Part 6

e-zine noun [ C ]
a zine (= small magazine) that is available on the Internet

F noun LETTER
1. ( ALSO f ) [ C ] the 6th letter of the English alphabet
F noun MUSIC
2. [ C or U ] a note in Western music
The song is in (the key of) F.
Play an F followed by a G.
F noun TEMPERATURE
3. [ after noun ] ABBREVIATION FOR Fahrenheit
Yesterday the temperature was 90°F.
f2f
INTERNET ABBREVIATION FOR face to face: used in an email or chat room to describe a
situation where you meet and talk to someone, rather than communicate electronically
the FA noun [ S ]
ABBREVIATION FOR the Football Association: the national organization for football in
England
fab adjective
INFORMAL FOR fabulous (GOOD)
I bought some fab jeans on Saturday.
fable noun [ C or U ]
a short story which tells a general truth or is only partly based on fact, or
literature of this type
the fable of the tortoise and the hare
fabled adjective [ before noun ] LITERARY
describes something or someone who has been made very famous, especially by
having many stories written about them
the fabled film director Cecil B. De Mille
fabric noun CLOTH
1. [ C or U ] (a type of) cloth or woven material
dress fabric
seats upholstered in hard-wearing fabric
cotton fabrics
fabric noun STRUCTURE
2. the fabric of sth
the structure or parts especially of a social unit or a building
the fabric of society
Unhappiness was woven into the natural fabric of people's lives.
We must invest in the fabric of our hospitals and start rebuilding them.
fabricate verb [ T ]
to invent or produce something false in order to deceive
He was late, so he fabricated an excuse to avoid trouble.
He claims that the police fabricated evidence against him.
fabrication noun [ C or U ]
The evidence he gave in court was a complete fabrication.
fabricate verb [ T ]
to invent or produce something false in order to deceive
He was late, so he fabricated an excuse to avoid trouble.
He claims that the police fabricated evidence against him.
fabrication noun [ C or U ]
The evidence he gave in court was a complete fabrication.
fabulous adjective GOOD
1. very good; excellent
She looked absolutely fabulous in her dress.
They've got a fabulous apartment in the centre of Paris.
We had a fabulous time at the party.
fabulous adjective NOT REAL
2. imaginary, not existing in real life
The unicorn is a fabulous creature .
fabulously adverb
extremely
fabulously rich/wealthy
facade , ALSO façade noun BUILDING
1. [ C ] the front of a building, especially a large or attractive building
the gallery's elegant 18th century facade
facade , ALSO façade noun FALSE APPEARANCE
2. [ S ] a false appearance that is more pleasant than the reality
Behind that amiable facade, he's a deeply unpleasant man.
We are fed up with this facade of democracy.
face noun HEAD
1. [ C ] the front of the head, where the eyes, nose and mouth are
She's got a long, thin face.
She had a puzzled expression on her face.
2. [ C ] an expression on someone's face
I was greeted by smiling faces.
He had a face like thunder (= He looked very angry) .
3. make/pull a face
to make a strange expression with your face, usually to show that you do not like
someone or something
"This tastes horrible," said Tom, pulling a face at his glass.
I was pulling silly faces to make the baby laugh.
face noun FRONT
4. [ C ] the front or surface of an object
the north face of a mountain
the west face of the building
5. [ C ] the front of a clock or watch which has the numbers or marks which show
what time it is
a watch face with Roman numerals
face noun RESPECT
6. [ U ] the respect and honour of others
He thinks he would lose face if he admitted the mistake.
She tried to save face by inventing a story about being overseas at the time.
be in your face US INFORMAL
If someone is in your face they criticize you all the time
One of the managers is always in my face.
be in your face SLANG
to be shocking and annoying in a way that is difficult to ignore
dance music that is aggressive, sexy and in your face
disappear off the face of the Earth ( ALSO be wiped off the face of the Earth )
to disappear completely
The whole tribe seems to have disappeared off the face of the Earth.
sb's face doesn't fit UK INFORMAL
If someone's face doesn't fit, their appearance or personality are not suitable for a
job or other activity.
sb's face falls
If someone's face falls, they suddenly look very disappointed
Her face fell when she heard he wasn't coming.
the face of sth
what you can see of something or what shows
Poor quality is the unacceptable face of increased productivity.
Get out of my face! SLANG
a rude way of telling someone that they are annoying you and should stop
I said no! Now get out of my face!
have a face like the back end of a bus UK INFORMAL
to be very ugly
in the face of sth
despite having to deal with a difficult situation or problem
She left home in the face of strong opposition from her parents.
on the face of it
used when you are describing how a situation seems on the surface
On the face of it, it seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden costs.
take sth at face value
to accept something for what it appears to be rather than studying it more closely
I took the offer at face value. I didn't think they might be trying to trick me.
to sb's face
If you say something unpleasant to someone's face, you say it to them directly,
when you are with them
If you've got something to say, say it to my face.
face verb DEAL WITH
1. [ T ] If you face a problem, or a problem faces you, you have to deal with it
This is one of the many problems faced by working mothers.
Passengers could face long delays.
You're faced with a very difficult choice there.
2. [ T ] to accept that something unpleasant is true and start to deal with the
situation
I think Phil has to face the fact that she no longer loves him.
We have to face facts here - we simply don't have enough money.
He's dying but he refuses to face the truth .
3. can't face sth/doing sth
to not want to do or deal with something unpleasant
I can't face walking up all those steps again.
I know I've got to tell her but I can't face it.
face verb TURN TOWARDS
4. [ I usually + adverb or preposition T ] to turn or be turned towards something
physically; to be opposite
The terrace faces towards the sea/faces south.
Their houses face each other across the street.
face verb FRONT
5. [ T ] If you face a building, you put an extra layer in front of what is already
there
The house was built of wood but faced in/with brick.
face the music
to accept criticism or punishment for something you have done
face up to sth phrasal verb
to accept that a difficult situation exists
She's going to have to face up to the fact that he's not going to marry her.
Facebook noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a website where you can show information about yourself, and communicate with
groups of friends, classmates, etc.
Facebook noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a website where you can show information about yourself, and communicate with
groups of friends, classmates, etc.
facecloth noun [ C ] UK ( US washcloth , AUSTRALIAN face washer )
facecloth
a small cloth used to wash the body, especially the face and hands
ˈ face ˌ cream noun [ C or U ]
cream which you put on your face to make the skin softer and less dry
-faced suffix
with the type of face described
round-faced (= having a round face)
sad-faced (= having a sad face)
red-faced (= embarrassed)
faceless adjective DISAPPROVING
having no clear characteristics and therefore not interesting
faceless bureaucrats
facelift noun
1. [ C ] a medical operation which tightens loose skin to make the face look
younger
2. [ S ] treatment to make something look more attractive, for example a building
The bank is planning to give its 1930s building a complete facelift.
ˈ face ˌ pack noun [ C ]
a substance like cream which is left on the face to dry and is then removed, in
order to clean and tighten the skin
ˈ face ˌ powder noun [ U ]
skin-coloured powder used on the face to make it look less shiny and more
attractive
face-saving adjective [ before noun ]
done so that other people will continue to respect you
a face-saving exercise/gesture
face-saving adjective [ before noun ]

done so that other people will continue to respect you
a face-saving exercise/gesture
facet noun [ C ]
1. one part of a subject, situation, etc. that has many parts
She has so many facets to her personality.
2. one of the small flat surfaces cut on a precious stone
-faceted suffix
multi-/many-faceted
having many different parts
a multi-faceted personality
facetious adjective DISAPPROVING
not serious about a serious subject, in an attempt to be funny or to appear clever
facetious remarks
He's just being facetious.
facetiously adverb
facetiousness noun [ U ]
face-to-face adverb [ before noun ] , adjective
directly, meeting someone in the same place
We've spoken on the phone but never face-to-face.
She came face-to-face with the gunman as he strode into the playground.
ˌ face ˈ value noun [ C usually singular ]
the value or price which is shown on, for example, a stamp, a coin or a bank note
facial adjective
of or on the face
facial hair
facial cleansers and moisturizers
facial expressions
facial noun [ C ]
a beauty treatment which cleans and improves the skin of the face with creams
(= thick liquids) and gentle rubbing
Beauty treatments range from an eyelash tint at £8 to a deep cleansing facial
costing £58.
Facile adjective
describes a remark or theory which is too simple and has not been thought about
enough
a facile explanation
We must avoid facile recriminations about who was to blame.
facile adjective
describes a remark or theory which is too simple and has not been thought about
enough
a facile explanation
We must avoid facile recriminations about who was to blame.
facilitate verb [ T ] FORMAL
to make possible or easier
The new ramp will facilitate the entry of wheelchairs.
The current structure does not facilitate efficient work flow.
facilitator noun [ C ]
someone who helps a person or organization do something more easily or find the
answer to a problem, by discussing things and suggesting ways of doing things
I see my role as that of a facilitator, enabling other people to work in the way that
suits them best.
facility noun BUILDING
1. [ C ] a place, especially including buildings, where a particular activity happens
a nuclear research facility
a military facility
a new sports facility
2. facilities
the buildings, equipment and services provided for a particular purpose
shopping facilities
medical facilities
sports facilities
facility noun ABILITY
3. [ C or U ] an ability, feature or quality
His facility for languages is astonishing.
a phone with a memory facility
-facing suffix
turned towards the stated direction
Most avalanche accidents occur on north- and east-facing slopes.
facing noun
1. [ C ] an outer layer covering a wall, etc
The wall was built of rubble with a facing of stone.
2. [ C or U ] an extra layer of material sewn to the inside edge of a piece of
clothing to strengthen it, or to the outside, especially of collars and the ends of sleeves,
for decoration
A blue jacket with white facing
facsimile noun [ C ]
1. an exact copy, especially of a document
a facsimile of the original manuscript
2. FORMAL a fax
facsimile noun [ C ]
1. an exact copy, especially of a document
a facsimile of the original manuscript
2. FORMAL a fax
fact noun [ C or U ]
1. something which is known to have happened or to exist, especially something
for which proof exists, or about which there is information
No decision will be made till we know all the facts.
I don't know all the facts about the case.
I'm not angry that you took my car - it's just the fact that you didn't ask me first.
He knew for a fact that Natalie was lying.
It's sometimes hard to separate fact from fiction.
2. as a matter of fact ( ALSO in (actual) fact )
used to add emphasis to what you are saying, or to show that it is the opposite of
or different from what went before
No I don't work. In fact, I've never had a job.
"Have you always lived here?" "As a matter of fact (= The truth is) I've only lived
here for the last three years."
3. a fact of life
something unpleasant which cannot be avoided
Going bald is just a fact of life.
4. facts and figures
exact detailed information
We are getting some facts and figures together and we will then have a full board
meeting.
5. the facts of life
details about sexual activity and the way that babies are born
fact-finding adjective [ before noun ]
done in order to discover information for your company, government, etc
a fact-finding mission/trip
faction noun [ C ] MAINLY DISAPPROVING
a group within a larger group, especially one with slightly different ideas from the
main group
the left-wing faction of the party
factional adjective
factional leaders
factionalism noun [ U ]
Factionalism was tearing the party and the country apart.
factitious adjective FORMAL
false or artificial
He has invented a wholly factitious story about his past.
factitious adjective FORMAL
false or artificial
He has invented a wholly factitious story about his past.
factoid noun [ C ] HUMOROUS
an interesting piece of information
factor noun [ C ] FACT
1. a fact or situation which influences the result of something
People's voting habits are influenced by political, social and economic factors.
Heavy snow was a contributing factor in the accident.
Price will be a major/crucial factor in the success of this new product.
The economy is regarded as the decisive/key factor which will determine the
outcome of the general election.
INFORMAL The film's success is largely due to its feel-good factor (= its ability to
make people feel happy) .
factor noun [ C ] NUMBER
2. SPECIALIZED in mathematics, any whole number which is produced when you
divide a larger number by another whole number
Two, three, four and six are all factors of twelve.
3. SPECIALIZED a particular level on some systems of measurement
a factor 20 suntan cream
a wind chill factor of -20
4. by a factor of SPECIALIZED
If an amount becomes larger or smaller by a factor of a particular number, it
becomes that number of times larger or smaller
Cases of leukaemia in the area near the nuclear reactor have risen by a factor of
four.
factor verb
factor sth in phrasal verb ( ALSO factor sth into sth )
to include something when you are doing a calculation, or when you are trying to
understand something
People are earning more, but when inflation is factored in, they are no better off.
The age of the patients and their overall health must be factored into the results.
factorize , UK USUALLY factorise verb [ T ] ( ALSO factor ) SPECIALIZED
If you factorize a number, you divide it into factors.
factorize , UK USUALLY factorise verb [ T ] ( ALSO factor ) SPECIALIZED

If you factorize a number, you divide it into factors.
factory noun [ C ]
a building or set of buildings where large amounts of goods are made using
machines
a car/shoe/textile factory
a factory worker/manager
ˌ factory ˈ farming noun [ U ]
a system of farming in which a lot of animals are kept in a small closed area, in
order to produce a large amount of meat, eggs or milk as cheaply as possible
a campaign against factory farming
factory-farmed adjective
I think free-range chickens taste much better than factory-farmed ones.
ˌ factory ˈ floor noun [ C ]
the area where the ordinary workers in a factory work
The company has been criticized for the lack of safety on the factory floor.
on the factory floor
involving ordinary workers rather than managers
That sort of decision should be taken on the factory floor.
ˈ factory ˌ ship noun [ C ]
a large ship which has equipment for keeping the fish caught by other smaller
ships fresh, usually by freezing them
ˈ factory ˌ shop noun [ C ] ( ALSO ˈ factory ˌ store, ˈ factory ˌ outlet )
a shop that sells things more cheaply because it sells them directly from the
company which made them
factotum noun [ C ] FORMAL
a person employed to do all types of jobs for someone
She was a general factotum at the restaurant - washing dishes, cleaning the
floors and polishing the furniture.
factsheet noun [ C ]
a written document containing information for the public
A set of factsheets accompanies the TV series.
factsheet noun [ C ]
a written document containing information for the public
A set of factsheets accompanies the TV series.
factual adjective
using or consisting of facts
She gave a clear, factual account of the attack.
factually adverb
factually accurate
faculty noun ABILITY
1. [ C usually plural ] a natural ability to hear, see, think, move, etc
Even at the age of 100, she still had all her faculties.
Is he in command/possession of all his faculties (= Can he still hear, speak,
see and think clearly) ?
2. [ C ] a special ability to do a particular thing
She has a faculty for inspiring confidence in people.
Studying has certainly sharpened my critical faculties (= taught me to think
carefully about things using my judgment) .
faculty noun COLLEGE
3. [ C ] a group of departments in a college which specialize in a particular subject
or group of subjects
the Arts/Law Faculty
the Faculty of Science
4. [ C ] US the people who teach in a department in a college
the FA Cup noun [ S ]
a competition for teams that belong to the Football Association, or the silver cup
which is given as a prize in this competition
Manchester United are hoping to win the FA Cup this year.
It's the FA Cup final next week.
last season's FA Cup finalists
fad noun [ C ]
a style, activity or interest which is very popular for a short period of time
the latest health fad
There was a fad for wearing ripped jeans a few years ago.
faddism noun [ U ]
a tendency to like a style, activity or interest for a very short period of time
faddist noun [ C ]
faddism noun [ U ]
faddist noun [ C ]
faddy adjective ( ALSO faddish )
liking or disliking particular things, especially food, for no good reason
I was a really faddy eater when I was young.
faddily adverb ( ALSO faddishly )
faddiness noun [ U ] ( ALSO faddishness )
fade verb [ I or T ]
to (cause to) lose colour, brightness or strength gradually
If you hang your clothes out in the bright sun, they will fade.
My suntan is already fading.
They arrived home just as the light was fading (= as it was going dark) .
The sun had faded the blue walls.
be fading away/fast
to be growing weaker and thinner and to be likely to die soon
fade away phrasal verb
to slowly disappear, lose importance or become weaker
The voices became louder and closer and then faded away again.
As the years passed, the memories faded away.
fade (sth) in phrasal verb [ I or M ]
If the picture or sound of a film or recording fades in, or someone fades it in, it
becomes gradually stronger.
fade ( sth ) out phrasal verb [ I or M ]
If the picture or sound of a film or recording fades out or someone fades it out, it
becomes gradually weaker.
faded adjective
less bright in colour than before
faded jeans
faded curtains/wallpaper
FIGURATIVE a faded beauty (= a woman who was beautiful in the past)
faeces , MAINLY US feces plural noun FORMAL
the solid waste passed out of the body of a human or animal through the bowels
The disease is spread by the contamination of food and water by faeces.
faecal , MAINLY US fecal adjective
faecal matter
faddism noun [ U ]
faddist noun [ C ]
faddy adjective ( ALSO faddish )
liking or disliking particular things, especially food, for no good reason
I was a really faddy eater when I was young.
faddily adverb ( ALSO faddishly )
faddiness noun [ U ] ( ALSO faddishness )
fade verb [ I or T ]
to (cause to) lose colour, brightness or strength gradually
If you hang your clothes out in the bright sun, they will fade.
My suntan is already fading.
They arrived home just as the light was fading (= as it was going dark) .
The sun had faded the blue walls.
be fading away/fast
to be growing weaker and thinner and to be likely to die soon
fade away phrasal verb
to slowly disappear, lose importance or become weaker
The voices became louder and closer and then faded away again.
As the years passed, the memories faded away.
fade (sth) in phrasal verb [ I or M ]
If the picture or sound of a film or recording fades in, or someone fades it in, it
becomes gradually stronger.
fade ( sth ) out phrasal verb [ I or M ]
If the picture or sound of a film or recording fades out or someone fades it out, it
becomes gradually weaker.
faded adjective
less bright in colour than before
faded jeans
faded curtains/wallpaper
FIGURATIVE a faded beauty (= a woman who was beautiful in the past)
faeces , MAINLY US feces plural noun FORMAL
the solid waste passed out of the body of a human or animal through the bowels
The disease is spread by the contamination of food and water by faeces.
faecal , MAINLY US fecal adjective
faecal matter
faff noun UK INFORMAL
be a faff
to need a lot of effort or cause slight problems
Stripping the walls was a real faff.
faff verb
faff about/around phrasal verb UK INFORMAL
to spend your time doing a lot of things which are not important instead of the
thing that you should be doing
I wish you'd stop faffing about and do something useful!
fag noun CIGARETTE
1. [ C ] UK SLANG a cigarette
a packet of fags
She's gone outside for a quick fag.
There were fag ends all over the floor.
fag noun HOMOSEXUAL
2. [ C ] US SLANG an offensive word for a homosexual man
fag noun TROUBLE
3. be a fag MAINLY UK INFORMAL
to be boring and tiring to do
It's such a fag to have to make your bed every morning.
fag noun YOUNG BOY
4. [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED (at some large British private schools) a younger boy
who has to do jobs for an older boy
the fag end of sth UK INFORMAL
the last, and often worst, part of something
We always used to go on holiday at the fag end of the holiday season.
fag verb [ I ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
If a younger boy fags for an older boy at a British private school, he does jobs for
him.
can't be fagged UK INFORMAL
If you can't be fagged to do something, you are unwilling to make the effort that
is needed to do it
I can't be fagged to walk all the way there.
ˌ fagged ( ˈ out) adjective MAINLY UK INFORMAL
tired and bored
faggot noun HOMOSEXUAL

1. [ C ] ( INFORMAL fag ) MAINLY US SLANG a homosexual man. This word is
considered offensive when it is used by people who are not homosexual.
faggot noun WOOD
2. ( US ALSO fagot ) [ C usually plural ] OLD-FASHIONED sticks of wood, tied together,
which are used as fuel for a fire
faggot noun FOOD
3. [ C usually plural ] UK a ball of meat mixed with bread and herbs, which is fried
or cooked in sauce
ˈ fag ˌ hag noun [ C ] SLANG
a woman who likes to spend time with homosexual men
fah , fa noun [ S or U ]
the fourth note in the sol-fa musical scale
Fahrenheit adjective , noun [ U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION F )
of a measurement of temperature on a standard in which 32° is the temperature
at which water freezes and 212° that at which it boils
Shall I give you the temperature in Celsius or in Fahrenheit?
It was 80°F in the shade.
Data are recorded in degrees Fahrenheit.
Compare Celsius
fail verb NOT SUCCEED
1. [ I ] to not succeed in what you are trying to achieve or are expected to do
She moved to London in the hope of finding work as a model, but failed.
This method of growing tomatoes never fails.
He failed in his attempt to break the record.
[ + to infinitive ] She failed to reach the Wimbledon Final this year.
The reluctance of either side to compromise means that the talks are doomed to
(= will certainly) fail.
2. if all else fails
if none of our plans succeed
If all else fails, we can always spend the holidays at home.
fail verb EXAMINATION
3. [ I or T ] to be unsuccessful, or to judge that someone has been unsuccessful
in a test or examination
I passed in history but failed in chemistry.
A lot of people fail their driving test the first time.
The examiners failed him because he hadn't answered enough questions.
fail verb NOT DO
4. [ I ] to not do something which you should do
[ + to infinitive ] He failed to arrive on time.
The club had been promised a grant from the council, but the money failed to (=
did not) materialize.
You couldn't fail to be (= It is impossible that you would not be) affected by the
film.
I'd be failing in my duty if I didn't tell you about the risks involved in the project.
5. fail to see/understand
used when you do not accept something
I fail to see wh y you can't work on a Saturday.
fail verb STOP
6. [ I ] to become weaker or stop working completely
If my eyesight fails, I'll have to stop doing this job.
The brakes failed and the car crashed into a tree.
After talking non-stop for two hours, her voice started to fail.
The old man was failing fast (= He was dying) .
7. [ I ] If a business fails, it is unable to continue because of money problems.
fail verb NOT HELP
8. [ T ] to not help someone when they expected you to
He failed her when she most needed him.
When I looked down and saw how far I had to jump, my courage failed me (= I
felt very frightened) .
fail noun [ C ]
1. an unsuccessful result in a course, test or examination
John got three passes and four fails in his exams.
fail noun [ C ]
2. without fail
a. If you do something without fail, you always do it
I go to the gym every Monday and Wednesday, without fail.
b. used to tell someone that they must do something
Be there at nine o'clock, without fail.
failed adjective [ before noun ]
having not succeeded
a failed actress/writer
She has two failed marriages behind her.
failed adjective [ before noun ]
having not succeeded
a failed actress/writer
She has two failed marriages behind her.
failing noun [ C ]
a fault or weakness
His one big failing is that he never says he's sorry.
failing preposition
if that is not possible
Give her a book, or failing that , buy her something to wear.
Appointments are available on the 2nd and the 6th of this month but failing either
of those, we could fit you in on the 15th.
failing adjective
becoming weaker or less successful
a failing business
failing eyesight
In the failing light, it was hard to read the signposts.
fail-safe adjective
1. very unlikely to fail
a fail-safe plan
2. If something is fail-safe, it has been designed so that if one part of it does not
work, the whole thing does not become dangerous
a fail-safe device
failure noun NO SUCCESS
1. [ C or U ] when someone or something does not succeed
The meeting was a complete/total failure.
I'm a bit of a failure at making (= I cannot make) cakes.
I feel such a failure (= so unsuccessful) .
Their attempt to climb the Eiger ended in failure.
The whole project was doomed to failure right from the start (= It could never
have succeeded) .
failure noun NOT DO
2. [ U + to infinitive ] when you do not do something that you must do or are
expected to do
His failure to return her phone call told her that something was wrong.
Failure to keep the chemical at the right temperature could lead to an explosion.
failure noun STOP
3. [ C or U ] when something does not work, or stops working as well as it should
He died of heart/liver failure.
The accident was caused by the failure of the reactor's cooling system.
The number of business failures rose steeply last year.
After three crop failures in a row, the people face starvation.
faint adjective SLIGHT
1. not strong or clear; slight
a faint sound/noise/smell
The lamp gave out a faint glow.
She gave me a faint smile of recognition.
There's not the faintest hope of ever finding him.
She bears a faint resemblance to my sister.
I have a faint suspicion that you may be right!
2. not have the faintest idea INFORMAL
used to emphasize that you do not know something
"Is she going to stay?" "I haven't the faintest idea."
I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about!
faint adjective BECOMING UNCONSCIOUS
3. feel faint
to feel weak, as if you are about to become unconscious
She felt faint with hunger.
Faint heart never won fair lady. OLD-FASHIONED SAYING
used to tell someone that they must make a lot of effort if they want to achieve
something difficult
faint verb [ I ]
to suddenly become unconscious for a short time, usually falling down
He faints at the sight of blood.
I nearly fainted in the heat.
She took one look at the hypodermic needle and fainted (dead) away (= became
unconscious immediately) .
faint noun [ S ]
when someone suddenly becomes unconscious
On receiving the news, she fell into a dead faint.
faint-hearted adjective [ before noun ]

describes someone who is not confident or brave and dislikes taking unnecessary
risks
The terrorist threat in the region has kept faint-hearted tourists away.
faint-hearted plural noun
the faint-hearted
people who are not brave
The drive along the winding coast road is not for the faint-hearted.
faintly adverb
slightly or not strongly
She seemed faintly embarrassed to see us there.
A light flickered faintly in the distance.
faintness noun [ U ] NOT CLEAR
1. the quality of not being strong or clear
The faintness of the handwriting made the manuscript difficult to read.
faintness noun [ U ] BECOMING UNCONSCIOUS
2. the feeling that you are about to become unconscious
Faintness and morning sickness can be signs that you are pregnant.
fair adjective RIGHT
1. treating someone in a way that is right or reasonable, or treating a group of
people equally and not allowing personal opinions to influence your judgment
a fair trial
Why should I have to do all the cleaning? It's not fair!
It's not fair on Joe (= It is not right) to make him do all the work!
It's not fair that she's allowed to go and I'm not!
It's not fair to blame me for everything!
She's scrupulously fair with all her employees (= she treats them all equally) .
She claims her article was a fair comment on (= a reasonable thing to say about)
a matter of public interest.
He offered to do all the cleaning if I did all the cooking, which seemed like a fair
(= reasonable) deal .
2. If something, such as a price or share, is fair, it is reasonable and is what you
expect or deserve
I thought it was a fair price that she was offering.
I'm willing to do my fair (= equal) share of the work.
All the workers want is a fair wage for the work that they do.
3. If a game or competition is fair, it is done according to the rules
It was a fair fight.
4. it's only fair
it is the right way to treat someone and what they deserve
I think it's only fair to tell you that we have had over 300 applications for this job.
5. it's fair to say
it is true to say
I think it's fair to say (that) you've done less of the work than I have.
6. to be fair
considering everything that has an effect on a situation, so that a fair judgment
can be made
He's done the job badly but, to be fair, I gave him very little time to do it.
7. fair enough UK INFORMAL
something you say to show that you understand why someone has done or said
something
"I'm just annoyed with him because he's behaved so badly." "Fair enough."
8. Fair's fair ( ALSO fair do's ) INFORMAL
something that you say when you want someone to behave reasonably or treat
you the same as other people
Come on, it's my turn. Fair's fair!
9. a fair hearing
an opportunity to explain something or give your opinions, without other people
trying to influence the situation
He didn't feel he got a fair hearing in court.
10. fair and square
a. in an honest way and without any doubt
We won the match fair and square.
b. UK ( US squarely ) If you hit someone fair and square on a particular part of
their body, you hit them hard, exactly on that part
He hit me fair and square on the nose.
fair adjective PALE
11. (of skin) pale, or (of hair) pale yellow or gold
She's got fair hair and blue eyes.
a fair complexion
My sister's dark and my brother's fair (= He has fair hair) .
He's fair -haired .
All my family are fair -skinned .
fair adjective QUITE LARGE
12. [ before noun ] quite large
We've had a fair amount of rain this week.
We've had a fair number of applicants.
It's a fair -sized garden.
We've come a long way, but there's still a fair way (= quite a long distance) to
go.
fair adjective AVERAGE
13. [ after verb ] neither very good nor very bad
Films are rated on a scale of poor, fair, good and excellent.
I was fair at science but it was never my thing.
fair adjective QUITE GOOD
14. [ before noun ] (of an idea, guess or chance) good, but not excellent
I think I've got a fair idea of (= I understand reasonably well) what you want.
She's got a fair chance of winning (= There is a reasonable chance that she will
win) .
fair adjective WEATHER
15. (of weather) pleasant and dry
Fair weather was forecast for the following day.
fair adjective BEAUTIFUL
16. OLD USE (of a woman) beautiful
a fair maiden
All's fair in love and war. SAYING
in love and war you do not have to obey the usual rules about reasonable
behaviour
by fair means or foul
If you try to achieve something by fair means or foul, you use any method you
can to achieve it, even if it is not honest or fair.
a fair crack of the whip UK ( US a fair shake )
an equal chance to do something
It's only right that all the candidates should be given a fair crack of the whip.
fair to middling INFORMAL
not very good but not bad
"What's your French like?" "Oh, fair to middling."
it's a fair cop UK INFORMAL
something you say when someone has caught you doing something wrong and
you agree that you were wrong
with your own fair hand(s) HUMOROUS
used to say that you have made something yourself
"Where did you get this cake?" "I made it with my own fair hands."
fair noun [ C ]
1. a large public event where goods are bought and sold, usually from tables
which have been specially arranged for the event, and where there is often
entertainment
I bought a wooden salad bowl at the local craft fair.
fair
2. ( UK ALSO funfair , US ALSO carnival ) an outside event where you can ride large
machines for pleasure and play games to win prizes
3. a large show at which people who work in a particular industry meet, and sell
and advertise their products
a book/antiques/toy fair
a trade fair
4. a public event in the countryside where farm animals and farm products are
sold
a cattle/agricultural fair
US a county/state fair
5. MAINLY US FOR fête (EVENT)
ˌ fair ˈ copy noun [ C usually singular ]
the final, corrected copy of a piece of written work
fairy-tale , fairytale adjective [ before noun ] APPROVING

having a special and attractive or beautiful quality, like something in a fairy tale
They had a fairy-tale wedding .
Sadly, there was no fairy-tale happy ending to the story.
fait accompli noun [ C ]
an action which has already been done and which cannot be changed
The policy change was presented to us as a fait accompli, without consultation
or discussion.
faith noun TRUST
1. [ U ] great trust or confidence in something or someone
She has no faith in modern medicine.
You'll cope - I have great faith in you.
After the trial, his family said they had lost all faith in the judicial system.
Ministers must start keeping their promises if they want to restore faith in the
government.
faith noun RELIGION
2. [ C ] a particular religion
the Muslim/Christian/Jewish/Buddhist faith
They were persecuted for their faith.
He was forced to practise his faith in secret.
a multi- faith society
They were brought up in the true faith (= the religion which the speaker believes
is the only true one) .
3. [ U ] strong belief in God or a particular religion
Even in the bad times she never lost her faith.
Her faith in God was shattered when her baby died.
It's my faith that keeps me going.
accept/take sth on faith
to be willing to believe something without proof
Faith can move mountains. SAYING
This means if someone's beliefs and confidence are strong enough, they can
achieve something that is very difficult.
Have faith!
If you tell someone to have faith, you are encouraging them to stay confident
Have faith! It'll be all right in the end.
keep faith with sth/sb
to continue to support something or someone, or to do what you promised to do
in a particular thing
Despite the continuing recession, the government has asked people to keep faith
with its reforms.
The company has not kept faith with its promise to invest in training.
put/place your faith in sth/sb
to make a decision to trust something or someone
Some people put their faith in strong leaders rather than sound policies.
faith-based adjective MAINLY US
relating to organizations or government ideas and plans which are based on
Christian religions beliefs
a faith-based counselling organization
faith-based adjective MAINLY US

relating to organizations or government ideas and plans which are based on
Christian religions beliefs
a faith-based counselling organization
faithful adjective LOYAL
1. loyal
a faithful friend
They are faithful supporters of the Labour Party.
His faithful old dog accompanied him everywhere he went.
2. If your husband, wife or partner is faithful, they do not have a sexual
relationship with anyone else
Was your wife faithful during your marriage?
He was faithful to his wife throughout their 30-year marriage.
3. faithful to sth
continuing to support or follow something
He remained faithful to the president's regime when so many others spoke out
against it.
Despite persecution, she remained faithful to her beliefs.
faithful adjective ACCURATE
4. true or not changing any of the details, facts, style, etc. of the original
She gave a faithful account of what had happened on that night.
I have tried to keep my translation as faithful as possible to the original book.
faithful adjective RELIGIOUS
5. following a particular religion
faithful Christians
faithful followers of Buddhism
faithful noun SUPPORTER
[ C ] someone who continues to support someone or something
He gave a rousing speech to a room full of party faithfuls.
faithful noun RELIGIOUS PEOPLE
faithful plural noun
the faithful
a. people who are always loyal to a particular group or organization, especially a
political party
They asked for donations from the party faithful.
b. the people who believe in a particular religion
We heard bells calling the faithful to prayer.
faithfully adverb LOYALLY
1. in a loyal way or a way that can be trusted
He served the family faithfully for 40 years.
She promised faithfully (= made a firm promise) that she would never leave him.
2. Yours faithfully
MAINLY UK used at the end of a formal letter beginning with 'Dear Sir' or 'Dear
Madam'
faithfully adverb ACCURATELY
3. in a way that is true or accurate
I always follow the instructions on medicine bottles faithfully (= exactly) .

2. Yours faithfully
Madam'
faithfulness noun [ U ]
the quality of being faithful to someone or something
The bishop stressed the importance of faithfulness in marriage.
ˈ faith ˌ healer noun [ C ]
a person who heals using the power of prayer and belief
faith healing noun [ U ]
Despite all the advances in modern medicine, demand for alternative therapies
and faith healing keeps growing.
faithless adjective NOT LOYAL
1. not loyal and not able to be trusted
2. not faithful sexually to your marriage partner or usual sexual partner
a faithless husband
faithless adjective NOT RELIGIOUS
3. with no religious faith
faithlessly adverb
faithlessness noun [ U ]
ˈ faith ˌ school noun [ C ]
a school that is financially supported by a particular religious group, usually for
children from that religion
a Muslim faith school
fajita noun [ C ]
a Mexican dish of meat and vegetables cut into strips, cooked and wrapped inside
a tortilla (= thin, round bread)
fake noun [ C ]
1. an object which is made to look real or valuable in order to deceive people
Experts revealed that the painting was a fake.
The gun in his hand was a fake.
2. someone who is not what or who they say they are
After working for ten years as a doctor, he was exposed as a fake.
fake adjective
not real, but made to look or seem real
He was charged with possessing a fake passport.
fake fur/blood
fake verb FEELING/ILLNESS
1. [ I or T ] to pretend that you have a feeling or illness
to fake surprise
to fake an orgasm
She didn't want to go out, so she faked a headache.
He faked a heart attack and persuaded prison staff to take him to hospital.
He isn't really crying, he's just faking.
fake verb OBJECT
2. [ T ] to make an object look real or valuable in order to deceive people
to fake a document/signature
faker noun [ C ]
ˌ fake ˈ tan noun [ C or U ]
a substance that you put on your skin to make it look darker as if you have been
in the sun
Use a fake tan to make yourself look less pale.

2. Yours faithfully
Madam'
faithfulness noun [ U ]
the quality of being faithful to someone or something
The bishop stressed the importance of faithfulness in marriage.
ˈ faith ˌ healer noun [ C ]
a person who heals using the power of prayer and belief
faith healing noun [ U ]
Despite all the advances in modern medicine, demand for alternative therapies
and faith healing keeps growing.
faithless adjective NOT LOYAL
1. not loyal and not able to be trusted
2. not faithful sexually to your marriage partner or usual sexual partner
a faithless husband
faithless adjective NOT RELIGIOUS
3. with no religious faith
faithlessly adverb
faithlessness noun [ U ]
ˈ faith ˌ school noun [ C ]
a school that is financially supported by a particular religious group, usually for
children from that religion
a Muslim faith school
fajita noun [ C ]
a Mexican dish of meat and vegetables cut into strips, cooked and wrapped inside
a tortilla (= thin, round bread)
fake noun [ C ]
1. an object which is made to look real or valuable in order to deceive people
Experts revealed that the painting was a fake.
The gun in his hand was a fake.
2. someone who is not what or who they say they are
After working for ten years as a doctor, he was exposed as a fake.
fake adjective
not real, but made to look or seem real
He was charged with possessing a fake passport.
fake fur/blood
fake verb FEELING/ILLNESS
1. [ I or T ] to pretend that you have a feeling or illness
to fake surprise
to fake an orgasm
She didn't want to go out, so she faked a headache.
He faked a heart attack and persuaded prison staff to take him to hospital.
He isn't really crying, he's just faking.
fake verb OBJECT
2. [ T ] to make an object look real or valuable in order to deceive people
to fake a document/signature
faker noun [ C ]
ˌ fake ˈ tan noun [ C or U ]
a substance that you put on your skin to make it look darker as if you have been
in the sun
Use a fake tan to make yourself look less pale.
fakir , faqir noun [ C ]
a member of an Islamic religious group, or a Hindu holy man
falafel noun [ C or U ]
felafel
falcon noun [ C ]
falcon
a bird with pointed wings and a long tail which can be trained to hunt other birds
and small animals
falconer noun [ C ]
a person who keeps and often trains falcons for hunting
falconry noun [ U ]
the sport of hunting small animals and birds using falcons
a falconry display/course/centre
fall verb HAVE AN ACCIDENT
1. [ I ] to suddenly go down onto the ground or towards the ground without
intending to or by accident
The path's very steep, so be careful you don't fall.
He fell badly and broke his leg.
Athletes have to learn how to fall without hurting themselves.
She fell under a bus and was killed instantly.
The horse fell at the first fence.
I fell down the stairs and injured my back.
She had fallen, it appeared, from a great height.
The water's deep here, so don't fall in !
He fell into the river and drowned.
If you fell off the roof, you'd kill yourself.
He was leaning out of the window and fell out .
She fell five metres to the bottom of the ravine.
He fell to his death climbing the Matterhorn.
2. fall flat on your face INFORMAL
to fall and land with your face down
Poor Kathy fell flat on her face in the mud.
fall verb BECOME LOWER
3. [ I ] to become lower in size, amount or strength
Demand for new cars has fallen due to the recession.
The standard of his work has fallen during the year.
Salaries in the public sector are expected to fall by 15% this year.
The temperature could fall below zero overnight.
Average temperatures fell by ten degrees.
The pound has fallen to its lowest-ever level against the dollar.
When the teacher walked in, the children's voices fell to a whisper (= they
became very quiet) .
Share prices fell sharply this week.
fall verb COME DOWN
4. [ I ] to come down onto the ground or from a high position to a lower position
The snow had been falling steadily all day.
You can tell it's autumn because the leaves have started to fall.
She fell into bed, completely exhausted.
A bomb fell on the church and destroyed it.
A huge meteor fell to Earth in the middle of the desert.
He begged for mercy as the blows fell on him (= as he was being hit) .
5. fall to your knees ( ALSO fall down on your knees )
to go down on your knees to show respect
The people all fell to their knees and began to pray.
6. [ I ] When the curtain falls in the theatre, it comes down because the play or
performance has ended
The audience was still laughing as the curtain fell.
fall verb BELONG TO
7. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to belong to a particular group, subject or
area
The material falls into three categories.
Matters of discipline fall outside my area of responsibility.
fall verb BECOME
8. [ I + adverb or preposition L ] to change to a particular condition from a
different one
He always falls asleep after drinking red wine.
Your rent falls due (= must be paid) on the first of the month.
She suddenly fell ill .
The book fell open (= opened by chance) at the page on Venice.
The government has fallen strangely silent on the subject of tax cuts after all its
promises at the last election.
Silence fell on the group of men (= They became silent) as they received the
news.
She fell under the influence of (= began to be influenced by) an older student.
fall verb BE DEFEATED
9. [ I ] to be beaten or defeated
The government finally fell after losing the support of the centre parties.
The president fell from power during the military coup.
10. [ I ] If a place falls in a war or an election, an enemy army or a different
political party gets control of it
Rome fell to the Vandals in 455 AD.
The constituency fell to Labour at the last election, after ten years of Conservative
rule.
11. [ I ] LITERARY If soldiers fall while fighting, they are killed
Many brave men fell in the fight to save the city.
During the war, he saw many of his comrades fall in battle .
12. [ I ] In cricket, when a wicket falls, the turn of the player who is hitting the
ball ends
Ten wickets fell in 22 overs.
fall verb HAPPEN
13. [ I ] to come at a particular time or happen in a particular place
Easter falls late this year.
My birthday will fall on a Friday this year.
Night/Darkness had fallen by the time we got back to the camp.
In the word 'table', the accent falls on the first syllable.
The Treasury has still not decided where the cuts will fall.
fall verb HANG DOWN
14. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to hang down loosely
The boy's hair fell around his shoulders in golden curls.
The veil fell almost to her waist.
fall verb UNHAPPY
15. your face/spirits fall
If your face falls, you suddenly look unhappy or disappointed, and if your spirits
fall, you suddenly feel unhappy or disappointed
His spirits fell when he saw the distance he still had to go.
As she read her exam results, her face fell.
fall between two stools
If something falls between two stools, it fails to achieve either of two aims
The grammar guide falls between two stools - it's too difficult for a beginner but
not detailed enough for an advanced student.
fall by the wayside
If someone falls by the wayside, they fail to finish an activity, and if something
falls by the wayside, people stop doing it, making it, or using it
So why does one company survive a recession while its competitors fall by the
wayside?
fall flat
If a joke, idea or suggestion falls flat, it does not have the intended effect
He made several jokes and each of them fell flat.
fall foul of sth
to break a rule or law, especially without intending to
Manufacturers may fall foul of the new government guidelines.
fall foul of sb
to have a disagreement with someone
Things were going well for her till she fell foul of the director.
fall in love
to be very attracted to someone and begin to love them
They met and fell madly in love.
He fell in love with a young German student.
I thought I was falling in love.
fall prey/victim to sth/sb
to suddenly begin to suffer as a result of something or someone bad
Police fear that more pensioners could fall prey to the thieves.
fall short
to fail to reach an amount or standard that was expected or hoped for, causing
disappointment
August car sales fell short of the industry's expectations.
nearly/almost fall off your chair INFORMAL
to be extremely surprised
She nearly fell off her chair when she heard her exam result.
fall about phrasal verb ( ALSO fall about laughing ) UK INFORMAL
to laugh uncontrollably
We fell about when we heard her reply.
fall apart phrasal verb BREAK
1. to break into pieces
My poor old boots are falling apart.
fall apart phrasal verb STOP WORKING
2. If an organization, system or agreement falls apart, it fails or stops working
effectively
The deal fell apart because of a lack of financing.
Their marriage fell apart when she found out about her husband's affair.
fall apart phrasal verb EMOTIONS
3. INFORMAL to experience serious emotional problems that make you unable to
think or act in the usual way
After his wife died, he began to fall apart.
fall away phrasal verb BREAK
1. If parts of something fall away, they break off and drop to the ground
On the bathroom ceiling, some pieces of plaster had fallen away.
The rear sections of the rocket fell away.
fall away phrasal verb TIME
2. LITERARY If a period of time falls away, it seems as if it has not happened
As she looked at him, the years fell away, and she saw him again as a young boy.
fall away phrasal verb LAND
3. If land falls away, it slopes down suddenly
On the other side of the hill, the land falls away sharply .
fall away/off phrasal verb
to become smaller or lower in amount or rate
Membership of the club has fallen away in recent months.
fall back phrasal verb
1. LITERARY to move back suddenly from someone or something, often because you
are frightened
She fell back in horror/disgust.
2. If an army falls back, it moves away from an enemy army in order to avoid
fighting them
The infantry fell back in disarray.
fall back on sth phrasal verb
to use something for help because no other choice is available
When the business failed, we had to fall back on our savings.
If I lose my job, I'll have nothing to fall back on.
fall behind phrasal verb
to fail to do something fast enough or on time
He was ill for six weeks and fell behind with his schoolwork.
I've fallen behind with the mortgage payments.
fall down phrasal verb FALL
1. to fall to the ground
Our apple tree fell down in the storm.
He stumbled and fell down.
2. If a building is falling down, it is in a very bad condition and there is a risk that
it will break into pieces and drop to the ground
Many buildings in the old part of the city are falling down.
fall down phrasal verb FAIL
3. to fail
Where do you think the plan falls down?
fall down on sth phrasal verb
to not be good at something in comparison with another thing
I'm quite good at speaking Chinese, but I fall down on the written work.
fall for sb phrasal verb INFORMAL
to suddenly have strong romantic feelings about someone
She always falls for unsuitable men.
He's fallen for her in a big way.
fall for sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
1. to be tricked into believing something that is not true
He told me he owned a mansion in Spain and I fell for it.
2. I'm not falling for that one! INFORMAL
said when you recognize a trick and refuse to be deceived by it
"Lend me a fiver and I'll buy you a drink." "Oh no, I'm not falling for that one."
fall from sth phrasal verb
fall from sb's lips LITERARY
When words or sounds fall from your lips, you speak or make them
Not a single sound fell from her lips.
fall in phrasal verb ROOF
1. If a roof or ceiling falls in, it drops to the ground because it is damaged
Ten miners were trapped underground when the roof of the tunnel fell in.
fall in phrasal verb SOLDIERS
2. If soldiers fall in, they move into a line, one at the side of the other
"Company, fall in!" shouted the sergeant-major.
He started to march away, and the others fell in behind him.
Compare fall out
fall in line ( ALSO fall into line )
If a person in an organization falls in/into line, they start to follow the rules and
behave according to expected standards of behaviour
Teachers who fail to fall in line with the new regulations may face dismissal.
fall in with sb phrasal verb INFORMAL
to become friendly with someone
She fell in with a strange crowd of people at university.
fall in with sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
to accept and support a plan or suggestion
It seemed like a good idea so we just fell in with it.
fall into sth phrasal verb START
1. to start doing something, often without intending to
We've fallen into the habit of getting up late on Saturday mornings.
I fell into my job quite by accident.
She fell into a conversation with a man at the bar.
fall into sth phrasal verb CONDITION
2. to gradually get into a particular condition, especially to get into a bad
condition as a result of not being taken care of
Over the years the house had fallen into disrepair.
The old school fell into disuse (= people stopped using it) .
fall into sb's arms LITERARY
When people fall into each other's arms, they hold each other tightly with both
arms, to show their love for each other.
fall into place
1. When things fall into place, they happen in a satisfactory way, without
problems
If you plan the project well, then everything should fall into place.
2. When events or details that you did not understand before fall into place, they
become easy to understand
Once I discovered that the woman whom he had been dancing with was his
daughter, everything fell into place.
fall into the wrong hands
If something falls into the wrong hands, a dangerous person or an enemy starts
to own or control it
There are fears that the weapons might fall into the wrong hands.
fall into the/someone's trap
to make a mistake or get into a difficult situation by doing something or by
trusting someone
Don't fall into the trap of thinking you can learn a foreign language without doing
any work.
We fell right into the enemy's trap.
fall off phrasal verb
If the amount, rate or quality of something falls off, it becomes smaller or lower
Sales have been falling off recently.
fall on/upon sb phrasal verb LITERARY
to attack someone suddenly and unexpectedly
The soldiers fell on the villagers and seized all their weapons.
fall on/upon sth phrasal verb LITERARY NOTICE
1. If your eyes fall on something, or your sight, eyes, etc. falls on something, you
see and notice it
Her gaze fell upon a small box at the back of the shop.
fall on/upon sth phrasal verb LITERARY EAT
2. to start to eat food eagerly
They fell on the bread as if they hadn't eaten for days.
fall on deaf ears
If a suggestion or warning falls on deaf ears, no one listens to it
Their appeals to release the hostages fell on deaf ears.
fall on hard times
to lose your money and start to have a difficult life
The scheme is designed to help children whose parents have fallen on hard times.
fall on sb phrasal verb
suspicion falls on sb
When suspicion falls on a particular person, people think that they may be guilty
of doing something bad
He was the last person to see the woman alive, and suspicion immediately fell on
him.
fall out phrasal verb TOOTH/HAIR
1. If a tooth or your hair falls out, it becomes loose and separates from your
mouth or head
Her baby teeth are starting to fall out.
A side effect of the treatment is that your hair starts to fall out.
fall out phrasal verb ARGUE
2. INFORMAL to argue with someone and stop being friendly with them
He left home after falling out with his parents.
She'd fallen out with her boyfriend over his ex-girlfriend.
fall out phrasal verb SOLDIERS
3. If soldiers fall out, they move out of a line
"Fall out, men!" shouted the sergeant-major.
Compare fall in
fall over phrasal verb
1. If someone falls over, they fall to the ground
She tripped and fell over.
2. If something falls over, it falls onto its side
If you make the cake too high, it'll fall over.
fall over sth/sb phrasal verb LITERARY
to cover something or someone
A shadow fell over her work and she looked up to see who was there.
fall over your self UK ( US fall all over your self )
to be very eager to do something
Publishers are falling over themselves to produce non-fiction for seven-year-olds.
fall through phrasal verb
to fail to happen
We found a buyer for our house, but then the sale fell through.
fall to sb phrasal verb
1. to be or become the duty or job of someone
The worst job fell to me.
2. it falls to you FORMAL
it is your duty
It falls to me to thank you for all you have done for the association.
fall to phrasal verb LITERARY
to begin doing something energetically
There was a lot of work to do, so they fell to immediately.
fall noun LOWER AMOUNT
1. [ C usually singular ] when the size, amount or strength of something gets
lower
a fall in the price of petrol/the unemployment rate
We could hear the rise and fall of voices in the other room.
There was a fall in support for the Republican party at the last election.
fall noun SEASON
2. [ C or U ] US ( UK autumn ) the season after summer and before winter, when
fruits and crops become ripe and the leaves fall off the trees
Next fall we'll be back in New York.
They met in the fall of 1992.
fall noun ACCIDENT
3. [ C usually singular ] when someone or something falls down to the ground,
usually without intending to or by accident
He had/took a nasty fall and hurt his back.
the fall of the Berlin Wall (= when the Berlin Wall was destroyed)
fall noun MOVEMENT DOWNWARDS
4. [ C usually singular ] when something moves down onto the ground or from a
higher position to a lower position
a heavy fall of snow
See also rainfall
5. falls
often used in place names to mean a very wide waterfall, often made of many
separate waterfalls
Niagara Falls
fall noun DEFEAT
6. [ C usually singular ] when someone is defeated or loses their power
the fall of Rome
The army took control of the city after the president's fall from power.
take a/the fall for sb US INFORMAL
to accept the blame for something another person did
I wasn't going to take the fall for him.
fall from grace
when you do something which makes people in authority stop liking you or
admiring you
The Finance Minister's fall from grace gave the tabloid press great satisfaction.
fallacious adjective FORMAL
not correct
His argument is based on fallacious reasoning.
fallaciously adverb
fallaciousness noun [ U ]
fallacy noun [ C ] FORMAL
an idea that a lot of people think is true but which is false
[ + that ] It is a common fallacy that women are worse drivers than men.
fallback adjective [ before noun ]
describes a plan or position which can be used if other plans do not succeed or
other things are not available
Do we have a fallback position for these negotiations?
fallen adjective [ before noun ] LYING ON GROUND
1. lying on the ground, after falling down
A fallen tree was blocking the road.
2. having dropped down
fallen leaves
fallen adjective [ before noun ] DEFEATED
3. describes someone who has been defeated or has lost a position of power
The Education Minister will now join the ranks of other fallen politicians.
fallen plural noun FORMAL
the fallen
soldiers who have died in a war
a statue in memory of the fallen
fallen adjective [ before noun ] LYING ON GROUND
1. lying on the ground, after falling down
A fallen tree was blocking the road.
2. having dropped down
fallen leaves
fallen adjective [ before noun ] DEFEATED
3. describes someone who has been defeated or has lost a position of power
The Education Minister will now join the ranks of other fallen politicians.
fallen plural noun FORMAL
the fallen
soldiers who have died in a war
a statue in memory of the fallen
ˌ fallen ˈ idol noun [ C ]
a person who was admired in the past but is no longer admired because of
something bad they have done
ˌ fallen ˈ woman noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED DISAPPROVING
a woman who has lost her good reputation by having sex with someone before
she is married
ˈ fall ˌ guy noun [ C usually singular ] MAINLY US SLANG
a person who is falsely blamed for something that has gone wrong, or for a crime
that they have not committed
The governor was looking for a fall guy to take the blame for the corruption
scandal.
fallible adjective
1. able or likely to make mistakes
We place our trust in doctors, but even they are fallible.
2. A fallible object or system is likely not to work satisfactorily
This method is more fallible than most because it depends on careful and accurate
timing.
Opposite infallible
fallibility noun [ U ]
The play deals with the fallibility of human nature.
falling adjective
describes something that is becoming lower in size, amount or strength
falling birth/interest rates
falling standards
falling-off noun [ S ]
when a rate, amount or quantity becomes smaller or lower
Travel agencies have recorded a falling-off in bookings this summer.
falling-out noun [ S ] INFORMAL
an argument
Rachel and Fi have had a falling-out and they're not speaking to each other.
ˌ falling ˈ star noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR meteor
ˌ falling ˈ star noun [ C ]

INFORMAL FOR meteor
the ˌ Fall of ˈ Man noun [ S ] ( ALSO the Fall )
According to the Bible, the Fall (of Man) was the occasion when the first man and
woman did not obey the rules of God and were sent away from the garden of Eden .
fallopian tube noun [ C usually plural ] SPECIALIZED
either of the two tubes in a woman's body along which eggs travel from the
ovaries to the womb
fallout noun [ U ] NUCLEAR
1. the radioactive dust in the air after a nuclear explosion
Cancer deaths caused by fallout from weapons testing could rise to 2.4 million
over the next few centuries.
fallout noun [ U ] UNPLEASANT RESULT
2. the unpleasant results or effects of an action or event
The political fallout of the revelations has been immense.
ˈ fallout ˌ shelter noun [ C ]
a strong building, usually under the ground, intended to keep people safe from
the dust in the air after a nuclear explosion
fallow adjective LAND
1. describes land that is not planted with crops, in order to improve the quality of
the soil
Farmers are eligible for government support if they let a certain amount of land
lie fallow.
fallow adjective TIME
2. describes a period of time in which very little happens
August is a fallow period in British politics.
ˈ fallow ˌ deer noun [ C ]
a small deer of Europe and Asia which is grey in winter and pale brown with white
spots in summer
false adjective NOT REAL
1. not real, but made to look or seem real
false eyelashes/teeth
Modern office buildings have false floors, under which computer and telephone
wires can be laid.
false adjective NOT TRUE
2. DISAPPROVING not true, but made to seem true in order to deceive people
She was charged with giving false evidence in court.
When she was stopped by the police for speeding, she gave them a false name
and address.
He assumed a false identity (= pretended he was someone else) in order to
escape from the police.
3. under false pretences DISAPPROVING
If you do something under false pretences, you lie about who you are, what you
are doing, or what you intend to do, in order to get something
He was deported for entering the country under false pretences.
If you're not going to offer me a job, then you've brought me here under false
pretences (= you have deceived me in order to make me come here) .
false adjective NOT CORRECT
4. not correct
"Three plus three is seven. True or false?" "False."
The news report about the explosion turned out to be false.
You'll get a false impression/idea of the town if you only visit the university.
false adjective NOT SINCERE
5. DISAPPROVING not sincere or expressing real emotions
a false smile/laugh
I didn't like her - she seemed a bit false.
false adjective NOT LOYAL
6. A false friend is not loyal or cannot be trusted.
LITERARY DISAPPROVING
ˌ false ac ˈ counting noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the crime of changing or destroying records to get money
He faces 18 charges of fraud and false accounting.
ˌ false ac ˈ counting noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the crime of changing or destroying records to get money
He faces 18 charges of fraud and false accounting.
ˌ false a ˈ larm noun [ C ]
an occasion when people wrongly believe that something dangerous or unpleasant
is happening or will happen
Three fire engines rushed to the school only to discover it was a false alarm.
She thought she was pregnant, but it turned out to be a false alarm (= she
discovered she was not) .
ˌ false ˈ dawn noun [ C usually singular ]
something which seems to show that a successful period is beginning or that a
situation is improving when it is not
The increase in sales at the end of the year proved to be a false dawn.
ˌ false e ˈ conomy noun [ C usually singular ]
an action which saves money at the beginning but which, over a longer period of
time, results in more money being wasted than being saved
Buying cheap white goods is just a false economy - they're twice as likely to break
down.
ˌ false ˈ friend noun [ C ]
a word which is often confused with a word in another language because the two
words look or sound similar, but which has a different meaning
The French word 'actuellement' and the English word 'actually' are false friends.
falsehood noun FORMAL
1. [ U ] lying
She doesn't seem to understand the difference between truth and falsehood.
2. [ C ] a lie or a statement which is not correct
ˌ false ˈ hopes plural noun
confident feelings about something that might not be true
I don't want to raise any false hopes, but I believe your son is still alive.
ˌ false im ˈ prisonment noun [ C usually singular ] LEGAL
the limiting of someone's freedom without the authority or right to do so
He brought civil proceedings against the police for false imprisonment.
ˌ false im ˈ prisonment noun [ C usually singular ] LEGAL

the limiting of someone's freedom without the authority or right to do so
He brought civil proceedings against the police for false imprisonment.
falsely adverb NOT TRUE
1. in a way that is not true
He claimed, falsely, that he was married.
falsely adverb NOT CORRECTLY
2. wrongly
She was falsely accused of shoplifting.
falsely adverb NOT SINCERELY
3. DISAPPROVING in a way that is not sincere
She tends to adopt a falsely cheerful tone when she's upset about something.
ˌ false ˈ modesty noun [ U ]
when a person pretends to have a low opinion of their own abilities or
achievements
He shows great pride in his work and has no false modesty about his success.
ˌ false ˈ move noun [ C usually singular ]
an unwise action which is likely to have an unpleasant or dangerous effect
We can't afford to make any false moves once we're in enemy territory.
"One false move and you're dead! (= I will kill you) " shouted the gunman.
ˌ false ˈ start noun [ C usually singular ] RACE
1. when one competitor in a race starts too early, before the official signal to
begin
If an athlete makes a false start, the race must be restarted.
ˌ false ˈ start noun [ C usually singular ] PROBLEM
2. an attempt to do something which fails because you are not ready or not able
to do it
We had a couple of false starts because of computer problems, but now the
project is really under way.
falsetto noun [ C ]
a form of singing or speaking by men using an extremely high voice
For his role as a young boy, he had to speak in a high falsetto.
falsetto adjective , adverb
describes an extremely high voice
The lead singer has a falsetto voice.
to sing falsetto
falsetto noun [ C ]
a form of singing or speaking by men using an extremely high voice
For his role as a young boy, he had to speak in a high falsetto.
falsetto adjective , adverb
describes an extremely high voice
The lead singer has a falsetto voice.
to sing falsetto
falsies plural noun INFORMAL
thick soft pieces of material which can be worn inside a woman's clothing to make
her breasts look bigger
falsify verb [ T ]
DISAPPROVING to change something, such as a document, in order to deceive people
The certificate had clearly been falsified.
falsification noun [ U ]
falsification of evidence
falsity noun [ U ] ( ALSO falseness ) NOT CORRECT
1. when something is not correct
falsity noun [ U ] ( ALSO falseness ) NOT SINCERE
2. DISAPPROVING when something or someone is not sincere or does not express
real emotions
She left her career in television, saying she hated the falsity of it all.
falter verb [ I ]
1. to lose strength or purpose and stop, or almost stop
The dinner party conversation faltered for a moment.
Her friends never faltered in their belief in her.
Nigel's voice faltered and he stopped speaking.
2. to move awkwardly as if you might fall
The nurse saw him falter and made him lean on her.
faltering adjective
She took a few faltering steps.
This legislation is designed to stimulate the faltering economy.
falteringly adverb
fame noun [ U ]
when you are known or recognized by many people because of your
achievements, skills, etc
She first rose to fame as a singer at the age of 16.
She moved to London in search of fame and fortune .
The town's fame rests on its beautiful 14th-century abbey.
famed adjective
known or familiar to many people
It's a city famed for its ski slopes and casinos.
His famed calmness temporarily deserted him.
famed adjective
known or familiar to many people
It's a city famed for its ski slopes and casinos.
His famed calmness temporarily deserted him.
familiar adjective EASY TO RECOGNIZE
1. easy to recognize because of being seen, met, heard, etc. before
There were one or two familiar faces (= people I knew) .
The house looked strangely familiar, though she knew she'd never been there
before.
The street was familiar to me.
2. be familiar with sth/sb
to know something or someone well
I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with your poetry.
familiar adjective FRIENDLY
3. informal and friendly, sometimes in a way that is not respectful to someone
who is not a relation or close friend
"That'll be five pounds, dear", he said in an irritatingly familiar way.
He doesn't like to be too familiar with his staff.
familiarly adverb
Henry Channon, known familiarly as 'Chips'
be on familiar terms
to have a close and informal relationship
We had met before, but we were hardly (= not) on familiar terms.
familiar noun [ C ] OLD USE
a close friend, or a spirit in the shape of a cat, bird or other animal that is the
close companion of a witch
familiarity noun [ U ] KNOWLEDGE
1. a good knowledge of something, or the fact that you know it so well
Ellen's familiarity with pop music is astonishing.
I love the familiarity of my old chair.
familiarity noun [ U ] FRIENDLINESS
2. friendly and informal behaviour
His excessive familiarity offended her.
Familiarity breeds contempt. SAYING
said about someone you know very well and have stopped respecting because you
have seen all their bad qualities
familiarize verb
familiarize yourself with sth , UK USUALLY familiarise yourself with sth phrasal verb [ R ]
to learn about something
We spent a few minutes familiarizing ourselves with the day's schedule.
familiarize verb
familiarize yourself with sth , UK USUALLY familiarise yourself with sth phrasal verb [ R ]
to learn about something
We spent a few minutes familiarizing ourselves with the day's schedule.
family noun SOCIAL GROUP
1. [ + singular or plural verb C or U ] a group of people who are related to each
other, such as a mother, a father, and their children
A new family has/have moved in next door.
I come from a large family - I have three brothers and two sisters.
He hasn't any family.
He's American but his family (= relatives in the past) come/comes from Ireland.
This film is good family entertainment (= something that can be enjoyed by
parents and children together) .
How does family life (= being married, having children, etc.) suit you?
2. [ + singular or plural verb C usually singular U ] the children of a family
Women shouldn't have to choose between career and family (= having children) .
Paul and Alison are hoping to start a family (= have children) soon.
My dad died when we were small so my mum raised the family on her own.
3. [ + singular or plural verb C ] a pair of adult animals and their babies
We've got a family of squirrels living in our garden.
family noun BIOLOGICAL GROUP
4. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a large group of related types of animal or plant
The lion is a member of the cat family.
be in the family way OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
to be pregnant
ˌ family al ˈ lowance noun [ U ]
UK OLD-FASHIONED FOR child benefit
ˌ family ˈ circle noun [ C usually singular ]
Your family circle are your close relations.
ˌ family ˈ credit noun [ U ]
a payment made by the government in Britain to families with a low income
ˌ family ˈ doctor noun [ C ]
a GP
family-friendly adjective
child-friendly
ˈ family ˌ man noun [ C ]
a man who has a wife and children, or who enjoys spending a lot of time with
them
ˈ family ˌ name noun [ C ]
a surname
ˌ family ˈ planning noun [ U ]
the use of contraception (= method of preventing a woman becoming pregnant)
to control how many children you have and when you have them
a family-planning clinic

ˌ family ˈ tree noun [ C ]
a drawing that shows the relationships between the different members of a
family, especially over a long period of time
famine noun [ C or U ]
when there is not enough food for a great number of people, causing illness and
death, or a particular period when this happens
Another crop failure could result in widespread famine.
There were reports of refugees dying of famine.
Thousands of people emigrated during the Irish potato famine of 1845-46.
famished adjective INFORMAL
extremely hungry
Have some dinner with us - you must be famished!
famous adjective
known and recognized by many people
a famous actress/building
Marie Curie is famous for her contribution to science.
a city famous for its nightlife
famous last words INFORMAL
said when someone makes a definite statement which is shown very soon, and in
an embarrassing way, to be wrong
I told him categorically that we could never be anything more than friends.
Famous last words! Within a few months we were engaged.
famously adverb
1. OLD-FASHIONED extremely well
We got along famously.
famously adverb
2. in a famous way
He's designed dresses for many celebrities, most famously the Queen.
fan noun [ C ] PERSON
1. someone who admires and supports a person, sport, sports team, etc
More than 15, 000 Liverpool fans attended Saturday's game.
He's a big fan of country music.
I'm pleased to meet you - I'm a great fan of your work.
fan noun [ C ] OBJECT/PIECE OF EQUIPMENT
fan
2. a device that is used to move the air around, either an object made of folded
paper or other material that you wave with your hand, or an electric device with wide
blades that spin round
There was no air conditioning, just a ceiling fan turning slowly.
fan verb [ T ] AIR
1. to wave a fan, or something that acts as a fan, in front of your face
[ R ] It was so hot in the car that I tried to fan myself with the road map.
She sat down and began fanning her face.
2. to blow air at a fire to make it burn more strongly
fan verb [ T ] MAKE WORSE
3. LITERARY to encourage bad emotions or behaviour to get worse
to fan the violence/hatred
The newspapers deliberately fanned the public's fears of losing their jobs.
fan the flames
to make a dangerous or unpleasant mood or situation worse
His speeches fanned the flames of racial tension.
fan out phrasal verb
If a group of people fan out, they move in different directions from a single point.
ˌ family ˈ tree noun [ C ]
a drawing that shows the relationships between the different members of a
family, especially over a long period of time
famine noun [ C or U ]
when there is not enough food for a great number of people, causing illness and
death, or a particular period when this happens
Another crop failure could result in widespread famine.
There were reports of refugees dying of famine.
Thousands of people emigrated during the Irish potato famine of 1845-46.
famished adjective INFORMAL
extremely hungry
Have some dinner with us - you must be famished!
famous adjective
known and recognized by many people
a famous actress/building
Marie Curie is famous for her contribution to science.
a city famous for its nightlife
famous last words INFORMAL
said when someone makes a definite statement which is shown very soon, and in
an embarrassing way, to be wrong
I told him categorically that we could never be anything more than friends.
Famous last words! Within a few months we were engaged.
famously adverb
1. OLD-FASHIONED extremely well
We got along famously.
famously adverb
2. in a famous way
He's designed dresses for many celebrities, most famously the Queen.
fan noun [ C ] PERSON
1. someone who admires and supports a person, sport, sports team, etc
More than 15, 000 Liverpool fans attended Saturday's game.
He's a big fan of country music.
I'm pleased to meet you - I'm a great fan of your work.
fan noun [ C ] OBJECT/PIECE OF EQUIPMENT
fan
2. a device that is used to move the air around, either an object made of folded
paper or other material that you wave with your hand, or an electric device with wide
blades that spin round
There was no air conditioning, just a ceiling fan turning slowly.
fan verb [ T ] AIR
1. to wave a fan, or something that acts as a fan, in front of your face
[ R ] It was so hot in the car that I tried to fan myself with the road map.
She sat down and began fanning her face.
2. to blow air at a fire to make it burn more strongly
fan verb [ T ] MAKE WORSE
3. LITERARY to encourage bad emotions or behaviour to get worse
to fan the violence/hatred
The newspapers deliberately fanned the public's fears of losing their jobs.
fan the flames
to make a dangerous or unpleasant mood or situation worse
His speeches fanned the flames of racial tension.
fan out phrasal verb
If a group of people fan out, they move in different directions from a single point.
fanatic noun [ C ]
a person whose strong admiration for something is considered to be extreme or
unreasonable
a fitness/film fanatic
fanatical adjective
describes someone whose admiration for something is considered to be extreme
or unreasonable
His enthusiasm for aerobics was almost fanatical.
Gary's fanatical about football.
fanatically adverb
The band has a fanatically loyal British following.
fanaticism noun [ U ]
ˈ fan ˌ belt noun [ C ]
a strip of material that moves round continuously to make a fan turn and keep an
engine cool
fanciable adjective UK INFORMAL
sexually attractive
This Ben bloke - is he fanciable?
fancied adjective MAINLY UK
expected or thought likely to succeed
She is the most fancied candidate for the next election.
fancier noun [ C ]
someone who has an interest in and breeds a particular animal or plant
a pigeon fancier
fanciful adjective
not realistic
He has some fanciful notion about converting one room of his apartment into a
gallery.
fancifully adverb
ˈ fan ˌ club noun [ C ]
an organization for people who admire the same music star, football team, etc.
fancy verb LIKE
1. [ T ] MAINLY UK to want to have or do something
Do you fancy a drink this evening?
[ + -ing verb ] I didn't fancy swimm ing in that water.
2. [ T ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL to be sexually attracted to someone
He could tell she fancied him.
3. fancy yourself
MAINLY UK DISAPPROVING to think you are very attractive or important
That Dave really fancies himself, doesn't he?
fancy verb IMAGINE
4. [ I or T ] to imagine or think that something is so
[ + ( that ) ] UK I fancied (that) I saw something moving in the corner.
[ R ] He fancies himself as a bit of a singer.
[ + to infinitive ] Who do you fancy to win the Cup this year?
UK OLD-FASHIONED This isn't the first time this has happened, I fancy.
5. fancy! ( ALSO fancy that! ) UK OLD-FASHIONED
an expression of surprise
"They have eight children." "Fancy that!
fancy sb's chances MAINLY UK
to think that someone is likely to succeed
I don't fancy his chances of getting his novel published.
fancy adjective DECORATIVE
1. decorative or complicated
I wanted a simple black dress, nothing fancy.
The decor was rather fancy for my tastes.
fancy cakes
fancy adjective EXPENSIVE
2. INFORMAL expensive
We stayed in a fancy hotel near the Champs-Élysées.
a fancy restaurant
fancy noun STH/SB YOU LIKE
1. passing fancy
something that you like very much for a short period
But for me, parachuting was no passing fancy.
2. take a fancy to sth/sb
to start liking something or someone very much
Laura's taken a fancy to Japanese food.
3. take/tickle your fancy INFORMAL
If something takes/tickles your fancy, you like it and want to have or do it
I looked in a lot of clothes shops but nothing really tickled my fancy.
fancy noun IMAGINATION
4. [ U ] LITERARY the imagination
See flight of fancy
ˌ fancy ˈ dress noun [ U ] UK
the special clothes that you wear for a party where everyone dresses as a
particular type of character or thing
a fancy-dress party
I thought he was in fancy dress.
fancy-free adjective [ after verb ] ( ALSO footloose and fancy-free )
free to do what you like and go where you like because you have no
responsibilities such as a family or a relationship
ˈ fancy ˌ man/ ˌ woman noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a lover
fandango noun [ C ]
a fast Spanish dance performed by a man and a woman dancing close together
fanfare noun [ C ]
a loud short piece of music played usually on a trumpet and to introduce the
arrival of someone important
fang noun [ C ]
fang
a long sharp tooth
The dog growled and bared its fangs.
ˈ fan ˌ heater noun [ C ]
a machine that runs on electricity which blows heated air into a room
fanlight noun [ C ] ( US USUALLY transom (window) )
a small window over the top of a door
ˈ fan ˌ mail noun [ U ]
letters that are sent to a famous person by people who admire that person
fanny noun [ C ]
1. UK OFFENSIVE a woman's sexual organs
2. US OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL a person's bottom
ˈ fanny ˌ pack noun [ C ] US ( UK bumbag )
a small bag fixed to a long strap which you fasten around your waist, and which is
used for carrying money, keys, etc.
fansite noun [ C ]
a website for people who like a particular actor, television programme, etc.
fantasia noun [ C ]
a piece of music with no fixed form, or one consisting of tunes that many people
know or recognize
fantasist noun [ C ]
someone who often has fantasies, or someone who confuses fantasy and reality
fantasize , UK USUALLY fantasise verb [ I or T ]
to think about something very pleasant that is unlikely to happen
He fantasized about winning the Nobel Prize.
[ + that ] As a child Emma fantasized that she would do something heroic.
fantastic adjective GOOD
1. INFORMAL extremely good
You look fantastic in that dress.
We had a fantastic time.
They've won a holiday? How fantastic!
fantastic adjective NOT REAL
2. ( ALSO fantastical ) strange and imaginary, or not reasonable
He drew fantastic animals with two heads and large wings.
fantastical tales (= about imaginary things)
3. very unusual, strange or unexpected
It seemed fantastic that they still remembered her 50 years later.
fantastic adjective LARGE
4. A fantastic amount is very large
She must be earning a fantastic amount of money.
fantastically adverb
They're fantastically rich.
They're doing fantastically well.
fantasy noun [ C or U ]
a pleasant situation that you enjoy thinking about, but which is unlikely to
happen, or the activity of thinking itself
Steve's favourite fantasy was to own a big house and a flashy car.
sexual fantasies
She retreated into a fantasy world , where she could be anything she wanted.
ˌ fantasy ˈ football noun [ U ]
a game in which you choose a team of real football players from different teams
and win points according to how well the players play each week
fanzine noun [ C ]
a magazine written by people who admire a sports team, musicians, etc., for
other people with the same special interest
See also fan
FAQ noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR frequently asked question: a question in a list of questions and
answers intended to help people understand a particular subject
If you have any problems, consult the FAQs on our website.
far adverb DISTANCE
1. at, to or from a great distance in space or time
How far is it from Australia to New Zealand?
Is the station far away ?
She doesn't live far from here.
He felt lonely and far from home.
One day, perhaps far in/into the future, you'll regret what you've done.
2. as/so far as I know
used to say what you think is true, although you do not know all the facts
He isn't coming today, as far as I know.
3. as/so far as I'm concerned
used to say what your personal opinion is about something
She can come whenever she likes, as far as I'm concerned.
4. as/so far as I can tell
used to say what you have noticed or understood
There's been no change, as far as I can tell.
5. far be it from me to
I certainly would not
Far be it from me to tell you how to run your life.
6. far from sth
certainly not something
The situation is far from clear.
7. far from it
certainly not
He's not handsome - far from it.
8. from far and wide
from a large number of places
People came from far and wide to see the house.
9. so far
until now
So far we've made thirty-two thousand pounds.
10. so far so good
used to say that an activity has gone well until now
I've found a tin of beans. So far so good, but where is the opener?
far adverb AMOUNT
11. very much
This car is far better than our old one.
It cost far more (money) than I could afford.
He loses his temper far too often.
I'd far rather/sooner go to the theatre than watch a video.
12. by far
by a great amount
They are by far the best students in the class.
as far as it goes
used to say that something has good qualities but could be better
It's a good essay as far as it goes.
be a far cry from sth
to be completely different from something
This flat is a far cry from the house they had before.
by far and away UK
by a very great amount
go far INFORMAL ( ALSO go a long way )
to be very successful in the future
She's a very talented writer - I'm sure she'll go far.
go too far INFORMAL
to behave in a way that upsets or annoys people
It's all very well having a joke but sometimes you go too far.
far adjective
1. describes something that is not near, or the part of something that is most
distant from the centre or from you
The station isn't far - we could easily walk it.
[ before noun ] The children ran to the far side/corner of the room.
2. far left/right
refers to political groups whose opinions are very extreme
far adverb DISTANCE
1. at, to or from a great distance in space or time
How far is it from Australia to New Zealand?
Is the station far away ?
She doesn't live far from here.
He felt lonely and far from home.
One day, perhaps far in/into the future, you'll regret what you've done.
2. as/so far as I know
used to say what you think is true, although you do not know all the facts
He isn't coming today, as far as I know.
3. as/so far as I'm concerned
used to say what your personal opinion is about something
She can come whenever she likes, as far as I'm concerned.
4. as/so far as I can tell
used to say what you have noticed or understood
There's been no change, as far as I can tell.
5. far be it from me to
I certainly would not
Far be it from me to tell you how to run your life.
6. far from sth
certainly not something
The situation is far from clear.
7. far from it
certainly not
He's not handsome - far from it.
8. from far and wide
from a large number of places
People came from far and wide to see the house.
9. so far
until now
So far we've made thirty-two thousand pounds.
10. so far so good
used to say that an activity has gone well until now
I've found a tin of beans. So far so good, but where is the opener?
far adverb AMOUNT
11. very much
This car is far better than our old one.
It cost far more (money) than I could afford.
He loses his temper far too often.
I'd far rather/sooner go to the theatre than watch a video.
12. by far
by a great amount
They are by far the best students in the class.
as far as it goes
used to say that something has good qualities but could be better
It's a good essay as far as it goes.
be a far cry from sth
to be completely different from something
This flat is a far cry from the house they had before.
by far and away UK
by a very great amount
go far INFORMAL ( ALSO go a long way )
to be very successful in the future
She's a very talented writer - I'm sure she'll go far.
go too far INFORMAL
to behave in a way that upsets or annoys people
It's all very well having a joke but sometimes you go too far.
far adjective
1. describes something that is not near, or the part of something that is most
distant from the centre or from you
The station isn't far - we could easily walk it.
[ before noun ] The children ran to the far side/corner of the room.
2. far left/right
refers to political groups whose opinions are very extreme
supporters of the far left
faraway , adjective [ before noun ]
1. LITERARY a long way away
They travelled to faraway lands/places .
2. describes a person's expression which shows that they are not thinking about
what is happening around them
There was a faraway look in his eyes.
farce noun PLAY
1. [ C ] a humorous play or film where the characters become involved in unlikely
situations
2. [ U ] the style of writing or acting in this type of play
The play suddenly changes from farce to tragedy.
farce noun SITUATION
3. [ C ] DISAPPROVING a silly or meaningless situation or action
No one had prepared anything so the meeting was a bit of a farce.
farcical adjective DISAPPROVING
The whole situation has become farcical.
farcically adverb DISAPPROVING
fare noun PAYMENT
1. [ C ] the money that you pay for a journey on a vehicle such as a bus or train
Train fares are going up again.
2. [ C ] someone who pays to be driven somewhere in a taxi
fare noun FOOD
3. [ U ] SLIGHTLY OLD-FASHIONED the type of food that is served in a restaurant
a pub serving traditional British fare
fare verb [ I usually + adv/prep ] SLIGHTLY OLD-FASHIONED
to succeed or be treated in the stated way
How did you fare in your exams?
Low-paid workers will fare badly/well under this government.
the ˌ Far ˈ East noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
the countries of East Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea and
Indonesia
Compare the Middle East
the ˌ Far ˈ East noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]

the countries of East Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea and
Indonesia
Compare the Middle East
farewell exclamation OLD-FASHIONED OR FORMAL
goodbye
farewell noun [ C ] FORMAL
when someone says goodbye
We said our sad farewells and got on the bus.
He bid us both a fond (= affectionate) farewell.
a farewell party
far-fetched adjective
very unlikely to be true, and difficult to believe
a far-fetched idea/story
far-flung adjective LITERARY
describes places that are a great distance away, or something that is spread over
a very large area
The news spread to all corners of our far-flung empire.
far-gone adjective INFORMAL
very drunk, ill, or in some other advanced and bad state
He was so far-gone that he could hardly walk.
farm noun [ C ]
1. an area of land, together with a house and buildings, used for growing crops
and/or keeping animals as a business
a dairy/arable farm
farm animals
fresh farm produce
farm workers
2. a place where a particular type of animal is raised in large numbers to be sold
a sheep/fish farm
farm verb [ T ]
to use land for growing crops and/or raising animals as a business
The Stamfords have farmed this land for over a hundred years.
farm sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to give work to other people to do
Magazines often farm out articles to freelance journalists.
farm sb out phrasal verb [ M ] DISAPPROVING
to arrange for another person to look after someone, especially your child
Almost since birth, their baby has been farmed out to nannies and nurseries.
farmer noun [ C ]
someone who owns or takes care of a farm
a dairy/sheep farmer
farmer noun [ C ]
someone who owns or takes care of a farm
a dairy/sheep farmer
farmers' market noun [ C ]
a regular event in a town or city when farmers come to sell their fruit, vegetables,
eggs, meat, etc. directly to customers
farmhand noun [ C ]
a person who is paid to work on a farm
farmhouse noun [ C ]
the main house on a farm where the farmer lives
farmhouse adjective [ before noun ]
describes food that is made using traditional methods
farmhouse cheddar
farming noun [ U ]
the activity of working on a farm or organizing the work there
farmland noun [ U ]
land that is used for or is suitable for farming
farmstead noun [ C ] US
the house belonging to a farm and the buildings around it
farmyard noun [ C ] ( US USUALLY barnyard )
an area surrounded by or near farm buildings
farmyard animals/smells
far-off adjective
1. describes a time that is a long way from the present, or in the distant past or
future
some point in the far-off future
2. describes a place that is a great distance away
far-out adjective SLANG
strange and unusual
I've seen the video - it's pretty far-out.
far-out exclamation OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
excellent
You got the job? Far-out!
far-out adjective SLANG
strange and unusual
I've seen the video - it's pretty far-out.
far-out exclamation OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
excellent
You got the job? Far-out!
farrago noun [ C ] FORMAL DISAPPROVING
a confused mixture
He told us a farrago of lies.
far-reaching adjective
Something far-reaching has a great influence on many people or things
These new laws will have far-reaching benefits for all working mothers.
farrier noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a person who makes and fits metal plates for horses' feet
far-sighted adjective WISE
1. UK having good judgment about what will be needed in the future and making
wise decisions based on this
Buying those shares was a very far-sighted move - they must be worth ten times
their original value now.
far-sighted adjective SEEING
2. US ( UK long-sighted ) describes someone who has difficulty seeing things that
are close
I'm so far-sighted, I can't read the newspaper without my glasses.
fart verb [ I ] VERY INFORMAL
to release gas from the bowels through the bottom
fart about/around phrasal verb UK OFFENSIVE
to waste time doing silly or unnecessary things
Stop farting about and help me tidy up.
fart noun [ C ] PERSON
1. OFFENSIVE a boring, annoying or unpleasant person
He's a pompous old fart.
fart noun [ C ] GAS
2. VERY INFORMAL an escape of gas from the bowels
to do a fart
farther adverb
COMPARATIVE OF far (DISTANCE) ; to a greater distance
How much farther is it to the airport?
The fog's so thick, I can't see farther than about ten metres.
farther adjective
a greater distance from something
It was farther to the shops than I expected.
He swam to the farther side of the lake.
farther adverb
COMPARATIVE OF far (DISTANCE) ; to a greater distance
How much farther is it to the airport?
The fog's so thick, I can't see farther than about ten metres.
farther adjective
a greater distance from something
It was farther to the shops than I expected.
He swam to the farther side of the lake.
farthest adverb
SUPERLATIVE OFfar (DISTANCE) ; to the greatest distance
What's the farthest you've ever run?
farthest adjective
at the greatest distance from sth
The farthest landmark visible is about 30km away.
farthing noun [ C ]
a coin worth a quarter of a penny in old British money
fascia noun [ C ] VEHICLE
1. UK FORMAL the dashboard in a motor vehicle
fascia noun [ C ] SHOP
2. the sign above the window of a shop, where the shop's name is written
fascia noun [ C ] PHONE
3. a cover for a mobile phone
fascinate verb [ T ]
to interest someone a lot
Science has always fascinated me.
Anything to do with aeroplanes and flying fascinates him.
fascinated adjective
extremely interested
We watched fascinated as he cleaned and repaired the watch.
I was fascinated to hear about his travels in Bhután.
They were absolutely fascinated by the game.
fascinating adjective
extremely interesting
The book offers a fascinating glimpse of the lives of the rich and famous.
I found the whole film fascinating.
fascination noun [ S or U ]
when you find someone or something fascinating
Miller's fascination with medieval art dates from her childhood.
Mass murders hold a gruesome fascination for the public.
fascination noun [ S or U ]
when you find someone or something fascinating
Miller's fascination with medieval art dates from her childhood.
Mass murders hold a gruesome fascination for the public.
Fascism noun [ U ]
a political system based on a very powerful leader, state control and being
extremely proud of country and race, and in which political opposition is not allowed
fascist adjective ( ALSO fascistic )
based on or supporting fascism
fascist groups
a fascist dictator/regime
fascist noun [ C ]
1. someone who supports fascism
2. a person of the far right in politics
3. DISAPPROVING someone who does not allow any opposition
He reckons all policemen are fascists and bullies.
fashion noun POPULAR STYLE
1. [ C or U ] a style that is popular at a particular time, especially in clothes, hair,
make-up, etc
Long hair is back in fashion for men.
Fur coats have gone out of fashion.
a programme with features on pop music, sport and fashion
She always wears the latest fashions.
There was a fashion for keeping reptiles as pets.
2. follow (a) fashion
to do what is popular at the time
3. like it's going out of fashion INFORMAL
If you use something like it's going out of fashion, you use large amounts of it
very quickly
Emma spends money like it's going out of fashion.
fashion noun MANNER
4. [ S ] a way of doing things
The rebel army behaved in a brutal fashion.
5. after a fashion
If you can do something after a fashion, you can do it, but not well
I can cook, after a fashion.
fashion verb [ T ] FORMAL
to make something using your hands
He fashioned a hat for himself from/out of newspaper.
fashionable adjective
1. popular at a particular time
a fashionable nightclub/restaurant
fashionable ideas/clothes
It's not fashionable to wear short skirts at the moment.
2. wearing clothes, doing things and going to places that are in fashion
A fashionable couple posed elegantly at the next table.
fashionably adverb
fashionably dressed
fashionable adjective
1. popular at a particular time
a fashionable nightclub/restaurant
fashionable ideas/clothes
It's not fashionable to wear short skirts at the moment.
2. wearing clothes, doing things and going to places that are in fashion
A fashionable couple posed elegantly at the next table.
fashionably adverb
fashionably dressed
fashion-conscious adjective
interested in the latest fashions and in wearing fashionable clothes
your average fashion-conscious teenager
fashion-forward adjective INFORMAL
1. interested in fashion and wearing things that will soon become very fashionable
clothes for fashion-forward teenagers
2. more modern than things that are fashionable now
fashion-forward jeans
fashionista noun [ C ]
someone who works in or writes about the fashion industry
ˈ fashion ˌ show noun [ C ]
a show for the public where models wear new styles of clothes
ˈ fashion ˌ statement noun [ C ]
clothes that you wear or something else that you own in order to attract attention
and show other people the type of person you are
I thought I'd be bold and make a fashion statement.
ˈ fashion ˌ victim noun [ C ]
someone who always wears very fashionable clothes even if the clothes
sometimes make them look silly
fast adjective QUICK
1. moving or happening quickly, or able to move or happen quickly
fast cars
a fast swimmer
Computers are getting faster all the time.
The fast train (= one that stops at fewer stations and travels quickly) to London
takes less than an hour.
2. If your watch or clock is fast, it shows a time that is later than the correct time.
3. SPECIALIZED describes photographic film which allows you to take pictures when
there is not much light or when things are moving quickly
4. fast and furious
describes something that is full of speed and excitement
It's not a relaxing film - it's pretty fast and furious.
fast adjective IMMORAL
5. OLD-FASHIONED DISAPPROVING without moral principles
a fast crowd
a fast woman
fast adjective FIXED
6. If the colour of a piece of clothing is fast, the colour does not come out of the
cloth when it is washed.
fast adverb
quickly
The accident was caused by people driving too fast in bad conditions.
You'll have to act fast.
Children's publishing is a fast-growing business.
as fast as your legs would carry you
as quickly as possible
He scuttled back into the house as fast as his legs would carry him.
play fast and loose with sth/sb
to treat something or someone without enough care
Like many film-makers, he plays fast and loose with the facts to tell his own
version of the story.
fast adverb , adjective
firmly fixed
The glue had set and my hand was stuck fast.
He tried to get away, but she held him fast.
hold/stand fast
to firmly remain in the same position or keep the same opinion
The rebels are standing fast and refuse to be defeated.
He held fast to his principles.
fast noun [ C ]
a period of time when you eat no food
Hundreds of prisoners began a fast in protest about prison conditions.
fast verb [ I ]
to eat no food for a period of time
One day a week he fasts for health reasons.
fastball noun [ C ] US
a type of high-speed throw in baseball
The pitcher wound up and let loose a fastball.
fastball noun [ C ] US
a type of high-speed throw in baseball
The pitcher wound up and let loose a fastball.
fasten verb
1. [ I or T ] to (cause something to) become firmly fixed together, or in position,
or closed
Make sure your seat belt is securely fastened.
This shirt fastens at the back.
2. fasten sth on/to/together, etc.
to fix one thing to another
I fastened the sticker to the windscreen.
fasten on/upon sth phrasal verb
to give attention to something, because it is of special interest or often because
you think it is the cause of a problem
The tabloid newspapers have fastened on popular psychology.
My mind fastened on his admission that he was an agent.
fastener noun [ C ]
a button, zip or other device for temporarily joining together the parts of things
such as clothes
fastening noun [ C ]
a device on a window, door, box, etc. for keeping it closed
ˌ fast ˈ food noun [ U ]
hot food such as a burger that is quick to cook or is already cooked and is
therefore served very quickly in a restaurant
fast food restaurant noun [ C ]
a restaurant that serves fast food such as burgers
fast-forward verb [ I or T ]
1. If you fast-forward a recording, or if it fast-forwards, you make it play at very
high speed so that you get to the end or a later part more quickly
I hate this song - I'll fast-forward to the next one.
The tape jammed while I was fast-forwarding it.
2. the fast-forward
the part of a piece of electronic equipment that allows you to fast-forward
fastidious adjective
1. giving too much attention to small details and wanting everything to be correct
and perfect
He is very fastidious about how a suitcase should be packed.
2. having a strong dislike of anything dirty or unpleasant
They were too fastidious to eat in a fast-food restaurant.
fastidiously adverb
fastidiously clean/dressed
fastidiousness noun [ U ]
fastidious adjective
1. giving too much attention to small details and wanting everything to be correct
and perfect
He is very fastidious about how a suitcase should be packed.
2. having a strong dislike of anything dirty or unpleasant
They were too fastidious to eat in a fast-food restaurant.
fastidiously adverb
fastidiously clean/dressed
fastidiousness noun [ U ]
ˈ fast ˌ lane noun [ S ]
the part of a main road, such as a motorway, where vehicles travel at the fastest
speed
life in the fast lane
a way of living which is full of excitement, activity and often danger
Parties, drugs, and a stream of glamorous women - his was a life in the fast lane.
ˌ fast ˈ link noun [ C ]
a road or railway that allows you to travel directly and quickly between two or
more places
fastness noun FIXED
1. [ U ] how fast (= fixed) something is
Test clothes for colour fastness before washing.
fastness noun SAFE PLACE
2. [ C ] LITERARY a safe place, such as a fortress
a mountain fastness
fast-talk verb [ T ] MAINLY US DISAPPROVING
to persuade people with a lot of quick, clever, but usually dishonest talk
He fast-talked his way into a powerful job.
fast-talker noun [ C ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
someone who is good at persuading people to do what he or she wants
ˈ fast ˌ track noun [ S ]
the quickest, but usually most competitive, route to success or progress
A degree in computer science offers a fast track to the top.
fast-track adjective [ before noun ]
fast-track opportunities
They've introduced a fast-track system for brighter pupils which will allow
thousands to take their GCSE exams two years early.
fat adjective BIG
1. having a lot of flesh on the body
Like most women, she thinks she's fat.
I have horrible fat thighs.
He eats all the time but he never gets fat.
2. thick or large
He lifted a fat volume down from the shelf.
Some producers of mineral water have made fat profits.
fat adjective NO
3. [ before noun ] INFORMAL used in some phrases to mean very little or none
A fat lot of use you are (= You are not useful in any way) !
He knows it upsets me, but a fat lot he cares (= he doesn't care) .
fat chance INFORMAL
used to say that you certainly do not think that something is likely to happen
"Perhaps they'll invite you." "Fat chance (of that)!"
fat noun
1. [ U ] the substance under the skin of humans and animals that stores energy
and keeps them warm
body fat
Women have a layer of subcutaneous fat (= fat under the skin) , which provides
them with better insulation than men.
2. [ C or U ] a solid or liquid substance from animals or plants and used especially
in cooking
This product contains no animal fat.
I only use vegetable fats in cooking.
The fat is in the fire. INFORMAL
said when something has been said or done that will cause a lot of trouble
live off the fat of the land
to be rich enough to enjoy the best of everything
fat adjective BIG

1. having a lot of flesh on the body
Like most women, she thinks she's fat.
I have horrible fat thighs.
He eats all the time but he never gets fat.
2. thick or large
He lifted a fat volume down from the shelf.
Some producers of mineral water have made fat profits.
fat adjective NO
3. [ before noun ] INFORMAL used in some phrases to mean very little or none
A fat lot of use you are (= You are not useful in any way) !
He knows it upsets me, but a fat lot he cares (= he doesn't care) .
fat chance INFORMAL
used to say that you certainly do not think that something is likely to happen
"Perhaps they'll invite you." "Fat chance (of that)!"
fat noun
1. [ U ] the substance under the skin of humans and animals that stores energy
and keeps them warm
body fat
Women have a layer of subcutaneous fat (= fat under the skin) , which provides
them with better insulation than men.
2. [ C or U ] a solid or liquid substance from animals or plants and used especially
in cooking
This product contains no animal fat.
I only use vegetable fats in cooking.
The fat is in the fire. INFORMAL
said when something has been said or done that will cause a lot of trouble
live off the fat of the land
to be rich enough to enjoy the best of everything
fatal adjective
1. A fatal illness or accident, etc. causes death
This illness is fatal in almost all cases.
the fatal shooting of an unarmed 15-year-old
2. very serious and having an important bad effect in the future
He made the fatal mistake/error of believing what they told him.
It just shows how you should never say how well things are going for you - it's
fatal (= it causes bad things to happen) .
fatally adverb
Several people were injured, two fatally (= they died as a result) .
fatalism noun [ U ]
the belief that people cannot change the way events will happen and that events,
especially bad ones, cannot be avoided
fatalist noun [ C ]
fatalistic adjective
Being fatalistic about your chances will do no good.
fatalistically adverb
fatality noun [ C ]
a death caused by an accident or by violence, or someone who has died in either
of these ways
Britain has thousands of road fatalities (= deaths on roads) every year.
The first fatalities of the war were civilians.
ˌ fat ˈ cat noun [ C often plural ] DISAPPROVING
someone who has a lot of money, especially someone in charge of a company
who has the power to increase their own pay
The report criticised boardroom fat cats who award themselves huge pay
increases.
fat cat bosses/directors
fate noun
1. [ C usually singular ] what happens to a particular person or thing, especially
something final or negative, such as death or defeat
We want to decide our own fate.
His fate is now in the hands of the jury.
The disciples were terrified that they would suffer/meet the same fate as Jesus.
2. [ U ] a power that some people believe causes and controls all events, so that
you cannot change or control the way things will happen
When we met again by chance in Cairo, I felt it must be fate.
Fate has brought us together.
a fate worse than death INFORMAL HUMOROUS
something you do not want to experience because it is so unpleasant
When you're 16, an evening at home with your parents seems like a fate worse
than death.
the Fates
three goddesses who the ancient Greeks believed controlled people's lives and
decided when people must die
fate noun
1. [ C usually singular ] what happens to a particular person or thing, especially
something final or negative, such as death or defeat
We want to decide our own fate.
His fate is now in the hands of the jury.
The disciples were terrified that they would suffer/meet the same fate as Jesus.
2. [ U ] a power that some people believe causes and controls all events, so that
you cannot change or control the way things will happen
When we met again by chance in Cairo, I felt it must be fate.
Fate has brought us together.
a fate worse than death INFORMAL HUMOROUS
something you do not want to experience because it is so unpleasant
When you're 16, an evening at home with your parents seems like a fate worse
than death.
the Fates
three goddesses who the ancient Greeks believed controlled people's lives and
decided when people must die
fated adjective [ after verb ]
not able to be avoided because planned by a power that controls events
[ + that ] It seemed fated that we would get married.
[ + to infinitive ] She says she was fated to become a writer.
fateful adjective [ before noun ]
having an important and usually negative effect on the future
the fateful day of President Kennedy's assassination
He made the fateful decision to send in the troops.
ˌ fat ˈ finger ˌ syndrome noun [ U ] INFORMAL
when you press the wrong button by accident when you are using a computer
keyboard
fatfinger verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to press the wrong button by accident when you are using a computer keyboard
I thought the computer wasn't working but I must have fat-fingered my
password.
fat-fingered adjective INFORMAL
fat-fingered office workers
fat-free adjective
describes food that contains no fat
fathead noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a stupid person
fatheaded adjective
father noun [ C ]
a male parent
My father took me to watch the football every Saturday.
the father of sth
the man who began something or first made something important
Freud was the father of psychiatry.
father verb [ T ]
to become the father of a child by making a woman pregnant
He's fathered three children.
Father noun [ C ]
1. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Fr ) (the title of) a Christian priest, especially a Roman
Catholic or Orthodox priest
Father O'Reilly
[ as form of address ] Are you giving a sermon, Father?
2. a name for the Christian God
God the Father
Our Father, who art in heaven...
Father noun [ C ]
1. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Fr ) (the title of) a Christian priest, especially a Roman
Catholic or Orthodox priest
Father O'Reilly
[ as form of address ] Are you giving a sermon, Father?
2. a name for the Christian God
God the Father
Our Father, who art in heaven...
ˌ Father ˈ Christmas noun MAINLY UK
an imaginary old man with long white hair and a beard and a red coat who is
believed by children to bring them presents at Christmas, or a person who dresses as
this character for children
ˈ father ˌ figure noun [ C ]
an older man who you treat like a father, especially by asking for his advice, help
or support
fatherhood noun [ U ]
the state or time of being a father
Fatherhood is a lifelong responsibility.
father-in-law noun [ C ]
the father of the person you are married to
fatherland noun [ C usually singular ] ( ALSO motherland )
the country in which you were born, or the country with which you feel most
connected
fatherless adjective
without a father
fatherless children
fatherly adjective
describes a man or male behaviour typical of a kind and loving father
fatherly advice
fathom noun [ C ]
a unit for measuring the depth of water, equal to 1.8 metres or 6 feet
fathom verb [ T ]
1. to discover the meaning of something
For years people have been trying to fathom (out) the mysteries of the whale's
song.
2. to understand someone or why someone acts as they do
I can't fathom her at all.
fathomless adjective LITERARY DEEP
1. too deep to be measured
a fathomless ocean
FIGURATIVE She gazed into the fathomless depths of his brown eyes.
fathomless adjective LITERARY MYSTERIOUS
2. impossible to understand
I'm afraid it's a fathomless mystery.
a fathomless ocean
fatigue noun TIREDNESS/WEAKNESS
1. [ U ] FORMAL extreme tiredness
She was suffering from fatigue and a stress-related illness.
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED weakness in something, such as a metal part or structure,
often caused by repeated bending
The crash was caused by metal fatigue in one of the propeller blades.
See also compassion fatigue
fatigue noun ARMY
3. fatigues
a. SPECIALIZED a loose brownish green uniform worn by soldiers
army fatigues
b. work such as cleaning or cooking, done by soldiers, often as punishment
Get dressed right now or you'll find yourself on fatigues.
fatigue verb [ T ] OLD USE OR FORMAL
to make someone extremely tired
The journey had fatigued him.
fatigued adjective [ after verb ] FORMAL
tired
fatiguing adjective FORMAL OR OLD-FASHIONED
making you feel tired
Loading and unloading ships is fatiguing work.
fatist , ALSO fattist adjective INFORMAL
treating someone unfairly because they are fat
fatness noun [ U ]
when someone or something is fat
Fatness often runs in families.
fatso noun [ C ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a fat person
Hey, fatso!
ˈ fat ˌ tax noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a tax on food that is bad for you because it makes you fat

a fathomless ocean
fatigue noun ARMY
3. fatigues
army fatigues
tired
fatness noun [ U ]
a fat person
Hey, fatso!
fatted adjective
See kill the fatted calf
fatten verb
fatten sb/sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to give an animal or a thin person a lot of food so that they become fatter
These cattle are being fattened up for slaughter.
HUMOROUS You're just trying to fatten me up.
fattening adjective
describes food that contains a lot of fat, sugar, etc. that would quickly make you
fatter if you ate a lot of it
fattening food, such as cheese and chocolate
fattist adjective
fatist
fatty adjective
containing a lot of fat
Goose is a very fatty meat.
fatty noun [ C ] ( ALSO fatso ) INFORMAL DISAPPROVING OR HUMOROUS
a fat person
ˌ fatty ˈ acid noun [ C ]
any of a group of chemicals, most of which are involved in the way cells operate
in the body

a fathomless ocean
fatigue noun ARMY
3. fatigues
army fatigues
tired
fatness noun [ U ]
a fat person
Hey, fatso!
fatted adjective
See kill the fatted calf
fatten verb
fatten sb/sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to give an animal or a thin person a lot of food so that they become fatter
These cattle are being fattened up for slaughter.
HUMOROUS You're just trying to fatten me up.
fattening adjective
describes food that contains a lot of fat, sugar, etc. that would quickly make you
fatter if you ate a lot of it
fattening food, such as cheese and chocolate
fattist adjective
fatist
fatty adjective
containing a lot of fat
Goose is a very fatty meat.
fatty noun [ C ] ( ALSO fatso ) INFORMAL DISAPPROVING OR HUMOROUS
a fat person
ˌ fatty ˈ acid noun [ C ]
any of a group of chemicals, most of which are involved in the way cells operate
in the body
fatuous adjective FORMAL
stupid, not correct, or not carefully thought about
a fatuous idea
fatuously adverb
fatuousness noun [ U ]
fatwa noun [ C ]
an official statement or order from an Islamic religious leader
faucet noun [ C ]
US FOR tap (DEVICE)
fault noun MISTAKE
1. [ U ] a mistake, especially something for which you are to blame
It's not my fault she didn't come!
She believes it was the doctor's fault that Peter died.
The fault was/lay with the organizers, who failed to make the necessary
arrangements for dealing with so many people.
Through no fault of his own , he spent a week locked up in jail.
2. [ C ] a weakness in a person's character
He has many faults, but dishonesty isn't one of them.
3. [ C ] a broken part or weakness in a machine or system
The car has a serious design fault.
I think it's got an electrical fault.
For all its faults, our transport system is still better than that in many other
countries.
4. [ C ] a mistake made when hitting the ball over the net, in tennis or a similar
game, to begin a game
5. be at fault
to have done something wrong
Her doctor was at fault for/in not sending her straight to a specialist.
6. find fault with sb/sth
to criticize someone or something, especially without good reasons
He's always finding fault with my work.
fault noun CRACK
7. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a crack in the Earth's surface where the rock has divided into
two parts which move against each other
Surveyors say the fault line is capable of generating a major earthquake once in
a hundred years.
be kind/generous, etc. to a fault
to be extremely kind/generous, etc
She's a really sweet person and she's generous to a fault.
fault verb CRITICIZE
1. [ T ] to find a reason to criticize someone or something
I can't fault the way they dealt with the complaint.
I can't fault you on your logic.
fault verb SPORTS
2. [ I ] to hit a fault in tennis and other similar games
That's the fourth serve he's faulted on today.
faultless adjective APPROVING
perfect and without any mistakes
a faultless performance
speaking faultless French
faultlessly adverb
faultless adjective APPROVING

perfect and without any mistakes
a faultless performance
speaking faultless French
faultlessly adverb
ˈ fault ˌ line noun [ C ] CRACK
1. a fault (= break in the Earth's surface)
ˈ fault ˌ line noun [ C ] PROBLEM
2. a problem that may not be obvious, which could cause something to fail
The fault lines of imperfect peace deals are already showing.
faulty adjective
A faulty machine or device is not perfectly made or does not work correctly
faulty wiring/brakes
faun noun [ C ]
an imaginary creature which is like a small man with a goat's back legs, tail, ears
and horns
fauna noun [ U + sing/pl verb ] SPECIALIZED
all the animals that live wild in a particular area
an expedition to explore the flora and fauna of Hornchurch Wood
faux adjective [ before noun ]
not real, but made to look or seem real; false
faux fur
a faux-brick wall
faux pas noun [ C ]
words or behaviour that are a social mistake or not polite
I made some remark about his wife's family then realized I'd made a serious faux
pas.
fave noun [ C ] , adjective
INFORMAL FOR favourite
"Does anyone want a sweet?" "Ooh thanks, they're my faves."
favour UK , US favor noun SUPPORT
1. [ U ] the support or approval of something or someone
These plans are unlikely to find favour unless the cost is reduced.
The Council voted in favour of a £200 million housing development.
She is out of favour (= unpopular) with her colleagues.
Her economic theories are in favour (= popular) with the current government.
He sent her presents in an attempt to win her favour.
2. in your favour
When something is in your favour, it gives you an advantage
This candidate has a lot in her favour, especially her experience of teaching.
3. find in sb's favour
If a judge finds in someone's favour, they say that they are not guilty.
favour UK , US favor noun KIND ACT
4. [ C ] a kind action that you do for someone
She rang up to ask me a favour.
Could you do me a favour - would you feed my cat this weekend?
5. [ C usually plural ] when you favour someone by giving them an advantage,
such as money or a good job
Several politicians were accused of dispensing favours to people who voted for
them.
favour UK , US favor noun PRESENT
6. [ C usually plural ] a small present that you give to every guest at a wedding,
party, etc.
wedding favours
be free with your favours OLD-FASHIONED
to be willing to have sex with a lot of people
She's rather too free with her favours, from what I hear.
Do me/us a favour! INFORMAL
something you say in answer to a stupid and impossible suggestion
"Why don't you tell the police what happened?" "Oh, do me a favour!"
not do sb any favours
to do something that is likely to have a bad effect on you or on another person
[ R ] You're not well, and you're not doing yourself any favours by taking on
extra work.
[ by + -ing verb ] The government isn't doing the families of the victims any
favours by hiding the truth about what really happened.
speak in sb's favour
to state your support for someone
favour UK , US favor verb [ T ]
1. to support or prefer one particular possibility
These are the running shoes favoured by marathon runners.
In the survey, a majority of people favoured higher taxes and better public
services over (= rather than) tax cuts.
[ + -ing verb ] I generally favour travell ing by night, when the roads are quiet.
2. to give an advantage to someone or something, in an unfair way
A strong wind will favour the bigger boats.
She always felt that her parents favoured her brother.
favoured , US favored adjective
favour sb with sth phrasal verb FORMAL
to be polite and kind enough to give something to someone
I've no idea what is happening - David has not favoured me with an explanation.
favour UK , US favor noun SUPPORT
1. [ U ] the support or approval of something or someone
These plans are unlikely to find favour unless the cost is reduced.
The Council voted in favour of a £200 million housing development.
She is out of favour (= unpopular) with her colleagues.
Her economic theories are in favour (= popular) with the current government.
He sent her presents in an attempt to win her favour.
2. in your favour
When something is in your favour, it gives you an advantage
This candidate has a lot in her favour, especially her experience of teaching.
3. find in sb's favour
If a judge finds in someone's favour, they say that they are not guilty.
favour UK , US favor noun KIND ACT
4. [ C ] a kind action that you do for someone
She rang up to ask me a favour.
Could you do me a favour - would you feed my cat this weekend?
5. [ C usually plural ] when you favour someone by giving them an advantage,
such as money or a good job
Several politicians were accused of dispensing favours to people who voted for
them.
favour UK , US favor noun PRESENT
6. [ C usually plural ] a small present that you give to every guest at a wedding,
party, etc.
wedding favours
be free with your favours OLD-FASHIONED
to be willing to have sex with a lot of people
She's rather too free with her favours, from what I hear.
Do me/us a favour! INFORMAL
something you say in answer to a stupid and impossible suggestion
"Why don't you tell the police what happened?" "Oh, do me a favour!"
not do sb any favours
to do something that is likely to have a bad effect on you or on another person
[ R ] You're not well, and you're not doing yourself any favours by taking on
extra work.
[ by + -ing verb ] The government isn't doing the families of the victims any
favours by hiding the truth about what really happened.
speak in sb's favour
to state your support for someone
favour UK , US favor verb [ T ]
1. to support or prefer one particular possibility
These are the running shoes favoured by marathon runners.
In the survey, a majority of people favoured higher taxes and better public
services over (= rather than) tax cuts.
[ + -ing verb ] I generally favour travell ing by night, when the roads are quiet.
2. to give an advantage to someone or something, in an unfair way
A strong wind will favour the bigger boats.
She always felt that her parents favoured her brother.
favoured , US favored adjective
favour sb with sth phrasal verb FORMAL
to be polite and kind enough to give something to someone
I've no idea what is happening - David has not favoured me with an explanation.
favourable UK , US favorable adjective
1. showing that you like or approve of someone or something
We have had a favourable response to the plan so far.
2. making you support or approve of someone or something
She made a very favourable impression on us.
3. giving you an advantage or more chance of success
favourable weather conditions
favourably UK , US favorably adverb
Our products compare favourably with (= are as good as, or better than) all the
leading brands.
favourite UK , US favorite adjective [ before noun ]
best liked or most enjoyed
"What's your favourite colour?" "Green."
my favourite restaurant/book/song
favourite UK , US favorite noun [ C ]
1. a thing that someone likes best or enjoys most
How clever of you to buy chocolate chip cookies - they're my favourites.
2. a person who is treated with special kindness by someone in authority
the teacher's favourite
3. the person or animal most people expect to win a race or competition
Great Gold is the favourite in the 2.00 race at Epsom.
[ + to infinitive ] Brazil are favourites to win this year's World Cup.
ˌ favourite ˈ son UK , US favorite son noun [ S ]
a famous person, especially a politician, who is supported and praised by people
in the area they come from
favouritism , US favoritism noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
unfair support shown to one person or group, especially by someone in authority
A parent must be careful not to show favouritism towards any one of their
children.
fawn noun [ C ]
a young deer
fawn adjective , noun [ U ]
(having) a pale yellowish brown colour
fawn verb
fawn on/upon sb phrasal verb
If an animal such as a dog fawns on/upon you, it is very friendly towards you and
rubs itself against you.
fawn over/on sb phrasal verb DISAPPROVING
to praise someone too much and give them a lot of attention which is not sincere
in order to get a positive reaction
I hate waiters who fawn over you.
fawning adjective DISAPPROVING
a fawning young man
fawn noun [ C ]
a young deer
fawn adjective , noun [ U ]
(having) a pale yellowish brown colour
fawn verb
fawn on/upon sb phrasal verb
If an animal such as a dog fawns on/upon you, it is very friendly towards you and
rubs itself against you.
fawn over/on sb phrasal verb DISAPPROVING
to praise someone too much and give them a lot of attention which is not sincere
in order to get a positive reaction
I hate waiters who fawn over you.
fawning adjective DISAPPROVING
a fawning young man
fax noun
1. [ C ] (a copy of) a document that travels in electronic form along a telephone
line and is then printed on paper
I'll send you a fax with the details of the proposal.
fax
2. [ C or U ] ( ALSO fax machine ) a device or system used to send and receive
documents in electronic form along a telephone line
I'll send you the agenda by fax.
Have you got a fax at home?
fax verb [ T ]
to send a document using a fax machine
I'll fax it (through/over/across) to you.
[ + two objects ] Fax me your reply/Fax your reply to me.
faze verb [ T; not continuous ]
INFORMAL to surprise and worry someone
No one is fazed by the sight of guns here any more.
the FBI noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
ABBREVIATION FOR the Federal Bureau of Investigation: one of the national police
forces in the US controlled by the central government
fear noun [ C or U ]
1. an unpleasant emotion or thought that you have when you are frightened or
worried by something dangerous, painful or bad that is happening or might happen
Trembling with fear, she handed over the money to the gunman.
Even when the waves grew big, the boy showed no (signs of) fear.
I have a fear of heights.
The low profit figures simply confirmed my worst fears.
[ + that ] There are fears that the disease will spread to other countries.
2. be in fear of your life
to be frightened that you might be killed
Lakisha sat inside, in fear of her life, until the police came.
3. be no fear of sth INFORMAL
to be no possibility that a particular thing will happen
Malcolm knows the city well, so there's no fear of us getting lost (= we will not
get lost) .
4. for fear that/of sth
because you are worried that a particular thing might happen
They wouldn't let their cat outside for fear (that) it would get run over.
I didn't want to move for fear of wak ing her up.
have fears for sb/sth
to be worried about someone or something
The climbers are a day late returning from the mountain and we are beginning to
have fears for their safety.
No fear! UK SLANG
certainly not
"Are you coming to the concert?" "No fear!"
put the fear of God into you
to frighten you a lot
without fear or favour
in an equal and fair way
The appointments are made without fear or favour.
fear verb
1. [ T; not continuous ] to be frightened of something or someone unpleasant
Most older employees fear unemployment.
What do you fear most?
2. [ T; not continuous ] FORMAL to be worried or frightened that something bad
might happen or might have happened
[ + ( that ) ] Police fear (that) the couple may have drowned.
FORMAL It is feared (that) as many as two hundred passengers may have died in
the crash.
We huddled together, fearing we might be killed.
[ + to infinitive ] Fearing to go herself, she sent her son to find out the news.
3. I fear
FORMAL used to give someone news of something bad that has happened or might
happen
[ + ( that ) ] I fear (that) she's already left.
never fear ( ALSO fear not ) OLD USE OR HUMOROUS
do not worry
Never fear, I'll take good care of him.
fear for sb/sth phrasal verb FORMAL
to be worried about something, or to be worried that someone is in danger
Her parents fear for her safety.
fearful adjective FRIGHTENED
1. SLIGHTLY FORMAL frightened or worried about something
He hesitated before ringing her, fearful of what she might say.
She's fearful (that) she may lose custody of her children.
fearful adjective BAD
2. UK OLD-FASHIONED very bad
a fearful argument
a fearful temper
fearfulness noun [ U ]

a fearful argument
a fearful temper
fearfully adverb
1. with fear
Fearfully, he walked closer to the edge.
2. UK OLD-FASHIONED extremely
These cakes are fearfully good.
fearless adjective
having no fear
a fearless fighter
fearlessly adverb
They fought fearlessly against the invading armies.
fearlessness noun [ U ]
fearsome adjective FORMAL
frightening
a fearsome reputation
a fearsome display of violence
fearsomely adverb
feasibility noun [ U ]
whether something can be made, done or achieved, or is reasonable
We're looking at the feasibility of building a shopping centre there.
ˌ feasi ˈ bility ˌ study noun [ C ]
an examination of a situation to decide whether a suggested method, plan, or
piece of work is possible or reasonable
The local authority is to carry out a feasibility study into expanding the old
stadium.
The company agreed to conduct a feasibility study for a hydroelectric plant at
Aimores.
feasible adjective SLIGHTLY FORMAL
1. able to be made, done or achieved
With the extra resources, the scheme now seems feasible.
[ + to infinitive ] It may be feasible to clone human beings, but is it ethical?
2. possible or reasonable
It 's quite feasible (that) we'll get the money.
feasibly adverb
feast noun FOOD
1. [ C ] a special meal with very good food or a large meal for many people
"What a feast!" she said, surveying all the dishes on the table.
a wedding feast
feast noun ENJOYABLE THING
2. [ S ] a very enjoyable experience for the senses, especially a visual or musical
experience
a visual feast
His food is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
3. [ S ] a collection of something to be enjoyed
The team contains a veritable feast of international talent.
feast noun CELEBRATION
4. [ C ] a day on which a religious event or person is remembered and celebrated
the Feast of St James/the Passover
a Muslim feast day
feast verb
feast your eyes on sth/sb LITERARY
to look at someone or something with great enjoyment
As you cruise the waterways, feast your eyes on the gorgeous views of the
illuminated city.
feast on sth phrasal verb LITERARY
to eat a lot of good food and enjoy it very much
We feasted on smoked salmon and champagne.
a fearful argument
a fearful temper
fearfully adverb
1. with fear
Fearfully, he walked closer to the edge.
2. UK OLD-FASHIONED extremely
These cakes are fearfully good.
fearless adjective
having no fear
a fearless fighter
fearlessly adverb
They fought fearlessly against the invading armies.
fearlessness noun [ U ]
fearsome adjective FORMAL
frightening
a fearsome reputation
a fearsome display of violence
fearsomely adverb
feasibility noun [ U ]
whether something can be made, done or achieved, or is reasonable
We're looking at the feasibility of building a shopping centre there.
ˌ feasi ˈ bility ˌ study noun [ C ]
an examination of a situation to decide whether a suggested method, plan, or
piece of work is possible or reasonable
The local authority is to carry out a feasibility study into expanding the old
stadium.
The company agreed to conduct a feasibility study for a hydroelectric plant at
Aimores.
feasible adjective SLIGHTLY FORMAL
1. able to be made, done or achieved
With the extra resources, the scheme now seems feasible.
[ + to infinitive ] It may be feasible to clone human beings, but is it ethical?
2. possible or reasonable
It 's quite feasible (that) we'll get the money.
feasibly adverb
feast noun FOOD
1. [ C ] a special meal with very good food or a large meal for many people
"What a feast!" she said, surveying all the dishes on the table.
a wedding feast
feast noun ENJOYABLE THING
2. [ S ] a very enjoyable experience for the senses, especially a visual or musical
experience
a visual feast
His food is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
3. [ S ] a collection of something to be enjoyed
The team contains a veritable feast of international talent.
feast noun CELEBRATION
4. [ C ] a day on which a religious event or person is remembered and celebrated
the Feast of St James/the Passover
a Muslim feast day
feast verb
feast your eyes on sth/sb LITERARY
to look at someone or something with great enjoyment
As you cruise the waterways, feast your eyes on the gorgeous views of the
illuminated city.
feast on sth phrasal verb LITERARY
to eat a lot of good food and enjoy it very much
We feasted on smoked salmon and champagne.
feat noun [ C ]
something difficult needing a lot of skill, strength, bravery, etc. to achieve it
The Eiffel Tower is a remarkable feat of engineering.
She's performed remarkable feats of organization for the office.
be no mean feat INFORMAL
to be a great achievement
Getting the job finished in under a week was no mean feat.
feather noun [ C ]
one of the many soft light things which cover a bird's body, consisting of a long
thin central part with material like hairs along each side
peacock/ostrich feathers
feather pillows (= those containing feathers)
The bird ruffled its feathers.
be (as) light as a feather
to be very light in weight
a feather in your cap
an achievement to be proud of
It's a real feather in our cap to be representing Britain in this contest.
feather verb [ T ] SPECIALIZED
to turn oars (= poles with flat ends used to move a boat) so that the flat parts are
horizontal above the water while you prepare for the next pull
feather your own nest MAINLY DISAPPROVING
to make yourself rich, especially in a way that is selfish or dishonest
featherbed verb [ T ] DISAPPROVING
1. to protect someone, especially a group of workers, too much and make things
easy for them
2. If a government featherbeds an industry, it gives it a lot of help, such as lower
taxes, especially so that jobs will not be lost.
featherbedding noun [ U ]
The taxpayer was forced to fund the featherbedding of a privatised Railtrack.
ˌ feather ˈ boa noun [ C ]
a long thin piece of clothing made of feathers, and worn around the neck,
especially by women
featherbrained adjective INFORMAL
silly or often forgetting things
ˌ feather ˈ duster noun [ C ]
a stick with feathers fixed to one end, used for cleaning dust from delicate objects
feathered adjective
having feathers
HUMOROUS our feathered friends (= birds)
featherweight noun [ C ]
a boxer who weighs more than a bantamweight but less than a lightweight
feathery adjective
soft or delicate, or made of many very small and delicate pieces
feathery clouds/foliage/leaves
feathery blond hair
feature noun QUALITY
1. [ C ] a typical quality or an important part of something
The town's main features are its beautiful mosque and ancient marketplace.
Our latest model of phone has several new features.
A unique feature of these rock shelters was that they were dry.
2. [ C ] a part of a building or of an area of land
a geographical feature
This tour takes in the area's best-known natural features, including the Gullfoss
waterfall.
The most striking feature of the house was a huge two-storey room running the
entire breadth and height of the building.
3. [ C usually plural ] one of the parts of someone's face that you notice when you
look at them
He has wonderful strong features.
regular (= even and attractive) features
Her eyes are her best feature.
feature noun ARTICLE
4. [ C ] a special article in a newspaper or magazine, or a part of a television or
radio broadcast, that deals with a particular subject
a double-page feature on global warming
feature noun FILM
5. [ C ] ( ALSO feature film ) a film that is usually 90 or more minutes long
feature verb [ I + adv/prep T ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
to include someone or something as an important part
The film features James Dean as a disaffected teenager.
This week's broadcast features a report on victims of domestic violence.
It's an Australian company whose logo features a red kangaroo.
feature-length adjective [ before noun ]
describes a film or television play that is 90 or more minutes long
featureless adjective
looking the same in every part, usually in a way that most people consider to be
boring
a featureless desert
a grey featureless landscape
febrile adjective ACTIVE
1. LITERARY extremely active, or too excited, imaginative or emotional
She sang with febrile intensity.
He has a febrile imagination .
febrile adjective FEVER
2. SPECIALIZED caused by a fever
febrile convulsions
February noun [ C or U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Feb )
the second month of the year, after January and before March
28(th) February/February 28(th)
I was born on the fifth of February/February the fifth/ MAINLY US February fifth.
We moved house last February/are moving house next February.
Building work is expected to start in February.
It was a dull, cold February.
feces plural noun
MAINLY US FOR faeces
feckless adjective FORMAL
describes people or behaviour with no energy and enthusiasm
He was portrayed as a feckless drunk.
fecund adjective FORMAL
1. able to produce a lot of crops, fruit, babies, young animals, etc
fecund soil
2. active and productive
a fecund imagination
fecundity noun [ U ]
fed
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF feed
Fed noun [ C ] US INFORMAL
a police officer or other representative of the central government
The Feds completely screwed up the arrest.
federal adjective
1. [ before noun ] relating to the central government, and not to the government
of a region, of some countries such as the United States
the federal government
a federal agency/employee
2. A federal system of government consists of a group of regions that is controlled
by a central government.
ˌ federal ˈ holiday noun [ C ]
US FOR national holiday
federalism noun [ U ]
the system of giving power to a central authority
federalist noun [ C ]
someone who supports a federal system of government
the ˌ Federal Re ˈ serve noun [ S ] ( INFORMAL the Fed )
the central bank of the United States of America
federate verb [ I or T ]
to join to form a federation
federation noun
1. [ C ] a group of organizations, countries, regions, etc. that have joined
together to form a larger organization or government
The United States is a federation of 50 individual states.
2. [ U ] the act of forming a federation
The federation of the six original Australian states took place in 1901.
He's against European federation.
federation noun
1. [ C ] a group of organizations, countries, regions, etc. that have joined
together to form a larger organization or government
The United States is a federation of 50 individual states.
2. [ U ] the act of forming a federation
The federation of the six original Australian states took place in 1901.
He's against European federation.
fedora noun [ C ]
fedora
a man's hat, like a trilby but with a wider brim
ˌ fed ˈ up adjective [ after verb ] INFORMAL
bored, annoyed or disappointed, especially by something that you have
experienced for too long
I'm fed up with my job.
He got fed up with all the travelling he had to do.
fed up to the back teeth MAINLY UK INFORMAL
very fed up
I'm fed up to the back teeth with/of being criticized all the time.
fee noun [ C ]
an amount of money paid for a particular piece of work or for a particular right or
service
legal fees
university fees
an entrance/registration fee
We couldn't pay the lawyer's fee.
feeble adjective
1. weak and without energy, strength or power
He was a feeble, helpless old man.
The little lamp gave only a feeble light.
Opposition to the plan was rather feeble.
2. not effective or good
a feeble joke/excuse
feebly adverb
feeble-minded adjective
without an ordinary level of intelligence, or unable to act or think in an intelligent
way
feed verb GIVE FOOD
1. [ T ] to give food to a person, group or animal
I usually feed the neighbour's cat while she's away.
Let's feed the kids first and have our dinner after.
[ + two objects ] Do you feed your chickens corn?
If you feed your dog on cakes and biscuits, it's not surprising he's so fat.
The kids love feeding bread to the ducks.
2. [ I or T ] If a baby or animal feeds, it eats or drinks milk
The baby only feeds once a night at the moment, thank goodness.
[ R ] Most babies can feed them selves by the time they're a year old.
3. [ T ] to be enough food for a group of people or animals
This amount of pasta won't feed ten people.
4. [ T ] to produce or supply enough food for someone or something
[ R ] If agriculture were given priority, the country would easily be able to feed it
self .
Feed the world/starving.
5. [ T ] to give a plant substances that will help it grow
Don't forget to feed the tomatoes.
feed verb PUT
6. [ I or T usually + adverb or preposition ] to supply something to a person or
thing, or put something into a machine or system, especially in a regular or continuous
way
The vegetables are fed into the machine at this end.
The images are fed over satellite networks to broadcasters throughout the world.
[ + two objects ] A member of the princess's staff had been feeding the
newspaper information/feeding information to the newspaper.
Several small streams feed into (= join) the river near here.
7. [ T ] to put fuel on or inside something that burns, to keep it burning
Remember to feed the fire while I'm out.
a feeding frenzy
a situation when people try to get as much information as possible about an
event, or to make as much profit as they can from it, especially in an unpleasant way
Her sudden death sparked off a feeding frenzy in the media.
be like feeding time at the zoo HUMOROUS
to be very noisy and untidy and have no order
Tea-time in our house is like feeding time at the zoo!
feed sb a line DISAPPROVING
to tell someone something that is not completely true, often as an excuse
She fed me a line about not having budgeted for pay increases this year.
feed sb to the lions
to force someone to do something unpleasant or dangerous that they do not want
to do
feed off/on sth phrasal verb
to increase because of something, or to use something to succeed or get
advantages
Fascism feeds off poverty.
feed sb/sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make a person or animal healthier or fatter by giving them a lot of food
You've lost a lot of weight - you need feeding up a bit.
feed noun FOOD
1. [ C ] UK ( US feeding ) when a baby has something to eat or drink
The baby had a feed an hour ago, so she can't be hungry.
2. [ U ] food eaten by animals that are not kept as pets
cattle/animal feed
See also chickenfeed
3. [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED a large meal
feed noun MACHINE PART
4. [ C ] the part of a machine through which it is supplied with fuel or with
something else that it needs
the car's oil feed
the printer's paper feed
feed verb GIVE FOOD

1. [ T ] to give food to a person, group or animal
I usually feed the neighbour's cat while she's away.
Let's feed the kids first and have our dinner after.
[ + two objects ] Do you feed your chickens corn?
If you feed your dog on cakes and biscuits, it's not surprising he's so fat.
The kids love feeding bread to the ducks.
2. [ I or T ] If a baby or animal feeds, it eats or drinks milk
The baby only feeds once a night at the moment, thank goodness.
[ R ] Most babies can feed them selves by the time they're a year old.
3. [ T ] to be enough food for a group of people or animals
This amount of pasta won't feed ten people.
4. [ T ] to produce or supply enough food for someone or something
[ R ] If agriculture were given priority, the country would easily be able to feed it
self .
Feed the world/starving.
5. [ T ] to give a plant substances that will help it grow
Don't forget to feed the tomatoes.
feed verb PUT
6. [ I or T usually + adverb or preposition ] to supply something to a person or
thing, or put something into a machine or system, especially in a regular or continuous
way
The vegetables are fed into the machine at this end.
The images are fed over satellite networks to broadcasters throughout the world.
[ + two objects ] A member of the princess's staff had been feeding the
newspaper information/feeding information to the newspaper.
Several small streams feed into (= join) the river near here.
7. [ T ] to put fuel on or inside something that burns, to keep it burning
Remember to feed the fire while I'm out.
a feeding frenzy
a situation when people try to get as much information as possible about an
event, or to make as much profit as they can from it, especially in an unpleasant way
Her sudden death sparked off a feeding frenzy in the media.
be like feeding time at the zoo HUMOROUS
to be very noisy and untidy and have no order
Tea-time in our house is like feeding time at the zoo!
feed sb a line DISAPPROVING
to tell someone something that is not completely true, often as an excuse
She fed me a line about not having budgeted for pay increases this year.
feed sb to the lions
to force someone to do something unpleasant or dangerous that they do not want
to do
feed off/on sth phrasal verb
to increase because of something, or to use something to succeed or get
advantages
Fascism feeds off poverty.
feed sb/sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make a person or animal healthier or fatter by giving them a lot of food
You've lost a lot of weight - you need feeding up a bit.
feed noun FOOD
1. [ C ] UK ( US feeding ) when a baby has something to eat or drink
The baby had a feed an hour ago, so she can't be hungry.
2. [ U ] food eaten by animals that are not kept as pets
cattle/animal feed
See also chickenfeed
3. [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED a large meal
feed noun MACHINE PART
4. [ C ] the part of a machine through which it is supplied with fuel or with
something else that it needs
the car's oil feed
the printer's paper feed
feedback noun [ U ] OPINION
1. information or statements of opinion about something, such as a new product,
that provide an idea of whether it is successful or liked
Have you had any feedback from customers about the new soap?
positive/negative feedback
feedback noun [ U ] MACHINE
2. the sudden, high, unpleasant noise sometimes produced by an amplifier when
sound it produces is put back into it
Jimi Hendrix loved to fling his guitar around to get weird and wonderful sounds
from the feedback.
3. SPECIALIZED the return back into a machine or system of part of what it
produces, especially to improve what is produced
Feedback from the sensors ensures that the car engine runs smoothly.
feedbag noun [ C ]
US FOR nosebag
feeder adjective [ before noun ]
describes something that leads to or supplies a larger thing of the same type
a feeder road
a feeder school
feeder noun [ C ]
1. a baby or animal that eats in a particular way
a messy/slow feeder
2. a container for giving food to animals
a bird feeder
3. OLD-FASHIONED a bib for a young child
feel verb EXPERIENCE
1. [ L or T ] to experience something physical or emotional
"How are you feeling?" "Not too bad, but I've still got a slight headache."
How would you feel about moving to a different city?
He's still feeling a bit weak after his operation.
My eyes feel really sore.
I never feel safe when I'm being driven by Richard.
Never in her life had she felt so happy.
My suitcase began to feel really heavy after a while.
I felt (= thought that I was) a complete idiot/such a fool.
She felt his hot breath on her neck.
[ + object + -ing verb ] I could feel the sweat trickl ing down my back.
By midday, we were really feeling (= suffering from) the heat.
2. feel like sth
a. to have a wish for something, or to want to do something, at a particular
moment
I feel like (go ing for) a swim.
I feel like (hav ing ) a nice cool glass of lemonade.
"Are you coming to aerobics?" "No, I don't feel like it today."
b. [ + -ing verb ] to want to do something that you do not do
He was so rude I felt like slapp ing his face.
3. feel the cold
to get cold quicker and more often than most people
As you get older, you tend to feel the cold more.
4. not feel a thing INFORMAL
to not feel any pain
"Did it hurt?" "Not at all - I didn't feel a thing."
feel verb OPINION
5. [ I or T ] to have the opinion, or consider
[ + ( that ) ] I feel (that) I should be doing more to help her.
[ R (+ to be ) + adjective ] He had always felt him self ( to be ) inferior to his
brothers.
Do you feel very strongly (= have strong opinions) about this?
I feel certain I'm right.
feel verb TOUCH
6. [ I or T ] to touch something in order to discover something about it
[ + question word ] Just feel how cold my hands are!
He gently felt the softness of the baby's cheek.
I was feeling (around) (= searching with my hand) in my bag for the keys.
feel your age
to realise that you are no longer young
Everybody there looked under twenty and I really felt my age.
feel free
If someone tells you to feel free to do something, they mean that you can do it if
you want to
Feel free to help yourself to coffee.
feel it in your bones
to believe something strongly although you cannot explain why
It's going to be a good summer - I can feel it in my bones.
feel the pinch
to have problems with money because you are earning less than before
When my father lost his job and we had to live on my mother's earnings, we
really started to feel the pinch.
feel your way
1. to judge where you are going by touching with your hands instead of looking
The room was so dark, I had to feel my way along the wall to the door.
2. to act slowly and carefully because you are not certain how to do something
It's my first month in the job so I'm still feeling my way.
feel for sb phrasal verb
to experience sympathy and sadness for someone because they are suffering
I know what it's like to be lonely, so I do feel for her.
feel sb up phrasal verb [ M ] SLANG
to touch someone sexually, especially someone you do not know, for your own
excitement
That's the second time she's been felt up on the Metro.
feel noun TOUCH
1. [ S ] the way that something feels
She loved the feel of silk against her skin.
2. [ C ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL the action of touching something
Is that shirt silk? Ooh, let me have a feel!
feel noun CHARACTER
3. [ S ] ( ALSO feeling ) the character of a place or situation
I like the decoration - it's got quite a Spanish feel to it.
There was a feel of mystery about the place.
We were there for such a short time, we didn't really get the feel of (= get to
know) the place.
feel noun UNDERSTANDING
4. a feel for sth ( ALSO feeling )
a natural understanding or ability, especially in a subject or activity
She has a real feel for language.
I tried learning the piano, but I never had much of a feel for it.
5. get the feel of sth ( ALSO feeling )
to learn how to do something, usually a new activity
Once you get the feel of it, using a mouse is easy.
feeler noun [ C usually plural ]
one of the two long parts on an insect's head with which it touches things in order
to discover what is around it
put out feelers
to make informal suggestions as a way of testing other people's opinions on
something before any decisions are made
feeler noun [ C usually plural ]

one of the two long parts on an insect's head with which it touches things in order
to discover what is around it
put out feelers
to make informal suggestions as a way of testing other people's opinions on
something before any decisions are made
feelgood adjective [ before noun ]
causing happy and positive feelings about life
a feelgood movie
With the housing market picking up and consumer spending buoyant, it appears
that the feelgood factor (= a happy and positive feeling felt by people generally) has
returned.
feeling noun PHYSICAL SENSE
1. [ C or U ] when you feel something physical
I had a tingling feeling in my fingers.
I've got this strange feeling in my stomach.
My toes were so cold that I'd lost all feeling in them.
feeling noun EMOTION
2. [ C or U ] emotion
The feeling of loneliness suddenly overwhelmed him.
There's a feeling of dissatisfaction with the government.
[ + that ] I got the feeling that I was not welcome.
Her performance seemed to me completely lacking in feeling.
3. feelings
emotions, especially those influenced by other people
Some people say that dogs have feelings.
I wanted to spare his feelings (= not to upset him) , so I didn't tell him what
she'd said about him.
feeling noun OPINION
4. [ C ] opinion
My feeling is that we had better act quickly or it will be too late.
bad feeling UK ( US bad feelings )
when people are upset or angry with each other
I'd like to complain to the neighbours about the noise, but I don't want to cause
any bad feeling ( between us).
hurt sb's feelings
to upset someone by criticizing them or by refusing something that they have
offered you
feelingly adverb
with deep and sincere emotion
"I've just had enough!" she said feelingly.
feelingly adverb
with deep and sincere emotion
"I've just had enough!" she said feelingly.
fee-paying adjective UK
describes a school where parents pay the school directly for their children's
education
feet
PLURAL OF foot
feign verb [ T ]
to pretend to feel something, usually an emotion
You know how everyone feigns surprise when you tell them how old you are.
She responded to his remarks with feigned amusement.
feint verb [ I or T ]
(especially in football or boxing ) to pretend to move, or to make a move, in a
particular direction in order to deceive a competitor
[ + to infinitive ] Callas feinted to pass the ball and then shot it into the net.
He feinted a shot to the left.
feint noun [ C ]
He produced a brilliant feint, passed two defenders, and smashed the ball into the
net.
feisty adjective
active, forceful and full of determination
a feisty lady
He launched a feisty attack on the government.
felafel , falafel noun [ C or U ]
fried balls of spicy food made from chickpeas (= pale brown round seeds)
feldspar noun [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED
a common type of mineral found especially in igneous rocks such as granite
felicitations plural noun OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS
an expression used to wish someone happiness, or to praise or show approval
May I offer my felicitations on your engagement.
felicitations plural noun OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS

an expression used to wish someone happiness, or to praise or show approval
May I offer my felicitations on your engagement.
felicitous adjective LITERARY
suitable or right and expressing well the intended thought or feeling
He summed up Jack's achievements in one or two felicitous phrases .
felicitously adverb
a felicitously phrased speech
felicity noun LITERARY HAPPINESS
1. [ U ] happiness, luck, or a condition which produces positive results
the dubious felicity of marriage
felicity noun LITERARY SUITABLE WORDS
2. [ U ] when words or remarks are suitable and express what was intended
As a songwriter, he combined great linguistic felicity with an ear for a tune.
3. [ C usually plural ] a word or remark which is suitable or right and expresses
well the intended thought or feeling
Her article contained one or two verbal felicities which will stay in my mind for
years.
feline adjective
1. belonging or relating to the cat family
feline leukaemia
2. MAINLY APPROVING appearing or behaving like a cat
She had pretty, almost feline features.
feline noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a member of the cat family
a wildlife park with tigers and various other felines
fell verb FALL
1. PAST SIMPLE OF fall
fell verb CUT DOWN
2. [ T ] to cut down a tree
A great number of trees were felled to provide space for grazing.
3. [ T ] to knock someone down, especially in sports
The boxer was felled by a punch to the head.
fell noun [ C ]
a hill or other area of high land, especially in northwest England
fell adjective EVIL
1. LITERARY OR OLD USE evil, or cruel
fell adjective HILL
2. [ before noun ] relating to fells (= hills)
We went fell walking last weekend.
at/in one fell swoop
If you do something at/in one fell swoop, you do it all at the same time
I got all my Christmas shopping done in one fell swoop.
fella noun [ C ] NOT STANDARD
1. a man
There were a couple of fellas leaning up by the bar.
2. a male sexual partner or boyfriend
Was she with her fella?
fella noun [ C ] NOT STANDARD

1. a man
There were a couple of fellas leaning up by the bar.
2. a male sexual partner or boyfriend
Was she with her fella?
fellatio noun [ U ]
the sexual activity of sucking or moving the tongue across the penis in order to
give pleasure and excitement
Compare cunnilingus
fellate verb [ T ]
to perform fellatio on a man
feller noun [ C ]
ANOTHER SPELLING OF fella
fellow adjective [ before noun ]
describes someone who has the same job or interests as you, or is in the same
situation as you
She introduced me to some of her fellow students.
Our fellow travellers were mostly Spanish-speaking tourists.
fellow noun [ C ] MAN
1. INFORMAL a man, used especially in the past by people in a higher social class
He seemed like a decent sort of a fellow.
fellow noun [ C ] MEMBER
2. a member of a group of high-ranking teachers at a particular college or
university or of particular academic societies
Georgia's a fellow of Clare College, Cambridge.
3. a member of an official organization for a particular subject or job
He's a fellow of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
ˌ fellow ˈ feeling noun [ U ]
an understanding or sympathy that you feel for another person because you have
a shared experience
There was a fellow feeling between everyone who had lived through the war.
ˌ fellow ˈ man/ ˈ men noun
your fellow man/men
people generally or the people living around you
He had very little love for his fellow men.
fellowship noun GROUP
1. [ C ] FORMAL a group of people or an organization with the same purpose
the National Schizophrenia Fellowship
the American Fellowship of Reconciliation
2. [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED a friendly feeling that exists between people who have a
shared interest or are doing something as a group
He enjoyed the fellowship of other actors in the company.
Christian fellowship
fellowship noun EDUCATION
3. [ C ] the position of a fellow (= high-ranking teacher at a college)
He's been elected to a fellowship at Merton College.
4. [ C ] an amount of money that is given to postgraduates to allow them to study
a subject at an advanced level
She's applied for a research fellowship.
fellowship noun GROUP

1. [ C ] FORMAL a group of people or an organization with the same purpose
the National Schizophrenia Fellowship
the American Fellowship of Reconciliation
2. [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED a friendly feeling that exists between people who have a
shared interest or are doing something as a group
He enjoyed the fellowship of other actors in the company.
Christian fellowship
fellowship noun EDUCATION
3. [ C ] the position of a fellow (= high-ranking teacher at a college)
He's been elected to a fellowship at Merton College.
4. [ C ] an amount of money that is given to postgraduates to allow them to study
a subject at an advanced level
She's applied for a research fellowship.
felon noun [ C ] LEGAL
a person who is guilty of a serious crime
felony noun [ C or U ] UK OLD-FASHIONED OR US LEGAL
(an example of) serious crime which can be punished by one or more years in
prison
a felony charge
He was convicted of felony.
felt verb
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF feel
felt noun [ U ]
a type of thick soft cloth made from a pressed mass of wool and hair
a felt hat
felt-tip (pen) noun [ C ] ( UK ALSO fibre-tip (pen) )
a pen which has a writing point made of felt
fem adjective
ABBREVIATION FOR feminine (GRAMMAR) or female
female adjective SEX
1. belonging or relating to women, or the sex that can give birth to young or
produce eggs
She was voted the best female vocalist.
Female lions do not have manes.
See also feminine
2. describes plants which produce flowers that will later develop into fruit
female adjective CONNECTING PART
3. SPECIALIZED describes a piece of equipment that has a hole or space into which
another part can be fitted
a female plug/connector
Compare male
femaleness noun [ U ]
female noun [ C ]
1. a female animal or person
The kitten was actually a female, not a male.
Females (= women) represent 40% of the country's workforce.
2. used to refer to a woman in a way that shows no respect
I suspect the doctor thought I was just another hysterical female.
Femidom noun [ C ] UK TRADEMARK
a type of condom which a woman puts in her vagina before having sex
Femidom noun [ C ] UK TRADEMARK
a type of condom which a woman puts in her vagina before having sex
feminine adjective FEMALE
1. acting, or having qualities which are traditionally considered to be suitable for a
woman
With his long dark eyelashes, he looked almost feminine.
The current style in evening wear is soft, romantic and feminine.
Her clothes are always very feminine.
Compare masculine
feminine adjective GRAMMAR
2. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION fem , ALSO f ) belonging to the group of nouns which, in
some languages, are not masculine or neuter
In French, 'table' is feminine.
3. describes a particular form of a noun in English, such as 'actress', which refers
only to a female person. These feminine forms are now being used less often.
femininity noun [ U ] USUALLY APPROVING
Long hair was traditionally regarded as a sign of femininity.
feminism noun [ U ]
the belief that women should be allowed the same rights, power and opportunities
as men and be treated in the same way, or the set of activities intended to achieve this
state
She had a lifelong commitment to feminism.
feminist noun [ C ]
a person who believes in feminism, often being involved in activities that are
intended to achieve change
All her life she was an ardent feminist.
a radical feminist
feminist adjective
relating to feminism
the feminist movement
feminist issues/literature
femme fatale noun [ C ]
a woman who is very attractive in a mysterious way, usually leading people into
danger or causing their destruction
femur noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the long bone in the upper part of the leg
See picture skeleton
femur noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

the long bone in the upper part of the leg
fen noun [ C or U ] ( ALSO ˈ fenland )
an area of low flat wet land
areas of marsh and fen
The road to Ely leads out across the fens.
fence noun [ C ] STRUCTURE
fence
1. a structure which divides two areas of land, similar to a wall but made of wood
or wire and supported with posts
fence noun [ C ] CRIMINAL
2. OLD-FASHIONED SLANG a person who buys and sells stolen goods
fence verb [ I ]
to fight as a sport with a long thin sword
fence sth in phrasal verb [ M ]
to build a fence around an area
She would need to fence in the field if she was to keep a horse there.
fence sb in phrasal verb [ often passive ] INFORMAL
to limit someone's activity in an annoying or discouraging way
I feel a bit fenced in at work because my boss won't let me apply for promotion.
fence sth off phrasal verb [ M ]
to separate an area with a fence in order to stop people or animals from entering
it
The hill had been fenced off to stop animals grazing on it.
ˈ fence ˌ mending noun [ U ]
when you try to improve the relationship between two opposing sides in a
disagreement and help them to agree
Fence mending is what she is best at; she's a wonderful listener.
fence-mending adjective [ before noun ]
The UN Secretary General is on a fence-mending mission.
fencer noun [ C ]
a person who fences (= fights with swords) as a sport
fencer noun [ C ]
a person who fences (= fights with swords) as a sport
ˈ fence ˌ sitter noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
someone who supports both sides in a disagreement because they cannot make a
decision or do not want to annoy or offend either side
fence sitting noun [ U ]
fencing noun [ U ] STRUCTURE
1. fences, or the materials used to make fences
wire/wooden fencing
fencing noun [ U ] SPORT
2. the sport of fighting with long thin swords
a fencing tournament/mask
I did a bit of fencing while I was at college.
fend verb
fend for yourself phrasal verb [ R ]
to take care of and provide for yourself without depending on anyone else
Now that the children are old enough to fend for themselves, we can go away on
holiday by ourselves.
fend sb off phrasal verb [ M ]
to push or send away an attacker or other unwanted person
He managed to fend off his attackers with a stick.
She spent the entire evening fending off unwanted admirers.
fend sth off phrasal verb [ M ]
to avoid dealing with something that is unpleasant or difficult
Somehow she managed to fend off the awkward questions.
fender noun [ C ] FIRE
1. a low metal frame around an open fireplace which stops the coal or wood from
falling out
fender noun [ C ] CAR
2. US FOR wing (PART OF CAR) or mudguard
See picture car exterior
ˈ fender ˌ bender noun [ C ] ( UK prang ) INFORMAL
a road accident in which the vehicles involved are only slightly damaged
ˈ fender ˌ bender noun [ C ] ( UK prang ) INFORMAL
a road accident in which the vehicles involved are only slightly damaged
feng shui , noun [ U ]
an ancient Chinese belief that the way your house is built and the way that you
arrange objects affects your success, health, and happiness
It's good feng shui to have a loving animal in your home.
a feng shui consultant
fennel noun [ U ]
fennel
a plant with a large rounded base that is eaten as a vegetable and small pale
leaves that are used as a herb
fenugreek noun [ U ]
a plant with hard yellowish brown seeds used as a spice in South Asian cooking
feral adjective
existing in a wild state, especially describing an animal that was previously kept
by people
feral dogs/cats
ferment verb [ I or T ]
to (cause something to) change chemically through the action of living
substances, such as yeast or bacteria
You make wine by leaving grape juice to ferment until all the sugar has turned to
alcohol.
fermentation noun [ U ]
ferment noun [ U ] LITERARY
a state of confusion, change, and lack of order or fighting
The resignation of the president has left the country in ferment.
fern noun [ C ]
fern
a green plant with long stems, leaves like feathers and no flowers
fern noun [ C ]
fern
a green plant with long stems, leaves like feathers and no flowers
ferocious adjective
frightening and violent
a ferocious dog
a ferocious battle
She's got a ferocious (= very bad) temper.
The president came in for some ferocious criticism.
ferociously adverb
A female lion defends her young ferociously.
ferocity noun [ U ] (ALSO ferociousness )
The ferocity of the attack shocked a lot of people.
ferret noun [ C ]
a small yellowish-white animal with a long body, bred for hunting rabbits and
other small animals
ferret verb INFORMAL
1. [ I + adverb or preposition ] to search for something by moving things around
with your hands, especially in a drawer, bag or other closed space
I was just ferreting around in my drawer for my passport.
2. [ I ] to search for something or someone, by looking in many places or asking
many questions
After a bit of ferreting, I managed to find his address.
ferret sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to find out a piece of information or find someone or something, after looking in
many places or asking many questions
[ + question word ] I know his name but I haven't yet managed to ferret out
where he lives.
Ferris wheel noun [ C ]
MAINLY US FOR big wheel
ferrous adjective SPECIALIZED
containing or relating to iron
ferrous metals/compounds
ferry noun [ C ] ( ALSO ferry boat )
ferry
a boat or ship for taking passengers and often vehicles across an area of water,
especially as a regular service
a car ferry
We're going across to France by / on the ferry.
We took the ferry to Calais.
ferry verb [ T usually + adv/prep ]
to transport people or goods in a vehicle, especially regularly and often
I spend most of my time ferrying the children about .
ferry noun [ C ] ( ALSO ferry boat )
ferry
a boat or ship for taking passengers and often vehicles across an area of water,
especially as a regular service
a car ferry
We're going across to France by / on the ferry.
We took the ferry to Calais.
ferry verb [ T usually + adv/prep ]
to transport people or goods in a vehicle, especially regularly and often
I spend most of my time ferrying the children about .
fertile adjective LAND
1. describes land that can produce a large number of good quality crops
Compare barren
fertile adjective PEOPLE/ANIMALS/PLANTS
2. describes animals or plants that are able to produce (a lot of) young or fruit
People get less fertile as they get older.
Opposite infertile
3. describes a seed or egg that is able to develop into a new plant or animal
fertile adjective IMAGINATION
4. A fertile mind or imagination is active and produces a lot of interesting and
unusual ideas.
fertile ground for sth
a situation or place which produces good results or a lot of ideas
British politics remains very fertile ground for comedy.
fertility noun [ U ] PEOPLE/ANIMALS/PLANTS
1. (of animals and plants) the quality of being able to produce young or fruit
a fertility symbol
declining fertility rates
fertility noun [ U ] LAND
2. (of land) the quality of producing a large number of good quality crops
the fertility of the soil
fertility noun [ U ] IMAGINATION
3. LITERARY (of the mind or imagination) the quality of producing a lot of unusual
and interesting ideas
fertilize , UK USUALLY fertilise verb [ T ] LAND
1. to spread a natural or chemical substance on land or plants, in order to make
the plants grow well
fertilize , UK USUALLY fertilise verb [ T ] EGG/SEED
2. to cause an egg or seed to start to develop into a new young animal or plant by
joining it with a male cell
Bees fertilize the flowers by bringing pollen.
Once an egg is fertilized by the sperm, it becomes an embryo.
fertilization , UK USUALLY fertilisation noun [ U ]
In humans, fertilization is more likely to occur at certain times of the month.
fertilizer , UK USUALLY fertiliser noun [ C or U ]
a natural or chemical substance which is spread on the land or given to plants, to
make plants grow well
organic fertilizer
a liquid/chemical fertilizer
fertilizer , UK USUALLY fertiliser noun [ C or U ]
a natural or chemical substance which is spread on the land or given to plants, to
make plants grow well
organic fertilizer
a liquid/chemical fertilizer
fervent adjective ( ALSO fervid ) FORMAL
describes beliefs that are strongly and sincerely felt or people who have strong
and sincere beliefs
a fervent supporter of the communist party
It is his fervent hope that a peaceful solution will soon be found.
fervently adverb
The nationalists believe fervently in independence for their country.
fervour UK , US fervor noun [ U ] (
ALSO fervency ) FORMAL
nationalist/religious fervour
fess verb
fess up phrasal verb [ I ] INFORMAL
to admit that you have done something that someone else will not like
Fess up - it was you who ate that last piece of cake, wasn't it?
fest noun , suffix
a beer/film/jazz, etc. fest
a special event where people can enjoy a particular activity or thing
a media-fest
fester verb [ I ] INJURY
1. If a cut or other injury festers, it becomes infected and produces pus
a festering sore
fester verb [ I ] FEELING
2. If an argument or bad feeling festers, it continues so that feelings of hate or
lack of satisfaction increase
It's better to express your anger than let it fester inside you.
a festering argument/dispute
festival noun [ C ]
1. a special day or period, usually in memory of a religious event, with its own
social activities, food or ceremonies
a Jewish/Christian/Hindu festival
2. an organized set of special events, such as musical performances
a folk/pop/rock festival
The Brighton Festival is held every year around May time.
the Cannes Film Festival
festival noun [ C ]
1. a special day or period, usually in memory of a religious event, with its own
social activities, food or ceremonies
a Jewish/Christian/Hindu festival
2. an organized set of special events, such as musical performances
a folk/pop/rock festival
The Brighton Festival is held every year around May time.
the Cannes Film Festival
festive adjective
having or producing happy and enjoyable feelings suitable for a festival or other
special social occasion
a festive mood/occasion
The hall looked very festive with its Christmas tree.
the ˈ festive ˌ season noun [ S ] UK
the period around Christmas and New Year
festivity noun
1. festivities
the parties, meals and other social activities with which people celebrate a special
occasion
"Come in and join the festivities - what will you have to drink?"
2. [ U ] when people are happy and celebrating
festoon verb [ T ]
to decorate a room or other place for a special occasion by hanging coloured
paper, lights or flowers around it, especially in curves
The hall was festooned with Christmas lights and holly.
festoon noun [ C ]
a decorative chain made of coloured paper, flowers, etc. hung in a curve between
two points
feta (cheese) noun [ U ]
a white Greek cheese, usually made from sheep's or goat's milk
fetal adjective
US FOR foetal
fetch verb GET
1. [ T ] to go to another place to get something or someone and bring them back
[ + two objects ] Could you fetch me my glasses/fetch my glasses for me from
the other room, please?
I have to fetch my mother from the station.
fetch verb SELL
2. [ T ] to be sold for a particular amount of money
The paintings fetched over a million dollars.
The house didn't fetch as much as she was hoping it would.
fetch verb HIT
3. [ T + two objects ] OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL to hit someone with the hand
I fetched him a smart blow on the ear!
fetch and carry for sb
to do boring, unskilled jobs for someone, as if you were their servant
fetch up phrasal verb MAINLY US INFORMAL
to arrive somewhere, especially without intending to
After a whole hour of driving, we fetched up back where we started.
fetching adjective
A fetching person or piece of clothing is attractive
a rather fetching off-the-shoulder dress
You look very fetching in your green shorts.
fetchingly adverb
fetching adjective
A fetching person or piece of clothing is attractive
a rather fetching off-the-shoulder dress
You look very fetching in your green shorts.
fetchingly adverb
fête noun [ C ] UK ( US fair )
a public event, often held outside, where you can take part in competitions and
buy small things and food, often organized to collect money for a particular purpose
a summer fête
They're holding the village fête on the green.
fête verb [ T ]
to praise or to welcome someone publicly because of their achievements
She was fêted by audiences both in her own country and abroad.
fetid , foetid adjective FORMAL
smelling extremely bad and stale
fetid air/breath
fetish noun [ C ] INTEREST
1. a sexual interest in an object or a part of the body other than the sexual organs
a rubber/foot fetish
He has a fetish about/for high-heels.
2. an activity or object which you are so interested in that you spend an
unreasonable amount of time thinking about it or doing it
She makes a fetish of organization - it's quite obsessive.
He has a fetish for/about cleanliness.
fetish noun [ C ] RELIGIOUS OBJECT
3. SPECIALIZED an object which is worshipped in some societies because it is
believed to have a spirit or special magical powers
fetishism noun [ U ]
fetishistic adjective
fetishistic religions
fetishist noun [ C ]
a person who has a particular fetish (= interest)
a foot fetishist
fetlock noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the part of a horse's leg at the back, just above the foot, where longer hair grows
fetlock noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

the part of a horse's leg at the back, just above the foot, where longer hair grows
fetter verb [ T ]
1. LITERARY to keep someone within limits or stop them making progress
He felt fettered by a nine-to-five office existence.
2. to tie someone to a place by putting chains around their ankles
fetters plural noun
1. OLD USE a pair of chains which were tied round the legs of prisoners to prevent
them from escaping
2. LITERARY something which severely limits you
the fetters of motherhood
fettle OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
in fine/good fettle
healthy or strong, or in good condition
"How was Jane?" "Oh, she was in fine fettle."
fetus noun [ C ]
US FOR foetus
feud noun [ C ]
an argument which has existed for a long time between two people or groups,
causing a lot of anger or violence
a family feud
a 10-year-old feud between the two countries
a bitter feud over land
feud verb [ I ]
to have a feud with someone
They've been feuding with their neighbours for years over a boundary issue.
feudal adjective
relating to the social system of Western Europe in the Middle Ages or any society
that is organised according to rank
the feudal system
a feudal lord/kingdom/society
feudalism noun [ U ]
fever noun ILLNESS
1. [ C or U ] a medical condition in which the body temperature is higher than
usual and the heart beats very fast
He's got a headache and a slight fever.
fever noun EXCITEMENT
2. [ U ] a state of great excitement
The whole country seems to be in the grip of football fever.
fever noun ILLNESS
1. [ C or U ] a medical condition in which the body temperature is higher than
usual and the heart beats very fast
He's got a headache and a slight fever.
fever noun EXCITEMENT
2. [ U ] a state of great excitement
The whole country seems to be in the grip of football fever.
fevered adjective [ usually before noun ] EXCITED
1. DISAPPROVING unnaturally excited or active
The film is clearly the product of a fevered imagination .
fevered adjective [ usually before noun ] ILL
2. suffering from fever
The nurse wiped my fevered brow.
feverish adjective ILL
1. suffering from fever (= high body temperature)
I'm feeling a bit feverish - I hope it's not the start of flu.
feverish adjective EXCITED/ACTIVE
2. [ before noun ] unnaturally excited or active
Have you seen the feverish activity in the kitchen?
feverishly adverb
They worked feverishly to meet the deadline.
ˈ fever ˌ pitch noun [ U ]
a state of very strong emotion
Excitement among the waiting crowd had reached/was at fever pitch.
few determiner , pronoun SOME
1. a few
some, or a small number of something
I need to get a few things in town.
There are a few cakes left over from the party.
We've been having a few problems with the new computer.
If you can't fit all the cases in your car, I can take a few in mine.
"How many potatoes do you want?" "Oh, just a few, please."
2. used in expressions such as 'quite a few' or 'a good few' to mean quite a large
number
I know quite a few people who've had the same problem.
Lots of people at the club are under twenty, but there are a good few who aren't.
have a few (too many) INFORMAL
to drink quite a large number of, or too many, alcoholic drinks
By the look of her, she'd had a few even before she arrived at the party.
few determiner , pronoun , noun , adjective NOT MANY
1. a small number, not many or not enough
It was embarrassing how few people attended the party.
He is among the few people I can trust.
Very few people can afford to pay those prices.
We leave for France in a few days.
Few of the children can read or write yet.
Few things in this world give me more pleasure than a long bath.
Fewer people smoke these days than used to.
We get few complaints.
According to the survey, as few as 10% of us are happy with our jobs.
The benefits of this scheme are few.
Compare little (NOT ENOUGH)
2. few and far between
not happening or existing very often
Flats which are both comfortable and reasonably priced are few and far between.
a man/woman of few words
a man/woman who says very little
My father was a man of few words, but when he spoke it was worth listening to.
no fewer than FORMAL
used to show that you consider a number to be surprisingly large
No fewer than five hundred delegates attended the conference.
fey adjective LITERARY OFTEN DISAPPROVING
mysterious and strange, or trying to appear like this
He dismissed her later poems as fey and frivolous.
feyness noun [ U ]
fey adjective LITERARY OFTEN DISAPPROVING
mysterious and strange, or trying to appear like this
He dismissed her later poems as fey and frivolous.
feyness noun [ U ]
fez noun [ C ]
fez
a high, cone-shaped hat with a flat top and no brim , usually made of red material
and with threads hanging from the top, especially as worn in the past by men in some
Muslim countries
ff
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR and the following pages
fiancé noun [ C ]
the man who a woman is engaged to be married to
Have you met Christina's fiancé?
fiancée noun [ C ]
the woman who a man is engaged to be married to
fiasco noun [ C ] MAINLY US
something planned that goes wrong and is a complete failure, usually in an
embarrassing way
The show was a fiasco - the lights wouldn't work, one actor forgot his lines and
another fell off the stage.
fiat noun [ C or U ] FORMAL
an order given by a person in authority
No company can set industry standards by fiat.
fib verb [ I ] INFORMAL
to tell a small lie which does not cause any harm, sometimes in a playful way
I can tell he's fibbing because he's smiling!
fib noun [ C ]
a small lie which does not cause any harm
Don't believe him - he's telling fibs again.
fibber noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a person who tells fibs
Fibber! You couldn't run 10km, let alone a marathon!
fibber noun [ C ] INFORMAL

a person who tells fibs
Fibber! You couldn't run 10km, let alone a marathon!
fibre UK , US fiber noun THREAD
1. [ C ] any of the thread-like parts which form plant or artificial material and
which can be made into cloth
The fibres are woven into fabric.
2. [ C or U ] threads when they are in a mass that can be used for making
products such as cloth and rope
Natural fibres such as cotton tend to be cooler.
artificial/man-made/natural fibre
3. [ C or U ] one of various thread-like structures in the body, such as those found
in muscle
muscle fibre(s)
fibre UK , US fiber noun FOOD
4. [ U ] a substance in foods such as fruit, vegetables and brown bread, which
travels through the body as waste and helps the contents of the bowels to pass through
the body easily
You should eat more dietary fibre to reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
fibre UK , US fiber noun CHARACTER
5. [ U ] strength of character
He lacked the moral fibre to be leader.
with every fibre of your being
If you want or believe something with every fibre of your being, you want or
believe it very much
She wanted to win the race with every fibre of her being.
fibreglass UK , US fiberglass noun [ U ]
a strong light material made by twisting together small threads of glass and
plastic, used especially for structures such as cars and boats
a fibreglass hull/speedboat
ˌ fibre ˈ optics plural noun SPECIALIZED
the use of very thin glass or plastic threads through which light can travel to carry
information, especially in telephone, television and computer systems
fibrin noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a substance produced in the liver which makes the blood clot (= dry on a wound)
fibrin noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED

a substance produced in the liver which makes the blood clot (= dry on a wound)
fibrinogen noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a substance produced in the liver that is changed into fibrin to clot the blood when
body tissue is damaged
fibro noun [ U ] AUSTRALIAN
a type of building material made from asbestos and cement
fibro houses
fibrous adjective THREAD
1. made of fibres, or like fibre
fibrous adjective FOOD
2. Food which is fibrous contains fibre.
fibula noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the outer of the two bones in the lower part of the human leg
fickle adjective DISAPPROVING
1. likely to change your opinion or your feelings suddenly and without a good
reason
She's so fickle - she's never been interested in the same man for more than a
week!
The world of popular music is notoriously fickle.
2. describes conditions that are likely to change suddenly and without warning
Fickle winds made sailing conditions difficult.
fickleness noun [ U ]
fiction noun
1. [ U ] the type of book or story which is written about imaginary characters and
events and not based on real people and facts
The book is a work of fiction and not intended as a historical account.
a writer of children's fiction
2. [ C or U ] a false report or statement which you pretend is true
[ + that ] At work she kept up the fiction that she had a university degree.
When he's telling you something, you never know what's fact and what's fiction.
fictional adjective
imaginary
a fictional story
fictional characters
fictional adjective
imaginary
a fictional story
fictional characters
fictionalize , UK USUALLY fictionalise verb [ T ]
to write about a real event or character, but adding imaginary details and
changing the real facts
a fictionalized account of the life of St Francis
fictionalization , UK USUALLY fictionalisation noun [ C or U ]
fictitious adjective
invented and not true or not existing
He dismissed recent rumours about his private life as fictitious.
Characters in this film are entirely fictitious.
fiddle verb CHEAT
1. [ T ] INFORMAL to act dishonestly in order to get something for yourself, or to
change something dishonestly, especially to your advantage
She managed to fiddle a free trip to America.
He had been fiddling the accounts/books/finances for years.
fiddle verb MOVE ABOUT
2. [ I ] to move things about or touch things with no particular purpose
Put your papers down and stop fiddling!
fiddle verb INSTRUMENT
3. [ I ] INFORMAL to play the violin
fiddle while Rome burns
to enjoy yourself or continue working as normal and not give any attention to
something important and unpleasant that is happening that you should be taking action
to prevent
Environmentalists claimed governments were fiddling while Rome burned.
fiddle about/around phrasal verb DISAPPROVING
to spend time doing small things which are not important or necessary
I was just fiddling around in the kitchen.
fiddle (about/around) with sth phrasal verb
1. to make small changes to something to try to make it work
Stop fiddling about with your hair - it looks fine.
Someone's been fiddling around with my computer!
2. to touch or move things with your fingers because you are nervous or bored
He was just fiddling around with the things on his desk.
fiddle noun INSTRUMENT
1. [ C ] INFORMAL a violin
to play the fiddle
fiddle noun DIFFICULTY
2. [ S ] UK INFORMAL something difficult to do, especially because the things
involved are small or need careful use of the fingers
I find threading a needle a terrible fiddle.
[ + to infinitive ] It's a real fiddle to assemble because of all the small parts.
fiddle noun DISHONEST BEHAVIOUR
3. [ C or U ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL something dishonest which someone does in order
to get money or other advantages
a tax fiddle
Everyone suspected they were on the fiddle (= cheating) .
fiddler noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a violin player
fiddler noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a violin player
fiddlesticks exclamation ( US ALSO fiddle-faddle ) OLD-FASHIONED
used to express disagreement or to say that something is nonsense
fiddling adjective [ before noun ]
not important, or of no real interest
fiddling little details
fiddling restrictions
fiddly adjective INFORMAL
difficult to do because the parts involved are small
Repairing a watch is a very fiddly job .
I hate painting the fiddly bits in the corner.
fidelity noun [ U ] LOYALTY
1. FORMAL honest or lasting support, or loyalty, especially to a sexual partner
Somerset Maugham's comedy of marital fidelity, 'The Constant Wife'
How important do you think sexual fidelity is in a marriage?
fidelity noun [ U ] EXACT COPY
2. APPROVING when you copy the detail and quality of an original, such as a picture,
sound or story exactly
The best ink-jet printers can reproduce photographs with amazing fidelity.
fidget verb [ I ]
to make continuous small movements which annoy other people
Children can't sit still for long without fidgeting.
Stop fidgeting about !
fidgety adjective
a fidgety child/audience
fidget noun
1. [ C ] a person who often fidgets
Tim's a terrible fidget.
2. the ˈ fidgets UK INFORMAL
when you keep fidgeting
I got the fidgets halfway through the lecture.
fiduciary adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the responsibility to look after someone else's money in a correct way
a breach of fiduciary duty
fiduciary adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the responsibility to look after someone else's money in a correct way
a breach of fiduciary duty
field noun LAND
1. [ C ] an area of land, used for growing crops or keeping animals, usually
surrounded by a fence
We drove past fields of ripening wheat.
The cows were all standing in one corner of the field.
2. the field
an area of land in which you are working or studying
I spoke to an aid worker who had recently returned from the field.
field noun SPORTS GROUND
3. [ C ] an area, usually covered with grass, used for playing sport
the school playing/sports field
a football/hockey/rugby field
4. take the field
to go onto the field at the start of a game
There were loud cheers as the Irish team took the field.
field noun AREA OF INTEREST
5. [ C ] an area of activity or interest
the field of history/science/medicine
Are you still in the same field (= Are you doing the same type of work) ?
6. not be/be outside your field
to be something you do not know much about
Programming really isn't my field - you'd better ask Phil.
field noun COMPETITORS
7. [ S + singular or plural verb ] all the competitors taking part in a race or
activity
The race started with a field of eleven, but two horses fell.
We have a strong field this afternoon.
Jones finished ahead of the field.
field noun COMPUTER
8. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a division of a database (= collection of similar information on
a computer) which contains a particular type of information, such as names or numbers
sb's field of vision
the whole area that someone can see
leave the field clear for sb
to stop competing with someone, making it possible for them to succeed
John decided not to apply for the job, which left the field clear for Emma.
field verb BALL
1. [ I or T ] to catch or pick up the ball after it has been hit in a game such as
cricket or baseball, and to try to prevent the other team from scoring
He fielded the ball well.
Our team is fielding first.
field verb ANSWER
2. [ T ] to answer something cleverly or to avoid answering something directly
He fielded some awkward questions very skilfully.
field verb TEAM
3. [ T ] to have or produce a team of people to take part in an activity or event
The company fielded a group of experts to take part in the conference.
-field suffix
an area of land containing a particular natural substance
an oilfield
a coalfield
field noun LAND
1. [ C ] an area of land, used for growing crops or keeping animals, usually
surrounded by a fence
We drove past fields of ripening wheat.
The cows were all standing in one corner of the field.
2. the field
an area of land in which you are working or studying
I spoke to an aid worker who had recently returned from the field.
field noun SPORTS GROUND
3. [ C ] an area, usually covered with grass, used for playing sport
the school playing/sports field
a football/hockey/rugby field
4. take the field
to go onto the field at the start of a game
There were loud cheers as the Irish team took the field.
field noun AREA OF INTEREST
5. [ C ] an area of activity or interest
the field of history/science/medicine
Are you still in the same field (= Are you doing the same type of work) ?
6. not be/be outside your field
to be something you do not know much about
Programming really isn't my field - you'd better ask Phil.
field noun COMPETITORS
7. [ S + singular or plural verb ] all the competitors taking part in a race or
activity
The race started with a field of eleven, but two horses fell.
We have a strong field this afternoon.
Jones finished ahead of the field.
field noun COMPUTER
8. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a division of a database (= collection of similar information on
a computer) which contains a particular type of information, such as names or numbers
sb's field of vision
the whole area that someone can see
leave the field clear for sb
to stop competing with someone, making it possible for them to succeed
John decided not to apply for the job, which left the field clear for Emma.
field verb BALL
1. [ I or T ] to catch or pick up the ball after it has been hit in a game such as
cricket or baseball, and to try to prevent the other team from scoring
He fielded the ball well.
Our team is fielding first.
field verb ANSWER
2. [ T ] to answer something cleverly or to avoid answering something directly
He fielded some awkward questions very skilfully.
field verb TEAM
3. [ T ] to have or produce a team of people to take part in an activity or event
The company fielded a group of experts to take part in the conference.
-field suffix
an area of land containing a particular natural substance
an oilfield
a coalfield
ˈ field ˌ day noun [ C ] US
a special day of organized sports or other outside activities for students
have a field day
to enjoy yourself very much or take advantage of an opportunity
The newspapers had a field day when the wedding was announced (= they wrote
a lot about it and printed many photographs of it) .
fielder noun [ C ]
any member of the team which is fielding in a game such as cricket or baseball
and tries to prevent the opposition from scoring
ˈ field e ˌ vent noun [ C ]
a sports event in which competitors take part one after the other rather than
racing or competing together
High jump and javelin throwing are field events.
ˈ field ˌ glasses plural noun
binoculars
ˈ field ˌ hockey noun [ C ]
US FOR hockey
ˈ field ˌ marshal noun [ C ]
a British army officer of the highest rank
ˈ field ˌ trip noun [ C ]
a visit made by students to study something away from their school or college
a geography field trip
fieldwork noun [ U ]
study which consists of practical activities that are done away from your school,
college or place of work
They had to go to Africa to do their fieldwork.
fiend noun [ C ]
1. an evil and cruel person
He was portrayed in the media as a complete fiend.
2. someone who likes something very much or is very interested in something
a health/sex/chocolate fiend
McCormack is a fiend for punctuality.
fiendish adjective
1. evil and cruel
a fiendish attack
2. clever and difficult, sometimes in a bad way
a fiendish crossword
a fiendish plot/scheme
3. UK OLD-FASHIONED very great
a fiendish price
I'm in a fiendish hurry.
fiendishness noun [ U ]
fiendishly adverb INFORMAL
extremely
fiendishly difficult
fierce adjective
1. physically violent and frightening
a fierce attack/battle
Two men were shot during fierce fighting last weekend.
2. strong and powerful
Fierce winds/seas prevented the race from taking place.
Fire fighters had to retreat from the fierce heat.
3. showing strong feeling or energetic activity
The expansion plans will face fierce opposition/resistance from
environmentalists.
There is fierce competition to join the Special Branch.
4. US INFORMAL difficult
The chemistry exam was fierce!
fierceness noun [ U ]
something fierce US INFORMAL
very much
I need a cold drink something fierce.
fiercely adverb
1. in a frightening, violent or powerful way
to growl/fight fiercely
to burn fiercely
2. extremely
She's fiercely competitive/independent.
fiery adjective RED
1. bright red, like fire
a fiery sky/sunset
fiery adjective FOOD
2. describes food which causes a strong burning feeling in the mouth
a fiery chilli sauce
fiery adjective STRONG FEELINGS
3. showing very strong feeling
A fiery debate ensued.
a fiery temperament/temper
a fiery orator/speech
fiery adjective RED
1. bright red, like fire
a fiery sky/sunset
fiery adjective FOOD
2. describes food which causes a strong burning feeling in the mouth
a fiery chilli sauce
fiery adjective STRONG FEELINGS
3. showing very strong feeling
A fiery debate ensued.
a fiery temperament/temper
a fiery orator/speech
fiesta noun [ C ]
a public celebration in Spain or Latin America, especially one on a religious
holiday, with different types of entertainment and activities
fifteen , number
the number 15
thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen
"How many books were returned?" "Fifteen (books)."
fifteenth , ordinal number
15th written as a word
fifteenth , noun [ C ]
one of fifteen equal parts of something
fifth ordinal number
the fifth floor of the building
Tomorrow is the fifth (of September).
I take/plead the Fifth (Amendment) US HUMOROUS
something that you say in order to tell someone you are not going to answer a
question
'So, who do you like best, Jenny or Kim?' 'Sorry, I take the Fifth on that.'
fifth noun [ C ]
one of five equal parts of something
One fifth is the same as 20 percent.
ˌ fifth ˈ column noun [ C ]
a group of people who support the enemies of the country they live in and
secretly help them
fifth columnist noun [ C ]
a member of such a group
fifties plural noun
1. A person's fifties are the period in which they are aged between 50 and 59
My dad's in his fifties.
2. the fifties
a. the range of temperature between 50° and 59°
It's been in the fifties all week.
b. the period of years between 50 and 59 in any century
Rock and roll first became popular in the fifties (= between 1950 and 1959) .
fifties plural noun
1. A person's fifties are the period in which they are aged between 50 and 59
My dad's in his fifties.
2. the fifties
a. the range of temperature between 50° and 59°
It's been in the fifties all week.
b. the period of years between 50 and 59 in any century
Rock and roll first became popular in the fifties (= between 1950 and 1959) .
fiftieth ordinal number
She is the fiftieth person to die of the disease.
fiftieth noun [ C ]
one of fifty equal parts of something
fifty number
the number 50
forty, fifty, sixty
"How fast were they driving?" "They were doing fifty (miles an hour)."
fifty-fifty adverb , adjective
(into) equal halves
They divided the prize fifty-fifty.
There's only a fifty-fifty chance that she'll survive the operation.
fig noun [ C ]
fig
a sweet, soft, purple or green fruit with many seeds, or a tree on which these
grow
not care/give a fig OLD-FASHIONED
to not be at all worried by or interested in something
They can say what they like. I don't give a fig.
fig. noun
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR figure (PICTURE)
fig. adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR figurative (LANGUAGE)
fight verb
1. [ I or T ] to use physical force to try to defeat another person or group of
people
There were children fighting in the playground.
The soldiers fought from house to house.
They fought with (= on the side of) the North against the South.
The birds were fighting over (= competing for) a scrap of food.
They fight like cats and dogs (= fight or argue very angrily and violently) .
They fought to the bitter end/to the death (= until everyone on one side was
dead or completely defeated) .
2. [ I or T ] to use a lot of effort to defeat or achieve something, or to stop
something happening
He fought the disease bravely for three years.
We need the public's help in fighting crime .
He fought against racism.
Vitamin C is thought to help fight colds and flu.
They had to fight hard for improvements to the road system.
One of the passengers was fighting for her life (= so ill or injured that she
might die) last night after receiving multiple injuries in the collision.
With debts of over $2 million, the corporation is fighting for its life (= people
are trying hard to stop it being destroyed)
I had to fight (back) (= tried hard not to show or produce) the tears when he
said he was leaving.
The bank fought off (= successfully prevented) a takeover by another bank
recently.
I was getting a cold at the start of the week but I seem to have fought it off (=
got rid of it) .
3. [ I ] INFORMAL to argue
I wish they wouldn't fight in front of the kids.
I could hear them fighting about money again.
fight your corner UK
to defend something that you believe in by arguing
You'll have to be prepared to fight your corner if you want them to extend the
project.
fight a losing battle
to try hard to do something when there is no chance that you will succeed
fight fire with fire
to use the same methods as someone else in order to defeat them
fight it out INFORMAL
to decide which of a group of people will get something good when there is only
one or a few of that thing
There's only one ticket so you'll have to fight it out between you.
fight shy of UK
to try to avoid something
Before this course I'd always fought shy of technology.
He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day. SAYING
used to say that it can be a good and acceptable decision to leave a difficult
situation
fight back phrasal verb
to defend yourself when someone attacks you or causes problems for you
fight noun
1. [ C ] an argument or an occasion when someone uses physical force to try to
defeat someone
Jeff's always getting into/starting fights.
The older boys broke up (= stopped) the fight.
UK I had a stand-up fight with her (= we argued strongly) about the telephone
bill.
Have you got tickets for the big fight (= boxing competition) ?
He put up a fight when the police tried to arrest him.
2. [ C ] when you use a lot of effort to defeat someone or achieve something, or
to stop something happening
We must continue the fight against homelessness.
He died last week after a long fight with cancer.
They put up a good fight (= played well) against a more experienced football
team.
3. [ U ] the wish or ability to fight or act energetically
The team came out on the field full of fight.
a fight to the finish
when two groups or people intend to fight until one side has been defeated
fight verb
1. [ I or T ] to use physical force to try to defeat another person or group of
people
There were children fighting in the playground.
The soldiers fought from house to house.
They fought with (= on the side of) the North against the South.
The birds were fighting over (= competing for) a scrap of food.
They fight like cats and dogs (= fight or argue very angrily and violently) .
They fought to the bitter end/to the death (= until everyone on one side was
dead or completely defeated) .
2. [ I or T ] to use a lot of effort to defeat or achieve something, or to stop
something happening
He fought the disease bravely for three years.
We need the public's help in fighting crime .
He fought against racism.
Vitamin C is thought to help fight colds and flu.
They had to fight hard for improvements to the road system.
One of the passengers was fighting for her life (= so ill or injured that she
might die) last night after receiving multiple injuries in the collision.
With debts of over $2 million, the corporation is fighting for its life (= people
are trying hard to stop it being destroyed)
I had to fight (back) (= tried hard not to show or produce) the tears when he
said he was leaving.
The bank fought off (= successfully prevented) a takeover by another bank
recently.
I was getting a cold at the start of the week but I seem to have fought it off (=
got rid of it) .
3. [ I ] INFORMAL to argue
I wish they wouldn't fight in front of the kids.
I could hear them fighting about money again.
fight your corner UK
to defend something that you believe in by arguing
You'll have to be prepared to fight your corner if you want them to extend the
project.
fight a losing battle
to try hard to do something when there is no chance that you will succeed
fight fire with fire
to use the same methods as someone else in order to defeat them
fight it out INFORMAL
to decide which of a group of people will get something good when there is only
one or a few of that thing
There's only one ticket so you'll have to fight it out between you.
fight shy of UK
to try to avoid something
Before this course I'd always fought shy of technology.
He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day. SAYING
used to say that it can be a good and acceptable decision to leave a difficult
situation
fight back phrasal verb
to defend yourself when someone attacks you or causes problems for you
fight noun
1. [ C ] an argument or an occasion when someone uses physical force to try to
defeat someone
Jeff's always getting into/starting fights.
The older boys broke up (= stopped) the fight.
UK I had a stand-up fight with her (= we argued strongly) about the telephone
bill.
Have you got tickets for the big fight (= boxing competition) ?
He put up a fight when the police tried to arrest him.
2. [ C ] when you use a lot of effort to defeat someone or achieve something, or
to stop something happening
We must continue the fight against homelessness.
He died last week after a long fight with cancer.
They put up a good fight (= played well) against a more experienced football
team.
3. [ U ] the wish or ability to fight or act energetically
The team came out on the field full of fight.
a fight to the finish
when two groups or people intend to fight until one side has been defeated
fighter noun [ C ] PERSON
1. someone who fights
She's a fighter (= she tries hard and will not easily give up) .
fighter noun [ C ] AIRCRAFT
fighter
2. a small fast military aircraft used for chasing and destroying enemy aircraft
a fighter plane/aircraft
a fighter pilot
fighting noun [ U ]
when people fight, especially in a war
Fierce fighting has continued all day on the outskirts of the town.
ˌ fighting ˈ chance noun [ S ]
a small but real possibility that something can be done
If we can raise enough money, there's a fighting chance (that) we can save the
project.
ˌ fighting ˈ fit adjective [ after verb ] UK
extremely healthy
At 73, she's still fighting fit, walking five miles a day.
ˌ fighting ˈ spirit noun [ U ]
the willingness to compete or to do things which are difficult
Don't take no for an answer - where's your fighting spirit?
ˈ fighting ˌ words noun [ U ] ( UK ALSO fighting talk )
speech that shows you are willing to fight
ˈ fig ˌ leaf noun [ C usually singular ] LEAF
1. the type of leaf sometimes used in paintings to cover a naked person's sex
organs
ˈ fig ˌ leaf noun [ C usually singular ] FALSE
2. UK something that hides something else, especially something that is dishonest
or embarrassing
The spokesperson said the information campaign was a fig leaf to hide the most
regressive tax in history.
figment noun
a figment of sb's imagination
something which seems real but is not
Was it just a figment of my imagination or did I hear John's voice in the other
room?
figment noun
a figment of sb's imagination
something which seems real but is not
Was it just a figment of my imagination or did I hear John's voice in the other
room?
figurative adjective LANGUAGE
1. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION fig. ) (of words and phrases) used not with their basic
meaning but with a more imaginative meaning
Of course, she was using the term 'massacre' in the figurative sense.
Compare literal
figurative adjective ART
2. (of a painting, drawing, etc.) representing something as it really looks, rather
than in an abstract way
figuratively adverb
in a way which uses words and phrases with a more imaginative meaning than
usual
Figuratively speaking, it was a blow right between the eyes (= it was a bad shock)
.
figure noun [ C ] NUMBER
1. the symbol for a number or an amount expressed in numbers
Can you read this figure? Is it a three or an eight?
Write the amount in both words and figures.
I looked quickly down the column of figures.
He earns a six-figure salary (= an amount of money with six figures) .
2. in single/double figures
between 1 and 9/between 10 and 99
The job vacancies are now in double figures.
figure noun [ C ] SHAPE
3. the shape of the human body, or a person
I could see two tall figures in the distance.
A strange bearded figure (= person) entered the room.
FIGURATIVE She was a central/key/leading figure in (= was an important person
in) the movement for constitutional reform.
4. a painting, drawing or model of a person
There are several reclining figures in the painting.
5. a woman's body shape
She's got a lovely figure.
She got her figure back (= returned to her usual shape) after having the baby.
figure noun [ C ] PICTURE
6. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION fig. ) a picture or drawing, often with a number, in a
book or other document
Please see figures 8 and 9.
a fine figure of a man/woman OFTEN HUMOROUS
a person who is tall, with a large physically attractive body
put a figure on it
to say exactly how much something is or costs
I'm sure we'll make a good profit, but I couldn't put a figure on it.
figure verb EXPECT
1. [ I ] MAINLY US to expect or think that something will happen
[ + ( that ) ] We figured (that) you'd want to rest after your journey.
figure verb APPEAR
2. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to be, appear, take part or be included in
something
Their names did not figure in the list of finalists.
They denied that violence and intimidation had figured prominently in achieving
the decision.
figure verb NUMBER
3. [ T ] US to calculate an amount
I'm still figuring my taxes.
Go figure! MAINLY US
used when you tell someone a fact and you then want to say that the fact is
surprising or strange or stupid
It's a terrible movie and it made $200 million. Go figure!
it figures ( ALSO that figures ) INFORMAL
used to say that you are not surprised by something unpleasant that has
happened
"Dad, Sadie spilled her milk all over the floor." "It figures."
figure sth/sb out phrasal verb INFORMAL
to finally understand something or someone, or find the solution to a problem
after a lot of thought
[ + question word ] I can't figure out why he did it.
I find him really odd - I can't figure him out at all.
Can you figure out the answer to question 5?
figurehead noun [ C ] PERSON
1. someone who has the position of leader in an organization but who has no real
power
The President of this company is just a figurehead - the Chief Executive has day-
to-day control.
figurehead noun [ C ] MODEL
2. a painted model, usually of a person, which in the past was fixed to the front of
a ship
figurehead noun [ C ] PERSON
1. someone who has the position of leader in an organization but who has no real
power
The President of this company is just a figurehead - the Chief Executive has day-
to-day control.
figurehead noun [ C ] MODEL
2. a painted model, usually of a person, which in the past was fixed to the front of
a ship
ˌ figure of ˈ eight noun [ C ] UK AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH ( US figure eight )
the shape made when drawing an 8
She skated a perfect figure of eight.
ˌ figure of ˈ fun noun [ C usually singular ] MAINLY UK
someone who is laughed at unkindly
ˌ figure of ˈ speech noun [ C ]
an expression which uses words to mean something different from their ordinary
meaning
'Get up with the lark' is a figure of speech, meaning 'Get out of bed early'.
ˈ figure ˌ skating noun [ U ]
a type of skating which involves circular patterns and often includes jumps
figurine noun [ C ]
a small model of a human, usually made of clay or porcelain
Fiji noun [ U ]
See table of Geographical names .
Fijian noun [ C ] , adjective
filament noun [ C ]
1. a thin thread or fibre of natural or artificial material
Toothbrushes should be replaced when the filaments become worn.
glass/silk filaments
2. a thin wire, especially one which lights up inside an electric light bulb
a tungsten filament
filbert noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a hazelnut
filbert noun [ C ] MAINLY US

a hazelnut
filch verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to steal something of little value
Who's filched my pencils?
file noun CONTAINER
file
1. [ C or U ] any of several different types of container used to store papers,
letters and other documents in an ordered way, especially in an office
a box/envelope file
secret/confidential/personnel files
You'll find it in the files under 'C'.
We keep your records on file for five years.
See also picture file
file noun WRITTEN RECORD
2. [ C ] written records that are kept about a particular person or subject
The police have opened a file on local burglaries.
file noun COMPUTER
3. [ C ] information stored on a computer as one unit with one name
What's the file name?
I'm going to copy/save this file.
file noun LINE
4. [ C or U ] a long line of people or animals, one behind another
They were horrified to see files of ants marching through the kitchen.
They walked in (single) file (= one behind another) .
file noun TOOL
5. [ C ] a thin flat or rounded metal tool, which has rough surfaces for rubbing
wooden or metal objects to make them smooth or to change their shape
See picture file
file verb STORE/RECORD INFORMATION
1. [ T ] to store information in a careful and particular way
We file these reports (= put them in a file) under country of origin.
2. [ T ] LEGAL to officially record something, especially in a law court
The police filed charges against the two suspects.
3. [ T ] News reporters file a story by sending it to their office, usually by
telephone, email or other electronic method
Our foreign correspondent filed this report earlier today.
file verb WALK IN A LINE
4. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to walk in a line, one behind another
The visitors filed through the entrance to the ticket offices.
file verb TOOL
5. [ I + adverb or preposition T ] to use a file in order to make an object smooth
or to change its shape
File (down) the sharp edges.
[ + object + adjective ] The surface had been filed smooth.
She filed her nails .
file for sth phrasal verb LEGAL
to make an official request for something such as divorce or bankruptcy
ˈ file ˌ cabinet noun [ C ]
US FOR filing cabinet
ˈ file ˌ cabinet noun [ C ]
US FOR filing cabinet
ˈ file ex ˌ tension noun [ C ]
a dot followed by three letters, such as .doc or .jpg, that forms the end of the
name of a computer document
Be sure to type in the document name and file extension before you click 'save'.
ˈ file ˌ sharing noun [ U ]
the activity of putting a file from your computer onto a special place on your
computer so that other people can copy it, or look at it using the Internet
filet noun [ C ] , verb , [ T ]
US FOR fillet
filial adjective FORMAL
of a son or daughter
filial duty/respect/affection
filibuster verb [ I or T ] MAINLY US
to make a long speech in order to delay or prevent a new law being made
Conceivably, supporters of the law could filibuster to prevent it from being
revised.
filibuster noun [ C ]
filigree noun [ U ]
1. delicate jewellery made from twisted, especially silver, wire
a beautiful filigree brooch
filigree ironwork
2. decorative open patterns
The sunlight shining through the branches made a filigree pattern on the tiles.
filing noun PUTTING IN A CONTAINER
1. [ U ] the activity of putting documents, electronic information, etc. into files
a filing cabinet
Her job involves filing and other general office work.
filing noun RECORD
2. [ C ] LEGAL an official record of something
a bankruptcy filing
filing noun METAL PIECES
3. filings
small pieces of metal which are removed from a larger piece by filing
iron filings
ˈ filing ˌ cabinet noun [ C ] UK ( US file cabinet )
filing cabinet
a large piece of furniture in an office, used for holding documents
See also picture in the office
ˈ filing ˌ cabinet noun [ C ] UK ( US file cabinet )

filing cabinet
a large piece of furniture in an office, used for holding documents
See also picture in the office
Filipino noun [ C ]
fill verb SPACE
1. [ I or T ] to make or become full; to use empty space
I filled the bucket with water.
I could hear the cistern filling.
I went to the library to fill (in) an hour (= use that period of time) until the
meeting.
FIGURATIVE Happy sounds filled the room (= could be heard everywhere in the
room) .
FIGURATIVE The thought of it fills me with (= makes me feel) dread.
2. [ I or T ] to put a substance into an empty space
Before painting, fill (in) all the cracks in the plaster.
These cakes are filled with cream.
FIGURATIVE The product clearly filled a need/gap in the market .
3. [ T ] to put a substance into a hole in a tooth to repair it
You should get that cavity filled.
fill verb JOB
4. [ T ] to give a job or position to someone
I'm sorry, the job/post/vacancy has already been filled.
We would prefer to fill the post with (= give it to) a recent graduate.
fill sth in/out phrasal verb [ M ]
to write the necessary information on an official document
to fill in a form/questionnaire
fill sb in phrasal verb [ M ]
to give someone extra or missing information
I filled her in on the latest gossip.
fill in phrasal verb
to do someone else's work for them because they cannot or will not do it
themselves
Volunteers would fill in for teachers in the event of a strike.
I'm not her regular secretary - I'm just filling in.
fill out phrasal verb
If someone who is thin fills out, they become heavier and more rounded, often
because they have grown older.
fill (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to become full, or to make something become full
The seats in the hall were filling up fast.
As she read the poem, their eyes filled up with tears.
fill sb up phrasal verb [ M ]
If food fills you up, it makes you feel as if you have eaten enough
That sandwich really filled me up.
fill noun [ U ]
someone's fill is as much as they want or as much as they can deal with
He took only a few minutes to eat/drink his fill.
I'd had my fill of his rude remarks.
-filled suffix
full of the stated thing
a smoke-filled room
a fun-filled weekend
-filled suffix
full of the stated thing
a smoke-filled room
a fun-filled weekend
filler noun
1. [ C or U ] a substance that is used to fill small holes and cracks , especially in
wood and walls
2. [ C ] a short text or drawings used to fill extra space in a magazine or
newspaper, or talk, music, etc. used to fill extra time in a radio or television broadcast
fillet noun [ C or U ] UK ( US filet )
a piece of meat or fish without bones
a piece of cod fillet
fillet of plaice
small trout fillets
fillet steak
fillet of beef
fillet verb [ T ] UK ( US filet )
to cut a piece of meat or fish from the bones
filling noun
1. [ U ] any material used to fill something
duvets with synthetic filling
2. [ C or U ] the layer of food inside a sandwich, cake, etc
pies with sweet or savoury fillings
sandwich fillings
3. [ C ] the artificial substance put into holes in teeth to repair them
filling adjective
If food is filling, you feel full after you have eaten only a little of it.
ˈ filling ˌ station noun [ C ]
UK AND US FOR petrol station
fillip noun [ C usually singular ]
something which causes a sudden improvement
The athletics win provided a much-needed fillip to/for national pride.
The news gave the stock market a big fillip.
filly noun [ C ]
a young female horse
Compare colt
filly noun [ C ]
a young female horse
Compare colt
film noun MOVING PICTURES
1. [ C or U ] ( US movie ) a series of moving pictures, usually shown in a cinema
or on television and often telling a story
What's your favourite film?
We took the children to (see) a film.
She had a long career in films/film (= the business of making films) .
a film star/critic
the film industry
a film-maker
Her last film was shot (= made) on location in South America.
I hate people talking while I'm watching a film.
Would you like to go and see a film tonight?
film noun MATERIAL
2. [ C or U ] (a length of) dark plastic-like material which can record images as
photographs or as a moving picture
a roll of film
a 24 exposure/16mm/high-speed film
A passer-by recorded the incident on film.
I'm getting my film developed at the chemist's.
film noun LAYER
3. [ C ] a thin layer of something on a surface
a film of dust/oil/grease
a film of smoke
film verb [ I or T ]
to record moving pictures with a camera, usually to make a film for the cinema or
television
Most of the scenes were filmed in a studio.
They filmed for a week in Spain.
film over phrasal verb
If something films over, it becomes lightly covered with a thin layer of something
Her eyes suddenly filmed over ( with tears).
ˈ film di ˌ rector noun [ C ]
a person who is in charge of a film and tells the actors how to play their parts
ˈ film di ˌ rector noun [ C ]
a person who is in charge of a film and tells the actors how to play their parts
filmgoer noun [ C ] ( MAINLY US moviegoer )
a person who regularly goes to watch films at the cinema
filmgoing noun [ U ] , adjective [ before noun ] UK ( MAINLY US moviegoing )
the filmgoing public
filming noun [ U ]
the activity of making a film
Filming was halted after the lead actor became ill.
ˈ film ˌ maker noun [ C ]
someone who is in charge of making a film
ˈ film ˌ star noun [ C ] MAINLY UK ( MAINLY US movie star )
a famous cinema actor
ˈ film ˌ strip noun [ C ] UK
a length of film with a set of pictures which are shown one at a time
a health education film strip
filmy adjective
very thin and often transparent
filmy material
a filmy dress
filminess noun [ U ]
Filofax noun [ C ] ( ALSO personal organizer ) TRADEMARK
a small book in which a record can be kept of telephone numbers, future plans
and visits, business meetings, etc.
filo (pastry) UK , US phyllo (pastry) noun [ U ]
a type of pastry made in thin, almost transparent layers
filter noun [ C ] EQUIPMENT FOR REMOVING STH
1. any of several types of equipment or devices for removing solids from liquids or
gases, or for removing particular types of light
a water filter
a dust filter
I like to experiment with different light filters on my camera.
Ozone is the Earth's primary filter for ultraviolet radiation.
See picture filter
filter noun [ C ] TRAFFIC
2. UK a green arrow-shaped light which is part of a set of traffic lights and which
tells drivers when they can turn left or right
a traffic filter
a left/right filter
See picture filter
filter verb APPEAR GRADUALLY
1. [ I + adverb or preposition ] to appear or happen gradually or to a limited
degree
News filtered down to us during the day.
Reports about an accident began to filter in .
Sunlight filtered through the branches.
filter verb REMOVE
2. [ T ] to remove solids from liquids or gases, or to remove particular types of
light, using special equipment
The water is filtered to remove any impurities.
Devices in the two chimneys would filter (out) (= remove) radioactive dust.
filter in phrasal verb UK
to join a line of moving traffic without causing other vehicles to slow down
filo (pastry) UK , US phyllo (pastry) noun [ U ]
a type of pastry made in thin, almost transparent layers
filter noun [ C ] EQUIPMENT FOR REMOVING STH
1. any of several types of equipment or devices for removing solids from liquids or
gases, or for removing particular types of light
a water filter
a dust filter
I like to experiment with different light filters on my camera.
Ozone is the Earth's primary filter for ultraviolet radiation.
See picture filter
filter noun [ C ] TRAFFIC
2. UK a green arrow-shaped light which is part of a set of traffic lights and which
tells drivers when they can turn left or right
a traffic filter
a left/right filter
See picture filter
filter verb APPEAR GRADUALLY
1. [ I + adverb or preposition ] to appear or happen gradually or to a limited
degree
News filtered down to us during the day.
Reports about an accident began to filter in .
Sunlight filtered through the branches.
filter verb REMOVE
2. [ T ] to remove solids from liquids or gases, or to remove particular types of
light, using special equipment
The water is filtered to remove any impurities.
Devices in the two chimneys would filter (out) (= remove) radioactive dust.
filter in phrasal verb UK
to join a line of moving traffic without causing other vehicles to slow down
ˈ filter ˌ bed noun [ C ]
an area of stones and sand through which water flows to be cleaned
ˈ filter/ ˈ filtered ˌ coffee noun [ C or U ] UK ( US drip coffee )
coffee made by slowly pouring hot water through crushed coffee beans in a coffee
filter
ˈ filter ˌ paper noun
1. [ U ] thin paper which allows only liquid to flow through
2. [ C ] UK a paper cone which allows only water through and is used to make
filter coffee
See picture filter
ˈ filter ˌ tip noun [ C ] ( ALSO filter-tipped cigarette )
a cigarette with a filter on the end to remove tar from the tobacco
See picture filter
filth noun [ U ] DIRT
1. thick, unpleasant dirt
The floor was covered in filth.
filth noun [ U ] OFFENSIVE WORDS/PICTURES
2. sexually offensive words or pictures
People complain about the filth on TV and in the press.
filthiness noun [ U ]
the quality of being very dirty
filthy adjective DIRTY
1. extremely or unpleasantly dirty
Wash your hands - they're filthy!
Look at this cloth - it's filthy!
I've never smoked - it's a filthy habit .
FIGURATIVE That girl just gave me a filthy look (= looked at me in a very
unpleasant, disapproving way) .
UK He was in a filthy (= a very bad) temper/mood .
filthy adjective OFFENSIVE
2. containing sexually offensive words or pictures
filthy language
a filthy joke
HUMOROUS You've got a filthy mind!
filthy adverb
1. filthy dirty
extremely dirty
2. filthy rich INFORMAL
extremely rich
filtrate noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a liquid, gas or other substance that has passed through a filter
filtration noun [ U ]
the act of filtering something
a filtration unit/plant
The technology exists to remove all of these contaminants through filtration.
fin noun [ C ]
a thin vertical part sticking out of the body of especially a fish or an aircraft which
helps balance and movement
We could see the fin of a shark as it slowly circled our boat.
a fish's dorsal fin
The aircraft has a long tail fin.
finagle verb [ I or T ] US
to use tricks and dishonest methods to get what you want
He somehow finagled his way into the army as a lieutenant.
final adjective
1. last
a final warning/offer
the final chapters of a book
the final years
The game is in its final stages .
2. in the final analysis
used when you are talking about what is most important or true in a situation
In the final analysis, it is the drug companies that are going to profit from this
policy.
3. that's final
used to show that you are certain you will not change your decision about
something
It's no use begging me - I'm not coming and that's final.
final noun COMPETITION
1. [ C ] the last in a series of games, races or competitions, usually the one in
which the winner is chosen
Last year we got through to the final.
The men's basketball final will be on Sunday.
2. the finals
the last set of games in a competition
Do you think Scotland will qualify for the European Championship finals?
final noun EXAMINATION
3. finals
UK the examinations taken at the end of a university or college course
I'm taking my finals in June.
The finals results have gone up on the noticeboard.
4. [ C ] US ( ALSO final exam ) a test taken on a subject at the end of a school year
or college course
The final exam for this class will be on May 21st.
When is your chemistry/French/algebra final?
ˌ final de ˈ mand noun [ C ]
the last request for the payment of money owed for goods or services before an
action is taken against the person who owes that money
finale noun [ C usually singular ]
the last part of especially a musical or theatrical performance, which is often very
exciting or emotional
All the dancers come on stage during the grand finale.
FIGURATIVE What better finale to her career than this extravagant gesture?
finalist noun [ C ]
a person or group competing in a final
finality noun [ U ] FORMAL
the quality of being finished and therefore not able to be changed
the finality of death
finalize , UK USUALLY finalise verb [ T ]
to make a final and certain decision about a plan, date, etc
We'll finalize the details later.
finalization , UK USUALLY finalisation noun [ U ]
the finalization of negotiations
the ˌ final ˈ judgment noun [ S ]
Judgment Day
finally adverb AFTER TIME
1. after a long time or some difficulty
We finally got home at midnight.
After months of looking he finally found a job.
finally adverb LAST
2. used especially at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the last point or
idea
Finally, I'd like to thank everyone for coming this evening.
finally adverb CERTAINLY
3. in a way that will not be changed
The plan hasn't been finally approved.
the ˌ final so ˈ lution noun [ S ]
the Nazi plan to kill all the Jews of Europe, which caused the murder of six million
Jews between 1941 and 1945
finance noun
1. [ U ] (the management of) a supply of money
corporate/personal/public finance
the minister of finance/the finance minister
You need to speak to someone in the finance department .
The finance committee controls the school's budget.
2. finances
the money which a person or company has
We keep a tight control on the organization's finances.
UK INFORMAL My finances won't run to (= I do not have enough money to buy) a
new car this year.
finance verb [ T ]
to provide the money needed for something to happen
The local authority has refused to finance the scheme.
financial , adjective
relating to money or how money is managed
financial difficulties/success
a financial adviser
financial affairs
financially , adverb
The project is not financially viable (= will not produce enough money) .
He's still financially dependent on (= regularly receives money to live from) his
parents.
fi ˌ nancial ˈ year noun [ C ]
a period of twelve months (not always January to December) for which a
business, government, etc. plans its management of money
financier noun [ C ]
a person who has control of a large amount of money and can give or lend it to
people or organizations
finch noun [ C ]
any of various types of small singing bird with a short wide pointed beak
See also bullfinch ; chaffinch
finch noun [ C ]
find verb DISCOVER
1. [ T ] to discover, especially where a thing or person is, either unexpectedly or
by searching, or to discover where to get or how to achieve something
I've just found a ten-pound note in my pocket.
I couldn't find Andrew's telephone number.
You'll find the knives and forks in the left-hand drawer.
Researchers are hoping to find a cure for the disease.
[ + two objects ] Has he found himself a place to live yet?
[ + object + adjective ] She was found unconscious and bleeding.
[ + that ] The study found that men who were married lived longer than those
who were not.
Do you think they'll ever find a way of bringing peace to the region?
We're really struggling to find (= get) enough money to pay the rent at the
moment.
After years of abuse from her husband, she eventually found the courage to leave
him.
I wish I could find (the) time to do more reading.
2. [ T ] to realise that something exists or has happened
[ + ( that ) ] We came home to find (that) the cat had had kittens.
I found (that) I could easily swim a mile.
3. be found
to exist or be present somewhere
Many plant and animal species are found only in the rainforests.
Vitamin C is found in citrus fruit.
4. find your way
to get somewhere you are trying to reach
I had a map but I still couldn't find my way back to the hotel.
5. find fault with
to criticize someone or something
She's always finding fault with the way he works.
6. find yourself
a. to realise that you are in a particular situation or place, or doing a particular
thing, when you did not intend to
He'll find himself with no friends at all if he carries on behaving this way.
We fell asleep on the train and woke up to find ourselves in Calais.
b. OFTEN HUMOROUS If you go somewhere or do something to find yourself, you go
there or do it to discover your true character
Simon spent a year in an ashram in India to find himself.
find verb EXPERIENCE A FEELING
7. [ T ] to think or feel a particular way about someone or something
[ + object + noun or adjective ] Do you find Clive difficult to talk to?
I don't find him an easy person to get on with.
She doesn't find it easy to talk about her problems.
[ + -ing verb ] I find liv ing in the city quite stressful.
find verb JUDGE
8. [ I or T ] LEGAL to make a judgment in a law court
[ + object + adjective ] In a unanimous verdict, the jury found him guilty/not
guilty of the murder.
find your feet
to become familiar with and confident in a new situation
Did it take you long to find your feet when you started your new job?
find it in your heart to do sth
to be willing and able to do something unpleasant or difficult
Could you find it in your heart to forgive her?
find your tongue ( US ALSO find your voice )
to become willing to talk
Witnesses often find their tongues when they hear a reward has been offered.
find (sth) out phrasal verb [ M ]
to get information about something because you want to know more about it, or
to learn a fact or piece of information for the first time
How did you find out about the party?
The holiday was a complete surprise - I only found out about it the day before we
left.
[ + question word ] I'll just go and find out wh at's going on outside.
[ + that ] Too late, she found out that the train had been cancelled.
find sb out phrasal verb [ M usually passive ]
to discover that someone has done something wrong
He lived in dread of being found out.
find noun [ C ]
a good or valuable thing or a special person that has been discovered but was not
known about before
This café's quite a find - I had no idea there was anywhere like it around here.
A recent find of ancient artefacts is on display at the local museum.
finder noun [ C ]
someone who finds something
Finders keepers (losers weepers). SAYING
said by a child who has found an object to the child who has lost it, to show that
they intend to keep it
finch noun [ C ]
find verb DISCOVER
1. [ T ] to discover, especially where a thing or person is, either unexpectedly or
by searching, or to discover where to get or how to achieve something
I've just found a ten-pound note in my pocket.
I couldn't find Andrew's telephone number.
You'll find the knives and forks in the left-hand drawer.
Researchers are hoping to find a cure for the disease.
[ + two objects ] Has he found himself a place to live yet?
[ + object + adjective ] She was found unconscious and bleeding.
[ + that ] The study found that men who were married lived longer than those
who were not.
Do you think they'll ever find a way of bringing peace to the region?
We're really struggling to find (= get) enough money to pay the rent at the
moment.
After years of abuse from her husband, she eventually found the courage to leave
him.
I wish I could find (the) time to do more reading.
2. [ T ] to realise that something exists or has happened
[ + ( that ) ] We came home to find (that) the cat had had kittens.
I found (that) I could easily swim a mile.
3. be found
to exist or be present somewhere
Many plant and animal species are found only in the rainforests.
Vitamin C is found in citrus fruit.
4. find your way
to get somewhere you are trying to reach
I had a map but I still couldn't find my way back to the hotel.
5. find fault with
to criticize someone or something
She's always finding fault with the way he works.
6. find yourself
a. to realise that you are in a particular situation or place, or doing a particular
thing, when you did not intend to
He'll find himself with no friends at all if he carries on behaving this way.
We fell asleep on the train and woke up to find ourselves in Calais.
b. OFTEN HUMOROUS If you go somewhere or do something to find yourself, you go
there or do it to discover your true character
Simon spent a year in an ashram in India to find himself.
find verb EXPERIENCE A FEELING
7. [ T ] to think or feel a particular way about someone or something
[ + object + noun or adjective ] Do you find Clive difficult to talk to?
I don't find him an easy person to get on with.
She doesn't find it easy to talk about her problems.
[ + -ing verb ] I find liv ing in the city quite stressful.
find verb JUDGE
8. [ I or T ] LEGAL to make a judgment in a law court
[ + object + adjective ] In a unanimous verdict, the jury found him guilty/not
guilty of the murder.
find your feet
to become familiar with and confident in a new situation
Did it take you long to find your feet when you started your new job?
find it in your heart to do sth
to be willing and able to do something unpleasant or difficult
Could you find it in your heart to forgive her?
find your tongue ( US ALSO find your voice )
to become willing to talk
Witnesses often find their tongues when they hear a reward has been offered.
find (sth) out phrasal verb [ M ]
to get information about something because you want to know more about it, or
to learn a fact or piece of information for the first time
How did you find out about the party?
The holiday was a complete surprise - I only found out about it the day before we
left.
[ + question word ] I'll just go and find out wh at's going on outside.
[ + that ] Too late, she found out that the train had been cancelled.
find sb out phrasal verb [ M usually passive ]
to discover that someone has done something wrong
He lived in dread of being found out.
find noun [ C ]
a good or valuable thing or a special person that has been discovered but was not
known about before
This café's quite a find - I had no idea there was anywhere like it around here.
A recent find of ancient artefacts is on display at the local museum.
finder noun [ C ]
someone who finds something
Finders keepers (losers weepers). SAYING
said by a child who has found an object to the child who has lost it, to show that
they intend to keep it
fin-de-siècle adjective [ before noun ]
relating to the end of the 19th century, especially the art, culture and morals of
the period
The novel begins with an evocative description of fin-de-siècle Paris.
finding noun DISCOVERY
1. [ C ] a piece of information that is discovered during an official examination of
a problem, situation or object
The report's finding on the decrease in violent crime supports the police chief's
claims.
finding noun JUDGMENT
2. [ C usually singular ] a judgment made at the end of an official legal inquiry (=
a process to discover the answer to something)
fine adjective SATISFACTORY
1. [ after verb ] good or good enough; healthy and well
I felt terrible last night but I feel fine this morning.
The apartments are very small, which is fine for one person.
"Are you all right?" "Everything's just fine, thanks."
"I'll come round to your place at eight." "Fine. See you then."
fine adjective EXCELLENT
2. excellent or much better than average
purveyors of fine wines and gourmet food
The world's finest collection of Impressionist paintings is housed in the Musée
d'Orsay in Paris.
This building is the finest example of its type.
fine adjective THIN
3. very thin or in very small pieces or drops
The baby's head was covered in fine blond hair.
The eruption had covered the town with a fine layer of ash.
Apply a fine line of highlighter along the middle of your top lip.
She has inherited her mother's fine (= delicate and beautiful) features .
fine adjective EXACT
4. [ usually before noun ] very exact and delicate, or needing to be done, treated
or considered very carefully
I understood in general what she was talking about, but some of the finer
details/points were beyond me.
There's a fine line between love and hate.
fine adjective SUNNY
5. MAINLY UK sunny and dry
The weather forecast said it would be fine and dry today.
fine adjective BAD
6. INFORMAL bad or not convenient
That's a fine (= very unpleasant) thing to say about your father after all he's done
for you!
He picked a fine time to leave us.
have sth down to a fine art ( UK ALSO have sth off to a fine art )
to be able to do something very well or quickly, often because you have done it so
many times
not to put too fine a point on
to be completely direct and honest
I think she's wrong - not to put too fine a point on it.
fine noun [ C ]
an amount of money that has to be paid as a punishment for not obeying a rule or
law
The maximum penalty for the offence is a $1000 fine.
If found guilty, he faces six months in jail and a heavy (= severe) fine.
fine verb [ T ]
to charge someone an amount of money as a punishment for not obeying a rule
or law
Drivers who exceed the speed limit can expect to be fined heavily.
[ + two objects ] They fined him $100 for using threatening behaviour.
fine adverb
in a satisfactory way
"Will a loan of $500 be sufficient?" "That will suit me fine."
It was working fine yesterday.
ˌ fine ˈ art noun
1. [ U ] drawings, paintings and sculptures that are admired for their beauty and
have no practical use
2. fine arts
painting and sculpture
a fine arts degree
The fine arts have suffered from a lack of government funding.
finely adverb THINLY
1. into very thin or small pieces
Chop the herbs very finely.
Make sure the spices are finely ground.
finely adverb EXACTLY
2. to an exact degree
a finely-tuned engine
a finely-executed manoeuvre
finely adverb EXCELLENTLY
3. beautifully
The painting depicts a finely-dressed couple.
fineness noun [ U ] THIN QUALITY
1. the quality of being very thin
It's the fineness of the thread that makes the cloth so soft.
fineness noun [ U ] EXACTNESS
2. the quality of being very exact and delicate
When I look at her paintings I'm always struck by the fineness of the details.
ˌ fine ˈ print noun [ U ]
US FOR small print
finery noun [ U ]
beautiful clothing and jewellery worn on a special occasion
There we all were in our finery, waiting for the bride and groom to arrive.
fines herbes plural noun
a mixture of fresh or dried herbs that are used to flavour food
finesse noun [ U ]
great skill or style
It was a disappointing performance which lacked finesse.
finesse verb [ T ]
to deal with a situation or a person in a skilful and often slightly dishonest way
She finessed the interview by playing down her lack of experience and talking
about her long-standing interest in the field.
finest noun [ U ]
1. the best example of its type
This 100-year old restaurant is among London's finest.
2. US INFORMAL A city's finest is its police force
New York's finest
fine-tooth comb noun
with a fine-tooth comb
If you go through something with a fine-tooth comb, you examine it in great
detail and with great care
We have gone through the evidence with a fine-tooth comb.
fine-tooth comb noun

with a fine-tooth comb
If you go through something with a fine-tooth comb, you examine it in great
detail and with great care
We have gone through the evidence with a fine-tooth comb.
fine-tune verb [ T ]
to make very small changes to something in order to make it work as well as
possible
She spent hours fine-tuning her speech.
finger noun [ C ]
1. any of the long thin separate parts of the hand, especially those which are not
thumbs
He noticed her long delicate fingers.
I cut my finger chopping onions last night.
See also forefinger ; index finger ; ring finger ; little finger
2. a part of a glove (= hand covering) which covers a finger
be all fingers and thumbs UK ( US be all thumbs )
to move your hands in an awkward way
I'm all fingers and thumbs today. That's the second plate I've dropped this
morning.
cross your fingers ( ALSO keep your fingers crossed )
to hope that things will happen in the way that you want them to
It's her exam this morning so cross your fingers.
We're just hoping the weather stays nice and keeping our fingers crossed.
give sb the finger US
to show someone in an offensive way that you are angry with them by turning the
back of your hand towards them and putting your middle finger up
have a finger in every pie
to be involved in and have influence over many different activities, often in a way
that people do not approve of
have a finger in the pie
to be involved in something, often when your involvement is not wanted
have your fingers in the till UK
to steal money from the place where you work
not lift/raise a finger
to not make any effort to help
He never lifts a finger to help with the housework.
point the finger at sb
to accuse someone of being responsible for something bad that has happened
Unhappy tourists have pointed the finger at unhelpful travel agents.
pull/get your finger out UK INFORMAL
to start working hard, especially after a period of low activity
She's really going to have to pull her finger out if she wants to finish before
Friday.
put your finger on sth
to discover the exact reason why a situation is the way it is, especially when
something is wrong
There's something odd about him but I can't quite put my finger on it.
finger verb [ T ] TOUCH
1. to touch or feel something with your fingers
She fingered her necklace absent-mindedly as she talked.
finger verb [ T ] TELL THE POLICE
2. INFORMAL If you finger someone, you tell the police that they are guilty of a
crime.
fingerboard noun [ C ]
the long strip of wood on a stringed musical instrument against which the strings
are pressed by the fingers in order to change the note that is played
Guitars and banjos have fingerboards.
See picture music (other)
fingerboard noun [ C ]
the long strip of wood on a stringed musical instrument against which the strings
are pressed by the fingers in order to change the note that is played
Guitars and banjos have fingerboards.
ˈ finger ˌ bowl noun [ C ]
a small bowl filled with water that a person can use to wash their fingers during a
meal
ˈ finger ˌ buffet noun [ C ]
a meal, often on a special occasion, in which the food is eaten with the fingers,
often by guests who are standing
-fingered suffix
with or using the stated number of fingers
two-fingered typing
ˈ finger ˌ food noun [ U ]
food that you can eat without using knives, forks or spoons
fingering noun [ U ]
The fingering of a piece of music is the way that fingers are used to play particular
notes, or the numbers on a sheet of music that show which fingers should play which
notes.
fingermark noun [ C ] UK ( US USUALLY fingerprint )
a mark left by a dirty or oily finger on a clean surface
He'd left sticky fingermarks all over the glass.
fingernail noun [ C ] ( ALSO nail )
the hard slightly curved part that covers and protects the top of the end of a
finger
dirty fingernails
She had long red fingernails.
See pictures nail , hand 1
finger-pointing noun [ U ]
when someone is accused of doing something wrong
There's the usual finger-pointing when mistakes are made.
fingerprint noun [ C ]
1. ( INFORMAL print ) the pattern of curved lines on the end of a finger or thumb,
which is different in every person, or a mark left by this pattern
His fingerprints were all over the gun.
The police have taken fingerprints from every man in the neighbourhood.
2. a fingermark
fingerprint verb [ T ]
to record the pattern of someone's fingerprints
We would like to fingerprint every one of your employees.
fingerprint noun [ C ]
1. ( INFORMAL print ) the pattern of curved lines on the end of a finger or thumb,
which is different in every person, or a mark left by this pattern
His fingerprints were all over the gun.
The police have taken fingerprints from every man in the neighbourhood.
2. a fingermark
fingerprint verb [ T ]
to record the pattern of someone's fingerprints
We would like to fingerprint every one of your employees.
fingertip noun [ C ]
the end of a finger
Use your fingertips to gently flatten the pastry.
at your fingertips
If you have something at your fingertips, you can get it and use it very easily
He has all the latest statistics at his fingertips.
be an artist/professional, etc. to your fingertips UK
to be a perfect or typical example of something
Mark, a professional to his fingertips, insisted that we follow the correct
procedures.
finicky adjective
1. DISAPPROVING difficult to please
a finicky eater
He's terribly finicky about his food.
2. needing a lot of attention to detail
Repairing watches must be a very finicky job.
finish verb COMPLETE/END
1. [ I or T ] to complete something or come to the end of an activity
I'll call you when I've finished my homework.
Please place your questionnaire in the box when you've finished.
She finished (the concert) with a song from her first album.
She finished second (= in second place) in the finals.
[ + -ing verb ] Have you finished read ing that magazine?
They've already run out of money and the building isn't even half- finished (=
half of it has not been completed) .
2. [ I ] to end
The meeting should finish around four o'clock.
The play finishes with a song.
3. [ T ] to eat, drink or use something completely so that none remains
Make sure she finishes her dinner.
He finished his drink and left.
We finished (= ate all of) the pie last night.
finish verb WOOD
4. [ T ] If you finish something made of wood, you give it a last covering of paint,
polish or varnish so that it is ready to be used.
put the finishing touches to UK ( US put the finishing touches on )
to add the final improvements to something so that you are satisfied with it or
certain that it is complete
finish sth off phrasal verb [ M ] COMPLETE
1. to complete the last part of something that you are doing
I want to finish off this essay before I go to bed.
finish sth off phrasal verb [ M ] USE
2. to eat, drink or use the last part of something
We may as well finish off this pie - there's only a little bit left.
finish sb/sth off phrasal verb [ M ] KILL
1. INFORMAL to kill someone or something, especially if they have already been
injured
A third heart attack finally finished off the old man.
finish sb/sth off phrasal verb [ M ] DEFEAT
2. to defeat a person or team that you are competing against in a sports event
He could spar well enough but he couldn't seem to finish off his opponents.
finish sb off phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to make someone extremely tired, weak or unhappy
That game of football has really finished me off.
finish up phrasal verb [ I or L ] UK
If you finish up in a particular place or situation, that is the place or situation that
you are in finally
You'll finish up dead if you carry on drinking like that.
She married a Spaniard and finished up in Barcelona.
finish ( sth ) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to eat or drink all of what you are eating or drinking
Finish up your dinner and you can have dessert.
finish with sth phrasal verb
to stop using or needing something
Have you finished with that magazine?
finish with sb phrasal verb UK
to stop having a romantic relationship with someone
She finished with him when she discovered he was having an affair.
finish noun [ C ] COMPLETE/END
1. the end of a race, or the last part of something
a close finish
They replayed the finish in slow motion.
finish noun [ C ] WOOD
2. the condition of the surface of a material such as wood
Look at the lovely shiny finish on that piano.
3. the last covering of varnish, polish or paint, that is put onto something
Even a clear finish will alter the colour of wood slightly.
finished adjective
ended or final
How much does the finished product cost?
Are you finished with that drill?
When do you expect to be finished?
UK The rebels' ammunition is almost finished (= completely used) and it is only a
matter of time before they surrender.
This financial crisis means that the government's economic policy is finished (=
destroyed) .
finished adjective
ended or final
How much does the finished product cost?
Are you finished with that drill?
When do you expect to be finished?
UK The rebels' ammunition is almost finished (= completely used) and it is only a
matter of time before they surrender.
This financial crisis means that the government's economic policy is finished (=
destroyed) .
finisher noun [ C usually plural ]
a person or animal who finishes an athletic competiton
ˈ finishing ˌ school noun [ C ]
a school or college where young women from rich families learn how to behave in
high-class society
finite adjective LIMITED
1. having a limit or end
The funds available for the health service are finite and we cannot afford to waste
money.
We only have a finite amount of time to complete this task - we can't continue
indefinitely.
finite adjective GRAMMAR
2. in a form that shows the tense and subject of a verb, rather than the infinitive
form or a participle
In the following sentence 'go' is finite: "I often go to the cinema."
finito adjective [ after verb ] INFORMAL
finished
As far as I am concerned the relationship is over - finito.
fink noun [ C ] US INFORMAL
someone who tells secret and damaging information about someone else; an
unpleasant person
Kelly's such a fink - she told Mom I was smoking again.
fink verb
fink on sb phrasal verb US OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
to tell other people secret and damaging information about someone
fink out phrasal verb US SLANG
to fail to do something, especially something promised
We'd planned to go camping but at the last minute Ron finked out.
Finland noun [ U ]
Finland noun [ U ]
Finn noun [ C ]
Finnish adjective
1. from, belonging to or relating to Finland
Finnish adjective
2. See table of Geographical names .
Finnish noun [ U ]
the language of Finland
fiord noun [ C ]
a fjord
fir noun [ C ] ( ALSO ˈ fir ˌ tree )
a tall evergreen (= never losing its leaves) tree that grows in cold countries and
has leaves that are like needles
fire noun FLAMES
1. [ C or U ] (material that is in) the state of burning that produces flames which
send out heat and light, and might produce smoke
Animals are usually afraid of fire.
The fire was started by children playing with matches.
Forty people helped to put out (= stop) the fire.
The library was badly damaged in the fire.
How many historic buildings are damaged by fire each year?
She had to be rescued by her neighbours when her house UK caught / US
caught on fire (= started to burn unintentionally) .
2. [ C ] a small controlled fire that is used for heating or cooking
It's very cold in here - should I light a fire?
We built a fire on the beach.
We put up our tents and made a small fire.
3. on fire
If something is on fire, it is burning when it should not be
If your home was on fire and you could save only one thing, what would it be?
4. [ C ] UK a gas or electric heater that is used to warm up a room
a gas/electric fire
If you're cold just put the fire on.
fire noun SHOOT
5. [ U ] the shooting of guns or other weapons
The police opened fire on (= started shooting at) the protesters.
The command was given to cease fire (= stop shooting) .
The city came under fire from anti-government forces last night.
fire noun EMOTION
6. [ U ] strong emotion
The fire in her speech inspired everyone.
See also fiery
come under fire
to be criticized
The government has come under fire for its decision to close the mines.
fire and brimstone
used to mean the threat of Hell or damnation (= punishment which lasts forever)
after death
The preacher's sermon was full of fire and brimstone.
go through fire and water UK OLD-FASHIONED
to experience many difficulties or dangers in order to achieve something
hang/hold fire UK
to delay making a decision
Ideally we would settle the matter now, but I think we should hang fire until the
general situation becomes clearer.
play with fire
to act in a way that is very dangerous or risky
set sth/sb on fire
to cause something or someone to start burning
A peace campaigner had set herself on fire in protest at the government's
involvement in the war.
set fire to sth/sb MAINLY UK
Soldiers had chased the protesters into a warehouse and set fire to it.
fire verb SHOOT
1. [ I or T ] to cause a weapon to shoot bullets, arrows or missiles
He fired his gun into the air.
Someone started firing at us.
Without warning he started firing into the crowd.
I just prayed that he would stop firing.
The ambassador denied that any missiles had been fired across the border.
2. [ I or T ] to direct a series of questions or criticisms at someone
The journalists were firing questions at me for two whole hours.
"I'd like to ask you some questions about your childhood, if I may." "Fire away !
(= You can start asking them now) "
fire verb REMOVE FROM A JOB
3. [ T ] to remove someone from their job, either because they have done
something wrong or badly, or as a way of saving the cost of employing them
She was fired after she was caught stealing from her employer.
He was fired from his $165 000 job for poor performance.
She has just been fired as editor of the newspaper.
The company is reducing its workforce by firing 500 employees.
fire verb EXCITE
4. [ T ] to cause a strong emotion in someone
I had a brilliant English teacher who fired me with enthusiasm for literature at an
early age.
Talk of treasure and lost cities had fired their imaginations .
fire verb HEAT
5. [ T ] to heat objects made of clay in a kiln (= a special oven) so that they
become hard
be firing on all cylinders
to be operating as powerfully and effectively as possible
Dawson will be firing on all cylinders after 2 months of fitness training.
in the firing line ( ALSO in the line of fire , US ALSO on the firing line )
likely to be criticized, attacked or got rid of
He found himself in the firing line for his sexist remarks.
fire sth off phrasal verb [ M ] SHOT
1. to fire a shot from a gun
They fired off several shots to frighten us.
fire sth off phrasal verb [ M ] LETTER
2. to write and send an angry letter to someone
He fired off an angry letter to the editor.
fire sb up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make someone become excited or angry
We had an argument about it and she got all fired up.
ˈ fire a ˌ larm noun [ C ]
(the switch connected to) a device such as a bell or siren that warns the people in
a building that the building is on fire
If the fire alarm goes off (= starts making a sound) , leave the building calmly.
finite adjective LIMITED

1. having a limit or end
The funds available for the health service are finite and we cannot afford to waste
money.
We only have a finite amount of time to complete this task - we can't continue
indefinitely.
finite adjective GRAMMAR
2. in a form that shows the tense and subject of a verb, rather than the infinitive
form or a participle
In the following sentence 'go' is finite: "I often go to the cinema."
finito adjective [ after verb ] INFORMAL
finished
As far as I am concerned the relationship is over - finito.
fink noun [ C ] US INFORMAL
someone who tells secret and damaging information about someone else; an
unpleasant person
Kelly's such a fink - she told Mom I was smoking again.
fink verb
fink on sb phrasal verb US OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
to tell other people secret and damaging information about someone
fink out phrasal verb US SLANG
to fail to do something, especially something promised
We'd planned to go camping but at the last minute Ron finked out.
Finland noun [ U ]
Finn noun [ C ]
Finnish adjective
1. from, belonging to or relating to Finland
Finnish adjective
2. See table of Geographical names .
Finnish noun [ U ]
the language of Finland
fiord noun [ C ]
a fjord
fir noun [ C ] ( ALSO ˈ fir ˌ tree )
a tall evergreen (= never losing its leaves) tree that grows in cold countries and
has leaves that are like needles
fire noun FLAMES
1. [ C or U ] (material that is in) the state of burning that produces flames which
send out heat and light, and might produce smoke
Animals are usually afraid of fire.
The fire was started by children playing with matches.
Forty people helped to put out (= stop) the fire.
The library was badly damaged in the fire.
How many historic buildings are damaged by fire each year?
She had to be rescued by her neighbours when her house UK caught / US
caught on fire (= started to burn unintentionally) .
2. [ C ] a small controlled fire that is used for heating or cooking
It's very cold in here - should I light a fire?
We built a fire on the beach.
We put up our tents and made a small fire.
3. on fire
If something is on fire, it is burning when it should not be
If your home was on fire and you could save only one thing, what would it be?
4. [ C ] UK a gas or electric heater that is used to warm up a room
a gas/electric fire
If you're cold just put the fire on.
fire noun SHOOT
5. [ U ] the shooting of guns or other weapons
The police opened fire on (= started shooting at) the protesters.
The command was given to cease fire (= stop shooting) .
The city came under fire from anti-government forces last night.
fire noun EMOTION
6. [ U ] strong emotion
The fire in her speech inspired everyone.
See also fiery
come under fire
to be criticized
The government has come under fire for its decision to close the mines.
fire and brimstone
used to mean the threat of Hell or damnation (= punishment which lasts forever)
after death
The preacher's sermon was full of fire and brimstone.
go through fire and water UK OLD-FASHIONED
to experience many difficulties or dangers in order to achieve something
hang/hold fire UK
to delay making a decision
Ideally we would settle the matter now, but I think we should hang fire until the
general situation becomes clearer.
play with fire
to act in a way that is very dangerous or risky
set sth/sb on fire
A peace campaigner had set herself on fire in protest at the government's
involvement in the war.
set fire to sth/sb MAINLY UK
Soldiers had chased the protesters into a warehouse and set fire to it.
fire verb SHOOT
1. [ I or T ] to cause a weapon to shoot bullets, arrows or missiles
He fired his gun into the air.
Someone started firing at us.
Without warning he started firing into the crowd.
I just prayed that he would stop firing.
The ambassador denied that any missiles had been fired across the border.
2. [ I or T ] to direct a series of questions or criticisms at someone
The journalists were firing questions at me for two whole hours.
"I'd like to ask you some questions about your childhood, if I may." "Fire away !
(= You can start asking them now) "
fire verb REMOVE FROM A JOB
3. [ T ] to remove someone from their job, either because they have done
something wrong or badly, or as a way of saving the cost of employing them
She was fired after she was caught stealing from her employer.
He was fired from his $165 000 job for poor performance.
She has just been fired as editor of the newspaper.
The company is reducing its workforce by firing 500 employees.
fire verb EXCITE
4. [ T ] to cause a strong emotion in someone
I had a brilliant English teacher who fired me with enthusiasm for literature at an
early age.
Talk of treasure and lost cities had fired their imaginations .
fire verb HEAT
5. [ T ] to heat objects made of clay in a kiln (= a special oven) so that they
become hard
be firing on all cylinders
to be operating as powerfully and effectively as possible
Dawson will be firing on all cylinders after 2 months of fitness training.
in the firing line ( ALSO in the line of fire , US ALSO on the firing line )
likely to be criticized, attacked or got rid of
He found himself in the firing line for his sexist remarks.
fire sth off phrasal verb [ M ] SHOT
1. to fire a shot from a gun
They fired off several shots to frighten us.
fire sth off phrasal verb [ M ] LETTER
2. to write and send an angry letter to someone
He fired off an angry letter to the editor.
fire sb up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make someone become excited or angry
We had an argument about it and she got all fired up.
ˈ fire a ˌ larm noun [ C ]
(the switch connected to) a device such as a bell or siren that warns the people in
a building that the building is on fire
If the fire alarm goes off (= starts making a sound) , leave the building calmly.
firearm noun [ C ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
a gun that can be carried easily
He was found guilty of possessing an unlicensed firearm.
fireball noun [ C ]
a large ball of fire, especially one caused by a very powerful explosion
Witnesses reported seeing a huge orange fireball as the oil refinery exploded.
ˈ fire ˌ blanket noun [ C ]
a type of cover made of a material which does not burn very easily, which you
throw over a fire to put it out or stop it from spreading
firebomb noun [ C ]
a bomb that causes destruction by starting a fire rather than exploding
Rioters armed with firebombs set light to police barricades.
firebomb verb [ T ]
to damage a place with a firebomb
Animal rights extremists have threatened to firebomb any department stores that
continue to stock fur coats.
firebrand noun [ C ]
a person who causes political or social trouble by opposing authority and
encouraging others to do so
firebreak noun [ C ] ( AUSTRALIAN ALSO firetrail )
a strip of land in a wood or forest from which the trees have been removed to
prevent a fire from spreading
firebrick noun [ C ] UK
a brick that is not damaged by high temperatures and is therefore used when
building things, such as chimneys and fireplaces, that will reach high temperatures
ˈ fire ˌ brigade noun [ C usually singular ] UK ( US fire department )
an organization that is in charge of preventing and stopping unwanted fires
firecracker noun [ C ]
a firework that makes a loud noise when it explodes
-fired suffix
using the stated type of fuel
Gas -fired power stations are expected to produce cheaper electricity than coal -
fired ones.
ˈ fire ˌ door noun [ C ]
a door made of material that cannot burn which is used to prevent a fire from
spreading within a building
ˈ fire ˌ drill noun [ C ]
(the practising of) the set of actions that should be performed in order to leave a
building such as an office, factory or school safely when it is on fire
fire-eater noun [ C ]
a performer who entertains people by seeming to swallow the flames on sticks
that are burning at one end
ˈ fire ˌ engine noun [ C ] ( US ALSO fire truck )
fire engine
a large vehicle that carries firefighters and their equipment to a fire
ˈ fire es ˌ cape noun [ C ]
a set of metal stairs, especially on the outside of a building, which allows people
to escape from a burning building
ˈ fire ex ˌ tinguisher noun [ C ]
fire extinguisher
a device which contains water or a special gas, powder or foam (= a mass of
small bubbles) that is put onto a fire to stop it burning
firefight noun [ C ]
a fight, often unexpected, between opposing groups of soldiers in which they
shoot at each other
The opposing units opened fire simultaneously at close range and a 15-minute
firefight ensued.
firefight verb [ I ]
to spend time on problems that need to be dealt with quickly, instead of working
in a calm, planned way
Will the new manager be able to do anything other than firefight?
firefighter , noun [ C ]
a person whose job is to stop fires from burning
firefighting noun [ U ] BURNING
1. the activity of stopping fires burning
firefighting noun [ U ] PROBLEMS
2. spending time on problems that need to be dealt with quickly, instead of
working in a calm, planned way
I spend all my time firefighting rather than making any progress.
firefly noun [ C ]
an insect which is active during the night and whose tail shines on and off in the
dark
fireguard noun [ C ] ( US ALSO firescreen )
a metal frame that is put in front of a fireplace to prevent burning wood or coal
from falling onto the floor, or to prevent children or pets from burning themselves
ˈ fire ˌ hydrant noun [ C ] ( US ALSO fire plug )
a large pipe in the street that firefighters can get water from to use to stop fires
burning
firelight noun [ U ]
the light produced by a fire, especially one in a fireplace
firelighter noun [ C ] ( US USUALLY fire starter )
(a small block of) material which burns very easily and is used for helping to start
wood or coal fires
fireman noun [ C ]
a man whose job is to stop fires from burning
fireplace noun [ C ]
a space in the wall of a room for a fire to burn in, or the decorated part which
surrounds this space
She swept the ashes from the fireplace.
ˈ fire ˌ plug noun [ C ]
US INFORMAL FOR fire hydrant
firepower noun [ U ]
the number and size of guns that a military group has available
Although badly out-numbered by the enemy, we had vastly superior firepower.
fireproof adjective
unable to be damaged by fire
She keeps all her important papers in a fireproof safe.
fire-raising noun [ U ]
UK FOR arson
fire-raiser noun [ C ]
UK FOR arsonist
firescreen noun [ C ]
US FOR fireguard
fireside noun [ C usually singular ]
the part of a room which surrounds a fireplace
She sat reading by the fireside.
ˈ fire ˌ station noun [ C ] ( US ALSO fire house )
a building where fire engines are kept and where firefighters work and stay in the
hours they are working
firestorm noun [ C ]
a very large uncontrollable fire, sometimes caused by heavy bombing from
aircraft
firetrail noun [ C ]
AUSTRALIAN FOR firebreak
firetrap noun [ C ]
(a part of) a building that would burn easily if a fire started by accident or would
be difficult to escape from during a fire
ˈ fire ˌ truck noun [ C ]
US FOR fire engine
firewall noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a device or program that stops people getting access to a computer without
permission while it is connected to the Internet
firewater noun [ U ] INFORMAL HUMOROUS
a very strong alcoholic drink, especially whisky
firewood noun [ U ]
wood used as fuel for a fire
We can use those old shelves as firewood.
firework noun EXPLOSIVE
firework
1. [ C ] a small container filled with explosive chemicals which produce bright
coloured patterns or loud noises when they explode
a firework display
When it gets dark we'll UK let off / US set off (= light) the fireworks.
What time do the fireworks start?
firework noun SHOUTING
2. fireworks
INFORMAL HUMOROUS a lot of angry shouting
I have to go home now - there'll be fireworks if I'm late!
firing noun [ C ] MAINLY US
an act of removing someone from their job
hirings and firings
ˈ firing ˌ squad noun [ C ]
a group of soldiers who are ordered to shoot and kill a prisoner
firm adjective HARD
1. not soft but not completely hard
I'd rather sleep on a firm mattress than a soft one.
These pears are still too firm to eat.
firm adjective FIXED
2. well fixed in place or position
The bridge provided a firm platform for the bungee jumpers.
3. fixed at the same level or opinion and not changing
The government remains firm in its opposition to tax reform.
firm adjective STRONG
4. strong and tight
a firm handshake
Keep a firm hold of the handrail as you go down.
FIGURATIVE No one seems to have a firm grip on the company at the moment.
FIGURATIVE You need a firm grasp of mathematics to become an astronaut.
firm adjective CERTAIN
5. certain and not likely to change; definite
He is a firm believer in traditional family values.
Some people still claim that there is no firm evidence linking smoking with lung
cancer.
firm adjective FORCEFUL
6. forceful and making people do what you want
I was always very firm with my children - they knew the rules and I made sure
they kept to them.
a firm hand
strong control
Reforming these young offenders will require a firm hand.
hold/stand firm
to remain in the same place or at the same level
The protesters stood firm as the police tried to disperse them.
The pound held firm against the Deutschmark today.
firm noun [ C ]
a company or business
He works for a law firm called Neil and Vigliano.
He's just started working for an accountancy firm/a firm of accountants in
Cambridge.
firm verb MAKE HARD
1. [ T ] to make soil harder by pressing on it
Firm the soil around the cuttings and water them in.
firm verb STOP CHANGING
2. [ I ] SPECIALIZED to stop changing or to remain at the same level, amount, etc
After a turbulent week on the markets, share prices firmed today.
firm sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make something more definite or less likely to change
Could we have a meeting so we can firm up the details of our agreement?
firm (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make a part of your body have less fat and more muscle by doing exercise
Cycling is one of the best ways to firm up your thighs.
My stomach has begun to firm up since I started exercising.
the firmament noun [ S ] LITERARY
the sky
FIGURATIVE She is one of the rising stars in the political firmament.
firmly adverb NOT LOOSELY
1. strongly, in a way that will not become loose
Make sure the rope is firmly attached before attempting to climb down it.
firmly adverb STRONGLY
2. strongly and tightly
He shook my hand firmly and climbed into the taxi.
firmly adverb FORCEFULLY
3. forcefully
"You're not going to the party and that's that!" she said firmly.
firmly adverb CERTAINLY
4. in a way that is certain or definite
We are firmly committed to reducing unemployment.
firmness noun [ U ] HARDNESS
1. the quality of not being soft, but not completely hard
The bed's firmness suited him.
firmness noun [ U ] STRENGTH/TIGHTNESS
2. the quality of being strong and tight
The firmness of his handshake reassured me.
firmness noun [ U ] FORCEFUL QUALITY
3. the quality of being forceful and making people do what you want
The new teacher has a reputation for firmness.
firmness noun [ U ] CERTAINTY
4. when something is certain and not likely to change
firmware noun [ U ]
a set of instructions which form part of an electronic device and which allow it to
communicate with a computer or with other electronic devices
first ordinal number , determiner
1. (a person or thing) coming before all others in order, time, amount, quality or
importance
This is my first visit to New York.
I fell in love with him the first time I saw him.
I'm always nervous for the first few minutes of an exam.
2. in the first place
in or at the beginning (of a series of events)
The trousers shrank when I washed them, but they weren't really big enough in
the first place.
Thankfully, he wasn't hurt, but he never should have been there in the first place.
3. in the first instance UK
as the first attempt or effort
Enquiries about the post should be addressed in the first instance to the personnel
manager.
4. first thing
at the earliest time in the day
He said he'd phone back first thing tomorrow.
be in the first flush of
to be at the start of something
He's no longer in the first flush of youth .
first things first
used to tell someone that more important things should be done before less
important things
First things first, let's have something to eat.
first adverb
1. before all others in order, time, amount, quality or importance
Tom came first in the race.
Who finished first?
If you get home first, can you put the kettle on?
2. for the first time
When did you first meet each other?
The company was still very small when I first joined.
3. used at the beginning of a list of things you want to say or write; firstly
First, I want to thank my parents.
First (of all) ( UK ALSO First off ) (= Before anything else) , I'd like to ask you a
few questions about your childhood.
at first
in or at the beginning
At first I thought he was joking but then I realized he meant it.
first among equals UK
a member of a group who is officially on the same level as the other members but
who in fact has slightly more responsibility or power
The British Prime Minister is first among equals in the Cabinet.
first and foremost
more than anything else
In spite of being elected to office, she remains first and foremost a writer.
first and last
as the most important fact
Don was, first and last, a good friend.
first come, first served
used to mean that people will receive something or be dealt with in the order in
which they ask or arrive
first noun THING OR PERSON
1. [ S ] the first person or thing to do or be something, or the first person or thing
mentioned
[ + to infinitive ] She was one of the first to arrive.
He is the first (= very willing) to admit that much of his success is due to his
good looks.
Tonight sees the first of three documentaries about cancer.
2. from the (very) first
from the beginning
I've opposed the proposal from the very first.
first noun NEVER BEFORE
3. [ S ] something that has never happened or been done before
This new surgical technique is a first for (= has never been done before in)
Britain.
first noun QUALIFICATION
4. [ C ] ( ALSO first class degree ) UK the best possible degree qualification you can
get from a British university
She has a first in English from Newcastle University.
first noun VEHICLE
5. [ U ] ( ALSO first gear ) (in a vehicle) the gear used when starting to drive
forward or when driving up a steep hill
ˌ first ˈ aid noun [ U ]
basic medical treatment which is given to someone as soon as possible after they
have been hurt in an accident or suddenly become ill
Did you learn any first aid at school?
first-aid equipment
first-aider noun [ C ] UK
someone who is qualified to give first aid
How many first-aiders are there in your office?
ˌ first ˈ base noun [ C usually singular ]
in baseball, the first of four places you must run to after hitting the ball and
before scoring a point, or the position of a player defending this place
Mattingley played first base for the Yankees.
get to first base US INFORMAL HUMOROUS
to kiss someone in a sexual way
get to/reach first base US INFORMAL
to have the first achievement or agreement which is needed for later success
The proposal is so poorly designed, they won't even get to first base with the
directors.
first-born (child) noun [ C usually singular ]
the first child of a set of parents
Olaf is my first-born.
ˌ first ˈ class adjective , adverb TRAVEL
1. relating to the highest quality service on a plane, train, or in a hotel
a first-class ticket
first-class accommodation/travel
She always travels first class.
ˌ first ˈ class adjective , adverb POST
2. relating to the fastest service for sending post
first-class mail/postage
How much is a first-class stamp?
How much more would it cost to send it first class?
ˌ first ˈ class adjective EXCELLENT
1. excellent
She's made a first-class job of decorating the living room.
ˌ first ˈ class adjective QUALIFICATION
2. A first class degree is the best possible degree qualification you can get from a
British university.
ˌ first ˈ class noun [ U ] TRAIN/PLANE SEATS
1. the best and most expensive seats on a plane or in a train
Because of the delay, we were offered seats in first class.
ˌ first ˈ class noun [ U ] POST SERVICE
2. a post service that delivers letters, etc. quickly
ˌ first ˈ cousin noun [ C ]
a child of your aunt or uncle
first-degree burn noun [ C ]
the least serious type of burn that needs medical treatment
Compare second-degree burn ; third-degree burn
first-degree murder noun [ C ] US
the most serious type of murder
the ˌ First ˈ Fleet noun [ S + sing/pl verb ] AUSTRALIAN
the ships that brought the first Europeans to Australia
ˌ first ˈ fleeter noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
someone who is related to a person who travelled in the First Fleet
the ˌ first ˈ floor noun [ S ]
in British English, the floor of a building that is directly above ground level, or in
American English, the floor at ground level
She works on the first floor.
first-floor adjective [ before noun ]
a first-floor flat/apartment/office
ˈ first ˌ fruit noun [ C usually plural ] MAINLY UK
the first result of someone's effort or work
These improvements in quality are the first fruits of our investment.
first-hand , firsthand adverb
If you experience something first-hand, you experience it yourself
Most of the older reporters have experienced war first-hand.
first-hand adjective [ before noun ]
Most of us have first-hand experience of teaching.
ˌ first ˈ lady noun [ C ]
a woman whose husband is the political leader of a country or a part of a country
ˌ first ˈ language noun [ C ]
the language that someone learns to speak first
ˌ first ˈ light noun [ U ]
the time when the sun first appears in the morning
We'll leave at first light.
firstly adverb ( ALSO first )
used to refer to the first thing in a list
There are two very good reasons why we can't do it. Firstly, we don't have
enough money, and secondly, we don't have enough time.
ˌ first ˈ mate noun [ C ]
the second most important officer on a ship which is not part of the navy
ˈ first ˌ name noun [ C ]
1. the name that was given to you when you were born and that comes before
your family name
It can be rude to call someone by their first name if they are much older or more
important than you.
2. on first-name terms UK ( US on a first-name basis )
friendly or familiar enough with someone to call them by their first name
ˌ first ˈ night noun [ C ] UK ( US opening night )
the first public performance of a play
ˌ first of ˈ fender noun [ C ]
someone who has been officially judged to be guilty of a crime for the first time
ˌ first ˈ officer noun [ C ]
first mate
first-past-the-post adjective UK
using a voting system in which a person is elected because they get more votes
than anyone else in the area that they want to represent, whether or not their political
party gets more votes than any other party in the whole of the country
the ˌ first ˈ person noun [ S ]
the form of a verb or pronoun that is used when people are speaking or writing
about themselves
Autobiographies are written in the first person.
'I' and 'we' are first-person pronouns.
ˌ first ˈ principles plural noun UK
the basic and most important reasons for doing or believing something
We seem to have forgotten why we're fighting this campaign - we really need to
return to first principles.
first-rate adjective
extremely good
a first-rate restaurant
ˌ first re ˈ fusal noun [ U ]
the opportunity to buy something before it is offered to anyone else
My sister's selling her car and she's offered me first refusal on it.
ˌ first ˈ strike noun [ C ]
in a nuclear war, an attack intended to destroy the enemy's ability to fire before
they have had an opportunity to do so
first-time buyer noun [ C ] UK
someone who is buying their own house or apartment for the first time, especially
by borrowing money from a bank or similar organization
the ˌ First ˌ World ˈ War noun [ S ]
World War One
firth noun [ C ] SCOTTISH
a long strip of sea reaching into the land
the Firth of Forth
fiscal adjective SPECIALIZED
connected with (public) money
fiscal policy
fiscally adverb
The proposal is fiscally sound.
ˈ fiscal ˌ year noun [ C ]
financial year
fish noun
fish
1. [ C or U ] an animal which lives in water, is covered with scales , and which
breathes by taking water in through its mouth, or the flesh of these animals eaten as
food
Several large fish live in the pond.
Sanjay caught the biggest fish I've ever seen.
I don't like fish (= don't like to eat fish) .
2. an odd/queer fish
MAINLY UK OLD-FASHIONED a strange person
be a big fish in a small pond
to have a lot of influence only over a small area
be like a fish out of water
to feel awkward because you are in an situation which you have not experienced
before or because you are very different from the people around you
be neither fish nor fowl
like one thing in some ways and like another thing in other ways
have bigger/other fish to fry INFORMAL
to have something more important to do
There are plenty more fish in the sea.
used to say that there are many other people or possibilities, especially when one
person or thing has been unsuitable or unsuccessful
Don't cry over Pierre - there are plenty more fish in the sea!
fish verb SEARCH
1. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to search, especially in difficult conditions
She fished in her tool box for the right spanner.
The director was fishing for information about our strategy.
He's always fishing for compliments (= trying to make people say good things
about him) .
fish verb ANIMAL
2. [ I or T ] to catch fish from a river, sea, lake, etc., or to try to do this
They're fishing for tuna.
The sea here has been fished intensely over the last ten years.
3. fished out
If an area of water has been fished out, all or most of the fish in it have been
caught.
a fishing expedition MAINLY US
an attempt to discover the facts about something by collecting a lot of
information, often secretly
The investigators' request for the company's accounts is simply a fishing
expedition - they have no real evidence of wrongdoing.
fish in troubled waters UK
to try to win an advantage from a difficult situation or from someone else's
problems
fish or cut bait US INFORMAL
used to tell someone to take action or to stop saying that they will
He's been promising voters that he'll support gun control, now it's time to fish or
cut bait.
fish sth out phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to pull something out of water or take something out of a bag or pocket
Police fished a body out of the river this morning.
He fished out a coin from his pocket.
ˌ fish and ˈ chips noun [ U ]
fish covered with batter (= a mixture of flour, eggs and milk) and then fried and
served with pieces of fried potato
fishbowl noun [ C ]
US FOR goldfish bowl
fishcake noun [ C ]
a mixture of fish and potato which has been formed into small flat round shapes,
covered with breadcrumbs and then cooked in oil
fisherman noun [ C ]
someone who catches fish, especially as their job
fishery noun [ C ]
an area of water where fish are caught so they can be sold
an offshore fishery
fish-eye lens noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a camera lens which curves out from the camera and gives a view of an extremely
wide area, with the central objects appearing closer than those at the edge
ˈ fish ˌ farm noun [ C ]
a apecial area of water used for breeding and growing fish
fish finger noun [ C ] UK AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH ( US fish stick )
a rectangular piece of fish covered in breadcrumbs and cooked
fishing noun [ U ]
the sport or job of catching fish
My dad loves to go fishing.
a fishing UK rod/ US pole
salmon/trout fishing
fishing tackle (= equipment used for catching fish)
Fishing is still their main source of income.
ˈ fishing ˌ line noun [ C or U ]
strong plastic string used with a fishing rod to catch fish
See picture line
ˈ fish ˌ kettle noun [ C ]
a large metal pan for cooking fish
ˈ fish ˌ knife noun [ C ]
a knife for eating fish, with a wide blade and a round edge
fishmonger noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
someone who sells fish, especially from a shop
fishmonger's , fishmongers noun [ C ] UK
a shop which sells fish
I'll stop at the fishmonger's on my way home from work.
fishnet noun [ U ]
a type of material which looks like net
She was wearing black fishnet stockings .
ˈ fish ˌ oil noun [ C or U ]
oil from fish such as tuna or salmon , which is good for your health
ˈ fish ˌ slice noun [ C ] MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY spatula )
a kitchen tool which has a wide flat blade with long holes in it, used for lifting and
turning food while cooking
ˈ fish ˌ tank noun [ C ]
a glass container used for keeping fish in, especially pet tropical fish
fishwife noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
a loud, unpleasant woman
fishy adjective DISHONEST
1. INFORMAL seeming dishonest or false
There's something fishy going on here.
fishy adjective LIKE FISH
2. tasting or smelling of fish
smell fishy INFORMAL
If a situation or an explanation smells fishy, it causes you to think that someone
is being dishonest.
fissile adjective SPECIALIZED
1. (of rock) capable of being divided easily into pieces
Because of its layered structure, mica is fissile.
2. (of atoms) capable of nuclear fission
An amount of fissile material went missing as a result of the accident.
fission noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the splitting of the nucleus of an atom, which results in the release of a large
amount of energy, or the division of a living cell as part of reproduction
nuclear fission
The fission of the cell could be inhibited with certain chemicals.
fissure noun [ C ]
a deep narrow crack in rock or the earth
fist noun [ C ]
fist
a hand with the fingers and thumb held tightly in
She clenched her fists.
Protestors were shaking their fists at the soldiers.
fist-fight noun [ C ]
a fight between people using their hands but no weapons
fistful noun [ C ]
1. an amount of something that you can hold in your fist
He held out a fistful of crumpled notes.
2. INFORMAL a large collection or number
He has a fistful of acting awards.
fisticuffs plural noun OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS
fighting in which people hit each other with their fists
fit verb CORRECT SIZE
1. [ I or T ] to be the right size or shape for someone or something
That jacket fits you perfectly.
The dress fits like a glove (= very well) .
Our new sofa doesn't fit through the door.
I don't think another desk will fit into this classroom.
My car's too big to fit in this space.
fit verb BE SUITABLE
2. [ T ] to be suitable for something
With her qualifications, she should fit the job perfectly.
Let the punishment fit the crime.
I'm sure we'll have something to fit your requirements, Madam.
fit verb PUT IN POSITION
3. [ T ] to provide something and put it in the correct position
All the carpets we sell are fitted free.
She's been fitted with an artificial leg.
fit verb ILLNESS
4. [ I ] UK SPECIALIZED to have a fit (= sudden attack of uncontrolled movements)
fit the bill
to be suitable for a particular purpose
This new software certainly fits the bill.
fit to burst OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
If someone is fit to burst with an emotion or a feeling, it is very strong within
them
The children were fit to burst with excitement.
fit to drop MAINLY UK
extremely tired
After the run they were fit to drop.
If the cap fits, (wear it). UK SAYING ( US If the shoe fits, (wear it). )
said to tell someone that if they are guilty of bad behaviour, they should accept
criticism
fit in phrasal verb
1. to feel that you belong to a particular group and are accepted by them
It's no surprise she's leaving - she never really fitted in.
2. If one thing fits in with another thing, they look pleasant together or are
suitable for each other
It's a very nice sofa but it doesn't fit in with the rest of the room.
fit sb/sth in phrasal verb [ M ]
to find time to do or deal with something or someone
Dr Jones is very busy but I'm sure she'll be able to fit you in tomorrow.
fit in with sth phrasal verb
If one activity or event fits in with another, they exist or happen together in a way
that is convenient.
fit sth out phrasal verb [ M usually passive ]
to supply someone or something with all of the things which will be needed
The ship will be in dock for eight months to be fitted out for its new duties.
fit sth up phrasal verb [ M ] UK
to put furniture in a room or building
We've fitted up the spare room as a nursery.
fit sb up phrasal verb [ M ] UK SLANG
to make someone appear guilty
Of course she didn't do it - someone fitted her up.
fit adjective HEALTHY
1. healthy and strong, especially as a result of exercise
I jog to keep fit.
You need to be very fit to hike the Inca Trail.
Opposite unfit
fit adjective SUITABLE
2. suitable for a particular purpose or activity
She's not fit for the level of responsibility she's been given.
Opposite unfit
3. be in no fit state to do sth
to not be able to do something because you are upset, ill, drunk, etc
He's very upset and is in no fit state to drive.
4. fit for human consumption
safe for people to eat
5. (not) fit for purpose
Something that is fit for purpose does what it is supposed to do, but does not
have a lot of extra features.
6. see/think sth fit
to consider an action or decision to be correct for the situation
Just do whatever you think fit - I'm sure you'll make the right decision.
Spend the money as you see fit.
fit adjective ATTRACTIVE
7. UK SLANG sexually attractive
I met this really fit bloke in the pub last night.
be (as) fit as a fiddle ( UK ALSO be (as) fit as a flea )
to be very healthy and strong
My grandmother's 89, but she's as fit as a fiddle.
fit to be tied US INFORMAL
extremely angry
fit noun ILLNESS
1. [ C ] a sudden attack of illness when someone cannot control their movements
and becomes unconscious
an epileptic fit
He had a fit at work and collapsed.
fit noun SHORT PERIOD
2. [ C ] a sudden, uncontrolled period of doing something or feeling something
a coughing/sneezing fit
She hit him in a fit of anger.
fit noun CORRECT SIZE
3. [ S ] the way that something fits
These shoes are a perfect fit.
The trousers were a good fit but the jacket was too small.
Check the fit of the pieces before gluing them in place.
have/throw a fit INFORMAL
to become very angry or worried, often shouting a lot
She'll throw a fit when she sees the mess you've made.
in fits (of laughter) UK INFORMAL
laughing a lot
His stories had them in fits of laughter.
in/by fits and starts
If something happens in fits and starts, it often stops and then starts again
Replies to the advertisement are arriving in fits and starts.
fitful adjective
often stopping and starting and not happening in a regular or continuous way
fitful breathing
a fitful sleep
fitfully adverb
She slept fitfully (= only for short, irregular periods) throughout the night and
arose before dawn.
fitment noun [ C usually plural ] MAINLY UK
a piece of furniture or equipment made especially for a particular room or space
kitchen/bathroom fitments
fitness noun [ U ] HEALTH
1. the condition of being physically strong and healthy
I'm trying to improve my fitness by cycling to work.
fitness noun [ U ] SUITABLE QUALITY
2. suitability
His fitness for the new position is not in question.
[ + to infinitive ] Many people are concerned about her fitness to govern.
ˈ fitness ˌ centre noun [ C ]
a place where you go to exercise, for example by lifting weights or using other
equipment
fitted adjective [ before noun ] MADE TO FIT
1. made to fit the shape of someone or something
a fitted jacket/shirt
fitted sheets
fitted adjective [ before noun ] FIXED
2. MAINLY UK permanently fixed in position
a fitted wardrobe/cupboard
We're having a new fitted kitchen put in.
ˌ fitted ˈ carpet noun [ C or U ] ( US wall-to-wall carpet ) UK
carpet which is cut to cover the whole floor in a room
fitter noun [ C ]
1. someone whose job is to repair or put together equipment or machines
an engine fitter
a gas fitter
2. someone whose job is to cut and fit especially clothes or carpets
a carpet fitter
fitting adjective FORMAL
suitable or right for a particular situation or occasion
a fitting tribute
[ + that ] It is fitting that we should remember those who died.
fitting noun CLOTHES
1. [ C ] an occasion when someone who is having clothes made for them puts on
the clothes before they are finished to make certain they will fit
I'm having the final fitting of my wedding dress on Thursday.
fitting noun SMALL PART
2. [ C usually plural ] a small part or thing
plumbing fittings
electric light fittings
Compare fixture
fitting noun IN A HOUSE
3. [ C usually plural ] UK ( US furnishing ) a piece of furniture, such as a cooker,
washing machine or curtain pole, which is not permanently fixed in or part of the
structure of a house and which a person might be expected to take with them when
they move to a new home
The house price, including fixtures and fittings, is £200 000.
ˈ fitting ˌ room noun [ C ]
a room or area in a shop where you can put on clothes to check that they fit
before you buy them
five number
the number 5
Five, four, three, two, one, blast-off!
I work five days a week.
Gimme five! MAINLY US INFORMAL
something you say when you want someone to open one of their hands so you
can hit it with your open hand in greeting or celebration
give sb (a) five INFORMAL
to hit someone's open hand with your own to celebrate doing something well or
achieving something, especially in sports
take five US INFORMAL
used to tell someone to stop working and relax for a short period of time
five o'clock shadow noun [ S ]
the slight darkness on a man's face, especially his chin, caused by the growth of
hair during the day
fiver noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
five pounds, or a note worth five pounds
This CD only cost me a fiver.
Can you change a tenner for two fivers?
See also tenner
five-star adjective [ before noun ]
describes a hotel or service that is of the best possible quality
a five-star hotel
fix verb REPAIR
1. [ T ] to repair something
They couldn't fix my old computer, so I bought a new one.
fix verb ARRANGE
2. [ I or T ] MAINLY UK to arrange or agree a time, place, price, etc
Shall we fix a time for our next meeting?
I understand the rent is fixed at £750 a month.
fix verb FASTEN
3. [ T + adverb or preposition ] to fasten something in position so that it cannot
move
We fixed the bookcase to the wall.
fix verb SIGHT
4. [ T ] to keep something or someone in sight
His eyes were fixed on the distant yacht.
She fixed the child with a stare of such disapproval he did not dare move.
fix verb KEEP
5. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] to continue to think about or remember
something
It is somehow fixed in my mind that my fate and that woman's are intertwined.
She was so frightened that she could not fix her thoughts on anything.
fix verb CHEAT
6. [ T often passive ] to do something dishonest to make certain that a
competition, race, or election is won by a particular person
Several jockeys were arrested on suspicion of fixing the race.
It sounds like the election was fixed.
fix verb HAIR/MAKE-UP/CLOTHES
7. [ T ] to make your hair, make-up, clothes, etc. look tidy
Give me a couple of minutes while I fix my hair.
fix verb PREPARE FOOD
8. [ T ] MAINLY US INFORMAL to cook or prepare food or drink
Whose turn is it to fix dinner?
[ + two objects ] Can I fix you a drink?/Can I fix a drink for you?
fix verb PUNISH
9. [ T ] SLANG to punish especially someone who has been unfair
I'm gonna fix her if she doesn't stop telling lies about me!
fix verb PRESERVE COLOURS
10. [ T ] SPECIALIZED to treat something, especially photographic material, with
chemicals to prevent its colours becoming pale
fix verb STOP REPRODUCTION
11. [ T ] US INFORMAL to remove the reproductive organs of an animal
fix verb DRUG
12. [ I ] SLANG to inject (= put into the body through a needle) an illegal drug
We saw kids as young as twelve fixing in doorways.
fix sth up phrasal verb [ M ] ARRANGE
1. to arrange a meeting, date, event, etc
I'd like to fix up a meeting with you next week sometime.
fix sth up phrasal verb [ M ] REPAIR
2. to repair or change something in order to improve it
Nick loves fixing up old cars.
fix sb up phrasal verb [ M ] PROVIDE
1. to provide someone with something that they need
Can he fix us up with somewhere to stay?
fix sb up phrasal verb [ M ] FIND A PARTNER
2. INFORMAL to find a romantic partner for someone
Jacques tried to fix me up with his older sister.
fix noun CHEAT
1. [ C usually singular ] when someone does something dishonest to make certain
that a competition, race or election is won by a particular person
The result was a fix!
fix noun AWKWARD SITUATION
2. [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL an awkward or difficult situation
I'm in a bit of a fix with the arrangements.
fix noun DRUG
3. [ C ] SLANG an amount of an illegal drug, or of another substance which has an
effect on someone if they take it
He was shaking badly and needed a fix.
HUMOROUS Ginny needs her daily fix of chocolate.
fix noun POSITION
4. [ C ] (the calculation of) the position of a vehicle, usually in relation to the
Earth
Do we still have a fix on that jet?
fixated adjective [ after verb ]
unable to stop thinking about something
a nation fixated on the past
Back in London, he became fixated with his best friend's daughter.
fixation noun [ C ]
the state of being unable to stop thinking about something or someone, or an
unnaturally strong interest in them
Liz has a fixation UK with / US on food.
a mother fixation
fixative noun [ C or U ]
1. a substance which holds something in position
a fixative for dentures
2. a chemical used to treat photographic material in order to preserve its colour
fixed adjective ARRANGED
1. arranged or decided already and not able to be changed
a fixed price
fixed interest rates
Is the date of the wedding fixed yet?
fixed adjective FASTENED
2. fastened somewhere and not able to be moved
be of/have no fixed abode/address LEGAL
to not have a permanent home
How are you fixed for sth ? INFORMAL
used to ask how much of something someone has, or to ask about someone's
arrangements
How are you fixed for cash?
How are you fixed for Saturday evening?
ˌ fixed ˈ assets plural noun
(in business) buildings, equipment and land owned by a company
fixedly adverb
gaze/look/stare fixedly
to look continuously at one thing
Taylor was staring fixedly at her.
ˌ fixed ˈ star noun [ C ]
a star which is so far from the Earth that it seems not to move in relation to other
distant (= far away) stars as the Earth moves through space
fixer noun [ C ] INFORMAL
someone who is skilled at arranging for things to happen, especially dishonestly
-fixing suffix
dishonest activity to make certain that a competition, race or election is won by a
particular person
Seven jockeys were arrested and charged with race-fixing.
After several days of questioning, he admitted to match-fixing.
-fixing suffix
dishonest activity to make certain that a competition, race or election is won by a
particular person
Seven jockeys were arrested and charged with race-fixing.
After several days of questioning, he admitted to match-fixing.
fixity noun [ U ] FORMAL
the quality of not changing
fixture noun [ C ] FIXED OBJECT
1. MAINLY UK a permanently fixed piece of furniture in a house, such as a bath,
which would not be taken by someone when they move to a new home
All fixtures and fittings are included in the house price.
FIGURATIVE They've been together so long he's become a permanent fixture in her
life.
Compare fitting
fixture noun [ C ] SPORTS EVENT
2. UK a day and usually a time agreed for a sports event
Next season's fixtures will be published early next month.
fizz verb [ I ] PRODUCE GAS
1. If a liquid fizzes, it produces a lot of bubbles and makes a continuous 's' sound
I could hear the champagne fizz as he poured it into my glass.
fizz verb [ I ] SOUND
2. to make a long sound like the s in 'sing'
Fireworks fizzed above the crowd.
fizz noun [ U ] GAS BUBBLES
1. bubbles of gas in a liquid
2. UK INFORMAL a fizzy (= with bubbles) drink, especially champagne
Who'd like some fizz?
fizz noun [ U ] SOUND
3. a long sound like the s in 'sing'
fizzle verb [ I ]
1. MAINLY US to gradually end
Interest in the project fizzled after the funding was withdrawn.
2. UK to make a weak continuous 's' sound
The fire fizzled miserably in the rain.
fizzle out phrasal verb
to gradually end, often in a disappointing or weak way
They went off to different universities and their relationship just fizzled out.
fizzy adjective
having a lot of bubbles
fizzy orange/mineral water
fizziness noun [ U ]
fizzy adjective
fjord , fiord noun [ C ]
a long strip of sea between steep hills, found especially in Norway
flab noun [ U ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
soft loose flesh on someone's body
I've got to lose this flab on my belly!
flabbergast verb [ T often passive ] INFORMAL
to shock someone, usually by telling them something they were not expecting
He was flabbergasted when we told him how cheap it was.
flabbergasted adjective
When they announced her name, the winner just sat there, flabbergasted.
flabby adjective FAT
1. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING soft and fat
flabby arms/thighs
I was starting to get a bit flabby around my waist.
flabby adjective WEAK
2. weak and without force
a flabby argument
flabbiness noun [ U ]
flaccid adjective
1. FORMAL soft rather than firm; weak
The penis is usually in a flaccid state.
2. DISAPPROVING weak and not effective
The program included a lacklustre and flaccid account of Rossini's Overture to "La
gazza ladra".
flack noun
1. [ U ] flak
2. [ C ] US INFORMAL a person chosen by a group or organization which is in a
difficult situation to speak officially for them to the public and answer questions and
criticisms
flag noun [ C ] SYMBOL
1. a piece of cloth, usually rectangular and fixed to a pole at one edge, that has a
pattern which shows it represents a country or a group, or has a particular meaning
Flags of all the participating countries are flying outside the stadium.
Flags were flapping/fluttering in the breeze.
The guard waved his flag and the train pulled away from the station.
See picture sports 1
flag noun [ C ] STONE
2. a flagstone
flag noun [ C ] PLANT
3. a type of large iris (FLOWER)
keep the flag flying MAINLY UK
to act or speak for the country or group which a flag represents
Put the flags out! UK HUMOROUS
something that you say when you are pleased and surprised that something has
happened
Josh has cleaned the bathroom - put the flags out!
wave/show/fly the flag UK
to show support for the country, group or organization that you belong to
flag verb MARK
1. [ T ] to put a mark on something so it can be found easily among other similar
things
Flag any files which might be useful later.
2. [ T ] SPECIALIZED to mark computer information with one of two possible values
so that you can process it later
We'll flag the records of interest in the database and then we can give you a print-
out.
flag verb BECOME TIRED
3. [ I ] to become tired or less interested
I was starting to flag after the ninth mile.
The conversation was flagging.
flag sth/sb down phrasal verb [ M ]
to cause a vehicle to stop by waving at its driver
I managed to flag down a passing police car.
fizzy adjective
fjord , fiord noun [ C ]
a long strip of sea between steep hills, found especially in Norway
flab noun [ U ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
soft loose flesh on someone's body
I've got to lose this flab on my belly!
flabbergast verb [ T often passive ] INFORMAL
to shock someone, usually by telling them something they were not expecting
He was flabbergasted when we told him how cheap it was.
flabbergasted adjective
When they announced her name, the winner just sat there, flabbergasted.
flabby adjective FAT
1. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING soft and fat
flabby arms/thighs
I was starting to get a bit flabby around my waist.
flabby adjective WEAK
2. weak and without force
a flabby argument
flabbiness noun [ U ]
flaccid adjective
1. FORMAL soft rather than firm; weak
The penis is usually in a flaccid state.
2. DISAPPROVING weak and not effective
The program included a lacklustre and flaccid account of Rossini's Overture to "La
gazza ladra".
flack noun
1. [ U ] flak
2. [ C ] US INFORMAL a person chosen by a group or organization which is in a
difficult situation to speak officially for them to the public and answer questions and
criticisms
flag noun [ C ] SYMBOL
1. a piece of cloth, usually rectangular and fixed to a pole at one edge, that has a
pattern which shows it represents a country or a group, or has a particular meaning
Flags of all the participating countries are flying outside the stadium.
Flags were flapping/fluttering in the breeze.
The guard waved his flag and the train pulled away from the station.
flag noun [ C ] STONE
2. a flagstone
flag noun [ C ] PLANT
3. a type of large iris (FLOWER)
keep the flag flying MAINLY UK
to act or speak for the country or group which a flag represents
Put the flags out! UK HUMOROUS
something that you say when you are pleased and surprised that something has
happened
Josh has cleaned the bathroom - put the flags out!
wave/show/fly the flag UK
to show support for the country, group or organization that you belong to
flag verb MARK
1. [ T ] to put a mark on something so it can be found easily among other similar
things
Flag any files which might be useful later.
2. [ T ] SPECIALIZED to mark computer information with one of two possible values
so that you can process it later
We'll flag the records of interest in the database and then we can give you a print-
out.
flag verb BECOME TIRED
3. [ I ] to become tired or less interested
I was starting to flag after the ninth mile.
The conversation was flagging.
flag sth/sb down phrasal verb [ M ]
to cause a vehicle to stop by waving at its driver
I managed to flag down a passing police car.
ˈ flag ˌ day noun [ C ]
UK ( AUSTRALIAN button day ) a day when money is collected in public places for a
charity
ˈ Flag ˌ Day noun [ U ]
14 June, a holiday in the US to remember the day in 1777 when the US first
officially used its flag
flagellant noun [ C ] FORMAL
someone who whips himself or someone else for religious reasons
flagellate verb [ T ] FORMAL
to whip someone, especially as a religious act
flagellation noun [ U ]
flagged adjective MAINLY UK
made of or covered in flagstones
a flagged path
flagging adjective
becoming weaker
flagging energy/enthusiasm
ˌ flag of con ˈ venience noun [ C usually singular ] UK
If a ship sails under a flag of convenience, it means it is operated or taxed under
the laws of a country different from its home country in order to save money
They always register their ships under a flag of convenience.
flagon noun [ C ] OLD USE
a large container for especially alcoholic drink, used in the past
a flagon of wine
flagpole noun [ C ] ( ALSO flagstaff )
a long pole which a flag is fastened to
flagrant adjective
(of a bad action, situation, person, etc.) shocking because of being so obvious
a flagrant misuse of funds/privilege
a flagrant breach of trust
a flagrant disregard for the law
flagrantly adverb
The organization flagrantly promotes the use of violence.
flagship noun [ C ] BEST PRODUCT
1. the best or most important product, idea, building, etc. that an organization
owns or produces
This machine is the flagship in our new range of computers.
The company's flagship store is in New York.
flagship noun [ C ] SHIP
2. the ship within a group on which the most important officer sails
flagstaff noun [ C ]
a flagpole
flagstone noun [ C ] ( ALSO flag )
a large flat piece of stone or concrete used for paths, floors, etc.
flag-waving noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the strong expression of support for a country or group, sometimes with military
intention
flail verb [ I or T ] ( ALSO flail about/around )
(especially of arms and legs) to move energetically in an uncontrolled way
A wasp came towards us and Howard started flailing his arms around.
She ran from the house in a terrible rage, her arms flailing in the air.
flail noun [ C ]
a tool consisting of a rod which swings from a long handle, used especially in the
past for threshing grain
flair noun
1. [ S ] natural ability to do something well
He has a flair for languages.
2. [ U ] when something is done in an exciting and interesting way
He played with great imagination and flair.
It's a competent enough piece of writing but it lacks flair.
flak , flack noun [ U ] CRITICISM
1. INFORMAL strong criticism or opposition
She took/caught some flak from her parents about her new dress.
flak , flack noun [ U ] FIRING OF GUNS
2. the firing of guns from the ground at enemy aircraft, or the things that the
guns fire
They flew into heavy flak over the target area.
flake noun [ C ] SMALL PIECE
1. a small thin piece of something, especially if it has come from a surface
covered with a layer of something
flakes of snow
soap flakes
This room needs decorating - flakes of paint keep coming off the walls.
flake noun [ C ] PERSON
2. MAINLY US INFORMAL a person who you cannot trust to remember things or to do
what they say they will do, or someone who behaves in a strange way
flake verb [ I ]
to come off a surface in small thin pieces
Patches of skin are starting to flake off .
flake out phrasal verb INFORMAL
to suddenly go to sleep or feel weak because you are extremely tired
I got home and flaked out on the sofa.
ˈ flak ˌ jacket noun [ C ]
a special piece of clothing worn by soldiers and police to protect them from bullets
and weapons
flaky adjective SMALL PIECE
1. coming off easily in small, flat, thin pieces
dry, flaky skin
a flaky scalp
flaky adjective PERSON
2. MAINLY US INFORMAL behaving in a way that is not responsible or expected
The central character of the play is a flaky neurotic.
flambé verb [ T ]
to pour alcohol over food and set fire to it during cooking
flambéed pancakes
flambé adjective [ after noun ]
steak flambé
flamboyant adjective
very confident in behaviour, or intended to be noticed, especially by being brightly
coloured
a flamboyant gesture
The writer's flamboyant lifestyle was well known.
His clothes were rather flamboyant for such a serious occasion.
flamboyance noun [ U ]
Her flamboyance annoys some people but delights others.
flamboyantly adverb
flame noun FIRE
1. [ C or U ] burning gas (from something on fire) which produces usually yellow
light
The flames grew larger as the fire spread.
The car flipped over and burst into flames (= started burning immediately) .
When the fire engine arrived the house was already in flames (= burning) .
flame noun EMOTION
2. [ C ] LITERARY a powerful feeling
Flames of passion swept through both of them.
See also old flame
flame noun COMPUTING
3. [ C ] SLANG an angry or offensive email
flame wars
go up in flames
1. to burn or be destroyed by fire
The factory went up in flames.
2. to be damaged or destroyed
His career went up in flames when he was jailed for theft.
flame verb BURN
1. [ I ] LITERARY to burn (more) brightly
The fire flamed cozily in the hearth.
The fire suddenly flamed (up) .
flame verb EMOTION
2. [ I ] LITERARY If an emotion flames, you feel it suddenly and strongly
Seeing the damage made hatred flame within her.
3. [ I ] LITERARY to suddenly become hot and red with emotion
His face flamed (red) with anger.
flame verb COMPUTING
4. [ T ] SLANG to send an angry or insulting email
Please don't flame me if you disagree with this message.
flamenco noun [ C or U ]
flamenco
a type of Spanish dance music, or the dance performed to this music
flamenco music/dancers
flameproof adjective
not likely to burn or be damaged by fire
flameproof clothing
flamer noun [ C ] SLANG
someone who sends an angry or insulting email
ˈ flame re ˌ tardant adjective
If a substance is flame retardant, it will slow down the spread of fire.
flame-thrower noun [ C ]
a device which produces a stream of burning liquid and is used for military
purposes or for removing plants from an area of wild land
flaming adjective
1. [ before noun ] UK SLANG used to add force, especially anger, to something
which is said
Put that down you flaming idiot!
2. a flaming row INFORMAL
a very angry argument in which people shout at each other
We had a flaming row over it last night.
flaming noun [ U ]
the act of sending an angry or insulting email
flamingo noun [ C ]
a large bird with pink feathers, long thin legs, a long neck and a beak that curves
down
flamingo noun [ C ]
down
flammable adjective
describes something that burns easily
Caution! This solvent is highly flammable.
flan noun [ C ]
1. UK a case of pastry or cake without a top, which contains fruit or something
savoury such as cheese
a cheese and onion flan
a pear flan
a flan dish
2. US a sweet soft food made from milk, eggs and sugar
flange noun [ C ]
a flat surface sticking out from an object, which is used to fix it to something or to
make it stronger
The flange around the wheels on railway trains helps to keep them on the rails.
flank noun [ C ] BODY
1. the area of the body between the ribs and the hips of an animal or a person
flank noun [ C ] SIDE
2. the side of something
right/left flank
A small group of houses clings to the eastern flank of the mountain.
flank verb [ T usually passive ]
to be at the side of someone or something
The president was flanked by senior ministers.
flannel noun PIECE OF CLOTH
1. [ C ] UK FOR facecloth (= a small cloth used to wash the body, especially the
face and hands)
flannel noun TYPE OF CLOTH
2. [ U ] a light cloth usually made from wool, used especially for making clothes
flannel trousers
3. flannels UK
trousers made of flannel
Traditionally, white flannels are worn when playing cricket.
flannel noun UNNECESSARY WORDS
4. [ U ] UK INFORMAL speech containing a lot of words which is used to avoid telling
the truth or answering a question, and is often intended to deceive
Leave out the flannel and answer the question!
flannel verb [ I or T ] UK INFORMAL
to use a lot of words to avoid telling the truth or answering a question, often in
order to deceive
flannelette noun [ U ]
a soft cloth made of cotton
flannelette sheets/pyjamas
a flannelette nightdress
flamingo noun [ C ]
down
flammable adjective
describes something that burns easily
Caution! This solvent is highly flammable.
flan noun [ C ]
1. UK a case of pastry or cake without a top, which contains fruit or something
savoury such as cheese
a cheese and onion flan
a pear flan
a flan dish
2. US a sweet soft food made from milk, eggs and sugar
flange noun [ C ]
a flat surface sticking out from an object, which is used to fix it to something or to
make it stronger
The flange around the wheels on railway trains helps to keep them on the rails.
flank noun [ C ] BODY
1. the area of the body between the ribs and the hips of an animal or a person
flank noun [ C ] SIDE
2. the side of something
right/left flank
A small group of houses clings to the eastern flank of the mountain.
flank verb [ T usually passive ]
to be at the side of someone or something
The president was flanked by senior ministers.
flannel noun PIECE OF CLOTH
1. [ C ] UK FOR facecloth (= a small cloth used to wash the body, especially the
face and hands)
flannel noun TYPE OF CLOTH
2. [ U ] a light cloth usually made from wool, used especially for making clothes
flannel trousers
3. flannels UK
trousers made of flannel
Traditionally, white flannels are worn when playing cricket.
flannel noun UNNECESSARY WORDS
4. [ U ] UK INFORMAL speech containing a lot of words which is used to avoid telling
the truth or answering a question, and is often intended to deceive
Leave out the flannel and answer the question!
flannel verb [ I or T ] UK INFORMAL
to use a lot of words to avoid telling the truth or answering a question, often in
order to deceive
flannelette noun [ U ]
a soft cloth made of cotton
flannelette sheets/pyjamas
a flannelette nightdress
flap verb WAVE
1. [ I or T ] to wave something, especially wings when or as if flying
A small bird flapped its wings furiously and flew upwards.
Flags flapped in the breeze above their tents.
flap verb BEHAVE NERVOUSLY
2. [ I ] INFORMAL to behave in a nervous and excited way
Don't flap - there's plenty of time to cook before they arrive.
Stop flapping about/around !
flap noun ADDITIONAL PIECE
1. [ C ] a piece of cloth or other material fixed along one edge, especially used for
covering or closing something
a pocket flap
a tent flap (= a piece of cloth which acts like a door)
A small flap of skin can be seen above the wound.
flap noun NERVOUS STATE
2. [ S ] INFORMAL a state of nervous excitement
She's in a flap because her parents are coming to visit.
flap noun AIRCRAFT PART
3. [ C ] SPECIALIZED part of the back of an aircraft wing which can be moved up or
down to help the aircraft go up or down
flap noun WAVE
4. [ C ] when a bird waves its wings when flying, or when something else moves
in this way
A few flaps of its long wings and the bird was gone.
flapjack noun [ C ]
1. UK a type of sweet chewy cake made from oats
2. US a pancake (= a sweet thick cake eaten hot, usually for breakfast)
flapper noun [ C ]
in the 1920s, a fashionable young woman, especially one showing independent
behaviour
flare verb BURN BRIGHTLY
1. [ I ] to burn brightly either for a short time or not regularly
The flame above the oil well flared (up) into the dark sky.
flare verb GET WORSE
2. [ I ] ( ALSO flare up ) When something bad such as violence, pain or anger
flares (up), it suddenly starts or gets much worse
Violence flared up again last night.
Tempers flared after a three-hour delay at Gatwick Airport yesterday.
flare verb MAKE WIDER
3. [ I or T ] to (cause to) become wider
The horse's nostrils flared.
The skirt fits tightly over the hips and flares just below the knees.
flare noun BRIGHTNESS
1. [ C ] a sudden increase in the brightness of a fire
There was a sudden flare when she threw the petrol onto the fire.
2. [ C ] a very bright light or coloured smoke which can be used as a signal, or a
device which produces this
We set off a flare to help guide our rescuers.
flare noun CLOTHES
3. flares UK
trousers that get wider below the knee
See picture clothes 5 (trousers)
4. [ C usually singular ] when something, especially clothing, becomes wider at
one end
This skirt has a definite flare.
flared adjective
becoming wider at one end
flared trousers
flared adjective
becoming wider at one end
flared trousers
flare-up noun [ C usually singular ]
when something such as violence, pain or anger suddenly starts or gets much
worse
There was another flare-up of rioting later that day.
flash verb SHINE SUDDENLY
1. [ I or T ] to shine brightly and suddenly, or to make something shine in this
way
Stop flashing that light in my eyes!
The lightning flashed and distant thunder rolled.
You'd better slow down, that car was flashing (its lights) at you.
2. [ I ] LITERARY If someone's eyes flash, they look bright because of the anger or
excitement the person is feeling.
flash verb MOVE FAST
3. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to move very fast
They flashed past/by on a motorcycle.
flash verb SHOW QUICKLY
4. [ T ] to show something for a short time
He flashed a smile and offered to buy me a drink.
5. [ I or T ] INFORMAL If someone flashes, they show their sexual organs in public
He came out of the bushes and flashed at me.
flash verb COMMUNICATE
6. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] to communicate something quickly,
especially using radio or light waves
Within moments of an event happening, the news can be flashed around the
world.
flash verb SUDDEN EXPERIENCE
7. [ I + adverb or preposition ] If something flashes through/across your mind,
you suddenly or quickly think of it
The thought suddenly flashed through my mind that she didn't want to be here.
flash sth around/about phrasal verb INFORMAL
to intentionally make people understand that you have something valuable,
especially in order to make them feel unhappy because they do not have it
She was flashing her engagement ring around.
flash back phrasal verb
If your mind or thoughts flash back to something that happened in the past, you
suddenly remember it
Her mind flashed back to the day of their divorce.
flash noun BRIGHT LIGHT
1. [ C ] a sudden bright light that quickly disappears
a flash of lightning
The bomb exploded in a flash of yellow light.
flash noun SUDDEN EXPERIENCE
2. [ C usually singular ] a sudden, powerful emotional or mental experience
The idea came to her in a flash of inspiration/genius.
flash noun PHOTOGRAPHY
3. [ C or U ] the device or system used to produce a bright light for a short time
when taking a photograph
Where's the flash for the camera?
It's quite dark in here, I'll have to use flash.
flash noun MILITARY SIGN
4. [ C ] UK a small object or piece of material worn on a military uniform as a sign
of rank, or (on clothing) a strip or mark of colour different from the main colour
flash noun QUICK LOOK
5. [ C ] HUMOROUS a quick look at something
She leant over and I caught a flash of pink underwear.
a flash in the pan
something that happened only once or for a short time and was not repeated
Sadly, their success was just a flash in the pan.
in a flash ( ALSO quick as a flash ) INFORMAL
quickly or suddenly
The ceremony was over in a flash.
flash adjective UK
looking expensive in a way that attracts attention
That's a very flash suit he's wearing.
flashback noun
1. [ C or U ] a short part of a film, story or play that goes back to events in the
past
The novel began with a flashback to the hero's experiences in the war.
2. [ C usually plural ] a sudden, clear memory of a past event or time, usually one
that was bad
I kept having flashbacks of her lying there bleeding.
flashback noun
past
that was bad
flashbulb noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a small electric light that can be fixed to a camera and which makes a bright flash
so that photographs can be taken inside or when it is dark
ˈ flash ˌ card noun [ C ]
a card with a word or picture on it which is used to help students learn
flasher noun [ C ] INFORMAL
someone who shows their sexual organs in public
ˌ flash ˈ flood noun [ C ]
a sudden and severe flood
The unusually heavy rain caused flash floods in several mountain villages.
flash-fry verb [ T ]
to fry something quickly on both sides in very hot oil
flashgun noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a device usually held away from a camera which automatically makes a flash
when a camera is taking a picture
flashlight noun [ C ]
US FOR torch (= a small light that you can carry with you)
flash-mob , flash mob noun [ C ]
a group of people who agree to come together suddenly in a place and do
something funny or silly and then move away
flashpoint noun VIOLENCE
1. ( US ALSO flash point ) [ C ] a place or stage at which violence might be
expected to begin
Because of the army's presence, the city is seen to be the flashpoint of the area.
flashpoint noun TEMPERATURE
2. [ C usually singular ] SPECIALIZED The flashpoint of a liquid is the lowest
temperature at which the vapour it produces will burn in air.
flashy adjective DISAPPROVING
looking too bright, big and expensive in a way that is intended to get attention
and admiration
flashy clothes
a flashy car
flashy gold jewellery
flashily adverb
flashily dressed
flashiness noun [ U ]
flashback noun
past
that was bad
flashbulb noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a small electric light that can be fixed to a camera and which makes a bright flash
so that photographs can be taken inside or when it is dark
ˈ flash ˌ card noun [ C ]
a card with a word or picture on it which is used to help students learn
flasher noun [ C ] INFORMAL
someone who shows their sexual organs in public
ˌ flash ˈ flood noun [ C ]
a sudden and severe flood
The unusually heavy rain caused flash floods in several mountain villages.
flash-fry verb [ T ]
to fry something quickly on both sides in very hot oil
flashgun noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a device usually held away from a camera which automatically makes a flash
when a camera is taking a picture
flashlight noun [ C ]
US FOR torch (= a small light that you can carry with you)
flash-mob , flash mob noun [ C ]
a group of people who agree to come together suddenly in a place and do
something funny or silly and then move away
flashpoint noun VIOLENCE
1. ( US ALSO flash point ) [ C ] a place or stage at which violence might be
expected to begin
Because of the army's presence, the city is seen to be the flashpoint of the area.
flashpoint noun TEMPERATURE
2. [ C usually singular ] SPECIALIZED The flashpoint of a liquid is the lowest
temperature at which the vapour it produces will burn in air.
flashy adjective DISAPPROVING
looking too bright, big and expensive in a way that is intended to get attention
and admiration
flashy clothes
a flashy car
flashy gold jewellery
flashily adverb
flashily dressed
flashiness noun [ U ]
flask noun [ C ] HOT DRINKS
flask
1. UK ( US TRADEMARK Thermos ) a special container that keeps drinks hot or cold
a flask of coffee/tea
flask noun [ C ] ALCOHOL
2. a flat bottle that is used to carry alcohol in your pocket
a hip flask
flask noun [ C ] SCIENCE
3. a glass container for liquids which has a wide base and a narrow neck and
which is used in a laboratory
flat adjective LEVEL
1. level and smooth, with no curved, high, or hollow parts
An ice rink needs to be completely flat.
Roll out the pastry on a flat surface.
Much of the countryside in East Anglia is very flat.
flat adjective NOT HIGH
2. level but having little or no height
flat shoes (= shoes which do not have a raised heel)
3. describes bread which is made without yeast, and therefore does not rise
Pitta and naan are two types of flat bread.
4. flat cap/hat
UK a hat which is not rounded on top and has little height
flat adjective NOT ACTIVE
5. not active; not interesting or without emotion
After the excitement of the party, life seems rather flat now.
I thought her performance a little flat.
I think the colours in this painting are rather flat (= not varied or bright) .
UK I left my car lights on all night and now the battery is flat ( US dead ) (= has
no electrical power left in it) .
flat adjective DRINK
6. describes a drink which has stopped being fizzy (= with bubbles)
If you don't put the top back on that bottle of beer, it will go flat.
Compare still
flat adjective COMPLETE
7. [ before noun ] ( US ALSO flat-out ) complete or certain, and not likely to
change
His request for time off work was met with a flat refusal .
The minister has issued a flat denial of the accusations against her.
flat adjective WITHOUT AIR
8. If something such as a tyre or ball is flat, it does not contain enough air
I got a flat UK tyre / US tire (= The air went out of it) after driving over a nail.
flat adjective FIXED
9. [ before noun ] (especially of an amount of money) fixed; not likely to change
We charge a flat fee/rate of $25 per hour.
And that's flat! UK INFORMAL
used to tell someone that the decision you have just announced will not change
even if they try to persuade you to change it
I'm not coming, and that's flat!
be (as) flat as a pancake INFORMAL
to be very flat
The countryside around Cambridge is as flat as a pancake.
flat noun HOME
1. [ C ] UK ( US apartment ) a set of rooms for living in which are part of a larger
building and are usually all on one floor
a furnished/unfurnished flat
a block of flats
They have a house in the country and a flat in London.
See also flatmate
flat noun LEVEL GROUND
2. [ C often plural ] an area of low level ground, often near water
The salt flats are used for motor racing.
The mud flats attract large numbers of birds.
3. the flat of your hand
the palm and fingers when they are held straight and level
He hit me with the flat of his hand.
4. be on the flat
to be on a level surface, not on a slope or hill
Most of the path is on the flat.
flat noun TYRE WITHOUT AIR
5. [ C usually singular ] MAINLY US INFORMAL a flat tyre
We were late because we had to stop and fix a flat.
flat noun SHOES
6. flats
flats
women's shoes without high heels
I feel more comfortable in flats.
flat noun MUSIC
7. [ C ] (a symbol for) a note that is a semitone lower than a stated note
See picture music reading
flat adjective , adverb MUSIC
(in music) lower than a particular note or the correct note
The top string on your violin is flat.
She sang flat throughout the song (= all the notes she sang were too low) .
Compare natural ; sharp
See picture sharp
flat adverb LEVEL
1. in a level position, often against another surface
Lay the cloth flat across the table.
flat adverb NOT HIGH
2. into a flat shape without height
These garden chairs will fold flat for storage.
flat adverb COMPLETELY
3. INFORMAL completely or to the greatest degree possible
She told him flat/ US ALSO flat out that she would not go to the show.
Could you lend me some money, I'm flat broke (= I have no money) .
See also stony broke
4. three minutes/half an hour, etc. flat INFORMAL
exactly three minutes/half an hour, etc
We managed to get to the station in five minutes flat.
5. flat out INFORMAL
as fast or as hard as possible
My car only does about 60 mph, even when it's going flat out.
We've been working flat out to get this done.
flat adjective LEVEL

1. level and smooth, with no curved, high, or hollow parts
An ice rink needs to be completely flat.
Roll out the pastry on a flat surface.
Much of the countryside in East Anglia is very flat.
flat adjective NOT HIGH
2. level but having little or no height
flat shoes (= shoes which do not have a raised heel)
3. describes bread which is made without yeast, and therefore does not rise
Pitta and naan are two types of flat bread.
4. flat cap/hat
UK a hat which is not rounded on top and has little height
flat adjective NOT ACTIVE
5. not active; not interesting or without emotion
After the excitement of the party, life seems rather flat now.
I thought her performance a little flat.
I think the colours in this painting are rather flat (= not varied or bright) .
UK I left my car lights on all night and now the battery is flat ( US dead ) (= has
no electrical power left in it) .
flat adjective DRINK
6. describes a drink which has stopped being fizzy (= with bubbles)
If you don't put the top back on that bottle of beer, it will go flat.
Compare still
flat adjective COMPLETE
7. [ before noun ] ( US ALSO flat-out ) complete or certain, and not likely to
change
His request for time off work was met with a flat refusal .
The minister has issued a flat denial of the accusations against her.
flat adjective WITHOUT AIR
8. If something such as a tyre or ball is flat, it does not contain enough air
I got a flat UK tyre / US tire (= The air went out of it) after driving over a nail.
flat adjective FIXED
9. [ before noun ] (especially of an amount of money) fixed; not likely to change
We charge a flat fee/rate of $25 per hour.
And that's flat! UK INFORMAL
used to tell someone that the decision you have just announced will not change
even if they try to persuade you to change it
I'm not coming, and that's flat!
be (as) flat as a pancake INFORMAL
to be very flat
The countryside around Cambridge is as flat as a pancake.
flat noun HOME
1. [ C ] UK ( US apartment ) a set of rooms for living in which are part of a larger
building and are usually all on one floor
a furnished/unfurnished flat
a block of flats
They have a house in the country and a flat in London.
See also flatmate
flat noun LEVEL GROUND
2. [ C often plural ] an area of low level ground, often near water
The salt flats are used for motor racing.
The mud flats attract large numbers of birds.
3. the flat of your hand
the palm and fingers when they are held straight and level
He hit me with the flat of his hand.
4. be on the flat
to be on a level surface, not on a slope or hill
Most of the path is on the flat.
flat noun TYRE WITHOUT AIR
5. [ C usually singular ] MAINLY US INFORMAL a flat tyre
We were late because we had to stop and fix a flat.
flat noun SHOES
6. flats
flats
I feel more comfortable in flats.
flat noun MUSIC
7. [ C ] (a symbol for) a note that is a semitone lower than a stated note
See picture music reading
flat adjective , adverb MUSIC
(in music) lower than a particular note or the correct note
The top string on your violin is flat.
She sang flat throughout the song (= all the notes she sang were too low) .
Compare natural ; sharp
See picture sharp
flat adverb LEVEL
1. in a level position, often against another surface
Lay the cloth flat across the table.
flat adverb NOT HIGH
2. into a flat shape without height
These garden chairs will fold flat for storage.
flat adverb COMPLETELY
3. INFORMAL completely or to the greatest degree possible
She told him flat/ US ALSO flat out that she would not go to the show.
Could you lend me some money, I'm flat broke (= I have no money) .
See also stony broke
4. three minutes/half an hour, etc. flat INFORMAL
exactly three minutes/half an hour, etc
We managed to get to the station in five minutes flat.
5. flat out INFORMAL
as fast or as hard as possible
My car only does about 60 mph, even when it's going flat out.
We've been working flat out to get this done.
flat-chested adjective MAINLY DISAPPROVING
A woman who is flat-chested has small breasts.
ˌ flat ˈ feet plural noun
feet that are level across the bottom instead of curved
flatfish noun [ C ]
any thin flat sea fish, such as a plaice or a sole
flat-footed adjective [ before noun ] , adverb
having feet whose bottom part is flat against the ground and not curved up in an
arch
flat-footed adjective
1. in an difficult or unexpected situation that makes you unable to move or react
quickly or skilfully
Campaign leaders were caught flat-footed when the opinion polls suddenly
started to swing the other way.
2. INFORMAL boring, with no new ideas or imagination
a flat-footed political campaign
As with all the best American comedies, the sharpness of the script made the
average British sitcom seem embarrassingly flat-footed.
flathead noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
a thin flat sea fish which can be eaten
flatlet noun [ C ] UK
a very small flat
flatline verb [ I ] INFORMAL
1. to be at a low level and not increase
Have widescreen TV prices finally flatlined?
2. to stop being popular or successful
Her acting career has flatlined.
3. to die
flatlining noun [ U ]
The effects of the music industry's flatlining have been felt by retailers.
flatly adverb WITHOUT EMOTION
1. in a way that shows no emotion or interest
The witness responded flatly to the judge's questions.
flatly adverb COMPLETELY
2. If you flatly deny, refuse or disagree with something or someone, you do it
completely or in a very clear and definite way.
flatly adverb WITHOUT EMOTION
1. in a way that shows no emotion or interest

The witness responded flatly to the judge's questions.
flatly adverb COMPLETELY
2. If you flatly deny, refuse or disagree with something or someone, you do it
completely or in a very clear and definite way.
flatmate noun [ C ] UK
a person who shares an apartment with another person
flatness noun [ U ] LEVEL QUALITY
1. the quality of being level and without curved, high or hollow parts
The flatness of the desert was broken only by a few large piles of rocks.
flatness noun [ U ] NO EMOTION
2. when someone or something shows no emotion or interest
All the critics remarked on the flatness of the performance.
flatpack noun [ C ] UK
a piece of furniture that is sold in pieces inside a flat box, ready for the buyer to
put them together
ˈ flat ˌ racing noun [ U ]
a type of horse racing where the horses do not jump over fences
ˈ flat ˌ rate noun [ C ] UK
a charge that is the same for everyone
Clients are charged a flat rate of £15 monthly.
a flat-rate contribution
ˌ flat ˈ screen noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a computer monitor or a television that is thin and flat
a flat screen TV
flatten verb [ I or T ] BECOME LEVEL
1. to become level or cause something to become level
Several trees were flattened (= knocked down) by the storm.
The path flattens (out) (= does not go up so much) as it reaches the top of the
hill.
flatten verb [ I or T ] MAKE THINNER
2. to become level and thinner or to cause something to become level and thinner
Flatten the pastry into a thin disc with your hands.
The biscuits will flatten out as they cook.
flatter verb [ T ]
1. to praise someone in order to make them feel attractive or important,
sometimes in a way that is not sincere
I knew he was only flattering me because he wanted to borrow some money.
2. flatter yourself
to believe something good about yourself although it might not be true
[ + that ] Clive flatters himself that he's an excellent speaker.
3. flatter to deceive
to give the appearance of being better than the true situation
I suspect these statistics flatter to deceive.
4. be/feel flattered
to feel very pleased and proud because someone has said good things about you
or has made you feel important
She was flattered by his attention.
They were flattered to be invited to dinner by the mayor.
We felt flattered that so many people came to our party.
5. to make someone look more attractive than usual
That new hairstyle really flatters her.
Short skirts don't flatter me at all.
flatter verb [ T ]
1. to praise someone in order to make them feel attractive or important,
sometimes in a way that is not sincere
I knew he was only flattering me because he wanted to borrow some money.
2. flatter yourself
to believe something good about yourself although it might not be true
[ + that ] Clive flatters himself that he's an excellent speaker.
3. flatter to deceive
to give the appearance of being better than the true situation
I suspect these statistics flatter to deceive.
4. be/feel flattered
to feel very pleased and proud because someone has said good things about you
or has made you feel important
She was flattered by his attention.
They were flattered to be invited to dinner by the mayor.
We felt flattered that so many people came to our party.
5. to make someone look more attractive than usual
That new hairstyle really flatters her.
Short skirts don't flatter me at all.
flatterer noun [ C ] SLIGHTLY DISAPPROVING
someone who praises people without being sincere
You can't believe a word Tony says, he's a real flatterer.
flattering adjective
making someone look or seem better or more attractive than usual
a flattering photograph
That suit is very flattering.
He's always making flattering remarks .
flattery noun [ U ]
when you praise someone, often because you want something from them
I was really pleased when he said how well I'd done, because he isn't known for
flattery.
Flattery will get you nowhere. HUMOROUS SAYING
used to tell someone that their praise will not persuade you to do anything you do
not want to do
flatties plural noun UK INFORMAL
ˈ flat- ˌ top noun [ C ]
flat-top
a short hair cut, usually for a man, in which the hair is flat on the top of the head
ˌ flat ˈ tyre noun [ C usually singular ] ( MAINLY US INFORMAL flat )
a tyre that does not have any or enough air in it
See also puncture
flatulence noun [ U ] FORMAL
gas in the stomach and bowels
Eating beans can cause flatulence.
flatulent adjective
flatulence noun [ U ] FORMAL
gas in the stomach and bowels
Eating beans can cause flatulence.
flatulent adjective
flatware noun [ U ] US
cutlery
flatworm noun [ C ]
a worm with a flat body that can live inside the bodies of people and animals and
often causes disease
flaunt verb [ T ] MAINLY DISAPPROVING
1. to show or make obvious something you are proud of in order to get admiration
He's got a lot of money but he doesn't flaunt it.
Annabelle was flaunting her tan in a little white dress.
2. flaunt yourself
to show your body in a confident and sexual manner
flautist noun [ C ] ( US ALSO flutist )
a person who plays the flute
flavonoid noun [ C ] ( ALSO bioflavonoid )
a substance in fruit and vegetables that may help protect people against some
types of cancer or heart disease
flavour UK , US flavor noun
1. [ C or U ] how food or drink tastes, or a particular taste itself
Add a little salt to bring out the flavour of the herbs.
My fish was delicious but Charles' beef had almost no flavour (= did not taste of
anything) .
This wine has a light, fruity flavour (= the taste of fruit) .
We sell 32 different flavours (= particular types of taste) of ice cream.
2. [ S ] a particular quality or character
The resort has a nautical flavour.
3. [ S ] an idea or quick experience of something
To give you a flavour of what the book is like Jilly is going to read out a brief
extract.
flavour of the month UK INFORMAL
the most popular person at a particular time
Andy is certainly flavour of the month with the boss.
flavour UK , US flavor verb [ T often passive ]
to give a particular taste to food or drink
This sauce is flavoured with garlic and herbs.
You can use fresh herbs to flavour the soup.
-flavoured UK , US -flavored suffix
tasting of the thing stated
orange-flavoured chocolate
mint-flavoured sweets
-flavoured UK , US -flavored suffix
tasting of the thing stated
orange-flavoured chocolate
mint-flavoured sweets
ˈ flavour en ˌ hancer noun [ C ] UK
a substance used to improve the taste of a food or drink
flavourful UK , US flavorful adjective
full of flavour
a flavourful sauce
flavouring UK , US flavoring noun [ C or U ]
something that is added to food or drink to give it a particular taste
artificial/natural flavouring(s)
flavourless UK , US flavorless adjective
having little or no flavour
These grapes are completely flavourless.
flavoursome adjective UK
having good flavour or a lot of flavour
flavoursome wine
flaw noun [ C ]
a fault, mistake or weakness, especially one that happens while something is
being planned or made, or which causes something not to be perfect
I returned the material because it had a flaw in it.
There's a fatal flaw in your reasoning.
This report is full of flaws.
a character flaw
flaw verb [ T ]
to cause something to be not perfect
A tiny mark flawed the otherwise perfect silk shirt.
flawed adjective
not perfect, or containing mistakes
Diamonds are still valuable, even when they are flawed.
His argument is deeply flawed.
flawed beauty
flawless adjective
perfect or without mistakes
a flawless complexion
a flawless performance
flawlessly adverb
flawless adjective
flawlessly adverb
flax noun [ U ]
a plant with blue flowers grown for its stems or seeds, or the thread made from
this plant
flaxen adjective LITERARY
(of hair) pale yellow
a flaxen-haired youth
flay verb [ T ]
1. to remove the skin from a person's or animal's body
2. to whip a person or animal so hard that some of their skin comes off
FIGURATIVE The critics really flayed (= severely criticized) his new book.
flay sb alive INFORMAL
to punish or tell someone off severely
I'll be flayed alive when she finds out!
flea noun [ C ]
a very small jumping insect which feeds on the blood of animals and humans
send sb away with a flea in their ear UK INFORMAL
to angrily tell someone to go away
A young kid came asking for money but I sent him away with a flea in his ear.
fleabag noun [ C ] PERSON OR ANIMAL
1. UK INFORMAL a dirty and/or unpleasant person or animal
fleabag noun [ C ] HOTEL
2. US a cheap dirty hotel
fleabite noun [ C ]
the bite of a flea
fleabitten adjective INFORMAL
dirty and in bad condition
I'm not going to stay in that fleabitten old place.
ˈ flea ˌ collar noun [ C ]
a collar for dogs and cats that has been treated with chemicals which kill fleas
flawless adjective
flawlessly adverb
flax noun [ U ]
this plant
flay verb [ T ]
flea noun [ C ]
fleabite noun [ C ]
the bite of a flea
ˈ flea ˌ market noun [ C ]
a market, which usually takes place outside, where old or used goods are sold
cheaply
fleapit noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
an old, dirty cinema or theatre
fleck noun [ C usually plural ]
a small mark or spot
Blackbirds' eggs are pale blue with brown flecks on them.
I got a few flecks of paint on the window.
flecked adjective
having small marks or spots
It's a dark grey material but it's flecked with white.
fled
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF flee
fledged adjective
(of young birds) able to fly
See fully-fledged
fledgling , fledgeling noun [ C ]
a young bird that has grown feathers and is learning to fly
fledgling , fledgeling adjective [ before noun ]
new and without experience
The current economic climate is particularly difficult for fledgling businesses.
flawless adjective
flawlessly adverb
flax noun [ U ]
this plant
flay verb [ T ]
flea noun [ C ]
fleabite noun [ C ]
the bite of a flea
ˈ flea ˌ market noun [ C ]
a market, which usually takes place outside, where old or used goods are sold
cheaply
fleapit noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
an old, dirty cinema or theatre
fleck noun [ C usually plural ]
a small mark or spot
Blackbirds' eggs are pale blue with brown flecks on them.
I got a few flecks of paint on the window.
flecked adjective
having small marks or spots
It's a dark grey material but it's flecked with white.
fled
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF flee
fledged adjective
(of young birds) able to fly
See fully-fledged
fledgling , fledgeling noun [ C ]
a young bird that has grown feathers and is learning to fly
fledgling , fledgeling adjective [ before noun ]
new and without experience
The current economic climate is particularly difficult for fledgling businesses.
flee verb [ I or T never passive ]
1. to escape by running away, especially because of danger or fear
She fled (from) the room in tears.
In order to escape capture, he fled to the mountains.
2. flee the country
to quickly go to another country in order to escape from something or someone
It is likely that the suspects have fled the country by now.
fleece noun [ C or U ]
1. the thick covering of wool on a sheep, or this covering used to make a piece of
clothing
My jacket is lined with fleece/is fleece -lined .
2. a type of warm soft material, or a jacket made from this
See picture clothes 3
fleece verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to take someone's money dishonestly, by charging too much money or by
cheating them
That restaurant really fleeced us!
fleecy adjective
soft and woolly, or looking like this
fleecy clouds
fleet noun [ C ] SHIPS
1. a group of ships, or all of the ships in a country's navy
a fleet of 20 sailing ships
a fishing fleet
The British fleet sailed from Southampton early this morning.
fleet noun [ C ] VEHICLES
2. a number of buses, aircraft, etc. under the control of one person or
organization
He owns a fleet of taxis.
fleet adjective LITERARY
able to run quickly
She was slight and fleet of foot /fleet- footed .
fleetness noun [ U ]
ˌ fleet ˈ admiral noun [ C ]
an officer of the highest rank in the US Navy
fleeting adjective
short or quick
a fleeting glimpse
This is just a fleeting visit.
fleetingly adverb
I glimpsed her fleetingly through the window.
ˈ Fleet ˌ Street noun
the road in London where most of Britain's national newspapers were produced in
the past, often used to refer to British national newspapers in general
He's a Fleet Street journalist (= He works for a British national newspaper) .
Flemish noun [ U ]
the main language of northern Belgium
Flemish adjective
flesh noun
1. [ U ] the soft part of the body of a person or animal which is between the skin
and the bones, or the soft inside part of a fruit or vegetable
The thorn went deep into the flesh of my hand.
The flesh of the fruit is white.
Vegetarians don't eat animal flesh (= meat) .
2. the flesh
LITERARY the physical body and not the mind or the soul
This left him plenty of time to indulge in the pleasures of the flesh (= physical
pleasures, such as sex or eating) .
See also fleshpot
be (only) flesh and blood
to have normal human limits, needs, etc
Of course I find pretty young women attractive - I'm only flesh and blood.
be sb's own flesh and blood
to be someone's relation
I couldn't send him away - he's my own flesh and blood.
in the flesh
in real life, and not on TV, in a film, in a picture, etc
I've seen her perform on television, but never in the flesh.
make your flesh crawl/creep
to make someone very worried or frightened
I don't mind spiders but worms make my flesh crawl.
put flesh on (the bones of) sth
to add more details to a plan, idea, argument, etc. to make it better or more
complete
flesh verb
flesh sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to add more details or information to something
These plans need to be fleshed out with some more figures.
flesh noun
1. [ U ] the soft part of the body of a person or animal which is between the skin
and the bones, or the soft inside part of a fruit or vegetable
The thorn went deep into the flesh of my hand.
The flesh of the fruit is white.
Vegetarians don't eat animal flesh (= meat) .
2. the flesh
LITERARY the physical body and not the mind or the soul
This left him plenty of time to indulge in the pleasures of the flesh (= physical
pleasures, such as sex or eating) .
See also fleshpot
be (only) flesh and blood
to have normal human limits, needs, etc
Of course I find pretty young women attractive - I'm only flesh and blood.
be sb's own flesh and blood
to be someone's relation
I couldn't send him away - he's my own flesh and blood.
in the flesh
in real life, and not on TV, in a film, in a picture, etc
I've seen her perform on television, but never in the flesh.
make your flesh crawl/creep
to make someone very worried or frightened
I don't mind spiders but worms make my flesh crawl.
put flesh on (the bones of) sth
to add more details to a plan, idea, argument, etc. to make it better or more
complete
flesh verb
flesh sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to add more details or information to something
These plans need to be fleshed out with some more figures.
flesh-coloured UK AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH , US flesh-colored adjective
approximately the colour of white people's skin
a pair of flesh-coloured tights
fleshly adjective LITERARY
relating to the physical body, not the mind or the soul
He is someone who finds it difficult to curb his fleshly (= sexual) desires .
fleshpot noun [ C usually plural ] HUMOROUS
a place which supplies sexual entertainment and food and drink
ˈ flesh ˌ wound noun [ C ]
a wound that does not damage the bones or inner organs
fleshy adjective
having a lot of soft flesh
fleshiness noun [ U ]
fleur-de-lis noun [ C ] ( ALSO fleur-de-lys )
a pattern representing a flower with three separate parts joined at the bottom,
used in coats of arms
flew
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF fly
flex verb [ T ]
to bend an arm, leg, etc. or tighten a muscle
First, straighten your legs, then flex your feet.
He tried to impress me by flexing his huge muscles.
flex your muscles
to try to worry an opponent by publicly showing military, political or financial
power
The parade is the first sign of the new regime flexing its military muscles.
See also muscle-flexing
flex noun [ C or U ] UK ( US cord )
(a length of) wire with a plastic cover used for connecting a piece of electrical
equipment to a supply of electricity
The flex on this iron isn't long enough to reach the socket.
See picture flex
flexible adjective CHANGEABLE
1. able to change or be changed easily according to the situation
My schedule is quite flexible - I could arrange to meet with you any day next
week.
flexible adjective ABLE TO BEND
2. able to bend or to be bent easily without breaking
Rubber is a flexible substance.
Dancers and gymnasts need to be very flexible (= able to bend their bodies
easily) .
flexibility noun [ U ]
The advantage of this system is its flexibility.
You can improve your flexibility by exercising.
flexibly adverb
Today's schedule of events is organized flexibly so that people can decide for
themselves what they want to do.
week.
easily) .
flexibly adverb
ˌ flexible ˈ working noun [ U ]
when an employer allows people to choose the times that they work so that they
can do other things, for example spend time with their children
Employers can help women by offering childcare and flexible working.
flexitime noun [ U ] UK ( US flextime )
a system of working in which people work a set number of hours within a fixed
period of time, but can change the time they start or finish work
flibbertigibbet noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
a silly person who talks too much
flick verb [ I + adv/prep T ]
to move or hit something with a short sudden movement
He carefully flicked the loose hairs from the shoulders of his jacket.
She quickly flicked the crumbs off the table.
Horses flick their tails to make flies go away.
Windscreen wipers flick from side to side.
The boys ran round the swimming pool, flicking each other with their towels.
The lizard flicked out its tongue at a fly.
His eyes flicked between her and the door.
flick sth on/off phrasal verb [ M ]
to move a switch in order to make electrical equipment start/stop working
Could you flick the light switch on for me, please?
flick through sth phrasal verb
to look quickly at the pages of a magazine, book, etc.
flick noun [ C ] QUICK MOVEMENT
1. a sudden, quick movement
With a flick of its tail, the cat was gone.
A flick of a switch turns the machine on.
2. have a flick through sth
to quickly look at the pages of a book, magazine, etc
I've had a flick through their brochure and it looks quite interesting.
flick noun [ C ] FILM
3. UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL a film
See skin flick ; chick flick
4. the flicks UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
the cinema
What's on at the flicks this week?
flicker verb
1. [ I ] to shine with a light that is sometimes bright and sometimes weak
I felt a cold draft and the candle started to flicker.
2. [ I or T ] to appear for a short time or to make a sudden movement
A smile flickered across her face.
He'd been in a coma for weeks, when all of a sudden he flickered an eyelid.
flickering adjective
a flickering candle/fire
a flickering hope
flicker noun [ C usually singular ] LIGHT
1. when a light is sometimes bright and sometimes weak
the soft flicker of candlelight
flicker noun [ C usually singular ] FEELING
2. a short feeling or expression of an emotion or quality
There was a flicker of hope in his eyes.

week.
easily) .
flexibly adverb
ˌ flexible ˈ working noun [ U ]
when an employer allows people to choose the times that they work so that they
can do other things, for example spend time with their children
Employers can help women by offering childcare and flexible working.
flexitime noun [ U ] UK ( US flextime )
a system of working in which people work a set number of hours within a fixed
period of time, but can change the time they start or finish work
flibbertigibbet noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
a silly person who talks too much
flick verb [ I + adv/prep T ]
to move or hit something with a short sudden movement
He carefully flicked the loose hairs from the shoulders of his jacket.
She quickly flicked the crumbs off the table.
Horses flick their tails to make flies go away.
Windscreen wipers flick from side to side.
The boys ran round the swimming pool, flicking each other with their towels.
The lizard flicked out its tongue at a fly.
His eyes flicked between her and the door.
flick sth on/off phrasal verb [ M ]
to move a switch in order to make electrical equipment start/stop working
Could you flick the light switch on for me, please?
flick through sth phrasal verb
flick noun [ C ] QUICK MOVEMENT
1. a sudden, quick movement
With a flick of its tail, the cat was gone.
A flick of a switch turns the machine on.
2. have a flick through sth
to quickly look at the pages of a book, magazine, etc
I've had a flick through their brochure and it looks quite interesting.
flick noun [ C ] FILM
3. UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL a film
See skin flick ; chick flick
4. the flicks UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
the cinema
What's on at the flicks this week?
flicker verb
1. [ I ] to shine with a light that is sometimes bright and sometimes weak
I felt a cold draft and the candle started to flicker.
2. [ I or T ] to appear for a short time or to make a sudden movement
A smile flickered across her face.
He'd been in a coma for weeks, when all of a sudden he flickered an eyelid.
flickering adjective
a flickering candle/fire
a flickering hope
flicker noun [ C usually singular ] LIGHT
1. when a light is sometimes bright and sometimes weak
the soft flicker of candlelight
flicker noun [ C usually singular ] FEELING
2. a short feeling or expression of an emotion or quality
There was a flicker of hope in his eyes.
ˈ flick ˌ factor noun [ S ]
how good a book or magazine looks when you pick it up and look through it
quickly
ˈ flick ˌ knife noun [ C ] UK ( US switchblade )
a knife with a blade hidden inside its handle which springs out when a button is
pressed
flier noun [ C ] INFORMATION
1. ( US USUALLY flyer ) a small piece of paper with information on it about a
product or event
flier noun [ C ] TRAVEL
2. ( ALSO flyer ) a person who travels by air
Frequent fliers receive travel privileges.
product or event
flies noun INSECT
1. plural of fly (INSECT)
flies noun TROUSERS
2. [ plural ] UK FOR fly (TROUSERS)
flight noun JOURNEY
1. [ C ] a journey in an aircraft
I'll never forget my first flight.
How was your flight?
All flights to New York today are delayed because of bad weather.
My flight was cancelled.
flight noun AIRCRAFT
2. [ C ] an aircraft that is making a particular journey
Flight 474 to Buenos Aires is now boarding at gate 9.
flight noun MOVEMENT
3. [ U ] when something flies or moves through the air
an eagle in flight
Suddenly the whole flock of geese took flight (= started flying) .
Modern missiles are so accurate because their flight is controlled by computer.
4. [ C ] a group of birds, aircraft, etc. flying together
a flight of geese/swans
flight noun ESCAPE
5. [ U ] (an act or example of) escape, running away or avoiding something
They lost all their possessions during their flight from the invading army.
6. put sb to flight UK OLD-FASHIONED
to defeat someone and force them to run away
7. take flight
to run away
The burglars took flight when the alarm sounded.
flight noun STAIRS
8. [ C ] a set of steps or stairs, usually between two floors of a building
We live up three flights of stairs.
flight of fancy
an idea which shows a lot of imagination but which is not practical
He was talking about cycling across the US or was that just another flight of
fancy?
the top flight UK
the highest level in a job or sport
The Sheffield Eagles move down to the second division after two seasons in the
top flight.
product or event
flies noun INSECT
flies noun TROUSERS
flight noun JOURNEY
an eagle in flight
flight noun ESCAPE
7. take flight
to run away
flight noun STAIRS
flight of fancy
fancy?
the top flight UK
top flight.
ˈ flight at ˌ tendant noun [ C ]
someone who serves passengers on an aircraft
ˈ flight ˌ deck noun [ C ] AIRCRAFT
1. the part of an aircraft where the pilot sits and where the controls are
ˈ flight ˌ deck noun [ C ] SHIP
2. a flat open surface on a ship from which aircraft take off
flightless adjective
not able to fly
The ostrich is a flightless bird.
ˌ flight lieu ˈ tenant noun [ C ]
an officer in the British air force
ˈ flight ˌ path noun [ C ]
a route followed by an aircraft
ˈ flight re ˌ corder noun [ C ]
a device which records information about an aircraft while it is flying
See also black box
ˈ flight ˌ sergeant noun [ C ]
the next rank above sergeant in the British air force

product or event
flies noun INSECT
flies noun TROUSERS
flight noun JOURNEY
an eagle in flight
flight noun ESCAPE
7. take flight
to run away
flight noun STAIRS
flight of fancy
fancy?
the top flight UK
top flight.
ˈ flight at ˌ tendant noun [ C ]
someone who serves passengers on an aircraft
ˈ flight ˌ deck noun [ C ] AIRCRAFT
1. the part of an aircraft where the pilot sits and where the controls are
ˈ flight ˌ deck noun [ C ] SHIP
2. a flat open surface on a ship from which aircraft take off
flightless adjective
not able to fly
The ostrich is a flightless bird.
ˌ flight lieu ˈ tenant noun [ C ]
an officer in the British air force
ˈ flight ˌ path noun [ C ]
a route followed by an aircraft
ˈ flight re ˌ corder noun [ C ]
a device which records information about an aircraft while it is flying
See also black box
ˈ flight ˌ sergeant noun [ C ]
the next rank above sergeant in the British air force
flighty adjective DISAPPROVING
(especially of a woman) not responsible and likely to change activities, jobs,
lovers, etc. often
a flighty young woman
flightiness noun [ U ]
flim flam noun [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
talk that is confusing and intended to deceive
flimsy adjective THIN
1. very thin, or easily broken or destroyed
You won't be warm enough in that flimsy dress.
We spent the night in a flimsy wooden hut.
a flimsy cardboard box
flimsy adjective DIFFICULT TO BELIEVE
2. A flimsy argument, excuse, etc. is weak and difficult to believe
When I asked him why he was late, he gave me some flimsy excuse about
having car trouble.
flimsily adverb
flimsiness noun [ U ]
flinch verb [ I ]
to make a sudden small movement because of pain or fear
He didn't even flinch when the nurse cleaned the wound.
flinch from sth/doing sth phrasal verb
to avoid doing something that you consider unpleasant or painful
We must not flinch from difficult decisions.
fling verb THROW
1. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] to throw something or someone suddenly
and with a lot of force
He crumpled up the letter and flung it into the fire.
"And you can take your ring back too!" she cried, flinging it down on the table.
INFORMAL Could you fling the paper over here (= give me the paper) ?
fling verb MOVE/DO
2. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] to move or do something quickly and
energetically
She flung her arms around his neck.
The door was flung open by the wind.
Sergei flung himself down on the sofa.
INFORMAL Let me just fling (= quickly put) a few things into my bag, and I'll be
right with you.
INFORMAL They were flung (= quickly put) in prison.
fling verb SAY ANGRILY
3. [ I or T usually + adverb or preposition ] to say something angrily
They were flinging bitter accusations at each other.
[ + speech ] "I don't care what you think", she flung (back) at him.
fling up your hands
to show that you are very shocked or frightened
They flung up their hands in horror at the cost of the trip.
fling yourself at sb phrasal verb [ R ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
to make it very obvious to someone that you want to have a sexual relationship
with them
fling yourself into sth phrasal verb [ R ]
to do something with a lot of enthusiasm
Tom has really flung himself into his work this year.
fling sth on/off phrasal verb [ M ]
to quickly put on/remove something, especially a piece of clothing
We were so hot we flung off our clothes and dived into the swimming pool.
fling sth/sb out phrasal verb [ M ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL
to get rid of something you do not want, or to make someone leave a place when
they do not want to
I think it's about time we flung out these old magazines.
They were flung out of the pub for fighting.
fling noun [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL
a short period of enjoyment
The students are having a final/last fling before they leave university and start
work.
have a fling
to have a short sexual relationship with someone
She's been having a fling with her boss.
flint noun [ C or U ]
1. (a piece of) shiny grey or black stone that is like glass
2. (a piece of) stone or metal used in a musket to make it fire or in a cigarette
lighter to produce a flame
flinty adjective
1. made of or like flint
a flinty material
2. severe and determined
The head teacher has a rather flinty manner.
flip verb [ I or T usually + adv/prep ]
If you flip something, you turn it over quickly one or more times, and if something
flips, it turns over quickly
When one side is done, flip the pancake (over) to cook the other side.
I lost my place in my book when the pages flipped over in the wind.
You turn the television on by flipping (= operating) the switch at the side.
The captains flipped a coin into the air (= made it turn over in the air to see
which side it landed on) to decide which side would bat first.
flip ( your lid) INFORMAL
to become very angry
She'll flip her lid if I'm late again.
flip through sth phrasal verb
flip noun [ C ]
when something turns over quickly or repeatedly
a flip of a coin
The acrobats were doing somersaults and flips (= jumping and turning their
bodies over in the air) .
flip adjective
UK INFORMAL FOR flippant
flip exclamation UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
used when you are slightly annoyed
Oh, flip, I've missed the bus.
ˈ flip ˌ chart noun [ C ]
a board standing on legs with large pieces of paper fixed to the top which can be
turned over
See picture office equipment 1
flip-flop noun SHOE
flip-flop
1. [ C usually plural ] ( US AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH thong ) a type of open shoe,
often made of rubber, with a V-shaped strap which goes between the big toe and the
toe next to it
flip-flop noun CHANGE
2. US INFORMAL when someone completely changes a plan
flip-flop verb [ I ]
US INFORMAL to change a plan completely
flippant adjective ( UK INFORMAL flip )
not serious about a serious subject, in an attempt to be funny or to appear clever
a flippant remark/attitude
It's easy to be flippant, but we have a serious problem to deal with here.
I think she just thought I was being flippant.
flippancy noun [ U ]
flippantly adverb
flipper noun [ C ] PART OF CREATURE
1. one of two parts like arms of particular sea creatures, such as seals and
penguins , used for swimming
flipper noun [ C ] SHOE
2. ( US ALSO fin ) a type of large flat rubber shoe, used for swimming, especially
under water
flipping adjective , adverb UK SLANG
used to emphasize what is being said, or to express anger
It's a flipping nuisance!
You'll do as you're flipping well told!
ˈ flip ˌ side noun [ S ]
1. the opposite, less good, or less popular side of something
We're now starting to see the flip side of the government's economic policy.
2. OLD-FASHIONED the less popular side of a record
flirt verb [ I ]
to behave as if sexually attracted to someone, although not seriously
Christina was flirting with just about every man in the room.
flirt with sth phrasal verb CONSIDER
1. to consider doing something, but not seriously, or to be interested in something
for a short time
I'm flirting with the idea of taking a year off and travelling round the world.
flirt with sth phrasal verb DANGER
2. to intentionally put yourself in a dangerous, risky or difficult situation
Like a lot of young men, he flirts with danger .
flirt noun [ C ]
someone who behaves as if they are sexually attracted to a lot of people
He's a compulsive flirt.
flirty adjective
behaving as if you are sexually attracted to someone, although not seriously
flirty comments
a flirty woman
flirtation noun SEXUAL ATTRACTION
1. [ C or U ] when someone behaves as if they are sexually attracted to another
person, without being seriously interested
It was a harmless flirtation and nothing more.
flirtation noun INTEREST
2. [ S ] a short period of being interested in something or doing something
a brief flirtation with Communism
flirtatious adjective
behaving as if you are sexually attracted to someone, usually not in a serious way
She's very flirtatious.
a flirtatious relationship
flirtatiously adverb
flirtatiousness noun [ U ]
flit verb [ I usually + adv/prep ]
1. to fly or move quickly and lightly
In the fading light we saw bats flitting around/about in the garden.
FIGURATIVE Sara finds it very difficult to settle - she's always flitting from one thing
to another (= changing her activities) .
2. to appear or exist suddenly and for a short time in someone's mind or on their
face
A ghost of a smile flitted across his face.
flit noun [ C ] UK
See do a moonlight flit
float verb NOT SINK
1. [ I ] to stay on the surface of a liquid and not sink
An empty bottle will float.
You can float very easily in/on the Dead Sea because it's so salty.
float verb MOVE
2. [ I or T usually + adverb or preposition ] to (cause to) move easily through, or
along the surface of a liquid, or to (cause to) move easily through air
We spent a lazy afternoon floating down/along the river.
He tossed the bottle into the waves and watched it float out to sea.
The children enjoy floating their boats on the pond in the park.
Fluffy white clouds were floating across the sky.
FIGURATIVE The sound of piano-playing floated out through the open window.
3. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] LITERARY to move smoothly and attractively
She sort of floats around, like a ballet dancer.
4. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to move or act without purpose
Since he lost his job, he's just floated around/about doing nothing.
float verb SUGGEST
5. [ T ] to suggest a plan or an idea to be considered
Ian has floated the idea that we should think about expanding into Europe next
year.
float verb CHANGE VALUE
6. [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED to allow the value of a country's money to change
according to the value of other countries' money
The government has decided to float the pound.
float verb BUSINESS
7. [ T ] to start selling shares in a business or company for the first time
be floating on air MAINLY UK
to be very happy
When he got his exam results he was floating on air.
float sb's boat INFORMAL
to be what somebody likes or is interested in
Motor racing doesn't really float my boat.
float around/about phrasal verb INFORMAL OBJECT
1. You say that an object is floating around when you think it is not far away but
you cannot see exactly where
I can't find my purse, but it must be floating around here somewhere.
float around/about phrasal verb INFORMAL IDEA
2. If an idea or story floats around, it is discussed or repeated by a lot of people
rumours floating around
float noun MONEY
1. [ S ] UK a small sum of money, available before any money is received for
goods sold, which is used for giving customers change (= money)
float noun VEHICLE
2. [ C ] a large vehicle with a flat surface which is decorated and used in festivals
carnival floats
float noun NOT SINK
3. [ C ] a piece of wood or other light material that stays on the surface of water
Fishing nets are often held in position by floats.
float noun DRINK
4. [ C ] a drink with ice cream on the top
I'll have a root beer float, please.
floatation noun UK
[ U ] flotation
floating adjective [ before noun ]
1. not fixed in one position, place or level
The city has a large floating population (= people who move around a lot) .
The bank has offered us a loan with a floating interest rate .
2. SPECIALIZED describes a part of the body that is out of its usual position, or not
connected to another part of the body
a floating rib
ˌ floating ˈ voter noun [ C ] UK
someone who does not always vote for the same political party
ˌ floating ˈ voter noun [ C ] UK
someone who does not always vote for the same political party
floaty adjective
describes material which is very light and moves a lot in the air
floaty dresses
flock noun GROUP
1. [ C + singular or plural verb ] a group of sheep, goats or birds, or a group of
people
a flock of sheep/goats/geese
The shepherd is bringing his flock down from the hills.
A noisy flock of tourists came into the building.
The vicar invited all the members of his flock (= all the people who go to his
church) to attend the special service.
flock noun MATERIAL
2. [ U ] ( US ALSO flocking ) soft material used for filling objects such as cushions ,
or soft material that forms a raised pattern on wallpaper or curtains
flock verb [ I usually + adv/prep ]
to move or come together in large numbers
Hundreds of people flocked to the football match.
[ + to infinitive ] Crowds of people flocked to see the Picasso exhibition.
floe noun [ C ] ( ALSO ice floe )
a large area of ice floating in the sea
flog verb [ T ] PUNISH
1. to beat someone very hard with a whip or a stick, as a punishment
Soldiers used to be flogged for disobedience.
flog verb [ T ] SELL
2. UK INFORMAL to sell, especially quickly or cheaply
He tried to flog his old car, but no one would buy it.
flog yourself to death ( ALSO flog yourself into the ground ) UK INFORMAL
to work too hard
flog sth to death UK INFORMAL
to use, do or say something so often that it is no longer interesting
It's a theme that's been flogged to death.
flog a dead horse UK INFORMAL
to waste effort on something that there is no chance of succeeding at
He keeps trying to get it published but I think he's flogging a dead horse.
flogging noun [ C or U ]
a punishment in which someone is beaten severely with a whip or a stick
flogging noun [ C or U ]
a punishment in which someone is beaten severely with a whip or a stick
flood verb COVER WITH WATER
1. [ I or T ] to cause to fill or become covered with water, especially in a way that
causes problems
Our washing machine broke down yesterday and flooded the kitchen.
The whole town flooded when the river burst its banks.
Several families living by the river were flooded out (= forced to leave their
houses because they became covered with water) .
flood verb ARRIVE OR FILL
2. [ I usually + adverb or preposition T ] to fill or enter a place in large numbers
or amounts
Donations are flooding into the appeal office.
She drew back the curtains and the sunlight came flooding in .
Japanese cars have flooded the market (= a lot of them are on sale) .
He was flooded with (= suddenly felt a lot of) joy when his first child was born.
For Proust, the taste of a madeleine brought childhood memories flooding back
(= made him suddenly remember a lot of things) .
flood sth with sth phrasal verb
If you are flooded with letters, telephone calls, messages, etc., you receive so
many that you cannot deal with them
We were flooded with calls from worried parents.
flood noun WATER
flood
1. [ C or U ] a large amount of water covering an area that is usually dry
After the flood it took weeks for the water level to go down.
The river is in flood (= water has flowed over its banks) again.
2. in floods of tears UK
crying a lot
I found her in floods of tears in the toilets.
3. the Flood
(in the Bible) a flood sent by God that covered the whole Earth as a punishment
flood noun LARGE AMOUNT
4. [ C ] a large amount or number of something
A flood of cheap imports has come into the country.
before the Flood UK HUMOROUS
a very long time ago
flooded adjective WATER
1. covered with water
flooded fields
flooded adjective FULL OF
2. containing a large amount or number of something
The market is flooded with cheap imports.
flooded adjective WATER
1. covered with water
flooded fields
flooded adjective FULL OF
2. containing a large amount or number of something
The market is flooded with cheap imports.
floodgate noun [ C usually plural ]
a gate which can be opened or closed to control a flow of water
open the floodgates
If an action or a decision opens the floodgates, it allows something to happen a
lot or allows many people to do something that was not previously allowed
Officials are worried that allowing these refugees into the country will open the
floodgates to thousands more.
flooding noun [ U ]
when an area is covered with water, especially from rain
Some roads have been closed because of flooding.
floodlight noun [ C usually plural ]
a large powerful electric light used for lighting outside areas, such as sports fields
or buildings, in the dark
This evening's match will be played under floodlights.
See picture floodlight
floodlit adjective
lit by floodlights
a floodlit stadium
ˈ flood ˌ plain noun [ C ]
an area of flat land near a river that is often flooded when the river becomes too
full
ˈ flood ˌ tide noun [ C ]
the regular movement of the sea in towards the coast
Compare ebb tide
floor noun SURFACE
1. [ C usually singular ] the flat surface of a room on which you walk
The floor was partly covered with a dirty old rug.
The bathroom floor needs cleaning.
The children sat playing on the floor.
There's barely enough floor space to fit a bed in this room.
floor noun LEVEL OF BUILDING
2. [ C ] a level of a building
This building has five floors.
Take the elevator to the 51st floor.
We live on the third floor.
a ground floor apartment
floor noun OPEN SPACE
3. [ C usually singular ] a public space for activities such as dancing and having
formal discussions
a dance floor
The new proposal will be discussed on the floor of the House of Commons (= in
Parliament) tomorrow.
He spent several years working on the factory floor (= in the factory) before
becoming a manager.
The chairman said that he would now take questions from the floor (= from the
audience) .
4. have the floor
to have the right to speak
Silence, please, the Prime Minister has the floor.
5. take (to) the floor
to stand and begin to dance
The Prince and Princess were the first to take the floor.
6. take the floor
start speaking
The Chancellor of the Exchequer will take the floor for his Budget speech at 3.00
p.m.
floor noun BOTTOM
7. the floor
the bottom surface of the sea, a forest, a cave, etc
the floor of the ocean/the ocean floor
go through the floor
to fall to very low levels
House prices have gone through the floor this year.
floor verb HIT
1. [ T ] to hit someone and cause them to fall
He was floored with a single punch to the head.
floor verb SURPRISE/CONFUSE
2. [ T often passive ] INFORMAL to surprise or confuse someone so much that they
are unable to think what to say or do next
I didn't know what to say - I was completely floored.
floorboard noun [ C ]
one of the long straight pieces of wood used to make a floor
floorboard noun [ C ]
one of the long straight pieces of wood used to make a floor
ˈ floor ˌ cloth noun [ C ] UK
a piece of cloth for cleaning the floor
flooring noun [ U ]
the material that a floor is made of
wooden/marble/vinyl flooring
ˈ floor ˌ lamp noun [ C ]
US FOR standard lamp
ˈ floor ˌ show noun [ C ]
a set of musical, dance, or comedy acts performed in a restaurant
floozie , floozy noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
a woman who has a lot of sexual relationships, or who wears clothes that attract
sexual attention in a way that is too obvious
flop verb FALL
1. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to fall or drop heavily
Hugh's hair keeps flopping over/into his eyes.
When she gets home from school, she's so tired all she can do is flop down in
front of the television.
flop verb FAIL
2. [ I ] If a book, play, film, etc. flops, it is not successful.
Her first book flopped, but her second became a bestseller.
flop noun FAILURE
1. [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL a failure
The play was a complete/total flop.
flop noun FALL
2. [ S ] when someone or something falls or drops heavily
He fell with a flop on the bed.
flophouse noun [ C ]
US FOR dosshouse
flophouse noun [ C ]
US FOR dosshouse
floppy adjective
soft and not able to keep a firm shape or position
a floppy hat
a dog with big floppy ears
He's got floppy blond hair that's always falling in his eyes.
floppiness noun [ U ]
floppy noun [ C ] ( ALSO floppy disk )
a diskette (= a flat circular device, usually inside a square container, which has a
magnetic covering and is used for storing computer information)
Compare hard disk
flora noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
all the plants of a particular place or from a particular time in history
the flora of the Balearic Islands
Stone Age flora
ˌ flora and ˈ fauna plural noun SPECIALIZED
The flora and fauna of a place are its plants and animals.
floral adjective
made of flowers, or decorated with pictures of flowers
floral curtains/print/wallpaper
a floral display/tribute
floret noun [ C ]
a small part of a vegetable that is shaped like a flower
broccoli/cauliflower florets
florid adjective DECORATED
1. with too much decoration or detail
a florid architectural style
florid prose/rhetoric
florid adjective RED
2. FORMAL (of a person's face) too red, especially in a way that is unhealthy
a florid complexion
floridly adverb
florist noun [ C ]
1. a person who works in a shop which sells cut flowers and plants for inside the
house
2. florist's
a shop which sells cut flowers and plants for inside the house
florist noun [ C ]
1. a person who works in a shop which sells cut flowers and plants for inside the
house
2. florist's
a shop which sells cut flowers and plants for inside the house
floss noun [ U ] TEETH
1. dental floss
floss noun [ U ] THREAD
2. a mass of soft smooth threads especially produced by particular insects and
plants
See also candyfloss
floss verb [ I or T ]
to clean between your teeth using dental floss
It's important to floss every day.
flotation , UK ALSO floatation noun BUSINESS
1. [ C or U ] when a company's shares are sold to the public for the first time
The Glasgow-based company is to launch a stock-market flotation this summer.
flotation , UK ALSO floatation noun FLOAT
2. [ U ] the action of floating
3. flotation chamber/compartment/tank
a container filled with water that you can float in for relaxation
flotilla noun [ C ]
a large group of boats or small ships
See also fleet
flotsam noun [ U ] ( ALSO flotsam and jetsam )
1. pieces of broken wood and other waste materials found on the beach or floating
on the sea
We wandered along the shore, stepping over the flotsam that had washed up in
the night.
2. anything or anyone that is not wanted or not considered to be important or
useful
The homeless sleep in doorways and stations - we step over their bodies like so
much human flotsam.
flounce verb [ I usually + adv/prep ]
to walk with large noticeable movements, especially to attract attention or show
that you are angry
"Right, don't expect any help from me in future!" he said and flounced out of the
room.
flounce noun [ C ]
a wide strip of cloth sewn along the edge of especially a dress or skirt for
decoration
flouncy adjective ( ALSO flounced )
Flouncy clothes are loose and have a lot of material
She was wearing a dreadful pink flouncy skirt.
flouncy adjective ( ALSO flounced )

Flouncy clothes are loose and have a lot of material
She was wearing a dreadful pink flouncy skirt.
flounder verb [ I ]
to experience great difficulties or be completely unable to decide what to do or
say next
He lost the next page of his speech and floundered (about/around) for a few
seconds.
Although his business was a success, his marriage was floundering.
In 1986 Richardson resigned as chairman, leaving the company floundering.
flounder noun [ C or U ]
a flat fish that lives in the sea, or its flesh eaten as food
flour noun [ U ]
powder made from grain, especially wheat, used for making bread, cakes, pasta,
pastry, etc.
See also cornflour
flour verb [ T ]
to put flour on a surface to prevent food from sticking
Grease and flour the tins thoroughly.
flourish verb SUCCEED
1. [ I ] to grow or develop successfully
My tomatoes are flourishing this summer - it must be the warm weather.
Watercolour painting began to flourish in Britain around 1750.
flourish verb WAVE
2. [ T ] to move something in your hand in order to make people look at it
She came in smiling, flourishing her exam results.
flourish noun
with a flourish
If you do something with a flourish, you do it with one big, noticeable movement
The waiter handed me the menu with a flourish.
He took off his hat with a flourish.
flourishing adjective
growing or developing successfully
There's a flourishing trade in second-hand video machines.
flourishing adjective
growing or developing successfully
There's a flourishing trade in second-hand video machines.
floury adjective
1. covered in flour, or tasting or feeling like flour
She wiped her floury hands on a cloth.
2. UK describes potatoes that are dry and break into small pieces when they are
cooked
flout verb [ T ]
to intentionally not obey a rule, law, or custom
Many motorcyclists flout the law by not wearing helmets.
The orchestra decided to flout convention/tradition , and wear their everyday
clothes for the concert.
flow verb [ I ] MOVE
1. (especially of liquids, gases or electricity) to move in one direction, especially
continuously and easily
Lava from the volcano was flowing down the hillside.
Many short rivers flow into the Pacific Ocean.
The river flows through three counties before flowing into the sea just south of
here.
With fewer cars on the roads, traffic is flowing (= moving forward) more
smoothly than usual.
flow verb [ I ] CONTINUE
2. to continue to arrive or be produced
Please keep the money flowing in !
Offers of help are flowing into the disaster area from all over the country.
My thoughts flow more easily if I work on a word processor.
By eleven o'clock, the wine was starting to flow.
After they'd all had a drink or two, the conversation began to flow.
flow verb [ I ] HANG DOWN
3. to hang down loosely and often attractively
Her long red hair flowed down over her shoulders.
flow noun MOVEMENT
1. [ C usually singular ] the movement of something in one direction
the flow of a river
the flow of traffic
the flow of blood
flow noun CONTINUOUS NUMBER
2. [ C usually singular ] a regular and quite large number of something
There's been a steady flow of visitors.
3. [ S ] when something is produced or moved continuously
the flow of ideas/information
go against the flow
to do or say the opposite of what most people are doing or saying
With this new book, she is going against the flow.
go with the flow INFORMAL
to do what other people are doing or to agree with other people because it is the
easiest thing to do
Just relax and go with the flow!
flowchart noun [ C ] ( ALSO flow diagram )
a diagram (= simple plan) which shows the stages of a process
flowchart noun [ C ] ( ALSO flow diagram )

a diagram (= simple plan) which shows the stages of a process
flower noun [ C ]
the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured with a pleasant smell, or the
type of plant that produces these
wild flowers
to pick flowers
a bunch/bouquet of flowers
cut/dried flowers
See pictures flowers 1 , flowers 2
the flower of sth LITERARY
the best of a particular group or type
The flower of the nation's youth were killed in the war.
in flower
describes a plant that has open flowers
Our roses are usually in flower from April to November.
in the flower of sb's youth LITERARY
when someone was young and in the best and most active period of life
He died in the very flower of his youth.
flower verb [ I ] DEVELOP
1. LITERARY to develop completely and become obvious
Her talent flowered during her later years.
flower verb [ I ] PLANT
2. to produce flowers
When does this plant flower?
ˈ flower ar ˌ ranging noun [ U ]
the skill or activity of arranging flowers in an attractive or artistic way
flower-arranging classes
flowerbed noun [ C ]
a part of a garden where flowers are planted
ˈ flower ˌ child noun [ C ]
a hippie
flowerpot noun [ C ]
a container usually made of clay or plastic in which a plant is grown
flowerpot noun [ C ]
a container usually made of clay or plastic in which a plant is grown
ˈ flower ˌ power noun [ U ]
the ideas and beliefs of some young people in the 1960s and 1970s who opposed
war and encouraged people to love each other
flowery adjective FLOWERS
1. ( ALSO flowered ) decorated with pictures of flowers
a flowery material/dress
flowery curtains/wallpaper
flowery adjective WORDS
2. DISAPPROVING If a speech or writing style is flowery, it uses too many
complicated words or phrases in an attempt to sound skilful
a flowery description/speech
flowing adjective MOVING
1. moving in one direction, especially continuously and easily
a fast- flowing river
flowing adjective SMOOTH AND CONTINUOUS
2. produced in a smooth, continuous or relaxed style
flowing movements/lines
I thought I recognized your flowing script.
flowing adjective HANGING DOWN
3. describes hair and clothes that are long and hang down loosely
I remember her as a young girl with flowing black hair.
Everyone on stage was dressed in flowing white robes .
flown
PAST PARTICIPLE OF fly
fl oz
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR fluid ounce
flu noun [ U ] ( FORMAL influenza )
an infectious illness which is like a very bad cold, but which causes a fever
a flu virus
to catch/get/have (the) flu
fluctuate verb [ I ]
to change, especially continuously and between one level or thing and another
Vegetable prices fluctuate according to the season.
Her wages fluctuate between £150 and £200 a week.
Her weight fluctuates wildly .
fluctuating prices
fluctuation noun [ C or U ]
fluctuations in share prices/the exchange rate/temperature
fluctuating prices
flue noun [ C ]
a pipe which leads from a fire or heater to the outside of a building, taking smoke,
gases or hot air away
fluent adjective
1. When a person is fluent, they can speak a language easily, well and quickly
She's fluent in French.
He's a fluent Russian speaker.
2. When a language is fluent, it is spoken easily and without many pauses
He speaks fluent Chinese.
fluency noun [ U ]
One of the requirements of the job is fluency in two or more African languages.
fluently adverb
I'd like to speak English fluently.
fluff noun [ U ] SOFT MASS
1. small loose bits of wool or other soft material, or the down (= soft new hairs)
on a young animal
He brushed the fluff off his coat.
fluff noun [ U ] ENTERTAINMENT
2. US entertainment that is not serious or valuable
fluff verb [ T ] ( US ALSO flub ) INFORMAL
to fail something or do it badly
I fluffed my driving test three times before I finally got it.
All the time I was acting with him, I never once heard him fluff his lines (= say
something wrong when acting) .
fluff sth up phrasal verb
to make something appear bigger or full of air by hitting or shaking it
I'll just fluff up your pillows for you.
fluffy adjective
1. soft and woolly or like fur
fluffy toys
2. light and full of air
Beat the eggs and sugar together until they are pale and fluffy.
fluffiness noun [ U ]
fluctuating prices
flue noun [ C ]
fluent adjective
fluency noun [ U ]
fluently adverb
on a young animal
fluffy adjective
fluffy toys
fluid noun [ C or U ]
a substance which flows and is not solid
If you have a fever you should drink plenty of fluid(s).
The virus is contracted through exchange of bodily fluids.
fluid adjective MOVEMENT
1. smooth and continuous
fluid movements
fluid adjective LIKELY TO CHANGE
2. If situations, ideas or plans are fluid, they are not fixed and are likely to
change, often repeatedly and unexpectedly
The military situation is still very fluid.
fluidity noun [ U ] CHANGE
1. the quality of being likely to change, repeatedly and unexpectedly
the fluidity of the political situation
fluidity noun [ U ] MOVEMENT
2. FORMAL the quality of being smooth and continuous
Durante dances with fluidity and grace.
fluidity noun [ U ] LIQUID
3. (of a substance) the quality of being not solid and able to flow
ˌ fluid ˈ ounce noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION fl oz ) OLD-FASHIONED
a measurement of liquid equal to UK 0.024 or US 0.030 of a litre
fluctuating prices
flue noun [ C ]
fluent adjective
fluency noun [ U ]
fluently adverb
on a young animal
fluffy adjective
fluffy toys
fluid movements
fluke noun [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL
something good that has happened that is the result of chance instead of skill or
planning
The first goal was just a fluke.
flukey , fluky adjective
flume noun [ C ]
1. a narrow channel made for carrying water, for example to factories that
produce electricity
2. a structure for people to slide down at a swimming pool or water park , which
is shaped like a large tube and has water flowing through it
flummox verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do
I have to say that last question flummoxed me.
flummoxed adjective
He looked completely flummoxed.
flung
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF fling
flunk verb [ T ] MAINLY US INFORMAL
to fail an examination or course of study
I flunked my second year exams and was lucky not to be thrown out of college.
flunk out phrasal verb US INFORMAL
to have to leave school or college because your work is not good enough
Dan won't be in college next year - he flunked out.
flunkey noun [ C ] ( ALSO flunky ) OLD-FASHIONED
a male servant wearing a uniform
fluorescent adjective LIGHT
1. Fluorescent lights are very bright, tube-shaped electric lights, often used in
offices
fluorescent lighting
fluorescent adjective COLOUR
2. Fluorescent colours are very bright and can be seen in the dark
fluorescent green
fluorescence noun [ U ]
fluctuating prices
flue noun [ C ]
fluent adjective
fluency noun [ U ]
fluently adverb
on a young animal
fluffy adjective
fluffy toys
fluid movements
fluke noun [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL
something good that has happened that is the result of chance instead of skill or
planning
The first goal was just a fluke.
flukey , fluky adjective
flume noun [ C ]
1. a narrow channel made for carrying water, for example to factories that
produce electricity
2. a structure for people to slide down at a swimming pool or water park , which
is shaped like a large tube and has water flowing through it
flummox verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do
I have to say that last question flummoxed me.
flummoxed adjective
He looked completely flummoxed.
flung
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF fling
flunk verb [ T ] MAINLY US INFORMAL
to fail an examination or course of study
I flunked my second year exams and was lucky not to be thrown out of college.
flunk out phrasal verb US INFORMAL
to have to leave school or college because your work is not good enough
Dan won't be in college next year - he flunked out.
flunkey noun [ C ] ( ALSO flunky ) OLD-FASHIONED
a male servant wearing a uniform
fluorescent adjective LIGHT
1. Fluorescent lights are very bright, tube-shaped electric lights, often used in
offices
fluorescent lighting
fluorescent adjective COLOUR
2. Fluorescent colours are very bright and can be seen in the dark
fluorescent green
fluorescence noun [ U ]
fluoridate verb [ T ]
to add fluoride to water
fluoridation noun [ U ]
fluoride noun [ U ]
a chemical substance sometimes added to water or toothpaste (= substance for
cleaning teeth) in order to help keep teeth healthy
fluorine noun [ U ]
a poisonous pale yellow gas
fluorocarbon noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a chemical containing fluorine and carbon, with various industrial uses
See also CFC
fluorocarbon noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

a chemical containing fluorine and carbon, with various industrial uses
See also CFC
flurry noun SNOW
1. [ C ] a sudden light fall of snow, blown in different directions by the wind
There may be the odd flurry of snow over the hills.
flurry noun ACTIVITY
2. [ C usually singular ] a sudden, short period of activity, excitement or interest
The prince's words on marriage have prompted a flurry of speculation in the press
this week.
a flurry of activity
flush verb BECOME RED
1. [ I ] When you flush, you become red in the face, especially as a result of
strong emotions, heat or alcohol
She flushed with pleasure as she accepted the prize.
The champagne had caused his face to flush.
flush verb TOILET
2. [ I or T ] If you flush a toilet, or if a toilet flushes, its contents empty and it fills
with water again
My children never flush the loo/toilet after them.
I can't get the toilet to flush.
3. flush sth down the toilet
to get rid of something by putting it in the toilet and operating the toilet
I tend to flush old medicines down the toilet.
flush sb/sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to force a person or animal to leave a place where they are hiding
Planes bombed the guerrilla positions yesterday in an attempt to flush out snipers
from underground tunnels.
We used a dog to flush the rabbits out.
flush sb out phrasal verb [ M ]
to do something in order to discover people who have been dishonest
By cross-checking claims, we will flush out the fraudsters.
flush sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to remove something using a sudden flow of water
Drink a lot of water to flush the toxins out of your system.
flush adjective LEVEL
1. at the same level as another surface
I want the light fittings to be flush with the ceiling.
flush adjective RICH
2. [ after verb ] INFORMAL having a lot of money
I've just been paid so I'm feeling flush.
flush noun RED COLOUR
1. [ C ] a red colour that appears on your face or other skin because you are
embarrassed, hot, etc.
A faint pink flush coloured her cheeks.
See also hot flush
flush noun SUDDEN FEELING
2. a flush of anger/excitement/pleasure, etc.
a sudden strong feeling of anger, excitement, pleasure, etc.
flush noun TOILET
3. [ C ] when the contents of a toilet empties and it fills with water
4. the handle or button which you push to make a toilet empty and fill with water
He pressed the flush with his hand.
flush noun CARD GAMES
5. [ C ] a number of playing cards held by one player which are all from the same
suit
flushed adjective
red in the face
You look a bit flushed - are you hot?
flushed cheeks
flushed with anger/embarrassment
flushed with success
feeling excited and confident after achieving something
Flushed with success after their surprise win against Italy, Belgium are preparing
for Saturday's game against Spain.
flushed adjective
red in the face
You look a bit flushed - are you hot?
flushed cheeks
flushed with anger/embarrassment
flushed with success
feeling excited and confident after achieving something
Flushed with success after their surprise win against Italy, Belgium are preparing
for Saturday's game against Spain.
fluster verb [ T ]
to make someone upset and confused, especially when they are trying to do
something
fluster noun [ S ]
an upset and confused state
The important thing when you're cooking for a lot of people is not to get in a
fluster.
flustered adjective
upset and confused
She seemed a bit flustered.
If I look flustered it's because I'm trying to do about twenty things at once.
flute noun [ C ]
a tube-shaped musical instrument with a hole that you blow across at one end
while holding the tube out horizontally to one side of you
See picture music (woodwind)
fluted adjective
If an object, especially a round object, is fluted, it is wavy around the edge
a flan dish with fluted edges
fluted columns/pillars
flutist noun [ C ]
US FOR flautist
flutter verb MOVE
1. [ I or T ] to make a series of quick delicate movements up and down or from
side to side, or to cause something to do this
Brightly coloured flags were fluttering in the breeze.
Leaves fluttered down onto the path.
Butterflies fluttered about in the sunshine.
A white bird poised on a wire and fluttered its wings.
flutter verb HEART/STOMACH
2. [ I ] If your heart or stomach flutters, you feel slightly uncomfortable because
you are excited or nervous
Every time I think about my exams my stomach flutters!
flutter your eyelashes HUMOROUS
If a woman flutters her eyelashes at a man, she uses her charm and beauty to
persuade him to do something for her
Go and flutter your eyelashes at the barman, Janet, and see if you can get him to
serve us.
make your heart flutter
If someone makes your heart flutter, you find them very physically attractive and
you feel excited when you see or talk to them
James has been making hearts flutter ever since he joined the company.
flutter noun EXCITEMENT
1. [ C usually singular ] a short period of excited activity
The publication of her first novel last autumn caused a flutter of excitement .
flutter noun MONEY
2. [ C usually singular ] UK INFORMAL a small bet (= money risked) , especially on a
horse race
Aunty Paula likes to have a bit of a flutter on the horses.
flutter noun MOVEMENT
3. [ S ] a quick up-and-down movement
all of a flutter
in a state of nervous excitement
Peter was coming round for dinner and I was all of a flutter.
in a flutter
in a confused and excited state
When economic statistics are first published they grab headlines and put markets
in a flutter.
fluvial adjective SPECIALIZED
of a river
a fluvial basin
fluvial ice
fluvial adjective SPECIALIZED
of a river
a fluvial basin
fluvial ice
flux noun [ U ] CHANGE
1. continuous change
Our plans are in a state of flux at the moment.
flux noun [ U ] SUBSTANCE
2. SPECIALIZED a substance added to a metal to make it easier to solder (= join by
melting) to another metal
fly verb TRAVEL
1. [ I ] When a bird, insect or aircraft flies, it moves through the air
The poor bird couldn't fly because it had a broken wing.
As soon as it saw us, the bird flew away/off .
2. [ I or T ] to travel by aircraft, or to go somewhere or cross something in an
aircraft
We flew to Paris.
We fly from/out from/out of Heathrow, but fly back (in)to Gatwick.
We are flying at a height of 9 000 metres.
She has to fly thousands of miles every year for her job.
Who was the first person to fly (across) the Atlantic?
3. [ T ] to use a particular company to travel by aircraft
I usually fly Lufthansa/Japan Airlines/El Al.
4. [ T ] to transport people or goods by aircraft
The restaurant flies its fish in daily from Scotland.
We will be flying 100 badly wounded civilians out of the battle zone tonight.
5. [ I or T ] to control an aircraft
I learned to fly when I was in Australia.
fly verb MOVE QUICKLY
6. [ I ] to move or go quickly
With the explosion, glass flew across the room.
Cathy flew by/past me in the corridor.
My holiday seems to have flown (by) (= passed very quickly) this year.
The door/window suddenly flew open .
INFORMAL Anyway, I must fly (= leave quickly) - I didn't realize how late it was!
fly verb WAVE
7. [ I or T ] to wave or move about in the air while being fixed at one end
The ship was flying the Spanish flag.
The flag was flying at half-mast (= lowered to a point half way down the pole) to
mark the death of the President.
There isn't really enough wind to fly a kite today.
be flying high
1. If a person or a company is flying high, they are very successful
The company was flying high as a maker of personal computers.
2. US INFORMAL to be very excited or happy, often because of the effect of drugs
The guy was on drugs - flying high and scaring everyone around him.
When the winter Olympics came to Canada, the whole country was flying high.
fly in the face of sth
not to obey something, or not to act in a way that agrees with something
This is an argument that seems to fly in the face of common sense .
fly into a rage ( UK ALSO fly into a temper/fury )
to suddenly become very angry
I asked to speak to her boss and she just flew into a rage.
fly off the handle
to react in a very angry way to something that someone says or does
He's extremely irritable - he flies off the handle at the slightest thing.
go fly a kite MAINLY US INFORMAL
used to tell someone who is being annoying to go away
go/send sth/sb flying INFORMAL
to fall, or to cause something or someone to fall or move through the air,
suddenly and by accident
I tripped going up the stairs and I/my books went flying.
with flying colours
If you do something such as pass an examination with flying colours, you do it
very successfully.
fly about/around phrasal verb INFORMAL
If ideas, remarks, or accusations are flying about/around, they are passed quickly
from one person to another and cause excitement
All kinds of rumours are flying around about the school closing.
fly at sb/sth phrasal verb
to attack another person or animal suddenly
He flew at his brother like a mad thing.
fly noun [ C ] INSECT
fly
1. a small insect with two wings
fly noun [ C ] TROUSERS
2. ( UK ALSO flies ) the opening at the front of a pair of trousers
Hey Chris, your fly's undone!
See picture clothes 6 (parts of)
fly noun [ C ] FISHING
3. a hook (= curved piece of wire) with coloured threads fastened to it, fixed to
the end of a fishing line to attract fish
fly noun [ C ] TENT
4. MAINLY US FOR flysheet
drop like flies INFORMAL
1. If people are dropping like flies they are dying or falling down in large numbers
The heat was overwhelming and people were dropping like flies.
2. to stop doing an activity in large numbers
There used to be over twenty of us in our aerobics class but they're dropping like
flies.
fly in the ointment INFORMAL
a single thing or person that is spoiling a situation which could have been very
positive or enjoyable
I'm looking forward to Sunday, the only fly in the ointment being the fact that I
shall have to sit next to my mother-in-law.
fly on the wall
If you say that you would like to be a fly on the wall on an occasion, you mean
that you would like to hear what will be said or see what will happen while not being
noticed
I'd love to be a fly on the wall when those two get home!
See also fly-on-the-wall
no flies on sb
If you say there are no flies on someone, you mean that they cannot easily be
deceived.
wouldn't harm/hurt a fly INFORMAL
If you say that someone wouldn't harm/hurt a fly, you mean they are gentle and
would not do anything to injure or offend anyone.
flyaway adjective
describes hair that is soft, light and difficult to keep in place
flyaway adjective
describes hair that is soft, light and difficult to keep in place
flyby noun [ C ]
1. a flight, especially in a spacecraft, past a particular place
The pictures were taken during the spacecraft's 25-minute flyby of the asteroid.
2. US FOR flypast
fly-by-night adjective [ before noun ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
Fly-by-night companies or business people cannot be trusted because they are
likely to get into debt and close down the business to avoid paying the debts or
satisfying agreements
a fly-by-night operator/organization
fly-by-wire adjective
If an aircraft or the equipment for controlling it is fly-by-wire, it is controlled by
computers.
flycatcher noun [ C ]
a small bird which catches insects in the air
fly-drive holiday noun [ C ] UK ( US fly-drive vacation )
an organized holiday which includes your air ticket and the use of a car
flyer noun [ C ]
See flier
fly-fishing noun [ U ]
when you try to catch fish using a fly to attract the fish
flying noun [ U ]
travel by air
Annette's scared of flying.
ˈ flying ˌ boat noun [ C ]
an aircraft shaped like a boat at the bottom, and able to land on water
ˌ flying ˈ buttress noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an arch built against a wall, especially of a church, to support its weight
ˌ flying ˈ buttress noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an arch built against a wall, especially of a church, to support its weight
ˌ flying ˈ doctor noun [ C ]
a doctor, usually in Australia, who travels by air to see ill people who live a long
way from a city
ˌ flying ˈ fish noun [ C ]
a tropical fish that can jump above the surface of the water using its very large
fins
ˌ flying ˈ fox noun [ C ]
a large bat (= small animal like a mouse with wings) that eats fruit
ˌ flying ˈ picket noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
a worker who travels to support workers who are on strike at another place of
work
ˌ flying ˈ saucer noun [ C ]
OLD-FASHIONED FOR UFO
ˈ flying ˌ squad noun [ C ]
a small group of police officers which is trained to act quickly, especially when
there is a serious crime
ˌ flying ˈ start noun [ C usually singular ]
in a race, when one competitor starts more quickly than the others
FIGURATIVE She's got off to a flying start (= has begun very well) in her new job.
ˌ flying ˈ visit noun [ C usually singular ]
a very short visit
flyleaf noun [ C ]
an empty page at the beginning or end of a book next to the cover
fly-on-the-wall adjective [ before noun ] UK
describes a television programme in which the people involved behave normally,
as if they are not being filmed
a fly-on-the-wall documentary
fly-on-the-wall adjective [ before noun ] UK
describes a television programme in which the people involved behave normally,
as if they are not being filmed
a fly-on-the-wall documentary
flyover noun BRIDGE
1. [ C ] UK ( US overpass ) a bridge that carries a road or railway over another
road
flyover noun AIRCRAFT
2. [ C usually singular ] US FOR flypast
flypaper noun [ C or U ]
a long strip of sticky paper which you hang in a room to catch flies
flypast noun [ C usually singular ] UK ( US flyby/flyover )
when a group of aircraft flies in a special pattern as a part of a ceremony
flyposting noun [ U ] UK
illegally sticking a political or other poster (= notice) on a public wall, fence, etc.
flyposter noun [ C ]
a person who goes flyposting or the poster (= notice) they put up
Flyposters will be prosecuted.
flysheet noun [ C ] UK ( MAINLY US fly )
an extra sheet of canvas (= strong cloth) stretched over the outside of a tent to
keep the rain out
fly-tipping noun [ U ]
illegally leaving things that you do not want next to a road, in fields, in rivers, etc.
fly-tip verb [ T ]
flyweight noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a boxer who is in the lightest weight group, weighing 51 kilograms or less
flywheel noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a heavy wheel in a machine which helps the machine to work at a regular speed
flywheel noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a heavy wheel in a machine which helps the machine to work at a regular speed
FM noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR frequency modulation: a radio system for broadcasting which
produces a very clear sound
foal noun [ C ]
foal
a young horse
in foal
(of a female horse) pregnant
Two of the mares are in foal.
foal verb [ I ]
If a mare (= a female horse) foals, she gives birth to a baby horse.
foam noun [ U ]
1. a mass of very small bubbles formed on the surface of a liquid
2. a substance like cream which is filled with bubbles of air
shaving foam
3. a soft material used to fill furniture and other objects
foam verb [ I ]
1. to produce small bubbles
2. foam at the mouth
If a person or an animal foams at the mouth, they have bubbles coming out of
their mouth as a result of a disease.
be foaming at the mouth
to be extremely angry
The Almeida theatre's recent staging of the opera had critics foaming at the
mouth.
ˌ foam ˈ rubber noun [ U ]
soft rubber with air bubbles in it
ˌ foam ˈ rubber noun [ U ]
soft rubber with air bubbles in it
foamy adjective
made of or producing a mass of very small bubbles
foamy beer
foamy shampoo
fob noun [ C ]
a piece of leather or other material to which a group of keys is fastened, or a
chain or piece of material used, especially in the past, to fasten a watch to a man's
waistcoat
a key fob
a fob watch
fob verb
fob sb off phrasal verb [ M ] ( ALSO fob sth off on sb ) UK
to persuade someone to accept something that is of a low quality or different to
what he or she really wanted
Well, he wants the report ready by tomorrow but I can always fob him off with
some excuse.
focal adjective
central and important
The focal figure of the film is Annette Corley, a dancer who has boyfriend
troubles.
ˌ focal ˈ length noun [ C usually singular ] SPECIALIZED
the distance between a point where waves of light meet and the centre of a lens
ˌ focal ˈ point noun INTEREST
1. [ C usually singular ] the thing that everyone looks at or is interested in
The television is usually the focal point of the living room.
ˌ focal ˈ point noun SCIENCE
2. [ C ] SPECIALIZED (in physics) focus
focus noun [ C ] CENTRE
1. the main or central point of something, especially of attention or interest
I think Dave likes to be the focus of attention .
The main focus of interest at the fashion show was Christian Lacroix's
outrageous evening wear.
The media focus on politicians' private lives inevitably switches the attention away
from the real issues.
focus noun [ C ] SCIENCE
2. (in physics) the point where waves of light or sound which are moving towards
each other meet
the focus of a lens
3. be in/out of focus
describes a photograph which is clear/not clear
focus verb
1. [ T ] If you focus a device such as a camera or microscope , you move a device
on the lens so that you can see a clear picture.
2. [ I or T ] If you focus your eyes, or if your eyes focus, you try to look directly
at an object so that you can see it more clearly
When they first took the bandages off, she/her eyes couldn't focus properly (=
she couldn't see clearly) .
focus (sth) on/upon sb/sth phrasal verb
to give a lot of attention to one particular person, subject or thing
Tonight's programme focuses on the way that homelessness affects the young.
When the kitchen is finished I'm going to focus my attention on the garden and
get that sorted out.
focus noun [ C ] CENTRE

1. the main or central point of something, especially of attention or interest
I think Dave likes to be the focus of attention .
The main focus of interest at the fashion show was Christian Lacroix's
outrageous evening wear.
The media focus on politicians' private lives inevitably switches the attention away
from the real issues.
focus noun [ C ] SCIENCE
2. (in physics) the point where waves of light or sound which are moving towards
each other meet
the focus of a lens
3. be in/out of focus
describes a photograph which is clear/not clear
focus verb
1. [ T ] If you focus a device such as a camera or microscope , you move a device
on the lens so that you can see a clear picture.
2. [ I or T ] If you focus your eyes, or if your eyes focus, you try to look directly
at an object so that you can see it more clearly
When they first took the bandages off, she/her eyes couldn't focus properly (=
she couldn't see clearly) .
focus (sth) on/upon sb/sth phrasal verb
to give a lot of attention to one particular person, subject or thing
Tonight's programme focuses on the way that homelessness affects the young.
When the kitchen is finished I'm going to focus my attention on the garden and
get that sorted out.
focused adjective ( ALSO focussed ) GIVING ATTENTION
1. giving a lot of attention to one particular thing
the need for more focused research
focused adjective ( ALSO focussed ) PHOTOGRAPH
2. clear
a focused image
ˈ focus ˌ group noun [ C + sing/pl verb ]
a group of people who have been brought together to discuss a particular subject
in order to solve a problem or suggest ideas
fodder noun [ U ] ANIMAL FOOD
1. food that is given to cows, horses and other farm animals
fodder noun [ U ] USEFUL PEOPLE/THINGS
2. people or things that are useful for the stated purpose
Politicians are always good fodder for comedians (= they make jokes about them)
.
See cannon fodder
foe noun [ C ] LITERARY
an enemy
The two countries have united against their common foe.
They were bitter foes for many years.
Foes of the government will be delighting in its current difficulties.
FoE noun [ U + sing/pl verb ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Friends of the Earth
foetid adjective
fetid
foetus , US ALSO fetus noun [ C ]
a young human being or animal before birth, after the organs have started to
develop
foetal , US ALSO fetal adjective
foetal
foetal abnormalities
foetal position
fog noun WEATHER
1. [ C or U ] a weather condition in which very small drops of water come
together to form a thick cloud close to the land or sea, making it difficult to see
Thick/Heavy/Dense fog has made driving conditions dangerous.
Mists, freezing fogs and snow are common in this area.
It took several hours for the fog to lift .
fog noun CONFUSION
2. [ S ] INFORMAL a confused or uncertain state, usually mentally or emotionally
I went home in a fog of disbelief.
fog verb [ T ]
to make something or someone confused or uncertain
Alcohol fogs the brain.
The minister's speech had merely fogged the issue.
fog up phrasal verb
If a glass surface fogs up, a thin layer of liquid develops on it so that it is difficult
to see through
I couldn't see a thing because my glasses had fogged up.
fog noun WEATHER

1. [ C or U ] a weather condition in which very small drops of water come
together to form a thick cloud close to the land or sea, making it difficult to see
Thick/Heavy/Dense fog has made driving conditions dangerous.
Mists, freezing fogs and snow are common in this area.
It took several hours for the fog to lift .
fog noun CONFUSION
2. [ S ] INFORMAL a confused or uncertain state, usually mentally or emotionally
I went home in a fog of disbelief.
fog verb [ T ]
to make something or someone confused or uncertain
Alcohol fogs the brain.
The minister's speech had merely fogged the issue.
fog up phrasal verb
If a glass surface fogs up, a thin layer of liquid develops on it so that it is difficult
to see through
I couldn't see a thing because my glasses had fogged up.
ˈ fog ˌ bank noun [ C usually singular ]
a thick cloud of fog, especially at sea
fogbound adjective
prevented from operating as usual because of fog
Their flight was cancelled because the airport was fogbound.
fogey , fogy noun [ C ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a person who is old-fashioned and likes traditional ways of doing things
The party is run by a bunch of old fogies who resist progress.
When you're 16, anyone over 25 is an old fogey.
foggy adjective
with fog
a cold, foggy day
not have the foggiest (idea) INFORMAL
to not know or understand something at all
I hadn't the foggiest idea what he was talking about.
foghorn noun [ C ]
a horn that makes a very loud sound to warn ships that they are close to land or
other ships
He has a voice like a foghorn (= an unpleasantly loud voice) .
foible noun [ C usually plural ]
a strange habit or characteristic that is seen as not important and not harming
anyone
We all have our little foibles.
foil noun METAL SHEET
1. [ U ] a very thin sheet of metal, especially used to wrap food in to keep it fresh
tin/silver foil
UK aluminium/ US aluminum foil
foil noun COMPARISON
2. [ C ] something or someone that makes another's good or bad qualities more
noticeable
The older, cynical character in the play is the perfect foil for the innocent William.
foil noun SWORD
3. [ C ] a thin light sword used in the sport of fencing
foil verb [ T ]
to prevent someone or something from being successful
The prisoners' attempt to escape was foiled at the last minute when police
received a tip-off.
foist verb
foist sth on/upon sb phrasal verb
to force someone to have or experience something they do not want
I try not to foist my values on the children but it's hard.
foist verb
fold verb BEND
1. [ I or T ] to bend something, especially paper or cloth, so that one part of it lies
on the other part, or to be able to be bent in this way
I folded the letter (in half) and put it in an envelope.
He had a neatly folded handkerchief in his jacket pocket.
Will you help me to fold ( up ) the sheets?
2. [ T ] to wrap
She folded her baby in a blanket.
He folded his arms around her.
3. fold your arms
to bring your arms close to your chest and hold them together
4. [ T ] to move a part of your body into a position where it is close to your body
She sat with her legs folded under her.
fold verb FAIL
5. [ I ] (of a business) to close because of failure
Many small businesses fold within the first year.
fold sth in/fold sth into something phrasal verb
(in cooking) to mix a substance into another substance by turning it gently with a
spoon
Fold the egg whites into the cake mixture.
Fold in the flour.
fold noun [ C ] BEND
1. a line or mark where paper, cloth, etc. was or is folded
Make a fold across the centre of the card.
2. SPECIALIZED a bend in a layer of rock under the Earth's surface caused by
movement there
fold noun [ C ] SHELTER
3. a small area of a field surrounded by a fence where sheep can be put for
shelter for the night
4. the fold
your home or an organization where you feel you belong
Her children are all away at college now, but they always return to the fold in the
holidays.
-fold suffix
having the stated number of parts, or multiplied by the stated number
threefold
fourfold
The problems are twofold - firstly, economic, and secondly, political.
In the last 50 years, there has been a 33-fold increase in the amount of pesticide
used in farming.
foist verb
fold verb BEND
1. [ I or T ] to bend something, especially paper or cloth, so that one part of it lies
on the other part, or to be able to be bent in this way
I folded the letter (in half) and put it in an envelope.
He had a neatly folded handkerchief in his jacket pocket.
Will you help me to fold ( up ) the sheets?
2. [ T ] to wrap
She folded her baby in a blanket.
He folded his arms around her.
3. fold your arms
to bring your arms close to your chest and hold them together
4. [ T ] to move a part of your body into a position where it is close to your body
She sat with her legs folded under her.
fold verb FAIL
5. [ I ] (of a business) to close because of failure
Many small businesses fold within the first year.
fold sth in/fold sth into something phrasal verb
(in cooking) to mix a substance into another substance by turning it gently with a
spoon
Fold the egg whites into the cake mixture.
Fold in the flour.
fold noun [ C ] BEND
1. a line or mark where paper, cloth, etc. was or is folded
Make a fold across the centre of the card.
2. SPECIALIZED a bend in a layer of rock under the Earth's surface caused by
movement there
fold noun [ C ] SHELTER
3. a small area of a field surrounded by a fence where sheep can be put for
shelter for the night
4. the fold
your home or an organization where you feel you belong
Her children are all away at college now, but they always return to the fold in the
holidays.
-fold suffix
having the stated number of parts, or multiplied by the stated number
threefold
fourfold
The problems are twofold - firstly, economic, and secondly, political.
In the last 50 years, there has been a 33-fold increase in the amount of pesticide
used in farming.
foldaway adjective
able to be folded away out of sight
a foldaway bed
folder noun [ C ] FOR PAPERS
1. a piece of plastic or cardboard folded down the middle and used for keeping
loose papers in
folder noun [ C ] COMPUTER
2. a place on a computer where files or programs can be stored
folding adjective [ before noun ]
1. describes a chair, bed, bicycle, etc. that can be folded into a smaller size to
make it easier to store or carry
2. describes a door made of several parts joined together which can be folded
against each other when the door is opened
foliage noun [ U ]
the leaves of a plant or tree, or leaves on the stems or branches on which they
are growing
The dense foliage overhead almost blocked out the sun.
folic acid noun [ U ]
a vitamin found in the leaves of plants and in liver , and which is needed by the
body for the production of red blood cells
folio noun [ C ]
1. a book made of paper of a large size, especially one of the earliest books
printed in Europe
2. a single sheet of paper from a book
folk noun PEOPLE
1. [ plural ] ( MAINLY US folks ) people, especially those of a particular group or
type
old folk
Ordinary folk can't afford cars like that.
2. folks
a. [ as form of address ] INFORMAL used when speaking informally to a group of
people
All right, folks, dinner's ready!
b. MAINLY US someone's parents
I'm going home to see my folks.
folk noun MUSIC
3. [ U ] modern music and songs that are written in a style similar to that of
traditional music
I enjoy listening to folk (music/songs) .
folk singers
a folk club/festival
folk adjective [ before noun ]
1. traditional to or typical of a particular group or country, especially one where
people mainly live in the countryside, and usually passed on from parents to their
children over a long period of time
folk culture
2. describes art that expresses something about the lives and feelings of ordinary
people in a particular group or country, especially those living in the countryside
folk art
folk dancing
ˈ folk ˌ hero noun [ C ]
someone who is popular with and respected by ordinary people
The mayor is still a folk hero in Chicago's black community.
folklore noun [ U ]
the traditional stories and culture of a group of people
Her books are often based on folklore and fairy-tales.
In Irish folklore, the leprechaun had a large piece of gold.
Arguments between directors and stars are part of the folklore of Hollywood.
ˈ folk ˌ medicine noun [ U ]
traditional medicine, which is based especially on the use of plants instead of on
modern scientific principles
ˈ folk ˌ memory noun [ C usually singular ]
the knowledge that people have about something that happened in the past
because parents have spoken to their children about it over many years
ˌ folk ˈ rock noun [ U ]
music that is a mixture of traditional and modern popular music
folksy adjective
having a traditional artistic or musical style, or (pretending to be) simple and
informal
The book has a certain folksy charm.
ˈ folk ˌ tale noun [ C ]
a story that parents have passed on to their children through speech over many
years
follicle noun [ C ]
any of the very small holes in the skin, especially one that a hair grows from
follow verb GO
1. [ I or T ] to move behind someone or something and go where they go
A dog followed us home.
She followed me into the kitchen.
The book was delivered yesterday with a note saying the bill for it would follow in
a day or two.
He had the feeling he was being followed (= someone was going after him to
catch him or see where he was going) .
I could feel them following me with their eyes (= watching my movements
closely) .
Follow (= Go in the same direction as) the road for two kilometres, then turn left.
Do your own thing, don't just follow the crowd (= do what everyone else does.)
2. follow suit
to do the same thing as someone else
When one airline reduces its prices, the rest soon follow suit.
follow verb HAPPEN
3. [ I or T ] to happen or come after something
We were not prepared for the events that followed (= happened next) .
The meal consisted of smoked salmon, followed by guinea fowl (= with this as the
next part) .
She published a book of poems and followed it (up) with (= next produced) a
novel.
4. as follows
said to introduce a list of things
The winners are as follows - Woods, Smith and Cassidy.
follow verb OBEY
5. [ T ] to obey or to act as ordered by someone
Follow the instructions on the back of the packet carefully.
I decided to follow her advice and go to bed early.
Muslims follow the teachings of the Koran.
follow verb HAVE INTEREST IN
6. [ T ] to have a great interest in something or watch something closely
He follows most sports avidly.
They followed her academic progress closely.
follow verb BE RESULT
7. [ not continuous ] to happen as a result, or to be a likely result
[ + that ] Just because I agreed last time, it doesn't necessarily follow that I
will do so again.
follow verb UNDERSTAND
8. [ I or T ] to understand something as it is being said or done
I'm sorry, I don't quite follow (you).
His lecture was complicated and difficult to follow.
follow verb READ
9. [ T ] To follow a piece of music or writing is to read the notes or words at the
same time as they are being played or said.
follow your nose INFORMAL
1. to trust your own feelings rather than obeying rules or allowing yourself to be
influenced by other people's opinions
Take a chance and follow your nose - you may be right!
2. go in a straight line
Turn left, then just follow your nose and you'll see the shop on your left.
follow in sb's footsteps
to do the same thing as someone else did previously
She followed in her mother's footsteps, starting her own business.
follow on phrasal verb MAINLY UK
to happen or exist as the next part of something
Following on from what I said earlier...
follow (sth) through phrasal verb [ M ]
to do something as the next part of an activity or period of development
The essay started interestingly, but failed to follow through (its argument).
ˌ follow ˈ through phrasal verb
to complete the movement of hitting, kicking or throwing a ball by continuing to
move your arm or leg in the same direction
You need to follow through more on your backhand.
follow sth up phrasal verb ( US ALSO follow up on sth )
to find out more about something, or take further action connected with it
The idea sounded interesting and I decided to follow it up.
He decided to follow up on his initial research and write a book.
follow verb GO
1. [ I or T ] to move behind someone or something and go where they go
A dog followed us home.
She followed me into the kitchen.
The book was delivered yesterday with a note saying the bill for it would follow in
a day or two.
He had the feeling he was being followed (= someone was going after him to
catch him or see where he was going) .
I could feel them following me with their eyes (= watching my movements
closely) .
Follow (= Go in the same direction as) the road for two kilometres, then turn left.
Do your own thing, don't just follow the crowd (= do what everyone else does.)
2. follow suit
to do the same thing as someone else
When one airline reduces its prices, the rest soon follow suit.
follow verb HAPPEN
3. [ I or T ] to happen or come after something
We were not prepared for the events that followed (= happened next) .
The meal consisted of smoked salmon, followed by guinea fowl (= with this as the
next part) .
She published a book of poems and followed it (up) with (= next produced) a
novel.
4. as follows
said to introduce a list of things
The winners are as follows - Woods, Smith and Cassidy.
follow verb OBEY
5. [ T ] to obey or to act as ordered by someone
Follow the instructions on the back of the packet carefully.
I decided to follow her advice and go to bed early.
Muslims follow the teachings of the Koran.
follow verb HAVE INTEREST IN
6. [ T ] to have a great interest in something or watch something closely
He follows most sports avidly.
They followed her academic progress closely.
follow verb BE RESULT
7. [ not continuous ] to happen as a result, or to be a likely result
[ + that ] Just because I agreed last time, it doesn't necessarily follow that I
will do so again.
follow verb UNDERSTAND
8. [ I or T ] to understand something as it is being said or done
I'm sorry, I don't quite follow (you).
His lecture was complicated and difficult to follow.
follow verb READ
9. [ T ] To follow a piece of music or writing is to read the notes or words at the
same time as they are being played or said.
follow your nose INFORMAL
1. to trust your own feelings rather than obeying rules or allowing yourself to be
influenced by other people's opinions
Take a chance and follow your nose - you may be right!
2. go in a straight line
Turn left, then just follow your nose and you'll see the shop on your left.
follow in sb's footsteps
to do the same thing as someone else did previously
She followed in her mother's footsteps, starting her own business.
follow on phrasal verb MAINLY UK
to happen or exist as the next part of something
Following on from what I said earlier...
follow (sth) through phrasal verb [ M ]
to do something as the next part of an activity or period of development
The essay started interestingly, but failed to follow through (its argument).
ˌ follow ˈ through phrasal verb
to complete the movement of hitting, kicking or throwing a ball by continuing to
move your arm or leg in the same direction
You need to follow through more on your backhand.
follow sth up phrasal verb ( US ALSO follow up on sth )
to find out more about something, or take further action connected with it
The idea sounded interesting and I decided to follow it up.
He decided to follow up on his initial research and write a book.
follower noun [ C ] SUPPORTER
1. someone who has a great interest in something
They are keen followers of their local football team.
2. someone who supports, admires or believes in a particular person, group or
idea
a follower of Jesus
followers of the Dalai Lama/Buddhism
follower noun [ C ] PERSON WHO OBEYS
3. a person who does what someone else does or tells them to do
Be a leader, not a follower!
following preposition
after
The weeks following the riots were extremely tense.
Following the dinner, there will be a dance.
following adjective
1. [ before noun ] The following day/morning, etc., is the next one.
following adjective
2. following wind
a wind which is blowing in the same direction as the one in which you are going
following noun [ S ] NEXT
1. the following
(often used to introduce a list, report, etc.) what comes next
The following is an extract from her diary.
following noun [ S ] PEOPLE
2. a group of people who admire something or someone
She has attracted a large following among the rich and famous.
The shop has a small but loyal/devoted following.
3. a group of people who support, admire or believe in a particular person, group
or idea
follow-my-leader noun [ U ] UK ( US follow-the-leader )
a children's game in which one child is followed by a line of other children, who
have to copy everything the first child does
follow-my-leader noun [ U ] UK ( US follow-the-leader )
a children's game in which one child is followed by a line of other children, who
have to copy everything the first child does
follow-up noun [ C ]
a further action connected with something that happened before
This meeting is a follow-up to the one we had last month.
folly noun STUPIDITY
1. [ C or U ] FORMAL stupidity, or a stupid action, idea, etc
She said that the idea was folly.
[ + to infinitive ] It would be folly for the country to become involved in the war.
folly noun BUILDING
2. [ C ] (especially in Britain) a building in the form of a small castle, temple ,
etc., that has been built as a decoration in a large garden or park
a Gothic garden folly
foment verb [ T ] FORMAL
to cause trouble to develop
The song was banned on the grounds that it might foment racial tension.
fond adjective LIKING
1. [ before noun ] having a great liking for someone or something
She was very fond of horses.
"I'm very fond of you, you know," he said.
My brother is fond of pointing out my mistakes.
Many of us have fond memories of our childhoods.
We said a fond farewell to each other (= We said goodbye in a loving way) and
promised to write.
fond adjective FOOLISH
2. a fond belief/hope
something that you would like to be true but that is probably not
I waited in all evening in the fond hope that he might call.
fondant noun [ C or U ]
a thick, soft, sweet food, made mainly of sugar and used to cover cakes, or a
small soft sweet made mainly from sugar
fondant icing
fondle verb [ T ]
to touch gently and in a loving way, or to touch in a sexual way
She fondled the puppies.
He gently fondled the baby's feet.
She accused him of fondling her (= touching her in a sexual way) in the back of a
taxi.
fondle verb [ T ]
taxi.
fondly adverb LIKING
1. in a way that shows love or great liking
He smiled fondly at the children.
fondly adverb HOPING
2. hoping that something will be true when it probably will not
She fondly believed that he might come.
fondness noun [ U ]
a liking
George's fondness for pink gins was well known.
fondue noun [ C ]
a hot dish prepared by keeping a container of either hot oil or melted cheese over
a flame at the table and putting pieces of meat in the oil to be cooked or pieces of bread
into the cheese
a cheese fondue
a meat fondue
ˈ fondue ˌ set noun [ C ]
the equipment needed to make a fondue
font noun [ C ] IN A CHURCH
1. a large, usually stone, container in a church, which holds the water used for
baptisms
font noun [ C ] LETTERS
2. a set of letters and symbols in a particular design and size
food noun [ C or U ]
something that people and animals eat, or plants absorb, to keep them alive
baby food
cat food
plant food
There was lots of food and drink at the party.
I'm allergic to certain foods.
be off your food
to not want to eat, usually because you are ill
give sb food for thought
to make someone think seriously about something
ˈ food ˌ additive noun [ C ]
an artificial substance added to food to give it taste or colour
fondle verb [ T ]
taxi.
fondly adverb LIKING
1. in a way that shows love or great liking
He smiled fondly at the children.
fondly adverb HOPING
2. hoping that something will be true when it probably will not
She fondly believed that he might come.
fondness noun [ U ]
a liking
George's fondness for pink gins was well known.
fondue noun [ C ]
a hot dish prepared by keeping a container of either hot oil or melted cheese over
a flame at the table and putting pieces of meat in the oil to be cooked or pieces of bread
into the cheese
a cheese fondue
a meat fondue
ˈ fondue ˌ set noun [ C ]
the equipment needed to make a fondue
font noun [ C ] IN A CHURCH
1. a large, usually stone, container in a church, which holds the water used for
baptisms
font noun [ C ] LETTERS
2. a set of letters and symbols in a particular design and size
food noun [ C or U ]
something that people and animals eat, or plants absorb, to keep them alive
baby food
cat food
plant food
There was lots of food and drink at the party.
I'm allergic to certain foods.
be off your food
to not want to eat, usually because you are ill
give sb food for thought
to make someone think seriously about something
ˈ food ˌ additive noun [ C ]
an artificial substance added to food to give it taste or colour
the ˈ food ˌ chain noun [ S ]
a series of living things which are connected because each group of things eats
the group below it in the series
ˈ food ˌ group noun [ C ]
one of the main groups that foods belong to
There are five major food groups: carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin and mineral
foodie noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a person who loves food and is very interested in different types of food
ˈ food ˌ miles plural noun
the distance between the place where food is grown or made and the place where
it is eaten
ˈ food ˌ poisoning noun [ U ]
an illness usually caused by eating food that contains harmful bacteria
ˈ food ˌ processor noun [ C ]
an electric machine that cuts, slices and mixes food quickly
ˈ food ˌ stamp noun [ C ] US
a piece of paper which is given to poor people by the government and with which
they can then buy food
foodstuff noun [ C ]
any substance that is used as food or to make food
They lack basic foodstuffs, such as bread and milk.
fool noun PERSON
1. [ C ] a person who behaves in a silly way without thinking
[ as form of address ] You fool, you've missed your chance!
He's a fool if he thinks she still loves him.
[ + to infinitive ] He's a fool to think she still loves him.
He's fool enough to think she still loves him.
My fool of a (= silly) husband has gone out and taken my keys!
2. [ C ] in the past, a person who was employed in the court of a king or queen to
make them laugh by telling jokes and doing funny things
3. act/play the fool
to behave in a silly way, often intentionally to make people laugh
Stop acting the fool, I'm trying to talk to you.
4. any fool
anyone
Any fool could tell that she was joking.
5. make a fool of sb
to trick someone or make them appear stupid in some way
6. make a fool of yourself
to do something that makes other people think you are silly or not to be
respected
I got a bit drunk and made a fool of myself.
7. more fool sb MAINLY UK
said to mean that you think someone is being unwise
"I lent Rhoda $100 and she hasn't paid me back." "More fool you - you know what
she's like!"
8. be no fool ( ALSO be nobody's fool )
to not be stupid or easily deceived
I notice Ed didn't offer to pay for her - he's no fool.
fool noun SWEET DISH
9. [ C or U ] a sweet soft food made of crushed fruit, cream and sugar
gooseberry fool
fool verb
1. [ I or T ] to trick someone
Don't be fooled by his appearance.
She said she was doing it to help me but I wasn't fooled.
Tim was fooled into believing that he'd won a lot of money.
2. You could have fooled me! INFORMAL
used to tell someone that you do not believe what they have just said
"Really, I'm very happy." "You could have fooled me."
fool around/about phrasal verb SILLY
1. to behave in a silly way, especially in a way that might have dangerous results
Don't fool around with matches.
fool around/about phrasal verb FUNNY
2. to behave in a humorous way in order to make other people laugh
He's always getting into trouble for fooling around in class.
fool around/about phrasal verb NOT USEFUL
3. to spend your time doing nothing useful
We spent the afternoon fooling around on the beach.
fool around/about phrasal verb HAVE A SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP
4. MAINLY US If a married person fools around, they have a sexual relationship with
someone who is not their husband or wife
She'd been fooling around with someone at work.
fool adjective [ before noun ] MAINLY US INFORMAL
silly
You've done some fool things in your time, but this beats everything.
foolery noun UK OLD-FASHIONED
silly behaviour
foolhardy adjective
brave in a silly way, taking unnecessary risks
a foolhardy decision
Sailing the Atlantic in such a tiny boat wasn't so much brave as foolhardy.
It would be foolhardy to try and predict the outcome of the talks at this stage.
foolish adjective
unwise, stupid or not showing good judgment
That was a rather foolish thing to do.
She was afraid that she would look foolish if she refused.
It was foolish of them to pay so much.
foolishly adverb
Foolishly, I didn't write the phone number down.
foolishness noun [ U ]
foolproof adjective
(of a plan or machine) so simple and easy to understand that it is unable to go
wrong or be used wrongly
I don't believe there's any such thing as a foolproof scheme for making money.
This new video-recorder is supposed to be foolproof.
foolscap noun [ U ]
paper of a standard size, measuring 17.2 centimetres x 21.6 centimetres
fool's errand noun [ C ]
an effort which is unlikely to be successful
It's a fool's errand trying to get Lena to join in anything.
fool's gold noun [ U ]
1. a mineral that is found in rocks and looks like gold but is not worth anything
2. something that you think will be very pleasant or successful but is not
fool's paradise noun
live in a fool's paradise
to be happy because you do not know or will not accept how bad a situation really
is
foot noun BODY PART
1. [ C ] the part of the body at the bottom of the leg on which a person or animal
stands
I've got a blister on my left foot.
I've been on my feet (= standing) all day and I'm exhausted.
He got to/rose to/jumped to his feet (= stood up) when she walked in.
INFORMAL "You look tired. Why don't you put your feet up (= sit or lie down with
your feet resting on something) ?"
Please wipe your feet (= clean the bottom of your shoes) before you come into
the house.
See pictures body , foot
2. on foot
walking
Are you going by bicycle or on foot?
foot noun MEASUREMENT
3. [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION ft ) a unit of measurement, equal to twelve inches
or 0.3048 metres, sometimes shown by the symbol ′
The man was standing only a few feet away.
She is five feet/foot three inches tall.
She is 5′ 3″ tall.
foot noun BOTTOM
4. [ S ] the bottom or lower end of a space or object
They built a house at the foot of a cliff.
She dreamed she saw someone standing at the foot of her bed.
There's a note to that effect at the foot of the page.
foot noun POETRY
5. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a unit of division of a line of poetry containing one strong beat
and one or two weaker ones
be back on your feet
to be healthy again after a period of illness
"We'll soon have you back on your feet again," said the nurse.
fall/land on your feet
to be successful or lucky, especially after a period of not having success or luck
She's really fallen on her feet with that new job.
get a/ your foot in the door
to enter a business or organization at a low level, but with a chance of being more
successful in the future
Making contacts can help you get a foot in the door when it comes to getting a
job.
get off on the right/wrong foot
to make a successful/unsuccessful start in something
have a foot in both camps
to be connected to two groups with opposing interests
have feet of clay
to have a bad quality which you keep hidden
Some of the greatest geniuses in history had feet of clay.
have one foot in the grave HUMOROUS
to be very old and near death
have/keep your feet on the ground ( ALSO have both feet on the ground )
to be very practical and see things as they really are
my foot INFORMAL OLD-FASHIONED
used to mean that you do not believe what another person has just told you
"He says his car isn't working." "Not working my foot. He's just too lazy to come."
not put a foot wrong
to not make any mistakes
put your foot down
1. to use your authority to stop something happening
When she started borrowing my clothes without asking, I had to put my foot
down.
2. UK ( US floor it ) to increase your speed when you are driving
The road ahead was clear, so I put my foot down.
put your foot in it ( MAINLY US put your foot in your mouth ) INFORMAL
to say something by accident which embarrasses or upsets someone
I really put my foot in it with Alison. I had no idea she was divorced.
hardly/barely put one foot in front of the other
If you can hardly/barely put one foot in front of the other, you are having
difficulty walking
I was so tired that I could hardly put one foot in front of the other.
rush/run sb off their feet
to cause someone to be very busy
I've been rushed off my feet all morning.
set foot in somewhere
to go to a place
He refuses to set foot in an art gallery.
under your feet
If someone is under your feet, they are near you in a way that is difficult and
prevents you from doing what you want to do
The children were under my feet all day so I couldn't get anything done.
foot verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to pay an amount of money
His parents footed the bill for his course fees.
They refused to foot the cost of the wedding.
The company will foot her expenses .
footage noun [ U ]
(a piece of) film especially one showing an event
Woody Allen's film 'Zelig' contains early newsreel footage.
ˌ foot and ˈ mouth (di ˌ sease) noun [ U ] UK ( US hoof and mouth (disease) )
an infectious illness of cattle , sheep, pigs and goats that causes painful areas in
the mouth and on the feet
football noun
football
1. [ U ] UK ( UK AND US soccer ) a game played between two teams of eleven
people, where each team tries to win by kicking a ball into the other team's goal
a football player/team
He's playing football.
Are you coming to the football match ?
I'm not a big football fan.
2. [ U ] US ( UK American football ) a game for two teams of eleven players in
which an oval ball is moved along the field by running with it or throwing it
a football game
3. [ C ] a large ball made of leather or plastic and filled with air, used in games of
football
footballer noun [ C ] UK
someone who plays football, especially as their job
professional footballers
ˌ footballer's ˈ wife noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING OR HUMOROUS
a beautiful woman who has a rich husband and does not work, but spends a lot of
time buying expensive things and taking care of her appearance
footballing adjective [ before noun ]
relating to or playing football
It was the high point of his footballing career.
a footballing country/hero
ˈ football ˌ pools plural noun UK
the pools
ˈ foot ˌ brake noun [ C ]
a brake which you press with your foot
footbridge noun [ C ]
a narrow bridge that is only used by people who are walking
footbridge noun [ C ]
a narrow bridge that is only used by people who are walking
-footed suffix
with feet of the stated type or number
our four-footed friends (= animals having four feet)
bare-footed children (= children wearing no shoes)
-footer suffix
the stated number of feet in length
Our boat's a forty-footer.
footer noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a piece of text, such as a title or initials, that appears at the bottom of every page
of a document or book
Compare header
footfall noun SOUND OF FEET
1. [ C ] LITERARY the sound of a person's foot hitting the ground as they walk
I heard echoing footfalls in the corridor.
footfall noun BUSINESS
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED the number of people who go into a shop or business in a
particular period of time
Footfall is an important indicator of how successful a company's advertising is at
bringing people into its shops.
ˈ foot ˌ fault noun [ C ]
in tennis, when a player steps over the back line of the court while serving
foothill noun [ C usually plural ]
a low mountain or low hill at the bottom of a larger mountain or range of
mountains
the foothills of the Pyrenees
foothold noun [ C ] ROCK CLIMBING
1. a place such as a hole in a rock where you can put your foot safely when
climbing
foothold noun [ C ] STRONG POSITION
2. a strong first position from which further progress can be made
We are still trying to get/gain a foothold in the Japanese market.
footing noun [ S ] FEET
1. when you are standing firmly on a slope or other dangerous surface
I lost/missed my footing and fell.
It was a struggle just to keep my footing.
footing noun [ S ] SITUATION
2. the way in which something operates and the set of conditions that influences it
The council wants to put the bus service on a commercial footing.
3. be on an equal/firm, etc. footing
to be in an equal, safe, etc. situation
Men and women ought to be able to compete for jobs on an equal footing.

footlights plural noun
a row of lights along the front of a stage at a theatre
footling adjective OLD-FASHIONED
silly or not important
He could always do something useful instead of wasting my time with footling
queries.
footloose adjective
responsibilities
My sister's married but I'm still footloose and fancy-free .
footman noun [ C ]
a male servant whose job includes opening doors and serving food, and who often
wears a uniform
footnote noun
1. [ C ] a note printed at the bottom of a page which gives extra information
about something that has been written on that page
2. [ C usually singular ] an event, subject or detail which is not important
His tumultuous triumph 5 years ago now seems a mere footnote in history .
footpath noun [ C ]
a path, especially in the countryside, for walking on
footplate noun [ C ]
the part of a steam railway engine on which the driver stands
footprint noun [ C ] FOOT
footprint
1. the mark made by a person's or animal's foot
footprint noun [ C ] AREA
2. SPECIALIZED the amount of space on a surface that something needs, especially a
computer
The new computer has a smaller footprint.
footsie noun [ U ]
play footsie , see at play (GAME)

footlights plural noun
a row of lights along the front of a stage at a theatre
footling adjective OLD-FASHIONED
silly or not important
He could always do something useful instead of wasting my time with footling
queries.
footloose adjective
responsibilities
My sister's married but I'm still footloose and fancy-free .
footman noun [ C ]
a male servant whose job includes opening doors and serving food, and who often
wears a uniform
footnote noun
1. [ C ] a note printed at the bottom of a page which gives extra information
about something that has been written on that page
2. [ C usually singular ] an event, subject or detail which is not important
His tumultuous triumph 5 years ago now seems a mere footnote in history .
footpath noun [ C ]
a path, especially in the countryside, for walking on
footplate noun [ C ]
the part of a steam railway engine on which the driver stands
footprint noun [ C ] FOOT
footprint
1. the mark made by a person's or animal's foot
footprint noun [ C ] AREA
2. SPECIALIZED the amount of space on a surface that something needs, especially a
computer
The new computer has a smaller footprint.
footsie noun [ U ]
play footsie , see at play (GAME)
Footsie noun
INFORMAL FOR the FTSE 100 (Index)
footslogging noun [ U ] UK INFORMAL
when you walk over a long distance or from place to place so that you become
tired
ˈ foot ˌ soldier noun [ C ]
an infantryman
footsore adjective
having painful, tired feet, especially after a lot of walking
footstep noun [ C ]
1. the sound made by a person walking as their foot touches the ground, or a step
(= foot movement)
Walking along the darkened street, he heard footsteps close behind him.
2. footsteps
the route a person has taken in order to reach a place or to achieve something
When he realized he'd lost his wallet, he retraced his footsteps (= went back the
way he had come) .
footstool noun [ C ]
a low support on which a person who is sitting can place their feet
footwear noun [ U ]
shoes, boots or any other outer covering for the human foot
You'll need some fairly tough footwear to go walking up mountains.
footwork noun [ U ]
the way in which the feet are used in sports or dancing, especially when it is
skilful
And that's a marvellous bit of footwork there from Ponti as he takes the ball from
Garcia.
footy , footie noun [ U ]
1. UK INFORMAL football
2. AUSTRALIAN INFORMAL rugby
fop noun [ C ]
(especially in the past) a man who is extremely interested in his appearance and
who wears very decorative clothes
foppish adjective OLD USE DISAPPROVING
for , , preposition INTENDED FOR
1. intended to be given to
There's a phone message for you.
I'd better buy something for the new baby.
There's a prize for the fastest three runners in each category.
for , , preposition PURPOSE
2. having the purpose of
There's a sign there saying 'boats for hire'.
This pool is for the use of hotel residents only.
I'm sorry, the books are not for sale.
They've invited us round for dinner on Saturday.
Everyone in the office is contributing money for his leaving present.
I need some money for tonight.
Which vitamins should you take for (= in order to cure) skin problems?
Put those clothes in a pile for wash ing (= so that they can be washed) .
for , , preposition BECAUSE OF
3. because of or as a result of something
I'm feeling all the better for my holiday.
"How are you?" "Fine, and all the better for see ing you!"
She did fifteen years in prison for murder.
I don't eat meat for various reasons.
I couldn't see for the tears in my eyes.
The things you do for love!
He's widely disliked in the company for his arrogance.
She couldn't talk for cough ing (= she was coughing too much to talk) .
Scotland is famous for its spectacular countryside.
He's best remembered for his novels.
I didn't dare say anything for fear of (= because I was frightened of) offending
him.
4. if it wasn't/weren't for ( ALSO if it hadn't been for )
without
If it wasn't for the life jacket, I would have drowned.
for , , preposition TIME/DISTANCE
5. used to show an amount of time or distance
We walked for miles.
She's out of the office for a few days next week.
I'm just going to bed for an hour or so.
I haven't played tennis for years.
for , , preposition OCCASION
6. on the occasion of or at the time of
What did you buy him for Christmas?
I'd like an appointment with the doctor for some time this week.
We're having a party for Jim's 60th birthday.
I've booked a table at the restaurant for nine o'clock.
for , , preposition COMPARING
7. used for comparing one thing with others of the same type
She's very mature for her age.
For every two people in favour of the law there are three against.
The summer has been quite hot for England.
It was a difficult decision, especially for a child.
For a man of his wealth he's not exactly generous.
for , , preposition SUPPORT
8. in support of or in agreement with
I voted for the Greens at the last election.
Those voting for the motion, 96, and those voting against, 54.
So let's hear some applause for these talented young performers.
Who's for (= Who wants to play) tennis?
9. be all for sth
to approve of or support something very much
I've got nothing against change - I'm all for it.
I'm all for sexual equality, but I don't want my wife earning more than I do.
for , , preposition IN RELATION TO
10. in relation to someone or something
Her feelings for him had changed.
He felt nothing but contempt for her.
I've got a lot of admiration for people who do that sort of work.
He's quite good-looking but he's a bit too short for me.
The ice-cream was a little bit sweet for me.
That jacket looks a bit big for you.
Jackie's already left and, as for me, I'm going at the end of the month.
Luckily for me (= I was lucky) , I already had another job when the redundancies
were announced.
How are you doing for money/time (= have you got enough money/time) ?
11. for all
despite
For all her qualifications, she's still useless at the job.
for , , preposition PAYMENT
12. (getting) in exchange
How much did you pay for your glasses?
I've sponsored her £1 for every mile that she runs.
She sold the house for quite a lot of money.
They've said they'll repair my car for £300.
for , , preposition REPRESENTING
13. being employed by or representing a company, country, etc
She works for a charity.
He used to swim for his country when he was younger.
for , , preposition TOWARDS
14. towards; in the direction of
They looked as if they were heading for the train station.
Just follow signs for the town centre.
This time tomorrow we'll be setting off for the States.
It says this train is for (= going to stop at) Birmingham and Coventry only.
for , , preposition MEANING
15. showing meaning
What's the Spanish word for 'vegetarian'?
What does the 'M.J.' stand for? Maria Jose?
for , , preposition TO GET
16. in order to get or achieve
I hate waiting for public transport.
I had to run for the bus.
Did you send off for details of the competition?
I've applied for a job with another computer company.
for , , preposition DUTY
17. the duty or responsibility of
As to whether you should marry him - that's for you to decide.
It's not for me to tell her what she should do with her life.
As to how many she invites, it's not really for me to say.
for , , preposition IN TROUBLE
18. for it INFORMAL
in trouble
You'll be for it when she finds out!
for all sb cares/knows INFORMAL
said to show that something is not important to someone
You could be the Queen of England, for all I care - you're not coming in here
without a ticket.
that/there's ... for you DISAPPROVING
describes something that you think is a typical example of something bad
You spend two hours cooking a meal and they say "it's disgusting" - that's
children for you!
what ... for?
why
What did you do that for?
What are you emptying that cupboard for?
for , , conjunction OLD-FASHIONED OR LITERARY BECAUSE
because; as
She remained silent, for her heart was heavy and her spirits low.
forage verb [ I ]
to go from place to place searching, especially for food
The children had been living on the streets, foraging for scraps and sleeping
rough.
The pigs foraged in the woods for acorns.
forage noun [ U ]
food grown for horses and farm animals
winter forage
forage crops.
foray noun [ C ] ATTEMPT
1. a short involvement in an activity which is different from and outside the range
of a usual set of activities
She made a brief foray into acting before becoming a teacher.
foray noun [ C ] VISIT
2. a short visit, especially with a known purpose
I made a quick foray into town before lunch to get my sister a present.
foray noun [ C ] ATTACK
3. the act of an army suddenly and quickly entering the area belonging to the
enemy in order to attack them or steal their supplies
forbear verb [ I ] FORMAL
to prevent yourself from saying or doing something, especially in a way that
shows control, good judgment or kindness to others
His plan was such a success that even his original critics could scarcely forbear
from congratulat ing him.
The doctor said she was optimistic about the outcome of the operation but forbore
to make any promises at this early stage.
forbear noun [ C usually plural ]
a forebear
forbearance noun [ U ] FORMAL
the quality of patience, forgiveness and self-control shown in a difficult situation
[ + ( that ) ] He thanked his employees for the forbearance (that) they had
shown during the company's difficult times.
forbearing adjective FORMAL
patient and forgiving
The vicar praised what he called her "kind and forbearing nature".
forbearing adjective FORMAL

patient and forgiving
The vicar praised what he called her "kind and forbearing nature".
forbid verb [ T ] OLD USE
to refuse to allow something, especially officially, or to prevent a particular plan of
action by making it impossible
The law forbids the sale of cigarettes to people under the age of 16.
[ + to infinitive ] He's obviously quite embarrassed about it because he forbade
me to tell anyone.
He is forbidden from leav ing the country.
heaven forbid ( ALSO God forbid )
a way of saying that you hope something does not happen
Heaven forbid (that) his parents should ever find out.
forbidden adjective
not allowed, especially by law
Smoking is forbidden in the cinema.
forbidden fruit LITERARY
something, especially something sexual, which is even more attractive because it
is not allowed
He was always drawn to other men's wives - the forbidden fruit.
forbidding adjective
unfriendly and likely to be unpleasant or harmful
a forbidding row of security guards
With storm clouds rushing over them, the mountains looked dark and forbidding.
forbiddingly adverb
forbore
PAST SIMPLE OF forbear
forborne
PAST PARTICIPLE OF forbear
force noun PHYSICAL POWER
1. [ U ] physical, especially violent, strength or power
The force of the wind had brought down a great many trees in the area.
She slapped his face with unexpected force.
Teachers aren't allowed to use force in controlling their pupils.
The police were able to control the crowd by sheer force of numbers (= because
there were more police than there were people in the crowd) .
2. in force
in large numbers
Photographers were out in force at the palace today
3. [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED in scientific use, (a measure of) the influence which
changes movement
the force of gravity
4. combine/join forces
to work with someone else in order to achieve something which you both want
force noun INFLUENCE
5. [ C or U ] (a person or thing with a lot of) influence and energy
He was a powerful force in British politics during the war years.
A united Europe, he said, would be a great force in world affairs.
LITERARY Fishermen are always at the mercy of the forces of nature (= bad
weather conditions) .
6. a force to be reckoned with
If an organization or a person is described as a force to be reckoned with, it
means that they are powerful and have a lot of influence
The United Nations is now a force to be reckoned with.
7. force of habit
If you do something from force of habit, you do it without thinking because you
have done it so often before.
force noun GROUP
8. [ C ] a group of people organized and trained, especially for military, police or a
stated purpose
the security forces
the work force
He joined the police force straight after school.
9. the forces
the military organizations for air, land and sea
force noun IN OPERATION
10. in/into force
(of laws, rules or systems) existing and being used
New driving regulations are going to come into force this year.
the forces of evil
things that have a very bad influence or effect
Poverty and ignorance, the bishop said, were the forces of evil in our society
today.
force verb [ T ] GIVE NO CHOICE
1. to make something happen or make someone do something difficult,
unpleasant or unusual, especially by threatening or not offering the possibility of choice
[ R + to infinitive ] I really have to force my self to be pleasant to him.
[ + to infinitive ] You can't force her to make a decision.
Hospitals are being forced to close departments because of lack of money.
You could tell he was having to force back the tears (= stop himself from crying)
.
I didn't actually want any more dessert, but Julia forced it on me (= made me
accept it) .
[ R ] I couldn't stay at their flat - I'd feel as if I was forcing my self on them (=
making them allow me to stay) .
You never tell me how you're feeling - I have to force it out of you (= make you
tell me) !
2. SPECIALIZED If plants or vegetables are forced, they are made to grow faster by
artificially controlling growing conditions such as the amount of heat and light
forced strawberries
3. force a laugh/smile
to manage, with difficulty, to laugh or smile
I managed to force a smile as they were leaving.
4. force an/the issue
to take action to make certain that an urgent problem or matter is dealt with now
If the management wouldn't listen to their demands, they would have to force the
issue by striking.
force verb [ T ] USE PHYSICAL POWER
5. to use physical strength or effort to make something move or open
Move your leg up gently when you're doing this exercise, but don't force it.
If you force the zip, it'll break.
She forced her way through the crowds.
6. to break a lock, door, window, etc. in order to allow someone to get in
I forgot my key, so I had to force a window.
[ + adjective ] The police had forced open the door because nobody had
answered.
The burglar forced an entry (= broke a window, door, etc. to get into the house)
.
force sb's hand
to make someone do something they do not want to do, or act sooner than they
had intended
forced adjective
1. done against your wishes
forced repatriation
2. describes an action which is done because it is suddenly made necessary by a
new and usually unexpected situation
The aeroplane had to make a forced landing because one of the engines cut out.
3. describes laughter, a smile or an emotion which is produced with effort and is
not sincerely felt
She tried hard to smile but suspected that it looked forced.
forced adjective
1. done against your wishes
forced repatriation
2. describes an action which is done because it is suddenly made necessary by a
new and usually unexpected situation
The aeroplane had to make a forced landing because one of the engines cut out.
3. describes laughter, a smile or an emotion which is produced with effort and is
not sincerely felt
She tried hard to smile but suspected that it looked forced.
force-feed verb [ T ]
to make a person or animal eat and drink, often sending food to the stomach
through a pipe in the mouth
Eventually, the hunger strikers were force-fed.
FIGURATIVE The whole nation was force-fed government propaganda about how well
the country was doing.
forceful adjective
expressing opinions strongly and demanding attention or action
The opposition leader led a very forceful attack on the government in parliament
this morning.
She has a very forceful personality which will serve her well in politics.
forcefully adverb
He argued forcefully that stricter laws were necessary to deal with the problem.
forcefulness noun [ U ]
force multiplier noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
in physics, something that increases the effect of a force
forceps plural noun
forceps
a metal instrument with two handles used in medical operations for picking up,
pulling and holding things
forcible adjective USING PHYSICAL POWER
1. describes actions that involve the use of physical power or of violence
The police's forcible entry into the building has come under a lot of criticism.
forcible adjective GIVING NO CHOICE
2. happening or done against someone's wishes, especially with the use of
physical force
There's a law to protect refugees from forcible return to countries where they face
persecution.
forcibly adverb
Several rioters were forcibly removed from the town square.
ford noun [ C ]
an area in a river or stream which is not deep and can be crossed on foot or in a
vehicle
ford verb [ T ]
to cross a river, where it is not deep, on foot or in a vehicle
fordable adjective
The river wasn't fordable because of all the recent rainfall.
ford noun [ C ]
an area in a river or stream which is not deep and can be crossed on foot or in a
vehicle
ford verb [ T ]
to cross a river, where it is not deep, on foot or in a vehicle
fordable adjective
The river wasn't fordable because of all the recent rainfall.
fore noun
to the fore
to public attention or into a noticeable position
Various ecological issues have come to the fore since the discovery of the hole in
the Earth's ozone layer.
The prime minister has deliberately brought to the fore those ministers with a
more caring image.
See also the forefront
fore adverb [ before noun ] , adjective
(especially on ships) towards or in the front
fore- prefix
at or towards the front
the forelegs (= front legs) of a horse
the foreground (= things that seem nearest to you) of a picture
forearm noun [ C ]
the lower part of the arm, between the wrist and the elbow (= the middle of the
arm where it bends)
See picture body
forearmed adjective
Forewarned is forearmed
See at forewarn
forebear , forbear noun [ C usually plural ] FORMAL
a relation who lived in the past; an ancestor
foreboding noun [ C or U ] LITERARY
a feeling that something very bad is going to happen soon
There's a sense of foreboding in the capital, as if fighting might at any minute
break out.
Her forebodings about the future were to prove justified.
[ + ( that ) ] He had a strange foreboding (that) something would go wrong.
forecast noun [ C ]
a statement of what is judged likely to happen in the future, especially in
connection with a particular situation, or the expected weather conditions
economic forecasts
The weather forecast said it was going to rain later today.
forecast verb [ T ]
to say what you expect to happen in the future
They forecast a large drop in unemployment over the next two years.
Snow has been forecast for tonight.
[ + to infinitive ] Oil prices are forecast to increase by less than 2% this year.
forecast noun [ C ]
a statement of what is judged likely to happen in the future, especially in
connection with a particular situation, or the expected weather conditions
economic forecasts
The weather forecast said it was going to rain later today.
forecast verb [ T ]
to say what you expect to happen in the future
They forecast a large drop in unemployment over the next two years.
Snow has been forecast for tonight.
[ + to infinitive ] Oil prices are forecast to increase by less than 2% this year.
forecaster noun [ C ]
a person who tells you what particular conditions are expected to be like
an economic forecaster
a weather forecaster
foreclose verb TAKE POSSESSION
1. [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED (especially of banks) to take back property that was
bought with borrowed money because the money was not being paid back as formally
agreed
foreclose verb PREVENT
2. [ T ] FORMAL to prevent something from being considered as a possibility in the
future
The leader's aggressive stance seems to have foreclosed any chance of diplomatic
compromise.
foreclosure noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
forecourt noun [ C ]
1. a flat area in front of a large building
the garage forecourt
2. SPECIALIZED the area next to the net in sports such as tennis
foredoomed adjective LITERARY
(especially of planned activities) going to fail; extremely unlucky from the
beginning
The whole project seemed foredoomed to failure from the start.
forefathers plural noun LITERARY
someone's relations who lived a long time ago
forefinger noun [ C ] ( ALSO index finger )
the finger next to the thumb
forefoot noun [ C ]
one of the two front feet of an animal with four legs
the forefront noun [ S ]
the most noticeable or important position
She was one of the politicians at/in the forefront of the campaign to free the
prisoners.
His team are at the forefront of scientific research into vaccines.
the forefront noun [ S ]
the most noticeable or important position

She was one of the politicians at/in the forefront of the campaign to free the
prisoners.
His team are at the forefront of scientific research into vaccines.
forego verb [ T ]
to forgo
the ˈ foregoing noun [ S ] FORMAL
what has just been mentioned or described
I can testify to the foregoing since I was actually present when it happened.
foregoing adjective [ before noun ]
The foregoing account was written fifty years after the incident.
foregone conclusion noun [ C usually singular ]
a result that is obvious to everyone even before it happens
The result of the election seems to be a foregone conclusion.
foreground noun [ S ]
the foreground
a. the people, objects, countryside, etc. in a picture or photograph that seem
nearest to you and form its main part
In the foreground of the painting is a horse and cart.
Compare background
b. the area of most importance and activity, or which people pay attention to
Historically, issues of this kind have not occupied the foreground of political
debate.
foreground verb [ T ]
to give the most importance to a particular subject, etc
His speech foregrounded the history of the decision.
forehand noun [ C ]
(in sports such as tennis) a hit in which the palm of the hand which is holding the
racket faces the same direction as the hit itself, or the player's ability to perform this hit
a forehand volley
His forehand is his weakest shot.
serve to her forehand
Compare backhand
forehead , noun [ C ]
the flat part of the face, above the eyes and below the hair
She's got a high forehead.
See picture head
forehead , noun [ C ]
the flat part of the face, above the eyes and below the hair
She's got a high forehead.
See picture head
foreign adjective
1. belonging or connected to a country which is not your own
Spain was the first foreign country she had visited.
foreign languages
His work provided him with the opportunity for a lot of foreign travel.
2. foreign to
FORMAL Something can be described as foreign to a particular person if they do not
know about it or it is not within their experience
The whole concept of democracy, she claimed, was utterly foreign to the present
government.
3. describes an object or substance which has entered something else, possibly by
accident, and does not belong there
a foreign object/substance
foreign matter
ˌ foreign af ˈ fairs plural noun
matters that are connected with other countries
ˌ foreign ˈ aid noun [ U ]
the help that is given by a richer country to a poorer one, usually in the form of
money or food
foreigner noun [ C ]
a person who comes from another country
ˌ foreign ex ˈ change noun [ C usually singular ]
the system by which the type of money used in one country is exchanged for
another country's money, making international trade easier
On the foreign-exchange markets the pound remained firm.
the ˈ Foreign ˌ Office noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
in Britain, the department of the government which deals with Britain's
connections with other countries
foreknowledge noun [ U ] FORMAL
knowledge of an event before it happens
foreknowledge noun [ U ] FORMAL

knowledge of an event before it happens
foreleg noun [ C ]
one of the two front legs of an animal with four legs
forelock noun [ C ]
a piece of hair which grows or falls over the forehead (= part of the face above
the eyes) or the part of a horse's mane that falls forward between its ears
tug at/touch your forelock
to show respect to someone in a higher position than you in a way that seems
old-fashioned
foreman noun [ C ] PERSON AT WORK
1. SPECIALIZED a skilled person with experience who is in charge of and watches
over a group of workers
foreman noun [ C ] IN A COURT OF LAW
2. in a court of law, one member of the jury who is chosen to be in charge of their
discussions and to speak officially for them
foremost adjective
most important or best; leading
This is one of the country's foremost arts centres.
She's one of the foremost experts on child psychology.
forename noun [ C ] FORMAL
the name which is chosen for you at birth and goes before your family name
forensic adjective [ before noun ]
related to scientific methods of solving crimes, involving examining the objects or
substances that are involved in the crime
forensic evidence/medicine/science
Forensic examination revealed a large quantity of poison in the dead man's
stomach.
foreplay noun [ U ]
the sexual activity such as kissing and touching that people do before they have
sex
forerunner noun [ C ]
something or someone that acts as an early and less advanced model for what
will appear in the future, or a warning or sign of what is to follow
Germany's Green party was said to be the forerunner of environmental parties
throughout Europe.
The drop in share prices in March was a forerunner of the financial crash that
followed in June.
forerunner noun [ C ]
something or someone that acts as an early and less advanced model for what
will appear in the future, or a warning or sign of what is to follow
Germany's Green party was said to be the forerunner of environmental parties
throughout Europe.
The drop in share prices in March was a forerunner of the financial crash that
followed in June.
foresee verb [ T ]
to know about something before it happens
I don't foresee any difficulties so long as we keep within budget.
foreseeable adjective
1. A foreseeable event or situation is one that can be known about or guessed
before it happens.
2. in/for the foreseeable future
as far into the future as you can imagine or plan for
I'll certainly carry on living here for the foreseeable future.
He asked me if there was any point in the foreseeable future when I'd like to have
children.
foreshadow verb [ T ] FORMAL
to act as a warning or sign of a future event
The recent outbreak of violence was foreshadowed by isolated incidents in the city
earlier this year.
the foreshore noun [ S ] SPECIALIZED
the part of the land next to the sea which is between the limits reached by high
and low tide, or any part of this land that does not have grass or buildings on it
foreshorten verb [ T ]
1. to reduce or shorten
Smoking was certainly one of the factors that foreshortened his life.
2. SPECIALIZED to draw, paint or photograph people or objects to make them seem
smaller or closer together than they really are
foreshortened adjective
foresight noun [ U ]
the ability to judge correctly what is going to happen in the future and plan your
actions based on this knowledge
She'd had the foresight to sell her apartment just before house prices came
down.
foreskin noun [ C ]
the loose skin which covers the end of the penis
foreskin noun [ C ]
the loose skin which covers the end of the penis
forest noun [ C or U ]
forest
a large area of land covered with trees and plants, usually larger than a wood, or
the trees and plants themselves
the Black Forest
The children got lost in the forest.
forestall verb [ T ]
to prevent something from happening by acting first
The government forestalled criticism by holding a public enquiry into the matter.
forester noun [ C ]
a person who is in charge of taking care of a forest
forestry noun [ U ]
the science of planting and taking care of large areas of trees
foretaste noun [ S ]
something that gives you an idea of what something else is like by allowing you to
experience a small example of it before it happens
a foretaste of spring
The recent factory closures and job losses are just a foretaste of the recession
that is to come.
foretell verb [ T ] LITERARY
to state what is going to happen in the future
[ + question word ] He was a sixteenth-century prophet who foretold how the
world would end.
forethought noun [ U ]
the good judgment to consider the near future in your present actions; planning
before you do something
I'm glad I had the forethought to make a copy of the letter, as proof of what had
been promised.
forever , UK ALSO for ever adverb
1. for all time
I like the house but I don't imagine I'll live there forever.
2. INFORMAL very often
She's forever telling him she's going to leave him but she never actually does.
3. for an extremely long time or too much time
We'd better walk a bit quicker - it's going to take forever if we go at this pace.
forever , UK ALSO for ever adverb

1. for all time
I like the house but I don't imagine I'll live there forever.
2. INFORMAL very often
She's forever telling him she's going to leave him but she never actually does.
3. for an extremely long time or too much time
We'd better walk a bit quicker - it's going to take forever if we go at this pace.
forewarn verb [ T ]
to tell someone that something unpleasant is going to happen
[ + ( that ) ] The employees had been forewarned (that) the end-of-year
financial results would be poor.
Forewarned is forearmed. SAYING
said to mean that if you know about something before it happens, you can be
prepared for it
forewoman noun [ C ]
a female foreman
foreword noun [ C ]
a short piece of writing at the beginning of a book, sometimes praise by a famous
person or someone who is not the writer
forfeit verb [ T ]
to lose the right to do or have something because you have broken a rule
If you cancel now I'm afraid you forfeit your deposit.
These people have forfeited the right to live in society.
forfeit noun [ C ]
1. something that you have lost the right to do or have because you have broken
a rule
2. pay a forfeit
to give up something, especially in a game
forfeit adjective [ after verb ] FORMAL
taken away from someone as a punishment
forfeiture noun [ C or U ] LEGAL
the loss of rights, property or money, especially as a result of breaking a legal
agreement
He was deep in debt and faced with forfeiture of his property.
forgave
PAST SIMPLE OF forgive
forge verb COPY
1. [ T ] to make an illegal copy of something in order to deceive
a forged passport
a forged signature
A number of forged works of art have been sold as genuine.
forge verb CREATE
2. [ T ] to make or produce, especially with some difficulty
The accident forged a close bond between the two families.
She forged a new career for herself as a singer.
forge verb MOVE
3. [ I + adverb or preposition ] FORMAL to suddenly and quickly move forward
Just 100 metres from the finishing line Jackson forged ahead .
She forged down the straight.
forge ahead phrasal verb
to suddenly make a lot of progress with something
The organizers are forging ahead with a programme of public events.
forge noun [ C ]
a working area with a fire for heating metal until it is soft enough to be beaten
into different shapes
a blacksmith's forge
forge verb COPY

1. [ T ] to make an illegal copy of something in order to deceive
a forged passport
a forged signature
A number of forged works of art have been sold as genuine.
forge verb CREATE
2. [ T ] to make or produce, especially with some difficulty
The accident forged a close bond between the two families.
She forged a new career for herself as a singer.
forge verb MOVE
3. [ I + adverb or preposition ] FORMAL to suddenly and quickly move forward
Just 100 metres from the finishing line Jackson forged ahead .
She forged down the straight.
forge ahead phrasal verb
to suddenly make a lot of progress with something
The organizers are forging ahead with a programme of public events.
forge noun [ C ]
a working area with a fire for heating metal until it is soft enough to be beaten
into different shapes
a blacksmith's forge
forger noun [ C ]
someone who makes forged copies
an art forger
forgery noun [ C or U ]
an illegal copy of a document, painting, etc. or the crime of making such illegal
copies
These banknotes are forgeries.
He increased his income by forgery.
forget verb NOT REMEMBER
1. [ I or T ] to be unable to remember a fact, something that happened, or how to
do something
I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name.
Let me write down that date before I forget it.
I completely forgot about Gemma's party.
[ + ( that ) ] We had forgotten (that) she doesn't come on Thursdays.
I'm sorry, I was forgetting (= I had forgotten) (that) you would be away in
August.
[ + -ing verb ] She would never forget see ing the Himalayas for the first time.
[ + question word ] I've forgotten wh at you do next/ how to do it.
I never forget a face (= I'm good at remembering people) .
2. not forgetting
including
This is where we keep all the books, not forgetting the magazines and
newspapers.
forget verb NOT DO
3. [ I + to infinitive T ] to not remember to do something
Don't forget to lock the door.
Dad's always forgetting (to take) his pills.
forget verb NOT BRING
4. [ T ] to not bring something with you because you did not remember it
I've forgotten my keys.
forget verb STOP THINKING
5. [ I or T ] to stop thinking about someone or something
He tried to forget her.
It seemed unlikely that the debt would ever be paid so we just forgot (about) it.
forget verb BEHAVE BADLY
6. forget yourself
[ R ] to act in a socially unacceptable way because you have lost control of your
emotions
He was so angry he forgot himself and swore loudly.
and don't you forget it
used to tell someone that a particular fact is important and it should influence the
way they behave
I've been in the job longer than you and don't you forget it!
forget it INFORMAL
1. used to tell someone that what they want is impossible
"I'd like to take a week's holiday." "Forget it, we're way too busy."
2. used to tell someone that something is not important and not to worry about it
"I'm so sorry about that cup." "Oh, forget it - I've got plenty."
forgetful adjective
often forgetting things
She's getting very forgetful in her old age.
forgetfully adverb
forgetfulness noun [ U ]
forgetful adjective
often forgetting things
She's getting very forgetful in her old age.
forgetfully adverb
forgetfulness noun [ U ]
forget-me-not noun [ C ]
a small garden plant with blue or pink flowers which grows from seed every year
forgettable adjective
not important or good enough to be remembered
a forgettable film/song
Dennis White scored the only goal in an otherwise forgettable match.
forgivable adjective
describes something that you are able to forgive because you understand it
a forgivable mistake
forgive verb [ I or T not continuous ]
1. to stop blaming or being angry with someone for something they have done, or
not punish them for something
I don't think she's ever quite forgiven me for getting her name wrong that time.
I've never found it easy to forgive and forget (= to behave as if something
wrong had never happened).
[ R ] I'd never forgive my self if anything happened to the kids.
2. forgive me FORMAL
used before you ask or say something that might seem rude
Forgive me for asking, but how much did you pay for your bag?
forgiveness noun [ U ]
the act of forgiving or the willingness to forgive
to ask for/beg forgiveness
forgiving adjective
1. willing to forgive
She's very forgiving.
2. Something which is forgiving allows you to make mistakes or allows for your
weaknesses
They flew back to a cooler and more forgiving climate.
The racket has a powerful but forgiving frame which is kind to the arm.
forgo verb [ T ] ( ALSO forego ) FORMAL
to not have or do something enjoyable
I shall have to forgo the pleasure of seeing you this week.
forgo verb [ T ] ( ALSO forego ) FORMAL
to not have or do something enjoyable
I shall have to forgo the pleasure of seeing you this week.
fork noun [ C ] FOOD
1. a small object with three or four points and a handle, that you use to pick up
food and eat with
a knife and fork.
See picture fork
fork noun [ C ] GARDEN
2. a tool with a long handle and three or four points, used for digging and
breaking soil into pieces
a garden fork.
See picture fork
fork noun [ C ] DIVISION
3. a place where a road or river etc. divides into two parts, or either of those two
parts
When you reach a fork in the road take the right-hand path.
See picture fork
fork verb DIVIDE
1. [ I ] If a road or river forks, it divides into two parts
The pub is near where the road forks.
2. [ I + adverb or preposition ] UK to turn in one of two different directions
Fork left/right where the road divides.
fork verb GARDEN
3. [ T ] to move or dig something with a fork
fork out (sth) phrasal verb INFORMAL
to pay, especially unwillingly
I forked out ten quid for/on the ticket.
I couldn't persuade him to fork out for a new one.
fork over/up sth phrasal verb [ M ] US INFORMAL
to give something, especially money to someone, especially when you do not
want to
We had to fork over ten bucks to park near the stadium.
Hey, that's mine. Fork it over!
forked adjective
with one end divided into two parts
a forked tail
a snake's forked tongue
forked lightning
See picture fork
forked adjective
with one end divided into two parts
a forked tail
a snake's forked tongue
forked lightning
See picture fork
ˌ forked ˈ tongue noun
speak with a forked tongue
to tell lies or say one thing and mean something else
forkful noun [ C ]
the amount of food that can be held on a fork
a forkful of baked beans
fork-lift (truck) noun [ C ]
fork-lift (truck)
a small vehicle which has two strong bars of metal fixed to the front used for
lifting piles of goods
forlorn adjective SAD
1. LITERARY alone and unhappy; left alone and not cared for
She looked a forlorn figure standing at the bus stop.
forlorn adjective UNLIKELY TO SUCCEED
2. [ before noun ] very unlikely to be achieved or to succeed
Their only hope now is that the outside world will intervene but it is an
increasingly forlorn hope .
She appeared on daytime TV in a forlorn attempt to persuade the public of her
innocence.
forlornly adverb
She sat forlornly (= alone and unhappy) looking out to sea.
form verb
1. [ I or T ] to begin to exist or to make something begin to exist
A crowd formed around the accident.
A solution began to form in her mind.
She formed the clay into a small bowl.
I formed the impression (= the way she behaved suggested to me) that she
didn't really want to come.
2. [ L only + noun ] to make or be something
The lorries formed a barricade across the road.
Together they would form the next government.
This information formed the basis of the report.
3. [ I ] ( ALSO form up ) SLIGHTLY FORMAL If separate things form, they come
together to make a whole
The children formed into lines.
The procession formed up and moved off slowly.
form noun DOCUMENT
1. [ C ] a paper or set of papers printed with spaces in which answers to questions
can be written or information can be recorded in an organized way
an application form (= document used for asking officially for something, for
example a job)
an entry form (= document used to enter a competition)
Please fill in/out the form with black ink.
When you have completed the form, hand it in at the desk.
form noun TYPE
2. [ C ] a type of something
Swimming is the best form of exercise.
form noun SHAPE
3. [ C ] the shape or appearance of something
I could just about make out his sleeping form on the bed.
The moon highlighted the shadowy forms of the hills.
The lawn was laid out in the form of the figure eight.
4. take form
to gradually be seen or gradually develop
Trees and hedges started to take form as the fog cleared.
As they chatted, the idea of a holiday together gradually took form.
form noun ABILITY
5. [ U ] A competitor's form is their ability to be successful over a period of time
Both horses have shown good form over the last season.
After a bad year, she has regained her form.
6. be on good/great, etc. form UK ( US be in good/great, etc. form )
to be feeling or performing well
Paul was on good form at the wedding and kept everyone entertained.
form noun GRAMMAR
7. [ C ] a part of a verb, or a different but related word
The continuous form of 'stand' is 'standing'.
'Stood' is an inflected form of 'stand'.
'Hers' is the possessive form of 'her'.
'Isn't' is the short form of 'is not'.
form noun SCHOOL GROUP
8. [ C ] in the UK, a class of school children or a group of classes of children of a
similar age
form noun BEHAVIOUR
9. bad form OLD-FASHIONED
rude behaviour
Was that bad form then, leaving so early?
form noun SEAT
10. [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED a long thin seat, usually without a back
formal adjective OFFICIAL
1. public or official
formal procedures
a formal announcement
2. in appearance or by name only
I am the formal leader of the project but the everyday management is in the
hands of my assistant.
formal adjective SERIOUS
3. describes language, clothes and behaviour that are serious and correct
a formal dinner party
formal adjective EDUCATION
4. describes education or training received in a school or college
Tom had little in the way of a formal education .
formal adjective GARDEN
5. A formal garden is carefully designed and kept according to a plan, and it is not
allowed to grow naturally.
formal adjective OFFICIAL
1. public or official
formal procedures
a formal announcement
2. in appearance or by name only
I am the formal leader of the project but the everyday management is in the
hands of my assistant.
formal adjective SERIOUS
3. describes language, clothes and behaviour that are serious and correct
a formal dinner party
formal adjective EDUCATION
4. describes education or training received in a school or college
Tom had little in the way of a formal education .
formal adjective GARDEN
5. A formal garden is carefully designed and kept according to a plan, and it is not
allowed to grow naturally.
formality noun ACTION
1. [ C ] something which has to be done but which has no real importance
You'll have to sign the visitors' book, but it's just a formality.
2. formalities
something that the law or an official process says must be done
We'll have to observe the formalities (= do what is expected) .
formality noun SERIOUSNESS
3. [ U ] when something or someone is serious and correct
She found the formality of the occasion rather daunting.
A note of formality in his voice alerted her to the fact that others were listening.
formalize , UK USUALLY formalise verb [ T ]
to make something official or decide to arrange it according to a fixed structure
They started as informal gatherings but they have become increasingly formalized
in the last few years.
We need to formalize our initial thoughts about the way to proceed.
formally adverb OFFICIALLY
1. officially
The deal will be formally announced on Tuesday.
formally adverb SERIOUSLY/CORRECTLY
2. in a serious and correct way
He was formally dressed in a grey suit.
The headteacher greeted us very formally.
formally adverb GARDEN
3. (of garden design) in a way that is carefully designed and kept according to a
plan
format noun [ C or U ]
1. a pattern, plan or arrangement
The meeting will have the usual format - introductory session, group work and
then a time for reporting back.
2. SPECIALIZED the way in which information is arranged and stored on a computer
format verb [ T ]
1. to organize or arrange text, especially on a computer, according to a chosen
pattern
2. to prepare a computer disk for use with a particular type of computer
formation noun
1. [ C ] the way something is naturally made or the way it has been arranged
a rock formation
cloud formations
2. [ U ] the development of something into a particular thing or shape
the formation of a crystal
3. in formation
Activities which are done in formation are done in a pattern by a number of
people, vehicles, etc moving together
marching in close formation
formation noun
1. [ C ] the way something is naturally made or the way it has been arranged
a rock formation
cloud formations
2. [ U ] the development of something into a particular thing or shape
the formation of a crystal
3. in formation
Activities which are done in formation are done in a pattern by a number of
people, vehicles, etc moving together
marching in close formation
formative adjective FORMAL
relating to the time when someone or something is starting to develop in
character
She spent her formative years in Africa.
a formative experience
a formative period
former adjective [ before noun ]
of or in an earlier time; before the present time or in the past
his former wife
a former employer
the former president of the United States
The house, a former barn, has been attractively converted.
The painting was then restored to its former glory (= returned to its original good
condition) .
It was a long time after the accident before he seemed like his former self (=
behaved in the way he had done before) .
former noun [ S ]
the ˈ former
the first of two people, things or groups previously mentioned
Of the two suggestions, I prefer the former.
Compare the latter
-former suffix
a student of the stated class group
sixth-formers (= students usually aged 16-18)
formerly adverb FORMAL
in the past
The European Union was formerly called the European Community.
the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia noun [ S ]
Formica noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
a type of hard plastic made into a thin sheet which is used to cover table tops and
other pieces of especially kitchen furniture
Formica noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
a type of hard plastic made into a thin sheet which is used to cover table tops and
other pieces of especially kitchen furniture
formidable adjective
causing you to have fear or respect for something or someone because they are
large, powerful or difficult
a formidable obstacle/task
a formidable adversary/enemy/opponent
a formidable intellect
DISAPPROVING the director and his formidable wife
formidably adverb
formless adjective
without clear shape or expression
formula noun
formula noun METHOD/RULE
1. [ C ] a standard or accepted way of doing or making something, the things
needed for it, or a mathematical rule expressed in a set of numbers and letters
We have changed the formula of the washing powder.
We had to learn chemical formulae at school, but I can only remember H 2 O for
water.
There's no magic formula for success.
formula noun BABY'S MILK
2. [ U ] artificial milk which can be given to babies instead of milk from their
mother
formulaic adjective FORMAL
containing or consisting of fixed and repeated groups of words or ideas
The text was dull and formulaic.
formulate verb [ T ]
to develop all the details of a plan for doing something
to formulate a new plan
to formulate legislation
formulation noun [ C or U ]
fornicate verb [ I ] FORMAL DISAPPROVING
to have sex with someone who you are not married to
fornication noun [ U ]
fornicator noun [ C ]
fornicate verb [ I ] FORMAL DISAPPROVING
to have sex with someone who you are not married to
fornication noun [ U ]
fornicator noun [ C ]
forsake verb [ T ] LEAVE
1. LITERARY to leave someone forever, especially when they need you
Do not forsake me!
forsake verb [ T ] STOP
2. FORMAL to stop doing or having something
He decided to forsake politics for journalism.
forswear verb [ T ] FORMAL
to make a serious decision to stop doing something
to forswear alcohol
forsythia noun [ C ]
a medium-sized bush grown in gardens, which has yellow flowers before the
leaves appear
fort noun [ C ]
a military building consisting of an area surrounded by a strong wall, in which
soldiers live and which is designed to be defended from attack
The remains of the Roman fort are well preserved.
forte noun [ C usually singular ]
a strong ability, something that a person can do well
I'm afraid sewing isn't one of my fortes.
forth adverb FORMAL
(from a place) out or away, or (from a point in time) forward
They set forth on their travels in early June.
From that day forth he never drank again.
forthcoming adjective SOON
1. [ before noun ] happening soon
We have just received the information about the forthcoming conference.
forthcoming adjective WILLING
2. friendly and helpful, willing to give information or to talk
I had difficulty getting any details. He wasn't very forthcoming.
forthcoming adjective SUPPLIED
3. [ after verb ] produced, supplied, given
No explanation for his absence was forthcoming.
Will financial support for the theatre project be forthcoming?
forthright adjective
(too) honest or direct in behaviour
His forthright manner can be mistaken for rudeness.
I admire her forthright way of dealing with people.
forthrightness noun [ U ]
forthright adjective
(too) honest or direct in behaviour
His forthright manner can be mistaken for rudeness.
I admire her forthright way of dealing with people.
forthrightness noun [ U ]
forthwith adverb FORMAL
immediately
We expect these practices to cease forthwith.
forties plural noun
1. A person's forties are the period in which they are aged between 40 and 49
She's probably in her early forties.
forties plural noun
2. the forties
the range of temperature between 40° and 49°
The temperature is expected to be in the forties tomorrow.
3. the period of years between 40 and 49 in any century
Our house was built some time in the forties.
fortieth ordinal number
fortieth noun [ C ]
one of forty equal parts of something
fortification noun
1. [ C usually plural ] strong walls, towers, etc. that are built to protect a place
Some of the old fortifications still exist.
The fortifications of the castle were massive and impenetrable.
2. [ U ] the act of fortifying something
ˌ fortified ˈ wine noun [ C or U ]
a wine that contains more alcohol than wines usually do
Sherry and Martini are fortified wines.
fortify verb [ T ]
to strengthen something, especially in order to protect it
a fortified town
They hurriedly fortified the village with barricades of carts.
The argument had fortified her resolve to prove she was right.
He fortified himself with a drink and a sandwich before driving on.
a fruit drink fortified with vitamin C (= with vitamin C added)
fortitude noun [ U ] FORMAL
bravery over a long period
I thought she showed remarkable fortitude during that period.
fortitude noun [ U ] FORMAL
bravery over a long period
I thought she showed remarkable fortitude during that period.
Fort Knox noun HUMOROUS
be like Fort Knox
If a building or an area is like Fort Knox, it is impossible to enter or leave it
because it is so well protected.
fortnight noun [ C usually singular ] UK
a period of two weeks
a fortnight's holiday
once a fortnight
a fortnight ago
fortnightly adjective , adverb
happening every two weeks
We make a fortnightly check on supplies.
The group meets fortnightly on Tuesdays.
fortress noun [ C ]
a large strong building or group of buildings which can be defended from attack
fortuitous adjective FORMAL
(of something that is to your advantage) not planned, happening by chance
The timing of the meeting is certainly fortuitous.
The collapse of its rivals brought fortuitous gains to the company.
fortuitously adverb
fortuitousness noun [ U ]
fortunate adjective APPROVING
lucky
[ + to infinitive ] You're very fortunate to have found such a lovely house.
He was fortunate in his choice of assistant.
[ + that ] It was fortunate that they had left in plenty of time.
Opposite unfortunate
fortunately adverb
happening because of good luck
Fortunately, we got home before it started to rain.
Opposite unfortunately
fortunately adverb
happening because of good luck
Fortunately, we got home before it started to rain.
Opposite unfortunately
fortune noun WEALTH
1. [ C ] a large amount of money, goods, property, etc
She inherited a fortune from her grandmother.
He lost a fortune gambling.
You can make a fortune out of junk if you call it 'antiques'.
This dress cost a (small) fortune.
Any painting by Van Gogh is worth a fortune.
fortune noun CHANCE
2. [ C or U ] chance and the way it affects your life
He had the (good) fortune to train with some of the world's top athletes.
The family's fortunes changed overnight.
3. tell sb's fortune
to discover what will happen to someone in the future, for example by looking at
the lines on their hands or using a special set of cards
fortune smiles on sb
If fortune smiles on you, you are lucky and good things happen to you.
ˈ fortune ˌ cookie noun [ C ]
a biscuit containing a message, usually about your future, eaten especially after a
Chinese meal
ˈ fortune ˌ hunter noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
someone who tries to marry a person who has a lot of money
ˈ fortune ˌ teller noun [ C ]
a person who tells you what they think will happen to you in the future
forty number
the number 40
thirty, forty, fifty
He looks about forty.
ˌ forty ˈ winks plural noun INFORMAL
a short sleep during the day
He usually has forty winks going home on the train.
ˌ forty ˈ winks plural noun INFORMAL
a short sleep during the day
He usually has forty winks going home on the train.
forum noun [ C ] MEETING
1. a situation or meeting in which people can talk about a problem or matter
especially of public interest
a forum for debate/discussion
forum noun [ C ] INTERNET
2. a place on the Internet where people can leave messages or discuss particular
subjects with other people at the same time
Discussion forums are a way of contacting people with similar interests from all
over the world.
forum noun [ C ] ANCIENT ROME
3. in ancient Rome, the area in the middle of the town used for public business
forward adverb ( ALSO forwards ) DIRECTION
1. towards the direction that is in front of you
She leaned forward to whisper something in my ear.
forward adverb ( ALSO forwards ) FUTURE
2. towards the future
I always look forward, not back.
3. from that day forward FORMAL
after that point
From that day forward they never spoke to each other.
forward adverb ( ALSO forwards ) PROGRESS
4. used in expressions related to progress
This is a big step forward for democracy.
forward adjective DIRECTION
1. towards the direction that is in front of you
forward motion/movement
forward adjective FUTURE
2. relating to the future
forward planning/thinking
forward adjective CONFIDENT
3. DISAPPROVING confident and honest in a way that ignores the usual social rules
and might seem rude
Do you think it was forward of me to invite her to dinner when we'd only just
met?
forward verb [ T ]
to send a letter, etc., especially from someone's old address to their new address,
or to send a letter, email, etc. that you have received to someone else
I'll forward any mail to your new address.
I'll forward his email to you if you're interested.
forward noun [ C ]
a player who is in an attacking position in a team
ˈ forwarding ad ˌ dress noun [ C usually singular ]
where you want your post sent after you have left the address at which it will
arrive
ˈ forwarding ad ˌ dress noun [ C usually singular ]
where you want your post sent after you have left the address at which it will
arrive
forward-looking adjective
Someone who is forward-looking always plans for the future.
forwardness noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the quality of being confident and honest in a way that ignores the usual social
rules and might seem rude
forwards adverb
forward
Compare backwards
ˈ forward ˌ slash noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the symbol / used in computing, in typed commands and Internet addresses
www.cambridge.org/elt
forwent
PAST SIMPLE OF forgo
fossil noun [ C ]
fossil
1. a bone, a shell or the shape of a plant or animal which has been preserved in
rock for a very long period
2. INFORMAL HUMOROUS an old person, especially one who will not accept new ideas
ˈ fossil ˌ fuel noun [ C or U ]
fuels such as gas, coal and oil, which were formed underground from plant and
animal remains millions of years ago
fossilize , UK USUALLY fossilise verb [ I ]
to become a fossil
The remains gradually fossilized.
fossilization , UK USUALLY fossilisation noun [ U ]
fossilized , UK USUALLY fossilised adjective
1. having become a fossil
fossilized bones
2. old-fashioned and never changing
fossilized bones
foster verb TAKE CARE OF
1. [ I or T ] to take care of a child, usually for a limited time, without being the
child's legal parent
Would you consider fostering (a child) ?
Compare adopt
foster verb ENCOURAGE
2. [ T ] to encourage the development or growth of ideas or feelings
I'm trying to foster an interest in classical music in my children.
They were discussing the best way to foster democracy and prosperity in the
former communist countries.
foster adjective [ before noun ]
describes someone or something connected with the care of children, usually for a
limited time, by someone who is not the child's legal parent
a foster care/home/child/mother
She was taken into care by the local council and placed with a foster family .
As a child, he had lived with a succession of foster parents .
fought
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF fight
foul adjective
1. extremely unpleasant
Those toilets smell foul!
I've had a foul day at work.
Why are you in such a foul mood this morning?
What foul weather!
2. describes speech or other language that is offensive, rude or shocking
There's too much foul language on TV these days.
foul noun [ C ]
an act which is against the rules of a sport, often causing injury to another player
He was sent off for a foul on the French captain.
foul verb MAKE DIRTY
1. [ T ] FORMAL to ruin or damage something by making it dirty
Penalty for dogs fouling the pavement - £50.
foul verb SPORT
2. [ I or T ] to do something against the rules of a sport, often causing injury to
another player
foul (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to spoil something by making a mistake or doing something stupid
I don't want David organizing this party after the way he fouled things up last
year.
ˌ foul ˈ ball noun [ C ]
in baseball, a ball hit outside the playing field on either side

fossilized bones
foster verb TAKE CARE OF
1. [ I or T ] to take care of a child, usually for a limited time, without being the
child's legal parent
Would you consider fostering (a child) ?
Compare adopt
foster verb ENCOURAGE
2. [ T ] to encourage the development or growth of ideas or feelings
I'm trying to foster an interest in classical music in my children.
They were discussing the best way to foster democracy and prosperity in the
former communist countries.
foster adjective [ before noun ]
describes someone or something connected with the care of children, usually for a
limited time, by someone who is not the child's legal parent
a foster care/home/child/mother
She was taken into care by the local council and placed with a foster family .
As a child, he had lived with a succession of foster parents .
fought
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF fight
foul adjective
1. extremely unpleasant
Those toilets smell foul!
I've had a foul day at work.
Why are you in such a foul mood this morning?
What foul weather!
2. describes speech or other language that is offensive, rude or shocking
There's too much foul language on TV these days.
foul noun [ C ]
an act which is against the rules of a sport, often causing injury to another player
He was sent off for a foul on the French captain.
foul verb MAKE DIRTY
1. [ T ] FORMAL to ruin or damage something by making it dirty
Penalty for dogs fouling the pavement - £50.
foul verb SPORT
2. [ I or T ] to do something against the rules of a sport, often causing injury to
another player
foul (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to spoil something by making a mistake or doing something stupid
I don't want David organizing this party after the way he fouled things up last
year.
ˌ foul ˈ ball noun [ C ]
in baseball, a ball hit outside the playing field on either side
foul-mouthed adjective
If someone is foul-mouthed, they swear a lot and use offensive language.
ˌ foul ˈ play noun [ U ] CRIME
1. a criminal act which results in serious damage or injury, especially murder
It is not clear what caused the explosion, but the police do not suspect foul play.
ˌ foul ˈ play noun [ U ] SPORT
2. in sport, when someone plays unfairly or acts against the rules
foul-up noun [ C ] INFORMAL
when something is spoilt by a stupid mistake
This investigation has been mismanaged right from the start - I've never seen
such a foul-up.
found verb FIND
1. PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF find
found verb BEGIN
2. [ T ] to bring something into existence
York was founded by the Romans in the year 71 AD.
She left a large sum of money in her will to found a wildlife sanctuary.
We are planning a dinner to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of
the company.
found verb BUILD
3. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] SPECIALIZED to build a support in the
ground for a large structure such as a building or road
4. [ T + adverb or preposition ] to base a belief, claim , idea, etc. on something
Her lawyer accused the prosecution of founding its case on insufficient evidence.
I'd like to see the research that these recommendations are founded on .
a society founded on egalitarian principles
foundation noun BEGIN
1. [ U ] when an organization, state, etc. is established
the foundation of a new state
2. [ C ] an organization that has been established in order to provide money for a
particular group of people in need of help or for a particular type of study
the British Heart Foundation
the Environmental Research Foundation
3. [ U ] UK the first year of infant school, previously known as reception
a foundation class/teacher
Her youngest child starts (in) foundation in September.
foundation noun BUILDING
4. foundations
the structures below the surface of the ground which support a building
The foundations will have to be reinforced to prevent the house from sinking
further into the ground.
foundation noun UNTRUE
5. be without foundation ( ALSO have no foundation )
to be untrue
These allegations are completely without foundation.
foundation noun MAKE-UP
6. [ U ] a type of make-up which is spread over the skin of the face, usually
before other make-up is put on, giving it a better and more even colour and hiding
unwanted marks
lay the foundations of/for
to produce the basic ideas or structures from which something much larger
develops
The two leaders have laid the foundations of a new era in cooperation between
their countries.
He helped to lay the foundations of English drama.
shake/rock sth to its foundations
to seriously damage, upset or change an organization or someone's beliefs
The scandal has shaken the Democratic Party to its foundations.
foun ˈ dation ˌ course noun [ C ] UK ( US introductory course )
a college or university course that introduces students to a subject and prepares
them for studying it at a higher level
foun ˈ dation ˌ stone noun [ C ]
a large block of stone that is put in position at the start of work on a public
building, often with a ceremony
founder noun [ C ]
someone who establishes an organization
She is the founder and managing director of the company.
founder verb [ I ]
1. (especially of a boat) to fill with water and sink
The ferry foundered in a heavy storm, taking many of the passengers and crew
with it.
2. to be unsuccessful
Teaching computers to read and write has always foundered on the unpredictable
human element in language.
founder noun [ C ]
someone who establishes an organization
She is the founder and managing director of the company.
founder verb [ I ]
1. (especially of a boat) to fill with water and sink
The ferry foundered in a heavy storm, taking many of the passengers and crew
with it.
2. to be unsuccessful
Teaching computers to read and write has always foundered on the unpredictable
human element in language.
ˌ founder ˈ member noun [ C ] UK ( US USUALLY founding member )
one of the original members of an organization or rock group
France is a founder member of the European Union.
ˌ founding ˈ father noun [ C ]
someone who establishes an important organization or idea
John Reith was the founding father of the BBC.
foundling noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a young child who is left by its parents and then found and cared for by someone
else
foundry noun [ C ]
a factory where metal is melted and poured into specially shaped containers to
produce objects such as wheels and bars
fount noun LITERARY OR HUMOROUS
the fount of all knowledge/gossip/wisdom, etc.
the person or place from which all information on a particular subject comes
He's renowned as the fount of all knowledge on the disease.
fountain noun [ C ]
fountain
a stream of water that is forced up into the air through a small hole, especially for
decorative effect, or the structure in a lake or pool from which this flows
ˈ fountain ˌ pen noun [ C ]
fountain pen
a pen whose nib (= point at the end which you write with) is supplied with ink
from a container inside it
four number
the number 4
Most animals have four legs.
We need four people to make up a team.
four noun [ C + sing/pl verb ]
1. a team of four people in rowing, or the boat that they use
2. hit a four
in cricket, to get four runs by hitting the ball to the edge of the field
on all fours
on all fours
with your hands and knees on the ground
You'll have to get down on all fours to clean behind the toilet.
four number
the number 4
Most animals have four legs.
We need four people to make up a team.
four noun [ C + sing/pl verb ]
1. a team of four people in rowing, or the boat that they use
2. hit a four
in cricket, to get four runs by hitting the ball to the edge of the field
on all fours
on all fours
with your hands and knees on the ground
You'll have to get down on all fours to clean behind the toilet.
four-by-four noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION 4x4 )
a vehicle whose engine supplies power to all four wheels instead of the usual two,
so that it can travel easily over difficult ground
See also four-wheel drive
four-eyes noun [ S ] INFORMAL
an offensive way of talking to someone who wears glasses
four-leaf clover noun [ C ] ( ALSO four-leaved clover )
a clover (= small plant) with a leaf which is divided into four parts rather than the
usual three, which is thought to bring good luck to anyone who finds it
four-letter word noun [ C ]
a short swear word that is considered to be extremely rude or offensive
Four-letter words are often edited out of films before they are shown on
television.
four-oh-four , 404 adjective [ after verb ] HUMOROUS DISAPPROVING
describes someone stupid who does not know how to use email and computers
Don't bother asking him. He's 404, man.
four-poster (bed) noun [ C ]
four-poster (bed)
a large old-fashioned bed with tall posts at each corner which support a frame
from which curtains hang
foursome noun [ C ] ( ALSO four )
a group of four people meeting for a social activity, such as playing a game or
having a meal
Why don't we invite Caroline and Mark and make up a foursome?
four-square adjective
square or wide and built strongly and firmly
The architecture tends to be four-square and unimaginative.
four-square adverb
with determination
Clarke said he stood four-square behind (= believed strongly in) the Prime
minister's decision.
four-square adjective
square or wide and built strongly and firmly
The architecture tends to be four-square and unimaginative.
four-square adverb
with determination
Clarke said he stood four-square behind (= believed strongly in) the Prime
minister's decision.
four-star adjective [ before noun ]
describes a restaurant or hotel of a very high standard
four-star noun [ U ] UK ( ALSO four-star petrol , US premium (gas) , AUSTRALIAN super
(petrol) )
the highest quality leaded fuel that can be used in cars
fourteen , number
the number 14
twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen
Her baby is fourteen months old.
fourteenth , ordinal number
fourteenth , noun [ C ]
one of fourteen equal parts of something
fourth ordinal number
1. 4th written as a word
My birthday is on the fourth of December.
Daniel was/finished fourth in the race.
2. ESP US a quarter
the ˌ fourth di ˈ mension noun [ S ]
refers to time, especially in science fiction
the ˌ Fourth Es ˈ tate noun [ S ]
newspapers, magazines, television and radio stations and the people who work for
them who are thought to have a lot of political influence
the ˌ Fourth of Ju ˈ ly noun [ S ] ( FORMAL Independence Day )
a national holiday in the US that celebrates the country's independence from
Great Britain in 1776
four-wheel drive noun
1. [ C or U ] ( ALSO 4x4 , WRITTEN ABBREVIATION 4WD ) If a vehicle has four-wheel
drive, its engine supplies power to all four wheels instead of the usual two, so that the
vehicle can travel easily over difficult ground.
2. [ C ] a vehicle that uses this system
four-wheel drive adjective
a four-wheel drive car
four-wheel drive noun
1. [ C or U ] ( ALSO 4x4 , WRITTEN ABBREVIATION 4WD ) If a vehicle has four-wheel
drive, its engine supplies power to all four wheels instead of the usual two, so that the
vehicle can travel easily over difficult ground.
2. [ C ] a vehicle that uses this system
four-wheel drive adjective
a four-wheel drive car
fowl noun [ C or U ]
1. a bird of a type that is used to produce meat or eggs
2. OLD USE any bird
See also waterfowl ; wildfowl
fox noun ANIMAL
1. [ C ] a wild mammal belonging to the dog family which has a pointed face and
ears, a wide tail covered in fur and often reddish-brown fur
2. [ U ] the skin of this animal used to make coats and hats
fox noun CLEVER PERSON
3. [ C usually singular ] someone who is clever and good at deceiving people
He's a cunning/sly/wily old fox.
fox noun WOMAN
4. [ C ] US INFORMAL a sexually attractive woman
fox verb [ T ] CONFUSE
1. to confuse someone or be too difficult to be understood by someone
This puzzle has well and truly foxed me!
fox verb [ T ] DECEIVE
2. to deceive someone in a clever way
foxglove noun [ C ]
foxglove
a tall thin plant with white, yellow, pink, red or purple bell-shaped flowers growing
all the way up its stem
foxhole noun [ C ]
a small hole dug in the ground during a war or military attack which is used by a
small group of soldiers as a base for firing at the enemy and as a shelter from attack
Compare trench
foxhole noun [ C ]
a small hole dug in the ground during a war or military attack which is used by a
small group of soldiers as a base for firing at the enemy and as a shelter from attack
Compare trench
foxhound noun [ C ]
a type of small dog with ears that hang down and short smooth usually black,
white and light brown fur
foxhunting noun [ U ]
the activity of hunting foxes for entertainment in which people on horses follow
dogs which chase a fox and kill it when they catch it
foxhunt noun [ C ]
ˌ fox ˈ terrier noun [ C ]
a small dog with smooth or rough fur that is white with black or pale brown marks
foxtrot noun [ C ]
(a piece of music for) a type of formal ballroom dance that combines short quick
steps with longer ones in various patterns
foxy adjective ANIMAL
1. like a fox in appearance
foxy adjective GOOD AT DECEIVING
2. good at deceiving people
foxy adjective WOMAN
3. INFORMAL sexy
a foxy chick
foyer noun [ C ]
1. a large open area just inside the entrance of a public building such as a theatre
or a hotel, where people can wait and meet each other
I'll see you downstairs in the foyer in half an hour.
2. US ( UK hall ) the room in a house or apartment leading from the front door to
other rooms, where things like coats and hats are kept
Fr noun [ before noun ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Father when used as a title of a Christian priest,
especially a Roman Catholic or Orthodox priest
Fr McDonald conducted the mass.
Fr noun [ before noun ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Father when used as a title of a Christian priest,
especially a Roman Catholic or Orthodox priest
Fr McDonald conducted the mass.
fracas noun [ S ]
a noisy argument or fight
He was injured in a Saturday-night fracas outside a disco.
The Prime Minister has joined the fracas over the proposed changes to the health
service.
fractal noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a complicated irregular line or pattern in mathematics built from simple repeated
shapes that are reduced in size every time they are repeated
Fractals are used in the study of things like forked lightning and to produce some
types of computer graphics.
The way that the trunk of a tree divides into smaller and smaller branches and
twigs is an approximate fractal pattern.
fraction noun [ C ]
a number that results from dividing one whole number by another, or a small part
of something
¼ and 0.25 are different ways of representing the same fraction.
Although sexual and violent crimes have increased by 10%, they remain only a
tiny/small fraction of the total number of crimes committed each year.
They can produce it at a fraction of the cost of (= much more cheaply than)
traditional methods.
fractional adjective
extremely small
The fall in the value of the yen might result in a fractional increase in interest
rates of perhaps a quarter of one per cent.
fractionally adverb
Despite substantial price cuts, sales have increased only fractionally (= by a very
small amount) .
fractional distillation noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the chemical process of separating different substances that have different boiling
points by heating a liquid mixture until it turns into gas and then cooling and collecting
each substance separately
fractious adjective
easily upset or annoyed, and often complaining
a fractious child
fractiousness noun [ U ]
fractious adjective
easily upset or annoyed, and often complaining
a fractious child
fractiousness noun [ U ]
fracture verb [ I or T ]
1. If something hard, such as a bone, fractures or is fractured, it cracks or breaks
She fractured her skull in the accident.
Two of her ribs fractured when she was thrown from her horse.
A fractured pipe at a steelworks has leaked 20 tons of oil into the Severn estuary.
2. FORMAL to divide an organization or society, or (of an organization or society) to
be divided
Intense disagreement over economic policy risks fracturing the coalition
government.
fracture noun [ C ]
a break or crack in something hard, especially a bone
He suffered/sustained multiple fractures in a motorcycle accident.
He has a hairline fracture (= a thin broken line in the bone) of the wrist.
fragile adjective
easily damaged, broken or harmed
Be careful with that vase - it's very fragile.
The assassination could do serious damage to the fragile peace agreement that
was signed last month.
I felt rather fragile (= weak) for a few days after the operation.
HUMOROUS No breakfast for me, thanks - I'm feeling rather fragile (= ill, upset or
tired) after last night's party.
fragility noun [ U ]
The collapse of the bank is an ominous reminder of the fragility of the world's
banking system.
fragment noun [ C ]
a small piece or a part, especially when broken from something whole
The road was covered with fragments of glass from the shattered window.
Literary scholars are piecing together her last unpublished novel from fragments
of a recently discovered manuscript.
fragment verb [ I or T ]
to break something into small parts or to be broken up in this way
The satellite will fragment and burn up as it falls through the Earth's atmosphere.
The government is planning to fragment the industry before privatizing it.
fragmentation noun [ U ]
It was partly the fragmentation of the opposition which helped to get the
Republicans re-elected.
fragmentary adjective FORMAL
existing only in small parts and not complete
Reports are still fragmentary but it is already clear that the explosion has left
many dead and injured.
fragmentary adjective FORMAL

existing only in small parts and not complete
Reports are still fragmentary but it is already clear that the explosion has left
many dead and injured.
fragment ˈ ation ˌ bomb noun [ C ]
a bomb that has a thick outer covering which breaks into a lot of small pieces that
are thrown in every direction when it explodes
fragmented adjective
consisting of several separate parts
In this increasingly fragmented society, a sense of community is a thing of the
past.
The President has only held onto power because the opposition is so fragmented.
fragrance noun [ C or U ]
1. a sweet or pleasant smell
the delicate fragrance of roses
2. a liquid which people put on their bodies to make themselves smell pleasant
a brand new fragrance for men
fragranced adjective
fragrant adjective
with a pleasant smell
fragrant flowers
The sauce itself was light, fragrant and slightly sweet.
frail adjective
weak or unhealthy, or easily damaged, broken or harmed
a frail old lady
I last saw him just last week and thought how old and frail he looked.
the country's frail economy
frailty noun
1. [ U ] weakness and lack of health or strength
Though ill for most of her life, physical frailty never stopped her from working.
2. [ C or U ] moral weakness
Most of the characters in the novel exhibit those common human frailties -
ignorance and greed.
Tolerant of human frailty in whatever form, she almost never judged people.
frame noun [ C ] BORDER
1. a border which surrounds and supports a picture, door or window
a picture frame
2. frames
the plastic or metal structure that holds together a pair of glasses
See picture frame
frame noun [ C ] STRUCTURE
3. the basic structure of a building, vehicle or piece of furniture that other parts
are added onto
a bicycle frame
See picture frame
4. UK ( US rack ) a wooden or plastic triangular object used to put the balls into
position at the start of a game such as billiards or snooker
See picture frame
5. the size and shape of someone's body
My sister has a much bigger frame than me.
6. frame of mind
the way someone thinks or feels about something at a particular time
The most important thing is to go into the exam in a positive frame of mind.
7. frame of reference
a set of ideas or facts accepted by a person which explains their behaviour,
opinions or decisions
How can Christians and atheists ever come to understand each other when their
frames of reference are so different?
frame noun [ C ] GAME
8. a period of play in some games, such as snooker
She lost the next two frames.
frame noun [ C ] PHOTOGRAPH
9. SPECIALIZED one of the pictures on a strip of photographic film, or one of the
single pictures which together form a television or cinema film
frame verb EXPRESS
1. [ T ] to express something choosing your words carefully
The interview would have been more productive if the questions had been framed
more precisely.
frame verb MAKE GUILTY
2. [ T often passive ] INFORMAL to make a person seem to be guilty of a crime
when they are not, by producing facts or information which are not true
He claimed he'd been framed by the police.
frame verb BORDER
3. [ T ] to fix a border around a picture etc. and often glass in front of it
I keep meaning to get that photo framed.
4. [ T ] to form an edge to something in an attractive way
Her new hairstyle frames her face in a much more flattering way.
frame noun [ C ] BORDER
1. a border which surrounds and supports a picture, door or window
a picture frame
2. frames
the plastic or metal structure that holds together a pair of glasses
See picture frame
frame noun [ C ] STRUCTURE
3. the basic structure of a building, vehicle or piece of furniture that other parts
are added onto
a bicycle frame
See picture frame
4. UK ( US rack ) a wooden or plastic triangular object used to put the balls into
position at the start of a game such as billiards or snooker
See picture frame
5. the size and shape of someone's body
My sister has a much bigger frame than me.
6. frame of mind
the way someone thinks or feels about something at a particular time
The most important thing is to go into the exam in a positive frame of mind.
7. frame of reference
a set of ideas or facts accepted by a person which explains their behaviour,
opinions or decisions
How can Christians and atheists ever come to understand each other when their
frames of reference are so different?
frame noun [ C ] GAME
8. a period of play in some games, such as snooker
She lost the next two frames.
frame noun [ C ] PHOTOGRAPH
9. SPECIALIZED one of the pictures on a strip of photographic film, or one of the
single pictures which together form a television or cinema film
frame verb EXPRESS
1. [ T ] to express something choosing your words carefully
The interview would have been more productive if the questions had been framed
more precisely.
frame verb MAKE GUILTY
2. [ T often passive ] INFORMAL to make a person seem to be guilty of a crime
when they are not, by producing facts or information which are not true
He claimed he'd been framed by the police.
frame verb BORDER
3. [ T ] to fix a border around a picture etc. and often glass in front of it
I keep meaning to get that photo framed.
4. [ T ] to form an edge to something in an attractive way
Her new hairstyle frames her face in a much more flattering way.
framed adjective
surrounded by a border
a framed photograph
a pair of silver-framed spectacles
frame-up noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a situation in which someone is made to seem guilty of a crime although they
have not done it
The organization protested that it was the victim of a politically motivated frame-
up.
framework noun
1. [ C ] a supporting structure around which something can be built
2. a system of rules, ideas or beliefs that is used to plan or decide something
a legal framework for resolving disputes
franc noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Fr )
the standard unit of money used in France, Belgium and Luxembourg before they
started using the Euro, and also used in many African countries that were ruled by
France in the past
France noun [ U ]
franchise noun BUSINESS
1. [ C ] a right to sell a company's products in a particular area using the
company's name
a fast-food franchise
a franchise holder
franchise noun VOTE
2. the franchise
the right to vote in an election, especially for representatives in a parliament or
similar law-making organization
In 1918 the suffragists won the franchise for UK women over the age of 29.
franchise verb [ T ]
to give or sell a franchise to someone
franchising noun [ U ]
franchisee noun [ C ]
someone who is given or sold a franchise
franchisee noun [ C ]
someone who is given or sold a franchise
franchiser , franchisor noun [ C ]
someone who gives or sells a franchise
Franciscan noun [ C ]
a person belonging to a Christian group originally established by St Francis of
Assisi in 1209
Franciscan adjective
Franco- prefix
of or connected with France
the Franco-German border (= the border between France and Germany)
a francophile (= someone who loves France)
francophone adjective [ before noun ]
speaking French as the main or official language
francophone Africa
francophone noun [ C ]
Most of the francophones live in these two provinces.
frank adjective
honest, sincere and telling the truth, even when this might be awkward or make
other people uncomfortable
a full and frank discussion
There followed a frank exchange of views.
The magazine, which gives frank advice about sex and romance, is aimed at the
teenage market.
To be perfectly frank with you, I don't think she's the woman for the job.
frank verb [ T ]
to print a mark on a stamp so that the stamp cannot be used again, or to print a
mark on an envelope to show that the cost of sending it has been paid
Frankenstein noun [ C ] ( ALSO Frankenstein's monster )
something that destroys or harms the person or people who created it
In arming the dictator, the US was creating a Frankenstein who would threaten
their influence in the region.
frankfurter noun [ C ]
a thin red-brown sausage which is preserved using smoke or chemicals and often
eaten with bread
frankfurter noun [ C ]
a thin red-brown sausage which is preserved using smoke or chemicals and often
eaten with bread
frankincense noun [ U ]
a thick sticky liquid that produces a sweet smell when burned and comes from a
tree that grows in eastern Africa and Asia
frankly adverb
1. in an honest and direct way
She spoke very frankly about her experiences.
2. used when giving an honest and direct opinion, often one that might upset
someone
Quite frankly, I think this whole situation is ridiculous.
That's a frankly absurd suggestion.
frankness noun [ U ]
honesty
A lot more frankness is needed in sex education if we are to reduce the number of
teenage pregnancies.
frantic adjective VERY WORRIED/FRIGHTENED
1. almost out of control because of extreme emotion, such as worry
Where on Earth have you been? We've been frantic with worry.
frantic adjective HURRIED
2. done or arranged in a hurry and a state of excitement or confusion
Share prices have soared to a new all-time high in a day of frantic trading on the
stock market.
Rescuers were engaged in a frantic all-night effort to reach the survivors before
their supply of air ran out.
frantically adverb HURRIEDLY
1. done in a hurried way and in a state of excitement or confusion
I've been working frantically all week to get it finished on time.
I got home to find Lara frantically searching for her keys.
frantically adverb SHOWING WORRY OR FEAR
2. in a way that is almost out of control because of extreme emotion, such as
worry
As the helicopter flew overhead, they waved frantically, trying to attract its
attention.
frappé noun [ C ]
a partly frozen drink made of milk or fruit juice, or a strongly alcoholic drink
served with ice
a chocolate/strawberry/crème de menthe frappé
frappé noun [ C ]
a partly frozen drink made of milk or fruit juice, or a strongly alcoholic drink
served with ice
a chocolate/strawberry/crème de menthe frappé
frat noun [ C ]
US INFORMAL FOR fraternity (= a social organization for male university students in
the US and Canada)
fraternal adjective
1. relating to brothers
fraternal rivalry
2. friendly, like brothers
The President's official visit marks the start of a more fraternal relationship
between the two countries.
fraternally adverb
fraternity noun GROUP
1. [ C + singular or plural verb ] a group of people who have the same job or
interest
the legal fraternity (= lawyers)
the criminal fraternity (= criminals)
The racing world is a pretty close-knit fraternity.
2. [ C + singular or plural verb ] ( INFORMAL frat ) US a social organization for male
students at an American or Canadian college
Compare sorority
fraternity noun FRIENDSHIP
3. [ U ] a feeling of friendship and support
He described sport as a symbol of peace and a means of promoting fraternity
between nations.
fraternize , UK USUALLY fraternise verb [ I ]
to meet someone socially, especially someone who belongs to an opposing army
or team, or has a different social position
Do the doctors fraternize much with the nurses here?
He accused the England team of fraternizing too much with the opposition.
fraternization , UK USUALLY fraternisation noun [ U ]
fratricide noun [ U ] FORMAL
the crime of murdering your brother, or killing members of your own group or
country
fratricidal adjective
fraud noun CRIME
1. [ C or U ] the crime of getting money by deceiving people
credit card fraud
He is fighting extradition to Hong Kong to face trial on fraud charges .
fraud noun FALSE
2. [ C ] someone or something that deceives people by saying that they are
someone or something that they are not
She was a psychic who was later revealed to be a fraud.
fraud noun CRIME
1. [ C or U ] the crime of getting money by deceiving people
credit card fraud
He is fighting extradition to Hong Kong to face trial on fraud charges .
fraud noun FALSE
2. [ C ] someone or something that deceives people by saying that they are
someone or something that they are not
She was a psychic who was later revealed to be a fraud.
the ˈ Fraud ˌ Squad noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
a department in the British police force which discovers and takes action against
business fraud
fraudster noun [ C ]
someone who gets money by deceiving people
New measures are needed to prevent fraudsters opening bank accounts with
stolen cheques.
fraudulent adjective CRIME
1. dishonest and illegal
A worrying trend for insurers has been a rise in fraudulent claims .
fraudulent adjective FALSE
2. intended to deceive
They claim that the fall in unemployment is based on a fraudulent manipulation of
statistics.
fraudulence noun [ U ]
fraudulently adverb
fraught adjective FULL OF
1. fraught with
full of unpleasant things such as problems or dangers
The negotiations have been fraught with difficulties/problems right from the
start.
From beginning to end, the airlift was fraught with risks .
fraught adjective ANXIOUS
2. causing or having extreme worry or anxiety
This is one of the most fraught weekends of the year for the security forces.
The atmosphere in the office is rather fraught.
fray verb CLOTH
1. [ I or T ] to become or to cause the threads in cloth or rope to become slightly
separated, forming loose threads at the edge or end
Denim frays so easily.
I'd frayed the edges of my jeans as that was the fashion in those days.
fray verb BECOME ANNOYED
2. [ I ] If your temper frays or your nerves fray, you gradually become upset or
annoyed
Tempers frayed as thousands of motorists began the Christmas holiday with long
waits in traffic jams.
fray around/at the edges
to start to become less effective or successful
Without the unifying forces of the army and the monarchy, it seems, the nation
would begin to fray at the edges.
fray noun [ S ]
the fray
an energetic and often not well organized effort, activity, fight or disagreement
With a third country about to enter (= take part in) the fray, the fighting looks
set to continue.
A good holiday should leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the fray (=
ready to work) again.
frayed adjective CLOTH
1. with the threads at the edge coming loose
frayed cuffs
frayed adjective ANNOYED
2. describes someone's mood when they are feeling worried, upset or annoyed
The whole experience left me with frayed nerves (= feeling worried) .
frayed adjective CLOTH
1. with the threads at the edge coming loose
frayed cuffs
frayed adjective ANNOYED
2. describes someone's mood when they are feeling worried, upset or annoyed
The whole experience left me with frayed nerves (= feeling worried) .
frazzle noun [ S ] TIRED STATE
1. INFORMAL a state of being very tired in a nervous or slightly anxious (= worried
and nervous) way after a lot of mental or physical effort
She's worn herself to a frazzle (= made herself very tired and nervous) trying to
meet the deadline.
frazzle noun [ S ] BURNED
2. UK INFORMAL a state of being completely burned or tired out
I went to answer the phone and when I came back the eggs were burned to a
frazzle.
frazzled adjective TIRED
1. INFORMAL extremely tired in a nervous or slightly worried way after a lot of
mental or physical effort
I've had a stressful day at work and it's left me feeling a bit frazzled.
frazzled adjective BURNED
2. UK INFORMAL burned or dried out after being in the sun or cooking for too long
I'd only been in the sun a couple of hours and my back was frazzled.
By the time I remembered about the meat it was frazzled.
freak noun STRANGE
1. [ C ] a thing, person, animal or event that is extremely unusual or unlikely and
not like any other of its type
I was born with black hair all over my back, like some sort of freak.
The pearl, valued at £75 000, is so big that it has been described as a freak of
nature .
HUMOROUS At my school you were regarded as a freak if you weren't interested in
sport.
freak noun ENTHUSIASTIC PERSON
2. a health/computer/surf, etc. freak INFORMAL
someone who is extremely interested in a particular subject or activity
freak verb [ I or T ] INFORMAL
to become or cause someone to become extremely emotional
My parents freaked when I told them I was pregnant.
He freaked out when he heard he'd got the job.
This song just freaks me out whenever I hear it.
freak adjective [ before noun ]
very unusual or unexpected
She was crushed in a freak (= very unlikely) accident in a cave in France.
A freak whirlwind has destroyed over 20 caravans in west Wales.
freakish adjective ( INFORMAL freaky )
very unusual or unexpected, especially in an unpleasant or strange way
Freakish weather conditions have caused massive traffic hold-ups in the area.
When you're a child you always imagine that your own bodily imperfections are
somehow freakish.
freakishly adverb
freakishness noun [ U ]
somehow freakish.
freakishly adverb
ˈ freak ˌ show noun [ C ]
in the past, an event at which the public came to look at people and animals that
had not developed normally
She felt like something out of a freak show.
freckle noun [ C ]
freckle
a small pale brown spot on the skin, usually on the face, especially of a person
with pale skin
He has red hair and freckles.
Compare mole
freckled adjective ( ALSO freckly )
a freckly complexion
freckle-faced adjective
having a lot of freckles on the face
free adjective , adverb NOT LIMITED
1. not limited or controlled
[ + to infinitive ] Am I free (= Do I have permission) to leave now?
I'll give you a key then you're free to come and go as you please.
Please feel free to interrupt me if you don't understand anything.
The agreement gives companies free access to the markets of member countries.
A great deal has been achieved, most notably free elections (= elections in which
people can vote as they wish) .
2. free and easy
relaxed and informal
The atmosphere in the office is fairly free and easy.
free adjective , adverb NO CHARGE
3. costing nothing; not needing to be paid for
I got some free cinema tickets.
Members all receive a free copy of the monthly newsletter.
The elderly travel free on public transport.
We will install your washing machine free of charge / for free (= without charge)
.
free adjective , adverb NOT IN PRISON
4. not a prisoner any longer, or having unlimited movement
She left the court a free woman after the case against her collapsed because of a
legal technicality.
The new government has decided to set all political prisoners free.
She went/walked free after the charges against her were dropped.
I let the dogs run free in the park.
free adjective , adverb LOOSE
5. not in a fixed position or not joined to anything
Both bookcases stand free of the wall.
The bolts have worked themselves free because of the vibrations.
Rescuers took several hours to cut the survivors free from the wreckage.
a free ride
an opportunity or advantage that someone gets without having done anything to
deserve it
Just because he was the boss's son didn't mean Tim got a free ride.
There's no such thing as a free lunch. SAYING
said to emphasize that you cannot get something for nothing
"I get to travel with my job but the downside is I have to give talks." "Well,
there's no such thing as a free lunch."
free adjective NOT BUSY
1. not doing anything planned or important, or not being used
I do a lot of reading in my free time .
She's in a meeting at the moment, but she should be free to see you in ten
minutes.
I'm working in the café all this week, but I've got a free evening next Monday.
Excuse me, is this seat free (= is anyone intending to sit in this seat) ?
We queued for half an hour waiting for a free space in the car park.
If you take these bags that will give me a free hand to open the door.
free adjective WITHOUT
2. [ after verb ] not having something that is unwanted or unpleasant
Because the organization is a charitable enterprise it is free from tax worldwide.
She'll never be completely free of the disease.
Ensure the wound is free from/of dirt before applying the bandage.
free adjective GIVING/USING OFTEN
3. free with
giving or using frequently or in large amounts
He's rather free with his wife's money.
She's very free with advice but she never seems to act on it herself.
He's very free with his criticism!
4. make free with DISAPPROVING
to use something that belongs to someone else a lot
Don't her parents mind her making free with their house while they're on holiday?
free adjective CHEMICAL
5. In chemistry, if an element is free, it is not combined chemically with anything
else
free oxygen/nitrogen
free verb NOT IN PRISON
1. [ T ] to allow someone to leave a prison or place where they have been kept
After a ten-hour siege the gunman agreed to free the hostages.
Anti-vivisectionists last night freed a number of animals from a laboratory.
free verb MAKE LOOSE
2. [ T ] to move or make loose someone or something that is trapped
Both men were freed from the wreckage after a four-hour operation.
In vain he tried to free the rope around his hands.
free verb REMOVE LIMITS
3. [ T + object + to infinitive ] to remove the limits or controls on someone or
something
Her retirement from politics will free her (= provide her with enough time) to
write her memoirs.
free verb MAKE AVAILABLE
4. [ T ] to make something available for someone to use
They planned to extend the car park, freeing existing parking spaces for visitors.
Can you cancel my meetings - I need to free (up) the afternoon to write this
report.
free sb from/of sth phrasal verb
to help or make life better for someone by taking something unpleasant away
from them
He dedicated his life to freeing the world from famine and disease.
[ R ] I'd like to free my self of some of the responsibilities of this job.
-free suffix NO CHARGE
1. used at the end of words to mean 'without having to pay'
They agreed to let us live there rent-free.
Many banks are now offering interest-free overdrafts to students.
-free suffix WITHOUT
2. used at the end of words to mean 'without'
lead-free fuel
No working environment is entirely stress-free.
The journey was surprisingly hassle-free.
somehow freakish.
freakishly adverb
ˈ freak ˌ show noun [ C ]
in the past, an event at which the public came to look at people and animals that
had not developed normally
She felt like something out of a freak show.
freckle noun [ C ]
freckle
a small pale brown spot on the skin, usually on the face, especially of a person
with pale skin
He has red hair and freckles.
Compare mole
freckled adjective ( ALSO freckly )
a freckly complexion
freckle-faced adjective
having a lot of freckles on the face
free adjective , adverb NOT LIMITED
1. not limited or controlled
[ + to infinitive ] Am I free (= Do I have permission) to leave now?
I'll give you a key then you're free to come and go as you please.
Please feel free to interrupt me if you don't understand anything.
The agreement gives companies free access to the markets of member countries.
A great deal has been achieved, most notably free elections (= elections in which
people can vote as they wish) .
2. free and easy
relaxed and informal
The atmosphere in the office is fairly free and easy.
free adjective , adverb NO CHARGE
3. costing nothing; not needing to be paid for
I got some free cinema tickets.
Members all receive a free copy of the monthly newsletter.
The elderly travel free on public transport.
We will install your washing machine free of charge / for free (= without charge)
.
free adjective , adverb NOT IN PRISON
4. not a prisoner any longer, or having unlimited movement
She left the court a free woman after the case against her collapsed because of a
legal technicality.
The new government has decided to set all political prisoners free.
She went/walked free after the charges against her were dropped.
I let the dogs run free in the park.
free adjective , adverb LOOSE
5. not in a fixed position or not joined to anything
Both bookcases stand free of the wall.
The bolts have worked themselves free because of the vibrations.
Rescuers took several hours to cut the survivors free from the wreckage.
a free ride
an opportunity or advantage that someone gets without having done anything to
deserve it
Just because he was the boss's son didn't mean Tim got a free ride.
There's no such thing as a free lunch. SAYING
said to emphasize that you cannot get something for nothing
"I get to travel with my job but the downside is I have to give talks." "Well,
there's no such thing as a free lunch."
free adjective NOT BUSY
1. not doing anything planned or important, or not being used
I do a lot of reading in my free time .
She's in a meeting at the moment, but she should be free to see you in ten
minutes.
I'm working in the café all this week, but I've got a free evening next Monday.
Excuse me, is this seat free (= is anyone intending to sit in this seat) ?
We queued for half an hour waiting for a free space in the car park.
If you take these bags that will give me a free hand to open the door.
free adjective WITHOUT
2. [ after verb ] not having something that is unwanted or unpleasant
Because the organization is a charitable enterprise it is free from tax worldwide.
She'll never be completely free of the disease.
Ensure the wound is free from/of dirt before applying the bandage.
free adjective GIVING/USING OFTEN
3. free with
giving or using frequently or in large amounts
He's rather free with his wife's money.
She's very free with advice but she never seems to act on it herself.
He's very free with his criticism!
4. make free with DISAPPROVING
to use something that belongs to someone else a lot
Don't her parents mind her making free with their house while they're on holiday?
free adjective CHEMICAL
5. In chemistry, if an element is free, it is not combined chemically with anything
else
free oxygen/nitrogen
free verb NOT IN PRISON
1. [ T ] to allow someone to leave a prison or place where they have been kept
After a ten-hour siege the gunman agreed to free the hostages.
Anti-vivisectionists last night freed a number of animals from a laboratory.
free verb MAKE LOOSE
2. [ T ] to move or make loose someone or something that is trapped
Both men were freed from the wreckage after a four-hour operation.
In vain he tried to free the rope around his hands.
free verb REMOVE LIMITS
3. [ T + object + to infinitive ] to remove the limits or controls on someone or
something
Her retirement from politics will free her (= provide her with enough time) to
write her memoirs.
free verb MAKE AVAILABLE
4. [ T ] to make something available for someone to use
They planned to extend the car park, freeing existing parking spaces for visitors.
Can you cancel my meetings - I need to free (up) the afternoon to write this
report.
free sb from/of sth phrasal verb
to help or make life better for someone by taking something unpleasant away
from them
He dedicated his life to freeing the world from famine and disease.
[ R ] I'd like to free my self of some of the responsibilities of this job.
lead-free fuel
lead-free fuel
ˌ free ˈ agent noun [ C ]
someone whose actions are not limited or controlled by anyone else
ˌ free associ ˈ ation noun [ U ]
a method of trying to see how the human mind works, in which a person says the
first word that they think of after hearing a word that is spoken to them
freebasing noun [ U ] SLANG
the activity of smoking a specially prepared form of the drug cocaine
freebase verb [ I ]
freebie noun [ C ] INFORMAL
something which is given to you without you having to pay for it, especially as a
way of attracting your support for or interest in something
The company's marketing rep was giving out pens and mugs - the usual freebies.
The journalists were all given a freebie lunch.
ˌ Free ˈ Church noun [ C usually singular ]
a Protestant Church that is not part of a country's officially accepted church
ˌ free collective ˈ bargaining noun [ U ] UK SPECIALIZED
formal discussions between workers and employers that are not limited by the law
or government, about pay, working hours and conditions at work
See also collective bargaining
ˌ free ˈ country noun [ C ]
1. a country where the government does not control what people say or do for
political reasons and where people can express their opinions without punishment
The transition from a totalitarian state to a free country will be long and slow.
I can say what I like - it's a free country!
2. a country which is not controlled by another country
freedom noun
1. [ C or U ] the condition or right of being able or allowed to do, say, think, etc.
whatever you want to, without being controlled or limited
I felt such a sense of freedom, up in the hills alone.
Children are allowed much more freedom these days.
[ + to infinitive ] At university, you have the freedom to do what you want.
Everyone should be allowed freedom of choice (= the ability to make their own
choices) .
Freedom of speech and freedom of thought (= The ability to say and think
whatever you want) were both denied under the dictatorship.
They are campaigning for freedom of information (= for any information to be
allowed to be given to anyone who wants it) .
We demand freedom from injustice/persecution (= the condition of not having to
suffer these things) .
Compare liberty
2. [ C ] a right to act in the way you think you should
Being able to vote as you want to is an important political/democratic freedom.
3. [ U ] the state of not being in prison
They regained their freedom after ten years of unjust imprisonment.
4. give sb the freedom of
in Britain, to honour someone by giving them special rights in a particular city
See also freeman
freedom noun
1. [ C or U ] the condition or right of being able or allowed to do, say, think, etc.
whatever you want to, without being controlled or limited
I felt such a sense of freedom, up in the hills alone.
Children are allowed much more freedom these days.
[ + to infinitive ] At university, you have the freedom to do what you want.
Everyone should be allowed freedom of choice (= the ability to make their own
choices) .
Freedom of speech and freedom of thought (= The ability to say and think
whatever you want) were both denied under the dictatorship.
They are campaigning for freedom of information (= for any information to be
allowed to be given to anyone who wants it) .
We demand freedom from injustice/persecution (= the condition of not having to
suffer these things) .
Compare liberty
2. [ C ] a right to act in the way you think you should
Being able to vote as you want to is an important political/democratic freedom.
3. [ U ] the state of not being in prison
They regained their freedom after ten years of unjust imprisonment.
4. give sb the freedom of
in Britain, to honour someone by giving them special rights in a particular city
See also freeman
ˈ freedom ˌ fighter noun [ C ]
a person who uses violent methods to try to remove a government from power
It's often said that one person's freedom fighter is another person's terrorist.
ˌ free ˈ enterprise noun [ U ]
an economic system in which private businesses compete with each other to sell
goods and services in order to make a profit, and in which government control is limited
to protecting the public and running the economy
ˌ free ˈ fall noun [ U ]
1. when something or someone falls quickly under the influence of gravity
2. INFORMAL the process of failing or losing value or strength quickly and
continuously
Only massive changes in government policies will prevent the peso going into
free fall (= falling quickly in value by a large amount) .
free-floating adjective
1. not supporting any particular political party
2. not fixed to anything
free-floating aquatic plants
3. not controlled by any particular system
a free-floating exchange rate system
4. a free-floating feeling is one which is general and does not have an obvious
cause
free-floating anxiety
free-flowing adjective
1. Something that is free-flowing is able to move without anything stopping it
free-flowing rivers
free-flowing traffic
2. happening or done in a continuous and natural way
a free-flowing discussion
a free-flowing style of rugby
3. easily available in large amounts
There was free-flowing champagne at the party.
Freefone noun [ U ]
UK TRADEMARK FOR Freephone
Freefone noun [ U ]
UK TRADEMARK FOR Freephone
free-for-all noun [ S ]
a situation without limits or controls in which people can have or do what they
want they want
The row between the Prime Minister and the opposition leader soon developed
into a free-for-all between MPs from all parties.
free-form adjective
not having or following a particular style or structure
free-form skating
ˌ free ˈ gift noun [ C ]
a product which is given to a customer free when they buy something in order to
encourage people to buy more of it
You get a free gift if you spend more than £20.
freehand adjective , adverb
(of a drawing) done without the help of any special equipment for accurately
creating circles, straight lines, symbols, etc
a freehand sketch
ˌ free ˈ hand noun [ S ]
the right or authority to do anything you consider necessary
The company's given me a free hand to negotiate a deal.
freehold noun [ C ]
legal ownership and control of a building or piece of land for an unlimited time
Who owns the freehold of/on the property?
Compare leasehold
freehold adjective
Are those flats freehold or leasehold?
freeholder noun [ C ]
an owner of a particular building or piece of land
ˌ free ˈ house noun [ C ] UK
a type of bar in the UK which is not owned and controlled by a brewery (=
business which makes beer) so the range of beers and other drinks that it can sell is not
limited
Compare tied house
ˌ free ˈ house noun [ C ] UK
a type of bar in the UK which is not owned and controlled by a brewery (=
business which makes beer) so the range of beers and other drinks that it can sell is not
limited
Compare tied house
ˌ free ˈ jazz noun [ U ]
a type of modern music in which the players do not follow any written structure
ˌ free ˈ kick noun [ C ]
in football, an opportunity to kick the ball without opposition from the other team,
which is allowed when a player from the other team has not obeyed one of the rules
freelance adjective , adverb
doing particular pieces of work for different organizations, rather than working all
the time for a single organization
Most of the journalists I know are/work freelance.
a freelance artist
freelance noun [ C ] ( ALSO freelancer )
someone who is freelance
The firm employs several freelances.
freelance verb [ I ]
to work freelance
I prefer to freelance from home rather than to work in an office.
freeloader noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a person who uses money, food, a room in a house, etc. given by other people,
but who gives nothing to them in exchange
freeloading noun [ U ]
ˌ free ˈ love noun [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED
sexual activity with several partners which does not involve loyalty to any
particular person
freely adverb NOT LIMITED
1. without being controlled or limited
For the first time in months she could move freely.
Exotic foods are freely available in supermarkets.
She freely (= willingly) admits that she's not as fast a runner as she used to be.
We encourage the victims to talk freely (= talk a lot and honestly) about their
experiences.
freely adverb ABLE TO MOVE EASILY
2. in a way which is not fixed or joined to anything, so able to move easily
Remember to apply plenty of oil so that the wheel can rotate freely.
freeman , noun [ C ] UK
a person who has been given particular special rights in a city, as an honour
Paul McCartney was made a freeman of the City of Liverpool.
ˌ free ˈ market noun [ S ]
an economic system with only a small amount of government control, in which
prices and earnings are decided by the level of demand for, and production of goods
and services
In a free market, if demand for a product increases then so does its price.
the free-market economy
Freemason noun [ C ] ( ALSO Mason )
a member of a large, old and powerful secret society for men in which all the
members help each other and use secret signs to communicate with each other
Freemasonry noun [ U ]
1. ( ALSO Masonry ) Freemasons considered as a group, or their beliefs and
activities
2. LITERARY friendly understanding between people who are similar or do similar
things
The two rivals were nevertheless united by the freemasonry of the acting
profession.
ˌ free ˈ pardon noun [ C usually singular ] ( US pardon ) LEGAL
official forgiveness for a crime
The new government is to grant a free pardon to all political prisoners.
Compare royal pardon
ˌ free ˈ pass noun [ C ]
1. a document giving the right to travel on public transport or go to a theatre,
cinema or museum without paying
Annie's the film critic for the local radio station, so she's got a free pass for all the
cinemas in the area.
2. an official document giving the right to travel anywhere without being limited
She managed to obtain a free pass which even allowed her to visit sensitive
military areas.
Freephone , TRADEMARK Freefone noun [ U ]
a system in the UK which allows you to telephone particular organizations without
paying for the call, because the organizations will pay the cost
a 24-hour freephone customer ordering service
For further details, call Freephone 0800 123456/call our Freephone number 0800
123456.
ˌ free ˈ port noun [ C ]
an area near a port or airport to which goods from foreign countries can be
brought without tax being paid if they are sent to another country when they leave this
area
ˌ free ˈ market noun [ S ]
an economic system with only a small amount of government control, in which
prices and earnings are decided by the level of demand for, and production of goods
and services
In a free market, if demand for a product increases then so does its price.
the free-market economy
Freemason noun [ C ] ( ALSO Mason )
a member of a large, old and powerful secret society for men in which all the
members help each other and use secret signs to communicate with each other
Freemasonry noun [ U ]
1. ( ALSO Masonry ) Freemasons considered as a group, or their beliefs and
activities
2. LITERARY friendly understanding between people who are similar or do similar
things
The two rivals were nevertheless united by the freemasonry of the acting
profession.
ˌ free ˈ pardon noun [ C usually singular ] ( US pardon ) LEGAL
official forgiveness for a crime
The new government is to grant a free pardon to all political prisoners.
Compare royal pardon
ˌ free ˈ pass noun [ C ]
1. a document giving the right to travel on public transport or go to a theatre,
cinema or museum without paying
Annie's the film critic for the local radio station, so she's got a free pass for all the
cinemas in the area.
2. an official document giving the right to travel anywhere without being limited
She managed to obtain a free pass which even allowed her to visit sensitive
military areas.
Freephone , TRADEMARK Freefone noun [ U ]
a system in the UK which allows you to telephone particular organizations without
paying for the call, because the organizations will pay the cost
a 24-hour freephone customer ordering service
For further details, call Freephone 0800 123456/call our Freephone number 0800
123456.
ˌ free ˈ port noun [ C ]
an area near a port or airport to which goods from foreign countries can be
brought without tax being paid if they are sent to another country when they leave this
area
Freepost noun [ U ] UK
a system which allows you to send something by post to particular organizations
without payment, because the organizations will pay the cost
ˌ free ˈ press noun [ U ]
If a country has a free press, its newspapers, magazines and television and radio
stations are able to express any opinions they want, even if these criticize the
government and other organisations
How can there be democratic elections without a free press?
ˌ free ˈ radical noun [ C often plural ] SPECIALIZED
a molecule that has an extra electron and therefore reacts very easily with other
molecules
Free radicals have been implicated in cancer and many other serious diseases.
free-range adjective
relating to or produced by farm animals that are allowed to move around outside
and are not kept in cages (= boxes)
free-range eggs/chickens
freesheet noun [ C ] UK
a free newspaper in which local shops or other businesses put advertisements
telling people about their services, and which often gives details of local entertainment
freesia noun [ C ]
a plant with pleasant smelling yellow, white, pink or purple flowers
ˌ free ˈ speech noun [ U ]
the right to express your opinions publicly
ˌ free ˈ spirit noun [ C usually singular ]
a person who does what they want with enjoyment and pleasure and does not feel
limited by the usual rules of social behaviour
free-standing adjective
standing alone and not fixed to a wall, etc
a free-standing bookshelf
FIGURATIVE The electronics division was split off into a freestanding company.
freestyle noun [ S ]
a sports competition, especially a swimming race, in which each competitor can
use any style or method they choose
He won the 400 metres freestyle.
freethinker noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
someone who forms their own opinions and beliefs, especially about religion or
politics, rather than just accepting what is officially or commonly believed and taught
freethinking , adjective
ˌ free ˈ throw noun [ C ]
in basketball, an opportunity to score extra points which is given to a member of
one team if a player from the other team has not obeyed one of the rules
ˌ free-to- ˈ air adjective
Free-to-air television or radio programmes are broadcast to everyone and can be
viewed for free.
ˌ free ˈ trade noun [ U ]
international buying and selling of goods, without limits on the amount of goods
that one country can sell to another, and without special taxes on the goods bought
from a foreign country
a free-trade agreement
freesia noun [ C ]
a plant with pleasant smelling yellow, white, pink or purple flowers
ˌ free ˈ speech noun [ U ]
the right to express your opinions publicly
ˌ free ˈ spirit noun [ C usually singular ]
a person who does what they want with enjoyment and pleasure and does not feel
limited by the usual rules of social behaviour
free-standing adjective
standing alone and not fixed to a wall, etc
a free-standing bookshelf
FIGURATIVE The electronics division was split off into a freestanding company.
freestyle noun [ S ]
a sports competition, especially a swimming race, in which each competitor can
use any style or method they choose
He won the 400 metres freestyle.
freethinker noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
someone who forms their own opinions and beliefs, especially about religion or
politics, rather than just accepting what is officially or commonly believed and taught
freethinking , adjective
ˌ free ˈ throw noun [ C ]
in basketball, an opportunity to score extra points which is given to a member of
one team if a player from the other team has not obeyed one of the rules
ˌ free-to- ˈ air adjective
Free-to-air television or radio programmes are broadcast to everyone and can be
viewed for free.
ˌ free ˈ trade noun [ U ]
international buying and selling of goods, without limits on the amount of goods
that one country can sell to another, and without special taxes on the goods bought
from a foreign country
a free-trade agreement
ˌ free ˈ verse noun [ U ]
poetry whose lines do not have a regular pattern
freeware noun [ U ]
computer programs that you can often copy from the Internet and do not have to
pay for
freeway noun [ C ]
US FOR motorway
freewheel verb [ I ] ( ALSO coast ) UK
to travel, especially down a hill, on a bicycle or in a vehicle without using the legs
or engine to provide power
freewheel verb [ I ] ( ALSO coast ) UK
to travel, especially down a hill, on a bicycle or in a vehicle without using the legs
or engine to provide power
freewheeling adjective INFORMAL
not limited by rules or accepted ways of doing things
a freewheeling lifestyle/society
ˌ free ˈ will noun [ U ]
the ability to decide what to do independently of any outside influence
No one told me to do it - I did it of my own free will.
ˌ free ˈ world noun [ U ]
those countries without Communist governments, or more generally, those
countries whose governments have been chosen in fair elections and whose people have
full human rights
Wherever tyranny, oppression and brutality have threatened the free world, our
two countries have stood for the triumph of good over evil.
freeze verb COLD
1. [ I or T ] If you freeze something, you lower its temperature below 0°C,
causing it to become cold and often hard, and if something freezes, its temperature
goes below 0°C
Water freezes to ice at a temperature of 0°C.
The ground had frozen hard/solid .
When the lake freezes (over) (= turns into ice on the surface) , we can go
skating on it.
Our pipes froze (up) (= the water in them turned to ice) several times last
winter.
The weather forecast says that it is going to freeze tonight (= that the
temperature will be at or below 0°C) .
Without a sleeping bag, you would freeze to death (= become so cold that you
die) out there on the mountainside.
2. [ I or T ] to preserve food by storing it at a very low temperature so that it
becomes hard
I'll freeze any food that's left over.
Most soups freeze (= can be preserved by being stored at a very low
temperature) well.
freeze verb STOP WORKING
3. [ I ] US ( ALSO freeze up ) If an engine or lock freezes, it stops working because
its parts have become stuck and can no longer move
My old bicycle was so rusty that the gears had frozen.
If the lock has frozen up, try lubricating it with oil.
freeze verb STOP MOVING
4. [ I ] If a person or animal that is moving freezes, it stops suddenly and
becomes completely still, especially because of fear
She saw someone outside the window and froze.
"Freeze (= Don't move) or I'll shoot", screamed the gunman.
freeze verb MONEY/PROPERTY
5. [ T ] To freeze something such as pay or prices is to fix them at a particular
level and not allow any increases
The Government has frozen pensions until the end of next year.
6. [ T ] to officially and legally prevent money or property from being used or
moved
When it was obvious the company was going bankrupt, the government ordered
all their assets to be frozen.
be cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey HUMOROUS
to be very cold
freeze sb out phrasal verb [ M ]
to make someone feel that they are not part of a group by being unfriendly
towards them, or to stop someone from being included in an arrangement or activity
I felt I was being frozen out of/from the discussions.
He believed that organizations like theirs were being frozen out.
freeze noun COLD WEATHER
1. [ S ] a period of extremely cold weather
freeze noun STOP
2. [ C ] a temporary stopping of something
The Government has imposed a wage freeze/a freeze on wage increases.
freeze-dry verb [ T ]
to preserve something, especially food, by freezing and then drying it
freeze-dried coffee
freeze-dry verb [ T ]
to preserve something, especially food, by freezing and then drying it
freeze-dried coffee
freeze-frame noun [ C ]
a single picture from a film, or the device on a video recorder that allows you to
stop a film at a particular point and look at a single picture
freezer noun [ C ] ( ALSO deep freeze )
a container, operated by electricity, which preserves food at a very cold
temperature so that it becomes solid and can be kept safely for a long time
a chest/upright freezer
See picture in the kitchen
ˈ freezer com ˌ partment noun [ C ]
a small, very cold part of a fridge used for keeping food at a very cold
temperature for long periods so that it stays fresh
ˈ freezer ˌ pack noun [ C ]
a plastic container filled with water or other liquid which can be frozen and then
put in a container holding food and drink, in order to keep the food and drink cold
freezing adjective , adverb
extremely cold
It 's freezing in here - can I close the window?
They survived for four hours in the freezing water.
After walking through the snow, my feet were freezing.
I had to wait for hours on the freezing cold station platform.
freezing adjective
turning to ice
Freezing fog and icy patches are expected to cause problems for motorists
tonight.
freezing noun [ U ] ( ALSO freezing point )
the temperature (0°C) at which water becomes ice
The temperature was below freezing for most of the day.
freight noun [ U ]
1. goods, but not passengers, that are carried from one place to another, by ship,
aircraft, train or truck, or the system of transporting these goods
The ship carries both freight and passengers.
a freight company
Will the goods be sent by air or sea freight?
freight trains
US The escaped prisoner made his getaway in a freight car/wagon on a train.
2. the money paid for transporting goods
freight verb [ T ]
to send goods by air, sea or train
Grapes from this region are freighted all over the world.
freight adverb
transported as part of a large group of things, by ship, aircraft, train or truck
It would be much cheaper to send the goods freight.
freight noun [ U ]
1. goods, but not passengers, that are carried from one place to another, by ship,
aircraft, train or truck, or the system of transporting these goods
The ship carries both freight and passengers.
a freight company
Will the goods be sent by air or sea freight?
freight trains
US The escaped prisoner made his getaway in a freight car/wagon on a train.
2. the money paid for transporting goods
freight verb [ T ]
to send goods by air, sea or train
Grapes from this region are freighted all over the world.
freight adverb
transported as part of a large group of things, by ship, aircraft, train or truck
It would be much cheaper to send the goods freight.
freighter noun [ C ]
a large ship or aircraft for carrying goods
French noun [ U ]
1. the language that people speak in France, Belgium, parts of Canada and other
countries
2. the French
[ plural ] the people of France
Excuse/Pardon my French. OLD-FASHIONED HUMOROUS
said when you are pretending to be sorry for saying a swear word
That sod Wilkins, excuse my French, has taken my bloody parking space.
French adjective
1. from, belonging to or relating to France
French food/culture/music
French adjective
2. relating to France or to the French language
We spent our holidays in a small French town.
ˌ French ˈ bean noun [ C ]
UK FOR green bean
ˌ French ˈ bread noun [ U ]
a type of usually white bread in the form of a long thin stick with a hard outer
layer
See also baguette
ˌ French Ca ˈ nadian noun [ C ] , adjective
a person from Canada whose first language is French, or of or from that part of
Canada where French is spoken
ˌ French ˈ doors plural noun
MAINLY US FOR French windows
ˌ French ˈ dressing noun [ U ]
1. UK a mixture of oil, vinegar and spices, used to flavour salad
She tossed the lettuce in French dressing.
2. US a mixture of oil, mayonnaise (= a thick cold white sauce) and ketchup (= a
thick cold red sauce) used to flavour salad
Frenchwoman noun [ C ]
a woman who comes from France; see table of Geographical names
frenetic adjective
involving a lot of movement or activity; extremely active, excited or uncontrolled
After weeks of frenetic activity , the job was finally finished.
There was frenetic trading on the Stock Exchange yesterday.
frenetically adverb
frenzied adjective
uncontrolled and excited, sometimes violent
The office was a scene of frenzied activity this morning.
As the evening wore on the dancing got more and more frenzied.
frenzy noun [ C or U ]
(an example of) uncontrolled and excited behaviour or emotion, which is
sometimes violent
In a frenzy of rage she hit him.
the media frenzy over the Princess's death
The audience worked/whipped themselves up into a frenzy as they waited for
her to come on stage.
There was a frenzy of activity on the financial markets yesterday.
In a moment of jealous frenzy, she cut the sleeves off all his shirts.
frequency noun HAPPENING
1. [ C or U ] the number of times something happens within a particular period, or
the fact of something happening often or a large number or times
Complaints about the frequency of trains rose by 201% in the last year.
the increasing frequency of terrorist attacks
It's not the duration of his absences from work so much as the frequency that
worries me.
frequency noun LIGHT/SOUND/RADIO, ETC
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED the number of times that a wave, especially a sound or radio
wave, is produced within a particular period, especially one second
the frequency of light
low frequency radiation
The human ear cannot hear very high-frequency sounds.
3. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a particular number of radio waves produced in a second at
which a radio signal is broadcast
Do you know what frequency the BBC World Service is on ?
frequent adjective
happening often; common
a frequent visitor to the US
A frequent criticism of the proposal has been its high cost.
The most frequent cause of death is heart attack.
The attacks were increasingly frequent and serious.
frequent verb [ T ] FORMAL
to be in or visit a particular place often
a bar frequented by criminals
frequent adjective
frequently adverb
often
frequently asked questions
I see him quite frequently.
The buses run less frequently on Sundays.
fresco noun [ C or U ]
(a picture made by) painting on wet plaster (= mixture of sand, lime and water)
on a wall or ceiling
Michelangelo's famous frescoes are in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
fresh adjective NEW
1. [ before noun ] new; different or another
The original orders were cancelled and I was given fresh instructions.
Fresh evidence has emerged that casts doubts on the men's conviction.
We need to take a fresh look at the problem.
Your coffee is cold - let me make you a fresh cup.
There has been fresh fighting between police and demonstrators.
They decided to move abroad and make a fresh start .
2. [ before noun ] APPROVING new and therefore interesting or exciting
His book offers some fresh insights into the events leading up to the war.
We have tried to come up with a fresh new approach.
fresh adjective RECENT
3. recently made, done, arrived, etc., and especially not yet changed by time
There was a fresh fall of snow during the night.
There's nothing better than fresh bread, straight from the oven.
The house, with its fresh coat of paint, looked lovely in the sunshine.
She's fresh out of/from university and very bright.
The events of last year are still fresh in people's minds (= people can remember
them easily) .
4. be fresh out MAINLY US
If you are fresh out of something, you have just finished or sold all of it, so that
there is no more left.
fresh adjective NATURAL
5. (of food or flowers) in a natural condition rather than artificially preserved by a
process such as freezing
fresh fruit and vegetables
fresh fish/meat
fresh coffee
fresh adjective AIR
6. (of air) clean and cool; found outside rather than in a room
I opened the window to let some fresh air in.
fresh mountain air
I'm just going out for a breath of fresh air.
7. describes weather that is cool and sometimes windy
It was a lovely fresh spring morning.
There's quite a fresh breeze today.
fresh adjective CLEAN
8. clean and pleasant
I felt wonderfully clean and fresh after my shower.
I use a mouthwash to keep my breath fresh.
This wine has a light, fresh taste.
fresh adjective NOT TIRED
9. [ after verb ] energetic and enthusiastic; not tired
I'll deal with this problem in the morning when I'm fresh.
Try and get some sleep on the plane, then you'll arrive feeling fresh.
fresh adjective SKIN
10. (of a face) natural, healthy and young looking
She has a lovely fresh (= clear and smooth) complexion .
fresh adjective NOT SALTY
11. [ before noun ] (of water) not salty
Trout are fresh water fish (= live in water that is not salty) .
These plants are found in fresh water lakes and rivers (= those containing water
that is not salty) .
fresh adjective TOO CONFIDENT
12. INFORMAL being too confident and showing no respect, or showing by your
actions or words that you want to have sex with someone
Don't you get fresh with me, young woman!
He started getting fresh (= behaving in a sexual way) in the cinema, so she
slapped his face.
freshness noun [ U ]
be as fresh as a daisy
to be full of energy and enthusiasm
After a good night's sleep I'll be as fresh as a daisy.
fresh- prefix
recently done
fresh-baked bread
fresh-cut flowers
frequent adjective
frequently adverb
often
frequently asked questions
I see him quite frequently.
The buses run less frequently on Sundays.
fresco noun [ C or U ]
(a picture made by) painting on wet plaster (= mixture of sand, lime and water)
on a wall or ceiling
Michelangelo's famous frescoes are in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
fresh adjective NEW
1. [ before noun ] new; different or another
The original orders were cancelled and I was given fresh instructions.
Fresh evidence has emerged that casts doubts on the men's conviction.
We need to take a fresh look at the problem.
Your coffee is cold - let me make you a fresh cup.
There has been fresh fighting between police and demonstrators.
They decided to move abroad and make a fresh start .
2. [ before noun ] APPROVING new and therefore interesting or exciting
His book offers some fresh insights into the events leading up to the war.
We have tried to come up with a fresh new approach.
fresh adjective RECENT
3. recently made, done, arrived, etc., and especially not yet changed by time
There was a fresh fall of snow during the night.
There's nothing better than fresh bread, straight from the oven.
The house, with its fresh coat of paint, looked lovely in the sunshine.
She's fresh out of/from university and very bright.
The events of last year are still fresh in people's minds (= people can remember
them easily) .
4. be fresh out MAINLY US
If you are fresh out of something, you have just finished or sold all of it, so that
there is no more left.
fresh adjective NATURAL
5. (of food or flowers) in a natural condition rather than artificially preserved by a
process such as freezing
fresh fruit and vegetables
fresh fish/meat
fresh coffee
fresh adjective AIR
6. (of air) clean and cool; found outside rather than in a room
I opened the window to let some fresh air in.
fresh mountain air
I'm just going out for a breath of fresh air.
7. describes weather that is cool and sometimes windy
It was a lovely fresh spring morning.
There's quite a fresh breeze today.
fresh adjective CLEAN
8. clean and pleasant
I felt wonderfully clean and fresh after my shower.
I use a mouthwash to keep my breath fresh.
This wine has a light, fresh taste.
fresh adjective NOT TIRED
9. [ after verb ] energetic and enthusiastic; not tired
I'll deal with this problem in the morning when I'm fresh.
Try and get some sleep on the plane, then you'll arrive feeling fresh.
fresh adjective SKIN
10. (of a face) natural, healthy and young looking
She has a lovely fresh (= clear and smooth) complexion .
fresh adjective NOT SALTY
11. [ before noun ] (of water) not salty
Trout are fresh water fish (= live in water that is not salty) .
These plants are found in fresh water lakes and rivers (= those containing water
that is not salty) .
fresh adjective TOO CONFIDENT
12. INFORMAL being too confident and showing no respect, or showing by your
actions or words that you want to have sex with someone
Don't you get fresh with me, young woman!
He started getting fresh (= behaving in a sexual way) in the cinema, so she
slapped his face.
freshness noun [ U ]
be as fresh as a daisy
to be full of energy and enthusiasm
After a good night's sleep I'll be as fresh as a daisy.
fresh- prefix
recently done
fresh-baked bread
fresh-cut flowers
freshen verb AIR
1. [ T ] ( ALSO freshen up ) to make something cleaner and/or cooler
She opened a window to freshen up the room.
2. [ I ] If a wind freshens, it becomes stronger and cooler
The wind is expected to freshen as it moves in from the east.
freshen verb DRINK
3. [ T ] ( ALSO freshen up ) MAINLY US If you freshen someone's especially alcoholic
drink, you add more to it
Here, let me freshen your drink.
freshen (sb/sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make someone or something clean and pleasant
Would you like to freshen up after your journey?
[ R ] I'm just going to have a shower to freshen myself up.
freshen sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make something different and more interesting or attractive
The Prime Minister has freshened up her Cabinet with a few new faces.
fresher noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
a student who has recently started studying at a college or university
fresh-faced adjective
looking young
fresh-faced 18- and 19-year-old soldiers
freshly adverb
recently done
freshly baked bread
freshly made sandwiches
freshly washed hair
freshman noun [ C ] US
1. ( INFORMAL frosh ) a student in the first year of high school , college, or
university
He's a freshman at Harvard.
Greg and Jody met in their freshman year at college and married soon after they
graduated.
2. someone who has recently started any particular job or activity
a freshman in Congress
a freshman football player
freshwater adjective [ before noun ]
living in or containing water that is not salty
freshwater fish
a freshwater lake/river
Compare salt water
fret verb [ I ]
to be nervous or worried
Don't fret - I'm sure he's OK.
She spent the day fretting about/over what she'd said to Nicky.
fret noun [ C ]
any of the small raised metal bars across the long thin part of a stringed musical
instrument such as a guitar, that show you where to put your fingers on the strings in
order to produce different notes
fretted adjective
Guitars and lutes are fretted musical instruments.
fretboard noun [ C ]
a fingerboard (= long strip of wood on a stringed musical instrument against
which the strings are pressed) with frets such as on a guitar
fretful adjective
behaving in a way that shows you are unhappy, worried or uncomfortable
By midnight the children were tired and fretful (= complaining a lot because they
were unhappy) .
fretfully adverb
fretsaw noun [ C ]
a saw for cutting curves and inside corners in wood
fretwork noun [ U ]
decorative open patterns especially cut out of wood or metal or made in
embroidery
Freudian adjective
relating to the ideas or methods of Sigmund Freud, especially his ideas about the
way in which people's hidden thoughts and feelings influence their behaviour
ˌ Freudian ˈ slip noun [ C ]
something which you say by accident which is different from what you intended to
say, and which seems to show your true thoughts
FRG noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR (the country which used to be called the) Federal Republic of
Germany
Fri noun
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Friday
friable adjective SPECIALIZED
easily broken into small pieces
friar noun [ C ]
a man belonging to one of several Roman Catholic religious groups, whose
members often promise to stay poor
friar noun [ C ]
friary noun [ C ]
a building in which friars live
fricassee noun [ C or U ]
a dish made of pieces of meat, especially chicken or veal (= meat from young
cows) cooked and served in a white sauce
friction noun [ U ] FORCE
1. the force which makes it difficult for one object to slide along the surface of
another or to move through a liquid or gas
When you rub your hands together the friction produces heat.
friction noun [ U ] DISAGREEMENT
2. disagreement or unfriendliness caused by people having different opinions
There's a lot of friction between my wife and my mother.
Politics is a source of considerable friction in our family.
Border clashes have led to increased friction between the two countries.
frictional adjective
Friday noun [ C or U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Fri )
the day of the week after Thursday and before Saturday
Shall we go to the theatre on Friday?
I love Fridays because I leave work early.
fridge noun [ C ] ( ALSO refrigerator , US OLD-FASHIONED ice-box )
a piece of kitchen equipment which uses electricity to preserve food at a cold
temperature
Don't forget to put the milk back in the fridge.
fridge-freezer noun [ C ] ( US USUALLY refrigerator-freezer )
a piece of kitchen equipment divided into two parts which are used to keep food
fresh, one of which is a fridge and the other a freezer
ˈ fridge ˌ magnet noun [ C ]
a small decorative magnet used for fastening messages and notes to a fridge
friar noun [ C ]
friary noun [ C ]
temperature
fried adjective
cooked in hot oil or fat
a fried egg
fried onions
friend noun [ C ] PERSON YOU LIKE
1. a person who you know well and who you like a lot, but who is usually not a
member of your family
She's my best/oldest/closest friend - we've known each other since we were
five.
He's a family friend/friend of the family .
This restaurant was recommended to me by a friend of mine.
We've been friends for years.
José and Pilar are (good) friends of ours.
We're (good) friends with José and Pilar.
She said that she and Peter were just (good) friends (= they were not having a
sexual relationship) .
I've made a lot of friends in this job.
He finds it difficult to make friends.
See also befriend
2. someone who is not an enemy and who you can trust
You don't have to pretend anymore - you're among friends now.
friend noun [ C ] PERSON GIVING MONEY
3. someone who gives money to a theatre, other arts organization or charity in
order to support it
The Friends of the Royal Academy raised £10 000 towards the cost of the
exhibition.
A friend in need (is a friend indeed). SAYING
This means that a friend who helps you when you really need help is a true friend.
have friends in high places
to know important people who can help you get what you want
What are friends for? ( ALSO That's what friends are for. ) SAYING
said to a friend who has thanked you for doing something special for them
With friends like you, who needs enemies? HUMOROUS SAYING
said to or about someone who says he or she is your friend but who is treating
you very badly
Friend noun [ C ]
a Quaker
friendless adjective
without friends
Friendless and jobless, he wondered how he would survive the year.
-friendly suffix
1. used at the end of words to mean 'not harmful'
environmentally-friendly detergent
ozone-friendly aerosols
dolphin-friendly tuna (= fish caught without harming dolphins ) .
2. used at the end of words to mean 'suitable for particular people to use'
a family-friendly restaurant
friendly adjective
1. behaving in a pleasant, kind way towards someone
a friendly face/smile
Our neighbours have always been very friendly to/towards us.
I'm on quite friendly terms with my daughter's teacher.
Are you friendly with (= a friend of) Graham?
Opposite unfriendly
2. describes a place that is pleasant and that makes you feel happy and
comfortable
It's a friendly little restaurant.
3. A friendly game or argument is one which you play or have for pleasure and in
order to practise your skills, rather than playing or arguing seriously with the aim of
winning
We were having a friendly argument about Green politics.
The teams are playing a friendly match on Sunday.
4. Friendly countries and friendly soldiers are ones who are not your enemies and
who are working or fighting with you.
friendliness noun [ U ]
friendly noun [ C ]
a game which is played for enjoyment and in order to practise, not with the aim of
winning points as part of a serious competition
The rugby club has a friendly next week against the Giants.
friar noun [ C ]
friary noun [ C ]
temperature
fried adjective
cooked in hot oil or fat
a fried egg
fried onions
friend noun [ C ] PERSON YOU LIKE
1. a person who you know well and who you like a lot, but who is usually not a
member of your family
She's my best/oldest/closest friend - we've known each other since we were
five.
He's a family friend/friend of the family .
This restaurant was recommended to me by a friend of mine.
We've been friends for years.
José and Pilar are (good) friends of ours.
We're (good) friends with José and Pilar.
She said that she and Peter were just (good) friends (= they were not having a
sexual relationship) .
I've made a lot of friends in this job.
He finds it difficult to make friends.
See also befriend
2. someone who is not an enemy and who you can trust
You don't have to pretend anymore - you're among friends now.
friend noun [ C ] PERSON GIVING MONEY
3. someone who gives money to a theatre, other arts organization or charity in
order to support it
The Friends of the Royal Academy raised £10 000 towards the cost of the
exhibition.
A friend in need (is a friend indeed). SAYING
This means that a friend who helps you when you really need help is a true friend.
have friends in high places
to know important people who can help you get what you want
What are friends for? ( ALSO That's what friends are for. ) SAYING
said to a friend who has thanked you for doing something special for them
With friends like you, who needs enemies? HUMOROUS SAYING
said to or about someone who says he or she is your friend but who is treating
you very badly
Friend noun [ C ]
a Quaker
friendless adjective
without friends
Friendless and jobless, he wondered how he would survive the year.
-friendly suffix
1. used at the end of words to mean 'not harmful'
environmentally-friendly detergent
ozone-friendly aerosols
dolphin-friendly tuna (= fish caught without harming dolphins ) .
2. used at the end of words to mean 'suitable for particular people to use'
a family-friendly restaurant
friendly adjective
1. behaving in a pleasant, kind way towards someone
a friendly face/smile
Our neighbours have always been very friendly to/towards us.
I'm on quite friendly terms with my daughter's teacher.
Are you friendly with (= a friend of) Graham?
Opposite unfriendly
2. describes a place that is pleasant and that makes you feel happy and
comfortable
It's a friendly little restaurant.
3. A friendly game or argument is one which you play or have for pleasure and in
order to practise your skills, rather than playing or arguing seriously with the aim of
winning
We were having a friendly argument about Green politics.
The teams are playing a friendly match on Sunday.
4. Friendly countries and friendly soldiers are ones who are not your enemies and
who are working or fighting with you.
friendliness noun [ U ]
friendly noun [ C ]
a game which is played for enjoyment and in order to practise, not with the aim of
winning points as part of a serious competition
The rugby club has a friendly next week against the Giants.
ˌ friendly ˈ fire noun [ U ]
during a war, shooting that is hitting you from your own side, not from the enemy
Three soldiers were killed by friendly fire when a mortar bomb hit their truck.
ˌ friendly ˈ fire noun [ U ]
during a war, shooting that is hitting you from your own side, not from the enemy
Three soldiers were killed by friendly fire when a mortar bomb hit their truck.
ˈ friendly so ˌ ciety noun [ C ]
in Britain, an organization to which members pay small amounts of money over a
long period so that when they are ill or old they will receive money back
friendship noun [ C or U ]
when two people are friends
Their friendship goes back to when they were at school together.
Did you form any close/lasting friendships while you were at college?
I value her friendship above anything else.
ˌ Friends of the ˈ Earth noun [ + sing/pl verb ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FoE )
an international organization which aims to protect the environment
frier noun [ C ]
a fryer
fries plural noun
French fries
Friesian noun [ C ] MAINLY UK ( MAINLY US Holstein )
a black and white cow that produces a large amount of milk
frieze noun [ C ]
a narrow piece of decoration along a wall, either inside a room or on the outside
of a building just under the roof
frig verb
frig about/around phrasal verb SLANG
to behave stupidly
Stop frigging about, will you!
frigate noun [ C ]
a small fast military ship
frigate noun [ C ]
a small fast military ship
frigging adjective [ before noun ] , adverb OFFENSIVE
used to give more force to an expression of anger
You frigging idiot!
fright noun [ S or U ]
1. the feeling of fear, especially if felt suddenly, or an experience of fear which
happens suddenly
I lay in bed shaking with fright.
You gave her such a fright turning the lights out like that.
You gave me the fright of my life (= a very severe fright) , jumping out of the
shadows like that!
2. take fright
to feel fear
Our dog took fright at the noise of the fireworks and ran indoors.
look a fright OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
to look ugly or stupid
Didn't she look a fright in that dress?
frighten verb [ T ]
to make someone feel fear
He frightens me when he drives so fast.
You'll frighten the baby wearing that mask.
The noise frightened me to death/out of my wits (= gave me a severe fright) .
frighten sb/sth away/off phrasal verb
1. to make a person or animal feel fear in order to make them go away
Be quiet or you'll frighten the deer off.
2. to make someone so nervous that they decide not to do something
Many potential buyers were frightened off by the £1 million price tag.
frighten sb into sth phrasal verb
to make someone so frightened that they do something they did not want to do
frightened adjective
feeling fear or worry
She gets frightened when he shouts at her.
The policewoman found a frightened child in the hut.
Are you frightened of spiders?
I was frightened (that) you would fall.
Don't be frightened to complain if the service is bad.
frightened adjective
feeling fear or worry
She gets frightened when he shouts at her.
The policewoman found a frightened child in the hut.
Are you frightened of spiders?
I was frightened (that) you would fall.
Don't be frightened to complain if the service is bad.
frighteners plural noun UK OLD-FASHIONED
put the frighteners on sb
to threaten someone
He said he wouldn't pay up so I sent my brother round to put the frighteners on
him.
frightening adjective
making you feel fear
a frightening thought
a frightening film
It is frightening to think what might happen if she left him.
frighteningly adverb
She looked frighteningly thin.
frightful adjective OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
used to emphasize what you are saying, especially how bad something is
He made a frightful mess in the kitchen.
Of course the cleaning is a frightful bore.
frightfully adverb OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
very
I'm frightfully sorry about the noise last night.
frigid adjective DISLIKING SEX
1. (of a woman) having difficulty in becoming sexually excited
frigid adjective UNFRIENDLY
2. unfriendly or very formal
There's a rather frigid atmosphere in the school.
frigid adjective COLD
3. (of weather conditions or the conditions in a room) extremely cold
Few plants can grow in such a frigid environment.
frigidity noun [ U ]
frigidly adverb
Sarah shook his hand frigidly.
ˈ Frigid ˌ Zones plural noun SPECIALIZED
the cold areas inside the Arctic and Antarctic Circles which receive very little light
from the sun
ˈ Frigid ˌ Zones plural noun SPECIALIZED
the cold areas inside the Arctic and Antarctic Circles which receive very little light
from the sun
frill noun
1. [ C ] a long, narrow strip of cloth with folds along one side which is sewn along
the edge of a piece of clothing or material for decoration
You could always sew a frill or two around the bottom of the skirt if you think it's
too plain.
2. frills
INFORMAL extra things that are added to something to make it more pleasant or
more attractive, but that are not necessary
a cheap, no frills airline
frilly adjective ( ALSO frilled )
with a lot of frills
a baby in a white frilly dress
fringe noun [ C ] EDGE
1. the outer or less important part of an area, group or activity
the southern fringe of the city
the radical fringes of the party
fringe noun [ C ] DECORATION
2. a decorative edge of hanging narrow strips of material or threads on a piece of
clothing or material
a fringe around the edge of a tablecloth
fringe noun [ C ] HAIR
3. UK ( US bangs ) an area of hair hanging over the forehead (= part of the face
above the eyes) that is cut shorter than the rest of the hair
a short fringe
fringe verb
be fringed with sth
If a place is fringed with something, that thing forms a border along the edge
The river is fringed with wild flowers.
ˈ fringe ˌ benefit noun [ C usually plural ]
something that you get because of your job which you get as well as your pay but
is not in the form of money
Fringe benefits include a company car and free health insurance.
fringed adjective
with a fringe
a fringed denim skirt
a robe fringed with fur
fringed adjective
with a fringe
a fringed denim skirt
a robe fringed with fur
frippery noun [ C or U ] DISAPPROVING
a silly decoration or other unnecessary object
fashion fripperies
Frisbee noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
Frisbee
a circular piece of plastic with a curved edge which is thrown between people as a
game
frisée , frisé noun [ U ]
a plant which has green leaves with curly edges which are eaten raw in salads
frisk verb
1. [ T ] to use your hands to search someone's body when they are wearing
clothes for hidden illegal objects or weapons
We were all frisked at the airport.
frisk verb
2. [ I ] to move around in a happy, energetic way
a postcard with a picture of lambs frisking in the fields
frisky adjective INFORMAL
(of a person or an animal) playful or full of activity
It's a beautiful horse but a bit too frisky for an inexperienced rider.
friskily adverb
friskiness noun [ U ]
frisson noun [ C usually singular ]
a sudden feeling of excitement or fear, especially when you think that something
is about to happen
As the music stopped, a frisson of excitement ran through the crowd.
frittata noun [ C or U ]
an Italian dish made by mixing eggs and frying them with small pieces of other
food such as cheese, potatoes or vegetables
frittata noun [ C or U ]
an Italian dish made by mixing eggs and frying them with small pieces of other
food such as cheese, potatoes or vegetables
fritter noun [ C ]
a slice of fruit, vegetable or meat covered with batter (= a mixture of flour, egg
and milk) and then fried
banana/apple fritters
fritter verb
fritter sth away phrasal verb [ M ] DISAPPROVING
to waste money, time or an opportunity
If I've got money in my pocket, I tend to fritter it away.
She fritters so much money away on expensive make-up.
frivolity noun [ C or U ]
silly and thoughtless behaviour, or silly and not important things
You shouldn't treat such a serious subject with frivolity.
I'm far too busy to waste time on frivolities like going to the cinema.
frivolous adjective
1. behaving in a silly and thoughtless way when you should be serious
I think he sees her as a frivolous young woman.
2. describes an activity or object which is silly or not important rather than useful
or serious
I feel like doing something completely frivolous today.
frivolously adverb
frivolousness noun [ U ]
frizz noun [ U ]
when hair is frizzy
This mousse says it's designed to eliminate frizz and make hair glossy and easier
to manage.
frizz verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to make hair frizzy
She's just had her hair frizzed, and I didn't recognise her at first.
frizzled adjective
(of food) fried for too long making it burnt and unpleasant to eat
frizzled bacon
frizzled adjective
(of food) fried for too long making it burnt and unpleasant to eat
frizzled bacon
frizzy adjective DISAPPROVING
(of hair) very curly and not smooth or shiny
My hair goes all frizzy if it gets rained on.
fro adverb
See to and fro
frock noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a dress
a little girl in a pretty frock
ˈ frock ˌ coat noun [ C ]
a short coat with a skirt which reaches the knees, worn by men, especially in the
past
frog noun [ C ]
a small animal which has smooth skin, lives in water and on land, has long
powerful back legs with which it jumps from place to place, has no tail, and is usually
greenish-brown in colour
Frogs make a low noise called a croak.
See also bullfrog
have a frog in your throat
to have difficulty in speaking because your throat feels dry and you want to cough
Frog noun [ C ] UK OFFENSIVE
a French person
frogman noun [ C ]
frogman
someone who swims or works under water for a long time wearing breathing
equipment, flippers (= rubber or plastic shoes which are longer than the feet) and
usually a rubber suit
police frogmen
frogmarch verb [ T usually + adv/prep ]
to force someone who is unwilling to move forward by holding the person's arms
behind their back and then pushing them forward
He was frogmarched off by two police officers.
frogmarch verb [ T usually + adv/prep ]
to force someone who is unwilling to move forward by holding the person's arms
behind their back and then pushing them forward
He was frogmarched off by two police officers.
frogspawn noun [ U ]
a close group of frog's eggs, each egg being a small almost transparent ball with a
black grain near its centre
frolic verb [ I ]
to behave in a happy and playful way
A group of suntanned children were frolicking on the beach.
frolic noun [ C or U ] OLD-FASHIONED
happy and playful behaviour
a harmless frolic
It was all fun and frolics until it began to pour down with rain.
frolicsome adjective LITERARY
enthusiastic and playful
from , preposition PLACE
1. used to show the place where someone or something starts
What time does the flight from Amsterdam arrive?
The wind is coming from the north.
She sent me a postcard from Majorca.
He took a handkerchief from his pocket.
She took her hairbrush from her handbag and began to brush her hair.
So did you really walk all the way from Bond Street?
from , preposition TIME
2. used to show the time when something starts or the time when it was made or
first existed
Drinks will be served from seven o'clock.
The price of petrol will rise by 5p a gallon from tomorrow.
Most of the tapestries in this room date from the seventeenth century.
The museum is open from 9.30 to 6.00 Tuesday to Sunday.
3. from that day/time on(wards) LITERARY
starting at that time and then continuing
From that day on, she vowed never to trust him again.
from , preposition DISTANCE
4. used to show the distance between two places
It's about two kilometres from the airport to your hotel.
We're about a mile from home.
from , preposition ORIGIN
5. used to show the origin of something or someone
"Where are you from?" "I'm from Italy."
I wonder who this card is from.
Could I speak to someone from the sales department?
The sales executive from Unilever is here to see you.
What sort of reaction did you get from him?
from , preposition MATERIAL
6. used to show the material of which something is made
The desk is made from pine.
Meringues are made from sugar and egg whites.
from , preposition LEVEL
7. used to show the level at which a range of things begins, such as numbers or
prices
Prices start from £2.99.
Tickets will cost from $10 to $45.
The number of people employed by the company has risen from 25 to 200 in
three years.
from , preposition CHANGE
8. used to show a change in the state of someone or something
Things went from bad to worse.
She has been promoted from deputy manager to senior manager.
Since the success of her first play, she has gone from strength to strength (= her
success has continued to increase) .
from , preposition CAUSE
9. used to show the cause of something or the reason why something happens
He was rushed to hospital but died from his injuries.
She made her money from investing in property.
You could tell she wasn't lying from the fear in her voice.
Wearing the correct type of clothing will reduce the risk from radiation.
from , preposition CONSIDERING
10. used to show the facts or opinions you consider before making a judgment or
decision
Just from looking at the clouds, I would say it's going to rain.
It's difficult to guess what they will conclude from the evidence.
from , preposition REMOVE
11. used to show that someone has left a place, or that something has been
removed or taken away
They were exiled from their homes during the war.
Her handbag was snatched from her in the street.
A refining process is used to extract usable fuel from crude oil.
12. If you take a smaller amount from a larger amount, you reduce the larger
amount by the smaller one
Three from sixteen is thirteen.
from , preposition DIFFERENCE
13. used to show a difference between two people or things
His opinion could hardly be more different from mine.
The two sisters are so similar that it's almost impossible to tell one from the
other.
from , preposition POSITION
14. used to show the position of something in comparison with other things, or
the point of view of someone when considering a matter or problem
From the restaurant there is a beautiful view of Siena.
She was talking from her own experience of the problem.
From our point of view, we do not see how these changes will be beneficial to the
company.
from , preposition PROTECTION
15. used to show what someone is being protected against
They found shelter from the storm under a large oak tree.
from , preposition PREVENTING
16. used to show what someone is not allowed to do or know, or what has been
stopped happening
He's been banned from driving for six months.
For many years, the truth was kept from the public.
The bank loan saved her company from bankruptcy.
fromage frais noun [ C or U ]
a type of soft, pale cheese which is low in fat, and which is often produced with
fruit flavours and sugar added
frond noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a long thin leaf of a plant
Ferns and palms have fronds.
front noun [ C usually singular ] PLACE
1. the part of a building, object or person's body which faces forward or which is
most often seen or used
The front of the museum is very impressive.
He spilt soup all down his front.
He was lying on his front.
The shop front occupies a very prominent position on the main street.
2. the part of a vehicle which is nearest to its direction of movement
Do you want to sit in the front (= next to the driver) ?
If we sit near the front of the bus, we'll have a better view.
3. the outside part or cover of a book, newspaper, or magazine
There was a picture of the Trevi fountain on the front of the book.
4. one of the first pages in a book
There's an inscription in the front of the book.
5. in front
a. further forward than someone or something else
The car in front suddenly stopped and I went into the back of it.
She started talking to the man in front of her.
b. winning a game or competition
By half time the Italians were well in front.
6. in front of
a. close to the front part of something
There's parking space in front of the hotel.
b. where someone can see or hear you
Please don't swear in front of the children.
7. up front
If you give someone an amount of money up front, you pay them before they do
something for you
He wants all the money up front or he won't do the job.
front noun [ C usually singular ] AREA OF ACTIVITY
8. a particular area of activity
How are things on the work front (= Is the situation at work satisfactory) ?
She's very creative on the design front (= She is very good at design) .
front noun [ C usually singular ] APPEARANCE
9. [ C usually singular ] the character or qualities which a person or organization
appears to have in public which is different from their real character, and whose
purpose is often to deceive people or hide an illegal activity
Don't be fooled by his kindness and sensitivity - it's just a front.
She presents such a cheerful front that you'd never guess she's ill.
The machinery company was a front operation for arms smuggling.
Several trading companies were set up in the early 1960s to act as fronts for
money-laundering operations.
front noun [ C usually singular ] LAND
10. [ C usually singular ] land near the sea or a lake, or the part of a town near
the beach which often has a wide road or path along it
Let's go for a stroll along the front.
The company specializes in building lake-front property.
front noun [ C usually singular ] WEATHER
11. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the place where two masses of air which have different
temperatures meet
A cold/warm front is approaching from the west.
out front INFORMAL
In a theatre, if you say that someone is out front, you mean they are one of the
people watching the performance
Don't worry about your parents being out front tonight.
front adjective [ before noun ]
in or at the front of something
One of his front teeth is missing.
I'd like seats on the front row of the stalls.
a dog's front paws
front verb
1. [ I or T ] ( ALSO front onto ) If a building or area fronts (onto) a particular place,
it is near it and faces it
All the apartments front onto the sea.
2. [ T ] to lead an organization or group of musicians
She fronts a large IT company.
3. be fronted with
If a building is fronted with something, its surface is covered with it
a brick house fronted on three sides with timber
front for sth phrasal verb
If a person fronts for an illegal organization, they help that organization by using
their good reputation to hide its secret activities
The police suspect him of fronting for a crime syndicate.
Front noun [ C usually singular ]
a group of people sharing a political belief who perform actions in public to
achieve their aims
The National Front is an extremely right-wing political party in Britain.
The Animal Liberation Front has claimed responsibility for releasing the monkeys
from the laboratory.
frond noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a long thin leaf of a plant
Ferns and palms have fronds.
front noun [ C usually singular ] PLACE
1. the part of a building, object or person's body which faces forward or which is
most often seen or used
The front of the museum is very impressive.
He spilt soup all down his front.
He was lying on his front.
The shop front occupies a very prominent position on the main street.
2. the part of a vehicle which is nearest to its direction of movement
Do you want to sit in the front (= next to the driver) ?
If we sit near the front of the bus, we'll have a better view.
3. the outside part or cover of a book, newspaper, or magazine
There was a picture of the Trevi fountain on the front of the book.
4. one of the first pages in a book
There's an inscription in the front of the book.
5. in front
a. further forward than someone or something else
The car in front suddenly stopped and I went into the back of it.
She started talking to the man in front of her.
b. winning a game or competition
By half time the Italians were well in front.
6. in front of
a. close to the front part of something
There's parking space in front of the hotel.
b. where someone can see or hear you
Please don't swear in front of the children.
7. up front
If you give someone an amount of money up front, you pay them before they do
something for you
He wants all the money up front or he won't do the job.
front noun [ C usually singular ] AREA OF ACTIVITY
8. a particular area of activity
How are things on the work front (= Is the situation at work satisfactory) ?
She's very creative on the design front (= She is very good at design) .
front noun [ C usually singular ] APPEARANCE
9. [ C usually singular ] the character or qualities which a person or organization
appears to have in public which is different from their real character, and whose
purpose is often to deceive people or hide an illegal activity
Don't be fooled by his kindness and sensitivity - it's just a front.
She presents such a cheerful front that you'd never guess she's ill.
The machinery company was a front operation for arms smuggling.
Several trading companies were set up in the early 1960s to act as fronts for
money-laundering operations.
front noun [ C usually singular ] LAND
10. [ C usually singular ] land near the sea or a lake, or the part of a town near
the beach which often has a wide road or path along it
Let's go for a stroll along the front.
The company specializes in building lake-front property.
front noun [ C usually singular ] WEATHER
11. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the place where two masses of air which have different
temperatures meet
A cold/warm front is approaching from the west.
out front INFORMAL
In a theatre, if you say that someone is out front, you mean they are one of the
people watching the performance
Don't worry about your parents being out front tonight.
front adjective [ before noun ]
in or at the front of something
One of his front teeth is missing.
I'd like seats on the front row of the stalls.
a dog's front paws
front verb
1. [ I or T ] ( ALSO front onto ) If a building or area fronts (onto) a particular place,
it is near it and faces it
All the apartments front onto the sea.
2. [ T ] to lead an organization or group of musicians
She fronts a large IT company.
3. be fronted with
If a building is fronted with something, its surface is covered with it
a brick house fronted on three sides with timber
front for sth phrasal verb
If a person fronts for an illegal organization, they help that organization by using
their good reputation to hide its secret activities
The police suspect him of fronting for a crime syndicate.
Front noun [ C usually singular ]
a group of people sharing a political belief who perform actions in public to
achieve their aims
The National Front is an extremely right-wing political party in Britain.
The Animal Liberation Front has claimed responsibility for releasing the monkeys
from the laboratory.
frontage noun [ C ] FORMAL
the front part of a building which faces a road or river, or land near a road or river
These apartments all have a delightful dockside frontage.
The estate for sale includes two miles of river frontage.
frontal adjective [ before noun ] FORMAL OR SPECIALIZED
1. relating to the front of something
the frontal lobes/regions of the brain
See also full-frontal
2. frontal assault/attack
very strong criticism of someone or something
a frontal attack on the politician
ˌ frontal lo ˈ botomy noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a medical operation on the front part of the brain which is used in treating some
mental diseases
ˈ frontal ˌ system noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a combination of weather conditions in which one or more weather fronts can be
recognised
With so many frontal systems so close together, we can expect the weather to be
highly changeable over the next few days.
frontbench noun [ C ]
(one of the two rows of seats in the British parliament used by) leading members
of the government and leading members of the main opposition party
The Prime Minister's reply was met with howls of laughter from the opposition
frontbench.
a former frontbench Treasury spokeswoman
Compare backbench
frontbencher noun [ C ]
He is the government's longest serving frontbencher.
Compare backbencher
ˌ front ˈ door noun [ C ]
the main entrance to a building, especially a house, which usually faces the road
frontier , noun [ C ]
a border between two countries, or (especially in the past in the United States) a
border between land used to grow crops where people live and wild land
Some of the frontier between Germany and Poland follows the course of the river
Oder
Nepal has frontiers with both India and China.
They lived in a town close to the frontier.
the frontiers of sth
the limits of what is known or what has been done before in an area of knowledge
or an activity
the frontiers of science and technology
frontiersman noun [ C ]
a person who lives on the border between cultivated land (= land used to grow
crops) and wild land, especially in the past in the United States
The book portrays him as a heroic frontiersman of the Wild West.
frontispiece noun [ C ]
the picture which faces the page of a book with the title on
A photograph of the author forms the frontispiece to the book.
the ˌ front ˈ line noun [ S ]
a place where opposing armies face each other in war and where fighting happens
Tens of thousands of soldiers died at the front line.
More front-line troops will be flown to the battle zone over the next few days.
be in the front line
to be in an important position where you have influence, but where you are likely
to be criticized or attacked
Many social workers are in the front line of racial tension.
front loader noun [ C ]
a washing machine with a door at the front, rather than the top, in which you put
your clothes
frontman , front man noun [ C ]
1. the lead singer or band leader of a musical group
Franz Ferdinand frontman Alex Kapranos says their upcoming Albert Hall gig is a
dream come true.
2. someone who appears to be in charge of or representing an organization or
group, but who may not have real authority
3. UK someone who presents a television programme
front-of-house noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the area in a theatre which is used by the public
front-page adjective [ before noun ]
describes information that is so important that it deserves to be printed on the
front page of a newspaper
The story made front-page news.
ˌ front ˈ room noun [ C ] MAINLY UK OLD-FASHIONED
a living room (= room in a house used for relaxing, but not for eating in) that
faces the road
front-runner noun [ C ]
the person, animal or organization that is most likely to win something
She is one of the front-runners in the contest.
front-wheel drive noun [ C ]
a vehicle in which the power from the engine is put directly to the front wheels
rather than the back wheels
frosh noun [ C ]
US INFORMAL FOR freshman (= a first-year student in high school, college or
university)
frost noun [ C or U ]
(a period of time in which there is) an air temperature below the freezing point of
water, or the white, powdery layer of ice which forms in these conditions, especially
outside at night
There was a frost last night.
When I woke up this morning the ground was covered with frost.
There were a lot of hard/heavy (= severe) frosts that winter.
frost verb COLD
1. [ I or T ] to become covered in frost
Our bedroom window frosted up .
Our lawn is frosted over .
frost verb CAKE
2. [ T ] US ( UK ice ) to cover a cake with frosting
Leave the cake to cool before frosting it.
frost verb HAIR
3. [ T ] US to make narrow strips of a person's hair a more pale colour than the
surrounding hair
frost verb GLASS
4. [ T ] to intentionally make glass less smooth to stop it being transparent
frostbite noun [ U ]
injury to someone caused by severe cold, usually to their toes, fingers, ears or
nose
frostbitten adjective
frostbitten fingers/toes
frosted adjective
Frosted glass is less smooth to stop it being transparent
We had frosted glass put in the bathroom window.
frostily adverb
in an unfriendly way
"I didn't ask you to come, " she said, frostily (= in an unfriendly way) .
frosting noun [ U ] US ( UK icing )
a sweet food used to cover or fill cakes, made from sugar and water or sugar and
butter
frosty adjective
1. very cold, with a thin layer of white ice covering everything
Be careful - the pavements are very frosty.
It was a cold and frosty morning.
2. If someone or their behaviour is frosty, they are unfriendly and not welcoming
He gave me a frosty look.
The chairperson's plan received a frosty reception from the committee.
frostiness noun [ U ]
froth noun [ U ] BUBBLES
1. small white bubbles on the surface of a liquid
I like the froth on the top of the coffee.
froth noun [ U ] NOT SERIOUS
2. something which is not serious and has no real value but which is entertaining
or attractive
His books are just froth, but they're enjoyable enough.
froth verb [ I or T ]
1. to (cause a liquid to) have or produce a lot of small bubbles which often rise to
the surface
The waves frothed as they crashed onto the beach.
Shake the drink before serving it to froth it up .
2. froth at the mouth
a. If a person or animal froths at the mouth, a mass of small bubbles appears
from their mouth as the result of a disease.
b. INFORMAL to be extremely angry
frothy adjective
(of a liquid) with small white bubbles on the surface
Beat the mixture until it becomes frothy.
frothy coffee
frou-frou noun [ U ]
decorative pieces added to women's clothing
a frou-frou gown/skirt
frown verb [ I ]
to bring your eyebrows together so that there are lines on your face above your
eyes to show that you are annoyed or worried
She frowned at me, clearly annoyed.
He frowned as he read the instructions, as if puzzled.
frown noun [ C ]
"Leave me alone, " she said with a frown.
frown on/upon sth phrasal verb [ often passive ]
to disapprove of something
Smoking is frowned upon in many restaurants.
frowsty adjective MAINLY UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
(of a room) having an unpleasant smell because of having no fresh air
froze
PAST SIMPLE OF freeze
frozen verb
PAST PARTICIPLE OF freeze
frozen adjective
1. (of water) turned into ice, or (of food) preserved by freezing
They skated over the frozen lake.
We don't have any fresh vegetables, only frozen peas.
2. If a person, or a part of their body is frozen, they are very cold
I'm frozen - could you close the window?
After walking through the snow, my feet were frozen stiff .
FRS noun [ S ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Fellow of the Royal Society: a member of an English society for
scientific study
Dr Helen Muir, FRS
fructose noun [ U ]
a type of sugar found in honey and many fruits
frugal adjective
careful when using money or food, or (of a meal) cheap or small in amount
a frugal lifestyle
a frugal meal of bread and soup
frugality noun [ U ]
frugally adverb
We had very little money left, so we ate frugally in cheap cafés and bars.
fruit noun PLANT PART
1. [ C or U ] the usually sweet-tasting part of a tree or bush which holds seeds
and which can be eaten
Apricots are the one fruit I don't like.
Oranges, apples, pears and bananas are all types of fruit.
Would you like some fruit for dessert?
The cherry tree in our garden is in fruit (= it has fruit growing on it) .
I like exotic fruit, like mangoes and papayas.
How many pieces of fresh fruit do you eat in a day?
fruit trees
He runs a fruit and vegetable stall in the market.
Compare vegetable
See pictures fruit 1 , fruit 2
2. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the part of any plant which holds the seeds
fruit noun RESULT
3. the fruit/fruits of sth
the pleasant or successful result of work or actions
This book is the fruit of 15 years' research.
It's been hard work, but now the business is running smoothly you can sit back
and enjoy the fruits of your labours .
fruit noun PERSON
4. [ C ] US SLANG a male homosexual. Many people consider this word offensive.
fruits of the earth LITERARY
types of food which have come from plants, such as vegetables or wheat
fruit verb [ I ] SPECIALIZED
When a plant fruits, it produces fruit
Over the last few years, our apple trees have been fruiting much earlier than
usual.
ˈ fruit ˌ bat noun [ C ] ( ALSO flying fox )
a large flying mammal which eats fruit and lives in warm or hot countries
fruitcake noun CAKE
1. [ C or U ] a cake containing a lot of dried fruit, such as raisins
fruitcake noun PERSON
2. [ C ] UK SLANG a crazy person
My teacher's a bit of a fruitcake.
fruiterer noun [ C ] MAINLY UK OLD-FASHIONED
a person who sells fruit in a shop or market
ˈ fruit ˌ fly noun [ C ]
a small flying insect which feeds on plants and leaves its eggs on the leaves of
plants
fruitful adjective
1. FORMAL producing good results
It was a most fruitful discussion, with both sides agreeing to adopt a common
policy.
Opposite fruitless
2. OLD USE If a person is fruitful, they produce a lot of children.
fruitfully adverb
fruitfulness noun [ U ] GOOD RESULT
1. when something produces good results
fruitfulness noun [ U ] PLANT
2. LITERARY when plants produce a lot of fruit
She loved the beauty and fruitfulness of the autumn, when the whole countryside
was ablaze with rich golden colours.
fruition noun [ U ] FORMAL
when a plan or an idea begins to happen, exist or be successful
None of his grand plans for a TV series ever came to fruition.
fruitless adjective
If an action or attempt to do something is fruitless, it is unsuccessful or produces
nothing of value
All diplomatic attempts at a peaceful solution to the crisis have been fruitless.
Opposite fruitful
fruitlessly adverb
fruitlessness noun [ U ]
ˈ fruit ma ˌ chine noun [ C ] UK
a slot machine
ˌ fruit ˈ salad noun [ C or U ]
a mixture of pieces of different types of fruit, which is usually served at the end of
a meal
fruity adjective SMELL/TASTE
1. smelling or tasting of fruit
This wine has a delicious fruity flavour.
fruity adjective REMARK
2. (of a remark) humorous in a slightly shocking way
He was well known for his fruity jokes.
fruity adjective VOICE
3. INFORMAL APPROVING (of a voice) deep and pleasant
fruitiness noun [ U ]
a lively wine with a refreshing lemon fruitiness
frump noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a woman who wears old-fashioned clothes which do not look attractive
She looked a frump in her shapeless skirt and flat shoes.
frumpy adjective ( ALSO frumpish ) DISAPPROVING
(of a person or their clothes) old-fashioned and not attractive
I felt fat and frumpy.
a frumpy cardigan
frustrate verb [ T ] DISCOURAGE
1. to make someone feel annoyed or less confident because they cannot achieve
what they want
It frustrates me that I'm not able to put any of my ideas into practice.
frustrate verb [ T ] PREVENT
2. to prevent the plans or efforts of someone or something from being achieved
The continuing civil war is frustrating the efforts of relief agencies.
frustrated adjective
1. feeling annoyed or less confident because you cannot achieve what you want
Are you feeling frustrated in your present job?
2. [ before noun ] describes a person who has not succeeded in a particular type
of job
Frustrated writers often end up in publishing.
3. [ before noun ] A frustrated emotion is one that you are not able to express
her frustrated love for him
4. [ before noun ] unhappy because you are not having as much sex as you want
frustrating adjective
making you feel annoyed or less confident because you cannot achieve what you
want
He doesn't listen to what I say and it's so frustrating.
frustration noun FEELING
1. [ C or U ] when you feel annoyed or less confident because you cannot achieve
what you want; something that makes you feel like this
I could sense his frustration at not being able to help.
This job has more than its fair share of frustrations.
frustration noun PREVENTION
2. [ U ] when something prevents plans or efforts from being achieved
fry verb [ I or T ]
fry
to cook food in hot oil or fat
Fry the mushrooms in a little butter.
INFORMAL FIGURATIVE You'll fry (= burn) if you lie in the sun all day.
fry plural noun
young, small fish
fryer , frier noun [ C ]
1. a large deep pan in which food is fried
I've just bought a deep-fat fryer for cooking chips.
2. US a chicken suitable for frying
ˈ frying ˌ pan noun [ C ] ( US ALSO skillet )
frying pan
a flat metal pan with a long handle which is used for frying food
Out of the frying pan into the fire. SAYING
said when you move from a bad or difficult situation to one which is worse
fry-up noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
a meal consisting of fried meat, eggs and vegetables
the FT noun [ S ]
TRADEMARK ABBREVIATION FOR the Financial Times: a British newspaper for people
who are interested in finance, business and economics
ft noun [ C ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR foot (MEASUREMENT)
The main bedroom measures 24ft by 18ft (24' x 18').
the FTSE 100 (Index) noun [ S ] ( INFORMAL the Footsie ) TRADEMARK
a number which expresses the value of the share prices of the one hundred most
important British companies, which is published by the Financial Times (= a British
newspaper for people interested in business and finance)
The FTSE 100 closed 31.6 points down at 2459.3 in today's trading.
Compare the Dow Jones (industrial) average ; the Nikkei (index)
fuchsia noun [ C ]
fuchsia
a small plant, often grown in gardens, which has red, purple or white flowers that
hang down
fuchsia adjective , noun [ U ]
(having) a colour between pink and purple
fuck verb [ I or T ] OFFENSIVE
to have sex with someone
fuck about/around phrasal verb
to behave stupidly, or to waste time doing things which are not important
Stop fucking around!
fuck sb about phrasal verb
to treat someone badly by wasting their time or causing them problems
I'm warning you, don't fuck me about!
fuck off phrasal verb
to leave or go away, used especially as a rude way of telling someone to go away
Just fuck off and leave me alone!
He's fucked off somewhere and left me to do all the work.
fuck sb off phrasal verb [ M ]
to annoy or upset someone very much
You speak to me as if I'm stupid and it really fucks me off.
fuck (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to damage, harm or upset someone or something, or to do something very badly
Her parents' divorce really fucked her up.
I fucked up the interview.
The exam was a disaster - I really fucked up.
fuck exclamation OFFENSIVE
used when expressing extreme anger, or to add force to what is being said
Fuck - the bloody car won't start!
Shut the fuck up!
Who the fuck does she think she is, telling me what to do?
fuck noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
1. an act of having sex
2. a sexual partner
ˌ fuck ˈ all noun [ U ] OFFENSIVE
nothing
Don't blame me, mate - I had fuck all to do with it!
I've had fuck all to eat all day.
ˌ fuck ˈ all determiner OFFENSIVE
no; not any
Now that the wheel's broken, it's fuck all use to anyone.
fucker noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a stupid person
You stupid fucker!
fucking adjective , adverb OFFENSIVE
used to emphasize a statement, especially an angry one
What a fucking waste of time!
He's a fucking idiot.
He'd fucking well better do it.
fuck-up noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a serious problem
It's been one fuck-up after another since she took charge.
fuck-up noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a serious problem
It's been one fuck-up after another since she took charge.
fuckwit noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a stupid person
Some fuckwit walked off with my bag.
fuddle verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to confuse someone and make them unable to think clearly
The heat had fuddled my brain.
fuddle noun [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL
a confused state
Sometimes he gets in a fuddle and then he can't find things.
fuddy-duddy noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a person who has old-fashioned ideas and opinions
They think I'm an old fuddy-duddy because I don't approve of tattoos.
fudge noun SWEET
1. [ U ] a soft sweet made from sugar, butter and milk
fudge noun AVOID
2. [ C usually singular ] a plan or action which avoids making a clear decision or
giving a clear answer
She suspects that this compromise deal will be nothing more than a fudge.
It's a bit of a fudge but we could put the cost through on next year's budget.
fudge verb [ T ] MAINLY DISAPPROVING
to avoid making a decision or giving a clear answer about something
The government continues to fudge the issue by refusing to give exact figures.
fuel noun
1. [ C or U ] a substance which is used to provide heat or power, usually by being
burned
Wood, coal, oil, petrol and gas are all different kinds of fuel.
Plutonium is a fuel used to produce nuclear energy.
nuclear fuel
unleaded fuel
The new exhaust system, it is claimed, will lower fuel consumption .
2. [ U ] anything that keeps people's ideas or feelings active, or makes them
stronger
Reports in today's newspapers have added fuel to the controversy (= made it
worse) .
add fuel to the fire/flames
to make an argument or bad situation worse
The discovery that the government was aware of the cover-up has really added
fuel to the fire.
fuel verb [ T ]
1. to supply a system with a substance which can be burnt to provide heat or
power
Our heating system is fuelled by gas.
We have a gas-fuelled heating system.
petrol/hydrogen-fuelled cars
2. Something that fuels a feeling or a type of behaviour increases or strengthens
it
The rapid promotion of the director's son has itself fuelled resentment within the
company.
The prime minister's speech fuelled speculation that she is about to resign.
ˈ fuel in ˌ jection noun [ U ]
a system in a vehicle which directs an exact amount of fuel into the engine as
necessary
fuel-injected adjective
a fuel-injected engine/car
ˈ fuel in ˌ jection noun [ U ]
a system in a vehicle which directs an exact amount of fuel into the engine as
necessary
fuel-injected adjective
a fuel-injected engine/car
ˈ fuel ˌ rod noun [ C ]
a part of a device which produces nuclear power
fug noun [ S ]
a condition which can exist in a small, crowded place when the air is not pure,
especially because of smoke or heat
We smiled at each other through a grey fug of cigarette smoke.
fuggy adjective
fugitive noun [ C ]
a person who is running away or hiding from the police or a dangerous situation
Thousands of fugitives are fleeing from the war-torn area.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were fugitives from justice (= they ran
away to avoid being tried in court) .
fugitive adjective TEMPORARY
1. FORMAL (especially of thoughts or feelings) lasting for only a short time;
temporary
a fugitive impression
fugitive adjective PERSON
2. [ before noun ] relating to a fugitive
Fugitive families who have fled the fighting in the cities are now trying to survive
in the mountains.
fugue noun [ C ]
a piece of music consisting of three or more tunes played together
a Bach organ fugue
-ful , suffix HAVING
1. having the stated quality to a high degree, or causing it
colourful
powerful
painful
truthful
beautiful
-ful , suffix AMOUNT
2. the amount of something needed to fill the stated container or place
a spoonful of sugar
a mouthful of tea
a houseful of people
fulcrum noun
1. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the point at which a bar, or something that is balancing, is
supported or balances
A see-saw balances at its fulcrum.
See picture fulcrum
2. [ S ] FORMAL the main thing or person needed to support something or to make
it work or happen
The fulcrum of the debate/argument is the individual's right to choose.
fulcrum noun
See picture fulcrum
it work or happen
fulfil , US USUALLY fulfill verb [ T ] MAKE HAPPEN
1. to do something that is expected, hoped for or promised or to cause it to
happen
A school fails if it does not fulfil the needs/requirements of its pupils.
At the age of 45, she finally fulfilled her ambition to run a marathon.
Zoos fulfil an important function in the protection of rare species.
He has failed to fulfil his duties as a father.
We're looking for a very specific sort of person and this woman seems to fulfil all
of our criteria .
So did the course fulfil all your expectations ?
We're suing our suppliers for failing to fulfil their contract.
fulfil , US USUALLY fulfill verb [ T ] SATISFY
2. to satisfy; to make happy
I don't feel that my present way of life really fulfils me.
[ R ] I've finally found a job in which I can fulfil myself (= completely develop my
abilities and interests) .
fulfilled adjective
feeling happy because you are getting everything that you want from life
For the first time in my life, I feel really fulfilled.
fulfilling adjective
making you feel happy and satisfied
Nursing is hard work, but it can be very fulfilling.
fulfilment , US USUALLY fulfillment noun [ U ] STH YOU DO
1. when someone does something that is necessary or something that they have
wanted or promised to do
For many women, the fulfilment of family obligations prevents the furtherance of
their career.
Being here is the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
fulfilment , US USUALLY fulfillment noun [ U ] FEELING
2. a feeling of pleasure because you are getting what you want from life
She finally found fulfilment in motherhood.
sexual fulfilment
full adjective CONTAINING A LOT
1. (of a container or a space) holding or containing as much as possible or a lot;
filled
This cup is very full so be careful with it.
My plate was already full.
I tried to get in the cinema last night but it was full.
Don't talk with your mouth full!
The shelves were full of books.
When she looked at him her eyes were full of tears.
I tried to get on the 8.45 train but it was full (up) .
Don't fill your glass too full or you'll spill it.
The theatre was only half full.
2. containing a lot of things or people or a lot of something
This sweater is full of holes.
His essay was full of spelling errors.
I'm full of admiration for you.
You're always so full of energy.
3. involving a lot of activities
I've got rather a full week next week - could we postpone our meeting?
She has a very full life.
4. be full of sth
to be talking or thinking a lot about something that you have enjoyed or found
exciting
"Did the kids enjoy their trip to the zoo?" "Oh, yes, they were full of it when they
got back this afternoon."
5. be full of your own importance DISAPPROVING
to think and act as if you are very important
Since he got his new job, he's been very full of his own importance.
6. be full of yourself DISAPPROVING
to think that you are very important in a way that annoys other people
I can't stand her - she's so full of herself.
full adjective COMPLETE
7. [ before noun ] complete; whole; containing a lot of detail
Please give your full name and address.
We do not yet have full details of the story.
Few journalists have managed to convey the full horror of the situation.
The full impact of the tax changes is yet to be felt.
Today's my last full day in Paris.
He unwound the rope to its full extent.
Are you a full member (= do you have all the membership rights) of the club?
Some plants need to be in full sun (= to have the sun shining on them) all the
time.
8. in full
completely
The bill must be paid in full by the end of the month.
9. in full flow
If an activity is in full flow, it is happening fast and with energy
Preparations for the event are now in full flow.
10. be in full swing
If an event is in full swing, it has already been happening for a period of time and
there is a lot of activity
The party was in full swing by the time we arrived.
11. in full view
able to be seen by other people
Andy and Vicki had a furious row outside their house, in full view of the
neighbours.
full adjective GREATEST POSSIBLE
12. [ before noun ] the greatest possible; maximum
James is very bright, but he doesn't make full use of his abilities.
Nobody got full marks (= all the answers right) in the spelling test.
It doesn't seem likely that we will see a return to full employment (= that all the
people in the country will have a job) in the near future.
full adjective FOOD
13. ( ALSO full up ) having eaten so much food that you cannot eat any more
No more cake for me, thanks, I'm full.
14. on a full stomach ( ALSO full up )
having recently eaten
Never go swimming on a full stomach.
full adjective LARGE
15. (of clothing) loose or containing a lot of material, or (of parts of the body)
quite large and rounded
a full skirt
Women often have full faces /become full in the face when they're pregnant.
She has wonderful full lips.
16. used to avoid saying 'fat'
They advertise clothes 'for the fuller figure '.
full adjective STRONG
17. (of a flavour, sound, smell, etc.) strong or deep
This wine has a full fruity flavour.
A cello has a fuller sound than a violin.
(at) full blast
as loud as possible
He had the television on at full blast.
(at) full speed/tilt/pelt
as fast as possible
He was driving at full speed down the motorway when it happened.
(at) full stretch UK
when you are working as hard as possible and could not manage to do any more
The emergency services are working at full stretch today to cope with the
accident.
be full of beans INFORMAL
to have a lot of energy and enthusiasm
I've never known anyone be so full of beans before breakfast.
be full of the joys of spring HUMOROUS
to be very happy
He bounced into the office, full of the joys of spring.
be in full cry
to criticize someone or something in a noisy and eager way
The opposition was in full cry over the changes to the education bill.
come/go/turn full circle
If something or someone has come full circle after changing a lot, they are now
the same as they were in the beginning
Things have come full circle now that long skirts are back in fashion.
full marks to sb
something you say to praise someone for something clever or good that they
have said or done
Full marks to Jo for spotting the error in time.
full steam ahead
with all your energy and enthusiasm
Now that problem is out of the way, it's full steam ahead to get the job finished.
full adverb COMPLETE
1. know full well
to understand a situation completely
You know full well that you're not supposed to go there without asking me!
full adverb STRAIGHT
2. straight; directly
He was kicked full in the stomach.
The intruders turned and ran as the police shone their torches full on them.
full noun
to the full
as much or as well as possible
She certainly lives life to the full.
fulcrum noun
See picture fulcrum
it work or happen
fulfil , US USUALLY fulfill verb [ T ] MAKE HAPPEN
1. to do something that is expected, hoped for or promised or to cause it to
happen
A school fails if it does not fulfil the needs/requirements of its pupils.
At the age of 45, she finally fulfilled her ambition to run a marathon.
Zoos fulfil an important function in the protection of rare species.
He has failed to fulfil his duties as a father.
We're looking for a very specific sort of person and this woman seems to fulfil all
of our criteria .
So did the course fulfil all your expectations ?
We're suing our suppliers for failing to fulfil their contract.
fulfil , US USUALLY fulfill verb [ T ] SATISFY
2. to satisfy; to make happy
I don't feel that my present way of life really fulfils me.
[ R ] I've finally found a job in which I can fulfil myself (= completely develop my
abilities and interests) .
fulfilled adjective
feeling happy because you are getting everything that you want from life
For the first time in my life, I feel really fulfilled.
fulfilling adjective
making you feel happy and satisfied
Nursing is hard work, but it can be very fulfilling.
fulfilment , US USUALLY fulfillment noun [ U ] STH YOU DO
1. when someone does something that is necessary or something that they have
wanted or promised to do
For many women, the fulfilment of family obligations prevents the furtherance of
their career.
Being here is the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
fulfilment , US USUALLY fulfillment noun [ U ] FEELING
2. a feeling of pleasure because you are getting what you want from life
She finally found fulfilment in motherhood.
sexual fulfilment
full adjective CONTAINING A LOT
1. (of a container or a space) holding or containing as much as possible or a lot;
filled
This cup is very full so be careful with it.
My plate was already full.
I tried to get in the cinema last night but it was full.
Don't talk with your mouth full!
The shelves were full of books.
When she looked at him her eyes were full of tears.
I tried to get on the 8.45 train but it was full (up) .
Don't fill your glass too full or you'll spill it.
The theatre was only half full.
2. containing a lot of things or people or a lot of something
This sweater is full of holes.
His essay was full of spelling errors.
I'm full of admiration for you.
You're always so full of energy.
3. involving a lot of activities
I've got rather a full week next week - could we postpone our meeting?
She has a very full life.
4. be full of sth
to be talking or thinking a lot about something that you have enjoyed or found
exciting
"Did the kids enjoy their trip to the zoo?" "Oh, yes, they were full of it when they
got back this afternoon."
5. be full of your own importance DISAPPROVING
to think and act as if you are very important
Since he got his new job, he's been very full of his own importance.
6. be full of yourself DISAPPROVING
to think that you are very important in a way that annoys other people
I can't stand her - she's so full of herself.
full adjective COMPLETE
7. [ before noun ] complete; whole; containing a lot of detail
Please give your full name and address.
We do not yet have full details of the story.
Few journalists have managed to convey the full horror of the situation.
The full impact of the tax changes is yet to be felt.
Today's my last full day in Paris.
He unwound the rope to its full extent.
Are you a full member (= do you have all the membership rights) of the club?
Some plants need to be in full sun (= to have the sun shining on them) all the
time.
8. in full
completely
The bill must be paid in full by the end of the month.
9. in full flow
If an activity is in full flow, it is happening fast and with energy
Preparations for the event are now in full flow.
10. be in full swing
If an event is in full swing, it has already been happening for a period of time and
there is a lot of activity
The party was in full swing by the time we arrived.
11. in full view
able to be seen by other people
Andy and Vicki had a furious row outside their house, in full view of the
neighbours.
full adjective GREATEST POSSIBLE
12. [ before noun ] the greatest possible; maximum
James is very bright, but he doesn't make full use of his abilities.
Nobody got full marks (= all the answers right) in the spelling test.
It doesn't seem likely that we will see a return to full employment (= that all the
people in the country will have a job) in the near future.
full adjective FOOD
13. ( ALSO full up ) having eaten so much food that you cannot eat any more
No more cake for me, thanks, I'm full.
14. on a full stomach ( ALSO full up )
having recently eaten
Never go swimming on a full stomach.
full adjective LARGE
15. (of clothing) loose or containing a lot of material, or (of parts of the body)
quite large and rounded
a full skirt
Women often have full faces /become full in the face when they're pregnant.
She has wonderful full lips.
16. used to avoid saying 'fat'
They advertise clothes 'for the fuller figure '.
full adjective STRONG
17. (of a flavour, sound, smell, etc.) strong or deep
This wine has a full fruity flavour.
A cello has a fuller sound than a violin.
(at) full blast
as loud as possible
He had the television on at full blast.
(at) full speed/tilt/pelt
as fast as possible
He was driving at full speed down the motorway when it happened.
(at) full stretch UK
when you are working as hard as possible and could not manage to do any more
The emergency services are working at full stretch today to cope with the
accident.
be full of beans INFORMAL
to have a lot of energy and enthusiasm
I've never known anyone be so full of beans before breakfast.
be full of the joys of spring HUMOROUS
to be very happy
He bounced into the office, full of the joys of spring.
be in full cry
to criticize someone or something in a noisy and eager way
The opposition was in full cry over the changes to the education bill.
come/go/turn full circle
If something or someone has come full circle after changing a lot, they are now
the same as they were in the beginning
Things have come full circle now that long skirts are back in fashion.
full marks to sb
something you say to praise someone for something clever or good that they
have said or done
Full marks to Jo for spotting the error in time.
full steam ahead
with all your energy and enthusiasm
Now that problem is out of the way, it's full steam ahead to get the job finished.
full adverb COMPLETE
1. know full well
to understand a situation completely
You know full well that you're not supposed to go there without asking me!
full adverb STRAIGHT
2. straight; directly
He was kicked full in the stomach.
The intruders turned and ran as the police shone their torches full on them.
full noun
to the full
as much or as well as possible
She certainly lives life to the full.
fullback noun [ C ]
a defending player in games such as football and hockey who plays near the end
of the field, or a player in American football whose team has control of the ball
full-blooded adjective [ before noun ] RACE
1. having parents, grandparents and earlier relations all belonging to the same
race
a full-blooded Maori
full-blooded adjective [ before noun ] ENTHUSIASTIC
2. enthusiastic and loyal
a full-blooded Liverpool supporter
full-blown adjective [ before noun ] ( ALSO fully-blown )
fully developed
full-blown AIDS
ˌ full ˈ board noun [ U ] UK ( US American plan )
when all your meals are provided at the hotel or rooms that you are paying to
stay in
The price of the holiday includes flights, full board, and all extras.
Compare half board
full-bodied adjective
describes wine with a strong, satisfying quality and taste
a full-bodied red wine
ˌ full ˈ frontal noun [ C ]
a photograph or picture showing someone's body naked and from the front
full-frontal adjective [ before noun ] NO CLOTHES
1. showing someone's body naked and from the front
full frontal nudity
full-frontal pictures
full-frontal adjective [ before noun ] STRONG
2. INFORMAL very strongly and clearly expressed
Cash Junior made a full-frontal assault/attack on Hollywood's 'moral
delinquency'.
full-grown adjective ( MAINLY UK fully-grown )
describes people and other living things that have finished their physical growth
and will not grow taller
A full-grown giraffe is 5.5m tall.
ˌ full ˈ house noun AUDIENCE
1. [ C usually singular ] when every seat in a cinema/theatre/ concert , etc. is
filled
We're expecting a full house tonight.
ˌ full ˈ house noun CARD GAME
2. [ C ] when a card player has three cards of one type and two cards of another
Steve won the poker game with a full house.
ˌ full ˈ length adverb
describes the way a person moves or lies so that their whole body is flat on the
floor
He was lying full length on the grass.
full-length adjective REACHING FLOOR
1. describes a mirror, curtain or piece of clothing that reaches the floor
Victoria wore a full-length evening gown to the ball.
full-length adjective USUAL LENGTH
2. of the usual length and not made shorter
a full-length feature film
the full monty noun UK INFORMAL
the most or best that you can have, do, get or achieve, or all that you want or
need
When we bought the television, we decided to go for the full monty - a large
screen, 38 channels and a video.
do the full monty
to take off all your clothes in front of other people
ˌ full ˈ moon noun [ S ]
the moon when it is shaped like a complete disc, or a time when it is
There's a full moon tonight.
fullness , fulness noun [ U ] CONTAINING A LOT
1. when something is full
fullness , fulness noun [ U ] COMPLETENESS
2. when something is complete or contains a lot of detail
The fullness of the research report (= how much detail it contains) has been
widely praised.
I envy him the fullness of his life (= how busy and interesting his life is) .
fullness , fulness noun [ U ] FOOD
3. having eaten a lot
I've always disliked that feeling of fullness after a large meal.
fullness , fulness noun [ U ] STRONG QUALITY
4. the quality of having a strong flavour, sound, smell, etc.
I like this cheese for the fullness of its flavour.
fullness , fulness noun [ U ] LARGENESS
5. the quality of being large or loose
in the fullness of time
If you say something will happen in the fullness of time, you mean that it will
happen if you wait long enough
Everything will become clear in the fullness of time.
full-on adjective VERY GREAT
1. very great or to the greatest degree
The hotel specializes in full-on luxury.
full-on adjective ENTHUSIASTIC
2. [ after verb ] very serious and enthusiastic, often in a way which is annoying to
other people
full-page adjective [ before noun ]
filling a complete page of a newspaper or book
a full-page advertisement
full-scale adjective FULL SIZE
1. describes a model of the same size as the original thing
full-scale models of dinosaurs
full-scale adjective COMPLETE
2. [ before noun ] complete or using all available methods, equipment, money,
etc
a full-scale investigation
a full-scale attack
full-service adjective [ before noun ] US
describes a business that provides customers with a complete range of services
I need to find a good full-service bank.
ˌ full ˈ stop noun [ C ] UK ( US period )
the punctuation mark (.) that is put at the end of a sentence, or at the end of a
word that has been shortened
come to a full stop
to end, especially because of problems
It looks like negotiations between the two sides have come to a full stop.
ˌ full ˈ stop adverb UK ( US period )
used at the end of a sentence, usually when you are angry, to say you will not
continue to discuss a subject
Look, I'm not lending you my car, full stop!
full-time adjective , adverb
1. (of work or education) done for the whole of a working week
a full-time job
Most children in the UK remain in full-time education until they are at least 16
years old.
She went back to work full-time when her youngest child went to school.
2. full-time job/activity
an activity which uses a lot of your time
Keeping a garden tidy is a full-time job.
ˌ full ˈ time noun [ U ] UK
the end of a sports match
The score was 2-2 at full time.
Compare half-time
-fully , suffix
in a way that shows the stated quality
powerfully
tearfully
truthfully
fully adverb COMPLETELY
1. completely
Have you fully recovered from your illness?
I'd fully intended to call you last night.
I'm sorry, madam, the restaurant is fully booked.
a fully qualified teacher
fully adverb GREATEST POSSIBLE
2. as much as possible
Kate has always participated fully in the life of the school.
Students are advised to answer all questions as fully as possible.
fully-fashioned adjective UK ( US full-fashioned )
describes clothes such as stockings and tights that are made so that they fit the
body exactly
fully-fledged adjective UK ( US full-fledged )
completely developed or trained
What started as a small business is now a fully-fledged company.
After years of study, Tim is now a fully-fledged architect.
fulminate verb [ I usually + adv/prep ] FORMAL
to criticize strongly
I had to listen to Michael fulminating against the government.
fulmination noun [ C or U ]
fulsome adjective FORMAL
expressing a lot of admiration or praise for someone, often too much, in a way
that does not sound sincere
Her new book has received fulsome praise from the critics.
Our guests were fulsome in their compliments about the food.
fulsomely adverb
He thanked her fulsomely for her help.
fulsomeness noun [ U ]
fumble verb DO STH AWKWARDLY
1. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to do something awkwardly, especially
when using your hands
I fumbled with the lock.
He fumbled in his pockets for some change.
She fumbled around/about in her handbag, looking for her key.
They fumbled around/about (= moved awkwardly) in the dark, trying to find
their way out of the cinema.
fumble verb SPORT
2. [ T ] in sport, to fail to catch a ball
If Wilson hadn't fumbled that catch , we might have won the match.
fumble verb THINK OF A WORD
3. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to have difficulty saying or thinking of
suitable words
I was fumbling for the right word.
fume verb [ I ]
to be very angry, sometimes without expressing it
I saw her a week after they'd had the argument and she was still fuming.
The whole episode left me fuming at the injustice of it all.
fumes plural noun
strong, unpleasant and sometimes dangerous gas or smoke
exhaust fumes
Petrol fumes always make me feel ill.
cigar fumes
fumigate verb [ T ]
to use poisonous gas to remove harmful insects, bacteria, disease, etc. from
somewhere or something
We had to fumigate the cellar to get rid of cockroaches.
fumigation noun [ U ]
Two hospital wards have had to be closed for fumigation.
fumigator noun [ C ]
a person who uses chemicals to remove harmful insects or bacteria from buildings
fun noun [ U ] PLEASURE
1. pleasure, enjoyment, entertainment
Have fun (= Enjoy yourself) !
Having fun (= Are you enjoying yourself) ?
I really enjoyed your party - it was such good fun.
She's great fun to be with.
Mark was ill for most of the holiday so that took all the fun out of it.
It's no fun/ not much fun (= not enjoyable) having to work on Saturdays.
a fun -loving girl
"We're going on a picnic at the weekend." " What fun (= how enjoyable) !"
The relationship was never going to work, but it was fun while it lasted.
See common learner error at funny
2. for fun ( ALSO for the fun of it )
for pleasure
I ran but just for fun.
3. make fun of sb/sth
to make a joke about someone or something in a way that is not kind
The other children were always making fun of him because he was fat and wore
glasses.
fun noun [ U ] PLAYFUL ACTIVITY
4. playful and often energetic activity
The children are always full of fun.
I didn't mean to upset her - it was just a bit of fun.
I didn't mean what I said, it was only in fun (= a joke) .
have fun and games HUMOROUS
to have difficulty doing something
We had real fun and games trying to bath the dog.
not be all fun and games
If an activity is not all fun and games, parts of it are difficult or unpleasant
It's not all fun and games being a tour representative.
fun adjective [ before noun ]
enjoyable
There are lots of fun things to do here.
function noun PURPOSE
1. [ C ] the natural purpose (of something) or the duty (of a person)
The function of the veins is to carry blood to the heart.
I'm not quite sure what my function is within the company.
A thermostat performs the function of controlling temperature.
function noun CEREMONY
2. [ C ] an official ceremony or a formal social event, such as a party or a special
meal, at which a lot of people are usually present
As a mayor, he has a lot of official functions to attend .
I see her two or three times a year, usually at social functions.
function noun WORK
3. [ U ] the way in which something works or operates
It's a disease which affects the function of the nervous system.
Studies suggest that regular intake of the vitamin significantly improves brain
function.
function noun RESULT
4. a function of sth FORMAL
something which results from something else, or which is as it is because of
something else
His success is a function of his having worked so hard.
The low temperatures here are a function of the terrain as much as of the
climate.
function noun VALUE
5. [ C ] SPECIALIZED (in mathematics) a value which depends on and varies with
another value
x is a function of y.
function verb [ I ]
to work or operate
You'll soon learn how the office functions.
The television was functioning normally until yesterday.
I'm so tired today, I can barely function.
function as sth/sb phrasal verb
to perform the purpose of a particular thing or the duties of a particular person
We have a spare bedroom which also functions as a study.
functional adjective USEFUL
1. designed to be practical and useful rather than attractive
functional clothing
functional adjective WORKING NORMALLY
2. (of a machine, system, etc.) working in the usual way
Is the central heating functional yet?
3. performing a particular operation
a functional disorder (= when an organ does not work as it should)
ˌ functional ˈ food noun [ C ]
nutraceutical
ˌ functional il ˈ literate noun [ C ] MAINLY US SPECIALIZED
someone who is able to live and possibly work in society, but who cannot read
and write
functional illiteracy noun [ U ]
There's a high rate of functional illiteracy here.
functionalism noun [ U ]
the principle that the most important thing about an object such as a building is
its use rather than what it looks like
functionalist adjective
functionality noun [ C or U ]
any or all of the operations performed by a piece of equipment or a software
program
functionally adverb IN A PRACTICAL WAY
1. in a way that is practical and useful rather than attractive
The office is functionally designed.
functionally adverb WORK
2. in a way that works normally
functionary noun [ C ] FORMAL
a person who has official duties, especially in a government or political party
The visitors were met by a functionary who escorted them to the director's office.
a government functionary
ˈ function ˌ key noun [ C ]
one of the keys at the top of the keyboard which make the computer perform
particular operations
See picture computer
ˈ function ˌ word noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
in grammar, a word such as a conjunction, preposition or pronoun that is used to
show the relationship between other words in a sentence or phrase
fund noun
1. [ C ] a sum of money saved, collected or provided for a particular purpose
a pension/trust fund
The hospital has set up a special fund to buy new equipment.
Contributions are being sought for the disaster fund.
2. funds
money needed or available to spend on something
Following the repairs to the roof, church funds are now seriously depleted.
The President has agreed to allocate further funds to develop the new submarine.
INFORMAL I'd love to come on holiday with you, but I'm a bit short of/low on
funds (= I have little money) at the moment.
3. a fund of sth
a lot of something
She has a fund of knowledge on the subject.
fund verb [ T ]
to provide the money to pay for an event, activity or organization
The company has agreed to fund my trip to Australia.
The new college is being privately funded (= money for it is not being provided
from taxes) .
fundamental adjective
forming the base, from which everything else develops; more important than
anything else
We need to make fundamental changes to the way in which we treat our
environment.
It's one of the fundamental differences between men and women.
The school is based on the fundamental principle that each child should develop
its full potential.
Diversity is of fundamental importance to all ecosystems and all economies.
Some understanding of grammar is fundamental to learning a language.
fundamentalism noun [ U ]
the belief in old and traditional forms of religion, or the belief that what is written
in a holy book, such as the Christian Bible, is completely true
Recent years have witnessed a growth in religious fundamentalism.
fundamentalist noun [ C ]
fundamentalist adjective
fundamentally adverb
in a basic and important way
Our new managing director has reorganized the company a bit, but nothing has
fundamentally changed/altered (= its basic character has not changed) .
I still believe that people are fundamentally good.
I disagree fundamentally with what you're saying.
fundamentals plural noun
the main or most important rules or parts
It's important for children to be taught the fundamentals of science.
funding noun [ U ]
money given by a government or organization for an event or activity
Ian is trying to get funding for his research.
They received state funding for the project.
fundraiser noun [ C ]
a person or event involved in collecting money for a particular purpose, especially
a charity
fundraising , fund-raising noun [ U ]
when you collect or produce money for a particular purpose, especially for a
charity
The summer fête will be the school's main fundraising event this year.
fundraise verb [ I ]
funeral noun [ C ]
a (usually religious) ceremony for burying or burning the body of a dead person
The funeral will be held next Friday.
Over 300 mourners attended the funeral.
a funeral procession
That's/it's your funeral! INFORMAL
something that you say which means that if someone suffers bad results from
their actions, it will be their fault
ˈ funeral di ˌ rector noun [ C ]
a person whose job it is to arrange for the bodies of dead people to be buried or
burned
ˈ funeral ˌ home noun [ C ]
US FOR funeral parlour
ˈ funeral ˌ parlour UK , US funeral parlor noun [ C ]
a place where the bodies of dead people are prepared to be buried or burned
funereal adjective FORMAL
suitable for a funeral
funereal music
dressed in funereal black
funereally adverb FORMAL
funfair noun [ C ] UK ( US amusement park )
a place of outside entertainment where there are machines for riding on and
games that can be played for prizes
ˈ fun ˌ fur noun [ C or U ]
artificial fur that is used in clothing, often brightly coloured in a way that is
obviously not natural
fungal adjective
caused by a fungus
a fungal infection
fungicide , noun [ C or U ]
a chemical substance used to kill fungus or prevent it from growing
fungoid adjective SPECIALIZED
like a fungus
fungus noun [ C or U ]
any of various types of organism which get their food from decaying material or
other living things
Mushrooms and mould are funguses.
Fungus can be poisonous.
ˈ fun ˌ house noun [ C ] US
a building at a fair containing frightening or humorous objects and devices
funicular (railway) noun [ C ]
a special type of railway which travels up and down steep slopes, with the
carriages being pulled by a strong metal rope
funk noun [ U ]
a style of music, usually for dancing to, with a strong rhythm based on jazz and a
tune that repeats itself
James Brown is the master of funk.
be in a funk US INFORMAL
to be very unhappy and without hope
He's been in a real funk since she left him.
funky adjective MUSIC
1. describes a style of music, usually for dancing to, with a strong rhythm based
on jazz and a tune that repeats itself
Have you heard their new record? It's really funky.
funky adjective FASHIONABLE
2. SLANG fashionable in an unusual and noticeable way
She has some really funky clothes.
short funky haircuts
funnel noun [ C ] TUBE
funnel
1. an object which has a wide round opening at the top, sloping sides, and a
narrow tube at the bottom, used for pouring liquids or powders into containers with
narrow necks
When you've ground the coffee, use a funnel to pour it into the jar.
funnel noun [ C ] ON A SHIP/TRAIN
2. ( US ALSO smokestack ) a vertical metal pipe on the top of a ship or steam train
through which smoke comes out
See picture ships and boats 1
funnel verb
1. [ I or T usually + adverb or preposition ] to put something, or to travel,
through a funnel or something that acts like a funnel
The wind funnels down these narrow streets.
The children funnelled along the corridor into the school hall.
If you funnel the oil into the engine, you're less likely to spill it.
2. [ T usually + adverb or preposition ] to send something directly and
intentionally
No one knows who has been funnelling weapons to the terrorists.
funnel-web noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
a large poisonous spider found in eastern Australia which makes a web (= sticky
net) with a funnel-shaped entrance
funnily adverb
strangely
If I'm talking a bit funnily it's because I've just had an injection in my mouth.
funnily enough
strangely, in a way that is surprising
Funnily enough, I was just thinking about you when you called.
funny adjective HUMOROUS
1. humorous; causing laughter
Do you know any funny jokes?
I've never found Charlie Chaplin very funny.
It's a really funny film.
It's not funny - don't laugh!
Breaking your leg isn't funny (= is serious) , I can assure you.
No matter how disastrous the situation there always seems to be a funny side to
it .
Don't you try to be funny with me (= Be serious and show respect) , young man!
funny adjective STRANGE
2. strange, surprising, unexpected or difficult to explain or understand
The washing machine is making a funny noise again.
He's got some funny ideas about how to bring up children.
That's funny - I'm sure I left my keys here.
A funny thing happened to me on the way to the crematorium.
Do you think this jacket looks a bit funny with these trousers?
It 's funny how Alec always disappears whenever there's work to be done.
She's a funny girl (= she is strange and difficult to understand) .
UK INFORMAL The television's gone funny (= isn't working correctly) .
funny adjective DISHONEST
3. INFORMAL dishonest; involving cheating
I think there's something funny going on next door.
funny adjective UNFRIENDLY
4. [ after verb ] UK INFORMAL unfriendly or seeming to be offended
I'm not being funny or anything but I think I'd rather go on my own.
She sounded a bit funny with me on the phone last night and I wondered if I'd
offended her.
funny adjective ILL
5. [ after verb ] INFORMAL slightly ill
I don't know if it was something I ate but I'm feeling a bit funny.
funny adjective CRAZY
6. UK INFORMAL slightly crazy
All the stress made him go a bit funny.
funny ha-ha or funny peculiar? UK
used when someone has described a person as 'funny' and you want to know
whether they mean 'humorous', ('ha-ha'), or 'strange' ('peculiar')
"She's a very funny woman." "Funny ha-ha or funny peculiar?"
It's a funny old world. UK SAYING
said when someone has told you something that is strange or surprising
funny noun
the funnies
MAINLY US the series of drawings in a newspaper that tell a humorous story
See also comic strip
ˈ funny ˌ bone noun [ C ] INFORMAL
the outer part of the elbow (= the middle part of the arm where it bends) which
hurts a lot if it is knocked
ˈ funny ˌ business noun [ U ]
dishonest actions or behaviour intended to trick someone
If you try any funny business you'll be sorry.
the ˈ funny ˌ farm noun [ S ] UK INFORMAL
sometimes used in a humorous or offensive way to refer to a hospital for mentally
ill people
If things get much worse, I'll soon be carted off to the funny farm.
ˈ fun ˌ run noun [ C ]
an event in which people run a certain distance for pleasure, usually to make
money for charity
fur noun HAIR
1. [ C or U ] the thick hair that covers the bodies of some animals, or the hair-
covered skin(s) of animals, removed from their bodies
She stroked the rabbit's soft fur.
"Is that real fur on your collar?" "Certainly not - I only wear fake fur."
a fur coat
Native Americans traded furs with early European settlers.
fur noun GREY SUBSTANCE
2. [ U ] a hard pale grey substance which can form on the inside of water pipes,
kettles etc.
fur noun TONGUE
3. [ U ] a greyish covering on the tongue, caused by illness or by smoking
cigarettes
the fur flies
If the fur flies, people have a bad argument
The fur was really flying during that meeting.
make the fur fly ( ALSO set the fur flying )
to cause a bad argument
He set the fur flying by demanding to see proof.
fur verb [ I ]
1. If water pipes, kettles , etc. fur, a hard grey substance forms on the inside
Over the years, the pipes in our house have slowly furred (up) .
2. ( ALSO fur up ) If someone's arteries (= tubes that carry blood from your heart)
fur, or something furs them, they become slightly blocked
Eating too much fat furs up your arteries which slows down the flow of blood.
furious adjective ANGRY
1. extremely angry
I was late and he was furious with me.
He's furious about/at the way he's been treated.
We had a furious row last night.
furious adjective STRONG
2. using a lot of effort or strength
There is a furious struggle going on between the two presidential candidates.
He set off running at a furious pace.
furiousness noun [ U ]
See also fury .
furiously adverb ANGRY WAY
1. in a very angry way
"Get out of here!" she shouted furiously.
furiously adverb WITH STRENGTH
2. with as much effort or strength as possible
I was pedalling furiously to try to keep up with the other children.
furl verb [ T ]
to fold and roll something such as a flag, sail or umbrella into a tight tube shape
furlong noun [ C ]
a unit of length equal to 201 metres or 1/8 mile, used especially in horse racing
a five-furlong race
furlough noun [ C ] US
a period of time that a worker or a soldier is allowed to be absent, especially to
return temporarily to their own town or country
furlough verb [ T ] US
to allow or force someone to be absent temporarily from work
After safety concerns, the company furloughed all 4000 of it's employees.
furnace noun [ C ]
1. a container which is heated to a very high temperature, so that substances that
are put inside it, such as metal, will melt or burn
People who work with furnaces in a steel factory need to wear protective clothing.
This room's like a furnace (= is very hot) !
2. US a piece of equipment for heating a building
It's cold in here - should I turn on the furnace?
furnish verb [ T ]
to provide with furniture; to put furniture in
They've furnished the room very simply.
furnish sb with sth phrasal verb FORMAL
to provide someone with something
Furnished with a compass and sandwiches, they set off for a day's hiking.
furnished adjective
containing furniture or furniture of a particular type
She's looking for a furnished flat/apartment .
Their house is expensively furnished.
furnishings plural noun
the furniture, curtains and other decorations in a room or building
Bathroom furnishings are in the basement of the store, Sir.
furniture noun [ U ]
things such as chairs, tables, beds, cupboards, etc. which are put into a house or
other building to make it suitable and comfortable for living or working in
They have a lot of antique furniture.
The only piece/item of furniture he has in his bedroom is a bed.
We've just bought some new garden furniture (= tables, chairs, etc. for use in the
garden) .
furore UK , US furor noun [ S ]
a sudden excited or angry reaction to something by a lot of people
The government's decision to raise taxes has caused a great furore.
the furore over his latest film
furphy noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN SLANG
a rumour (= unofficial interesting story or piece of news that might be true or
invented)
furred adjective
1. describes a tongue which is covered in a substance because of illness, smoking,
etc
He had the furred tongue of a sick man.
2. describes arteries (= tubes which carry blood from your heart) which are
slightly blocked
furred arteries from eating too many fatty foods
furrier noun [ C ]
a person who makes or sells clothes made from fur
furrow noun [ C ]
a long line or hollow which is formed or cut into the surface of something
A deep furrow has formed in the rock, where water has run over it for centuries.
Years of anxiety have lined her brow with deep furrows.
furrow verb [ T ]
to form or cut a long line or hollow in the surface of something
The wheels of the heavy tractor furrowed the soft ground.
The pain of the headache made him furrow his brow (= make lines in the skin
above his eyes) .
furrowed adjective
a furrowed brow
a forehead (= part of the face above the eyes) that has lines in the skin, usually
caused by worry
furry adjective
1. covered with fur
small furry animals
2. describes things that are made from a soft material that looks like fur
furry slippers
Rosie has a massive collection of furry toys.
further adverb
1. COMPARATIVE OF far (DISTANCE) ; to a greater distance or degree; at a more
advanced level
I'm afraid I never got further than the first five pages of 'Ulysses'.
We discussed the problem but we didn't get much further in actually solving it.
The whole matter is further complicated by the fact that Amanda and Jo refuse to
speak to each other.
Every day she sinks further and further into depression.
2. go further/take sth further
If you go or take something further, you take it to a more advanced stage
Before we go any further with the project I think we should check that there's
enough money to fund it.
If you wish to take the matter further, you can file charges against him.
Nothing could have been further from my mind/thoughts.
used to say that you certainly did not intend something
I certainly wasn't trying to get money off him - nothing could have been further
from my mind!
further adjective
at a greater distance
It was much further to the town centre than I remembered.
Fourteen miles is further than you'd think once you start to run it.
Is that her at the further (= other) end of the room?
further adjective , adverb
1. more or extra
Have you anything further to add?
If you have any further problems do let me know.
It cost me £50 a day and a further £60 for insurance.
This shop will be closed until further notice.
We need to talk further about this.
2. further to
MAINLY UK FORMAL used in business letters to state the subject that you are
referring to or which conversation or letter you are answering
Further to your letter of March 11th, I should like to inform you of a number of
recent developments regarding the Saffron Hill site.
further verb [ T ]
to develop or make progres in something
He has probably done more to further the cause of interracial harmony than any
other person.
Additional training is probably the best way to further your career these days.
furtherance noun [ U ] FORMAL
The charter states that the press shall be devoted to printing and publishing in
the furtherance and dissemination of knowledge.
ˌ further edu ˈ cation noun [ U ] FORMAL AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH AND UK ( US adult
education )
education below the level of a university degree for people who are older than
school age
She teaches at a college of further education.
furthermore , adverb FORMAL
in addition; more importantly
I suggest we use Barkers as our main suppliers - they're good and furthermore
they're cheap.
furthermost adjective FORMAL
The furthermost place or places are those at the greatest distance away
the furthermost ports of northern Europe
furthest adverb
SUPERLATIVE OF far (DISTANCE)
That's the furthest I can see without glasses.
I wanted to be an actress but the furthest I ever got was selling ice-creams in a
theatre.
furthest adjective
The novel explores the furthest extremes of human experience.
furthest adverb
SUPERLATIVE OF far (DISTANCE)
That's the furthest I can see without glasses.
I wanted to be an actress but the furthest I ever got was selling ice-creams in a
theatre.
furthest adjective
The novel explores the furthest extremes of human experience.
furtive adjective
(of people) behaving secretly and often dishonestly, or (of actions) done secretly
and often dishonestly
I saw him cast a furtive glance at the woman at the table to his right.
He made one or two furtive phone calls.
There was something furtive about his behaviour and I immediately felt
suspicious.
furtively adverb
As she turned away I saw him sniff furtively under his arm.
furtiveness noun [ U ]
fury noun [ S or U ]
extreme anger
He could hardly contain his fury.
She flew into a fury at the suggestion.
like fury OLD-FASHIONED
with great energy and determination
I've been working like fury these past few days to catch up.
fuse noun [ C ] SAFETY PART
1. a small safety part in an electrical device or piece of machinery which causes it
to stop working if the electric current is too high, and so prevents fires or other dangers
My hairdrier's stopped working - I think the fuse has blown/ UK ALSO gone (=
broken) .
Have you tried changing the fuse?
fuse noun [ C ] DEVICE ON EXPLOSIVE
2. a string or piece of paper connected to a firework or other explosive product by
which it is lit, or a device inside a bomb which causes it to explode after a fixed length
of time or when it hits or is near something
He lit the fuse and ran.
have a short fuse
to get angry very easily
fuse verb [ I or T ] JOIN
1. to join or become combined
Genes determine how we develop from the moment the sperm fuses with the egg.
The bones of the skull are not properly fused at birth.
In Istanbul, East and West fuse together in a way that is fascinating to observe.
fuse verb [ I or T ] MELT
2. to (cause to) melt (together) especially at a high temperature
The heat of the fire fused many of the machine's parts together.
fuse verb [ I or T ] STOP WORKING
3. UK When an electrical device or piece of machinery fuses, or when someone or
something fuses it, it stops working because the electric current is too high
Either my headlights have fused or the bulbs have gone.
The kids were messing around with the switches and they fused the lights.
ˈ fuse ˌ box noun [ C ]
a container holding several fuses, such as all the fuses for the electrical system of
a single house
ˈ fuse ˌ box noun [ C ]
a container holding several fuses, such as all the fuses for the electrical system of
a single house
fused adjective
describes an electrical device or a piece of machinery that has a fuse in it
fuselage noun [ C ]
the main body of an aircraft
A close inspection revealed minute cracks in the aircraft's fuselage and wings.
fusilier noun [ C ] UK
a low-ranked British soldier who is in the infantry
fusillade noun [ C ]
a large number of bullets fired at the same time or one after another very quickly
a fusillade of automatic fire
FORMAL FIGURATIVE A fusillade (= sudden large amount) of questions greeted the
president at this afternoon's press conference.
fusion noun [ U ]
when two or more things join or are combined
nuclear fusion
Their music is described as 'an explosive fusion of Latin American and modern
jazz rhythms'.
fuss noun TOO MUCH OF A FEELING
1. [ S or U ] a show of anger, worry, lack of satisfaction or excitement, usually
one which is greater than the situation deserves
She made such a fuss when Richard spilt a drop of wine on her blouse!
It's all a fuss about nothing .
I don't see what the fuss is about - he seems like a fairly ordinary looking guy
to me.
We tried to arrange a ceremony with as little fuss as possible.
2. make a fuss of/over sb
to give someone a lot of attention and treat them well
She doesn't see her grandchildren very often so she makes a real fuss of them
when she does.
fuss noun ATTENTION
3. [ U ] attention given to small matters which are not important
The article was entitled 'Making up with the minimum of fuss: a five-minute
beauty routine that every busy woman should know'.
fuss verb GIVE ATTENTION TO
1. [ I ] to give too much attention to small matters which are not important,
usually in a way which shows that you are worried and not relaxed
Please, stop fussing - the food's cooking and there's nothing more to do until the
guests arrive.
It irritates me the way she's always fussing with her hair!
fuss verb MAKE NERVOUS/ANGRY
2. [ T ] US to make someone nervous and angry by trying to get their attention
when they are very busy
Don't fuss me, honey, I've got a whole pile of work to do.
fuss over sb/sth phrasal verb
to give someone or something too much attention because you want to show that
you like them
She's always fussing over that son of hers as if he were a little boy.
fusspot noun [ C ] ( US ALSO fussbudget ) INFORMAL
a person who is often not satisfied and complains about things that are not
important
"I can't eat this meat - it's too tough." "You old fusspot - give it here and I'll eat
it!"
fusspot noun [ C ] ( US ALSO fussbudget ) INFORMAL
a person who is often not satisfied and complains about things that are not
important
"I can't eat this meat - it's too tough." "You old fusspot - give it here and I'll eat
it!"
fussy adjective DISAPPROVING NOT EASILY SATISFIED
1. not easily satisfied; having very high standards or very fixed standards about
particular things
All my children were fussy eaters.
He's so fussy about the house - everything has to be absolutely perfect.
"I haven't met a man I've fancied for ages!" "You're too fussy - that's your
problem!"
fussy adjective DISAPPROVING DECORATED TOO MUCH
2. having too much decoration and too many small details, in a way that is not
stylish
They've got those curtains that tie up with big bows - they're a bit fussy for my
taste.
fussily adverb
fussily decorated
fussiness noun [ U ]
I'm not fussy/fussed UK INFORMAL
something that you say when you would be satisfied with either choice that is
offered you
"Red wine or white?" "I'm not fussy - either would be lovely."
fustian noun [ U ]
a thick rough cotton cloth that lasts for a long time
fustian adjective
fusty adjective DISAPPROVING SMELL
1. not fresh and smelling unpleasant especially because of being left slightly wet
This room smells a bit fusty - I think I'll just open a window.
fusty adjective DISAPPROVING OLD-FASHIONED
2. old-fashioned in ideas and beliefs
Rupert's father belongs to some fusty old gentleman's club in London where they
don't allow women in.
futile adjective
(of actions) having no effect or achieving nothing; unsuccessful
Attempts to get supplies to the region are futile because troops will not allow the
aid convoy to enter the city.
It 's quite futile try ing to reason with him - he just won't listen.
All my attempts to cheer her up proved futile.
futility noun [ U ]
"What's his latest book about?" "Oh, the usual - the transience of love and the
futility of life."
futile adjective
(of actions) having no effect or achieving nothing; unsuccessful
Attempts to get supplies to the region are futile because troops will not allow the
aid convoy to enter the city.
It 's quite futile try ing to reason with him - he just won't listen.
All my attempts to cheer her up proved futile.
futility noun [ U ]
"What's his latest book about?" "Oh, the usual - the transience of love and the
futility of life."
futon noun [ C ]
futon
a mattress which is used on the floor or on a wooden frame
future noun TIME TO COME
1. the future
a. a period of time that is to come
Sometimes I worry about the future.
I wonder what the future holds for (= what will happen to) you and me.
I'm sure at some point in the future I'll want a baby.
We need to plan for the future.
Do you plan to leave London in the distant future or the near future?
I can see those two getting married in the not too distant future (= quite soon) .
b. in grammar, the form of a verb which you use when talking about something
that will happen or exist
In the sentence 'Who will look after the dog?' the verb phrase 'will look' is in the
future.
2. [ C ] what will happen to someone or something in the time that is to come
Torn apart by war, its economy virtually destroyed, this country now faces a very
uncertain future.
She's a very talented young singer, Mike, and I personally think she's got a great
future ahead of her!
The future isn't looking too rosy for these companies.
3. [ S or U ] the chance of continuing success or existence for something
With falling audiences, the future of this theatre is in doubt.
4. in future MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY in the future )
used at the beginning or end of a sentence in which there is a decision about a
plan of action or a warning
Could you be more careful in future?
In future I won't bother asking him out anywhere if he's just going to complain
that he's bored!
In future I'm going to check every single piece of work that you do!
future noun MONEY
5. futures
agreements for the buying and selling of goods, in which the price is agreed
before a particular future time at which the goods will be provided
the futures market
She works in futures.
future adjective [ before noun ]
1. happening or existing in the future
Of course we'll keep you up to date with any future developments.
There's an old superstition that young girls going to bed on this night dream of
their future husbands.
2. In grammar, the future form of a verb is used when talking about something
that will happen or exist
How do you say that in the future tense ?
3. for future reference
used when you tell someone something so that it will be known about and can be
used in the future
For future reference, could you use the headed paper for any correspondence that
leaves this office?
the ˌ future ˈ perfect noun [ S ]
the tense which is used to show that an action will have been performed by a
particular time. In English it is formed by 'will have' or 'shall have' and a past participle
In the sentence 'By that time I will have finished' the verb phrase 'will have
finished' is in the future perfect.
the ˌ future ˈ perfect noun [ S ]
the tense which is used to show that an action will have been performed by a
particular time. In English it is formed by 'will have' or 'shall have' and a past participle
In the sentence 'By that time I will have finished' the verb phrase 'will have
finished' is in the future perfect.
future-proof verb [ T ]
to design software, a computer, etc. so that it can still be used in the future, even
when technology changes
Here are some tips for future-proofing your computer network.
future-proof adjective
Future-proof software, computer equipment, etc. is designed so that it can still be
used even when technology changes
Is it possible to build a future-proof PC?
futurism noun [ U ]
a new way of thinking in the arts that started in the 1920s and 1930s which
attempted to express through a range of art forms the characteristics and images of the
modern age, such as machines, speed, movement and power
futurist adjective , noun [ C ]
a futurist painter
futuristic adjective
strange and very modern, or intended or seeming to come from some imagined
time in the future
At the unspoiled North Bay, three white pyramids rise like futuristic sails from the
sea.
Her latest novel is a futuristic thriller, set some time in the late twenty-first
century.
fuzz noun [ U ] HAIR
1. INFORMAL a covering of short thin soft hairs, or a mass of tightly curled and often
untidy hair
He's got that bit of adolescent fuzz on his upper lip.
I must buy a razor today and get rid of the fuzz on my legs!
fuzz noun [ U ] POLICE
2. UK AND US OLD-FASHIONED SLANG AND INFORMAL AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH the police
Watch out! It's the fuzz.
fuzzy adjective NOT CLEAR
1. (of an image) having shapes that do not have clear edges, or (of a sound,
especially from a television, radio, etc.) not clear, usually because of other unwanted
noises making it difficult to hear
Is the picture always fuzzy on your TV?
You can pick up a lot of stations on the car radio but the sound is usually a bit
fuzzy.
2. INFORMAL not clear
The basic facts of the story are starting to emerge though the details are still
fuzzy.
My head's a bit fuzzy (= I cannot think clearly) this morning after all that wine
last night.
fuzzy adjective HAIR/FUR
3. INFORMAL (of hair) in an untidy mass of tight curls
Oh no, it's raining - my hair will go all fuzzy.
4. INFORMAL describes a surface that feels like short fur
the fuzzy skin of a peach
fuzzily adverb
fuzziness noun [ U ]
FWIW , fwiw
INTERNET ABBREVIATION FOR for what it's worth: used when you are giving someone
information and you do not know if it is useful or not
the f-word /ðiˈ efˌ wɜː d/ /-ˌ wɝː d/ noun [ S ]
POLITE WORD FOR fuck
Entertainment Research reports that there are 245 mentions of the f-word in this
movie.
FYA , fya
INTERNET ABBREVIATION FOR for your amusement: used when you send someone a
joke by email
FYI , fyi
INTERNET ABBREVIATION FOR for your information: used when you send someone an
announcement or tell them something that you think they should know

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e-zine noun [ C ]

a zine (= small magazine) that is available on the Internet

face-saving adjective [ before noun ]

factorize , UK USUALLY factorise verb [ T ] ( ALSO factor ) SPECIALIZED

faggot noun HOMOSEXUAL

faint-hearted adjective [ before noun ]

fairy-tale , fairytale adjective [ before noun ] APPROVING

faith-based adjective MAINLY US

faithfully adverb LOYALLY

1. in a loyal way or a way that can be trusted

faithfully adverb LOYALLY

ˌ falling ˈ star noun [ C ]

ˌ false im ˈ prisonment noun [ C usually singular ] LEGAL

ˌ family ˈ planning noun [ U ]

the ˌ Far ˈ East noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]

fat adjective BIG

fathomless adjective LITERARY DEEP

fathomless adjective LITERARY DEEP

faultless adjective APPROVING

fearful adjective FRIGHTENED

feed verb GIVE FOOD

feeler noun [ C usually plural ]

felicitations plural noun OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS

fella noun [ C ] NOT STANDARD

fellowship noun GROUP

Femidom noun [ C ] UK TRADEMARK

femur noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

fetlock noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

fibber noun [ C ] INFORMAL

fibrin noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED

fifties plural noun

filbert noun [ C ] MAINLY US

ˈ filing ˌ cabinet noun [ C ] UK ( US file cabinet )

fine-tooth comb noun

finite adjective LIMITED

flat adjective LEVEL

flatly adverb WITHOUT EMOTION

1. in a way that shows no emotion or interest

flexible adjective CHANGEABLE

flier noun [ C ] INFORMATION

flouncy adjective ( ALSO flounced )

flowchart noun [ C ] ( ALSO flow diagram )

fluorocarbon noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED

focus noun [ C ] CENTRE

fog noun WEATHER

footing noun [ S ] FEET

1. when you are standing firmly on a slope or other dangerous surface

footing noun [ S ] FEET

forbearing adjective FORMAL

the forefront noun [ S ]

the most noticeable or important position

foreknowledge noun [ U ] FORMAL

forever , UK ALSO for ever adverb

forge verb COPY

fossilized , UK USUALLY fossilised adjective

fragmentary adjective FORMAL

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