Top IJ words

compulsive

"compulsive | kəmˈpʌlsɪv | adjective 1 resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge: compulsive eating. • (of a person) acting as a result of an irresistible urge: a compulsive liar. 2 irresistibly interesting or exciting; compelling: this play is compulsive viewing. DERIVATIVES compulsiveness noun ORIGIN late 16th century (in the sense 'compulsory'): from medieval Latin compulsivus, from compuls- 'driven, forced', from the verb compellere (see compel). compulsive (sense 1) (originally a term in psychology) dates from the early 20th century."

conceptual

"conceptual | kənˈsɛptʃʊəl | adjective relating to or based on mental concepts: philosophy deals with conceptual difficulties. ORIGIN mid 17th century: from medieval Latin conceptualis, from Latin concept- 'conceived', from the verb concipere (see concept)."

confirmed

"confirmed | kənˈfəːmd | adjective (of a person) firmly established in a particular habit, belief, or way of life and unlikely to change their ways: a confirmed bachelor | a confirmed teetotaller. "

confusing

"confusing | kənˈfjuːzɪŋ | adjective bewildering or perplexing: he found being in Egypt very confusing. "

embarrassing

"embarrassing | ɪmˈbarəsɪŋ, ɛmˈbarəsɪŋ | adjective causing embarrassment: an embarrassing muddle. "

frightened

"frightened | ˈfrʌɪtnd | adjective afraid or anxious: a frightened child | I'm not frightened of him. "

historically

"historically | hɪˈstɒrɪkli | adverb with reference to past events: a historically accurate picture of the time. • in the past: historically, government policy has favoured urban dwellers. "

invitations

"invitation | ɪnvɪˈteɪʃ(ə)n | noun a written or verbal request inviting someone to go somewhere or to do something: a wedding invitation. • the action of inviting someone to go somewhere or to do something: a club with membership by invitation only | a herb garden where guests can only go at the invitation of the chef. • a situation or action that tempts someone to do something or makes a particular outcome likely: tactics like those of the colonel would have been an invitation to disaster. ORIGIN late Middle English: from French, or from Latin invitatio(n-), from invitare (see invite)."

psychotic

"psychotic | sʌɪˈkɒtɪk | adjective relating to, denoting, or suffering from a psychosis: a psychotic disturbance. noun a person suffering from a psychosis. DERIVATIVES psychotically adverb "

reasoning

"reasoning | ˈriːz(ə)nɪŋ | noun the action of thinking about something in a logical, sensible way: he explained the reasoning behind his decision at a media conference. "

reconfigured

"reconfigure | riːkənˈfɪɡə | verb configure (something) differently: you don't have to reconfigure the modem each time you make a connection. DERIVATIVES reconfigurable adjective "

rectangles

"rectangle | ˈrɛktaŋɡ(ə)l | noun a plane figure with four straight sides and four right angles, especially one with unequal adjacent sides, in contrast to a square. ORIGIN late 16th century: from medieval Latin rectangulum, from late Latin rectiangulum, based on Latin rectus 'straight' + angulus 'an angle'."

regarding

"regarding | rɪˈɡɑːdɪŋ | preposition in respect of; concerning: your recent letter regarding the above proposal. "

suggestions

"suggestion | səˈdʒɛstʃ(ə)n | noun 1 an idea or plan put forward for consideration: here are some suggestions for tackling the problem. • the action of suggesting something: at my suggestion, the museum held an exhibition of his work. 2 something that implies or indicates a certain fact or situation: there is no suggestion that he was involved in any wrongdoing. • a slight indication of something: there was a suggestion of a smile on his lips. 3 the action of calling up an idea in someone's mind by associating it with other things: the power of suggestion. • Psychology the action of influencing a person to accept an idea or belief uncritically, especially as a technique in hypnosis. • Psychology an idea or belief accepted by a person as a result of suggestion. ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'an incitement to evil'): via Old French from Latin suggestio(n-), from the verb suggerere (see suggest)."

surrounding

"surrounding | səˈraʊndɪŋ | adjective all round a particular place or thing: Cardiff and the surrounding area. "

statistical

"statistical | stəˈtɪstɪk(ə)l | adjective relating to the use of statistics: a statistical comparison. "

strangely

"strangely | ˈstreɪndʒli | adverb in an unusual or surprising way: he started acting strangely towards me | the audience is strangely silent | : strangely, he felt more alert than he had in days. "

wastebasket

"wastebasket | ˈweɪs(t)bɑːskɪt | noun North American a waste-paper basket. "

wheelchair

"wheelchair | ˈwiːltʃɛː | noun a chair fitted with wheels for use as a means of transport by a person who is unable to walk as a result of illness, injury, or disability. "

willingly

"willingly | ˈwɪlɪŋli | adverb readily; of one's own free will: she went willingly. "

automatic

"automatic | ɔːtəˈmatɪk | adjective 1 (of a device or process) working by itself with little or no direct human control: an automatic kettle that switches itself off when it boils | calibration is fully automatic. • (of a firearm) self-loading and able to fire continuously until the ammunition is exhausted or the pressure on the trigger is released: automatic weapons. • (of a motor vehicle or its transmission) using gears that change by themselves according to speed and acceleration: a four-speed automatic gearbox. 2 done or occurring spontaneously, without conscious thought or attention: automatic physical functions such as breathing | 'Nice to meet you,' he said, with automatic politeness. • done or occurring as a matter of course and without debate: he is the automatic choice for the senior team. • (especially of a legal sanction) given or imposed as a necessary and inevitable result of a fixed rule or particular set of circumstances: he received an automatic one-match suspension. noun 1 a gun that continues firing until the ammunition is exhausted or the pressure on the trigger is released: the rapid fire of automatics. 2 a vehicle with automatic transmission: a Mercedes 300SL five-speed automatic. 3 a mode of operation in which a particular function of a piece of equipment is performed automatically rather than manually: the majority of users of this type of camera will shoot in automatic. DERIVATIVES automaticity | ɔːtəməˈtɪsɪti | noun ORIGIN mid 18th century: from Greek automatos 'acting of itself' (see automaton) + -ic."

beginning

"beginning | bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ | noun the point in time or space at which something begins: he left at the beginning of February | they had reached the beginning of the wood. • the first part or earliest stage of something: the ending of one relationship and the beginning of another | she had the beginnings of a headache. • (beginnings) the background or origins of a person or organization: he had risen from humble beginnings to great wealth. PHRASES the beginning of the end the first sign of the failure or end of something. "

broadcasts

"broadcast | ˈbrɔːdkɑːst | verb (past and past participle broadcast) 1 transmit (a programme or some information) by radio or television: the announcement was broadcast live. • take part in a radio or television transmission: they regularly broadcast on Radio 2. • tell (something) to many people: we don't want to broadcast our unhappiness to the world. 2 scatter (seeds) by hand or machine rather than placing in drills or rows: the second method is to broadcast the seeds together with not more than 1 kg to the acre of rapeseed. noun a radio or television programme or transmission: the Queen's annual Christmas TV broadcast. adjective relating to radio or television programmes: a broadcast journalist. adverb by scattering: green manures can be sown broadcast or in rows. ORIGIN mid 18th century (in the sense 'sown by scattering'): from broad + the past participle of cast1. Senses relating to radio and television date from the early 20th century."

bureaucratic

"bureaucratic | ˌbjɔːrəˈkratɪk, ˌbjʊərəˈkratɪk | adjective relating to a system of government in which most of the important decisions are taken by state officials rather than by elected representatives: well-established bureaucratic procedures. • over-concerned with procedure at the expense of efficiency or common sense: the scheme is overly bureaucratic and complex. DERIVATIVES bureaucratically | ˌbjʊərəˈkratɪk(ə)li | adverb "

calculate

"calculate | ˈkalkjʊleɪt | verb 1 determine (the amount or number of something) mathematically: the program can calculate the number of words that will fit in the space available | : local authorities have calculated that full training would cost around £5,000 per teacher. • determine by reasoning, experience, or common sense; reckon or judge: I was bright enough to calculate that she had been on vacation. • (calculate on) include as an essential element in one's plans. 2 (usually be calculated to do something) intend (an action) to have a particular effect: his last words were calculated to wound her. 3 US dialect suppose or believe: I calculate it's pretty difficult to git edication down there. DERIVATIVES calculative | ˈkalkjʊlətɪv | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from late Latin calculat- 'counted', from the verb calculare, from calculus 'a small pebble (as used on an abacus)'."

cartridge

"cartridge | ˈkɑːtrɪdʒ | noun a container holding a spool of photographic film, a quantity of ink, etc., designed for insertion into a mechanism. • a casing containing a charge and a bullet or shot for small arms or an explosive charge for blasting. • a component carrying the stylus on the pickup head of a record player. ORIGIN late 16th century: from French cartouche (feminine noun), from Italian cartoccio (see cartouche)."

celebrity

"celebrity | sɪˈlɛbrɪti | noun (plural celebrities) a famous person, especially in entertainment or sport: he became a sporting celebrity | : a celebrity chef. • the state of being well known: his prestige and celebrity grew. ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'solemn ceremony'): from Old French celebrite or Latin celebritas, from celeber, celebr- 'frequented or honoured'."

challenge

"challenge | ˈtʃalɪn(d)ʒ | noun 1 a call to someone to participate in a competitive situation or fight to decide who is superior in terms of ability or strength: he accepted the challenge. • a task or situation that tests someone's abilities: the traverse of the ridge is a challenge for experienced climbers | he took up the challenge of organizing a sports afternoon. • an attempt to win a contest or championship in a sport: he is desperate for a third world title challenge. 2 a call to prove or justify something: a challenge to the legality of the banning order. • a guard's call for a password or other proof of identity: I heard the challenge 'Who goes there?'. • Law an objection regarding the eligibility or suitability of a jury member. 3 Medicine exposure of the immune system to pathogenic organisms or antigens: recently vaccinated calves should be protected from challenge. verb 1 dispute the truth or validity of: it is possible to challenge the report's assumptions. • Law object to (a jury member): a certain number of jurors may be challenged. • (of a guard) order (someone) to prove their identity: the watchman did not challenge him. 2 invite (someone) to engage in a contest: he challenged one of my men to a duel | organizations challenged the government in by-elections. • enter into competition with or opposition against. • make a rival claim to or threaten someone's hold on (a position): they were challenging his leadership. • invite (someone) to do or say something that one thinks will be difficult or impossible: I challenge the Minister to deny these accusations. • make demands on; prove testing to: a new way of life that would challenge them. 3 Medicine expose (the immune system) to pathogenic organisms or antigens. DERIVATIVES challengeable | ˈtʃalɪndʒəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English (in the senses 'accusation' and 'accuse'): from Old French chalenge (noun), chalenger (verb), from Latin calumnia 'calumny', calumniari 'calumniate'."

characters

"character | ˈkarəktə | noun 1 the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual: running away was not in keeping with her character. • the distinctive nature of something: gas lamps give the area its character. • the quality of being individual in an interesting or unusual way: the island is full of character. • strength and originality in a person's nature: she had character as well as beauty. • a person's good reputation: to what do I owe this attack on my character? • dated a written statement of someone's good qualities; a testimonial: you are dismissed without a character. 2 a person in a novel, play, or film: the author's compassionate identification with his characters. • a part played by an actor: the actor's TV character is often on the wrong side of the law. • a person seen in terms of a particular aspect of character: he was a larger-than-life character | shady characters. • informal an unusual or amusing person: she's a right character with a will of her own. 3 a printed or written letter or symbol. • Computing a symbol representing a letter or number. 4 mainly Biology a characteristic, especially one that assists in the identification of a species. verb archaic inscribe or write (something). • describe: you have well charactered him. PHRASES in (or out of) character in keeping (or not in keeping) with someone's usual pattern of behaviour and motives: his outburst was entirely in character. DERIVATIVES characterless | ˈkarəktələs | adjective ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French caractere, via Latin from Greek kharaktēr 'a stamping tool'. From the early sense 'distinctive mark' arose 'token, feature, or trait' (early 16th century), and from this 'a description, especially of a person's qualities', giving rise to 'distinguishing qualities'."

cheerleader

"cheerleader | ˈtʃɪəliːdə | noun a member of a team that performs organized cheering, chanting, and dancing in support of a sports team at matches. • an enthusiastic and vocal supporter of someone or something: he was a cheerleader for individual initiative. DERIVATIVES cheerlead verb (past and past participle cheerled) "

chemicals

"chemical | ˈkɛmɪk(ə)l | adjective relating to chemistry, or the interactions of substances as studied in chemistry: the chemical composition of the atmosphere. • relating to chemicals: chemical treatments for killing fungi. • relating to or denoting the use of poison gas or other chemicals as weapons of war. noun a distinct compound or substance, especially one which has been artificially prepared or purified: never mix disinfectant with other chemicals. • an addictive drug: : chemical dependency. ORIGIN late 16th century: from French chimique or modern Latin chimicus, chymicus, from medieval Latin alchymicus, from alchimia (see alchemy)."

cigarette

"cigarette | sɪɡəˈrɛt | (US also cigaret) noun a thin cylinder of finely cut tobacco rolled in paper for smoking. • an object similar to a cigarette containing a narcotic or herbal substance. ORIGIN mid 19th century: from French, diminutive of cigare (see cigar)."

circumflex

"circumflex | ˈsəːkəmflɛks | noun (also circumflex accent) a mark (^) placed over a vowel in some languages to indicate contraction, length, or a particular quality. adjective Anatomy bending round something else; curved: circumflex coronary arteries. ORIGIN late 16th century: from Latin circumflexus (from circum 'around, about' + flectere 'to bend'), translating Greek perispōmenos 'drawn around'."

colleague

"colleague | ˈkɒliːɡ | noun a person with whom one works in a profession or business. ORIGIN early 16th century: from French collègue, from Latin collega 'partner in office', from col- 'together with' + legare 'depute'."

collecting

"collect1 | kəˈlɛkt | verb 1 bring or gather together (a number of things): he went round the office collecting old coffee cups. • come together and form a group: a small crowd collected at the back door. • systematically seek and acquire (items of a particular kind) as a hobby: I've started collecting stamps. • accumulate over a period of time: collect rainwater to use on the garden. 2 call for and take away; fetch: the children were collected from school. • call for and obtain (payments) from a number of people: he collected their rent each week. • go somewhere and receive (something) as a right or award: she came to Oxford to collect her honorary degree. • ask for and receive (charitable donations): they were collecting money for the war effort. 3 (collect oneself) regain control of oneself, typically after a shock: he paused for a moment to take a breath, to collect himself. • concentrate (one's thoughts): she returned to her room to collect her thoughts. 4 archaic conclude; infer: : by all best conjectures, I collect Thou art to be my fatal enemy. 5 cause (a horse) to bring its hind legs further forward as it moves: a rider should want to be able to collect a horse when hacking. 6 Australian/NZ informal collide with: he lost control of the truck and collected two cats. adjective North American (of a telephone call) paid for by the person receiving it: a collect call. adverb North American (with reference to making a telephone call) in a way that is paid for by the person receiving it: I called my mother collect. noun Australian/NZ informal a winning bet. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French collecter or medieval Latin collectare, from Latin collect- 'gathered together', from the verb colligere, from col- 'together' + legere 'choose or collect'."

combatant

"combatant | ˈkɒmbət(ə)nt, ˈkʌmbət(ə)nt | noun a person or nation engaged in fighting during a war: in the long Russo-Swedish conflict, both combatants endured terrible sacrifices. • a person engaged in conflict or competition with another: a long-time combatant for the control of Newcastle FC. adjective engaged in fighting during a war: all the combatant armies went to war with machine guns. ORIGIN late Middle English (as an adjective used in heraldry to describe two lions facing one another with raised forepaws): from Old French, present participle of combatre 'to fight' (see combat)."

combination

"combination | kɒmbɪˈneɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a joining or merging of different parts or qualities in which the component elements are individually distinct: a magnificent combination of drama, dance, and music | the combination of recession and falling property values proved fatal to the business community | this colour combination is stunningly effective. • the process of combining different parts or qualities or the state of being combined: these four factors work together in combination. • a particular arrangement of different elements: the canvases may be arranged in any number of combinations. • (in sport) a coordinated and effective sequence of moves: a good uppercut/hook combination. • denoting an object or process that unites different uses, functions, or ingredients: combination remedies contain painkiller, decongestant, and cough soother. • Chemistry the joining of substances in a compound with new properties. 2 a sequence of numbers or letters used to open a combination lock: underneath the picture is a safe: the combination is 210319. 3 British a motorcycle with a sidecar attached. 4 (combinations) British dated a single undergarment covering the body and legs: woollen combinations. 5 Mathematics a selection of a given number of elements from a larger number without regard to their arrangement. DERIVATIVES combinational adjective combinative | ˈkɒmbɪnətɪv | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from late Latin combinatio(n-), from the verb combinare 'join two by two' (see combine1)."

commercial

"commercial | kəˈməːʃ(ə)l | adjective 1 concerned with or engaged in commerce: a commercial agreement. 2 making or intended to make a profit: commercial products. • having profit rather than artistic or other value as a primary aim: their work is too commercial. 3 (of television or radio) funded by the revenue from broadcast advertisements. 4 (of chemicals) supplied in bulk and not of the highest purity. noun 1 a television or radio advertisement: they looked like a family from a breakfast cereal commercial. 2 British dated a travelling sales representative. DERIVATIVES commerciality | kəməːʃɪˈalɪti | noun "

communicated

"communicate | kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt | verb 1 share or exchange information, news, or ideas: the prisoner was forbidden to communicate with his family. • impart or pass on (information, news, or ideas): he communicated his findings to the inspector. • convey or transmit (an emotion or feeling) in a non-verbal way: the ability of good teachers to communicate their own enthusiasm | his sudden fear communicated itself. • succeed in conveying one's ideas or in evoking understanding in others: a politician must have the ability to communicate. • (of two people) be able to share and understand each other's thoughts and feelings: we don't seem to be communicating—we need a break from each other. 2 pass on (an infectious disease) to another person or animal: the disease is communicated from one person to another. • transmit (heat or motion): the heat is communicated through a small brass grating. 3 (of two rooms) have a common connecting door: the dining room communicates with the kitchen | (as adjective communicating) : he went into the communicating room to pick up the phone. 4 receive Holy Communion: orthodox policy is to communicate in both kinds (i.e. both bread and wine). ORIGIN early 16th century: from Latin communicat- 'shared', from the verb communicare, from communis (see common)."

community

"community | kəˈmjuːnɪti | noun (plural communities) 1 a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common: Montreal's Italian community | the gay community in London | the scientific community. • a group of people living together and practising common ownership: a community of nuns. • a particular area or place considered together with its inhabitants: a rural community | local communities. • a body of nations or states unified by common interests: : the European Community. • (the community) the people of a district or country considered collectively, especially in the context of social values and responsibilities; society: preparing prisoners for life back in the community. • denoting a worker or resource designed to serve the people of a particular area: community health services. 2 the condition of sharing or having certain attitudes and interests in common: the sense of community that organized religion can provide. • a similarity or identity: the law presupposes a community of interest between an employer and employees. • joint ownership or liability: the community of goods. 3 Ecology a group of interdependent plants or animals growing or living together in natural conditions or occupying a specified habitat: communities of insectivorous birds. PHRASES the international community the countries of the world considered collectively: the policy led to widespread condemnation from the international community. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French comunete, reinforced by its source, Latin communitas, from communis (see common)."

comparison

"comparison | kəmˈparɪs(ə)n | noun 1 a consideration or estimate of the similarities or dissimilarities between two things or people: they drew a comparison between Gandhi's teaching and that of other teachers | : the two books invite comparison with one another. • an analogy: perhaps the best comparison is that of seasickness. • the quality of being similar or equivalent: when it comes to achievements this season, there's no comparison between Linfield and Bangor. 2 Grammar the formation of the comparative and superlative forms of adjectives and adverbs. PHRASES bear (or stand) comparison be of sufficient quality to be likened favourably to someone or something of the same kind: our pupils' results will bear comparison with any in Scotland. beyond comparison surpassing all others of the same kind: their spa services are fantastic and beyond comparison. in (or by) comparison when compared: the Prime Minister's support staff is tiny in comparison with that of a US President. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French comparesoun, from Latin comparatio(n-), from comparare 'to pair, match' (see compare)."

compelling

"compelling | kəmˈpɛlɪŋ | adjective evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way: his eyes were strangely compelling | a compelling film. • not able to be refuted; inspiring conviction: there is compelling evidence that the recession is ending | a compelling argument. • not able to be resisted; overwhelming: the temptation to give up was compelling. "

competition

"competition | kɒmpɪˈtɪʃ(ə)n | noun the activity or condition of striving to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others: there is fierce competition between banks | the competition for university places is greater than ever this year. • an event or contest in which people take part in order to establish superiority or supremacy in a particular area: a beauty competition. • the person or people over whom one is attempting to establish one's supremacy or superiority; the opposition: I walked round to check out the competition. • Ecology interaction between animal or plant species, or individual organisms, that are attempting to gain a share of a limited environmental resource: competition with ungulates or condylarths appears to have been the undoing of marsupials in North America. ORIGIN early 17th century: from late Latin competitio(n-) 'rivalry', from competere 'strive for' (see compete)."

complained

"complain | kəmˈpleɪn | verb 1 express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something: : local authorities complained that they lacked sufficient resources | : 'You never listen to me,' Larry complained | : we all complained bitterly about the food. 2 (complain of) state that one is suffering from (a pain or other symptom of illness): her husband began to complain of headaches. 3 (of a structure or mechanism) groan or creak under strain. • literary make a mournful sound: let the warbling flute complain. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French complaindre, from medieval Latin complangere 'bewail', from Latin com- (expressing intensive force) + plangere 'to lament'."

complexly

"complex | ˈkɒmplɛks | adjective 1 consisting of many different and connected parts: a complex network of water channels. • not easy to analyse or understand; complicated or intricate: a complex personality | the situation is more complex than it appears. 2 Mathematics denoting or involving numbers or quantities containing both a real and an imaginary part. 3 Chemistry denoting an ion or molecule in which one or more groups are linked to a metal atom by coordinate bonds: in naming complex ions, the names of the ligands are cited first. noun 1 a group or system of different things that are linked in a close or complicated way; a network: a complex of mountain roads. • a group of similar buildings or facilities on the same site: a leisure complex | a complex of hotels. 2 Psychoanalysis a related group of repressed or partly repressed emotionally significant ideas which cause psychic conflict leading to abnormal mental states or behaviour. • informal a strong or disproportionate concern or anxiety about something: there's no point having a complex about losing your hair. 3 Chemistry an ion or molecule in which one or more groups are linked to a metal atom by coordinate bonds: two guanine bases can attach themselves to the same platinum atom, forming a stable complex. • any loosely bonded species formed by the association of two molecules: cross-linked protein-DNA complexes. verb Chemistry make (an atom or compound) form a complex with another: the DNA was complexed with the nuclear extract. DERIVATIVES complexly adverb ORIGIN mid 17th century (in the sense 'group of related elements'): from Latin complexus, past participle (used as a noun) of complectere 'embrace, comprise', later associated with complexus 'plaited'; the adjective is partly via French complexe."

composition

"composition | kɒmpəˈzɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the nature of something's ingredients or constituents; the way in which a whole or mixture is made up: the social composition of villages. • the action of putting things together; formation or construction: the composition of a new government was announced in November. • a thing composed of various elements: a theory is a composition of interrelated facts. • archaic mental constitution; character: persons who have a touch of madness in their composition. • a compound artificial substance or material: composition tiles. • Mathematics the successive application of functions to a variable, the value of the first function being the argument of the second, and so on: composition of functions, when defined, is associative. • Physics the process of finding the resultant of a number of forces: the composition of forces. 2 a creative work, especially a poem or piece of music: Chopin's most romantic compositions. • the action or art of producing a creative work such as a poem or piece of music: the technical aspects of composition. • an essay, especially one written by a school or college student: we had a class composition, 'My Best Friend'. • the artistic arrangement of the parts of a picture: none of the other photographs shared this particular composition. 3 the preparation of text for printing by setting up characters or by establishing its style and appearance electronically: an external contractor providing computerized composition and typesetting. 4 a legal agreement to pay a sum in lieu of a larger debt or other obligation: he had been released by deed on making a composition with the creditors. • a sum paid in lieu of a larger debt: Royalists redeemed their sequestrated estates by paying compositions. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin compositio(n-), from componere 'put together'."

compromised

"compromise | ˈkɒmprəmʌɪz | noun 1 an agreement or settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions: eventually they reached a compromise | : the secret of a happy marriage is compromise. • an intermediate state between conflicting alternatives reached by mutual concession: a compromise between the freedom of the individual and the need to ensure orderly government. 2 the expedient acceptance of standards that are lower than is desirable: sexism should be tackled without compromise. verb 1 settle a dispute by mutual concession: in the end we compromised and deferred the issue. 2 expediently accept standards that are lower than is desirable: we were not prepared to compromise on safety. • weaken or harm by accepting standards that are lower than is desirable: he won't accept any decisions which compromise his principles. 3 bring into disrepute or danger by indiscreet, foolish, or reckless behaviour: situations in which his troops could be compromised. • cause to become vulnerable or function less effectively: yo-yo dieting can compromise your immune system | last month's leak of source code will not compromise your IT security. DERIVATIVES compromiser noun ORIGIN late Middle English (denoting mutual consent to arbitration): from Old French compromis, from late Latin compromissum 'a consent to arbitration', neuter past participle of compromittere, from com- 'together' + promittere (see promise)."

concentrating

"concentrate | ˈkɒns(ə)ntreɪt | verb 1 focus all one's attention on a particular object or activity: she couldn't concentrate on the film | : a threatened tax rise concentrates the mind wonderfully. • (concentrate on/upon) do or deal with (one particular thing) above all others: Luke wants to concentrate on his film career. 2 gather (people or things) together in a common location: the nation's wealth was concentrated in the hands of the governing elite. • come together in a common location: troops were concentrating at the western front. 3 increase the strength or proportion of (a substance or solution) by removing or reducing the other diluting agent or by selective accumulation of atoms or molecules: plants and microorganisms can concentrate metals from the environment. noun a substance made by removing or reducing the diluting agent; a concentrated form of something: apple juice concentrate. DERIVATIVES concentrative | ˈkɒns(ə)ntreɪtɪv | adjective concentrator | ˈkɒns(ə)ntreɪtə | noun ORIGIN mid 17th century (in the sense 'bring towards a centre'): Latinized form of concentre, or from French concentrer 'to concentrate'. concentrate (sense 1 of the verb) dates from the early 20th century."

confidence

"confidence | ˈkɒnfɪd(ə)ns | noun 1 the feeling or belief that one can have faith in or rely on someone or something: we had every confidence in the staff | he had gained the young man's confidence. • the state of feeling certain about the truth of something: I can say with confidence that I have never before driven up this street. • a feeling of self-assurance arising from an appreciation of one's own abilities or qualities: she's brimming with confidence | : he would walk up those steps with a confidence he didn't feel. 2 the telling of private matters or secrets with mutual trust: someone with whom you may raise your suspicions in confidence. • (often confidences) a secret or private matter told to someone under a condition of trust: the girls exchanged confidences about their parents. PHRASES have every confidence in feel that one can rely on or trust (someone): we had every confidence in the staff. in someone's confidence in a position of trust with someone: she was never fully in his confidence. take someone into one's confidence tell someone one's secrets: she took me into her confidence and told me about her problems. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin confidentia, from confidere 'have full trust' (see confident)."

consciously

"consciously | ˈkɒnʃəsli | adverb in a deliberate and intentional way: she consciously chose to ignore him | a vicious and consciously dishonest hatchet job. • in a way that is directly perceptible to and under the control of the person concerned: most players don't think consciously about a throw | we don't consciously perceive everything that happens to us. "

consequence

"consequence | ˈkɒnsɪkw(ə)ns | noun 1 a result or effect, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant: abrupt withdrawal of drug treatment can have serious consequences | many have been laid off from work as a consequence of government policies. 2 importance or relevance: the past is of no consequence. • dated social distinction: a woman of consequence. 3 (consequences) a game in which a narrative is made up by the players in turn, each ignorant of what has already been contributed. PHRASES in consequence as a result: he died in consequence of injuries sustained. bear the consequences (also take the consequences) accept responsibility for the negative results or effects of one's choice or action: you acted on your own initiative, and you will bear the consequences. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin consequentia, from consequent- 'following closely', from the verb consequi."

considering

"considering | kənˈsɪd(ə)rɪŋ | preposition & conjunction taking into consideration: : considering the circumstances, Simon was remarkably phlegmatic | : considering that he was the youngest on the field he played well. adverb informal taking everything into account: they weren't feeling too bad, considering. "

consistent

"consistent | kənˈsɪst(ə)nt | adjective 1 acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate: the parents are being consistent and firm in their reactions | a consistent worldwide application of its policies. • unchanging in nature, standard, or effect over time: he is their most consistent player this season | the mixtures are of consistent quality. 2 (of an argument or set of ideas) not containing any logical contradictions: a consistent explanation. 3 compatible or in agreement with something: the injuries are consistent with falling from a great height. ORIGIN late 16th century (in the sense 'consisting or composed of'): from Latin consistent- 'standing firm or still, existing', from the verb consistere (see consist)."

construction

"construction | kənˈstrʌkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of building something, typically a large structure: there was a skyscraper under construction. • the industry of constructing buildings, roads, etc.: 50,000 more jobs will go from construction. • the style or method used in the building of something: the mill is of brick construction. • a building or other structure: the central waterway was a spectacular construction. 2 the creation of an abstract entity: language plays a large part in our construction of reality. • an interpretation or explanation: you could put an honest construction upon their conduct. • Grammar the arrangement of words according to syntactical rules: sentence construction. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin constructio(n-), from construere 'heap together' (see construct)."

consumers

"consumer | kənˈsjuːmə | noun a person who purchases goods and services for personal use: recession-hit consumers are being lured by cheap prices | : consumer demand. • a person or thing that eats or uses something: Scandinavians are the largest consumers of rye. "

continent

"continent1 | ˈkɒntɪnənt | noun any of the world's main continuous expanses of land (Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, Australia, Antarctica). • (also the Continent) the mainland of Europe as distinct from the British Isles: clubs sprang up in Britain and on the Continent. • archaic a mainland contrasted with islands. ORIGIN mid 16th century (denoting a continuous tract of land): from Latin terra continens 'continuous land'."

convention

"convention | kənˈvɛnʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a way in which something is usually done: to attract the best patrons the movie houses had to ape the conventions and the standards of theatres. • behaviour that is considered acceptable or polite to most members of a society: he was an upholder of convention and correct form | : the law is felt to express social conventions. 2 an agreement between states covering particular matters, especially one less formal than a treaty: the convention, signed by the six states bordering on the Black Sea, aims to prevent further pollution. 3 a large meeting or conference, especially of members of a political party or a particular profession or group: the party held its biennial convention. • North American an assembly of the delegates of a political party to select candidates for office. • a body set up by agreement to deal with a particular issue: the convention is a UN body responsible for the regulation of sea dumping. • historical a meeting of Parliament without a summons from the sovereign. 4 Bridge a bid or system of bidding by which the bidder tries to convey specific information about the hand to their partner, as opposed to seeking to win the auction. ORIGIN late Middle English (in convention (sense 3)): via Old French from Latin conventio(n-) 'meeting, covenant', from the verb convenire (see convene). convention (sense 1) dates from the late 18th century."

conversations

"conversation | kɒnvəˈseɪʃ(ə)n | noun a talk, especially an informal one, between two or more people, in which news and ideas are exchanged: she picked up the phone and held a conversation in French | : the two men were deep in conversation. PHRASES make conversation talk for the sake of politeness without having anything to say: we sat together, trying somewhat stiltedly to make conversation. ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'living among, familiarity, intimacy'): via Old French from Latin conversatio(n-), from the verb conversari (see converse1)."

converted

"converted | kənˈvəːtɪd | adjective (of a building) having been adapted to be suitable for a new purpose: a converted Victorian property. "

convinced

"convinced | kənˈvɪnst | adjective completely certain about something: she was not entirely convinced of the soundness of his motives | : I am convinced the war will be over in a matter of months. • firm in one's belief with regard to a particular cause or issue: a convinced pacifist. "

corporate

"corporate | ˈkɔːp(ə)rət | adjective relating to a large company or group: airlines are very keen on their corporate identity. • Law (of a large company or group) authorized to act as a single entity and recognized as such in law: local authorities, like other corporate bodies, may reduce capital spending | the rules set by the corporate organization. • of or shared by all the members of a group: the service emphasizes the corporate responsibility of the congregation. noun a corporate company or group. DERIVATIVES corporately adverb ORIGIN late 15th century: from Latin corporatus, past participle of corporare 'form into a body', from corpus, corpor- 'body'."

counselors

"counsellor | ˈkaʊns(ə)lə | (US counselor) noun 1 a person trained to give guidance on personal or psychological problems: a marriage counsellor. • a person who gives advice on a specified subject: a debt counsellor. 2 a senior officer in the diplomatic service: a counsellor at the Russian embassy. 3 (also counselor-at-law) US & Irish a barrister. 4 North American a supervisor at a children's summer camp. ORIGIN Middle English (in the general sense 'adviser'): from Old French conseiller, from Latin consiliarius, and Old French conseillour, from Latin consiliator, both from consilium 'consultation or advice'. USAGE The words counsellor and councillor are often confused. A counsellor is a person who gives advice or counsel, especially on personal problems ( a marriage counsellor), whereas a councillor is a member of a city, county, or other council ( she stood as a Labour candidate for city councillor)."

crocodiles

"crocodile | ˈkrɒkədʌɪl | noun 1 a large predatory semiaquatic reptile with long jaws, long tail, short legs, and a horny textured skin. Family Crocodylidae: three genera, in particular Crocodylus, and several species. • leather made from crocodile skin, used especially to make bags and shoes. 2 British informal a line of schoolchildren walking in pairs. ORIGIN Middle English cocodrille, cokadrill, from Old French cocodrille, via medieval Latin from Latin crocodilus, from Greek krokodilos 'worm of the stones', from krokē 'pebble' + drilos 'worm'. The spelling was changed in the 16th century to conform with the Latin and Greek forms."

custodial

"custodial | kʌˈstəʊdɪəl | adjective 1 relating to or requiring imprisonment: a light custodial sentence. 2 Law relating to or having parental responsibility, especially as allocated as part of a divorce: the request by a custodial parent to relocate. "

definition

"definition | dɛfɪˈnɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a statement of the exact meaning of a word, especially in a dictionary: a dictionary definition of the verb. • an exact statement or description of the nature, scope, or meaning of something: our definition of what constitutes poetry. • the action or process of defining something: a question of definition | issues of methodology and definition. 2 the degree of distinctness in outline of an object, image, or sound: the clarity and definition of pictures can be aided by using computer graphics. • the capacity of a device to make images distinct in outline: we've been pleased with the definition of this TV. PHRASES by definition by its very nature; intrinsically: the assumption is that travel will, by definition, lead to creative insight. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin definitio(n-), from the verb definire 'set bounds to' (see define)."

deliberate

"deliberate adjective | dɪˈlɪb(ə)rət | 1 done consciously and intentionally: a deliberate attempt to provoke conflict. 2 careful and unhurried: a conscientious and deliberate worker. • fully considered; not impulsive: a deliberate decision. verb | dɪˈlɪbəreɪt | engage in long and careful consideration: she deliberated over the menu. • consider (a question) carefully: jurors deliberated the fate of those charged | : they deliberated what they should do with him. DERIVATIVES deliberateness | dəˈlɪbərətnəs | noun deliberator | dɪˈlɪbəreɪtə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English (as an adjective): from Latin deliberatus, 'considered carefully', past participle of deliberare, from de- 'down' + librare 'weigh' (from libra 'scales')."

delivering

"deliver | dɪˈlɪvə | verb 1 bring and hand over (a letter, parcel, or goods) to the proper recipient or address: the products should be delivered on time | : we'll deliver direct to your door. 2 provide (something promised or expected): he had been able to deliver votes in huge numbers | : she's waiting for him to deliver on his promise. • formally hand over (someone): there was a reward if you were delivered unharmed to the nearest British post. • (deliver someone/something up) surrender someone or something: had he feared she would deliver him up to the police? • Law acknowledge that one intends to be bound by (a deed), either explicitly by declaration or implicitly by formal handover. 3 launch or aim (a blow, ball, or attack): he delivered a punch to the man's belly | figurative : the company has delivered a body blow to this city. • state in a formal manner: he will deliver a lecture on endangered species | he delivered himself of a sermon. • (of a judge or court) give (a judgement or verdict): the court was due to deliver its verdict. 4 assist in the birth of: the village midwife delivered the baby. • give birth to: the number of women delivering their babies in hospitals increased. • archaic or formal assist (a woman) in giving birth: Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge was safely delivered of a son at 4.24 p.m. 5 (deliver someone/something from) save, rescue, or set someone or something free from: deliver us from the nightmare of junk mail. PHRASES deliver the goods informal provide that which is promised or expected: the command economy can't deliver the goods. DERIVATIVES deliverer | dɪˈlɪvərə | noun deliveree noun ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French delivrer, based on Latin de- 'away' + liberare 'set free'."

departure

"departure | dɪˈpɑːtʃə | noun the action of leaving, especially to start a journey: the day of departure | : she made a hasty departure. • a deviation from an accepted, prescribed, or usual course of action: the album is not a radical departure from the band's previous work. • Nautical the amount of a ship's change of longitude. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French departeure, from the verb departir (see depart)."

depending

"depend | dɪˈpɛnd | verb 1 (depend on/upon) be controlled or determined by: differences in earnings depended on a wide variety of factors. 2 (depend on/upon) be able to trust; rely on: we can depend on her to deliver a quality product. • need for financial or other support: a town which had depended heavily upon the wool industry. • be grammatically dependent on. 3 archaic or literary hang down: his tongue depended from open jaws. PHRASES depending on according to: makes 8-10 burgers (depending on size). it depends (also that depends) used to express uncertainty in answering a question: It depends. There could be, and there could not be | How many people use each screen? It all depends. ORIGIN late Middle English (in depend (sense 3); also in the sense 'wait or be in suspense'): from Old French dependre, from Latin dependere, from de- 'down' + pendere 'hang'. USAGE In informal use, it is quite common for the on to be dropped in sentences such as it all depends how you look at it (rather than it all depends on how you look at it), but in well-formed written English the on should be retained."

depressed

"depressed | dɪˈprɛst | adjective 1 (of a person) in a state of unhappiness or despondency: she felt lonely and depressed. • (of a person) suffering from clinical depression. 2 (of a place or economic activity) suffering the damaging effects of a lack of demand or employment: depressed inner-city areas. 3 (of an object or part of an object) in a lower position, having been pushed down: a depressed fracture of the skull. "

depressions

"depression | dɪˈprɛʃ(ə)n | noun 1 feelings of severe despondency and dejection: self-doubt creeps in and that swiftly turns to depression. • Psychiatry a mental condition characterized by feelings of severe despondency and dejection, typically also with feelings of inadequacy and guilt, often accompanied by lack of energy and disturbance of appetite and sleep: she was referred by a psychiatrist treating her for depression. 2 a long and severe recession in an economy or market: the depression in the housing market. • (the Depression or the Great Depression) the financial and industrial slump of 1929 and subsequent years. 3 the action of lowering something or pressing something down: depression of the plunger delivers two units of insulin. • a sunken place or hollow on a surface: the original shallow depressions were slowly converted to creeks. 4 Meteorology a region of lower atmospheric pressure, especially a cyclonic weather system: hurricanes start off as loose regions of bad weather known as tropical depressions. 5 Astronomy & Geography the angular distance of an object below the horizon or a horizontal plane. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin depressio(n-), from deprimere 'press down' (see depress)."

descending

"descending | dɪˈsɛndɪŋ | adjective moving or sloping downwards: a rocky descending path. • moving down a scale of quality: the categories are listed in descending order of usefulness. • (of sound) becoming lower in pitch: a passage of descending chords. "

describing

"describe | dɪˈskrʌɪb | verb 1 give a detailed account in words of: he described his experiences in a letter to his parents | the man was described as tall, clean-shaven, and with short dark hair. 2 mark out or draw (a geometrical figure): on the diameter of a circle an equilateral triangle is described. • move in a way which follows the outline of (an imaginary geometrical figure): a single light is seen to describe a circle. DERIVATIVES describable | dɪˈskrʌɪbəb(ə)l | adjective describer | dɪˈskrʌɪbə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin describere, from de- 'down' + scribere 'write'."

descriptive

"descriptive | dɪˈskrɪptɪv | adjective 1 serving or seeking to describe: the text contains some good descriptive passages. • Grammar (of an adjective) assigning a quality rather than restricting the application of the expression modified, e.g. blue as distinct from few. 2 describing or classifying in an objective and non-judgemental way. • Linguistics describing accents, forms, structures, and usage without making value judgements. Often contrasted with prescriptive. DERIVATIVES descriptively | dɪˈskrɪptɪvli | adverb descriptiveness noun ORIGIN mid 18th century: from late Latin descriptivus, from descript- 'written down', from the verb describere (see describe)."

desperation

"desperation | dɛspəˈreɪʃn | noun a state of despair, typically one which results in rash or extreme behaviour: she wrote to him in desperation. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin desperatio(n-), from the verb desperare (see despair)."

determine

"determine | dɪˈtəːmɪn | verb 1 cause (something) to occur in a particular way or to have a particular nature: it will be her mental attitude that determines her future. 2 ascertain or establish exactly by research or calculation: the inquest is entrusted with the task of determining the cause of death | : the point of our study was to determine what is true, not what is practicable. • Mathematics specify the value, position, or form of (a mathematical or geometrical object) uniquely. 3 firmly decide: he determined on a withdrawal of his forces | : she determined to tackle Stephen the next day | : my wife had determined that I must swap my old bike for a car. 4 Law, archaic bring or come to an end. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French determiner, from Latin determinare 'limit, fix', from de- 'completely' + terminare 'terminate'."

developed

"developed | dɪˈvɛləpt | adjective advanced or elaborated to a specified degree: a fully developed system of public law. • (of a person or part of the body) having specified physical proportions: a strongman with well-developed muscles. • (of a country or region) advanced economically and socially: the developed world. "

different

"different | ˈdɪf(ə)r(ə)nt | adjective 1 not the same as another or each other; unlike in nature, form, or quality: you can play this game in different ways | the car is different from anything else on the market. • informal novel and unusual: try something deliciously different. 2 distinct; separate: on two different occasions. PHRASES different strokes for different folks proverb different things appeal to different people. DERIVATIVES differentness noun ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin different- 'carrying away, differing', from the verb differre (see differ). USAGE Different from, different than, and different to: are there any distinctions between these three constructions, and is one more correct than the others? In practice, different from is both the most common structure, both in British and US English, and the most accepted. Different than is used chiefly in North America, although its use is increasing in British English. It has the advantage that it can be followed by a clause, and so is sometimes more concise than different from: compare things are definitely different than they were one year ago with things are definitely different from the way they were one year ago. Different to is common in Britain, but is disliked by traditionalists. The argument against it is based on the relation of different to differ, which is used with from; but this is a flawed argument which is contradicted by other pairs of words such as accord (with) and according (to)."

difficult

"difficult | ˈdɪfɪk(ə)lt | adjective needing much effort or skill to accomplish, deal with, or understand: she had a difficult decision to make | the questions are too difficult for the children. • characterized by or causing hardships or problems: a difficult economic climate. • (of a person) not easy to please or satisfy; awkward: Lily could be difficult. DERIVATIVES difficultness noun ORIGIN late Middle English: back-formation from difficulty."

directions

"direction | dɪˈrɛkʃ(ə)n, dʌɪˈrɛkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a course along which someone or something moves: she set off in the opposite direction | : he had a terrible sense of direction. • the course which must be taken in order to reach a destination: the village is over the moors in a northerly direction. • a point to or from which a person or thing moves or faces: a house with views in all directions. • a general way in which someone or something is developing; a trend or tendency: new directions in painting and architecture | any dialogue between them is a step in the right direction. • general aim or purpose: the campaign's lack of direction. 2 the management or guidance of someone or something: under his direction, the college has developed an international reputation. • the work of directing the actors and other staff in a film, play, or other production. • (directions) instructions on how to reach a destination or about how to do something: Preston gave him directions to a restaurant not far from the studio. PHRASES sense of direction a person's ability to know without explicit guidance the direction in which they are or should be moving. ORIGIN late Middle English (in direction (sense 2)): from Latin directio(n-), from the verb dirigere (see direct)."

directors

"director | dɪˈrɛktə, dʌɪˈrɛktə | noun a person who is in charge of an activity, department, or organization: the sales director. • a member of the board of people that manages or oversees the affairs of a business. • a person who supervises the actors and other staff in a film, play, or similar production. • short for musical director. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French directour, from late Latin director 'governor', from dirigere 'to guide'."

disappeared

"disappear | dɪsəˈpɪə | verb cease to be visible: he disappeared into the trees | the sun had disappeared. • cease to exist or be in use: the tension had completely disappeared. • be lost or go missing; become impossible to find: my wallet seems to have disappeared | the couple disappeared while travelling through Afghanistan nearly two years ago. • abduct or arrest and kill or detain (a person) for political reasons, without making their fate known: it is estimated that some 7000 people have been disappeared by security forces. ORIGIN late Middle English: from dis- (expressing reversal) + appear, on the pattern of French disparaître."

disciplinary

"disciplinary | ˈdɪsɪplɪn(ə)ri, ˌdɪsɪˈplɪn(ə)ri | adjective concerning or enforcing discipline: a soldier will face disciplinary action after going absent without leave. ORIGIN late 15th century (originally with reference to ecclesiastical order): from medieval Latin disciplinarius, from Latin disciplina, from discipulus 'learner' (see disciple)."

discovered

"discover | dɪˈskʌvə | verb 1 find unexpectedly or during a search: firemen discovered a body in the debris | she discovered her lover in the arms of another woman. • become aware of (a fact or situation): the courage to discover the truth and possibly be disappointed | : it was a relief to discover that he wasn't in. • be the first to find or observe (a place, substance, or scientific phenomenon): Fleming discovered penicillin early in the twentieth century. • show interest in (an activity or subject) for the first time: a teenager who has recently discovered fashion. • be the first to recognize the potential of (an actor or performer): I discovered the band back in the mid 70s. 2 archaic divulge (a secret): they contain some secrets which Time will discover. • disclose the identity of (someone): she at last discovered herself to me. • display (a quality or feeling): with what agility did these military men discover their skill in feats of war. ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'make known'): from Old French descovrir, from late Latin discooperire, from Latin dis- (expressing reversal) + cooperire 'cover completely' (see cover)."

discussing

"discuss | dɪˈskʌs | verb talk about (something) with a person or people: I discussed the matter with my wife | : they were discussing where to go for a drink. • talk or write about (a topic) in detail, taking into account different issues or ideas: in Chapter Six I discuss problems that arise in applying Darwin's ideas. DERIVATIVES discussable adjective discusser noun ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'dispel, disperse', also 'examine by argument'): from Latin discuss- 'dashed to pieces', later 'investigated', from the verb discutere, from dis- 'apart' + quatere 'shake'."

disguises

"disguise | dɪsˈɡʌɪz | verb give (someone or oneself) a different appearance in order to conceal one's identity: we took elaborate measures to disguise ourselves as locals | Brian was disguised as a priest. • make (something) unrecognizable by altering its appearance, sound, taste, or smell: does holding a handkerchief over the mouthpiece really disguise your voice? • conceal the nature or existence of (a feeling or situation): he made no effort to disguise his contempt | his voice was heavy with barely disguised emotion. noun a means of altering one's appearance to conceal one's identity: I put on dark glasses as a disguise. • the state of having altered one's appearance in order to conceal one's identity: I told them you were a policewoman in disguise. • the concealing of one's true intentions or feelings: the children looked at her without disguise. ORIGIN Middle English (meaning 'change one's usual style of dress', with no implication of concealing one's identity): from Old French desguisier."

disoriented

"disoriented | dɪsˈɒrɪəntɪd, dɪsˈɔːrɪəntɪd | adjective having lost one's sense of direction; disorientated: she was so disoriented that Joe had to walk her to her room. • confused and unable to think clearly: jet lag leaves you irritable, disoriented, and tired. "

displayed

"displayed | dɪˈspleɪd | adjective 1 (of information) shown on a computer screen or other device: a utility designed to allow you to cut up pieces of displayed graphics. 2 Heraldry (of a bird of prey) depicted with the wings extended. • (of the wings of a bird of prey) extended. "

disseminations

"dissemination | dɪˌsɛmɪˈneɪʃn | noun the action or fact of spreading something, especially information, widely: the dissemination of public information. "

distinctly

"distinctly | dɪˈstɪŋ(k)tli | adverb in a way that is readily distinguishable by the senses; clearly: reading each word slowly and distinctly. • (used for emphasis) in a way that is very noticeable or apparent; decidedly: two distinctly different cultures | he looked distinctly uncomfortable. "

distinguish

"distinguish | dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ | verb 1 recognize or treat (someone or something) as different: the child is perfectly capable of distinguishing reality from fantasy. • recognize or point out a difference: we must distinguish between two kinds of holiday. • be an identifying characteristic or mark of: what distinguishes sport from games? 2 manage to discern (something barely perceptible): it was too dark to distinguish anything more than their vague shapes. 3 (distinguish oneself) make oneself worthy of respect by one's behaviour or achievements: many distinguished themselves in the fight against Hitler. ORIGIN late 16th century: formed irregularly from French distinguer or Latin distinguere, from dis- 'apart' + stinguere 'put out' (from a base meaning 'prick')."

distortion

"distortion | dɪˈstɔːʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of distorting or the state of being distorted: the virus causes distortion of the leaves | : deliberate distortions of pitch and timbre. • a distorted form or part: a distortion in the eye's shape or structure. 2 the action of giving a misleading account or impression: we're fed up with the media's continuing distortion of our issues. 3 change in the form of an electrical signal or sound wave during processing. DERIVATIVES distortional | dɪˈstɔːʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective distortionless adjective "

districts

"district | ˈdɪstrɪkt | noun an area of a country or city, especially one characterized by a particular feature or activity: a coal-mining district. • a region defined for an administrative purpose: a district health authority. • British a division of a county or region that elects its own councillors. verb North American divide into areas: the committee districted the city into blocks. ORIGIN early 17th century (denoting the territory under the jurisdiction of a feudal lord): from French, from medieval Latin districtus '(territory of) jurisdiction', from Latin distringere 'draw apart'."

diverting

"diverting | dɪˈvəːtɪŋ, dʌɪˈvəːtɪŋ | adjective entertaining or amusing: fans of these actors will find this book a diverting read | it's not great television, but I found it pleasantly diverting. DERIVATIVES divertingly adverb "

educational

"educational | ɛdjʊˈkeɪʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective relating to the provision of education: educational institutions | children with special educational needs. • intended or serving to educate or enlighten: seeing an analyst was a very educational experience. DERIVATIVES educationalist | ɛdjʊˈkeɪʃ(ə)n(ə)lɪst | noun "

effective

"effective | ɪˈfɛktɪv | adjective 1 successful in producing a desired or intended result: effective solutions to environmental problems. • (of a law, rule, or policy) operative: the regulation will be effective from January. 2 existing in fact, though not formally acknowledged as such: she has been under effective house arrest since September. • assessed according to actual rather than face value: an effective price of £176 million. noun a soldier fit and available for service: when the battles broke out, he had a total of 920 effectives. DERIVATIVES effectivity | ɪfɛkˈtɪvɪti | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin effectivus, from efficere 'accomplish' (see effect)."

efficiency

"efficiency | ɪˈfɪʃ(ə)nsi | noun (plural efficiencies) the state or quality of being efficient: greater energy efficiency. • an action designed to achieve efficiency: the reforms will lead to efficiencies and savings. • technical the ratio of the useful work performed by a machine or in a process to the total energy expended or heat taken in: the boiler has an efficiency of 45 per cent. ORIGIN late 16th century (in the sense 'the fact of being an efficient cause'): from Latin efficientia, from efficere 'accomplish' (see effect)."

electrode

"electrode | ɪˈlɛktrəʊd | noun a conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object, substance, or region. ORIGIN mid 19th century: from electric + Greek hodos 'way', on the pattern of anode and cathode."

eliminating

"eliminating | ɪˈlɪmɪneɪtɪŋ | adjective leading to exclusion from consideration or further participation: teams who had fought their way through the eliminating rounds. "

emotional

"emotional | ɪˈməʊʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective relating to a person's emotions: gaining emotional support from relatives. • arousing or characterized by intense feeling: an emotional speech. • (of a person) having feelings that are easily excited and openly displayed: he was a strongly emotional young man. DERIVATIVES emotionalism | ɪˈməʊʃ(ə)n(ə)lɪz(ə)m | noun emotionalist noun & adjective emotionality | ɪməʊʃ(ə)ˈnalɪti | noun "

encouraging

"encouraging | ɛŋˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ, ɪŋˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ | adjective giving someone support or confidence; supportive: she gave me an encouraging smile. • positive and giving hope for future success; promising: the results are very encouraging. DERIVATIVES encouragingly | ɪnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋli, ɛnˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋli | adverb : encouragingly, there is more research being done today | : the level of activity continues to be encouragingly high "

entrepreneurial

"entrepreneurial | ˌɒntrəprəˈnəːrɪəl, ˌɒntrəprəˈnjʊərɪəl | adjective characterized by the taking of financial risks in the hope of profit; enterprising: an entrepreneurial culture | our entrepreneurial spirit thrives on meeting the next challenge. DERIVATIVES entrepreneurialism | ˌɒntrəprəˈn(j)əːrɪəlɪz(ə)m, ˌɒntrəprəˈnjʊəːrɪəlɪz(ə)m | noun entrepreneurially | ˌɒntrəprəˈn(j)əːrɪəli, ˌɒntrəprəˈnjʊərɪəli | adverb "

environmental

"environmental | ɪnvʌɪrənˈmɛnt(ə)l, ɛnvʌɪrənˈmɛnt(ə)l | adjective 1 relating to the natural world and the impact of human activity on its condition: acid rain may have caused major environmental damage. • aiming or designed to promote the protection of the natural world: environmental tourism. 2 relating to or arising from a person's surroundings: environmental noise. "

establish

"establish | ɪˈstablɪʃ, ɛˈstablɪʃ | verb 1 set up on a firm or permanent basis: the scheme was established in 1975. • initiate or bring about (contact or communication): the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992. 2 achieve permanent acceptance or recognition for: the principle of the supremacy of national parliaments needs to be firmly established | he had established himself as a film star. • introduce (a character, set, or location) into a film or play and allow its identification: establish the location with a wide shot. 3 show (something) to be true or certain by determining the facts: : the police established that the two passports were forgeries. 4 Bridge ensure that one's remaining cards in (a suit) will be winners (if not trumped) by playing off the high cards in that suit: the right plan would be to establish dummy's diamonds. DERIVATIVES establisher | ɪˈstablɪʃə, ɛˈstablɪʃə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English (recorded earlier as stablish): from Old French establiss-, lengthened stem of establir, from Latin stabilire 'make firm', from stabilis (adjective) 'stable'."

exception

"exception | ɪkˈsɛpʃ(ə)n, ɛkˈsɛpʃ(ə)n | noun a person or thing that is excluded from a general statement or does not follow a rule: he always plays top tunes, and tonight was no exception | the administrator made an exception in the Colonel's case and waived the normal visiting hours. PHRASES the exception proves the rule proverb the fact that some cases do not follow a rule proves that the rule applies in all other cases. take exception to object strongly to: many viewers took great exception to the programme's content. with the exception of except; not including: all water sports, with the exception of scuba diving, are complimentary. without exception with no one or nothing excluded: almost without exception, all the residents are opposed to this vandalism. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin exceptio(n-), from excipere 'take out' (see except)."

exchanges

"exchange | ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ, ɛksˈtʃeɪndʒ | noun 1 an act of giving one thing and receiving another (especially of the same kind) in return: negotiations should lead to an exchange of land for peace | : opportunities for the exchange of information. • a visit or visits in which two people or groups from different countries stay with each other or do each other's jobs: : an exchange visit to Germany. 2 the changing of money to its equivalent in the currency of another country: they provided me with currency exchange at competitive rates. • a system or market in which commercial transactions involving currency, shares, etc. can be carried out within or between countries. • a building or institution used for the trading of a particular commodity or commodities: the old Corn Exchange. 3 a short conversation or an argument: there was a heated exchange. 4 short for telephone exchange. 5 Chess a move or short sequence of moves in which both players capture material of comparable value, or particularly the exchange in which one captures a rook in return for a knight or bishop. verb give something and receive something of the same kind in return: we exchanged addresses | he exchanged a concerned glance with Stephen. • give or receive one thing in place of another: we regret that tickets cannot be exchanged | I exchanged my overalls for a sober dark suit. • exchange contracts. PHRASES exchange contracts British (of a buyer) sign a legal contract with the vendor of a property or piece of land, making the purchase legally binding and enforceable. in exchange as a thing exchanged: he carried bags of groceries in exchange for a nickel. DERIVATIVES exchangeability | ɪkstʃeɪndʒəˈbɪlɪti, ɛkstʃeɪndʒəˈbɪlɪti | noun exchangeable | ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒəb(ə)l, ɛksˈtʃeɪndʒəb(ə)l | adjective exchanger | ɪkˈstʃeɪndʒə, ɛkˈstʃeɪndʒə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French eschange (noun), eschangier (verb), based on changer (see change). The spelling was influenced by Latin ex- 'out, utterly' (see ex-1)."

existence

"existence | ɪɡˈzɪst(ə)ns, ɛɡˈzɪst(ə)ns | noun the fact or state of living or having objective reality: the organization has been in existence for fifteen years. • continued survival: she kept the company alive when its very existence was threatened. • a way of living: our stressed-out urban existence. • (in certain beliefs) any of a person's successive earthly lives: a person may be reaping the consequences of evil deeds sown in previous existences. • all that exists: he believed in the essential unity of all existence. • archaic something that exists; a being. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, or from late Latin existentia, from Latin exsistere 'come into being', from ex- 'out' + sistere 'take a stand'."

experiments

"experiment | ɪkˈspɛrɪm(ə)nt, ɛkˈspɛrɪm(ə)nt | noun a scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact: a laboratory which carried out experiments on pigs | : I have tested this by experiment. • a course of action tentatively adopted without being sure of the outcome: the previous experiment in liberal democracy had ended in disaster. verb | ɪkˈspɛrɪmɛnt | perform a scientific procedure, especially in a laboratory, to determine something: experimenting on animals causes suffering. • try out new ideas or methods: the designers experimented with new ideas in lighting. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin experimentum, from experiri 'try'. Compare with experience and expert."

explaining

"explain | ɪkˈspleɪn, ɛkˈspleɪn | verb make (an idea or situation) clear to someone by describing it in more detail or revealing relevant facts: : they explained that their lives centred on the religious rituals | : 'It's a device of great age,' the professor explained | : he explained the situation. • give a reason so as to justify or excuse (an action or event): : Cassie found it necessary to explain her blackened eye | : he makes athletes explain why they made a mistake | : I explained about Maureen calling round. • be the cause of or motivating factor for: her father's violence explains her pacifism | : this would explain why so many adult children still live with their parents. • (explain something away) minimize the significance of an embarrassing fact or action by giving an excuse or justification: they know stories about me that I can't explain away. PHRASES explain oneself expand on what one has said in order to make oneself clear. • excuse or justify one's motives or conduct: he was too panicked to stay and explain himself to the policeman. DERIVATIVES explainable | ɪkˈspleɪnəb(ə)l, ɛkˈspleɪnəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin explanare, based on planus 'plain'."

explosions

"explosion | ɪkˈspləʊʒ(ə)n, ɛkˈspləʊʒ(ə)n | noun 1 a violent shattering or blowing apart of something, as is caused by a bomb: three explosions damaged buildings at the barracks | an explosion of methane gas. • technical a violent expansion in which energy is transmitted outwards as a shock wave. 2 a sudden outburst of something such as violent emotion, especially anger: an explosion of anger inside the factory. • a sudden political or social upheaval: there will have to be sweeping changes if the political leaders want to avoid an explosion. 3 a sudden increase in amount or extent: an explosion in the adder population. ORIGIN early 17th century: from Latin explosio(n-) 'scornful rejection', from the verb explodere (see explode)."

expression

"expression | ɪkˈsprɛʃ(ə)n, ɛkˈsprɛʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of making known one's thoughts or feelings: the prisoners developed a dialect as an everyday means of expression | : she accepted his expressions of sympathy. • the conveying of feeling in a work of art or in the performance of a piece of music: the testimony of musicians who worked with him proves that his overwhelming concern was with expression. 2 a look on someone's face that conveys a particular emotion: a sad expression. 3 a word or phrase, especially an idiomatic one, used to convey an idea: we have an expression, 'You don't get owt for nowt.'. • Mathematics a collection of symbols that jointly express a quantity: the expression for the circumference of a circle is 2πr. 4 the production of something by pressing it out: essential oils obtained by distillation or expression. 5 Genetics the appearance in a phenotype of a characteristic or effect attributed to a particular gene: expression of the TAT gene is restricted to the parenchymal cells. DERIVATIVES expressional adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin expressio(n-), from exprimere 'press out, express'. Compare with express1."

extensive

"extensive | ɪkˈstɛnsɪv, ɛkˈstɛnsɪv | adjective 1 covering or affecting a large area: an extensive garden. • large in amount or scale: an extensive collection of silver. 2 (of agriculture) obtaining a relatively small crop from a large area with a minimum of capital and labour: extensive farming techniques. Often contrasted with intensive (sense 1 of the adjective). DERIVATIVES extensiveness | ɪkˈstɛnsɪvnəs, ɛkˈstɛnsɪvnəs | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from French extensif, -ive or late Latin extensivus, from extens- 'stretched out', from the verb extendere (see extend)."

facilities

"facility | fəˈsɪlɪti | noun (plural facilities) 1 a place, amenity, or piece of equipment provided for a particular purpose: cooking facilities | facilities for car parking | a manufacturing facility. • a special feature of a service or machine, which offers the opportunity to do or benefit from something: an overdraft facility. 2 a natural ability to do or learn something well and easily: he had a facility for languages. • absence of difficulty or effort: the pianist played with great facility. ORIGIN early 16th century (denoting the means or unimpeded opportunity for doing something): from French facilité or Latin facilitas, from facilis 'easy' (see facile)."

fanatical

"fanatical | fəˈnatɪk(ə)l | adjective filled with excessive and single-minded zeal: fanatical revolutionaries. • obsessively concerned with something: her husband was fanatical about tidiness. DERIVATIVES fanatically | fəˈnatɪk(ə)li | adverb "

fellowships

"fellowship | ˈfɛlə(ʊ)ʃɪp | noun 1 friendly association, especially with people who share one's interests: they valued fun and good fellowship as the cement of the community. • a group of people meeting to pursue a shared interest or aim. • a guild or corporation. 2 the status of a fellow of a college or society: a fellowship in mathematics. "

fluorescent

"fluorescent | flʊəˈrɛs(ə)nt, flɔːˈrɛs(ə)nt | adjective 1 (of a substance) having or showing fluorescence: a fluorescent dye. • containing a fluorescent tube: fluorescent lighting. 2 vividly colourful: a fluorescent T-shirt. noun a fluorescent tube or lamp. DERIVATIVES fluorescently adverb "

fluttered

"flutter | ˈflʌtə | verb (of a bird or other winged creature) fly unsteadily or hover by flapping the wings quickly and lightly: a couple of butterflies fluttered around the garden. • (of a bird or other winged creature) flap (its wings) quickly and lightly. • move with a light irregular or trembling motion: flags of different countries fluttered in the breeze. • (of a person) move restlessly or uncertainly: Mavis fluttered about nervously. • (of a pulse or heartbeat) beat feebly or irregularly. noun 1 an act of fluttering: there was a flutter of wings at the window. • a state or sensation of tremulous excitement: her insides were in a flutter. • Medicine disturbance of the rhythm of the heart that is less severe than fibrillation. • Aeronautics undesired oscillation in a part of an aircraft under stress. • Electronics rapid variation in the pitch or amplitude of a signal, especially of recorded sound. Compare with wow2. 2 British informal a small bet: a flutter on the horses. PHRASES flutter one's eyelashes open and close one's eyes rapidly in a coy, flirtatious manner. DERIVATIVES flutterer noun ORIGIN Old English floterian, flotorian, a frequentative form related to fleet4."

fragmented

"fragment noun | ˈfraɡm(ə)nt | a small part broken off or separated from something: small fragments of pottery. • an isolated or incomplete part of something: Nathan remembered fragments of the conversation. verb | fraɡˈmɛnt | break or cause to break into fragments: : Lough Erne fragmented into a series of lakes | : management has tighter control through fragmenting the tasks. ORIGIN late Middle English: from French, or from Latin fragmentum, from frangere 'to break'."

frustration

"frustration | frʌˈstreɪʃn | noun 1 the feeling of being upset or annoyed as a result of being unable to change or achieve something: tears of frustration rolled down her cheeks. • an event or circumstance that causes one to feel frustrated: the inherent frustrations of assembly line work. 2 the prevention of the progress, success, or fulfilment of something: the frustration of their wishes. ORIGIN mid 16th century: from Latin frustratio(n-), from frustrare 'disappoint' (see frustrate)."

functional

"functional | ˈfʌŋ(k)ʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective 1 of or having a special activity, purpose, or task: a functional role. • relating to the way in which something works or operates: there are important functional differences between left and right brain. • (of a disease) affecting the operation, rather than the structure, of an organ: functional diarrhoea. • (of a mental illness) having no discernible organic cause: functional psychosis. 2 designed to be practical and useful, rather than attractive: a small, functional bathroom. 3 in operation; working: the museum will be fully functional from the opening of the festival. 4 Mathematics relating to a variable quantity whose value depends upon one or more other variables: using functional notation, we can write—where L is the transactions demand for money. "

fundraiser

"fundraiser | ˈfʌndreɪzə | noun a person whose job or task is to seek financial support for a charity, cause, or other enterprise: a fundraiser for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society. • an event held to generate financial support for a charity, cause, or other enterprise. "

generated

"generate | ˈdʒɛnəreɪt | verb produce or create: changes which are likely to generate controversy | the income generated by the sale of council houses. • produce (energy, especially electricity). • Mathematics & Linguistics produce (a set or sequence of items) by performing specified mathematical or logical operations on an initial set. • Linguistics produce (a sentence or other unit, especially a well-formed one) by the application of a finite set of rules to lexical or other linguistic input. • Mathematics form (a line, surface, or solid) by notionally moving a point, line, or surface. DERIVATIVES generable | ˈdʒɛnərəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN early 16th century (in the sense 'beget, procreate'): from Latin generat- 'created', from the verb generare, from genus, gener- 'stock, race'."

generations

"generation | dʒɛnəˈreɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 all of the people born and living at about the same time, regarded collectively: one of his generation's finest songwriters. • the average period, generally considered to be about thirty years, in which children grow up, become adults, and have children of their own: the same families have lived here for generations. • a set of members of a family regarded as a single step or stage in descent: : a third-generation Canadian. • a group of people of similar age involved in a particular activity: a new generation of actors and directors. • a single stage in the development of a type of product or technology: a new generation of rear-engined sports cars | : fourth-generation broadband. 2 the production or creation of something: methods of electricity generation | the generation of wealth. • the propagation of living organisms; procreation. ORIGIN Middle English: via Old French from Latin generatio(n-), from the verb generare (see generate)."

glittering

"glittering | ˈɡlɪtərɪŋ | adjective shining with a shimmering or sparkling light: glittering chandeliers. • impressively successful or elaborate: a glittering military career. DERIVATIVES glitteringly adverb "

graduated

"graduated | ˈɡradʒʊeɪtɪd, ˈɡradjʊeɪtɪd | adjective arranged in a series or according to a scale: a graduated tax. • (of an instrument or container) marked with units of measurement: a 15 ml graduated tube. "

grotesquely

"grotesquely | ɡrə(ʊ)ˈtɛskli | adverb in a comically or repulsively ugly or distorted manner: both men have fingers that are twisted grotesquely | : his body was grotesquely swollen. • in an incongruous or shockingly inappropriate manner: a cop who grotesquely abused his power | : a grotesquely unfair tax system. "

headlines

"headline | ˈhɛdlʌɪn | noun 1 a heading at the top of an article or page in a newspaper or magazine: a front-page headline. • (the headlines) the most important items of news in a newspaper or a broadcast news bulletin: issues that are never long out of the headlines | the war at sea began to hit the headlines. • denoting a particularly notable or important piece of news: air accidents make headline news whereas car accidents are seldom publicized. • denoting or relating to the star performer or group at a concert, typically appearing as the last act on the bill: they were one of the headline acts at the festival in Hyde Park. 2 Economics denoting or relating to a figure for unemployment based on the unadjusted total number of people out of work, as a percentage of the population: the headline unemployment rate has surprised the markets by dropping slightly. • denoting or relating to a rate of inflation based on the consumer price index and reflecting all changes to the cost of living that an economy may undergo: the country's headline inflation had slowed down to 6.87 percent. Compare with core (sense 4 of the noun). verb 1 provide with a headline: a feature that was headlined 'Invest in your Future'. 2 appear as the star performer at (a concert): Nirvana headlined the 1992 Reading Festival | : they are headlining at the Town & Country club. "

heartbeat

"heartbeat | ˈhɑːtbiːt | noun the pulsation of the heart: his heartbeat quickened as Rose approached. • a single pulsation of the heart: her heartbeats steadied. • an animating or vital unifying force: Ontario has long been the commercial heartbeat of Canada. PHRASES a heartbeat away from (also a heartbeat from) very close to; on the verge of: the country is a heartbeat from disaster | he is just a heartbeat away from the presidency. in a heartbeat instantly; immediately: I'd do it again in a heartbeat. "

holographic

"holographic | hɒləˈɡrafɪk | adjective produced using holograms: a 3D holographic image | holographic storage discs. DERIVATIVES holographically | -ləˈɡrafɪk(ə)li | adverb "

humiliation

"humiliation | ˌhjuːmɪlɪˈeɪʃn | noun the action of humiliating someone or the state of being humiliated: they suffered the humiliation of losing in the opening round | he fought back tears of humiliation | : the conference decision was a humiliation for the union's executive. "

identical

"identical | ʌɪˈdɛntɪk(ə)l | adjective 1 similar in every detail; exactly alike: four girls in identical green outfits | the passage on the second floor was identical to the one below. • (of twins) developed from a single fertilized ovum, and therefore of the same sex and usually very similar in appearance. Compare with fraternal (sense 2). • (of something encountered on separate occasions) the same: she stole a suitcase from the identical station at which she had been arrested before. 2 Logic & Mathematics expressing an identity: an identical proposition. ORIGIN late 16th century (in identical (sense 2)): from medieval Latin identicus, from late Latin identitas (see identity)."

imagining

"imagine | ɪˈmadʒɪn | verb 1 form a mental image or concept of: she imagined him at his desk, his head in his hands | : I couldn't imagine what she expected to tell them. • believe (something unreal or untrue) to exist or be so: I think you're imagining things. 2 suppose or assume: after Ned died, everyone imagined that Mabel would move away. DERIVATIVES imaginer noun ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French imaginer, from Latin imaginare 'form an image of, represent' and imaginari 'picture to oneself', both from imago, imagin- 'image'."

immediately

"immediately | ɪˈmiːdɪətli | adverb 1 at once; instantly: I rang immediately for an ambulance. 2 without any intervening time or space: she was sitting immediately behind me. • in direct or very close relation: they would be the states most immediately affected by any such action. conjunction mainly British as soon as: let me know immediately she arrives. "

important

"important | ɪmˈpɔːt(ə)nt | adjective of great significance or value: important habitats for wildlife | it is important to avoid monosyllabic answers | : the speech had passion and, more important, compassion. • (of a person) having high rank or status: an important senator. • (of an artist or artistic work) significantly original and influential: writers as important as Hopkins. ORIGIN late Middle English: from medieval Latin important- 'being of consequence', from the verb importare (see import)."

impossible

"impossible | ɪmˈpɒsɪb(ə)l | adjective not able to occur, exist, or be done: a seemingly impossible task | : it was almost impossible to keep up with him. • very difficult to deal with: she was in an impossible situation. • informal (of a person) very unreasonable: what an arrogant impossible fool. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin impossibilis, from in- 'not' + possibilis (see possible)."

impressive

"impressive | ɪmˈprɛsɪv | adjective evoking admiration through size, quality, or skill; grand, imposing, or awesome: an impressive view of the mountains | impressive achievements in science. DERIVATIVES impressiveness | ɪmˈprɛsɪvnəs | noun "

improbably

"improbably | ɪmˈprɒbəbli | adverb in an unexpected or unlikely manner: monasteries perch improbably on crags and cliff tops | a barbecue lunch including, improbably, a jar of caviar each | : everyone in the film is improbably gorgeous. "

incidents

"incident | ˈɪnsɪd(ə)nt | noun 1 an instance of something happening; an event or occurrence: several amusing incidents | there was not one incident of teasing from the 90 pupils. • a violent event, such as a fracas or assault: one person was stabbed in the incident. • a hostile clash between forces of rival countries: the US regretted the incident. • the occurrence of dangerous or exciting things: my period in Egypt wasn't without incident. 2 Law a privilege, burden, or right attaching to an office, estate, or other holding. adjective 1 (incident to) liable to happen because of; resulting from: the changes incident to economic development. • Law attaching to: the costs properly incident to a suit for foreclosure or redemption. 2 (especially of light or other radiation) falling on or striking something: when an ion beam is incident on a surface. • Physics relating to incidence: the incident angle. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin incident- 'falling upon, happening to', from the verb incidere, from in- 'upon' + cadere 'to fall'."

incontinence

"incontinence | ɪnˈkɒntɪnəns | noun 1 lack of voluntary control over urination or defecation: causes of urinary incontinence. 2 lack of self-restraint: the emotional incontinence of modern society. "

increased

"increase verb | ɪnˈkriːs | become or make greater in size, amount, or degree: : car use is increasing at an alarming rate | : we are aiming to increase awareness of social issues. noun | ˈɪŋkriːs | a rise in the size, amount, or degree of something: an increase of 28.3 per cent | : some increase in inflation is expected. PHRASES on the increase becoming greater, more common, or more frequent: fraud is on the increase. DERIVATIVES increasable | ɪŋˈkriːsəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English (formerly also as encrease): from Old French encreistre, from Latin increscere, from in- 'into' + crescere 'grow'."

independent

"independent | ɪndɪˈpɛnd(ə)nt | adjective 1 free from outside control; not subject to another's authority: an independent nuclear deterrent | the study is totally independent of central government. • (of a country) self-governing: India became independent in 1947. • not belonging to or supported by a political party: the independent candidate. • (of broadcasting, a school, etc.) not supported by public funds: an independent girls' school | independent television. • (Independent) historical Congregational. 2 not depending on another for livelihood or subsistence: I wanted to remain independent in old age. • (of income or resources) making it unnecessary to earn one's living: a woman of independent means. 3 capable of thinking or acting for oneself: advice for independent travellers. • not influenced by others; impartial: a thorough and independent investigation of the case. 4 not connected with another or with each other; separate: treating each factory as an independent unit of production | the legislature and the judicature are independent of one another. • not depending on something else for strength or effectiveness; free-standing: an independent electric shower. • Mathematics (of one of a set of axioms, equations, or quantities) incapable of being expressed in terms of, or derived or deduced from, the others. noun an independent person or body: one of the few independents left in the music business. • an independent political candidate: he stood unsuccessfully as an independent in 1992. • (Independent) historical a Congregationalist. ORIGIN early 17th century (as an adjective): partly on the pattern of French indépendant."

indication

"indication | ɪndɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a sign or piece of information that indicates something: the visit was an indication of the improvement in relations between the countries. • a reading given by a gauge or meter. 2 a symptom that suggests certain medical treatment is necessary: heavy bleeding is a common indication for hysterectomy. "

individual

"individual | ɪndɪˈvɪdʒʊ(ə)l, ɪndɪˈvɪdjʊ(ə)l | adjective 1 single; separate: individual tiny flowers. 2 of or for a particular person: the individual needs of the children. • designed for use by one person: a casserole served in individual portions. • characteristic of a particular person or thing: she was surprised at how individual the others' bodies were. • having a striking or unusual character; original: she creates her own, highly individual landscapes. noun a single human being as distinct from a group: boat trips for parties and individuals. • a single member of a class: they live in a group or as individuals, depending on the species. • informal a person of a specified kind: the most selfish, egotistical individual I have ever met. • a distinctive or original person. ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'indivisible'): from medieval Latin individualis, from Latin individuus, from in- 'not' + dividuus 'divisible' (from dividere 'to divide')."

inflation

"inflation | ɪnˈfleɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of inflating something or the condition of being inflated: the inflation of a balloon | the gross inflation of salaries. • Astronomy (in some theories of cosmology) a very brief exponential expansion of the universe postulated to have interrupted the standard linear expansion shortly after the Big Bang. 2 Economics a general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money: policies aimed at controlling inflation | tax allowances and excise duties were increased in line with inflation | a reduction in annual inflation from 84 per cent to 7 per cent | : high inflation rates. DERIVATIVES inflationism noun inflationist | ɪnˈfleɪʃnɪst | noun & adjective ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'the condition of being inflated with a gas'): from Latin inflatio(n-), from inflare 'blow in to' (see inflate). inflation (sense 2) dates from the mid 19th century."

ingenious

"ingenious | ɪnˈdʒiːnɪəs | adjective (of a person) clever, original, and inventive: he was ingenious enough to overcome the limited budget. • (of a machine or idea) cleverly and originally devised and well suited to its purpose: ingenious devices | his theory, while ingenious, is most assuredly incorrect. DERIVATIVES ingeniousness | ɪnˈdʒiːnɪəsnəs | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from French ingénieux or Latin ingeniosus, from ingenium 'mind, intellect'; compare with engine."

ingesting

"ingest | ɪnˈdʒɛst | verb take (food, drink, or another substance) into the body by swallowing or absorbing it: lead will poison anyone if enough is ingested | they ingest oxygen from the air. • absorb (information): he spent his days ingesting the contents of the library. DERIVATIVES ingestive adjective ORIGIN early 17th century: from Latin ingest- 'brought in', from the verb ingerere, from in- 'into' + gerere 'carry'."

insertion

"insertion | ɪnˈsəːʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of inserting something: he didn't notice the insertion of the envelope into his pocket. • the placing of a spacecraft or satellite into an orbit or trajectory. • Biology the addition of extra DNA or RNA into a section of genetic material. 2 an amendment or addition inserted in a text: omissions and insertions which do not affect the sense | an annual insertion in the local telephone directory. • each appearance of an advertisement in a newspaper or periodical. • an ornamental section of cloth or needlework inserted into a garment. 3 Anatomy & Zoology the place or manner of attachment of an organ: close to the point of leaf insertion. • the place or manner of attachment of a muscle to the part which it moves: the names of the muscles and their insertions on the eyeball. ORIGIN mid 16th century (in insertion (sense 2)): from late Latin insertio(n-), from Latin inserere (see insert)."

installed

"install | ɪnˈstɔːl | (British also instal) verb (installs or instals, installing, installed) 1 place or fix (equipment or machinery) in position ready for use: we're planning to install a new shower. 2 place (someone) in a new position of authority, especially with ceremony: he was installed as Prime Minister in 1966. • establish (someone) in a new place or condition: Ashley installed herself behind her table. ORIGIN late Middle English (in install (sense 2)): from medieval Latin installare, from in- 'into' + stallum 'place, stall'. install (sense 1) dates from the mid 19th century."

institute

"institute | ˈɪnstɪtjuːt | noun 1 an organization having a particular purpose, especially one that is involved with science, education, or a specific profession: the Institute of Architects | a research institute. 2 (usually institutes) archaic a commentary, treatise, or summary of principles, especially concerning law: Coke's Institutes of the Laws of England. verb 1 introduce or establish (a scheme, undertaking, or policy): the state instituted a national lottery | the award was instituted in 1900. • begin (legal proceedings) in a court: she intended to institute divorce proceedings. 2 appoint (someone) to a position, especially as a cleric: his sons were instituted to the priesthood | : a testator who has instituted his daughter heir. ORIGIN Middle English (in institute (sense 2 of the verb)): from Latin institut- 'established', from the verb instituere, from in- 'in, towards' + statuere 'set up'. The noun is from Latin institutum 'something designed, precept', neuter past participle of instituere; sense 1 dates from the early 19th century."

instruction

"instruction | ɪnˈstrʌkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 (often instructions) a direction or order: he issued instructions to the sheriff | he was acting on my instructions. • (instructions) Law directions to a solicitor or counsel, or to a jury. • Computing a code in a program which defines and carries out an operation. 2 (instructions) detailed information about how something should be done or operated: always study the instructions supplied. 3 teaching; education: instruction in the Roman Catholic faith. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from late Latin instructio(n-), from the verb instruere (see instruct)."

intensive

"intensive | ɪnˈtɛnsɪv | adjective 1 concentrated on a single subject or into a short time; very thorough or vigorous: she undertook an intensive Arabic course | eight days of intensive arms talks. • (of agriculture) aiming to achieve maximum production within a limited area, especially by using chemical and technological aids: intensive farming | less intensive, more environmentally friendly forms of farming. Often contrasted with extensive (sense 2). • (typically in business and economics) concentrating on or making much use of a specified thing: computer-intensive methods. 2 Grammar (of an adjective, adverb, or particle) giving force or emphasis. 3 mainly Physics denoting a property which is measured in terms of intensity (e.g. concentration) rather than of extent (e.g. volume), and so is not simply increased by addition of one thing to another. noun Grammar an intensive adjective, adverb, or particle; an intensifier. DERIVATIVES intensiveness noun ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'vehement, intense'): from French intensif, -ive or medieval Latin intensivus, from intendere (see intend). USAGE On the difference between intensive and intense, see usage at intense."

intention

"intention | ɪnˈtɛnʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a thing intended; an aim or plan: she was full of good intentions | : he announced his intention to stand for re-election. • the action or fact of intending: intention is just one of the factors that will be considered. • (someone's intentions) a person's plans, especially a man's, in respect to marriage: if his intentions aren't honourable, I never want to see him again. 2 Medicine the healing process of a wound. See first intention, second intention. 3 (intentions) Logic conceptions formed by directing the mind towards an object. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French entencion, from Latin intentio(n-) 'stretching, purpose', from intendere (see intend)."

interdependent

"interdependent | ɪntədɪˈpɛndənt | adjective (of two or more people or things) dependent on each other: we in Europe are all increasingly interdependent. "

interested

"interested | ˈɪnt(ə)rɪstɪd | adjective 1 showing curiosity or concern about something or someone; having a feeling of interest: I had always been interested in history. 2 having an interest or involvement; not impartial: seeking views from all interested parties. DERIVATIVES interestedly | ˈɪnt(ə)rɪstɪdli | adverb interestedness noun "

interestingly

"interestingly | ˈɪntrəstɪŋli | adverb in a way that arouses curiosity or interest: she writes interestingly about all manner of things | : interestingly, there are clear differences between the two drugs. "

interfacing

"interfacing | ˈɪntəfeɪsɪŋ | noun an extra layer of material or an adhesive stiffener that is applied to the facing of a garment to add support. "

interpret

"interpret | ɪnˈtəːprɪt | verb (interprets, interpreting, interpreted) 1 explain the meaning of (information or actions): the evidence is difficult to interpret. • understand (an action, mood, or way of behaving) as having a particular meaning: he would no longer interpret her silence as indifference. • perform (a dramatic role or piece of music) in a way that conveys one's understanding of the creator's ideas: interpreting the music well takes hours of listening and experimentation. 2 translate orally or into sign language the words of a person speaking a different language: I agreed to interpret for Jean-Claude. DERIVATIVES interpretability | ɪnˌtəprətəˈbɪlɪti | noun interpretable | ɪnˈtəːprɪtəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French interpreter or Latin interpretari 'explain, translate', from interpres, interpret- 'agent, translator, interpreter'."

interrupted

"interrupted | ɪntəˈrʌptɪd | adjective 1 Botany (of a compound leaf or other plant organ) made discontinuous by smaller interposed leaflets or intervals of bare stem. 2 Music (of a cadence) having a penultimate dominant chord that is followed not by the expected chord of the tonic but by another, usually that of the submediant. "

intervals

"interval | ˈɪntəv(ə)l | noun 1 an intervening time: after his departure, there was an interval of many years without any meetings | the day should be dry with sunny intervals. • a component of activity in interval training: they ran, sprinted, and jogged for four 15-minute intervals at two different times. 2 a pause or break in activity: an interval of mourning. • British a period of time separating parts of a theatrical or musical performance. • a break between the parts of a sports match: United led 3-0 at the interval. 3 a space between two things; a gap. 4 the difference in pitch between two sounds. PHRASES at intervals 1 with time between; not continuously: the light flashed at intervals. 2 with spaces between: the path is marked with rocks at intervals. DERIVATIVES intervallic | ɪntəˈvalɪk | adjective ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French entrevalle, based on Latin intervallum 'space between ramparts, interval', from inter- 'between' + vallum 'rampart'."

interviews

"interview | ˈɪntəvjuː | noun a meeting of people face to face, especially for consultation. • a conversation between a journalist or radio or television presenter and a person of public interest, used as the basis of a broadcast or publication: a half-hour interview with the prime minister. • an oral examination of an applicant for a job, college place, etc.: I am pleased to advise you that you have been selected for interview. • a session of formal questioning of a person by the police. verb hold an interview with (someone): she was interviewed by a reporter from the Daily News | police are keen to interview two men seen nearby. • perform (well or badly) at an interview. ORIGIN early 16th century (formerly also as enterview): from French entrevue, from s'entrevoir 'see each other', from voir 'to see', on the pattern of vue 'a view'."

intricately

"intricately | ˈɪntrɪkətli | adverb in a very complicated or detailed manner: intricately carved figures | a nuanced and intricately layered performance. "

intriguing

"intriguing | ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ | adjective arousing one's curiosity or interest; fascinating: an intriguing story | it's an intriguing possibility | the food is an intriguing combination of German and French. "

introduced

"introduce | ɪntrəˈdjuːs | verb 1 bring (something, especially a product, measure, or concept) into use or operation for the first time: various new taxes were introduced | measures were introduced to help families with children. • bring (a plant, animal, or disease) to a place for the first time: horses and sheep introduced to the island did not survive. • (introduce something to) bring a subject to the attention of (someone) for the first time: the programme is a bid to introduce opera to the masses. • present (a new piece of legislation) for debate in a legislative assembly: bills can be introduced in either House of Parliament. 2 make (someone) known by name to another in person, especially formally: I must introduce you to my wife | he introduced himself as Detective Sergeant Fraser. 3 insert or bring into something: a device which introduces chlorine into the pool automatically. 4 occur at the start of; open: a longer, more lyrical opening which introduces a courting song. • (of a person) provide an opening explanation or announcement for (a television or radio programme, book, etc.). DERIVATIVES introducer | ˌɪntrəˈdjuːsə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'bring (a person) into a place or group'): from Latin introducere, from intro- 'to the inside' + ducere 'to lead'."

involving

"involve | ɪnˈvɒlv | verb have or include (something) as a necessary or integral part or result: my job involves a lot of travelling | a bill proposing harsher penalties for crimes involving firearms and drugs. • cause to participate in an activity or situation: an opportunity to involve as many people as possible in all aspects of music-making. • (be/get involved) be or become occupied or engrossed in something: her husband had been very involved in his work. • (be involved) be engaged in an emotional or personal relationship: Angela told me she was involved with someone else. ORIGIN late Middle English (in the senses 'enfold' and 'entangle'; formerly also as envolve): from Latin involvere, from in- 'into' + volvere 'to roll'."

irritation

"irritation | ɪrɪˈteɪʃn | noun 1 the state of feeling annoyed, impatient, or slightly angry: much to my irritation, Chris fell asleep. • a thing that annoys or irritates someone: the minor irritations of life. 2 inflammation or other discomfort in a body part caused by reaction to an irritant substance: some chemicals cause a direct irritation to the skin leading to dermatitis. • Biology the stimulation of an organism, cell, or organ to produce an active response. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin irritatio(n-), from the verb irritare (see irritate)."

journalist

"journalist | ˈdʒəːn(ə)lɪst | noun a person who writes for newspapers, magazines, or news websites or prepares news to be broadcast: foreign journalists had been expelled from the area | he was a seasoned TV journalist. "

lightening

"lightening | ˈlʌɪt(ə)nɪŋ | noun a drop in the level of the uterus during the last weeks of pregnancy as the head of the fetus engages in the pelvis. "

listening

"listen | ˈlɪs(ə)n | verb give one's attention to a sound: evidently he was not listening | sit and listen to the radio. • take notice of and act on what someone says; respond to advice or a request: I told her over and over again, but she wouldn't listen. • (listen for or listen out for) make an effort to hear something; be alert and ready to hear something: they listened for sounds from the baby's room. • (also North American listen up) used to urge someone to pay attention to what one is going to say: listen, I've had an idea. noun an act of listening to something: radio plays are definitely worth a listen. PHRASAL VERBS listen in listen to a private conversation, especially secretly: Seth listened in as his father chatted philosophy with friends. • use a radio receiving set to listen to a broadcast or conversation: anyone with the right radio receiver can listen in on calls. ORIGIN Old English hlysnan 'pay attention to', of Germanic origin."

literally

"literally | ˈlɪt(ə)rəli | adverb in a literal manner or sense; exactly: the driver took it literally when asked to go straight over the roundabout | tiramisu, literally translated 'pull-me-up'. • informal used for emphasis while not being literally true: I was literally blown away by the response I got. USAGE In its standard use literally means 'in a literal sense, as opposed to a non-literal or exaggerated sense', as for example in I told him I never wanted to see him again, but I didn't expect him to take it literally. In recent years an extended use of literally (and also literal) has become very common, where literally (or literal) is used deliberately in non-literal contexts, for added effect, as in they bought the car and literally ran it into the ground. This use can lead to unintentional humorous effects ( we were literally killing ourselves laughing) and is not acceptable in formal contexts, though it is widespread."

maintaining

"maintain | meɪnˈteɪn, mənˈteɪn | verb 1 cause or enable (a condition or situation) to continue: the need to maintain close links between industry and schools. • keep (something) at the same level or rate: agricultural prices will have to be maintained. • keep (a building, machine, or road) in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly: the Department for Transport is responsible for maintaining the main roads in England. 2 provide with necessities for life or existence: the allowance covers the basic costs of maintaining a child. • keep (a military unit) supplied with equipment and other requirements: an English garrison was maintained there in the seventeenth century. • archaic give one's support to; uphold: the king swears he will maintain the laws of God. 3 state something strongly to be the case; assert: : he has always maintained his innocence | : he had persistently maintained that he would not stand against his old friend. DERIVATIVES maintainability | mənteɪnəˈbɪlɪti | noun maintainable adjective ORIGIN Middle English (also in the sense 'practise an action habitually'): from Old French maintenir, from Latin manu tenere 'hold in the hand'."

mechanics

"mechanics | mɪˈkanɪks | plural noun 1 the branch of applied mathematics dealing with motion and forces producing motion: the laws of mechanics and electricity predicted that the electrons would spiral inward until they collided with the nucleus. • the practical study of machinery: skills like carpentry, motor mechanics, and electrics. 2 the machinery or working parts of something: he looks at the mechanics of a car before the bodywork. • the way in which something is done or operated: the mechanics of cello playing. "

mentioned

"mention | ˈmɛnʃ(ə)n | verb refer to (something) briefly and without going into detail: I haven't mentioned it to William yet | : I mentioned that my father was meeting me later. • refer to (someone) as being noteworthy, especially as a potential candidate for a post: he is still regularly mentioned as a possible secretary of state. noun a reference to someone or something: their eyes light up at a mention of Sartre | : she made no mention of her disastrous trip to Paris. • a formal acknowledgement of something noteworthy: he received a special mention and a prize of £100 | : two other points are worthy of mention. • (in full mention in dispatches) British an instance of being mentioned in dispatches: the unit was awarded fifteen mentions. PHRASES be mentioned in dispatches British be commended for one's actions by name in an official military report: the squadron can be proud of the fact that two of the aircrew were mentioned in dispatches. don't mention it a polite expression used to indicate that thanks or an apology are not necessary: 'Thanks very much.' 'Don't mention it, dear boy.'. mention someone in one's will leave a legacy to someone: three sons and two daughters are mentioned in his will. not to mention used to introduce an additional point which reinforces the point being made: I'm amazed you find the time, not to mention the energy, to do any work at all. DERIVATIVES mentionable | ˈmɛnʃ(ə)nəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English (originally in make mention of): via Old French from Latin mentio(n-); related to mind."

millennium

"millennium | mɪˈlɛnɪəm | noun (plural millennia | mɪˈlɛnɪə | or millenniums) 1 a period of a thousand years, especially when calculated from the traditional date of the birth of Christ: silver first came into use on a substantial scale during the 3rd millennium bc. • (the millennium) Christian Theology the prophesied thousand-year reign of Christ at the end of the age (Rev. 20:1-5): Archer's treatise predicted that the millennium was close at hand. • (the millennium) a utopian period of justice, peace, and prosperity: the people must seize power—the millennium cannot be imposed on them from above. 2 an anniversary of a thousand years: the millennium of the Russian Orthodox Church. • (the millennium) the point at which one period of a thousand years ends and another begins: as we approach the millennium the only certainty is change. ORIGIN mid 17th century: modern Latin, from Latin mille 'thousand', on the pattern of biennium. USAGE The correct spelling is millennium not millenium. The latter is a common error, formed by analogy with other similar words correctly spelled with only one n, such as millenarian and millenary. The differences in spelling are explained by different origins. Millennium was formed by analogy with words like biennium, while millenary and millenarian were formed from the Latin milleni."

necessarily

"necessarily | ˈnɛsəs(ə)rɪli, ˌnɛsəˈsɛrɪli | adverb as a necessary result; inevitably: the prognosis can necessarily be only an educated guess. PHRASES not necessarily (as a response) what has been said or suggested may not be true or unavoidable. "

neighbors

"neighbour | ˈneɪbə | (US neighbor) noun a person living next door to or very near to the speaker or person referred to: our garden was the envy of the neighbours. • a person or place in relation to others next or near to it: I chatted with my neighbour on the flight to New York | matching our investment levels with those of our European neighbours. • any person in need of one's help or kindness (after biblical use): love thy neighbour as thyself. verb (of a place or object) be situated next to or very near (another): the square neighbours the old quarter of the town. DERIVATIVES neighbourless (US neighborless) adjective neighbourship (US neighborship) noun ORIGIN Old English nēahgebūr, from nēah 'nigh, near' + gebūr 'inhabitant, peasant, farmer' (compare with boor)."

nightmarish

"nightmarish | ˈnʌɪtmɛːrɪʃ | adjective of the nature of a nightmare; very frightening or unpleasant: a nightmarish vision of the future | a nightmarish eight-hour journey. DERIVATIVES nightmarishly | ˈnʌɪtmɛːrɪʃ(ə)li | adverb "

notorious

"notorious | nə(ʊ)ˈtɔːrɪəs | adjective famous or well known, typically for some bad quality or deed: Los Angeles is notorious for its smog | he was a notorious drinker and womanizer. ORIGIN late 15th century (in the sense 'generally known'): from medieval Latin notorius (from Latin notus 'known') + -ous."

objective

"objective | əbˈdʒɛktɪv | adjective 1 (of a person or their judgement) not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts: historians try to be objective and impartial. Contrasted with subjective. • not dependent on the mind for existence; actual: a matter of objective fact. 2 Grammar relating to or denoting a case of nouns and pronouns serving as the object of a transitive verb or a preposition. noun 1 a thing aimed at or sought; a goal: the system has achieved its objective. 2 (the objective) Grammar the objective case. 3 (also objective lens) the lens in a telescope or microscope nearest to the object observed: examine with high power objective. DERIVATIVES objectiveness | əbˈdʒɛktɪvnəs | noun ORIGIN early 17th century: from medieval Latin objectivus, from objectum (see object)."

obscenely

"obscenely | əbˈsiːnli | adverb in a sexually offensive, disgusting, or indecent manner: the boys used vulgar language and gestured obscenely. • to a disgustingly or immorally extreme degree: obscenely overpaid executives. "

obsessive

"obsessive | əbˈsɛsɪv | adjective of the nature of an obsession: people dogged by obsessive jealousy. • affected by an obsession: she became obsessive about her school work. noun a person who is affected by an obsession: he's an obsessive, obsessed with having complete collections of things. DERIVATIVES obsessiveness | əbˈsɛsɪvnəs | noun "

occasions

"occasion | əˈkeɪʒ(ə)n | noun 1 a particular event, or the time at which it takes place: on one occasion I stayed up until two in the morning. • a special or noteworthy event, ceremony, or celebration: she was presented with a gold watch to mark the occasion | : Sunday lunch has a suitable sense of occasion about it. • a suitable or opportune time for doing something: by-elections are traditionally an occasion for registering protest votes. 2 formal reason; cause: : it's the first time that I've had occasion to complain. verb formal cause (something): something vital must have occasioned this visit | : his death occasioned her much grief. PHRASES on occasion (or occasions) occasionally; from time to time: on occasion, the state was asked to intervene. rise to the occasion perform better than usual in response to a special situation or event: when it comes to the finals, they can rise to the occasion. take occasion archaic make use of an opportunity to do something: I shall here take occasion to propose a second observation. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin occasio(n-) 'juncture, reason', from occidere 'go down, set', from ob- 'towards' + cadere 'to fall'."

officially

"officially | əˈfɪʃəli | adverb in a formal and public way: on June 24 the election campaign will officially begin. • with the authority of the government or other organization: it was officially acknowledged that the economy was in recession. • in public and for official purposes but not necessarily so in reality: : there is a possibility he was murdered—officially, he died in a car smash. "

operatives

"operative | ˈɒp(ə)rətɪv | adjective 1 functioning or having effect: the transmitter is operative | the mining ban would remain operative. • (of a word) having the most significance in a phrase or sentence: I was madly—the operative word—in love. 2 relating to surgery: wounds needing operative treatment. noun 1 a worker, especially one in a manufacturing industry: the operatives clean the machines at the end of every shift. 2 mainly North American a secret agent or private detective: a CIA operative. DERIVATIVES operatively | ˈɒp(ə)rətɪvli | adverb operativeness noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from late Latin operativus, from Latin operat- 'done by labour', from the verb operari (see operate)."

organized

"organized | ˈɔːɡənʌɪzd | (British also organised) adjective arranged or structured in a systematic way: about 100 cyclists took part in the ride as part of organized protests over the dangers cyclists face on the road | without rules an organized society cannot hold together. • able to plan one's activities efficiently: she used to be so organized. • having formed a trade union or other political group: a repressive regime which crushed organized labour. "

orientals

"oriental | ɔːrɪˈɛnt(ə)l, ɒrɪˈɛnt(ə)l | (also Oriental) adjective 1 of, from, or characteristic of Asia, especially East Asia: oriental countries | oriental rugs. • (Oriental) Zoology relating to or denoting a zoogeographical region comprising Asia south of the Himalayas and Indonesia west of Wallace's line. Distinctive animals include pandas, gibbons, tree shrews, tarsiers, and moonrats. 2 (of a pearl or other jewel) orient. noun offensive a person of East Asian descent. DERIVATIVES orientally adverb ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin orientalis, from orient- (see orient). USAGE The term oriental has an out-of-date feel as a term denoting people from Asia; it tends to be associated with a rather offensive stereotype of the people and their customs as inscrutable and exotic. In US English Asian is the standard accepted term in modern use; in British English, where Asian tends to denote people from the Indian subcontinent, specific terms such as Chinese or Japanese are more likely to be used."

paralyzing

"paralyse | ˈparəlʌɪz | (US paralyze) verb cause (a person or part of the body) to become partly or wholly incapable of movement: Mrs Burrows had been paralysed by a stroke. • make (someone) unable to think or act normally, especially through panic or fear: some people are paralysed by the thought of failure. • stop (a system, place, or organization) from operating by causing disruption: the regional capital was paralysed by a general strike. DERIVATIVES paralysation | -ˈzeɪʃ(ə)n | (US paralyzation) noun ORIGIN early 19th century: from French paralyser, from paralysie 'paralysis'."

paralysis

"paralysis | pəˈralɪsɪs | noun (plural paralyses | pəˈralɪsiːz | ) the loss of the ability to move (and sometimes to feel anything) in part or most of the body, typically as a result of illness, poison, or injury: the fast-acting venom causes paralysis, breathing difficulties, and sometimes death | : a creeping paralysis accompanied by nausea and vomiting. • inability to act or function properly: the paralysis gripping the country. ORIGIN late Old English, via Latin from Greek paralusis, from paraluesthai 'be disabled at the side', from para 'beside' + luein 'loosen'."

particles

"particle | ˈpɑːtɪk(ə)l | noun 1 a minute portion of matter: tiny particles of dust. • (also subatomic particle, fundamental particle, or elementary particle) Physics any of numerous subatomic constituents of the physical world that interact with each other, including electrons, neutrinos, photons, and alpha particles. • Mathematics a hypothetical object having mass but no physical size. 2 the least possible amount: he agrees without hearing the least particle of evidence. 3 Grammar (in English) any of the class of words such as in, up, off, over, used with verbs to make phrasal verbs. • (in ancient Greek) any of a class of words used for contrast and emphasis, such as de and ge. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin particula 'little part', diminutive of pars, part-."

passivity

"passivity | paˈsɪvɪti | noun 1 acceptance of what happens, without active response or resistance: the perceived passivity of the populace is deceptive | the passivity of television watching. 2 Chemistry the state of inactivity of a metal made unreactive by a thin inert surface layer of oxide: nickel increases the overall passivity of the iron. "

pathological

"pathological | paθəˈlɒdʒɪk(ə)l | (North American also pathologic) adjective 1 relating to pathology: the interpretation of pathological studies. 2 involving or caused by a physical or mental disease: glands with a pathological abnormality. 3 informal compulsive; obsessive: a pathological gambler. "

pedestrian

"pedestrian | pɪˈdɛstrɪən | noun a person walking rather than travelling in a vehicle: the road is so dangerous pedestrians avoid it | : a pedestrian bridge. adjective lacking inspiration or excitement; dull: disenchantment with their pedestrian lives. DERIVATIVES pedestrianism | pɪˈdɛstrɪənɪz(ə)m | noun pedestrianly adverb ORIGIN early 18th century: from French pédestre or Latin pedester 'going on foot', also 'written in prose' + -ian. Early use in English was in the description of writing as 'prosaic'."

perfection

"perfection | pəˈfɛkʃ(ə)n | noun the state or quality of being perfect: the satiny perfection of her skin | his pursuit of golfing perfection. • a person or thing considered to be perfect: I am told that she is perfection itself. • the action or process of improving something until it is faultless: among the key tasks was the perfection of new mechanisms of economic management. PHRASES to perfection in a way that could not be better; perfectly: a blue suit that showed off her blonde hair to perfection. ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'completeness'): via Old French from Latin perfectio(n-), from perficere 'to complete' (see perfect)."

performed

"perform | pəˈfɔːm | verb 1 carry out, accomplish, or fulfil (an action, task, or function): I have my duties to perform. • work, function, or do something well or to a specified standard: the car performs well at low speeds | our £120 million investment in the company is not performing at present. • informal have successful or satisfactory sexual intercourse with someone: when I go to bed with any other woman I am quite unable to perform. 2 present (a form of entertainment) to an audience: the play has already been performed in Britain. • entertain an audience, typically by acting, singing, or dancing on stage: the band will be performing live in Hyde Park. DERIVATIVES performability | pəfɔːməˈbɪlɪti | noun performable | pəˈfɔːməb(ə)l | adjective performatory adjective & noun (plural performatories) ORIGIN Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French parfourmer, alteration (by association with forme 'form') of Old French parfournir, from par 'through, to completion' + fournir 'furnish, provide'."

peripheral

"peripheral | pəˈrɪf(ə)r(ə)l | adjective 1 relating to or situated on the edge or periphery of something: the peripheral areas of Europe. • of secondary or minor importance; marginal: she will see their problems as peripheral to her own. • Anatomy near the surface of the body, with special reference to the circulation and nervous system: lymphocytes from peripheral blood. 2 (of a device) able to be attached to and used with a computer, though not an integral part of it: a peripheral control processor. noun Computing a peripheral device: printers and other peripherals. DERIVATIVES peripherality | pərɪf(ə)ˈralɪti | noun peripherally | pəˈrɪf(ə)rəli | adverb "

permanent

"permanent | ˈpəːm(ə)nənt | adjective lasting or intended to last or remain unchanged indefinitely: a permanent ban on the dumping of radioactive waste at sea | damage was not thought to be permanent | some temporary workers did not want a permanent job. • lasting or continuing without interruption: he's in a permanent state of rage. noun North American a perm for the hair: a woman with a home permanent. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin permanent- 'remaining to the end' (perhaps via Old French), from per- 'through' + manere 'remain'."

personnel

"personnel | pəːsəˈnɛl | plural noun people employed in an organization or engaged in an organized undertaking such as military service: many of the personnel involved require training | sales personnel. • short for personnel department. ORIGIN early 19th century: from French (adjective used as a noun), contrasted with matériel 'equipment or materials used in an organization or undertaking'."

pharmacist

"pharmacist | ˈfɑːməsɪst | noun a person who is professionally qualified to prepare and dispense medicinal drugs. "

phenomenal

"phenomenal | fəˈnɒmɪn(ə)l | adjective 1 remarkable or exceptional, especially exceptionally good: the town expanded at a phenomenal rate. 2 perceptible by the senses or through immediate experience: the phenomenal world. "

philosophical

"philosophical | fɪləˈsɒfɪk(ə)l | (also philosophic) adjective 1 relating or devoted to the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence: philosophical discussions about free will | the Cambridge Philosophical Society. 2 having or showing a calm attitudetowards disappointments or difficulties: he was philosophical about losing the contract. "

photographs

"photograph | ˈfəʊtəɡrɑːf | noun a picture made using a camera, in which an image is focused on to light-sensitive material and then made visible and permanent by chemical treatment, or stored digitally: a photograph of her father. verb take a photograph of: she has photographed all of the major ballet companies worldwide | : he was commissioned to photograph in the Crimea during the war. • appear in a particular way when in a photograph: that cityscape photographs well. DERIVATIVES photographable adjective "

physician

"physician | fɪˈzɪʃ(ə)n | noun a person qualified to practise medicine, especially one who specializes in diagnosis and medical treatment as distinct from surgery: our family physician. • a person who cures moral or spiritual ills; a healer: physicians of the soul. PHRASES physician, heal thyself proverb before attempting to correct others, make sure that you aren't guilty of the same faults yourself. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French fisicien, based on Latin physica 'things relating to nature' (see physic)."

politically

"politically | pəˈlɪtɪkli | adverb in a way that relates to the government or public affairs of a country: Southeast Asia is divided politically into a number of nation-states. • in a way that relates to the political ideas or beliefs of a person or group: a politically neutral organization. "

positions

"position | pəˈzɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a place where someone or something is located or has been put: the distress call had given the ship's position | Mrs Snell took up her position on the bottom step of the stairs. • the correct location of someone or something: sew the band into position | make sure that no slates have slipped out of position. • (often positions) a place where part of a military force is posted for strategic purposes: the guns were shelling the German positions. 2 a particular way in which someone or something is placed or arranged: he moved himself into a reclining position | : cramp forced her to change position. • the configuration of the pieces and pawns on the board at any point in a game of chess. • Music a particular location of the hand on the fingerboard of a stringed instrument: be familiar with the first six positions across the four strings. • Music the arrangement of the constituent notes of a chord. 3 a situation, especially as it affects one's power to act: the company's financial position is grim | : we were not in a position to judge the merits of the case. • the state of being placed where one has an advantage over one's rivals or competitors: sleek motor launches jostled for position. • a person's place or level of importance in relation to others: he made up ground to finish in second position. • high rank or social standing: a woman of supposed wealth and position. • a job: she retired from her position as marketing director. • (in team games) a role assigned to a particular player based on the location in which they play: he looks best in central midfield, his own preferred position. 4 a person's point of view or attitude towards something: the party's position on abortion. 5 the extent to which an investor, dealer, or speculator has made a commitment in the market by buying or selling securities: traders were covering short positions. 6 Logic a proposition laid down or asserted; a tenet or assertion. verb put or arrange (someone or something) in a particular place or way: he pulled out a chair and positioned it between them | she positioned herself on a bench. • promote (a product, service, or business) within a particular sector of a market, or as the fulfilment of that sector's specific requirements: a development plan which will position the city as a major economic force in the region. • portray or regard (someone) as a particular type of person: I had positioned her as my antagonist. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin positio(n-), from ponere 'to place'. The current sense of the verb dates from the early 19th century."

possession

"possession | pəˈzɛʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the state of having, owning, or controlling something: she had taken possession of the sofa | the book came into my possession | he remains in full possession of his sanity. • Law visible power or control over something, as distinct from lawful ownership; holding or occupancy as distinct from ownership: the landlord wishes to gain possession of the accommodation. • informal the state of possessing an illegal drug: they're charged with possession. • (in soccer, rugby, and other ball games) temporary control of the ball by a player or team: the ball hit a defender and Brown's quick reaction put him in possession. 2 (usually possessions) something that is owned or possessed: I had no money or possessions | that photograph was Bert's most precious possession. • a territory or country controlled or governed by another: France's former colonial possessions. 3 the state of being controlled by a demon or spirit: they said prayers to protect the people inside the hall from demonic possession. • the state of being completely dominated by an idea or emotion: fear took possession of my soul. DERIVATIVES possessionless adjective ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French, from Latin possessio(n-), from the verb possidere (see possess)."

possibility

"possibility | ˌpɒsɪˈbɪlɪti | noun (plural possibilities) a thing that may happen or be the case: relegation remains a distinct possibility | : there was the possibility that he might be turned down. • the state or fact of being possible; likelihood: there is no possibility of any government achieving this level of expenditure. • a thing that may be chosen or done out of several possible alternatives: one possibility is to allow all firms to participate. • (possibilities) unspecified qualities of a promising nature; potential: the house was old but it had possibilities. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French possibilite, from late Latin possibilitas, from possibilis 'able to be done' (see possible)."

powerlessness

"powerlessness | ˈpaʊələsnəs | noun lack of ability, influence, or power: the feeling of powerlessness due to poverty | the minute I admitted powerlessness over my compulsion, I felt relief. "

practicing

"practise | ˈpraktɪs | (US practice) verb 1 perform (an activity) or exercise (a skill) repeatedly or regularly in order to acquire, improve or maintain proficiency in it: I need to practise my French | : they were practising for the Olympics. 2 carry out or perform (a particular activity, method, or custom) habitually or regularly: we still practise some of these rituals today. • actively pursue or be engaged in (a particular profession or occupation): he began to practise law | : he practised as a barrister. • observe the teaching and rules of (a particular religion). 3 archaic scheme or plot for an evil purpose: what a tangled web we weave when we first practise to deceive. PHRASES practise what one preaches do what one advises others to do. DERIVATIVES practiser (US practicer) noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French practiser or medieval Latin practizare, alteration of practicare 'perform, carry out', from practica 'practice', from Greek praktikē, feminine (used as a noun), of praktikos (see practical). USAGE On the difference between practise and practice, see usage at practice."

precision

"precision | prɪˈsɪʒ(ə)n | noun the quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate: the deal was planned and executed with military precision. • marked by or adapted for accuracy and exactness: a precision instrument. • technical refinement in a measurement, calculation, or specification, especially as represented by the number of digits given: a technique which examines and identifies each character with the highest level of precision | : a precision of six decimal figures. Compare with accuracy. DERIVATIVES precisionism noun precisionist noun & adjective ORIGIN mid 18th century: from French précision or Latin praecisio(n-), from praecidere 'cut off' (see precise)."

preferred

"prefer | prɪˈfəː | verb (prefers, preferring, preferred) 1 like (one thing or person) better than another or others; tend to choose: I prefer Venice to Rome | : I would prefer to discuss the matter in private | : Val would presumably prefer that you didn't get arrested. 2 formal submit (a charge or a piece of information) for consideration: the police will prefer charges. 3 archaic promote or advance (someone) to a prestigious position: he was eventually preferred to the bishopric of Durham. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French preferer, from Latin praeferre, from prae 'before' + ferre 'to bear, carry'."

preparing

"prepare | prɪˈpɛː | verb 1 make (something) ready for use or consideration: prepare a brief summary of the article. • make (food or a meal) ready for cooking or eating: she was busy preparing lunch. • make (a substance) by a chemical reaction or series of reactions: alkanes may be prepared by the removal of carbon dioxide from the corresponding carboxylic acid. 2 make (someone) ready or able to do or deal with something: schools should prepare children for life | : she took time off to prepare for her exams. • (be prepared to do something) be willing to do something: I wasn't prepared to go along with that. 3 Music (in conventional harmony) lead up to (a discord) by means of preparation. ORIGIN late Middle English: from French préparer or Latin praeparare, from prae 'before' + parare 'make ready'."

prescribed

"prescribe | prɪˈskrʌɪb | verb 1 (of a medical practitioner) advise and authorize the use of (a medicine or treatment) for someone, especially in writing: her doctor prescribed sleeping tablets | : he was prescribed a course of antibiotics. • recommend (a substance or action) as something beneficial: marriage is often prescribed as a universal remedy. 2 state authoritatively or as a rule that (an action or procedure) should be carried out: rules prescribing five acts for a play are purely arbitrary. DERIVATIVES prescribable adjective prescriber noun ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'confine within bounds', also as a legal term meaning 'claim by prescription'): from Latin praescribere 'direct in writing', from prae 'before' + scribere 'write'. USAGE The verbs prescribe and proscribe do not have the same meaning. Prescribe is a much commoner word and means either 'issue a medical prescription' or 'recommend with authority', as in the doctor prescribed antibiotics. Proscribe, on the other hand, is a formal word meaning 'condemn or forbid', as in gambling was strictly proscribed by the authorities."

prescription

"prescription | prɪˈskrɪpʃ(ə)n | noun 1 an instruction written by a medical practitioner that authorizes a patient to be issued with a medicine or treatment: he scribbled a prescription for tranquillizers | : the lotion is available on prescription. • the action of prescribing a medicine or treatment: the unnecessary prescription of antibiotics. • a medicine or remedy that is prescribed: I've got to pick up my prescription from the chemist's. 2 a recommendation that is authoritatively put forward: effective prescriptions for sustaining rural communities. • the authoritative recommendation of an action or procedure: rather than prescription there would be guidance. 3 (also positive prescription) Law the establishment of a claim founded on the basis of a long or indefinite period of uninterrupted use or of long-standing custom. ORIGIN late Middle English (as a legal term): via Old French from Latin praescriptio(n-), from the verb praescribere (see prescribe). prescription (sense 1) dates from the late 16th century."

presenting

"present2 | prɪˈzɛnt | verb 1 give or award formally or ceremonially: the duke presented certificates to the men | a local celebrity will present the prizes. • (present someone with) give someone (a gift or award) in a formal or ceremonial way: my pupils presented me with some flowers. • show or offer (something) for others to scrutinize or consider: he stopped and presented his passport. • formally deliver (a cheque or bill) for acceptance or payment: a cheque presented by Mr Jackson was returned by the bank. • Law bring (a complaint, petition, or evidence) formally to the notice of a court: the psychological evidence was presented in court. 2 formally introduce (someone) to someone else: may I present my wife? • (present oneself) appear formally before others: he failed to present himself in court. • (present itself) (of an opportunity or idea) occur and be available for use or exploitation: when a favourable opportunity presented itself he would submit his proposition. • (present someone to) (in church use) recommend an ordained minister to a bishop for institution to (a benefice). 3 introduce or announce the various items of (a broadcast show) as a participant: the Late Show was presented by Cynthia Rose. • (of a company or producer) put (a show or exhibition) before the public. 4 exhibit (a particular state or appearance) to others: the EC presented a united front over the crisis. • be the cause of (a problem or difficulty): the suspect may present a danger to himself or others. • represent (someone or something) to others in a particular way: the prime minister presented himself as a radical figure. • exhibit the outward or physical appearance of a specified gender: at that time she was presenting as male and was hired with a traditionally male first name. 5 (often present with) Medicine (of a patient) come forward for initial medical examination for a particular condition or symptom: the patient presented with mild clinical encephalopathy. • (of an illness) manifest itself. 6 Medicine (of a part of a fetus) be directed towards the cervix during labour. 7 hold out or aim (a firearm) at something so as to be ready to fire: they were to present their rifles, take aim, and fire. noun (the present) the position of a firearm when aimed or held ready to be aimed, especially the position from which a rifle is fired. PHRASES present arms hold a rifle vertically in front of the body as a salute. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French presenter, from Latin praesentare 'place before' (in medieval Latin 'present as a gift'), from praesent- 'being at hand' (see present1)."

president

"president | ˈprɛzɪd(ə)nt | noun 1 the elected head of a republican state: the Irish president | : President Kennedy. • the head of a society, council, or other organization: the president of the European Union. • the head of certain colleges. • North American the head of a university. • North American the head of a company. 2 Christian Church the celebrant at a Eucharist. ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin praesident- 'sitting before' (see preside)."

pressures

"pressure | ˈprɛʃə | noun 1 continuous physical force exerted on or against an object by something in contact with it: the gate was buckling under the pressure of the crowd outside. • the force per unit area exerted by a fluid against a surface with which it is in contact: gas can be fed to the turbines at a pressure of around 250 psi. 2 the use of persuasion or intimidation to make someone do something: backbenchers put pressure on the government to provide safeguards | : the many pressures on girls to worry about their looks. • the influence or effect of someone or something: oil prices came under some downwards pressure. • a sense of stressful urgency caused by having too many demands on one's time or resources: he resigned due to pressure of work | : the pressures of city life. verb attempt to persuade or coerce (someone) into doing something: it might be possible to pressure him into resigning | : she pressured her son to accept a job offer from the bank. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin pressura, from press- 'pressed', from the verb premere (see press1)."

principles

"principle | ˈprɪnsɪp(ə)l | noun 1 a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behaviour or for a chain of reasoning: the basic principles of justice. • (usually principles) a rule or belief governing one's behaviour: struggling to be true to their own principles | : she resigned over a matter of principle. • morally correct behaviour and attitudes: a man of principle. 2 a general scientific theorem or law that has numerous special applications across a wide field. • a natural law forming the basis for the construction or working of a machine: these machines all operate on the same general principle. 3 a fundamental source or basis of something: the first principle of all things was water. • a fundamental quality determining the nature of something: the combination of male and female principles. • Chemistry an active or characteristic constituent of a substance, obtained by simple analysis or separation: the active principle of Spanish fly. PHRASES in principle as a general idea or plan, although the details are not yet established: the government agreed in principle to a peace plan that included a ceasefire. • used to indicate that although something is theoretically possible, in reality it may not actually happen: in principle, the banks are entitled to withdraw these loans when necessary. on principle because of or in order to demonstrate one's adherence to a particular belief: he refused, on principle, to pay the fine. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin principium 'source', principia (plural) 'foundations', from princeps, princip- 'first, chief'. USAGE The words principle and principal are pronounced in the same way but they do not have the same meaning. Principle is normally used as a noun meaning 'a fundamental basis of a system of thought or belief', as in this is one of the basic principles of democracy. Principal, on the other hand, is normally an adjective meaning 'main or most important', as in one of the country's principal cities. Principal can also be a noun, where it is used to refer to the most senior or most important person in an organization or other group: the deputy principal."

processes

"process1 | ˈprəʊsɛs | noun 1 a series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end: military operations could jeopardize the peace process. • a natural series of changes: the ageing process. • a systematic series of mechanized or chemical operations that are performed in order to produce something: the manufacturing process is relatively simple. • Computing an instance of a program being executed in a multitasking operating system, typically running in an environment that protects it from other processes. • Printing relating to or denoting printing using ink in three colours (cyan, magenta, and yellow) and black to produce a complete range of colour: process inks. 2 Law a summons or writ requiring a person to appear in court. 3 Biology & Anatomy a natural appendage or outgrowth on or in an organism, such as a protuberance on a bone. verb perform a series of mechanical or chemical operations on (something) in order to change or preserve it: the salmon is quickly processed after harvest to preserve the flavour. • deal with (someone or something) using an official procedure: the immigration authorities who processed him. • Computing operate on (data) by means of a program. PHRASES be in the process of doing something be continuing with an action already started: I was in the process of buying a house. in the process as an unintended part of a course of action: she would make him pay for this, even if she killed herself in the process. in process of time as time goes on: daughters and sons may find themselves, in process of time, caring for their elderly parents. DERIVATIVES processable adjective ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French proces, from Latin processus 'progression, course', from the verb procedere (see proceed). Current senses of the verb date from the late 19th century."

producing

"produce verb | prəˈdjuːs | 1 make or manufacture from components or raw materials: the company have just produced a luxury version of the aircraft. • (of a place or process) yield, grow, or supply: the vineyards in the Val d'Or produce excellent wines. • create or form (something) as part of a physical, biological, or chemical process: the plant produces blue flowers in late autumn. • make (something) using creative skills: the garden where the artist produced many of his flower paintings. 2 cause (a particular result or situation) to happen or exist: no conventional drugs had produced any significant change. 3 show or provide (something) for consideration, inspection, or use: he produced a sheet of paper from his pocket. 4 administer the financial and managerial aspects of (a film or broadcast) or the staging of (a play, opera, etc.): the video was produced and directed by film-maker Neil Campbell. • supervise the making of (a musical recording), especially by determining the overall sound: the album was produced by reggae master mixer Groucho Smykle. 5 Geometry, dated extend or continue (a line): one side of the triangle was produced. noun | ˈprɒdjuːs | agricultural and other natural products collectively: dairy produce. • the result of a person's work or efforts: the work was in some degree the produce of their joint efforts. DERIVATIVES producibility | prəˌdjuːsɪˈbɪlɪti | noun producible | prəˈdjuːsəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English (in produce (sense 3 of the verb)): from Latin producere, from pro- 'forward' + ducere 'to lead'. Current noun senses date from the late 17th century."

productions

"production | prəˈdʌkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of making or manufacturing from components or raw materials, or the process of being so manufactured: banning the production of chemical weapons | the car is no longer in production. • the harvesting or refinement of something natural: non-intensive methods of food production. • the total amount of something that is produced: steel production had peaked in 1974. • the creation of something as part of a physical, biological, or chemical process: excess production of collagen by the liver. • denoting a car or other vehicle which has been manufactured in large numbers, as opposed to a prototype or other special version: a production model. 2 the provision of something for consideration, inspection, or use: members are entitled to a discount on production of their membership card. 3 the process of or management involved in making a film, play, or record: the film was still in production. • a film, record, play, etc., viewed in terms of its making or staging: an exciting new production of La Traviata. • the overall sound of a musical recording, as determined by the way in which it is produced: the record's production is gloriously relaxed. PHRASES make a production of informal do (something) in an unnecessarily complicated way: I don't know why she made such a production of it. DERIVATIVES productional adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin productio(n-), from producere 'bring forth' (see produce)."

professor

"professor | prəˈfɛsə | noun 1 (North American also full professor) a university academic of the highest rank; the holder of a university chair: : Professor Goodwin | a professor of Art History. • North American an associate professor or an assistant professor. 2 a person who affirms a faith in or allegiance to something: the professors of true religion. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin professor, from profess- 'declared publicly', from the verb profiteri (see profess)."

progression

"progression | prəˈɡrɛʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the process of developing or moving gradually towards a more advanced state: good opportunities for career progression | : a steady progression towards your goals. • Music a passage or movement from one note or chord to another: a blues progression. • Astrology a predictive technique in which the daily movement of the planets, starting from the day of birth, represents a year in the subject's life. 2 a number of things in a series: the vista unfolds in a progression of castles and vineyards as seemingly endless as the Rhine itself. DERIVATIVES progressional adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin progressio(n-), from the verb progredi (see progress)."

pronounce

"pronounce | prəˈnaʊns | verb 1 make the sound of (a word or part of a word) in the correct or a particular way: Gerry pronounced the hero's name 'Cahoolin' | a company whose name no one could pronounce. 2 declare or announce in a formal or solemn way: allow history to pronounce the verdict | : she was pronounced dead at the scene | : Asquith pronounced that this was the right course. • (pronounce on) pass judgement or make a decision on: the Secretary of State will shortly pronounce on alternative measures. DERIVATIVES pronounceability | prənaʊnsəˈbɪlɪti | noun pronounceable | prəˈnaʊnsəb(ə)l | adjective pronouncer noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French pronuncier, from Latin pronuntiare, from pro- 'out, forth' + nuntiare 'announce' (from nuntius 'messenger')."

prostheses

"prosthesis | prɒsˈθiːsɪs, ˈprɒsθɪˌsɪs | noun (plural prostheses | -siːz | ) 1 an artificial body part, such as a limb, a heart, or a breast implant: his upper jaw was removed and a prosthesis was fitted. 2 Linguistics the addition of a letter or syllable at the beginning of a word, as in Spanish escuela derived from Latin scola. ORIGIN mid 16th century (in prosthesis (sense 2)): via late Latin from Greek prosthesis, from prostithenai, from pros 'in addition' + tithenai 'to place'."

protected

"protected | prəˈtɛktɪd | adjective preserved from harm, especially by means of formal or legal measures: medical facilities have a special protected status under international law. • (of a threatened species or area) covered by legislation controlling hunting, collection, or development: bears are a protected species in Michigan and cannot be shot unless they pose an immediate threat | a protected bird of prey has been found dead in Bedfordshire | logging is continuing in protected areas in violation of an international agreement. • Law, British denoting a tenancy agreement that gives the tenant specific protection against eviction or any rent rises that fall outside certain strict guidelines: the flat is occupied by an elderly resident under a protected tenancy. • denoting sexual activity performed using a condom or other form of protection against sexually transmitted infection. "

protruded

"protrude | prəˈtruːd | verb extend beyond or above a surface: something like a fin protruded from the water. • (of an animal) cause (a body part) to protrude: when attacking, it protrudes its long snout. DERIVATIVES protrudent adjective ORIGIN early 17th century (in the sense 'thrust something forward or onward'): from Latin protrudere, from pro- 'forward, out' + trudere 'to thrust'."

provident

"provident | ˈprɒvɪd(ə)nt | adjective making or indicative of timely preparation for the future: she had learned to be provident. DERIVATIVES providently | ˈprɒvɪd(ə)ntli | adverb ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin provident- 'foreseeing, attending to', from the verb providere (see provide)."

provincial

"provincial | prəˈvɪnʃ(ə)l | adjective 1 of or concerning a province of a country or empire: provincial elections. 2 of or concerning the regions outside the capital city of a country, especially when regarded as unsophisticated or narrow-minded: provincial towns | the whole exhibition struck one as being very provincial. noun 1 an inhabitant of a province of a country or empire. • (provincials) (in Canada) sporting contests held between teams representing the country's administrative divisions. 2 an inhabitant of the regions outside the capital city of a country, especially when regarded as unsophisticated or narrow-minded: a town populated by money-grubbers, philistines, and self-satisfied provincials. • (provincials) British local newspapers, as contrasted with national ones. 3 Christian Church the head or chief of a province or of a religious order in a province. DERIVATIVES provinciality noun provincialization noun provincialize (British also provincialise) verb provincially | prəˈvɪnʃ(ə)li | adverb ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin provincialis 'belonging to a province' (see province)."

realizing

"realize | ˈrɪəlʌɪz | (British also realise) verb 1 become fully aware of (something) as a fact; understand clearly: he realized his mistake at once | : they realized that something was wrong. 2 cause to happen: his worst fears have been realized. • achieve (something desired or anticipated); fulfil: it is only now that she is beginning to realize her potential. 3 give actual or physical form to: the stage designs have been beautifully realized. • use (a linguistic feature) in a particular spoken or written form: the item can be realized with a fully low front vowel. • Music add to or complete (a piece of music left sparsely notated by the composer): other reconstruction work has involved realizing short score into full score. 4 make (a profit) from a transaction: she realized a profit of $100,000. • be sold for: the drawings are expected to realize £500,000. • convert (an asset) into cash: he realized all the assets in her trust fund. DERIVATIVES realizer (British also realiser) noun ORIGIN early 17th century: from real1, on the pattern of French réaliser."

receptacles

"receptacle | rɪˈsɛptək(ə)l | noun 1 a hollow object used to contain something: fast-food receptacles. 2 North American an electrical socket. 3 mainly Zoology an organ or structure which receives a secretion, eggs, sperm, etc. 4 Botany an enlarged area at the apex of a stem on which the parts of a flower or the florets of a flower head are inserted. • a structure supporting the sexual organs in some algae, mosses, and liverworts. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin receptaculum, from receptare 'receive back', frequentative of recipere (see receive)."

reception

"reception | rɪˈsɛpʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action or process of receiving something sent, given, or inflicted: sensation is not the passive reception of stimuli. • the way in which a person or group of people reacts to someone or something: the election budget got a stony reception in the City. 2 a formal social occasion held to welcome someone or to celebrate an event: a wedding reception. • the formal or ceremonious welcoming of a guest: his reception by the Prime Minister. • the action of admitting someone to a place, group, or institution or the process of being admitted: their reception into the Church. 3 the process of receiving broadcast signals: a microchip that will allow parents to block reception of violent programmes. • the quality of broadcast signals received: I had to put up with poor radio reception. 4 mainly British the area in a hotel or organization where guests and visitors are greeted and dealt with: wait for me downstairs in reception | : the reception desk. 5 British the first class in an infant or primary school: my son is in reception | : the reception class. 6 American Football an act of catching a pass: his 49 receptions included six touchdowns. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin receptio(n-), from the verb recipere (see receive)."

recognized

"recognize | ˈrɛkəɡnʌɪz | (British also recognise) verb 1 identify (someone or something) from having encountered them before; know again: I recognized her when her wig fell off | Julia hardly recognized Jill when they met. • identify from knowledge of appearance or character: Pat is very good at recognizing wild flowers. • (of a computer or other machine) automatically identify and respond correctly to (a sound, printed character, etc.): Dr Friedman is programming his computer to recognize the shapes of strokes in the hands of various writers. 2 acknowledge the existence, validity, or legality of: the defence is recognized in British law | he was recognized as an international authority. • show official appreciation of; reward formally: his work was recognized by an honorary degree from Glasgow University. • officially regard (a qualification) as valid or proper: these qualifications are recognized by the Department of Education. • grant diplomatic recognition to (a country or government): countries which recognized East Germany | they were refusing to recognize the puppet regime. • (of a person presiding at a meeting or debate) call on (someone) to speak. DERIVATIVES recognizer (British also recogniser) noun ORIGIN late Middle English (earliest attested as a term in Scots law): from Old French reconniss-, stem of reconnaistre, from Latin recognoscere 'know again, recall to mind', from re- 'again' + cognoscere 'learn'."

recovered

"recover | rɪˈkʌvə | verb 1 return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength: Neil is still recovering from shock | the economy has begun to recover. • (be recovered) (of a person) be well again: you'll be fully recovered before you know it. 2 find or regain possession of (something stolen or lost): police recovered a stolen video. • regain control of (oneself or of a physical or mental state): he recovered his balance and sped on. • regain or secure (money spent or lost or compensation) by legal process or the making of profits: many companies recovered their costs within six months. • make up for (a loss in position or time): the French recovered the lead. 3 remove or extract (an energy source or industrial chemical) for use, reuse, or waste treatment: only 13 per cent of CFC refrigerant was being recovered from domestic fridges. noun (the recover) a defined position of a firearm forming part of a military drill: bring the firelock to the recover. DERIVATIVES recoverer noun ORIGIN Middle English (originally with reference to health): from Anglo-Norman French recoverer, from Latin recuperare 'get again'."

reflected

"reflect | rɪˈflɛkt | verb 1 (of a surface or body) throw back (heat, light, or sound) without absorbing it: when the sun's rays hit the Earth a lot of the heat is reflected back into space. • (of a mirror or shiny surface) show an image of: he could see himself reflected in Keith's mirrored glasses. • embody or represent (something) in a faithful or appropriate way: schools should reflect cultural differences. • (of an action or situation) bring (credit or discredit) to the relevant parties: the main contract is progressing well, which reflects great credit on those involved. • (reflect well/badly on) bring about a good or bad impression of: the incident reflects badly on the operating practices of the airlines. 2 (usually reflect on/upon) think deeply or carefully about: he reflected with sadness on the unhappiness of his marriage | : Charles reflected that maybe there was hope for the family after all. • archaic make disparaging remarks about: the clergy were strictly charged not to reflect on the Catholic religion in their discourses. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French reflecter or Latin reflectere, from re- 'back' + flectere 'to bend'."

reflections

"reflection | rɪˈflɛkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the throwing back by a body or surface of light, heat, or sound without absorbing it: the reflection of light. • an amount of light, heat, or sound that is reflected by a body or surface: the reflections from the street lamps gave them just enough light. • an image seen in a mirror or shiny surface: Marianne surveyed her reflection in the mirror. • a thing that is a consequence of or arises from something else: a healthy skin is a reflection of good health in general. • a thing bringing discredit to someone or something: it was a sad reflection on society that because of his affliction he was picked on. 2 serious thought or consideration: he doesn't get much time for reflection. • an idea about something, especially one that is written down or expressed: reflections on human destiny and art. 3 Mathematics the conceptual operation of inverting a system or event with respect to a plane, each element being transferred perpendicularly through the plane to a point the same distance the other side of it. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French reflexion or late Latin reflexio(n-), from Latin reflex- 'bent back', from the verb reflectere."

regularly

"regularly | ˈrɛɡjələli | adverb 1 with a constant or definite pattern, especially with the same space between individual items: regularly spaced buildings | leaves arranged regularly along the stem. 2 at uniform intervals of time: the reunion has taken place regularly every two years. • frequently: make a point of regularly consulting the noticeboard | a regularly updated news page. 3 on a habitual basis; usually: the person who regularly cuts your hair. 4 Grammar in a way that follows the normal pattern of inflection: a regularly inflected plural noun. "

regulation

"regulation | rɛɡjʊˈleɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a rule or directive made and maintained by an authority: planning regulations. • in accordance with regulations; of the correct type: regulation army footwear. • informal of a familiar or predictable type; formulaic: a regulation Western parody. 2 the action or process of regulating or being regulated: the regulation of financial markets. "

relations

"relation | rɪˈleɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the way in which two or more people or things are connected; a thing's effect on or relevance to another: questions about the relation between writing and reality | the size of the targets bore no relation to their importance. • (relations) the way in which two or more people or groups feel about and behave towards each other: the improvement in relations between the two countries | the meetings helped cement Anglo-American relations. • (relations) formal sexual intercourse: we had stopped having relations of any kind | they can take vows of chastity, and give up sexual relations entirely. 2 a person who is connected by blood or marriage; a relative: he has no close relations. 3 the action of telling a story. PHRASES in relation to in the context of; in connection with: there is an ambiguity in the provisions in relation to children's hearings. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin relatio(n-), from referre 'bring back' (see relate)."

reluctant

"reluctant | rɪˈlʌkt(ə)nt | adjective unwilling and hesitant; disinclined: : she seemed reluctant to answer. ORIGIN mid 17th century (in the sense 'writhing, offering opposition'): from Latin reluctant- 'struggling against', from the verb reluctari, from re- (expressing intensive force) + luctari 'to struggle'."

remembered

"remember | rɪˈmɛmbə | verb 1 have in or be able to bring to one's mind an awareness of (someone or something from the past): I remember the screech of the horn as the car came towards me | no one remembered his name. • bear (someone) in mind by making them a gift or making provision for them: he has remembered the boy in his will. • pray for the well-being of: the congress should be remembered in our prayers. • (remember someone to) convey greetings from one person to (another): remember me to Charlie. • (remember oneself) recover one's manners after a lapse: she remembered herself and sat up straighter. 2 do something that one has undertaken to do or that is necessary or advisable: did you remember to post the letters? • used to emphasize the importance of what is asserted: you must remember that this is a secret. DERIVATIVES rememberer noun ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French remembrer, from late Latin rememorari 'call to mind', from re- (expressing intensive force) + Latin memor 'mindful'."

repeating

"repeating | rɪˈpiːtɪŋ | adjective 1 (of a firearm) capable of firing several shots in succession without reloading. 2 (of a pattern) recurring uniformly over a surface. "

repetition

"repetition | rɛpɪˈtɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the action of repeating something that has already been said or written: her comments are worthy of repetition | : a repetition of his reply to the delegation. • archaic a piece set by a teacher to be learned by heart and recited. 2 the recurrence of an action or event: there was to be no repetition of the interwar years | : I didn't want a repetition of the scene in my office that morning. • a thing repeated: the geometric repetitions of Islamic art. • a training exercise which is repeated, especially a series of repeated raisings and lowerings of the weight in weight training: lie on your back and bench-press a light weight very quickly over ten repetitions. • Music the repeating of a passage or note: the tune is full of melodic repetition and sequence. DERIVATIVES repetitional adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French repeticion or Latin repetitio(n-), from repetere (see repeat)."

represent

"represent | rɛprɪˈzɛnt | verb 1 be entitled or appointed to act or speak for (someone), especially in an official capacity: for purposes of litigation, an infant can and must be represented by an adult. • (of a competitor) participate in a sporting event on behalf of (one's club, town, region, or country): Wade represented Great Britain. • be an elected Member of Parliament or member of a legislature for (a particular constituency or party): she became the first woman to represent a South Wales mining valley. • act as a substitute for (someone), especially on an official occasion: the Duke of Edinburgh was represented by the Countess Mountbatten. 2 constitute; amount to: this figure represents eleven per cent of the company's total sales. • be a specimen or example of; typify: twenty parents, picked to represent a cross section of Scottish life. • (be represented) be present in something to a particular degree: abstraction is well represented in this exhibition. 3 depict (a particular subject) in a work of art: santos are small wooden figures representing saints. • describe or portray in a particular way: the young were consistently represented as being in need of protection. • (of a sign or symbol) have a particular signification; stand for: numbers 1-15 represent the red balls. • be a symbol or embodiment of: the three heads of Cerberus represent the past, present, and future. • play (a role) in a theatrical production. 4 formal state or point out clearly: it was represented to him that she would be an unsuitable wife. • allege; claim: the vendors have represented that such information is accurate. DERIVATIVES representability | rɛprɪzɛntəˈbɪlɪti | noun representable | ˌrɛprɪˈzɛntəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French representer or Latin repraesentare, from re- (expressing intensive force) + praesentare 'to present'."

resembling

"resemble | rɪˈzɛmb(ə)l | verb have a similar appearance to or qualities in common with (someone or something); look or seem like: some people resemble their dogs | they resembled each other closely. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French resembler, based on Latin similare (from similis 'like')."

residence

"residence | ˈrɛzɪd(ə)ns | noun a person's home, especially a large and impressive one: the youth hostel has been adapted from a private residence. • the official home of a government minister or other public or official figure: the palace was designated the official residence of the head of state. • the fact of living in a particular place: Rome was his main place of residence | she took up residence in Paris. PHRASES in residence living in a particular place: the guests currently in residence at the hotel. • (— in residence) a person with a particular occupation (especially an artist or writer) paid to work in a college or other institution: he is the current artist in residence at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital. ORIGIN late Middle English (denoting the fact of living in a place): from Old French, or from medieval Latin residentia, from Latin residere 'remain' (see reside)."

resistance

"resistance | rɪˈzɪst(ə)ns | noun 1 the refusal to accept or comply with something: they displayed a narrow-minded resistance to change. • the use of force or violence to oppose someone or something: government forces were unable to crush guerrilla-style resistance | she put up no resistance to being led away. • (also resistance movement) a secret organization resisting authority, especially in an occupied country: he went underground and joined the resistance. • (the Resistance) the underground movement formed in France during the Second World War to fight the German occupying forces and the Vichy government. Also called maquis. 2 the ability not to be affected by something, especially adversely: some of us have a lower resistance to cold than others. • Medicine & Biology lack of sensitivity to a drug, insecticide, etc., especially as a result of continued exposure or genetic change: many insects show resistance to at least one chemical. 3 the impeding or stopping effect exerted by one material thing on another: air resistance was reduced by streamlining. 4 the degree to which a substance or device opposes the passage of an electric current, causing energy dissipation. By Ohm's law resistance (measured in ohms) is equal to the voltage divided by the current. • a resistor or other circuit component which opposes the passage of an electric current. PHRASES the path of least resistance (also mainly British the line of least resistance) an option avoiding difficulty or unpleasantness; the easiest course of action: as one who shies away from confrontation, I generally choose the path of least resistance | he was easily deflected from his purpose and always chose the line of least resistance. ORIGIN late Middle English: from French résistance, from late Latin resistentia, from the verb resistere 'hold back' (see resist)."

respected

"respected | rɪˈspɛktɪd | adjective deeply admired or esteemed: a respected academic. "

responses

"response | rɪˈspɒns | noun 1 a verbal or written answer: there was laughter at his response to the question | : we received 400 applications in response to one job ad. • an answer to a question in a test, questionnaire, etc.: table 3.1 shows the mean number of correct responses given by each age group. • (usually responses) a part of a religious liturgy said or sung by a congregation in answer to a minister or cantor. 2 a reaction to something: an extended, jazzy piano solo drew the biggest response from the crowd | : an Honours degree course in Japanese has been established in response to an increasing demand. • Psychology & Physiology an excitation of a nerve impulse caused by a change or event; a physical reaction to a specific stimulus or situation: we unwittingly induce Pavlovian-type responses in dogs by establishing a rigid routine for feeding | there is considerable species variation in the stomach's response to alcohol. • the way in which a mechanical or electrical device responds to a stimulus or stimuli: the throttle response from the 1870 cc engine is almost petrol sharp. • Bridge a bid made in answer to one's partner's preceding bid. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French respons or Latin responsum 'something offered in return', neuter past participle of respondere (see respond)."

restrained

"restrained | rɪˈstreɪnd | adjective characterized by reserve or moderation; unemotional or dispassionate: his restrained, gentlemanly voice. • (of colour, decoration, etc.) not excessively showy or ornate; understated: the drawings, with their restrained colours, give a feeling of peace and contemplation. • kept under control: a patch of land turned into a restrained wilderness. • held in place (used especially of a person in a vehicle secured by a seat belt): the head and chest injuries that even restrained drivers can suffer through impact with the steering wheel. DERIVATIVES restrainedly adverb "

restriction

"restriction | rɪˈstrɪkʃ(ə)n | noun (often restrictions) a limiting condition or measure, especially a legal one: planning restrictions on commercial development. • the limitation or control of someone or something, or the state of being restricted: the restriction of local government power. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin restrictio(n-), from restringere 'bind fast, confine' (see restrict)."

rhetorical

"rhetorical | rɪˈtɒrɪk(ə)l | adjective 1 relating to or concerned with the art of rhetoric: repetition is a common rhetorical device. • expressed in terms intended to persuade or impress: the rhetorical commitment of the government to give priority to primary education. 2 (of a question) asked in order to produce an effect or to make a statement rather than to elicit information: the general intended his question to be purely rhetorical. ORIGIN late Middle English (first used in the sense 'eloquently expressed'): via Latin from Greek rhētorikos (from rhētor 'rhetor') + -al."

satisfaction

"satisfaction | satɪsˈfakʃ(ə)n | noun 1 fulfilment of one's wishes, expectations, or needs, or the pleasure derived from this: I looked round with satisfaction | managing directors seeking greater job satisfaction. 2 Law the payment of a debt or fulfilment of an obligation or claim: in full and final satisfaction of the claim. • what is felt to be owed or due to one, especially in reparation of an injustice or wrong: the work will come to a halt if the electricity and telephone people don't get satisfaction. • historical the opportunity to defend one's honour in a duel: I demand the satisfaction of a gentleman. 3 Christian Theology Christ's atonement for sin. PHRASES to one's satisfaction so that one is satisfied: some amendments were made, not entirely to his satisfaction. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin satisfactio(n-), from satisfacere 'satisfy, content' (see satisfy). The earliest recorded use referred to the last part of religious penance after 'contrition' and 'confession': this involved fulfilment of the observance required by the confessor, in contrast with the current meaning 'fulfilment of one's own expectations'."

schedules

"schedule | ˈʃɛdjuːl, ˈskɛdjuːl | noun 1 a plan for carrying out a process or procedure, giving lists of intended events and times: we have drawn up an engineering schedule. • (usually one's schedule) one's day-to-day plans or timetable: take a moment out of your busy schedule. • a timetable: information on airline schedules. 2 mainly Law an appendix to a formal document or statute, especially as a list, table, or inventory: they need a clear schedule of fixtures and fittings. 3 (with reference to the British system of income tax) any of the forms (named 'A', 'B', etc.) issued for completion and relating to the various classes into which taxable income is divided. verb 1 arrange or plan (an event) to take place at a particular time: the release of the single is scheduled for April. • make arrangements for (someone or something) to do something: : he is scheduled to be released from prison this spring. 2 British include (a building or site) in a list for legal preservation or protection: Cowley Bridge has already been scheduled and protected as an ancient monument. PHRASES ahead of (or behind) schedule earlier (or later) than planned or expected: work finished an astonishing twelve days ahead of schedule | I'm behind schedule as it is. to (or on or according to) schedule on time; as planned or expected: the filming was still on schedule. DERIVATIVES schedular adjective ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'scroll, explanatory note, appendix'): from Old French cedule, from late Latin schedula 'slip of paper', diminutive of scheda, from Greek skhedē 'papyrus leaf'. The verb dates from the mid 19th century."

scholarly

"scholarly | ˈskɒləli | adjective involving or relating to serious academic study: scholarly journals | a scholarly career. • having or showing knowledge, learning, or devotion to academic pursuits: a scholarly account of the period | an earnest, scholarly man. DERIVATIVES scholarliness | ˈskɒləlɪnəs | noun "

seductive

"seductive | sɪˈdʌktɪv | adjective tempting and attractive; enticing: a seductive voice. DERIVATIVES seductiveness | sɪˈdʌktɪvnəs | noun ORIGIN mid 18th century: from seduction, on the pattern of pairs such as induction, inductive."

sentiment

"sentiment | ˈsɛntɪm(ə)nt | noun 1 a view or opinion that is held or expressed: I agree with your sentiments regarding the road bridge. • general feeling or opinion: public sentiment was on the side of reform. • a feeling or emotion: an intense sentiment of horror. • archaic the expression of a view or desire especially as formulated for a toast. 2 exaggerated and self-indulgent feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia: many of the appeals rely on treacly sentiment. ORIGIN late Middle English (in the senses 'personal experience' and 'physical feeling, sensation'): from Old French sentement, from medieval Latin sentimentum, from Latin sentire 'feel'."

separatism

"separatism | ˈsɛp(ə)rətɪz(ə)m | noun the advocacy or practice of separation of a certain group of people from a larger body on the basis of ethnicity, religion, or gender: Basque separatism. "

seriously

"seriously | ˈsɪərɪəsli | adverb 1 in a solemn or considered manner: the doctor looked seriously at him. 2 with earnest intent; not lightly or superficially: I seriously considered cancelling my subscription. • really or sincerely: do you seriously believe that I would jeopardize my career by such acts? • used to add sincerity to a statement, especially after a facetious exchange of remarks: seriously though, short cuts rarely work. 3 to a degree that is significant or worrying: the amount of fat you eat can seriously affect your health | : three men are seriously ill in hospital. 4 informal very; extremely: he was seriously rich. PHRASES take someone/something seriously regard someone or something as important and worthy of attention: such threats have to be taken seriously | he takes himself too seriously. "

shattering

"shattering | ˈʃat(ə)rɪŋ | adjective very shocking or upsetting: he found it a shattering experience. DERIVATIVES shatteringly adverb "

shuddering

"shuddering | ˈʃʌdərɪŋ | adjective characterized or accompanied by violent shaking or vibration: the train came to a shuddering halt | a sudden shuddering noise | figurative : the shuddering impact of his resignation. • (of a person's breathing) unsteady or convulsive, especially as a result of exertion or emotion: he drew a deep, shuddering breath | her breath came in shuddering gasps. noun the action or fact of shaking or vibrating violently: the biggest earthquakes are set off by the shuddering of the plates that make up the earth's surface as they grind together underground | if engine shuddering is evident, get this fixed as soon as possible. DERIVATIVES shudderingly | ˈʃʌdərɪŋli | adverb "

significantly

"significantly | sɪɡˈnɪfɪk(ə)ntli | adverb 1 in a sufficiently great or important way as to be worthy of attention: energy bills have increased significantly this year | : their situation is significantly different from ours. 2 in a way that has a particular meaning: : significantly, he has refused to give a straight answer to this question. • in a manner that suggests a meaning or message that is not explicitly stated: he paused significantly. "

signified

"signified | ˈsɪɡnɪfʌɪd | noun Linguistics the meaning or idea expressed by a sign, as distinct from the physical form in which it is expressed. Compare with signifier."

sincerity

"sincerity | sɪnˈsɛrəti | noun the absence of pretence, deceit, or hypocrisy: the sincerity of his beliefs is unquestionable. "

southwestern

"south-western | ˌsaʊθˈwɛst(ə)n | adjective 1 situated in, directed towards, or facing the south-west: the south-western coast of Turkey. • (of a wind) blowing from the south-west: all sea crossings have been cancelled because of a strong south-western wind. 2 living in, originating from, or characteristic of the south-west of a particular country or region: the south-western residents' traffic concerns | his thick south-western accent. "

specially

"specially | ˈspɛʃəli | adverb for a special purpose: a new coat and hat, bought specially | : a specially commissioned report. USAGE On the differences between specially and especially, see usage at especially."

specified

"specify | ˈspɛsɪfʌɪ | verb (specifies, specifying, specified) identify clearly and definitely: the coup leader promised an election but did not specify a date. • state a fact or requirement clearly and precisely: the agency failed to specify that the workers were not their employees. • include in an architect's or engineer's specifications: naval architects specified circular portholes. DERIVATIVES specifiable | spɛsɪˈfʌɪəb(ə)l | adjective specifier noun ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French specifier or late Latin specificare (see specific)."

spectacles

"spectacles | ˈspɛktək(ə)lz | plural noun British a pair of glasses: gold-rimmed spectacles | (as modifier spectacle) : spectacle frames. "

spectatorial

"spectator | spɛkˈteɪtə | noun a person who watches at a show, game, or other event: around fifteen thousand spectators came to watch the thrills and spills. DERIVATIVES spectatorial | spɛktəˈtɔːrɪəl | adjective spectatorship noun ORIGIN late 16th century: from French spectateur or Latin spectator, from spectare 'gaze at, observe' (see spectacle)."

spiritually

"spiritually | ˈspɪrɪtʃuːəli | adverb in a way that relates to or affects the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things: they are connected spiritually through a sense of purpose | a spiritually uplifting film. "

staggered

"stagger | ˈstaɡə | verb 1 walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall: he staggered to his feet, swaying a little. • continue in existence or operation uncertainly or precariously: the treasury staggered from one crisis to the next. • archaic waver in purpose; hesitate. • archaic (of a blow) cause (someone) to walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall: the collision staggered her and she fell. 2 astonish or deeply shock: I was staggered to find it was six o'clock. 3 arrange (events, payments, hours, etc.) so that they do not occur at the same time: meetings are staggered throughout the day. • arrange (objects or parts) in a zigzag formation or so that they are not in line: stagger the screws at each joint. noun 1 an unsteady walk or movement: she walked with a stagger. 2 an arrangement of things in a zigzag formation or so that they are not in line. • the arrangement of the runners in lanes on a running track at the start of a race, so that the runner in the inside lane is positioned behind those in the next lane and so on until the outside lane: by the back straight, he had overtaken the stagger. DERIVATIVES staggerer noun ORIGIN late Middle English (as a verb): alteration of dialect stacker, from Old Norse stakra, frequentative of staka 'push, stagger'. The noun dates from the late 16th century."

straightened

"straighten | ˈstreɪt(ə)n | verb 1 make or become straight: : she helped him straighten his tie | : here the road straightens and its verges widen. • stand or sit erect after bending: he slowly straightened up, using the table for support. • (straighten up) (of a vehicle, ship, or aircraft) stop turning and move in a straight line: it may be wise to straighten up and fly down wind a little. 2 make tidy or put in order again: he sat down at his desk, straightening his things that Lee had moved | they are asking for help in straightening out their lives. DERIVATIVES straightener noun "

strategic

"strategic | strəˈtiːdʒɪk | adjective 1 relating to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests and the means of achieving them: strategic planning for the organization is the responsibility of top management. • designed or planned to serve a particular purpose: alarms are positioned at strategic points around the prison. 2 relating to the gaining of overall or long-term military advantage: Newark Castle was of strategic importance | British strategic and commercial interests. • (of human or material resources) essential in fighting a war: a large strategic air force. • (of bombing or weapons) done or for use against industrial areas and communication centres of enemy territory as a long-term military objective: strategic nuclear missiles. Often contrasted with tactical. DERIVATIVES strategical | strəˈtiːdʒɪk(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN early 19th century: from French stratégique, from Greek stratēgikos, from stratēgos (see stratagem)."

stretcher

"stretcher | ˈstrɛtʃə | noun 1 a framework of two poles with a long piece of canvas slung between them, used for carrying sick, injured, or dead people. 2 a wooden frame over which a canvas is spread and tautened ready for painting. • a rod or frame used for expanding or tautening a specified thing: sail stretchers. 3 a rod or bar joining and supporting chair legs. • a board in a boat against which a rower presses the feet for support. 4 a brick or stone laid with its long side along the face of a wall. Compare with header (sense 3). 5 archaic, informal an exaggeration or lie. verb carry (a sick or injured person) somewhere on a stretcher: their striker had to be stretchered off following a tackle. "

subsidized

"subsidized | ˈsʌbsɪdʌɪzd | (British also subsidised) adjective (of an organization or activity) supported financially: a subsidized industry. • having part of the cost of production paid in order to keep the selling price low: subsidized food. "

substance

"substance | ˈsʌbst(ə)ns | noun 1 a particular kind of matter with uniform properties: a steel tube coated with a waxy substance. • an intoxicating, stimulating, or narcotic chemical or drug, especially an illegal one: he was suspended for using a banned substance | : substance abuse. 2 the real physical matter of which a person or thing consists and which has a tangible, solid presence: proteins compose much of the actual substance of the body. • the most important or essential part of something; the real or essential meaning: the substance of the Maastricht Treaty. • the subject matter of a text, speech, or work of art, especially as contrasted with the form or style in which it is presented: the substance of his book was the history of allegorical love literature | : the movie is a triumph of style over substance. 3 the quality of being important, valid, or significant: he had yet to accomplish anything of substance. • the quality of having a solid basis in reality or fact: the claim has no substance. • the quality of being dependable or stable: some were inclined to knock her for her lack of substance. • wealth and possessions: a woman of substance. 4 Philosophy the essential nature underlying phenomena, which is subject to changes and accidents. PHRASES in substance essentially: basic rights are equivalent in substance to human rights. ORIGIN Middle English (denoting the essential nature of something): from Old French, from Latin substantia 'being, essence', from substant- 'standing firm', from the verb substare."

successfully

"successfully | səkˈsɛsf(ə)li | adverb in a way that accomplishes a desired aim or result: she has successfully completed her mission | the plant operated successfully for seventy years. "

succession

"succession | səkˈsɛʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a number of people or things of a similar kind following one after the other: she had been secretary to a succession of board directors. • Geology a group of strata representing a single chronological sequence: the Cretaceous succession. 2 the action or process of inheriting a title, office, property, etc.: the new king was already elderly at the time of his succession. • the right or sequence of inheriting a position, title, etc.: the succession to the Crown was disputed. • Ecology the process by which a plant or animal community successively gives way to another until a stable climax is reached. Compare with sere2. PHRASES in quick succession (also in rapid succession) following one another at short intervals: the area suffered two floods in quick succession. in succession following one after the other without interruption: she won the race for the second year in succession. in succession to inheriting or elected to the place of: he was elevated to the Lords in succession to his father. settle the succession determine who shall succeed someone: the act settled the succession on the king's granddaughter. DERIVATIVES successional | səkˈsɛʃən(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English (denoting legal transmission of an estate or the throne to another, also in the sense 'successors, heirs'): from Old French, or from Latin successio(n-), from the verb succedere (see succeed)."

sufficient

"sufficient | səˈfɪʃ(ə)nt | adjective & determiner enough; adequate: : he had a small private income which was sufficient for her needs | : they had sufficient resources to survive. ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'legally satisfactory'): from Old French, or from Latin sufficient- 'meeting the need of' (see suffice)."

suggested

"suggest | səˈdʒɛst | verb 1 put forward for consideration: : I suggest that we wait a day or two | : 'Maybe you ought to get an expert,' she suggested | : Ruth suggested a holiday. 2 cause one to think that (something) exists or is the case: finds of lead coffins suggested a cemetery north of the river | : the temperature wasn't as tropical as the bright sunlight may have suggested. • state or express indirectly: : are you suggesting that I should ignore her? | : the seduction scenes suggest his guilt and her loneliness. • evoke: the theatrical interpretation of weather and water almost suggests El Greco. • (suggest itself) (of an idea) come into one's mind: a simpler explanation suggested itself to me. DERIVATIVES suggester noun ORIGIN early 16th century: from Latin suggest- 'suggested, prompted', from the verb suggerere, from sub- 'from below' + gerere 'bring'."

supporter

"supporter | səˈpɔːtə | noun 1 a person who approves of and encourages a public figure, political party, policy, etc.: Labour supporters. • a person who is actively interested in and wishes success for a particular sports team: an Oxford United supporter. 2 Heraldry a representation of an animal or other figure, typically one of a pair, holding up or standing beside an escutcheon. "

surprised

"surprised | səˈprʌɪzd | adjective feeling or showing surprise: there was a surprised silence. DERIVATIVES surprisedly | səˈprʌɪzɪdli | adverb "

surprisingly

"surprisingly | səˈprʌɪzɪŋli | adverb 1 in a way that causes surprise; unexpectedly: the finale ends surprisingly | : the move was surprisingly easy. 2 used to express surprise at an event or situation: perhaps surprisingly, all survived | he rather surprisingly took up the cause. "

suspenders

"suspenders | səˈspɛndəz | plural noun 1 British an elastic strap attached to a belt or garter, fastened to the top of a stocking to hold it up. 2 North American a pair of straps that pass over the shoulders and fasten to the waistband of a pair of trousers or a skirt at the front and back to hold it up; braces. "

suspicions

"suspicion | səˈspɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a feeling or thought that something is possible, likely, or true: she had a sneaking suspicion that he was laughing at her. • a feeling or belief that someone is guilty of an illegal, dishonest, or unpleasant action: police would not say what aroused their suspicions | : he was arrested on suspicion of murder. 2 cautious distrust: her activities were regarded with suspicion by the headmistress. 3 a very slight trace: a suspicion of a smile. PHRASES above suspicion too obviously good or honest to be thought capable of wrongdoing. under suspicion thought to be guilty of wrongdoing. ORIGIN Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French suspeciun, from medieval Latin suspectio(n-), from suspicere 'mistrust'. The change in the second syllable was due to association with Old French suspicion (from Latin suspicio(n-) 'suspicion')."

swallowed

"swallow1 | ˈswɒləʊ | verb 1 cause or allow (something, especially food or drink) to pass down the throat: she swallowed a mouthful slowly. • perform the muscular movement of the oesophagus required to do this, especially through fear or nervousness: she swallowed hard, sniffing back her tears. • put up with or meekly accept (something unwelcome): he seemed ready to swallow any insult. • believe unquestioningly (a lie or unlikely assertion): she had swallowed his story hook, line, and sinker. • resist expressing (a feeling) or uttering (words): he swallowed his pride. 2 take in and cause to disappear; engulf: the dark mist swallowed her up. • completely use up (money or resources): debts swallowed up most of the money he had got for the house. noun an act of swallowing something, especially food or drink: he downed his drink in one swallow. • an amount of something swallowed in one action: a swallow of beer. DERIVATIVES swallowable adjective ORIGIN Old English swelgan, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch zwelgen and German schwelgen."

technique

"technique | tɛkˈniːk | noun a way of carrying out a particular task, especially the execution or performance of an artistic work or a scientific procedure: new surgical techniques mean a shorter hospital stay | the techniques used by Turner, Rembrandt, and Degas. • skill or ability in a particular field: he has excellent technique | : an established athlete with a very good technique. • a skilful or efficient way of doing or achieving something: tape recording is a good technique for evaluating our own communications. ORIGIN early 19th century: from French, from Latin technicus (see technic)."

telephoning

"telephone | ˈtɛlɪfəʊn | noun 1 a system for transmitting voices over a distance using wire or radio, by converting acoustic vibrations to electrical signals: : a telephone call. • an instrument used as part of a telephone system, typically a single unit including a handset with a transmitting microphone and a set of numbered buttons by which a connection can be made to another such instrument: it was eight-thirty when the telephone rang, and I knew it was Chandler | : a telephone receiver. 2 US a game in which a sentence or phrase becomes distorted by being passed along to the next person in a whisper. Also called Chinese whispers. verb contact (someone) using the telephone: he telephoned his wife at 9.30. • make a telephone call: she telephoned for help. • send (a message) by telephone: Barbara had telephoned the news. PHRASES on the telephone 1 using the telephone: I spent the afternoon on the telephone. 2 British connected to a telephone system: if they were not on the telephone, an officer had to deliver the message in person. DERIVATIVES telephoner noun telephonic | tɛlɪˈfɒnɪk | adjective ORIGIN mid 19th century: from tele- + -phone."

terrified

"terrify | ˈtɛrɪfʌɪ | verb (terrifies, terrifying, terrified) cause to feel extreme fear: the thought terrifies me | (as adjective terrified) : he is terrified of spiders | : she was terrified he would drop her. DERIVATIVES terrifier noun ORIGIN late 16th century: from Latin terrificare, from terrificus 'frightening' (see terrific)."

territories

"territory | ˈtɛrɪt(ə)ri | noun (plural territories) 1 an area of land under the jurisdiction of a ruler or state: the government was prepared to give up the nuclear weapons on its territory | : sorties into enemy territory. • Zoology an area defended by an animal or group of animals against others of the same sex or species: male blackbirds try to attract as many females to their territory as possible. • an area defended by a team or player in a game or sport. • an area in which one has certain rights or for which one has responsibility with regard to a particular type of activity: don't go committing murders on my territory. • land with a specified characteristic: woodland territory. 2 (Territory) (especially in the US, Canada, or Australia) an organized division of a country that is not yet admitted to the full rights of a state. 3 an area of knowledge, activity, or experience: the contentious territory of clinical standards | the way she felt now—she was in unknown territory. PHRASES come with the territory (also go with the territory) be an unavoidable result of a particular situation. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin territorium, from terra 'land'. The word originally denoted the district surrounding and under the jurisdiction of a town or city, specifically a Roman or provincial city."

terrorist

"terrorist | ˈtɛrərɪst | noun a person who uses unlawful violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political aims: four commercial aircraft were hijacked by terrorists | a suspected terrorist. adjective unlawfully using violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political aims: a terrorist organization | terrorist attacks. ORIGIN late 18th century: from French terroriste, from Latin terror (see terror). The word was originally applied to supporters of the Jacobins in the French Revolution, who advocated repression and violence in pursuit of the principles of democracy and equality."

thoroughly

"thoroughly | ˈθʌrəli | adverb 1 in a thorough manner: he searched the house thoroughly. 2 very much; greatly: I thoroughly enjoyed the day | : she was soon thoroughly bored. "

threatens

"threaten | ˈθrɛt(ə)n | verb 1 state one's intention to take hostile action against (someone) in retribution for something done or not done: how dare you threaten me? | the men threatened staff with a handgun | : 'I might sue for damages,' he threatened. • state one's intention to do (something undesirable) in retribution: the trade unions threatened a general strike | : she forced a scene and Toby threatened to leave. 2 cause (someone or something) to be vulnerable or at risk; endanger: a broken finger threatened his career | one of four London hospitals threatened with closure. • seem likely to produce an unpleasant or unwelcome result: the dispute threatened to spread to other cities | : the air was raw and threatened rain. • (of something undesirable) seem likely to occur: unless war threatened, national politics remained the focus of attention. DERIVATIVES threatener | ˈθrɛt(ə)nə | noun ORIGIN Old English thrēatnian 'urge or induce, especially by using threats', from thrēat (see threat)."

tournament

"tournament | ˈtʊənəm(ə)nt | noun 1 (in a sport or game) a series of contests between a number of competitors, competing for an overall prize. 2 (in the Middle Ages) a sporting event in which two knights (or two groups of knights) jousted on horseback with blunted weapons, each trying to knock the other off, the winner receiving a prize. • a modern event involving display of military techniques and exercises: the Royal Tournament. ORIGIN Middle English (in tournament (sense 2)): from Anglo-Norman French variants of Old French torneiement, from torneier 'take part in a tourney' (see tourney)."

transitions

"transition | tranˈzɪʃ(ə)n, trɑːnˈzɪʃ(ə)n, tranˈsɪʃ(ə)n, trɑːnˈsɪʃ(ə)n | noun the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another: students in transition from one programme to another | : a transition to multiparty democracy. • the process by which a person permanently adopts the outward or physical characteristics of the gender with which they identify, as opposed to those associated with their birth sex. The process may or may not involve measures such as hormone therapy and gender reassignment surgery: she had been living as a woman for eight years at that point and had completed her transition in 2001 | he began the transition from female to male in the 10th grade. • Music a momentary modulation from one key to another. • Physics a change of an atom, nucleus, electron, etc. from one quantum state to another, with emission or absorption of radiation. verb undergo or cause to undergo a process or period of transition: : he transitioned into filmmaking easily | : a firm specializing in transitioning companies from old technologies to new ones. • adopt permanently the outward or physical characteristics of the gender one identifies with, as opposed to those associated with one's birth sex: once the decision was finally made to transition, she was overwhelmed with the support from her immediate family. DERIVATIVES transitionary adjective ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'grammatical transitivity'): from Latin transitio(n-), from transire 'go across'."

transport

"transport verb | tranˈspɔːt, trɑːnˈspɔːt | 1 take or carry (people or goods) from one place to another by means of a vehicle, aircraft, or ship: the bulk of freight traffic was transported by lorry. • historical send (a convict) to a penal colony: he was convicted of theft and transported. • cause (someone) to feel that they are in another place or time: the book transported her to new worlds. 2 overwhelm (someone) with a strong emotion, especially joy: she was transported with pleasure. noun | ˈtranspɔːt, ˈtrɑːnspɔːt | 1 a system or means of conveying people or goods from place to place: many possess their own forms of transport | air transport. • the action of transporting something or the state of being transported: the transport of crude oil. • a large vehicle, ship, or aircraft used to carry troops or stores: the invasion force sailed from Cadiz in twenty-five transports. • historical a convict who was transported to a penal colony. 2 (usually transports) an overwhelmingly strong emotion: art can send people into transports of delight. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French transporter or Latin transportare, from trans- 'across' + portare 'carry'."

unconsciously

"unconsciously | ʌnˈkɒnʃəsli | adverb without realizing or being aware of one's actions: Ben smiled unconsciously when he heard her voice | : unconsciously, she has spent her whole life looking for a man who could live up to the ideal of her father. "

understood

"understand | ʌndəˈstand | verb (past and past participle understood | ʌndəˈstʊd | ) 1 perceive the intended meaning of (words, a language, or a speaker): he didn't understand a word I said | he could usually make himself understood | : she understood what he was saying. • perceive the significance, explanation, or cause of: she didn't really understand the situation | : he couldn't understand why we burst out laughing. 2 interpret or view (something) in a particular way: as the term is usually understood, legislation refers to regulations and directives. • infer something from information received (often used as a polite formula in conversation): I understand you're at art school | : as I understood it, she was flying back to the States tomorrow. • regard (a missing word, phrase, or idea) as present: 'present company excepted' is always understood when sweeping generalizations are being made. • assume to be the case; take for granted: he liked to play the field, that was understood. 3 be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or nature of: Picasso understood colour | : I understand how you feel. DERIVATIVES understander noun ORIGIN Old English understandan (see under-, stand)."

unfortunately

"unfortunately | ʌnˈfɔːtʃ(ə)nətli | adverb it is unfortunate that: unfortunately, we do not have the time to interview every applicant. "

unspeakably

"unspeakable | ʌnˈspiːkəb(ə)l | adjective not able to be expressed in words: I felt an unspeakable tenderness towards her. • too bad or horrific to express in words: a piece of unspeakable abuse. DERIVATIVES unspeakableness noun unspeakably | ʌnˈspiːkəbli | adverb : he was unspeakably cruel "

volunteers

"volunteer | ˌvɒlənˈtɪə | noun 1 a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task: a call for volunteers to act as foster-parents. • a person who freely enrols for military service rather than being conscripted, especially a member of a force formed by voluntary enrolment and distinct from the regular army. • a plant that has not been deliberately planted. 2 a person who works for an organization without being paid: the railway is operated solely by volunteers. • Law a person to whom a voluntary conveyance or disposition is made. verb 1 freely offer to do something: 140 employees volunteered for redundancy | : I rashly volunteered to be a contestant. • offer (help) freely: he volunteered his services as a driver for the convoy. • say or suggest something without being asked: : it never paid to volunteer information | : 'Her name's Louise,' Christina volunteered. • commit (someone) to a particular undertaking, typically without consulting them: he was volunteered for parachute training by friends. 2 work for an organization without being paid: (as noun volunteering) : volunteering is an easy way to get involved in practical conservation. ORIGIN late 16th century (as a noun, with military reference): from French volontaire 'voluntary'. The change in the ending was due to association with -eer."

vulnerable

"vulnerable | ˈvʌln(ə)rəb(ə)l | adjective exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally: we were in a vulnerable position | small fish are vulnerable to predators. • (of a person) in need of special care, support, or protection because of age, disability, or risk of abuse or neglect: the scheme will help charities working with vulnerable adults and young people. • Bridge (of a partnership) liable to higher penalties, either by convention or through having won one game towards a rubber: the authors advise a variable no-trump opening bid which means weak non-vulnerable and strong vulnerable. DERIVATIVES vulnerableness | ˈvʌln(ə)rəblnəs | noun vulnerably adverb ORIGIN early 17th century: from late Latin vulnerabilis, from Latin vulnerare 'to wound', from vulnus 'wound'."

whispered

"whisper | ˈwɪspə | verb speak very softly using one's breath rather than one's throat, especially for the sake of secrecy: : Alison was whispering in his ear | : he managed to whisper a faint goodbye | : 'Are you all right?' he whispered. • (be whispered) be rumoured: it was whispered that he would soon die. • literary (of leaves, wind, or water) rustle or murmur softly. noun a soft or confidential tone of voice; a whispered word or phrase: she spoke in a whisper. • a rumour or piece of gossip: whispers of a blossoming romance. • literary a soft rustling or murmuring sound: the thunder of the surf became a muted whisper. • a slight trace; a hint: he didn't show even a whisper of interest. DERIVATIVES whispery adjective ORIGIN Old English hwisprian, of Germanic origin; related to German wispeln, from the imitative base of whistle."

withdrawal

"withdrawal | wɪðˈdrɔː(ə)l | noun the action of withdrawing something: the withdrawal of legal aid. • an act of taking money out of an account. • the action of ceasing to participate in an activity: Italy's withdrawal from NATO. • the process of ceasing to take an addictive drug. PHRASES withdrawal symptoms | wɪðˈdrɔːəl ˌsɪm(p)təmz | the unpleasant physical reaction that accompanies the process of ceasing to take an addictive drug: methadone provides a way off heroine that minimizes withdrawal symptoms | sports fans suffering withdrawal symptoms since the end of the World Cup. "

witnesses

"witness | ˈwɪtnəs | noun 1 a person who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, take place: police are appealing for witnesses to the accident | I was witness to one of the most amazing comebacks in sprinting history. • a person giving sworn testimony to a court of law or the police: a key witness at the trial | : oral evidence set down in witness statements. • a person who is present at the signing of a document and signs it themselves to confirm this: a deed signed in the presence of a witness. 2 evidence; proof: the memorial service was witness to the wide circle of his interests. • used to refer to confirmation or evidence given by signature or under oath: in witness thereof, the parties sign this document. • open profession of one's religious faith through words or actions: they will be able to give witness of their faith and confidence in God. 3 (also witness mark) a line or remnant of an original surface on a workpiece to show how much material has been removed or the shape of the original outline. verb 1 see (an event, typically a crime or accident) happen: staff who witnessed the murder. • be present as someone signs (a document) or gives (their signature) to a document and sign it oneself to confirm this: the clerk witnessed her signature. 2 have knowledge of (a development) from observation or experience: what we are witnessing is the birth of a new political entity. • be the place, period, or setting in which (an event or development) takes place: the 1980s witnessed an unprecedented increase in the scope of the electronic media. • be a sign or proof of (something); serve as evidence: the mid-1980s saw an intensification of interest in community care, as witnessed by the publication of four major reports | : his writings witness to an inner toughness. • used to introduce an example that proves a preceding statement: the nuclear family is a vulnerable institution—witness the rates of marital breakdown. 3 openly profess one's religious faith: one of the purposes of his coming was to nerve the disciples to witness to Jesus. PHRASES as God is my witness (or God be my witness) an invocation of God as confirmation of the truth of a statement: God be my witness, sir, I didn't! call someone/something to witness archaic appeal or refer to someone or something for confirmation or evidence of something. ORIGIN Old English witnes (see wit1, -ness)."

wondering

"wondering | ˈwʌnd(ə)rɪŋ | adjective characterized by or expressive of a desire to know something; curious: unsure where she was leading to, I cast her a wondering look. • characterized by or expressive of admiration and amazement: Peter listened with an air of wondering astonishment. DERIVATIVES wonderingly | ˈwʌndərɪŋli | adverb "

brazilian

"Brazilian | brəˈzɪlɪən | noun 1 a native or inhabitant of Brazil. 2 a style of waxing a woman's pubic hair in which almost all the hair is removed, with only a very small central strip remaining. adjective relating to Brazil. "

abandoned

"abandoned | əˈband(ə)nd | adjective 1 having been deserted or left: an abandoned car | abandoned pets. 2 unrestrained; uninhibited: a wild, abandoned dance. "

addiction

"addiction | əˈdɪkʃ(ə)n | noun the fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance or activity: he committed the offence to finance his drug addiction | addiction to crack cocaine is spreading | : an addiction to gambling. ORIGIN late 16th century (denoting a person's inclination or proclivity): from Latin addictio(n-), from addicere 'assign' (see addicted)."

administrative

"administrative | ədˈmɪnɪstrətɪv | adjective relating to the running of a business, organization, etc.: administrative problems | administrative staff. ORIGIN mid 18th century: from Latin administrativus, from administrat- 'managed', from the verb administrare (see administrate)."

admitting

"admit | ədˈmɪt | verb (admits, admitting, admitted) 1 confess to be true or to be the case: : the Home Office finally admitted that several prisoners had been injured | : 'I am feeling pretty tired,' Jane admitted. • confess to (a crime or fault, or one's responsibility for it): he was sentenced to prison after admitting 47 charges of burglary | : the paramilitaries admitted to the illegal possession of arms. • acknowledge (a failure or fault): after searching for an hour, she finally had to admit defeat. 2 (usually admit to) allow (someone) to enter a place: old-age pensioners are admitted free to the museum. • receive (a patient) into a hospital for treatment: she was admitted to hospital suffering from a chest infection. • allow (a person, country, etc.) to join an organization: Canada was admitted to the League of Nations. • allow (someone) to share in a privilege: he was admitted to the freedom of the city in 1583. 3 accept as valid: the courts can refuse to admit police evidence which has been illegally obtained. 4 (admit of) allow the possibility of: the need to inform him was too urgent to admit of further delay. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin admittere, from ad- 'to' + mittere 'send'."

ambulance

"ambulance | ˈambjʊl(ə)ns | noun a vehicle equipped for taking sick or injured people to and from hospital, especially in emergencies: we called an ambulance | he was taken by ambulance to the district hospital | : the ambulance service. verb convey in an ambulance: he was ambulanced to accident and emergency. ORIGIN early 19th century: French, from hôpital ambulant 'mobile (horse-drawn) field hospital', from Latin ambulant- 'walking' (see ambulant)."

anhedonic

"anhedonia | ˌanhɪˈdəʊnɪə | noun Psychiatry inability to feel pleasure in normally pleasurable activities. DERIVATIVES anhedonic adjective ORIGIN late 19th century: from French anhédonie, from Greek an- 'without' + hēdonē 'pleasure'."

approaching

"approaching | əˈprəʊtʃɪŋ | adjective coming nearer in distance or time: an approaching car | he warned of an approaching crisis. "

assistant

"assistant | əˈsɪst(ə)nt | noun a person who ranks below a senior person: the managing director and his assistant | : an assistant manager. • a person who helps in particular work: a care assistant. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, or from medieval Latin assistent- 'taking one's stand beside', from the verb assistere (see assist)."

associated

"associated | əˈsəʊʃɪeɪtɪd | adjective (of a person or thing) connected with something else: two associated events. • (of a company) connected or amalgamated with another company or companies. • Chemistry (of liquids) in which the molecules are held together by hydrogen bonding or other weak interaction. "

commander

"commander | kəˈmɑːndə | noun 1 a person in authority, especially over a body of troops or a military operation: the commander of a paratroop regiment. • a rank of naval officer, above lieutenant commander and below captain. • an officer in charge of a Metropolitan Police district in London. 2 a member of a higher class in some orders of knighthood. See also knight commander. DERIVATIVES commandership | kəˈmɑːndəʃɪp | noun ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French comandeor, from late Latin commandare (see command)."

committed

"committed | kəˈmɪtɪd | adjective 1 pledged or bound to a certain course or policy; dedicated: a committed environmentalist. 2 in or denoting a long-term emotional relationship: a committed relationship | Esther has a committed boyfriend. "

comparative

"comparative | kəmˈparətɪv | adjective 1 measured or judged by estimating the similarity or dissimilarity between one thing and another; relative: he returned to the comparative comfort of his own home. 2 involving the systematic observation of the similarities or dissimilarities between two or more branches of science or subjects of study: comparative religion. 3 Grammar (of an adjective or adverb) expressing a higher degree of a quality, but not the highest possible (e.g. braver; more fiercely). Contrasted with positive, superlative. • (of a clause) involving comparison (e.g. he's not as good as he was). noun Grammar a comparative adjective or adverb. • (the comparative) the middle degree of comparison. ORIGIN late Middle English (in comparative (sense 3 of the adjective)): from Latin comparativus, from comparare 'to pair, match' (see compare)."

compassionate

"compassionate | kəmˈpaʃ(ə)nət | adjective feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others: I allowed him to go home on compassionate grounds | she tried to sound compassionate. DERIVATIVES compassionately | kəmˈpaʃ(ə)nətli | adverb ORIGIN late 16th century: from compassion + -ate2, influenced by archaic French compassioné 'feeling pity'."

completely

"completely | kəmˈpliːtli | adverb totally; utterly: the fire completely destroyed the building | : you must be completely mad! "

conceived

"conceive | kənˈsiːv | verb 1 create (an embryo) by fertilizing an egg: she was conceived when her father was 49. • (of a woman) become pregnant: five months ago Wendy conceived. 2 form or devise (a plan or idea) in the mind: the dam project was originally conceived in 1977 | (as adjective, with submodifier conceived) : a brilliantly conceived and executed robbery. • form a mental representation of; imagine: without society an individual cannot be conceived as having rights | : we could not conceive of such things happening to us. • literary become affected by (a feeling): I had conceived a passion for another. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French concevoir, from Latin concipere, from com- 'together' + capere 'take'."

conditioner

"conditioner | kənˈdɪʃ(ə)nə | noun a substance or appliance used to improve the condition of something: add a water conditioner to neutralize chlorine. • a liquid applied to the hair after shampooing to improve its condition: to prevent static, always use a conditioner | : I have to use a lot of conditioner. "

conducted

"conducted | kənˈdʌktɪd | adjective led by a guide; managed: a conducted tour. "

connected

"connected | kəˈnɛktɪd | adjective 1 brought together or into contact so that a real or notional link is established: a connected series of cargo holds. 2 associated or related in some respect: a series of connected stories. DERIVATIVES connectedly | kəˈnɛktɪdli | adverb "

customers

"customer | ˈkʌstəmə | noun 1 a person who buys goods or services from a shop or business: Mr Harrison was a regular customer at the Golden Lion. 2 a person of a specified kind with whom one has to deal: he's a tough customer. "

decorative

"decorative | ˈdɛk(ə)rətɪv | adjective serving to make something look more attractive; ornamental: a well-appointed house with original decorative features. • relating to decoration: a decorative artist. • informal (of a woman) attractive: she was an extremely decorative and popular actress. DERIVATIVES decoratively | ˈdɛk(ə)rətɪvli | adverb decorativeness noun "

diagnosed

"diagnose | ˈdʌɪəɡnəʊz, dʌɪəɡˈnəʊz | verb identify the nature of (an illness or other problem) by examination of the symptoms: two doctors failed to diagnose a punctured lung. • identify the nature of the medical condition of: she was finally diagnosed as having epilepsy | 20,000 men are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. DERIVATIVES diagnosable adjective ORIGIN mid 19th century: back-formation from diagnosis."

disastrous

"disastrous | dɪˈzɑːstrəs | adjective causing great damage: a disastrous fire swept through the museum. • informal highly unsuccessful: United made a disastrous start to the season. ORIGIN late 16th century (in the sense 'ill-fated'): from French désastreux, from Italian disastroso, from disastro 'disaster'."

discharge

"discharge verb | dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒ | 1 tell (someone) officially that they can or must leave a place or situation. • allow (a patient) to leave hospital because they are judged fit: Mark was taken away in an ambulance but later discharged. • dismiss from the armed forces or police: his memory was impaired and he was discharged from the RAF. • release from the custody or restraint of the law: she was conditionally discharged for two years at Oxford Crown Court. • relieve (a juror or jury) from serving in a case: if the jury cannot agree, it should be discharged. 2 allow (a liquid, gas, or other substance) to flow out from where it has been confined: industrial plants discharge highly toxic materials into rivers | : the overflow should discharge in an obvious place. • (of an orifice or diseased tissue) emit (pus or other liquid): the swelling will eventually break down and discharge pus | : the eyes and nose began to discharge. • Physics release or neutralize the electric charge of (an electric field, battery, or other object): the electrostatic field that builds up on a monitor screen can be discharged | : batteries have a tendency to discharge slowly. • (of a person) fire (a gun or missile): when you shoot you can discharge as many barrels as you wish. • (of a firearm) be fired: there was a dull thud as the gun discharged. • unload (goods or passengers) from a ship: the ferry was discharging passengers | : ninety ships were queuing to discharge. • allow (an emotion) to be expressed: he discharged his resentment in the harmless form of memoirs. 3 do all that is required to perform (a duty) or fulfil (a responsibility): the bank had failed to discharge its supervisory duties. • pay off (a debt): the executor must discharge the funeral expenses. • release (a party) from a contract or obligation: the insurer is discharged from liability from the day of breach. • Law relieve (a bankrupt) of residual liability: first-time bankrupts are discharged automatically after three years. 4 Law (of a judge or court) cancel (an order of a court): the court may discharge a care order on the application of the child. • cancel (a contract) because of completion or breach: an existing mortgage to be discharged on completion. noun | ˈdɪstʃɑːdʒ, dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒ | 1 the action of discharging someone from a hospital or from the armed forces or police: referrals can be discussed before discharge from hospital | : he failed a drug test and was given a dishonourable discharge. • an act of releasing someone from the custody or restraint of the law: she was given an absolute discharge after admitting breaking a smoking ban. 2 the action of discharging a liquid, gas, or other substance: those germs might lead to vaginal discharge. • a substance that has been discharged: industrial discharge has turned the river into an open sewer | : a greeny-yellow nasal discharge. • Physics the release of electricity from a charged object: slow discharge of a condenser is fundamental to oscillatory circuits. • a flow of electricity through air or other gas, especially when accompanied by emission of light: a sizzling discharge between sky and turret. • the action of firing a gun or missile: a police permit for discharge of an air gun | : sounds like discharges of artillery. • the action of unloading a ship: freight for discharge. 3 the action of doing all that is required to fulfil a responsibility or perform a duty: directors must use skill in the discharge of their duties. • the payment of a debt: money paid in discharge of a claim. • Law the relief of a bankrupt from residual liability: machinery to rehabilitate the bankrupt through the process of discharge. 4 Law the cancellation of an order of a court: an application for discharge of a supervision order. DERIVATIVES dischargeable | dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'relieve of an obligation'): from Old French descharger, from late Latin discarricare 'unload', from dis- (expressing reversal) + carricare 'to load' (see charge)."

discourse

"discourse noun | ˈdɪskɔːs | written or spoken communication or debate: : the language of political discourse | : an imagined discourse between two people. • a formal discussion of a topic in speech or writing: a discourse on critical theory. • Linguistics a connected series of utterances; a text or conversation. verb | dɪsˈkɔːs | speak or write authoritatively about a topic: she could discourse at great length on the history of Europe. • engage in conversation: he spent an hour discoursing with his supporters. ORIGIN late Middle English (denoting the process of reasoning): from Old French discours, from Latin discursus 'running to and fro' (in medieval Latin 'argument'), from the verb discurrere, from dis- 'away' + currere 'to run'; the verb influenced by French discourir."

distracted

"distracted | dɪˈstraktɪd | adjective unable to concentrate because one is preoccupied by something worrying or unpleasant: Charlotte seemed too distracted to give him much attention. DERIVATIVES distractedly | dɪˈstraktɪdli | adverb distractedness noun "

entertaining

"entertaining | ɛntəˈteɪnɪŋ | adjective providing amusement or enjoyment: a charming and entertaining companion. DERIVATIVES entertainingly | ˌɛntəˈteɪnɪŋli | adverb "

entertainments

"entertainment | ɛntəˈteɪnm(ə)nt | noun the action of providing or being provided with amusement or enjoyment: everyone just sits in front of the television for entertainment. • an event, performance, or activity designed to entertain others: a theatrical entertainment. • the action of receiving a guest or guests and providing them with food and drink: the suite provides the setting for entertainment on the grand scale. "

essentially

"essentially | ɪˈsɛnʃ(ə)li | adverb used to emphasize the basic, fundamental, or intrinsic nature of a person or thing: : essentially, they are amateurs. "

experienced

"experienced | ɪkˈspɪərɪənst, ɛkˈspɪərɪənst | adjective having gained knowledge or skill in a particular field over time: an experienced social worker | she was experienced in marketing. "

extremely

"extremely | ɪkˈstriːmli, ɛkˈstriːmli | adverb to a very great degree; very: this is an extremely difficult thing to do. "

incredibly

"incredibly | ɪnˈkrɛdɪbli | adverb 1 to a great degree; extremely: Michele was incredibly brave. 2 used to introduce a statement that is hard to believe; strangely: incredibly, he was still alive. "

insurgent

"insurgent | ɪnˈsəːdʒ(ə)nt | noun a person fighting against a government or invading force; a rebel or revolutionary: an attack by armed insurgents. adjective rising in active revolt: alleged links with insurgent groups. • relating to rebels: a series of insurgent attacks. ORIGIN mid 18th century: via French from Latin insurgent- 'arising', from the verb insurgere, from in- 'into, towards' + surgere 'to rise'."

involuted

"involuted | ˈɪnvəl(j)uːtɪd | adjective complicated or abstruse: his involuted prose. "

medically

"medically | ˈmɛdɪk(ə)li | adverb in a way that relates to the science or practice of medicine: medically trained staff | the victim was medically examined. • in a way that relates to medicine as distinguished from surgery, psychiatry, etc.: patients may be treated medically or surgically. "

meditative

"meditative | ˈmɛdɪˌtətɪv, ˈmɛdɪˌteɪtɪv | adjective relating to or absorbed in meditation or considered thought: meditative techniques. DERIVATIVES meditatively | ˈmɛdɪˌtətɪvli, ˈmɛdɪˌteɪtɪvli | adverb meditativeness | ˈmɛdɪˌtətɪvnəs, ˈmɛdɪˌteɪtɪvnəs | noun ORIGIN early 17th century: from meditate + -ive, reinforced by French méditatif, -ive."

metropolitan

"metropolitan | mɛtrəˈpɒlɪt(ə)n | adjective 1 relating to or denoting a metropolis or large city: the Boston metropolitan area. 2 relating to or denoting the parent state of a colony: metropolitan Spain. 3 Christian Church relating to or denoting a metropolitan or his see: a metropolitan bishop. noun 1 Christian Church a bishop having authority over the bishops of a province, in particular (in Orthodox Churches) one ranking above archbishop and below patriarch: the post of Metropolitan of Moldavia and Bucovina | : Metropolitan Aleksei of Leningrad and Novgorod. 2 an inhabitant of a metropolis or large city: a sophisticated metropolitan. DERIVATIVES metropolitanism noun ORIGIN late Middle English (in the ecclesiastical sense): from late Latin metropolitanus, from Greek mētropolitēs 'citizen of a mother state', from mētropolis (see metropolis)."

mysteriously

"mysteriously | mɪˈstɪərɪəsli | adverb in a way that is difficult or impossible to understand, explain, or identify: her boyfriend mysteriously disappeared | the radio went mysteriously quiet. • in a deliberately enigmatic manner: my wife just smiled mysteriously and refused to tell me what she had in mind. "

narration

"narration | nəˈreɪʃ(ə)n | noun the action or process of narrating a story: the style of narration in the novel. • a commentary delivered to accompany a film, broadcast, etc.: Moore's narration is often sarcastic | : there's no dialogue or narration. "

occasionally

"occasionally | əˈkeɪʒ(ə)n(ə)li, əˈkeɪʒ(ə)nəli, əˈkeɪʒən(ə)li | adverb at infrequent or irregular intervals; now and then: we met up occasionally for a drink | very occasionally the condition can result in death. "

potentially

"potentially | pəˈtɛnʃ(ə)li | adverb with the capacity to develop or happen in the future: newly available oil might potentially create a drop in prices | a potentially dangerous situation. "

pretended

"pretended | prɪˈtɛndɪd | adjective not genuine; assumed: eating ice cream with pretended unconcern. "

procedure

"procedure | prəˈsiːdʒə | noun an established or official way of doing something: the police are now reviewing procedures | : parliamentary procedure. • a series of actions conducted in a certain order or manner: the standard procedure for informing new employees about conditions of work. • a surgical operation: the procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic. • Computing another term for subroutine. ORIGIN late 16th century: from French procédure, from procéder (see proceed)."

projecting

"projecting | prəˈdʒɛktɪŋ | adjective extending outwards beyond something else; protruding: a projecting bay window. "

questioning

"questioning | ˈkwɛstʃ(ə)nɪŋ | noun the action of asking someone questions, especially in an official context: the young lieutenant escorted us to the barracks for questioning. • the raising of a doubt about or objection to something: this situation should prompt questioning | there was no questioning of the decision. adjective showing an interest in learning new things: the questioning mind of a child. • (of a look) suggesting that information is sought: Aaron shot her a questioning glance. DERIVATIVES questioningly | ˈkwɛstʃ(ə)nɪŋli | adverb "

reporting

"report | rɪˈpɔːt | verb 1 give a spoken or written account of something that one has observed, heard, done, or investigated: : the minister reported a decline in milk production | : police reported that the floods were abating | : the teacher should report on the child's progress. • cover an event or subject as a journalist or a reporter: the public disliked the way that the media reported on the scandal | : the Egyptian news agency reported that a coup attempt had taken place. • (be reported) used to indicate that something has been stated, although one cannot confirm its accuracy: : hoaxers are reported to be hacking into airline frequencies to impersonate air traffic controllers. • make a formal statement or complaint about (someone or something) to the necessary authority: undisclosed illegalities are reported to the company's directors | : eight Yorkshire terriers have been reported missing in the last month. • British (of a parliamentary committee chairman) formally announce that the committee has dealt with (a bill): the Chairman shall report the Bill to the House. • (report something out) US (of a committee of Congress) return a bill to the legislative body for action: the Committee reported out the Civil Rights Bill, quicker than ever expected. 2 present oneself formally as having arrived at a particular place or as ready to do something: he had to report to the headmaster at 4 pm. • (report back) return to work or duty after a period of absence: hearing that there was the prospect of action with No. 8 Commando, he reported back for duty. 3 (report to) be responsible to (a superior or supervisor): he reports to the chairman of the committee. noun 1 an account given of a particular matter, especially in the form of an official document, after thorough investigation or consideration by an appointed person or body: the chairman's annual report. • a spoken or written description of an event or situation, especially one intended for publication or broadcasting in the media: press reports suggested that the secret police were helping to maintain public order. • British a teacher's written assessment of a pupil's work, progress, and conduct, issued at the end of a term or school year. • Law a detailed formal account of a case heard in a court, giving the main points in the judgement, especially as prepared for publication. 2 a piece of information that is unsupported by firm evidence: reports were circulating that the chairman was about to resign. • dated rumour: report has it that the beetles have now virtually disappeared. 3 a sudden loud noise of or like an explosion or gunfire: all our horses are very gentle and are accustomed to hearing the report of a .22. 4 an employee who reports to another employee. 5 archaic the reputation of someone or something: whatsoever things are lovely and of good report. PHRASES on report 1 British during the report stage of a bill in the House of Commons or House of Lords: when the Bill was debated in committee and on report, language was more restrained. 2 (especially of a prisoner or member of the armed forces) on a disciplinary charge: lots of girls got put on report for wearing each other's clothes. DERIVATIVES reportable | rɪˈpɔːtəb(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French reporter (verb), report (noun), from Latin reportare 'bring back', from re- 'back' + portare 'carry'. The sense 'give an account' gave rise to 'submit a formal report', hence 'inform an authority of one's presence' (report (sense 2 of the verb), mid 19th century) and 'be accountable to a superior' (report (sense 3 of the verb), late 19th century)."

requiring

"require | rɪˈkwʌɪə | verb need for a particular purpose: three patients required operations | please indicate how many tickets you require. • make necessary: it would have required much research to produce a comprehensive list. • specify as compulsory: the minimum car insurance required by law. • (of someone in authority) instruct or expect (someone) to do something: you will be required to attend for cross-examination. • (require something of) regard an action, ability, or quality as due from (someone) by virtue of their position: the care and diligence required of him as a trustee. DERIVATIVES requirer noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French requere, from Latin requirere, from re- (expressing intensive force) + quaerere 'seek'."

resulting

"resulting | rɪˈzʌltɪŋ | adjective occurring or following as the consequence of something: talk of a general election and the resulting political uncertainty. "

scratched

"scratch | skratʃ | verb 1 score or mark the surface of (something) with a sharp or pointed object: the car's paintwork was battered and scratched | : he scratched at a stain on his jacket. • make a long, narrow superficial wound in the skin of: her arms were scratched by the thorns | I scratched myself on the tree. • rub (a part of one's body) with one's fingernails to relieve itching: Jessica lifted her sunglasses and scratched her nose. • make (a mark or hole) by scoring a surface with a sharp or pointed object: I found two names scratched on one of the windowpanes. • write (something) hurriedly or awkwardly. • remove (something) from something else by pulling a sharp implement over it: he scratched away the plaster. • make a rasping or grating noise by scraping something over a hard surface: the dog scratched to be let in. • (of a bird or mammal, especially a chicken) rake the ground with the beak or claws in search of food: the hens cannot do anything that comes naturally to them, such as scratch around. • (scratch for) search for (someone or something that is hard to locate or find): he's still scratching around for a woman to share his life. • accomplish (something) with great effort or difficulty: Tabitha wondered how long the woman had been scratching a living on the waterways. • (scratch along) make a living with difficulty: many architects now scratch along doing loft conversions. 2 cancel or strike out (writing) with a pen or pencil: the name of Dr McNab was scratched out and that of Dr Dunstaple substituted. • withdraw (a competitor) from a competition: Jolie's Halo was scratched from a minor stakes race at Monmouth Park. • (of a competitor) withdraw from a competition: due to a knee injury she was forced to scratch from the race. • cancel or abandon (an undertaking or project): banks seem prepared to scratch stabilization charges. 3 play a record using the scratch technique. See scratch (sense 2 of the noun): he raps and scratches simultaneously to dazzling effect. noun 1 a mark or wound made by scratching: the scratches on her arm were throbbing. • informal a slight or insignificant wound or injury: it's nothing—just a scratch. • an act or spell of scratching oneself to relieve itching: he gave his scalp a good scratch. • a rasping or grating noise produced by something rubbing against a hard surface: the scratch of a match lighting a cigarette. • a rough hiss, caused by the friction of the stylus in the groove, heard when a record is played. 2 a technique, used especially in rap music, of stopping a record by hand and moving it back and forwards to give a rhythmic scratching effect: : a scratch mix. 3 (in sport) the starting point in a race for a competitor that is not given a handicap or advantage: a 631-metres handicap, when the excellent stayer, Too Fast, will be off scratch. • Golf a handicap of zero, indicating that a player is good enough to achieve par on a course: he plays off scratch in University golf. 4 informal money: he was working to get some scratch together. adjective 1 assembled or made from whatever is available, and so unlikely to be of the highest quality: City were fielding a scratch squad. 2 (of a sports competitor or event) with no handicap given: he was a scratch player at many courses. PHRASES from scratch from the very beginning, especially without making use of or relying on any previous work for assistance: he built his own computer company from scratch. scratch a — and find a — used to suggest that an investigation of someone or something soon reveals their true nature: he had been taught to believe "scratch a pious man and find a hypocrite.". scratch one's head informal think hard in order to find a solution to something: winemakers are scratching their heads for an alternative term. • feel or express bewilderment: art lovers have been left scratching their heads over an exhibition of kissing toothbrushes. scratch the surface 1 deal with a matter only in the most superficial way: research has only scratched the surface of the paranormal. 2 initiate the briefest investigation to discover something concealed: they have a boring image but scratch the surface and it's fascinating. up to scratch up to the required standard; satisfactory: her German was not up to scratch. you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours proverb if you do me a favour, I'll return it. DERIVATIVES scratcher noun ORIGIN late Middle English: probably a blend of the synonymous dialect words scrat and cratch, both of uncertain origin; compare with Middle Low German kratsen and Old High German krazzōn."

spontaneously

"spontaneously | spɒnˈteɪnɪəsli | adverb as a result of a sudden impulse and without premeditation: the crowd spontaneously burst into song. • without apparent external cause or stimulus: a surprising number of early pregnancies spontaneously abort | mutations can occur spontaneously. "

struggling

"struggling | ˈstrʌɡlɪŋ | adjective striving to achieve or attain something in the face of difficulty or resistance: these figures suggest more bad news for struggling homeowners | a struggling actor. "

supervision

"supervision | ˌsuːpəˈvɪʒn | noun the action of supervising someone or something: he was placed under the supervision of a probation officer | she let them work without supervision. "

suspiciously

"suspiciously | səˈspɪʃəsli | adverb with a cautious distrust or suspicion of someone or something: 'What's going on?' I asked suspiciously | women have been eyed suspiciously by the Party. • in a way that arouses suspicion or distrust: he was arrested after behaving suspiciously | the group was suspiciously quiet about their activities. "

tentative

"tentative | ˈtɛntətɪv | adjective not certain or fixed; provisional: a tentative conclusion. • done without confidence; hesitant: he eventually tried a few tentative steps round his hospital room. DERIVATIVES tentativeness | ˈtɛntətɪvnəs | noun ORIGIN late 16th century: from medieval Latin tentativus, from tentare, variant of temptare 'handle, try'."

traditional

"traditional | trəˈdɪʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established: the traditional festivities of the Church year. • produced, done, or used in accordance with tradition: a traditional fish soup. • habitually done, used, or found: the traditional drinks in the clubhouse. • (of a person or group) adhering to tradition, or to a particular tradition: traditional Elgarians. • (of jazz) in the style of the early 20th century. "

transcendence

"transcendence | trɑːnˈsɛnd(ə)ns, tranˈsɛnd(ə)ns | (also transcendency) noun existence or experience beyond the normal or physical level: the possibility of spiritual transcendence in the modern world. "

traumatic

"traumatic | trɔːˈmatɪk, traʊˈmatɪk | adjective 1 deeply disturbing or distressing: she was going through a traumatic divorce. • relating to or causing psychological trauma: she is remembering some deeply traumatic incident in her past. 2 Medicine relating to or denoting physical injury. DERIVATIVES traumatically adverb ORIGIN mid 19th century: via late Latin from Greek traumatikos, from trauma (see trauma)."

uncomfortable

"uncomfortable | ʌnˈkʌmf(ə)təb(ə)l | adjective causing or feeling slight pain or physical discomfort: his hard, uncomfortable bed. • causing or feeling unease or awkwardness: he began to feel uncomfortable at the man's hard stare | an uncomfortable silence. DERIVATIVES uncomfortableness | ʌnˈkʌmf(ə)təb(ə)lnəs | noun "

university

"university | juːnɪˈvəːsɪti | noun (plural universities) a high-level educational institution in which students study for degrees and academic research is done: I went to university at the Sorbonne | his daughter is at university. PHRASES the university of life the experience of life regarded as a means of instruction. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French universite, from Latin universitas 'the whole', in late Latin 'society, guild', from universus (see universe)."

unpleasantness

"unpleasantness | ʌnˈplɛzntnəs | noun the state or quality of being unpleasant: they did not look like thugs, but their faces were stamped with unpleasantness. • bad feeling or quarrelling between people: she hated unpleasantness, though she wouldn't back down from a fight. "

abstraction

"abstraction | əbˈstrakʃ(ə)n | noun 1 the quality of dealing with ideas rather than events: topics will vary in degrees of abstraction. • something which exists only as an idea: the question can no longer be treated as an academic abstraction. 2 freedom from representational qualities in art: geometric abstraction has been a mainstay in her work. • an abstract work of art: critics sought the meaning of O'Keeffe's abstractions | a series of black-and-white abstractions. 3 a state of preoccupation: she sensed his momentary abstraction. 4 the process of considering something independently of its associations or attributes: the question cannot be considered in abstraction from the historical context in which it was raised. 5 the process of removing something, especially water from a river or other source: the abstraction of water from springs and wells | : abstractions from the Lowther in Cumbria. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin abstractio(n-), from the verb abstrahere 'draw away' (see abstract)."

academies

"academy | əˈkadəmi | noun (plural academies) 1 a place of study or training in a special field: a police academy. • dated a place of study: he was educated privately at academies in Margate. • (in England) an inner-city school which is funded by the government and sometimes also by a private individual or organization but is not controlled by the local authority. • US & Scottish a secondary school, in the US typically a private one: Mark left St Andrews Academy with five highers, and studied maths at Glasgow University. • (the Academy) the teaching school founded by Plato. 2 a society or institution of distinguished scholars and artists or scientists that aims to promote and maintain standards in its particular field: the Royal Academy of Arts. ORIGIN late Middle English (denoting the garden where Plato taught): from French académie or Latin academia, from Greek akadēmeia, from Akadēmos, the hero after whom Plato's garden was named."

accepting

"accept | əkˈsɛpt | verb 1 consent to receive or undertake (something offered): he accepted a pen as a present | she accepted a temporary post as a clerk. • give an affirmative answer to (an offer or proposal); say yes to: he would accept their offer and see what happened | : Tim offered Brian a lift home and he accepted. • dated say yes to a proposal of marriage from (a man): what if Elizabeth accepted Darcy the first time? • receive as adequate, valid, or suitable: the college accepted her as a student | credit cards are widely accepted. • regard favourably or with approval; welcome: the Irish never accepted him as one of them. • (of a thing) be designed to allow (something) to be inserted or applied: vending machines that accepted 100-yen coins for cans of beer. 2 believe or come to recognize (a proposition) as valid or correct: this tentative explanation came to be accepted by the men | : it is accepted that ageing is a continuous process. • take upon oneself (a responsibility or liability); acknowledge: Jenkins is willing to accept his responsibility | : he accepts that he made a mistake. • tolerate or submit to (something unpleasant or undesired): they accepted the need to cut overheads. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin acceptare, frequentative of accipere 'take something to oneself', from ad- 'to' + capere 'take'."

accidentally

"accidentally | aksɪˈdɛnt(ə)li | adverb by chance; inadvertently: his gun went off accidentally | accidentally knocked the vase over. "

accompany

"accompany | əˈkʌmpəni | verb (accompanies, accompanying, accompanied) 1 go somewhere with (someone) as a companion or escort: the two sisters were to accompany us to London. 2 be present or occur at the same time as (something else): the illness is often accompanied by nausea. • provide a complement or addition to: home-cooked ham accompanied by brown bread. 3 play a musical accompaniment for: he would play his violin, and Mother used to accompany him on our organ. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French accompagner, from a- (from Latin ad 'to, at') + compagne, from Old French compaignon 'companion'. The spelling change was due to association with company."

accredited

"accredited | əˈkrɛdɪtɪd | adjective (of a person, organization, or course of study) officially recognized or authorized: an accredited practitioner | an accredited college. "

acknowledge

"acknowledge | əkˈnɒlɪdʒ | verb 1 accept or admit the existence or truth of: : the plight of the refugees was acknowledged by the authorities | : the government acknowledged that the tax was unfair | : 'That's true,' she acknowledged. 2 recognize the importance or quality of: the art world has begun to acknowledge his genius | the hotel is widely acknowledged as one of Cornwall's finest. • express gratitude for or appreciation of: he received a letter acknowledging his services. • accept the validity or legitimacy of: Henry acknowledged Richard as his heir. 3 show that one has noticed or recognized (someone) by making a gesture or greeting: she refused to acknowledge my presence. • confirm (receipt of something): I should be grateful if you would acknowledge receipt of this letter. DERIVATIVES acknowledgeable (also acknowledgable) adjective ORIGIN late 15th century: from the obsolete Middle English verb knowledge, influenced by obsolete acknow 'acknowledge, confess'."

addresses

"address | əˈdrɛs | noun 1 the particulars of the place where someone lives or an organization is situated: they exchanged addresses and agreed to keep in touch. • the place where someone lives or an organization is situated: our officers called at the address. • a string of characters that identifies a destination for email messages or the location of a website. • a binary number that identifies a particular location in a data storage system or computer memory: a numerical value which acts as a storage address for the data. 2 a formal speech delivered to an audience: an address to the European Parliament. • archaic a person's manner of speaking to someone else: his address was abrupt and unceremonious. • (addresses) archaic courteous or amorous approaches to someone: he persecuted her with his addresses. 3 dated skill, dexterity, or readiness: he rescued me with the most consummate address. verb 1 write the name and address of the intended recipient on (an envelope, letter, or parcel): I addressed my letter to him personally. 2 speak to (a person or an assembly): she addressed the open-air meeting. • (address someone as) name someone (in the specified way) when talking to them: she addressed my father as 'Mr Stevens'. • (address something to) say or write remarks or a protest to: address your complaints to the Trading Standards Board. 3 think about and begin to deal with (an issue or problem): a fundamental problem has still to be addressed. 4 Golf take up one's stance and prepare to hit (the ball): ensure that your weight is evenly spread when you address the ball. PHRASES form of address a name or title used in speaking or writing to a person of a specified rank or function: 'Venerable' was the usual form of address for a priest at that time. DERIVATIVES addresser | əˈdrɛsə | noun ORIGIN Middle English (as a verb in the senses 'set upright' and 'guide, direct', hence 'write directions for delivery on' and 'direct spoken words to'): from Old French, based on Latin ad- 'towards' + directus (see direct). The noun is of mid 16th-century origin in the sense 'act of approaching or speaking to someone'."

adjusting

"adjust | əˈdʒʌst | verb 1 alter or move (something) slightly in order to achieve the desired fit, appearance, or result: he smoothed his hair and adjusted his tie | a single control adjusts the water flow. • permit small alterations or movements so as to achieve a desired fit, appearance, or result: a harness that adjusts to the correct fit. • adapt or become used to a new situation: she must be allowed to grieve and to adjust in her own way | his eyes had adjusted to semi-darkness. 2 assess (loss or damages) when settling an insurance claim: the insurance agent may have the responsibility of adjusting small losses. PHRASES do not adjust your set used to tell someone that information is true, although it appears strange or incorrect: yes, the candidate is from Montana. Do not adjust your set. DERIVATIVES adjuster | əˈdʒʌstə | noun ORIGIN early 17th century (in the senses 'harmonize discrepancies' and 'assess loss or damages'): from obsolete French adjuster, from Old French ajoster 'to approximate', based on Latin ad- 'to' + juxta 'near'."

admissions

"admission | ədˈmɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a statement acknowledging the truth of something: an admission of guilt | a tacit admission that things had gone wrong. 2 the process or fact of entering or being allowed to enter a place or organization: the evening before her admission to hospital | the country's admission to the UN. • the fee charged for entry to a public place: admission is £1 for adults and 50p for children. • (admissions) the number of people entering a place: cinema admissions have been rising recently. • a person admitted to hospital for treatment: there was a substantial reduction in hospital admissions. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin admissio(n-), from the verb admittere (see admit)."

adolescents

"adolescent | adəˈlɛs(ə)nt | adjective (of a young person) in the process of developing from a child into an adult: many parents find it hard to understand their adolescent children. • relating to or characteristic of adolescence: his adolescent years | adolescent problems. noun an adolescent boy or girl: the books are aimed at children and adolescents. ORIGIN late Middle English (as a noun): via French from Latin adolescent- 'coming to maturity', from adolescere, from ad- 'to' + alescere 'grow, grow up', from alere 'nourish'. The adjective dates from the late 18th century."

advantage

"advantage | ədˈvɑːntɪdʒ | noun a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favourable or superior position: companies with a computerized database are at an advantage | she had an advantage over her mother's generation. • the opportunity to gain something; benefit or profit: you could learn something to your advantage | he saw some advantage in the proposal. • a favourable or desirable feature: the village's proximity to the town is an advantage. • Tennis a score marking a point interim between deuce and winning the game: 'Advantage, Federer.'. verb put in a favourable or superior position. PHRASES have the advantage of dated be in a stronger position than. take advantage of 1 exploit for one's own benefit: people tend to take advantage of a placid nature. • dated (of a man) seduce (a woman): he used his position to take advantage of women. 2 make good use of the opportunities offered by: take full advantage of the facilities available. to advantage in a way which displays or makes good use of the best aspects of something: her shoes showed off her legs to advantage | plan your space to its best advantage. turn something to advantage (also turn something to one's advantage) handle or respond to something in such a way as to benefit from it: they dominated the first half of the game but failed to turn it to advantage. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French avantage, from avant 'in front', from late Latin abante (see advance)."

advertising

"advertising | ˈadvətʌɪzɪŋ | noun the activity or profession of producing advertisements for commercial products or services: : an advertising agency | her father was in advertising | Philip went into advertising. • advertisements collectively: despite being instructed to take the signs down, he says he has no intention of removing the advertising. "

affection

"affection | əˈfɛkʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a gentle feeling of fondness or liking: she felt affection for the wise old lady | : he won a place in her affections. 2 archaic the action or process of affecting or being affected. • a condition or disease: an affection of the skin. • a mental state; an emotion. DERIVATIVES affectional | əˈfɛkʃ(ə)n(ə)l | adjective ORIGIN Middle English: via Old French from Latin affectio(n-), from afficere 'to influence' (see affect2)."

alcoholics

"alcoholic | alkəˈhɒlɪk | adjective 1 containing or relating to alcohol: alcoholic liquor. • caused by the excessive consumption of alcohol: alcoholic liver disease. 2 suffering from alcoholism: his alcoholic daughter was the cause of his anxiety. noun a person suffering from alcoholism. "

ambiguous

"ambiguous | amˈbɪɡjʊəs | adjective open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning: ambiguous phrases. • not clear or decided: the election result was ambiguous. DERIVATIVES ambiguousness | amˈbɪɡjʊəsnəs | noun ORIGIN early 16th century (in the sense 'indistinct, obscure'): from Latin ambiguus 'doubtful' (from ambigere 'waver, go around', from ambi- 'both ways' + agere 'to drive') + -ous."

ambitious

"ambitious | amˈbɪʃəs | adjective having or showing a strong desire and determination to succeed: a ruthlessly ambitious workaholic. • (of a plan or piece of work) intended to satisfy high aspirations and therefore difficult to achieve: an ambitious enterprise. DERIVATIVES ambitiousness | amˈbɪʃəsnəs | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French ambitieux or Latin ambitiosus, from ambitio (see ambition)."

announced

"announce | əˈnaʊns | verb make a formal public statement about a fact, occurrence, or intention: : the President's office announced that the siege would be lifted | : he announced his retirement from international football | : 'I have a confession to make,' she announced. • make known the arrival of (a guest) at a formal social occasion. • give information about (transport) in a station or airport via a public address system: they were announcing her train. ORIGIN late 15th century: from French annoncer, from Latin annuntiare, from ad- 'to' + nuntiare 'declare, announce' (from nuntius 'messenger')."

anonymity

"anonymity | anəˈnɪmɪti | noun the condition of being anonymous: the official spoke on condition of anonymity. • lack of outstanding, individual, or unusual features; impersonality: the anonymity of big city life definitely has its advantages. "

anticipation

"anticipation | antɪsɪˈpeɪʃ(ə)n | noun the action of anticipating something; expectation or prediction: her eyes sparkled with anticipation | they manned the telephones in anticipation of a flood of calls. • Music the introduction in a composition of part of a chord which is about to follow in full. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin anticipatio(n-), from the verb anticipare (see anticipate)."

apartment

"apartment | əˈpɑːtm(ə)nt | noun British a flat, typically one that is well appointed or used for holidays: self-catering holiday apartments. • North American a suite of rooms forming one residence; a flat: the family lived in a rented apartment. • North American a block of apartments: a district of six-storey apartments arranged along narrow streets. • (apartments) a set of private rooms in a very large house: the Imperial apartments. ORIGIN mid 17th century (denoting a private suite of rooms): from French appartement, from Italian appartamento, from appartare 'to separate', from a parte 'apart'."

apologies

"apology | əˈpɒlədʒi | noun (plural apologies) 1 a regretful acknowledgement of an offence or failure: we owe you an apology | my apologies for the delay. • (apologies) a formal expression of regret at being unable to attend a meeting or social function: Robert can't come and sends his apologies. 2 (an apology for) a very poor or inadequate example of: we were shown into an apology for a bedroom. 3 another term for apologia. PHRASES with apologies to used to introduce a parody or adaptation of a particular person's work: here, with apologies to Rudyard Kipling, is a more apt version of 'If'. ORIGIN mid 16th century (denoting a formal defence against an accusation): from French apologie, or via late Latin from Greek apologia 'a speech in one's own defence', from apo 'away' + -logia (see -logy)."

appearing

"appear | əˈpɪə | verb 1 come into sight; become visible or noticeable, especially without apparent cause: smoke appeared on the horizon. • come into existence or use: the major life forms appeared on earth. • be published or offered for sale: the paperback edition didn't appear for another two years. • present oneself formally in a court or tribunal: he appeared on six charges of theft. • perform publicly in a film, play, etc.: he appeared on Broadway. • feature or be shown: the symbol appears in many paintings of the period. • informal arrive at a place: by ten o'clock Bill still hadn't appeared. 2 seem; give the impression of being: : she appeared not to know what was happening | : it appears unlikely that interest rates will fall. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French apareir, from Latin apparere, from ad- 'towards' + parere 'come into view'."

appearances

"appearance | əˈpɪər(ə)ns | noun 1 the way that someone or something looks: she checked her appearance in the mirror. • an impression given by someone or something: she read it with every appearance of interest. 2 an act of performing or participating in a public event: he is well known for his television appearances. 3 an act of arriving or becoming visible: the sudden appearance of her daughter startled her. • a process of coming into existence or use: the appearance of the railway. PHRASES keep up appearances maintain an impression of wealth or well-being. make an appearance (also put in an appearance) attend an event briefly, typically out of courtesy. by all appearances (also to all appearances) as far as can be seen: by all appearances, he was successful | to all appearances, it had been a normal day. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French aparance, aparence, from late Latin apparentia, from Latin apparere (see appear)."

appliances

"appliance | əˈplʌɪəns | noun 1 a device or piece of equipment designed to perform a specific task: electrical and gas appliances. 2 (also fire appliance) British a fire engine: three fire appliances were rushed to the scene | one appliance attended the fire. 3 British the action or process of bringing something into operation: the appliance of science could increase crop yields. "

application

"application | aplɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 a formal request to be considered for a position or to be allowed to do or have something, submitted to an authority, institution, or organization: an application for leave | : licences are available on application | : an application form. 2 the action of putting something into operation: the application of general rules to particular cases | : massage has far-reaching medical applications. • practical use or relevance: this principle has no application to the present case. 3 the action of applying something to a surface: paints suitable for application on fabric | : a fresh application of make-up. • a medicinal substance applied to the skin: an application to relieve muscle pain. 4 sustained effort; hard work: the job takes a great deal of patience and application. 5 (also application program) Computing a program or piece of software designed to fulfil a particular purpose: a database application. DERIVATIVES applicational adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: via Old French from Latin applicatio(n-), from the verb applicare (see apply)."

appointment

"appointment | əˈpɔɪntm(ə)nt | noun 1 an arrangement to meet someone at a particular time and place: she made an appointment with my receptionist. 2 an act of assigning a job or position to someone: his appointment as President. • a job or position: she took up an appointment as head of communications. • a person appointed to a job or position: government ministers and other political appointments are frequently replaced. 3 (appointments) furniture or fittings: the room was spartan in its appointments. PHRASES by appointment having previously made an arrangement to do something: visits are by appointment only. by appointment to the Queen (in the UK) used by manufacturers to indicate that their products are sold to the queen and are therefore of guaranteed quality. power of appointment 1 power to select the holder of a particular job or position. 2 Law power to decide the disposal of property, in exercise of a right conferred by the owner. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French apointement, from apointer (see appoint)."

appropriate

"appropriate adjective | əˈprəʊprɪət | suitable or proper in the circumstances: this isn't the appropriate time or place | a measure appropriate to a wartime economy. verb | əˈprəʊprɪeɪt | 1 take (something) for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission: the accused had appropriated the property. 2 devote (money or assets) to a special purpose: there can be problems in appropriating funds for legal expenses. DERIVATIVES appropriator | əˈprəʊprɪeɪtə | noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from late Latin appropriatus, past participle of appropriare 'make one's own', from ad- 'to' + proprius 'own, proper'."

arranging

"arrange | əˈreɪn(d)ʒ | verb 1 put (things) in a neat, attractive, or required order: she had just finished arranging the flowers | the columns are arranged in 12 rows. 2 organize or make plans for (a future event): they hoped to arrange a meeting | : my aunt arranged for the furniture to be stored. • reach agreement about an action or event in advance: I arranged with my boss to have the time off | : they arranged to meet at eleven o'clock. • ensure that (something) is done or provided by organizing it in advance: accommodation can be arranged if required. 3 adapt (a musical composition) for performance with instruments or voices other than those originally specified: songs arranged for viola and piano. 4 archaic settle (a dispute or claim): the quarrel, partly by the interference of the Crown Prince, was arranged. DERIVATIVES arrangeable adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French arangier, from a- (from Latin ad 'to, at') + rangier 'put in order' (see range)."

arrangements

"arrangement | əˈreɪn(d)ʒm(ə)nt | noun 1 the action, process, or result of arranging or being arranged: the arrangement of the furniture in the room. • a thing that has been arranged in a neat or attractive way: an intricate arrangement of gravel paths. 2 (usually arrangements) a plan or preparation for a future event: all the arrangements for the wedding were made. • an agreement with someone to do something: the travel agents have an arrangement with the hotel | : by special arrangement, students can take a course in other degree programmes. 3 a musical composition arranged for performance with instruments or voices differing from those originally specified: Mozart's symphonies in arrangements for cello and piano. 4 archaic a settlement of a dispute or claim. "

assassins

"assassin | əˈsasɪn | noun 1 a person who murders an important person for political or religious reasons. 2 (Assassin) a member of the Nizari branch of Ismaili Muslims at the time of the Crusades, when the newly established sect ruled part of northern Persia (1094-1256). They were renowned as militant fanatics, and were popularly reputed to use hashish before going on murder missions. ORIGIN mid 16th century: from French, or from medieval Latin assassinus, from Arabic ḥašīšī 'hashish-eater'."

assembling

"assemble | əˈsɛmb(ə)l | verb 1 (of people) gather together in one place for a common purpose: a crowd had assembled outside the gates. • cause (people or things) to gather together for a common purpose: he assembled the surviving members of the group for a tour. • Entomology (of male moths) gather for mating in response to a pheromone released by a female: the males assemble and hang by their front legs within a yard or two of the female | (as noun assembling) : the assembling of male moths around a freshly emerged female. 2 fit together the separate component parts of (a machine or other object): my new machine is being assembled and my old one dismantled. 3 Computing translate (a program) from a higher-level programming language into machine code: assemble the program and produce a file suitable to input to the simulator. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French asembler, based on Latin ad- 'to' + simul 'together'."

assignment

"assignment | əˈsʌɪnm(ə)nt | noun 1 a task or piece of work allocated to someone as part of a job or course of study: a homework assignment. • the allocation of a job or task to someone: the effective assignment of tasks. 2 the allocation of someone or something as belonging to a particular group or category: the assignment of individuals to particular social positions. 3 an act of making a legal transfer of a right or liability: an assignment of leasehold property. • a document effecting a legal transfer of a right or liability. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French assignement, from medieval Latin assignamentum, from Latin assignare 'allot' (see assign)."

associations

"association | əsəʊʃɪˈeɪʃ(ə)n, əsəʊsɪˈeɪʃ(ə)n | noun 1 (often in names) a group of people organized for a joint purpose: the National Association of Probation Officers. • Ecology a stable plant community including a characteristic group of dominant plant species: a bog association containing ericaceous plants. 2 a connection or cooperative link between people or organizations: he developed a close association with the university | : the programme was promoted in association with the Department of Music. • the process or state of becoming a subordinate member of an organization: : an association agreement between Bulgaria and the EU. • Chemistry the linking of molecules through hydrogen bonding or other interaction short of full bond formation. 3 (usually associations) a mental connection between things: the word bureaucracy has unpleasant associations. • the action of making a mental connection: there's nothing new in the association of fasting with spirituality. • the state of occurring with something else; co-occurrence: cases of cancer found in association with colitis. DERIVATIVES associational adjective ORIGIN mid 16th century (in the sense 'uniting in a common purpose'): from medieval Latin associatio(n-), from Latin associare 'to unite, ally' (see associate)."

attachments

"attachment | əˈtatʃm(ə)nt | noun 1 an extra part or extension that is or may be attached to something to perform a particular function: the processor comes complete with a blender attachment. • a computer file appended to an email. 2 affection, fondness, or sympathy for someone or something: she felt a sentimental attachment to the place creep over her. • an affectionate relationship: he formed an attachment with a young widow. 3 British temporary secondment to an organization: the students are placed on attachment to schools for one day a week. 4 the action of attaching something: the case has a loop for attachment to your waist belt. • legal seizure of property. PHRASES attachment of earnings English Law payment of debts by direct deduction from the debtor's earnings, under a court order. ORIGIN late Middle English (in the sense 'arrest for contempt of court'): from Old French attachement, from atachier 'fasten, fix' (see attach)."

attempting

"attempt | əˈtɛm(p)t | verb make an effort to achieve or complete (something difficult): she attempted a comeback in 2001 | : troops shot civilians who attempted to flee. • try to climb to the top of (a mountain): the expedition was the first to attempt Everest. • archaic try to take (a life): he would not have attempted the life of a friend. noun an effort to achieve or complete a difficult task or action: : an attempt to halt the bombings. • an effort to surpass a record or conquer a mountain: an attempt on the unclimbed north-east ridge. • a bid to kill someone: Karakozov made an attempt on the Tsar's life. • a thing produced as a result of trying to make or achieve something: she picked her first attempt at a letter out of the wastebasket. DERIVATIVES attemptable adjective ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French attempter, from Latin attemptare, from ad- 'to' + temptare 'to tempt'."

attending

"attend | əˈtɛnd | verb 1 be present at (an event, meeting, or function): the whole sales force attended the conference | : her family were not invited to attend. • go regularly to (a school, church, or clinic): all children are required to attend school. 2 (attend to) deal with: he muttered that he had business to attend to. • give practical help and care to; look after: the severely wounded had two medics to attend to their wounds | : each of the beds in the intensive-care unit is attended by a nurse. • pay attention to: Alice hadn't attended to a word of his sermon. 3 escort and wait on (a member of royalty or other important person): Her Royal Highness was attended by Mrs Jane Stevens. 4 occur with or as a result of: people feared that the switch to a peacetime economy would be attended by a severe slump. DERIVATIVES attender | əˈtɛndə | noun ORIGIN Middle English (in the sense 'apply one's mind or energies to'): from Old French atendre, from Latin attendere, from ad- 'to' + tendere 'stretch'."

attendance

"attendance | əˈtɛnd(ə)ns | noun the action or state of going regularly to or being present at a place or event: my attendance at church was very patchy. • the number of people present at a particular place or event: she is being blamed for the museum's low attendances. PHRASES in attendance 1 present at a function or a place: some 200 were in attendance at the fourteenth reunion. 2 accompanying a member of royalty or other important person as an assistant or servant: Her Royal Highness travelled in an aircraft of The Queen's Flight, with Viscountess Campden in attendance. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French, from atendre 'give one's attention to' (see attend)."

attentive

"attentive | əˈtɛntɪv | adjective paying close attention to something: never before had she had such an attentive audience | ministers should be more attentive to the interests of taxpayers. • assiduously attending to the comfort or wishes of others; very polite or courteous: the hotel has a pleasant atmosphere and attentive service. ORIGIN late Middle English: from Old French attentif, -ive, from atendre 'give one's attention to' (see attend)."

attracted

"attract | əˈtrakt | verb cause to come to a place or participate in a venture by offering something of interest or advantage: a campaign to attract more visitors to Shetland | he hoped this strategy would attract foreign investment by multinationals. • evoke (a specified reaction): I did not want to attract attention | his criticism of the government attracted widespread support. • cause (someone) to have a liking for or interest in something: I was attracted to the idea of working for a ballet company. • (be attracted to) have a sexual or romantic interest in: I am not attracted to him at all. • exert a force on (an object) that is directed towards the source of the force: the negatively charged ions attract particles of dust. DERIVATIVES attractable adjective attractor noun ORIGIN late Middle English: from Latin attract- 'drawn near', from the verb attrahere, from ad- 'to' + trahere 'draw'."

authorities

"authority | ɔːˈθɒrɪti | noun (plural authorities) 1 the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience: he had absolute authority over his subordinates | a rebellion against those in authority. • the right to act in a specified way, delegated from one person or organization to another: military forces have the legal authority to arrest drug traffickers. • official permission; sanction: the money was spent without parliamentary authority. 2 (often authorities) a person or organization having political or administrative power and control: health authorities issued a worldwide alert. 3 the power to influence others, especially because of one's commanding manner or one's recognized knowledge about something: he has the natural authority of one who is used to being obeyed. • the confidence resulting from personal expertise: he hit the ball with authority. • a person with extensive or specialized knowledge about a subject; an expert: he was an authority on the stock market. • a book or other source able to supply reliable information or evidence: the court cited a series of authorities supporting their decision. PHRASES have something on good authority have ascertained something from a reliable source: I have it on good authority that there is a waiting list of up to five weeks. ORIGIN Middle English: from Old French autorite, from Latin auctoritas, from auctor 'originator, promoter' (see author)."

authorized

"authorized | ˈɔːθərʌɪzd | (British also authorised) adjective having official permission or approval: an authorized dealer | authorized access to the computer. "