtiers were parasites, fed and c/othed by the

A model o[ excellence: The lIIcd<11 of Ilonor king but doing 110 work.

winner was a paragon of courage. Syn. 2 sponger, sponge, leech, freeloader.

par.aI·lei (par/''·lel) adj.; n.; v. par.al.leled or Ant. host.

par.al·lelled, par.a.)eJ.ing or par.a.lel.ling par.eel (par'sal) n.; v. par.eeled or par.celled,

adj. 1 Not meeting, however far extended: par,cel.!ng or par.eel.ling

Opposite wans are parallel. 2 H"ving a close n. 1 A package: She carried a gift-wrapped

resemblance or similar course: parallel parcel. 2 A surveyed piece of land: 10 stake oul

lendencies in Iwo brother8. ami buy a parcel.

n. 1 A parallel line or surface. 2 Comparison: v. To divide into shares: They parceled out the

a parallel between two professions. 3 Any of the tasks among all the campers.

660
 par excellence
par ex·cel·lence (par ek'se·lAns)
Beyond comparison; superb: Van Cliburn is
a pianist par excellence.
Syn. supreme, superlative.
pa.ri·ah (pa·rI'.. or par'Il·.. ) n.
1 Iu India, a member of a former low caste
(now officially abolished): The pariahs were
usually servants and laborers. 2 A social out­
cast: The scandal made him a pariah, shunned
and scorned by everyone.
par·i-mu·tu.el (par'i.myoo'chOO,,,I) n.
I A system of racetrack betting in which
those who have bet on the winners share in
the total amount wagered. 2 A machine that
records pari-mutuel bets: 7'he betting was
registered by the pari-mutuel.
Spelling tip : This word may also be spelled
parimutuel.
pa.rish·ion.er (pa·rish 'en.ar) n.
A member of a parish: The clergyman visited
his parishioners.
par·j·ty (par'a,te) n" par.i·ties pI.
Equality, as of value, condition, rank, etc.:
parity between the American and Liberian
dollars.
par·lance (par'luns) n.
Manner of speech; special language: lawyers
conversing in legal parlance,
Syn. terminology, jargon, talk.
par,lay (par.Hi' or par'le) v.
To place winnings from a previous bet on a
later race, contest, etc.: At the casino last night
I won $100 and Ihen parlayed it into $500.
par·ley (par'lii) v., n.
v. To hold II conference, especially with an
enemy: 7'he Americans and North Vietnamese
were parleying in Paris,
n. A conference, as with an enemy: A ceaSe­
fire was arranged al the parlell.
Syn. v. negotiate. n. negotiation, discussion,
meeting.
par.lia·ment (par'la·mant) n,
An assembly or national legislature: Ihe
Brilish Parliament.
Syn. diet, senate, congress.
pa.ro,chi·al (p()·ro'kll·al) adj.
Provincial; narrow-minded: His parochial
prejudices included the belief thai wa.l/en should
not drink, or wear make-ull.-pa.ro'chi.al,ly
adv.
Syn. narrow, limited, insular.
I A tiny pi"cc; (z particle of "(md. 2 A tiny
Ant. broad, cosmopolitan.
amount: not (I particle of truth! 3 One of the
par.o·dy (par'a·de) n" par·o,dies pI.; v. par,o.
died, par.o·dy.ing
n. A humorous imitation of a serious literary par.!ic,u.lar (par·tik'ya·ldr) adj" n.
work or of the style of a serious writer: a
parody of Hemingway.
v. To make a parody of: (I humorou. story Ihlzl
parodied Heming¥Jay's sty!e.-par'o,dist n,
Syn. n" v. caricature, burlesque.
pa.role (pa·rol') n" v. pa.l'oled, pa,ro\.ing
n. A release of a prisoner from jail before the
end of his sentence on condItion that he
report regularly to penal authorities and not
do anything illegal for the duration of the
particular
sentence: lIe was sent back to jail for violating
his parole.
v. 'fo release a prisoner on parole: He IVas
sentenced to five years bllt was paroled ll/ler 1100.
par·ox·ysm ( par'ak.siz'am) n,
A sudden and violent outburst; a paroxysm
of coughing.-par'ox,ys'mal adj., par'ox.ys'­
mal,lyadv.
Syn. spasm, fit, cOllvulsion.
par·quet (par·ka') n .
. I Inlaid mosaic wood fiooring; a parquet
resembling a checkerboard, 2 The main floor
of a theater; Did YOll sit in the parquet or the
balcony?
par,ry (par'e) v. par·ried, par.ry.ing; 11., par.
ries pI.
v. I To ward off a thrust or blow, as in fencing:
to parry a sU'ordthTl!st. 2 By extension, to
dodge or to turn aside, as a question: During
the press conference he parried the reporter's
questionB.
n. A warding-off, defensive movement: That
maneuver was a skillful parry in fhe fencing
match. His answer was a goo(l parry of his
opponent's argument.
Syn. v. 2 evade, sidestep, deflect,
par·si·mo.ni·ous (par'se·mo'ne·as) wlj.
Stingy with money: a parsimonious old miser.
---par'si,mo'ni·ous.ly adv., par'si,mo'ni.ous,
ness n.
Syn. penurious, ti)!ht-fisted.
Ant. generous, I'illianthropic.
par·lake (par'tak') v, par·took, par·tak·en, par.
tak.ing
I To take, have, or receive a share in some­
thing: The family gathered loyrdher 10 1)Mtak.
of the holi(lay meal. 2 To be of the ntlture or
have the quality of something: His sassy
answer par/ook Of 'imperIi nenee.
par·tia) (par'sha!) adj,
I Consisting of only a part; incomplete: Tlte
colony was granted partial independence.
2 Biased; prejudiced: His best friend can'l
judge because he's partial. 3 Hu ving a special
liking for something or someone (used with
to): IIe is partial to apple pie,--,par'ti.a!'i·ty n.,
par'tia!.!y adv.
Syn. 1 fragmentary, limited. 2 partilian,
slanted. 3 fond of.
Ant. 1 total, entire. 2 impartial, objective.
par,tj·c1e (par'ti·k"l) n.
elementary components of the atom, as an
electron, neutron, etc.
adj. I Pertaining to only one perSOIl, thing,
place, etc.; Golf is her parlicular hobby, 2
Special: of particular interest. 3 Fussy about
details: Gourmet. are very particular about
food and wine,
11. A single item, as a detail or as olle example
of a generalization, class of objects, etc.: Toll
me the particulars of your ptan.-I,lar.[ic'u.!ar.
Iyadv.
Spelling tip: Watch the u in this word, and
use a's rather than e's.
661
 ~

parturition pavilion
~ -
III
f!'!!!!!!lIII
par·tu.ri·tion (par'tyw·rish'an or par'chW· adj. Self-evident; apparent to everyone: a
II
. rish'an) n. patent truth.
~
The act or process of giving birth: Parturition Syn. adj. obvious, evident, plain.
II
is the function of the female. Ant. adj. debatable, disputable.

~
j.lar.ve·nu (par'va·n(y)60) n., adj.
n. A person who has risen above his class by
attaining money or position: Napoleon was
not descended from royalty, but was a parvenu
pa·ter.nos·tcr (pa'ter·nos'tar) n.
1 The Lord's Prayer, or a recitation of the
Lord's Prayer: The religious service opened -
with a paternoster. 2 A large bead of a rosary,
indicating that a paternoster is to be said.
~
II
wlw made himself emperor. ~
adj. Being a parvenu or characteristic of such pa·thet·ic (pa·thet'ik) adj. III
a person: the parvenu Bonaparte rulers. Characterized by or arousing sadness, pity,
Syn. adj. upstart. and tenderness: a pathet.ic little orphan. ~
Syn. pitiful. III
pas.se ( pa·sa' or pas'a) adj.
Out-of-date; old-fashioned: Rumble seats are path·find·er (path'fin'dar or path'fin'dar) n. ~
passe. A person who finds a new way in unknown II
Syn. outmoded, antiquated, obsolete.
regions, as one who opens new fields in
Ant. contemporary, fashionable, avant-garde.
philosophy, science, art, etc.: Einstein and ~
other pathfinders in nuclear physics. II
pas.sive (pas'iv) adj.
. 1 Not acting but being acted upon by some­
Syn. pioneer, leader. ~
thing external: a passive spectator who did not
even cheer. 2 Submitting or yielding without
pa·tho\.o.gy (pa·thol'a·je) n.
1 The branch of medical science concerned
• ~
opposition: The passive patient WCl$ too sick to
care what happened.-pas'sive ·Iy adv., pas'­
with the origin, nature, and development of
disease. 2 The abnormal condition caused by •
sive·ness n. a speciflc disease: the pathology of syphilis.­ ~
Syn. 1 inactive, inert. 2 submissive, unresist­
ing, limp.
pa·thol'o·gist n.
pa·thos (pa'thos) n.
• ~
Ant. ! active, moving. 2 aggressive, assertive. The quality, especially in literature, that til
arouses feelings of sorrow, cOlnpassion, etc.;
pas·teur.izc (pas'ta.riz) v. pus·lcur·ized, pus·
leur.iz.ing the pathos of the tale about poor little found­ ~
lings. III
To sterilize a substance (as a liquid) by
heating to a temperature (140°-155° F.) that pa·tience (pa'shans) n. ~
kills bacteria, etc., without major chemical The state, quality, or fact of being long­ III
changes: Milk should be pasteurized.-pas'­ suffering or tolerant: the patience of a wint.
teur·j.za'lion n. Spelling till: Do not confuse patience and ~
Etymology: This process was named after patients (persons undergoing treatment). jO

Louis Pasteur, the nineteenth-century French Syn. resignation, submission. ~

chemist who was the founder of modern
bacteriology.
pas·tiche (pas·tesh' or pas·tesl!') n.
A work of art, music, or literature composed
of fragments from various sources, especially
such a work imitating or satirizing the style
of other artists.
pas·time (pas'tim' or pas'tim') n.
. Something that makes time pass enjoyably,
as a recreation: reading, ping-pong, and other
indoor pastimes.
Syn. amusement, diversion.
pas·tor·al (pas'tar·al or pas'tar·al) adj.
Pertaining to the innocent, charming, idyllic
life of shepherds or rural life: flower-strewn
meadows and other pastoral scenes.
Syn. rural, rustic, bucolic.
Ant. urban, sophisticated.
pa·te de foie gras (pa·ta' da fwa gra') n.
A French term for a paste made from fat
goose livers: Spread some pOote de foie gras on a pau.per (po'par) n.
cracker.
pat·ent (pat'nt) n., v., adj.
n. A government protection to an il1ventor pa·vil.ion (pa·vil'yan) 1l.
giving him for a specific time the exclusive
right of manufacturing and selling his
invention.
v. To obtain a patent on: lIe patented his new
process.
Ant. resistance, impatience.
pat·ois (pat'wa) n., pal·ois (l'at'waz) pl. •
A local dialect, especially one that is rustic ~
or illiterate: the patois spoken by the natives of
the island.
Syn. lingo.
pat·ri·mo.ny (pat'rd·mo'ne) n.
An inheritance from a father or ancestor: His
patrimony consisted of a gold watch and three
old suits.
pa·tron (pa'tran) n.
lOne who supports and fosters an artist or
enterprise: The $lOOO-a-plate dinner 1vas
attended by the museum patrons. 2 A regular
customer: the patrons of the bar.
Syn. 1 protector. 2 client.
pau·ci·ty (po'sa·te) n.
Smallness of number or of quanlity: 'There
was a paucity of seats in the small theater.
Syn. dearth, scarcity.
Ant. abundance.
Any very pour per"OIl, especially one receiv­
ing public charity.
1 A large tent or summerhouse: Henry VIII
received him in a sumptuous pavilion. 2 An
annex or building separated from the main
structure: The hospital had several pavilions
faT special diseases.

662
peaceable
peace·a·ble (p~'sa·bal) adj.
Inclined toward peace: Peaceable men cannot
Hanging, especially so as to swing: the
always avoid fighting.
bloodholtnd's pendulous jowls.
Spelling tip: Peace + able peaceable.
Syn. pendent.
Syn. amicable, pacific.
pec.ca.dil·lo (pek',,·dil'o) n., pec.ca.dH.los or
pec.ca.dil·loes pI.
bacterial infections.
A trilling fault: Apart from Borne youthfUl
Spelling tip: Remember the two I's, and
peccadillos, !tis life had been blameless.
watch the three i's.
pe·cul·iar (pi·kyOol'yar) adj.
I Having a character exclusively its own: The
cat is pec1<liar among domestic animals in being
self-sufficient. 2 Odd; strange: fIe has a
peculiar habit of wiggling his ears.
pe·cu.ni.ar.y (pi·kyoo'ne·er'e) adj.
Consisting of Qr relating to money: The
pecuniary rewards of the job were sma!!
compared to the job satisfaction.
Syn. monetary.
ped.a.gog.i·cal (ped'd·goj'i·kal) adj.
Of or pertaining to the science and art of
teaching.
ped.a.gogue (ped'a·gog) n.
A schoolteacher; educator: The pedagogue
eschewed using a blackboard. ~~ped'a·gog'y n.
ped.ant (ped'ant) n.
One who maj{e. a needless display of learning
or insists on trifling points of scholarship:
Tlte pedant condemned the book because it
conlamed two split infinitives.-~·pe.dan'tic adj.
ped·es·tal (ped'"s·tal) n.
'fhe base Or support of a statue, column, or
vase.
pe·di·a·tri·cian (pe'de·".trish'an) n.
A doctor speCIalizing in the diseases and
hygienic care of children.
peen (pl!n) n. . 1 Excessively sparing in the Use of money;
The end of a hammer head opposIte the
striking face, shaped for removing nails or for
other specialized purposes.
peer (pir) n.
1 An equal, as in natural gifts Or social rank:
He competed among his peers at the Olympics.
2 A noble.
pe.nal (pl!'nal) adj.
Of or pertaining to punishment: The pena!
code includes harsh punishment for kidnaping.
pe·nal·ize (pe'nal-iz) v. pe.na)·ized, pe.nal.iz.ing
To subject to a penalty, as for some violation
of law or contract: The referee penalized him
for unnecessary roughness.
Syn. punish, fine, handicap.
1 To become awar" of something through the
Ant. reward.
senses; see, hear, feel, taste, or smell: Ele
pen· chant (pen'chant) n.
A strong liking or inclination for something
Or someone; He has a penchant for chocolate.
pen·dant (pen'dant) n.
Anything hanging from something for orna.
ment or use, as a jewel on a chain.
pen. dent (pen'dant) adj.
Hanging down; suspended: The blossoms ~were
pendent from the branches.
Spelling tip: Although pendent may be spelled
pendant, an e is preferred when it is an
adjective and an a when it is a noun.
percussion
pen.du.lous (pen'j06.1as) adj.
pen·j·cil·lin (pen'a·sWill) n.
A powerful antibiotic for the treatment of
pen.i·tence (pen'a·tanti) n.
A feeling of sorrow for having done some­
thing wrong; repentance.
Syn. remorse, contrition.
pen.i·tent (pen'a·tant) adj., n.
adj. Affected by a sense of guilt and resulved
to do better: He 'waS penitent about "is fit of
bad temper.
n. Someone who is penitent.
Syn. atij. sorry, regretful, contrite.
Ant. adj. impenitent.
pen.i·ten·tia.ry (pen'a·ten'shdr·e) iI.
A prison. eSjwcially a state or federal pri,on
for those convicted of serious offenses: Sing
Sing is a state penitentiary.
Spelling tip: Watch the i in the !inal syllable.
pen·nant (Jlen',JIlt) n. .
A long, narrow flag, usually trHll,!,;ular, used
as a signul on ua val vessels, as a SdlOOl
emblem, etc.
pen.ni·less (pen'i·lb) adj.
Poverty-sLncken: The fire left hi", penniless.
Spelling tip: Y becomes i as in silliness.
Syn. poor, indigent, destitute.
Ant. rich, wealthy.
pe·nu·ri·ous ( pa·n06r'e·<j,) adj,
stingy: fl" WaS 80 penariol," Ii,at Ii<' save,l ol,l
SOcks. 2 Very needy or scanty: The .hare­
cropper's penurious fumis/'ill;Js illclud~d a bare
mattress and a box for a tuble.--pe.nu'ri.ous.
ness n.
Syn. I mean, parsimonious.
pen·u·ry (pen'Y'H~) n.
Extreme poverty and want: The family was in
a slale of 'wretched penury.
Syn. indigence, destitutiou.
Ant. wealth, riches.
per·cale (par·kal') n.
A closely woven cotton fabric.
per·ceive (pi.Jr·sev'j v. per·ceived, per.ceiv.illg
perceived mUi'ements in the next ruo~m. 2 '1'0
cOllie to understand: Fle perceit'cd Ihe meaning
of the cryptic <lnesMgc.-per·ceiv'a.hle ("Ij.
Spelling tip: I before e except after c.
Syn. I sense, apprehend. 2 comprehend.
per·eus·sioll (p,)r·kush'an) 11.
1 'l'he sharp striking of one object against
another to cause a shock or sound, as a drum­
stick against a drum or a firing pin against a
cartridge. 2 The group of musical instru­
ments in an orchestra whose suund is
produced by percussion: The percussion
drowned viti the strings and "'ind 'lis/rumenld.
663

per diem
per di·em (par de'am)
A'Latin phrase meaning by the day: The
~
consultant WaS paid ten dollars per diem.
per.di·tion (par·dish'an) n.
Eternal damnation: Hamlet wuuld not kill his
ullcle unless. he could be sure of the latter's
perdition.
Ant. salvation.
per·emp·to.ry (pe·remp'tar·e) adj.
1 Not open to debate or appeal; deci'ive;
absolute: The court made a peremptory judg­
menl. 2 Intolerant of opposition; dictatorial:
He ordered her out of the house i)~ a peremp­
tory way.-per·emp'to.rI.ly ade., per.emp'lo.
ri·ncss n.
per.en.ni.al (pa·ren'e·aJ) adj., n.
. adj. Continuing or enduring through the year
or through many years: her perennial quarrels
with her daughter-in-law.
n. A plant with a life span of more thun two
years: Roses are perennials.
per.fid·i.ous (par·fid'e·as) adj.
Guilty of breach of faith; treacherous: a
perl!dious attack on an ally.-per'fi.dy n., per. son's regular work in addition to sulary or
tid i·ous.ly adj.
Syn. faithless, disloyal.
Ant. loyal, trustworthy.
per.Co.rate (pur'fa·rat) v. per.{o.rat.ed, per.fo.
rat·ing
'1'0 make a hole or rows of holes through;
a perforated appendix.-....per'fo·ra'tion n.
Syn. pierce, puncture.
per.Corce (par·fors') adv.
By or of necessity; necessarily: Since the
bridge was down, he h"d perforce to use another
route.
per·func·to.ry (par·fungk'ta·re) adj.
Done or performed mechanically and merely
for the sake of getting through; cursory: His
playing of the sonata was perfunctory and
uninspired.-per.{unc'to.ri.ly adv.
per·i·gee (per'e·jii) n.
That point in the orbit of a satellite t.hat is
nearest to the earth.
Ant. apogee.
per·it (per'al) tI.
Exposure to the chance of destruction or
injury; danger: those in peril on the sea.
Syn. riBk. hazard.
Ant. safety.
per.i·pa·tet·ic (per'i-pa·tet'ik) adj.
Walking or moving about from place to
place: a peripatetic news report.r.
per.ju.ry (pur'ia·re) n.
The deliberate telling of a lie under oath in
judiciul proceedings: lIe committcel perjl<ry
when he said Owt he had never been at the scene
of the crime.
per·me'able (pur'me·a·ble) adj.
Allowing the passage of fluids or ga~"s:
Limestone is permeable to water.
Syn. penetratable, pervious.
per·me·ate (pur'm!HU) v. per·me·at·(~d, per.
me·al·mg
664
~
II
perspicacious ~
~
To spread through thoroughly: The smell of
onions permeated the room.
Syn. pervade, impregnate.
per.mis.si·ble (par.mis'iJ·hol) adj.
•
That can be permitted: allowable: Throwing ~
stones is not permissible.
per·ni·cious (par.nish'as) adj. ~I
Having the power to destroy or injure; very
injurious: tile pernicious busi,w"" of selling ~
heroin.
Syn. deadly, baneful. harmful. • ~
per.pet.u·al (par·pech'oo·al) adj.
1 Continuing or lasting forever: perpetuul
­
mution. 2 Constant; continual: a colicky baby's
perpetuul crying.
~
41
Syn. 1 eternal, endless.
Ant. 2 spasmodic. ~
III
per·pet.u·ate (par·pech'oo·at) v. per·pet.u.at.
ed, per·pel·u·at.ing ~
'l'o preserve from extincLion or oblivion; to
perpetuate a myth.
~
per· qui. site (pilr'kwa·zit) n. ~
Any profit, payment. etc., earned at a per­
~
wages: Perquisites of a salesman's job may
include a car.
• ~
per·se·cute (pur'sa·kyoot.) v. per·se·cul.ed,
per.se.cut.ing • ~
1 To harass with cruel or oppressive treat­
ment; Jews have been persecuted throughout
history. 2 To annoy or harass persistently:
• ~
per'se.cu'tor n. •
persecu.ted by mosqu·itoes.- per'se.cu'tion,
Spelling tip: Persecute should not be confused ~
with prusewte, which means to press legal ~
charges or conduct a trial aguinst someone.
~
per·se·ver·ance (pur'sa·vir'alls) n.
Persistence in an effort, purpose, or enter­•
prise; Perseverance is needed to attail' your ~
goals.
per·se·vere (pUr'sa·vir') v. per·se·vered, per. ~
se·ver.ing
To persist in any purpose or •
enterprise;
~
conLlllue striving in spite of difficuhies.
per·si.fiage (pur'sa·/iazh) n.
A light, flippant style of cOllversation or ~
writing: The witty persiflage of two teen-agers.
per-sis·tent (par·sis'tant or par.zis'tant) aelj.
1 Persevering or stubborn in a course or
resolve: a persistent law violator. 2 Enduring;
permanent: a persistent pClin.-per.shl'tent.
Iy"dv.
per·so·na non gra·ta (par·so'aa nOll gra'ta 01
par·gO'na non gra'ta) ,
A Latin term meaning a perSUll who is not
welcome or acceptable: The President de­
clared the Suviet attache ]Jer",,)/({ nun urata
because he was accused of spying.
per.son.nel (pur's.)·nel') n.
The p'"rsons employed in a uusinmIH, engaged
in military service, etc.
per.spi.ca.cious (pOr'spa·ka'shas) adj.
Keenly discernlng or understanding: a
perspicacious instruc!or,-·"per'spi.ca'cious·ly
adv., per'spi·ca'cious.ness n.
perspiration physician
Sy~. astute, shrewd, sagacious.
prise, etc.: She became petrified when she sa'w
4nt. undiscerning, shortsighted.
the intruder.
per.spi·ra.tion (pilr'spa·ra'shan) n.
Sweating or sweat: Perspiration dripped from
the athlete's brow.
per.suade (par·swad') v. per·suad·ed. per·
suad·jng
1 To induce someone to do something: I
perBuaded him to buy it. 2 To induce to a
belief; convince.-pcr.suad'er n.
ver.sua.sive (par·swil.'siv) adj.
Having power or ability to induce someone
to do Bomethin$: The candidate's persuasive
speech earned htm many votes.-per.sua'sive.
ness n.
Syn. moving, convincing.
pert (pfirt) adj.
Disrespectfully forward; impertinent; saucy:
a pert reply.-pert'ly ado., pert'ness n.
Syn. impudent, flippant.
Ant. modest, bashful, demure.
per.tain (par. tan') v.
1 'fo have reference; relate: That report
pertains to the recent study. 2 To belong as an
adjunct, function, quality, etc.: the loyalty
pertaining to dogs. 3 To be fitting or appro­
priate: corree! behavior pertaining to a gzrl.
per·ti.nent (pfir'ta.nant) adj.
Related to the matter at hand; to the point:
a pertinent question.-per'ti.nence, per'ti.
nen·cy n.
Syn. relevant, connected.
Ant. alien, incongruous.
per.fur b (par·tilrb') v.
To disquiet or disturb greatly: lIe was
perturbed because she kept him wailing.-per.
turb'a.ble adj., per-tur.ba'tion n.
Syn. agitate, excite, distress.
Ant. calm, soothe.
pe·ruse (pa·r60z') v. pe.rused, pc·rus·lng
To read carefulll: to peruse a newspaper.­
pe.rus'er. pe·rus al n.
per· vade (par·vad') v. per.vad.ed, per·vad.ing
To spread through every part of something:
A pleasant odor pervaded the room.
Syn. permeate, penetrate, impregnate.
per·vert·ed (par·vilr'tid) adj.
Deviating widely from what is right or
acceptable; distorted; twisted: a perverted
Bense of humor.
pes.si.mism (pes'a·miz'am) n.
1 A dispo~ition to take a gloomy view of
affairs. 2 The doctrine that the world and life
are essentially evil.-pes'si.misl n.
Ant. optimism.
pes.tle (pes'al) n.; v. pes.tled, pes.i!jng
n. An implement used for crushing, pulveriz­
ing, or mixing substances in a mort~r.
v. '1'0 pound, grind, or mix with a pestle.
pe.tite (pa·tllt') adj.
Diminutive; little (said of women anq giris).
pet·ri.fy (pet'ra'fi) v. pet.rI·ffed, pet.ri-{y.jnjf
1 '1'0 turn into stone Of like stone: a petrified
tree. 2 To daze OT paralyze with fear, SUT'
pet.u.lant (pech'oo.lant) adj.
Expressing annoyance over trilles; peevish;
bad-tempered: The old woman became petulant
if ahe did not get her way aU the time.-pet'u.
lant·ly adv.
phan·tom (fun'tam) n., adj.
n. 1 Something that exists only in the mind
but appears to be real: the p/wnlums of de­
lirium. 2 An apparition; ghost.
adj. Illusive, ghostlike: a phantom ship.
phar.ma.ceu·ti.cal (far'ma.soo'ti.kal) adj.
Of or having to do with drugs: pharrnaceu­
tical supplies.
phase (faz) n. .
lOne of the appearances or forms presented
periodically- by the moon and planets. 2 Any
of the distlllctive stages of a development: A
phase of history was closed by the downfall of
Rome. 3 An aspect or part of something: a
phase of mathematics.
phe.nom.e·non (fi·nom',,·non) n., phe·nom.e.
na or phe·nom.e.nons pI.
1 Something visible or directly observable,
as an appearance, action, change, etc.:
Alolion is a mechanical phenomenon. 2 An
inexplicable or rare fact or event. 3 A person
having some remarkable talents, power, or
ability; prodigy: Houdin'; was a phenomenon
at extricating himself from chains.-phe.nom'.
e.nal adj.
phi·lan·der·er (fi·lan'dar·ar) n.
A fiirt or suitor.-Also phi·lan.der n.
phi·lol.o.gy (fi·lol'a.je) n.
1 The scientific study of language, especially
the history of and relationships among
languages. 2 The scientific study of literary
works and other written records in order to
establish accurate texts and determine their
meaning.
phlegm (f1em) 'II.
Mucus secreted in n persoll's air passages,
especially when produced as a discharge
through the mouth: to cough up phlegm.
phleg.mat'ic (fleg·mat'ik) adj.
Not easily moved or excited; sluggish: a
phlegmatic man who rarely displays emotion.
-phleg.mat'i·cal.!y adv.
Syn. apathetic, lethargic, indifferent.
Ant. emotional, excitable.
pho·bi.a (fO'M·,,) n.
An exaggerated and compUlsive dread of Ii
certain object, situation, etc.: fear of high
places and olher phobias.
phra.se.ol.o.gy ([ra'ze·ol'a·je) n., phra·se·ol.
o.gies pl.
The .choice of words and phras,~s in express­
ing Ideas: The author's complicaled phruseol­
Dgy made his book difficult to understand.
Syn. wording, phrasing.
phy·si.cian (fi·zish'an) n.
1 A doctor. 2 A doctor who practices medi­
cine, not surgery; Is he a physici"n or a
Burgeon?
665
 ~
.
physicist plaintive
~
..
phys·i.rist (fiz'a·sist) n. President he knew he Iwd rcached the pinnacle
~
~
A person who specializes in physics (the oj hiB political career.
science dealing wIth matter, energy, motion, Syn. I turret, spire. 2 peak, apex, summit.
and their interrelations).
phys·i·og.no·my (fiz'1l·og'na·m~) n., phys.!.og.
no.miea pl.
pi·ous (pitas) adj.
Religious: a piotts Christian.- pi.ous.ly adv., ~
pi'ous.nes~ n.
A person's face considered as revealing his Syn. devaUl, reverential.
f!Ii!!!h
character or disposition: a weak-looking
physiognomy.
phy·sique (fi·zek') n.
Ant. atheistic, irreligious.

pique (pek) n.; v. piqued, pi.quing ~

..
""
n. A feeling of irritation or resentment: She
The structure, shape, or appearance of a
person's body: a muscular physique.
Syn. body, figure, build.
could sense his pique when she turned down the
date.
v. 1 To arouse a feeling of irritation or resent­

~
.. .
pi.az.za (pe·az'a; italian pylU'tsli) n.
I An open space or square in a town, espe­
cially in Italy: The pwzza was covered with
ment in someone: The bad reviews oj his play

piqued him. 2 To arouse or stimulate: IIer

air oj "Iystery I'i'/UfOd his curiosity.

~
~
..
pigeons . .2 A veranda or porch: 'I'he Jamily
was silting on the piazza.
Syn. n. annoyance, chagrin, p. 1 provoke,

gall, roil.

Ant. n. pleasure, happiness. v. 1 please.

~
•
pic·a·yune (pik'i·yoon') n.
1 Of little value or importance; practically pith.y (pith'e) adj. pith·j·er, pith.i.esl •
worthless. 2 Petty: It's picayune to criticize
a
the color 0/ man's socks.
Terse, meaty, and forceful: a pithy one-page
surmnary oj the complex issue.·-pith'i.ly adv.•
pith'i.ness n.
~
.
Syn. 1 trivial, trifling, insignificant. 2 small.
Ant. 1 important, essential, momentous. Syn. pointed, succinct. ~
2 magnanimous, high-minded. Ant. wordy, rambling. III
pie·bald (pi'Mld' ) adj., n. plac.ard (plak'ard) 11. ~
adj. Having spots, especially of white and A printed or written poster or proclamation III
black: a piebald hide.
n. A spotted or mottled animal, especially a
that is displayed in a public place.
Syn. handbill, broadside. ~ ,
horse: Is the horse a piebald?
piece d e re·sis·lance (pyes da ra:'ze'5tiin5) n.,
pieces de resistance pl.
pla·cate (pla'kat, piak'at, or plak'<lt) v. pia·
cat-ed, pla.cat.ing
To calm or appease the anger of: The
~ ,
A French phrase meaning the principal or
shopkeeper placated the irate customer by ~
promising 10 replace Ihe imperJect -merchandise. - ~
most important piece, as the most important ~pla.ca'ter, pla.ea'lion 11.

work in a collectIOn of an, poems, etc., or the

main diHh of a dinner: 1'/w piece de resistance
Syn. pacify, soothe, mollify.
~
Ant. aggravate, antagonize.
II!
was the chocolale SOUffle.
Syn. showpiece. plac·id (plastid) adj.
,:a'!....
pied-ii-terre (pya·dit·t1l.r') n., pieds-a-terre pI.
A French word meaning a temporary or extra
Calm and undisturbed: a placid lake.

Syn. peaceful, tranquil.

Ant. churning, roiled, turbulent.

~
•
dwelling: II e live(/ in the counlr JI but main­
lained a pied-d-terre in the city. pla.gia.rize (pla'ja·ri>;) v. pla·gia.rized, pill'
gia.riz·ing ~
•
pil·!age (pil'ij) n.; v. pH.!aged, pil.lag.jng
n. Lootmg, especially by soldiers in wartime:
Attilu's [[un8 IJructiced pillaye and rape.
'1'0 pass off as one's own passages or ideas
from someone else's writings: Most oj the ~
•
8tudent's term paper was plauiarize<! Iront tI
v. To loot: Tile aoldiers pillaged the conquered
maguzine artide.-pla'gia.rilnn', pla'gu,.rist',
IIWage.-pil'lag.er n.
pla'gia·riz'er n. ~
Syn. ~l. plunderage, ravage. v. plunder,

despoiL

Syn. pirate, lift, crib.

plain (plan) adj., n. . ~
•
pince-nez (pans'nl1 ' or pins'na ' ) n., pince-nez adj. 1 Clear; understandable: plain English.
pl. 2 Straightforward; guileless: a plain question. •
Eyeglasses held upon the nose by a spring. S Lowly in condition or station; unlearned: ~
pincers ( pin'sarz) n.pl. plain people. 4 Not rich; simple: plain food. I
1 An instrument with two handles and a pair n. An expanse of level, treeless land; a
~
of jaws working on a pivot, used to grasp prairie.- plain'ly adv., plain'ness 1!.

Spelling tip: Do not confuse plain and planc.

I
objects: The watchmaker picked up the tiny
spring with a special pillcers. 2 The claw of plain·tiff (plan'tlfJ II.
~
a crab, lobster, etc. The complaining party in a lawsuit.
•
Spefiing tip: This word is also spelled Ant, defendant.
~
p~ncher8,
plain·tive (pllln'tiv) adj. I
pin,na.cle (pin'a.kal) n.
1 A tower rising above or from a roof: The
. Expressing sadness; mournful: a plaintit'e
1)!elody.~plain'tive.ly adv., plain'tive.ness n.
~
elaborate castle has many pinnacles. 2 The
highest point or place: When he was elecled
Syn. sorrowful, doleful, melancholy.
Ant. joyous, glad, cheerful. ~
I
C!!!!!II
666
plai~ politics
plait (plat or plat) v., n. find the exact perpendicular, to sound the

11. 1 To braid: She plaited her hair. 2 '1'0 pleat. depth of water, etc.

fl. 1 A braid, especially of hair. 2 A pleat. adj. 'I'ruly vertical: a plumb pillar.

plane (plan) 'II., adj. adv. 1 Vertically: It fell plumb. 2 Informal

n. 1 Any flat surface. 2 A stage of develop­ Completely; entirely (also apcHed p!!<1Il):

ment: a plane of thought. 3 An airplane. plumb crazy.

adj. 1 Level; flat: a plane figure. 2 Dealing v. 1 '1'0 test the perpendicularity, ueplh, etc.,
only with flat surfaces: plane geometry. with a plumb. 2 To get to the bottom of
something: to plumb the depths of d.espair.
plaque (plak) n. Spelling tip: Remember the silent b.
1 A plate, disk, or slab. of metal, porcelain, or
other material 'artistically ornamented and plu·ral·i·ty (ploo·ral'a·te) n., plll.ral,j.iies pi.
used as a wall decoration, etc. 2 A small disk 1 The number of votes that the winner of an
or brooch worn a$ a badge of membership. election obtains over his nearest opponent.
2 The greater portion or number of anything.
plat·i.tude (plat'a.t(y)ood) n.
S The state or condition of being plural or
A fiat, dull, or commonplace statement; a
numerous: a plurality of viewpoint.s.
truism, such as "Hard work is the key to

success,H
pneu·illat·ic (n(y)oo·mat'ik) adj.
1 Operated by compressed air: a pneumatic
pla.ton.ic (pla·ton'ik) adj.
pump. 2 Containing air, especially com­
Purely spiritual; lacking sensual feeling: a
pressed air: a pneumatic tire. 3 Having to do
platonic friendship.
with air or gases; 1)1!eUlIwtic pressure.
plau.si·ble (plO'za·ba\) adj.
pneu.mo.nia (ll(y)Oo·mon'Yd) n.

1 Seeming to be reasonable or probable, but

A disease of bacterial or vinll origin causing

open to doubt: a plaus-ible argument. 2 Appar­

inflammation of the lungs.

ently trustworthy or believable: a plausible

po.di.um (pO'de·em) n .• po·di.a pI.
sale8man.
A small platform for the conductor of an
play.wright (pla'rit') n.
orchestra, a speaker, etc.
A writer of plays. .
po·grom (po'gram or po,grom') n.
Spelling tip: A playwright is a writer.
An organized and often officially instigated
pla.za (plaz'a or plli'za) n.
local ma~Hacre, especially one directed against
An open square or marketplace in a town
Jews.
or city.
poign.ani (pOill'y~llt'ar poi'nant) adj.
pleas.ant (plez'ant) adj.
. 1 Giving pleasure: a pleasant trip. 2 Agreeable
in mannur, appearance, etc.: a pt()wJan! smile.
-pleas'ant.ly adv., pleas'ant.neBB n.
ple.be·jan (pli·b~'an) adj., 11.
adj. 1 Of or pertaining to the common
people, especially those of ancient Rome.
2 Common or vulgar: a person wilh plebeian
tastes.
n. lOne of the common people, especially of
ancient Rome, 2 Anyone who is coarse or
vulgar.
pleb·i·scite (pleb'a·slt or pleVa·sit) n.
An expression of the popular will concerning
some lmportant question, given by a direct
vote of the whole people.
Spelling lip: Watch the scin this word.
plen·i·po·ten·ti·ar·y (plen'i·pa·ten'sh~·er'e or
plen'i·pa·ten'sha·re) n., plen.j.po.ten·ti.ar.ies
pI.
A person with full powers to repr.esent a
government, as an ambassador, mlnlster, or
envoy.
pleth~o·ra (pleth'ar·a) n.
A superabundance; excess: a plethora of words.
pleu.ri·sy (ploor'a.se) n.
Inflammation of the thin membrane that
envelops the lungs and lines the chest cavity.
plov·er (pluv'ar or pIO'var) n.
Any of various shore birds having long,.
pointed wings anq a short tail.
plumb (plum) 'II., adj., adv., v.
1'1. 4. lead weight on the end of a. line used to
1 Painful: poignant gaef. 2 Piercing, sharp,
and cutting: poignant SarcaSm. 3 P~.netrating
and apt: poionu1d ob"ervutions'~'··poign'an."y
n., poign'ant.ly w/v.
poi·son (pOi'Zilll) n., v.
n. 1 A substance that harms or destroys the
tissues of a living organism that absorbs it.
2 AnyLhing that Lends to harm, destroy, or
corrupt.
v. 1 To administer poison to someone or
something: to poison a rat. 2 To affect wrong­
fully; corrupt; pervert: The brainwashing
poisoned Ids mind.-poi'son.er n.
pol.i·o·my.e·IHis (jlol'i:Hi.mj'~·Il'tis or pO'le·a.
ml'a·li'tis) n.
A virus disease characterized by inflamma­
tion of the gray matter of the spinal cord,
followed by paralysis and atrophy of various
muscle groups.
Syn. infantile paralysis, polio.
pol·i·ti·cian (pol'a·tish'an) n.
lOne. who is aClivel:t engaged in politics,
especially as a profeSSIOnal. 2 A person who
engages in government for personal or
partisan aims rather than for reasons of
principle; a political opportunist.
pol·i·tics ( pol'a·tiks) n.pl.
1 The science or art of government. 2 The
alTairs or activities of those controlling or
seeking to control a government: He has made
politics his career.
Usalle: This plural noun is usually construed
as smgular and therefore takes a singular
verb: Politics is " lough /lame.

667
 .......
~
...... 4)'

polity poultice
~
..•
pol.i·ty (pol'a·te) 11., pol.i.ties pl. port.\y (port'le or port'le) adj. port.li.er, port·
~
1 The form or method of government of a Ii·est
1 Somewhat corpulent: stout: Older men are ,.
fJ!!!I!!!!.

..
nation, state, church, etc. 2 Any community
living under some definite form of govern­ oJten portly. 2 Stately in manner; impressive:
ment. The portly butler unbent enough II) smile at 'me. ~
pol·troon (pol·troon') 11. Syn. 1 plump. 2 dignified.
A thorough coward: craven: dastard. port.man·leau (port·man'to ur pOrt·man'to) ~
po·)yg·a·mist (pa·lig'a·mist) n.

A person having more than one wife or

n.
A large suitcase hinged to form two compart­ ~
"
ments..
husband at the same time.

pol·y·glot (pol'i·glot) adj., n.

adj. Expressed in several tongues or
por·trait (por'trit, por'trit, par'trat, or por'­
trat) n. ~ "
speaking several languages: a polyglot
diclionary.
A likeness of a person created by an artist.
por·trllY (pOr.tra' or [lor.tn") v. ~"
n. A person who speaks or writes several
languages.
To represent by drawing, painting, words,
acting, etc. ~"
pom.mel (pum'al or pom'al) n.

1 A knob. as on the hilt of a sword, bayonet,

etc. 2 A knob at the front and on the top of a

pos·sess (pa·zes') v.
1 To own: He possessed two cars. 2 '1'0 enter
and take control over: The 'wild idea possessed ~
"
~"
saddle.
him.~pos.ses'sion n.
pon.tiff (pon'tit) n.
pos·ter·i·ty (pos·ter'a·Hi) 11 •.

1 The Pope. 2 Any bishop.~pon·tif'ic adj.

1 Future generations taken collectively:

pon·tir·i·cal (pon·tif'i·kal) adj.

'l'oday's medical research wi!! benefit posterity. ~
Of, pertaining to, or suitable for a Pope or
2 All of a particular person's descendants. ...
bishop. post-mor·tem (post·mol"tam) adj., tl.
adj. Happening after death: a post-lIwrtem ~
pope (pop) n. examination. III
(Often capital P) The bishop of Rome and
the head of the Roman Catholic Church. n. An examination of a body aiL(,r death. ~
poree·lain (pOrs'lin, pOrs'Jin, pOr'sa·lin, or pos·tu.lant (pos'cha·lant) II.
An applicant for admission into a religious ~ "
pOr'sa.lin) II.
A white, hard, translucent ceramic ware,
usually glazed; china.
order.
pos·tu·late (pos'cha·}at) v. pos·tu.lat·ed, POgo
.­
tu·Iat.ing ~
pore (por or pOr) n.; powd, por.jng To assume the truth or reality of something; II
n. A minute opening, as in the skin or a leaf
serving as an outlet for perspiration or as a
to take for granted: Early scientists poslulated ~
that the earth was the center oj the universe. ~
means of absorption. Syn. presume, posit.
p. To study or read with care.
po·ta·ble (po'ta·bal) adj.
~
port.a·hle (pDr'ta.bal or por'ia·bal) adj. Suilable for drinking: The waler 'is evil-Iaoany III
That can be readiiy carried or moved: a but potable. e~
portable Iypewriler. Syn. drinkable. II
port·age (pOr'tii or por'tii) n. po·ten·tate (pOt'n·tat) n.
1 The act of transporting boats and good~ ~
A possessor of power or authorilY: lIollywood II
from one navil;able water to another. 2 The polentates blackballed Ihe ac/oT.
route over which and the place where ~uch Syn. sovereign, monarch, mogul. ~
transportation is made. 3 The charge for !II
transportation. po.ten·tial (pa.ten'ch<J1) adj., n.
por·tend (pOr·tend' or por·tend') v.
To warn of as an omen; forobode: Dark
adj. Possible but not actual: a potential source
oj aluminum.
n. A possible source of developIllent: College
~ ,
clouds portend rain. graduates have much potclltial. ~
Syn. augur, presage.
por.tent (p6r'tent or por'tent) n.
po·tion (po'shan) n.
A draft of liquid containing medicine or a ~
•
An indication or sign of whal is to happen;
omen: llis word. turned out to be a purlent oj
the coming events.
tlruJ!; T/w wizard uave hi"~ (t uwyicaljwlicHL
Spelling lip: Do nol eOll[use putioll and
portion. ~
•
por·ten.tous (pur·ton'tds or pOr·ten't"s) (ulj.
1 Ominous: a portenlous calm beJore 11 telll[>"st.
POt·POllf.rj (pol·p()ur'e or pO·pGil·re') n.
1 A mixtmc of <idl"} flOWN pelalK 1,,,p( in II ~
•
2 Cau:..dIlI; llHttJnitsluncnl; extraordinary: The jar ;uut u;;ed lo pnrlullw a rOOtH. 2: A iumlley I
enemy offered a portenlous resislance.--por.
fen/tous.Iy adv.
of different tunes, literary pieces, etc.: a
potpourri oj Viemwse waltzes.
~
por·tion (parshan or pOr'shan) n. poul·tice (pol'tis) 11.
A part of a larger whole, as the amount of A moist, suft mass uf flour, clay. mustard.
food given to one person: Her portion oj the etc., applied to a sore parl of the body.
eslale amounted to ¥50,OOO. Syn. plaster, fomentatlon.

668
pour predict

pour (par) v. pre.ci.os·j·ty (presh'e·os'a.te) n.

To flow or cause to flow in a continuous
stream: The crowd poured out of the stadium.
Spelling tip: Do not confuse the verbs pour
and pore (to study carefully).
prac·tj·cal·ly (prak'tik·le) adv.
I I n a realistic manner: lie approached the
problem practically. 2 To aU mtents and
purposes: He was practically a pauper before
he married an heires8.
prac.tice (prak/tis) v. prac·ticed, prac.tic·ing;
n.
v. I To use habitually: He practiced economy.
2 'l'o apply in action: Practice what you
preach. 3 To perCorm rC!leatedly in order to
obtain greater skill: II e practiced at the piano
six hours a day.
n. Established custom or usage: He made a
practice of jOggillg two miles a day.
prag·mat·ic (prag·mat'ik) adj.
Practicnl; matter-oC-fact: the prug,lIatic
solution to u problem.
prai·rie (prar'!!) n.
A tract of grassland; especially the broad,
grassy !llain of central North America.
prat·tle (prat'l) v. peat·i1ed, prat.t!ing; n.
Extreme rell nements or affectation oC style,
speech, or taste: Wait"r Pater's preciosity
makes him unreadable to many.
Syn. fastidiousness, purism.
pre.cious (presh'as) "di.
I Valuable: precious metals. 2 Beloved;
cherished: precious memories.-pre'cious.ly
adv.
pre·cip·j·lale (pri·sip',,·tat) v. pre·dp.i·iat·ed,
pre.cip·j·tat.ing
v. To hasten the occurrence of something; The
verual exchange precipitated a figtfight.
pre.cip·j·tous (pri·sip/a·t",) adj.
Steep; sheer: a precipitous moulltatli pmk.
pre.cis (pra'se) n., pre.cis (pra/sez) 1'1.
A concise summary, as of a book, article.
document, or proceedings: Beca.use he was too
busy to read the whole report, he read a precis
of it.
Syn. abstract, digest.
pre· elude (pri·klood') v. pre·dud·ed. pre.e1ud.
ing
To render impossible by necessary conse­
quence or implication: Our European trip
preclud... " viSlt to
Syn. prevent, obviate.

Ca""",,
tltis If""r.
v. To talk foolishly or like a child: The baby Ant. allow.

prattled happily to himself.

pre·co·dous (pri·ko'shds) adj.
n. Foolish talk: the prattle of telephoning teen­

agers.
Unusually developed or advaneed, especially
Syn. v., n. babble, chatter.
for one's age: The precocious fIJl!r-year-ol(1
could accurately multiply ami di,ide.
pre·am.ble (pre'am·bel) n. Syn. advanced.

An introductory statemE\nt or fact: the Pre­ A.nt. backward.

amble to the Constitution.

Syn. introduction, preliminary.
pre·eur·sor (pri·kllr'sar) n.
Ant. postscript, afterthought.
A person who or a thing that precedes and
suggests the course of future events: Isaac
pre.ear.j.ous (prj·kar'e·as) adj. Newton w<m the precursor of modern physicists.
Subject to continued risk or danger: his Syn. forerunner, predecessor.
precarious position on tlte window sm. pred·a·to.ry (pred',,·tor'll) "dl.
Syn. risky, hazardous, uncertain. I Of, related to, or characterized by plunder­
precede (pri<sed') v. pre.ceq.ed, pre.ced·ing
ing: Predatory hordes of IIunsinvwled
To go or be before: Causes precede effects.
Europe. 2 Living by preying upon others:
Syn. antedate.
Falcons are predatory birds.
Ant. follow, succeed.
pred.e.ces·sor (pred'a.ses·ar) n.
pre.ce.dence (pres'a·dans) n. One who has gone before another in point of
The act or right of preceding: priority in time, as the previous holder of an oftiee: He
place, time, or rank: A reque81 by your bos8 inherited the mistakes of his predecessors.
takes precedence over less important work. Syn. ancestor, precursor, forefather.
Ant. successor.
prec·e·dent (pres'a·dant n.; pri.sed'ent adj.)
n., adj. pred.j.cate (pred'i·kat v.; pred/i·kit n.) v. pred.
n. An act or instance capable of being used as i·cat·ed, pred.j·cat.ing; n.
a guide or example ill the future. v. I '1'0 aifirm as a quality of something: He
adj. Preceding; former. predicates the truth of his proposition. 2 To
Imply or connote: His buying of swampland
pre·cept ( pre'sept) n. in anticipation of a profit predicates advance
A rule of conduct or action: the precept of illformatwll. 3 To found or base all argument.
doing unto others as you would have them do etc., upon something: lIe predicated his
unto you. opinion Oil eluborate research.
pre· tinct (pre'singkt) 11, ll. The verb in a sentence together with its
l An election district within a town, county. obiect or complement and modifiers.
etc.: the fifth precinct. 2 A subdivision of a pre·diet (pri·dikt') v.
town or city under the supervision of a police To make known beforehand; foreteH: lIe
unit, or the police station for the area: lie was predicted the Qutcome of the race.--pre.dict'a.
arrestea by detective8 from the seventeenth ble adj.
precinct. Syn. prophesy, forecast.

669
 ~
.....

~
~
~
•
~

~
predilection presentiment
~
•
pre.di·lee·tion (prll·da·lek'shan) n. pre.rni·er (prj.mir') adj.
A preference or bias in favor of something: First in rank or position: the premier officer ~
a predilection for shrimps.
Syn. inclination, liking.

in the company.
pre·miere (pri·mir' or pri·mylir') n. ~
•
Ant. antipathy, dislike.
1 The first performance of a play, movie, t
pre·dom.j.nance (pri·dom'a·nans) n. etc.: Critics atte1lded the I!remiere. 2 'l'he lead­
The state or quality of being superior in ing lady in a theatrical company: The ~
i
power, influence, effectiveness, number, or premiere's position was being challenged by her
degree: the predominance of elderly women understudy. ~
over elderly men. Spelling tip: This word is ul~o spelled I
Syn. ascendancy, preponderance, prevalence. premiere.
pre·em.j.nent (pre·em'a·nant) adj. Syn. 1 first night. ~
I
Distinguished above all others. prem.ise (prem'is) n.
Syn. outstanding, conspicuous. A statement accepted as true that serves as ~
pre·empt (pre·empt') v. ground for argument, a conclusion, etc.: 1/ you !
accept his premise you must accept his con­
To acquire or appropriate beforehand: The
clu810ns. ~
fund speculator had preempted most oj the I
mineral rights. Syn. 1 assumption, presupposition.
Syn. acquire, appropriate.
pre·rni.urn (pre/me·am) n. ~
pre·face (pref'is) n.; v. pre·faced, pre·fae·jng
1 Something offered free us an inducement I
n. An introductory piece of writing or prelim­ to buy, rent, or contract for something else. ~
inary remarks, especially an essay to intro­ Free electricity was the premium Jor renting 4
duce a book. the apartment immediately. 2 The amount
v. To introduce with a preface: lie preJaced
payable for insurance: The premium was ~
his remarks lvi/h a tribute to the chairman.
raised after his second accident. 3 High regard: 4
lie put a premium on truth,
Syn. n. introduction, foreword.
~
Ant. n. postscript, appendix.
pre·mo.nl·tion (pre'ma·nish',m or prem'Q' 4
pref·a.to.ry ( pref'a·tor'e) adj. nish'an) n.
Introductory: He explained hi3 aims in a A feeling that something is going to hapren, ~
brief but important prefatory passaoe.­ usually something bad: She had a premomtion 4
Ihut the business would/ail.
pref/a·to/d·al adj.

Syn. introductory.
Syn. presentiment, foreboding.
pre·fer (pri-fur') v. pre.ferred, pre·fer.rlng
1 To value more or to like better: Do you
preJer diamonds or sapphires? 2 To give prior­
ity to someone or something.
Spelling tip: Beware of the doubled r's in
preferred and preferring.
pref·er·a·ble (pref'ar·a·bQI) adj..
Desired or more desirable; worthy of choice:
Death is preJerable to disho?lor.-pref'er.a·bly pre·pos·ter·ous (pri·pos'taf·as) adj.
adv.
preg.nant (preg'mmt) adj.
1 Carrying a growing fetus in the uterus;
being with child or with young. 2 Having
cOruliderable weight or significance; full of
meaning: a pregnant remark. 3 Full or filled:
pregnant with meaning.
prel.ate (prel'it) n.
An ecclesiastic of high rank, as a bishop,
abbot, or patriarch.
prel.ude (prel'yood or pre'lood) n.
1 A musical piece or movement serving as an
introduction to a larger work. or standing on
its own as a comparatively short work:
Chopin's twenty-jour preludes. 2 Anything
foreshadowillg a greater event: '1'he occupa­
tion oj Czechoslovakia was a prelude to World
War n.
Syn. 2 introduction, preface.
pre· scrip. lion (IJri-skrip'shun) n.
Ant. 2 aftermath.
A physician's formula for compounding a
pre·rna.ture (pre'ma·chCilir') adj.
Existing, happening, or developing before
the proper period; untimely: The premature
infant was placed in an incubator.-pre'ma.
ture'ly adv.
~
I
pre· pare (prj.par') v. pre.pared, pre·pur.ing
1 To make ready: lVe must prepare a place Jor ~
our guests. 2 To get ready: lVe must prepare I
Jor a long cam])aign.-prep'a.ra'tion n.
pre.pon.der.ance (pri·pon'dar.arul) n.
~
I
Superiority in weight, power, numbers, influ­
ence, etc.: A preponderance oj women attended _Ii!!!\
the PTA meeting.-pre.pon'der.llnt adj.
Contrary to nature, reason, or common sense:
Three hundred dollars is a preposteroHs price
Jor a hat.-pre.pos'ter.ous.ly adv.
Syn. absurd, ridiculous.
pre.rog.a·tive (pri·rog'a·tiv) n.
A special right or privilege: The type oj
wedding is the bride's prerogative.
Spelling tip: This word is often mistakenly
pronounced pcr·og',,·tiv, which makes it
difficult to spell. Watch the pronunciation.
pre·sci.ence (pre'she·ans or presh'e·ans) n.
Knowledge of events before they happen,
-pre'sci.ent adj.
pre· scribe (pri.skrj!J') v. pTlHcrii>ed, pre.
scrib.ing
1 '1'0 sot down as a rule or <iircclion to be
followed. 2 To direct medically: The doctor
prescribed therapy Jar the patient.
medicine, or the medicine itself.
pre·sen·ti·ment (pri·zen'ta·mant) n.
A feeling that something is about to happen: [
have a strong preHcntiment that our plan will fuil.
Syn. premonition, apprehension, foreboding.

670
presidency
pres.i·den.cy (prez'a·dan·se) n.
The office, function, or term of office of a
president.-pres'i.den'lial adj.
pres.i·dent (prez'a·dent) n.
prin.ci.~le (prin/sa-pal) n.
1 A person who presides over an organized
A baSIC truth or law; the principles of demo­
body, as a business, college, etc.: A college
cracy.
pre8id~nt is responsible for camfus improve­
prj.or·j·ty (prH'Jr'o·H,) n., l'ri·or·i.tics 1Jl.
ments. 2 The chief executive 0 a republic:
The right to be first in order, time, rank, etc.:
the President of lhe United States.
Slum clearance has priority in tlte 11ew budget.
Spelling tip: When referring to the' President
of the United States, this word always should
have a capital P.
pre·surne (pri·zoom') v. pre,sullled, pre·sum·
, Ing
To take for ~ranted: I presume you kno'w what
you are talhng aboul.-pre.sump'tion n.
Syn. suppose, assume.
pre.surnp.iu.ous (pri·zump/choo·as) adj.
Too confident or bold: It was presumptuous
of you to say that I had recommended you for
the job.
pre.tense (pri·tens' or pre'tens) n.
A false or hypocritical act, appearance
eX9use, etc.: He knew the children were coming:
yet he made a great pretense of being surprised
at 8eein g them.
pre·text (prl'l'tekst) n.
A false reason or motive given to conceal the
real one: Use any pretext you can think of but
don't altend the party. ' prob.a.bly (prob'o·ble) adv.
Syn. excuse, pretense.
prey·a·lent (prev'o·lant) adj.
Widespread; common: Illiteracy is prevalent
in underdeveloped countries.-prev'a,lence n.,
prev'a.lent.)y adv.
pre.var·j·caie (prj·var'a·kat) v. pre,var·j·ca!.
ed, pre.var·j·cat·ing
To tell a lie: Telling tlte truth is better titan
prevaricati ng.-pre·var'j.ca 'tion n.
prey (pra) n., v. '
n. 1 Any animal seized by another for food.
2 A person or thing victimized by a harmful
or hostile person or agent: a prey to nerves.
v. 1 To hunt and kill for food: Foxes prey on
poultry. 2 To make someone a victim. 3 To
'exert a wearing or harmfulinftuence: Ilis
los8es preyed on hia mind.
prim (prim) adj.
Stiffll proper and neat: The librarian waa a
amal, prim woman.-prim'ly adv., prim'ness
n.
pri.rna don·na (pre'ma dan'a) n., prl·ma
don·nas pl.
t A leading female singer: Mary Garden was a
famous prima donna. 2 A temperamental
person: If she's going to be a prima donna
we'll avoid her.
prj·ma.ri.ly (pr['mer.a·le or prl·mar/a·le) adv.
In the first place: Norsemen were primarily a
seafaring people.
pri!ll.j.tive (prim'a.tivi adj.
Simple and crude: primitiVe sanitary condi·
tiona in the camp.-prirn'j-tlve·ly adll.
Syn. old-fashioned, J"udimentary.
prin.d·pa) (prin'aa·pal) adj., n.
procession
adj. Most important; Wheat is among the
principal exports of the United Slates.
n. A very important person or thing.
pris.on.er (priz'an.ar) n.
A persall who is confined or restrained: fIe
was capt-ured and r81nained a prisoner for five
yeaT8.
Spelling tip: Watch the 0 ill.this word.
pris·tine (pris/ten) adj.
Extremely pure; untouched: the pristine
beauty of a gnow-covered tree.
pri·va.cy (prj'va·se) n., prj·va.des pI.
Seclusion: The wall was built to ensure
complete privacy.
priv.i.le~e (priv'a·lij) 71.
A speCIal advantage or benefit: I hope to have
tile privilege of hearing you sing.
priv.y (priv'e) adj.; n., priv.ies pl.
adj. Participating in the knoWledge of some­
thing secret (used with to): The queen's
attendant was privy to the conspiracy.
n. An outdoor toilet.
So far as the evidence shows; presumably;
He'll probably call.
pro·bos·cis (pro,bos'is) n., pro·bos·cis.es or
pro.bos.ci.des (pro·bos'a·dllz) pI.
1 A long, flexible snout, as of a tapir or other
animal. 2 'rhe trunk of an elephant. 3 A
feeding structure of certain insects as of
Lees and mos<tuitoes. 4 A humorons t~rm for
a human nose, especially when unusually
large or prominent.
Spelling tip; Watch the silent c in this word.
pro.ce·dure (pm.se'jilr) il.
I A manner of acting or doing something: a
complicated procedure. 2 The methods or
forms of conducting a business, parliamen­
tary affairs, etc.
pro·cceds (pro'seJz) n.p/.
The money obtained from a sale of goods
work, or the use of capital: The proceeds fran:
the auctio1! were given to charity.
Syn. return, yield, income.
proc·ess (pros'e" or pro'ses) 10., v.
n. I A course or method of operations in the
production of something: a metallurgical
process. 2 A series of actions, developments
etc., that bring about a particular result: th~
' process of growth. 3 A writ issued to bring a
defendant into court.
v. 1 To subject to a routine procedure:
Process his application. 2 To treat or prepare
by a special method: to process 7nea/'-proc'­
es·sor n.
pro·ces.sion ( pra·sesh'an or pro·sesh'an) 11.
A group of persons, vehicles, etc., arranged in
succession and moving in a formal way: a
fUlwral procession.
671
 .-.
~
~
.
~
.
~
promenade
~
•
pro·eliv.i.ty (pri)·kliy'a.te) n., pro.cliv.i.ties pI. prof·li·gate \prof'la.git or prof'la·gat) adj.
.­
Natural disposition or tendency; propensity: 1 Lost or Insensible to principle, virtue, or ~
The old codger haa a proclillitll to grumble and
groU86.
decency: orgies of profligate Roman emperors.
2 Recklessly extravagant: Because of her ~
•
Syn. bias, disposition, inclination, bent.
pro.eras.ti.nate (pri)·kras'ta·nat) v. pro.cras·
t!·nat.ed, pro.cras.tI.nat.ing
profiigate use of tlte inheritance, she soon had
nothing !eft.-prof'li.gale.ly adv.
Syn. 1 immoral, dissolute. 2 wasteful. ~
•
To put olf taking action until a future time:
lIe procrastinated so long that he missed the
pro.eu.sion (pra·fy60'zhan or pro·fy60'zhan) n.
A lavish supply or condition: a profusion of ~
•
opportunity.-pro.cras'ti.na'tor n.
Syn. defer, delay, postpone.
buds on the rosebush.
Syn. abundance, copiousness.

.
~
Ant. expedite, hasten, hurry.
pro·eure·ment (pro·kyiWr'mant) n.
Ant. scarcity, pittance.
pro·gen·i·tor (pro·jen'a·tar) n.
.
An obtaining or acquiring: procurement of A forefather or parent. ~
supplies.
prod.i.gal (prod'a·gal) adj., n.
prog·e·uy (proj'a·ne) n., prog.e.nies pI.
Offspring; children: Most parents are proud of ~
•
adi. 1 Wasteful, as of money, time, or
strength; extravagant: The young are
prodigal of life. 2 Lavish; profuse.
their proge Ii y.
prog.no·sis (prog·nllsis) n., prog·no·ses (prog.
no'sez) pl.
~
•
n. A person who is wasteful; a spendthrift.­
prod'i.gal.ly adv.
A prediction or conclusion regardint:: the
course of a disease and the probability of ~
•
pro.dig.ious (pra·dij'as) adj.
Enormous or extraordinary in size, qUantity,
recovery.
prog.nos·ti.cate (prog·nos'ta·kat) v. prog·nos· ~
•
or degree: There is a prodivious number of Ii·cal·ed, prog.nos·ti·cat.illg
books in the library.-pro·dig ious.ly adv.
Syn. huge, vast.
To foretell future events, etc., by present
indica tions: Churchill r.roorwsiicated World ~
•
Ant. small, moderate. War II.-prog.nos't!.ca tion n. I
prod.i. gy (prod'a.je) n., prod·i.gies pI. Syn. predict, forebode, augur.
A person having remarkable qualities or ~
powers, especially a young child so gifted:
pro·gram (pro'gram or pro'gram) n.; v. pro.
gramed or pro.grammed. pro.gram.jng or •
The piani~l Van Cliburn was a child prodigy.
Syn. wonder, marvel.
pro·fane (pra-fan' or prO·fan') v. pro·faned,
pro.gram.ming
n. 1 A performance or show. 2 A printed
announcement or schedule of events: a
~
,
. pro.fan.jng; adj. theater progranl. 3 Any prearranged plan or ~
1>. To treat something sacred with irreverence course: a school program. ~ A sequence of f
or abuse: 7'h8 church was profaned by a murder Instructions for an electronic computer. ~
committed there. v. 1 To arrange or include in a program. 2 To
I
adj. Showing irreverence toward the sacred
thmgs: When he 90t angry he used profane
work out or make up a program for a radio

station, computer, etc. ,!So.

Ianguage.-pro.fan er n., pro.fane'ly adv. prog·ress (prog'res or pro'gres n.; pra.gres' v.) I
Syn. 11. defile, desecrate. adj. blasphemous. n.~ 'O~ ~
pro·fes.sion.al (pr,,·fesh'an·al) adj. n. 1 A moving forward: the progress of the I
I Connected with, enjiaged in, or preparing disease. 2 Gradual advancement toward
for a profession: prOfessional courlesy; pro­ maturity or completion; improvement: the ~
fessional organizahons.. 2 Pertainin~ to an progress of civilization. I
occupation pursued for gain: A projessional v.l To move forward. 2 To advance; improve. ~
baseball player moved in nexl door to us. pro·hl·bi·tion (pr6'a·bish'an) n. I
pro·fes.sor (pra·fes'ar) n. The act of preventing or forbidding; also, a
1 A teacher of the highest rank in a universit,Y decree or order forbidding something.-pro. e!'!!!t
hib'l.tive adj. I
or college. 2 A person who openly declares hiS
opinions, sentiments, or religious faith. pro.jec.tile (pra.jek'tal or pra·jek'tiI) adj., n. ~
pro·li.dent (pra·fish'ant) adj. adj. Projecting or impelling forward. I
Skilled; expert: lIe was so proficient at his job n. A body projected or thrown forth by ~
that he got another promotion.-pro.fi'cient.ly force, as a missile fired from a gUll, cannon,

etc.

adv.
pro.fiIe (prO'fll) n.
1 A side view of something, or a drawin~ of
such a side view. 2 A short biographICal
sketch: a profile of cad. candidate.
prof·it (prof'it) n., v.
n. 1 Any advantage or gain; benefit: FIe used
the illformation 10 his profit. 2 Excess of
returns over expenditures: business profits.
1>, 1 To be of advantage or benefit: The
eX1!erience profited him ureatly. 2 To derive
gam or benefit: Felli people profit by adllice.
~
pro·)e·tar·j·at (pro'la·tar'e·at) 1t.
Wageworker~ collectively; the working class.
-pro'le·tar'i·an adj.
pro·lif·ic (pro·lif'ik) adj.
~
I
Producing abundantly, as olfspring, fruit,
books, etc.: 'i'he prolific writer finished fou.rteen ~
books in one year.-pro.lif'i.cal.ly adv.
Syn. fruitful, fecund, productive.
prom·e·nade (prom'a,nad' or prom'a·nad') 1<.;
v. prom.e·nad·ed, prom.e.nad.ing
n. 1 A walk for amusement or exercise. 2 A

612
prominence
place for such walking, as a deck of a ship,
etc.
v. To walk or stroll in public: to promenade
along the boardwalk.-prom'e.nad'er n.
prom.i.nence (prom'a.nans) n.
1 The state or quality of being well-known.
2 A protuberance: The surface was made up of
many depressions and prominences.
pro.rnis.cu.ous (pra·mis'ky60·as) adj.
1 Indiscriminate, especially in sexual
relations. 2 Composed of individuals or
things confusedly or indiscriminately mixed
together: a promiscuous pile of books.-pro.
mis'eu.ous.ly adv., pro.mis'cu.o'us.ness n.
prom.jse (prom'is) n.; v. prom·ised, prom.is·
especially disease.
ing
pro·pi·tious (pro·pish'~s) adj.
11. 1 A positive assurance that one will or will
not perform a specified act. 2 An indication of
future excellence or satisfaction: a new author
with great promise.
v. 1 To make a positive assurance: MacArthur
promised to return. 2 To give reason for
expecting something: The dark sky promised
rain.-prom'is.er n.
prom.on·to.ry (prom'an·tor'e or prom'an·to'­
re) n., prom.on.to.ries pI.
A high point of land extending into the sea;
headland.
pro.mul.gate (pro·mul'gat or prom'al·gat) v.
pro.mul.gat·ed, pro.mul.gat.ing
To make known or announce oflicially; put
into effect by public proclamation: to
promulgate a new c01Istitulwn.-pro'mul.ga'­
lion n.
8yn. proclaim, publish, declare.
prone (pron) adj.
1 Lying flat with the face downward;
prostrate: After being knocked out he lay prone
on Ihe floor for ten minutes. 2 Inclined or pre­
disposed: She is prone to crying because she is
so sensitive.
Syn. 2 given, subject.
Ant. 1 supine.
prop.a·gan.da (prop'a.gan'da) n.
A systema tic ell'art to persuade peop Ie to
support or adopt a particular opinion
attitude, or course of action; also, the facts:
opinions, ideas, etc., used in such an effort.
prop·a·gate (prop'a·gat) v. prop·a·gat·ed,
prop.Q.gat·ing
1 To cause animals or plants to multiply by
natural reproduction; breed: to propagate
horses. 2 To spread from person to person, as
a doctrine or belief: to propagate news. 3 To
transmit through a medium: to propagate heat.
-prop'a.ga'tor n.
pro.pel.lant (pra·pel'ant) 1'.
An explosive that propels a projectile from a
gun, or a solid or liquid fuel that serves to
propel a rocket, guided missile, etc.
pro.pen.si·ty (pra.pen'sa.te) n., pro.pen·si.ties
pl.
A. natural disposition or tendency: a prop en­
81ty to argue.
"rop.h·e.sy (prof'a·sil v. proph.e.sied, proph.e.
sy·mg
proscribe
To foretell the future; make predictions: The
monk prophesied disaster.-proph'e.si'er n.
proph.et (prof'it) n.
1 A person who delivers divine messages or
interprets the divine will: the prophet Jer­
emiah. 2 A person who foretells the future.
Spelling tip: Note the ph pronounced as f.
pro·phy·lac.tic (pro'fa.lak'tik or prof'G.lak'lik)
adj., n.
adj. Tending to protect against or ward off
something, especially disease: prophylactic
measure.
n. A medicine or appliance that tends to
protect against or ward off something,
1 Favorable; auspicious: it propiliollS time for
requostina a raise is when your bosil is in a
generous mood. 2 Kindly disposed; gracious:
The propitious judge yave the penitent criminal
a reduced sentence.--pro.pi'tious.ly adv.
prop.o.si·tion (prop'Gozish'an) n.
1 A scheme or proposal offered for considera­
tion or acceptance: He decided to accept the
company's proposition to buy his business and
let him continue to manage it. 2 Any matter or
person to be dealt with: a tongh proposition.
3 In mathematics A statement of a truth to be
demonstrated (a theorem) or of all operation
to be performed (a problem).-prop'o.si'tion.
81 adj.
pro· pound (pra·pound') v.
To put forward for consideration, solution,
etc.; suggest or submit: At the meeting he
propounded his own vie11'S for solving the city's
problems.
pro.pri·e·ty (pra·pri'd·te) n., pro·pri.e.ties pI.
The character or quality of being proper;
especially, accordance with recognized usage,
custom, or principles: The ethics committee
questioned the propriety of the senator's action.
pro ra·ta (pro ra'ta, pro rat'". or pro rii'tG)
In propurtlOn: The loss 'Was shared pro rata by
all the partners.
pro.sa.ic (pro.za'ik) adj.
1 Failing to arou,e animation or intere~t;
unimaginative; dull: She was boret! with her
prosaic e:ristence. 2 Pertaining to or like prose.
-pro.sa'i.cal.lyadv.
Syn. 1 commonplace, tedious.
Ant. animated, interesting, lively.
pro.sce.ni.um· pro·se'ne.am) n., pro.see·ni.a
(pro·se'ne.a) pI.
In a theater. the part of the stage in front of
the curtain: The director came onto the prosce­
nium to quiet the audience.
pro· scribe (pro·shib') v. pro·scribed, pro·
serib.ing
To prohibit: The Bill of Rights proscribes
illegal search and entry.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse proscribe and
prescribe; they are opposite in meaning.
Prescribe means to set down as a rule to be
followed: Khaki uniforms are prescribed by
Army regulations, but civilian clothes are often
proscribed.
Ant. prescribe, sanction, authorize, legalize.
673
 ~ ,
~
prosecute
psychic ~
pros·e·cute (pros'a·ky60t) v. pros.e.cut.ed, ~
prove (pr60v) v. proved, proved or prov.en,
' pros.e.cut·ing
:r ~
prov.ing

o prin~ legal, especially criminal, proceed­

mgs agamst someone: He was prosecuted for 1 To demonstrate to be true by evidence or
argument; He proved that he was out of town

the assault.
~
on the day of the murder. 2 To test the quality
pros.e.lyte (pros'a·lit) n.; v. pros.e.lyt.ed,
pros.e.lyt.ing
n. A person who has been brought over to a illness proved fatal. ,
or worth of: lIfarines have proved tiw;llselves in

many bitt~r batt/es. 3 Turn out to be: The ~ -

new party, opinion, or, especially, religious
~
proy·i.dent (prov'a·dant) adj.
belief: He gained many proselytes by his Showing foresight, especially with respect to
preaching. money.

~
v. To proselytize. Syn. thrifty, careful.

pros.e.lyt·ize (pros'a·lit·iz') v. pros.e.lyt.ized, Ant. spendthrift.

pros.e.lyt.jz.ing pro·yin·cial (pra·vin'shal) adj., n. ~
To make a convert of: 'J'he missionaries adj. 1 Of or pertaining to a province: the III
proselytized the heathen. provincial government. 2 Rustic; uncultured:
~
Spelling tip: Remember that proselytizing has

a y.

His manners are rather provincial. ..

n. 1 A native or inhabitant of a province. 2 A
Syn. convert, recruit.
person who is rustic or uncultured. ~
pros·per·ous (pros'par·as) adj. ..
pro. yi.so (pra·vi'zo) n., pro.vi·sos or pro.vi.soes
1 Successful; flourishing: a prosperous busi­ pl. ~
ness. 2 Auspicious; promising.
Syn. 1 thriving. 2 favorable.
A stipulation, as in a contraci or siaiute,

•
Ant. 1 unsuccessful, failing. 2 unlucky,
baneful.
limiting or modifying it, or rendering it
conditional: Her contract contained a proviso
limiting the number of personal appearances

, ~
pro·tag.o.nist (pro·ta~'a.nist) n. she would have
Syn. condition.
to make.
~
A leadin~ character m a play, story, coniest, III
or situatIOn: The a'uthor is the protagonist in
any autobiography.
pro·te.ge (pro'ta·zha) n.
proy.o.ca·lion (prov'a·ka'shan) n.
,
Incitement; irritation: He actellviolentlyunder
extreme provocation.
~

A male under someone's special protection Syn. stimulus. ~

and patronage, especially for the furtherin~ pro·yoc.a.tiye (pra·vok'a.tiv) adj.
of his talent or career: The patron helped hlS
proUges by buying their paintings.

:=,.-
Serving to provoke, excite, or stimUlate: a
provocative discussion about birth contro/.­ - ~
lJsage: A protegee is a female protege.
pro.voc'a.tive.}y adv.
pro· test (pro'test n., pra·test' v.) n., v. prox·im·j·ty (prok·sim'a·te) n. ~
- ~
n. A solemn or formal declaration or objec­ The state or fact of being near or next:
tion: The President is expected to send a strong During rush hour people are jammed in close ~.....
protest to their ambassador. proximity 011 the subways. ~
•• 1 To state formally, especially against
Syn. propinquity, nearness.

expressed doubt: He protested his innocence.

Ant. distance, remoteness. ~
2 To object, especially publicly; He protested
prox·y ,(prok'si;) n., prox·ics pI.
against the government policy.
1 A person empowered by another io act for
• ~
Syn. v. 1 declare, assert.
him: He was a proxy for his absent brother at II
pro.to.col (pro'ta·kol) n.
the baptism. 2 The otfice or right to act for
another, or the insirument conferring it: The
~
, 1 The rules of diplomatic and state etiquette:

It was against protocol for the ambassador to

atand. 2 The preliminary draft of an official Syn. 1 deputy, substitute.
•
proxies have not yet been sent to the stock/wlders.

evs.•
document, especially a treaty: The protocol psalm (sam) n.
had been signed by all parties. A sacred song from the Old Testament Book
of Psalms.
pro·to·type (fro'ta.tip) n.
An origina model on which subsequent
forms are based: The engineers expect to com­
'
pseu.do.nym (s60'da.nim) n. • ~
A fictitious name; pen name: He wrote the

plete the prototype for the new plane this week.

pro· tract (prO·trakt') v.
novel under a pseudonym.

Syn. alias, nom de plume. • ~

To draw out or lengthen in time; prolong; to psy.che (si'ki;) n. I
protract a visit.
Syn. extend, continue.

The human Boul; the mind; the intelligence. ~

psy.chi·a·try (si·ki'a·tre) n.
Ant. shorten, curtail.

pro.trude (pro·tr60d') v. pro·trud·ed, pro.trud.

The branch of medicine that deals with the
diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of
• ~
ing ,
mental disorders.-psy.chi.at.ric (si'ki;.at'­ I
To thrust out; to project outward; fiis/ongue

was protruding.
rik) adj., psy.chi'~.trlst n. ~
psy.chic (Si'kik) adj.
Syn. stick out, obtrude.

Ant. retract, draw back.

~
1 Pertaining to the mind or soul, as opposed
to the body. 2 Related or sensitive to mental
I
~
psychology
phenomena unconnected with the five
senses, such as telepathy or extrasensory
perception: The old lady claimed to be psychic
and able to see into the future.
psy.chol.o.~y (si·kol'a·jii) n., psy.chol.o.gies pi.
1 The sCIence of the human mind. 2 The
aggregate of the emotions, behavior patterns,
etc., considered characteristic of an individual,
type, group, particular experience, etc.: the
psychology of love.-psy ,chol'o.gist 11.
pueb·}o (pweb'IO for defs. 1 aud 2; pwl1'blO for
def. 3) n., pueb.los pl.
1 (Capital P) A member of one of the
Indian tribes of Mexico and the southwest
United States, as the Zuni, Hopi, etc. 2 A
commllnal abode or stolle building of the
Indians of the southwest United States. 3 A
town or village of Indians or Spanish
Americans, as in Mexico.
pu.er.i1e (pyoo'ar.i\ orJ,yoo'ril) adj.
Characteristic of chi! hood; juvenile: the bad
habit of making puerile jokcs,-pu'er·lle.ly
adv., pu'er.il'i.ty n.
Syn. childish, silly, immature.
Ant. adult, mature.
pu·gi·list (pyoo'ja·Jist) n.
One who fights with his fists; a boxer: Joe
Louis was a noled pugilist.-pu'gi.Usm n.
Syn. fighter, prize fighter.
pug.na·cious (pug·na'shua) adj.
Disposed to fight; quarrelsome: a pugnacioHs
boxer.-pug.na'cioulI·lyadv.
Syn. bellicoae, combative.
Ant. peaceful, calm, pacific.
pul.chri·tude (pul'kro·tood) n.
Beauty; grace; physical charm: an outstand­
ing example of feminine pulchritude.--pul'chri.
tud'i·nous adj.
pul.mo.llar.y (pul'ma·ner'e) adj.
Of, pertaining to, or affecting the lungs:
pulmonary congestion.
pul.sate (pul'sat) v. pul.sat.ed, pul.sat·ing
Expand and contract rhythmically, as a
pulse; vibrate: The engine was still pulsating
gently.
Syn. beat, throb, palpitate.
pum·ice (pum'is) n.
Spongy lava used for removing stains from
the hands and. in powdered form, for
polishing.
punc·tU.j.ous (pungktil'e.as) adj.
Attentive to points of etiquette, etc.: She was
punctilious in setting the table for the formal
dinner.-punc.tiI'i.ous.ness n., pune.ti!'I.ous.
ly adv.
Syn. meticulous, scrupUlous.
Ant. careless, offhand.
pun'dit (I->un'dit) n.
A person who is learned or expert in any
matter; also, a person who is inclined to offer
authoritative opinions: Almost all the pundits
were proved wrong in predicting Truman's
defeat.
Sfn. authority, expert.
quack (kwak) n., v.
pun.gent (pun'jant) adj.
n, A harsh, croaking sound made by a duck,
quack
1 Having a sharp, pricking, or acrid taste or
smell: The curry was pungent mlher than hot.
2 Affecting the mind or feelings painfully, as
if by sharI-> points; caustic; biLing: pungont
8arcasm~
pu·ni·tive (pyoo'na·tiv) adj.
Inflicting punishment: punitive damages.
Syn. retributive, corrective.
pU·IlY (pyoo'ne) adj. pu·ni·cr, pu.ni.est
Small and feeble; insignificant: He-me)! are
not w()rried by puny showojfs.
Syll. weak, sickly.
pur·ga.to·ry (ptil"g,,·t6r'e) n.
1 In l/aT1L(lII Catholic theo!oyy A place where
the souls of lhe penitent dead expiate minor
sins before going to heaven. 2 Any place or
time of temporary suffering or expiation: I
went I"rouylt purgatory when my mother-in-law
came (0 lila·y.
pur·loin (ptir·}oill') v,
To steal; filch: '.the III ie! purloined liw mal!!!­
script while its owner was away.
pur. port (pflr'port; also pJr·port' for v.l n., v.
n. The meaning, significance, or intention of
a document, speech. or action: It 'was
difficult to understand tile purport of his words.
v. '1'0 claim or profess. especially falsely: 11
purported to be a letter from the President.
Syn. n. import.
pur·pose (po.r'pas) n.
1 An objective kept in mind during a course
of action: His purpose was to !lain power.
2 Practical advantage or result: There is no
purpose in going to town today.
Syn. 1 aim, object, design.
pur·sue (par·soo') v. pur·sued, pur·su.ing
1 '1'0 follow with intent to capture; chase:
The policeman l,ursuea the thief. 2 'fo follow
persistently: lIe pl{Tsued his senrell for
knowledge.
pur·vey·or (par·vii;'ar) n.
A person who furnishes supplies, especially
food: purveyor to the Royal Iiol<;5e/wld.
pu·sil·lan.j,mous (PyOo's.).lan',,·mus) adj.
Characterized by lack of courage: too
pl!8illani'mou8 to complain.
Syn. timid, cowardly, weak.
pll·tre·fy (pyoo'tra.f!) v. pu·tre.fled, pu.tre.fy.
ing
'1'0 decay with a fetid odor; to rot: The
unrefrilJera/ed meat slowly putrefied.
Syn. decompose, spoil.
pyre (pir) ii.
A heap of combustible material on which a
dead body is burned liS a funeral rite: to
cremate the body on the pyre.
py.ro.mll.lIj'lI (pi'l'd,ma'ne·" or pi'To.man'y.»
n.
A compUlsion to set things on lire.-py'ro.
rna'nl'l1c adj. & n.
'~---------~--~. ­
Q
675
 ~
..--......
f!!!!!Ia.
.
~

~
•
quadrille radius •
~
or a similar sound: the quacks of a man with qui·es·cent (kwj·es'ant) adj. I!!'!!!!!!l.
laryngitis.
v. To utter harsh, croaking sounds: gossiping
In a state of inactivity or rest: The Black

Plague was quiescent for cellturies, but then

•
old women quacking away.
qua·drille (kwil,dril') n.
it stmck again.
8yn. sleeping, dormant, passive.
~
1 A five-figure square dance for four couples.
2 The music for this dance.
Ant. active, turbulent, VIOlent.

qui·ct (kwj'at) adj., v., 11.

atlj. 1 Making little or no noise: a quiet b(by.
~
.
quad.ru.ped (kwod'rOo,ped) adj., n.

2 Peac.!ful: a quiet day at the office. ~

adj. Having four feet: quadruped mammals.
III
v. 1 To make silent: to quiet a howlino b, ,by.
n. A four-footed animal, especially a four­
footed mammal: Bears are quadrupeds.
quaff (kwaf. kwof, or kw6f) v.

2 To become softer or less boisterous (usu Illy

fullowed by ([own): The party ljuict2d aIwn
arouml midlligltt.
~ ,
~
'1'0 drink, especially large amounts and wilh

relish: He quaffed the tar/kard of ale.'-quaff'er

n. A state of silence, calm, peace, C( !,.­

qui'et.iy adc., qui'et.ness n. .
11.
Syn. swig, swill, gulp, drain. qui.e·tude (kwI'a·t(y)ood) n. ~
The quality or state of being calm' lite 41
quag.mire (kwag'mlr' or kwog'mlr') 11. quietude vf lIuns.
1 A swamp or bog: He got his boots muddy Syn. serenity, tranquillity, peace. ~
crossing the quagmire. 2 A difficult situation Ant. tension, frenzy, agitation. 41
from which it is hard to extricate oneself: quirk (kwurk) n. ~
the quagmire of a war that neither side could An odd mannerism, habit, eccentricity etc. 41
win. 8yn. idiosyncrasy, peculiarity. ~
qua.ho\\ (kwO'hOg, kwO'hog, or kwa·hOg') n.
An edible clam. quite (kwlt) adv.
1 To the fullest extent; cumpletely or with­
.
8pelUng tip: This word is also spelledquahaug. out the slightest uncertainty: The rumor is ~
Syn. hard-shell clam, round clam. (Iuite true. 2 To a great or considerable ex­ III
quail (kwal) n., quail or quails pI.; tent: II e is 'luite m. ~
rl. 1 A European game bird resembling the
partridge and having a very short tail. 2 Any
Syn. 1 altogether, entirely. 2 very, exceed­
ingly.
..
of various similar small American game birds, quiz (kwiz) n., quizzes pl.; v. quizzed, quiz.zing ~
especially the bobwhite.
qual.j.fy (kWOl'il·fl) v. qual·i·tied, qual·i·ey·ing
1 To make competent or eligible for an oc­
cupation, office, privilege, etc.: His fluent
n. The act of questioning; " quiz in geometry.
v. '1'0 examine by asking (lUc~Liolls: The
t.ucher qu izz(,d the class.
quiz·zi.cal (kwiz'i.kal) ullj.
~
,­
Russian qualifies him for the translator's job. ~
2 To meet the requirements for or become
eligible for something: lle qualified for the job
by passing the exam.
Puzzled: a quizzical glancc.·-quiz'zi.cal.ly

adv.

Syn. skeptical, curious. ~

•
quo· rum (kwOr'am or kwo'ram) 11. II
qualm (kwam or kwom) n. The number of members of a group who must
A guilty or frightened feeling that makes a
person reluctant or unhappy while doing or
be present to transact business, vute, etc. € "­
(usually a majority): The Sellate cannot vote II
planning some act: qua1mB abD1<l sky-diving. unless a quorum of selLaturs is prcse/!t. ~
quan·ti.ty (kwon'ta·te) n., quan·li·tie:; pI.
Amount, size, or number: a small quantity
quo·Hent (kw5'sh0nt) n.
'l'he number obtained by dividing one quan­
.
of rice. ~
quell (kwel) v.
1 To suppress by force: The tyrant's army
tity by another: When 10 is dividd by 5, the

quotient is 2.

~
•
quelled the revolution. 2 To stop, as pain or
fear: The 1lW(licille quelled his cough. R
rub·id (rab'id) adj.
!TEE!':.
•
ques·tioll (kwes' chan) n., v.
n. 1 An inquiry, or the act of inquiring: "Is
it raining?" is a questiun. 2 Uncertainty or
1 Affected with rabies; mad. 2 .\>'anatical;
furious; viulent: He lVas rabid in dcfmlSe of ~
•
disagreement: No question about that! 3 A his principles. I
subject being investigated. discussed, or ..rac·on·Leur (rak'oll·tUr') 'II. ~
argued about. A skilled teller of anecdotes: As a racontear,

v. To ask a question: Reporters questioned

~
Oscar lVi/de was unexcelled.

Mill. ra·di·ate (ra'de.iU) v. ra.dj·at.ed, m·di.at.lug

ques·tion.a.ble (kwes'chan·.,·b"l) adj.
Characterized by doubtful integrity, honesty,
respectability. etc.: a questionable reputation.
ques·tion.naire (kwes'cha·nar') n.
A written or printed form consisting of a
group of questIOns and submitted to a num­
ber of persons in order to obtain data (or a
survey, report, etc.
676
1 To emit or issue forth, as rays: The sun
radiales light and heat; Light alld heat radiale
from the sun. 2 To diverge or spread from a
~
central point: Roads radiated from flome to
all parts of the empire. ~
m·di·us (ra'd.e·ds) n., ra·d.i.! (ril'dlj·j) or ra·
di.us·es pl. ~
1 A line joining the center of a circle or sphere
tI!!I!!
J"agamuffin
to its circumference or surface. 2 A circular
area or boundary measured by the length of
its radius: in a four-mile radius.
rag.a.muf·tin (ragla·muf'in) n.
Anyone, especially a child, in dirty or ragged
clothes.
rail·ler.y (ra'lar·e) n., rail·ler·ies pl.
Good-humored teasing.
Syn. banter, badinage. _ rap.port (N·por') n.
raise (rliz) v. raised, rais.ing
1 To lift; elevate: lIe raised one ann. 2 To
construct or build; erect: Cheops raised a
pyramid. 3 To breed; grow: We intend to raise
corn. 4 To gather together: raise an army;
raise more money for charity.
ram·i·fi·ca·tion (ram'a·fa·kt;'shan) n.
mosphere of the high -mountains.
A result, consequence, etc., stemming from
rar·i·ty (rar'a·te) n., rar.i-ties pI.
a main source: The police are slil! investigating
1 The condition of being rare or uncommon:
the ramifications of the plot.
a book of great rarity. 2 Something rare or
ram.pant (ram'pant) adj.
1 Spreading without control; unrestrained;
raging: Crime was rampant in the city. 2 Grow­
ing unchecked: lVeeds were rampant in the
garden.
ram· part (ram'part) n.
1 A broad embankment surrounding a town
or fort for its protection: to take a walk along
the ramparts. 2 Any bulwark or defenae: the
ramparts of democracy.
ran·cid (ran'sid) adj.
Smelling or tasting like an oily substance that
has begun to spoil: The butter turned rancid
in the Iwl weather,
ran·cor (rang/kar) n.
Bitter and vindictive hatred; spitefulness:
II e continued to bear rancor long after the
Syn. 1 strident, rough.
quarrel.-ran'cor·ous adj.
Ant. 1 soft, mild.
Syn. malice, spite.
ran.dom (ran'dam) adj.
Done or chosen without definite aim; chance:
a random sampling 0/ opinion.
Syn. casual, haphazard.
Ant. designE!d, purposeful.
range (rani) n.; v. ranged. rang.ing
n. 1 The area in which anything moves, op­
erates, or is distributed, as a plant, power,
influence, studies, interests: The range 0/ the
dandelion is worldwide; Mexico is in the U.S.
range of influence; Ilis range embraces all
Oriental languages. 2 The maximum distance
which a projectile, airplane, etc., can travel.
3 A row, as of mountains. 4 A tract of land
on which cattle, etc., roam and graze: The
cowboys rode the range looking for strays.
5 A place for shooting at a mark; rifle range.
6 A stove used for cookin~.
v. 1 1'0 place or arrange III a definite order.
2 To move about or over a region, as in ex­
ploration. 3 To put cattle to graze on a range.
4 To roam.
ran·sack (ran'sak) v.
To search thoroughly, especially for plunder;
pillage: The burglars had ransacked the c/osets.
rant (rant) v.
1'0 speak in loud, violent, or extravagant lan­
guage; rave: The angry directorranled allhe casl.
reactionary
ra·pa.cious (ra-pt;'shas) adj.
Greedy; grasping; extortionate: rapacious
loan sharks.
Syn. predatory.
rap·ine (rap'in) n.
The taking of property by force, as in war;
pillage.
Syn. plunder, looting.
Communication; relationship; harmony: liis
interference disturbed the rapport we had es­
tablished with the patients.
Syn. sympathy, accord.
rar·e·lied (rar'a·ffd) adj.
Pure, refined, thin, or rare: the rarefied at­
scarce: The book is a rarity.
ra·tion (rash'rm) 11., v.
n. A fixed aUowallce, as of food or provisions,
especially such an allowance issued to mem­
bers of the army or navy.
v. To issue rations to.
ra·Hon·al (rash',m-al) adj.
Able to reaSOI,; sensible; wise: The decision
was made by rational men.
rat·tan (ra·tan') n.
The long, tougb, fiexible stem of various
palms, used to make furniture.
rau·cous (ro'kas) adj.
t Harsh-sounding; hoarse: a raucous laugh.
2 Boisterous; disorderly: a raucous party.­
rau'eous·ness n .. rau'cous·ly adv.
ray·age (rav'ij) v. rav.aged, rav.ag.ing; 11.
v. To lay waste by pillaging; devastate: The
town had been ravaged by the invaders.
n. Destructive action and its effects: the
ravages 0/ lime.
Syn. despoil, devastate.
ray·en·ous ( rav'an-as) adj.
Violently hungry; voracious: the diffiCUlty 0/
feeding ten ravenous children.
Syn. ravening, famished.
Ant. assuaged, full.
rav·ish (rav'ish) v.
1 To fill with delight; enrapture: The visitor
was ravished by the scenic beauty 0/ the lown.
2 'ro rape.
raze (raz) v. razed, raz.ing
To level to the ground; demolish: 'l'he Uo­
ma1l8 razed Carthage.
Spelling tip: When you raille sumething you
are beginning iL; when you raze iL you come
to the end, like z.
Syn. destroy, flatten.
ra.zor (rli'zar) n.
A sharp cutting implement used for shaving
off hair, especially whiskers.
re·ac.tion·ar.y (re-ak'shan·er'e) adj.; n. re·ae·
tion.ar·ies pl.
adj. Characterized by, pertaining to, or
677

read
having a desire to return to an earlier idea
or condition, especially in politics: a reac­
tionary longing for the good old days.
n. A person opposed to change.
fend (red) v. read (red), read·jng (re'ding)
1 '1'0 understand something written by in­
terpreting the writing: He could read at three.
2 '1'0 speak written words out loud: to read to
the blind. 3 To understand the significance of:
to read the sky; read palms. 4 To indicate
(said of a recording instrument): The ther­
mometer reads twe1!ty below.
read.i.ly (red'a·le) adv.
1 Without difficulty; promptly: The book was
readily available. 2 Without reluctance; will­
ingly: He readily did what was required of him.
Syn. 1 easily, speedily.
rend.y (red'e) adj. read·j·er, read·i·est
1 Completely prepared for use; finished: Your
order is ready; Dinner is ready. 2 Quick to per­
ceive or understand: a ready wit. 3 Likely or
liable to: The car was ready to collapse.
re·al·is·tic (r~·a·lis'tik) adj.
1 Having to do with the real and practical
rather than the theoretical or imaginary: a
realistic foreign policy. 2 Describing things
in a lifelike way; a rcalistic novel.-re-al·is'·
Ii·cal.ly udv.
re·al·i.za·(ion (re'a!-i·za'shan) n.
S!I
1 A clear understanding; complete appre­
ciation: a realization of a danger. 2 The ob­
taining of money as a profit or return: the
realization of $500 011 the sale. 3. The con­
version into fact or action of plans, ambi~
tions, fears. etc.: the realization of his hopes.
ream (r!!m) n.
An amount of paper consisting of 480, 500,
or 516 sheets.
re·bate (r!!'bat Or ri·bat') n.
A refund or discount: There is a rebate fot
payment in cash.
~
re·bel (d. bel' v.; reb'al n., adj.) v. re·belled,
re.bel.lin!!; n., adj.
~
v. 1 To rISe in armed resistance against the
terns of antisocial behavior: the recidivilml of
established government or' ruler of one's
a chronic offender.-re,cid'i.vist n.; re·cid'i.
country: The American colO1lists rebelled
vig'lic or re·cid'j·vous adj.
against England. 2 To fight against or disobey
Syn. backsliding, incorrigibility.
any authority or tradition: to rebel against
Ant. reform, rehabilitation.
~
accepted beliefs.
rec.i.pe (res';;·p!!) n.
n. A person who rebels: The rebels won the
1 Directions on how to make or prepare
first flgltt.
something, as food: a recipe for ciwcolute
~
ad;. Resisting an established ruler or au­
cake. 2 Any method for attaining a desired
thoritr,: The rebel generals planned a coup.­
thing or goal: Hard work is the recipe fOT
re·bel lion n., fe·bel'lious adj., re.hel'Hous.ly
success.
adv., re.bel'lious,ness n.
re·cip.j.ent (ri-sip'e,ant) 1/.
re·cal·ej·trant (ri·kal'sa·trant) adj.
Refusing to comply; obstinate or rebellious:
a recalcitra1tt student body.-re.cal'ci·trance,
re.cal'cj.tran.cy n.
Syn. defiant, stubborn.
Ant. cooperative, obedient, tractable, sub­
missive.
re·cant (ri.kant') v.
'1'0 withdraw publicly something previously
believed or defended: to recant a heresy.­
re'can.ja'tion, re·cant'er n.
678
.~
reciprocal
Syn. retract, renounce, deny, disavow.
Ant. reaffirm, confirm, defend. maintain.
re·ca.pit.u·late (re'ka·pich'oo.lat) v. re·ca·
-
~
~
pit.u.lat·ed, re.ca.pit.u.lat.ing
To review briefly; sum up: The judge re­
ea
capitulated the evidence for the jury.--re'ca·
pit'u.la't!on n.; re'ca·pit'u.la'!ive, re'ca.pit'u.
,ea
la.to'ryadj.
Syn. summarize, restate, outline. !!!II
re.cede (ri·sed') v. re·ced-ed, re,ced·ing
1 To move back; withdraw: The tide recedes
from the sllore. 2 To slope backward: lIisfore­
head recedes.
re.ceipt (d,set') n.
1 A written acknowledgment that a sum of
money has been paid, that certain goods
have been delivered. etc. 2 The aet of receiv­
ing: the receipt of goods at wurehouses. 3 That
which is received: cash receipts.
re.ceive (ri.s!!v') v. re·ceived, re.ceiv.illg
1 To get, as a possession; acquir": to receive a eI
postcard; to receive a knighthood. 2 To get
knowledge of; learn about: to receive the
news. 3 'fo eXJ;erience directly: to receive 0
{food ~
blow. 4 To greet or welcome; The e mperol'
received the ambassadors. ~
re·cess (r1i'scs 'or ri·ses' 11_; rj-scs' v.) n., re·
. ces>;·es pI.; v.
n. 1 A depression or indentation ill a surface,
especially in a wall: to build bookshelves in the
rec~ss in the 'wall. 2 A period of time d.uring ~
whiCh people stop workmg: The scllOolclaldret;
played duriny reee83. 3 A withdrawn or inner
place: the reces,cs of the uLi"d. ~
v. To put in or as in a recess.
re·ces·sion (ri.sesh'an) n. ~
1 A withdrawal: the gradual recession of thc
tidal wave. 2 A procession: The cony"'galion
sang a hymn during the recession. 3 A slight
~
economic depression: Unemployment increase,,'
during periods of recession.
re·cid·i·\ism (ra·sid';;·viz'am)n.
A tendency to repeat criminal acts and pal­
~
~
~
A person or tlung that receives: the recipient
of (! natio nal award.
rc·cip.ro·cal (ri.sip're·kvl) (Idj. ~
1 Shared or given by both sides: their recip"
rocal love; an exchange of reciprocal insults. ~
2 Done or given ill return: to expect a re­
ciprocal favor when she lends a friend her car.
-re.cip'ro.cal'j-ty, re-cip'ro-cal-ness 'II.; reo ~
cip'ro.ca).!y adv.
SYIl. 1 mutual, corresponding. 2 equivalent. ~
Ant. 1 unilateral.
@!!'!!!
~
'. A
~
recluse
rec·luse (ri·kloos' or rek'IOlis) n.
Someone who avoids all other people by
shutting himself off from the world: He was
a reC/UBe for twelve year8.-re.clu'sive adj.,
re.clu'sive.ness n.
8)'n. hermit, solitary.
rec·og.niz·a·ble (rek'ag.ni'za·bal) adj.
To correct; adjust: 10 rectify a mistake.-rcc'·
Capable of being recognized.
ti·ll'a.ble adj., rec'ti·fi·ea'tion n.
rec.og.nize (rec'ag·niz) v. ree·og·nized, rec·
og.niz.ing
1 To know or remember who or what some­
one or something is: He didn't recognize the
people at the next table; I recognize bad art
when I aee it. 2 To acknowledge the existence
or validity of and start to deal with: The
United States was amon~ the first to recognize
Israel. 3 To show appreciation or awareness
of: Iii. worth was 800n recugnized.-rcc'og.
nl'Hon, rec'og.niz'er n.
rec·on·cile (rek'an·sil) v. rec·on·ciled. ree·
on.eiI·ing
1 '1'0 bring back to friendship after estrange­
ment: to try to reconcile t'Wo friends who have
quarreled. 2 To cause to submit to or accept:
He is reconciled to his fate; Reconcile yourself
10 your lot. 3 To make or show to be consist­
ent: to reconci!.> religion with science.-rec'on.
cil'i.a'lion. rec'on·cile'ment, ree'on·eWer 11.;
rec'on.ell'i.a.to'ry adj.
ree·on·dUe (rek'an·dit or ri·kon'dlt) adj.
Difficult to understand: the recondite writings
of theoretical physicists.-ree'on.dite'ly adu.,
ree'on·dite'ness n.
Syn. obscure, abstruse, arcane.
Ant. understandable, comprehensible,
re,col1.nais.sance (ri·kon'a·suns) 11.
1 A preliminary examination or survey of ter­
ritory. 2 The act of obtaining information of
military value.
re·eon·noi·ter (re'ka·noi'tar or rek'a·noj'tar)
v.
To examine or survey, as for military or
en!lineering purposes: to reconnoiter Ihe ler­
raln.
rec·ord (rek'ard, 11.; ri·kord' 11.) n. v.
n. 1 An account that serves as evidence of a
fact or event: historical records; a photo­
graphic record. 2 The known facts about a
person or thing, regarded as a series of things
done or achieved: voting record. 3 The best
performance to date, as in a competitive
sport: the world's high-jump record. 4 A
phonograph disk: to play an LP record.
v. 1 To set down an authentic account: The
police stenographer recorded his confession
verbatim. 2 To register; tell: The cardiograph
recorded his heartbeat. 3 To make a t1ipe or
phonograph record of: to record the concert.
re·crim·l·na·tion (ri·krim'i),mt'shon) n.
An accusation made in answer to an accusa­
tion: The angry salcsmel' exchallged recrimi­
natiolls.-re.crim'i·nate v.; re.crim'i.na'tlve.
re.crim'i.na.to'r)' adj.
S)'n. countercharge.
re·cruit (ri.krOlit') v., n.
II. 1 To enlist men in an army, navy, etc.:
refer
a campaign to recruit nwre soldiers. 2 1.'0 cause
to join an organization, etc.: to recruit him
to the cause.
n. A newly enlisted member: The recl"uits be­
gan their basic·training.
rec.H·fy (rek'ta·fi) v. rec.li·ticd. rec·ti.fy.ing
Syn. remedy.
rec·li·tude (rek'ta·tOlid or rek'ta.tyOlid) n.
Honesty; integrity; morality: A man of
rectitude dOC3 not renege on a promise.
Ant. dishonesty.
re·cu.per.ate (ri·kOli'pa·rlit or ri·kyOli'pa·rlit)
v. re.eu.per.al·cd, re·cu·pcr·at.jng
1.'0 recover, as from illness or unhappiness:
to recuperate slowly after aI' operatjon.-re.
eu/per.a'lion n.
Syn. convalesce, mend.
Ant. relapse, sink, weaken.
re·cur (ri·kilr') v. re·eurred, rc·eur·ring
To happen again at regular intervals: a dis­
ease that recurs.-re·cur'rence n., re.eur'rent
adj., re.cur'renl.ly adv.
red her.ring (red her'ing) n.
1 A smoked herring. 2 Something introduced
to draw attention away from the main sub­
ject.
red.o·lent (red'a·lant) adj.
1 Giving off a strong, pleasant fragrance;
o<1orous: to savor a red"lent CUl' 0/ coJJee. 2
Suggestive of: a sudden disappearance redo­
lent of mystery.---red'o·lence, red'o.len·cy
n.; red'o.lent.ly adu.
SYl1. 1 fragrant, aromatic, odorous, savory.
re·doubt·a·ble (ri·dou'ta·bol) adj.
Inspiring fear or drea<1; formidable: a re­
dOl.btable enemy.-re·doubt'a·bly a<iv., reo
doubt'a.hle.ness 11.
Syn. fearsome, intimidating.
re·dress (ri·dres') V" n.
v. To set right, as a wrong; remedy: to redress
an injustice.
n. Satisfaction for a wrong done; amends;
reparation: a redress of grievances.
re·duc·j·ble (ri-dOlis'",bal or ri·dyoos'iJ·b"l)
adj.
Capable of being broken down: jill Nwtier is
reducible tomolecules.-re.duc'i.bly adv., reo
due'l.bil'i.ty n.
re·dun·daut (ri·dun'd;mt) adj.
Being more than is required: ""4 high-pitched
falsello voice" is a redundant description.-­
re·dun'dant.ly adv., re.dun'dan.cy fl.
reek (rek) v., n.
v. 1'0 give oII a strong, offensive smell: to reek
of sla!e cigar smoke.
n. A strong, offensive smell: the reek of dead
fish.
re·fer (rj.f(lr') v. re·ferred. re·fer.ring
To turn or send to, as for information. help,
advice, judgment, etc.: to refer to an encyclo­
pedia.--reC'er·a·ble, re·fer'ra·hle adj.; reo
ter'ral, re·fer'rer n.
679
 reference
ref-ar.ance (re('ar'iJns or ref'r<lns) n
1 The act of referring: a casual ref~rellce to a
recent event. 2 A source of information or help:
to consult encyclopedias and dictionaries for
reference. 3 A recommendation: lIer future
employer asked for references.
ref·er·en.dum (ref'~'rcn'dam) n., ref.er.en.
dums or ref·er·en·da pl.
T.he presen,t!!tion to the people of a proposed
l>!ll for qeclsl.on by vote: The bill was rejected
1n a natlOllwtde referendum.
re.flex (~e'fieks) n., re.Hex·es pl.; adj.
n.. AI} mvoluntary response to a stimulus:
blwkmg and other reflexes.
aqj. ;Produced by such a response: a reflex
ddalton of the pupils.
regular habtts.-reg'u.lar.ly adv.; reg'u.lar'j.
re·Crac·to·ry (rj.{rak'tar·e) adj.
Impossible or difficult to control or correct·
a refractory child.-re.frac'to.ri.ly adv.
re·Cur·bish (re·fur'bish) v.
" To restore to good condition: to refurbish an
old desk.
re·fute (ri·fyOOt') v. re·ful.ed, re.rut.jng
To prove incorrect or false: The defense re­
futed t~e prosecution's argument.
Syn. dIsprove, controvert.
Ant. prove, confirm, verify.
re.gal (re'gal) adj.
Ro.yal or stately: the regal palaces; her regal
bearing.
re.gale (ri.g~l') v. re·galed, re.gal.ing
To entertam; amuse: He regaled us wilh an
account of his trip.
imburse him for his travel e:rperl1;e•. -re'im.
re.gard (ri·gard') v., n.
v: 1 To look at or observe closely or attel1­
tl\:ely; to reyard Bomething carefully. 2 To
thmk of: I regard him as a friend.
n. Respect; esteem: to have regard for the law'
to /wId him in high regard.
re·gard·less (ri.gard'IiBI adj.
fraYing no regard: 1'1 do it regardless of the
consequences!
re.gat·ta (ri·gat'a or ri·ga'ta) n.
A boat race or races: to win the first race of
the regatta.
re·glme (ri·zhem') n.
A system or type of government; The military
regime lasted three years.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled reyime.
reg.l·men (rej'a·man) n.
A systematic regulation of diet exercises
etc., intended to improve health: ihe regime~
prescribed by his doctor.
reg·i·ment (rej'a'mant) n.
A military unit larger than a battalion and
smaller than a division; tliu colonel in C01ll­
man,d of tile regilllcut.-reg'i.men'tal adj.,
reg'J·men·ta'tion )"
reg·is.ter (rai'ia·tur) v., n.
v. 1 To record officially: All births and dealhs
are registered in the state archil'es. 2 To indi­
cate; show: The scale registered 200 pounds'
His face regis/ered terror. 3 To enter one'~
name in a record or list: to re(Jister to vote.
n. 1 An official record: the births-and-deaths
680
relevant
register. 2 A device for recording or indicat­
ing: a cash register.
reg.is·tra·tion (rej'is,tra'shan) n.
1 The act,of,entering in a register; also, such
an. entry. 2'1 he number of pemons registered.
re.gr~t (ri·gret') v. re.grel·ted, re·grel.ting; n. ~
v. '1 0 fe~l sorry about: I regret my mistakes.
n. A feellllg of remorse or unhappiness about
~
a past event: When YOlI look back have you any
regrets?·-re·gret'fu) adj., re.gret'ful.ly adv.,
re.gret/ful·ness n.
~
reg·u·lar (reg'ya"lar) adj.
Conforming to a rule. custom, or pattern;
usual: the r,c(Julur UJeekly rneetiny; u man of
e..
- ~;
ty, reg'u.lar.ness 11.
Syn. normal, even, orderly, steady.
~ .
. re·hears·al (ri·ho.r'sal) n. ~
A practice session before a public perform­ •
ance: '1'he dress reileanwl took place one week
before opening niyh!. ~
•
reign (riin) t ' ., 1/.
v. To rule over; control: 'Phe l:iapaburgs
reigned over A~1!stria.
~
~
n. The time or duration of a sovereign's rule.
Spelling tip: Rain, rein, and reign all sound
alike but they have different spellings and
meanings. They are homophones. ~
~
re..im·burse (re'im·bo.rs') ,I. re·im.bursed, reo
Irn.burs.ing
To pay back money to; refund: We will re­ ~
burs'a·ble adj.; re'Im.burs'ment, re'lm.
burs'er n. ~
rein (ran) n., v. ~
n. lOne of two strap" attached to a bit and ~
used to guide or control a horse: Pull on tlte
' reill~ to stop your pony. 2 Any means of re­
stramt or control: '1'lle 'Wage freeze will be a
~
~
rein on i"Jiutio1!.
v. To control with or as if with reins.
~
re·it·er·ate (re-it',,·rat)v. re·it·er,ai·ed. reo
it·er.at.ing
To say again; repeat: The a"yry man reiter­
ated h2S warning of disas!cr.--re·i!'er.a'tlon n. ~;
re·ju·ve.nate (rijoo'va·nat) v. re.ju,ye.nat.ed
re·ju·ye·nat·ing ,
To make youthful or vigorous again.-re.
ju'ye.na'Lion n.
re·lay (re'Ja) n., v.
n. 1 A fresh team or crew that replaces or re­
lieves another: to work in relays. 2 A type of
race. 3 An electric switcb.
v. To pass on: Please relay my mes"a!!" t" your
father.
rel·e·gate (rcl'<l·gai) v. rd·c.gat.ed, rel.e.gat.
ing
1 To selld off or consign, as to an ob~cure
po"ition or place; '1'he old chair was fel"!lated
to a back oJJice. 2 To turn over to someone else:
Relegate all such problems 10 your a"sistan!.
rel·e·vant (rel',,"vant) aelj.
Bearing upon; applicable: pertinent: not re/e­
vant to the question.--rel'<.\.yance n.
reliable
re·\i.a·ble (re.li'a·bal) ad;.
Worthy of confidence; trustworthy: a re­
liable employ,ee; a reliable piece of information. Syn. expostulate. object, protest.
-re·li'a·bil i-ty n., re·U'a.bly adv.
re·li·ance (re·li'ans) n.
Confidence, trust, or dependence: lIe admitted
hia reliance on his old friend.
re·lief (ri.le!') n.
1 Deliverance from pain, anxiety, etc.: The
medicine gave him 80me relief. 2 The person or
thing that relieves: Tile senlry was waiting for
hi8 relief. 3 Assistance; aid: receiving rehef;
on relief. 4 A type of sculpture in which the
figures are raised from the surface.
re·lieve (ri·lev') v. re·lieved, re·liev·ing
station clock is a favorite rendezvous. 2 A meet­
1 To bring relief to: relieve a headache. 2 To
ing by arrangement.
release, as from duty: :J.'he walch was relieved
8)'n. 1 meeting place. 2 assignation, appoint­
at four bells.
ment.
re.lig.ion (ri·lij'an) n.
1 Any particular system of beliefs relatinl!' to
!aith and worship: the Christian religwn;
Oriental religions. 2 Belief in God or the
supernatural.-re·lig'ious adj.
re.lin.quish (rHing'kwish) v.
To give up; abandon; surrender: She reUn­
quished her claim 10 the eslate.
re·ly (d.li') v. re·lied. re.ly·lng
To place trust or confidence: You can rely on
me.
re·me·di·a·ble (ri·me'dtl.a.bal) adj.
Capable of being cured or remedied: 1\1 ost
childhood illnesses are remediable.
Usage: Compare REMEDIAL.
re·me·di·al (ri·mO'd!!·al) adj.
Providing or intended to be used as a remedy
or corrective measure: There was great interesl
in Ihe remedial reading project.
Usage: Remedial refers to what remedies;
remediable to what can be remedied:
re·mem.brance (ri·mem'brans) n.
1 Memory; recollection: He had no remem­
brance of his past life. 2 Often pl. Keepsake;
a memento or message of friendship or regard.
rem·i-nisce (rem'a·nis') v. rem·i·nlsced, rem·
I·nisc·jng
To recall incidents or events of the past.
rem·j·nis·cence (rem/a·nis'ana) n.
1 The recalling to mind of past incidents or
events; recollection. 2 The written or spoken
account of one's past experiences: The old
friends exc/wnged reminiscences of college days.
-rem/l.nls'cent adj.
re·miss (ri·mis') adj.
Slack or careless in matters requiring atten­
tion; lackin!, energy; negligent: He was re­
miss in seltlmg his debts.
re·mit (ri·mie) v. re·mit·ted, re·mlt·tlng
1 To send, as money in payment for goods.
2 'fo pardon; forgive: to remit a crime.
re.mit·tance (ri·mit'ans) n.
The sending of money; also. the money sent:
He depended on a monthly remittance from
1;.ome.
re-mon·strate (ri'mon'strat) v. re·mon·strat·
ell. re·mon·strat.lng
repertory
1'0 plead earnestly with, as in protest or re­
proof: He remonstrated with the lwisy children.
rend (rend) v. rent or rend·ed, rend·ing
To tear apart with violence; split; break; He
rent his garments; The silence was rent by a
deafening uplosio?!.
ren·der (ren'd,Jr)v.
1 To submit for action. approval, payment,
etc.: render a bill. 2 To give or state formally;
render judgment. 3 To melt down: to render
lard.
ren·dez·vous (ran'da·v60)Il., ren·dez.vous pl.
I An appointed place of meeting: Under the
ren·e.gade (ren'13·gad) n.
A traitor; deserter; turncoat: A band of army
renegades roamed the West.
re'l1ege (ri.nig') v. re.ne\\ed, re·neg·ing
1 In card games, to fall to follow suit when
required to; revoke. 2 To fail to keep a prom­
ise: He reneged on his offer to entertain the
children.
re·new (d·noe.>') v.
1 To make new or like new again; restore.
2 'fo resume: to renew an old quarret. 3 Re­
place: renew our stock of supplies. 4 To cause
to continue in effect: to renew a su~scription.
-re·new'al n.
re-nounce (ri·nouns') v. re·nounced, re·nounc·
ing
1 To give up, especiallY by a formal state­
ment: He renounced his inheritance. 2 To dis­
own; repudiate: He reilOlwced his daughter
when ahe left home.
ren·o·vate (ren'a·vat) v. ren.o.val.ed, reno
o·vat·ing
'fo make new again; restore to good condi­
tion; repair: The mansion 'was renovated at
great expense.-ren'o.va'tion, ren'o·va/tor n.
re.nown (ri·noun') n.
Fame; celebrity: a statesman of renown.
re·nUIl·cj·a·tion (ri·nun/se·a'shan) n.
'l'he act of renouncing or giving up: His re­
nunciation of high office 1vas unexpected.
rep·a·ra·tioll (rep/a·ra'shan) n.
'fhe act of making amends; compensation,
especially for war damage: lIe promised to
make reparation for his neglect; lleparations
were deman,led by the allies.
re·pen·tance (d·pen'tans) n.
Sorrow for past faults and a desire to reform;
regret; contrition: Tile judge ~mv no siyn of
repentance il' the condemned mall.-re.pen'­
tant adj.
rep.er·toire (rep'ar·twar) n.
A list of plays, songs, etc., that a person or
company 18 prepared to perform: Many popu·
lar Bongs are ltot in her repertoire.
rep.er·to.ry (rep/"r.tor/e) n.
1 Repertoire. 2 A place where things are
gathered together; repository. 3 A collection.
681
repetition
rep·e·tj·tion (rep'a·ti'shan) n.
The act of repeating; saying, doing, per­
forming, etc., again: lIe finally understood,
after numy repetitions.
rep·e·ti.tlous (rep'g·Ush'as) adj.
Marked by repetition, especially tedious
repetition: Avoid a repetitious speech,-rep.e.
ti'tlous.\y adv.; rep.e·ti'tious·ness n.
re'l!len.ish (ri·plen'ish) v.
stored: the mercury reservoir of a thermometer.
FlIl up again; refill: We 'must replenish our
3 A large supply of anything: A. computer is
depleled stock of office supplies.
an amazing reservoir of data.
re.piete (ri·plet') adj.
Abundantly SUlJPlied; well stocked: a long
novel replete with interesting characters; a life
replete with adventure.
rep.Jj.ca (rep'la.ka) n.
A coPy, as of an original picture or statue;
duphcate; reproduction.
~
re'f.0s.i.to.ry (ri·poz'a.tor·e) n., re.pos.i·to.ries
p.
A place where things may be safely stored;
warehouse; depository.
rep.re.hen.si.ble (rep'ri·hen'sa·bal) adj.
Deservinjl blame or censure; deplorable: Such
behavior ts morally reprehensible
re·prieve (ri.prev') n.; v. re.prieved, re.priev.
ing
n. A temporary delay in carrying out the res·in (rez'in) n.
order of a court, especially a death sentence.
v. 1 '1'0 issue an order for such a delay. 2 '1'0
relieve for a time from danger or trouble.
rep·ri·rnand (rep'N·mand) v.
To find fault with sharply or formally: The
judge reprimar<ded the young lawyer.
rep·ro.bate (rep'ra·btU) n.
A wicked or corrupt person; scoundrel.­
rep'co.ba'tion n.
Syn. profligate, scamp.
re·pud·i.ate (ri·py60'd~·1\t) v. re.pud.j.at.ed.
re.pud.j.at.ing
To refuse to accept as true or binding; dis­
oym: He repudiated our agreement.
re·pug·nance (ri.pug'nans) n.
A strong dislike; distaste: the repugnance
which crudeness inspires.-re·pug'nant adj.
rep.u.ta.ble (rep'ya·ta·bal) adj.
Having a good reputation; estimable; honor­
able: He waS known as a hurd-working,
reputable man.
rep·u·ta·tion (rep'ya·t1\'shan) n.
1 The general estimation in which a person
or thing is held by others, especially by a
community; repute: to be a 'man of high rep­
utation. 2 A particular credit or character
ascribed to a person or thing: a reputation for
honcs/y.
req·ui·site (rek'wa·zit) adj., n.
adj. Necessary; indispensable: the skill requi­
site for driving a 'motorcycle.
n. A necessity; requirement.
re.scil1d (ri·sind') v.
To make void; repeal: to rescind an order.­
re.seind'a·ble adj.
Syn. cancel, abrogate, revoke.
682
respiratory
re·Bern·ble (ri.zem'bal) v. ee·gem·bled, rc·
sem.bllng
To be or look similar.
reB·er.voir (rez'ar·vwOr or rez'ar·vwar) n.!'!!5:
1 A basin, either natural or artificial, for col­
lecting and storing a large supply oi water,
as for use in a city. 2 A receptacle where some ~
..
material, especiaily a liquid or gas, may be
.~
~
res·i·due (rez'a·doc> or rez'a·dy60) n.
A remainder or surplus after a part has· been
removed or treated. «
re.sign (ri·zin') v.
1 '1'0 give up a position, office, ,
etc.:
signed his job and left town. 2 To submit
lie re­ ~
calmly: She resigned herself to spending a
boring. evening. 4
re·si!·iel1·cy (ri·zil'yan·se) n.
~
'l'he quality or power of being resilient; elas­
ticity.
re·sil·iellt (ri.zil'yant) adj. ~
~
I Springing back to a former shape or posi­
~
tion: A rubber bali is resilient. 2 Able to re­
cover from trouble, sorrow, etc.: a man of
resilient character.
~
~
1 A gummy, yellow-to-brown substance given
off by certain plants, especially fir and pine ~
trees, and used in making varnish, lacquer. I
etc. 2 Any of various synthetic substances
with similar properties, used in making ~
I
plastics.·~rcs'in.ous adj.
re·solve (ri·zolv') v. re.solved, re·solv·ing; ll.
v. 1 To decide or determine: lie resolved to quit
his job. 2 '1'0 make clear; explain or solve:
to reaolve a problem. 3 To explain away; re­
move: She resolved Iter douDts.
11. A fixed determination: a resvlvv to "Work hard.
res.o·nant (rez'a·nant) adj.
1 Reflecting or prolonging sound: a resonallt
wa!!. 2 Resounding; ringing: a resona lit voice.
-res'o.nanl.ly adv.
re·source (ri·s6rs', ri·zors', ri·sors' or re'sors) n.
1 A source of help or supply: natura! re­
suurces; financial re"OUrces. 2 Skill or inge,
nuity in meeting any situation: (t ntall of
resource and darinu.
re.spect.a·ble (ri.spek'ta·b"l) adj.
1 Deserving respect; being of good name or
repute; respected: respectable behavior. 2
Fairly good; average: 7'hough respectable,
their performance was worse than usual. 3
Fairly large in number, quantity, size, qual­
ity, etc.: a respectable amou"t of mo1tcy.-­
re·spcct'a·bly adv.
re.spec·tive.ly (ri.spek'tiv·le) adv.
Each in the order given: Tlte first t/tree books
go to John, James, a11d William, respectively.
re.s~ir.a.to.ry (ri·spir'a·tOr'e or res'pa.ra·tOr'e)
ad).
Having to do with breathing: a respiratury
disease,
resplendent
re·splen·dent (ri·splen'dant) adj.
Vividly bright; splendid; gorgeous: She
was resplendent in her diamonds.-re.splen'­
denl·l)' adv.
re·sponse (ri·spons') n.
An answer; reply; reaction: 'fhe priest waited
for the response from the congregation.
re.spon.si.bil·j·ty (ri.spon'sa·bil',,·te) n., reo
spon.s!·bil·i·ties pl.
1 The state of being responsible: He. denied
any rcspollsibilitjl for Ins brother's actiOlls.
2 A person or thmg for which one is respon­
sible: Her parents and children are her re­
sponsibilities.
res·tj·tu·tion (res'ta·too'shan or res'ta·tyoo'­
A making known or something made known,
shan) n.
especially when surprising: His eloquence
'l'he act of restoring or returning something
came as a reve/atia n tu me.
that has been taken away or lost: the restitu­
fllv·el·ry (rev'al·re) n., rev·el.ries pI.
tion of the Indian la nds.
N()isy merrymaking.
res.tive (res'tiv) adj.
1 Difficult to control; unruly: a restive horse.
2 Restless; uneasy: a restive audience.­
res'live.ly adv.
re·Burne (ri·zoom') v. re.Burned, re·surn.jng
1 'ro begin again: We wilt resume reading to­
morrow. 2 To take or occupy again: to resume
a position.
r1!s·u·rne (re~'00·m4' or rez'Oo·ma) n.
A summary. as of a person's employment
record.
re·Bur'jlenee (ri·sur'jans) n.
A rislllg again: a resurgence of crime.-~re.
sur' gent adj.
re·BuB·ci·tate (ri·sus'a·tat) v. re·BuB·ci·tat.ed.
re.sus.c!.tal.ing
To bring or come back to life; revive from
unconsciousness. -re·Bus'ci·la'/ion n.
Spelling lip: Rememher the c in this word.
re·tal·i·ate (ri·tal'l!·a.t) v. re.tal·\·at·ed. re·
taM·at·lng
To get even by returning like for like: If you
insult him, he will retaliate.-re·tal'i·a'tion n,
re·len·live (ri·ten'tiv) adj.
Having the power to hold, keep, or relllem­
ber: a re/entitle mind; a retentive soit.-re·len'­
live.l, adv.
ret·i·cent (ret'a.sanl) adj.
Saying little; inclined to hesitate; uncom­
municative.-ret'l·cent.lyadv.
ret·i·na (ret'a·na or ret'na) n., ret·j.nas or rei·
i·nlle (ret'a·ne) pl.
The inner membrane at the back of the eye­
ball, that is sensitive to light and transmits
the image to the optic nerve.
ret·i·nue (ret'a·noo or ret'a·nyoo) n.
The group of persons attending a person of
rank: The movie star alld her retinue arrived
la8t night.
re·trae·tion (ri.trak'shan) n.
The taking back of an assertion, accusation,
admission. etc.: He demanded (! pu.blic re­
traction of the story.
ret·ri·bu·tion (ret'ra·byOo'shan) n.
A deserved punishment given in return for a
wrong done.
rhetoric
re·trieve (ri·trev') v. re·trieved, re·triev·ing
'1'0 get or bring back; regain; restore: to re­
trieve a lost ball; to retrieve one's high spirits,
ret·ro·ale·live (ret'rO·ak'tiv) adj.
fIll. ving an effect on what is past; a retro­
active salaryincrease.-ret'ro.ac'tive·ly ad!>.
ret.ro.Bpee·dve (ret'ra.spek'tiv) adj.
1 Looking back on the past. 2 Applying to
the past: a retrospective law.-· ret'ro.spec'­
live.Iy ade.
rev·eil·le (rev'i·Hi) n.
A drum or bugle signal, notifying soldiers
or sailors to wake up and start the day.
rev.e·la·tion (rev/a·la'shim) n.
re·ver·ber·ale (rj·vur'ba·rat) v. re·ver·ber.
at.ed, re.ver.her.at·ing
To echo back; resound: reecho: The whole
arena reverberat"d with the cheers.-re.ver'ber.
a'tion n.
rev·er·ence (rev'ar·ans) n.; v. rev·er·enced,
rev·er.enc·ing .
n. A feeling of profound respect. often mixed
with awe and affection; veneratIOn.
v, To regard with respect; worship.
rev·er·ellt (rev'ar·ant) adj.
Feeling or showing reverence; reverent pupils;
a reverent genufieclion.~rev'er.ent.ly adv.
rev·er·ie (rev'ar·e) n.
Dreamlike wlmdering of the mind; day­
dream: Lost ill reverie. she was startled by the
sou lid of the doorbell.
re·vile (ri·vll') v. rc·viled, re.vil·ing
'1'0 attack wiLh abusive language; 11e reviled
the traitor on the Senate Jloor.
rev·o.ea·ble (rev'a·ka·bill) adj.
Capable of being taken back Of canceled:
This license is revocable.
re·vue (ri·vyoo') n.
A type of musical comedy consisting of a
series of loosely connected skits, songs, etc.,
often satirizing events and people.
Spelling tip; This word is also spelled review.
rhap·sod.jc (rap·sod'ik) "e/j.
1 Characteristic 01 a rhapsody; a rhapsodic
element of Ihe symphony. 2 Extravagantly en­
thusiastic; gushing; The critics were rhap­
sodic about her performance.
Syn. 2 rapt. rapturous.
rhap.so.dy (rap'sa·de) n., rhap.so.dies pl.
1 An extravagant or emotional utterance: He
u'ellt into a rhapsody about life in the woods.
2 A musical composition irregular in form and
very emotional: Lisz!'s Hungarian rhapsodies.
rhet·a·rie (reVa·rik) n.
1 The art of using elegant. forceful language:
Cicero and A.ristotle wrole books on rhetoric.
2 Language without honest meaning or in­
tention: It was mere rhetoric when Iw said he
wanted reform; llis crusade for reform is mere
rhetoric.-rhe·tor·i·tal (ri-tor'i·kal) adj.
683
 ~

-~
.~
. 4

rhinoceros
rhi.noe·e.ros (ri·nos'ar·as) n. rogue (rog) n.
A large, plant-eating mammal having one or
two horns on its nose and a very tough hide.
rhu.barb (roo'barb) n.
A plant having large leaves with thick leaf­
~
stalks that are used in cooking.
~
rubble
~
1 A dishonest person; knave: The rogue slole ~j
al~ of Ttty cash. 2 A person who is innocently
mlsc!lICVOUS or playful; a rascal: 1 saw you,
you young rogue! 3 A fierce and dangerous
animal, separated from the herd.

rib· aId (rib'ald) adj. room-mate (room'mat') n. ~

Having to do with or using coarse language A person who shares a room or lodging with
or vulgar jokes: a ribald anecdote. another or others: They were roommales at ~
- j
ric·o·chet (rik'a·sha') v. prep school.
To bounce or rebound off a surface, as a ro·sa·r)' (ro'zo.re) n., ro·sa·ries pl. ~- !
bullet off a wall. 1 A string uf beads for keeping count of

ri.dle.u·lous (ri,dik'ya.las) adj. prayers, 2 A series of prayers as counted on

~
Absurd and unworthy of consideration: a a rosary. . !
ridiC1tiOILS fuss about a trifle. ros·trum (ros'lrdm) n., ros·trums or ros.Ira
rife (rU) adj. pI.
~
~
Widespread: HUlLger is rife in the underde­ A pulpit or platform for puhlic speaking:
veloped countries. The speaker irwited the heckler 10 join him on C"'!!t
right·eous (ri'chas) adj. the rostrum. 4
Upright; just.-rIght'eous.ly adv. Syn. dais.
~
rig.or (rig'ar) n. ro·tate (ro'tat) v. ro.tal·ed, ro.lal.ing
1 Strictness; harshness; severiLy: The judge 1 To turn or cause to turn on or as if on an
interpreted the laws wilh rigor. 2 Inclemency, axis: The world is rotaling at a rale of one ~
I
as of weather; hardship: the rigors of the revolution a day. 2 To alternate in a dcllnite

norihern cli1l\ale. order: The farmer rolaled his crops every year.
~
rinse (rins) v. rinsed, rins·ing Syn. 1 revolve. I
To clear soap, impurities, etc" frum by using rotc (rot) n.
clear water: Be sure and rinse the dishes after A mechanical way of doilllj something, as

~
I
washing them. learning without understandlllg.

rise (rlz) v. rose or ris.en, ris.jng Usage: Rotc is usually always used in the ~
1 Get up from II sitting, kneeling, or Jying phrase by rote: to learn b!J role; repeat by rote.
I
position. 2 To move, grow, or project up­
wards: The SUII is rising; The land rises near
ro·lund (ro.tund') adj. ~
I Chubby; spherical; plump: a rotulld COU1l­
here. 3 To swell in quantity or extent: Dough tenance; a rolund little woman. 2 Full-toned,

rises. as a voice or utterance; sonorous: one of the ~

ris.que (ris·ka') adj. u8ual rotund speeches by the senator.

Bordering on impropriety; off-color: lIe e1/,­ ro·tun·da (riHun'dil) n.

barrassed Ihe company by lelling a risque slory.
Syn. racy, ribald, suggestive.
rite (m) 11.
A solemn or religious ceremony performed
in II prescribed or estahlished manner. or the
words and acts accompanying it: Easlbr riles.
ri.val.r)' (ri'val,re) n., ri·val·ries pl..
Competition: They had engaged ill friendly
rivalry over the year•.
roan (ron) adj., 11.
adj. Having II color consisting of reddish or
yellowish brown thickly speckled with white
or gray.
n. A horse of this color.
ro·bot (ro'bat) n.
1 A mechanical man constructed to perform
A circular building or room with a dome.
fOU·e (roo·a.') n.
A sensualist; dehauchee: aging roues attempl­
ing 10 recapture youth and vilalitl/.
rouge (roozh) 1t.
A cosmetic used to color the cheeks or lips
red: Her color owed more to rouge Ihan good
health.
rough (ruf) adj.
1 Having an uneven or broken Burfuce; not
smooth, level, or polished: a rough country;
rough hands; rough cloth. 2 Boisterous or
tempestuous; stormy: a roayl! p(l8~age. 3
Brutal; disorderly: a rough game; <l rouyh ~
customer. 4 Approximate; not finished: a

work in place of human beings. 2 A person rOI,yh estimale; a rough skelch.

who works dully or mechanically; automaton.
Etymology: Robols was a term used by the
Czech playwri~ht Karel Capek for the me­
chanical men In his play R.U.R. (llossum's
Unit'ersa! Robots).
ro·bust (rD· bust') adj.
~
1 Possessing strength and endurance; sturdy;
Spelling lip: Hemember the f sound i~ spelled ~
gh.
route (root or rout) n. ~
I The course taken ill getting from olle point
to anuther: If'e took the scenic roule. 2 The
territory covered by a milkman, mailman,
etc.: Thai street is not on his route.

vigorous: a robust physique; a robusl plant. rub·ble (rub'al) n. f!!!!!!!I

2 Rich or strong, as in flavor: a robust soup. Rough pieces of stone, hrick, etc., as that to
3 Crude or 'unpolished; without subtlety: a
robust humor; robust manners.
which buildings are reduced when destroyed: E!!!!!!
The explosion reduced the factory to rubble'
f!!!!!!!
684
f!!!!!

'-'
ruddy
rud·dy (rud'e) adj. rud.di.er, rud.di·est
Having a reddish tinge or glow; rosy: a ruddy
complexion.-rud'di·ness n.
Syn. florid. flushed. rubicund.
ru.di.ment (roo'da·mant) 11.
A first principle, step, stage, or condition;
IIw rudiments of French.
Syn. basic, fundamental, starter, beginning.
ru.di.men.ta.ry (roo'da·men'taN!) adj.
1 Elementary: a rudimentary knowledge of
Ji'rench. 2 Imperfectly developed; vestigial:
a rudimentary tail.
Syn. 1 fundamental, introdUctory. 2 embry­
onic, Ilbortive. .
rur·li.an (ruf'~·an or ruf'yan) n.
'A lawlells, brutal, cruel fellow: a gang of
ruffians.
8yn. roughneck, rowdy, thUg, hoodlum,
sa.li.ent (sa/le,ant) alij., 11.
hooligan.
adj. Standing out prominently; conspicuous
Ant. gentleman.
or projecting: the salieni points of an argumeni;
ru·mi·nate (roo'ma,nat) P. ru·mi.nat·cd. ru·
mt.nat·ing
1 To chew food previously swallQwed and
regurgitated. as a cow. 2 To think or reflect;
ponder: He ruminated over the evidence all day.
8yn.2 muse, deliberate.
rum.mage (rum'ij) p. rum.maged, rum·mag.
Ing
To search by turning over and disarrang­
ing the contents: We rummaged tlte closet.
SY1l. ransack.
rum·mage sale (rum'ij sal) n.
A sale of secondhand objects to obtain
money for some charitable purpose.
ruse (rooz) n.
An action intended to mislead or deceive;
trick: She t/wughi I)f a clever ruae to avoid cle­
leclio?!.
ruth.less (rooth'lis) adj.
Having no compassion; merciless: a ruthless
murderer.-ruth'less.ly adv.; ruth'less.ness n.
.....- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - s a . l o n (sa·lon') 11.
S 1 A formal room in which gne"ts arc received:
sac·ri·fice (aak'ra·fis) n.; v. sac·ri,ficed, sac.ri.
fic.ing
n. 1 An offerin~ to a god in worship or atone­
ment: the sacnfice of a lamb; human aacrifice.
2 A giving up of one thing for another: He
made the sacrifice of a lucrative job in order to
became a missionary.
v. '1'0 make a sacrifice, as by offering some­
thing to a god or by relinquishing something:
He sacrificed his weekends for his sick friel/d.
sllc·ri·fi·cial (sakira.fish'all adj.
Being or having to do with a sacrifice: (I
sacrificial lamb.--sac'ri.fi'cial,ly adv.
sac.ri·)ege (sak'ra,lij) n.
An act of disrespect for anything sacred.­
Syn. 1 salubrious, tonic, restorative, 2 helpful.
sac'ri.le'gious adj,; sac'ri.le'gious·ty adv.;
sa·lute (sa·loot') n.; v. sa,lut.ed, sa.lut·ing
sac'ri·le'gious·ness n.
1/. A gesture of welcome or respect, as by
Syn. desecration, defilement.
raising the hand to the forehead, firing
sac·ro·sanct (sak'rtHangkt) adj.
Exceedingly sacred: Old ideas should not be
treated as sacrosanct.-sac'ro.sanc'tj.ty n.
8yn. holy, inviolable, sanctified.
salute
sa·ga (sii'jia) n.
1 A medieval Scandinavian "tory of historical
or legendary exploits: the sagas of the Vikings.
2 A long verse or prose narrative, often telling
the history of a family.
sa·ga.cious (sa·gii'shas) adj.
Characterized by wisdom aud shrewdness: to
ask a sagacious man for advice.-sa.ga'cious.
Iy adv.; slI.gll'cious.ness n.
sa.~a.ci.ty (sa.gas'a.te) n.
Discernment and wisdom: the sagacity of tlte
wise old statesman.
Syn. judgment, senBe, pereeptivelle£s.
sa.la.dous (sa.lii'sh')ll) adj.
Lewd; lustful; obscene: a salad""" wan; a
salacious joke.'~sa.la'cious.ly adv,; sa.la'­
dous·ne!;>; n.
the salient features of the landscape.
n. The part of a fortification, trench, etc.,
that extends toward the enemy: the salient of
the trench.
sa.line ( sa'len Or Ba'lin) adj" /I.
adj. Made of, containing, or having to do
with salt: the saline taste of sea water; a saline
solution.
n. A metallic salt or a salt solution used in
medicine and scientific research.-sa·lin'Hy
n.
sa·li·va (sa,li'vJ) n.
'fhe fluid secreted by the gland" of the
mouth.-sal'i.var.yadj.
Syn. spit, spittle, sputum.
sal.low (sal'o) adj.
Of an unhealthy, yellowish color. said
chieflr. of the human skin: a sallow c<Hnplexion.
-sal low· ness n.
Syn. wan. pallid.
Ant. ruddy, rosy .
'rhey entertained in Ihe salon. 2 The periodic
gathering of a group of famous people in the
house of a wealthy or prominent person: the
aalon of Pri1/cess Malilde. 3 A shop or
establishment devoted to a specific purpose:
a beauty salon; a reducing salon.
sa·iu·bri·ous (s<l·16o'bre·as) adj.
Good for the health; healthful: the s<Llubrious
sea air.-- sa.hl'bri.ous.ly adv.; sa·lu'bri·ous·
ness, sa.lu'bri·t)' n.
S),n. wholesome, invigorating.
sal.u·tar.y (sal'yHer'e) adj.
1 Healthful: the salutary effect" of mountain
air. 2 Beneficial: a satul(lrll fClcinu vf the facts.
-sal'u.tar'i.l)' wl".; sal'u·tar'i·ness n.
cannon, etc.: the Boy Scout salule; a 20-gurt
saluie.
v. 1'0 make a salute: The soldier saluted the
general.-s8.lut'er n.
685

salvage
sal·vage (sal'vii) v. sal·vaged, sal.vag.ing; n.
o. To save from destruction, as cargo from a
shipwreck, papers from a fire, etc.: to salvaile
part of the cargo.
n. 1 The act of saving from destruction: the
salvage of furniture fro711 a burning house.
2 Something saved from destruction: the
salvage which Ihe divers brought up fron! the
wrecked ship.-sal'vage·a.ble adj.; ,;al'vag.er
n.
salve (sav) n.; v. salved, salv·!ng
n. A thick, adhesive ointment which heals or
soothes the pain of wounds, etc.: to apply salve
to the blun.
v. To soothe or calm: to salve one's conscience
with good resolutions for the future,
sanc·ti·mo·ni·ous ( sangk't;;·mo'ne·as) adj.
Making a pretense of piety Or virtuousness:
his sanctimonious lecture on duty and ideals.­
sanc'ti.mo'nl.ous.ly adv.; sanc'ti.mo'ni.ous.
~
ness, sanc'ti·mo'ny n.
Syn. hypocritical.
sat·ire (sat'ir) n.
sanc.lu·ar.y (sangk'choo·er'e) n., sanc·tu·ar·
Ies pl.
1 A holy or sacred place, especially a church
or the part of a church where the main altar
is located. 2 A place of refuge for people or
animals: a bird sanctuary.
sand·wich (sand'wich or san'wich) n., v.
n. Two slices of bread with meat, cheese, or
any other food Letween them: a ham sand­
wich.
v. To place or squeeze between two other
things: His small box was sandwiched between
two suitcases.
Spelling tip: Whichever way you pronounce
this word, be sure to speil it with a d.
Syn. v. cram, wedge, insert.
1Io,;;2!i£I
san.guine (sang'gwin) adj.
I Cheerful, confident, and optimistic: A
sanguine man sees tlte world through rose­
c.olored glasses. 2 Having a healthy, rosy
color; :uddy. 3 Havir;g t.he color of bloo;i.-;­
I
san'gume.ly adv.; san gume·ness n.; san gUl·
nar'yadj.
Syn. 1 buoyant, hopeful.
v '1'0 walk in a leisurely or lounging manner;
Ant. 1 gloomy, pessimistic, apprehensive.
stroll: to saunter along the rivcrballk.
sans (sam:. French san) prep.
French Without: She was in the habit of
swimming sans suit.
Syn. minus, lacking.
Ant. with, including, plus.
sap.phire (saf'ir) 11., adj.
11. I A precious gem ha ving a deep blue color:
wrong thing. ..
a ring set with sapphires. 2 The deep, pure blue
Spelling Up: In. French, o~ IS prono,\need wa.
color of this jewel.
8yn. poise, polish, diplomacy, Hua>:lty.
ad;. Having this color: a sapphire gown.
Ant. gaucheness, tactlessness, bOOrIshness.
sar·casm (siir'kaz·am) n.
I The use of ironic 01' satirical remarks to
express contempt or derision. 2 An ironical
and mocking remark uttered as a taunt or
scornful gibe.-sar.cas'tlc ad}.; sar·cas'''·
cal.ly adv.
Syn. I irony, mockery.
sar.don·ic (siir·don'ik) adj.
686
-~
,~
~
scalpel
~
~
Scornful or derisive; sneering: a sardonic
expression.-·sar.don'i.caJ.ly adv.
Syn. caustic, mocking, cynical, jaundiced.
sar·to·ri·al (sar.tOr'e·,,1 or sar·to're·al) adj. . ~
Pertaining to Tnen's clothes: the sarto."tai
~
Bplendor oj the Edwardian dandy.-sar.to'rj·
al.ly adv.
sal·el·lite (sat'a·lit) n.
1 In astronomy, a celestial ~ody (~s a planet, ~
moon, etc.) whICh revolves m orbit around a
larger one. 2 A man-made object launched
by means of a rocket into orbit around the
~
earth or other celestial Lody. 3 A small na­
tion whose political and economic policy is .~
controlled by a great power: East Germany
is a satellite of Russia.
sa·tj·e·ty (sa·U'a·te) n.
.~
• •
~
The state of being completely or excessively
satisfied; repletion or surfeit: sluffed to satiety
on !talia n food.
•
Irony wit or parody used to expose folhes,
. •
abuse~ et~.· mockery: polit-icai cartoons a1ld
other jorms' of satire.-sa.tir'ic. sa·tir'j·cal
~
~
adj.; sat'i.rist n.
sal·is·fy (sat'is·fi) v. sat.is·l1ed,sat.is·fy·ing
1 To please, gratify, appease, or f~lfill: The ~
meal satisfied !tis hunger. 2 To conVillee; free
from doubt or anxiety: Are yOll satisfied that
• •
I am telling the truth? ~
sal·u·rate (Hach'a·rat) v. sat·u·ral.ed, sal·u· 4
rat·ing ~
To fill or permeate as by ~oaking: The dye I
slowly saturated the ~loth.-sat'u.ra'tion n.
Syn. impregnate, suffuse, drench. ~
I
sau·cy (so'se) adj. sau·d·er. sau·d·est
1 Insolent; disrespectful: a saucy child
talking mdely to her grandmother. 2 Lively a!,d ~
amusing; piquant: a sprightly, saucy gannl!.
-sau'cI·ly adv.; sau'ci.ness n. ~
I
Syn. 1 impudent. impertinent, fresh. 2 pert.
Ant. 1 courteous, deferential, meek. 2 quiet, ~
reserved. bland.
saun·ler (Hon'tor) v., n. ~
n. 1 A slow, aimless way of walking: the ~
saunter of a man with time to kill. 2 An idle
stroll: a saunter through tlw 1000d".
sa·voir·faire (Ha·vwar·filr') n. French
Ability to say and do the right thing;
polished and tactful manners: a man with so
little savoir-faire that he invariably does the
.
sa·vor (sa'vvr) V., n.
v. To taste or enjoy with pleasure: to ~avor lhe
bu uquet of a delicious wine.
n. Flavor; smell: the savor of freshly brewed
coffee.
seal·pel (skal'pal) n.
A small pointed knife with a very sharp,
thin blade, used Ly surgeons.
scarab
scar·ab (skar'ab) n.
1 A large black beetle, held sacred in ancient
Egypt. 2 A gem or ornament that represents
this beetle.
scarce.ly (skare'le) adv.
1 Only just, barely: I can scarcely see the
house in the distance. 2 Probably or certainly
not: Ile can scarcely be the author.
scar·d.ty (skar'sa·til) n., scar·ci.ties pI.
Inadequate supply; insufficiency, lack: a
scarcity of fresh vegetables.
scath·ing (ska'thing) adj.
Painfully severe, bitter: She wrote a scathing
criticistll of the project.
scav.en·ger (skav'in·jar) 11.
I An animal that feeds 011 carrion, as the
buzzard. 2 A person who searches refuse,
garbage, etc., for usable rna terial.
scene (sen) n.
I An area and all connected with it, as
presented to view; a landscape: A beautiful
8cene could be viewed from the window. 2 '1'he
place in which the action of a drama is
supposed to' occur; setting. 3 '1'he place and
surroundings of any event: the scene of the
crime. 4 A division of an act of a play. 5 A
display of anger or excited feeling in front of
others: He made a scene in the s/wp.
scent (sent) n., II.
n. 1 A distinctive odor, especially a pleasant
one. 2 A residual odor by which a living being
can be tracked. 3 Perfume: 1 like the scent she
wears.
II. 1 '1'0 perceive by smell: The dog scented his
master. 2 '1'0 form a suspicion of: He 8cented
hia betrayat. 3 To make fragrant; perfume:
7'he flowera Bcent the room. ' scourged the people vf Euwpe.
Bcep·ter (sep'tar) n.
A staff or wand carried as the badge of
command or sovereignty.
sched·ule (skej'iiOl) 11.; v. Bched.uled, sclted.
ul·lng
n. 1 A list; catalogue; inventory: a schedule of
prices. 2 A timetable: a bus schedule. 3 A
detailed and timed plan for any procedure;
program.
scur·ri,)ouB (~ko.r'a·las) adj.
~. To place in or on a schedule: to schedule an
Grossly and offensively abusive: scurrilous
tnten'lew.
schol.ar.ship (skol'ar.ship) n.
1 The mental attainments of a scholar;
leaming; erudition: He was held in great
respect because of his scholarship. 2 A grant of
money for a student to enable him to study.
sci.at·ic (si·at'ik) adj.
Having to do with or affecting the hip or its
nerves: a sciatic cein.
sci·ence (si'ans) n.
1 Knowledge, generally obtained through
observation and experimentation, logically
arranged and systematized in general laws
subject to verification. 2 Any branch of such
knowledge, as mathematics, physics, etc.­
sci'en·tif'lc adj.; sci'en·tiC'i.cal.l)' adv.; sci'­
en·tist n.
secession
sdm·i·tar (sim'a·tar) n.
A curved Oriental sword or saber.
Spelling tip: 'fhis word is also spelled $cimiter.
scill·m·ta (sin· tWa) n.
A spark; trace; iota: There was not a scintiUa
of tmth in the story.
scin·til·late (sin'ta.lat) v. scin·Iil·lat·ed, sciu.tiI.
!at.jng
To sparkle; glitter; twinkle: star8 that scintil­
late tn the sky.
sci·on (aj'an) n.
1 A child or descendant, especially of a
prominent family. 2 A twig or shoot of a
plant, especially for grafting.
scle·ro.sis (skla·ro'sis) n., scle·ro·ses (skla.r?,;'.
s(!z) pl.
'1'he thickening and hardening of a tissue or
part.
scone (sk(jn) n.
A round tea cake or biscuit usually eaten
with butter.
scope (skup) n.
1 Room or chance for development: '1'lte job
didn't give him enouph scope 10 exercise his
abilities. 2 Range of view or activity; outlook:
a mind of limited scope. 3 '1'he area or sphere
in whic.h any activity takes place: tlte scope of
a scientific work.
scoun·drel (skoun'dral) n.
A mean, unprincipled person: rogue; villain.
S),n. rascal, knave, cad.
scourge (skurj) n.; v. scourged, scourg.ing
n. 1 A whip. 2 A cause of suffering or trouble:
Ihe scourge of disease; the scourge of war.
v. 1 To whip severely; lash, flog. 2 To punish
severely; chastise; afflict: Atlila's armies
scru.pu·lous (skriiO'pya·las) adj.
Conscientious, exact, or careful: a scrupulous
person; a scrupulous account of all the expenses.
Syn. meticulous, lmnctilious, fastidious.
scu].lion (skul'yan) 11.
A servant who washes and scuurs dishes.
pots, and kettles. '1'his word is seldom used
today.
language; scnrrilolls writillg.-stur'ri.loUs.)y
adv.; scur'ri.!ous.ness, scur.ril'j·ty n.
scythe (slth) n.
A tool used for mowing, reaping, etc., con­
sisting of a long, curved blade fixed at an
angle to a long, bent handle.
Se·lllICe (sa'aus) n.
A meeting of persons sGeking to communicate
with the dead.
se·cede (si.sed') v. se.ced."d, se.ced.ing
To withdraw from a union, fellowship, or
association, especially from a political or
religious one.
se·ces·sion (sl.sesh'an) 11.
The act of seceding; withdrawal from fellow­
ship, especially from a political or religious
associatlOn.--se.ces'sion·ist n.
687

secondary
sec·on.dar.y (sek'an·der'll) adj.
Of second rank, grade, importance, class, etc.:
secondary induslries.-sec'on.dar'j.ly adv.
Syn. auxiliary, subordinate.
sec.re·tar.y (sek'ra·ter'e) n., sec.re.tar·ies pl.
1 A person who writes letters, keeps records,
etc., for an individual, business, etc. 2 An
executive officer who presides over and
manages a department of ~overnment: the
Secretary of State. 3 A writing desk with a
bookcase or cabinet on top.-sec·re.tar.j.al
(sek'ra·tilr'e·al) adj.
sec·u·lar (sek'ya·l<>r) adj.
1 Not fully; partially; partly: semiautomatic,
1 Not religious or spiritual; temporal;
semicivilized. 2 Exactly half: semicircle.
worldly: secular education. 2 Not bound by
3 Occurring twice (in the period specified):
monastic vows: the secular clergy,
semiweekly.
se·cur.i·ty (si.k:ril1Sr/a·te) n., se.cur.j.ties pl.
Usage: Semi- in semiweekly and like words
1 The condition of being secure; freedom
means twice a week, etc., and should not be
from danger, poverty, or apprehension. 2 A
confused with bi- in biweekly, etc., which
person or thing that secures or guarantees: A
usually means onee every two weeks, etc.
diel rich in vitamin C is a security against
8curvy. 3 Something deposited or pledged as a
sen·ale (sen 'it) n.
guarantee for payment of money, etc.
S) The upper branch of national or state
se·date (si·dat /) adj. '
legislative bodies of the United States and
Habitually calm and unhurried; sober and
other governments.
decorous.-se·date/ly adv.; se·date'ness n.
sen·a·lor (sen/a·tdr) n.
Syn. placid, grave, composed, quiet.
Ant. excited, agitated.
(Often capital S) A member of a senate.
sed·en·tar.y (sed'an·ter'e) adj.
se.nile (se/nil) adj.
1 Hequiring much sitting or a habitual sitting
1 Pertaining to, caused by. or characteristic
posture: Writerslcad a sedentary life. 2 Accus­
of old age: senile decay. 2 Infirm; weak; doting.
tomed to much sitting: sedenlary people.
se·nil·i·ly (si.nil',,-te) n.
se·duce (si·docs' or si·dyocs /) v. se·dueed, se.
duc-ing
To lead into wrongdoing; tempt: He was
seduced by dreams of wealth and power.-se·
due'er, se·due·lion (si.duk/shan) n.
seethe (sHh) v. seethed, seeth.jng
1 To boil. 2 To foam and bubble as if boiling:
7'he orea/eers seelhed on the shore. 3 To be
agitated or excited, as by rage: He seethed
with anger.
seg.re·gate (seg/re-gAt) v. seg.re-gat.ed, seg·
re·gat.ing
1 To place apart from others or the rest;
isolate: The safest way is to segregate the sick
kitten. 2 To set apart and force to use
separate facilities, as in housing, schools. and
transportation, because of racial, religious,
or social differences.
seine (san) n.; v. seined, sein.jng
n. A long fishnet hanging vertically in the
water and having tioats at the top edge and
weights at the bottom.
v. To fish or catch with a seine.
seize (sez) v. seized, sei,,·ing
1 To take hold of suddenly; clutch; grasp:
The dog seized him by the lea. 2 To take
possession of by force: The enemy seized the .
tOlOn. 3 '1'0, take prisoner; capture; arrest.
4 To take advantage of immedIately: to seize
an opportunity.
sei.zure (se/"har) n.
1 The act of seizing. 2 A sudden or violent
attack. as of a disease; fit; spell: an epileptic
8ei,;mre.
688
•
~
e-.'"
•
~
sensible ea.•
~
sel·vage (sel'vij) n.
The edge of a woven fabric so fmished that it
will not fa vel.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled selvedge. ~
se·man·tics (si:man'tiks) n.
The study of the development of and the
changes ill the meanings of words.-se.man / • ~
tic adj.
~
sem·blance (sem/blans) n.
Outward appearance; likeness; look; aspect: •
The room took on some semblance of order.
semi· prefix
~
~
4
. ~
4
~
~
~
1 A governing or legislative body. 2 (Capital
~
:Mental and physical weakness due to old age:
They watched for signs of senility.
sen·ior (Sen/ydr) adj., n.
adj. 1 Older, often used to distinguish a
father from his son: John Smith, senior (or
Sr.). 2 Higher in rank or longer in service: a
senior partner.
n. 1 The one who is older. higher iii rank, or
longer in service. 2 A student in the fourth
year of a high school or college.
sen·sa·lion (sell·sa'sIHln) ii,
1 The awareness resulting from the stimula­
tion of any of the sense organs: Honey gives a
sensation of sweetness. 2 A feeling that comes
from the mind or the emotions: a sensation of
fear; a sensation of uneasiness.
sen·sa·tiol\·al (sen·sa/shan-a\) adj.
Causing great excitement, interest. or shock:
a sensational play.
sense (sens) n.; v. sensed, sens·jng
n. 1 Any of the physical powers by which an
individual receives impressions of the
external world, as taste. touch, hearing,
smell. or sight. 2 Rational perception accom­
panied by feeling; realization; understanding:
a sense of wrong; a sense of duty. 3 Normal
power to think or under~tand; sound or
natural judgment: He /tas no sense; She is
coming 10 her senses.
v. To become aware of; feel; realize: He
sensed opposition.
sen·si,ble ( sen' sa· bill) adj.
1 Having or showing good sense and under­
standing; reasonable: sensible conduct; a
sensory
8ensible.person. 2 F~lIy a~are; cognizant 10:
be senstble of the dtfficultu8 of a problem­
sen/si.blyadv. .
sen·so·ry (sen'sar·e) adj,
Of or having to do with the senses or sensa­
tion: sensory perception; sensory nerves.
sen.li.nel (sen'ta·nal) n.
A watcher or guard; sentry.
sep·!ic (sep/tik) adj.
Of. having to do with. caused by or causing
infection: a septic wound.
sep·uJ·cher (sep/al·kar) n.
A tomb.
Spelling tjp: This word is also spelled sepul­
chre.
se.ren·j·ty (ai·ren/a·te) n., se.ren.j·tles pI.
1 Repose; peacefulness: His manner was one
of great serenity. 2 Clearness; brightness: the
serenity of an arctic night.
serf (surf) n.
A person bound in servitude to the owner of
the land he works on, as in feudal England.
se.ri·ous (sir/e·as) adj.
1 Grave and earnest in feeling; thoughtful:
He was so serious that no one believed he had a
8~n8e of humor. 2 Not ironical or lying;
smcere: A.re you serio!,s? 3 Of grave impor.
tan!!e; welghl~: a senOU8 problem; a serious
acctden!.-se rl.ous.ly adv.; se'ri.ous.ness n
Syn. 1 Bober. 2 in earnest.
Ant. 1 frivolous, flighty. 2 joking, ironic.
1\ unimportant, minor.
ser·rat·ed (ser'at.ad) adj.
Toothed or notched like a saw: !rIost rOBes
have serrated leave8.
ser·vile (sOr/vI\) adj.
1 Like.a. slave: slavish: a servile employee.
2 Pertammg to or appropriate for slaves or
servants: servile e,Hployment.-ser.vil.Hy
(sur·vol/a·te) n.
horror when she saw the corp"e.
Syn. 1 fawning, abject.
siege (sej) n.; v. sieged. ~icg·ing
ses·a·me (ses/a·me) n.
1 An East Indian plant. 2 The seeds of this
plant, used as food and as a source of a pale
yellow oil. . pleasant illness or diftlculty: a siege of the jl1<.
sev·er·al (aev'ar·al) adj.
1 Being of un indefinite number, not lurge
but more than two: Several people eame ll"P to
ask for an antograph. 2 Considered indiVidu­
ally; pertaining to an individual' single'
separate: They went their several way~.-sev' ~
er.al.ly adv.
sham.bles (sham'balz) 11.
1 A slaughterhouse. 2 Any scene of extensive
destruction or disorder: 'J'he room was a
shambles after the fiflht.
I!sage: Shambles IS usually treated as a
singular noun.
sheaf (shel) n., sheaves (shevz) pl.
A bundle of objects, especially stalks of cut
grain, usually tied together: a sheaf of barley;
a sheaf of papers; a sheaf of arrows.
sheik (shek) n.
The head of all Arab tribe or clan.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled sheikh.
sign
shlel.lac (sh~·lak/) n.; v. shel·lackcd, .shcl.la<:k.
ng
n. 1 A purified resinous material in the form of
thin ~akes. 2 A solution ~olltainillg this
material used as a protective coating on
wood.
v. 1 To cover with shellac. 2 To defeat
utterly.
shil.le·lagh ("hi·la/le) 11.
In Ireland, a thick club of oak or blackthorn.
shin.in~ (shi·ning) adj.
1 EmItting or reflecting a continuous light·
IUl.n~nous: shining morning face. 2 Of unusuai
brllhance or excellence; consVicuous: a
shining example 10 us all.
shoal (sho\) n., v.
n. 1 A school of fish:. a shoal of herring. 2 An
assemblage or multitude; throng: Visitors
came to the house in shoals.
Syn. n. 2 crowd.
sboe \shoo) n., shoes (shooz) pl.; v. sho,d
shoe.mg
n. 1 An outer covering for the human foot.
2 Something resembling a shoe in position or
use, as a horseshoe.
v. '1'0 furnish with shoes.
show Isha) v. showed, shown or showed,
show.mg;lI.
v. 1 To cause or permit to see or be seen:
. They showed 111e their doy; She showed great
talent. 2 To exvlain something; teuch: Please
show me how to solve this puzzle.
n. An entertainment or performance: a TV
show.
shriek (shrek) II., v.
n. A sharp, shrill, generally uncontrollable
outcry or scream: a ~hriek iii the night; a shriek
of laug hter.
v. To utter such a wild cry: She shrieked in
n. 1 The act of surrounding a fortifled place
with the object of capturing it. 2 A steady
attempt to win something. 3 A time of un­
11. '.r:o try to capture, win, or gain something;
beSIege.
sieve (siv) II.
A utensil or upparatus for straining or sifting
consisting of a cylindrical container with ~
bottom of wire mesh. etc.
sign (Sin) n., v.
n. 1 A motion or action used in"tead of words
to convey information or show respect: She
made a sigll to lite 'lVaiter to bring iJ.e check. 2 A
written mark having an arbitrary meaning:
the plus Wid min1<s signs. 3 A board, placard,
or other repre~entation containing informa­
tion of some kind: a street sign; <1 neon sign.
4. Any indication, trace, or evidence of a
condition, state, etc.: signs o/poverty; siyn 0/ a
struggle. 5 An omen, fortent, or miraculous
occurrence. 6 Any 0 the twelve divisions
of the zodiac.
11. 1 To write one's signature on: to sign a
contract. 2 To engage by obtaining the signa­
689
 ~:AP

-~
.~

.~
significant sluice .~
ture to a contract: to sign a new player. 3 To sin·u·ous (sin'loo.as) adj. '!!!!!!III,

communicate by gesture. Characterize by bends, curves. or folds;

sig.nif·i·cant (sig·nU'a·kant) adj. winding; undulating: the sinuous curves of a

1 Having a meaning: The porpoise was uttering python.

apparently significant sounds. 2 Conveying or site (sit) n.

having a more or less hidden meaning: a I Place of location; site of the battle. 2 A plot
significant glance. 3 Important; momentous: of ground set apart for some specific use: a
a mgnificanl event.-slg.nif'j.cance n., sig.nIC'­ building site.
i·cant.ly adv. Spelling tip: Don't confuse this word with

SYl\. 1 meaningful, indicative. 2 suggestive, cite or sight.

expressive. 3 notable, weilthty. sit·u·at·ed (sich'oo·a'tid) adj. ~

Ant. 1 meaningless. 3 ummportant, insignifi­
cant.
sil·hou·ette (ail'oo·et') n.; v. sil·hou.et·ted, sll.
hou.et.ting .
n. 1 A portrait of a person with only the skep·tic (skep'tik) n.
outline of the profile described, usually filled
in with black. 2 The outline of a person or
thing seen against a light or a light back­
ground.
v. To cause to appear in silhouette: He was
silhouetted against the Bun light.
silt (silt) n.
Earthy sediment suspended in and carried
by water.
sim·j·an ( sim'iHm) adj., n.
ad:j. Pertaining to, resembling, or character­
istic of apes and monkeys: He had a simian
appearance.
n. An ape or monkey.
aim·i·le (sim'a·I!!) n.
A figure of speech ex.pressing comparison or
likeness by the use of such terms as like, as,
so, etc.
I
SLm·pli·fy (sim'pla·fi) v. sim.pli.fied, sim.pli·fy.
jng . Usage: Slander is spoken defamation. libel
I Placed in a specified position: The house is I
situated near Ihe shore. 2 Placed in certain
circumstances or conditions: He is well ~
siluated.-sit'u·a'tion n.
C!'!!!!!.
lOne who doubts the truth of any particular l
philosophical or religious doctrine, scientific
theory. etc. 2 One who habitually doubts or ~
is temperamentally prone to doubting the
truth of something affirmed: lIe was such a ~
skeptic that he would check for hinUJelf when I
lold that the 81'n had risen.-skep'ti.cal adj.
skit·tish (skit'ish) adj. ~
1 Easily frightened; nervous: a skit/ish horse.
2 Capricious; uncertain; unreliable: She is ~
100 skittish to be trusled with an important I
assignment.-skit'tish .Iy adv.
slan·der (slan'dar) n., v.
~
I
n. 1 A false statement maliciously made to
injure someone's reputation: '1'0 say that he ~
was a thief would be a slander. 2 In law. an 1
oral false statement causing damage to a
person's reputation, means of livelihood, etc. ~
v. To utter a slander about someone.
:""!!t

To make more simple.-sim'pli·f!.ca'tion, written. I

sim'pli.ft'er n. Syn. n. 1 calumny, defamation, lie. v. defame.

slea·zy (sle'ze) adj, slea·zi·er, slea·zi·est ~

sim·u·late (sim'ya·liit) v. sim·u·!at·ed. sim·u. I
!at·lng 1 Lacking firnmess of texture or poorly made;
To pretend; feign: an opossum simulating the flimsy: a sleazy coat. 2 Cheap, shoddy, or ~
appearance of death. . run-down: a sleazy neighbor/lOod. I
SYl\. counterfeit, imitate. sleek (slek) adj. ~
si·mul.ta·ne.ous (sl'maHii'ne·as) adj. Smooth and glossy; polished: sleek hair.­ I
Occurring, done, or existing at the same sleek'ly adv.

time: Arttficial snow is formed by the simul­ sloth (sloth) n.

~
taneous ejection of compressed air and waler. 1 Disinclination to exertion; habitual

-si'mul.ta'ne·ous.ly adv.; ai.mul·ta.ne.i·ty indolence; laziness: Sloth is one of the seven

(sj'maHa·ne'a·ti'l) n. deadly sillS. 2 A slow-moving, tree~dwelling

sin·cere (sin.sir') adj. sin·cer.er, sin·cer·est mammal of tropical America that hangs

I Real; genuine: with sincere regret. 2 Free upside down from branches and sleeps most

from hypocrisy; honest; faithful: a sincere of the day.

friend.-sin.cere'jy adv. slough (slou) n.

ai·ne-cure (si'na·kyoor) n. 1 A place of deep mud or mire; bog; swamp.

An office or job involving little or no work 2 A state of moral depravity or despair.

and usually paying well. slov·en (sluv'.>Il) n.

sine qua non (sl'n!! kwil non') Latin One who is careless of dress or uIltidy; one

That which is indispensable; an essential: habitually untidY.-Ijloy'en·ly adj.

Riches are becoming a sine qua non for

slug.gard (slug'ard) n.

running for public office.

Someone habitually lazy or idle.

:j!:tymology: Sine qua non means literally

Syn. Idler, lazybones, drone.

without which not.

sluice (8100s) n.; v. slUiced. sluic·ing
singe (sinD ,. singed. slnge.lng 11. An artificial waterway equipped with a

To burn slightly or superficially, as when valve or gate for regulating the flow.

removing feathers Of the ends of hairs; v. To drench or wash down with water: to

seorch. sluice a concrete fioor.

(l90
smug sovereign

smug (smu~) adj. smug.ger, smug.ges! sol·u·ble (sol'ya.bal) adj.

Characterized by self-satisfaction or com­ 1 Capable of being dissolved in a liquid:
placency: a smug 8uf,porteT of the best causes; Sugar is soluble in waler. 2 Capable of being
a smug look.-smug Iy ad».; smug'ness n. solved or explained: a soluble problem.
so·bri.quet (so'bri·kli) n. so·Iu·Holl (sa.lOo'shan) n.
A nickname. 1 A mixture formed by dissolving one or
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled soubri­ more substances in another: a gaU-and-wa/er
quet. solulian. 2 The act or process of making such
soc·cer (sok'ar) n.
a mixture. 3 The act or proceso of solving a
A form of football in which the ball is kicked
difficulty. doubt, problem, etc. 4 The answer
or struck with the body or head toward the
to a problem.
opponent's goal.
sol· vent (sol'vant) adj., n.
so.ci·ol.o.gy (sO'sll·ol'a·je or 80'she·ol ' ,,·je) n. adj. 1 Having enough money to pay one's
The study of human society, dealing with debts: a solvent person. 2 Having the power
crime, marriage, education, etc.-so'ei·ol'o. of dissolving: Water is 11 solvent agent.
gist n. n. A substance capable of dissol villg other
soC·ten (sof'an or sof'an) u.
substances: lVater is a solvent of sult.
To make or become soft or softer.
som·bre·ro (sum-brar'o) n., som·bre.ros pl.

so.journ (v. so'jiirn or sO·jurn'; n. sO'jurn) 11., n.

A broad-brimmed hat, usually of felt, much

II.To stay or dwell temporarily; live for a time.

worn in Spain, Latin America, and the south­

n. A temporary residence or stay.--so'journ. western United States.

er n.
som·nam·bu·list (oom·nam'bYi.l·list) n.

sol· ace (sal'is) n.; v. sol.aced, sol·ac·jng

A person who walks in his sleep.-som.nam'­

n. Comfort in grief, trouble, or calamity; also,

bu·lism n.

that which supplies such comfort: He found

so·no.rous (sa·nor'as or son'ar·as) adj.
solace in reading.
1 Loud and full-sounding; resonant: a
v. To comfort or cheer in trouble, grief, or
sonorous voice. 2 Impressive in quality, effect,
calamity.
style, etc.: a gOr/OTm.s speech.-so·no'rous.ly
8yn. v. console.
adv.
sol·der (sod'ar) n., v. soothe (sOo bIl) v. soothed, sooth.jng
n. A fusible metal or alloy used for joining 1 '1'0 restore to a quiet or normal state; calm:
metallic objects. He soothed the restive cullle. 2 1'0 miligate,
11. To unite or repair with solder.
soften, or relieve: She triod to suothe his gr'ief.
sol·dier (sol'jar) n., v.
soph·o.more (sof'a·mOr) n.
11. 1 A person serving in an army, especially A second-year student of an American high
an enlisted man. 2 One who serves loyally in school or college which has a four-year course.
any cause. so·po·rif·ic ( so'p".rif'ik, sop'a.rif'ik) adj., n.
v. '1'0 be a soldier: fie soldiered in the Thirty adj. Causing or tending to cause sleep: a
Years' lVar. soporific story.
sol·emn (sol'em) adj. n. A medicine that produces sleep.
1 Arousing grave or serious thought; impres­ sot·to vo·ce (soi'o vo'chil)
sive; awe-inspiring: 80lemn mU8ic. 2 Grave; Softly; in an undertone.
serious; earnest: a solemn face. 3 Character­
ized by ceremonial observances; religious; sour·fie (sOo'fla ' ) 11.
sacred: Good Friday is a solemn day for A light, baked dish made flulTy with beaten
Christiuns.-sol'emn.ly ado. egg whites combined with the yolks, and
often having cheese, mushrooms, or other
so·lic·it (se·lis'it) v. ingredients.
To ask or ask for earnestly: to Bolicit money
for a church.-so.lic'i.ta'tlon, so.lie'l·tor n. soup.~on (sOop·son') n.
A minute quantity; a taste: .4 soupcon of salt
so·liI·o·qUY (sa·lil'a·kwe) n., 8o.lil·o·qules pl. added to the soup :made the difference.
1 A talking to oneself; monologue. 2 In a 8pe \ling lip: 'fhe dilficulty here is the c
play, a speech made by an actor to reveal his pronounced as s.
thoughts to the audience but not to the other
actors. source (sMs Or sors) 11.
1 The spring or fountain from which a stream
so·lo (50 ' 10) n., 80·los pI., adj., adv.; v. so.loed, of water proceeds. 2 A person or thing from
so.lo·lng which information is obtained or from which
n. 1 A musical composition or passage for a.
something originates.
singJe voice or Instrument. 2 Any perfor­

mance accomplished alone.

sou·ve·nir (sOo'va,nir') n.
adj. 1 Composed or written for, or executed
Something that is kept as a reminder of a
by, a single voice or instrument. 2 Done by
person, place, or event.
a single person: a solo ftiglli.
8yn. memento, remembrance.
ado. Without another person; alone: to fly
sov·er.eign (suv'ron) n., "dj.
solo.
11. Monarch; ruler.
v. To fly an airplane alone, especially for the
adj. l Having supreme authority or power: a
first time.-so'lo·ist n.
sQvcruign prince. 2 Free; independent; not

691
 ~
~
.~
~
.~

~
•
4
sovereignty stabilizer
~
limited by external authority: a sovereign lion's body, who killed those unable to guess

state.-sov' er·elgn.ly adv. her riddle. 3 A statue of a sphinx.

~.
sov·er.eign.ty (sov'ran.te) n., liov·er·eign.ties spin·et (spin'it or spi.nee) n.
pI.

1 Supreme power or authority. 2 A sovereign

1 A small musical instrument like a harpsi­

chord. 2 A low upright piano. ~
state or similar political entity. 3 The status
sponge (spunj) n.; v. sponged, spong·ing
or dominion of a sovereign.
.~
n. 1 A simple water animal with a highly

span.gle (spang'gol) n.; v. span'gied, span. porous body which lives in colonies. 2 The
~
gUng skeleton of certain of these animals, used for j
n. 1 A small bit of sparkling metal, plastic, bathing, washing, etc., because of its power
etc., used for decoration, as in a theatrical to absorb liquids; also, some other sub­ ~
costume. 2 An;! small sp'arkJing object. stances sO used. l
v. To adorn With or as If with spangles. v. I To wipe, wet, or clean with a sponge.
2 Informal To get something without cost ~
spate (spat) n. 4
A sudden or vigorous outpouring: a apate of at the expense of others,
words; a spate of feeling. spon·sor (spon'sar) n. ~
4
spawn (splln) n., v. I A person who makes himself responsible
n. I The eggs of fishes, amphibians, mollusks, for another person or thing; the sponsor of a ~
etc. 2 The offspring of any animal.
new bill in Ihe Senate. 2 A godparent. 3 A l
t>. 1 '1'0 produce spawn. 2 'ro give rise to;
business firm that assumes all or part of the
originate: cri-minals spawned in the ghettos
costs of a radio or television program ad ver­ ~
of pur cities.
tising its products.--spon'sor·shlp n. t
speak (spek) v. spoke, spo.ken, speak.lng spo.rad.jc (spll·rad'ik) adj, ~
1 To say words; talk. 2 To express or eonvey Occurring from time to time; occasional: I
ideas, opinions, etc., in this way; to apeak sporadic appearances; We received reports of ~
one's -mind. 3 To make a speech. " To use or sporadic fighting.-spo.rad'i·caJ.ly adv. I
be capable of using a language in conversa­ spor.!ive (spor'tiv) adj.

tion; She speaks French fluently. Relating to or fond of sport or play; frolic­
~
spe·cial·ty (spesh'ol·te) n., spe.cial·ties pl. some: a sportive disposition.-spor'live.ly I
I A special occupation, craft, or study:
Pediatrics is his specialty. 2 The condition of
adv. ~
Syn. playful, merry, gay.

being special or of having peculiar character­ sprock·et (sprok'lt) n.

istics. 1 A projection, as on the rim of a wheel, for ~

I
spe· de (ape'she) n.
engaging with the links of a chain. 2 A wheel
Coined money; coin.
bearing such projections.
spec·i·men (spes'a·mon) n. spume (spy60m) n.; v. spumed, spum.ing
One of a group, or a part of something, taken n. Froth, as on an agitated or effervescing

as a sample of the whole: a specimen of fish; liquid; foam: scum.

a specimen oj blood. v. To foam; froth.

spe·cious (spe'shas) adj. spu·rj.ous (spyoor'e·as) adj.

Apparently good, right, or true, but actually Not !;enuine; false; illegitimate; a spurious

not so: SpedOU8 reasoning. painltng.

spec·tac.u.lar (spek.tak'ya.lar) adj. squab·ble (skwob'vl} v. squab· bled, S(IUab.

adj. Displaying unusual, excitmg, or un­ bUng; n.

expected qualities, conditions, etc.: a v. To have a petty argument or quarrel;

spectacular rescue.-spec·tac'u·lar.ly adv. They squabbled occasionally, but it was nothing

spec·ta·tor (spek'tiHar) n. serious.

A person who is present at and watches some n. A pett.y argument or quarrel.

action or event, as a show, game, etc., with­ squan·der (skwon'dar) v.

out taking part in it. To spend money, time, etc., wastefully;

Syn. onlooker, bystander, observer.

dissipate; He squandered u·way his enllre

speech (spech) n. fortune.-squall'der·er n.

1 The ability to expresa thought and emotion

by spoken words; the power of speakin~: He squir.rel (skwo.r'ulJ n.

lost his speech. 2 The act of speaking. 3 fhat A small tree-dwelling rodent having a long

which is spoken, as conversation, a saying or bushy tail and feeding chiefly on nuts.

remark, or a public address or talk. 4 A char­ sta· bj·lize (~ta'bJ·liz) v. sta.bj.Jjzed, sla·hi·liz.

acteristic way of speaking: His speech is loud ing

and unpleasant. I '1'0 make firm or stable. 2 '1'0 keep from

sphinx (sfingks) n., sphinx.as or sphin.ges changing or fiuctuating: to stabilize prices.

(sfin'jez) pI. 3 To secure or maintain the equilibrium of a

I In Egyptian mythology, a wingless monster ship or aircraft by means of a stabilizer.

with a lion's body and the head of a man. sta·bi·nz·er (stli'ba.Jl'zi.lr) n.

fam, or hawk. 2 In Greek mythology, /I A device or construction serving to Iltabilize a

winged monstef with a woman's head lind a ship or aircraft.

692
staccato
stac·ca·to (sta·kil'to) adj., adv., n., stac.ca.tosstat· ute (staeh/ar) 71.
aPdl.J.. H aVlllg
. or prod "1
uelng h'
8} ence t roug,l
most of the written time value of each musical
note; very short or detached.
adv. In a staccato manner; Play that part
staccato.
n. A staccato style or passage.
stag.nan! (stag/nant) adj.
1 Standing still; not flowing: stagnant water; sta·tus quo (sla't<Js kwo or stal'oS kwo)
stagnant air. 2 Foul from standing still, as
water. 3 Dull; sluggish: a stagnant mind.­
stag/nant.ly adv.
staid (atM) adj.
Steady and sober; sedate; modest: staid
behav'IOr.
sta.lac·tite (sta·lak/m) n.
A long, tapering formation hanging from the
roof of a cave, produced by continuous
watery deposits containing certain minerals,
especially calcium carbonate.
sta·lag.mite (sla·lag'mit) n.
A column, usually cylindrical or conical, on
the floor of a cave, the counterpart of a
stalactite, often fusing with it.
stal.wart (stol'wart) adj., n.
adj. 1 Strong and brawny; robust. 2 Resolute;
determined; unwavering. 3 Brave; courage­
ous: a stalwart warrior.
n. A stalwart person, as an uncompromising sle·nog.ra·plly (sL,,·nog'ra·fe) n,
partisan in politics.-stal'wart.ly adv.
stam·j·na (stam'a·na) n.
Physical or moral capacity to withstand
hardship or difficulty; vitality; vigor;
strength.
stan·chion (stan'shan) n.
An upright bar that forms the main support
of a window, roof, etc.
stat·jc (stal'ik) adj., n.
adj. 1 At rest; dormant; not active, moving,
or changing: static clouds. 2 Of or having to do
with forces in equilibrium or to bodies at rest. ste·ve·dore (ste'va·dor) n.
n. A disturbance, as in radio or television re­
ception, caused by atmospheric or manmade
electrical interference; also, the noise pro­
duced by this.
sta·tion·ar.y (sta'shan.er'tl) adj.
Remaining in one place; fixed: stationary
equilJment.
Usage: Do not confuse this word, which is an
adjective, with stationery.
sta·tion.er.y (sta/shan·er'e) n.
Writing paper and envelopes; also, material
used in writing, as pens, pencils. etc.
sla·tis·lies (st",·tb'tiks) 11.1'1.
1 The science of collecting, classifying, and
tabulating numerical facts in order to use
them as a basis to obtain information about
Borne subject. 2 The numerical facts or the
information obtained: Statistics SMW that air
falalities are fewer titan auto fatalitics.
stat·ue (stach'Oo) n.
A representation, as of a person or animal, in
marble, bronze, ete.
stimulant
1 Heij!;ht, as of a person: Although lie was
slight 17! stature, he was very strong. 2 Develop­
ment; growth: moral stature.
sta·tlls (sta/tas or stat'"s) n.
1 State, condition, or relation: 1'he stutus of
the economy is bad. 2 Relative position or
rank.
The state of affairs existing at a specified
time: to 'IIwinlain tlte slalu8 QUo.
stein (stin) n.
A beer mug, as. of earthenware.
Btel·lar (stel'ar) adj.
1 Of or pertaining to t.he stars: the silvery
slellar gi{)w of summer skies. 2 Of or pertain­
ing to a prominent actor or actress or other
per.on in the arts: a stellar role in a muvie.
SYll. 1 astral, starry. 2 star, leading, famous.
stell·cil (sten'sal) II.; v. slen·ciled or sten.
cilled. slen.cil·ing or sten.eil.ling
n. 1 A sheet, usually of paper, in which a
pattern is cut by means of spaces or dots,
through which applied paint or ink pene­
trates to a surface beneath: to cut ihe outline
of!.l flower into a stencil. 2 A decoration or the
like produced by the use of a stencil.
P. To mark with a stencil.
The art of "'Titing by the use of contractions
or arbitrary symbols; shorthand; also, the
transcription of shorthand notes.-""ste'nog /•
ra.pher tL; sten·o,graph·ic (sten'".graf'ik)
adj.; slen'o.graph'i.cul.!y u<lu.
sten·to·ri·an (sten·tar/e·an or stell·to're.an)
adj.
Extremely loud: the drill sergeant'o stentorian
voice.
Syn. deafening, thunderous.
Ant. soft, low, weak.
A person whose occupation is loading and
unloading cargoes of .hips in port: The
stevedores unloaded the cargo of ntuchiHcry.
Syn. longshoreman.
slig·ma (stig'ma) n., stig·mas or stig.ma.ta
(stig.mii't" or stig'ma·ta) pI.
1 A mark of disgrace or shame: lhe stigma
of having been in prison. 2 The wounds that
Christ received during the Passion and
Crucifixion; also, marks on the body corre­
sponding to those wounds, said to be miracu­
lously impressed on certain persons.
sti·let·to (sti.let'0) n., ali·lel.los sti.let.toes
pI.
1 A small dagger wilh a slender blade, 2 A
smUll, sharp-pointed instrument used to
puncture eyelets in clul h lha 1 iM to be em­
broidered.
stim.u·lant (stim'yu·iilllt) n.
1 Something that increases or speeds up
activity of the body, as a drug: Caffeine is a
general sti'mulant; a cardiac stimulant. 2 An
alcoholic beverage.
693
 ~
.f!!!!!!!I.
~
•

l!!!!!!!.
•
stimulus subjugate t
~
stim·u·tus (stim'ya·las) n .• stim.u·1i (stirn'ya· stren·u·ous (stren'yOO·as) adj. 4
lr) pl. Requiring strong effort or exertion: slrenuous ~
t Anything that produces a response in some exercise.-slren'u·ous.ly adv.; slren'u·ous· t
part of the body: Pavlov's dog responded to ness n.
the stimulus of the bell by drooling. 2 Anything
that rouses the mind or spirits; incentive;
Syn. arduous, laborious.
Ant. easy, simple, light.
~
~
Ambition is the stimulu. that makes him work sld·at·ed ("tri'ilt.Jd) adj.
so hard. Having stripes or parallel grooves rese!nbling
stint (stint) v., n. stripes: a striated surface; striated muscle ~
v. To limit the amount or share of; to be tissue.-ostri'ate V.; stri·a'tioll n. t
stingy with: Don't stint yourself. Syn. striped, veined, furrowed, streaked.
n. A task or fixed amount of work to b"
strict (strikt) adj. ~
performed or a period of time spent doing a
1 Enforcing or observing harsh rules or t
task or kind of work: his stint in the army.­
absolute obedience to rules: a strict discipli­ ~~
stinl'ing'!r adD.
nari(w; a strict curfew. 2 Exact, complete, or
Syn. v. skimp, grudge, deny. n. joh.

Ant. v. indul1:;e, pamper, surfeit.

precise: the strict trull,; strict "c'crecg; in the

strict sense of the 1Vord.~ stricl'ly adu.;
•
C\!!!!!!!I
sti.pend (sU'pend) n.
slrict'ness 1•• 4
A regular, fIxed allowance, salary. or pension.
sld·dent (strid'nt or strid'ant) adj. e'!!!!.
stir.rup (Stltr'0P or stir'up) n. Having or makillg a high, harsh sound; 4
An illverted, U-shaped piece of metal, shrill and grating: the fishwife's stri(len! voice.
leather, or wood with a flat footpiece, sus­ ~blri'den.cy n.; slri'denl.ly ad.'. ~
pended from a horse's saddle to support the
rider's foot.
Syn. rasping, jarring.
Ant. soft, sweet, modulated. ~
•
sto·gy (slO'ge) n., sto.gies pl. slrik·ing (sLrl'king) adj. 4
Compelling attention; eye-catching and
A long. slender, inexpensive cigar: to smoke a
atogy. impressive: a strikinu wuman.-" strik'illg·!y ~
Spelling lip: This word is also spelled stogie
or stagey.
adv.
Syn. outstanding, arresting, imposing.
~
•
Ant. inconspicuous, undiscernible.
I
stol·id (stol'id) adj.
Ha ving or showing little or no emotion or slrych.nine (strik'nin Or "trik'nen) u.
An extremel), pdisOllOllS (Irug lIsed in small ~
sensitivity: a dull, stolid m(w.·-tllol'id·ly adv.; I
slo·lid'i·ty. sloVid·ness n. doses as a stmmlant or tunic.
SYI"!. phlegmatic, unresponsive, insensitive. Spelling tip: This word is also spelled "trych­ ~
Ant. passionate, intense, volatile. nino I
stop (stop) v. stopped, stop.ping; n. :;..s.
stul.ti·fy (stul'tJ·fi) v. slul·Ii·lied, slul.IUy·jug
To make worthlesB or itwffcelual; frtl>,(rate;
v. 1 To come to a halt or make gomethinl(
1
cume to a halt; to cuas," or arrest motion or
invalidate: The sys/till lends tu stultify uur
progress: lIe slopped 10 rest; The bus stopped;
effurts to effect changes. ~
to slop <l cilr. 2 '1'0 cease doing sometillng;
Syn. nullify, blunt, dull, paralyze.
I
quit: to stop talking. 3 '1'0 prevent the doing
Ant. vitalize, stir, enliven.

or completton of: to stop a revulutiun.

stu·pe·fy (st60'p,}.fj ur styuo'pu·fj) c. slu·IlC.
n. 1 A place where something stops: " bus
Bcd, stu'pe.fy·illg
stop. 2 The aet or state of stopping.
To dull the Senses or facullies of; stUll: lu be
Syn. v. 2 discontinue. 3 end, arrest. n. 1 termi­
stupefied by a blow.-stu'pe.fac'lion n.
nus. 2 end, pause. standstill, termination.
Syn. daze, bewilder, flabbergast.
strait (striH) n.
1 A narrow passage of water connecting two
larger bodies of water: The Strait of Magellan
across South America connects the Atlantic
and Pacific. 2 (of len pl.) A position of diffi­
culty or distress: 10 be in financial struit$.
Syn. 2 predicament, jam, plight.
strat·a·gem ( strat'a,jam) n.
A trick or ruse to win a battle, outwit an
opponent, or obtain something by misleading
or deceiving; a crafty maneUV0r: a stratugc)Il
10 lure the enemy troop;; inlo an ambush.
Syn. wile, subterfuge, dodge.
stra·tum (stra'tam or strat'am) n., stra·ta
(stra'ta or strat'a) or slra·turns pi,
A layer, bed, or level: a stratum of prehistoric
remains; the lower stmta of society.
strength.en (strengk'than or streng' than) v.
To make or become strong or stronger; The
enemy strengthened their defen.e.
~
~
~
~
~
Ant. sensitize, alert.
sty·lus (stl'l,)s) II., sly.lus·es (sU'IGs,;z) or sly.
li (sti'll) pI.
1 A pointed instrument for marldng or
engraving, as on carbons, stencils, etc.: to cut
lines into a slendlwilh a stylus. 2 A phono­
graph needle.
bly·mie (:;H'me) v. sIY'lllied, ",Iy·my.illg
To block or baffle: 'i'he problem had him
stYfllierl.
Spelling lip: Tlds word is also sp.,jled "tymy.
Syn. thwart. frustrate.
Ant. help, assist, advance.
suave (swav) adj.
Having a smooth. urbane manner; pleasantly
polite: the tactfull/ess of a suave diplomat.­
suave'ly at/v., suave/ness. ~uav'i·ly n.
sub·ju·gate (.ub'jilO·gat) tI. sub.ju.gat.ed. sub·
ju.gat.ing
1 To impose rule or dominion over; conquer;

694

.~
-
substance
subdue: Rome subjugated much of the ancien!
world. 2 To bring under control in any way:
to 8ubjugate one's feeling8.~llub'jll.ga'tion,
Ilub'ju.ga'tor n.
sub· stance (sub'stans) n.
1 The material of which anything is made or
consists. 2 A substantial quality; solidity:
His ideas have 8ubstance. 3 'fhe esseiltial part
of anything said or written: Ihe sub~tance of a
speech.
sue·ees·sor (sak·ses'ar) n.
A person or thing that com"s after another;
~speeially, a pl'rson who succeeds to a
throne, property, or office.
sue·cinet (sak·singkt') adj.
Avoiding unnecessary words; briefly ex­
pressed: He !lave his rriews in a few succinct
8entences.~suc·clnct'ly adv.
Spelling tip: Succinct has three e's.
Syn. terse, concise, laconic.
Ant. prolix, verbose, long-winded.
Bue-eor (suk'"r) n., v.
n. Help or relief rendered in danger, difficulty,
or distress.
v. To come to the help of; give succor.
a cuplwmism for lynching. 2 Concise: " sum­
Syn. n. aid, rescue. v. support.
mary account of lhe proceedings.
sue-eumb (sa·kum') v.
1 To be overcome by force or persuasion;
yield: Poland 8uccumbed under the might of
Germany and Russia; Don't succumb
temptalion. 2 '1'0 die.
suede (swad) n.
summing up the principal points made,
A leather having a soft, velvetlike nap.
especially in a court of law.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled Buede.
sump·tu·ous (sump'choo·as) adj.
suf·liee (sa·fiS') v. suC·fieed, suC·lie.jng
'fo be sufficient or adequate; to meet the
requirements or answer the purpose: Two
chlckens will suffice if there are no marc to be
had.
sllf·li·dent ( sa·fish'ant) adj.
Being all that is necessary for a particular
purpose; adequate: That is more than BUff!·
cient.~suC.fj'cient.ly adv.
Syn. enough, satisfactory.
suf·frage (suf'rij) n.
1 The right to vote: 1'here 'Was great resistance
to woman suffrage. 2 The vote in support of
some measure or candidate: The volers gave
their suffrages to the proposal.
suf·fuse (sa·fyooz') fl. Buf·fused, suf.Cus.ing
'fo spread over, as with a vapor, fiuid, or
color: A blush suffused her cheeks; A lovely
aroma suffused Ihe room.
sug·ar (shoog'ar) n., v.
n. A sweet, crystalline substance obtained
from the juice of various plants, especially
the sugar cane and sugar beet.
v. 1 To form or produce sugar. 2 To sweeten
or make agreeable.
su·i.~i.dal (aOO'a·sid'l) adj.
10f, having to do with, or leading to self­
destruction: The attempt to climb the mountain
was suicidal. 2 Fatal to one's prosrects or
interests; ruinous: a suicidal poiltica gesture.
superlluity
suit (soot) n., v.
n. l A matched set of garments consisting of
a coat and trousers or skirt of the same
material: a tweed suit. 2 A garment for a
particular purpose: <1 space Stlit. 3 Any of the
four sets of playing cards that make up a
pack. 4 A proceeding in a court of law to
settle a claim. 5 The courting of a wuman.
v. To meet the requirements of; satisfy: It
suits all tasles; Suil yourself. 2 To make
appropriate; adapt: Suit the action to the word.
sul·ly (sul'~l v. sul·lied, sul.ly.ing
To make soiled or tarnished; besmirch; defile:
1 will not sully my lips with such words.
sul·try (sul'tre) adj. sul·tri·er. sul·tri·est
1 Hot, moist, and still; close; oppressive:
8ultr1l August days. 2 Showing or suggesting
passIOn; sensual: sultr'Y charms.
sum·ma·rize (sum'a·riz) v. sum.ma·rized.
sum.ma.r!z.ing
To make a summary of; sum up: lie sU?nma­
rized his arguments in one sentence.
sum·ma·ry ( sum'ar·e) adj.; n., sum·ma·ries pl.
adj. 1 Dispensing with details or formalities;
done with dispatch: Summary justice is often
n. Brief account; abridgment or abstract:
The onluoker gave a summary of wllat had
happened.~sum.ma'ri.lyadv.
to Bum·ma·tion (sum·ii.'shan) n.
1 Addition. 2 A speech or portion of a speech
Involving lavish expenditure; luxurious;
magnificent: Our hosl provided a sumptuous
feast.
Srn. rich, costly.
Ant. frugal, simple, plain.
sun.dry (sun'drill adj.
Of an indefinite small number; various;
miscellaneous: sundry expenditures.
Syn. divers, several.
Bu.per·an.nu·at·ed (soo'par·all'yoo.a'tid) adj·
1 Retired on account of age, especially with u
l?ension: Although superannuated, he still had
znfluence in the firm. 2 'foo old to be useful or
efficient: superannuated men trying 10 find
work. 3 Obsolete; outdated: superannuated
equipmellt.
su·per·ei!.j-ous (soo'par·sil'e.~s) adj.
Exhibitinl' contempt; arrogant: !lis supercili­
ous behavl.Or offended his /tost.
Etymology: Supercilious comes from the
Latin word meaning eyebrow suggesting the
raising of eyebrows by the supercilious.
Bu.per.li.cial (aoo'par·fish'al) adj.
lOn, near, or affecting the surface only: a
superficial wound. 2 Lackinl;; depth or pro­
fundity; shallow: a superficial person; a
superficial 'Writer. 3 Marked by partial
knowledge; slight; cursory: a superficial
analysis.-su.per.fj'ciaJ.ly adv.
su·per.flu.i·ty (soo'per.ftoo'a·te) n.
1 An unnecessary thing. 2 Excess.
695
superfluous
Bu·per.flU·OUB (s(ll)·pfu'tlao·as) adj.
More than is needed; redundant; needless:
burning superfluous corn; a superfluous
question.
Bu·per.im·pose (sao'pilr-im·p~z') 11. au.per.im.
posed, au.per.im.pos.ing
To lay or impose upon something else: lIe
had superimposed his own touches on the
painting.-~su'per.im'po.si'tion n.
su.per.in.ten·dent (sao'par·in·ten'dant) n.
1 A person whose function is to direct,
manal;'e, or supervise some pariicular work,
orgamzation, etc. 2 A janitor.
su·per.nu·mer·ar·y (sao'par·nao'ma·rer'e) n.,
su·per.nu.mer.ar.les pl.; adj.
n. 1 An extra person or thing. 2 An actor
evidence' suspicion; guess: It -was a reasonable
playing in crowd scenes.
surmise that they were not going /0 buy the
adj. Being beyond a customary or necessary
house. 2 The act of surmising; Surmise is no
number; superfluous.
substitute for evidence.
Bu·per.vise (sao'per·viz) v. su.per.vised, suo
sur.pUce (sflr'plis) n.
per.vis·ing
A loose white vestment worn over a cassock
To have charge of directing employees, a
in many churches: the choirbo'Ys in the'ir
project, etc.; superintend; oversee.
surplices.
su·per.vi·sor (sao'par·vj'zar) n.
A person who supervises or oversees; super­
intendent; inspector.-su'per.vi'so.ry adJ.
au.pine (sao'pin) adj.
1 Lying on the back with face turned
upward: 1'he boxer lay supine as he was
counted out, 2 Havinl' no interest or stamina:
The country was i5llpl1le under the invader,
sup·pie (sup'a\) adj. Bup,pler, sup·plest
1 Easily bent; pliant; flexible: a supple bow;
boots made of supple leather. 2 Readil¥
adaptable; c;lastic: a supple bUl a/mug intelh­
gence.-sup'ple,Jy adv.
Ant. 2 rigid, narrow, fixed.
sup·ple.ment (v. sup'la·ment; n. sup'la·mant)
V., n.
D. To make additions to: You can supple1nent
the rations with a bar of chocolale.
n. Something that supplements, as an
addition to a publication: The article appeared
in the Sunday supplement.
Bup·pli·cate (sup'la·kat) v. sup.pli.cat.ed, sup·
pli.cat.ing
To ask for humbly or by earnest prayer or
entreaty: to supplicate mercy.-·sup'pli.ca'­
tion n.
8yn. entreat, beseech, implore.
sup·pose (sa· paz') v. sup.posed, sup·pos·ing
1 '1'0 take for granted; assume; believe to be
true; presume: I Sl'ppose they are right; He
supposed that the earth loW' flat. 2 To assume
for the sake of argument: Suppose it isn't so?
:1'1'0 expect or require: She is supposed to make
tke beds.
sup· press (sa.pres') v.
1 To put down; quellt crush: to suppress a
rebellion. 2 To restrain; keep in; repress: to
suppress a yawn. 3 To stop or prevent
publication of: to suppress a news story.
sur,reit (sur'fit) v., n,
~. To feed or supply with too much of some·
thing; satiate: surfeited with crackers.
696
swath
n. An excessive supply of anything: a story
wilh a wr/ei/ 0/ detail.
sur·geon (sur'jan) n.
A doctor who specializes in surgery.
sur·lf (sur'Hi) adj. sur.li·er, sur.li.est
Bad-tempered; rude; gruff: a surly reply; a
surly expression on Ids /ace.-·sur'jj.Jy adv.;
sur'li·ness n.
8yn, crabbed. cross, churlish,
sur· mise (sur·miz') v. sur.mised, sur.mis·ing;
n.
v. To make a doubtful supposition or con­
jecture; guess: I surmised that she had been
talking abottt me.
n. 1 A thought or idea based on slight
sur·plus (sOr'plus) n.
An amount or quantity above that required
for a particulat' purpose; excess: The surpltls
will be given to charity.
sur·rep·ti·tious (sQr'ap·tish'i}s) adj.
Done or acting secretly; underhand; clan­
destine: a surreptitious meeling.-sur'rep.
ti'tious.lyadv.
8yn. secret, furtive.
Ant. open, struightforward, plain.
sur·ro·gale (sOr'a·gat) It.
1 A substitute; deputy; The cat becmne a
surrogate for the lJWppies' motller. 2 A judge of
a court handling the probating of wills.
sur·round (sa· round') v.
To enclose; encircle: The house wus sur­
rounded by open fields.
8),11. encompass, environ.
sur·veil·lance (.dr·va'lans) 11.
Close watch kept over someone, as a prisoner
or suspect; observation: The suspected shop­
li/ter was kept under surveitlance.
sus·pense (sa·spens') n.
An uncertain or douutful situation or
condition: The movie had plenty of suspense.-­
sus.pense'ful adj.
sus.pi.cious (sa·spish'vs) adj.
Ilnclillcd to suspect: a s1,spicious wan. 2 Apt
to arouse suspicion; 4 uestiona ble: a s1l81Jiciolls
move. 3 Indicating suspicion: H suspicious
expr""sion ... --su»·pi'cious.ly adv.
sus·le·ual1ce (,Us'tv'Hons) n.
Something that support; life or strength;
food.
Syn. nourishment.
svelte (svelt) Quj.
Slender: slim; willowy: a svdte fignre,
swath ( swoth) n.
A line or ridge of grass, grain, etc., as CUt
down by a mowing device.
swathe
swathe (swath) II. swathed. swath.jng
To bind or wrap. as in bandages; 10 swaille a
child in a blanket.
swel·ter (swel'tar) v.
To suffer from oppressive heat; perspire;
sweat.
sye.o.phallt (sik'a·fant) n.
A person who uses flattery to gain favor;
parasite.
Syn. uncommunicative.
Syn. toady.
Ant. communicative, talkative.
syl·la.ble (aWa·bal) n.
A word or part of a word that can be
uttered by a single vocal effort: The word
"8yllable" has three syllables.
syl·la·bus (sil'a·bas) n., syl·!a.bus.es or syl.la.
bi (sil'e·bi) pl.
2 Any means to gain an objective; methods:
A brief summary of the main points of a
lie got his way by clever taclic8.--tac'ti·cal adj.
course of study, subject, etc.
tac·tile (tak'til or tak'tal) adj.
sym.bol (sim'bal) n.
An emblem or sign representing something
else: The flag is a symbol of our C()untry.
8ym.pho.lI)' (sim'fa·nll) n., sym·pho.nies pI.
I A composition for an orchestra. consisting
usually of four movements. 2 A symphony
orchestra. 3 An agreeable blend of sounds,
colors, etc.: a symphony in gray.
sym·po·sj·um (sim·po'ze·am) n., sYlll.po.si.
urns or sym.po.sj·a (aim·po'ze·a) pI.
I A meeting to discuss a particular subject.
2 A collection of comments or opinions on the
same subject. as in a magazine.
symp·tom (sim'tam) n.
A sign, token, or indication of the existence
of something, especially. an indication of the
presence of disease.
syn.ehro·nous (sin'kr"'n"s) adj.
Occurring or moving at the same time or
speed; coincident; simultaneous: synchronous
heartbeals.
syn·od (sin'<ld) n.
A regional church council called together to
discuss matters of church doctrine and
discipline.
BYI1·o·nym (sin''''nim) n.
A word that has the same or almost the same
meaning as some other.
sy.non·y·mous (ai-non'a·mas) adj.
Equivalent or similar in meaning.-sy.non'.
y.my n.
syn·the·sia (sin'th,,·sis) n., syn·the.ses (sin'.
tha·sez) pl.
tan·trum (tan/tram) n.
The assembling of separate parta into a
A fit of rage or bad temper: His lantrums are
whole.
ayr.inge (sa.rinj') n.; v. ayr.inged. syr.lng.lng
n. A device consisting of a narrow tube with
a rubber bulb at one end into which a liquid
may be drawn for ejection in a fine stream.
II. To cleanse or treat with a syringe.
-'T-~-'"~'~~'~~~'~--~~-.-.
tab·leau (tll.b'lo or ta·blrl) n., tab.leaux (tab',
IOz or tab'lo) or tab·leaus (tab'loz) P.l.
I Any picture or scene. 2 A picturehke scene
represented by silent and motionless persons
standing in appropriate attitudes.
tariff
tae·it (tas'it) adj.
Not expressed bnt underHtood: a lacit
warning.-tll.c'j(.ly adv.
Syn. silent, implied, implicit.
tac·j·turn (tas'a·tUrn) adj.
Habituallr silent or reserved; disinclined to
conversatlon.-tac'i·tur'ni·ty 11.; tac'i.tum.ly
adv.
tac·tics (tak'tiks) n.pl.
1 (Construed as singular) The science and art
of moving and handling troops in the pres­
ence of the enemy or for immediate ohject­
ives: Tactics is a subject taught at We"! Point.
Pertaining to the organs or sense of touch: a
tactile impression.
tai·lor (ta'lar) n., v.
11. A per~on who makes garments to order or
who repairs garments.
v. 1'1'0 work at or make by tailoring: 10 tailor
a coat. 2 To make, adjust, or adapt for a
sl'ecific purpose: The IUTgc-tJ(l!e, fulty
mustrated book was tailored for c}llldren.
Spelling tip: Watch the or ending.
tal·is·man (tal/is·man) n., tal·is·mans pt.
Something supposed to produce extra­
ordinary effects; a charm: She said she wasn't
superstitious, bllt she !vore his class pin as a
talisman while he was in the army.
Syn. amulet, fetish.
tal·on (tal'en) n.
The claw of a bird or other animal, especially
of a bird of prey.
tall·gi·ble (tan'ja.bal) adj.
I Perceptible by touch; also, within reach by
touch. 2 Definite; real; clear: tangible resulls.
Syn. 1 palpable, tactile.
tan·ta·lize (tan'ta·liz) v. tan·ta·lized, tan.ta.
Iiz.jng
To tease or torment by showing something
desired that is kept out of reach.
tan-ta.mount (tan'ta·mount) adj.
Having equivalent value, effect, or import;
equivalent; His decision not to defend himself
is tantamount to his political ,uicide.
very childish.
tap·es·tr)' (tap'is·tre) n., tap·es.tdes pl.
An ornamental fabric used for hangings, with
designs and pictures woven iuto it.
ta·ran·tu·la (t.)·ran'chOo·la) n., ta·ran.tu.las or
ta.rall·tu·!ae (ta·ran'chOo·le) pl.
A large, somewhat poisonous hairy spider of
southern Europe.
tar·iff (tar'if) n,
I A schedule of articles of merchandise with
the rates of duty to be paid for their importa­
tion or eXportation. 2 A duty, or duties
collectively.
Spelling tip; Wa tch the double f and single r.
697
tarpaulin
tar·pau.!in (tar'po/lin or tlir'pa·lin) n.
A waterproof canvas used to cover merchan­
dise, athletic fields, etc.
tas·sel (tas'al) n.; v. tas·seled or tas·selled,
(as.sel.jng or tas.sel.ling
n. A dangling ornament for curtains,
cushions, etc., consisting of a tuft of loose
threads or cords, or any similar object.
v. To provide or adorn with tassels.
tat· too (ta.tOO') v.; 11., lat·toos pl.
v. To mark the skin with designs, etc., by
pricking it and inserting indelible pigments.
n. A pattern or picture so made.
taw.dry (to'dre) adj.
Showy and cheap: tawdry cos/ume jewelry
from the dime store.
Syn. gaudy, garish, flashy.
tech.nique (tek·niik') n.
A method, way, or manner of doing some­
thing: new surgical techniques for heart
transplants.
~
I
teth.nol·o.gy (tek·no!'a·je) n., lech.nol.o.gies
pI
Tbe practical application of scientific knowl­
edge and industrial skills: There has been
great progress in mediealtech"ology.~-tech.no.
log.i.cal (tek'na·loj'i.kal) adj.
te·di·um (te'de·am) n.
Boredom: There was little to relieve the tedium
of his lonely days.--Ie'di.ous adj.; te'di.ous.
I,. adv.; te'di·ous·ness n. ' n. A rope, etc., used for fastening an animal
te.mer.i.ty (Ia·mer'a.te) n.
Foolish boldness; rashness: The freshman had
the temaity to question the dean's authority.
tem·per·a·m'ent (tem'par·a·mant or tem'pra·
mant) n.
A person's mental and emotional make-up:
He has a placid temperament and is not
easily upset.
Syn. uisposition.
tem.po (tem'po) n., tem·pus or tem.pi (tern'·
pi) pl.
1 In music Rate of speed: This music should
be played in a faster tempo. 2 Pace: the last
tempo 01 a big city.
tem.po.rize (tem'pa'r!z) v. tem.po.rized. tern.
po·riz·ing
To act or talk evasively so as to gain time or
postpone making a decision: The candidate
was advised to temporize until more facls were
available.
ten.den·cy (ten'dan·se) n., ten·den.cies pl.
A leaning or inclination: She has a tendency
10 gain weight during her vacations.
ten·et (ten' it) n.
An opinion, doctrine, or principle accepted
as true: Respect for the rights of others is a
tenet of most retigions.
tell·u,ouS (ten'yOO.as) adj.
}<'limsy or delicate: The old man retained
a tenuous hold on liIe.-len'n·ous.ly adv.; len'·
u.pus·ness n.
tep·id (tep'id) adj.
Slightly warm; lukewarm: a tepid bath.-tep'·
id.l,. adv.: tep'id.ness n.
698
~
thermonuclear
ter·rna·gallt (tur'ma.gant) n.
A scolding or abusive woman: Hi. wife is a
merciless ler·magant.
Syn. shrew.
ter·mi·nate (tOr'ma.nat) v. ter·mi·uat-ed. ler.
~
mi·uat·ing
To end or bound.-·ter'mi-na'tion n. ~
ter·mi.nol·o.gy (ttir'ma·no!'0·je) n., ler·mi. ~
nol.o.gies pl. 1
The technical terms used in science, art,
trade, etc.: It was difficult to understand the
legal terminology.
~
ter·rain (ta.ran') n.
An area of land: The rocky terrain surrounding ~
the camp was barren and forbidding.
Syn. territory, region. ~
terse (lurs) adj. ter·ser, ter·sest
Short and to the point: concise: a terse
comme1<t.
~
Syn. pithy, succinct.
Ant. diffuse, wordy.
tes·ta·tor (tea·ta'tar) n.
Someone who makes a will or dies leaving a ~j
will.
tes.ty (~es/te) adj. tes·li·er, tes·ii.est ~I
Irritable in manner or disposition; touchy:
The testy aUitude of the guard discouraged us,
-tes'(i.ly adv.; tcs'ti·ness n.
teth·er (teU;'ar) n., v.
and keeping it within a defined area.
v. To fasten or confine by a tether.
Usage: The- phrase at the eud of Oile'g tetlter
means at the end of one's resourc~s, patience,
etc.
the·a·ter ( the,a·tnr) n.
1 A building or place adapteu for the showing
of plays, motion pictures, etc. 2 Any place or
region that is the scene of events; a theater
of war.
Spelling lip: This word is sometimes spelled,
especially in Britain, theatre.
then (t.nen) adv.
1 At that time: I did,,'1 know your name then.
2 Soon or immediately afterward. next in
space or time: She looked at the window and
then went away. 3 In that case: 1 wilt then,
since YOIl won't. 4 Also. besides: We have 10
buy food, and then there i~ the rent to pay.
ther.a.peu.tic (tller'~.pyOO'tik) adj.
Having healing properties; curative: The sea
air is therapeutic.
ther·a·py (ther'a·pe) n., ther-a.pies pl.
The treatment of a disease or undesirable
condition.
there·fore (tll.ilr'for' or thilr'fiir') wi»., conj.
For that or this reason; on that ground or
account; consequently: lie did not rUIl fast
etlOuyh, and therefore he lost the race.
Syn. hence, accordingly, so.
ther·mo·nu·de·ar (thilr'mo·nOO'kle·0r) adj.
Pertaining to or characterized by reactiolh
involving the fusion of atomic nuclei at very
high temperatures.
thesaurus
the.sau.rUii (tha.sor'as) n., the·sau.ri (tha.
sllr'l) pl.
1 The substance of animal and plant organs
A book containing a store of words; espe­
formed by cells and cell-products: The
cially, II book of synonyms and antonyms
surgeon removed some bone tissue. 2 A light
arranged in categories.
or gauzy fabric. 3 A connected or interwoven
Etymology: Thesaurus comes, through Latin,
series; network: a tissue of lies. 4 A light,
from the Greek thesauro8, meaning treasure
absorbent paper, usually consistinl,;( of two
house, which is also the ultimate source of
or more layers, used to make dIsposable
the word treasure.
towels or handkerchiefs.
the.sis (thi:!.sis) n., the·ses (the'sez) pI.
1 A proposition to be maintained, especially
by formal argument: The thesis that all men
are equal. 2 A formal treatise on a particular
subject, especially one presented to obtain a
university degree.
though (tho) coni.
I Notwithstandmg the fact that: Though it is
windy, it is warm. 2 Even if. 8 And yet
(introducing a modifying statement added
as an afterthought).
thought·ful (tMt'fa!) adj.
I Full of thought; meditative: a thoughtful
expression. 2 Attentive; considerate: She is
thought/ul of lier friends.~·thought'ful.ly adv.,
thought'ful.ness n.
thresh·old (thresh'Old or thresh'hold) n.
1 A plank or stone lying under the door of a
building; doorsill: He carried his bride across
the threshold. 2 The entrance or beginning of
anything: at the threshold of a new era.
throes (throz) n.pl. .
1 Violent pangs, especially of childbirth or
death: She suffered the throes of a painful
delivery. 2 Any violent or agonizing .activity:
in the throes of revolution.
through (throo) prep., adv., adj.
prep. 1 Into one side, end, or point, and out
another: a bullet through the heart. 2 By means
of: I got the tickets through a friend. 8 During
the time or period of: all through his life.
adv. 1 To a termination or conclusion, espe­
cially a successful one: to pull through.
adj. Going from beginning to end without a
stop or obstruction: a through train.
thwart (thw()rt) v.
'fa prevent someone from accomplishing
something; frustrate: lie made it his bul1iness
to thwart them.
Syn. cross, foil, balk.
tby.roid (thr'roid) n.
A large gland situated in front of and on
each side of the trachea (windpipll).
H·ar.a (UHir'a) 11.
1 An ornamental semicircular band of
jewels, worn on the head by wonwn. 2 The
Pope's triple crown, worn on special occasions.
tim·bre (lim/bar or lam/bar) n.
The quality of a sound, apart from its pitch
or intensity, that distinguishes it from
another sound; tone color.
of a place.······to!l·Q·graph.ic (top' ,,·graf'ik) udj.
Spelling tip: Don't confuse timbre and
timber (lumber).
tor·na·do (tOr·na'do) n., tor.na·does or tor.na.
ti·rade (li·rad') n.
A long vehement speech, especially of
censure: Cus/ro's three-hour tirude against ihe
U.S.
tornado
tis.sue (tish'oo) n.
ti/·u·lar (tich'06·lar or tit'ya·lar) adj.
1 Existing only in name: the titular head of a
political party. 2 Of or having to do with a
title.
to·geth·er (too·gefh'ar or ta'get{j'ar) adv.
1 Into union or contact with one another: to
gather together. 2 In company or conjunction:
to live together. 8 At the same time; simulta­
neously: They u1ISwerel! together. 4 In or into
harmony or agreement: The bl1ie sofa and tan
chairs go well together.
lol·er·ance (tol'ar·ans) n.
1 Indulgence or forbearance in jUdging the
opinions, customs, or acts of others; freedom
from bigotry or from racial or religious
prejudice. 2 The ability to endure large or
Increasing amounts of a drug or poison
without ill effects.
tol·er·ant (tol'ar·ant) adj.
Showing or having tolerance: a tolerant
atlitude.-tol'er.ant.lyadv.
tomb (loom) n.
A place or struclure for the burial of the
dead, as a vault, sepulcher, or grave.
to.mor·row (ta·mor'o) adv., n.
adv. On or for the next day after today: I will
see yOl! tomorrow.
n. The next day after today: Tomorrow is
another day.
Spelling tip: Tomorrow may be spelled with
a hyphen: to-morrow.
lo.night ( ta·nlt') adv_, n.
adv. In or during the present or coming night.
n. The present or coming night.
Spelling tip: 'i'oniyM may aleo be "pelled with
a hyphen: to-night.
ton·sil·ll·tis (ton's~·li'titi) n.
Inllammation of the tonsils.-toll'sil.li'tic
adj.
too (too) adv.
1 In addition; likewise; also: Are you going
too? 2 In excessive quantity or degree: too
good to be true.
to·pog·ra·phy (t<}·pog'r..;·fe) n., IO·l'0g.ra.phieo
pl.
1 The phYoicul features of a placI;, ati the
mountains, rivers, parks, etc. 2 The art of
representing on a map the physical f"alures
dOli pl.
A whirling wind of exceptional violence,
accompanied by a fllnnel-shaped cloud
marking the narrow path of greatest destruc­
tion.
699

torpid
tor.pid (tor'pid) adj.
I Inactive, as a hibernating animal; dormant.
2 Sluggish, apathetic, dull: The heal made
us all feel torpid.-tor'pid.ly adv.; tor'l'id.i.ty
(tor·pid',,·te), lor'pid.ness n.
tor·toise (tor'tas) II.
A turtle, especially one living on land.
tor·tu·ous (tor'chOO·;)s) adj.
I With many bends and turns; twisting: We
followed a tortuous path through the swamp.
2 Not straightforward; devious: His tortuous
policy involved many lies.
to·taI·j·tar·j.an (to·taJ'i.lIir'e·an) udj.
Designating or characteristic of a govern­
ment controlled exclusively by one party or
faction, and maintained by forbidding all
other parties.
tou·pee (too·pa') n.
A hairpiece worn to cover baldness or a bald
spot.
tour·ni·quet (td1Jr'n,,·ket) n.
A device that stops the flow of blood through
an artery by compression: Une of the firSi
things she did was loosen the tourniquet.
to·ward (tord) prep.
1 In the direction of: looking iOlVard the sea.
2 With respect to; regarding: animosity
toward strangers. 3 In anticipation of: saving
toward his retirement. 4 Near: toward evening.
Spelling tip: Towards, which is common in
British usage, is not wrong.
tox·ic (tok'sik) udj.
Pertaining to or caused by poison; poisonous:
toxic fumes.-Iox'j.cal.ly adj., tox.ic'i·ty n.
trael·a·bIe (trak'tv·bal) adj.
1 Easily led or controlled; manageable: a
iractable pony; u mild and tractable child.
2 Readily worked or handled; malleable:
trans·mil (trans· mit') v. trans·mit·ted, trans·
Gold is more tractable than iron.
mit· ling
Syn. 1 docile, compliant. amenable.
1 To send from one place or person to another;
Ant. 1 obstinate, fractious, rebellious.
convey: to transmit a rnc;;sage. 2 To pass on by
trar·lie (traf'ik) n.; v. traf·licked, traf.fick.ing
n. 1 The movement or passage of vehicles,
people, ships, etc., along a route: There is a
lot of traffic on ihe roads today. 2 The business
of buying and selling; trade: the drug traffic.
v. To engage in buying or selling, especially
illegally.
trag·e·dy (traj'a·dl) n., (rag.e.dies pI.
1 A sad or fatal event; disaster. 2 A serious
or solemll play that has a sad ending.-trag'­
ic adj., trag'j.cal.ly adv.
traipse (traps) v. traipsed, traips.ing
Informal To walk about in an idle or aimless
manner: I will not allow strangers to traipse
through my home.
trait (tral) n.
A distinguishing feature or quality of char­
acter: Generosity is an excellent trait.
~ram·mel (trum'a\) 11.; v. trum.meled or tram.
melled, tram.mel·jng or tram.mel.ling
n. 1 U~ual!lI pl. Anything that limits fmodom
or activity; an impediment; hindrance: the
trammels of prejudice. 2 A shackle used in
700
~
=­
a-.
"
~
traverse ~
~I
training horses. :3 A special net for catching
fish.
v. '1'0 hinder or obstruct; restrict.
tran·qui! (trang'kwil or tran'kwil) adj.
Calm; quiet; peaceful: a trunquillife.-tran.
qui!'Ii.ty or tran.quil'j·ty n.
Syn. placid, serene, still.
tran·sient (tran'shant) adj., 11.
adj. 1 Passing away quickly; of short dura­
tion; brief: transient unger. 2 Not permanent;
temporary: a transient gue~t.
n. One who remains in a place for a short
time.
tran·sit (tran'sit) 11.
1 The act of passing over. or through;
passage. 2 The act of carrYIng across or
through; conveYilnCe: The merchandise was
smashed in transit.
tran·si.to.ry (tran'sa· LOr'e or tran's~·tor!e) adj.
Existing for a short time only: transitory
pleasure.
Syn. transient, passing, momentary.
trans·lu·cent (trans·lOu'sant) adj.
Allowing the passage of light without being
transparent: Stained gluss is us/wlly trm/./u­
cent.
Usage: A material is tramJlllccnt when it
allows some light to puss through without
giving a clear view of objeels on the other
side. It is transparent when it permits a clear
view. Opaque material is impervious to light.
trans·mis·sion (lrans·mish'an) 11.
1 The act of passing- on or sending: the trans­
7IIissi01l of malaria by 1/wsquitoes. 2 That
which i$ passed on or sent. :3 A device that
sends power from the engine of an automobile
to the driving wheels.
heredity. 3 To send out by meallS of electro­
magnetic waves, as radio broadcasts.
trans·par·ent (trans·par'ant) adj.
Admitting the passage of light and permitting
a clear view of objects beyond.
t.. a·pcze (tra·pez') n.
A short swinging bar, suspended by two
ropes, used by gymnasts, etc.
trau·ma (tro'ma or trou'mil) 11., trau·mllS or
trau.rna·tll (lro'ma·ta or trou'ma·til) 1)1.
A general condition of the body resulting
frum an injury or wound caused by shock,
violence, etc.-trau·mat'jc adj., (rau.mat'i.
cal·lyad".
trav·ail (trav'al or tI'J·yal') 11., C.
11. 1 Strenuous physical or mental labor; toil.
2 The pain of childbirth.
\'. 1 'l'o toil or labor. 2 To suITer the pains ur
childbirth.
trav·erse (trav'Jrs; for 1'. and ae/v. alsD He
vars') v. trav.erscd, tcav.crs.ing; n., adj.
v. To pass over, HCrOI'iS, or through: Ti
India118 trav"rscd the plain.
n. A part, as of a machine or struc:'~c~
treacherous
placed across another part, as a crossbeam,
trom·bone (tram' bon' or trom'bon / ) n.
transom, etc.
A brass musical instrument of the trumpet
adj. Lying or being across; transverse.
family but larger and lower in pitch than the
treach·er·ous (trech'ar·as) adj.
1 Not faithful; disloyal: a treacherous act.
2 Unreliable: a treacherous jungle trail.­
treach'er.ous.ly adv., treach'er·ous·ness n.
Syn. traitorous, false, faithless.
Ant. faithful, loyal, trusty.
treas·ure (trezh'ar) n.; v. treas.ured, tceaS·UT.
Ing
n. 1 Riches accumulated, especially in the
form of money, jewels, or precIous metals: FIe
found an old treasure buried in a cave. 2 A
person or thing that is regarded as valuable,
precious, or rare: A[y sons are my greatest
treasure.
v. I To store or hoard; accumulate. 2 '1'0
prize: He treasures his art col/ection.
treas·ur·er (trezh'ar·ar) n.
An officer of a state, city, corporation,
society, etc., who has charge of funds or
revenues.
treas·ur.y (trezh'ar·e) It.. treas·ur·ies pl.
t The place where private or public funds or
revenues are received, kept, and paid out.
2 Public or private funds; money: The e}wrch
treasury u'us prac!ically empty. 3 Any collec­
tion of treasures.
trea·Lise (tre'tis) n.
A formal and systematic written account of
some subject: a treatise on the history of steel­
makiny.
trek (trek) II.; v. trekked, trek·king
11. A journey, especially a slow one.
v. To travel, especially slowly and with
difficul ty.
tre·men·dous (tri·men'd<ls) adj.
1 Informal Extraordinarily large: a tremell­
dous airjlloliB. 2 Inforillal Unusually great;
amazing; wonderful: She is a tremendous
ac!re88.-~tre.men'dous.ly adv.
trep.j·da.!ion (trep'a·da'shan) n.
1 A state of agitation or alarm. 2 A trembling.
tres·tle (tres'al) n.
1 A beam or bar supported by four legs, used
to hold up platforms, etc. 2 An open, braced
framework used to support a railway bridge,
etc.
tri·bu·nal (tri·byOo'nill or tri·byoo'nal) n.
1 A court of justice. 2 The seat set apart for
jUdges, magistrates, etc.
tri·fie (tri/fal) n.; v. tri·lIed, tri·fIing
n. 1 Anything of little value or importance:
!o quarrel over trifles. 2 A small amount: It
cos!s only a trifte.-tri'ller n.
v. To tr"at lightly or frivolously; dally: 10
trifle with her affections.
trip.tych (trip'tik) n.
A triple picture or carving on three hinged
panels, often depicting a religious subject.
trite (trit) adj. trit.er, trit.est
trying.
Made commonplace by repetition.
try·lng (trl'ing) adj.
Syn. hackneyed, stereotyped.
Difficult: l! was a very trying lime for the
Ant. fresh, original.
family.
trying
trumpet.
tro.phy (tro'fe) n., tro.phies pI.
Something representing a victory or success:
He had many hunting trophies.
troub·le (trub'a\) n.; v. troub·led, troub·ling
n. 1 Distress; worry; suffering: He is always
in trouble. 2 Any ditliculty. perplexity, or
disturbance: She has domestic troubles. 3 Care,
attention, work: Take the trouble to do it
correctly. 4 A sick or diseased condition: heart
trouble.
v. 1 To make or become di'ltresseu or worried:
The rising prices troubled her. 2 To incon­
venience: May 1 trouble you for the sugar?
trough (tr6f) n.
1 A long, narrow, open container used to
hold food or water for animals. 2 A gutter
fixed to the roof of a house for carrying off
rainwater.
trous·seau (trOo'so or tr6i'J'so') n., trous·
seaux (troo'soz or troo·so,,') or trous·seuus
pl.
A bride's outfit, including clothing,linens, etc.
tru·an.cy (troo'an·se) 1t., tru·all·cie~ pt.
The condition of being a truant; also, an act
of being a truant.
tru·ant (trOo'ant) n., adj.
n. A person who is absent without permission,
as from school: The dropout had <1 long history
of being a truant.
adj. Of or having to do with a truant or
truancy.
truc·\1·lent (truk'ya·lant) adj.
Aggressively hostile; belligerl,nL: II l1'llcuient
1IIood.- truc'u.lent.ly wlv.
Syn. angry, fierce, ruthless.
Ant. mild, inoffensive, gentle.
tru·ly (trOo'le) adv.
I In agreement with fact; really: That truly
happened. 2 With loyalty or faithfulness: I
love you truly. "
trun·cate (trung'k1!t) v. lrun·cat·eu, trull·cat·
ing
To cut the Lop or end from: to tmncak a
pyramid.
try (trl) v. tried, try.ina; 1t., tries pI.
v. 1 To undertake, endeavor: The baby is
Iryi11g to walk 2 To mal,e experimental use of
(often with out): He tried Ollt the new car. 3 In
law, To determine guilt or innocence by
judicial trial: lJe was arrcstni ami tried almost
immediately, which strud, ?/Ie as bclllg rather
hasty.
n. The act of attempting: Afla tel! tries he
dended the bat/cry was dead.
Spelling tip: Remember that words ending
ill a y preceded by a consonant usually change
the y to i before any suflix except one
beginning with i. Thus tried and tries, but
701

tryat (triat) n.
1 An appointment, as between lovers, to
meet at a designated time and place. 2 The
meeting place agreed upon.
tset·se (tset's!!) n.
A small, bloodsucking fly of southern Africa
that transmits disease in cattle, horses, etc.
tung·sten (tung'stan) n.
A steel·gray, brittle metal much used in the
manufacture of filaments for electric lamps
and high-speed cutting tools.
tur·gid (tur'jid) adj.
.­ j
1 Unnaturally puffed out; swollen. 2 Bombas­
tic, as languagll, style, etc.: a turgid speech.­ was making. 3 Not known or felt to exisl;
tur·gid.j.ty (tCir.jid'a·te) n.
Usage: Turgid should not be confused with
turbid, which means cloudy or muddy: a
turbid siream.
tur.key (Wr'ke) n., tur.keys pl.
A large American bird related to the pheasant.
tur.pi.tude (tOr'pa·t(y)60d) n.
Wickedness; vileness; depravity, or any
action showing this: the moral turpitude of
Nero's times.
tur·quoise (tilr'koiz or tur'kwoiz) n.
I A blue or greenish-blue precious stone. 2 A
light greenish-blue color.
tur.ret (tilr'it) n.
1 A rotating armored tower, large enough to
~
contain powerful guns, forming part of a
warship, fort, tank, or airpJane.2 A small
tower. often merely ornamental, rising above
a larger structure, as on a castle.
ty·coon (tI·k60n') 11.
A powerful business leader: a Wall Street
tycoon.
ty'phoid (tl'foid) n.
An infectious disease caused by bacteria.
tyr·an.nize (tir'a·niz) v. tyr.an.nized, tyr.an. un·for·get·ta.ble (un'far·get'()·bal) adj.
niz.ing
To rule unjustly or cruelly.-tyc'an.ny n.
'Y'rant (U'rant) n.
A cruel and unjust ruler: a defeated counlry at
the mercy of a tyranl.
Syn. despot, autocrat.
u Not manageable; uncontrollable.
u·biq·ui·tous (yoo·bik'wa·tas) adj.
Existing, or seeming to exist, everywhere at
once; omnipresent: The television cameras,
llbiquitoU8 and demanding, overshadowed Ihe
entire cOnl·cntion.-u.biq'ui.lous.ly adv.; u.
blq'ui.tous.ness, u.blq'u!·ly n.
um·brage (um'brij) n.
A sense of injury; offense (used in the phrases
CJ'!l!!I
10 give umbrage, to take umbragtl).
u·na.nim·j·ty (yoo'na.nim'a.t~) n.
Complete agreement in opmion, etc.: We
reached unanimity on aU pomts.
u·nan·i·mous (yoo·nan'a·mas) adj.
I In complete agreement; all of one mind;
sharing the same views or sentiments: The
committee was unanimous in ita decision. 2
Showing or reSUlting {rom complete agree~
702
,~
~
~
~
., ~
~
until
mont: a unanimous vote.-·u.nnn'j.mous.ly
~
~-
adv.
un·be.liev·a·ble (ull'ba·jev'a·b.:;l) adj.
~
That cannot be believed; incredible; astound­
ing.-un'be.liev'a.bly adv. ~
un·civ·j·lizcd (un·siv'a·llzd) adj.
Not civilized; barbarous: '1'he benefits oj West­ ~
ern culture were brought to the uncivilized
Iribes.
un·con·scious (un·kon'shas) adj.
~
I Temporarily deprived of consciousness:
~
knocked unconscious by the blow. 2 Unaware;
ignorant: unconscious of the impression he
unaccompanied by conscious effort: an un­
conscious imitation.
un·con·trol·la·ble (un'kan.trol';j·b"l) adj. ~
Beyond control; ungovernable.
unc·tu·ous (ungk'ch60·as) adj. ~
I Characterized by affectedly deep emotion;
excessively smooth: a smug, self-o(m/eilled, ~
unctuous man. 2 Oily; greasy: an unctuous
clay.-unc'tu.ous.ly adv., unc'tu·ouB.ness n. :!!!!!I
un·doubt·ed·ly (un·dou'tid·!e) adv.
Without doubt; indubitably: You are un­
doubtedly right. ~
un·du·Ja·tion (un'd(y)a·la'shan) Il.
I A wavy motion or form; a gentle rise and
fall: Ihe undulatiolls of a rolling countryside.
2 A wave.
ull·dy.ing (un·dl'ing) adj. ~
Immortal, everlasting: fle pledged undying
devotion.
~
un·eas·y (un·e'ze) adj. un.eas·j·er, un.eas.i.est
1 Disturbed; worried; She was uneasy about
the assignment. 2 Embarrassed; awkward: all ~
Uneasy laugh. 3 Unstable: an uneasy peace.­
un.eas'j.ly ado., un.eas'j.ness 11. ~
Not forgettable; memorable.-un'for.get'­
ta.bly adu. ~
un.in.tel.Ii·~i.ble (un'in·tel'a·ja·bal) adj.
Not intelligible; incomprehensible: He could ~
only make unintelligible sounds.-un'in.tel'.
li.gi.bly adv. ~
un.man·age·a·ble (un·man'ij·;j·bal) adj.
un.mit·i·gllt·ed (un·mit'a·gii'tid) adj. ~
I Unrelieved: unmitigated grief. 2 Without
qualification or condition; absolute; com­ ~
plete: an unmitigated rogue.
un·nec·es·sar.y (un·neg'a·ser'i) adj. ~
Not required or necessary; !lot essential.
un.par·al·lcled (un·par'a·leld) adj.
Without parallel; unmatched; unprece­
dented: unparallelecl effrontery.
un.prec·e·dent·ed (un·pres'a·den'tid) adj. C!!!I
Being without precedent; preceded by no
similar case; unheard of: Such actions are lI1,­
precedented in this cer!lt~r1J. t.!J!!I
un·ti1 (un·til') prep., conj.
prep. I Up to the time of; till; Wait an~i: f!!II!!
dark. 2 Before: used with a negative: not unli;
seven.
conj. 1 To the time when, place where, 0: ~~_
C!!!!!!
e!!!!I
unusual
gree that: until I die; until you reach the cor­
ner. 2 Before: used with a negative: Don't 00
until I come.
un·u·su·al (un·yOO'zhoo·al) adj.
Not usual, common, or ordinary; rare.~
un·u'su·al.lyadv.
un.wield·y (un·wel'de) adj.
Difficult to move or manage; clumsy; awk­
v
ward: He managed to get his unwieldy body
out of Ihe chair.
up·braid (up. brad') v. . position: The apartment buildil1g has three
To reproach for some wrongdoing: She up­
braided him for coming home late.
Spelling tip: Remember the b, in pronuncia­
va·cate (va'kat) v. va.cal.ed, vII·cal·ing
tion as well as spelling.
To make empty by moving out of (as an
Syn. chide, scold, reprove.
apartment) or by giving up (as a job): The
ur·ban (ur'ban) adj.
I Of, having to do with, or characteristic of
a city: urban blight. 2 Situated or dwelling in
a town: an urban population.
ur.bane (fir·Mn') adj.
Characterized by or having refinement or
elegance; courteolls; slIave: the urbane man­
ners of a di,Jilomal.-ur.ban'i.ty (fir·ban'a.te) vae·cine (vak'8en) n.
n., ur.bane Iy adv.
Etymology: Urbane and urban both come
from the same Latin word, urbanu8, mean­
ing of the city.
Syn. polite, smooth.
Ant. rough, rustic, rude.
u·re·thra (you·re'thra) n., u·re·lhras or u.re.
(brae ( yoo·re'thri!) pI.
The duct by which urine is discharged from
the bladder of most mammals.
us·a·ble (yoo'za·bal) adj.
Able to be used: Most of the equipment is still
u8able.
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled ltseable. space from which air and other gus has been
us·age (yoo'sij) n.
I Treatment: worn by hard usage. 2 A cus­
tomary or habitual practice OP way of doing
something: an act permitted by usage; ancienl
usage. 3 The customary or standard way in
which words, sounds, and grammatical forms
in a language are used: accepted American
usage; the rules of good usage. 4 A particular
verbal expression or the application of such
an expression.
use·ful (yoos'f,,!) adj.
Having a use: a useful gadget; a useful bit of
information.-use'ful.ly adv.; use'ful.ness n.
u·su·al (yoo'zhoo·al) tldj.
Expected in the ordinary course of events;
frequent; common; normal.--u'su.al.ly adv.,
u'su.al·ness n.
u·surp (yoo·zurp') v.
To seize and hold wrOllgfully; take possession
of b;y force: The military Junia usurped the
king 8 power and made him merely a figure­
head.~u.surp'er. u'sur.pa'tlon n.
u·to.pi·a (yoo·tO'pil·a) n.
I Any state, condition, or place of ideal per­
fection: For two weeb I lived in Hawaii, my
idea 0/ utopia. 2 An impractical scheme,
valet
especially one for social improvement.~
u.top'i.an adj.
ux·Q·ri·ous (uk·sor'e·as) adj.
Showing extreme of foolish fondness for one's
wife.--ux·o'ri.ous.ly adv.; ux,o'ri·ous·ness n.
va·can·cy (va'kan.sl!) n., va·can·cies pl.
1 The state of being empty; emptmess: the
vacancy of her stare. 2 An unoccupied place or
vacancies.~va'cant adj., va'canl.ly adv.
old tenants vacated the apartment yesterday.
Syn. quit, leave, withdraw.
Ant. take, occupy.
vac.d.nate (vak'su·nat) v. vac.d.nat·cd, vac·
ei.nal·ing
To inoculate with a vaccine, especially to
inOCUlate against smallpox: The doctor vac­
cinated the child.~vac'ci.na'tion n.
A preparation containing bacteria or viruses
so treated as to give immunity from a disease
when injected into someone; especially, a
preparation containing the virus of cowpox
and giving immunity from smaIlpox.
vac·ii·late (vas'i)·hil) v. vae·iHal·cd, vae·H.
lal·ing
To sway one way and the other, as in trying
to make a decision; to waver: She vacillated
between WIl nting to be a blonde and a redhead.
-'vac'i1·Ia'tion n.
vac·u·um (vak'yoo.am or vak'yoom) n.
1 A space absolutely devoid of matter, or
exhausted to a very high degree: to create an
artificial vacuum by pumping out air. 2 A
void; emptiness; gap: lier death lefl (I vacuum
in his life.
Spelling tip: Remember to double the u.
Syn. 2 gap, emptiness.
va·gar·y (va·gar'e or va:'gar.e) n., va·gar.les pl.
A wild fancy; extravagant notion: the va­
garies of a madwoman.
Syn. caprice, whim, quirJJ.
va· grant (Vii/grant) n., adj.
n. A person without a settled home; a tramp
or wanderer; a vagabond; A vagrant roaming
the countryside.
adj. Wandering about or havi,ng a wandering
course: a vagrant stream.~va'gran·ey n.
Syn. n. beachcomber, hobo, bum. adj. vaga­
bond, roaming.
val.e·dic·to·ry (val'iJ·dik'tar.e) adj., n., val.e.
die·lo·ries pI.
actj. Having to do with leave-taking: a vale­
diclory speech.
n. A parting address, as by a member of a
graduating class: He lvas chosen to deliver the
waledictory.
val·et ( val'd or val/it) n.
A gentleman's personal ~ervant, or an em­
703
valid
ployee, as in a hotel, who performs personal
services for guests.
val·id (val'id) adj.
1 Legally binding; a valid contract. 2 Convin­
cing; reasonable: not a valid excuse for miss­
ing class. 3 Based on proper logic: a valid con­
clusion based on aU the !acls.-val'id.ly adv. i
val'id·nesB, va.lid'j,ty n.
Syn. 1 lawful, legitimate. 2 bona fide.
va.Use (vo·les') n.
A suitcase; He carried a 8?nalllJalise.
Syn. bag.
vap·id (vap'id or va'pid) adj.
Without liveliness or flavor; insipid; flat and
dull: her vapid chatter.-vap'id.ly adv.; vap'­
Id·ness. va.pld'i.ty n.
ve·he·ment (vi!'a·mant) adj.
1 Passionate or ardent; intense; fervent; Iris
vehement protestations of innocence. 2 }<'ull of
energy; hvely; vigorous; vehement gestures;
vehement applausc.-ve'he·mence or ve'he.
rnen·cy n.; ve'he.ment.ly adv.
Syn. 1 fiery. feverish. 2 strenuous.
Ant. 1 calm, halfhearted. 2 Jistless.
ve.hi.de (vi!'a.kal) n.
1 Any device fitted with wheels or runners for
conveying or transporting, as a car, sled,
bicycle, etc. 2 A means of transmitting, com­
municating, expressing, etc.: The play is a
good vehicle for his comic talent.-ve·hic·u·lar
(vi·hik'ya.ler) adj.
ven·er·a·ble (ven'er·a·bal) adj.
\Vorthy of or commanding reverence; a ven­
erable profes8ion.-ven'er.a.ble.ness, yen'·
er.a.bil'j.ty n.; ven'er.a.bly adv.
Syn. revered, esteemed, honored.
ven·gcancc (ven'jans) n.
Revenge or the act of revenging; paying back
or retaliating for an injury; tlw bloody ven­
geance of tile feuding mountain dans.
Syn. reprisal, retaliation.
Ant. forgiveness.
ven·ti·late (ven'ta.lat) v. \,en.jj.lat.ed, yen·
ti.lat.ing
1 To produce a circulation of air in; admit
fresh air into: to ventilale the rOO1lt adequately.
2 To expose to examination and discussion:
to ventilate long-slanding grievances.-ven'ti.
Ia'lion n.
ve·ra·dous (va·ra'shas) adj.
1 Habitually disposeu to speak the t.ruth;
trutbful: a veracious man. 2 Coniorming to
or expressing truth; true: a veracious account.
-ve.ra'cious.\y adv., ve·ra'cious·ness n.
Syn. I honest, trustworthy. reliable. 2 U<'­
curate, correct, unimpeachable.
Ant. I dishonest, unreliable. 2 false, adul­
terated, distorted.
ver·ba·tim (var·ba'tim) adj., adv.
In the exact words; word ior word; a ver­
batim account; Repeat the conversation verba­
lim.
ver·bi·age (vur'be·ij) n.
Excess of words; wordiness: A simple idea
buried under much verbiage.
704
viceroy
Syn. verbosity, prolixity.
Ant. conciseness, terseness.
ver·bose (var·bos') adj.
Using or containing a wearisome and un­
necessary number of words; wordy: a verbose,
boring afler-dinner speech.-ver.bos·J.ty (vilr.
bos'a·te), ver·bose'ness n.; ver.bose'jy adv.
Syn. redundant, prolix, flatulent,
Ant. terse, pithy, condensed.
ver·nac·u·lar (var.nak'ya·lar) n.
The common, everyday speech of the peo­
ple, as opposeu to the literary language: to
express oneself more clearly in the vernacular.
ver·sus (vur'sas) prep.
I Against: Brown versus lhe United States;
Dempsey versus Tunr.ey. 2 Considered as the
alternative of; free trade vcrsus tariffs.
Usage: This word is n.bbreviated v. or VB.
ver·te·bra (vur'ta·bra) n., ver·te.brae (vur'ta.
bre) pl.
Any of the segmented bones of the spinal
column.
ver·ti·cal (vur'ti·kal) adj.
Extending up and down; upright; a vertical
calmnn of jigures.-ver'tj·ca!.!y adv.
Syn. erect, plumb, perpendicular.
Ant. horizontal, flat.
ver·ti·go (vilr'ta·go) )/., ver.tj.goes or ver·
tig.i.nes (vilr·tij'a·nez) 1'1.
Dizziness; any of a group of uisorders in
which a person feels as if he or his surrounu­
ings are whirling around.
vet·er·an (vet'ar·.,n or vet'ran) n.
lOne who has had long experience in doing
something; Nixon 'is a veteran of many po­
litical campaiUlls. 2 A former memher of the
armed forcos; lhe vc/(,rans of lVlV II.
vi·a (vj'J or Ve'd) )lrcp.
By way of; by a route passing through; lIe
went to Boston via New Haven.
Usage: Via not only refers to the route, but
also can refer to the method of tran~portll­
tion: We wen' via train. This latter usage is
informal.
vi,a,ble (vi'd·bal) adj.
1 Capable of living and developing normally,
as a newborn infant, seed, etc. 2 Capable oi
working, as a plan; workable or practicable.
vi·and (vi'and) II.
I An article of food, especially meat. 2 pI.
Victuals; food, especially choice fouu or meat.
Syn. 2 provisiuns.
vi·car·i·ous (vj·kar'e·as) adj.
1 Enjoyed, relt, etc., by a person as a result
of his imagined participation in an experience
not his own: He got a vicarious thrill from
reading adeellt·u re stories. 2 Made or per­
formed by substitution; suffered or done in
place of another: a vicarious sacrifice.
vice (viS) 11.
1 Evil or wicked behavior: Virtue is reward,J
and vice punished. 2 A grossly immoral habi,.
vice· roy (vls'roi) n.
A person who rules a country, colony .• :
province as a representative of his so\',,~,,:,;::
vice versa
vi·ee ver·s~ (vi'sa vur'sa)
The order being changed; conversely: She
likes him, and !rice ~er8a.
vi·cis·si·tude (vi·sis'a·t(y)OOd) n.
A Budden, unexpected change or variation,
as of fortune (almost always used in the
plural): the vicissitudes of life.-vi.cis'si.lu'­
dj·nous adj.
vie·tim (vik'tim) n.
1 A living creature who is killed, injured or
subjected to suffering: The money is b;ing
senl to the victims of the flood. 2 A person who
is swindled or tricked; a dupe.
vict·uals (vit'lz) n.pl.
Food for human beings, as prepared for eat­
ing: 7.'he picnic victuals are tn the hamper.
Spelling tip: Victuals are sometimes spelled
as they are pronounced-vittles-but this is
an informal usage.
view (vyoo) n., v.
n. 1 Act of seeing; survey; inspection: a pri­
vale view. 2 Power or range of vision: Are the
mountains in view yet? 3 That which is seen;
outlook; prospect: Ihe view from the bridge. 4
MI;In.ner of l~lOking at. ~hings; judgment;
oplnlOn: my meW8 on poithCB.
~. 1 To examine; scrutinize: lie was asked /0
!riew the body and make an idenlification. 2 '1'0
think of or consider: His actions are viewed
unfavorably.
vig.i·lant (vii'a·lant) adj.
Alert, watchful: II you. wish to proted your­
self, remain vigilant.-vig/j.Jance n., vig'j.
!ant·ly adv.
vi.gnette ( vin'yet') n.
1 A short literary deHcription marked by
subtlety and delicacy: vignettes of life in co­
lonia! days. 2 An engraving, photograph, or
the hke whose background fades off gradu­
ally.
vil·i·ey (vil'a·fi) v. vil.i.fied. vil·j.fy·ing
To abuse or characterize with defamatory
language; to ,n:align publicly: 7'he Nazi ill­
former was mlified whenever he appeared in
the slreet.
vin·di·eate (vin'de·kilt) v. vin·di·cat·ed vi1\'
di.cat.ing , agaln~t glare, etc., as on the wmdshield of an
1 To dea; of. accusa,tion. censure, suspicion,
etc.: He vmdtcated hu name by proving he did
not commit the crime. 2 To maintain or defend
successfully; justify: The candidate vindicated
his right to party support.
viIl·die·live (vin·dik'tiv) adj.
Having a spirit of revenge; spiteful: The vin­
dictive divorcee tried 10 turn Jzer children against
Iheir father.
vi·o·lellce (vI'a.lans) n.
1 The quality or state of being violent· in­
tensity; fur~: the violence of the storm. 2 Vio­
lent or abUSIve use of force; injury' outrage'
robbery with violence. , .
vi.ra.go (vi·rii'gO) n., vi'ra.goes or vi.ra.goa
pl.
A noisy, sharp-tongued woman; a shrew.
vitriolic
vir·ile (vir'"l) adj.
1 Having the characteristic~ of adult man­
hood; masculine. 2 Having qualities con­
sidered typically masculine; vigorous; sturdy:
lIirile prose.-vi.ril.i.ty (va.ril'a·te) Ii.
vir.tue (vur'choo) n.
1 Moral excellence; righteousne~~; goodness.
2 Any admirable quality, 3 Purity; chastity.
Etymology. Virlue comes from a Latin word
meaning manliness, strength, or bravery.
vir·tu·o·so (vur'ch60·(j'so) n., vir·tu.o."os or
vir·tu·o·si pl.
A master of technique, especially in music.
vir·tu·ous (vur'clloo·as) adj.
Characterized by, exhibiting, or having the
nature of virtue; morally pure and good;
chaste.
vir·u·lent (vir'ya,lant) adj.
1 Exceedingly harmful, poisonous, or infec­
tious: The family was plagued by a virulent
disease. 2 Full of bitterness and hate: a viru­
lent speech allacking slum lords.~··~vir'u.lence
n., vlr'u.lent·iy adv.
vis·cer·a (vis'ar·a) 1l.pl.
The internal organs of the body, especially
those of the great cavities of the body, as the
stomach, lungs, heart, intestine~, etc.
vis·cid (vis'jd) adj.
1 Sticky or adhesive; viscous. 2 Having a
sticky surface, as somc lea VI'S.
vis·eous (vis'kas) adj.
Adhesive; semifluid; sticky: Tar is a viscous
liquid.
vise (VIS) n.
A clamping device, usually of two jaws made
to be closed together with a screw. lever etc.
used for grasping and holdillg objects being
worked on.
vis·j.ble (viz'a,bal) adj.
Capable of being S(l(m: 7'i/C ship was vi.qible
fraTl! tile shore fur a long time.-~vis'i.bil'i.ty n.
vis'i.blyadv. '
vi·Bor (vi'zJr) n.
} S~mething that ~hades the eyes, as the pro­
Jecting pIece at the front of a baseball cap.
2 A. movable piece or part ser:-ing to protect
automobile.
vi·tals (vrt'lz) n.pl.
1 T~e parts or organs of the body necessary
to lIfe. 2 The parts or qualities essential to
the well-being of anything.
vi·la·min (vl'ta·min) n.
Any of a group of organic substances found
in minute quantities in most natural food­
stuffs, and closely associated with the main­
tennnce of a healthy body.
S~elling tip: This word is also spelled vila­
mtne.
vi!.re,.o!1s (vit're·as) adj.
Havmg to do with, obtained from, or re­
sembling glass: vitreous rocks.
vit·ri·ol·ic (vit'r1!,ol'ik) adj.
1 Corrosive, bUrning, or caustic. 2 Inclined to
or marked by angry, caustic speech, criti­
705

vituperation
cism, etc.: a vitriolic review; a llitriolic op­
ponent.
Syn. 2 virulent, scathing, mordant.
vi·tu·per.a·tion (v'i·tiiO'pa·ra'shan) n.
Abusive langua~e; censure: a torrent of vitu­
peration.-v!.lu per·ate v., vi.tu'per.a.tive
adj.
Syn. invective, abuse.
vi·va·dons (vi·va'shas or V!·vil.'shas} adj.
Full of life and spirit: She was so ~ivacious
before her illness,
vi.vip.a.rous (vI·vip'ar.as) adj.
Bringing forth Jiving young, as most mam­
mals.
vi·vi·section (viv'a'sek'shan) n.
The dissection of and experimentation on
living animals, especially for medical and
scientific research.
vo·cif·er·ous (vo·sWar.as) adj.
Making or characterized by a loud outcry;
clamorous: a vociferous minority.--vo.cif'er.
oU8·Iyadv.
Syn. stride.nt, blatant, noisy.
vogue (vOg) n.
1 The prevalent way or fashion; style: It's
difficult to predict what will be in vogue this
year. 2 Popular favor; general acceptance:
Folk aill~erB have had a great vOGue recently.
vol·a·tile (VOl'd' tal) adj.
1 Evaporating rapidly at ordinary tem­
peratures: volatile saits. 2 Easily influenced;
fickle; changeable; explosive: a colatile girl;
a volatile political situation.
vo·ta·ry (vo'tar·e) n., vo·la·ries pl.
1 A person bound by a vow or promise; a
devout worshiper: votaries of Artemis. 2 A
person devoted to Borne particular pursuit,
worship, study, etc.: a votary of the theater.
vul·ner·a·ble (vul'nar·a·bal) adj.
1 Capable of being hurt or damaged. 2 Open
to attack.-vul'ner.a.bil'i.ty n.
vul·ture (vul'char) n.
1 A large bird that feeds mostly on decaying
flesh. 2 A savagely greedy person.
w respect to temperature, moisture, winds, etc.:
waft (waft or waft) v.
To carry or float gently or lightly through
the air or over the water.
waive (wil.v) v. waived, waiv.ing
1 To give up a claim to: tawaive an option on II
piece of land. 2 To put off; postpone; delay.
waiv·er (wa'var) n.
1 The voluntary giving up of a right,
privilege, or advantage. 2 The written
evidence of such a surrender: Ilis client
signed a waiver.
wan (won) adj. wan·ner, wan·nesl
Pale or faint, as from being ill or tired: a !Van
complexion; a wan smile.
wan·der (won'dar) v.
1 '1'0 move or tra vel about without destina­
tion or purpose; roam; rove: to wander
throu.gh the woods. 2 To stray: The dog has
706
.~
~
.~
where !
wandered away. 3 To extend in an irregular
~
~
course; twist or meander: A stream wanders
through the fields of the eslate;-wan'der·er n.
war· rant (war'ant or wor'ant) n., v.
n. I A legal paper authorizing arrest, search, ~
seizure, etc. 2 Something that gives a right;
sanction; ju"tification: HI/wI warn",t do you
have 10 make su ell a slale'men!?
v. To be sufficient grounds for; justify: The
facts warranted furtherinvesligalion.
was·sail (wos'ill or wo·sil.l') n., v.
n. 1 An ancient festivity at which toasts were
drunk. 2 The liqnor prepared for such a
festivity.
v. To take part in a wassail.
wat·tie (wot'l) n.; v. wat·lled. wat.tling
n. 1 A frame or structure of rods or twigs
woven together, used for fences, walls, etc.
2 Flesh, often wrinkled and brighlly colored,
hanging from the throat of a turkey, chicken,
etc., and of some reptiles.
v. 1 'ro weave or twist (twigs, branches, etc.)
into a network. 2 To form, as baskets, by
intertwining twigs.
way-bill (wu'bil') 11.
A list describing or identifying goods or
naming passengers carried by a train,
steamer, etc.
wear (wllr) v. wore, worn, wear·jug; n.
v. 1 'Io carry or ha ve on the person, as a gar­
ment, ornament, etc,: She 'wears glasses. 2 To
impair, waste, or consume by use or c{)nst~\lt
action. The water had worn tiw .tones. 3 10
cause or produce by scraping, rubbing, etc.:
to wear a hole in a coat. 4 1'0 withstand the
effects of use, wear, etc., as specified: '1'he
skirt wears 'well. 5 To pass gradually or
tediously: 'Phe day wwrs 011. •
n. 1 The act of weanng, or the state of bemg
worn: My shirl is the worse for wear. 2 Material
or articles of dress to wear: silk for surn'mer
wear; men's ~vear. 3 The destructive clfcct of
usa- or work.-wear'a·blc adj., wear'er 11.
weath·er (weth'"r) n., v.
n. The general atmospheric condition with
1vet weather.
v. 1 To expose or be exposed to the action of
the weather: to 'Weather lumber. 2 To pass
through and survive: to weather a storm.
wel·ler (wel'tar) v., n.
v. 1 To roll about; wallow. 2 To lie or be
soaked in some fluid. as blood.
n. 1 A rolling movement, as of waves. 2 A
commotion; turmoil.
where ( hwar) ad1'., conj., pro1!.
adv. 1 At or in what place. relation, respect,
or situation: 11l1lere is your car? 2 'l'o what
place or end: Where is he going? 3 From what
place, source, or cause: 1Fhere did you lean.
that? 4 At, in, or to which: That's the pla:<
where I lost it.
conj. To, at, or ill the IJlace to which or ;;.
which: I live where the road ends.
pron. What place: Where dues he COme fr~.".;
wherever wraith
wher·ev·er (hwAr'ev'ar) conj., adv. 1 In the company of: I was walking with my
conj. In, at, or to whatever place: Go wherever
cousin. 2 Having; bearing: Q boy wilh a book.
you ,visil.
3 Against: to fight lvilh ·u burglar. 4 Because of;
adv. Where (emphatic): Wherever is my pen?
as a consequence of; /0 shiver ,vWz cold. 5 In
wheth·er (hweth'ar) conj. charge of; in possession of: Leave the key
1 If it is the case that (used to introduce an with me. 6 Using; by means of: to dig with a
indirect question, often with the negative spade. 7 In the same direction as: to swim
bein!:l' implied): Tel! me whether you are with the current. 8 In regard to; in the case of:
con8'lderinp OUT plan. 2 In either case when or to sympathize with a chilil. 9 In support of; of
if: Whether she ataYB or leaves, we are still the same opinion as: I am with you.
responsible for her. 3 Either: Whether by luck with·er (with'dr) v.
or ability, he 'passed the exam. 1 To become or cause to becume faded,
which (hwichl adj., pron. lifeless, or dry: The heat 'withered the Tllses.
adj. What one of a certain group mentioned 2 To make incapable of speech or aelion: His
or implied: Which toy do you want? Which is scornful glance withered his opponent.
your house? with· hold (with·hold' or with· hold') v. wilh·
prOll. I That: This is the story which he chose. held, with·hold,ing
2 The one, or ones, that: He knows which I 1 To hold back; restraiu: Withhold your
meant. enthusiasm. 2 To keep back; decline to grant:
while (hwIl) n., cOllj.; v. whiled, whil·ing Ii e with held his consent.
n. A short time; also, any period of time:
wiz·ened (wiz/and) adj.
SI<lY and test for a while.
Dried up; shriveled; withered; It wizened old
can;. 1 During the time that; as long as:
crone.
While in Paris he learned French. 2 Although:
wob·ble (wob/al) v. wob.bled, wob.bling, n.
While he found fault, he also prai.ed.
v. 1 To move or cause to move unsteadily
v. To cause (time) to pass lightly and pleas­
from side to side: This desk wobbles. 2 To
antly: He was whiling the time away.
show indecision or unsteadiness; waver;
whirn·si·cal (hwim'zi,kal) adj. vacillate. .
1 Having eccentric ideas; capriCIOUS. n. An unsteady, wobbling motion.
Z Oddly constituted; fantastic; quaint.­ woe·Cul (wo'fal) adj.
whim'si.ca!.ly adv. Accompanied by or causing misery; direful;
whis·tle (hwis'al) v. whis·tled, whis,tHng. 1!. regrettable: They Ii/Jed in sud, cu;oeful poverty.
v. 1 To make a musical tone, usually shrill, by -woe'Cul.ly adv.
sending the breath through the teeth or Syn. miserable.
through a small openin\i formed by puckering worn·an (wOom"m) 11., WUllH,n (wim'in) pI.
the lips. 2 To move With a whistling sound. I An adult human female. 2 Women as a
3 To blow or sound a whistle. group.
n. 1 A device for producing a shrill tone by Spelling tip: Notice that only one letter
the passage of air, steam, etc., through it. changes in the plural, despite the change in
2 Any whislling sound, as of a missile, the pronunciation: a becomes e.
wind, etc. won·drous (wun'draB) adj.
whole (hoi) adj., n. Wonderful; marvelous: such It wondrous tale.
adj. 1 Entire; complete: We traveled a whole
day. 2 Unbroken; sound; intact: After the fire wont (wunt or wont) adj., n.
there was not one whole windowpane left in the adj. Doing habitually; accuslomed; used: lie
building. is wunt /.0 drink some fOTt after dinner.
n. All the parts making up a thing; totality; n. Ordinary manner 0 doing or acting; habit:
He lost the whole of his estnte. . It was his wont /0 take the dog for (lwalk.
Syn. n. custom, practice.
whol.ly (he>'le) adv.
Completely; totally: He uill never be whollJl woo (woo) v,
pleased with the house. 1'1'0 seek the love and affection of, especially
in order to marry; court: lVas ever woman in
width (width) n. this humor wooed? 2 To invite; solicit; seek:
I Dimension or measurement of an object Our aim is to woo the valers.
taken from side to side. 2 Something that has
width, as a piece of cloth. wors·ted (wOoa'tid or wur'stid) n.
1 Woolen yarn. 2 'A fabric made from this
wield (w1!ld) v. yarn.
1 To handle as a weapon or instrument. 2 To
exercise aut!lOrity, power, influence, etc. wrack (rakl n.
1 Ruin; destruction: used especially in the
win·try (win'trill adj. win·tri,er, wln·lei·esl ptlrase wrack and ruin: The house has gone to
Of or like the winter; cold; frosty. wrack (lnd ruin. 2 Wreckage or vegetation
wis·ter·j·a (wig,tir'e'a) n. cast up on the shore: wrack of the storm.
A woody twining shrub bearing clusters of wraith (r1ith) n.
blue, purple, or white flowers, 1 An apparition of a persall thought to be
Spelling tip: This word is also spelled wis· alive, seen shortly before or shortly after his
tar·i·a (wis·tAr'e·a). death. 2 Any shadowy apparition.
with (with or with) prep. Syn. 2 phantom.

707

wrap
wrap (rap) n.; p, wrapped or wrapt, wrap'ping
n. An outer garment or cloak,
J!!!!I
v. To enclose, pack, envelop, or conceal with
folded or EIOft material: to wrap a present; a
hill wrapped in clOllds.
wrath (rath) n.
Extreme or violent anger; rage.
wreath (reth) n., wreaths (rethz) pI.
1 A band or circle of flowers or greenery
woven together: The family sent a funeral
wrealh of roses. 2 AllY curled or Bpiral shape:
a wreath of smoke.
wrench (reneh) 11., n,
u. 1 To twist or pull with force: He wrenched
the book out of her hand. 2 To twist so as to
cause strain or injury: She wrenched her ankle.
n. 1 11. violent tWist or pull: He gave my arm a
wrench. 2 A sudden feeling of emotional
distress, as that caused by parting: 11 was a
wrench 10 leave the old home. a Any of various
tools for twisting and turning bolts, nuts,
pipes, etc.
wrest (rest) v.
1 To pull or force away hy violent twisting
or wringing; He wrested the weapon frol1l her.
2 To extract by toil and effort: wrest a living
from Ihe rocky 80il.
wres·lle (res'al) I'. wres.llcd. wrea.!ling
1 To attempt to throw to the ground or force
into a certain fallen position, especially in a
contest with rules. 2 To struggle, as for
mastery; contend: to wrestle with one's con­
science.
wretch (rech) n.
1 A base, vile, or contemptible person. 2 A
miserable or pitiable person.
wrig·gle (rig'al) t•• , wrig.gled, wrig·gling n.
v. 1 To twist in Ii sinuous manner; squirm:
She wriggled in her chair. 2 To proceed by
twisting and crawling: lie wriggled through
the Immel. a To make one's way by evasive
or indirect means: He wriggled oul of the
situation by a lie. 4 To cause to move in
quick contortions: wriggling her hips.
11, A wriggling motion.
wrin·kle (ring'kal) 11., v. wrin.kled, wrin.kling
~
11. 1 A small ridgEl, crease, or fold, as on a
smooth surface: Your dress ha~ a wrinkle in it.
~
2 A small fold or ridge in the skin, usually
I
produced by age or exposure to the elements.
f. To make or become contracted into a
wrinkle or wrinkles.
wrist (rist) n.
The part vr joint vf the arm that lic~ between
the hand and the forearm.
write (ril) v. wrote, writ.tell, writ.ing
l To trace or inscribe words. symbols, etc.,
on a !<urface with pen, pencil, or (Jther means.
2 '1'0 communicale by writing, as in a leLLcr:
He writes to her every day. a To produce by
writing: 11 e is writing a play, 4 To be engaged
in the occupation of writer: I write for a
living.
writ·er (rl'tilT) 1!.
A person who writes, especially someone who
708
#!!!II
.:'!!!!
zealot
#!!II
writes for a li\'ing: He was kired as a writer bU
the film studio.
writhe (rlth) l'. wrUhed, wrilh·ing
1 To twist or distort the body, face, etc., as if
!!!!!II
in pain: writhing in agony. 2 To suffer
mentally, as from anguish, embarrassment,
etc.
wrong (r6ng) adj., n., adv., v.
adj. 1 Incorrect; mistaken; erroneous; the
wrong answer; 1 think you are wrong. 2 Un­
suitable; inappropriate: the wrong clothes; tile
wrong job. 3 Other than the right or most
desirable: the wrong way /0 do it; Ihe wrong
road. 4 Not favored by conventional social
:;;tandards: tlt.:wrong side of town. 5 Not
morally right, proper, or just; immoral: It is
wrong to sleal.
n. 1 T11at which is wrong, as an evil or unjust
action: He can tel! the difference between right
and wrong; to do wrong. 2 The state or
condition of being wrong: fie is in the ")TOng.
a An invasion or violation of someone's legal
rights.
adv. In a wrong direction, place, or manner;
awry; amiss: to go wrong.
v. 1 To violate the rights of; inflict injuries
upon: He has been deeply UJronged. 2 To
impute evil to unjustly; misrepresent: If you
think 80, you wrong him.
x
xen.o·phobe (zen'a·fob) n.
A person who hates or distrusts strangers or
foreigners.
xy.lo·phone (zi'la·fon) n.
A musical instrument consisting of a row of
wooden bars of different sizes that are
sounded by being sLruck with mallets.-xy'
la.phon·ist 11.
y ..
---'.~
j
yacht (yoU n. <:!!!!I.
A vessel specially built or filled fur racing or
~
for private pleasure excursions.
yea (ya) ade., n.
j
adv. 1 Archaic Yes. 2 In reality; indeed;
verily.
n. An affirmative vote or voter.
yeo·man (yo'man) n., yeo· men pI.
~
1 A petty officer in the U.S. Navy or Coast I
Guard who performs clerical duties. 2 In
Britain, one who cullivates his OWII farm. 'l!!!!!!!.
yield (yeld) v., n.
v. 1 Produce, give forth, ()f give il1 return: The
soil yields good crops; 1I is iu"eslllwnt yields a
jim percent return. 2 Give lip, as to a superior
l>ow(~r; ~ltrrendt:r: ttl yield tl jortn'sJ:'.
n. The amount yielded; product; result: an
.annual it/eld of JOO tons.
z
zeal·at (zcl'at.) n.
An immoderate partisan; a fanatic.
zealous
zephyr
zeal·ous (zel'uS) adj. zeph·yr (zei'ar) n.
Filled with or incited by great interest and 1 The west wind. 2 AllY soft, gentle wind. :I A
devotion: zealous workers.

Syn. earnest, fervent, hardworking.

lightweight worsted or woolen yarn.
Ant. slack, unenthusiastic.
zin·ni·a (zin'e·a) n.
ze·nith (ze'nith) n.
1 The point of the heavens that is directly
overhead, and opposite to the nadir. 2 The
highest point or culrninlitinJl. point of power,
fortunes, prosperity, etc.: Venice was at her
zenith as a sea pOwer in liw 15th century.
Any of several North American plants haying
brightly colored, showy flowers.
zo.ol.o.gy (zQ·ol'a·je) 11.
The science that deals with animals, their
structure, evolution, classification, etc,-zo.
o.log.i,clll (zo·a·!oj'a·ka!) adj., zo·ol'o·gi"t n.

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