churrascon/ chUSrBTskP /Spbeef broiled on a spit over an openfire or grilled under an oven flame.At the barbecue the whole familyfeasted on the churrasco that Dadcooked.

chutneyn/ SchEtnG /Prakrit > Hindia condiment that has theconsistency of jam and is made ofacid fruits with added raisins, dates,and onions and seasoned to tastewith spices and vinegar.Spicy or sweet chutney issometimes eaten with Indian mealscontaining curry.

chymousadj/ SkImEs /Gk + Ecfof or relating to the semifluid massof partly digested food resultingfrom the action of gastric juice.One of the coroners less pleasanttasks is testing chymous material.

cicadan/ sDSkCdE /Lany insect of the familyCicadidaecalled also locust.The male cicada produces sound byvibrating miniature drumheadson the lower surface of itsabdomen.

ciceronen/ TsisESrPnG /L > Itone who acts as a guide to or showsthe sights to.At the end of the tour, Mariapraised her cicerone as being veryknowledgeable and articulate.

Ciceronianadj/ TsisESrPnGEn /L nameresembling the Roman oratorCicero in oratorical or literaryqualities.Beulahs Ciceronian bombastabout Destiny and Youth impressedthe audience.

ciguateran/ TsGgwESterE /Taino > Sppoisoning caused by eating fish ormollusks with flesh toxic to man.Although she contracted ciquaterain June, Constance could not returnto work until November.

cilantron/ sDSlantrP /L > Spleaves of coriander used as aflavoring or garnish.In Janets opinion, the best part ofthe fresh salsa was the choppedcilantro.

cincturev/ SsiN(k)chE(r) /Lgirdle with or as if with a belt orband.For the Halloween party, Evelinachose to cincture her gypsycostume with a spangled belt.

cinematographern/ TsinEmEStBgrEfE(r) /Gka motion-picture camera operator.Darina won the award foroutstanding cinematographer atlast years Montreal Film Festival.

cinnabarn/ SsinETbBr /Gk > L&Fartificial red mercuric sulfide usedprincipally as a pigment.The orange color of rubber gasketsis often created by the addition ofcinnabar.

cinnamonn/ SsinEmEn /? > Gk > L > F > Ea culinary spice prepared from thebark of certain tropical trees.Akbar likes cinnamon in his hotchocolate.

cioppinon/ chESpGTnP /Ita dish of fish and shellfish cookedin tomato sauce and usuallyseasoned with wine, spices, andherbs.After an afternoon at the beach,Beverly stopped at a localrestaurant for cioppino and coffee.

circinateadj/ SsErsFnTCt /Lrounded in outline : characterizedby or having the form of a flat coilof which the apex is the center.The retracted tongue of a butterflyforms a circinate coil.

circuitn/ SsErkDt /L > Fthe complete path of an electriccurrent.The average electrical housecircuit carries about 30 amperes.

circuitousadj/ TsErSkyVEZEs /Lbeing a circular or winding course :indirect, roundabout.As we drove through themountains, the road took anincreasingly circuitous route

circumambulatev/ TsErkEmSambyETlCt /Lwander about at leisure withoutdefinite purpose or as a result ofindirection.Her first day in London, Conniedecided to circumambulate insteadof taking a guided tour.

circumlocutionn/ TsErkEmlPSkyVshEn /Lthe use of an unnecessarily largenumber of words to express anidea.The attorneys circumlocutioncaused one of the jurors to doze off.

circumstantialadj/ TsErkEmzStanchEl /L + Ecfbelonging to, consisting of,influenced by, or dependent onconditions, facts, or eventsaccompanying others.The report contains strongcircumstantial evidence ofwrongdoing by the governor.

cirrhosisn/ sDSrPsDs /Gk + Lcf[has homonym and near homonym:sorosis and xerosis] a chronicprogressive disease of the liver.The damage caused by cirrhosis isirreversible.

cislunaradj/ sisSlVnE(r) /L + Lof or relating to the space betweenEarth and the Moon or the Moonsorbit.The space enthusiast talked oftenabout the practicalities of settingup a colony in the cislunar region.

cisternn/ SsistE(r)n /L > F > E[has homonym: sistern] anartificial reservoir or tank forholding or storing water or otherliquids.Three weeks into the drought, thefarms cistern ran dry.

citadeln/ SsiZEdFl /L > It > Fa fortress that commands a cityboth for control and defense;broadly : a strong fortress.The citadel had three separatewalls around it so that defenderscould retreat again and again to aposition of safety.

citronellan/ TsitrESnelE /F > La yellowish essential oil withlemonlike odor obtained fromeither of two grasses and usedespecially as an insect repellent.Candles containing citronella werekept burning on the picnic table.

civitasn/ SkGwGTtBs /La body of people constituting apolitically organized community.The concept of civitas remainsstrong in many small towns.

clandestineadj/ klanSdestDn /Lmarked by, held in, or conductedwith secrecy and concealment.Mike and Sally made clandestinepreparations for their mom'ssurprise birthday party.

claquen/ Sklak /F[has homonym: clack] an opera hatwith a collapsible crown.As the gentleman entered the operahouse, he doffed and flattened hisclaque.

claustrophobian/ TklOstrESfPbGE /Gk + Gkabnormal dread of being in closedor narrow spaces.Hermans claustrophobia keepshim from flying on crowdedairplanes.

claviclen/ SklavDkEl /La bone in man situated just abovethe first rib on either side of theneck and having the form of anarrow elongated S.Garth wore shoulder pads tofootball practice to protect hisclavicle.

clavigern/ SklavDjE(r) /Lone that keeps the key or keys :custodian, warden.Because she had forgotten her key,Marsha needed to locate theclaviger, Mr. Carl, to open herclassroom door.

clematisn/ SklemEZDs /Gka plant of a genus of opposite-leaved slightly woody vines orerect herbs having elongateplumose styles.The clematis is cultivated in NorthAmerica for its attractive flowers.

clemencyn/ SklemEnsG /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.]tendency to be mild andcompassionate.Emma supposed she must say morebefore she would be entitled to Mr.Knightleys clemency.

clepsydran/ SklepsEdrE /Gk > Lan instrument designed to measuretime by the flow of a quantity ofwater.For his science project Kerrydesigned and built a clepsydra.

clerisyn/ SklerEsG /L > Gthe well-educated or learned class :intelligentsia.Many believe that laws should bereadily understood by the generalpublic, not solely by an eliteclerisy.

clientelen/ TklIEnStel /L > Fa body of patrons or customers.Bill hopes to enlarge the clienteleof the shoe store.

cliniciann/ klDSnishEn /Gk > Fone who directs, is closely alliedwith, or works in or through aclinic or with clinical methods.At the hospital a clinician drew avial of Harrys blood to test fordiabetes.

clinquantadj/ SkliNkEnt /Fglittering especially with golddecoration : showily ornate.The theater lobby in its clinquantsplendor cast dazzling reflectionsfrom every gleaming surface.

cliquen/ Sklik /F[alternate pronunciation hashomonym: cleek] a narrowexclusive circle or group of people.Sofia didnt want to be part of thepopular clique because she thoughtthey were the most boring kids inschool.

clochen/ klPsh /L > F[alternate pronunciation hashomonym: closh] a womans smallhelmetlike hat usually with deeprounded crown and very narrowbrim.At the Thatchers weddingMargaret looked smashing in herwhite ostrich-feather cloche.

clodhoppern/ SklBdThBpE(r) /E + Ea large heavy shoe.The thump of Archies clodhopperhitting the floor announced that hewas going to bed.

clothev/ SklPL /Eput garments on.Elizabeth Cady Stanton stressedthat she did not propose petitioningthe legislature to clothe everywoman in male attire.

cloudyadj/ SklaUdG /Emade or consisting of fog, mist, orhaze.The mountain with its cloudy veilinspired Svens painting.

clusen/ SklVz /L > F[has homonym: clues] a narrowgorge cutting transversely throughan otherwise continuous ridge.Although Brian studied the trailmap carefully, he found no mentionof the cluse that barred his way.

cnemialadj/ SnGmGEl /Gk + Erelating to the shin or shinbone.Bud suffered a cnemial injury whilequarterbacking in the game lastnight.

coacervaten/ TkPESsErvDt /Lan aggregate of colloidal dropletsheld together by electrostaticattractive forces.The chemist referred to theaggregation of liquid particles inan emulsion as a coacervate.

coadjutorn/ TkPESjVZE(r) /L > F > Eone who works together withanother usually in a somewhatsubordinate position : assistant.Offended by being called alackey, Marcus prefers to becalled a coadjutor. coagulatev/ kPSagyETlCt /Lcurdle, clot.Hemophiliacs lack a proteinneeded to help blood coagulate.

coalescev/ TkPESles /Lunite by growth into one body.The nervous host hoped that thetight little groups of guests wouldcoalesce into a real party.

coalescencen/ TkPESlesFn(t)s /La growing together or union in onebody, form, or group.Rain is the result of the coalescenceof water droplets within a cloud.

coalitionn/ TkPESlishEn /L > F + Ecfthe temporary alliance of distinctparties, persons, or states to achievea common purpose.Representatives from a coalition oflabor unions met with themultinational corporationslawyers in an attempt to work out anew contract.

coarationn/ TkPESrCshEn /Lcooperative tilling of soil aspracticed by early villagecommunities.The villagers found that coarationwas the most efficient system forcultivating the land.

cochinealn/ SkBchETnGl /Sp > Fa red dyestuff consisting of thedried bodies of the cochineal insect.Before the introduction of syntheticdyes, cochineal was commonlyused in textile production.

cochleariformadj/ TkPklGSa(a)rDTfOrm /Gk > L + Ecfshaped like a spoon.Jacques theorized that thecochleariform bone was used inprehistoric times as a spoon.

cocoonn/ kESkVn /L > Prov > Fa silky or fibrous protectiveencasement created by a larvalinsect for shelter during the pupalstage.Ricky found the cocoon of a mothclinging to a branch of an oak tree.

codeinen/ SkP(T)dGn /Gk + Fa crystalline alkaloid usually madefrom morphine but feebler inaction.The patient was given codeine tokill the pain.

codiciln/ SkBdEsDl /L > Fa legal instrument madesubsequently to a will andmodifying it in some respects.Robert had his lawyer draw up acodicil to clarify a few ambiguitiesin his will.

coelostatn/ SsGlETstat /L > ISV + GK > ISVa device consisting of a flat mirrorthat is turned slowly by a motor toreflect the Sun continuously into afixed telescope.Professor Merkle plans to use acoelostat to photograph themovements of planetary bodies.

coevaladj/ kPSGvEl /L + Ecfof the same or equal age orantiquity.Nearly the same in mass andbrightness, the stars were thoughtto be coeval.

cogitatev/ SkBjETtCt /Lponder on or meditate upon.Greta liked to cogitate on the tricksshe could play on her big brother.

cognizantadj/ SkBgnEzEnt /L > F > Eaware : perceiving with a degree ofcontrolled thought or observation.Watching television commercialscan make viewers more cognizantof fads and fashions.

cognomenn/ kBgSnPmEn /Lones family name : surname.The cognomen Crane fit thephysical attributes of the tall, lank,long-armed, and shovel-footedIchabod, whose whole frame mostloosely hung together.

cognoscitiveadj/ kBgSnBsEZiv /L + Ecfhaving the power of knowing.Lillian explained to her friends thather cognoscitive ability was innate,something like a sixth sense.

coincidentaladj/ kPTinsDSdentFl /Lcharacterized by the concurrence ofevents between which there is nocausal connection.It was purely coincidental that theelectricity went off just as theguests began to arrive for thesurprise party.

cointisen/ kwanStGz /F > Ea scarf worn on a ladys headdressor as a token of favor on a knightshelmet.Sir Agravaine proudly displayedthe bright red cointise.

colicn/ SkBlik /Gk > L > F > Eacute abdominal pain in man oranimals.Last spring Sams horse had colic.

collabentadj/ kPSlCbEnt /Lsunken or falling in : collapsing inthe middle.Orville poked the collabent anthillwith a stick.

collaboratorn/ kESlabETrCZE(r) /L[has near homonym: collaborateur]one that works jointly with others.Sir William Gilbert was ArthurSullivans collaborator for manyoperettas.

collagen/ kESlBzh /Gk > LF + Fcfan artistic composition offragments of printed matter andother materials pasted on a picturesurface.Sabrina spent weeks finishing alarge collage of a Paris streetscene.

collatev/ kESlCt /Larrange or assemble (paper, sheets,or forms) according to an orderlysystem.Edith's favorite feature of the newcopier was its ability to collatedocuments.

collateraladj/ kESlaZErEl /L > F > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] placedor regarded as side by side :parallel, coordinate, orcorresponding in position, order,time, or significance.Mexicos Sierra Madre Orientaland Occidental mountain rangesare collateral.

collegen/ SkBlij /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] anorganized group of personsengaged in a common pursuit,having a common duty or role andsometimes a charter or specialrights and privileges.Pope John Paul II was 58 years oldwhen the College of Cardinalselected him to lead the RomanCatholic Church.

collieryn/ SkBlyErG /E[has near homonym: colory] a coalmine and the buildings connectedwith it.The colliery around which thevillage was built closed when itsreserves of coal were exhausted.

colloquyn/ SkBlEkwG /Lhigh-level serious discussion.Listeners in the gallery mustremain silent during thelegislators colloquy.

collusionn/ kESlVzhEn /Lsecret agreement : secretcooperation for a fraudulent ordeceitful purpose.For acting in collusion with anenemy agent, the nuclear scientistwas sentenced to 20 years inprison.

colognen/ kESlPn /G name > Fa perfumed liquid composed ofalcohol and certain aromatic oils.The taxi driver sprayed expensivecologne in his cab every evening.

colonelcyn/ SkErnFlsG /L > It > F + Ecfthe office, rank, or commission of acolonel.Nathan announced that he wasbeing considered for a colonelcy inthe infantry.

colophonn/ SkBlEfEn /Gkan identifying mark, emblem, ordevice used by a printer orpublisher sometimes on the titlepage, cover, shelfback, or jacket.The publisher decided on the figureof a Russian wolfhound as itscolophon.

coloraturan/ TkElErEStUrE /L > It[Note: Could be confused withcolorature.] the floridornamentation in vocal music (asruns, trills, arpeggios).Barry thinks that he would enjoyopera music more if it did notcontain so much coloratura.

colossaladj/ kESlBsEl /Gk > L > Fcharacterized by extremely greatbulk, extent, force, strength, power,or effect.The new stadium is a colossalbuilding seating about a hundredthousand people.

comediennen/ kETmGdGSen /Gk > F[Note: Could be confused withcomedian.] an actress who plays indramas of light and amusingcharacter and typically with ahappy ending.Lucille Ball was Americas favoritecomedienne during the 1950s.

cometn/ SkBmDt /Gka celestial body that consists of afuzzy head usually surrounding abright nucleus and that has an orbitvarying in eccentricity.The vaunted Kohoutek cometproved to be a greatdisappointment for stargazers.

commemoratev/ kESmemETrCt /Lcall to remembrance as by speech,writing, or ceremony.Every year on December seventh,ceremonies are held tocommemorate those who diedduring the attack on Pearl Harbor.

commendableadj/ kESmendEbEl /Lworthy of praise.Jim received several scholarshipsas a result of his commendableacademic performance.

commensurateadj/ kESmen(t)s(E)rDt /Lcorresponding in size, extent,amount, or degree : proportionate.The want ad stated that salarywould be commensurate withexperience.

commercialadj/ kESmErshEl /L > F + Ecffrom the point of view of profit :having profit as the primary aim.Leila was determined that herjewelry store would be acommercial success.

commercializev/ kESmErshETlIz /L > F + Ecffmake use of for profit-seekingpurposes.The Hopi denounced those whowould commercialize theirreligious dances and ceremonies.

comminationn/ TkBmESnCshEn /L[Note: Could be confused withcombination.] an instance or theaction of announcing, warning of,or threatening punishment orvengeance.The president ended his speechwith a severe commination againstthe rebels.

commiserationn/ kETmizESrCshEn /Lthe feeling or showing of sorrow orthe expression of condolence forthe wants or distresses of another.Aunt Betsy sighed and moralizedwith true and steadycommiseration.

commitmentn/ kESmitmEnt /Lthe consignment or sentencing toconfinement (as in a prison ormental hospital).Tonys sentence includedcommitment to the statepenitentiary for at least five years.

commodiousadj/ kESmPdGEs /L > F > E + Lcf + Ecflarge or roomy and convenient.Leo and his family rented a modestbut commodious villa in Spain.

commutev/ kESmyVt /Ltravel back and forth regularly orfrequently.For his work, Horst must commutedaily between Philadelphia andNew York.

comparativelyadv/ kEmSparEZivlG /Lnearly, approximately.Well, approximately yes, hereplied; that is, comparativelyno.

compelledv/ kEmSpeld /Lforced by physical necessity.Artie was compelled to hold hisbreath while swimming underwater.

compendiumn/ kEmSpendGEm /La work treating in brief form theimportant features of a whole fieldof knowledge or subject mattercategory.Eileen is writing a compendium ofinvestment information for smallcompany shareholders.

competencyn/ SkBmpEZEnsG /Lthe quality or state of beingfunctionally adequate.The prospective student questionedthe competency of the professor.

complementn/ SkBmplEmEnt /La finishing or consummating part,integral, or component.The earrings made the perfectcomplement to Anjalis ensemble.

comprehendv/ TkBmprDShend /L > Esee the nature, significance, ormeaning of.Although he had read every wordof Moby Dick, Stu failed tocomprehend it.

compunctionn/ kEmSpEN(k)shEn /Lnormal human regret, pity, oranxiety : remorse.The children showed nocompunction about having eatenthe entire cake before dinner.

comradelinessn/ SkBmTradlGnDs /L > Sp > F + Ecffa spirit of friendly familiarity andgoodwill.The comradeliness of her shipmatesput Mrs. Stein at ease.

concatenatev/ kBnSkaZETnCt /Llink together : unite in a series orchain.The professor told the class to writea program that would concatenatetwo or more files.

concentratev/ SkBn(t)sEnTtrCt /L + Ecfbring all ones powers, faculties, oractivities to bear : focus.Anthony couldnt concentrate onthe reading material because hewas sick.

concentricadj/ kEnSsentrik /Lhaving a common center (as circlesone within another).Shane stared at the concentriccircles of the dart board for so longthat he seemed to be hypnotized.

conceptn/ SkBnTsept /Lthought, idea, notion.Julies concept of an entertainingmovie was not the same as heryounger brothers.

concerton/ kEnScherZ(T)P /L > Ita virtuoso piece for solo instrumentor voice and orchestra that usuallyhas three contrasting movements.A violin concerto by Vivaldiconcluded the orchestras program.

concessionn/ kEnSseshEn /Lthe admitting of a point claimed inargument; especially : the voluntaryyielding of a disputable contention.Concession was out of the question,but it was time to appear to forgetthat they had ever quarreled.

conchn/ SkBNk /Gk > L[has homonym: conk] any ofvarious large spiral-shelled marinegastropod mollusks.Herbert recoiled when he sawconch on the menu of theCaribbean restaurant.

conchiformadj/ SkBNkETfOrm /Gk > L > ISVshell-shaped.Mom keeps her jewelry in aconchiform box.

conchiticadj/ kBNSkiZik /Gkcomposed of shells.The professor brought in a piece ofconchitic limestone so studentscould examine the mollusk shells init.

conciergen/ kPMSsyerzh /L > Fan attendant at the entrance of abuilding : doorkeeper.The concierge took note of themysterious mans comings andgoings at the hotel.

conciliatev/ kEnSsilGTCt /Lwin over from a state of hostility ordistrust : appease.The new king hoped to conciliatehis subjects by doing them all thegood in his power.

concinnityn/ kEnSsinEZG /Lharmony or fitness in theadaptation of parts to a whole or toeach other.After reading through the writersfirst draft, the editor praised thewriter for her consistency andconcinnity of style.

concoctv/ kEnSkBkt /Lput together : devise, fabricate.Mom overheard the boys concoct astory to explain the broken window.

concomitantadj/ kEnSkBmEZEnt /Loccurring along with or at the sametime as and with or without causalrelationship.Mr. Simmons noted that his sonspoor grades in algebra wereconcomitant with the start of thebasketball season.

concordatn/ kEnSkOrTdat /L > Fa compact between a nationalgovernment and a religious groupestablishing terms of agreementconcerning matters of mutualinterest.Bonaparte and Pope Pius VIIsigned a concordat that the state ofFrance should protect andacknowledge the Roman CatholicChurch.

concurrencen/ kEnSkErEn(t)s /L[has homonym: concurrents]agreement in opinion.Frank agreed to it, but with soquiet a Yes, as inclined Emmaalmost to doubt his realconcurrence.

concussionn/ kEnSkEshEn /La smart or hard knock, blow, orcollision; also : the shock of such ablow.When Amy slipped on the ice shenearly suffered a concussion.

condemnv/ kEnSdem /L[has near homonym: contemn]pronounce as ill-advised,reprehensible, wrong, or evil.Often custom justifies an actionthat years later it will condemn.

condescendedv/ TkBndDSsendDd /L > F > E + Ecfstooped or bent to action or speechless formal or dignified than iscustomary in ones social rank.The rajah condescended to seathimself on a rug under the tree.

condimentn/ SkBndEmEnt /L > F > Esomething usually pungent, acid,salty, or spicy added to or servedwith food to enhance its flavor or togive added flavor : seasoning.Mustard is the condiment usuallyserved on hot pastrami sandwiches.

condorn/ SkBnTdO(E)r /Quechua > Spa very large American vulturehaving the head and neck bare andbeing one of the largest and mostpowerful of flying birds.Of all the birds of prey at the zoo,the Andean condor is Alisonsfavorite.

conduitn/ SkBn(T)dVDt /F > Ea natural or artificial channelthrough which water or other fluidpasses or is conveyed.Grandfather showed Logan theconduit that irrigated his largegarden.

confettin pl/ kEnSfeZG /L > Ittiny colored paper disks or paperstreamers so made as to scatterreadily when thrown.Ticker tape and confetti swirledlike snow over the crowded street.

confiscatev/ SkBnfDTskCt /Lseize by or as if by public authority.After a two-hour wait, the borderguard decided not to confiscateBrendas antique necklace.

conflagrationn/ TkBnflESgrCshEn /La large disastrous fire involvingnumerous buildings.Sixty fire trucks were called in tobattle the conflagration.

confluencen/ SkBnTflVEn(t)s /Lthe place of meeting of twostreams.Martina agreed to meet Lynn at theconfluence of Rogers Creek and theLittle Red River.

congan/ SkBNgE /African geog namea Cuban dance of African origininvolving three steps followed by akick and performed by a group insingle file.When he was a child, Jimmy lovedto dance the conga.

congenialadj/ kEnSjGnyEl /Lcharacterized by friendlysociability.Paul and Linda appreciated therestaurants congenial atmosphere.

conglobev/ kEnSglPb /Lform into a ball.Time-lapse photos showed howclouds conglobe.

conglomeraten/ kEnSglBm(E)rDt /La mixture gathered from varioussources : a composite mass.Father called his specialty Irishstew, but it was really more like aconglomerate of indeterminatesubstances.

coniferousadj/ kPSnif(E)rEs /(Gk + L) > L + Ecfbearing cones.A covering of coniferous treeskeeps some mountains green allwinter.

Connecticutadj/ kESneZDkDt /Mohican? > American geog nameof or from the state of Connecticut.Ichabod Crane is a famouscharacter of Connecticut lore.

conniveryn/ kESnIv(E)rG /L + Ecfthe practice of cooperating secretly,especially in a wrongful act.Allen suspects Brenda of conniveryin the mysterious sale of themansion.

connoisseurn/ TkBnESsU(E)r /L > Fone who is an expert in a subject;especially : one who understandsthe details, technique, or principlesof an art and is competent to act asa critical judge.The connoisseur who judged theculinary creations is a chef at afive-star restaurant.

connotev/ kESnPt /Larouse as an inseparably associatedidea or feeling : imply, suggest.Eli wonders if sending a dozenlong-stemmed roses to Gretchenmight connote what he findsdifficult to say.

connubialadj/ kESn(y)VbGEl /Lof or relating to marriage or themarriage state.Susan and Stuart spent theirhoneymoon in a state of connubialcontentment.

conquistadorn/ kOnSk(w)GstETdO(E)r /L > Spconqueror; specifically : any one ofthe leaders in the Spanish conquestof America, especially of Mexicoand Peru, in the 16th century.Mr. Sanchez found the helmet of aconquistador deep in the canyon.

consanguinityn/ TkBnsaNSgwinEZG /Lthe quality or state of being relatedby blood.Consanguinity has historicallybeen of great importance indetermining who sits on the variousthrones of Europe.

consciencen/ SkBnchEn(t)s /Lthe sense of right or wrong withinthe individual.In this country everyone has a rightto exercise individual conscienceand judgment on all matters ofpublic interest.

conscientiousadj/ TkBnchGSenchEs /Lgoverned by the dictates of thesense of right or wrong : honest,scrupulous.Janice was very conscientiousabout telling the truth.

consciousnessn/ SkBnchEsnEs /L + Ecfintuitively perceived knowledge ofsomething in ones inner self.With a sort of sneeringconsciousness, Tyler admitted thathe had nothing to say that would beentertaining to anyone.

consecratev/ SkBnsDTkrCt /Lmake or declare sacred or holy.The bishop will consecrate the newchapel next Sunday.

consensusn/ kEnSsen(t)sEs /Lcollective opinion : the judgmentarrived at by most of thoseconcerned.The Booster Clubs consensus wasthat popcorn would sell better thancotton candy.

consortiumn/ kEnSsOrsh(G)Em /L[has near homonym: consortion]an organization of persons having acommon interest.Several organizations joined theconsortium that fosters inclusion ofindividuals with disabilities in allaspects of society.

conspiracyn/ kEnzSpirEsG /Lan illegal, treasonable, ortreacherous plan to harm or destroyanother person, group, or entity.The commissioner charged that theentire industry was in conspiracy tokeep out competition.

constabularyn/ kEnzStabyETlerG /La body of policemen (as of aparticular town, district, country).The local constabulary was out inforce at the Halloween celebration.

constellationn/ TkBnztESlCshEn /Lany one of 88 arbitraryconfigurations of stars or an area ofthe celestial sphere covering one ofthese configurations.Rani found it difficult to see a scalein the constellation Libra.

construev/ kEnzStrV /L > Eexplain the sense or intention ofoften to ones own satisfaction oraccording to or in conformity witha given set of circumstances.Paul tried to construe the situationin the best possible light.

consuetuden/ SkBn(t)swDTt(y)Vd /Lsocial usage : custom, habit.The practice of men opening doorsfor women has fallen fromconsuetude.

consummateadj/ SkBn(t)sEmDt /Lof the very highest or finest :supremely excellent.Marie was worried that her sonwould ruin the party, but hebehaved like a consummategentleman.

contemplatev/ SkBntEmTplCt /Lcarefully and intently think aboutsomething : ponder.The board of directors willcontemplate the proposal from therival company.

contemptibleadj/ kEnStem(p)tEbEl /Lmeriting scorn and condemnationas paltry, mean, base, or vile.Though most people viewed theaccused man as a contemptiblebeing, Sister Agatha pitied him andtried to reach out to him.

contiguousadj/ kEnStigyEwEs /Ltouching or connected throughout.Mr. Wallace understands butresents higher shipping costs forU.S. customers living in statesoutside the contiguous 48.

contingenciesn pl/ kEnStinjEnsGz /Lpossible future events or conditionsor unforeseen occurrences that maynecessitate special measures.Setting the date of the familyreunion involved considering thecontingencies and conveniences ofabout 100 people.

contrabandn/ SkBntrETband /L > Itgoods or merchandise theimportation, exportation, orsometimes possession of which isforbidden.On the teachers desk sat thecontraband taken from studentsduring the day.

contrapuntaladj/ TkBntrESpEntFl /Itof, relating to, or according to therules of melodic part writing.J. S. Bach was a master ofcontrapuntal melody.

contrarietyn/ TkBntrESrIEZG /Lthe quality or state of being inopposition or disagreement.Amanda was becoming impatientwith her two-year-old sonscontrariety.

contretempsn/ kPMtrEtBM /F + L > Fan inopportune embarrassingoccurrence : mishap, mischance.Jeremy moved steadily fromblunder to contretemps toembarrassment.

contritionn/ kEnStrishEn /Lconsciousness of guilt or sin givingrise to humility and sorrow.In the warmth of true contrition shewould call upon Miss Bates thevery next morning, and it should bethe beginning, on her side, of aregular, equal, kindly relationship.

controversyn/ SkBntrETvErsG /La difference marked especially bythe expression of opposing views :dispute.Most television talk shows seemmore interested in creatingcontroversy than in trying toresolve it.

contumacyn/ kEnSt(y)VmEsG /L > Estubborn resistance to authority;specifically : willful contempt ofcourt.In the Middle Ages contumacycould be punished byexcommunication and the loss ofcivil rights.

contusionn/ kEnSt(y)VzhEn /La bruise caused by externalviolence.The contusion on Waynes shoulderbegan to fade nine days after hisaccident.

conundrumsn pl/ kESnEndrEmz /unknownriddles based on some fanciful orfantastic resemblance betweenthings quite unlike and forming apuzzling question whose answer isor involves a pun.Mr. Elton was invited to contributeany really good conundrums toEmmas collection of riddles ofevery sort.

convectionn/ kEnSvekshEn /Lthe circulatory motion that occursin a fluid at a nonuniformtemperature owing to the variationof its density and the action ofgravity.In the tropics, strong convectiondraws warm air high into the sky.

convergentadj/ kEnSvErjEnt /Ltending to move toward one pointor each other.The crowds leaving the stadiumbecame convergent on their way tothe subway entrance.

conversantadj/ kEnSvErsFnt /Lfamiliar or acquainted by use orstudy : well-informed.Sabendra is conversant in the latestmovements in European art.

convertiblen/ kEnSvErZEbEl /Lan automobile having a top thatmay be folded back, lowered, orremoved.Thelma and Louise enjoyedcruising the highway in Louisesconvertible.

convivialadj/ kEnSvivGEl /Lfond of good company andfestivity.The convivial lodge owners enjoyedsocializing with their guests.

conviviallyadv/ kEnSvivGElG /L + Ecfin a manner that is fond of goodcompany and festivity.Though the hostess felt ill andwanted to leave the party, shebehaved convivially.

coordinateadj/ kPSOrd(F)nDt /Lequal in rank, quality, orsignificance.The United States attempts to keepthe branches of governmentcoordinate.

Copernicanadj/ kPSpErnDkEn /Pol nameof, relating to, or being theastronomic system of Copernicus inwhich the Sun is taken as the centerof the planets.The Copernican view of the solarsystem was originally regarded asheretical.

copiousadj/ SkPpGEs /Lpresent in large quantity : plentiful,abundant, lavish.Patrick took copious notes duringthe lecture.

coquetryn/ SkPkDtrG /Feffort or action intended to attractadmiration, gallantry, or affectionwithout responsive feeling.The princess used coquetry as atool as a carpenter uses a hammer.

coraclen/ SkOrEkEl /Wa small boat made by covering awicker frame with hide or leather.Ted rowed an old coracle to thesmall island in the lake.

cordilleran/ TkO(r)dFlSerE /L > Spa group of mountain rangesforming a mountain system of greatlinear extent.The Andean cordillera extendsalong the west coast of SouthAmerica.

corduroyn/ SkO(r)dETrOi /F > E namea cut-pile fabric with vertical ribsor wales, usually made of cotton.His worn trousers of corduroy werethree inches too short.

coriandern/ TkPrGSandE(r) /Lan Old World herb whose ripeneddried fruit is used for flavoringespecially of pickles, curries,confectioneries, and liquor.Jane almost always uses corianderto season her stew.

cormorantn/ SkOrm(E)rEnt /L > F > Eany of various dark-colored web-footed seabirds.In parts of eastern Asia thecormorant is domesticated byfishermen.

cornicen/ SkOrnDs /Gk > L > It > Fthe typically molded and projectinghorizontal member that crowns anarchitectural composition.Here and there among the ruins ofthe great palace, a cornice or partof a column remained intact.

corniculateadj/ kO(r)SnikyElDt /Lhaving horns or small horn-shapedprocesses.In some species of animals, onlythe males are corniculate.

cornucopian/ TkO(r)n(y)ESkPpGE /La curved goats horn from themouth of which fruit and ears ofcorn overflow, emblematic ofabundancecalled also horn ofplenty.Robert placed various kinds of rollsin the basket shaped like acornucopia and set it in the centerof the table.

corollaryn/ SkOrETlerG /La proposition that follows upon onejust demonstrated and that requiresno additional proof.After proving the theorem, Mr.Barnes showed how the corollarylogically followed.

coronachn/ SkOrEnEk /ScGael&IrGaela lamentation for the dead as sungor played on the bagpipes inScotland and Ireland : dirge.The mournful coronach could beheard throughout the valley.

coronaryadj/ SkOrETnerG /Lof or involving the blood vessels ofthe heart; broadly : of or relating tothe heart.A blockage in a coronary arterycaused Toms heart attack.

coronern/ SkOrEnE(r) /L > F > AF > Ea public officer whose principalduty is to inquire into the cause ofany death which there is reason tosuppose is not due to naturalcauses.The job of coroner combineselements of medicine and detectivework.

coronetn/ TkOrESnet /Gk > L > Fa small or lesser crown usuallysignifying a high rank below that ofa sovereign.The princess happily let her youngcousin try on the coronet.

corporealadj/ kO(r)SpPrGEl /Lhaving, consisting of, or relating toa physical material body : notspiritual.Its very difficult for Mrs.OConnor to think in a corporealway.

corpulentadj/ SkO(r)pyElEnt /Lhaving a large bulky body.Mike and Edie laughed at thecorpulent gorilla as it stuffedbananas into its mouth.

corpusclen/ SkO(r)TpEsEl /La living cell that is somewhatisolated and not aggregated intocontinuous tissues.In the science fiction movie, a whitecorpuscle attacked the tiny ship asit traveled through thebloodstream.

corralv/ kESral /L > Sp[has homonym: chorale] round upand drive (livestock) into a pen.With the help of his dog, Jerrymanaged to corral the herd.

correspondv/ TkOrESspBnd /Lcommunicate with a person byexchange of letters.Mason and his friends correspondfrequently by e-mail.

corroboratev/ kESrBbETrCt /Lprovide evidence of the truth of :confirm.Without a witness to corroboratehis alibi, Zorba remained the chiefsuspect in the robbery case.

corrugatedadj/ SkOrETgCtDd /Lhaving a ridged or furrowedsurface.The corrugated sand dune lookedlike a work of art.

coruscatev/ SkOrETskCt /Lgleam with intermittent flashes :glitter, sparkle.The flickering light from Trudyslantern made the cave wallscoruscate.

corybanticadj/ TkOrDSbantik /Gklike or in the spirit of the attendantsor priests of the nature goddessCybele noted for wildly emotionalprocessions and rites; specifically :wild, frenzied.At the rock concert many fansengaged in corybantic dancing.

corymbn/ SkOTrim(b) /Gk > L > Fa flower cluster in which the flowerstalks arise at different levels on themain axis and reach about the sameheight, forming a somewhat flat-topped cluster.Each corymb of Queen Annes laceby the porch has a bumblebee on it.

cosmogenesisn/ TkBzmPSjenEsDs /Gka part of the science of astronomythat deals with the origin anddevelopment of the universe.Contrary to his expectations,Lionels study of cosmogenesismade him more religious.

cosmopoliten/ kBzSmBpETlIt /Gkone that is at home in everycountry.Although she considered herself acosmopolite, Sharon still couldntget used to driving on the left sideof the road.

coterien/ SkPZErG /Fan intimate often exclusive groupof persons having a bindingcommon interest or purpose :clique.Phyllis and her coterie arrivedfashionably late for the galleryopening.

cotyledonn/ TkBZFlSGdFn /Gk > Lthe first leaf or one of the first pairor whorl of leaves developed by theembryo in seed plants and in fernsand related plants.Mr. Pittman drew a fern cotyledonon the blackboard.

couchantadj/ SkaUchEnt /Flying down with the head up.The coat of arms depicted acouchant lion.

coulissen/ kVSlGs /Fa side scene of the stage in a theateror the space between the sidescenes.The path depicted in the coulisseled the eyes to the center stage.

couloirn/ kVlSwBr /L > Fa deep gorge.Lance hiked along the stream at thebottom of the couloir.

counseln/ SkaUn(t)sEl /L > F > E[has homonym: council] advice,direction.Mr. Knightley shared unpleasanttruths with Emma and provedhimself her friend by very faithfulcounsel.

countenancen/ SkaUnt(F)nEn(t)s /L > F > Ethe expressive appearance of onesface : look, expression.The department store Santascountenance set Loretta at ease.

countervailv/ SkaUntErTvCl /L > F > Eoppose or exert force against :counteract.Miles built a low wall around hissloping garden to countervailerosion.

coupn/ SkV /Fa sudden decisive exercise oflocalized or concentrated forceunseating the personnel of agovernment.The dictator was ousted by amilitary coup.

couriern/ SkUrGE(r) /L > It > F[has homonym: currier] one whocarries messages, news, orinformation either with urgent hasteor in accordance with a regularschedule.Jaime worked as a courier afterschool to earn money for a newcar.

couturen/ kVStU(E)r /L > Fthe business of designing, making,and selling fashionable expensivecustom-made womens clothing.At the Paris fashion shows Carolyntalked to several young designerswho were just starting out incouture.

covenantn/ SkEvEnEnt /L > F > Ean agreement that is usually formal,solemn, and intended as binding.The book of Genesis describesNoahs covenant with God thatsaved his family from the GreatFlood.

coveyn/ SkEvG /L > F > Ea small flock or number of birds ofthe same kindused typically ofpartridges and certain related birds.The hunter aimed at the covey ofquail flying over the pasture.

coyoten/ kISPZ(T)G /Nahuatl > Spa small wolf native to the westernpart of North America and wellestablished northward in Alaskaand eastward at least as far as NewYork state.The lone male coyote kept to theedges of the pack for many daysbefore being accepted into thegroup.

cozenedv/ SkEzFnd /L > Itobtained by artful wheedling ortricky dishonesty.The crooked lawyer cozened thelifes savings of several of hisclients.

credenzan/ krDSdenzE /L > Ita sideboard, buffet, or bookcasewithout legs whose base rests flaton the floor.Robins CDs are on the secondshelf of the credenza.

credulityn/ crDSd(y)VlEZG /Lbelief or readiness of beliefespecially on slight or uncertainevidence.Marcos personality was a strangemixture of shrewdness andcredulity.

creekologyn/ krGSkBlEjG /ON > E + Gkany method of searching for oilbased on a limited knowledge ofgeology and practiced especially bywildcat prospectors.Doug, who was known for his nosefor oil, attributed his success tocreekology.

crenateadj/ SkrGTnCt /Lhaving the margin cut into roundedscallops.The crenate leaves on Fredasspecimen gave her a clue as to itsclassification.

creophagyn/ krGSBfEjG /Gkthe use of flesh as food.After visiting a slaughterhouse,Stephanie was repulsed bycreophagy and became avegetarian.

crepitantadj/ SkrepEZEnt /Lhaving or making a crackling sound: crackling.The boys rolled and tumbled in thepile of crepitant leaves.

crepuscularadj/ krDSpEsk(y)ElE(r) /L + Ecfactive in the twilight.Darnel blurted out firefly whenthe teacher asked for an example ofa crepuscular insect.

crescendon/ krDSshen(T)dP /L > Itthe peak of a gradual increase (as inphysical or emotional force orintensity).As soon as his boat sailed out of theharbor, Angus realized that thewind was nearing a crescendo.

crescentn/ SkresFnt /L > F > Ethe shape or figure defined by aconvex and a concave edge.The moons silvery crescentdisappeared as the eclipse reachedtotality.

cresciveadj/ Skresiv /Lincreasing, growing.The crescive vines traveled up thetrellis.

crescographn/ SkreskETgraf /L + Ecf + Gkan instrument for makingperceptible the growth of plants.The crescograph can magnify smallplant movements as much as tenmillion times.

cribbagen/ Skribij /Ea card game for two and sometimesthree or four players each of whomis dealt six cards one or two ofwhich are discarded before play toform an extra hand for the dealer.Kathy and her cousins areferociously competitive when theyplay cribbage.

cribraladj/ SkribrEl /Lof or relating to a sieve : perforated.The mouths of certain whalescontain a cribral structure forcollecting food.

cricetidn/ krDSsGZDd /Slav > Lany of a family of small rodentsincluding lemmings, voles, andhamsters.The hamster is an example of acricetid that is kept as a pet.

crimsonn/ SkrimzEn /Ar > Sp > Eany of several deep or vivid reds orpurplish reds of rather indefiniterange.The sun was dropping slowly fromsight, and stripes of purple andorange and crimson and goldreached upward from the distanthills.

crinolinen/ SkrinFlDn /L > It > Fa full stiff skirt or underskirt.The crinoline that Andrea wore inthe pageant made her knees itch.

crochetingv/ krPSshCiN /F + Ecfworking with needleworkconsisting of the interlocking oflooped stitches formed with asingle thread and a hooked needle.Marie sat nearby crocheting andtried to take a friendly interest inthe game.

cromlechn/ SkrBmTlek /Wa circle of monoliths usuallyenclosing a dolmen or mound.Inspired by their study ofStonehenge, Mr. Akalas fifth-grade class built a cromlech on theplayground.

cronyismn/ SkrPnGTizEm /Gk + Ecfpartiality to familiar friendsespecially as evidenced in theappointing of political hangers-onto office without due regard fortheir qualifications.When the mayor appointed his bestfriend head of the policedepartment, he was accused ofcronyism.

croquetn/ krPSkC /Fa game in which players drivewooden balls with mallets througha series of wickets set out on a lawnin a particular order.Erica and her friends playedcroquet in the churchyard.

crotchetyadj/ SkrBchEZG /F > Esubject to whims, crankiness, or illtemper.Not getting enough sleep usuallymakes Trudy crotchety in themorning.

croupn/ SkrVp /imita spasmodic laryngitis in infantsand children characterized byepisodes of difficult breathing andhoarse cough.Mrs. Dowling hoped Everetts sorethroat wouldnt develop into croup.

croupiern/ SkrVpGTC /Fan employee of a gambling casinowho watches, collects, and paysbets and assists the dealer in chargeof the table.The croupier tossed two more $100chips onto Daphnes growing pile.

croustaden/ krVSstBd /Prov > Fa crisp shell (as of toasted or friedbread) in which to serve food.Louise didnt know whether or notshe was supposed to eat thecroustade in which her salad wasserved.

cruciblen/ SkrVsEbEl /La vessel or melting pot that is usedfor melting and calcining asubstance (as metal and ore) whichrequires a high degree of heat.Clyde began the experiment bydumping the collected samples intoa crucible.

cruciferousadj/ krVSsif(E)rEs /L + Ecffbelonging to or having thecharacteristics of the mustards orrelated plants.Cruciferous vegetables are anexcellent source of beta carotene.

crullern/ SkrElE(r) /Da small sweet cake made of a richegg batter formed into twistedstrips and fried brown in deep fat.Olive couldnt decide whether toorder a cruller or an clair withher coffee.

Crusaden/ krVSsCd /Fan expedition undertaken for adeclared religious purpose.The first Crusade to reclaimJerusalem for Christians began in1096.

crustaceann/ TkrESstCshEn /Lan animal belonging to a large classof Arthropoda comprising themajority of the marine orfreshwater arthropods (as lobsters,shrimps, crabs, and barnacles).Our teams mascot is Crusty theCrustacean, a ten-pound Mainelobster.

cryologyn/ krISBlEjG /Gkthe study of snow and ice.In cryology, students learn howglaciers grow, shrink, advance, andretreat.

cryophorusn/ TkrISBfErEs /Gk > Lan instrument that illustrates thefreezing of water by its ownevaporation.The cryophorus was made of glassin the form of a tube connectingtwo globes partially filled withliquid.

cryptographern/ kripStBgrEfE(r) /Gkone that practices the art ofpreparing or reading messages in aform intended to prevent theirbeing read by those not privy tosecrets of the form.An inveterate cryptographer, Ricoenjoys searching ordinary writingsamples for hidden messages.

cryptonymn/ SkriptETnim /Gka secret name.Each person in our club was givena cryptonym known only to theother members.

crystaladj/ SkristFl /Gkconsisting of or resembling quartzthat is transparent or nearly so andthat is either colorless or onlyslightly tinged.Once inside, they hurried down along hallway, which glittered withcrystal chandeliers.

crystosphenen/ SkristETsfGn /Gka buried sheet of ice under thetundra of North America formed bythe freezing of spring water.The geologist measured thethickness of the crystosphene.

cubicadj/ SkyVbik /Gk > L > Frelating to a crystal form thatconsists of six similar, mutuallyperpendicular faces.Gold crystallizes in a cubicstructure with a density of 19.4grams per cubic centimeter.

cucarachan/ TkVkESrBchE /Mexican songa Mexican ballroom and nightclubdance.Determined to win the stateballroom dance title, Joan andMarlon practiced their cucarachafor weeks.

cuchifriton/ TkVchiSfrGZP /Spa deep-fried cube of pork.When Lane wasnt looking,Stephanie popped a cuchifrito intothe dogs mouth.

cuckoon/ SkV(T)kV /E imitative[has homonym: kuku] a familiarEuropean bird that is noted for itscharacteristic two-syllabled whistleand for its habit of laying its eggsin the nests of other birds for themto hatch.The cuckoo in the aviary soundedjust like Grandmothers clock.

cucurbitn/ kyVSkErbDt /L > F > E(Note: Dictionary designates asattributive.) a many-seeded fleshyfruit plant with a hard rind (such assquashes, pumpkins, and certaingourds).The cucurbit is probably put to awider variety of uses than is anyother fruit family.

cudgeln/ SkEjEl /Ea short heavy stick used as aninstrument for punishment or aweapon.A nightstick is one kind of cudgel.

culgeen/ SkElTgG /Per > Hindia jeweled plume worn in India onthe turban.Professor Singh happily loaned hisgrandfathers culgee to themuseum.

culinaryadj/ SkElETnerG /Lof or relating to the kitchen orcookery.The early colonists used herbs forboth culinary and medicinalpurposes.

culminantadj/ SkElmEnEnt /Lbeing at greatest altitude or on themeridian.The Sun casts the shortest shadowswhen it is culminant.

culpableadj/ SkElpEbEl /Lmeriting condemnation or censureespecially as criminal or asconducive to accident, loss, ordisaster.The property owner was guilty ofculpable negligence in the accidentinvolving an uncovered manhole.

culpritn/ SkElprDt /L > AFone who is guilty of a crime orother wrongdoing.The detectives devised a plan tocapture the culprit.

cultivationn/ TkEltESvCshEn /Lthe art or process of farming.Frigid weather conditions andbarren soil make cultivation oftundra almost impossible.

culturatin pl/ TkElchESrBZ(T)G /Gk + Lcfpeople intensely interested in theartistic and intellectual aspects orcontent of human activity.The scheduled performance byThe Three Tenors generatedexcitement among the citysculturati.

cumbersomeadj/ SkEmbE(r)sEm /F > E + Ecfof an excessive size, shape, orlength : unwieldy.Emrick dragged his cumbersomeduffel bag by its strap.

cumbrousadj/ SkEmbrEs /Egiving trouble : vexatious.A swarm of cumbrous gnatsfollowed the hikers all day long.

cummerbundn/ SkEmE(r)TbEnd /Per > Hindia waistband worn in place of a vestwith mens dress clothes.The bride wanted the groomscummerbund to match the pale pinkof her flowers.

cuneiformadj/ kyVSnGDTfOrm /L + Lwritten in characters composed ofstrokes having the form of a wedgeor arrowhead.The cuneiform Code of Hammurabiis the most complete record ofancient Babylonian law inexistence.

cupressineousadj/ Tk(y)VprESsinGEs /Gk > L + Ecfrelating to or resembling thecypress.The wood of cupressineous trees isusually light, moderately hard, andvery durable.

curatorn/ kyESrCZE(r) /Lone in charge of the exhibits,research activities, and personnel ofa museum, zoo, or other place ofexhibit.Eric interviewed the curator ofmarine mammals at the aquarium.

curiousnessn/ SkyUrGEsnDs /L > F > E + Ecfthe quality of being inquisitive.Dickons round eyes were full ofeager curiousness but he said not aword.

curmudgeonn/ (T)kErSmEjEn /unknowna crusty, ill-tempered, or difficultand often elderly person.Fionas dad called her grandfathera cantankerous old curmudgeon.

currentadj/ SkErEnt /L[has homonyms: courant, currant]presently elapsing.In the current fiscal yearCornucopia College enjoys a slightbudget surplus.

curriculumn/ kESrikyElEm /Lthe whole body of courses offeredby an educational institution or oneof its branches.The school is planning to add Latinto its curriculum next year.

curtainn/ SkErtFn /L > F > Ethe screen separating the stage fromthe auditorium of a theater.The law states that the theatercurtain must be made of fireproofmaterial.

curtilagen/ SkErZFlij /F > Ea yard, courtyard, or other piece ofground included within a fencesurrounding a dwelling house.The police searched the house andthe curtilage for any clues relatingto the robbery.

curvaturen/ SkErvETchU(E)r /Lthe act or state of deviating from astraight line or course typicallywith a rounded gradual effect.The curvature of the brick pathgave the garden a pleasinginformality.

custardn/ SkEstE(r)d /L > Prov > Ea sweetened mixture of milk andeggs that is baked, boiled, orfrozen.Lemon custard is Harolds favoritedessert.

custodyn/ SkEstEdG /L > Echarge or control (as of a suspect)exercised by a person or anauthority.The suspect was kept in policecustody until she provided anincontrovertible alibi.

cutaneousadj/ kyVStCnGEs /Lof or relating to the skin.Cutaneous sensation includesfeeling cold, heat, contact, andpain.

cuticlen/ SkyVZDkEl /Lan external membranous orhardened noncellular investmentsecreted by the outer surface of thebody (as in arthropods).Because expansion cannot occur inthe chitinous cuticle, the growinginsect must periodically shed itscovering.

cyanosisn/ TsIESnPsDs /Gka bluish or purplish discoloration(as of skin) due to deficientoxygenation of the blood.Cyanosis may result frompneumonia, asphyxiation, heartfailure, or heart anomalies.

cyberneticsn pl/ TsIbE(r)SneZiks /Gkthe comparative study of theautomatic control system formedby the nervous system and brainand by mechanical-electricalcommunication systems anddevices (as computers orthermostats).Berthas new robotics softwarepromised to revolutionizecybernetics.

cyclicaladj/ SsIklDkEl /Gkof, relating to, or belonging to aregularly recurring succession ofevents or phenomena.Mr. Ramirez explained the cyclicalphases of the Moon to the scienceclass today.

cyclogenesisn/ TsI(T)klPSjenEsDs /Gkthe process of development orintensification of a rotating stormsystem.Satellites have greatly improved themonitoring of cyclogenesis.

cyclonicadj/ sISklBnik /Gkof, relating to, or having thecharacteristics of a rotating storm.Cyclonic disturbances known ashurricanes usually occur during thesummer and fall.

cygnetn/ SsignDt /Gk > L > F > Ea young swan.Six-year-old Abby, openlycontemptuous of the fairy tale,patiently explained to her motherthat theres no way an uglyduckling can turn into a swanonly a cygnet can.

cynegeticsn pl/ TsinDSjeZiks /Gkthe art of hunting.Mrs. White began her talk aboutcynegetics with a recording ofmelodies played on hunting horns.

cynologyn/ sDSnBlEjG /Gk[has homonym: sinology]scientific study of the dogespecially in respect to its naturalhistory.Having a coyote as a childhood petgave Rick an early interest incynology.

cynophilistn/ sDSnBfElDst /Gk[Note: Could be confused withform of sinophil/sinophile.] a dogfancier : one that is favorablydisposed toward dogs.Although Leon considered himselfa cynophilist, he did not trust thepit bull terrier.

cynosuren/ SsInETshU(E)r /Gka center of attraction or interest.The student union, with its billiardtables, bowling alley, and snackbar, is a cynosure for freshmenduring orientation week.

Cythereanadj/ TsithESrGEn /Gk > L + Ecfof or relating to the goddess Venusor to the planet Venus.The Cytherean atmosphere has ahigh concentration of sulfuric acid.

cytologyn/ sIStBlEjG /Gk + Gk[has homonym: sitology] thebranch of biology concerned withthe study of cells as vital units withreference to their structure,function, multiplication, pathology,and life history.For differentiating between benignand malignant lesions, cytologyoffers a more precise method ofdiagnosis than does the use of Xrays.

dachshundn/ SdBksThUnt /G + Ga small dog of a breed of Germanorigin having long drooping ears,commonly a short sleek coat, andthe legs short in comparison withthe body length.Chloe has a brown dachshundnamed Oscar.dacquoisen/ dAkwAAz /Fa dessert made of baked layers ofnut meringue with a filling usuallyof buttercream.The hotel dessert buffet included achocolate-pecan dacquoise.

dactylogramn/ dakStilETgram /Gk + Gkan impression taken from afinger : fingerprint.Calvin used a magnifying glass toexamine the loops and whorls in adactylogram of his index finger.

dactyloscopyn/ TdaktESlBskEpG /Gkidentification by comparison offingerprints.Dactyloscopy indicated that thesuspects fingerprints are indeed onthe murder weapon.

daedaladj/ SdGdFl /Gkingeniously formed or working :like a maze : intricate.The childrens quiz show led itscontestants through a daedaljourney of stunts and questions.

daffodilsn pl/ SdafETdilz /D + L > F > Dplants having flowers that have alarge corona elongated into atrumpet.These flowers blooming in the snoware daffodils and snowdrops.

dahlian/ SdalyE /Sw name > La plant of a genus of tuberous-rooted herbs having rayed flowerheads.The brightly colored flowers of thedahlia can be six inches indiameter.

daisn/ SdCDs /L > F > Ea platform raised usually above thefloor of a hall or large room to givedistinction or prominence to thoseoccupying it.A round dais was exactly in thecenter of the room.

Daliesqueadj/ TdBlGSesk /Sp nameresembling or suggesting thepaintings of the Spanish surrealistartist Dali.The poster showed a Daliesqueface with feathers poking out ofeach nostril.

Damocleanadj/ TdamESklGEn /Gk name + Ecfinvolving imminent danger.Retrieving the car keys from thepiranha tank was a Damocleantask indeed.

danseusen/ dBMSsE(r)z /Fa female ballet dancer.Denise was advised that being adanseuse was as exhausting as itwas rewarding.

Dantesqueadj/ TdBnStesk /It nameof, relating to, or resembling theItalian writer Dante or his writings.The Dantesque image of a soul intorture repulsed Regina.

dashingadj/ SdashiN /E imit + Ecfvigorously active : spirited.The dashing actor was the talk ofthe party.

dawdlern/ SdOd(F)lE(r) /unknown + Ecfone who wastes time in idlelingering.Lauren was such a dawdler thatshe often missed the school bus.

dazzlingv/ Sdaz(E)liN /ON > E + Ecfoverpowering with brightness :shining.Morgan took great satisfaction indazzling his neighbors with hisChristmas light display.

dearthn/ SdErth /Escarcity : lack of a presentnecessity.The general realized that his armywas suffering from a dearth of self-confidence.

debaclen/ dDSbBkEl /L > OProv > Fa sudden breakdown : collapse.Craig reads everything he can findregarding the Wall Street debacleof 1929.

debenturen/ dDSbenchE(r) /La writing or certificate signed by apublic officer as evidence of a debtor of a right to demand or receive asum of money.Uncle John treasures the debentureissued by the Confederategovernment, even though it isactually worthless.

debouchmentn/ dDSbVshmEnt /Fa mouth or outlet especially of ariver.The rivers debouchment had to bedredged because the sediment wasa hazard to navigation.

debridementn/ dDSbrGdTmBM /Fthe surgical removal of lacerated,devitalized, or contaminated tissue.The doctor explained to thefirefighter why debridement wasthe best treatment for his second-degree burns.

debrisn/ dESbrG /Fthe remains of something brokendown or destroyed.Scattered debris lies wheremajestic homes stood before lastweeks tornado.

decedentn/ dDSsGdFnt /La dead person; especially : a personwho has recently died.The relatives of the decedentgathered for the reading of the will.

deceitfuladj/ dDSsGtfEl /E + Ecfdishonest.The Better Business Bureau warnedJasper of the awning companysdeceitful business practices.

deceivev/ dDSsGv /L > F > Ecause to believe the false : delude.Caras forgery of her motherssignature did not deceive theprincipal.

deceleratev/ dGSselETrCt /Llessen the speed of : slow down.Reversing engine thrust is used todecelerate jets upon landing.

decibeln/ SdesETbel /L + Scottish-American namea unit for measuring the relativeloudness of sounds equalapproximately to the smallestdegree of difference of loudnessordinarily detectable by the humanear.Differences of one decibel can beimportant to a recording engineer.

deciduousadj/ dDSsijEwEs /Lfalling off or shed at the end of thegrowing period, at certain seasons,or at certain stages of development.Deciduous trees drop their leaveseach fall.

decimatev/ SdesETmCt /Lselect by lot and kill every tenthperson of.The terrorist promised to decimatethe group of hostages every halfhour until his demands were met.

decipheredv/ dDSsIfE(r)d /L + Ar > L > F > Emade out, read, or interpreteddespite obscuration.When one considers the variety ofhandwriting, and of badhandwriting, too, that must bedeciphered, it increases the wonderthat so seldom a letter is deliveredto the wrong person.

decisteren/ SdesDTsti(E)r /Fa metric unit of capacity equal to1/10 cubic meter.Caleb bought a decistere of limefor his front lawn.

declamatoryadj/ dDSklamETtPrG /Lmarked by rhetorical effect ordisplay : stilted.Minnas declamatory sermonalienated many of her listeners.

declivateadj/ dDSklITvCt /Linclining downward : sloping.Mary Ann slid down the declivateroof of the playhouse.

decomposev/ TdGkEmSpPz /L > Fseparate or resolve into constituentparts or elements or into simplercompounds.Mr. Landry asked the studentswhether they knew any compoundsother than methanol whichdecompose into carbon dioxide andwater.

decorousadj/ SdekErEs /Lmarked by propriety and goodtaste.Lucia was surprised to find that thedisc jockey was as decorous off theair as he was volcanic while on theair.

decorticatev/ dGSkO(r)ZETkCt /Lremove the bark, husk, or otherouter covering from.Sharp front teeth allow squirrels todecorticate hickory nuts.

decoupagen/ TdCkVSpBzh /Fthe art of decorating surfaces byapplying cutouts and then coatingthem with several layers of a finishsuch as lacquer or varnish.Aunt Hazels interest in arts andcrafts was kindled by a free class indecoupage.

decumanadj/ SdekyEmEn /L(of a wave) : extremely large.That decuman wave that took theship fore and aft swept the life raftoff the deck.

decussateadj/ SdekEsDt /Lshaped like an X.Each wing of the moth had adecussate marking.

defeasibleadj/ dDSfGzEbEl /F + Ecfcapable of being or liable to beingvoided, annulled, or undone.When a family adopts a baby,several requirements have to bemet; otherwise the adoption isdefeasible.

defendantn/ dDSfendEnt /L > Fa person required to make answerin an action or suit in law or equityor in a criminal action.When the foreman of the jury readthe verdict of not guilty, thedefendant embraced his attorneys.

defervescencen/ TdG(T)fErSvesFn(t)s /Lthe subsidence of a fever.Antonios mother was relieved tonote the signs of defervescence inher son.

deficiencyn/ dDSfishEnsG /Lthe quality or state of lacking somequality, faculty, or characteristicnecessary for completeness.Scurvy is caused by a deficiency ofvitamin C in the diet.

definiteadj/ Sdef(E)nDt /Lfree of all ambiguity, uncertainty,or obscurity.Dad sounded quite definite when hetold us to turn off the TV.

dehiscencen/ dDShisFn(t)s /L + Ecfthe bursting open of a capsule orpod at maturity.In dry weather, dehiscence of someseed pods occurs prematurely.

deipnosophistn/ dIpSnBsEfDst /Gka person skilled in table talk.Clints reputation as adeipnosophist makes him an idealdinner guest.

delectableadj/ dDSlektEbEl /Ldeliciously flavored.JoAnne selected Black Forest cakefrom the delectable dessertofferings.

deleteriousadj/ TdelDStirGEs /Gkhurtful, destructive.The museum did not permit flashphotography because of thepossible deleterious effects on thepaintings.

deleteriouslyadv/ TdelDStirGEslG /Gk + Ecfin a hurtful or destructive manner.It seems that every day we arereminded that smoking affects thebody deleteriously.

delicacyn/ SdelDkEsG /Lsomething pleasing to eat that isaccounted rare or luxurious.Caviar is considered a delicacy.

delicatessenn/ TdelDkEStesFn /F > Ga store where ready-to-eat foodproducts (as cooked meats andprepared salads) are sold.Marta stopped at the delicatessento buy some cold cuts for our lunch.

deliciousadj/ dDSlishEs /Lappealing to one of the bodilysenses, especially that of taste.Judith said the fudge was the mostdelicious she had ever tasted.

delinquentn/ dDSliNkwEnt /La transgressor against duty or law.The police referred to Harold as adelinquent when he was foundon the street after curfew.

deliquescev/ TdelESkwes /Lbecome soft or liquid with age.After a couple of weeks in therefrigerator, lettuce begins todeliquesce.

deliriousadj/ dDSlirGEs /Laffected with frenzied excitementor wild enthusiasm.The delirious fans rushed onto thefield to congratulate thechampions.

delitescentadj/ TdelEStesEnt /Llying hidden : obfuscated, latent.The psychiatrist tried to discoverthe delitescent significance of hispatients dreams.

deltiologyn/ TdeltGSBlEjG /Gkthe hobby of collecting postcards.Jodie got started in deltiology justlast year but already has postcardsfrom over 100 countries.

delugen/ Sdel(T)yVj /L > F > Ea drenching rain : downpour.The children were caught in adeluge as they waited for the schoolbus.

demagogueryn/ SdemETgBg(E)rG /Gk + Ecfthe principles or practices ofrabble-rousers.Economic hardship often gives riseto demagoguery.

demarcatev/ dDSmBrTkCt /Gmc > It > Spmark by bounds.Sol used fishing line to demarcatehis half of the room from hisbrothers.

demeanorn/ dDSmGnE(r) /L > F > Ebehavior toward others : outwardmanner.The vice-presidents icily seriousdemeanor was fodder for the late-night talk shows.

demesnen/ dDSmCn /F[has near homonym: domain] legalpossession of land as ones own.The earl vowed to defend hisdemesne at any cost.

demijohnn/ SdemGTjBn /F + F name > Ea narrow-necked bottle of glass orstoneware that is enclosed inwickerwork and has one or twowicker handles.Water glugged from the demijohnas Emily emptied it on the lawn.

demitassen/ SdemGTtas /L > F > E + Per > Ar > Fa small cup of coffee usually takenblack.Nathan sipped nervously at ademitasse while he waited for hisattorney.

democracyn/ dDSmBkrEsG /Gk > La government by the people : ruleof the majority.Cara could not imagine what herlife would be like if it weregoverned not by a democracy butinstead by the whims of a fewpeople.

demographyn/ dDSmBgrEfG /Gkthe statistical study of thecharacteristics of humanpopulations especially withreference to size and density,growth, distribution, migration, andvital statistics.Beths interest in demography ledher to a career in advertising.

demulcentadj/ dDSmElsEnt /Lsoothing, softening.The pharmacist told Boris that ademulcent syrup would be best forhis sore throat.

demursn pl/ dDSmErz /Ldifficulties in making up onesmind : indecisions.Harriets message wasunequivocal, containing no doubtsor demurs.

denguen/ SdeN(T)gG /African? > Sp[has homonym: dinghy] an acuteinfectious disease characterized bysudden onset, headache, rackingjoint pain, and a rash and caused bya virus transmitted by mosquitoes.The African village wasquarantined after an outbreak ofdengue.

denizenn/ SdenEzEn /L > F > Ea dweller in a certain place orregion.Melvin asked a local denizen fordirections.

denouementn/ TdCnVSmBM /L > Fthe final outcome, result, orunraveling of the main dramaticcomplication in a play or otherwork of literature.The loose ends of the plot wereneatly tied up in the surprisingdenouement.

dentifricen/ SdentEfrDs /La powder, paste, or liquid used incleaning the teeth.John decided to use a dentifricecontaining baking soda.

denunciationn/ dDTnEnsGSCshEn /Lthe act of pronouncing (as a person,idea, course of conduct, or politicalphilosophy) as blameworthy orevil.The senators speech was adenunciation of many federalprograms.

depilatoryn/ dDSpilETtPrG /L > Fa cosmetic for the temporaryremoval of undesired hair.Hank mixed a depilatory into hissister's shampoo.

deprecatedv/ SdeprDTkCZDd /Lsought to avert.When a very thick letter from Mr.Churchill was brought to Emma,she guessed what it must containand deprecated the necessity ofreading it.

depredatoryadj/ SdeprEdETtPrG /Ltending to lay waste or prey upon :plundering.Following the earthquake,depredatory gangs looted manystores.

depuratev/ SdepyETrCt /Lfree from impurities orheterogeneous matter : purify,cleanse.The hiking book advised usingiodine tablets and a filter todepurate groundwater beforedrinking it.

deracinatedadj/ dDSrasFnTCtEd /L > F + Ecfphysically, mentally, oremotionally separated from onesracial, social, or intellectual group.Ericas father worries that shemight become deracinated at sucha large university.

derailleurn/ dDSrClE(r) /F[has homonym: derailer] amechanism for shifting gears on abicycle that operates by moving thechain from one set of exposed gearsto another.Laurents derailleur jammed a fewminutes into the race, and he wasforced to the side of the road.

derangedadj/ dDSrCnjd /Fdisordered, unbalanced.Janes health seemed completelyderanged, though she had noabsolutely alarming symptoms.

derelictn/ SderETlikt /La thing voluntarily abandoned byits owner with the intention of notretaking it and rightly claimed bythe first person who takespossession of it; specifically : aboat abandoned on the high seas.Tom sank his yacht when hisrescuers arrived lest it become aderelict.

derelictionn/ TderESlikshEn /Lintentional or conscious neglect (asof principles).The security guard was summarilyfired for dereliction of duty.

dermatitisn/ TdErmEStIZDs /Gk > Linflammation of the skin typicallymarked by reddening, swelling, andscaling.Bonnie treated her dermatitis withaloe juice.

dermonecroticadj/ TdEr(T)mPTnDSkrBZik /Gkrelating to or causing the death ofskin tissue.The powerful medication had adermonecrotic effect on UncleArthurs legs.

derogatoryadj/ dDSrBgETtOrG /Lexpressive of low estimation orreproach : disdainful.Janet did not appreciate thederogatory remarks her brothermade about her dress.

derrickn/ Sderik /E namethe framework or tower over a deepdrill hole (as that of an oil well) forsupporting the tackle for boring orfor hoisting and lowering.The rocket was supported on thelaunch pad by a tower that was aconverted oil derrick.

descentv/ dGSsent /L + Erid of odor or smell.After their dog was sprayed by askunk, the Andersons triedeverything to descent him, butnothing worked.

descriedv/ dDSskrId /F > Ecaught sight of especially bywatchful attention and carefulobservation of the distant,uncertain, or obscure.When the dog descried his masterwalking up the lane, he hurried outto greet him.

desiccatev/ SdesDTkCt /L[has near homonym: desecrate] dryup or cause to dry up : deprive orexhaust of moisture.The hot sunshine and the dry windcombined to desiccate Marthastomato plants.

desmann/ SdezmEn /Swan aquatic insectivorous mammalof Russia that resembles a mole.At one end the desman has a long,flared snout and at the other end along, flattened tail.

desolateadj/ SdesElDt /Lcharactized by abandonment,isolation, or barrenness.The irrigation project revived theonce desolate farming community.

despairn/ dDSspa(a)(E)r /Lutter loss of hope.Despair overcame Gerald as hestared at his French exam.

desperadon/ TdespESrB(T)dP /L > Spa bandit of the western frontier.Louis pretended to be a desperadoholding up a stagecoach.

despicableadj/ dDSspikEbEl /Lmeriting hatred, scorn, or loathing.Sylvesters stress level would begreatly reduced if he found fewersituations despicable.

despotismn/ SdespETtizEm /Gk > Fabsolute government in whichpower is vested in a single ruler.Those who believe in the progressof humanity have a hard timeexplaining 20th-century despotism.

desquamatev/ SdeskwETmCt /Lpeel off in the form of scales.Ed came down with scarlet feverand was horrified when his skinbegan to desquamate.

destriern/ SdestrGEr /L > F > Ea large powerful horse used as awar-horse by a medieval knight.The knight rapidly saddled hisdestrier and galloped off to battlethe invaders.

desuetuden/ SdeswGTtVd /Ldiscontinuance from use, practice,exercise, or functioning : a state ofprotracted suspension or ofapparent abandonment.In some schools the practice ofmemorizing great poems has falleninto desuetude.

desultorilyadv/ TdesElStPrElG /Lin an erratic, wavering manner.Orna behaved desultorily at thedress rehearsal.

desultoryadj/ SdesElTtPrG /Lnot cogently relevant : digressive.Nancys comments in class areusually rather desultory, but todayher remarks were very relevant.

detectiven/ dDStektiv /La plainclothes police officer.The detective asked the bystandersif any of them had actually seen theshooter.

deterrencen/ dDStErEn(t)s /L + Ecfthe act or process of turning aside,discouraging, or preventing fromacting especially by fear.The police hoped that Teds severejail sentence would promote thedeterrence of criminal acts by theother gang members.

deterrentn/ dDStErEnt /Lsomething that discourages orprevents from acting by fear orconsideration of unpleasantattendant consequences.The police hoped that Teds severejail sentence would serve as adeterrent to criminal activity by theother gang members.

detritusn/ dDStrIZEs /La product of disintegration orwearing away : fragment orfragmentary material.The aerial photo of Dons ranchshows a fan of detritus at the mouthof the gulch.

deucen/ Sd(y)Vs /L > F[has near homonyms: dos, dues] atie in tennis in points toward agame or in games requiring scoringof two consecutive points by oneside to win the game or set.The first point won in tennis afterdeuce is called advantage in ifwon by the server, advantage outif won by the receiver.

deuteragonistn/ Td(y)VZESragEnDst /Gk + Gka person who serves as a foil toanother.The movies hero was thwarted bythe villainous deuteragonist.

deuteranopian/ Td(y)VZErESnPpGE /Gkred-green blindness believed due toa defect in the optic nerve.Joels deuteranopia disqualifiedhim from the Air Forces pilotschool.

dhurrien/ SdErG /Hindia thick cotton cloth or carpet madein India.The dhurrie in Morgans foyer isone she purchased during her tripto Delhi.

diabetesn/ TdIESbGZGz /Gkany of certain abnormal conditionscharacterized by the secretion andexcretion of excessive amounts ofurine.Drugs and diet changes can controldiabetes in most patients.

diablerien/ dGSBblE(T)rG /L > Fdealings with the devil or devils :witchcraft, sorcery.Each Halloween, stories ofdiablerie resurface in the media.

diademn/ SdIETdem /Gk > L > F > Ecrown; specifically : an ornamentalheadband worn (as by Easternmonarchs) as a badge of royalty.A brocade diadem would be aperfect finishing touch for JoshsKing David costume.

diagnosev/ SdIDgTnPs /Gk > Lidentify a condition by evaluatingits signs and symptoms.Dr. Morris was reluctant todiagnose Tinas condition until hehad the test results.

diagonaladj/ dISagEnFl /Gk > Lrunning across from corner tocorner.Chris preferred the tile floor withthe diagonal pattern.

dialysisn/ dISalEsDs /Gkthe separation of substances insolution by means of their unequaldiffusion through semipermeablemembranes.Blood was removed from thepatient, purified by dialysis, andthen returned to the patientsbloodstream.

diapasonn/ TdIESpCzFn /Gk > La burst of harmonious sound :melody, strain.The trumpeters filled the courtyardwith thrilling diapason.

diaphanousadj/ dISafEnEs /GK > Lcharacterized by such fineness anddelicacy of texture as to permitseeing through.The jellyfish were so diaphanousthat you could be next to them inthe water and never know theywere there.

diasporan/ dISasp(E)rE /Gka dispersion (as of people of acommon national origin or ofcommon beliefs).The guest lecturer at the ModernLanguage Association meetingjokingly referred to the diaspora ofEsperanto speakers.

diatriben/ SdIETtrIb /Gka bitter, abusive, and usuallylengthy speech or piece of writing.After supper, Deirdre launched intoher familiar diatribe againstcommercial television.

dicerousadj/ SdisErEs /Gkhaving two antennae.Because most insects have a pair ofantennae, they are dicerous.

dichotomyn/ dISkBZEmG /Gkthe phase of the Moon or aninferior planet in which just half itsdisk appears illuminated.The Moon had just reacheddichotomy when Amos beganplanting.

didacticadj/ dISdaktik /Gkfitted or intended to teach.Guys innovative and effectivedidactic style inspired his studentsto produce amazing work.

dieteticsn pl/ TdIESteZiks /Gkthe science or art of applying theprinciples of nutrition to thefeeding of individuals or groupsunder different economicconditions or for hygienic ortherapeutic purposes.Pam concentrated on dietetics inher graduate studies with hopes ofjoining a world hungerorganization after receiving herdegree.

difficultadj/ SdifE(T)kElt /Lhard to understand : puzzling,obscure.There were so many words thatwere difficult, and Milo knewhardly any of them.

diffidentadj/ SdifEdEnt /Llacking confidence in oneself :distrustful of ones own powers.Emma was always quick andassured; her sister was slow anddiffident.

digitalisn/ TdijEStalDs /Lthe dried leaf of the purplefoxglove containing substances thatare used to prepare a drug that is aheart stimulant.Digitalis has proved to be the mosteffective treatment for Gingersheart disorder.

dilapidatedadj/ dDSlapETdCZEd /Ldecayed, deteriorated, injured, orfallen into partial ruin.Only birds and bats resided in thedilapidated old house.

dilatoryadj/ SdilETtPrG /Lcharacterized by procrastination ordelay : slow.Mr. Knightley always moved withthe alertness of a mind which couldbe neither undecided nor dilatory.

dillydallyv/ SdilGTdalG /Gmc > F > Ewaste time by loitering or delay.Theres lots to do; we have a verybusy schedulefrom 6:00 to 7:00we dillydally, he exclaimed.

diluentn/ SdilyEwEnt /Lan inert substance added to amixture especially for reducing theconcentration of active ingredients.Water added to the insecticide actsas a diluent and a carrier.

dilutev/ dISlVt /Lmake less concentrated : diminishthe strength, activity, or flavor of.Because of the heat produced,caution is needed when using waterto dilute concentrated sulfuric acid.

dimensionn/ dDSmenchEn /La measurable aspect such as lengthor width.Height is one dimension of a cube.

diminutiveadj/ dDSminyEZiv /Lsmall especially in size : tiny.Kerry was first to notice thediminutive hummingbird at thehoneysuckle bush.

dimissoryadj/ SdimETsPrG /Ldismissing or granting leave todepart.Upon hearing the principalsdimissory words, the studentsbolted out of the auditorium.

dinosauricadj/ TdInESsO(E)rik /Gk + Gk + Ecfhuge.Angela was astounded by thedinosauric size of the statue ofAbraham Lincoln at the LincolnMemorial.

diocesen/ SdIEsDs /Gk > L > Fthe district in which a bishop haschurchly authority.The local bishops diocese coversfive counties.

diphtherian/ difSthirGE /Gkan acute highly contagious bacterialdisease chiefly of young childrenthat is marked by swelling andobstruction of the throat.During the Depression, diphtheriaclaimed the lives of many children.

diphthongn/ SdifTthON /Gka gliding monosyllabic sound thatstarts at or near the articulatoryposition for one vowel and movesto or toward the position foranother.Many people do not pronounce thediphthong in the word realtorcorrectly.

diphyodontadj/ dISfiETdBnt /Gkhaving deciduous and permanentsets of teeth successively.The teeth of most reptiles arenaturally replaced throughout life,but most mammals are diphyodont.

diplopian/ dDSplPpGE /Gka disorder of vision in which twoimages of a single object are seen,owing to unequal action of the eyemuscles.Shirley noticed that her medicineproduced the side effects ofdizziness and diplopia.

dipodyn/ SdipEdG /Gk > La prosodic unit or measure of twofeet.The teacher commented on thepoets use of dipody for dramaticeffect.

diptychn/ Sdip(T)tik /Gka picture or series of picturespainted on two tablets connected byhinges.The churchs altarpiece is aByzantine diptych.

dirigiblen/ SdirEjEbEl /L + Ecfairship.The explosion of the dirigibleHindenburg is famous for itsdramatic radio coverage.

dirigismen/ dGrGzhGsm(F) /L > Feconomic planning and control bythe state.Dirigisme is a characteristic ofsocialist law.

disappointedadj/ TdisESpOintDd /L > Fdefeated in expectation or hope.Kens parents were disappointedthat he earned only a D in math.

discalcedadj/ diSskalst /Lunshod, barefooted.The discalced runner became acelebrity at the Olympics.

discerptibleadj/ dDSsErptEbEl /L + Ecfcapable of being torn to pieces orpulled apart.Als pet dog made short work of hisdiscerptible stuffed animals.

disciplesn pl/ dDSsIpElz /Lthose who receive instruction fromanother : followers.Katrina was among Mr. Cranesmusical disciples who assembledfor instruction one evening a week.

disclaimantn/ dDSsklCmEnt /L > Fone who makes a denial ordisavowal of legal claim.The disclaimant did not want anypart of his grandfathers estate.

discomfituren/ dDSskEmfETchU(E)r /L > F > Ethe state of being disconcerted orabashed : confusion,embarrassment.The bright lights added to Vernesdiscomfiture as he stood behind thelectern.

discothequen/ SdiskETtek /Gk > L > Fa nightclub for dancing to recordedmusic.Allen is a disk jockey at a populardiscotheque in Chicago.

discrepancyn/ dDSskrepEnsG /Ldifference, variation, inconsistency.The accountant found a mysteriousdiscrepancy between the twopayroll records.

discretionn/ dDSskreshEn /Lpower of decision : individualjudgment.The Constitution was framed andadopted to establish a governmentthat should not depend on stateopinion and state discretion.

disdainn/ dDsSdCn /L > F > Ea feeling of contempt and aversionfor something regarded asunworthy of or beneath one : scorn,contempt.This, said Clara with completedisdain, is my little brother.disemboguev/ TdisDmSbPg /L > Spdischarge water from an outlet ormouth.Many streams disembogue into theriver along its course.

disentanglev/ TdisDnStaNgEl /L > Ecf + Estraighten out : unravel.Mrs. Luce helped Daviddisentangle the strands of the plotin Hamlet.

disguisev/ dDsSgIz /E, Fchange the customary dress orappearance of.Ben tried to disguise his voice whenhe telephoned Jill.

disingenuousnessn/ TdisDnSjenyEwEsnDs /Lstate of being unworthily or meanlyartful.Disingenuousness and doubledealing seemed to meet Mr.Churchill at every turn.

disintegrationn/ dDsTintESgrCshEn /Lthe act or process of shatteringsuddenly : flying to bits.Mark caused the disintegration ofthe mirror when he slammed thedoor.

dismaladj/ SdizmEl /L > F > Emarked by gloom, dejection,somberness, or depression ofspirits.The children who forgot theirgloves spent a dismal recesslooking out the window at thesnow.

disobeyv/ TdisPSbC /Frefuse or fail to abide by orders,rules, or laws.A well-trained dog would notdisobey a familiar command.

disparagev/ dDSsparij /F > Espeak slightingly of.Arthur did not want to disparagehis mothers cooking, so hecomplimented her on her pot roastand secretly fed it to the dog.

disparityn/ dDSsparEZG /Lmarked difference (as in age, rank,grade, condition, quantity, quality,or kind).The evil of the actual disparitybetween Mr. Woodhouses and hisdaughters ages was increased byhis constitution and habits.

disputatiousadj/ TdispyEStCshEs /Linclined to argue for or againstsomething asserted or maintained.Helen did not enjoy going to familyreunions because of herdisputatious relatives.

disquisitionn/ TdiskwESzishEn /Lan elaborate analytical orexplanatory discussion : discourse.Rhettas first book was a lengthydisquisition on the Irish potatofamine.

dissentientadj/ dESsench(G)Ent /Lnot concurring : disagreeing.There was not a dissentient voiceon the subject.

dissimilituden/ Tdi(s)sDSmilETtVd /Llack of resemblance.Although the plots of Garys twostories resemble each other, thereare several points of dissimilitude.

dissipatedv/ SdisETpCZDd /Ldispelled, dissolved.Mr. Knightley walked in soon aftertea and dissipated everymelancholy fancy.

dissuadev/ dDSswCd /Ldivert by advice or persuasion :turn from something by reasoning.Penny tried to dissuade her friendfrom making a choice she mightlater regret.

dissymmetryn/ di(s)SsimEtrG /Gk + Gk + Gkthe absence of or the lack ofbalanced proportions.The quilt designer was inspired bydissymmetry in crystal formations.

dithyrambn/ SdithDTram /Gka statement or piece of writing inan exalted impassioned styleusually in praise of something.Dennis launched into a dithyrambon Moiras beauty and manifoldvirtues.

ditokousadj/ SdiZEkEs /Gkproducing two eggs or young at atime.Most common songbirds areditokous.

dittologyn/ diStBlEjG /Gka double reading or twofoldinterpretation (as of a biblical text).Millicents first lecture of thesemester was a dittology of thestory of Genesis entitled Serpentor Savior?diuretic

diurnaladj/ dISErnFl /Lactive chiefly during the daytime.Few cats are naturally diurnal,which can be a problem for light-sleeping owners.

divagatev/ SdIvETgCt /Lmove or extend in differentdirections from a common point.Several ancient caravan routesdivagate from the extinct oasis.

divestituren/ dISvestETchU(E)r /L + Ecfthe compulsory transfer of title ordisposal of interests (as stock in acorporation) upon governmentorder.The Interstate CommerceCommission ordered the divestitureof the company to be carried out nolater than September 30.

divulgev/ dDSvElj /Ltell or make known.Ken was reluctant to divulge thedetails of the merger.

docentn/ SdPsFnt /La person who guides groupsthrough a museum or art galleryand discusses and comments on theexhibits.Judds interest in ancient historywas sparked by a knowledgeabledocent during a field trip to amuseum.

docilelyadv/ SdBsDl(l)G /Lin an obedient or submissivemanner.Gregs pet dog docilely follows hisevery command.

docilityn/ dBSsilEZG /Lthe quality or state of being easilytaught, led, or managed.Docility and intelligence areimportant qualities that breederslook for in the horses they buy.

doctrinairen/ TdBktrDSna(a)(E)r /L > Fone who attempts to put into effectsome especially political theorywith little or no regard for practicaldifficulties.Benito described his opponent asan ivory-tower doctrinaire.

documentaryn/ TdBkyESmentErG /La presentation (as a film or novel)that has the objective quality,authority, or force ofdocumentation in the representationof a scene, place, condition of lifeor of a social or political problemor cause.The documentary is being producedby environmentalists who protestthe destruction of forests.

dolcissimoadv/ dPlSchGsETmP /L > Itvery sweet or softused as adirection in music.The composer and the conductorargued over whether the passageshould be played dolcissimo.

dolefuladj/ SdPlfEl /L > E + Ecfattended with or indicating grief ora morose or despairing attitude.Martha had a doleful look on herface as she gazed out the window atthe rain.

dolioformadj/ SdPlGETfOrm /Lshaped like a barrel.The barrel cactus is a commondolioform plant of the deserts ofNorth and South America.

dolorifugen/ dESlOrETfyVj /L > F > Esomething that banishes ormitigates grief.Martina was so heartbroken whenher dog died that her dad broughthome a new puppy as a dolorifuge.

dolorousadj/ SdPlErEs /Lexpressive of sorrow or affliction.In a dolorous voice the reporterdescribed the scene of the disaster.

dolphinn/ SdBlfDn /Gk > L > Prov > F > Eany of various small toothedwhales with the snout more or lesselongated into a beak and the neckvertebrae partially fused.The trained dolphin performed itsfeats with great agility and grace.

domesticadj/ dESmestik /Lrelating to the household or thefamily.Selmas domestic situation changeddrastically after she married a packrat.

domiciliatedv/ TdBmESsilGTCZDd /Lhad established residence : resided.The schoolmaster was domiciliatedin a different village house eachweek.

dominon/ SdBmETnP /L > Fa flat rectangular block of bone,ivory, wood, or plastic the face ofwhich is divided into two equalparts called ends which are blankor bear from one to six dots, usedin a set of 28 to play a game inwhich the ends are matched.As a joke, Grandpa hid a dominobefore asking Billy if hed like toplay.

dorcastryn/ SdOrkEsTtrG /Biblical name + Ecfa church auxiliary organized toplan and execute benevolent work.The dorcastry served freeThanksgiving dinners for thehomeless.

dormancyn/ SdO(r)mEnsG /L > F > E + Ecfthe quality or state of beinginactive.Certain Australian frogs undergolong periods of dormancy duringdrought.

dossiern/ SdOsTyC /Fan accumulation of records, reports,miscellaneous pertinent data, anddocuments bearing on a singlesubject of study or investigation :file.The physician kept a carefuldossier on each of her patients.

Dostoevskianadj/ TdBstESyefskGEn /Russ nameof, relating to, or typical of theRussian novelist Fedor Dostoevskior his writings.The Dostoevskian characterstortured psychic state gripped andtwisted Randys mind as he readpage after page.

douaniern/ dwAnyC /Fa customs officer.At the international airport thedouanier insisted on searching theluggage of everyone proceedingthrough customs.

doubluren/ TdESblU(E)r /L > Fthe lining of a book cover;especially : an ornamental lining.The doublure is an important cluein identifying pirated editions ofearly novels.

doughinessn/ SdPGnDs /Ethe quality or state of being notthoroughly baked.The doughiness of the cakemortified Mrs. Cavendish.

doughtyadj/ SdaUZG /E[has homonym: dowdy] marked byfearless resolution and by stoutnessin contest or struggle : valiant.Daniel was a soldiers soldierrough, tough, and doughty.

dowagern/ SdaUDjE(r) /Fone of the elder women of assuredposition who tend to set the tone ofan assembly, social group, orcommunity.Great Aunt Georgine is thedowager of the Arts Council.

doxologyn/ dBkSsBlEjG /Gka commonly short hymn or formulaexpressing praise to God.On