Spellingbee 2013 Semifinals wordList

isle

/'īl/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: aisle, I'll] a small piece of land surrounded by water on all sides. (Sentence) Kent dreamed of vacationing on a tropical isle.

laterigrade

/'lad.әrә,grād/, adj, (Definition) running sidewise or characterized by such running. (Sentence) The laterigrade movements of the crab delighted the children on the beach.

lagomorph

/'lagә,mŏrf/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with Lagomorpha.] any of several gnawing animals (as hare, rabbit, or pika) resembling the rodents. (Sentence) A lagomorph has well-developed incisors to help it sever plant stems and gnaw on bark.

langley

/'laŋlē/, n, (Definition) a unit of solar radiation equivalent to 1 gram calorie per square centimeter of irradiated surface. (Sentence) Like many other measurement terms, the langley was named after a prominent scientist.

berylloid

/'berә,lŏid/, n, (Definition) a form consisting of a double 12-sided pyramid. (Sentence) The jeweler decided to cut the unusual crystal into a berylloid to heighten its allure to potential buyers.

bethel

/'bethәl/, n, (Definition) a place of worship, as a chapel for nonconformists. (Sentence) The shelter overlooking the waterfall has become a bethel for Sunday morning hikers who want to contemplate the grandeur of nature.

bibelot

/'bēbә,lō/, n, (Definition) a small household ornament or decorative object : trinket. (Sentence) Mrs. Carnes gave her toddler a bibelot to play with while the women discussed plans for the rally.

fennel

/'fenəl/, n, (Definition) a perennial European herb introduced to North America and cultivated for the aromatic flavor of its seeds. (Sentence) Celene often flavors her vegetables with curry powder and fennel.

fecund

/'fēkәnd/, adj, (Definition) marked by noteworthy intellectual productivity and inventiveness. (Sentence) The Renaissance was a fecund era for the arts.

fiddlehead

/'fidəl,hed/, n, (Definition) one of the young unfurling fronds of certain ferns that are often eaten as greens. (Sentence) Justin refused to try a fiddlehead until he saw how much his sister loved them.

fissure

/'fishә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: fisher] a narrow opening, chasm, or crack of some length and considerable depth usually occurring from some breaking, rending, or parting. (Sentence) A fissure ran through Irene's backyard after the earthquake.

physicist

/'fizәsə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the science of matter and energy and their interactions. (Sentence) The physicist explained how a laser is used to read what is recorded on a compact disc.

fiery

/'fī(ә)rē/, adj, (Definition) of the color of fire : red. (Sentence) Kevin knew that a photograph would not portray the fiery sunset in its full splendor.

flagon

/'flagәn/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: flacon] a large usually metal or pottery vessel with handle and spout and often a lid used to hold liquid. (Sentence) The knights passed around a flagon of ale before riding off to battle.

halogen

/'halәjə̇n/, n, (Definition) any of the five elements fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine forming group VII A of the periodic table. (Sentence) A halogen normally appears in the free state as a diatomic molecule.

hapless

/'haplə̇s/, adj, (Definition) marked by the absence of good luck : unfortunate. (Sentence) The hapless students were caught between the school district and the striking teachers.

hassock

/'hasə̇k/, n, (Definition) a bulky upholstered footstool. (Sentence) Phyllis decided to purchase the wing chair with the matching hassock.

ignoble

/ig'nōbәl/, adj, (Definition) displaying or characterized by baseness or meanness : despicable. (Sentence) The senator changed his vote on the health bill for the ignoble purpose of protecting his stock investments.

exemplary

/ig'zemplәrē/, adj, (Definition) deserving imitation : commendable. (Sentence) Hubert was praised for his exemplary conduct.

extraordinarily

/ik,strŏ(r)dən'erə̇ lē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner beyond what is usual, regular, common, or customary. (Sentence) Dr. Miller told us that Brutus was extraordinarily frisky this morning.

inesculent

/in'eskyәlәnt/, adj, (Definition) not suitable for use as food especially for human beings : inedible. (Sentence) Gary was sick for several days after eating an inesculent mushroom.

infrangible

/in'franjәbәl/, adj, (Definition) not capable of being broken or separated into parts. (Sentence) Though it looks like the finest china, Jennifer's teapot is made of an infrangible polymer.

insatiate

/in'sāsh(ē)ə̇t/, adj, (Definition) not satisfied. (Sentence) The pirates were fierce fighters, hardy seamen, and insatiate plunderers.

incisive

/in'sīsiv/, adj, (Definition) having a cutting edge or piercing point. (Sentence) Mr. Cunningham's wit was as incisive as the stroke of a fang.

inconcinnity

/in,kәn'sinәd.ē/, n, (Definition) lack of suitability or congruity : awkward or unsuitable form or character. (Sentence) There was an obvious inconcinnity between the lawyer's offense and the penalty imposed by the judge.

iconoclast

/ī'känә,klast/, n, (Definition) one who attacks established beliefs, ideals, customs, or institutions. (Sentence) Malcolm has always considered himself the iconoclast of the family.

jacquard

/ja'kärd/, n, (Definition) a fabric of an intricate variegated weave. (Sentence) In the antique store's front window was a fabulous jacquard that portrayed the Last Supper.

genteel

/jen'tēl/, adj, (Definition) free from vulgarity or rudeness : marked by delicacy of manner. (Sentence) Despite his genteel manner, Senator Smith could be a ruthless opponent.

importunate

/ə̇m'pŏrchәnə̇t/, adj, (Definition) troublesomely urgent : overly persistent in request or demand. (Sentence) Peter's importunate requests for assistance cause people to ignore and also avoid him.

canard

/kә'närd/, n, (Definition) a false or unfounded report or story; especially : a fabricated report (as by a newspaper). (Sentence) The report of the famous singer's death turned out to be a canard.

confetti

/kәn'fed.ē/, n pl, (Definition) tiny colored paper disks or paper streamers so made as to scatter readily when thrown. (Sentence) Ticker tape and confetti swirled like snow over the crowded street.

unvaccinated

/әn'vaksә,nād.ә d/, adj, (Definition) not being inoculated with a vaccine in order to produce immunity. (Sentence) The injured, unvaccinated horse was given a tetanus antitoxin shot.

largitional

/lär'jishәnəl/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to a gift or gratuity. (Sentence) The seed money for the new museum consists entirely of largitional funds.

locale

/lō'kal/, n, (Definition) a place or locality especially when viewed in relation to a particular event or characteristic. (Sentence) Evan's doctor told him he needed to live in a drier locale, so he moved to Tucson.

lorgnette

/lŏ(r)n'yet/, n, (Definition) a pair of eyeglasses or opera glasses with a handle. (Sentence) Lorgnette in one hand and hankie in the other, Mrs. Vandergriff looked just like the opera-goers portrayed in cartoons.

litigiousness

/lə̇'tijәsnə̇s/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being prone to engage in lawsuits. (Sentence) An increase in lawsuits can be attributed in part to the growing litigiousness of American society.

levanter

/lə̇'vantә(r)/, n, (Definition) a strong easterly Mediterranean wind. (Sentence) When the levanter hits the Rock of Gibraltar, it soars up 1,400 feet, and its vapor becomes a dense white cloud.

lacuna

/lә'k(y)ünә/, n, (Definition) a blank space : a missing part : gap, hole. (Sentence) Gabe discovered a mysterious lacuna in the manuscript.

Latino

/lә'tēnō/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: ladino] a person of Latin American origin living in the United States. (Sentence) Comedian Paul Rodriguez has built his routine around being a Latino.

malodorous

/mal'ōdәrәs/, adj, (Definition) having a bad odor : rank, fetid, stinking. (Sentence) Evelina smelled the malodorous skunk from 500 yards away.

pampero

/pam'perō/, n, (Definition) a strong cold wind from the west or southwest that sweeps over the pampas of South America from the Andes. (Sentence) The cattle were huddled together with their backs turned into the pampero.

pandowdy

/pan'daůdē/, n, (Definition) a deep-dish apple dessert that is spiced; sweetened with sugar, molasses, or maple syrup; and covered with a rich biscuit crust and baked. (Sentence) Mother serves pandowdy, our favorite dessert, whenever visitors stay for dinner.

pandiculation

/pan,dikyә'lāshә n/, n, (Definition) a stretching and stiffening especially of the trunk and extremities (as when fatigued and drowsy or after waking from sleep). (Sentence) A cat usually extends its claws during pandiculation.

payola

/pā'ōlә/, n, (Definition) an undercover or indirect payment for a commercial favor. (Sentence) The disc jockey was fired when it became known that he received payola from a record company.

pomposity

/päm'päsәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a self-important demeanor, speech, or action. (Sentence) Though he had much power, the leader exhibited no trace of pomposity.

parfait

/pär'fā/, n, (Definition) a cold dessert consisting of alternating layers of fruit, syrup, ice cream, and whipped cream. (Sentence) Following a light lunch, Carmen ordered a parfait of tropical fruits.

paprika

/pә'prēkә/, n, (Definition) a condiment consisting of the dried finely ground pods of various cultivated sweet peppers. (Sentence) Paprika has been a prized export of Hungary for centuries.

paralysis

/pә'ralәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a state of powerlessness or inactivity. (Sentence) A sort of paralysis overcame the frightened child.

staurolatry

/stŏ'rälәtrē/, n, (Definition) worship of the cross or crucifix. (Sentence) After the missionaries left, many natives turned what they had learned into a primitive form of staurolatry.

stalagmite

/stә'lag,mīt/, n, (Definition) a deposit of crystalline calcium carbonate more or less like an inverted stalactite formed on the floor of a cave. (Sentence) A gigantic stalagmite blocked the spelunker's path.

stalactite

/stә'lak,tīt/, n, (Definition) a deposit of calcium carbonate resembling an icicle hanging from the roof or sides of a cavern. (Sentence) It takes hundreds of years for a stalactite to form.

cedilla

/sə̇'dilә/, n, (Definition) a mark placed under a letter to indicate a sound different from that which the unmodified character bears in certain situations. (Sentence) Martha did not earn a perfect score on her French paper because she forgot the cedilla in the word garçon.

eradicate

/ə̇'radә,kāt/, v, (Definition) [has homonym with opposite meaning: irradicate] do away with : destroy completely. (Sentence) Many wheat farmers use aerial sprays to eradicate weeds, diseases, and insect pests from their fields.

evangel

/ə̇'vanjәl/, n, (Definition) a doctrine regarded as having special grace, sanction, or efficacy. (Sentence) Elizabeth Cady Stanton called for a new evangel of womanhood to exalt purity, virtue, and morality.

periwig

/'perə̇,wig/, n, (Definition) one of several wigs popularly worn from the 17th century to the early 19th century. (Sentence) The museum exhibited an imposing portrait of King Louis XIV wearing an elaborate periwig.

peabody

/'pē,bädē/, n, (Definition) a fast ballroom dance in open position. (Sentence) The Lowensteins surprised everyone at the Opera Ball when they danced the peabody.

peaceable

/'pēsәbәl/, adj, (Definition) marked by freedom from war, strife, hostilities, or disorder. (Sentence) Aggressive doctrines are incompatible with any peaceable administration of the government.

pueblo

/'pwe(,)blō/, n, (Definition) a type of town founded by Mexican Spanish settlers in the southwestern United States. (Sentence) Sadly, the ancient pueblo has been abandoned by residents who have chosen to move to larger cities.

pugilist

/'pyüjәlə̇st/, n, (Definition) a professional boxer. (Sentence) Years as a pugilist took their toll on Leo's coordination.

puerilely

/'pyů(ә)rәl(l)ē/, adv, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with purely.] in an immature or childish manner. (Sentence) Hunter reacted puerilely when his mother told him it was time for bed.

pullulate

/'pәlyә,lāt/, v, (Definition) swarm, teem. (Sentence) At rush hour the train station began to pullulate with activity.

pungent

/'pәnjәnt/, adj, (Definition) causing a sharp sensation : pricking, irritating, acrid. (Sentence) The pungent odor of wet dog sent the guests out for fresh air.

purblind

/'pәr,blīnd/, adj, (Definition) lacking in vision, insight, or understanding. (Sentence) Tom was despotic and purblind to the feelings of his wife and children.

rubric

/'rü(,)brik/, n, (Definition) name, title. (Sentence) The fields of botany, zoology, and geology were once classified together under the rubric of "natural history."

ruefully

/'rüfәlē/, adv, (Definition) in a pitiable or woeful manner. (Sentence) Joe ruefully replied that he hadn't been able to bring any lunch with him.

utile

/'yüd.əl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: util] practical, useful. (Sentence) Metals such as copper and tin are particularly utile in manufacturing.

commination

/,kämә'nāshәn/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with combination.] an instance or the action of announcing, warning of, or threatening punishment or vengeance. (Sentence) The president ended his speech with a severe commination against the rebels.

obmutescence

/,äbmyә'tesən(t) s/, n, (Definition) a becoming or keeping silent. (Sentence) To ensure the press's obmutescence regarding the case, the judge issued a gag order.

omnifarious

/,ämnə̇'fa(a)rēәs /, adj, (Definition) of all varieties, forms, or kinds. (Sentence) The natural history museum has an omnifarious collection of animal bones.

onychosis

/,änә'kōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: onchoses] a disease of the nails. (Sentence) Even though he had only a mild onychosis, Eric was not allowed to work in the lab.

comandancia

/,kämәn'danch(ē )ә/, n, (Definition) a province or district under military control. (Sentence) Soldiers patrolled the streets enforcing the curfew in the comandancia.

granulation

/,granyә'lāshәn/, n, (Definition) the act or process of forming or crystallizing into grains or small masses. (Sentence) The granulation of sugar is an important development in the history of food.

groceteria

/,grōsә'tirēә/, n, (Definition) a self-service food store. (Sentence) Patrice bought four lemons at the groceteria.

jeremiad

/,jerә'mīәd/, n, (Definition) a protracted speech marked by deep misery. (Sentence) The old philosopher gave a moving jeremiad against a culture that values knowledge above wisdom.

juvenescence

/,jüvә'nesən(t)s/, n, (Definition) the state of being youthful or of growing young. (Sentence) The director helped the aging actress produce the illusion of juvenescence through careful makeup and lighting.

jurisprudence

/,jůrə̇'sprüdən(t) s/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: jurisprudents] the science or philosophy of law. (Sentence) Tom is a professor of jurisprudence at Yale Law School.

candelabrum

/,kandә'läbrәm/, n, (Definition) a large candlestick or a lamp usually ornamented and having several arms or branches. (Sentence) Germaine admired the ornate silver candelabrum in the center of the table.

pterodactyl

/,terә'daktə̇l/, n, (Definition) any of numerous extinct flying reptiles having a featherless wing membrane and a rudimentary tail. (Sentence) The museum's dinosaur exhibit includes a mechanical replica of a pterodactyl.

tetralemma

/,tetrә'lemә/, n, (Definition) an argument analogous to a dilemma but presenting four alternatives in the premises. (Sentence) When Rachel received four equally attractive invitations to the prom, she decided to draw straws to solve the tetralemma.

barrage

/bә'räzh/, n, (Definition) a massive concentrated and usually continuous discharge or shower (as of missiles or blows). (Sentence) In Puritan New England, those who broke the law were sometimes put to death by a barrage of stones.

effulgent

/e'fůljәnt/, adj, (Definition) marked by or as if by brightly shining light. (Sentence) An effulgent flash of intuition enabled Tony to solve the geometry exam's final problem.

embarcadero

/em,bärkә'de(,)r ō/, n, (Definition) a landing place; especially : a landing place on an inland waterway. (Sentence) An organ grinder and his monkey entertained visitors at the embarcadero of the restored village.

immalleable

/i(m)'malēәbәl/, adj, (Definition) not open to outside forces or influences : unyielding, rigid. (Sentence) Dean remained immalleable in his refusal to resign.

immiscibility

/i(m)'misә'bilәd. ē/, n, (Definition) inability to mix or become homogeneous. (Sentence) Rain falling on an oil slick demonstrates the immiscibility of the two liquids.

irrefragable

/i(r)'refrәgәbәl/, adj, (Definition) impossible to gainsay, deny, or refute. (Sentence) The prosecutor maintained that the evidence against the defendant was irrefragable.

limeade

/'lī,mād/, n, (Definition) a drink made with lime juice, sugar, and water. (Sentence) Gertrude served chilled limeade and sugar cookies.

lyonnaise

/'līә,nāz/, adj, (Definition) prepared or seasoned with onions and sometimes parsley. (Sentence) Ricardo ordered lyonnaise potatoes as an elegant alternative to french fries.

lucid

/'lüsə̇d/, adj, (Definition) penetrated with light : translucent. (Sentence) The otters romped and played in the lucid stream.

decuple

/'dek(y)әpәl/, v, (Definition) make or become ten times as much or as many. (Sentence) No one would ever have dreamed that the company's worth would decuple in two years.

decrement

/'dekrәmәnt/, n, (Definition) the act or process of gradually becoming less : decrease. (Sentence) The game warden explained that a deer herd suffers no decrement if the legal hunting take is not permitted to exceed 20 percent of the total herd.

epicycle

/'epә,sīkәl/, n, (Definition) a circle in which a planet moves and which has a center that is itself carried around at the same time on the circumference of a larger circle. (Sentence) Ancient astronomers used the epicycle to explain their theory that Earth is at the center of the solar system.

garlion

/'gärlyәn/, n, (Definition) a hybrid vegetable resulting from a cross between garlic and onion. (Sentence) Shannon uses garlion in her spaghetti sauce.

gossamer

/'gäsәmә(r)/, n, (Definition) a fine filmy substance consisting of fragments or strands of cobweb often seen floating in air in calm clear weather or caught on grass or bushes. (Sentence) The dew and gossamer had dried from the grass by midmorning.

gosling

/'gäzliŋ/, n, (Definition) a young goose. (Sentence) Judy rescued a stray gosling from Mrs. Porter's cat.

gingham

/'giŋәm/, n, (Definition) a fabric in plain weave made in solid colors, checks, plaids, and stripes. (Sentence) Betsy made curtains of blue gingham for her kitchen.

gladiator

/'gladē,ād.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a person engaged in a fight to the death as public entertainment for ancient Romans. (Sentence) The victorious gladiator was cheered by the excited crowd in the Coliseum.

glacier

/'glāshә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: glazier] a large body of ice moving slowly down a slope or valley or spreading outward on a land surface. (Sentence) The iceberg that sank Titanic had probably broken off from a glacier on Greenland.

glazier

/'glāzhә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonyms: glacier, glazer] one whose work is cutting and setting glass. (Sentence) Mom called a glazier who agreed to repair our broken window on Thursday.

gaucherie

/'gōshә,rē/, n, (Definition) a tactless or awkward action; often : a bit of social or literary crudity. (Sentence) Daphne's mom told her that using one's dinner napkin as a handkerchief is an unforgivable gaucherie.

gorse

/'gŏ(ә)rs/, n, (Definition) a spiny evergreen shrub : juniper. (Sentence) Taryn went hiking in an area of England that is just miles and miles of wild land covered with heather and gorse.

gaunt

/'gŏnt/, adj, (Definition) thin and angular. (Sentence) On a high podium in front stood the conductor—a tall, gaunt man with dark deep-set eyes.

howitzer

/'haůə̇tsә(r)/, n, (Definition) a cannon employed to fire projectiles at a target (as enemy artillery behind a ridge) which cannot be reached by flat-trajectory weapons. (Sentence) Corporal Slater towed the howitzer to the base of the ridge.

hastily

/'hāstə̇lē/, adv, (Definition) hurriedly. (Sentence) The hastily executed maneuver saved the ship from the rocks.

axel

/'aksәl/, n, (Definition) forward edge of one skate with 11⁄2 turns taken in the air and a return to the outer backward edge of the other skate. (Sentence) Melanie performed a flawless triple axel in practice but fell on the landing during the tryouts for the ice show.

blizzard

/'blizә(r)d/, n, (Definition) a severe and prolonged snowstorm. (Sentence) Last winter many cattle perished in a blizzard.

bludgeon

/'blәjәn/, n, (Definition) a short stick used as a weapon usually having one thick, heavy, or loaded end. (Sentence) The shop teacher confiscated the crude bludgeon Harlan had fashioned from a baseball bat.

Bolshevik

/'bōlshə̇,vik/, n, (Definition) a member of the Russian Communist Party. (Sentence) The Bolshevik kept repeating, "This could never happen in a communist country."

bonsai

/'bōn,sī/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: banzai] a potted plant (as a tree) dwarfed by special methods of culture. (Sentence) Joanie spent the afternoon instructing a class on pruning a bonsai.

brachiate

/'brakē,āt/, v, (Definition) progress by swinging from one hold to another by the arms. (Sentence) The children enjoyed watching the chimpanzees playfully brachiate from tree to tree.

cavalcade

/'kavәl,kād/, n, (Definition) a procession of riders or carriages. (Sentence) The king headed up the cavalcade proceeding toward the Duke of Parma.

caisson

/'kā,sän/, n, (Definition) a two-wheeled vehicle for artillery ammunition attachable to a horse-drawn limber for marching. (Sentence) A caisson is sometimes used to carry the coffin in a military funeral.

cub

/'kәb/, n, (Definition) a young person; especially : an awkward or ill- mannered boy. (Sentence) Mr. Downes called every student that passed through his classroom a "young cub."

lampyrid

/'lampәrə̇d/, n, (Definition) a beetle or firefly of medium or small size having an elongate form. (Sentence) The lightning bug is a common lampyrid.

landau

/'lan,daů/, n, (Definition) a four-wheeled covered carriage. (Sentence) People who cannot picture what a landau looks like should think of Cinderella's carriage.

lassitude

/'lasә,tüd/, n, (Definition) a condition of weariness or debility : fatigue. (Sentence) Lassitude is a symptom of many tropical diseases.

melleous

/'melēәs/, adj, (Definition) resembling or containing honey. (Sentence) The beekeeper cut a melleous chunk of honeycomb from the hive and put it in a jar.

menaced

/'menәst/, v, (Definition) made a show of intention to harm : made a threatening gesture, statement, or act against. (Sentence) Rosemary watched as a blue jay and a stray cat menaced and threatened each other in her back yard.

mesentery

/'mesən,terē/, n, (Definition) a membranous tissue or one of the membranes that envelop and support visceral organs (as the intestines). (Sentence) The mesentery attaches parts of the small intestine to the posterior wall of the abdomen.

mesmerized

/'mezmә,rīzd/, v, (Definition) spellbound : hypnotized. (Sentence) Tracy gazed at the screen saver, mesmerized by the changing patterns.

gnathic

/'nathik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the jaw. (Sentence) The zoology students compared the gnathic features of various animals.

nougat

/'nügәt/, n, (Definition) a confection of nuts or fruit pieces in a sugar paste. (Sentence) Lynn's boyfriend gave her a box of chocolates filled with hazelnut nougat.

nurturance

/'nәrchәrәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) affectionate care and attention. (Sentence) Children who receive adequate nurturance often are friendly and outgoing.

oboe

/'ōbō/, n, (Definition) a wooden double-reed wind instrument. (Sentence) Tommy introduced his mother to his friend who played the oboe in the orchestra.

dechlorinate

/dē'klōrә,nāt/, v, (Definition) remove chlorine from. (Sentence) The gardener was advised to dechlorinate the tap water before using it to water certain plants.

diaspora

/dī'asp(ә)rә/, n, (Definition) a dispersion (as of people of a common national origin or of common beliefs). (Sentence) The guest lecturer at the Modern Language Association meeting jokingly referred to the diaspora of Esperanto speakers.

effuse

/e'fyüz/, v, (Definition) flow out : emanate. (Sentence) Christy was not surprised to see hostility and criticism effuse from the defeated candidate.

escargot

/eskårgō/, n, (Definition) a snail prepared for use as food. (Sentence) Saul fished the escargot out of its shell with a tiny fork and popped it into his mouth.

flamenco

/flә'meŋ(,)kō/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: flamingo] a vigorous rhythmic dance of the Andalusian Gypsies. (Sentence) The dancer entertained the patrons at the Spanish restaurant with a rousing flamenco.

Franconian

/fraŋ'kōnēәn/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the West Germanic dialects of the Franks. (Sentence) The earliest Franconian written documents belong to the late 8th or early 9th century.

funambulist

/fyü'nambyәlə̇st /, n, (Definition) an acrobat who performs feats on a rope extended through the air at some height. (Sentence) A hush came over the crowd as the funambulist balanced himself on one foot.

fajitas

/fә'hētәz/, n pl, (Definition) marinated strips of beef or chicken or sometimes shrimp grilled or broiled and served usually with a flour tortilla and various savory fillings (as sautéed peppers, guacamole, and sour cream). (Sentence) Joshua made a special dinner of chicken fajitas for his Spanish tutor.

philately

/fә'lad.əlē/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: flatly] stamp collecting. (Sentence) Philately can be an excellent inexpensive hobby.

phenomenon

/fә'nämә,nän/, n, (Definition) an observable fact or event. (Sentence) The civil rights movement began as a startling phenomenon to many complacent Americans.

forlorn

/fә(r)'lŏ(ә)rn/, adj, (Definition) sad and lonely especially by reason of emptiness or abandonment. (Sentence) The forlorn widow was most appreciative of the party her neighbors held to honor her birthday.

forsooth

/fә(r)'süth/, adv, (Definition) in truth : certainly. (Sentence) Forsooth, the queen was the most beautiful woman in the world.

gambado

/gam'bā(,)dō/, n, (Definition) a long boot or legging attached to each side of a saddle to protect the rider's feet and legs from the wet or cold. (Sentence) Preparing for a ride in the rain, the horseman attached a gambado to each stirrup strap.

grammarian

/grә'merēәn/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the study of what is to be preferred and what avoided in the inflections and syntax of language. (Sentence) The grammarian in Johnny cringes every time he hears someone ask, "Where at?"

guilloche

/gə̇'lōsh/, n, (Definition) a pattern (as on metalwork) made by interlacing curved lines. (Sentence) The dense guilloche on the iron gate prevented people from reaching through to turn the inside knob.

gestapo

/gə̇'stä(,)pō/, n, (Definition) a secret-police organization that operates especially against persons suspected of treason or sedition and employs means held to be underhanded and terrorist. (Sentence) In the novel, morality became nothing more than subservience to the dictates of the ruthless gestapo.

gazelle

/gә'zel/, n, (Definition) any of numerous small graceful and swift African and Asian antelopes noted for the luster and soft expression of their eyes. (Sentence) The fawn and white coloration of the gazelle serves to minimize detection by predators.

Homeric

/hō'merik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the Greek poet Homer, his age, or his writings. (Sentence) The Homeric portrayal of death is pessimistic and offers no unambiguously attractive hope of a reward for a good life.

immiscible

/i(m)'misәbәl/, adj, (Definition) not capable of mixing or being mixed. (Sentence) Oil and water are immiscible.

Cambodian

/kam'bōdēәn/, n, (Definition) the language of the Cambodians, which is of Mon- Khmer origin. (Sentence) Sunita surprised her boss when she volunteered to learn Cambodian for his research.

cantankerous

/kan'ta(i)ŋk(ә)rә s/, adj, (Definition) marked by ill humor, irritability, and determination to disagree. (Sentence) The cantankerous old man yelled at Grady as he attempted to retrieve the football.

chloasma

/klō'azmә/, n, (Definition) a skin discoloration marked by yellowish brown pigmented patches or spots—called also "liver spots." (Sentence) Because conforming is important to small children, they have trouble ignoring things like chloasma.

commemorate

/kә'memә,rāt/, v, (Definition) call to remembrance as by speech, writing, or ceremony. (Sentence) Every year on December seventh, ceremonies are held to commemorate those who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

palpus

/'pal,pәs/, n, (Definition) a segmented process attached to a mouthpart of an arthropod, usually having a tasting or feeling function. (Sentence) Jack found a species of grasshopper with an unusually large palpus.

palpebral

/'palpәbrәl/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: palpable] of, relating to, or located on or near the eyelids. (Sentence) Mike's palpebral spasms were alleviated when he was treated with a muscle relaxant.

profligate

/'präflə̇gə̇t/, adj, (Definition) completely given up to wild extravagance or excess. (Sentence) Lord Kensington's profligate spending was the reason for the meeting with his banker.

rotulet

/'rächәlə̇t/, n, (Definition) a small scroll or register. (Sentence) The circuit judge logged all his court business in a rotulet.

singe

/'sinj/, v, (Definition) burn (something) superficially or lightly as to remove the hair or down from (an animal or fowl) by passing over a flame. (Sentence) Kate's grandmother recalled the days when her job was to singe chickens after they had been plucked.

cinnamon

/'sinәmәn/, n, (Definition) a culinary spice prepared from the bark of certain tropical trees. (Sentence) Akbar likes cinnamon in his hot chocolate.

tarmac

/'tär,mak/, n, (Definition) a road, apron, or runway made of asphalt. (Sentence) Neil's suitcase fell out of the airplane and its contents spilled out onto the tarmac.

katana

/kә'tänә/, n, (Definition) a single-edged sword that is the longer of a pair worn by the Japanese samurai. (Sentence) Hiroko proudly showed the guests her great- grandfather's katana hanging on the wall.

ampicillin

/,ampә'silə̇n/, n, (Definition) a penicillin that is effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and is used to treat various infections of the urinary, respiratory, and intestinal tracts. (Sentence) Pneumonia has been successfully treated with ampicillin.

bagatelle

/,bagә'tel/, n, (Definition) a game played with a cue and usually nine balls on an oblong table having cups or both cups and arches at one end. (Sentence) Aaron is an excellent snooker player but is unfamiliar with the rules of bagatelle.

bonification

/,bänәfə̇'kāshәn/, n, (Definition) betterment of housing conditions and farming practices in a particular area. (Sentence) The Peace Corps engages in bonification in almost every underdeveloped country in the world.

beriberi

/,berē'berē/, n, (Definition) a disease caused by a lack of or inability to assimilate vitamin B-1. (Sentence) The symptoms of beriberi usually respond well to dietary improvements.

bicentennial

/,bīsen'tenēәl/, n, (Definition) a 200th anniversary or its celebration. (Sentence) Bargersville will celebrate the bicentennial of its founding next year.

brucellosis

/,brüsә'lōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a human disease characterized by extreme exhaustion and generalized aches and pains and acquired through infected animal products. (Sentence) An outbreak of brucellosis forced the sausage factory to shut down.

boutonniere

/,bütən'i(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a flower or bouquet worn in a buttonhole. (Sentence) The groom wore a sprig of orange blossom as a boutonniere.

deuteragonist

/,d(y)üd.ә'ragәn ə̇st/, n, (Definition) a person who serves as a foil to another. (Sentence) The movie's hero was thwarted by the villainous deuteragonist.

deuterogamy

/,d(y)üd.ә'rägәm ē/, n, (Definition) a legal second marriage after the termination of a first marriage. (Sentence) After Gordon's wife passed away, he expressed his opinion that a deuterogamy was out of the question.

linoleum

/lə̇'nōlēәm/, n, (Definition) a floor covering made by laying on a cloth backing a mixture of solidified linseed oil and various solid particles and usually pigments. (Sentence) The pattern in Sheena's kitchen linoleum resembles inlaid pebbles.

equilibrium

/,ēkwә'librēәm/, n, (Definition) a state of dynamic balance attained in a reversible chemical reaction when the velocities in both directions are equal. (Sentence) Marge injected a flask of colorless nitrogen dioxide with dinitrogen tetroxide, a brown gas, to illustrate chemical equilibrium: When equilibrium occurred, the gas in the flask stopped becoming browner.

hamartia

/,hä,mär'tēә/, n, (Definition) a defect of character : error, guilt, or sin especially of the tragic hero in a literary work. (Sentence) Overweening ambition proved to be Macbeth's hamartia.

holophrastic

/,hälә'frastik/, adj, (Definition) expressing a complex of ideas in a single word. (Sentence) Holophrastic utterances are one of the first stages in children's acquisition of speech.

hemiplegic

/,hemə̇'plējik/, adj, (Definition) marked by paralysis of one lateral half of the body or part of it resulting from injury to the motor centers of the brain. (Sentence) Marc's automobile accident left him in a hemiplegic condition.

murarium

/myü'ra(a)rēәm/, n, (Definition) a place for rearing mice or rats under controlled conditions. (Sentence) Research at the murarium resulted in the initial claim that saccharine consumption causes cancer.

malignant

/mә'lignәnt/, adj, (Definition) evil in nature or influence or effect. (Sentence) The dark clammy coldness surrounded her like a malignant beast of prey.

hemodialysis

/,hēmōdī'alәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) the process of removing blood from an artery (as of a kidney patient), purifying it, adding vital substances, and returning it to a vein. (Sentence) Mr. Barnes is glad that his hemodialysis can be done at home instead of at the hospital.

hematology

/,hēmә'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of biology that deals with the blood and blood-forming organs. (Sentence) The research in leukemia provided synopses of several case studies in hematology.

hematoma

/,hēmә'tōmә/, n, (Definition) a tumor or swelling containing blood. (Sentence) A hematoma can result from various types of blunt trauma to the head.

nitidity

/ni'tidәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being bright, glossy, or lustrous. (Sentence) The moon's nitidity helps owls find their prey.

camionette

/,kamyә'net/, n, (Definition) a small truck or bus. (Sentence) The hotel provides a camionette to shuttle guests to and from the airport.

quadragenarian

/,kwädrәjə̇'na(a) rēәn/, n, (Definition) a person who is 40 or more and less than 50 years old. (Sentence) Evelyn became a grandmother while she was a quadragenarian.

monetarily

/,mänә'terәlē/, adv, (Definition) with respect to money. (Sentence) Bud said he wasn't broke, just monetarily deficient.

marginalia

/,märjә'nālēә/, n pl, (Definition) notes written in the border of a page. (Sentence) Gordon was excited to find some historically interesting marginalia in his great-grandfather's law books.

mediocre

/,mēdē'ōkә(r)/, adj, (Definition) of but a moderate or low degree of quality. (Sentence) Jill's grades were mediocre until she started wearing glasses.

prelapsarian

/,prē,lap'sa(a)rē әn/, adj, (Definition) characteristic of or belonging to the time before the fall of man. (Sentence) The painting depicted Adam and Eve in prelapsarian paradise.

ratafia

/,rad.ә'fēә/, n, (Definition) a small sweet biscuit made from almond paste. (Sentence) May ate a ratafia with her coffee for breakfast.

pomander

/pō'mandә(r)/, n, (Definition) a mixture of perfumed or aromatic substances usually made in a ball and enclosed in a perforated bag or box. (Sentence) Gayle included a pomander in the chest containing her winter clothes.

simultaneously

/,sīmәl'tānēәslē/, adv, (Definition) at the same time : concurrently. (Sentence) Jason, who often types and talks simultaneously, calls himself a "master of multitasking."

trigonometry

/,trigә'nämәtrē/, n, (Definition) a branch of mathematics dealing with the relations holding among the sides and angles of triangles and among closely related magnitudes and especially with methods of deducing from given parts other required parts. (Sentence) Rachel enjoyed her course in trigonometry much more than she enjoys her calculus class.

tularemia

/,tülә'rēmēә/, n, (Definition) a bacterial disease of rodents, man, and some domestic animals. (Sentence) Jerry's temperature reached a dangerously high level during his bout with tularemia.

tercentenary

/,tәrsen'tenәrē/, n, (Definition) a 300th anniversary or its celebration. (Sentence) Next year Possumville will celebrate the tercentenary of its founding.

valedictory

/,valә'dikt(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) a speech or farewell usually given at the commencement exercises of a school or college. (Sentence) Alice's valedictory at graduation brought the entire senior class to its feet.

viability

/,vīә'bilәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the ability to live, grow, and develop. (Sentence) The viability of the crop was in question after the severe hailstorm.

prerogative

/prē'rägәd.iv/, n, (Definition) a special right or privilege belonging to a person, group, or class of individuals. (Sentence) It is the prerogative of the president of the United States to have Air Force One at his disposal.

precipitate

/prē'sipә,tāt/, v, (Definition) cause a substance to separate from a solution in a concrete state as a result of a chemical or physical change. (Sentence) Calcium and magnesium ions in hard water can precipitate calcium and magnesium carbonate, often a problem in domestic water pipes.

pretentious

/prē'tenchәs/, adj, (Definition) making or possessing claims (as of excellence, superiority, greatness). (Sentence) The pretentious candidate found little support among the common people.

propinquity

/prō'piŋkwәd.ē/, n, (Definition) nearness in place : proximity. (Sentence) The roots of the trees in close propinquity to the new sidewalk will soon ruin it.

parochial

/pә'rōkēәl/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to a church parish. (Sentence) Five of Susan's friends attended parochial schools.

parolee

/pә,rō'lē/, n, (Definition) one granted a conditional and revocable release from prison. (Sentence) Vanessa hoped that giving the parolee a job would help to keep him from becoming a repeat offender.

rappelled

/ra'peld/, v, (Definition) [has near homonym: repelled] descended a precipitous cliff by means of a rope. (Sentence) Simon pushed off with his feet as he rappelled down the precipice.

rascette

/ra'set/, n, (Definition) a line crossing the wrist below the palm of the hand that is sometimes held by palmists to provide additional indication of a strong or weak constitution. (Sentence) Madame Xantha peered closely at Helen's rascette and told her she would live to be 100.

ratatouille

/råtåtüy/, n, (Definition) a stew made of eggplant, tomatoes, green peppers, squash, and sometimes meat. (Sentence) Marnie used vegetables from her own garden to make the ratatouille.

repartee

/repә(r)'tē/, n, (Definition) a succession of clever retorts. (Sentence) Susie and Josh's repartee is so excessive that even their friends tire quickly of the constant retorts.

recoup

/rē'küp/, v, (Definition) compensate (as oneself) for something (as expenses, losses). (Sentence) Dorene did not expect to recoup her day-trading losses immediately.

rhinoceros

/rī'näs(ә)rәs/, n, (Definition) any of various large powerful herbivorous thick- skinned mammals that have one or two heavy upright horns on the snout. (Sentence) The videotape showed dramatic footage of a rhinoceros charging a photographer.

rotisserie

/rō'tisәrē/, n, (Definition) a cooking appliance with a spit on which food is rotated before or over a source of heat. (Sentence) Herb cooked the chicken on a rotisserie over his gas grill.

rotundity

/rō'tәndәd.ē/, n, (Definition) roundness. (Sentence) When he looked in the fun-house mirror, Chris was astounded by his rotundity.

regale

/rə̇'gāl/, v, (Definition) entertain (as a person) sumptuously or agreeably : feast with delicacies. (Sentence) The hostess will regale her bridge club members with a variety of delightful homemade desserts.

relinquished

/rə̇'liŋwishd/, v, (Definition) let go of physically : stopped holding : released. (Sentence) When the sled came to a stop, Bowser relinquished his hold on Brian's snow jacket.

riparian

/rə̇'perēәn/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with riparial.] of, relating to, or living or located on the bank of a watercourse (as a river or stream). (Sentence) Most wildlife depends on riparian areas for survival.

recitalist

/rə̇'sīd.ələ̇st/, n, (Definition) one who performs programs of vocal or instrumental music. (Sentence) The recitalist sang several romantic arias from various operas.

beaumontage

/bō'mäntij/, n, (Definition) a composition used by artisans to fill and conceal holes or cracks in wood or metal. (Sentence) Bart asked the conservator to replace all the old beaumontage in the statuette.

makable

/'mākәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being made. (Sentence) Boris and Natasha argued over how to establish a makable bridge contract.

maize

/'māz/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: maze] Indian corn. (Sentence) Gina enjoys hearing the story of how the native Americans taught the Pilgrims to grow maize.

mayonnaise

/'māә,nāz/, n, (Definition) a semisolid dressing made by emulsifying a mixture of raw eggs or egg yolks, vegetable oil, and vinegar or lemon juice usually together with salt and condiments. (Sentence) Helga wouldn't eat a roast beef sandwich without mayonnaise.

mare

/'mä(,)rā/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: moray] one of several dark areas of considerable extent on the surface of either the Moon or Mars. (Sentence) The Sea of Tranquility is perhaps the best-known mare on the Moon.

mahimahi

/'mähē'mähē/, n, (Definition) a spiny-finned fish which is widely distributed in tropical and temperate seas and is esteemed as food. (Sentence) Today's special is mahimahi marinated in a soy-ginger sauce.

martin

/'märtən/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: marten] a small European swallow. (Sentence) Although a martin is a small bird, it is often the terror of hawks, crows, and eagles.

celestial

/sə̇'les(h)chәl/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the sky. (Sentence) The awesome display of celestial light was later identified as a meteor shower.

agility

/ә'jilәd.ē/, n, (Definition) quickness and dexterity of movement. (Sentence) Mrs. Case moved with great agility for such an old woman.

occasionally

/ә'kāzhәnəlē/, adv, (Definition) now and then : here and there. (Sentence) The Spelling Bee replied, "Years ago I was just an ordinary bee minding my own business, smelling flowers all day, and occasionally picking up part-time work in people's bonnets."

acrostic

/ә'krŏstik/, n, (Definition) a composition usually in verse in which one or more sets of letters when taken in order form a word, a connected group of words, or the regular sequence of the letters of the alphabet. (Sentence) Mrs. Taylor was not at all pleased with the acrostic her students made using her name.

anemone

/ә'nemәnē/, n, (Definition) a plant or flower of a widely distributed genus of plants with showy flowers that lack petals but have showy sepals. (Sentence) Xantha picked an anemone from the flower bed.

altiplano

/,altə̇'plä(,)nō/, n, (Definition) a high plateau or plain : tableland. (Sentence) A cold northerly wind over the altiplano heralded the arrival of winter.

apophysis

/ә'päfәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a part of a bone (as a vertebra) that projects outward. (Sentence) After Tony's car accident, X rays showed that the apophysis of one of his vertebrae was out of alignment.

amity

/'amәd.ē/, n, (Definition) friendship and goodwill, especially as characterized by mutual acceptance and tolerance of potentially antagonistic standpoints or aims. (Sentence) The natural amity between Avital and her sister has helped them maintain strong ties through many family disagreements.

amphibian

/am'fibēәn/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: amphibion] an animal or plant accustomed or adapted to life both on land and in the water. (Sentence) The frog is perhaps the best-known amphibian.

afflatus

/ә'flād.әs/, n, (Definition) a divine imparting of knowledge or power : inspiration. (Sentence) Most art students are familiar with Michelangelo's painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel depicting the afflatus from God to Adam.

annoyance

/ә'nŏiәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) a source of vexation or irritation : bothersome disturbance. (Sentence) Vera enjoyed raking leaves on the warm autumn day, but the loud music from the neighbor's yard was an annoyance.

apostate

/ә'pä,stāt/, n, (Definition) one who has renounced or forsaken his religious faith or given up his moral allegiance. (Sentence) The Roman emperor known as "Julian the Apostate" tried to reverse the tide of Christianity in the Roman empire.

auricle

/'ŏrə̇kәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: oracle] a chamber of the heart that receives blood from the veins and forces it into the ventricle or ventricles. (Sentence) The heart of a fish has one auricle and one ventricle.

apyretic

/,ā,pī'red.ik/, adj, (Definition) without fever. (Sentence) The pediatrician said that Bobby could return to school as soon as he was apyretic.

abranchiate

/ā'braŋkēə̇t/, adj, (Definition) lacking gills. (Sentence) Salamanders develop into an abranchiate form as they mature.

acuminate

/ә'kyümәnə̇t/, adj, (Definition) tapering to a slender point : pointed. (Sentence) Steve found one of his parakeet's acuminate tail feathers on the floor.

alembic

/ә'lembik/, n, (Definition) an apparatus usually made of glass or metal formerly much used in distillation. (Sentence) The sorcerer used an alembic in concocting the invisibility potion.

aitch

/'āch/, n, (Definition) the letter h. (Sentence) It is surprising in how many words the aitch is silent.

aquosity

/ә'kwäsәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being moist. (Sentence) Marlene dutifully checked the aquosity of the soil every day with the test strips the nursery gave her.

acquittal

/ә'kwid.əl/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] release or discharge from debt or other liability. (Sentence) Mr. Churchill was deeply involved in the game and was too much indebted to it for his acquittal.

adversaries

/'advә(r),serēz/, n pl, (Definition) ones that contend with, oppose, or resist. (Sentence) Cynthia's adversaries in the tennis tournament were not easily defeated.

arduous

/'ärjәwәs/, adj, (Definition) hard to accomplish or achieve : difficult. (Sentence) Alan was not prepared for the arduous demands of his construction job.

augur

/'ŏgә(r)/, v, (Definition) [has homonym and near homonym: auger and agar] give indirect evidence of : portend. (Sentence) The club members' enthusiasm and dedication augur success for the club's projects.

aurify

/'ŏrә,fī/, v, (Definition) turn into gold. (Sentence) Alchemists of long ago tried to aurify stone.

accouchement

/,a,küsh'män/, n, (Definition) lying-in; especially : parturition : a state attending and consequent to childbirth. (Sentence) Many insurance companies require that hospitals limit the period of accouchement to 24 hours.

abnegation

/,abnē'gāshәn/, n, (Definition) renunciation or denial. (Sentence) Monasticism involves the disciplining, limitation, or abnegation of the material aspects of human life.

alfresco

/al'fre(,)skō/, adj, (Definition) open-air. (Sentence) Everyone looks forward to the alfresco party that the Smiths hold every Derby Day.

anaconda

/,anә'kändә/, n, (Definition) a large arboreal snake of the boa family of tropical South America. (Sentence) The anaconda has been known to forage in trees for birds.

analemma

/,anә'lemә/, n, (Definition) a graduated scale shaped like a figure 8 and showing the Sun's declination for each day of the year usually constituting part of a sundial and often shown on globes. (Sentence) Katrina consulted the sundial's analemma to calculate the correct time.

animadversions

/,anә,mad'vәrzh әnz/, n pl, (Definition) censorious remarks or observations. (Sentence) The movie received so many animadversions in preliminary reviews that the producer decided to revamp it.

apparatus

/,apә'rad.әs/, n, (Definition) any compound instrument or appliance designed for a specific mechanical or chemical action or operation. (Sentence) The trainer went into much detail about which apparatus is better for a cardiovascular workout.

arenicolous

/,arә'nikәlәs/, adj, (Definition) inhabiting or burrowing in sand : growing in sand soil. (Sentence) Numerous arenicolous organisms can be found at the beach.

acetylene

/ә'sed.ələ̇n/, n, (Definition) a colorless gaseous hydrocarbon that is explosive when compressed but safe if diluted with nitrogen or acetone. (Sentence) The welder ran out of acetylene while cutting through the ship's hull.

assize

/ә'sīz/, n, (Definition) a statute or ordinance regulating weights and measures or the weight, measure, proportions of ingredients, or price of articles sold in the market. (Sentence) Predna's silver jewelry was produced in strict accordance with the local assize.

aspersion

/ә'spәrzhәn/, n, (Definition) a calumnious or defamatory expression or reflection. (Sentence) Questions about Tom's handling of the club's petty cash cast an aspersion on his honesty.

albedometer

/,albә'dämәd.ә(r )/, n, (Definition) a device for measuring the reflection of light (as by snow). (Sentence) David used an albedometer to measure the reflection of light by the clouds.

auscultation

/,ŏskәl'tāshәn/, n, (Definition) the act of listening to sounds arising within organs (as the lungs or heart) as an aid to diagnosis and treatment. (Sentence) Warming her stethoscope with her hands before performing auscultation has become second nature to Dr. Harris.

abscissa

/ab'sisә/, n, (Definition) the horizontal coordinate of a point in a plane Cartesian coordinate system obtained by measuring parallel to the x-axis. (Sentence) Bill was asked to mark the point on the graph at which the abscissa is 4 and the ordinate is 7.

advection

/ad'vekshәn/, n, (Definition) the horizontal movement of a mass of air which causes changes in temperature or in other physical properties of air. (Sentence) The advection of warm, moist air over a cold surface often causes fog.

Adonis

/ә'dänə̇s/, n, (Definition) an exceptionally handsome young man. (Sentence) Nearly all the eighth-grade girls think that Leonardo is an Adonis.

adjournment

/ә'jәrnmәnt/, n, (Definition) the act of putting off further proceedings either indefinitely or until a later stated time. (Sentence) Judge Harcourt refused to grant the defendant's request for an adjournment and ordered the trial to continue.

accomplice

/ә'kämplə̇s/, n, (Definition) one that participates with another in a crime either as principal or accessory. (Sentence) The juvenile was convicted as an accomplice in the robbery.

accommodating

/ә'kämә,dād.iŋ/, adj, (Definition) disposed to be helpful or obliging. (Sentence) The accommodating chef prepared the dish exactly as the diner asked.

allusively

/ә'lüsivlē/, adv, (Definition) implicitly, indirectly. (Sentence) The old parchment mentioned treasure so allusively that it was not clear whether it was referring to something of actual monetary value.

aerosol

/'a(ә)rә,sŏl/, n, (Definition) a suspension of ultramicroscopic solid or liquid particles in air or gas. (Sentence) Volcanic eruptions propel hydrogen sulfide into the stratosphere, where it reacts with oxygen to form an aerosol that can persist for more than a year.

abacus

/'abə̇kәs/, n, (Definition) a calculating instrument for performing arithmetical processes by sliding counters by hand on rods or in grooves. (Sentence) The grocer used an abacus instead of a modern cash register.

apiculture

/'āpә,kәlchә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: aviculture] beekeeping, especially when pursued on a large scale. (Sentence) Even though apiculture has been practiced for many centuries, bees have not been domesticated or tamed.

argument

/'ärgyәmәnt/, n, (Definition) an act or process of contending or disagreeing in words : disputation. (Sentence) Patrick Henry's famous impassioned speech focused on how ten years of argument with England had been in vain.

argonaut

/'ärgә,nŏt/, n, (Definition) an adventurer or traveler engaged in a particular quest; specifically : one of those who went to California in 1849 in search of gold. (Sentence) Another name for an argonaut is "forty-niner."

acquisition

/,akwә'zishәn/, n, (Definition) the act or action of obtaining. (Sentence) The principal stated that the students' main goal should be the acquisition of knowledge.

pharaoh

/'fe(,)rō/, n, (Definition) a ruler of ancient Egypt. (Sentence) Tutankhamen is one pharaoh whose name most people recognize.

wherewithal

/'(h)we(ә)rwə̇,th ŏl/, n, (Definition) financial resources : money. (Sentence) Everyone was surprised that Jake had the wherewithal to buy a sailboat.

wheelwright

/'(h)wēl,rīt/, n, (Definition) a person whose occupation is to make or repair circular frames of metal, wood, or other hard material. (Sentence) In the days of the horse and buggy, the wheelwright had an essential job to do.

wharfinger

/'(h)wŏ(r)fәnjә(r) /, n, (Definition) a person or company operating a marine terminal with facilities for the berthing of ships and the loading, unloading, and storage of goods. (Sentence) The wharfinger keeps a parrot in his office.

affluent

/'a,flüәnt/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word. Also, word could be confused with effluent.] a stream or river flowing into a larger river or into a lake : a tributary stream. (Sentence) The affluent responsible for the lake's pollution is the creek that runs beside the packing plant.

aphorism

/'afә,rizәm/, n, (Definition) a terse and often ingenious formulation of a truth or sentiment usually in a single sentence. (Sentence) Clark lives his life by the aphorism "Clothes make the man."

agribusiness

/'agrə̇,biznə̇s/, n, (Definition) a combination of the producing operations of a farm, the manufacture and distribution of farm equipment and supplies, and the processing, storage, and distribution of farm commodities. (Sentence) Agribusiness in Great Britain was profoundly affected by the foot-and-mouth epidemic of 2001.

acme

/'akmē/, n, (Definition) the highest point or stage (as of growth or development). (Sentence) Many of her fans think Barbra Streisand is at the acme of the music profession.

axle

/'aksәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: axil, axle ] a spindle that enables a wheel or pair of wheels to revolve. (Sentence) Mike called a tow truck after the rear axle on his car was damaged in a collision.

alnico

/'alnə̇,kō/, n, (Definition) a powerful permanent-magnet alloy containing iron, nickel, aluminum, and one or more of the elements cobalt, copper, and titanium. (Sentence) Mr. Arkin's factory makes industrial magnets from alnico.

avalanche

/'avә,lanch/, n, (Definition) a large mass of snow, ice, earth, rock, or other material in swift motion down a mountainside. (Sentence) The tiny Swiss village was destroyed by an avalanche.

obelisk

/'äbә,lisk/, n, (Definition) an upright four-sided monolithic pillar that tapers as it rises and terminates in a pyramid. (Sentence) The Washington Monument is a world-famous obelisk.

oxygen

/'äksə̇jə̇n/, n, (Definition) a nonmetallic element that is normally a colorless odorless tasteless nonflammable gas, is the most abundant of the elements on Earth, and occurs in air and water, in most common rocks and minerals, and in a great variety of organic compounds. (Sentence) Oxygen is the second most abundant element in Earth's atmosphere.

oxidize

/'äksә,dīz/, v, (Definition) combine with oxygen or with more oxygen. (Sentence) The sodium hypochlorite in bleach can oxidize the color-bearing substances in stains.

ingenue

/'änjә,nü/, n, (Definition) a stage part representing a character that is youthful, innocent, appealing, sweet, and sympathetic. (Sentence) Stephanie was one of three students called back in the tryouts for the ingenue in the school's spring musical.

honorable

/'änәr(ә)bәl/, adj, (Definition) ethical, upright. (Sentence) Steve ran an honorable campaign for sheriff.

osseous

/'äsēәs/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: Aussies] composed of or resembling bone : bony. (Sentence) The oyster is protected by its osseous shell.

osprey

/'äsprē/, n, (Definition) a large hawk that is a dark brown color above and mostly pure white below and feeds on fish that it captures by hovering and diving. (Sentence) Because of its preferred diet, the osprey is also called a "fish hawk."

ossicle

/'äsə̇kәl/, n, (Definition) any of certain small bones. (Sentence) The sports doctor told Nate that an ossicle in his left ear had been damaged by the blow from his opponent.

bascule

/'ba,skyül/, n, (Definition) an apparatus or structure in which one end is counterbalanced by the other on the principle of the seesaw or by weights (as in a bascule bridge). (Sentence) The castle architect proposed building a bascule over the moat.

unicorn

/'yünә,kŏrn/, n, (Definition) a fabulous animal possibly based on faulty old descriptions of the rhinoceros and generally depicted with the body and head of a horse, the hind legs of a stag, the tail of a lion, and in the middle of the forehead a single long straight horn. (Sentence) Sarah has a poster of a beautiful white unicorn on her wall.

zephyr

/'zefә(r)/, n, (Definition) a soft warm breeze from the west. (Sentence) The gentle zephyr was not sufficient to keep Renee's kite airborne.

zeppelin

/'zep(ә)lə̇n/, n, (Definition) a rigid airship. (Sentence) Olga's dream was to ride in a zeppelin one day.

genre

/'zhä(n)nrә/, n, (Definition) a category of artistic composition characterized by a particular style, form, or content. (Sentence) Most of the director's work has been in the genre of science fiction.

zymurgy

/'zī,mәrjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of applied chemistry that deals with fermentation processes. (Sentence) The chemist had performed many experiments in zymurgy before taking the job at the brewery.

xylem

/'zīlə̇m/, n, (Definition) a complex tissue in the vascular system of higher plants. (Sentence) The xylem of a tree functions chiefly in conduction of sap but also performs a structural and storage role.

xylophone

/'zīlә,fōn/, n, (Definition) a musical instrument consisting of a series of wooden bars graduated in length and sounded by striking with two small wooden hammers. (Sentence) Many African musical instruments are variations of the xylophone.

umbrage

/'әmbrij/, n, (Definition) displeasure, resentment, annoyance. (Sentence) Hatred between nations disposes each more readily to offer insult and injury and lay hold of slight causes of umbrage.

bacteriology

/(,)bak,tirē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) a science that deals with the study of bacteria and with their relations to medicine, industry, and agriculture. (Sentence) Mrs. Murry has doctorial degrees in both biology and bacteriology.

burgoo

/(,)bәr'gü/, n, (Definition) a savory highly seasoned stew or thick soup containing several kinds of meat and vegetables originally served at political rallies, barbecues, picnics, and community occasions. (Sentence) Everyone looks forward to eating burgoo at Drew's Derby Day party.

phthisiology

/,thizē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with physiology.] the care, treatment, and study of tuberculosis. (Sentence) The expert in phthisiology reported that up to 15 million Americans are estimated to have latent tuberculosis infections.

bravura

/brә'v(y)ůrә/, n, (Definition) a show of daring or brilliancy. (Sentence) The crowd cheered the aerialist for his bravura.

meridian

/mə̇'ridēәn/, n, (Definition) a great circle of the celestial sphere passing through its poles and the zenith of a given place. (Sentence) The apparent solar day is measured by the interval of time between two successive passages of the Sun across the observer's celestial meridian.

injunction

/ə̇n'jәŋ(k)shәn/, n, (Definition) a writ granted by a court of equity whereby one is required to do or to refrain from doing a specified act. (Sentence) The court issued a temporary injunction against the sale of the allegedly forged work of art.

inquisitor

/ə̇n'kwizәd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a person whose official duty is to examine and inquire. (Sentence) When the inquisitor asked a very personal question, the witness glared at him and remained silent.

incurrable

/ə̇n'kәrәbәl/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: incurable] liable to be brought down upon oneself. (Sentence) When laws are violated, penalties are incurrable.

enlightened

/ə̇n'lītənd/, adj, (Definition) freed from ignorance and misinformation. (Sentence) The professors claimed to be an enlightened group of individuals.

incendiary

/ə̇n'sendē,erē/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with incendiarist.] a person who deliberately sets fire to a building or other property. (Sentence) The state fire inspectors determined that the fire was the work of an incendiary.

insinuate

/ə̇n'sinyә,wāt/, v, (Definition) impart or communicate with artful indirect wording or oblique reference : hint, imply. (Sentence) Did April insinuate that she won't be inviting Dante to the party?

interstice

/ə̇n'tәrstə̇s/, n, (Definition) a space that intervenes between one thing and another : a space between things closely set. (Sentence) The tightly-woven cloth looked solid, but a sharp needle easily found an interstice to slip through.

inviscate

/ə̇n'vi,skāt/, v, (Definition) encase in a sticky substance : make viscid. (Sentence) When Lauren learned that some hunters smear birdlime on branches to inviscate birds, she became enraged.

invidious

/ə̇n'vidēәs/, adj, (Definition) of an unpleasant or objectionable nature : hateful. (Sentence) It is not uncommon for Sean to respond with invidious remarks that may or may not be true.

oblique

/ә'blēk/, adj, (Definition) neither perpendicular nor parallel : having a slanting direction or position. (Sentence) All triangles have at least one oblique side.

obliterable

/ә'blid.әrәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being removed from existence or destroyed. (Sentence) Fortunately, the actor's flubbed lines were obliterable from the videotape.

opprobrious

/ә'prōbrēәs/, adj, (Definition) conveying or intending to convey disgrace. (Sentence) The principal denounced the vandals in opprobrious terms.

Word

Pronunciation, POS, (Definition) Definition (Sentence) Sentence

hydrophobia

/,hīdrә'fōbēә/, n, (Definition) an acute viral disease of the nervous system of warm-blooded animals that is fatal when untreated and is transmitted with infected saliva usually through the bite of an animal : rabies. (Sentence) In recent years many raccoons have succumbed to hydrophobia.

hyperborean

/,hīpә(r)'bōrēәn/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or inhabiting an extreme northern region : frigid. (Sentence) Polar bears are among the few animals that can survive in hyperborean regions.

hypertrophic

/,hīpәr'träfik/, adj, (Definition) affected with or tending toward overgrowth or excessive development of an organ or part. (Sentence) After Blake lost one kidney, the other became hypertrophic.

hyetology

/,hīә'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of meteorology that deals with precipitation (as of rain or snow). (Sentence) Even a period of extended drought can be of interest to a student of hyetology.

inundation

/,i(,)nәn'dāshәn/, n, (Definition) a rising and spreading of water over land not usually submerged : a flood. (Sentence) As the river swelled with snowmelt, the levees protected the fields from inundation.

innocuity

/,i,nä'kyüәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being harmless. (Sentence) Thelma was wary of the seeming innocuity of her sister's remarks.

idiomatically

/,idēә'mad.ə̇k(ә) lē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner conforming to the language peculiar to a people or to a district, community, or class. (Sentence) The immigrant student quickly learned to speak English idiomatically.

idiopathic

/,idēә'pathik/, adj, (Definition) arising spontaneously or from an obscure or unknown cause. (Sentence) After carefully examining Leila, the doctor announced that her sudden hearing loss was idiopathic and might disappear with time.

ichthyology

/,ikJē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of zoology that deals with fishes. (Sentence) Mr. Pout didn't need a degree in ichthyology to see that he had caught a dead branch.

importune

/,impәr'tün/, v, (Definition) press or urge with frequent or unreasonable requests or troublesome persistence. (Sentence) The political organization was asked not to importune shoppers to sign petitions in front of the store.

incienso

/,in(t)sē'en(t)(,)s ō/, n, (Definition) a desert shrub producing a resin that when burned emits a fragrant odor. (Sentence) Early missionaries in the Southwest used to burn incienso in their churches.

incorporeity

/,in,kŏ(r)pә'rēәd. ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of having no material body or form. (Sentence) The students in the introductory physics class were puzzled by the incorporeity of the photon.

inactivity

/,inak'tivәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being not given to action or effort : idleness, sluggishness. (Sentence) Too much inactivity can affect mental as well as physical health.

incorruptible

/,inkә'rәptәbәl/, adj, (Definition) incapable of being bribed or changed from good to bad in morals, manners, or actions. (Sentence) The local police force prided itself on being incorruptible.

incompatible

/,inkәm'pad.әbәl /, adj, (Definition) incapable of harmonious combination. (Sentence) Marriage would not do for Emma; it would be incompatible with what she owed to her father.

interlocutor

/,intә(r)'läkyәd.ә (r)/, n, (Definition) one who takes part in a dialogue or conversation. (Sentence) The seminar leader instructed everyone to choose an interlocutor and discuss the video one-on-one.

intermezzo

/,intә(r)'met(,)sō /, n, (Definition) a movement coming between the major sections of a symphony or other extended work. (Sentence) The singers were able to take a break while the orchestra played the intermezzo.

intermolecular

/,intә(r)mә'lekyә lәr/, adj, (Definition) existing or acting between molecules. (Sentence) The van der Waals equation takes into account the intermolecular forces exerted on a molecule by neighboring molecules.

instauration

/,inz,tŏ'rāshәn/, n, (Definition) restoration after decay, lapse, or dilapidation. (Sentence) The instauration of the Statue of Liberty was a long and complicated project.

inspirometer

/,inzpə̇'rämәd.ә( r)/, n, (Definition) an apparatus for measuring air inhaled in breathing. (Sentence) The nurse used an inspirometer on Mr.Davis during his checkup.

ineluctable

/,inə̇'lәktәbәl/, adj, (Definition) not to be avoided, changed, or resisted : inevitable. (Sentence) Mrs. Badger joked that death and taxes are the only two ineluctable aspects of life.

admiral

/'adm(ә)rәl/, n, (Definition) a naval officer of high rank. (Sentence) Petty Officer Pritchard saluted the admiral and continued to her post.

allegory

/'alə̇,gōrē/, n, (Definition) a story in which people, things, and happenings have a hidden or symbolic meaning. (Sentence) Gail disliked the moralistic tone of the allegory.

ambrette

/'am,bret/, n, (Definition) a French dessert pear having a musky odor. (Sentence) The featured dessert at Le Chateau Rouge was poached ambrette with whipped cream.

amphora

/'amfәrә/, n, (Definition) a Greek unit of capacity equal to 10.3 gallons or 39 liters. (Sentence) The group ordered 1 amphora of punch for the Antiquity Party.

amulet

/'amyәlə̇t/, n, (Definition) an inscribed charm believed to protect or aid the wearer. (Sentence) The archaeologist discovered an amulet in the tomb of an ancient Egyptian ruler.

ineludible

/,inә'lüdәbәl/, adj, (Definition) inescapable. (Sentence) Detective Marchand's bloodhounds were considered by many to be ineludible.

amaranth

/'amә,ran(t)th/, n, (Definition) a dark reddish purple. (Sentence) Justin wanted to buy a green sofa, but his wife preferred to decorate the living room in amaranth and beige.

irretrievably

/,irə̇'trēvәblē/, adv, (Definition) so as to be impossible to recoup, repair, or overcome. (Sentence) Environmentalists bemoan the irretrievably lost sections of the rain forest.

antelope

/'antəl,ōp/, n, (Definition) any of various ruminant mammals of Africa and southwest Asia that differ from the true oxen especially in lighter racier build and horns directed upward and backward. (Sentence) The bounding antelope managed to outdistance the pursuing lion.

apoplexy

/'apә,pleksē/, n, (Definition) a sudden loss of consciousness followed by paralysis caused by hemorrhage within the brain—called also "stroke." (Sentence) When Ray regained consciousness, his doctor told him he was recovering from severe apoplexy.

aileron

/'ālә,rän/, n, (Definition) a movable portion of an airplane wing or a movable airfoil external to the wing for imparting a rolling motion and thus providing lateral control. (Sentence) An aileron is usually situated at the trailing edge of an airplane's wing near the wing tip.

arcing

/'ärkiŋ/, v, (Definition) following or describing a curving course. (Sentence) Waterfalls arcing outward into white plumes plummet down and flow into Cayuga Lake.

arsenic

/'ärs(ə)nik/, n, (Definition) a metalloid element that is used in small amounts in alloys and in the form of its compounds chiefly as poisons (as insecticides), in pharmaceutical preparations, and in glass. (Sentence) Ingestion of arsenic was listed as the official cause of Tim's mysterious death.

background

/'bak,graůnd/, n, (Definition) a position away from that which holds the center of attention. (Sentence) Darby's parents stayed in the background during her party.

bandalore

/'bandә,lō(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a toy with an automatically winding cord by which it is brought back to the hand when thrown. (Sentence) Jeffrey brought a bandalore to school for show-and- tell.

bastion

/'baschәn/, n, (Definition) a projecting part of a fortification. (Sentence) Matthew paused at the castle bastion to look out over the countryside.

basilisk

/'basә,lisk/, n, (Definition) a legendary reptile that has a fatal breath and glance. (Sentence) Jessie debated whether to incorporate a basilisk or a poisonous snake into her fable.

Bauhaus

/'baů,haůs/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or influenced by a school of design in Weimar in 1919. (Sentence) The area's newest ski lodge is a mixture of Bauhaus and Danish modern.

baste

/'bāst/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: based] sew by hand or machine with long loose stitches in order to hold in place during fittings or for final stitching. (Sentence) Lorna's sister showed her how to baste the hem of the dress before she tried it on.

bartizan

/'bärd.әzәn/, n, (Definition) a small structure overhanging or projecting from a building for lookout or defense. (Sentence) The guard posted at the bartizan was the first to spot the approaching army.

barrio

/'bärē,ō/, n, (Definition) a Spanish-speaking neighborhood or quarter in a city or town in the United States especially in the Southwest. (Sentence) The politician continually reminded the public of his roots in the barrio.

botanist

/'bät(ə)nə̇st/, n, (Definition) a professional student of plants. (Sentence) A botanist identified the mysterious plant growing behind Alysia's garage.

bergschrund

/'berk,shrůnt/, n, (Definition) a deep and often broad crevasse or series of such crevasses frequently occurring near the head of a mountain glacier. (Sentence) The rescuers descended into the bergschrund to reach the injured mountain climber.

beaker

/'bēkә(r)/, n, (Definition) a deep openmouthed thin vessel that often has a projecting lip for pouring and is used especially by chemists and pharmacists. (Sentence) As Frank reached for the pipette, he knocked an acid- filled beaker off the lab bench.

billeted

/'bilə̇d.ə̇d/, v, (Definition) served with an official order directing that a member of a military force be provided with board and lodging (as in a private home). (Sentence) During the Civil War it was not uncommon for homeowners to be billeted.

bayou

/'bī,(y)ü/, n, (Definition) a creek, secondary watercourse, or minor river that is tributary to another river or other body of water. (Sentence) Dale's grandfather lives near a bayou in southern Alabama.

blasphemous

/'blasfәmәs/, adj, (Definition) speaking or writing irreverence toward God. (Sentence) During the Middle Ages many books were condemned as blasphemous and burned.

blatherskite

/'blathә(r),skīt/, n, (Definition) a blustering, talkative, and often incompetent person. (Sentence) With Jay's luck, the biggest blatherskite in the theater will sit directly behind him.

blather

/'blathә(r)/, n, (Definition) voluble, foolish, or nonsensical talk. (Sentence) Matt's announcement consisted of 10 percent information and 90 percent blather.

bawcock

/'bŏ,käk/, n, (Definition) a fine fellow. (Sentence) "How art thou today, good bawcock?" inquired Theo.

brannigan

/'branə̇gәn/, n, (Definition) a difference of opinion : controversy, squabble. (Sentence) A rousing brannigan erupted at the dinner table.

bradyseism

/'brādē,sīzәm/, n, (Definition) a slow quiet upward or downward movement of Earth's crust. (Sentence) The outskirts of Naples have been afflicted by bradyseism since a 1980 earthquake.

broach

/'brōch/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: brooch] open up (a subject) for discussion or debate. (Sentence) No one dares broach the subject of politics in front of Monique.

Buddhism

/'bů,dizәm/, n, (Definition) a religion of eastern and central Asia. (Sentence) Buddhism has spread from its original home in Asia to all corners of the globe.

butte

/'byüt/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: beaut] an isolated hill or small mountain with steep or precipitous sides that usually has a smaller summit area than does a mesa. (Sentence) A butte erodes mostly from its sides because its uppermost layers consist of hard rock and resist weathering.

buffeting

/'bәfə̇d.iŋ/, n, (Definition) repeated alteration of the aerodynamic forces acting on any part of an airplane in flight. (Sentence) Chuck Yeager's plane was subject to severe buffeting as it approached the sound barrier.

burble

/'bәrbәl/, v, (Definition) become turbulent. (Sentence) In the wind-tunnel tests, Hans could see the air burble off the left wing.

burgher

/'bәrgәr/, n, (Definition) a resident of a town : townsman. (Sentence) Every burgher showed up for Springfield's fireworks display.

burly

/'bәrlē/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: burley] strongly built : stout, sturdy. (Sentence) The director chose Harry for the part of the construction worker because of his burly appearance.

bursar

/'bәrsәr/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with purser.] an administrative officer (as of a monastery or college) in charge of funds : treasurer. (Sentence) The bill for the new gym floor was submitted to the school's bursar.

busby

/'bәzbē/, n, (Definition) a military full-dress hat made of fur with a bag usually of cloth of the color of the facings of the regiment hanging from the top on the right. (Sentence) The drum major strutted proudly in his white uniform and black busby.

bungalow

/'bәŋgә,lō/, n, (Definition) a lightly built single-story house or cottage. (Sentence) Wendy's dream vacation includes renting a bungalow on a South Pacific island.

chancellor

/'chan(t)s(ә)lә(r) /, n, (Definition) a university officer of high rank. (Sentence) Professor Burns has all the requirements to be the next chancellor of Highland College.

changa

/'chaŋgә/, n, (Definition) a large brown mole cricket. (Sentence) The changa is a destructive pest to crops.

duarchy

/'d(y)ü,ärkē/, n, (Definition) a government by two rulers having equal power. (Sentence) Critics accused the governor of establishing a duarchy with her husband.

dupes

/'d(y)üps/, n pl, (Definition) puppets or tools especially of a powerful person or idea. (Sentence) In his "Four Freedoms" speech, Franklin D. Roosevelt warned about the presence of secret agents and their dupes.

deuce

/'d(y)üs/, n, (Definition) [has near homonyms: do's, dues] a tie in tennis in points toward a game or in games requiring scoring of two consecutive points by one side to win the game or set. (Sentence) The first point won in tennis after deuce is called "advantage in" if won by the server, "advantage out" if won by the receiver.

dahlia

/'dalyә/, n, (Definition) a plant of a genus of tuberous-rooted herbs having rayed flower heads. (Sentence) The brightly colored flowers of the dahlia can be six inches in diameter.

doughty

/'daůd.ē/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: dowdy] marked by fearless resolution and by stoutness in contest or struggle : valiant. (Sentence) Daniel was a soldier's soldier—rough, tough, and doughty.

dachshund

/'däks,hůnt/, n, (Definition) a small dog of a breed of German origin having long drooping ears, commonly a short sleek coat, and the legs short in comparison with the body length. (Sentence) Chloe has a brown dachshund named "Oscar."

docudrama

/'däkyů,drämә/, n, (Definition) a drama for television, motion pictures, or theater dealing freely with historical events and especially those of a recent and controversial nature. (Sentence) The docudrama deals with the trial of a scientist accused of espionage.

domino

/'dämә,nō/, n, (Definition) a flat rectangular block of bone, ivory, wood, or plastic the face of which is divided into two equal parts called "ends" which are blank or bear from one to six dots, used in a set of 28 to play a game in which the ends are matched. (Sentence) As a joke, Grandpa hid a domino before asking Billy if he'd like to play.

danza

/'dän(t)sә/, n, (Definition) a formal, stately dance. (Sentence) The bewigged actors in the commedia dell'arte began a slow danza on the stage.

dextral

/'dekstrәl/, adj, (Definition) right-handed. (Sentence) Little Lucas kept trying to use dextral scissors with his left hand but was always frustrated.

dexter

/'dekstә(r)/, adj, (Definition) being or relating to the side of a heraldic shield at the right of the person wearing it. (Sentence) The coat of arms had, among other things, a dexter motto.

deluge

/'del(,)yüj/, n, (Definition) a drenching rain : downpour. (Sentence) The children were caught in a deluge as they waited for the school bus.

demigod

/'demē,gäd/, n, (Definition) a mythological divine or semidivine being (as the offspring of a deity and a mortal) thought to possess less power than a god. (Sentence) The hero Gilgamesh was a demigod in ancient Babylonian mythology.

demitasse

/'demē,tas/, n, (Definition) a small cup of coffee usually taken black. (Sentence) Nathan sipped nervously at a demitasse while he waited for his attorney.

demiurge

/'demē,әrj/, n, (Definition) something (as an institution, idea, or individual) conceived as an autonomous creative force or decisive power. (Sentence) It is surprising how many people tend to regard a computer as a demiurge.

dentifrice

/'dentәfrə̇s/, n, (Definition) a powder, paste, or liquid used in cleaning the teeth. (Sentence) John decided to use a dentifrice containing baking soda.

denizen

/'denәzәn/, n, (Definition) a dweller in a certain place or region. (Sentence) Melvin asked a local denizen for directions.

depredatory

/'deprәdә,tōrē/, adj, (Definition) tending to lay waste or prey upon : plundering. (Sentence) Following the earthquake, depredatory gangs looted many stores.

derelict

/'derә,likt/, n, (Definition) a thing voluntarily abandoned by its owner with the intention of not retaking it and rightly claimed by the first person who takes possession of it; specifically : a boat abandoned on the high seas. (Sentence) Tom sank his yacht when his rescuers arrived lest it become a derelict.

destrier

/'destrēәr/, n, (Definition) a large powerful horse used as a war-horse by a medieval knight. (Sentence) The knight rapidly saddled his destrier and galloped off to battle the invaders.

desiccate

/'desə̇,kāt/, v, (Definition) [has near homonym: desecrate] dry up or cause to dry up : deprive or exhaust of moisture. (Sentence) The hot sunshine and the dry wind combined to desiccate Martha's tomato plants.

decistere

/'desə̇,sti(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a metric unit of capacity equal to 1/10 cubic meter. (Sentence) Caleb bought a decistere of lime for his front lawn.

decibel

/'desә,bel/, n, (Definition) a unit for measuring the relative loudness of sounds equal approximately to the smallest degree of difference of loudness ordinarily detectable by the human ear. (Sentence) Differences of one decibel can be important to a recording engineer.

decimate

/'desә,māt/, v, (Definition) select by lot and kill every tenth person of. (Sentence) The terrorist promised to decimate the group of hostages every half hour until his demands were met.

dengue

/'deŋ(,)gē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: dinghy] an acute infectious disease characterized by sudden onset, headache, racking joint pain, and a rash and caused by a virus transmitted by mosquitoes. (Sentence) The African village was quarantined after an outbreak of dengue.

diphthong

/'dif,thŏŋ/, n, (Definition) a gliding monosyllabic sound that starts at or near the articulatory position for one vowel and moves to or toward the position for another. (Sentence) Many people do not pronounce the diphthong in the word realtor correctly.

diffident

/'difәdәnt/, adj, (Definition) lacking confidence in oneself : distrustful of one's own powers. (Sentence) Emma was always quick and assured; her sister was slow and diffident.

dingy

/'dinjē/, adj, (Definition) dirty, soiled, discolored. (Sentence) The bird flapped its dingy wings and flew off in a cascade of dust and dirt and fuzz.

distal

/'distəl/, adj, (Definition) located away from the center of the body. (Sentence) The professor asked the students to identify the distal and proximal ends of several bones.

dissipated

/'disә,pād.ə̇d/, v, (Definition) dispelled, dissolved. (Sentence) Mr. Knightley walked in soon after tea and dissipated every melancholy fancy.

diagnose

/'dīə̇g,nōs/, v, (Definition) identify a condition by evaluating its signs and symptoms. (Sentence) Dr. Morris was reluctant to diagnose Tina's condition until he had the test results.

docent

/'dōsənt/, n, (Definition) a person who guides groups through a museum or art gallery and discusses and comments on the exhibits. (Sentence) Judd's interest in ancient history was sparked by a knowledgeable docent during a field trip to a museum.

dorcastry

/'dŏrkәs,trē/, n, (Definition) a church auxiliary organized to plan and execute benevolent work. (Sentence) The dorcastry served free Thanksgiving dinners for the homeless.

dreidel

/'drādəl/, n, (Definition) a four-sided die that revolves like a spinning top, that is marked on each side with a different Hebrew letter, and that is used as a toy especially during the Hanukkah festival. (Sentence) Evan gave each of his classmates a dreidel after presenting his report on traditions associated with Hanukkah.

dromedary

/'drämә,derē/, n, (Definition) a camel of unusual speed, bred and trained especially for riding, and having a single large hump on the back. (Sentence) Camel rides at the zoo featured a dromedary.

drogue

/'drōg/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: drog] a sea anchor (as a canvas bag with a hooped mouth) used to reduce the speed of a boat and keep her head into the wind. (Sentence) The captain yelled at the crew to lower the drogue while he signaled the other boat.

dullard

/'dәlә(r)d/, n, (Definition) a stupid person. (Sentence) Barry apologized for rashly calling James a dullard.

dunnage

/'dәnij/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with tonnage, tunnage.] cushioning or padding used in a shipping container to protect fragile articles against shock and breakage. (Sentence) Mother used popcorn as dunnage in her gift boxes to her family in Germany.

eclogue

/'e,klŏg/, n, (Definition) a poem in which shepherds are introduced conversing. (Sentence) The bucolic view of meadows and hills inspired Shelley to compose an eclogue.

elderly

/'eldә(r)lē/, adj, (Definition) rather advanced in years. (Sentence) An elderly lady lived in a huge old house on the edge of town and never came out except for food and church.

elytra

/'elә,trә/, n pl, (Definition) the thickened sclerotized anterior wings in beetles and some other insects that protect and cover the posterior wings. (Sentence) At least 250,000 species of insects have hardened wing covers called "elytra."

envoy

/'en,vŏi/, n, (Definition) any person delegated to represent one sovereign or government in its relations with another. (Sentence) The Enterprise conveyed the envoy to the peace conference without incident.

enmity

/'enmәd.ē/, n, (Definition) hostility, animosity. (Sentence) The enmity which Mr. and Mrs. Elton dared not show in open disrespect to Miss Woodhouse found a broader vent in contemptuous treatment of her best friend.

epicenter

/'epə̇sentә(r)/, n, (Definition) the part of Earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake. (Sentence) An earthquake whose epicenter is on the ocean floor may cause a tsunami.

epigram

/'epә,gram/, n, (Definition) a short poem with a witty or satirical point. (Sentence) Kelly kept a calendar on her desk that gave a humorous epigram for each day of the year.

epilepsy

/'epә,lepsē/, n, (Definition) a chronic nervous disorder of humans and other animals that involves changes in the state of consciousness and of motion. (Sentence) Epilepsy is sometimes caused by glandular disturbances.

epicede

/'epә,sēd/, n, (Definition) a funeral song or ode. (Sentence) The poet laureate composed an epicede for the queen's funeral.

epithet

/'epә,thet/, n, (Definition) a disparaging or abusive word or phrase. (Sentence) Donnie apologized for shouting an epithet at Mr. Garibaldi.

ergophobe

/'ergә,fōb/, n, (Definition) one suffering from fear of or aversion to work. (Sentence) Willy, a self-proclaimed couch potato, claims to be an ergophobe.

heiress

/'erə̇s/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: eros] a female who inherits or is entitled to inherit great wealth. (Sentence) Antoine dreamed that he married an heiress and moved to an island.

estuary

/'es(h)chә,werē/, n, (Definition) a water passage where the tide meets the current of a stream. (Sentence) Small boats were warned not to travel the estuary without aid.

escritoire

/'eskrә,twär/, n, (Definition) a piece of furniture resembling a bureau and providing a writing surface or desk area behind a hinged front that drops down. (Sentence) Jennifer bought a valuable 18th-century escritoire at Sotheby's.

esplanade

/'esplә,näd/, n, (Definition) a level open stretch of paved or grassy ground; especially : one designed for walking or driving and often providing a vista (as over water). (Sentence) Carole decided to go for a stroll on the esplanade before dinner.

espadrille

/'espә,dril/, n, (Definition) a flat sandal having a fabric upper and a flexible often rope sole. (Sentence) Marsha put on her other espadrille and headed for the beach.

essence

/'esən(t)s/, n, (Definition) an extract (as from fruit) used as flavoring in cooking. (Sentence) Tatiana could taste the pomegranate essence in the cake's frosting.

fathom

/'fathәm/, n, (Definition) a unit of length equal to 6 feet based on the distance between fingertips of a man's outstretched arms and used especially for measuring the depth of water. (Sentence) The fathom, once standard on British admiralty charts, has been replaced by the meter.

phalanx

/'fā,laŋks/, n, (Definition) a group or body in close formation. (Sentence) Sarah craned her neck in wonder as the phalanx of military jets flew over in tight formation.

pharos

/'fā,räs/, n, (Definition) a lighthouse or beacon to guide seamen. (Sentence) Leland said the restaurant acted like a pharos for all those at sea off the tip of the island.

fabiform

/'fābә,fŏrm/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: faviform] shaped like a bean. (Sentence) Jodie is having a fabiform swimming pool installed in her backyard.

fain

/'fān/, adv, (Definition) [has homonym: feign] happily, joyfully : with glad preference. (Sentence) The feisty cat would fain have chased the dog from his yard.

phon

/'fän/, n, (Definition) level on a scale beginning at 0 for the faintest audible sound and corresponding to the decibel scale of sound intensity. (Sentence) Jared fervently wished that his baby brother would cry at just 1 phon.

foppery

/'fäp(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) folly, absurdity. (Sentence) There was an air of foppery and nonsense in Mr. Churchill's action of which Emma could not approve.

fossilize

/'fäsә,līz/, v, (Definition) turn (as remains of organisms from past geologic eras) into a mineralized form in Earth's crust. (Sentence) Since not all plant materials fossilize equally well, some plants will be preserved and others will vanish in the course of time.

pfeffernuss

/'fefә(r),nüs/, n, (Definition) a small hard highly spiced cookie made traditionally for the Christmas holidays. (Sentence) The aroma of pfeffernuss in the oven brought back memories of Christmas to the old man.

ferret

/'ferə̇t/, n, (Definition) a semidomesticated variety of the European polecat. (Sentence) Carl's ferret comes to him for a reward every time he squeezes a squeaky toy.

flibbertigibbet

/'flibә(r)d.ē,jibə̇t /, n, (Definition) a light-minded or silly restless person. (Sentence) Mrs. French proved far less of a flibbertigibbet than the world took her to be.

flaunting

/'flŏntiŋ/, v, (Definition) seeking to attract attention especially by appearing or acting brash and brazen. (Sentence) During the party Terry seemed to be flaunting his ability to play piano.

folkloric

/'fōk,lōrik/, adj, (Definition) of, resembling, or characteristic of traditional customs, beliefs, dances, songs, tales, or sayings preserved among a people or group. (Sentence) The Slovakian dance troupe performed a folkloric dance wearing colorful costumes.

forestry

/'fŏrə̇strē/, n, (Definition) a science of developing, caring for, or cultivating tracts of wooded land : the management of growing timber. (Sentence) The pulp and paper mill wishes to hire an individual with a master's degree in forestry.

frankincense

/'fraŋkə̇n,sen(t)s /, n, (Definition) a gum resin containing volatile oil. (Sentence) Aunt Ruby likes to burn frankincense at Christmastime.

frail

/'frāl/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] the quantity (as 32, 56, or 75 pounds) of raisins contained in a shipping basket. (Sentence) While working in the agricultural records office, Wanda learned that a frail is used to measure raisins.

fronton

/'frän,tän/, n, (Definition) a court or building for the game of jai alai. (Sentence) The fronton looked bigger on television than in actuality.

phrenic

/'frenik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the mind. (Sentence) Julia was more concerned with her son's phrenic development than with his physical skills.

feud

/'fyüd/, n, (Definition) a relationship of aggressive hostility : quarrel. (Sentence) A feud over the property boundaries developed between the two families.

fuguist

/'fyügə̇st/, n, (Definition) one who composes or performs fugues. (Sentence) As a fuguist, Johann Sebastian Bach has never been excelled.

fugitives

/'fyüjәd.ivz/, n pl, (Definition) individuals who run away from a master or employer or from uncongenial surroundings. (Sentence) Sojourner Truth, one of the many fugitives from slavery, became as famous for advocating women's rights as she was for denouncing human bondage.

fuchsias

/'fyüshәz/, n pl, (Definition) any of numerous decorative shrubs with pendulous tetramerous flowers often cultivated as potted plants. (Sentence) Grandma lined her windowsill with fuchsias.

fusion

/'fyüzhәn/, n, (Definition) a merging of diverse elements into a unified whole. (Sentence) The spicy pasta dish Fran ordered was a fusion of Italian and Thai cuisine.

fumblingly

/'fәmbliŋlē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner marked by groping or clumsiness. (Sentence) Katie fumblingly related her excuse to her father.

gabbro

/'ga(,)brō/, n, (Definition) a rock of a family of granular igneous rocks. (Sentence) An outcropping of gabbro showed through the soil.

gambol

/'gambәl/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: gamble] bound or spring as in dancing or play. (Sentence) Susan watched the fawns gambol in the field.

gatherum

/'gathәrәm/, n, (Definition) a collection of miscellaneous items. (Sentence) Alan referred to his assortment of beach glass and driftwood as a "gatherum," but his mother called it "Alan's junk."

gauleiter

/'gaů,līd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a political functionary occupying a subordinate but important position in a totalitarian regime. (Sentence) The memoirs of the gauleiter contained little of historical importance.

gout

/'gaůt/, n, (Definition) a metabolic disease marked by a painful inflammation of the fibrous and ligamentous parts of the joints. (Sentence) Poor old John is bedridden with the rheumatic gout in his joints.

gangrene

/'gaŋ,grēn/, n, (Definition) local death of soft tissues (as from disease, injury, or infection) resulting from loss of blood supply. (Sentence) The soldier knew that if gangrene set in, his wounded leg would need to be amputated.

gegenschein

/'gāgәn,shīn/, n, (Definition) a faint elliptical nebulous light about 20 degrees across on the ecliptic and opposite the Sun. (Sentence) The gegenschein is lost in the light of the Milky Way in the summer and winter.

Gaelic

/'gālik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or characteristic of the language of the Gaels or especially of the Celtic Highlanders of Scotland. (Sentence) Steve struggled through the Gaelic program for the Highland Games before he discovered the English translation.

gramophile

/'gramә,fīl/, n, (Definition) a lover and protector of old phonograph records. (Sentence) Earl became a real gramophile after inheriting his uncle's record collection.

grimace

/'grimə̇s/, n, (Definition) a deliberate or involuntary distortion of the face expressive of some feeling (as contempt, disapprobation, complacency). (Sentence) The camera caught Allie's grimace during the pep rally.

grope

/'grōp/, v, (Definition) search about blindly or uncertainly. (Sentence) The daydreaming student had to grope for an answer when the teacher asked him a question.

gulag

/'gü,läg/, n, (Definition) the penal system of the former Soviet Union consisting of a network of labor camps. (Sentence) Stalin chose a 15th-century monastery as the site for the first labor camp of the gulag.

gutturalize

/'gәd.әrәlīz/, v, (Definition) pronounce or utter with sounds articulated in the throat. (Sentence) Because of her German background, Ursula has a tendency to gutturalize certain words.

halide

/'ha,līd/, n, (Definition) a binary compound of a halogen with a more electropositive element or radical. (Sentence) By combining with hydrogen, an atom of fluorine forms a hydrogen halide.

haberdasher

/'habә(r),dashә(r )/, n, (Definition) a dealer in men's furnishings (as shirts, ties, hats). (Sentence) Another upscale haberdasher has opened a shop on Brighton Street.

hackamore

/'hakә,mō(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a bridle that consists of a halter often of soft rope or braided horsehair and is used especially in breaking and training horses. (Sentence) Charlene pulled back on the hackamore and cried "Whoa!"

halophyte

/'halә,fīt/, n, (Definition) a plant that grows naturally in soils having a high content of various salts. (Sentence) Australian aborigines grind into flour the seeds of a halophyte that grows in the coastal mud flats.

handwrought

/'hand,rŏt/, adj, (Definition) fashioned by hand or chiefly by hand processes. (Sentence) Barbie found a handwrought trivet at the garage sale.

haptic

/'hap,tik/, adj, (Definition) relating to or based on the sense of touch. (Sentence) The human body's haptic sensor is the skin.

handkerchief

/'haŋkә(r)chәf/, n, (Definition) a piece of cloth that is used for various personal purposes or as a costume accessory. (Sentence) Mr. Van Deventer bought a matching tie and handkerchief off the bargain rack.

holograph

/'hälә,graf/, n, (Definition) a document (as a letter, deed, or will) wholly in the handwriting of the person from whom it proceeds and whose act it purports to be. (Sentence) Amongst the early wills of Middlesex County, Roberta found many a fascinating holograph.

holocaust

/'hälә,kŏst/, n, (Definition) a complete or thorough sacrifice or destruction especially by fire. (Sentence) Many lives were lost in the hotel holocaust.

homburg

/'häm,bәrg/, n, (Definition) a man's hat of smooth-finished felt with a stiff curled brim and a high tapered crown creased lengthwise. (Sentence) The villain in the movie wore a dark suit and a black homburg.

hominoid

/'hämә,nŏid/, n, (Definition) resembling the family of mammals to which humans and their ancestors belong. (Sentence) Chewbacca has markedly hominoid features.

Harlequin

/'härlə̇k(w)ə̇n/, adj, (Definition) a stock character in comedy and pantomime who appears variously as a clown and a magician and usually wears a mask and variegated tights and carries a wooden sword. (Sentence) The children especially enjoyed the buffoonish antics of the Harlequin.

hostile

/'hästəl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: hostel] offering an unpleasant or forbidding environment. (Sentence) The snow and ice-covered mountains presented a hostile picture of the next segment of the journey.

hostelry

/'hästəlrē/, n, (Definition) a place where food and lodging are available to the traveler : inn, hotel. (Sentence) To celebrate their tenth anniversary, the Mortons returned to the French hostelry where they spent their honeymoon.

heifer

/'hefә(r)/, n, (Definition) a young cow. (Sentence) This year's blue-ribbon heifer belongs to Mrs. Cates.

hedgerow

/'hej,rō/, n, (Definition) a row of shrubs or trees enclosing or separating fields. (Sentence) The property belonging to the estate extended from the hedgerow at the left of the house to the stone pillar one mile down the road.

hedonism

/'hēdən,izәm/, n, (Definition) a way of life based on or suggesting the principle that pleasure or happiness is the sole or chief good in life. (Sentence) When André turned 30, he renounced his youthful hedonism.

heliophyte

/'hēlēә,fīt/, n, (Definition) a plant thriving in or tolerating full sunlight. (Sentence) The cactus is a good example of a heliophyte.

hemolymph

/'hēmә,lim(p)f/, n, (Definition) the circulatory fluid of various invertebrate animals that is functionally comparable to the blood and lymph of vertebrates. (Sentence) The hemolymph of insects is usually green, yellow, or colorless.

hymn

/'him/, n, (Definition) a song of praise to God. (Sentence) Wesley remembered every hymn from his days at the Episcopal school.

hymnody

/'himnәdē/, n, (Definition) a body of hymns of a specified kind or period. (Sentence) Gospel songs enjoy wide popularity in American hymnody.

hippogriff

/'hipә,grif/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with hippogriffin.] a legendary animal having the foreparts of a winged griffin and the body and hindquarters of a horse. (Sentence) The Gothic cathedral contained many strange carvings, including a hippogriff and several gargoyles.

hierophant

/'hī(ә)rә,fant/, n, (Definition) a priest in ancient Greece. (Sentence) The hierophant portrayed in Tim's history book was dressed in an animal skin and wore a crown of leaves.

hydrogenated

/'hīdrə̇ jə̇ ,nād.әd/, v, (Definition) combined with hydrogen. (Sentence) Vegetable oils that have been hydrogenated are used in making margarine.

hydrogen

/'hīdrə̇jәn/, n, (Definition) a nonmetallic element that is the simplest and lightest of the elements and which is normally a colorless, odorless, and highly flammable diatomic gas. (Sentence) Hydrogen and oxygen are the components of water.

hydrant

/'hīdrәnt/, n, (Definition) a discharge pipe with a valve and spout at which water may be drawn from the mains of waterworks. (Sentence) The city workers affixed a metal rod with a red diamond on the top of the hydrant in Mishi's yard so they would be able to find it if it snowed.

hindmost

/'hīn(d),mōst/, adj, (Definition) farthest in or toward the rear. (Sentence) Gary always sat in the hindmost pew in church.

hogan

/'hō,gän/, n, (Definition) a conical, hexagonal, or octagonal dwelling characteristic of the Navaho made with a door traditionally facing east and constructed of logs and sticks covered with mud, sod, or adobe or sometimes of stones. (Sentence) The modern-day hogan is primarily used not for housing but for family ceremonies and curings.

hoax

/'hōks/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: hokes] an act intended to trick or dupe : a piece of trickery. (Sentence) Sarah forwarded the e-mail message, unaware she was participating in a hoax.

hosiery

/'hōzh(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) stockings, socks. (Sentence) Mrs. Desmond prefers silk hosiery to that made of nylon.

haughtily

/'hŏd.əlē/, adv, (Definition) in a disdainfully proud or overbearing manner. (Sentence) Gertrude haughtily replied that she receives an allowance of 20 dollars per week.

hogshead

/'hŏgz,hed/, n, (Definition) a U.S. unit of capacity equal to 63 gallons. (Sentence) We grew enough apples in our backyard this year to yield 1 hogshead of cider.

haulage

/'hŏlij/, n, (Definition) a charge made for transporting something. (Sentence) Paul's final bill for his new car included haulage for transportation from the factory to the dealer.

junta

/'hůntә/, n, (Definition) [has somewhat near homonyms: hunter, junto] a closely knit group of persons composing or dominating a government especially after a revolutionary seizure of power. (Sentence) The military junta set up its headquarters in the former presidential palace.

whelked

/'hwelkt/, adj, (Definition) formed like the twisted shell of numerous marine mollusks : convoluted. (Sentence) The antelope had whelked horns that curved inward.

whistleable

/'hwisәlәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being whistled. (Sentence) Rufus could botch up even the most whistleable tune.

whirligig

/'hwәrlә,gig/, n, (Definition) a child's toy having a whirling or spinning motion. (Sentence) Sandy bought a whirligig at the dime store.

whortleberry

/'hwәrtəl,berē/, n, (Definition) a sweet edible European blueberry. (Sentence) The unripe whortleberry was too sour for Vernon to eat.

hubbub

/'hә,bәb/, n, (Definition) a noisy confusion of sound. (Sentence) In the hubbub after the concert, Bronwen did not notice the pickpocket who took her wallet.

hustings

/'hәstiŋz/, n pl, (Definition) an election platform : stump. (Sentence) After the political conventions, the election heated up as each party's nominee took to the hustings with renewed zeal.

iterance

/'id.әrәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with iterancy.] repetition, repetitiousness, recurrence. (Sentence) Carol noticed an iterance of the name Elizabeth in her genealogical chart.

icteric

/'ik,terik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or affected with jaundice. (Sentence) Hepatitis A is one common disease that has an icteric stage lasting from days to weeks.

immunocyte

/'imyәnә,sīt/, n, (Definition) a cell that functions in the prevention of a disease. (Sentence) The immunocyte is the body's primary defense against germs.

immanent

/'imәnәnt/, adj, (Definition) remaining or operating within the subject considered : indwelling. (Sentence) Stefan told a story about a forest god immanent in the large redwood near our camping spot.

insolence

/'in(t)s(ә)lәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms and near homonym: insolents, insulants and insulins] the quality or state of being haughty and contemptuous or brutal in behavior or language. (Sentence) In Greek mythology Athena transformed Arachne into a spider for her insolence.

insulin

/'in(t)sәlə̇n/, n, (Definition) a protein pancreatic hormone that is essential especially for the metabolism of carbohydrates and which is used in the treatment and control of diabetes mellitus. (Sentence) Marty gives himself an injection of insulin every morning to control his diabetes.

indurate

/'ind(y)әrə̇t/, adj, (Definition) physically or morally hardened. (Sentence) The war contributed greatly to Herbert's seemingly indurate manner, but he was always tender with his pigeons.

inion

/'inē,än/, n, (Definition) the external occipital protuberance of the skull. (Sentence) The coroner determined that the cause of the hitchhiker's death was a blow to the inion.

intricate

/'intrə̇kə̇t/, adj, (Definition) having many complexly interrelating parts or elements : complicated. (Sentence) Jason described the intricate mechanism of the clock as "awesome."

involute

/'invә,lüt/, adj, (Definition) curled spirally. (Sentence) Seashells are generally either involute or orbicular.

instigator

/'inztә,gād.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) one that provokes or incites. (Sentence) The substitute teacher named Verne as the instigator of the disruption.

irritator

/'irә,tād.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) one that aggravates or incites displeasure. (Sentence) Calvin is the class irritator and likes to make the teacher shout at him.

isthmus

/'ismәs/, n, (Definition) a narrow strip of land running through a body of water and connecting two larger land areas. (Sentence) The country of Panama is an isthmus connecting North and South America.

ideogram

/'īdēә,gram/, n, (Definition) a character in Chinese writing made by combining two or more other characters for words of related meaning. (Sentence) In Chinese, the ideogram for to love depicts a woman and her child.

einkorn

/'īn,kŏrn/, n, (Definition) a one-grained wheat that is regarded by some as the most primitive wheat and is grown especially in poor soils in central Europe. (Sentence) Einkorn grown in southeastern Turkey is believed to be closely related to a grain first domesticated as early as 9000 B.C.

jabberwocky

/'jabә(r),wäkē/, n, (Definition) meaningless speech, writing, or patter : gibberish. (Sentence) Dina listened as the two babies carried on a lengthy conversation in jabberwocky.

janiform

/'janә,fŏrm/, adj, (Definition) having a face on each of two sides. (Sentence) While in Rome, Stacey bought a replica of an ancient coin depicting a janiform figure.

jadeite

/'jā,dīt/, n, (Definition) a monoclinic mineral found chiefly in Myanmar that when cut constitutes a valuable variety of jade. (Sentence) Alexis bought a necklace made of jadeite and black onyx at the craft bazaar.

jodhpur

/'jädpә(r)/, n, (Definition) a short riding boot; especially : an ankle-length boot fastened with a strap that is buckled at the side. (Sentence) Among young or short equestrians, the jodhpur is a popular choice of boot.

gemmary

/'jemәrē/, n, (Definition) the science of precious or sometimes semiprecious stones cut and polished for ornament. (Sentence) Perry has written many articles on gemmary for jewelers' trade magazines.

gerund

/'jerәnd/, n, (Definition) the English verbal noun ending in -ing. (Sentence) In the sentence "Swimming is Claudia's favorite activity," the word swimming is a gerund.

gibbous

/'jibәs/, adj, (Definition) seen with more than half but not all of the apparent disk of a moon or a planet illuminated. (Sentence) Vladimir and Sonya took a long romantic walk under the gibbous Moon.

gigot

/'jigәt/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: jigget] a leg (as of lamb or mutton) especially when cooked. (Sentence) Marie praised the chef for cooking the gigot with exactly the right touch of garlic.

girandole

/'jirәn,dōl/, n, (Definition) a mirror having attached candle holders. (Sentence) The girandole over Pete's mantel is a replica of one in a Loire Valley chateau.

Jovian

/'jōvēәn/, adj, (Definition) relating to the planet Jupiter. (Sentence) The Jovian magnetic field is much stronger than Earth's.

julienne

/'jülē,en/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: Julian] cut in long thin strips—used especially of vegetables and fruits. (Sentence) Bruce added julienne cucumber to the salad.

germinal

/'jәrmәnəl/, adj, (Definition) being in the earliest stage of development. (Sentence) Jonathan's social studies class is studying the germinal political ideas underlying our democratic government.

cabriole

/'kabrē,ōl/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with capriole.] a ballet leap in which one leg is extended in mid-air and the other struck against it. (Sentence) The dancers dressed as wood sprites performed a cabriole in every measure of the music.

cataphract

/'kad.ә,frakt/, n, (Definition) a suit of armor for the whole body. (Sentence) The knight in a cataphract was mounted on a charger and equipped with a lance.

catapult

/'kad.ә,pәlt/, v, (Definition) move with a suddenness or force as if propelled by a device that hurls heavy stones. (Sentence) The general's wartime success was enough to catapult him into political power.

cataract

/'kad.ә,rakt/, n, (Definition) a clouding of the lens of the eye obstructing the passage of light. (Sentence) Grandpa's cataract necessitated surgical replacement of the lens in his eye.

cack

/'kak/, n, (Definition) a baby's heelless shoe with a soft leather sole. (Sentence) The shoe clerk recommended a size 3 cack for Amanda's three-month old boy.

calumny

/'kal(y)әmnē/, n, (Definition) a false charge or misrepresentation intended to harm one's reputation : slander. (Sentence) According to Neal, the recent article about him was pure calumny.

calculator

/'kalkyә,lād.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a device used for computing amounts. (Sentence) Mr. Jensen permitted each student to use a calculator during the exam.

calculiform

/'kalkyәlә,fŏrm/, adj, (Definition) shaped like a pebble. (Sentence) In the Mayan writing system, the characters were rounded like pebbles and so were described as being calculiform.

calumet

/'kalyә,met/, n, (Definition) a highly ornamented ceremonial pipe of the North American Indians that was smoked at sacrifices and other magical or religious rites and on state occasions. (Sentence) After the three chiefs reached agreement, they passed a feathered calumet.

calabash

/'kalә,bash/, n, (Definition) the common bottle gourd. (Sentence) A calabash with a hole cut in it makes a dandy birdhouse.

camphor

/'kam(p)fә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: chamfer] a tough gumlike substance obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used chiefly as a stimulant in medicine. (Sentence) Whenever Johnny has a cold, his mother spreads on his chest an aromatic ointment containing camphor.

cameo

/'kamē,ō/, n, (Definition) a small theatrical or film role usually performed by a well-known actor and often limited to a single scene. (Sentence) The producer was grateful that the star accepted a cameo in his new film.

camouflage

/'kamә,fläzh/, n, (Definition) a disguise, behavior, or expedient adopted or designed to deceive or hide. (Sentence) Behind Jerry's camouflage of ignorance resides a wealth of knowledge.

candor

/'kandә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: canter] unreserved, honest, or sincere expression. (Sentence) Russell's candor in dealing with difficult issues won over the voters.

candent

/'kandәnt/, adj, (Definition) white or glowing usually from great heat. (Sentence) The wire glowed candent like the filament of a light bulb.

cantle

/'kantəl/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: candle] the upwardly projecting rear part of a saddle. (Sentence) Only the cantle prevented the rider from falling out of the saddle when the warhorse reared.

canter

/'kantә(r)/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: cantor] move at or as if at a three- beat gait resembling but smoother and slower than the gallop. (Sentence) Cindy let the horse canter for a while but soon spurred it on to a gallop.

cantabank

/'kantә,baŋk/, n, (Definition) a singer from benches or platforms : a ballad singer. (Sentence) The cantabank strolling through the streets of the amusement park was not an employee, though he gave that impression to his onlookers.

capital

/'kapәd.əl/, adj, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word. In addition, word has homonym: capitol.] highly meritorious : most enjoyable. (Sentence) On his dad's birthday, Philip served a capital feast, with every dish cleverly wrapped up in ribbons.

charactonym

/'karə̇ktә,nim/, n, (Definition) a name especially for a fictional character that suggests a distinctive trait of the character. (Sentence) In his novel Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote gave his protagonist the charactonym "Holly Golightly."

caracole

/'karә,kōl/, n, (Definition) a half turn either to the right or the left executed by a mounted horse. (Sentence) The front rank of galloping cavalrymen fired their pistols and then peeled off in a caracole to regroup.

carillon

/'karә,län/, n, (Definition) a set of fixed bells pitched in a chromatic series of at least two octaves and sounded by hammers controlled by a keyboard. (Sentence) Latasha will play the carillon at Andy's wedding.

caritative

/'karә,tād.iv/, adj, (Definition) charitable in nature or tendency. (Sentence) After the fire, the caritative impulses of utter strangers restored Josh's faith in humanity.

caramel

/'karәmәl/, n, (Definition) a firm chewy candy often containing fruits and nuts and typically cut into small blocks. (Sentence) Ida's mother warned her not to eat a caramel before she went to the orthodontist.

cache

/'kash/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: cash] place or store in safety or concealment. (Sentence) Jim asked Zelda to cache his valuables while he was on sabbatical in Japan.

cask

/'kask/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: casque] any barrel-shaped vessel made of staves, headings, and hoops. (Sentence) The salesman boasted that the Scotch had been aged in an old sherry cask for many years.

cowl

/'kaůl/, n, (Definition) a hood especially of a monk. (Sentence) At the monastery Sheila was greeted by a man wearing the long brown robe and cowl of a friar.

counsel

/'kaůn(t)sәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: council] advice, direction. (Sentence) Mr. Knightley shared unpleasant truths with Emma and proved himself her friend by very faithful counsel.

counterpane

/'kaůntә(r),pān/, n, (Definition) bedspread. (Sentence) Aretha received a silk and linen counterpane as a wedding present.

chasm

/'kazәm/, n, (Definition) a deep opening : a narrow, deep steep-walled valley, gorge or canyon. (Sentence) Earthquake tremors opened a great chasm in the valley.

calyx

/'kāliks/, n, (Definition) the outer set of floral leaves making up the external part of the flower. (Sentence) Once the flower's petals fell, the green calyx seemed much more attractive.

Keynesian

/'kānzēәn/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the advocacy of monetary and fiscal programs by government to increase employment. (Sentence) Professor Rabin is a proponent of Keynesian economics.

cochineal

/'kächә,nēl/, n, (Definition) a red dyestuff consisting of the dried bodies of the cochineal insect. (Sentence) Before the introduction of synthetic dyes, cochineal was commonly used in textile production.

codicil

/'kädәsə̇l/, n, (Definition) a legal instrument made subsequently to a will and modifying it in some respects. (Sentence) Robert had his lawyer draw up a codicil to clarify a few ambiguities in his will.

colliery

/'kälyәrē/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: colory] a coal mine and the buildings connected with it. (Sentence) The colliery around which the village was built closed when its reserves of coal were exhausted.

collared

/'kälәrd/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: collard] wearing, having, or depicted with a band, strip, or chain worn or placed around the neck. (Sentence) Several collared men stood holding farm implements in the old daguerreotype.

complement

/'kämplәmәnt/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: compliment] a finishing or consummating part, integral, or component. (Sentence) The earrings made the perfect complement to Anjali's ensemble.

conduit

/'kän(,)düə̇t/, n, (Definition) a natural or artificial channel through which water or other fluid passes or is conveyed. (Sentence) Grandfather showed Logan the conduit that irrigated his large garden.

carmine

/'kär,mīn/, n, (Definition) a vivid red pigment used as a biological stain and as a coloring in foods, drugs, and cosmetics. (Sentence) Yolanda's father snidely remarked that her lipstick contained a little too much carmine.

carnage

/'kärnij/, n, (Definition) great destruction of life (as in battle) : great bloodshed. (Sentence) Appeals to stop the carnage of war fell on deaf ears.

conga

/'käŋgә/, n, (Definition) a Cuban dance of African origin involving three steps followed by a kick and performed by a group in single file. (Sentence) When he was a child, Jimmy loved to dance the conga.

conch

/'käŋk, känch, kŏŋk /, n, (Definition) [has homonym: conk] any of various large spiral- shelled marine gastropod mollusks. (Sentence) Herbert recoiled when he saw conch on the menu of the Caribbean restaurant.

quiche

/'kēsh/, n, (Definition) a baked custard pie usually having an added savory ingredient (as chopped ham, seafood, or vegetables). (Sentence) Lois served soup and a seafood quiche for lunch today.

clavicle

/'klavə̇kәl/, n, (Definition) a bone in man situated just above the first rib on either side of the neck and having the form of a narrow elongated S. (Sentence) Garth wore shoulder pads to football practice to protect his clavicle.

klomp

/'klämp/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: clomp] a wooden shoe worn in the Low countries. (Sentence) The Dutch villager proudly showed Pam a klomp that he had just finished carving.

clematis

/'klemәd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) a plant of a genus of opposite-leaved slightly woody vines or erect herbs having elongate plumose styles. (Sentence) The clematis is cultivated in North America for its attractive flowers.

clemency

/'klemәnsē/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] tendency to be mild and compassionate. (Sentence) Emma supposed she must say more before she would be entitled to Mr. Knightley's clemency.

chlorine

/'klōr,ēn/, n, (Definition) a common nonmetallic element that is used chiefly as a powerful bleaching, oxidizing, and disinfecting agent. (Sentence) Samantha refused to swim on Thursday because someone put too much chlorine in the pool.

cluse

/'klüz/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: clues] a narrow gorge cutting transversely through an otherwise continuous ridge. (Sentence) Although Brian studied the trail map carefully, he found no mention of the cluse that barred his way.

codeine

/'kō(,)dēn/, n, (Definition) a crystalline alkaloid usually made from morphine but feebler in action. (Sentence) The patient was given codeine to kill the pain.

kolo

/'kō(,)lō/, n, (Definition) a central European folk dance in which dancers form a circle and progress slowly to right and left while one or more solo dancers perform elaborate steps in the center. (Sentence) The tourists clapped as Yelena danced the kolo energetically.

cobalt

/'kō,bŏlt/, n, (Definition) a hard magnetic silver-white metallic element. (Sentence) Cobalt is essential as a trace element in animal and plant nutrition.

caudal

/'kŏdəl/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: coddle] constituting, belonging to, or relating to a tail. (Sentence) As a tadpole's legs grow, its caudal appendage gradually disappears.

caucus

/'kŏkәs/, n, (Definition) a conference of party or organization leaders to decide on policies, plans, appointees, or candidates. (Sentence) The caucus stayed in session until 3 a.m. finalizing its slate of nominees.

chorine

/'kŏr,ēn/, n, (Definition) a young woman who sings or dances in the chorus of a theatrical production. (Sentence) Lisa has the part of a chorine in the musical Funny Girl.

coracle

/'kŏrәkәl/, n, (Definition) a small boat made by covering a wicker frame with hide or leather. (Sentence) Ted rowed an old coracle to the small island in the lake.

crevice

/'krevə̇s/, n, (Definition) a narrow opening of some depth caused especially by a split. (Sentence) The hiker's compass fell into a crevice in the rock and will probably never be seen again.

credo

/'krē(,)dō/, n, (Definition) a confession of faith said or sung in Christian liturgies. (Sentence) Bach's B Minor Mass contains a famous credo.

krypton

/'krip,tän/, n, (Definition) a colorless relatively inert gaseous element found in air at about one part per million and used especially in electric lamps. (Sentence) A light bulb filled with krypton will last longer and shine more brightly than a regular bulb of the same wattage.

cryptonym

/'kriptә,nim/, n, (Definition) a secret name. (Sentence) Each person in our club was given a cryptonym known only to the other members.

crystosphene

/'kristә,sfēn/, n, (Definition) a buried sheet of ice under the tundra of North America formed by the freezing of spring water. (Sentence) The geologist measured the thickness of the crystosphene.

chromium

/'krōmēәm/, n, (Definition) a blue-white metallic element found naturally only in combination and used especially in alloys and in electroplating. (Sentence) The car's bumpers were plated with chromium to make them shiny.

Krugerrand

/'krügә,rand/, n, (Definition) a one-ounce gold coin of the Republic of South Africa. (Sentence) Martin purchased a Krugerrand at the New York Coin Show last year.

cuckoo

/'kü(,)kü/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: kuku] a familiar European bird that is noted for its characteristic two-syllabled whistle and for its habit of laying its eggs in the nests of other birds for them to hatch. (Sentence) The cuckoo in the aviary sounded just like Grandmother's clock.

kuru

/'kü(,)rü/, n, (Definition) a rare progressive fatal disease of the brain that is caused by a slow virus and occurs among tribespeople in eastern New Guinea. (Sentence) People who have kuru have symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease.

cooncan

/'kün,kan/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with conquian.] a game of rummy played by two or more with two packs of cards including two jokers. (Sentence) After losing ten games of cooncan in a row, Troy threw up his hands in despair and quit.

kookaburra

/'kůkә,bәrә/, n, (Definition) a kingfisher of Australia that is about the size of a crow, has a call resembling loud laughter, and feeds in part on reptiles. (Sentence) While vacationing in Melbourne, Lindsay was at first startled by the peculiar chortling of a kookaburra.

quadrangle

/'kwä,draŋgәl/, n, (Definition) a square or rectangular enclosure or court especially when surrounded by buildings (as in some schools and colleges). (Sentence) Norm sailed a pie tin across the quadrangle.

quadruped

/'kwädrә,ped/, adj, (Definition) having four feet : using four limbs when walking. (Sentence) Sally's apartment lease restricts the weight of any quadruped pets.

quandary

/'kwänd(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) a state of perplexity or doubt : dilemma. (Sentence) Taylor's advice left Miriam in more of a quandary than she was in when she sought his help.

quiver

/'kwivә(r)/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] a case for carrying arrows. (Sentence) The archer slung his quiver over his shoulder and set out in search of deer.

quinine

/'kwī,nīn/, n, (Definition) a bitter alkaloid derived from cinchona bark and used in medicine especially in the form of bitter salts to reduce fever. (Sentence) Quinine was a common remedy when Dr. Prentice was young.

quorum

/'kwōrәm/, n, (Definition) the number of members of an organization who when assembled can legally transact business in the absence of the other members. (Sentence) There were not enough members present at the school board meeting to constitute a quorum, so no voting took place.

quotient

/'kwōshәnt/, n, (Definition) the number resulting from the division of one number by another. (Sentence) In the equation 48 ÷ by 4 = 12, 12 is the quotient.

quercitron

/'kwәr,sitrәn/, n, (Definition) a black oak or the bark of this tree used in tanning and dyeing. (Sentence) When used as a dye, quercitron turns fabrics yellow.

quirt

/'kwәrt/, n, (Definition) a riding whip with a short handle and a rawhide lash. (Sentence) Eager to get home, Juanita urged her horse on by using the quirt.

culicide

/'kyülә,sīd/, n, (Definition) a substance that destroys mosquitoes. (Sentence) The town's inhabitants were advised to stay indoors for two hours after the culicide was sprayed.

cudgel

/'kәjәl/, n, (Definition) a short heavy stick used as an instrument for punishment or a weapon. (Sentence) A nightstick is one kind of cudgel.

cumbrous

/'kәmbrәs/, adj, (Definition) giving trouble : vexatious. (Sentence) A swarm of cumbrous gnats followed the hikers all day long.

kernelly

/'kәrnəlē/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: carnally] having or containing whole grains or seeds. (Sentence) Jeffrey is quite fond of a certain kind of kernelly bread.

lebkuchen

/'lāp,küKәn/, n, (Definition) a Christmas cookie usually made with honey, brown sugar, almonds, candied fruit peel, and spices. (Sentence) Bart slipped a lebkuchen to the schnauzer.

laser

/'lāzә(r)/, n, (Definition) a device that utilizes the natural oscillations of atoms or molecules between energy levels for generating coherent electromagnetic radiation. (Sentence) The surgeon used a laser to make the incision.

laity

/'lāәd.e/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with lady.] the great body of the people of a religious faith as distinguished from its clergy. (Sentence) In most churches, many tasks and duties are given to the laity.

lavash

/'lä,väsh/, n, (Definition) a large thin crisp unleavened wafer with a rough surface caused by air bubbles during baking. (Sentence) Phil served lavash with goat cheese.

loggia

/'läj(ē)ә/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: logia] a roofed open gallery or arcade in the side of a building especially when facing upon an open court. (Sentence) An airy second-floor loggia ran around three sides of the tiny courtyard.

loxocosm

/'läksә,käzәm/, n, (Definition) a device to show how the inclination of Earth's axis causes the day's length to vary from season to season. (Sentence) John constructed a loxocosm for the science fair.

lamasery

/'lämә,serē/, n, (Definition) a monastery of Tibetan Buddhist monks or priests. (Sentence) Xiang returned from the lamasery a wiser and more introspective man.

llama

/'lämә/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: lama] any of a genus of wild or domesticated cud-chewing mammals of South America related to the camels but smaller and without a hump. (Sentence) The llama thrives in the Alpine grasslands of Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

lozenge

/'läzənj/, n, (Definition) a small diamond-shaped medicated candy. (Sentence) Mother gave Rick a cherry-flavored lozenge for his sore throat.

lectern

/'lektә(r)n/, n, (Definition) a desk or stand with a sloping top and usually a ledge at the bottom of the slope designed to support a book or script in a convenient position for a reader standing before it. (Sentence) Miguel clutched the lectern in an attempt to conceal his nervousness.

lecithin

/'lesәthə̇n/, n, (Definition) a substance that is obtained in the manufacture of soybean oil and that is used in foods (as margarine, chocolate, bakery products). (Sentence) Lecithin is used in the production of caramel to make it smoother.

levee

/'levē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: levy] an embankment built alongside a body of water to prevent flooding of nearby land. (Sentence) The city plans to construct a levee to prevent flooding from the river.

leniency

/'lēnēәnsē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being tolerant or merciful. (Sentence) At his sentencing the convicted felon expressed remorse and pleaded for leniency.

leotard

/'lēә,tärd/, n, (Definition) a close-fitting garment for the torso that is worn for practice or performance by dancers and acrobats. (Sentence) In modern dance, performers often wear a very simple leotard.

liberalism

/'lib(ә)rә,lizәm/, n, (Definition) a political philosophy based on the belief in freedom for the individual and on the belief of governmental guarantees of human rights and civil liberties. (Sentence) Alex believes that persons attracted to liberalism are often more compassionate than practical.

littoral

/'lid.әrәl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: literal] of, relating to, or being near a shore, especially of the sea. (Sentence) Eduardo finally realized his dream when he established a littoral nature preserve.

ligament

/'ligәmәnt/, n, (Definition) something that ties or unites one thing or part to another. (Sentence) International law is considered by some to be the ligament of mankind.

ligand

/'ligәnd/, n, (Definition) a group, ion, or molecule coordinated to the central atom in a coordination complex. (Sentence) Sphyros explained that a ligand is just a molecule or ion surrounding a transition metal in a complex molecule or ion.

limb

/'lim/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word. In addition, word has homonym: limn.] the outer edge of the apparent disk of a celestial body or a portion of the edge. (Sentence) Teresa spied a crater directly on the Moon's limb.

limpid

/'limpə̇d/, adj, (Definition) completely free from cloudiness or other obstacles to the passage of light. (Sentence) Mary got an eerie feeling when she looked into the limpid blue eyes of the Siberian Husky.

limousine

/'limә,zēn/, n, (Definition) a small bus (as for transporting passengers to and from an airport). (Sentence) Mrs. Waldrupe was disappointed that her airport limousine was a ramshackle van.

lynx

/'liŋ(k)s/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: links] any of several wildcats with relatively long legs, a short stubby tail, mottled coat, and often tufted ears. (Sentence) The lynx lives in cold northern latitudes, where its favorite prey is the snowshoe hare.

lionized

/'līә,nīzd/, v, (Definition) treated or regarded as a celebrity or object of interest. (Sentence) The Olympic gold medalist was lionized by her proud hometown.

laud

/'lŏd/, v, (Definition) sing the praises of. (Sentence) The proud parents would laud their child's slightest accomplishment.

logogriph

/'lŏgә,grif/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: logograph] a word puzzle. (Sentence) Katrina spent the afternoon constructing a logogriph for her little brother.

laurel

/'lŏrәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: loral] foliage used by the ancient Greeks to crown victors in the Pythian games. (Sentence) The ancient statue of an unknown athlete bore a carefully carved wreath of laurel.

lupine

/'lü,pīn/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or resembling a wolf. (Sentence) The stray dog had a lupine look to it.

lieu

/'lü/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: loo] place, stead. (Sentence) Miss Woodhouse had many acquaintances, but not one among them could be accepted in lieu of her best friend Miss Taylor for even half a day.

lute

/'lüt/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: loot] a stringed musical instrument of Oriental origin that has a large pear-shaped body. (Sentence) The court minstrel strummed his lute thoughtfully, deciding which song to play next.

matelote

/'mad.əl,ōt/, n, (Definition) a sauce made of wine, onions, seasonings, and fish stock. (Sentence) Even though it is served with fish, a matelote often contains red wine.

madrigal

/'madrə̇gәl/, n, (Definition) a polyphonic part-song originating in the 14th century. (Sentence) At the coronation feast the haunting madrigal brought tears to the eyes of the new king.

madeleine

/'madələ̇n/, n, (Definition) a small rich cake baked in a tin shaped like a shell. (Sentence) Knut skipped the main course and went right to the madeleine.

macrame

/'makrә,mā/, n, (Definition) a coarse lace or decorative fringe made by knotting threads or cords in a geometrical pattern. (Sentence) Penny prefers to use soft yarn in her macrame.

machinate

/'makә,nāt/, v, (Definition) scheme or contrive to bring (something undesirable) about : plot. (Sentence) Robert feared that one of his coworkers would machinate to have the entire accounting department replaced.

mallard

/'malә(r)d/, n, (Definition) a common wild duck of the northern hemisphere. (Sentence) When Timmy fed the ducks at the marina, he gave his last piece of bread to the mallard.

mandible

/'mandәbәl/, n, (Definition) any of various invertebrate mouthparts serving to hold or bite into food materials. (Sentence) Most insects use the mandible for crushing their food.

manna

/'manә/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: mana] something of value that falls one's way : windfall. (Sentence) Children swarmed the parade route collecting the manna of treats tossed from the float.

marinade

/'marә,nād/, n, (Definition) a brine or pickle usually containing vinegar or wine, oil, spices, and herbs in which a food (as meat or fish) is soaked to enrich its flavor. (Sentence) Elise added chili oil to the marinade.

mastiff

/'mastə̇f/, n, (Definition) a very large powerful deep-chested smooth-coated dog of a very old breed used chiefly as a watchdog and guard dog. (Sentence) A big brown mastiff stood motionless behind the gate.

mangonel

/'maŋgә,nel/, n, (Definition) a military engine formerly used for throwing missiles. (Sentence) With a sharp twang the mangonel hurled a boulder at the castle gate.

manganese

/'maŋgә,nēz/, n, (Definition) a grayish white metallic element that is ordinarily hard and brittle, resembles iron but is not magnetic, and is used chiefly in making steel. (Sentence) Manganese nodules, which cover vast stretches of ocean floor, are composed mostly of manganese but also contain iron, nickel, copper, and cobalt.

modulo

/'mäjә,lō/, prep, (Definition) with respect to a number that divides the difference of two other numbers without leaving a remainder. (Sentence) Betsy's date calculation program uses modulo seven arithmetic.

marjoram

/'mär,jәrәm/, n, (Definition) any of various usually fragrant and aromatic mints that include several forms used as seasoning in cookery. (Sentence) Vance likes to add marjoram and cream cheese to his scrambled eggs.

marmalade

/'märme,lād/, n, (Definition) a soft clear translucent jelly holding in suspension pieces or slices of fruit and fruit rind. (Sentence) Mom's homemade marmalade on toast is always a great treat for breakfast.

marshmallow

/'märsh,melō/, n, (Definition) a confection made from corn syrup, sugar, albumen, and gelatin, beaten to a light creamy consistency, and usually rolled in powdered sugar when partly dry. (Sentence) Burt toasted a marshmallow and put it between layers of graham crackers and chocolate squares.

martial

/'märshәl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonyms: marshal, marshall] belonging or relating to an army or to military life. (Sentence) Patrick Henry believed that the only purpose of England's martial array in the colonies and their seaports could be to force the colonists into submission.

Martian

/'märshәn/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the planet Mars or its hypothetical inhabitants. (Sentence) The Martian year is approximately 687 Earth days.

metallurgist

/'med.əl,әrjə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the study of the structure and properties of metals. (Sentence) Theobald hired a metallurgist to evaluate the ore deposits on his ranch.

melba

/'melbә/, n, (Definition) fruit served with ice cream, raspberry sauce, and whipped cream. (Sentence) The peach melba was served in a crystal goblet.

melodrama

/'melә,drämә/, n, (Definition) a play characterized by extravagant theatricality, subordination of characterization to plot, and predominance of physical action. (Sentence) George was put off by the opera's melodrama but was enthralled by the beauty of the music.

memoir

/'mem,wär/, n, (Definition) a history or narrative composed from or stressing personal experience and acquaintance with the events, scenes, or persons described. (Sentence) The memoir of Burton Smith was published last year.

mesoscale

/'mezō,skāl/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to a meteorological phenomenon approximately 1 to 100 kilometers in horizontal extent. (Sentence) Unlike a blizzard, which can blanket a dozen states for days, mesoscale weather covers only a small area and passes through quickly.

measles

/'mēzәlz/, n pl, (Definition) a contagious disease characterized by red spots. (Sentence) Most doctors recommend that children be vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella.

midway

/'mid,wā/, adv, (Definition) in the middle of the distance. (Sentence) The alderman's proposal was midway between revolution and reform.

miniascape

/'minēә,skāp/, n, (Definition) a dish garden made with dry or other plant materials that do not require water. (Sentence) A miniascape makes an interesting host or hostess gift.

minuend

/'minyә,wend/, n, (Definition) a quantity in mathematics from which another quantity is to be subtracted. (Sentence) In the equation 7 - 5 = 2, 7 is the minuend.

mistigris

/'mistē,gris/, n, (Definition) a joker or blank card that the holder can play as any card. (Sentence) Darryl won the hand using a mistigris and three queens for four of a kind.

mistiness

/'mistēnə̇s/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being obscured by or covered with water in the form of particles suspended in the atmosphere. (Sentence) A heavy mistiness hung in the valley and obscured the mountains.

mistral

/'mistrәl/, n, (Definition) a violent cold dry northerly wind of the Mediterranean provinces of France. (Sentence) In Provence, the mistral sometimes dries out the vines and grapes.

miscible

/'misәbәl/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Pronouncer should provide definition of this word.] capable of being mixed in any ratio without separation of two phases—used especially of fluids. (Sentence) Oil and kerosene are miscible, but carbon tetrachloride and water are not.

missile

/'misәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: missal] a weapon or other object thrown or projected. (Sentence) Ichabod endeavored to dodge the horrible missile, but too late.

maestro

/'mī(,)strō/, n, (Definition) a master or teacher of an art (as music). (Sentence) The award-winning singer gave tribute to her maestro at the conservatory.

migraine

/'mī,grān/, n, (Definition) a condition marked by recurrent severe headache often with nausea and vomiting. (Sentence) Karen's doctor found out that her migraine was due to a food allergy.

mai

/'mī/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: my] a slow Japanese folk or theater dance featuring hand gestures. (Sentence) Midori is an expert in all forms of Japanese dance, but her favorite is the mai.

microfiche

/'mīkrō,fēsh/, n, (Definition) a sheet of film containing several rows of photographic records on a reduced scale that are enlarged for reading or viewing. (Sentence) Norma examined a microfiche of old newspaper pages while doing research at the library.

microsecond

/'mīkrō,sekәnd/, n, (Definition) a unit of time equal to 1 millionth of a second. (Sentence) Some writers need five paragraphs to explain an emotion that lasts only for a microsecond.

micrograph

/'mīkrә,graf/, n, (Definition) a graphic reproduction of the image of an object formed by a microscope. (Sentence) The biology teacher showed the class a micrograph of a plant cell.

minor

/'mīnә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: miner] a person under full age or majority : one who has not attained the age at which full civil rights are accorded. (Sentence) Because Randy is a minor, the airline will not allow him to take the red-eye flight unaccompanied.

mohair

/'mō,ha(a)(ә)r/, n, (Definition) any of various fabrics or yarns made wholly or in part of the hair of the Angora goat. (Sentence) For her birthday Linda got a matching scarf and sweater, both made of mohair.

mocha

/'mōkә/, n, (Definition) a flavoring made of a strong coffee infusion or of a mixture of cocoa or chocolate with coffee. (Sentence) Samantha detected a hint of mocha in her hot chocolate.

mordancy

/'mŏ(r)dənsē/, n, (Definition) a biting and caustic quality of style. (Sentence) The mordancy of the candidate's comments made her opponent wince.

moiety

/'mŏiәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a share paid by the government to an informer out of duties and penalties collected because of the individual's help. (Sentence) The whistleblower received a moiety of the large fine imposed upon his employer for supplying faulty engine parts to the military.

mauve

/'mŏv/, n, (Definition) a strong purple with a bluish cast. (Sentence) Karen has tired of her bedroom of mauve and blue.

muumuu

/'mü,mü/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: mumu] a loose dress with gay colors and patterns, worn chiefly in Hawaii. (Sentence) Pandora bought a red flowered muumuu during her trip to Maui.

mousse

/'müs/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: moose] a frothy dessert; especially : a dessert of sweetened and flavored whipped cream, or thin cream and gelatin, frozen without stirring. (Sentence) Michael ordered chocolate hazelnut mousse for dessert, but Vera ordered just coffee.

mutiny

/'myüt(ə)nē/, n, (Definition) insurrection against or willful refusal to obey constituted, recognized, or traditional authority. (Sentence) Captain Bligh, unable to suppress the mutiny, was set adrift in a rowboat.

multitude

/'mәltә,tüd/, n, (Definition) a great number : host. (Sentence) A multitude of reporters besieged the plaintiff as she left the courtroom.

mulligan

/'mәlə̇gәn/, n, (Definition) a free shot sometimes awarded a golfer in nontournament play when the preceding shot has been poorly played. (Sentence) Gordy took a mulligan after hitting a "worm burner" on the first tee.

mummify

/'mәmә,fī/, v, (Definition) make into or like a mummy. (Sentence) Ancient Egyptian embalmers used resin and linen strips to mummify their subjects.

mummery

/'mәmәrē/, n, (Definition) a performance given by actors in a pantomime. (Sentence) Costumed actors performed a comic mummery in the school auditorium.

mustard

/'mәstә(r)d/, adj, (Definition) a pungent yellow condiment which is sometimes mixed with water and vinegar and applied to the skin as a poultice for skin irritation. (Sentence) Angelique had been up during the night making mustard plasters to relieve his colic.

naphthene

/'naf,thēn/, n, (Definition) any of a series of saturated cyclic hydrocarbons that occur in various kinds of petroleum, in shale, and in tar oil. (Sentence) Naphthene is an important part of all liquid refinery products.

knapsack

/'nap,sak/, n, (Definition) a bag or case often of canvas supported on the back by a strap over each shoulder and used especially for carrying supplies while on a march or hike. (Sentence) The next morning, Boris found a young snapping turtle in his knapsack.

nainsook

/'nān,sůk/, n, (Definition) a soft lightweight cotton fabric in plain weave and various finishes that is used especially for clothing and curtains. (Sentence) Janet's new summer blouse is made of nainsook.

noxious

/'näkshәs/, adj, (Definition) harmful or destructive to man or to other organisms. (Sentence) Emma is studying the noxious effects of gasoline fumes.

narthex

/'när,theks/, n, (Definition) a vestibule leading to the nave of a church. (Sentence) The bridal party lined up in the narthex and waited for the cue to proceed down the church's center aisle.

nostrum

/'nästrәm/, n, (Definition) a remedy or medicine of secret composition recommended by its preparer but usually lacking general repute or acceptance. (Sentence) Mr. Sherwood insists that his nostrum will cure warts within a week.

nectarine

/'nektә,rēn/, n, (Definition) a peach that has a smooth-skinned fruit. (Sentence) Jason prefers a nectarine to a common peach.

neoned

/'nē,änd/, adj, (Definition) of, equipped with, or lighted by neon lamps. (Sentence) The museum installation was neoned, which produced an eery bluish-white glow.

niche

/'nich/, n, (Definition) a place suitable for the capabilities or merits of a person. (Sentence) Wendy felt she had found her niche at school in the student government association.

niggardly

/'nigә(r)dlē/, adj, (Definition) characterized by a reluctance to part with money : tightfisted. (Sentence) The wealthy banker was best known for his niggardly spending habits.

nix

/'niks/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word. Word has homonyms: knicks, nicks.] a creature originating in German folklore usually having the form of half human and half fish and usually unfriendly to humans. (Sentence) The nix is the Germanic version of the water monster we commonly call a "mermaid."

knickers

/'nikә(r)z/, n pl, (Definition) [has homonym: nickers] loose-fitting knee-length pants gathered at the knee on a band for sports and informal wear. (Sentence) The man was dressed in a shaggy tweed jacket and knickers with long woolen stockings.

nicotinism

/'nikә,tē,nizәm/, n, (Definition) the effect of the excessive use of tobacco. (Sentence) Patients who suffer from nicotinism exhibit lung and heart problems.

nidor

/'nī,dŏ(ә)r/, n, (Definition) [Note: Alternate pronunciation has homonym: niter/nitre.] a strong smell : reek. (Sentence) The nidor of the hot grease warned Della that she should lower the temperature.

nitrogen

/'nītrə̇jə̇n/, n, (Definition) a colorless tasteless odorless element that as a diatomic gas is relatively inert and constitutes 78 percent of the atmosphere by volume and occurs as a constituent of all living tissues. (Sentence) Lightning causes the oxidation of nitrogen to nitric oxide, which is rained out as nitrate.

nociceptor

/'nōsē,septә(r)/, n, (Definition) a part of the body that transmits to the central nervous system injurious or painful stimuli. (Sentence) The spicy salsa activated each nociceptor on Michelle's tongue, bringing her to tears.

noosphere

/'nōә,sfi(ә)r/, n, (Definition) the realm of human consciousness and mental activity especially in regard to its influence on the biosphere and in relation to evolution. (Sentence) Professor Morrison gave his theoretical biology class a timeline of the history of the noosphere.

ohm

/'ōm/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: aum, om] the practical meter- kilogram-second unit of electric resistance that is equal to the resistance of a circuit in which a potential difference of 1 volt produces a current of 1 ampere. (Sentence) Michael was confused by the Greek symbol for omega in his textbook until he realized that it was the abbreviation for an ohm.

ocelot

/'ōsә,lät/, n, (Definition) a medium-sized American wildcat ranging from Texas to Patagonia and having a tawny yellow or grayish coat that is dotted and striped with black. (Sentence) The ocelot appears in Aztec stone carvings.

ornithoid

/'ŏ(r)nә,Jŏid/, adj, (Definition) birdlike. (Sentence) The ornithoid statue in Walcott Park is always covered with pigeons.

orthoepy

/'ŏ(r)thә,wepē/, n, (Definition) the study of the pronunciation of a language. (Sentence) Differences between the English spoken in the United States and that spoken in England is a topic of orthoepy familiar to many linguists.

orotund

/'ŏrә,tәnd/, adj, (Definition) unduly full and strong in delivery or style : pompous, bombastic. (Sentence) The more nervous Jeff gets while giving a speech, the more orotund his delivery becomes.

patois

/'pa,twä/, n, (Definition) a dialect other than the standard or literary dialect. (Sentence) Parisians considered the French spoken in the English court to be a patois.

palberry

/'pal,b(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) the edible berry of an Australian tree. (Sentence) The palberry is sometimes referred to as "native currant."

pallid

/'palə̇d/, adj, (Definition) lacking in brightness or intensity : pale—used of a color or a colored object. (Sentence) Today's pallid sky contrasts sharply with yesterday's brilliant blue one.

palimpsest

/'palə̇m(p),sest/, n, (Definition) a parchment, tablet, or other portion of writing material that has been used twice or three times after the earlier writing has been erased. (Sentence) Special equipment will help determine whether the old parchment Colin found is a palimpsest.

pantomime

/'pantә,mīm/, n, (Definition) a dramatic performance using no dialogue. (Sentence) The sixth-grade class put on a pantomime of the story "Androcles and the Lion."

panickiness

/'panə̇kēnə̇s/, n, (Definition) the quality or state characterized by or resulting from sudden overpowering fright. (Sentence) In her panickiness in calling for an ambulance, Gretchen forgot to give the street address.

panoply

/'panәplē/, n, (Definition) a magnificent or impressive array. (Sentence) The panoply of wildflowers in the meadow took away Carla's breath.

parry

/'parē/, v, (Definition) [has near homonyms: peri, perry] ward off a weapon or blow by means of a defensive action. (Sentence) Lola's fencing opponent forced her to parry repeatedly, and she lost ground quickly.

parried

/'parēd/, v, (Definition) warded off a weapon or blow by means of a defensive action. (Sentence) Neither fencer scored as they parried for several minutes.

paradox

/'parә,däks/, n, (Definition) a statement or sentiment that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense and yet perhaps true in fact. (Sentence) The homework assignment was to write an essay on the following paradox: "To guarantee freedom of religion, the government must be free from religion."

paraclete

/'parә,klēt/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with parrakeet.] one called to aid or support : an advocate. (Sentence) The popular senator was hailed as a paraclete of civil rights.

parapetless

/'parә,pə̇tlə̇s/, adj, (Definition) not having a wall, rampart or elevation designed to protect soldiers. (Sentence) The castle was parapetless, the two towers having been destroyed by cannon fire a century earlier.

parity

/'parәd.ē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: parody] the quality or state of being equal : close equivalence or resemblance. (Sentence) American automobile manufacturers believe they have achieved parity with their foreign competitors.

paroxysm

/'parәk,sizәm/, n, (Definition) a sudden, violent, and uncontrollable action or occurrence of emotion. (Sentence) When Jeff unknowingly sat on the whoopie cushion, Al burst into a paroxysm of laughter.

patricide

/'patrә,sīd/, n, (Definition) one that murders his or her own father. (Sentence) The patricide expressed no remorse before being sentenced to life imprisonment.

patriarch

/'pātrē,ärk/, n, (Definition) a man regarded as father or founder (as of a race, science, religion, or class of people). (Sentence) In many religious circles Adam is considered to be the patriarch of the human race.

potash

/'päd.,ash/, n, (Definition) potassium carbonate. (Sentence) In colonial days potash was used to make soap.

polydentate

/'pälē,den,tāt/, adj, (Definition) attached to the central atom in a coordination complex by two or more bonds. (Sentence) Shara used a tripolyphosphate atom as an example in her efforts to explain the difference between polydentate ligands and other ligands.

parley

/'pärlē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: parlay] conversation, discussion. (Sentence) Mr. Elton and Harriet had a very interesting parley about what could be done and should be done.

pedant

/'pedənt/, n, (Definition) one who is uninspired, unimaginative, or narrowly academic or who unduly emphasizes minutiae in the presentation or use of knowledge. (Sentence) Harold got no respect from his colleagues on campus, all of whom viewed him as a mere pedant.

pedestal

/'pedə̇stəl/, n, (Definition) the base of an upright structure (as a statue, vase, or lamp). (Sentence) Because tourists did so much damage to the statue in the town square, it was moved to a much higher pedestal.

pendulum

/'penjәlәm/, n, (Definition) a body suspended from a fixed point so as to swing freely to and fro under the action of gravity and commonly used to regulate the movements of clockwork and other machinery. (Sentence) Trina stops the grandfather clock's pendulum each evening so that the chimes will not ring during the night.

pennant

/'penәnt/, n, (Definition) a flag or banner. (Sentence) Whenever the queen was in residence, her pennant was raised on the palace flagpole.

periapt

/'perē,apt/, n, (Definition) a charm worn especially as a protection against disease or mischief : amulet. (Sentence) Tonya's research revealed that it was not uncommon for soldiers to wear a periapt into battle for protection.

pestilence

/'pestәlәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) a contagious or infectious epidemic disease that is virulent and devastating. (Sentence) Pestilence has historically been one of society's main causes of death.

pinnate

/'pi,nāt/, adj, (Definition) resembling a feather especially in having similar parts arranged on opposite sides of an axis like the barbs on the spine of a feather. (Sentence) The chick-pea plant bears pinnate leaves.

pickelhaube

/'pikәl,haůbә/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with pickelhauben.] a spiked helmet formerly worn by German soldiers. (Sentence) In the chapter on World War I, the history book included a photo of a German general wearing a silver- plated pickelhaube.

pillion

/'pilyәn/, n, (Definition) a motorcycle or bicycle riding saddle for a passenger. (Sentence) Denny improvised a pillion in order to give LaToya a ride home.

pivot

/'pivәt/, n, (Definition) a person or thing on or around which something turns or depends : central point. (Sentence) The pivot of controversy is Roberta's questionable handling of public funds.

pica

/'pīkә/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: pika] a size of type equivalent to 12 point. (Sentence) Part of Katie's proofreading job was to add another line of pica to pages that had enough space.

pyrostat

/'pīrә,stat/, n, (Definition) any of various automatic devices that when exposed to any manifestation of fire actuate a mechanism for giving a warning or for setting in operation a means of extinguishing the fire. (Sentence) Most commercial fire alarms nowadays are not manual but are activated by a pyrostat.

platypus

/'plad.әpәs/, n, (Definition) a small egg-laying aquatic mammal of southern and eastern Australia and Tasmania having a fleshy bill resembling that of a duck, dense blackish brown fur, five-toed webbed feet, and a broad flattened tail. (Sentence) Cindy has asked for a pet platypus for her birthday.

plantigrade

/'plantә,grād/, adj, (Definition) walking on the sole with the heel touching the ground. (Sentence) Most primates are not plantigrade.

planar

/'plānә(r)/, adj, (Definition) [has homonyms: plainer, planer] lying in one surface defined by three points. (Sentence) Section 13.4 of Kew's textbook explained that a molecule with three atoms can be either linear or planar.

plumose

/'plü,mōs/, adj, (Definition) having feathers or plumes : feathered. (Sentence) Emily's plumose mask was a hit at the Mardi Gras party.

pleurisy

/'plůrәsē/, n, (Definition) inflammation of the membrane lining the chest cavity and enveloping the lungs. (Sentence) Pleurisy, causing fluid to accumulate in Zachary's chest cavity, further complicated his pneumonia.

plumb

/'plәm/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: plum] examine minutely and critically. (Sentence) Heraclitus attempted to plumb the depths of his soul, but never found its limit.

plover

/'plәvә(r)/, n, (Definition) any of numerous shore-inhabiting birds having a short hard-tipped bill and a stout compact build. (Sentence) Taylor could see that the plover circling over the tennis court had spotted upper plumage.

ponor

/'pō,nŏ(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a steep-sided sinkhole. (Sentence) Ms. Ventura cautioned the Scouts to avoid the ponor at the edge of the old quarry.

poultice

/'pōltə̇s/, n, (Definition) a soft mass usually heated and spread on cloth for application to inflamed areas to supply moist warmth, relieve pain, or act as a counterirritant. (Sentence) Aunt Julia's remedy for rashes or skin problems of any sort is a mustard poultice.

portico

/'pōrd.ə̇kō/, n, (Definition) a colonnade or covered walkway. (Sentence) The pair entered the shaded portico for a private conversation.

porcelain

/'pōrs(ә)lə̇n/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: purslane] a hard, fine-grained, white ceramic ware that has a hard paste body, is fired at a high temperature, and is used especially for table and ornamental wares. (Sentence) Many old houses have doorknobs made of porcelain.

pauperize

/'pŏpә'rīz/, v, (Definition) reduce to abject poverty. (Sentence) Afraid that another market dip would pauperize him, Soren sold his shares in dot-com companies.

porpoise

/'pŏrpәs/, n, (Definition) a small, friendly whale with teeth and a short, rounded snout and that somewhat resembles a dolphin. (Sentence) Miles saw a porpoise at the aquarium.

praline

/'prä,lēn/, n, (Definition) a round patty of creamy brown sugar containing pecan meats. (Sentence) The praline is a favorite candy of the southern United States.

predecessor

/'predә,sesә(r)/, n, (Definition) one who comes before in order of time; especially : a person who has previously occupied a position or office to which another has succeeded. (Sentence) The employees are hoping that the new CEO is more labor-friendly than his predecessor.

prairie

/'prerē/, n, (Definition) a meadow or tract of grassland. (Sentence) The prairie stretched out broad and flat to the horizon in every direction.

precept

/'prē,sept/, n, (Definition) a command or principle intended as a general rule of action. (Sentence) Mark owes his success to the precept that it never hurts to ask a question.

precinct

/'prē,siŋ(k)t/, n, (Definition) a part of a territory (as a city) having definite bounds or functions and often established for administrative purposes. (Sentence) In this precinct voters cast their ballots at the middle school.

prescient

/'prēsh(ē)әnt/, adj, (Definition) having foreknowledge : characterized by foresight. (Sentence) Carrie seemed unusually prescient as she sat smugly under her umbrella on what was once a clear afternoon.

principal

/'prin(t)sәpәl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: principle] most important, consequential, or influential. (Sentence) The map showed principal roads, towns and cities, and locations of historic sites.

proem

/'prō,em/, n, (Definition) a preliminary discourse to a longer piece of writing. (Sentence) The excited scholar was sure he had found a previously unknown proem to Plato's Republic.

protean

/'prōd.ēәn/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: protein] readily assuming different shapes or forms. (Sentence) An amoeba is a protean organism.

protocol

/'prōd.ә,kŏl/, n, (Definition) a rigid long-established code prescribing complete deference to superior rank and strict adherence to due order of precedence and precisely correct procedure. (Sentence) Lieutenant Griffin was censured for violating protocol after he got up in the middle of the meal without excusing himself.

protonate

/'prōtən,āt/, v, (Definition) add a positively charged elementary particle to. (Sentence) Styro remembers the diagram of how to protonate acetic acid molecules by thinking of a horizontal Y.

putsch

/'půch/, n, (Definition) a secretly plotted and suddenly executed attempt to overthrow a government or governing body. (Sentence) The right-wing nationalist group plotted a putsch for early September.

putty

/'pәd.ē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: puttee] a cement usually made of whiting and boiled linseed oil beaten or kneaded to the consistency of dough and used in fastening glass in sashes and stopping crevices in woodwork. (Sentence) The window repairman smoothed the new putty and inserted the double-paned glass into the sash.

perquisite

/'pәrkwәzə̇t/, n, (Definition) a privilege, gain, or profit incidental to an employment in addition to regular salary or wages. (Sentence) A perquisite attractive to many business executives is unlimited use of a cellular telephone.

pursuivant

/'pәrs(w)ə̇vәnt/, n, (Definition) the lowest rank of one learning the profession of heraldry. (Sentence) After studying for a year, James earned the right to be called a pursuivant.

personage

/'pәrs(ə)nij/, n, (Definition) an eminent man or woman; especially : one distinguished for presence and personal power. (Sentence) Winston Churchill, a personage most widely known for his leadership during and after World War II, was also an accomplished artist.

ramshackle

/'ram,shakәl/, adj, (Definition) appearing as if ready to collapse : dilapidated, rickety. (Sentence) Bonnie heard strange noises coming from the ramshackle house next door.

reggae

/'rā(,)gā/, n, (Definition) a popular music of Jamaican origin that combines indigenous styles with elements of rock 'n' roll and soul music and is performed with the accent on the offbeat. (Sentence) The video travelogue about Jamaica included a soundtrack of reggae.

radarscope

/'rādär,skōp/, n, (Definition) the oscilloscope or screen serving as the visual indicator in a radar receiver. (Sentence) The pilot relied on the radarscope to fly through the storm safely.

radiosonde

/'rādēō,sänd/, n, (Definition) a miniature radio transmitter that is carried aloft (as by an unmanned balloon) with instruments for broadcasting the humidity, temperature, and pressure. (Sentence) The National Weather Service uses thin neoprene balloons to raise the radiosonde to great heights.

rondeau

/'rän(,)dō/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: rondo] a fixed form of verse usually of 15 lines. (Sentence) Shona sat up half the night polishing the rondeau she would read the next day aloud to the class.

rendezvous

/'rändә,vü/, n, (Definition) a meeting at an appointed place and time. (Sentence) The astronauts completed a rendezvous with the orbiting space station.

rostrum

/'rästrәm/, n, (Definition) a pulpit or platform occupied by an orator or public speaker. (Sentence) Robin stepped up on the rostrum, took a drink of water, and then began her speech.

rathskeller

/'rät,skelә(r)/, n, (Definition) a restaurant located usually below the street level and patterned after the cellar or basement of a German city hall. (Sentence) There are three good restaurants on this block, but college students seem to prefer the rathskeller.

rhonchus

/'räŋkәs/, n, (Definition) a whistling or snoring sound heard on auscultation of the chest when the air channels are partly obstructed. (Sentence) When the doctor detected a rhonchus with his stethoscope, he suspected pneumonia.

recusancy

/'rekyәzәnsē/, n, (Definition) refusal to accept or obey constituted authority : nonconformity. (Sentence) In post-Reformation England, recusancy was the refusal especially of Roman Catholics to attend the services of the Church of England.

relegate

/'relә,gāt/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: religate] degrade, demote. (Sentence) The coach decided to relegate the quarterback to second string after his poor performance in the game.

repertoire

/'repә(r),twär/, n, (Definition) a list or supply of pieces or parts that a company or person has thoroughly rehearsed and is prepared to perform. (Sentence) The folk dance troupe has added several Balkan dances to its repertoire.

recipe

/'resә(,)pē/, n, (Definition) a formula for cooking or preparing something to be eaten or drunk. (Sentence) Chuck's chili recipe is a closely guarded secret.

retrospect

/'retrә,spekt/, v, (Definition) practice the act of surveying the past. (Sentence) Colin's ability to restrospect makes history classes a breeze for him.

reservoir

/'rezәv,wär/, n, (Definition) a place where water is collected and kept in quantity for use when wanted. (Sentence) Because of the dry spell, our reservoir was only half full, and water restrictions had to be imposed.

redox

/'rē,däks/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: redux] of or relating to oxidation-reduction. (Sentence) Juju's comment that every basic chemistry student knows that metathesis is not a redox reaction was not welcome at the study group.

wreath

/'rēJ/, n, (Definition) a coronet, band, or fillet of intertwined flowers or leaves worn or bestowed as a mark of honor or victory or symbol of esteem. (Sentence) The figure on the vase wearing a laurel wreath is identified as Apollo.

rebus

/'rēbәs/, n, (Definition) a representation of words or syllables by pictures of objects or by symbols whose names resemble the intended words or syllables in sound. (Sentence) A popular game show required contestants to solve a rebus to win.

reek

/'rēk/, v, (Definition) give off a strong, often offensive odor. (Sentence) Antiperspirant ads create the impression that the human body will reek with sweat if the advertised product is not used.

rheostat

/'rēә,stat/, n, (Definition) a resistor for regulating a current by means of variable resistances. (Sentence) The light dimmer has refused to work ever since Henry adjusted the rheostat.

rictus

/'riktәs/, n, (Definition) a gaping grin or grimace. (Sentence) Reuben's face was frozen in a rictus of horror during the movie's last scene.

ricochet

/'rikә,shā/, n, (Definition) a glancing rebound or skipping (as of a flat stone thrown along the surface of water). (Sentence) Albert and Tyler carefully counted each ricochet in the stone-skipping contest.

rime

/'rīm/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: rhyme] a covering of minute ice crystals on a cold surface that is formed by the condensation of atmospheric vapor at temperatures below freezing : frost. (Sentence) Rime may occur in large, feathery flakes, but they lack the crystalline patterns of snowflakes.

rhodolite

/'rōdəl,īt/, n, (Definition) a pink or purple garnet that is used as a gem. (Sentence) The gem exhibit included a 75-carat rhodolite from Tanzania.

roleo

/'rōlē,ō/, n, (Definition) a logrolling tournament. (Sentence) A roleo is similar to a rodeo but has floating logs instead of bucking broncos.

rouge

/'rüzh/, n, (Definition) any of various cosmetics that give a red coloring to the cheeks or lips. (Sentence) Loretta's mother said she was too young to wear rouge.

ruddy

/'rәdē/, adj, (Definition) having or marked by a reddish color associated with the glow of good health or a suffusion of blood (as from exercise, excitement, exposure). (Sentence) Working in the sugarcane fields has given Caleb a ruddy complexion.

steinkern

/'s(h)tīn,kern/, n, (Definition) a fossil consisting of a stony mass that entered a hollow natural object (as a bivalve shell) in the form of mud or sediment, was consolidated, and remained as a cast after dissolution of the mold. (Sentence) For show-and-tell, Rose brought in a steinkern she had found at the beach.

saturnine

/'sad.ә(r),nīn/, adj, (Definition) of a moody or surly character : morose, sullen. (Sentence) Shirley's father-in-law is a saturnine person with a quick temper.

saffron

/'safrәn/, n, (Definition) a deep orange-colored substance consisting of the aromatic pungent dried stigmas of the saffron crocus and used to color and flavor foods. (Sentence) Saffron is the most expensive spice at Walker's Market.

sacalait

/'sakә,lā/, n, (Definition) a crappie that is typically smaller and more silvery than the black crappie and that is highly esteemed as a food fish. (Sentence) Ray and Moira went to the French Quarter to dine on sacalait and cornbread.

salutary

/'salyә,terē/, adj, (Definition) promoting health : curative, restorative. (Sentence) The long vacation had a salutary effect on Grace's mental health.

savvy

/'savē/, n, (Definition) expertness in a particular field based on experience and native ability. (Sentence) Officer Ramos's street savvy was a great help in apprehending drug dealers.

sanctum

/'saŋ(k)tәm/, n, (Definition) a sacred place. (Sentence) The innermost sanctum of the temple in Jerusalem was known as the Holy of Holies.

sanguine

/'saŋgwə̇n/, adj, (Definition) marked by eager hopefulness. (Sentence) Ever sanguine, Kathy said that she would one day win the lottery.

seine

/'sān/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: sane] fish with or catch fish with a net that hangs vertically in the water. (Sentence) David and Joel like to seine for perch.

solder

/'sädә(r)/, v, (Definition) [has homonym: sodder] unite or make whole by means of a melted metallic alloy. (Sentence) Jennifer's science class learned how to solder wires so they could experiment with electrical circuits.

sophomore

/'säf(ә),mō(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a student in his second year or with second-year standing at a college. (Sentence) As a sophomore, Jason was expected to find a one- semester internship in his major subject.

solace

/'sälə̇s/, v, (Definition) [has near homonym: solus] console. (Sentence) When Janie learned she had failed her swimming exam, she decided to solace herself by going out to a movie.

sambal

/'säm,bäl/, n, (Definition) a condiment made typically of peppers, pickles, grated coconut, salt fish, or fish roe and eaten especially with curry and rice in and around Indonesia and Malaya. (Sentence) Mindy ate a bowl of rice with vegetables and sambal for lunch.

cephalopod

/'sefәlә,päd/, n, (Definition) any of a class of marine mollusks including the squids, cuttlefishes, and octopuses all having around the front of the head a group of elongated muscular arms usually furnished with prehensile suckers or hooks. (Sentence) The squid is a ten-armed cephalopod.

cellophane

/'selә,fān/, n, (Definition) a transparent sheet or tube of regenerated cellulose used chiefly for packaging food and merchandise. (Sentence) Nina refused to buy tomatoes packaged in cellophane.

sentinel

/'sent(ə)nәl/, n, (Definition) one that watches or guards. (Sentence) The sentinel peered into the distance through tiny binoculars.

sentry

/'sentrē/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: century] a soldier standing guard. (Sentence) The sentry reported a suspicious vehicle parked down the street from the barracks.

cenotaph

/'senә,taf/, n, (Definition) a tomb or a monument erected in honor of a person whose body is elsewhere. (Sentence) A magnificent cenotaph was erected outside the city of Troy.

scepter

/'septә(r)/, n, (Definition) a staff or baton borne by a sovereign as a ceremonial emblem of authority. (Sentence) When Ben played Henry VIII in the school play, his mother made him a scepter.

cesspool

/'ses,pül/, n, (Definition) an underground catch basin that is used where there is no sewer. (Sentence) A contractor determined the best location for the farmhouse's cesspool.

sesamoid

/'sesә,mŏid/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or being a nodular mass of bone or cartilage in a tendon especially where the tendon passes over a joint or some bony prominence. (Sentence) The doctor decided that the sesamoid mass was not impairing the use of Maria's elbow and did not need to be surgically removed.

seaborne

/'sē,bō(ә)rn/, adj, (Definition) transported by ship. (Sentence) China agreed to take measures to prevent seaborne wood from introducing the pesky wood-eating beetle to the United States.

Sikhism

/'sē,kizәm/, n, (Definition) a monotheistic religion of India founded about A.D. 1500 and marked by rejection of idolatry and caste. (Sentence) The last month of the world religion class was devoted to Sikhism.

ceiling

/'sēliŋ/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: sealing] the overhead inside lining of a room. (Sentence) There was a terrible crash from inside the wagon that sounded as if a whole set of dishes had been dropped from the ceiling onto a hard stone floor.

coelostat

/'sēlә,stat/, n, (Definition) a device consisting of a flat mirror that is turned slowly by a motor to reflect the Sun continuously into a fixed telescope. (Sentence) Professor Merkle plans to use a coelostat to photograph the movements of planetary bodies.

sepia

/'sēpēә/, n, (Definition) a pigment of rich brown color containing melanin, prepared from the ink of various cuttlefishes, and used in watercolor painting and in ink. (Sentence) Black-and-white photographs can be stained with sepia to give them an old-fashioned look.

seizure

/'sēzhә(r)/, n, (Definition) a sudden attack (as of a disease or sickness). (Sentence) A seizure of hay fever ruined the picnic for Tom.

sphinx

/'sfiŋ(k)s/, n, (Definition) a monster in Greek mythology having typically a lion's body, wings, and the head and bust of a woman. (Sentence) According to Greek legend, the sphinx of Thebes would pose a riddle to a passerby and then kill that person if he or she could not answer it.

shako

/'sha(,)kō/, n, (Definition) a stiff military headdress with a metal plate in front, a high crown, and a plume. (Sentence) Each member of the band wore a plumed shako in parades.

schottische

/'shäd.ish/, n, (Definition) a round dance in duple time characterized by gliding and hopping steps and similar to but slower than the polka. (Sentence) After an hour of dancing the schottische, Ed and Sarah wearily headed for the soda machine.

sheriff

/'sherə̇f/, n, (Definition) a county officer who is usually elected by the people of the county and has the duty of preserving the peace. (Sentence) The office of sheriff is a holdover from medieval English law.

sheepshearer

/'shēp,shirә(r)/, n, (Definition) a person that cuts the wool from sheep by hand or machine. (Sentence) At the county fair, the sheepshearer always draws the largest crowd.

shindig

/'shin,dig/, n, (Definition) a jovial social affair that includes dancing. (Sentence) Max hosted the shindig at the hotel.

showstopper

/'shō,stäpә(r)/, n, (Definition) an act, song, or performer that wins applause so prolonged as to interrupt a performance. (Sentence) The song "Memory" proved to be the showstopper in the musical Cats.

chauffeur

/'shōfә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: shofar, shophar] one that is employed to operate a motor vehicle for the transportation of persons. (Sentence) Henry hired a chauffeur to pick up his grandmother at the airport.

shriek

/'shrēk/, n, (Definition) a shrill, usually wild or involuntary cry. (Sentence) Nancy let out a shriek when her little brother dropped an ice cube down the back of her dress.

schuss

/'shůs/, n, (Definition) a straightaway skiing course. (Sentence) In a tucked position Kira followed the schuss all the way to the bottom.

citadel

/'sid.әdəl/, n, (Definition) a fortress that commands a city both for control and defense; broadly : a strong fortress. (Sentence) The citadel had three separate walls around it so that defenders could retreat again and again to a position of safety.

ciliary

/'silē,erē/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to minute hairlike processes found on many cells. (Sentence) Careful inspection revealed the microbe's movement was ciliary, not flagellary, in nature.

sylph

/'silf/, n, (Definition) a slender woman or girl of light and graceful carriage. (Sentence) One sylph after another joined the growing circle of ballerinas on the stage.

silica

/'silə̇kә/, n, (Definition) the chemically resistant dioxide of a nonmetallic element that occurs in combined form as the most abundant element next to oxygen in Earth's crust. (Sentence) Nora learned from her research that silica is used for making glass and ceramic products and is found naturally in quartz and sand.

silicon

/'silə̇kәn/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with silicone.] a nonmetallic element that occurs abundantly in combined form and is used chiefly in the form of alloys. (Sentence) The scientist was striving to devise a new method for purifying silicon for use in fabricating microchips.

syllabus

/'silә,bәs/, n, (Definition) a compendium or summary outline of a discourse, course of study, or examination requirements. (Sentence) After reading the syllabus for the seminar, Brad realized he had made a terrible mistake by enrolling.

syllogism

/'silә,jizәm/, n, (Definition) a brief form of argument that consists of two statements and a conclusion that must be true if these two statements are true. (Sentence) The following argument is a syllogism: All lawbreakers deserve punishment. This person is a lawbreaker. Therefore, this person deserves punishment.

cymbiform

/'simbə̇,fŏrm/, adj, (Definition) boat-shaped. (Sentence) While discussing the skeletal system, Mr. Gray called the students' attention to a small cymbiform bone in the wrist.

simnel

/'simnәl/, n, (Definition) a rich fruit cake sometimes covered with almond paste. (Sentence) Auntie Grace always serves simnel during the December holidays.

simile

/'simә(,)lē/, n, (Definition) a figure of speech comparing two essentially unlike things and often introduced by like or as. (Sentence) Kermit has a pet chicken and knows firsthand what the simile "as scarce as hens' teeth" means.

syndicate

/'sində̇kə̇t/, n, (Definition) a loose association of racketeers in control of organized crime. (Sentence) The police have spent years trying to get evidence to convict the head of the local crime syndicate.

cereal

/'sirēәl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: serial] a prepared foodstuff of grain (as oatmeal or cornflakes) used especially as a breakfast food. (Sentence) David was eating his cereal when the school bus drove by his house.

cis

/'sis/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym and near homonym: sis and cyst] having or characterized by certain atoms or groups on the same side of the molecule. (Sentence) Greg said that cis isomers and trans isomers were molecules made of the same combination of atoms, but in different configurations and often with very different properties.

syzygy

/'sizәjē/, n, (Definition) the nearly straight-line configuration of three celestial bodies in a gravitational system. (Sentence) Tides are highest when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are in syzygy.

Cyclops

/'sī,kläps/, n, (Definition) one of a race of giants in Greek mythology with a single eye in the middle of the forehead. (Sentence) Kirk found a mask that would help make him a perfect Cyclops at the masquerade party.

cyclical

/'sīklə̇kәl/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or belonging to a regularly recurring succession of events or phenomena. (Sentence) Mr. Ramirez explained the cyclical phases of the Moon to the science class today.

simulcast

/'sīmәl,kast/, v, (Definition) broadcast by radio and television simultaneously. (Sentence) Years ago, radio and television stations would sometimes simulcast operatic performances to provide listeners with quality stereophonic sound.

cynosure

/'sīnә,shů(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a center of attraction or interest. (Sentence) The student union, with its billiard tables, bowling alley, and snack bar, is a cynosure for freshmen during orientation week.

scabbard

/'skabә(r)d/, n, (Definition) a usually leather or metal sheath in which the blade of a sword, dagger, bayonet, or other cutting weapon is enclosed when not in use. (Sentence) The knight began to pull his sword from its scabbard, but a look from the queen stopped him.

scoundrel

/'skaůndrәl/, n, (Definition) a bold selfish person who has very low ethical standards. (Sentence) The treasurer of the company was fired when he was found out to be an opportunistic scoundrel.

scholarly

/'skälә(r)lē/, adj, (Definition) characteristic of one who is devoted to learning : studious. (Sentence) Nathan's scholarly habits earned him a spot on the honor roll.

skimeister

/'skē,mīstә(r)/, n, (Definition) [Note: Caution should be taken not to confuse second part of this compound word with master.] a professional skier or skiing instructor. (Sentence) Diantha pretended to be a poor skier just to get close to the handsome skimeister.

scopate

/'skō,pāt/, adj, (Definition) resembling a brush. (Sentence) Some cacti have scopate flowers.

scrumptious

/'skrәm(p)shәs/, adj, (Definition) delightful, excellent. (Sentence) The bakery down the street makes a scrumptious almond coffee cake.

squally

/'skwŏlē/, adj, (Definition) marked by sudden violent winds often accompanied by rain or snow. (Sentence) When the weather became squally, the fishing boats headed back to port.

scutage

/'skyüd.ij/, n, (Definition) a tax or fine levied against one who does not render required military service. (Sentence) The young man resolved to pay the scutage rather than join the duke's army.

skewer

/'skyüә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: skua] a pin of wood or metal for fastening meat to keep in form while roasting or to hold small pieces of meat and vegetables for broiling. (Sentence) Maggie put pieces of steak and vegetables on the skewer.

scourge

/'skәrj/, n, (Definition) a social evil. (Sentence) Much of the city's crime is attributed to the scourge of recurrent unemployment.

sluice

/'slüs/, n, (Definition) a body of water pent up behind a floodgate. (Sentence) Ellen crossed the sluice in a canoe.

snifter

/'sniftә(r)/, n, (Definition) a large short-stemmed goblet with a bowl narrowing toward the top in which the aroma of brandy can be savored before drinking. (Sentence) Heather poured a bit of calvados into a snifter.

snood

/'snüd/, n, (Definition) a net or fabric bag for confining a woman's hair pinned or tied on at the back of the head. (Sentence) Kathryn auditioned for a part in the Noel Coward play wearing a tea-length gown and snood from the 1930s.

soulless

/'sōllə̇s/, adj, (Definition) having no manifestation of a spiritual or moral nature. (Sentence) After several years in a city they found soulless, Arthur and Sylvia bought a dairy farm in Vermont.

sociable

/'sōshәbәl/, adj, (Definition) enjoying companionship. (Sentence) The dolphin is one of the most sociable creatures known to man.

sorbet

/'sŏrbə̇t/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with sherbet.] a frozen dessert made with a mixture of fruits. (Sentence) Wylie ate sorbet between courses to cleanse his palate.

spacistor

/'spā,sistә(r)/, n, (Definition) a high-frequency semiconductor amplifying device. (Sentence) The spacistor has replaced the transistor because of its greater ability to amplify electrical energy.

spectrum

/'spektrәm/, n, (Definition) a series of images formed when a beam of light is subjected to dispersion. (Sentence) The specialty store carried a spectrum of ties to suit any man's taste.

species

/'spē(,)shēz/, n pl, (Definition) a category of biological classification ranking immediately below a genus or subgenus. (Sentence) The housefly belongs to the genus Musca and the species domestica.

spinnaker

/'spinə̇kә(r)/, n, (Definition) a large triangular sail set on a long light pole and used when running before the wind. (Sentence) The spinnaker on Diane's boat is cardinal red.

spinet

/'spinə̇t/, n, (Definition) a compactly built upright piano of reduced height and usually reduced keyboard suitable for limited space. (Sentence) Percival didn't have room for a full-size piano in his studio apartment, so he bought a spinet.

stupor

/'st(y)üpә(r)/, n, (Definition) a chiefly mental condition marked by absence of spontaneous movement, greatly diminished responsiveness to stimulation, and usually impaired consciousness. (Sentence) After staying up all night to study, Ellen ended up taking her exam in a stupor.

stationary

/'stāshә,nerē/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: stationery] fixed in a place, position, course, or mode. (Sentence) The clerk calmly remained in a stationary position.

stationery

/'stāshә,nerē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: stationary] materials (as paper, pens, pencils, ink, blankbooks, ledgers, and cards) for writing or typing. (Sentence) Claudia complained that just before the beginning of every school year the office stationery began to disappear.

starboard

/'stärbәrd/, n, (Definition) the right side of a ship or airplane looking forward. (Sentence) The tour guide pointed to starboard when porpoises began leaping in the water.

steed

/'stēd/, n, (Definition) horse. (Sentence) The slow-moving steed could not be coaxed or forced to move any faster.

stichic

/'stikik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or consisting of lines that are rhythmic units : arranged or divided by lines : serial in succession or recurrence. (Sentence) Ancient Greek dramatists used stichic form for spoken dialogues.

stinkstone

/'stiŋk,stōn/, n, (Definition) a stone that emits a fetid smell on being struck or rubbed owing to decomposition of organic matter. (Sentence) Stinkstone, a variety of limestone, is also called swinestone.

stratagem

/'strad.ə̇jə̇m/, n, (Definition) a cleverly contrived trick or scheme for gaining an end. (Sentence) Barb was disappointed that her mother saw through her stratagem for staying out past curfew.

strident

/'strīdənt/, adj, (Definition) marked by insistent, discordant, harsh, shrill, or grating noise or sound. (Sentence) Mary-Ellen's fingernails produced a strident sound as she drew them across the blackboard.

pseudodoxy

/'südō,däksē/, n, (Definition) an erroneous belief; also : the holding of erroneous beliefs. (Sentence) The pseudodoxy that walking under a ladder will bring bad luck is still held by many reasonable people.

swineherd

/'swīn,hәrd/, n, (Definition) a person who looks after hogs. (Sentence) Ian loathed his job as a swineherd.

sublunary

/'sәblü,nerē/, adj, (Definition) characteristic of or pertinent to this world : terrestrial, mundane. (Sentence) One suffragette declared that men had undertaken the "absolute control of all sublunary matters."

subsidize

/'sәbsә,dīz/, v, (Definition) aid or promote (as a private enterprise) with public money. (Sentence) The fact that taxpayers subsidize some tobacco growers continues to irritate many nonsmokers.

substitute

/'sәbztә,tüt/, n, (Definition) a person who takes the place of or acts for another. (Sentence) When Donald fouled out of the basketball game, the coach decided to send in a substitute who had been warming the bench for weeks.

succotash

/'sәkә,tash/, n, (Definition) a mixture of lima beans or shell beans and kernels of corn cooked together. (Sentence) Even though Thelma likes both corn and lima beans, she isn't fond of succotash.

sumptuous

/'sәm(p)chәwәs/, adj, (Definition) involving large outlay or expense : costly, lavish. (Sentence) Our grandparents treated the whole family to a sumptuous brunch on Saturday.

sumpter

/'sәm(p)tәr/, n, (Definition) a saddlebag. (Sentence) Grandpa's sumpter is embossed with his initials.

sirloin

/'sәr,lŏin/, n, (Definition) a cut of meat and especially of beef taken from the hindquarters. (Sentence) The butcher cut the sirloin into steaks for his customers.

serpentine

/'sәrpәn,tēn/, adj, (Definition) winding or turning one way and another. (Sentence) All the tourists love to drive down the steep serpentine street.

servile

/'sәrvәl/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: serval] of, relating to, or appropriate to slaves. (Sentence) Oscar was thankful to be be freed from his servile status.

tumulus

/'t(y)ümyәlәs/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: tumulous] an artificial hillock or mound (as over a grave). (Sentence) In the center of the cemetery is a large tumulus where one of the town's founders is buried.

tableau

/'ta,blō/, n, (Definition) [Note: Plural form can be pronounced similarly.] a static depiction usually presented on a stage with participants in appropriate costume. (Sentence) The final scene is a tableau in which the family is gathered at the gravesite.

tabernacle

/'tabә(r),nakәl/, n, (Definition) a meetinghouse with a large assembly hall. (Sentence) The town meeting will be held at the tabernacle.

tattersall

/'tad.ә(r),sŏl/, n, (Definition) a fabric having a pattern of colored lines forming squares of solid background. (Sentence) Jeanne bought a blue-and-white tattersall to make into a skirt.

talcky

/'talkē/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or containing talc. (Sentence) Benedict noticed that the rocks scattered on the path had a talcky appearance.

tamarind

/'tamәrə̇nd/, n, (Definition) the fruit of a widely cultivated tropical tree that has seeds that are cooked and also ground into meal. (Sentence) After dinner, Ravi offered his visitors some sweets made from tamarind.

tariff

/'tarə̇f/, n, (Definition) the duty or rate of duty imposed by a government on imported or exported goods. (Sentence) A high tariff protects the home industries from foreign competition.

tarragon

/'tarә,gän/, n, (Definition) a small European perennial wormwood grown for its aromatic foliage that is used in cooking. (Sentence) Paul planted tarragon in his herb garden.

tapir

/'tāpә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: taper] any of a genus of chiefly nocturnal hoofed mammals of tropical America and Myanmar to Sumatra that have the snout and upper lip prolonged into a short flexible proboscis. (Sentence) The tapir is both a browser and a grazer, feeding on leaves, twigs, and fruits, as well as on grasses.

tocsin

/'täksə̇n/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: toxin] an alarm bell or the ringing of a bell for the purpose of alarm. (Sentence) In the event of a natural disaster or a civil alert, the fire stations would set off a tocsin that could be heard for two miles in any direction.

tartar

/'tärd.әr/, n, (Definition) [has homonym and near homonyms: tarter and tartare, Tatar] an incrustation on the teeth consisting of salivary secretion, food residue, and various salts. (Sentence) The hygienist carefully removed the tartar from Rekha's teeth.

ptarmic

/'tärmik/, n, (Definition) a substance that causes sneezing. (Sentence) Andrea is extremely allergic to dust, an everpresent ptarmic difficult for her to avoid.

telephone

/'telә,fōn/, n, (Definition) a device for reproducing sounds, especially articulate speech, at a distance. (Sentence) Ginger's parents asked her to limit her time on the telephone to three 15-minute conversations per night.

television

/'telә,vizhәn/, n, (Definition) a medium of communication whereby images and sounds are broadcast to receiving sets. (Sentence) If it weren't for television, Jack wouldn't know what was going on in the world.

tendency

/'tendәnsē/, n, (Definition) a proneness to or readiness for a particular kind of thought or action. (Sentence) Tom's tendency to say exactly what he feels has gotten him into trouble several times.

tenet

/'tenə̇t/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: tenant] a principle, dogma, belief, or doctrine generally held to be true; especially : one held in common by members of a group or profession. (Sentence) The basic tenet of Central High's Key Club is that community service benefits everyone.

tenon

/'tenәn/, n, (Definition) a projecting member in a piece of wood or other material for insertion into a mortise to make a joint. (Sentence) Curtis used his jigsaw to cut a tenon on each board of the box he was making.

terran

/'terәn/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: terrain] Earth inhabitant. (Sentence) "The terran departed Hartux Station three hours ago at warp speed," said Glarg.

testimony

/'testә,mōnē/, n, (Definition) a solemn declaration usually made orally by a witness under oath in response to interrogation by a lawyer or authorized public official. (Sentence) According to Victoria's testimony, she had just returned from vacation when she discovered that the statue was missing.

thallophyte

/'thalә,fīt/, n, (Definition) any plant of a primary division of the plant kingdom including the algae and fungi. (Sentence) A fungus is a non-chlorophyll-bearing thallophyte.

thesmothete

/'thezmә,thēt/, n, (Definition) lawgiver, legislator. (Sentence) Joseph has in his office a marble bust of a famous Athenian thesmothete.

thylacine

/'thīlә,sīn/, n, (Definition) a now-extinct somewhat doglike carnivorous marsupial that formerly inhabited Tasmania—called also "Tasmanian wolf." (Sentence) The female thylacine had a rearward-opening pouch in which two to four young were carried.

throstle

/'thräsәl/, n, (Definition) a largely olive-brown Old World perching bird noted for its song. (Sentence) While on a walking tour in London, Madeline spotted a throstle in a sycamore tree.

threnody

/'threnәdē/, n, (Definition) a song, poem, composition, or speech of lamentation especially for someone dead or something regarded as dead. (Sentence) Asked to write a threnody for English class, Libby composed a song about the death of a robin.

tincture

/'tiŋ(k)chә(r)/, n, (Definition) hue, tint. (Sentence) The main difference between American and Irish glass is in tincture.

taiga

/'tīgә/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: tiger] swampy coniferous forest of Siberia beginning where the tundra ends. (Sentence) Olga's great-grandfather was born in a cabin on the edge of the taiga and grew up playing among spruce and fir trees.

taupe

/'tōp/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: tope] a light brownish gray. (Sentence) It took some time, but Pam finally matched the taupe of her dress to a pair of shoes.

transience

/'tranzēәnts/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: transients] the quality or state of passing through or by only briefly. (Sentence) The photographer is able to capture transience by being ready to click the shutter at the crucial moment.

troglodyte

/'träglә,dīt/, n, (Definition) a member of a primitive people dwelling in caves or pits. (Sentence) While spelunking, Zan and Patrick stumbled on the bones of a troglodyte.

trianon

/'trēә,nän/, n, (Definition) a small elegant villa. (Sentence) Albert wrote his latest thriller in a rented trianon on the Riviera.

trough

/'trŏf/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] an elongated area of low barometric pressure usually with a minimum pressure at each end and between two areas of higher pressure. (Sentence) Eric listened to the weather forecaster explain how the local weather was being influenced by the trough that was present.

troika

/'trŏikә/, n, (Definition) a group of three. (Sentence) Astrology, yoga, and poetry are the troika of humanities that most interest Bryce.

turbine

/'tәrbə̇n/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: turban] a rotary engine. (Sentence) The plane could not take off until the damaged turbine was repaired.

turban

/'tәrbәn/, n, (Definition) countries of the eastern Mediterranean and southern Asia especially by Muslims and made of a cap around which is wound a long cloth. (Sentence) A camel driver wearing a blue turban asked Rebecca if she would like a short ride.

tergiversate

/'tәrjə̇vәr,sāt/, v, (Definition) evade straightforward action or clearcut statement of position. (Sentence) While political leaders tergiversate, petty tyrants are taking over the country.

turret

/'tәrə̇t/, n, (Definition) a little tower. (Sentence) The princess escaped from the turret by sliding down a rope of knotted bedsheets.

tungsten

/'tәŋstə̇n/, n, (Definition) a gray-white high-melting hard metallic element that is used in the pure form chiefly for electrical purposes (as for filaments for incandescent lamps). (Sentence) The filament in many light bulbs is a thin wire of tungsten.

umlaut

/'ům,laůt/, n, (Definition) a diacritical mark composed of two adjacent dots placed especially over a German vowel to indicate a vowel shift. (Sentence) Gary never knew how to pronounce words with an umlaut until he studied German.

vacantly

/'vākәntlē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner characterized by absence of thought and reflection : idly, inanely. (Sentence) Kevin was staring vacantly out the classroom window when the teacher asked him if he knew the answer to the question.

volucrine

/'välyә,krīn/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to birds. (Sentence) The adoption program at the zoo raised more money for the volucrine residents than for any other group of animals.

vestibule

/'vestә,byül/, n, (Definition) a passage, hall, or chamber between the outer door and the interior of a building. (Sentence) The elevators were located at the end of the vestibule.

velodrome

/'vēlә,drōm/, n, (Definition) a building containing a track designed for cycling. (Sentence) The university's new velodrome was funded by an alumnus who was an ardent bicyclist.

villain

/'vilə̇n/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: villein, villan] one who deliberately plots and does serious harm to others. (Sentence) The police were seeking the villain who conned several senior citizens out of their savings.

vitiate

/'vishē,āt/, v, (Definition) make incomplete, faulty, or defective : injure the substance or quality of. (Sentence) Freddie argued that Clark's poor acting abilities would vitiate the school play.

viscous

/'viskәs/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with viscose.] having the physical property of a fluid or semifluid that enables it to develop a certain amount of shearing stress dependent upon the velocity of flow and then to offer continued resistance to the flow. (Sentence) Joe was surprised to learn that glass is viscous, as evidenced by the fact that a windowpane, over time, becomes thicker at its lower edge and thinner at its upper edge.

viscid

/'visə̇d/, adj, (Definition) having an adhesive quality : gluey, sticky. (Sentence) Katie gazed in fascination at the steaming vat of viscid sap, which would soon be maple syrup.

vitreous

/'vitrēәs/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, derived from, or consisting of glass. (Sentence) The huge vitreous wall of skyscrapers reflected the mountains and the sunset.

viscount

/'vī,kaůnt/, n, (Definition) a noble ranking below an earl and above a baron. (Sentence) The viscount had no children and was becoming desperate to have an heir.

viand

/'vīәnd/, n, (Definition) an article of food. (Sentence) The pantry was so full that there wasn't room for a single viand more.

verjuice

/'vәr,jüs/, n, (Definition) the sour juice of crab apples or other unripe fruit. (Sentence) Scrooge was the kind of person who looked as though he drank verjuice every morning.

verdure

/'vәrjәr/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: verger] fresh and green growing vegetation. (Sentence) Joe walked back into the soft thick verdure of the hills and tramped until he was tired.

verminous

/'vәrmәnәs/, adj, (Definition) infested by small animals (as lice, bedbugs, mice) that tend to occur in great numbers, are difficult to control, and are offensive as well as injurious. (Sentence) Mayor Skopek promised to demolish the verminous abandoned buildings.

versicle

/'vәrsə̇kәl/, n, (Definition) a brief poem or set of metrical lines. (Sentence) When he couldn't sleep, Lord Byron often sat up and wrote a versicle or two.

versatile

/'vәrsәd.əl/, adj, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] marked by a tendency to change : fluctuating readily. (Sentence) Tricia's versatile temperament made it impossible to predict her reactions.

wary

/'wa(a)rē/, adj, (Definition) marked by keen caution, cunning, and watchful prudence in detecting and escaping danger. (Sentence) The negotiator's subtle diplomacy and wary tactics were the result of years of experience.

warily

/'wa(a)rə̇lē/, adv, (Definition) cautiously. (Sentence) The toddler approached the puppy warily.

wasteweir

/'wāst,wi(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a notch in a levee or other barrier across a stream for the escape of superfluous water. (Sentence) A wasteweir was constructed in the dam to prevent flooding along the banks of the stream.

wattle

/'wäd.əl/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: waddle] a fabrication of rods or poles interwoven with slender branches, withes, or reeds. (Sentence) Wattle is often used for garden fences in the English countryside.

waft

/'wäft/, v, (Definition) bear along on or as if on a buoyant medium. (Sentence) As the aroma of coffee started to waft into the room, Mory woke up.

webelos

/'wēbә,lōz/, n, (Definition) a Cub Scout of the fifth rank who is at least 101⁄2 years old and is preparing for entrance into Boy Scouts. (Sentence) Noah spent his second year as a webelos working on his fitness, geologist, and handyman activity badges.

wienerwurst

/'wēnә(r),wәrst/, n, (Definition) Vienna sausage. (Sentence) Blaine decided that it was the wienerwurst, not the 14 pickles, that had caused his indigestion.

weir

/'wi(ә)r/, n, (Definition) [has homonyms: weer, we're] a fence or enclosure set in a stream to catch fish. (Sentence) Bored by fishing, the boys set up a weir and went off to play basketball.

windbreaks

/'wind,brāks/, n pl, (Definition) rowed or clumped trees or shrubs that give protection against the wind. (Sentence) The farm presented an orderly appearance with the fencing and hedging, the windbreaks and sheds, and the symmetrical pasture ponds.

wiles

/'wīlz/, n pl, (Definition) [has homonym: whiles] tricks or stratagems intended to ensnare or deceive. (Sentence) George Washington believed that nations must ultimately depend on themselves alone and warned against "the insidious wiles of foreign influence."

woad

/'wōd/, n, (Definition) a blue dye prepared especially formerly from the leaves of a plant of the same name and containing indigo as its essential constituent. (Sentence) The ancient Picts of England were known to use woad to make body paint.

waltz

/'wŏlts/, n, (Definition) a moderately fast dance in three-quarter time with a strong accent on the first beat of the measure and characterized by one step per beat. (Sentence) When the band started playing a waltz, Marilyn hoped that someone would ask her to dance.

warren

/'wŏrə̇n/, n, (Definition) an area especially of uncultivated ground for the breeding of rabbits; also : a place abounding in rabbits. (Sentence) Some of the rabbits in the overpopulated warren went elsewhere to find a place to live.

warranty

/'wŏrәntē/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: warrantee] a usually written guarantee of the integrity of a product specifying that the maker will for a period of time be responsible for the repair or replacement of defective parts. (Sentence) Celeste angrily waved the warranty for her refrigerator under the repairman's nose.

Yarborough

/'yär(,)bәrә/, n, (Definition) a hand in bridge or whist containing no card higher than a nine. (Sentence) Gene was not sure how to signal to his bridge partner that he held a Yarborough.

Yinglish

/'yiŋ(g)lish/, n, (Definition) English marked by numerous borrowings from Yiddish. (Sentence) Max's grandfather speaks a colorful Yinglish with the younger members of his family.

yore

/'yō(ә)r/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: your] time past and especially long since past. (Sentence) Adam's favorite books contain stories about knights of yore.

utilizable

/'yüd.əl,īzәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being made use of. (Sentence) It took three months, but eventually Leon was able to convert the prototype into a utilizable product.

curmudgeon

/(,)kәr'mәjәn/, n, (Definition) a crusty, ill-tempered, or difficult and often elderly person. (Sentence) Fiona's dad called her grandfather a "cantankerous old curmudgeon."

utilitarian

/(,)yü,tilә'terēәn /, adj, (Definition) characterized by or aiming at usefulness as distinguished from beauty or ornament. (Sentence) Dean chose a utilitarian briefcase over the fancy leather model.

tsunami

/(t)sü'nämē/, n, (Definition) a great sea wave produced by submarine earth movements or volcanic eruption. (Sentence) The dock workers were alerted in time to evacuate the harbor area before the tsunami hit.

hacienda

/,(h)äsē'endә/, n, (Definition) the main building of a farm or ranch. (Sentence) A winding, tree-lined driveway led to the hacienda.

humoresque

/,(h)yümә'resk/, n, (Definition) a musical composition typically whimsical or fanciful in character. (Sentence) Schumann's opus 88 is a humoresque for violin, cello, and piano.

herbarium

/,(h)әr'ba(a)rēә m/, n, (Definition) a room, building, or institution housing a collection of dried plant specimens. (Sentence) Jackson was looking forward to visiting the herbarium while on vacation.

abalone

/,abә'lōnē/, n, (Definition) a gastropod mollusk that clings to rocks tenaciously with a broad muscular foot. (Sentence) At the beach, Marta made a necklace from the shell of an abalone.

aborigine

/,abә'rijә(,)nē/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with aborigen.] one of the native people especially as contrasted with an invading or colonizing people. (Sentence) Cathy Freeman, an Australian aborigine, carried the flame into the Olympic stadium.

adrenergic

/,adrә'nәrjik/, adj, (Definition) activated by adrenaline. (Sentence) When her child was threatened, Claire felt adrenergic strength surge through her body.

acromegaly

/,akrō'megәlē/, n, (Definition) a chronic disease of adult life that is characterized by a gradual and permanent enlargement of the flat bones (as the lower jaw) and of the hands and feet, abdominal organs, nose, lips, and tongue. (Sentence) The circus giant was obviously afflicted with acromegaly.

acquiesced

/,akwē'est/, v, (Definition) accepted or complied tacitly or passively. (Sentence) Until recently, Scott acquiesced in most situations involving conflict.

alimentary

/,alә'mentәrē/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with elementary.] of, concerned with, or relating to nourishment or to the function of nutrition. (Sentence) Pasta is sometimes called an "alimentary paste."

antidotal

/,antə̇'dōd.əl/, adj, (Definition) consisting of, suited for, or acting as a remedy able to counteract the effects of poison. (Sentence) Vomiting is often the body's antidotal response to the ingestion of spoiled food.

antecedent

/,antә'sēdənt/, n, (Definition) a substantive word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun, typically by a following pronoun. (Sentence) In the sentence "I saw John and spoke to him," John is the antecedent of him.

anabolic

/,anә'bälik/, adj, (Definition) relating to, characterized by, or promoting constructive metabolism. (Sentence) The weightlifter was disqualified after it was discovered he had used anabolic steroids.

arabesque

/,arә'besk/, n, (Definition) a posture (as in ballet dancing) in ballet in which the body is bent forward from the hip on one leg with one arm extended forward and the other arm and leg backward in a line parallel to the floor. (Sentence) The painting depicts a ballerina in a flawless arabesque.

acidosis

/,asә'dōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a condition of decreased alkalinity of the blood and tissues. (Sentence) James was rushed to the emergency room, where he learned that he was suffering from acidosis.

abiogenic

/,ā,bīō'jenik/, adj, (Definition) not produced by the action of living organisms. (Sentence) Randy explained to the group that rock formations are completely abiogenic.

abecedarius

/,ābē(,)sē'da(a)r ēәs/, n, (Definition) a poem in which the lines or stanzas begin with the letters of the alphabet in regular order. (Sentence) Geoffrey Chaucer wrote a famous abecedarius.

obstetrician

/,äbz,te'trishәn/, n, (Definition) a physician or veterinarian specializing in birth and its antecedents and sequels. (Sentence) The obstetrician often relied more on instincts and old- fashioned psychology than he did on his medical expertise.

ophthalmologis t

/,äf,thal'mälәjə̇st /, n, (Definition) a physician that specializes in the study and treatment of defects and diseases of the eye. (Sentence) Monica goes to the ophthalmologist once a year because she has a family history of glaucoma.

ochlocratic

/,äklә'krad.ik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to mob rule. (Sentence) Pure ochlocratic government would pay no heed to minority voices.

oxymoron

/,äksə̇'mōr,än/, n, (Definition) a combination for epigrammatic effect of contradictory or incongruous words. (Sentence) Dexter feels that the phrase jumbo shrimp is an oxymoron.

oligarchic

/,älә'gärkik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, characteristic of, or supporting a group or organization that is controlled by a privileged few. (Sentence) A society dominated by large-scale oligarchic organizations eventually develops an oligarchic political regime.

onychophagia

/,änәkō'fāj(ē)ә/, n, (Definition) nail-biting. (Sentence) Resa applied a bitter substance to her nails in hopes of curing her onychophagia.

archipelago

/,ärkә'pelә,gō/, n, (Definition) a group or cluster of islands. (Sentence) The country of Indonesia is an enormous archipelago.

osteoporosis

/,ästēōpә'rōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a condition characterized by decrease in bone mass with decreased density and enlargement of bone spaces producing porosity and fragility. (Sentence) Diane's doctor recommended increasing her calcium intake to prevent osteoporosis.

oscillation

/,äsә'lāshәn/, n, (Definition) a swinging or moving backward and forward like a pendulum. (Sentence) Engineers specified that slots be constructed in the deck of the bridge to reduce oscillation.

buffoon

/,bә'fün/, n, (Definition) a person professionally engaged in entertaining others by tricks, gestures, or comic pantomime. (Sentence) Along the midway a buffoon entertained the children with a laughable pantomime.

delicatessen

/,delə̇kә'tesən/, n, (Definition) a store where ready-to-eat food products (as cooked meats and prepared salads) are sold. (Sentence) Marta stopped at the delicatessen to buy some cold cuts for our lunch.

desperado

/,despә'rä(,)dō/, n, (Definition) a bandit of the western frontier. (Sentence) Louis pretended to be a desperado holding up a stagecoach.

disingenuousne ss

/,disə̇n'jenyәwәs nə̇s/, n, (Definition) state of being unworthily or meanly artful. (Sentence) Disingenuousness and double dealing seemed to meet Mr. Churchill at every turn.

dinosauric

/,dīnә'sŏ(ә)rik/, adj, (Definition) huge. (Sentence) Angela was astounded by the dinosauric size of the statue of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial.

dromomania

/,drämә'mānēә/, n, (Definition) an exaggerated desire to wander. (Sentence) Yielding to his dromomania, Jack bought a recreational vehicle and spent the summer touring the country.

doubloons

/,dә'blünz/, n pl, (Definition) old gold coins of Spain and Spanish America worth 16 pieces of eight. (Sentence) "Hang it, Pew, we've got the doubloons!" grumbled one pirate to the other.

doublure

/,dә'blů(ә)r/, n, (Definition) the lining of a book cover; especially : an ornamental lining. (Sentence) The doublure is an important clue in identifying pirated editions of early novels.

exhalation

/,eks(h)ә'lāshәn/, n, (Definition) something that is given off or that rises in the form of gas, fumes, or steam. (Sentence) The wind carried a foul exhalation from the nearby marsh to the Ackrill's house.

ecumenopolis

/,ekyәmə̇'näpәlә s/, n, (Definition) a single city encompassing the whole world that is held to be a possibility of the future. (Sentence) Many science fiction stories are based on the premise of Earth's future ecumenopolis.

embryonic

/,embrē'änik/, adj, (Definition) being in an early and undeveloped stage. (Sentence) Delia disclosed embryonic plans for the new theater.

embryogenesis

/,embrēō'jenәsə̇ s/, n, (Definition) the formation and development of the animal organism in the early stages of growth and differentiation. (Sentence) During early embryogenesis cells differentiate to form various types of tissue.

empanada

/,empә'nädә/, n, (Definition) a turnover filled with meat. (Sentence) For the hike Luke packed an empanada and an apple in his knapsack.

emanation

/,emә'nāshәn/, n, (Definition) a flowing forth. (Sentence) The air was tainted with the musky emanation from the alligator pen.

enorganic

/,enŏ(r)'ganik/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with inorganic.] arising within or inherent in the organism : intrinsic. (Sentence) Ian tried to write an essay describing the difference between enculturated and enorganic forms of ignorance.

egocentricity

/,ēgō(,)sen'trisәd .ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being concerned with oneself rather than with others. (Sentence) The conductor's egocentricity made his interaction with the musicians less than harmonious.

phosphoresce

/,fäsfә'res/, v, (Definition) glow especially in the dark. (Sentence) Emmet's jigsaw puzzle will phosphoresce after being exposed to a strong light source.

physiognomy

/,fizē'ä(g)nәmē/, n, (Definition) the technique or art of discovering temperament and character from outward appearance (as from facial features). (Sentence) The artist's careful study of physiognomy showed up in his brilliant caricatures of politicians.

fluviology

/,flüvē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) a science dealing with watercourses. (Sentence) Oliver needs one course in fluviology in order to get his professional civil engineering license.

galvanometer

/,galvә'nämәd.ә( r)/, n, (Definition) an instrument for detecting or measuring a small electric current by movements of a magnetic needle or of a coil in a magnetic field. (Sentence) The lie detector's galvanometer indicated that the subject was lying.

glottogonic

/,gläd.ō'gänik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the origin of language. (Sentence) Three Russian linguists lectured on their glottogonic research.

grenadier

/,grenә'di(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a soldier who carries and throws missiles consisting of a container fitted with a priming charge and a bursting charge and filled with a destructive agent (as gas, high explosive, incendiary chemicals). (Sentence) The grenadier started the assault, followed immediately by the riflemen.

gourmet

/,gů(ә)r'mā/, n, (Definition) a connoisseur in eating and drinking. (Sentence) At the market the gourmet chose his ingredients with the greatest of care.

Guatemalan

/,gwäd.ә'mälәn/, n, (Definition) a native or inhabitant of Guatemala, a country in Central America. (Sentence) Maria was a Guatemalan by birth, but had become a naturalized Brazilian.

hamadryad

/,hamә'drī,ad/, n, (Definition) a nymph of trees and woods; especially : a nymph whose life begins and ends with that of a particular tree. (Sentence) Darcy sat on a bench in the arboretum and imagined she was a hamadryad.

Hippocratic

/,hipә'krad.ik/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to Hippocrates or to the school of medicine that took his name. (Sentence) Dr. Owens takes the Hippocratic oath literally.

contrition

/kәn'trishәn/, n, (Definition) consciousness of guilt or sin giving rise to humility and sorrow. (Sentence) In the warmth of true contrition she would call upon Miss Bates the very next morning, and it should be the beginning, on her side, of a regular, equal, kindly relationship.

conversion

/kәn'vәrzhәn/, n, (Definition) a change in one's religious orientation marked also by a concomitant change in belief. (Sentence) The conversion of St. Paul on the road to Damascus was a favorite topic of Renaissance painters.

constabulary

/kәnz'tabyә,lerē /, n, (Definition) a body of policemen (as of a particular town, district, country). (Sentence) The local constabulary was out in force at the Halloween celebration.

constituency

/kәnz'tichәwәns ē/, n, (Definition) a body of citizens or voters that is entitled to elect a representative to a legislature or other public body. (Sentence) The representative asked his constituency for opinions on the issue.

longevity

/län'jevәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a long duration of individual life. (Sentence) Mr. Wade's longevity was remarkable, considering he had been sickly as a child.

lieutenant

/lü'tenәnt/, n, (Definition) a military officer in the army, navy, air force, or marine corps. (Sentence) At the end of the novel, the young naval hero was finally promoted to lieutenant.

levade

/lә'väd/, n, (Definition) a show-ring movement in which a horse raises the forequarters, brings the hindquarters under him, and balances with haunches deeply bent and forelegs drawn up. (Sentence) When a horse's body is at a less-than-45-degree angle with the ground, the movement is called a "levade."

lauan

/lә'wän/, n, (Definition) any of various Philippine timbers that are moderately close-grained and rather stringy and of moderate strength and durability. (Sentence) The contractor told Mrs. Zemeckis that hollow-core doors with a veneer of lauan were the most economical choice for her new home.

massif

/ma'sēf/, n, (Definition) a block of Earth's crust bounded by faults or flexures and displaced as a unit without internal change. (Sentence) In the late 13th century a roadway was opened over the St. Gotthard massif in Switzerland.

misfortune

/mis'fŏrchәn/, n, (Definition) an instance of bad luck. (Sentence) What victim of a misfortune has not asked "Why me?"

morceau

/mŏr'sō/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with more so. Also, plural of word can be similarly pronounced.] a short literary or musical piece. (Sentence) Natasha entertained the partygoers with a lively morceau on the violin.

moussaka

/mü'säkә/, n, (Definition) a dish of ground meat (as lamb) and sliced eggplant or potatoes often topped with a seasoned sauce. (Sentence) Dimitrio's restaurant serves the best moussaka in the area.

musician

/myü'zishәn/, n, (Definition) one skilled in music. (Sentence) Although she worked at a bank, Shirley always told people she was a musician when asked what her profession was.

mephitis

/mə̇'fīd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) a noxious, pestilential, or foul exhalation from the earth. (Sentence) Ivy suspected she was approaching the geyser when she smelled a strong mephitis.

Micawber

/mə̇'kŏbә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: macabre] an improvident person who lives in expectation of an upturn in his fortunes. (Sentence) Jenny was careful not to live like a Micawber just because she expected to receive a fellowship.

isotopic

/,īsō'täpik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or having the relationship of one of two or more species of atoms of the same chemical element that have the same atomic number but differ in atomic mass or mass number. (Sentence) Hydrogen, deuterium, and tritium, which differ only in number of neutrons, are three isotopic forms of hydrogen.

ayatollah

/,īә'tōlә/, n, (Definition) a religious leader among Shiite Muslims—used as a title of respect especially for one who is not an imam. (Sentence) When Ayatollah Khomeini gained political control of Iran in 1979, he re-created it as a religious Islamic republic.

jambeau

/,jam'bō/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: jambo] a piece of medieval plate armor for the lower leg. (Sentence) The knight staggered under a blow that left a groove across his jambeau.

geriatrics

/,jerē'atriks/, n pl, (Definition) a branch of medicine that deals with the problems and diseases of old age and aging people. (Sentence) Marie's expertise in geriatrics made her well qualified to work in the city's Department of Aging.

geosynchronou s

/,jēō'siŋkrәnәs/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to an artificial satellite that travels from west to east above the equator and at the same angular velocity as that of Earth so that the satellite seems to remain in the same place. (Sentence) Satellites that handle telephone calls and television signals are in geosynchronous orbits above Earth.

millennium

/mə̇'lenēәm/, n, (Definition) a period of 1,000 years. (Sentence) In his "Four Freedoms" speech, Franklin D. Roosevelt stressed that his vision was not that of a distant millennium.

militia

/mə̇'lishә/, n, (Definition) a reserve unit of the armed forces. (Sentence) Captain Weston's military career began when he entered his county's militia.

minacious

/mə̇'nāshәs/, adj, (Definition) of a menacing or threatening character. (Sentence) Though the butler seemed minacious, he was not the culprit.

misogamist

/mə̇'sägәmə̇st/, n, (Definition) one who hates marriage. (Sentence) Ben explained that although he enjoys being a bachelor, he is not a misogamist.

jambalaya

/,jәmbә'līә/, n, (Definition) rice cooked with ham, sausage, chicken, shrimp, or oysters and usually tomato and seasoned with herbs. (Sentence) No trip to New Orleans would be complete without sampling a bowl of spicy jambalaya.

journalese

/,jәrnəl'ēz/, n, (Definition) a style of writing held to be characteristic of newspapers. (Sentence) The word transpired is considered journalese because it rarely occurs outside of newspapers.

cariogenic

/,ka(a)rēō'jenik/, adj, (Definition) conducive to the development of tooth decay. (Sentence) The combination of saliva with food is the first step in digestion; unfortunately, it is also very cariogenic.

chalicosis

/,kalә'kōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a pulmonary disease occurring among stonecutters that is caused by inhalation of stone dust. (Sentence) Chalicosis afflicted an alarming number of workers at the monument plant.

candelabra

/,kandә'läbrә/, n, (Definition) a usually ornate and often heavy and large standard supporting a candlestick or lamp. (Sentence) In December Stella put red and green candles in her candelabra on the mantle.

cappelletti

/,kapә'led.ē/, n pl, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with cavalletti.] small cases of dough usually filled with meat or cheese. (Sentence) Bo and Annette dined on cappelletti in marinara sauce.

cavalletti

/,kavә'led.ē/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with cappelletti.] a series of timber jumps that are adjustable in height for schooling horses. (Sentence) Black Beauty easily jumped over the cavalletti as Justin watched with pride.

quesadilla

/,kāsә'dēyә/, n, (Definition) a turnover made usually with a cheese filling. (Sentence) Joyce usually eats a quesadilla as an afternoon snack.

condescension

/,kändə̇'senchәn /, n, (Definition) an act or instance of assuming an air of superiority (as to one inferior or less fortunate). (Sentence) With dry condescension Mr. Blain describes the natives as "primitive" and "uncivilized."

condescended

/,kändə̇'sendə̇d/, v, (Definition) stooped or bent to action or speech less formal or dignified than is customary in one's social rank. (Sentence) The rajah condescended to seat himself on a rug under the tree.

connotations

/,känә'tāshәnz/, n pl, (Definition) things implied or suggested by a word or sometimes by a thing : implications. (Sentence) Calling Carl's behavior juvenile had negative connotations for him.

cosmogenesis

/,käzmō'jenәsə̇s /, n, (Definition) a part of the science of astronomy that deals with the origin and development of the universe. (Sentence) Contrary to his expectations, Lionel's study of cosmogenesis made him more religious.

congregation

/,käŋgrə̇'gāshәn/, n, (Definition) an assembly of persons : gathering; especially : an assembly of persons met for the worship of God and for religious instruction. (Sentence) The pastor asked the congregation to support the upcoming blood drive.

keratoderma

/,kerәd.ō'dәrmә /, n, (Definition) a hard, callous condition of the skin. (Sentence) The patient's keratoderma caused him pain and loss of movement.

kinetosis

/,kinә'tōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) sickness induced by motion and characterized by nausea. (Sentence) Before boarding the ship, Claire made sure she had brought along medication for kinetosis.

clientele

/,klīәn'tel/, n, (Definition) a body of patrons or customers. (Sentence) Bill hopes to enlarge the clientele of the shoe store.

coriander

/,kōrē'andә(r)/, n, (Definition) an Old World herb whose ripened dried fruit is used for flavoring especially of pickles, curries, confectioneries, and liquor. (Sentence) Jane almost always uses coriander to season her stew.

coalescence

/,kōә'lesən(t)s/, n, (Definition) a growing together or union in one body, form, or group. (Sentence) Rain is the result of the coalescence of water droplets within a cloud.

meticulosity

/mə̇,tikyә'läsәd. ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being extremely painstaking in the consideration or treatment of details. (Sentence) The gallery visitor marveled at the artist's meticulosity in depicting details so realistically.

mahout

/mә'haůt/, n, (Definition) a keeper and driver of an elephant. (Sentence) The mahout trained his elephant to move logs.

mahogany

/mә'hägәnē/, n, (Definition) the durable yellowish brown to reddish brown wood of a West Indian tree that is widely used for cabinetwork and fine finish work. (Sentence) Kate's bedroom furniture is made of solid mahogany.

magenta

/mә'jentә/, n, (Definition) a deep purplish red; specifically : one of the subtractive primary colors. (Sentence) The visual afterimage of magenta is green.

macumba

/mә'kümbә/, n, (Definition) a Brazilian ritual or cult that is largely of African origin and combines sorcery with dancing, drumming, and chanting. (Sentence) The tourists were invited to see an exhibition of macumba in Rio de Janeiro.

malaria

/mә'lerēә/, n, (Definition) a disease caused by sporozoan parasites in the red blood cells, transmitted by the bite of anopheline mosquitoes, and characterized by periodic attacks of chills and fevers. (Sentence) During the construction of the Panama Canal many workers succumbed to malaria.

malleolus

/mә'lēәlәs/, n, (Definition) [has somewhat near homonym: malleus] the rounded lateral projection on each bone of the leg at the ankle. (Sentence) When Marcie realized that her brother was about to reveal her secret, she kicked him on the malleolus.

monadnock

/mә'nad,näk/, n, (Definition) a hill or mountain of resistant rock surmounting an eroded plain. (Sentence) The familiar shape of the monadnock was a landmark for travelers.

monastic

/mә'nastik/, adj, (Definition) secluded from earthly concerns and devoted to religion. (Sentence) Though many people enjoy a period of retreat from materialism and worldliness, real commitment to a monastic life is rare.

monology

/mә'nälәjē/, n, (Definition) the habit of talking to oneself. (Sentence) Dmitri defended his monology, saying that only if he argued with himself should it be of concern.

meringue

/mә'raŋ/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: marang] a mixture of beaten egg whites and powdered sugar baked at low temperature and used as a topping (as on pies and puddings). (Sentence) Thelma scraped the meringue off her pie.

masseter

/mә'sēd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a large muscle that raises the lower jaw and assists in chewing. (Sentence) Tracy argued that she was trying to strengthen her masseter, but Mr. Gold made her throw out her chewing gum anyway.

metrology

/mә'trälәjē/, n, (Definition) the science of weights and measures. (Sentence) Nobody as a child really plans a career in metrology; like lexicography, it comes into one's life by chance.

pneumatic

/n(y)ü'mad.ik/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: neumatic] adapted for holding compressed air : inflated with air. (Sentence) The development of the pneumatic tire was a major advance for the bicycle.

numismatist

/n(y)ü'mizmәd.ə̇ st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the study of coins : a coin collector. (Sentence) When Emery wanted to know the value of a coin, he showed it to his neighbor, who was a numismatist.

cornucopia

/,kŏ(r)n(y)ә'kōpē ә/, n, (Definition) a curved goat's horn from the mouth of which fruit and ears of corn overflow, emblematic of abundance—called also "horn of plenty." (Sentence) Robert placed various kinds of rolls in the basket shaped like a cornucopia and set it in the center of the table.

crocodilian

/,kräkә'dilēәn/, adj, (Definition) false, insincere. (Sentence) Claire's crocodilian grief over the death of her brother's pet snake did not fool anyone.

cuchifrito

/,küchi'frēd.ō/, n, (Definition) a deep-fried cube of pork. (Sentence) When Lane wasn't looking, Stephanie popped a cuchifrito into the dog's mouth.

cucaracha

/,kükә'rächә/, n, (Definition) a Mexican ballroom and nightclub dance. (Sentence) Determined to win the state ballroom dance title, Joan and Marlon practiced their cucaracha for weeks.

quadrilateral

/,kwädrә'lad.әrәl /, n, (Definition) a plane figure of four sides and consequently four angles. (Sentence) The perimeter of a baseball diamond forms a quadrilateral.

quasquicentenn ial

/,kwäskwē,sen't enēәl/, n, (Definition) a 125th anniversary. (Sentence) The city of Corner Brook, founded in 1873, is hosting a large celebration for its quasquicentennial this summer.

cumulonimbus

/,kyümyә,lō'nim bәs/, n, (Definition) thundercloud. (Sentence) As Stephanie drove down Interstate 80, she could see a dark cumulonimbus approaching from the west.

lapidicolous

/,lapә'dikәlәs/, adj, (Definition) living under a stone—used especially of an insect. (Sentence) As Jake overturned the large stone, he saw hundreds of lapidicolous beetles scurrying about.

leoncito

/,lāәn'sē(,)tō/, n, (Definition) a lion monkey; any of several South American marmosets. (Sentence) The leoncito has a mane of fur around its head like a lion.

longanimity

/,läŋgә'nimәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a disposition to bear injuries patiently : forbearance. (Sentence) Murphy's Law strikes often in George's project, but his longanimity will help him weather all setbacks.

lexicology

/,leksә'kälәgē/, n, (Definition) the science of the derivation and signification of words. (Sentence) Jim is working on a graduate degree in lexicology and has his heart set on becoming a dictionary editor.

literati

/,lid.ә'räd.ē/, n pl, (Definition) the educated class : intelligentsia. (Sentence) The New York literati gathered at the book-signing party.

lithification

/,lithәfə̇'kāshәn/, n, (Definition) the conversion of unconsolidated sediments into solid rock. (Sentence) Ben's science project explained how limestone is formed by lithification.

luminaire

/,lümә'na(a)(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a complete lighting unit including lamp, shade, reflector, fixture, and other accessories. (Sentence) A luminaire was built into each cubicle in the office.

luncheonette

/,lәnchә'net/, n, (Definition) a place where light lunches are sold. (Sentence) After playing racquetball, Jaime stopped at the luncheonette for a sandwich.

marionette

/,ma(a)rēә'net/, n, (Definition) a puppet moved by strings or by hand (as in a puppet show). (Sentence) A marionette of Jay Leno was the hit of the show.

Madagascar

/,madә'gaskә(r)/, adj, (Definition) of or from Madagascar, an island in the Indian Ocean. (Sentence) Lemurs, cute large-eyed furry monkey-like animals, are the best known Madagascar fauna.

magnanimity

/,magnә'nimәd. ē/, n, (Definition) a nobility of feeling that is superior to meanness, pettiness, or jealousy and that disdains revenge or retaliation. (Sentence) The philosopher praised the victor's magnanimity in allowing the captives to return home.

malaguena

/,malә'gānyә/, n, (Definition) a Spanish couple dance similar to a fandango. (Sentence) Juan and Carmela danced the malaguena with extroardinary grace and emotional excitement.

manicotti

/,manə̇'käd.ē/, n pl, (Definition) tubular pasta shells stuffed with ricotta. (Sentence) The caterer filled the chafing dish with manicotti.

maraschino

/,marә'skē,nō/, n, (Definition) a sweet liqueur that is used as a cocktail ingredient and in preserving cherries. (Sentence) Even though she's a grown woman, Evelyn sometimes likes to make herself a Shirley Temple with clear soda and maraschino.

naology

/nā'älәjē/, n, (Definition) a study of sacred edifices. (Sentence) With her background in architecture and naology, Shauna is just the right person to help restore the old cathedral.

masquerade

/,maskә'rād/, n, (Definition) a social gathering of persons wearing covers on their faces and often fantastic costumes especially to impersonate characters from history or legend. (Sentence) Todd and Sheila wore Conehead costumes to the masquerade.

matinee

/,matən'ā/, n, (Definition) a performance of a production (as a play, opera, film) or the presentation of a concert or sometimes the holding of some other event in the afternoon or occasionally in the morning or at midnight. (Sentence) The English class attended a matinee of Our Town at the local playhouse.

majordomo

/,mājә(r)'dō(,)m ō/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: mayordomo] a head steward or palace official. (Sentence) Jeeves has been majordomo of Huntington Castle for the last 30 years.

noctivagant

/näk'və̇gәnt/, adj, (Definition) going about in the night : night-wandering. (Sentence) The bat, being a noctivagant mammal, has inspired many legends.

neoterism

/nē'äd.ә,rizәm/, n, (Definition) a newly invented word or phrase. (Sentence) Cineplex is a neoterism recently added to the dictionary.

neologism

/nē'älә,jizәm/, n, (Definition) a new word, usage, or expression. (Sentence) Nelson encountered a neologism in almost every paragraph of the computer article.

niveau

/nē'vō/, n, (Definition) [Note: Plural form is pronounced similarly.] a level (as of existence or achievement) especially in a progression. (Sentence) Ben's tennis class is at the intermediate niveau.

naupathia

/nŏ'pathēә/, n, (Definition) seasickness. (Sentence) Several spells of naupathia made Joni's cruise an experience she hopes never to repeat.

Norwegian

/nŏ(r)'wējәn/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or characteristic of Norway. (Sentence) Paul bought a pound of Norwegian smoked salmon.

Montessorian

/,mäntә'sōrēәn/, adj, (Definition) of, following, or relating to a system for training young children emphasizing free physical activity, informal and individual instruction, early development of writing and reading, and extended sensory motor training. (Sentence) The Montessorian learning environment contains materials for all levels of children's readiness.

nystagmus

/nə̇'stagmәs/, n, (Definition) a rapid involuntary oscillation of the eyeballs occurring normally with dizziness during and after bodily rotation or abnormally after injuries. (Sentence) Bart suffered from nystagmus for several days following the boxing match.

martinetish

/,märtən'ed.ish/, adj, (Definition) like or characteristic of a person who lays stress on a rigid adherence to the details of forms and methods. (Sentence) Though all the students disliked Mr. Wall's martinetish attitude, most of them thought he was an excellent teacher.

mozzarella

/,mätsә'relә/, n, (Definition) a moist white rubbery unsalted cheese. (Sentence) Mozzarella is used in many Italian foods.

metanoia

/,med.ә'nŏi(y)ә/, n, (Definition) a fundamental transformation of mind or character; specifically : a spiritual conversion. (Sentence) After years of dissolute living, Augustine experienced a metanoia and became a leading ecclesiastical figure.

memorabilia

/,memәrә'bilēә/, n pl, (Definition) things remarkable and worthy of remembrance or record. (Sentence) The memorabilia in the hall of fame traced the history of basketball from its beginning in 1891.

meningitis

/,menə̇n'jīd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) a disease in which microorganisms cause inflammation of the membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord. (Sentence) Trudy had meningitis when she was seven.

minestrone

/,minә'strōnē/, n, (Definition) a rich thick vegetable soup with dried beans, macaroni, vermicelli, or similar ingredients sometimes topped with grated cheese. (Sentence) Steve crumbled oyster crackers into his minestrone.

misdemeanor

/,misdə̇'mēnә(r) /, n, (Definition) a crime less than a felony. (Sentence) The trespasser was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor.

mistassini

/,mistә'sēnē/, n, (Definition) a dwarf primrose of northern and alpine America. (Sentence) Ava saw a mistassini growing in a rock crevice.

miscellanea

/,misә'lānēә/, n pl, (Definition) a collection of assorted objects. (Sentence) Among the miscellanea on Ernie's bookshelf were five textbooks on world history and a complete set of the works of Shakespeare.

misoneism

/,misә'nē,izәm/, n, (Definition) a hatred or intolerance of something new or changed. (Sentence) Because of his mom's misoneism, Brian still does not have a computer in his home.

mythopoeic

/,mithә'pēik/, adj, (Definition) creating or tending to create myth or myths. (Sentence) Mythopoeic humans attempted to explain natural phenomena, such as the rising and setting of the sun.

myelitis

/,mīә'līd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) inflammation of the spinal cord or of the bone marrow. (Sentence) Myelitis is usually a result of a viral infection such as mononucleosis or mumps.

multiplication

/,mәltәplə̇'kāshә n/, n, (Definition) a mathematical operation commonly indicated by ab that repeats b as many times as there are units in a. (Sentence) The fourth grade class was learning the process of multiplication of whole numbers.

myrmecology

/,mәrmә'kälәjē/, n, (Definition) a scientific study of ants. (Sentence) Receiving an ant farm for Christmas was the beginning of Art's interest in myrmecology.

nativistic

/,nād.ə̇'vistik/, adj, (Definition) of, being, or having the characteristics of a movement advocating the perpetuation of native cultural traits and a removal of foreign culture elements. (Sentence) The group's nativistic efforts included the renunciation of the use of electricity and fossil fuels.

nominee

/,nämә'nē/, n, (Definition) a person named or proposed for an office, duty, or position. (Sentence) The president's nominee for the Supreme Court had to be approved by a Senate committee.

nonchalance

/,nänshә'län(t)s/, n, (Definition) a display or air of jaunty unconcern or indifference. (Sentence) Sarah reacted with nonchalance when her neighbors complained about her unruly dog.

neophiliac

/,nēō'filē,ak/, n, (Definition) one who has a love of or enthusiasm for what is new or novel. (Sentence) A true neophiliac, Vince visits trade shows at every opportunity.

neolalia

/,nēō'lālēә/, n, (Definition) speech especially of a psychotic that includes words that are new and meaningless to the hearer. (Sentence) The doctor recorded the patient's neolalia for further study.

neonatology

/,nēōnā'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of medicine concerned with the care, development, and diseases of newborn infants. (Sentence) Jackie hopes to specialize in either pediatrics or neonatology.

neoteric

/,nēә'terik/, adj, (Definition) recent in origin : modern. (Sentence) Richard was a fan of neoteric interior design.

nyctalopia

/,niktә'lōpēә/, n, (Definition) a defect of vision characterized by reduced visual capacity in faint light or at night. (Sentence) Nyctalopia may be corrected by vitamin therapy.

nimbostratus

/,nim(,)bō'strād. әs/, n, (Definition) a low dark gray rainy cloud layer. (Sentence) The day was dreary with the nimbostratus blocking the rays of the Sun completely.

gnotobiotic

/,nōd.ә(,)bī'äd.ik /, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, living in, or being a controlled environment containing one or a few kinds of organisms. (Sentence) A good example of a planned gnotobiotic environment is the international space station.

novillero

/,nōvē'ye(ә)(,)rō /, n, (Definition) a bullfighter aspiring to become a matador. (Sentence) All summer the novillero practiced in the pasture with young bulls.

overhead

/,ovә(r)'hed/, adv, (Definition) above one's head. (Sentence) The stewardess warned us that the contents of the compartments might shift overhead during the flight.

otolaryngology

/,ōd.ә,larə̇n'gälәj ē/, n, (Definition) a branch of medicine that deals with the ear, nose, and throat and their disorders and diseases. (Sentence) When Hazel's sore throat persisted, her family physician recommended an appointment with a specialist in otolaryngology.

overwhelmed

/,ōvә(r)'(h)welm d/, v, (Definition) subjected to the grip of an overpowering emotion. (Sentence) Trudy was overwhelmed when she found out that she had the winning lottery ticket.

orbicularity

/,ŏ(r),bikyә'larәd .ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of resembling or having the form of an orb or globe. (Sentence) The geologist noted the stone's highly unusual orbicularity.

ornithotomy

/,ŏ(r)nә'thäd.әm ē/, n, (Definition) the anatomy or dissection of birds. (Sentence) Through ornithotomy Derrick learned how a bird's bones are interconnected.

orchidaceous

/,ŏrkə̇'dāshәs/, adj, (Definition) expressing or characterized by a showy or ostentatious quality. (Sentence) Today's journalists generally eschew orchidaceous writing.

origami

/,ŏrә'gämē/, n, (Definition) the art or process of Japanese paper folding. (Sentence) After only a few hours of studying origami, Veronica was creating paper cranes by the dozen.

palingenesis

/,palə̇n'jenәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) renewal by or as if by rebirth, as the doctrine of reincarnation. (Sentence) The discussion of palingenesis started with the illustration of an oak tree producing acorns, which, in turn, produce oak trees.

parabulia

/,parә'byülēә/, n, (Definition) abnormality or perversion of willpower. (Sentence) One critic called Nietzschean philosophy "a celebration of parabulia."

polystyrene

/,pälē'stī,rēn/, n, (Definition) a rigid transparent thermoplastic that has good physical and electrical insulating properties and is used chiefly in making containers and other molded products and sheet materials. (Sentence) Some restaurants have stopped using polystyrene cups because they are not biodegradable.

pessimistic

/,pesә'mistik/, adj, (Definition) marked by disbelief, distrust, or a lack of confidence, hope, or joy. (Sentence) The senator was pessimistic about the passage of any tax-cutting bills this year.

picaresque

/,pikә'resk/, adj, (Definition) relating to or being a type of prose fiction in which the principal character is a rogue or vagabond and the narrative is a series of incidents or episodes. (Sentence) In a typical picaresque novel, the hero has many adventures.

pleuropneumo nia

/,plůrōn(y)ü'mō nyә/, n, (Definition) inflammation of the lungs and their membranous sacs. (Sentence) Parasitic microorganisms can cause pleuropneumonia in sheep and goats.

promenade

/,prämә'nād/, n, (Definition) a leisurely walk or ride especially in a public place for pleasure, display, or exercise. (Sentence) After the meeting Gilda and Jaime took a promenade down Main Street.

preterlabent

/,prēd.ә(r)'lābәn t/, adj, (Definition) flowing beside or by. (Sentence) Mr. Ross pumped water from a preterlabent stream to irrigate his vegetable garden.

prepossessing

/,prēpә'zesiŋ/, adj, (Definition) tending to please or arouse confidence : creating a favorable impression. (Sentence) With her impeccable carriage and her prematurely white hair, Lydia was a prepossessing figure at the political convention.

preemergent

/,prēə̇'mәrjәnt/, adj, (Definition) used or occurring before seedlings come forth or rise into view aboveground. (Sentence) Dramatic success in weed control has been achieved with preemergent herbicides.

primogeniture

/,prīmō'jenә,chů (ә)r/, n, (Definition) the state of being the firstborn of the children of the same parents. (Sentence) In British law, male primogeniture is used to determine inheritance of real estate and titles.

primatologist

/,prīmә'tälәjə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the study of members of the order Primates especially other than recent humans. (Sentence) Jane Goodall's many years of studying chimpanzees has made her the world's most famous primatologist.

prolegomenon

/,prōlә'gämә,nä n/, n, (Definition) a reading or group of readings or intellectual exercises leading to further understanding, development, or advance in knowledge or technique in a subject matter field. (Sentence) Dr. Taylor's course in art history constituted a carefully planned prolegomenon for students who would be choosing art as their major.

peradventure

/,pәrәd'venchә(r )/, n, (Definition) an opinion based on guesswork : surmise. (Sentence) Thinking that Phil's favorite color is red just because he purchased a red car is a peradventure.

ramification

/,ramәfə̇'kāshәn /, n, (Definition) a resulting development : consequence. (Sentence) Tina felt that the only negative ramification of accepting the job offer was that she would have to take a pay cut.

ravioli

/,ravē'ōlē/, n, (Definition) alimentary paste made in little shells or cases and stuffed (as with cheese, spinach, or meat). (Sentence) Fletcher bought a package of frozen spinach ravioli and a jar of tomato sauce.

recumbentibus

/,rekәm'bentə̇bә s/, n, (Definition) a knockdown blow. (Sentence) The little old lady gave the purse snatcher a recumbentibus that stunned witnesses and made her a folk hero.

reputation

/,repyә'tāshәn/, n, (Definition) a particular character in popular estimation or ascription. (Sentence) The old dilapidated house had a reputation for being haunted.

repechage

/,repә'shäzh/, n, (Definition) a second-chance trial heat (as in Olympic rowing) in which losers in the first round of competition are given another chance to qualify for the semifinals. (Sentence) Luigi fell behind in the first heat of the single sculls, but he hoped to make up for it in the repechage.

recrudescent

/,rēkrü'desənt/, adj, (Definition) breaking out again : renewing disease or dangerous activity after abatement, suppression, or cessation. (Sentence) Because of the recrudescent nature of tuberculosis, those who have been exposed to this disease should be tested for it periodically.

rhinophonia

/,rīnә'fōnēә/, n, (Definition) marked nasal resonance. (Sentence) The principal's voice is so characterized by rhinophonia that he is called "Mr. Quack" behind his back.

rubefacient

/,rübә'fāshәnt/, n, (Definition) a substance for external application that causes redness of the skin. (Sentence) Isopropyl alcohol is a well-known rubefacient found in many people's medicine cabinets.

rudimentary

/,rüdә'mentәrē/, adj, (Definition) basic, fundamental. (Sentence) Thurston possessed only a rudimentary knowledge of opera.

saponaceous

/,sapә'nāshәs/, adj, (Definition) soapy. (Sentence) Talc and soapstone have a saponaceous feel.

saskatoon

/,saskә'tün/, n, (Definition) a juneberry of the northern and western United States and adjacent Canada. (Sentence) The purple fruit of the saskatoon is eaten eagerly by birds.

semipermeable

/,semē'pәrmēәb әl/, adj, (Definition) of or constituting a membrane that is penetrable by some usually small molecules (as of water or inorganic salts) but bars the passage of other usually larger particles (as protein molecules). (Sentence) Usually the size of a molecule determines whether it will pass through a semipermeable membrane, but other factors are not well understood.

septuagenarian

/,sep,t(y)üәjә'ne rēәn/, n, (Definition) a person who is 70 or more but fewer than 80 years old. (Sentence) Aunt Daisy is proud of the fact that she has lived to be a septuagenarian.

sesquipedalian

/,seskwə̇pə̇'dāly әn/, adj, (Definition) given to or characterized by the use of long words. (Sentence) Norbert dozed off halfway through the principal's sesquipedalian speech.

sesquicentenni al

/,seskwə̇sen'ten ēәl/, n, (Definition) a 150th anniversary. (Sentence) The state issued special license plates to commemorate its sesquicentennial.

chateaubriand

/,sha,tōbrē'än/, n, (Definition) a thick tenderloin steak. (Sentence) The server commented that both the prime rib and the chateaubriand were excellent menu choices.

chandelier

/,shandә'li(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a lighting fixture suspended from the ceiling and having two or more lights. (Sentence) Dad finally got around to installing a dimmer switch for our chandelier.

sybaritically

/,sibә'rid.ə̇k(ә)lē /, adv, (Definition) in a luxurious or voluptuous manner. (Sentence) Dana reclined sybaritically on the velvet sofa.

silhouette

/,silә'wet/, n, (Definition) a representation of the outlines of an object filled in with black or some other uniform color. (Sentence) Mrs. Baldwin has a framed silhouette of each of her children on the wall of her foyer.

simulacrum

/,simyә'lākrәm/, n, (Definition) a representation of something : image, effigy. (Sentence) A simulacrum of Elvis stood at the entrance to the wax museum.

sinuosity

/,sinyә'wäsәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of bending in and out. (Sentence) The sinuosity of the mountain road taxed Ken's driving skills.

cinematograph er

/,sinәmә'tägrәfә (r)/, n, (Definition) a motion-picture camera operator. (Sentence) Darina won the award for outstanding cinematographer at last year's Montreal Film Festival.

systematic

/,sistə̇'mad.ik/, adj, (Definition) marked by or manifesting method or orderly procedure. (Sentence) Maria's systematic approach to drawing stunts her creativity.

sinusitis

/,sīnә'sīd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) inflammation of any of the several cavities in the skull. (Sentence) The allergist explained that Alice's headaches and sneezing are due to sinusitis.

cyanosis

/,sīә'nōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a bluish or purplish discoloration (as of skin) due to deficient oxygenation of the blood. (Sentence) Cyanosis may result from pneumonia, asphyxiation, heart failure, or heart anomalies.

squandermania

/,skwändә(r)'mā nēә/, n, (Definition) the practice of spending money extravagantly especially by a government. (Sentence) The mayoral candidate promised to halt the city's squandermania if elected.

speleology

/,spēlē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) the scientific study or systematic exploration of caves. (Sentence) Dale's research in speleology takes him to spectacular natural features around the world.

spiculiferous

/,spikyә'lif(ә)rәs/, adj, (Definition) bearing small fleshy points or appendages. (Sentence) The shape of the sponge is maintained by its spiculiferous skeleton.

stanzaical

/,stan'zāikәl/, adj, (Definition) relating to or consisting of groups of lines arranged together in a recurring pattern of metrical lengths and usually a sequence of rhymes. (Sentence) Kerri prefers poetry with a more stanzaical form.

sukiyaki

/,sükē'(y)äkē/, n, (Definition) meat, soybean curd, onions, bamboo shoots, and other vegetables cooked in soy sauce, sake, and sugar. (Sentence) Joyce watched with fascination as the Japanese cook prepared sukiyaki right at the table.

supererogation

/,süpә,rerә'gāsh әn/, n, (Definition) the act or process or an instance of performing more than necessary to complete an undertaking. (Sentence) The teacher asked for a three-page essay on insects, but in a burst of supererogation, Duane wrote six pages.

superimposable

/,süpәrə̇m'pōzәb әl/, adj, (Definition) capable of covering or of being covered. (Sentence) If a superimposable ion or molecule is placed over the other, the positions of all the atoms will match.

toxicology

/,täksә'kälәjē/, n, (Definition) a science that deals with poisons and their effect on living organisms and with the clinical, industrial, legal, or other problems involved. (Sentence) Dr. Krause quickly consulted his textbook on toxicology to find the antidote.

toxicosis

/,täksә'kōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a pathological condition caused by the action of a poison or toxin. (Sentence) The chihuahua exhibited no symptoms of toxicosis after eating the soap.

tempura

/,tempә'rä/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: tempera] fritters of seafood and vegetables fried in deep fat. (Sentence) The waiter brought a small dish of vegetable tempura as an appetizer.

therapeutant

/,therә'pyütənt/, n, (Definition) a healing or curative agent or medicine. (Sentence) The diseased elm trees were sprayed with a chemical therapeutant.

theophobia

/,thē(,)ō'fōbēә/, n, (Definition) dread of the wrath of God. (Sentence) In his theophobia, Brennan was sure that the thunderstorm was directed specifically at him.

theoretician

/,thēәrә'tishәn/, n, (Definition) one who formulates theories (as to account for perceived phenomena). (Sentence) Dr. Freud's work as a theoretician in psychoanalysis earned him an international reputation.

thyroiditis

/,thī,rŏi'dīd.ə̇s/, n, (Definition) inflammation of the endocrine gland which produces a hormone affecting growth, development, and metabolic rate. (Sentence) Dr. Dowd explained that Gary's thyroiditis was caused by his having the mumps.

visibility

/,vizә'bilәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the degree or extent to which something is capable of being seen. (Sentence) The captain announced that visibility was approximately five miles.

volador

/,vōlә'dŏ(ә)r/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: voladora] any of various flying fishes. (Sentence) Sammy was proud to have caught a volador on his first day of fishing.

zapateado

/,zäpәtē'ä(,)dō/, n, (Definition) a rhythmic stamping or tapping step characteristic of Spanish dancing. (Sentence) Juliana needs practice in zapateado before she can take advanced flamenco classes.

ulterior

/,әl'tirēә(r)/, adj, (Definition) not apparent : hidden. (Sentence) When Sherman volunteered to walk the dog, his ulterior motive was to escape the boring conversation in the house.

ultimatum

/,әltә'mād.әm/, n, (Definition) a final proposition, condition, or demand; especially : one whose rejection will end negotiations and cause a resort to force or other direct action. (Sentence) If the striking workers refused its ultimatum, the company threatened to close the factory permanently.

ultimogeniture

/,әltәmō'jenә,ch ů(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a system of inheritance by which the youngest son or sometimes daughter or collateral heir succeeds to the estate. (Sentence) Mr. Case, deciding that his father's adherence to ultimogeniture was unfair, planned to divide the family farm equally among his siblings and himself.

underneath

/,әndә(r)'nēth/, prep, (Definition) close under especially so as to be covered or hidden by. (Sentence) Val found beetles, worms, and a cricket underneath the flagstone.

unforeseeable

/,әnfōr'sHәbәl/, adj, (Definition) incapable of being foreseen, foretold, or anticipated. (Sentence) The problem was made worse by a number of unforeseeable complications.

urbanity

/,әr'banәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of evincing the polish and suavity characteristic of social life in larger cities. (Sentence) Melissa's easy urbanity belied her discomfort at the pie-eating contest.

ambrosia

/am'brōzh(ē)ә/, n, (Definition) a dessert of a fruit or of mixed fruits topped with shredded coconut. (Sentence) Cyrus's favorite dessert is his grandmother's ambrosia.

achondrite

/ā'kän,drīt/, n, (Definition) a stony meteorite devoid of the granular structures known as chondrules. (Sentence) The claim that the achondrite originated from the moon was based on compositional matches of lunar rocks obtained by the Apollo missions.

ailanthus

/ā'lan(t)thәs/, n, (Definition) a tree of a small genus of East Indian and Chinese trees with greenish flowers. (Sentence) The ailanthus is fast growing and its shallow, wide- spreading root system effectively anchors the soil.

ensemble

/än'sämbәl/, n, (Definition) a group of supporting players, singers, or dancers. (Sentence) The principals in the play were ably supported by the ensemble.

arcanum

/är'kānәm/, n, (Definition) a secret or mysterious knowledge or information known only to the initiate. (Sentence) Ralph developed a secret handshake as an arcanum for his club.

artillery

/är'til(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) the missiles discharged by the weapons of war. (Sentence) The May Day parade in Red Square was widely known for its display of artillery.

balletic

/ba'led.ik/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: balladic] relating to or resembling ballet. (Sentence) The Russian ice dancers performed a balletic program to win the Olympic gold medal.

balbriggan

/bal'brigәn/, n, (Definition) a plain-stitch knitted often tubular usually cotton fabric used especially for underwear, hosiery, or sweaters. (Sentence) Moira's imported Irish sweater was made of balbriggan.

baignoire

/bān'wär/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with peignoir.] a theater box having low partitions that is in the lowest tier. (Sentence) Seats in the baignoire afforded an unobscured view of the stage.

bimillenary

/bī'milә,nerē/, n, (Definition) a 2000th anniversary or its celebration. (Sentence) In 1951 the city of Paris celebrated the bimillenary of its founding.

Byronic

/bī'ränik/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or having the characteristics of the poet Byron or his writings, usually involving hatred of mankind or distrust of human nature. (Sentence) His attitude and his smile were Byronic, at once world- weary and contemptuous.

blanquette

/blänket/, n, (Definition) a light meat (as veal or breast of chicken) in a white sauce. (Sentence) After the play, Grandmother took us to a French restaurant, where we sampled a blanquette of veal from the buffet.

bocaccio

/bō'kä,chō/, n, (Definition) a large olive to brown red-flushed rockfish of the Pacific coast from British Columbia to southern California. (Sentence) The bocaccio feeds on a variety of fishes, crabs, and squids.

brioche

/brē'ōsh/, n, (Definition) a fancy roll of very light yeast dough rich with eggs and butter. (Sentence) Amy wanted just a brioche and juice for breakfast.

benignant

/bə̇'nignәnt/, adj, (Definition) kindly, mild, gentle. (Sentence) The department store always chose a Santa Claus with a benignant countenance.

bisagre

/bə̇'sa(,)grē/, n, (Definition) a small spiny cactus of Mexico and the southwestern United States that is sometimes cut into slices and candied. (Sentence) Elena often rewarded her children's good behavior with slices of bisagre.

besotted

/bə̇'sätə̇d/, adj, (Definition) characterized by a condition of blind doting affection. (Sentence) The Air Force pilot was besotted with the movie star.

bolero

/bә'la(a)(,)rō/, n, (Definition) a Spanish dance to music in three-quarter time and characterized by sharp turns and revolutions of the body and stamping of the feet in syncopated rhythm. (Sentence) Miguel and Ana danced the bolero as the rest of the partygoers watched and clapped.

beret

/bә'rā/, n, (Definition) a soft flat visorless cap of woolen material originally worn by Basque peasants. (Sentence) The painter's beret was a bit tattered and moth-eaten.

baronial

/bә'rōnēәl/, adj, (Definition) splendid, stately, spacious, ample. (Sentence) The baronial fireplace had enough room to hold six- foot logs.

bacillus

/bә'silәs/, n, (Definition) a disease-producing bacterium. (Sentence) Kendra will use a powerful disinfectant to kill any bacillus that might be lurking on the counter top.

battalion

/bә'talyәn/, n, (Definition) a considerable body of troops organized to act together : army. (Sentence) The commander advanced the battalion confidently when he saw the pitifully few defenders remaining at the castle walls.

bathymeter

/bә'thimәd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a device for the sounding of depths. (Sentence) Proper use of the bathymeter was crucial as Captain Byron navigated through the shallows in the fog.

chiclero

/chi'kler(,)ō/, n, (Definition) a gatherer of latex from the sapodilla tree. (Sentence) Toby interviewed a chiclero for the journal.

cioppino

/chә'pē,nō/, n, (Definition) a dish of fish and shellfish cooked in tomato sauce and usually seasoned with wine, spices, and herbs. (Sentence) After an afternoon at the beach, Beverly stopped at a local restaurant for cioppino and coffee.

credulity

/crə̇'d(y)ülәd.ē/, n, (Definition) belief or readiness of belief especially on slight or uncertain evidence. (Sentence) Marco's personality was a strange mixture of shrewdness and credulity.

duvet

/d(y)ü'vā/, n, (Definition) a warm bedcover : quilt, comforter. (Sentence) Sally stored her duvet in the linen closet and used a light bedspread during the summer months.

doughtily

/daůd.ə̇lē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner marked by fearless resolution and by stoutness in contest or struggle. (Sentence) The district attorney doughtily persevered in his efforts to bring the crime bosses to justice.

doxology

/däk'sälәjē/, n, (Definition) a commonly short hymn or formula expressing praise to God. (Sentence) One common doxology in Protestant churches is set to a tune called "Old Hundred."

danseur

/dän'sәr/, n, (Definition) a male ballet dancer. (Sentence) The director chose a tall, graceful danseur for the part of Siegfried in Swan Lake.

dansant

/dänsän/, n, (Definition) an informal or small dance. (Sentence) Sally's friends held a dansant in her honor before her departure for China.

decorticate

/dē'kŏ(r)d.ә,kāt/, v, (Definition) remove the bark, husk, or other outer covering from. (Sentence) Sharp front teeth allow squirrels to decorticate hickory nuts.

dittology

/di'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) a double reading or twofold interpretation (as of a biblical text). (Sentence) Millicent's first lecture of the semester was a dittology of the story of Genesis entitled "Serpent or Savior?"

disarmament

/dis'ärmәmәnt/, n, (Definition) the laying aside or depriving of weapons; especially : the reduction of a military establishment to some minimum set by some specified authority. (Sentence) The disarmament of the defeated aggressor nation must be complete.

disheartened

/dis'härtənd/, v, (Definition) deprived of courage and hope : discouraged, dejected. (Sentence) After a long drought the disheartened farmer reluctantly decided to sell his land.

drisheen

/drə̇'shēn/, n, (Definition) a sausage prepared with sheep's blood, milk, and seasonings. (Sentence) While in County Cork, Mr. O'Donnell ordered drisheen and eggs for breakfast.

debouchment

/də̇'büshmәnt/, n, (Definition) a mouth or outlet especially of a river. (Sentence) The river's debouchment had to be dredged because the sediment was a hazard to navigation.

decathlon

/də̇'kath,län/, n, (Definition) a ten-event athletic contest. (Sentence) The motivational speaker Bruce Jenner is famous for having won a gold medal in the 1976 Olympic Games decathlon.

decoction

/də̇'käkshәn/, n, (Definition) a liquid preparation made of a medicinal plant boiled in water. (Sentence) In ancient times, a decoction of medicinal herbs was often the only treatment available for internal injuries.

declamatory

/də̇'klamә,tōrē/, adj, (Definition) marked by rhetorical effect or display : stilted. (Sentence) Minna's declamatory sermon alienated many of her listeners.

decrepitude

/də̇'krepә,t(y)üd /, n, (Definition) a state of decay, ruin, or dilapidation. (Sentence) Far from falling into decrepitude, the town was on a spree of building construction.

delectable

/də̇'lektәbәl/, adj, (Definition) deliciously flavored. (Sentence) JoAnne selected Black Forest cake from the delectable dessert offerings.

democracy

/də̇'mäkrәsē/, n, (Definition) a government by the people : rule of the majority. (Sentence) Cara could not imagine what her life would be like if it were governed not by a democracy but instead by the whims of a few people.

derailleur

/də̇'rālә(r)/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: derailer] a mechanism for shifting gears on a bicycle that operates by moving the chain from one set of exposed gears to another. (Sentence) Laurent's derailleur jammed a few minutes into the race, and he was forced to the side of the road.

decedent

/də̇'sēdənt/, n, (Definition) a dead person; especially : a person who has recently died. (Sentence) The relatives of the decedent gathered for the reading of the will.

dysphoria

/də̇'sfōrēә/, n, (Definition) a generalized state of feeling unwell or unhappy. (Sentence) Edith has had frequent crying spells and periods of dysphoria since early childhood.

deciduous

/də̇'sijәwәs/, adj, (Definition) falling off or shed at the end of the growing period, at certain seasons, or at certain stages of development. (Sentence) Deciduous trees drop their leaves each fall.

dyslexia

/də̇'sleksēә/, n, (Definition) a disturbance of the ability to read. (Sentence) In Maria's school, students with dyslexia are given special training to improve their reading, spelling, and writing.

denominations

/də̇,nämә'nāshә nz/, n pl, (Definition) religious groups or communities of believers called by the same name. (Sentence) Children of other denominations were excused from attending mass at the Roman Catholic school.

dysrhythmia

/də̇s'rithmēә/, n, (Definition) a condition characterized by various psychological and physiological effects and which occurs following long flight through several time zones and probably results from disruption of human body rhythms that occur in 24-hour cycles : jet lag. (Sentence) The travel agent gave the tour group several tips on how to avoid dysrhythmia.

devouring

/dә'vaů(ә)riŋ/, v, (Definition) eating up with greediness : consuming ravenously. (Sentence) The squirrels are devouring the seeds meant for the birds.

ecologist

/ē'kälәjə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the branch of science concerned with the interrelationship of organisms and their environment. (Sentence) Kimberly will work as a summer intern for an ecologist in the Everglades.

economist

/ē'känәmə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in or student of the social science that studies the production, distribution, and consumption of commodities. (Sentence) Adam Smith was the most influential economist of the 18th century.

ecocatastrophe

/ē(,)kōkә'tastrә(, )fē/, n, (Definition) a major destructive upset in the balance of nature especially when caused by the intervention of humans. (Sentence) Sam considers the destruction of the rain forests an ecocatastrophe.

naprapathy

/nә'prapәthē/, n, (Definition) a therapeutic system of drugless treatment by manipulation of the ligaments and connective tissues. (Sentence) Norma relied on naprapathy to relieve her pain after she sprained her back.

opusculum

/ō'pәskyәlәm/, n, (Definition) a minor work (as of literature). (Sentence) Although critics regarded Jerome's first novel as an opusculum, it has steadily risen on the best-seller lists.

fastidiously

/fa'stidēәslē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner that reflects a meticulous, sensitive, or demanding attitude. (Sentence) Vera's insistence on dressing fastidiously for every occasion precluded her going anywhere on short notice.

factotum

/fak'tōd.әm/, n, (Definition) a person having many diverse activities or responsibilities : a general servant. (Sentence) Mrs. Alexander has so many responsibilities not related to instruction that she feels more like a factotum than a teacher.

orenda

/ō'rendә/, n, (Definition) extraordinary invisible power. (Sentence) The medicine man relied on his orenda to control others.

oviparous

/ō'vipәrәs/, adj, (Definition) producing eggs that develop and hatch outside the maternal body. (Sentence) The platypus is an oviparous mammal.

audacious

/ŏ'dāshәs/, adj, (Definition) recklesslessly venturesome : presumptuously bold. (Sentence) Tom's audacious disregard for physical limitations will catch up with him sooner or later.

fandango

/fan'daŋ(,)gō/, n, (Definition) a lively Spanish dance usually performed by a man and woman with castanets and in triple time. (Sentence) Craig and Ursula danced a fandango in the high school talent competition.

fermata

/fer'mäd.ә/, n, (Definition) a prolongation at the discretion of the performer of a musical note, chord, or rest beyond its given time value. (Sentence) To the conductor's consternation, Dean exaggerated each fermata.

flautino

/flaů'tē(,)nō/, n, (Definition) a small flute : piccolo. (Sentence) Harriet plays many wind instruments, but she especially enjoys playing flautino in a baroque music group.

flotilla

/flō'tilә/, n, (Definition) a small fleet or a fleet of small watercraft. (Sentence) The Boy Scouts launched a flotilla of toy sailboats across the lake.

fluorescent

/flů(ә)'resənt/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: florescent] emitting electromagnetic radiation especially in the form of visible light. (Sentence) The fluorescent bulb above Gary's cubicle thrummed noisily.

fresnel

/frā'nel/, n, (Definition) a unit of frequency equal to 1 trillion cycles per second. (Sentence) A rarely used multiple of the hertz is the fresnel, which was named for the French scientist Augustin Jean Fresnel.

frondeur

/frōndQQr/, n, (Definition) rebel, malcontent, dissident. (Sentence) The mayor's denouncement referred to Jules as a "frondeur."

autogenous

/ŏ'täjәnәs/, adj, (Definition) of origin within or from oneself. (Sentence) Mrs. Griffin received an autogenous transplant in which some of her own bone marrow was extracted, cleansed of leukemia cells, and then reinjected.

glottology

/glä'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) the study of human speech in its various aspects (as the structure of a language including such factors as phonetics, accent, syntax, semantics, grammar, and the relation between writing and speech). (Sentence) Glottology is more frequently referred to as "linguistics."

gloxinia

/gläk'sinēә/, n, (Definition) a greenhouse herb having large flowers with a turbinate calyx and irregular bell-shaped corolla; especially : a Brazilian herb that is the source of many horticultural varieties. (Sentence) Charlena's gloxinia bears bright pink, trumpetlike flowers in early summer.

glaucoma

/glŏ'kōmә/, n, (Definition) a disease of the eye marked by increased pressure within the eyeball that damages the optic disk and results in gradual loss of vision and ultimate blindness. (Sentence) Ophthalmologists routinely test for glaucoma as part of their eye examinations.

glissando

/glə̇'sän(,)dō/, n, (Definition) a rapid series of consecutive notes played on a piano, harp, or other similar instrument by sliding one or more fingers across adjacent keys or strings. (Sentence) Joachim diligently practiced the glissando at the end of the first movement.

grotesqueness

/grō'tesknə̇s/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being comically incongruous or ridiculously ugly. (Sentence) Each horror movie seems to be trying to outdo the others in grotesqueness.

grimoire

/grə̇m'wär/, n, (Definition) a magician's manual for invoking demons and the spirits of the dead. (Sentence) The witch looked in her grimoire to find a spell to change the child into a rat.

hexagonal

/hek'sagәnəl/, adj, (Definition) having six angles and six sides : six-sided. (Sentence) A cell of a honeycomb is one of many hexagonal forms in nature.

helminthoid

/hel'min,thŏid/, adj, (Definition) resembling a parasitic worm (as a roundworm, tapeworm, or leech). (Sentence) The calves' emaciation and stunted growth were found to be a result of infestation by helminthoid organisms.

hydrolysis

/hī'drälәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a chemical process of decomposition involving the splitting of a bond and the addition of the hydrogen cation and the hydroxide anion of water. (Sentence) Digestive enzymes promote the hydrolysis of nutrients into simpler compounds.

hydraulic

/hī'drŏlik/, adj, (Definition) operated, moved, or effected by means of water. (Sentence) The stream and the waterwheel were sure signs that the grain mill was operated by hydraulic power.

hypostasis

/hī'pästәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) something that settles at the bottom of a fluid : sediment. (Sentence) A harmless-looking hypostasis in a soft drink bottle led to a series of expensive lawsuits.

hauteur

/hŏ'tәr/, n, (Definition) [has near homonyms: auteur and hotter] an assumption of superiority : arrogant or condescending manner. (Sentence) The young couple was put off by the waiter's hauteur.

whodunit

/hü'dәnə̇t/, n, (Definition) a detective story or a mystery story presented as a novel, a play, or a motion picture. (Sentence) The whodunit proved to be the most popular play at the summer theater.

hubristic

/hyü'bristik/, adj, (Definition) insolent, vain, arrogant. (Sentence) Without question, Rick was the most hubristic intern Dr. Hallberg had ever encountered.

humectant

/hyü'mektәnt/, n, (Definition) a substance that promotes retention of moisture. (Sentence) Toothpastes contain a humectant to carry the abrasive and other agents.

humidity

/hyü'midәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a moderate degree of wetness especially of the atmosphere. (Sentence) In addition to the heat and humidity, the hikers had to deal with pesky mosquitoes.

jarana

/hә'ränә/, n, (Definition) a couple dance of Yucatan that is performed with waltz and zapateado steps. (Sentence) In Cancun one still sees couples dancing the jarana.

heresimach

/hә'rēzә,mak/, n, (Definition) an active opponent of heresy and heretics. (Sentence) During the Inquisition, Torquemada was Spain's most zealous heresimach.

irrevocability

/i,revәkә'bilәd.ē /, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being unalterable. (Sentence) The chairman insisted upon the irrevocability of the rules of order.

exaggerate

/ig'zajә,rāt/, v, (Definition) misrepresent on the side of largeness (as of size, extent, or value) : overstate the truth. (Sentence) Like any fisherman, Tio tends to exaggerate the size of his catches.

exultantly

/ig'zәltəntlē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner filled with extreme joy. (Sentence) She laughed exultantly when her practical joke worked and her brother was covered in paint.

exacerbation

/ig,zasә(r)'bāshә n/, n, (Definition) the act of making more violent, bitter, or severe. (Sentence) Vigorous exercise can lead to acute exacerbation of asthmatic symptoms.

accessible

/ik'sesәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being reached or easily approached. (Sentence) Wilbur made sure his restaurant was accessible to those in wheelchairs.

immature

/im,mә'tů(ә)r/, adj, (Definition) lacking complete growth or development. (Sentence) The immature insect resembles the adult in form and eating habits but differs in size, body proportions, and color pattern.

improvisational

/im,prävә'zāshә nəl/, adj, (Definition) composed extemporaneously. (Sentence) Patrick enjoys improvisational dancing but not ballroom dancing.

imperceptible

/impә(r)'septәbә l/, adj, (Definition) extremely slight, gradual, or subtle. (Sentence) The air was filled with a delicate, springlike fragrance, almost imperceptible.

ineligible

/in'elə̇jәbәl/, adj, (Definition) not qualified to be chosen. (Sentence) According to the rules, last year's champion is ineligible to compete this year.

idunit

/ī'dәnə̇t/, n, (Definition) an autobiographical or confessional account usually of a sensational character. (Sentence) Everyone expected the colorful Wall Street broker to write an idunit after his conviction for embezzlement.

iatrogenic

/ī,atrō'jenik/, adj, (Definition) induced by a physician—used chiefly of ailments induced in a patient by autosuggestion based on a physician's words or actions during examination. (Sentence) Belinda had iatrogenic pains after her annual checkup.

geognosy

/jē'ägnәsē/, n, (Definition) a branch of geology that deals with the materials of Earth and its general exterior and interior constitution. (Sentence) Hilda's research in geognosy involved classifying several kinds of minerals and recording their distribution throughout the world.

geologist

/jē'älәjə̇st/, n, (Definition) a specialist in the history of Earth and its life especially as recorded in rocks. (Sentence) The geologist conducted a survey of the rock masses and mineral resources of the area.

gymkhana

/jim'känә/, n, (Definition) a horseback-riding meet featuring games and novelty contests. (Sentence) Clem practiced daily with his horse so that he could enter several events in the upcoming gymkhana.

giraffe

/jә'raf/, n, (Definition) a large fleet African ruminant mammal that is the tallest of living quadrupeds and has a very long neck and a short coat with dark blotches separated by pale lines. (Sentence) Each giraffe has a unique pattern of coat markings that distinguishes it from all other giraffes.

chaotic

/kā'äd.ik/, adj, (Definition) being in a state of or marked by utter confusion completely wanting in order, sequence, organization, or predictable operation. (Sentence) The course in time management did not help Brenda alter her chaotic lifestyle.

concatenate

/kän'kad.ә,nāt/, v, (Definition) link together : unite in a series or chain. (Sentence) The professor told the class to write a program that would concatenate two or more files.

carcinogen

/kär'sinәjәn/, n, (Definition) a substance or agent producing or inciting cancerous growth. (Sentence) Asbestos has been proven to be a powerful carcinogen.

kielbasa

/kil'bäsә/, n, (Definition) [Note: A differently pronounced variant of the word is kielbasy.] a smoked sausage. (Sentence) Adria ordered a half-pound of potato salad and a kielbasa from the deli.

chimerical

/kī'merə̇kәl/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with chimeric and chimeral.] unreal and existing only as the product of wild unrestrained imagination. (Sentence) Many video games pit the player against chimerical monsters.

coyote

/kī'ōd.(,)ē/, n, (Definition) a small wolf native to the western part of North America and well established northward in Alaska and eastward at least as far as New York state. (Sentence) The lone male coyote kept to the edges of the pack for many days before being accepted into the group.

coincidence

/kō'in(t)sə̇dәn(t) s/, n, (Definition) the concurrence of events or circumstances appropriate to one another or having significance in relation to one another but between which there is no apparent causal connection. (Sentence) By coincidence, Mary's wedding date is the same day her cousin plans to get married.

croustade

/krü'städ/, n, (Definition) a crisp shell (as of toasted or fried bread) in which to serve food. (Sentence) Louise didn't know whether or not she was supposed to eat the croustade in which her salad was served.

credenza

/krə̇'denzә/, n, (Definition) a sideboard, buffet, or bookcase without legs whose base rests flat on the floor. (Sentence) Robin's CDs are on the second shelf of the credenza.

cointise

/kwan'tēz/, n, (Definition) a scarf worn on a lady's headdress or as a token of favor on a knight's helmet. (Sentence) Sir Agravaine proudly displayed the bright red cointise.

quadrille

/kwä'dril/, n, (Definition) a four-handed form of a card game played throughout Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries. (Sentence) Mrs. Bates was a very old lady, almost past everything but tea and quadrille.

quadrumanous

/kwä'drümәnәs/, adj, (Definition) having four hands. (Sentence) Luke complained that a bass player would have to be quadrumanous to master the piece he was given to play.

quinquennially

/kwin'kwenēәlē/, adv, (Definition) every five years. (Sentence) Marge's high school class holds a reunion quinquennially, and each time the intervening five years seems shorter and shorter.

cucurbit

/kyü'kәrbə̇t/, n, (Definition) (Note: Dictionary designates as attributive.) a many- seeded fleshy fruit plant with a hard rind (such as squashes, pumpkins, and certain gourds). (Sentence) The cucurbit is probably put to a wider variety of uses than is any other fruit family.

cuneiform

/kyü'nēə̇,fŏrm/, adj, (Definition) written in characters composed of strokes having the form of a wedge or arrowhead. (Sentence) The cuneiform Code of Hammurabi is the most complete record of ancient Babylonian law in existence.

cabana

/kә'ban(y)ә/, n, (Definition) a tentlike often portable shelter with a projecting canopy over an open side facing a beach or swimming pool. (Sentence) Sam and Doug will move the cabana closer to the swimming pool.

caduceus

/kә'd(y)üs(h)ēәs /, n, (Definition) a conventionalized representation of a staff with two snakes curled around it and with two wings at the top. (Sentence) In Greek mythology the caduceus was the staff of Hermes, the messenger of the gods.

cadaver

/kә'davә(r)/, n, (Definition) a dead human or animal body usually intended for cutting so as to expose the several parts and their locations and connections. (Sentence) Duncan dissected a cadaver in anatomy class.

cajolery

/kә'jōl(ә)rē/, n, (Definition) use of delusive enticements. (Sentence) After much cajolery, the kitten finally came down from the tree.

collaborator

/kә'labә,rād.ә(r) /, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: collaborateur] one that works jointly with others. (Sentence) Sir William Gilbert was Arthur Sullivan's collaborator for many operettas.

calypso

/kә'lip(,)sō/, n, (Definition) a balladlike improvisation in African rhythm usually satirizing current events first composed and sung in competition in the British West Indies. (Sentence) Harry Belafonte gained fame as a singer of calypso.

calliope

/kә'līә(,)pē/, n, (Definition) a musical instrument consisting of a series of crude steam or air whistles used on riverboats and in circuses and carnivals. (Sentence) Passengers gathered on the upper deck of the Mississippi Queen to listen to the calliope.

cologne

/kә'lōn/, n, (Definition) a perfumed liquid composed of alcohol and certain aromatic oils. (Sentence) The taxi driver sprayed expensive cologne in his cab every evening.

collusion

/kә'lüzhәn/, n, (Definition) secret agreement : secret cooperation for a fraudulent or deceitful purpose. (Sentence) For acting in collusion with an enemy agent, the nuclear scientist was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

commendable

/kә'mendәbәl/, adj, (Definition) worthy of praise. (Sentence) Jim received several scholarships as a result of his commendable academic performance.

quenelle

/kә'nel/, n, (Definition) a ball or oval of meat stuffing cooked in boiling water or stock and served as a garnish or as a separate dish. (Sentence) Martha served a quenelle of chicken in brown onion sauce as an appetizer.

Caribbean

/kә'ribēәn/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or characteristic of the eastern and southern West Indies. (Sentence) Whenever Ellie thinks about Caribbean music, she hears in her head the brilliant sound of steel drums.

corrodible

/kә'rōdәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being worn away or converted into an easily disintegrated substance. (Sentence) Lemon juice should not be stored in a corrodible container.

kerplunk

/kә(r)'plәŋk/, adv, (Definition) with a thud. (Sentence) Mimi dropped the apple kerplunk onto Mrs. Vega's desk.

comedienne

/kә,mēdē'en/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with comedian.] an actress who plays in dramas of light and amusing character and typically with a happy ending. (Sentence) Lucille Ball was America's favorite comedienne during the 1950s.

condemn

/kәn'dem/, v, (Definition) [has near homonym: contemn] pronounce as ill- advised, reprehensible, wrong, or evil. (Sentence) Often custom justifies an action that years later it will condemn.

conglomerate

/kәn'gläm(ә)rə̇t/, n, (Definition) a mixture gathered from various sources : a composite mass. (Sentence) Father called his specialty "Irish stew," but it was really more like a conglomerate of indeterminate substances.

concordat

/kәn'kŏr,dat/, n, (Definition) a compact between a national government and a religious group establishing terms of agreement concerning matters of mutual interest. (Sentence) Bonaparte and Pope Pius VII signed a concordat that the state of France should protect and acknowledge the Roman Catholic Church.

conceive

/kәn'sēv/, v, (Definition) form in the mind. (Sentence) Alec tried to conceive a solution to his problem but couldn't think of anything.

contusion

/kәn't(y)üzhәn/, n, (Definition) a bruise caused by external violence. (Sentence) The contusion on Wayne's shoulder began to fade nine days after his accident.

authoritarianis m

/ŏ,thärә'terēә,ni zәm/, n, (Definition) a political system that concentrates power in the hands of a leader or a small autocratic elite not constitutionally responsible to the people. (Sentence) Sergei said that despite all its democratic rhetoric, the system was authoritarianism, pure and simple.

pastiche

/pa'stēsh/, n, (Definition) a usually incongruous medley of different styles and materials : hodgepodge. (Sentence) Jordan considers the design for the new library a pretentious pastiche.

parquet

/pär'kā/, n, (Definition) a patterned flooring. (Sentence) Terry had expensive parquet installed in the foyer.

pecksniffian

/pek'snifēәn/, adj, (Definition) unctuously hypocritical : selfish and corrupt behind a display of seeming benevolence. (Sentence) The pecksniffian humbug in charge of the charity event took on the job merely as a public relations stunt.

pidan

/pē'dän/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: piton] duck eggs preserved in brine to which lime, ashes, and tea are added. (Sentence) Art's grandmother makes authentic pidan.

penology

/pē'nälәjē/, n, (Definition) a branch of criminology dealing with prison management and the treatment of offenders especially with regard to their rehabilitation. (Sentence) In his course in penology, Jake studied the procedures for probation and parole.

piqued

/pēkt/, v, (Definition) [has homonyms: peaked, peeked] excited or aroused by a provocation, challenge, or rebuff. (Sentence) The envelope sealed with sealing wax piqued Helen's curiosity.

Platonic

/plә'tänik/, adj, (Definition) being in accordance with or in the manner of the Greek philosopher Plato and his works. (Sentence) Iris Murdoch has written modern Platonic dialogues.

platysma

/plә'tizmә/, n, (Definition) a broad thin layer of muscle on each side of the neck. (Sentence) Cory's training for his massage therapy license included learning the names of the muscles of the neck and back, including the platysma, the trapezius, and the intracostal.

pomology

/pō'mälәjē/, n, (Definition) the science of the cultivation of fruits. (Sentence) John became familiar with fungi such as American brown rot, apple rust, and banana freckle in his course in pomology.

pochette

/pō'shet/, n, (Definition) kit : handbag. (Sentence) Tanya carried her money and keys in a small silk pochette that matched her evening dress.

portcullis

/pōrt'kәlə̇s/, n, (Definition) a large grating of iron bars or heavy timbers suspended by chains over the gateway of a fortified place and lowered between grooves to prevent passage. (Sentence) The guard quickly lowered the portcullis after the king and his knights had passed through the gate.

portmanteau

/pōrt'mant(,)ō/, n, (Definition) a large traveling bag. (Sentence) The clown removed an enormous pumpkin from his portmanteau.

postcibal

/pōs(t)'sībәl/, adj, (Definition) occurring after a meal. (Sentence) George and Harriet hired a vocalist for the banquet's postcibal entertainment.

prostration

/prä'strāshәn/, n, (Definition) complete physical or mental exhaustion. (Sentence) When Chris came down with the flu, she suffered from chills, fever, and prostration.

prosthesis

/präs'thēsə̇s/, n, (Definition) an artificial device to replace a missing part of the body. (Sentence) After losing his right foot in an accident, Stan had to learn to walk again with a prosthesis.

precariously

/prē'ka(a)rēәslē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner characterized by a lack of security or stability. (Sentence) Teddy balanced precariously on the chair as he attempted to extract the last Oreo from the cookie jar.

proaulion

/prō'ŏlēәn/, n, (Definition) a portico or colonnade that opens into the narthex of a church or temple. (Sentence) Pine garlands adorned the proaulion.

procellous

/prō'selәs/, adj, (Definition) stormy. (Sentence) There are many dangers for a small boat on a procellous sea.

proscription

/prō'skripshәn/, n, (Definition) an imposed restraint or restriction : prohibition. (Sentence) Judith's consulting contract includes a six-month proscription against working for a competing firm.

proficiency

/prә'fishәnsē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being well advanced in an art, occupation, skill, or a branch of knowledge. (Sentence) Through steady practice the batter attained great proficiency at bunting the ball.

procedure

/prә'sējәr/, n, (Definition) a particular way of doing or of going about the accomplishment of something. (Sentence) Even though he carefully followed all the steps in the procedure, Jack still couldn't retrieve his messages.

puchero

/pü'che,rō/, n, (Definition) a Latin American boiled dinner or stew containing beef, sausage, bacon, and various vegetables. (Sentence) Olivia sampled puchero at an Argentine restaurant.

pelisse

/pə̇'lēs/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: police] a woman's loose lightweight cloak with wide collar and fur trimming. (Sentence) Grandmother's old pelisse was a perfect costume for our production of A Christmas Carol.

penultimate

/pə̇'nәltәmə̇t/, adj, (Definition) next to the last. (Sentence) In the word ammunition, the stress falls on the penultimate syllable.

pistachio

/pə̇'stashē,ō/, n, (Definition) the edible green seed of a small tree of southern Europe and Asia Minor. (Sentence) Patricia placed a pistachio on each parfait.

petrophilous

/pə̇'träfәlәs/, adj, (Definition) attached to or living on rock; used especially of algae and crustaceans. (Sentence) Petrophilous barnacles and limpets can be found along rocky shores.

petunia

/pə̇'tünyә/, n, (Definition) a common garden plant with funnel-shaped flowers of many colors and patterns. (Sentence) Russell pulled a purple petunia from the flower bed.

paella

/pә'elә/, n, (Definition) a saffron-flavored stew containing rice, chicken, seafood, and various vegetables. (Sentence) Paella can be an expensive dish to prepare because saffron threads are so costly.

palladian

/pә'lādēәn/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to wisdom or learning. (Sentence) Ike tries to strike a balance between palladian pursuits and recreational activities.

palooka

/pә'lükә/, n, (Definition) an inexperienced or incompetent boxer. (Sentence) The boxing manager told his fighter to box like a palooka for one round, then come out swinging hard.

perambulate

/pә'rambyә,lāt/, v, (Definition) travel over or through especially on foot. (Sentence) Sid and Amy often perambulate the park on sunny days.

periphrasis

/pә'rifrәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) the use of a longer phrasing in place of a possible shorter and plainer form of expression. (Sentence) Frustrated by the document's endless periphrasis, Ludwig threw up his hands in despair.

peripety

/pә'ripәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a sudden or unexpected reversal of circumstances or situation in a literary work. (Sentence) The peripety in the last act of the play stunned the audience.

perfidiously

/pә(r)'fidēәslē/, adv, (Definition) in a dishonest or disloyal manner. (Sentence) Paul has a reputation for behaving perfidiously and should not be given confidential information.

perfunctory

/pә(r)'fәŋ(k)t(ә)r ē/, adj, (Definition) characterized by routine or superficiality : cursory. (Sentence) The bureaucrat gave the teenager a perfunctory smile and continued to ignore her.

perspective

/pә(r)'spektiv/, n, (Definition) the appearance to the eye of objects in respect to their relative distance and positions. (Sentence) Perspective made the long rows of machines seem almost to meet.

rheometer

/rē'ämәd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) an instrument for measuring the flow of viscous substances. (Sentence) A rheometer is used for measuring the flow properties of powders, granules, and wet mixes in the drug and cosmetic industries.

regenerative

/rē'jenә,rād.iv/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, marked by, or using a process of replacing or producing anew. (Sentence) The regenerative stage of a perennial plant's life cycle generally takes place during the winter months.

redoubtable

/rə̇'daůd.әbәl/, adj, (Definition) inspiring awe or reverence : august, eminent. (Sentence) Mount Rushmore is a fitting memorial to four redoubtable statesmen.

reprieve

/rə̇'prēv/, n, (Definition) a formal suspension of the execution of a sentence especially of death. (Sentence) Bowing to public pressure, the governor granted a reprieve to the convict awaiting execution.

recension

/rə̇'senchәn/, n, (Definition) a critical revision of a text (as of an ancient author) by an editor. (Sentence) Patricia recently read a modern recension of Dante's Inferno.

recede

/rə̇'sēd/, v, (Definition) move back or away. (Sentence) Buck watched the water recede as the tide went out.

rissole

/rə̇'sōl/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: resole] minced meat or fish covered with pastry and fried in deep fat. (Sentence) Marianne ate a rissole for lunch.

resplendence

/rə̇'splendәn(t)s/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of shining brilliantly. (Sentence) The resplendence of the sunset over Loon Lake enticed Eric to stay one more day.

rhetorically

/rə̇'tŏrə̇k(ә)lē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner using the art of expressive speech or discourse. (Sentence) Susan threw up her hands and asked rhetorically what would happen to her next.

reverberated

/rə̇'vәrbә,rād.ə̇d /, v, (Definition) returned or sent back : echoed. (Sentence) Loud sounds reverberated throughout the cave.

saccade

/sa'käd/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: succade] a small rapid jerky movement of the eye especially as it jumps from fixation on one point to another (as in reading). (Sentence) Mary felt that her eyes could not take one more saccade, so she closed them during the remainder of the PowerPoint presentation.

saccadic

/sa'kädik/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: psychotic] of or relating to a sudden movement : jerky. (Sentence) Virginia's saccadic motions were symptomatic of a neurological disorder.

sachet

/sa'shā/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: sashay] a small bag or packet; especially : a small bag containing a perfumed powder that is used to scent clothes. (Sentence) Aunt Kate keeps a sachet in her clothes closet.

solstitial

/sälz'tishәl/, adj, (Definition) of or relating to the two points on the ecliptic at which its distance from the celestial equator is greatest and which is reached by the Sun each year about June 22nd and December 23rd. (Sentence) Ancient myths about the eternal battle between light and dark are tied to equinoctial and solstitial moments in the year.

somniferous

/säm'nif(ә)rәs/, adj, (Definition) tending to induce sleep. (Sentence) For most of July the city baked in somniferous heat.

Sardoodledom

/sär'düdəldәm/, n, (Definition) mechanically contrived plot structure and stereotyped or unrealistic characterization in drama : melodrama. (Sentence) Excellent acting and directing masked the play's Sardoodledom.

sarcolysis

/sär'kälәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) the disintegration or dissolution of muscular tissue. (Sentence) Examination of the patient's heart revealed areas of advanced sarcolysis.

sarcoma

/sär'kōmә/, n, (Definition) a malignant tumor arising in connective tissue and especially in bone, cartilage, or striated muscle. (Sentence) The sarcoma in Pat's arm was treated early enough to prevent serious impairment.

cessation

/se'sāshәn/, n, (Definition) a temporary or final ceasing or discontinuance (as of action). (Sentence) The peal of the bell marked the cessation of the emergency preparedness drill.

cetology

/sē'tälәjē/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: sitology] a branch of zoology dealing with the whales. (Sentence) Many renowned scientists in the field of cetology assembled in Japan to discuss the recent beaching incidents.

champagne

/sham'pān/, n, (Definition) [has homonym: champaign] a pale orange yellow to light grayish yellowish brown. (Sentence) Of the colors of limousines available for hire, Ted and Kara preferred champagne.

chartreuse

/shär'trüz/, n, (Definition) a variable color averaging a brilliant yellow green. (Sentence) Elsie commented that the chartreuse vehicle looked like a huge dollop of wasabi.

chiffon

/shi'fän/, n, (Definition) a sheer plain-weave very lightweight clothing fabric usually given a dull soft finish. (Sentence) The singer sauntered into the spotlight in a dress of white chiffon.

shallot

/shә'lät/, n, (Definition) a perennial herb that resembles an onion and is used in cooking. (Sentence) Ted didn't have time to go to the store again, so he substituted a white onion for a shallot in the recipe.

sidereal

/sī'dirēәl/, adj, (Definition) [has near homonym: sideral] of or relating to stars or constellations. (Sentence) Time-lapse photography was used by the observatory to detect sidereal motion.

psychomachy

/sī'kämәkē/, n, (Definition) a conflict of the soul (as with the body or between good and evil). (Sentence) Countless novels have as their theme the psychomachy within the hero as he struggles to do right.

psilanthropy

/sī'lan(t)thrәpē/, n, (Definition) a doctrine of the merely human existence of Christ. (Sentence) A well-known subscriber to psilanthropy was Thomas Jefferson, who regarded Jesus as a great moral teacher but not as a divine being.

psilosis

/sī'lōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a falling out of hair. (Sentence) Jerome's psilosis was a side effect of chemotherapy.

scripophily

/skri'päfәlē/, n, (Definition) a collection of old stock and bond certificates. (Sentence) The rarest item in Jill's scripophily is a General Motors stock certificate from 1918.

spasmodically

/spaz'mädə̇k(ә)l ē/, adv, (Definition) in a sudden violent and temporary manner. (Sentence) Tupper spasmodically jerked his leg away from the blow.

spiccato

/spə̇'käd.(,)ō/, adj, (Definition) performed with springing bow—used as a direction in music for stringed instruments. (Sentence) The cellist excelled in playing the spiccato passages of the movement.

spaghetti

/spә'ged.ē/, n, (Definition) a pasta made in solid strings of small diameter but larger than vermicelli. (Sentence) The specialty of the restaurant was spaghetti with meat sauce.

psychiatry

/sə̇'kīәtrē/, n, (Definition) a branch of medicine that deals with the science of treating mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. (Sentence) The concept of multiple personalities is of special interest to Helen, who plans to pursue a career in psychiatry.

sequaciousness

/sə̇'kwāshәsnes/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being imitative or obsequious. (Sentence) Cal's sequaciousness failed to win him a promotion.

semanteme

/sə̇'man,tēm/, n, (Definition) a word or a base that expresses a definite image or idea—distinguished from morpheme. (Sentence) The verb run is an example of a semanteme.

semester

/sə̇'mestә(r)/, n, (Definition) either of the two periods of instruction commonly 18 weeks in length into which an academic year is usually divided. (Sentence) Yolanda was delighted that her grades for the first semester were all A's.

scenario

/sə̇'na(a)rē,ō/, n, (Definition) an outline or synopsis of a play. (Sentence) After the actor read the scenario, he decided that he was not right for the leading role.

cynophilist

/sə̇'näfәlə̇st/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with form of sinophil/sinophile.] a dog fancier : one that is favorably disposed toward dogs. (Sentence) Although Leon considered himself a cynophilist, he did not trust the pit bull terrier.

synopsis

/sə̇'näpsə̇s/, n, (Definition) a brief orderly outline affording a general view. (Sentence) Marvin read a plot synopsis before he saw Macbeth.

serenity

/sə̇'renәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being calm or peaceful. (Sentence) Nothing ruffled the serenity of her expression.

syringe

/sə̇'rinj/, n, (Definition) a device used to inject fluids into or withdraw them from the body or its cavities. (Sentence) Cameron let the toddler use an old ear syringe as a bathtub toy.

cirrhosis

/sə̇'rōsə̇s/, n, (Definition) [has homonym and near homonym: sorosis and xerosis] a chronic progressive disease of the liver. (Sentence) The damage caused by cirrhosis is irreversible.

secernment

/sə̇'sәrnmәnt/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with secernent.] the act or process of distinguishing or discriminating in thought. (Sentence) The thesaurus proved enlightening in its secernment of the subtle differences between synonyms.

suspiciously

/sә'spishәslē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner arousing or intending to arouse distrust : questionably. (Sentence) Conrad's story sounded suspiciously like one his older brother had written two years ago.

Cerberean

/sә(r)'birēәn/, adj, (Definition) of, relating to, or like a watchdog. (Sentence) Dobie is the best Cerberean creature one could hope to have.

salutatorian

/sә,lüd.әtōrēәn/, n, (Definition) the graduating student who is usually second highest in rank and who in some institutions delivers the salutatory oration. (Sentence) No one was more surprised than Sharonne when she was named salutatorian of her class.

surpass

/sәr'pas/, v, (Definition) become better, greater, or stronger than. (Sentence) Jay's semester grades will surpass even his parents' high expectations.

tachometer

/ta'kämәd.ә(r)/, n, (Definition) a device for indicating the speed of rotation. (Sentence) By watching the tachometer, Mr. Henderson was able to keep the engine running above 3000 rpm.

tangential

/tan'jenchәl/, adj, (Definition) acting on or lying on a line that touches something at only one point. (Sentence) Sharif wrote the equation on a line tangential to the circle.

tandoori

/tän'dů(ә)rē/, adj, (Definition) cooked in a cylindrical clay or earthenware oven over charcoal. (Sentence) Meera made tandoori chicken and vegetables for Sanjay's birthday dinner.

tendresse

/tändres/, n, (Definition) tender feeling : fondness. (Sentence) Sarah portrayed the sister who, in maidenly fashion, conceals her tendresse for the hero.

teleology

/telē'älәjē/, n, (Definition) the use of design, purpose, or utility as an explanation of any natural phenomenon. (Sentence) The theory of evolution relies heavily on teleology.

theologaster

/thē'älә,gastә(r)/, n, (Definition) a shallow theologian; especially : one who pretends to possess great knowledge relating to the presentation of the traditional doctrines of a religion or religious group. (Sentence) The bishop warned his flock to beware of the theologaster who would subvert the word of God with his vain imaginings.

transducer

/tran(t)s'd(y)üsә( r)/, n, (Definition) a device actuated by power from one system and supplying power in the same or any other form to a second system. (Sentence) A common transducer is a microphone, which converts sound waves into electrical signals.

tridactylous

/trī'daktə̇lәs/, adj, (Definition) having three fingers or toes. (Sentence) The museum exhibit included the fossilized footprint of a tridactylous dinosaur.

trichotomy

/trī'käd.ә,mē/, n, (Definition) a system divided or divisible into three constituents or elements. (Sentence) Golda's civics teacher explained how the United States government is a trichotomy, divided into the legislative, judicial, and executive branches.

tricephalous

/trī'sefәlәs/, adj, (Definition) having or depicted with three heads. (Sentence) Orpheus managed to lull the tricephalous watchdog to sleep by playing his lyre.

tuyere

/tü'ye(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a nozzle through which an air blast is delivered to a forge. (Sentence) Dan checked the tuyere for an obstruction.

tenaculum

/tə̇'nakyәlәm/, n, (Definition) a slender sharp-pointed hook attached to a handle and used mainly in surgery for seizing and holding parts (as arteries). (Sentence) Connie slipped the tenaculum under the patient's carotid artery.

tinnitus

/tə̇'nīd.әs/, n, (Definition) a ringing, roaring, or hissing in the ears that is purely subjective. (Sentence) It's hard to understand how annoying tinnitus is unless you have experienced it yourself.

terrazzo

/tә'rät(,)sō/, n, (Definition) a mosaic flooring made by embedding small pieces of marble or granite in freshly placed mortar and after hardening grinding and polishing the surface. (Sentence) The contractor explained that if Travis wanted a hard, shiny floor at a reasonable price, terrazzo was an excellent option.

terrarium

/tә'rerēәm/, n, (Definition) a fully enclosed wholly or predominantly glass container for the indoor cultivation of moisture- loving plants. (Sentence) Mosses and other small woodland plants thrive in a terrarium.

terrigenous

/tә'rijәnәs/, adj, (Definition) formed by the erosive action of rivers, tides, and currents—used of an ocean bottom. (Sentence) At the brink of the continental shelf, terrigenous deposits build up and are swept away.

viviparous

/vī'vip(ә)rәs/, adj, (Definition) producing living young instead of eggs from within the body in the manner of nearly all mammals, many reptiles, and a few fishes. (Sentence) Some species of the eelpout lay eggs, while others are viviparous.

vociferous

/vō'sif(ә)rәs/, adj, (Definition) marked by or given to ready vehement insistent outcry. (Sentence) A vociferous couple in the back row ruined our evening at the poetry reading.

veneer

/və̇'ni(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a thin sheet of wood cut or sawed from a log and adapted for adherence to a smooth surface (as of wood). (Sentence) The maple veneer really spruced up the old pine table.

veracious

/və̇'rāshәs/, adj, (Definition) [has homonym: voracious] observant of the truth : habitually speaking the truth. (Sentence) It was up to the jury to decide which of the two witnesses was the more veracious.

viridity

/və̇'ridәd.ē/, n, (Definition) the quality or state of being green : the color of grass or foliage. (Sentence) Zoysia grass is known for its lack of viridity in cool months.

vivacious

/və̇'vāshәs/, adj, (Definition) lively in temper or conduct : sprightly. (Sentence) The vivacious teenager thought nothing of chatting for hours on the telephone.

velleity

/vә'lēәd.ē/, n, (Definition) a slight wish : a faint desire. (Sentence) Mr. and Mrs. Newton found that the hotel staff had anticipated their every velleity.

vanadium

/vә'nādēәm/, n, (Definition) a gray or white malleable ductile polyvalent metallic element that is resistant to air, seawater, alkalies, and reducing acids except hydrofluoric acid. (Sentence) Vanadium is often used as a dye in ceramics and pottery.

vermiculate

/vә(r)'mikyәlə̇t/, adj, (Definition) wormlike in shape. (Sentence) When Tom's two-year-old brother tried to draw something, he could manage only a few vermiculate lines.

euphonium

/yü'fōnēәm/, n, (Definition) a tenor tuba similar in shape, pitch, and range to the baritone but with a larger bore, a mellower tone quality, and often a double bell. (Sentence) Rocky's mom made him practice his euphonium in the barn.

Euhemerism

/yü'hēmә,rizәm/, n, (Definition) a theory held by the Greek mythographer Euhemerus that the gods of mythology were but deified mortals. (Sentence) While studying Euhemerism, Serjei learned that the god Vulcan was the first to discover how to make bronze and iron.

uliginous

/yü'lijәnәs/, adj, (Definition) growing in wet or swampy ground. (Sentence) Quentin is making a study of uliginous mosses.

unau

/yü'nŏ/, n, (Definition) a two-toed sloth of Central and South America. (Sentence) The unau seldom descends to the ground because its slow movements make it easy prey for jaguars and other predators.

usurper

/yü'sәrpәr/, n, (Definition) one that infringes or encroaches upon the rights or property of another. (Sentence) By the end of his term, the mayor had become known as a usurper of authority.

euthenics

/yü'theniks/, n pl, (Definition) a science that deals with developing human well- being and efficient functioning through the improvement of environmental conditions. (Sentence) As the world becomes more populated, people pay more attention to the relevance of euthenics.

xanthoma

/zan'thōmә/, n, (Definition) a condition that is marked by the development (as on the eyelids, neck, or back) of irregular yellow patches or nodules. (Sentence) High cholesterol or triglyceride levels can be factors in causing xanthoma.

zoophilist

/zō'äfәlə̇st/, n, (Definition) a lover of animals; especially : a person concerned with the rights of lower animals and their protection from abuse. (Sentence) The noted zoophilist explained how deforestation is endangering several species of mammals and birds.

zucchini

/zü'kēnē/, n, (Definition) a slender green summer squash. (Sentence) Tim picked a large zucchini from his garden.

ekistics

/ə̇'kistiks/, n pl, (Definition) a science dealing with human settlements and drawing on the research and experience of professionals in various fields (as architecture, engineering, city planning, and sociology). (Sentence) Dora's degree in sociology aided her in her study of ekistics.

echinus

/ə̇'kīnәs/, n, (Definition) the rounded molding forming the bell of the Greek Doric capital of a column. (Sentence) The tour guide pointed out the echinus of the capital to Nancy's group.

elaborative

/ə̇'labә,rād.iv/, adj, (Definition) tending to expand something in detail. (Sentence) Each topical heading was followed by elaborative paragraphs giving details.

elixir

/ə̇'liksә(r)/, n, (Definition) a substance or concoction held to be capable of prolonging life indefinitely. (Sentence) Explorers through the ages have sought the elixir of life, better known as the "fountain of youth."

eliminable

/ə̇'limәnәbәl/, adj, (Definition) capable of being removed or excluded. (Sentence) It seems that the more eliminable political candidates are those who spend less on their campaigns.

illusionist

/ə̇'lüzhәnə̇st/, n, (Definition) one (as a magician) who produces deceptive or misleading effects. (Sentence) The illusionist amazed the audience when he levitated a reclining subject.

emolument

/ə̇'mälyәmәnt/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with emollient.] profit or perquisites from office, employment, or labor. (Sentence) The waitress who did not report the tips portion of her emolument faced incarceration for tax evasion.

emollient

/ə̇'mälyәnt/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with emolument.] soothing especially to the skin or mucous membrane. (Sentence) Erna usually applies an emollient cream to her hands after washing dishes.

inoculate

/ə̇'näkyә,lāt/, v, (Definition) introduce microorganisms, vaccines, or sera into a living body to establish immunity to a disease. (Sentence) Dr. Cooper had to bribe Frank with a lollipop before he would let her inoculate him.

initiatory

/ə̇'nish(ē)ә,tŏrē/, adj, (Definition) constituting an introduction or beginning. (Sentence) On page three of the book is an initiatory paragraph that gives personal information about the author.

inaugurator

/ə̇'nŏgyә,rād.ә(r) /, n, (Definition) a person who begins or brings about the beginning of something. (Sentence) Geoffrey of Monmouth is credited as the inaugurator of the legends of King Arthur.

ecclesiastic

/ə̇,klēzē'astik/, n, (Definition) a person in holy orders or consecrated to the service of the church. (Sentence) The new bishop was an ecclesiastic of high learning and virtue.

electrolysis

/ə̇,lek'trälәsə̇s/, n, (Definition) the destruction of hair roots with an electric current. (Sentence) Electrolysis was one of the means of hair removal demonstrated in Roweena's cosmetology class.

embezzled

/ə̇m'bezәld/, v, (Definition) appropriated fraudulently to one's own use (as property entrusted to one's care). (Sentence) The bank employee embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars before the authorities discovered the crime.

embroidered

/ə̇m'brŏidә(r)d/, v, (Definition) ornamented with needlework. (Sentence) Grandma embroidered the tablecloth with a floral motif.

impediment

/ə̇m'pedәmәnt/, n, (Definition) hindrance, block. (Sentence) Clementine's lack of a degree was an impediment to her getting a good job.

enfranchiseme nt

/ə̇n'fran,chīzmәn t/, n, (Definition) the act of endowing with a constitutional or statutory right or privilege; especially : the act of endowing with the right to vote. (Sentence) It is hard to believe today that segments of American society were once denied enfranchisement.

enjambed

/ə̇n'jamd/, adj, (Definition) marked or characterized by the continuation in prosody of the sense in a phrase beyond the end of a verse or couplet. (Sentence) Haroldur's analysis of the enjambed lines was enlightening.

ablution

/ә'blüshәn/, n, (Definition) the washing of one's body or part of it as a religious rite. (Sentence) A common example of ablution in Judaism is washing the hands before a meal that includes bread.

abruptly

/ә'brәp(t)lē/, adv, (Definition) in a manner that produces the effect of a sudden ending. (Sentence) George's mom stopped abruptly at the door of his room when she saw his pet python on the floor.

adagio

/ә'dä(,)jō/, n, (Definition) [Note: The definition provided is not the one most commonly associated with this word.] a series of sustained and perfectly controlled dance movements displaying balance and grace. (Sentence) The wicked fairy performed a perfect adagio just before Sleeping Beauty appeared.

aphasia

/ә'fāzh(ē)ә/, n, (Definition) [has near homonym: aphagia] the loss or impairment of the power to use words as symbols of ideas that results from a brain lesion. (Sentence) As a speech therapist, Tonya takes a particular interest in patients struggling with aphasia.

accountant

/ә'kaůntənt/, n, (Definition) one skilled in the practice of classifying, recording, and summarizing business and financial transactions and analyzing, verifying, and reporting the results. (Sentence) Every April Rhonda vows to hire an accountant to figure her next year's taxes.

amine

/ә'mēn/, n, (Definition) any of a class of basic compounds derived from ammonia by replacement of hydrogen by one or more univalent hydrocarbon radicals or other nonacidic organic radicals. (Sentence) Aniline, the simplest aromatic amine, is a toxic compound used in dyes.

amole

/ә'mōlē/, n, (Definition) any of a number of plants utilized as a source of soap. (Sentence) The discovery of an amole created much excitement among the castaways.

anomaly

/ә'nämәlē/, n, (Definition) the angular distance of a planet from its perihelion as seen from the Sun. (Sentence) The anomaly in a planet's orbit is caused by the gravitational influence of other planets.

anemochore

/ә'nemә,kō(ә)r/, n, (Definition) a plant that has seeds or spores adapted to distribution by wind. (Sentence) The dandelion is a familiar anemochore.

opossum

/ә'päsәm/, n, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with possum.] an omnivorous largely nocturnal and arboreal mammal that has a prehensile tail and an abdominal pouch to which the young are transferred at birth. (Sentence) Arnold caught the opossum eating the cat's food.

aporia

/ә'pōrēә/, n, (Definition) a passage in speech or writing incorporating or presenting a difficulty or doubt. (Sentence) The Bible verse "Then the steward said within himself, 'What shall I do?'" is an aporia.

astigmatism

/ә'stigmә,tizәm/, n, (Definition) a defect of an optical system (as of the eye) that prevents light from focusing accurately and results in a blurred image. (Sentence) Amy's new eyeglasses correct her astigmatism.

objicient

/әb'jishәnt/, n, (Definition) one who opposes something with words or argument. (Sentence) The bill became a law despite the protests of a very influential objicient.

abstruse

/әbz'trüs/, adj, (Definition) [has obsolete variant with similar pronunciation: obstruse] difficult to comprehend or understand. (Sentence) Mr. Thompson's abstruse calculations covered the blackboard.

untenantable

/әn'tenәntәbәl/, adj, (Definition) [Note: Could be confused with untenable.] incapable of being occupied or lived in. (Sentence) The hurricane left thousands of homes untenantable.

uncomplimenta ry

/әnkämplә'ment әrē/, adj, (Definition) degrading, derogatory. (Sentence) Betsy felt sure that her new haircut would elicit many uncomplimentary remarks.

uncooperative

/әnkō'äpәrәd.iv/, adj, (Definition) not marked by willingness and ability to work with others in a common effort. (Sentence) Mr. Jenkins sighed, "Do you enjoy being the most belligerent, uncooperative child in school?"