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2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency
Page 181 of 289
olpe
ombrology
ombrophoben/ SBmbrETfPb /Gk + Gka plant incapable of withstandinglong-continued rain.Excessive rain can cause the leavesof an ombrophobe to decay andfall.
omen
omensn pl/ SPmDnz /Loccurrences believed to portend orshow the character of a futureevent.Losing his lucky coin and spillingthe salt were omens that pointed toa bad day ahead for Nick.
ominously
omniphibious
omphaloskepsis
onegite
oneiromancy
oneness
onomasticadj/ SBnETmastik /Gk[Note: Could be confused withonomastics.] of, relating to, orconsisting of a name or names.Pape’s onomastic lexicon isimmeasurably useful to students ofancient Greece.
ontological
onychophagian/ TBnEkPSfCj(G)E /Gknail-biting.Resa applied a bitter substance toher nails in hopes of curing heronychophagia.
onymous
oolite
oolong
oomyceten/ TPESmITsGt /Gk + Gka fungus of a subclass of parasiticor saprophytic fungi that includeswater molds, white rusts, anddowny mildews.A new fungicide has beendeveloped to combat the oomycetecausing root rot in many crops.
ooporphyrinn/ TPESpO(r)fErDn /Gk + Gka pale brown pigment in eggshells(as of the domestic hen).Julia explained to her youngdaughter that the ooporphyrin inbrown-shelled eggs in no wayalters their quality.
oozen/ SVz /Ea stretch or piece of muddy ground.Without a moment’s hesitation theystarted through a puddle of stickyooze, which quickly became ankle-deep.
opacatev/ PSpCTkCt /Lmake impervious to the rays ofvisible light.Because even a small amount ofdaylight awakens Scott, he usesspecial shades that opacate hiswindows.
opal
opaleye
opaquely
openness
opera
operable
operant
operate
operetta
operose
operosenessn/ TBpESrPsnDs /L + Ecfthe quality of requiring orinvolving effort or labor.The diplomat was not discouragedby the operoseness and slowness ofthe negotiations.
ophidianadj/ PSfidGEn /Gkof, relating to, or resembling that ofsnakes : snakelike.Medusa’s ophidian hairdo is atidbit from mythology that manystudents never forget.
ophiophagous
opinionator
opisometer
opium
opponent
opportunistic
2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency
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oppressv/ ESpres /Lburden spiritually or mentally as ifby pressure : weigh heavily upon.Feelings of failure oppress Candicefrom time to time.
oppressiveadj/ ESpresiv /Loverpowering or depressing to thespirit or senses.The troops battled the oppressiveheat by drinking large amounts ofwater.
opsimathn/ SBpsETmath /Gka person who begins to learn late inlife.The opsimath earned his highschool diploma at 77 and hiscollege degree at 80.
opticiann/ BpStishEn /Gk > L > Fone that grinds spectacle lenses toprescription and dispensesspectacles.The new optician in town isoffering a special price onprescription sunglasses.
opticsn pl/ SBptiks /Gka science that deals with light.In the antiquarian shop, Liza founda 125-year-old book on optics.
optimum
optometer
oracularadj/ OSrakyElE(r) /Lresembling an authoritative or wiseexpression especially in solemnityof delivery.Oz’s oracular pronouncementimpressed Dorothy and her friends.
oracy
orangelo
oration
oratorion/ TOrEStPrGTP /L > Ita musical composition having alibretto based usually on ascriptural subject and consistingtypically of recitatives, arias,choruses, orchestral interludes andaccompaniment, and sometimesspoken dialogue but having noaction, scenery, or costume.Handel’s oratorio Messiah isperformed annually at thecathedral.
oratory
orbicularityn/ TO(r)TbikyESlarEZG /Lthe quality or state of resembling orhaving the form of an orb or globe.The geologist noted the stone’shighly unusual orbicularity.
orbiculate
orchestrate
orchestrelle
ordain
ordered
ordinable
ordinaln/ Sord(F)nEl /La number designating the place (asfirst, second, third) occupied byany item in an ordered sequence.The ordinal for the number one isfirst.
ordinance
orendan/ PSrendE /Wyandotextraordinary invisible power.The medicine man relied on hisorenda to control others.
orexisn/ PSreksDs /Gk > Lthe feeling and striving aspect ofmind as contrasted with theintellectual.Anyone who has watched a babylearn to walk knows that the humanorexis is innately strong.
organicadj/ O(r)Sganik /Gkbeing, containing, or relating tocarbon compounds.Fadela’s science fiction novelstarts with the discovery of organiccompounds on Jupiter.
organization
organophyly
organza
organzine
orguinette
oriental
originated
orinasal
2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency
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orismologyn/ TOrDzSmBlEjG /Gk + Gkthe science of defining technicalterms.At the conference of botanists,problems relating to orismologywere discussed with referenceespecially to terms used in plantpathology.
ornithoidadj/ SO(r)nETJOid /Gkbirdlike.The ornithoid statue in WalcottPark is always covered withpigeons.
ornithology
ornithoscopy
orography
orthic
orthoepist
orthophoria
orthopterologyn/ (T)O(r)TthBptESrBlEjG /Gk >Lthe study of insects withmouthparts fitted for chewing, twopairs of wings or none, and anincomplete metamorphosis.The study of crickets andgrasshoppers, cockroaches,mantises, and stick insects isincluded in orthopterology.
ortolan
ortsteinn/ SOrtTstIn /Ga cemented or compacted and oftenclayey layer in soil that hampersroot penetration and may be causedby repeated plowing to the samedepth.The local soil contains so muchclay that the farmers have had touse special techniques to avoidturning their fields to ortstein.
oryzivorous
oscillate
oscillometern/ TBsESlBmEZE(r) /L + Gkan instrument for measuring thechanges in pulsations in thearteries.Some blood pressure instrumentsare equipped with an oscillometerto measure the pressurefluctuations within the bag.
oscitancyn/ SBsEZEnsG /Ldrowsiness usually demonstratedby yawns.By the third day of testimony onblood types, oscitancy had sweptthe courtroom.
osiern/ SPzhE(r) /L > F > Eany of various willows whosepliable twigs are used for furnitureand basketry.The children wove many smallbaskets with the twigs of the osier.
Osirianadj/ PSsIrGEn /Egyptian nameof or relating to Osiris, ancientEgyptian god of the underworld.Thanks to Plutarch, the Osirianlegend was recorded for posterity.
osmoscopen/ SBzmETskPp /Gkan instrument for detecting andmeasuring odors.The inspector used an osmoscopeto find the gas leak in the basement.
osseousadj/ SBsGEs /L[has near homonym: Aussies]composed of or resembling bone :bony.The oyster is protected by itsosseous shell.
ossificatoryadj/ ESsifDkETtPrG /Lof or involving the process of boneformation.A poor diet can easily interferewith the ossificatory process.
ossify
osteogenesis
osteomyelitis
osteopathn/ SBstGETpath /Gka practitioner of a system ofmedical practice based on thetheory that diseases are due chieflyto a loss of structural integrity inthe tissues.If Dr. Fletcher can’t cure Reba’sheadaches, she plans to consult anosteopath.
osteopathy
osteophyten/ SBstGETfIt /Gka small pathological bonyoutgrowth.George’s back pain was caused byan osteophyte on one of hisvertebrae.
2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency
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osteoplasty
osteotomy
ostiumn/ SBstGEm /Lone of the lateral slits in the heartof an arthropod by which the bloodenters from the pericardium.The ostium allows blood to reenterthe insect’s heart from the insect’sone blood vessel, which runsdorsally the length of its body.
otherworldly
otioseadj/ SPshGTPs /Lbeing at leisure or at ease : idle,unemployed.The otiose travelers slept untilnearly noon.
otioseness
otiosityn/ TPshGSBsEZG /L > Fthe quality or state of lacking use,effect, or function.Mr. Simmons advised thatcomplaining about the poweroutage would be an exercise inotiosity, because nothing could bedone about it.
otorhinolaryngologyn/ TPZETrInPTlarDnSgBlEjG /Gka branch of medicine that dealswith the ear, nose, and throat andtheir diseases and disorders.The Cleveland Clinic’s departmentof otorhinolaryngology examined arock group and found that all itsmembers suffered from laryngitis.
otoscopen/ SPZETskPp /Gk + Gkan instrument fitted with lightingand magnifying lens systems andused to facilitate visual inspectionof the auditory canal and ear drum.Dr. Jamison peered through theotoscope into Kayla’s ear.
ouncen/ SaUn(t)s /L > F > Ea unit of weight equal to 1/16avoirdupois pound.To understand why gold is sold bythe ounce and silver is sold by thepound, check the prices.
oustv/ SaUst /L > F > AFput out of possession : eject,dispossess from, or deprive of aninheritance.The rebels met in secret and votedto oust the king by force ifnecessary.
outbreak
outdoorsy
outmoded
outrance
outsert
outvote
ouvertadj/ VSve(E)r /Fhaving an open stance ormovement in ballet.The prima ballerina demonstratedan ouvert plié to the class.
ovality
ovary
ovenware
overcapitalize
overindulgent
oversight
overwhelmv/ TPvE(r)S(h)welm /Eoverthrow and bury beneath :engulf completely.Mudslides can overwhelm entirecommunities in a matter of minutes.
overwroughtadj/ TPvE(r)SrOt /Esuffering from or revealing nervousstrain : agitated.Randy’s parents are overwroughtby his desire to get a tattoo.
ovibosn/ SPvETbBs /La heavyset shaggy-coated wild oxnow confined to Greenland and thebarren northern lands of NorthAmerica—called also “musk ox.”The horns of the ovibos growsideways from the skull, curvingdownward at the sides of the headand then upwards at the ends.
ovineadj/ SPTvIn /Lof, being, or relating to sheep.Selena wrote a paper on infectiousovine diseases for the veterinaryjournal.
ovularian
owlet
oxblood
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oxfordn/ SBksfE(r)d /E geog namea low-cut usually laced shoecoming to the instep.The salesclerk suggested a saddleoxford as a comfortable everydayshoe.
oxidizationn/ TBksEdDSzCshEn /Gk > Fthe act or process of chemicallyadding oxygen to.Oxidization is part of the process ofreleasing energy during themetabolism of carbohydrates.
ozonen/ SPTzPn /Gk > Gan allotropic triatomic form ofoxygen that is normally a faintlyblue irritating gas with acharacteristic pungent odor.While browsing through themagazine, Ken learned that ozoneis formed in the atmosphere by aprocess involving diatomic oxygenand solar radiation.
ozostomia
pacemaker
pachisi
pachymetern/ pESkimEZE(r) /Gkan instrument for measuringthickness (as of paper).The paper mill’s superintendent ofquality control finally ordered anelectronic pachymeter.
pachysandra
pacifism
packet
pact
paddle
padlock
padren/ SpB(T)drC /L > Sp or It or Pga military chaplain.Father Mulcahey, the basechaplain on the television seriesM*A*S*H, was often referred to as“the padre.”paduasoyn/ SpajEwETsOi /It geog name + Fa rich heavy corded silk fabric forclothing and upholstery.The Venetian prince wore a tunic ofembroidered paduasoy.
paganism
paginate
pahoehoen/ pEShPGThPG /Hawaiiancooled hard lava marked by asmooth often billowy shiny surface.The geologist showed the classsamples of different types of lava,including pahoehoe.
paillard
pair
palatalizev/ SpalEZFlTIz /L + Ecfpronounce with the front of thetongue near or touching the hardroof of the mouth.English speakers palatalize the firstn in the word onion.
paleface
paleographyn/ TpClGSBgrEfG /Gkthe study of ancient modes ofwriting including inscriptions.The museum turned over themysterious stone tablets to aspecialist in paleography.
Paleozoicadj/ TpClGESzPik /Gkof or relating to a division ofgeological history from thebeginning of the Cambrian to theclose of the Permian periods.Seed-bearing plants andamphibians first appeared in thePaleozoic era.
palesn pl/ SpClz /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word. Inaddition, word has homonym:pails.] slats fastened to a rail at topand bottom for fencing : pickets.They now walked on togetherquietly till within view of thevicarage pales.
palette
palfreyn/ SpOlfrG /(Gk + Gaulish > L) > F > Ea saddle horse other than a war-horse having a light, easy gait.With his war-horse lame, the knighthad no other choice but to ride apalfrey.
palingenesisn/ TpalDnSjenEsDs /Gkrenewal by or as if by rebirth, asthe doctrine of reincarnation.The discussion of palingenesisstarted with the illustration of anoak tree producing acorns, which,in turn, produce oak trees.
palisade
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palisadon/ TpalESsCdP /L > OProv > Spa fence of stakes used especially fordefense.Irwin’s group walked along thefort’s entire palisado while the tourguide talked endlessly.
palladianadj/ pESlCdGEn /Gk > Lof or relating to wisdom orlearning.Ike tries to strike a balancebetween palladian pursuits andrecreational activities.
palliasse
palliatory
pallidadj/ SpalDd /Llacking in brightness or intensity :pale—used of a color or a coloredobject.Today’s pallid sky contrastssharply with yesterday’s brilliantblue one.
pally
palmery
palmetto
palmistry
palpably
palpusn/ SpalTpEs /La segmented process attached to amouthpart of an arthropod, usuallyhaving a tasting or feeling function.Jack found a species ofgrasshopper with an unusuallylarge palpus.
palter
paludicolousadj/ TpalyESdikElEs /Lliving or thriving in a marshyenvironment.The campers were not used to thenightly cacophony of the nearbypaludicolous frogs.
palynologicaladj/ TpalEnESlBjDkEl /Gkconcerned with pollen or pollengrains.Dr. Wickes hopes that herpalynological research will someday help many who suffer fromallergies.
pampasn pl/ SpampEz /Quechua&Aymara > Spextensive generally grass-coveredplains of temperate South Americaeast of the Andes.Morrie dreams of being a gauchoon the Argentine pampas.
pamper
pamperon/ pamSperP /AmerSpa strong cold wind from the west orsouthwest that sweeps over thepampas of South America from theAndes.The cattle were huddled togetherwith their backs turned into thepampero.
pamphletize
panachagen/ TpanESshBzh /Fa variation of the list system thatallows a voter to redistribute namesfrom several party lists into a listhaving names in an order of his orher own choice.Harry proposed panachage as analternative to the old procedure.
panachedadj/ pESnasht /Fvariegated with stripes of color.Donna planted a bed of red andwhite panached tulips.
panaman/ SpanETmB /Tupi > Central American geognamea fine lightweight hat of natural-colored straw hand-plaited ofnarrow strips from the youngleaves of the jipijapa.While on a tropical vacation, Mr.Pease bought a white, hand-wovenpanama to shade his head.
panchrestonn/ panSkrestEn /Gka broadly inclusive and oftenoversimplified thesis that isintended to cover all possiblevariations within an area ofconcern.Michael’s doctoral advisor gentlyexplained that his thesis was apanchreston and needed to be morefocused.
panchromatic
pancosmism
pancreas
pandowdyn/ panSdaUdG /unknowna deep-dish apple dessert that isspiced; sweetened with sugar,molasses, or maple syrup; andcovered with a rich biscuit crustand baked.Mother serves pandowdy, ourfavorite dessert, whenever visitorsstay for dinner.
panegyrical
panegyrist
panforte
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Panglossianadj/ panSglBsGEn /(Gk + Gk) > F literary namemarked by the view that “all is forthe best in this best of possibleworlds.”The coach’s Panglossian attitudelifted his team’s sagging spirits.
pangolinn/ SpaNgElDn /Malayany of a family of Asian andAfrican toothless mammals havingthe body covered with largeoverlapping horny scales andfeeding chiefly on ants.Because of its overlapping scales,the pangolin is sometimes called awalking artichoke.
panhandle
panicky
panjandrum
panophobian/ TpanESfPbGE /L + Gka condition of vague nonspecificanxiety : generalized fear.For several days after theearthquake, Rachel experienced amild panophobia.
panoplied
panoplyn/ SpanEplG /Gka magnificent or impressive array.The panoply of wildflowers in themeadow took away Carla’s breath.
panorama
Pansiln/ Span(t)sDl /Skt > Pali > Singhalese[Note: Could be confused withpencil.] the rite in HinayanaBuddhism of undertakingceremonially a set of five preceptsof morality.Pansil is taken individually beforea Buddhist shrine or collectively atthe beginning of a Buddhistmeeting of any kind.
pansitn/ SpBn(t)sDt /Taga Chinese noodle dish of thePhilippines.As more and more ethnicrestaurants open, Americans arebecoming familiar with dishes suchas pansit.
pantaloonery
pantheonn/ Span(t)thGTBn /Gka temple dedicated to all the gods.The pantheon in Rome has survivedremarkably intact since ancienttimes.
pantometern/ panStBmEZE(r) /Gk > Fa device for measuring all angles.The pantometer can be used tomeasure all sorts of angles,lengths, and heights.
panzer
panzootic
papagallo
papal
paparchical
papaverine
papered
papilloten/ SpapETlPt /L > Fa greased paper wrapper in whichfood is cooked and served.Harvey carefully peeled the coloredpapillote from his chocolatecupcake.
papyraceous
parabolan/ pESrabElE /Gk + Gka plane curve generated in such amanner that it is equal to a conicsection formed by the intersectionof a cone with a plane parallel to anelement of the cone.The high fly ball described aparabola in the air.
parachronism
paradigms
paradoxical
paragogen/ SparETgPjG /Gkthe addition of a sound or syllableto the end of a word.By paragoge, the word golden wasformed from the word gold.
paragon
paralogismn/ pESralETjizEm /Gka reasoning contrary to logical rulesor formulas.The debate team was defeated onceits paralogism was exposed.
paralyze
paranee
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parapetlessadj/ SparETpDtlDs /L > It + Ecfnot having a wall, rampart orelevation designed to protectsoldiers.The castle was parapetless, the twotowers having been destroyed bycannon fire a century earlier.
paraphrase
paraphrasia
parapraxian/ TparESpraksGE /Gka faulty act (as a slip of the tongueor of memory) : blunder, lapse.One parapraxia after anothercaused Mr. Aiken to wonder if hewas in the early stages of senility.
parapsychologyn/ TparEsISkBlEjG /Gka science concerned with theinvestigation especially byexperimental means of events thatare considered to be evidence ofmental telepathy, clairvoyance, andpsychokinesis.Those claiming to be experts inparapsychology find it easy to gainattention in the tabloid press.
paraquatn/ SparETkwBt /Gk + Lan herbicide that is used especiallyas a weed killer.The DEA officials sprayedparaquat on the marijuana fields.
parasoled
paratacticadj/ TparEStaktik /Gkof, relating to, or exhibitingcoordinate ranging of clauses,phrases, or words one after anotherwithout coordinating connectives.Herodotus was cited as an exampleof an author who used a paratacticstyle.
parazonium
parchment
pardon
paregoric
parentagen/ Spa(a)rEntij /L > F + Ecfdescent from ancestors : lineage.The earl asked his valet, “Can youtell me anything of the parentage ofthe lady in this photo?”parental
parenthesis
parenthetic
pargetryn/ SpBrjEtrG /Eornamental plaster or stucco reliefwork applied to a flat surface.The corridors of the mansion wereornamented with a variety ofpargetry.
pariahism
parishn/ Sparish /Gk > L > F > E[has near homonym: perish] theecclesiastical unit of areacommitted to one pastor;collectively : the residents of sucharea or the members of one church.Father Johnson bought a car so hecould visit everyone in his parish.
parka
parliamentaryadj/ TpBrlESmentErG /F > Eof, relating to, or having the natureof a supreme legislative body of ausually major political unit.Members of the Senate were askednot to delay parliamentary businesswith lengthy speeches.
parlous
parmesann/ SpBrmDTzBn /It geog namea very hard dry cheese with a sharpflavor that is cured for several yearsand used grated to season otherfoods (as spaghetti and sauces).Clem sprinkled a mound ofparmesan atop his vermicelli.
paroleen/ pETrPSlG /Gk > Lone granted a conditional andrevocable release from prison.Vanessa hoped that giving theparolee a job would help to keephim from becoming a repeatoffender.
paronomasian/ TparEnPSmCzh(G)E /Gk > La play upon words in which thesame word is used in differentsenses or words similar in soundare set in opposition : pun.Harold is usually quite clever withhis puns, but this time hisparonomasia was purely silly.
paronymous
parquetry
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parriciden/ SparETsId /L[has near homonym: parasite] onethat murders his or her father,mother, or a close relative.The judge ordered a psychiatricevaluation of the accusedparricide.
parriedv/ SparGd /L > Prov > Fwarded off a weapon or blow bymeans of a defensive action.Neither fencer scored as theyparried for several minutes.
parrot
parrotlet
parsimonious
parsley
partage
partan
partial
partiality
participation
participle
particularadj/ pE(r)StikyElEr /Ldistinctive among others of thesame kind : out of the ordinary :worthy of notice.Was there a particular reason thatyou overslept today?parure
parvanimity
parvitude
paseon/ pBSsCP /Spa leisurely stroll : promenade.Florrie and Georgia took anafternoon paseo down theboulevard.
paskhan/ SpBsKE /Gk > Russa molded Russian dessert made ofcheese, cream, raisins, candiedfruit, and nuts and traditionallyserved at Easter.Basking in the admiration of herfamily, Tatiana proudly brought thepaskha to the table.
passably
passade
passgang
passim
passimeter
passionatelyadv/ Spash(E)nDtlG /L + Ecfwith great feeling : enthusiastically.“Now let me see,” Mrs. Whatsitpondered. “I’m passionately fondof Russian caviar.”pasteladj/ paSstel /L > It > Fpale and light in color : lacking inbrilliance and intensity.Mrs. Cooper selected bold ratherthan pastel colors for her newbaby’s bedroom decor.
pastime
pastor
pastoral
pastoralism
patas
patchy
patentlyadv/ SpatFntlG /Lclearly, obviously, plainly.The marketing company was suedbecause some parts of itsinfomercial were patently untrue.
paterfamiliasn/ TpaZE(r)fESmilGEs /Lthe male head of a household.Kevin declared himselfpaterfamilias for the day and tookhis younger siblings to the baseballgame.
patheticadj/ pEStheZik /Gk > Levoking tenderness, pity, sympathy,or sorrow : affecting, pitiable.The pathetic man, whose clotheswere worn and tattered, had oncebeen a prominent communityleader.
pathologyn/ pESthBlEjG /Gkthe study of diseases; their essentialnature, causes, and development;and the structural and functionalchanges produced by them.Carla, a second-year medicalstudent, was considering choosingpathology as her specialty.
pathwaysn pl/ SpathTwCz /E + Etracks specially constructed for aparticular use (as walking).Another open green door revealedbushes and pathways between bedscontaining winter vegetables.
patina
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pation/ SpaZGTP /L > OProv? > Spa recreation area adjoining adwelling, often paved, and adaptedespecially to outdoor dining.Rachel’s birthday party was heldon the sunny patio.
patioed
patisserie
patriliny
patronize
patroonsn pl/ pEStrVnz /L > Fthe proprietors of the tracts of landgranted to members of the DutchWest India Company.Most of present-day New York andNew Jersey was once owned bypatroons.
pattenn/ SpatFn /L > F > E[has homonym: paten] a clog,sandal, or overshoe often with awooden sole or metal device toelevate the foot and increase thewearer’s height or aid in walking inmud.Jack kicked aside the muddiedpatten that Marsha had left on theporch.
pattern
paulopost
paunch
paunchy
pauper
pauperizev/ SpOpESrIz /L + Ecfreduce to abject poverty.Afraid that another market dipwould pauperize him, Soren soldhis shares in dot-com companies.
pawned
payable
payolan/ pCSPlE /L > F > E + E?an undercover or indirect paymentfor a commercial favor.The disc jockey was fired when itbecame known that he receivedpayola from a record company.
payroll
peabodyn/ SpGTbBdG /E namea fast ballroom dance in openposition.The Lowensteins surprisedeveryone at the Opera Ball whenthey danced the peabody.
peacetime
peacock
peameal
pearl
pebbled
peccancyn/ SpekEnsG /Lthe quality or state of being guiltyof a moral offense.The stockholders decided tooverlook the CEO’s peccancy andreelected him to another term.
peccavin/ peSkB(T)vG /La humble acknowledgment of sin orerror : confession.The leader stood in front of hisfollowers and uttered a tearfulpeccavi, hoping that they wouldforgive and forget.
pecksniffianadj/ pekSsnifGEn /fictional E name + Ecfunctuously hypocritical : selfishand corrupt behind a display ofseeming benevolence.The pecksniffian humbug in chargeof the charity event took on the jobmerely as a public relations stunt.
pectoraladj/ Spekt(E)rEl /Lof, related to, situated or occurringin or on, or worn on the chest.Turning a so-called “painted”turtle over reveals beautiful orangeand green patterns on its pectoralplates.
peculiaritiesn pl/ pDTkyVlSyarEZGz /Lqualities or states belongingexclusively or especially to aperson or group.Among her less endearingpeculiarities is a penchant foralways arriving late.
peculiarlyadv/ pDSkyVlyE(r)lG /L > Eparticularly, unusually.Lucille was peculiarly grumpyduring lunch.
pedagogy
peddle
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pedestaln/ SpedDstFl /It > Fthe base of an upright structure (asa statue, vase, or lamp).Because tourists did so muchdamage to the statue in the townsquare, it was moved to a muchhigher pedestal.
pediculosisn/ pDTdikyESlPsDs /Linfestation with lice.The school nurse explained thatabout five percent of elementaryschool children are affected withpediculosis.
pedigerousadj/ pDSdijErEs /Lhaving feet : footed.The insect had three pedigeroussegments.
pedigreed
pediment
pedodontics
peeragen/ Spirij /L > F > Ethe rank or dignity of nobility.The war hero’s name wassubmitted to the king for a peerage.
peevishadj/ SpGvish /Emarked by ill temper.The nurse showed great patienceand forbearance toward herpeevish patient.
pegasusn/ SpegEsEs /Gk namea fabulous winged horse; especially: the winged steed thought of asbearing a poet in flights of fancy.Monique drew a picture of MotherGoose riding on a pegasus insteadof a goose.
peignoirn/ pCnSwB(r) /L > Fa woman’s loose negligee ordressing gown.Betty’s black peignoir fluttered asshe walked past the air conditioner.
Pekingologyn/ TpG(T)kiNSBlEjG /Chinese geog namethe study of the policies andpractices of Communist China.Professor Chen was an expert inPekingology.
peleanadj/ pDSlGEn /Martinique geog nameof, relating to, or resemblingvolcanic eruptions characterized byviolent expulsion of clouds orblasts of incandescent volcanic ash.The pelean eruption of Mount St.Helens filled the Toutle River withmany tons of ash.
pelelith
pelerine
pellet
pellucidityn/ TpelyESsidEZG /Lthe quality or state of permittingone to see through to a remarkabledegree.The pellucidity of the water in thebay attracted many scuba divers.
pellucidly
pelmatogramn/ pelSmaZETgram /Gk + Gkan impression of the sole of thefoot.Joan picked up the bronzedpelmatogram and reminisced aboutthe time when her son was a baby.
pelorus
pelota
pelotonn/ SpelETtBn /Fa European ornamental glass.There was a large display ofpeloton in the window of theantique shop.
penalize
pendentive
pendicle
pendingadj/ SpendiN /L + Ecfnot yet decided : in continuance.Most of the cases pending beforethe honor council deal withcheating.
pendulosity
penitentn/ SpenEZEnt /La person regretful of sin : onesorrowful because of histransgressions.St. Francis of Assisi spent severalyears as a penitent at the beginningof his conversion.
penny
penologist
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penologyn/ pGSnBlEjG /Gk + Gka branch of criminology dealingwith prison management and thetreatment of offenders especiallywith regard to their rehabilitation.In his course in penology, Jakestudied the procedures forprobation and parole.
pensionnat
pentaclen/ SpentDkEl /L > Ita five-pointed star producible byone continuous line.The man who came to the doorwore a necklace with a bronzepentacle on it.
pentagonal
pentastichn/ SpentETstik /Gk + Gka unit, stanza, or poem consistingof five lines.Eric recited a limerick as anexample of a pentastich.
Pentateuchaladj/ TpentEStVkEl /Gkof or relating to the first five booksof the Old Testament.The synagogue’s guest lecturer wasa world-famous Pentateuchalscholar.
penthousen/ SpentThaUs /L > Ea dwelling built on a roof.Lyla lives in the penthouse of a chicnew apartment building.
penultimateadj/ pDSnEltEmDt /Lnext to the last.In the word ammunition, the stressfalls on the penultimate syllable.
peonage
peppermint
pepperyadj/ Spep(E)rG /Ehot, pungent, piquant.The peppery smell coming from thewok almost made Josh choke whenhe entered the kitchen.
peradventuren/ TpErEdSvenchE(r) /L > F > Ean opinion based on guesswork :surmise.Thinking that Phil’s favorite coloris red just because he purchased ared car is a peradventure.
percale
percaline
perceivedv/ pE(r)SsGvd /L > F > Ebecame aware of through thesenses.Through the mist, Steve perceivedthe shape of a house.
perceptiblyadv/ pE(r)SseptEblG /Lin a manner so as to be perceived.When Laura entered thesupermarket, the air wasperceptibly cooler.
perch
percheron
perciatellin/ TperchESte(l)lG /Itlong tubular pasta slightly thickerthan spaghetti.The specialty at Antonio’srestaurant was perciatelli withmeatballs.
percolator
perditionn/ pE(r)SdishEn /Lthe place of eternal punishment inthe future state.Overly remorseful for his minorwrongdoing, Bryce felt sure that aplace in perdition was reserved forhim.
perdure
peregrinationn/ TperEgrDSnCshEn /Lan excursion especially on foot orto a foreign country : journey.Julie’s peregrination to Italyopened her eyes to the splendors ofRenaissance art.
peremptorily
perennially
perfectibilism
perfidiouslyadv/ pE(r)SfidGEslG /Lin a dishonest or disloyal manner.Paul has a reputation for behavingperfidiously and should not begiven confidential information.
perfunctoryadj/ pE(r)SfEN(k)t(E)rG /Lcharacterized by routine orsuperficiality : cursory.The bureaucrat gave the teenager aperfunctory smile and continued toignore her.
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pergola
pericardiumn/ TperESkBrdGEm /Gk > Lthe conical sac of serous membranethat encloses the heart.The bullet wound narrowly missedpiercing Officer Callahan’spericardium.
pericope
perigloea
periglottis
perilousadj/ SperElEs /L > F > Efull of, attended with, or involvingdanger.Karen covered her eyes frequentlyduring the movie, unable to watchher favorite actor face one perilouspitfall after another.
periodic
periodontaladj/ TperGPSdBntFl /Gkof or affecting the tissues or regionssurrounding a tooth.The closeup photographs ofadvanced periodontal disease madeKara want to floss her teeth.
periostealadj/ TperGSBstGEl /Gksituated around bone or producedexternal to existing bone.The bone scan revealed periostealinflammations around the tibia inboth legs.
periphytonn/ pESrifETtBn /Gkorganisms that live attached tounderwater surfaces.Periphyton, such as certain algae,live on submerged plant stems andleaves.
peripteraladj/ pESript(E)rEl /Gkhaving a row of columns on allsides.The Parthenon in Athens is aperipteral temple, and most of itscolumns are still standing.
periscope
perishedadj/ Sperisht /L > F > E + Ecfdeadened or weakened byexposure.The perished cotton crop was aresult of the severe hail stormduring the night.
peristyle
peritonitisn/ TperEtESnIZDs /Gkinflammation of the membrane thatlines the cavity of the abdomen of amammal.The cause of Beth’s abdominalpain was bacterial peritonitis.
peritusn/ pESrGZEs /Lan expert who acts as an adviser ata Vatican council.When the council reached animpasse, the peritus was calledupon for advice.
periwign/ SperDTwig /Fone of several wigs popularly wornfrom the 17th century to the early19th century.The museum exhibited an imposingportrait of King Louis XIV wearingan elaborate periwig.
permafrost
permanent
permeabilityn/ TpErmGESbilEZG /L + Ecffthe quality or state of beingpassable, penetrable, or pervious—used especially of a substance thatallows the passage of fluids.The permeability of Larry’s tent tothe rain resulted in a wet eveningfor the campers.
permissible
permitn/ SpErTmit /Sp > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] a largeup to three feet long blue and silverpompano found especially off theWest Indies and Florida.The game warden wouldn’t allowVince to catch a permit without afishing license.
permitted
perpendv/ pE(r)Spend /Lweigh carefully in the mind.He retired to the inn to write notesand perpend his situation.
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perpendicularlyadv/ TpErpEnSdikyElErlG /Lexactly vertical or upright.Because he was so frightened, Paulcould not sit perpendicularly uponthe horse.
perpension
perpetratorn/ SpErpETtrCZE(r) /Lone that commits an offense orcrime.The perpetrator was apprehendedafter a high-speed car chase bypolice.
perpetuity
perplex
perplexed
persistent
personagen/ SpErs(F)nij /L > F > Ean eminent man or woman;especially : one distinguished forpresence and personal power.Winston Churchill, a personagemost widely known for hisleadership during and after WorldWar II, was also an accomplishedartist.
personalia
personifyv/ pE(r)SsBnETfI /Etruscan > L > Fbe the embodiment of.Zoltan strove to personify theperfect Boy Scout.
perspectiven/ pE(r)Sspektiv /Lthe appearance to the eye of objectsin respect to their relative distanceand positions.Perspective made the long rows ofmachines seem almost to meet.
perspicacity
perspiryadj/ pE(r)SspIrG /L > F + Ecfsweaty.In the muggy weather Kendallwears lightweight clothing so asnot to become perspiry.
perstringev/ pE(r)Sstrinj /Lfind fault with : censure, criticize.“Why must you perstringeeverything I do?” cried Emma.
persuasion
persuasivelyadv/ pE(r)SswCsDvlG /L + Ecffin a manner influencing the mindby arguments or reasons.The puppy looked longingly at theboy’s cookie and wagged its tailpersuasively.
pertaining
perturbv/ pErStErb /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] cause (aplanet or other celestial body) todeviate from a theoretically regularorbital motion usually as a result ofextraordinary gravitational pull.The black hole’s great densitycaused it to perturb a nearby star.
pertussisn/ pE(r)StEsDs /Lwhooping cough.In the United States, babies areroutinely immunized againstpertussis.
pesaden/ pESsCd /L > It > Fa dressage maneuver in which ahorse is made to raise hisforequarters while keeping his hindfeet on the ground withoutadvancing.The pesade is the first lesson taughta horse in order to bring him tocurvets.
pessimism
pessimisticadj/ TpesESmistik /L > Fmarked by disbelief, distrust, or alack of confidence, hope, or joy.The senator was pessimistic aboutthe passage of any tax-cutting billsthis year.
pestiferous
petard
petechialadj/ pDStGkGEl /L > Itmarked by minute reddish orpurplish spots containing blood thatappear in skin or mucousmembranes especially in someinfectious diseases.Dr. Owens told Boris to let himknow if the petechial rash on hishand did not disappear in a coupleof days.
petiteadj/ pEStGt /Fsmall and trim of figure : little.For such a petite woman, Alanahas a surprisingly resonant voice.
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petitionn/ pDStishEn /Lthe act or action of formally askingor humbly requesting.The students, through their right ofpetition, have helped bring aboutchanges in the school cafeteria’smenu.
petitionee
petrel
petronellan/ TpetrESnelE /name?a Scottish country dance of the 19thcentury.Fiona and Brian learned thepetronella on the Isle of Skye.
petticoat
pettifogv/ SpeZGTfBg /G namequibble over insignificant details.You can expect Aunt Dana andAunt Elizabeth to pettifog overevery family story they canremember.
pettish
pewter
pfeffernussn/ SfefE(r)TnVs /Ga small hard highly spiced cookiemade traditionally for theChristmas holidays.The aroma of pfeffernuss in theoven brought back memories ofChristmas to the old man.
phaeochrousadj/ fGSBkrEs /Gkdusky.A phaeochrous cloud hovered overthe city for several hours followingthe earthquake.
phalangealadj/ fESlanjGEl /Gk > Lof or relating to the digital bones ofthe hand or foot of a vertebrate.Gert’s phalangeal joints wereswollen with rheumatism.
phalarope
phantasmagoria
phantom
pharmaceuticalsn pl/ fBrmESsUZDkElz /Gk > Lmedicinal drugs.Congress reviewed the lawsgoverning the importation ofexperimental pharmaceuticals.
pharmaceuticsn pl/ TfBrmESsVZiks /Gkthe science of preparing, using, ordispensing medicines.A degree in pharmaceutics is one ofthe requirements for a job in thedrug research laboratory.
pharmacist
pharmacologyn/ TfBrmESkBlEjG /Gk > Lthe study of drugs, theircomposition, effects, and use inmedicine.Having done well in both biologyand chemistry courses, Phyllisdecided to pursue a degree inpharmacology.
pharmacy
pharyngeal
pharyngology
phasic
phatic
phenol
phenomenally
philamotadj/ SfilETmBt /Fof the color of a dead leaf orbrownish orange.When Ken called Vicky’s coat alovely shade of philamot, she hadno idea his remark was an insult.
philanderer
philanthropist
philanthropyn/ fDSlan(t)thrEpG /Gkgoodwill expressed through activeefforts to promote human welfare :humanitarianism.A few individuals with a well-developed sense of philanthropycan do wonders for society.
Philomeln/ SfilETmel /Gk namenightingale.The Philomel usually sings at night.
philosophizev/ fDSlBsETfIz /Gk + Ecfseek a rational basis for fact andexperience : reflect, theorize.Jermain’s chemistry teacherencouraged him to philosophizeabout the nature of the elements.
phobia
phobicadj/ SfPbik /Gkof, relating to, characterized by, orarising from an exaggerated andoften disabling fear usuallyinexplicable to the subject.A phobic person’s fear serves toprotect the ego from anxiety arisingfrom unexpressed aggressiveimpulses.
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phonation
phoneme
phoneticadj/ fPSneZik /Gk > Lof or relating to spoken language orspeech sounds.Carmen asked me to write thephonetic spellings next to thedifficult words.
phonics
phosgene
phosphorescentadj/ TfBsfESresFnt /Gk + Lcfexhibiting or characterized byluminescence.The phosphorescent glow ofdecaying wood lit up the forest.
phosphoric
phosphorusn/ SfBsfErEs /Gk > La nonmetallic element of thenitrogen family that occurs widelyin combined form especially asinorganic phosphates in minerals,soils, natural waters, bones, andteeth and as organic phosphates inall living cells.Photographers used to burnpowdered phosphorus to create aflash.
phosvitin
photicadj/ SfPZik /Gk + Ecfof, pertaining to, or caused by light.When a clam is placed on its side,it will tightly close its valve inresponse to both tactile and photicreceptors.
photobiologyn/ TfPZPTbISBlEjG /Gk > ISVa branch of biology that deals withthe effects on living beings of lightand other forms of radiant energy.Part of Prof. Sanford’s grant wasto study the photobiology ofaquatic plants.
photochromicadj/ TfPZESkrPmik /Gkcapable of changing color onexposure to radiant energy (aslight).Gail doesn’t need sunglassesanymore because her newprescription lenses arephotochromic.
photocopy
photoelectricadj/ TfPZPTDSlektrik /Gk > ISVrelating to or utilizing any ofvarious electrical effects due to theinteraction of light and otherradiation with matter.Prof. Minchin showed byexperiment the photoelectriccurrent set up by a beam of lightfalling on a sheet immersed in asolution of acid carbonate ofcalcium.
photofloodn/ SfPZPTflEd /Gk + Ean electric lamp using excessvoltage to give intense sustainedillumination for takingphotographs.The photoflood blew the fuse in theold house.
photoingv/ SfPZPiN /Gk + Ecfobtaining an image with a camera.While she was photoing, Darcybound her hair back with abarrette.
photometeorn/ SfPZ(T)PTmGZGE(r) /Gk > ISVa temporary luminous phenomenonin the sky.Many UFO sightings can beexplained as some sort of naturallyoccurring photometeor.
photometern/ fPStBmEZE(r) /Gk + Gkan instrument for measuringluminous intensity by comparisonof two unequal lights from differentsources.Astronomer Edward CharlesPickering invented a photometer tomeasure the brightness of stars.
photomicroscopen/ TfPZPSmIkrPTskPp /Gka combined microscope, camera,and suitable light source.Florio set up a photomicroscope totake pictures of the protozoa hefound in the pond.
photomontage
photonn/ SfPTtBn /Gka massless elementary particle withone quantum unit of spin that is thecarrier of radiant energy (as light orX rays).The concept of the photonoriginated in Einstein’sexplanation of the photoelectriceffect.
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photovoltaicadj/ TfPZPvBlStCik /(Gk + It name + E) > ISVof, utilizing, or relating to thegeneration of an electromotiveforce when radiant energy falls onthe boundary between certaindissimilar substances in closecontact.A photovoltaic effect can beproduced with cuprous oxide andcopper or with an electrode and anelectrolyte.
phrase
phreaticadj/ frGSaZik /Gkof or relating to a well—used ofunderground waters reachable bydrilling.Kathryn’s data indicate that thereis a large phreatic source of watersix miles northeast of the city.
phrenicadj/ Sfrenik /Gkof or relating to the mind.Julia was more concerned with herson’s phrenic development thanwith his physical skills.
phrenicectomy
phrontisteryn/ SfrBntETsterG /Gka place for thinking or study.On warm spring afternoons thebackyard gazebo wasGrandfather’s favoritephrontistery.
Phrygianadj/ SfrijGEn /Gk geog nameof, relating to, or characteristic ofthe ancient country of Phrygia.In Rome the Phrygian cap wasworn by emancipated slaves as asymbol of their freedom.
phugoidadj/ SfyVTgOid /Gkof, relating to, or representingvariations in the longitudinalmotion or course of the center ofmass of an airplane in flight.Glider designers study phugoidtheory to develop stable aircraft.
phylic
phyllomancy
phyllotaxy
phylogenyn/ fISlBjEnG /Gkthe history or course of thedevelopment of an immaterialthing.It would be difficult for phylogenyto explain the emergence of somany different world philosophies.
phylumn/ SfIlEm /Gk > Lone of the usually primarydivisions of the animal kingdom.Insects belong to the phylumArthropoda.
physical
physiology
phytopathogenn/ TfIZ(T)PSpathEjDn /Gk + Gk + Gkan organism parasitic on a planthost.Biochemists have developedantibiotic compounds to eradicatethe bacterial phytopathogen.
phytoplanktonn/ TfIZESplaNktEn /Gkthe floating plant life of a body ofwater consisting largely of minuteplants (as diatoms and blue-greenalgae).Phytoplankton are at the bottom ofthe ocean’s food chain, whichmeans that they are vital to allmarine animals.
piaffe
piano
picador
pickerel
Pickwickianadj/ pikSwikGEn /E name + Ecfmarked by simplicity andgenerosity of character or by anappearance and manner suggestingthese qualities.Matilda wishes that her principalwere more like the Pickwickianheadmaster of Tom’s school.
picnic
picotee
picry
pictograph
picudon/ pDSkV(T)dP /AmerSpa boll weevil.After the picudo ravaged cottoncrops in 1916, many cotton farmersdiversified and raised peanutcrops.
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piebaldadj/ SpITbOld /L > F > E + Espotted or blotched with black andwhite.Young blue herons acquiring adultplumage have a piebaldappearance.
piedadj/ SpId /L > F > Evariegated; also : wearing or havinga parti-colored coat.Jenna’s favorite story is about thepied piper who took revenge whenthe townspeople failed to pay himfor ridding their town of rats.
piedmontadj/ SpGdTmBnt /It geog namelying or formed at the base ofmountains.Alma thinks that North Carolina’spiedmont region is heaven onEarth.
pierced
Pierianadj/ pISirGEn /Gk geog nameof or relating to learning or poetry.Once a month the local Pieriansociety sponsors a poetry reading.
pierrotn/ SpGETrP /F namea standard comic character of oldFrench pantomime usually with awhitened face and loose whiteclothes.Hanna studied the painting of thepierrot to get an idea for herpantomime costume.
piezometer
piffling
pigeonhole
pigeonwing
pigment
pigmentation
pigpen
pigsty
pilcrow
pileumn/ SpIlGEm /Lthe top of the head of a bird fromthe bill to the nape.The woodpecker’s pileum was abrilliant red crest and looked to betwo inches high.
pilfer
pilfery
pilgrim
pillagev/ Spilij /L > F > Estrip of valuables : loot.After the battle, opportunists camefrom outside the city to pillage itsneighborhoods.
pilosity
pilotn/ SpIlEt /Gk > It > Fone who flies or is qualified to flyan airplane.Hugh is the pilot of a hugetransport plane.
pilpul
pimperneln/ SpimpErTnel /L > E namea common herb having scarlet,white, or purplish flowers that closeat the approach of rainy or cloudyweather.One variety of pimpernel is alsoknown as “poor man’sweatherglass.”pinched
pincushion
pincushionsn pl/ SpinTkUshEnz /E + L > F > Esmall cushions in which pins maybe stuck ready for use.Kathryn has several pincushions inher sewing cabinet.
pinkeye
pinnateadj/ SpiTnCt /Lresembling a feather especially inhaving similar parts arranged onopposite sides of an axis like thebarbs on the spine of a feather.The chick-pea plant bears pinnateleaves.
pinyinn/ SpinTyin /Chinesea system for romanizing Chineseideograms in which tones areindicated by diacritics andunaspirated consonants aretranscribed as voiced.Our newspapers adopted pinyin forspelling the names of Chineseofficials.
pipable
piping
pipit
piquant
pique
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piquette
pirarucu
Piscesn/ SpI(T)sGz /Lthe 12th sign of the zodiac.Pisces falls between Aquarius andAries.
piscivorous
pisco
pisiformadj/ SpIsETfOrm /Lresembling a pea in size or shape.Johan purchased three cubic yardsof pisiform gravel for his newdriveway.
pistiln/ SpistFl /L[has homonym: pistol] the ovule-bearing organ of a seed plant.The lily has but one pistil; thedaffodil has several.
pistilloid
pitchv/ Spich /Etoss so as to cause to fall at or neara particular mark.On warm summer evenings Dadlikes to pitch horseshoes in thebackyard.
pitchblenden/ SpichTblend /Ga brown to black mineral that has adistinctive luster, contains radium,and is the chief ore-mineral sourceof uranium.A German chemist discovereduranium in pitchblende in 1789.
pitchfork
pithecanadj/ pDSthGkEn /Gkof, relating to, or resembling apes,especially the anthropoid apes.The unearthed skull exhibited manypithecan characteristics.
pithos
pitiful
pitilessadj/ SpiZGlDs /Edevoid of or unmoved bycompassion.The pitiless tornado bore onward,ripping up everything in its path.
placardsn pl/ SplaTkBrdz /F > Eposters, signs.The demonstrators carriedplacards protesting the use ofanimals for pharmaceutical testing.
placatev/ SplCTkCt /Lsoothe or mollify especially bymaking concessions : appease.The labor relations team workedhard to placate the factory workersto avoid a strike.
placeholder
placement
placid
placidlyadv/ SplasDdlG /Lcalmly, serenely.The once-violent river now flowsplacidly along.
plafond
plage
plagiarist
plaguen/ SplCg /L > F > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] adestructively numerous influx ormultiplication of a noxious animal.Although only a foolish optimistcould deny the dark realities of ourcountry in 1941, we were strickenby no plague of locusts.
plaguing
plaid
plaidoyer
plainsongn/ SplCnTsON /L > F > E + Ethe ancient nonmetricalmonophonic chant of the churchservice.The psalm was chanted inplainsong.
plainspoken
plaintfuladj/ SplCntfEl /L > F > Emournful.Plaintful over the loss of her petrabbit, Jennifer decided not to getanother pet.
plaintive
plaintivelyadv/ SplCntDvlG /F > Ein a manner expressive of grief orsadness.Three-year-old Jamie askedplaintively for his lost teddy bear.
planeload
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plangencyn/ SplanjEnsG /Lan expressive especially plaintivequality.Regret and grief were expressed inthe plangency of the singer’s voice.
plangent
plangorous
planish
plantainn/ SplantFn /L > F > Ethe starchy fruit of the plantain treethat is distinguished from theordinary banana by its angularshape and green color.Fried chips of plantain are acommon snack in the Caribbean.
plantigradeadj/ SplantETgrCd /Lwalking on the sole with the heeltouching the ground.Most primates are not plantigrade.
plaquetten/ plaSket /D > Fa metal stamping die that is cut inrelief and used to decorate the sidesof leather bookbindings.Lars was required to make his ownplaquette to earn a merit badge forbookbinding.
plasman/ SplazmE /Gk > L > Gan ionized gas (as in theatmosphere of stars) containingabout equal numbers of positiveions and electrons and differingfrom an ordinary gas in being agood conductor of electricity and inbeing affected by a magnetic field.“The thing that looks like a bluedonut on your handout is anillustration of how magnetic ringsare used in confinement ofplasma,” said Professor Rooki.
plastron
plateaun/ plaStP /Fland area having a relatively levelsurface raised sharply aboveadjacent land on at least one side.The Columbia lava plateau islocated in eastern Washington andOregon.
platformn/ SplatTfOrm /Fa shoe having a usually thick layer(as of cork or wood) between theinner sole and outer sole.In the ’70s, the platform was theshoe associated with bell-bottomsand long skirts.
platinaadj/ plEStGnE /Spof the color platinum—usedespecially of pale bluish gray furs.The platina fur coat was the mostexpensive garment in the store.
platitude
platitudinaladj/ TplaZEStVd(F)nEl /Fhaving the characteristics of athought or remark that is stale, dull,trite, or weak.The old pastor’s homilies wereusually portentously platitudinal.
platitudinizev/ TplaZEStVdFnTIz /F + Lcf > Fcf + Ecffutter remarks that are flat, dull,trite, or weak.The politician’s tendency toplatitudinize belies the fact that hehas innovative ideas.
Platonicadj/ plEStBnik /Gk namebeing in accordance with or in themanner of the Greek philosopherPlato and his works.Iris Murdoch has written modernPlatonic dialogues.
platoon
platycrania
platypodian/ TplaZGSpPdGE /Gkflat-footedness.Platypodia no longer disqualifiesan applicant from joining the army.
platysman/ plEStizmE /Gk > La broad thin layer of muscle oneach side of the neck.Cory’s training for his massagetherapy license included learningthe names of the muscles of theneck and back, including theplatysma, the trapezius, and theintracostal.
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plausibilityn/ TplOzESbilEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingsuperficially worthy of belief.Half-truths, because of theirplausibility, are frequently moredangerous than outright lies.
plausibly
pleasurable
plebeian
plebiscitary
plebiscite
plectrum
pledge
pleiotropicadj/ TplIEStrBpik /Gk + Gkproducing more than one effect—used of a gene.The subject of David’s research isa pleiotropic gene that inducesshortening of the ear and reducesgeneral body size in the mouse.
plenipotent
pleodont
pleuropneumonian/ TplUrPn(y)VSmPnyE /Gkinflammation of the lungs and theirmembranous sacs.Parasitic microorganisms cancause pleuropneumonia in sheepand goats.
pliable
plicatile
plight
plotless
ploy
plumberyn/ SplEmErG /Lthe business or work of one whoinstalls, repairs, and maintainspiping, fittings, and fixturesinvolved in the distribution and useof water in a building.While Paul was in vocationalschool, he demonstrated a strongaptitude for plumbery.
plummetedv/ SplEmDZDd /L > F > Edropped sharply and abruptly.The San Francisco streetplummeted down toward the bay.
plumoseadj/ SplVTmPs /Lhaving feathers or plumes :feathered.Emily’s plumose mask was a hit atthe Mardi Gras party.
plunder
plunderbundn/ SplEndE(r)TbUnd /G + Ga league of commercial, political,or financial interests that exploitsthe public.Some people think the Internet hasbecome nothing more than aglorified plunderbund.
plundered
pluperfect
pluricellular
plutocraticadj/ TplVZESkraZik /Gkof, relating to, or characterized byrule or dominion of wealth or of therich.The suburb had clean air, goodschools, and a plutocratic citygovernment.
plutonium
pluviosityn/ TplVvGSBsEZG /Lthe quality of being marked by orregularly receiving heavy rainfall.High pluviosity is a characteristicof most places along the equator.
plywood
pneumectomyn/ n(y)VSmektEmG /Gkthe surgical removal of lung tissue.The surgeon happily announcedthat the pneumectomy wascompletely successful.
pneumococcin pl/ Tn(y)VmESkBTkI /Gk + Gkbacteria that cause acutepneumonia involving one or morelobes of the lung.Penicillin-resistant pneumococciare also usually resistant toerythromycin and tetracycline.
pneumococcus
pneumonia
pneumonicadj/ n(y)VSmBnik /Gkof or relating to the lungs.Pneumonic diseases like asthmaand bronchitis are more prevalentin heavily polluted areas.
pneumothoraxn/ Tn(y)VmPSthPrTaks /Gka state in which air or other gas ispresent in the pleural cavity.The paramedic acted quickly toprevent a potentially debilitatingpneumothorax in the accidentvictim.
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pochetten/ pPSshet /Fkit : handbag.Tanya carried her money and keysin a small silk pochette thatmatched her evening dress.
pochismon/ pPSchGz(T)mP /Spa term of U.S. origin borrowed intoMexican Spanish.Juan believes that not a singlepochismo adds to the beauty of theSpanish language.
pocketbook
pocketing
pockmark
podagran/ pESdagrE /Gka painful condition of the big toecaused by gout.George’s podiatrist recommendedchanges in his diet to relieve hispodagra before resorting tomedication.
podium
pogamoggan
pogonotomy
pogrom
poi
poignancy
poimenicsn pl/ pOiSmeniks /Gkthe study or application of pastoraltheology.Rather than compete withtraditional theology programs, theuniversity has started a graduateprogram in poimenics.
pointen/ SpwBMt /L > Fthe extreme tip of the toe.The teacher told the students tostand on pointe while she evaluatedtheir form.
poisesn pl/ SpwBzDz /F namecentimeter-gram-second absoluteunits of viscosity, each equal to 1dyne-second per square centimeter.After melting and conditioning,glass is delivered to a formingmachine in a manageable shape ata viscosity of approximately 10,000poises.
poison
pokal
polarimetern/ TpPlESrimEZE(r) /L + Gkan instrument for determining theamount of polarization of light.Cagney required a very accuratepolarimeter for his experiments.
polariscopic
polarizable
pole
policeman
policy
poliorcetics
polishedv/ SpBlisht /L > F > Emade smooth and glossy by amechanical process usually byfriction.The wizard polished a small objectvigorously on his robe.
polissoir
politely
political
politician
politicization
politicize
politico
politics
poll
pollardsn pl/ SpBlE(r)dz /G > Etrees that have been cut back to thetrunk to promote the growth of adense head of foliage.Emma’s frequent walks alongVicarage Lane soon acquainted herwith the hedges, gates, pools, andpollards of that part of Highbury.
pollingadj/ SpPliN /Eof or relating to the registering orcasting of votes.Harry got off work early to vote onpolling day.
polychotomous
polycyclic
polygraphern/ pESligrEfEr /Gkone skilled in the use of aninstrument for making a graphicrecord of the changes in bloodpressure and pulse and respirationrate of someone being questionedunder or as if under suspicion ofguilt.The law holds that the opinions of apolygrapher regarding the veracityof a person are not admissibleevidence.
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polymern/ SpBlDmE(r) /Gka natural or synthetic chemicalcompound or mixture ofcompounds consisting essentiallyof repeating structural units.Fascinated by the polymer they hadcreated, the students tossed it fromone side of the lab to the other.
polymerize
polyonymous
polypropylenen/ TpBlGSprPpETlGn /Gk + ISVa polymer of propylene; especially: such a polymer used chiefly inmaking fibers, films, and moldedand extruded products.Much of today’s indoor-outdoorcarpeting is made of wovenpolypropylene.
polyptychn/ SpBlDpTtik /Gkan arrangement of four or morepanels (as of a painting) usuallyhinged and folding together.Pauline used an antique polyptychas a room divider.
polystyrenen/ TpBlGSstITrGn /Gka rigid transparent thermoplasticthat has good physical andelectrical insulating properties andis used chiefly in makingcontainers and other moldedproducts and sheet materials.Some restaurants have stoppedusing polystyrene cups becausethey are not biodegradable.
polysyndetonn/ TpBlGSsindETtBn /Gkrepetition of conjunctions in closesuccession.“We have our passports and ourmoney and our tickets and ourluggage, and the tank is full ofgas,” said Mother Gazda inunconscious polysyndeton.
polyvinyl
pomeridianadj/ TpPmESridGEn /Lblossoming after noon.A common pomeridian gardenplant is the four-o’clock thatblossoms late in the afternoon.
pomiferous
pompeiin/ pBmSpC /It geog namea moderate to deep reddish brown.Nancy’s favorite earth tone ispompeii.
pomposityn/ pBmSpBsEZG /La self-important demeanor, speech,or action.Though he had much power, theleader exhibited no trace ofpomposity.
ponceaun/ pBnSsP /L > Fa strong red to reddish orange.The artificial poppies worn onVeterans’ Day are of the distinctcolor ponceau.
ponceletn/ SpBn(t)slDt /F namea unit of power in physics equal tothe amount of power obtained froman output of 100 kilogram-metersper second.Kristin’s advanced physics classspent an entire week learning aboutunits of measurement such as theponcelet, the rankine, and the barn.
poncho
ponderal
ponderance
ponderosity
ponderouslyadv/ SpBnd(E)rEslG /L > F > E + Ecfin an oppressively heavy manner.A statue of Zeus sits ponderouslyatop the small pavilion.
ponerologyn/ TpBnESrBlEjG /Gka branch of theology dealing withthe doctrine of evil.Ponerology still made a lot of senseto Damian despite everything hehad been taught about genetics andthe influence of environment.
ponorn/ SpPTnO(E)r /Serbo-Croatiana steep-sided sinkhole.Ms. Ventura cautioned the Scoutsto avoid the ponor at the edge ofthe old quarry.
pontal
pontifical
pontoon
poolroom
popinjay
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poplar
popular
populate
population
pore
poroscopy
porous
porphyous
portable
portentn/ SpOrTtent /Lsomething that foreshadows acoming event : omen.The seer viewed the blood-redmoon as a portent of evil.
portfolion/ pPrtSfPlGTP /L > Ita flat portable case for carryingpapers or drawings.Mr. Barnstone set his portfoliobehind the door as he entered thehouse.
porticon/ SpPrZDkP /L > Ita colonnade or covered walkway.The pair entered the shaded porticofor a private conversation.
portion
portulacan/ TpPrchESlakE /Lany plant of a genus of mainlytropical succulent herbs havingusually yellow, pink, red, white, orpurple ephemeral flowers with fourto six petals.A hanging pot by Linda’s frontdoor contained a portulaca withyellow flowers.
posit
positron
postn/ SpPst /E[has near homonym: posed] apiece of timber or other solidsubstance (as metal) fixed orintended to be fixed firmly in anupright position especially as a stayor support.The first step in constructing afence is to dig a hole for each post.
postmortemn/ pPs(t)SmOrtEm /L + Lan examination of a body afterdeath to determine the cause ofdeath or the character and extent ofchanges produced by disease.The postmortem revealed that thecause of death was asphyxiation.
postnuptialadj/ pPstSnEpshEl /Lmade or happening after marriage.The bride and groom posed forpostnuptial photographs.
postponable
postulancy
potamologistn/ TpBZESmBlEjDst /Gka specialist in the study of rivers.Fran, who knew many rivers likethe back of her hand, was apotamologist.
potashn/ SpBZTash /Dpotassium carbonate.In colonial days potash was used tomake soap.
potencyadj/ SpPtFnsG /Lforce, power, authority.Massed action and individual efforteach has its own potency.
potentiality
potentiallyadv/ pEStenchElG /L + Ecfin a possible state or condition :with a possibility or capacity ofbecoming actual.The rash on Henrietta’s arm couldpotentially spread if not treated.
potentiometer
potiche
potoroon/ TpPZESrV /Australian nameany of various small Australian andTasmanian kangaroos that are nolarger than a rabbit.The rabbit-sized potoroo forages atnight for grass, tubers, andunderground fungi, which it digs upwith its forepaws.
potsherd
pouncev/ SpaUn(t)s /Esuddenly seize, grab, attack.Stanley watched the owl pounce onthe rat.
pour
powdery
power
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powwowsn pl/ SpaUTwaUz /Algonquianmeetings or conferences fordiscussion : sessions.The team holds daily powwowsbefore practice.
practical
practitioner
pragmaticadj/ pragSmaZik /Gk > Lpractical, matter-of-fact.Edmund took a pragmatic stanceon most things in his life, especiallyhis finances.
pragmatically
prairien/ SprerG /L > Fa meadow or tract of grassland.The prairie stretched out broad andflat to the horizon in everydirection.
prairillonn/ prCSrilyEn /Fa small meadow or tract ofgrassland.Baron Munchausen’s ranch turnedout to be a two-room shack and aweed-covered prairillon.
praiss
pralltriller
prancer
prankster
prase
prate
prattlen/ TpraZFl /Gtrifling or empty talk or chatter.The endless prattle on the bus rideannoyed Mr. Danton.
preaudit
precarious
precariouslyadv/ prGSka(a)rGEslG /Lin a manner characterized by a lackof security or stability.Teddy balanced precariously on thechair as he attempted to extract thelast Oreo from the cookie jar.
precede
precedesv/ prGSsGdz /L[has near homonym: proceeds]goes before in order of time :occurs before with relation tosomething.A certain stillness precedes atempest.
precentor
preceptor
precessionn/ prGSseshEn /L[has near homonym: procession] acomparatively slow gyration of therotation axis of a spinning body.Precession of Earth’s axis willmake Vega our North Star in about13,000 years.
precessional
preciosities
precious
precipitancy
precipitant
precipitatev/ prGSsipETtCt /Lcause a substance to separate froma solution in a concrete state as aresult of a chemical or physicalchange.Calcium and magnesium ions inhard water can precipitate calciumand magnesium carbonate, often aproblem in domestic water pipes.
precipitatedv/ prGSsipETtCZDd /Lcaused to move or act very rapidly.The completion of the railroadprecipitated the demise ofwaterborne transport.
precipitationn/ (T)prGTsipEStCshEn /La deposit on Earth of hail, mist,rain, sleet, or snow; also : thequantity of water deposited.Low-pressure areas normally bringclouds and precipitation.
preciseadj/ prGSsIs /L > Fdevoid of anything vague,equivocal, or uncertain.Mr. Rouse is quite precise abouteverything, and he has never beenknown to joke with a student.
precludev/ TprGSklVd /Lprevent or hinder by necessaryconsequence or implication.Being a movie star did not precludeRonald Reagan from having asuccessful political career.
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preconditionedv/ TprGkEnSdishEnd /L + L + Ecfput in proper or desired conditionin advance of some intendedtreatment.Before new wood is painted itshould be preconditioned with aprimer.
predecease
predicamentn/ prGSdikEmEnt /La difficult, perplexing, or tryingsituation.Miss Bates, though having muchpublic favor, stood in the veryworst predicament in the world:She was neither young, handsome,rich, nor married.
preemptiveadj/ prGSem(p)tiv /Lbeing or related to a first militarystrike made to gain an advantagewhen a strike by the enemy isbelieved imminent.The ability to launch a preemptivestrike against a possible aggressoris a major factor in the theory ofnuclear deterrence.
preemptory
prefabricate
prefabrication
preface
preferred
prehensility
prehistoryn/ prGShist(E)rG /Lcf + Gkan account comprising achronological record of thepreceding circumstances of anevent or situation.The prehistory of the tensionbetween the boss and his employeesincludes some family issues.
prelapsarianadj/ TprGTlapSsa(a)rGEn /L + Ecfcharacteristic of or belonging to thetime before the fall of man.The painting depicted Adam andEve in prelapsarian paradise.
preluden/ SprCTlVd /La musical section or movementintroducing the theme or chiefsubject.Tycho arrived at the concert afterthe prelude was over.
premature
prematurelyadv/ TprGmEStU(E)rlG /L + Ecfbefore the proper time : too soon.Not wanting to tire prematurely,the rowing crew began the race bypulling easily.
prenuptial
prepaid
preparate
preparationsn pl/ TprepESrCshEnz /Lactions or processes of makingsomething ready for use or service.Tina’s preparations for the partyincluded decorating the room andbaking the cookies.
preponderance
preposition
prepossessingadj/ TprGpESzesiN /Ltending to please or arouseconfidence : creating a favorableimpression.With her impeccable carriage andher prematurely white hair, Lydiawas a prepossessing figure at thepolitical convention.
preprandialadj/ prGSprandGEl /Lof, relating to, or suitable for thetime immediately before dinner.Before the main course, Benitoserved a preprandial soup.
prerequisiten/ prGSrekwEzDt /Lsomething that is mandatorybeforehand.A Juris Doctor degree is aprerequisite for the practice of law.
presbyopia
Presbyterianadj/ TprezbEStirGEn /Gkof, relating to, or constituting aProtestant church that is governedby a graded system ofrepresentative ecclesiastical bodiesand is traditionally Calvinistic indoctrine.While in college, William grewinterested in becoming aPresbyterian minister.
prescribe
prescriptive
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preservev/ prGSzErv /Lcan, pickle, or similarly prepare (asfruits or vegetables) for future use.Beverly hurried to preserve herbumper crop of peaches before theybecame overripe.
pressurization
prestigious
presumptuous
presylvian
pretender
preterient
preterlabentadj/ TprGZE(r)SlCbEnt /Lflowing beside or by.Mr. Ross pumped water from apreterlabent stream to irrigate hisvegetable garden.
prettier
pretzeln/ SpretsEl /L > Ga glazed usually salted bakeryproduct made of a rope of doughtypically twisted into a formresembling the letter B.Brian munched on a large pretzelas he watched his favoritetelevision program.
prevailv/ prGSvCl /Lbe or become effective or effectual: be successful.The attorney was confident thatjustice would prevail in the case.
prevailing
prevaricator
previous
prevocalic
preyv/ SprC /L > F > Emake raids for the sake of booty.Pirates prey on the coastalshipping off Somalia’s coast.
prickle
priggish
primacy
primatial
primatologistn/ TprImEStBlEjDst /L + Gka specialist in the study of membersof the order Primates especiallyother than recent humans.Jane Goodall’s many years ofstudying chimpanzees has made herthe world’s most famousprimatologist.
primero
primeval
primogenituren/ TprImPSjenETchU(E)r /Lthe state of being the firstborn ofthe children of the same parents.In British law, male primogenitureis used to determine inheritance ofreal estate and titles.
princely
principle
prionodont
priority
priory
priscanadj/ SpriskEn /L + Ecfdealing with or existing in ancienttimes.Professor McCowan is an experton druidism and other priscanreligions of Britain.
prismn/ SprizEm /Gk > La transparent body that is boundedin part by two nonparallel planefaces and is used to refract ordisperse a beam of light.The prism cast an array of colorson the tablecloth.
prisonern/ Spriz(F)nE(r) /L > F > Ea person held under arrest or inprison.For good behavior at thepenitentiary, the prisoner wasreleased after serving one-third ofhis sentence.
privetn/ SprivDt /unknownan ornamental Eurasian andnorthern African shrub that is usedextensively for hedges and hashalf-evergreen leaves and smallwhite flowers.Oliver planted privet along theedge of his front yard.
privileged
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privilegesn pl/ Spriv(E)lijDz /Lvarious fundamental rightsconsidered as peculiarly guaranteedand secured to all persons (as theenjoyment of life and liberty andthe right to pursue happiness).Patrick Henry was convinced thatthe colonists must fight if theywished to preserve inviolate theprivileges for which they had beencontending.
privyadj/ SprivG /L > F > Eprivately aware as one participatingsecretly.Although she was not privy to theirsecrets, Alice could guess what hersisters were up to.
probability
probationn/ prPSbCshEn /Lthe action of suspending thesentence of a convicted offenderand giving the offender freedomduring good behavior under thesupervision of a probation officer.Because of the extenuatingcircumstances, the judge decidedon probation instead of a prisonsentence.
probationer
probityn/ SprPbEZG /Luprightness, rectitude.Mr. C. Z. Armand is a man ofindisputable probity.
procacious
procacity
procathedral
processus
proclaim
procrastination
procrypsis
prodigy
prodromaladj/ prPSdrPmEl /Gkprecursory; especially : of, relatingto, or marked by warningsymptoms of a disease.Half of the people who have heartattacks have had prodromalsymptoms ranging from nausea anddizziness to chest pressure.
production
profert
professional
professor
professorialadj/ TprPfESsPrGEl /Ldidactic, learned.The eminently professorial volumeon verb tenses in English wasimpractical for those learningEnglish as a foreign language.
proffer
proficientadj/ prESfishEnt /L[has near homonym: perficient]well advanced in an art,occupation, skill, or a branch ofknowledge.Many educators feel that it isimperative for grade schoolchildren to become proficient inmore than one language.
profile
profligateadj/ SprBflDgDt /Lcompletely given up to wildextravagance or excess.Lord Kensington’s profligatespending was the reason for themeeting with his banker.
progenitorsn pl/ prPSjenEZE(r)z /Lancestors in the direct line :forefathers.The land had been in the hands ofMr. Williamson and his progenitorsfor several generations.
prohibit
projectilen/ prESjektFl /La self-propelling weapon (as arocket, torpedo, or guided missile).The sensing device will detect anyprojectile larger than a football.
projicient
prolepsisn/ prPSlepsDs /Gka figure in which a matter is setforth in summary before beingstated in detail.Putnam begins with a prolepsis, butthat does nothing to ruin thesuspense as the plot unfolds.
proliferatev/ prPSlifETrCt /L > Fgrow by rapid or repeatedproduction of new parts or of budsor offspring.Blackberry vines will proliferatevery quickly if they are not cutback.
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prolocutorn/ prPSlBkyEZE(r) /Lone who speaks, pleads, orinterprets for another.The prolocutor for the departmentof public works explained that thebridge would be under repair forthe next several weeks.
prolong
Prometheanadj/ prESmGthGEn /Gk > Ldaringly original.Daryl’s success as an inventor islargely the result of hisPromethean approach to problemsolving.
promising
promissory
promotion
promptern/ SprBmT(p)tE(r) /L > Eone who reminds another of thewords to be spoken next;specifically : one responsible forreminding actors duringperformance.The prompter was surprised thatnone of the actors required a cueduring the performance.
proneadj/ SprPn /L > Ehaving the face, chest, or abdomenturned toward the ground, floor, orother supporting surface.The paramedics turned the pronevictim over so that they couldadminister CPR.
pronoun
pronouncementn/ prESnaUn(t)smEnt /L > F > Ea usually formal declaration ofopinion or judgment.The whole town anxiously awaitedJudge Milburn’s pronouncement.
propellable
prophecy
prophesy
prophetn/ SprBfDt /Gk[has homonym: profit] one whospeaks for God or a deity : adivinely inspired revealer,interpreter, or spokesperson.Abraham is considered a greatprophet by several differentreligions.
propitiatory
propound
proprietary
proprietiesn pl/ prESprIEZGz /L > F > Ethe customs and manners of politesociety : conventionally correctbehavior.Not one to bother with proprieties,Luke is considered by most peopleto be downright rude.
propriety
proprioceptiveadj/ TprPprGESseptiv /L + Lactivated by, relating to, or beingstimuli produced within theorganism.Daniel’s study tested whetherblindfolded subjects could useproprioceptive feedback to moveone arm a prescribed distance.
propylenen/ SprPpETlGn /Gk > ISVa flammable gaseous hydrocarbonobtained by cracking petroleumhydrocarbons and used chiefly inorganic synthesis.Propylene is an importantconstituent of automobileantifreeze.
prorate
prosaic
proscriptionn/ prPSskripshEn /Lan imposed restraint or restriction :prohibition.Judith’s consulting contractincludes a six-month proscriptionagainst working for a competingfirm.
prosecutorn/ SprBsDTkVZE(r) /Lan attorney who conductsproceedings especially of acriminal nature in a court on behalfof the government.The prosecutor asked the judge forpermission to approach the bench.
proselytize
proselytizer
prosopography
prosperous
prostaglandinn/ TprBstESglandDn /L > E + L > E + Ecfany of various oxygenatedunsaturated cyclic fatty acids ofanimals that perform a variety ofhormonelike actions (as incontrolling blood pressure orsmooth muscle contraction).All aspirinlike analgesics inhibitsynthesis and release ofprostaglandin.
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prosthesisn/ prBsSthGsDs /Gkan artificial device to replace amissing part of the body.After losing his right foot in anaccident, Stan had to learn to walkagain with a prosthesis.
prostrateadj/ SprBTstrCt /Lextended in a horizontal position.Jeremy lay prostrate on the dockand watched the fishes in the water.
prostrationn/ prBSstrCshEn /Lcomplete physical or mentalexhaustion.When Chris came down with theflu, she suffered from chills, fever,and prostration.
protégé
Proterozoicadj/ TprBZErESzPik /Gkof or relating to a division ofgeological time from the beginningof the Huronian to the close of theKeweenawan.Annelid worms and blue-green andbrown algae lived during theProterozoic era.
protervity
proton
protoplasmn/ SprPZETplazEm /(Gk + Gk) > Gorganized living matter : the moreor less fluid colloidal complexmaking up each cell.Under a microscope protoplasmexhibits a variety of appearances.
protostar
protractor
proven
provender
provenience
providence
providentialadj/ TprBvESdenchEl /Lof, relating to, or determined bydivine guidance.Arthur’s arrival in the nick of timeseemed providential.
providing
province
provolone
prowlv/ SpraUl /Emove about or wander stealthily inthe manner of a wild beast seekingprey.Captain Andrews and hissubmariners were ordered to prowlthe North Atlantic.
prudence
prudentlyadv/ SprVdFntlG /L > F > Ein a wise or judicious manner.Hakim prudently put suntan lotionon his ears.
pruner
pruritusn/ prUSrIZEs /Llocalized or generalized itching dueto irritation of sensory nerveendings.Alice applied an ointment on therash to relieve the pruritus.
psalmist
psalterer
psammite
psammon
psammophile
pschentn/ S(p)skent /Egypt > Gkthe headdress of the later Egyptianpharaohs formed of the two crownsworn by the respective pharaohs ofUpper Egypt and Lower Egyptbefore the union of the countryunder one rule.The pharaoh’s statue stood 66 feethigh from the feet to the pschentcovering his head.
psephologyn/ sGSfBlEjG /Gkthe scientific study of elections.The pollster claims that prudentpsephology indicates that Liberalsmay lose a few seats in the nextelection.
pseudodoxyn/ SsVdPTdBksG /Gkan erroneous belief; also : theholding of erroneous beliefs.The pseudodoxy that walking undera ladder will bring bad luck is stillheld by many reasonable people.
pseudonym
pseudonymityn/ TsVdFnSimEZG /Gk + Ecfthe fact or state of being signed (asa book or other writing) with afictitious name.To avoid becoming a celebrity,Professor Stanton hid his science-fiction writings under the cloak ofpseudonymity.
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pseudopticsn pl/ sVdSBptiks /Gk + Gkthe study of optical illusions.The aspiring magician was verymuch interested in the field ofpseudoptics.
pseudosyllogism
psittacismn/ SsiZETsizEm /Gk > Lautomatic speech without thoughtof the meaning of the wordsspoken.Daniela was alarmed that herpledge of allegiance to the flag hadbecome mere psittacism.
psittacosisn/ TsiZESkPsDs /Gk > Lan infectious disease of birds that istransmissible to man.Vincent’s doctor has had him underobservation since his macaw wasdiagnosed with psittacosis.
psychagogy
psychalgia
psychoanalysis
psychology
psychotogenic
psylliumn/ SsilGEm /Gk[has homonym: cilium] an OldWorld plantain having seeds thatswell and become gelatinous whenmoist and that are used as a mildlaxative.When a laxative is needed, healthprofessionals recommend productsthat contain psyllium, a naturalfiber.
ptericadj/ Sterik /Gkresembling a wing.Hundreds of pteric maple seedswere wafting through the air inGeorge’s backyard.
Ptolemaicadj/ TtBlESmCik /Gkof or relating to Ptolemy, thegeographer and astronomer.Galileo got into big trouble bychallenging the Ptolemaic view ofthe universe.
ptyalinn/ StIElDn /Gk > ISVan enzyme found in the saliva ofmany animals including humansbut not in that of horses, dogs, orcats.Ptyalin helps in the digestion ofstarches.
publicistn/ SpEblEsDst /L > Fan agent employed by anindividual, organization, or groupto establish and maintain goodpublic relations.The author of the tell-all book onceworked as a publicist for severalrock stars.
puccoon
pueblon/ Spwe(T)blP /L > Spa type of town founded by MexicanSpanish settlers in the southwesternUnited States.Sadly, the ancient pueblo has beenabandoned by residents who havechosen to move to larger cities.
puffin
pugnacity
pulchritudinousadj/ SpElkrETtVdFnEs /Lbeautiful.The hallway in the Fall CreekTheatre is lined with posters ofpulchritudinous movie stars.
pulkan/ SpElkE /Finn&Lappa one-person Lapp sledge shapedlike half a canoe and resting on abroad board or several runners.Timmy tried in vain to harness theSt. Bernard to the pulka.
pulley
pullulation
pulpiteering
pulpitryn/ SpUlTpitrG /Lpreaching.Jack is reading a book on the art ofpulpitry.
pulque
pulsate
pulsebeat
pulverizedv/ SpElvETrIzd /L > Fdestroyed by or as if by smashinginto fragments : disintegrated,demolished.The nightly news began withfootage of beach homes pulverizedby Hurricane Fran.
pumiciten/ SpEmETsIt /La type of volcanic dust used forabrasive purposes.The instructions recommendedusing pumicite to smooth the metal.
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pumpkin
puncheon
punctiliar
puncture
pundonor
punish
punster
punyadj/ SpyVnG /Fslight or inferior in size.No one would ever guess that thestrong and stocky wrestler waspuny as a child.
pupan/ SpyVpE /Lan insect in an intermediate formthat is between the larval and theimaginal stages.The pupa inside the beautiful jadeshell with golden dots will soontransform into a monarch butterfly.
pupillometer
puppeteer
purblindadj/ SpErTblInd /L > F > E + Elacking in vision, insight, orunderstanding.Tom was despotic and purblind tothe feelings of his wife andchildren.
purchase
purga
Purimn/ SpUrEm /Heba Jewish festival celebrated on the14th of Adar in commemoration ofthe deliverance of the Jews fromthe massacre plotted by Haman.Purim has its roots in the book ofEsther.
puritanicaladj/ TpyUrEStanDkEl /L + Ecffmorally rigorous, strict.Mrs. Langley is a puritanicalwoman who tolerates no nonsensefrom her students.
purlv/ SpErl /unknowndo knitting in a stitch that creates aswirling appearance.Claire’s mom will teach her to purlnow that Claire has mastered thebasic knitting stitch.
purplish
purport
purportedadj/ pErSpP(E)rZDd /L > F > AFsuspected of being : rumored.The purported spies were held incustody without being providedlegal assistance.
purslanen/ SpErslDn /L > F > Ean annual herb widely distributedin both hemispheres whose fleshysucculent leaves are used incooking and salads.At the vegetarian café, Robertaordered a delicious salad ofpurslane and other greens.
pursuant
pursuantlyadv/ pE(r)SsVEntlG /L > F + Ecfconsequently.Laura put all her effort into herwriting classes; pursuantly, shewon the Metzger Prize for beststudent journalist, but nearly failedcalculus.
pursue
pursuing
pursuitn/ pE(r)SsVt /F > AF > Ea chasing with haste.One of the others who was nearestthe door leaped up and started inpursuit.
pursuivantn/ SpErs(w)DvEnt /F > Ethe lowest rank of one learning theprofession of heraldry.After studying for a year, Jamesearned the right to be called apursuivant.
purview
putativeadj/ SpyVZEZiv /Lcommonly accepted or supposed.The putative owner of the viciousdog claimed to have never seen theanimal before.
putrefaction
putrilagen/ SpyVtrElij /Lmatter that is rotting.The pile of putrilage squirmed withmaggots and insects.
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puzzlev/ SpEzEl /unknownbewilder mentally.Mark told Mary to stop trying topuzzle his sad brains.
pyelitis
pyramidoidal
pyrexian/ pISreksGE /Gkelevation of body temperature to anabnormal level : fever.The veterinarian was concernedabout the dog’s pyrexia because itcould be an indication ofdistemper.
pyrographyn/ pISrBgrEfG /Gkthe art or process of producingdesigns or pictures by burning orscorching with hot instruments.Bone and ivory form good groundsfor fine pyrography.
pyrolatry
pyrometern/ pISrBmEZE(r) /Gkan instrument for measuringtemperatures.The pyrometer is often used tomeasure temperatures beyond therange of a mercurial thermometer.
pyrophilen/ SpIrPTfIl /Gk + Gkone who is enthusiastic over fire orfireworks.Being a pyrophile, Brian eagerlyawaited the Fourth of Julyfireworks display.
Pythagoreanadj/ pDTthagESrGEn /Gk nameof or relating to the Greekphilosopher Pythagorus or hisphilosophy.The Pythagorean theorem statesthat in a right triangle, the squareof the hypotenuse is equal to thesum of the squares of the other twosides.
Pythiann/ SpithGEn /Gkof or relating to the ancient Greekgod Apollo especially as patrondeity of Delphi.The museum at Delphi containsmany Pythian statues from thetemple of Apollo.
pythonist
quadragenary
quadratic
quadrigamist
quadrillion
quadroon
quadrumana
quadrumvirate
quadrupedadj/ SkwBdrETped /Lhaving four feet : using four limbswhen walking.Sally’s apartment lease restricts theweight of any quadruped pets.
quaff
quaffingly
quaintness
quake
qualify
qualmish
quantal
quantimeter
quantitate
quarterbackn/ SkwOrZErTbak /L > F > E + Ea backfield player in football whousually lines up behind the center,calls the signals, and directs theoffensive play of his team.The Denver Broncos quarterbackJohn Elway led his team to a SuperBowl championship in 1998.
quarterdeck
quarterly
quartile
quartzite
quasquicentennialn/ TkwBskwGTsenStenGEl /La 125th anniversary.The city of Corner Brook, foundedin 1873, is hosting a largecelebration for itsquasquicentennial this summer.
quattrocenton/ TkwBtrPSchen(T)tP /L > Itthe 15th century; specifically : the15th-century period in Italianliterature and art.Lorenzo De Medici was one of thechief supporters of Italian artduring the quattrocento.
quaver
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quaversn pl/ SkwCvE(r)z /Etremulous uncertainties of tone (asin the voice due to emotion).The quavers in Leslie’s voiceincreased as she related theaccident.
quavery
quayage
queensware
quemadero
querencia
querist
quesadillan/ TkCsESdGyE /L > Spa turnover made usually with acheese filling.Joyce usually eats a quesadilla asan afternoon snack.
questionable
queued
quiaquian/ SkGETkGE /Spa small fusiform carangid fish ofthe western Atlantic related to andoften included among the mackerelscads.The quiaquia is a food fishfrequently caught in the Caribbean.
quibbling
quicksand
quicksilver
quiddities
quiescentlyadv/ kwISesFntlG /Lin a manner marked by inactivity orrepose.The virus insinuates itself intoselected cells, where it may residequiescently for prolonged periodsof time.
quiet
quilan/ SkGlE /Araucan > Spa grass of the southern part ofSouth America that resemblesbamboo, is used as forage, and hasa fiber used in making paper.Josefina knows how to make paperfrom quila.
quilt
quince
quindene
quinquevirn/ SkwinkwETvi(E)r /Lone of a commission, council, orruling body of five (as in ancientRome).When Karen was a quinquevir ofher school’s Student Council, shelearned firsthand that too manycooks can spoil the stew.
quintaln/ SkwintFl /Ar > L > F > Ea metric unit equal to 100kilograms.It always makes Fred feel better tosay that he weighs only 1 quintal.
quintuplet
quixoten/ SkwikTsPt /Sp namean idealistic and utterly impracticalperson marked by rash loftyromantic ideas or chivalrous actiondoomed to fail.Because of his grandiose butunrealistic plan to eliminatepoverty, the dictator has beencalled a “quixote.”quixotically
quixotism
quiz
quizmaster
quoddyn/ SkwBdG /American geog namean open sloop-rigged sailboat onceused especially for fishing alongthe Maine coast.Julia runs a business in BarHarbor, taking tourists fishing inher quoddy.
quoit
rabannan/ rESbanE /Malagasya coarse matting handwoven fromraffia fibers in Madagascar.The village woman sat on a mat ofrabanna and watched the childrenplaying.
rabbinical
rabble
rabboni
rabies
racetrack
rachitogenic
racial
rackettail
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radiation
radiator
radically
radicicolous
radiesthesia
radiogoniometer
radiology
radiometern/ TrCdGSBmEZE(r) /L + Gkan instrument for detecting andmeasuring the intensity ofelectromagnetic or acousticradiation.The Crookes radiometer in theform of a rotating toy survives injewelers’ windows as a supposedperpetual motion device.
radiosonden/ SrCdGPTsBnd /L + L > F > Ea miniature radio transmitter that iscarried aloft (as by an unmannedballoon) with instruments forbroadcasting the humidity,temperature, and pressure.The National Weather Service usesthin neoprene balloons to raise theradiosonde to great heights.
radish
radome
radon
radzimir
raffle
rafter
raggedy
ragwortn/ SragTwO(E)rt /Eany of several herbs with headscomposed of flowers.Ragwort can grow in very poorsoil.
railbed
rainbowadj/ SrCnTbP /Ehaving the colors of the spectrum.The chorus wore glittering robesand shiny, rainbow wings for theChristmas pageant.
rainspout
rainstormn/ SrCnTstO(E)rm /E + Ea storm of or with rain.The sudden rainstorm causedflooding at many of the city’sintersections.
rainyadj/ SrCnG /Ewet, showery.After a long dry spell, the rainyweather was welcomed byeveryone.
raisin
raj
rale
rallentando
rambunctiouslyadv/ ramSbEN(k)shEsTlG /L? > Ein an excessively exuberantmanner.The children were warned that ifthey behaved rambunctiously in therestaurant, they would not beallowed to have dessert.
ramentum
ramify
rampartn/ SramTpBrt /L > Prov > Fa broad embankment raised as afortification.With the army in retreat, theinvaders surged over the rampartand into the village.
ramuscule
ranche
randomize
ranineadj/ SrCTnIn /Lof or relating to frogs.The ceaseless ranine chirping fromthe pond kept Marcus awake allnight.
ranunculusn/ rESnENkyElEs /Lany plant of a large and widelydistributed genus of herbs that havesimple or variously lobed leavesand mostly yellow flowers.Patsy planted a ranunculus in a potbeside the kitchen door.
rapacityn/ rESpasEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingurgently eager for food.Despite his rapacity, the freedprisoner limited his food intake soas not to endanger his life.
rapidity
rappee
rappel
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rarefactionn/ Tra(a)rESfakshEn /Lthe act or process of making rare,thin, porous, or less dense.The rarefaction of air can beaccomplished with a vacuum pump,but it is very difficult to achieve atrue vacuum.
rarefy
rareripe
rarioran pl/ Tra(a)rGSPrE /Lunusual collectors’ items.The old man’s study contained awhimsical mixture of rariora.
rasbora
rascaln/ SraskEl /F? > Ea mean, unprincipled, or dishonestperson.The children cheered during themovie when the rascal fell to hisdoom.
rasher
rasorite
raspinglyadv/ SraspiNlG /Fin a grating harsh manner.“Don’t try me,” he said in araspingly mean voice.
rateln/ SrCZFl /D > Afrikaansany of several powerful nocturnalcarnivorous mammals resemblingthe badger and having the pelt ashygray above and black beneath.The ratel uses its strong claws forbreaking open beehives to get itsfavorite food, honey.
rationalizev/ SrashEnFlTIz /L > Egive an explanation of thatconforms with reason.Chauvinists try to rationalize racialprejudice.
rattail
rattletrap
raucityn/ SrOsEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingdisagreeably harsh or strident.Fed up with the raucity of urbanstreet life, the Hamiltons moved toa quiet suburb.
raucously
raunchy
ravenadj/ SrCvEn /E[has homonym: ravin] of the coloror sheen of the raven, a largeglossy-black bird.Callie’s little sister had her heartset on the doll with raven curls.
rawhide
razor
reactionary
readily
readjournv/ TrGESjErn /L > F > Eput off further proceedings ofagain.When the court reconvened at twoo’clock, the defense attorneyimmediately asked the judge if shewould readjourn the trial until thenext day.
reagentn/ rGSCjEnt /La substance used for variouspurposes (as in detecting,examining, or measuring othersubstances, in preparing material,in developing photographs)because it takes part in one or morechemical reactions or biologicalprocesses.Stuart explained that the substanceused up first in the experiment iscalled a “limiting reagent.”realgar
realia
reamer
reassurancen/ rGESshUrEn(t)s /L > Ecf + L > F > Ethe action of inspiring or tending toinspire confidence again.The coach’s reassurance was allthe encouragement Debbie neededto feel confident.
Reaumuradj/ SrCPTmyU(E)r /F namerelating or conforming to athermometric scale on which understandard atmospheric pressure theboiling point of water is at 80degrees above the 0 of the scaleand the freezing point is at 0.Cecelia converted Celsius degreesinto Reaumur degrees bymultiplying by four and dividing byfive.
rebiddable
reblochon
rebuff
rebuke
recalcitration
recamier
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recantv/ rDSkant /Lwithdraw or repudiate (a statementor belief) formally and publicly.The witness decided to recant hertestimony when she was shown thephotograph of the suspect at thescene of the crime.
recedev/ rDSsGd /Lmove back or away.Buck watched the water recede asthe tide went out.
receivable
recency
reception
recession
recessional
recessive
reclamation
reclusiveadj/ rDSklVsiv /Lmarked by seclusion or retirement :solitary.The reclusive movie star had notgiven an interview for years, butthe media camped out in herdriveway nonetheless.
recollective
recommend
recommendedv/ TrekESmendDd /Ladvised, counseled.The doctor recommended thatRobert get more sleep.
recommitmentn/ TrGkESmitmEnt /L + Ecfthe act of pledging again to givesupport to some policy or cause.The president urged arecommitment of the UnitedNations to the basic principles ofhuman welfare.
recompensable
reconcilable
recoupv/ rGSkVp /Fcompensate (as oneself) forsomething (as expenses, losses).Dorene did not expect to recoupher day-trading losses immediately.
recrementn/ SrekrEmEnt /Lsuperfluous matter separated fromthat which is useful.Slag is the recrement produced insmelting iron ore.
recriminatev/ rDSkrimETnCt /Lmake a counter accusation : chargeback a fault or crime against anaccuser.Though she believed her accuser tobe the guilty party, Chelsea refusedto recriminate.
recriminatoryadj/ rDSkrimEnETtPrG /Lhaving the character or nature of acounter accusation.When charged withinsubordination, the soldier filedrecriminatory charges against hiscommanding officer.
recruit
rectificationn/ TrektEfDSkCshEn /Lthe act or process of making orsetting right (as by correcting anerror or amending a fault).Todd called the newspaper’s editorto seek rectification of theerroneous article.
rectifiern/ SrektETfI(E)r /La device for converting alternatingcurrent to direct current.A vacuum tube can act as arectifier in electronic machinery.
rectirostraladj/ TrektESrBstrEl /L + Lhaving a straight beak.Dowitchers are rectirostral shorebirds that feed in mud or shallowwater.
rectituden/ SrektETtVd /Lstrict observance of standards ofintegrity and honesty.Abraham Lincoln was renownedfor his moral rectitude.
rectitudinous
recumbentadj/ rDSkEmbEnt /Llying down.Several sheep, recumbent in thefield, were roused and herded intotheir pen for the night.
recumbentibusn/ TrekEmSbentDbEs /La knockdown blow.The little old lady gave the pursesnatcher a recumbentibus thatstunned witnesses and made her afolk hero.
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recuperationn/ rDTk(y)VTpESrCshEn /Lrestoration to health or strength.The doctor told Ernesto that hisrecuperation after the skiingaccident would take about twomonths.
recursv/ rDSkErz /Lhappens or takes place again.Nikki has made great progress instopping her nail biting, but it is aproblem that recurs now and then.
recyclableadj/ rGSsIk(E)lEbEl /L + Gk + Lcfcapable of being processed in orderto regain material for human use.Each office in the building has itsown receptacle for recyclablepaper.
redactionn/ rDSdakshEn /Lan act or instance of putting into adifferent written form.Cindy did not realize that themusical was a redaction of an 18th-century novel.
redeeming
redemption
redivivus
redolence
redouble
redound
redowan/ SredEwE /Czech > F > Feither of two popular Bohemianballroom dances of the 19thcentury.To Erica’s complete surprise,Ronald danced the redowa veryskillfully.
reduce
redundantadj/ rDSdEndEnt /Lexceeding what is necessary ornormal : superfluous.The newspaper article proved to bemore redundant than informative,stating the same facts in severaldifferent ways.
reekv/ SrGk /Egive off a strong, often offensiveodor.Antiperspirant ads create theimpression that the human bodywill reek with sweat if theadvertised product is not used.
reeled
reenactmentn/ rGDSnak(t)mEnt /Ethe process of performing again.The evening performance featureda reenactment of the role the actorhad made famous.
refectoryn/ rDSfekt(E)rG /La dining hall in a monastery,convent, or religious college.Brother Neil returned to therefectory for dinner.
refer
referendumn/ TrefESrendEm /La popular vote on a measure passedupon or proposed by a legislativebody or by popular initiative.A referendum in Clay Countyraised the minimum age forpurchasing alcohol to 21.
referral
referred
reflectv/ rDSflekt /Lthink quietly and calmly.Jimmy took time to reflect on hislife goals.
reflector
reflorescence
reflorescent
refractorn/ rDSfraktE(r) /La telescope in which the principalfocusing element is a lens that isusually an achromat with crownglass and flint glass components.The world’s largest refractor hasan aperture of 40 inches.
refrain
refrigerate
refringent
refugee
refugeeism
refund
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refurbishv/ rGSfErbish /L > F > E + Gmc > F > Ebrighten or freshen up : renovate.Jeanne decided to refurbish herbedroom with handmade curtainsand a new coat of paint.
refusal
refutev/ rDSfyVt /Loverthrow by argument, evidence,or proof.Try as he might, Richie could notrefute his parents’ decision that hecould not attend the party.
regaled
regelation
regiminal
regisseurn/ TrCzhGSsEr /L > Fdirector : one that supervises theproduction of a show withresponsibility for action, lighting,music, rehearsals, and generally forgiving substance to the conceptionof the author.The regisseur met with the lightingmanager to discuss various ways ofusing light to convey the mood ofthe scene.
register
registered
registration
reglementary
regnant
regressive
regular
rehabilitant
reifyv/ SrGETfI /Lregard an abstraction or mentalconstruction as a thing : convertmentally into something concreteor objective.Success in advanced mathematicsmay depend on the ability to reifyabstract concepts.
reign
reimbursableadj/ TrGDmSbErsEbEl /Lsubject to repayment.Agatha’s medical insurancecompany did not consider a face-lift a reimbursable expense.
reinsn pl/ SrCnz /L > F > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word. Inaddition, word has homonyms:rains, reigns.] position ofcommand.For some who have held the reinsfor so long, it is difficult to give uppower.
rejoinder
rejuvenescent
relative
relaxed
relentlesslyadv/ rDSlentlDslG /Ein a mercilessly hard or harshmanner.Frank relentlessly teased his sister.
relevant
relieve
religion
relinquishedv/ rDSliNwishd /L > F > E + Ecflet go of physically : stoppedholding : released.When the sled came to a stop,Bowser relinquished his hold onBrian’s snow jacket.
relinquishing
reliquiaen pl/ rDSlikwETG /Lremains of the dead : organicremains : relics.Years after the war in Vietnam,reliquiae are still being sent backto the United States.
reliquian
reluctantlyadv/ rDSlEktEntlG /Lunwillingly, grudgingly.Elena reluctantly shared her candybar with her little brother.
remn/ Srem /acronymthe dosage of any ionizing radiationthat will cause the same amount ofbiological injury to human tissue as1 roentgen of X-ray or gamma-raydosage.The rem takes into account therelative biologic effectiveness ofionizing radiation.
remanence
rembrandtn/ SremTbrant /D namea dark grayish brown that is slightlyless strong than average chocolatebrown.The color rembrandt is similar tothe dark backgrounds of paintingsby the artist of the same name.
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remedilessadj/ SremEdGlDs /L + Ecfhaving no relief or cure :irreparable.Maria’s whining can make theslightest difficulty seem remediless.
rememberv/ rDSmembE(r) /L > F > Ebring to mind again : think ofagain.Lonny could not remember the timeof his haircut appointment.
remigrant
reminder
remitment
remittent
remittitur
remnant
remonstrance
remonstrate
remontantadj/ rDSmBntFnt /Fflowering again.Gretchen bought several remontantroses for her garden.
remoran/ SremErE /Lany of a family of marine fishesthat have the front upper finmodified into a suctorial disk bymeans of which they clingespecially to other fishes.While receiving a free ride on theshark, the remora rid it of theparasites on its skin.
remorselessadj/ rDSmO(E)rslDs /L > F > E + Ecfhaving no distress arising fromguilt for past wrongs.The vandals seemed to beremorseless, for they laughed whenthe judge sentenced them.
remote
remudan/ rESmVdE /L > Spthe herd of saddle horses fromwhich are chosen those to be usedfor the day by the ranch hands : arelay of remounts.The foreman told Jorge to go to thecorral and choose another horsefrom the remuda.
remunerate
remunerativeadj/ rDSmyVnETrCZiv /Lserving to pay an equivalent for aservice, loss, or expense.The governor instituted a newprogram to help welfare recipientsinto remunerative employment.
renaladj/ SrGnFl /Lof, relating to, or involving thekidneys.Renal arteries divide into four orfive branches and enter the hilumof the kidney.
renascent
rendv/ Srend /Edivide (as a nation) into parties.The dispute over the need for a neweducational wing will probablyrend the church’s congregationpermanently.
rendition
renegaden/ SrenDTgCd /L > Span individual who rejects therestraints of law or convention.Shana wanted people to think shewas a renegade, so she dyed herhair purple.
renewal
reniformadj/ SrenETfOrm /Lresembling a mammalian kidney inshape;specifically : bean-shaped inoutline.Highest on the preschool teacher’swish list was a reniform table.
renovate
renownedadj/ rDSnaUnd /Ecelebrated.Lake Geneva is a renowned inlandsea.
renunciant
renunciatory
reparative
repartimiento
repatriate
repatriation
repeal
repeater
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repentantadj/ rDSpentFnt /Lexperiencing contrition for one’ssins together with the dedication ofoneself to the abandonment ofunworthy purposes and values andto the amendment of one’s life.When Scarlett O’Hara finallyunderstood what Rhett Butlermeant to her, she was repentant forthe many wrongs she had done him.
repercuss
repercussionn/ TrGpE(r)SkEshEn /Lan impact, action, or effect given orexerted in return : a reciprocalaction or effect.Danny kicked Raul out of the clubwithout fear of repercussion.
repetend
repetiteurn/ TrCTpCZEStEr /L > Fa singing coach; especially : onewho coaches singers in operaticroles.As part of her comeback strategy,the diva hired a famous repetiteur.
repleteadj/ rDSplGt /Lfully or abundantly provided : wellsupplied.The test preparation booklet isreplete with examples of varioustypes of questions.
replicatev/ SreplETkCt /Lduplicate, repeat.For an experiment to be consideredvalid, scientists must be able toreplicate it independently.
reposen/ rDSpPz /La state of rest.Caleb headed for the hammock,hoping he could enjoy a few hoursof much-needed repose.
representativen/ TreprDSzentEZiv /L > F > Eone that serves a constituency as amember of a governing body.Brady felt honored when he waselected to be his homeroom’srepresentative to student council.
reproachable
repugnant
repugnatorial
repulsion
reputable
reputationn/ TrepyEStCshEn /La particular character in popularestimation or ascription.The old dilapidated house had areputation for being haunted.
reputedadj/ rDSpyVZDd /Lheld in estimation.Frans hails from one of the mostreputed law firms in the state.
requesting
requisitionn/ TrekwESzishEn /La written request for something (asmaterials, supplies, or personnel)authorized but not made availableautomatically.The teacher filled out a requisitionfor the supplies to be requested ona purchase order.
requital
reredos
reresupper
rescissible
rescissionn/ rDSsizhEn /Lan act of annulling or of cancelling.Bob’s comment about his mom’srescission of his restrictions iswishful thinking.
rescissory
reservoirs
resignation
resiliently
resolutive
resolvancy
resolvev/ rDSzBlv /Lfind an answer to, clear up, orsuccessfully deal with.Blair’s role as a professionalmediator is to resolve disputesbetween two or more parties.
resonantadj/ Srez(F)nEnt /Lcontinuing or capable of continuingto sound.Rory marveled at the resonant toneof the church bells.
resorcinoln/ rDzSOrsDTnOl /(L + It? + Lcf + L?) > ISVa soluble crystalline acidiccompound obtained from variousresins or artificially and usedespecially in making dyes,pharmaceuticals, and resins.Resorcinol is now commonly usedin making adhesives for wood.
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resort
resourcefulnessn/ rGSsP(E)rsfElnDs /L > F + Ecfffertility in devising ways andmeans.Ingmarie’s resourcefulness madeup for her lack of artisticexperience.
respectable
respirometern/ TrespESrBmEZE(r) /L + Gkan instrument for studying thecharacter and extent of theconsumption of oxygen.Eggs and seeds have been studiedusing a respirometer.
resplendent
responsible
restaurantn/ SreTstrBnt /L > Fan establishment whererefreshments or meals may beprocured by the public : a publiceating house.Health inspectors visited Nellie’srestaurant three times before theywould allow it to reopen.
resurgency
resurrectv/ TrezESrekt /L > Eraise from the dead : restore to life.Emily hopes to resurrect the plansfor the Junior-Senior Banquet.
resurrectedv/ TrezESrekZDd /Lbrought to view, attention, or useagain.Martha made a dessert from aresurrected recipe in a newspaperclipping from the 19th century.
resuscitableadj/ rDSsEsEZEbEl /Lcapable of being revived fromapparent death or fromunconsciousness.The rescued swimmer wasunconscious but consideredresuscitable.
retainer
retaliate
retaliator
retaliatory
reticent
retinitis
retortsn pl/ rDStO(E)rts /Lquick sharp witty cutting or severereplies.Alison’s retorts quickly got on Mrs.Turner’s nerves.
retributive
retrieval
retrocedev/ TretrESsGd /Lgive back (a territory orjurisdiction) usually by treaty.In 1783 Great Britain agreed toretrocede to Spain all the territorythat Spain had turned over to GreatBritain in 1763.
retrogradeadj/ SretrETgrCd /Lmoving, directed, or tending in abackward direction.The soldiers fought a retrogradeaction.
retroussage
revehent
revelatoryadj/ rDSvelETtPrG /Lserving to disclose something (ascharacter or conditions).Revelatory interviews with gangmembers brought to light theirgoals, routines, and mentality.
revelrous
revelryn/ SrevElrG /Eboisterous merrymaking.The revelry at campaignheadquarters began after thearrival of the winning candidate.
revendicatev/ rDSvendETkCt /L > Frecover by a formal demand forrestoration.After German reunification, manywho had emigrated to the Westduring the Cold War attempted torevendicate their former homes.
reverberance
reviewv/ rGSvyV /F[has homonym: revue] study anew.Isidora did not have time to reviewher lecture notes before the exam.
revision
revisory
revivalist
revivifier
revolutionn/ TrevESlVshEn /Lcompletion by a celestial body ofan orbit or elliptic course.The year is defined as the time ittakes for Earth to make onerevolution around the Sun.
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revolver
revolving
revuist
revulsion
reward
rhabdoidadj/ SrabTdOid /Gk + Gk > Ecfshaped like a rod.Tests indicated that Jeremy had arhabdoid tumor in his kidney.
rhadamanthineadj/ TradESman(t)thDn /Gk namerigorously just.Though the students did not alwayslike Mrs. Moss’s decisions, theyrespected her rhadamanthinejudgment.
rhagadiform
rhapsodicadj/ rapSsBdik /Gkextravagantly emotional :rapturous.The singer grew rhapsodic as hesang of the virtues of his beloved.
rhapsodize
rhapsody
rhathymia
rheostatic
rhesusn/ SrGsEs /Gk > La pale brown Asian monkey oftenused in medical research.A rhesus was the first monkey to berocketed into the stratosphere.
rhetorical
rhetoricallyadv/ rDStOrDk(E)lG /Gk + Ecffin a manner using the art ofexpressive speech or discourse.Susan threw up her hands andasked rhetorically what wouldhappen to her next.
rheumn/ SrVm /Gk[has homonym: room] a waterydischarge from the mucousmembranes especially of the eyesor nose.Catarrhs and colds are marked byrheum as well as other symptoms.
rhinaladj/ SrInFl /Gkof or relating to the nose.The rhinal cavity lies between thecranium and the roof of the mouthand extends from the nostrils to thepharynx.
rhinencephalonn/ TrInTDnSsefETlBn /Gkthe anterior inferior part of theforebrain that is chiefly concernedwith the sense of smell.An electrode was inserted into therhinencephalon during theexperiment.
rhinologic
rhinoplasty
rhinorrhagian/ TrInESrCj(G)E /Gk > Lnosebleed.After the fifth round the boxer hadto be treated for rhinorrhagia.
rhinoscopy
rhinotracheitis
rhizomatousadj/ rISzBmEZEs /Gk > Lhaving the characteristics of orresembling a somewhat elongateusually horizontal subterraneanplant stem.Canna, certain types of iris, and thecalla lily are all rhizomatous.
rhizome
rhodopsinn/ rPSdBpsDn /Gk + Gka red photosensitive pigment in theretinal rods of marine fishes andmost higher vertebrates that isimportant for vision in dim light.A deficiency of vitamin A results ina loss of rhodopsin and could leadto night blindness.
rhonchusn/ SrBNkEs /Gk > La whistling or snoring sound heardon auscultation of the chest whenthe air channels are partlyobstructed.When the doctor detected arhonchus with his stethoscope, hesuspected pneumonia.
rhyparography
rhythmicadj/ SriLmik /Gkmarked by pronounced rhythm :regularly recurrent.The rhythmic movements of thewaltz were very soothing to Laurieafter dancing the mashed potato.
rhythmical
rhytidome
rhyton
ria
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riantadj/ SrIEnt /Lpleasingly mirthful.The riant hostess spread goodcheer from guest to guestthroughout the evening.
ribaldry
ribbon
ricketiness
rickey
riddle
riddling
ridiculosity
ridiculouslyadv/ rDSdikyElEslG /L > Fin an absurd, laughable, orpreposterous manner.The professor was ridiculouslyabsent-minded and became the buttof many jokes.
rifamycin
riffraff
righteousness
rightfully
rigidify
rimosely
rimuloseadj/ SrimyETlPs /Lhaving small chinks or fissures.With a magnifying glass therimulose structure of the lichenbecame apparent.
rimy
rinceau
rind
rinderpest
ringent
ringleader
rinse
riot
rioter
riotous
ripplingadj/ Srip(E)liN /Flemish?having a fretted or highly ruffledsurface.The rippling stream held plenty oftrout, beaver, and crayfish.
ripsnorter
riptide
risibles
risorgimenton/ (T)rGTsO(r)jDSmen(T)tP /L > Ita time of renewal or renaissance :revival.During the Victorian Age theEnglish novel experienced arisorgimento.
ritardandoadv/ TrGTtBrSdBn(T)dP /L > Itwith a gradual slackening in tempo.“Again! You must play thatpassage ritardando,” the conductorexhorted.
ritualn/ Srich(E)wEl /Lthe forms of conducting adevotional service especially asestablished by tradition : theprescribed order and words of areligious ceremony.The Passover seder is filled withspoken ritual and symbolic foods.
ritualistic
ritzy
rivallessadj/ SrIvEl(l)Ds /L + Ecfbeing without a competitive equal.The young Russian couple wasconsidered rivalless in the world ofice dancing.
riverbank
rivetn/ SrivDt /F > Ea headed pin or bolt of somemalleable material used for unitingtwo or more pieces.Mr. Churchill placed a rivet inMrs. Bates’s spectacles, whichhave never been at fault since.
rivieran/ TrivGSerE /L > F > Mediterranean geog namea coastline much frequented as aresort area and usually having amild climate.Students flocked to the Floridariviera during spring break.
roadster
robberyn/ SrBb(E)rG /F > Ethe act of stealing by violence orthreat of violence.The FBI was called in to help solvethe armored car robbery.
robust
rocketry
roguery
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roguishadj/ SrPgish /unknowndishonest, unprincipled.The roguish salesman tried toconvince Barbara that the car wasin perfect condition.
roguishly
roister
rollicking
romaine
romantic
romeon/ SrPmGTP /Shakespearean namea man’s slipper or shoe with a highbacking quarter, high front, andusually U-shaped elastic gores atthe sides.The romeo on display was made ofone piece of black felt.
rondeaun/ SrBn(T)dP /F[has homonym: rondo] a fixedform of verse usually of 15 lines.Shona sat up half the nightpolishing the rondeau she wouldread the next day aloud to theclass.
rookeryn/ SrUkErG /F > Ea breeding ground or commonhaunt of gregarious birds oranimals (as rooks, herons,penguins, or seals); also : a colonyof such birds or animals.Construction of the factory willjeopardize the rookery.
roquen/ SrPk /Fcroquet played on a hard-surfacedcourt having a raised border used asa cushion in bank shots.The city athletic club allowsmembers to play roque on the roof.
rorqualn/ SrOrkwEl /ON > Norw > Fany of a family of large baleenwhales (as a blue whale orhumpback whale) having the skinof the throat marked with deeplongitudinal furrows.A rorqual filters its food out of thewater by means of baleen platesgrowing down from the roof of itsmouth.
rosaceousadj/ rPSzCshEs /Lof, relating to, or resembling a rose,especially in having a five-petaledregular corolla.Apple, pear, peach, and cherrytrees have rosaceous blossoms.
roseateadj/ SrPzGDt /Loverly optimistic or pleasing.The commentator seemed roseateas he predicted a quick end to thestrike.
roseleaf
roserootn/ SrPzTrVt /Gk > L > E + ON > Ea perennial fleshy herb whosesubterranean parts have a floralodor.Lorna planted roseroot along thesidewalk.
rosette
rosinante
rosorial
rotatable
rote
rottweilern/ SrBtTwITlE(r) /G geog namea dog of the breed of tall vigorousblack cattle dogs having short hair,tan or brown markings, a short tail,and small drooping ears.Sam’s rottweiler was an imposingguard dog.
rotunda
roturier
rouleaun/ rVSlP /F[Note: Plural form can bepronounced identically.] a roll ofcoins put up in paper.Rhea counted her dimes and foundthat she had enough for a rouleau.
rounce
roundaboutadj/ SraUndETbaUt /E + Edeviating from a straight line orcourse.The storm forced the pilot to take aroundabout path.
roundletn/ SraUndlDt /F > Ea 15th-century hat for men with around padded edge and loosedrapery forming the crown andhanging over the edge.Fashionable men in the mid-15thcentury wore pleated, fur-trimmedtunics, fitted hose, and on theirheads, the roundlet.
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roundstersn pl/ SraUn(d)ztE(r)z /E + Ecffthe privilege in marbles of shootingfrom any point on the ring line.If your shooter goes outside thering line, you may take roundsters.
rousev/ SraUz /Ekindle to intensity : excite, inflame.The producer of the documentaryon poverty hopes to rouse passionamong many viewers for the longterm.
rousing
roussette
rout
route
routinen/ rVStGn /Fa standardized piece ofentertainment or showmanship;specifically : a theatrical number.An emcee introduced each routinein the variety show.
routinely
routinize
rouxn/ SrV /F[has homonyms: roo, rue] amixture of flour and fat cookedsometimes until the flour brownsand used to thicken soups andsauces.After deglazing the pan with whitewine, Graham added a roux madeof flour and butter.
rowdyism
royale
royalty
rubblen/ SrEbEl /Ebroken fragments of stone andother matter resulting from thedecay or destruction of a building.The unkempt man sitting on a pileof rubble is a reporter who is doinga feature story on the homeless.
rube
rubescent
rubicelle
Rubiconn/ SrVbETkBn /La bounding or limiting line;especially : one that when crossedcommits a person to an irrevocablechange or decision.Alta put off choosing a collegemajor because she felt that to do sowould be crossing the Rubicon.
rubify
rubricatedv/ SrVbrETkCZDd /Lprovided with a headingdistinguished by being done in acolor (as red) different from the restof the text or by some other device.Mr. Byas was certain that therubricated manuscript was writtenby Celia, an especially creativestudent.
rubrofugal
ructionn/ SrEkshEn /L?a noisy rough-and-tumble fight.A fierce ruction broke out in theangry crowd, and the police had tointervene.
ruddyadj/ SrEdG /Ehaving or marked by a reddishcolor associated with the glow ofgood health or a suffusion of blood(as from exercise, excitement,exposure).Working in the sugarcane fieldshas given Caleb a ruddycomplexion.
rudenture
rudimentsn pl/ SrVdEmEnts /Lfundamental skills taught or learned(as in an elementary school).Reading, writing, and arithmeticare the rudiments of elementaryschool education.
ruedv/ SrVd /E[has homonyms: rood, rude] feltregret for.How many a man has committedhimself on a short acquaintanceand rued it all the rest of his life!ruefuladj/ SrVfEl /Efeeling or expressing sorrow or pity: mournful.Grandpa grew a bit rueful as herecalled the missed opportunities ofhis life.
rufescentadj/ rVSfesFnt /Lreddish.Minga decided to apply moresunscreen to her shoulders whenshe saw how rufescent they looked.
ruffianize
ruffianly
ruffled
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ruggedadj/ SrEgDd /Scand > Eharsh, ungentle.The welder’s rugged demeanorbelied his warm heart.
rumfustian
runicadj/ SrVnik /ON&E + Ecfrelating to an alphabet of angularcharacters used for inscriptions andmagic signs by the Germanicpeoples from about the 3rd to the13th centuries and especially by theScandinavians and Anglo-Saxons.Runic research in the ’30s and ’40swas so tainted by Nazi ideologythat the information from thisperiod is considered useless to anyserious student of Teutonic lore.
rupicolousadj/ rVSpikElEs /L + Lliving among, inhabiting, orgrowing on rocks.The crayfish is a rupicolouscrustacean.
rustication
rustlingn/ SrEs(E)liN /E[has near homonym: wrestling] thestealing of cattle.When the sheriff was informedabout the rustling, he assembled aposse to round up the thieves.
rutherfordn/ SrELE(r)fE(r)d /E namea unit strength of a radioactivesource corresponding to 1 milliondisintegrations per second.Avery could easily calculateradioactive strength to the nearestrutherford, but it was difficult forhim to conceive just how fast 1million disintegrations per secondreally was.
ruthful
ruthlessadj/ SrVthlDs /Emerciless, pitiless.Thomas was ruthless in the honestywith which he declared hisopinions.
rutile
ruttedadj/ SrEtDd /F?having or marked by tracks wornby a wheel or by habitual passageof anything.He guided them along one of fivenarrow ledges, all of which led to agrooved and rutted plateau.
rye
sabinn/ SsCbDn /Am name[Note: Alternate pronunciation hashomonym: sabine.] a unit ofacoustic absorption equivalent tothe absorption by 1 square foot of aperfect absorber (as an openwindow).In sound absorption, calculationsmeasured by the sabin,reverberation time, and volume ofthe room are critical factors.
sabotn/ saSbP /Fa wooden work shoe worn invarious European countries.An ill-fitting sabot can causepainful blisters.
saccharimeter
saccharine
saccharinityn/ TsakESrinEZG /Skt > Pali > Gk > L+ Ecfthe quality or state of being sweet :sweetness.Amy said that she couldn’t finishher chocolate dessert because itssaccharinity was too much for hertaste.
saccharoid
sackbut
sackcloth
sacrament
sacredadj/ SsCkrDd /Ldevoted exclusively to the serviceor use (as of a particular person,purpose, or group).The fund organizers promised thatall the monies collected would besacred to charity.
sacrilegious
sacristann/ SsakrDstEn /Lan officer of a church in charge ofthe room where the sacred utensilsand vestments are kept.The sacristan counted thecommunion plates at the end of theservice and stacked them on ashelf.
sadiron
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sadistic
safeguardn/ SsCfTgBrd /F > Ea means of protection againstsomething undesirable.The police wore bulletproof vestsas a safeguard against terroristattacks.
saffian
sagan/ SsBgE /ONan episodic story centering about ausually heroic figure of earlierages.Rubin traced the motif to a 13thcentury Icelandic saga.
sagelyadv/ SsCjlG /L > F > Ein a wise or prudent manner.Vera invested her savings sagely.
saigan/ SsIgE /Jagatai > Russa sheeplike antelope of Siberia andeastern Russia having ringed hornsand tufts of long hair beneath theeyes and ears.The most outstanding feature of thesaiga is its swollen snout withdownward-directed nostrils.
sailboat
sala
salariat
salaryn/ Ssal(E)rG /Lfixed compensation paid regularlyfor services.When Henrik switched over to asalary, he earned less than when hewas paid by the hour.
saliferousadj/ sESlif(E)rEs /Lproducing, impregnated with, orcontaining salt.The tour guide recommended thatthe tourists resist the urge to tastethe saliferous formations in themine.
sallowadj/ Ssa(T)lP /Eof a grayish greenish yellow colorsuggesting sickliness—usually usedof the skin or complexion.Neil’s lethargy and sallow skinalarmed his mother.
saloon
saltatoryadj/ SsaltETtPrG /Lof or relating to dancing.Tiffany, dressed in her new leotard,took a few saltatory steps aroundthe living room.
saltcellar
saltimboccan/ TsOltimSbB(k)kE /Itscallops of veal prepared with sage,slices of ham, and sometimescheese and served with a winesauce.Connor took a second serving ofsaltimbocca from the buffet.
saltire
salubrious
salutatoriann/ sETlVZEtPrGEn /L + Ecfthe graduating student who isusually second highest in rank andwho in some institutions deliversthe salutatory oration.No one was more surprised thanSharonne when she was namedsalutatorian of her class.
salute
salvageableadj/ SsalvijEbEl /L > F + Ecfcapable of being rescued or savedespecially from wreckage or ruin.After the tornado hit theirneighborhood, the residentsreturned to look for anythingsalvageable.
samara
sameness
sanative
sanatory
sanctimony
sanctuary
sandbar
sandhi
sane
sanglier
sangria
saniclen/ SsanDkEl /L > F > E[has near homonyms: cenacle,cynical] any of several plantsreputed to have healing powers.A sanicle by the name of “blacksnakeroot” yields a drug that isused to treat St. Vitus’s dance.
sanity
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Santerian/ TsanteSrGE /AmerSpa religion practiced originally inCuba.Santeria identifies Yoruba deitieswith Roman Catholic saints.
sapajoun/ SsapETjV /Tupi > Fa long-tailed South Americanmonkey with the hair on its crownresembling a monk’s cowl—calledalso “capuchin.”Some zoologists believe that thesapajou is the most intelligent ofthe New World monkeys.
sapient
sapling
saponifyv/ sESpBnETfI /L > Fconvert (as a fat or fatty acid) intosoap.The chart indicated that 12 ouncesof lye would completely saponify anounce of the fat in question.
saponinn/ SsapEnDn /L > Fany of numerous glycosides thatoccur in many plants (as soapbark,soapwort) that are characterized bytheir properties of foaming inwater.The hiker found some soapbark,pounded it underwater with a rockto release the saponin, and used theresulting suds for a satisfying bath.
sapphirine
sappy
sapremia
saprogenic
saprophytic
sarcastic
sarcolysisn/ sBrSkBlEsDs /Gkthe disintegration or dissolution ofmuscular tissue.Examination of the patient’s heartrevealed areas of advancedsarcolysis.
sarcoman/ sBrSkPmE /Gka malignant tumor arising inconnective tissue and especially inbone, cartilage, or striated muscle.The sarcoma in Pat’s arm wastreated early enough to preventserious impairment.
sarcophilous
sardonicallyadv/ TsBrSdBnDk(E)lG /Gk > Fin a manner characterized byderision or scorn : with an attitudedisdainfully or skepticallyhumorous.Nancy remarked sardonically thatthe best economic situation for thecountry would be a major war.
Sardoodledomn/ sBrSdVdFldEm /F namemechanically contrived plotstructure and stereotyped orunrealistic characterization indrama : melodrama.Excellent acting and directingmasked the play’s Sardoodledom.
sarrusophone
sashimin/ SsBshEmG /Jpnraw fish served as an appetizer andusually accompanied by acondiment.At the reception, waiters in blacktie passed trays of sashimi andother hors d’oeuvres.
Sasquatchn/ SsasTkwBch /Halkomelema large hairy humanlike creaturethat is reported to exist in thenorthwestern United States andwestern Canada—called also“bigfoot.”Periodically, someone reports thatthey have seen Sasquatch.
satisfactorily
satisfy
satorin/ sEStPrG /Jpnsudden enlightenment and a state ofconsciousness attained by intuitiveillumination representing thespiritual goal of Zen Buddhism.The primary method of achievingsatori is through the use of koans—riddles that enhance meditation.
saturator
Saturniann/ sEStErnGEn /La hypothetical inhabitant of theplanet Saturn.A Saturnian was the villain inMargaret’s story about life inspace.
saturnism
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saultn/ SsV /L > F > E[has homonyms: Sioux, sou, sue] afall or rapid in a river.The canoeists, taken by surprise,barely made it through the sault.
sauna
saunteredv/ SsOntE(r)d /Ewalked about idly and in a leisurelymanner.Count von Saurau sauntered alongthe shore with not a care in theworld.
saurophagous
sauterelle
savagelyadv/ SsavijlG /Ein a ferocious manner.Nora struck her father savagelywith her little fists.
savant
sawdust
sawyer
saxifragen/ SsaksEfrij /La member of a genus of plants withshowy five-part flowers and usuallywith leaves growing in tufts closeto the ground.Many types of saxifrage grow wellin rocky alpine soil.
saxifragous
scabbling
scabrid
scaffolding
scagliolan/ skalSyPlE /Gmc > Itan imitation of ornamental marbleused for floors, columns, and otherornamental interior work.After a few years the scagliola inthe hotel lobby began to lookshabby.
scalable
scalare
scalariform
scaldv/ SskOld /L > F > Ebring (a liquid) to a temperaturejust below the boiling point.To make perfect cocoa, first scaldthe milk.
scalded
scalepan
scallion
scalper
scanty
scapegoat
scarabaeiformadj/ TskarESbGETfOrm /L + Eresembling a family of stout-bodiedbeetles of subsocial habits (as thetumblebugs).One or more scarabaeiform beetleswere regarded by the ancientEgyptians as symbolic ofresurrection and immortality.
scarcely
scathelessadj/ SskCLlDs /ON > E[Note: Speller might confuse firstcomponent with scath.] beingwithout injury or damage :unharmed.Fortunately, the Wagner familysurvived the earthquake scatheless.
scattered
scavenger
scenarist
scene
scenery
schapping
schedule
schematic
schematically
schlossn/ SshlOs /Ga German castle or manor house.Gretchen and Anders returned tothe schloss after a hard day ofskiing.
schnauzer
schneidern/ SshnIdE(r) /Gfailure of the loser of a game of ginrummy to score any point.If the loser has failed to score, thegame is a shutout, or schneider,and the winner’s total score isdoubled.
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scholarn/ SskBlE(r) /Gk[has near homonym: sculler] onewho has engaged in advanced studyand acquired the minutiae ofknowledge in some special fieldalong with accuracy and skill ininvestigation and powers of criticalanalysis in interpretation of suchknowledge.Darlene’s goal is to be a renownedShakespeare scholar.
scholarship
scholastic
scholium
schooln/ SskVl /Gk > L > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] a largenumber of one kind of fish or otheraquatic animals swimming orfeeding together.A school of dolphins surfacedalongside the yacht andaccompanied it for about fiveminutes.
schuyt
scissel
scissile
sclerodermatousadj/ TsklirPSdErmEZEs /Gk + Gkhaving a hard external covering (asof bony plates or horny scales).The armadillo is a good example ofa sclerodermatous animal.
scobiform
scoff
scopolaminen/ skESpBlETmGn /It name + G > ISVan alkaloid occurring in certainplants that is used in the preventionof motion sickness.Cindy took scopolamine before thelong car trip.
scorched
scordatura
scorekeeper
scornfullyadv/ SskO(E)rnfElG /Gmc > F > E + Ecffcontemptuously, disdainfully.When Ken complained that he wastoo tired to continue playing, theothers scornfully called him a“baby.”scorpion
scotoma
scoundrelly
scourgedv/ SskErjd /L > F > Esubjected to severe criticism orsatire.Even Tom’s friends found hiscampaign speech, which scourgedthe school administration,inappropriate.
scramasax
scrapen/ SskrCp /ON > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] a bareplace or hollow made by scratchingor digging.Carrie watched in awe as a doeand four baby rabbits emergedfrom a scrape.
scraper
scrapie
scrawl
screen/ SskrG /Scanda heap of stones or rocky debrislying on a slope or at the base of acliff.The climbing instructor cleared theslope of scree before allowing thenovices to begin their ascent.
screwdriver
scribblative
scribbled
scribe
scrimpyadj/ SskrimpG /Scandsmall or barely sufficient in size orquantity.The living room was too scrimpyfor a couch.
scripophilyn/ skriSpBfElG /L + Gka collection of old stock and bondcertificates.The rarest item in Jill’s scripophilyis a General Motors stockcertificate from 1918.
scripture
scrivenery
scrobiculateadj/ skrPSbikyETlDt /Lhaving numerous shallow groovesor depressions : pitted.A golf ball is scrobiculate.
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scrofulousadj/ SskrOfyElEs /Lhaving a diseased run-downappearance.The mayoral candidate promised torehabilitate the city’s scrofulousneighborhoods.
scrounge
scrubbing
scrumptiously
scruple
scrutable
scrutinyn/ SskrVt(F)nG /La searching study or inquiry :investigation.Close scrutiny revealed that thenew edition of the textbook was notsignificantly different from the oldedition.
scuba
scuddedv/ SskEdEd /Scand?moved or ran swiftly especially asif driven forward.Behind the trees, clouds scuddedfrantically across the sky.
scullionn/ SskElyEn /L > F > Ea kitchen helper.Dru’s first job was working as ascullion in a local restaurant.
scumblev/ SskEmbEl /D > Esoften the lines or colors of (adrawing) by rubbing lightly (aswith a finger).The art teacher showed herstudents how to scumble an area ofcanvas to achieve a softer effect.
scurried
scurviness
scutagen/ SskyVZij /La tax or fine levied against one whodoes not render required militaryservice.The young man resolved to pay thescutage rather than join the duke’sarmy.
scuttle
Scyllan/ SsilE /Gk namea destructive peril—usually used asthe alternative to Charybdis.With no good outcome possible,Chester found himself caughtbetween Scylla and Charybdis.
scythestonen/ SsILTstPn /E + Ea whetstone for sharpening ascythe.The scythestone was cut from afine-grained porous sandstone.
seagirt
searinglyadv/ SsiEriNlG /E + Ecfin a manner causing withering ordrying.The noonday sun blazed searinglyon the withered corn.
seaweed
seaworthiness
secant
secesh
secluded
seclusive
secrecyn/ SsGkrEsG /L > Ethe habit or practice of maintainingprivacy or concealment.Secrecy seems to be inherent ingovernment administration.
secret
secretary
secrete
secretory
secretum
sectn/ Ssekt /La group within an organizedreligion whose adherents recognizea special set of teachings orpractices.The Dead Sea Scrolls were writtenby a Jewish sect that split from themainstream over matters ofsacrifices and ritual purity.
sectator
secular
secured
sedan
sedate
sedative
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sederuntn/ sDSdirEnt /La prolonged sitting (as forrelaxation, reading, or discussion).The seat under the vine trellis isMark and Linda’s favorite placefor an evening sederunt.
seemingly
seepage
segetal
segment
segmentateadj/ SsegmEnTtCt /Lcomposed of constituent parts intowhich a body is or may be divided :section, division.The segmentate abdomen of aninsect may have as many as 11divisions.
segno
segregable
segregate
seidel
seigneurn/ sCnSyEr /L > F[has near homonyms: saner,senior, senor] a lord or gentleman.Phillip’s expensive clothes andimposing personality gave him theair of a grand seigneur.
seismic
seize
seized
sejunction
seleniumn/ sDSlGnGEm /Gka nonmetallic toxic element that isrelated to sulfur and tellurium andresembles them chemically.Selenium is used chiefly as apigment and in photoelectric cells,rectifiers, and other electronicdevices.
selfish
selflessadj/ SselflDs /Ehaving no concern for self.Gail’s selfless actions during theflood earned her the gratitude of allher neighbors.
semainiern/ sESmen(T)yC /L > Fa tall chest with seven drawers foruse in a bedroom or dressing room.Sylvia purchased an antiquesemainier and used it for storingher hosiery and undergarments.
semantic
semanticist
semanticsn pl/ sDSmantiks /Gk > Fthe study dealing with the relationsbetween signs and what they referto, the relations between the signsof a system, and human behavior inreaction to signs.A student survey revealed that thetopic of body language was themost interesting aspect of thecourse in semantics.
semblance
semicircle
seminarn/ SsemETnBr /La group of advanced studentsstudying a subject under aprofessor, each doing some originalresearch, and all exchanging resultsby informal lectures, reports, anddiscussions.Competition for acceptance in thespy novel seminar was intense.
semioticsn pl/ TseTmGSBZiks /Gka general philosophical theory ofsigns and symbols that dealsespecially with their function inboth artifically constructed andnatural languages.Dr. Perry’s paper on semiotics waswell received at the linguisticsseminar.
semitropicaladj/ TsemGStrBpDkEl /L + Gk > L + Ecfof, relating to, or being the regionsbordering on the tropical zone.The Conways are planning tospend their retirement years insemitropical Florida.
sempiternal
semplice
senatorial
senescing
senilityn/ sDSnilEZG /Lthe loss of mental facultiesassociated with old age.Grandpa Wilson’s confused mentalstate and lapses of memory weretaken to be signs of encroachingsenility.
senium
sensation
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sensational
sensile
sensitometer
sensorium
sensuous
sentimentality
separabilityn/ Tsep(E)rESbilEZG /Lthe quality or state of being capableof being detached or disassociated.One of the most widely heldreligious beliefs is the separabilityof the soul from the body.
separation
separatory
sepiment
septennate
septicadj/ Sseptik /Gkcharacterized by or producingbacterial decomposition.Septic action takes place at thebottom of a septic tank.
septicentennial
septifragal
Septuagintn/ sepSt(y)VEjDnt /La Greek translation of the JewishScriptures prepared in the third andsecond centuries B.C. by about 70Jewish scholars.The Septuagint was intended tosatisfy the needs of the Greek-speaking Jews of Egypt whoseknowledge of Hebrew wasinadequate.
septumn/ SseptEm /Lthe bony and cartilaginous partitionbetween the nasal passages.Morris complained of a sharp painin his septum.
sequiturn/ SsekwDZE(r) /Lan inference that follows from apremise.Given that there is no water onMars, a sequitur that can be drawnis that on Mars there is no life aswe know it.
sequoia
serendipityn/ TserDnSdipEZG /Ar geog namean assumed gift for findingvaluable or agreeable things notsought for.In the movie Paris When it Sizzles,Audrey Hepburn’s characterdefines serendipity as “waking upin the morning and seeing there’s awhole new day and goingabsolutely ape.”serenelyadv/ sDSrGnlG /L + Ecfin a calm or peaceful manner.The balloon ride was serenelysmooth.
serenityn/ sDSrenEZG /Lthe quality or state of being calm orpeaceful.Nothing ruffled the serenity of herexpression.
serialn/ SsirGEl /L[has homonym: cereal] a motionpicture or radio or television playpresented in a number ofsuccessive installments orcontinued indefinitely.Mom has for years been a devoteeof the serial Days of Our Lives.
sericulturen/ SserETkElchE(r) /L + Ethe production of raw silk byraising silkworms.About A.D. 550 two Persian monkssmuggled silkworms out of Chinain their hollow bamboo canes, andsericulture was begun inConstantinople.
seriousadj/ SsirGEs /L > F[has homonyms: cereous, Cereus]grave in disposition, appearance, ormanner.Even the perennially seriousclergyman showed somelightheartedness at the churchpicnic.
seriously
serotoninn/ TsirEStPnDn /L + La brain chemical that serves as aneurotransmitter, the lack of whichmay cause depression.In animal studies, scientistsdiscovered that low serotonin levelsmay be associated with impulsiveor risky behavior.
serpentarium
serpentile
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serpentineadj/ SsErpEnTtGn /Lwinding or turning one way andanother.All the tourists love to drive downthe steep serpentine street.
sertulumn/ SsErchElEm /La collection of scientifically studiedplants.The health food experts designed asertulum of all cruciferousvegetables.
servaln/ SsErvEl /L > Pg > F[has homonym: servile] a long-legged African wildcat having largeears and a tawny black-spottedcoat.The serval is a nocturnal hunter,preying on birds, rodents, andhares.
servant
servicen/ SsErvDs /L > F > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] the actof putting the ball in play in any ofvarious net or court games (astennis).Serena foot-faulted twice duringthe service.
servitor
servomotorn/ SsEr(T)vPTmPZEr /La power-driven mechanism thatsupplements a primary controloperated by a comparatively feebleforce.The servomotor that powersSassan’s toy robot burns outfrequently.
sesame
sesamoidadj/ SsesETmOid /Gkof, relating to, or being a nodularmass of bone or cartilage in atendon especially where the tendonpasses over a joint or some bonyprominence.The doctor decided that thesesamoid mass was not impairingthe use of Maria’s elbow and didnot need to be surgically removed.
sesquilateral
sessileadj/ SsesEl /Lpermanently attached : not free tomove about.Sea anemones are sessile and mustwait for their food to come to them.
sestonn/ SseTstBn /Gk > Gminute material moving in waterand including both livingorganisms (as plankton and nekton)and nonliving matter (as plantdebris or suspended soil particles).The high concentration of seston inthe lagoon gave it a cloudyappearance.
setan/ SsGZE /Lany of numerous slender typicallyrigid or bristly and springy parts ofanimals or plants.The microscope made each seta onthe body of the caterpillar standout.
setaceous
setigerous
setscrew
settee
settleable
settlement
settlersn pl/ SseZFlE(r)z /Ethose who first move into a newregion : colonists.The settlers sat about on thewooden sidewalks in the little townand complained about the land andthe weather.
severaladj/ Ssev(E)rEl /L > F > Econsisting of an indefinite numbermore than two and fewer thanmany usually of the same class orgroup.The grade distribution on the finalexam was two A’s, several B’s, andone C.
severeadj/ sDSvi(E)r /Lstrict or uncompromising injudgment, discipline, orgovernment.Archibald’s temper was severe andarbitrary.
sevillanan/ TsCvG(l)SyBnE /Spthe seguidilla as played or dancedin Seville.As a child, Margarita learned todance the sevillana.
sexagenarian
sextantn/ SsekstEnt /Lan instrument for measuringaltitudes of celestial bodies from amoving ship.Chaucer was an expert in the use ofthe sextant.
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sfumaton/ sfVSmB(T)tP /L > Itthe definition of form withoutabrupt outline by delicate gradationfrom light to shadow.The museum guide pointed outLeonardo’s use of sfumato.
shabbiness
shadowyadj/ SshadEwG /Efleeting, imaginary, unsubstantial.Rob awoke to see a shadowy figurerecede into his closet.
shaggy
shaky
shamann/ SshBmEn /Russ or Tungusa priest-doctor who uses magic tocure the sick, to divine the hidden,and to control events that affect thewelfare of the people.The modern-day shaman is acommunity healer.
shamateurism
shameful
shapely
shavetail
Shavianadj/ SshCvGEn /Latinized Eof, relating to, or characteristic ofthe British writer George BernardShaw or his writings.Lucinda’s acting in the role of aShavian heroine amazed herparents.
sheath
sheathing
sheepishly
sheldrake
shellacking
shepherd
shiatsun/ shGSBt(T)sV /Jpna massage with the fingers appliedto those specific areas of the bodyused in acupuncture.Ramona’s acupuncturistrecommended regular sessions ofshiatsu to keep her neck musclesrelaxed.
shield
shimmery
shinev/ SshIn /Eemit rays of light.In the mountains the stars shinebrighter than they ever do in thecity.
Shinton/ SshinTtP /Jpnthe indigenous religion of Japancharacterized by the reverence ofdeified nature spirits and sprits ofancestors and its great antiquity butlack of an historical founder ororganized teachings.The sun goddess is regarded as thechief deity of Shinto.
shipmate
shipyard
shirr
shirringn/ SshEriN /unknowna decorative gathering of materialas at the top of a drapery.Rachel was happy to see that hernew sewing machine had anattachment for creating shirring.
shoaly
shoddiness
shoddyadj/ SshBdG /unknownemploying, consisting of, or madeby hasty or unsound methods.The nuclear reactor will be put online despite rumors of shoddyconstruction.
shogin/ SshPgG /JpnJapanese chess played on a boardof 81 squares with 40 pieces to theset.Alexander’s grandparents like toplay shogi on the handmade setthey bought in Kyoto.
shogunate
shojin/ SshPjG /Jpna paper screen serving as a wall,partition, or sliding door.Teruko bought a beautifully paintedshoji for her mother.
shoofly
shoplifter
shortsighted
shovel
shovellike
showeryadj/ SshaU(E)rG /Eabounding with frequent showersof rain.November turned out to be adismally cold and showery month.
shredder
shrewd
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shrewishadj/ SshrVish /Eresembling or having thecharacteristics of an ill-tempered,scolding woman.Because Della is naturally ill-tempered, she had no difficultyacting the part of the shrewishneighbor.
shrillness
shroff
shroud
shrubberyn/ SshrEb(E)rG /Ea growth of low usually several-stemmed woody plants : hedge.When the child had passed throughthe gate in the shrubbery, she foundherself in great gardens.
shuttle
shuttlecockn/ SshEZFlTkBk /E + Ea feathered object with a roundedbase that is volleyed back and forthwith rackets in badminton.With a quick flick of her wrist,Jenna sent the shuttlecock flyingacross the net.
shyster
sialic
sialoidadj/ SsIETlOid /Gk > Lresembling saliva.The many snails in the garden haveleft a map of sialoid trails acrossthe walkway.
siamangn/ SsGETmaN /Malaya black gibbon of Sumatra that isthe largest of the gibbons and hasthe second and third toes partiallyunited by a web.A remarkable feature of thesiamang is its expandable throatsac that is used to produce aresonant, booming call.
siderography
sidewalk
sierran/ TsGSerE /L > Spa mountainous region.Mountain goats constitute thelargest animal population in thehigh sierra.
sieve
sighn/ SsI /E[has homonym: psi] a deep andprolonged audible inspiration andexpiration of air especially wheninvoluntary and expressing someemotion or feeling (as grief,yearning, weariness, or relief).The teacher’s deep sigh was a signthat she would tolerate no morenonsense.
sighingly
sight
sigillate
sigillation
sigillography
sigmatism
sigmoidadj/ SsigTmOid /Gkcurved like the letter c.The flower had a round sigmoidstem.
significance
Sikhismn/ SsGTkizEm /Skt > Hindia monotheistic religion of Indiafounded about A.D. 1500 andmarked by rejection of idolatry andcaste.The last month of the worldreligion class was devoted toSikhism.
silo
silverite
silvicolous
simian
simianity
similiter
similituden/ sDSmilETtVd /La visible likeness : image,semblance.Federal law prohibits anyone frommaking a copy or document that isa similitude of U.S. currency.
simoniacal
simonyn/ SsImEnG /Biblical namethe buying or selling of a churchoffice or ecclesiastical preferment.In the late 11th century, churchreformers railed against thepractice of simony.
simperer
simplicity
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simulatev/ SsimyETlCt /Lgive the appearance or effect of :imitate.Pegs in oak flooring simulatepioneer construction.
sincerely
sinewy
sinfoniettan/ TsinfEnSyeZE /Itan orchestral musical compositionof less than standard length or forfewer instruments.While the audience was returningto their seats we encouraged themwith a brief sinfonietta.
singev/ Ssinj /Eburn (something) superficially orlightly as to remove the hair ordown from (an animal or fowl) bypassing over a flame.Kate’s grandmother recalled thedays when her job was to singechickens after they had beenplucked.
singultus
sinister
sinistrocular
sinkhole
sinologist
siphonapterologyn/ TsIfETnaptESrBlEjG /Gk > L + Ecfa branch of entomology that isconcerned with fleas.Siphonapterology has discoveredthat the rabbit flea and the shrewflea limit their infestation to onlythe one particular host species.
sippet
siren
sireniann/ sISrGnGEn /L[has homonyms: cyrenaean,cyrenian] any of an order of aquaticherbivorous mammals includingthe manatee, dugong, and Steller’ssea cow.The future of the sirenian inFlorida is in doubt because of theincreasing boat traffic.
sish
sitcom
site
situated
sitzmark
sixsomen/ SsikTsEm /E + Ea group of six persons.The sixsome performed aninteresting roundelay of medievalorigin.
skandhas
skating
skeet
skeeter
skein
skeiner
sketchn/ Sskech /It > Da slight theatrical piece having asingle scene; especially : a comicoften burlesque variety act typicallydeveloped around a mishap andinvolving a small cast or a singleperformer.The most hilarious sketch in theshow was the one on a drivinglesson.
skeuomorphn/ SskyVETmOrf /Gkan ornament or design representinga utensil or implement.Eve’s favorite pin has askeuomorph of a garden spade andrake.
skiagramn/ SskIETgram /Gka shadowgraph made by X rays : anX-ray photograph.The breaks in Jody’s left tibia andfibula showed up clearly in theskiagram.
skiagraphy
skiffling
skimpy
skinnery
skipjack
skirreh
skull
skycapn/ SskITkap /ON > E + L > Eone who is employed to carry handluggage at an airport.Furley called for a skycap after hehad retrieved his suitcase.
skylightn/ SskITlIt /ON > E + Ethe general backgound ofillumination of the nighttime skythat includes light from bothnatural and artificial forces.The skylight was too intense in thecity to see many stars.
skyscraper
slapdashery
slatternly
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slaughter
slaughterousadj/ SslOZErEs /Scand > Eof, relating to, or characterized bymass killing and bloodshed.After the slaughterous battle theremaining invaders retreated totheir ships.
slavery
slavishadj/ SslCvish /Slav > Gk > L > F > Erequiring hard work : laborious.“A slavish concern for thecomposition of words is the sign ofa bankrupt intellect,” roared theHumbug.
sleeve
sleeveless
sleigh
slenderadj/ SslendE(r) /Enot fleshy or large of bone.Because Waldo had such a slenderbuild, he never tried on anythingbut the slim sizes when he wentclothes shopping.
slenderizev/ SslendETrIz /E + Ecfmake narrow in circumference orwidth in proportion to the length orheight.Peter used a lathe to slenderize thecandlestick.
slentando
slide
slimyadj/ SslImG /Eof, relating to, resembling, or beingslime : viscous, glutinous.Many people mistakenly think thatsnakes have slimy skin.
slingshot
slippery
slithery
slope
sluggard
smalto
smaragdineadj/ smESragdDn /Lof or relating to emerald : yellowishgreen in color like an emerald.Legend has it that Alexander theGreat found a smaragdine tabletcontaining 13 sentences consideredto be basic principles in Greekalchemy.
smarmy
smelt
smirky
smitham
smithereensn pl/ TsmiLESrGnz /IrGaelbits, fragments.Elden’s mother refuses to allowhim to play video games in whichpeople or things are blown tosmithereens.
smock
smooth
smotherv/ SsmELE(r) /Edestroy the life of by depriving ofair.The firefighter warned that thetoxic smoke in the building wouldsmother anyone in a matter ofseconds.
smudgily
smuggle
snappish
snatch
snazziness
sneakiness
sneezev/ SsnGz /Emake a sudden spasmodicexpiration of breath through thenose.Kaye refused to read magazinescontaining scented ads forperfumes because the strongfragrances made her sneeze.
sneezeweed
snidery
sniffle
snippet
snobbery
snooperscope
snoopery
snoove
snore
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snortv/ SsnO(E)rt /Eforce air violently through the nosewith a rough harsh sound.As many cartoons depict, the bullreally does snort and paw theground when he is angry.
snouch
snowbound
snowdriftn/ SsnPTdrift /E + Ea bank of drifted snow.The snowdrift completely coveredthe fire hydrant.
snowstormn/ SsnPTstO(E)rm /E + Ea storm of falling snow.The overnight snowstorm caused atwo-hour delay of the school’sopening.
snubbed
snufflev/ SsnEfEl /Edraw in forcibly through thenostrils especially audibly andrepeatedly.A hungry dog will sometimessnuffle and gulp vigorously whenfed, seeming to inhale its food.
soakage
soapboxn/ SsPpTbBks /E + Gk > L > Ean improvised platform used by aself-appointed, spontaneous, orinformal orator.Ned needed no encouragement toleap upon his soapbox and holdforth on any subject.
soapstone
soave
soberingly
sobrietyn/ sESbrIEZG /Lthe quality or state of being freefrom the influence of intoxicatingbeverages.At times the drunkard wished hecould lead a life of sobriety.
socialite
societaladj/ sESsIEZFl /L > F + Ecfof or relating to a community withcommon interests.Both candidates promised to curethe most vexatious societal woes.
society
sociocracyn/ TsPs(h)GSBkrEsG /L + Gkthe application of scientificallydetermined principles promotingthe interests of society as a whole.Graham insisted that sociocracywas the answer to most of modernsociety’s problems, while Melissaargued that increased philanthropywould accomplish more faster.
sociocrat
sociogenesis
sociologistn/ TsPsGSBlEjDst /L + Gka specialist in the science ofsociety, social institutions, andsocial relationships.The pioneering sociologist EmileDurkheim was born in France in1858.
sociology
Socraticadj/ sESkraZik /Gk nameof or relating to the philosopherSocrates or his philosophy or hisfollowers.The Socratic method of instruction,simply put, enables the learner toexpress what he already knows.
sodden
sodium
soilure
soily
soireen/ swBSrC /L > Fan evening party or reception.When the band’s new album wasreleased, the record companysponsored a soiree to celebrate theoccasion.
sojourn
solaradj/ SsPlEr /L[has homonym: soler] of, derivedfrom, or relating to the Sun and itseffects especially on Earth andother celestial bodies.A solar diagonal is an attachmentfor a telescope which permitsobservation of the Sun bydiscarding most of the unwantedheat and light.
solarium
sole
soleiform
soleil