233 Synonyms for "Said"

agreed

adjective 1. arranged or set by common consent: They met at the agreed time.

advised

adjective 1. considered (usually used in combination): ill-advised; well-advised. 2. informed; apprised: The president was kept thoroughly advised.

alleged

adjective 1. declared or stated to be as described; asserted: The alleged murderer could not be located for questioning. 2. doubtful; suspect; supposed: The alleged cure-all produced no results when it was tested by reputable doctors.

bantered

noun 1. an exchange of light, playful, teasing remarks; good-natured raillery. verb (used with object) 2. to address with banter; chaff. verb (used without object) 3. to use banter.

hinted

noun 1. an indirect, covert, or helpful suggestion; clue: Give me a hint as to his identity. 2. a very slight or hardly noticeable amount; soupçon: a hint of garlic in the salad dressing. 3. perceived indication or suggestion; note; intimation: a hint of spring in the air. 4. Obsolete. an occasion or opportunity. verb (used with object) 5. to give a hint of: gray skies hinting a possible snowfall. verb (used without object) 6. to make indirect suggestion or allusion; subtly imply (usually followed by at): The article hinted at corruption in the mayor's office.

confessed

verb (used with object) 1. to acknowledge or avow (a fault, crime, misdeed, weakness, etc.) by way of revelation. 2. to own or admit as true: I must confess that I haven't read the book. 3. to declare or acknowledge (one's sins), especially to God or a priest in order to obtain absolution. 4. (of a priest) to hear the confession of (a person). 5. to acknowledge one's belief or faith in; declare adherence to. 6. to reveal by circumstances. verb (used without object) 7. to make confession; plead guilty; own: to confess to a crime. 8. to make confession of sins, especially to a priest. 9. (of a priest) to hear confession.

contended

Synonyms Examples Word Origin verb (used without object) 1. to struggle in opposition: to contend with the enemy for control of the port. 2. to strive in rivalry; compete; vie: to contend for first prize. 3. to strive in debate; dispute earnestly: to contend against falsehood. verb (used with object) 4. to assert or maintain earnestly: He contended that taxes were too high.

elaborated

adjective 1. worked out with great care and nicety of detail; executed with great minuteness: elaborate preparations; elaborate care. Synonyms: perfected, painstaking. Antonyms: simple. 2. marked by intricate and often excessive detail; complicated; ornate. verb (used with object), elaborated, elaborating. 3. to work out carefully or minutely; develop to perfection. Synonyms: refine, improve. 4. to add details to; expand. 5. to produce or develop by labor. 6. Physiology. to convert (food, plasma, etc.) by means of chemical processes into a substance more suitable for use within the body. verb (used without object), elaborated, elaborating. 7. to add details in writing, speaking, etc.; give additional or fuller treatment (usually followed by on or upon): to elaborate upon a theme or an idea. Synonyms: refine, improve.

countered

adverb 1. in the wrong way; contrary to the right course; in the reverse or opposite direction. 2. contrary; in opposition (usually preceded by run or go): to run counter to the rules. adjective 3. opposite; opposed; contrary. noun 4. something that is opposite or contrary to something else. 5. a blow delivered in receiving or parrying another blow, as in boxing. 6. a statement or action made to refute, oppose, or nullify another statement or action. 7. Fencing. a circular parry. 8. a piece of leather or other material inserted between the lining and outside leather of a shoe or boot quarter to keep it stiff. 9. Nautical. the part of a stern that overhangs and projects aft of the sternpost of a vessel. 10. Also called void. Typesetting. any part of the face of a type that is less than type-high and is therefore not inked. 11. Engineering, Building Trades. a truss member subject to stress only under certain partial loadings of the truss. 12. the part of a horse's breast that lies between the shoulders and under the neck. Expand verb (used with object) 13. to go counter to; oppose; controvert. 14. to meet or answer (a move, blow, etc.) by another in return. verb (used without object) 15. to make a counter or opposing move. 16. to give a blow while receiving or parrying one, as in boxing.

fumed

noun 1. Often, fumes. any smokelike or vaporous exhalation from matter or substances, especially of an odorous or harmful nature: tobacco fumes; noxious fumes of carbon monoxide. 2. an irritable or angry mood: He has been in a fume ever since the contract fell through. verb (used with object), fumed, fuming. 3. to emit or exhale, as fumes or vapor: giant stacks fuming their sooty smoke. 4. to treat with or expose to fumes. 5. to show fretful irritation or anger: She always fumes when the mail is late. verb (used without object), fumed, fuming. 6. to rise, or pass off, as fumes: smoke fuming from an ashtray. 7. to emit fumes: The leaky pipe fumed alarmingly.

debated

noun 1. a discussion, as of a public question in an assembly, involving opposing viewpoints: a debate in the Senate on farm price supports. 2. a formal contest in which the affirmative and negative sides of a proposition are advocated by opposing speakers. 3. deliberation; consideration. 4. Archaic. strife; contention. verb (used without object), debated, debating. 5. to engage in argument or discussion, as in a legislative or public assembly: When we left, the men were still debating. 6. to participate in a formal debate. 7. to deliberate; consider: I debated with myself whether to tell them the truth or not. 8. Obsolete. to fight; quarrel. verb (used with object), debated, debating. 9. to argue or discuss (a question, issue, or the like), as in a legislative or public assembly: They debated the matter of free will. 10. to dispute or disagree about: The homeowners debated the value of a road on the island. 11. to engage in formal argumentation or disputation with (another person, group, etc.): Jones will debate Smith. Harvard will debate Princeton. 12. to deliberate upon; consider: He debated his decision in the matter. 13. Archaic. to contend for or over.

feared

noun 1. a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid. Synonyms: foreboding, apprehension, consternation, dismay, dread, terror, fright, panic, horror, trepidation, qualm. Antonyms: courage, security, calm, intrepidity. 2. a specific instance of or propensity for such a feeling: an abnormal fear of heights. Synonyms: phobia, aversion; bête noire, bogy, bogey, bugbear. Antonyms: liking, fondness, penchant, predilection. 3. concern or anxiety; solicitude: a fear for someone's safety. 4. reverential awe, especially toward God: the fear of God. Synonyms: awe, respect, reverence, veneration. 5. something that causes feelings of dread or apprehension; something a person is afraid of: Cancer is a common fear. 6. anticipation of the possibility that something unpleasant will occur: Having grown up during the Great Depression, he had a constant fear of running out of money. verb (used with object) 7. to regard with fear; be afraid of. Synonyms: apprehend, dread. 8. to have reverential awe of. Synonyms: revere, venerate, honor. 9. to consider or anticipate (something unpleasant) with a feeling of dread or alarm: It's about to snow again, I fear. 10. Archaic. to experience fear in (oneself): I fear me he will ne'er forgive us. verb (used without object) 11. to have fear; be afraid: I'll go with you, so do not fear! 12. to feel apprehensive or uneasy (usually followed by for): In this time of economic instability, I fear for my children's future. Idioms 13. for fear of /that, in order to prevent or avoid the risk of: She is afraid to say anything for fear of the consequences. 14. put the fear of God in /into, to cause to be greatly afraid.

groaned

noun 1. a low, mournful sound uttered in pain or grief: the groans of dying soldiers. 2. a deep, inarticulate sound uttered in derision, disapproval, desire, etc. 3. a deep grating or creaking sound due to a sudden or continued overburdening, as with a great weight: We heard the groan of the ropes as the crane lowered the heavy cargo into the ship's hold. verb (used without object) 4. to utter a deep, mournful sound expressive of pain or grief. 5. to make a deep, inarticulate sound expressive of derision, disapproval, desire, etc. 6. to make a sound resembling a groan; resound harshly: The steps of the old house groaned under my weight. 7. to be overburdened or overloaded. 8. to suffer greatly or lamentably: groaning under an intolerable burden. verb (used with object) 9. to utter or express with groans.

commented

noun 1. a remark, observation, or criticism: a comment about the weather. 2. gossip; talk: His frequent absences gave rise to comment. 3. a criticism or interpretation, often by implication or suggestion: The play is a comment on modern society. 4. a user response to published content on the Internet, written in a designated "Comments" section, often below the published content: There were many online comments criticizing the author. 5. a note in explanation, expansion, or criticism of a passage in a book, article, or the like; annotation. 6. explanatory or critical matter added to a text. 7. Also called rheme. Linguistics. the part of a sentence that communicates new information about the topic. Compare topic (def 4). verb (used without object) 8. to make remarks, observations, or criticisms: He refused to comment on the decision of the court. 9. to write explanatory or critical notes upon a text. verb (used with object) 10. to make comments or remarks on; furnish with comments; annotate.

cautioned

noun 1. alertness and prudence in a hazardous situation; care; wariness: Landslides ahead—proceed with caution. 2. a warning against danger or evil; anything serving as a warning: By way of caution, he told me the difficulties I would face. 3. Informal. a person or thing that astonishes or causes mild apprehension: She's a caution. The way he challenges your remarks is a caution. verb (used with object) 4. to give warning to; advise or urge to take heed. verb (used without object) 5. to warn or advise: The newspapers caution against overoptimism.

bargained

noun 1. an advantageous purchase, especially one acquired at less than the usual cost: The sale offered bargains galore. 2. an agreement between parties settling what each shall give and take or perform and receive in a transaction. 3. such an agreement as affecting one of the parties: a losing bargain. 4. something acquired by bargaining. 5. Informal. an agreeable person, especially one who causes no trouble or difficulty (usually used in negative constructions): His boss is no bargain. verb (used without object) 6. to discuss the terms of a bargain; haggle; negotiate. 7. to come to an agreement; make a bargain: We bargained on a three-year term. verb (used with object) 8. to arrange by bargain; negotiate: to bargain a new wage increase. 9. to anticipate as likely to occur; expect (usually followed by a clause): I'll bargain that he's going to give those company directors plenty of trouble. Verb phrases 10. bargain for, to anticipate or take into account: The job turned out to be more than he had bargained for. 11. bargain on, to expect or anticipate; count or rely on: You can't bargain on what she'll do in this situation. Idioms 12. in /into the bargain, over and above what has been stipulated; moreover; besides: The new housekeeper proved to be a fine cook in the bargain. 13. strike a bargain, to make a bargain; agree to terms: They were unable to strike a bargain because the owner's asking price was more than the prospective buyer could afford.

barked

noun 1. the abrupt, harsh, explosive cry of a dog. 2. a similar sound made by another animal, as a fox. 3. a short, explosive sound, as of firearms: the bark of a revolver. 4. a brusque order, reply, etc.: The foreman's bark sent the idlers back to their machines. 5. a cough. verb (used without object) 6. (of a dog or other animal) to utter an abrupt, explosive cry or a series of such cries. 7. to make a similar sound: The big guns barked. 8. to speak or cry out sharply or gruffly: a man who barks at his children. 9. Informal. to advertise a theater performance, carnival sideshow, or the like, by standing at the entrance and calling out to passersby. 10. to cough. verb (used with object) 11. to utter in a harsh, shouting tone: barking orders at her subordinates. Idioms 12. bark at the moon, to protest in vain: Telling her that she's misinformed is just barking at the moon. 13. bark up the wrong tree, to assail or pursue the wrong person or object; misdirect one's efforts: If he expects me to get him a job, he's barking up the wrong tree.

counseled

noun, plural counsel for 3. 1. advice; opinion or instruction given in directing the judgment or conduct of another. 2. interchange of opinions as to future procedure; consultation; deliberation. 3. Law. (used with a singular or plural verb) the advocate or advocates engaged in the direction of a cause in court; a legal adviser or counselor : Is counsel for the defense present? 4. deliberate purpose; plan; design. 5. Theology. one of the advisory declarations of Christ, considered by some Christians as not universally binding but as given for aid in attaining moral perfection. 6. Archaic. a private or secret opinion or purpose. 7. Obsolete. wisdom; prudence. verb (used with object), counseled, counseling or (especially British) counselled, counselling. 8. to give advice to; advise. 9. to urge the adoption of, as a course of action; recommend (a plan, policy, etc.): He counseled patience during the crisis. verb (used without object), counseled, counseling or (especially British) counselled, counselling. 10. to give counsel or advice. 11. to get or take counsel or advice. Idioms 12. keep one's own counsel, to conceal one's ideas or opinions; keep silent. 13. take counsel, to ask for or exchange advice, ideas, or opinions; deliberate; consult.

entreated

verb (used with object) 1. to ask (a person) earnestly; beseech; implore; beg: to entreat the judge for mercy. 2. to ask earnestly for (something): He entreated help in his work. verb (used without object) 3. to make an earnest request or petition.

demanded

verb (used with object) 1. to ask for with proper authority; claim as a right: He demanded payment of the debt. 2. to ask for peremptorily or urgently: He demanded sanctuary. She demanded that we let her in. 3. to call for or require as just, proper, or necessary: This task demands patience. Justice demands objectivity. 4. Law. to lay formal legal claim to. to summon, as to court. verb (used without object) 5. to make a demand; inquire; ask. noun 6. the act of demanding. 7. something that is demanded. 8. an urgent or pressing requirement: demands upon one's time. 9. Economics. the desire to purchase, coupled with the power to do so. the quantity of goods that buyers will take at a particular price. 10. a requisition; a legal claim: The demands of the client could not be met. 11. the state of being wanted or sought for purchase or use: an article in great demand. 12. Archaic. inquiry; question. Idioms 13. on demand, upon presentation or request for payment: The fee is payable on demand.

contradicted

verb (used with object) 1. to assert the contrary or opposite of; deny directly and categorically. 2. to speak contrary to the assertions of: to contradict oneself. 3. (of an action or event) to imply a denial of: His way of life contradicts his stated principles. 4. Obsolete. to speak or declare against; oppose. verb (used without object) 5. to utter a contrary statement.

attested

verb (used with object) 1. to bear witness to; certify; declare to be correct, true, or genuine; declare the truth of, in words or writing, especially affirm in an official capacity: to attest the truth of a statement. 2. to give proof or evidence of; manifest: His works attest his industry. 3. to put on oath. verb (used without object) 4. to testify or bear witness (often followed by to): to attest to the reliability of an employee. noun 5. Archaic. witness; testimony; attestation.

granted

verb (used with object) 1. to bestow or confer, especially by a formal act: to grant a charter. 2. to give or accord: to grant permission. 3. to agree or accede to: to grant a request. 4. to admit or concede; accept for the sake of argument: I grant that point. 5. to transfer or convey, especially by deed or writing: to grant property. noun 6. something granted, as a privilege or right, a sum of money, or a tract of land: Several major foundations made large grants to fund the research project. 7. the act of granting. 8. Law. a transfer of property. 9. a geographical unit in Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire, originally a grant of land to a person or group of people. Idioms 10. take for granted, to accept without question or objection; assume: Your loyalty to the cause is taken for granted. to use, accept, or treat in a careless or indifferent manner: A marriage can be headed for trouble if either spouse begins to take the other for granted.

disrupted

verb (used with object) 1. to cause disorder or turmoil in: The news disrupted their conference. 2. to destroy, usually temporarily, the normal continuance or unity of; interrupt: Telephone service was disrupted for hours. 3. to break apart: to disrupt a connection. 4. Business. to radically change (an industry, business strategy, etc.), as by introducing a new product or service that creates a new market: It's time to disrupt your old business model. adjective 5. broken apart; disrupted.

admonished

verb (used with object) 1. to caution, advise, or counsel against something. 2. to reprove or scold, especially in a mild and good-willed manner: The teacher admonished him about excessive noise. 3. to urge to a duty; remind: to admonish them about their obligations.

called

verb (used with object) 1. to cry out in a loud voice; shout: He called her name to see if she was home. 2. to command or request to come; summon: to call a dog; to call a cab; to call a witness. 3. to ask or invite to come: Will you call the family to dinner? 4. to communicate or try to communicate with by telephone: Call me when you arrive. 5. to rouse from sleep, as by a call; waken: Call me at eight o'clock. 6. to read over (a roll or a list) in a loud voice. 7. to convoke or convene: to call Congress into session. 8. to announce authoritatively; proclaim: to call a halt. 9. to order into effect; establish: to call a strike. 10. to schedule: to call a rehearsal. 11. to summon by or as if by divine command: He felt called to the ministry. 12. to summon to an office, duty, etc.: His country called him to the colors. 13. to cause to come; bring: to call to mind; to call into existence. 14. to bring under consideration or discussion: The judge called the case to court. 15. to attract or lure (birds or animals) by imitating characteristic sounds. 16. to direct or attract (attention): He called his roommate's attention to the mess. 17. to name or address (someone) as: His parents named him James, but the boys call him Jim. 18. to designate as something specified: He called me a liar. 19. to think of as something specified; consider; estimate: I call that a mean remark. 20. to demand of (someone) that he or she fulfill a promise, furnish evidence for a statement, etc.: They called him on his story. 21. to criticize adversely; express disapproval of; censure (often followed by out): She called him on his vulgar language. 22. to demand payment or fulfillment of (a loan). 23. to demand presentation of (bonds) for redemption. 24. to forecast correctly: He has called the outcome of the last three elections. 25. Sports. to pronounce a judgment on (a shot, pitch, batter, etc.): The umpire called the pitch a strike. to put an end to (a contest) because of inclement weather, poor field conditions, etc.: A sudden downpour forced the umpire to call the game. 26. Pool. to name (the ball) one intends to drive into a particular pocket. 27. (in a computer program) to transfer control of to a procedure or subroutine. 28. Cards. to demand (a card). to demand the display of a hand by (a player). Poker. to equal (a bet) or equal the bet made by (the preceding bettor) in a round. Bridge. to signal one's partner for a lead of (a certain card or suit). Expand verb (used without object) 29. to speak loudly, as to attract attention; shout; cry: She called to the children. 30. to make a short visit; stop at a place on some errand or business: She called at the store for the package. 31. to telephone or try to telephone a person: He promised to call at noon. 32. Cards. to demand a card. to demand a showing of hands. Poker. to equal a bet. Bridge. to bid or pass. 33. (of a bird or animal) to utter its characteristic cry. noun 34. a cry or shout. 35. the cry or vocal sound of a bird or other animal. 36. an instrument for imitating this cry and attracting or luring an animal: He bought a duck call. 37. an act or instance of telephoning: She went into the next room to place her call. 38. a short visit: to make a call on someone. 39. a summons or signal sounded by a bugle, bell, etc.: We live so close to the fort that we can hear the bugle calls. 40. a summons, invitation, or bidding: The students gathered at the call of the dean. 41. a calling of a roll; roll call. 42. the fascination or appeal of a given place, vocation, etc.: the call of the sea. 43. a mystic experience of divine appointment to a vocation or service: He had a call to become a minister. 44. a request or invitation to become pastor of a church, a professor in a university, etc. 45. a need or occasion: He had no call to say such outrageous things. 46. a demand or claim: to make a call on a person's time. 47. a demand for payment of an obligation, especially where payment is at the option of the creditor. 48. Cards. a demand for a card or a showing of hands. Poker. an equaling of the preceding bet. Bridge. a bid or pass. 49. Sports. a judgment or decision by an umpire, a referee, or other official of a contest, as on a shot, pitch, or batter: The referees were making one bad call after another. 50. Theater. a notice of rehearsal posted by the stage manager. act call. curtain call. 51. Dance. a figure or direction in square dancing, announced to the dancers by the caller. 52. Also called call option. Finance. an option that gives the right to buy a fixed amount of a particular stock at a predetermined price within a given period of time, purchased by a person who believes the price will rise. Compare put (def 24). 53. Fox Hunting. any of several cries, or sounds made on a horn by the hunter to encourage the hounds. Expand Verb phrases 54. call away, to cause to leave or go; summon: A death in the family called him away. 55. call back, to summon or bring back; recall: He called back the messenger. The actor was called back for a second audition. to revoke; retract: to call back an accusation. 56. call down, to request or pray for; invoke: to call down the wrath of God. to reprimand; scold: The boss called us down for lateness. 57. call for, to go or come to get; pick up; fetch. to request; summon. to require; demand; need: The occasion calls for a cool head. 58. call forth, to summon into action; bring into existence: to call forth her courage and resolve. 59. call in, to call for payment; collect. to withdraw from circulation: to call in gold certificates. to call upon for consultation; ask for help: Two specialists were called in to assist in the operation. to inform or report by telephone: Did he call in his decision this morning? to participate in a radio or television program by telephone. 60. call in /into question. question (def 17). Expand Idioms 65. call in sick. sick1(def 14). 66. call to order. order (def 48). 67. on call, payable or subject to return without advance notice. readily available for summoning upon short notice. 68. take a call, to acknowledge the applause of the audience after a performance by appearing for a bow or a curtain call. 69. within call, within distance or range of being spoken to or summoned: Please stay within call.

avowed

verb (used with object) 1. to declare frankly or openly; own; acknowledge; confess; admit: He avowed himself an opponent of all alliances.

claimed

verb (used with object) 1. to demand by or as by virtue of a right; demand as a right or as due: to claim an estate by inheritance. 2. to assert and demand the recognition of (a right, title, possession, etc.); assert one's right to: to claim payment for services. 3. to assert or maintain as a fact: She claimed that he was telling the truth. 4. to require as due or fitting: to claim respect. verb (used without object) 5. to make or file a claim: to claim for additional compensation. noun 6. a demand for something as due; an assertion of a right or an alleged right: He made unreasonable claims on the doctor's time. 7. an assertion of something as a fact: He made no claims to originality. 8. a right to claim or demand; a just title to something: His claim to the heavyweight title is disputed. 9. something that is claimed, especially a piece of public land for which formal request is made for mining or other purposes. 10. a request or demand for payment in accordance with an insurance policy, a workers' compensation law, etc.: We filed a claim for compensation from the company. Idioms 11. lay claim to, to declare oneself entitled to: I have never laid claim to being an expert in tax laws.

commanded

verb (used with object) 1. to direct with specific authority or prerogative; order: The captain commanded his men to attack. 2. to require authoritatively; demand: She commanded silence. 3. to have or exercise authority or control over; be master of; have at one's bidding or disposal: The Pharaoh commanded 10,000 slaves. 4. to deserve and receive (respect, sympathy, attention, etc.): He commands much respect for his attitude. 5. to dominate by reason of location; overlook: The hill commands the sea. 6. to have authority over and responsibility for (a military or naval unit or installation); be in charge of. verb (used without object) 7. to issue an order or orders. 8. to be in charge; have authority. 9. to occupy a dominating position; look down upon or over a body of water, region, etc. noun 10. the act of commanding or ordering. 11. an order given by one in authority: The colonel gave the command to attack. 12. Military. an order in prescribed words, usually given in a loud voice to troops at close-order drill: The command was "Right shoulder arms!". the order of execution or the second part of any two-part close-order drill command, as face in Right face! (initial capital letter) a principal component of the U.S. Air Force: Strategic Air Command. a body of troops or a station, ship, etc., under a commander. 13. the possession or exercise of controlling authority: a lieutenant in command of a platoon. 14. expertise; mastery: He has a command of French, Russian, and German. 15. British. a royal order. 16. power of dominating a region by reason of location; extent of view or outlook: the command of the valley from the hill. 17. Computers. an electric impulse, signal, or set of signals for initiating an operation in a computer. a character, symbol, or item of information for instructing a computer to perform a specific task. a single instruction.

allowed

verb (used with object) 1. to give permission to or for; permit: to allow a student to be absent; No swimming allowed. 2. to let have; give as one's share; grant as one's right: to allow a person $100 for expenses. 3. to permit by neglect, oversight, or the like: to allow a door to remain open. 4. to admit; acknowledge; concede: to allow a claim. 5. to take into consideration, as by adding or subtracting; set apart: to allow an hour for changing trains. 6. Older Use. to say; think. 7. Archaic. to approve; sanction. verb (used without object) 8. to permit something to happen or to exist; admit (often followed by of): to spend more than one's budget allows; a premise that allows of only one conclusion. Idioms 9. allow for, to make concession or provision for: to allow for breakage.

imparted

verb (used with object) 1. to make known; tell; relate; disclose: to impart a secret. 2. to give; bestow; communicate: to impart knowledge. 3. to grant a part or share of. verb (used without object) 4. to grant a part or share; give.

explained

verb (used with object) 1. to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible: to explain an obscure point. Synonyms: explicate. Antonyms: confuse. 2. to make known in detail: to explain how to do something. 3. to assign a meaning to; interpret: How can you explain such a silly remark? 4. to make clear the cause or reason of; account for: I cannot explain his strange behavior. Synonyms: justify. verb (used without object) 5. to give an explanation. Verb phrases 6. explain away, to diminish or nullify the significance of by explanation: He couldn't explain away his absence from home at the time the robbery was committed. to dispel (doubts, difficulties, etc.) by explanation: She explained away the child's fears.

directed

verb (used with object) 1. to manage or guide by advice, helpful information, instruction, etc.: He directed the company through a difficult time. 2. to regulate the course of; control: History is directed by a small number of great men and women. 3. to administer; manage; supervise: She directs the affairs of the estate. 4. to give authoritative instructions to; command; order or ordain: I directed him to leave the room. 5. to serve as a director in the production or performance of (a musical work, play, motion picture, etc.). 6. to guide, tell, or show (a person) the way to a place: I directed him to the post office. 7. to point, aim, or send toward a place or object: to direct radio waves around the globe. 8. to channel or focus toward a given result, object, or end (often followed by to or toward): She directed all her energies toward the accomplishment of the work. 9. to address (words, a speech, a written report, etc.) to a person or persons: The secretary directed his remarks to two of the committee members. 10. to address (a letter, package, etc.) to an intended recipient. Expand verb (used without object) 11. to act as a guide. 12. to give commands or orders. 13. to serve as the director of a play, film, orchestra, etc. adjective 14. proceeding in a straight line or by the shortest course; straight; undeviating; not oblique: a direct route. 15. proceeding in an unbroken line of descent; lineal rather than collateral: a direct descendant. 16. Mathematics. (of a proportion) containing terms of which an increase (or decrease) in one results in an increase (or decrease) in another: a term is said to be in direct proportion to another term if one increases (or decreases) as the other increases (or decreases). (of a function) the function itself, in contrast to its inverse. Compare inverse (def 2). 17. without intervening persons, influences, factors, etc.; immediate; personal: direct contact with the voters; direct exposure to a disease. 18. straightforward; frank; candid: the direct remarks of a forthright individual. 19. absolute; exact: the direct opposite. 20. consisting exactly of the words originally used; verbatim: direct quotation. 21. Government. of or by action of voters, which takes effect without representatives or another intervening agency, as in direct democracy. 22. inevitable; consequential: War will be a direct result of such political action. 23. allocated for or arising from a particular known agency, process, job, etc.: The new machine was listed by the accountant as a direct cost. 24. Electricity. of or relating to direct current. 25. Astronomy. moving in an orbit in the same direction as the earth in its revolution around the sun. appearing to move on the celestial sphere in the direction of the natural order of the signs of the zodiac, from west to east. Compare retrograde (def 4). 26. Surveying. (of a telescope) in its normal position; not inverted or transited. 27. (of dye colors) working without the use of a mordant; substantive. Expand adverb 28. in a direct manner; directly; straight: Answer me direct.

enjoined

verb (used with object) 1. to prescribe (a course of action) with authority or emphasis: The doctor enjoined a strict diet. 2. to direct or order to do something: He was enjoined to live more frugally. 3. Law. to prohibit or restrain by an injunction.

expressed

verb (used with object) 1. to put (thought) into words; utter or state: to express an idea clearly. 2. to show, manifest, or reveal: to express one's anger. 3. to set forth the opinions, feelings, etc., of (oneself), as in speaking, writing, or painting: He can express himself eloquently. 4. to represent by a symbol, character, figure, or formula: to express water as H 2 O; to express unknown quantities algebraically. 5. to send by express: to express a package or merchandise. 6. to press or squeeze out: to express the juice of grapes. 7. to exude or emit (a liquid, odor, etc.), as if under pressure: The roses expressed a sweet perfume. 8. Genetics. (of a gene) to be active in the production of (a protein or a phenotype). Expand adjective 9. clearly indicated; distinctly stated; definite; explicit; plain: He defied my express command. 10. special; definite: We have an express purpose in being here. 11. direct or fast, especially making few or no intermediate stops: an express train; an express elevator. 12. used for direct or high-speed travel: an express highway. 13. duly or exactly formed or represented: an express image. 14. pertaining to an express: an express agency. noun 15. an express train, bus, elevator, etc. 16. a system or method of sending freight, parcels, money, etc., that is faster and safer, but more expensive, than ordinary freight service: We agree to send the package by express. 17. a company engaged in this business. 18. British. a messenger or a message specially sent. 19. something sent by express. adverb 20. by express: to travel express. 21. Obsolete, expressly.

asked

verb (used with object) 1. to put a question to; inquire of: I asked him but he didn't answer. 2. to request information about: to ask the way. 3. to try to get by using words; request: to ask advice; to ask a favor. 4. to solicit from; request of: Could I ask you a favor? Ask her for advice. 5. to demand; expect: What price are they asking? A little silence is all I ask. 6. to set a price of: to ask $20 for the hat. 7. to call for; need; require: This experiment asks patience. 8. to invite: to ask guests to dinner. 9. Archaic. to publish (banns). Expand verb (used without object) 10. to make inquiry; inquire: to ask about a person. 11. to request or petition (usually followed by for): to ask for leniency; to ask for food. Idioms 12. ask for it, to risk or invite trouble, danger, punishment, etc., by persisting in some action or manner: He was asking for it by his abusive remarks.

affirmed

verb (used with object) 1. to state or assert positively; maintain as true: to affirm one's loyalty to one's country; He affirmed that all was well. 2. to confirm or ratify: The appellate court affirmed the judgment of the lower court. 3. to assert solemnly: He affirmed his innocence. 4. to express agreement with or commitment to; uphold; support: to affirm human rights. verb (used without object) 5. Law. to state something solemnly before a court or magistrate, but without oath. to ratify and accept a voidable transaction. (of an appellate court) to determine that the action of the lower court shall stand.

asserted

verb (used with object) 1. to state with assurance, confidence, or force; state strongly or positively; affirm; aver: He asserted his innocence of the crime. 2. to maintain or defend (claims, rights, etc.). 3. to state as having existence; affirm; postulate: to assert a first cause as necessary. Idioms 4. assert oneself, to insist on one's rights, declare one's views forcefully, etc.: The candidate finally asserted himself about property taxes.

added

verb (used with object) 1. to unite or join so as to increase the number, quantity, size, or importance: to add two cups of sugar; to add a postscript to her letter; to add insult to injury. 2. to find the sum of (often followed by up): Add this column of figures. Add up the grocery bills. 3. to say or write further. 4. to include (usually followed by in): Don't forget to add in the tip. verb (used without object) 5. to perform the arithmetic operation of addition : children learning to add and subtract. 6. to be or serve as an addition (usually followed by to): His illness added to the family's troubles. noun 7. Journalism. copy added to a completed story. Verb phrases 8. add up to, to signify; indicate: The evidence adds up to a case of murder. Idioms 9. add up, to make the desired, expected, or correct total: These figures don't add up right. to seem reasonable or consistent; be in harmony or accord: Some aspects of the story didn't add up.

beseeched

verb (used with object), besought or beseeched, beseeching. 1. to implore urgently: They besought him to go at once. 2. to beg eagerly for; solicit. verb (used without object), besought or beseeched, beseeching. 3. to make urgent appeal: Earnestly did I beseech, but to no avail.

acknowledged

verb (used with object), acknowledged, acknowledging. 1. to admit to be real or true; recognize the existence, truth, or fact of: to acknowledge one's mistakes. 2. to show or express recognition or realization of: to acknowledge an acquaintance by nodding. 3. to recognize the authority, validity, or claims of: The students acknowledged the authority of the student council. 4. to show or express appreciation or gratitude for: to acknowledge a favor. 5. to indicate or make known the receipt of: to acknowledge a letter. 6. to take notice of or reply to: to acknowledge a greeting. 7. Law. to confirm as binding or of legal force: to acknowledge a deed.

addresed

verb (used with object), addressed, addressing. 11. to direct a speech or written statement to: to address an assembly. 12. to use a specified form or title in speaking or writing to: Address the president as "Mr. President.". 13. to direct to the attention: He addressed his remarks to the lawyers in the audience. 14. to apply in speech (used reflexively, usually followed by to): He addressed himself to the leader. 15. to deal with or discuss: to address the issues. 16. to put the directions for delivery on: to address a letter. 17. Commerce. to consign or entrust to the care of another, as agent or factor. 18. to direct the energy or efforts of (usually followed by to): He addressed himself to the task. 19. to direct (data) to a specified location in an electronic computer. 20. Golf. to take a stance and place the head of the club behind (the ball) preparatory to hitting it. 21. Obsolete. to woo; court. 22. Archaic. to give direction to; aim. 23. Obsolete. to prepare. Expand verb (used without object), addressed or addrest, addressing. Obsolete 24. to make an appeal. 25. to make preparations.

admitted

verb (used with object), admitted, admitting. 1. to allow to enter; grant or afford entrance to: to admit a student to college. 2. to give right or means of entrance to: This ticket admits two people. 3. to permit to exercise a certain function or privilege: admitted to the bar. 4. to permit; allow. 5. to allow or concede as valid: to admit the force of an argument. 6. to acknowledge; confess: He admitted his guilt. 7. to grant in argument; concede: The fact is admitted. 8. to have capacity for: This passage admits two abreast. Expand verb (used without object), admitted, admitting. 9. to permit entrance; give access: This door admits to the garden. 10. to permit the possibility of something; allow (usually followed by of): The contract admits of no other interpretation.

advocated

verb (used with object), advocated, advocating. 1. to speak or write in favor of; support or urge by argument; recommend publicly: He advocated higher salaries for teachers. noun 2. a person who speaks or writes in support or defense of a person, cause, etc. (usually followed by of): an advocate of peace. 3. a person who pleads for or in behalf of another; intercessor. 4. a person who pleads the cause of another in a court of law.

announced

verb (used with object), announced, announcing. 1. to make known publicly or officially; proclaim; give notice of: to announce a special sale. 2. to state the approach or presence of: to announce guests; to announce dinner. 3. to make known to the mind or senses. 4. to serve as an announcer of: The mayor announced the program. 5. to state; declare. 6. to state in advance; declare beforehand. 7. to write, or have printed, and send a formal declaration of an event, especially a social event, as a wedding. verb (used without object), announced, announcing. 8. to be employed or serve as an announcer, especially of a radio or television broadcast: She announces for the local radio station. 9. to declare one's candidacy, as for a political office (usually followed by for): We are hoping that he will announce for governor.

approved

verb (used with object), approved, approving. 1. to speak or think favorably of; pronounce or consider agreeable or good; judge favorably: to approve the policies of the administration. 2. to consent or agree to: Father approved our plan to visit Chicago. 3. to confirm or sanction formally; ratify: The Senate promptly approved the bill. 4. Obsolete. to demonstrate; show. to make good; attest. to prove by trial. to convict. verb (used without object), approved, approving. 5. to speak or consider favorably (sometimes followed by of): Mother didn't approve of him. The boss wouldn't approve of the plan. He said that he approved.

assumed

verb (used with object), assumed, assuming. 1. to take for granted or without proof: to assume that everyone wants peace. Synonyms: suppose, presuppose; postulate, posit. 2. to take upon oneself; undertake: to assume an obligation. 3. to take over the duties or responsibilities of: to assume the office of treasurer. 4. to take on (a particular character, quality, mode of life, etc.); adopt: He assumed the style of an aggressive go-getter. 5. to take on; be invested or endowed with: The situation assumed a threatening character. 6. to pretend to have or be; feign: to assume a humble manner. 7. to appropriate or arrogate; seize; usurp: to assume a right to oneself; to assume control. 8. to take upon oneself (the debts or obligations of another). 9. Archaic. to take into relation or association; adopt. Expand verb (used without object), assumed, assuming. 10. to take something for granted; presume.

assured

verb (used with object), assured, assuring. 1. to declare earnestly to; inform or tell positively; state with confidence to: She assured us that everything would turn out all right. 2. to cause to know surely; reassure : He assured himself that no one was left on the bus. 3. to pledge or promise; give surety of; guarantee: He was assured a job in the spring. 4. to make (a future event) sure; ensure: This contract assures the company's profit this month. 5. to secure or confirm; render safe or stable: to assure a person's position. 6. to give confidence to; encourage. 7. Chiefly British. to insure, as against loss.

begged

verb (used with object), begged, begging. 1. to ask for as a gift, as charity, or as a favor: to beg alms; to beg forgiveness. 2. to ask (someone) to give or do something; implore: He begged me for mercy. Sit down, I beg you. 3. to take for granted without basis or justification: a statement that begs the very point we're disputing. 4. to fail or refuse to come to grips with; avoid; evade: a report that consistently begs the whole problem. verb (used without object), begged, begging. 5. to ask alms or charity; live by asking alms. 6. to ask humbly or earnestly: begging for help; begging to differ. 7. (of a dog) to sit up, as trained, in a posture of entreaty. Verb phrases 8. beg off, to request or obtain release from an obligation, promise, etc.: He had promised to drive us to the recital but begged off at the last minute. Idioms 9. beg the question, to assume the truth of the very point raised in a question. 10. go begging, to remain open or available, as a position that is unfilled or an unsold item: The job went begging for lack of qualified applicants.

brought forth

verb (used with object), brought, bringing. 1. to carry, convey, conduct, or cause (someone or something) to come with, to, or toward the speaker: Bring the suitcase to my house. He brought his brother to my office. 2. to cause to come to or toward oneself; attract: Her scream brought the police. He brought honor to his family by his heroism. 3. to cause to occur or exist: The medication brought instant relief. 4. to cause to come into a particular position, state, or effect: to bring the car to a stop. 5. to cause to appear or occur in the mind; evoke or recall: The letter brought her memories of youth. 6. to persuade, convince, compel, or induce: She couldn't bring herself to sell the painting. 7. to sell for; fetch: These lamps will bring a good price. 8. Law. to commence: to bring an action for damages. Expand Verb phrases 9. bring about, to accomplish; cause: Land reform brought about a great change in the lives of the common people. 10. bring around /round, to convince of a belief or opinion; persuade: I think we can bring him around to agreeing with the plan. to restore to consciousness, as after a faint. to bring as a visitor: They brought around a new employee this morning. 11. bring down, to injure, capture, or kill: He brought down several ducks on his last hunting trip. to lessen; reduce: I won't buy that lamp unless they bring down the price. Slang. to cause to be in low spirits; depress: The bad news brought him down. 12. bring forth, to give birth to; deliver; bear: to bring forth a son. to give rise to; introduce: to bring forth a proposal for reducing costs. 13. bring forward, to bring to view; show. to present for consideration; adduce: to bring forward an opinion. 14. bring in, to yield, as profits or income: My part-time job doesn't bring in much, but I enjoy it. to present officially; submit: The jury brought in its verdict. to cause to operate or yield: They brought in a gusher on his property. to present for consideration, approval, etc.; introduce: She brought in six new members last month. 15. bring off, to accomplish, carry out, or achieve (something): He brought off his speech with ease. 16. bring on, to cause to happen or exist; bring about: This incident will surely bring on a crisis. to introduce; cause to appear: Bring on the clowns. 17. bring out, to expose; reveal. to make noticeable or conspicuous in a contrast. to publish, as a book or play. to introduce officially into society: to bring out a debutante. 18. bring to, to bring back to consciousness; revive. Nautical. to head (a vessel) close to or into the wind so as to halt. 19. bring up, to care for during childhood; rear. to introduce or mention for attention, discussion, action, or consideration. to vomit. to stop or cause to stop quickly: to bring up a car at the curb. Nautical. (of a vessel) to cause to halt, as by lowering an anchor or running aground; fetch up.

charged

verb (used with object), charged, charging. 1. to impose or ask as a price or fee: That store charges $25 for leather gloves. 2. to impose on or ask of (someone) a price or fee: He didn't charge me for it. 3. to defer payment for (a purchase) until a bill is rendered by the creditor: The store let me charge the coat. 4. to hold liable for payment; enter a debit against. 5. to attack by rushing violently against: The cavalry charged the enemy. 6. to accuse formally or explicitly (usually followed by with): They charged him with theft. 7. to impute; ascribe the responsibility for: He charged the accident to his own carelessness. 8. to instruct authoritatively, as a judge does a jury. 9. to lay a command or injunction upon: He charged his secretary with the management of his correspondence. 10. to fill or furnish (a thing) with the quantity, as of powder or fuel, that it is fitted to receive: to charge a musket. 11. to supply with a quantity of electric charge or electrical energy: to charge a storage battery. 12. to change the net amount of positive or negative electric charge of (a particle, body, or system). 13. to suffuse, as with emotion: The air was charged with excitement. 14. to fill (air, water, etc.) with other matter in a state of diffusion or solution: The air was charged with pollen. 15. Metallurgy. to load (materials) into a furnace, converter, etc. 16. to load or burden (the mind, heart, etc.): His mind was charged with weighty matters. 17. to put a load or burden on or in. 18. to record the loan of, as books or other materials from a library (often followed by out): The librarian will charge those books at the front desk. 19. to borrow, as books or other materials from a library (often followed by out): How many magazines may I charge at one time? 20. Heraldry. to place charges on (an escutcheon). Expand verb (used without object), charged, charging. 21. to make an onset; rush, as to an attack. 22. to place the price of a thing to one's debit. 23. to require payment: to charge for a service. 24. to make a debit, as in an account. 25. (of dogs) to lie down at command. noun 26. expense or cost: improvements made at a tenant's own charge. 27. a fee or price charged: a charge of three dollars for admission. 28. a pecuniary burden, encumbrance, tax, or lien; cost; expense; liability to pay: After his death there were many charges on his estate. 29. an entry in an account of something due. 30. an impetuous onset or attack, as of soldiers. 31. a signal by bugle, drum, etc., for a military charge. 32. a duty or responsibility laid upon or entrusted to one. 33. care, custody, or superintendence: The child was placed in her nurse's charge. 34. anything or anybody committed to one's care or management: The nurse was careful to let no harm come to her charge. 35. Ecclesiastical. a parish or congregation committed to the spiritual care of a pastor. 36. a command or injunction; exhortation. 37. an accusation: He was arrested on a charge of theft. 38. Law. an address by a judge to a jury at the close of a trial, instructing it as to the legal points, the weight of evidence, etc., affecting the verdict in the case. 39. the quantity of anything that an apparatus is fitted to hold, or holds, at one time: a charge of coal for a furnace. 40. a quantity of explosive to be set off at one time. 41. Electricity. electric charge. the process of charging a storage battery. 42. Slang. a thrill; kick. 43. Rocketry. grains of a solid propellant, usually including an inhibitor. 44. a load or burden. 45. Heraldry. any distinctive mark upon an escutcheon, as an ordinary or device, not considered as belonging to the field; bearing. Expand Verb phrases 46. charge off, to write off as an expense or loss. to attribute to: I charged off the blunder to inexperience. 47. charge up, Informal. to agitate, stimulate, or excite: a fiery speaker who can charge up an audience. to put or be under the influence of narcotic drugs. Idioms 48. in charge, in command; having supervisory power. British. under arrest; in or into the custody of the police. 49. in charge of, having the care or supervision of: She is in charge of two libraries. Also, in the charge of. under the care or supervision of: The books are in the charge of the accounting office.

chided

verb (used with object), chided or chid [chid] chided or chid or chidden [chid-n] chiding. 1. to express disapproval of; scold; reproach: The principal chided the children for their thoughtless pranks. 2. to harass, nag, impel, or the like by chiding: She chided him into apologizing. verb (used without object), chided or chid [chid] chided or chid or chidden [chid-n] , chiding. 3. to scold or reproach; find fault.

cited

verb (used with object), cited, citing. 1. to quote (a passage, book, author, etc.), especially as an authority: He cited the Constitution in his defense. 2. to mention in support, proof, or confirmation; refer to as an example: He cited many instances of abuse of power. 3. to summon officially or authoritatively to appear in court. 4. to call to mind; recall: citing my gratitude to him. 5. Military. to mention (a soldier, unit, etc.) in orders, as for gallantry. 6. to commend, as for outstanding service, hard work, or devotion to duty. 7. to summon or call; rouse to action.

conceeded

verb (used with object), conceded, conceding. 1. to acknowledge as true, just, or proper; admit: He finally conceded that she was right. 2. to acknowledge (an opponent's victory, score, etc.) before it is officially established: to concede an election before all the votes are counted. 3. to grant as a right or privilege; yield: to concede a longer vacation for all employees. verb (used without object), conceded, conceding. 4. to make concession; yield to pressure or circumstances; admit defeat: She was so persistent that I conceded at last. My favorite candidate conceded before the polls were even closed!

concluded

verb (used with object), concluded, concluding. 1. to bring to an end; finish; terminate: to conclude a speech with a quotation from the Bible. 2. to say in conclusion: At the end of the speech he concluded that we had been a fine audience. 3. to bring to a decision or settlement; settle or arrange finally: to conclude a treaty. 4. to determine by reasoning; deduce; infer: They studied the document and concluded that the author must have been an eyewitness. 5. to decide, determine, or resolve: He concluded that he would go no matter what the weather. 6. Obsolete. to shut up or enclose. to restrict or confine. verb (used without object), concluded, concluding. 7. to come to an end; finish: The meeting concluded at ten o'clock. 8. to arrive at an opinion or judgment; come to a decision; decide: The jury concluded to set the accused free.

decided

verb (used with object), decided, deciding. 1. to solve or conclude (a question, controversy, or struggle) by giving victory to one side: The judge decided the case in favor of the plaintiff. 2. to determine or settle (something in dispute or doubt): to decide an argument. 3. to bring (a person) to a decision; persuade or convince: The new evidence decided him. verb (used without object), decided, deciding. 4. to settle something in dispute or doubt: The judge decided in favor of the plaintiff. 5. to make a judgment or determine a preference; come to a conclusion.

declared

verb (used with object), declared, declaring. 1. to make known or state clearly, especially in explicit or formal terms: to declare one's position in a controversy. 2. to announce officially; proclaim: to declare a state of emergency; to declare a winner. 3. to state emphatically: He declared that the allegation was a lie. 4. to manifest; reveal; show: Her attendance at the rally declared her political allegiance. 5. to make due statement of, especially goods for duty or income for taxation. 6. to make (a dividend) payable. 7. Bridge. to bid (a trump suit or no-trump). verb (used without object), declared, declaring. 8. to make a declaration. 9. to proclaim oneself (usually followed by for or against): He declared against the proposal. 10. Cricket. (of a team) to surrender a turn at bat in an innings before ten players are put out.

denied

verb (used with object), denied, denying. 1. to state that (something declared or believed to be true) is not true: to deny an accusation. 2. to refuse to agree or accede to: to deny a petition. 3. to withhold the possession, use, or enjoyment of: to deny access to secret information. 4. to withhold something from, or refuse to grant a request of: to deny a beggar. 5. to refuse to recognize or acknowledge; disown; disavow; repudiate: to deny one's gods. 6. to withhold (someone) from accessibility to a visitor: The secretary denied his employer to all those without appointments. 7. Obsolete. to refuse to take or accept. Idioms 8. deny oneself, to refrain from satisfying one's desires or needs; practice self-denial.

denounced

verb (used with object), denounced, denouncing. 1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt. 2. to make a formal accusation against, as to the police or in a court. 3. to give formal notice of the termination or denial of (a treaty, pact, agreement, or the like). 4. Archaic. to announce or proclaim, especially as something evil or calamitous. 5. Obsolete. to portend.

described

verb (used with object), described, describing. 1. to tell or depict in written or spoken words; give an account of: He described the accident very carefully. 2. to pronounce, as by a designating term, phrase, or the like; label: There are few people who may be described as geniuses. 3. to indicate; be a sign of; denote: Conceit, in many cases, describes a state of serious emotional insecurity. 4. to represent or delineate by a picture or figure. 5. Geometry. to draw or trace the outline of: to describe an arc.

dictated

verb (used with object), dictated, dictating. 1. to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record: to dictate some letters to a secretary. 2. to prescribe or lay down authoritatively or peremptorily; command unconditionally: to dictate peace terms to a conquered enemy. verb (used without object), dictated, dictating. 3. to say or read aloud something to be written down by a person or recorded by a machine. 4. to give orders. noun 5. an authoritative order or command. 6. a guiding or governing principle, requirement, etc.: to follow the dictates of one's conscience.

disclosed

verb (used with object), disclosed, disclosing. 1. to make known; reveal or uncover: to disclose a secret. 2. to cause to appear; allow to be seen; lay open to view: In spring the violets disclose their fragrant petals. 3. Obsolete. to open up; unfold. noun 4. Obsolete, disclosure.

divulged

verb (used with object), divulged, divulging. 1. to disclose or reveal (something private, secret, or previously unknown)

emphasized

verb (used with object), emphasized, emphasizing. 1. to give emphasis to; lay stress upon; stress: to emphasize a point; to emphasize the eyes with mascara.

enunciated

verb (used with object), enunciated, enunciating. 1. to utter or pronounce (words, sentences, etc.), especially in an articulate or a particular manner: He enunciates his words distinctly. 2. to state or declare definitely, as a theory. 3. to announce or proclaim: to enunciate one's intentions. verb (used without object), enunciated, enunciating. 4. to pronounce words, especially in an articulate or a particular manner.

estimated

verb (used with object), estimated, estimating. 1. to form an approximate judgment or opinion regarding the worth, amount, size, weight, etc., of; calculate approximately: to estimate the cost of a college education. 2. to form an opinion of; judge. verb (used without object), estimated, estimating. 3. to make an estimate. noun 4. an approximate judgment or calculation, as of the value, amount, time, size, or weight of something. 5. a judgment or opinion, as of the qualities of a person or thing. 6. a statement of the approximate charge for work to be done, submitted by a person or business firm ready to undertake the work.

exposed

verb (used with object), exposed, exposing. 1. to lay open to danger, attack, harm, etc.: to expose soldiers to gunfire; to expose one's character to attack. 2. to lay open to something specified: to expose oneself to the influence of bad companions. 3. to uncover or bare to the air, cold, etc.: to expose one's head to the rain. 4. to present to view; exhibit; display: The storekeeper exposed his wares. 5. to make known, disclose, or reveal (intentions, secrets, etc.). 6. to reveal or unmask (a crime, fraud, impostor, etc.): to expose a swindler. 7. to hold up to public reprehension or ridicule (fault, folly, a foolish act or person, etc.). 8. to desert in an unsheltered or open place; abandon, as a child. 9. to subject, as to the action of something: to expose a photographic plate to light. Expand Idioms 10. expose oneself, to exhibit one's body, especially one's genitals, publicly in an immodest or exhibitionistic manner.

foretold

verb (used with object), foretold, foretelling. 1. to tell of beforehand; predict; prophesy.

hold

verb (used with object), held; held or (Archaic) holden; holding. 1. to have or keep in the hand; keep fast; grasp: She held the purse in her right hand. He held the child's hand in his. 2. to set aside; reserve or retain: to hold merchandise until called for; to hold a reservation. 3. to bear, sustain, or support, as with the hands or arms, or by any other means. 4. to keep in a specified state, relation, etc.: The preacher held them spellbound. 5. to detain: The police held him at the station house. 6. to engage in; preside over; carry on: to hold a meeting. 7. to keep back from action; hinder; restrain: Fear held him from acting. 8. to have the ownership or use of; keep as one's own; occupy: to hold political office. 9. to contain or be capable of containing: This bottle holds a quart. 10. to bind or make accountable to an obligation: We will hold you to your promise to pay back the money. 11. to have or keep in the mind; think or believe: We hold this belief. 12. to regard or consider: to hold a person responsible. 13. to decide legally. 14. to consider of a certain value; rate: We held her best of all the applicants. 15. to keep forcibly, as against an adversary: Enemy forces held the hill. 16. to point, aim, or direct: He held a gun on the prisoner. The firefighter held a hose on the blaze. 17. Music. to sustain (a note, chord, or rest). 18. to omit from the usual order or combination: Give me a burger well-done—hold the pickle. Expand verb (used without object), held; held or (Archaic) holden; holding. 19. to remain or continue in a specified state, relation, etc.: Hold still while I take your picture. 20. to remain fast; adhere; cling: Will this button hold? 21. to keep or maintain a grasp on something. 22. to maintain one's position against opposition; continue in resistance. 23. to agree or side (usually followed by with): to hold with new methods. 24. to hold property by some tenure; derive title (usually followed by by, from, in, or of). 25. to remain attached, faithful, or steadfast (usually followed by to): to hold to one's purpose. 26. to remain valid; be in force: The rule does not hold. 27. to refrain or forbear (usually used imperatively). Expand noun 28. an act of holding fast by a grasp of the hand or by some other physical means; grasp; grip: Take hold. Do you have a hold on the rope? 29. something to hold a thing by, as a handle; something to grasp, especially for support. 30. something that holds fast or supports something else. 31. an order reserving something: to put a hold on a library book. 32. Finance. a security purchased or recommended for long-term growth. 33. a controlling force or dominating influence: to have a hold on a person. 34. Wrestling. a method of seizing an opponent and keeping him in control: a toe hold. 35. Music. fermata. 36. a pause or delay, as in a continuing series: a hold in the movements of a dance. 37. a prison or prison cell. 38. a receptacle for something: a basket used as a hold for letters. 39. Rocketry. a halt in the prelaunch countdown, either planned or unexpectedly called, to allow correction of one or more faults in the rocket or missile. 40. a fortified place; stronghold. 41. (on telephones with two or more lines) a feature that enables a person to maintain a connection on one line while answering another line. Expand Verb phrases 42. hold back, to restrain or check: Police held back the crowd. to retain possession of; keep back: He held back ten dollars. to refrain from revealing; withhold: to hold back information. to refrain from participating or engaging in some activity: He held back from joining in the singing because he felt depressed. Photography, dodge (def 2). 43. hold down, to restrain; check: Hold down that noise! to continue to hold and manage well: She held down that job for years. 44. hold forth, to extend or offer; propose. to talk at great length; harangue: When we left, he was still holding forth on World War II. 45. hold in, to restrain; check; curb. to contain oneself; exercise restraint: He was raging inside, but held himself in for fear of saying something he would regret. 46. hold off, to keep at a distance; resist; repel. to postpone action; defer: If you hold off applying for a passport, you may not get one in time. 47. hold on, to keep a firm grip on. to keep going; continue. to maintain, as one's opinion or position. to stop; halt (usually used imperatively): Hold on now! That isn't what I meant at all. to keep a telephone connection open by not hanging up the receiver: The operator asked us to hold on while the number we'd dialed was being checked. 48. hold out, to present; offer. to stretch forth; extend: Hold out your hand. to continue to exist; last: Will the food hold out? to refuse to yield or submit: The defenders held out for weeks. to withhold something expected or due: He was suspected of holding out information important to the case. 49. hold over, to keep for future consideration or action; postpone. to remain in possession or in office beyond the regular term. to remain beyond the arranged period: The movie was held over for a week. Music. to prolong (a tone) from one measure to the next. 50. hold up, to offer; give: She held up his father as an example to follow. to present to notice; expose: to hold someone up to ridicule. to hinder; delay: The plane's departure was held up because of the storm. to stop by force in order to rob. to support; uphold: to hold up farm prices. to stop; halt: They held up at the gate. to maintain one's position or condition; endure: They held up through all their troubles. 51. hold with, to be in agreement with; concur with: I don't hold with his pessimistic views. to approve of; condone: They won't hold with such a travesty of justice. Expand Idioms 52. get hold of, to get a hold on: Get hold of the railing. to communicate with, especially by telephone: If she's not at home, try to get hold of her at the office. 53. hold one's own. own (def 11). 54. hold one's peace. peace (def 14). 55. hold one's tongue. tongue (def 33). 56. hold water. water (def 36). 57. no holds barred, without limits, rules, or restraints. 58. on hold, in or into a state of temporary interruption or suspension: The project will be put on hold until funds become available. Telecommunications. in or into a state of temporary interruption in a telephone connection: I'm putting you on hold to answer another call. Compare call waiting.

implied

verb (used with object), implied, implying. 1. to indicate or suggest without being explicitly stated: His words implied a lack of faith. 2. (of words) to signify or mean. 3. to involve as a necessary circumstance: Speech implies a speaker. 4. Obsolete. to enfold.

implored

verb (used with object), implored, imploring. 1. to beg urgently or piteously, as for aid or mercy; beseech; entreat: They implored him to go. 2. to beg urgently or piteously for (aid, mercy, pardon, etc.): implore forgiveness. verb (used without object), implored, imploring. 3. to make urgent or piteous supplication.

drawled

verb (used with object), verb (used without object) 1. to say or speak in a slow manner, usually prolonging the vowels. noun 2. an act or utterance of a person who drawls.

assented

verb (used without object) 1. to agree or concur; subscribe to (often followed by to): to assent to a statement. 2. to give in; yield; concede: Assenting to his demands, I did as I was told. noun 3. agreement, as to a proposal; concurrence. 4. acquiescence; compliance.

condescended

verb (used without object) 1. to behave as if one is conscious of descending from a superior position, rank, or dignity. 2. to stoop or deign to do something: He would not condescend to misrepresent the facts. 3. to put aside one's dignity or superiority voluntarily and assume equality with one regarded as inferior: He condescended to their intellectual level in order to be understood. 4. Obsolete. to yield. to assent.

cracked

verb (used without object) 1. to break without complete separation of parts; become fissured: The plate cracked when I dropped it, but it was still usable. 2. to break with a sudden, sharp sound: The branch cracked under the weight of the snow. 3. to make a sudden, sharp sound in or as if in breaking; snap: The whip cracked. 4. (of the voice) to break abruptly and discordantly, especially into an upper register, as because of weariness or emotion. 5. to fail; give way: His confidence cracked under the strain. 6. to succumb or break down, especially under severe psychological pressure, torture, or the like: They questioned him steadily for 24 hours before he finally cracked. 7. Chemistry. to decompose as a result of being subjected to heat. 8. Chiefly South Midland and Southern U.S. to brag; boast. 9. Chiefly Scot. to chat; gossip. Expand verb (used with object) 10. to cause to make a sudden sharp sound: The driver cracked the whip. 11. to break without complete separation of parts; break into fissures. 12. to break with a sudden, sharp sound: to crack walnuts. 13. to strike and thereby make a sharp noise: The boxer cracked his opponent on the jaw. 14. to induce or cause to be stricken with sorrow or emotion; affect deeply. 15. to utter or tell: to crack jokes. 16. to cause to make a cracking sound: to crack one's knuckles. 17. to damage, weaken, etc.: The new evidence against him cracked his composure. 18. to make mentally unsound. 19. to make (the voice) harsh or unmanageable. 20. to solve; decipher: to crack a murder case. 21. Informal. to break into (a safe, vault, etc.). 22. Chemistry. to subject to the process of cracking, as in the distillation of petroleum. 23. Informal. to open and drink (a bottle of wine, liquor, beer, etc.). Expand noun 24. a break without complete separation of parts; fissure. 25. a slight opening, as between boards in a floor or wall, or between a door and its doorpost. 26. a sudden, sharp noise, as of something breaking. 27. the snap of or as of a whip. 28. a resounding blow: He received a terrific crack on the head when the branch fell. 29. Informal. a witty or cutting remark; wisecrack. 30. a break or change in the flow or tone of the voice. 31. Informal. opportunity; chance; try: Give him first crack at the new job. 32. a flaw or defect. 33. Also called rock. Slang. pellet-size pieces of highly purified cocaine, prepared with other ingredients for smoking, and known to be especially potent and addicting. 34. Masonry. check1(def 41). 35. a mental defect or deficiency. 36. a shot, as with a rifle: At the first crack, the deer fell. 37. a moment; instant: He was on his feet again in a crack. 38. Slang. a burglary, especially an instance of housebreaking. 39. Chiefly British. a person or thing that excels in some respect. 40. Slang: Vulgar. the vulva. 41. Chiefly Scot. conversation; chat. 42. British Dialect. boasting; braggadocio. 43. Archaic. a burglar. Expand adjective 44. first-rate; excellent: a crack shot. adverb 45. with a cracking sound. Verb phrases 46. crack down, to take severe or stern measures, especially in enforcing obedience to laws or regulations: The police are starting to crack down on local drug dealers. 47. crack off, to cause (a piece of hot glass) to fall from a blowpipe or punty. 48. crack on, Nautical. (of a sailing vessel) to sail in high winds under sails that would normally be furled. (of a power vessel) to advance at full speed in heavy weather. 49. crack up, Informal. to suffer a mental or emotional breakdown. to crash, as in an automobile or airplane: He skidded into the telephone pole and cracked up. to wreck an automobile, airplane, or other vehicle. to laugh or to cause to laugh unrestrainedly: That story about the revolving door really cracked me up. Ed cracked up, too, when he heard it. Idioms 50. crack a book, Informal. to open a book in order to study or read: He hardly ever cracked a book. 51. crack a smile, Informal. to smile. 52. crack wise, Slang. to wisecrack: We tried to be serious, but he was always cracking wise. 53. fall through the cracks, to be overlooked, missed, or neglected: In any inspection process some defective materials will fall through the cracks. Also, slip between the cracks. 54. get cracking, Informal. to begin moving or working; start: Let's get cracking on these dirty dishes! to work or move more quickly.

exclaimed

verb (used without object) 1. to cry out or speak suddenly and vehemently, as in surprise, strong emotion, or protest. verb (used with object) 2. to cry out; say loudly or vehemently.

bellowed

verb (used without object) 1. to emit a hollow, loud, animal cry, as a bull or cow. 2. to roar; bawl: bellowing with rage. verb (used with object) 3. to utter in a loud deep voice: He bellowed his command across the room. noun 4. an act or sound of bellowing.

complained

verb (used without object) 1. to express dissatisfaction, pain, uneasiness, censure, resentment, or grief; find fault: He complained constantly about the noise in the corridor. 2. to tell of one's pains, ailments, etc.: to complain of a backache. 3. to make a formal accusation: If you think you've been swindled, complain to the police

faltered

verb (used without object) 1. to hesitate or waver in action, purpose, intent, etc.; give way: Her courage did not falter at the prospect of hardship. 2. to speak hesitatingly or brokenly. 3. to move unsteadily; stumble. verb (used with object) 4. to utter hesitatingly or brokenly: to falter an apology. noun 5. the act of faltering; an unsteadiness of gait, voice, action, etc. 6. a faltering sound.

consented

verb (used without object) 1. to permit, approve, or agree; comply or yield (often followed by to or an infinitive): He consented to the proposal. We asked her permission, and she consented. 2. Archaic. to agree in sentiment, opinion, etc.; be in harmony. noun 3. permission, approval, or agreement; compliance; acquiescence: He gave his consent to the marriage. 4. agreement in sentiment, opinion, a course of action, etc.: By common consent he was appointed official delegate. 5. Archaic. accord; concord; harmony.

boasted

verb (used without object) 1. to speak with exaggeration and excessive pride, especially about oneself. 2. to speak with pride (often followed by of): He boasted of his family's wealth. verb (used with object) 3. to speak of with excessive pride or vanity: He boasts himself a genius. 4. to be proud in the possession of: The town boasts a new school. noun 5. a thing boasted of; a cause for pride: Talent is his boast. It is her boast that she has never betrayed a friend. 6. exaggerated or objectionable speech; bragging: empty boasts and threats.

growled

verb (used without object) 1. to utter a deep guttural sound of anger or hostility: The dog growled at the mail carrier. 2. to murmur or complain angrily; grumble. 3. to rumble: The thunder growled. 4. Jazz. to use flutter-tonguing in playing a wind instrument. verb (used with object) 5. to express by growling. noun 6. the act or sound of growling. 7. Jazz. the technique of flutter-tonguing.

howled

verb (used without object) 1. to utter a loud, prolonged, mournful cry, as that of a dog or wolf. 2. to utter a similar cry in distress, pain, rage, etc.; wail. 3. to make a sound like an animal howling: The wind howls through the trees. 4. Informal. to go on a spree; enjoy oneself without restraint. verb (used with object) 5. to utter with howls: to howl the bad news. 6. to drive or force by howls (often followed by down): to howl down the opposition. noun 7. the cry of a dog, wolf, etc. 8. a cry or wail, as of pain, rage, or protest. 9. a sound like wailing: the howl of the wind. 10. a loud, scornful laugh or yell. 11. something that causes a laugh or a scornful yell, as a joke or funny or embarrassing situation.

grunted

verb (used without object) 1. to utter the deep, guttural sound characteristic of a hog. 2. to utter a similar sound. 3. to grumble, as in discontent. verb (used with object) 4. to express with a grunt. noun 5. a sound of grunting. 6. New England Cookery. a dessert, typically of cherries, peaches, or apples sweetened and spiced, and topped with biscuit dough. 7. any food fish of the family Pomadasyidae (Haemulidae), found chiefly in tropical and subtropical seas, that emits grunting sounds. 8. Slang. a soldier, especially an infantryman. 9. Slang. a common or unskilled worker; laborer.

answered

verb (used without object) 9. to speak or write in response; make answer; reply. 10. to respond by an act or motion: He answered with a nod. The champion answered with a right to the jaw. 11. to act or suffer in consequence of (usually followed by for). 12. to be or declare oneself responsible or accountable (usually followed by for): I will answer for his safety. 13. to be satisfactory or serve (usually followed by for): His cane answered for a baseball bat. 14. to conform; correspond (usually followed by to): The prisoner answered to the description issued by the police. verb (used with object) 15. to speak or write in response to; reply to: to answer a person; to answer a question. 16. to act or move in response to: Answer the doorbell. We answered their goal with two quick goals of our own. 17. to solve or present a solution of. 18. to serve or fulfill: This will answer the purpose. 19. to discharge (a responsibility, claim, debt, etc.). 20. to conform or correspond to; be similar or equivalent to: This dog answers your description. 21. to atone for; make amends for. 22. to reply or respond favorably to: I would like to answer your request but am unable to do so. Expand Verb phrases 23. answer back, to reply impertinently or rudely: Well-behaved children do not answer back when scolded. Idioms 24. answer the helm, Nautical. (of a vessel) to maneuver or remain steady according to the position of the rudder.

acquiesced

verb (used without object), acquiesced, acquiescing. 1. to assent tacitly; submit or comply silently or without protest; agree; consent: to acquiesce halfheartedly in a business plan.

argued

verb (used without object), argued, arguing. 1. to present reasons for or against a thing: He argued in favor of capital punishment. 2. to contend in oral disagreement; dispute: The senator argued with the president about the new tax bill. verb (used with object), argued, arguing. 3. to state the reasons for or against: The lawyers argued the case. 4. to maintain in reasoning: to argue that the news report must be wrong. 5. to persuade, drive, etc., by reasoning: to argue someone out of a plan. 6. to show; prove; imply; indicate: His clothes argue poverty.

babbled

verb (used without object), babbled, babbling. 1. to utter sounds or words imperfectly, indistinctly, or without meaning. 2. to talk idly, irrationally, excessively, or foolishly; chatter or prattle. 3. to make a continuous, murmuring sound. verb (used with object), babbled, babbling. 4. to utter in an incoherent, foolish, or meaningless fashion. 5. to reveal foolishly or thoughtlessly: to babble a secret. noun 6. inarticulate or imperfect speech. 7. foolish, meaningless, or incoherent speech; prattle. 8. a murmuring sound or a confusion of sounds. 9. babbling (def 2). 10. Telecommunications. a confused mixture of extraneous sounds in a circuit, resulting from cross talk from other channels. Compare cross talk (def 1).

began

verb (used without object), began, begun, beginning. 1. to proceed to perform the first or earliest part of some action; commence; start: The story begins with their marriage. 2. to come into existence; arise; originate: The custom began during the Civil War. verb (used with object), began, begun, beginning. 3. to proceed to perform the first or earliest part of (some action): Begin the job tomorrow. 4. to originate; be the originator of: civic leaders who began the reform movement. 5. to succeed to the slightest extent in (followed by an infinitive): The money won't even begin to cover expenses.

bragged

verb (used without object), bragged, bragging. 1. to use boastful language; boast: He bragged endlessly about his high score. verb (used with object), bragged, bragging. 2. to boast of: He bragged that he had won. noun 3. a boast or vaunt. 4. a thing to boast of. 5. a boaster. 6. an old English card game similar to poker. adjective 7. Archaic. unusually fine; first-rate.

confided

verb (used without object), confided, confiding. 1. to impart secrets trustfully; discuss private matters or problems (usually followed by in): She confides in no one but her husband. 2. to have full trust; have faith: They confided in their own ability. verb (used with object), confided, confiding. 3. to tell in assurance of secrecy: He confided all his plans to her. 4. to entrust; commit to the charge or knowledge of another: She confided her jewelry to her sister.

continued

verb (used without object), continued, continuing. 1. to go on after suspension or interruption: The program continued after an intermission. 2. to go on or keep on, as in some course or action; extend: The road continues for three miles. 3. to last or endure: The strike continued for two months. 4. to remain in a particular state or capacity: The general agreed to continue in command of the army. 5. to remain in a place; abide; stay: Let us continue in this house forever. verb (used with object), continued, continuing. 6. to go on with or persist in: to continue an action. 7. to carry on from the point of suspension or interruption: He continued the concert after the latecomers were seated. 8. to extend from one point to another in space; prolong. 9. to say in continuation. 10. to cause to last or endure; maintain or retain, as in a position. 11. to carry over, postpone, or adjourn; keep pending, as a legal proceeding.

cried

verb (used without object), cried, crying. 1. to utter inarticulate sounds, especially of lamentation, grief, or suffering, usually with tears. 2. to weep; shed tears, with or without sound. 3. to call loudly; shout; yell (sometimes followed by out). 4. to demand resolution or strongly indicate a particular disposition: The rise in crime cried out for greater police protection. 5. to give forth vocal sounds or characteristic calls, as animals; yelp; bark. 6. (of a hound or pack) to bay continuously and excitedly in following a scent. 7. (of tin) to make a noise, when bent, like the crumpling of paper. verb (used with object), cried, crying. 8. to utter or pronounce loudly; call out. 9. to announce publicly as for sale; advertise: to cry one's wares. 10. to beg or plead for; implore: to cry mercy. 11. to bring (oneself) to a specified state by weeping: The infant cried itself to sleep. noun, plural cries. 12. the act or sound of crying; any loud utterance or exclamation; a shout, scream, or wail. 13. clamor; outcry. 14. a fit of weeping: to have a good cry. 15. the utterance or call of an animal. 16. a political or party slogan. 17. battle cry. 18. an oral proclamation or announcement. 19. a call of wares for sale, services available, etc., as by a street vendor. 20. public report. 21. an opinion generally expressed. 22. an entreaty; appeal. 23. Fox Hunting. a pack of hounds. a continuous baying of a hound or a pack in following a scent. Expand Verb phrases 24. cry down, to disparage; belittle: Those people cry down everyone who differs from them. 25. cry off, to break a promise, agreement, etc.: We made arrangements to purchase a house, but the owner cried off at the last minute. 26. cry up, to praise; extol: to cry up one's profession. Idioms 27. a far cry, quite some distance; a long way. only remotely related; very different: This treatment is a far cry from that which we received before. 28. cry havoc. havoc (def 4). 29. cry one's eyes /heart out, to cry excessively or inconsolably: The little girl cried her eyes out when her cat died. 30. cry over spilled /spilt milk. milk (def 10). 31. in full cry, in hot pursuit: The pack followed in full cry.

demurred

verb (used without object), demurred, demurring. 1. to make objection, especially on the grounds of scruples; take exception; object: They wanted to make him the treasurer, but he demurred. 2. Law. to interpose a demurrer. 3. Archaic. to linger; hesitate. noun 4. the act of making objection. 5. an objection raised. 6. hesitation. 7. Law. Obsolete. a demurrer.

droned

verb (used without object), droned, droning. 1. to make a dull, continued, low, monotonous sound; hum; buzz. 2. to speak in a monotonous tone. 3. to proceed in a dull, monotonous manner (usually followed by on): The meeting droned on for hours. verb (used with object), droned, droning. 4. to say in a dull, monotonous tone. noun 5. Music. a continuous low tone produced by the bass pipes or bass strings of musical instruments. the pipes (especially of the bagpipe) or strings producing this tone. a bagpipe equipped with such pipes. 6. a monotonous low tone; humming or buzzing sound. 7. a person who speaks in a monotonous tone.

giggled

verb (used without object), giggled, giggling. 1. to laugh in a silly, often high-pitched way, especially with short, repeated gasps and titters, as from juvenile or ill-concealed amusement or nervous embarrassment. noun 2. a silly, spasmodic laugh; titter. 3. Slang. an amusing experience, incident, etc.: Going to a silly movie was always a giggle.

grinned

verb (used without object), grinned, grinning. 1. to smile broadly, especially as an indication of pleasure, amusement, or the like. 2. to draw back the lips so as to show the teeth, as a snarling dog or a person in pain. 3. to show or be exposed through an opening, crevice, etc. verb (used with object), grinned, grinning. 4. to express or produce by grinning: The little boy grinned his approval of the gift. noun 5. a broad smile. 6. the act of producing a broad smile. 7. the act of withdrawing the lips and showing the teeth, as in anger or pain.

grumbled

verb (used without object), grumbled, grumbling. 1. to murmur or mutter in discontent; complain sullenly. 2. to utter low, indistinct sounds; growl. 3. to rumble: The thunder grumbled in the west. verb (used with object), grumbled, grumbling. 4. to express or utter with murmuring or complaining. noun 5. an expression of discontent; complaint; unhappy murmur; growl. 6. grumbles, a grumbling, discontented mood. 7. a rumble.

haggled

verb (used without object), haggled, haggling. 1. to bargain in a petty, quibbling, and often contentious manner: They spent hours haggling over the price of fish. 2. to wrangle, dispute, or cavil: The senators haggled interminably over the proposed bill. verb (used with object), haggled, haggling. 3. to mangle in cutting; hack. 4. to settle on by haggling. 5. Archaic. to harass with wrangling or haggling. noun 6. the act of haggling; wrangle or dispute over terms.

hesitated

verb (used without object), hesitated, hesitating. 1. to be reluctant or wait to act because of fear, indecision, or disinclination: She hesitated to take the job. 2. to have scruples or doubts; be unwilling: He hesitated to break the law. 3. to pause: I hesitated before reciting the next line. 4. to falter in speech; stammer: Embarrassment caused the speaker to hesitate.